The Winchendon Courier
Serving the community since 1878 ~ A By Light Unseen Media publication
Week of April 18 to April 25, 2024

Obituaries

Donald A. Bezio and Jacquelyn A. Bezio Donald A. Bezio and Jacquelyn A. Bezio

DONALD A. BEZIO
September 22, 1930 ~ April 4, 2007 (Age 76)

JACQUELINE A. (ALLARD) BEZIO
January 20, 1932 ~ September 24, 2009 (Age 76)

Donald A. Bezio, was born on September 22, 1930 to Jesse J. & Helena F. (Gillis) Bezio in Winchendon, MA where he grew up as an only child. He graduated from Murdock High School in 1948. After a summer working, Don with his friend Henry Doody and several other local young men enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps. After training, they were deployed to a Marine Gun Boat in China during the Civil War, then to Korea at the start of the "Korean Conflict." Their First Marines unit, part of a 15,000 strong U.N. force, moved into North Korea in Oct.1950 during a Siberian Front that dropped temperatures into negative numbers. Facing the onslaught of 120,000+ North Korean and Chinese forces when they reached the Chosin Reservoir they fought their way to the ocean. Don & Henry were two of the less than 2,000 survivors known as the "Chosin Few." With frostbite and wounds they went to Guam, then back to the States and, finally, home to Winchendon.

Jacquelyn A. Allard was born on January 20, 1932 to Ernest & Ruth (Foster) Allard in Boston, MA. She grew upon a farm in Southbridge, MA with her three brothers and graduated from Wells High School in 1950. She had strong ties to Winchendon, her mother Ruth's childhood home, the home of her grandparents, Harold & Ella (Piper) Foster, and a large extended family. After graduating, she joined her cousin, Phyllis Priest, in Washington, D.C. to work at the Department of the Navy. Shortly after, Phyllis introduced her Murdock High classmate, Don Bezio, a young Marine just back from the Korean War, to her cousin Jacquie. They were married on July 5, 1952.

Don reenlisted in the USMC Reserves and joined the Central Intelligence Agency where he worked for 13 years as a Communications Specialist on the Night Desk. They had three children while living in Arlington and Vienna, VA. They enjoyed summer trips to Winchendon until, in 1965, Don was stationed in Taipei, Taiwan and Jacquie became a Vietnam War "widow" raising her family, with an Amah's help, on a mountain outside Taipei for the next seven years. The family was then stationed in Seoul, South Korea for five years, then to Udorn, Thailand for five more, where Jacquie took a job as CIA station secretary. While overseas, Jacquie studied Oriental Brush painting, taught English, was active in several clubs and at her children's schools until they were off to universities in the U.S.

In 1983, they returned to the States, living first back in Virginia and in 1987, Don now retired from the USMC Reserves and the CIA, they settled in Punta Gorda, FL where they had several old friends and made many new ones. Don worked on his golf game, Jacquie was active in the arts community and they traveled.

Donald Albert Bezio, 76, passed suddenly on April 4, 2007 after a long illness in Punta Gorda, FL. Jacquie moved with her daughter & son's families to Colorado for 2-1/2 years while battling Alzheimers. She volunteered when able, spent time with her family and garnered many friends. Jacquelyn Ann Bezio, 76, passed peacefully in her Denver home on September 24, 2009. They were survived by their three children and their spouses, Cheryl Bezio-Gorham (Michael) of Denver, CO, James R. (Marian) of Aurora, CO and Joseph H. (Geri) of Livermore, CA. Brother F. Lee (Linda) Allard of St. Augustine, FL; cousin Phyllis Priest Ward (Grady); five grandchildren in Colorado - Courtney & Bradley Gorham, and Shawna, Taylor (who helped with Jacquie's care) and Lawson Bezio; many family members in the U.S. and friends around the world. We miss them dearly!

Over 15 years since they passed, we are honored to be able to return to Winchendon to inurn their ashes at the Massachusetts Veteran's Memorial Cemetery at 2pm, Tuesday, May 14, 2024. Do come early to view a Chosin Few memorial to Master Gunnery Sergeant Donald Bezio in the Cemetery's museum and meet the family.

If you knew Don Bezio, "Buzzie" to his Murdock and Winchendon friends; were in the Marines with him or perhaps your father was, or if you knew Jacquie or her Allard family of Southbridge, MA or Foster/Priest/Piper families of Winchendon, please join us to honor a son and granddaughter of Winchendon, their lives of military service and international work and, especially, to honor one of the Chosin Few - now, fewer and fewer of them as the days go by.

Carol A, Donnelly

CAROL A. DONNELLY
August 16, 1934 ~ April 16, 2024 (Age 89)

Carol Ann (Parks) Donnelly of Manchester Maine, 89, died April 4, 2024 at Glenridge Long Term Care, Augusta ME. Carol was born August 16, 1934 in Winchendon MA the daughter of Karl M. & Florence E. (Foster) Parks.

She attended Cushing Academy, Boston University School of Nursing and received her Master's degree as an Occupational Therapist. She worked at Augusta Mental Health Institute. Carol enjoyed traveling with friends and family, spending time with her grandchildren and great grandchildren.

She is predeceased by her parents, brother Martin A. (Skip) Parks and former husband Harvey Donnelly. Carol is survived by her sister Elaine E. Parks of Winchendon, MA, her children Robin D. Robinson of Manchester, ME, Craig M. Donnelly and Marie Lamb of Madison, AL and Susan C. Donnelly and husband Thomas Grinley of Pembroke, NH, Grandchildren Randi Robinson of Benton ME, Hazen Clark and wife Alicia of Manchester ME, Travor Robinson and wife Shelea of Readfield, ME and Nyssa Halford and husband Chris of North Kingston, RI, Michael Grinley of Newport NH, Sarah Donnelly of Pembroke, NH, Great Grandchildren Dora & Albin Clark of Manchester, ME, Sadie & Wyatt Robinson of Readfield, ME, Sloane Halford of North Kingston, RI, Sister-in-law Shirley Parks, and nieces and nephews.

A private gravesite ceremony will be held at the family plot at Riverside Cemetery, Winchendon, MA.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made to the Shriner's Children Hospital. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family on her tribute wall.

Clement J. Young

CLEMENT J. YOUNG
January 13, 1942 ~ April 6, 2024 (Age 82)

Clement Joseph Young, 82, of Winchendon, formerly of Templeton, died peacefully Saturday, April 6, 2024, in his son's home, after a period of declining health.

Born in Winchendon on January 13, 1942, he was the son of the late John Edward Young and Mary Jane (Fisher) Young-Roberts. He attended Murdock High School in Winchendon. Clem owned and operated his own folding and packaging as well as canvas work company for many years prior to his retirement in 2006. He was previously employed by H&R 1871 of Gardner for many years working in production control.

Clem was an active member of the Templeton community where he helped in various aspects. He was proud of his part in coordinating the construction of the Templeton Animal Control Facility and being a community volunteer in helping to install fencing around the First Church on Templeton Common Cemetery. Clem also loved to volunteer during its annual Arts and Crafts Festival to help benefit the scholarship fund. When he was not volunteering, he loved to go salt-water fishing, and building play houses. Clem's greatest joy was his family, treasuring all the time they spent together.

Clem is survived by his son, David C. Young and his wife Lynn of Winchendon; a daughter, Robin M. Keith and her husband Tommy of Virginia Beach, VA; two grandchildren, Matthew Keith and Brooke Young; three great-grandchildren; a brother, Clifford Young of Webster; four sisters, Justine Gauthier of Connecticut, Therese Bennett of New Hampshire, Sandra Dellasanta of Winchendon, and Evelyn Rudy of Worcester; several nieces, nephews and cousins.

He was predeceased by his love and wife of 60 years, Irene A. (Czajkowski) Young, who died in 2021; three brothers, Henry, John and Joseph Young; and two sisters, Lorretta LeBlanc and Thelma Young.

Funeral Services will be private and held at the convenience of the family.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society, New England Division, PO Box 1120, Framingham, MA 01701, or on their website at (www.donate3.cancer.org). Please reference in memory of Clement J. Young.

Boucher Funeral Home, Inc., 110 Nichols Street, PO Box 455, Gardner, MA 01440, has been entrusted with the arrangements.

Kevvin W. Sawtelle

KEVVIN W. SAWTELLE
August 14, 1992 ~ April 5, 2024 (Age 31)

Kevvin W. Sawtelle, 31, of Rindge, died peacefully on April 5, 2024, in the arms of his family at the Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center in Lebanon, NH after a long battle with brain cancer.

Kevvin was born on August 14, 1992, in Peterborough, NH, the son of Gary L. Sawtelle, Jr. and Rebecca J. (Desmarais) St. Aubin. Kevvin was a 2011 graduate of Conant High School in Jaffrey and had been a lifelong resident of Rindge.

Though his life wasn't as long as anyone had hoped for, Kevvin enjoyed experiences beyond his years. Active in scouting from a young age, Kevvin had achieved the rank of Life Scout with Troop 308 in Rindge and was very proud of having successfully completed the Philmont 110-mile challenge that few scouters achieve. He also enjoyed the challenges presented in martial arts and was a Black Belt in Karate, studying with Kenny's Taekwondo.

Kevvin was always enthusiastic about working, and never wanted to give in to his illness. Even nearing his death, he continued to reassure everyone that he was going back to work at Millipore where he was an Automation and Robotics Technician. When he was younger, like most high school students, Kevvin started at Market Basket in Rindge, and later worked with his family in Masonry with Deb and Kris Shelley. His work ethic continued to solidify his character, and Kevvin began attending Mount Wachusett Community College, as well as Nashua Community College. While furthering his efforts in his education, he continued working at Cues in Amherst as a Boom-Truck mechanic, before joining Jim Weidner and Weidner Services.

Kevvin has always enjoyed the outdoors and sharing adventures with family and friends. Most recently, he had been bitten by the drone photography bug, and was happily expanding on his artistic talents in that realm. He loved the Midwest, especially Utah and the trips made with his dad 'booning' and touring around. He hiked and mountain biked wherever he could, and his attention to precision was shown through his interests in target shooting and throwing of pretty much anything that could be thrown. Kevvin was well-practiced with axes, knives, stars, and yes, even playing cards. He also loved the excitement his cars brought him. He had built 2 custom BMW's through the years and was just completing his special drift car. He had also been able to purchase his dream car, a beautiful, deep-green BMW M4.

Kevvin will always be loved and remembered by his family and friends. He is survived by his dad, Gary Sawtelle, and his partner, Dianna Whitney of Rindge, NH; his mom, Becky, and her husband, Albert St. Aubin of Rindge, NH; his sister, brother in law and their children, Samantha and Jacob Gage, Jacob Jr., Charlotte and their miracle coming in May, of Winchendon, MA; his grandmother, Ann M. Sawtelle, of Winchendon, MA, his aunts and uncles: Brenda & Brian Belliveau of Sandown NH; Deb & Scott Shelly of Jaffrey, NH; Pamela Desmarais of Locust Grove, VA; Justine Desmarais & Paul Dynan of Greenbelt, MD; Patrick & Melanie Desmarais of Leominster MA; James Desmarais of Willimantic, CT; Mike and Cheryl Fletcher of Winchendon; Wendy Bailey of Jaffrey; Robert Sawtelle of Rindge; his close clan of cousins of all different ages; and by his close knit group of friends and their children, who were truly Kevvin's extended family through all seasons of his life.

Kevvin was preceded in death by his maternal grandparents Betty Chouinard, Lester Parker, Edward, and Maureen Desmarais, and by his paternal grandfather, Gary Sawtelle, Sr. and by his great-grandmother, Adeline Hollister, all who were enormous influences on his life.

This, of course, is just a brief overview of Kevvin's life. Please see his Facebook page for countless photographs and many more details of his amazing life.

A Memorial Celebration will be announced here when plans are finalized.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a memorial contribution in Kevvin's name to; "The Good Neighbor Fund" PO Box 486, Jaffrey, NH, 03452. Contributions to this fund will be distributed to the various Boy Scout Groups that had a special place in Kevvin's heart.

Clement J. Young

JAMES FRANCIS AUGER
March 30, 2024 (Age 76)

On Saturday evening, March 30, James Francis Auger of Zion Crossroads, passed away after complications from, and a long struggle with, Parkinson's Disease.

Preceding him in death are his parents, Francis and Martha (Doucette) Auger, of Atlanta, GA. Surviving are his beloved wife of nearly 30 years, Diana, and his stepdaughter KC Scott; sisters Janice M. Carroll (Michael) of Dublin, OH; Caroline M. Akers of Hiawassee, GA; Martha A. Brideau (Lawrence) of Hayesville, NC; much loved nieces and nephews, and many cousins and extended family.

Born on Halloween 1947 in Gardner, MA, James graduated from Gardner High School, attended Mount Wachusett Community College, and served in the U.S. Air Force, stationed in San Angelo, TX. Fulfilling a desire to complete his education, he then attended University of Massachusetts at Amherst and received his bachelor's degree in chemistry from University of Findlay in Ohio. James worked at RCA in Phoenix before becoming a longtime employee of Sprague, which later became Allegro MicroSystems, in Worcester, MA, where he was an engineering manager before taking an early retirement.

In 1994, when James and Diana Scott wed, he was gifted with a stepdaughter, KC, whom he loved as his own. After living for a decade in the hillside home the couple built in Sterling, MA, with long views nearly reaching Boston, they moved to Tennessee. In rural Greenback for nearly eight years, James especially savored a glass of wine while enjoying their Great Smoky Mountains vista and Angus cattle in adjoining meadows. A final happy move in 2016 took them to Virginia and the Spring Creek community.

During his military service, James honed his use of the cue stick and was somewhat of a pool shark. Through the years, James had been on various pool teams, often as the house's highest ranking player. He discovered an affinity for teaching the game and did so privately using his 9-foot-professional table, having trained and earned status as Billiard Congress of America Advanced Instructor for pocket billiards, as well as certification as an American CueSports Alliance Instructor/Coach. He achieved all this despite having Dupuytren's Contracture in both hands.

When he wasn't voraciously reading novels, biographies and books about history, or playing a round of golf, James loved the challenges of contract bridge. He belonged to the Jefferson Bridge Association in Charlottesville, where he attained his goal of becoming a Life Master and achieved Bronze status in 2018. He would have been able to continue to the next step, had Parkinson's not made inroads on his health.

Friends are invited to visit with the family from 4 to 6 p.m. Friday, April 5, at Teague Funeral Home, 2260 Ivy Road, Charlottesville. An Interment ceremony in the Massachusetts Veterans' Memorial Cemetery, Winchendon, MA, will be held later this month.

Gratitude is extended to FirstLight Home Care and to Hospice of the Piedmont for its support, particularly to Tammy Amirez, Tova Cohen and Valerie Londree. Please consider donating to Hospice of the Piedmont or The P.A.R.C. (Parkinson's Activity and Resource Center), both nonprofits, in lieu of flowers.

Michael Davini

MICHAEL DAVINI
May 2, 1960 ~ April 9, 2024 (Age 63)

Rindge, NH - Michael James Davini, born May 2, 1960, in Pittsfield, MA, was a man who lived his life with humor, kindness, deep affection, and unwavering reliability. He was a treasure to those who knew him, and his spirit will forever be engraved in our hearts. Michael was a man who had an uncanny ability to find joy in the simplest things and had an infectious laugh that could fill a room. His generosity knew no bounds, and he was always willing to lend a helping hand, expecting nothing in return.

From his birthplace in Pittsfield, MA, to Winchendon, MA, and finally settling in Rindge, New Hampshire, Michael's life was a testament to his love for adventure. His hobbies of boating and modified racing were a reflection of his vibrant personality. Yet, what mattered most to Michael was his family. He found solace and joy in spending time at Davini Island with his loved ones. He was a loving husband to, Michele, his soulmate since 1998 then later were united in holy matrimony on August 31, 2013. He showered his affection not only on us but also on his children Joseph, Courtney and her husband John Kadlik, and Danielle and her fiancé Keith Johnson as well as his grand children Elizabeth Davini, Piper Johnson Davini, Talon Kadlik and Killian Kadlik. Michael was held dear by his mother, Elizabeth Antonellis, his step-father, Paul Antonellis Sr., his sister, Katherine Lassen, and half-brother, Paul Antonellis Jr.

Michael was preceded in death by his father, Kent Davini, and his brother, Joseph Davini. In the wisdom of the Catholic faith, we are reminded of the words from the book of Matthew 5:4, "Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted." We find solace in knowing that Michael is now reunited with them in the heavenly abode, free from pain and suffering.

We invite you to celebrate Michael's life by sharing your fondest memories and photos on his memorial page. This will serve as a place where we can remember and honor his funny, generous, loving, and reliable spirit. Let us remember Michael not with sadness but with the joy of having known such a beautiful soul. His life was a blessing, his memory a treasure, he is loved beyond words, and missed beyond measure.

To leave an online condolence please visit, www.stone-ladeau.com

Kevin J. Mack, Walter C. Taylor, and Melissa A. McQuaid, funeral directors.

Edward L. Dupuis

EDWARD L. DUPUIS
November 29, 1941 ~ April 12, 2024 (Age 82)

Winchendon - Edward L. Dupuis, 82 of Winchendon, MA passed away on Friday April 12, 2024 in Gardner Rehab & Nursing Center, Gardner, MA.

Ed attended St Joesph's school and Fitchburg High. He was asked to leave before he could graduate and many years later earned his GED from Mount Wachusett Community College.

In his younger days Ed loved to play Santa Claus. He was Santa at local private clubs and at the mall in Leominster for many years.

Ed leaves his wife of nearly 45 years, Linda (Soubie), His daughter Wendy Koskinen (Brian), son Scott (Kathleen), son Todd (Mary), son Cory (Linda) and son Jason (Sarah). Grandchildren Katelyn, Kyle, Kelly, Daniel, Tarah, Haley, Andrew, Trevor, Dominique and Tyler and several great grandchildren.

Ed was a communicant of Good Shepard Episcopal Church in Fitchburg for many years, St Mark's Episcopal Church in Leominster ,where he was a Lay Eucharistic Minister and a member of the healing team, and most recently St Luke's Anglican Church in Amherst, NH.

It was at St Mark's that Ed and Linda met their "adopted" son and daughter, Canon Rev. Ron and Shirley Hanson. Their children Nii Nortey, Nii Noi, Naa Shormey and Norti were like grandchildren to Ed.

After attending Cursillo as an attendee Ed served as team on many weekends.

Ed enjoyed watching the Patriots on Sundays after church. He was a fan before the Super Bowl years and remained one after. He enjoyed playing cards on his laptop, watching the same movies over and over again, watching black and white cowboy movies and playing Pinochle at the former St Joe's club in Cleghorn.

Ed was predeceased by his parents Henry and Laura, his brother Jerry, his sister, Doris "Toots" and brothers Henry, Donald and Raymond.

In lieu of flowers please consider donating to Wreaths Across America.

Services for Ed are on Saturday, April 20, 2024 with a calling hour at the funeral home from 10 until 11a.m. followed by Mass beginning at 11 a.m. in the funeral home. Inurnment will follow in Forest Hill Cemetery.

All relatives and friends are welcome to attend.