Worcester: Catherine R. White (Merrick) passed away peacefully on Friday, October 17th a week before her 89th birthday, after a long struggle with Alzheimer’s disease. She was born in Newark, NJ the daughter of John and Catherine (DeCourcy) Merrick on October 29, 1919. Her beloved husband of 48 years, Gordon T. White, died in 1992.
She is survived by her three children; a son Paul G. White and his life partner Richard Barisano of Newtonville, a daughter Donna M. Cooper of Worcester, and daughter Marcia A. Gusha and her husband James of Rutland, five grandchildren, Jessica Birenbach of Vermont, Jeremy Cooper of Leominster, Lori Gamache, Thomas and Christopher Gusha all of Rutland. Three great grandchildren: Jacob Birenbach, Lucas and Rylee Gamache. Three sister in-laws, several nieces and a nephew.
Catherine graduated from Commerce High School and worked many years in retail and in various secretarial positions. She was a long time (20 years) volunteer for the American Red Cross, the RSVP program and U-Mass Memorial Hospital, Hahnemann Campus. She enjoyed painting and spending time with family at her trailer at York Beach, Maine.
Relatives and friends wishing to visit with the family are invited to attend calling hours Monday, October 20th between 5 and 8 p.m. at Nordgren Memorial Chapel, 300 Lincoln St. Worcester., MA. A funeral service will be held on Tuesday, October 21st, 10 a.m. at the funeral home. Burial will immediately follow at Mount Vernon Cemetery, West Boylston, MA.
The family is grateful that she is finally at peace and wishes to express their sincerest gratitude to all of the caring staff at the Hermitage Nursing Home of Worcester, and to the staff of Aseracare Hospice of Marlboro.
Flowers may be sent or donations may be made to the American Red Cross, Central Mass Chapter Headquarters, 2000 Century Dr., West Boylston, MA 01583. For directions and on-line guestbook please visit NordgrenMemorialChapel.com.