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BORN

1959

DIED

2017

FUNERAL HOME

Tancrell-Jackman Funeral Home - Uxbridge

35 Snowling Rd.

Uxbridge, Massachusetts

Gary Beauchamp Obituary

Gary Raymond Beauchamp, 57

N. Grafton - N. Grafton – Gary Raymond Beauchamp, 57, formerly of Uxbridge, Northbridge, and "The World" passed away on Thurs. March 2, 2017 at the Rose Monahan Hospice House in Worcester. Gary's boundless energy and passion for life extended to many fields. He died after a protracted but spirited bout with health issues during which he lived fully with grace, style, and optimistic determination. He lived in a world of euphemisms. Gary was the youngest adopted son of the late Walter "Butch" and Irene (Duvernay) Beauchamp and was to turn 58. He grew up in the village of Linwood, on the border of the towns of Northbridge and Uxbridge. Gary would like to apologize for any indiscretions he may have been involved in during his years. He claimed to never have worked a day in his life. His "career", was something between a butterfly and a lap dog.

His education began with the Sisters of the Presentation of Mary at the church the Good Shepherd in Linwood. It was with the good Sisters that he learned how "not to lose recess, throughout his life". After the school closed, he entered the Uxbridge school system where he was very involved. He served as a class officer, student council officer, and representative to the Uxbridge school committee on behalf of the student body.

While not actually athletic, he did manage a number of teams during his years at UHS allowing him to receive numerous varsity letters. As a sophomore, he was awarded the un-sung hero award. Gary's love of all things historical began at a very early age. He became a member of the Uxbridge Historical Society at age 13. He was a member of the Bi-Centennial committee, along with the 250th anniversary of the town of Uxbridge.

At the age of 15, he began the transformation of what is now known as Capron Park in Uxbridge center, acting as a one-person committee. Thirteen years later, he was present when the park was officially dedicated by the Massachusetts Governor Edward King.

As his time at UHS came to a close, he became the first male in Massachusetts history to be awarded the DAR Good citizen Award (Wheelock Chapter – Uxbridge). Upon graduation, his classmates chose Gary as having done the most to enhance daily life for the student body.

Gary's love of history of the birth of the Industrial Revolution in the Blackstone Valley brought on his years of working for the Scotts Mill complex. The Scotts Mill, in the Elmdale section of Uxbridge, is the 2nd oldest woolen mill site in America. He continued his education at Wilbraham & Monson Academy, Wilbraham, MA. While at the Academy, he was elected class president and student senate president. Upon graduation, he was awarded the Pieria Prize by the faculty. Over the many years since his departure from Wilbraham, he was known as the honorary trustee, always on hand to help.

Gary matriculated to Framingham Teachers College with emphasis in political and historical studies. The late FTC president, D. Justin MacCarthy, stated that Gary left a mark at the college that would be a standard for years to come. With his interest in the hospitality industry taking hold, he further received training in hotel/travel management from Southern college, Winter Park, FL. While at FTC, Gary was awarded for the best collegiate poem in America.

Throughout his life, Gary was a champion of progressive political causes. He was a member of the Democrat, libertarian, and republican national committees. Gary served as a legislative aide, on Capital Hill, to the late United State senator, Edward Brook (R-Massachusetts). On Beacon Hill, he served as a Legislative Aide to Senator Richard Moore. At the age of 19, Gary became the youngest elected selectman in Massachusetts's history. He defeated 12-year incumbent, Michael Fean, who the Worcester Telegram & Gazette called the most powerful man in Northbridge history.

After an 8year quest, Gary was elected to the Board of Library Trustees, of the Grafton Public Library. Gary was instrumental in the formation of the Grafton Public Library Capitol Campaign, along with overseeing the 90th anniversary celebration of the GPL, planned for June, 2017. While public service played a role in his life, it is through the hospitality industry that he made his greatest impact. Over a career of 30+ years, he learned how to affect people's lives.

Gary began a nearly 25-year association with the Bowden Family (formerly of Holden). He served as manager of the former Howard Johnson's hotel complex at College Sq., Worcester and at the Norwood Country Club Resort Hotel. Gary also served as the first general manager of the former landlord Ben's Colonial Tavern restaurant in Sterling, MA, assisting the Higgins family, the late Maureen & Dick Higgins, along with the late Tina Sullivan Higgins.

When the Bowden family ventured north, he joined them as managing director of the historic Chebeague Island Inn. The inn is located on Great Chebeague Island, Casco Bay, Maine. During his 16year association with the 1925 hotel, he assisted nearly 400 weddings. Many of the brides and grooms still had communication with him these many years later.

In 1998, during his years with the Chebeague Island Inn, a young girl from Great Chebeague Island entered a national contest sponsored by the American Red Cross. The topic, Who Has The Biggest Heart. She wrote 150 words about Gary Beauchamp and won the national contest.

When the Bowden family decided to sell the Chebeague Inn, Gary returned to central MA and assisted with the management at Maxwell Silverman's Toolhouse and Club Maxines, Lincoln Square, Worcester. One of Gary's strongest traits was loyalty; too bad that was not the same with all he came in contact with.

His generosity of spirit will be missed by the many. He contributed in myriad ways to the benefit of individuals and the community at large. He was a former member of the Northbridge Historical Commission and president of the Friends of Northbridge Elders.

Gary was a charter member of the Blackstone River Valley Historic corridor Association. He was also a charter member of the Academy of Motion Pictures & Sciences Museum. Gary was a founding member of the World War II Memorial, the Holocaust Museum and the National Woman's History Museum. He was a member of the Hemlock Society – Death With Dignity.

Gary was a member of the ephemera Society of America and the Universal Autograph Club. In 2000, Gary was accepted as a life member of Who's Who in America. Gary enjoyed a lively discussion to revisit history, regain knowledge and renew interest in who and what shaped our lives.

His friends will remember his biting wit and sarcasm. Gary was an activist in support of causes towards which he was passionately devoted. He enjoyed the mission of the homeless and AIDS patients throughout the world, including his 10+ year association with Life House of Central MA. He was a longtime associate of the Damien Ministries-Washington, DC. Gary was unique in that no matter what the situation, he was completely at ease with who he was. He lived his life happily from moment to moment and had a special way of connecting with everyone around him.

Gary was not a stereotype, that is not who he was. He had a special way with children, often entertaining them at social events throughout his life. He loved dogs and they loved him back, as if he had some special wavelength that reached them. He was an inveterate reader and often had a book, newspaper, or magazine in hand. He was always reading at least 2 books of non-fiction, on varied topics across all disciplines and was without equal as a conversationalist. As a partygoer and general bon vivant, Gary was known for his astute opinions, often making fun of himself.

Throughout his life, Gary was a model of the rewards of the frugality he'd learned from his adopted parents, and their growing up years during the depression. He derived his greatest satisfactions from creativity along with his surprising sense of humor.

He is survived by his sister Darlene of Holyoke, brother Kevin on Norfolk, a niece Nikki Mauro and her husband Atty. Vincent Mauro of New Haven, CT., special aunt Lorraine Dufault of Linwood, his aunt Doris Beauchamp of Grafton and his father's 2nd wife Nancy Phipps Beauchamp and her daughter Katherine Beauchamp Garofoli and his nephew Walter Garofoli, all of Cape Cod and numerous cousins. Gary also is survived by C. Bradley Cristy, Mary Tulloch, John Gleason, Stephen Hart, Barry Ludden, Allan Provost, "Uncle" Franklin Sawyer Cushman, and his "Academy Family", along with countless friends dedicated and loyal, that he trusted.

He was predeceased by a dear friend J. Gregory Oliver of Portland, ME in 1995. He leaves Greg's daughter Cherylann Rhodes and her husband Bryan along with their children Wyatt, Logan, and Allica of Waldoboro, ME.

A charismatic man, Gary had friends from all ethnicities and economic backgrounds, from the wealthy to the homeless. He was loved by all and will be greatly missed. Gary's family wishes his friends to remember his tender kindness. We rejoice in the beauty and majesty of his passing, as he walks to a higher and deeper truth. While a gift to anatomical science had been planned, circumstances didn't' allow.

In compliance with his wishes, there will be no funeral or church services. A musical service of Tribute and reflection will be planned. While Gary's life would be considered full by any measure, at the time of his death, he considered his life work far from complete. May his passing inspire you to pick up where he left off.

To leave a condolence message for the family, please visit www.jackmanfuneralhomes.com

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Worcester Telegram & Gazette from Mar. 10 to Mar. 11, 2017.

Memories and Condolences
for Gary Beauchamp

Sponsored by Tancrell-Jackman Funeral Home - Uxbridge.

Not sure what to say?





jenny franklin

March 3, 2024

still miss you my friend, reunions are just not the same without you. god bless.

Jenny Franklin

March 6, 2023

I still miss you everyday Gary. W&M class reunions have never been the same without you.

Jenny Franklin

March 2, 2020

3 years already. You are truly missed.

Jenny Franklin

March 2, 2019

Still so very missed. Our 40th reunion was definitely not a Gary reunion. Love you always.

Bill Cable

January 6, 2018

Ours was one of the almost 400 weddings that Gary watched over during his time at the Chebeague Island Inn. This was the first year since we met him in 1991 that we did not receive his Holiday Card. I searched online fearing the worst and found this. Gary was one of a kind and a beautiful human being. I am a better person having known him. Thanks for your friendship, Gary.

Jeffrey Soper

May 21, 2017

I patrolled Chebeague Island for nearly 20 years for the Town of Cumberland.

I met Gary his first year that he came to the Island. The van he was operating for the Hotel broke down. I picked up his passengers and took them to the Hotel, and went back and got the van running for Gary. I will always remember Gary in my heart. I retired from the Town in 2005.

May 21, 2017

Celebrating a life well lived. We will cherish the memories forever.

Jonathan KomLosy

April 8, 2017

Very much enjoyed all the great summers on Chebeague Island working with the Bowdoin Family and Gary. The long weekend night never failed to end without Gary's fresh baked chocolate chip cookies and pans of " Warm Vermont NUTS! " Gary made each and every wedding a special island event, and brought a great deal of joy, mirth, mischief and laughter to the endless summers of Chebeague. Thank you Gary!! RIP!!

Nancy (Putnam) Vachon

March 30, 2017

Gary was truly one of a kind and a very special person to me he became like family to so many of the employees at the Chebeague Island Inn. You could always count on him for a wisecrack and solid advice. One wedding at the Inn he had a particularly demanding bridezilla. She threw a tantrum and started crying because the salad dressing wasn't right next to the salad. The staff and guests froze in horror but Gary's quick comeback was "it's a honeymoon salad, dressing is optional!" He always had the best comebacks. My daughter was the person who wrote the essay about Gary and we were both so touched that it was included in his obit. He certainly did have a big heart and loved and was loved by so many.
I wish I had known his time was getting near I would have loved to see him again and tell him how much he meant to me. I'll miss his sweet caring cards and words of wisdom!
Nancy

Ruthie Putnam

March 25, 2017

I am so sad to hear of Gary's passing. I haven't seen him in a great many years, since the Bowdens sold the Inn on Chebeague, but I certainly have never forgotten him. I knew Gary since I was a young girl & had the pleasure of working with him from age 12-20. He had the most beautiful personality and TRULY the biggest heart of anyone I ever met, as I am the one who once wrote that contest winning essay about Gary for the Red Cross titled "Who has the Biggest Heart?" I would love to share it on here if I can find a copy. Anyway, my deepest heartfelt condolences to the Beauchamp family. I'm sure I speak for many as I say that Gary will be deeply missed.

Kendra McKinnon

March 25, 2017

Many years ago when Gary was managing the Chebeague Inn my elderly grandmother had a meal there and requested carrots as her vegetable. Gary stopped by her table to inquire if she was enjoying her food. As only an older grandmother could do, she chastised him because her carrots were not cooked enough. She wanted them soft, not el dente! They teased each other about carrots for years after that. But Gary got the last word in when she passed at the age of 95 and he sent the family the most beautiful floral basket which was set with loving affection in the church vestibule, so all could admire the perfect bunch of carrots nestled among the flowers.

Cynthia Chamberlin

March 23, 2017

Gary was a wonderful friend to my in laws Nancy and Woody Chamberlin. They loved him like a son. One of Nancy's favorite tales is of Gary visiting her while in assisted care and pushing her wheelchair off hospital grounds, into the woods so they could sneak a smoke. She would giggle like a girl recalling their antics. After her passing Gary sent Woody (90 yrs old) an antique book titled "How to pick up women"!! Gary made the world a happier place and he will be missed.

Gary with me and Carl Tyburski in 2014

Edwin Conway

March 20, 2017

Many great memories of Gary. He always made me laugh and I'll never forgot our late night after party the Wilbraham Motel when I was in for the W&M reunions. I will miss his cards and notes each year talking about our class and getting folks to come to the reunions. My sincere condolences go out to his family. RIP Gary.

Wil Stebbins

March 13, 2017

I will remember you always with smiles and laughter. I am a better man for having had you as a friend. Wil Stebbins, W&M '78

March 13, 2017

Gary (aka Whiskey) was loved by a huge diversity of people of all ages. Being able to hang out with Whiskey at each WMA reunion, was always a high light for me. Reading his letters (he wouldn't use email) was always sincere, sarcastic and entertaining. I love you Whiskey!

Jenny Franklin

March 13, 2017

Gary we all loved you. You were the binder to our book that kept the class of 78 together for all these yrs. Your school spirit was always amazing. Fly high and free my friend. See you soon. Love jenny gleason 78'

Suzie Tavano

March 13, 2017

I have so many good memories of Gary that are unforgettable. He always made me laugh, he helped me so many times with problems and always with a big smile. I will miss his cards and notes at each holiday. My sincere condolences go out to his family and good friends. And may he finally be at peace.

Suzie Tavano

March 13, 2017

There was so much I didn't know about Gary and wished that we talked more about our personal lives. We had many good times and laughs together;he was always there to make everyone feel special. I will miss his cards and pray that he is finally at peace. My sincere condolences to his family and good friends.

DAVID GERVAIS

March 12, 2017

TO GARY'S FAMILY MY SYMPATHY IS EXTENDED TO YOU .GARY AND I WERE BEST FRIENDS IN HIGH SCHOOL AND HAD MANY GOOD TIMES, ALTHOUGH WE WERE POLITICAL RIVALS THROUGHOUT HIGH SCHOOL. WE DID MUCH CAMPAIGNING TOGETHER WORKING ON MANY LOCAL ELECTIONS INCLUDING STATE REP DICK MOORE, SELECTMEN TOM BENTLY
TIM RICE AND JOE PAQUETTE, GARY AND I BOTH HOLD THE RECORDS IN UXBRIDGE AND NORTHBRIDGE FOR THE YOUNGEST ELECTED OFFICIAL. WE FOUGHT FOR MANY POLICTICAL BATTLES IN UXBRIDGE, AND STARTED ATTENDING TOWN MEETINGS WHEN WE WERE IN
8 TH GRADE LEARNING A LOT ABOUT ROBERT'S
RULE OF ORDER FROM ELTON JONES TOWN MODERATOR IN UXBRIDGE BACK IN THE MID 70"S. THINGS WILL NEVER BE THE SAME WITHOUT GARY'S WIT. I WILL MISS HIM AS
MANY ORGANIZATIONS HE WAS INVOLVED IN WILL MISS HIM. GARY GOD BLESS YOU MAY YOU REST IN PEACE AND MAY WE MEET AGAIN SOMEDAY.

Tootsie

March 11, 2017

We had many laughs over the years. You were one of a kind. My thoughts and prayers go out to your family. RIP my friend.

a mother

March 11, 2017

WOW what an amazing human being.....I am sorry that I never knew him.....may he rest in peace

may your memory be eternal

March 11, 2017

Nancy Stover

March 11, 2017

I didn't know Gary, but if I could leave this earth one/tenth the person he was, I'd feel accomplished. God bless Gary for the ultimate life well lived!

Caring Stranger

March 10, 2017

That was one of the most beautiful tributes I have ever read. I am sorry for your great loss.

Don Frabotta

March 10, 2017

My condolences to Darlene and Nikki and Kevin and Lorraine and the rest of the family and Gary's large family of friends. He was a very special soul who touched and taught so many in a short time and made a lifelong impression on all who crossed his path on this part of his journey. He will be greatly missed, but he will be talked about for a long time. His spirit will come up and tap you on the shoulder when you least think about it.

Susanna Stachura

March 9, 2017

Godspeed... my magnificent friend ! The Earth will miss having you here to awaken the Spring,
but heaven holds a brighter light because of your love. You were Kind to everyone, Man and Beast alike. My thoughts and prayers are with your family . You were much loved by all who crossed your path.

Showing 1 - 26 of 26 results

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