Rene Rocheleau

HIGHGATE– It is with great sadness that our family announces the passing of Rene E. Rocheleau. He passed away on Wednesday, November 5, 2025, at the age of 85, surrounded by his loving children in the family home.

Rene is survived by his children, Leisa Rocheleau of Gibsonville, NC, Mark Rocheleau and his wife Leslie of Swanton, VT, Paul Rocheleau and his wife Jennifer of Georgia, VT, and David Rocheleau and his husband Richard of Georgia, VT; 8 grandchildren: Kyle, Mikaela, Troy, Kennedei, Hailee, Forrester, Kourtnei, and Lucas; 11 great-grandchildren: Blake, Bryce, Madisyn, Layla, Aubrilyn, Ezekiel, Layne, Adrian, Elena, Hudson, and Paisley; his brother, Bernard (Ann Marie), and their children; several nieces, nephews, and cousins, as well as a very special sister-in-law, Jean Elliott.

He was preceded in death by the love of his life, Judy, with whom he shared an inseparable 55-year journey, including almost five decades of marriage, his sister Armelle Sullivan, and his brothers, Ulrich 'Rush' and Paul 'Aime' Rocheleau.

Quiet and reserved, Rene was the patient anchor of his family. Rene approached life in a straightforward, cut and dry manner, but his quiet patience ensured his perspective was always delivered with understanding. He was an intelligent man who remained a lifelong learner with a deep love for history and science, often keeping the family informed (sometimes at volume 50) through his dedicated viewing of the history and science channels.

Rene's dedication and loyalty were evident throughout his life. Professionally, he had a distinguished career that spanned over 40 years at Mylan Technologies, where he continued working well into his 70s. That same sense of commitment defined his role at home. As a father and husband, he was the steady, behind-the-scenes supporter, always making sure his family was well cared for.

Though reserved, Rene possessed a playful side, consistently armed with a steady stream of dad jokes that he often found more amusing than anyone else. His keen eye for detail and patience shone through his intricate models of ships and trains, each crafted with care. Rene will be remembered for the unwavering loyalty and generous spirit that defined him, but what those closest will remember most is his clear intelligence and reliable support that made him the rock and foundation of his family.

Rene was a deeply patriotic man whose commitment began when he proudly served his country in the United States Navy in the late 1950s and early 1960s. During his service, he earned the Good Conduct Medal, the National Defense Service Medal, and the Vietnam Service Medal.

Following his active duty, Rene channeled his loyalty into lifelong service to his fellow veterans through the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW). He was known for his tireless commitment, holding multiple offices at the local, district, state, and even national levels. His dedication culminated in significant leadership roles, including serving as the State Commander (1999–2000) and later as a National Council Member (2006–2008). Through his work with the VFW, Rene continued to serve his country by ensuring that veterans and their families were cared for and honored.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, November 13, 2025, from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM at The Goss Life Celebration Home, 89 Grand Ave., Swanton, VT 05488. A Burial, with full military honors will immediately follow at Riverside Cemetery, where Rene will be interred with his wife, Judy.

Following the service, friends and family are warmly invited to gather at the Swanton VFW Post 778 for light refreshments and a time of fellowship and remembrance.

Condolences, photos and favorite memories may be shared through www.gossfs.com