Roland R. Violette

1946 - 2025

Waterford – We are sad to say Roland R. Violette passed away Jan. 18, 2025, with his loving family by his side. He was born Dec. 14, 1946.

Roland was a loving husband, devoted father, loyal friend, proud Army Vietnam Veteran, and best grandpa in the world. Roland's smile and love for his family was a special gift that will be cherished by his family, friends and neighbors forever.

Roland was born in New Brunswick, Canada. He moved to Connecticut and experienced the excitement of a slice of pizza for the first time at 11 years old! New to our country, Roland only spoke French, so he learned English and by doing so, he kicked off a strong sense of determination which stayed with him throughout his life.

His parents, Rosaline and Oneil Violette predeceased Roland as well as his sisters, Normande, Giselle; and sisters-in-law, Marsha and Linda.

Roland's heart was filled for 47 years with the love of his wife, Jeanne.

Roland will be deeply missed by his daughter Jessica and her husband Greg; his sons, Jesse and Justin as well as Justin's wife Jamie and their children, Jocelyn and Jacob; and two grand-puppies, Cooper and Daisy.

He is survived by his daughter's mother, Maryanne; sisters, Rolande, Pauline, Carmella, Viola and Jacqueline. He is also survived by his brothers-in-law, Barry and Bruce and many nephews, nieces and cousins whom he loved very much.

Roland's first job delivering newspapers on two routes simultaneously helped shape his work ethic. He went on to serve in the United States Army, where he received respect and recognition for his dedication to our country working in the U.S. Military Assistance Command, Vietnam (MACV). His military service was a testament to Roland's character – including his integrity, discipline and devotion to the people he loved.

He spent almost twenty years working at A/Z Corporation earning his way into respected leadership positions. Roland loved working at A/Z and the teams he worked with loved him back. He received multiple awards throughout his time at A/Z including a prestigious lifetime achievement award.

Roland made a lasting impact on everyone around him. He was a mentor to the Waterford community. As a Cub Scout Leader of Pack 36, he helped to provide guidance, encouraged teamwork and organized confidence-building activities for local scouts. He also volunteered as a T-ball and Little League Baseball coach where he inspired his players to work together and push themselves to always improve. He made a positive difference in people's lives, whether it was for a few days or decades, Roland brought joy into everyone's lives he touched.

Roland also enjoyed spending quality time with friends and family fishing, camping, canoeing, golfing, traveling and hosting legendary BBQs. Jeanne and Roland were able to create memories together throughout the years of raising their children and making special memories with their grandchildren.

He lived a life filled with fun, love and adventures. He will always be in the hearts of those blessed to have him in their lives.

Roland's family would like to thank the doctors, nurses and staff of the West Haven VA and Beacon Hospice Care East Hartford for their exceptional care and support.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to St. Jude’s at www.stjude.org or Disabled American Veterans (DAV) at https://www.dav.org.

Calling hours will be from 3 to 5 p.m. Jan. 27, at Thomas L. Neilan & Sons East Lyme Funeral Home, 48 Grand Street, Niantic. A formal military burial will be held in the spring at the State of Connecticut Veterans Cemetery in Middletown. Please visit www.neilanfuneralhome.com to leave the family an online condolence.