Roland Vermette

Roland Vermette of Sanford, Maine, passed away peacefully on August 28, 2026, at the age of 83, with his beloved wife, Lois, by his side. Roland and Lois met in their late teens and began a life together that would span more than six decades. They were married for 62 years and shared a lifetime of memories, family, laughter, and love.

Born on September 10, 1942, Roland was the son of Wilfred Vermette and Amanda Bosse Vermette, both of whom passed away in 1954.

Roland grew up in Sanford, Maine, attending local schools including Emerson School, Roosevelt School, Sanford Middle School, Lafayette School, and Sanford High School. Sanford remained an important part of his life, and after spending time living in Connecticut, Roland eventually returned home to Maine.

Throughout his life, Roland was a hardworking man who took pride in providing for his family. He drove trucks and worked at Genest Concrete and LaValley Lumber before beginning his career with Sanford Public Schools, where he proudly worked for 36 years before retiring.

Roland had a deep passion for camping and the outdoors. He loved spending time outside, enjoying nature, and creating memories with family and friends. Whether camping, exploring the outdoors, or simply enjoying time surrounded by the people he loved, these moments brought Roland great happiness.

One of the most meaningful parts of Roland and Lois’s life together was their commitment to children and family. Together, they opened their hearts and their home to dozens of foster children over the years. Their willingness to provide love, stability, and a safe place for children in need was a reflection of the kind of people they were and the generosity they shared. For Roland, family was about much more than blood—it was about love, caring, and being there for those who needed him.

Roland was also a longtime member of the Elks in Sanford, where he enjoyed the fellowship and friendships that came with being part of the organization.

Above all, Roland will be remembered for his generous spirit and his heart of gold. He cared deeply about his family and the people around him and was the kind of person who was always willing to help. His warmth, humor, and larger-than-life personality left an impression on everyone who knew him.

Roland was preceded in death by his parents, Wilfred and Amanda Vermette, and his brother, George Vermette, who passed away in 1964.

He is survived by his devoted wife of 62 years, Lois Vermette; his brother, Paul Vermette and his wife, Debbie Vermette, of Seattle, Washington; his sisters, Irene LaRoche; Doris Gilbert; and Pauline Ainsworth.

Roland also leaves behind his children, Ryan Vermette of Reston, Virginia; Jason Vermette of Lyman, Maine; Sandy Vermette of Sanford, Maine; and Skyler Mattei and her husband, Jai Mattei, of Wells, Maine, as well as his grandchildren, extended family, and many friends who will miss him dearly.

Roland had a wonderful sense of humor and was never short on a good story. One family favorite involved a time when he went out hunting and, at first glance, mistook a boulder for a moose—and took a shot at it. It was the kind of story that captured Roland perfectly: memorable, entertaining, and guaranteed to bring a smile to the faces of those who heard it.

Roland’s life was defined by family, hard work, friendship, humor, adventure, and kindness. From meeting Lois as teenagers, to building a family, sharing 62 years of marriage, opening their home and hearts to dozens of foster children, working 36 years for Sanford Public Schools, and enjoying countless days outdoors, Roland created a life centered around caring for others and making memories with the people he loved.

He will be deeply missed but lovingly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Roland had a favorite saying that many will remember: “See you Monday.” It was a simple phrase, but one that became part of who he was and a familiar farewell to those around him.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held for Roland on Friday, September 11, 2026, at 10:30 a.m. at St. Therese of Lisieux Parish, Holy Family Church, located at 66 North Avenue in Sanford, Maine. The funeral service is open to the public, and all who knew Roland are welcome to attend.

A Celebration of Life will follow from 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Social Club in Springvale, Maine. The Celebration of Life is also open to the public, and family, friends, former colleagues, and members of the community are warmly invited to join together to celebrate Roland’s life, share memories, and honor the man who meant so much to so many.

See you Monday, Roland. You will be missed.