I met Dennis while working on a project in Mali. We met and worked together maybe a handful of times but on those few occasions that we did work together I met a truly exceptional, unforgettable human being. His laughter, sense of humor, love of Mali were totally infectious. The world and Mali in particular, will not be the same without him. Though I did not know him that well, his loss will be truly felt. May you rest in Peace, dear Dennis, wherever you are.
Dennis was a colleague of mine at USAID. I traveled to Mali 3-4 times in the past 7 years and each time, Dennis was always there to greet me and, usually, take me on a wonderful trip to show me Mali and teach me about his work. Ever modest and always greeted with such open arms, Dennis had the Malians laughing with him before we even got out of our car. He lived so well, gave so much to others, showed others by example how to live well by doing good. Judy Payne
When I was in high school I was absorbed into a group of friends known as “The Gang.” Do not attach the usual stereotypes to this gang, though, for even parents approved of our choice in friends. Dennis was the magnet. The core of ten or so would grow depending on the occasion. He came up with the most outrageously fun ideas for parties and outings. And that infectious laugh! No one could remain sad around this warm, gregarious guy.
When Dennis left for the Peace Corps to Ivory Coast, we felt his absence profoundly – a gang without its leader. In pre-email days we stayed in touch as best we could, and we were able to reconnect when he was working in Washington, D.C. I had accepted a job that also brought me to Washington, and Dennis helped me set up my apartment. I remember watching the Latin American Festival parade from his window, and he was waving various African flags yelling, “No tengo un perro (I don’t have a dog)! Vive la Cote d’Ivoire!” All to the confusion of the paraders below.
It didn’t often happen that I was back in Maine during Dennis’ home leave, but we always met up on those rare occasions. Years may have passed, but in a matter of a couple of hours we could get all caught up on each other’s lives. It just happened that this past September we were both in Maine but missed each other by a day. He called me as I was on my way to the airport heading back home to Phoenix. I am so thankful we at least had a chance to phone chat before he returned to Mali.
I’ve learned recently of all his humanitarian efforts, not from Dennis – he would have thought it boastful – but through his brother Gary who has been amassing stories from those who are now sharing from the heart the many selfless acts to help people in need.
Dennis, I miss you my friend. You are a great loss for two continents.
Dennis is sadly missed by all of his family in Maine, in Mali and all over the world.
Dennis P. Bilodeau, 61, died unexpectedly November 14, 2009 in Bamako, Mali, West Africa. He was born September 16, 1948 in Lewiston, Maine, the son of Angelo & Dolores (Michaud) Bilodeau. Dennis was educated in Lewiston Schools, graduated from St. Doms High School in 1966, graduated from USM in 1970 with a B.A. in Physics and Mathematics. In 1971 left Maine to serve 4 year term with Peace Corp, in Ivory Coast, West Africa. There he fell in love with the land and people of Africa. His experiences there lead him to many opportunities. He worked with various agencies in his career. He had over 26 years of experience in the field of international development, one such project with the US Agricultural Dept. helped Malians grow food and market food they produced. In recent years he worked as Governance & Communications Team Leader at USAID Mali, leading a five-person team working to build democracy and good governance in Mali and to support the Malian Government’s efforts to decentralize service delivery, and promote access to information via community radio and the Internet. His spirit lives on among the radio waves that emanate from the dozens of community based radio stations that he helped establish across the country and in the countless of thousands of lives he touched through his good works. Dennis was a joyous, friendly, kind man with a generous spirit. He opened up his home to local orphans, always willing to provide advice and support. People he held dear are the children from a neighboring orphanage and his co-workers from US Embassy in Mali. Due to living and serving the people Africa for more than 38 years he leaves behind an extended family of friends in Mali. A funeral service was held in Africa on Tuesday and he was buried there according to his wishes.
Dennis had just spent 2 months home from Africa, enjoying the company of family and friends.
He is survived by his parents Angelo and Dolores Bilodeau of Lewiston, 4 siblings, Gary & Cathy Bilodeau of Durham, Elaine & Rob Chenard of Durham, David & Janet Bilodeau of Sabattus, Paul & Kathleen Bilodeau of Greene, aunts and uncles, nieces and nephews. Predeceased by nephews Dana Bilodeau and Derrick Morris.
We will never forget your smile
Welcome to a site dedicated to honor the memory of a man who lived his life to help others. It is our greatest wish that this blog be a gathering place for everyone one who had the pleasure of knowing Dennis, whether in the U.S., in Mali or beyond! We welcome your stories, comments, photos and anything you would like to share with those who loved him so very much…..
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in his name that will benefit the children in Africa.
