Ernest Robert Paul Fournier, Jr.

Ernest Robert Paul Fournier, Jr., 92, of Lakeville, Massachusetts, passed away peacefully Sunday evening, December 5, 2021, with his loving family by his side. He was the husband of Eleanor M. (Brehaut) Fournier for 69 years, and they were one of Lakeville’s oldest married couples. Eleanor was most devoted to him and will cherish the memories they had together. Born in New Bedford, Massachusetts, he was the son of the late Ernest A. and Lucienne (Proulx) Fournier. In addition to his parents, he was the brother of the late Henry F.J. Fournier of Dartmouth Massachusetts and to sister Helene J. LeMay of Acushnet, Massachusetts. He was also the brother to Jacques Fournier of Fairhaven, Massachusetts, brother in law to Ruth Henegan of Margate, Florida and Deanne Brehaut of Lakeville, Massachusetts. Ernest attended French Grammar School and was fluent in both French and English. He was a graduate of the New Bedford Institute of Technology in June of 1960 and was a member of the American Association of Textile Technologists. He was also a member of the Phi Psi Fraternity during his time spent there. He would use his knowledge and skills to successfully work in this field throughout his entire life. His sons continue his legacy today. Ernest was an  Airman Apprentice while serving in the Korean War. He was stationed at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba and returned on the USS Tarawa. After returning, he was attached to a fighter squadron at Quonset Point, Rhode Island. After discharge from the Navy, Ernest served as a volunteer on a rescue/search dive team where he utilized his scuba-diving skills for the benefit of others. Ernest has been a resident of Lakeville for over 50 years, and where he spent many wonderful years.  Numerous wonderful days were spent enjoying the water on Long Pond with his family and friends. Most notably, he was known for his delicious New England Clamboils, and other special gatherings which he and Eleanor hosted during the summer months. Ernest developed a passion for aviation, and he became a licensed, private pilot. He was a member of the New Bedford Regional Airport where his family and friends had the pleasure to enjoy many flights with him throughout the years. Above all that, Ernest was most proud of his five children, and shared unique bonds with each of them. He also was proud to have many loving grandchildren and great grandchildren. He is survived by his children, Deborah Jenkins of Swansea, Elizabeth Conley and her husband Thomas of Westport, Michael Fournier and his wife Mary of East Freetown, Paul Fournier of Lakeville, and Katherine DeAngelo and her husband Paul of West Bridgewater.  Ernest was the proud grandfather of Aaron, Andrew, Jeffrey, Tara, Thomas, Michael, Kayleigh, Lauren, Paul, Kori, and Liberty. He was great grandfather to Ava, Will, Aidan, Joshua, Vivien, Jaxon, Vanessa, and has one more great grandchild on the way. In addition, he leaves behind several adoring nieces and nephews. At the request of Ernest and his family, services will be held privately. Burial will be with military honors at the Veterans Cemetery at Thompson Hill., Lakeville, Massachusetts. In Lieu of flowers, and to honor his past service, donations in Ernest’s memory may be made to the Lakeville Fire Department, Water Rescue Team, 346 Bedford Street, Lakeville, MA 02347.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Ernest Robert Paul Fournier, Jr., please visit our floral store.