Online Obituaries

Roger William Durand, 78, passed away peacefully at home in Springfield, MA, on January 9, 2025, surrounded by his loving wife, Barbara, and family. Born in Springfield to Rene and Margery Durand, he was a lifelong resident and proud of his hometown. After graduating from Putnam High School, Roger served in the U.S. Army during the Cold War, stationed in Bamberg, Germany, an experience he held dear throughout his life.

Roger had a fulfilling career as a machinist, working in local machine shops until his retirement in 2014 from Mitchell Machine. He is survived by his wife of 40 years, Barbara; son Roger and his wife, Edna; stepsons Frank and Richard; sisters Marilyn Dibernardo, and Cathy Champigny (Jerry); grandchildren Matthew and Christine; and great-grandson Brayden. Roger’s kindness and sense of humor will be missed by all who knew him.

A lover of history, travel, and family, Roger cherished his trips across the U.S. and overseas, especially the time spent in Shinnston, West Virginia, where he had many happy memories from childhood with family and cousins. He was an avid golfer and a loyal New York Yankees fan, and had a great love for animals, spending many years caring for his dogs, whose loyalty and companionship brought him much joy. While Roger may have been a man of few words, his quiet presence spoke volumes. His dry sense of humor and quick wit effortlessly brought laughter to anyone that experienced it. He had a way of making others feel welcome with his friendly demeanor, never seeking attention but always offering kindness.

Barbara, his devoted wife, described him as “such a gentleman,” a sentiment shared by all who knew him. Roger’s legacy of loyalty, respect, and quiet compassion will live on in the hearts of his family and friends.

A memorial service will be held at the Massachusetts Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Agawam on January 21, 2025, at 3:00 pm.