Fernand Chagnon

Fernand Chagnon, 90, passed away October 10, 2026, after nearly a year in hospice care. He was born in Coaticook, Quebec on September 14, 1936 to Roland and Juliette Chagnon.

Preceded in death by first wife Ruth (Yoder), daughter Melinda, parents, sisters Aline, Claudette, Micheline (Judy), and brother Renald.

He is survived by his loving wife Paula, daughter Michele Chagnon, granddaughter Angelina Contreras, and sister Jeanne (Ronald) Bozarth, as well as many nieces and nephews.

After graduation from Lawrence High School in Fairfield, Maine, Fernand joined the U.S. Navy which took him to many ports including Australia, the Philippines, Vietnam and Japan aboard various ships - USS Alamo, USS Comstock and USS Bausell, retiring in 1974 with the rank of Chief Operations Specialist.

Post Navy he became an avid garage sale, flea market, and auction house enthusiast eventually creating a successful living as a bookseller (Mr. Books in Peru, IN then online). A clever cartoonist he loved to draw contributing to Navy newsletters and yearbooks for his various ships, also throughout the years making quick sketches as inspiration struck, comics depicting colorful characters, cards for family and friends and some beautiful still life paintings.

He enjoyed casinos playing mostly video poker and was admired by many for his sharp dressed sports coats and interesting ties.

He lived many years in Chula Vista, CA, making yearly summer trips to Peru, Indiana - spending time on their Yoder family farm. In 2015 Fernand and Paula moved to Green Valley, AZ.