Marlene M. (Nosek) Manca, a woman whose life was a testament to the power of family and friendship, passed away peacefully at her home on July 28, 2024. Born Marlene Nosek in Winchendon, Massachusetts, on July 25, 1932, she was the daughter of Adolph Nosek and Elizabeth (Smith-Nosek) Shields. Marlene spent the majority of her married life in Templeton, Massachusetts, alongside her devoted husband, Anthony (Tony) J. Manca. Their marriage on June 17, 1950, marked the beginning of 64 years of shared love and companionship.
Marlene dedicated her life to creating a warm and nurturing home for her five children. While primarily a homemaker, she also contributed to the family income through home-based businesses like Artex, Dutchmaid, and Fullerbrush, showcasing her entrepreneurial spirit and dedication. Her life’s focus was undeniably her family, which extended far beyond her immediate household to encompass relatives and friends across numerous states, from Maine to Florida, California, and even Alaska.
One of Marlene’s most remarkable gifts was her ability to connect with people. She possessed a genuine warmth that allowed her to strike up conversations effortlessly, making anyone she met feel instantly comfortable and valued. If you were fortunate enough to be a friend of one of her children, including John Manca, you were welcomed into the Manca family with open arms. Marlene had an unwavering belief in the inherent goodness of people, often saying, “Everyone has a bit of good in them,” and she lived by this philosophy, becoming a mother figure to many.
Her kindness manifested in countless ways. Many were touched by her handwritten letters, where she managed to convey so much care and detail in her distinctive, tiny script. Her famous pineapple squares were a much-anticipated treat, lovingly prepared for any occasion, big or small. Marlene was generous with her time, always ready to lend an ear or offer advice, whether solicited or not. Known for her directness, she ensured everyone knew exactly where they stood, a quality appreciated for its honesty and sincerity.
A woman of faith, Marlene was a devoted member of Holy Cross Church, actively participating in the Rosary Sodality and enjoying the camaraderie of the Red Hats society. Her hobbies reflected her creative and social nature. She loved to sew, engage in crafts, read, and challenge herself with puzzles. Thursday nights were reserved for bingo with her cherished bingo friends, a testament to her enjoyment of community and lighthearted fun. Another favorite pastime was dining out, where she applied her discerning palate, offering critiques that rivaled professional food critics.
Christmas held a special place in Marlene’s heart, a time filled with cherished family traditions. The annual singing of “Happy Birthday” to baby Jesus, with the youngest grandchild or great-grandchild given the honor of blowing out the candle, was a highlight. The Christmas Eve gnocchi preparation and the excitement of Santa’s visit for the younger children created lasting memories. Marlene’s radiant smile on Christmas Eve truly encapsulated the joy she found in her family. Her home was a haven for her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, equipped with kid magnets, a pool, basketball hoop, pool table, and foosball table – all designed to encourage family gatherings. However, it was her inherent kindness and compassionate nature, her genuine “Nana” affection, that truly drew them back time and time again.
Marlene’s selfless nature extended to sharing her faith in Jesus Christ with her family, further enriching their lives with spiritual guidance and love.
Marlene is deeply mourned by her five children: Michael A. Manca of Phillipston, David C. Manca of East Templeton, Gena M. Hentnik of Gardner, John A. Manca of Baldwinville, and Antonette M. Gauvin of Templeton. She was a loving mother-in-law to Nancy Manca, Pat Manca, John Hentnik, Catherine Manca, and Dan Gauvin. Her legacy continues through her 12 grandchildren: Brandi M. Manca, Anthony P. Manca, John E. Manca, Rebecca A. Mexico, Lindsey M. Smith, Peter A. Manca, Rose E. Guitare, Marcy L. Manca, Edward J. Hentnik, Alex A. Hentnik, Jayson M. Gauvin, and Jesse D. Gauvin. She also leaves behind 17 great-grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews. Marlene was predeceased by her beloved husband Anthony, her sisters Kay Cosentino, Charlotte Smart, and Sandy Bourbeau, and her brothers Billy Nosek and Adolph Nosek.
Friends and relatives are invited to celebrate Marlene’s life during visiting hours at Mack Family Funeral Home, 105 Central St., Gardner, on Sunday, August 4, 2024, from 2-6 pm.
A funeral mass will be held in her honor on Monday, August 5, 2024, at 10:00 AM at Holy Cross Church, 25 Lake Ave., East Templeton. Attendees are kindly requested to meet directly at the church on Monday morning. Burial will follow at St. John’s Cemetery, Gardner.
For those wishing to honor Marlene’s memory, donations can be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital (262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN 38105 or www.stjude.org), Shriners Hospitals for Children (51 Blossom St., Boston, MA 02114 or www.shrinerschildrens.org), Holy Cross Church (25 Lake Ave. Templeton, MA 01468), or to a charity of your choice.
To share an online condolence, please visit Marlene’s obituary page at www.mackfamilyfh.com.
Arrangements are under the direction of Mack Family Funeral Home, 105 Central St., Gardner. Funeral Directors: Kevin J. Mack, Walter C. Taylor, Melissa A. McQuaid.
