AUBURN — Robert L. Lachance, 83, of Ferry Road, Lewiston, passed away on Tuesday, March 29, at Clover Manor.

He was born in Lewiston, June 16, 1927, a son of Joseph and Clementine Laroche Lachance. He was a graduate of Lewiston High School, Class of 1945. In the fall of 1946, he enlisted in the U.S. Army and served in the Army of Occupation in Osaka, Japan.

On his return from the service, Robert married his high school sweetheart, Rolande Plourde, at St. Mary’s Church on Sept. 3, 1949. For most of his working years, Mr. Lachance was employed in heavy construction for IP in Jay and retired as foreman at the Otis and Riley mills.

He was an avid sportsman, who enjoyed hunting, fishing and boating. His faithful beagle, Bud, accompanied him on long hikes in his woods on Ferry Road. Robert was a lifetime member of the NRA and was a communicant of Holy Cross Church.

Survivors include his wife of 61 years, Rolande Lachance; one daughter, Gail and husband, Leo Beaucage; one son, SMSgt. John Lachance and wife, Kelly; three grandsons, Craig and wife, Carol, Timothy Beaucage and wife, Daesha and Tristan Lachance; two great-grandsons, Nathan and Evan Beaucage; one stepgranddaughter, Kendra and her husband, Cory Lemons and their three daughters; one brother, Ralph Lachance of Eliot; one sister, Yvette Maillet of Connecticut; and several nieces and nephews.

Robert was predeceased by his son, Gary Lachance, who passed away on Jan. 6, 2010.

The family wishes to thank the staff at Clover Manor, in the Galway Place section, for the excellent care given to Robert.

Condolences and donations may be accessed online at www.albert-burpee.com.