Obituary
Augustine (Gus) Lonergan died Saturday morning, comfortably, in a hospice setting at his local hospital. Gus had always received excellent emergency care there when his health failed over recent years. He was 94 years old. Since 1981, always insisting on being independent, Gus (Gussie sometimes Papa Gus) lived alone in his home with great support in later years from dear friends and compassionate home care providers. Much of the home care was provided by the Veterans Administration, through which he also received his regular medical care.
Gus leaves behind his son Michael and his wife Elaine Lonergan of Windham, NH, daughters (living with their mom Therese) Mary and Patricia Lonergan of Oakland California. Other family includes his sister Rita Quintal of Methuen, cousin and very close friend Michael Riordan of North Andover. He was predeceased by his brother Jeremiah Lonergan of Hampton, NH. Gus has many cousins, nieces and nephews which he was fortunate to see at various family gatherings. His family is grateful for the many friends he made over the years in New England and in Florida. They wish to thank Kema and Lori, The Gang at Mic’s 19th Hole, Joe C. and most of all, his dear close friend Jimmy R. and his family.
Gus was born on October 6, 1926, in Lawrence Massachusetts. He was the son of Molly (Mary Dowling) and Joseph “Spike” Lonergan. He was educated at St Rita’s then St Mary’s grammar schools. Gus was in one of the first graduating classes of Central Catholic High School (1944). He attended Boston College before enlisting in the Navy, serving in the Pacific, after training in Oklahoma and Florida. Gus flew patrols in a PB4, so in later years he had no hesitancy to fly for leisure.
Gus lived in North Andover and worked as a letter carrier for US Postal Service for 34 years before heading south in retirement. Gus enjoyed golfing, card games, handicapping the “ponies and puppies,” and dining out with family and friends. Because of his type, Gus was willing to donate blood on a regular basis for quite a while and received several citations of appreciation. Gus was a regular communicant at St. Jude’s Parish in his Marion Oaks neighborhood.
Burial arrangements are through Baldwin Brothers of Ocala Florida https://baldwincremation.com/
At the request of the family there will be no services. Interment will be at The Veterans Cemetery in Bushnell, Florida.
Christmas time 2020,