With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Roland Joseph Bard Jr., who left us on March 8, 2025, after a long and courageous battle with respiratory illness. He fought with grit and determination until the very end, never losing his sense of humor or his deep love for his family. Roland was born on May 4, 1951, in Eagle Lake, Maine, to Roland Bard Sr. and Theresa Bard.

A proud Marine, Roland served his country from August 1969 to June 1972, where he was a member of the 1st Battalion 6th Marine (Camp Lejeune, NC), 1st Battalion 3rd Marine (1st Marine Brigade), 3rd Battalion 9th Marine, and the Command and Staff College in Quantico, VA. He cherished the memories of his time in the service and held his fellow Marines close to his heart.

Roland was a true outdoorsman, happiest when he was fishing or hunting. He had a talent for finishing and mounting antler trophy mounts, a skill that reflected his meticulous craftsmanship. His dedication to hard work was evident throughout his career as a professional painter and worker for Pinkham Lumber and Fraser Paper. Roland was known for his infectious laughter and playful spirit. He was a jokester at heart and was always one to bring laughter to a room. He loved to tease his family and gift them with humorous nicknames. His nieces and nephews were especially lucky (or maybe unlucky) to receive his signature nicknames, something they will forever cherish. Roland's legacy is one of love, laughter, and loyalty - to his family, work, and country. While he may no longer be with us, his stories, jokes, and the warmth he brought into our lives will live on. Above all, Roland was a dedicated husband, father, and grandfather.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 50 years, Eva; their daughter, Victoria Bard Tran and her husband, Cuong, along with their children, Hazel and Kent. Additionally, he leaves behind his son, Christopher Bard and daughter-in-law, Olivia; as well as his mother, Theresa Bard; and mother-in-law Cecile Theriault. He shared an unbreakable bond with his twin brother, Robert "Rocky" Bard, and his wife, Peggy; as well as his brother, Joey and his wife, Pam; and his sister, Rose Marie Kile, and her husband, Paul. He was also blessed to have a special aunt, Bernadette Bouchard, and her family, who held a cherished place in his life. He is also survived by his in-law's family, and many nieces and nephews on both sides of the family. He was predeceased by his father, Roland Bard Sr.; his older sister, Juliette Bard; and his aunt, Jeannette "Bee" Bard. Roland's love for his family was undeniable, and he took immense pride in each of them. The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the wonderful ER and ICU staff at Northern Maine Medical for the personalized and dedicated care Roland received during his final days.

A memorial service will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday, March 22, 2025, at St. Louis Church in Fort Kent, where family and friends can honor a man who meant so much to so many.

Semper Fi, Roland - you were one of a kind, and you will be deeply missed.