Joseph “Joe” Gralenski, 78, of Orange, Massachusetts passed away on Saturday, December 25, 2021 in UMASS Memorial Medical Center University Campus in Worcester, Massachusetts.
Joe was born in Palmer, Massachusetts and grew up in Three Rivers Village in the town of Palmer. He was a 1960 graduate of Palmer High School, graduating as class Valedictorian. He went on to attend UMASS Amherst where he majored in education, becoming a Junior High School teacher in Palmer, until his retirement. While teaching, he was actively involved in coaching track and field. Joe enjoyed staying physically fit his entire life, and always challenged himself physically. He enjoyed continuing to learn new things, looking up facts and researching information, offering a wealth of knowledge to others. He loved different genres of music, going to yard sales, and visiting consignment stores. Joe was always on the go.
Joe was also a vital part of the Richmond Community United Methodist Church in Richmond, New Hampshire where he served as Liturgist and assisted in different ways. His positive attitude and willingness to help others was a true blessing, along with his quick witted sense of humor that brought joy and laughter. Joe was always giving of himself.
Mr. Gralenski is survived by his son Steve Gralenski of Ocala, Florida; a daughter, Andrea Rankin of England, brother David Gralenski of Palmer, Massachusetts; Sister Maria Kofton of Milbury, Massachusetts, numerous grandchildren, nieces and nephews; and his best friend and companion Julia Desreuisseau. His parents Joseph Frank Gralenski and Maria (Zbylot) Gralenski, predeceased him, along with numerous aunts and uncles, and his brother-in-law Edward G. Kofton.
A Celebration of Life will be held at the Richmond Community United Methodist Church, located at 11 Fitzwilliam Road in Richmond, New Hampshire on December 31, 2021 at 10:30 AM. Masks are required.
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