H. George Hedquist

Hjalmar “George” Hedquist, 87, of Putnam, CT, (formerly North Smithfield, RI) passed away peacefully on April 10, 2025 in his home, surrounded by his beloved family, friends and his cat Oreo.

George was the devoted husband of Jeannette R. (LaCroix) Hedquist, with whom he recently celebrated 65 wonderful years of marriage, having wed on March 5, 1960.

Born in Providence, he was the cherished son of the late Oakie Hedquist Sr. and Blanche (Olson) Hedquist of Warwick.  He was also predeceased by his older brother Oakie Hedquist Jr. of Warwick.

A dedicated and hardworking man, George was a proud truck driver for the Teamsters Local #251. Over the years, he drove for Darcy Express, Calore Express, Roadway Express, Cardi Corp as well as his own business; George & Son’s Trucking before retiring in 2005.

George had a deep love for hosting large gatherings for family and friends. For many years, all would gather at Harkness Road in North Smithfield for massive cookouts, parties, BBQs, and clam bakes. These gatherings were grand in every aspect, complete with a full outdoor stage that George built himself to provide entertainment. An Elvis impersonator, Hank Turgeon, was a favorite performer, bringing joy to all who attended. Harkness Road holds a special place in the hearts of the Hedquist family, a place filled with cherished memories. The song "Tattoos on This Town" by Jason Aldean perfectly encapsulates the life and times of the Hedquist family from 1979-2008

Beyond his profession, George found joy in life’s simple pleasures. He was an avid camper, enjoyed hunting, and was a passionate NASCAR and stock car racing enthusiast, actively involved in the racing community for many years. He enjoyed working on his 31-acre farm and garden, essentially living off the land. His farm included steers, chickens, rabbits, a pony, Bandit the raccoon, as well as many beloved family pets. His vegetable gardens encompassed several acres of land. His many skills included auto mechanics, auto body work, wrought iron craftsmanship, pallet repair, stump grinding, and gardening. A true "Jack of all Trades," he loved tinkering and spending time socializing in his garage, always ready to lend a helping hand.

Above all else, George treasured the time spent with his family and friends. He is survived by his loving wife, Jeannette, and their children: George Hedquist and his fiancée, Terry, of Woonsocket; Ronald Hedquist Sr. and his wife, Kathleen, of Warwick; Roland Hedquist Sr. and his wife, Lee-Ann, of North Smithfield; Sharon "Sissy" Brunelle and her husband, Troy, of Thompson, CT; Brenda Lambert and her significant other, Steve, of Cumberland; and Dale Hedquist and his wife, Kelli, of Lincoln.

He was predeceased by his son, Daniel Hedquist Sr. and grandson, Roland "Bud" Hedquist Jr.

George's legacy lives on through his wife, children, 27 grandchildren and 58 great-grandchildren.

For 29 years, George and Jeannette opened their hearts and home as foster parents, creating lifelong bonds with many of the children in their care. He also leaves behind his bonus children: Sandra, Tina, Paula, Tanya, Laura, Kim, Miriam and many others who became cherished members of his extended family along with their children and grandchildren.

George’s kindness, wisdom, and unwavering love will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. His memory will forever remain in the hearts of those he touched.

Visitation will be held Saturday, April 19, 2025 from 11:15 AM – 1:15 PM in the Holt Funeral Home, 510 So. Main St., Woonsocket. In lieu of flowers may be made to St. Jude's Children's Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105 or the American Cancer Society, PO Box 6704, Hagerstown, MD 21741

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