Esther González

Esther (Kangas) Gonzalez, 78, of Charlton, formerly of Worcester, passed away peacefully at her home, surrounded by her loving family, on Tuesday, August 19, 2025. Her beloved husband of 53 years, José Gonzalez, whom she married in 1966, predeceased her on November 24, 2019.

She was born in Gardner, Massachusetts, on August 27, 1946,daughter of the late Waldemar and Dorothy (Ronholm) Kangas and was raised on a farm in Hubbardston. Esther was educated in Gardner schools and was a graduate of Athol High School, Class of 1965.

A devoted homemaker, Esther dedicated her life to raising her family with love and care. She enjoyed gardening, painting, and birdwatching, with a special fondness for cardinals. She was also a faithful member of Hillcrest Church, where her commitment to her faith was evident throughout her life.

She is survived by her four devoted daughters: April Aulick and her husband Byron of West Brookfield, Aida Clemmey and her husband Charles of Southbridge, Dorothy Gonzalez and her partner Eric Schaefer of Charlton, and Evangelina Gonzalez-Dufresne and her husband Joseph of Worcester. She also leaves her brother, Gary Kangas and his wife Donna of Hubbardston; nine cherished grandchildren, Joseph, Brett, Francis, Jeremy, Lillian, Charles Jr., Anthony, Zachary, and Zoey; thirteen great-grandchildren; as well as many nieces and nephews.

In addition to her husband and parents, Esther was predeceased by two brothers, George and Larry Kangas, and her sister, Nancy Kangas.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend calling hours on Tuesday, August 26, from 10:00 to 11:30 a.m. in the MERCADANTE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL, 370 Plantation Street, Worcester. A funeral service will followat 11:30 a.m. in the funeral home. Interment will take place at Hope Cemetery, Worcester, where Esther will be laid to rest beside her beloved husband.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Esther’s name to the Charlton Senior Center or The Sherry’s House.