Barbara (Bennett) Pralinsky

ATHOL- Barbara (Bennett) Pralinsky, 79, of Athol, died Saturday, March 17, after a short illness. Barbara was born February 8, 1939, in Athol, daughter of the late Alfred and Anna (Bendonis) Bennett. She was a graduate of Athol High School. Barbara worked for L. S. Starrett Company for many years before her retirement. Barbara was predeceased by her mother Anna and her mother's partner, Frank Posk and her father Alfred Bennett. She leaves her husband of 55 years, Paul Pralinsky; one son, Scott Pralinsky of Orange; two daughters, Paula Pralinsky and her husband, Bert Sawicki of Royalston, and Mary Keyser and her husband, Mike of Reno, NV; two grandchildren, Rhea and Stashu Sawicki; her son in law, Darren Shinn of Athol; her California family John Emery, his wife Hai Nhu Tran and their children Evelyn and Beatrice; as well as her dear lifelong friend, Nellie Melaika of Athol. Barbara will be remembered as an exceptionally kind and gracious woman who had the ability to bring out the best in those around her. She was smart, funny and incredibly empathetic. She had a knack for creating family and connection and brought unconditional acceptance to those she held dear. We are all better for having been loved by her. Calling hours are Friday, March 23, from 5:00 to 7:00 P.M. at Fiske-Murphy & Mack Funeral Home, 110 New Athol Rd., Orange. The funeral Mass is Saturday, March 24, at 10:00 A.M. at St. Francis Church, Main St., Athol. Burial will follow at Gethsemane Cemetery.