David V. "Dave" Leclair

David V. "Dave" Leclair, 81, a longtime resident of Lowell, passed away peacefully on October 23, 2025 at home surrounded by his loving family and dogs. He was the beloved husband of the late Betty F. "Bunny" (Strules) Leclair with whom he shared over 50 years of marriage until her recent passing in March of 2025.
He was born in Fitchburg where he spent most of his younger years, and was the son of the late Victor and Stella Leclair.
Dave was the cherished brother of the late Margaret Whitney, as well as his late brother-in-law, James Connolly and was predeceased by his sister Jeanne Connolly (who he adored) and brother Paul Leclair. Known affectionately as "Uncle David," he held a special place in the hearts of many nieces and nephews. Additionally, his long-time friend and former neighbor, Harry Kimball.
Though he never had children of his own, Dave selflessly stepped into the role of father to Bunny's children-Sara Jordan and her spouse Sean of Pelham, NH, Tim Caunter of Franklin, NH, David Caunter of San Jose, CA and the late Michael Caunter of Lowell. His devotion to Bunny was endless; there was no "Dave" without "Bunny". Together they shared a beautiful life filled with laughter, love, and faith-not to mention over 100 trips to Disney! Those who knew them could see the deep bond they shared-a love that endures even now, as they are reunited once again. Their playful bickering and quick comebacks were legendary among family and friends-a sign of two people who loved each other completely and couldn't imagine life any other way.
A proud "Pepe" to many-Sarah Bijeol, Allysa Diaz, Lauren Caunter, Leanna Caunter, Race Caunter, and Zachary Jordan-and great-grandchildren Alexia Bijeol-Strong and Charlene Cervantes, Lucca and Eli Diaz. He shared a particularly special bond with his first grandchild, Stephanie (Vinas) Southworth, as well as her daughter, Peighton Southworth, whose loving care and devotion over the past decade brought great comfort and joy to both Bunny and Dave.
For many years, Dave worked as a dedicated truck driver for BFI/Republic Services, taking great pride in his work and his role in the community. Ever the collector, he had an eye for "trash treasures" discovered along his route-doorknobs, electrical gadgets, and all sorts of odds and ends he saw potential in. He could find value where others might not, a quality that reflected how he lived and loved.
A lifelong resident of Epping Street, Dave was the kind of neighbor everyone wished they had-friendly, dependable, and quick to lend a hand. He loved the simple pleasures of life: a cold glass of milk, his daily walk to get the mail, solitaire on his phone, a good chat with his neighbors, visits with his sister Jeanne, taking weekly trips to Walmart and Sams Club.
Dave was a man of deep faith and a devoted member of Holy Family Parish and St. Joseph's Worker Shrine in Lowell, finding great comfort with his relationship with God. He lived his life with gratitude, kindness, and humility, always ready with a helping hand. Above all, he adored animals-especially his beloved companions Daisy, Sweetie, and Joy, who brought light and comfort to his days.
Dave's gentle spirit, unwavering faith, and quiet generosity will be deeply missed but never forgotten-his legacy lives on in the laughter, love, and kindness he shared so freely.
Stephanie would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to Cathy Stanton, Dave's devoted niece, Luis Diaz (husband of Allysa), and Jeffrey Southworth for their unwavering love, care, and support over the past year, as well as the compassionate team at Care Dimensions – especially Jodie, for their exceptional kindness and comfort in his final days.
Relatives and friends are invited to attend his Memorial Funeral Mass to be celebrated on October 29, 2025 at 10am, Holy Family Parish, 75 Chamberlain Street, Lowell, MA. Interment to follow in Lowell Cemetery, Lowell where a brief service will occur for both Bunny & Dave. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in his memory to the EWTN (Eternal Word Television Network – Catholic TV) a channel that brought him great peace over the past year https://missions.ewtn.com/donation/love-and-understanding/