GAGNON, Roland Joseph “Rolly”
The family announces with profound sorrow the sudden passing of Roland “Rolly” Gagnon at his home in Noëlville on Sunday, November 9, 2025, at the age of 64.
Cherished husband and lifelong companion of Linda (née Gauthier) Gagnon of Noëlville. Beloved son of Cécile (née Dubé) Gagnon and of the late Ernest Gagnon of Port Hardy, B.C. Loving father of Roger (Marina), Roxanne Lord, both of Noëlville, and Richard (Mélanie Grandmont) of Chelmsford. Dear brother of Marcel (Sharon Hughes) of Barrie, Alfred (Angela Taylor) of Port Hardy, B.C., Jean (Maureen Gunderson) of Lethbridge, AB, and Robert (Joli) of Port Hardy, B.C. Predeceased by his brother Gérald (Aline) of Algoma Mills. Cherished grandfather of Tessa, Jayden, Levi, Kaylee, Kate, Scarlett, and Quentin.
Rolly was a man whose heart beat for his family, friends and his community. His love for his family was boundless; He was their steadfast protector, always ready to lend a hand, meet a need, offer advice, or simply share a good laugh. He brought laughter and light wherever he went with his quick wit, silly jokes and endless stories. He was an entrepreneur from an early age, hard-working, resilient, incredibly intelligent, full of imagination with exceptional problem-solving skills. Rolly was skilled in a multitude of trades, and he especially excelled in the operation of heavy equipment. He could run any piece of equipment with astonishing precision. These skills made it possible for him to turn many of his visions into a reality, including building his shop from the ground up. Rolly’s generous heart and his love for teaching was apparent in his personal and professional life, always ready to share his wealth of knowledge. He often felt compelled, to give of his time and money away generously and had a firm belief that our purpose was to help others who were in need.
An exceptional & sharp chess player, Rolly loved the challenge of the game, and it was the foundation for some of his most solid friendships. Like a game of chess, Rolly approached life’s challenges with patience, creativity, and quiet confidence that inspired those who knew him.
Rolly was happiest where he was working at building up and spending time on his property with his wife, kids and grandkids. He also loved four-wheeling with his friends on eighteen-mile island. Rolly had a deep appreciation for the beauty of the world, often pausing to capture the glow of an evening sky. Those fleeting sunsets that now feel like messages from him remind us that even after the sun sets, the stars still rise.
Rolly’s life was a testament to love, loyalty, and the strength of a generous spirit. His legacy will live on in his family, his friends, and the community he so deeply cared for.
In keeping with his wishes, there will be no visitation. A celebration of his life will take place on Saturday, December 20th, 2025, from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. at the Alban Community Centre, 796 ON-64, French River.
Funeral and cremation arrangements entrusted to the Cooperative Funeral Home, Sudbury.
www.cooperativefuneralhome.ca
Donations can be made to the French River Food bank.