Obituary: Neil Michael Brochu
Neil Michael Brochu, 40, of Portland, Maine, dies; memorial held Oct. 15
NEVADA — Neil Michael Brochu, a 40‑year‑old Portland native, died on Sept. 25, 2026, after a life filled with work, family and community. The former chef, electrician, carpenter and property manager was survived by a daughter, several siblings and parents, and an extended network of friends and relatives.
Brochu was born July 19, 1986, in Portland. He grew up in southern Maine, attending schools in Saco and Falmouth, where he played high‑school football. After high school he enrolled in culinary school at the New England Culinary Institute (NECI), earning a diploma that led to culinary positions in Portland and Boston, Massachusetts.
While his career began in the kitchen, Brochu expanded into a variety of trades. “Never one to shy away from hard work or a new challenge,” a family member said, describing him as a “true jack‑of‑all‑trades.” He became a skilled carpenter, electrician, and general handyman, working on projects ranging from residential repairs to commercial renovations.
Brochu’s personal life centered around his daughter, Amelia “Mimi” Athearn Brochu, who was 12 when her father passed. The couple lived in Eugene, Oregon, where they shared a love of the outdoors, cooking, and simple daily routines. “Some of his happiest moments were found in the simplest routines. Drawing on his love of cooking, he delighted in preparing breakfast for Amelia each morning,” one family member recounted. The pair enjoyed drawing, painting, hiking and exploring the local landscape together.
Beyond the family home, Brochu had a passion for fitness and spent time working out at the gym. Music, movies, video games and a “collection of movie quotes” were also favorites. Friends remembered him as a humorist who could turn an ordinary conversation into a memorable one, and as someone who valued honest work and meaningful relationships over material wealth.
Family survivors include his daughter, Amelia; brothers Matt Brochu, Lex Goduti and Ian Goduti; parents Shannon Goduti and Dave Brochu; and stepfather Richard Goduti. He also leaves behind numerous nieces, nephews, extended family and friends who will honor his memory.
A memorial service will be held Thursday, Oct. 15, at 3 p.m. at the Conroy‑Tully Walker Funeral Home (300 Allen Ave., Portland). A celebration of life will continue at Bruno’s at 4 p.m. The funeral home’s website will provide a memorial page for condolences and to share memories. In lieu of flowers, a fund has been established for Brochu’s daughter. Donations can be made through the online portal at https://everloved.com/life-of/neil-brochu/.
Brochu’s passing has left a void in the community, but his legacy of hard work, humor and devotion to family will endure in the stories and memories of those who knew him.
