Celia R. Letendre

Celia Ruth (Johnson) Letendre, 98, of Gardner, died peacefully Friday, May 31, 2024, in Heywood Hospital, Gardner, after a period of declining health with her family by her side. 

Born in Gardner on February 7, 1926, she was the daughter of the late Robert L. and Agnes V. (Nelson) Johnson. She graduated from Gardner High School with the Class of 1944. Celia was employed by Gardner Screw Co. for several years before her retirement in 1984. She was previously employed by A&P Christy & Thompson and JC Penney.  

Celia was an active congregant of Immanuel Lutheran Church of Gardner, where she was the Sunday School Superintendent, a member of its choir and past president of the Lutheran Church Women Altar Guild of Covenant. She later was a member of the Faith Lutheran Church of Gardner. Celia was dedicated to her faith and frequently read scripture. She loved attending Silver Sneaker classes, working on arts and crafts, sewing, and solving puzzle books. 

Celia is survived by her daughter, Karen R. Letendre of Hingham; a son, Forrest N. Letendre and his wife Kathy of Acworth, GA; two grandchildren, Todd Letendre and his wife Marnia of Acworth, GA, and Josh Letendre and his wife Rachel of Acworth, GA; two great-grandchildren, Gavin and Sophia Letendre; several nieces, nephews, and cousins. 

She was predeceased by her husband of 39 years, Forrest D. Letendre, who died in 1986, and her sister, Betty Wiinikainen. 

A Calling Hour will be held Tuesday, June 11, 2024, from 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m. in the Faith Lutheran Church, 627 Green Street, Gardner, MA

Funeral Services will be held Tuesday, June 11, 2024, at 1:00 p.m. in the church. Burial will follow at Wildwood Cemetery, West Street, Gardner, MA. 

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Faith Lutheran Church, 627 Green Street, Gardner, MA 01440. Please reference in memory of Celia R. Letendre.