Ron "Whitey" Letourneau

Ronald "Whitey” J. Letourneau, 84, of Worcester, passed away on Sunday, May 7th, 2023, in UMass Memorial Medical Center with his loving family at his side.

Whitey was survived by his loving wife, Marie (Rouke) Letourneau of sixty six years, their six children: Michael C. Letourneau and his wife Lisa of Paxton; David W. Letourneau and his longtime companion Rebecca Bleecher of Northampton; Beth A. Letourneau, Brian J. Letourneau, Stephen R. Letourneau and his wife Amy all of Worcester; and Ronald J. Letourneau and his wife Ami of Spencer; eight grandchildren, Nicolette and her husband Jeffrey, Kirsten, Brianna, Hayley, Sage, Vanessa and her husband Ben, Tyler, and Collin; three great-grandchildren: Sophia, Welcome and Eleanor; nieces, nephews, close friends, and extended family.

On December 29th, 1938, Whitey was born the son of the late William J. and Ruth (Jordan) Letourneau. He was predeceased by his sister Joyce Letourneau and leaves his sister Gail Letourneau of Millbury.

Whitey began his active and fulfilled life in Worcester, where he met his childhood sweetheart Marie. He started his career at Yankee Products Company, where he developed many fond memories working alongside his father. His affable personality led him to work at Ameripride Services. Inc. for over 35 years, leading the customer service and retention team. He cherished his days in the field selling services and building valued customer relationships.  

Aside from his passion for his job, he enjoyed being with his family. Throughout the years, Whitey attended numerous sporting events for his children or grandchildren, most specifically baseball and swimming. He was the past president of Westside Babe Ruth Baseball League. During the years, there weren’t many days that you didn’t see Whitey on the field coaching one of his children or grandchildren for Jesse Burkett Little or Minor Baseball Leagues or Senior Babe Ruth.

When the family’s schedule wasn't packed with baseball games, they would travel the East Coast for swim meets. He looked forward to spending quality time with his family at the annual Memorial Day camping trip at Myles Standish State Forest run by the Worcester Swim Club. There, he created many memories with his wife and children, either sharing stories around the campfire, participating in tug-of-war games on the beach or just dancing under the stars.

He was a devoted and loving grandfather to his eight grandchildren. Whether it was hot sunny days at their house by the pool or cookouts and fishing at the family camp in Auburn, Whitey always enjoyed spending time with them. Most recently, Whitey also cherished the moments he shared with his three great-grandchildren.

As an ardent car lover, his passion for vintage cars led him and Marie to purchase and fully restore a 1963 Ford Thunder Bird. Throughout the years, Whitey and Marie thoroughly enjoyed participating in and spectating at regional car shows.

Whitey was a friend to all. His charismatic energy led him to develop many treasured relationships throughout his life, especially his lifelong friend, Richie McGinn.

Relatives and friends are invited to calling hours on Friday, May 12^th from 4-7 pm in the MERCADANTE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL, 370 Plantation St., Worcester. Services will be held on Saturday, May 13, 2023 with a procession departing at 9:40 am from the funeral home to Blessed Sacrament Church, 555 Pleasant St., Worcester where his funeral Mass will be celebrated at 10:00 am.  Burial will follow in Saint John’s Cemetery, Worcester.  In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to: St. John’s Food for the Poor Program, 44 Temple Street, Worcester, MA  01604.