Yvon B. Cote

LEWISTON – Yvon B. Cote, 90, passed away in Lewiston on Jan. 18, 2025.

Born at home in Lewiston on Dec. 1, 1934, he was the son of Antoine Cote and Blanche Grenier. Yvon attended Holy Family grammar school and graduated from Lewiston High School. He was an athlete in school excelling in hockey and football.

Although he was the sole surviving son in the family, having lost his younger brother in 1952, he enlisted in the U.S. Army and served in Korea. Upon returning home from Korea, Yvon married Nancy Hartman and had six children.

Yvon joined the Lewiston police force in 1957 and served until 1973. One of his fondest memories was escorting Senator John F. Kennedy to a campaign rally in Lewiston, riding an LPD motorcycle alongside the convoy, on Nov. 6, 1960. Two days later Kennedy would be elected president, a source of pride for Yvon’s Catholic parents.

As a patrolman of that era, he walked the beat on lower Lisbon Street. He was no stranger to the rowdy happenings there and developed relationships with the business owners. Eventually, he went out on his own as a motorcycle and snowmobile salesman and mechanic, opening Yvon’s Track ‘N Trail in Greene.

Yvon was an accomplished motocross rider in New England Sports Committee (NESC) events and progressed to become an expert class rider. He was also well known as a promoter and track designer for NESC events at Lisbon Falls, Leeds Junction and Bull Run in Greene.

For many years, he enjoyed snowmobiling with friends who could match his competitive nature. He would challenge himself and others to long rides at full throttle until finally reaching Trails End in Eustis where they would stop to refuel and recount the day’s adventure.

In 2000, Yvon sustained a traumatic brain injury while testing a motorcycle. Although the injury was severe, with strength, determination and lots of help from family and friends, he was able to recover. With his recovery came a newfound enjoyment of life. The accomplishments of his children and grandchildren gave him pleasure. When he could no longer drive, he loved to go for car rides with his children and enjoyed stopping for an ice cream. If something pleased him, he would respond with “very good!”

Yvon leaves behind his children, Renee Cote (Peter), Gregory Cote (Jennifer), Mary Cote (Robert), Joanna Hayes, Caroline Cote (Janet), and Douglas Cote (Kimberly); as well as seven wonderful grandchildren, Chelsea, Madeline, Natalie, Holly, Faith, Lydia, and Luc Antoine; and a great-granddaughter, Quintana. He also leaves behind three caring sisters, with whom he was very close, Clemence Aquilino, Colette Cyr, and Colombe Loef.

He was predeceased by his parents; brother, Reginald, and sister, Constance Lambert.

The family wishes to thank his many caregivers, particularly the staff at Odd Fellows and Rebekahs Home and Marshwood Center who gave him excellent care and attention.

Condolences and fond memories may be shared with with family and friends at http://www.albert-burpee.com.

A private service will be held at a later date. Arrangements are under the care of Albert and Burpee Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 253 Pine St., Lewiston, 782-7201.