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BORN
1952
DIED
2016
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Joan Cole Obituary
Clinton - Joan H. (Golas) Cole, 64, passed away peacefully surrounded by family and close friends on Saturday, May 21, 2016 at UMass Medical Center in Worcester. She is survived by her son Dennis J. Cole of North Carolina, her twin sister, Janet Golas-Shah & husband Kirit Shah of Boylston; and sister, Jeannie M. Golas of Ipswich; four nephews, Timothy Walcott, Ian Riopel, Cody Riopel, and Jake Riopel, great-nieces & nephew.
Joan was born in Clinton to the late Edward & Helen (Zuber) Golas. She was a graduate of the Clinton High School, Class of 1970, obtained her Associate's degree from Becker Junior College, Bachelor's degree in Social Work from Assumption College, and Master's degree in Counseling Psychology from Anna Maria College. She graduated from the Carroll Center for the Blind and completed training with the Seeing Eye Program, from where she was paired with her canine companion service dogs. Joan studied at the Bancroft School of Massage Therapy, obtained her license as a massage therapist, and successfully owned and operated her own business for many years. In addition, Joan worked as a massage therapist for Catholic Charities, and as a dedicated social worker for the Massachusetts Commission for the Blind. After losing her eyesight as a young adult, she became a staunch advocate for disabled young women as a Mentor for YWCA. Joan held membership with the MA Massage Therapy Association and was active with Women Outdoors. She loved music, attending concerts, and enjoyed the hobbies of furniture restoration, cross country skiing, and tandem bike riding. She will be remembered lovingly by her family, friends, and all who had the pleasure to have known her. Funeral services are to be held on Wednesday, May 25, 2016 from the Philbin-Comeau Funeral Home, 176 Water St., Clinton, with a Mass of Christian Burial to be celebrated at 10AM in St. John the Evangelist Church, 80 Union St., Clinton. Burial will follow in St. John's Cemetery, Lancaster. Calling hours will be held in the funeral home on Tuesday, May 24, 2016 from 5 until 7PM. Memorial contributions may be made in memory of Joan Cole to Worcester Animal Rescue League, 139 Holden St., Worcester, MA 01606. worcesterarl.org/donate/ Online condolences may be placed at
www.philbincomeaufh.com
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Memories and Condolences
for Joan Cole
May 26, 2016
Was so sorry to hear about Joan. We grew up on the same street as Joan and were childhood friends.
Mania and Chistine.
Phyllis Weatherbee
May 24, 2016
God Bless you Joanie and rest in peace. Linda Robinson sister.
May 24, 2016
Janet, My heartfelt sympathy to you and yours. The memories of the love and compassion you shared with Joni will be with you always. Take heart in knowing that love. Your strength will see you through. You're in my thoughts and prayers. Susan
Marilyn Capelle
May 23, 2016
God Bless Joan. Deepest sympathies to the family.
Suzanne Maher
May 23, 2016
Hi Janet - I'm so sorry to hear about Joni's passing. You were the best sister anyone could ever wish for. I know that you will get through this with the wonderful friends you have... Love - Suzanne
Nancy Coakley Witek
May 23, 2016
My thoughts and prayers go out to the family,
may Joan rest in peace.
Susan Peterson
May 22, 2016
I was just talking about you and your sister today when I got the call of your passing. I believe you must of come by on your way "home" to say good bye. Peace Susan
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