WORCESTER – Justin Joseph Dodge, 37 of Athol, passed away unexpectedly Sunday, April 19, 2026 at UMass Memorial – University Campus, after complications from an acute illness. He was surrounded by loved ones.

He leaves his father, Charles Dodge of Averill Park, New York, birth father, Leonard Deschaine II and step-mother, Shelly Deschaine of Orange, Massachusetts; four brothers, Jeremy Joseph Dodge and his fiancée Desiree Lentini of Nassau, NY, Leonard Deschaine III of Grafton, New York, Ryan Deschaine of Athol, Massachusetts, Nathan Deschaine of Bernardston, Massachusetts; five sisters, Eden Carolyn Dodge of Averill Park, New York, Spring Marriner of Troy, New York, Kelsey Deschaine of Orange, Massachusetts, Jami Deschaine of Bennington, Vermont, Tina Tahn of Schenectady, New York; his grandmother, Joyce Dodge of Averill Park, New York.  He was predeceased by his mother, Denise Dodge and his grandfather, Edmund Charles Dodge.  He was born in Cape May, New Jersey, son of Leonard Deschaine II and the late Denise Marie (Aniolek) Dodge.  He graduated from Averill Park High School in Averill Park, NY.

Justin was a carpenter and mechanic, working in construction.  His passion was to help his friends, family and others by fixing and building anything in need. He loved 4-wheeling and dirt bike riding, working on cars, and always checking in with Grandma Dodge.  He cared deeply and loved everyone he encountered.  He was loved greatly by all.  Justin had a huge, kind, gentle, compassionate and loving heart that he wore on his sleeve. He will be missed immensely and always remembered.

Information regarding memorial services and a celebration of life will be announced in due course.