Ann M. Colonero
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Published in Legacy.com on October 6, 2023
In Loving Memory of Anne Colonero (1951-2023)
Anne ( Belanger) Colonero, aged 72, passed away on October 3, 2023, after bravely battling a motor neuron disease, surrounded by the warmth of her devoted family and cherished friends. She was preceded in death by her loving parents, Frances and Albert J. Belanger, of Whitinsville, MA. Anne is survived by her beloved husband, Christopher Colonero, of Northborough, MA, her son, Joshua Colonero of Westborough, MA, her daughter and son-in-law, Nora and David Wolfe of Clinton Corners, NY, her sister, Mary Hamel of Vero Beach, FL, and her sister and brother-in-law, Francine and Peter R. Schnabel of Victoria, BC.
Anne was not only a devoted wife but also a caring mother, having spent her formative years in Whitinsville, MA, where she cultivated lifelong friendships that remained steadfast until her passing. She held a special place in the Northbridge school system community, dedicating 34 years of her life as an educator. Anne’s journey in education began in 1973 when she graduated from Worcester State College. Even after her retirement in 2014, she continued to impart her wisdom as a substitute teacher.
While Anne was often described by her students and colleagues as a “strict” teacher, it was her unwavering dedication and her knowledge-sharing approach that left an indelible mark on the lives she touched. Many students expressed their heartfelt appreciation for the positive influence she had on their educational journeys.
Anne was a deeply compassionate individual with true Christian values. She extended her kindness by preparing meals for those in need and providing unwavering support to housebound family members during their later years. She also brightened the lives of her isolated and incapacitated colleagues.
Her love for gardening and passion for travel allowed her to explore new places and create cherished memories with her loved ones, all while savoring a glass of wine. Anne possessed a creative talent for painting and displayed an innate sense of style, both in her personal appearance and in the interior design of her homes. Her houses were transformed into beautifully decorated havens, earning admiration from all who visited, akin to Martha Stewart’s finest work.
Anne thrived during the holidays, playing host to family celebrations and faithfully upholding cherished family traditions. Her gift for entertaining ensured that all who crossed her threshold felt a warm welcome and unbridled comfort. Her impeccable manners, instilled in her by her mother, were passed down to her children, ensuring that handwritten thank-you notes and generosity towards those in need became a natural part of their individual character-a rare trait in today’s world.
In September 2022, Anne was diagnosed with ALS, and though her journey was rife with personal pain and difficulties, she made the courageous decision to participate in a Clinical Trial, contributing to the ongoing research efforts aimed at finding a cure for this debilitating disease.
Anne’s legacy will forever endure through her loving family, including her children, of whom she was immensely proud, as well as her husband Chris and sister Francine, who tirelessly cared for her from the moment she received her diagnosis until her final breath. Chris was not only her life partner and best friend but also her steadfast protector and primary caregiver, ensuring her comfort even as the disease progressed rapidly.
Anne’s family plans to honor her memory with a celebration of her life at a later date, opting not to hold formal funeral services. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to the Compassionate Care ALS Association in Falmouth, MA, to support the ongoing battle against this relentless disease. Anne’s impact on all who knew her was immeasurable, and her memory will forever shine brightly in the hearts of those she touched.
