Lawrence A. Vaillette

Lawrence A. Vaillette, born on January 25, 1924, in Leominster, MA, peacefully concluded his life journey on October 28, 2023, reuniting with his beloved wife, Gladys (Bouvier) Vaillette, who had predeceased him. He is also predeceased by a daughter, Mary A. Vaillette, who sadly passed away at birth.

Lawrence's life revolved around two fundamental pillars: family and work. His legacy of resilience and unwavering dedication will forever be cherished by those fortunate enough to have known him.

He was the son of Wilfred and Delia (Cote) Vaillette and one of eleven children. He is predeceased by his siblings Bernard, Edgar, Wilfred, Roger, Ernest, Paul, Robert, Edward, Lena Baron, and Madeline Syria.

Lawrence's childhood in Leominster involved shared responsibilities on the family farm and joyful hours spent playing pond hockey. He left St. Bernard High School to serve in the US Navy during World War II, demonstrating patriotism and bravery alongside his six siblings. His commitment to his country remained steadfast. His high school sweetheart, Gladys, became his
beloved wife of over 65 years.

Lawrence enjoyed a long and distinguished career as an electrician, including his work with Eyles and Vaillette Electric before retirement. To him, work was not merely a duty but a form of therapy. He was constantly immersed in a project and was a true "MacGyver," finding value in everything. He used his skills to build multiple homes, including the cherished family camp on Lake Shirley. This tranquil haven became his favorite place, where he spent summers surrounded by family, engaging in activities such as swimming, sailing, bocce, and horseshoes.

His joy was boundless when in the company of friends and family at the camp. Lawrence found solace and joy in the great outdoors, rooted in his profound connection to the land, having grown up on a farm. His avid passion for gardening, rooted in those early years, remained a lifelong pursuit. He always prioritized his health and exercise. In his later years, he developed a passion for blueberry picking. In 2019, Leominster High School honored him with an honorary high school degree. Known for being a man of few words in his later years, Lawrence continued working on projects and tending to his garden well into his 90s.

Lawrence is survived by his devoted son, Lawrence J. Vaillette, and grandsons, Zachary and Tyler, as well as numerous nieces and nephews. Lawrence is also predeceased by his daughter-in-law, Kathleen (Walsh) Vaillette.

A graveside service in Lawrence's honor will be held on Saturday, November 11, 2023, at 11:00 a.m., at St. Cecilia's Cemetery, 99 Saint Cecilia Street, Leominster, Massachusetts, 01453.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made in his name to the Montachusett Veterans Outreach, 268 Central Street, Gardner, MA 01440.

The Simard Funeral Home, located at 14 Walker Street, Leominster, MA 01453, has been entrusted with Lawrence's funeral arrangements.

To leave an online condolence, please visit www.mackfamilyfh.com.

Kevin J. Mack, Walter C. Taylor, and Melissa A. McQuaid, Funeral Directors.