It is with overwhelming sorrow that we announce the passing of Meg (Ciak) Papalegis, who died suddenly and unexpectedly while touring British Columbia, Canada on October 15th, 2023. Born March 1st, 1963 in Springfield, Mass., the daughter of Frank and Elaine Ciak of Easthampton, Mass. Meg was a graduate of the Williston Northampton School, class of 1980. After losing her beloved mom Elaine in 2001, and with the grit and determination she was well known for, Meg re-entered school and earned her degree in Nursing at Southern Maine Community College, South Portland Maine at age 42. As a registered nurse, she worked tirelessly in the substance-abuse treatment field, providing care for thousands of patients in the NH Seacoast area. She was a beacon of light that shined brightly in so many lives. Meg loved and enjoyed the tranquility of nature, so much so the she and her husband retired to their cabin in the woods of northwestern Maine. Meg loved walks in the woods or the beach, rides in the country, travelling to Nova Scotia, searching for heart-shaped stones, music and her local library. She was an expert cribbage player, and a fiercely loyal fan of the Boston Bruins. Meg is survived by her loving husband, Todd Papalegis of Weld, her brother, David Ciak ’79 of Boston, Mass., her aunt Marilyn Gorski of Chicopee, Mass., and countless cousins, extended family, and friends including a very special group of friends from Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada. A celebration of life is being planned, the date TBD.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Meg’s name can be made to the Weld Public Library, P.O. Box 120, Weld, Maine 04285.
“There is no path to happiness, happiness is the path”.
My condolences to Meg’s husband and family. It is quite something that Meg returned to study and got a nursing degree. I can picture her working with patients and in her capable way, nursing them steadily, This is quite an achievement. She also loved libraries! She spent many hours at the school library during our years together at Williston. She will be sadly missed.
Such a beautiful tribute to a caring, kind woman. It is in keeping with her personality that Meg would devote her life to helping those who are marginalized and suffering from addiction. May the happy memories bring some peace and comfort to her husband, family and friends.
I’m so sorry to hear of Meg’s passing. My thoughts and prayers are with her family & friends during this difficult time.
I send thoughts and prayers to Meg’s loved ones. She certainly led a meaningful life.
May her giving example continue to inspire those who knew her well.