Francis M. Brothers

"Francis M. Brothers, 73, of Monson passed away on July 30, 2011 after a brief but hard fought battle with cancer. He was surrounded by family at Baystate Medical Center. Francis was affectionately referred to as Babe by those who knew him best. He was born on April 18th, 1938 to Bridget (Kowalczyk) Brothers and Leo Brothers of Three Rivers. In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by his infant sister Blanche, brothers Leo Jr. and Ernie and great-grandchild Emilio. Babe has been a resident of Monson for the last 45 years. He worked at Zeros Manufacturing Corporation for 32 years and at Jarvis & Jarvis in Palmer for 9 years. He retired in 2003. Babe will be fondly remembered and missed by his wife of 53 years, Joan (Plante) Brothers and his children, Darlene Whittemore and husband Daniel, Mark and his wife Susan, Timothy John, Kimberly Kozloski all of Monson, Christi-Jo Brothers of Palmer and April Demetrius and husband Scott of Wales. He will forever be remembered as "Jaj" by his twelve grandchildren, Victoria, Erica, Eric, Gennie, Brad, Brett, Jordan, Samantha, Nickolas, Reid, Emily and Avery and two great-grandchildren, Ella and Theodore. Babe and Joan met at the Old Forest Lake roller rink where they were both skilled skaters. He was referred to as "Pops" by the crew at Adams Supermarket where he visited each morning for the deal of the day and to chat. He loved fishing with his grandchildren and attending their sporting events. He hunted in Wales for many years with his son Mark and good friend and cousin Ronnie Brothers. Babe was a fixture at Aerobics Asylum, where he worked out with his dear friend George Ridz. He loved being outdoors gardening, hunting and foraging for edible mushrooms in the local forests. He had a passion for cooking, baking and experimenting with recipes. He will forever be famous to the family for his irresistible, homemade donuts. He was loved and he will be missed. Calling hours will be held on Friday, Aug. 5th from 4:00-7:00 p.m. at the Beers & Story Palmer Funeral Home, 1475 North Main Street, Palmer, MA. Services are private and burial is at the convenience of the family. The family thanks Dr. Richard Arenas and the excellent ICU nursing staff at Baystate Hospital for their kindness and superb care. In lieu of flowers, those who wish to can make donations to Fr. Flanagan's Boys Town. 58 Flanagan Rd., Portsmouth, RI 02871. "