Roland A. "Papa" Pyche, Jr.

West Boylston – Roland A. “Papa” Pyche, Jr., 88, died peacefully on Friday, September 1, 2023, at UMass Memorial Healthcare – University Campus, Worcester. He was born in Worcester, the son of Roland A. Pyche, Sr. and Bertha (Sieswerda) Pyche and grew up in the Green Hill neighborhood in Worcester.

Roland graduated from Worcester Boys Trade School with a focus in electrical work with the class of 1954. After becoming a licensed electrician Roland worked for several companies locally and retired from Allmerica Financial Corp. in 2001. Faith was central to Roland’s life and he worshipped at The Journey Community Church on Belmont Street in Worcester for many years. He served as a Deacon, an Elder as well as leader of the Christian Boy’s Brigade among many other roles at the church. Roland married his one true love, Muriel (Wade) in 1955 and the couple lived in Worcester and Auburn before settling in West Boylston where they raised their children and remained for 56 years. Recently the couple relocated to Holden to be closer to family. Roland was the ultimate handyman and was always willing to help a friend or relative with their next home improvement challenge, without ever expecting or wanting anything in return. He also had a passion for fixing cars and enjoyed crossword puzzles and bird watching. Above all he cherished his family.

Roland is survived by his wife of 68 years, Muriel G. (Wade) Pyche; his son, Brian D. Pyche and his wife, Jane of Auburn; his daughters, Joanne Quillen and her husband, Albert of Holden and Kathryn Rutledge and her husband, Stephen of Holden; his grandchildren, Adria, Matthew, Lindsay, Catherine, Jocelyn, Rachael, Jeanine, Meaghan and Anna; fourteen great-grandchildren; as well as several nieces and nephews. Roland was predeceased by his brother, Clayton Pyche; and his sisters, Betty Forsell, Ruth Chamberlain and Muriel Schedin.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend memorial calling hours from 3 to 5 p.m. on Friday, September 15, 2023, at Miles Funeral Home, 1158 Main St., Holden. A memorial service will be held at The Journey Community Church on Saturday, September 16, 2023, at 1 p.m. Interment will be private. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Journey Community Church, 25 Belmont St., Worcester, MA 01605.