Douglas R. “Doug” Letendre, 80, of 377 Elm Street, Gardner and formerly of Spencer, MA, died unexpectedly Monday, March 28, 2011 in his residence.
Born in Spencer, MA on January 27, 1931, he was the son of the late Leo and Stella (Tataronis) Letendre.
Prior to retiring, Doug was a client care worker employed by the Devereux Foundation in Rutland, MA.
Doug had a passion for horses. In his younger days, he was an accomplished driver and trainer for trotters. He raced in Foxboro, MA, Rockingham, NH and Hinsdale, NH was a member of the U.S. Trotters Association.
Doug leaves two daughters, Donna Cardinale and her significant other John Hedlund of North Brookfield and Darlene Boulette of Warren; one sister, Linda Mandella of Spencer; two sisters-in-law, Tina Letendre of Spencer and Elizabeth Letendre-Flory of East Brookfield; five grandchildren, eleven great-grandchildren. He also leaves a close friend, who was like a step-daughter, Traci Burdick of Leominster and her daughter, Rachel. He was predeceased by four brothers, Norman, Leo, Edward and William Letendre and by one brother-in-law, Nicholas Mandella.
A private Graveside Service will be held at the convenience of the family.
There are no calling hours. Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society, New England Division, 30 Speen Street, Framingham, MA 01701. Boucher Funeral Home, Inc., 110 Nichols Street, Gardner is handling the arrangements.