Harriet E. Gamache

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Harriet Elizabeth (Thiem) Gamache, 87, of Willimantic, CT. Harriet passed away on January 27, 2026 after a long illness. She was born June 29, 1938, grew up in Coventry and was a graduate of Windham High. She was the daughter of Fredrick and Elsie (Brown) Thiem.

She married the love of her life Francois J. Gamache who she met at the roller skating rink in Coventry and they were happily married for 51 years until his passing in June 2008. Together they had two daughters, Joan and Jacqueline (“Jackie” who passed away in 2024).

She worked at The Savings Institute in Willimantic for over 30 years where she made many life long friends. The friendships continued over many lunch and dinner dates. One special “pally”, Linda, was always there to split a beer and make her smile.

Harriet loved to travel and her favorite destination was the beach. The family spent many summers at Misquamicut Beach in Rhode Island. She also enjoyed family gatherings at the pool and was an avid reader and enjoyed her daily crosswords. And if anyone knew Harriet they knew she loved penguins.

She is survived by her oldest daughter Joan (John) Maclure, her grandkids Katherine “Katie” (Daniel) Prosperie and Kenneth “Kenny” (Sydney) Maclure and her great grandkids Margaret, Asher and Waylan Prosperie and Caroline and Oliver Maclure. She is also survived by her close friend and caregiver Kelly Stewart and their four legged fur child Fletcher the Yorkie, plus many nieces and nephews.

There will be no services per Harriet's request.

Donations in honor of Harriet can be sent to Mystic Aquarium, 55 Coogan Boulevard, Mystic, Connecticut 06355. Please be sure to include a note saying in memory of Harriet Gamache