By Melanie Petrucci, Senior Community Reporter

Northborough – On Dec. 17, at their regularly scheduled meeting, the Board of Selectmen had a discussion regarding the structure of next year’s Applefest, which will take place Sept. 19-22, 2019.

At issue the date of the annual parade – whether it should remain on Sunday of the festival weekend or be moved to Saturday.

Members of the Applefest Committee were present at this meeting and the board received emails from the Girl Scouts, Rotary Club and Town Common Committee expressing their views that the parade should remain on Sunday.

“I have the same concern that I had in the spring that we are maxing out DPW, the fire department and the police department and I personally feel that we didn’t have the turnout for the parade that we normally do,” shared Board Chair Dawn Rand who supported moving the parade back to Saturday.

“I feel that right now we are in year of transition and that Applefest is a large community event and I think it’s only going to get bigger…There is so much going on on Saturdays as it is,” added Selectman Leslie Rutan, who favors keeping the parade on Sunday, along with selectmen Tim Kaelin and Julianne Hirsch.

Arguments in favor of having everything on Saturday included those who only wanted to devote one day of their weekend to the festival and concern over stretching town resources too thin. On the other side, arguments in favor of keeping the parade on Sundays sited the flexibility of being able to take part in more activities and enjoy the parade.

“What is the goal of the parade? Is it to draw more people?” Rutan asked.

Town Administrator John Coderre remarked that the reason for this discussion was so that people’s opinions could be heard in an open and transparent way.

Applefest Committee Chair Michelle Gillespie spoke on behalf of the committee and presented packets to the board with letters from 20 businesses asking that the parade remain on Sundays. She also had a petition with over 100 signatures in favor of keeping the parade on Sundays. She also shared that last September’s high heat and humidity contributed to the light turnout for the parade.

“Closing down a major highway when people come from other communities to Applefest has a huge impact on them and it has an impact on the banks that have signed this [petition], and hairdressers who’ve signed this and stores,” Gillespie stated.

Local resident Ed Bombard said that he has been marching in the parade for years and has coordinated the Color Guard who, last year, was actually able to participate in the fair with their families.

After a few more comments, the board ultimately voted in favor of keeping the parade on Sunday of the annual festival weekend.

Northborough – Micah A. Quarles, 42, passed away Dec. 24, 2018, at the UMass Memorial Medical Center—University Campus from complications after suffering a seizure. He was the devoted husband of Katie A. (Greenberg) Quarles and beloved father to their children, Caleb and Madison; his family was his world.

Micah was born in Washington, D.C., raised in Arkansas and Louisiana, and was a graduate of Belaire High School, Baton Rouge, La. He was employed by Wellborn Cabinet, Inc. as a senior systems engineer and was a member of the Southboro Rod & Gun Club.

Besides his wife, Katie, and their children, Micah leaves his parents, William D. and Cynthia A. (Inman) Quarles, and his maternal grandmother, Barbara Inman, all whom reside in  Lou Ann, Ar.; his brother, Daniel M. Quarles (Patricia) of Hudson, N.H.; and his in-laws, Mark and Karen Greenberg of W. Barnstable. He also leaves his uncles and aunts, Robert Inman (Amy), Jeannine Kilgere (Doug), Carl Inman (Tonya), James A. Quarles (Betty), Karen Barker and Shirley Hanley (Charlie); two brother-in-laws, Scott Greenberg and Michael Greenberg; and many nieces and nephews.

Calling hours will be held Wednesday, Jan. 2, from 5-7 p.m., at Hays Funeral Home, 56 Main St., Northborough. Micah’s funeral will be held in the funeral home Thursday, Jan. 3, at 10 a.m., with burial following in Howard Street Cemetery of Northborough.

Micah’s family respectfully asks that in lieu of flowers, please consider a memorial donation to the Micah Quarles Family Memorial Fund, c/o St. Mary’s Credit Union, PO Box 4144, Woburn, MA 01888.

To read Micah’s complete obituary, or to leave a word of support for his family, please visit www.HaysFuneralHome.com.

Northborough – Martha B. (Savener) Mason, 83, passed away Dec. 20, 2018, at UMass Medical Center-University Campus in Worcester after a short illness.

Martha was born in New Haven, Conn., the daughter of the late Harry and Rhea (Sacks) Savener. Growing up in New Haven, Martha excelled in school – receiving all “A’s” – and enjoyed the company of many friends.

Martha was multi-talented. She loved to horseback ride, read, and paint with oils. She was an excellent Bridge player and happy to teach friends how to play. She was one of only two girls in her high school class to be admitted to Wellesley College, where she received an excellent liberal arts education, concentrating in English literature, and auditioned for and was admitted to sing with a well-known campus a cappella group.

After her return to the New Haven area she worked as an advertising director at the former Besse Rich Company. It was here that she met her future husband, David Mason, a visiting sales representative. This by fate moment was the beginning of 56 years together until Martha’s passing.

Martha worked for several years as the public relations director at Anna Maria College and served as a freelance writer for the editorial section of the Worcester Telegram. Later in life, Martha and David were co-owners of the Welch House Inn Bed and Breakfast in Boothbay Harbor, Maine.

Martha is survived by her loving husband, David; two sons, Scott and his wife Caroline of Virginia Beach, Va., and Andrew and his wife Carrie of Framingham; four grandchildren, Danika, Marcus, Sarah Grace, and Kendrick; and two great-grandchildren, Cora-Faye and Lilly.

As per Martha’s wishes, all services were private and are complete.

Northborough/Taunton – Guy B. Savage Jr. of Taunton, formerly of the Northborough, Metrowest, and Boston areas, passed away Dec. 23, 2018 at Morton Hospital after a brief period of declining health. His wife of 54 years, Harriet L. (Smith) Savage, passed away in 2004.

Guy was born in Boston, one of three children to the late Guy and Evelyn (Scott) Savage. He attended Westwood Public Schools, was an accomplished athlete, notably both in basketball and football, and was inducted to the Westwood High School Athletic Hall of Fame.

He worked as a truck driver and proud Teamster for most of his career, much of it with H.A. Johnson Trucking and APA Trucking.

Guy looked forward to challenging games of Scrabble, crossword puzzles, and spending time with his family. His family and friends will miss the humor and wit that Guy was known for.

Guy is survived by three children, Stephen G. Savage and his wife Patricia of Taunton, David M. Savage of Dedham, and Kathi L. Cuoco and her husband Jack of Northborough. Two daughters, Charlotte L. Savage and Linda S. Riley, preceded him in death. Guy also leaves four grandchildren, William G. Jennette, Daniel G. Savage, Jennifer L. Ferreira and her husband John, and Michael Cuoco; three great-grandchildren, Aubree and Adisynn Ferreira and Devin Wilson; a brother, Scott Savage of Walpole; and a sister, Joan Caddell of Millville.

Calling hours were held Dec. 30 at Hays Funeral Home of Northborough.

To view Guy’s full life story, please visit his Book of Memories at www.HaysFuneralHome.com.

Northborough – Jean M. (Donnelly) Pease, 88, passed away peacefully Dec. 27, 2018 after a period of declining health.

She was born in Worcester, a daughter to the late Samuel and Agnes (Moran) Donnelly. Prior to retirement she was a marketing representative for Digital Equipment Corporation. She had a fondness for dogs.

Jean is survived by a son, John C. Riley and his wife Suzanne of Northborough; a granddaughter, Christine Richards; a nephew, Father John Loughnane; and a niece, Christine Webb and her husband Kevin. She was predeceased by her brother, John Donnelly, and her sister, Audrey Loughnane.

Jean has been laid to rest in the Howard Street Cemetery of Northborough after a private graveside ceremony.

Her family wishes to thank the staff of Westboro Healthcare for their supportive care and kindness shown to Jean during her stay.

Services were under the direction of Hays Funeral Home, 56 Main St., Northborough.

By Melanie Petrucci, Senior Community Reporter.

Northborough – Gymnastics coach Margaret Szluga recently travelled with the Massachusetts Special Olympics team to the 2018 USA Games held in Seattle Washington July 1-6.

Roughly 4,000 athletes and coaches from across the country competed before thousands of spectators.

“It was amazing and an adventure for sure,” Szluga said. “I didn’t really know what to expect but it was everything I could have hoped for.”

The Northborough resident is a speech language pathologist with Early Intervention in Marlborough where she works with very young children. She also volunteers for Challenge programs in the area where she helps with youth and college age team-building projects.

“When I was 11, my older sister would coach [Special Olympics] and I would tag along and kind of help out with some of the athletes,” Szluga said.

A former gymnast herself, Szluga contacted the Special Olympics soon after moving back to the area after graduate school to get involved.

“It was just something that we did and it was another way to experience gymnastics,” she recalled. “The Special Olympics team practiced on Saturday and for me it was a way to get my foot in the door coaching. I could help out and I could teach some of the skills that I knew. It was a really cool opportunity for me.”

When the opportunity came to go to Seattle, she said, she “jumped right on it.”

“It’s always been something that I’ve wanted to do, to go to a USA Games or World Games,” Szluga explained.

Two of her athletes were able to go as well which was “awesome.” They were her “two Sams,” Samantha (Sami) Vayo of Worcester and Samantha (Sam) Berndt of Rutland. They each have physical limitations which include hearing impairments and cerebral palsy.

“I was hoping that my girls would have fun and that I would have an opportunity to meet other coaches and see what other programs were doing,” Szluga noted. “I got the chance to network with a lot of the coaches and talk about the Massachusetts program and how it differs from other states that were there.”

Szluga said off the various gymnastics segments, she is partial to the floor routines.

“No matter your ability there is always something you can do on the floor,” she explained. “There is always something we can find that will look beautiful when we put it to floor music.”

Szluga is excited about what she can bring to the Massachusetts Special Olympic program and plans to continue to volunteer her expertise. Meanwhile, when she isn’t working or volunteering, she likes to spend her time with her husband and her dog. She also runs and participates in triathlons. She ran in the 2018 Boston Marathon.

For more information about the Massachusetts Special Olympics, visit www.specialolympicsma.org.

Northborough – Paul W. Rhinhart, 70, passed away unexpectedly Jan. 2, 2019, at the UMass Medical Center’s University Campus. He was the beloved husband to Jane M. (Morrissey) Rhinhart.

Born and raised in Fargo, N.D., he was son of the late Olaf Joseph and Leola C. Rhinhart. He worked as an auditor, and met Jane, starting their 45 year journey together.

Paul was a hard worker with a strong work ethic, enjoying a deserved retirement. He spent countless hours perfecting his handyman skills working on constant projects in and around the house.

For many years he volunteered as a coach for the Northborough Baseball Association and Northborough Rec Basketball. He took pride in watching his grandchildren play sports, dance and grow up. Spending time with family was meaningful to Paul, whether on memorable family vacations or simply chauffeuring the kids around.

Paul leaves behind his beloved wife of 45 years, Jane M. (Morrissey) Rhinhart; his adored children and grandchildren, son Paul J. Rhinhart and wife Elisha of Gardner, daughter Katie Nordman and husband Dale of Worcester, daughter Kristin O’Mara and husband Kevin of Sutton, daughter Shannon Rhinhart and husband Attilio Punzo of Rome, Italy, son Michael Stonehart and wife Lindsey of Cranston, R.I., and daughter Colleen Rhinhart of Northborough; and his 11 cherished grandchildren. Paul was predeceased by his sister, Joanne Rhinhart, and survived by his brother, Joseph Rhinhart and his wife Nancy of Minnesota; his sister, Gayle Matz and husband David of Minnesota; his brother, David Rhinhart of Florida; brother Timothy Rhinhart and his wife Lynn of Minnesota; and many nieces, nephews and extended family.

His funeral was held Jan. 7 at the Mount Calvary Lutheran Church, 472 Massachusetts Ave., Acton.

To share a condolence, please visit www.HaysFuneralHome.com.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Mount Calvary Youth Mission Trips.

Northborough – Roland J. Bassett, 87, a longtime resident of Northborough and husband of 62 years to Anne E. (Hanson) Bassett, passed away at Framingham Union Hospital Dec. 31, 2018.

Roland was born in Marlborough, a son to the late George and Julia (Stone) Bassett. He was a 1949 graduate of Marlborough High School. In 1952 Roland was called to serve his country.

After his honorable discharge from the Army in 1954, he worked as a machinist at Fenwall Corp, General Scanning, and Honeywell prior to forming the Olympic Manufacturing Co, a prototype machine shop which he partnered in the operation of for over 20 years.

Roland found enjoyment in outdoor sports such as hunting, fishing, clamming, and camping. He was well known for his quick wit. He was a proud member of the Vincent F. Picard American Legion Post 234 and was a longtime member of St. Rose of Lima Parish.

Besides his beloved wife, Anne, Roland is survived by their children, Jeanne Kowal of Berlin, Mary Walter of Southborough, Paula Kapurch of Northborough, and Roland Bassett, Jr. of Worcester; 12 grandchildren and 3 great-grandchildren. Roland also leaves his brother, Robert Bassett of Parish, FL and Lorraine Maroney of Kittery, Maine. Roland and Anne’s daughter, Cynthia Bassett and their grandson, Kevin Bassett, as well as Roland’s sister, Marie Mullen, preceded him in death.

Calling hours will be held Thursday, Jan. 10, from 5-7 p.m., at Hays Funeral Home, 56 Main St., Northborough. A funeral will be held Friday, Jan. 11, at 11 a.m., at St. Rose of Lima Parish, 244 W. Main St., Northborough.

To share a condolence, please visit www.HaysFuneralHome.com.

By Melanie Petrucci, Senior Community Reporter

Northborough – Town Planner Kathy Joubert appeared before the board at their Dec. 17 meeting to seek approval of a Conservation Restriction (CR) for 301 Bartlett St., which is the last step needed in this multi-year process.

There is a large warehouse currently under construction at the site. This restriction will permanently protect 23.2 acres of land by preventing further building on this site, which is a priority habitat area for the Blue-Spotted Salamander – an endangered species under the Massachusetts Endangered Species Act (MESA) which was discovered in 2008.

It is important to note that this CR is identical to one that the board signed in 2008. The state is requiring a new and updated form but the elements of the 2008 CR have not changed. It was essentially a housekeeping task.

Joubert said that this is the last step and that Town Counsel has reviewed this as well.

“This particular project falls in some of that priority habitat so what the state did was through their review process with the Natural Heritage and through the Division of Fisheries & Wildlife, they worked with the developer and requested that there be an area that would have a Conservation Restriction placed on it so no building could ever happen there,” Joubert informed the board.

The Conservation Commission approved to accept and signed their portion of this restriction at their meeting held Dec. 10. The board unanimously voted to approve this acceptance Dec. 17.

Northborough – William “Bill” Scott Pulsifer, 57, of Northborough, passed away unexpectedly Jan. 2, 2019 at his residence in Germantown, Tenn.

Bill was born July 25, 1961 in Boston. Bill’s parents were Karl Pulsifer and Joan Marie Pulsifer. Bill grew up in Northborough, where he graduated from Algonquin Regional High School in 1979.

Bill was a member of the Algonquin Regional High School wrestling team where he excelled in the sport of wrestling. Also during high school, he earned the highest level of distinction at the rank of Eagle Scout, in the Boy Scouts of America. Only 4 percent of Boy Scouts are granted this rank after a very lengthy review process of their hard work, dedication, and achievements.

On the happiest day of his life, Bill married Lisa Marie Roy Aug. 25, 1984 in Northborough.

In 1991, Bill graduated from the University of South Florida (USF) in Tampa, Fla. with a Bachelor’s of Science degree in Electrical Engineering, while working full-time and caring for his wife and daughter.

Bill worked as an electrical engineer for several companies through his lifetime, such as Honeywell in Largo, Fla. and Jabil in St. Petersburg, Fla.

However, his most honorable achievement was balancing school, work, and taking care of his wife and daughter Kasie Marie Pulsifer Jordan until he made the selfless decision to put his career on the back burner and dedicate the remainder of his life to taking care of his beautiful wife, Lisa Marie Roy Pulsifer, after her diagnosis with Multiple Sclerosis (MS) in 1987. Bill stood firmly by her side and served as her husband, best friend, and her caregiver during her 29 year battle with MS. They were happily married for 32 years until Lisa went home to be with the Lord in 2016, at the age of 51 years old.

In 2017, Bill moved to Germantown, Tenn. to be near his only daughter, Kasie Marie Pulsifer Jordan, her husband Mark Jordan, and their newborn baby, his granddaughter, Madison Marie Jordan.

During Bill’s life here on earth, he enjoyed being with his family, gardening, visiting with people he loved, fishing, helping others, sports, and he loved his New England Patriots. Go Pats!

Everyone that knew Bill will agree that he was very humble, generous, selfless, faithful, gentle, giving, forgiving, kind, loving, funny, intelligent, and that he loved his new role as a grandfather! His love and dedication to his wife, Lisa, are a true testament to his character and the fact that he set a perfect example, for all of us, of what true love is.

Bill was a truly amazing man who had a lifetime of accomplishments and it gives the family great peace to know that as a Christian he is reunited in heaven with his wife where there is no sadness, no illness, no suffering, and that one day as Christians we shall all be reunited as promised in the Holy Bible.

Bill was preceded in death by his wife, Lisa Marie Roy Pulsifer; his father, Karl Pulsifer; and his mother, Joan Pulsifer.

Bill is survived by his daughter and her husband, Kasie and Mark Jordan; his sisters, Patricia Pulsifer, Laura Belliveau, and Diana Pulsifer; his nephews, Steven Pulsifer, David Pulsifer, Cotey Belliveau, and John Maclellan; his nieces Meghan Maclellan and Sandra Hurd; his granddaughter Madison Marie Jordan; and other relatives.

A graveside memorial service and burial will be held Tuesday, Jan. 8, at 12 p.m., at Howard Street Cemetery, 50 Howard St., Northborough.

Flowers may be sent to Fitzgerald and Collins Funeral Home, 378 Lincoln St., Marlborough, by 7 p.m. on Jan. 7, or memorial donations can be made in his honor to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society at www.nationalmssociety.org. Condolences may be left on William “Bill” Pulsifer’s guest book at www.collinsfuneral.com/notices/William-Pulsifer.

John 3:16 For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.

Northborough – Boy Scout Troop 101 of Northborough is again sponsoring its annual town-wide Christmas tree pickup Saturday, Jan. 12, 2019. This service provides Northborough residents an easy and environmentally friendly method of disposing of their Christmas trees. To schedule a pickup, call 508-281-9972 or log on to http://bsatroop101ma.org before Jan. 12. Leave your address to be added to the route. On Jan. 12, leave your tree outside near the curb before 8:30 a.m. and place an envelope on your door with $8 per tree (cash or check payable to “BSA Troop 101 Northborough”).

Northborough

Thursday, Dec. 20

2:50 p.m. Kerrycraig Cir. Fraud.

4:37 p.m. Pleasant St. Well-being check.

Friday, Dec. 21

12:14 p.m. Hudson St. Accident: P.D.

1:39 p.m. Copley Dr. Fire Dept. asst.

4:13 p.m. East Main St. Well-being check.

4:58 p.m. Church St. Well-being check.

Saturday, Dec. 22

9:39 a.m. Little Pond Rd. Ambulance.

10:49 a.m. Emerson Rd. Fraud.

5:17 p.m. West Main St. Accident: P.I.

6:53 p.m. South St. Well-being check.

10:42 p.m. Jethro Peters Ln. Dog complaint.

Sunday, Dec. 23

11:57 a.m. Rustic Dr. Fire Dept. asst.

8:22 p.m. Stratton Way. Dog complaint.

9:35 p.m. Village Dr. Fire Dept. asst.

Monday, Dec. 24

6:18 a.m. Meadow Rd. Fire Dept. asst.

1:31 p.m. Otis St. Ambulance.

5:36 p.m. South St. Accident: P.D.

Tuesday, Dec. 25

3:32 a.m. Avalon Dr. Disturbance.

3:13 p.m. Crestwood Dr. Disturbance.

Wednesday, Dec. 26

10:03 a.m. Southwest Cutoff. Accident: P.I.

11:30 a.m. Whitney St. Fraud.

3:53 p.m. Arrested, Michael Wayne Lovelace, 57, of 14429 Avalon Dr., Northborough, on warrant.

5:14 p.m. South St. Accident: P.D.

Thursday, Dec. 27

12:58 a.m. Hudson St. Accident: P.D.

9:41 p.m. West Main St. Ambulance.

10:12 p.m. Overlock Dr. Well-being check.

Friday, Dec. 28

6:09 am. Avalon Dr. Fire Dept. asst.

2:01 p.m. Blueberry Ln. Ambulance.

7:44 p.m. Southwest Cutoff. Ambulance.

Saturday, Dec. 29

9:20 a.m. Belmont St./Route 9. Larceny.

12:11 p.m. Belmont St./Route 9. Ambulance.

9:43 p.m. Agawam Dr. Breaking and entering.

The information from the police log is obtained directly from the official records maintained at each police station in our circulation area. It contains arrests and samplings of police activity. Those arrested are innocent until proven guilty. The Community Advocate will publish news of acquittals upon notification and a copy of court-issued documentation.

Northborough – Ralph N. Jackson passed away peacefully, at the age of 84, Friday, Jan. 4, 2019 with his beloved family by his side. He was the husband of 59 years to M. Suzanne (Audette) Jackson.

Ralph was born in Hartland, Vt., a son to the late Richard and Helen (Manwaring) Jackson. He spent his childhood in the Talcottvile, Conn. area, and was a graduate of Rockville High School, class of 1952, prior to joining the Army. Ralph was assigned to the Red Stone Arsenal where he specialized in radio and signal processing.

After serving his country, Ralph enrolled at U-Conn where he earned his degree in Electrical Engineering. He also attended WPI as he continued his training as an engineer.

Ralph’s workplace portfolio included numerous leadership roles in the development of defense radar and telecom systems. He was known as the “go-to” for troubleshooting and was recognized by his peers for his values of being genuine and credible, the ability to convey wisdom before emotion in business situations. His family will most remember Ralph for his unconditional love and gift of humility.

For numerous years, Ralph taught electronics and electrical appliance repair at the Worcester House of Correction. He has been instrumental in the local AA community and a testament to those he has helped along their own journey. Ralph enjoyed restoring antique radios, working on cars, playing banjo at church services, spending time with his family and participating in the shenanigans with the Rat Pack of Northborough.

Ralph is survived by his wife, Sue; five children, Glenn, Todd, Scott, Craig, and Sarah; nine grandchildren whom he adored, Carrie, Becky, Ryane, Samantha, Elise, Danny, Devon, Sage and Kai; and two great-grandchildren, Brayden and Keegan. A daughter, Laura, preceded Ralph in death. He is also survived by his brother, Paul Jackson, and sister, Elaine Blaisdell.

His funeral Mass was celebrated Jan. 9 at St. Rose of Lima Parish of Northborough, followed by burial with military honors at Howard Street Cemetery.

Ralph’s family respectfully request that memorial contributions be made to Thrive Support & Advocacy, 65 Boston Post Road W. Suite 220, Marlborough, MA 01752; Rose Monahan Hospice Home, 10 Judith Rd., Worcester, MA 01602; or to the St. Rose of Lima Parish-Youth Ministry, 244 W. Main St., Northborough, MA 01532.

Please visit Ralph’s Book of Memories at www.haysfuneralhome.com to view a more complete life story and to leave a condolence.

Northborough – St. Bernadette School, 266 Main St., Northborough, will hold open houses Sunday, Jan. 27, from 1-3 p.m. and Thursday, Jan. 31, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.  There will be a complimentary breakfast following the 11 a.m. Mass on Sunday.  St. Bernadette School enrolls students in grades Pre-K to 8.  For more information, visit stb-school.org or call 508-351-9905.

Northborough

Sunday, Dec. 30

5:53 a.m. Longfellow Rd. Ambulance.

2:22 p.m. Arrested, Nathan David Picard, 32, of 260 Carpenter Rd., Whitinsville, for larceny under $1,200, aggravated shoplifting/shielding device removed.

5:12 p.m. South St. Fire Dept. asst.

10:09 p.m. Wesson Ter. Ambulance.

Monday, Dec. 31

10:13 a.m. Winter St. Fire Dept. asst.

4:02 p.m. Thoreau Rd. Dog complaint.

11:42 p.m. Village Dr. Ambulance.

Tuesday, Jan. 1

2:08 a.m. Arrested, Lauren M. Lacava, 31, of 12 Ontario Rd., Hudson, for OUI liquor, negligent operation of motor vehicle, marked lanes violation, speeding.

2:53 p.m. Pond View Way. Ambulance.

5:16 p.m. Avalon Dr. Dog complaint.

8:13 p.m. Pleasant St. Ambulance.

Wednesday, Jan. 2

10:09 a.m. Howard St. Well-being check.

12:16 p.m. Spruce Hill Dr. Ambulance.

2:10 p.m. Arrested, John Nyei, 23, of 22 Pemberton, Worcester, on warrant.

5:24 p.m. Southwest Cutoff. Civil/criminal complaint.

6:19 p.m. Little Pond Rd. Well-being check.

Thursday, Jan. 3

10:17 a.m. Greenland Cir. Ambulance.

12:32 p.m. Southwest Cutoff. Scams.

2:56 p.m. Kerrycraig Cir. Trespass.

3:35 p.m. Shops Way. Fire Dept. asst.

Friday, Jan. 4

1:26 a.m. Arrested, Stephen Michael Lester, 31, of 1 Pinewoods Ln., Apt 517, Sutter Creek, Calif., for negligent operation of motor vehicle, speeding in violation special regulation, OUI liquor.

9:27 a.m. Maple St. Dog complaint.

10:58 a.m. Southwest Cutoff. Keep the peace.

2:50 p.m. Bartlett St. Dog complaint.

8:58 p.m. Orchard Cir. ambulance.

Saturday, Jan. 5

6:22 a.m. Meadow Rd. Ambulance.

2:13 p.m. Bartlett St. Fire Dept. asst.

5:30 p.m. Summer St. Dog complaint.

10:42 p.m. Hemlock Dr. Accident: P.D.

11:41 p.m. Chesterfield Rd. Ambulance.

The information from the police log is obtained directly from the official records maintained at each police station in our circulation area. It contains arrests and samplings of police activity. Those arrested are innocent until proven guilty. The Community Advocate will publish news of acquittals upon notification and a copy of court-issued documentation.

Northborough – Anne M. Detora, 91, of Northborough, passed away Jan. 15, 2019 in her home.

Born in Brussels, Belgium, she was the daughter of the late Jane L. and Octave Herman. She came to Providence from Belgium in 1953, and was followed by her mother and most of her eight siblings.

Anne met her late husband John while working for Mohawk Airlines as a flight attendant. After several years of raising children, Anne re-entered the workforce as a podiatric assistant. She loved working with patients – getting to know them, helping relieve their pain, and providing emotional support.

Anne and John lived most of their 50 married years in Carlisle, Mass. and Atlanta, Ga. They moved to Northborough to be close to their grandchildren.

Family was Anne’s priority and joy. She was an adoring, caring, actively involved grandmother and mother. She delighted in everything her grandchildren did, and always supported their interests.

Anne was an active member of St. Bernadette’s in Northborough and in her neighborhood community. She was an avid reader, birdwatcher, gardener, baker, and nature lover.

Anne was predeceased by her son, Mark, and is survived by her daughter, Danielle of Stow; her son-in-law, Andy; and two grandsons, Spencer and Jonas, as well as three sisters, Suzanne Ziegelmayer of Smithfield, R.I., Marie-Jeanne DuBois of Prescott, Ariz., and Raymonde Navarette of Wakefield, R.I.; and Benjamine Wilson of Seattle, Wash.; and many nieces and nephews.

A funeral Mass was celebrated Jan. 19 at St. Bernadette Parish of Northborough.

Please visit www.Haysfuneralhome.com to read Anne’s complete obituary or to leave a condolence.

Anne’s family respectfully request that, in lieu of flowers, please consider a memorial donation to a charity of your choice.

Shrewsbury/Northborough – Susann M. Tassé passed away peacefully in her sleep Jan. 15, 2019, following a brief hospitalization at St. Vincent’s Hospital in Worcester. She spoke with many of her friends and family in the hours just prior to her death, and comforted them all with the knowledge that she was ready to leave this world and move on to her next adventure.

Born in 1932 in Weilau, a village in Transylvania, Romania, Susann was orphaned very young as her mother died soon after her birth and her father was killed in action in WWII. She was raised by her grandparents, and fled with them across Europe at the end of the war as the Russians were advancing on her hometown. After making it to Austria, she was enrolled in an orphan relief program and immigrated to America in 1948. As a result of her escape from battle-torn Europe, she always loved and identified with the story of the Von Trapp family in the “Sound of Music.”

Upon arriving in America, she was fostered by a family in Clinton, N.J., where she worked hard to learn English and completed her high school education at North Hunterdon High School in 1952.

As a young adult, Suzanne was hired by Pan Am Airlines to be a flight attendant, and she had many stories to tell of her adventures with the airline. During this period of her life, she met Carolyn Tassé, a fellow flight attendant, and Normand Best, a flight engineer, who remained lifelong friends. Carolyn introduced Susann to Charles Tassé, whom she married in 1957.

After Charles finished dental school in 1960, Susann moved with him to Northborough and helped him establish a dentistry practice in town. Susann and Charles raised three children there, and shared with them all a love of the outdoors, especially skiing, boating, hiking and bicycling. She was also active in St. Rose of Lima parish functions.

Beginning in 1981, Susann lived independently and worked hard to provide the two children still living with her with a wonderful home. In 2001, she moved out of the house she first lived in in Northborough and retired to Shrewsbury Commons, where she lived until her death.

A tremendously social woman, Susann made friends easily, and had a gigantic network of people who knew, respected, and loved her. She enjoyed company and a glass of wine. She had an easy smile, and a folksy wisdom that made her a mentor to many young people who came to know her. She touched many lives, and changed them all.  She will be greatly missed by all who knew her.

Predeceased by Charles, who died in 1996, Susann leaves behind two sons, John C  Tassé (wife Leslie) and James C. Tassé (wife Sarah), and a daughter, Marielle Stone (husband Jim). She has two grandchildren, John’s sons Christopher Tassé (wife Sandy)  and Benjamin Tassé (wife Julie), and three great-grandchildren, Chris’s daughter Miranda and son Ayrton, and Ben’s son Luke.

Calling hours will be held Sunday, Jan. 27, from 12-2 p.m., at Hays Funeral Home, 56 Main St., Northborough.

Susann’s family respectfully request that in lieu of flowers, a memorial donation be made to Elder Services of Worcester Area, 67 Millbrook St., Worcester, MA 01606 (www.eswa.org).

Northborough – The Northborough Education Foundation will hold its third annual Gala Jr. Saturday, Feb. 9, at the Algonquin Regional High School cafeteria, 79 Bartlett St, Northborough. The event will be held from 4:30-6:00 p.m., recommended for children ages 6 and under, and 6:30-8 p.m., recommended for children ages 7 and up.

Boys and girls get to put on their favorite fancy clothes and join their parent/parents, or a special grown up, for a fun evening of dancing, games, hors-d’oeuvres, sweets and more.

Tickets are $15 per person and are available for purchase at galajr.eventbrite.com. Parents who plan to attend both time slots only require one ticket.

All proceeds from the event will benefit the Northborough Education Foundation (NEF), a volunteer-run organization that provides teachers and administrators in Northborough with the resources necessary to improve curriculum, programs and services beyond the level supported by the annual school budget. For calendar year 2019, NEF has the generous support of platinum sponsor, Sullivan-Kreiss Financial.

NEF is a tax exempt charitable organization. All donations can be mailed to Northborough Education Foundation, PO Box 1094, Northborough, MA 01532. For questions about NEF or how a business can become a sponsor, visit www.northboroughed.org.

Northborough – Jacqueline Taylor, the owner of Scrubs with Style, is currently accepting nominations for the store’s first “We Nurses Award”.  This award rewards and celebrates an outstanding nurse whose attitude, dedication, clinical excellence and patient empathy goes above and beyond.

The honoree will be celebrated with a complete new scrub outfit, new shoes and Littmann Stethoscope. ($400-$500 value)

To nominate an outstanding nurse, visit www.scrubswithstyle.com/award or email scrubswithstyle.gmail.com. Nominations may also be mailed to: Scrubs with Style, 247B West Main St., Northborough, MA 01532, Attn: Nurses Award.

The deadline for nominations is Tuesday, Feb. 26, 2019.

By Bonnie Adams, Managing Editor

‘The Maynard Home’ to be demolished after 259 years

Northborough – When an old home is taken down, there is often a mix of emotions, not the least of them sadness. A home of course is not just a structure; rather, it is a place that has offered shelter, comfort, refuge and more, sometimes for generations. That was indeed the case for one Northborough home, located at 222 West Main St.

The home, built in 1760, will soon be no more as it has been sold and eventually razed.

For Beverly French Keigwin, whose family owned the home for generations prior to its sale in 2017, this is especially sad.

Its earliest owners were familiar names in the region, Keigwin said, including Maynard, Ettinger and Knowlton. Formally known by the Mass. Historical Commission as “The Maynard Home,” the house is a brick one and a half story Colonial Cottage with a one story gable roofed, three car garage.

Three generations lived together in the home then owned by her grandfather, Fred Herbert French, Sr. and his wife Linnie [Coddens] French, in the early 1940s, just as WWII was beginning.

“It was a ‘gentleman’s farm,’” she recalled, “which meant is provided just enough for us. We had a team of work horses, a cow, a goat, and many chickens. There was enough land for the hay that the animals needed and the necessary vegetable garden for us.”

As it turns out, Keigwin’s father, Fred Herbert French, Jr. had no interest in farming.

“My dad reasoned that the returning veterans would need starter homes and could use their GI Bills to buy them,” Keigwin said.

So gone was the “gentleman’s Farm,” she said, and in came the Small Homes Company, which later became the F.H. French Company.

“He could build three houses in a good day,” she added. The company later built commercial buildings throughout New England as well.

When not running his business, her father enjoyed rebuilding cars, especially exotic ones, she added, and even raced some of them.

After Keigwin and her husband, Jack, purchased F.H. French Company from her parents when the older couple retired, they focused on building turnkey office parks and medical facilities. Their daughter Jen Cookke now runs the company from its Lincoln, Rhode Island office.

“My dad would be very proud. He was the genius, hands on builder, tall and strong, but the company has a proud history of female influences, starting with my super capable mother,” Marjorie (Burgoyne) French. Keigwin said. “The legacy of the home and the growth and  development of Northboro is forever intertwined.”

As for the former homestead, Keigwin knows that things change and not everything can be saved. Because of its dilapidated condition, the current owner, Abu Construction, applied for a demolition for the property last March, which was granted.

According to Anthony Abu, the house most likely will be demolished in March. Three houses are anticipated to then be built on the property, with two remaining lots still to be determined.