Maxine M. McGuirk

Maxine B. (Tatro) McGuirk, 80, formerly of 59 Cottage St., Athol, died peacefully Wednesday evening in Quabbin Valley Healthcare in Athol after a long illness. She was born in Athol February 19, 1924, daughter of the late Leon and B. Myrtle (Burgess) Tatro and lived here all of her life. Her husband, C. Reginald McGuirk died in 1992. For many years, Mrs. McGuirk was employed with the United States Postal Service in Athol and was our community's first female letter carrier. She had also been employed with the former J. F. McElwain Shoe Shop and in the Dairy Department of the former First National Store. She was a very active member of St. Francis of Assisi Church in Athol and volunteered at the Athol Public Library. She enjoyed reading, going to the beach, walking, animals and children. She is survived by one daughter Barbara A. North of Athol, one brother George Tatro of Georgia, one sister Julia Young of Florida, four grandchildren Gail Brow, Tracy LaRose and Pamela Shinkle, all of Athol and Robert North of Maryland; Five great grandchildren Sarah Shinkle, Emily Shinkle, William LaRose and Thomas LaRose, all of Athol and Gabrielle North of Maryland. She was predeceased by two sisters, Ruth Joslyn and Dora Benson and one great granddaughter, Meagan Shinkle. Relatives and friends are invited to attend the funeral from J. EDWARD MURPHY FUNERAL HOME, 137 Main St., Athol, Monday at 10:30 AM followed by a Funeral Mass in St. Francis of Assisi Church, Athol at 11:30 AM. Burial will be in Silver Lake Cemetery, Athol. Calling hours at the funeral home are from 7-9 PM Sunday. Contributions in her memory may be made to the Alzheimer's Association, Massachusetts Chapter, Worcester Senior Center, 128 Providence St., Worcester, MA 01604-5413 or to the Athol Animal Shelter, c/o Athol Police Department, 584 Main St., Athol, MA 01331. For directions to the funeral home or to sign the online guest book, visit our website at www.murphysfuneralhome.com. Arrangements are by J. Edward Murphy Funeral Home, Athol. $(document).ready(function(){ });