Jack R. Sullivan

"Bondsville - John R. "Jack" Sullivan, 78, died peacefully at home with his family by his side on Sunday, September 7 following a long, hard-fought, courageous battle with cancer. Born October 6, 1935 in Palmer, he was the son of John R. and Frances Catherine (Wheeler) Sullivan. He grew up in South Belchertown, and has lived in Bondsville for 52 years. Jack began his career in public service when he joined the National Guard in 1952. After 3 years with Company "B" 104th Infantry, he was granted an honorable discharge. He then became a member of the operating engineers union, Local 98, retiring in 1993. His many interests and loves in life included his 31 acre family farm, most recently known as "Sullie's Vegetable Farm" which was integral to his family's life. He was also a proud and dedicated firefighter. Jack dedicated 35 years to the Bondsville Fire Dept, the last 25 of which were as the "Chief". He was devoted to training, education, and updating equipment to provide quality service to his community. He was instrumental in the building of the present fire station, which opened in 1992. A favorite past time was pitch tournaments at St. Joe's and he participated in every one. He was also a member of the Swift River Sportsman's Club and St. Mary's Lyceum. He was an avid supporter and fan of the Boston Red Sox and New England Patriots. Additionally he enjoyed hunting and fishing, and had a certain knack with four legged creatures. At the core of his life was his family and he will be deeply missed by his wife of 54 years, Janet (Stedt) Sullivan and his 4 children, Pamela Sullivan-Fishman and husband Allen of Foxboro, Kevin J. Sullivan of Belchertown, Colleen Sullivan of Philadelphia, PA, and John R. Sullivan, Jr. and Shannon of Belchertown, as well as a brother, Michael Sullivan of Belchertown. Additionally, he leaves his 9 precious grandchildren, Sarah, Hannah and Trevor Fishman, and Madison, Ryan, Andrew, Tyler, Angelina, and Victoria Sullivan. Besides his parents, he was predeceased by his beloved sister, Nina Place. There will be a family procession on Thursday, September 11 with Fire Dept. honors from Beers & Story Palmer Funeral Home to the Second Congregational Church. Friends are invited to meet directly at the church, 1080 Pleasant St. at 11:00 a.m. for a funeral ceremony to remember and honor his life. Burial will follow in Pine Grove Cemetery, Warren. Calling hours will be Wednesday from 4:00 - 7:00 at the Funeral Home, 1475 N. Main St, (Rte 20). For those wishing, please make contributions in his memory to Bondsville Playground, PO Box 53, Bondsville, MA 01009, or Bondsville Fire Dept Box 1071, Bondsville, 01009. The family wishes to express their sincere gratitude to his hospice nurse, Mamie Flowers, who assisted the family with professionalism, compassion and grace. "