NORWAY — Donald Gouin left a legacy of passion for education and students when he passed away at the age of 85 on Jan. 13. 

He was known for his 63 years spent in education in Oxford Hills.

Gouin began as a teacher and coach at Paris High School, eventually becoming the athletic director. During that time he developed the department’s first K-12 physical education curriculum. 

He rounded out his education career as assistant principal at the Oxford Hills Comprehensive High School in Paris and Oxford Hills Middle School until 1986. Gouin was then elected to the SAD 17 board of directors and Oxford Hill Technical School board of directors, serving as the chair. 

Judy Green, a member of the SAD 17 board, remembered him Monday as “the kindest, gentlest, sweetest person.”

“I’ve known him the whole time I’ve been connected with the school, 35 years,” she said.

She recalled how Gouin drove her mother to church every week. “He did things for people outside of school. He was always upbeat and helpful.”

Gouin was vital to the creation of the comprehensive high school and its distinguished fields. He was passionate about creating a school which combined traditional vocational programs together seamlessly.  His wish was for every student was to be able to pursue an academic track individualized to suit their own strengths and goals, Green said. 

“He was supportive of all people being the best they can be. He wanted what was best for everyone,” she said.

The school district named its sports fields the Don Gouin Athletic Complex.

“He never wanted thanks, but I’m glad he got the recognition he deserved during his life,” Green said. “He just never stopped.”

Norway Town Manager David Holt,  who worked with Gouin many times over the years, said Gouin was extremely passionate and knowledgeable.

SAD 17 Superintendent Rick Colpitts said Gouin was the “quintessential gentleman.”

“Education was his life and passion, Colpitts said. “His commitment of over 63 years of service as an employee and school board member in the Oxford Hills region is unprecedented.”

According to Colpitts, Gouin was “humble yet assertive, bright yet quiet, funny and optimistic. You never knew what he would say next but knew that whatever he said was worth listening to.”

Gouin was surrounded by a large and loving family, including two sons, one daughter, three in-laws, seven grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.

“His family was very important to him,” Colpitts said. “He loved them dearly. He spoke of them often, and was proud of their contributions to the Oxford Hills region.”

“Everyone knew Don. I will miss him without a doubt,” Colpitts said. 

A memorial service will be held at 1 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 24, at the high school gymnasium on Main Street in Paris.