1938 - 2026
She was the beloved wife of John Lapato, with whom she shared more than 65 years of marriage.
Ginger was the daughter of the late Herbert and Nellie (Venuti) Thurber. She grew up and was educated in Westborough and was a graduate of Westborough High School, Class of 1956. She later earned her degree from Worcester State Teachers College in 1960.
Ginger worked as a school teacher for several years before choosing to stay home to raise her family. She was a devoted wife, mother, and daughter. In the final years of her mother Nellie’s life, Ginger lovingly cared for her as a devoted caregiver.
Ginger enjoyed traveling with her husband John, but she was happiest at home in the community she loved most — her hometown of Westborough.
In addition to her husband, she is survived by her two daughters, Jill Lapato of Westborough and Jane Lapato of Queensbury, New York; her brother, Herbert Thurber of Dawsonville, Georgia; and extended family members.
She was predeceased by her sister, Maryann Whitney of South Elgin, Illinois.
Ginger will be deeply missed by her family and friends.
There will be no services.
Donations in her memory may be made to the Massachusetts Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center at
https://www.madrc.org/support-us/.
or to Notre Dame Health Care in Worcester at
https://www.notredamehealthcare.org/donate/.
