Feels Like Coming Home

I hope death feels like coming home after a long day, where the weight of the world melts away as you step through the door. I hope it feels like the soft embrace of twilight, the quiet rustle of leaves outside your window, and the gentle hum of familiarity that tells you everything is finally at peace. I hope it feels like lying in your favorite spot, wrapped in a blanket that carries the scent of love and safety. Like a hand brushing your hair away from your face, a voice whispering, “Rest now, you’ve done enough.” I hope it’s the quiet joy of knowing you’re surrounded by love, the soft glow of memories lighting your way, and the deep serenity of being exactly where you belong. I hope it feels like a warm hug that lingers, the kind that makes you feel held, not just physically, but in the depths of your soul. I hope it’s like the rhythm of your favorite song, the one that plays in the background of the moments that matter most. I hope it feels like whispers of love from every corner of the universe, guiding you gently to a place where pain no longer exists and where every piece of you is finally whole. I hope it’s the sweetest exhale, a release into something vast and endless, where you are no longer bound but beautifully free. I hope it feels like going home—not just to a place, but to yourself.

Expected Death Take a Deep Breath

 Expected Death 

Take a Deep Breath

September 6, 2021

 

✨

Expected Death ~ When someone dies, the first thing to do is nothing. Don’t run out and call the nurse. Don’t pick up the phone. Take a deep breath and be present to the magnitude of the moment.

There’s a grace to being at the bedside of someone you love as they make their transition out of this world. At the moment they take their last breath, there’s an incredible sacredness in the space. The veil between the worlds opens.

We’re so unprepared and untrained in how to deal with death that sometimes a kind of panic response kicks in. “They’re dead!”

We knew they were going to die, so their being dead is not a surprise. It’s not a problem to be solved. It’s very sad, but it’s not cause to panic.

If anything, their death is cause to take a deep breath, to stop, and be really present to what’s happening. If you’re at home, maybe put on the kettle and make a cup of tea.

Sit at the bedside and just be present to the experience in the room. What’s happening for you? What might be happening for them? What other presences are here that might be supporting them on their way? Tune into all the beauty and magic.

Pausing gives your soul a chance to adjust, because no matter how prepared we are, a death is still a shock. If we kick right into “do” mode, and call 911, or call the hospice, we never get a chance to absorb the enormity of the event.

Give yourself five minutes or 10 minutes, or 15 minutes just to be. You’ll never get that time back again if you don’t take it now.

After that, do the smallest thing you can. Call the one person who needs to be called. Engage whatever systems need to be engaged, but engage them at the very most minimal level. Move really, really, really, slowly, because this is a period where it’s easy for body and soul to get separated.

Our bodies can gallop forwards, but sometimes our souls haven’t caught up. If you have an opportunity to be quiet and be present, take it. Accept and acclimatize and adjust to what’s happening. Then, as the train starts rolling, and all the things that happen after a death kick in, you’ll be better prepared.

You won’t get a chance to catch your breath later on. You need to do it now.

Being present in the moments after death is an incredible gift to yourself, it’s a gift to the people you’re with, and it’s a gift to the person who’s just died. They’re just a hair’s breath away. They’re just starting their new journey in the world without a body. If you keep a calm space around their body, and in the room, they’re launched in a more beautiful way. It’s a service to both sides of the veil.

Credit for the beautiful words ~ Sarah Kerr, Ritual Healing Practitioner and Death Doula , Death doula

Beautiful art by Columbus Community Deathcare

A love letter from those who have passed on…

 A love letter from those who have passed on… 

Take the love you have for me 

And radiate it outwards 

Allowing it to touch and impact others

Take the memory you have of me 

And use it as a source of inspiration

To live fully, meaningfully and intentionally  

Take the image you have of me in your mind 

And allow it to fuel you 

To take action 

Seize the day

And be reminded of what is most important in life 

Take the care you have for me 

And let it remind you 

To care for yourself fully 

And shower yourself with your own love 

And take the pain and grief you feel

Following my loss 

And alchemize it into 

Love, compassion and beauty 

Build a castle

From the wreckage of my passing 

And allow it to unlock your greatness and potential

And empower you to become more than you ever thought you were capable of being 

And know that I can never truly leave you 

And will always remain beside you 

Watching over you in spirit 

And that the love I have for you lives on 

Through the connections you form 

The kindness and compassion you share 

And the future relationships and friendships you cultivate. 

And until we are one day reunited 

I will remain with you 

Through the storms and chaos of life

And am always beside you 

Walking with you, laughing with you, crying with you and smiling with you

And I am proud of you for being strong 

I am proud of you for being brave 

And I am proud of you for being you.

Words by Tahlia Hunter 

Excerpt from my eBook Meditations: Words To Uplift Your Soul, available in August. My other eBooks may be found at this link: https://www.tahliahunter.com/online-store

Artwork by the very talented Jimmy Lawlor. Follow him at this link: https://www.facebook.com/LawlorJimmy

Did She Know?

 

She’s gone. You ache for her but you will no longer be blessed by her presence. She’s dead and a piece of you is dead too. She slipped away quickly. She slipped away before you could get all of her insight, her knowledge, her memories, her expertise. She slipped away before you could tell her everything. 

She died with things left unsaid, because let’s face it, there is always more to be said. Always more hugs to be given. Always more memories to make. Always more left to say, to know, to wonder.

In her absence I find myself yearning for answers to the questions that pierce my heart and soul. Sometimes in the middle of the night, sometimes while in line at the store, sometimes while driving down the road, these questions pop up and remind me of the harsh reality of her death. She isn’t here. She can’t answer. I won’t know. 

But it doesn’t stop me from asking…

Did she know that her smile could light up a room? That I would still remember it like I saw it yesterday. That when an image of her pops in my head, her best accessory is always her smile.

Did she know that her influence is endless? That we would listen to her with intentionality now that she is gone and honor her in every way possible. 

Did she know that she was loved? Truly loved. A love so deep, so pure, so effortless, that it occupies a part of our heart and soul that no other love will ever replace.

Did she know how many people admired her, looked up to her, and would miss her when she was gone? Did she know the amount of people that saw her as an inspiration?

Did she know how much she changed our lives? Did she know that even from the grave she’d be pushing us to be the best version of ourselves? That even from the grave she’d be inspiring us and motivating us to live our best lives?

Did she know that she was more than a mother? That she was the best teacher, friend, counselor, nurse, and so many others. 

Did she know the many roles that she played in our life? Did she know how many empty spaces she would leave behind?

Did she know that she was my hero, my person, my everything? 

Did she know all that she was? Did she know all that she was loved for? Did she know her greatness, her never-ending legacy, her joy?

Did she know that she can’t be replaced? That she can’t be forgotten? That she is missed so fiercely it changes the composition of our heart?

If not, I’m telling her now. Wherever she is. Whatever her view. I say...

Mom, you are loved and missed more powerful than words can describe. You were everything and remain everything. Your smile, your laugh, your touch and your life, are irreplaceable. You are the holder of a piece of our hearts. You are the keeper of a spot in our soul. Your absence hasn’t changed your importance, it’s solidified it. You are and have always been our everything. 

xox, Chels

Written by Chelsea Ohlemiller.

Originally published here (2019): http://hopeandharshrealities.com/did-she-know/

You Don’t Just Lose Someone Once…

 You Don’t Just Lose Someone Once…

You lose them over and over,

sometimes many times a day.

When the loss, momentarily forgotten,

creeps up,

and attacks you from behind.

Fresh waves of grief as the realization hits home,

they are gone.

Again.

You don’t just lose someone once,

you lose them every time you open your eyes to a new dawn,

and as you awaken,

so does your memory,

so does the jolting bolt of lightning that rips into your heart,

they are gone.

Again.

Losing someone is a journey,

not a one-off.

There is no end to the loss,

there is only a learned skill on how to stay afloat,

when it washes over.

Be kind to those who are sailing this stormy sea,

they have a journey ahead of them,

and a daily shock to the system each time they realize, they are gone,

Again.

You don’t just lose someone once,

you lose them every day,

for a lifetime.

Donna Ashworth 

From ‘I wish I knew’: https://amzn.to/3JVMJlZ

Art by Clouded Dreams on Etsy 

Clouded Dreams Studio

#griefquotes #grief

Ivone Rodrigues

Ivone Rodrigues (48) of Georgia died April 11th, 2019 in the Wellstar Cobb Hospital, Austell, Georgia. 

She was born in Sao Filipe, Fogo, Cabo Verde daughter of Olivio and Clarise G. (Goncalves) Rodrigues of Brockton. Ivone loved to cook and socialize with her family and friends. 

In addition to her parents she is survived by 3 sons, Charles DeBarros, Davonne DeBarros and Marcus DeBarros all of Georgia, 2 daughters, Kayla Cannata and Kiara Rodrigues both of Georgia, 7 brothers, Joao Rodrigues, Joao Andrade, Julio Rodrigues, Arlindo Rodrigues, Jose Antonio Rodrigues, Irlando Centeio and Andre Cardoso, 5 sisters, Ilione Rodrigues, Regina Rodrigues, Carla Rodrigues, Landa Cardoso and Maria Rosa Soares, 2 grandchildren, James Cannata and Mah'Lyse Cannata, many nieces and nephews. 

Services in the Home of Funerarias Multi Culturel 238 Court Street Brockton Wednesday April 17th at 9:30 am. Followed by a Funeral Mass in St. Edith Stein Church 71 E Main Street Brockton at 10: 30 am. Burial will follow in Melrose Cemetery. Visitation in the Funeral Home Tuesday April 16th from 6-9 pm.

Frederick C. "Sonny" Mercier, Jr.

In Loving Memory of Frederick C. "Sonny" Mercier, Jr.

Frederick C. “Sonny” Mercier, Jr., age 88, of Brockton, died unexpectedly, February 11, 2019, at Good Samaritan Medical Center. Sonny was the loving husband for 58 years of Beverly (Bishop) Mercier. Born, raised and educated in Brockton, he was the son of the late Frederick C. and Helen R. (Frawley) Mercier. Sonny served in Austria with the Army during the Korean War and was a longtime member of the Whitman VFW and Easton American Legion. For 32 years, he worked in construction with his father at FC Mercier & Son and retired in 1995 after working with his sons for 16 years at Mercier Garage. A cowboy at heart, he loved horses and old westerns. He also enjoyed summers in Mashpee, fishing, hunting, antique cars and his dogs, especially his latest companion Pippin. He was an avid storyteller, recounting his many colorful stories to whoever would listen. Spending time with his family was most important to him. He was especially proud of his five grandchildren, spoiling them every chance he got and watching them grow into accomplished young adults. He was loved and respected by many dear friends. Sonny is survived by his children Fred C. Mercier, III and his wife Peg of East Bridgewater, John F. Mercier of Brockton, and Beth A. Boucher and her husband Bob of Brockton and grandchildren Kate and Ryan Mercier and Sarah, Kyle and Alaina Boucher. He was the brother of Beverly A. Bercovitz of Easton, Audrey Hood of East Bridgewater and the late Charlotte Vose; brother in law of Claire Cummings, Lois Bishop, James Bishop and his wife Colleen all of Brockton and the late Dennis Bishop and Lawrence Cummings. He is also survived by many nieces and nephews. Visiting Hours will be held in the Conley Funeral Home, 138 Belmont Street (Rte 123) Brockton, Thursday 4-8pm. The funeral procession will gather at the funeral home Friday at 9:30am for a funeral Mass in Our Lady of Lourdes Church at 10:30am. Burial will follow in Pine Hill Cemetery. Donations in Sonny’s name may be made to St. Jude Children’s Hospital, Operation Smile, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105.

Joan E. (Foster) Chassey

---

Joan E. (Foster) Chassey, of Middleboro, formerly of Brockton, passed away on Monday, October 29, 2018 at the age of 82. The former wife of Phillip E.S. Chassey of Taunton. The loving Mother of Phillip E.F. 3rd Chassey of East Bridgewater, Craig Chassey of Brockton, Christopher Chassey of San Antonio, Texas, and the late Mark Chassey of Brockton. Grandmother of Katherine Chassey of San Antonio, Texas. Visiting hours will be held in the Sampson-Hickey-Grenier Funeral Home, 309 Main St., Brockton on Sunday, Nov. 4, 1 - 4 p.m . A graveside service will be held at Coweeset Cemetery, 875 Pearl St., Brockton, on Monday, Nov. 5, at 11 a.m. Relatives and friends respectfully invited to attend. For directions or to sign an online condolence visit www.mackinnonfuneralhomes.com.

Published in The Enterprise on Nov. 2, 2018

Kristine (Briggs) Coose

IN LOVING MEMORY  of

Kristine (Briggs) Coose

March 30, 1964 - April 25, 2018

Kristine (Briggs) Coose 54 years old of Hanson passed away surrounded by her family on April 25, 2018, after a long battle with breast cancer. 

Kristine was born on March 30, 1964 in Hanover, MA. She graduated from Hanover High School in 1982. She was the beloved daughter of Frederick and Gail Briggs of Pembroke formerly of Hanover. 

Kristine was the loving wife of Robert Coose, devoted mother of Michael and Jillian, dear sister of Frederick "Rick" Briggs, Jr., and his partner Ruth Glyn of Norton, adored aunt of Lindsay and Julia Briggs.

Kristine was the owner of Simply Country Store. She also organized vendor and craft fairs. 

Kristine was an accomplished equestrian rider who grew up riding and working at Briggs Stables. She won hundreds of 1st place ribbons and trophy’s over the years. She also worked as a riding instructor at Briggs Stables. Kristine and her horse Missy went on to join Carl Catani’s River Wind Farm while adding to her ribbons and trophy’s total on the show circuit.

Kristine enjoyed working in the yard and she loved animals. She adopted her cat and dog from rescue shelters. She also enjoyed raising chickens which she referred to as “her girls”. 

Kristine enjoyed vacationing with her family on Disney Cruises during the spring and going to North Conway during the summer.

Visiting hours in the Sullivan Funeral Home, 2 Maquan St at the corner of Rte 14 & 58 in Hansonon Thursday from 4-8 PM. A funeral service will be celebrated on Friday at 10AM at the First Congregational Church of Hanover, 547 Hanover St, Rte 139 in Hanover. Burial will follow at Hanover Center Cemetery.

Audrey V. FitzSimmons

IN LOVING MEMORY OF

Audrey V. FitzSimmons

Dec 8, 1929 Apr 12, 2018

Obituary

FRANKLIN – Audrey Vivian FitzSimmons passed away peacefully in her sleep on April 12, 2018, less than two years after the death of her loving husband Frederic. She was born on December 8, 1929 in Quincy, MA to Chester and Vivian Baker. 

She graduated from Oliver Ames High School. She was the beloved mother of nine children. Susan and Dan Burns of Enosburg, VT, Carol and Richard Fontinha of Mars Hill, Maine, Michael and Jane FitzsSimmons of Brockton, MA, Ann and Bill Tucker of Middleboro, MA, James FitzSimmons and friend Lisa Wong of West Bridgewater, MA, Joseph and Jennifer FitzSimmons of St Albans, VT, Julie and George Tavares of Leland, MA, Janet and Paul Wells of Castle Hayne, NC and Mary FitzSimmons and Rick Bence of Swansea, MA. She was a grandmother to 36 grandchildren and many more great and great, great grandchildren.  

She worked for many years as a Home Health Aide and as a nurses aide at Forest Manor Nursing Home in Middleboro, MA and at Brockton Hospital. She retired in 1991. Shortly after retirement, Audrey and Frederic sold the homestead in Brockton and bought land in Franklin, VT where they made a new home in what is lovingly referred to by all as “The Barn.” This was their forever home for the remainder of their days.  

She was actively involved in Franklin United Church and the women of the Franklin Historical Society. You could always find her helping out with the luncheons, the ice cream socials and preparing meals for families in the community. 

Audrey was always known as “Gramma” or “Mumma” to everyone. She was a remarkable, selfless woman who taught us all by example. She was hard working, compassionate, tireless, silly, sarcastic at times and above all, loving. An amazing woman, with a strong faith in God. She lived her life loving Him and pouring that love out to everyone she met. A trip to the grocery store was a chance to reunite with old friends and meet new ones. Her eyes would dance when she looked at you and she had a gift for drawing people into conversation and made everyone she met feel at ease. She was playful and would challenge anyone to arm wrestle any time, anywhere! 

She was kind to everyone. Any stranger would become a new friend to our Mom. Even if there was an unexpected guest at Christmas, she was sure to have a gift tucked away somewhere to give to them. 

She loved to go to yard sales and could find the beauty and joy in the littlest trinket. 

And of course Sunday dinners were the best! The “barn” would be crowded with family, love, laughter and always way too much food! Her roast beef was legendary. It was her greatest joy to be surrounded by family and friends. She never forgot a birthday and baked us endless cakes to celebrate. 

Our beautiful Mother, please know that you made us smile whenever you walked through the door. You always had a story to tell or a memory to brighten our day. Happiness is all you ever bestowed upon all those around you. Our hearts were always lifted whenever you were around. So beautiful a lady to walk this earth. Soar on eagles wings dear Mumma. 

Funeral Services will be held Saturday, April 21, 2018 at 1:00 PM at the East Franklin Union Church, 4610 Lake Road/Vermont Route 120, East Franklin with Rev. Dr. Jason McConnell officiating. Interment will follow in the East Franklin Cemetery. Visiting hours will be held Friday, April 20, 2018 from 4-7 PM at the Spears Funeral Home, 96 Dickinson Ave., Enosburg Falls. Condolences, photos and favorite memories may be shared through www.gossfs.com

Rose M. (English) Lovetere

IN LOVING MEMORY  of

Rose M. (English) Lovetere

Rose M. (English) Lovetere, 78, of Brockton since 1969, passed away June 7, 2017. She was employed in the local garment industry at Fashion Affiliates and Signature Apparel until retirement, and was devoted to all her cherished family members. Rose was the wife of the late Joseph Lovetere; beloved mother of Joseph Lovetere Jr. and his wife Carol, Christopher Lovetere and his wife Mary-ann, Sandie Lovetere, Michele Peluso and her husband Robert, and Gina Fisher and her husband Darren; grandmother of Amanda Lovetere, Ken Lovetere, Dan Lovetere, John Vilk, Tara Vilk Green, Emily Vilk, Alexander Lovetere, Zachary Lovetere, Rachell Scholl, Stacey Scholl Mavilia, Jonathan Peluso, Joseph Peluso, Heather Mendes McGraw, Nicole Mendes and Abel Mendes; and a great-grandmother of Victoria Nakhoul, Maximus Pittman, Jasmine Pitman, Jeffrey McGraw, William McGraw, Arianna McGraw, Damian Mendes, Matteo Lovetere and Quinn Lovetere; she was predeceased by her 4 siblings. Following cremation, all are welcome to her memorial Mass on Saturday, June 17 at 10:30 a.m. in St. Michael Church, 87 North Main St. Avon. Private committal. In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis TN 38105. (www.stjude.org)

Steve W. Rapoza

IN LOVING MEMORY OF
Steve W. Rapoza

Steve W. Rapoza, age 59, of Brockton,
died Wednesday July 20, 2016 at Beth Israel Deaconess Hospital.
He was the loving husband of Susan L. (Harris) Rapoza.
Born in New Bedford,  Steve was the son of
Donald and Jean (Roderiques) Rapoza
of Dartmouth.  He was raised in both New Bedford and Brockton,
and was a graduate of Brockton High School. Steve was a loving
husband, father, son and brother.  He passionately loved his children
and took great pride in their accomplishments.
Today they are all committed to Jesus, following his
example of putting Christ first.  He was most proud of that.
Steve loved music of all kinds. Cars, clothes and fashion
were also at the top of his list. If he wasn’t shopping for himself,
he was shopping for someone else.  He was a kind, compassionate man
who was a loving, giving friend to many.
Most of all, Steve loved to sing, and was a talented vocalist.
He sang in bands from the time he was a young boy, but his greatest joy
came when he was able to sing in church for the Lord.
He was involved in Easter Musicals, Choir and Solo Ministry.
He always said singing for the Lord was the greatest blessing of all.
Nothing compared. Music was the language of Steve’s soul….
He strived for excellence in all that he did.
He always believed you should give God your best, and he did!
Steve is also survived by his children,
Nicole Jones of Bridgewater, Rayce, Bryce, Blake
and Layla Rapoza all of Brockton; two sisters 

Diane Rapoza of New Bedford and Wendy Rapoza of Jamaica Plain; 

nieces Jean Marie and Lisa Marie Guzman both of New Bedford, and great nieces and nephews Donald Guzman, Justin Neves, Naji Shabazz, Hayley Febus and Aliza Muniz all of New Bedford.

A Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, August 6, 2016 at the Brockton Assembly of God Church, 199 Warren Avenue, Brockton, at 10:30am.

Death Changes Everything....

Samuel Philip Andrews

IN LOVING MEMORY OF

Samuel Philip Andrews

March 5, 2002 - May 11, 2016

Samuel P. Andrews, 14, of Hanson died on May 11, 2016.
 Sam was the loving son of Philip J. Andrews of Hanson, Melissa M. Andrews and her partner Jared Royse of Chelmsford. He also leaves behind his loving sister, Abigail Andrews of Hanson, and his younger siblings, Logan Gonyea, Ella and Jay Royse of Chelmsford.  In addition to his parents and siblings, he is survived by his grandmothers, Phyllis M. Andrews of Hanson, Sandra Andrade of  New Bedford and many aunts, uncles and cousins.

He was born March 5, 2002. Sammy was an 8th grader at Hanson Middle School.  He was a rambunctious boy that loved riding ATVs, dirt bikes and an occasional lawn mower.  He took many family trips to Vermont. Most recently he went on an RV trip across the Southwest states. As most kids his age, he liked playing video games, hanging out with his friends and country music. He was known to have an ungoverned sense of humor. He was happy and proud to be a trusted helper to his grandmother and especially being rewarded with a brownie (without nuts) or a very large bowl of ice cream. Sammys presence brought true joy to everyone who loved him, a sensitive soul who asked for so little but gave so very much.

Visiting hours will be held Sunday, May 15, from 2-6 p.m. in the Blanchard Funeral Chapel, Plymouth Street (Rte. 58 at the rotary), Whitman. His funeral service will be held Monday, May 16, at 11 a.m. in the Chapel.

Following the service, Sammy will be laid to rest beside his Grandpa at Fern Hill Cemetery in Hanson.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Sams honor to Samaritanshope.org

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Frederic FitzSimmons

IN LOVING MEMORY OF

Frederic FitzSimmons

September 6, 1927 - May 2, 2016

FRANKLIN - Frederic J FitzSimmons of Franklin, Vermont passed away peacefully on
May 2, 2016 with his family at his side. 

He was born in Dorchester, MA on September 6, 1927. He was the son of Julia Coveney FitzSimmons and Edward Joseph FitzSimmons. He is predeceased by his sisters Marie McFadden, and Joan Stinson, his brothers Richard Seton FitzSimmons, Paul FitzSimmons, and
his granddaughter Julia Eldora FitzSimmons. 

He is survived by his loving wife, Audrey Vivian FitzSimmons of Franklin VT, his sister Celestine Gookin of Norton, Massachusetts and his nine children. Susan and Dan Burns of Enosburg, VT Carol and Richard Fontina of Mars Hill, Maine, Michael and Jane FitzSimmons of Brockton, MA, Ann and William Tucker of Middleboro, MA, James FitzSimmons and his partner Lisa Wong of West Bridgewater, MA, Joseph and Jennifer FitzSimmons of Swanton, VT, Julia FitzSimmons Chartier of Northampton, MA, Janet and Paul Wells of Enosburg, VT, and Mary FitzSimmons and her friend Rick Bence of Swansea, MA. He was also was the proud Grandpa of 37 grandchildren and 32 great grandchildren as well as many nieces, nephews and cousins that he has faithfully kept in touch with.

He entered the Marines at the age of 16 and served his country in World War Two in the occupation of Japan in Chi Chi Jima. He was in the 1st Battalion, 3rd Regiment of the USMC. He was honorably discharged on August 21, 1946.

Daddy married Audrey Baker on July 7, 1950 and they have enjoyed 65 years together. They spent their early years raising their family in Brockton, MA and retired to Franklin, VT in 1990.

He was a member of Local #276 Plumbers and Pipe Fitters of Brockton, MA where he was a Steamfitter for his working years. He was also a member of Local #51 of Providence RI. 

Daddy’s character can only be described as strong, brutally honest, lover of family and his country, polite at all times but, at the same time able to be forthright and stand up for any injustice.
He loved his country and proudly flew the US flag outside his home on the flag pole he
made himself out of polished steel.

Family always came first to Daddy. He and Mama hosted Sunday dinner for anyone who could come, through all the years of their married life. That’s a lot of roast beef dinners! It was always the safest and happiest gathering place for all of us.

Daddy was an avid reader, lover of the Boston Herald newspaper, politics, the New England Patriots and FOX news. He enjoyed gardening, and planting trees. The trees surrounding his Franklin home were planted as saplings in the early 1990’s and he had the privilege of seeing them mature to lofty heights. He was a staunch Republican and a member of the NRA and the Heritage Foundation. 

He and his wife enjoyed many trips with his fellow war Veterans travelling to Gettysburg, PA., and Washington DC, spending time together and honoring their fallen comrades.
This was very important to him. 

For the last weeks of his life as he adjusted to the reality of his diagnosis and the time he had left, he demonstrated tremendous humility, strength and grace. Letting his nine children and extended family care for him. He was never without a smile for each of us.
He continued to be his witty and playful self, surprising us with his keen sense of all that was going on.
So much so that we were able to laugh and cry with him.
We even enjoyed writing down all the funny things he said which we will fondly refer to as “Fredisms!”

Most importantly, we would like to share that after Daddy received a visit from a priest at UVM Medical Center, he was able to say that he was in a “state of grace with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ and that it felt like Christmas”. He was at peace with God, his face visibly displaying serenity and happiness.

Funeral Services will be held Saturday, May 7, 2016 at 11:00 AM the East Franklin Union Church, 4610 Lake Road/Vermont Route 120, East Franklin with Rev. Jason McConnell officiating. Interment with Military Honors will follow in the East Franklin Cemetery.

Visiting hours will be held Friday from 5-8 PM at the Spears Funeral Home, 96 Dickinson Ave., Enosburg Falls. 

For those who wish, contributions in Fred’s memory may be made to the Franklin County Home Health Agency – Hospice Program, 3 Home Health Circle, St. Albans, VT 05478.

God's Garden

God looked around his garden
And found an empty place.
He then looked down upon the earth,
And saw your tired face.

He put His arms around you
And lifted you to rest.
God’s garden must be beautiful,
He always takes the best.

He knew that you were suffering,
He knew that you were in pain.
He knew that you would never
Get well on earth again.

He saw the road was getting rough
And the hills were hard to climb.
So He closed your weary eyelids
And whispered “Peace be thine.”

It broke our hearts to lose you
But you did not go alone…
For part of us went with you
The day God called you home.

 Author: unknown

Mary M. Chassey (Trynasty)

IN LOVING MEMORY OF

Mary M. Chassey (Trynasty)

of Brockton passed away peacefully at her home on Sunday April 10, 2016 at the age of 67. She was the beloved wife of Craig S. Chassey. Daughter of the late Frank and Jennie (Nickolauk) Trynasty. Sister of Irene Trynasty of Brockton, Kathy Rogers of Plymouth, and Peter Oneglia of NJ.  Aunt of Derek, Peter, Michael, and Kathlyn.  Mary was formerly employed at Avecia Bio-Tech in Milford, the American Red Cross in Dedham, and the Goddard Hospital in Stoughton. She enjoyed working with computers and loved  to vacation by the ocean in Newport, RI. Mary loved all kinds of animals and is survived by her cat Pucci and her dog Pikacua.  

Visiting hours will be held in the Sampson-Hickey-Grenier Funeral Home 309 Main St., Brockton on Thursday 5-8 PM. Services will be held in the Funeral Home on Friday at 10AM. Relatives and friends respectfully invited to attend. Internment Coweeset Cemetery, Brockton

VISITATION

Thursday
April 14, 2016
5:00 PM to 8:00 PM
Sampson-Hickey-Grenier Funeral & Cremation Service 
Brockton, MA

FUNERAL SERVICE

 

Friday
April 15, 2016
11:00 AM
Sampson-Hickey-Grenier Funeral & Cremation Service 
Brockton, MA

Rae Bakka

IN LOVING MEMORY OF

Rae Bakka

December 7, 1927 - November 9, 2015

Rae Bakka, a longtime resident, died Monday,

Nov. 9,2015 at Golden Living Center-Oak Hill 

in Middleboro. Rae was born December 7, 1927,

in Boston, daughter of Charles and Helen Franz.

She was raised with 3 sisters, May Allen, Helen Hanson,

Claire Forbes, and a brother, John Allen, all of

whom predeceased her.

Rae married the love of her life, Robert "Bob" Bakka,

in 1951. He preceded her in death July 30, 2000,

leaving her broken hearted. She had several lifelong

friends, her closest, Dotty Glassford passed away

unexpectedly this past February.
 
Rae's door was always open to family, friends and

neighbors, she loved to entertain.

Rae liked crafts, puzzles, and painting, but her favorite

pastime was watching old black and white movies.

She loved the dancing. She became an immediate fan

of Dancing With the Stars. Rae also had a 

tremendous love

for animals. She is survived by several nieces,

nephews, great-nieces,

and great-nephews who are scattered from 

Massachusetts to Florida.  

At her request, there were no services. 

Rae was buried with Bob at the 

Massachusetts National Cemetery in Bourne,

November 10, 2015. 


Published in The Enterprise on Nov. 18, 2015

Mark J. Chassey "Ben"

In Loving Memory of

Mark J. Chassey

"Ben"

August 15, 1960 - October 22, 2015

Mark John Chassey, "Ben",of Brockton,

passed suddenly on Thursday,

October 22, 2015 at the age of 55. Mark was a lifelong resident of

Brockton. He was a retired truck driver for F. W. Webb, Brockton.

 His passions included fishing and automotive repair. He is

survived by his wife, Jennifer Crosby of Brockton; mother Joan

Foster Chassey; father Phillip Chassey II and wife Paulette of

Taunton, and three brothers: Phillip Chassey III and wife Debra of

East Bridgewater, Craig Chassey and wife Mary of Brockton, and

Christopher Chassey and wife Julianne, and a niece Kathlyn

of San Antonio, Texas.

-At the request of the Chassey family, the wake and funeral will be private - 

GUEST BOOK

October 28, 2015

Jennifer and Chassey Family, So Sorry for your Loss. Noreen O'Driscoll (Julieann's Sister)

~ 

Noreen O'Driscoll,

Spring, Texas

October 28, 2015

We are so very sorry to hear about Mark's passing. You will be in our thoughts

~ 

Bernie & Mary Sawyer,

Lakeland, Florida

October 26, 2015

You will be greatly missed my friend . R.I.P. Ben

~ 

Susan Ainslie,

onset, Massachusetts

October 26, 2015

Rest in Peace my friend, Rest in Peace, Kenny Belcher

October 25, 2015

Uncle Ben u was the only father figure I had as a kid . We had so much great memories together.
U had a great impact in my life. You showed me how to do the right thing how to be a man.
My heart is crushed losing you. I will never forget our memories together all the great times we had.
U will never be forgotten. I love you with all my heart Uncle Ben Your nephew Alan

~ 

Alan Paine,

Brockton, Massachusetts

October 25, 2015

For my Uncle Mark

Sadly missed along life's way,
quietly remembered every day...
No longer in our life to share,
but in our hearts, you're always there.

I love and will miss you Uncle Mark.

~ 

Kathlyn

October 25, 2015

YOU WERE MIGHTLY LOVED BY YOUR FAMILY AND WILL REMAIN IN OUR HEARTS FOREVER.
Aunt Janet

October 25, 2015

They say it takes a minute to find something special in a person,
an hour to appreciate them, and a day to love them,
but it takes an entire lifetime to forget them.

You will be missed just be sure to have the Nova ready and we shall ride together again. Love always

~ 

Julieann & Kathlyn

October 25, 2015

TO MY FAMILY
MY HEART GOES OUT TO HIS DAD,JENNIFER,HIS 3 BROTHERS,PAULETTE &
AUNTS,UNCLES & COUSINS!
WE LOVE YOU MARK & WILL MISS YOUR BEAUTIFUL SMILE!!
REST IN PEACE BEN!!

~ 

AUNTY JUNE CHASSEY-ANNINO,

INVERNESS, Florida

October 25, 2015

You are in my heart forever .

~ 

Dad

Footprints

One night a man had a dream.
He dreamed he was walking along
the beach with Lord.
Across the sky flashed scenes from his life.
For each scene, he noticed two sets of
footprints in the sand,
One belonged to him and the other to the Lord.

When the last scene of his life flashed before him,
He looked back at the footprints in the sand.
He noticed that many times along the path of his life,
there was only one set of footprints.  He also noticed
that it happened at the very lowest and saddest times in his life.

This really bothered him, and he questioned the Lord about it.
“Lord, you said that once I decided to follow you,
You’d walk with me all the way.
But I have noticed that during the most troublesome
times of my life, there is only one set of footprints.
I don’t understand why, when I needed
You most, You would leave me.”

The LORD replied, “My precious, precious child,
I love you and I would never leave you.
During your times of trial and suffering,
When you see only one set of footprints,
It was then that I carried you.”