Daniel O. Gross

ATHOL- Daniel O. Gross, 81, of Athol passed away on Tuesday, October 30, 2018. He was born on December 4, 1936 in Memphis, Tennessee to Virgil & Marvelene (Osborne) Gross. Daniel grew up in Athol and graduated from Athol High School in 1954 and from Tilton Prep School in 1955. He attended Mt. Wachusett Community College in 1971 and Clark University in 1972, receiving his Bachelor of Science Degree. He then went onto Fitchburg State College, receiving his Masters in Education in 1974, Master of Arts at Anna Maria College in Counseling Psychology in 1975 and also received his certificate of Advanced Graduate Studies from Anna Maria in 1979. He was employed by the L.S. Starrett Company from 1958 until 1971, owned and operated Pequoig Fire Arms Company from 1957 until 1970 and worked for Pinkerton Security Service from 1972 until 1974. Daniel then worked at the Winchendon Prep School from 1973 until 1979 where he set up programs for students with learning disabilities and also did diagnostic testing. In 1979 he went to work for the Templeton Development Center where he worked as a psychologist, retiring as Principal Psychologist in 2000. Daniel was Interim President of the Massachusetts Nurses’ Association and State Chapter of House Care for Professionals. He was a member of the Athol Congregational Church, past president of the former Athol-Orange Jaycee’s, also serving as past state president. He was a life-long member of the Athol Woodsman and Rifle Club, the Quabbin Snowmobile Club, life member of the National Rifle Association, Life member of the Mystic Seaport in Connecticut, National Geographic Society, member and past president of the Athol Lions Club, member of the North Quabbin Lodge of Masons A.F. and A.M., and served as past master with the Athol and Star Athol Lodges. Dan was also an avid reader of mysteries and enjoyed traveling and sailing. He is survived by his former wife and dear friend, Janice Gross. A service will be held on Tuesday, November 13, 2018 at 1pm at the Athol Congregational Church 1225 Chestnut St. Athol. Burial will be private. To send an online condolence please visit www.mackfamilyfh@gmail.com Higgins O’Connor Funeral Home, 146 Main St. Athol is assisting with arrangements.