The Winchendon Courier
Serving the community since 1878 ~ A By Light Unseen Media publication
Week of January 8 to January 15, 2026

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 January 12 - January 16, 2026 was not available by press time.

Monday, 1/12: BBQ pulled pork, sweet potatoes, Brussels sprouts, burger bun, applesauce.
Tuesday 1/13: Beef & vegetable stew, whipped potatoes, biscuit, cookie.
Wednesday 1/14: Turkey & gravy, whipped potatoes, butternut squash, low sodium bread, applesauce.
Thursday 1/15: Chicken Cacciatore & penne, green beans, dinner roll, pudding.
Friday 1/16: Breaded fish, risotto, vegetables, multi-grain bread, fruit.

Join the Winchendon Commission on Disability to Help Create Change!

Empowering Voices: Your role in advocacy matters
Become a part of our community and make a difference in the lives of individuals with disabilities through active participation and support.

Why Join Us?
Collaborate with like-minded advocates and share your insights to inform policies that create a more inclusive sociaty for everyone.

Meetings on the first Thursday of each month at 4:30 p.m. at The HUB/Winchendon CAC, 5 Summer Drive.

If you're interested in joining or have any questions, please email winchendoncod@gmail.com.

What Winchendon offers:

  • Clark Memorial YMCA play area is fenced in and provides a playset swing. Indoor pool has an automated swim chair.
  • Winchendon History and Cultural Center provides an alternate ramp to the entrance.
  • Beals Memorial Library has a certified Autism Friendly Initiative and provides elevator access.
  • Town Hall provides elevator access.
  • Winchendon Community Park offers wheelchair accessible tables and handicap parking.
  • Wheelchair accessibility throughout the Winchendon CAC and The HUB.
  • Winchendon Public Schools provide ADA accessibility throughout the district.
  • Parent & Professional Advocacy League family support meetings held monthly.
  • Murdock Middle High School and Heywood Healthcare offer an on-site student/staff clinic at MMHS.
  • UU Church of Winchendon offers a wheelchair lift and is ADA accessible for public events, concerts and biweekly community suppers
  • Town continues ongoing grant-funded replacement and improvement of sidewalks and crossings with curb cuts and ADA accessible design
  • Town provides live CART captioning service at Annual and Special Town Meetings.
  • ...and more!
Please complete the community survey to share your needs, and consider joining the Commission! Access the survey at: https://forms.gle/vySfVpABwXKxNPSg6

Sponsor a Brick to Support Veterans' Housing!

engraved memorial veterans' brick
An example of the engraved memorial bricks
Photo by Inanna Arthen

The Massachusetts Veterans Outreach Center (MVOC) is inviting you to sponsor a brick at the Winchendon Veterans Housing expansion project in memory of a fallen veteran or to recognize the service of a soldier or veteran in your life. You can also sponsor a brick with the name of your business or organization. If you have questions about what to engrave, contact info@veterans-outreach.org.

A 4 x 8 inch brick is $100, and a 8 x 8 inch brick is $250. To order a brick, go to https://polarengraving.com/veteransoutreach?fbclid=iwy2xjawexqw1lehrua2flbqixmqabhbqcqvnybbv1-ox_1hingn_nrqnexxzbrbdl-ddvd8n_wqzevm_bzbtbwq_aem_lppmpvyzvgabseiedcw8oq


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


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



Free Kids Sports & Arts Clinic on January 19

On Monday, January 19, The Winchendon School will present a free Sports & Arts Clinic for kids age 6 to 13. The clinic will be held at The Winchendon School, 172 Ash Street, from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Lunch will be included! Families can choose one of five options: Hockey; Baseball; Basketball; Arts & Crafts; Musical Theatre.

Registration is required. Register online at www.the-hub.org/event-details/kids-sports-arts-clinic-january-19-2026. For more information, email thehub@winchendon-cac.org or call the Winchendon CAC at 978-297-1667 (Wednesday through Saturday 10:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m.).


Toy Town Trolley Now Running Later on Saturdays!

We've expanded service hours to help more Winchendon residents--especially those in need of transportation to warming centers, shelters, and essential services.

New Saturday Hours are 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.

Book ahead! Saturday rides must be scheduled by 3:00 p.m. on Friday.

Door-to-door rides within Winchendon are available for:

  • Medical appointments
  • Grocery shopping
  • Shelter and warming center access
  • Pharmacy trips
  • And more
  • Call (978) 297-3155 or email communityconnector@winchendon-cac.org.

    Prefer to book with your phone? Download the Community Connector app at https://www.townofwinchendon.com/577/Get-the-App

    Let your neighbors know! This expanded schedule helps ensure safe, reliable transportation for those who need it most--especially during colder weather.


    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).


    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 October 27, 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
    Communication Committee - 1 vacancy
    Cultural Council - 12 vacancies
    Fence Viewer and Field Driver - 1 vacancy
    Historical District Commission - 1 alternate vacancy
    Parks & Recreation Commission - 1 vacancy
    Planning Board - 1 vacancy Winchendon Commission on Disabilities - 1 vacancy
    Zoning Board of Appeals - 1 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).


    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.

    THURSDAY JANUARY 1
    12:09-12:13 a.m.: building checks, all secure;
    6:34 a.m.: 911, ambulance needed (Morse Avenue), removed to hospital;
    1:05 p.m.: 911, ambulance needed (Oak Street), removed to hospital;
    1:44 p.m.: 911, accident (Forristall Road), removed to hospital;
    2:30 p.m.: 911, ambulance needed (Central Street), removed to hospital;
    5:39 p.m.: 911, 911 hang-up (Central Street), 911 non-emergency call;
    5:42 p.m.: MV stop (Spring Circle), verbal warning;
    6:49 p.m.: MV stop (Spring Street), arrest;

    Arrests:
    Debra J Winn, age 50, 214 Blossom St Apt #2, Fitchburg, MA, charged with: arrest based on a warrant.

    FRIDAY JANUARY 2
    12:37 a.m.: 911, ambulance needed (North Royalston Road), removed to hospital;
    1:49-2:05 a.m.: building checks, all secure;
    1:58 a.m.: suspicious vehicle (Pleasant Street), checked/secure;
    10:00 a.m.: investigation (Central Street), report taken;
    11:32 a.m.: sex offender registration (Walnut Street), assisted;
    11:38 a.m.: assist other police department (Spring Street), services rendered;
    12:54 p.m.: sex offender registration (Maple Street), assisted;
    1:09 p.m.: 911, mental health issue (address not published), removed to hospital;
    2:03 p.m.: welfare check/general (Banner Place), spoken to;
    2:28 p.m.: fire alarm (Belmont Avenue), services rendered;
    3:00 p.m.: officer requested (Maynard Street), no cause for complaint;
    4:20 p.m.: 911, 911 call non-emergency (Central Street), accidental/defective alarm;
    4:48 p.m.: alarm, type/unknown (North Royalston Road), accidental/defective alarm;
    5:24 p.m.: officer requested (Baldwinville State Road), spoken to;
    6:39 p.m.: 911, 911 hang-up (Joslin Road), accidental/defective alarm;
    6:53 p.m.: disabled vehicle (Spring Street @ Glenallen Street), MV towed/result of private tow;
    7:02 p.m.: 911, 911 call non-emergency (Elmwood Road), MV towed/result of private tow;
    7:18 p.m.: registration check (Central Street), checked/secure;
    7:56 p.m.: burglar alarm (East Monomonac Road), accidental/defective alarm;
    9:06 p.m.: MV stop (Baldwinville State Road), verbal warning;
    9:10 p.m.: 911, 911 hang-up (Pleasant Street), unfounded;
    10:06 p.m.: MV stop (Gardner Road), verbal warning;
    10:54 p.m.: 911, 911 hang-up (Poland Avenue), unfounded;
    11:29 p.m.: disabled vehicle (Spring Street @ Old Gardner Road), MV towed/result of private tow;

    SATURDAY JANUARY 3
    12:01 a.m.: 911, burglar alarm (Summer Street), false alarm;
    1:43 a.m.: assist other police department (other town, School Square), assisted;
    1:54 a.m.: suspicious vehicle (Lincoln Avenue Extension), spoken to;
    2:00-2:15 a.m.: building checks, all secure;
    2:01 a.m.: extra patrols (Winchendon Community Park, Ingleside Drive), checked/secure;
    2:09 a.m.: suspicious vehicle (Main Street), checked/secure;
    2:19 a.m.: extra patrols (Form Up Foundation, Roberts Way), no cause for complaint;
    2:30 a.m.: extra patrols (Winchendon Housing Authority, Pearl Drive), no cause for complaint;
    2:35 a.m.: suspicious vehicle (Banner Place), spoken to;
    2:39 a.m.: suspicious vehicle (Pleasant Street), checked/secure;
    10:04 a.m.: MV stop (Front Street @ Lincoln Avenue), written warning;
    10:42 a.m.: 911, ambulance needed (Pond Street), removed to hospital;
    12:14 p.m.: info/general (Walnut Street), info taken;
    12:51 p.m.: ambulance needed (Hyde Park Drive), no fire service necessary;
    1:08 p.m.: suspicious vehicle (North Ashburnham Road), info taken;
    1:22 p.m.: 911, ambulance needed (Mill Glen Road), removed to hospital;
    1:33 p.m.: animal complaint (Hyde Park Drive), referred to ACO;
    1:47 p.m.: MV stop (Spring Street @ Spring Circle), arrest;
    3:08 p.m.: Fire Department call/general (Whitney Street), assisted;
    4:28 p.m.: assist other police department (other town, Main Street), info given;
    4:41 p.m.: welfare check/general (Ready Drive), no cause for complaint;
    6:42 p.m.: 911, ambulance needed (Elm Street), removed to hospital;
    6:53 p.m.: 911, 911 hang-up (Ready Drive), accidental/defective alarm;
    7:59 p.m.: MV stop (Gardner Road), verbal warning;
    8:03 p.m.: MV stop (Forristall Road @ Elmwood Road), verbal warning;
    8:40 p.m.: MV stop (Gardner Road), written warning;
    10:25 p.m.: 911, ambulance needed (Alger Street), removed to hospital;
    10:48 p.m.: 911, ambulance needed (Brown Avenue), removed to hospital;

    Arrests:
    Bryan Matthew Arsenault, age 40, 17 Webster St, Winchendon, MA, charged with: operating MV with licensed revoked as HTO; possession of Class B drug.

    SUNDAY JANUARY 4
    12:22 a.m.: 911, 911 hang-up (Alger Street), 911 non-emergency call;
    12:38-2:15 a.m.: building checks, all secure;
    12:45 a.m.: extra patrols (Winchendon Community Park, Ingleside Drive), checked/secure;
    12:57 a.m.: MV stop (Spring Street @ Lake Street), verbal warning;
    1:09 a.m.: suspicious vehicle (Central Street), transport;
    1:35 a.m.: 911, ambulance needed (Ash Street), removed to hospital;
    2:06 a.m.: suspicious vehicle (Central Street), checked/secure;
    2:21 a.m.: extra patrols (Winchendon Housing Authority, Pearl Drive),checked/secure;

    5:59 a.m.: 911, accident (School Street), removed to hospital;
    7:15 a.m.: 911, ambulance needed (Central Street), removed to hospital;
    11:28 a.m.: MV stop (Spring Street @ Lake Street), verbal warning;
    12:48 p.m.: MV stop (Front Street), summons;
    1:15 p.m.: 911, assault (Spring Street), summons;
    1:36 p.m.: 911, larceny (Mechanic Street), report taken;
    3:19 p.m.: fire alarm (Railroad Street), services rendered;
    4:32 p.m.: fire alarm (Railroad Street), services rendered;
    6:07 p.m.: MV stop (Spring Street @ Pine Street), verbal warning;
    6:13 p.m.: suspicious vehicle (Central Street), verbal warning;
    7:32 p.m.: animal complaint (homeless), info taken;
    8:59 p.m.: MV stop (Central Street @ Maple Street), written warning;
    9:45 p.m.: MV stop (Gardner Road), written warning;

    Summons:
    Noah Clifford Beauvais, age 18, 277 Front St, Winchendon, MA, charged with: operating MV with suspended license.
    Craig Anthony Ashmore, age 68, 202 Spring St Apt #2, Winchendon, MA, charged with: A & B.

    MONDAY JANUARY 5
    2:23-2:55 a.m.: building checks, all secure;
    2:30 a.m.: extra patrols (Winchendon Community Park, Ingleside Drive), checked/secure;
    2:45 a.m.: extra patrols (Winchendon Housing Authority, Pearl Drive), no cause for complaint;
    3:32 a.m.: 911, burglar alarm (Spring Street), checked/secure;extra patrols (Winchendon Housing Authority, Pearl Drive), no cause for complaint;
    7:00 a.m.: Department of Public Works call/general (Railroad Street @ Central Street), referred to DPW;
    7:38 a.m.: animal complaint (East Street), services rendered;
    10:05 a.m.: officer requested (Grove Street), spoken to;
    10:06 a.m.: fraud (Second Street), report taken;
    10:55 a.m.: 911, ambulance needed (Sibley Road), removed to hospital;
    11:39 a.m.: harassment (Hyde Park), report taken;
    11:42 a.m.: officer requested (other town, Blossom Street), spoken to;
    12:37 p.m.: sex offender registration (Walnut Street), spoken to;
    2:23 p.m.: sex offender registration (Walnut Street), spoken to;
    2:55 p.m.: burglar alarm (Glenallen Street), accidental/defective alarm;
    4:16 p.m.: 911, ambulance needed (Central Street), removed to hospital;
    4:21 p.m.: animal complaint (Ash Street), referred to ACO;
    7:07 p.m.: Department of Public Works call/general (townwide), referred to DPW;
    8:16 p.m.: noise complaint (Ipswich Drive), spoken to;
    9:08 p.m.: warrant arrest (Spring Street), arrest;
    9:56 p.m.: 911, ambulance needed (Phyllis Road), removed to hospital;
    10:06 p.m.: MV stop (Front Street), verbal warning;
    10:11 p.m.: 911, officer requested (Hospital Road), call cancelled;
    10:31 p.m.: MV stop (Spring Street), verbal warning;
    11:25 p.m.: 911, ambulance needed (Highland Street), removed to hospital;

    Arrests:
    Anna B Stowell, age 38, 36 Spring St Apt #4, Winchendon, MA, charged with: arrest based on a warrant (4).

    TUESDAY JANUARY 6
    12:36-2:58 a.m.: building checks, all secure;
    12:38 a.m.: MV stop (River Street), verbal warning;
    12:50 a.m.: extra patrols (Winchendon Community Park, Ingleside Drive), checked/secure;
    3:02 a.m.: extra patrols (Winchendon Housing Authority, Pearl Drive), no cause for complaint;
    3:49 a.m.: 911, ambulance needed (Mill Street), removed to hospital;
    8:41 a.m.: smoke (Mason Street), services rendered;
    11:28 a.m.: smoke (East Street), services rendered;
    2:55 p.m.: 911, civil complaint (Doyle Avenue), advised civil action;
    4:33 p.m.: fraud (Poland Avenue), report taken;
    5:17 p.m.: officer requested (Alger Street), report taken;
    6:06 p.m.: 911, ambulance needed (Spring Street), removed to hospital;
    7:20 p.m.: 911, MV operating erratically (River Street), advised officer;

    WEDNESDAY JANUARY 7
    12:17-2:00 a.m.: building checks, all secure;
    1:06 a.m.: officer requested (Benjamin Street), investigated/report taken;
    3:35 a.m.: ambulance needed (Central Street), removed to hospital;
    4:05 a.m.: animal complaint (Maple Street @ Glenallen Street), brought to station;
    7:00 a.m.: dog bite (Alger Street), referred to ACO;
    9:02 a.m.: investigation (Central Street), transport;
    10:29 a.m.: 911, lift assist (Hyde Park Drive), services rendered;
    12:00 p.m.: ambulance needed (Ipswich Drive), false alarm;
    12:47 p.m.: welfare check/general (Walnut Street), report taken;
    1:38 p.m.: officer requested (Walnut Street), report taken;
    3:21 p.m.: lock-out vehicle (Crescent Road), assisted;
    4:54 p.m.: 911, ambulance needed (Maple Street), removed to hospital;
    5:16 p.m.: larceny (Walnut Street), spoken to;
    6:28 p.m.: MV stop (Gardner Road), verbal warning;
    6:29 p.m.: 911, 911 hang-up (Spring Street), child playing with phone;
    6:54 p.m.: MV stop (Spring Street), summons;
    7:53 p.m.: fire alarm (North Royalston Road), accidental/defective alarm;

    Summons:
    Alex Roberto Lopez, age 28, 96 Crisci St, Leominster, MA, charged with: uninsured motor vehicle; operating MV with suspended registration.

    Obituaries

    Michael A Publicover Jr

    MICHAEL A PUBLICOVER JR
    September 18, 2006 ~ December 26, 2025 (Age 19)

    It is with a heavy heart that we announce the untimely passing of the adventurous and compassionate Michael "MJ" Publicover Jr. on December 26, 2025. Born on September 18, 2006, in Worcester, MA, MJ was a vibrant and energetic spirit who brought joy and laughter to everyone around him. He was a beacon of positivity, always ready with a funny anecdote or a helping hand. His compassionate nature and infectious humor were as much a part of him as his love for family and friends.

    MJ attended the Orange School District, he attended Mahar Regional Middle/High School and later transferred to the Quabbin Regional School District where he attended Quabbin Regional High School.

    He was an avid athlete, playing Baseball, Basketball, Soccer and his true passion, Football. He got his start with football at an early age of 5 and played 9 years of youth football and played until Highschool. MJ was a natural born Quarter Back, he could read the field at a level far beyond his age, often making him a lead scorer on his team, where he perfected his bootleg play.

    Between school and sports, MJ made so many friends that he grew with, many of which he was still very close with. He made friends everywhere he went, he was a very extroverted person, who always talked, laughed, you name it, with everyone he met.

    MJ worked with his father as a Carpenter and had recently started working at Trellis Structures in Templeton, MA.

    MJ was a cherished son to his parents, Michael and Cheri Publicover, and a beloved brother to Jordan Publicover, and his beloved cat Pennywise. His absence will leave an unfillable void in the hearts of his family, friends, and everyone who had the privilege of knowing him. Michael "MJ" lived a life full of love, laughter, and memories that will forever be etched in our hearts.

    Calling hours will be held on Sunday, January 11, 2026, from 2:00-5:00 PM at the Mack Family Funeral Homes, Athol-Orange Chapel, located at 110 New Athol Rd., Orange, Massachusetts, 01364, followed immediately with a celebration of life held at the Ellinwood Country Club at 1928 Pleasant St., Athol, MA from 5:00-8:00PM.

    This is an opportunity to pay our respects, share stories, and remember the wonderful life of Michael "MJ" Publicover Jr.

    We invite those who knew MJ to leave memories and upload photos to the memorial page below. It serves as a testament to his life and the indelible mark he left on all our hearts. Through this, we keep his legacy alive and cherish the moments we had with him.

    Mack Family Funeral Homes, Athol-Orange Chapel, 110 New Athol Road, Orange, MA.

    Douglas M Dintinosanto

    DOUGLAS M DINTINOSANTO
    September 12, 1958 ~ January 1, 2026 (Age 67)

    Douglas Myles "Doug" Dintinosanto, age 67, passed away on January 1, 2026, at Leominster Hospital surrounded by family. Born on September 12, 1958, in Watertown, Massachusetts, Doug lived a life rooted in love, laughter, and generosity.

    Doug grew up in Watertown, and later lived in Taunton before settling in Winchendon, MA, where he spent the last few decades and truly made his home. He was known for his strong work ethic and willingness to do whatever was needed. Over the years, Doug held many roles, but his favorite by far was riding the Zamboni at the Winchendon ice rink--a job that perfectly suited his playful spirit and love for bringing joy to others. He ended his career at NHBB.

    Above all else, Doug was most proud of his daughters. His love for them was unwavering, and everything he did was guided by his devotion to family.

    Doug will be remembered as caring, helpful, passionate, playful, reliable, charitable, and endlessly friendly. He was the family comedian and an encourager by nature, always ready with a joke, a smile, or the right words at the right time. He showed love through encouraging conversations, random gifts, and thoughtful gestures--often going the extra mile, especially when it mattered most.

    He had a deep love for life's simple pleasures: deep-sea fishing, football, trips to the casino, cooking, disco music, dancing, and a good prank. He rarely missed a chance to laugh, whether watching Steve Harvey, Impractical Jokers, or America's Funniest Home Videos. His familiar phrases--"Hot ticket," "That's a good suppah," and "I need a snack"--will forever echo in the hearts of those who loved him.

    Doug is survived by his wife, Kelly A. Gauthier; his daughters Danielle Merrill and her husband Shawn Merrill, Tammy and her fiancé Orlando Ocasio, and Nicole; his brother Mike Dintinosanto and wife Tina; his brother Tommy Dintinosanto; his 7 grandchildren; and his 3 great-grandchildren. He also leaves behind many extended family members and friends who were touched by his kindness and humor.

    What people will miss most is Doug's heart--his willingness to help in any way possible, his ability to make things right, and his genuine desire to bring light into the lives of others. Even on imperfect days, his love and effort were always unmistakable.

    Doug will be remembered for his laughter, his generosity, his devotion to family, and the joy he brought into everyday moments.

    At this time, private services will be held by family. It was Doug's wish that all who loved him honors him in whatever way feels right. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to support a local animal shelter as he adored his own rescue pets--dog Lilly and 2 cats, Sanibel and Marco.