Roger Gagnon

Southington – Roger Gagnon, 67, passed away suddenly and stoically of cancer on Monday, November 17, 2008, with his supportive family by his side. Roger was the beloved husband to Mildred (Stuckey) Gagnon, much loved father of Jacques Gagnon and his wife Tricia and Amy Lasek and her husband Matthew. However, his most honored role was that of Pepere to Emily and Jacob Lasek and Olivia Gagnon.

Many memories will be shared of snowmobile and tractor rides, nature walks and blueberry picking in New Hampshire.  In addition, our special trip to Disney World this past October which was first for the grandkids, as well as Pepere.

Roger was born on June 9, 1941 in Montmagny, Quebec, Canada to Rita (Morin) and Alphonse Gagnon and was one of ten children. He immigrated to the United States at the age of 15. Roger worked for the John Errichetti Co. (Creative Management Inc.) in Southington and Waterbury for more then 40 years, retiring in 2007.

Dad found Solace and relaxation at his log cabin in Acworth, NH. This was a continuous “work in progress” that houses many beautiful memories enjoyed with family and friends. Everyone enjoyed “going to the cabin”, but there was never any doubt that there was work to be done before play. Starting from the cabin, we enjoyed many snowmobile trips within New Hampshire, Vermont and Maine, as well as, weeklong adventures to Canada. This home away from home is a monument to Dad’s character, which is one of strength, commitment and craftsmanship.

During the summer months, roger spent many years enjoying his love of the sea. “Jolly Roger” has seen many voyages on the CT River and Long Island Sound. Dad enjoyed numerous trips to Block Island, a place to which he will be spiritually connected. Special memories were had at Ballard’s Restaurant, Payne’s Dock and the Southeast Light, which led to an extensive lighthouse collection.

Roger’s love for the water overflowed into the classroom, where he was a ‘lifetime’ member of the Meriden Power Squadron. With much support, he worked his way through the bridge offices. He was Commander of the Squadron in 1987. He held many positions throughout the years, but none more important to him as Assistant Chairperson for the Basic Boating Course, which sent many novice sailors safely onto the sea.

Roger had a huge heart that was caring despite his rough exterior. He supported his children’s activities by assisting his son’s Cub and Boy Scout Troops and sat through many innings of softball for his daughter; even building the concession stand at Panthorn Park in Southington. Around the holidays, he will always be remembered as the jolly, ol’ Saint Nicholas that brought many smiles through the years to the scouting troops and the elderly in Waterbury.

In addition to his immediate family, Roger is survived by his sites and brothers; Helene Metayer (Andre) of St. Ismier, France, Rachel Perreault (Donald) of Kensington, Marguerite Lagasse of Southington, Doris Bruyere of Repentigny, Quebec, Canada, Maurice Gagnon (Nicole) of Port Cartier, Quebec, Canada and Philo Gagnon of Quebec, Canada, as well as many nieces and nephews in CT and Canada.  He was predeceased by his brothers, Albert and Louis and a sister Claire all of Canada.

A funeral service will be held Wednesday evening at 7 p.m. at the DellaVecchia Funeral Home, 211 N. Main St., Southington. Calling hours will be from 5 p.m. until the time of the service. Burial will be at the convenience of the family. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Nathan Greenbacker Scholarship Fund, c/o The Meriden Power Squadron, P.O. Box 732, Meriden, CT 06450.

Visitation

Date

Time

Wednesday, Nov. 19, 2008

5 p.m. - 7 p.m.

Visitation Location

DellaVecchia Funeral Home

211 N. Main Street

Southington, CT