Author Archives: Dana Farwell

John R. Deschenes, 70, a lifelong resident of Nashua passed away on Monday, October 12, 2020 at Southern New Hampshire Regional Medical Center after a brief illness.

Born in Nashua on September 6, 1950, he was the son of the late Roger and Juliette (Sigouin) Deschenes.  He and his wife, Louise (Rudak) were married on August 12, 1978 and recently celebrated their 42^nd anniversary at their home in Ogunquit.

John was a 1970 graduate of Nashua High School and a 1975 graduate of the New Hampshire Vocational-Technical College-Manchester.  He also attended UMass-Lowell and was a member of Rise at Rivier University.

John entered the US Army upon graduation in 1970 and was honorably discharged in 1973, having served the majority of his deployment in Germany.

John began his career at a young age at Lenny’s Gulf Service Station in Nashua.  He later worked for Nashua Corporation and retired from Elbit Systems of America in 2017.

John was previously an active parishioner of St. Stanislaus Parish where he served as a Eucharistic Minister, vice chair of the Parish Council and chair of the Buildings and Grounds Committee.  He served as Treasurer for their weekly Bingo for many years and volunteered at the annual Parish Polish Picnic.  John was recognized as Parishioner of the Year 1991-1992.

John is currently a parishioner of Immaculate Conception Parish and has continued to volunteer there for various functions.  He particularly enjoyed a recent trip on a Rhine River Cruise with fellow parishioners.

John was passionate about his service work with the Nashua Lions Club.  Over his 26-years of membership, he served in many capacities including: President, Secretary, Treasurer, Sight and Hearing Chairman, and Co-chair of the KidSight Program.  On the District/State level he was the Health Van Coordinator, Cabinet Secretary-Treasurer, Multiple District Cabinet Secretary-Treasurer, Guiding Lion, Zone Chairman, and Sight and Hearing Committee member. John was the Coordinator of volunteers at the NH Special Olympics each June for the Opening Eyes Program.  For many years he worked at the Lions of NH Haunted House each October.  He was also a supporter and volunteer at Lions Camp Pride in New Durham. John and his family were lucky enough to attend several Lions Club International Conventions throughout the years in such places as Montreal, San Diego, Chicago, and Boston.

He was honored to have his service work acknowledged by his fellow Lions with a Progressive Melvin Jones Fellow (the highest recognition given on the International level), a Progressive Granite State Fellow (the highest recognition on the state level), and a Presidential Appreciation Award. He was named Nashua Lion of the Year twice in 1998-1999 and again in 2009-2010.

John also served on the Board of Directors for the Friendship Club in Nashua for many years.

Members of his family include his wife, Louise; daughter and son-in-law Sarah and Michael Kiley of Manchester, NH; son and daughter-in-law Gregory and Ashley Deschenes of Westfield, MA.  His three granddaughters held a very special place in his heart: Callie and Addison Deschenes and Maeve Kiley.

John is also survived by his two brothers, Michael and Paul both of Nashua; his two sisters and brothers-in-law Diane Deschenes and Ronald Longworth of Nashua and Dr. Rose and Kenneth George of Fort Collins, Colorado, his aunt Marjorie Fischer of Nashua, his uncle Ronald Jenkins of Nashua, his aunt Lorraine (Raoul) Leveille of Sanford, ME; and many special nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Besides his parents, John was predeceased by his brother David; his father-in-law and mother-in-law Bolic and Lucille Rudak; and his sister-in-law and brother-in-law Jacqueline and Ronald Langlois.

John’s big heart and even bigger smile will be missed by all who knew and loved him.

John’s family wishes to express their grateful appreciation to the nurses, doctors, and staff of Southern New Hampshire Regional Medical Center ICU and 4 West for the care and compassion shown to him and his family during his final weeks.

His walk-through visitation will be held at the FARWELL FUNERAL HOME, 18 Lock Street, Nashua on Sunday, October 18^th from 4 to 8 p.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated in Immaculate Conception Church, 216 East Dunstable Road, Nashua, Monday, October 19^th at 11 a.m. Friends are invited to attend. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made in his name to the Nashua Lions Club (PO Box 3361, Nashua 03061) or the Lions Sight and Hearing Foundation of NH (PO Box 970, Concord, NH 03302.) Arrangements are in the care of the FARWELL FUNERAL SERVICE. www.farwellfuneralservice.com

George Aaron Ferris, age 92, died peacefully, on Wednesday evening, October 7, 2020, at Fairview Nursing Home in Hudson NH, after a long battle with Alzheimer’s Disease.

George was born on April 29, 1928 in Worcester MA, son of George and Ellen (Best) Ferris.  He was married to his beloved wife Trudy for 56 years, before she died in 2013.

George served his country in the U.S. Navy and was honorably discharged. He then enrolled at Boston University and graduated with his bachelor’s degree in journalism. He was a reporter and news photographer for several years until he married Trudy in 1957 and they relocated to Nashua where they raised their family. George worked at Sanders Associates for 20 years and he retired from GTE in 1993. He spent the next 20 years taking daily 10-mile walks all over southern NH, going on family vacations, volunteering, reading and attending his grandchildren’s activities. He was an avid fan of New England sports but especially the Boston Celtics.

George was a devoted husband, father and grandfather. He provided so much laughter with his quick Irish wit, which he maintained throughout his illness to the very end.  He was a kind, gentle and generous soul.  His family adored him and will miss him deeply.

George is survived by his children, Joe (Kristen), Dave (Stacey) and Marianne (Steve). His grandchildren, Joe (Amber), Meghan (Stephen), Lindsay (Mike), Sarah (Alex), Matt and Caroline and many nieces and nephews. Besides his parents and his wife, George was predeceased by his siblings, Paul, Helen, Hazel, Rita, Bob and Barbara.

A special thank you to the staff at Fairview Nursing Home, true heroes. Thank you all for your kindness, compassion and excellent care.

A private graveside service will be held on Wednesday, October 14^th.  For those looking to express sympathy, please consider making a donation to your favorite charity, in George’s memory. Arrangements are in the care of the FARWELL FUNERAL SERVICE, 18 Lock Street, Nashua. www.farwellfuneralservice.com

  A graveside service for Florence will be held on Wednesday afternoon, October 7th at  2 o’clock in Edgewood Cemetery, 107 Amherst Street, Nashua. Family and friends are invited to attend followed by a celebration of her life.

 Florence Irene (Raymond) Mitchell, 93, of Nashua, widow of James A. Mitchell, passed away at her home, Friday afternoon, February 14, 2020 after a period of declining health.        

   Mrs. Mitchell was born in Nashua on August 14, 1926, a daughter of the late Antoine and Irene (Pinette) Raymond. She attended the former St. Francis Xavier Parochial School and Nashua High School. As a young woman, Florence was a waitress at the former Yankee Flyer in Downtown Nashua. She was also employed with Sprague Electric Company for 20 years and then at Sanders Associates for several years until she retired.

   Florence was a volunteer of the Meals on Wheels and the food pantry for the Nashua Housing Authority and enjoyed decorating for their special events. She was a member of the Nashua Senior Activity Center and enjoyed knitting.

   In addition to her husband, Jim, who passed away in February 1990; Florence was predeceased by her son, Scott D. Mitchell on July 14, 1998; four brothers, Joseph Fernand Raymond, Arthur Raymond, Raoul W. “Ralph” Raymond and his wife Marguerite, and Antoine Camil Raymond; two sisters, Gertrude Boulanger and Constance Boucher and her husband Donat; her niece Elaine Corey, and grandchildren Morgan English and Nevaeh Aller.

    Members of her family include two daughters and sons-in-law, Kim and Donald Demanche and Kelley and Michael Teunessen; fifteen grandchildren, Jana, Sara and Adam Demanche, Matthew, Carrie and Crystal Kerns, Joyce Demanche Reczko,  James Demanche,  James F. Teunessen, and Kayte, Brooke, Johanna and April Demanche, Justin and Cameron Aller; several great-grandchildren; three sisters-in-law, Patricia Raymond, Pauline Raymond and Muriel Kramer;  brother-in-law, Robert Mitchell of Nashua; her longtime friends, Armand Simoneau, Arline Wells; also many nieces, nephews and cousins.   

   Arrangements are in the care of the FARWELL FUNERAL SERVICE. (603) 882-0591. www.farwellfuneralservice.com 

   Ronald Joseph Doucette, 85, a longtime Nashua resident, passed away Thursday evening, October 1, 2020 at the Crestwood Center in Milford, after a period of declining health.       

   Born in Waltham, Massachusetts on January 9, 1935, he was the only child of the late Dennis and Catherine (Gilligan) Doucette. Ron grew up in Weston, MA and graduated from Weston High School Class of 1954. After his graduation, he entered the Army and served from October 14, 1954 until his honorable discharge on September 19, 1956 with the rank of Private First Class.

   Ron began his career at Columbia Ribbon and Carbon in Needham, MA and K & W Supply, Inc. in Merrimack, NH. In his later years, Ron worked for the Social Security Administration in Nashua and the Department of Employment Security in Nashua under the Green Thumb program.

    He served as treasurer of the Mattahunt Community School Council, Mattapan, MA from 1979-1980; and was a Past President and treasurer of the Arel Manor Association. Ron was an active volunteer of the Dr. Roger Dionne Center and the Sage Advisor Board both of St. Joseph Hospital; and transit matters for City the Bus of Nashua from 2000 until his death. Ron also served as a selectman for Nashua’s Ward Six for over two terms. He was a communicant of St. Patrick Church.

     Calling hours will be held at the FARWELL FUNERAL HOME, 18 Lock Street, Nashua on Tuesday evening, October 6^th from 6 to 8 p.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated in St. Patrick Church, 29 Spring Street, Nashua, Wednesday, October 7^th at 9:30 a.m. Interment and Army Honors will take place at the New Hampshire State Veterans Cemetery in Boscawen at Noon. Friends are invited to attend. Donations may be made in his memory to Catholic Television, 34 Chestnut Street, Watertown, MA 02471. Attn. The Rev. Robert Reed.          

  Arrangements are in the care of the FARWELL FUNERAL SERVICE.   www.farwellfuneralservice.com 

   Raymond Gerard DeRusha, Jr, 67, of Nashua, passed away Friday, September 25, 2020, surrounded by his loving family after a difficult nine-month battle with lung cancer.       

   Born in Lowell, Massachusetts, August 11, 1953, Raymond was the eldest of nine children of the late Raymond and Margaret (Birchall) DeRusha. He attended Keith Academy and graduated from Lowell High School Class of 1971.  

   Raymond is survived by his loving wife of 45 years, Deborah (Robson) DeRusha; three children and six grandchildren, Raymond and Angela (Paul) DeRusha III and their children, Jacob DeRusha, Elizabeth DeRusha and Raymond DeRusha IV of Nashua, NH; Debb DeRusha and her two boys Cameron Reinhold and Tyler Reinhold of Nashua, NH, Candice (DeRusha) and Jayson Conn and their son Ethan Conn of Bedford, NH.

   Raymond was predeceased by a sister, Mary (DeRusha) Gallant and is survived by sisters, Martha DeRusha, Marjorie DeRusha-Morris, Margaret Gerace, Marianne DeRusha, Marie DeRusha, Marilyn (DeRusha) and her husband Daniel Massey; a brother Harold DeRusha and brother-in-law John Gallant.   

    In-laws were a special part of Raymond’s family, Brenda (Robson) Rosa, Karen (Robson) and James Gagnon, Judith (Robson and Steven Casey, Melissa (Robson) Hurynowicz, Linn (Robson) and Robert Kelleher, Lawrence and Kimberly Robson, David and Susan Robson.

    With being the elder of two large families there are many nieces, nephews, cousins and god children that lost a comforting shoulder to lean on.

   Raymond was employed at Ingersoll Rand for 26 years as a machinist. Working a second job as a part time driver at night for NFI Industries allowed him to do what he loved, driving 18 wheelers. This passion led him to becoming the owner operator of DeRusha Trucking. This would allow him to see the country with his wife but not before his children had their own families. He always put his children and family before himself.

     Raymond was a big fan of baseball, hockey and football. He loved his Red Sox but would listen to and watch any baseball game he could find. His baseball card collection was a treasure to him. He was a Manchester Monarch season ticket holder for 18 seasons, but the Bruins were never far away. Ray was a big Dallas Cowboys fan, even making a trip to Dallas to see them play the Patriots. Ray loved getting on his motorcycle, with his wife on the back, to head to the beach for seafood, sunsets and fireworks. Ray also enjoyed playing and coaching softball in Nashua and Merrimack where he met many lifelong friends.

      Pappy’s most cherished time spent was with his grandkids. Whether it was watching them play sports, perform in concerts, recycling trips to the dump or puttering around the garage, those times always made his day.

      A loving husband, amazing father, beloved Pappy, and genuine hardworking, good guy. He was a father figure to many more people than just his children. His timely, sarcastic remarks and naps at family gathers will not be forgotten. He will be loved and missed by all but will undoubtably inspire and strengthen future generations for many years to come.

      HIS WALK -THROUGH VISITATION will be held at the FARWELL FUNERAL HOME, 18 Lock Street, Nashua on Tuesday, September 29^th from 4 to 8 p.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held in St. Christopher Church, 62 Manchester Street, Nashua, Wednesday morning at 11 o’clock. Donations may be made in his memory to the American Cancer Society, 3 Speen Street, Framingham, MA 01701. Arrangements are in the care of the FARWELL FUNERAL SERVICE. www.farwellfuneralservice.com 

   Kenneth P. Blanchard, 84, of Hudson, NH, passed away peacefully at home on Friday, September 18, 2020.       

   Born in Providence, Rhode Island on August 31, 1936, Ken and his identical twin brother Billy were the oldest of six kids, son of the late William and Dorothy (Williams) Blanchard. He was predeceased by two brothers, Billy and Wayne; Ken is survived by his other brother Charles of Hudson, NH; and his sisters, Elaine Kelly of Manchester and Laurel Lewis of Londonderry, NH.  

   Moving with his family from Providence in the early 1940s, Ken became a lifelong resident of Windham and then Hudson, NH and graduated from Alvirne High School in 1955. Winters have been spent in Leesburg, Florida where numerous friendships were forged and cherished, including his treasured friend and partner, Joyce Valentine who was an immeasurable comfort and aid during his final days of declining health.

     In 1958 Ken married his high school sweetheart Patricia “Pat” Kalil and together, they raised four wonderful children, never failing to attend virtually every school activity, sporting event, class recitals and plays. Often working two jobs, Ken and his brother Bill ultimately started and grew a property rehab and rental business, B & B Associates in Nashua, NH.

    A devoted husband for over 56 years, Ken and Pat were the gold standard for that storybook marriage before she passed away in 2014. They were both common fixtures at local restaurants, seasonal events and virtually every ice cream stand in New England!

     Ken was an avid golfer, an adventurous outdoorsman, and a passionate New England sports fan with a stunning collection of trophies and memorabilia to prove it.

     He is survived by daughter Sue and her husband Rick Smart, son Kevin and his wife Cindy, son Tod and his wife Lynn, daughter Michelle and her husband James Taylor; grandchildren Katrina, Kyle, Adam, Trevor, Kristine and Kasey Blanchard, Susan and Cody Hobbs, as well as extended family Dennis, Jana, Terry, Kaitlyn, Izabela and Mike Coughlin; and one very special great-granddaughter, Paisley-Mae born just this year.

     A loving husband, amazing father and grandfather, and an all-around class act, Ken will forever be remembered for his warm, devilish grin and trademark two-handed handshake. Whether on a golf course, love for nature and a zest for life that was rivaled only by his love and passion for his family. He will be loved and missed by all but will undoubtably inspire and strengthen future generations for many, many years to come.

     HIS WALK-THROUGH VISITATION will be held at the FARWELL FUNERAL HOME, 18 Lock Street, Nashua on Friday, Sept. 25^th from 4 to 7 p.m. A Graveside Service will take place in Sunnyside Cemetery, Central Street, Hudson, Saturday morning at 10 o’clock. Friends are invited to attend. In lieu of flowers, a donation may be made in Ken’s memory to Friends of Benson Park, Inc., P.O. Box 91, Hudson, NH 03051. Arrangements are in the care of the FARWELL FUNERAL SERVICE. www.farwellfuneralservice.com

   Alan Wayne LaFreniere, 60, of Nashua, passed away at his home, Saturday, September 12, 2020 after a period of declining health.       

   One of five children of Rose M. (Klinzing) LaFreniere and the late Robert A. LaFreniere, he was born in Germany on May 16, 1960. A resident of Nashua since 1967, Alan was educated in local schools and graduated from Nashua High School with the Class of 1978.  

   Alan had owned and operated Fins & Feathers Pets, Inc. of Chelmsford, MA for thirty years.  

    Members of his family include his mother, Rose M. LaFreniere; two brothers and two sisters, Mark LaFreniere and his wife Jean, Gail Heald widow of Arthur Heald Jr, Lori Porter, and Gary LaFreniere and his wife Michelle; also many nieces, nephews and cousins.

    There are no calling hours. A Graveside Service will take place in Edgewood Cemetery, 107 Amherst Street, Nashua, Thursday afternoon, September 17^th at 1:00 o’clock.  Friends are invited to attend.      

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

   Victor Armand Cote, 61, of Hudson and formerly of Nashua, passed away unexpectedly at his home, Friday evening, September 11, 2020.       

   One of three children of the late Henry D. and Marie Claire (Maheux) Cote, he was born in Nashua on April 29, 1959. Victor attended local schools and graduated from Nashua High School Class of 1977.  

   A longtime bartender, Victor worked at Kegler’s Den Lounge of Leda Lanes candlepin bowling in Nashua for many years and then owned and operated Bartending Services by Mr. Carol, Inc.

    In his leisure time, Victor enjoyed riding his Harley Davidson motorcycle, hunting, playing guitar and traveling.

    Members of his family include his son and daughter-in-law, Austin J. and Kayla Cote of Nashua; two step-daughters, Candace Turcotte and her husband Christopher, and Ashley Decaro; eight grandchildren; his sisters and brothers-in-law, Rose S. Cote and Yvan D. Cote, and Janet M. Cole and Paul F. Cole; three nieces and one nephew, Valerie R. Mock, Kelly Y. Cote, Natasha C. Cole and MacKenzie A. Cole; and many cousins.

    Calling hours will be held at the FARWELL FUNERAL HOME, 18 Lock Street, Nashua on Wednesday, September 16^th from 4 to 7 p.m. Those attending are asked to practice social distancing and wear face coverings.      

  Arrangements are in the care of the FARWELL FUNERAL SERVICE. www.farwellfuneralservice.com 

   Paulette L. (Moore) Blaha, 74, of Hudson and formerly of Terrace Street in Nashua, passed away Thursday afternoon, September 10, 2020 at Fairview Nursing Home, after a period of declining health.        

   She was born in Keene, New Hampshire on July 2, 1946, a daughter of the late William E. and Marion C. (Wilson) Moore. A resident of Nashua for many years, Paulette had been employed at Hannaford’s supermarket on Coliseum Avenue in Nashua.

   In her leisure time, she enjoyed sitting by the window at her home, reading, solving crossword books and puzzles.  

   Paulette was the wife of the late William A. Blaha, who passed away June 18, 2017. They were married on April 17, 1986 and shared 31 years together.  

    Members of her family include her children, Timothy Hillock and his wife Shannon of Nashua, Robert Hillock and his wife Stacy of Litchfield, ME, Brian Hillock and his wife Lois of New Ipswich and Belinda Bauerle and her husband Daniel of Lyndeborough; step-son, Keith Blaha of Corona, CA; thirteen  grandchildren, Jacob, Dillon, Sandy, Brian, Devin, Hillarie, Zachary, Robert III, Tim, Natasha, Kaleb, Karsons and Hunter; six great-grandchildren, Jackson, Hailey, Bryce, Kalee, Owen and Carter; four sisters, Joyce Guillemette of Goshen, NH, Audrey Clark of Konawa, OK, Gail Lawrence of Winchester, NH and Donna Duszaiewicz of Marilla, NY; also many nieces, nephews and cousins. In addition to her husband and parents, Paulette was predeceased by two brothers.

  There are no services planned at this time.   Arrangements are in the care of the FARWELL FUNERAL SERVICE, 18 Lock Street, Nashua. www.farwellfuneralservice.com

Adele Gaimari 90, of Nashua, died peacefully at Saint Joseph’s Hospital in Nashua on Saturday, September 6^th.  She resided in Nashua for nearly 60 years, and spent much of her time, especially summers, at Newfound Lake in Bridgewater, N.H. Her last 2 years were spent at the Fairview Nursing Home in Hudson.

Adele was born in 1929 in Worcester, Massachusetts, the eldest daughter of Henry and Helen Bruinsma. She married Frank A. Gaimari M.D. also from Worcester, in 1954. Dr. Gaimari was a practicing physician in Nashua for several decades. He predeceased her in 2009.

Adele is survived by her children and their spouses: Francis and Debra (MacLeod) Gaimari of Grantham, N.H.; Theresa and Mark Anderson of La Crescenta, California; Robert and Ellen (Wadleigh) Gaimari of Hollis, N.H.; and Stephen and Helen (Jones) Gaimari of Davis, California. She is survived by 9 loving grandchildren and their spouses: Angela Gaimari of Truro, Massachusetts; Anthony and Peabody (Southwell) Gaimari of Los Angeles, California; Natalie Gaimari and Ryan Hickey, of Queens, New York; Caroline Gaimari of Paris, France; Erik Anderson of San Jose, California; Nicole Anderson of La Crescenta, California; Alexander and Tony Gaimari of Davis, California; and Rebecca Gaimari of Somerville, Massachusetts. She is also survived by her great-grandson Lionel Gaimari of Los Angeles, California; a sister and brother-in-law, Trudy and Roy DuVerger of Waynesville, North Carolina; and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

Adele especially loved spending time with family and friends, enjoying the outdoors, reading, playing bridge and cribbage, gardening, gourmet cooking, and watching her beloved Boston sports teams.

Her family thanks the many people who expressed concern and provided solace and care during her recent illnesses. We would especially like to thank the doctors, nurses, and staff who took care of Adele from Right At Home, Fairview Nursing Home, and St. Joseph’s Hospital.

No memorial service is planned at this time due to the Covid-19 pandemic.  Please think of Adele in your prayers. Donations may be made to the Saint Vincent DePaul Society at the Immaculate Conception Church in Nashua. Arrangements are in the care of the FARWELL FUNERAL SERVICE, 18 Lock Street, Nashua. www.farwellfuneralservice.com

   Eleanor L. Ricard, 81, of Bedford and formerly of Litchfield, widow of John E. Ricard, passed away Thursday morning, September 3, 2020 at The Arbors of Bedford, after a period of declining health.      

   Mrs. Ricard was born in Boston, Massachusetts on March 14, 1939, a daughter of the late Jesse R. and Lillian E. (Wilkinson) Meadows. Eleanor grew up in Lexington, MA and was a graduate of Lexington High School Class of 1957. After raising her family, she continued her education at Hesser College, earning an Associate’s degree in child care. Eleanor worked in day care in Nashua, the Country Bear in Hudson and later at Campbell High School in Litchfield.

   Eleanor will be lovingly remembered for her vivacious and outgoing personality and her love of life.

    On November 16, 1963, Eleanor married John Ricard of Nashua, an Air Force Technical Sergeant stationed in Texas. Following her husband’s retirement from the Air Force in 1972, the couple moved to Litchfield, NH where they made their home for many years. The Ricard’s shared 40 years together until John’s passing on July 17, 2004.

    Members of her family include her children, Rebecca Barton and her husband Andrew of Nashua, Alison Ricard-Kinville and her husband Adam of Washington, NH and John A. Ricard and his significant other, Kirsten of Berwick, ME; a granddaughter, Kaya Rose Ricard; a sister, Marilyn Peterson of Burlington, MA; a brother and sister-in-law, Peter and Joyce Meadows of Westford, MA; also many nieces, nephews and cousins. One of nine children, Eleanor was predeceased by a sister, Joanne Dailey; and five brothers, Jesse Jr., Gerald, George, Paul and Kenny Meadows.

    Calling hours will be held at the FARWELL FUNERAL HOME, 18 Lock Street, Nashua on Tuesday, September 8^th from 4 to 7 p.m. A Graveside service will take place at Pinecrest Cemetery, Pinecrest Road in Litchfield, Wednesday morning at 11 o’clock. Family and friends are invited to attend. Donations may be sent in her memory to Brookhaven Hospice, 2 Bedford Farms Drive, Bedford, NH 03110 or the Alzheimer’s Association, 166 South River Road, Bedford, NH 03110.      

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

  Veronica Irene Lilley, 89, of Nashua, widow of Frederick J. Lilley, passed away at her home, Saturday afternoon, March 28, 2020, after a period of declining health.        

   Mrs. Lilley was born in Wilmington, Massachusetts on August 26, 1930, a daughter of the late Harry and Bertha (Miller) Tovey. She resided in East Boston and Wilmington, MA for many years before moving to Nashua where she has made her home for the past 29 years.  

   Veronica was a devoted wife, mother and grandmother, who was known by all as “Nana T”. She especially loved family cook-outs, traveling on cruises and enjoyed watching her favorite Boston sports teams.

    She and her husband Fred were married on February 25, 1951 at St. Thomas Church in Wilmington, MA and shared 31 years together until his passing on October 18, 1982. Veronica was also predeceased by a sister, Marion Smith; two brothers, John and James Tovey; and her son-in-law, Leo Paul Nangle.

    Members of her family include her three children, Veronica I. “Ronnie” Nangle, Deborah J. Smith and her husband Kevin, all of Nashua, and Frederick J. Lilley Jr. and his wife Rhonda of Searsmont, ME; eight grandchildren, Christopher Nangle and his wife Delilah, Joshua Nangle, Christopher Smith, Holly Duchesne and her husband Jeffrey, Corey Smith and his partner Nina Raymond, Alyssa Ames and her partner, Wayne May, Freddie Lilley and his partner, Alison Hatch, and Crystal Boynton and her husband Brian; fifteen great-grandchildren, Ayana, Damien, Elizah, Mia, Ava, Navious, Neezabella and Christian Nangle; Jacob, Brady and Isabella Duchesne; Amelia and Oliver Smith; Austin Ames and Brayden Roberts; a great-great-granddaughter, Jasmine; two sisters and brothers-in-law, Jeannie and Norman Rouleau and Rose and Bobby Letellier; and many nieces, nephews and cousins.   

   The family is very grateful to her daughter Deborah, who provided loving care and support of Veronica in her home 24/7 for the past four months. Veronica will be missed by all who knew her.

   Calling hours will be held at the FARWELL FUNERAL HOME, 18 Lock Street, Nashua, Saturday, August 22nd from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. followed by a graveside service at Woodlawn Cemetery, 101 Kinsley Street, Nashua at 1:30 p.m. Family and friends are invited to attend. Donations may be made in her memory to Home Health & Hospice Care, 7 Executive Park Drive, Merrimack, NH 03054.

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

In Loving Memory of our Mom

Ms. Patricia Harriett Mackey, 88, of 14 Waubeeka Springs Road, Hudson, died in peace on Monday, June 1, 2020.

A resident of Nashua, then Hudson for the past 53 years, Pat was born in Malden, MA on August 17, 1931, the daughter of the late Augustus and Ida Maltais of Nashua, NH.

Prior to Patricia’s move from Virginia Beach, Virginia to New Hampshire in 1968, she made her home as a military wife and mother living in multiple east coast communities from Newfoundland, Canada to Key West, Florida. In June 2019 she moved to Bedford Nursing Rehabilitation Center, Bedford, NH, where she received round-the-clock care from the warm, family-oriented nursing staff. She was educated in Charleston, NH, a proud U.S. Navy Veteran, Rank SKSNS from July 1951 through September 1952, during the Korean War, and a 40-year member of Arlington Street United Methodist Church in Nashua. Patricia worked for Crosby’s Bakery in the early 1970s then worked for Drs. Roger and Pierre Dionne, and St. Joseph Family Medical, first as a receptionist then as a file clerk, until her retirement.

Patricia was devoted to her family. She enjoyed the simple moments spent together over family functions and holidays, which would often bring all her children home, from across the country. These family moments would illicit uncontrollable laughter as stories would surface of our times together on Crown Hill. Her grandchildren were the source of her greatest pride. She had a way of making each one feel valued and treasured. Patricia enjoyed reading, often visiting the library weekly to subsidize her book-of-the-month collection.

Family of Patricia H. Mackey
Members of the family include brother David Maltais and sister-in-law Diane, Shawn and Shannon nephew and niece, of Phoenix, AZ. Five children; Lynne Kesler, Stephen Mackey, Leeanne Roystan and son-in-law Scott of Hudson, NH; Lisa Mackey of Newport Beach, California, and Trisha Shutt and son-in-law Stephen of Antioch, CA.  Seven grandchildren; Lenny Raschella and spouse Jerri, Corinne Bauman and spouse Anthony, Christine Frazier, Andrea Sheipe and spouse Jimmy, Nate Roystan, and Ben Roystan. Six great grandchildren; Cole Raschella, Shelise Raschella, Joey Pease, Karellen Frazier, Trinity Frazier, and Madison Bauman.

Due to Pandemic restrictions, services for Patricia are scheduled for August. A celebration of life will be held Sunday, August 16^th at 4:00 pm in the Arlington Street United Methodist Church, 63 Arlington Street, Nashua. The Rev. Bruce Bradshaw, Pastor, officiate. The interment will take place Monday, August 17^th at 11:30 a.m. at the New Hampshire State Veterans Cemetery, 110 Daniel Webster Highway, Boscawen, NH. In lieu of flowers, those wishing to express their sympathy may make donations in her name to Home Health and Hospice or to Wounded Warrior Project. Arrangements are in the care of the FARWELL FUNERAL SERVICE, 18 Lock Street, Nashua. www.farwellfuneralservice.com

     Robert (Bob) Eugene Dion, 73,  left this world on August 14, 2020, in Wells, Maine, after a courageous 3.5 year battle with pancreatic cancer.

Bob beat the odds and through his strong determination, defied destiny to make sure he danced one more time with his loving wife, Nancy Baldwin, at the July wedding of her son, Mitch (Casey).

Bob was a native of Nashua, NH and was the son of Rita and Royal Dion.  Educated in local schools, Bob attended Hesser College. After serving four years in the Air Force, he made his career by continuing the family dry cleaning business.  He owned and operated Arno’s Cleaners in Concord, NH until his retirement.

Bob was married to Pauline (Jambard) Dion for over 45 years until her passing in 2011; and predeceased by his daughter, Patricia (Dion) Jeffrey in 2018.  

Bob married Nancy Baldwin in 2016 and together with her sons, Mitch, Matt, and Marcus, spent many happy times together making lasting memories.

 Bob divided his time between his homes in Maine and Florida.  His joy was spending time with his friends and family including grandchildren, sisters and brothers and their spouses, and numerous nieces and nephews.  He loved his popcorn (!), dining out for breakfast, and hosting social events.  July 4^th celebrations at his Maine beach home, “The Gathering Place”, were a huge favorite.  Golf was another passion and he seemed to measure the quality of each week by how often he was on the putting green.

Bob lived his life as a kind and patient soul with high spirits and positive energy.  His generosity was one of his greatest assets and laughing and joking were his medicines of choice.  His greatest talent was invoking his famous magical smile which brought comfort to any situation.

Now, the shadow of Bob’s magical smile will thrive in the hearts of those who knew and loved him, and he SURELY will be smiling down on them….

Members of his family include his wife Nancy; his son, Michael Dion and his wife Sharon; son-in-law, Andy Jeffrey; two grandchildren, Allie and Drew Jeffrey; his three stepsons, Mitch, Matt and the late Marcus Baldwin; seven siblings and their spouses,  Dick and Sue Dion, Don and Teresa Dion, Pauline and Mike Silva, Roy Dion, Sylvia and Cy Thibault, Ray and Gail Dion, and John and Sylvia Dion; also many nieces, nephews and cousins. 

A private graveside service was held on Friday, August 21st for his family. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Bob’s memory to: Friends of Dana-Farber, 450 Brookline Avenue, SW 120, Boston, MA  02215. Arrangements are in the care of the FARWELL FUNERAL SERVICE, 18 Lock Street, Nashua. www.farwell funeralservice.com

Lorraine J. Poirier, 86, of Nashua, NH, widow of Norman J. Poirier, died on Tuesday, August 11, 2020 surrounded by her family, after battling Parkinson’s and dementia for several years.

Mrs. Poirier was born on April 9, 1934 in Waltham, MA, the daughter of the late Mitchell & Edwilda (Chevrette) Ouellette. She was a caregiver to family and friends. She was a nurse’s aide in a local nursing home. When her children were older, she went back to school to get her high school diploma and she also took some college courses at Leslie College.

She was a communicant of St. Joseph The Worker Parish in Nashua. As a mother, she was our father’s soul mate; as a mom, no one could rival her love for her children, her grandchildren, and her great grandchildren. Her faith was a beacon of light to her family and to all she met.

In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her husband Norman; her daughter Kathleen; and son-in-law Michael Hamm.

Mrs. Poirier is survived by two sons, Mitchell Poirier and his wife Linda of Hampstead, NH, Steven Poirier and wife Chu of Nashua, NH; two daughters Debra Wright and husband Robert of Nashua, NH, and Patricia Hamm of Nashua, NH, along with four grandchildren: Tiffany Smith and husband Joshua, Kerry Aubin and husband Matt, Scott Poirier and wife Courtney, Gregg Poirier of Hampton Beach, NH and four great grandchildren: Maddison & Cayden Aubin and Cole & Chase Poirier; her brother Norman Ouellette and wife Sylvie of Nashua; her sister Irene Caouette of New Ipswich, NH; also many nieces and nephews.

Her family wishes to express their gratitude to the staffs of Nashua Crossings and Compassionate Care Hospice of NH for their support and outstanding care of Lorraine.

Family and friends are invited to the FARWELL FUNERAL HOME, 18 Lock Street, Nashua, Tuesday, August 18^th from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at Immaculate Conception Church, 216 East Dunstable Road, Nashua at 11 o’clock. A private burial will take place in Sacred Heart Cemetery, Greenville, NH. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in her name to BSL at Nashua Crossings Employee Fund, 674 W. Hollis St, Nashua, NH 03062  or  Compassionate Care Hospice of NH, LLC, 18 Orchard View Dr., Unit 4, Londonderry, NH 03053. Arrangements are in the care of the FARWELL FUNERAL SERVICE. www.farwellfuneralservice.com

  Philip James Crowley, 84, of Nashua and formerly of Old Orchard Beach, Maine, passed away unexpectedly Friday afternoon, August 7, 2020 at St. Joseph Hospital.      

   Born in Portland, Maine on April 2, 1936, he was a son of the late John Crowley and Esther (Snow) Crowley Taylor. Philip grew up in Old Orchard Beach and went to Cheverus High School.

  After serving in the Navy, he started a long career with the US Postal Service; working as a letter carrier in Old Orchard Beach, ME and Waltham, MA.   

    His children have fond family memories of growing up in Scarborough with a playful and loving father. Prior to moving to Nashua in 2017, Philip and Anna had wonderful times in the San Diego area for many years.

    Philip had a great sense of humor. His stories brought us all to laughter. He was a master at restoring furniture and happily finding value in discarded items. Philip was a devoted husband who had such a big heart.

    Members of his family include his wife Anna M. (Gauthier) Crowley, whom he married on June 17, 1981 and shared 39 years together; three children, Lisa Crowley, Kevin Crowley and his wife Trish, and the late Michael Crowley, who passed away in 2014 and his wife, Karen; three step-daughters, Kathleen (Ziehm) Libby, Michelle Ziehm and Mary Lee Ziehm; three grandchildren, Maegan Crowley, Kevin John Crowley and Morgan Crowley; five step-grandchildren, Joshua Libby, Cameron Libby, Shoshanna Ziehm, Dominic Iaconeta and Natalie Iaconeta; three great-grandchildren, Rebecca, Kaleigh and River Crowley; two brothers, John Crowley and Noel Crowley; also nieces, nephews and cousins.

    There are no calling hours. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at Immaculate Conception Church, 216 East Dunstable Road, Nashua, Thursday, August 13^th at 10 a.m. Note: If you cannot physically attend, please join us via livestream at: www.iccnashuanh.org Interment and Navy Honors will take place at the New Hampshire State Veterans Cemetery, 110 Daniel Webster Highway in Boscawen, Friday, August 14^th at 12:30 p.m. All are invited.        

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