Salem – Wilfred T. Rochon, retired Salem Fire Fighter, loving husband of Barbara A. (Tardiff) Rochon, passed away Wednesday evening, October 19, 2016 at the NSMC – Salem Hospital surrounded by his devoted family.

Born in Salem on July 29, 1937, he was the son of the late Joseph S. and Josephine (Szczepanek)  Rochon.  Wilfred has lived in Salem all of his life and was a graduate of Salem Vocational High School in the class of 1955.

Following High School, he entered the United States Air Force and served his country during the Korean War.  Mr. Rochon was very proud of his service for his Country and was a long time member of the Polish Falcons of America, Salem Nest 188, the Polish Legion of American Veterans U.S.A. Post #55, Vittori-Rocci ITAM War Veterans Post 56 in Beverly, Italian Community Center Beverly, the Herman A. Spear Post #331 and the American Legion in Beverly where he was very active with their Color Guard, Honor Guard and Rifle Squad.

Mr. Rochon was a veteran Firefighter for the City of Salem for over 36 years, retiring on December 1, 2000.  During his career with the Salem Fire Department he was a past president and trustee of the Salem Fireman's Relief Association  and a member of the International Association of Firefighters Local 172.

Fred had a lifelong love for the ocean and enjoyed fishing and boating.  He was an avid fisherman enjoying his time with his son and grandson.

Surviving him in addition to his beloved wife Barbara with who he shared 57 years of marriage are his son, Mark  T. Rochon and his wife Donna (Conway) Rochon of Peabody, his grandchildren Kristine Rochon of Lynn, Kimberly Rochon and Scott Rochon both of Peabody, his great grandchildren, Kelsey Thurston and Nathan and Tyler Cream, his brother Louis W. Rochon of Georgetown, his sister Ms. Isabelle M. Doucette of Haverhill and several nieces and nephews.

Visiting hours will be held on Monday October 24, 2016 at the Murphy Funeral Home, 85 Federal St. (corner of North St) Salem  from 4:00 to 8:00 P.M.  His funeral will be held from the Murphy Funeral Home, 85 Federal St., (corner of North St) Salem on Tuesday, October 25, 2016 at 10:15 a.m. followed by a Funeral Mass at 11:00 A.M. at St. James Church, 160 Federal St, Salem at 11:00 A.M.   Interment immediately following in Greenlawn Cemetery, Salem.  For those who wish, memorial contributions may be made to the Salem Firefighter's Relief Association, 48 Lafayette St., Salem, MA  01970.  For additional information or online guest book please call 978 744 0497 or visit www.MurphyFuneralHome.com .