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George L. Emond Jr.
October 7, 1942 – May 4, 2026
George L. Emond Jr., 83, of Lunenburg, passed away on May 4, 2026, after a long struggle with the cognitive and physical challenges of dementia. On that day, he joyfully reunited with his beloved wife, Carol (Cardinal) Emond, who predeceased him on December 15, 2024.
Born at Fitchburg General Hospital, George was the eldest of two children of the late George L. Emond Sr. and Victoria “Vickie” (Brissette) Emond. He grew up in Leominster and after marrying Carol, settled in Lunenburg, where they raised their two daughters, Colleen and Bonnie, and where he lived for 60 years.
As a young man, George proudly served in the U.S. Army, receiving an honorable discharge in 1963. He studied color chemistry and worked for many years as a colorist with several companies in central Massachusetts before changing paths in the 1980s to pursue automobile sales. George worked first for North End Subaru and Salvadore Saab, then found his “forever home” with the Chapdelaine family at Chapdelaine Truck Center in Lunenburg, where he remained until his retirement at age 75. He was a respected sales consultant known for his deep product knowledge, integrity, and genuine dedication to his customers.
George was also deeply involved in his community. He served for many years on the Lunenburg Historical Society and, most notably, on the Lunenburg Board of Health and the Nashoba Associated Boards of Health. His 34 years of service—many as chair of both boards—reflected his unwavering commitment to the health and welfare of his community. He retired from these roles in May 2025 due to illness.
George and Carol shared many passions over their six decades together. In their younger years, they enjoyed square dancing, with George serving as the caller for the “Backward Squares” club in Ashburnham. They were also enthusiastic members of the Lunenburg Rod and Gun Club and avid campers, spending countless weekends exploring New England. Their trailer eventually found a permanent home at Camp Tidewater in Hampton, New Hampshire, their cherished retreat by the sea.
George was an avid reader and a lifelong learner. He even dabbled in writing—privately penning cowboy westerns—and was fascinated by computer technology. In the early days of Microsoft, he served as a beta tester and became the unofficial tech expert for family and colleagues alike, keeping their computers running smoothly.
Known for his charm,good humor,and gift of gab, George never met a stranger. Even in his final days, his warmth and wit were undiminished as he reflected fondly on a life well-lived and the many people who enriched it.
George is survived by his daughters Colleen LeBlanc and husband Steve of Leominster, and Bonnie Cordio and husband Mark of Fitchburg; his sister Shirley Whittet and her life partner Joe Marrone of Plum Island; grandchildren Elizabeth Lough and husband Chad, Andrew Blake, Evan Blake and wife Lauren, Mark Cordio II, Curtis Cordio; and great-granddaughter Lilah Lough. He also leaves several nieces, nephews, and great-nieces and nephews.
Colleen and Bonnie extend heartfelt gratitude to the owners and staff of The French Connection of Gardner for their compassionate care of George following Carol’s passing, and to the team at Sterling Village Nursing Home, where George spent his final months surrounded by kindness. Special thanks also go to Brenda, Betty, and Mary of Autumn Hospice, whose care and advocacy brought comfort through his final year.
In keeping with George’s wishes, there will be no services. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his memory to the Dementia Society of America at dementiasociety.org.