Leo J. Janssens

ASHBURNHAM - Leo J. Janssens, 83, of 60 Corey Hill Road, Ashburnham died peacefully Thursday evening, September 9th in Legend Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, Gardner, with his family at his side. He was born in Somerville on March 24, 1927, the son of the late Edward and Flora (Beane) Janssens and had lived in Ashburnham for 57 years. Leo was a shipper for 24 years at the former Kelley Brothers and later worked for more than 20 years as a paper maker at James River Paper Company in Fitchburg. He attended Gardner High School and then proudly served his country in the United States Army. Leo was a veteran of both World War Two and the Korean War. He was long time member of American Legion Post 142 in Ashburnham. He enjoyed landscaping but found his greatest enjoyment from spending time with his family. He leaves his wife of 58 years, Gleanore M. "Red" (LaFortune) Janssens; two children, Carla L. Jalbert and her husband Fernand of Gardner and Leo J. Janssens 2nd and his wife Maribeth of Ashburnham; a sister, Flora Zarozinski of Gardner and two brothers, Frederick Janssens and his wife Mary of Moreno Valley, CA and Neil Janssens and his wife Judi of Gardner; five grandchildren, Kristina Sullivan, Gary Jalbert, Alisha Jalbert, Shawn Janssens and Jacob Janssens; six great grandchildren, Nicholas Sullivan, Dillon Jalbert, Corey Jalbert, Keegan Jalbert, Samantha Masone and Kingston Aker and several nephews and nieces. Leo was predeceased by two sisters, Rose Patria and Marie Fred and a brother, Edward Janssens Jr. Private funeral services and burial will be held in the Massachusetts Veterans' Memorial Cemetery, 111 Glenallen Street, Winchendon. There are no calling hours. Memorial donations may be made to the Gordon C. Erickson Memorial Ambulance Fund, 99 Central Street, Ashburnham, MA. 01430. Stone-Ladeau Funeral Home, 343 Central Street, Winchendon is directing arrangements. www.stone-ladeau.com