Alice Tranowski Canning, 90, of Lenox, died on Tuesday, September 17, 2024, at her home with her husband beside her. She was born in Tewksbury, Mass., on June 28, 1934, and was the second child of Helen Tranowski.
Alice began her career as a housekeeper for the family of Dr. and Mrs. Edward Ferrarone in Springfield, Mass., where she helped raise seven boys who, with their spouses and children, are her extended family. On October 10, 1981, she married Thomas Canning in Holy Name Church in Springfield and moved to Lenox. She is survived by her husband; two sisters-in-laws, Mary Cathey and Betty Canning; a niece, Audrey Novak; her children, Thomas Christensen (Katelyn) and Frances Lynne Novak; and Alice’s brother Louis Tranowski and his daughter Deborah Tranowski Drazovich and her family. In Lenox, Alice worked as a housekeeper for Jane Flint for 22 years and for another six years as a housekeeper at St. Ann’s Rectory, retiring in 2010.
Alice enjoyed traveling. With her husband, she toured the United States. She also visited England, Scotland, Ireland, France, and Germany, along with Canada and Mexico. She enjoyed sewing and crafts.
Alice loved being in the company of family and friends. Her smile and laughter were present at many celebrations throughout the years.
Calling hours are 5 to 7 p.m. on Tuesday, September 24, at the Roche Funeral Home, 120 Main Street, Lenox. Funeral Mass will be celebrated by Monsignor John J. Bonzagni at 10 a.m. on Wednesday, September 25, 2024, at St Ann’s Church, 134 Main Street, Lenox. Burial will follow in St Ann’s Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, Alice’s family requests donations be made in her memory to HospiceCare in the Berkshires and mailed to the Roche Funeral Home, 120 Main Street, Lenox, MA 01240. To share memories and stories, please visit the funeral home’s website.
