Church Pastors

  
 
During our kindergarten through twelfth grade years, there were eight churches in town, attended by many of us and our families. On this page, we remember and honor pastors from these churches who have passed away. We deeply appreciate their service and the wonderful ways in which they touched our lives.
 
Please click here to see photos of these churches. To see other tributes, click on the "Life Tributes" link at the left and then on the page of interest.
 
 Military service (details in tribute)
 
First Baptist Church 

First Congregational Church  
First (later United) Methodist Church 
St. Joseph's Roman Catholic Church
 
St. Michael's Roman Catholic Church  
 
St. Paul Lutheran Church
 
St. Paul's Roman Catholic Church
 
Reverend Glenn A. Pearson
(1931-2021)
Pastor, St. Paul Lutheran Church, 1965-1971
 
 
 
Rev. Pearson during our time and later in life.
 
Glenn Albin Pearson completed his earthly journey on Wednesday, Feb. 16, 2022, at the age of 90.
 
Glenn was born in Wisconsin on Jun. 19, 1931, and raised on a dairy farm. Upon graduation from high school, he completed a communications program in Minneapolis and was employed by the railroad in Galesburg, IL sending teletype and morse code messages.
 
He served in the Army Signal Corps in Korea from 1952-1954. After the war, he studied at the Lutheran Bible Institute in Minneapolis, and then Luther College in Wahoo, NE, where he met his future wife, Esther Over of Council Bluffs, IA.
 
He went on to complete studies at Augsburg College in Minneapolis and Augustana Lutheran Seminary in Rock Island, IL. He was ordained as a Lutheran pastor in 1965 and would serve as pastor of five different churches, in Massachusetts, Pennsylvania, New York, and Omaha.
 
Glenn traveled as a missionary teacher to a total of 13 countries. His final years of church ministry included training teams to visit the sick and elderly in Omaha. In 2007, Glenn's book, Prepare to Meet your God: Scriptural Meditations for the Terminally Ill and Their Caregivers, was published.
 
He also had an amazing talent for woodworking and enjoyed camping, gardening, and birdwatching.
 
Glenn is survived by his loving wife of 60 years, Esther Ruth (Over) Pearson; four daughters, Christine (William) Dietrich of California; Emily (David) Rodden of Pennsylvania; Melissa (Steven) Bundy of California; and Laura (William) Fabian of Omaha; as well as 13 grandchildren. He is also survived by his brother, James Pearson of Connecticut, and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Albin and Helen Pearson, and siblings Dorothy Johnson, Irvin Pearson, Evelyn Nelson, Reuben Pearson, and Arlene Sandberg.
 
 
Springfield Union newspaper article, Feb. 8, 1971.
 
 
Rev. Pearson's marker in Forest Lawn Cemetery, Omaha, NE.
 
 
Reverend James R. Hansen
(1924-2021)
Minister of Christian Education, First Congregational Church, 1961-1975
 
 
 
Rev. Hansen in 1967 and on his 91st birthday, Aug. 21, 2015
 
Reverend James R. Hansen of Hanover, NH died on Sunday, Aug. 22 after a brief period of declining health.
 
Jim and his wife, Louise moved to Hanover in 2008 afer 18 years in Windsor, VT.
 
Born on Apr. 21, 1924 to Otto and Amelia Hansen, Jim grew up in Chicago, IL. After one year of college, he enlisted in the Army Air Corps and served as a gunnery instructor for four years. On his return from the service, Jim enrolled at DePauw University, where he met his future wife, Louise Flanders.
 
Jim and Louise were married on Aug. 27, 1949 in Anderson, IN. They honeymooned at Banff National Park and Lake Louise, but their most exciting early trip was a bicycle trip through Europe in 1951, on 3-speed Schwinns! Years later, they continued to bike with friends on trips to Vermont, England, and Denmark.
 
After three years at Garrett Semimary in Evanston, IL and a master's degree from Hartford Seminary in Connecticut, Jim was ordained in the Congregational Church (later the United Church of Christ). He spent 37 years as a Minister of Christian Education at churches in Lakewood, OH, Wilbraham, MA, East Longmeadow, MA, and South Windsor, CT.
 
Jim's commitment to children and youth is the hallmark of his career. He built strong church school programs and youth fellowships in all his churches. During the 1960s and 1970s in East Longmeadow, youth fellowship and the Friday night "Congo" dances were the places to be. Jim also led numerous youth bicycle trips for 30 years to Vermont, Cape Cod, and Martha's Vineyard from both the East Longmeadow and South Windsor churches. Several generations of church school and youth fellowship members share memories of Jim performing their wedding ceremonies.
 
Jim and Louise raised their two children in Wilbraham and East Longmeadow and spent 41 summers at their beloved Martha's Vineyard cottage. After Jim retired in 1990, he and Louise moved to Windsor, VT to continue their love affair with that state. They embarked on travels to Asia, Africa, Scandinavia, Alaska, and river cruises in Europe.
 
Jim's life of service continued in retirement through his 15 years of volunteering at Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center.
 
Jim was predeceased by his wife, Louise after 62 years of marriage, and his daughter-in-law, Diane Hansen. He leaves his son, David Hansen of Montague, MA; his daughter, Ellen Hansen (husband, Steve) of Hillsboro, OR; one granddaughter; two grandsons; and six great-grandchildren.
 
A donation to the helping organization of your choice would be a wonderful memorial to a long life, well-lived.
 
(Excerpted from The Republican newspaper, Springfield, MA).
 
 
Springfield Union newspaper article on the farewell reception for the Hansens on Nov. 16, 1975.
 
 
Reverend Philip Dale Neufer
(1928-2020)
Pastor, United Methodist Church, 1966-1976
 
 
 
Rev. Neufer in 1969 and later in life.
 
Reverend Dr. Philip Dale Neufer passed away peacefully, surrounded by family on Tuesday, Mar. 17, 2020.
 
The youngest of three boys, Dale was born on May 19, 1928 in Bloomsburg, PA to Lester and Mary (Bredhenner) Neufer.
 
Like his older brothers, Dale valued education and began his lifelong learning in a humble one-room schoolhouse in the rural hills of Pennsylvania. From there, he received his Bachelor of Arts from Dickinson College and his Master of Divinity from Drew Theological Seminary. While at Drew, he was granted a yearlong scholarship to attend Cambridge and London Universities. Upon return, he earned his Master of Sacred Theology from Boston University School of Theology, and in 1972, after much perseverance, he completed his Doctor of Theology degree at Iliff School of Theology in Denver, CO.
 
His passion for scholary research continued throughout his life, with several publications exploring the mysteries of systematic theology, with his most recent publication in the journal "Encounter" in 2011. Right up to his death, he was pursuing study of the complexities of the Trinity and many other unanswered theological questions.
 
Dale also had a tremendous heart for ministry and serving the underserved. Starting at 17 years old, he served a wide range of urban and rural United Methodist Churches throughout Pennsylvania, New York, Massachusetts, Colorado, and Connecticut. His ministry continued well into his mid-seventies, cataloging over 2200 sermons (no repeats!). He touched countless lives and was always beloved by his many parishioners. He was particularly known for his patience and tireless compassion for the homebound, elderly, and ailing members and friends of his churches.
 
While serving at College Ave. United Methodist Church in Somerville, MA, he became smitten by a beautiful young woman named Judith Howard. They married on Jul. 15, 1961. For 58 years, they were devoted partners in relishing all the many ups and downs of church life.
 
Dale was preceded in death by his parents and his two older brothers, Franklin Earl and Lester Paul Neufer. He is survived by his beloved wife, Judy; his son, Peter Darrell Neufer and wife, Robin of Greenville, NC, and their children; daughter, Lynelle (Neufer) Phillips and her husband, Steven J. Westgate of Columbia, MO, and their children; and sister-in-law Marna Neufer, wife of L. Paul Neufer.
 
(Excerpted from the Smith Funeral Service and Crematory website, Greenville, NC).
 
Please click here for a video of Rev. Neufer's memorial service. His daughter, Lynelle speaks at 27:53 and his son, Darrell speaks at 44:10.
 
 
Rev. Neufer and his wife, Judy in 2010.
 
 
Reverend S. A. Barton Clark
(1925-2016)
Pastor, First Baptist Church, 1956-1962
 
 
 
Rev. Clark in 1956 and later in life.
 
S. A. Barton Clark, 90, of Springfield, OH went to be with the Lord on Mar. 22, 2016 at Forest Glen Health Campus. 
 
He was born on Nov. 20, 1925 in Montreal, Canada to Gordon Clark and Ethel (Barton) Clark. 
 
Mr. Clark received a Master's of Divinity from Gordon Conwell Seminary in Massachusetts.
 
He served as a pastor for ten years in New Hampshire and Massachusetts. Barton was a high school English teacher for twenty years in New York and locally was principal of Springfield Christian Schools from 1981-1983. He was the coordinator the the "Golden Gater" ministry at Southgate Baptist Church for more than ten years.
 
Barton was an avid Cincinatti Reds and Bengals fan, and a collector of old Western music, especially Roy Rogers and Sons of the Pioneers. Barton always enjoyed having family gatherings.
 
In February 2015, Barton was preceded in death by his wife, Mildred Clark of 65 years, and was also preceded in death by his parents and step-mother, Winifred Clark. He is survived by four children and their spouses: Glenna and Robert Bergey of Pennsylvania; Russell and Marlene Clark of Springfield; Charlene and Mark Brady of Michigan; and Calvin and Carol Clark of Brazil; ten grandchildren; and five great-granchildren.
 
(Excerpted from the Springfield News-Sun newspaper, Springfield, Ohio).
 

Rev. Clark's headstone in Rose Hill Burial Park, Springfield, OH. Photo copyrighted by Grave Hunter, #47976571.
 
 
Reverend Hugh F. Crean
(1937-2015)
Pastor, St. Michael's Parish, 1962-1969
 
 
 
Rev. Crean in 1962 and 1969.
 
Reverend Hugh Francis Crean, 78, died Tuesday, Oct. 6, 2015.
 
He was born in Westfield, MA on Mar. 26, 1937 to the late Hugh and Nora (Brosnan) Crean. He attended St. Mary's Elementary and High School in Westfield. He received his BA at Holy Cross College where he served as president of his senior class.
 
He attended St. Mary's Seminary in Baltimore from 1958-1962 and was ordained to the priesthood for the Diocese of Springfield in 1962.
 
Father Crean received his Doctorate (Ph.D and S.T.D.) from the University of Louvain in Belgium.
 
Father was assigned to St. Michael's Parish in East Longmeadow, MA from 1962-1969. He taught theology at Elms College from 1973-1979 and beginning in 1973 preached at over 100 priest retreats throughout the United States and Canada. He served as Diocesan Director of Continuing Education for Priests from 1974-1980.
 
Father Crean was Pastor of Holy Name Parish in Springfield, MA from 1993-1999 and Pastor of Our Lady of Blessed Sacrament Church in Westfield from 1999-2004.
 
In retirement, he served as chaplain at Providence Place Retirement Community from 2004-2010. In addition to his pastoral assignments, Father. Crean served on many diocesan boards and committees and among his many accomplishments received an honorary degree from Elms College. 
 
He was predeceased by his beloved brothers John and William. Father Crean leaves his sister, Sheila Crean-Rheault; his sisters-in-law, Joan Pavel and her husband, Herb, and Clare "Pat" Crean. He also leaves his cousins Joseph Daly and Jack Daly as well as several cherished nieces, nephews, and grand-nieces and grand-nephews, as well as many faithful friends, parishioners, and his brother priests of the Diocese of Springfield.
 
In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Father Crean may be made to the Sisters of St. Joseph, Springfield, MA.
 
(Excerpted from The Republican newspaper, Springfield, MA).
 
 
Scan of a photo on microfilm from the Springfield Union newspaper, Sep. 10, 1969. Caption: The Reverend Hugh F. Crean receives well wishes from St. Michael's parishioners at a farewell party in his honor Tuesday in the East Longmeadow church. From left are Mrs. Raymond Lynch, Women's Club president; Fr. Crean; Mrs. Hugh Crean, his mother; and Thomas Sault, Men's Club president.
 
Here is the article from the Springfield Union, Sep. 10, 1969 that accompanied the above photo:
 
More than 1100 parishioners and friends of The Reverend Hugh F. Crean attended a farewell testimonial for him Tuesday night in St. Michael's parish hall.
 
The gathering included young people and children as well as adults who crowded into the hall to express their gratitude for his work here and good wishes for the future.
 
Father Crean, who has been assistant pastor at St. Michael's seven years, is leaving to study for a doctorate in theology at the University of Louvain, Belgium.
 
The Reverend John R. Wolohan, church pastor, said Father Crean, "has given some of the brightest years of his life to you and to me. We wish him Godspeed and may God's blessing in abundance be upon him in whatever he undertakes."
 
Thomas Sault, St. Michael's Men's Club president, and Mrs. Raymond Lynch, Catholic Women's Club president, presented him gifts on behalf of all the St. Michael's parish members.
 
Paul Lieberwirth presented him a gift from the altar boys. He said Father Crean, "brought us closer to the church."
 
Among those present were the Reverend Daniel Doyle, secretary to Bishop Christopher J. Weldon; the Reverend Martin Forhan of St. Mary's Church, Longmeadow; the Reverend Robert Coonan, who succeeds Father Crean as assistant pastor; Father Crean's parents, Mr. and Mrs. Hugh Crean of Westfield; and his sister, Sheila, a sister of St. Joseph.
 
Also paying tribute to Father Crean were members of the Board of Selectmen, other town officials and clergy of other local churches.
 
 
 
Left: Rev. Crean's photo that accompanied his obituary. Right: Rev. Crean celebrating his 50th year as a priest in 2012. Photo courtesy of Mark Murray of The Republican.
 
 
Crean family headstone in Saint Mary's Cemetery, Westfield, MA. 
 
 
Reverse side of Crean family headstone, on which are inscribed the names of Rev. Crean's father, Hugh F. Crean; his mother, Nora M. Brosnan; his brother, John J. Crean; Rev. Crean;  his sister, Sheila A. Crean, and Sheila's husband, Robert L. Rheault. Moss or lichen obscures some of the information, but Rev. Crean's inscription is clearly visible.
 
 
Reverend LeRoy O. A. Martinson
(1928-2015)
Pastor, St. Paul Lutheran Church, 1961-1965
 
 
LeRoy O. A. Martinson, 86, of Valparaiso, IN passed away Wednesday, Jun. 17, 2015.
 
He was born Nov. 20, 1928 in Idaho Fall, ID to Alfred P. and Ruth C. (Peterson) Martinson. LeRoy graduated from Gustavus Adolphus College in Minnesota, received his M.A. from Colunbia University in New York City, Divinity degree from Augustana Theological Seminary in Rock Island, IL, and Ph.D. from the University of Chicago.
 
He served as associate professor of sociology at Valparaiso University from 1967 until his retirement in 1992. Previously, he served as  a Lutheran pastor in Brooklyn, NY; North Grosvenordale, CT; and East Longmeadow, MA. LeRoy was a member of Trinity Lutheran Church, immersed himself in family genealogy, and enjoyed the symphony, traveling, and being with his grandchildren.
 
On Jun. 25, 1960 he married Nancy L. Getchell who survives, along with their children: Stephen L. (Brenda) Martinson of Valparaiso; Karin L. (Charles) Horner of South Bend; nine grandchildren, and one great-granddaughter. He was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Ruth C. Martinson; and brother, Joel F. Martinson.
 
Memorial donations may be directed to Trinity Lutheran Church, Valparaiso; VNA Hospice of Porter County; or Ogden Gardens Park in Valparaiso.
 
(Excerpted from The Times of Northwest Indiana newspaper, Valparaiso, IN).
 
 
Rev. Martinson's headstone in Angelcrest Cemetery, Valparaiso, IN.
 
 
Reverend William R. Valentine, Jr.
(1922-2015)
Pastor, United Methodist Church, 1961-1966
 
 
 
Rev. Valentine in 1961 and later in life.
 
William R. Valentine passed peacefully in his sleep on Sunday, Feb. 20, 2015 at the Wesley Manor Retirement Home in Frankfort, IN.
 
Bill was born in 1922 to W. Russell and Florence Powell Valentine in Lewiston, PA. After graduating from high school in York, PA he worked as a manager for F. W. Woolworth before being drafted into the Air Force in 1943. Like many in his generation, the experience of World War II changed his life. He decided to become a minister after serving as a chaplain's assistant in the Air Force, even though he knew "he could never preach."
 
He attended Dickinson College and received his Masters of Sacred Theology at Boston University in 1953. There, he met and married Mona Margaret Johnson, then a nursing student and the daughter of one of his professors. Bill always said the only way he got through seminary was to marry the professor's daughter.
 
He was ordained an elder in the Methodist Church in 1954. In spite of his misgivings, Bill became a very accomplished preacher. He served congregations in Wakefield and East Longmeadow, MA and in Franklin, Speedway, and Frankfort, IN. He also served as District Superintendent of the Indianapolis Southeast District of the Methodidst Church for six years.
 
He received an honorary doctorate in 1980 from the University of Indianapolis.
 
His sermons centered around peace and social justice rather than personal salvation, positions not always popular with his parishioners. He was an idealist who was more interested in trying to change the world than he was in creating a "comfortable pew."
 
After he retired in 1987, Bill and Mona were able to enjoy traveling, one of their many passions. They traveled six months of the year in their motor home, eventually visiting all fifty states. They served as volunteers at Rocky Mountain National Park in Colorado and at Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore in Michigan. Because of their time in Boston, Bill and Mona were avid Red Sox fans and never passed up a chance to get to a game. They timed their travels so they could take in spring training in Florida.
 
Bill was an accomplished woodworker and loved making wooden gifts in his workshop for anyone who would have them.
 
Bill was preceded in death by his wife, Mona; his sister, Janet Louise McCloskey; his grandson, Paul Wesley Bryant; and his son-in-law, Alan W. Bryant. He is survived by his sister, Margaret Ann (Robert) Berry; his son, Russell (Chris) Valentine; his daughter, Linda Valentine Bryant; two grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren.
 
The family would like to express their sincere gratitude to the nurses and staff of Wesley Manor and Guardian Angel Hospice.
 
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Good Samaritan Fund at Wesley Manor Retirement Home, Frankfort.
 
(Excerpted from the Indianapolis Star newspaper, Indiananapolis, IN).
 
 
Reverend Joseph P. Massaro, C.S.S. 
(Congregation of the Sacred Stigmata)
(1922-2007)
Rector, St. Joseph's Roman Catholic Church, 1954-1965
 
 
 
Father Joseph P. Massaro C.S.S., 84 years old, a member of the Stigmatine Fathers and Brothers, passed away on Sunday, Mar. 18, 2007 at Baystate Medical Center, Springfield, MA.
 
Father Massaro suffered a massive brain hemorrhage soon after celebrating the Sunday Vigil Mass on March 17 at St. Ann Church, West Springfield, MA.
 
Father Massaro was born in Newton, MA on Mar. 28, 1922, a son of the late Nunzio and Helena (Marello) Massaro. His brother, Ralph and his wife, Eleanor live in Pittsfield, MA and his brother-in-law, Wallace Burton lives in Pittsfield, MA. He was predeceased by two sisters, Christine Blaine and Elizabeth Burton. Father Massaro also leaves many loving nieces and nephews.
 
Father Massaro entered the Stigmatine seminary, Waltham, MA on Sep. 7, 1936. He professed his first vows on Sep. 9, 1940 and his final profession was on Sep. 9, 1943 at Waltham, MA. He was ordained to the priesthood on Jun. 12, 1948 at St. Paul Church, Wellesley, MA by John Cardinal Wright.
 
Father Massaro served the Church and the Stigmatine Community in many ministries: Prefect of Seminarians, Wellesley, MA; Parochial Vicar, St. Ann Church, West Springfield, MA; Parochial Vicar, Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church, White Plains, NY; Rector, St. Joseph Church, East Longmeadow, MA; Director of Public Relations/Fundraising, Waltham, MA; Director of Camp Wyoma, Hinsdale, MA; Rector, St. Mary Church, Ludlow, MA; Pastor, Holy Family Church, Lynn, MA; Pastor, Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Church, Pittsfield, MA; Parochial Vicar, St. Anthony Church, Agawam, MA; and Parochial Vicar and Rector, St. Ann Church, West Springfield, MA.
 
He was the founder and general chairman of the Charter "99" Scholarship Committee. This committee was very instrumental in assisting many men on their journey to the priesthood.
 
Father Massaro's passing was very sudden. He will be deeply missed by his Stigmatine Confreres and his own family, as well as so many relatives, friends, and parishioners. Father Massaro served the Church and the Stigmatine community very generously. May God now grant Father the reward of Blessed Eternity in Heaven. May he rest in peace.
 
Memorial donations may be made to Stigmatine Fathers and Brothers, Waltham, MA or to Our Lady of Mr. Carmel Church Rectory, Pittsfield, MA.
 
(Excerpted from The Republican newspaper, Springfield, MA). 
 
 
First Communion around 1960. Front row: unknown, unknown, unknown, unknown, unknown, unknown, unknown, Christine Gallerani (ELHS 1971). Row 2: Maria Siano, John Perella (ELHS 1971), unknown, Mark Simone, unknown, Joanne Rinaldi, unknown, the DeAngelo twins, Roberta Niznik (ELHS 1971). Row 3: Sister James Gertrude, Father Massaro, Sister Margaret Clement. Photo courtesy of Maria Nicolazzo.
 
 
Following First Communion around 1960. Deangelo twins on the ends, Joanne Rinaldi, Father Massaro, Maria Siano. Photo courtesy of Maria Nicolazzo.
 
 
Rev. Massaro's marker in Sacred Heart of Jesus Cemetery, Milford, MA.
 
 
Reverend John P. Lucey
(1908-2003)
Assistant Pastor, St. Michael's Parish, 1956-1960
 
 
Reverend John Patrick Lucey, age 95, of Norwell, MA, died on Wednesday, Jul. 16, 2003.
 
Rev. Lucey was born on Mar. 17, 1908. He was a graduate of Holy Cross College with a major in classics and philosophy. He was also a graduate of Seminaire St. Sulpice in Issy, France.
 
On Jul. 10, 1932, Rev. Lucey was ordained at the Blessed Sacrament Church, Worcester, MA by the Most Reverend Thomas M. O'Leary, D.D., Bishop of Springfield. He was the curate at Saint Mary's of Jefferson from Aug. 1, 1932 until Apr. 13, 1933; Saint Thomas of Adams from Apr. 13, 1933 until Jul. 27, 1933; Saint Mary's of Winchendon from Jul. 27, 1933 until Jul. 31, 1936; our Lacy Immaculate of Athol from Jul. 31, 1936 until Jul. 2, 1942; Saint Patrick's of South Hadley Falls from Jul. 3, 1942 until Jul. 7, 1944; Holy Family of Springfield from Jul. 7, 1944 until Sep. 30, 1950; Blessed Sacrament of Holyoke from Sep. 30, 1950 until Oct. 6, 1951; Our Lady of Hope from Oct. 6, 1951 until Oct. 6, 1956; St. Michael's of East Longmeadow from Oct. 6, 1956 until Aug. 13, 1960; and Saint Mary's of Springfield from Aug. 13, 1960 until Sep. 21, 1963.
 
Rev. Lucey then worked as pastor at Saint Christopher's of Brimfield from Sep. 21, 1963 until Feb. 4, 1967 (erected Saint Christopher's Church); Diocesan Senate on Mar. 24, 1966 for a three year term; and Saint Theresa's of Pittsfield from Feb. 4, 1967 until Sep. 20, 1975 (erected Catechetical Center).
 
Between Dec. 27, 1933 and Dec. 27, 1976, Rev. Lucey was elected and served on the Bishop's Commission for the Clergy. He was then elected to the Diocesan Senate for another three terms in 1974, serving until 1977.
 
Rev. Lucey became pastor in Florence with the Annunciation on Sep. 20, 1975. He was appointed Dean of Hampshire County West on Nov. 10, 1976 until Jul. 15, 1978. He was elected to the Bishop's Commission for the Clergy for a second time on Jan. 3, 1977 until Jan. 3, 1980. On Jul. 15, 1978, he was apointed the Episcopal Vicar of the Franklin-Hampsire Vicariate by Bishop MaGuire until Oct. 15, 1981.
 
Rev. Lucey retired on May 1, 1980, but continued to work during his retirement at the St. Helen's Church, Rt. 53, Norwell. He was the son of the late John M. Jucey and the late Ellen F. (Lawrence). Rev. Lucey is survived by his brother, Reverend Paul Lucey, S.J., of Weston MA; and his sister, Mary Lucey of Norwell. He was predeceased by his brothers, Reverend Francis L. Lucey, M.S.; Edward Lucey; and William Lucey.
 
(Excerpted from The Republican newspaper, Springfield, MA).
 
 
Rev. Lucey's headstone in St. John's Cemetery, Worcester, MA. His name is the third up from the bottom. Photo credit: S. A. Smith.
 
 
Reverend Clayton J. Steele
(1914-1993)
Pastor, First Congregational Church, 1964-1974
 
 
The Reverend Clayton Steele, 79, of Alexandria, Indiana, formerly of Spring Hill, Fla., died on Wednesday, Nov. 10, 1993.
 
He was born in New Brunswick, N.J., and held pastorates in Indiana, Massachusetts, Connecticut, and Florida. He was pastor emeritus and founder of the United Church of Christ, Spring Hill. He served as director of pastoral services at HCA Bayonet Point/Hudson Medical Center. He was past president of the Spring Hill Civic Association.
 
Survivors include his wife, Joan; two sons, Dr. David C., Alexandria; and Dr. Daniel C., Columbia, S.C.; five daughters, Rae Jean Woxell, Eugene, Ore.; Jerrry Barber, Memphis, Tenn.; Annette King; Katherine Meierjurgen; and Kristina Marie Dorn; and fifteen grandchildren.
 
(Excerpted from the St. Petersburg Times newspaper, St. Petersburg, FL).
 
*                                                 *                                               * 
 
Here  are excerpts from an article in the Mar. 8, 1974 Springfield Union newspaper:
 
An odyssey of more than forty years will end in May for The Reverend Clayton J. Steele of East Longmeadow.
 
At that time, he will leave his numerous civic responsibilities here and his post as pastor of the First Congregational Church in East Longmeadow to become pastor of the North Stamford Congregational Church in Stamford, Conn.
 
In his fourteen years in the Springfield area, Mr. Steele has also served as pastor of the Park Congregational Church and as associate minister of the South Congregational Church. Both are in Springfield.
 
The move to Stamford, Mr. Steele said, is a return to the area of his youth. At the age of three, Mr. Steele moved from New Brunswick, N.J. to Fairfield, Conn., not far from Stamford.
 
At sixteen years of age, freshly graduated from high school, Mr. Steele left for college in Indiana on the advice of a guidance counselor.
 
"It was an exciting thought in 1932," he said. "At that time, going to Indiana meant seeing cowboys and Indians." He saw none, however.
 
Graduating from Taylor University in Upland, Ind. in 1937, Mr. Steele tried his hand at industrial dye chemistry. It was to be a short-lived career.
 
"I had to decide whether I would make my life in the business world or do something more worthwhile," he told an interviewer. Following a long-time interest, he enrolled three years after graduating from college at the Union Theological Cemetery in Dayton, Ohio and later earned an M.A. in counseling from Ball State Teacher's College in Muncie, Ind.
 
While living in Indiana, Mr. Steele married the former Betty C. Smith of Alexandria, Ind. He served for several years as pastor of rural Methodist churches in that state, and later moved to Alexandria.
 
In 1957, the Steeles picked up their belongings for a brief move back to Connecticut. Mr. Steele supported his young family as an interim pastor in Connecticut and Massachusetts.
 
His first call in New England was to the Park Congregational Church in Springfield, and then as associate pastor of South Congregational Church. In 1964 he moved to East Longmeadow.
 
Mr. Steele is president of the Western Massachusetts Lung Association, a board member of the Springfield chapter of the American Red Cross and the Interreligious Housing Corp. of greater Springfield.
 
He is also a corporator of Wesson Memorial Hospital and the Pioneer Valley United Fund. He serves as chaplain to the East Longmeadow police force.
 
Going to Stamford, Mr. Steele said, "Is a unique opportunity. It is a smaller parish, with a chance for a close relationship with a small number of families."
 
"At age 59, I have been here a decade," he said. "I had to decide whether to finish my ministry here or move on somewhere else."
 
In 1972, Mr. Steele's first wife, Betty, died of a brain tumor. Last year, he married the former Joan C. Dorn of East Longmeadow.
 
 
Rev. Steele's headstone in Park View Cemetery, Alexandria, IN. Photo by Mike Owens.
 
 
Reverend Reuben W. Martin
(1928-1989)
Pastor, First Baptist Church, 1962-1973; father of classmate Ginger Martin Taylor
 
 
Rev. Martin in 1962.
 
The Reverend Reuben Martin, 60, of Dedham, MA, pastor of the First Baptist Church in Dedham, died Wednesday, Jun. 28, 1989 in Faulkner Hospital in Boston.
 
He was previously the pastor at Washburn Conservative Bapist Church in Maine and was a minister at Calvary Baptist Church in Newport, Maine, the First Baptist Church in East Longmeadow, and State Street Baptist Church, in Presque Isle, Maine.
 
Born in St. Paul, Minn., he had lived in Dedham for ten years.
 
He was a graduate of Bob Jones University in Greenville, S.C.
 
He leaves his wife, the former Wilda Silver; three daughters, Virginia Taylor and Nadeen Maserati, both of East Longmeadow; and Judy Parish in Georgia; a sister, Lois Hefflefinger in Minnesota; and eight grandchildren.
 
(Excerpted from the Springfield Union-News newspaper, Springfield, MA).
 
 
Rev. Martin's headstone in Baptist Village Cemetery, East Longmeadow, MA.
 
 
Reverend Charles Armour, C.P.S.
(Congregation of Priests of the Sacred Stigmata)
(1910-1989)
Rector, St. Joseph's Roman Catholic Church, 1962-1964
 
 
 
Rev. Armour in 1962 and later in life.
 
The Reverend Charles P. Armour of Waltham,Mass., a retired Stigmatine priest, died Friday, Jan. 20, 1989 at Waltham Hospital after a long illness. He was 78.
 
Born in Hyde Park, he was raised in Boston and attended local schools. He was graduated from Dorcester Boys High School in 1928, and the Stigmatine Minor Seminary.
 
Rev. Armour spent 20 years in Rome, where he received his license in sacred theology from the Pontifical University of St. Thomas and a doctorate of canon law from the Lateran University.
 
In 1932, he received his first vows and entered the Stigmatine order, followed in 1935 by his perpetual vows. He was ordained as a priest in 1937.
 
Rev. Armour served the church in a number of positions. From 1940 to 1943 and again in 1974, he served as master of novices. He was rector of the Stigmatine Major Seminary from 1940 to 1946, followed by 12 years in Rome as the vicar general for Stigmatines throughout the world. 
 
He was director of religious education in Our Lady of Angels Church in Woodbridge, Va., for 12 years, and also served as retreat director in the Espousal Retreat House in Waltham. In July 1987 he celebrated his 50th jubilee as a Stigmatine priest.
 
Rev. Armour is survived by four sisters, Mary O'Brien of Chestnut Hill; Sally Petta of Hyde Park, Jean Durham of Ottawa, Canada; and Marion Purcell of Braintree; and three brothers, William of San Franciso, Donald, and Lawrence.
 
(Excerpted from the Springfield Union newspaper, Springfield, MA).
 
 
Rev. Armour's marker in Sacred Heart of Jesus Cemetery, Milford, MA.
 
 
Reverend Angelo J. DaPrai, C.S.S. 
(Congregation of the Sacred Stigmata)
(1909-1987)
Rector and spiritual advisor, St. Joseph's Roman Catholic Church, 1965-1967
 
The Reverend Angelo DaPrai, former rector at St. Francis of Assisi, Lynn, Mass., died Tuesday, Nov. 3, 1987 at Symmes Hospital, Arlington, Mass. after a brief illness.
 
Born in Bresimo, Italy, he came to the United States in 1936.
 
Rev. DaPrai entered the Stigmatine Seminary on Oct. 23, 1923 in Verona, Italy. He was professed on Jul. 29, 1929 in Verona. Ordained to the priesthood on Jan. 26, 1936, in Udine, Italy by Bishop Carlo Ferrari, he taught at the seminary school at the Stigmatine Fathers and Brothers in Waltham until 1941.
 
He served as rector of St. Francis of Assisi from 1942-1952. He was assistant rector of Sacred Heart Church, Milford from 1952-1955.
 
He was local superior at Sacred Heart Church, Waltham from 1955-1961 and later served in various parishes, including Sangerfield, N.Y., Pittsfield, and Springfield. During his last year in the Springfield diocese, he served as rector at St. Joseph's Church in East Longmeadow.
 
In 1967 he returned to Lynn, where he again served as rector at St. Francis of Assisi Church until his retirement in 1986. 
 
On Saturday, Apr. 12, 1986 he celebrated the 50th anniversary of his ordination to the priesthood. Following his retirement he remained as priest in residence.
 
He is survived by a sister, Mrs. Elvira Gibelli, and several nieces and nephews in Italy; and the Fathers and Brothers of the Stigmatine Community.
 
(Excerpted from the Boston Herald newspaper, Boston, MA).
 
 
Rev. DaPrai's marker in Sacred Heart of Jesus Cemetery, Milford, MA.
 
 
Reverend John R. Wolohan
(1897-1986)
Pastor, St. Michael's Parish, 1949-1979
 
 
Reverend John Wolohan, 89, of 45 Timothy Circle, Springfield, retired 30-year pastor of St. Michael's Church, East Longmeadow, died Sunday, April 27, 1986 in Mercy Hospital.
 
He was named pastor of St. Michael's in January 1949, serving there until his retirement in February 1979.
 
A new parish hall was erected during his pastorship.
 
Born in Holyoke, he graduated from Holyoke High School and Holy Cross College in Worcester. He attended St. Mary's Seminary in Baltimore for three years and the Suplican Seminary in Washington, D.C.
 
He was ordained Jun. 10, 1922 at St. Michael's Cathedral, Springfield, by Bishop Thomas M. O'Leary.
 
He was a curate for four months at Holy Cross Church, Holyoke, and then served successively at Immaculate Conception Church, Worcester; St. Leo's Church, Leominster; Immaculate Conception Church, Lancaster; and St. Paul's Cathedral, Worcester.
 
He was pastor of St. James Church, South Deerfield, from July 1944 until he assumed his new duties at St. Michael's.
 
He leaves a sister, Marion Wolohan of Holyoke.
 
Donations may be made to the St. Michael's Church building fund.
 
(Excerpted from the Springfield Union newspaper, Springfield, MA).
 
*                                                 *                                               * 
 
Here's an article in the Jan. 22, 1979 Springfield Union newspaper on the occasion of Reverend Wolohan's retirement reception:
 
When the Reverend John R. Wolohan, pastor of St. Michael's Church, was asked his greatest accomplishment here during his thirty years of service, the 82-year-old priest didn't even mention the parish hall or new church he built, but replied, "I've never been arrested."
 
But the more than 2000 parishioners who withstood the Sunday weather and attended Wolohan's retirement reception in the parish hall had more to say about their beloved pastor than just his clean police record.
 
"His sermons were geared to the entire parish. He could speak to the young, the old, and the middle-aged, so that everyone could get meaning from his lectures. He filled his speeches with humor and intent," one man said, who had heard Wolohan speak during the past thirty years.
 
A predominant theme of Wolohan's sermons, another man offered, was his tremendous concern for children in need of care and the lonely.
 
"He had a soft spot in his heart for children. He always worried about children, afraid they were going without something they needed. He always helped his parishioners, he was always on the giving side," the man said, who goes to Mass daily at St. Michael's.
 
And although Wolohan may at times appear gruff, shunning any show of attention, parishioners said the rectory property had fourteen bird feeders and the pastor could be eyed feeding squirrels on many early mornings.
 
For three hours, a constant line of people streamed through the hall, expressing praise and affection to their priest. Many people stopped and said hello to the infamous "Mac," or Miss MacDoughal, Wolohan's faithful companion, a Scotch terrier.
 
Although it's difficult to get Wolohan to say anything about himself --- questioned if he likes to read, he replied, "Well, I can read," Wolohan will share many anectodes about Mac.
 
"One day a woman from the parish came to see me. Mac kept sticking her nose in the woman's purse. I was a little embarrassed and said, "Mac, get out of there. That's thievery." Come to find out, she could smell the woman's liver pills," Wolohan recalled, with an impish laugh.
 
Born in Holyoke, Wolohan was ordained fifty-seven years ago and spent thirty years of his ministry at St. Michael's. During his station here, he was the driving force behind the construction of the new church, a parish hall, and the rejuvenation of a catechism program for parish youths.
 
According to the Reverend Robert J. Coonan, assistant pastor, who has been stationed here for 9 1/2 years and describes Wolohan as a "bright man with a sharp mind and wit," the elderly priest also organized the St. Vincent de Paul Society, which sponsors drives for the parish poor and needy.
 
Next Sunday, Wolohan will deliver his final sermon to his parish. Symbolically, he first came to St. Michael's on the last Sunday in January 1949.
 
In his retirement, Wolohan will live in the 16 Acres section of Springfield. As for his retirement plans, he thought a moment then said, "I don't know. Ask me a year from now unless you got any ideas." 
 
 
Father Wolohan with the 1970 Confraternity of Christian Doctrine graduating class, St. Michael's Roman Catholic Church, in April 1970. For names, see this photo on the K Thru 12th After School page. Photo courtesy of Rich Mondoux.
 
 
Father Wolohan's headstone in Calvary Cemetery, Holyoke, MA.
 
 
Reverse side of Father Wolohan's headstone. His name is the fourth one down on the left side, showing his year of passing in 1986, but not his year of birth.
 
 
Reverend Kenneth R. Teed
(1904-1985)
Pastor, First Congregational Church, 1956-1964
 
 
The Reverend Kenneth R. Teed, 81, of Storrs, Conn., died at home in April 1985.
 
Teed formerly served at the United Church of Christ, Westhampton, Mass. and the First Congregational Church of East Longmeadow, Mass. He later served in a Willimantic,
Conn. church before he retired several years ago.
 
His late first wife was the former Olive Mitchell. His late second wife was Pauline F. Teed.
 
He leaves two sons, Bruce and K. Philip; a daughter, Ellen Fowler; a sister, Marion Ingalls; seven grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren.
 
(Excerpted from the Springfield Union newspaper, Springfield, MA).
 

Photo in Mar. 23, 1964 Springfield Union newspaper with caption: A reception in the fellowship hall of the First Congregational Church of East Longmeadow  honored Rev. and Mrs. Kenneth R. Teed on Sunday afternoon. Reverend Teed, pastor of the church the past eight years, will assume a new post as associate minister of the Congregational Christian Conference of Maine. Pictured at the reception were Rev. James R. Hansen, the church minister of education; Rev. and Mrs. Teed; Rev. Albert J. Penner, president of the Massachusetts Congregational Christian Conference; and Rev. Kenneth D. Beckwith, area minister of Western Massachusetts.

Excerpts from the article accompanying the above photo:
 
The First Congregational Church was filled to overflowing for the service and tribute Sunday afternoon honoring Reverend and Mrs. Kenneth R. Teed, and more than 500 attended the farewell reception in fellowship hall following the service.
 
The Teeds will leave April 1 for Maine where Mr. Teed will be associate minister of the Congregational Christian Conference of Main.
 
Among those present were town officials, members and friends of the church, and townspeople and clergy of the town and area.
 
Rev. James R. Hansen, minister of education, welcomed the audience and paid tribute to Mr. Teed on behalf of the local church. Rev. William R. Valentine, Jr., of the East Longmeadow Methodist Church, said Mr. Teed, "would rather pray than promote and he will never lose his expectancy."
 
Richard E. Hickey, chairman of the Board of Selectmen, expressed appreciation in a personal and official capacity for Mr. Teed's eight years service to the congregation and this town.
 
Rev. Charles E. Cobb, of St. John's Congregational Church, Springfield, spoke of Mr. Teed's sincerity in supporting the cause of equal justice and opportunity, his sensitivity, and his suppoort in the racial struggle through the years.
 
The Teeds were presented a record player and purse by the congregation and their friends and associates in the town and area.
 
Mr. Teed, in acknowledging the tributes, said the response and support in this church has been exceptional. "Churches make ministers more than ministers make churches," he said. 
 
 
Reverend Goran Theodore Forsberg
(1906-1972)
Pastor, St. Paul Lutheran Church, 1950-1961
 
 
 
Rev. Forsberg in 1950 and in 1961.
 
The Reverend Goran Theodore Forsberg passed away on Thursday, Oct. 19, 1972 in Concord, NH. 
 
Here are excerpts from an article in the Jan. 11, 1961 Springfield Union newspaper, on the occasion of Rev. Forsberg's acceptance of a new pastorate in Shrewsbury, MA:
 
Rev. G. Theodore Forsberg, pastor of St. Paul's Lutheran Church, has announced his resignation and his acceptance of a call to become pastor of Mount Olivet Lutheran Church in Shrewsbury, Mass. He will preach his final sermon here Jan. 29 and will assume his new pastorate Feb. 5.
 
Mr. Forsberg has been pastor of St. Paul's for 10 1/2 years, during which time the church membership has about doubled, to a total of 280. The growth brought about the need for larger facilities and during the past few years he has been active in the planning of a new church and parish hall, which is under construction at Elm St. and Mapleshade Ave. The present church building on Somers Rd., now 70 years old, is being purchased by the East Longmeadow Grange for use as a grange hall.
 
A native of Erie, Pa., Mr. Forsberg was graduated from Upsala College, East Orange, N.J., with an AB degree, and from Augustana Lutheran Theological Seminary in Rock Island, Ill., where he received his BD degree. He was ordained in Jamestown, N.Y. in June 1931, and went to Concord N.H. where he was pastor of the Concordia Lutheran Church for 16 years. He then served as pastor of Immanuel Lutheran Church in Portland, Me. for two years before coming here in August 1950. This is Mr. Forsberg's 30th year in the ministry. 
 
 
The Forsberg family headstone in Laurel Hill Cemetery, Millcreek Township, PA.
 
 
Rev. Forsberg's marker.
 
 
Reverend Basil J. Rafferty
(1904-1971)
Pastor, St. Paul's Roman Catholic Church, 1960-1971
 
 
Note: Although St. Paul's Church has a Springfield postal address, the land and church are located in East Longmeadow.
 
The Reverend Basil J. Rafferty, 67, pastor of St. Paul's Church, Springfield, was pronounced dead on arrival at Mercy Hospital last night, Nov. 24, 1971.
 
Father Rafferty was visiting at the home of a friend on Pine Street when he collapsed of an apparent heart attack and was taken to the hospital by police ambulance.
 
Father Rafferty celebrated his fortieth year in the priesthood this past summer, having been ordained a priest Jul. 265, 1931 in his parish church, Corpus Christi, in Housatonic. The Most Reverend Thomas M. O;Leary, then bishop of the Springfield Roman Catholic Doicese, officated.
 
Father Rafferty wrote several plays himself, two of which received wide recognition: "Ecce Homin," a passion play on the life of Christ, and "Catherine of Sienna," a play based on life in the thirteenth century.
 
A graduate of St. Anselm College, Father Rafferty entered the American College at the University of Louvain, Belgium. While at St. Anselm he participated in baseball, basketball, and tennis. He was a member of the New England Basketball Referees Association, officiating at many basketball games in Manchester, N.H.
 
While stationed at Holy Trinity Parish in Greenfield, he was instrumental in establishing a unique organization for youth in that area, having drawn up plans, written the ritual, and established the by-laws for the organization, called the "Beta Chi Rho."
 
Father Raffety served at Holy Trinity for ten years as assistant pastor, and held the same position at St. Mary's Church, Longmeadow.
 
He was the founding pastor of St. Paul's Church, Dwight Road, Springfield, having been instrumental int he construction of the new parish in 1960.
 
Born in Housatonic, he was the son of the late Patrick and Bridget (Gallager) Rafferty. He leaves one brother, Clement, of Housatonic.
 
Contributions may be made to the St. Paul's Church building fund in memory of Reverend Rafferty.
 
(Excerpted from the Springfield Union newspaper, Springfield, MA).
 
 
In September 1966, Reverend Rafferty is presented with a memorial donation for a stained glass window from Robert D. O'Brien, past president of the St. Paul's Men's Club. Photo courtesy of the Springfield Union newspaper.
 
 
The Rafferty family headstone, including the inscription of Rev. Rafferty, in Saint Bridget's Cemetery, Great Barrington, MA.
 
 
Reverend Paul A. Zanini, C.S.S., D.D. 
(Congregation of the Sacred Stigmata, Doctor of Divinity)
(1901-1970)
Pastor and rector, St. Joseph's Roman Catholic Church, 1967-1970 (see note below)
 
 
Note: Rev. Zanini served as pastor of Our Lady of Mount Carmel Roman Catholic Church, Springfield, MA from 1967-1969. Included in its pastorate was the mission church of St. Joseph, East Longmeadow. In June 1969, due to poor health, Rev. Zanini resigned as pastor of Mount Carmel Church, but still wishing to remain active in the priesthood, he accepted the office of rector at St. Joseph's Church.
 
The Reverend Paul A. Zanini, C.S.S., D.D., 68, a former pastor of Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church and a priest for over 44 years, died yesterday afternoon, Mar. 9, 1970 in White Plains, New York.
 
Father Zanini was born Nov. 27, 1901 in Goshen, Ohio, the son of Albina and Josephine (Wisinteiner) Zanini. He returned to Italy as an infant and began his religious studies in 1913 at Casa Studentato, S.S. Trinita in Verona. He became a postulant in 1917 and a novice in Pistoia, Italy in 1918. He was transferred to Milano to complete his studies and was ordained there Apr. 3, 1926. He studied philosophy and theology in Rome, Milan and Verona, receiving the degree of doctor of theology in Milan in 1926 and the degree of doctor of philosophy in 1928 from the University of Padua.
 
After his ordination, his first assignment was as prefect and teacher of students in the Minor Seminary. He was also assistant to the Master of Novices. He was renowned and appreciated as an excellent teacher of Moral Theology, Cannal Law and Dogma, both in Italy and this country. In 1928, he was made rector of the Stigmatine Seminary in Udina at the age of 27. This was done by special dispensation of Pope Pius XI because he was the youngest ever to receive this honor.
 
Teaching assignments followed in rapid succession throughout Italy: Udine in 1929, Trent in 1933, and Rome in 1934. In 1934, he was appointed director general of the Stigmatine Foreign Missions which at that time included missions in China. In 1938, the Holy Father appointed him to a Pontifical Commission for the direction and inspection of all parochial schools.
 
In 1940, he came to America, assigned to teach in the Major Seminary in Wellesley and was appointed professor of theology there. Nearly every priest assigned to Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church has had Father Zanini as a teacher and all speak of his dedication and vast knowledge of theology. A strict disciplinarian, he is remembered by all students who had him as a teacher. He taught the late Father Torretta who he followed as pastor of Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church and the Rev. Camillo Santini, C.S.S., who replaced him last June.
 
In 1942, he became acting pastor of Sacred Heart Church, Milford, was reassigned in 1943 as assistant pastor in Lynn, and in 1945, as assistant pastor in Salem and White Plains, New York.
 
In 1949, he was first assigned as assistant pastor of Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church in Springfield. He stayed only a short time, being assigned as rector of St. Joseph's Mission Church in East Longmeadow in 1951. The following year, he became pastor of Sacred Heart Church in Timmons, Ontario, Canada.
 
His longest assignment came in 1955, when he became rector of All Souls Church in Pittsfield. He remained there for seven years during which time he built a new church.
 
In September 1967, when Father Torretta was reassigned, Father Zanini returned to Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church as pastor. Plagued by illness most of his life, Father Zanini soon found the enormous burdens of such a large parish too much for his poor health, and in June 1969, he announced his resignation. Still wishing to remain active in the priesthood, he accepted the office of rector of St. Joseph's Mission Church, East Longmeadow. 
 
Father Zanini leaves two brothers, Joseph and Cesare Zanini, both of Flushing, N.Y. and a sister, Mrs. Mary Zanon of Woodside, N.Y.
 
(Excerpted from the Springfield Union newspaper, Springfield, MA).
 
 
Rev. Zanini's marker in Sacred Heart of Jesus Cemetery, Milford, MA.
 
 
Reverend Ralph C. Crandall
(1897-1961)
Pastor, First Methodist Church, 1943-1961
 
 
Reverend Ralph C. Crandall, pastor of the First Methodist Church in East Longmeadow, collapsed and died on Wednesday, Mar. 8, 1961 shortly before he was to present an address at the luncheon meeting of the Kiwanis Club of Holyoke.
 
He had made a trip to the Holy Land this past summer. He collapsed just before the meeting as he was setting up his equipment to show slides.
 
Mr. Crandall, who served First Methodist Church longer than any other pastor, began his eighteenth year at the East Longmeadow church last November. During his years there, the church grew in membership and attendance. Two Sunday morning services were instituted, a parish hall was built for religious education and church activities, and a new parsonage was purchased to replace one that had been in use for close to 100 years. The church, which is 107 years old, was renovated as well.
 
Mr. Crandall went to East Longmeadow for a temporary appointment in 1943, preaching his first sermon there on November 21 of that year.
 
In January he was named to the Massachusetts Council of Churches to assist in the promotion of new evangelistic endeavors in this region. He was one of twelve clergymen of different denominations working together.
 
He was executive secretary of evangelism for the New England Conference of the Methodist Church, a member of the Greater Springfield Council of Churches, the Lions Club of East Longmeadow, Charles Spellman Lodge of Masons, East Longmeadow Grange, and Hampden Lodge of Odd Fellows.
 
Besides his wife, Mildred (Myers) Crandall, he leaves a brother, Edward Crandall, of Springfield; and a sister, Mrs. Edward Burke of Agawam.
 
The family suggests that those who wish may make contributions to the East Longmeadow Methodist Church memorial fund.
 
(Excerpted from the Springfield Union newspaper, Springfield, MA). 
 
*                                                 *                                               * 
 
Here are some tributes from articles in the Springfield Union newspaper following Rev. Crandall's passing:
 
Gerard Pellegrini, chairman of the Board of Selectmen, said, "By his living example of Christian brotherhood, Mr. Crandall was a stabilizing influence in the civic as well as religious life of our town."
 
A fellow minister, Rev. Kenneth R. Teed, pastor of First Congregational Church, spoke of Mr. Crandall as "a fine, faithful minister whose death is a great shock to us all." He brought a great deal of comfort and happiness to many people, Mr. Teed said, and was loved and respected by all who knew him. Mr. Teed added Mr. Crandall was the No. 1 man in the hearts of the people, and during his ministry had brought comfort, concern, and above all, laughter to all he knew. "It was a laughter to lift men's burdens, repel their despair, lighten their darkness, and confront them with joy," he said. "He was an evangelist from dawn to dark, from Sunday to Sunday, and from beginning to end."
 
Rev. H. Hughes Wagner, pastor of Trinity Methodist Church, also referred to his sparkling sense of humor and said Mr. Crandall represented a living expression of Christian loving. He was a youth leader in Trinity Church when he decided to enter the ministry, Dr. Wagner said, and was ordained after he started preaching. "We have been blessed by his life and will be blessed by his memory," Dr. Wagner said. 
 
 
On Apr. 5, 1956, members of the Couples Club of the East Longmeadow Methodist Church paid tribute to their beloved pastor in the form of a facsimile telecast, modeled after the "This is Your Life" television program. Attended by 300 people gathered at the parish house of the First Congregational Church, the event came as a complete surprise to Rev. Crandall, although parishioners and friends knew about it in advance. Here, called out of the audience by master of ceremonies John Lundgren (left), Rev. Crandall is led to the stage to play the star role in "This is Your Life." Among the gifts presented to Rev. Crandall was a leather-covered blank book entitled "Life Begins," quoting a sermon of his in March 1956 when he said some day he would like to write a book on how life begins not at forty but the day you want it to begin.
 
 
As a climax to the program on Apr. 5, 1956, Mr. Karl Bailey presented Rev. Crandall an oil portrait of himself, telling him, "This oil painting is given in memory of your many years of faithful service and the accomplishments of which we are all so proud."
 
 
Rev. Crandall's marker in Hillcrest Park Cemetery, Springfield, MA.