Southbridge: Ernest E. LaCroix, 95, of Roger St., passed away on Sunday, April 5 ^th , in Harrington Memorial Hospital, Southbridge, after an illness.

His wife and love of his life, Janice A. (Lachapelle) LaCroix, passed away in 2009.  His son, Ernest E. LaCroix, Jr., passed away in 2009.  He leaves his step daughters, Sharon Rust of Southbridge, Linda Legere and her husband Ron of Sturbridge and Laurie Meehan and her husband Dennis of Southbridge; his step son, Michael Pontbriand and his wife Cindy of Lecanto, FL; his seven grandchildren, LoriAnne Bernier and her husband Mark of N. Grosvenordale, CT., Jaime Cagle and her husband Michael of Tucson, AZ, Joshua Roy and his wife Rona of Sturbridge, Stephanie Kaferlein and her husband Matthew of Spencer, Dennis Meehan III and his wife Sarah of Southbridge, Christopher Meehan of Sturbridge and Michael Pontbriand, Jr. of Lecanto, FL; 7 great grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.  He was predeceased by several brothers and sisters.  He was born in Southbridge the son of William and Rozilda (Benoit) LaCroix.  Ernest was a US Army Veteran of World War II, serving in the 82 ^nd Airborne Division in the European Theatre.  He was a recipient of the Purple Heart.

Ernest was a Postal Carrier for the US Postal Service in Southbridge for 30 years, retiring in 1986.  He was a member of the Leonide J. Lemire post 6055 of the VFW in Southbridge.  He was also a member of the National Association of Letter Carriers.  Ernest enjoyed going out to eat, loved Coney Island, and trying different restaurants with his daughters. He loved traveling and enjoying the beach, especially Maine and Florida with his wife.  The greatest joy in his life was his wife, their children and grandchildren.

Due to current health restrictions his graveside service in Oak Ridge Cemetery, Southbridge will be private. There are no calling hours.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the American Cancer Society, 30 Speen St., Framingham, MA 01701.

The Daniel T. Morrill Funeral Home, 130 Hamilton St., Southbridge, is directing arrangements.