Renald J. Messier

Renald Joseph Messier, 91, of Newport died peacefully at North Country Hospital on Saturday, September 5, 2020. His family was able to say goodbye to him, thankfully, in person and by phone.

Renald was born at his family farm in Newport Center on November 21, 1928 to Laura (Maheu) Messier and Leo Messier.  He attended grade school in Newport Center, then Sacred Heart High School, graduating in 1947.

Renald met the love of his life, June Grover, at the Red Wing Dance Hall. Their love of Big Band music and dancing continued throughout their lives. They were married on June 28, 1952, and had two daughters. Renald was an extremely loving and dedicated father and grandfather. 

After getting married, Renald was still a devoted son, going to his parents' farm every Sunday to help with chores, and haying in the summer. Family was a priority. He cherished family gatherings and visits from relatives. When his brother, Roger, would visit from Texas every summer, they were quite the pair! 

Renald's love of farming continued with his job at Eastern States, which later became Agway. He worked there 34+ years, first delivering grain, then as an assistant manager. He was well-known and well-liked by customers for his knowledge and good nature, and for his willingness to go the extra mile. His coworkers will also remember his sense of humor. He is a legend at Agway.

Renald also loved growing vegetables. His impressive garden was admired by everyone who passed by. When his grandson was young, Renald enjoyed teaching him how to plant and harvest. Renald and June canned and froze many vegetables in the heat of August, when June really wanted to be at the beach!

Renald was a member of the Knights of Colombus, and volunteered for the Newport Fire Department in the 1960's and '70's. He was a devout Catholic. His strong faith sustained him, especially after the death of his wife in 2009. He was a jack-of-all-trades, and loved being at home puttering. He was a hard worker who never complained; was very patient, humble, caring, respectful, and always willing to lend a hand. He was part of the greatest generation. 

Renald is survived by his daughters; Jane Tomlinson and her husband Robert of Montverde, Florida, and Ann Marie Lanoue and her husband, James of Barton; by grandchildren, Andrew Lanoue and his fiance, Meg Heaghney; and Laura Lanoue and her boyfriend, Louis Prion; by his sisters: Henriette Armstrong, Marguerite Burrell, and Claire Burlton; and by several nieces, nephews, and cousins. He was predeceased by his wife; his parents; his brother, Urgel;  his sister, Andrea Smith and her husband Bert; his brother, Roger Messier and his wife Bettie; and by brothers-in-law Robert Armstrong, Bernie Burrell, and John "Pete" Burlton. 

Funeral services will be held on Friday, September 11, 2020, at 11:00 a.m. at St. Mary Star of the Sea Catholic Church . Interment will follow at St. Mary's Catholic Cemetery in Newport. There will be no calling hours.

Should friends desire, contributions in Renald's memory may be made to Mater Dei Parish, 191 Clermont Terrace, Newport, VT 05855. Please follow CDC Guidelines and please wear a mask. On-line condolences at curtis-britch.com. Arrangements are entrusted to the care of Curtis-Britch & Bouffard Funeral Home & Cremation Service, locally family owned and operated.