CHARLTON - Claudia Gladys (Nicolai) Pownall , 96,  died peacefully at the The Overlook Masonic Home, Charlton, MA on January 14th, 2013.

Surviving are her husband of 71 years, Jay Pownall of Charlton, MA;  son, Ron Pownall and daughter-in-law Darlene DeVita of Chelsea, MA;  daughter, Phyllis Pownall of Cambridge, MA;  grandsons Ben Pownall of Weston, MA and Amos Pownall of Boulder, CO; and faithful grand-dog, Fonzie.

Jay & Claudia were partners in their business, Jay C Pownall, Inc, Lawn & Garden Distributorship in Wilmington, DE, until they retired to Fort Myers, FL in 1982.

They spent their summers in Wakefield, NH where they entertained many new-found friends, longtime friends and family.  Claudia especially enjoyed visits from grandsons Ben and Amos, where the days were filled with swimming, boating, fishing and loon-watching on Pine River Pond.  She enjoyed baking, especially sending cookie care-packages to camp and college.

In 2006 they “re-retired” to Charlton, MA to be closer to their children and grandchildren.   They were among the first residents to move into The Overlook Community, where they developed many lasting relationships in their new home.

Claudia & Jay are members of the Religious Society of Friends.   Claudia was known for always encouraging everyone to hold hands and “Shake a Little Love Around”.

She will be remembered for her gracious personality and warm, infectious smile.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to:

Masonic Health System Foundation

88 Masonic Home Rd

Charlton, MA 01507

A Memorial Service will be held at The Performing Arts Center, The Overlook, Charlton, MA.

Saturday, January 19, 2013 at 2PM

Burial will be at Eastland Friends Meeting. Nottingham, PA in August, 2013.

The Robert J. Miller-Charlton Funeral Home, 175 Old Worcester Rd. is assisting the Family with arrangements.

On-Line Guest Book is available at:  RJMillerfunerals.net