Marie Christine Goodale, 1937–2026, ‘found joy in life’s simple pleasures’

Marie Christine “Chris” Goodale, of Waltham, passed away peacefully on Friday, March 20, 2026, surrounded by her loving family. She was 88.

Born in Waltham on May 13, 1937, she was the beloved daughter of the late Antonio and Paoline (Carpentino) Mazzarini.

Chris was a loving and kind woman who always made family the central and most important part of her life. A true survivor, she believed deeply in creating and maintaining strong family traditions that brought everyone together. Her warmth, strength and devotion to those she loved defined her life and left a lasting impression on all who knew her.

With a strong work ethic, Chris worked for over three decades as an Executive Secretary at Raytheon, where she was respected for her dedication and professionalism. She was also a longtime and proud member of the Waltham Lodge of Elks as well as The Moose Lodge 1018 in Waltham.

Chris found joy in life’s simple pleasures. She loved baking and preparing food for her family and friends, and trips to Hampton Beach while ensuring everyone was well fed and cared for. She enjoyed playing bingo and visiting Foxwoods, where she shared many happy moments with family and friends.

Predeceased by her beloved daughter Janice and long term partner Jak. Chris’s dear siblings, with whom she shared a special and lifelong bond, James Mazzarini and wife Phyllis, Carmello Mazzarini and wife Jenny, Salvatore Mazzarini and wife Edie, John Mazzarini and wife Mary, Elizabeth Ross and husband Larry, Paul Mazzarini, Barbara DeAmicis and husband Bob, Ann Mazzarini, Frank Mazzarini and wife Muriel and Tony Mazzarini.

Chris is survived by her loving and devoted children, Karen Manning and her partner Bob, Tom Goodale and his wife Meg and Christine Hogan and her husband Harry. In addition, her grandchildren, Jenna, Adam, Rachel, Matthew, Tara, Brittany, Patrick, Kelsey, Ricky and Cailyn Derek and his wife Sarah; her cherished great grandchildren, Keira, Kalli, Roman, Jackson, Wyatt, Everleigh, Dylan, Addison, Kayleigh, Ariana and Connor; and her sister-in-law Fran Mazzarini.

Friends and family are respectfully invited to gather and remember the love and friendship Chris shared during visiting hours on Monday, March 30 from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. in The Mary Catherine Chapel of Brasco & Sons Memorial Chapels located, 773 Moody Street, Waltham.

A funeral service in celebration of Chris’s life will begin at 12 p.m., with interment to follow at Mt. Feake Cemetery.