Virginia DESCHENES

Virginia "Dessie" Deschenes Grasberg , 83, of Shrewsbury, formerly of Cambridge and Brookline Village, died peacefully on June 20 while listening to classical music. She now joins her long time husband Gabriel Grasberg, who died in 1994. She is survived by her daughter Maria Hopper of Auburn and her husband Bruce and their three children Lauren, Brennan and Nathaniel; her sister Ruth Medeiros and niece Beverly Gallagher of Brookline; sister Betty Stroble of Florida; brother-in-law Eugene Grasberg of Pennsylvania and many relatives and friends. She was born in New Hampshire and was quick to remind everyone of her French-Canadian descent. Dessie proudly served in the U.S. Navy during WW II as a radio operator in the mountains of Hawaii. She had the distinction of radioing the Japanese surrender. She was a highly intelligent and educated woman, earning degrees at several universities. She traveled and studied extensively in France. She taught French for many years at Dana Hall in Wellesley and Fayerweather Street School in Cambridge. Dessie enjoyed annually taking her students to Quebec City to immerse them in all things French. She presented at many international conferences, teaching instructors how to utilize multi-disciplinary methodologies (including music) for French studies. Dessie enjoyed vibrant walks, either in the woods, a protest, a political rally for a liberal cause or to a folk music concert. She loved hosting parties, especially for 12th Night, regaling her guests and ensuring that stories were shared, your stomach was full and your wine glass was never empty. She had a penchant for robust conversation, especially in French, regarding current affairs and world travel. She was generous with her time and money for a plethora of causes to make the planet more hospitable. Donations in lieu of flowers can be made to St. Joseph's Indian School, Attn: Memorial Fund, Chamberlain, SD 57326 or www.stjo.org. A celebration of Dessie's life will be held on July 12, 6:30 pm at St. Thomas Episcopal Church, 35 School St, Auburn. Published in the Boston Globe on 7/3/2005.