Fernande G. Beland

LEOMINSTER- Fernande G. Beland, 75, died Saturday morning, Dec. 24 at Life Care Center in Leominster after a long illness. She was a devoted and loving mother who devoted her life to faith and service to others. She was born Oct. 2, 1941 in New-Brunswick, Canada, the daughter of Benoit and Rachel (Cormier) LeBlanc. She resided in Leominster her entire life after moving to the area from Canada at age 16. She was resilient and overcame many challenges that only made her stronger. Fern lost her parents at young age and lived in a Convent in Canada with her four siblings until moving to Massachusetts in her mid teens. She attended night school to learn typewriting and worked for several years at the former H. Margolin Co. in Fitchburg while residing in the Cleghorn neighborhood. She was a devoted parishioner and member of St. Cecilia's Parish in Leominster, where she avidly volunteered her time and faith to supporting the church. In addition, she worked for Catholic Charities of Worcester County for over a decade, and took immense pride in this. Her faith in God and support for the Catholic Church was unwavering and a pillar in her life. Mrs. Beland was an active community member, and thoroughly enjoyed attending sporting events for her children. She enjoyed trips to the beach, going to the casino, Elvis Presley, and caring for animals. She was predeceased by her husband of over 40 years, Francis R. Beland, who she raised three children with. She is survived by her two daughters, Karen Woodward of Leominster and Cathy Beland of Maine, and a son, Daniel Beland of Southborough. She also leaves four grandchildren, Amanda Woodward, Noah Woodward, Chloe Beland and Nathaniel Beland and daughter-in-law and son-in-law, Kim (Owsiak) Beland and William Woodward. In addition she leaves several siblings in Canada, and many nieces, nephews and cousins. The funeral will be held Thursday, December 29, from Simard Funeral Home, 14 Walker St., Leominster with a mass at 10:00 A.M. in St. Cecilia's Church, 180 Mechanic St., Leominster. Burial will follow in St. Cecilia’s Cemetery in Leominster. Calling hours are Wednesday, Dec. 28, from 5:00 to 7:00 P.M. in the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to: Life Care Center of Leominster 370 West Street Leominster, MA 01453