Donald H. Twohig

TWOHIG, Donald H. Donald H. Twohig, 85, a lifelong resident of East Longmeadow, MA died peacefully Thursday evening (January 20, 2005) after a long illness. He was born in East Longmeadow, the son of the late Thomas and Sarah (Hughes) Twohig and was educated in the East Longmeadow and Springfield School Systems. Donald graduated from the High School of Commerce and entered the United Stated Army during World War II. He served with Headquarters Company Engineer Group 1664th SU and was the recipient of several awards and citations. Mr. Twohig earned his Honorable Discharge on December 18, 1944 achieving the rank of Sergeant. Upon his discharge from active service he joined Collins Electric Company of Chicopee, MA where he was employed for over 60 years. Donald retired at age 82, as Vice President, only after his failing health slowed him. He was a member of the East Longmeadow American Legion, Knights of Columbus, a lifelong parishioner and usher at St. Michael's Church, East Longmeadow, and a Fellow Emeritus of the Academy of Electrical Contractors of the National Electrical Contractors Association. Donald deeply loved to research Irish history and heritage, cherished his family trips to Ireland, and relished his family Fourth of July celebrations. He was a voracious reader and lifelong learner, and truly a member of the "Greatest Generation". Despite debilitating illness for over three years, Donald maintained his quiet demeanor, bright smile, and deep concern for the welfare of his family, friends, and caregivers at the Hospital of St. Raphael in New Haven, Gaylord Hospital in Wallingford and Jewish Geriatric Services in Longmeadow, MA. He considered his Gaylord caregivers as his second family. Donald is survived by his loving wife of 50 years Mary (Kilcoyne) Twohig and leaves his three sons, Brian H. Twohig of Shelton, Kevin J. Twohig of Madison and Michael T. Twohig of Avon; as well as his "three wonderful daughters-in-law, Elizabeth, Sherry and Marybeth. Bringing constant joy and happiness to his life were his ten grandchildren, Erin and Jennifer of Shelton, Katie, Laura and Annie of Madison, and Meghan, Kelly, Bridget, Michael and Deirdre of Avon; his devoted sister, Marion Connor of East Longmeadow; a nephew, Donald Connor of Phoenix, AZ; as well as numerous loving cousins. His funeral will be held Tuesday at 8:15 a.m. from Sampson's Chapel of the Acres, 21 Tinkham Rd, Springfield, MA followed by a Liturgy of Christian Burial at 10 a.m. in St. Michael's Church, East Longmeadow, MA, with Rites of Committal to follow in St. Michael's Cemetery, Boston Rd., Springfield. Calling hours at the funeral home will be Monday afternoon and evening from 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. and in lieu of flowers, donations in his memory may be directed to St. Michael's Church, 128 Maple St., East Longmeadow, MA 01028 or Gaylord Hospital, Gaylord Farms Rd., Wallingford, CT 06492 or St. Raphael's Foundation, 1450 Chapel St., New Haven, CT 06511.