Laurie J. Girouard

Laurie J. Girouard, known affectionately by his family and friends as Pa-pa, Larry, Buddy, Rocky was a loving, charismatic soul who made a profound impact on every life he touched. Born in Sackville, New Brunswick, Canada, on March 18, 1942, Laurie spent a majority of his life in Fitchburg, Massachusetts. His captivating charm and caring nature were the pillars of his life, drawing people to him and creating bonds that were cherished by all.

For over 40 years, Laurie made his living as a plumber and carpenter. However, his true passion lay in the world of music. He founded Laurie Lee and the Drifters, and the group had the honor of opening for the legendary Johnny Cash and other renowned Country Western groups. He played at the Wagon Wheel for many years, and it was there that he met the love of his life, Louise. As Mark Twain once said, "Sing like no one's listening, love like you've never been hurt, dance like nobody's watching, and live like it's heaven on earth," Laurie lived this quote every day, singing with passion, loving with all his heart, and living life to the fullest.

Beyond his professional life and musical achievements, Laurie was a man who loved his family and friends above all else. He had a penchant for collecting Coca Cola memorabilia and Hot Wheels, and he loved playing Bingo with his wife Louise. The simple pleasures of life brought him immense joy, from the majestic view of the ocean at Wells Beach to the peaceful atmosphere of his daughter’s cottage. At the core of his existence was his unwavering love for his family. He is survived by his daughters Tina (John) Huntoon and Tanya (John) Vedoe, his son Bob Lucas, his brother Fred Girouard, his grandchildren Virginia (Nick) Tedesco, Johnny Huntoon, Stephanie (James) Shadd, and his great-grandchildren Violet Tedesco, Ruby Tedesco, Levi Shadd, Liv Shadd, and Nora Shadd. He was preceded in death by his wife Louise Girouard, his daughter Michelle (Girouard) Henderson, parents, Acquilla and Edmee Girouard, his brother Ivan Girouard, and his sister Dorette Briggs.

As we remember Laurie, we encourage you to share your memories and upload photos to his memorial page. Come, celebrate his life, and keep his loving and charismatic spirit alive.

Calling hours will be held Thursday, January 22, 2026, from 8 to 9 am at Brandon Funeral Home, 305 Wanoosnoc Road, Fitchburg, MA.

A Funeral Mass will be held at 10 am at St. Boniface Parish, 817 Massachusetts Ave, Lunenburg, MA. Burial to follow at St. Bernard's Cemetery, 96 Goodrich St, Fitchburg, MA.