FRANKLIN: Katherine R. Weir, Shirley A. Palermo

Katherin R Weir

Katherin R. (McCardle) Weir, 94, of Upton passed away peacefully on Thursday, August 29, 2024 at her home. She was the beloved wife of Colin B. Weir who deceased in 2014.

Born in Mount Pleasant, Ohio on May 11, 1930, she was the daughter of the late Arthur C. McCardle and Pearl (Wilson) McCardle of West Virginia.

Mrs. Weir was a resident of Franklin, MA since 1973 and relocated to Upton, MA in July 2020. Prior to living in Franklin, she resided in West Virginia then Buffalo, NY where she met her husband Colin at a hockey game that she and her girlfriends attended. The two married in Buffalo on June 20, 1959.

Katherin loved high school and was involved in many activities such as the Drama Club, Cheerleading, Music Club, and Basketball, to name a few. She enjoyed acting and appeared in many drama productions during her high-school years.

After graduating from high school, she embarked on a rewarding journey in the dental field, working at a dental laboratory. This experience ignited her desire to deepen her knowledge and skills, leading her to pursue a college education and complete a Dental Assistant Training program, ultimately earning her Associates Degree. Throughout her twenties, she worked as a Certified Dental Assistant, making a meaningful impact on the lives of her patients.

Her dedication extended beyond her professional life, as she became an active member of the American Dental Assistant Association. This involvement allowed her to engage in numerous charity events, where her compassionate spirit shone brightly. One of the most heartwarming aspects of her journey was her time spent visiting Children’s Hospitals where she brought joy and comfort to young patients by reading stories and playing games, creating moments of happiness and connection during challenging times.

In 1960, the birth of her son, David S. Weir, marked a significant transition in her life. Embracing the role of a full-time homemaker, she balanced her passion for service and family values with grace.

Katherin had an unwavering passion for organizing social and fundraising events for the Franklin Federated Church in Franklin, MA. Here, she held numerous vital roles throughout the years, including Deacon, Greeter, Usher, and Holiday Decorating Chairperson. She served on several committees including the Nominating Committee for Officers, Senior Tea and Lunches Committee, and Warm Puppies Fundraising Group. She and her husband were active members and volunteers for the church for many years organizing fundraising events such as the Annual Harvest Dinner, Murder Mystery Dinners, and Rummage Sales.

Along with her devotion to her church, Katherin enjoyed assisting her husband with his many woodworking projects. She loved spending quality time with family and her grandchildren. Highlights included pumpkin and apple picking, ice skating, backyard playtime, holiday celebrations, and birthday parties.

She is survived by her son, David S. Weir and his wife Cynthia A. Weir of Upton, her two grandchildren, Alicia M. (Weir) Berkowicz and her husband Ryan Berkowicz of Northbridge and Erica L. Weir of Blackstone, her two great-grandchildren, Gemma Berkowicz and Charlotte Berkowicz, and her brother-in-law, Lawrence W. Weir and his wife Elizabeth Weir of Rochester, NY, and many nieces and nephews in both New York and West Virginia.

A memorial service will take place at 11:00am on Saturday, September 28 at the Ginley Funeral Home, 131 Main Street, Franklin, MA (ginleyfuneralhomes.com).

Shirley A. Palermo

Shirley A. (Mastromatto) Palermo 86, of Franklin, passed away peacefully, Thursday September 26, 2024 at Countryside Healthcare in Milford, following a brief illness. She was the beloved wife of the late James A. "Jim" Palermo.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend her funeral Tuesday October 1st, at 9AM from the Charles F. Oteri and Son Franklin Funeral Home 33 Cottage St. followed by a funeral Mass in St. Mary's Church, Franklin at 10AM.

Burial will follow at the parish cemetery.

A complete obituary will follow.

Guestbook www.oterifuneralhome.com