Normand Millette had 88, almost 89 birthdays, and it’s fair to say he packed as much as he could into each and every trip around the sun. Most of Normand's adventures in life happened proverbially in his own back yard, here in good old Woonsocket. A few of them happened in places far from the streets and neighborhoods Normand called home. But all in all, Normand Millette kept things interesting throughout his almost nine decades.
Born and raised in Woonsocket, Normand Lionel Millette was a son of the late Lionel and Noella (Lamarche) Millette. Norm passed away on Friday July 16, 2021 at Oakland Grove Health Care Center.
A native Woonsocketer through-and-through, the streets and tight quarters of the Social ‘Coin’ were Normand’s stomping grounds in his youth. Many days would find him at any number of the family-run variety stores ordering a favorite treat (and charging it on his mother’s account!) or scampering about the local ballfields for stray balls to reuse or resell.
Normand served his country as a member of the United States Air Force during the Korean War. Norm was forever proud of having worn the uniform of his country. He was a recipient of the National Defense Service Medal and the Good Conduct Medal.
Following his service to his country Normand returned to his roots in Woonsocket and was employed at Hemond's Market, Collamatti's Market and at the deli in the Marquette Building. Norm was employed by Almacs Supermarkets for over 40 years before retiring.
Normand was a member and past Post Commander of the Franco-American War Veterans Post # 15. He also served as past State Commander for the state of Rhode Island.
Normand was active with Woonsocket softball leagues. He was an avid player of quoits, bocce and bingo and helped local bingo games by assisting as a bingo caller. Norm was a staunch fan of New England sports teams and his seasons were defined by the Red Sox and Patriots schedules. He faithfully cheered them on and provided his “coaching expertise” from the vantage point of his armchair.
Norm was a gregarious and personable fellow especially in his younger years. As he aged he took on a more mature role as a “pleasantly cantankerous gentleman”, that might sound like an oxymoron but Normand Milllette could and did pull it off. Norm will be remembered for his ready laugh and overall positive outlook on whatever situation life threw his way.
Normand was the loving husband of the late Claire C. (Laprade) Millette. They married a bit later in life in 1983. Norm and Claire shared 26 years together until her passing in 2011.
Normand was the father of Tonie-ann P. Michaud (Edward) of Auburn, GA, Julie-ann C. Crimmons (Kenneth) of Aiken, SC, Peter R. Millette (Patricia) of Aiken, SC and Paul L. Millette (Debra) of Pascoag and 8 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren. Norm is also survived by Claire’s children and their families including Ronald Aubin of North Smithfield, Denise Remillard (Deacon Lionel “Bud” Remillard) of Woonsocket, Paul Aubin (the late Yvette) of Woonsocket, Marc Aubin (Janis) of Blackstone and the late Gerald “Jerry” Aubin (the late Donna) and 8 grandchildren and 7 great-grandchildren. He was the brother of Lucille Yacino (Richard) of Cumberland and the late Muriel Pelissier (the late Roland). He is also survived by many nieces and nephews and their families.
Normand’s funeral will be Wednesday at 9:00 am from the Menard-Lacouture Funeral Home, 127 Carrington Ave. Woonsocket followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00 am in St. James Church, Division St. Manville. Burial with military honors in St. James Cemetery will be private at a later date. Visiting hours are Tuesday from 4-7 pm. In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made to New Beginnings Inc. 323 Rathbun St. Woonsocket, RI. 02895.
www.menardfuneralhome.com