Roland Joseph Garceau, more commonly and fondly known by all as “Bug” or “Bugsy,” a longtime resident of Fairfield, Vermont, passed away on July 20, 2026. Born on October 7, 1949, in St. Albans, Vermont, he was the son of the late Gaston and Theresa (Gratton) Garceau.

As a child, he worked on the Gratton family farm on Fisher Pond Road alongside several uncles and cousins. He spent countless hours swimming in the summer and skating in the winter on the ponds behind his home, gathering at the clubhouse to play pool.

He attended Holy Angels Catholic School and Bellows Free Academy, graduating in 1968. He proudly served in the United States Air Force from 1969 to 1973, where he loved his role as a B-52 Crew Chief at the Loring Air Force Base (AFB).  He often shared stories of his travels throughout the United States and around the world, including his participation in a bombing competition representing the 42nd Bomb Wing. He was a longtime member of the American Legion Post 1.

Following his military service, he met and quickly fell in love with Judy Larsen. They were married on January 29, 1982, and shortly thereafter welcomed four children, whom he loved dearly. Together they built a life centered on family, working side by side in their cleaning and floor refinishing business. They enjoyed taking drives along Vermont’s back roads, working on their properties in Bakersfield and Belvidere, ice fishing, and relaxing together on the porch.

As their family grew, “Pep” cherished his 11 grandchildren, each of whom brought him immense pride in their own unique way. Family was always at the center of his life, and there was nothing he wouldn’t do for those he loved.

Bugsy was skilled in construction and mechanics and took great pride in the appearance of a freshly refinished floor. He was happiest spending time at “the pond,” playing horseshoes, building bonfires, playing 500 - teaching his children and grandchildren the proper way to bid - or making trips to the casino. He especially enjoyed to the birthday trip, where he proudly shared his favorite slot machines with his children. Bugsy loved all animals, and they loved him in return—from the family cats and dogs to more unconventional companions like Babe and Chick. 

He treasured family trips and time spent together, whether visiting Niagara Falls and Loring AFB with the Toofs, amusement parks with the Christians, breakfasts or Indian buffets with the Busheys, or home projects and visiting the pond with his son, Gaston. These moments, along with many others, became cherished family memories.

To those who knew him best, Bugsy was loyal, hardworking, and always willing to lend a hand to family and friends. He had a quick wit and wonderful sense of humor, even in his final days. 

He was predeceased by his beloved wife, Judy (Larsen) Garceau; his parents, Gaston and Theresa (Gratton) Garceau; his brothers, Henry (Marlene) Garceau and Rene (Betty) Garceau; and his sisters, Louann (Roger) Reed and Pauline (Ralph) Austin.

Bugsy is survived by his daughters, Amanda (Jake) Toof, Delisca (Brian) Christian, and Courtney (Jason) Bushey; his son, Gaston Garceau; his grandchildren, Hardy Toof, Taylor Bushey, Henrik Toof, Brett Bushey, Kameryn Christian, Holden Toof, Raymond Christian, Hazel Christian, Hugo Toof, Victor Christian, and Summer Christian; his brother, Greg (Julie) Garceau; and many beloved nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.

Per his wishes, there will be no public services, and a private memorial will be held with immediate family. Those wishing to express their sympathy are invited to consider a memorial contribution to BAYADA Home Health Care, 463 Mountain View Drive, Suite 100, Colchester, VT 05446. Condolences for the Garceau family may be shared at www.awrfh.com.