Eva Marie Houle
1969 – 2012
Thompson – Eva Marie Houle, 43, of Quaddick Rd, died Thursday, September 13, 2012, in the home of her mother Shirley J. Houle of Grosvenordale surrounded by all of her family after a courageous eleven-year battle with breast cancer.
Eva was a 1987 graduate of Tourtellotte High School where she was a standout athlete in softball, basketball, and soccer. She was the first female athlete of the school to be inducted into the Tourtellotte High School Athletic Hall of Fame in 2010. She was a dedicated softball player throughout her life. She started playing at the young age of eight and played her last game at the age of forty due to her declining health. She participated in several Connecticut and Massachusetts Leagues after college, becoming well known throughout the area for her speed, agility, and plays on the field. She graduated from Becker Junior College in 1989 and Eastern Connecticut State University in 1991. Prior to her battle with breast cancer, she was employed by Arbella Insurance in Worcester and Westoboro, MA.
As an Aunt, there was nothing like her. She doted over all of her nieces and nephews. They were a bright spot in her life and meant the world to her.
In addition to her devoted mother, Eva is survived by her fiancé with whom she was engaged to since 2005, William “Jack” Maloney, Jr. of Thompson; her father Lawrence O. Houle, Sr. of Brooklyn, her brothers, Lawrence O. Houle, Jr. and his wife Beverly of Grosvenordale, Rene C. Houle of Grosvenordale, Jean C. “Plooky” Houle and his fiancé Jona Hagen of Rapid City,SD, Phillip T. Houle of Grosvenordale, and Daniel L. Houle and James Keegan of Boston, MA; her sisters, Virginia L. Houle of North Grosvenordale, and Valentine (Houle) Iamartino and her husband Joseph of Thompson; her nieces and nephews, Jenelle Burke and her daughters Brileigh and Brooke Sundthimer of Putnam, Lindsey Burke of Old Saybrook, CT, Nicole Houle of Rockton, IL, Kaitlyn Burke and her daughters Jesseniah and Giovanna Diaz of Danielson, Jonathon Houle and his son Caleb of Audubon MN, and Christian, Marissa and Alexander Iamartino of Thompson; her father’s second wife, Kim Houle; and her half-sister, Laurel O. Houle both of Brooklyn, CT; her in-laws to be, William and Lynn Maloney, Sr. of Wheeling, IL; many supportive aunts, uncles, cousins, friends, teammates, acquaintances and community neighbors; her three adorable cats, Fenway, Duncan, and Chino. She was predeceased in 2001 by her brother Shawn T. Houle and in 2008 by her beloved dog, “Mocha.”
Relatives and friends are invited to visit with Eva’s family from 4:00 p.m.to 8:00 p.m., Monday, September 17, 2012 in the Valade Funeral Home, 23 Main St., N. Grosvenordale CT. A gathering will begin at 9:00 am on Tuesday, September 18, 2012, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00 am in St. Joseph Church, 18 Main St., N. Grosvenordale. Burial will follow in West Thompson Cemetery.
Memorial donations may be made to St. Francis Hospital & Medical Center, Attn: Cancer Center Donations, 95 Woodland Avenue, Hartford, CT 06105, or to Hospice & Palliative Care of NECT, P.O. Box 632, Putnam, CT 06260. For memorial guestbook visit www.GilmanAndValade.com.
Lee Marquis
I was so very sorry to hear the news about Eva. Every time I saw her she always had such a big smile and had the most positive outlook.
She inspired me in many ways. It is very sad and she will be missed for sure.
Kris Siekierski Lavallee
We are so sorry for your loss. Although I did not know Eva personally, I knew of her and the entire Houle family from growing up in Thompson myself, and from working at Commerce our paths did cross a couple of times many years ago. She was a sweet, kind, and friendly person. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Houle family in their time of loss.
Kris, Mike, and Morgan Lavallee
(Neighbors of Lee Lee at the bottom of the hill in the sage green house).
Jane Spellissy
I’m at a loss of what to say. I guess the only thing I can say is how terribly sorry I am about Eva’s passing. She was so strong and what a fighter, I just thought she would win this battle too. But it was not to be. I know the strength of the HOULE family and they will get through this terrible loss. I will keep you all in my prayers.
Tonight Eva is sleeping with the angels.
Good night sweet girl.
Xoxo
Jane
Celeste Therrien-Fifield
Shirley & Family: I was so saddened to hear of your loss today. Eva was and is a special person. She could always put a smile on your face or just know the right thing to say to brighten your day. I was so blessed to play basketball with her through high school and watch her excel at everything she put her mind to doing. Even if you weren’t the best player she still would work hard to try to encourage you to do your best.
As I have done for the last 2 years, I will bring Eva with me during my Breast Cancer walks. May for 2013 will be no different. She will be there to help me complete the walk. I will carry her in my heart forever.
I love you and hope that you know if there is anything that I can do I will be right there for all of you.
Love
Celeste
suzan costen
What a courageous woman who touched alot of lives and made us laugh. She will be missed by all. Condolences to the entire family.
NANCY JOHNSTON
GOD BLESS HER FAMILY GOD BLESS EVA
Rachel Doucette
My heart goes out to Eva’s entire family in the loss of such a vital, dynamic personality. As we mourn her passing, she is having a grand reunion with brother Shawn, grandmothers, aunts & uncles who have gone before her. The brilliant star called Eva will shine forevermore upon us all. Love & Peace, Rachel
Tracie
I grew up watching Eva play ball against my big sister. I will never forget her tenaciousness and determination. She always left it all on the court/field and I am sure she fought that way to the end. Prayers and thoughts to her family.
nancy Leo
Dear Shirley..I like to offer my thoughts and my prayers to you and your family..Your pain right now is unimaginable..I know..I am putting you and your family on Moms prayer line today..We are so sorry for your loss..
Marie Miller
Ray & Family,
Please accept my deepest symthaphy. My prayers are with all of you. Again, my sincerest condolences.
Love,
Marie Miller
Pam Maynard
My thoughts and prayers go out to the entire Houle family. Eva was a great friend and I’m honored to have shared so many memories with her. I remember lots of great time with her throughout all our school years. May she rest in peace now and may her memory live on . She will never be forgotten.
Donna Stewart
With a heavy heart, I send my deepest condolences to Jack and Eva’s entire family. I only knew Eva for a few years(she is my nephew-Brady Carlson’s godmother), but something about Eva made me take an instant liking to her. Cancer takes the best and unfortunately, Eva was one of the chosen, but Heaven certainly has gained an angel. R.I.P. dear girl. You will live on in our memories and we will all meet again someday.
Donna Murphy
To the Houle Family,
My deepest sympathies go out to all of you during this very sad and difficult time. May Eva’s memories live on in all your lives. My thoughts and prayers are with all of you.
Jennifer Langelier
My deepest sympathy to the family. I have many fond childhood memories of time spent with her on weekend camping trips or playing in the backyard. May she now rest in peace.
Louise J. Grenier Pugh
My heart is saddened by your loss. Eva was the most courageous person I’ve ever met. May God bring her to peace and happiness.
Only blessings, never losses.
Kathy (Trudeau) Bowen
Im sorry for your loss, my thoughts & prayers are with the family now. Eva was a courageous woman, she will not be forgotten.
John, Carol, Nicholas & Matthew Kronopolus
Mrs. Houle, Family Members & Jack ~
The Kronopolus Family sends you heartfelt condolences and prayers to give you strength through this time of great sadness.
Jack & Eva played softball with us for many years in Clinton in the womens’ and co-ed leagues. We looked forward to every game because we knew our team would play an excellent game with their softball talents. Most of all we enjoyed the laughter and fun we would share during and after the games! Eva was always full of mischief, silly antics, laughter and enjoyed socializing with all of the teams.
Many of you often traveled to Clinton to cheer us to victory – it was always nice to have you as our enthusiastic fans!
Eva was always considered “family” and she was a special part of our sons’ lives when they were growing up. She was thoughtful, supportive of their accomplishments and always made them feel special. At family gatherings we recall funny moments shared with Eva and we laugh with fond remembrance. We will forver cherish these moments with Eva. It is hard to imagine life without Eva.
The one blessing at this time is knowing that Eva is no longer in pain and battling cancer.
Our greatest sympathy ~
John, Carol, Nicholas & Matthew Kronopolus ~ Sterling, MA
Mary Houle
Dear Aunt Shirley & Family , Our thoughts and prayers are with you’s. words seem inadequate to express the sadness we all feel about Eva’s passing.
With peace,prayers, & blessings
Mary Houle & family
Ron & Connie Houle
Aunt Shirley,
Our hearts are saddened to know that Eva will not walk among us anymore. Instead she will be walking with our heavenly father, Shawn, Mom, Dad and our loved ones who have gone before us. In knowing this we take comfort. We send you our deepest Sympathy, and will continue to keep you all in our prayers. With our love Ron & Connie
Eric and Julie Murray
To the Houle family
We are so sorry for your loss. Eva could light up even the darkest room and she will continue to do so. Your family will be in our thoughts and prayers.
Love Eric and Julie
Larry & Erica Groh
Shirley & family ~ Our thoughts and prayers go out to all of you! Good bless and please let us know what we can do to help in any way. With Love ~ Larry & Erica Groh
Breity
To the Houle Family & Jack,
I was deeply saddened with the news of Eva’s passing. I had the pleasure of meeting your beautiful daughter (fiance) 15 years ago while playing softball in Clinton. Eva was quite the little spitfire! We had a lot of laughs and created some wonderful memories that I will forever treasure. She will be greatly missed by many but never forgotten.
Rest in Peace my sweet friend til we meet again on the softball field of dreams.
xoxo Breity
Wendy Benoit
My thoughts & prayers are with Jack & the Family. Eva was a great teammate, friend and most of all a great person. I will always remember the many laughs we shared. I love you & will miss you Eva Houle. You will never be forgotten.
Arlene Succi
Dear Shirley,
Tom and I are deeply saddened to hear of Eva’s passing. I really thought she was going to beat the cancer and was very surprised to hear she passed. I will say a special prayer for her and you and your family. She is with God now.
Love and Prayers, Arlene Succi
Cookie Dion
Ray, Mom Houle and Family
My deepest sympathy to all of you at this very sad time.
Love Cookie
Joseph & Diane Gillespie
Our deepest sympathy for the loss of Eva. We met her for the first time about 10 yrs ago when we all went on a cruise. She was fun and will be missed. God Bless you and your family for the loss of Eva.
Joe & Diane Gillespie
Karl & Carol Casey
Shirl & family,
There are no words that will make you feel better, but just knowing others are praying for you to be at peace and knowing Eva is finally in a much better place: Jeses’ arms, holding her tight, might give you some comfort, Grieve, but also remember she and Shawn are together again with their grandparents and others in a place where there is no pain, only peace. May God’s blessings be with you on this journey,
Love Karl & Carol
Jim Willett
Jack, Houle family and all,
Please accept my deepest sympathy. I did not know Eva personally, but Jack talked of her often. From his conversations I know that she must have been a courageous fighter and a kind soul. I am sure she will be missed.
Jim Willett (past co-worker with Jack)
Gloria Crane
To The Houle Family
Shirley, Jack and Val
You all are in my thoughts and prayers. May the comfort of God and His peace help you during this time,knowing that her battle is over and she is at rest with our Lord and Savior.
Deb Ness
God didn’t promise days without pain, laughter without sorrow, sun without rain, but He did promise strength for the day, comfort for the tears, and light for the way. If God brings you to it, He will bring you through it. I’m so sorry about Eva’s passing. We kept in touch over the years and toward the end, I could hear in her voice that she was ready to join those in heaven. Please take comfort in the fact that she is no longer in pain and is with our heavenly Father and those that passed before her. She will be greatly missed but never forgotten. Love, Deb
Ron Pine
I had the good fortune of meeting Eva several years ago as a co-worker and friend of her fiancé Jack. We all met as softball players and I was so glad to watch Jack and Eva’s relationship bloom. I can’t say much for Jack’s game, but Eva could sure play ball. I don’t think I’ve ever met a more hard core Red Sox fan. Eva had a vivacious and magnetic personality. She will be missed. I’m sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Dan an Deb Holsworth
My deepest condolences to Eva’s family and friends. I never got the honor to meet Eva but I heard a lot about her. She was truly loved by all that she touched. Jean her brother “Plooky” is an employee of ours and I know how much he will miss her. Eva will always be remembered as a gift from god and will continue to bless all that knew her with loving memories of her time she shared with her family and her friends. Love Dan an Deb
Peggy and Gadiel Serrano
To the Houle Family and Jack: So sorry to hear about the passing of Eva. She was a very nice person who never had a bad word to say about anyone or anything. She was always laughing, full of life. I enjoyed alot of laughs with her on Vale STreet. Just knowing that she is no longer suffering or in pain hopes it brings you some comfort. She will live on with memories of her. GOD BLESS YOU ALL AT THIS TIME. With deepest sympathy Peggy and Gaddiel Serrano
Kevin Crowley
My thoughts & prayers are with Jack & the Family. Eva was a great teammate, friend and most of all a great person. I will always remember the many laughs we shared. See you on the field of dreams EVA.
Tammy Majercik
To Jack and the entire Houle family,
We are so saddened by Eva’s passing but know that she will suffer no more. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. She was a beautiful person, a wonderful auntie to Maddie and Brady as well as being Brady’s godmother. We will keep her memory alive for the kids to know how strong her spirit was.
With Love, Tammy, Glenn, Daniel, Evan, Morgan, Maddison, and
Braeden
Doug Hare
I had the pleasure of meeting Eva at the Clinton Softball field. I was an umpire and Eva was a player. She was a great person. She would let you know when you made a bad call then offer you a beer at the end of the game. May you rest in Peace.
Lisa & Brian Peters
We are so sorry to hear of Eva’s passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with Eva and family.
Dennis Dakin
My deepest condolences to Jack and the entire Houle family. She will be missed. I’ve known Jack now for several years and he always spoke of Eva and her courage and the joy she brought to so many.
Michelle (Valade) Marcinczyk
Please know that my thoughts and prayers are with you during this most difficult time. Find comfort in knowing just how many lives Eva touched. This will help you begin, “The Healing Process”
Michelle (Valade) Marcinczyk
Mallory
Eva always went after my sets like she was 6’2 instead of 5’2. She played every game with heart and thanks to her, I have many championship jackets an runner up sweatshirts. RIP Eva.
Anna Frederick Martineau
Shirley and family ~ Deepest sympathy to you. I have many fond memories of Eva during all our school years. She was a great person. My prayers are with you.
Bruce Cotnoir
Delco and Eva are together. My condolences. Bruce
John and Jackie (Valade) Sujdak
Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you. May you find comfort in knowing the lives Eva touched along the way.
Cousin Pam
Your strength and courage are second to none. May you rest in peace, cousin Eva. For you are in the hands of GOD now and may GOD rest your soul.
Jan Richards-Schmidt (Mrs.R.-S)
Dear, dear, Eva Marie,
I had no idea of your struggle; had I known, I would have bet on your being a winner. Since God has taken you, I believe that you are the winner, and there will be work for you ahead. You were a bright, shining light in the classroom and fields and in the halls of T.M.H.S. and beyond. In your fighting mode, I can only imagine the people whom you inspired, and that work is now done! You know what “they” say: “You make a plan, and God laughs!”
I love your mom, Shirley, yet another beacon in my time teaching in Thompson and your brother, Phillip, whom I also knew and
respected and, oh. so many others!
Having just learned about your passing, I know you are in good hands, and I pray that your family, friends, and fiancee will come to smile in due time, blessed to have had the time afforded to them with you, and that we all come to know that it is imperative to live our lives with conviction and passion until we are called…
You used to come to me for a hug, so here it is: OO (okay, that’s two) … until we meet again…..Mrs. R-S
John & Patti Vandenbroek
We are very sorry for your loss. Eva has been in our prayers for years. We will always remember Eva’s smile and positive outlook on life even through all her struggles. As you go through the grieving process, may you be comforted by knowing that she touched many lives and was an inspiration to all who knew her. With our deepest sympathy – John & Patti
Ann C. Rosebrooks
I was shocked and saddened to see Eva’s obituary in the paper. She was a sweet girl and a good friend to Earl. Such a long ordeal
for her and all of her family who loved her. Much too young to leave this world. Ann C. Rosebrooks
harry [hap] coman
i know how hard it is to loose a child or a siblin;. please accept my condolences
Sandy Oleksiak
Shirley and family,
I am so sorry upon your loss, God has wrapped his arms around Eva and she is now at peace. My prayers and heartfelt sympathy, God Bless you and your family.
Sandy O.
kimberly houle
I feel tears in my throat eva,you were one of the most loving and passionate people in this world”I remember when i was young walking to school and the other kids would make fun of my clothes because i was less fortunate than others…You told me not to listen to them and to remember that they don’t make me who i am that i do”’those words became my strength in life with all the hard times i went through and influenced me to be who i am today and i had never forgotten them nor did i get to tell you””’ I LOVE YOU EVA”’ you are always in my heart and the little things really are the wonderful things…