Varnum & Charbonneau Funeral Homes

08/25/2026

Joseph A. Poor

Joseph Alan Poor, of Ware, MA, passed away unexpectedly on Saturday August 8, 2026. Born on October 29, 1967, Joe was born in Malden MA, and grew up in Stow, MA. He was the son of the late Alan and Patricia (Laing) Poor of Stow, MA.

Joe was a true family man with a kind heart and a generous spirit. He was the type of person who would do anything for someone and expect nothing in return. He had a wonderful dry sense of humor, loved telling funny stories about the old days, and could always make people laugh with his silly puns and quick wit.

Joe’s greatest joy was spending time with the people he loved. One of his favorite places was the family camp in Fitzwilliam, NH, where he enjoyed hanging out with family, playing cards, sharing stories, and simply enjoying time together. He especially cherished the time he spent with his daughter, Hannah. Together, they attended concerts and enjoyed trips to the Big E, creating memories that Hannah will carry with her always.

Joe had a lifelong love of music, especially classic rock. He took great pride in his collection of classic rock cassettes and CDs and could often be found listening to artists such as Eric Clapton, The Doors, and Pink Floyd. He also had a special appreciation for all 1957 Chevys.

For nearly 30 years, Joe worked for several property management companies. He took great pride in his work and, more importantly, in the residents he cared for. Joe built lasting relationships with the people he served, and those relationships meant as much to him as they did to the residents who came to know and care for him. He will be deeply missed by his many friends, coworkers, and former residents at Beacon Communities, Equity Residential and Palmer Green Estates, throughout his years in property management.

Joe will be remembered for his big heart, his generosity, his humor, his love of family, music, animals, and classic cars, and for the countless ways he made people feel cared for. He gave his love freely, never expecting anything in return.

Joe was a lifelong blood donor and through the American Red Cross, he donated more than 100 pints of blood, quietly making a difference in the lives of countless people he would never even meet.

He will be deeply missed, but the stories, laughter, music, family memories, and the love he leaves behind will keep his spirit alive in the hearts of those who knew him.

Joe leaves behind his beloved daughter, Hannah Poor; his brother, John Poor, and sister-in-law, Pam; his nephews, Jake and Alex; his brother, Ed Poor, and sister-in-law, Cheryl; his Aunt Karen Poor; his cousins; and his former wife and dear friend, Melissa Cartier.

Rest peacefully, Joe. You were loved, you made a difference, and you will never be forgotten.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that donations be made to The Joseph Poor Memorial Fund. Checks can be sent to Westfield Savings Bank at 350 Palmer Road Ware, MA 01082. Established for his beloved daughter, Hannah Poor. Contributions will help support Hannah’s future and honor the love Joe had for his daughter.

Services will be held privately; Charbonneau Funeral Home is honored to serve the Poor Family, an online tribute page can be found on charbonneayfh.com.

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08/18/2026

Michael S. Soja

WARE: Michael S. Soja, 58, of Ware, passed away unexpectedly, on Tuesday, August 11, 2026. He leaves behind his beloved wife and best friend of 12 years, Nikki Soja; along with their two precious daughters, Lilliana Rylee Soja and Everleigh Summer Soja of Ware, MA; a stepdaughter Kelsie Nimtz and her husband Jared, of Greenfield, MA; his mother Judith Letourneau of Amherst, MA; his sisters, Lynne Soja-Getek and her husband Ryan, of San Diego and Maria Soja of Shrewsbury, MA; and his nephew Luke Hanson of East Longmeadow, MA. Michael is predeceased by his daughter Lailyn Soja, his sister Melissa A. Soja, his father William J. Soja and his stepfather William J. Towlson.

A lifelong resident of Ware, Michael was a dedicated employee and valued colleague at UMASS Amherst for more than 20 years, serving in various capacities, most recently as the President of AFSCME local 1776. Beyond work, Michael enjoyed spending time outdoors and took great pride in caring for and maintaining the home he created for his family. More than anything, he treasured the time he spent with those he cared about and loved.

Michael enjoyed traveling with Nikki and was so happy to finally make it out of the country with her, not once, but twice. One of his favorite places to be was at the beach, where he spent many days enjoying sunrises and sunsets, and playing in the waves with his girls. Michael loved to cook and was especially known for making his meatballs. Music was also a big part of his life. He loved singing along to his favorite songs in the car, beside a great fire, and with his girls at home, often pulling Nikki into the kitchen to dance with him.

Over the years, Michael enjoyed attending many concerts and live music events with family and friends, making memories with the people who meant the most to him. Michael will be remembered by those who knew and loved him as someone who genuinely cared about others and was always willing to help. He had a way of encouraging those around him to look on the bright side, offering support and positivity when they needed it most. His love for his family, his caring nature, and the way he showed up for the people in his life will be deeply missed.

There will be a brief calling hour for Michael from 10:00am-11:00am in All Saints Church, 17 North Street, Ware, MA 01082 on Saturday, August 22, 2026, with a Funeral Mass to follow at 11am. Burial will be held privately.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the: Lilliana and Everleigh Soja Fund.

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08/17/2026

Harold W. Hilsinger

Harold W. Hilsinger, 94, passed away peacefully at his home on Thursday, August 13, 2026, with his family by his side. He is survived by his loving wife of 50 years, Barbara A. (Waite) Hilsinger; his daughter, Claire Hilsinger of Greenfield; his grandchildren, Calvin Hilsinger and Mary Hilsinger of Tampa, Florida; his nephew, Jeff Jacobs of New Jersey; as well as many cousins and friends. In addition to his parents, Harold was predeceased by his son, Aaron Hilsinger, and his sister, Marjorie Jacobs.

Harold was born in Midland, Michigan, son of the late Harold and Kathryn (Wheeler) Hilsinger. He graduated from Midland High School before attending the University of Michigan, where he earned his bachelor's degree. He went on to receive his doctorate in physics from the University of Connecticut and spent more than 36 years as a physics professor at Worcester Polytechnic Institute. He retired in 1998.

During their retirement, Harold and Barbara enjoyed traveling throughout the world. Among their many adventures, they visited Alaska, skied in Austria, the French and Swiss Alps, toured Italy, and made many trips to Florida to spend time with their grandchildren. Harold was an avid reader and a talented woodworker.

In their younger years, Harold and Barbara built a family cabin in New Hampshire, where they enjoyed hiking, camping, skiing and exploring the White Mountains. In 1975, they embarked on an extraordinary 4,600-mile bicycle journey across the United States, cycling approximately 60 miles each day and completing the trip in just 11 weeks. It was one of many adventures that created a lifetime of cherished memories for their family.

Services will be private.

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08/15/2026

Ernest E. McCarthy

Warren/Ware, MA — Ernest Edward McCarthy Jr. (“Mac”), age 89, of Cedarbrook Village in Ware and formerly of Warren, passed away peacefully on August 13 at Rose Monahan Hospice House in Worcester, Massachusetts. Mac was the original GIRL DAD, devoted to his five daughters: Mary Johnson (Vernon), Lisa O’Keefe (Kevin), Maureen Jankins (Michael), Lynn Butler (David), and Monicia Galamaga (Peter). He is also survived by his sisters Joanne D’Amore and Marilyn Coltey. Mac was predeceased by his beloved wife of 66 years, Patricia (Castano) McCarthy, his siblings Richard McCarthy and Dorothy “Ish” Dierman, and his parents Ernest and Dorothy (O’Connor) McCarthy. He was a proud and loving grandfather to fifteen grandchildren: Hillary Johnson Shear (Jack), Brian Johnson (Emily), Benjamin Johnson, Kelsey O’Keefe Spear (Kurt), Reilly O’Keefe Magazine (Matthew), Meaghan O’Keefe Redd (Richy), Cody Jankins, Olivia Jankins (Luke Whelan), Thomas Jankins (Casey), Shelby Jankins, Samuel Butler (Danielle), Mackenzie Butler, Timothy Galamaga, Daniel Galamaga, and Charles Galamaga. Mac was affectionately known as “Poppa” or “Big Mac” to his ten great‑grandchildren: Zoey, Cole, Piper, Ellie, Delaney, Quinn, McKenna, Spencer, Hadley, and Harper.

Born at Mary Lane Hospital in Ware, Mac was the eldest child of Ernest E. McCarthy Sr. and Dorothy (O’Connor) McCarthy. A lifelong resident of Warren, he cherished the simple joys of small‑town life, close friendships, and community involvement. Over the years, he volunteered for the Finance Committee, the Quaboag Booster Club, and the Alumni Association. Mac was a gifted athlete, excelling in basketball and baseball at Warren High School. A 1954 graduate, he served as Class President, attended Boys State, and received a Citizenship Award at the Statehouse. He spent a postgraduate year at Worcester Academy, helping the team win its first New England Prep School Basketball Championship in 1955. Committed to education, Mac earned his degree at night from Holyoke Community College while raising his family. His passion for sports carried throughout his life — he traveled up and down the East Coast to watch his children and grandchildren compete. In one legendary pre‑GPS day, he managed to attend three of his daughters’ basketball games from Connecticut to New Hampshire in one day.

Mac’s career included work on the Mass Pike bridges in Warren, Spencer’s Chrysler Dealership, and as Operations Manager for 35 years at Titeflex in Springfield. He joyfully accepted early retirement in 1992, embracing golf, travel, and family life. He proudly celebrated his three documented hole‑in‑ones, a record he never hesitated to mention during family gatherings. Together with Pat, Mac became a 24 year snowbird traveling to Boynton Beach, Florida, enjoying golf leagues, beaches, hosting friends and family and visiting Florida attractions, and dinners at the Banana Boat. Their travels included a cross‑country trip, several cruises, and a memorable journey to Ireland with his sister Ish. Mac attended every wedding, graduation, first communion, birthday, and reunion he was invited to — staying connected brought him tremendous joy. One of his greatest pleasures was Sunday morning “Coffee Talk” with his daughters, grandchildren, and great‑grandchildren — a weekly ritual he cherished deeply. The family extends heartfelt gratitude to our childhood friend Becky Perrin, to the staff of Care Central Hospice, Cedarbrook Village, and Rose Monahan Hospice House for their kindness, compassion, and the comfort they provided to Mac and his family.

Calling hours will be held at Varnum Funeral Home, 42 East Main Street, West Brookfield, on Thursday, August 27, from 5–7 PM. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Friday, August 28, 2026, at 11 AM at St. Carlo Acutis Parish, 10 Milk Street, West Brookfield. In Lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to: Rose Monahan Hospice mail to: VNA Care, Fund Development, 100 Trade Center, Suite G-500, Woburn, MA 01801-1872 508-658-7700 or 617-835-9654 for questions Or email: [email protected]

08/10/2026

Vicki L. Nields

WEST BROOKFIELD: Vicki L. Nields, 77, passed away on Saturday, August 1, 2026, at Quaboag Rehabilitation and Skilled Care Center. She was predeceased by her parents Robert L. and Florence (Wesson) Nields, Sr; her siblings: Robert L. Nields, Jr, Morgan W. Nields and Merrily W. Morgan.

Vicki worked as a horse trainer together with her mother who operated Ragged Hill Stables in West Brookfield for many years.

Services will be private.

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08/05/2026

Paul F.X. LeBeau

July 29, 2026 – North Brookfield and East Brookfield, MA

The family of Paul F.X. LeBeau, 37, is deeply saddened to announce he has departed this earth. Like Elvis, Paul has left the building. He will be fondly remembered for his quick wit, genuine smile and kindness to others.

He was most recently employed by Wheeler Carpentry as a carpenter. He has previously worked for RML Construction in Charton, Bjorkland Landscaping, Varney’s Garage, The Fiddle Center, The General Store, Meat & Spirits Shoppe, and East Brookfield Pizza in East Brookfield.

Many admired and appreciated him for his excellence as a musician in the many bands he was part of. During his 25-year professional career he loved entertaining audiences of all ages. His favorite gig was as the front man (lead singer and guitarist) for his family band, The Big GunZ, comprised of his father on bass and his brother on drums, belting out songs by The Who, The Beatles, The Ramones, and Twisted Sister, etc. Locally he also worked with Wheelsmith, Professor Pop, Raider Eddie & The Skeletones, and Lori Brooks, who made possible his first professional on-stage appearance at the age of 12. He was also occasionally seen as a Hired Gun with The Bad Tickers, Riggagoo, All Folked Up, Crawdad E. Creek, and many others. He hosted many local open-mic sessions over the years, most recently at Shi’s Pub in East Brookfield, where he was known for helping aspiring artists to find the courage to go on stage and give it their best shot. Throughout the Pioneer Valley and Hilltowns of Western Mass. he appeared with Janet Ryan and Straight Up, The Goat Ropers, and Catamount Band. He entertained, delighted, and impressed the audience wherever he performed, whether on guitar, electric bass, or stand-up bass.

He leaves his father, Dennis LeBeau of East Brookfield, his mother, Pamela Ducasse (and her husband, Tom) of North Brookfield, his brother, Thomas LeBeau of East Brookfield, and his beloved and devoted life partner, Megan Michelle Quigley of North Brookfield. He had many uncles, aunts, cousins, and friends, all of whom will miss him dearly.

Calling hours will be held at Varnum’s Funeral Home on Main Street, West Brookfield, on Tuesday, August 11, from 4:00-7:00 PM. The funeral service will be held at East Brookfield Baptist Church, 262 East Main Street, East Brookfield on Wednesday, August 12, at 11:00 AM. Burial will be at a later date, at the convenience of the family.

If you wish to honor Paul in a practical way that would please him, memorial donations may be made to East Brookfield Baptist Church, P.O. Box 690, East Brookfield, MA 01515; to Apple Country Radio Station, P.O. Box K300, Brookfield, MA 01506; to Springfield Rescue Mission, P.O. Box 9045, Springfield, MA 01102-9045; or an animal rescue or charity of your choice.

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08/05/2026

Patricia Ann Shea

Patricia Ann Shea, 84, passed away peacefully on Sunday, August 2, 2026, surrounded by her loving family. She leaves behind her devoted husband of 60 years, Robert D. Shea; her beloved children, Tim Shea of Ware, Brian Shea of Ware, Colleen Hardwick and her husband, Kery, of Northampton, and Robert Shea of Deerfield; her cherished grandson, Brennan Shea of Ware; her sister, Marlene Besheri and her husband, Louie, of Sutton; her niece, Chrissy Venuti and her husband, Andy, of Sutton; her nephew, Michael Beshari and his wife, Angelie; as well as several cousins and many dear friends. She was predeceased by her daughter-in-law, Becky Shea.

Patricia was born in Ware, Massachusetts, the daughter of the late Bryan and Anna McGuirk. She graduated from Hardwick High School in 1958 and went on to attend Anna Maria College in Paxton, where she earned her bachelor’s degree in liberal arts. Patricia met the love of her life, Robert, and the couple married in 1966. They made their home in Ware, where they raised their family and built a life filled with love, laughter, and cherished memories. After her children were grown, Patricia returned to work as a substitute fifth-grade teacher for the Ware Public Schools, a role she enjoyed for many years. She later joined the school district's administrative offices, where she worked until her retirement in 2011.

In their retirement, Patricia and Robert embraced adventure, traveling with family and friends and visiting destinations including Disneyland, Bermuda, Ireland, Cozumel, Cancun, and Niagara Falls. They enjoyed playing cards, participating in Pitch tournaments, and being active members of local clubs and community organizations.

Patricia was an exceptional baker who delighted family and friends with homemade treats and home-cooked meals. Above all, she treasured time spent with her family and loved ones. Her kindness, warmth, and unwavering devotion to those she loved will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

Services will be private. Memorial donations in Patricia's memory may be made to the charity of one's choice.

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08/04/2026

Kevin Quinn

WARREN - Kevin John Quinn, 65, passed away at his home on Saturday, July 25, 2026.

He leaves behind his mother, Barbara (McRoy) Gelinas, and his stepfather, Richard Gelinas; his two beloved sons, Joshua Quinn, Jason Quinn and Jason’s partner Heather DeArcangelis; his cherished grandchildren, Ava Duhamel, Cameron Quinn, Luke Quinn, Myra Quinn, and Zada Quinn; his sister, Karen Trumbull and her husband, Richard; his brother, Scott Quinn and his wife, Debbie; his stepsisters, Melissa Stanley and her husband, Tim, Michelle Donahue and her husband, Joseph, and Sheila Partlow and her husband, Ed; his sons’ mother, Mary Faugno-Wiles; his sister-in-law, Donna Quinn; his daughter-in-law, Jackie Quinn; and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. Kevin is predeceased by his father David J. Quinn, and his brother David S. Quinn.

Kevin was born in Southbridge and raised in Sturbridge. He was a graduate of Tantasqua Regional Vocational High School's Advanced Machine Technology Program. A talented machinist, Kevin dedicated many years of his career to A & M Tool and Design in Southbridge.

An avid outdoorsman, Kevin found great joy in hunting, taking trips to Maine and Virginia, fishing, deep-sea fishing, and ice fishing on Lake Winnipesaukee, where he enjoyed participating in fishing derbies. He enjoyed a good game of backyard badminton and flying kites, he was also passionate about archery and gardening.

Kevin loved sharing his appreciation for the outdoors with his sons and the young people he mentored. As Scoutmaster of Boy Scout Troop 159, he led countless outings and adventures throughout the region. He took great pride in seeing three of his Scouts achieve the rank of Eagle Scout. Kevin also coached Youth 16 Baseball in Brookfield, where he enjoyed the opportunity to coach his sons. In addition to his outdoor pursuits, he was a devoted fan of NASCAR and drag racing, loved listening to classic rock, and taught himself how to play the guitar.

Kevin's kindness, dedication, and love for family, friends, and the outdoors will be remembered by all who knew him. He will be deeply missed and forever cherished. All are invited to Celebrate Kevin’s life on Friday, August 7, 2026. Calling hours are 5-7pm at Varnum Funeral Home, 43 East Main Street, West Brookfield, MA 01585 with a service to begin at 7pm in the funeral home. Burial is private.

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07/29/2026

Melissa Avedian

WEST BROOKFIELD: Melissa A. Avedian, 41, of West Brookfield, Massachusetts, passed away peacefully on July 25, 2026, after a long-term illness. Melissa leaves behind her beloved children, Owen Smith and his partner, Bailey, and their daughter, Mia, all of West Brookfield, and Lillian Orozco of Worcester. She is also survived by her siblings: Lynn Avedian of Leicester; Anthony Avedian and his wife, Shannon, of Auburn; and Meaghan Runyon and her husband, Matthew, of Spencer. She additionally leaves several nieces and nephews who will cherish her memory.

Born in Worcester and raised in Spencer, Melissa was a proud graduate of David Prouty High School. During her illness, she lived with her parents, Susan and Robert Cote, whose loving care and support provided comfort for both Melissa and her children. Melissa attended college while working at Anna Maria College, where she served as Assistant Director of Undergraduate Admissions before taking a leave of absence due to her health. Later, she followed her calling to help others as a hospice home health aide with Laura's Guardian Angels, providing compassionate care to those in need. Melissa had a deep love for animals, especially her dogs. Her kindness and compassion were evident in all aspects of her life, whether helping a turtle safely cross the road or offering encouragement to someone facing difficult circumstances. A talented artist and writer, she expressed her creativity through beautiful drawings, paintings, and written works. She also possessed a strong spiritual faith and found comfort in healing stones and crystals. Melissa was known for giving guardian angels to fellow dialysis patients as reminders that they were loved and never alone. Through the hands she held, the hugs she shared, and the hope she inspired, Melissa touched countless lives. Her quick wit, sense of humor, and unique perspective on life brought smiles to many faces and left lasting memories. To know and love Melissa was truly an honor and a blessing, a sentiment echoed by the many people who accompanied her throughout her journey.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a future date.In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Diabetes Foundation, the National Kidney Foundation, or Second Chance Animal Rescue. Those wishing to honor Melissa's memory may also consider planting a tree in her honor.

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07/28/2026

Joan Ann McDonald

HARDWICK: Joan Ann (Martin) McDonald, of Hardwick, Massachusetts, passed away peacefully on July 24, 2026 in the loving home of her daughter, surrounded by family. Born to Joseph L. Martin and Emily D. (Lacombe) Martin of Ware, Massachusetts, Joan lived a life defined by strength, resilience, kindness, and unwavering love for her family. Joan is survived by her children: Karen Majka, Sharon Long, Darryl Boudreau, Shelley Boudreau, Sherry Gould, Darren Boudreau, and Ricky Boudreau. She also leaves behind 23 grandchildren, 27 great-grandchildren, and 2 great-great-grandchildren. She was predeceased by her husbands, Harold G. Boudreau and Thomas McDonald; her parents, Joseph L. Martin and Emily D. Martin; her sister, Jean A. Perron; her sons, Harold G. Boudreau and Derrick J. Boudreau; her daughter, Cheryl J. Lemoine; her grandson, Jason Berthiaume; her great-grandson, Ryder A. Demers; her great-great-granddaughter, Ella Skye Kline; and her beloved furry companion , Ginger, who held a special place in her heart.

Joan embraced life with passion and determination. She loved traveling, especially her cross-country adventures out West, and looked forward each year to spending winters at her home in Florida. She found peace and fulfillment working in her yard, often tending to it from sunrise until sunset. She enjoyed reading romance novels, creating Native American inspired crafts, painting, horseback riding, and hunting with her boys at hunting camp. Whether she was building, repairing, or creating, there was truly very little Joan couldn't do. She was remarkably resourceful, independent, and never afraid to tackle a challenge herself.

Throughout her career, Joan worked at Diamond National, where she repaired machinery, showcasing her exceptional mechanical ability and work ethic. She later served as the Head Telephone Operator at Belchertown State School, where she dedicated many years before retiring.

Above all, Joan had a generous heart and was always ready to lend a helping hand to her children, grandchildren, friends, or anyone in need. She possessed a rare combination of quiet compassion and fierce determination. Strong-willed, hardworking, and endlessly capable, Joan met life's challenges with courage and grace. Her beauty radiated not only through her smile but through the strength of her character, her resilience.

Joan's legacy lives on through the generations she nurtured, the countless lives she touched, and the enduring memories of a woman whose love, strength, and spirit will never be forgotten. She will be deeply missed and forever cherished.

All are invited to her calling hours on Tuesday, August 4, 2026, from 4-8pm at Charbonneau Funeral Home, 30 Pleasant Street, Ware, MA 01082. Her funeral service is Wednesday, August 5, 2026, at 10:00 am at United Church of Ware, 49 Church Street, Ware, MA 01082 followed by burial in Mt. Carmel Cemetery, Greenwich Road, Ware, MA.

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