Gwendolyn H. Pozdena

Gwendolyn H. Pozdena, of Westford, passed away peacefully Monday, January 27, 2025 at Adelaide of Newton Center. She was 79.

Born in Port Chester, New York, on January 29, 1945, she was the cherished daughter of the late Mary (Johnston) Pozdena and Milton Pozdena. Gwen grew up in Darien, Connecticut, where she pursued her education fervently, graduating from Darien High School before continuing on to Stetson University in Florida. She furthered her academic journey at Boston University, earning a master’s degree in education.

Gwen devoted over 35 years of her life to teaching middle school science at Ottoson Middle School in Arlington, where she shared her passion for science with countless students. Her commitment to education extended beyond the classroom; after retirement, she contributed her expertise at Nashoba Valley Technical High School, developing STEM-related curricula for girls. Most recently, she enjoyed sharing her love of history and art with visitors at Fruitlands Museum in Harvard, Massachusetts, a role she held for a decade. She cherished the opportunity to interact with visitors from all over and enjoyed the museum's vibrant community.

In addition to her academic and professional endeavors, Gwen embraced a vibrant personal life. She had a profound affection for animals, particularly her beloved dogs and chickens, and enjoyed the companionship of various pets throughout her life. An avid gardener, enthusiastic baker, and dedicated reader—especially the Sherlock Holmes mysteries—she nurtured her creative spirit through arts and crafts and enjoyed the camaraderie found in her book groups. Gwendolyn’s zest for life was evident in her many travels, her love for ice cream, her cherished experiences at the theatre, and her captivating stories about her adventures.

Gwen is survived by her daughter, Kristine Osmond and her husband, Ari Craysman, of Weston; her brothers, Randall Pozdena, and his wife, Susan, of Portland, Oregon and Jan Pozdena, of Punta Gorda, Florida. She leaves behind a family who adored her, as well as many nieces, nephews, grand-nieces, grand-nephews, and dear friends who were profoundly touched by her warmth, generosity, and undying spirit.

Family and friends will honor and remember Gwendolyn’s life by gathering for an Evening Wake in the Joyce Funeral Home, 245 Main St., Waltham on Friday, January 31^st from 4 to 7 p.m. and will conclude with her Funeral Service at 7 p.m. Private Burial at Mather Cemetery in Darien Connecticut will take place at a later date.

Those wishing to view the broadcast (and recording) of Gwen's Funeral Service, please use this link: https://my.gather.app/remember/gwendolyn-pozdena