Joseph F. Fielding Jr.

Joseph Francis Fielding, 94, of Manchester, died March 29, 2014 surrounded by his loving family.

Born in Boston on October 6, 1919, he was the son of Joseph F. and Gertrude A. (Whitehead) Fielding. He was educated in the Boston school system and earned both his bachelor's and master's degrees from Boston University.

During WWII, he served valiantly in the US Army, earning several commendations including the distinguished service cross, and purple heart medal.

Prior to retirement after 32 years in education, Joseph had been master at Boston Latin School for 18 years. He also served as supervisor of the Boston public school district's physical education department.

He was a loving, devoted father and husband. His family was the center of his life and he will be remembered always for his sense of humor and generosity.

His family would like to thank the wonderful staff at the VA Medical Center's Community Living Center for the compassionate and quality care they offered Joseph during his time there.

He was predeceased by his wife Eileen A. (Bradley) Fielding in 2006, and two daughters, Marcia Bates in 2008 and Joanne L. Dennison in 2003. He was also predeceased by his sister Catherine Fielding.

Family members include his children, Mark Fielding and his wife Marie of Ocala, Fl, Paula Moore and husband Robert of Manchester, Brian Fielding and wife Maureen of East Greenwich, RI, Barbara Fielding of Athens, Me; 12 grandchildren, many great-grandchildren; one sister, Lorraine Kelly of Winthrop, MA; many nephews, nieces, and cousins.

A memorial Mass of Christian burial was celebrated on Monday, April 7, 2014 in St. Pius X Church, Manchester. Committal prayers will be in the NH State Veterans Cemetery, Boscawen, at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his memory to the Veteran's Recreational Fund, Acct #4031, Care of the VA Medical Center, 718 Smyth Road, Manchester, NH 03104.