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The Swellesley Report

Since 2005: More than you really want to know about Wellesley, Mass.

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Obituary: Stanley S. Treitman, 50-year Wellesley resident who taught science, ran business & gave back to community

February 23, 2025 by admin

Stanley S. TreitmanStanley S. Treitman died of natural causes at the age of 98 on February 18, 2025 at NewBridge on the Charles Senior Living in Dedham. He is survived by his loving wife and life partner of 76 years, Ruth, and his four children, Rick, Bob, Beth, and Jim.

Born in Los Angeles to Sigmund and Celia Treitman, Stan attended LA public schools and served in the Navy as a radio technician in the Philippines during the closing period of World War II. Upon his return, he enrolled at UCLA where he met Ruth. After UCLA he did graduate work at Cal Berkeley, before returning to Southern California to teach high school science in Colton.

Stan was an early member of the Physical Sciences Study Committee (PSSC) and helped develop a new method of hands-on science physics education. Before he implemented PSSC at Colton High, a handful of students studied physics – within a few years, five full sections of students enthusiastically enrolled in his classes. In 1965 Stan joined a USAID/Harvard project to implement PSSC at a model secondary school in Nigeria, where the family lived for two years.

Upon returning to The States, Stan taught in the science department at Wheelock College. The family moved to Wellesley where Stan and Ruth lived for over 50 years. In 1982, Stan and Ruth, who taught math at Dana Hall, left the world of education and went into business, opening a retail software store in Burlington. Stan, Ruth, Jim, and later Rick and Bob, built Softpro into a successful software and technical bookstore.

Upon retirement in 2005, Stan continued to share his technical and accounting expertise in his numerous volunteer positions. He served Wellesley Weston Lifelong Learning and the Friendly Aid Society. He was a board member and VP/Membership Chair of The Jewish Genealogical Society of Greater Boston who honored him in 2018 for his outstanding contributions building their database and communications technology. Ruth and Stan were among the founders of Wellesley Neighbors where they published the newsletter, built the web site, and took part in many of the activities – particularly the jazz concerts.

Ruth and Stan spent summers on Newfound Lake in New Hampshire for many years where the family gathered and many of their grandchildren learned to swim. The lake house continues to host memories for those Stan leaves behind.

In 2018, they moved from Wellesley to NewBridge on the Charles, where they joined old friends and made new ones. They were regulars at the evening concerts and lectures for many years. For many NBOC computer users, Stan was the help desk, and he used his expertise at page layout for newsletters for multiple organizations including NBOC publications.

In addition to the love of his life, Ruth, Stan leaves behind his children Rick (Louise) of Lexington, Bob (Leslie Fisher) of Concord, Beth (Michael) Paysnick of Longmeadow, and Jim (Chris Garlasco) of Golden, Colorado. He also leaves nine grandchildren, Sarah Paysnick, Annie Treitman, David Paysnick, Kate Brown, Amy Paysnick, Jo Hogan, Lauren Treitman, Olivia Treitman, and Rachel Treitman, and nine great grandchildren.

The family thanks his caregivers, Dianne Wilks, Pearl Cashman, and Vida Atakpo, and hospice nurses who worked hard to keep Stan comfortable and at peace in his final days.

A service in his memory will be held at NewBridge on the Charles at 2pm on March 30.

Donations in Stan’s memory can be made to the Wellesley Food Pantry (wellesleyfoodpantry.org/) or the Newbridge Employees’ Scholarship Fund.

For more information, see https://brezniakfuneraldirectors.com/obituaries


 

If you’d like us to run a complete obituary of your loved one on Swellesley, please send to theswellesleyreport@gmail.com

Filed Under: Obituaries & remembrances

     

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Obituary: Joseph A. LeBrun, longtime patriarch of The Linden Store Delicatessen

February 10, 2025 by admin

Joseph Albert LeBrun, longtime resident of Wellesley and formerly of Newton, passed away unexpectedly on February 9, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.

Joseph LeBrun
Joseph A. LeBrun

Proprietor of The Linden Store in Wellesley, where he was always one to listen to anyone who wanted to tell a story, as well as spinning many tales himself. If you knew Joe, you would know his dedication to The Linden Store and all it took to run: parking attendant, social director and overall “roll up your sleeves and get to work.

Born April 4, 1941 to the late Joseph R. LeBrun and the late Blanche R. LeBrun. Beloved husband of Bonnie L. (Chabot) LeBrun. Devoted father of J. Gregory LeBrun and his wife, Kerin of Natick and Mark LeBrun of Wellesley. Loving grampa of Bella, Ryan, Abby, Kaitlyn, Lindsey and Max LeBrun. Dear brother of Elizabeth “Betty” Burnell and her husband, Mike and the late Joan LeBrun. Treasured uncle of Elissa Burnell McGee; and her daughters; and Diana Burnell.

There was no fiercer, loyal or more dedicated warrior, leader, provider, friend or family man. His love for his family was immeasurable and second to none. He will be missed by not only his family, but by the community he adored.

Visiting Hours will be held at the George F. Doherty & Sons Funeral Home, 477 Washington St. (Rt.16), WELLESLEY, on Thursday, February 13, from 4-7pm. A Funeral Mass will be held in St. John the Evangelist Church, 9 Glen Rd., Wellesley Hills, on Friday, February 14, at 11am. Relatives and friends are kindly invited. Interment in Woodlawn Cemetery, Wellesley.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that gifts be made to support the Renal Department at Brigham and Women’s Hospital. Checks can be made payable to Brigham and Women’s Hospital with “in memory of Joe LeBrun” in the memo line and sent to Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Development Office, 263 Huntington Avenue, #318, Boston, MA 02115-4506 or visit bwhgiving.org/memorial to make your gift online. Online guestbook at gfdoherty.com George F. Doherty & Sons Wellesley 781-235-4100


 

If you’d like us to run a complete obituary of your loved one on Swellesley, please send to theswellesleyreport@gmail.com

Filed Under: Obituaries & remembrances

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Wellesley obituaries, February 2025

Recent passings of current or former Wellesley residents:
  • Sister Maureen SC Beale (Feb. 27)
  • Wendy Alison Horn (Feb. 20)
  • Carol O’Brien (Feb. 16)
  • Dominic “Paul” DiMaggio, Jr. (Feb. 15)
  • Joseph S. Breitfelder (Feb. 15)
  • Joan Dibert Caryl (Feb.14)
  • Ann (Bacon) Murphy (Feb. 10)
  • Joseph A. LeBrun (Feb. 9)
  • Paul A. “Paul Monte”Tagliamonte (Feb. 9)
  • William “Bill” Carlyle Caryl (Feb. 2)

If you’d like us to run a complete obituary of your loved one on Swellesley, please send to theswellesleyreport@gmail.com

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Obituary: Charlotte Harrington (1944-2025)

January 25, 2025 by admin

Charlotte Harrington, a beloved mother and grandmother, and cornerstone of her family, passed away peacefully on January 14, 2025, surrounded by the love of those she cherished most.

Charlotte HarringtonBorn on May 30, 1944, Charlotte lived a life shaped by her deep devotion to family, her friends, and her faith. Her warmth and her unwavering kindness were her hallmarks. Charlotte was a graduate of the Bancroft School in Worcester, MA, where she was an active alumni supporter, and later Katherine Gibbs School in Boston, MA. In 1967, Charlotte married Francis A. “Skip” Harrington Jr., and together they built a life centered on love and family. They moved to Wellesley to raise their four sons: Fred, Steve, Parker, and Jonathan. Charlotte poured her heart and soul into creating a home where laughter, love, and support were ever-present. She dedicated herself to her sons, inspiring them to follow their dreams and ensuring they always knew they had a steadfast supporter in her. Charlotte’s family continued to grow, bringing her immeasurable joy.

She is survived by three of her four sons: Fred and his wife, Alanna, of Holliston, MA; Parker and his wife, Kelly, of Westwood, MA; and Jonathan and his wife, Jessamy, of Wellesley, MA. She is also survived by Adam Wright of Providence, RI, the husband of her late son Steve, who passed away in 2009. Steve remained forever in her heart, his memory a source of comfort and inspiration to all who loved him. Charlotte’s love extended to her eight cherished grandchildren: Jackson, Cailin, Charlotte, Emily, Julia, Riley, Elizabeth, and Lucy, each of whom she adored and celebrated with pride. Her grandchildren will always remember her as their biggest cheerleader, offering hugs, advice, high 5’s, and unconditional love. Charlotte’s home was a sanctuary, where countless family gatherings filled with stories, laughter, and her delicious meals brought everyone together. She had a special talent for making everyone feel valued and appreciated, leaving behind a legacy of love and connection. Her memory will live on through her children and grandchildren as well as the countless lives she touched with her compassion and generosity.

Beyond family, Charlotte was an active and devoted member of P.E.O., a philanthropic women’s educational organization, where she generously hosted her ‘sisters’ at her ‘Bed and Breakfast’, earning her recognition as the top contributor to their scholarship fund. Charlotte’s faith was also central to her life. She served the Village Congregational Church in Wellesley with dedication, including as Moderator, giving generously both her time and resources to strengthen its mission and community.

A celebration of Charlotte’s life will be held at The Wellesley Village Church on Saturday, February 8th at 2PM. In lieu of flowers, and to honor Charlotte’s legacy of giving and compassion, please consider a donation to PEOInternational.org


 

If you’d like us to run a complete obituary of your loved one on Swellesley, please send to theswellesleyreport@gmail.com

Filed Under: Obituaries & remembrances

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Obituary: Barbara Borkum Weinstock, former Wellesley resident became active in Arkansas civic life

January 24, 2025 by admin

Barbara Borkum Weinstock, 89, passed away peacefully on Sunday, January 12, 2025, at St. Bernard’s Medical Center in Jonesboro, after an active and well-lived life. Barbara’s legacy is one of deep familial and community bonds, as well as service in the non-profit, private, and public sectors of Arkansas life.

Barbara Borkum WeinstockBarbara was born on Valentine’s Day 1935, in Boston, Massachusetts. She married Bernard I. (Bud) Weinstock in 1956, and they remained together for 49 years until his death in 2005. She was also preceded in death by her parents, David N. and Anna Borkum of Newton, Massachusetts, and a sister, Phyllis Benware, of Tampa, Florida.

Barbara came to Arkansas somewhat reluctantly in 1970 when Bud’s role in the shoe industry brought them from Wellesley, Massachusetts to Jonesboro. Although the initial contrast between the bustle of the Boston area and the slower pace of a small southern city was dramatic, Barbara immersed herself in the community and soon could not imagine living anywhere else. Her degree in Political Science from Brandeis University foreshadowed stints as President of the League of Women Voters at city and state levels, and eleven terms as a Justice of the Peace on the Craighead County Quorum Court.

Over 22 years as an elected official, fellow justices and three county judges recognized Barbara as an independent voice of reason, always advocating for her constituents. In addition to her expertise in county business, Barbara had the happy duty of performing over 800 wedding ceremonies.

In addition to her affinity for politics, Barbara’s endeavors included both the creative and the charitable. She was a co-owner of The Added Touch, an upscale accessories store in Birchwood Square, and Cottages to Castles, a local interior design firm. Her support for the arts included her involvement with the Forum, serving on the Forum Commission and then President of Friends of the Forum. Her charitable affiliations include the United Way of Northeast Arkansas where she served on the Board of Directors for 22 years and the Craighead County Community Foundation where she served as Executive Director from 2001 until 2020. Temple Israel selected Barbara as the President of its Sisterhood from 1980 through 2005 and she also served on their Board of Directors as Treasurer from 1991 through 2014.

Other highlights of Barbara’s commitment to civic life are her inclusion in the book, Behold Our Works Were Good! as one of 100 Arkansas women selected by the Press Women of Arkansas. Barbara was appointed to the Arkansas Women’s History Institute as a Founding Member by Governor Bill Clinton. Barbara represented Arkansas as a delegate to the International Women’s Conference in Houston, Texas. She received the prestigious Jane B. Mendel Tikkun Olam Award (repairing the world) from the Jewish Federation of Arkansas in 2007.

Survivors are her son, Howard L. and Rhodora K. Weinstock and their sons, Daniel (Sosha) Weinstock, Max (Tara) Weinstock, Kenneth (Hannah) Weinstock, Ryan (Seth) Weinstock and Mark (Brittany) Gowarty-Weinstock; son Michael A. and Sue Weinstock and their sons, Stephen (Katie) Weinstock and Matt (Emily) Weinstock; son Robert M. and Rebecca Weinstock and their children Jessica (Derek) Paredes and Nathan Weinstock; and daughter Lisa W. and Tony Sagely and their daughters Sarah and Spencer (Evan) Strobel. Also surviving are eleven great grandchildren: Lukas, Nollie, Landon, Colsen, Hudson, Henry, Syla, Riley, and Ivy Weinstock and Siena and Juliana Paredes.

A private graveside funeral will remember Barbara in the presence of her loving family. In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to the Barbara Weinstock Charitable Endowment at the Craighead County Community Foundation, 407 Union St., Jonesboro, AR 72401.

Online registry: www.emersonfuneralhome.com


 

If you’d like us to run a complete obituary of your loved one on Swellesley, please send to theswellesleyreport@gmail.com

Filed Under: Obituaries & remembrances

Rotary Club, Taste of Wellesley

Wellesley, Mass., obituaries, January 2025

Recent passings of current or former Wellesley residents:
  • M. Louisa B. Hunnewell (Jan. 31)
  • Charlotte Harrington (Jan. 14)
  • Maxwell J. Gruber (Jan. 14)
  • Barbara Borkum Weinstock (Jan. 12)
  • Arthur MacBride Love, Jr. (Jan. 9)
  • George West Johnston (Jan. 3)
  • Walter Woods (Jan. 2, at age 106)

If you’d like us to run a complete obituary of your loved one on Swellesley, please send to theswellesleyreport@gmail.com

National Day of Mourning for President Carter—what’s open, closed

January 9, 2025 by Deborah Brown

Wellesley, and other places, is observing a National Day of Mourning today to honor President Jimmy Carter, who died at age 100 on Dec. 29, 2024. Carter’s official state funeral will be held on Thursday, Jan. 9, at 10am, at the Washington National Cathedral.

The US Postal Service will not deliver mail, and the Wellesley Square, Hills, and Babson post offices are closed.

post office closed
Wellesley Square post office notice

The stock market is closed. We checked in with a couple of Wellesley banks, and they were open.

Schools, local government offices, and state offices are open.

Flags are flying at half-staff.


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Filed Under: Holidays, Obituaries & remembrances

Obituary: Ellen A. Gagnon, longtime Wellesley resident and volunteer

January 8, 2025 by admin

Ellen A. Gagnon (Dec. 31, 1935 – Dec. 18, 2024)

 

Ellen A. Gagnon
Ellen A. Gagnon

Ellen A. (McBurney) Gagnon, 88, of Venice, Florida passed away peacefully on Wednesday, December 18, 2024. She was the beloved wife of the late Ernest J Gagnon for 64 years.

Ellen retired as an Executive Vice President of the Wellesley Co-Operative Bank. She was involved with the Wellesley Chamber of Commerce. She also was a very active member of the Rotary Club of Wellesley serving as President for a one year term. Ellen was also involved in many town activities in Wellesley and numerous clubs in Venice, serving as Treasurer for the golf league in Venice. She also did fundraising for Children’s Hospital Boston, Department of Cardiology.

Ellen was born in Wellesley, Massachusetts and lived most of her life there. She spent the last 20 years in Venice, Florida. She was pre deceased by her parents, Arthur William and Jane (Graham) McBurney, her brother John McBurney and sister Jane M. Thomas. She is survived by her son Daniel Gagnon of Concord, New Hampshire; daughter Cheryl Dosdall (Jeff) of Wellesley Massachusetts; son Francis Gagnon (Barbara) of Natick Massachusetts; daughter, Catherine Smith of Dudley, Massachusetts; grandchildren, Robert (Samira), Krystel, Andrew (Laura), Laura (John), Ashley, Michael and Christian; and 10 great grandchildren; Isaiah, Elijah, Ryan, Dylan, Layla, Grayson, Everleigh, Shane, Sydney, Jackson and Cameron and many nieces and nephews. She had a great love and appreciation for all.

Ellen had many interests that she shared with family and friends. She loved traveling out west with her husband and friends on motorcycles. She even drove a three wheeled motorcycle in the Wellesley parade. Ellen also loved golf especially here in Venice with friends and family. She also enjoyed the concerts and many activities here in Bay Indies. She really enjoyed playing cards with her friends in the Wednesday night card group. In her downtime, Ellen was an avid reader, liked to crochet and do her puzzles. She had a subtle sense of humor with a mischievous grin.

Services to be announced at a later date. Donations can be directed to: Tidewell Hospice, 5955 Rand Blvd., Sarasota, FL 34238 or Boston Children’s Hospital, Department of Cardiology, 300 Longwood Ave, Boston, MA 02115.

To share a memory or to send a condolence to the family visit www.farleyfuneralhome.com.

Filed Under: Obituaries & remembrances

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