Author Archives: Dana Farwell

   Dennis James Dean, 75, of Nashua, NH, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on Sunday, October 30, 2022 at the Community Hospice House in Merrimack, NH.

    Born in Nashua, New Hampshire on January 30, 1947, he was the son of the late William and Claire (Ledoux) Dean. Dennis was the husband of Pauline (Levesque) Dean, whom he married on August 19, 1967 in Nashua.

    Dennis graduated from Nashua High School Class of 1965 and served in the U.S. Army active and reserves for six years. He began his working career at Sprague Electric Company and then with the New England Telephone Company for 30 years until his retirement.

    An avid outdoorsman, Dennis enjoyed hunting, fishing and snowmobiling. He also enjoyed spending time with his wife, children, grandchildren, family and friends at his home. Dennis was a lifetime member of the Horse Pond Fish & Game Club of Nashua and the Tyngsboro Sportman’s Clubs.

     Dennis is survived by his wife, Pauline, to whom he was married for 55 years; two sons and a daughter, Mark Dean of Nashua, Christopher and Laura (Bosteels) Dean and their son Kyle of Hudson, and Melissa Bosteels and her husband Daren and their children Justin and Brieonna of Allenstown; sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Jacqueline (Levesque) and Donald Henderson; nephews, James Henderson of Wilton and Shawn Henderson of Nashua.

     There are no calling hours. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at St. Joseph The Worker Parish, 777 West Hollis Street, Nashua, Friday morning, November 4^th at 9 a.m. Friends are invited to attend. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Dennis’ memory to the Community Hospice House, 7 Executive Park Drive, Merrimack, NH 03054. Burial will be at a future date at the New Hampshire State Veterans Cemetery in Boscawen. To leave an online message of condolence, please visit www.farwellfuneralservice.com Arrangements are in the care of the FARWELL FUNERAL SERVICE, 18 Lock Street, Nashua.

   Anita C. Pike, 91, of Amherst, formerly of Nashua and Hollis, passed away Wednesday morning, October 26, 2022. Anita was born in Nashua on April 3, 1931 and was the widow of Francis E. Pike. She was a daughter of the late Edward and Florence (Coulombe) Migneault. Anita grew up in Nashua and attended local schools.

    Anita loved to be with family and friends hosting many gatherings. She enjoyed dancing, singing, traveling, motorcycling, water skiing and gambling.

     She and her husband Frank, were married in September of 1950 and shared over 49 years together until his passing on January 22, 2000.

   Members of her family include a son, Larry D. Pike and his wife Cindi; a daughter, Lisa D. Maylor and her husband Paul; six grandchildren, Janel Dwinell, Jaime Pike, Holly Sears, Mike Bevins, Leah Thistle and Melody Thistle; as well as several great-grandchildren; two brothers, Robert Migneault and his wife Laurie, and Raymond Migneault; and many nieces and nephews.

    In addition to her husband and parents, Anita was predeceased by a daughter, Linda D. Bevins; daughter-in-law, Joyce L. (Anctil) Pike; three brothers, Pete, Roger and Roland Migneault; and her sisters, Doris Slatunas and Alice Rioux.

    Calling hours will be held at the FARWELL FUNERAL HOME, 18 Lock Street, Nashua on Tuesday evening, November 1^st from 6 to 8 p.m. A Graveside service will take place at St. Louis Cemetery, 752 West Hollis Street, Nashua, Thursday, November 3^rd at 11 a.m. All are invited to attend. There will be an after gathering at 14 Upham Rd, Amherst, to celebrate her life. To leave an online message of condolence, please visit www.farwellfuneralservice.com

   Lorraine A. Houle, 88, a Nashua native and longtime resident, passed away at the Mountain View Community in Ossipee, Wednesday morning, October 19, 2022.         

   A daughter of the late Maurice O. and Antoinette M. (Cadorette) Bullard, she was born on January 9, 1934. Educated in local schools, Lorraine was a graduate of Nashua High School Class of 1951. She was homemaker to her family and also worked at Benson’s Wild Animal Park in Hudson for many years and later worked Dunkin Donuts on Amherst Street in Nashua for many years.

   Lorraine made her home in Nashua for many years and also resided in Windham and Antrim, NH, and Phoenix, AZ. She was a communicant of St. Christopher Church.

    Members of her family include her five children and their spouses, Richard and Elizabeth Houle of Hudson, Michael and Wendy Houle of Litchfield, Gail and Stan Peskin of Phoenix, AZ, Kathy and Richard Dumont of Antrim, and Patti and Richard Erickson of Phoenix, AZ; her grandchildren, Colton and Mikaela Houle, Matt and Abby Houle, Kaylee Erickson, Peter Dumont and family, Glenn and Jill Dumont; three great-grandsons, Jake, Russell and Benjamin Dumont; a nephew, Robert M. Bullard Jr.; and a niece, Judith A. Bullard both of Manchester. In addition to her parents, Lorraine was predeceased by her brother, Robert M. Bullard; and her former husband Russell R. “Red” Houle.

    A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated in St. Christopher Church, 62 Manchester Street, Nashua, Thursday, October 27^th at 11 a.m. Family and friends are invited to the FARWELL FUNERAL HOME, 18 Lock Street, Nashua, Thursday morning from 9:00 to 10:30. Interment will take place in Edgewood Cemetery. To leave an online message of condolence, please visit www.farwellfuneralservice.com 

Attorney Gerald Prunier, 81, a longtime resident of Hollis and Nashua, NH died peacefully on Tuesday afternoon, October 18, 2022, with his family by his side. He passed after suffering from a catastrophic stroke experienced while playing golf at Overlook Country Club where he owned the first tee time every Saturday morning for over 30 years.

Gerry was born on October 20, 1940, in Worcester, Massachusetts, the son of the late George and Theresa Prunier. He is survived by Estelle (Dumaine) Prunier, of Nashua, with whom in 1963 after her cousin, Philip Caron arranged a blind date for them. Their love story began then and lasted 59 years of marriage. Throughout his young life he worked hard for his uncle’s masonry company and helped raise his six brothers and sisters: Denise LeBlanc, George Prunier, Annette Leger, Bernie Caron, Jeannine Voveris, and Robert Prunier. Gerry was the eldest, he loved them deeply, and they each made him feel equally appreciated with plenty of blueberry muffins, flowers, and impromptu visits.

After graduating from Assumption Prep School in 1959, Gerry attended the College of the Holy Cross in Worcester, MA, graduating in 1963. After one year of business school at Columbia University Graduate School of Business, he moved on to Boston College Law School earning his Juris Doctorate in 1967. Gerry began his law career when he was hired by Thomas Leonard in the same year. Many respected attorneys influenced him over his 55-year career, too many to name, but each is remembered in his family’s hearts. He eventually opened his own law practice in Nashua, NH, offering expertise in land use and real estate development. He is remembered for being a major contributor to the growth and economic stability of the Nashua region.

Gerry remained loyal to his community until the end. He was elected to the Nashua Board of Education in 1967 and Chairman of the Board in 1971. He was the past President of the Nashua YMCA and past President of the Nashua Chamber of Commerce. Additionally, Gerry served as the Director of the Nashua Children’s Home, was a former Trustee of Nashua Memorial Hospital (Southern NH Regional Medical Center), former Director of the Nashua Trust Company, a member of the Bishop Guertin School Board and past President of the Nashua Bar Association. He remained a faithful member of the Rotary Club of Nashua and Nashua Business & Industrial Development Authority (BIDA). He worked his magic in countless deals, throughout numerous courtrooms, and danced his way through myriad Planning and Zoning Board meetings throughout New Hampshire. Gerry was also a longtime member of the Nashua Country Club, where he loved to play golf and dine with Estelle.

Gerry was an avid sports enthusiast. He played basketball and football in his youth, and these passions led him to several volunteer coaching positions. He started with coaching his son Rob’s Nashua biddy basketball team and CYO basketball team at the Parrish of the Resurrection. His passion for coaching influenced many youth in Nashua. Later he and Rob coached several AAU basketball teams together. When he retired as a coach, he stood tall and loud on the sidelines, even when it got him thrown out of a gym or two. Regardless of this, he always showed up for the next game (thank goodness the refs let him back in). His love for Bishop Guertin basketball (boys and girls) spanned over 40-years, and he was a fixture in the BG gym.

Gerry and Estelle raised a family of three children: Rob, Sarah, and Amy. His children grew up watching their parent’s love affair continuously grow and strengthen through good and tough times. Ask any of his children today and they will emphatically say that their parents were their absolute role models. Gerry gave much of himself to his community, but he always put his children first…and they knew it. He showed up to everything: games, art shows, births, Sunday morning coffee…everything. He taught his children what a kind and loving man is, how to look for one and how to be one. His grandchildren were often reminded that he was the exemplar and that “we all need to be more like Peperé”.

Bethany (Rob’s wife), Sean (Sarah’s husband), and Kelsey (Amy’s husband) are the extra children Gerry and Estelle always wanted. He treated them like a daughter and sons, and they consider Gerry their second dad. Gerry had nine grandchildren: Caley, Nick, Sam, and Tess (Rob and Bethany); Maisy (Sarah and Sean); Emerson, Jeremy, Jackson, and Tatum (Amy and Kelsey). They were the light of his life; they gave him so much joy and he made sure that each of them knew how special they were to him. Whether he was calling them simply to check in, showing up at their sports games, or dressing up as a zookeeper for Halloween – they felt his love.

Now comes the love story. Gerry always told his children about the blind date that changed his life. He saw Estelle walk down the stairs of her Fifield Street house and he immediately knew that he was going to marry her. Every time Estelle looks at their wedding picture she says there was no boy in Nashua that could compare to Gerry. They enjoyed 59-years of marriage. When they would walk by one another in the house, they would kiss. When they would drive together, they would hold hands. Even when they bickered, they never remembered it for long. They were best friends, lovers forever, and what their children aspire to be like. Gerry Prunier is an icon. His family will love him forever and continue to pass on his light.

Calling hours will be held at the FARWELL FUNERAL HOME, 18 Lock Street, Nashua on Monday, October 24^th from 2 to 4 and 6 to 9 p.m. and Tuesday, October 25^th from 4 to 7 p.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated in the Parish of the Resurrection, 449 Broad Street, Nashua, Wednesday, October 26^th at Noon. Kindly meet at the church. The family has requested that donations may be sent in Gerry’s memory to: https://familypromisesnh.org/ To leave an online message of condolence, please visit www.farwellfuneralservice.com

   Deborah Lee Magnuson, 65, of Hudson, wife of Russell T. Magnuson, passed away at her home, Monday evening, October 17, 2022 after a well fought battle with cancer.         

   Born in Nashua on October 25, 1956, she was a daughter of the late Raymond S. and Jean D. (Lavoie) Lavallee. “Debbie” grew up in Hudson and Nashua and was a graduate of Alvirne High School Class of 1974.

    Debbie began her career in the electronics industry working at various companies lastly with IKE and their successor MACOM Technology Solutions in Nashua.

    In her leisure time, Debbie enjoyed trips to Foxwoods, buying scratch tickets and spending as much time as she could with her children.

   Members of her family include her husband Russ, whom she married on September 4, 1982 and shared 40 years together; a daughter, Gina Lynn Magnuson of San Diego, CA; a son and daughter-in-law, Jesse Lee and Krystle Magnuson of Nashua; and a sister, Cheryl Hiz. In addition to her parents, Debbie was predeceased by a sister, Linda Bourdon.

    Calling hours will be held at the FARWELL FUNERAL HOME, 18 Lock Street, Nashua on Sunday afternoon, October 23^rd from 2 to 5 p.m. A Graveside service will take place at St. Patrick Cemetery, 71 Derry Road in Hudson, Monday morning at 11:30 a.m. Friends are invited to attend. To leave an online message of condolence, please visit www.farwellfuneralservice.com. Anyone who would like to donate to the family for services please visit https://gofund.me/dc3063ae

Normand Robert Pelletier, born July 23, 1946 of Hudson NH, passed away on October 15th, 2022 at the age of 76. He was surrounded by his family in a room full of love.
Son of the late Roland and Aurore (Soucy) Pelletier, he was one of seven children raised in a beautiful and caring home.

He is survived by his wife of 56 years Nadine (Daigle) Pelletier, his brother Roland and wife Sharrel Pelletier, his sister Sandra Pelletier, his sister Susan and her husband Randy Turmel, and brother in law Richard Nixon.

He was a dedicated loving father to five children, fifteen grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. He is survived by children Shelly Taschereau, Shannon Yoksh and fiancé James Smilikis, Shawna Pelletier, Jason Pelletier, and Shane and wife Kristen Pelletier; his grandchildren Shaina and husband Jeffrey Dennis, Gabrielle Saucier, Alexis Saucier, Brendon Yoksh, Alec and wife Haley Yoksh, Samuel Gallant, Kelsey Pelletier, Hunter Pelletier, Kayla Pelletier, Alaina Pelletier, Marc Berry Jr, Devin Berry, Isaiah Berry, and Elijah Berry; his great grandchildren Kendall Davis, Ariella Sullivan, Elianna Brautovich, and Louella Yoksh; also many loving nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

He was predeceased by his grandson Zachary Saucier, sister Beatrice and husband Frank Godbois, sister Linda Nixon, and brother Michael and wife Judy Pelletier, and son in-laws Joe Yoksh, Paul Taschereau, and Russ Saucier.

Normand was a vessel of love and a friend to all. He was an avid golfer who genuinely enjoyed the gift of life. He always prioritized his family, providing many cherished memories with summers at Goose Pond, road trips to Florida and the Dakotas, and adventures to Canada and Alaska.  His most admirable accomplishment was showing his children and grandchildren how to love and be loved; the greatest gift one can do for another. He treated all who came into his presence with respect and dignity and always found the good in others. He greeted everyone with warmth and the most genuine of smiles. Normand was always willing to lend a helping hand, eager to be of assistance. He will be remembered not by his earthly achievements but by his deep expression of love that will continue to grow from generation to generation.  His soul has now moved on to a peacefulness only the hands of God can provide, for which his family is eternally grateful.

There are no calling hours. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Wednesday, October 26^th at 10 a.m. at Immaculate Conception Church, 216 East Dunstable Road, Nashua. A Celebration of life will follow at Martha’s Exchange, 185 Main Street, Nashua at 11:30 a.m.   In lieu of flowers, if desired, donations can be made to the ALS Northern New England Chapter (online) or at  P.O. Box 207, Concord, NH 03302-0207. To leave an online message of condolence, please visit www.farwellfuneralservice.com.  Arrangements are in the care of the FARWELL FUNERAL SERVICE, 18 Lock Street, Nashua.

Barbara J. (Stevens) Katsiaficas, 92, of Nashua, widow of Nicholas J. Katsiaficas, passed away Tuesday, October 11, 2022 after a period of declining health.         

   A lifelong resident of Nashua, she was born on August 11, 1930, a daughter of the late Mervin E. and Evelyn Mae (Haskell) Stevens. Educated in local schools, Barbara graduated from Nashua High School Class of 1948 and continued her education at the former Nashua Women’s Business College. Barbara worked for Sprague Electric Co. in Nashua, after high school and was a department manager at Almy’s Department Store for over 10 years. She later became a part-time child care assistant teacher at the Nashua Adult Learning Center until her retirement.

    Barbara was a devoted wife and mother and a lifelong member of the Main Street United Methodist Church.

    In addition to her parents, Barbara was predeceased by her husband Nick, who passed away September 27, 1998. They were married on October 21, 1950 and shared nearly 48 wonderful years together.

    Barbara was involved in many activities with her children as they were growing up and volunteered in later years at St. Joseph Hospital, the Salvation Army and RSVP. She loved summer vacations at the beach with her family and enjoyed traveling with her daughter and granddaughter. “Gram”, as she was called, loved her children and grandchildren very much and was beloved by them.

   Members of her family include her four children and their spouses, James Katsiaficas and his wife Donna, Steven Katsiaficas, Jane L. Marquis and Jim Flynn, and Sam Katz; her grandchildren, Caitlin Katsiaficas, Nathan Katsiaficas, Jillian Marquis and Jacob Katsiaficas; two brothers, Mervin E. Stevens Jr. of Walpole, NH and David A. Stevens of Georgia; also many nieces, nephews and cousins. One of seven children, Barbara was also predeceased by two brothers, Henry Stevens and his wife Carole, and Donald W. Stevens; two sisters, Marilyn M. Schofield and her husband Ralph “Buddy” Schofield, and Carol L. Berry; and two sisters-in-law, Betty Stevens and Bobbi Stevens.

    Calling hours will be held at the FARWELL FUNERAL HOME, 18 Lock Street, Nashua on Monday, October 17^th from 4 to 8 p.m. Her funeral service will be held in the Main Street United Methodist Church, 154 Main St., Nashua, Tuesday morning at 11 o’clock. Interment will follow in Woodlawn Cemetery. Friends are invited to attend. To leave an online message of condolence, please visit www.farwellfuneralservice.com

   Colbee Adam Cammarata-Hodgman, 18, of Nashua, passed away Sunday afternoon, October 9, 2022, after a fall while hiking in Weare, NH.         

    Born in Nashua on February 29, 2004, Colbee attended elementary school in the Kearsarge region, and middle and high school in Nashua. “Cole” has been employed as a barista at Starbucks at the Nashua Mall for over two years where he enjoyed working with his colleagues and customers.

    Cole was a talented artist and had a passion for music and helping people. He adored his many friends and spent great times at concerts and having adventures in his short time here. He had aspirations of becoming a 911 Dispatcher, always being incredibly empathetic to people and fascinated with anatomy.

   Members of his family include his mother, Rachael M. (Doughty) Hodgman and her fiancé Erik Botsch; his father, Robert W. Hodgman Jr. and his significant other, Grace Rapetti; his brother, Carter Hodgman; his sister, Everly Hodgman; maternal grandparents, Ann and John Miles; paternal grandparents, Mary and Robert W. Hodgman Sr; also many aunts, uncles and cousins.

    Calling hours will be held at the FARWELL FUNERAL HOME, 18 Lock Street, Nashua on Saturday, October 15^th from 1 to 4 p.m. All are invited to attend. Close friends and family will gather at Martha’s Exchange (upstairs), 185 Main Street, Nashua, for a Celebration of Life for Colbee at 4 p.m. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Cole’s memory to the Ehlers Danlos Society https://www.ehlers-danlos.com/giving. To leave an online message of condolence, please visit www.farwellfuneralservice.com

Gerard L. “Jerry” Bedard, 71, passed away Wednesday, October 5, 2022, from complications with Covid-19. Born in Nashua, NH on April 1, 1951, to the late Lionel E. Bedard and Lucille (Rioux) Bedard. Jerry graduated from Nashua High School class of 1970. Jerry spent most of his life self employed as a floor and furniture refinisher; he was a master of his craft. Gerard resided most of his life on Snow Lane in Hollis, NH before relocating to Brookline, NH.

A devoted husband, father, and brother, Jerry is predeceased by wife of 40 years, Patrica Ann (Gibson) Bedard. He is survived by three sons Matthew Bedard, Adam Bedard, and Michael Bedard; his sister, Lorraine Frappier and her three children, Tracy Frappier, Tammy Frappier and Timothy Frappier; also aunts, uncles and cousins.

Jerry was a lover of all music and enjoyed playing acoustic guitar. He had a passion for photography, birdwatching, and nature in general. Jerry was an avid reader of history, politics and philosophy.

Calling hours will be held on Friday, October 14, 2022 from 5 to 8 p.m. at the FARWELL FUNERAL HOME, 18 Lock Street, Nashua. A Graveside service will be held in St. Francis Xavier Cemetery, 32 Pine Hill Avenue, Nashua, Monday, October 17^th at 11 a.m. Friends are invited to attend. To leave an online of message of condolence, please visit www.farwellfuneralservice.com

Robert A. “Bob” Maffee, died September 30^, 2022 surrounded by his family following a courageous battle with cancer.  He was born on March 31, 1953, in Nashua, NH son of the late Frank and Barbara (Anderson) Maffee.

Bob was a lifelong resident of Nashua.  He grew up working with his father and brothers at Maffee’s Garage.  While working at Maffee’s, Bob became well known as a foreign car specialist.  He met many fellow mechanics in the trade and never missed the opportunity to learn from them or help them out whenever possible.  Bob forged many lifelong friendships while at Maffee’s.  Many of those years, the lights were on, and the doors were unlocked throughout the evenings and into the early morning hours.  Given those circumstances, the shop served as a “home away from home” for many.

In 1983, Bob left the family business and founded Northern Foreign Car Parts.  Bob faced many obstacles early on at Northern, but through perseverance, and years of hard work, he grew NFCP into the successful business it is today.  He earned the respect of those who knew him in the automotive industry.

Bob was a quiet, humble, generous individual.   He was always willing to lend a hand and help when asked and did so without expecting any recognition.

Bob enjoyed his annual visits to Aruba, where he was able to unwind and enjoy beautiful weather and beaches.  He had many close friends that live on the island and looked forward to seeing them each visit.

When Bob wasn’t working at his business, he could usually be found working in his yard, gardening, or manicuring his lawn, which he enjoyed very much.

Bob enjoyed sports and for many years, found time to coach youth baseball.  He began coaching in the Nashua North Little League in 1972, at the age of 19.  At various times over the next three decades, Bob coached numerous championship teams.  He met many people through his involvement in youth baseball.  Some of whom became close friends for the remainder of his life.  During his tenure as a coach, he was well respected by coaches, umpires, and players, and he set a great example for the young players he coached.

Bob was a member of the Rising Sun Lodge #39 F & AM; Scottish Rite Bodies, Valley of Nashua and NH Consistory 32^nd degree and the Shriners of NH.  He was also a member of the First Church of Nashua, UCC.

Bob was predeceased by his brother and sister-in-law, Donald and Margaret Maffee and by his sister, Sandra Labonte.

He leaves behind his siblings: Dorothy and Ronald Gauthier, Thomas Maffee, Carol Maffee, Carla and Robert Pelletier, Barbara and Thomas Burnham, Leslie Maffee, Steven Maffee, Paula Alton, Sharon and Thomas Dion, a brother-in-law, Gerard Labonte and several nieces and nephews whom he adored.

Calling hours will be held at the FARWELL FUNERAL HOME, 18 Lock Street, Nashua on Friday, October 7^th from 4 to 7 p.m. His funeral service will be held in The First Church, One Concord Street, Nashua, Saturday morning at 10 o’clock. A reception will follow the service in Fellowship Hall. Friends are invited to attend. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in memory of Bob to the Shriners Children Hospital, 516 Carew Street, Springfield, MA  01104 or Home & Health & Hospice Care, 7 Executive Park Drive, Merrimack, NH  03054. To leave an online message of condolence, please visit www.farwellfuneralservice.com

   Lucille (Rioux) Bedard, 92, of Nashua, widow of Lionel E. Bedard, passed away Wednesday morning, September 28, 2022, after a period of declining health.         

   A lifelong resident of this city, Mrs. Bedard was born in Nashua on June 12, 1930, a daughter of the late Alphonse C. and Marie Ann (Cassista) Rioux. She was educated in Nashua schools and was a communicant of the former St. Francis Xavier Church. She worked for many years at Almy’s Department Store.

   She will be remembered as a loving wife, mother, sister, grandmother, great-grandmother and friend. Lucille enjoyed watching old movies, crocheting, playing cards, sitting on her side porch visiting with her neighbors and watching people walk by.

    In addition to her parents, Lucille was predeceased by her husband Lionel, who passed away July 10, 2021. They were married on April 30, 1949 and shared over 72 years together. She was also predeceased by a brother, Alphonse Rioux, Jr; a sister and brother-in-law, Mary Jane and Donald Girouard; and her daughter-in-law, Patricia Ann (Gibson) Bedard.

   Members of her family include her son, Gerard L. Bedard; her daughter, Lorraine Frappier; six grandchildren, Matthew Bedard, Adam Bedard, Michael Bedard, Tracy Frappier, Tammy Frappier and Timothy Frappier; six great-grandchildren, RJ, James, Lily, Scarlett, Daisy and Domenic; three sisters and two brothers, Pauline Lambert, Paul Rioux and his wife Anita, Sylvia Carroll and her husband Roy, Anita Beaulieu and her husband Ron, and Richard Rioux and his wife Laura; also many nieces and nephews; and her Godchild, Marie Boyer.

   There are no calling hours. A Graveside service will be held in St. Francis Xavier Cemetery, 32 Pine Hill Avenue, Nashua, Monday, October 17^th at 11 a.m. Friends are invited to attend. To leave an online message of condolence, please visit www.farwellfuneralservice.com Arrangements are in the care of the FARWELL FUNERAL SERVICE, 18 Lock Street, Nashua.  

   Exilia E. “Dida” Manley, 86, of Nashua, widow of George R. Manley, Jr., passed away early Tuesday morning, September 27, 2022 at the Courville at Nashua after a period of declining health.         

    Born in Nashua on July 10, 1936, she was a daughter of the late Joseph A. and Eleanor (Elwell) Larouche. A lifelong resident of this city, Dida was educated Nashua schools and had been employed with Sprague Electric Company, CVS Pharmacy, Alexander’s Supermarket and Crosby Bakery.

   In addition to her parents, Dida was predeceased by her husband George, who passed away on April 6, 1992; and her sisters, Ruth E. Forcier, Gladys Carpenter and Phyllis Graber.

   Members of her family include nieces and nephews, Doreen S. and Gerard F. Pombrio of Litchfield, Gail and Steve Crosby of Nashua, Sally and Frank Clay of Hudson, Judy Higgins and her husband Randy Bracci of Wilton; and many grandnieces and grandnephews.

    There are no calling hours. Private interment will take place at St. Patrick Cemetery in Hudson. To leave an online message of condolence, please visit www.farwellfuneralservice.com Arrangements are in the care of the FARWELL FUNERAL SERVICE, 18 Lock Street, Nashua. 

William Roger Canny, a long-time resident of Nashua, New Hampshire, died peacefully but unexpectedly at his home on September 27, 2022.
Born on August 8, 1937 in South Boston, Massachusetts, Bill was a son of the late Roger and Mary Ellen (Duffy) Canny, immigrants from County Donegal, Ireland.
Bill is survived by his son Liam Canny of Surrey, England, his daughter and son-in-law, Eileen and Michael Kelly of Groton, Massachusetts, his beloved grandchildren, Patrick and Megan Kelly, and his sisters Patricia (Canny) Donnell, Anna (Canny) Tedeschi, his sisters in law Margaret Canny, Judith Canny, Carol Canny, Eileen Twigg, as well as several nieces and nephews. Bill was pre-deceased by Maureen, his beloved wife of 47 years, and his brothers John, James, Daniel, and his sisters Catherine, Mary and Frances.

Proud of his South Boston roots, Bill was a graduate of Gate of Heaven High School where he played varsity basketball and baseball. As a young man, he loved to play baseball at M Street Park in an era that pre-dated organized leagues.
Bill graduated from Northeastern University in 1960 with a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration. He worked for Raytheon Corporation for most of his professional career.
Bill is remembered for his selfless dedication to youth development in the City of Nashua. For over 30 years, he coached the St Christopher’s parish basketball teams in the Nashua Deanery CYO league. For over a decade, he coached minor league baseball in the Nashua Parks and Recreation Department. For a few seasons, he even coached soccer in the Nashua Y League although he knew little about the sport. A volunteer coach, he spent countless hours faithfully dedicated to the character development of the young people of Nashua through the medium of sport.

An enthusiastic traveller, Bill visited numerous countries with his family. A communicant of St. Christopher’s Catholic Church, he was also a faithful member of the Club National where he forged long-lasting friendships. A diehard sports fan, he had a deep allegiance to the Red Sox, Celtics, Bruins and Notre Dame. Renowned for his intelligence, warmth and wit, Bill was an avid reader who loved to regale visitors on any number of stories from history. He was a fountain of knowledge of Canny and Duffy family history. He also enjoyed reciting poetry and loved to sing solo or along with the crowd. Possessing a boundless joie-de-vivre, Bill was one of life’s great characters. Generous with his hospitality, he loved the company of others. Nimble-minded and larger than life, he loved to recount captivating tales where he never let the truth get in the way of a good story. Bill Canny will be sorely missed by family, friends, and neighbors.

Calling hours will be held at the FARWELL FUNERAL HOME, 18 Lock Street, Nashua on Sunday afternoon, October 2^nd from 2:00 to 5:30 p.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated in St. Christopher Church, 62 Manchester Street, Nashua, Monday morning at 11 o’clock. Interment will follow in Edgewood Cemetery. Friends are invited to attend. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his memory to the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation at www.jdrf.org  To leave an online message of condolence, please visit www.farwellfuneralservice.com Arrangements are in the care of the FARWELL FUNERAL SERVICE

Willard Norman Young, 89, of Hudson, New Hampshire passed away peacefully at home on September 25, 2022 surrounded by his family, after a long battle with cancer.  He was born in South Paris, ME to the late Willard H. Young and Lillian (Hilden) Auchterlonie.  He was predeceased by his wife of 41 years Eleanor (Kane) Young.  He was a devoted family man survived by three daughters; Marion Kraemer and her husband Sean of Belton, TX, Elaine Stone of Webster, MA and Cindy Spagnuola and her husband John of Narragansett, RI; he was a loving grandfather to six grandchildren, Adam, Kristen, Kevin, Allison, Lindsay and Lauren; he is also survived by his sister, Debra Smith and her husband Brent of Portland, ME;  his companion, Kathy Brassil of Nashua, NH. In addition to his wife and parents, Will was predeceased by his brother William.

He enjoyed spending summers with family at Young’s Turkey Farm and at the family camp on Norway Lake in Maine. After high school, he served four years in the U.S. Air Force and was recently recognized by the Quilts of Valor Foundation for his service.  Following his military service, he spent 32 years working as an air traffic controller for the Federal Aviation Agency.  Will resided in Hudson for 60 years and spent much of that time nobly serving his community.  He served on the Hudson Budget Committee and was a State Representative in the New Hampshire House of Representatives.  During his 50 years of active membership with the Hudson Lions Club he served as President, Secretary and Chairman of the Road Clean-up Committee.  He volunteered his time at Bingo, fundraising dinners, and as an annual bell ringer for the Salvation Army. The Lions Club recently dedicated an Exam room in his name at the newly built CTE Center at Alvirne High School.  Will also served on the Board of Directors for the American Legion and was a proud member of the Firing Detail for military honors.  He was a parishioner at Main Street Methodist Church in Nashua and enjoyed volunteering at their ham and bean suppers.  He was also an avid hunter and gardener who enjoyed sharing his vegetables and flowers with family, friends, and neighbors.

A Graveside service and Air Force Honors will take place at St. Patrick Cemetery, 71 Derry Road, Route 102 in Hudson, Thursday, September 29^th at 11 a.m. Friends are invited to attend. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Hudson Lions Club for their college scholarship fund.  (Hudson Lions Club, P.O. Box 3, Hudson, NH 03051) To leave an online message of condolence, please visit www.farwellfuneralservice.com Arrangements are in the care of the FARWELL FUNERAL SERVICE, 18 Lock Street, Nashua.

Shirley Clarke Tamposi, 96, died September 17, 2022, at home with her loving husband, Jim and her children by her side. Born in Somerville, MA on August 3, 1926, she was the daughter of Goodhand and Rebecca (Bursey) Clarke. She was a resident of Nashua since her marriage and spent forty years wintering in Crystal River, FL.

After graduating from Mount Ida Junior College, she thoroughly enjoyed her working years at Mass General Hospital.

She married James N. Tamposi in 1953 and became an active citizen of Nashua, first working at Sanders Associates and then while raising her four sons. For many years she volunteered at Nashua Memorial Hospital where she served as secretary to the Auxiliary and also enjoyed weekly service with her sister, Anne, in the hospital coffee shop. Most importantly, Shirley was a devoted wife, mother, and friend to many. She was a positive, joyful soul who will be missed by all. She was deeply loved by her survivors, including her husband, Jim, who turned 103 in June, and her sons, James N. Tamposi Jr. and wife Meredith, Douglas C. Tamposi and wife Anne, Jon J. Tamposi and wife Mary, and Robert W. Tamposi and his partner, Michelle Cool.

Additionally, she leaves nine grandchildren and one great-grandchild, with whom she shared her love of cards, cribbage, tennis, and all things fun and family. She also leaves her fun-loving, best friend, daughter-she-never-had, Judith Barker McGonagle.

Shirley was predeceased by her sister, Anne Parkhurst of Hollis, and her brothers, G. Arthur Clarke of Foxboro, MA, G. Herbert Clarke of Avon, CT and William Taggard of Long Beach, CA.

Shirley’s family also wishes to acknowledge the care and kindness provided by all of her care-givers, including nieces Carol Studley, Martha Lancourt, and Judy Clarke.

At Shirley’s request, services will be held at a later date.  Anyone who wishes may make a donation in her honor, may do so to the NH Aviation Museum at 27 Navigator Road, Londonderry, NH 03053.

To leave an online condolence message, please visit www.farwellfuneralservice.com.  Arrangements are under the direction of the Farwell Funeral Service, Inc. 18 Lock St., Nashua, NH.

Veda Ann (Noel) Henry was called home on September 15^th, 2022, surrounded by her loving family in her home. Veda was born on December 14, 1941 in York, Pennsylvania. She attended local grade and high school and loved singing in the choral group. After high school, she attended Millersville University in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, and received a degree in education. She then taught elementary school in York, Pennsylvania, Baltimore, Maryland, and Alburgh, VT as part of the teacher corp. She earned her Master of Education degree from the University of Vermont, and then taught at Juvenile Hall in Orange California.

Veda met and married her beloved husband Edgar Henry Jr. (Sam) on October 28, 1972. She and Sam had two sons, Edgar III and Joseph while living in Des Plaines, Illinois. The family lived in Des Plaines and Alburgh, Vermont before settling in Nashua, New Hampshire in 1982.

For thirty-five years, Veda taught at the Adult Learning Center in Nashua. She loved her students and even after retiring continued tutoring until one month prior to her death. She loved working with students who needed her help the most. Veda was a committed volunteer at the Nashua Food Pantry, donating vegetables from their family garden. Veda attended Arlington Street Methodist Church and sang in the church choir. She loved attending church suppers, craft fairs, and her church community.

Veda was predeceased by her parents, Robert and Sybella Noel and her brother K. Robert Noel of York, PA. She is survived by niece Jan Noel Gumerlock, niece Nan Noel, nephew Jon and (wife) Liz Noel, sister-in-law Ann Noel, a beloved aunt Faye Kinley and Uncle Rod, and many cousins.

Veda was loving, kind, forgiving, polite, and the sweetest wife and mother. She loved her family dearly. Veda’s glitter was from the inside, she always looked out for others and was as reliable as the sun and stars. She hosted weekly Sunday family dinners for more than 20 years after her sons moved out. She will be dearly missed by her community and family, but most of all by her husband, Sam, and their two sons, Sam and Joe.

Veda was an avid reader and loved to write letters. She kept in contact with more than twelve college friends for more than 50 years, with countless cards, letters, emails, and reunions. Even during her recent illness, she never missed a birthday, sending cards and letters to all she loved. She enjoyed buying gifts and perfectly wrapping them for all occasions. She loved to plant and care for her flowers, especially Zinnias. She will be buried holding a small bouquet of the Zinnias she planted and tended this summer. She never showed up empty handed to any gathering, and frequently made a Pennsylvania Dutch dish to share.

The family would like to thank Home Health and Hospice Care of Merrimack, NH for their loving and supportive hospice care. Her final wish was to pass at home surrounded by her family, and this was possible due to their support. Sam and his sons would also like to thank their niece Willow “the paragon of healthcare” and nephew Kevin Henry, for providing round the clock care to keep her comfortable in her final days.

Calling hours will be held at the FARWELL FUNERAL HOME, 18 Lock Street, Nashua on Monday, September 19^th from 4 to 7 p.m. Her funeral service will be held in the Arlington Street United Methodist Church, 63 Arlington Street, Nashua, Tuesday morning at 10:30 a.m. Interment will take place at the Henry Farm Family Cemetery, Henry Road in Alburg, Vermont, Thursday, Sept. 22^nd  at 11 a.m. All are welcome to attend at all locations. There will be a luncheon following the interment in Alburg Springs, please join us. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to: The Adult Learning Center at 4 Lake Street, Nashua, NH 03060. To leave an online message of condolence please visit www.farwellfuneralservice.com