Roland E. Roux

It is with bittersweet emotions that I acknowledge the passing of my father, Roland Eugene Roux, on December 12, 2024, at the age of 83. He passed away peacefully at Good Samaritan Nursing Home in Sayville, New York.

Roland was born on April 25, 1941, in Lewiston, Maine, to Fernand and Marie (Belisle) Roux. The youngest of five siblings, Roland grew up in a close-knit family. His eldest brother, Gerald Roux, tragically passed away as an infant. Roland shared his life with his surviving siblings, Normand Roux (S.C.), Donald (Elsie) Roux, and Anita (Roux) Langelier (Richard).

From a young age, Roland displayed a love of learning and a zest for life. He attended Lewiston grade schools, participating in local boys' ice hockey leagues. He furthered his education at Catholic prep schools in Maine and Rhode Island, studying under the Brothers of the Sacred Heart. A life-long learner, Roland earned his undergraduate degree at St. Michael’s College in Vermont and the University of Notre Dame in Indiana before receiving his Master’s degree in Education from the University of Pennsylvania.

Roland began his teaching career at Mount St. Charles Academy in Woonsocket, Rhode Island. In 1970, he moved to Long Island, New York, to teach in the public school system. It was during this time, in the spring of 1971, that he met the love of his life and soulmate, Loretta Wilson, while rotating between high schools. The two married on November 20, 1971, and enjoyed a respectful and glorious marriage for over 52 years. Together, they welcomed their only child, Nancy (Roux) Schillizzi, on their first wedding anniversary.

Roland’s love of science evolved into a passion for computer programming, prompting a career change. He worked in the computer industry for Northrop Grumman and later for Chemical Bank, retiring early in the 1990s.

In retirement, Roland embraced life with joy and enthusiasm. He found pleasure in playing golf, traveling with Loretta, and spending time at their home in Stuart, Florida. Annual visits to Walt Disney World brought him immense happiness, as did playing cards with friends.

A man of deep faith, Roland remained active in the Catholic Church throughout his life. He was a dedicated parishioner at St. Ignatius Loyola in Hicksville, NY, and later at Sts. Peter & Paul RC Church in Manorville, NY. His contributions included attending weekly Mass, participating in parish groups, and organizing fundraising programs.

Roland is survived by his daughter, Nancy Schillizzi, and her daughters, Lauraand Anna. He is also survived by his brother, Donald Roux; sisters-in-law, Barbara (Wilson) Barnes and Janet (Wilson) Faltermayer, and her husband, Stephen Faltermayer; as well as numerous nieces and nephews from Maine to New York.

He was predeceased by his beloved wife, Loretta Wilson Roux; his son-in-law, Michael Schillizzi; his siblings, Gerald Roux, Normand Roux, and Anita (Roux) Langelier; brother-in-law, Conrad Moeller; and nephew and niece, Benjamin Barnes and Barbara Anne Barnes.

Roland's legacy is one of love, faith, and kindness. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him. May his soul rest in eternal peace.

A funeral Mass will be held at Sts. Peter & Paul RC Church in Manorville, NY. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Roland’s name to a charity of your choice or to Sts. Peter & Paul’s parish fund.