Roger V. Laplante, 78, formerly of 96 Alvarado Ave., devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother and friend, passed away Thursday, December 14th in the Memorial Hospital after an illness.

Roger is survived by his beloved wife and partner of 53 years, Nancy A. (D’Andrea) Laplante; three sons, Stephen R. Laplante and his wife Kathleen of Jefferson, David R. Laplante and his wife Patricia of Leominster, Scott A. Laplante and his wife Lori of Worcester; two daughters, Linda Watson and her husband Mark of Sturbridge, and Lisa Genatossio and her husband Stephen of Holden; a sister, Lucille Laplante of Worcester; nine grandchildren, Michael Watson, twin sisters Jillian and Jaime Laplante, Caitlin Laplante, Jason Watson, Vanessa, Nina and Jackson Genatossio, and Justin Laplante; many nieces and nephews. Roger was born in Worcester son of the late Albert and Clara (Grise) Laplante. He graduated from Worcester Boys Trade, served in the United States Army Air Corps during World War II, and has lived here all his life.

Roger worked more than 30 years for the Commonwealth Gas Company before retiring in 1988.

He was a member of St. Margaret Mary Church, a member of it’s former men’s club and a member of the AFL-CIO, United Steel Workers of American Union, Local 12004. A 33 years member of the Starcraft Camping Club, and a Lifetime American Red Cross Blood Donor. He enjoyed camping, and trips to Foxwoods and Mohegan Casinos.

Roger’s funeral Mass will be held Saturday, December 16th at 10:00 a.m in St. Margaret Mary Church, 75 Alvarado Ave. Burial will follow in Worcester County Memorial Park in Paxton. There are no calling hours. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to St. Margaret Mary Church, 75 Alvarado Ave. or the Pulmonary Fibrosis Association, care of Dr. Steven Davis, UMass-Memorial, 85 Prescott St., Worcester, 01609. The MERCADANTE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL, 370 Plantation St. has been chosen to assist the family with arrangements.