Obituary: Roland Albert Petrin
Roland A. Petrin, Decorated Maine Veteran, Dies at 82
Roland Albert Petrin, a retired U.S. Army Sergeant Major and a longtime resident of Biddeford, Maine, died on September 22, 2025, in Woodstock, Georgia. He was 82.
Born on May 30, 1943, in Maine, Petrin was the son of Ernest and Alfreda (Bourgeault) Petrin. He graduated from St. Louis High School before enlisting in the U.S. Army in 1964. He served for 29 years, earning the rank of Sergeant Major (Retired) and receiving numerous decorations for his military service before retiring in 1993.
Petrin’s career spanned multiple assignments and deployments, reflecting a deep commitment to his country. Throughout his service, he was recognized for leadership, professionalism, and dedication to his fellow soldiers. After leaving the Army, he continued to be active in veterans’ affairs, remaining a respected figure in the Maine veteran community.
He shared more than 52 years of marriage with his wife, Charline, who preceded him in death. Together they raised two children: daughter Dawn LeClair and son Dana Petrin (Rachel). Petrin’s family grew to include five grandchildren—Nikki Tracchio (Ben), Brandee Webster (Kevin), Makenzi Tully (Damon), Joshua Petrin (Kierra), and Brian Davison—along with six great‑grandchildren: Wyatt, Emilia, Madilynn, Colton, Aubree, and Jackson. He is also survived by his sister Maggie Gagnon (Ray) and brother Raymond “Petey” Petrin (Barbara).
Petrin’s siblings who passed before him include Marie Pelletier, Rita LaBranche, Patricia Seymour, and Albert Petrin.
A funeral service honoring Petrin’s life and military service is scheduled for September 14, 2026, at noon at the Southern Maine Veterans’ Cemetery, located at 83 Stanley Road in Springvale, Maine. Full military honors will be rendered during the interment. A reception will follow at the Sanford Elks Lodge, 13 Elm St., Sanford, Maine.
Friends and family are invited to pay their respects at the cemetery and to join the celebration of Petrin’s life at the reception. Those wishing to honor his memory may consider contributions to a veteran‑related charity of their choice.
Petrin’s legacy is remembered through his devoted service to the nation, his dedication to his family, and his lasting impact on the communities he touched. He will be remembered as a loving husband, caring father, proud grandfather, and a respected leader among his peers.
