Rene E. Harnois, 83

 Rene E. Harnois, 83, of Phoenixville, formerly of Chicopee, MA, husband of Marie L. (Benoit) Harnois, passed away Monday May 23, 2022 at Manatawny Manor.

Born in Holyoke, MA, he was the son of the late Rene A. and Jennie (Wojciechowski) Harnois.

Rene served in the US Army reserves. He received his master’s degree in education from Elms College in Chicopee, MA and taught for 40 years at Chapin Street School in Ludlow, MA. Rene was an usher at St. Anne’s Church in Chicopee for many years and was a member of the Knights of Columbus for over 60 years. He was also an avid gardener and enjoyed planting daylilies.

Surviving along with his wife is his daughter Christina Personius wife of Kevin; son Rene E. Harnois Jr. husband of Bethany; grandchildren Allison, Sarah, and Lilianne; and brother Douglas Harnois husband of Linda.

A Funeral Mass will be held Tuesday May 31, 2022 at 11:00 AM at St. Teresa of Calcutta, 256 Swamp Pike, Schwenksville, PA 19473. Interment will follow at Limerick Garden of Memories. Visitation will be held Tuesday from 10:00-10:45 AM at the church.

View obituaries or send condolences at www.catagnusfuneralhomes.com

Add My Condolences

One of my favorite teachers, 5th grade,71-72. A friend of my mother from Chicopee High. A neighbor of my father growing up in Fairview. His mother and my grandmother were good friends. Thought of him many times over the years, made a big impression on me. Rest In Peace Mr. Harnois.

~ Glen Lafontaine
5/29/2022 1:48:57 PM

Dear Harnois Family, Mr. Harnois was our son’s 5th grade teacher at Chapin St. School. He made a difference in our son’s life. He was a wonderful teacher who took time and care with his students. We are sorry for your loss.

~ Dolores Cocchi
5/29/2022 8:43:49 AM

Dear Harnois Family,
Prayers of comfort and peace for you. Rene was such a sweet man and we will treasure our memories and time spent with him.
Love, Barb and Stan Wilksen

~ Barbara Wilksen Placentia, CA
5/28/2022 8:41:29 AM

Dear Marie and Family we are so sad to hear of Rene’s passing.You are in our thoughts and prayers.

~ Donald & Donna Pike Chicopee, MA
5/28/2022 7:09:44 AM

We're sad to hear of Uncle Rene's passing. Please accept our deepest condolences.
Catherine Wilkins (Bednarz) and Family

~ Catherine D Wilkins Myrtle Beach, SC
5/27/2022 4:58:01 PM