Gladys M. (Peterson) Levangie 91 years young, a lifelong resident of Whitman, died Thursday March 17 at Good Samaritan Medical Center after a brief illness. She was the widow of Donald A. Bates, and the beloved wife of the late Stephen A. Levangie.
Gladys was born and raised in Whitman. She was the daughter of the late Leon and Grace (Stinchfield) Peterson. Gladys was also the sister of the late Marion Oliver, Ethel Kelly, Ruth Coonan, and Andrew (Uncle Bud) Peterson.
She was a graduate of Whitman High School, Class of 1942. She volunteered for many years as the Treasurer of the Memorial Field in Whitman in conjunction with her late husband Donald.
As a young woman, Gladys worked at the Whitman Shank Shop and as the mother to her 5 daughters. After the death of her late husband Donald, she took on the challenge of single motherhood and worked many years at King’s Department Store in Brockton. She also worked at Foxboro Company in East Bridgewater until her retirement.
Gladys spent many years supporting the work of Bill W. and Dr. Bob. Gladys and her late husband, Steve, spent many hours in the company of their good friends Charlie and Edwina Martin as well as many other friends from the various groups they attended. Gladys continued to make new friends within those groups until her death.
Gladys was most proud of her accomplishments in relation to her family. Gladys is survived by her 5 daughters, Marion G. Nordin, Donna M. Smith, Lynn M. Badger-Oriani, Tracy J. Sloane, and Marie E. Bates-Forth and their spouses/significant others. Gladys also leaves a legacy of 19 grandchildren, 21 great-grandchildren (with her 22nd great–grandchild expected in April). Gladys was blessed to also have 2 great-great grandchildren. Gladys is also survived by countless, nieces, nephews and their extended families.
Her funeral services will be held Tuesday March 22 at 12 PM in the Blanchard Funeral Chapel, Plymouth Street (Rte. 58 @ the rotary) Whitman. Burial will follow in Colebrook Cemetery, Whitman. Visiting hours will be held prior to the service from 10 AM – 12 PM.