Roland Robert Praetsch, 82, of Holliston, died Thursday, December 21, 2006. Born in Needham, he was the son of the late Robert and Margaret (Zigler) Praetsch. He was the husband of 59 years to Barbara (Giles) Praetsch.

A Holliston resident for 35 years, he served in the Army in WWII. He was a Needham Firefighter for 33 years and a Holliston bus driver for 24 years. He enjoyed gardening, cane making and spending time with his family. He touched many lives.

He is survived by 2 sons, Roland R. Jr. and his wife Jane of Wrentham, Steven and his wife Jeanne of Holliston, 1 daughter, Nancy Mazzenga and her husband Gerald of Holliston, 1 brother, Richard Praetsch of Vt., 4 sisters, Elsie Biles, Clara Kenefick, Margaret Tocci, and Louise Soares all of Cape Cod. He leaves behind 11 grandchildren, Barbara and her husband Dean of Holliston, Ann, Jeremy, Elizabeth, Jennifer, Nathan, Molly, Chris, Erin, Ashley, and Trevor. He also leaves 5 great-grandchildren, Matthew, John, Victoria, Caleb, and Aidan.

Calling hours will be at the Chesmore Funeral Home of Holliston, 854 Washington St. (RT. 16)
on Thursday, December 28, 2006 from 4-6p.m, followed by a 6:15 p.m. service at the First Baptist Church of Holliston on High St. officiated by Rev. Batten. Following the service, a reception will follow in the church hall. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association: Massachusetts Chapter, 311 Arsenal St. Watertown, MA. 02472