John E. Tamulen
October 19, 1958 — January 3, 2017
GARDNER – John E. Tamulen, 58 of 150 Lovewell Street, Gardner, died peacefully in his sleep, at his residence, Tuesday, January 3, 2017.
He was born in Gardner on October 19, 1958, the son of the late Edward W. and Ruth S. Tamulen. John was a 1976 graduate of Gardner High School, He later received an Associate's Degree in Human Services in 2004 from Mount Wachusett Community College and added several courses since then.
John was a Professional Photographer for 20 years before becoming a para-educator at Mountachusett Regional Vocational Technical School. In between, he worked in Human Services for three years and taught photography to students and senior citizens through the LIFE courses at Mount Wachusett Community College.
John was a member of the Chestnut Street United Methodist Church and a member of the Greater Gardner Community Choir in Gardner and was a long time member of the Class of GHS 1976 reunion committee.
His love for nature, music, and gardening brought him much happiness throughout his life. He was an avid hiker at Mount Watatic, Mount Wachusett, Mount Monadnock and many area trails. Fall was his favorite time of the year. John had a passion for splitting cordwood, walking the trails and beaches of Southern Maine, and collecting unique glassware. His favorite book was "The Fall of Freddie the Leaf" by Leo Buscaglia and enjoyed literature, movies, and poetry. He shared stages including Theater at the Mount in Gardner and The Stratton Players in Fitchburg. Food was another passion to prepare at home with onions, horseradish and most favorite, garlic.
He leaves two daughters, April Joy Tamulen, of Pontiac, Illinois; Karin Ann Hart and her husband Brian and granddaughter, Adalyn Ekorre of Templeton; one sister, Nancy Morgan and husband, James of Wells, ME; one brother, James Tamulen and wife Dolores of Gardner; and nephews. He also leaves several cousins and many long-time dear friends and neighbors. An aunt, Lillian Stacy of Niskayuna, NY, predeceased him.
A memorial service will be held Monday, January 9, 2017 at 11 A.M. in Stone-Ladeau Funeral Home, 343 Central Street, Winchendon. The Rev. Nancy Allen will officiate. A calling hour will precede the service from 10 to 11 A.M. Monday in the funeral home.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Chestnut Street United Methodist Church, 161 Chestnut Street, Gardner, MA. 01440 or Montachusett Veterans Outreach Center, 268 Central Street, Suite A, Gardner, Mass. 01440.
www.stone-ladeau.com