Roger Leo Charest, 87, of Gardner, passed peacefully at home on Thursday, July 23, 2026 surrounded by his family.
Born on July 12, 1939, in Gardner, he was the son of the late Leo and Loretta (Miller). Roger was a dedicated equipment operator for Kelly Brothers for 33 years, where he was known for his hard work and commitment. He went on to work at Kirk Eastern until his retirement.
He was a faithful parishioner of Annunciation Parish and lived his faith through his kindness and devotion to his community. Roger enjoyed staying active and took great pride in maintaining his health. He loved going to the gym and exercising and was a member of Fitness Concepts, Silver Sneakers, and the Gardner Senior Center, where he enjoyed spending time with friends and fellow members. Above all else, Roger's greatest joy was his family. He cherished every moment spent with them, and his love, support, and dedication will be remembered always.
Roger leaves his wife of 25 years Evelyn Charest; a daughter Lorraine Draleau and her husband Tom of Gardner; two grandsons Travis and Seth Draleau; one great granddaughter Lydia; two step children David Comeau and his wife Rachel of New Brunswick, Canada, and Nancy Comeau-Paradise and her significant other David Mei of Ashburnham two brothers George and Edward Charest both of Gardner; one sister Annette Bourgeois of Gardner; several step grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Besides his parents Roger is predeceased by one son Leo Charest who passed in 1992; one brother Norman Charest; and four sisters Claire Fredette Beauregard, Shirley Henry, Georgette Case, and Lorraine Charest.
Calling hours will be held Tuesday, July 28, 2026 from 4:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. in the Boucher Funeral Home Inc. 110 Nichols Street, Gardner, MA 01440.
A mass will be held Wednesday, July 29, 2026 at 10:00 a.m. in Annunciation Parish, 135 Nichols Street, Gardner. Burial will follow at Notre Dame Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to American Cancer Society, PO Box 5003 Attn: Greater Gardner Relay For Life #6AYVG Hagerstown MD 21741 or on their websit