Aspinock, Eastford & beyond
The Last Green Valley, Inc. (TLGV) has awarded $15,000 in grants to six local organizations to preserve, protect, interpret, promote or market historic and cultural resources. Since TLGV began awarding historic and cultural grants in 2003, more than $1 million has been disseminated to local nonprofits and towns in the National Heritage Corridor. For many organizations, the funding is the necessary step toward completion of their projects.
“The history of The Last Green Valley is rich and varied,” said Lois Bruinooge, executive director of TLGV. “These projects are a way to ensure local history is passed on to future generations to enjoy and learn from.”
TLGV awards grants based on a competitive application process. Every project is vetted and evaluated for its potential benefit to the region. Every successful grant must be matched 1:1 by cash or in-kind contributions.
The following grants were awarded:
The Aspinock Historical Society of Putnam was awarded $4,000 for its ongoing restoration of Cady Copp Cottage, the oldest standing building in Putnam on Liberty Highway. The grant is part of an almost $16,000 project to restore the building. The project would help restore portions of the outside of the building, protecting it from the elements and wildlife, and, also, making Cady Copp Cottage suitable for educational programs .
The Historical Society is currently raising another $15,000 to be used on the Cady Copp Cottage. Phase I stabilized the supporting sills and columns and now the society turns its attention to windows, walls and doors.
The Eastford Historical Society was awarded $2,185 to preserve an original 1868 map, create a digital image, a preservation master and create a reproduction for display and handling by researchers. The map, “Map of Mill Properties belonging to Joseph B. Latham,” depicts the extensive holdings in the center of Phoenixville, a section of Eastford, in intricate detail. The map was an integral resource for Old Sturbridge Village when it conducted research in Phoenixville in the early 1980s.
The Lisbon Trails Committee was awarded $2,060 as part of the ongoing restoration work at Historic Burnham Tavern. The trails committee proposes to design signage for the property and further develop the trail system on the property, including trail mapping and signage with appropriate heritage information regarding the property.
The Thompson Historical Society was awarded $1,680 for the purchase of equipment to aid in ongoing digitization of its extensive historical collections. The project allows the historical society to preserve its physical documents while creating an efficient and effective inventory and catalog of historical information.
Thompson Together was awarded $3,075 for the restoration of seven of Thompson’s historic cemeteries. The cemeteries – Carpenter, Joslin, Porter, Bates, Jacobs, Fabyan and Dike – will be assessed and plans for restoration at each developed. The work will include general maintenance to the cemetery grounds and the resetting and repair of tombstones.
The Windham 4-H Foundation was awarded $2,000 for the repair of a historic fireplace and chimney in the main lodge of the Pomfret Center Camp. The 40-foot chimney serves fireplaces on both floors of the lodge and was completed in 1955 by local masons, the Wilcox brothers. The need for flue, ventilation and other repairs means the fireplaces have not been used recently for 4-H traditions dating back to the start of the camp. TLGV funding will join funding from the CT Trust for Historic Preservation and camp funding to complete the project.
Elaine Nelson, project director for the 4-H Foundation’s Chimney and Fireplace restoration, said “our all-volunteer foundation works very hard to maintain more than 40 buildings on our property. Finding resources to fund things we cannot do with volunteer labor is a constant battle. The saying carved over the mantle says it all ‘1954, Dedicated to Youth through the Generosity of Many.’ The financial support for this project from the Last Green Valley is greatly appreciated. It is yet another tangible representation of the spirit of generosity that thankfully is part of our foundation’s culture and legacy going back to its 1954 beginnings.”
PRIDE gets $125k
PUTNAM — The Putnam Partnership to Reduce the Influence of Drugs for Everyone (PRIDE) was awarded a federal Drug Free Communities (DFC) Support Program grant totaling $125,000.
Nationwide, the grants totaled $89 million and are used to provide local community coalitions funding to prevent youth substance use, including prescription drugs, marijuana, tobacco, and alcohol.
Putnam PRIDE will use the grant to involve and engage their local community to prevent substance use among youth.
“Our goal is to make Putnam, a safe and drug-free place for our youth,” said Romeo Blackmar, PRIDE coordinator. “Prevention is a powerful tool to counteract drug use in our community, and we will use this funding to help youth in Putnam make healthy choices about substance use.”
Prescription drug abuse prevention is one of the core measures of effectiveness for local DFC coalitions, and coalitions nationwide have led innovative opioid prevention initiatives. DFC’s 2016 National Evaluation End-of-Year Report found that at least 97 percent of middle school and 93 percent of high school youth report that they have not illicitly used prescription drugs in the past 30 days in DFC communities.
Additionally, perception of risk of illicit prescription drug use was generally high (80-84%). The report also found that perceived risk of illicit use of prescription drugs was very similar to perceived risk of tobacco use (80-83 percent), and was higher than for both alcohol (69-73 percent) and marijuana use (53-73 percent). Finally, the report detailed that peer disapproval of illicit prescription drug use increased significantly for both age groups within all DFC coalitions.
Aime J. Beausoleil,
WWII vet
BROOKLYN — Aime J. Beausoleil, 93, of Brooklyn, died Sept. 11, 2017.. He was born Nov. 14, 1923, in Manchester, N.H., son of Israel and Lydia (Lavoie) Beausoleil.
After graduating from high school in Boston, he enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corp in August 1941. He fought during WWII in the Pacific Theater and was wounded in combat during the battle for Iwo Jima. Only the bravery of his fellow Marines saved Aime’s life that day as he was rescued and brought to Hawaii to recuperate. Upon discharge from the Marine Corp in 1946 Aime came to Connecticut, where his parents had moved. There he met and married his wife with whom he would build his future life. They were married Oct. 23, 1948, in St. James Church. His wife Lorraine (Dutremble) died in 1994. Together they bought a home in Brooklyn, where they raised their four children. Aime loved this home and would live there for 65 years.
Aime was a correction officer for the State of Connecticut for 24 years and also was a farmer. Upon retiring he spent winters in Winter Haven, Fla., for 20 years. Amie was an avid golfer and a fan of the Red Sox and the Patriots.
He leaves his children Patricia Wiggs (Richard) of St. Augustine, Fla.; Dennis Beausoleil (Terri) of Griswold, Phillis Beausoleil of Palm Coast, Fla.; Deborah Beausoleil of Old Saybrook; grandchildren Jonathan Manning of California, Lauren Lyn of New Hartford, Jessica Cormier of Chilcoot of California, Darren Beausoleil of Noank, Danielle Beausoleil of Noank, and Caitlon Stedman of Westbrook; great-grandchildren Gavin Lyn and Kylie Lyn of New Hartford; his brother Roger Beausoleil (Eva) of Danielson.
A Mass of Christian Burial was Sept. 16 at St. James Church, Danielson, with burial with military honors later in Holy Cross Cemetery, Danielson. Donations: Veteran’s charity of the donor’s choice. Gagnon and Costello Funeral Home, 33 Reynolds St., Danielson.
Bruce Allen Tefft,
Navy vet
EASTFORD — Bruce A. Tefft, 69, of Union Rd. died Sept. 1, 2017, at home. Bruce was born in 1948 in Putnam, the son of the late Robert and Dorothy (Weeks) Tefft.
Bruce enlisted in the U.S. Navy in 1965 and lived in the San Francisco area. He earned his bachelor’s in sociology and continued his education in 1987 by attending the Quinebaug Valley Community College in Danielson.
Bruce enjoyed working with his hands and took pride in everything that he did. He was self-employed and worked with other contractors in the construction field as a carpenter and painter. He also worked for Putnam Furniture in Putnam. Bruce wanted to give back to his community and worked for many social services agencies as a teacher and a social worker. This work included teaching for the New England Adult Education Program and Quinebaug Valley Youth and Family Program. He was an assistant teacher for the Quinebaug Valley Community College Welfare to Work Program and worked as a social worker for NECT. In addition, he worked for the Community Development Corporation for five years.
Bruce enjoyed fishing, gardening and had a love for animals, especially his pot belly pig, who he raised for 14 years until his passing in 2016.
In addition to his long-time companion of 43 years, Debra A. Billings of Eastford, he leaves four sisters Nancy Hattin of E. Thompson, Patricia Landry of Lake Haverson, Ariz., Robin Faford-Brown of Almet, Calif., and Gemma Blain of Putnam. Bruce is predeceased by his sisters, Judy Eckelson, Jill Cote and Susan Tefft.
Donations: NECCOG Animal Services, PO Box 759, Dayville, CT 06241. Gilman Funeral Home and Crematory, 104 Church St., Putnam.
Henry A. Borders,
WWII vet
DANIELSON — Henry Albert Borders, 92 of Danielson, died unexpectedly Sept. 14, 2017, at Hartford Hospital. He was the husband of Miriam (Baribeau) Borders. They were married Dec. 13, 1977. His first wife, Florence (Gilbeault) Borders, died in 1960.
Henry was born June 21, 1925, in Saugus, Mass., son of the late Snow and Marjorie (Lathrop) Borders.
He was a veteran of WWII serving with the U.S. Army.
Henry worked as a mason most of his life. He had worked over the years for Constantino Brothers, Mullery’s, both formerly of Providence, and Louie Tetreault Building as a mason, and later for Preferred Plastics. He was a member of the Danielson American Legion Post 21. Henry had a passion for restoring cars and he enjoyed playing practical jokes on family and friends.
In addition to his wife Miriam, he leaves his children, Albert Borders of Killingly, Gayle Krzywda of New Hampshire, Gregory Borders Sr. of Killingly, Keith Borders of Austin, Texas, George Bessette Jr. of Killingly, Joanne Demars of Killingly, Michele Integlia of Dudley, Lisa Wood of Killingly; 12 grandchildren, 18 great-grandchildren and two great-great-grandchildren He was predeceased by his first wife Florence in 1960, his son Stephen Borders in 1960 and his daughter Beverly Bessetet in 1994, and a great-great-grandchild Jordan Fonseca in 2011, his siblings Lou, Lillian Josephine, Dorothy, Frederick and Warren.
The Funeral Service was Sept. 18 at Gagnon and Costello Funeral Home, 33 Reynolds St., Danielson, with burial in Phillips Cemetery, Foster, with military honors.
John M. Fitzgerald,
Vietnam war vet
N. GROSVENORDALE — John M. Fitzgerald, 75, died Sept. 15, 2017, in Day Kimball Hospital. He was the husband of Renée (Bast) Fitzgerald for 28 years. Born in 1942 in Hartford, he was the son of the late James & Florence (Marshall) Fitzgerald.
John worked as a tool & form grinder for Spirol International for 38 years. He graduated St. Mary School in East Hartford and served as an altar boy in St. Mary Church. He served in the National Guard during the Vietnam war.
Although he failed music class in school, John taught himself how to read music and play the steel guitar and Dobro. His love of music helped foster many great friendships. He was a member of the New England Country Music Club and played in several local country music bands. He used his musical talent to help raise money for many great causes.
He loved spending time with his family and friends having meaningful conversations, good food and good laughs. He enjoyed quiet times on his deck watching nature around him with his wife Renée and dog Bella. He also was interested in astronomy, history and aircraft.
In addition to his wife, he leaves his daughters, Tena Rockatansky (Max) of Sterling, and Jeannine Fournier (Joe) of Bellingham, Mass.; his sister Dorothy Pedneault (Gerry) of E. Hampton; five grandchildren, Jesse, Seth, Jaydine, Sarena and Linzy; two great-grandchildren, Liam and Olivia; and his dog Bella.
Visitation is from 5 to 8 p.m. Sept. 20 in Gilman Funeral Home, 104 Church St, Putnam. The funeral will assemble at 9 a.m. Sept. 21 at the funeral home followed by a Funeral Service at 10 in the funeral home. Burial with military honors will follow in West Thompson Cemetery.
Sr. Rita Marie Quintal
Sr. Rita Marie Quintal, 95, a member of the Daughters of the Holy Spirit, died Sept. 11, 2017, at St. Joseph Living Center in Windham.
Born Marie Eva Rita Quintal Aug. 16, 1922, in Lawrence, Mass., she was the daughter of Narcisse and Bertha (Bolduc) Quintal. She entered religious life in Putnam at the Holy Spirit Provincial House there in 1938 and made her religious profession in 1943. She was then known as Sr. Bertha de Jesus.
She taught in elementary schools operated by Daughters of the Holy Spirit in Massachusetts, upstate New York, Connecticut and Vermont from 1943-1976. In 1977 she took a 2-year course in Fashion & Design in Boston in preparation for teaching sewing. Following this she put her knowledge of sewing to use in Springfield, Mass., where she taught sewing at Casa Cristo Rey and in Waterbury in 1978. In 1979 she returned to Boston as a student and from 1980-84 she worked at various ministries at St. Joseph Guest House in New Haven, in upstate New York and in Woodstock.
In 1985 she worked as a homemaker for Kelly Healthcare in Lawrence. From 1986-94 she worked as a seamstress for Ben’s Uniforms, Amesbury, Mass., O’Donnell’s in Newport, R.I., and So-Fro Fabric in Middletown, R.I. In 1996 she moved back to Putnam and worked as a nurse’s aide part time and from 1997 she taught sewing. In January of 2014, she retired to the Provincial House and in August of 2016 she transferred to St. Joseph Living Center in Windham.
She leaves a sister Mrs. Theresa Avard of New Hampshire; nieces and nephews, grand nieces and nephews as well as her spiritual family,
her sisters in community, the Consecrated Seculars and the DHS Associates.
The Mass of Christian Burial was Sept. 15 the Provincial House chapel with burial St. Mary Cemetery. Donations: DHS Retirement Fund, Holy Spirit Provincial House, 72 Church St., Putnam, CT 06260. Gilman Funeral Home, 104 Church St., Putnam.
William B. Grinold
WOODSTOCK — William (Bill) B. Grinold, 80, of Roseland Park Road, formerly of Granby, died Sept. 15, 2017, at home. For more than 35 years, he was the husband of Joyce A. (Ledden) Grinold. Born in 1937 in Hartford, he was the son of the late Raymond W. and Cleo (Costello) Grinold.
After graduating from Bryant College in Providence, Bill joined his father and brother at Grinold Auto Parts of Hartford where he rose to become an executive. Upon the business’ sale, as president he helped grow Grinold - O’Brien Sales, Inc. of Walpole, Mass., into one of the preeminent manufacturer’s representative organizations in the country.
A former member of the Governor’s Horse Guard, Bill was an avid tennis player and member of the Trinity Episcopal Church of Tariffville Choir.
In retirement Bill found a great passion in woodworking, both at home and with his son-in-law Ben Hennigan. Together they renovated almost 20 homes in northeastern Connecticut.
He leaves his wife; two sons Peter Grinold of Rutland, Vt., and Paul Grinold of Big Pine Key, Fla.; three daughters: Heidi Derbyshire of Lincoln, Mass., Mindy Bicknell of Andover, N.H., and Alicia Hamblett of Great Barrington, R.I.; two stepsons, Michael Alberts of Woodstock and David Alberts of Ellington; two stepdaughters, Susan Hennigan of Woodstock and Lisa Kelly of Putnam; a brother, Robert Grinold of Wilmington, Vt.; grandchildren; great-grandchildren. He was predeceased by a brother, Wade Grinold.
Funeral services and cremation were private. Donations: Connecticut Humane Society, 701 Russell Rd, Newington, CT 06111. Gilman Funeral Home and Crematory, 104 Church St, Putnam.
Joan C. Kelly
PUTNAM — Joan C. Kelly, 71, of Putnam, died unexpectedly Sept. 11, 2017, at home. She was born Dec. 29, 1945, in Putnam, daughter of Raymond and Wanda Miskiavitch.
Joan was a long time member of Trinity Episcopal Church in Brooklyn, where she had served as clerk of the Vestry and as parish secretary.
Joan also was a member of the healing guild and enjoyed playing her guitar as a member of the music ministry.
She dearly loved serving as a member of the Old Trinity Committee which has oversight of Old Trinity Church and the burial ground which surrounds it.
She worked in marketing for UNFI in Providence for 25 years.
She was also employed more than 20 years at Rogers Corp. working in the Purchasing department.
She also had worked at Cargill Chevrolet and Hartford National Bank. Joan loved reading, watching movies, knitting, horseback riding, English and Western, and music especially the “oldies.”
She leaves her sister, Eileen Miskiavitch of Putnam; her brother Raymond R. Miskiavitch of Japan.
The Service was Sept. 15 the Trinity Episcopal Church, Brooklyn with burial in the Old Trinity Church Cemetery.
Donations: Charity of one’s choice. Smith and Walker Funeral Home, 148 Grove St., Putnam.
Frances ‘Molly’ Mayo
POMFRET CENTER — Frances “Molly” Mayo, 72, of Grosvenor Road, died Sept. 14, 2017. She was the wife of David B. Mayo Sr. for 52 years.
Born in 1944 in Putnam, she was one of seven children of the late Francis and Elizabeth (Corey) Clements.
Molly and her husband David owned and operated David Mayo Rubbish Removal for 30 years. She also worked for Day Kimball Hospital in the accounting department and later worked for Fiberoptics Technology Inc.
She loved family Sunday dinners and holiday gatherings. Molly enjoyed crafting, sewing and quilting.
She used her creative flair to make beautiful keepsake articles of clothing, quilts, blankets, unique holiday ornaments and even doll clothes for her granddaughters’ dolls.
She enjoyed family outings to the Rhode Island beaches, Saturday tag sales, annual trips to the Brimfield craft fair and baking special treats and fishing.
Her laughter was contagious and her ability to make others smile and feel good about themselves was unprecedented.
She leaves nine children: Lisa Salvas (Warren) of Putnam, David Mayo Jr. (Dawn) of Dayville, Lincoln Mayo (Paula) of Pomfret, Kathleen Young (Jeffrey) of Royalston, Mass., Amy Martel of Putnam, Luke Mayo (Emily) of Coventry, Mary Ellen Mayo (wife Karin Croucher) of Danvers, Mass., Kelly Hachigian (John) of Webster, and Troy Mayo (Holly) of Putnam; one brother Michael Clements of Putnam; three sisters, Barbara Stefanik of E. Hartford, Kathleen Clements of New York, and Susan Richardson of York, S.C.; 10 grandsons, eight granddaughters, and two great-grandsons. In addition to her husband, she was predeceased by two brothers, Timothy and James Clements, and one granddaughter, Erika Salvas.
The Funeral was Sept. 19 at Gilman Funeral Home and Crematory, 104 Church St., Putnam, with burial in Pomfret South Cemetery.
Donations: Masonicare Home Health & Hospice, 22 Masonic Ave., Wallingford, CT 06492.
Mary Maciora-Jacobs
WILLIAMSTOWN, Mass. — Mary G. Maciora-Jacobs, 67, died Aug. 26, 2017, in Williamstown.
Mary was born in 1950 and lived in Trumbull, Mystic, New London, Gales Ferry, and graduated from St. Mary School, Norwich.
Mary graduated in 1967 from Cheshire High School.
She attended Berkshire Community College, Pittsfield, Mass., and worked in retail sales.
She visited the northeast quiet kingdom of CT several times also Washington, D.C., Boston and Montreal and Ottawa, Canada.
She leaves her mother, Mary A. Maciora of Pittsfield; her brother Joseph G. V. Maciora of Pittsfield; and her daughter, Susan M. Jacobs. he was a niece of the late Helen (Maciora) Marion (Putnam) and a cousin of the late Dorothy (Marion) Landini (Thompson). he was also predeceased by her father, Joseph G. Maciora who died on July 18, 1998.
The Funeral Mass was Sept. 1 with burial followed in the family plot at St. Joseph Cemetery, Pittsfield.
Joan Mason
QUINEBAUG — Joan (Neulieb) Mason, 82, died Sept. 17, 2017, at Brookside of Webster.
Joan was born Jan. 4, 1935, in Webster, daughter of the late Chester and the late Evelyn (Pendergast) Neulieb.
Her Husband of 51 years John “Jack” Mason died in 2007.
She leaves two sons: John Mason of Quinebaug and Robert Mason (Lisa) of N. Grosvenordale; six grandchildren Randi Lee, Nicole, John, David, Jamie and Jessica; a great-grandson Evan.
The funeral was Sept. 20 at Bartel Funeral Home & Chapel, Dudley. Donations: Quinebaug Volunteer Fire Department, 720 Quinebaug Rd, P.O. Box 144, Quinebaug, CT 06262-0144.
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Aime J. Beausoleil,
WWII vet
BROOKLYN — Aime J. Beausoleil, 93, of Brooklyn, died Sept. 11, 2017.. He was born Nov. 14, 1923, in Manchester, N.H., son of Israel and Lydia (Lavoie) Beausoleil.
After graduating from high school in Boston, he enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corp in August 1941. He fought during WWII in the Pacific Theater and was wounded in combat during the battle for Iwo Jima. Only the bravery of his fellow Marines saved Aime’s life that day as he was rescued and brought to Hawaii to recuperate. Upon discharge from the Marine Corp in 1946 Aime came to Connecticut, where his parents had moved. There he met and married his wife with whom he would build his future life. They were married Oct. 23, 1948, in St. James Church. His wife Lorraine (Dutremble) died in 1994. Together they bought a home in Brooklyn, where they raised their four children. Aime loved this home and would live there for 65 years.
Aime was a correction officer for the State of Connecticut for 24 years and also was a farmer. Upon retiring he spent winters in Winter Haven, Fla., for 20 years. Amie was an avid golfer and a fan of the Red Sox and the Patriots.
He leaves his children Patricia Wiggs (Richard) of St. Augustine, Fla.; Dennis Beausoleil (Terri) of Griswold, Phillis Beausoleil of Palm Coast, Fla.; Deborah Beausoleil of Old Saybrook; grandchildren Jonathan Manning of California, Lauren Lyn of New Hartford, Jessica Cormier of Chilcoot of California, Darren Beausoleil of Noank, Danielle Beausoleil of Noank, and Caitlon Stedman of Westbrook; great-grandchildren Gavin Lyn and Kylie Lyn of New Hartford; his brother Roger Beausoleil (Eva) of Danielson.
A Mass of Christian Burial was Sept. 16 at St. James Church, Danielson, with burial with military honors later in Holy Cross Cemetery, Danielson. Donations: Veteran’s charity of the donor’s choice. Gagnon and Costello Funeral Home, 33 Reynolds St., Danielson.
Bruce Allen Tefft,
Navy vet
EASTFORD — Bruce A. Tefft, 69, of Union Rd. died Sept. 1, 2017, at home. Bruce was born in 1948 in Putnam, the son of the late Robert and Dorothy (Weeks) Tefft.
Bruce enlisted in the U.S. Navy in 1965 and lived in the San Francisco area. He earned his bachelor’s in sociology and continued his education in 1987 by attending the Quinebaug Valley Community College in Danielson.
Bruce enjoyed working with his hands and took pride in everything that he did. He was self-employed and worked with other contractors in the construction field as a carpenter and painter. He also worked for Putnam Furniture in Putnam. Bruce wanted to give back to his community and worked for many social services agencies as a teacher and a social worker. This work included teaching for the New England Adult Education Program and Quinebaug Valley Youth and Family Program. He was an assistant teacher for the Quinebaug Valley Community College Welfare to Work Program and worked as a social worker for NECT. In addition, he worked for the Community Development Corporation for five years.
Bruce enjoyed fishing, gardening and had a love for animals, especially his pot belly pig, who he raised for 14 years until his passing in 2016.
In addition to his long-time companion of 43 years, Debra A. Billings of Eastford, he leaves four sisters Nancy Hattin of E. Thompson, Patricia Landry of Lake Haverson, Ariz., Robin Faford-Brown of Almet, Calif., and Gemma Blain of Putnam. Bruce is predeceased by his sisters, Judy Eckelson, Jill Cote and Susan Tefft.
Donations: NECCOG Animal Services, PO Box 759, Dayville, CT 06241. Gilman Funeral Home and Crematory, 104 Church St., Putnam.
Henry A. Borders,
WWII vet
DANIELSON — Henry Albert Borders, 92 of Danielson, died unexpectedly Sept. 14, 2017, at Hartford Hospital. He was the husband of Miriam (Baribeau) Borders. They were married Dec. 13, 1977. His first wife, Florence (Gilbeault) Borders, died in 1960.
Henry was born June 21, 1925, in Saugus, Mass., son of the late Snow and Marjorie (Lathrop) Borders.
He was a veteran of WWII serving with the U.S. Army.
Henry worked as a mason most of his life. He had worked over the years for Constantino Brothers, Mullery’s, both formerly of Providence, and Louie Tetreault Building as a mason, and later for Preferred Plastics. He was a member of the Danielson American Legion Post 21. Henry had a passion for restoring cars and he enjoyed playing practical jokes on family and friends.
In addition to his wife Miriam, he leaves his children, Albert Borders of Killingly, Gayle Krzywda of New Hampshire, Gregory Borders Sr. of Killingly, Keith Borders of Austin, Texas, George Bessette Jr. of Killingly, Joanne Demars of Killingly, Michele Integlia of Dudley, Lisa Wood of Killingly; 12 grandchildren, 18 great-grandchildren and two great-great-grandchildren He was predeceased by his first wife Florence in 1960, his son Stephen Borders in 1960 and his daughter Beverly Bessetet in 1994, and a great-great-grandchild Jordan Fonseca in 2011, his siblings Lou, Lillian Josephine, Dorothy, Frederick and Warren.
The Funeral Service was Sept. 18 at Gagnon and Costello Funeral Home, 33 Reynolds St., Danielson, with burial in Phillips Cemetery, Foster, with military honors.
John M. Fitzgerald,
Vietnam war vet
N. GROSVENORDALE — John M. Fitzgerald, 75, died Sept. 15, 2017, in Day Kimball Hospital. He was the husband of Renée (Bast) Fitzgerald for 28 years. Born in 1942 in Hartford, he was the son of the late James & Florence (Marshall) Fitzgerald.
John worked as a tool & form grinder for Spirol International for 38 years. He graduated St. Mary School in East Hartford and served as an altar boy in St. Mary Church. He served in the National Guard during the Vietnam war.
Although he failed music class in school, John taught himself how to read music and play the steel guitar and Dobro. His love of music helped foster many great friendships. He was a member of the New England Country Music Club and played in several local country music bands. He used his musical talent to help raise money for many great causes.
He loved spending time with his family and friends having meaningful conversations, good food and good laughs. He enjoyed quiet times on his deck watching nature around him with his wife Renée and dog Bella. He also was interested in astronomy, history and aircraft.
In addition to his wife, he leaves his daughters, Tena Rockatansky (Max) of Sterling, and Jeannine Fournier (Joe) of Bellingham, Mass.; his sister Dorothy Pedneault (Gerry) of E. Hampton; five grandchildren, Jesse, Seth, Jaydine, Sarena and Linzy; two great-grandchildren, Liam and Olivia; and his dog Bella.
Visitation is from 5 to 8 p.m. Sept. 20 in Gilman Funeral Home, 104 Church St, Putnam. The funeral will assemble at 9 a.m. Sept. 21 at the funeral home followed by a Funeral Service at 10 in the funeral home. Burial with military honors will follow in West Thompson Cemetery.
Sr. Rita Marie Quintal
Sr. Rita Marie Quintal, 95, a member of the Daughters of the Holy Spirit, died Sept. 11, 2017, at St. Joseph Living Center in Windham.
Born Marie Eva Rita Quintal Aug. 16, 1922, in Lawrence, Mass., she was the daughter of Narcisse and Bertha (Bolduc) Quintal. She entered religious life in Putnam at the Holy Spirit Provincial House there in 1938 and made her religious profession in 1943. She was then known as Sr. Bertha de Jesus.
She taught in elementary schools operated by Daughters of the Holy Spirit in Massachusetts, upstate New York, Connecticut and Vermont from 1943-1976. In 1977 she took a 2-year course in Fashion & Design in Boston in preparation for teaching sewing. Following this she put her knowledge of sewing to use in Springfield, Mass., where she taught sewing at Casa Cristo Rey and in Waterbury in 1978. In 1979 she returned to Boston as a student and from 1980-84 she worked at various ministries at St. Joseph Guest House in New Haven, in upstate New York and in Woodstock.
In 1985 she worked as a homemaker for Kelly Healthcare in Lawrence. From 1986-94 she worked as a seamstress for Ben’s Uniforms, Amesbury, Mass., O’Donnell’s in Newport, R.I., and So-Fro Fabric in Middletown, R.I. In 1996 she moved back to Putnam and worked as a nurse’s aide part time and from 1997 she taught sewing. In January of 2014, she retired to the Provincial House and in August of 2016 she transferred to St. Joseph Living Center in Windham.
She leaves a sister Mrs. Theresa Avard of New Hampshire; nieces and nephews, grand nieces and nephews as well as her spiritual family,
her sisters in community, the Consecrated Seculars and the DHS Associates.
The Mass of Christian Burial was Sept. 15 the Provincial House chapel with burial St. Mary Cemetery. Donations: DHS Retirement Fund, Holy Spirit Provincial House, 72 Church St., Putnam, CT 06260. Gilman Funeral Home, 104 Church St., Putnam.
William B. Grinold
WOODSTOCK — William (Bill) B. Grinold, 80, of Roseland Park Road, formerly of Granby, died Sept. 15, 2017, at home. For more than 35 years, he was the husband of Joyce A. (Ledden) Grinold. Born in 1937 in Hartford, he was the son of the late Raymond W. and Cleo (Costello) Grinold.
After graduating from Bryant College in Providence, Bill joined his father and brother at Grinold Auto Parts of Hartford where he rose to become an executive. Upon the business’ sale, as president he helped grow Grinold - O’Brien Sales, Inc. of Walpole, Mass., into one of the preeminent manufacturer’s representative organizations in the country.
A former member of the Governor’s Horse Guard, Bill was an avid tennis player and member of the Trinity Episcopal Church of Tariffville Choir.
In retirement Bill found a great passion in woodworking, both at home and with his son-in-law Ben Hennigan. Together they renovated almost 20 homes in northeastern Connecticut.
He leaves his wife; two sons Peter Grinold of Rutland, Vt., and Paul Grinold of Big Pine Key, Fla.; three daughters: Heidi Derbyshire of Lincoln, Mass., Mindy Bicknell of Andover, N.H., and Alicia Hamblett of Great Barrington, R.I.; two stepsons, Michael Alberts of Woodstock and David Alberts of Ellington; two stepdaughters, Susan Hennigan of Woodstock and Lisa Kelly of Putnam; a brother, Robert Grinold of Wilmington, Vt.; grandchildren; great-grandchildren. He was predeceased by a brother, Wade Grinold.
Funeral services and cremation were private. Donations: Connecticut Humane Society, 701 Russell Rd, Newington, CT 06111. Gilman Funeral Home and Crematory, 104 Church St, Putnam.
Joan C. Kelly
PUTNAM — Joan C. Kelly, 71, of Putnam, died unexpectedly Sept. 11, 2017, at home. She was born Dec. 29, 1945, in Putnam, daughter of Raymond and Wanda Miskiavitch.
Joan was a long time member of Trinity Episcopal Church in Brooklyn, where she had served as clerk of the Vestry and as parish secretary.
Joan also was a member of the healing guild and enjoyed playing her guitar as a member of the music ministry.
She dearly loved serving as a member of the Old Trinity Committee which has oversight of Old Trinity Church and the burial ground which surrounds it.
She worked in marketing for UNFI in Providence for 25 years.
She was also employed more than 20 years at Rogers Corp. working in the Purchasing department.
She also had worked at Cargill Chevrolet and Hartford National Bank. Joan loved reading, watching movies, knitting, horseback riding, English and Western, and music especially the “oldies.”
She leaves her sister, Eileen Miskiavitch of Putnam; her brother Raymond R. Miskiavitch of Japan.
The Service was Sept. 15 the Trinity Episcopal Church, Brooklyn with burial in the Old Trinity Church Cemetery.
Donations: Charity of one’s choice. Smith and Walker Funeral Home, 148 Grove St., Putnam.
Frances ‘Molly’ Mayo
POMFRET CENTER — Frances “Molly” Mayo, 72, of Grosvenor Road, died Sept. 14, 2017. She was the wife of David B. Mayo Sr. for 52 years.
Born in 1944 in Putnam, she was one of seven children of the late Francis and Elizabeth (Corey) Clements.
Molly and her husband David owned and operated David Mayo Rubbish Removal for 30 years. She also worked for Day Kimball Hospital in the accounting department and later worked for Fiberoptics Technology Inc.
She loved family Sunday dinners and holiday gatherings. Molly enjoyed crafting, sewing and quilting.
She used her creative flair to make beautiful keepsake articles of clothing, quilts, blankets, unique holiday ornaments and even doll clothes for her granddaughters’ dolls.
She enjoyed family outings to the Rhode Island beaches, Saturday tag sales, annual trips to the Brimfield craft fair and baking special treats and fishing.
Her laughter was contagious and her ability to make others smile and feel good about themselves was unprecedented.
She leaves nine children: Lisa Salvas (Warren) of Putnam, David Mayo Jr. (Dawn) of Dayville, Lincoln Mayo (Paula) of Pomfret, Kathleen Young (Jeffrey) of Royalston, Mass., Amy Martel of Putnam, Luke Mayo (Emily) of Coventry, Mary Ellen Mayo (wife Karin Croucher) of Danvers, Mass., Kelly Hachigian (John) of Webster, and Troy Mayo (Holly) of Putnam; one brother Michael Clements of Putnam; three sisters, Barbara Stefanik of E. Hartford, Kathleen Clements of New York, and Susan Richardson of York, S.C.; 10 grandsons, eight granddaughters, and two great-grandsons. In addition to her husband, she was predeceased by two brothers, Timothy and James Clements, and one granddaughter, Erika Salvas.
The Funeral was Sept. 19 at Gilman Funeral Home and Crematory, 104 Church St., Putnam, with burial in Pomfret South Cemetery.
Donations: Masonicare Home Health & Hospice, 22 Masonic Ave., Wallingford, CT 06492.
Mary Maciora-Jacobs
WILLIAMSTOWN, Mass. — Mary G. Maciora-Jacobs, 67, died Aug. 26, 2017, in Williamstown.
Mary was born in 1950 and lived in Trumbull, Mystic, New London, Gales Ferry, and graduated from St. Mary School, Norwich.
Mary graduated in 1967 from Cheshire High School.
She attended Berkshire Community College, Pittsfield, Mass., and worked in retail sales.
She visited the northeast quiet kingdom of CT several times also Washington, D.C., Boston and Montreal and Ottawa, Canada.
She leaves her mother, Mary A. Maciora of Pittsfield; her brother Joseph G. V. Maciora of Pittsfield; and her daughter, Susan M. Jacobs. he was a niece of the late Helen (Maciora) Marion (Putnam) and a cousin of the late Dorothy (Marion) Landini (Thompson). he was also predeceased by her father, Joseph G. Maciora who died on July 18, 1998.
The Funeral Mass was Sept. 1 with burial followed in the family plot at St. Joseph Cemetery, Pittsfield.
Joan Mason
QUINEBAUG — Joan (Neulieb) Mason, 82, died Sept. 17, 2017, at Brookside of Webster.
Joan was born Jan. 4, 1935, in Webster, daughter of the late Chester and the late Evelyn (Pendergast) Neulieb.
Her Husband of 51 years John “Jack” Mason died in 2007.
She leaves two sons: John Mason of Quinebaug and Robert Mason (Lisa) of N. Grosvenordale; six grandchildren Randi Lee, Nicole, John, David, Jamie and Jessica; a great-grandson Evan.
The funeral was Sept. 20 at Bartel Funeral Home & Chapel, Dudley. Donations: Quinebaug Volunteer Fire Department, 720 Quinebaug Rd, P.O. Box 144, Quinebaug, CT 06262-0144.
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