Richard L. Lavasseur Sr. 61, of Franklin, died Monday October 26, 2009 at home surrounded by his family, following a brief illness. He was the husband of Denise J. (Dion) Lavasseur.
Born February 23, 1948 in Boston, a son of Dorothy A. (Ryan) Lavasseur of Ebden, Maine and the late Richard Lavasseur, he had been a resident of Franklin for over 17 years and previously lived in Norton.
He was raised and educated in Norton, and was working as a heavy equipment operator for Marinella Construction in Franklin.
Mr. Lavasseur served his country proudly, in the United States Army during the Vietnam War, and attained the rank of Private 2nd class, he was awarded the Army Commendation Medal, the National Defense Service Medal, the Vietnam Service Medal, and the Vietnam Campaign Medal with 3 Overseas Bars and was also an Expert Marksman, he was honorably discharged in May 1970.
His interests included spending time with his family, watching his sons race their cars at Seekonk Speedway, NASCAR, and the New England Patriots.
In addition to his wife of 39 years, and mother, he is survived by four sons, Richard L. Lavasseur Jr. of New Hampshire, Robert M. and Randy L. Lavasseur both of Franklin, Ryan J. Lavasseur of Hopedale, a daughter Wendy J. Maraggio and her husband John of Douglas, a brother Ronald G. Lavasseur of Maine, three sisters Sandra Enos and her husband James of Maine, Donna Finn of Wareham and Michelle Wheeler of Worcester. Also surviving are his grandchildren Paige & Richard L. Lavasseur 3rd and John & Joseph Maraggio.
Relatives and friends are invited to attend his funeral with Military Honors Thursday Oct. 29th, at 11AM in the Charles F. Oteri & Son Franklin Funeral Home 33 Cottage St. Franklin (www.franklinfuneral.com). Interment will follow at the Massachusetts National Cemetery, Bourne.
Calling hours are Wednesday from 4-8PM.
Due to floral limitations at the cemetery, donations in his memory may be sent to Vietnam Veterans of America 8605 Cameron St. Silver Spring, MD 20910 would be appreciated.