Robert J. “Bob” Fontaine, Sr., 94, a long-time resident of West Boylston, passed away on Wednesday, November 12, 2014, at Worcester Rehabilitation Center, after a short illness. His loving wife of seventy-one years, June M. (LaBuff) Fontaine, predeceased him on December 18, 2012.

Robert is survived by two children; his daughter, Judith Doherty, with whom he lived and was his primary care-giver; and a son, Robert J. Fontaine, Jr. and his wife Edna of Whitinsville; five grandchildren, Sean, Timothy, Daniel, Robby, and Nancy-Jean; eight great grandchildren, who were the pride of his life; many nieces and nephews. Robert was born in Worcester and was the last surviving of sixteen children, born to the late, John B. and Eugenie (LaCroix) Fontaine; upon his mother’s death, his father remarried Rose Fontaine, who raised all the Fontaine children as her own.

He worked for many years as a welder and was a long-time member and former Commander of the former V.F.W. Post 6907 in West Boylston; and the Harold N. Keith Post 204, American Legion. He enjoyed playing Santa for friends and family and was a member of Our Lady of Good Counsel Church in West Boylston.

Robert served his nation proudly, in the United States Navy, during World War II. Following his service in the Navy, he served in the Massachusetts State Guard.

His family would like to thank all of the “angels” at Summit Health Care on East Mountain Street, for their care and compassion.

Calling hours for Robert will be held on Sunday, November 16, from 3 p.m. until 6 p.m. in MERCADANTE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL, 370 Plantation Street, Worcester. His Funeral will be held on Monday, November 17, from the funeral home with a Mass at 10 a.m. in Our Lady of Good Counsel Church, 111 Worcester Street, West Boylston, MA 01583.