Jean Ann Labuz

"Jean A. Labuz, a long time resident of Palmer, Massachusetts, died at the Hospice House in Auburn, Maine, on April 9, 2010. She was 89 years old. Born in Ware, Massachusetts, Jean was the daughter of Felix and Anelia Petrowicz. After graduating from Ware High School, Jean continued her studies at the former Bridgewater State Teacher’s College and took business courses in New York City. In her 40’s, Jean decided to take courses at Mt. Holyoke College where she most enjoyed literature classes. An avid reader, she was particularly fond of the novels of Jane Austin and Edith Wharton. In her youth, Jean did social work for the Soldier’s Relief Organization. She was also selected to direct the commissary in Ware, Palmer, and Belchertown. After World War II, Jean moved with her husband, Dr. Charles Labuz, DMD, to his hometown, Palmer, so that he could practice dentistry and serve his community. For several years, Jean applied her skills and compassion in various areas. She was president of the Palmer Women’s Club. She was also treasurer and president of the Visiting Nurse’s Association. She also volunteered services at the Palmer Nursing Home. Finally, Jean also enjoyed being a substitute teacher in the Palmer school system for 6 years. Jean was predeceased by her husband, Charles, in 1990, after a marriage of 49 years. She was also predeceased by her siblings: her brother, Edward Petrowicz; and her sisters, Stephanie Stagg, Nellie Nowak, and Phyllis Humphreys. She leaves her beloved daughter, Deborah Edwards and her husband, Raymond; her loving grandsons, Nathaniel, Ethan, Stefan, and James Kuritz, and her special, loving niece, Marilyn Longtine. She will be dearly missed by these family members, as well as nieces and nephews and two dear friends, Sandra Branciforte and Jean’s devoted, lifetime friend, Pearl Scharrett. The family would like to thank Clover Living Center in Auburn, Maine, for its attentive medical care of Jean and regular communication with the family. Deborah; her sons; and her husband, Ray, would also like to thank the Hospice House in Auburn, Maine, for providing a peaceful, caring, and supportive transition for Jean. The wake for Jean Labuz will be held at Beers and Story Funeral Home in Palmer, Massachusetts, on April 16 from 5:00 to 7:00 PM . A funeral is scheduled at Beers and Story on April 17, 2010 at 9:15 AM , followed by a 10:00 AM mass at St. Thomas Church with interment to follow at St. Thomas Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the American Lung Association (www.lungusa.org) or The Alzheimer’s Organization (www.alz.org). "