Abington – Francis G. Messier, Jr. 92, a resident of Abington for over 65 years, died Friday June 15 after a period of failing health. He was the beloved husband of 68 years to Wilhelmina (Ward) Messier.
Born and raised in Brockton he was the son of the late Francis G. and Katherine (Ryan) Messier and a graduate of Brockton High Class of 1937.
He was a proud Veteran of the US Navy having served during World War II from 1943-1945.
Before his retirement he had worked for 40 years as a pasteurizer of ice cream for the former Howard Johnson Ice Cream Company of Brockton.
He enjoyed bowling and participated in local leagues. He loved the challenge of a good cribbage game and was an avid Red Sox fan. He truly liked being outdoors especially fishing or as a familiar face sitting on his front porch.
In addition to his wife Wilhelmina he is survived by his loving children Richard Messier of Duxbury, Joyce Ludington of Florida, Barbara Rosenthal of Vermont, Patricia Louis of Hanson, Judy Lavoie of Maine and Ann MacKenzie of Middleboro. He is also survived by his sister Ruth Perry of West Bridgewater as well as 12 grandchildren, 10 great grandchildren and several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his sister Kathryn Palopoli and his granddaughter Dennise Messier.
Donations in his name may be made to the American Lung Association of NE, 460 Totten Pond Road / Suite 400, Waltham, MA 02451
His funeral service will be held Wednesday June 20 at 10 AM in the Blanchard Funeral Chapel (Rte. 58 @ the rotary) Whitman. Burial will follow in the Mt. Vernon Cemetery, Abington. Visiting hours will be held Tuesday June 19 from 4–8 PM