One of Maine's best-known businessmen has died. Ival "Bud" Cianchette, a founder of the Cianbro Corporation, died last night at the age of 83.
Cianchette was born and raised in Pittsfield and graduated from Central Maine Institute. He and his brothers founded Cianchette Brothers, Inc. -- which later became Cianbro Corporation -- after Bud Cianchette returned from military service in Europe during World War II. Cianbro is now one of the state's largest construction firms.
Cianchette also owned an operated Cianchette Stables, which bred, raised and trained Standardbred horses, according to an obituary on Cianbro's Website. Cianchette was active in politics as well, serving as a delegate to the Republican National Convention in 2004. His son Peter ran unsuccessfully for governor in 2002.
Cianchette's death is being mourned by Gov. John Baldacci and the state's other political luminaries. "Bud was a problem solver and a man deeply devoted to family, business and community," Baldacci says in a statement. "Bud and his family have contributed much to Maine. He is part of one of the great family stories of this State."
Sen. Olympia Snowe says Cianchette was an "extraordinary titan of industry and one of the towering giants of business in Maine for more than fifty years" who "exemplified Maine's legendary work-ethic and can-do spirit."
Sen. Susan Collins says the state has lost "a wonderful man." In a statement, she says Cianchette "was an extraordinary leader in Maine's business community and a devoted family man, who made countless contributions to his community and to our state."
A funeral is scheduled for next Wednesday at the First Baptist Church in Pittsfield.
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