Author Archives: Dana Farwell

Iris Eastwick, beloved and cherished Wife, Mother, Grandmother, and Great Grandmother closed her eyes in Nashua NH on April 29^th and when she opened them, she was in Heaven. She will be greatly missed by all who knew her!

Iris above all else loved the Lord Jesus Christ and lived her faith out daily. She always had an encouraging word, a bible verse, and a prayer to offer.  She treasured God’s Word and would often quote Scripture like Proverbs 3: 5-8 that says: Trust in the Lord with all your heart, lean not unto your own understanding.  In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will direct your paths. He certainly did direct her life’s path in so many ways – she lived a long and full life.

Born in Barking, Essex, England on May 19, 1929, she was raised by Ruby and William Comte, along with two siblings Olive and David.  They all lived through the ravages of WW II as children.  It is rumored she met the love of her life Maurice, while they were still in their baby carriages, or so the story goes. At the age of 24 she married Maurice and began a 68-year romance that would see them live around the world. She had citizenship in England, Canada, the United States, and now has most importantly in Heaven.  Homemaker, secretary, missionary, pastor’s wife, bible study leader, counselor, and a loving mother who raised three children: Suzanne, Simon, and Sarah. She adored and loved her ten grandchildren and five great-grandchildren so much.

An avid cook she was often seen in the kitchen making meals and desserts like scones and raspberry trifles to serve at afternoon teas.  Around the holidays, she would make British treats like Christmas pudding, mincemeat pies, and fruit cake that would rival any.  She loved to host people, share cups of tea, and most importantly, share her faith in God.  We will miss her sweet smile, optimistic outlook, and her lingering warm embraces. 
She will be buried on Friday May 7, 2021 and a celebration of her life will be held at Pepperell Christian Fellowship (PCF) in Pepperell MA.  Due to Covid regulations, in person attendance is limited and by invitation only.  However, there will be a live stream of the service, details at pcfchurch.org. Instead of flowers the family requests you consider donating in her name to Real Options Nashua at realoptionsNh.org or to the Southern New Hampshire Rescue Mission at hope4nashua.org, two of her favorite local charities.  Arrangements are in the care of the FARWELL FUNERAL SERVICE, 18 Lock Street, Nashua. www.farwellfuneralservice.com

   Andre Arthur Morneau, 76, of Londonderry, passed on to His Father in heaven on Saturday, April 17^th surrounded by love.            

   Born in Greenville, New Hampshire on September 12, 1944, he was a son of the late Arthur and Aline (Caron) Morneau. “Andy” graduated from Appleton Academy in 1963 and went on to serve in the US Air Force as a communications specialist from 1963 to 1967. After his military service, he attended the University of Lowell and went on to work for Sanders Associates in Nashua, Lockheed Martin, and finally BAE Systems as an engineer for over 40 years.

    Andy had a lifelong passion for ham radio and for so many will be remembered as K1YMH. He reached out to and made friends all over the world. After retirement, Andy served in Londonderry on the Beautify Londonderry Committee.

    One of his greatest joys was joining the Harmonica Saints and performing for those who needed smiles the most in nursing homes and assisted living communities. Shy Andy would absolutely nail Elvis as he sang many of his songs to an appreciative audience.

     He was also proud of his French-Canadian heritage belonging to the French Coterie in Nashua. Andy was a communicant of St. Mark the Evangelist Church in Londonderry and a member of the Men of St. Joseph.

     Andy was a wonderful husband of 46 years to his loving wife Pamela and devoted and loving Dad to his son Daniel Morneau of Londonderry, and daughter Mary and son-in-law Samuel Chase of Rochester, NH. Most of all, God gave him the special gift of a beautiful granddaughter, Gemma, that was the sunshine of his life. He is also survived by his much-loved sisters, Constance Levesque of Nashua and Sr. Gloria Morneau of St. Hyacinthe, Canada. He was predeceased by his parents, a baby brother, and his dear friend and brother-in-law, Raymond Levesque. Andy leaves behind his sweet buddy, “Moose” the cat.

    His legacy is one of caring, compassion and love to all those who knew him and those whom he prayed for every day. He prayed daily for everyone in the world who was suffering and that is what made him so special. Andy had a deep faith in God in Whose Hands he is now resting. He will be so missed by his family and all those who knew and loved him so much.

    The family will receive relatives and friends at St. Mark the Evangelist Church, 1 South Road in Londonderry on Thursday, April 22^nd from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at eleven thirty. Interment will take place at Sacred Heart Cemetery in Greenville on Saturday. Donations may be made in his memory to the New Hampshire Food Bank, 700 East Industrial Park Drive, Manchester, NH 03109 or the Nashua Senior Center, 70 Temple Street, Nashua, NH 03060. Arrangements are in the care of the FARWELL FUNERAL SERVICE, 18 Lock Street, Nashua. www.farwellfuneralservice.com 

   George N. Petropulos, 88, of Hudson, NH, passed away Tuesday morning, April 6, 2021 at the Community Hospice House in Merrimack, NH after a brief illness.

    Born in North Adams, Massachusetts on October 29, 1932, he was a son of the late Nicholas and Loretta (Chenail) Petropulos. A graduate of Drury High School, Class of 1950, George was a football, track and basketball standout, and was recruited to play football for Boston University on a full athletic scholarship. He later transferred to North Adams Teachers College, where he played basketball and received his bachelor’s degree in 1954.

    He entered the Army in September 1954 and served as a supply specialist with the 10^th transport group of the 7^th Army in Germany and held the rank of Private First Class. While in Germany, George became a top football official with the American forces in that country. In 1955, as a member of the US Army Europe Athletic Officials Association, he officiated at several high-profile championship games in both Frankfurt and Mannheim, Germany, attended by more than 20,000 fans.

   After serving his country, he furthered his education and earned a master’s degree in education from North Adams State College. George became a teacher and spent the next 35 years educating students in the North Adams school system, retiring in 1991. Over this time, he taught at Freeman School, Brayton Junior High School, where he was also the vice-principal and Drury High School. Beloved by his students, he was also the high school golf coach for 20 years. His teams won two Western Massachusetts Championships in 1992 and 1993.

    An avid golfer, George loved hitting the links at Waubeeka Springs Golf Course with his sons and friends where he was a former club champion. He had multiple “holes-in-ones”, multiple double-eagles and held the amateur course record for years, shooting a 7 under par 65.

    In 1994, George and his wife, Mary relocated to Florida, where they resided for over twenty years before moving to Hudson, NH in July of 2017. A devoted husband, father and grandfather, George loved spending time with family, and especially loved “bragging” about his grandchildren. He was a communicant of St. Kathryn Church in Hudson.

    He was predeceased by his wife of 63 years, Mary (McDonnell) Petropulos, who passed away on February 26^th of this year; and his brother, Stephen Petropulos.

    Members of his family include his five children and their spouses, David and Maren Petropulos of Amherst, NH and their children, Tyler and David Jr. and his wife, Marguerite; James and Lynda Petropulos of Hollis, NH and their children, Christopher and his fiancé Rosalind Barrett, Alexander and Olivia; Karen and Thomas Coffey of Merrimack, NH and their daughters, Jennifer and Joanne; Sara and John Muckstadt of Dover, MA and their children, Dana and John; and Nicholas and Elizabeth Petropulos of Hancock, MA and their sons, Andrew and Owen. In addition to his children, he leaves behind a sister, Catherine Foster of North Adams, MA.

     There are no calling hours. A memorial Mass is being planned and will be held at a future date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Community Hospice House, c/o Home Health and Hospice Care, 7 Executive Park Drive, Merrimack, NH 03054. Arrangements are in the care of the FARWELL FUNERAL SERVICE, 18 Lock Street, Nashua, NH. www.farwellfuneralservice.com 

   Robert L. Boucher, 89, a longtime Nashua resident, passed away Saturday evening, April 3, 2021 at St. Joseph Hospital after a period of declining health.            

   Born in Bath, Maine on August 6, 1931, he was the son of the late Leo Joseph and Mildred Alice (McQuarrie) Boucher. “Bob” was a graduate of Morse High School in Bath, Class of 1949. Following his graduation, he served in Air Force during the Korean War from 1949 to 1953 and was stationed in The Philippines from 1950 to 1952.

   A resident of Nashua since the mid 1950’s, Bob was employed with the Bemis Company in East Pepperell, MA for 40 years in its graphic arts department.

    Bob held memberships in the Knights of Columbus, Nashua Council 11907 and the American Legion, James E. Coffey Post 3. He was a communicant of St. Patrick Church and was a former usher at the 4 o’clock mass on Saturday for many years.

     In his leisure time, Bob enjoyed traveling with his wife Estelle, throughout New England and his home state of Maine where they loved to dine at seafood restaurants. He also enjoyed trips to Lake George, NY, attending agricultural and church fairs and watching game shows. Bob was well liked by his co-workers and friends from church.

     Besides his parents, Bob was predeceased by his sister and brother-in-law, Patricia E. and Edward Young Jr.; an uncle, James McQuarrie; an aunt, Eva Koski; and brother-in-law, Maurice Ouellette.

     Members of his family include his wife of 61 years, Estelle C. (St. Onge) Boucher, whom he married at the former St. Francis Xavier Church on August 22, 1959; a daughter and son-in-law, Kathleen L. and Stephen Busby of Merrimack; two grandsons, Christopher and Nicholas Busby of Merrimack; a nephew, Edward V. Young, III; two aunts, Virginia McQuarrie of Bath, ME and Sylvia Boucher of Nashua; sister-in-law, Dorraine “Do” Ouellette of Nashua; and several cousins.

    The family wishes to express their sincere and heartfelt gratitude to Bob’s caregivers, Denise, Anzheliza, Warren and Josh for their care, kindness and support.

    Family and friends are invited to call at the FARWELL FUNERAL HOME, 18 Lock Street, Nashua on Monday, April 12^th from 10 to 11 a.m. followed by a prayer service at 11 o’clock. Interment will take place in St. Francis Xavier Cemetery.  Donations may be made in his memory to a charity of one’s choice. Arrangements are in the care of the FARWELL FUNERAL SERVICE.  www.farwellfuneralservice.com

   Dorothy L. “Doty” Henderson, 84, of Nashua, widow of William L. Henderson, passed away Tuesday afternoon, March 30, 2021 at Catholic Medical Center in Manchester. Even though a failing heart took her away from this world, her loving heart left a beacon of light for all who knew her.           

   Mrs. Henderson was born in Pittsfield, NH on July 18, 1936, a daughter of the late Arthur and Lucienne (Genest) St. George. A longtime resident of Nashua, Dorothy also made her home in Milford, NH and Gilman, VT. She attended St. Francis Xavier and St. Louis de Gonzague Parochial Schools and was a graduate of St. Louis High School for Girls.   

   Dorothy had worked in various manufacturing positions and been employed with Sanders Associates, Inc.in Nashua for several years.

   She enjoyed travelling as much as possible to places like Hawaii, Aruba, Arizona, Virginia and Florida but mostly enjoyed spending time with her family and friends. Dorothy also was a pet lover and had pets her whole life.

    In addition to her parents, Dorothy was predeceased by her husband “Bill” who passed away December 29, 2008. They were married on April 23, 1955 and shared 53 years together. She was also predeceased by a son, Gary S. Henderson, Sr; two grandchildren, Samantha Brown and Kevin Henderson Jr.; a great-grandchild, Damien; and her sister, Dolores Anderson.

    Dorothy is survived by her two brothers, Richard St. George and his wife Carole from Yuma Arizona and Lucien St. George from Nashua.: three sons and three daughters-in-law, William A. and Connie (Moreau) Henderson of Milford, Kevin Henderson, Sr. and Rachel of Florida, and Scott and Tanja (Jewel) Henderson of Lexington, VA.: grandchildren, Gary Jr. and his wife Hilary Henderson, Melissa (Henderson) and her husband Drew Reeves, Richard, William and Christopher Henderson and his wife Shealyn.  Kierstyn (Henderson) and her husband Zachary Williamson.:  great-grandchildren, Hayley, Skye, Xavier, Charlotte, Zachary and Lorelai.  Jade, Madison and Lyra. Hunter and Emma. Vivianne and Ethan Reeves, and Lillian Case; also many nieces, nephews and cousins.

    Calling hours will be held at the FARWELL FUNERAL HOME, 18 Lock Street, Nashua on Tuesday, April 6th from 6 to 8 p.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated in St. Louis de Gonzague Church, 50 West Hollis Street, Nashua on Wednesday at 10 a.m. Friends are invited to attend. Interment will take place at the New Hampshire State Veterans Cemetery at a later date.  Arrangements are in the care of the FARWELL FUNERAL SERVICE, 18 Lock Street, Nashua. www.farwellfuneralservice.com 

     Muriel Jacqueline Francoeur, 95, “The Hat Lady”, left this world on Thursday, March 25, 2021. Muriel was born on August 9, 1925 in Nashua, NH, the daughter of Oscar and Corona (Casavant) Neveu.           

    Muriel attended St. Francis Xavier parochial grammar school and graduated from high school at Our Lady of Angels Academy in Montreal. She received her nursing diploma from Carney Hospital in 1947 and later achieved a Bachelor’s Degree from Rivier College.

   Her working career started out in the Operating Room at Carney Hospital in Dorchester, MA. After moving back to Nashua to get married, she then was employed as a registered nurse at St. Joseph Hospital and the old Memorial Hospital now known as Southern New Hampshire Medical Center.

    Muriel was a unique woman with a huge heart, adventurous spirit, and was interested in everything. She read from a variety of books, ranging from history to gardening. She could be seen reading her beloved Nashua Telegraph then dissecting it with her ever-present scissors. Articles of interest were pinned to a cork board for later reference.  Schooling and learning were an obsession to her. She was a student until she completed her formal education in her sixties.

     A mother of five, she took time to entertain her children by planning camping trips, a week or two at Hampton Beach and day trips to Silver Lake.

      Muriel never a met a person who she didn’t like or who she wouldn’t help. She was a selflessly dedicated aid to the underprivileged. She was there for them, no matter what languages they spoke, or what color they were. As a result she received a framed certificate from President Richard Nixon for her dedication to the needy of Nashua.

      Muriel was always known as the lady with the hats. Over the years, she collected hundreds of hats, mostly with wide brims decorated with flowers. Her excuse was that she was a redhead and needed protection from the sun. The hats of course, needed to be accompanied by her orange lipstick!

     There was never a day that she was not optimistic and smiling. Gardening was a love that she pursued throughout her life. Her favorite flowers were her roses, from which she was known.  She made many faithful friends in the Nashua Garden Club. Some club members continued to send her cards and notes while she was living at Langdon Place after her husband’s death in 2012.

     Muriel loved shopping, often leaving the house early and returning for dinner with a multitude of bulging bags. She was a bargain hunter extraordinaire, and could often be seen at Rich’s Department Store or Building 19. There wasn’t a coupon that she wouldn’t clip!

   Muriel is survived by her children: Frances Bell and her husband, Robert of Nashua, Norman Francoeur of Jersey City, NJ, Philip Francoeur and his wife, Doris of Milford, George Francoeur and his wife, Sherry of Amherst, and Marguerite and her husband Paul Fuiek of Snellville, GA; grandchildren: Jenna Bell and her husband Mitch of St. Petersburg, FL, Courtney and her husband Robert Lee of Middleton, MA, Lauren and her husband Leo Tecosky of Brooklyn, NY, Amie Winer and her husband Stephen of Goffstown, NH, and George Francoeur Jr. of Amherst, NH; great-grandchildren: Hannah and Lizzy Lee of Middleton, MA, Reeve and Sloan Mortenson of St. Petersburg, FL, Augustus “Augie” Winer of Goffstown, NH and Coretta Tecosky of Brooklyn, NY.

    Muriel was predeceased by her husband, Reginald; her brother, Maurice Neveu; and step-brother, George Grondin.

    We will miss you, Mom and will be reminded of you when the roses bloom. We know that you are now free and enjoying driving again, probably with Memere, heading up to Canada.

    A Graveside Service took place at St. Francis Xavier Cemetery in Nashua on Tuesday, March 30^th. Arrangements were in the care of the FARWELL FUNERAL SERVICE, 18 Lock Street, Nashua. www.farwellfuneralservice.com

   Thomas J. Lones, 83, of Nashua, passed away peacefully in his sleep Wednesday morning, March 24, 2021, one day after his 83^rd birthday. Tom is survived by his beloved wife of 64 years, Annette J. (Cote) Lones of Nashua, NH and his brother, Clifford Lones.            

   Born in Nashua on March 23, 1938, he was a son of the late Thomas R. and Ruth (Lavoie) Lones. Tom was predeceased by his two brothers, Carl and Linas; and his sister, Shirley Betts. He will be missed by many sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law and countless nieces and nephews.  

   Thomas attended Nashua High School and later was stationed in Lincoln, Nebraska with the U.S. Air Force as an Airman 2^nd Class. Tommy “The Tiger” also known as “Happy”, worked for Clyde Garfield Oldsmobile-Cadillac in Nashua for twenty years.  

   As a crossing guard, in his retirement years, he brightened the days of students, faculty and parents. When not doing that, he loved spending time with family, his fur babies, and gardening. Tom always had a huge heart for animals and children and cared for them both deeply.

   Tommy was a huge fan of New England sports, and really loved watching the Red Sox and the Patriots, with a big bowl of vanilla ice cream.

    In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his name to St. Jude Children’s Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN or the Humane Society for Greater Nashua, 24 Ferry Road, Nashua, NH 03064.  Arrangements are in the care of the FARWELL FUNERAL SERVICE, 18 Lock Street, Nashua. www.farwellfuneralservice.com 

    Cynthia Ruth Ratoff, 87, of Nashua, widow of Robert R. Ratoff, passed away Sunday evening, March 21, 2021 at The Inn at Fairview, after a period of declining health.           

   A resident of Nashua for many years, she was born in Medford, Massachusetts on January 28, 1934, a daughter of the late Stanley and Helen (Barry) Marshall. Cynthia was a graduate of Medford High School and had been employed as a secretary for Tufts Medical Center in Boston and later at the Pilgrim Congregational Church in Nashua.  

   In addition to her parents, Cynthia was predeceased by her husband Bob, who passed away May 27, 2018. They were married in Nashua on July 15, 1985 and shared over 32 years together.

   Members of her family include a daughter, Deborah Kennedy; and a son, Marc Kerouac.       

  Private interment took place at Pinewood Cemetery in Nashua.  Arrangements are in the care of the FARWELL FUNERAL SERVICE, 18 Lock Street, Nashua. www.farwellfuneralservice.com

   Mary Joyce Axton, 79, of Nashua, passed away Thursday evening, March 18, 2021 at Fairview Nursing Home in Hudson, after a period of declining health.    

   A lifelong resident of this city, Mary was born on April 4, 1941, a daughter of the late William and Antosia (Kuczynska) Axton. Educated in local schools, she was a graduate of Nashua High School Class of 1959.       

   Mary began her career as a teenager at Nashua Corporation, where she worked her way up to an executive position until her retirement in December 2003 at age 62.

   An avid Red Sox and Patriots fan, Mary enjoyed her vegetable gardens, bird watching and collecting little Piglets. She also loved spending time at Hampton Beach, especially with her granddaughter, Megan.

   Mary was a communicant of St. Louis de Gonzague Church and the former St. Casimir Church.    

   Members of her family include her son and daughter-in-law, James P. and Erin Axton of Pepperell, MA; her granddaughter, Megan Axton; her sisters, Sandra Axton and Carole Axton both of Nashua; and several cousins.

   There are no calling hours. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated in St. Louis de Gonzague Church, 50 West Hollis Street, Nashua, Wednesday morning, March 24^th at 10 o’clock. Interment will follow at St. Patrick Cemetery in Hudson. Friends are invited to attend. Arrangements are in the care of the FARWELL FUNERAL SERVICE, 18 Lock Street, Nashua. www.farwellfuneralservice.com 

Armand A. DeLuca, 79, of Newbury, MA, passed away early Wednesday morning, March 17, 2021 at Anna Jaques Hospital in Newburyport, MA after a brief illness.            

   Born in Lawrence, Massachusetts on May 26, 1941, he was the son of the late Dionisio and Maria (Varnese) DeLuca. Armand was a graduate of Lawrence High School Class of 1959 and graduated from Merrimack College.

   Armand was employed with BAE Systems in Merrimack, NH as a finance manager for many years.

    A resident of Plum Island for the past 32 years, he and his wife Rumi, wintered in Hollywood Beach, Florida. In his leisure time, Armand enjoyed antiquing and collecting Oriental rugs. He was a very devoted husband, enjoyed spending time with his longtime friends and loved his dogs, JoJo and Sandy.

    Members of his family include his wife of 29 years, Rumi (Shiroki) DeLuca, whom he married on November 15, 1991 at Alvirne Chapel in Hudson, NH; his daughters, Kimberly Holman and her husband David, and Karah Spence; five grandchildren, Blake, Madison and Turner Goodwin, Takoda Spence and Brock Holman; his father-in-law, Russell W. Dudley; and nieces, Lisa Fisher, Lynne O’Neill and Julie Richardson. In addition to his parents, Armand was predeceased by his sister, Theresa Pelliccione.

     Calling hours will be held at the FARWELL FUNERAL HOME, 18 Lock Street, Nashua, NH on Thursday, March 25^th from 4 to 7 p.m. A Graveside Service will take place in the Spring at East Cemetery in Hollis, NH. Donations may be made in his memory to St. Jude Children’s Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105. USA/donors@stjude.org

   Arrangements are in the care of the FARWELL FUNERAL SERVICE, 18 Lock Street, Nashua. www.farwellfuneralservice.com

     Lucienne R. “Lu” Cardin, 92, of Nashua, passed away peacefully Wednesday morning, March 17, 2021 at Elliott Hospital in Manchester, with her loving family by her side.

     Mrs. Cardin was born in Goffstown on February 20, 1929, a daughter of the late Juliette Denoncourt. She grew up in Milford and was a graduate of Milford High School Class of 1949. Lu continued her education at Memorial Hospital School of Nursing, graduating in 1952 as a licensed practical nurse.

    A longtime resident of Nashua, Lu was employed as a nurse at Memorial Hospital now known as Southern New Hampshire Medical Center for 57 years, retiring at the age of 80.

    In her leisure time, Lu enjoyed trips to the casinos and the beach, and camping in Columbia, NH. She especially loved family gatherings, her little apartment, preparing special meals and cuddling with her kitty, Sophie.

    Lu left this life and entered into the arms of our Lord quietly. We will love and miss her until we meet again.

    Members of her family include her four children and their spouses, John C. and Jane Cardin of Nashua, Pastor Steven S. and Patricia Cardin of Palmer, Alaska, Kathleen M. and Kenneth Swenson of Manchester, with whom she recently made her home; and William T. and Dawn Cardin of Nashua; eleven grandchildren, Bonny Bowles, Holly McLean, Joshua Cardin, Rebecca Eichorst, Michael Cardin, Ashley Cardin, Kenny Swenson, Nicholas Cardin, Katana Cardin, Paige Cardin and Kendall Cardin; also great-grandchildren; a brother, Albert Sullivan; a sister, Georgette Guay; and many nieces and nephews. Lu was predeceased by her sister, Mary Leach of Milford.

     Calling hours will be held at the FARWELL FUNERAL HOME, 18 Lock Street, Nashua on Monday, March 22^nd from 9 to 11 a.m. followed by her funeral service at 11 o’clock. Interment will follow in Woodlawn Cemetery. Family and friends are invited to attend.

    Arrangements are in the care of the FARWELL FUNERAL SERVICE, 18 Lock Street, Nashua. www.farwellfuneralservice.com

   Jack Wayne Hillyard, 82, a longtime Hudson resident and businessman, passed away at his home, Sunday evening, March 14, 2021 after a period of declining health.            

   Born in Pamona, California on April 17, 1938, he was one of six children of the late Loyd and Mary (Caldwell) Hillyard. After his high school graduation, Jack moved to the East coast and resided in New York, then in Massachusetts before moving to Hudson, NH in the mid-1960s.

   Jack owned and operated Wayco Plumbing and Heating and later Hillyard & Sons Plumbing and Heating for a number of years.

    In his leisure time, Jack was a herbalist and mycologist; loved camping and traveling including a trip to the Grand Canyon. He was a longtime member of the Hudson Congregation of Jehovah’s Witnesses. Jack delighted in making known Jehovah’s name and teaching others about God’s word, the bible, right up to the time of his death, witnessing to those who cared for him.

    Jack was predeceased by his first wife, Judith A. (Bagnell) Hillyard, who passed away in September 1989; his stepdaughter, Jennifer D. (Blain) Hiscock; son-in-law, Chris Cook; and four brothers.

    Members of his family include his wife, June M. (Kelly) Hillyard, whom he married on June 27, 1992; two sons and daughters-in-law, Wayne A. and Julie Hillyard of Palm Coast, FL and Kevin J. and Mary Hillyard of Hudson; a daughter, Lorrie Cook of Rochester, NH; two step-children, Kevin R. Blain and his wife Sherry of Vero Beach, FL and Krista L. Bickford and her husband Joseph of Hudson; many grandchildren and great-grandchildren; step-grandchildren and step-great-grandchildren; a brother, Lory Hillyard of California; also nieces and nephews.          

  A memorial talk over zoom will be held on Friday evening, April 23rd at 7:00 p.m.  Arrangements are in the care of the FARWELL FUNERAL SERVICE, 18 Lock Street, Nashua. www.farwellfuneralservice.com

On Sunday, March 7, 2021, James Patrick McGuinness was called to eternal glory, passing away unexpectedly at the age of 41. James was born on December 21, 1979 in Nashua, NH. He was the precious and loving son of Mary Louise (Buxton) and Shawn Patrick McGuinness, and older brother to Laura Eileen McGuinness. He attended Bishop Guertin High School where he lettered in both football and lacrosse. He continued his studies at the University of New Hampshire, where he majored in business and enjoyed playing lacrosse.  

James was married to Sara (Descoteaux) and was a dedicated and loving father to two fine sons, Aidan Patrick and Kellan James McGuinness. He was the Director of Sales and General Manager for McGuinness Tree Service, a licensed crane operator, and an ISA Certified Arborist. James supported the local community by being an on-call Firefighter & EMT at the Bedford Fire Department.

James grew up in Nashua, where his sense of humor and easy going manner created lasting impressions on all those he met. He loved boating on Lake Winnipesaukee, lifting weights, playing guitar, hiking, skiing, and simply just being in the company of his family and friends. He was a car guy; Camaros and Vipers were his favorites. As a father, son, brother, and friend, James brought joy and humor to all of those who knew him. He was a loving and dedicated family man who found utmost joy in creating memories with his boys that he cherished.

In addition to his immediate family he is survived by his Grandmother Edith McGuinness, numerous aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins. He is also survived by his treasured group of true and devoted friends (“brothers”) who together enjoyed all things Jimmy Buffet, tailgating and grilling.

He was predeceased by his Grandparents Robert & Lorraine Buxton, and James & Agnes McGuinness.

The funeral will be held on Monday, March 15th at Parish of the Resurrection, 449 Broad Street, Nashua, NH. Family and friends are welcome to gather beginning at 10:00am for visitation. The funeral Mass will begin at 11:00am. For those unable to attend in person, the service will be live streamed (parishoftheresurrection.org). In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to this GoFundMe Page  https://www.gofundme.com/f/support-for-the-mcguinness-family in support of James’ family in their time of need. Arrangements are in the care of the FARWELL FUNERAL SERVICE, 18 Lock Street, Nashua. www.farwellfuneralservice.com

Elizabeth “Bette” Haug French, age 94, passed away peacefully on March 4, 2021. Bette was born on August 16, 1926 in Nashua, NH. She was the middle of 7 siblings, then had 7 children of her own. Bette lived a very gratifying, full life, with a close, loving family, including children, siblings, relatives and a devoted husband (Gordon L. French) of 60 years. She also had many friends. It seemed everyone who knew Bette loved her, and she loved them back. Bette was kind, sweet, fun, thoughtful, compassionate, and a talented painter and an awesome mom. She was always there to care for, support, and listen to her children and others who needed her.

Bette lived a rich spiritual life, including praying with each child most every night as they settled down to sleep. She was a lifelong devoted parishioner of Saint Patrick’s Church, from baptism to her final days.

Bette was also well educated. She attended Thurston Hall Academy for kindergarten, where she was taught by her grandmother (Jennifer McDuffie); Sacred Heart for elementary and junior high school; one year at Notre Dame Academy; and, after pleading with her father, transferred to Nashua High School for two years, where she graduated in 1943. She then attended New Rochelle College in New York.

However, life was not always easy. When Bette was 7, her dear mother (Charlotte Haug) died due to a short unexpected illness. Her dad (Anton Haug) never remarried, so Bette was raised by Anton, older siblings, maids and governesses. At times Bette was not an easy daughter and could be a bit stubborn, such as when she told her dad she was not going back to New Rochelle to finish her fourth year of college. Instead, she moved to Chicago to be “on her own.” However, after a year, she returned home and shortly thereafter went on a date with Gordon. They quickly fell in love and were married in 1948, and had their first child, Rick, in 1949.

For their first 2 years of marriage, Bette and Gordon lived in Hudson, NH. During the week, Gordon taught math and science at Henniker High School and Bette taught art at Alvirne High School. In January 1951, Gordon was called to serve in the Navy in Washington DC. So, the young family moved there for two years, which were exciting, memorable years. Mom could still recall the name of the apartment complex (Congress Apartments) and the names of good friends and neighbors and their children as recently as this year. They enjoyed living in DC, but, again, life was not easy, their second child (Brenda) was born there, and died 4 days later from a neonatal medical condition. Brenda is buried in Arlington National Cemetery.

After Gordon’s Naval service, the family moved back to Nashua. As the family grew, Bette stayed home but was still active socially. She was a member of the Nashua Junior Women’s Club and the Nashua Artists Association, and played bridge with her neighborhood friends. In the summer of 1966, the family moved from their small north Nashua house to Bette’s father’s south end home. The French residence was a popular, welcoming place for the children and their friends to gather largely because they all loved mom and enjoyed being at her house, playing games, eating cookies, painting murals, or just visiting. Bette spent many hours driving and chaperoning her children, along with their friends, to multiple activities over the years, including art classes, sporting events and ski trips. However, she still found time to paint beautiful pictures which adorned her home.

As the kids got older, with some off to college, mom went back to school at Rivier University. There she   finished her degree in art education that she had started decades earlier, after which she taught art at Nashua High and the Adult Learning Center. She also began to spend more time with Gordon, including working with him at the French Insurance Agency. After a few years of teaching, she began working with Gordon nearly full-time. At times, they would ride bikes together to and from the office, sometimes late at night.

As they got closer to retirement, with all the children in college or on their own, mom and dad began to travel, enjoying many exciting trips to a variety of places. These included Europe, the Canadian Rockies, Hawaii, India, and Thailand; and trips to visit children and grandchildren, including daughter Sandy in California, son Chuck in North Carolina, and granddaughters Katie and Marilynn in Portsmouth and Michigan, respectively. She enjoyed walking on beaches, swimming in lakes, boating, meeting new people, experiencing new cultures, sightseeing, or just hanging out enjoying a glass of wine with family, friends, or new acquaintances.

Mom was a very positive, grateful, friendly person and seemed to enjoy life very much, especially when she was with family or friends, doing most anything, including picnics, birthday celebrations, holidays, and graduations. Even as she got older and slowly lost her eyesight, she remained positive and grateful, but life was becoming more difficult and challenging. In her final days, she lived at the Hunt Community under the care of many wonderful, loving nurses and assistants, whom she loved. She made the most of her situation, enjoying simpler things such as chocolate ice cream, music, singing, or just talking with family, friends, or nurses about her childhood, world travels, family gatherings, and special occasions.

Bette is survived by siblings: Anne Howorth of Nashua, Connie Wilson of Sarasota FL, and John Haug (and sister-in-law Bev) of Palm Springs, Ca; son and daughter-in-law Richard and Ann French of Hudson, NH; daughter and son-in-law Bobbie and Ed McGuire of Alton Bay, NH; daughter Carol Angell of Hudson, NH; daughter and son-in-law Sandy and John Sup of Gold River, CA; son and daughter-in-law Chuck and Jan French of Chapel Hill, NC; and daughter and son-in-law Judie and John Fisher of Nashua;  grandchildren: Katie Parker, Marilynn Hutton, Derek Sup, McKenzie Sup, Casey Fisher, Tyler French, Peyton Fisher, and Kyle Fisher; and great grandchildren Kaelyn and Hailey Parker; and many nieces and nephews.

Bette is pre-deceased by husband Gordon L. French; daughter Brenda French; parents Anton J. and Charlotte (McDuffie) Haug; siblings Marie (Weezy) Doyle, Charles (Chuck) Haug, and Carol Miller.

Due to COVID-19 restrictions, the family plans to hold a small private funeral in the short term, and then a larger “celebration of life” later in the spring. In lieu of flowers, donations are welcome for the Nashua Soup Kitchen, Corpus Christi Food Pantry & Assistance, Children’s Home of Nashua, Home Health Hospice, and Catie’s Closet. For more information regarding services and donations, please visit www.farwellfuneralservice.com

Theresa R. Cote, a lifelong resident of Nashua, passed away peacefully Wednesday March 3 in her home.  Born on December 16, 1929, she was the daughter of the late Charles and Adele (Migneault) Dionne.

A graduate of St. Louis de Gonzague High School, Theresa worked at Consolidated Foods in Nashua prior to getting married.  She was also a lifelong communicant of St. Louis de Gonzague Church.

Theresa was predeceased by her husband, Roger W. Cote, who died in 2011, with whom she shared 55 years of marriage, and a brother, Roger Dionne, who died in 1977.

Members of her family include a son and daughter-in-law, Stephen and Natalie Cote of Raymond, NH; two daughters, Susan Jepsen and her husband William of New Boston, NH, and Ruth Cote and her partner Robert Conaty of Stratham, NH.  Theresa also leaves 3 granddaughters, Meaghan Jepsen of New Boston, NH, Laura Bukowski and her husband Victor of Indian Land, SC, and Rebecca Jepsen and her fiancé Matthew Kaplan of Goffstown, NH; a brother and sister-in-law-law, Norman and Sandra Dionne of Nashua, and a devoted friend, Alma Gadbois of Hudson, NH, as well as several nieces, nephews and cousins.

Arrangements are in the care of The FARWELL FUNERAL SERVICE, 18 Lock Street, Nashua.  There will be no calling hours. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Saturday March 6 at 10:00 AM at St. Louis de Gonzague Church, Nashua.  Internment will take place in St. Louis Cemetery.

   Frederic Lenoir Goff III, 79, of Nashua, passed away at his home, Tuesday morning, March 2, 2021, after a brave battle with Pancreatic cancer.          

   Born in Aurora, Illinois on August 2, 1941, he was a son of the late Frederic L. Jr. and Clarinda W. (Sperry) Goff. Fred attended Purdue University, where he earned a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology. After his graduation, he served with the United States Air Force for 4 years until his honorable discharge in 1970 and held the rank of Captain. Fred furthered his education at the University of South Florida, where he earned a degree in engineering.    

   An electronics engineer, Fred was employed with M.I.T. Haystack Observatory in Bedford, MA, for twenty-eight years until his retirement.

   In his leisure time, he enjoyed photography, taking trips to the parks and mountains, and also enjoyed collecting antique historical guns. Fred loved spending time with his family, his in-laws and friends. He loved his cat friends, and his cat, Ipek loved him back just as much.

    Members of his family include his loving wife of 47 years, Esen “Ulku” Goff; his son and daughter-in-law, Eric and Darcy Goff; his daughter and son-in-law, Laura and Larry Lyons; beloved grandchildren, Nathaniel Steelman, Nicholas Steelman, Eleanor Goff and Abigail Goff.

    There will be no services at this time. Friends wishing to express their sympathy, may send donations in his memory to the Humane Society for Greater Nashua, 24 Ferry Road, Nashua, NH 03064.        

    Arrangements are in the care of the FARWELL FUNERAL SERVICE, 18 Lock Street, Nashua. www.farwellfuneralservice.com