Arthur R. Granger, of Millbury, and Lido Beach, Florida, passed away Sunday, May 9, 2010 with his family by his side, in the University of Massachusetts Hospital after a brief illness.

    Arthur is survived by his devoted wife and partner of 44 years, Dorothy A. (Gould) Granger; his two children, Denise A. Granger of Webster, and Kevin A. Granger and his companion Tina Yanczewski of Millbury; two cherished grandchildren, Nicholas A. Granger of Millbury and Kayla A. Granger of Charlton; three sisters, Carol A. Gamble of Brookfield, Nancy M. Dion of Worcester and Mary D. Laramee of Auburn; a brother, Thomas J. Granger of Sturbridge; many nieces, nephews, numerous loving cousins, aunts, uncles and friends. Arthur was born on May 4th 1943 in Worcester, his parents were the late George R. and Katherine M. (Michalak) Granger. He grew up in Shrewsbury joined the U.S. Coast Guard to serve his country from 1961 to 1966, aboard USCG Lightships as far as Japan; One of his proudest moments was marching with the U.S. Coast Guard at the Kennedy Inaugural Parade and his saddest was marching in honor of the first soldiers killed in Vietnam. He was so proud of his service to his country. Arthur and his family moved to Millbury in 1983 and spent more than 30 winters with his wife and children enjoying the beauty of Lido Beach, FL and the company of his many friends. His greatest joy was being with people. He was a true family man.

    Arthur was a licensed Master Plumber and Pipe Fitter; He owned and operated Granger Plumbing for over 35 years before retiring. He also served as Gas Inspector for the Town of Sutton. He successfully bought, rehabilitated and sold many real estate properties.

    Arthur was a volunteer. He donated many hours of his time as a dedicated case reviewer for the MA Dept of Child and Family Services. His opinions and common sense were highly regarded by the department. He also used his professional training to make Brierly Pond Condominiums a better place for all residents.

    Arthur's humor, energy, generosity and friendship will be greatly missed by the multitude of family and friends in Millbury, Worcester, Sarasota Florida and many other states.

    Arthur's enjoyments include bowling, gardening, dining out and oil painting. But nothing made him happier than attending their children's and grandchildren's sports events or celebrating their birthdays and academics successes.

    Friends and relatives are invited to visit with the family, Thursday, May 13th from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m in the MERCADANTE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL, 370 Plantation St. His funeral will be held Friday, May 14th from the funeral home with a Mass at 11:00 a.m in Holy Family Parish, St Joseph Church, Hamilton St. Worcester. Burial will follow in Worcester County Memorial Park in Paxton. Flowers may be sent or memorial contributions made to Veterans Inc, 60 Salisbury St. Worcester 01608.