Joseph D. Schrager

Joseph D. Schrager, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and respected member of his community, passed away on December 20, 2025, at the age of 85. Born on March 9, 1940, in New Waterford, Nova Scotia, Canada, Joseph spent his formative years in this quaint setting before moving to Hudson, Massachusetts, where he resided for the past 67 years.

Joseph's remarkable work ethic began at a young age when he started working at the Sydney Mines in Nova Scotia at just 15 years old to help support his family. His journey took a significant turn at the age of 20 when he immigrated to the United States and settled in Hudson. There, he began a long and fruitful career in sheet rock construction, working alongside his brother-in-law George Chiasson. At the age of 47, Joseph took a leap of faith and founded his own business, J.D. Schrager Blue Board and Plastering Company, which he successfully operated until his retirement at the age of 70. Joseph was well-respected by colleagues and clients alike, known for his dedication and expertise in his craft.

Throughout his life, Joseph was deeply committed to his family and friends. His 60-year marriage to Gloria J. (Shomph) Schrager was a central pillar of his life; their union was marked by love, mutual respect, and shared memories. Joseph cherished the time spent with Gloria and was proud to raise a family together. It was often a tradition for Joseph, Gloria and the children  to venture to Waterford, Nova Scotia, on Friday afternoons, visiting relatives and friends, and relishing the connections that persisted over the years. They would always travel back on Sunday to get to work on Monday morning.

As a quiet and private individual, Joseph’s kindness, caring nature, and generosity left a lasting impression on those who were fortunate to know him. He enjoyed tending to his garden and taking pride in his yard, alongside his passion for finish carpentry as he sought to improve the interior of his beloved home. In quieter moments, Joseph found joy in watching classic television shows like The Andy Griffith Show, Bonanza, and Gunsmoke from the comfort of his recliner.

Joseph is survived by his daughters, Michele Dusseault of Hudson, MA, wife of the late retired Hudson Fire Chief Fred Dussealt, and Karen Trainor and her husband Gary of Palm Coast, FL; his son, Donald Schrager and his wife Kim of Waynesboro, VI; his sister, Karen Rhodes and her husband Rick of Nova Scotia, Canada; his brother, William Schrager and his wife Carolyn of Ontario, Canada; and his cherished grandchildren, Jeremy Dusseault of Hudson, MA, and Olivia Schrager-Dorsey and her husband Jaxson of Palm Coast, FL. Additionally, he leaves behind many nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends who will remember him fondly.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Gloria in 2023, along with his parents, Gustav and Harriet (MacDonald) Schrager, and his siblings, Emma Chiasson, Gustav "Gussie" Schrager, and Douglas Schrager.

Visiting hours will be held on Saturday, January 3, 2026, from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM at the Tighe Hamilton Regional Funeral Home in Hudson, MA. Following the visitation, a funeral service will commence at 12:00 PM, followed by a graveside service at Forestvale Cemetery, Broad Street, Hudson, MA.

Joseph D. Schrager's legacy of hard work, dedication to family, and generosity will be remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Joseph may be made to: