Edward “Rocky” M. Fontaine, 75, of Keene and a former long-time resident of Swanzey died on Saturday, November 27, 2021, at the Jack Byrne Center for Palliative Care in Lebanon. He passed peacefully with the love of family near after a brief period of declining health.
Edward was born the son of the late Clara F. (Reed) and Edward Fontaine on January 19, 1946, in Swanzey. He was educated locally and attended schools in Swanzey.
On March 31, 1984, he exchanged vows with Virginia “Ginger” H. Malone at the Swanzey Community House. They were married with family and friends in attendance. Sadly, Ginger passed on November 5, 2018, after thirty-four years of marriage.
Rocky was fortunate enough to find love once again. On April 18, 2019, he met Tomasa “Tammy” D. LaFreniere, they fell in love and became engaged that same year. Tammy never left his side during his illness.
He was employed by the City of Keene working in the Highway Department as a truck driver for thirty years until his retirement in 2017. Rocky wasn’t one to sit still. After retirement, he stayed on with the City of Keene working with the Parks and Recreation Office doing seasonal work at the parks and cemeteries. Prior, he had worked at the C.L. Lane Construction Co. as a heavy equipment operator.
He enjoyed; hunting, watching NASCAR and the western channel (Cowboy movies). He was always up for a cookout with family and friends. Time was spent at Dunkin Donuts in North Swanzey with his “buds” laughing, poking fun and enjoying their time together. You could find Rocky watching the races at the Monadnock Speedway in warmer weather. In his younger years, Rocky enjoyed playing softball in numerous leagues. He was dubbed the “Golden Arm” for his great pitching skills. He was a member of the American Legion in Keene, The Italian Club in Keene and the Sportsman’s Club in Fitzwilliam.
Mr. Fontaine is survived by his Fiancée, Tomasa “Tammy” D. LaFreniere of Keene. His children; Mark E. Fontaine and his wife, Laura of Swanzey. Brian K Fontaine and his wife Kimberly of Marlborough. Children from a combined marriage; Susan M Sachetti and her partner, Scott Seymour of Swanzey. Julie L. Sachetti and her partner, Rick Germana of Swanzey.
Donald T. Sachetti of Swanzey and Robert A. Sachetti and his wife, Mel of Swanzey. His siblings; Ronald “Chuck” Fontaine and his partner, Karen Herbert of Swanzey and Priscilla Purrington of Richmond. Seven Grandchildren; Rebecca, Linda, Kevin, Felicia, Dylan, Emma, Alicia, Sam, Casey, Nina, and Dominic. In addition, he is survived by; ten great-grandchildren, cousins, nieces, nephews, extended family and friends. Edward was predeceased by his wife, Virginia Fontaine and siblings, Donald Fontaine, Arlene Morin and Edna Miller.
Calling hours will be held on Sunday, December 5, 2021, from 1 to 3 pm. in the funeral chapel. Burial will be private. There will be a celebration of his life on December 19 between 1 pm-4 pm at The American Legion on Court St. In Keene. In lieu of flowers, the family would prefer donations be sent in memory of Edward Fontaine to Jack Byrne Center for Palliative Care, C/O. Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center, One Medical Dr. Lebanon, NH. 03756. All services are under the care of Cheshire Family Funeral Chapel and Crematories, 44 Maple Ave. Keene, NH. 03446. WWW.cheshirefamilyfh.com
