It is known around the Lewiston/Auburn community that I have provided Event Photography for many years. Political Rally's, Graduation Ceremonies, Ribbon Cutting, etc... But, every once in awhile, a request comes in that gives me a little pause. I received a call from a friend I had not seen in a few years. Her Uncle had died and her cousins wanted the Funeral and Procession photographed in a Photo Journalistic style and she had recommended my services. I had a nice chat with one of the daughters and decided it was something that I could do in a respectful reportage style.

Herve Gendreau had been the Police Chief of Lewiston, Maine when he retired after 30 years of service to the community. Chief Gendreau had started as a patrolman and worked himself up to Police Chief. Following his retirement he worked 19 years for the Public Works Department in Lewiston. The Funeral would have many police, fellow workers, friends and relatives in attendance.

The day began with an open casket viewing at the Pinnette, Dillingham and Lynch Funeral Home in Lewiston. It was a solemn occasion with family and friends saying their last goodbyes.

Herve GendreauHerve Gendreau Funeral Service and Procession

It was time to head for Saint Peter and Paul's Basilica for the funeral service. The procession was led by a Police Cruiser with its lights flashing, followed by the Funeral Home Hearse, a limousine with the immediate family members, Herve's Cadillac with his grandchildren, and friends, family, police vehicles and public works trucks.

The Lewiston Police Honor Guard was waiting at the Basilica to escort the casket. Two members of the U.S.Army Honor Guard were also on hand.

Herve GendreauHerve Gendreau Funeral Service and Procession

The Priest, an old family friend, conducted the service. His niece and daughters gave heart felt eulogies extolling the wonderful father, uncle, husband, and member of the community that Herve Gendreau served and lived in.

Herve GendreauHerve Gendreau Funeral Service and Procession The Basilica is a beautiful building outside, but inside it is truly outstanding. I wanted to be as unobtrusive as possible, so as to not disrupt the ceremony and call attention to my presence. The Canon 5D Mark III that is my main work horse of a camera, allowed me to shoot at a higher ISO, of 3200, with only introducing minimal noise, eliminating the need for a flash.

Herve GendreauHerve Gendreau Funeral Service and Procession The soldiers from the US Army Honor Guard performed a flag draping ceremony and the casket was transported to the Saint Peters Cemetery for a short ceremony that preceded the internment.  Once at the cemetery, the Honor Guard folded the flag and presented it to his wife. That is always a solemn ceremony.

Herve GendreauHerve Gendreau Funeral Service and Procession Herve GendreauHerve Gendreau Funeral Service and Procession

The family now has memories of this special day to look back on and share with the next generation. It was a pleasure, and a privilege, being able to provide this service as part of my business model.

I am available for Events: Corporate, Private, and Political; Headshots: Corporate, Private, and Social Media; Small Intimate Weddings: Elopements, Second Weddings, Vow Renewals, Destination Ceremonies; and Family Portraits: Small and Large, In the Studio or On Location. Samples of my work can be seen at: www.jimwalkerphotography.com.

Contact me for your next event or other photography needs: Contact Me

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