DUDLEY– Joseph Christopher, 76, died Saturday, September 2, at home after an extended illness.
He is survived by his wife of 49 years, Janet (Kasierski) Christopher; his son Joseph and daughter-in-law Eden; his grandchildren Kevin, Julie and Anna; his mother-in-law Lillian Kasierski; a sister-in-law Louise and her husband Bob Lemieux; and his loving cousins Irene Martel and Edna Aniszewski.
He was born in Dudley, the son of Lawrence and Irene (Bloniasz) Christopher and lived here all of his life. He graduated from Bartlett High School, attended Brown University and Springfield College, and received his Masters of Education from Worcester State College. He also served his country in the United States Army from 1953 to 1955.
Mr. Christopher worked for the Dudley School System, and later for the Dudley-Charlton Regional School District. He started his career as a history teacher. In the early 1960's, he became principal of Dudley Junior High School, later Dudley Intermediate School. He served his community there until retiring in 1988.
Joe was an avid golfer, fisherman and lifelong Red Sox fan. He was also a 38 year member of the Webster Lodge of Elks #1466. He loved to spend time with his family and friends and knew no strangers. He loved and was loved by many, and will be missed by all.
The funeral will be held at 11:00 AM Thursday, Sept. 7, in St. Andrew Bobola Church, 54 West Main St. Burial will be in St. Joseph Garden of Peace, Webster. There are no calling hours. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Andrew Bobola Church, 54 West Main St., PO Box 98, Dudley, MA 01571-0098. Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Sitkowski & Malboeuf Funeral Home, 340 School St., Webster.