The passing of Conrad “Sonny” Robidoux, 71, on November 30, leaves a profound impact on those who met him, thanks to his positive attitude, his infectious laugh, and his desire to help anyone in need. He was the loving husband of high-school sweetheart Janet (Hemond) for 47 years, and the proud father of Stacy (Distefano) and Jodi (Smigelski). He loved spending time with his “summer” grandchildren—Tyler and Sophia, and his “winter” grandchildren—Kendal and Breck. Sonny was born on December 23, 1946 in Woonsocket, RI to Lucien and Jeanne (Badeau) Robidoux. His brother Roger and sister Kim (Laroche) always had a special bond of love and friendship and knew what it meant to have a good laugh. At Woonsocket High School, he captained the football, hockey, and baseball teams and was Junior and Senior President of the Class of 1965. He received the Theresa Pereira Award, for leadership, school pride, and generosity. The award was named after Theresa Pereira, former WHS student, who drowned while saving another student’s life. In one way or another, Sonny continued to exemplify this accolade throughout his life. On August 8, 1970 Sonny became a Woonsocket firefighter. His career spanned 25 years, during which, he was one of the city’s first EMT’s, worked as Assistant Fire Marshall, and retired as a Lieutenant on the force, where he earned several commendations and made lifelong friendships. He was the owner of Para-Med Ambulance Service and eventually Blacklab Railings. In addition to Sonny’s professional endeavors, he was a long-standing member of the Kiwanis Club, serving as President and Treasurer of the organization. He was also a member of the board of the Parks and Recreation Committee for the town of North Smithfield. Sonny enjoyed his leisure time with softball, tennis, golf, and skiing. He loved to escape the New England winters by heading to Orlando to be with his daughter and son-in-law Mark. In warmer weather, you would find Sonny at his Narragansett home, hanging out with family, especially his son-in-law Brian, in the man-cave (his outdoor kitchen). There he would cook his famous stuffies and clam chowder, shuck clams, and enjoy life with loved ones. Sonny also leaves several nieces and nephews along with great nieces and great nephews who shared many special moments with “Uncle Sonny.” His brothers-in-law, Mike, Den, and Don, and sisters-in-laws Diane, Sarah, and Sue also had a special place in his heart. Calling hours will be held from 9:30 to 12:30 on Saturday December 29, 2018 at Holt Funeral Home, 510 South Main Street, Woonsocket, RI followed by a “Celebration of Life” at the Village Haven Restaurant, 90 School St. Forestdale RI. In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to the COPD Foundation at their website: www.copdfoundation.org/Take-Action/Donate/Donate-Now.aspx Donations may be made to: COPD Foundation Web: www.copdfoundation.org/Take-Action/Donate/Donate-Now.aspx
Our most sincere sympathies to the family and friends of Conrad Sonny Robidoux November 30 2018.
Death notice for the town of: Woonsocket, state: Rhode Island