Hattie Mae Dugas Pillar, age 92,of Groton, CT, passed away on May 23, 2012. Her son Jack and his wife Jane Richard Pillar were by her side.
She was born in Norwich, CT on November 9, 1919. Her parents were Frederick and Angelina Dugas. She lived in Taftville and Norwich where she attended school and later worked at several mills including Ponemah mill.
She married John W. Pillar on December 31, 1937. In 1946 she and her husband owned and operated the Norwich Bowling Alley, Roller Rink and Luncheonette on North Main Street. She continued working there until the late 1960's. After moving their residence to Groton, she was employed in 1972 by the Arwood Corp. She worked there until her retirement in 1984.
Raising Bull Dogs at their Ichabod Lord Kennel was a great enjoyment as she loved animals. As an accomplished artist, she created porcelain dolls, teddy bears, hand decorated eggs and did primitive stenciled Theorem paintings. She collected early American furniture and dolls and was a member of the New London Doll Club.
She is survived by her son Jack Pillar and his wife Jane of Mystic, her sister Shirley Dugas Bower, sister-in-law Caroline Kapinos of Norwich, CT and nieces and nephews. She is predeceased by her husband John W. Pillar, parents Frederick and Angelina Benoit Dugas, brother Frederick (Babe) Dugas, sister Lucille Dugas Lamoureux, sister Margaret Dugas Barbarossa, Aunts and Uncles.
Her family will greet friends and family at The Dinoto Funeral Home, 17 Pearl Street, Historic downtown ., Mystic on Tuesday, May 29 from 9am to 9:45am. followed by a Funeral Mass to be celebrated at St. Patrick Church East Main Street, Mystic at 10am. A private burial will take place for family members.
Donations in her memory may be made to the American Cancer Society, 238 West Main Street, Norwich, CT 06360.
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