Robert Duquette

         Robert Charles Duquette Sr, age 92 passed away on August 3, 2023.  Born in Leicester MA to Wilfred Ovid Duquette and Rose Mary (Forgit), Robert was one of 9 children, all of whom have preceded him in death, except for his brother Joseph P. Duquette and his wife Jenette of Bowler, WI.

        Robert grew up and lived most of his life in Watertown MA.  He enlisted in the United States Navy, following a long tradition of his father and brothers.  He served as a pipefitter on a submarine tender vessel, the USS Nereus (AS 17), based in the ports of San Diego and San Francisco during the Korean Conflict.  Upon honorable discharge, he returned to Watertown, enrolled in technical night classes for mechanical engineering and HVAC certification.  Robert also attended evening classes, eventually receiving his Watertown High School diploma in 1972. Until retirement, Robert worked in the building & engineering maintenance field for numerous companies.

         Robert was known to perform his “professional craft” to benefit his family, as he believed he could fix anything.  His other hobbies included music, photography, and his 1959 Chevrolet Impala.  His “homemade” music collection consisted of cassette tapes from the 1930 through 1950’s era, and Walkman player were always close by.  Robert’s love for photography was a constant presence at all family events and ceremonies, as he enjoyed documenting the lives of his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.  He did so in the early years, with a movie or still camera, and in later years using digital technology.  After moving to Lancaster, SC in 2018, Robert purchased his Impala which fulfilled a lifelong dream to re-own a previously beloved car from earlier in his life.  He proudly displayed his car at local events and in everyday spots around town.  Robert always took the time to stop and make conversation to all who inquired about the car, often allowing strangers to sit inside and have their pictures taken.

        Robert is predeceased by Mary E. Duquette (Wood), his wife of 52 years, and his son, Michael J. Duquette, both of Watertown MA.  He is survived by his son Robert C. Duquette Jr and his wife Mary Ann Duquette (Tambascio) of Braintree MA, and their 3 children and 7 grandchildren, and his daughter, Anne M. Simpson, her husband Carroll, of Waxhaw NC and their 2 children.

      The Duquette and Simpson families will receive extended family & friends, at Nardone Funeral Home, 373 Main St.  Watertown from 2:00 -5:00 PM on Sunday, August 13, 2023. A funeral Mass  will be held at St. Patrick’s Church, 212 Main St. Watertown on Monday August 14, 2023, at 10:30 AM.