Joseph R. Battelle

Joseph R. Battelle, Jr., 70, of Chelmsford passed away Thursday, October 18.

He leaves two daughters, Jennifer Battelle of Chelmsford and Renee Gallagher and her husband, William of Reading; five grandchildren, Nora, Grace, Gabrielle, Owen and Brendan; his former wife, Mary (Hanley) Battelle of Reading; four sisters, Margaret M. Battelle of Provincetown, Catherine M. Gilbert of Columbia, CT, Elizabeth A. Manach of Brewster and Patricia A. Dineen of Leicester and nieces and nephews. He was born in Worcester son of Joseph R. "Bunny" and Marjorie N. (Eager) Battelle and graduated from Saint Peter's High School and Worcester Industrial Technical Institute.

Joe was the founder, owner and operator of Battelle Opticians on Grafton Street for over 20 years, retiring several years ago. He was a member of the Knights of Columbus and Saint John's Church. Joe was a true die hard New England Sports fan and in his earlier years enjoyed golfing. His friends and family meant the world to him and he took great pride in the ability to make them laugh in any situation with his great wit and humor. He was a dedicated father, but most of all had a tremendous love for his grandchildren.

A Funeral will be held October 27 from Callahan Fay Caswell Funeral Home, 61 Myrtle St. with a Mass at 11am in Saint John's Church, 40 Temple St. Burial will be private in St. John's Cemetery. Visiting Hours are October 26 from 4:00 to 7:00 at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to St. John's Food Pantry, 40 Temple St., Worcester, 01604.