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M. Moran Obituary
formerly of Fitchburg, MA
M. Marcus Moran Jr. (76) of Westminster, MA and formerly of Fitchburg, MA passed away at the Brigham and Women's Hospital on December 1, 2019. He was surrounded by his loving wife and three children. Marcus was born on April 19, 1943 in Fitchburg, MA, son of the late M. Marcus Moran Sr. and Claire (Aubuchon) Moran.
Marcus was a graduate of Julie Country Day School, Leominster, and Notre Dame High School, Fitchburg (1962). Marcus graduated with honors from Nichols College (1966), where he received his Bachelor of Business Administration and was a member of Zeta Alpha Phi Scholastic Honor Society. Marcus received a Master of Business Administration degree from Babson College (1967) with highest honors and was a member of Beta Gamma Sigma, a National Honor Business Fraternity. In 2018, Marcus was the recipient of an Honorary Doctor of Business Administration from Nichols College.
Marcus' employment career started off as an instructor at North Shore Community College in Beverly from 1967 to 1970. During those academic years, he co-authored a business mathematics textbook for Junior and Community Colleges, with William E. Aubuchon, lll.
In 1970, Marcus, along with his wife and baby, moved back to Fitchburg to begin his business career at W. E. Aubuchon Co, Inc. (a company his grandfather, W. E. Aubuchon, started in 1908). Positions held included Personnel Manager, Treasurer, President, and CEO, retiring in 2017as Vice Chairman of Acquisitions.
Marcus' volunteer service was extensive and included trusteeships at Julie Country School, Cushing Academy, Notre Dame Academy, Nichols College and Fitchburg State College. He served twenty-nine years on the board of I C Federal Credit Union, ten of those years as Chairman. He was a Director of First Service Bank, Trustee and Clerk of the Fitchburg State College Foundation, Inc., Chairman of St. Paul Consortium of Catholic Schools, Inc. Marcus was President and Director of the local Boys and Girls Club, Fitchburg/Leominster; President, Director and Campaign Chairman of United Way of North Central Massachusetts; President and Director of the Fay Club, Inc. His memberships included Oak Hill Country Club, the Serra Club of Worcester North, and Business Education and Enrichment at Montachusett Regional Technical Vocational School. Marcus held directorships at Children's Aid and Family Service and the Thayer Symphony . He also served as the General Co-chairman of "The Private Edge" Campaign, Fitchburg State University and General Co-Chairman of Endowment and Improvement Fund, Julie Country Day, Inc.
As a young life guard, Marcus received the Key to the City of Fitchburg for saving a young girl's life. Other recognitions include Outstanding Young Men of America, Fitchburg State College Community Leadership Award. Mount Wachusett Community College Service Award, 1993 Boy Scouts' Distinguished Citizen of the Year Award, Who's Who in America, Elizabeth Ann Seton Award, and National Retail Hardware Association where two annual Moran Scholarships are awarded for the Retail Management Certificate Program each year.
Marcus is survived by his devoted wife of 52 years, Tonia (Francavilla) Moran. Together they have three children and six grandchildren. He will be dearly missed by son Marcus III, and wife Jennifer Moran of Westminster, MA; daughter, Courtney Moran of Westminster, MA; and son, Justin and wife Patricia Moran of Scituate, MA. Also survived by his youngest fan club, his grandchildren; Austin Marcus Moran, Connor Paul Moran, Nicholas Marcus Muller, Cullen Keating Moran, Alexis Claire Moran and Catherine Lillian Moran. Marcus is survived by his siblings, Dr. Michele Zide and Honorable Elliot Zide of Peru, VT; Dr. Kevin Moran and Katherine of Westminster: Dr. Peter Moran and Emilie of Hudson; and Gregory Moran and Deirdre of Westminster. He is also survived by his brother and sister-in-law; William and Rita Jean Francavilla of Barhamsville, VA and Beth Francavilla of Los Angeles, CA, as well as many nieces and nephews.
The family wishes to thank Dr. Maria Yialamas, Cioma, Dr. Patrick T. O'Gara and Dr. Ajay K. Singh of Brigham and Women's Hospital for many years of exceptional medical care.
Moran
A Funeral will be held on Monday, December 9, 2019 at 10am at St. Edward the Confessor, 10 Church St., Westminster, MA. Burial will be in Woodside Cemetery, Westminster. Calling hours will be held Sunday, December 8 from 3 to 7pm at Brandon Funeral Home, 305 Wanoosnoc Road, Fitchburg. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Moran Fund, an employee assistance fund, created in honor of Marcus' many devoted years and unwavering support to the hard working employees of Aubuchon Hardware Co. c/o W.E. Aubuchon Co., 95 Aubuchon Dr., Westminster, MA 01473 or The Serra Club of Worcester North for priestly vocations, c/o Norman Boudreau, I/C Credit Union, 300 Bemis Road, Fitchburg, MA 01420.
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Memories and Condolences
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Steve and MarySandra Foster
November 27, 2024
"The upright man walks in his integrity." (Proverbs 20:7). That certainly describes Marcus, a dear friend and classmate of my brother, Paul's, at Notre Dame High School. He was a true Renaissance man, a man for all seasons, a man of God. What the Bible says of good St. Joseph could also be said of Marcus: "He was a good and upright man...". MarySandra and I have the utmost respect for the Moran and Aubuchon Families, and today we will again say the Rosary for them, and our brother, Marcus. We are sure he is in the loving care of Our Lady, Notre Dame, the Theotokas ("God-bearer"). On behalf of the entire Deane C. Foster Family, all our love and prayers, Steve & MarySandra Foster, Friendswood, Texas
Steve & MarySandra Foster
November 27, 2023
Marcus was my brother, Paul's, friend and classmate at Notre Dame High School. He is not forgotten by anyone in the Deane C. Foster Family. The true Renaissance man, Marcus was indeed a man for all seasons. He was a credit to his God in his service to his community. Life is not ended, only beginning. Because of the Sacrifice of the Savior, Jesus Christ, we will see our brother again. Today, MarySandra and I plan to offer the Rosary for Marcus, his family, and all who love him. May Our Lady, Notre Dame, watch over our friend until we meet again. All our love and prayers to the Moran Family! Doceat me! Steve & MarySandra Foster, Friendswood, Texas
Steve & MarySandra Foster
November 27, 2022
Marcus and my late brother, Paul, were classmates at Notre Dame High School, and Paul considered him a dear friend. Paul had the utmost respect for Marcus. There's a biblical verse that perfectly describes Marcus: "The righteous man walks in his integrity". He was a true Renaissance man, able to do many things well, with a vast knowledge and appreciation for the world fashioned by the Creator God. Marcus was a credit to God, and served God's people well. MarySandra and I plan to say the Rosary again for Marcus. Most especially, he was a loving servant of Our Lady, Notre Dame. All our love and prayers, Steve and MarySandra Foster, Friendswood, Texas
Steve & MarySandra Foster
November 27, 2020
Marcus was in my brother, Paul's, class at Notre Dame High, and Paul considered him a great friend. Marcus was truly a Renaissance man, a man for all seasons, who lived a life of service to His God, and to Mary, Notre Dame. His life was filled with so many achievements that served others. He was a credit to the Christ. May he rest in peace, a sojourner on the path of life who brought great honor to His God. Today, we will offer the Rosary for our brother and all who love him. May God bless you all! Steve And MarySandra Foster, Friendswood, Texas
December 10, 2019
I come to know Marcus when he served as Fitchburg State's community fund drive chairman. He did a great job for the collrge, which he had served as a professor in the evening college. He went on to volunteer in the college Foundation and two terms in its board of Trustees. He did much to expand college opportunity in this region. Latter we worked together on the Board of the Boys and Girls Club. What a committed life he led. In these many years of working with him I always found him to be a gentleman of great character, inelligence, and moral authority. I will miss him.
Julie Grenier
December 8, 2019
A very dear man who loved his family and his community. A man I will always remember. My condolences to all.
Julie Grenier
December 8, 2019
A very dear man who loved his family and his community. A man I will always remember. My condolences to all.
Craig Perkins
December 7, 2019
Tonya, Marcus III, Justin and Courtney,
I know this must be a most challenging time and that words alone will do little to ease the profound sense of loss you must be feeling.
I am hopeful that the warm memories of your life experiences soon displace this void of loss.
I had the pleasure of working with Marcus for years and there is a word in Yiddish that fits him perfectly! It is a word that is not used lightly and is reserved for a very short list of souls.
Mensch: A person who can be relied on to act with honor and integrity. Responsibility fused with compassion, a sense that one's own personal needs and desires are limited by the needs and desires of others.
A mensch is driven by an innate decency, motivated by a sense of values to live up to but not out of regard for recognition. Marcus was a mensch through and through!
He was a rare soul who will be sorely missed.
My sincerest condolences.
Craig Perkins
Jeffrey Thomas
December 6, 2019
On Behalf of the entire Orgill Team:
All of us at Orgill, Inc. mourn the passing of Marcus Moran Jr. and unite in honoring the exemplary life of a great entrepreneur.
We appreciate that his inspiring leadership and pursuit of excellence has been instrumental in helping to lead a company with an enviable reputation in the Retail Hardware Industry.
As we reflect upon the high standards he espoused, we are reminded of the many contributions that Marcus orchestrated to make Aubuchon Hardware the best it can be.
Orgill joins with everyone who knew and loved him in offering our condolences to the entire Moran Family in their time of mourning.
We also know that the legacy that Marcus leaves behind offers both inspiration and challenge to us all. He will indeed be missed.
Jeff Thomas
Gail Grenier Thomas
December 6, 2019
Dear Tonia and Family. Please accept my sincere condolences for your loss. Thinking of you and your family at this difficult time.
December 6, 2019
Dear Tonia,
I have so many wonderful memories of time spent at your home and camp in Westminster as well as the Fay Club festivities over the years!
Marcus was always such a gentle, warm, enthusiastic soul who clearly adored his family and all life had to offer. I will never forget the first time I met you and Marcus. In 1975 Gary and I were making plans, with the help of Eliot and Michelle, to move to Lunenburg and set up his medical practice. As I remember, the Aubuchon van was new, and you and Marcus, with great enthusiasm, came to the Zide's to chauffeur us on a tour of the area. As Virginians, your "yankee hospitality" was a great beginning to our New England experience!
Though I'm back in Virginia now, please feel my arms around you and your wonderful family!
Kay Asher
Newport News
Va.
December 5, 2019
Dear Tonia, Marcus, Courtney, Justin -- I was privileged to meet your dear husband and father on several occasions. Those memories I will always cherish. He was truly a good man and a special person. You could tell that he truly cared about others and spent his life on helping others in need. I am very sorry for your loss. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. ---- with warmest regards, Bob DeVries - Midwest Fastener Corp
Gregory Moran
December 5, 2019
Sorry if this might appear slightly self centered (wanting to share) but as Marcus' youngest brother and co-worker at Aubuchon's for some 42 years, I must say that I am simply overwhelmed by everything I just read this bright sunny Thursday morning. I know that Marcus is looking down on all of us in contemplative admiration of each one of you. There are so many generous good deeds shared, observant perspectives, heartfelt embraces, and simple thanks that you can't help but get lost within collective emotions. In the end all I can feel is a true celebration of life engulfing us all. That we can take internally and embrace. Let us all learn just a little, grab a take away, and go live it as our own in our daily lives. All good! His loving brother, Gregory James
Brian and Cheryl Houle
December 4, 2019
When my husband Brian H. first went to interview for the job at Aubuchon warehouse in 1986 it was Marcus he met with. This began a 31 year relationship. He was a joy to work alongside with. He was very kind, generous and knew the right thing to say. When he saw a driver at a truck stop he would give them money for breakfast. He asked Brian to help move his daughter Courtney when she was in college. He would want others input into what could improve at the stores and he would fix it right away!! He would always have time to stop and talk about anything! He truly cared about all workers at Aubuchon Hardware. We love him and he will be sorely missed. May God bless his family and comfort you in the days to come.
Ann Racine
December 4, 2019
Dear Tonia and Family,
You are not alone in your sorrow. Those of us who served with Marcus at the Credit Union knew and loved him as a great leader and wonderful friend for more than thirty years!
We cherish his sense of humor, his gentle ways, and his valuable advice. When Marcus spoke, we all listened!
Many thanks Marcus for all the good times, community events, fundraisers, charitable work and your faith filled life! We will remember the lessons you taught us.
May the angels lead you into paradise and may your dear family know without any doubt, that you are always present in thoughts, memories, and prayer.
Ann
December 4, 2019
It is with deep sorrow that we learned of the passing of Marcus Moran. He was a gentleman, with a zest for life that few have. Always willing to help others and an example of who we would all aspire to be. Our sincere condolences go out to Tania and her family.
Mike Martin
Midwest Fastener
Steve and MarySandra Foster
December 4, 2019
Marcus was a classmate, and friend, of my late brother, Paul's, at Notre Dame High. Paul respected him greatly. Marcus was a real Renaissance man, a man for all seasons. We plan to offer the Rosary here in Texas for our brother,Marcus, and all who love him. Surely, the Blessed Mother, Notre Dame, will come to guide him safely to his heavenly home. On behalf of the whole Deane C. Foster Family, we send our love and prayers to the entire Moran Family. All our love and prayers, Steve and MarySandra Foster, Friendswood, Texas
Chris Aubuchon
December 4, 2019
Our paths rarely crossed for many years that said my the first memory of Marcus Jr. is ancient. Back when the cousins all knew each other by name, it was a sunny summer Sunday and nearly the entire clan was at camp in Westminster as usual. Standing on the old dock there approaching on the left was Uncle Mark at the helm of his first small wooden boat powered by a mighty 18 hp Evinrude. Towed behind was cousin Marko standing on a chair, the chair on a 36" green plywood disc doing 360's. Everyone on the dock, in the water, on shore and on the porch were cheering, clapping and laughing at this amazing sight. I also remember Marcus visiting with my parents on Warren St. First with the Vespa (very cool) then the Corvette (even more cool). I admired his confidence, enthusiasm and joy. Loyalty was one of his many godly virtues, so grateful for his loyalty to my parents and myself. Thanks Marcus.
Justin Moran
December 3, 2019
Words cant express how much I loved my father. The outpouring of well wishes and condolences are so heartfelt, meaningful and comforting. Im addicted to reading them all. Thank you to everyone who takes the time write about how they remember Marcus. Keep them coming!
Dick & Irene Harlow
December 3, 2019
Marcus was the best of the best. We were devoted employees of the Aubuchon Hardware Co., in Montpelier, VT. Marcus was a very gentle man and we enjoyed his friendship. He will be missed by all that knew him. May this gentle man rest in peace and in the arms of God. God be with his family.
Lynne Celli
December 3, 2019
Our love and prayers to everyone in the Moran family.
Marcus was a wonderful man and touched so many people.
Fondly, Lynne Celli and family
Jack Deneen
December 3, 2019
Condolences to the entire Moran, Francavilla and Aubuchon clan. M. Marcus Jr., was a remarkable individual. I will always remember the thrilling rides around "The Park" on the back of his Vespar as a little kid in the 60's.
December 3, 2019
Sincere condolences to the family.
Got to know Marcus years ago, in the 1990's. Long out of touch, but never forgot him. An outstanding individual, big heart, nicest guy in the world.
Very sorry for the loss.
Peter Tocci
Leominster
Don Bellar
December 3, 2019
The Heart and soul of the Aubuchon Dist. Ctr. A truly caring person of his employees. Pleasure to work and know Marcus. Rest in Peace with the Lord!
mary parmenter
December 3, 2019
Mr.Moran was a great boss...Sorry for your loss.
Peg Temple
December 3, 2019
Sending my condolences to the entire Moran family.
Joe Gunther
December 3, 2019
A truely nice person. R.I.P.
December 3, 2019
I am honored to have known and worked with Marcus on many boards I
In the area. He is a model citizen always a gentleman and always deeply concerned for his fellow human beings. My and Alberta's deepest condolences and prayers are extended to Marcus's family. Dan and Alberta Asquino
Skip Bourque
December 3, 2019
Kindly accept my heartfelt condolences and the sincere sympathy of our family to all of your family for your loss.
Patricia and Tom Halpin
December 3, 2019
Generous, gracious, kind , Marcus was a gentle man of deep faith. He inspired us all with the depth of his commitment and his ready smile
Our deepest sympathy to the family he loved so dearly
Jamie Floyd
December 2, 2019
Wonderfully generous sincere man. My pleasure to have known him. Condolences to family. Rip Marcus
Gregory Moran
December 2, 2019
Marcus, Courtney and Justin certainly can attest first hand to the outstanding efforts their Dad made on behalf of our greater community! Thanks brother for all you have done for us all.
Brett Nichols
December 2, 2019
There is no doubt that Marcus Moran was brilliant in business as his achievements reflect. But what I will mostly miss and remember about him was his generosity, his nonjudgmental nature about him. He was the type of gentleman who would lend you a hand, where as some others would kick you when youre down. I will forever place this man in a special place, as I know in my heart he put me, I love you Marcus Moran!❤
David Lombard
December 2, 2019
Our sympathy is extended to the entire Moran family during this most difficult time. Our relationship goes back to his entering Nichols College in the fall of 1962 and extending through many years ,culminating in his honorary degree in 2018. He was a giant in his community and will be greatly missed by his many friends, family, and associates.
David Lombard
December 2, 2019
David
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Brandon Funeral Home - Fitchburg305 Wanoosnoc Rd., Fitchburg, MA 01420
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