Joan Elizabeth Labonte

1945 – 2018

Putnam, CT – Joan Elizabeth Labonte, 73, of Hawkins Road and loving partner of Charles L. “Chuck” Mahoney for 38 years left us for a beckoned call to heaven. Born in Putnam, CT, and a lifelong resident, she was the daughter of the late Germain and Ruth (Bates) Labonte.

She worked as a machine operator for Hale Manufacturing and then went on to be a popular bartender for 20 years at the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 1523 in Putnam. There she earned the respect as a loyal veteran advocate with all Post members, and with the display of an exceptional strong work ethic while on duty behind the bar.

Joan was proud to become a member of the Ladies Auxiliary through the sponsorship of her brother, namely, marine veteran Norman Labonte. She often participated as a volunteer worker for the annual Putnam VFW benefit dinners on Easter and Thanksgiving for the handicapped children and adults.
She loved her trips to Lake Winnipesauke, NH at Weirs beach to visit friends and take the annual ride on the steamship Mt. Washington. Also important to her were the happy hours at the Laconia VFW Post 1670 with the many friends made over the past 30 years.
Her love for animals had no boundaries, she adored her favorite cat “Midnight” who lived at home for 20 years, and a dog “Drefus” that she loved beyond belief. Her hobby of collecting owls was astounding, for her home is over-run with a collection of the “wise ones.” Joan was a lovely person and will be definitely missed by all who knew and loved her.

In addition to her longtime partner Chuck, Joan is survived by her siblings, Norman Labonte and his wife Cyn of Brookfield, MA, Janice Keech and her husband Jim of Ruskin, FL, Carol Wright of Gainsville, TN and Linda Hollingworth of Dayville; and many nieces & nephews. Joan was predeceased by her brother, Robert Labonte.

Relatives and friends are invited to visit with Joan’s family on Thursday, December 20, 2018 from 10:00 to 11:30 a.m. in the Gilman Funeral Home & Crematory, 104 Church St. Putnam, CT, followed by a Funeral Mass of Christian Burial at 12:00 noon in St. Mary Church of the Visitation, 218 Providence St. Putnam, CT. Burial in St. Mary Cemetery in Needham, MA will take place in the Spring. For Memorial Guestbook, visit www.GilmanAndValade.com