FALMOUTH - Joshua Michael Stone, 29, of Falmouth, formerly of Gardner, passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, September 14, 2022, after a long struggle with substance addiction. Joshua leaves behind his parents Lori Rojcewicz (and partner Robert Duval) of South Barre, MA, Jeffrey Stone (and partner Rebeca Moreno) of Guam, siblings Alyssa Holmes (and husband Michael) of Barre, MA, Jake Rojcewicz and David Rojcewicz of New Braintree, MA and grandparents Mrs. Katherine Snyder (Mr. Eddie K. Snyder predeceased Joshua in 2007) of Holden, MA and Mrs. Joyce Stone (Mr. Michael Stone predeceased Joshua in 2017) of Jensen Beach, FL. Joshua also leaves many beloved nieces, nephews, cousins, aunts, uncles and friends.
Joshua graduated from Quabbin Regional High School, Barre, MA in 2011 and was an avid musician, playing guitar in the school’s Jazz Band. He enjoyed special time with his beloved Gram Snyder who took him to weekly guitar lessons for years. He continued his love of the guitar throughout his life, studying and collecting a variety of stringed instruments that he became proficient with, including the banjo and ukulele.
Joshua was also an avid fisherman, enjoying local lakes, ponds, and reservoirs as well as hauling beauties out of the lakes of Maine and New Hampshire. He kept a fishing pole handy in his car at all times for any spontaneous fishing breaks. He caught his first monster land-locked salmon, weighing 4.5 pounds on Rangeley Lake in Maine, with his Uncle Mark, at the age of nine.
Josh began studying biomechanical engineering as a dual enrollment student at Mt. Wachusett Community College, Gardner, MA while a senior in high school. He continued his engineering studies at Quinsigamond Community College, Worcester, MA. His career path included several jobs as an auto mechanic, which he enjoyed. Along with his stepfather Bob Duval, he was also re-building a vehicle previously owned by his stepbrother Joseph Duval, who predeceased him in 2018, also after a long struggle with substance use.
Joshua had many interests but will be most remembered for his big heart, infectious, mischievous grin, and gentle soul. He spent most holidays with beloved grandparents and family; he was a special gift, born on Christmas day. He loved spending time with many cousins and friends - on the Cape boating, snowboarding locally and in Maine, four-wheeling and general goofing around with his sister and brothers, hiking with his mom and Bob, and most recently cooking. He loved animals and counts among his many friends, a beloved dog, Bella, who passed in 2012. Joshua had many talents and played sports in local leagues from childhood onward. A self-portrait Joshua painted as a child was included in a specially selected exhibit displayed at the Boston Museum of Fine Arts in 2007. He enjoyed building things and spent many happy hours on elaborate school projects with his Grandpa Snyder and making Pinewood Derby cars with his Uncle Kevin.
He touched many lives and will be deeply missed but held closely in the hearts of those who love him. He struggled mightily and fought courageously. Please be kind to people every day; we know nothing of their internal struggles.
In lieu of flowers, please make donations to Pathway House, 171 Graham Street, Gardner, MA 01440. Pathway House is a residential treatment program where Joshua thrived during his long struggle on the elusive road to recovery.
Please visit the "Tribute Wall" on this page to share a memory or offer condolence.