He was born on Aug. 13, 1927, the only child of Joseph and Simone Dube Helie. He grew up in Brunswick and attended schools in Brunswick and Biddeford. On July 5, 1948, he married Georgette M. Michaud of Topsham.
In his teens and 20s, Irenee worked in his father’s bakery. He served in the U.S. Navy from 1946-1947, and then in the Reserves. After working for many years at the Norwago Diner, he reenlisted in the Navy and served for another 20 years. During his Naval career, he was deployed to Vietnam, Spain and Puerto Rico. He was also assigned to bases in Pennsylvania, Florida and Rhode Island.
Following his retirement from the military, Irenee and Georgette traveled throughout the country visiting many states including Alaska, North
Dakota and Texas.
Irenee is survived by Georgette, of Topsham, and several cousins, nieces, nephews, sister-inlaw Lucy Hodgdon of Yarmouth, brotherin law Thomas (Judy) Michaud of Topsham and brother-in-law David (Anita) Michaud of Topsham.
A funeral Mass will be held at St John’s Catholic Church on Friday, May 15 at 10 a.m., followed by burial at St. John’s Cemetery.
Arrangements are under the care of Desmond Funeral Homes, 34 Cushing St., Brunswick.
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