Class of 1973

 
On this page, we remember and honor members of the Class of 1973 who have passed away. Three years behind us, they played an important role in enriching our experience, often as fellow members in extracurricular activities.
 
To see other tributes, click on the "Life Tributes" link to the left and then on the page of interest.
 
Please contact us with additional names.
 
Legend: Name (married last name)
 
2023
Mark Nooney (brother of classmate Ralph Nooney)
 
2022
Vincent "Vinny" Villamaino (brother of classmate Teresa Villamaino Lalli)
 
2020
 
2019
 
2018
 
2017
 
2016
 
2014
 
2013
 
2011
 
2009
William "Bill" Reis (brother of classmate Bob Reis)
 
2006
 
2004
 
2001
 
1999
 
1994
  
1975
 
 
Mark Nooney
(1955-2023)
 
 
 
Mark in 1973 (senior portrait) and later in life.
 
Mark David Nooney, 68, passed away peacefully at his home on Tuesday, Dec. 26, 2023.
 
Mark was born in Stafford, CT on Sep. 2, 1955 to the late Ralph H. and Priscilla J. (Howes) Nooney.
 
He grew up in East Longmeadow, MA and graduated from East Longmeadow High School.
 
Mark went on to earn his Bachelor of Arts degree from Westfield Stage College. His early career was in restaurant management. Later, he was in sales and excelled in selling everything from ice cream to Harley Davidson motorcycles. Mark moved to Satellite Beach, FL in 2007 to enjoy his retirement.
 
He was an avid motorcyclist and automotive enthusiast. Mark enjoyed collecting and restoring vintage cars and motorcycles. He was a member of several Corvette and other car groups and frequented car shows. Whether it was the purr of a well-tuned engine or the gleam of a polished chrome bumper, Mark found solace in the timeless beauty of these machines.
 
Beyond his mechanical pursuits, Mark was a valued member of a 12-step fellowship for over 35 years, where he found strength, support, and a community that mirrored the resilience that he displayed in every facet of his life. His journey towards healing and self-discovery became an inspiration to many.
 
Mark leaves the love of his life, his wife, Barbara (Baer) Nooney of Satellite Beach, FL; his children, David Nooney and his wife, Megan of Oxford, MA; and Priscilla Schimkus and her husband, Matt, of Melbourne, FL; two grandchildren; his sisters Deborah Witham of East Windsor, CT, and Brenda Nooney of East Longmeadow, MA; and several nieces and nephews.

Mark will be sadly missed by his faithful companion, Tobi. He was predeceased by his parents and his brother, Ralph Nooney in 1967.
 
In lieu of flowers, please consider a memorial contribution in Mark's name to: The Barton Center for Diabetes Education, Inc., 30 Ennis Rd., PO Box 356, North Oxford, MA 01537-0356; email: info@bartoncenter.org; phone: 508-987-2056.
 
(Excerpted from The Republican newspaper, Springfield, MA).
 
 Mark's remains will be interred in Bethany Cemetery, Monson, MA.
 
 
Richard Tremblay
(1955-2022)
 
 
 
Richard in 1973 (senior portrait) and later in life.
 
Richard Warren Tremblay, 67, of East Longmeadow, died peacefully on Thursday, Oct. 5, 2022, surrounded by love.

Richard was born in Newton, MA to the late Richard W. Tremblay and Jean Whalen Tremblay. He was predeceased by his brother, John Tremblay.
 
Richard worked for over 30 years in the maintenance department of the bulk mail center in Springfield. He was thrilled to retire at age 54 with his full pension.

He took many cross-country trips and especially enjoyed trips to Hawaii with his family, where boating and snorkeling were among the happy memories created and cherished.
 
Richard was an avid reader of nonfiction, history, and mysteries. He enjoyed many lively conversations with his friends at the Cigar Room. His keen sense of humor will be missed by all who knew him.
 
Richard served in the U.S. Navy and was a lifetime member of the Disabled American Veterans.
 
Richard leaves behind his sister, Maryann Montrym (John) of Chatham, MA and Los Altos Hills, CA; a niece, and two nephews.
 
Richard will be missed and loved forever.

(Excerpted from The Republican newspaper, Springfield, MA).
 
 
Vincent "Vinny" Villamaino
(1954-2022)
 
 
 
Vincent in 1973 (senior portrait) and later in life.
 
Vincent John Villamaino, 67, died peacefully at home, surrounded by his family, on Thursday, Aug. 25, 2022.
 
Born in Springfield, MA to the late Encrico and Carmella (Zuccalo) Villamaino, he was a graduate of East Longmeadow High School and attended American International College.
 
A longtime Hampden resident, he owned and operated Villamaino Paving with his brothers Rick and Dave. He was a dedicated member of the Hampden Lions Club, having received the distinguished Melvin Jones Fellow Award. 
 
Vinny was an active member of the Hampden VFW Post 9397, supporting many events for the veterans of the community. He especially loved the Sunday turkey shoots. He was also a member of the Knights of Columbus and ITAM Post 64. He was particularly proud of the town of Hampden and was a member of the Hampden Board of Selectmen for 12 years.
 
Vinny had a passion for sports, coaching many youth teams over the years. He was very proud of coaching the girls' basketball teams at East Longmeadow High School.
 
Vinny was a proud Spartan, earning hall of fame recognition as a member of the undefeated football team from 1972. Vinny loved to golf and was a member of Elmcrest Country Club for many years, and most recently the Great Horse Country Club.
 
Vinny is survived by his beloved wife of 41 years, Anne-Marie (Borden) Villamaino; their three devoted children Nicholas Villamaino (Graziana Esposito), Timothy Villamaino and his partner, Jennifer Meade, and Katie Villamino and her partner, Frank D'Agostino; brothers Enrico Villamaino (Nancy), David Villamaino (Terry); sisters Teresa Lalli and Margaret Pietroniro; brother-in-law David Cronin; one granddaughter; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins. In addition to his parents, Vinny was predeceased by his sister, Katherine Cronin and brother-in-laws Bruno Lalli and Joe Pietroniro.
 
The family would like to acknowledge the special care Vinny received from the nurses at Sister Caritas Cancer Center and many others at Mercy Medical Center.
 
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Hampden VFW Post 9397, c/o Pat Ledoux, 190 Main St., Hampden, MA 01036, or the Massachusetts Lions Eye Research Fund, c/o James Roth, 43 Stewart Terrance, Belmont, MA 02478.
 
(Excerpted from The Republican newspaper, Springfield, MA).
 
 Vinny's remains are interred in the Most Holy Redeemer Mausoleum at Gate of Heaven Cemetery, Springfield, MA.
 
 
Steven Nimmo
(1955-2022)
 
 
 
Steven in 1973 (senior portrait) and later in life.
 
Steven L. Nimmo, 66, of East Longmeadow, passed away on Wednesday, Mar. 30, 2022.

He was born in Springfield to the late Richard and Margaret (Leslie) Nimmo. Steven graduated from East Longmeadow High School and then went on to become a machinist for a few local companies, spending the majority of his career at the J.C. Tarbell Company of East Longmeadow. 
 
He enjoyed spending time in the outdoors, hunting when he was younger with his father and brother, as well as fishing and camping with family and friends. He was also a former member of the East Longmeadow Masonic Lodge.

Steve was predeceased by his parents and his brother, Richard Nimmo, Jr. (ELHS 1972). He is survived by his son, David Nimmo of Stafford Springs, CT; his daughter, Bonnie Nimmo of Davenport, FL; and his sister, Tammy Nimmo of West Springfield.

Memorial donations in Steven's name can be made to St. Jude's Children's Hospital.
 
(Excerpted from The Republican newspaper, Springfield, MA).
 
 
Carl Thodal
(1955-2022)
 
 
 
Carl in 1973 (senior portrait) and later in life.
 
Carl Thodal passed away on Jan. 23, 2022, according to a relative. He was residing in Carson City, NV.
 
Carl was a published and respected hydrologist for the state of Nevada.
 
His wife passed away about six months before Carl passed. They had no children. His brother, David Thodal, ELHS 1971, passed away in 2017.
 
 
Barbara "Bonnie" McMahon (Cohen)
(1955-2020)
 
 
 
Bonnie in 1973 (senior portrait) and later in life.
 
Cohen, Barbara "Bonnie," 64, of Galloway, NJ. Sunrise Oct. 16, 1955 and Sunset Apr. 13, 2020. Passed peacefully in her home in the arms of her loving familty. Throughout a long illness, Bonnie showed resilience and grace. She is remembered as a survivor and led a remarkable life.
 
Bonnie was the loving and caring wife to her husband, Alan, to whom she was married for 37 wonderful years. She was the devoted mother to her sons Nathan and Neil, for whom she remains a beacon of light and a moral compass. Her face always lit up when she saw them, and they loved to make her laugh.

Wherever Bonnie lived, she built lasting friendships along the way. Friends from childhood, classmates, colleagues, and fellow parents found in her a bond of trust and confidence. She had a gift for listening that will be missed dearly, a quick-witted humor, and a wisdom beyond her years.
 
Bonnie was multitalented, hardworking, and smart. Raised in East Longmeadow, MA, she attended East Longmeadow High School, and earned a Bachelor of Arts in psychology from Muhlenberg College, receiving research grants and graduating cum laude in 1977.
 
She married her college best friend, Alan. They started their family in Northfield before settling in Galloway. Active in the lives of her sons, Bonnie held leadership positions in PTA, PTSA, Absegami Emanon Players Booster Club, and Cub Scouts Troop 86. Bonnie found her true calling working at Beth Israel Nursery School for over 25 years. She attended Atlantic Cape Community College, Early Childhood Education, fulfilling requirements for head teacher designation.
 
She loved the little ones and they loved her. In 2011, she brought her "Story Time with Miss Bonnie" to the Atlantic County Library, Brigantine Branch, where she worked for nine years, captivating and nurturing the imagination of generations of young readers. When she opened a book, kids gathered to listen. She blended her love of storytelling with an energetic invitation for children to join in the story, creating memorable events. Bonnie worked to develop the juvenile book collection and summer reading programs. Her story times are remembered by fellow booklovers at the library as "legend."
 
She is survived by her husband, Alan J. Cohen of Galloway, NJ; her son Nathan Cohen and Jane Whitty of Brooklyn, NY; her son Neil Cohen and Jamie Lee Felix of San Diego, CA: her loving mother, Patricia Gay McMahon of Springfield, MA; sister, Gay McDyer and her husband, Joseph of Feeding Hills, MA; and brother, Robert (Rob) and his wife, Kelley (Carroll) McMahon of Hopedale, MA. She was predeceased by her father, Robert P. McMahon, grandparents Joseph and Jessie McMahon; grandparents Chester and Mildred Gay, and dear friend, Leann Hemmelstein. She was known as Aunt Bonnie, "second mom," to her many nieces and nephews.
 
She is also missed by her brother-in-law, Bruce L. Cohen and wife, Debi of Forest Hills, NY; sister-in-law, Karen Meade of Lancaster, PA; brother-in-law, Barry Meade; two great-nieces; two great-nephews; lifelong friends Dr. Joanne Welch, Donald Audette, and Michele Davis; as well as friends far and wide, too numerous to mention.
 
Bonnie was appreciative of the care and treatment of Dr. Preeti Duheendra, Dr. Generosa Grana, and the staff at MD Anderson Cancer Center, Camden; and Dr. Chau Dang, Dr. Teresa Gilewski, and their staff at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Institute in New York. Her family would also like to thank Doreen, Anu, and John at Holy Redeemer Hospice Home Care for their service and respect.

In lieu of flowers or other expressions of love gifts, the family asks that donations be made to the Atlantic County Library Foundation, Brigantine Branch, in honor and memory of Bonnie Cohen and "Story Time with Miss Bonnie." The address is Atlantic County Library Foundation, 40 Farragut Ave., Mays Landing, NJ 08330.

(Excerpted from the website of the Roth-Goldsteins' Memorial Chapel LLC, Atlantic City NJ).
 
 
Carrie Walker
(1955-2019)
 
 
Carrie's senior portrait.
 
Carrie Walker passed away peacefully on Sunday, Dec. 15, 2019 at Baystate Medical Center.
 
The daughter of the late George and Rena (Alberghini) Walker, she was born in Springfield on Feb. 3, 1955.
 
She was a longtime resident of East Longmeadow and was a resident of Armbrook Village in Westfield for the past four years.
 
She was a 1973 graduate of East Longmeadow High School. She also received two associate degrees from Springfield Technical Community College.
 
She had been employed by Springborn Labs and MacDonald & Johnson Insurance.
 
Carrie was an excellent seamstress who enjoyed making her own clothes, loved playing softball in her younger years, was an avid reader, and recently enjoyed painting.
 
She leaves brothers George Jr. (Linda) of Springfield and Robert (Debra) of East Longmeadow; her nephews Robert Jr. and Daniel; and niece and goddaughter, Ashley.
 
The family would like to thank the staff at Holyoke and Baystate Medical Centers for the care and compassion they gave Carrie. The family would also like to thank the staff at Armbrook Village for their outstanding care and loving compassion they extended to Carrie. It will be forever appreciated.
 
(Excerpted from The Republican newspaper, Springfield, MA).
 
 
Carrie's headstone in St. Michael's Cemetery, Springfield, MA. The names of Carrie's parents, George and Rena Walker are also inscribed on the headstone. Photo credit: Mark Wing (www.markwing.com).
 
 
James Banning
(1953-2018)
 
 
 
James during his junior year and later in life.
 
James R. Banning, Jr., 65, passed away peacefully at home on Thursday, May 3, 2018, with his loving family at his side.
 
Born Feb. 1, 1953, the son of Marjorie D. (Spaulding) and the late James R. Banning, Sr., he had been a Chicopee resident for over forty years.
 
A graduate of East Longmeadow High School, James worked as a machinist for local companies.
 
He was an avid fisherman and outdoor enthusiast, enjoyed gardening, and never passed up an opportunity to lighten someone's day with a joke or good-natured prank.
 
Besides his caring mother, Marjorie D. Banning of East Longmeadow, James is survived by his beloved wife of forty-three years, Nancy J. (Czuchra) Banning; loving children Scott M. Banning and his wife, Ashley of Chicopee, and Amy M. Deacon and her husband, Matthew of Westfield; brothers Brian Banning of Monson and Bruce Banning of Longmeadow; cherished granddaughter, Savannah; and two grandsons.
 
(Excerpted from The Republican newspaper, Springfield, MA). 
 
 James' remains are interred in Saint Rose de Lima Cemetery, Chicopee, MA. 
 
 
Edward Stawiarz
(1955-2017)
 
 
Edward's senior portrait.
 
A 62 year old resident of Warren, MA was killed in a car crash on Main St., Saturday, Dec. 2, 2017.
 
Edward Stawiarz was brought to Mary Lane Hospital in Ware after the about 5 p.m. crash and was pronounced dead, Warren police said.
 
A witness who was behind the car Stawiarz was driving, said the driver was traveling eastbound very slowly. When he approached the intersection of North and South St., the light turned red but he didn't stop. He then veered to the left, drove onto the sidewalk, up the embankment, and struck a Verizon utility box, police said.
 
When police, firefighters, and emergency medical technicians arrived, they found the 2005 Pontiac Vibe sideways across the road and saw the driver was unresponsive. They performed CPR at the scene and rushed Stawiarz to the hospital, police said.
 
(Excerpted from The Republican newspaper, Springfield, MA).
 
 
Donna Harwood (Puzzo)
(1955-2017)
 
 
 
Donna in 1973 (senior portrait) and later in life.
 
Donna left this earth peacefully, at home, surrounded by loved ones on Tuesday, Aug. 22, 2017.
 
She was born to the late Robert H. and Beverly B. (Sayward) Harwood in Virginia.
 
Donna graduated from East Longmeadow High School in 1973. She began her family soon after.
 
Donna lived her life between Massachusetts and New Hampshire and always gave all she could to her kids and family.
 
She battled cancer for 10 1/2 years and always did so with a smile. She refused to let her illness define her.
 
She enjoyed reading, baking, spending time with grandchildren, and traveling with her true love, her husband, Mark. They were together for over 30 years.
 
Donna was predeceased by her younger brother, Robert H. Harwood, Jr. She leaves her husband, Mark Puzzo; her daughters Penny and husband, Leo Pilares, Jaime and husband Matthew Savageau, all of Westfield, and Chelsea Puzzo of Utah; and her sons Justin Thompson of Utah, Ryan Puzzo of Florida, and Dominick Puzzo of Kentucky. She also leaves her grandchildren Jenna Pilares, Coral Savageau, Kayla Thompson, Curtis Maisey, and Ryan Puzzo, Jr.; her sister, Nancy Pride and husband, Duane; brothers David Harwood and Raymond Harwood and wife, Teri; as well as many nieces, nephews, cousins, and extended family.
 
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Donna's name may be made to the American Thyroid Association at www.thyroid.org.
 
(Excerpted from the website of the Wilbraham Funeral Home, Wilbraham, MA).
 
 
Linda Tesini (Garlick)
(1955-2016)
 
 
Linda's senior portrait.
 
Linda J. Garlick, 61, a lifelong East Longmeadow resident, passed away on Sunday, Sep. 4, 2016 at Baystate Medical Center.
 
She was born in Springfield, MA on Aug. 16, 1955, a daughter of the late Adolpho and Barbara (Hiller) Tesini.
 
She was a graduate of East Longmeadow High School and was self-employed as a housekeeper.
 
She is survived by her son, Andy Ralph of Agawam; three brother, Alan (Susan) Tesini of Zephyrhills, FL, Stephen (Tina) of South Hadley, and Carl (Ronda) Tesini of Idaho. She also leaves two sisters, Donna (Kenneth) Langdon of Springfield, and Karen (Joseph) Chlosta of East Longmeadow. She will also be missed by two grandchildren, Amelia Ralph and Keith Roy; and great-grandchild, Kaden Roy. She was predeceased by her son, Jeremy Garlick.
 
(Excerpted from The Republican newspaper, Springfield, MA).
 
 
John Kelly
(1955-2016)
 
 
 
John in 1973 (senior portrait) and later in life.
 
John J. Kelly, 61, of Merrimack, NH, passed away on Friday, Aug. 19, 2016, following a lengthy illness. He passed at his home, just as he wished.
 
He was born on Mar. 27, 1955 in Springfield, MA to the late Thomas and Ramona (Ingraham) Kelly.
 
Befpre retiring, he worked as a commercial fisherman for Robert Francis Fishing.
 
Along with his parents, he was predeceased by a sister, Deirdre Nelligan, and a stepbrother, Thomas Gallagher.
 
John is survived by his sister, Deborah Lyons and her husband, Ronald; a nephew, Robert Lyons; two nieces, Jacqueline and Meredith Lyons; ex-wife and best friend, Joanne Diaz; former stepdaughter, Jessica Anderson and her fiancé, Cory Wharton; seven grandchildren, Travis, Emilia, Izaiah, Patrick, Madeline, William, and McKenzie; two step brothers, Francis and Peter Gallagher; four stepsisters, Lorretta Forsythe, Sheila Lilly, Diane Biscaldi, and Brenda Galluci; along with several close friends, Charlotte Thomas, Thomas Lunt, and Bill W.
 
(Excerpted from The Republican newspaper, Springfield, MA).
 
 
Brian O'Connor
(1955-2016)
 
 
Brian later in life.
 
Brian Michael O'Connor, 60, of East Longmeadow, passed away on Wednesday, Apr. 6, 2016 at Mercy Medical Center.
 
Born in Springfield on May 16, 1955, he was the son of the late Dennis J. and Angela (Rivers) O'Connor.
 
Brian was a true outdoorsman. He lived for the hunting and fishing seasons and could often be found in camouflage in the woods with his friends.
 
A jack of all trades, Brian could fix anything with an engine, especially cars and boats. He was a gifted tradesman, and could build, repair, or renovate anything that was asked of him.
 
More than his talents was how he chose to use them, helping any friend or stranger who asked for his assistance. He gave of himself and was a loyal friend to so many, who will truly miss him.
 
He leaves to cherish his memory his three siblings, Dennis J. O'Connor of East Longmeadow, Erin Lynch and her husband, James of Bedford, NH, and Kara Caillouette and her husband, Wayne of Longmeadow. He loved more than anything his three nieces and one nephew, Alanna, Emma, Hannah, and Samuel. Brian also leaves a special cousin, Rosemary Stella.
 
Memorial donations may be made to The Nature Conservancy in Massachusetts, Membership Dept., PO Box 6016, Albert Lea, MN 56007-9987.
 
(Excerpted from The Republican newspaper, Springfield, MA).
 
 
Joanne Williams (Wheeler)
(1955-2014)
 
 
 
Joanne in her junior year and later in life.
 
Joanne L. Wheeler, 59, of Tahanto St., Concord, NH, died Monday, Dec. 29, 2014 at CRVNA Hospice House, peacefully surrounded by her beloved family.
 
She was born in Springfield, MA, the daughter of the late Thomas A. and Eileen T. (Whitaker) Williams.
 
Most recently, Joanne worked as a Licensed Nursing Assistant for Concord Hospital.
 
Everyone Joanne met she made feel loved. To her, each person was a best friend in their own special way. 
 
She was a fabulous cook and caretaker of many. She loved being outdoors, camping in her Honda Element, kayaking, fishing, and hiking. She lived by her favorite motto: "It's not the destination, it's the journey."
 
Joanne is survived by her two daughters, Beth Ann Wheeler and Karen Wheeler of Concord; a grandson, Tyler Wheeler of Concord; her five sisters, Fran St. Hill of Feeding Hills, MA; Eleanor Stevens of North Billerica, MA; Barbara Darnell of Provo, UT; Linda Shepherd of Newport, NH; and Nancy Williams of Westfield, MA; many nieces and nephews; her close friend, Paul Winter and his daughter, Hannah; and her beloved cat, Mica.
 
(Excerpted from The Concord Monitor newspaper, Concord, NH).
 
 Joanne's remains are interred in Soucook Cemetery, Concord, NH.
 
 
Laurent "Larry" Angers
(1955-2013)
 
 
 
Larry in 1973 (senior portrait) and later in life.
 
Laurent "Larry" Arthur Angers II, loving son, brother, uncle, nephew, and cousin, passed away unexpectedly on Wed., July 24, 2013 at his home in Ashfield, MA at the age of 58.
 
Born in Springfield on Jan. 6, 1955, the dear son of Nancy J. (Johnson) Angers and the late Pierre A. Angers II, he resided in Ashfield for the past 30 years.
 
Larrry graduated from East Longmeadow High School and attended Lyndon State College, which is located in the Northeast kingdom of Vermont.
 
He was the head chef at the Lake House Restaurant in Ashfield for almost 20 years. Larry was a wonderful chef who loved to cook and truly enjoyed living on the pond in Ashfield, and in his younger years, he would spent much of his time fishing there.
 
He loved the Red Sox and was also an avid fan of the Celtics, watching them on TV with friends whenever he could. One of the activities he most loved was skiing. It was a favorite family sport throughout the years, and he became a beautiful skier.
 
Besides his mother, Nancy of East Longmeadow, he is survived by his loving sisters, Deborah Ellison and her husband, Kurt of Concord, NH, and Julie Stenning of Tiverton, RI; his aunt, Susan Kilburn of East Longmeadow; two nieces, Katherine Carigen and Emily Stenning, two nephews, Andrew Ellison and Christopher Stenning; and three cousins, Beth Kipetz, Jonathan Kilburn, and Nancy Celetano.
 
In lieu of flowers, donations in Larry's name may be made to the Double Edge Theatre, 948 Conway Rd., Ashfield, MA 01330.
 
(Excerpted from The Recorder newspaper, Greenfield, MA).
 
 
Richard "Rick" Weaver
(1955-2011)
 
 
Rick's senior portrait.
 
Richard "Rick" E. Weaver, 56, passed peacefully at home in East Longmeadow, surrounded by his loving family, on Saturday, Oct. 22, 2011.
 
Born in Springfield, he was the son of Jacquelyn (Fenton) Weaver and the late Ewart Weaver.
 
Rick was a 1973 graduate of East Longmeadow High School and an All-American in the 100 meter breast stroke, a record he held for 30 years.
 
Rich earned his bachelor's degree in English at the University of Connecticut in 1977, where he placed 12th at Nationals in the 200 meter breast stroke.
 
During his esteemed career, he worked at Connecticut Mutual Life, Hartford, Phoenix Reinsurance, Enfield, CT, and at Employees Reinsurance Corporation, Avon, CT. He spent the last seven years as the senior underwriting director at Lincoln Financial Insurance Company, Hartford, CT.
 
Rick was a member of the Association of Home Office Underwriters, where he served on the executive council. He also volunteered for the Academy of Life Underwriting, where he designed exam questions and developed curriculum.
 
Rick was a member of Toast Masters, a swimmer, boat builder, and sailor. He loved flower gardening, and was such a wonderful story teller and writer. Above all, he was a devoted family man.
 
He is survived by his loving wife of 33 years, Ruth (Brigham) Weaver; his three sons, Michael R. Weaver and his fiancée, Na-Young Kim of Northampton, John E. Weaver and his fiancé, Leah Gernux of Enfield, CT, and Ethan W. Weaver of East Longmeadow; his daughter, Jennifer Dubac and her husband, Mark of Portland, OR; his granddaughter, Allana Dubac; his mother, Jacquelyn Weaver of Hampden; his two sisters, Lori Lyons and her husband, Bill of Belchertown; and Judy Gonyeau and her husband, David of Monson.
 
(Excerpted from The Republican newspaper, Springfield, MA).
 
 
Richard's marker in Billings Hill Cemetery, East Longmeadow, MA.
 
 
William "Bill" Reis
(1954-2009)
 
 
 
Bill in 1973 (senior portrait) and later in life.
 
William "Bill" J. Reis, 55, of Wolcott, CT, passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, Dec. 9, 2009 at Saint Mary's Hospital. He was the husband of Phyllis (Boyea) Reis.
 
Bill was born Sep. 20, 1954 in Grand Rapids, MI, the son of Rose (Moreth) Reis and the late Allen Reis.
 
He grew up in East Longmeadow, MA and attended Springfield Technical Community College, where he earned an associate's degree in engineering. He was the systems engineering manager of Conveyco Technologies in Bristol.
 
Bill had resided in Wolcott for 24 years and was a member of the Wolcott Lions Club for six years. He was a volunteer with the Wolcott Boy Scouts Troop 231 for 10 years; a mentor/advisor for the Wolcott High School FIRST Robotics Team 1071 for seven years, and enjoyed golf. Bill could fix anything and was known to his family and friends as "Mr. Fix-It,"
 
Besides his wife of 29 years, Phyllis, and his mother of Enfield, he leaves his sons, Bryan of California and Jonathan of Wolcott; his daughter, Courtney of Wolcott; his brothers, Richard of Massachusetts and Robert of New York; his sisters, Rosanne Pelletier of Connecticut, Linda McGrady of Massachusetts, and Susan Tower of New Hampshire; 11 nieces and nephews; and three great-nieces and great-nephews.
 
(Excerpted from The Republic-American, newspaper Waterbury, CT).
 
 Bill's remains are interred in Woodtick Cemetery, Wolcott, CT.
 
 
Karen Brown (Craven)
(1955-2006)
 
 
Karen's senior portrait.
 
Karen A. (Brown) Craven, 51, of East Longmeadow, died on Thursday, Sep. 14, 2006 at home surrounded by her loving family.
 
She was born in Springfield on Jul. 7, 1955, a daughter of Dr. James P. Brown and the late Muriel A. (Ryan) Brown. 
 
Karen was a 1973 graduate of East Longmeadow High School and had attended American International College in Springfield.
 
She was employed in the Longmeadow school department for 17 years and most recently had worked as a secretary to the principal at the Glenbrook Middle School in Longmeadow.
 
Karen was a communicant of St. Catherine of Siena Church in Springfield, and also served as a longtime Confraternity of Christian Doctrine teacher at St. Michael's Church in East Longmeadow.
 
Karen leaves her husband of 27 years, Richard A. Craven, Sr.; her children, Richard A. Craven, Jr. and his wife, Elizabeth of Agawam, and Sarah Emily Craven of East Longmeadow; her granddaughter, Andersen E. Craven; her father and her stepmother, Dr. James P. Brown and his wife, Mary M. Brown of Longmeadow; her father-in-law, Albert B. Craven, Sr. and Gloria Craven of Tarpon Springs, FL; her sisters, Kathleen M. Day andher husband, Stephen of Oakland, ME, Maryellen Donohoe of Acton, MA, and Margaret L. Sullivan of Lowell, MA; her stepsisters, Christine Rybacki and her husband, Stephen of East Longmeadow, and Colleen Cunningham of Port Orange, FL; her many aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, and nephews; and many friends, including her dear special friend, Stephanie Patsourakos of Acton, MA. In addition to her mother, Karen was predeceased by her brother, Kevin J. Brown, in 1983. 
 
Donations may be made in Karen's memory to the West Springfield Firefighters Relief Association, 44 Van Deene Ave., West Springfield, MA 01089, or to the Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commision District Office, 1 Federal St., Springfield, MA 01105.
 
(Excerpted from The Republican newspaper, Springfield, MA).
 
 
Karen's marker in Gate of Heaven Cemetery, Springfield, MA.
 
 
Peter Chipouras
(1954-2006)
 
 
Peter's senior portrait.
 
Peter S. Chipouras of Somers, CT, passed away Monday, Apr. 3, 2006. The cause was a car accident which happened while Peter was on business in Orlando, FL. He was 51.
 
A master of finance, Peter's career began with his family's stone business. He continued his work helping to develop the first national quarries in Saudi Arabia. He went on to develop the first pizza shops in Saudi Arabia, Pizza Sheikh.
 
He was the cofounder of Sterling Capital Partners of East Windsor, CT.
 
Peter grew up in East Longmeadow, MA. He was a past president and Paul Harris Fellow of the Somers Rotary Club and served on the Somers zoning board.
 
He was an expert skier, an optimistic golfer, a great cook, an enthusiastic gourmand, and a friend of Bill W's for 13 grateful years.
 
Besides his best friend, wife, and love of his life, Anne, he is survived by his son, Christoper; daughters, Dana and Katie; his mom, Eileen Chipouras of Enfield, CT (formerly of East Longmeadow); his sister, Cathy Croall and husband, Tom; his brother, Jay Chipouras and wife, Laura; and sister, Ann Rice and husband, Stephen; many adoring nieces and nephews, and countless friends who loved him. He was predeceased by his dad, Strati (Chip) Chipouras.
 
Peter's family would appreciate contributions to the Wilson House, PO Box 46, East Dorset, VT 05253, or the American Diabetes Association Memorial Program, PO Box 1132, Fairfax, VA 22038.
 
(Excerpted from The Republican newspaper, Springfield, MA).
 
 
Peter's marker in Center Cemetery, Somers, CT.
 
 
A headstone for Peter in Evergreen Cemetery, Rutland, VT.
 
 
Kenneth O'Connor
(1954-2004)
 
 
Kenneth during his freshman year.
 
Kenneth M. O'Connor, 50, formerly of Springfield, passed away on Monday, Dec. 27, 2004.
 
He leaves his three children, Christopher, Patrick, and Caitlin; his mother, Joan O'Connor of Delaware; and grandmother, Helene O'Connor of Springfield. He also leaves six brothers and sisters, Joanne Lupi, Mary Pagliaro, John and William O'Connor of Springfield, Patricia Dion of Hampden, and Kevin O'Connor of East Longmeadow.
 
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the O'Connor Children Trust, Premier Source Credit Union, PO Box 2642, Springfield, MA 01101-2642.
 
(Excerpted from The Republican newspaper, Springfield, MA).
 
 
Barbara Boucher
(1955-2001)
 
  
 
Barbara during her junior year.
 
Barbara J. Boucher, 45, of 99 Middle St.., Southampton, died Sunday, Jul. 8, 2001 at Baystate Medical Center in Springfield.
 
She was a saleswoman for Magic Moments Greeting Cards of Deer Park, Long Island, NY.
 
Born in Springfield, she lived in East Longmeadow for most of her life, before moving to Southampton 4 1/2 years ago. 
 
She leaves her mother, Lorraine M. Boucher of East Longmeadow, her fiancé, Ralph M. Donohue of Southampton; two brothers, Michael D. Boucher and Peter M. Boucher, both of East Longmeadow; and a sister, Christine B. Copping of Chester, VT.
 
Memorial contributions may be made to the Lupus Foundation of America, Connecticut Chapter, 97 South St., Suite 110, West Hartford, CT 06110-1960.
 
(Excerpted from The Republican newspaper, Springfield, MA).
 
 
Barbara's marker in Pleasant View Cemetery, Chester, VT.
 
 
Jean Phillips (Ference-Burack)
(1955-1999)
 
 
Jean's senior portrait.
 
Jean M. Ference-Burack, 44, of 157 Somers Rd., East Longmeadow, died Sunday, May 2, 1999 at Baystate Medical Center, Springfield.
 
She was the co-owner of the Quarry Hill Llamas, property manger for B & B Enterprises, and owner and operator of The Gift Box Ceramic Studio.
 
Born in Springfield, she was a longtime resident of East Longmeadow and involved in many community activities. She was a member of the First Congregational Church of East Longmeadow, past president of the Mountain View School PTO, and was involved in various llama associations.
 
She leaves her husband, Daniel Burack; a son, David M. Ference; two stepsons, Jeffrey and Gregory Burack; her mother, Alyce (Regan) Phillips; a brother, Jeffrey Phillips; and two sisters, Judith Bowen and Janet Young, all of East Longmeadow.
 
Memorial contributions may be made to the Douglas Burack Memorial Scholarship Fund, PO Box 414, East Longmeadow, MA 01028.
 
(Excerpted from The Republican newspaper, Springfield, MA).
 
 
Jean's headstone in Greenlawn Cemetery, East Longmeadow, MA. The inscription at the bottom reads, "She Was Someone Very Special.
 
 
James Branchini
(1955-1996)
 
 
James' senior portrait.
 
James W. Branchini, 40, of 19 Grenada Terrace, Springfield, died Monday, Apr. 1, 1996 at home.
 
He was a tile settler for Bachand Tile Co. in Amherst for 15 years, until 1992. He also worked at other local tile companies.
 
Born in Springfield, he lived in East Longmeadow, and was a 1973 graduate of East Longmeadow High School.
 
He moved to Springfield 12 years ago, and was a former member of the Adriatic Club.
 
He leaves two sons, James R. and Vincent A. of Springfield; his mother, Ann (Nikel) Branchini of East Longmeadow; two brothers, Bruce Graham of Springfield and Robert R. Branchini of Slingerlands, NY; and a sister, Judith Langenfield of Vienna, VA.
 
Memorial contributions may be made to any charity.
 
(Excerpted from the Springfield Union-News newspaper, Springfield, MA).
 
 
James' headstone in Gate of Heaven Cemetery, Springfield, MA. Photo by Mark Wing (www.markwing.com).
 
 
Michael Busekist
(1955-1994)
 
 
Michael's senior portrait.
 
Michael C. Busekist, 38, of 64 Rochford Circle, Springfield, a consolidator at Lechmere's Department Store in Springfield, died on Thursday, Jan. 20, 1994.
 
He worked previously at Standard Uniform Co.
 
Born in Cortland, NY, he lived in East Longmeadow, and was graduated from East Longmeadow High School in 1973. He received a degree in business management from Springfield Technical Community College in 1984 and moved here nine years ago.
 
He was a member, Sunday school teacher, usher, and lay reader at Christ Church Cathedral.
 
He leaves his wife, the former Kathleen Small; a daughter, Melissa Jean Busekist at home; his parents, Clifford and Elizabeth (Cunningham) Busekist of Palmer; three sisters, Linda Merlino of Enfield; Cheryl Harrington of Kingston, and Susan Cooley of San Diego; and several nieces and nephews.
 
Memorial contributions may be made to the Michael Busekist Trust Fund, in care of Susan Steger at Springfield Institution for Savings, PO Box 3034, Springfield, MA 01102.
 
(Excerpted from the Springfield Union-News newspaper, Springfield, MA).
 
 
Michael's marker in Hillcrest Park Cemetery, Springfield, MA.
 
 
Cynthia Wade
(1955-1975)
 
 
Cynthia's senior portrait.
 
A 20-year-old was killed Sunday, Nov. 2, 1975 in an auto accident in Chatham, Ontario, Canada.
 
Cynthia J. Wade of 98 Barrie Rd. was a passenger in a card driven by Karen Eklund, 19, of Lynn, police said. The car was heading west on the 401 Highway in Kent County about 8 p.m., police said, when it jumped the median strip and collided with an eastbound vehicle.
 
A second passenger in the car driven by Miss Eklund, Cheryl Carlson, 20, of South Easton, also died in the accident, police said.
 
Miss Eklund was charged with careless driving, police said.
 
Miss Wade was a sophomore nursing student at North Park College in Chicago. She was a graduate of East Longmeadow High School.

She attended Holyoke Community College and Springfield Technical Community College. She was a Springfield Hospital volunteer and a ward clerk at Wesson Women's Hospital.
 
She attended the Evangelical Covenant Church and was a choir member.
 
She leaves her parents, Mrs. Katherine (Wyman) Webber of East Longmeadow and Edward Wade of Springfield; her stepfather, John S. Webber of East Longmeadow; four stepbrothers, David of Baltimore, MD, Herbert of Springfield, Stephen of Newport, RI, and John Webber of San Pedro, CA; and a sister, Linda Jacque of Northampton.
 
Memorial contributions may be made to the East Longmeadow scholarship fund or the North Park College scholarship fund, Chicago, in memory of Cynthia Wade.
 
(Excerpted from the Springfield Union newspaper, Springfield, MA).
 
 
Cynthia's marker in Hillcrest Park Cemetery, Springfield, MA.