David R Rocheleau

David R. Rocheleau, 85, of Fitchburg, formerly of Gardner, passed away peacefully on Monday, September 15, 2025, in Fitchburg Healthcare.

David was born in Gardner on February 20, 1940, the son of the late Francis and Rachel (Case) Rocheleau. A proud graduate of Gardner High School, Class of 1959, he went on to continue his education at Mount Wachusett Community College, where he earned his Associate's Degree in General Studies and Business Administration. David dedicated many years of his career as a machine operator with Niagara Cutter Inc. in Athol, until his retirement in 2002.

David proudly served his country in the United States Navy from 1959 to 1963 during the Vietnam War, honoring his nation with dedication and courage.

David was a former parishoner of the Sacred Heart of Jesus Church. He was an active member of the American Legion Post 905 of Gardner, and the Gardner Senior Center. He found joy in watching movies and television-especially NASCAR-as well as gardening, golfing, fishing, and traveling. Above all else, David cherished the moments he shared with his beloved family.

David is survived by his beloved wife, Paulette J. (Hebert) Rocheleau of Gardner; a son, Mark D. Rocheleau and his husband, Jason Quader of Fitchburg; a daughter, Denise M. Rouleau and her significant other, Rick Mancinelli of Littleton; two grandchildren, Kelsey M. Bachta and her husband, Ed of Lancaster, Kaitlyn M. Rouleau and her significant other, Andy Duggan of Morrisville, North Carolina; a great-granddaughter, Ivyann Duggan of NC; David is also survived by several nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Besides his parents, David was predeceased by his sister, Claire M. Lagasse.

Calling Hours will be held Tuesday, September 23, 2025, from 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m. in the Boucher Funeral Home, Inc., 110 Nichols Street, Gardner, MA. Funeral Services to follow in the funeral home at 1:00 p.m.

Burial with Military Honors will be at the Massachusetts Veterans Memorial Cemetery, 111 Glenallen Street, Winchendon, MA at 2:00 p.m.

Memorial Contributions may be made to the Parkinson's Foundation, 1359 Broadway, Suite 1509, New York, NY 10018. or at https://www.parkinson.org/. Please reference in memory of David R. Rocheleau.