Paul J. Rushia

Paul J. Rushia of Winchendon; 55 Winchendon Paul J. Rushia, 55, of Winchendon, died unexpectedly Friday, August 15, 2008 in Heywood Hospital . Paul, son of the late Walter W. and Rose A. (Plante) Rushia was born in Gardner February 10, 1953 and lived here all of his life. His beloved wife, Lori C. (Burnette) Rushia died August 31, 2007. Paul graduated from Gardner High School in 1971 and went on to receive both his Bachelors and Masters Degrees. He taught at Gardner High School for a few years and then took a position as a Social Worker for the Department of Social Services where he has worked ever since. He enjoyed antiquing with his wife and together enjoyed decorating their home each Halloween on Clark Street in Gardner from 1991 to 1999. Paul enjoyed spending time with their family, and trips to Nubbell Lighthouse in Maine with his wife. Paul is survived by three sons; Eric N. Hartwell of Winchendon, Scott N. Hartwell of Shrewsbury and Sean P. OÕBrien of Winchendon, three brothers; Donald Rushia of Gardner, David Rushia of Norton and Gary Rushia of Gardner, two grandchildren Timothy and Caspian and many nieces and nephews including Shawn Rushia, with whom he lived. RUSHIA You are invited to attend his funeral service in Lamoureux-Fletcher Community Funeral Home, 105 Central St, Gardner on Thursday, August 21 at 11AM. Rev. Francis A. Roberge, Pastor of Immaculate Heart of Mary Church in Winchendon will officiate. Burial will follow in Calvary Cemetery, Winchendon. Calling hours in the funeral home will be held from 5-8 PM Wednesday August 20. Contributions may be made to the Department of Social Services Children and Families Fund, 690 Mechanic St., Suite 100, Leominster, MA 01473. This fund will be used to set up a children's room at the Department of Social Services in memory of Lori and Paul Rushia. For directions, to view the online video tribute to Paul or to sign the online guest book , please visit our website at www.fletcherfuneral.com. Arrangements have been entrusted to the care of Lamoureux-Fletcher Community Funeral Home, 105 Central St., Gardner.