Robert H. Turcotte, 85, passed away peacefully Oct. 18, at Holy Family Hospital at Merrimack Valley, surrounded by his family. He was the husband of Antoinette “Toni” M. (Rapp) Turcotte.
Born in Haverhill March 20, 1932, he was the last surviving child of seven children born to late Donat and Theresa (Remy) Turcotte.
Turcotte was educated in Haverhill and graduated from Haverhill Trade School, class of 1950. He then began a 47-year career as a printer at the Lowell Sun and Winthrop Printing in South Boston before retiring in 1997. Following his retirement, he worked at this funeral home offering compassionate care and assistance to families served. Turcotte served his country as a member of the U.S. Army with both the 45th and 7th Infantry Divisions as a machine-gunner during the Korean War. He was honorably discharged receiving, among other awards, his Combat Infantry Badge and the Order of the Bayonet. Bob was a member of St. James Church and former member of the Elks Lodge #165. He was past president of the Holy Name Society at Sacred Hearts Church. Turcotte was Past Commander and Chaplin of the Korean War Veterans, Past Vice Commander of the American Legion, Post #4, former Cub Master, Pack 24 and Assistant Scout Master, Troop 24 at Sacred Hearts Church. Turcotte was an avid Boston sports fan who also enjoyed golf, fishing, and most of all spending time with family. He exhibited boundless love for his family and was proud of their accomplishments.
Besides his wife of 61 years, he is survived by his children, Robert H. Turcotte Jr. and his wife Cheryl of Dracut, David W. Turcotte and his wife Deborah of Leicester, Donat L. Turcotte and his wife Donna of Exeter, N.H., Frederick J. Turcotte and his wife Dolores of Haverhill, Theresa A. Turcotte of Haverhill and Susan M. Rostosky and her husband Stephen of Haverhill; 17 grandchildren; 15 great grandchildren, numerous nieces, nephews and many friends.
Relatives and friends are invited to the funeral Saturday, Oct. 21, at 9 a.m. at Dole, Childs and Shaw Funeral Home, 148 Main St., Haverhill followed by a 10 a.m. Mass of Christian Burial at Sacred Hearts Church. Calling hours are Friday at the funeral home from 3 to 8 p.m. Donations in his memory may be made to the Korean War Veterans, c/o Russell Chaput, 56 Brandy Brow Rd., Haverhill, MA 01830.