Roger J. Bechard

LOWELL - Roger J. Bechard, age 75, a lifelong resident of Lowell died Sunday, July 1, 2018 at his home. He was the beloved husband of Dolores C. (Fortin) Bechard, to whom he was married for 54 years.

He was born in Lowell on June 12, 1943, and was a son of the late Ernest and Laura (Scott) Bechard. He received his education in Lowell schools and was a graduate of Lowell High School.

Roger proudly served in the United States Army National Guard.

Prior to his retirement, he was employed for 27 years as a Deputy Sheriff Corrections Officer for the Middlesex County Sheriff's Department.

Roger and his wife Dolores bred and raised Welsh Corgis for many years. He loved all of his Corgis, although the late Carla always held a special place in his heart.

He was a member of the Pembroke Welsh Corgi Club of America, the Mayflower PWCC, and the Tyngsboro Sportsmen's Club.

Roger enjoyed hunting, fishing, attending his grandchildren's sporting events, working in the yard, and a good cigar. His great joy however, came from spending time in the company of his loving family.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by his son and daughter-in-law, Robert and Christine Bechard of Windham, NH; his daughter and son-in-law, Suzanne and Mark Colonna of Methuen; his five grandchildren, Taylor Bechard, Natalie Colonna, Mason Bechard, Camryn Colonna, and Christopher "CJ" Colonna; a sister, Barbara Bartlett and her husband Albert of Punta Gorda, FL; two brothers-in-law, Jean "Gino" Roy of Lowell and Donald Fortin of Charlton; and many nieces and nephews. He was also the brother of the late Richard Bechard and the late Patricia Roy.

ARRANGEMENTS - Relatives and friends are invited to attend Roger's Life Celebration at the MCKENNA-OUELLETTE FUNERAL HOME, 327 Hildreth Street, Lowell on Friday from 2:00 PM until 6:30 PM followed by his Funeral Service at 6:30 PM at the funeral home. Burial is private. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Roger's memory to Toys For Tots, 36 MacArthur Ave, Bldg. 686, Devens, MA 01434. For condolences and directions please visit www.mckennaouellette.com.