John J. Michalski

TEMPLETON - John J. Michalski, 85, born November 27,1924, formerly of 299 Patriots Road, Templeton, a retired newspaper executive, died Sunday, March 28th in the Edith Nourse Rogers VA Hospital, Bedford. His wife, Mildred (Young) Michalski, died in 1995. He leaves a sister, Regina (Michalski) Budzik of Charlestown, NH and other relatives. He was born in Gardner, the son of Joseph and Blanche (Rembisiewski) Michalski. He graduated from Gardner High School in 1943, where he was a record setting captain of its track team. Mr. Michalski, a resident of over 50 years, served on Templeton's Finance and Advisory Board and other civic endeavors. He retired as Vice President of the Athol Daily News in 1990, completing his journalistic career of 50 years. He also served as Advertising Manager of The Gardner News, earlier in his career. He was widely recognized as a learned authority in the collecting of wild mushrooms and teaching mycology to students. During World War II, he served in the 8th Air Force in Europe as a Staff Sergeant combat tail gunner aboard a B-17 Flying Fortress Heavy Bomber. He was shot down three times, the last time he was the sole survivor of his ten man crew. He was captured as a prisoner of war in Germany. During his incarceration, he survived a three month death march during the winter of 1945. His numerous military citations and medals include the Purple Heart with Citation and Air Medal with Citations. For over a half century, he has belonged to numerous Veterans organizations and served as a volunteer patient advocate at Veterans hospitals and nursing homes. At his request, no formal funeral services will be held before or after body donations and cremation. There are no calling hours. His interment will be private in the family gravesite at Pine Grove Cemetery in Templeton. Stone-Ladeau Funeral Home, 343 Central Street, Winchendon is directing arrangements. www.stone-ladeau.com