Crucifina F (Cannella) Pakus

Crucifina F. (Cannella) Pakus, age 101, of Marlborough, passed away peacefully on January 2, 2026, in The Reservoir Center for Health and Rehabilitation, surrounded by the care and comfort of those who loved her.

Born in Maynard, Massachusetts, Crucifina was the beloved daughter of the late Calagero and Francesca (Buscemi) Cannella. She shared 51 devoted years of marriage with her husband, John F. Pakus, until his passing in 2007. Together they built a life rooted in love, faith, and family.

Crucifina is lovingly survived by her daughter, Deborah Hesek, and her husband Richard of Northborough; and by her cherished grandchildren, Matthew Hesek of Worcester, and Neil Hesek and his wife Sahar of Somerville; and many beloved cousins, nieces, and nephews.

She was predeceased by her beloved children, Mark F. Pakus and Ann F. Bieber, as well as her five brothers and sisters, all of whom she held close in her heart throughout her life.

Crucifina worked for many years at the Marlborough Country Club, where she formed lasting friendships with co-workers and patrons alike.  She later began a career at New England Telephone, working in the office and continuing her lifelong dedication to hard work and service.

Above all, Crucifina found her greatest joy in caring for her grandsons, spending time with family and friends, and living out her deep and abiding faith. She especially enjoyed crocheting, a craft through which she expressed both creativity and love, making countless doilies and afghans for family and friends. True to her generous spirit, she also donated many of her handmade afghans to homeless shelters, hospitals, and veterans. She will be remembered for her kindness, quiet strength, generosity of spirit, and unwavering devotion to those she loved.

A Funeral Mass will be celebrated in Immaculate Conception Church, 11 Prospect Street, Marlborough, on January 7th at 11:00 a.m. Calling hours will be held prior to the Mass from 9:00 to 10:45 a.m. in the Short and Rowe Funeral Home, 95 West Main Street, Marlborough. Burial will follow in Evergreen Cemetery, Wilson Street, Marlborough.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Crucifina’s memory may be made to Buddy Dog Humane Society, Inc. (www.buddydoghs.org) or the MetroWest Humane Society (https://metrowesthumanesociety.org).

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