1942
2017
The strong and skilled hands of a hard worker have become still with the unexpected passing of Roger H. Bienvenu 75, of Old Walpole Road, Surry, NH, on Thursday, October 26, 2017 at the Cheshire Medical Center / Dartmouth Hitchcock, Keene, NH.
His parents, Henri and Noella (Messier) Bienvenu, proudly welcomed their son into the world on May 3, 1942 in Barre, Vermont.
Roger grew up in Barre and was a 1960 graduate of Marian High School in Barre, and a graduate of the VT Technical College, receiving an associate degree in electronics.
He proudly served his country as an Army veteran, and was stationed in Hawaii where he was responsible for the upkeep and repair of the Nike Missile Radar System based on a mountain in Hawaii.
Roger's talent in working with his hands lent him to his work career of over 25 years as a mainframe computer customer engineer with IBM in Keene. The love for working with his hands encompassed his personal life as well, building his home and completing every aspect of the project from the bottom up, including the plumbing and electrical components as well. He was an accomplished furniture maker and could always be found fixing things for the many who knew of his talents as a "jack of all trades".
Roger also enjoyed working the land, developing and working his own apple orchard, offering for families to enjoy picking their own apples. He was always concerned with matters of the land and of forestry.
A forty year resident of Surry, Roger joined the Surry Volunteer Fire Department in 1978 and held several positions with the department including that of Deputy Chief. He also served a 3-year term as Selectman with the Town of Surry.
Roger was an active member of the Keene Senior Center and was also a longtime member of the Monadnock Squares.
He will be greatly missed by many, especially his wife of 53 years, Elaine D. (Rudd) Bienvenu of Surry; his two children, Tim Bienvenu of Surry and Wendy Bienvenu of Keene; three sisters-in-law, Edith Bosselait of Laconia, NH, Evelyn Sleeper of Laconia, Elsie Boisvert of Barre; a brother-in-law, E. Robert Rudd, of Groton, VT; and several nieces and nephew. He was predeceased by a brother, Paul Bienvenu and two sisters, Yvette Ladd and Helen Roberts.
A celebration of Roger's life will be held on Sunday, November 5, 2017 from 2:00 to 4:00PM at the Surry Town Hall, Village Road, Surry. Burial with military honors in the Village Cemetery, Surry, will be private.
In lieu of flowers, for those who wish, donations may be made in Mr. Bienvenu's memory to the Surry Volunteer Fire Department, c/o Chief Josh Brooks, 444 Route 12A, Surry, NH 03431, or to the Keene Senior Center, 70 Court Street, Keene, NH 03431.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Sponsored by Foley Funeral Home.
6 Entries
December 19, 2017
Renee Baker
Aunt Elaine, Tim and Wendy, I am so sorry and surprised to hear of Uncle Roger's passing. I really never had much opportunity to be around him, but what I did experience was a kind and gentle soul, full of strength. Sending loving prayers and comfort to you all. I remember how much my Mother loved this picture of days gone by. I know he had a warm welcoming from all of the family. My love to you always, Renee
November 5, 2017
Bruce Bohannon
Elaine, I will miss Rogers smile and personality. I always enjoyed talking to him whether it was at Mickey D's for coffee and Tea or helping him at the Senior Center with the computers. My sympathies go out to you and your family.
November 4, 2017
Linda & Bob Bergevin
Elaine, Tim, Wendy and family: There was never a time when you would meet Roger that a broad grin wouldn't cross his face and he would stop to take time to chat! And, he did love to chat! He was one of the first people we met when moving to Surry many years ago, and was so much a part of the fabric of our townscape. Our girls loved to visit the Apple Shed orchard and picnic there in such a well-tended lot! We extend our deepest sympathy to you all -- please know this wonderful man will be sorely missed.
November 4, 2017
Brenda Anderson
My deepest sympathies for your family. I will always remember how wonderful Roger was to me and my sons. We were fortunate enough to have spent time with you. He was a generous and kind man. He never missed a teaching moment when it came along. He bought me a bandsaw for xmas! I will never forget that.
November 1, 2017
Barry Rock
Roger, I remember fondly our high school days at Marian High School in Barre, you, me and Herby Elmer. I especially remember all of your efforts to make our Junior Prom special, including creating a small indoor pond, complete with a living trout. Your kindness and willingness to lend a hand to anyone in need of support will be sorely missed.Sincerely, Barry Rock, Durham, NH
October 30, 2017
Don & Sally-Ann Bachelder
Please accept our deepest sympathies. Roger
will always be remembered as a friend and a great dancer on the square dance floor.
Sincerely,
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