Denise M. Salmon

Denise M. (Woodward) Salmon of Worcester, MA passed away peacefully on February 19th at the University of Massachusetts Medical Center with her family by her side. Denise passed away after enduring several health challenges over the past 8 months and is now reunited with her parents in heaven.

She was predeceased by her parents, Ralph “Barry” Woodward, and Eileen (Spillane) Woodward. She leaves behind her husband of 34 years, John; her loving sister Donna Zaremba and her husband Paul; her aunt Mary "Rita" Williams; as well as several beloved nieces and nephews.

Denise was a 1970 graduate of North High School in Worcester, MA. During the summer vacations of her junior and senior years Denise worked part-time for the city and after graduation, she accepted a full-time position, the start of a 44-year career with the City of Worcester. Prior to retirement she spent the last 30 years of her career working in the Communications Department as a police and fire dispatcher, an extremely stressful position, but one that also provided her with great satisfaction.

Denise loved nothing more than being with her family at gatherings or attending the sporting events of her nieces and nephews. She also loved her animals, especially her Boxer and Boston Terrier puppies (Maxie, Nikki, Maille, and Maggie,). She is deeply missed by Gracie, her little Boston Terrier pup who is currently waiting for her “Mom” to come home.

Our family would like to extend our sincere thanks for the care provided by the Doctors (Dr. Tyler Jones, Dr. Esposito) and Nurses (Caroline, Katie, and Leah) during the last few days and hours of Denise’s life. Words cannot express our gratitude for the care they provided.

Relatives and friends are invited to calling hours at the Mercadante Funeral Home & Chapel, 370 Plantation Street, Worcester, MA from 4 to 7 PM on Tuesday, February 25, 2025. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at Saint John’s Church, 44 Temple Street, Worcester at 10 AM on Wednesday, February 26, 2025. Burial will follow to St. John’s Cemetery, Worcester.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made in Denise’s memory to the St. John’s “Food for the Poor” program, 20 Temple Street Worcester, MA 01604, or the “Worcester Animal Rescue League” 139 Holden Street Worcester, MA 01606.