Beverly A. (Melanson) Lange, 66, of Rutland, passed away at home, on Saturday, February 17, 2007, after a courageous 5 year battle with cancer.

She was born in Leominster, daughter of Clarence and Odile (Stebbins) Melanson. She leaves her husband of 40 years, Gerard O. Lange; three sons, Michael and his wife Lynn of Charlton, Stephen of Barre, Andrew of Rutland; a daughter, Susan Sidoti and her husband Samuel of Rutland; three brothers, Norman and Paul of Leominster, Roger of Lancaster; a sister, Jeannette StYves of Leominster; seven grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews. In addition to her parents, a brother, Robert and a sister, Doris Mangiacotti predeceased her, along with her brothers – the first triplets born in New England – Charles, Raymond, and Francis, who all lived for less than three months.

Beverly retired as a mental retardation worker for the State of Massachusetts, working in Rutland. She was an EMT for the Town of Rutland for 15 years, and a police matron for the past 17 years. She was also on the board of directors for Central Mass Onstage. An active member of St. Patrick’s Church, she served as chair of the Bereavement Committee, co-chairman of the annual Turkey Social, on the parish council, and served as a Eucharistic minister. A gifted singer, she was a long time member of the parish choir, and soloist at various church celebrations.

The funeral Mass for Beverly will be held at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, February 20, in St. Patrick’s Church, 290 Main St., Rutland. Burial will follow in Worcester County Memorial Park, Paxton. Calling hours are from 5 to 8 p.m. on Monday, February 19, in the Miles Funeral Home, 1158 Main St., Holden. Donations in her memory may be made to St. Patrick’s Church, P.O. Box 939, Rutland, MA 01543; or to VNA Care Hospice, 120 Thomas St., Worcester, MA 01608-1280.