AUGUSTA – The Capuchin Franciscan friars of the Province of St. Mary mourn the death of their brother, Fr. Roland Daigle, OFM Cap., who passed from this life on May 7, 2024, in Albany, N.Y., at the age of 72. A missionary priest, Father Roland served the Catholic Church in Okinawa, Japan, for 31 years and in Guam for three years.

Father Roland was the seventh child born to Fortunat Daigle and Irene Begin-Poulin in Augusta on May 8, 1951. He graduated from St. Augustine Parochial School and Cony High School in Augusta. While working at a textile mill, he studied psychology at the University of Maine, graduating in 1975. For three semesters he was a seminarian for the Diocese of Portland, but his heart was drawn to the Franciscan way of life. He entered the Capuchin order on Aug. 31, 1977, and pronounced perpetual vows on Sept. 18, 1982. He was ordained to the priesthood on June 2, 1984, and moved to Japan in 1985.

During his years in Okinawa, Father Roland distinguished himself as a pastor in Awase, Futenma, Koza, and Maehara. He later served as a full-time auxiliary chaplain to the U.S. military bases there. He finished his missionary service in Guam as a parochial assistant at St. Jude Church in Sinajana.

After a heart attack in Guam in 2019, Father Roland returned to the U.S. for health reasons. He resided at St. Lawrence Friary, Beacon, N.Y., from August 2021 until shortly before his death.

He was predeceased by his parents; and a brother, the Rev. Donald Daigle.

He is survived by two brothers, Lawrence and Maurice, two sisters, Jeanette Fortier and Stella Savage; and 14 nephews and nieces.

The wake will be held on Wednesday, May 15, 6:30-8:30 p.m., at St. Clare Friary, 110 Shonnard Place, Yonkers, N.Y. The funeral will be celebrated on Thursday, May 16, at 11 a.m. at Sacred Heart Church, 110 Shonnard Place, Yonkers, N.Y.

In place of flowers, donations can be made to the Province of St. Mary in support of the continued good works of the Capuchin Franciscan friars.

Send donations to the

Capuchin Mission and

Development Office,

110 Shonnard Place,

Yonkers, NY 10703.

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