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Obituaries listed according to date of death click on name for full obituary and service information.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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February, 2016

 

 

 

Henry L. McAuliffe, Jr.

Juanita M. Haerer

Peter Alden Johnston Hodgen

 

 

 

 

January 2016

 

 

 

Marcia M. Rodgers

Betty L. Davis

Nancy M. Florence

Derek M. DeLisle

Eleanor Cardello

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

December, 2015

 

 

 

Kathryn J. Winters

William C. Schumaker

Gordon D. Ivester

Jean H. Quinlan

John K. Allen

Mary R. Norris

Gertrude S. McManus

Frank S. Chochrek

 

 

 

 

November, 2015

 

 

 

Alice R. Murray

Mary A. Apigian

Joseph R. Dodwell

Wendel G. Johnson

William G. Lee

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

October, 2015

 

 

 

Stephen C. May

Anna H. White

Gayle L. Burke

James R. Atkins

Joseph Pizzano

Nicholas L. Grant

Ester V. Zeimetz

Francis E. Donnelly, Jr

Mildred G. "Millie" Schofield

Eilene A. Fichera

 

 

 

 

 

September, 2015

 

 

 

John P.Collins, Sr.

Helen E. DeLisle

Joseph G. O'Neill

Pearl Gibbons (Service Time)

Gaye E. O'Brien

Paul Woods

Robert W. Russo

Dorothy M. Gallant

Mary E. Rollins

 

 

 

 

 

 

August, 2015

 

 

 

Leslie J. Hudson

Rev. Joseph Simone

Fred R. Chalmers

Pearl B. Gibbons

 

 

 

 

July, 2015

 

 

 

Dorothy T. Jackson

Philip C. Gonnam

Mindy Lee Nesbitt

 

 

 

 

June, 2015

 

 

 

Margaret H. Davis

Wallace A. King

Barbara A. O’Brien

Richard W. Svehla

Allan R. Nelson

George R. Bugley, II

 

 

 

May 2015

 

 

 

Henry W. Waters

Patricia M. Sully

Robert G. Coffill, Sr.

George E. Rightmyer

John A. Cumming

Elizabeth A. Rideout

Joel M. Brush

Donald W. Berridge

Leo Petti

Walter E. Ladd, Jr.

 

 

 

April, 2015

 

 

 

Beverly A. Viveiros

Jacquelyn B. Papia

Joseph L. Viveiros

Agrippino Cardello

Paul H. Barton

Murray E. Wolf

Nancy J. Doucette

Paul J. "Buddy" Woods

Charles J. Reagan

 

 

 

March, 2015

 

 

 

June F. Fiske

Edward McKenzie

AnnaBelle Sentas

Donna T. Lynch

 

 

 

February, 2015

 

 

 

Joseph P. Gill

Gerald W. LaVigne

Anthony Branchini

Deborah A. Crane

William T. Nickerson, III

Richard Allen Mayo

Anthony R. Gurliaccio

Betty Ann Meuse

Karen Stickney

 

 

 

January, 2015

 

 

 

A. Rita McKendry

Juanita Cafiso

Armelia A. Cameron

Philip S. Shapleigh

Albert E. Sylvia

Keith David Barr

 

 

 

 

 

2013 Obituaries

 

 

 

2014 Obituaries

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  

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Peter Alden  Johnston Hodgen – 71, of Ayer, MA and formerly of Gardner, MA, died unexpectedly on Monday, February 15, 2016, at the Nashoba Valley Medical Center in Ayer.  He fought a courageous battle against cancer for the past 17 years. 

Born in Hartford, CT on March 4, 1944.  He was the son of the late Joseph W. Hodgen and Edna Mae (Taylor) Hodgen.  Peter was a U.S. Army Veteran, he was SP4 and he served from 1961 to 1964.  He was a graduate of Mount Wachusett Community College.

Peter worked for the Digital Equipment Corporation for over 30 years and was a Production Manager. He was a member of the Granite United Church in Salem, NH and a prior member of the Bethany Baptist Church in Gardner. 

He was kind-hearted, loving, intelligent, and strong-willed with a great sense of humor.  He loved life, enjoyed traveling, and riding his Harley Davidson across the country. He was a Boston Marathon runner.  In his spare time, he was an avid reader, enjoyed feeding the hummingbirds, and gardening. He enjoyed golf and spending time with his friends and family. Most of all, he was a man of integrity who was dedicated to his family and to God. Everyone who knew him loved him. He will be remembered for his loving smile, kindness, and generosity. He will be sadly missed by all, but NEVER forgotten.

Family members include his loving wife, Justyne  A. (Johnson) Hodgen of Ayer and his former wife Georgette Hodgen of Gardner; daughters, Giselle Knight and her husband Steven of Wilton, NH, Shelby Hodgen and her fiancé Eric Harris of Brooklyn, NY; Candi, Erika and Hope Peguero of Methuen;  brothers, John Hodgen and his wife Doreen of Shrewsbury, Joseph Hodgen of Virginia Beach, VA and Colin Mark Hodgen of Reno, NV;  grandchildren, Colby and Charlotte Knight of Wilton, NH; Elijah and Kylee Henriquez of Methuen and Brayden Bourassa of Lawrence.

There will be a celebration to honor Peter and his life on March 12, 2016 at 10 AM to 1PM at the Granite United Church, 1 Sand Hill Rd., Salem, NH 03079. In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made in his memory to: Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Attention: Dr. David McDermott/Kidney Cancer Research, 375 Longwood Ave., Masco 412, Boston, MA 02215.  Arrangements are by the Croswell Funeral Home, 19 Bow St., North Reading.

 

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Juanita M. (White) Haerer  - Owner of Kitty’s  Restaurant, 79, of North Reading and formerly of Woburn, died peacefully at her home on Tuesday, February 16, 2016, after a brave illness with cancer. She was the beloved wife of the late Frederick  S. Haerer.

Born in Woburn, MA on December 24, 1936.  Juanita was raised and attended school in Woburn. She has been a resident of North Reading for over 60 years and was a member of St. Theresa’s Church.

Juanita was an owner of Kitty’s Restaurant, along with her late brothers George and Ronnie White.  Kitty’s was a legacy that was passed down from the late George White, her father and Yolanda Susan (Brogna) White, her mother “Sissy” and  Mary Brogna, her loving aunt.

Juanita worked with her family for her entire life. She had many regular customers, whom she cared deeply about and lifelong friends and our employees that were and are associated with Kitty’s that became her extended family. 

Juanita was a loving mom, wife, sister, daughter, cousin, grandmother, great grandmother, aunt and friend. Her compassion was infectious and her love was felt by everyone that touched her life. Some of the best memories were at “camp” on Newfound Lake. Juanita was known for her beautiful flowers and oversized vegetables, gardening was her favorite. She loved to travel, she enjoyed Salisbury Beach, Plum Island, Florida, St. Thomas, Bermuda, Las Vegas with her mother and siblings, Newfound lake with her family, sightseeing, sailing, skiing, she loved to read and learn, and she also enjoyed quilting and knitting.

Juanita was an amazing baker and preserving her bounties from her garden. She volunteered for the Walk for Hunger, cooking and serving the homeless at the Paulist Center, as well as St. Basil.

Family members include her loving children, Denise A. Haerer of North Reading, Kim S. Callahan of Epping, NH and her late son, James G. Haerer;  Grammie Wa’s” 8 grandchildren, Nicole, Jonny, Tammie, Dustin, Shayne, Sabrina, Jacob and Joshua;  great grandchildren, Sydnie, Jason and Lilliana;  sister-in-laws, Rita White, Nancy White, Pat White and the late Lorraine White;  also survived by many loving cousins, nieces and nephews.  She was the sister of the late Ronnie White, George White and Robert White. 

Her Funeral will be held from the Croswell Funeral Home, 19 Bow Street, North Reading on Monday, February 22 at 9:15 AM, followed by a 10:30 AM Funeral Mass at St. Theresa’s Church. Calling hours will be held on Sunday from 4 to 8 PM. Burial will be in Wildwood Cemetery in Wilmington.  Memorial donations may be made in her memory to the Food Pantry of your choice. www.croswellfuneralhome.com

 

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Henry  L. McAuliffe, Jr., Captain USMC, Ret. – 78, of North Reading and formerly of Lynn, died at his home on Thursday, February 4, 2016.

Born in Lynn, MA on January 12, 1938.  He was the son of the late Esther (Greene) and Henry L. McAuliffe, Sr.  He was raised in Lynn and was a graduate of St. John’s Prep, Class of 1955 and Boston College, Class of 1960.

He worked for many years as a Sales Consultant. He was a retired U.S. Marine Corps Veteran and served as Captain. Henry was a resident of North Reading for the past 48 years and was a member of St. Theresa’s Church.

He was a loving son, husband, grandfather, uncle, cousin and friend. He was an Avid B.C. Football Fan, a member of the Wardroom Club in Boston, Semper Fidelis Society and the Meadow Larks of Lynn.

Family members include his beloved wife of 48 years, Denise (Manning) McAuliffe; his loving son, Michael McAuliffe and his wife Kim of North Reading; loving daughters, Beth Matthews and her husband Rob of Groveland and Lisa Snyder and her husband Ryan of Haverhill; cherished grandchildren, Madeline and Casey McAuliffe, Samantha and Sydney Matthews, Colin and Brendan Snyder.

His Funeral will be held from the Croswell Funeral Home, 19 Bow Street, North Reading on Tuesday, February 9 at 9:15 AM, followed by a 10:30 AM Funeral Mass at St. Theresa’s Church, 63 Winter Street (Rt.62), North Reading. Calling hours will be held on Monday, February 8 from 4 to 8 PM.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in his memory to: New England Province of Jesuits, P.O. Box 9199, Watertown, MA 02471-9199. www.croswellfuneralhome.com

 

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Eleanor Cardello, 85

Dedicated Wife & Mother

 

Eleanor (Columbare) Cardello of Danvers and formerly of North Reading, died of complications due to Parkinson's disease at her home on Saturday at midnight / Sunday AM, January 31, 2016. She was the beloved wife of the late Agrippino “Pete” Cardello, who died this past April. 16, 2015. Born in Malden, MA on June 17,1930, she was the daughter of the late Henry V. and Libra (Candelora) Columbare

She was a graduate of Malden High School, Class of 1948.

Eleanor's 1st job was making candy at Schrafft's Candy Co. Charlestown, MA.  She was also a Saleswoman at Grants Dept. Store from 1952 to 1955 before becoming the best domestic engineer / homemaker for her family and famous for her delicious meatballs. Eleanor was dedicated to her family, she loved to crack a good joke and cook a great meal for all. Eleanor was a resident of Putnam Farms at Danvers for the past 6 years and a former resident of North Reading for 50 years. She was a member of St. Theresa’s Church for 50 years.

Eleanor's surviving Family members include her loving daughter, Pat (Cardello) Ceasar and her husband Scott R. Ceasar of Montclair, NJ;  her son Peter Cardello and his wife Madeline Cardello of Topsfield, her grandson, Matthew Cardello of Topsfield. Her Aunt, Theresa (CandeloraRauseo.of Wakefield, MA; brother Dennis Columbare of Maine and niece, Debbie Marcionek  of Newburyport,  MA along with many other niece's, nephews dear friends and neighbors.

Her wake will be held at Croswell Funeral Home, 19 Bow Street, North Reading. Calling hours will be held on Friday, February 5th from 1 to 3 PM and 4 to 7:30 PM. Final calling hours will be held Sat., Feb. 6th at 9:30 AM to 10:30 AM at Croswell Funeral Home, 19 Bow Street, North Reading followed by a 11 AM Funeral Mass at St. Theresa’s Church, 63 Winter Street (Rt. 62), North Reading.  Burial will be in Riverside Cemetery in North Reading. Followed by a luncheon for all family & friends at Teresa's Function Hall, 20 Elm St. (Rt. 62), North Reading, MA. 

If you wish to send flowers, they may be obtained from Boston Flower Market and Galleria , 1-978-664-5774  . Memorial donations may be made in Eleanor Cardello's name to Parkinson's Research at The Michael J. Fox Foundation. www.mchaelifox.prg/Donate ; www.croswellfuneralhome.com

 

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Derek Michael DeLisle - 31, of Tewksbury died Saturday, January 30, 2016.

Born in Winchester, MA on October 1, 1984. He was a graduate of Shawsheen Technical School in Billerica. Derek worked at Tewksbury State Hospital for many years as a Maintenance Technician.

 

He was the beloved son of Holly (Florence) DeLisle and David M. DeLisle and cherished brother to Kelly, Bobby and Joshua DeLisle. Devoted Uncle to nephews, Dylan and Blake Walker.

 

Derek's pure athleticism and raw natural talent in sports led him to be the captain of his wrestling team at Shawsheen Tech, with a drive to be the best at whatever he set his mind to. He was a strong role model for his younger siblings. His childlike sense of humor brought joy and laughter to those around him. He took great pleasure in teaching WWF wrestling moves to his nephews on the trampoline, much to their delight. Derek had a great talent for drawing and he loved his music intensely.

 

His funeral will be held at Croswell Funeral Home, 19 Bow Street, North Reading on Wednesday, February 10 at 10:00 AM.  Calling hours will be held prior to service from 9:00 to 10:00 AM Interment will be held in Wildwood Cemetery in Wilmington.

 www.croswellfuneralhome.com

 

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Nancy  M. (Croswell)  Florence – 83, of North Reading, died Saturday, Janurary 9, 2016, at the Lahey Hospital and Medical Center in Burlington. She was the beloved wife of the late Robert E. Florence.

Born in North Reading on October 25, 1932.  She was the daughter of the late Ralph E., Sr. and Bessie (Cook) Croswell. Nancy was a lifelong resident of North  Reading. She attended North Reading Public Schools and was a graduate of Reading High School.

Nancy was a Quality Control Inspector for over 35 years, she worked for Sweetheart Plastics and then for SOLO Cup. She was a devoted loving mother and grandmother. She was known for being a dedicated worker and her great sense of humor. 

Family members include her loving children, Jeffery Florence and his wife Chrissy of Palmer;   Nancy Lundgren and her husband Richard of Andover, Trisha Noonan and her husband Doug of Fredrick, MD, Marie DeLisle and her husband Steve of North Reading, Sandra Florence of Middleton, Heidi McMinn and her husband Mike of Holden, Holly DeLisle of Tewksbury, Laurie Morse of Salem, NH, Lynnann Florence of Canaan, ME, Lynda Florence of North Reading and Wendy Florence of Lawrence; daughter-in-law, Doreen Berridge of Methuen; loving grandmother of 23 grandchildren and 20 great grandchildren. She was the mother of the late Donald Berridge, Robert Michael Florence and Stephen Florence and sister of the late Ralph E. Croswell, Jr. and George T. Croswell.

Her funeral services will be private and are under the direction of the Croswell Funeral Home, 19 Bow Street, North Reading.  In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made in her memory to American Heart Association/ American Stroke Association, P.O. Box 417005, Boston, MA 02241-7005.

 

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Betty Louise (Currier) Davis, 84, of North Reading passed away peacefully Wednesday, Jan. 6, 2016, surrounded by family.
 
Betty was born May 12, 1931, in Everett and raised in Melrose, graduating from Melrose High School in 1949 and attending nurses training at Melrose Hospital. She and her high school sweetheart, John E. Davis, Jr, were married in 1951 and moved to North Reading in 1954. They devoted their lives to each other and to raising a happy family, parting only when John passed away two years ago. Now they are rejoined in eternity along with their youngest child, John Michael. Betty is predeceased by her parents, Phineas and Ellen (Virgin) Currier.

 

Betty and John are survived by her children, Jayne M. Downing and her husband Paul of Methuen, Jeanne M. Arena and her husband Joe of Milford, NH, Joseph E. Davis and his wife Kristine of North Reading, Joanne M. Davis of Melrose, James E. Davis and his wife Mary of Middleton, and John J. Davis and his wife Beth of King George, VA, as well as her brother David and sisters, Pauline and Virginia. Betty's long life revolved around her family. Betty and John enjoyed traveling and exploring new places, in the early years on camping excursions with their children, and in later years seeing the world together, including trips to Ireland and Italy. But when the camping gear was stowed and the AAA maps put away, they were happiest when in the company of their children and twelve grandchildren, John, Amanda,  Matthew, and Paul Downing, Emily and Amy Arena, Erin and Patrick Davis, Lindsey, Kelly, Bill and his wife Hannah Davis, and James L Davis. Whether it was at a cookout in the backyard on Kingston Street or at one of their children's houses, at a youth ballgame or school concert, or taking the gang down to Revere Beach where Betty and John and their friends had hung out as teenagers in another era, Betty and John were all about spending quality time with family.

 

Betty and John moved to North Reading in 1954. They came to love their new home town and cherished the friendship of their neighbors and of the people they met through church (St. Theresa's) and through their children's school and athletic activities. They almost never missed a town meeting and always were very supportive of the town's school system and hard-working teachers. Betty spent many years volunteering in the library at the E. Ethel Little School, where all of her children went to grade school.

 

Betty's passions outside of family were reading and bowling. During winter months she enjoyed weekly bowling outings at Candlewood Lanes with a group of friends. Due to a heart disorder, her doctor discouraged her from working for health reasons and advised her that she'd be putting herself at risk if she tried to have any children. The rest is history. Good bye, Mom. We love you. Now you're back with your beloved Jack and we're happy for both of you.


Her funeral will be private from the Croswell Funeral Home, 19 Bow Street, North Reading on Saturday, January 9 at 9:00 a.m. followed by an 11:00 a.m. Funeral Mass at St. Theresa Church, 63 Winter Street, (Rt. 62), North Reading. Burial will be in Riverside Cemetery in North Reading. In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made in her memory to North Reading Dollars for Scholars (CSF), P.O. Box 529, North Reading, MA, 01864-0529.

 

 

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Marcia  M.  Rodgers – 68, of Danvers, formerly of Andover and North Reading, died at her home on Saturday,  January 2, 2016.

Born in Winchester, MA on August 29, 1947.  She was the daughter of the late Ernest H. and Alida A. (Fox) Rodgers. She was raised and attended school in North Reading and was a graduate of North Reading High School, Class of 1967. 

Marcia was an Assembly worker for Transitron in Wakefield and later for Lucent Technologies in North Andover.  She enjoyed the Telephone Pioneers of Western Electric, loved the New England Patriots, knitting and traveling to New Hampshire. Marcia especially enjoyed going to the Topsfield Fair.

Family members include her loving brother, Donald B. Rodgers and his wife Donna M. of Derry, NH; her late brother, Alan E. Rodgers and late sister, Diana J. Lavey;   sister-in-law, Betty Rodgers of North Reading and brother-in-law, Michael A. Lavey of Burlington.  She is also survived by many nieces and nephews, grandnieces and grandnephews.

Her funeral will be held from the Croswell Funeral Home, 19 Bow St., North Reading on Wednesday, January 6 at 9:15 AM, followed by a 10:30 AM Funeral Mass at St. Theresa’s Church, 63 Winter St., (Rt.62), North Reading. Calling hours will be held on Tuesday, January 5 from 4 to 8 PM.  Burial will be in Riverside Cemetery in North Reading. Memorial donations may be made in her memory to: New England Home for the Deaf, 154 Water St., Danvers, MA 01923 or to the charity of one’s choice. www.croswellfuneralhome

 

 

Frank  S. Chochrek79, of North Reading and formerly of Woburn, died Monday, December 28, 2015 at Winchester Hospital. Born in Cambridge, MA on July 23, 1936. He was the son of the late Thomas and Anna (Ferus) Chochrek.

He attended Cambridge High and Latin. Frank owned and operated his own business, Polar Replacement Windows. He was a patent holder for a unique shade bracket for replacement window installation.  He has been a resident of North Reading for the past thirty years and he attended St. Theresa’s Church.

Frank had a gruff exterior with a heart of gold. He was a generous, sweet, kind and a caring person. He enjoyed golf, bowling, the Red Sox and bird watching.

Family members include his loving wife of 59 years, Lois (Egan) Chochrek; sons, Michael Chochrek and his wife Marie of Salisbury and Thomas Chochrek and his wife Donna of St. Petersburg, FL; daughters, Cheryl Chochrek and her husband Bill Schiek of Georgetown, Sandra Graham of Wells, ME, Wendy Chochrek of North Reading and Lisa Chochrek and her companion Michael Ryan of Wakefield; 10 grandchildren, three great grandchildren and one great-great grandchild. He was predeceased by five brothers and one sister.   

His funeral will be held from the Croswell Funeral Home, 19 Bow Street, North Reading on Thursday, December 31 at 8:45 AM, followed by a 10 AM Funeral Mass  at St. Theresa’s Church, 63 Winter Street (Rt. 62), North Reading. Calling hours will be held on Wednesday, December 30 from 4 to 8 PM. Burial will be in Riverside Cemetery in North Reading. In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made in his memory to: St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, PO Box 1000, Dept. 142, Memphis, TN 38101-9908. www. croswellfuneralhome.com

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Gertrude  S. (Dahlquist) McManus – 92, of North Reading and formerly of Reading, died Wednesday, December 23, 2015 at Winchester Hospital. She was the beloved wife of the late James P. McManus.

Born in Reading, MA on July 5, 1923. She was the daughter of the late, Ernest and Helga (Hansen) Dahlquist. She was raised and attended school in Reading and was a graduate of Reading High School.

Gertrude worked as a bartender for Bob White’s Princeton Lounge in Chelmsford for many years. She has been a resident of North Reading for the past 55 years.

She was a very generous and caring person who always enjoyed entertaining at her home. She was an avid Boston Sports Fan and enjoyed playing Bingo.

Family members include her loving sons, Dana McManus and his wife Sandra of Danvers and the late James P. “Rusty” McManus, Jr.; her daughters, Cindy McManus and Daphne McManus, both of North Reading; her sister, Winifred Colburn of North Reading, the late Elizabeth Dahlquist and her late brother, Gunnar Dahlquist; ten grandchildren, Damon, Bonnie and Guy McManus, Bobby, Heather and Michelle Barkhouse, Ricky and Alicia Ward, Rachel and Sarah McManus  and three great grandchildren. 

Her funeral will be held at the Union Congregational Church, 148 Haverhill Street, North Reading on Tuesday, December 29, at 10 AM. Calling hours will be held at the Croswell Funeral Home, 19 Bow Street, North Reading on Monday, December 28 from 4 to 8 PM. Burial will be in Wildwood Cemetery in Wilmington.

In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made in her memory to: Elks Foundation, 777 South Street, Tewksbury, MA 01876, attention:  ENS, c/o Alan Rock. www.croswellfuneralhome.com

 

 

Mary  R.  (Roux)  Norris – 76, of North Reading, died unexpectedly on Tuesday, December 22, 2015.

Born in Dover, NH on May 25,1939, she was the daughter of the late Raymond and Margaret (Robinson) Roux. She was a graduate of Catholic Girls School in Dover, NH and Sacred Heart School of Nursing in Manchester, NH.

Mary worked as a Registered Nurse, she later worked as a teacher for the North Reading Public School System and as a tutor. She volunteered for the elderly and was a CCD Teacher. She was President of the Friends of Austin and Austin Athletic Association. Mary has been a resident of North Reading for since 1963 and was a member of St. Theresa’s Church.

Mary was very generous, thoughtful and she loved to laugh. She took great care of her husband Jim and she loved to celebrate her favorite holiday, Christmas. She loved her grandchildren and life in general.

She loved to bake, she especially enjoyed watching the New England Patriots and the Boston Red Sox. Mary enjoyed gardening and volunteering at the Senior Center in North Reading.

Family members include her loving husband of 55 years, James T. Norris, Jr.; loving sons, James T. Norris, III and his wife Jeany of New Boston, NH, Michael R. Norris and his wife Tara of Greenwich, CT and Christopher T. Norris and his wife Nancy of Carmel, IN; grandchildren, Jack, Shea and Benjamin Norris. She was the sister of the late Thomas and Robert Roux and Ellen Shaw.

Funeral services will be private. Memorial donations may be made in her memory to:  Wounded Warriors Project, P.O. Box 758517, Topeka, KS 66675.

Arrangements are under the direction of the Croswell Funeral Home, 19 Bow Street, North Reading. www.croswellfuneralhome.com  

 

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John  K. Allen – 57, of Danvers, formerly of North Reading, died unexpectedly at his home on Monday, December 14, 2015.

Born in Lawrence, MA on June 17, 1958. He was the son of the late Albert W., Sr. and Betty E. (Ferguson) Allen. He was raised in North Reading and was a graduate of North East Regional Vocational School and he attended Southern New Hampshire Vocational College. John was a Machinist for Jones Machine, Inc. in Danvers.

He has been a resident of Danvers for the past 20 years. John had a love of golf, skiing, ice fishing and Boston professional sports.

Family members include his loving brothers, Albert W. Allen, Jr. and his wife Jo-Marie and Lawrence F. Allen and his wife Christine, all of North Andover;  sisters, Marjorie Tammick of Methuen, H. Judith Allen of Sacramento, CA and Katherine Wanglin of Manassas, VA; he was the brother of the late Russell Hall Allen and Peter C. Allen. He is also survived by many nieces and nephews.

His funeral will be held at the Croswell Funeral Home, 19 Bow Street, North Reading on Saturday, December 19 at 11 AM. Calling hours will be held prior to the service from 9 to 10:45 AM. Burial will be in Riverside Cemetery in North Reading. Memorial donations may be made in his memory to the charity of one’s choice. www.croswellfuneralhome.com 

 

 

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Jean H. (Baker) Quinlan – 90, of Reading, formerly of North Reading, died peacefully at her home on Saturday, December 12, 2015. She was the loving wife of the late Leo F. Quinlan.

Born in Boston, MA on July 25, 1925,  she was the daughter of the late Harlan and Kathleen (Homewood) Baker. Jean was a graduate of St. Ann’s High School in Arlington. She was an Instructor for the John T. Berry Rehabilitation Center in North Reading and also for private clients for the mentally and physically challenged in various cities. She was a resident of Reading for the past 20 years and a former resident of North Reading for 39 years. She was a member of St. Theresa’s Church in North Reading and St. Maria Goretti in Lynnfield.  

 Jean Quinlan, no matter how complicated and difficult her own life might be at certain times, she was committed to various causes and a set of principles she lived by. She was deeply rooted in her faith, which guided all of her life decisions. Always people and service-centered, she was a long-time Catholic, and participated in the church in many ways. She was a Eucharistic Minister and a Carmelite. She believed in Ecumenical and Interfaith work that lead to active involvement in programs and councils.

She was a civil rights activist, and in the 1960’s created a “Coffee House” program at Saint Theresa’s in North Reading to bring together white and African American residents to learn to get past their differences by hosting speakers and exploring issues. She was committed to cross-cultural and inter-religious values. She carried this work forward into the new century. She supported the works of the Poor Clares and went on frequent retreats at the House of Prayer in Gloucester, MA. She was familiar with the great Christian thinkers with a strong connection to Thomas Merton and travelled to see his hermitage with a friend, a highlight of her life. Other highlights for her included seeing Desmond Tutu in person at Grace Cathedral in San Francisco and visiting an ashram in India as part of her Interfaith work.  She followed the works of visionary architect Buckminister Fuller, and volunteered at a special Montessori School in Roxbury Mass to help underserved children find their place in the world. She, alongside her beloved husband Lee, stayed true to beliefs, sometimes at great personal risk and challenge. She believed in taking the high road. She was a progressive liberal and steward of the planet.

Most important to her, she was the founding mother and CEO of the Quinlan Clan. Together with her husband Lee, they fulfilled a dream of having a large family. Holidays were big and camping trips were arranged annually. Jean always had time for her children and grandchildren and felt her family was the center of her life. She also had time for many close friends and was never hurried when listening to whomever she was with. Jean was a world traveler, family chronicler, photographer and archivist, baker of snicker doodles.

Family members include her loving sons, Tim Quinlan of Graniteville, VT, Steve Quinlan and wife Carol Glover of Santa Fe, NM and David Quinlan and wife Nila Loftis of San Carlos, CA; daughters, Joyce Vasapoli  and husband Jack and Linda Click and her late husband Bill, all of North Reading, Robbin Godding and husband George of Manchester-By-The-Sea,MA, Nancy Quinlan of Methuen and Terey Quinlan and husband Nelson Wolfe of San Francisco, CA; her sister, Joyce Cassinari; 15 grandchildren and 12 great grandchildren; former daughters-in-law, Linda Whelan and Diana Ferguson.

Her funeral will be held from the Croswell Funeral Home, 19 Bow St., North Reading on Friday, Dec. 18 at 9:15 AM, followed by a 10:30 AM Funeral Mass at St. Theresa’s Church, 63 Winter St. (Rt. 62), North Reading. Calling hours will be held on Thursday, Dec. 17 from 4 to 8 PM. Burial will be in Puritan Lawn Memorial Park Cemetery in Peabody. In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made in her memory to: Poor Clares, 445 River Road, Andover, MA 01810, Eastern Point Retreat House (House of Prayer), 37 Niles Point Road, Gloucester, MA 01930 or to Carmelite Gift Shop and Chapel, 210 Andover St., North Shore Mall, Peabody, MA 01960.

 

 

 

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http://www.croswellfuneralhome.com/Pictures/flag.jpgGordon D. Ivester - Of Concord,NH, formerly of North Reading, died December 10, 2015, at the age of  96. He was born on Dec.13, 1918 to the late George H. Ivester and Mary S. (Mansfield) Ivester. 5 sisters predeceased Gordon. Velma Donahue, Doris Jackson, Merna McClellan, Eileen VanNorden, Edith Ivester and one brother John Ivester. His longtime friend Edie Sias also predeceased Gordon. They shared many adventures traveling the country and enjoyed square dancing.

Gordon graduated from Medford High School, Class of 1937. He enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1940 and proudly served in World War II as an ambulance driver, receiving the Good Conduct Metal, American Defense Service Metal and the Bronze Star. He was a lifetime member of The Big Red One (1st Infantry Division). After the war he graduated from Franklin Institute in Boston. Gordon worked for the Boston Naval Shipyard as a sheet metal mechanic, retiring after 21 years to become self employed painting and wallpapering.

Gordon enjoyed horseshoes, bowling, square dancing, traveling and reading. He took care of his beloved mother at home until she was 103. Gordon was a humble, caring and charitable person with a good sense of humor and a positive never quit attitude. 

Gordon was the beloved Uncle to Mary Clinkscale and her husband Bob of Framingham, MA, Edith Russell of Hollis, NH, Lester Guest and his wife Faith of Lowell, MA, the late John Guest and his wife Louise, Carrol Schnee and her husband Ralph of Lancaster, PA.  Gerald McClellan and his wife Kathy of Medford, MA, the late Norman McClellan, Richard VanNorden and his wife Sandra of Benton, NH. Dean VanNorden and his wife Linda of Loudon, NH. Janice Kasey and her husband Tom of Chelmsford, MA, the late Robert VanNorden, Debi Bois of Tujunga, CA and Keith Donahue of Maine. He is also survived by many friends and great neighbors. He will be truly missed but in our thoughts forever.

A Memorial Service celebrating Gordon’s life will be held at the Croswell Funeral Home, 19 Bow Street, North Reading on Saturday, January 2, at 11 AM, Visitation will be held prior to the service from 10 to 11 AM. Immediately following the service all are welcomed for a collation at Teresa’s Prime, 20 Elm Street (Rt. 62), North Reading. Directions to Theresa's Prime In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made in his memory to the charity of one’s choice.

 

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http://www.croswellfuneralhome.com/Pictures/flag.jpgWilliam  CSchumaker81, of Gardiner, Maine and formerly of North Reading, died unexpectedly at his home on Wednesday, December 9, 2015.

Born in Chelsea, MA on April 3, 1934. He was the son of the late Laurence and Agnes (Murphy) Schumaker. He was a graduate of Reading Memorial High School. Bill was a North Reading Firefighter for 20 years, retired in 1991. Bill was a U.S. Marine Corps Veteran of the Korean Conflict, he was a Corporal and served from 1954 to 1956.  

He was a former resident of North Reading 68 years.  Bill was a member of the Firefighter’s Local 1857 and a former member of the North Reading Loyal Order of Moose.

He has been a resident Gardiner, Maine for the past 13 years and member of St. Michael’s Church.

He loved life, his family and Bottle Lake. He enjoyed playing Cribbage or any card games. Bill loved travelling around the country, hunting with his buddies, lunch with his friends, listening to his books and going to the casinos.

Family members include his loving wife of 58 years, Carol A. (Caldwell) Schumaker; his sons, Karl Schumaker of North Reading and Kurt Schumaker and his wife Kris of South Carolina; his daughter, Ann Allen and her husband Eric of Chelmsford; brothers, Lawrence Schumaker of FL and  John “Barry” Schumaker of NH;  sisters, Susan Lindkvist of ME, Nancy Schachter of KY and Johanne Paula of Nahant. Also survived by 3 grandchildren.

His funeral will be held from the Croswell Funeral Home, 19 Bow Street, North Reading  on Tuesday, December 15 at 9 AM, followed by a 10:30 AM Funeral Mass at St. Theresa’s Church, 63 Winter Street, North Reading. Calling hours will be held on Monday, December 14 from 4 to 8 PM. Burial will be in Riverside Cemetery in North Reading. In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made in his memory to, North Reading Firefighter’s Relief Association, 152 Park Street, North Reading, MA 01864. www.croswellfuneralhome.com   

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Kathryn  J. (Repucci)  Winters – 72, of North Reading and formerly of Somerville, died Wednesday, December 9, 2015 at Winchester Hospital, after a long illness.

Born in Somerville, MA on February 5, 1943. She was the daughter of the late Michael and Catherine L. (Schwartz) Repucci.  Kathryn was raised and attended school in Somerville and was a graduate of Somerville High School.

 She was homemaker and has been a resident of North Reading for the past fifty years. She loved giving to others and donated to many charities, helping those in need. Kathryn enjoyed reading, cooking and watching Fox News.

Family members include her loving husband of 52 years, Robert E. Winters; her son, Robert J. Winters of Middleton; her brother, Robert Repucci of Somerville and  late sister, Ann (Repucci) Burke. She is also survived by many nieces and nephews.

Calling hours will be held at the Croswell Funeral Home, 19 Bow Street, North Reading on Saturday, December 12 from 10 to 12:45 AM, followed by a prayer service.

In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made in Kathryn’s memory to her favorite charities, Wounded Warrior Project, Saint Jude, Pine Street Inn, Breast Cancer Society or to the Food Pantry. www.croswellfuneralhome.com

 

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http://www.croswellfuneralhome.com/Pictures/flag.jpgWilliam  G. “Bill”  Lee – Vietnam Veteran, age 69, of North Reading and formerly of Belmont, died unexpectedly at his home on Monday, November 30, 2015.

Born in Waltham, MA on October 9, 1946.  He was the son of the late John P. and Katherine  E. (Schultz) Lee. He is survived by his loving sister Katherine E.  Tremblay and her husband Stephen of Summerfield, FL and the loving nephews Jonathan P. Lee of Norman, OK and Jameson H. Lee of Cary, NC. He was the brother of the late John P. Lee, Jr.

Billy was raised in Belmont and was active in St. Joseph’s Church as an altar boy and a member of the children’s choir. He was a graduate of Belmont High School, Class of 1965 and attended Burdett College in Boston. Bill joined the U.S. Marine Corps in 1966 and served in Vietnam. He worked for the U.S. Postal Service for many years and retired in 2013. He was an avid New England Patriot’s fan

He was a loving son, brother and uncle. He will be missed by his many acquaintances and friends. His sister will dearly miss him and fondly remember his humor, his loyalty and his big heart. Rest in Peace, Billy.

Funeral services will be announced at a later date. In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made in his memory to: North Reading Veteran’s Gift Account, 235 North Street (Town Hall), North Reading, MA 01864. Arrangements are under the direction of the Croswell Funeral Home, 19 Bow Street, North Reading.   www.croswellfuneralhome.com

 

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http://www.croswellfuneralhome.com/Pictures/flag.jpgWendel  G.  Johnson – 95, of North Reading and formerly of Lynn, died Monday, November 30, 2015, at Wingate at Reading. He was the beloved husband of the late Marjorie (Downing) Johnson.

Born in Lynn, MA on May 20, 1920. He was the son of the late John and Hanna (Strom) Johnson. He was raised in Lynn and was graduate of Lynn Classical High School, Class of 1938. Wendel was a U.S. Army Veteran of World War II. He entered the U.S. Army in May of 1943 and was discharged in 1946. He was a Corporal in the 1064th Engineering Forestry Company and served in both France and the Philippines.

Wendel worked as a Foreman for the General Electric Company at the Lynn Riverworks for 38 years. He has been a resident of North Reading since 1964 and was a former member of the Masonic Lodge A.F. & A.M. He played the Flute for the Salvation Army.

Wendel had a great sense of humor, he never complained and he loved to sing. He was a loving father, husband and son.

Family members include his loving daughters, Sandra Morrill and her husband Roger E., Jr.  of North Reading and Wendy Tufts and her husband Kenneth of Danville, NH; his son, Jeffrey Johnson and his wife Joan of Westchester, OH and his sister, Agnes Downing of Peabody; 4 grandchildren and 5 great grandchildren.

Funeral services will be private. There will be no calling hours. In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made in his memory to: Salvation Army National Headquarters, P.O. Box 269, Alexandria, VA 22314. www.croswellfuneralhome.com

 

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Joseph  R.  Dodwell23, of Rindge, NH, died unexpectedly at the UMass Memorial Medical Center in Worcester on Tuesday, November 24, 2015.

Born in Derry, NH on May 2, 1992. He attended Minuteman Regional Technical High School in Lexington. He was a caring person, who always put everyone before himself. He was polite and would always make you smile. He loved dogs and animals and enjoyed building things.

Family members include his loving mother, Kacy L. (Cloonan) Dodwell of Rindge, NH and his father, David Dodwell; his stepfather, Bill Wenzell of North Reading; his sister, Libby of Rindge, NH; his grandparents and many uncles, aunts and cousins.

Calling hours will be held at the Croswell Funeral Home, 19 Bow Street, North Reading on Monday, November 30, from 5 to 7 PM. There will be no funeral service. In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made in his memory to: MSPCA, 400 Broadway, Methuen, MA 01844.

 

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Mary A. (Dalton) Apigian95, of Brunswick, ME and formerly of North Reading, died Wednesday, November 18, 2015 at Chans Home Health Care and Hospice in Brunswick, ME, surrounded by her family. She was the beloved wife 67 years to the late Manuel G. Apigian, Sr.

Born in Amherst, MA on April 14,1920. She was the daughter of the late James and Anna (Tobin) Dalton. She was raised in Amherst and was a graduate of Amherst High School.

Mary was a homemaker and a devoted loving wife, mother and grandmother. She was a kind hearted person who always saw the positive in everyone. Her family and friends were the most important thing in her life.  She enjoyed spending the summers at the cottage in Maine and winters in Florida. She loved cooking, sewing and spending the holidays with her family. Mary was an avid Patriot and Red Sox fan. She enjoyed watching the games with Manny.

Mary was a former resident of North Reading for 32 years. She was a member of St. Theresa’s Church and belonged to the Ladies Sodality.

Family members include her loving sons, Manuel G. Apigian, Jr. and his wife Patricia of Waitsfield, VT, Lester Apigian and his wife Barbara of Cundys Harbor, Harpswell, ME and William Apigian and his wife Mara of McClean, VA; daughters, Ruth Apigian of Andover, Barbara Frattini and her husband William of Bath, ME and Kathleen Apigian of Methuen; 10 grandchildren, 11 great grandchildren and 2 great great grandchildren.

Her funeral will be held from the Croswell Funeral Home, 19 Bow Street, North Reading on Monday, November 23 at 9:15 AM, followed by a 10:30 AM Funeral Mass at St. Theresa’s Church, 63 Winter Street (Rt. 62), North Reading. Calling hours will be held on Sunday, November 22 from 4 to 7 PM. Burial will be in Riverside Cemetery in North Reading. Memorial donations may be made in her memory to: Hospice Care, Chans Home Health Care, 60 Baribeau Drive, Brunswick, ME 04011 or to Boys Town, P.O. Box 8000, Boys Town, NE 68010.  www.croswellfuneralhome.com   Special thanks to her health care staff, especially Dawn Stilphen and Erin Moody.

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Alice  R. (Gonnam) Murray – 94, of Concord, NH and formerly of North Reading, died Sunday, November 15, 2015 at Havenwood-Heritage Heights Retirement Community in Concord, NH. She was the beloved wife of the late Alexander J. Murray, Sr.

Born in Winchester, MA on January 29, 1921. She was the daughter of the late Harold E. and Elizabeth P. (Higgins) Gonnam.  Alice was a graduate of Reading High School and attended the Union Congregational Church in North Reading.

Alice was a seamstress, a sewing instructor and a homemaker. She was a very special person. She would do anything to help anyone anytime. She had the talent and the drive to do anything she wanted to do.

She was very proficient at tooling leather for belts and women’s hand bags, making of all types of silver jewelry, painting with oil and water colors. Alice was a long time member and past president of the “Reading Society of Craftsman.”

Family members include her loving sons, Alexander J. Murray, Jr. and his wife Geraldine of East Kingston, NH and Ronald A. Murray and his wife Marion of North Sutton, NH; her brother, Carl Gonnam and his late wife Theresa of North Reading;  sisters, Lucile Parker and her husband Robert of Auburn, ME and the late Barbara Fellows and her late husband Richard of Enfield, NH;  five grandchildren, Daniel A. Murray and his wife Sonja, Amy C. Flynn and her husband Terry, Ronald Murray and his wife Penny, Miranda Matthews and her husband Scott and Shane Murray; four great grandchildren, Andrew and Alyssa Flynn, Lana and Julia Mae Murray.

Funeral services will be private and are under the direction of the Croswell Funeral Home, 19 Bow Street, North Reading. www.croswellfuneralhome.com Memorial donations may be made in her memory to the charity of one’s choice.

 

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Eilene A. (Jack) Fichera91, of Ft. Myers, FL, formerly of North Reading, died on October 31st.

Born on November 24, 1923 in Sydney, Nova Scotia, Canada, she was the daughter of the late Harry and Pauline (MacLeod) Jack and wife of Al Fichera. She graduated from Newton North High School, worked as a pre-school teacher, was a foster mother and retired as a Payroll Representative from BASF in Bedford. She was an active member of the Union Congregational Church in North Reading for over 40 years and served many organizations including the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, Head Injury Association, NICU unit at Lee Memorial Hospital and Condominium Associations.  Eilene most treasured time with family and friends. In addition to her volunteer activities, she enjoyed dancing, theatre, genealogy, traveling, and socializing.

She was preceded in death by her son Robert Batchelder.  Survivors include her children from her former marriage to Arthur Batchelder:  Jerry Batchelder, Deborah Batchelder, and Donna Bucchio. She is also survived by her grandchildren Michelle Canfield and May Low, six great-grandchildren, sister Juanita Blaney along with many nieces and nephews.  Her stepchildren include:  Connie Cox, Bud Fichera, Jerry Fichera, and Angela Hernandez along with many step-grandchildren.

Relatives and friends are welcome at the memorial service at the Union Congregational Church, 148 Haverhill Street, North Reading, MA on Monday November 16th at 10:00 AM with a reception following in the Church Hall.

Memorial donations may be made in her memory to the charity of one’s choice.

The Croswell Funeral Home, 19 Bow Street, North Reading has been entrusted with arrangements.  (www.croswellfuneralhome.com)

 

 

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Mildred  G. “Millie” (Dutton)  Schofield – 91, of North Reading and formerly of Lynnfield, died peacefully at her home on Friday, October 30, 2015. She was the wife of the late Arthur W. Schofield.

Born in Suffield, CT on May 16, 1924. She was the daughter of the late James and Julia (Pierce) Dutton. Millie was a graduate of Malden High School, Class of 1943.

She worked in the Treasurer’s Office at Malden City Hall. She worked as a Secretary for the School Year Abroad Program at Phillips Academy and Registrar’s Office at Merrimack College.

 She has been a resident of North Reading for the past 55 years.  Millie has been a member of Wakefield/Lynnfield United Methodist Church and a longtime member of Aldersgate United Methodist Church in North Reading, where she was a member of Women’s Fellowship and Friendship Group. Some years ago, she was a member of the North Reading Garden Club and Merrimack College Bowling League.

Millie was a friendly and caring person who freely volunteered her time in service to others. She fiercely loved her family and dear friends and they in turn loved her. Millie was very active in her church, where for many years, she sang in the choir. She was a member of the CCS Board and volunteered at the food pantry. She loved to travel and to read. Millie also loved flowers and beautiful music.

Family members include her loving children, Jane Regan and her husband Jerry of North Reading; William Schofield  of Tyngsborough, Robin Schofield and his wife Kris of Lancaster and the late Calvin Schofield; daughter-in-law,  Ann Schofield of Ipswich; 6 grandchildren, 10 great grandchildren and 5 great great grandchildren. Millie was the youngest of 9 children, all of whom have  predeceased her.

Her funeral will be held at the Wakefield-Lynnfield United Methodist Church, 273 Vernon Street, Wakefield on Tuesday, November 3 at 10 AM. Calling hours will be held on Monday, November 2 at the Croswell Funeral Home, 19 Bow Street, North Reading from 5 to 8 PM. Burial will be in Puritan Lawn Memorial Park Cemetery in Peabody. In lieu of flowers the family requests that donations may be made in her memory to: Wakefield-Lynnfield United Methodist Church, 273 Vernon Street, Wakefield, MA 01880.

 

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http://www.croswellfuneralhome.com/Pictures/flag.jpgFrancis  E.  Donnelly,  Jr. -  83, of North Reading and formerly of Arlington, died Wednesday, October 28, 2015 at the Ledgewood Rehabilitation and Skilled Nursing Center in Beverly.

Born in Arlington, MA on June 15, 1932. He was the son of the late Francis E., Sr. and Ethel McCall (Browne) Donnelly. He was a graduate of Arlington High School and Tufts University. Francis was a U.S. Air Force Veteran of the Korean Conflict, he was an Airman First Class and he served from 1950 to 1954.

Francis was a retired Electrical Engineer, he worked for Sylvania, Honeywell and for Loral. He has been a resident of North Reading for the past 57 years. He was a member of St. Theresa’s Church and he sang with Jade. He composed and arranged music, he was also known as a very good trumpet player.

Family members include his loving wife of 61 years, Margaret M. (Tyrell) Donnelly;  his loving sons, Michael F. Donnelly of Renton, WA, Thomas E. Donnelly Manchester, NH and James P. Donnelly of Beverly; daughters, Deborah Donnelly of North Reading and Diane McLaughlin of Middleton; he was the brother of the late David Donnelly and is also survived by six grandchildren.

Funeral will be held from the Croswell Funeral Home, 19 Bow Street, North Reading on Monday, November 2 at 9:15 AM, followed by a 10:30 AM Funeral Mass at St. Theresa’s Church, 63 Winter Street (Rt. 62), North Reading. There will be no calling hours. Burial will be in Westview Cemetery in Lexington. In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made in his memory to: Wounded Warrior Project, P.O. Box 758517, Topeka, KS 66675 or to the charity of one’s choice. www.croswellfuneralhome.com

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Ester Victoria (Peterson) Zeimetz, a beloved wife and mother died on October 22, 2015 at Wingate at Reading, after a courageous battle with dementia. She was 92 years old.

Ester was born October 8, 1923 in Boston, MA to the late Charles Richard and Talie Victoria (Zackrisson) Peterson. She grew up in Malden graduating from high school in 1940. In 1946 she received her Masters of Social Work from Simmons College. She married her childhood sweetheart Philip John Zeimetz in 1948. They moved to North Reading where they lived for over 35 years and raised their family. During this time Ester studied at Andover Newton Theological School attaining a Master’s in Religious Education. She was employed by the Union Congregational Church as Director of Religious Education. She later worked for the Massachusetts Conference, United Church of Christ in Framingham. Ester was also an active volunteer for a number of community organizations including the Boy Scouts, Camp Fire Girls, church youth groups, Rainbow Girls, student tutoring, the League of Women Voters and the Conservation Commission.  She was elected to both the North Reading School Committee and Board of Selectmen where she served for many years, chairing each during her tenure.

After retirement she and Phil moved to Mattapoisett where Ester had summered since childhood. Ester pursued her interests in alternative healing practices by becoming a Practitioner in the Feldenkrais method. She also took classes and practiced Jin Shin Jyutsu, meditation and The Chakras, and explored other types of mind-body healing.

Ester was very active in the Mattapoisett Congregational Church where she served on various committees. She was a member of the choir and also sang with the Sippican Choral Society. She was a student and an instructor at The Second Half at U Mass. Dartmouth, a program for lifelong learning.

Ester loved singing and music of all types. She was an avid gardener growing both flowers and vegetables. She was always conscious of the environment and served for many years as a water tester for the Buzzards Bay Coalition. Ester was a consummate volunteer who chose causes that helped people and the environment. She was always trying new things to challenge herself and encourage the people around her.

Religion was a large part of Ester's life and she lived her life based on her beliefs. She was always understanding and forgiving, seeing the good in everyone. Even in the final years of advanced dementia she never forgot to smile and say thank you. She retained her wonderful sense of humor and was always gracious to everyone who cared for her.

Ester was the widow of Philip John Zeimetz who predeceased her in 1997. She will be greatly missed by her children, Anthony Zeimetz and his wife Barbara of Andover, Victoria Rauseo and her husband Paul of St. Augustine, FL, Steven Zeimetz and his wife Tami of Rochester, NH, and Cheryl Zeimetz of New Bedford; grandchildren Nicholas Rauseo, Melissa Rauseo, Mark Rauseo, Samuel Rauseo, William Rauseo, Kristen Rourke, Justin Zeimetz, Eric Zeimetz and Emily Zeimetz; and many nieces and nephews.

Ester, always a giver and always thinking of others, donated her body to Tufts Medical School.  A memorial service will be held at the Mattapoisett Congregational Church, 27 Church Street, Mattapoisett, MA 02739, Wednesday, November 18th at 11:00 am. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Mattapoisett Congregational Church or to the Alzheimer’s Association, 480 Pleasant St., Watertown, MA 02472. Arrangements are by the Croswell Funeral Home, North Reading  www.croswellfuneralhome.com

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Nicholas  L.  Grant – 32, of Nashua, NH and formerly of Beverly, MA, died unexpectedly on Tuesday, October 13, 2015.

Born in Stoneham, MA on November  4, 1982. He was a graduate Lynn Tech High School. He has been a resident of Nashua, NH for the past five years. Nicholas worked as a carpenter.

He was a free spirit person. He was a very outgoing young man and he had a very kind heart. He loved all kinds of animals and birds, he wanted to fly like them. He loved to turn a wrench on motorcycles and hot rods.

Family members include his loving father, Kenneth E. Grant and his mother, Jacquelyn  T. LaRocque; his son, Gage; his brother, John Everett, III and sister, Jessica Grant.

His Funeral will be held at the Croswell Funeral Home, 19 Bow Street, North Reading on Saturday, October 24 at 12:45 PM. Calling hours will be prior to the service from 11:00 AM to 12:30 PM.  Memorial donations may be made in his memory to the charity of one’s choice.

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http://www.croswellfuneralhome.com/Pictures/flag.jpgJoseph  Pizzanoof Groveland, MA, formerly of Revere and Haverhill, passed away on October 18, 2015, at age 94, at the Merrimack Valley Hospice House in Haverhill. He was a retired Revere Fire Captain and a World War II Veteran.

He is survived by three his daughters, Patricia, Barbara, and Jean and her husband Bob Mascola of North Reading;  grandchildren, Brenda Padolsky, Brian Waugh, Kathy DiFraia, Kris Bellino, and David DiFraia of North Reading;  nephews Paul and Joseph Rinaldi; and his beloved companion Betty Mahoney.

Services will be held at a later date and will be private.

The family respectfully requests that in lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in his memory to the Leary Firefighters Foundation (www.learyfirefighters.org). Arrangements are by the Croswell Funeral Home, 19 Bow Street, North Reading. www.croswellfuneralhome.com

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http://www.croswellfuneralhome.com/Pictures/flag.jpgJames  R. Atkins -  84, of North Reading and formerly of Lakewood, Ohio, died at his home on Monday, October 12, 2015.

Born in Rome, Ohio on August 24,1931. He was the son of the late Jesse James Atkins and Nell Adeline (Brockway) Atkins. He was a U.S. Navy Veteran of the Korean Conflict and he served from 1951 to 1954.

Jim worked as carpenter for the Seaman-Bratko Construction Company in Holyoke and he retired in 1987.  He has been a resident of North Reading since 1961.

He loved sailing on Windjammers in Maine and steam trains, he belonged to the Northeast Live Steamers Club. Jim enjoyed painting and building furniture. He also enjoyed dressing up as Santa Claus, during the holidays, for many people.          

He was the beloved husband of 62 years to Mary C. (Lucas-Pierce) Atkins; he was the loving father of Donna Atkins of Glen, NH, Barbara Atkins of Reading and the late Clayton Atkins; he was the brother of David Atkins and his wife Erna of Canton, Ohio, the late Dale Atkins and the late Virginia Mieser. He is also survived by many nieces and nephews.

His Funeral Service will be held at the Union Congregational Church, 148 Haverhill Street, North Reading on Friday, October 16 at 10 AM. Calling hours will be held at the Croswell Funeral Home, 19 Bow St., North Reading on Thursday from 3 to 7 PM. In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made in his memory to: North Reading Veteran’s Gift Account, 235 North Street (Town Hall), North Reading, MA 01864.  www.croswellfuneralhome.com

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Anna  H.  White – 94, of Reading and formerly of North Reading, died at her home in on Sunday, October 11, 2015. She was the beloved wife of the late Herbert  J. White.

Born in Melrose, MA on September 26, 1921. She was the daughter of the late Frank Henry White and Mary Modeste (Frotten) White. She was raised in Melrose and was a graduate of Melrose High School, Class of 1941.

Anna  was a homemaker and loving mother and grandmother. She has been a resident of Reading for the past three years. Anna loved to write poetry.

Family members include her loving sons, James White and his wife Jenna of Lake Havasu City, AZ and Richard White and his wife Phyllis of Simi Valley, CA; her daughter, Mary Colby and her late husband Bruce Colby of Peyton, CO and formerly of North Reading. Also survived by 9 grandchildren and 20 great grandchildren.

Her funeral will be held from the Croswell Funeral Home, 19 Bow Street, North Reading on Monday, October 19 at 9:00 AM, followed by a 10:30 AM Funeral Mass at St. Athanasius Church, 300 Haverhill Street, Reading. Calling hours will be held on Sunday, October 18, from 4 to 7 PM. Burial will be in Riverside Cemetery in North Reading.

In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made in memory to: Peter Sanborn Place, 50 Bay State Road, Reading, MA 01867.  www.croswellfuneralhome.com

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Gayle L. (Regan) Burke – 61, of North Reading, died unexpectedly on Sunday, October 11, 2015, at Winchester Hospital.

Born in Woburn, MA on August 2, 1954, she was the daughter of the late Edward J. and Mary E. (White) Regan. Gayle has been a lifelong resident of North Reading was a graduate of North Reading High School, Class of 1972. She was a member of the Loyal Order of Moose, she attended the Edith A. O’Leary Senior Center and St. Theresa’s Church.

Many North Reading residents will remember Gayle from her years at the Carousel Cleaners, where every customer was greeted by her welcoming smile. Gayle was a fun loving friend to all around her. She was truly young at heart and enjoyed music from every decade. She had a quirky sense of humor and loved to make people laugh. Gayle loved vacations to Cape Cod and Maine. She enjoyed spending time with her family and friends. Gayle loved taking her dog for small walks  around Martin’s Pond.  

Family members include her beloved husband of 43 years, Hank Burke; loving daughters, Regan Burke and Colleen Peabody and her husband Robert, all of Methuen, Kelley Wilson and her husband Shaun of North Reading; she was the sister of Ed and Dolly Regan of FL, Jerry and Jane Regan of North Reading, Madeline Alford and Ed Brown of FL, Brian and Rick Regan of Dorchester and Joyce and Joshua Garcia of New Mexico;  brothers and sisters-in-laws, Jimmy Burke, Eddie and Sandy Burke, of North Reading, Joey and Sheila Burke of VA, Dave Abruzzese and the late Nancy Abruzzese of North Reading. Dedicated grandmother of Thomas, Tyler, Henry and Hailey Burke, Michael, Trevor and Evan Wilson and the late Ethan Lamphier, as well as her many cousins, nieces, nephews and many lifelong friends, including Patty Goodwin.

Funeral from the Croswell Funeral Home, 19 Bow St., NORTH READING on Saturday, October 17 at 9AM, followed by a 10:30 AM Funeral Mass at St. Theresa’s Church, 63 Winter St. (Rt. 62), North Reading. Calling hours on Friday, October 16 from 4 to 8 PM. Burial will be in Riverside Cemetery in North Reading. In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made in her memory to the charity of one’s choice.  www.croswellfuneralhome.com

 

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Stephen  C.  May  39, of Pembroke, NH,  formerly of California, North Reading and Illinois, died unexpectedly on Monday, October 5, 2015.

Born in Brighton, MA on October 9, 1975.  He attended school in Berwyn, IL and was a graduate of North Reading High School, Class of 1993. He worked as a truck and heavy equipment mechanic for E.W. Sleeper in Concord, NH. He was a member of the U.S. Army National Guard.

Stephen enjoyed hiking, and walking trails with his dog. He loved snowmobiling and riding dirt bikes and fishing with his brother. He also enjoyed drawing freehand pictures and designs. He loved to cook and spend time with family and friends. He especially loved his dog Lola.

Stephen was a person who was larger than life and he touched every person he met in his own unique way, so that he was never forgotten.  He was always the first one there in time of need to help anyone, especially in emergency situations. He had a strong take charge blustery personality that drew people to him like a magnet. His sense of humor was the best and his bellowing loud laugh was contagious. If you were lucky enough to be his friend, it was forever.

Family members include his loving parents, Shirley A. (Deveau) May of Henniker, NH and Stephen O. May of Clearwater, FL; his brother, Michael J. May and his wife Nikki Constantino May of North Reading, his stepfather, Roy Richardson, of Henniker, NH, ,his stepsister, Daryl Martin of Haverhill, MA. , his stepbrother, Evan Richardson,of Salem, NH,  his stepfather, Roy Richardson, of Henniker, NH, his stepsister, Daryl Martin of Haverhill, MA. , and his stepbrother, Evan Richardson of Salem, NH, his stepfather, Roy Richardson, of Henniker, NH, his stepsister, Daryl Martin of Haverhill, MA. , and his stepbrother, Evan Richardson of Shis nieces, Serenity and Mahalia May and his nephew Michael J. May, Jr., all of North Reading; his uncle Joseph Deveau and his wife Christine and his cousins, Brandon, Derek and Rianna Deveau, all of Medway.

Calling hours will be held at the Croswell Funeral Home, 19 Bow Street, North Reading on Friday, October 9 from 4 to 7 PM, followed by a prayer service at 7 PM.  In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made in his memory to the charity of one’s choice. www.croswellfuneralhome.com

 

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Mary  E. (Harris) Rollins – 89, of North Reading and formerly of Malden, died Monday, September 28, 2015 at the Peregrine’s  Landing in Tewksbury. She was the beloved wife of the late Edwin H. Rollins, Jr.

Born in Marblehead, MA on April 19,1926.  She was the daughter of the late John W. and  Catherine  A. (Sheehan) Harris. She was raised and attended school in Malden and was a graduate of Malden High School, Class of 1944.  Mary worked for Acme Printing Company in Malden for over thirty years.

Mary has been a resident of North Reading for over sixty years. She was an active member of the Edith A. O’Leary Senior Center for many years and was a member of St. Theresa’s Church.  She loved music and singing and was a member of the North Reading Echoes. Mary always enjoyed all the traveling she did with her late husband Ed. 

Family members include her loving brother, Richard Harris and his wife Deborah of Brentwood, NH and her sister, Barbara Frazier of Clovis, CA. She was the sister of the late John, Robert and Charles Harris. She is also survived by several nieces and nephews, including her niece, Jill Ducharme and her husband Sean and great niece, Mackenzie of Brentwood, NH and her nephew, Glenn Harris and his wife Elizabeth (Crowley) and great nephew, Owen of Salem, NH.

Her funeral will be held from the Croswell Funeral Home, 19 Bow Street, North Reading on Thursday, October 8. Calling hours will be held from 9:00 AM  to 10:30 AM, followed by a 11 AM Funeral Mass at St. Theresa’s Church, 63 Winter Street (Rt.62), North Reading. Burial will be in Riverside Cemetery in North Reading. Memorial donations may be made in her memory to the charity of one’s choice. www.croswellfuneral home.com

 

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Dorothy  M. (Barry) Gallant – 85, of North Reading and formerly of Somerville, died Wednesday, September 23, 2015 at Winchester Hospital. She was the beloved wife of the late Arthur E. Gallant.

Born in Somerville, MA on August 12, 1930, she was the daughter of the late John J. and Laura (Clarke) Barry.  She attended Reading High School. Dorothy was the owner of Gallant Electric Motor Service in North Reading, since 1965 and has been a resident for over seventy years.

Dorothy had a big heart, she was a very compassionate person. She always saw the good in people. She had a smile for all who passed by her. She taught us to always stay young at heart and to never let the child inside us escape. We will always remember her smiling eyes.

Dorothy was a fantastic artist, an avid reader and loved gardening with her daughter. She especially loved board game nights with her children and grandson. Her grandson Michael was one of her greatest joys. She was an avid Red Sox Fan and she loved Christmas and Collected Santas.

Loving mother of, Michael B. Gallant of Hollywood, FL, Dawn M. Gallant-George and her husband Larry George , Mark B. Gallant and Steven A. Gallant, all of North Reading;  sisters, Janet  M. Burnett and her late husband Paul of Lowell, Judy A. Bevilacqua and her husband David of North Reading, Sandra Guilfoyle and her husband Cliff of Derry, NH and the late Bette A. Moreau and her late husband Eugene R. Moreau; her cherished grandson, Michael C. Gallant of North Reading and Stoneham and many nieces and nephews. 

Funeral services will be private. Family and friends are invited to a Celebration of Dorothy’s Life at Kitty’s Restaurant in North Reading on Tuesday, September 29 at 12:30 PM. In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made in her memory to: Northeast Animal Shelter, 247 Highland Ave., Salem, MA 01970  (978) 745-9888. Arrangements are by the Croswell Funeral Home, 19 Bow Street, North Reading. www.croswellfuneralhome.com

 

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http://www.croswellfuneralhome.com/Pictures/flag.jpgRobert  W.  Russo - 71, of North Reading and formerly of Saugus, died at his home on Monday, September 21, 2015.

Born in Chelsea, MA on December 7, 1943. He was the son of the late Rocco and Blanche (St. Laurent) Russo. He was a graduate of Revere High School and he later attended a Vocational School.  He was a U.S. Army Veteran of the Vietnam Conflict.

Robert was a retired Body Shop Manager. He also worked as a business insurance adjustor, automobile appraiser and a carpenter and builder. He has been a resident of North Reading for the past 29 years. He was a member of the North Reading Masonic Lodge A.F. & A.M., Aleppo Shrine, Orientals Hot Rod Club and Stroker Hot Rod Club in Gloucester.

He was known for his strength of character, teaching others by example and perseverance.  His functioning ability under any circumstances, power, intuition, loving, always an avid listener and problem solver. He was smart, funny, kind and spiritual.  Robert loved nature, hiking, kayaking, the beach, the mountains, lakes and the ocean. He loved animals and birds of prey like hawks and eagles. He was always building, a house, a camp, a shed or fireplace. He loved hot rods and motorcycles. He also enjoyed reading and thinking.

Family members include his loving wife of 43 years, Linda (Roberts) Russo; daughters, Nicole Russo of Wakefield and Vanessa (Russo) Vath and her husband  Alex of Peabody; his sister, Debbie Powers and her husband Larry of Winthrop; nieces, Jessica Powers of Everett and Sharon Powers of Winthrop and grandson, Logan Vath of Peabody.

His funeral will be held at the Emmanuel Episcopal Church, 5 Bryant St., Wakefield on Saturday, September 26 at 11 AM. Calling hours will be held at the Croswell Funeral Home, 19 Bow St., North Reading on Friday, September 25 from 4:30 to 8:30 PM. Burial will be in Puritan Lawn Memorial Park Cemetery in Peabody. In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made in his memory to:  Tufts Medical Center Trust, 800 Washington St., Box 231, Boston, MA 02111, checks payable to Tufts Medical Center, specifically to Prostate Cancer Research Fund (Dr. Paul Mathew). 

 

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http://www.croswellfuneralhome.com/Pictures/flag.jpgPaul  Woods102, of Stoneham, formerly of Hyannis, North Reading and Somerville and Brooksville, FL, died Friday, September 18, 2015 at the Meadow View Center in North Reading, after a lengthy illness. He was the beloved husband of the late Flora M. Woods.

Born in Somerville, MA on April 11, 1913. He was the son of the late Paul J. and Imelda (Richardson) Woods.

Paul was a U.S. Coast Guard Veteran of World War II. He was a Seaman First Class, he served aboard the U.S.S. Greensboro in the Mediterranean Sea and off the North Atlantic Coast, his ship was responsible for sinking a German U-Boat off the coast of Massachusetts, during his service.

 He was a member of the Stoneham Auxiliary Police Department for the Town of Stoneham, while a resident and a member of the Stoneham and Brooksville, FL VFW. He was also an Usher and volunteer for Sunday School and the Soup Kitchen for St. John’s Episcopal Church, in Brooksville,FL, until the age of 97.

Family members include his daughter, Dorothy Steeves Sidebotham of Florida; his three grandchildren, Marc Steeves and his wife Steffanie Sinclair-Steeves of North Reading,  Wendy Steeves of Haverhill and Todd Steeves and his wife Chrissy of Salem, NH;  five great grandchildren, Jared Steeves of Haverhill, Erik, Erin, Jessica Steeves and Jacob Sinclair-Steeves, all of North Reading; his nephew, William Bellino and his wife Patricia of Brooksville, FL.

Funeral services will be private and are under the direction of the Croswell Funeral Home, 19 Bow Street, North Reading. Interment will be held in Florida at a later date. In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made in his memory to the charity of one’s choice. www.croswellfuneralhome.com

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Gaye  E.  O’Brien - 64, of Reading, formerly of North Reading, died Wednesday, September 16, 2015 at Wingate at Reading, after a long illness.

Born in Winchester, MA on January 30, 1951, she was the daughter of the late Nelson P. and Mildred A. (Messenger) O’Brien. She attended North Reading Public Schools and was a graduate of North Reading High School, Class of 1969.

Gaye worked for many years as a Dog Groomer.  She loved animals and fostered or adopted many over the years.  Gaye was well known for her infectious laugh and large personality.

Family members include her loving brothers, William A. O’Brien and his wife Birgitta of Maggie Valley , NC and Edward A. O’Brien and his wife Stacey Rigopoulos of Andover. She was the sister of the late Nelson P. O’Brien, Jr.  and Gail O’Brien.

Funeral services will be private.  In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made in her memory to: Methuen Animal Care and Adoption Center at Nevins Farm, 400 Broadway, Methuen, MA 01844. Arrangements are by the Croswell Funeral Home, 19 Bow Street, North Reading.  www.croswellfuneralhome.com

 

 

Pearl  B. (Messenger) Gibbons – 89, of Reading and formerly of Wakefield, died, Tuesday, August 25, 2015 at the Bear Hill Nursing & Rehabilitation Center in Wakefield. She was the wife of the late Raymond T. Gibbons.

Full Obituary

A graveside service will be held in Forest Glen Cemetery in Reading on Friday, October 9 at 11 AM.  There will be no calling hours.  Memorial donations may be made in her memory to the charity of one’s choice. Arrangements are by Croswell Funeral Home, 19 Bow Street, North Reading, MA 01864. croswellfuneralhome.com

 

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Joseph  G. O’Neill  -  22, of North Reading, died unexpectedly on September 7, 2015.

Born in Melrose,  MA on September 9, 1992. He was a lifelong resident of North Reading. He was a graduate of North Reading High School, Class of 2011. He also attended Porter and Chester in Woburn.

Joe worked for Royal Air Systems in North Reading as a HVAC Technician. He was always polite and courteous. He would drop everything to help a friend or neighbor and he loved to joke around.

Joe loved the outdoors and four wheeling with friends. He enjoyed going to Dalton, NH with friends and loved going to Croydon, NH to his brothers. He was an avid Bruins fan and he loved the Military.

Family members include his loving parents, James and Celeste (Muise) O’Neill of North Reading; his brother, Shawn O’Neill and his wife Jennifer of Croydon, NH; his sisters, Melissa Ricard and her fiancé Angel of Lawrence and Jessica O’Neill of North Andover; his grandmother, Rita Muise of Reading. Also survived by six nieces, two nephews , several aunts, uncles and cousins.

His funeral will be held on Saturday, September 12 at 9:15 AM, from the Croswell Funeral Home, 19 Bow Street, North Reading, followed by a 10:30 AM Funeral Mass at St. Theresa’s Church, 63 Winter Street, (Rt. 62), North Reading. Calling hours will be held on Friday, September 11 from 4 to 8 PM. Burial will be in Riverside Cemetery in North Reading. In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made in his memory to Northeast Veterans Outreach Center, 10 Reed Street, Haverhill, MA 01832. www.croswellfuneralhome.com

 

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Helen  E.  (Marchefski) DeLisle  -  89, of Tewksbury and formerly of Wilmington, died Monday, September 7, 2015 at Lowell General Hospital, Saints Campus in Lowell. She was the wife of the late Ralph F. DeLisle, Sr.

Born in Boston, MA on February 26, 1926.  She was raised in Wilmington and was a graduate of Wilmington High School. Helen worked as a secretary for Raytheon and Sylvania.

Helen was a homemaker and a dedicated mother of seven children. She has been a resident of Tewksbury for the past three years.

Family members include her loving sons, Ralph F. DeLisle, Jr. and William G. DeLisle, both of AZ, Stephen P. DeLisle of North Reading and David DeLisle of Billerica; daughters, Sandra A. (DeLisle) Chavez of Las Vegas, NV, Frances M. (DeLisle) Fay of FL and Dolores DeLisle of Duxbury;  her sister, Pauline Riggs of Keene, NH. Also survived by 24 grandchildren and 26 great grandchildren.

Her Funeral will be held at the Croswell Funeral Home, 19 Bow Street, North Reading on Friday, September 18 at 11 AM, calling hours will be held prior to the service from 9 to 11 AM. Interment will be held in Wildwood Cemetery in Wilmington.

Memorial donations may be made in her memory to the charity of one’s choice.  www.croswellfuneralhome.com

 

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http://www.croswellfuneralhome.com/Pictures/flag.jpgJohn  P.  Collins, Sr. – 92, of North Reading and formerly of Reading, died Friday, September 4, 2015 at Meadow View Care and Rehabilitation in North Reading. He was the beloved husband of the late Jennie M. (Cincotta) Collins.

Born in Cambridge, MA on November 18, 1922. He was the son of the late Henry and Elizabeth M. ( Leahan) Collins. Jack was raised in Reading and was a graduate of Reading High School, Class of 1941.

He was a U.S. World War II Veteran and a member of the U.S. Marine 4th Division. He participated in enemy battles at Roi and Namur, Kwajalein Atoll, Marshall Islands, Saipan, Marianas Islands.  He was the recipient of the Purple Heart,  Presidential Citation, 4 Bronze Battle Stars, South Pacific Streamer, Navy Unit Commendation Streamer and Asian-Pacific Streamer.

After being discharged, Jack worked for the U.S. Post Office in Reading for 37 years and retiring in 1985. He has been a resident of North Reading for the past 54 years and a member of St. Theresa’s Church. He was a member of the American Legion and Marines 4th Division.

Jack will forever be remembered by family and friends for his great sense of humor and catch phrases. His outgoing and bold personality could take over a room. Whether it be at a family function or the many ballparks he and his son John would visit together.

Anyone who came across his path would get a handshake and an explanation on why people would shake hands. He had a gift of gab that would make everyone feel at ease. Jack was very patriotic and was a proud member of the U.S. Marine Corps, serving right out of high school in World War II.

Jack was also an avid fan of all sports, but an even bigger supporter of his grandchildren sporting events.” Papa” was their #1 fan and often could be heard encouraging and often offering advice to them. His family was his pride and joy.

Mostly he will be remembered as a family man, who always put his family before himself. He loved spending his winters with his oldest son, John in Clearwater, Florida. The world is a less friendly place now, but if you had the pleasure of meeting Jack Collins, you were better for it.

Family members include his loving sons, John P. Collins, Jr. of North Reading and Joseph P. Collins, Sr. and his wife Dianne of Georgetown; daughters, Jacqueline King and her husband Bob of Reading, Elizabeth Donaldson and her husband Jeffrey and Maryann Murray and her husband Michael, all of North Reading;  ten grandchildren, Jennifer, Jacob and Katie Donaldson, James King, Joseph, Jr., David, and Ana Collins, Max, Mason and Marshall Murray; he was the brother of the late Joseph and Henry Collins and Mary Demonico.

Funeral from the Croswell Funeral Home, 19 Bow Street, North Reading on Thursday, September 10 at 9:15 AM, followed by a 10:30 AM Funeral Mass at St. Theresa’s Church, 63 Winter Street (Rt. 62), North Reading. Calling hours will be held on Wednesday, September 9 from 4 to 8 PM. Burial will be in Forest Glen Cemetery in Reading. In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made in his memory to:  PTSDusa.org, Combat Trama, helping wounded  warriors, veterans and their families suffering from combat related PTSD or to the American Cancer Society, P.O. Box 22718, Oklahoma City, OK 73123. croswellfuneralhome.com

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Pearl  B. (Messenger) Gibbons – 89, of Reading and formerly of Wakefield, died, Tuesday, August 25, 2015 at the Bear Hill Nursing & Rehabilitation Center in Wakefield. She was the wife of the late Raymond T. Gibbons.

Born in Wakefield, MA on January 18, 1926.  She was the daughter of the late Roy and Florence W. (MacKay) Messenger. She was raised in Wakefield and was a graduate of Wakefield High School.

Pearl worked as a Realtor, she also worked for Case Drugs in Reading and Bard Medical in North Reading.

Pearl has been a resident of Reading for 59 years. She was a member of the Church of the Good Shepherd in Reading, where she was President of the Women’s Group. She was a Campfire Girl Leader, member of the North Village Association and she volunteered for Elderly Services, she shopped for the elderly and read to the blind.

Her family always came first. She always helped others and enjoyed being with her brothers and sisters at the Cape. Pearl loved to sew, knit, cane chairs, crochet, doing crafts and braid rugs.  She also enjoyed gardening, playing scrabble, refinishing furniture and was an avid reader.

Family members include her loving sons, Dean R. Gibbons and his wife Marcia (Cook) of Methuen and Dwayne S. Gibbons and his wife Nancy (Chesterton) of Afton, Wyoming;  daughters, Nancy (Gibbons) Pearson and her husband David of Bow, NH and Cheryl J. Gibbons of Wakefield; two grandchildren and six great grandchildren.

A graveside service will be held at a later date in Forest Glen Cemetery in Reading. There will be no calling hours. Memorial donations may be made in her memory to the charity of one’s choice. Arrangements are by Croswell Funeral Home, 19 Bow Street, North Reading, MA 01864. croswellfuneralhome.com

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Fred  R.  Chalmers – 58, of North Reading and formerly of Winthrop, died Monday, August 10, 2015, at the Lahey Hospital and Medical Center in Burlington.

Born in Winthrop, MA on August 18, 1956. He was the son of the late Fred and Margaret (Minichiello) Chalmers.  He was a graduate of Bentley University.  Fred worked for many years as a Senior Financial Analyst, he worked for the Digital Equipment Corporation and for Compaq (Hewlett Packard).

He has been a resident of North Reading for the past 32 years and was a member of St. Theresa’s Church. He was an active volunteer, coach or board member for; Bring Back The Fourth Committee, North Reading Youth Football, North Reading Youth Lacrosse, Hockey, Soccer, Little League, and Cape Ann Football League.

“People around town recognize Freddie from years of volunteering across every youth sports field in North Reading for 15 years. His distinctive whistle and coaching voice recognized by many! He loved the kids and counts many as surrogate sons and daughters!  His love of North Reading and its small town flair for celebration, led Fred to volunteer on the Bring Back the Fourth Committee.”

His greatest joy were his sons, Nicholas and Christopher and coaching them over the years. His favorite spots were the High School practice field and Ipswich River Park. His favorite times were holidays with his family, especially vacations to Maine and Disney World.

Family members include his loving wife of 32 years, Kathleen (Curran) Chalmers, his sons, Christopher and Nicholas Chalmers, all of North Reading; his brother, Douglas Chalmers and his wife Mary and their children, Gina and Brian Chalmers, all of Winthrop; also many beloved cousins, nieces and nephews.

His Funeral Mass will be held on Monday, August 17 at 10:30 AM at St. Theresa’s Church, 63 Winter Street (Rt. 62), North Reading. Calling hours will be held at Croswell Funeral Home, 19 Bow Street, North Reading on Sunday, August 16 from 3 to 6 PM. In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made in his memory to: North Reading Fourth of July Committee at http:// www.gofundme.com/waaxhg 

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Rev.  Joseph  Simone91, of North Andover and formerly of Andover for many years, died at his home on Tuesday, August 4, 2015. He was the beloved husband of the late Mary H. (Rezendes) Simone, who died in 2012.

Born in Bridgeport, CT on January 13, 1924. He was the son of the late Dominic and Anna (Mastrone) Simone.  He served in the U.S. Army in the Pacific War area from 1942 to 1945.

Joseph received a B.A. degree from Elon College and a M.A. degree from Andover Newton Theological School. He traveled to Canada, Japan, Switzerland, Germany, Italy and France.

He was a retired Congregational Minister (United Church of Christ), serving churches in Rhode Island, North Carolina and Massachusetts. He later worked as an English Teacher and Guidance Counselor for the Wakefield Middle School. He also served in the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary for 15 years as an instructor and as an assistant staff officer, from 1993 to 1998.

His accomplishments are listed in the books following: Who’s Who in the East. Dictionary of International Biography, The Two Thousand Men of Achievement, Notable Americans of the Bicentennial Era, Who’s Who in Religion, Who’s Who in America and Who’s Who in the World.

Joseph was always there for others. His life’s purpose was to create unity among all people. He was passionate about what he believed in. He loved life and his family. He was constantly growing and learning each day. He never stopped wanting to become a better person. He enjoyed reading, writing, photography, his computers and the Bible. He also loved his chocolate and ice cream.

He was a member of the Martin’s Pond Union Baptist Church in North Reading, Masonic Fraternity, Sigma Mu Sigma, Disabled American Veterans and Andover Ministered Association.

Family members include his three children, Claudia A. Simone Trethewey of Merrimack, NH,  Joseph S. Simone of Jaffrey, NH and Zachary D. Simone of Alton Bay, NH; four grandchildren, a great grandchild, two nieces, a nephew and several great nieces and great nephews; four late brothers and two late sisters.

His funeral will be held at the Martin’s Pond Union Baptist Church, 4 Cogswell Road, North Reading on Monday, August 10 at 1:00 PM.  Visitation will be held at the Croswell Funeral Home, 19 Bow Street, North Reading, prior to the service on Monday from 11:00 AM to Noon. In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made in his memory to: American Cancer Society, P.O. Box 22718, Oklahoma City, OK, 73123.

 

Leslie  J.  Hudson  - 58, of Medford, formerly of Reading and North Reading, died Sunday, August 2, 2015, at Winchester Hospital, after a lengthy illness.

Born in Winchester, MA on December 28, 1956. She was the daughter of the late Ralph H. and Eleanor G. (Wilson) Hudson. Leslie was a graduate of Stoneham High School, she was a member of St. Theresa’s Church in North Reading and the HYA Club.

Leslie worked as a housekeeper for the Reading Y.W.C.A. and for EMARC. She was a fun loving person who brought joy to her family. She loved to dance, swim, listen to music and spend time with her special friends, Cheri Glassett, Angela Camarro and Anne Kieslich. Leslie also loved bowling, square dancing, rug hooking and word searches.

Leslie loved to travel, including her winters in Florida, fall at the Mittersill and summers in Maine. Leslie’s family would like to thank her many wonderful caregivers, housemates and friends who enriched her life. She participated in the Special Olympics for many years and was our family baker and honored each of us with a delicious birthday cake yearly.

Family members include her loving sisters, Kathleen H. Winacoo and her husband Jeffrey of Holden and Deborah Hudson of ME;  nieces, Sarah Buttersworth and her husband Craig of Andover;  Emily Landsman and her husband Sam of Woodstock, VT and Allison Winacoo of Los Angeles, CA; nephews, James McBee and his wife Meaghan of Baltimore, MD and Ian McBee and his wife Liz McGovern of Salem ,MA;  her uncle, Harvey Hudson of Wilmington and her aunt, Nancy Hudson of Dover, NH; she was the great aunt of Cassidy, Rosalie and Aliceanna McBee. She leaves behind many other dear relatives and friends.

Visitation will be held at the Croswell Funeral Home, 19 Bow St., NORTH READING on Saturday, August 8 from 9:30 to 10:30 AM, followed by a 11 AM Funeral Mass at St. Theresa’s Church, 63 Winter St. (Rt. 62), North Reading. Burial will be in Puritan Lawn Memorial Park Cemetery in Peabody. In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made in her memory to: EMARC, 20 Gould St., Reading, MA 01867 or to the charity of one’s choice. www.croswellfuneralhome.com

 

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Ms. Mindy Lee Nesbitt   of Rochester, NH and formerly of North Reading, MA, passed away peacefully, surrounded by her loving family and friends on the morning of Saturday, July 11th, after a long illness and courageous battle,  Mindy was 34 years old.

Mindy is survived by her beloved daughter, Kiley Racic of Dover, NH; her parents, Ms. Donna Wood of Dover, NH, formerly of Wakefield, MA;  Mr. Ralph Nesbitt and his wife Karen of North Reading, MA; Mr. John Weaver of North Reading;  her brother, David Nesbitt of Haverhill, MA;  her sister,  Katelynn Weaver of North Reading  and her grandfather, Merle Weaver of North Reading.

Mindy is preceded in death by her grandparents; Victor and Annette Wood of Wakefield; and Mrs. Helen Weaver of North Reading.

Mindy was born on December 2, 1980 in Melrose, MA.  Mindy was raised in North Reading where she attended North Reading Public Schools through the eighth grade. Mindy studied cosmetology at The Northeast Metropolitan Regional Technical Vocational High School in Wakefield and was a graduate of the Class of 1999. Shortly after graduation Mindy achieved her goal of becoming a licensed Cosmetologist. She happily pursued a successful career for many years. Mindy was passionate about her work and was most happy tending to people, bringing out their inner beauty and making them feel good about themselves.

Over time, Mindy relocated to New Hampshire. Soon after, her daughter Kiley Joy Racic, was born. Kiley was the light of Mindy’s life. Mindy was a dedicated, loving mother who shared an incredible bond with her daughter. Mindy excelled as a parent, striving to teach Kiley all she needed to know to navigate the world successfully with a caring, compassionate heart.

Mindy will be remembered by all for her kindness and generosity, infectious laugh, and insatiable humor.

Services will be held on Thursday, July 23rd from 5:00-8:00 p.m. at The Croswell Funeral Home, 19 Bow Street, North Reading. Funeral Services will be held at the same location on Friday, July 24th at 10:00 a.m. All are welcome to attend and celebrate Mindy’s life.

Additionally, a celebration of Mindy's life will be held Sunday, July 26th at 12:30 p.m. at the home of Kiley’s grandparents, Mark & Cindy Racic, 5 Riverview Road, Durham, NH.  Please join us to share your thoughts and memories of Mindy with the family and her beautiful daughter Kiley.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorial contributions be made to the Kiley Joy Racic College Fund via: http://www.gofundme.com/mindynesbitt

 

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Philip  C.  Gonnam63, of Billerica and formerly of North Reading, died Monday, July 13, at the Lowell General Hospital, after a lengthy illness.

Born in Portland, Maine on June 23, 1952. He was raised and attended North Reading Public Schools and was a graduate of North Reading High School, Class of 1970. Philip worked as a machinist for many years. He has been a resident of Billerica for the past 28 years and was a member of St. Theresa’s Parish in Billerica. He always had a great love for music.

Family members include his loving wife, Nanci (Hrynowski) Gonnam; his son, Eric C. Gonnam, both of Billerica; his father, Carl Gonnam of North Reading and his late mother, Theresa (Lally) Gonnam; his brother, George Gonnam of North Reading; sisters, Nancy Gonnam of North Reading and Mary Ann Gonnam and her husband John Hudson, his sister-in-law, Jane McCarthy, all of Wilmington; his brother-in-law, Peter Hrynowski of Derry, NH and several nieces and nephews.

His funeral will be held at the Croswell Funeral Home, 19 Bow Street, North Reading on Monday, July 20 at 10:30 AM. Calling hours will be held on Sunday, July 19 from 4 to 7 PM. Interment will be in Riverside Cemetery in North Reading.

In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made in his memory to: Lowell General Hospital Cancer Center, 295 Varnum Ave., Lowell, MA 01854. www.croswellfuneralhome.com

 

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Dorothy T. (Lewis) Jackson – 79, of Reading and formerly of North Reading, died Friday, July 3, 2015 at the Merrimack Valley Hospice House in Haverhill.

Born in Boston, MA on January 9, 1936, she was the daughter of the late Robert and Marie (Barry) Lewis.  Dorothy was a resident of North Reading for many years and a member of St. Theresa’s Church. She was a loving mother and grandmother.

Family members include her loving sons, Walter T. Jackson, Jr. of Wakefield and Kevin Jackson of Goffstown, NH;  daughters, Elaine Turner of Fort Lauderdale, FL, Denise Lemke of Andover, Deborah Pickens of Wakefield and Sheila Harvey of Andover;  brother, Emmett Lewis of Lowell and sisters, Sr. Maureen Lewis, SND of Worcester and Sandra Murphy of South Weymouth; 12 grandchildren and 7 great grandchildren.

Her funeral will be held from the Croswell Funeral Home, 19 Bow Street, North Reading on Wednesday, July 8 at 9:15 AM, followed by a 10:30 AM Funeral Mass at St. Theresa’s Church, 63 Winter Street (Rt. 62), North Reading. Calling hours will be held on Tuesday, July 7 from 6 to 8 PM. Burial will be in Walnut Hills Cemetery in Brookline. In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made in her memory to: St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital at  http://www.stjude.org  or to  Sisters of Notre Dame Retirement Fund, 468 Poquonock Ave, Windsor, CT 06095.

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George  R.  Bugley, II – 71, of North Reading, died at his home, after a courageous battle with cancer, on Tuesday, June 23, 2015.

Born in Chelsea, MA on December 28, 1943.  He was the son of the late William O. and Clara L. (Mank) Bugley. He was raised and attended school in North Reading and was a graduate of North Reading High School, Class of 1962. George worked as a Shipper and receiver for the Packard Paper Box Company in Peabody for many years and later worked as a Limo Driver for FlightLine in Salem, NH.

George was a kind man, he made a perfect neighbor, a simple man, who didn’t ask for much and was easy to please. He loved his family and friends and enjoyed company. He was very sentimental and cried from a gesture of love or a sappy movie.  He was a handy man and had the trinket for anything and could fix it.

He has been a resident of North Reading since 1957 and he enjoyed the Morning Senior Coffee Club at McDonalds.

Family members include his loving daughters, Michelle C. Cushing and her fiancé Norm Caissie of Cape Coral, FL and Kimberly A. Wright of North Reading; grandchildren, Emma and Hannah Wright, of North Reading (who resided with George) and Tyler and Cameron Bugley of Burlington; his brother, William Bugley and wife Suzanne of Tewksbury; his mother-in-law, Genevieve Patnoe of Nashua, NH;  his niece, Linda McCullough of Tewksbury and many other nieces and nephews. He was the father of the late Douglas  A. Bugley and brother of the late Edward Bugley and Joan (Bugley) Carter.

His funeral will be held at the Croswell Funeral Home, 19 Bow Street, North Reading on Friday, June 26 at 10 AM. Calling hours will be held on Thursday, June 25 from 4 to 8 PM. Burial will be in Riverside Cemetery in North Reading. Memorial donations may be made in his memory to the Life Choice Hospice, 790 Turnpike Street, Suite 302, North Andover, MA 01845.

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Allan  R.  Nelson -  81, of North Reading and formerly of Lynnfield, died Wednesday, June 17, 2015 at Winchester Hospital.

Born in Lynn, MA on September 3,1933. He was the son of the late Arthur W. and Bertha (Williams) Nelson.  Allan was a graduate of Wakefield High School and Bentley College.  He was the former manager and owner of the Sagamore Fuel Company, Inc. in Lynn.  Allan served in the U.S. Army, during the Korean Conflict.

He has been a resident of North Reading for the past 53 years and a member of the Aldersgate United Methodist Church. He has been an honorary Life member of the Saugus Elks, he was a Trustee for 17 years and served as Chaplin for a year.  He was chosen Elk of the Year in 1977 to 1978.  Allan was a Scoutmaster for Troop 52 in Lynnfield and was also a former Eagle Scout. He was very dedicated to his family, he was a loving husband, father and grandfather.

Family members include his loving wife of 53 years, Gail I. (Fudge) Nelson; his sons, Russell W. Nelson of Nashua, NH and Craig R. Nelson and his wife Ivy, grandchildren, Theo and Sarah Nelson, all of Revere; sisters, Janice A. Nelson and Norma L. Jones and her husband James, nephews, Jimmy and Jason Jones, all of West Peabody.

His funeral will be held on Tuesday, June 23 at Noon at the Aldersgate United Methodist Church, 235 Park Street, North Reading. Calling hours will be held at the Croswell Funeral Home, 19 Bow Street, North Reading on Monday, June 22 from 5 to 7 PM. Burial will be in Puritan Lawn Memorial Park Cemetery in Peabody. Memorial donations may be made in his memory to the charity of one’s choice. croswellfuneralhome.com

Richard  W.  Svehla -  59, of North Reading, formerly of Lexington, KY, passed peacefully, surrounded by his family on Saturday, June 13, 2015, at the Lahey Clinic Hospital in Burlington, MA, after a sudden illness.

Born in Chicago, Illinois on March 5, 1956. He was the son of the late William J. and Patricia R. (Sweeney) Svehla. He was a graduate of North Reading High School, Class of 1974.  Richard worked in the printing industry for many years. He was a resident of North Reading for the past 44 years and a member of St. Theresa’s Church.

He enjoyed New England sports teams, but having grown up in Lexington, KY, he was truly passionate about university of Kentucky basketball. You never saw him without a UK hat or t-shirt. Richard enjoyed concerts and attending the Chicago Blues Festival.

He thoroughly enjoyed watching his nieces play ice hockey, softball and volleyball through college.

Family members include his Loving brothers, Robert James Svehla and Michael Stanley Svehla, both of North Reading; his sister, Carol A. Morrissey and her husband Philip and nieces, Brenna and Rachel Morrissey (his Godchild), all of Salem, NH.

His Funeral will be held at the Croswell Funeral Home, 19 Bow Street, North Reading on Friday, June 19 at 7:00 PM. Calling hours will be held prior to the service from 5 to 7 PM. Interment will be held at a later date. Memorial donations may be made in his memory to the charity of one’s choice. croswellfuneralhome.com

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Barbara A. (Aylward) O’ Brien -  78, A long time resident of North Reading passed on Saturday, the sixth of June after a long illness.

Born in 1937, Barbara grew up in North Reading. She attended Reading High School and worked at the Reading Diner then as a bookkeeper in Boston. She married her husband of 58 years, Nick O’Brien, and moved periodically as he was enlisted in the Air Force. They settled in North Reading in an old farm house steadily working to improve the property. They started Nick O’Brien’s Service together with Barbara managing the books.

Barbara was a historian at heart, tirelessly and enthusiastically researching the history of many of the town’s oldest buildings and homes. She was a member of the Historical Society and Historical Commission always alert to protecting and restoring North Reading’s historical treasures. She was also a talented seamstress who along with other Minit and Militia ladies created authentic eighteenth century clothing for the entire regiment.

She is survived by her loving and devoted husband Philip H. O’Brien, better known as Nick O’Brien. She is also survived by her daughter Jessie and her husband Kevin, her son Philip and his wife Apryl as well as a beautiful granddaughter named Eva.

Funeral service will be held at the Union Congregational Church, 148 Haverhill Street, North Reading on Friday, June 12 at Noon.  Calling hours will be held at Croswell Funeral Home, 19 Bow Street, North Reading on Thursday, June 11th from 4:00 - 8:00 pm. Burial will be in Riverside Cemetery in North Reading. Memorial donations may be made in her memory to: Barbara O’Brien Memorial Fund, c/o Winter Hill Bank, 271 Main Street, North Reading, MA 01864.

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Wallace A. King of North Reading, died at his home on Thursday, June 4, 2015 at age 80. He was the loving husband of the late Joan P. (Bacigalupo) King.

Born in North Reading on June 1, 1935, he was the son of the late William W. and Maisy (Hudson) King. He was a life-long resident of North Reading. He was retired Union Carpenter, with Local No. 218.  He was also a member of the Masonic Lodge and a member of the North Reading Auxiliary Police Department.  Wallace loved hunting and fishing with family and friends, he enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren, it always was a special time for him.

Family members include his loving son, William J. King and his wife Cate of Merrimac, MA; daughters, Nancy T. (King) Brown  and her husband Richard of Beverly, Ruth King and Barbara (King) Nicosia, both of North Reading; his brother, Albert King of Raymond, NH and John King of California; his sisters, Betty (King) DeRego of Californiaand the late Evelyn DiNunzio  and the lateand the late Evelyn DiNunzio  Evelyn DiNunzio and the late Evelyn DiNunzio and seven cherished grandchildren.

Funeral services will be private and are under the direction of the Croswell Funeral Home, 19 Bow Street, North Reading.

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Margaret H. ("Mar") Davis,Of Needham, formerly of North Reading, passed away peacefully on June 4, 2015, at age 95.

Loving wife of 46 years to the late Howard A. Davis.

 

Margaret grew up in Ridgewood, N.J. , one of six children of Caroline Behre and Henry Bartlett Henze.  She graduated from Skidmore College and moved to Boston to train as a physical therapist, eventually becoming Chief Physical Therapist at Beth Israel Hospital in Boston.  After her marriage to Howard, the Davis's moved to North Reading MA where they were active members of the Union Congregational Church. Margaret was also active in Eastern Star and Town conservation issues.

 

She was known for her gentle caring spirit, love of music and nature , playfulness, humor and use of clever wordplay.

 

Predeceased by her brothers, Frederick, Richard, and Henry Henze and sister, Caroline Forman.

Survived by her sister, Helen Levermore of Pompton Plains, N.J. , sister-in-law, Jean Henze and niece, Sharon Henze, both of Needham, MA, niece, Laura Henze Russell of Sharon, MA and many more nieces and nephews.

 

The family wishes to thank the staffs of Atria Marland Place and Avita of Needham for their loving care of Mar.

 

Her funeral will be held at the Union Congregational Church, 148 Haverhill Street, North Reading on Tuesday, June 9 at 11:00 AM. There will be no calling hours. Burial will be in Wyoming Cemetery in Melrose.

 

Memorial donations in Margaret's memory may be made to the Alzheimer's Association, 480 Pleasant Street, Watertown, MA 02472.

 

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Walter  E. “Wally”  Ladd, Jr.  -  71, of Londonderry, NH and formerly of North Reading and Malden, died Saturday, May 30, 2015, at the Pleasant Valley Nursing Home in Derry, NH.

Born in Malden, MA on July 12, 1943, he was the son of the late Walter E.,Sr. and Ruth (Doherty)Ladd. He was raised and attended School in Malden. Wally worked for the Town of North Reading, he was a Bus Driver for the North Reading Senior Center for twenty years. He has been a resident of Londonderry, NH for the past 26 years and a former resident of North Reading for 15 years.

Wally would help everyone, he would give you the shirt off his back. He was very dedicated to his family, he was a loving father and grandfather.

He loved to fish and he enjoyed going to the Manchester Airport to watch the planes land and take off.  He was a golfer and he loved playing horseshoes at the annual Kavanaugh party. He loved to camp and going to his summer place in York, Maine.

He was the loving father of Lisa Lewis and her husband Garry of Atkinson, NH and Annette Keighley and her husband Charlie of Pelham, NH; grandfather of Ryan and Austin Lewis of Atkinson, NH, Brittany and Greg Penta of Newton, NH and Mike and Joshua Keighley of Pelham, NH. He was the companion of Maddie Adams of North Reading.

Calling hours will be held at the Croswell Funeral Home, 19 Bow Street, North Reading on Thursday, June 4 from 4 to 7 PM. There will be no funeral service. In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made in his memory to the charity of one’s choice.

 

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Leo  M. Petti, 88, of North Reading and formerly of Milford, MA, died at his home on Friday, May 29, 2015.

Born in Milford, MA on August 3, 1926.  He was the son of the late Leonardo and Maria (DiCanio) Petti. He was raised and attended school in Milford and was a graduate of Milford High School, Class of 1944. He received his B.S. in Electrical Engineering from Northeastern University in 1952 and his Masters in Electrical Engineering in 1958.

Leo was a U.S. Army Veteran of World War II. He worked for Sikorsky Aircraft in Bridgeport, CT, Westinghouse in Philadelphia, PA and later for General Electric, Aircraft Division in Lynn for 33 years. He was Registered Professional Engineer. Leo has been a resident of North Reading for the past 59 years and was a member of St. Theresa’s Church.

He was a devoted and loving husband, father and grandfather. He was a man of integrity and sharp wit. Leo was a practical-minded engineer who also kept his faith. He was an avid bridge player, master of Sudoku, crossword puzzle solver and he enjoyed a good mystery movie.

Family members include his loving wife of 62 years, Claire M. (Mazzarelli) Petti; his son, Christopher J. Petti and his wife Judy Atterholt of Mountain View, CA and their two children, Daniel and Anna Petti; his daughters, Paula L. Petti and her husband Lawrence Hall of Orinda, CA and their two children, Geoffrey and David Hall;  and Lisa M. Petti of Hamden, CT;  his brother, Anthony Petti and his wife Theresa and his sister, Nancy Nogueira and her husband James, all of Milford, MA. He was the father of the late Leonard F. Petti and brother of the late Philomena Fullum and Grace Daniels.

Funeral from the Croswell Funeral Home, 19 Bow Street, North Reading on Wednesday, June 3 at 9:45 AM, followed by a 11 AM Funeral Mass at St. Theresa’s Church, 63 Winter Street (Rt. 62), North Reading. Calling hours will be held on Tuesday, June 2 from 5 to 7 PM. Burial will be in Riverside Cemetery in North Reading. Memorial donations may be made in his memory to the charity of one’s choice.

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Donald W. Berridge - 64, of Methuen, Formerly of Londonderry, NH and North Reading, died unexpectedly at home on Tuesday, May 26, 2015.

Born in Winchester, MA on January 11, 1951. He was raised and attended school in North Reading and was a graduate of North Reading High School, Class of 1969. He was a member of the Army National Guard, with the 101st Engineer Battalion.

Donny was a Pipefitter and Welder for forty years, and a member of the Pipefitters Union Local 537 in Boston and has been retired for the past 8 years.

He was a wonderful and devoted husband, father and grandfather. He loved to make others around him laugh by telling jokes and playing pranks. Donny enjoyed working with his hands, which included anything from working on his home to fixing up his cars. He was a former umpire for Babe Ruth Baseball in Londonderry, NH. He liked listening to country music and reading the comics on Sunday mornings occasionally sending them to his family members so they could share in the laughter.

Family members include his loving wife of 41 years, Doreen (Nolan) Berridge; his daughter Lauren Berridge of Hollis, NH; his son, Matthew Berridge and his wife Charlene of Saugus; his mother Nancy Florence of North Reading; brothers, Jeffery Florence and his wife Chrissy of Palmer, MA, the late Robert Michael Florence and Stephen Florence; sisters, Nancy Lundgren and her husband Richard of Andover, Trisha Noonan and her husband Doug of MD, Marie DeLisle and her husband Steve; Lynda Florence, all of North Reading, Sandra Florence of Middleton, Heidi McMinn and her husband Mike of Holden, Holly DeLisle of Tewksbury, Laurie Morse of Salem, NH, Lynnann Florence of Canaan, ME and Wendy Florence of Methuen; cherished grandchildren, Camryn and Holly Berridge of Saugus.

His Funeral will be held at the Croswell Funeral Home, 19 Bow Street, North Reading on Thursday, June 4 at 10 AM. Calling hours will be held on Wednesday, June 3 from 4 to 7 PM. Interment will be in Riverside Cemetery in Saugus. In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made in his memory to the charity of one’s choice.

 

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Joel  M. Brush – 59, of Saugus and formerly of Reading, died Saturday, May 23, 2015, at Carney Hospital in Dorchester, after a long illness.

Born in Greenwich, CT on April 17, 1956.  He was the son of the late Howard F. and Arlene E. (Miller) Brush. Joel left school in Reading at age 15, to work for his father at the Boston Cheese Shop in Boston. He later worked as an auto mechanic for Midas and Meineke of the North Shore area. He was a member of the Multiple Sclerosis Society.

Joel was a very kind, respectful human being with beautiful Blue eyes. He was a true gentleman. He loved listening to music and popping wheelies on his Quickie 3 wheel chair and riding down town on his Amigo Scooter. He enjoyed smoking cigarettes, he loved cars, especially Oldsmobiles.

Family members include his loving wife of seventeen years, Karen T. (Yacovangelo) Brush of Saugus and formerly of North Reading; his son, Ryan P.  Brush and his wife Andrea of Peabody; his brother, Jeff Brush and his wife Shirley of Wilmington; sisters, Joan Hoyt of Andover and Barbara Russo and her husband Bernie of Burlington. Also survived by his grandson, Joel L. Brush of Peabody.

Funeral service will be held at the Croswell Funeral Home, 19 Bow Street, North Reading on Thursday, May 28 at 7 PM. Calling hours will be held prior to the service from 5 to 7 PM. Interment will be in Puritan Lawn Memorial Park Cemetery in Peabody. Memorial donations may be made in his memory to the National MS Society @ nmss.org, 101A First Ave., Waltham, MA 02451.

Elizabeth Andrews Rideout, “Betty”, 88, of North Reading MA, died at Winchester Hospital on Thursday, May 21, following a brief illness.

Betty was born in Somerville MA on June 5, 1926, the daughter of the late Pearl K. Andrews and Marguerite (Taylor) Andrews.

Raised in Belmont MA, Betty was a graduate of Belmont High School, Class of 1944. In her youth, she was active in the Girl Scouts and the Order of the Rainbow for Girls.

A 1947 graduate of McLean Hospital School of Nursing, Betty was able to attend nursing school through the Cadet Nurse Corps. As a Registered Nurse, she was employed as a Night Supervisor at McLean Hospital, a School Nurse in the North Reading School System, and as a Charge Nurse at the former Green Grove Nursing Home in North Reading. Betty met her husband, John B. Rideout, when they were both nursing students at McLean Hospital. They married on August 6, 1949, and were happily married for 56 years, until John’s passing in 2006.

After her retirement, Betty utilized her nursing background as a volunteer for over 20 years at Winchester Hospital. Through her volunteering, Betty made many friends, and enjoyed connecting with people sharing a kind word, a supportive presence and smile of assurance.

Betty was a member of the Union Congregational Church in North Reading for over 55 years. She held positions on the Church Council, the House Committee, the Pastoral Search Committee, as well as serving as a Deacon and a Confirmation Mentor. Betty was an active member of Faith Circle, and coordinated their Rummage Sales, and well as their table at the annual Church Fair.

Betty was a 50 year member and Past Worthy Matron of Mount Carmel Chapter No. 230, Order of the Eastern Star in North Reading, a member of the North Reading Historical and Antiquarian Society, and served as a Camp Nurse for the Camp Fire Girls at Harold Parker State Forest. Since 1976, Betty’s participation in the Nurse’s Health Study was very important to her.

Betty worked in her community through Christian Community Service, helping coordinate the mission of the local food pantry. Through her work in the schools, she participated as the local outreach representative for the Salvation Army.

With her late husband John, she enjoyed traveling and camping. In their travels, they saw much of New England, Pennsylvania, New York, Eastern Canada, and drove cross-country to Arkansas.  They attended many of John's Coast Guard Patrol Frigate reunions across the US and they enjoyed cruising to destinations such as Alaska, Bermuda and the Caribbean.  In Europe, a favorite trip was their 40th anniversary visit to Scotland and the Orkney Islands.

 Additionally, Betty and John vacationed at their second home in South Chatham MA where Betty would take her grandchildren on special excursions to the beach and the penny candy store.  Betty took joy in playing board games with her beloved grandchildren and attending many of their sporting, theatre and school events.

Betty is survived by her children, Judith (Rideout) Brown her husband, Stephen of Merrimack, NH and Mark A. Rideout and his wife Kathleen of Somersworth, NH. She was Mimi to her grandchildren, Kimberley (Brown) Fasano, and her husband Brian, Meredith Brown, Ryan Brown and his wife Margaret; Katelyn (Rideout) Carrington and her husband, Matthew, Tyler Rideout, and his wife, Angela, and Christopher Rideout; and three great-grandchildren: John S. Fasano, Eric B. Fasano, and Tucker W. Brown. Betty was the sister of the late Alexander T. Andrews, and she is survived by her sister-in-law Sheila M. Andrews and her nieces and nephews.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, May 30 at 10:30AM at the Union Congregational Church, 148 Haverhill St. North Reading, MA. Rev. Dr. Richard Hughes will officiate. A collation will immediately follow in the church hall. As we celebrate Betty’s life, join us in wearing her favorite color, red.

Family flowers only. For those who desire, memorial donations may be made to the organizations that were dear to Betty’s heart: Union Congregational Church, 148 Haverhill St., North Reading MA 01864; Friends of Winchester Hospital, 41 Highland Ave., Winchester, MA 01890; and Christian Community Service, P. O. Box 626, North Reading, MA 01864.

The Croswell Funeral Home, 19 Bow St., North Reading, MA is in charge of arrangements.www.croswellfuneralhome.com

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John  A.  Cumming – 87, of Osterville, formerly of North Reading and Arlington, died  at his home on Tuesday, May 19, 2015.

Born in South Boston, MA on January 28, 1928. He was the son of the late John and Carrie (Fredendal) Cumming.  He was a graduate of Arlington High School and under the GI Bill a graduate of Wentworth Institute of Technology in Boston. He also attended Night School at MIT. John was a U.S. Navy Veteran of World War II, he was a Seaman 1st Class and served from 1946 to 1947.

John has been a resident of Osterville for the past 27 years and a former resident of North Reading for 31 years. He worked as an Engineer for the General Electric Company in Lynn for forty years.

John loved his wife and children, they were his life. He had a special bond with his granddaughter Shane (his computer assistant). He loved visits and talking on the phone with her. He was cared for by so many people. He will be especially remembered for his laugh, the sparkle in his eye and the shrug of his shoulders. 

He was the beloved husband of 62 years to Jeanne A. (Hanson) Cumming;  the loving father of Philip Cumming and Scott Cumming and his wife Karen, all of North Reading, Debbie Cumming and her long time companion Ed McNeil of Brighton and the late Brian Cumming; he was the brother of Kenneth Cumming and his wife Nancy of CA, Donald Cumming and his wife Jackie of Boxborough and Ruthie Gibbs of MN. He was the cherished grandfather of Shane Cumming of North Reading.

His Funeral Service will be held at the Croswell Funeral Home, 19 Bow Street, North Reading on Wednesday, May 27 at Noon. Calling hours will be held prior to the service from 11:00 AM to 11:50 AM. Interment will be in Riverside Cemetery in North Reading. In Lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made in his memory to:  Christian Community Service - Food Pantry, 235 North St., North Reading, MA 01864 or to American Cancer Society (for Prostate Cancer), PO Box 22718. Oklahoma City, OK 73123-1718.

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http://www.croswellfuneralhome.com/Pictures/flag.jpgGeorge  E.  Rightmyer75, of Freedom, NH and formerly of North Reading, died at his home, on Monday, May 11, 2015.

Born in Charlestown, MA on July 11, 1939.  He was the son of the late Edward C. and  Blanche A. (Upton) Rightmyer. He was raised in North Reading and attended the L.D. Batchelder School and Reading High School. He was a U.S. Navy Veteran, he served from 1956 to 1960.

George  was the former owner and operator of Kirby Vacuum Cleaners Sales and Service in Peabody, for many years. He was a member of the North Reading Minutemen and Militia and was active in North Reading politics for many years. He has been a resident of Freedom, NH since 2004.

George was loving person and was very generous to everyone. He enjoyed making crafts in his cellar workshop and was a proud U.S. Navy Veteran. 

Family members include his loving sisters, Corinne A. Surette of North Reading, the late Joan A. Brewster and Lorraine A. Skelton;  nephews, Robert A. Austin of Taunton, Steven Austin of Indiana, Peter and Edward Surette of North Reading and Paul Surette of Billerica, Jerry, Ralph and John Skelton;  nieces, Elizabeth Tatom of Arizona and Lorraine Mendiola of California; he was the uncle of the late Thomas Surette; George has many great nieces and nephews from North Reading and California and many cousins in the Boston area. He is also survived by his loving dog, Darby.

Funeral services will be held at the Croswell Funeral Home, 19 Bow Street, North Reading on Monday, May 18 at 10:30 AM.  Calling hours will be held on Sunday, May 17 from 4 to 6 PM. Burial will be in Riverside Cemetery in North Reading. Memorial donations may be made in his memory to the charity of one’s choice. www.croswellfuneralhome.com

 

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http://www.croswellfuneralhome.com/Pictures/flag.jpgRobert  G.  Coffill, Sr. – 84, of Andover, formerly of North Reading and Lynnfield died Tuesday, May 5, 2015.

     Born in Melrose, MA on October 20,1930, he was the son of the late William M. and Charlotte A. Coffill. He attended Lynnfield schools and was a graduate of Wakefield High School, Class of 1948.

     Robert had been a longtime resident of North Reading for over 50 years where he was a member of the Union Congregational Church and a U.S. Air Force Veteran of the Korean Conflict.

     Mr. Coffill worked for The Great Atlantic & Pacific Tea Company for over 30 years, he was a local businessman and worked for the Union Congregational Church in North Reading.

     Robert loved all sports and especially enjoyed fishing. He also enjoyed music and most importantly spending time with family and friends.

     He was the loving husband of 49 years to the late Joan M. (Somers) Coffill. He is survived by his brother, William Coffill and his wife Ruth of Lynnfield and is also survived by his sons, Robert G. Coffill, Jr., and Dana W. Coffill and his wife Lisa of North Reading; 4 special grandchildren, Michael Coffill and Carl, Shanna and Brooke Coffill, all of North Reading.

     A memorial service will be held at the Union Congregational Church, 148 Haverhill Street, North Reading on Saturday, May 16th at 10:00 AM. Calling hours will be held at the Croswell Funeral Home , 19 Bow Street, North Reading on Friday May15th from 5:00 to 7:00 PM.

     In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in his memory to the American Cancer Society, 30 Speen Street, Framingham, MA 01701 or to the Union Congregational Church, 148 Haverhill Street, North Reading, MA 01864.

 

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Patricia  M. (O’Brien)  Sully  -  82, of North Reading, formerly of Chelsea, Everett and Cambridge, died Wednesday, May 6, 2015, at Winchester Hospital. She was the beloved wife of 61 years to the late James J. Sully, who died in 2013. 

Born in Cambridge, MA on January 27,1933. She was the daughter of the late Joseph F. and Rose V. (Friel) O’Brien. She was a graduate of St. Mary’s High School in Cambridge. Patricia was a mother and homemaker, she was an avid reader, with a large collection of books. In her youth, she enjoyed yard work and gardening. She has been a resident of North Reading for the past 42 years.

Patricia was the loving mother of Richard J. Sully of Lynnfield, Deborah M. Sully of Wakefield, Stephen J. and James J. Sully of North Reading and the late Daniel C. Sully; grandmother of Joseph and Lisa  Tutrone, Maria and Ashley Sully; great grandmother of Isabella and Dominic Tutrone. 

Private services will be held at Croswell Funeral Home, 19 Bow Street, North Reading. Burial will be in Riverside Cemetery in North Reading. Memorial donations may be made in her memory to the charity of one’s choice. www.croswellfuneralhome.com

 

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http://www.croswellfuneralhome.com/Pictures/flag.jpgHenry W. Waters – 81, of North Reading and formerly of Union, Maine, died Friday, May 1, 2015 at Wingate of Reading. He was the beloved husband of 57 years to the late Maria A. (Mandarino) Waters, who died on March 15, 2014.            

Born in Bangor, Maine on May 21, 1933. He was the son of the late William Waters and Veda (Cunningham) Scott. He was a graduate of Union High School in Maine, Class of 1951.

Henry was a U.S. Navy Veteran of the Korean Conflict, he served from 1951 to 1955 and then reenlisted for an additional six years until 1961. He served in Naples, Italy, where he met his wife the true love of his life Maria. He was a Ward Clerk at the VA Hospital in Togus, Maine. After his retirement he worked for Walmart Pharmacy and Shaw’s Supermarket, both in Rockland, Maine.

Henry was a faithful member of the God’s Lighthouse Church, in Rockland, Maine, where he served as a Deacon and Church Treasurer. Henry was a member of the VFW, in Rockland, Maine. While living in North Reading, for the past year, he was an active member of the Senior Center and he especially was fond of Wednesday Bingo games at the Center.

Henry was an avid gardener, he enjoyed reading and crossword puzzles. He loved greeting fair goers at the gate of the Union Fair yearly where he was employed during the summer. Henry was a real people person and easily made new friends. He loved playing cribbage and board games with the grandchildren and spending time with family pets, Cooper and Daisy.

Family members include his loving daughters, Catherine Lento and her husband Guy of North Reading, Elizabeth Hayes and her husband Troy of Friendship, ME and Theresa Waters of Thomaston, ME; his brother, Randy (Ralph) Scott and his wife Carol of Union, ME and his sister, Patricia Howes and her husband Keith of Carmichael, CA; seven grandchildren, Rachel, Alicia, Stephanie, Victoria and Danielle Lento, Katherine and Nicholas Simoneau. Stepson of the late Herman Scott.

His Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, May 9 at 10:00 AM at the Trinity Evangelical Church, 105 Haverhill Street, North Reading. A reception will follow the service at the church hall. There will be no calling hours. Interment will be held in Union, Maine at a later date. In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made in his memory to: God’s Lighthouse Church, 78 South Main Street, Rockland, ME 04841 or to the Trinity Evangelical Church, 105 Haverhill Street, North Reading, MA 01864.

Arrangements are by the Croswell Funeral Home, 19 Bow Street, North Reading.

 

 

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http://www.croswellfuneralhome.com/Pictures/flag.jpgCharles  J. Reagan – 90, of North Reading, died Saturday, April 25,2015, at North Shore Medical Center, Salem Hospital. He was the beloved husband of the late Madeline M. (Gushue) Reagan, who died last September 17, 2014, after 57 years of marriage.

Born in Medford, MA on September 28, 1924.  He was the son of the late James L. and Mary (Moriarty) Reagan. He was a graduate of Somerville High School and Burdette School of Business in Boston. Charles was a U.S. Navy Veteran of World War II and the Korean Conflict. He served from 1942 to 1946 and Reenlisted in 1947 and served until 1951.

Charles was self employed business owner. He was a Candy Broker and owned and operated Stockdale and Reagan, Inc. for 43 years. He was well known as the “Candyman” and was inducted in the Candy Hall of Fame in Hersey, PA in 2002. He has been a resident North Reading for 57 years and was a member of St. Theresa’s Church.

He loved to tell stories about the Navy. He loved his family with a passion. He enjoyed his work and parties with friends. He enjoyed taking movies of the family growing up and kept meticulous photo albums, he liked reading about World War II, Civil War and the History Channel. Charles loved traveling, cruising and his trip to Ireland. He keep memories alive of his cousin Francis, who died in World War II and all his beloved family and friends, that passed before him.

Family members include his loving son, James E. Reagan and his wife Brenda of Derry, NH;  daughters, Carol M. Rice and her husband Paul of Concord, MA and Patricia A. Ryan and her husband Matthew of Salem, MA;  his sister, Eleanor Whelan and her husband Larry of Hampstead, NH;  grandchildren, Kerry and Matthew Reagan of Derry, NH, Michelle Rice of Rouge City, OR and Lilly Ryan of Salem, MA.

His Funeral will be held from the Croswell Funeral Home, 19 Bow St., North Reading on Thursday, April 30 at 9 AM, followed by a 10:30 AM Funeral Mass at St. Theresa’s, 63 Winter St. (Rt. 62), North Reading. Calling hours will be held on Wednesday, April 29 from 4 to 8 PM. Burial will be in Riverside Cemetery in North Reading. Memorial donations may be made in his memory to: Wounded Warrior Project, www.woundedwarriorproject.com 

 

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Paul  J. “Buddy” Woods - 65, of North Reading and formerly of Charlestown, died Friday, April 24, 2015, at the Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston.

Born in Boston, MA on October 27, 1949. He was the son of the late John L., Sr. and Ruth (Joyce) Woods. He has lived in North Reading for the past 60 years. He was a graduate of North Reading High School, Class of 1967. He attended Bridgeton Academy in 1968 and was a graduate of Springfield College, Class of 1972.

Buddy was a well known business owner and Real Estate agent in town. He was a member of St. Theresa’s Church and the Loyal Order of Moose, No. 1511 in North Reading. Buddy loved football and was well known for his many athletic achievements, he was inducted into the North Reading Football Hall of Fame, Bridgeton Academy Hall of Fame and at Springfield College he was awarded, Defensive Player of the Decade.

Buddy was a giving, loving person, who would give his last dollar to anyone who needed it. He was especially caring to his family and friends. He was well liked by many and he always had a positive attitude.

Family members include his loving daughter, Casey Woods of Fort Myers, FL and his son, Nathan Woods of Dracut; his brothers, John L. Woods, Jr. and William Woods, Sr., both of North Reading and Daniel Woods and his wife Nancy of Lawrence;  sisters, Marsha Pierce and her husband Arthur of Palm Bay, FL, Ruth A. Lucci and her husband Anthony of North Andover and Kathleen Roberts and her husband Richard of North Reading; his long time friend, Beth Jones of Merrimac and many nieces and nephews. He was the brother of the late Thomas and Michael Woods.

His Funeral will be held from the Croswell Funeral Home, 19 Bow St., North Reading on Wednesday, April 29 at 9 AM followed by a 10:30 AM Funeral Mass at St. Theresa’s Church, 63 Winter St., North Reading.  Calling hours will be held on Tuesday, April 28 from 4 to 8 PM. Burial will be in Riverside Cemetery in North Reading. Memorial donations may be made in his memory to: American Stroke Association, P.O. Box 417005, Boston, MA 02241-7005.  www.croswellfuneralhome.com

 

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Nancy  J. ( Terhune) Doucette – 83, of Wakefield, died Wednesday, April 22, 2015 at Wingate at Reading. She was the beloved wife of the late John Doucette, Jr.

Born in Plainfield, NJ on September 14, 1931, she was the daughter of the late Frank  and Carol (Greenlaw) Terhune.

Nancy was a graduate of Tufts School of Dental Hygenist. Nancy owned and operated the Cubby Hole Stationers, Inc. in Wakefield with her late husband John Doucette, until they retired.

Nancy was dedicated to her family and was a devoted grandmother.  She was a long time member of the First Baptist Church of Wakefield, where she was a member of the Junction Circle.

Family members include her Loving son, Jack Doucette and his wife Louise of Saugus ; her daughter, Pamela Babcock and her husband Tom and her granddaughter Laura Babcock, all of North Reading.

Her funeral service will be held at the First Baptist Church of Wakefie, 8 Lafayette Street, Wakefield on Monday, April 27 at 11 AM. Calling hours will be held at the Croswell Funeral Home, 19 Bow Street, North Reading on Sunday from 4 to 7 PM. Memorial donations may be made in her memory to the First Baptist Church of Wakefield, 8 Lafayette Street, Wakefield, MA 01880. 

 

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http://www.croswellfuneralhome.com/Pictures/flag.jpgMurray E. Wolf – 77, of North Andover, died unexpectedly on Wednesday, April 22, 2015 at the Lawrence General Hospital.

Born in Philadelphia, PA on March 21,1938. He was the son of the late Herman and Rose (Jacobson) Wolf. He was a graduate of Overbrook High School in PA and Northeastern University, where he received his Master’s Degree in Engineering. He was a U.S. Army Veteran.

Murray worked as an engineer for Textron (formerly AVCO) in Wilmington and for General Electric Company. He was co-owner of the Sea Wolf Restaurant in Methuen, with his wife Marilyn . He was a former resident of Andover for forty years and a member of the Temple Emanuel in Andover. He was a member of the retirement Club at Textron and served in various committees at Brightview in North Andover.

He was the best husband and father. He was compassionate to everyone, he was generous, kind and a warm person. He was an organ donor. Murray was an avid golfer. He enjoyed poker and all sports. He loved Bridge and tennis and he also wrote a book about Bridge.

Beloved husband of 40 years to Marilyn L. (Smith) Wolf;  loving father of Donald Tiney of Bradford, Brian Wolf of NJ and Rick Tiney of Conway, NH, Lisa Wolf of Philadelphia, PA and Barbara Tiney of Napa Valley, CA; brother of Diane Winestock of Philadelphia, PA. Also survived by 10 grandchildren and 2 great grandchildren.

Graveside service will be held the Temple Emanuel Cemetery, 202 Mount Vernon St., Lawrence on Sunday, April 26 at 1 PM. A memorial service will be held at a later date. Memorial donations may be made in his memory to: American Heart Association, 20 Speen St., Framingham, MA 01701. Arrangements are by Croswell Funeral Home, 19 Bow St., North Reading.

 

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Paul  H.  Barton  - 76, of Reading, died at his home, surrounded by his family on Friday, April 17, 2015.

Born in Winchester, MA on January 13, 1939. He was the son of the late Harold M. and Eleanor B. (Eisenhaur) Barton. He was a lifelong resident of Reading. He attended Reading Schools and was a graduate of Reading Memorial High School, Class of 1956.

Paul worked as a Sales Representative for Rainin Instruments in Woburn for many years and has been retired for the past twenty years.

He loved his family and his many hobbies. He spent many hours of enjoyment on his computer, photographing his collections and his family, especially his grandchildren. Paul enjoyed many travel adventures with his wife and children, over the years. He travelled to London, Bermuda, Russia and throughout the USA and Europe. He was an avid book and antique collector. He was a member of the Society of Archer Antiquaries and Archery Collector’s Guild.

Family members include his loving wife of 56 years, Eleanor (Shaw) Barton; his daughter, Pauline  E. Nelson and her husband John of Pelham, NH; his son, Michael R. H. Barton and his wife Laura of Tyngsborough;   3 grandchildren, Cate, Ian and Anna Barton; his sister, Margaret Locke and her husband Sherman of North Reading and his late brother, Robert L. Barton.  Also survived by several cousins and a nephew.

His funeral service will be held at the Croswell Funeral Home, 19 Bow Street, North Reading on Wednesday, April 22 at 10:30 AM. Calling hours will be held on Tuesday from 4 to 7 PM. Burial will be in Puritan Lawn Memorial Park Cemetery in Peabody. Memorial donations may be made in his memory to the charity of one’s choice. www.croswellfuneralhome.com

 

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http://www.croswellfuneralhome.com/Pictures/flag.jpgAgrippino “Pete” Cardello85, of Danvers and formerly of North Reading, died at his home on Thursday, April 16, 2015.

Born in East Boston, MA on June 7, 1929. He was the son of the late Guiseppe and Rose (Simoli) Cardello. He was a graduate of Boston Mechanic Arts High School, Class of 1947.  Pete was a U.S. Army Veteran of the Korean Conflict, he was a Sergeant and served from 1951 to 1953.

Pete was a Salesman for Pastene Wine and Spirits in Somerville, from 1965 to 1991. He also worked for Arthur’s Liquors in Everett, from 1955 to 1965 and W.T. Grants in Medford from 1953 to 1955.

He was dedicated to his family.  He loved to talk, he enjoyed food, people  and his work. He has been a resident of Danvers for the past five years and a former resident of North Reading for fifty years, where he was a member of St. Theresa’s Church.

Family members include his loving wife of 60 years, Eleanor (Columbare) Cardello; his son, Peter Cardello and his wife Madeleine of Topsfield and his daughter, Patricia Ceasar and her husband Scott of Montclair, New Jersey; his grandson, Matthew Cardello of Topsfield; many nieces and nephews. He was the brother of the late Salvatore and Joseph Cardello, Jr.

His Funeral Mass will be held on Tuesday, April 21 at 11 AM at St. Theresa’s Church, 63 Winter Street (Rt. 62), North Reading. Calling hours will be held at the Croswell Funeral Home, 19 Bow Street, North Reading on Monday, April 20 from 3 to 7 PM. Burial will be in Riverside Cemetery in North Reading. Memorial donations may be made in his memory to: Alzheimer’s Association, 480 Pleasant St., Watertown, MA 02472.

 

 

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Joseph  L. Viveiros 89, of Bourne, formerly of Florida and North Reading, died Wednesday, April 8, 2015, at the Bourne Manor in Bourne.  He was the beloved husband of 43 years to the late Beverly A. (Rogers) Viveiros, who died on April 3. Joe was a retired twenty five year member of the North Reading Police Department, he served from 1956 to 1980.

Born in Fall River, MA on June 2, 1925, he was the son of the late Joseph and Georgianna (Pavao) Viveiros. He was a graduate of Lowell High School. Joe was a U.S. Army Veteran of World War II. He served from 1943 to 1946 and was a  Technician Fifth Grade, he was a Paratrooper and served a year in Germany.

Joe also built and sold homes for many years and he managed a few restaurants. He also bought and sold boats and he volunteered with the Bourne Harbormaster.

Joe loved his wife Beverly with all his heart and soul, they were both soul mates. They loved spending time together, shopping, cooking and boating together. He was man of his word and always meant what he said. If you were a friend or loved one of Joe’s, that he really cared about, he would do anything for you and would be there for you. Basically Joe is “What you saw, is what you got”.

Joe had many hobbies, boating, fishing, cooking, clam digging and would give stuffed quahogs and give them away to everyone he loved. He loved making his famous Kale and Chicken soup. Joe loved going on vacations, living in Florida for some time and buying cars.

He is survived by two sons, Michael Viveiros of Nashua and Steven Viveiros of Lawrence; his daughter, Maria Amaral of Florida; dear friends, Elizabeth Eddy , John Routhier ,  Tom Colbert of Bourne and Bud Siroomian of Weymouth.

His Funeral Mass will be held, together with his wife Beverly, at St. Theresa’s Church, 63 Winter St., (Rt. 62), North Reading on Thursday, April 16 at 10:30 AM. Interment will be in the Massachusetts National Cemetery in Bourne at 2:30 PM. Calling hours will be held at the Croswell Funeral Home, 19 Bow St., North Reading on Wednesday, April 15 from 5 to 8 PM. Memorial donations may be made in his memory to: St. Judes Children’s Research Hospital, PO Box 1000, Dept. 142, Memphis, TN 38101-9908. www.croswellfuneralhome.com

 

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Jacquelyn  B.  (Kocinski) Papia – 87, of North Andover and formerly of Topsfield, and Tonawanda and Buffalo, NY, died Saturday, April 4, 2015 at Sutton Hill Center in North Andover.

Born in Buffalo, NY, she was the daughter of the late Thadeus and Elizabeth (Lipecki) Kocinski.  She was the loving wife of her late husband Gerald C. Papia, mother of their two daughters Susan Krzysko and her husband David of North Reading and Linda Schueler and her husband Mark of North Tonawanda, NY and grandmother to the late Paul (P3) Delaney and Corrie Delaney of North Tonawanda.  She is also survived by 3 sisters-in-law, Geraldine Papia, Theresa Papia and Mary Margaret Papia and 7 nieces and nephews. 

Jackie graduated from University of Buffalo where she met her husband Gerry.  She loved to play piano and gave piano lessons in her home as she raised their children.  She was also a Brownie Leader for a local troop.   As the girls reached high school age, she turned to teaching high school math and obtained her Master’s degree in the process.  During this time she also played the organ for her church.  In 1976 Jackie and her husband moved to Topsfield, MA so Gerry could continue his career.   Here, Jackie substitute taught at the local junior and senior high schools and later worked in an accounting office.  In continuing pursuit of her love for music, she played the organ for her church and sang in the Newburyport chorus.  Jackie also loved to sew and do crafts.   Having learned to sew from her tailor grandfather, she made clothes for her girls when they were young, and later made American Girl Doll clothes which she sold at a local consignment shop.  She also loved quilting and needlecraft projects both in human scale and in dollhouse scale.  Jackie will be missed by all those who knew her. 

Funeral services will be private and there will be no calling hours.  In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made in her memory to “Smile Train”, PO Box 96231, Washington, DC, 20090-6231.  Arrangements are by Croswell Funeral Home, 19 Bow St., North Reading, MA.

 

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Beverly  A. (Rogers) Viveiros71, of Bourne, formerly of Florida and North Reading, died Friday, April 3, 2015 at the Tremont Rehabilitation in Bourne. She was the loving wife of 43 years to the late Joseph L. Viveiros, who died on April 8.

Born in Melrose, MA on September 17, 1943. She was the daughter of the late Wilfred C. and Frances (Meehan) Rogers. Beverly was raised and attended school in North Reading. She worked as a waitress for at the Jade Restaurant in Tewksbury for ten years and Peking Palace in Falmouth for ten years.

Beverly was a very friendly and outgoing person, she enjoyed the beach, shopping, dressing up, cooking, decorating and entertaining. She was a former foster mother and she loved children. She was a homemaker and a dedicated wife to her husband Joe, they loved spending time together, shopping, cooking, boating and traveling.

Family members include her brothers, William Rogers of Sandwich, Paul Rogers of NC and Mark Rogers of Boxford; sisters, Kathleen MacMaster of Melrose and Sheila Pepper of Methuen; sister-in-law and dear friend of Patricia Rogers, Elizabeth Eddy,  and John Routhier of Bourne also survived by many nieces and nephews.

Her Funeral Mass will be held together, with her husband Joseph, at St. Theresa’s Church, 63 Winter Street (Rt. 62), North Reading on Thursday, April 16 at 10:30 AM. Interment will be held in the Massachusetts National Cemetery in Bourne at 2:30 PM. Calling hours will be held at the Croswell Funeral Home, 19 Bow Street, North Reading on Wednesday, April 15 from 5 to 8 PM. Memorial donations may be made in her memory to: St. Judes Children’s Research Hospital, PO Box 1000, Dept. 142, Memphis, TN 38101-9908. www.croswellfuneral home.com

 

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Donna T. (Dario) Lynch - 73, of North Reading and formerly of Woburn, died Sunday, March 29, 2015 at Exeter Hospital in Exeter, NH, surrounded by her family.

Born in Brookline, MA on August 8, 1941.  She was the daughter of the late James C., Sr. and Carmen (Jodice) Dario.  She was a graduate of Mary Cliff Academy.  Donna has been a resident of North Reading for the past 12 years, and a member of St. Theresa's Church.  She was an amazing mother and grandmother.

When people met her for the first time they knew they had made a new friend.  She made it a point to talk to them and asked about their families.  She also loved to talk about her children and grandchildren.  She always shared her love of cooking and baking for others.  Not a day went by that she wasn't in the kitchen, baking something for family and

friends.  She enjoyed watching cooking shows to get new recipes.

For years she lived across the street from the Fire Station and she couldn't have felt safer.  To show them how she felt she would cook and bake for them as much as she could.  They welcomed her with open arms.

Donna touched so many lives and she will be sorely missed by so many people.   

Family members include her loving sons, Tim Lynch and his wife Renee of Newark, DE, Chris Lynch and his wife Lynn of Kingston, NH; her daughter Cheryl Douglas and her husband Jonathan of Royersford, PA; her sister Deanne Sferrino and her husband Vincent of Burlington, MA; her late brother James C. Dario, Jr. (Jackie); 8 grandchildren, Brian Lynch and his wife Danielle, Stephen Lynch, Kevin Lynch, Jordan and Dana Douglas, Brennan and Danielle Nichols.

Her Funeral Mass will be held from the Croswell Funeral Home, 19 Bow St., North Reading on Monday, April 6 at 9:15 AM, followed by a 10:30 AM Funeral Mass at St. Theresa's Church, 63 Winter St. (Rt. 62), North Reading.  Calling hours will be held on Sunday, April 5 from 5 to 8 PM.  In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in her memory to:  North Reading Firefighter's Relief Association, 152 Park St., North Reading, MA 01864.

 

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AnnaBelle (Gibson) Sentas89, of North Reading and formerly of Lynn, died Friday, March 27, 2015, at Winchester Hospital. She was the beloved wife of the late Peter Sentas.

Born in Millinocket, Maine on April 30, 1925, she was the daughter of the late Philip and Eva B. (Sandstrom) Gibson .  AnnaBelle worked at General Electric and Premier Shoe, both in Lynn and with her husband in Boston at a Deli called  Cheez Import. She loved to play bingo, knit afghans for everyone and go out to dinner. She also enjoyed going to Foxwoods.

AnnaBelle was always full of life, was kind to everyone and always easily pleased no matter what she was doing.

Family members include her loving sons, John Sentas and his wife Ruth of Lynnfield, Bruce Sentas and his wife Terry of Hanson; her daughter, Lucy (Sentas) McCarthy and her husband Paul of North Reading; sisters, June Murphy and her husband Howard and Jane Hinds and her husband Robert, all of Lynn and Phyllis Greenspan of Florida; 10 grandchildren and 14 great grandchildren.

Funeral services will be private and there will be no calling hours. In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made in her memory to: Winchester Hospital Foundation, 611 Main St., Suite 204, Winchester, MA 01890. Arrangements are by Croswell Funeral Home, 19 Bow St., NORTH READING.

 

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Edward  Donald  McKenzie – 89, of North Andover and formerly of North Reading, died Sunday, March 15, 2015 at the Lawrence General Hospital in Lawrence.

 

Born in East Boston, MA on July 11, 1925 and married to his beloved Jean for 55 years who passed in 2003. They raised their children in North Reading, MA. His Daughter, Jeanann McKenzie of New Bedford, MA, son Don McKenzie and his wife Nancy of Newtown, PA, Scott McKenzie and his wife Cindy of Duluth, GA and grandchildren Collin McKenzie, and Jackie McKenzie survive Ed.

 

Ed worked as an accountant at Western Electric in North Andover for many years and was particularly proud of his years running The Gavin House in South Boston, MA, helping those suffering from substance abuse.

 

Ed was a proud veteran and served in the U.S. Navy during WWII from 1943 to 1945.  

 

He will be well remembered as a loving husband, wonderful father and a special grandfather. He had great love for his family and a wonderful sense of humor. There will be no service or calling hours. In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made in his memory to: American Cancer Society, 30 Speen Street, Framingham, MA 01701.               Arrangements are by the Croswell Funeral Home, 19 Bow Street, North Reading. www.croswellfuneralhome.

 

 

June F. Fiske – March 7, 2015 age 93.

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Karen (Meuse) Stickney -  55, of Andover and formerly of North Andover, died, Saturday, February 28, 2015 at Brigham & Women’s Hospital in Boston.

She was born in Winchester and raised in Woburn. Karen was a resident of Andover for the past twenty years and was a member of St. Augustine’s Church. She was a dedicated employee of Tufts University for 28 years, working in operations.

Karen always made a point of acknowledging the achievements of others. Whether it was her family, friends or acquaintances, she would take the time to recognize and congratulate them. Her favorite expressions: Don’t ever talk or judge…you never know what your future holds. I always know a true friend, because they never left my side.

Family members include her loving husband of 22 years, Stephen D. Stickney; her son, Matthew S. Stickney and her daughter, Meghan R. Stickney, all of Andover; her parents, Ada L. (Meehan) Meuse of Billerica and the late Joseph J. Meuse;  brothers, Joseph J. Meuse, Jr. of Topsham, ME; John P. Meuse and his wife Kathy of Billerica and Gerald R. Meuse and his wife Judy of Sagamore Beach, MA; her sister, Mary A. Walby and her husband Charles of Madison, CT.  Also survived by many nieces and nephews.

Memorial Funeral Mass will be held at St. Augustine’s Church in Andover on Wednesday, March 18 at 10:30 AM. There will be no calling hours and interment will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made in her memory to: Massachusetts Charitable Mechanic Association, 353 Southern Artery, Quincy, MA 02169.  Arrangements are by the Croswell Funeral Home, 19 Bow St., North Reading.

 

Betty Ann (Malone) Meuse – 79, of North Reading and formerly of Stoneham, died Saturday, February 28, 2015, at Wingate at Reading.

Born in Somerville, MA on January 24, 1936. She was a graduate of Stoneham, High School. Betty Ann was a homemaker and the loving wife of 60 years to Clifford H. Meuse, Jr.

Her funeral will be held on Thursday, March 5, at 11:00 AM, at the Croswell Funeral Home, 19 Bow Street, North Reading. Calling hours will be held prior to the funeral from 9 to 10:50 AM. Burial will be in Riverside Cemetery in North Reading. www.croswellfuneralhome.com

 

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Anthony  R.  Gurliaccio  - 84, of North Reading and formerly of East Boston, died Friday, February 27, 2015, at the Meadow View Center in North Reading. He was the husband of the late Irene (Crognale) Gurliaccio.

Born in East Boston, MA on February 1, 1931. He was the son of the late  Lazzaro and Guiseppina (DeMeo) Gurliaccio.  He was raised in East Boston and was a graduate of East Boston High School.  Anthony was a U.S. Army Veteran of the Korean Conflict, he served in 1952. He was a retired U.S. Postal Clerk.

He has lived at 29 Main Street in North Reading for the past 27 years and was a member of St. Theresa’s Church. He enjoyed ballroom dancing, telling jokes, collecting post cards and going to post card shows.

Family members include his niece, Karen T. Brush of Bryant Pond, ME and Lisa Ward of Wilmington;  his sister- in-law, Margi Gurli of Chelsea, brother-in-law, Rocky Ciancio of Wakefield  and several grand nieces and grand nephews; he was the brother of the late Michael Gurliaccio, Joseph Gurli, L. Catherine Ciancio, Geraldine Yacovangelo and Eleanor Gurliaccio. Also survived by his stepson, Dr. Dino Crognale and his wife Dr. Janice Crognale and their two daughters and a son, living in Kenya, Africia, as missionaries for many years.

His Funeral will be held from the Croswell Funeral Home ,19 Bow Street, North Reading on Wednesday, March 4 at 9 AM, followed by a 10:30 AM Funeral Mass at St. Theresa’s Church, 63 Winter Street (Rt. 62) North  Reading. Calling hours will be held on Wednesday, prior to the Funeral Mass from 9 to 10 AM. Interment will be held in the Chapel Hill Mausoleum in Holy Cross Cemetery in Malden. www.croswellfuneralhome.com

 

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Richard Allen Mayo, 78, of North Reading and formerly of Everett, died on Sunday February 8, 2015 at his home in North Reading surrounded by family. 

Born in Boston on November 4, 1936,  Dick was the son of Harold H. and Margaret (Green) Mayo and after his mother’s early death was raised by his Uncle Lawrence and Aunt Marie (Green) Denish.  He was raised in Everett and was a graduate of Everett Vocational School and Wentworth Institute of Technology. He was a master mechanic by trade and a wood craftsman by passion.  He was a member of the Andover Sportsmen Club, and enjoyed bowling, golfing, writing, and puttering.

Dick was a family man, hardworking and loving, always ready to share an encouraging word and sound advice.  He was the beloved husband of the late Priscilla H. (Ahlin) Mayo with whom he shared more than 50 years; loving father of Richard A. Mayo Jr. and his wife Karen of North Reading, and C. Scott Mayo and his wife Meredith of North Andover; grandfather of Michael Mayo and his wife Melissa of Rumford ME, Joshua Mayo and Sarah Mayo of North Andover; great-grandfather of Russell Alan and Charles Richard Mayo of Rumford, ME; brother of Harold J. Mayo, Catherine Gibbons, Shirley Denish Moore, Lawrence E. Denish and Nancy Fraser, all of Everett.   

His Funeral will be held at the Croswell Funeral Home, 19 Bow Street, North Reading on Saturday, February 14, at 11 AM. Calling hours will be held on Friday, February 13, from 3 to 7 PM.  Memorial donations may be made to: North Reading Citizen’s Scholarship Foundation, Cilla Mayo Endowment Fund, 191 Park Street, North Reading, MA 01864.

 

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William T. Nickerson, III – 26, of Derry, NH, formerly of Pepperell, Woburn and North Reading, died unexpectedly at his home on Sunday, February 8, 2015.

Born in Melrose, MA on September 27, 1988.  He was a graduate of Woburn High School. He worked for the Cushing Carnival Company in Wilmington and he also was a snow plow driver for Pearce Construction in North Reading. He was always known to be very outgoing and friendly.

Family members include his parents, William T. Nickerson, Jr. of Derry, NH and Kim Dalton of Pepperell; his sister, Courtney Sullivan of Pepperell; his grandfather,  Duke Dalton of Florida; his stepmother, Norma Lank of Derry, NH and many cousins.

His funeral will be held at the Croswell Funeral Home, 19 Bow Street, North Reading on Tuesday, February 17 at 11 AM. Calling hours will be held on Monday, February 16  from 3 to 7 PM. Burial will be in Riverside Cemetery in North Reading.  Memorial donations may be made in his memory to the charity of one’s choice. www.croswellfuneralhome.com

 

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 Services Postponed to March 12 at 2pm with visiting hours 10am to 1:45PM.

   Deborah  Anne  Crane – 62, of Danvers, formerly of Stoneham and North Reading, died Monday, February 9, 2015 at Beverly Hospital.

Born in Lawrence, MA on January 24, 1953, she was the daughter of the late Charles M. and Dorothy (Shepherd) Crane.  She was raised in North Reading and was a graduate of North Reading High School, Class of 1971.  She attended Katherine Gibbs School and was a graduate of the University of Phoenix.

Debbie worked at Tufts-New England Medical Center for 18 years as a Research Administrator, Level III at the Institution for Clinical Research and Health Policy Studies. 

Debbie was very loving to her family and friends. She would do anything for you. She was a very caring and intelligent woman, well versed in just about any subject. She had a great sense of humor. Debbie was a Class Act, she was a great pleasure to be with and she always put others first. She was a member of the North Reading High School, Class of 1971 Reunion Committee. She enjoyed painting, drawing, writing and sports.

She was the beloved companion of, William E. Lannon, III of  Danvers;  loving mother of, James F. Liebke, III and his companion Colleen Enos of Rowley;  sister of,  Michael Crane of CA, Gillian Bourdelas and her husband Robert of Green Bay, WI, and Maryann O’Leary and her husband John of North Reading;  Aunt of, Robert, Andrew and Heather Bourdelas, Christine and Justin O’Leary and Emmy Thompson; grandmother of Emily and Hannah Liebke. Also survived by several cousins, she was the sister- in-law of the Late Christine Liebke.

Memorial Service will be held at the Croswell Funeral Home, 19 Bow Street, North Reading on Thursday, March 12 at 2 PM. Calling hours will be held prior to the service from 10 AM to 1:45 PM. In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made in her memory to: Pan Mass Challenge, credit card payment, www.pmc.org/egifts/jl0349, check payment payable to: Jeff Lannon, c/o pmc, 1 Oak Tree Lane, Franklin, MA 02038.

                                 

 

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Anthony Branchini92, of North Reading, formerly of CT, died Sunday, February 8, 2015 at the Lahey Hospital and Medical Center in Burlington.

Born in New Haven, CT on June 24, 1922. He was the son of the late Frank and Augustine (Aguzzi) Branchini. Anthony proudly served in the U.S. Army in World War II. He was a Technician Fifth Grade and served from 1942 to 1945. He received two Purple Hearts, a Bronze Star and many other medals. He fought in the African Middle Eastern Theater of Operations.

He worked for Sears for forty years, he was a Division Manager in Men’s Clothing. He has been a resident of North Reading for the past 51 years and was a member of St. Theresa’s Church.

He was an avid jogger and bowler, he enjoyed spending time with his family and loved his country. Anthony loved being outdoors, horse racing, he was an avid Red Sox fan and enjoyed many sports.    

Family members include his loving wife of 68 years, Adelaide (Iannuzzi) Branchini; his daughters, Joyce Capaldo and her husband Bruce of Wakefield and Karen Ash and her husband Russell of Nashua, NH;  brothers, Caesar Branchini and his wife Anna of FL and Bruce Branchini and his wife Josephine of CT;  grandchildren, Christine , Michael and his wife Michelle, Brian and his wife Haley and Laura and her husband Derek; two great grandchildren, Alana and Austin.

His funeral will be held at the Croswell Funeral Home, 19 Bow Street, North Reading on Friday, February 13 at 10:30 AM, relatives and friends are kindly invited. There will be no calling hours. Burial will be in Riverside Cemetery in North Reading. In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made in his memory to: Wounded Warrior Project, 4899 Belfort Rd., Suite 300, Jacksonville, FL 32256. www.croswellfuneralhome.com

 

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Gerald  W.  LaVigne87, of North Reading and formerly of Melrose, passed away on Sunday, February 1, 2015, at Meadow View Care and Rehabilitation in North Reading. 

Born in Chazy, New York on May 31, 1927. He was the son of the late Lyman and Bertha A. (Duprey) LaVigne. He was a U.S. Army Veteran of World War II, he was Technician 5th Grade with the 142nd Armored Signal Company, he served from 1945 to 1946.

Gerald was a graduate of Harvard University.  He was a Design Engineer, he worked for Raytheon and Honeywell for thirty five years, until his retirement. He was a resident of North Reading for the past 15 years and a member of St. Theresa’s Church. He was a member of the North Reading Militia (Minutemen) and the Concord Minutemen.

He was a kind, gentle, beloved spouse, a genius, deep thinker and a devoted family man.

Family members include his beloved wife of 64 years, Laura M. (Meuse) LaVigne; his loving children, Marshall LaVigne and his wife Christine of Melrose, Mary Algiers of North Reading, Patricia Hagman of Woburn,  Diana Gupta and her husband Vikram of Freemont, CA,  Debra Hogan and her husband Andy of Whiting, VT and the late John LaVigne.; grandchildren, David and Jacqueline Algiers, Melissa DeCroteau and her husband Mike, Ben and Chris Hogan, James LaVigne, Anoushka and Rohan Gupta, David Hagman and the late Liz Hagman; great grandchildren, Owen and Lincoln DeCroteau.                          

His funeral will be held from the Croswell Funeral Home, 19 Bow Street, North Reading on Saturday, February 7 at 8:30 AM, followed by a 10:30 AM Funeral Mass at St. Theresa’s Church, 63 Winter Street (Rt. 62), North Reading. Calling hours will be held prior to the funeral from 8:30 to 10:00 AM.  Burial will be in Riverside Cemetery in North Reading. In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made in his memory to: Alzheimer’s Association, 480 Pleasant Street, Watertown, MA 02472.

 

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Joseph P. Gill – 71, of North Reading, formerly of Charlestown and Malden, died Sunday afternoon, February 1, 2015 at the Kaplan Family Hospice House in Danvers.
Born in Boston, MA on March 13, 1943, he was the son of the late Patrick and Bridget (Doherty) Gill. He was raised in Charlestown and attended St. Mary’s Elementary School and was a graduate of Cathedral High School. Joseph was U.S. Army Veteran of the Vietnam War and served from 1961 to 1963.
Most recently, he worked as a Starter at the Hillview Country Club in North Reading. He was a former co-owner for ComServ Telecommunications Services in Woburn and also worked for New England Telephone and AT&T.
He was a great father, caring and loving, helpful and generous, witty and a good friend to all.  Joe was an avid golfer and loved playing cards. He was courageous.
Family members include his loving daughter, Kellee Augusta and her husband Ryan of North Reading and his son, Scott Gardner and his wife Lori of Litchfield, IL; his former wife, Kathleen M. Gardner-Gill of Manchester, NH; brothers, Andrew Gill and his wife Marie of Stoneham, Francis Gill of West Roxbury and the late Johnny Gill; grandchildren, Charlotte and Zachary.
His Funeral will be held from the Croswell Funeral Home, 19 Bow Street, North Reading on Friday, February 6 at 9:15 AM, followed by a 10:30 AM Funeral Mass at St. Theresa’s Church, 63 Winter Street (Rt. 62), North Reading. Calling hours will be held on Thursday, February 5 from 4 to 8 PM. Burial will be in the Holy Cross Cemetery in Malden. Memorial donations may be made in his memory to: American Cancer Society, 30 Speen Street, Framingham, MA 01701 or to, Wounded Warrior Project, 150 Cambridge Park Drive, Suite 202, Cambridge, MA 02140.
www.croswellfuneralhome.com.

 

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**Services planned for today and tomorrow will take place as scheduled. **  No changes due to weather. **

Keith David Barr  -  32, of Peabody and formerly of North Reading, died unexpectedly at his home on Monday, Januray 26, 2015.

Born in Winchester, MA on September 24, 1982.  He was raised and attended North Reading Public Schools and was a graduate of North Reading High School, Class of 2001.

Keith was a graduate of Endicott College in Beverly, he received a Bachelors of Fine Arts in Graphic Design and a minor in photography. Keith worked in the Restaurant Business as a cook and a waiter. He has been a resident of Peabody for the past 4 years. He was a member of the Messiah Lutheran Church in Lynnfield.

He loved the Boston Bruins and the Boston Red Sox, snowboarding, going to the gym with his buddy Matt Johnson and competing at darts, mountain bicycle hiking, playing his drums  and deep sea fishing with his best friend Bobby Monk.

Family members include his loving parents, Gilman A. Barr, Jr. and his mother Gayle A. (Jarvis) Barr of Peabody and formerly of North Reading; his brother Corey Barr and his wife Nicole; his nephew and Godson, Charlie Barr and his niece, Stella Barr, all of Wakefield. He is also survived by many cousins.

His funeral will be held at the Messiah Lutheran Church, 708 Lowell Street,        Lynnfield on Tuesday, February 3 at 10 AM.  Calling hours will be held on Monday, February 2, from 2 to 8 PM at the Croswell Funeral Home, 19 Bow Street, North Reading. Burial will be in Cedar Grove Cemetery in Peabody. In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made in his memory to: Learn To Cope organization at NSMC Family Resource Center, 57 Highland Avenue, Salem, MA 01970 or www.learn2 cope.org  In loving memory of Keith D. Barr”. www.croswell funeralhome.com

 

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Please note Date and Time change for funeral.

Albert E. Sylvia, retired owner and publisher of the North Reading Transcript, died peacfully at the age of 91, on Friday January 23 at Woodbriar of Wilmington.

Born at home in Oak Bluffs on January 29, 1923 to Albert E. Sylvia, Sr. and Celia (Swartz) Sylvia, he graduated in 1940 from the Oak Bluffs School, High School Division.

He enlisted in the U.S. Army Air Corps in 1942 and was a veteran of World War II, serving for three years in the Western Pacific and Philippines  as a surgical technician assigned to the 830th Medical Evacuation Squadron. Mr. Sylvia declined the Army’s offer to further his education in medical school and was discharged as a staff sergeant in 1945.

Mr. Sylvia returned to Martha’s Vineyard where he met his future wife, Frances Finnerty, a “city girl” from Lowell who was a business education teacher at  the Oak Bluffs School. Despite taking Frances on their first date to shoot rats at the town dump, the couple stayed together and was married on Thanksgiving Day in 1948.

Mr. Sylvia continued his education at the former Wilson School in Boston where he completed the medical laboratory and x-ray technology course. He was employed as a bacteriologist by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts for 35 years. Mr. Sylvia  was first employed by the state as chief of the laboratory at the former North Reading State Sanatorium, a hospital for children with tuberculosis. For 26 years until his retirement in 1987 he was employed at the Lawrence Experiment Station where he focused on developing methods of drinking water testing and purification and the treatment of wastewater. Mr. Sylvia was honored by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts as State Scientist of the Year in 1975.

Mr. Sylvia was a long time resident of North Reading. After living with his family on the grounds of the state hospital, he built in his spare time the family home on Francis St. where he lived for over 50 years.

  Mr. Sylvia and his wife, Frances, were the parents of two young children when they decided the growing community of North Reading needed its own newspaper. While working his state job, they launched the North Reading Transcript in 1956, using a borrowed typewriter with a broken key, a second-hand composing machine, cardboard display type and a pot of rubber cement. The Transcript became the first sustained newspaper North Reading could call its own. A staunch advocate of the public’s right to know and a champion of the Open Meeting Law, Mr. Sylvia quickly earned a reputation as an editor and publisher of high ethical standards who demanded accountability from public officials and encouraged his readers to participate in the political process. He also began its sister publication, the Lynnfield Villager in 1973. Mr. Sylvia’s two children also followed their parents into the newspaper business. After retiring from the state, Mr. Sylvia worked at his newspaper seven days a week until finally hanging up his apron at the age of 85. Over the years he was a mentor to numerous journalism students who began their careers at the Transcript through Northeastern University’s work study program.

He was a member of many town committees and organizations and was named North Reading’s Citizen of the Year in 1997 and was an honorary Memorial Day Parade Marshal. Mr. Sylvia was extremely patriotic and for many years erected the American flags along “Constitution Way” on the town common for holidays such as Memorial Day, the Fourth of July and Veterans’ Day. Mr. Sylvia was one of the first members of North Reading’s Historic District Commission, a member of the Bicentennial Celebration Commission in 1976, served on the town bylaw revision committee and was an original member of North Reading’s first chapter of the Citizens Scholarship Foundation. Through the Transcript Mr. Sylvia promoted the Christian Community Service Christmas fund which raised thousands of dollars every year for North Reading’s needy families.

 He was very interested and well versed in the town’s history and often people were surprised to learn that he was not a native of North Reading.  Mr. Sylvia was also a member of several professional organizations, served as president of the Massachusetts Press Association and was the recipient of numerous awards from the New England and Massachusetts Press Associations. He was further honored by being named to the New England Press Association Newspaper Hall of Fame in 2006.

Mr. Sylvia was a devout Catholic and was a member of St. Theresa’s Parish. He was a very talented handyman and enjoyed puttering around his home and in his yard. In his younger days, he enjoyed golfing and was a member of the Thomson Country Club for many years. Mr. Sylvia and his wife traveled extensively and particularly enjoyed cruising. He also relished in the achievements of his grandchildren and took pleasure in attending their school and sporting events. He also had a talent for painting and singing and was always humming a tune. Mr. Sylvia was also an avid reader of American history books.

The husband of the late Frances R. (Finnerty) Sylvia who died in November 2013, he is survived by a son, Albert E. Sylvia and his wife, Christine of Lynnfield; a daughter, Kathleen M. Correale and her husband Sandy of Wolfeboro, NH;  three grandchildren, Danielle F. Sylvia, Sean P. O’Brien and Hilary P. O’Brien; a brother, Robert Sylvia and his wife Pearl of E. Falmouth and a sister, Eileen White and her husband George of Oak Bluffs.  He was also the father of the late David J. Sylvia, who died in infancy and was the brother of the late Dorothy Riley and Betty Rose.

His funeral will be held from the Croswell Funeral Home, 19 Bow Street, North Reading on Thursday,  January 29 at  10:15 AM, followed by a 11:30 AM Funeral Mass at St. Theresa’s Church, 63 Winter Street (Rt.62), North Reading. Calling hours will be held on Monday, January 26 from 4 to 8 PM. Burial will be in Riverside Cemetery in North Reading. In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made in his memory to: Alzheimer’s Association, 480 Pleasant Street, Watertown, MA 02472.

 

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Philip  S. Shapleigh – 75 , of North Reading and formerly of Malden, died Monday evening,  January 19, 2015 at Brigham & Women’s Hospital in Boston. 

Born in Melrose, MA on April 6, 1939.  He was the son of the late Philip B. and Marguerite (Lewis) Shapleigh.  He was raised in Malden and attended Malden Public Schools. He was a U.S. Marine Corps Veteran of the Korean Conflict, he served from 1956 to 1959.

Philip was a Plumber for Local No.12, for 55 years. He worked for Charles River Labs in Wilmington, Minuteman High School in Lexington and for the Boston Housing Authority.

He has been a resident of North Reading for the past 46 years. He was a Little League and Youth Soccer Coach. He was a set construction Advisor for the North Reading High School, he was a member of the Masquers Club for 20 years and was a member of the Melrose Hickory Hawks Ski Club for 50 years.

 Family members include his loving wife of 48 years, Jean (O’Neil) Shapleigh; his sons, Steven Shapleigh and his wife Lynne of Londonderry, NH  and  David Shapleigh and his wife Karen of Easthampton, MA; brothers, Paul Shapleigh of Brockton, Dana Shapleigh of Bridgewater, Donald Shapleigh of Falmouth and the late Kenneth Shapleigh;  his sister, Arlene Learned of NH;  grandchildren, Nicholas and Caitlin Shapleigh of Londonderry, NH and Alenna and Julia Shapleigh of Easthampton, MA.

His Funeral will be held at the Croswell Funeral Home, 19 Bow Street, North Reading on Saturday, January 24, at 10:30 AM. Calling hours will be held on Friday, January 23, from 4 to 7 PM.  In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made in his memory to: Magic Foundation, 6645 W. North Avenue, Oak Park, IL 60302.  www.croswellfuneralhome.com

 

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Armelia  A. “Millie” (Wills)  Cameron – 87, of North Reading and formerly Sedalia, Missouri, died January 14, 2015,  at the Lahey Hospital and Medical Center in Burlington.

Born in Sedalia, Missouri on January 16, 1927, she was the daughter of the late Robert and Mary (Chapman) Wills.  Millie was a graduate of Somerville High School. She was a resident of North Reading for 54 years. She was a member of the Union Congregational Church and an active member, a former Past Matron and a grand representative of the Mount Carmel Chapter, No. 230, Order of Eastern Star. 

Millie worked for Ryer’s Store in North Reading for 13 years and for the North Reading Public School Cafeteria.

She was a kind of lady who touched and enriched everyone she met. Hard working, kind, loving, funny, outgoing, witty and selfless. She attended the Sanborn Day Center in Reading, she enjoyed dancing, making crafts, socializing, country music (especially Reba McEntire, Eastern Star, playing the organ, friends- especially the special bond she and her granddaughter Erin shared (they were inseparable).

Family members include her beloved husband the late Colin E. Cameron; her loving son, John Cameron; cherished grandchildren, Colin and Erin Cameron, all of North Reading; nephews, Robert, Colin (Buddy) and William Cameron; nieces, Margaret (Peggy) Ansel, Susan Lemar and the late Linda Tripp. She was the sister of the late Juanita (Wills) Cameron, Gracie (Wills) Howell and William Wills. 

Her Memorial service will be held at the Croswell Funeral Home, 19 Bow Street, North Reading on Thursday, January 22 at 8:00 PM. Calling hours will be held prior to the service from 5 to 7:45 PM. In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made in her memory to: Sanborn Place Homecare & Day Service, 50 Bay State Road, Reading, MA 01867.

 

 

Juanita (Mason) Cafiso78, of North Reading and formerly of Otisfield, Maine, died on Sunday, January 11, 2015.

Juanita was born in Quincy, MA on November 12, 1936, grew up in Cambridge and married and raised her family in Arlington, MA, before enjoying a full and busy retirement with her husband of 56 years in their log home in Maine. More recently Juanita lived in North Reading Massachusetts with family.

She was the loving wife for 56 years to the late Lewis (Joe) Cafiso and had a dear sister, the late Bernice Ellis.  Juanita leaves many friends and family including her five children: Mark Cafiso and his wife Mary Ellen of Maine, Matthew Cafiso of CO, Rosemarie Bernard and her husband Tom of TN, Tammy Bernard and her husband Michael of MA, and Paul Cafiso and his wife Sonia of AZ.

 Juanita had nine grandchildren and two step-grandchildren: Jacqueline Nadeau and her husband Michael, Christina Cafiso, Giovanni Cafiso and his wife Miranda, Archer, and Sanovia Cafiso, Nicholas Bernard and his wife Kendra, Sam Bernard, Julia and Olivia Bernard, Brandon Therriault and his wife Sandra, and Alex Therriault, and three great granddaughters, Sophia, Asia and Peyton.

Juanita enjoyed many hobbies and was happiest around family and friends, working in her vegetable garden, cooking, knitting and sewing, including making four beautiful wedding gowns. Juanita worked primarily with children as a nanny and later as a school bus driver with the Lakes Region School District.  Her love of all children touched many young lives. She will be missed by all who enjoyed her hospitality and kind nature.

Family and friends are invited to attend a celebration of Juanita’s life on Saturday, January 17th at 11:00 AM. Calling hours will be held prior to the service from 10 to 11 AM, at Croswell’s Funeral Home, 19 Bow Street, North Reading, MA.  Memorial donations may be made in her memory to Alzheimer’s Association, 480 Pleasant Street, Watertown, MA 02472. http://www.croswellfuneralhome.com

­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­A memorial service in Maine will be planned at a later date.

 

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A. Rita (Gorman) McKendry – 98, of North Reading and formerly of Wakefield, died Sunday, January 11, 2015, at Wingate of Andover. She was the wife of the late William S. McKendry, Jr., who died in 1989.

Born in Charlestown, MA on July 16, 1916, she was the daughter of the late Samuel and Mary E. (Miller) Gorman. She was a graduate of Wakefield High School and attended the School of Interior Design in New York City, New York.

Before her marriage she was employed by the John James Design firm in Boston. She has been a resident of North Reading for the past 70 years and a member of St. Theresa’s Church.  She was a member of the North Reading Garden Club, North Reading Band Boosters, Past Master of the North Reading Grange, No. 239 and Past Master of the Pomona Grange.

Rita was an avid gardener, an excellent seamstress that made most of her children’s clothes growing up. She could knit and crochet anything, including numerous afghans. As a high school student she swam the length of Lake Quannapowitt  in Wakefield and was a Life Guard at Stage Fort Park in Gloucester. She played the Hawaiian guitar and the harmonica. Rita also loved to fish.

Family members include her Loving daughters, Ellen A. Zipeto and her husband John F. of Andover and Rhonda A. Waskiewicz  and her husband Peter of Bear Creek, PA; her son, James J. McKendry and his wife Deborah Stewart-McKendry of Renton, WA; 4 grandchildren, Matthew D. and Diana E. Zipeto, Jennifer Elliott and Peter Waskiewicz, Jr.

Her funeral will be held from the Croswell Funeral Home, 19 Bow Street, North Reading on Friday, January 16 at 9:15 AM, followed by a 10:30 AM Funeral Mass at St. Theresa’s Church, 63 Winter Street (Rt. 62), North Reading. Calling hours will be held on Thursday from 4 to 8 PM. Burial will be in Riverside Cemetery in North Reading. Memorial donations may be made in her memory to the charity of one’s choice.