[Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 112 (Thursday, July 9, 2026)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E657-E658]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




     HONORING THE LEADERSHIP AND LEGACY OF ROGER P. FRECHETTE, SR.

                                  _____
                                 

                            HON. LORI TRAHAN

                            of massachusetts

                    in the house of representatives

                         Thursday, July 9, 2026

  Mrs. TRAHAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the remarkable life 
and legacy of Roger P. Frechette, Sr., a decorated boxer, veteran, 
entrepreneur, mentor, and community leader whose dedication to the City 
of Lowell has left a lasting impact across generations.
  Roger was born on October 4, 1941, in Lowell, Massachusetts, the 
second oldest of seven children born to Jean-Paul ``The Blond Tiger'' 
Frechette and Rita Fournier Frechette. Growing up in a family deeply 
rooted in athletics and community service, Roger learned early the 
values of discipline, perseverance, and giving back. His father, Jean-
Paul, was one of Lowell's most beloved sports figures, a New England 
Featherweight Champion, founder of the Greater Lowell Softball League, 
President of the Passe Temps Club, and a tireless advocate for youth 
athletics. In recognition of his contributions to the community, a 
bridge in Lowell was dedicated in his honor and proudly bears the Tiger 
Frechette name today. Inspired by his father's example, Roger embarked 
on a path that would mirror that same commitment to excellence and 
service.
  Roger began boxing at an early age and built an accomplished sixteen-
year career in the sport. His achievements included winning the Silver 
Mittens Championship in 1955, the Golden Gloves Novice Championship in 
1958, the Greater Lowell Open Championship in 1959, and the New England 
AAU Championship in 1961. He represented New England in national AAU 
competition, competed as a professional boxer, and earned distinction 
as the Fort Dix U.S. Army Boxing Champion in the 118-pound division 
while serving his country. Roger also proudly served in the 
Massachusetts National Guard. His dedication to boxing and his 
contributions to the sport were recognized in 2007 when he was inducted 
into the New England Boxing Hall of Fame.
  While Roger achieved success in the ring, his greatest contributions 
may have come through his commitment to mentoring young people. 
Believing that boxing could provide structure, confidence, and 
opportunity, he founded the West End Boxing Gym and worked closely with 
the Lowell Boys Club to guide and inspire countless young athletes. 
Through his mentorship, Roger taught lessons that extended far beyond 
sports, instilling discipline, respect, perseverance, and self-
confidence in generations of Lowell youth. For many, he served not only 
as a coach but as a role model and trusted mentor whose guidance helped 
shape their futures.
  Roger's business acumen was equally impressive. He owned and operated 
the Moosehead Cafe, founded Beverly Roofing and several successful 
roofing businesses, and invested in residential and commercial 
properties throughout Lowell. Through these ventures, he contributed to 
the economic vitality of the city while creating jobs and opportunities 
for others.
  Following in his father's footsteps, Roger also devoted himself to 
civic leadership. From 1960 through 1964, he served as President of the 
Passe Temps Club, becoming the youngest president in the organization's 
history. Throughout his life, he remained an active and respected 
figure in the community, using his influence to support local 
organizations, youth programs, and neighborhood initiatives. His 
leadership reflected a deep belief that strong communities are built 
through service, hard work, and a willingness to invest in others.
  Roger's greatest pride is his family. He shared a lifelong bond with 
his wife, Sandra Graham Frechette, and together they raised four sons: 
Roger, Jr., Ronnie, Robert, and

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Randy. Following the tragic loss of their son Robert in 1968, Roger and 
Sandra persevered through hardship and spent nearly three decades 
together. Today, their legacy continues through their children, 
grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and all those inspired by their 
example. Roger currently resides in Winter Park, Florida, where he is 
cared for by his son Ronnie and daughter-in-law Stephanie, though he 
has never lost his deep connection to Lowell, the city he proudly calls 
home and where his family's legacy was built.
  Roger's legacy extends far beyond his accomplishments as an athlete, 
businessman, or community leader. He is remembered for his generosity, 
his unwavering support of young people, his pride in the City of 
Lowell, and his commitment to helping others succeed. Through every 
stage of his life, he embodied the values of determination, humility, 
and service, leaving an enduring impact on the countless individuals 
whose lives he touched.
  Most importantly, Mr. Speaker, Roger is known for his deep love of 
family and friends, the kindness he shows to those around him, and his 
extraordinary leadership, mentorship, and commitment to community 
service. His contributions to athletics, business, and the people of 
Lowell have strengthened the fabric of the city and created a legacy 
that will endure for generations, one defined by service, generosity, 
and impact. His legacy is truly unforgettable and everlasting.

                          ____________________