Van Buren--- Roland L. Laverdiere, 89, died Monday, May 1, 2017, following a long illness. He was born December 28, 1927 in Van Buren, a son of the late Joseph and Amelia (Levesque) Laverdiere.

Roland worked at many local potato farms in the Van Buren area for many years. He was an avid vegetable and flower gardener which he loved to share with his family and friends. He also enjoyed spending his time fishing the many waters around the St. John Valley. He was a life-long parishioner of St. Bruno-St. Remi Church.

Roland's family wishes to extend their great appreciation to the staff of Borderview Rehab and Living Center, Van Buren, for their dedicated care, support and reassurances during such a difficult time.

He is survived by: his wife of 42 years, Matilda (Cook) Laverdiere of Van Buren; four sons, Gerard Laverdiere of Bristol, CT, John Laverdiere of Van Buren, Norman Laverdiere and Donald Laverdiere, both of St. Francis; three daughters, Theresa Walden of Bristol, CT, Donna Norte and her husband Alfredo of Ellington, CT and Jeannine Garrison of Colchester, CT; two sisters, Bernadette Cormier of Van Buren and Cecile Klaneski of Myrtle Beach, SC; four grandchildren; two great grandchildren; his beloved dog, Cinnamon; and many nieces and nephews.

Besides his parents, Roland is predeceased by his first wife, Gemma (Berube) Laverdiere in 1964, a son Stephen in 1957, and a brother, Gerard Laverdiere.

A graveside service will be celebrated at 10 AM on Saturday, June 3, 2017 at St. Bruno Cemetery, Van Buren. There will be no visiting hours. Arrangements are a service of Lajoie Funeral Home, 118 High St., Van Buren. To share condolences online, please visit www.LajoieFuneralHome.com