Gladys M. Grande

Gladys M. Grande, 89, died peacefully on Wednesday, January 24. She is now home in Heaven and reunited with her beloved husband John Grande. Gladys was born in Queens, NY to the late David and Gladys (Hauck) Belinfante.

Gladys lived a remarkable and fulfilling life, leaving behind cherished memories that will forever be etched in our hearts. Together with her husband John, they embraced life’s adventures with passion and joy. Whether on skis or bikes, traveling was a shared love, exploring the world hand in hand, creating memories that spanned continents and cultures.

Gladys loved both skiing and tennis, and even coached the Tennis Team at Minnechaug Regional High School in Wilbraham, MA and she was a Ski Instructor with John at the Butternut Ski Area in Great Barrington, MA. She also enjoyed cycling, hiking, camping, traveling and spending time with family and friends at the family lake house in Otis, MA.

Gladys and John also enjoyed a simple, outdoor evening walk in the neighborhood every day, no matter what the weather. They rarely missed a day even if they were away from home, traveling the world or visiting one of the children. Their active lifestyle reflected their commitment to a healthy life, as well as their commitment to one another.

One of Gladys’s greatest loves was reserved for her feline friends—she adored cats, maybe almost as much as she loved her children and grandchildren! Her home was always filled with the warmth of these furry companions, offering comfort and companionship throughout the years. In the end, one of her beloved cats was whom we think she was waiting to see before saying goodbye.

Known for her vibrant spirit, Gladys had an incredible zest for life. She had a gift for storytelling, captivating those around her with tales of adventures, laughter, and the wisdom gained through the years. Her infectious laughter brought joy to countless hearts, and she took delight in making others laugh and smile.

Gladys was a devoted and faithful wife of over 57 years to her beloved husband John Grande before his passing in 2012. Gladys was also predeceased by her infant granddaughter Anna Bartnik in 2009. Gladys leaves one son Jonathan Grande and his wife Donna of Enfield, CT, two daughters; Lisa Ferrington and her husband Dave of Somers, CT and Kim Bartnik and her husband Jamey of Blackstone, MA, five grandchildren; Vanessa Grande, David, Nathan and Amanda Ferrington and Ava Bartnik.

Gladys will be deeply missed by her family and friends, but her legacy of love and laughter will continue to inspire us. May she find eternal peace in the company of John. Her memory will forever be cherished by her children, family, and friends. In honoring Gladys’s legacy, we remember a life well-lived, marked by resilience, adventure, and unwavering love.

Calling hours will be held on Sunday, January 28 from 2-5 pm and on Monday, January 29 from 10-11am at Wilbraham Funeral Home, 2551 Boston Rd., Wilbraham. Gladys’s Funeral Service will be Monday, January 29 at 11:00 am at the funeral home followed by burial at Gate of Heaven Cemetery. In the spirit of Gladys loving the color pink, the family warmly invites everyone attending the services to wear something pink.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Gladys’s name to Hospice of Western & Central Massachusetts, 1325 Springfield Street, Suite #12, Feeding Hills, MA 01030.