VAN BUREN, ME — The community is mourning the loss of Renée Sarah Lapointe, a 21‑year‑old University of Maine graduate and accomplished athlete from Van Buren, who died on January 17 in Old Town. Her family confirmed the news in an obituary published this week, citing her quiet struggles with mental health as part of her journey.
Born on December 28, 2004, in Caribou, Renée was the daughter of Michael and Christine Lapointe. From an early age, she excelled in athletics and academics, earning recognition across multiple fields. She was a standout in soccer, basketball, and tennis, receiving All‑Aroostook honors in soccer and tennis and a spot on the All‑State soccer team. Beyond sports, she was a dedicated dancer for more than 16 years at The Maine Dance Academy, training in pointe, tumbling, and performance. Her talent earned her titles including Little Miss Maine Potato Blossom, Pre‑Teen Miss Maine Potato Blossom, and Junior Miss Maine America.
Renée graduated from Van Buren Secondary School ranked in the top three of her class and served as Honor Society president. At just 17, she entered the University of Maine at Orono on a full scholarship, completing her degree a year early in the spring of 2025. Alongside her studies, she worked as a server at Texas Roadhouse and was a proud member of the Pi Phi sorority, where she was known for her kindness, loyalty, and dedication to her friends.
Her family and friends shared that Renée faced mental health challenges in recent years, struggles that were not always visible to the outside world. A GoFundMe page organized by family friend Tina Belanger has raised more than $13,000 to help cover funeral and burial costs and to establish a scholarship in Renée’s name. The scholarship will honor students who reflect her passion, resilience, and commitment to excellence.
A Mass of Christian burial is scheduled for 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday, January 27, at St. Bruno‑St. Remi Catholic Church in Van Buren, with arrangements handled by Lajoie Funeral Home. Renée is survived by her parents, her brother Colby Lapointe of Bangor and his wife Julia, her boyfriend Adolfo Cadillo of New Jersey, and extended family members who continue to celebrate her life and achievements.
Renée’s passing is a heartbreaking reminder of the importance of mental health awareness. Her legacy as a scholar, athlete, dancer, and compassionate friend will live on in the community she touched so deeply.
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