Margaret S Dugas

ATHOL – Margaret S. (Gushen) Dugas, 91 of Athol, passed away Saturday, January 16, 2021 at Quabbin Valley Healthcare, Athol. Margaret was born on March 6, 1929 in Athol to the late Stanley Gushen and the late Antena (Lawsky) Gushen. She grew up in Athol, attended Athol Schools and graduated from Athol High School with the Class of 1947. She continued her education in Boston where she went to secretarial school. At that time, she was dating the love of her life and future husband Armand J. Dugas. Margaret and Armand were married on November 25, 1950. Margaret worked as a court stenographer until she and Armand started their family. As their children grew older, Margaret worked for Cetto Insurance Company. She then started her own typing business from home. Margaret also worked as a seamstress for the former Moskovitz Clothing store. Margaret loved sewing and so she decided to begin her own successful dressmaking shop in her home. A talented seamstress, Margaret made beautiful wedding gowns, dresses and most of her own clothes. She also did many alterations. Margaret loved spending time with her family and through the years enjoyed camping with them. Later in life she and Armand made multiple trips throughout the United States and Canada in their Shadow Cruiser Camper. She brought light and laughter into the world with her contagious smile, endless wit, and wonderful sense of humor. Margaret had a welcoming persona and a twinkle in her eye that made everyone feel comfortable. She could transform a dull situation into a party. Margaret and Armand enjoyed a rich social life and were surrounded by wonderful friends throughout their lives. Margaret is survived by four children: David Dugas and his wife Dianna of Orange, MA; James Dugas of Manchester, NH; Catherine Campbell and her husband Alan of West Brookfield, MA; Michael Dugas and his wife Laura of Stow; MA. She was the beloved grandmother to Jason, Sara and Hannah Dugas, and was great grandmother to Jackson Erali. She was predeceased by her husband of 69 years, Armand in 2019, as well as by her sister Marion Laing of Fullerton, California in 2020. Calling hours will be Monday January 25th from 9:30 am to 10:30 am at Fiske-Murphy & Mack Funeral Home, 110 New Athol Rd, Orange. All are welcome to join the family at the graveside service and burial at 11:00 am at Gethsemane Cemetery, Daniel Shays Highway, Athol. A larger gathering will take place later this summer for those concerned about the current pandemic to enjoy a celebration of Armand and Margaret’s wonderful life. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Margaret’s name may be made to Quabbin Valley Healthcare, 821 Daniel Shays Hwy, Athol, MA or to the Athol Fire Department C/O Chief Guarnera, 2251 Main St. Athol, MA. To leave an online condolence, please visit www.mackfamilyfh.com. Fiske-Murphy & Mack Funeral Home, 110 New Athol Rd. Orange is assisting with arrangements.