By Beth David, Editor
Acushnet said good-bye to one of its long time former officials and an active member of the community last week. Leo Rousseau, 79, died at home on April 2 after a brief illness.
Mr. Rousseau served on the Selectboard, the Conservation Commission, Park Commission, Steering Committee, By Law Review Committee, and Trust Fund Commission, and was an active town meeting member.
Mr. Rousseau was a regular fixture at town meetings and candidates nights, and often showed up at other meetings in town when he knew something was going on.
He was instrumental in getting bus monitors back on the elementary school buses, but failed to persuade people in 2013 to keep the community center open, despite waxing nostalgic about the center and invoking the memory of gong shows and small town life, according to a story in the 2/28/13 issue of the Neighb News, which included this passage:
“I do love Acushnet,” said Mr. Rouseau. “It’s the best town in the United States. It’s got the best people in the United States….maybe you love Acushnet a little, too,” he concluded, drawing loud applause from residents.
Leo Rousseau addresses Acushnet town meeting on 2/25/13, weaving a tale of gong shows and dedicated volunteers at the community center. Neighb News file photo by Beth David.
He is survived by a son, two daughters five grandchildren and 4 great-grandchildren.
A service was held on April 7. Arrangements were by Saunders-Dwyer Home for Funerals in New Bedford: www.saundersdwyer.com
Click here to download the entire 4/13/17 issue: 04-13-17 FlashlightEggHunt
