Alan R. Chilson

SPRINGFIELD - Alan R. Chilson, 66, of Springfield, MA died December 11, 2011 at Mercy Medical Center surrounded by his loving family. Born in Springfield, MA on December 16, 1944 to the late Elmer and Beatrice (Maston) Chilson, he was a life-long resident and a graduate of Roger L. Putnam Vocational Technical High School where he studied in the automotive shop. This led to a career in the transportation business, working for Roy’s Towing. He was passionate about auto racing, especially modifieds and went to the racetrack at Riverside Speedway, Stafford Speedway and Thompson Speedway for 65 years. He owned a novelty concession, “Wing Nut Motorsports,” at Riverside Park Speedway. He enjoyed camping at the races and cooking meals for all. A kind-hearted man, his three dogs and cats were special to him and he regarded them as his grandchildren. At the holidays he loved decorating his home. He was a Roman Catholic and member of Holy Name Church. Besides his parents he was pre-deceased by his sisters, Lois Haranoc and Doris Chilson. He leaves Patricia (Illingsworth) Chilson, daughters Lisa Ashline and her husband, Norman and Deborah Marier and her husband, Francis; brother Elmer Chilson; godchild Maryanne Nihill, all of Springfield; several nieces and nephews and two long-time friends, Robert Stromberg of Springfield and Terry Battle of CT, and his extended racing family. His family extends their heartfelt appreciation to the staff at Mercy Medical Center for the many years of wonderful care given and especially to Dr.Glynn and his staff during Alan’s long, courageous three year battle with lung cancer. A Celebration of Alan’s Life will be held on his birthday, Friday, December 16, 2011 at New England Funeral & Cremation Center, LLC 25 Mill Street, Springfield, MA. The family will receive friends from 6:00-7:30PM with a service to follow at 7:30PM conducted by Holy Name Church. For those who wish, memorial contributions may be made to Sr. Caritas Cancer Center, Patient Service Fund, 271 Carew Street, Springfield, MA 01104. For directions and online condolences please visit www.nefcc.net