The Winchendon Courier
Serving the community since 1878 ~ A By Light Unseen Media publication
Week of September 4 to September 11, 2025

Winchendon Notice Board

Lunch is served at the Old Murdock Senior Center, 52 Murdock Ave., Winchendon, Monday through Thursday at 11:30 a.m.

On Fridays, lunch is served at The HUB, 5 Summer Drive, Winchendon, from 10:30 to 12:30 p.m. Bowling is free for seniors during this time.

Call 978-297-3155 before noon the preceding day to RSVP for lunch. Suggested donation of $3 to help cover costs.

Menu for week of September 8 - September 12, 2025:

Monday, 9/8: Turkey and gravy, whipped potatoes, carrots, low sodium whole wheat bread, chilled fruit.
Tuesday 9/9: Lasagna, vegetable blend, garlic roll, cookie or no dessert.
Wednesday 9/10: Hot dog, roll, baked beans, cole slaw, warm apples.
Thursday 9/11: Cold: roast beef & cheese, multigrain bread, chips, salad, fresh fruit.
Friday 9/12: Chicken piccata, rice pilaf, broccoli, whole wheat bread, pudding or diet pudding.

Audit Committee Member Needed

The Audit Committee needs a fifth member to join the Committee.

If you are a registered voter of Winchendon, please send your letter of interest to Debra Dennis, DDennis@winchendon-ma.gov, Executive Assistant, Town Manager's Office 109 Front Street.

Duties & Responsibilities
38.3 The Audit Committee shall solicit, interview and recommend to the Board of Selectmen the firm of independent auditors that is to audit and report on the financial statements issued by the Town. The Audit Committee shall review the audit plan with the independent auditors and upon completion of the audit, meet with the independent auditors to discuss the results of the audit and the annual financial reports.

38.4 The Audit Committee shall transmit a copy of the completed annual audited financials and management letter report to the Board of Selectmen, the Finance Committee and the School Committee, and with the assistance from the auditing firm, shall present the results of the annual audited financials and management letter report to a jointly held public meeting of the Board of Selectmen, the School Committee and the Finance Committee.

For more details, see www.townofwinchendon.com/262/Audit-Committee


Applications Open for FY26 Senior Tax Work-Off Program

Once again this year, we are pleased to announce the Senior Work-Off program was approved at our Annual Town Meeting. This Senior Work-Off Abatement Program is allowing the Town of Winchendon the opportunity to utilize the knowledge and skills of its senior residents in exchange for credit toward the resident's property tax bill. The purpose of this program is:

To employ qualified senior citizens who will apply their earnings toward payment of a portion of their property taxes;
To increase senior citizen involvement in local government; and
To enhance municipal service by using the skills of resident senior citizens.

Qualified and income-eligible residents will accrue the Commonwealth's minimum wage per hour ($15.00 hr) toward a maximum credit of $1,100.00 per household during the fiscal year.

The criteria for this program is:

You must be 60 years old or older
Homeowner in Winchendon and occupy property
Annual income below $40,150 if single; or below $45,900 if married.

Applications for the program are now available in the Town Manager's office and on the town website at https://www.townofwinchendon.com/documentcenter/view/226, and will be accepted until the ten (10) slots are filled. There are different types of positions that are available depending on preference and qualifications of the resident and the needs of each department.

Types of past and current positions have been: Custodial services, clerical help for both School & Town, Library Aides, Senior Center Aides, Cable Station Operator, Bike Path Clean up, Painting, Light Outdoor Work and Classroom Volunteers.

Please contact the Town Manager's Office at (978) 297-5431 or ddennis@winchendon-ma.gov for more information or if you need an application mailed to you.


Questions or Concerns? Email the Town Manager!

A one-click email form has been added to the town website for all residents who would like to contact the Town Manager with concerns and questions about things happening in the community. The button is at the top of the left column of buttons under "Citizen Action Center" on the left side of the website's front page. The direct link is: https://www.townofwinchendon.com/506/QUESTIONS-COMMENTS-FOR-THE-TOWN-MANAGER


Applications Open for Vendor Spaces at the 2025 Fall Festival

The 9th Annual Winchendon Fall Festival, to be held on Saturday, October 11, 2025 from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., is now accepting applications for vendor spaces on Central Street. Contact Nicole Roberts at nroberts@winchendon-ma.gov or 978-297-3537 with any questions or if you wish to volunteer on the day of the event. (We always need more help!) Again, we wish to express our gratitude to everyone for their continued support of this great event.

Access the 2025 vendor application at https://www.townofwinchendon.com/DocumentCenter/View/1411/Fall-Festival-Application-TOW-2025


Winchendon Lions Want to Welcome You!

The Winchendon Lions meet at the Winchendon American Legion Post 193, 295 School St., downstairs hall, 7:00 p.m.

Meetings are on the third Tuesday of each month, September through June. Dues are used for all Administrative cost, which is why we can say "All money received through fundraisers go back to the community, eye research, or other natural disasters around the world!"

Feel free to join us and try it out. We would love to see you!

If you have any questions feel free to call Joni 978-297-2753. Please leave a message if no answer!

"WHERE THERE'S A NEED, THERE IS A LION"


Town Committee Monthly Meetings by Week

Agendas, minutes and meeting recordings available on the Town website at Agendas & Minutes, as well as on the pages for each Board or Committee.

Boards may cancel or change times for meetings, or add extra meetings, based on specific business at hand. Check the Town Meetings Calendar tab at https://www.townofwinchendon.com/

week MON TUE WED THUR
1st Communications Committee
4:30pm
Board of Health
6:00pm
Planning Board
6:00pm
School Committee
6:00pm
2nd
Board of Selectmen
6:30pm
Finance Committee
7:00pm
Agricultural Commission
7:00pm
Conservation Commission
6:00pm
3rd Planning Board
6:00pm
Winchendon Redevelopment Authority
5:00pm
Zoning Board of Appeals
7:00pm
School Committee
6:00pm
4th Board of Selectmen
6:30pm

Recordings of town meetings may be viewed on the new "Winchendon TV" website. Most meeting videos are posted within a day or two of the meeting.
https://winchendon.cablecast.tv/CablecastPublicSite/?site=1%C2%A0%C2%A0



Fire Department Offering Free COVID-19 Test Kits to Residents

To all Winchendon residents, the Winchendon Fire Department has been able to secure multiple boxes of COVID-19 home test kits at no cost through a program with MA State DPH. Feel free to stop by the station and pick up what you need for you and your family. Here at WFD we will continue to search for ways to bring any additional care possible to our residents. The Fire Department is located at 405 Central St, Winchendon, and the business phone number is 978-297-2324.


Board of Health Members Needed

The Board of Health is seeking qualified members to fill recent vacancies.

If you are a registered voter of Winchendon, please consider sending in your letter of interest to serve on this very important Board. This term will run only until the next Town Election in May, 2026.

Please send in your letter of interest by 12:00 noon on Monday, July 21, 2025 to Debra Dennis, DDennis@winchendon-ma.gov, Executive Assistant, Town Manager's Office 109 Front Street.

Duties & Responsibilities
Winchendon has a five member Board of Health who work along with a Health Agent and Health Inspector. According to various statutes in the Massachusetts General Laws, the Board of Health is responsible for inspecting, licensing and enforcing regulations for recreational camps, food establishments, indoor ice rinks, public swimming pools, tanning facilities, body art establishments, and public lodging facilities. The Board is also responsible for enforcement of state regulations regarding housing as well as the disposal of solid waste and subsurface sanitary sewage disposal (Title V).


Conservation Commission Needs One Member

The Conservation Commission is looking for one more qualified applicant to serve on the Commission. If interested send letters of interest to nroberts@winchendon-ma.org

Description of Services
The Winchendon Conservation Commission is a five-member board responsible for the local administration and enforcement of the Massachusetts Wetland Protection Act (MGL, Chapter 131, Section 40). The Conservation Commission has also assumed the same responsibilities for the Town of Winchendon Wetlands Protection Bylaw approved by voters at the 2007 Annual town Meeting. The Town of Winchendon Wetlands Protection Bylaw includes some stronger provisions over and above those found in the Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act, primarily in the form of greater no-build and no-disturb setbacks from wetland resource areas.

Generally, the Conservation Commission's regulatory authority is triggered when alteration or construction is proposed in a wetland or floodplain, within 100 feet of a wetland, or within 200 feet of a river, stream or brook that flows year round. Under the Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act and town of Winchendon Wetlands Protection Bylaw, the Commission is required to issue decisions that provide for the following eight interests:
Protection of public and private water supply
Protection of ground water supply
Flood control
Prevention of storm damage
Prevention of pollution
Protection of land containing shellfish
Protection of fisheries
Protection of wildlife habitat


Shop Small, Shop Local in 2025!

Click to see larger image

Click here to download a printable PDF of the Small Business Saturday Winchendon shopping map!


Need a Ride?

Check out these transportation services and resources available through the Winchendon Community Connection and Access Project

  • Rides available as far as Worcester for medical appointments, shopping, recreation, employment and more!
  • All residents can get a ride. Priority is given to Senior Citizens and residents with disabilities.
  • Most rides are FREE through MART or at a low suggested donation to the Winchendon Senior Center.
  • Wheelchair accessible vehicles available.
Request a ride over the phone by calling 978-297-3155, Monday-Friday 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Saturdays 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

Request a ride online at www.winchendon-cac.org

Request a ride in person at the Winchendon Senior Center, 52 Murdock Ave, Monday to Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., or the Winchendon CAC, 5 Summer Dr, Wednesday to Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

If you have questions, reach out to winchendonccap@gmail.com or call 978-297-3155.

Let us help you get where you need to go!


Town Committee Vacancies
as of August 5, 2025


If you'd like to be an active participant in decision-making and management for your community, consider joining a town committee or board. There are a number of vacancies currently open.

Agricultural Commission - 1 vacancy, 3 alternate vacancies
Board of Health - 1 vacancy
Charter/Bylaw Review Committee - 1 vacancy
Communications Committee - 1 vacancy
Council on Aging - 3 vacancies
Cultural Council - 12 vacancies
Fence Viewer and Field Driver - 1 vacancy
Historical District Commission - 1 alternate vacancy
Parks & Recreation Commission - 2 vacancies, 1 high school rep vacancy
Winchendon Commission on Disabilities - 1 vacancy
Zoning Board of Appeals - 1 alternate vacancy

If you'd like more information about any of these positions or are interested in being considered for an appointment, contact the Town Manager's office at 978-297-0085, or send a letter of interest to ddennis@winchendon-ma.gov or Town Manager, 109 Front Street Dept. 1, Winchendon MA 01475.

For a description of each board or committee, see: https://www.townofwinchendon.com/DocumentCenter/View/440/Selectmen-Appointed-Boards-and-Committees-July-2024-PDF (PDF).


Employment

New Listings!

Lickity Splitz is hiring 18+ staff for waitstaff/scooping shifts Wednesday through Sunday. Weekends a MUST. Experience REQUIRED. Apply in person at Lickity Splitz, 231 Main St, Winchendon.

The Farm Stand is hiring 18+ staff for weekend shifts. Email Jody Mendoza at info@farmingislife.org if interested. The Farm Stand is a new retail business located at 244 School Street, Winchendon, MA, selling fresh local produce, groceries and baked goods, and select wine.

Town of Winchendon
Winchendon Parks & Recreation
109 Front Street
Winchendon, MA 01475-1758

Per Diem Marketing & Promotions Specialist

Non-Union Position

The Winchendon Parks and Recreation Department is seeking a creative and motivated individual to support the marketing and promotion of Parks and Recreation and Winchendon Community Park events. This is a per diem, grant-funded position that will help design and implement advertising campaigns to increase visibility and attendance for community programs and events across the region. Responsibilities

  • Develop and execute marketing and promotional campaigns for Parks and Recreation and Community Park events.
  • Create engaging digital and print content including social media posts, flyers, and advertisements.
  • Promote events across regional platforms, local news outlets, and community networks.
  • Collaborate with staff, performers, and partners to ensure consistent and effective messaging.
  • Track and report on outreach efforts to evaluate the effectiveness of campaigns.
Qualifications
Experience in marketing, communications, or related field preferred Strong writing and design skills with ability to create compelling promotional materials. Familiarity with social media platforms, advertising tools, and community outreach Ability to work independently, meet deadlines, and think creatively. Passion for community engagement and public events.

If interested Submit a letter of interest to scunningham@winchendon-ma.gov.


TOWN OF WINCHENDON
Winchendon Fire Department

Part-Time Administrative Assistant

The Administrative Assistant provides confidential and complex clarical and adminstrative support to the Fire Chief, officers, and staff. This role involves recordkeeping, scheduling, payroll assistance, budget tracking, and public communications. Professionalism, accuracy, and discretion are essential.

Hours & Pay

  • 19 hours per week, flexible scheduling.
  • Starting salary: $20.59-$21.63 per hour (depending on experience).
Key Duties
  • Provide administrative support to the Fire Chief and staff.
  • Maintain records, files, and databases (personnel, training, incidents).
  • Assist with payroll entry, budget tracking, and purchasing.
  • Prepare correspondence, reports, and meeting minutes.
  • Coordinate department schedules, meetings, and events.
  • Assist with public inquiries and community outreach.
  • Maintain confidentiality of sensitive information.
Qualifications
  • High school diploma or equivalent (Associate's degree preferred).
  • 3+ years administrative/clerical experience (municipal/public safety preferred).
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office and databse systems.
  • Strong organizationalm communication, and interpersonal skills.
  • Ability to handle confidential information with discretion.
How to Apply
Submit a cover letter, resume, and completed employment application (located on www.winchendonfire.org) to:
Fire Chief Thomas Smith
Winchendon Fire Department
405 Central Street, Winchendon, MA 01475
Email: TSmith@winchendon-ma.gov
Applications will be accepted until the position is filled.


TOWN OF WINCHENDON
The Community Connector
Part-Time Driver

The Community Connector is a microtransit system run by the Town of Winchendon and the Winchendon CAC. The Community Connector's mission is to provide dependable, reliable, and sustainable community-centered transportation for all persons to connect to economic opportunities, healthy food options, community resources, medical care, and essential services regardless of access to a personal vehicle.

The Community Connector is looking for a part-time driver. The driver will drive a bus owned by our partner, MART, and will be trained by MART. The driver may also be required to drive vehicles owned by the Town of Winchendon and the Winchendon CAC. No CDL required for any vehicle. Drivers complete pick-ups and drop-offs scheduled for them by dispatch. Drivers may also be required to drive the Toy Town Trolley, a fixed route between Winchendon and Rindge, NH.

Salary: $17.03/hour
Hours: Mon, Tues, Fri 9-3. Must be available at least one Saturday a month. Other shifts when available. Up to 25 hours/week.

Community Connector drivers:

  • Practice defensive driving and follow all rules of the road
  • Assist riders, especially seniors, getting in and out of vehicles
  • Must be able to lift up to 10 lbs (this includes walkers, stepstools and other items)
  • Inform dispatch and/or the transportation coordinator when any vehicle requires maintenance
  • Keep vehicles clean
  • Drive vehicles provided by the Community Connector
  • Complete driver training with MART
  • Shadow a veteran driver prior to their first shift
  • Are CORI checked by the Town of Winchendon
  • Have their driving record checked by the Winchendon CAC
  • Are drug tested and complete a physical with MART during onboarding
Requirements:
  • Must have a valid driver's license
  • Must have personal car insurance or non-owner car insurance
To apply: Please fill out an application for the Town of Winchendon and send it to Katie@communityconnector.co or drop it off at Old Murdock Senior Center, 52 Murdock Ave, Winchendon MA, during the hours of Monday-Thursday, 9am-3pm. In the section Position You Are Applying For, please put Part-Time Driver. No resume or cover letter is required. Download an application at https://www.townofwinchendon.com/home/pages/job-opportunities.


Winchendon Police Blotter

Editor's Note: The information contained in this police log was obtained through public documents kept by the police department, and is considered to be the account of the police. All subjects are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. Police agencies can no longer print the names of people who are arrested or charged with domestic assault related charges. The new law is designed to protect victims, so they are not re-victimized through indirect identification.

SUNDAY AUGUST 31
1:09-1:49 a.m.: building checks, all secure;
1:17 a.m.: extra patrols (Juniper Street), checked/secure;
5:01 a.m.: 911, ambulance needed (Mill Street), removed to hospital;
7:00 a.m.: dog bite (Main Street), removed to hospital;
8:52 a.m.: animal complaint (Academy Street), referred to other agency;
9:51 a.m.: 911, ambulance needed (West Street), no fire service necessary;
10:21 a.m.: road rage (Glenallen Street), spoken to;
10:33 a.m.: investigation (Hyde Park Drive), services rendered;
12:42 p.m.: 911, lift assist (Elmwood Road), removed to hospital;
1:42 p.m.: accident (Main Street), report taken;
3:11 p.m.: 911, ambulance needed (Belmont Avenue), removed to hospital;
3:42 p.m.: info/general (Spring Street), unable to serve;
3:50 p.m.: officer requested (Lakeshore Drive), transport;
4:22 p.m.: officer requested (Mill Glen Road), report taken;
7:29 p.m.: MV stop (Elmwood Road), verbal warning;
8:01 p.m.: suspicious vehicle (School Street), spoken to;
9:40 p.m.: warrant arrest (Spring Street), arrest;
9:40 p.m.: info/general (Spring Street), services rendered;

MONDAY SEPTEMBER 1
12:56-2:06 a.m.: building checks, all secure;
1:52 a.m.: extra patrols (GAR Park), checked/secure;
1:54 a.m.: extra patrols (Saloom Furniture Mfg, Murdock Avenue), checked/secure;
3:07 a.m.: assist other agency (other town, Highland Avenue), call cancelled;
4:48 a.m.: 911, ambulance needed (Robbins Road), removed to hospital;
7:00 a.m.: 911, dog bite (Eagle Road), referred to ACO;
9:04 a.m.: 911, 911 call non-emergency (other town, Matthew Street), info given;
11:52 a.m.: 911, unwanted party (Linden Street), spoken to;
12:39 p.m.: recovered property (Central Street), property returned to owner;
3:16 p.m.: welfare check/general (Central Street), spoken to;
3:23 p.m.: harassment (Hale Street), report taken;
4:17 p.m.: 911, fire carbon monoxide incident (Metcalf Street), services rendered;
4:18 p.m.: officer requested (Central Street), spoken to;
4:31 p.m.: 911, ambulance needed (Glenallen Street), removed to hospital;
8:03 p.m.: MV stop (Gardner Road), verbal warning;
10:10 p.m.: parking violation (Ash Street), spoken to;

TUESDAY SEPTEMBER 2
12:00 a.m.: MV stop (Gardner Road), verbal warning;
12:17 a.m.: investigation (Central Street), spoken to;
12:30- a.m.: building checks, all secure;
12:54 a.m.: extra patrols (Winchendon Community Park, Ingleside Drive), checked/secure;
1:31 a.m.: extra patrols (Winchendon Housing Authority, Pearl Drive), checked/secure;
1:43 a.m.: extra patrols (The Winchendon School, Ash Street), checked/secure;
1:47 a.m.: suspicious person (Maple Street @ Woodlawm Street), unfounded;
8:35 a.m.: officer requested (Teel Road), assisted;
10:15 a.m.: assist other police department (School Street), assisted;
10:29 a.m.: fraud (Athol, Chestnut Street), assisted;
11:13 a.m.: animal complaint (Front Street), referred to ACO;
11:23 a.m.: 911, ambulance needed (Murdock Avenue), removed to hospital;
12:49 p.m.: officer requested (Main Street), report taken;
1:23 p.m.: officer requested (Central Street), spoken to;
2:12 p.m.: investigation (Main Street), spoken to;
2:17 p.m.: transport (Memorial Drive), transport;
2:26 p.m.: investigation (Harvard Street), spoken to;
2:56 p.m.: suspicious person (Pleasant Street), spoken to;
3:37 p.m.: trespassing (Pearl Street), spoken to;
3:38 p.m.: animal rescue (Spring Street), referred to ACO;
4:30 p.m.: officer requested (Goodrich Drive), rescued;
5:10 p.m.: MV operating erratically (School Street), no cause for complaint;
5:19 p.m.: 911, ambulance needed (Island Road), removed to hospital;

6:09 p.m.: warrant arrest (Goodrich Drive), arrest;
6:56 p.m.: animal complaint (Mill Glen Road), referred to ACO;
7:28 p.m.: harassment (Ipswich Drive), report taken;
7:28 p.m.: trespassing (Cardinal Lane), report taken;
7:28 p.m.: 911, 911 call non-emergency (Pleasant Street), 911 non-emergency call;
8:15 p.m.: suspicious person (Pleasant Street), spoken to;
8:32 p.m.: noise complaint (Teel Road), unable to locate;
10:13 p.m.: ambulance needed (Grove Street @ Murdock Avenue), gone on arrival;
10:28 p.m.: suspicious person (Murdock Avenue), removed to hospital;
11:05 p.m.: suspicious person (Central Street), spoken to;
11:53 p.m.: extra patrols (Immaculate Heart of Mary Church, Spruce Street), checked/secure;
11:54 p.m.: officer requested (Central Street), spoken to;

Arrests:
Pedro L Delgado, age 33, 24 Goodrich Dr, Winchendon, MA, charged with: arrest based on a warrant.

WEDNESDAY SEPTEMBER 3
12:45-2:56 a.m.: building checks, all secure;
2:42 a.m.: extra patrols (Eagle Road @ Cardinal Lane), checked/secure;
7:30 a.m.: animal complaint (Mill Glen Road), referred to ACO;
7:50 a.m.: 911, ambulance needed (Elm Street), removed to hospital;
8:27 a.m.: property lost (School Street), info taken;
8:37 a.m.: animal complaint (Central Street), referred to ACO;
9:17 a.m.: info/general (West Shore Drive), referred to other agency;
9:44 a.m.: officer requested (Teel Road), spoken to;
9:48 a.m.: officer requested (Pleasant Street), info given;
11:11 a.m.: animal complaint (School Street), referred to ACO;
11:43 a.m.: info/general (Central Street), report taken;
11:56 a.m.: officer requested (High Street), spoken to;
12:46 p.m.: notification (Hospital Road), message delivered;
1:37 p.m.: animal complaint (Main Street), services rendered;
2:13 p.m.: officer requested (Hospital Road), report taken;
2:14 p.m.: ambulance needed (Krantz Road), call cancelled;
2:34 p.m.: 911, MV accident with injuries (Baldwinville State Road), removed to hospital;
2:47 p.m.: MV accident, no injuries (Sibley Road @ Main Street), report taken;
3:05 p.m.: MV operating erratically (Central Street), unable to locate;
3:31 p.m.: MV operating erratically (Gardner Road), unable to locate;
3:57 p.m.: 911, 911 call non-emergency (Baldwinville State Road). 911 non-emergency call;
4:24 p.m.: VIN inspection (Teel Road), assisted;
4:54 p.m.: larceny (Eli Drive), report taken;
5:11 p.m.: officer requested (Vaine Street), spoken to;
5:22 p.m.: neighbor dispute (Hyde Park Street), summons;
5:39 p.m.: animal abuse (River Street), no cause for complaint;
6:27 p.m.: assist other agency (Spring Street), assisted;
7:15 p.m.: animal complaint (Bemis Road), referred to ACO;
7:21 p.m.: suspicious vehicle (Highland Street), spoken to;
7:36 p.m.: MV stop (Central Street), written warning;
7:46 p.m.: 911, lift assist (Maple Street), removed to hospital;
7:51 p.m.: welfare check/general (Maple Street), gone on arrival;
8:09 p.m.: 911, assault (Benjamin Street), arrest;
8:43 p.m.: 911, ambulance needed (Maple Street), removed to hospital;
9:34 p.m.: harassment (Maynard Street), report taken;
9:40 p.m.: suspicious person (Central Street), spoken to;

Summons:
Miranda L Graham, age 31, 70 West St, Winchendon, MA, charged with: open and gross lewdness.

Arrests:
Christopher Ryan Zukowski, age 30, 314 Benjamin St, Winchendon, MA, charged with: assault with dangerous weapon; A & B (Domestic).

Obituaries

Clayton Campbell

CLAYTON CAMPBELL
April 12, 1933 ~ September 1, 2025 (Age 92)

With a chuckle in his voice and a twinkle in his eye, Clayton "Clay" Campbell, a spirited and loving man, embarked on his final adventure on September 1, 2025. Born to the late Vernon and Harriet Campbell on April 12, 1933, Clayton brought joy, laughter, and an unparalleled loyalty to everyone he met. He lived his life by the motto, "Life is either a daring adventure or nothing at all," and his 92 years were truly a testament to this spirited philosophy.

Our beloved Clayton spent his working years in the heart of Massachusetts, diligently serving as a machine operator for ITT Supernaut, Clinton, MA. His resilience, dedication, and cheerful spirit made him a beloved figure at his workplace until his retirement in 1977. However, Clayton's true passions lay within the comforting walls of his Winchendon home. A hands-on man, he could always be found with a new home project, a tinkering task, or a playful game with his adored dog, Pepe. His grandchildren - Amber Uguccioni, Spencer Uguccioni, and Isaac Peckham - were the apples of his eye, and his delight in their company was always evident.

Clayton is survived by his lifelong partner, Lois Furmaniuk, who shared in his love for long walks and simple pleasures. His daughters, Judy Uguccioni (son-in-law Rich Uguccioni) and Esther Peckham (son-in-law Danny Peckham), as well as his sister, Wilma Rich, will fondly remember his loving spirit. Clayton was preceded in death by his parents, Vernon and Harriet, and his siblings Eugene, Reginald, Niall, Dwayne, Thelma Corson, Maxine Scribner, and Gilbert.

As we celebrate the life of Clayton Campbell, we invite all who knew and loved him to share their memories and upload photos to his memorial page. Let us remember him, not with sorrow, but with the same joy and love that he brought into our lives. As the saying goes, "Those we love don't go away, they walk beside us every day. Unseen, unheard, but always near. Still loved, still missed, and very dear."

Stone-Ladeau Funeral Home, 343 Central St., Winchendon, MA has been entrusted with his care.

John Edward Fitzgerald

JOHN EDWARD FITZGERALD
September 9, 1951 ~ August 30, 2025 (Age 73)

John E. Fitzgerald, 73, of Winchendon Springs passed away on August 30 at Sterling Rehabilitation Center after a period of declining health. Born in Waterbury, Connecticut, John lived in Massachusetts most of his life, and lived in Northboro, Westborough, Medway, and then for the past several years full time at his former summer cottage in Winchendon Springs.

John was a graduate of Algonquin Regional High School in Northborough Class of 1969. He got his Associates degree at Worcester Junior College. His career was in first in telecom and then in retail for many years prior to retirement.

John's big loves were for his family, especially his daughter Jennifer and his son Nicholas, and for Lake Monomonac where he and friends built his waterfront home from the ground up starting in 1979.

John was a fun-loving person and had many lifelong friends. Before his illness, he was a spark of fun and enjoyed telling jokes and being with friends. He served on several committees in Winchendon, including seven years on the Retail Grocery Store task force, with which he generously shared his long experience and knowledge of the industry and local retail businesses. He was proud of his volunteer work helping out his town.

Miranda Jennings, Director of the Winchendon CAC and Winchendon Community HUB, said, "John was a beloved member of the CAC team, and will be deeply missed. He loved the bowling alley and was always lending a hand to fix things or give advice for how to get the machines running. He served as a mentor for many of the youth who worked there and always had a great sense of humor. He also served for over two years on the CAC Advisory Council, helping to guide and grow the services and impact of the CAC."

Shaina Cunningham, Winchendon Community Outreach Coordinator, said, "We had the privilege of working alongside John for many years. His dedication and pride in helping bring the bowling alley to life were truly inspiring. John had a servant's heart--always ready to lend a hand, always going the extra mile. His volunteer work at the CAC made a lasting impact, as he consistently went above and beyond to support and uplift members of our community. He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered for his passion, kindness, and unwavering commitment to making a difference."

John leaves his daughter Jennifer Waleszczak & her husband Steven, of Hamburg, NY, and his son Nicholas Fitzgerald of Winchendon MA, along with two brothers, Michael of Westborough and Edward (Gabriella) of North Andover, MA. His sister Phyllis Fitzgerald predeceased him as did his parents, Lillian & Edward Fitzgerald. He also leaves many Fitzgerald and Murphy cousins in Connecticut.

Britton Funeral Home of Shrewsbury is handing arrangements for the family. No services have been scheduled as of yet. A celebration of life service will be held at a later date.

Craig Grincewicz

CRAIG GRINCEWICZ
July 1, 1961 ~ August 27, 2025 (Age 64)

Craig Steven Grincewicz, a lifelong resident of Winchendon and beloved father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on August 27, 2025, at the age of 64.

Born in Winchendon on July 1, 1961, Craig spent his life rooted in the town he loved. For 35 years, he served as a dedicated mail carrier, known not just for his reliability, but for his gift of conversation. Whether on his route, in the store, or anywhere in between, Craig had a way of turning strangers into friends--always ready with a joke, a story, or a warm hello. His sense of humor was unforgettable, and his ability to bring laughter into everyday moments was one of his greatest gifts.

Craig cherished his cats, often speaking for them in a voice that became a signature part of his charm. He found joy in cooking--not just for others, but for the sheer fun of trying new recipes he'd seen on TV. He loved working in the yard, hunting for deals and bargains, and sharing his latest finds with pride. These small rituals were his way of celebrating life's simple pleasures.

He is survived by his children Aaron Steven Grincewicz, Elyssa Melanson (Grincewicz), her spouse Joseph Melanson, and Brittany Grincewicz, and by his beloved grandchildren Joey Melanson and Delaney Melanson, His Great Grandson Eren Melanson who were the light of his life. His siblings Ronald "Ronnie" Grincewicz, Wayne Grincewicz, Cheryl Leber, and Betsey George, His sister in-law Lee Grincewicz. He had many great friends Tracy Monette who dedicated time to help out with appointments, care and or just a visit. Steve Penney who was a life long friend and shared the love of running and marathons with Craig. Along with many more. His beloved cats Henry and Shadow. He was preceded in death by his mother Ruth Grincewicz, who passed when Craig was just ten years old; his father Frank C. Grincewicz; his stepmother Cecilia "Chickie" Grincewicz, who played a significant role in his life; his brother Frank Grincewicz; and his sister Donna Ronco--who no doubt welcomed him with open arms and eager ears.

Craig's legacy lives on in the laughter he sparked, the meals he experimented with, and the countless conversations that made people feel seen and valued. And above all, in that unforgettable laugh--distinct, joyful, and instantly recognizable to anyone who knew him.

A memorial service will be held at Stone-Ladeau on September 8th, 12:00 PM - 2:00 PM, where family and friends will gather to honor Craig's life and the joy he brought to so many. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Monadnock Kitty Rescue & Adoption, in memory of Craig's generous spirit.

There is a Heaven--Craig believed that with all his heart. And we know he's already found the best deals, sharing them with Ruth, Frank, Chickie, Frankie, and Donna.

And if you listen closely, you can still hear it--that distinct, joyful laugh that everyone remembers. The sound of Craig being exactly who he was.