Obituary: Dolores Gagne, 88, of Meriden

MERIDEN, CT - (From Wallingford Funeral Home) Dolores Gagne, 88, of Meriden, widow of the late Fred Gagne, died on Friday January 29, 2021 at home with her children by her side.

Born in Meriden on November 9, 1932, she was the daughter of the late Francis and Dorothy (Hilte) Dennis.

She was a passionate supporter of those in need. As a Community Training Home provider for over ten years, she welcomed into her home children and young adults with mental and physical challenges. Later, her enthusiasm for the Dominican Republic Mission Team bubbled over into any conversation you had with her.

It was her joy to support all of the work being done in the D.R. - from medical clinics to home construction and education. Her great joy came in supporting the hopes and dreams of her sweet Claribel and so many others at the Joe Hartman School in La Romana.

However, nothing brought her more joy than her family – especially the great-GRANDS. She is survived by her daughter, Cynthia (Anthony) Rusate, son Gerald Hester, her grandchildren Anthony (Jessica) Rusate, Christopher (Melissa) Rusate, David Rusate, Mary Rusate, Jennifer (Rob) Lundy, Dominic Hester, Maria Rica Regio and ten great grandchildren.

Her beloved son, James Gagne, and her foster daughter Valerie Brown also predeceased her.

Funeral services and burial are private. A memorial service will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the DRMT drmissionteam.org.