Obituary of Earl W. Desrochers

Holyoke- It is with deep sadness that the family of World War II veteran Earl W. Desrochers announces his passing into Eternal Life on May 7, 2020, at the Soldier’s Home in Holyoke.  He was born July 27, 1922 in Holyoke to the late Roland and Eva (Chalifoux) Desrochers.  He enlisted in the Army on December 23, 1942 serving  as a radio operator on various islands of the Pacific.  He was honorably discharged in October 1945.  Earl lived a long and eventful life during his 97years.   He has always been known for his outgoing personality, his sense of humor and his big smile.  He resided in South Hadley where he lived with his wife Claire of 64 years and they raised four children. For the last four years Earl has been a resident of the Holyoke Soldiers’ Home where he made many new friends, both residents and staff.  Besides his parents he was predeceased by his wife Claire (Duval) Desrochers who passed away March 21, 2009, and his brothers Raymond, Leonard, and Richard.  He will be missed by his children, Roland Desrochers and his wife Linda, Earl Desrochers and his wifeTheresa, Donna Hartford and her husband Bruce, and David Desrochers and his wife Ann as well as long time companion Jan Benard.  He is also survived by his sister-in-law Helen (McCourt) Desrochers of Chicopee, along with nine grandchildren and nine great grandchildren.  The family would like to thank the staff of the Soldiers’ Home for the care provided over the last few years. Services and burial will be private.  Internment will be at the Veterans’ Cemetery in Agawam, MA. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Holyoke Soldiers’ Home Recreational fund, 110 Cherry Street, Holyoke, MA, 01040, or to any food bank of your choice.