Carl R. Stoddard, Jr., 58, died at home in Spencer on May 7 after a
2 1/2 year struggle with colorectal cancer. The most important thing in his
life was his family and friends. He brought them all together in a special
way. He created such a strong bond; his presence will be felt for years and
years to come. Carl leaves his wife of 39 years, Lynne (Aho), his daughter
Erika Stoddard, her husband Warren Baughman and their daughter Bailey Carlyn
of Scarborough, Maine, and his daughter Erin Stoddard and her life partner
Kristen Howe of New York City and Los Angeles. He is also survived by his
sister Caryn Stoddard and her husband Paul Brodmerkle of Berlin, MA and his
sister Claudia Elguero and her husband Oscar Elguero of Hampden, MA, 7
nieces and nephews: Shannen Delude, Carlos Elguero, Sergio Elguero, Mariel
Elguero, and Liana Elguero, and 2 great nephews: Jarred Delude and Jeremy
Delude. Carl was predeceased by his parents, Carl and Constance Stoddard.
In addition to his family, he leaves his closest friend, Gary Suter, who was
at his side from diagnosis of his cancer to his death. He also leaves "the
best dog in the whole world", Petey.
Carl was a company man and the company was Coca-Cola. He started
part-time as a reload boy. He worked there for 37 years, rising through the
ranks to the position of Director of Organizational Development. He retired
in 2004. Shortly thereafter, he was diagnosed with Stage IV rectal cancer.
A lifelong musician his love of music was infectious. He began to play
the guitar when he was a young teenager. He was a member of "The Kodels",
"Group Therapy" and "Stone Wood" in the 60's and "Class Reunion" from
2006-2007. His last gig was a fundraiser for colorectal cancer prevention
that netted $30,000 for the Mass. General Hospital Cancer Center. One of
his happiest moments was playing the first time for his granddaughter,
Bailey. She reacted the same way that his daughters had, with awe,
enchantment and a huge smile.
Carl will long be remembered for his ready smile and hearty laugh. He
loved life and lived it to the fullest. His one regret was not realizing
the importance of a colonoscopy after the age of 50. His fatal disease was
preventable. This message has resonated with his family and friends. Now,
after his death, his last wish was that this lesson be heeded by others as
well.
Memorial calling hours will be held on Friday, May 11 from 5:00-8:00 PM
in the J. HENRI MORIN & SON FUNERAL HOME, 23 Maple Terr., Spencer, MA.
Funeral services and burial will be private. In lieu of flowers,
contributions may be made to the Spencer Rescue Squad, P.O. Box 147,
Spencer, MA 01562.