Marilyn R. Brunelle

South Hadley- Marilyn R. (Claus) Brunelle, 84, of South Hadley, passed away on Thursday, August 14, 2025, at Pioneer Valley Nursing Home in South Hadley.

She leaves behind her loving son, James E. Waltein of Springfield; her loving daughter, Julie M. Waltein-Balsam and her husband, Michael, of Ware; her daughter-in-law, Jennifer Brunelle; six of her seven beloved grandchildren, Heather, Emily and Tracey Brunelle, Michaela Sweeting, Richard Waltein, III, and Alyssa Covert; as well as her nine great-grandchildren. She was predeceased by her loving husband, Raymond E. Brunelle, in 2001; by her sons, Richard D. Waltein, and Mark R. Brunelle; as well as by her grandson, Christopher Brunelle. She was born in Danbury, CT, daughter of the late Alton E. and Rose C. (Borsis) Claus.

Marilyn was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and a kind and caring friend to many. She was a fan of the 50’s music classics, and especially of Neil Diamond. She enjoyed watching the Eternal Word Network (EWTN) on TV, as well as the various gameshows. She held a deep love for her many pets over the years – but especially most recently, her dogs Inca and Missy, who grew very close to her. However, perhaps most of all, Marilyn enjoyed the time she was able spend with those close family and friends whose lives she touched.

Calling Hours for Marilyn will be held on Sunday, August 24, 2025, from 4:00pm – 6:00pm in Charbonneau Funeral Home, 30 Pleasant Street, Ware, MA 01082. A Funeral Service will be held the following morning, on Monday, August 25, 2025, at 10:00am in Saint Francis of Assisi Parish, 24 Jabish Street, Belchertown, MA 01007. Those attending the church service are kindly asked to meet directly at church. Entombment will be held at 12:30pm in St. Michael’s Cemetery, 1601 State Street, Springfield, MA 01109, following the church service.

Charbonneau Funeral Home, 30 Pleasant Street in Ware, is honored to serve the Brunelle family. An online tribute page is available at www.charbonneaufh.com .