Obituary of J. Eugene DesRoches

Gene DesRoches, a loving husband, father, grandfather, brother and cherished friend to many completed his earthly journey at Hospice House, Fredericton on July 19, 2021. The love of family that constantly surrounded him enabled Gene to leave this life in peace knowing all was well between him and his God. Born at Portage River, NB on December 20, 1943, he was a son of the late Leo and Bertha (Holmes) DesRoches. In addition to his parents, Gene was predeceased by a son, Ronald E. DesRoches in 2019, also siblings Mary, Marie, Yvette, Jane, Theresa and Norman. Gene’s working career was mostly in the Construction Business and upon retirement he partnered with his son Jonathan doing renovations. Working side by side with his son brought much joy to his life. A very caring and devoted family man he passionate about keeping family first above all else. Gene had a profound appreciation for the outdoors and nature, a passion he shared and passed along to his family. His many outdoor expeditions took him far and wide, whether it be fishing, hunting, and horseback riding. He especially enjoyed his golf games. Gene will be remembered as a very humble man, quiet in nature whose actions spoke louder than his words. Gene was a faithful and much loved member of Smythe Street Church, Fredericton. A proud family man at heart, his found his greatest enjoyment being with them. He will be forever loved and missed by his wife, Bonnie L. (Burtt) DesRoches. He also leaves behind three much loved sons, Jonathan DesRoches (Dylan), Donald Cronkhite (Andrea) and Andrew Cronkhite (Natasha), also six amazing and adored grandchildren, Sydney, Katlyn, Abrianna, Matthew, Seporah and Nathanial. Left behind to cherish his memory are siblings, Johnny (Kathy) DesRoches, Joanne Comeau (Rheal), Denise Melvin (Bill) and Angela Levesque. He is also survived by a very special niece, Mangella Green (Stephen) as well as aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and a host of friends. A time of visitation and an opportunity to express condolences to the family will be held at Smythe Street Church, 913 Smythe St., Fredericton on Friday, July 23, 2021 from 12:00 PM Noon to 1:45 PM, followed by a celebration of Gene’s life at 2:00 PM with Pastor Wayne Flowers officiating. Due to the current health restrictions, please contact the funeral home at (506) 458-9170 or by email at mcadams@mcadamsfh.com to register for the service. For those unable to attend, a link for a live stream of the service will be available here on the day of the service at this link: http://www.ssc.church/gene. A private gathering for family and close friends will be held following the service. Gene expressed that those attending his memorial service come dressed casual and "flipflops are fine". The family wish to thank the wonderful and compassionate nurses and staff of Hospice Fredericton for the excellent care Gene received while in their care. For those who wish, memorial donations may be made to Hospice House Fredericton.