Salem: Roland E. ‘Cookie’ Jalbert age 77 of Salem, died Tuesday, September 7, 2010 at Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston. He was the devoted husband of Carole A. ‘Billie’ (Irzyk) Jalbert with whom he shared 48 years of marriage.
Born and raised in Salem he was the son of the late Charles and Malvina (Gagnon) Jalbert. A graduate of Salem High where he excelled in sports, ‘Cookie’ began working for Creese & Cook Leather Co., after his graduation. During the Korean Conflict, he served in France with the Army. Following his tour of duty, he returned to Salem and continued with Creese & Cook in a foreman and later managerial capacity. He retired in 1984. Throughout his career, Cookie worked part time with Mizioch Witham Caterers of Peabody.
Cookie was an avid sports fan throughout his life. He coached sports events while his children were involved in sports and took exceptional delight in watching his grandchildren’s athletic events. He was a member of the Salem Knights of Columbus, Council # 76 and bowled on several leagues. He was also a member of St. Thomas the Apostle Parish.
In addition to his wife Billie, he is survived by two sons, Wayne C. Jalbert and his wife Kathleen of Danvers, Scott R. Jalbert and his wife Kimberly of Salem, a daughter, Debbie A. Consoles of Middleton, his grandchildren, Christina, Nikki Ann & Michael Consoles, Nicholas & Matthew Jalbert and Christopher Jalbert, a brother Arthur Jalbert of Salem, a sister, Malvina Martel and her husband Joseph ‘Paul’ of Salem, a son-in-law, Michael Consoles of Topsfield, as well as many nieces, nephews, grandnieces, and grandnephews.
Relatives and friends are invited to gather at the Levesque Funeral Home, 163 Lafayette St. [Rt. 114 / 1-A] Salem on Friday, September 10, 2010 at 10:45 a.m. to be followed by his funeral mass in St. Thomas the Apostle Church, on the Salem / Peabody line at 12 noon. Visiting hours: Thursday 4 to 8 p.m. Burial will be in St. Mary’s Cemetery, Salem. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the National Kidney Foundation of MA, RI, NH & VT, 85 Astor Ave., Suite 2, Norwood, MA 02062 or the American Heart Assoc. 20 Speen St., Framingham, MA 01701. For guestbook and additional information, please visit www.LevesqueFunerals.com