Joseph Anthony De Louchrey

Joseph Anthony De Louchrey, Jr., age 85, passed away on Friday, November 27, 2020 at Emerson Hospital in Concord, where he was transferred shortly after contracting COVID-19. He died of the virus, with an ICU nurse holding his hand and one of his daughters virtually present. He did not wish to die in a hospital.

Joseph (Joe) was born in Cambridge, Massachusetts on July 22, 1935, the son of the late Joseph Anthony and Elizabeth Lillian (McQueeney) De Louchrey. He was a longtime resident of Westford, MA and a United States Army Veteran. For 57 years, he was the beloved husband of Evelyn M. (Ghioni) De Louchrey. For more than 56 years, he was a beloved father.

Prior to his retirement, he was employed as a railroad clerk for Pennsylvania Truck Lines in Allston, MA for many years. Joe was a very hard worker and held various other jobs, sometimes two or three at a time, to ensure that his family had more than he did growing up.

Joe enjoyed cooking, fishing, tying flies, and bowling, as well as watching classic Westerns and listening to Country music, among other things. He was a passionate fan of the New England sports teams, especially the Celtics. He was also an avid landscaper and his home flourished under his green thumb. His deep, abiding, and mutual affection for animals was evidenced by the many dogs and cats (and more) who graced his home over the decades. Acadia National Park and Cape Cod were among his favorite vacation spots and Hampton Beach was the destination for many family excursions. His greatest joy, however, was time he spent with his family. His children returned for Sunday dinners long after moving away. Because Joe worked so many hours and often missed out on time with his own children, he adored time spent with his grandchildren, who referred to him as "Papa." Their presence renewed him in his retirement years. He was never happier than when he was holding a baby or toddler in his arms. His deep and sonorous voice will be remembered by all, especially those who received a personalized birthday song. His laughter was contagious and his sense of humor will long be treasured. He was never one to complain and maintained his strong and independent character to the end.

Besides his wife, Evelyn, he is survived by his children, Sharon De Louchrey Cronin and her husband, Charles of Harvard, MA, Daniel Joseph De Louchrey and his wife, Lisa of Westford, MA, James Michael De Louchrey of Derry, NH and Brenda Marie De Louchrey of Tyngsborough, MA; his grandchildren, Alexandra, Tristan, Timothy, Christopher, Jeremy and Mathew; a sister, Marilyn (De Louchrey) Ghioni of Norfolk, MA and her late husband Robert Ghioni; also a brother- and sister-in-law, Charles and Lucille Bernyk of Billerica, MA, and many nieces and nephews.

Arrangements - Due to the current gathering restrictions, there will be no services. A celebration of Joseph's life will take place at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations to Feeding America Coronavirus Response Fund (https://www.feedingamerica.org/take-action/coronavirus).