Harry R. Bjorkman, Jr., 78, of Auburn died Wednesday, November 30, 2016 in Saint Vincent Hospital after an illness.

Harry was born in Newport, Rhode Island, son of the late Harry R. Bjorkman, Sr., and Mildred (Scott) Bjorkman. He graduated from Auburn High School with the Class of 1956, where he played football and was a member of Auburn’s first hockey team. After high school, he enlisted into the U.S. Army where he served, before being honorably discharged.

Harry had worked for over 40 years as a lineman for New England Power, Massachusetts Electric and Boston Edison before retiring at the age of 62.

He enjoyed hunting, fishing, traveling with Sandy, and spending many summers on Cape Cod with his family, especially his grandchildren.

He was a member of the Knights of Columbus, Alhambra Council # 88 for many years, as well as a longtime member of the Chester P. Tuttle American Legion Post # 279 in Auburn.

He leaves his two sons, Eric C. Bjorkman and his wife Doreen of Marlboro and Craig J. Bjorkman and his wife, Sheila of Auburn; three grandchildren, Michael Bjorkman of Marlboro and Jack and Erin Bjorkman of Auburn; a brother, Donald Bjorkman and his wife, Nancy of Auburn; his companion of 11 years Sandra Leroux of Shrewsbury; also, survived by several nieces and nephews.

Harry’s family would like to thank the Critical Care Team at St. Vincent Hospital for their remarkable care and support.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend a funeral Mass celebrating Harry’s life on Monday, December 5, 2016 at 10 AM at Saint Joseph’s Church, 189 Oxford Street North, Auburn. Burial will follow in Hillside Cemetery, Auburn. There are no calling hours. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to The American Cancer Society, (www.cancer.org) or to Veterans Inc., 69 Grove St, Worcester, MA 01605.