Willard R Lemaire passed away peacefully on June 22nd, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. He was born on September 21, 1939, in Worcester, Massachusetts, to the late Willard R Lemaire and Dorothy (Allison) Lemaire.
He was preceded in death by his parents, his brother Allison, and his sister Sally.
Willard attended high school at Wachusett Regional high school in Holden, Massachusetts. He went on to further his education at Norwich University. He proudly served his country in the United States Army as 1st Lieutenant at Fort Hauchuca, Arizona, demonstrating the dedication and honor that would characterize his entire life.
Following his military service, Willard built a distinguished career in the aerospace and defense industry. He worked for Pratt & Whitney in Connecticut before relocating to New Hampshire, where he continued his career with Sanders Associates in Nashua.
Willard was a devoted member of the Masonic fraternity and the Shriners organization throughout his life. His commitment to service extended beyond his professional career, as he served on the board of directors at the Springfield Shriners Hospital, contributing to the organization's mission of providing specialized medical care to children. His dedication was recognized when he was honored to serve as Potentate for the Bektash Shrine in 2003, a role he held with great pride and distinction. During his time in service to the Shrine, he traveled extensively, representing the organization and furthering its charitable mission.
His love for service and the outdoors started in The Boy Scouts of America where he achieved Eagle Scout. He was a camper, hiker, and sailor, finding peace and adventure in nature's settings. His passion for outdoor activities became a cherished family tradition, as he inspired his children to embrace the same sense of adventure, creating countless memories together in the great outdoors.
He leaves behind his former wife, Linda Lemaire; their daughter Lisa and her husband Jay Berman, their children Allison, Lauren, and Ben; their son David and his wife Monica, with their children Abbey and Taylor, and great-grandchild McKayla.
He also leaves behind his second wife Mildred (Aho) and her children Karen, Dave, his wife Amy, and their children, Jennifer, her husband Dominic, Ericka, William, and great-granddaughter Elizabeth.
Willard's legacy of service, dedication to family, and commitment to helping others will be remembered by all who knew him. His life exemplified the values of honor, service, and compassion that he held dear throughout his journey.
A memorial service will be held at Greendale Peoples Church, 25 Francis St, Worcester, MA, on July 7 at 11 AM followed by a private burial at Hope Cemetery, 119 Webster St, Worcester, MA.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Shriners Children's at https://www.shrinerschildrens.org/