GARDINER - Roland J. Lamothe, 84, a loving husband, great father, and well-loved friend to many, passed away unexpectedly at home on September 1, 2026, with his devoted wife by his side, after a period of declining health.

He was born on September 16, 1941, in Saint-Jean-de-la-Lande, New Brunswick, Canda to Arthur and Antoinette (Berube) Lamothe and at 5 years old emigrated to Maine. He was proud to become a U.S. citizen and obtain his high school diploma before his children graduated. He held many jobs starting at an early age, including working in the woods and for Potter’s mill in Whitefield and also lived with the Fendersons, who became like a second family. He also worked for Caldwell’s filling station and delivered for Cushman’s Bakery, among other places.

Roland went on to work in the heating oil industry, becoming an oil burner serviceman.  He was known as a dedicated, skilled and reliable technician, including at Rideout Oil Co., which became Stone & Cooper, which then became Webber Oil and also at Augusta Fuel Co. He continued to service some customers’ heating systems in retirement. His strong work ethic ensured comfort and warmth for many, a testament to his practical and helpful nature, and he also leaves a legacy of having mentored many junior employees.

He was predeceased by his parents and three siblings, Claude and George Lamothe and Fred DeMerchant.

He is survived by his siblings Paul, Mario and Jackie Lamothe and Irene Bourque.

Roland is also survived by his beloved wife of 65 years, Katherine (Small) Lamothe of Gardiner, who became his tireless and very devoted caregiver in recent years.

He is also survived by his three sons, Arthur (wife Kathy) (grandchildren Joel & Matt Soucie and Kimberlee Hamilton); R. Joseph (wife Sharon) (grandchildren Tony & Erika); Jan (spouse Don); and one great-grandchild, Sloane Soucie.

He found pleasure in the outdoors, camping, snowmobiling, gardening (including having won some blue ribbons), fishing and hunting.  He also enjoyed traveling with his wife and family, on several occasions involving three generations, including having traveled to most of the fifty states, the Canadian provinces, a few cruises, and Europe.

His presence will be deeply missed by his family and friends. He has left an indelible mark on the hearts of his loved ones and will be remembered for his kind nature and the warmth he brought into the lives of others.

Visting Hours will be Sunday, September 13, from 2:00-4:00 pm, at Staples Funeral Home, 53 Brunswick Avenue, Gardiner. Private interment will be held in Libby Hill Cemetery, Gardiner.

Arrangements and guidance are in the care of Staples Funeral Home and Cremation Care, 53 Brunswick Avenue, Gardiner, Maine.

Condolences, memories, and photos may be shared with the family on the obituary page of the Staples Funeral Home website, www.staplesfuneralhome.com