ALTON NH – John C. Rodgers, 84, passed away peacefully during the early morning hours on Rattlesnake Island, Lake Winnipesaukee in Alton N.H. on June 25th, 2023.

Born on September 3rd, 1938, in Winchester, Massachusetts, he entered the world as the cherished son of Clarence Rodgers and Violet (Bartlett) Rodgers, and brother to Frank Rodgers. Throughout his entire life, he called North Reading, Massachusetts, his home, leaving an indelible mark on both the town and his family. Even as a young boy, he contributed to Eddy Wheelers Farm, skillfully operating the tractor. Later, he dedicated himself to serving in the National Guard. Upon his return, he embarked on a new chapter of his life, contemplating marriage with his beloved Dorothy Beherrell. Together, they embarked on the adventure of building their first home at what is now known as 39 North Street in North Reading. Dorothy acquired the land, while John and his father, with their lumber mill, felled trees and commenced the construction of their very first house.

Surviving John is his beloved wife and lifelong companion of 62 years, Dorothy (Beherrell) Rodgers. He is also survived by his children, John Crosby Rodgers Jr. and his wife Pamela Rodgers of Newburyport, MA, as well as Judy (Rodgers) Mixon and her husband, Tim Mixon of Hood River, OR. Additionally, John leaves behind four grandchildren: John Crosby Rodgers III, Elisabeth Sandra Mixon, Sarah Elizabeth Rodgers, and Thomas Crosby (TC) Mixon. Alongside them, he is fondly remembered by a wide circle of friends, cousins, nieces, and nephews, all of whom held a special place in his heart.

After his service in the National Guard, he transitioned to a fulfilling career at Brodie Industrial Trucks, where he excelled as a Master Mechanic, a title he proudly held until his retirement. Furthermore, he earned numerous veteran badges bestowed by the Grand Lodge of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers, reflecting his dedication and expertise in the field.

John’s life brimmed with cherished moments, dear friends, and a loving family. Whether in his hometown of North Reading, MA, or on RattleSnake Island of Lake Winnipesaukee, where he meticulously constructed a multigenerational summer cottage for his loved ones, John found joy and fulfillment. Snowmobiling, embarking on adventures with his family in their camper, and basking in the company of his loved ones were among his treasured pastimes. His days were enriched by the warmth of companionship and the beauty of shared experiences.

John exemplified the qualities of a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. His family continues to carry the invaluable life lessons he imparted upon them. Whether it was teaching them how to handle tools and construct homes or instilling a sense of preparedness for changing weather, John’s wisdom touched every aspect of their lives. He embodied the essence of a true family man, leaving behind cherished memories, captivating stories, and a remarkable example of being a supportive neighbor and role model for the community.

Please join us in commemorating the rich and beautiful life of John at a special celebration on Saturday, July 8th, 2023. The event will take place at 10:00 to 11:30 AM at the Croswell Funeral Home, located at 19 Bow St, North Reading, MA. Graveside services will follow at Riverside Cemetery in North Reading.

We warmly invite all those who knew and cherished John to join us in honoring his memory. Memorial donations may be made in his memory to the charity of one’s choice. If you would like to leave a message of condolence online, please visit www.Croswellfuneralhome.com.

E. Lorraine (Surette) Vatcher – 96, of Reading and formerly of Greenwood, passed away peacefully at the Sawtelle Family Hospice House in Reading on Saturday, June 24, 2023. She was the loving wife of the late James L. Vatcher.

Born in Stoneham, MA on June 10,1927, she was the daughter of the late Rene M. and Leonice Emma (Pothier) Surette. She was raised in Reading and was a graduate of Reading Memorial High School. Lorraine was a resident of Reading for 68 years and was a member St. Athanasius Parish.

Lorraine was a very kindhearted and loving lady. She had many special friendships and was always available to listen. She loved her family dearly, especially her grandchildren, but most recently she adored her 6 great grandchildren, who always kept her young at heart.

Lorraine enjoyed knitting and reading. She enjoyed knitting “prayer shawls” for St. Athanasius Parish.

Family members include her daughters, Pam McKenna and Karen DiTrapano; her sister, Anne McAvenia; 4 grandchildren, 6 great grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.

Her Funeral Mass will be Celebrated at St. Theresa’s Church, 63 Winter Street, North Reading on Saturday, July 1 at 11:00 AM. Calling hours will be held prior to the Funeral Mass from 9:00 to 10:15 AM at the Croswell Funeral Home, 19 Bow Street, North Reading. Interment will be in Puritan Lawn Memorial Park Cemetery in Peabody. Memorial donations may be made in her memory to the American Cancer Society, cancer.org

Veronica (Twomey) Lee – 95, of North Reading and formerly of Centerville, passed  away peacefully at her home on Saturday, June 24, 2023, with her family by her side. She was the loving wife of the late Patrick Lee.

Born in County Kerry, Ireland on October 14,1927. She was the daughter of the late Patrick and Kathleen (O’Sullivan) Twomey.  Veronica was a retired owner of the Horseshoe Grille in North Reading for many years. She was a member of St. Theresa’s Church in North Reading, the Guild at Our Lady of Victory Church in Centerville and the North Reading Athletic Boosters. She has been a resident of North Reading for over 30 years and a former resident of Centerville for 32 years.

Veronica enjoyed her family, knitting, Phase 10, “The Holy Hour”, the final day of the PGA Golf Tournaments and the Jimmy Fund. She was selfless and would always think of others before herself. She was giving, generous and had a strong work ethic. Veronica was loving, had a deep faith, she was proud of her Irish Heritage and was very community orientated.

Family members include her loving sons, Patrick and his wife Kathi, Kevin and his fiancé Nanette and Brian and his wife Wendy; her daughter, Kathleen; ten grandchildren and 9 great grandchildren.

Her Funeral will be held from the Croswell Funeral Home, 19 Bow Street, North Reading on Thursday, June 29 at 9:15 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 Wednesday, June 28 from 4:00 to 8:00 PM. Interment will be in Riverside Cemetery in North Reading. In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made in her memory to Mill Hill Fathers, 222 W. Hartsdale Ave., Hartsdale, NY 10530 or to St. Theresa’s Church. 63 Winter Street, North Reading, MA 01864. www.croswellfuneral home.com

Margaret L. Lang – 76, of North Reading, formerly of Quincy and Newton, passed away on Tuesday, June 13, 2023 at the Royal Meadow View Center in North Reading. Born in Newton on March 21, 1947 she was the daughter of the late John J. and Catherine (Schultz) Lang. Family members include her brother Robert C. Lang, last known of Lynn, her sister the late Barbara Lang and her brother the late John J. Lang.  Arrangements are under the direction of the Croswell Funeral Home, 19 Bow Street, North Reading. www.croswellfuneralhome.com

Caroline B. (Foster) Smith – 96, of Wakefield and formerly of North Reading, passed away at her home on Tuesday, June 6, 2023. She was the beloved wife of the late Carroll O. Smith.

Born in Winchester, MA on September 28, 1926, she was the daughter of the late Harold P. and Frances M. (Merriam) Foster. A former resident of North Reading for over 85 years, she attended North Reading Schools and was a graduate of Reading High School, Class of 1943. She later earned a Certificate as a Professional Librarian from the Massachusetts Board of Public Library Commissioners in 1966.

Caroline started her career as a bookkeeper at State Street Bank in Boston. After marrying and having children, she began working part time for the North Reading Public Library. In 1973 she took a full time job with the Eastern MA Regional Library System full time and spent 18 enjoyable years traveling to small town libraries on the North Shore as a bookmobile librarian.

Caroline and her husband loved to travel and after retirement traveled all over the globe meeting new friends on those trips. They were avid gardeners featured in garden club tours. She was always willing to lend a hand to anyone needing help. For many years with their neighbors, they grew and sold plants to raise money to buy gifts for needy children in the Boston area.

Caroline was the longest active member of the Union Congregational Church in North Reading for 83 years and a member of its Faith Circle. She found friendship and faith from her participation in  its church services and activities. Kind and generous is how Caroline was described by all who knew her. She loved the challenge of playing all types of games from cribbage to bridge.  Always beautifully dressed, she enjoyed attending live theatre and dinners out with friends and family. She adored her family and provided encouragement and support in all their undertaking.

She is survived by her son, Alan Smith and his wife Barbara of Reading and her daughter, Brenda Smith of Belfast, Maine; brothers, Thomas Foster of Littleton, CO and Frank Foster of Dover, DE; two grandchildren, Alyssa Labrecque and Meryl Sullivan and 5 great grandchildren.

Her memorial service will be held on Tuesday, June 20 at 10:00 AM at the Union Congregational Church, 148 Haverhill Street in North Reading. Visitation will be held on Monday, June 19 from 3:00 to 6:00 PM at the Croswell Funeral Home, 19 Bow Street in North Reading. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in her memory to: The Friends of North Reading Parks/Ipswich River Park, 235 North St. N.Reading 01864 or to the charity of one’s choice.       www.croswellfuneralhome.com