Miles Funeral Home

Miles Funeral Home Miles Funeral Homes are full-service, locally-owned funeral homes located in Holden and Sterling, MA. You can also choose cremation with a memorial ceremony.

Miles Funeral Home has an A+ rating with Better Business Bureau that proves their dedication to the families that they serve and their engagement in ethical practices. In addition, they are committed to serving all nationalities, faiths, and backgrounds. They are one of the few funeral homes in Massachusetts to be a part of the Selected Independent Funeral Homes. The funeral planning team has a Celebration of Life Center that focuses on honoring the life of your loved one in a customized, unique way. Every attendee will remember how exceptional the service is when you choose Miles Funeral Home. Miles Funeral Home offers cremation services and always has staff ready to handle the remains of your loved one in a respectful, dignified manner. If you choose direct cremation, your family may choose to scatter the ashes or have a small gathering on your own time. These ceremonies are unique in that they are not rushed to adhere to a strict burial schedule. Because the cremation is already performed, a memorial can be held anytime after, per the convenience of the family. All traditional funeral options are available, with military honors and veteran services for those who qualify. And you can also choose a modern funeral option like a themed funeral or a Life Celebration. The goal of the funeral team is to plan a service that is above the expectations of the family. Therefore, you can expect any services beyond the funeral, burial, and graveside services. Grief resources, Jewish services, orthodox funeral services, and all traditions and needs will be prioritized and provided with love. Available funeral products include urns, vaults, caskets, and memorials. Miles Funeral Home aims to have a positive impact on the Worcester, Holden, West Boylston, Paxton, Auburn, Shrewsbury, Boylston, Sterling, Clinton, and Leominster communities. Whether they sponsor the local charity golf tournament or volunteer at the food pantry, they are dedicated to making the community a better place. Pre-planning funeral services are a great way to record what your wishes are before death occurs. You can save your family the worry and let them focus on sharing memories with friends and family rather than planning a funeral. Call Miles Funeral Home to get started today. The funeral home is located at 1158 Main St Holden, MA 01520. You can call to speak with a caring funeral planner: (508) 829-4434.

Janice CobbSTERLING - Janice Marjorie Cobb (Gross), 80, passed peacefully on January 11, 2026 surrounded by her family a...
01/20/2026

Janice Cobb

STERLING - Janice Marjorie Cobb (Gross), 80, passed peacefully on January 11, 2026 surrounded by her family after a courageous 10-year battle with Alzheimer's disease. A resident of Sterling for many years, she was born and raised in Nyack, NY, the daughter of Helen and Arthur Gross. She was predeceased by her siblings Helen Henry, Kenny Gross, and Jerry Gross, to whom she was very close.

Janice is survived by her beloved husband of 59 years, Eugene M. Cobb. She leaves behind her loving family, which includes her two daughters, Tawnya Elfman and Rachael Cobb-Douglas, and her son, Michael Cobb, along with her daughter-in-law Jessica Weathers. Janice's cherished grandchildren are Maya Maria Luisa, Eva Rachelle, Juliana Elyse, Jasmine Olivia, Zachary Orion, and Vivian Wren. In addition to her immediate family, Janice is also survived by her loving sister-in-law, Susan Huntley, and her cousins, John Henry and Stephanie Leister. She will be fondly remembered by many nieces and nephews as well as extended family.

Jan attended high school at South Lancaster Academy, in Lancaster, MA, where she met the love of her life, Eugene. She attended nursing school at Atlantic Union College and worked as a registered nurse for over 40 years, including 30 at Leominster Hospital. Janice was the life of the party and lit up a room with her laughter wherever she went. She brought energy, humor, and kindness to every gathering, putting others at ease with her warmth and generosity. Jan was an avid gardener. She loved to sew, knit, scrapbook, journal, write poetry, sing, play the accordion, and collect seashells by the seashore. She created lasting memories by baking with her children and grandchildren and was well known for her exceptional apple pies. She had wanderlust and enjoyed being outside, traveling with her family, camping, hiking, biking, and adventuring. She later traveled extensively on bicycle throughout the US, Canada, and Europe with her partner in both life and adventure, Gene. They gained recognition for their travel photography exhibitions at Bartlett Art Gallery, including one that chronicled her breast cancer journey. In retirement, she and Gene traveled throughout the Northeast in their camper (The Majestic) but always eagerly returned to spend time with her grandchildren. As Jan grew older, Gene's care and support for his wife showed the depth of their enduring love.

Jan's family would like to express a special thank you to her many caregivers at the Jewish Health Care Center in Worcester, The Wellness Center in West Boylston, and to Cathy Ian Kealy, in-home CNA.

A celebration of Janice's life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Alzheimer's Association https://donorservices.alz.org.

Arrangements entrusted to the care of Miles-Sterling Funeral Home. www.milesfuneralhome.com

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Margaret RendanoHOLDEN - Margaret M. Rendano, 91, of Holden, passed away peacefully in her home on January 13, 2026 with...
01/20/2026

Margaret Rendano

HOLDEN - Margaret M. Rendano, 91, of Holden, passed away peacefully in her home on January 13, 2026 with her family by her side. She is the loving wife of the late Emil Rendano, who predeceased her in 2012.

She was born the youngest of seven children in Newark, New Jersey to Irish immigrant parents, Michael and Bridget (Forde) McDermott, and lived in Clinton Township, New Jersey for over 40 years. In 2007, she and Emil moved to Massachusetts to be closer to her children. Margaret was a true family woman in every sense of the word. She loved spending time with her extended family, all of whom held a special place in her heart. She loved to travel, delighted in a good card game, and found great joy in gathering people together-often around a table where her famous meatballs and sauce were the highlight. Her close circle of friends, affectionately known as "the gang," brought her laughter, loyalty, and lifelong companionship. Beyond her home and friendships, Margaret was highly respected in her professional life, earning admiration for her dedication over more than 19 years as an executive secretary.

She leaves behind her four children, Steven Rendano and his wife Susan of Hudson, Diane Cross of California, Robert Rendano of Holden, and John Rendano of Colorado; her beloved grandchildren, Ryan, Spencer, and Braden Rendano, Chelsea Cross, and Sabrina and Raymond Rendano; and many nieces and nephews.

She is preceded in death by her husband Emil, and siblings, Mary McDermott, Frank McDermott, John McDermott, Eileen Frazier, Kathleen Wean and Theresa Coiro; and granddaughter Leilani Cross.

Margaret and her husband Emil will be laid to rest privately at the Massachusetts Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Winchendon.

Arrangements are under the care of Miles Funeral Home in Holden www.milesfuneralhome.com

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Colin W. MacDonaldWORCESTER —Colin W. MacDonald, 76, died peacefully on Friday, January 16, 2026, at Saint Vincent Hospi...
01/19/2026

Colin W. MacDonald

WORCESTER —Colin W. MacDonald, 76, died peacefully on Friday, January 16, 2026, at Saint Vincent Hospital, Worcester. He was born in Milford, the beloved son of the late Ronald and Alyce (Marchand) MacDonald.

Colin graduated from Doherty High School and attended Worcester Junior College. He went on to work at Worcester County National Bank, Shawmut Bank, and Fleet Bank, supporting Computer Output Microfiche Operations. He later worked for NEC, where he supported the Massachusetts State Police Automated Fingerprint Identification System. He achieved CompTIA A+ certification and more recently owned his own computer repair business, serving many clients in the Wachusett region. Colin married Evelyn D. Murphy in 1977 and settled in Rutland. He served the First Congregational Church of Rutland as treasurer and there leaves many dear friends. Colin loves his Lord Jesus with all his heart and daily studied scripture, reading the entire Bible many times over. He was an avid motorcyclist and hiked Mount Wachusett almost daily for as long as he was able. He was happy to fix anything computer or mechanical. He loved all animals and enjoyed the companionship of many dogs, cats, and birds during his lifetime. He was a skilled aquarist.

Colin will be lovingly missed and remembered by Evelyn, his wife of 48 years; his son, Sean T. MacDonald of Northbridge; his sister, Fay MacDonald of Worcester; his treasured granddaughter, Lila MacDonald; his brother-in-law, Terrence Murphy, and wife Nancy of Charleton; and his niece, Heather Berube, her husband John of Newmarket, NH, and several grand-nieces and nephews. Colin was predeceased by his brother, Ian MacDonald; his sister-in-law, Carole; brothers-in-law, Dennis J. Murphy and Lawrence D Murphy; and niece, Erin Murphy.

A Memorial Service honoring and celebrating Colin's life will be held at 11:00 AM on Saturday, January 24th, at the First Congregational Church of Rutland, 264 Main Street, Rutland, MA. Interment will be held at a later date at Rural Cemetery, Rutland.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Rutland Food Pantry, 258 Main Street, Rutland, MA.

Miles Funeral Home, 1158 Main Street, Holden, is assisting the family with arrangements.

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Joseph D. QuinlivanJoseph “Joe” D. Quinlivan, 85, of Ocala, Florida, passed away peacefully January 2, 2026, with his fa...
01/18/2026

Joseph D. Quinlivan

Joseph “Joe” D. Quinlivan, 85, of Ocala, Florida, passed away peacefully January 2, 2026, with his family by his side.

Born in Worcester, Massachusetts, Joe lived a life defined by hard work, service, and devotion to his family. He proudly served in the United States Navy as a nuclear weapons specialist aboard the USS Ticonderoga, a role that reflected his intelligence, courage, and sense of duty.

Following his military service in 1962, Joe drove Semi’s for United Parcel Service, upon his retirement in 1998 he had 36 yrs of accident-free driving while logging more than a million miles. Known for his strong work ethic, he approached every responsibility with dedication and pride. No matter the weather, he ALWAYS made it home to his family.

In 2008 Joe and Ann moved permanently to Ocala, FL to enjoy their retirement after residing 40 years in Rutland, MA.

Joe was a man of many interests and simple joys. He had a lifelong love of breeding and racing homing pigeons, he also took great pride in breeding AKC registered beagles, and found happiness hunting, fishing and golfing, where he was proud to have made a hole in one! He was admired for being clever and witty, always ready with a sharp remark or a knowing smile.

Joe is survived by his beloved wife of 63 years Ann Marie (Pitisci) Quinlivan; his three children Mariann and her husband Norman Allain of Leicester; Joseph Jr. and his wife Gina Quinlivan of Oakham and Kathleen Quinlivan-Beck and her husband Brian Beck of Charlton; his cherished grandchildren Benjamin and Nicole Allain, Erin and Nicholas Quinlivan, Cutter and Quinn Beck; his brother Thomas (Anne) Quinlivan, as well as nieces, nephews and in-laws.

He was predeceased by his parents James S. and Bridget M. (Sullivan) Quinlivan, his siblings James Quinlivan and Ann M. Fitzgerald, and his sister-in-law Joan Nugent Quinlivan.

Services will be held on Sunday January 25, 2026, at Miles Funeral Home, 1158 Main St., Holden, MA with calling hours 1:00 to 3:00 p.m., followed by a funeral service at 3:00 p.m.

The family would like to thank Hospice of Marion County, especially Tamika Burke for all the care and support provided, as well as the tight knit Rolling Greens community for their love and support.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Hospice of Marion County PO Box 4860, Ocala, FL 34478-4860 or online at https://hospiceofmarion.org/donate/

Joe’s strength, humor, guidance and unwavering love for his family will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

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Geraldine "Jeri" BerensonAMHERST/NORTHAMPTON - Geraldine (Cohen) Berenson of Amherst and Northampton died January 17th, ...
01/18/2026

Geraldine "Jeri" Berenson

AMHERST/NORTHAMPTON - Geraldine (Cohen) Berenson of Amherst and Northampton died January 17th, 2026, at the age of 90. Born August 19, 1935, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, she was the daughter of Michael Cohen and Sylvia Goldberg Cohen.

On June 12, 1955, she married the love of her life, Robert Bernard Berenson. They were married for 65 years and had three children together.

She was predeceased by her late husband Robert and much-loved daughter, Rebecca Berenson. She is survived by two sons: Ronald J. Berenson and his spouse, Hannah of Florence, and their children, Samuel, Sadie and Solomon; and David M. Berenson and his spouse, Madeleine, of Avon, Colorado and David’s children, Cody and Dylan; and by Madeline’s children, Andre and Marcel and grandchildren. She is also survived and by her son-in- law, Charles Rosenblum of Worcester, and by grandchildren, Lewis, Lena, and Liza J. Rosenblum.

Recently, Jeri was thrilled to meet her first great grandchild, Beau. Other survivors include a sister, Dr. Wilma Finmark, and a brother, William Cohen, and his spouse, Gail. Jeri’s extended family on her father’s side, the Cohens, included 11 aunts and uncles by a much-venerated grandmother, Bessie, who was a hero to her vast family, and a model of Jewish strength and identity. Jeri lived her life dedicated to her children, grandchildren, and their children but her love and sense of duty and loving service extended far beyond her immediate family.

She distributed her love and caring widely to others through her many years of work at Jessie’s House in Northampton and the deeply loving and caring connections she made through her work with Big Brothers, Big Sisters and the Center for New Americans.

Jeri studied piano her entire life and enjoyed playing and watching tennis. Her kindness and generosity were a blessing to all those who came to know her and enriched her own life beyond measure.

Family and friends will gather to honor Jeri’s memory at a Graveside Funeral Service at 9:30 AM on Tuesday, January 20th at B’nai Brith Cemetery, 55 St. John’s Road, Worcester. Memorial Observance will be private. Arrangements are in the care of Miles Funeral Home of Holden.

In lieu of flowers, Memorial Donations may be made to Big Brothers Big Sisters of Western MA, 266 Cold Spring Ave, W Springfield, MA 01089 (www.bbbswm.org) or The Center for New Americans, James House, 42 Gothic Street, Northampton, MA 01060 (www.cnam.org).

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Ronald RobertiWEST BOYLSTON/STERLING – Ronald Roberti, age 85, passed away peacefully at his beloved lakefront home in S...
01/17/2026

Ronald Roberti

WEST BOYLSTON/STERLING – Ronald Roberti, age 85, passed away peacefully at his beloved lakefront home in Sterling on Thursday, January 15, 2026.

Born in Holden, Ron was raised in West Boylston, graduating from West Boylston High School with the class of 1958. After high school, Ron admirably and proudly served his country in the United States Air Force. He went on to work as a truck driver for the duration of his career. He married the love of his life, Barbara A. Hemenway.

Ron was a generous and kind man. A father figure to his wife’s children as well as many of his friends and neighbors. His family recalls him being a provider and a protector, a man many could go to for help. He loved riding his Harley Davidson and adding to his one-of-a-kind gun collection, passions he passed onto his children.

Those around town knew Ron enjoyed is morning breakfast routine every day at the Country Kettle in West Boylston with Kathy and his loyal friends.

Later in life, Ron and his wife moved to Waushacum Lake in Sterling where they found happiness and comfort.

He is survived by beloved family members Lloyd Hemenway and his wife, Stefani of Buckeye, AZ, Lance Hemenway and his wife, Kristen of Sterling; Veronica Smith of Pittsburgh, PA; a brother, Kevin Banks and his wife, Donna of West Boylston; a sister, Maureen Banks Carima and her husband, Gary of West Boylston 15 grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; and the Corbett family, especially his dear friend Tom Corbett.

He is predeceased by his beloved wife, Barbara A. Roberti, and his mother, Lena (Roberti) Banks.

Relatives and friends are invited to visit with Ron’s family from 9:00 am to 11:00 am on Wednesday, January 21st, at Miles-Sterling Funeral & Tribute Center, 100 Worcester Rd., Sterling. A funeral service will follow at 11:00 am at the funeral home. Burial will follow at Mount Vernon Cemetery in West Boylston.

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Susan E. (Sniederman) GotzBOSTON – Susan (Sniederman) Gotz, age 80, passed away at home on January 15th, 2026, after a s...
01/16/2026

Susan E. (Sniederman) Gotz

BOSTON – Susan (Sniederman) Gotz, age 80, passed away at home on January 15th, 2026, after a sudden illness. She was born in Worcester, Massachusetts, and spent the past 15 years living in Boston.

Susan was the beloved daughter of the late Nathan Sniederman and Ruth Sniederman. She was the devoted wife of the late Richard Gotz, who passed away on December 27. They were married for 60 years and shared a life rooted in family, community, and deep connection.

Susan is survived by her daughter, Julie Gotz of Mount Pleasant, South Carolina, and her three cherished granddaughters, Zoe, Lily, and Sofia Place; her son, James Gotz of Maine, and his children, Margaret and Benjamin Gotz; and her dear sister, Louise Levin of Westport, Connecticut.

Throughout her life, Susan was deeply involved in the Jewish community and took great pride in her faith and traditions. She was an active supporter of many charitable organizations, including the Breast Cancer Research Foundation and the Jewish Federation.

Susan lived life with joy, generosity, and grace. She was a wonderful wife, mother, Mimi, and friend. She was loved by so many and will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

Family and friends will gather to honor Sue’s memory at her Funeral Service at 12:00 noon on Tuesday, January 20th at Miles Funeral Home, 1158 Main Street, Holden. Interment will follow at B’nai Brith Cemetery, 55 St. John’s Road, Worcester. Memorial Observance will be announced.

In lieu of flowers, those wishing to honor Susan’s memory may make a donation in her name to The Breast Cancer Research Foundation, 28 West 44th Street, Suite 609, New York, NY 10036 (www.bcrf.org).

The Funeral Service for Susan Gotz will be available for live-streaming beginning at 12:00 noon on Tuesday, January 20th, 2026 via the following link: https://client.tribucast.com/tcid/a26019027153658.

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Donald WhitneyJefferson - Donald C. "Ducky" Whitney, 87, died peacefully on Thursday, January 15, 2026 at St. Vincent Ho...
01/16/2026

Donald Whitney

Jefferson - Donald C. "Ducky" Whitney, 87, died peacefully on Thursday, January 15, 2026 at St. Vincent Hospital, Worcester. He was born in Worcester, the son of the late Francis K. and Jane D. (Borucki) Whitney and was raised in Grafton.

Donald graduated from Grafton High School and went on to serve proudly in the U.S. Army. After his time in the service, Donald worked for over 25 years as an Operating Engineer for R.E. Chapman Co. in Oakdale. He married his beloved, Linda and the couple settled in Jefferson. Donald was a member of St. Mary's Church in Jefferson where he leaves many dear friends. Donald was also an active member of the Disabled American Veterans, Chapter 4 in Worcester for many years.

Donald will be lovingly missed and remembered by his wife of 64 years, Linda M. (Sparrow) Whitney; his sisters, Mary Ricker of Jefferson and Linda Terrian and her husband, Thomas of Worcester; his brother, David Whitney of Florida; his niece whom he considered a daughter, Ramona Caron and her son, CJ Caron; as well as several god children. Duckey was predeceased by his brothers, Francis, Robert and Richard.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend calling hours from 5 to 7 p.m. on Monday, January 19, 2026 at Miles Funeral Home, 1158 Main Street, Holden. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, January 20, 2026 at St. Mary's Church, 114 Princeton Street, Jefferson. Burial will follow at Worcester County Memorial Park, 217 Richards Ave., Paxton. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the American Lung Association or the American Diabetes Association.

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Nicola Lo StraccoWORCESTER - Nicola Lo Stracco, 83, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his beloved family, on Sunday,...
01/16/2026

Nicola Lo Stracco

WORCESTER - Nicola Lo Stracco, 83, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his beloved family, on Sunday, January 11, 2026, at St. Vincent Hospital in Worcester.

Nicola was born in Torre dei Nolfi, Abruzzo, Italy, the son of the late Alberico and Adelina (Tiberi) Lo Stracco. He attended primary school in Italy until the age of 11, when he and his brother Felice emigrated to Niagara Falls, Ontario, to join the rest of their family. In 1961, Nicola moved to the United States, settling in Worcester, where he attended North High School.

He went on to earn a bachelor’s degree in mathematics from Assumption College and furthered his education with a master’s degree in education from Worcester State College and Worcester Polytechnic Institute, where he received a second master’s degree in mathematics. Nicola began his career as a high school mathematics teacher before transitioning into engineering. He worked for many years at Fenwal as a reliability engineer and concluded his professional career at Raytheon, from which he retired.

Nicola had many interests and passions. He enjoyed classical music, making wine, gardening, reading, watching historical films, skiing, visiting family in Canada and Italy, and cooking, especially his beloved polenta. Above all else, family was at the center of his life. He cherished time spent with his grandchildren, who affectionately called him Nonno, and he was a devoted presence at their sporting events and activities. Nicola was also a proud supporter of Assumption University athletics and events, where he served on the President’s Council.

Nicola is survived by his children: Chiara (Lo Stracco) Barnes and her husband Jared of Holden; Gina (Lo Stracco) Johnston and her husband James of Holden; Nicholas Lo Stracco and his wife Vanessa of Virginia; and Julia (Lo Stracco) Lawrence and her husband Barrington of Illinois; and by the mother of his children and former wife, Janet DeChiaro. He is also survived by his beloved grandchildren: Avery and Grant Barnes; Annabelle and Madelyn Johnston; Jolie, Vianney, Natalie, Giorgio, Avila, Sienna, and Campion Lo Stracco, with one grandchild on the way; and Ayden and Tristen Lawrence.

He is further survived by his brothers Felice Lo Stracco and his wife Dominique of Florida, Angelo Lo Stracco and his wife Fernanda of Worcester, and Joseph Lo Stracco of Worcester; his sisters Lola Lo Stracco of Italy, Ana Tiberi and her husband Gino of Ontario, Filomena Finucci of Ontario and Barbara Cercone and her husband James of New York; as well as many nieces, nephews, and extended family.

He was predeceased by his brother Dino Lo Stracco, and by his daughter Theresa Lo Stracco, who passed away at birth.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend a Calling Hour on Friday, January 30, 2026 from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM at Saint Mary’s Catholic Church, 114 Princeton Street, Jefferson. A Mass of Christian Burial will immediately follow at 11:00 AM. Burial will be held privately.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Nicola’s name may be made to Assumption University Charitable Giving, 500 Salisbury Street, Worcester, MA 01609.

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Today, National Hat Day. We’re tipping our hats to the many roles we all play and the stories we carry with us.  A thoug...
01/15/2026

Today, National Hat Day. We’re tipping our hats to the many roles we all play and the stories we carry with us. A thoughtful way to mark the day is by “tipping your hat” to someone who has supported you, offering a word of thanks or a simple kindness. Sometimes it is the simplest objects that help us remember, reflect, and connect.

Philip F. HelleRUTLAND - Philip F. Helle, 84, passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family on Sunday, January ...
01/14/2026

Philip F. Helle

RUTLAND - Philip F. Helle, 84, passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family on Sunday, January 11, 2026 at UMass Memorial Medical Center - University Campus in Worcester.

Phil was loved by all who knew him. He was always quick with a smile, encouraging words and witty remarks. His family and friends meant the world to him.

Phil graduated from Wachusett Regional High School, class of 1959, Worcester Junior College earning an Associate’s Degree in Engineering, class of 1963, as well as Northeastern University, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in 1968. He worked at multiple manufacturing positions in Central Massachusetts, before founding the consulting firm, Helle-Abair Consulting Incorporated, with his dear friend and partner Bob Abair.

Phil was an avid Boston sports fan. He was one of the founders of the Central Massachusetts Pop Warner Football League, and the local team, the Rutland Raiders.

Phil’s hometown and the people of Rutland Massachusetts were near and dear to his heart. He was always positive and upbeat. Fun and festivities followed him. He constantly encouraged family and friends to get together, enjoy a laugh and a lobster, spending time with his relatives and grandchildren alike.

He was involved in numerous organizations including multiple school reunions, July 4th parade activities, Rutland’s 250th anniversary celebration and much more. From days as a young child and decades later Phil marched and rode in floats and classic automobiles entered in the Rutland July 4th parade. During Rutland’s 250th Anniversary, he was a proud member of the Demond Demons. Phil was also a member of the Rufus Putnam Free Masons Lodge for over 60 years.

Phil was proud of his Finnish heritage. As a young man he worked in the family’s public steam bath in Worcester Massachusetts including chopping wood to fuel the saunas from trees on their land in Rutland.

An avid camper and amateur stone mason, Phil travelled across New England with family and friends camping before eventually building a vacation cabin in Fryeburg, Maine on Kezar Pond with his brother Daniel Helle and friend Dave Hammond, naming it HHH. He loved Maine, listening to the Loons yodel at dusk, and enjoyed collecting stones to build future walls and fireplaces at family homes.

Phil is predeceased by his wife Ursula (Rapp) Helle, his parents Klaus and Vieno Helle and his brother Daniel Helle.

Phil leaves his daughter, Julie A. (Helle) Grignon and her husband Paul of Warwick, RI, his sons, Joel P. Helle of Phoenix, AZ, Steven D. Helle and his wife Meghan of Scituate, and his brother, Richard Helle and his wife, Janice of Princeton.

Phil also leaves his loving grandchildren, Cameron and Jace McCarthy, Nicholas and Olivia Helle, Danielle (Helle) DiGiacomo and Jacqueline Helle.

The family will be forever grateful for the support and friendship Phil had with Dick Gibney and his wife Gloria.

Relatives and friends are invited to visit with Phil’s family from 9:00 am to 11:00 am on Monday, February 2nd, at the Miles Funeral Home, 1158 Main St., Holden. A memorial service will follow at 11:00 am at the funeral home. Burial will take place privately in the Spring.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Phil's name can be made to the First Congregational Church of Auburn online at https://www.auburnfirstucc.org/donate/, or to the Rutland 4th of July Committee online at www.rutlandma-4thofjuly.org/donate.

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Frederick C. EdlinHUBBARDSTON – Frederick C. Edlin, 72, beloved husband of Diane G. (Dambra) Edlin, passed away unexpect...
01/13/2026

Frederick C. Edlin

HUBBARDSTON – Frederick C. Edlin, 72, beloved husband of Diane G. (Dambra) Edlin, passed away unexpectedly, surrounded by his family, on Saturday, January 10, 2026, at Heywood Hospital. Born in Worcester and raised in Holden. He was the son of the late Merton and Muriel (Joseph) Edlin.

Fred was a graduate of Wachusett Regional High School. He went on to further his education at the Worcester Industrial Technical Institute, where he earned two associate's degrees. Fred entered the family blacksmith business, Edlin and Son Blacksmiths, which is currently operating under the direction of the fourth generation. He and his wife moved to Hubbardston in 1979. When he was not spending time with his family or working, he could often be found working on his house, which after 47 years is still a work in progress. He was known as a man with particular tastes for food, he enjoyed good fried chicken, corn on the cob, Tab, and salt. He was an avid outdoorsman. In his spare time, he enjoyed gardening and farming, as well as ironwork, antiques, coin collecting, and tinkering with his tractors (hoping they ran). And while he never enjoyed being cold, in his younger years he could often be found snowshoeing, or cross-country skiing. He was a member of Old Sturbridge Village since high school, a member of First Congregational Church for over 50 years, a member of the Holden Historical Commission, and a member of Hubbardston Old Tractor Society for over a decade. And in the summers, his favorite vacation spot was York, Maine, where he could enjoy a pepper burger on the beach.

He will be lovingly missed and remembered by his wife of 49 years, Diane; his sons, Eli Edlin and his wife, Devon of Hubbardston and Tyler Edlin and his wife, Jayme of Mansfield, CT; his daughter, Jenny Banach and her husband, Michael of Holden; his seven grandchildren including Lily, Luke, Luna, Frederick, Allie, Amelia and Jett; his nephew, Fernando Edlin of Foster City, CA: and his niece, Paula Dambra of WA. In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his son, Ethan C. Edlin and his brother, Charles F. Edlin.

Relatives and friends are invited to visit with the family from 4 to 7 p.m. on Wednesday, January 14 at the Miles Funeral Home, 1158 Main Street, Holden. A private funeral service will be held at the convenience of the family. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Joslin Diabetes Center, 1 Joslin Place, Boston, MA 02215.

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1158 Main Street
Holden, MA
01520

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