Author Archives: Dana Farwell

   Susan Patricia Kennedy Astone, 68, of Nashua, wife of Joseph John Astone, passed away Wednesday, November 13, 2024, at Brigham & Women’s Hospital in Boston after a lifetime battle with cancer. As a child, Susan was diagnosed with neuroblastoma. She miraculously survived but was diagnosed with stage 4 lung cancer in November 2013 and a glioblastoma in August 2024. Despite all her health issues, she remained a pillar of light, happiness, support, and love to everyone in her life.

   Born in Boston, Massachusetts on July 7, 1956, she was the daughter of the late Maurice and Elaine (Woods) Kennedy of Harwich, MA. Susan grew up in Dedham, MA and was a graduate of Dedham High School Class of 1974. She furthered her education at Framingham State College, earning a Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education in 1978 and her Master’s degree in Education from Notre Dame College in 1989. Susan also graduated from Plymouth State College, where she received a Certificate of Advanced Graduate Studies in 2005.

     Susan was passionate about education and reading. She began her career as a Teacher in the Foxborough (MA) Public School System from September 1978 to June 1981; then as a Teacher and Reading Specialist with the Bedford (NH) Public Schools for 22 years from August 1981 to June 2004. Susan continued as an Assistant Principal and Special Education Coordinator with the Hollis (NH) Public Schools from June 2004 to June 2007. Susan then continued to work for the Burlington (MA) Public Schools as a Principal from July 2007 to June 2013 and District RtI Administrator from July 2013 through June 2021.

     A resident of Nashua since 1981, Susan was a communicant of St. John Neumann’s Church in Merrimack and a former communicant and Eucharistic Minister at St. Christopher’s Church in Nashua. She loved music and sang with both the Manchester and Nashua Choral Groups. She also enjoyed playing the piano, skiing, sailing, gardening, drinking tea, watching General Hospital, and reading to her grandson. Susan and her family loved traveling to Hawaii and spending time at her “happy place” at Red River Beach in South Harwich, MA.

    Members of her family include her husband Joe, whom she married on July 19, 1981 and shared over 43 years together; her three children, the late Joseph Kennedy Astone, Kristina Patrice Astone, Melissa Nicole (Astone) Munro and her husband Patrick and son, Travis Munro. In addition to Susan’s parents and son, she was predeceased by her brother, David Kennedy.

     Calling hours will be held at the FARWELL FUNERAL HOME, 18 Lock Street, Nashua on Wednesday, November 20^th from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. A Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated in St. John Neumann Church, 708 Milford Road, Route 101-A, Merrimack, NH, Thursday, November 21^st at 10:30 a.m. Interment will follow at Edgewood Cemetery in Nashua. Friends are invited to attend this celebration of Susan’s life. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her memory to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, the American Cancer Society, and Joseph Kennedy Astone Fund, c/o Metabolic Research, Boston Children’s Hospital, 330 Longwood Ave, Boston, MA 02115 ATTN: Dr. Harvey Levy. To leave an online message of condolence, please visit www.farwellfuneralservice.com 

   George Henry Partridge, Jr., 83, of Nashua, passed away Friday morning, November 8, 2024 at Premier Rehab and Healthcare in Nashua.          

   Mr. Partridge was born February 22, 1941, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, son of the late George H. Sr. and Yvonne (Bolduc) Partridge of Northborough, Massachusetts.

    A graduate of Northborough High School in 1959, George obtained an Associate Degree in Electrical Engineering Technology from Wentworth Institute of Technology, Boston, MA in 1961, a Bachelor of Science in Engineering Technology from Lowell Technological Institute, Lowell, MA in 1974 and a Masters Degree in Business Administration from New Hampshire College, Manchester, NH in 1990.

     George joined the U.S. Air Force in 1961, had basic training at Lackland AFB, San Antonio, TX, and graduated from communication school at Keesler AFB, Biloxi, MS; was stationed in France for three years which included Chateauroux Air Station and then Orleans (Joan of Arc birthplace) where he was an audio specialist for the Armed Forces Network (AFN) radio station.

     He came to New Hampshire in 1969 where he began working for Sanders Associates on Canal Street and Spit Brook Road for a couple of years and, eventually, joined Digital Equipment Corporation (DEC) for 22 years, the 13 as a technical specialist for its Government Systems Group (GSG) located in Merrimack, NH, and retiring in 1992.

     He was a member of the James E. Coffey Post 3 of The American Legion in Nashua, providing photographs for its newsletter, the “Coffey Cup”; was also a member, in good standing, of the Nashua Elks Lodge #720, Lafayette Athletic Club (LAC) and the Fraternal Order of Eagles in Biddeford, Maine; a graduate from the Boston Bartenders School of America.

    George was the husband of Catherine Elizabeth (Smith) Partridge, whom he married on July 31, 1971. They shared over 51 years of marriage until her passing on February 13, 2023.

     He is survived by his daughter, Michelle Ann Partridge Oro and her husband Jonathan Oro; and granddaughters, Catherine Judith Oro and Elizabeth Ann Oro.

     A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated in Immaculate Conception Church, 216 East Dunstable Road, Nashua, Thursday, November 14^th at 10 a.m. Interment will follow in Edgewood Cemetery. Friends are invited to attend. To leave an online message of condolence, please visit www.farwellfuneralservice.com Arrangements are in the care of the Farwell Funeral Service, 18 Lock Street, Nashua.

Sylvio David Dion, Jr., 88, of Nashua, NH, passed away on Thursday, November 7^th surrounded by his five loving children.  He was born on May 31, 1936 in Nashua, the son of Sylvio D. Dion Sr. and Rose Yvonne (Morency) Dion and lived his entire life in Nashua.  He graduated from Nashua High School and attended Northeastern University.  “Sy” joined the Army Reserves in 1954 and was so proud to have served his country.

Sy met the love of his life Dorothy (Tsimbidaros) from Lowell, MA in 1953, and they married at St. Louis de Gonzague Church in Nashua on September 5, 1960.  They were married for 64 years and together for 71 years.

He was a die-hard Boston sports fan and excitedly watched as many Red Sox, Bruins, Celtics, and Patriots games as possible.  He loved old movies and cherished the time he could spend listening to music with his wife.  And he loved telling Dad jokes!

Sy was a devout Catholic and was a parishioner of Immaculate Conception Church in Nashua for over 50 years.

Sy loved his family and his God.  When he passed peacefully, he was surrounded by his 5 children Kathy (Art) Korn, Mary (Randy) Nicewarner, Jim (Don), Julie (Jim) Dillavou, and John.  He is also survived by his brother Bob (Diane), grandchildren Krista, Jake, Ryan, Jamie, Jason, Michaela, Josh, and Abbie; 6 great grandchildren and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.  He was predeceased by his parents Sylvio and Yvonne, his sister Jackie and best friend and brother-in-law Bob, and sister-in-law Lucy.

There will be a funeral mass at Immaculate Conception Church, 216 East Dunstable Road in Nashua on Wednesday, November 13^th at 10 AM. Interment will follow at St. Louis Cemetery. Family and friends are invited to attend. Memorial donations in Sy’s memory may be directed to the National World War II Museum in New Orleans, the Alzheimer’s Association, or the favorite charity of your choice.

To leave an online message of condolence, please visit www.farwellfuneralservice.com  Arrangements are in the care of the Farwell Funeral Service, 18 Lock Street, Nashua.

   Thomas O. Pelkey, Jr., 62, of Nashua, husband of Sandra E. (Goulet) Pelkey, passed away Thursday afternoon, October 31, 2024 after a brief illness.           

   A resident of Nashua for many years, Tom was born in Albany, New York on February 12, 1962 a son of Thomas O. Pelkey and the late Barbara (Gagnon) Pelkey. During his youth, Tom and his family resided all around the world, in places such as Norway and Japan during his father’s work with the US Navy. He later made his home in Virginia and Hudson, NH before moving to Nashua. Nashua is where Tom met and later married his wife, Sandy, on June 23^rd 1990.

    Tom has been employed as a masonry foreman with Carrigilio Construction for over 30 years. For many years he would also do residential masonry jobs on the weekends with the help of his sons, friends, and many coworkers.

     In his spare time, he enjoyed riding and wrenching on his motorcycles and spending time with his family and friends. He loved going for long peaceful rides with friends and family to visit beautiful places and people.

   Tom was known to be a very generous and caring man. He was always willing to go out of his way to help his friends, old or new.

   Members of his family include his wife Sandy, whom he shared 36 years with; his sons, Alexander Pelkey, and Mitchell Pelkey and his wife Leah Pelkey; his father and step-mother, Thomas and Beverly Pelkey; a brother, Gregory Pelkey; a sister, Cheryl Fisher; his brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, Anthony and Susan (Goulet) Joyce and Alan and Joyce (Varney) Goulet; his nieces, Cassandra (Joyce) Elliott and her husband Kevin, Aly Goulet and Olivia Goulet. As well as several aunts uncles and cousins. Tom is pre-deceased by his mother Barbara (Gagnon) Pelkey and nephew Ryan Joyce.

    Calling hours will be held at the FARWELL FUNERAL HOME, 18 Lock Street, Nashua on Friday, November 8^th from 4 to 7 p.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated in St. Christopher Church, 62 Manchester Street, Nashua, Saturday, November 9^th at 10 a.m.  Friends are invited to attend. To leave an online message of condolence, please visit www.farwellfuneralservice.com Donations can be made, in Tom’s name, to St Jude’s children’s research hospital.  

   JoAnn (Christie) Grygorcewicz, 71, of Nashua, widow of Edward W. Grygorcewicz, passed away at home, Thursday afternoon, October 24, 2024, after a period of declining health.        

   A native and lifelong resident of Nashua, she was born on June 20, 1953, a daughter of the late David P. and Jeannette A. (Robertson) Christie. JoAnn attended the former Sacred Heart School of St. Patrick Church and graduated from Nashua High School Class of 1971.  

   JoAnn was employed as an aviation engineer with Kollsman Instruments and their successor Elbit Systems for many years until her retirement in 2017.

    She was a communicant of St. Joseph The Worker Parish and taught C.C.D.  (Confraternity of Christian Doctrine) at the church for a number of years.

    An active outdoors woman, JoAnn loved playing with the Greater Nashua Softball League; she was an avid golfer and enjoyed gardening at her home.

     JoAnn and her husband Ed, were married in October of 1973 and shared over 25 years together until his passing on August 17, 1999. She was also predeceased by her sister, Janet C. Christie, who passed away February 22, 2015.

    Members of her family include a son, Edward W. Grygorcewicz, Jr. and his wife Nicki; two daughters, Karen Tlili and her husband Hamdi, and Vicki Grygorcewicz; six grandchildren, Joshua Grygorcewicz and his wife Megan Fry, Max Grygorcewicz, Sam Grygorcewicz, Kaiden Grygorcewicz, Haitham Tlili and Kais Tlili; two brothers, John Christie and his wife Debbie, and Jay Christie and his wife, Carol; a sister, Jeanne Mithen; a nephew, Brian Mithen; and many cousins.

      Calling hours will be held at the FARWELL FUNERAL HOME, 18 Lock Street, Nashua on Wednesday, November 6^th from 4 to 8 p.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated in St. Joseph The Worker Church, 777 West Hollis Street, Nashua, Thursday, November 7^th at 10 a.m. Interment will follow in St. Louis Cemetery. Family and friends are invited to attend. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to help fund Nashua middle schools’ learn to play field hockey program. Please make checks payable to Nashua Athletics and mail to Lisa Gingras at Nashua High School North, 8 Titan Way, Nashua, NH 03063. To leave an online message of condolence, please visit www.farwellfuneralservice.com  

   Monica Ann Tiedemann, 69, of Nashua, wife of Norman P. Tiedemann, passed away Wednesday morning, October 23, 2024 at the Community Hospice House in Merrimack, after a period of declining health.  

   Born in Downingtown, Pennsylvania on October 13, 1955, she was one of ten children of the late William and Elizabeth (Forbes) Lewis. Monica grew up in Glen Gardner, New Jersey where she attended St. Rose of Lima Parochial School and graduated from St. Anthony High School in Trenton, NJ. She furthered her education at Mercer County Community College where she studied Dental Hygiene.  

    Monica worked as a dental assistant for Drs. Vine & Babad in Trenton, NJ and after moving to Nashua, she was the office manager for Amy Stewart Commercial Interiors.

    She was a member of the Souhegan Choir and a communicant of St. Louis de Gonzague Church.

     Members of her family include her husband Norman, whom she married on April 19, 1980 and shared over 44 years together; her children, Norman P. Tiedemann II and his wife Kristina (Sutherland) Tiedemann, and Nicole Tiedemann; a granddaughter, Leiah Tiedemann; her brothers and sisters, Michael Lewis, Marianne Lewis, William Lewis and his wife Patti, Robert Lewis and his wife Rowena, Kenneth Lewis and his wife Theresa, Joanne Lewis, the late Edward Lewis, Helen Dwornitski and her husband Gregory, and Catherine Volponi and her husband Michael; her brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, Richard Tiedemann, MD and his wife Suzanne, Robert Tiedemann, Douglas Tiedemann,  Mary Oros and her husband Ron, Joseph Tiedemann, and Lucinda Weller and her husband Vann; also many nieces and nephews. Monica was also predeceased by three brothers-in-law, Frederick, John and Edward Tiedemann.

      Calling hours will be held at the FARWELL FUNERAL HOME, 18 Lock Street, Nashua on Monday, October 28^th from 4 to 7 p.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated in St. Louis de Gonzague Church, Tuesday, October 29^th at 10 a.m. Family and friends are invited to attend. To leave an online message of condolence, please visit www.farwellfuneralservice.com  

  Gerald Mark Hickox, 65, was born November 13, 1958 in Manchester, NH, the son of the late Dorothy Philbrick Buck and Gerald G. Hickox. Mark passed away suddenly on October 23, 2024.           

   Mark was raised in Nashua, NH, a graduate of Nashua High School South and Daniel Webster College. Mark was a skilled computer technician who thrived to advance the companies that he worked with. Mark would work diligently through Holidays and weekends known to be the employee you could truly depend on.

    Mark was a lover of the outdoors and the environment. Walking sometimes 20 plus miles a week, often seen picking up trash along the way. Mark would recycle, re-use and compost, he wanted to help preserve the White Mountains and Lake Winnisquam as the beautiful places he enjoyed in his youth. Mark was a nostalgic movie watcher and had a passion for History and Politics. You would often find him emersed at the Dover Library. Mark also had a bit of a wild side, attending Grateful Dead concerts and cheering it up with the fans at multiple Celtics games. Mark was even featured on the cover of Time Magazine as a fan of the Celtics.

    Mark was loved by a large family including his stepfather, Harry Buck (deceased); devoted sisters, Judy Parzych and husband Kevin, Betty Jane Gault and husband Dave; his dear brothers, David Buck and his wife Harriet and Daniel Buck (deceased). Several nieces and nephews, Matt Parzych, Jennifer Parzych “God Child” (deceased), Ryan Parzych, Amy Provencher, Adam Gault, Christopher Buck and Jonathan Buck; as well as several cousins, great nieces, great nephews and countless friends.

     In honor of Mark’s beliefs, we will be having a simple burial for the immediate family. In lieu of gift/flowers, please consider donating to the White Mountain Nature Center at https://wmnature.org/product-category/donations/or NH Lakes at https://nhlakes.app.neoncrm.com/forms/donate.

    The Farwell Funeral Service, 18 Lock Street, Nashua is assisting the family with arrangements. To leave an online message of condolence, please visit www.farwellfuneralservice.com

Patricia Ellen Powell, 74, of Merrimack, NH  passed away on Tuesday, October 22, 2024 after a period of declining health. Patty was born on September 6, 1950.  She was the fifth of eight children born to Max Leon Powell and Madeline Lacasse Powell.  Patty was predeceased by her parents and survived by her seven siblings.

Donald A. Powell (Joyce) of St. Petersburg, FL; Max Leon Powell III (Suzanne) of Southern Pines, NC; Margaret Lawliss (William deceased) South Burlington, VT; David N. Powell, Grand Isle, VT; Thomas K. Powell (Maureen), Casco, ME;  Marilyn Rand (Kenneth), Farmington, NH; and Judith P. Dunn (Anothony Treanor), South Hero, VT.

The Powell Family moved to Redding CT from Vermont when Patty was in 8^th grade.  She attended Art school in Virginia when she finished high school in 1968.  Bur her journey soon changed and in 1971 she returned to Burlington VT with four of her siblings and opened the first of what would be six New England based Mexican restaurants, Tortilla Flat.  After opening a second restaurant in Stowe VT, a third restaurant was opened in Merrimack, NH and in 1974 Patty settled in Merrimack and that became her home.

It was evident from an early age that Patty was blessed with the gift of humor.  If you believe a sense of humor is a sign of intelligence, Patty was a genius.  It was her humor, down to earth laid-back style that helped to establish “The Flats” in Merrimack as a favorite local restaurant (and lounge!) for great food, great drinks and lots of fun.  Her love of art and artistic talent was a huge part of the decor at Tortilla Flat that established it as an inviting and unique restaurant in the early 1970’s.  Patty was the manager of Tortilla Flat in Merrimack for decades and eventually passed on that role to various nieces and nephews.

Patty started her own family in Merrimack.  Her children and grandchildren were the greatest joy of her life.  Her love was unconditional, nonjudgmental and endless.  Whenever asked about one of her children or grandchildren her response was always “they are awesome”.  She was proud of their accomplishments and was supportive when they struggled. There was no limit to what she would do for them.

In addition to her brothers and sisters, Patty is also survived by two children, Amy Demers Fredette (fiancé Jimmy Major) and Max James Belanger and pre-deceased by her daughter, Jennifer Blair Demers. She also leaves behind four grandchildren, Talia Tamposi, Camden Fredette, Connor Fredette and Cayden Fredette all from Merrimack, NH. Her extended family includes many nieces, nephews and cousins. Patty also leaves behind her dear cats Skipper (climbed in an open window 12 years ago and never left) and Sadie.  They have been wonderful companions to Patty.

As Patty’s mobility declined over the last few years and she spent more time at home she returned to her love of painting, became a wiz at Jeopardy and anything on Game Show network and most recently became a huge Boston Celtics fan.  She loved watching the Celtics with her son Max.

There are so many people that have crossed paths with Patty over her lifetime.  All of them are part of a very lucky group.  Her full and honest laugh would draw you in and lighten your day. She was selfless and never dwelled on her hardships. Her desires in life were simple.  Being surrounded by her plants, cats and family made her happy and content.  Patty also had a strong faith that brought her peace and comfort.

Patty’s family would like to thank her two friends Sacha and Sandy, and Home Health and Hospice Care for their home care provided to Patty over the last several years.  Your love, kindness and respect made such a difference in the quality of her final years, and you allowed her to continue to live independently.

We would also like to thank Premier Health and Rehab staff, Southern NH Medical Center, and Home Health and Hospice Care for the gentle care provided to Patty in her last days, and the support and guidance provided to her family as we said goodbye to our beloved Patty.  She will be missed beyond words.

The Family and friends are invited to a celebration of Patty’s life on Sunday, November 17, 2024, at Tortilla Flat in Merrimack NH starting at 12 noon. Donations may be sent in her memory to the Greater Nashua YMCA www.nmymca   The Farwell Funeral Service, 18 Lock Street, Nashua, assisted the family with arrangements. To leave an online message of condolence, please visit www.farwellfuneralservice.com

Lieutenant Colonel (Retired) Daniel A. Tracy, III, 79, of Nashua, passed away at his home, Tuesday morning, October 22, 2024, after fighting aggressive Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS).  He is survived by his beloved wife of 57 years, Susanne M. Tracy (Koszalka), daughter Lisa M. DesLauriers (Todd), of Manassas, VA, son’s Michael E. Tracy, of Blakeslee, PA, Scott D. Tracy (Jodie), of Greenfield, NH, and daughter, Erin A. Racca (Justin), of Londonderry, NH; nine grandchildren; and six siblings.

Born in Buffalo, New York, July 31, 1945, the eldest of eight children of the late Daniel A. Tracy, Jr. and Mary J. (Tronolone) Tracy. After graduating from high school, “Dan” earned his Bachelor’s degree from Niagara University, and a Master’s in Business Administration.

In January 1967, during the Vietnam War, Dan was drafted and enlisted in the United States Army and went on to serve his country for 23 years, culminating his prestigious military career at Fort Devens, MA.

A resident of Nashua for over 40 years, Dan enjoyed a second 20-year career with Prudential Insurance as an Investment Adviser and Broker until his retirement in 2023.  Dan was a founding member of Sky Meadow Country Club and you could often find him enjoying a round of golf with his family and friends. He is fondly nicknamed, “the Mayor” by his children, because he would often be found making his rounds and engaging all he greeted. He was a beacon of light, and would be heard before seen, with his infectious laugh, outgoing personality and gregarious humor. A lifelong and avid Buffalo Bills fan, you often found him representing his team and hopeful for the Bills progression to the Superbowl. Dan was fixture in the Nashua community and served as a communicant of St. Christopher’s Catholic Church.

Calling hours will be held at the FARWELL FUNERAL HOME, 18 Lock Street, Nashua on Tuesday, October 29^th from 4 to 7 p.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated in St. Christopher Church, 62 Manchester Street, Nashua, Wednesday, October 30^th at 10 a.m. Full Army Funeral Honors and interment will follow at the New Hampshire State Veterans Cemetery in Boscawen at 12:30 p.m. Family and friends are invited to attend. Donations may be made to https://www.als.org/. To leave an online message of condolence, please visit www.farwellfuneralservice.com 

   James B. Creech, 79, of Merrimack, NH and formerly of Arlington, MA, passed away Friday morning, October 18, 2024 at Elliot Hospital in Manchester after a brief period of declining health.          

   A resident of Merrimack for many years, he was born in Arlington, Massachusetts on September 19, 1945, son of the late James C. and Eleanor (Govoni) Creech.

   Jim was educated in Arlington schools and enlisted in Navy at the age of 17. He served aboard the USS Okinawa during the Vietnam War. Following his honorable discharge, Jim worked as a sales representative in the advertising office of the Lowell Sun for several years until he retired.

   Jim enjoyed photography and fishing in his leisure time. In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his wife of over 30 years, Arlene M. “Terry” (Avallone) Creech, who passed away February 19, 2019; and his brother, Crawford Creech of Epsom, NH.

    Members of his family include his sisters, Donna Greenhalgh of Nashua, NH and Patricia DiFazio of Moultonborough, NH; a step-daughter, Lisa Stanton of Peabody, MA; nieces and nephews, Deborah Sgro, Robert DiFazio, Lee Greenhalgh, Crawford Creech and Diane Avallone; also many grandnieces and grandnephews.

     A Graveside service and Navy Honors will take place at the New Hampshire State Veterans Cemetery, 110 Daniel Webster Highway in Boscawen, Thursday, November 14^th at 11 a.m. Friends are invited to attend. To leave an online message of condolence, please visit www.farwellfuneralservice.com Arrangements are in the care of the Farwell Funeral Service, 18 Lock Street, Nashua.

   Leonie A. “Lee” (Cote) Dublow, 91, formerly of Gillis Street, Nashua, widow of Anthony J. “Buddy” Dublow, Jr., passed away Thursday, August 24, 2023 at the University of Kentucky Hospital in Lexington, KY.          

    Born in Nashua on September 8, 1931, she was a daughter of the late Robert C. and Celedase (DesRocher) Cote. Educated in local schools, Lee graduated high school and earned her Associates degree in nursing.  As a longtime registered nurse, Lee worked at both local hospitals and nursing homes.

    In addition to her parents and husband, Lee was predeceased by four brothers, Maurice I. Cote, Robert L. Cote, Richard A. Cote and Paul R. Cote; and four sisters, Monique Grondin, Rita Cote, Isadora Cote and Lucille Shurkus.

   Surviving members of her family include her sons and daughters-in-law, David A. and Gracia Dublow of Toronto, Ontario Canada and Brian J. and Georgia Dublow of Fort Kent, ME; granddaughters, Gillean L. Dublow, Genevieve Dublow, Harley M. Dublow and Keeneland M. R. Dublow; a sister, Jenne C. Kennedy of Manchester, NH; also nieces and nephews.

   A Graveside service will take place in St. Louis Cemetery, 752 West Hollis Street, Nashua, Saturday, October 19^th at noon. Family and friends are invited to attend.

To leave an online message of condolence, please visit www.farwellfuneralservice.com Arrangements are in the care of the FARWELL FUNERAL SERVICE, 18 Lock Street, Nashua.

Sandra Hemming Cole, formerly of Yarmouth Port, MA, passed away peacefully on Sunday, October 13, 2024, after declining health from the effects of Alzheimer’s.  She was 87.

Born on March 9, 1937, in NYC, Sandy was the daughter of Raymond V. and Doris (Dottie) Hemming.  They moved to Columbus, Ohio, and eventually settled in Ithaca, NY.  Childhood piano lessons became a lifelong passion for Sandy.  She studied pipe organ at Cornell University where she graduated in 1958, Phi Beta Kappa, with a BA in Music.  Sandy started a 60-year career as a church organist in Ithaca.  She also taught elementary school from 1958-1962 in Ithaca while earning her MS in Education at SUNY Cortland.

In 1967 she moved with her young family and former spouse, Ernest J Cole, Jr, to Yarmouth Port. She fostered her passion for music becoming the organist for St Mary’s Episcopal Church in Barnstable.  Sandy enjoyed her time as church organist there for 33 years, a tenure that included the installation of the Karl Wilhelm Pipe Organ in 1986.  Her daughters were raised within the Family Choir and many lifelong friendships were formed.  After retiring from St Mary’s in 2000, Sandy enjoyed spending time with her grandchildren as well as international travel.  She returned to the organ bench in 2005 at Church of the Holy Spirit in Orleans where she continued until retiring in 2018.

Sandy continued her teaching career as a part time music instructor at Cape Cod Community College from 1968-1975 as well as Assistant Director and Accompanist of the Concert Choir from 1975-1981. Sandy returned to the classroom in 1981 with the Barnstable School District to teach Gr. K-6 general music and choral ensembles until her retirement in 1999. Well known within the music community on the Cape, Sandy accompanied many choirs and theatrical productions.  She was a member of the American Guild of Organists and served as the Chapter Dean from 1978-1980.

The most important thing to Sandy was family.  She relished every moment visiting her grandchildren, attending their many performances, and hosting them each summer.  Her dear friends from church, “The Belles of St Mary’s”, and her longtime neighborhood friends kept a busy social schedule.  Eventually Sandy relocated to Pepperell, MA, to live with her daughter due to health issues.  She moved into RiverCourt Residences of Groton, MA, in 2022 where she remained until her passing.  Her family wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude for the excellent care and genuine love she received from the staff.  Ascend Hospice assisted during her final years, establishing comfort with dignity.

Sandy was a true matriarch for her family leaving behind a legacy of music, family traditions, celebrations, and laughter which lives on strong in each member.  She is survived by a sister, Penny and her husband John Tuthill of Richardson, TX; two daughters, Jennifer and her husband Charles Ellars of Pepperell, and Amy Cole of Yarmouth Port.  She has two nephews and one niece who live with their families in Texas.  Her legacy lives on strongest through her three grandchildren, all professional musicians.  A memorial service will be planned on Cape Cod at a future date.  In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Sandra Cole’s memory to Ascend Hospice & Palliative Care, 352 Belmont St, Worcester, MA, 01604 or to the Alzheimer’s Association:  http://act.alz.org/goto/Sandy_Cole

The Farwell Funeral Service, 18 Lock Street, Nashua, is assisting the family with arrangements. To leave an online message of condolence, please visit www.farwellfuneralservice.com

   Mary Agnes (Seaver) Kirby, passed away on Monday, October 7, 2024 at the age of 94. Mary was born September 29, 1930 in Arlington, Massachusetts, a daughter of the late George R. and Mary J. “Molly” (Ahearn) Seaver. In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her sisters, Margaret Hayes Bell and Florence Mulkern.

   She is survived by her husband Ed of Nashua, NH and her brother George R. Seaver, Jr. and his wife Nancy of Alexandria, VA.

    Mary was raised in Arlington, MA and attended Arlington public schools. Mary went on to graduate from Forsyth School of Dental Hygiene in Boston. Mary worked as a Dental Hygienist until she chose to become an Army Officer’s wife when she married 1^st Lt. Edward J. Kirby of Brookline, MA on August 21, 1954. She traveled to Germany, Okinawa, and numerous stateside locations as she accompanied Ed on his 23 – year Army Career.

     In addition to her role as an Officer’s wife, she was the mother of and raised six beautiful children, Mary Beckette (Fred), Kathy Weeden (Wes), Eddie Kirby (Joy), Patty Ekins (Jim), Mike Kirby and Alison Kirby. Upon Ed’s retirement in 1974 the family settled in Nashua, NH. Mary has fourteen grandchildren and eleven great-grandchildren.

     Mary was a devout Catholic who had a strong devotion to Saint Gerard and the Blessed Mother. She enjoyed attending daily Mass. Mary loved music and dancing and had a great social life with her neighborhood group, the Gourmet group, and the Kirby Sibs.

    The family wishes to express its heartfelt appreciation to the exceptional staff at The Epsom Healthcare Center and Bayada Hospice who provided Mary with exceptional comfort and care.

     Calling hours will be held at the FARWELL FUNERAL HOME, 18 Lock Street, Nashua on Friday, October 18^th from 4 to 7 p.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated in St. Christopher Church, 62 Manchester Street, Nashua, Saturday, October 19^th at 10 a.m. Interment will follow in Edgewood Cemetery. Family and friends are invited to attend. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Mary’s memory can be made to the Epsom Healthcare Center, 901 Suncook Hwy, Epsom, NH 03234. To leave an online message of condolence, please visit www.farwellfuneralservice.com

Frank S. Ulcickas, 81, passed away October 3, 2024, at St. Joseph Hospital, Nashua, where he was born February 24, 1943, the son of Simon and Mary (Legatavicius) Ulcickas. He was educated in local schools and graduated fourth in his class from Nashua High School, Class of 1961.

While at Nashua High, Frank distinguished himself as both scholar and athlete. He played football, basketball, and baseball for iconic coaches Charles “Buzz” Harvey and Anthony “Tony” Marandos, both of whom he considered second fathers. Frank, along with his teammates, brought home state championships in all three sports.

At Harvard University, Frank continued his athletic career, playing freshman football and baseball. He played end position varsity football for three years; varsity baseball his sophomore year and expanded his love for sports by playing rugby his junior and senior years. Frank was also active in the Hasty Pudding Club and Pi Eta Club.

After graduating from Harvard in 1965, Frank studied at the University of Paris, Sorbonne, 1965-1966. He then entered the US Army Officer Candidate School, graduating with honors at Ft. Eustis, VA in 1967.

Frank served his entire tour as the Principal Assistant to the 46th Group, Security, Plans and Operations Officer. Frank was also selected as an aide to the National Strategy Seminar at the US Army War College.

Following his Army service, Frank became involved in civic and community programs, while at the same time keeping active in athletics. For many enjoyable years, he played Men’s slow-pitch softball, most notably on the Stan’s Place Team. He was instrumental in bringing the Holiday Basketball Festival Tournament to the city and held various positions on the NHIAA Executive Council and NH Softball Association Executive Committee. Frank was one of the founders of the Friends of Nashua High Athletics and a two-time inductee in the Nashua’s Legends of Holman Hall of Fame. Frank was a member of the American Legion Baseball Committee and worked hard to bring the New Hampshire Senior Legion Baseball Tournament to Nashua’s Holman Stadium and served as Tournament Chairman for over a decade. In 2019, he received a certificate from American Legion National Headquarters for his achievement of 50 continuous years of membership in James E. Coffey Post 3, Nashua, NH.

Frank took great pride and pleasure from his civic activities in Nashua. He was a member of the Nashua Board of Education for six years. He was on the Board of Directors of the Boys Club of Nashua and a member of its Board of Incorporators. Frank was also a Director of the Nashua Senior Center and a member of the Committee for the Elm St.

Auditorium. Frank was an active fund-raiser for many of the programs with which he was involved. As part of a team, Frank’s photos are included in the “Moments in New Hampshire” art installation in the lobby of the NH State Liquor store on Coliseum Ave. in Nashua.

One of the founding members of the local Lithuanian-American Cultural group LABAS, held the position of President of the group and worked with the concert committee. He coordinated local celebrations for Lithuanian Independence Day, and met with the team of the “Global True Lithuania” website, Destination Lithuanian America 2023, to provide historic perspective on local Lithuanian-Americans. Frank was proud of his Lithuanian heritage, he taught himself to read and write Lithuanian, and travelled to Lithuania several times to find and visit family.

Frank worked as a financial advisor for Prudential-Bache, A.G. Edwards and Wells Fargo investment firms for a total of 44 years.

He met Candace “Candy” (McQuaid) when they were young teenagers. They married and loved each other for 56 years. Of all Frank’s many accomplishments, the ones of which he was most proud were his late son, Simon David, his daughter-in-law Anne-Marie and grandson Darius.

Frank was pre-deceased by his parents, his son, Simon, his two older brothers Simon and Peter and their wives. He is survived by his wife, Candy, his daughter-in-law Anne-Marie and grandson Darius of London, England; his brother-in-law David F. McQuaid of Nashua; nieces Anne Garrymore of Green Brier, W. VA; Marianne Ulcickas-Yood of Newton, MA; Dorothy Ulcickas of Mansfield, MA; nephews John Ulcickas and his wife Cindi of Nashua; James Ulcickas and wife Julie Ann of Santa Anna, CA, cousins and many friends.

Calling hours will be held at the FARWELL FUNERAL HOME, 18 Lock Street, Nashua, on Friday, October 25^th from 4 to 6 p.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated in St. Patrick Church, 29 Spring Street, Nashua, Saturday, October 26^th at 10 a.m. Family and friends are invited to attend. The family has requested that in lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Tory C. Marandos Foundation c/o Southern New Hampshire University, 2500 North River Road, Manchester, NH 03106 or to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105. To leave an online message of condolence, please visit www.farwellfuneralservice.com

   Mary Jane (Bradley) McLellan, 76, of Hillsboro and formerly of Litchfield and Nashua, passed away Tuesday evening, October 1, 2024 at Concord Hospital. Mary Jane is the widow of Robert E. McLellan.          

   Born in Nashua on February 23, 1948, she was a daughter of the late Maurice A. and Dora C. (McLellan) Bradley.  Educated in local schools, Mary Jane was a graduate of Nashua High School Class of 1965.

    A resident of Hillsboro since November of 2023, Mary Jane previously made her home in Litchfield for 29 years. Mary Jane was a former member and officer of the Loyal Order of Moose Lodge #110 and a member of the Cribbage League of the Knights of Columbus Council 122, both of Nashua.

   Mary Jane was predeceased by her husband Robert, who passed away June 4, 2016. They were married June 20, 1987 and shared 29 years together. She was also predeceased by her brothers, Richard Bradley and his wife Cookie, Paul Bradley, William Bradley and Thomas Bradley; and her sisters, Cora Phillips and Gladys Jacques.

   Members of her family include her daughter and son-in-law, Mary Beth and Scott Bishop of Litchfield; two grandchildren, Jacob and Alicesen Bishop; sister-in-law, Claudette Bradley of Concord; her dear, sweet friend, Michelle Eastman, whom she loved; also many nieces, nephews and cousins.

    A celebration of her life will be held in the FARWELL FUNERAL HOME, 18 Lock Street, Nashua, Monday, November 18th from 10 to 11 a.m. followed by interment in Edgewood Cemetery. Friends are invited to attend. Donations may be made in her memory to the Humane Society for Greater Nashua, 24 Ferry Road, Nashua, NH 03064. To leave an online message of condolence, please visit www.farwellfuneralservice.com  

  HER MEMORIAL SERVICE WILL BE HELD ON SATURDAY, OCTOBER 26TH AT 10 A.M. AT THE FIRST CHURCH, ONE CONCORD STREET, NASHUA, FOLLOWED BY A RECEPTION IN THE CHURCH HALL. FRIENDS ARE INVITED TO ATTEND.

   The Rev. Dr. Vera M. Wingate, 81, of Hollis, NH, wife of Charles E. Wingate, Jr., MD, passed away at her home, Thursday, July 25, 2024, after a period of declining health. 

    Born in Princeton, Texas on March 12, 1943, she was a daughter of the late Felan Randall and Vernice Lillian (Tyler) Montgomery. Vera was a graduate of Princeton High School, Princeton, Texas Class of 1961 and attended various courses in business colleges in Dallas, TX. Vera earned a Bachelor’s degree in Human Services from New Hampshire College in Hooksett in 1988. She continued her education at Andover Newton Theological School, Newton Center, MA with a Masters degree in Divinity in 1990 and received her Doctor of Ministry from Bangor Theological, Bangor, Maine in 2001.

    A resident of Hollis, NH since 1975, Vera also made her home in Nashua in 1974, after residing in Harrisburg, PA, Alexandria and Richmond, VA. From 1974-77 Vera was the Office Manager and Ophthalmic Medical Assistant for her husband, Charles E. Wingate, Jr, M.D., as he set up his ophthalmology practice.

     In 1990, Vera became Pastor of Bethany Chapel Community Church, U.C.C. and served there until 2013. She then served as Interim Ministry at the Hooksett Congregational Church, UCC in Hooksett, NH until 2019. Vera led services and preached as pulpit supply at various churches in New Hampshire, mostly in the Hillsborough Association. Her last pulpit supply was at The First Church, Nashua on August 25, 2019.

    She led the Bethany Chapel as it claimed its history while preserving its location, as it became a community meeting place in suppers and celebrations, as it proclaimed ministry in baptisms, communion, weddings, and in memorial celebrations of life. Vera was president of the Manchester Clergy Association for two years in the mid 1990s. She was a member of the Citizen’s Advisory Board, New Hampshire State Women’s Prison for ten years until 2008.

     Vera was a Prison Ministry Advocate in the New Hampshire Conference, UCC, 2000-2006; Hillsborough Association Scribe (NHC, UCC) ten years ending early 2000s; the Hillsborough Association Executive Committee, two years in mid 1990s; and the Hillsborough Association Committee on Church and Ministry early to mid 2000s. She was the recipient of the Daughters of the American Revolution Preservation Award, October 2005 and the Good Samaritan Award from Pastoral Counseling Services, Manchester, NH in 2009. Vera also served on various committees in the New Hampshire Conference, UCC late 1980s-2006.

     Her personal interests included crocheting, crossword and word search puzzles, drawing and coloring artwork, caring for her grandchildren who gave her such pride and joy; and celebrating birthdays and holidays with her family.

Members of her family include her husband Charles, whom she married on June 15, 1968 at Dickerson Chapel, Dallas, TX and celebrated their 56^th anniversary in 2024; her children, Charles Edward Wingate, III and his wife Jessica Dery Wingate of Windham, NH, and Caroline Endress Wingate Labrecque and her husband Wayne A. Labrecque of Nashua, NH; her grandchildren, Bradley Charles Wingate, Parker Raymond Wingate, Charlotte Wingate Labrecque and Cailyn Wingate Labrecque; her four siblings, Don Henry Montgomery of Sherman, TX, Kathleen Montgomery of Ravenna, TX, Carolyn Montgomery Dunn and her husband Jackie of Brashear, TX and the late Kenneth Randall Montgomery, who passed away in June 2018; with numerous nieces and nephews. Robert M. Wingate and wife, Patricia Wingate; Dr. Joseph L. Wingate and wife, Ada Wingate; and numerous nieces and nephews.

A private graveside service will be held for her family. A Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, October 26th at 10 a.m. in The First Church, One Concord Street, Nashua, followed by a reception in the church hall. Friends are invited to attend. To leave an online message of condolence, please visit www.farwellfuneralservic.ecom . Arrangements are in the care of the FARWELL FUNERAL SERVICE, 18 Lock Street, Nashua.  In lieu of flowers memorial donations can be made to Bethany Chapel Community Church, 54 Newbury Road Manchester, NH 03103; The First Church, 1 Concord Street Nashua, NH 03064; The St. Joseph Hospital Cancer Center,  172 Kinsley Street Nashua, NH 03060.