Benjamin Lapin (far left) stands with members of the Coghlin family, (l to r), Susan Mailman, Tim Coghlin, Roselyn Coghlin, Karen Coghlin, and Maureen Coghlin
Photo/submitted
Worcester – Family and friends of Ted Coghlin gathered at the Worcester Senior Center July 15 to officially open a new outdoor seating area that was dedicated in the late Shrewsbury resident’s memory.
Coghlin, a noted businessman, community leader and philanthropist, was also an avid supporter of scouting and considered the “Godfather” of the Worcester Technical High School. He passed away in December 2014.
The seating area project was first proposed by the center’s staff and the Friends of Worcester’s Senior Center, as the center’s grounds had benches for seniors to sit on but no tables. Adding tables to the area would allow the seniors to do other things such as socialize, eat or play cards.
The area was built by Benjamin Lapin, a member of Boy Scout Troop 306 in Rutland, for his Eagle Scout project. Ben is the son of Suki Lapin, the center’s program coordinator.
When Ben, who is a 2015 graduate of Worcester Technical High School’s trade carpentry, learned of Coghlin’s passing, “he immediately decided to dedicate the seating area to him,” Suki said.
Members of Coghlin’s family, including his wife, Maureen, and daughter, Susan Mailman, were present for the ceremony.
“What a nice event this morning,” Mailman said.
And addressing Ben, she added, “You clearly embody all that my Dad was about – Scouts/ Voke/ community service. Hold your head high! Great job today – thanks for including our family.”
Sponsors of the Eagle project included Friends of Worcester’s Senior Center, RJ Paquette Construction LLC and Salisbury Construction Company.
