AUGUSTA — Roger G. LaBrecque, 85, of Waterville, passed away at the Togus VA Hospital on July 13, with his loving family by his side.

He was born on Feb. 15, 1926, in Brunswick, a son of the late Lucien V. and Blanche (Bernier) LaBrecque. Roger attended St. John School in Brunswick, Bliss College in Lewiston and Thomas College in Waterville. Roger served his country in the U.S. Army during World War II in the Battle of the Bulge; he received the Purple Heart, European African Middle Eastern Campaign Medal, Good Conduct Medal and the WWII Victory Medal.

He worked as an accountant for Keyes Fibre Co. until his retirement in 1989; as well as a part-time bookkeeper for Dr. Joseph J. Hiebel. He was a member of the American Legion. He was a 25-year member of the National Association of Accountants, where he was president in 1970 with 25 years of perfect attendance; and given Member of the Year Award in 1993.

Roger was a gifted musician who could spontaneously translate emotions into music. He played with the “Three Notes” band for many years at weddings and other joyous occasions.

He often volunteered to perform with his accordion, keyboard or piano at local nursing homes, playing songs from the 1940s to the 1960s era. He took pride in knowing that his music could make the elderly smile, remember the good times, and tap along from their wheelchairs. There would always be music at the large family gatherings or special events of the year. His music may be heard by going to his website at http://home.myfairpoint.net/mrpianoman/.

Roger is survived by his loving wife, Theresa (Bard) LaBrecque of Waterville; two daughters, Marianne Poirier and husband, Harold, of Waterville and Patricia McAtee and husband, Bob, of Wales; a son, David LaBrecque and wife, Kathy, of Orono; six grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; as well as several stepgrandchildren and stepgreat-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.

Roger was predeceased by his parents; a daughter, Carmella Lanteigne in 1970; three brothers, Raymond, Clement and Marcel LaBrecque; and a sister, Lorraine Smith.