…Retired Mass Nat’l Guard Sergeant Major; 73
WESTFORD - Theodore R. “Ted” Thing, age 73, died Thursday, June 1, at Southern N.H. Medical Center after a courageous battle with Cancer beginning last October. He was a resident of Westford, but from a well known Tewksbury family, and was an active sportsman and volunteer.
He was born in Lowell in August 1943, one of two children of the late Leroy “Red” and Celia A. (Fantini) Thing, and raised and educated in Tewksbury schools. He went on to graduate Keith Academy in Lowell.
He was enlisted in the Massachusetts Army National Guard, where he served for thirty-nine years, and was honorably discharged at the rank of Sergeant Major. He was awarded numerous Medals and Ribbons during his remarkable tour of duty.
He was a recent Past Commander of the Tyngsborough American Legion Post 247, and in his spare time, worked tirelessly for Disabled and disadvantaged Veterans, volunteering monthly to serve meals. He was also an active member of the Tyngsborough Sportsmen’s Club.
He leaves his companion, Richard F. Haley of Westford; his beloved sister, Anita Kopacz of Tewksbury; a nephew, Richard and his wife Erica Kopacz of Tewksbury; a grand nephew and niece, Nicole and Tyler of Tewksbruy; numerous cousins and dear friends throughout the Merrimack Valley and beyond.
Visiting hours Sunday, June 4, from 2:00 until 5:00 in the Tewksbury Funeral Home, corner of 1 Dewey and 975 Main Sts. (Rte. 38) TEWKSBURY CENTER, Ph. (800 in MA or 978) 851 2950. His funeral will begin Monday, June 5, at 9:00 a.m. from the funeral home followed by a Funeral Mass at 10:00 a.m. in St. William’s Church, 1351 Main St. (Rte. 38) Tewksbury. Burial with Army Honors will be in Tewksbury Cemetery. Memorials to the Salvation Army, 150 Appleton St., Lowell, MA 01852 or the Veterans charity of donor’s choice, will be appreciated. tewksburyfuneralhome.com