TUCSON, Ariz. – Paul W. Vanier, 71, passed away peacefully Nov. 3, 2009, at his home. He was born July 20, 1938, in Edmundston, New Brunswick, to Emile and Irene (McClusky) Vanier. He graduated from Madawaska High School, Class of 1956, as valedictorian. He went on to earn a degree in mechanical engineering from the University of Maine with a focus on pulp and paper technology. From there he served as a lieutenant in the U.S. Army and was stationed in Germany. Upon leaving the service, he settled into a career in the pulp and paper field. Although he was not one to seek and would often avoid recognition, he worked in the pulp and paper industry for 38 years, serving on many professional committees, including TAPPI and Pulp & Paper Foundation. He held various managerial positions at P.H. Glatfelter, Spring Grove, Pa., and Fraser Paper Inc., Madawaska. Paul was known for his integrity and his critical thinking. He was particularly skillful at solving difficult technical problems. He enjoyed the fact that his last office as research and development director faced customs at the International Bridge, where his late father served as deputy of customs. He was a devout Catholic and family man. It seemed to his family that no matter where he went, someone would know him and stop to have a chat. He is survived by his wife of 46 years, Elaine Lausier Vanier. They had four lovely children, Eileen Head and her husband, Craig, of Springville, Pa., Vincent Vanier and his wife, Connie, of Madawaska, Judy McDonagh and her husband, Andrew, of Mequon, Wis., and Sheila Gleason and her husband, Ryan, of Yarmouth. He was also blessed with nine grandchildren who looked forward to their reunion in Madawaska each summer. He is survived by brothers, Armand and John Vanier; and sisters, Corrine Keenan and Eva Harmon. He is also survived by many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by an infant brother; another brother, Eldon; and sister, Blanche “Sis.” A memorial service will be held 10 a.m. Saturday, May 22, at St. Thomas Aquinas Church, Madawaska. Family and friends may express their condolences to Paul’s family 9 a.m. until the time of service at the church. Interment will be held at the parish cemetery. In lieu of flowers, tax deductible donations may be made in Paul’s memory to the University of Maine Pulp and Paper Foundation, attention: Jack Healy, 217 Jenness Hall, Orono, ME 04469. For online condolences, please visit www.lajoiefuneralhome.com.
PAUL W. VANIER
