Francis A. d'Entremont

Francis A. d'Entremont, 88, of Gardner, died peacefully Tuesday, January 21, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of service, dedication, and love. 

Born in Gardner on April 26, 1936, he was the son of the late Edward C. and Victoria E. d'Entremont. Fran was a true servant to others, dedicating his life to making the world a better place through his unwavering commitment to helping those in need. As a United States Army Veteran, Fran served as a Military Police Officer from 1953 to 1956, including an active duty tour in Korea. His selfless service earned him the Good Conduct Medal and the National Defense Service Medal.

Fran was a dedicated firefighter for the City of Gardner for 28 years, retiring in 1994. Throughout his career, he was a certified CPR and first responder instructor for the fire department and one of Gardner’s first Certified Emergency Medical Technicians. He continued his work as an EMT with Wood’s Ambulance of Gardner for 26 years, providing care and comfort to countless individuals. In his retirement, Fran used his skills to work as an electrician for Smith's Electronics in Winchendon and owned a private plowing company, serving both commercial and residential properties.

Francis was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather whose love for his family was the heart of his life. He truly cherished every moment spent with his loved ones, creating lasting memories through family camping trips and days spent on his boat fishing. Fran was also a skilled carpenter, crafting beautiful furniture and unique trinkets with his hands. His passion for adventure extended to competitive Skeet Shooting at the Royalston Fish and Game Club and was known for making his own ammunition. As an instructor for High Rescue Rope Rescue courses, Fran shared his expertise with others, demonstrating his commitment to teaching and helping those in need. Fran shared a deep bond with his best friend, Steve Cormier of Gardner, with whom he shared many common interests in his career, volunteer efforts, and hobbies. Their friendship was a source of great joy and mutual respect.

Francis was actively involved in his faith from a very young age. He began as an altar boy at Holy Rosary Church in Gardner, where he spent his early years. Later in life, he became a dedicated member of Bethany Baptist Church in Gardner, where he served as a weekly usher. He was also a Constable for Worcester County, a member of the Gardner Lions Club, and Ovila Case VFW Post 905 of Gardner, where he served as a member of its honor guard. Alongside his late wife, Paula, Fran was a proud founder and organizer of the annual Gardner Relay for Life, benefiting the American Cancer Society. Their unwavering commitment to civic service and their shared passion for improving their community earned them countless awards and accolades, and the respect and admiration of all who knew them.

Francis is survived by two daughters, Elizabeth J. Viens of Royalston and Ruth C. d'Entremont of Cary, NC; three grandchildren, Justin Viens, Alexandria (Beau) Forgues, and Cameron (Angela Wojdak) Viens; two great-grandchildren, Addison Kay Viens and Dutton Thomas Forgues; several nieces, nephews, and cousins.

He was predeceased by the love of his life of 61 years, Paula K. (Smith) d'Entremont, who died in 2023; his sisters, Alice Cote and Theresa E. McKean; and his brother, Edward d'Entremont. 

Fran’s memory will live on in the hearts of his children, grandchildren, and all who were blessed to call him family and friend. His love and presence will be profoundly missed, but his legacy will continue to inspire those who knew him.

Calling Hours will be held Friday, January 31, 2025, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. in the Boucher Funeral Home, Inc., 110 Nichols Street, Gardner, MA.

Graveside Services with Military Honors will be held Saturday, February 1, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. in Woodside Cemetery, Narrows Road, Westminster, MA. Funeral Services will follow at 12:00 p.m. at Bethany Baptist Church, 72 Ryan Street, Gardner, MA, with a reception to follow. 

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society, Attn: Relay For Life Greater Gardner - 6AYVG9, PO Box 2438, Kennesaw, GA 30156. Please reference in memory of Francis A. d'Entremont.