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Grace Macdonald Obituary

Grace Olga (Charlton) Macdonald, 83, loving wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother, passed away at her home with her family by her side on Wednesday, October 26, 2011, after a brave struggle with cancer. Gracie was born in Boston and raised in Roslindale, the daughter of John and Hulda (Matson) Charlton and resided in Shrewsbury for the last 35 years.

She is survived and will be greatly missed by her husband of 58 years, Alexander W. Macdonald; three children, Gary Macdonald and wife Diane of Hyannis, Kimberly Bollus and husband Jack of Holden and Deborah Macdonald of Shrewsbury; her beloved grandchildren, Dina, Lauren, Derrek, Briana and John; great-grandchildren, Kyle and Amani; her sister, Ethel Jennings of York, ME and several nieces and nephews. Previously deceased are her brothers, Bobby Charlton and Billy Charlton.

Gracie's life revolved entirely around her family, from trips to Nova Scotia to spending time with relatives, yearly ski trips that started 36 years ago with a constantly expanding family, summers at the beach, to countless family cookouts and holiday dinners. After retiring from a clerical position at Shrewsbury Town Hall, she spent immeasurable hours with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren with whom have the fondest of memories of her.

She was always there for you when you needed a listening ear, loving hug, gentle touch, or something baked warm from the oven. To say she was a beautiful person doesn't even touch the surface. "Life is not measured by the number of breaths we take, but by the moments that take our breath away" (author unknown). She was the one who took our breath away.

She was a member of the First Congregational Church of Shrewsbury for 37 years.

The family would like to extend a sincere thank you to UMass Memorial Home Health & Hospice for their support.

A private Memorial Service in remembrance of Gracie's Life will be held in the Miles Funeral Home, 1158 Main St., Holden. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the Pancreatic Cancer Research Fund, c/o UMass Memorial Development Office, 333 South St., Shrewsbury, MA 01545. To share a memory or offer a condolence visit:

www.milesfuneralhome.com

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

Published by Worcester Telegram & Gazette from Oct. 27 to Oct. 28, 2011.

Memories and Condolences
for Grace Macdonald

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Christina Manos

November 2, 2011

My condolences to the whole family on your loss. I know the last few months have been hard for you all. May you take comfort in your memories and in knowing that she is at peace and no longer in pain. She was a lovely woman. With deepest sympathy...

Debbie Macdonald

November 2, 2011

Thank you mom for always being there for me. I will cherish all the wonderful memories, your warmth and your love that you showed me everyday.Until we are all together again, I will miss you and love you everyday of my life. Heaven has gained an amazing angel named Grace. Stay close and watch over us. Love you.

Bri Bollus

October 31, 2011

the most amazing grandmother ever, who will be missed more than anything.

Paul & Kathy Fournier

October 31, 2011

To The MacDonald Family: We were sorry to hear about your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. With Heartfelt Sympathy, The Fournier Family and Rosalyn Consiglio (Your neighbors)

Donald Smith

October 28, 2011

Uncle AL, our thoughts and prayers are with you and the whole family. Grace was such a wonderful person and we are so sorry for your loss. Love Donald, Karen and Emily(Smith).

October 28, 2011

Al, Gary, Diane, Kim, Jack, Debbie & Families You all have great memories, Grace was a wonderful person. Our thoughts & prayers are with you all at this time.
Love from Debbie & Leonard (Charlottetown, PEI)

Rick Phillips

October 28, 2011

Debbie, our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

paula cassella

October 27, 2011

Dear Kim,
The obituary said's it all! She was a wonderful person.

Love,
Aunt Paula

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