Henry H. Pavel

West Springfield - Our beloved husband, father, & grandfather, Henry "Herb" Pavel went to be with our Lord after a short and furious battle with cancer on July 26, 2017. "Papa" as he was lovingly known, was a consummate husband, father, grandfather, friend. Herb leaves his beloved wife Joan. He married Joanie into a family of six children- ages 2 1/2 to 10- and raised them as his own: Hugh Crean (Anne), Annie Reynolds (Russ), Norine Crean, Mark Crean, John Crean, and Michael Crean (Michelle). He was then blessed with his precious daughter, Jennifer Dickinson. He also leaves behind the joys of his life, his grandchildren: Danielle, Katelyn, Darron, Connor, John, MacKenzie, Chase, Michael, Andrew, Madelyn, Joseph, Gabriella, Kevin, Camryn; and his great-grandchildren: Hunter, Eliana, and Owen. He leaves many of his cherished family, including his sister Bernie LaFreniere, sisters-in-law Pat & Sheila Crean, daughter-in-law, Linda Crean, and son-in-law, David Dickinson, and many others too numerous to name. Herb was born in Brooklyn, NY on December 16, 1935. His formative years were spent in St.Mary's parish in Westfield where he was educated and developed his Christian spirituality that would guide him well throughout his life. Following his military service, he taught at St. Michael's High School in Northampton where he had a profound impact on his students. He later started two businesses that were built upon the credibility and likeness of his character. He loved seeing his businesses thrive and he prided himself on never retiring - this dedication is a large part of the very legacy that is Herb. It is with great appreciation that we give thanks to our sister Jenn and sister-in-law Michelle for their loving, unwavering care of Herb during his last few days of life, ensuring his passing was with dignity and peace. We also extend our profound thanks to Dr. David Bishop and Kelly O'Brien of Sr. Caritas Cancer Center at Mercy Hospital. The wake will be held Sunday, July 30th from 2-5PM at Toomey O'Brien Funeral Home, 1043 Westfield St., W. Spfld. The funeral Mass will be held 10AM, Monday, July 31st please meet directly at St. Thomas Church, 65 Pine St. He will be laid to rest at the Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Agawam. In lieu of flowers we ask that you make a gift to Sr. Caritas Cancer Center, Patient Service Fund, 271 Carew St., Springfield, MA 01104 - in honor of Dr. Bishop and Kelly O'Brien.