MIDDLETOWN, Conn. — Roland Simard, 70, recently of Church Street, Middletown, and a longtime resident of Bridgeport, passed away Wednesday, March 16, surrounded by family after a five year courageous battle with cancer.

Roland, the son of the late Ronaldo and Albina (Pelletier) Simard, was born Dec. 29, 1940, in Auburn. Roland graduated from Edward Little High School of Auburn in 1959, and was class president his sophomore, junior and senior years. He then attended Bates College in Lewiston and earned a degree in economics.

Immediately after college, Roland enlisted in the U.S. Army and served his country for three years during the Vietnam War. He then began a successful career managing Commercial Real Estate for numerous private investors.

He is survived by his three siblings, Loraine Livingston and her husband, Frank, of East Hampton, Conn., Janine Reny and her husband, Paul, of Old Orchard Beach and Roger Simard and his wife, Tonia, of Poland Spring; his good friends, Patty and Jerry Wallach of Meriden, Conn., and Hugh Jackson of Hartford, Conn.; several nieces and nephews; and his dog and faithful companion, Lucky.

Roland was predeceased by his parents, Ronaldo and Albina; and his dear nephew, Kenny.

To share memories or express condolences online please visit www.biegafuneralhome.com.