Emile Ernest Racenet, 77, of Ancram, N.Y., formerly of Bethel, died peacefully May 7. He was born December 17, 1938, on Governor's Island, N.Y., and was raised in Southbury, where he graduated from high school.www.munsonloveterefuneralhome.comOnline condolences can be made at

He served in the United States Navy from 1956 to 1962.

His wife of 58 years, Patricia J. Racenet; his children Sandra Cortopassi of Newtown, and Kathleen Lindley and Emile "Butch" Racenet, Jr, both of Bethel; his brother and sister-in-law Jules and Lavonne Racenet of Southbury; his grandchildren Daniel Lindley, Elizabeth Racenet, Rachel, Michele, and Jessica Petersen; four great-grandchildren; and nieces and nephews survive Mr Racenet. His granddaughter, Emily Ann Racenet, predeceased him.

Mr Racenet worked many years at Hayes Chevrolet in New Milford as an auto mechanic.

He was a member of the Stony Hill Volunteer Fire Department for close to 40 years, serving as an assistant chief for many years, and then chief from 1983 to 1985. He then pursued his dream and started his own landscaping business, in 1986, with his son Emile, Jr.

After retirement the Racenets moved to Ancram, to a 25-plus-acre farm he absolutely loved, raising chickens, heifers, and even bees. Mr Racenet was loved and respected by all who knew him.

Family and friends may call on Wednesday, May 11, from 4 to 8 pm, at the Munson-Lovetere Funeral Home, 235 Main Street, Southbury. A private burial will take place at the New North Cemetery in Woodbury.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a memorial donation to the Regional Hospice of Danbury, 30 Milestone Road, Danbury CT 06810.

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