Joseph Emile Laurie Hachey

Joseph Emile Laurie Hachey, 97, of Fitchburg, was delivered into the arms of our Almighty Heavenly Father on April 8, 2026. He left this world the way he entered into it, surrounded by love. “Larry,” as he was sometimes called, was born in Fitchburg on Valentine’s Day, 1929, the year the Great Depression began. He was the 5th of 6 children born to Emmanuel and Euphemie (Leblanc) Hachey. His Acadian parents brought him up speaking fluent French in a home filled with love and music. As a young boy, he attended St. Joseph’s Elementary School, where he kept the nuns busy with his antics. He graduated from St. Bernard’s High School and soon enlisted in the armed forces. He spent 4 years in the Air Force, where he earned the rank of sergeant. He was stationed in both Ohio and Japan, and would often speak about the memory of the seasickness he experienced while on the ship to Japan. He then returned back home to Fitchburg, where he attended Fitchburg State College and received a teaching degree. Throughout his decades-long teaching career in the Fitchburg school system, he was well-liked and respected by students and colleagues. During his amazingly long life, Joe was known for his dependability, humor, and willingness to share his opinions. Being well-versed in many subjects, he was a great conversationalist. His warmth and penchant for a good time made him a wonderful friend. He enjoyed golfing, bowling, square dancing, and attending auctions. His love for travel resulted in family trailering adventures around New England and Canada, winter months spent as a “Snowbird,” in Fort Pierce, FL, and treasured summers spent at his waterfront cottage in Caissie Cape, New Brunswick, Canada. He also took great pride in caring for the family home on Franklin Road in Fitchburg. The white Cape Cod set back on this country road was always a “looker,” as you passed by. He is survived by his dear wife, Irene (Brodeur), to whom he was married for 63 years; his daughter, Ellen Fairbrother, and her partner, Gregory Downes; his son, Steven Hachey, and his partner, Carolyn Quirk; two grandsons; Eric Fairbrother and his wife, Katie, and Liam Hachey. He is also survived by his devoted brother, Roger Hachey, and his loving sister-in-law, Loraine Brodeur; as well as many cousins, nieces and nephews. Joe was committed and loyal to God, his family, his country, and the community. He will be greatly missed, but the wonderful memories his family and friends hold in their hearts will carry them forward until they meet again. The family wishes to thank the staff at Deaconess Abundant Life Services, Concord, MA, for the kind and tender-hearted care they provided to Joe. Sincere thanks are also extended to the team at UMass Memorial Health Alliance-Clinton Hospital Home Care & Hospice, for their compassionate and knowledgeable care. Services will be held on Friday, April 17, 2026. Calling hours will be at Isabelle & Anderson Funeral Home, 316 Clarendon St., Fitchburg, from 9:30 to10:30 AM. A Funeral Mass at 11:00 AM will follow at St. Joseph’s Church, 49 Woodland St., with burial at the parish cemetery.

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Joseph Emile Laurie Hachey

February 14, 1929 - April 8, 2026