Joseph L.A. Cyr

AUBURN – Joseph Louis Alphee Cyr, 88, passed away peacefully on Sept. 28, 2026, at his home, surrounded by the loved ones that meant so much to him. In his final days, Joseph was showered with love, comfort, and care. His daughter-in-law, Judy Cyr, devoted this past year to caring for him, showing him the same respect, kindness, and compassion that she so freely gives to everyone in her life. Because of her, his final year and his final days were filled with dignity, love, and the comfort of being surrounded by family.

Joseph was a beloved son, brother, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend to many. Born in Canada, he was a true French-speaking Canuck who carried his heritage with him throughout his life.

He graduated from Lewiston High School in 1961 and, after becoming a naturalized American citizen, proudly served in the United States Army. Following his time in the military, Joseph traveled to Grover, Texas, where he worked on a cattle ranch. Although he already knew how to ride, life on a 4,000-head cattle ranch quickly taught him that he needed to learn how to rope as well. He embraced the challenge and became a true cowboy in every sense of the word.

Joseph returned home in 1962 and married, beginning a life centered around his family. Together, they raised four loving children who would become the heart of his life.

He worked for many years in the shoe industry, beginning as a hand sewer at Belgrade Shoe before continuing his career at Sabotage Moc and later Billings. In total, Joseph spent 29 years as a hand sewer. A man of many trades, he also worked as a farrier and a as a floor installer throughout the Lewiston, Auburn, and Rumford areas. He was hardworking, dependable, and never afraid to learn a new skill or lend a helping hand.

But above all of his many accomplishments, Joseph’s greatest joy was his family. His happiest moments were found around the table and surrounded by the people he loved. Holidays meant steak, mashed potatoes, and his famous cornbread. Christmas meant a new sweater – usually purchased with so much love and enthusiasm that it somehow ended up being three sizes too small. And birthdays and special occasions meant a card signed simply, “Love, Pépère.”

Joseph was a deeply devoted Catholic. His faith was an important part of who he was. He faithfully attended Mass, often sitting quietly in the back in his best suit, and carried his faith with him throughout his life. His devotion to God and his Catholic faith remained a constant source of strength and guidance.

Those who knew Joseph will remember the little things that made him unmistakably himself. They will remember seeing him driving down the road, easily spotted by the cowboy hat he wore so proudly. They will remember his stories, his traditions, his sense of humor, and the countless ways he showed his love without always needing to say it.

Joseph was truly one of a kind. We were blessed to have him in our lives, and although his absence will leave a space that cannot be filled, the memories he gave us will remain for generations to come.

Joseph is survived by his daughter, Tina Cyr (Tina Church) of Auburn; his sons, Tim Cyr (Judy Cyr), Tom Cyr (Darcey Cyr), and Tony Cyr (Wanda Berube) of Auburn; and his grandchildren, Amber Binnington (Jonathan Binnington), Megan Cyr (Floyd Goding), Samantha Fecteau (Gabriel Fecteau), Reese Cyr (Haley Leighton), and Josh Cyr (Stephanie Cyr).

He is also survived by his 13 great-grandchildren, Adyson, Calvin, Beckett, Timmothy, Cecelia, Noah, Benjamin, Ryker, Alana, Easton, Vivian, Avery, and Gracelynn, who were surely among his greatest joys.

Joseph is also survived by his sister, Andrina Leger of Arizona; his brothers, Rene (Flora) of Turner and Jude (Joan) of Auburn; and his sisters-in-law, Judy Cyr of Sabattus and Rachelle Cyr of Lewiston, as well as many extended family members and dear friends.

In addition to his parents, Joseph was predeceased by his sister and brother-in-law, Priscilla (Cyr) and Rene Gagne; his brothers, Normand, Robert “Moe,” and Aurele Cyr; and his brother-in-law, Edward Leger.

He will be deeply missed by the family he loved so dearly, but his memory will live on in the stories, traditions, lessons, and love he leaves behind.

The world lost a good man, but heaven gained a cowboy.

Online condolences and sharing of memories may be expressed at http://www.albert-burpee.com

Visitation will be held at Albert & Burpee Funeral Home on Monday, October 5, 2026, from 9-10:30 a.m., followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 11 a.m., at Sacred Heart Church, 8 Sacred Heart Place, Auburn. Committal prayers with military honors will follow in the Large Chapel of the Mausoleum at St. Peter’s Cemetery, Deer Road, Lewiston.

Arrangements are entrusted to Albert & Burpee Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 253 Pine Street, Lewiston, ME 04240, (207) 782-7201.