Barbara J. Gallant
Gallant, Barbara J. (Tricco), much beloved mother, nana, sister, aunt and cousin, passed away peacefully at her home in Tewksbury on February 25, 2013 after a short illness. Daughter of the late Gilbert and Elizabeth (Elliott) Tricco, both from Newfoundland, she was born in Chelsea, MA on January 29, 1933 and graduated from Chelsea High School in 1950. She had a very interesting and full life, working for the telephone company, Eastern Airlines, the Chelsea school system and, lastly, a long stint for The Commonwealth of Massachusetts, from which she retired in 2002. She just recently celebrated her 80th birthday with many of her family members celebrating her life. A devoted mother and grandmother, she was always putting others' interests before her own. She loved spending time with her family, immediate and extended, and her many, many friends, and was always ready to talk and to listen. She always had a positive attitude that impacted the lives of all who knew her well, and her smile, laughter and adventuresome spirit will be sorely missed. She loved to travel, especially enjoying her yearly trip to Newfoundland every summer for the last decade. She was actively involved in Tewksbury Congregational Church's Ladies' Aid group, the Chelsea High School Class of 1950 Reunion Committee, and also enjoyed attending bible studies and women's retreats at Grace Chapel. She had a strong faith in God which carried her through many challenging times. Even during her last weeks, when her health unexpectedly and rapidly declined, she exemplified strength and trust and an uncomplaining, thankful spirit. She always had a smile, kind word or gentle humor for all those who had the privilege of caring for her during these last days. Barbie was predeceased by her brothers Gilbert and Charles Tricco. She is survived by her son Brian with his wife Lori and their children Eric and Emma Gallant of Tewksbury, daughter Amy with her husband Zbynek and their children Richard, Alex, Tanya and Denis Ryzi of Littleton, her brother James Tricco of Pennsylvania, and many beloved nieces, nephews, cousins, and sisters-in-law, both in the United States and Canada. A memorial service, honoring and giving thanks for her life, will be held Sunday, March 10, 2013 at 2:00pm at the Tewksbury Congregational Church, 10 East Street, Tewksbury, MA. Donations in her memory may be made to VNA Hospice Care, 100 TradeCenter, G-500 Woburn, MA 01801 www.hospicecarema.org.