Beverly Ann (O’Leske) Erlandson, 81, of Lams Grove, died Monday, Sept. 1 at her home, after living with Alzheimer’s disease for 17 years.

She leaves her beloved fiancé and caregiver, Phil Laukaitus, three daughter Kim Johanson of Ariz., Karen Johanson of MA, and Keri Allard and her husband Art of NY, a grandson Mark Leighton and his wife Sheryl of RI, a brother Chet O’Leske of FL, a sister Carol Waymire of CA, and her former husband Richard Johanson of Worcester. She is predeceased by her parents, Chet and Lou (Como) O’Leske, in 1991 and 1992, her late husband Raymond Erlandson in 1991, and a grandson Derek Leighton in 2010.

Beverly was born in Worcester on Sept. 3, 1933 and graduated from Commerce High in 1951, where she was the class pianist, vocalist and composer. She was a stay-at-home mom until 1969. She then worked as an executive assistant for the Dean of students at Assumption College, after which she worked at Worcester Polytechnic Institute until her early retirement in 1990. Beverly had a life-long passion for music, and was an accomplished pianist and soprano. She was a member of the Worcester Chorus, Friendship Singers and the choir at First Baptist Church of Worcester, all of which featured her as guest soloist on a regular basis. She also was an accomplished ballroom dancer, something she enjoyed until she no longer could move unassisted.

During the week Beverly attended the health care program at Summit Elder Care in Charlton, a PACE adult day health center. Summit staff provided consistent outstanding and compassionate care to her for nearly six years. Since her diagnosis of Alzheimer’s at the young age of 63, Beverly has been unconditionally loved, cherished and cared for by her long-time love, Phil Laukaitis. His unfailing tenderness and dedication to Beverly allowed her to continue living with him until she peacefully passed away.

The funeral will be held Friday, Sept. 5 at 10:00 AM in J. HENRI MORIN & SON FUNERAL HOME, 23 Maple Terr., Spencer. Burial will follow in Worcester County Memorial Park, Paxton. Calling hours are Thursday, Sept. 4 from 5:00-7:00 PM. In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made to Alzheimer’s Association
of MA/NH, 480 Pleasant Street, Watertown, MA 02472.