MARY A. MICKELSON (FREEL)

     Mary A. (Freel) Mickelson, 83, died Thursday, July 9, 2020, at CareOne, Lexington, after a period of declining health.

She is survived by a daughter, Deborah A. Berube, and her husband, Chris, of Ashburnham; a son, Henry E. Mickelson, Jr., and his wife, Leonora, of Hudson; a sister, Christine Ruckdashel, and her husband, John, of New London, WI; a brother, Francis Freel, and his wife, Ginger, of Clinton; five grandchildren: Brian O’Malley, Tyler and Lindsey Berube, and Victoria and Sophia Mickelson; one great-grandchild, Nadine O’Malley; nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her husband of 39 years, Henry E. Mickelson, Sr., who died in 1998, and their daughter, Pamela M. O’Malley, who died in 1983.

Mary was born and raised in Clinton, daughter of Francis T. and Mary (Prye) Freel, and was a life-long resident. She attended local schools, and was a member of the former Our Lady of the Rosary Church.

For many years until retirement, she worked in housekeeping at the International Golf Course, Bolton. Previously, she was employed at the former Aamco Station, Van Brode’s and Myron Mills.

Blessed with the “gift of gab,” Mary could have been the “Mayor of Clinton” – she was beloved by all who had the pleasure to meet her. She greatly enjoyed her daily visits with her “Coffee Crew” friends at John’s Sandwich Shop, taking leisurely car rides, watching movies, horror films, in particular, listening to country music, especially Dolly Parton, Kenny Rogers, and Johnny Cash, and sitting on her porch, drinking coffee, and watching the world go by. An avid shopper, she loved to spoil her grandchildren, and often quipped, “Nana is my name, and shopping is my game!” Above all else, her most cherished times were those spent in the company of her loving family.

Mary’s funeral will be held on Tuesday, July 14, 2020 with a service at 12:00 Noon in the McNally & Watson Funeral Home, 304 Church St. Calling hours will be held on Tuesday, from 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m., prior to the service. In accordance with current guidelines, the use of face masks, and the practice of social distancing, will be required. Burial is private. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that memorial donations be made to the American Heart Association, 300 5th Avenue, Suite 6, Waltham, MA 02451.