Edward J. Duquette

Edward Joseph Duquette, age 100, of Lawrence, Massachusetts, passed away peacefully on Monday, September 8, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. A man of strength, deep devotion, and enduring resilience, Edward's life spanned a century of change, service, and love, each year marked by his unwavering commitment to family, country, and community.

Born in Lawrence in 1924 to the late Clovis Duquette and Rose Alma (Baillargeon) Duquette, Edward was raised with strong values and a deep sense of duty. He attended St. Augustine School for grammar school and graduated from Lawrence High School in the Class of 1942. Shortly after graduation, he answered the call to serve his country, enlisting in both the United States Army and Air Force during World War II.

As a Turret Gunner, Edward was stationed throughout Europe and North Africa, serving with courage and honor in some of the most pivotal moments of the war. His service was a defining chapter in his life, and he carried the discipline, humility, and pride of a veteran with him always.

In 1954, Edward married the love of his life, Olive L. (Morin) Duquette, beginning a partnership that would span more than 50 years. Together, they built a home filled with laughter, tradition, and unconditional love. Their marriage was a model of devotion and strength, and Olive's passing in 2006 left a space in Edward's heart that he carried with grace and quiet remembrance.

Edward was the devoted father of: Elaine D. Carbonneau and her late husband Gary of Londonderry, NH, Paula J. Duquette of Lawrence, MA, Edward J. Duquette Jr. of Lawrence, MA, Michael L. Duquette and his wife Toni of Tennessee, and Robert A. Duquette and his wife Lucie of Derry, NH.

He was the adored grandfather of: Danyelle S. Garcia and her husband Rafael, Kenneth R. Nadeau Jr., Matthew J. Nadeau and his wife Melissa, Lisa M. Nadeau, Stephen A. Duquette, Nathan E. Duquette, Timothy "TJ" J. Duquette and his wife Caly, and Jeffrey M. Duquette, the cherished great-grandfather of: Samuel, Benjamin, Sophia, Olive, and Reagan.

Edward's love for his family was steadfast and unconditional. He was a guiding presence, a protector, and a source of wisdom and comfort. His grandchildren and great-grandchildren brought him endless joy, and he took great pride in their accomplishments and character.

He is also fondly remembered by many cousins, nieces, and nephews, each of whom held a special place in his heart. He was predeceased by his brother Arthur M. Duquette and his favorite cousin Doris Sweeney, whose memory he carried with tenderness.

Edward was a man of many passions. He was a lifelong fan of Boston sports, especially the Red Sox and Patriots, and in recent years had taken a keen interest in golf, particularly the women's league, which he watched with curiosity and delight. He also loved boxing matches, drawn to the discipline and grit of the sport.

He had a sweet tooth for ice cream frappes and cookies, a love he never outgrew, and found comfort in a good cup of coffee and his favorite meal, a classic boiled dinner, which he enjoyed with quiet satisfaction.

A talented woodworker, Edward crafted furniture for his family with care and precision. His garage was his sanctuary, a place where he could tinker, build, and reflect. Each piece he made was infused with love and legacy, and his craftsmanship will be treasured for generations.

Though known for his hard exterior, those closest to him knew the truth: Edward was a teddy bear at heart. Beneath his stoic demeanor was a man of deep emotion, fierce loyalty, and boundless love. He gave of himself quietly but completely, and his presence was a source of strength and comfort to all who knew him.

Edward's century of life was filled with purpose, love, and grace. He will be remembered not only for the roles he played, soldier, husband, father, grandfather, but for the way he made people feel: safe, loved, and deeply valued.

His legacy lives on in the stories told around family tables, in the furniture he built with his hands, and in the hearts of those who were lucky enough to call him theirs.

Visiting Hours will be held on Monday, September 15, 2025 from 10:00 am – 11:00 am at Cataudella Funeral Home, 126 Pleasant Valley Street, Methuen. His Funeral Service will begin at 11:00 am in the Funeral Home Chapel. Burial to follow at Immaculate Conception Cemetery.