Daily Hampshire Gazette Obituaries https://www.legacy.com/obituaries/gazettenet/ Fri, 15 May 2026 09:22:58 GMT Fri, 15 May 2026 09:22:58 GMT en-US Michal Abramek Easthampton, MA - Michal Abramek, 79, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, May 5, 2026 surrounded by his loving family. He was born in Poland on September 19, 1946, son of the late Jozef and Katarzyna (Paczka) Abramek. He came to the United States in 1978. Michal retired from the University of Massachusetts where he worked as a custodian for 23 years. He previously worked at the J.P. Stevens factory in Easthampton doing maintenance. Michal was a communicant of Our Lady of The Valley Parish. He was very proud of his Polish heritage, keeping many of the Polish traditions alive in his daily life. He loved to spend time with his family and friends. Michal was a devoted husband and loving son, taking care of his mother in her golden years. Michal was married to his loving wife Bronislawa for 47 years. He also leaves behind his niece Kristine Koczajowski (and her husband David Koumpouras) of Easthampton, MA; his nephew Michael Muskus of Shutesbury, MA; his niece Helen Muskus (and her husband James Cocoros and daughter Clio Cocoros) of Brooklyn, NY; and his niece Julie Sehl (and her husband Gene Sehl and son Cooper Sehl) of Chesterfield, MO. A Liturgy of Christian Burial will be held on Wednesday, May 13, 2026 at 11:00am at Our Lady of the Valley Parish in Easthampton, MA. Burial will follow at St. Stanislaus Bishop and Martyr Cemetery in Easthampton, MA. A Calling Hours will precede the Funeral Liturgy from 9:00-10:30am at Graham Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to Our Lady of The Valley Parish. For online condolences, please visit rwgrahamfuneralhome.com https://www.legacy.com/obituaries/gazettenet/obituary.aspx?n=michal-abramek&pid=211383877&fhid=15494 Fri, 08 May 2026 05:00:00 GMT 211383877 Daily Hampshire Gazette Adele Barkowski LEEDS, MA - Adele J Barkowski, of Fairway Village in Leeds, passed away peacefully on Monday, May 4, 2026, at the Fisher Home in Amherst with her husband and best friend by her side. Adele was born in Chicopee, daughter of the late Henry and Bella (Graveline) Paquette. She grew up in Willimansett and was educated at Mt. Carmel and Precious Blood. From the time she was a little girl, she wanted to be a teacher, often coercing her siblings into playing along as her students. She graduated from Our Lady of the Elms with a degree in Education and went on to Westfield State University for her Masters. She had a long career in the Williamsburg Elementary School System. Adele was especially gifted in the subjects of mathematics and the emerging field of computer science. She only retired after her grandchildren were born, in order to spend more time with them. Yet, she could not leave the profession completely. She continued on as a substitute teacher for the Hill Institute in Florence and eventually acted as their assistant treasurer. Not one to be idle, she decided to put her love of numbers to use by working for H & R Block. Through Elder Services, she volunteered as a personal assistant for elderly women, helping with everyday chores such as taking them grocery service and paying bills. Adele was born with a gifted green thumb and would often purchase the most pathetic plants because she "felt sorry for them" and would bring them back to life. Her flower beds were spectacular, drawing the attention of anyone who passed. She voluntarily planted and maintained the gardens at Lilly Library in Florence. Other regular hobbies included tennis, hiking, painting and reading. She loved all animals, especially her collie, Bonnie, and they loved her back. In addition to her parents, Adele was predeceased by a daughter, Lisa Addesso, and a sister, Louise Lebeau. She leaves her beloved husband, Robert "Bob" Szlosek, who she has been inseparable from since 1978; her daughter, Deborah Angelo; two grandchildren, Jake and Jessica Angelo; her siblings, Susanne Paquette, Christine Rogoff and David Paquette, as well as several nieces and nephews. At Adele's request, there are no calling hours, and the family will hold a private service. In lieu of flowers, donations to Adele's memory may be made care of the Lilly Library, 19 Meadow Street, Florence, MA 01062, or Hospice of the Fisher Home, 1165 North Pleasant St, Amherst, MA 01002 https://www.legacy.com/obituaries/gazettenet/obituary.aspx?n=adele-barkowski&pid=211390545&fhid=6739 Sat, 09 May 2026 05:00:00 GMT 211390545 Daily Hampshire Gazette Myra Frances Bias Amherst, MA - Myra Frances Bias passed away on April 13, 2026, at the age of 86. She was born on July 16, 1939, in New Haven, Connecticut, the daughter of Frances and Norman Corey, and was raised in Amherst, Massachusetts. She graduated from Amherst High School and later earned an associate degree from Holyoke Junior College. On July 29, 1961, Myra was baptized as one of Jehovah's Witnesses. Throughout her life, she faithfully served alongside her husband and was associated with four congregations in Massachusetts. She devoted 29 years as a pioneer minister and, most recently, was a member of the Feeding Hills-Agawam Congregation of Jehovah's Witnesses. Myra found deep joy and purpose in studying God's Word. She cherished learning about Jehovah as the Creator, Jesus Christ and the ransom sacrifice, and the good news of God's established heavenly Kingdom to "those rightly disposed to everlasting life." Motivated by her faith, she sought to glorify Jehovah and to share what she learned with others. (Psalms 83:18; Acts 13:48; Matthew 24:14). In her personal life, Myra greatly enjoyed vegetable gardening and preparing meals from her harvest, but her greatest delight came from her flower gardens. She lovingly designed many gardens, each with its own floral theme. She enjoyed studying different types of plants-their interaction, benefits, fragrances, and colors-with violet being her favorite. She was generous in sharing flowers with neighbors and fellow congregation members. On December 21, 1957, she married James Ross Bias of Amherst. Together, they raised five children. Her family remembers her fondly for her love, knowledge, zeal, industriousness, generosity, and sense of humor. She is survived by her children, James Jr., Liana, Michael, Todd, and Joel; one grandchild, Brittani; seven great-grandchildren; as well as other relatives and friends. She was predeceased by her husband, James and sister, Madeline. A memorial service will be held at 12:00 p.m. on Saturday, May 16, at the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah's Witnesses, 17 Pomeroy Lane, Amherst, MA 01002 https://www.legacy.com/obituaries/gazettenet/obituary.aspx?n=myra-frances-bias&pid=211362233&fhid=15510 Fri, 08 May 2026 05:00:00 GMT 211362233 Daily Hampshire Gazette David Bimbane Lenox, MA - David Michael Bimbane, 80, of Lenox. passed away peacefully on May 9 after a long illness, with his wife Maggie, and his grandson Gage by his side. He was at his adored summer home on Lake Ashmere. He and his wife had just celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary on April 30. Dave was born and raised in Northampton, MA. He moved to Lenox in the Berkshires with his young family to continue his career in the automotive industry. He left the dealerships behind and then, as a newly-inspired entrepreneur, he started his own computer business, Computers R Us, which he ran successfully for 28 years before retiring. Dave's caring, kindness, and patience affected all who knew him. His love of telling stories of his life, past and present, will be remembered by those who were fortunate to listen to them. David leaves his sister, Dorothy Wilbur, of Shirley, MA, his daughter Liz Pitts (Rich) of Hatfield, MA, his sons Cory and Josh, both of Pittsfield MA, his grandchildren Garret, Taylor, and Gage, and several nephews and nieces, as well as the many friends who were considered family. He was the best husband, father, and grandfather ever. Services were private at the wishes of the family. To share memories and stories please visit rochefuneralhome.com https://www.legacy.com/obituaries/gazettenet/obituary.aspx?n=david-michael-bimbane&pid=211403888&fhid=20743 Tue, 12 May 2026 05:00:00 GMT 211403888 Daily Hampshire Gazette Eileen Boruchowski Easthampton/Northampton, MA - Eileen Boruchowski, 85, of Northampton, MA, passed away peacefully on April 29, 2026. Born on June 22, 1940, in Easthampton, Eileen was the daughter of the late Thomas Hefferon of Holyoke and Mary (Cantwell) Hefferon of Easthampton. She proudly embraced her Irish heritage and cherished her trips to Ireland. A devoted housewife, Eileen found deep joy in the little things in life-lilacs and all spring flowers in bloom, the sight of bluebirds, and the simple pleasures of home and family. She had a wonderful sense of humor that brightened the days of everyone around her. She loved reminiscing about her travels with her beloved husband, Thaddeus "Ted" A. Boruchowski, whom she married on July 4, 1959, in Easthampton. They shared 40 beautiful years together until Ted's passing in 1999. Eileen took great pride in her large and loving family. She especially delighted in hearing stories about her 11 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren, whose lives brought her endless happiness. She is survived by her children: son Peter Boruchowski and his wife Ann-Mary of Easthampton, MA; daughters Kathleen Huxley and her husband Robert of Easthampton, MA, Mary Myrick and her husband Thomas of Hattiesburg, MS, and Ann Boruchowski of Chesapeake, VA; stepdaughters Gina Tirrell and her husband George of Southampton, MA, and Marilyn Brennan of Rockland, MA; sisters Margaret Gibbons of NY and Ann Lubiak of NJ; and her many cherished grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, Thaddeus A. Boruchowski, and her parents. Graveside services will be held for the family at a future date at St. Brigid's Cemetery in Easthampton. For online condolences, please visit, rwgrahamfuneralhome.com The Graham Funeral Home & Cremation Services in Easthampton has honorably been entrusted with Eileen's care and services. https://www.legacy.com/obituaries/gazettenet/obituary.aspx?n=eileen-boruchowski&pid=211376817&fhid=15494 Fri, 08 May 2026 05:00:00 GMT 211376817 Daily Hampshire Gazette Leonard L. Couchon Easthampton, MA - Leonard Couchon, 95, of Easthampton, passed away at home peacefully on April 27, 2026. He is survived by his three daughters Debbi Burnett of Sacramento, CA, Darlene Tebaldi (Lonnie) of Easthampton, and Lori Osborne (Ted) of Sun City Center, FL, three grandchildren (Alison Beattie, Daniel Carbin and Andrew Osborne), four great grandchildren, his sister Pat Truehart and many nieces and nephews. His loving wife Dorothy (Duda) passed away in 2007 after 50 years of marriage. He is also predeceased by his brother and four sisters along with his partner later in life Carolyn Lamoureux who passed away in 2022. Leonard was born in Northampton, attended Easthampton schools and graduated from Holyoke Trade School before joining the Navy. After serving for four years, he worked at the Philip Hano Company in Springfield, then at the Napa Auto Parts store in Eastampton until he retired in 1995. He was a lifelong communicant at Our Lady of the Valley Church, formerly Notre Dame in Easthampton. "Popeye" was a friend to many, and always willing to lend a hand. He was kind and generous throughout his life. Len's positive attitude and sense of humor never failed. Len could often be found playing pitch at the Pascommuck Club for many years. An avid New England sports fan, he enthusiastically watched all the teams (and coached from his chair). He was proud of his family, and he will be greatly missed by all who knew him. Calling hours will be on Friday, May 15 from 9 – 10:30AM with a prayer service at 10:30AM at the Boucher - O'Brien Funeral Home, 7 Pleasant St, Easthampton, followed by a graveside service at St. Brigid's Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Len's memory to the Cooley Dickinson VNA & Hospice, 30 Locust St, Northampton, MA 01060 https://www.legacy.com/obituaries/gazettenet/obituary.aspx?n=leonard-l-couchon&pid=211384786&fhid=15487 Fri, 08 May 2026 05:00:00 GMT 211384786 Daily Hampshire Gazette Marilyn Francis Brewster, MA - Marilyn Koch Francis, of Brewster, Massachusetts, passed away on May 5th, 2026, in Holyoke, Massachusetts. She was born on July 30, 1939, in Springfield, Massachusetts, to Grant and Mary Koch. Marilyn spent her childhood summers on Cape Cod, where her father worked as a summer camp director. Her family relocated there full-time in the early 1950s. She graduated from Orleans High School in 1957, attended Springfield College for two years, and went on to graduate from Boston University's Sargent School of Health in 1961. That same summer, Marilyn married her lifelong love, Richard Francis, on Cape Cod. Marilyn moved to Easthampton, Massachusetts, where she began her long and meaningful career as a Physical Therapist. She worked with the Northampton Visiting Nurse Association for nearly 40 years. During that time, she also became a deeply valued member of the Williston Northampton School community. Her four decades there were central to her life, where she formed lasting friendships and created a strong, supportive environment for her family. In 1964, Marilyn and Richard purchased a home in Brewster, where they spent summers and vacations for many years before making it their permanent residence upon retirement in 2000. In retirement, they embraced travel, exploring the world together and with so many close friends, often by cruise. Marilyn also gave back to her community by volunteering as an ombudsman for the elderly at several Cape Cod facilities. Marilyn cherished staying connected with friends. She was able to reconnect with many of her friends from Orleans High School Class of 1957. She was also very close with her friends from Camp Wono. They would get together in the summer and reminisce for hours of their childhood in Brewster. Most of all, she cherished the amazing families at Williston. The many families that raised their children at the school meant so much to her. Her happiest moments were often the simplest. Her favorite was just sitting "On the porch" at her Brewster home, admiring her gardens, and watching the birds and wildlife. Cape Cod held a special place in her heart. In recent years, she often asked her sons to take her for drives by the bay, visiting beloved spots such as Linnell Landing, Saints Landing, and Mants Landing-places where she once taught swimming to local children during her college years. She loved the Cape deeply, and it loved her in return. Marilyn was predeceased by her husband, Richard Francis. She is survived by her sons, Jeff and Todd; her daughter-in-law, Mary; her five grandchildren-Brooks, Chase, Grant, Sam, and Kiera; and her five great-grandchildren-Anthony, Cody, Caden, Lucas, and Aurora. Calling hours will be held at Mitchell Funeral Home, 15 Park St. Easthampton, MA on Friday May 15th, 2026 from 4:00 – 6:00 PM. There will then be a gathering at The Delaney House, 3 Country Club Road, Holyoke MA from 6:00-9:00 PM. Donations may be made to the Grant W Koch Scholarship Fund at: http://www.grantwkochfund org/index.php?page=donate. https://www.legacy.com/obituaries/gazettenet/obituary.aspx?n=marilyn-francis&pid=211391824&fhid=15495 Tue, 12 May 2026 05:00:00 GMT 211391824 Daily Hampshire Gazette Sr. Judith O'Connell SSJ Springfield, MA - Sister Judith O'Connell (Martin Elizabeth), (11/4/1938), beloved member of the Sisters of St. Joseph of Springfield, died in Bethany Health Care Center, Framingham, MA on May 6, 2026. Sister was born in Springfield, MA, the daughter of William M. and Elizabeth R. (Fitzgerald) O'Connell. Sister Judith entered the Sisters of St. Joseph of Springfield from Immaculate Conception Parish, West Springfield in 1961. She graduated from Cathedral High School, Springfield. She earned a B.A. degree from the College of Our Lady of the Elms, Chicopee and an M.A. in pastoral counseling from Iona College, New York. She taught at Cathedral High School, Springfield and St. Mary School, Milford, where she also served as Guidance Director for a time. She ministered as Assistant Chaplain at Smith College, Northampton, MA. Sister also worked in Development at Elms College. Sister Judith continued her work as Vicar for Women Religious in the Diocese of Springfield where she served for many years. Sister also served on several Boards of Directors and Diocesan committees. In addition to her Sisters in Community, she is survived by several close cousins. Sister is predeceased by her parents William and Elizabeth O'Connell. All services for Sister Judith will take place in Sacred Heart Church, 395 Chestnut Street, Springfield, MA. Sister's funeral will take place Wednesday, May 13,2026. She will be waked from 10:00 AM with a prayer service at 10:30 AM. The Liturgy of Christian Burial will follow at 11:00 AM. Burial will be in Mont Marie Cemetery, Holyoke, MA. Memorial contributions may be made to the Sisters of St. Joseph, 577 Carew St., Springfield, MA 01104. Arrangements entrusted to the Sampson Family Chapels. https://www.legacy.com/obituaries/gazettenet/obituary.aspx?n=judith-oconnell-martin-elizabeth&pid=211391256&fhid=25294 Sat, 09 May 2026 05:00:00 GMT 211391256 Daily Hampshire Gazette Robert Pinkos Easthampton, MA - Easthampton, MA – Robert (Bob) Pinkos passed away unexpectedly on April 29, 2026 at Baystate Medical Center. He was 83 years old. Bob was born September 25, 1942 in Northampton, MA to Alice (Szary) Pinkos and John Pinkos. He was a 1960 graduate from Easthampton High School where he met his future wife, Diana Ducharme. He attended Wentworth Institute in Boston, Holyoke Community College and graduated from Western New England College with a degree in Mechanical Engineering. Bob was a lifelong resident of Easthampton and loved his community. He volunteered in many capacities. He was a Town Meeting representative, member of the Conservation Commission, Planning Board, founding member of the Pascommuck Conservation Trust serving as President during the Bicentennial Year. He leaves behind his wife of 56 years Diana Pinkos, brother Dan Pinkos (Lisa Dwinell) of Easthampton, Brother-in-law Raymond Ducharme (Tana) of Phoenix, AZ, Sister-in-law Eleanor Racicot of San Marcos, CA. five nephews and one niece. He was a wonderful person and will be missed by his family and many friends. He was a member of Our Lady of the Valley Parish. A Graveside Service was held for Bob on May 8th at St. Stanislaus Cemetery. The Graham Funeral Home & Cremation Services in Easthampton was honorably entrusted with Bob's care and services. For online condolences please visit, rwgrahamfuneralhome.com https://www.legacy.com/obituaries/gazettenet/obituary.aspx?n=robert-pinkos&pid=211403415&fhid=15494 Tue, 12 May 2026 05:00:00 GMT 211403415 Daily Hampshire Gazette Lisa Reznikiewicz Northampton, MA - Lisa Reznikiewicz earthly existence ended on May 6th 2026, after exerting heroic effort in her 54 month long struggle against cancer. Lisa died in the personalized oasis of her Northampton tree top apartment, her home of nearly 20 years. With her loving family and partner by her side, surrounded by flowers and songs of her bird friends she routinely fed from her windowsill. Born March 1st 1968. To Barbara (Baker) and Walter Reznikiewicz. Lisa shared the same birthday as her mother. They also shared a love of music. Lisa played guitar and Banjo, attended the Banjo Institute in Tennessee and traveled with a band to Italy. Lisa was a virtuoso brimming with creative energy, whether it was her incredible chocolate cream pies at Thanksgiving or keeping up the family tradition of coloring Polish Easter eggs called Pisanki, of which she created many beautiful designs that will be treasured - to creating gourmet meals, stained glass, furniture refinishing, drawing, wine consulting, garden detailing... she was unstoppable. Lisa's adventurous spirit would see her drive solo across country as a young woman. She was always up for a good motorcycle ride and anything to do with the ocean or water, recently discovering paddle boarding and taking to it naturally. Lisa's independence of thought and her love for diversity, desire for equity and justice would fuel a lifelong passion for political activism to help all in need, with love and compassion. In the summer, you could find Lisa relaxing at our family cabin at East Otis Reservoir paddle boarding across the water or enjoying time with her partner Greg in Ware Ma. Both places offered the splendid sunsets, and quiet peaceful evenings spent by the outdoor fireplace that they enjoyed. Lisa's empathy and compassion for all people and her adventurous spirit will live on in many hearts. Lisa will be deeply missed by her loving family. She is survived by: Her long time devoted partner Greg Haffmans, her Dad Walter, Mom Barbara, Brother Kurt and his husband Wayne, Aunt Linda, Uncle Bob Baker and wife Louise. Cousins: David Baker and Christopher Baker and wife Melissa. Cousins: Lynn and Paul Lusignan, Kiele Lusignan and Seth Lusignan, predeceased by Fran Swidrak. Close Family friends and dear loved ones: Wanda Lacroix, Elaine Dostie, Mrs. Angela Wright. Dawn Berard and partner Dave, niece Chloe and nephew Nick. A funeral service will be held on Thursday May 14 at 12noon in the Barry J. Farrell Funeral Home, 2049 Northampton Street, Holyoke. Visitation will be held prior to the service from 10:00am to 12:00pm. https://www.legacy.com/obituaries/gazettenet/obituary.aspx?n=lisa-reznikiewicz&pid=211403662&fhid=15518 Tue, 12 May 2026 05:00:00 GMT 211403662 Daily Hampshire Gazette Norma Ritter Hadley, MA - Norma Kendall Ritter, a proud New Englander, devoted nurse, and beloved matriarch, passed away on April 9, 2026. Norma was born in Hartford, CT on January 4, 1931, the daughter of the late Waldo and Marion Kendall. When she was three, her family moved to Hadley, MA to live in the farmhouse her great-grandfather had built. Her family started a successful asparagus farm, and Norma established a legacy in Hadley that would last over 90 years. During that time, she married and raised a family with her sister's family living next door. She was deeply proud of her Yankee ancestry, which traced back to the founding days of Hadley and to the Mayflower itself. Norma graduated from Hopkins Academy in 1948, where she played trombone in the school band and ran the scoreboard for basketball games. She went on to graduate from the Franklin School of Nursing, launching a nursing career that spanned Holyoke Hospital, Cooley Dickinson Hospital, Belchertown State School, Monson State Hospital, and the Visiting Nurse Association. She remained close to her nursing classmates throughout her life, hosting many reunions and get-togethers over the years. Norma was preceded in death by her husband of 65 years, George Ritter, and her sister, Merle Buckhout, and her husband Ted. She is survived by her four sons: Kevin and his wife Ramona of Etowah, NC; Gary and his wife Janet of Hadley; Arlen and his wife Gail of Yuma, AZ; and Dana of Hadley. She is also survived by five grandchildren: Drew Ritter, Grant Ritter, Victoria Ritter, Henry Finch, and Elliot Finch, and six great-grandchildren, Emilia, Kaleb, Hudson, Landon, Jack, and Ellie, as well as many nieces and nephews. Norma loved music and encouraged all her sons to learn an instrument, filling the house with music for decades. She was a devoted fan of UConn women's basketball and the UMass Marching Band. A prolific knitter, she made blankets for everyone in her life, including the pets. She and George were known for putting on legendary Mardi Gras parties. She enjoyed travelling and keeping up with her many relatives around the country and was a lifelong member of the Hockanum Villagers Association and a devoted presence at the Hadley Council on Aging. The family offers heartfelt thanks to her grandniece, Aolani George, whose loving care during Norma's final months was a gift beyond measure. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Hadley Council on Aging. https://www.legacy.com/obituaries/gazettenet/obituary.aspx?n=norma-ritter&pid=211420084&fhid=15203 Thu, 14 May 2026 05:00:00 GMT 211420084 Daily Hampshire Gazette Joseph Stahl Southampton, MA - Joseph Stahl, beloved husband, father, grandfather, engineer, educator, and community leader, passed away on January 11, 2026. Born December 6, 1944, in Ozone Park, New York, he was the son of Wilhelm and Mildred (Schultze) Stahl and was predeceased by his brother, William Stahl, in 2025. He is survived by his wife, Convy Phillips Stahl; his sons, Jameson and Nathan; daughter-in-law Kristen; grandchildren Joshua Joseph Stahl and Kerrigan Stahl; brothers-in-law John (Susan) Phillips and James Phillips, Sister-in-law Carla Katz and many beloved nieces and nephews. Joseph graduated from St. Michaels High School at 16, then earned degrees from the University of Lowell, American International College, and Worcester Polytechnic Institute. His career spanned Sikorsky Aircraft, Vinalhaven High School, JP Stevens, Pro Corporation, and Spalding Sports Worldwide, where he helped lead innovative manufacturing advances and earned several patents. Later, he served as Professor of Engineering at Holyoke Community College and helped create a robotics program for youth. Joseph also devoted decades to public service in Southampton and Kiwanis International. He will be remembered for his ingenuity, generosity, mentorship, and deep devotion to family and community. The Graham Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 18 Adams Street, Easthampton have been entrusted with his service arrangements. https://www.legacy.com/obituaries/gazettenet/obituary.aspx?n=joseph-stahl&pid=211387044&fhid=15494 Sat, 09 May 2026 05:00:00 GMT 211387044 Daily Hampshire Gazette