Denise Marie Ouellette

Denise Marie (Cormier) Ouellette passed away peacefully at home surrounded by her family on April 30, 2026. Born in Gardner, MA on September 19, 1955, Denise was the youngest of six children. She was the daughter of the late Rose (Richard) and Ovila Cormier.

Denise had a rebellious spirit, a great sense of humor, and a love of laughter. Her greatest passion was supporting her grandchildren, whether watching a match on the field, a game on the court, or a musical production on stage; she loved each of them and was always their greatest (and often their loudest) cheerleader. Denise had artistic talent and over the years she enjoyed painting, cross stitch, woodburning, and airbrushing. She shared many special memories doing art projects with her grandchildren throughout the years.

Denise was a friend to many and made an impact on people wherever she went. She was a friendly face at Forum Video in Gardner for many years, connecting with customers of all ages. She also worked for many years at Woods Ambulance - initially as an EMT, then later as a dispatcher, and medi-van driver. Denise cared deeply about the people she worked with, the patients she treated, and the families she served throughout the years.

Denise is survived by her husband of 44 years, Chris Ouellette of Gardner; two daughters, Shannon Ouellette and her husband Marc Kibort of Westminster, and Erin Gamache and her husband Pete of Gardner; four beloved grandchildren, Eden Ouellette, Vivian Kibort, and Camden and Kendall Gamache; a brother, Raymond Cormier of Gardner; brother-in-law, Joe Foley of Gardner; sister-in-law, Kathy Ouellette of Phillipston; and mother and father-in-law, Ann and Vernon Ouellette of Gardner. She is also survived by several nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Denise was predeceased by four siblings, Simonne, Gerard, Francis, and Paul Cormier. Family was always important to her and she stayed connected to extended family members throughout her life.

Denise enjoyed the sound of windchimes, the mystical spirit of wizards, the flutter of butterflies, the breeze of the ocean, and the beauty of the moon, stars, and night sky. She was known to find a heart in almost any setting - clouds, leaves, rocks, even food - and always shared the images with those she loved. She appreciated the power of nature, and enjoyed watching (and sometimes chasing) New England storms in all seasons.

Funeral services will be held on Friday, May 15th at Mack Funeral Home, 105 Central Street, Gardner, MA with calling hours from 10am - 12pm, with a brief funeral service to follow.

Memorial donations may be made to Care Central VNA Hospice, 34 Pearly Lane, Gardner, MA 01440, in memory of Denise Ouellette.