Paul Dumont ... former Rochester police commissioner; at 95

ROCHESTER - Paul Joseph Dumont, beloved father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and steadfast community leader, died peacefully with loved ones at his home of 57 years on July 17th 2025. Born on May 26, 1930, in Portland, Maine, to Eva (Dumais) Dumont and Emile Dumont, Paul grew up with a deep appreciation for hard work, service, and family values that would shape his extraordinary life.

At a young age, Paul met the love of his life, Charlotte "Chy" Rippett. Together, they built a beautiful life in Gonic, New Hampshire, where they raised five children and established a successful electronics business. Paul also took over his father's store, "Dumont's:" on the Square, honoring his roots while building a future. With quiet dedication, he even constructed a small home in the backyard so his parents could spend their final years close to family.

Paul and Chy raised their children with strong work ethics, a commitment to public service, and, above all, a compassionate heart that never overlooked someone in need. Their children went on to become entrepreneurs, builders, and leaders in their own right-a living testament to the legacy Paul and Chy nurtured.

After losing Chy in 1996, Paul carried on with resilience and grace, doing everything he could to fill the void for his family. A passionate inventor and lifelong learner, Paul believed in using his mind every day. He was often found tinkering in his workshop, creating electronic devices or in the kitchen, crafting inventive recipes long before gadgets like sous vide wands became mainstream. True to his nature, he made one for himself and each of his children.

Paul's commitment to community was as strong as his love for family. He began his public service in state government but soon found his true calling at the local level. He proudly served as Strafford County Commissioner for an incredible 34 years, and later, as a Police Commissioner in Rochester. He was known for his unwavering integrity, particularly when advocating for children, the disadvantaged and the elderly. Paul never backed down in the face of injustice and believed deeply in doing what was right.

He loved a good chess match, a lively card game with "the guys," and the spirited boys-versus-girls competitions with his daughter Paula, her husband Randy, and his longtime companion, Gabrielle. Above all, nothing brought him more joy or pride than the family he and Chy raised and the time they spent together, the Dumont household hosted countless lobster feasts, family parties, shooting pool and lots of laughs.

Paul was predeceased by his beloved wife Chy and his parents, Emile and Eva Dumont.

He is survived by his devoted children: Mike Dumont and wife Carol, Rick Dumont and wife Cindy, Paula Dumont Bamberger and husband Randy, Jeff Dumont, Pamela Dumont Filby and husband Svend. Paul leaves behind 12 cherished grandchildren:

Jeni Dumont, Ryan Dumont (Tina), Tyler Dumont (Amanda), Julie Gonzalez (NeNe), Erica McAvoy (Steve), Brian Dumont, Bryar Bamberger, Bret Bamberger, Kendal Bamberger, Leah Chabot (Troy), Logan Thomas (Katherine), and Jacob Dumont.

He was also blessed with 25 great-grandchildren (soon to be 26) and 2 great-great-grandchildren, three brothers Raymond Dumont, Albert Dumont, Gerard Dumont, many nieces and nephews and a long time beloved companion Gabrielle Paige.