Worcester- Joseph V. Molis, 92, of Worcester, died Tuesday, April 26, in Knollwood Nursing Center.
He leaves his wife of 64 years, Anelle M. (Kurmis) Molis; a daughter, Susan J. Galeucia and her husband Linwood of Bedford, NH; a brother, Walter Molis of Lithuania; two grandchildren, Jill S. Galeucia of Manchester, NH and Michael J. Galeucia and his wife Angela M. of Scarborough, ME; two great grandchildren, Hannah E. Galeucia and Nicholas J. Galeucia, both of Scarborough, ME; a great nephew, Marius Zalieckas of New York. He was predeceased by two brothers and a sister; John, Peter, and Mary. He was born in Worcester, son of Vincent and Elizabeth (Svirskas) Molis and was raised in Barciu Kaimas, Lithuania, moving back here at age 20.
After moving back to Worcester, Mr. Molis was a printer for the American Lietuvys Newspaper. He later was a wire drawer at Johnson Steel & Wire Co., for many years, retiring in 1976. He received a letter of commendation from President John F. Kennedy, for his work in making the wire that was used in the wheels of the Lunar Rover Vehicle, the first vehicle on the Moon, which is now on display at the Smithsonian Institute.
He was a member of St. Casimir Parish for 73 years. He was also a member of the Lithuanian Social Club.
Mr. Molis attended and enjoyed the services, spiritual guidance, and health care at St. Francis Adult Day Health and the Elder Service Plan (PACE program). The family would like to acknowledge the van-drivers, doctors, nurses and aides for the thoughtful and professional care provided to Mr. Molis. His most recent care was provided by the kind staff at the Knollwood Nursing Center.
The funeral will be held Saturday, April 30, from DIRSA-MORIN FUNERAL HOME, 298 Grafton St., with a Mass at 10 a.m. in St. Casimir Church, 41 Providence St. Burial will be in Notre Dame Cemetery. Calling hours are from 5 to 8 p.m. Friday, April 29, in the funeral home. Contributions may be made to St. Francis Adult Day Health, 101 Plantation St., Worcester, MA 01604 or to Elder Service Plan, PACE program, 277 East Mountain St., Worcester, MA 01606.