CLAUDETTE M THUNBERG (BARRIERE)

Claudette (Barriere) Thunberg, 85, passed away at home surrounded by her loving family on Sunday, May 8, 2022. She was born in Worcester, daughter of Joseph A. and Florabelle (Boucher) Barriere. Claudette lived most of her life in Worcester before moving to West Boylston 28 years ago.

Her beloved husband of 48 years, Donald R. Thunberg, passed away in 2005. For Claudette and Don it was love at first sight. The two lived life to the fullest and together planned every step along the way. Don even volunteered to join the army so that they could save enough money to get married and raise a family.

Together, they built their summer home in York Beach brick by brick before building their dream house in West Boylston. Family was always the focal point of their lives. Claudette’s passion was to provide a comfortable, clean, and welcoming home.

Claudette leaves her daughter, Kathleen M. Brooks and husband, Steven of Bowdoin, Maine; her sons, Ronald P. Thunberg and wife Marlene of Dudley, Barry D. Thunberg and wife, Laura of Auburn; seven grandchildren, Brenton Cole, Samantha Kiritsis, Averi Murphy, Caitlin, Travis, Luke, and Lindsey Thunberg; eight great-grandchildren; her sister-in- law “sister,” Judith St. Amand of Worcester; her brother-in-law, Darryl Thunberg and wife, Dorothy Ann of Millbury; as well as many nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her brother, Normand Barriere, daughter-in-law Jane M. (Hodgkins) Thunberg, brother-in- law Robert Thunberg and Thomas Renaldo her loving partner whom she met later in life.

Claudette (Mom) was a graduate of Commerce High School in Worcester and worked for State Mutual before joining Worcester Urological Associates for many years before she retired. She was a faithful member of Our Lady of Good Counsel Church.

Mom loved her summer home in York Beach where every year the entire family gathered on the 4th of July to enjoy the beach, fireworks, a barbeque and walks to “town”. The evening would finish up with candy from the Goldenrod or an ice cream at Browns. Christmas was Moms favorite holiday. She prepared for months buying gifts for every loved family member and friend. She took special care not to overlook the smallest detail and would insist that each present be opened one at a time so that she could see each loved one smile.

Winters in Marco Island surrounded by friends were special times for mom as well. Whether it was a small group enjoying dinner under a tiki hut at Residents Beach or large group taking trips exploring Europe or sailing the Alaskan islands. Mom was always joined by her closest of friends and family.

A special family thank you and blessing goes to Sabina Taylor, our angel and dearly loved friend, who took such great tireless care of Mom in her days of need.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend calling hours from 5 to 7 p.m. on Friday, May 13th in the Miles Funeral Home, 1158 Main Street, Holden. Funeral services for Claudette will be held on Saturday, May 14th with a 10 a.m. Mass of Christian Burial in St. Mary’s Church, 114 Princeton Street, Jefferson. Burial will follow in Worcester County Memorial Park, Paxton.