Worcester—Gleason, Robert S., 71, died Wednesday, June 30, 2004, at UMass Memorial Medical Center, University Campus after a courageous battle with lung cancer. He will be sadly missed by his family and many friends. He leaves his wife of 41 years, Rena (Brighenti) Gleason; and his daughter and son-in-law, Kelly and John Sullivan and his granddaughter Bailey with whom he lived. He also leaves 3 sons, Kris Gleason of Worcester; Kevin Gleason of Charlotte, NC and Keith Gleason and his wife Sharon of Lakeland, FL; his grandchildren, Jamie, Jason, Alicia, Katelynn, and Grace; a brother, Larry Gleason of Boulder, CO; his favorite Aunt Iva of Concord, NH; cousins and many nephews and nieces.
He was born in Boston, son of Gerald and Constance (Sylvester) Gleason. He worked for the US Postal Service in Lee and Springfield for over 30 years. Mr. Gleason was a veteran of the Korean War where he served as a Medic with the U.S. Air Force, and he also served with the Navy Sea Bees MCB 27th Reserves Unit for over 15 years.Mr. Gleason had many interests but his true love was his family, especially his grandchildren.
During the Christmas season he was known far and wide as Santa Claus. For many years, he visited the pediatric unit at the Berkshire Medical Center dressed as Santa. He kept his generous spirit throughout his long battle with cancer.
A Memorial Mass will be held on Thursday, July 8, at 10:00 a.m. at St. Joan of Arc Church, 570 Lincoln St. There are no calling hours. The family asks that flowers be omitted. Memorial contributions can be made to the Carroll Family Fund, c/o Saint Stephens School, 355 Grafton St., Worcester, MA 01604. This fund benefits another family who has been devastated by the loss of a loved one to cancer.