Joseph P. Puchalsky

ATHOL- Joseph Peter Puchalsky, 79, of Athol, died Wednesday, August 15, in Athol Memorial Hospital. Joe was born June 29, 1939, in Ware, son of the late Henry J. and Anne C. (Wilkauski) Puchalsky. He grew up in Barre and attended Barre schools. Joe worked for B & M Railroad for 10 years before working at L. S. Starrett in security until his retirement. After his retirement, he worked his vegetable stand until his death. Joe enjoyed all the New England sports teams. He enjoyed rousing conversations with anyone about sports or politics which he truly enjoyed and appreciated. The Country Store was where he would often be found hanging around with friends. He enjoyed the people who visited his Vegetable Stand. His dedication and hard work during the holiday seasons on the food baskets was a blessing to many. He was a kind man with a big heart whom many benefited from with his random acts of kindness. St. Francis was his place for worship as he frequently attended Mass. He was friendly to all and was called friend by many and to have known him was a treasure. He leaves his wife of 48 years, Joyce A. (Kowalski) Puchalsky; one brother, David Puchalsky of Cape Cod; two sisters, Barbara Narcissi of Rutland, and Ann Whigham of AZ; many nieces and nephews; a great niece and great nephew who had a special place in Joe’s heart, Kyra and Jayden Grummell. He was predeceased by a brother, Thomas Puchalsky, and two sisters, Adrienne Andrukonis, and Pauline Koval. Calling hours are Thursday, August 23, from 9:30 to 11:30 A.M. at Higgins-O’Connor Funeral Home, 146 Main St., Athol. The Funeral Mass will follow at 12:00 Noon at St. Francis Church, Main St., Athol. Burial will follow in Silver Lake Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in his memory to the Athol Animal Control, c/o Athol Police Department, 280 Exchange St., Athol, MA 01331, or to the charity of one’s choice. To send an online condolence, please visit www.mackfamilyfh.com.