John Sullivan

John L. Sullivan, 84

HOLDEN - John Lawrence Sullivan, 84, passed away peacefully with his loving wife by his side on Tuesday, July 18, 2017. He was born and raised in South Worcester, a son of the late E. Irene (Kelley) and D. Francis Sullivan.

He graduated from St. Peters High School in 1952 where he was captain of the football team in his senior year. John honorably served his country in the US Army during the Korean Conflict from February of 1953 until February of 1955. He married Pauline Anne Kane on July 24, 1965 at St. Peter's Church. Prior to his 30-year career with the Worcester Housing Authority, he worked at Crompton and Knowles. John was an avid New England sports fan. He was a member of the American Legion at Colony Homes as well as St. Mary's Church both in Holden.

John is survived by his beloved wife of 52 years, Pauline Anne (Kane) Sullivan; his two sisters-in-law, Dorothy Stephens of Brewster and Nancy Durkin of Florida; his brother-in-law, Felix Palermo of Worcester; and his nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his sister, Irene Palermo and his brother, Daniel Sullivan.

Relatives and friends are invited to gather with John's family from 5-7 p.m. on Thursday, July 20, at Miles Funeral Home, 1158 Main Street (Rte. 122A), Holden. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11:30 a.m. on Friday, July 21, at St. Mary's Church, 114 Princeton St., in the Jefferson section of Holden. Burial will be private at the convenience of the family. Flowers may be sent or memorial donations may be made to the Nazareth Home for Boys, 77 Mulberry St., Leicester, MA 01524. To share a memory or offer an online condolence, please visit

www.milesfuneralhome.com