Mack Family Funeral Homes

02/25/2026

Christopher Gosselin

Christopher Gosselin, aged 51, was born on November 7, 1974, in Fitchburg, Massachusetts, and resided in Winchendon, Massachusetts until his passing on February 16, 2026.

A dedicated electrician by profession, Christopher was a man of many talents, and he was respected and loved by his colleagues and friends alike. He found joy in the simple pleasures of life, often found camping or sitting by the campfire, embracing the serenity of the great outdoors. The most important aspect of his life was none other than his beloved daughter, Kaitlyn Gosselin, who was his pride and joy.

Christopher was the cherished son of Mark Sr. and the late Pamela Dame. He was a dear brother to Shaun (Stephanie) Dame, Nick Ford, Tony Ford, Jeff Ford, Shenikh Dame, and the late Mark Jr. and Brian Jr. He was also a loving uncle to Elizabeth Dame. Above all, he was a devoted father to Kaitlyn, who was the light of his life, and Kaitlyn's mother, Kaitlyn’s mother Melissa Daly. His absence will be deeply felt by all who knew and loved him.

A celebration of life will be held for Christopher at a later date.

We invite you to leave memories and upload photos of Christopher to the memorial page as a tribute to his life. Please do so at www.mackfamilyfh.com.Stone-Ladeau Funeral Home, 343 Central Street, Winchendon, is directing arrangements

View Christopher Gosselin's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

02/25/2026

Hector Perez

Hector Perez, affectionately known as "Tito", born on the 28th of May 1965 in Montevideo, Uruguay, was a warm-hearted and passionate man whose life was a testament to love and resilience. A man of great strength, Hector was known for his infectious laughter, his insurmountable courage, and his unwavering commitment to his family. He was a beacon of hope and a pillar of strength for everyone who had the pleasure of knowing him. As William Shakespeare once said, "It is not in the stars to hold our destiny but in ourselves," and Hector embraced this wholeheartedly, creating a legacy of love, hard work, and perseverance that will forever be etched in our hearts.

Hector was a devoted husband to Diania Perez, whom he married on the 5th of January 2002. Together, they created a life full of love, warmth, and laughter. Hector was a dedicated construction foreman whose work ethic was admired by all who worked with him. He brought the same dedication and love to his home in Fitchburg, Massachusetts, which he filled with joy and love. Hector was a beloved son of the late Villanueva Perez and Siley Fuentes. He was a cherished brother to Nilso, Ariel, and Mabel Perez. He was a passionate father to his children, Eduardo, Leonel, and Shirley Perez, and stepchildren, Amanda, Alexcia, Ashleigh, and Adriana Mauro, as they were the pride and joy of his life. His grandchildren, Kayleigh, Aubriella, Emilio, Rose, Vito, Aylah, Parker, Shawn, Ana Sofia, Evalina, Izaiah, and his late granddaughter Lilynel were his heart's delight, along with many more nieces and nephews.

Hector's life was a testament to the enduring power of love, determination, and hard work. He was a man who lived his life with passion, integrity, and grace, inspiring everyone around him. His spirit, his strength, and his love for his family will forever be remembered and cherished. As Helen Keller once said, "What we have once enjoyed deeply we can never lose. All that we love deeply becomes a part of us." Hector Perez is not just a memory to be held, but a part of our hearts that will forever remain.

In lieu of flowers, a donation may be made to the UMass Cancer Walk Foundation for Team Thiago. At https://alumni.umassmed.edu/umasscancerwalk

Calling Hours will be on Sunday, March 1, 2026, from 2:00 - 5:00 in the Brandon Funeral Home, 305 Wanoosnoc Road, Fitchburg, MA. His funeral will be held in the Funeral Home on Monday, March 2, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. Burial will be private.

We encourage friends and family to share their memories and upload photos of Hector on his memorial page. Let us come together to celebrate the life of a man whose heart was as large as his smile, and whose spirit touched us all. Brandon Funeral Home, 305 Wanoosnoc Road, Fitchburg, MA.

View Hector Perez's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

02/24/2026

Edgar C. Gelinas

Edgar C. Gelinas, known by family and friends as Eddie or Ed, embarked on his eternal journey on February 20, 2026, peacefully surrounded by his family.

Born on December 14, 1938, in Fitchburg, MA. Ed lived his life with a humble spirit and an undying love for his family and his stick-free lawn. A man of many talents, Ed was a part of the first graduating class of Notre Dame High School in 1957 and later graduated from Stevens Business College in Fitchburg. His life was a testament to diligence and dedication, having loyally served Foster Grant (FostaTek) as a Research and Development specialist for an impressive span of 61 years.

His younger years were filled with sports, from basketball and football to softball and baseball. He was a proud U.S Army veteran, serving in Germany from 1959 to 1961. An avid athlete in his youth, he carried that energy and vigor into all areas of his life. Even after retirement, Ed was found enjoying his favorite pastimes, whether it was breakfast at the Family Cafe, dinner at Boston Market, or maintaining his lawn.

Ed leaves behind his sons, Steven, Daniel, and Michael Gelinas, as well as several grandchildren & loved ones who will always remember him fondly as a loving father and a humble man.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Edgar and Leda Gelinas. Ed's life will be celebrated privately by his family.

Funeral services and burial will be private.

Brandon Funeral Home, 305 Wanoosnoc Road, Fitchburg, is directing arrangements.

View Edgar C. Gelinas's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

02/23/2026

Rita Margaret (Desrosier) Grimes

Rita Margaret (Desrosier) Grimes, born December 3, 1924, in Athol, MA, to Wilfred H. Desrosier and Leona Hachey, peacefully passed away February 19, 2026, after a short stay at the Quabbin Valley Healthcare.

She was 101 years old and lived a remarkably full life. She was the best Mom ever creating a safe, loving, supportive, and beautiful home. After graduation from Athol High School in 1942, Rita worked in the ticket booth of the York Theater, where she would be courted by potential suitors. It was not long before she met Warren C. “Bud” Grimes Jr. They were married for 43 years until his passing in 1990.

Other jobs she held were as a secretary at Riverbend School, clerk and alteration seamstress at Moskovitz's Clothing Store, and Bruce's Pharmacy Counter. Rita was an avid golfer and member of Ellinwood Country Club, where she was past-president of the Ladies Golf Association. She and her husband, Bud, were the first Ellinwood Husband/Wife Championship winners. Rita played golf until she was 86. A member of Our Lady Immaculate Church until recent years, Rita volunteered at their food pantry as well as at the Athol Memorial Hospital Gift Shop. She was active at the YMCA, participating in Silver Sneakers, yoga, and swimming, and enjoyed the offerings at the Athol Senior Center. Being a voracious reader, Rita was a committed member of Friends of the Athol Public Library.

Another of Rita's passions was playing bridge with her lifelong bridge group friends, with whom she took many memorable trips to Cape Cod, Florida, and Ogunquit, ME. Travel and cultural experiences were a part of Rita's life - trips to Ireland, Spain, and Italy -- as well as sojourns to Boston and New York City, concert events, art museums, and galleries. League Bowling was on Rita's regular schedule, and she had a brush with curling at the Petersham Curling Club. Always busy and learning, Rita took many classes -- painting, quilting, crocheting, refinishing, knitting, skiing, sewing, cooking, and decoupage - as she expressed herself through activities, arts, and crafts. There was a year of Camp Fire Girl leadership, too.

In 1974, Rita traveled to Washington, DC, to participate in the first March for Life with the Athol's Citizen's for Life group. Rita will be remembered as a gentle soul, embracing others, open, curious, fun loving, poised, and beautiful inside and out. She will live in our hearts forever.

Rita leaves three daughters: Linda Grimes of New York City; Cynthia "Cyndi" Wheeler and husband Bill of Athol; and Cathy Peel and husband Jeff of Boca Raton, FL. 'GiGi' also leaves three grandchildren: Jennifer Trudeau and husband Scott, Lunenburg, MA; Stephanie Wheeler, Athol, MA; David Wheeler, wife Christina, Dunkirk, MD -- and four great grandchildren: Will and Ashley Trudeau; Calvin and Dawson Wheeler. Rita also leaves her beloved brother, Francis Desrosier, and many nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents and husband, Rita was predeceased by her brother, Dr. Norman Desrosier (Ann), her sister Evelyn King (Hans), and her sister-in-law Aileen.

The Family would like to thank the wonderful caregivers who enabled Rita to stay in her home, who always treated her with love and respect, and who shared many a laugh or two: Lisa Duran, Pat O'Lari, Maggie Tzikas, Julie Livingston, Maryann Copeta, Cindy Lou Rivers, Heather Bassett, and Michele Cote. We would also like to thank Quabbin Valley Healthcare staff for their kindness, professionalism, and helpfulness in providing comfort in her last days.

A calling hour prior to the funeral will be held at Mack Funeral Home Athol-Orange Chapel, 110 New Athol Road, Orange, on Saturday, February 28, 2026 from 10:00 to 11:00 am, with a service at 11:00 am.

A reception will follow at the Ellinwood Country Club at noon. Private burial will take place at Silver Lake Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Friends of the Athol Public Library and the Athol Senior Center

View Rita Grimes's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

02/22/2026

Gary Edward King

Gary Edward King, known affectionately by many as "Pacino" or "GMAN," passed away on February 17, 2026.

Born on October 17, 1948, in Brooklyn, New York, Gary was a generous, smart, and charismatic individual whose impact was felt by everyone he knew. After serving valiantly as a member of the US Army Airborne, Green Beret Special Forces, he built a successful career as a Master Plumber. Throughout his life, Gary resided in Brooklyn, NY, Fitchburg, MA, and finally settled in Westminster, Massachusetts, where he would retire.

Gary had a passion for motorcycles, reading, history, and music, displaying his talent on the harmonica and guitar. His love for life was immeasurable, and he was always the life of the party. Gary was a beloved regular at Blueprint in Westminster, where he enjoyed spending time with friends and sharing stories. However, what mattered most to Gary was spending time with his children, grandchildren, and friends.

Gary is survived by his son, Jason King and his partner, Jessica McKinnon; his daughter, Erin (Dave) McKenna; his grandchildren, Madison, Alia, and Gianna McKenna; his sister, Gayle (Dwight) Harris; and his ex-wife, Deborah King. He was preceded in death by his father, Heiro King; his mother, Mary King; his sister, Kathy Berryhill; and his stepfather, Eddie Hands.

Visitation for Gary will be held on Thursday, February 26, 2026, from 5 - 7 pm at Brandon Funeral Home, located at 305 Wanoosnoc Road, Fitchburg.

We invite you to share your memories and upload photos of Gary on his memorial page as we celebrate the life of this remarkable man. His legacy of generosity, intelligence, and charisma will live on in the hearts of those he touched. Gary King, your spirit will forever be a beacon of light in our lives.

Brandon Funeral Home, 305 Wanoosnoc Road, Fitchburg, is directing arrangements.

View Gary Edward King's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

02/17/2026

When someone you love passes, knowing what to do next can feel overwhelming.

This guide is here to gently walk you through the first steps — one moment at a time.

At Mack Family Funeral Home, we believe families deserve guidance, compassion, and clarity during life’s hardest moments. You don’t have to have all the answers. We’ll help you find them.

If you ever need us, we’re here — day or night.

02/16/2026

Alexander J. Zalewski

Alexander Joseph Zalewski, 96, passed away peacefully at home on February 15, 2026.

He was born on April 1, 1929, in Baldwinville, the son of Joseph Zalewski and Mary (Matusewicz) Zalewski, and was a lifelong residence of Baldwinville.

Alex graduated from Templeton High School in 1947 and then went to trade school in Worcester, MA. He was a U.S. Army Veteran, serving during the Korean War, stationed in Japan.

Alex worked as construction plumber and fitter under the Worcester Local Union #4. He was a member of the Baldwinville American Legion Warfield Post #373, Otter River Knights of Columbus, and St. Vincent de Paul Parish in Baldwinville. In his younger years, Alex served his town as the Templeton Water Supertendent and a member of the Finance Committee.

Alex had the gift to gab, and he enjoyed telling stories about his work and history of the town. His motto to living was “Be a good person, make good decisions, and do not have anger or animosity toward others.”

Alex was predeceased by his loving wife of 68 years, Carolyn Zalewski, his son Steven, and daughters Catherine and Carol Zalewski. He was also predeceased by his sister Edith Sbrega and brother Stanley Zalewski.

He leaves behind his son Peter Zalewski of Gardner, daughter Elizabeth Zalewski of Baldwinville, daughter Susan Fritz, son-in-law Martin Fritz, and grandson Julian Fritz of Orlando, FL.

In lieu of flowers, donations made be made to either the American Legion Post #0373, P.O. Box 75, Baldwinville, MA 01436, or St. Vincent de Paul Parish, P.O. Box 14, Baldwinville, MA 01436. Please include “in memory of Alexander Zalewski” in the memo line.

Calling hours will be held Friday, February 20, 2026, at the Stone-Ladeau Funeral Home, 343 Central Street, Winchendon, MA from 9:00 – 10:00 a.m., followed by a funeral mass at 11:00 a.m. at St. Vincent de Paul Parish, Baldwinville, MA.

His burial will follow at Greenlawn Cemetery in Baldwinville with Military Honors.

View Alexander J. Zalewski's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

02/16/2026

Larry Boissoneau

LEOMINSTER - Larry Boissoneau of Punta Gorda, FL, formerly of Leominster, died January 16, 2026, in Florida, surrounded by his family.

He was born in Leominster in 1937, the son of Robert and Ruth (Hancock) Boissoneau. He was a 1955 graduate of Leominster High School and played football and baseball. He then joined the U.S. Air Force and then worked at Digital and AT&T.

He and his brother, Jack, owned and operated World of Sports in Leominster for many years.

Larry always loved to be surrounded by his family, whom he loved deeply.

He coached Pop Warner and also coached football at both St. Bernard's High School and Fitchburg High School. He was an avid golfer and a longtime member of Monoosnock Country Club. He loved to build train models and enjoyed wood carving.

He was known for saying, "It is what it is".

He is survived by his wife, Ruth Boissoneau of Punta Gorda; two sons, Robert of Athol and Larry, and his significant other, Jess, of NH; a daughter, Lesley, and her husband Ron Foster, of Leominster; ten grandchildren; three great grandchildren; his brother, Richard W. Boissoneau of NH; a sister, Beth Ann Kirby of FL and his dog, Dakota. He was predeceased by his wife and the mother of his children, Rose Marie (Armenti) Boissoneau, and his second wife, Sandra (Hickey) Boissoneau, and his brother, Jack Boissoneau.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Leominster High School Athletic Fund. Brandon Funeral Home, Fitchburg is handling local arrangements.

View Larry Boissoneau's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

02/14/2026

Jack Lendo

It is with saddened hearts that we announce the passing of our friend Jack Lendo on February 9, 2026. Jack was born on April 30, 1945, to his mother, Elizabeth Boyden Lend,o at Worcester City Hospital. Jack’s father, Lt. John Lendo, had been killed in action over the Pacific just four months before Jack was born. After the war, Betty, not wanting Jack to be an only child, decided to remarry. Walter Thwing was a kind and caring man. Within a few years, the twins, Jeffrey and Jean (nicknamed “Muffet”), joined the family, and they all moved from Worcester to a larger home in W. Boyleston.

Jack attended Worcester Academy for a year before going off to college at Heidelberg University in Tiffin, Ohio. When he finished school, he returned to W. Boyleston, and he took a job teaching at the town High School. Jack soon realized he was not born to be a teacher. He preferred being outside. He liked nature, and he liked the woodland animals who kept him company. It was only a matter of time until Jack set himself up in a landscaping business. After forty years of labor, Jack hung up his rake and discovered “YouTube!! He also loved dancing and music. No surprise that he met his special friend, Carol, when he asked her to dance at Monoosnock Country Club. Dancing became a joyful activity for them. Jack enjoyed sports and collecting coins, too.

Jack’s father, his mother, his stepfather, his brother, and his sister have all predeceased him. He is survived by his cousins, Arthur (TN) and Kevin Lendo (PA), and by my sister, Diane Dolan, my brother Richard Flynn (FL), and me, his cousin Kathy Flynn, and his best friend Carol Knight.

Jack, you were kind and caring, you were very thoughtful, and you were a true gentleman. Godspeed.

Funeral services for Jack will be held on Wednesday, February 18, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. in the Stone Ladeau Funeral Home, 343 Central Street, Winchendon, MA. He will be buried at Riverside Cemetery, Winchendon in the Spring.

In place of flowers, donations may be made to: Wounded Warrior Project, Donor Care Center, PO Box 758541, Topeka, Kansas 66675-8541.

View Jack Lendo's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

02/13/2026

Priscilla J. Hargraves

Priscilla J. Hargraves, a compassionate soul and dedicated caregiver, passed away on February 11, 2026. Born on March 17, 1935, in Fitchburg, the daughter of George and Doris (Barrows) Alden. Priscilla was a beacon of warmth and kindness who touched countless lives.

She grew up in Ashby, graduating from Ashby High School with the class of 1953, before dedicating her life to serving others. Priscilla's professional journey led her to a fulfilling career in healthcare, where she worked as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) and a Home Health Aide for a remarkable 19 years. Priscilla's dedication to her work was paralleled only by her love for her family. She created a home filled with love, warmth, and the comforting scent of homemade food. Her home was often filled with the sound of her grandchildren's laughter, as spending time with them was what mattered most to her. Even in her retirement from The Highlands in 1999, Priscilla remained active and engaged, often spotted with a crochet hook in one hand and a book in the other, her hobbies bringing her much joy and tranquility.

Her commitment to her family, her profession, and her community were testaments to her compassionate and dedicated spirit. Priscilla's life was a testament to the power of love, care, and dedication. It was a life well-lived, filled with countless moments of joy, compassion, and genuine human connection.

Priscilla Hargraves leaves behind a legacy of love, resilience, and unwavering dedication. She will be missed by her children, John Hargraves and his wife Renee of Westminster, Douglas Hargraves and his wife Debra of Lunenburg, daughter Pamela Scipione of Maine, Shelley Hargraves of Winchendon, ten grandchildren, eight great-grandchildren, three great-great-grandchildren, her close cousin, Arlene Creamer of Ashburnham, and several other cousins.

We invite all who knew and loved Priscilla to share their memories and photos on her memorial page at www.brandonfuneral.com. Your stories and pictures will help us all remember the unique and special person Priscilla was.

Funeral services and burial will be private.

Brandon Funeral Home, 305 Wanoosnoc Road, Fitchburg, is directing arrangements.

View Priscilla J. Hargraves's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

02/13/2026

Virginia W. Durgin

Virginia Whidden Durgin was born July 18, 1932. She died at home on February 12, 2026, at the age of 93.

Born and brought up in Worcester, MA, she later went to Bates College in Lewiston, ME, graduating in 1955 with an RN and a BA.

She spent 30 years working in various visiting nurse agencies in CT and MA. Virginia was always active in church, and was a long standing member of Athol Congregational Church. She devoured books on all topics, appreciated classical music, was an avid knitter and knitted hundreds of mittens for the annual Christmas Mitten Tree. Her greatest joy was being with her family whenever possible.

Ginny was known by her children to be a notorious marsh walker, stargazer, beach comber, woods rambler, garden tender, and superior grandchild guardian. She will be missed by her birds, her flowers, and everyone she touched.

She is survived by 5 children and their spouses: Linda Aja, Susan Hutchinson, Anne Reiter, Russell Durgin, and Peter Durgin. In addition she had 6 grandchildren and 4 great grandchildren.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the American Cancer Society.

A memorial service will be held to celebrate Ginny's life at Athol Congregational Church on February 28, 2026 at 11:00.

View Virginia W. Durgin's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

02/13/2026

Dorothy R. Downes

Dorothy Reinbold Downes, 88, passed away surrounded by the love she spent her lifetime giving so freely. She was born on November 17, 1937 the cherished eldest daughter of Norman and Dorina (Babineau) Reinbold, and from the very beginning was the apple of her father’s eye. Her warmth, intelligence, and gentle strength defined her life and shaped everyone fortunate enough to know her.

Dorothy grew up in Fitchburg, helping at her father’s store, Norman’s Market, where her work ethic and natural kindness were evident early on. She excelled in school graduating from St. Bernard’s High School in 1955 and went on to college.

She married Harry Downes in 1960, . Together they raised three children — Deidra, Gregory, and Kelley — who were the pride and joy of her life. Dorothy was a steady, loving presence in their home: a source of protection, encouragement, laughter, and unwavering belief. Her children will always remember her as the bright light who steadied the family and filled their lives with warmth.

Dorothy found her professional calling in real estate. She earned her license and began her career with Pandiscio Realtors, where her integrity and natural ability to connect with people quickly set her apart. She later founded Innovation Realtors, building a business rooted not just in transactions, but in relationships. Dorothy didn’t just sell homes — she helped families find security, new beginnings, and hope. She was a vibrant, positive spirit, resilient, compassionate, and endlessly encouraging. Dorothy had the rare gift of making others feel seen, safe, and capable. Her optimism was not naïve; it was chosen, and it was powerful.

She was predeceased by her husband Harry (September 2025) & leaves behind her brothers Norman Reinbold & his wife Charlotte, Paul Reinbold & his wife Cathy. Her children Deidra Zarrella of Bourne, MA, Gregory Downes of Ayer, MA, Kelley Dyment & her husband, Todd of Bolton, MA; Eight grandchildren: Dr. Bianca Zarrella, Dr. Dominique Zarrella, Zachary Zarrella & Giavanna Zarrella, Maddison Williams, her husband Daniel, Zoey Dyment, Tatum Dyment, Casey Downes & his wife Madison; 3 great grandchildren Theo, Cooper & Ruby Williams. Along with many nieces and nephews.

Though she is reunited with her parents and her husband Harry, her legacy lives on in the strength, kindness, and perseverance she instilled in those she loved. Dorothy’s life reminds us that sweetness is strength, that integrity matters, and that one loving, steady presence. can change everything.

Calling Hours will be held on Wednesday, February 18, 2026 from 9:00-10:15 AM at Brandon Funeral Home, 305 Wanoosnoc Rd., Fitchburg, MA.

The Mass will be held on Wednesday, February 18, 2026 at 11:00 AM at St. Bernard’s Parish, 333 Mechanic St., Fitchburg, MA.

The Burial will follow at St. Bernard’s Cemetery, 96 Goodrich St., Fitchburg, MA

View Dorothy R. Downes's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.