Theresa F. Stotz

Theresa Frances Marie "Tess" Stotz (Ondrick), passed away peacefully on March 20, 2026 at the age of 94. Born on July 23, 1931, in Chicopee, Massachusetts, she was the cherished only child of the late George and Stella Ondrick.

Tess grew up in Chicopee Falls, Massachusetts, where she graduated from Chicopee High School before pursuing higher education at Our Lady of the Elms College. There, she studied sociology, math, and education. Her passion for teaching led her to further her studies at American International College, where she earned her special needs teaching certificate.

For over 40 years, Tess dedicated herself to teaching, beginning as a first-grade teacher before transitioning to special education—a role she held most dear—until her retirement in 1992. Known as "Terry" to her colleagues and students alike, she taught primarily in the Chicopee school system at Belcher, Chapin, and Litwin elementary schools. Her love for her students was boundless and reciprocated two-fold by those whose lives she touched.

In addition to her professional accomplishments, Theresa built a beautiful life with her husband of 50 years, Donald E. Stotz, who predeceased her in 2008. Together they raised their four children in Indian Orchard, Massachusetts. Their home was a haven of love and laughter, where family and friends were always welcome. In their later years, Theresa and Don moved to South Hadley, Massachusetts, where they spent over two decades creating cherished memories with a close-knit community of friends.

A devout Catholic throughout her life, Tess found solace and strength in her faith. She was a dedicated parishioner at several churches over the years, including St. Patrick's in Chicopee, St. Matthews in Indian Orchard, and St. Patrick's in South Hadley. She was a Eucharistic Minister and CCD teacher for three parishes. Even as her eyesight and hearing declined in later years, attending weekly Mass brought her peace and fulfillment.

Theresa is survived by her four children: William and his wife Ilana of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania; Ellen and her husband Charlie of Kennebunk, Maine; Michael of South Hadley, Massachusetts; and Tim and his wife Maria of Medway, Massachusetts. She also leaves behind nine beloved grandchildren: Stephanie, Ross, Lukas, Jacob, Karina, Caleb, Annika, TJ, and Tommy. They will miss her dearly.

In honor of Theresa's memory, donations may be made to Sunshine Village, 75 Litwin Lane, Chicopee MA 01020 or www.sunshine.us.

A funeral Mass will be celebrated at St. Patrick's Catholic Church, 30 Main Street, South Hadley, Massachusetts on Friday, May 22 at 11am. Private burial services will follow at the convenience of the family.

May Theresa Frances "Tess" Stotz's legacy of love and dedication continue to inspire all who knew her. She will be deeply missed but fondly remembered by many whose lives she touched.