July 11, 1923 – Sept. 27, 2024
Shrewsbury – Gladys Nelson Bozenhard passed away peacefully at the age of 101 on September 26, 2024, in Worcester, MA, with her family by her side.
A lifelong resident of Shrewsbury, Massachusetts, Gladys will be remembered for her unwavering independence, dedication to her family, and remarkable contributions to her community and career.
She was the beloved wife of the late Cushing C. Bozenhard and was preceded in death by her son, Charles Nelson Bozenhard, and siblings, Evelyn Nelson Meyer and Alva Nelson. Gladys is survived by her son, Howard C. Bozenhard of Rochester, NY, his wife Elena A. Beyer, and her cherished grandchildren, Elizabeth Marino (Robert), Alexandra McMenomy (Brandon), and David Bozenhard (Darina). She was also a proud great-grandmother to seven great-grandchildren: Aubrey, Katie, William, Elena Rose, Daniel, Zachery, and Peter. In addition, she is survived by dear cousins, nieces and nephews, Christine Beauvais (Ted) and her family; Doris Samaras (George); Joanne White (Chris); Lois and Bob Nelson.
Gladys graduated from Shrewsbury High School in 1941. In 1945 she married her husband, Cushing C. Bozenhard of Yonkers, NY. Together, they built their family home, where they lived for 70 years. Together they founded an engineering and construction company known as The Bozenhard Company and made significant contributions to Worcester County, including the construction of several prominent landmarks in Worcester. Gladys played an essential role in the company as bookkeeper, office manager, and vice president.
Beyond her professional life, Gladys had a deep love for horticulture. She cultivated beautiful gardens at her Shrewsbury home and became a successful beekeeper. Her particular interest in apple trees and grafting techniques led to her instrumental involvement in planting the original apple orchard at The New England Botanic Garden at Tower Hill, where she also volunteered.
In addition to her love for gardening, Gladys and Cushing spent countless days sailing the New England coast. They often enjoyed sailing trips in the Caribbean, creating lifelong memories with family and friends.
Gladys moved to the Briarwood Retirement facility in Worcester five years ago where she lived independently until her passing. She enjoyed the friends she made during this time, and she loved to participate in the enrichment programs provided by Briarwood. The family is thankful that she could live her eldest years with independence and happiness.
A private celebration of life will be held in her honor.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to The New England Botanic Garden at Tower Hill, in recognition of Gladys’s lifelong passion for horticulture and her lasting impact on the community. She will be remembered for her passion, tenacity, and the beauty she cultivated in every aspect of her life.
Chiampa Funeral Home of Shrewsbury assisted the family.