Roland Joseph Blain

Roland Joseph Blain, 91 of Worcester, formerly of Grosvenordale, CT, passed away peacefully on Sunday, August 18, 2013 at home surrounded by his loving family. Roland's wife of fifty-two years, Lillian M. (LeMay) Blain passed away in 1995. He is survived by his two daughters, Nancy A. Dalbec and her husband Ronald of Marlborough and Janice A. Blain of Worcester with whom he lived; four grandchildren, Elisabeth, Joseph, Jacob and Aaron; three great grandchildren, Isabella, Samantha and Nathan; many nieces and nephews. He is predeceased by his two brothers, Roger and Romeo Blain. Roland was born and raised in Grosvenordale, Connecticut, son of the late Joseph and Elise (Goyette) Blain. He graduated from Tourtellotte Memorial High School. Roland served his country during WWII in the United States Army as military police. Roland was raised on the Blain Family Farm in Connecticut and worked as a farmer till he moved to Worcester in 1953. He worked for Cincinnati Milacron/ Heald Machine for over thirty years retiring in 1982. After his retirement, he worked part-time at the former Spag's in Shrewsbury. Roland was a member of the former Holy Name of Jesus Church then became a member of Christ the King Church, Worcester in his later years. Roland was also an Eagle Scout and a member of the Knights of Columbus. He loved all sports and was in a bowling league. Roland was very interested in genealogy. He spent many years researching his family history and took many trips to Canada with his family. Roland organized the family reunions every year at the Blain Farmstead. Roland's greatest enjoyment in life was his family but most importantly were his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. They were his pride and joy. Services for Roland will be held Thursday, August 22, 2013 from the MERCADANTE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL, 370 Plantation St., Worcester with a Mass at 11:00 a.m.in Christ the King Church, 1052 Pleasant St. Burial alongside his wife will follow in Worcester County Memorial Park, Paxton. A period of calling hours will be held on Wednesday, August 21st from 5-8 p.m. in the funeral home. Flowers are welcome or memorial contributions can be made to: VNA Care Network & Hospice, Development Office, 199 Rosewood Drive, Suite 180, Danvers, MA 01923. To share your thoughts and memories of Roland, please visit his personal guestbook at: mercadantefuneral.com.