Mary Claire (Monahan) Strandgaard

HOLDEN- Mary Claire (Monahan) Strandgaard, 82, beloved wife of the late Walter Strandgaard, passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, March 7, 2026, at UMass Memorial Medical Center – University Campus.

Born and raised in New York, later moving to Massachusetts in 1969 with her family. Claire was the daughter of the late Everett and Mary (Brady) Monahan. She carried with her the warmth, strength, and devotion to family that defined her throughout her life.

Claire found joy in the simple pleasures — a good book, quiet moments, and most of all time spent with the people she loved. Her family was the center of her world, and she took great pride in the lives and accomplishments of her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. She will be remembered for her gentle spirit, her caring heart, and the love she so freely gave to those around her.

She will be lovingly missed and remembered by her children, Walter Strandgaard, Jr. of Holden; Laura Thorsen and her husband, Gregory, of Princeton; and Sandy Strandgaard of Rochdale. She also leaves her sister, Rita Wright of Red Bank, New Jersey; seven cherished grandchildren, Jennifer, Samantha, Wesley, Alex, Aimee, Jessica, and Charlie; two adored great-grandchildren, Rylie and Nayvee; along with several nieces and nephews who held a special place in her heart.

In addition to her beloved husband, Walter, she was predeceased by her brother, Gene Monahan, and her sister, Joan Caruso.

Relatives and friends are invited to gather with the family from 2:00 to 3:00 p.m. on Tuesday, March 17, at Miles Funeral Home, 1158 Main Street, Holden. A funeral service will follow at 3:00 p.m. in the funeral home. Burial will be held in the spring at the convenience of the family.

Claire’s memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.