Robert J. Bettez Sr., 81, of Gardner, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on Wednesday, October 28, 2026, at UMass Memorial HealthAlliance-Hospital in Leominster.

Born in Weymouth, MA on November 10, 1944. He was the son of the late Cleo J. and Lottie (Fournier) Bettez. He graduated from Gardner High School with the Class of 1962. Bob continued his education at MWCC in Gardner andUMass in Amherst, earning a Bachelor's Degree. Bob was employed at Digital Equipment Corporation for over 30 years. Bob then spent 12 years with his sons doing handyman and carpentry work until his retirement.

Bob was a parishioner of Annunciation Parish and a member of the Acadien Social Club. Bob was deeply devoted to his community. He served on the Gardner Planning Board for over 40 years, generously dedicating his time and knowledge to the city he called home. Bob was very involved with Boy Scouts, helping 3 sons and 3 grandchildren, and countless other youths become Eagle Scouts. Most recently, Bob was an active volunteer and member of the Gardner Senior Center; he enjoyed assisting with bread raffles, coordinating donations from local supermarkets, and lending a helping hand wherever needed.

Bob enjoyed working with his hands and spending time outdoors. He had a passion for woodworking and home improvement projects; he spent countless hours helping his family and friends with whatever project they were doing. Bob enjoyed boating, swimming, water-skiing, campfires, and cookouts at his camp on Lake Wampanoag. Bob also loved snowmobiling, 4-wheeling, and more campfires up at the family cabin in NH. Bob definitely treasured spending time with his loved ones, both family and friends. He cherished making memories, sharing stories, and laughing about past adventures; these special moments meant so much to him.

Bob is survived by his beloved wife, Jane M. (Fredette) Bettez; five children, Robert J. Bettez Jr. and his wife, Rhonda,Lisa Ellis and her husband, Michael, David Bettez and his wife, Laura, Matthew Bettez and his wife, Serena, Mark Bettez and his wife, Tina. Bob had eleven grandchildren, Joshua and his wife, Bridget, Sarah, Bethany, Elizabeth, Rebecca, and her husband, Trent, Stephanie and her husband, George, Leonard, Kaylee and her husband, Seth, Krista, Bradley, and Megan; four great-grandchildren, Cecilia, Charlotte, Bennett, and Katherine. Bob's sister, Diane Raisanen and her husband, Gerald. Bob is also survived by several nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Beside his parents, Bob is predeceased by a brother, Paul Bettez; three sisters, Katherine O'Connell, Janet Lott, and Marie Callahan; a granddaughter, Faith Bettez, and a great-grandson, Charlie Tyros.

Calling Hours with a service to follow will be held Tuesday, November 10, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. in the Boucher Funeral Home, Inc., 110 Nichols Street, Gardner, MA with a service starting at 6:00 p.m.

A celebration of life will be held Saturday, May 1, 2027, from 1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. at the Acadien Social Club, 193 Parker St. Gardner MA 01440.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Gardner CAC, 294 Pleasant St, Gardner, MA 01440. Please reference in memory of Robert J. Bettez Sr.