Ronald J. LeBlanc

SHIRLEY - Ronald J. LeBlanc, 81, of Templeton, formerly of Fitchburg and Shirley, passed away on Wednesday morning, August 13, 2025 in the Highlands, Fitchburg, with his daughters by his side. Ron was born in Sackville, New Brunswick, Canada on December 6, 1943. He was the son of the late Abby and Evelyn (LeBlanc) LeBlanc and came to Fitchburg with his mother and father at a very young age. He attended Fitchburg High School before joining the United States Army. Ron served honorably during the Vietnam War, assigned to the Army's 54th Engineering Battalion in Wildflecken, Germany. Ron began his career as a delivery driver for the Ayer Ice Company. He continued for more than 40 years as a dedicated oil delivery driver for Shattuck Oil in Pepperell. Known for his reliability, friendly demeanor, and genuine care for those he served, he formed lifelong bonds with both customers and colleagues. Among those treasured friendships were his close connections with Tommy Shattuck and Mary Olsen, who remained dear to him throughout his life. In his younger years, he enjoyed playing ice hockey in local recreational leagues. Over the years, Ron looked forward to his annual card night with friends, a tradition that brought laughter, friendly competition, and countless memories. He especially cherished the bond he shared with his closest friend, Steve "Red" Esielionis, whose friendship lasted throughout their lifetimes. Ron leaves his two daughters, Tracy A. Largey of Templeton and her husband John Largey, and Marcy T. Beaupre of Lunenburg. He leaves behind three grandchildren, Malcolm LeBlanc, Anthony Beaupre, and Emma Beaupre; his former wife, Jane (Pranouskes) LeBlanc and her longtime companion James Thibault of Shirley; his two sisters, Darlene Nelson and her husband Robert Nelson of Leominster, and Carol Fantozzi and her husband Peter Fantozzi of Virginia Beach, VA, as well as nieces and nephews. Ron shared a special bond with his oldest grandson, Malcolm. Whether he was buckling his car seat into the oil truck to take him along on oil deliveries, bringing him for steamers and lobsters with Uncle Joe (Mitchell), or hosting sleepover nights at his parents' house, the two were never apart for very long. As Malcolm grew older, Ron never missed a game or special event in his life. They enjoyed weekly dinners filled with pool games and Keno, and shared a love for music – attending concerts together with Tracy, their favorite being John Fogerty. Calling hours for Ron will be held on Thursday evening, August 21, 2025, from 4:00 to 7:00 PM at Anderson Funeral Home, 25 Fitchburg Rd., Ayer. Funeral services will be held Friday morning, August 22, 2025, at 11:00 AM in the Anderson Funeral Home, followed by a burial in St. Anthony's Cemetery in Shirley. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Ronald's name to Clear Path for Veterans New England. www.clearpathne.org