Donald Rene Leger

Obituary: Donald Rene Leger

Donald René Leger, 73,  of Westminster, MA, passed away peacefully at home on March 5, 2026, surrounded by his loving family after a brief battle with cancer. He was born on April 12, 1952.

Donald was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Jessica (Racine) Leger, who passed away in November after 52 years of marriage. Together, they built a life centered on family, friendship, and community.

He is survived by his son, Lucas, and his wife Nadine Leger and their children Elexis, Nolan, and Reese. His daughter, Marisa, and her husband Zachary King, and their children, Jocelyn, Elise, and Mason.   He was a proud and devoted grandfather whom they lovingly called “Pepe.” Some of his happiest moments were spent with his grandchildren, enjoying boat rides on Stodgemeadow Pond and sharing time outdoors.

Donald was predeceased by his parents, Alpherie and Theresa Leger of Fitchburg, Massachusetts. He is also survived by his brothers Leo Leger and his wife Cathy of Wilmington, Massachusetts, and Philip Leger of Austin,Texas, also by his sister and brother-in-law, Linda and Bob Perry of Boylston, MA.  He was loved and revered by his nieces and nephews, Jill, Jody, Holly, Chris, Jason, Ryan, and Adam.  He also had many special friends who have been a wonderful support network during his illness.

Donald attended Sacred Heart Elementary School and graduated from Notre Dame High School. He later earned his mechanical engineering degree from Northeastern University. He spent 25 years working at General Electric in Fitchburg, Massachusetts, where he built a respected career in engineering. Over the course of his professional life, he worked on numerous complex projects involving nuclear propulsion, steam turbines, and geothermal power generation. In addition to his time at GE, he also worked with Turbocare, DRS, Siemens, and Ethos Energy.  He enjoyed teaching and mentoring new engineers and lectured professionally around the world.  Donald remained dedicated to his work throughout his life and continued working until the very end because he truly loved what he did.

His career took him around the world, where he enjoyed meeting colleagues and making lifelong friendships. Many of the friendships he formed during his years at GE remained important to him throughout his life.

Donald took great pride in designing and building his beautiful home in Westminster and his camp in Ashburham. Outside of work, he enjoyed working on his home, boating, fishing, and traveling for business. He especially loved time spent on the water watching the loons and caring for the Stodgemeadow Road, often using his beloved John Deere tractor to help maintain and repair the road.

He was an active member of his community. Donald served on the Board of Directors at the Faye Club in Fitchburg and was involved with the Stodgemeadow Lake Association, helping keep the road safe for neighbors and visitors. For many years, he helped with the Longsjo Race and supported the Boys & Girls Club. He was also a former member of the Lions Club, United Way, and volunteered for many community agencies over the years.

Donald was known for his generosity, kindness, and willingness to lend a hand whenever neighbors or friends needed help. His quiet dedication to family, community, and his work left a lasting impression on all who knew him.

He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, colleagues, and all whose lives he touched.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests a contribution to the Simonds Sinon Regional Cancer Center with checks referring to his name mailed to 275 Nichols Rd., Fitchburg, MA 01420.

Calling hours for Donald will be held on Tuesday, March 10,2026 at the funeral home from 6 until 8 p.m.

His Funeral Mass will be on Wednesday, March 11,2026  @ 11a.m. in St. Edward The Confessor Church, 10 Church St. in Westminster, MA  All friends and relatives are welcome to attend.