Lorraine Therese (Basque) Rousseau, a devoted wife, loving mother, cherished grandmother, and great-grandmother, peacefully passed away on June 20, 2023, surrounded by her family. She was 89 years old. Lorraine's husband, Frank, who preceded her in death on February 6, 2023, was her lifelong partner and the love of her life who would have celebrated their 70th wedding anniversary this July 4th. They had shared a remarkable journey, raising their four children in a loving home in Lunenburg.
Lorraine possessed an exceptional ability to give love, guidance and create beautiful memories for her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Her nurturing spirit and unwavering support will forever remain in their hearts. Lorraine was an amazing multitasker, readily taking on any project with meticulous attention to detail. Her dedication and commitment were evident in her role as City Clerk of Fitchburg, a position she held for many years until her retirement in 2001.
During her tenure, Lorraine served the mayors, city council members, and residents of Fitchburg with utmost dedication. Additionally, she became a Justice of the Peace, officiating countless personalized weddings for couples. Lorraine also served as President of the BPW (Business and Professional Women's Club) in Fitchburg, a testament to her leadership qualities and commitment to empowering women in the community.
Beyond her accomplishments, Lorraine found immense joy in tending to their vibrant gardens, embracing their time on their boat on Lake Winnipesaukee, and embarking on delightful vacations with her beloved husband. The Rousseau family celebrations and vacations took on special memories for Lorraine and Frank.
She is survived by her loving children, David and his wife, Gail (Vaillancourt) of Fitchburg, Joyce Fraine and Denis of Bellingham, and Karen and her husband, Jeff Norton of Marshfield. Lorraine leaves six grandchildren who already miss her dearly, Sarah Martin, Meagan Rousseau, Andrew Fraine, Mallory McCarthy, Laura Sastre, and Olivia Magalhaes. Lorraine is also survived by ten great-grandchildren, Cameron, Carter, Coletta, Nathan, Landon, Leo, Elowyn, Summer, Margaux, and Miguel. Lorraine also leaves her brother, Edmond Basque of Leominster. Lorraine is predeceased by her son, Mark, who passed in 1981, sisters Marguerite Emma and Doris Lortie, brother Lionel Basque, and her much-loved parents, Anthony and Alma Basque.
On Friday, June 30, 2023, visitors are invited to pay their respects from 9:30 am to 11:00 am at Brandon Funeral Home at 305 Wanoosnoc Rd., Fitchburg. Following the visitation, a funeral mass will commence at 11:30 am at the family's cherished parish, Our Lady of the Lake, at 1400 Main St., Leominster.
A private burial service will be at the South Cemetery in Lunenburg at a later date, where Lorraine and Frank will join their son, Mark, in their final resting place.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Alzheimer's Association at ALZ.org.
Kevin J. Mack, Walter C. Taylor, Melissa A. McQuaid, Funeral Directors
Friday, June 30, 2023
9:30 - 11:00 am (Eastern time)
Brandon Funeral Home
Friday, June 30, 2023
11:30am - 12:30 pm (Eastern time)
Our Lady of the Lake Church
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