Michael R. Lovely

Jefferson — Michael R. Lovely, 66, died peacefully at home on Sunday, June 11, 2023. He was born in Holden, the son of Richard F. and Barbara M. (Barry) Lovely and lived in Jefferson for most of his life.

Michael attended Wachusett High School and went on to co-own and operate Busy Bee Nursery and Landscape Construction in Jefferson. He had a gift for landscape design and had a loyal customer base throughout central Massachusetts. In addition to residential projects, Michael managed and oversaw more than 100 large commercial Projects for Busy Bee including the renovation of many Worcester Projects: Green Hill Park Farm, Crompton Park Playground, South Park Playground, Christoforo Columbo Park Field, Winslow Park, Institute Park Pathway, Duffy Field, Bennett Field, to name a few. He also managed many other large town and city projects around Massachusetts including Springfield, Harvard, Orange, Fitchburg, and even Improvements to the Great Dam in Winchendon. Michael had been an active member of the former Holden Business Association. He loved being outdoors, gardening, and deep-sea fishing with friends. Michael also had a special love and appreciation for animals. Above all he cherished his family.

Michael will be lovingly missed and remembered by his wife of 45 years, Joan (Van Alstyne) Lovely; his step-sons, Richard Pelletier of Maine, Ronald Pelletier of Jefferson and Robert Pelletier and his wife, Amy of Maine; his brother, Richard Lovely and his wife, Denise of Jefferson; his sister, Sharon F. Taubert and her husband, Mark of Jefferson; his grandchildren, Samantha Pelletier, Ashley Pelletier, Andrea Pelletier, Robert Pelletier, Jr. and Jonathan Berube; his great-grandchildren, Madox, Harper and John; as well as several nieces and nephews. Michael was predeceased by his grandson, Izaak Pelletier.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend calling hours from 5 to 7 p.m. on Friday, June 16, 2023, at Miles Funeral Home, 1158 Main Street, Holden. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to NEADS Inc., P.O. Box 1100, Princeton, MA 01541.