John P. Villnave, 89, of Holden, died Sunday, March 26, 2006 in his home in the loving care of his family.

His wife of 61 years, Elva R. (Jacques) Villnave, died in 2002. His son, John D. Villnave, died in 1983. He leaves four daughters, Kathleen wife of Alfred Bavosi of West Boylston, Donna wife of Daniel Edmonds of Warwick, R.I., Maryellen Smith of West Boylston, and Carol wife of Peter Johnson of Stow; a sister, Mary D. Russell of Chester, Mass.; 16 grandchildren including Jessica Smith, who lived with her grandfather; 17 great-grandchildren; nephews and nieces.

He was born in Hartford, son of Edward J. and Mary C. (McDonald) Villnave, and lived in Worcester before moving to Holden 54 years ago. He attended St. John’s High School, then in Worcester.

Mr. Villnave was an Army veteran of World War II, serving in the European Theater from Normandy to Germany. He was a truck driver for 45 years for Normand’s City Truck Freightways, before retiring.

He was a member of the International Brotherhood of Teamsters, Local 170, and St. George’s Parish.

He enjoyed reading, gardening and travel. He was an avid sports fan with a special interest in football and baseball. Most important to him was his family and the happiness that connected them.