“With a twinkle in his eye and a mischievous grin his loving sense of humor will forever be instilled is our hearts”

VANCOUVER, Wash. — Roma Gerard Laperle, 86, passed away peacefully at home on July 19. He made his final journey the way he wanted to. His humor ever present, surrounded by his loved ones.

Roma was born in Rumford, June 3, 1925, to Alfred and Fabiola (Cote) Laperle. He grew up on a farm in South Rumford and developed a work ethic that remained instilled in him throughout his life. He attended Stephens High School and upon graduation he enrolled in the Merchant Marines. He served as a radio operator and earned the rank second lieutenant. After three years of service, he received an honorable discharge.

Roma and his brother, Delma owned and operated Laperle Brothers Memorials. He was also employed by Boise Cascade Paper Co. (formerly Oxford Paper Co.) in Rumford. He transferred to Vancouver, Wash., in 1979. He later retired from Boise with 43 years of service.

Roma was especially active throughout his life. Never one to sit still, he enjoyed dancing, swing music, golf, fishing, gardening and Maine lobster. In his later years, he could be seen sitting in his favorite chair, wearing his worn hat, watching Clark Howard or the Lawrence Welk show. He especially liked to play shuffleboard with his wonderful friends in Lake Worth, Fla., during the winter months.

Among his most favorite pastimes was spending time with his family and friends. All who knew him will have endless memories of his sense of humor and were often at the receiving end of his quick wit, jokes and feisty nature. He was a man that people respected and admired. A generous man with a gentle, contemplative side.

He is survived by his brother, Delma; his daughters, Dorina (Dee) Hopcroft of Putnam, Conn., Donna Laperle (Sheila) of Vancouver, Wash., Lori (John Watson) of Vancouver, Wash.; son, Alan of Vancouver, Wash.; he was blessed with seven grandchildren, Tonya Brock, Stephanie Vece and James Hopcroft of Putnam, Conn., Ashley, Alexandra and C.J. Watson of Vancouver, Wash., Tamara (Jeff) Gunter of Vancouver, Wash.; and four great-grandchildren, Landon Gunter, Alex Mercier, Logan Brock and Aaron Hopcroft.

He was predeceased by his wife, Mary Ann Kezal (1999); son, Jeffrey (1973); brothers, Alva and Donat; and sisters, Leona, Elodia, Rhea and Diana.

Roma was deeply loved by all and will be especially missed.