Rosemary Petersante, 96, of Southborough MA passed away Monday, May 13th after a brief period of declining health. She was the wife of the late Nicholas Petersante who died in 2004. Born in Framingham, Rosemary was the daughter of the late Francis and Epifania (Piscitello) Gialombardi. Predeceased by her sisters, Antonina (Jimmy) Moriarty, Angie (Peter) Cacciola, Helen (George) Ciceroni, and brother Franky Gialombardi.

As a young woman, she worked for Cushing Hospital in Framingham, where she met her husband, and would later work as an Avon lady in the Framingham area for 13 years. Rosemary was an accomplished watercolor artist and loved playing the piano. Happy and outgoing, she made friends wherever she went. 

She is survived by three children; Michael Petersante of W. Roxbury; David Petersante and his partner David Moccia of Billerica, Carol Kulkin and her husband Matthew of Florida (formerly Ashland); three grandchildren; Justin and Mariah Kulkin, Danyelle DeLucia, 2 great grandchildren Seryn and Silas DeLucia; sister-in-law, Evelyn Gialombardi, cousin, Stella Simione, and her best friend Nora“sis” and Jerry Goolkasian and many loving nieces and nephews.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Saturday May 18th at 11:00am in St. Tarcisius Parish, 563 Waverly St. Framingham, MA with burial to follow in Wildwood Cemetery in Ashland. Calling hours will be held Saturday from 8:30-10:30am at the Matarese Funeral Home, 325 Main St. Ashland MA.

(Obituary and photo via Matarese Funeral Home)

When Kate Matison passed away in February, the Historical Commission promised to hold a reception in honor of their late member. Next week, they will do just that.

The commission and the Historical Society have issued an evite for a reception on Thursday, June 6th at 7:00 pm:

The Southborough Historical Commission and the Southborough Historical Society invite you to a reception in memory of Kate Matison.

Please join friends and family as we celebrate Kate’s life and honor her contributions to our community.

The commission already detailed some of those contributions in their February announcement:

Kate brought her boundless energy and commitment to the Southborough Historical Commission in 2007. It is impossible to overstate her impact on the Commission and the Town of Southborough. In 2012, she became the Vice Chair, and she held that position until she was recently voted Chair.

Some of Kate’s accomplishments include South Union School’s addition to the National Historic Register, updating the Historical Properties Survey, the Preservation Restriction for 84 Main Street with the Massachusetts Historical Commission, the application for Southborough’s National Register Historic District, the recent preservation of the Old Burial Ground, advocacy for Fayville Hall and Peter’s Annex preservation, and documenting numerous buildings since demolished or renovated.

Since 2015, Kate served as the CPC representative for the Historical Commission, Members of both groups relied upon her expertise and greatly appreciated her contributions.

It is rare to find an individual who is willing to work so tirelessly for the growing good of a community for so many years. Future residents of Southborough will benefit from her talents and expertise as they are able to appreciate the historical character she strived to preserve. It is our hope that she will be remembered as fondly as we remember Kate Matison: dedicated, tireless, witty, wise, and above all, a dear friend.

The gathering will fittingly take place in the Southborough Historical Museum at 25 Common Street.

You can find the commission’s evite here. If you have any questions, please contact host Rebecca Deans-Rowe at 508-831-8613.

Paul J. Weber, 58, of Southborough, passed away suddenly when stricken ill at his home on Saturday, June 1, 2019.

He was the beloved husband of Catherine M. (Kundrath) Weber for the past 31 years. Born in Brooklyn, NY, he was the son of Florence (Neesham) Weber of Clinton, CT and the late Francis Paul Weber. Paul was a 1978 graduate of The Morgan School in Clinton, CT and earned a bachelor’s degree from Boston College in 1982. He was a software developer for Harvard Bioscience of Holliston.

Paul was a great friend to many and surrounded himself with good friends, music and food. He was an amazing musician, and was asked to bring his guitar where ever he visited. Paul loved the outdoors, especially kayaking and hiking in National Parks throughout the United States. One of the highlights of his life was hiking in Alaska with his son Benjamin. He will be sorely missed.

In addition to his wife and mother, he is survived by his son, Benjamin Weber of Southborough and his sister, Nancy Guindon of Clinton, CT. He leave his nephews and nieces Garrett, Douglas, Ian, Jessica, Grady, Sands, Brianna, and Nathan as well his brother-in-laws Mike, Joe, Bob, and Bill, and sister-in-laws Therese, Mary, Maureen, Patti and Ericka. 

Along with his dad, Paul was also predeceased by his sister, Susan Weber.

Visiting hours will be held on Thursday, June 6, from 4 to 7 pm at the Morris Funeral Home, 40 Main Street, Southborough.

A funeral service will be held on Friday, at 11 am at the Pilgrim Church, 17 Common Street, Southborough. He will also have a Mass of Christian burial on Saturday, June 15, at 12 noon, at St. Mary’s Church of the Visitation in Clinton CT. A burial will follow in the St. Mary’s Cemetery..

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Ben Weber Scholarship and Family Fund on GoFundMe.

To leave words of condolence to the family, please visit www.morrisSouthboroughfuneral.com

(Obituary via Morris Funeral Home)

Maowu Huang, of Southborough, 80, beloved husband of Zhongjie Zhu, passed away surrounded by his family on June 12th at UMass Memorial Medical Center – University Campus Hospital after a sudden illness.

Mr. Huang was a retired professor of Southern China Agricultural University and resided in Southborough, Massachusetts with his daughter Ying Huang. He had long journey on sport, education, and health cultivation. He had a successful carrier as the Dean of Sport Dept at SCAU and became well-known scholar in the cross-field of sport and health. He was a dedicated family man and active figure in the local Chinese community.

Mr. Huang is survived by his son Ming Huang and his wife, Ping Zeng, his daughter, Ying Huang and her husband, Daniel Xu, grandfather of Alice Huang and Alisha Xu. Brother of Maoe Huang and Maoshen Huang.

Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend a visiting hour on Tuesday, June 18th at the Chiampa Funeral Home ~ The Sumner House, 5 Church Road, Shrewsbury Center from 10:00 to 11:00am, followed by a Funeral Service at 11:00am in the funeral home.

(Obituary and photo via Chiampa Funeral Home)

Lan Chan Lai, 89, passed away on June 10, 2019 at UMass Medical Center.

Mrs. Lai was the beloved wife of the late David Wai Chung Lai who passed away in 2012. She was born in Shuntak, Kwangton, China on July 23, 1929.

She leaves behind her daughters, Julie Szeto and her husband, Alexander Szeto of Southborough; Cheryl Tsang and her husband Johnny Kwok Wing Tsang of Vancouver, British Columbia; six grandchildren; five great grandchildren.

A funeral service will be held at 9:00am on Saturday, June 22nd at the Callahan, Fay & Caswell Funeral Home, 61 Myrtle St., Worcester.

(Obituary and photo via Callahan, Fay & Caswell Funeral Home)

Jacqueline L. “Jackie” (Boisvert) Beck, of Southborough, went to God on June 12, 2019 after a long illness.

She was the daughter of the late Raymond and Eleanore (Langlois) Boisvert and the wife of the late G. Edward Beck, who died in 2012. Jacqueline is survived by four children, Paul and his wife Cheryl, Allison, Glenn and his fiancée Natercia, and Jana and her partner Michael.

She is also survived by her grandchildren and great -grandchildren as well as her brother, Robert Boisvert and his wife Joan.

A graduate of St. Joseph Hospital School of Nursing, Lowell, MA. Jacqueline was employed for many years as a registered nurse. She retired in 2000 from her position at Elizabeth Seton Residence in Wellesley, MA. She devoted her life and long career to caring for others.

Services will be private and are under the direction of the Slattery Funeral Home, Inc., 40 Pleasant St., Marlborough, MA.

Donations may be made to COPD or MetroWest Hospice.

(Obituary and photo via Slatterly Funeral Home)

Edward William Barnes, 93, passed away peacefully Monday June 24, 2019 at home. Edward was born on Feb. 2, 1926 in Watertown, the youngest son of Francis and Sarah (King) Barnes. He was brother to Paul, Joseph, Francis, Elizabeth, Emily and Marie. He was predeceased by his loving wife of 67 years, Barbara Jeanne (Slamin) and is survived by his children: sons: Ted Barnes, Tom Barnes and his wife Cyndi; daughters: Kathie Ablondi and her husband John, Jeanne Ahern and her husband Brian; six grandchildren: Kristen Ablondi Papson and John Ablondi, Tom, Matthew, Robbie and Avery Barnes and three great grandchildren: Luke and Ryder Papson and Ryan Ablondi.

Ed taught Social Studies for 25 years in the Watertown Public Schools until he retired in 1988. After many years living in Framingham he and Barbara moved to Marshfield where he was able to enjoy his vegetable gardens and continue his passion for teaching by serving as a permanent substitute in the Hanover Public Schools. To be closer to his children and grandchildren, he and Barbara left Marshfield in 1999 and moved to Southborough where they created great and lasting memories for the past 20 years. Ed was a proud veteran of the US Navy during World War II serving in the Pacific Theatre. 

Visiting hours are Thursday June 27 from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Boyle Bros. Funeral Home, 173 Union Ave., Framingham. A funeral Mass will be celebrated Friday June 28 at 10:00 a.m. at St. Matthew’s Church, 26 Highland St., Southborough. Burial with military honors in Calvary Cemetery will be private. The family suggests in lieu of flowers, that memorial donations be made in his name to: St. Matthew’s Parish, 105 Southville Rd., Southborough, MA. 01772 or to: Bright Focus (Macular Degeneration) 22512 Gateway Center Drive, Clarksburg, MD 20871. For further information, please visit www.boylebrothers.com.

(Obituary and photo via Boyle Bros. Funeral Home)

On Sunday, Southborough’s Ryan Nicholson died as a result of crashing his motorcycle in Northborough.

Wicked Local covered the story on Monday. It explained that an unidentified 20 year old Southborough man died after being transported to UMass Memorial Worcester. Last night, Nicholson’s name was released.

According to the article, the crash is under investigation, but Northborough officers indicated that they believe speed was involved. You can read those details here.

Nicholson was a 2017 graduate of Algonquin, and a student at Framingham University. He is listed as having lived with his family on East Main Street. Look for his obituary to quickly follow this post.

Ryan P. Nicholson, 20, of Southborough passed away unexpectedly in a motor vehicle accident on Sunday, June 23, 2019, in Northborough.

He was the adored son of Paul and Maria (Trombetta) Nicholson of Southborough.

Ryan attended school in Southborough and was a 2017 graduate of Algonquin Regional High School of Northborough and a 2018 graduate of Bridgton Academy of Bridgton, ME. He was presently attending Framingham State University. Ryan was affectionately known by his family and friends as “Nikel” and “Nikelback.” Ryan was also adventurous, determined, and had a good sense of humor. He was an avid hockey and lacrosse player; enjoyed riding his motorcycle, hiking and climbing in the NH mountains. He was the first recipient of the Specialist Brian Arsenault K. Memorial Fund Academic Award. To know him was to love him.

In addition to his parents, he is survived by his sister Erin Nicholson of Southborough; his paternal grandparents, Jean and Jack Nicholson of Auburn; Theresa and Joseph Trombetta of Dennis; several aunts, uncles and many cousins.

A Mass of resurrection will be held on Sunday, June 30, at 1 PM at St. Matthew Church, 26 Highland Street, Southborough. Burial will be private.

Contributions may be sent in Ryan’s memory to the Ryan P. Nicholson Memorial Fund proceeds will go to Starhawks Youth Hockey Association, Hudson MA, c/o Main Street Bank, 6 E Main Street, Southborough, MA 01772.

To leave words of condolence to the family, please visit www.morrisSouthboroughfuneral.com

(Obituary and photo via Morris Funeral Home)

Marianne J.(Ruocco) Geary, 96, of Southborough, passed away peacefully on Saturday, June 29, 2019 surrounded by her family, at her home.

She was the beloved wife of Warren J. Geary who died in 1983.

Born in Somerville, she was the daughter of the late Lillian (Russo) and Louis Ruocco.

Marianne was a 1940 graduate of Lexington High School., and earned her BA in English Literature in 1944 at Emmanuel College in Boston. She received her Master’s Degree in Special Education from Assumption College in 1976.

From an early age, through her participation in Girl Scouts and 4-H Club, Marianne’s dedication to public service was evident. She and her husband, Warren J. Geary, moved to Southborough in 1950. From the very beginning, Marianne immersed herself into the community in many activities and volunteer efforts including the School Committee, Our Father’s Table, and Friends of the Retarded (FOR). 

As a professional, Marianne changed the lives of many as a devoted educator. In addition to over 40 years as an educator in the public schools, she dedicated the last 16 years of her career to the boys at the Fenn School in Concord. Her mission as an educator was simple: never give up, no matter how daunting the task may be.

Marianne is survived by her 7 children, her 7 grandchildren, and her 4 great grandchildren.

A graveside funeral service will be held at the Southborough Rural Cemetery in Southborough on Monday, July 8. At 10:30 am

Memorial contributions may be made in her memory to the American Diabetes Association American Diabetes Association, 2451 Crystal Dr. # 900 Arlington, VA 22202. Diabetes.org

Arrangements are under the care of Morris Funeral Home, 40 Main St. Southborough.

To leave words of condolence to the family, please visit www.morrisSouthboroughfuneral.com

(Obituary and photo via Morris Funeral Home)

Elda (Bertuzzi) Key died in her home at the age of 85.

Following the death of her husband, Robert J. Key in 1998, Elda relocated to Southborough Meadows, where she delighted in the quiet neighborhood. Elda leaves one daughter, Elizabeth Garfield, her treasured son in-law, Wayne Garfield, her devoted sister Mary Barnum and her beloved Thomas Strain. Extended family consists of dearly loved nieces and nephews. Elda was predeceased by 2 sisters, Yolanda Bevan and Ann Daily, and 2 brothers Eugene and Charles Bertuzzi.

Elda grew up in Framingham, the youngest daughter of Eugene and Rose (Gabiatti) Bertuzzi. A graduate of Framingham High School, Elda worked for U.S. Army Natick Labs. Having been an avid golfer, in her retirement Elda continued to enjoy an active lifestyle with friends and neighbors. She is dearly missed.

At her request there will be no services. A memorial mass will be scheduled at St. Anne Parish in Southborough at a future date.

Elda’s daughter and son in-law would like to thank friends and family for their outpouring of love and support at a difficult time.

(Obituary via Legacy.com and Metrowest Daily News)

Annette M. Labarre, 82, a lifelong resident of Southborough, passed away at her home after suddenly being stricken ill on Tuesday, July 30, 2019.

Born in Marlborough, she was the youngest daughter of late George and Anna (Lacombe) Labarre.

Annette was a 1955 graduate of the former Peter’s High School in Southborough and earned an associate’s degree at Fisher College in Boston. She worked as an administrator for several area companies over the years, including Raytheon, and ending her career at Marlborough Hospital.

Annette liked to travel and was an active member of the Southborough Senior Center with whom she attended local concerts and museums.She spent her summer seasons in the Newport, RI area where she attended many piano and band concerts, and volunteered for the Newport Music Festival.

Annette is survived by her sister, Joan Gardner of Salt Lake City, Utah; several nieces and nephews, Arnold Gardner Jr, Steve Gardner, Gregory Gardner and Brent Gardner; Linda (Labarre) Wathen, Lisa Labarre, and Steven Labarre; Richard Labarre Jr and John Labarre. She also leaves many grand nieces and nephews across the country, as well as close friends and a sisters in law from the Southborough area. 

In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her brothers, Richard (Dick) Labarre, and George Labarre Jr.

Funeral services will be held at a later date and at the convenience of the family.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be sent in her memory to the Southborough Senior Center. 9 Cordaville Road, Southborough, MA 01772

Arrangements are under the care of the Morris Funeral Home, 40 Main Street, Southborough, MA. To leave words of condolence to the family, please visit www.MorrisSouthboroughFuneral.com

(Obituary via Morris Funeral Home)

Mary “Elise” (Larkin) Zarrilli, 89, of Southborough, died peacefully at St Patrick’s Manor on Friday, August 16, 2019 in Framingham. Elise was born in Ansonia, Connecticut to Joseph Clement and Mary ( Conlon) Larkin.

Elise, the oldest of five children, grew up in her beloved city of Ansonia, moving several times as the family grew and eventually prospered. She went through the Ansonia Public School system and later through Saint Mary’s High School in New Haven from which she graduated in 1948. After high school she was admitted to the RN program at Greenwich Hospital, where she excelled as a student and went on to become a successful OR nurse. Equally important, she developed friendships with classmates, some cherished, one lasting for her entire life.

Elise married Vincent Zarrilli in 1954 and moved to Massachusetts , where she had five children between 1956 and 1964. The family settled in Sudbury. Despite the strong life challenges during the seventies, she demonstrated the toughness and determination her family and friends so admired. Inspired by the real estate career of her father, she obtained her brokers license, and success selling houses in the Sudbury area soon followed. She concurrently worked nights at the Framingham Detox Center as a nurse.

The single greatest tragedy of Elise’s life was the death of her youngest child, Paul, at age 32 of heart failure after chemotherapy. Her strength was tested as never before with his death. Though she persevered and demonstrated happiness in the decades that followed, she deeply missed Paul and spoke of him often for the rest of her life.

Elise loved spending time on Cape Cod with her family. She loved to sing patriotic songs with her grandchildren and attended every Irish and American parade she could find. 

Elise is survived by four of her children: Gerry Zarrilli and his wife Wendy; Joe Zarrilli and his wife Lori; John Zarrilli and his wife Jeanne; Mary Connaughton and her husband Rick; her daughter-in-law, Dianna Zarrilli; her grandchildren, Amelia Zarrilli, Katie and Kristi Zarrilli, Paul Jr and Stanley Zarrilli, Emily and Michael Zarrilli, as well as Phillip, Paul, and Ben Connaughton; her two great-grandchildren, Canio and Audrey Mosby; her surviving siblings, John Larkin, William Larkin, and Judy Larkin. All are beloved.

Visiting hours will be held on Tuesday, August 20, from 9 to 10 am at Morris Funeral Home , 40 Main Street,Southborough, followed by a 10:30 am funeral Mass at St Anne Church, 20 Boston Road, Southborough. Burial will follow in the Southborough Rural Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be sent in Elise’s memory to Music Mends Minds c/o Ansonia Rotary club. PO box 575, Ansonia, Ct. 06401 and/or St Patrick’s Manor, 863 Central St., Framingham, Mass. 01701.

To leave words of condolence to the family, please visit www.morrisSouthboroughfuneral.com.

(Obituary via Morris Funeral Home)

Jory Damon McKinley, 57, passed away on Friday August 9, 2019, after being stricken ill at his home in Southborough, Massachusetts. He was the beloved husband of Alicia M. (Hernandez) Mckinley for the past 29 years.

Born in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, he was the son of the late William Thomas McKinley and Marlene Marie (Mildner) McKinley of Reading, MA.

Jory lived in Pittsburgh, New Haven CT, Albany NY and Chicago IL before settling in Massachusetts. He graduated from Reading Memorial High School and subsequently received his BS and MS in Electrical Engineering from the University of South Florida in 1990. During high school and college, Jory excelled at baseball as a catcher and helped lead his high school team to the Middlesex League championship in 1980. Jory was an accomplished engineer; he started his own firm and consulted for a number of prominent companies. At his core, Jory was a loving, generous, and silly soul. He loved nothing more than to spend time with his family on “coffee cruises” and at the beach, to run nightly, and to watch Boston sports teams. 

He was an extremely devoted and loving father to his four children: Dorie, Sydney, Malcolm and Jordan. He is also survived by his four brothers, Joseph Thomas, Derrick Scott, Gregory Sean and Elliott Miles McKinley.

A private memorial service will be held on at the convenience of the family.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Massachusetts Down Syndrome Congress, 20 Burlington Mall road, #261, Burlington, MA 01803. www.mdsc.org.

Arrangements are under the direction of the Morris Funeral Home, 40 Main Street, Southborough.

To leave words of condolence to the family, please visit www.morrisSouthboroughfuneral.com.

(Obituary via Morris Funeral Home)

James (Jim) B. Haugen, 60, passed away on Tuesday, August 20, 2019 after a brief but courageous battle against cancer. He was the beloved husband of Joan (Tak) Haugen for the past 26 years.

Born and raised in Minneapolis, Minnesota, he was the son of the late Belva Jean (Lastine) Haugen and Roger Haugen. He graduated from Bloomington Lincoln High School and earned a bachelor’s degree from the University of St. Thomas in St. Paul, MN. Jim was an avid hockey player and a four-time qualified runner of the Boston Marathon. He was also a dedicated coach of several of his children’s sports teams — particularly, Triboro Youth Hockey. Jim deeply valued his Kronos colleagues and friends, the “Kronites”.

Jim was a gentle, kind, and humble soul, widely known by all who knew him as “the nicest guy ever”. He always reminded his friends and family members to “savor” every moment. Jim loved nothing more than to spend time with family and his dogs; to watch Boston and Minnesota sports teams; and to skate at the rink with his Old Time Hockey team each week.

He was the very loving and devoted father of his three children: Sophie, Tom, and Nick. He is also survived by his brother, Dale Haugen of MN; sister-in-law, Eunice Bae and her husband Paul; their children, Joshua and Andrew Bae of CA; father-in-law, Wayne Tak of CA; many aunts, uncles, cousins; and several lifetime friends. 

The family will receive friends for visiting hours from 4:30 pm to 7:30 pm on Thursday, August 22 at Morris Funeral Home, 40 Main Street, Southborough.

A memorial service will be held at 11:00 am on Friday, August 23 at Pilgrim Congregational Church, 15 Common Street, Southborough.

In lieu of flowers, the family has asked that contributions be made to the Jim Haugen Memorial Hockey Scholarship c/o Joan Haugen, P.O. Box 512 Southborough, MA 01772

To leave words of condolence to the family, please visit www.morrisSouthboroughhome.com

(Obituary and photo via Morris Funeral Home)

(click to enlarge)

Napoleon ‘Pete’ DePina, 88, of Southborough, died peacefully on Friday, August 16, 2019, at Rose Monahan Hospice Home in Worcester, with family members by his side, as the result of a stroke. He was the beloved husband of Elisabeth ‘Betty’ (Dannenman) DePina who passed away in 2012.

Born in New Bedford and raised in Falmouth, he was the son of the late Edward J. and Mary (Gonsalves) DePina. After graduating from high school, he followed in his father’s footsteps and joined the US Army which took him to Germany for 6 years. While in Germany he met and married his wife Betty and had their first child, Richard there. Betty nicknamed him “Pete” which stuck with him for the rest of his life. Pete spent some time in Korea and after being re-assigned back stateside, Betty gave birth to daughter, Susan.

Pete loved the military where he personally experienced the transitional times – before, during, and after integration of the Army. After 10 years of military service in the field artillery, achieving the rank of Master Sergeant as a tank commander, he reluctantly did not re-enlist because housing was not available or “friendly”. He felt it was more important for his family to be together.

The family resided in the Boston area for 5 years before moving to Southborough in 1962. He drove an auto transport truck for the former Anchor Motor Freight in Framingham and became involved in the community focusing on what he could do to help the children. 

To highlight his many contributions, he became a member of the Parks and Recreation Commission, eventually becoming Chairman. He got involved in Little League, was a Boy Scout and Eagle Scoutmaster (camping in the winter was no problem for Pete), was a sparkplug in planning and organizing just about anything he felt could benefit others….a hockey program for the boys, a figure skating program for the girls, a swimming program for both and it started in his own backyard pool. In addition he was instrumental in establishing ball fields in town, working with the Southborough Police Department to expand on and instill a positive relationship and respect between the police and the kids while they were young. He was a recipient of Southborough’s Man of The Year Award.

Pete organized The Central Massachusetts Athletic Association (now defunct), a youth football program, which grew to 90 teams and cheerleaders, involving 26 communities and ultimately uniting black and white communities through the vehicle of safe and fair play, positive attitudes, and lots of fun. He served as Chairman for 25 years.

Pete retired from Anchor Motor Freight and went to work for Tri-State Truck Sales and Service in Shrewsbury, where he has worked for 25 years until his abrupt passing.

He had an amazing knowledge and deep love for American military history with a focus on the period immediately following the Civil War (1866) through the completion of the integration of all US branches of the military. In 2001 he gathered a few long-time friends and associates to form Buffalo Soldiers Heritage, an educational inter-racial organization, for the purpose of increasing public awareness of this part of history to children and adults alike, and to provide a more complete version of American History – one which included the significant and important contributions and sacrifices made by African Americans and other minorities in the military, and previously not included in our history books. The group did this through lectures, exhibits, participating in parades, and simple conversation.

Pete was a man of his word and trust was extremely important to him. He was kind, generous, very humble, private, honest (sometimes brutally), a motivator with a smile or a handshake, a person with great wisdom and instincts, a stickler for being on time, hardworking, seemingly tireless, goal oriented, a task master, an observer and listener who often worked behind the scenes, quietly and privately “planting seeds” for thought or action he thought should be taken by someone else—always for another’s benefit or the good of the company/project. He was selfless. He preferred face-to-face communication. He was “technologically challenged” but always tried to overcome it….sometimes.

Pete loved working outdoors, especially on his lawn. He used to plant trees to watch them grow. He loved the color of flowers, but hated having to mow around them and the additional time and attention to caring for them.

He was terribly frustrated over things he could no longer do for himself. He was always appreciative and often moved to tears by the acts of friends who did something for him voluntarily or when he “succumbed” to asking for help.

He leaves behind his daughter, Susan Counterman, of PA. 7 grandchildren, Lauren and Colleen DePina of Worcester; Kimberly Counterman Jones and William Counterman Jones of FL; SFC Paul Counterman Grenauer of Fort Bragg, NC; Christine and Charity Counterman of PA; and daughter-in-law in his heart, April Duval, of Oxford; and 7 great grandchildren.

In addition to his wife he is predeceased by his son, Richard DePina who died in March.

There will be a graveside ceremony at 11:00 am on Thursday, September 5, at Southborough Rural Cemetery, Cordaville Road, Southborough.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating in Pete’s memory to Veterans Inc. 69 Grove St. Worcester, MA. 01605; http://www.veteransinc.org/ Or The Friends of the Southborough Public Library, 25 Main St., Southborough, MA 01772.

Arrangements are under the care of the Morris Funeral Home, 40 Main Street, Southborough. To leave words of condolence to the family, please visit, www.morrisSouthboroughfuneral.com

(Obituary and photo via Morris Funeral Home)

[Editor’s Note: Pete Depina made a lot of headlines over the years for his dedication to preserving and sharing the history of the Buffalo Soldiers. One example is this story that Susan ran on this blog back in 2009.]

John Arnold Mylotte, age 77, from Southborough, MA died on September 22, 2019 after many years of poor health.

John was born August 26, 1942 in Philadelphia. He graduated from Villanova University, received his Masters degree from Lehigh University, a law degree from Suffolk University and a certificate in technical writing at MIT. He was Director of Technical Publications and Public Affairs for the Navy Clothing and Textile Research Facility in Natick, MA, and taught technical writing at Northeastern University. John received numerous awards for his proficiency in technical writing.

In recent years John focused on writing and presenting his humorous poetry. He loved Sherlock Holmes and wrote clever short stories based on the Sherlock character. In 1998, he won the Sherlock Holmes Award for Best Mystery Story of the Year. John enjoyed his travels to England, France, China, Turkey, Italy, Spain, Canada and many areas of the United States. But, he always made his annual trip to Boothbay Harbor, Maine for several days of boat trips and lobster. He also enjoyed attending theater, concerts, museums and watching college basketball, the Red Sox and the Patriots. He had the amazing ability to name the tune and the performer after hearing just the first two bars of music from the 40s to the 80s. 

He is survived by his beloved Eva Benda with whom he shared his life since 1997, her two granddaughters Natasha and Elyssa and their mother Lucy, and Evas sister and brother-in-law Laurette and Bill Shrage. He was predeceased by his parents, Thomas Joseph and Pauline Ellen, his sister Pauline and her husband Paul, his brother Thomas, his closest friend Frank, and his faithful companion for 17 years, his bichon Puff.

Following cremation, a Celebration of Life will be held at First Parish Unitarian Universalist, 26 Vernon St., Framingham on Saturday October 12 at 1:00.

In lieu of flowers, gifts in Johns memory may be made to First Parish in Framingham or to a charity of your choice.

(Obituary via Legacy.com and Metrowest Daily News)

Kurt E. Edgren, 76, of Southborough and formerly of Worcester, passed away on Friday, October 4, 2019 after a short illness.

Born in Worcester he was the son of the late Oscar and Janet (Carlson) Edgren.

Kurt was a graduate of Worcester South High School and earned his bachelor’s degree at Clark University. He worked for the EcoTarium, American and International Red Cross and New England Restaurant Association before he retired. Kurt was an avid boater, enjoyed traveling, and was a collector of many things. He also enjoyed building models, jewelry and spending time with his family and friends, especially over a cocktail. Kurt was a member of the Montacute Masonic Lodge of Worcester.

He is survived by his brother Ronald Edgren and his wife Dolores of Southborough, his nieces, nephews, extended family and friends.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, October 12, at 10 am at Emanuel Lutheran Church, 200 Greenwood Street, Worcester, MA 01607. Burial will be private. 

There are no visiting hours.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be sent in his memory to Emanuel Lutheran Church.

Arrangements are under the care of Morris Funeral Home, 40 Main Street, Southborough. To leave words of condolence to the family, please visit www.morrisSouthboroughfuneral.com

(Obituary and photo via Morris Funeral Home)

John R. Evans, 83, of South Portland, ME and formerly a long time resident of Southborough, passed away on October 3rd, 2019 at his new home, surrounded by his family, after a long courageous battle with cancer.

He was the loving and devoted husband of the late Mercedes (Halley) Evans who passed away in 2011.

Born and raised in St John’s, Newfoundland, he was the son of the late Ronald and Margaret (Jewer) Evans.

After marrying Mercedes, they moved to Southborough to raise their family. John was the owner and operator of Evans Courier Service for over 30 years. 

One of his favorite pastimes was playing games with his family. In recent years he enjoyed a regular schedule of playing pickleball and Skip-Bo with his dear friends. John’s other interests included hockey, tennis, fishing, boating and being outdoors. He was a lover of good food, most especially fish and chips and Chinese. The greatest joys in his life came from being a husband, father and grandfather (Papa). Second to that was his love of Newfoundland, a place he never ceased calling ‘Home’ and where he visited as often as he could. Above all else, it was his faith and Christian walk that was always his center.

John’s quirky sense of humor and playfulness defined his unique likability. There was hardly a person he came across that wasn’t charmed by his kind and lighthearted nature. He had a way of saying just a few word, in his own special way, that would lift a person’s spirits, be it a friend, a family member or a stranger.

He is survived by his children, Diane Bacon and Robert Evans, and his wife, Nancy, all of Portland, ME; his siblings, Doug Evans of NFLD; Marion Fojan and Barbara Struck both of MI; his granddaughters, Michaela and Andrea Bacon, Lindsey (Bacon) Kwarteng and her husband DJ. He also leaves several nieces and nephews and was especially close to his nephew, Jim Halley, and his wife Kristin.

He is predeceased by his brother, Gordon Evans.

Calling hours will be held on Tuesday, October 15, from 11am to 1pm at the Morris Funeral Home, 40 Main Street, Southborough. A private funeral service will immediately follow.

Burial will be in the Southborough Rural Cemetery.

In Lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be sent in his memory to Dana Farber Cancer Institute, 450 Brookline Ave, Brookline, MA 02215.

To leave words of condolence to the family, please visit www.morrisSouthboroughfuneral.com

(Obituary and photo via Morris Funeral Home.)

Barbara (DeFranco) Ferreira, 83, of Southborough, passed away on Thursday, October 10, 2019 at St. Patrick’s Manor in Framingham.

She was the daughter of the late Augustus and Christina (DelGaizo) DeFranco and predeceased by her sisters, Rose Mini and Regina Catano. For the past 59 years, she has been the adored wife of Angelo Ferreira. Barbara is survived by her sons, Paul Ferreira and his wife Paloma of Wayland, David Ferreira and his wife Stacey of North Reading, her daughters, Caroline Hanlon and her husband John of Marlborough, and Ellen Tobin and her husband Rich of Marlborough, her brother, Joseph DeFranco, and his wife Alice of Sudbury as well as 10 grandchildren who called her “Mimi”, one great grandchild and lots of nieces and nephews. 

Barbara was happiest with her family around the table; she was skilled in the kitchen & proud of her Italian heritage; she made the best meatballs & braciole, and had the privilege of traveling with her husband throughout their marriage, visiting Italy on more than one occasion. She will be greatly missed but her traditions left an indelible impact on her children and will be honored for years to come.

Visiting hours will be held on Monday, October 14, 2019 from 5:00 – 7:00 pm at the Slattery Funeral Home, Inc., 40 Pleasant St., Marlborough, MA. A funeral mass will be celebrated on Tuesday, October 15 at 10:00 am at St. Matthew’s Church, 105 Southville Rd., Southborough, MA 01772. Burial will follow at Knollwood Memorial Park, 321 High St., Canton, MA 02021.

In Lieu of flowers, donations may be made to: Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation, 5005 LBJ Freeway, Suite 526, Dallas, TX 75244 or www.komen.org.

(Obituary and photo via Slattery Funeral Home, Inc.)