Obituary: John Gonneville
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**John Gonneville, 61, of Madawaska, Dies Suddenly at Home**
MADAWASKA – John Gonneville, a longtime resident of Madawaska and beloved husband, father, and community member, died suddenly on Sunday, Sept. 5, 2026, at his home. The 61‑year‑old, a native of Biddeford, Maine, left behind a wife, three daughters, and a partner who were deeply touched by his warmth, humor, and lifelong love of animals.
Gonneville was born in Biddeford on July 26, 1965, to Norman and Arlene Gonneville (née Gagne). He grew up on a dairy farm in Saco, where he spent his childhood milking cows, hauling hay, and caring for livestock—a routine that nurtured a lifelong affection for animals.
After graduating from Cheverus High School in 1983, Gonneville began his professional career with Eastern Security/Protection One, taking on various roles before relocating with his family to Madawaska in 2001. He spent several years working for St. John Valley Associates before returning to education, earning a teaching credential from the University of Maine at Fort Kent in 2010. His teaching career included positions with the Madawaska School Department and the Amana Middle and High School (AMHC) until a serious illness in 2013. Following recovery, Gonneville joined the Defense Finance Accounting Services (DFAS) in 2014, and later returned to the St. John Valley Associates/AMHC accounting department.
Beyond his professional life, Gonneville was a passionate sportsman. A lifelong fan of the Boston Celtics, New England Patriots, Boston Red Sox, and Boston Bruins, he often discussed team statistics with enthusiasm. He also enjoyed coaching his daughters’ youth sports teams, including little‑league baseball, softball, and basketball, fostering their love of the game.
“John was always the coach who would stay after practice to give extra pointers or share a laugh,” said one of his former students. “He had a way of making every kid feel seen.”
An avid outdoorsman, Gonneville loved the scenic backroads of the valley. He often took his four‑legged companion, a dog named George, on side‑by‑side rides in his truck, especially in the fall when the foliage painted the landscape in vibrant colors. The family’s weekends frequently included these memorable drives.
He was best known as a devoted husband to Janet Hebert Gonneville of 33 years. The pair shared a deep partnership that grounded Gonneville through his many career changes and health challenges. Their marriage was described by friends and neighbors as a steadfast example of love and support.
The Gonneville household also included three daughters—Leah, Hannah, and Abby—whom John adored. He frequently spoke with pride about their determination, “joie de vivre,” and adventurous spirits. Abby is presently partnered with Lauryn Dove.
“John’s pride in his daughters was immense,” recalled Janet. “He could not wait to share stories about their achievements and adventures. They were the joy of his life.”
Gonneville was preceded in death by his parents, Norman and Arlene Gonneville.
A funeral service to celebrate John’s life will be held on Friday, Sept. 11, at 10 a.m. at St. David Church in St. Agatha. The receiving line will open at 9 a.m., followed by a reception afterward. Funeral arrangements are being handled by Michaud Funeral Home in St. Agatha. Families and friends may send condolences online at .
John Gonneville’s sudden passing has left a profound void in his family, friends, and the wider community. His legacy of dedication—to family, work, and the outdoors—remains a source of inspiration for those who knew him.
