Roland Joseph Lacroix

AUGUSTA – Roland Joseph Lacroix, 94, of Augusta, died July 27, 2022 of natural causes at Glenridge Rehabilitation and Longterm Care in Augusta. He was moved to the facility from The Inn at City Hall where he resided for the past 15 months.

He was born in Bridgeport, Conn., on April 18, 1928, the second oldest of eight children of Samuel Lacroix and Claudia (Robichaud) Lacroix. His marriage to Eileen (Burrows) Lacroix began on Sept. 23, 1950. Together they moved to Augusta in 1973.

While an infant, his family moved to Quebec, Canada. When they returned to Connecticut 14 years later, Roland spoke only French and over several years taught himself to speak, read and write English. He had a passion for music which began as a child and he taught himself to play guitar, mandolin and keyboard. When he was in his mid-80s, he taught himself the violin. In his younger years, Roland lead a country western band from which he retired in order to focus on the demands of family and fatherhood. After moving to Maine, he and Eileen helped form a musical group called, “The Joyful Friends” which brought joy to area nursing home residents for many years. He was also a regular attraction at annual events at St. Andrews Church and Le Club Calumet. He made friends easily due to his warm smile and friendly personality. He was happiest when he could entertain with an instrument in his hands.

He always had a curious mind and was a fine craftsman. When he wasn’t playing music, you could find him in his work shop tinkering with electronics or working with wood. He was an auto-mechanic by trade and eventually opened his own auto repair shops in Connecticut and later in Maine, where he was respected for his skill, workmanship and honesty in business.

He is survived by his children Linda M. LaCroix and son, Joseph R. LaCroix, both of Augusta; his granddaughter, Jessie J. (LaCroix) Villarreal and her husband, Daniel, of Waterville; and more than 50 nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his wife, Eileen; his parents; and all seven of his siblings.

His ashes will be interred along with his wife’s in a private ceremony with just the immediate family in attendance.

Husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle and friend….you are gone from our sight, but our hearts and minds will never forget the warmth of your smile, your sweet music in our ear, or your sweet and gentle spirit.