Norman R. Boyle Jr.

ATHOL- Norman R. “Bondo” Boyle, 91, of Athol passed away peacefully on the evening of December 4, 2023 at Heywood Hospital in Gardner.

Born in Athol on September 25, 1932, Norman attended Athol schools and worked at the Highland Press and York Theater as a teenager, before enlisting in the United States Army at the age of 17. He was the first Athol soldier to enter the Korean War. He was a Demolition Specialist holding the rank of sergeant, receiving the Occupation Medal (Japan), Meritorious Unit Emblem, Korean Service Medal w/5 Bronze Service Stars, and a United Nations Service Medal.

After his stint in the army, Norman worked at the Barre Woolen Mill, Union Twist Drill, and Howe’s Roofing Company before becoming an Athol Firefighter, EMT, and Rescue and Recovery Diver. He was a police officer in Athol and a founding member of the Athol Frogmen.

On April 30, 1955 Norman married Ann (Martinelli), and they enjoyed 68 years of marriage.

 In addition to his wife, he is survived by his son Chris Boyle of Orange, daughter Jody Newton of Athol, son Curtis Boyle of Stafford Springs, and daughter Joni Bisbee of Baldwinville; 10

Grandchildren;  and 16 great grandchildren.

Norman was predeceased by his infant son, Scott, and his sister Emily.

Norman was a member of the former Athol-Orange Elks, Athol American Legion, and the

former Orange Drum and Bugle Corp. He was a past recipient of the Elk of the Year, and

enjoyed catering many events at the Elks. He also enjoyed the early years of the River Rat

Race finishing third twice.

After retiring from the Athol Fire Department, if he wasn’t on the golf course or in his garden

spending time with his tomato plants, he’d often be found in the kitchen making spaghetti

sauce or teaching his grandchildren how to paint. He could play almost anything on a

harmonica, enjoyed the guitar, and loved telling jokes.

Norman also wrote about his memories in Korea in his book, The Blue Sandbags of Korea.

 In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donating to the Wounded Warrior Project in his memory.

A private service will be held at the Massachusetts Veterans Memorial Cemetery in

Winchendon.

Witty’s Funeral Home, 158 South Main Street, Orange is assisting the family.

Guest book online at WWW.WITTYFUNERALHOME.COM

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