Michael Robert Packard of Brockton passed away during the early morning hours of Friday October 3rd. He died peacefully in his home, surrounded by his loving family after fighting a long, brave and courageous battle with stomach cancer.
He is survived by his loving wife of thirty-three years, Melinda Howard Packard (Brockton). He is also survived by his only daughter Karin Marie Packard Paris (Halifax), his two grandchildren Jillian Marie Paris and Jacob Paris also of Halifax, his only sister Deborah Packard Jefferson (Abington), and his niece and goddaughter Carrie Lyn Jefferson Rsaza (Plymouth). He is also survived by a large extended family, which includes aunts, brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nieces and nephews, as well as great nieces and nephews. He was very loved, and is already greatly missed. He will soon be reunited with his late mother Barbara Hynes Packard Juliano (Whitman) and his late father Angelo Juliano also of Whitman.
Michael was born and raised in Whitman and graduated from Whitman Hanson Regional High School in 1966. He was a very smart man; he was even given the nickname "Mr. Math” in high school. After graduation he joined the US Navy. He was a Communication Technician stationed in Morocco during the Vietnam War.
Once back home, he (mostly) made his career as a driver, and had driven truck for Garber Brothers for 20 years. He was later a Bat Bus driver for 12 years. He thoroughly enjoyed his last job before retiring, which was a sightseeing tour guide and trolley driver in Boston.
Michael will be remembered as an incredibly devoted husband, father and grandfather. He was able to hold onto his quick wit right up until his very last days.
Michael was also an avid fan of all Boston sports teams, his favorite being the New England Patriots.
His services will be held Tuesday October 7 at 11 AM in the Blanchard Funeral Chapel, Plymouth Street (Rte. 58 @ the rotary) Whitman. Burial will follow in the St. James Cemetery, Whitman. Visiting hours will be held Monday October 6 from 5-8 PM.
Following his service and internment, all are welcome to a gathering at the VFW in Whitman to celebrate Michael's life.
In lieu of flowers, donations in his name may be made to Hope Hospice, 765 Attucks Lane, Hyannis, MA 02601 or to the Boston VA Healthcare System / Memorial Gift Fund, 940 Belmont Street, Brockton, MA 02301