Ronald L. Groleau

Whitinsville- Ronald L. Groleau, 71, passed away peacefully at his home on Thursday May 25, 2023 after a brave long battle with cancer.

He is survived by 2 sons, James M. Groleau of East Greenwich, RI, Patrick Williamson of Fitchburg; his girlfriend, Frances M. (Reno) Lessard with whom he lived and spent the last 4 years; 3 siblings, Daryl Groleau of Killingly, CT, Alan Groleau of Columbia, SC, and Diane Groleau of Randolph, VT; his aunt, Anita Watson of Webster MA, a large network of close cousins, nieces and nephews from the Watson’s, Carlisle’s, and Duclos clans. He was predeceased by his wife Christine M. (Temple) Groleau in May 2018.

 Born in Randolph, VT on June 5, 1951 he was the son of Lawrence and Altha Groleau and spent his childhood years moving around frequently; as his father was in the Army. His extended family called him ‘Ronnie’. His favorite places that he lived growing up were Germany and Hawaii. Ronald also proudly served in the U.S Army himself during the Vietnam War in the First Air Cavalry Division.

After his military service, he pursued his music ambitions in California and later worked many years in the trucking industry as a dispatcher up until his retirement. Ronald was an incredibly talented musician, playing both the electric guitar and bass. He was in numerous bands as the lead guitarist and regularly served in church worship teams over the years. He loved music, and enjoyed teaching lessons. He enjoyed listening to his vinyl records.  He loved the Beatles and world music. .

He also enjoyed woodworking, making beautifully carved signs as gifts to loved ones, and was known for loving his “cowboy coffee” (black), and his cat Daisy. His hobbies also included calligraphy, fishing, and pencil drawings. He was a kind mannered great guy, and his family will always cherish their fond memories of him.

His memorial calling hours will be held on Sunday, June 11th from 1:30-3:30 PM in Jackman Funeral Home, 12 Spring St., Whitinsville. A service of remembrance will begin in the funeral home at 3:30 PM followed by full military honors. In lieu of flowers, donations in Ronald’s memory may be made to the American Cancer Society, P.O. Box 6704, Hagerstown, MD 21741.

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