WESTFIELD – Florence Rose Godin, 97, (1925 – 2023) a lifelong resident of Westfield, MA, died peacefully on Friday, February 3, 2023, at Heritage Hall Nursing Home in Agawam, MA. Born on July 7, 1925 she was the daughter of the late William and Julia Polaski. Affectionately known as “Flo,” she was a 1944 graduate of Westfield High School and was employed by Stanley Home Products and Steiger’s. She was a communicant of St. Mary’s Church in Westfield.
In retirement, Flo and her husband, Don, worked together to create wooden folk art collectibles; most notably unique bird houses and miniatures. Their business, Ponders Hollow Crafts, was well-known in western Massachusetts. Flo was also a talented oil painting artist, an avid gardener, and a prize-winning baker, who loved to entertain others. Throughout her lifetime, Flo was devoted to her pet dogs, and her love for all animals brought her much joy.
Florence was predeceased by her husband of 46 years, Donald R. Godin, her sister Helen Hursh, and her two brothers, James W. Polaski and Thomas S. Polaski. She leaves her sister-in-law, Anne Polaski of Groton, MA and several nieces and nephews. Her family is very thankful to the staffs of both The Arbors of Westfield and the Memory Care Unit of Heritage Hall for the kindness, support, and care given to Flo to enrich her last few years.
Funeral arrangements will be private and are being handled by Forastiere Family Funeral and Cremation Service, Southwick, MA. Florence will be laid to rest with her husband, Don, at the Massachusetts Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Agawam, MA. Memorial donations may be made to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, ASPCA Gift Processing Center, PO Box 96929, Washington, DC 20090-6929.
