Author Archives: Dana Farwell

It is with deep sadness that we announce our beloved mother, Shirley Ann Lucier, of Amherst, NH, passed away peacefully at her home of 48 years, Feb. 17, 2025, at the age of 89.

She was born Nov.10, 1935, in Nashua NH to the late Katheryn and Alfred Huard. She attended Amherst St. School and the Sacred Heart School in Nashua NH. Her faith in God was strong.

Shirley was a devoted and loving mother and wife who cherished her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren. She loved nature and enjoyed fishing and walks on the logging trails in Stoddard with her husband and their 2 dogs, Kiesha and Tammy. Her last pet was her dog Sadie whom she loved and was her constant companion for the last 8 years until her passing in 2024.

Shirley loved long rides and seeing the sights. The mountains and oceans brought her joy and comfort. She looked forward to her Bingo nights with her sister Mary. She loved her jig jaw puzzles, crossword puzzles and card games.

With the gift of having a green thumb, she turned her home outside into a paradise with many species of birds and animals living it up. The inside of her home was truly home. She collected many things like hummels, copper items, dolls, and many other items collected through the years and strategically placed them with love and affection that made you feel, “There’s no place like home.”

Shirley was an awesome cook and baker. Some recipes were passed down and many were her own creations. We are fortunate that she passed these on to us. Besides being an awesome homemaker, she helped run the family business, Lucier’s TV and Appliance.

We will truly miss our mom, her love and compassion, and we will always cherish the wonderful memories she gave us throughout our lives. To us, she was the best Mom in the world.

Shirley is survived by her children, Deborah Manoleres of Clearwater Fl., Kim Thibeau (Mark) of Wilton NH, Beth Lucier (Scott) of Amherst NH, and Zoel Lucier (Christina) of Londonderry NH,

Grandchildren, Michelle, Brandon, Justin, and Micheal; Great Grandchildren, Ceaser and Aaliyah; Niece, Cathryn Tebbetts, Nephew, William Huard, and many other Nieces and Nephews.

She was predeceased by her Parents, her husband, Zoel Lucier Sr., her infant daughter, Donna Lee, Sisters Agnes and Mary, and her brothers, William Huard Sr. and Robert Huard Sr.

Per our mothers wishes there will be no service and instead requested a celebration of life. The date will be announced later. 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.

   Marlene E. (Dow) Forrence, 89, of Hudson, widow of John A. “Jack” Forrence, Sr., passed away Sunday evening, February 16, 2025 at the Community Hospice House in Merrimack, after a period of declining health.           

   A lifelong resident of Hudson, she was born in Nashua on March 28, 1935, a daughter of the late Earl and Margaret (Noyes) Dow. Educated in Hudson schools, Marlene was a graduate of Alvirne High School Class of 1952. During her years at Alvirne, she was a member of the cheerleaders.  

   In addition to raising her family, Marlene worked as an accountant at the former Centronics in Hudson; the Hudson Water Company for several years and later at Concrete Systems until her retirement.  

    She was a communicant and Eucharistic Minister of St. John The Evangelist Church in Hudson. She held membership in the Business & Professional Women’s Club of Nashua. In her leisure time, she and her husband Jack loved fishing and trips to the beach.

     Marlene was predeceased by her husband Jack, who passed away on February 21, 1998. The couple shared 35 wonderful years together.

    Members of her family include five children, Brian Landry of Franklin, Denise Morgan and her husband Robert of Florida, Lisa Ricard and her fiancé Richard Clark, Jr. of Litchfield, Joyce Nadeau and her husband Wayne of Hudson and Gerard Landry of Hudson; five grandchildren, Jason, Danielle, Gregg, Andrew and Keeley; six great-grandchildren, Gavin, Anthony, Brady, Rebecca, Alannah and Skylar; her five step-children, Joyce Wilcox and her husband John of Hudson, Jess Forrence and his wife Jean of Hudson, Judith Vadney and her husband Michael of Nashua, John Forrence Jr. and his wife Patty of Hudson and James Forrence and his wife Lori of Mont Vernon; her uncle, Roland Noyes and his wife Gail of Nashua; sister-in-law, Natalie Gendron of Nashua; also many nieces, nephews, grandnieces and grandnephews. Besides her husband and parents, Marlene was predeceased by her brothers, Harold Dow and Gary Gendron; and her sister, Earlene A. Calabro.

     There are no calling hours. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated in St. John XXIII Parish (St. John The Evangelist Church), 25 Library Street, Hudson, Monday, February 24^th at 10 a.m. Interment will follow at St. Patrick Cemetery in Hudson. Friends are invited to attend and asked to meet at the church. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her memory to the Community Hospice House, 7 Executive Park Drive, Merrimack, NH 03054. 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. 

   Jose Feliciano Neto, 67, of Nashua, NH, a native of Brazil, passed away unexpectedly on Friday morning, February 14, 2025 at St. Joseph Hospital.

   Born in Astorga City, Parana State, Brazil on December 5, 1957, he is a son of Dirce (Gallo) Feliciano and the late Joao Feliciano. Jose was educated in Brazilian schools.

   A resident of Nashua for many years, Jose worked as an automotive technician at Cappelin Auto Repair.

   Members of his family include his mother, Dirce Feliciano; his companion, Siva Neide; step-son, Hendrigo De Souza; and many relatives residing in Brazil.

   Family and friends are invited to the FARWELL FUNERAL HOME, 18 Lock Street, Nashua on Saturday morning, February 22^nd from 9:00 to 11:00 a.m. To leave an online message of condolence, please visit www.farwellfuneralservice.com 

   Sandra L. (Goodwin) Teichmann, 70, of Londonderry, wife of William A. Teichmann, Jr., passed away Tuesday afternoon, February 11, 2025 after a period of declining health.           

   Born in Nashua on February 23, 1954, she was a daughter of the late Walter E. and Pauline T. (Paro) Goodwin. “Sandy” grew up in Hudson and was educated in local schools.

   Sandy was employed with Teledyne Technologies, Inc. in Hudson as a certified solderer for 35 years and later worked for American Power Design for 8 years.

    In her leisure time, Sandy enjoyed both candlepin and ten pin bowling; loved going to the beach and dining at Markey’s Lobster Pound in Seabrook. She also enjoyed taking long rides around New England.

     Members of her family include her husband Bill, whom she married on July 8, 1972 and shared over 52 years together; her daughters, Holly A. Brier and husband Jeremy, and Michele L. Smith and husband Jeffrey Delano; two grandchildren, Jacob Brier and Ryan Smith; her sisters, Gail C. Guertin and her significant other Bruce Ottman, and the late Donna L. Goodwin, who passed away in May of 1988; also nieces, grandnieces and grandnephews.

     Family and friends are invited to the FARWELL FUNERAL HOME, 18 Lock Street, Nashua on Saturday, February 22^nd from 2 to 4 p.m. Donations may be made to a favorite charity of one’s choice. To leave an online message of condolence, please www.farwellfuneralservice.com  

   Lionel A. Cardin, 71, a longtime Nashua resident, passed away Friday afternoon, February 7, 2025 at Southern New Hampshire Medical Center after a period of declining health.          

   Born in Fort Leavenworth, Kansas on November 18, 1953, he was a son of the late SSgt. Albert B. and PFC Rose Marie (Halada) Cardin. During his early years, Lionel resided at various military bases before moving to Nashua in 1969. Lionel was educated in local schools and attended Nashua High School.

   Lionel was employed for many years with Kerk Motion Products in Hollis and continued with their successor Ametek of Milford until his retirement in April 2024.

    He will be remembered as a loving son and brother. In his leisure time, Lionel enjoyed spending time with his brother and friends and watching the Daytona 500 each year.   

   Members of his family include his brother, Joseph A. Cardin, II of Nashua; and many cousins.

   A graveside service will take place in St. Francis Xavier Cemetery in Nashua, at a later date. 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. 

    Margaret Mary Holloran, affectionately known as “Peggy”, passed away on Tuesday, February 4, 2025 after a period of declining health. Born to Kevin and Margaret Langan on February 26, 1943 in Lowell, Massachusetts, moving to Nashua, NH at the age of twelve, where she lived until recently.

     Peggy graduated from Nashua High School in 1960. While at NHS she excelled in music and business classes. She was selected for the All New England Chorus. Peggy started her employment as the A & P supermarket on Main Street and then worked for several years at Nashua Trust Company.  She ended her career as the secretary for special education at Nashua High School.

      Peggy truly married the love of her life, Robert “Bob” Holloran on August 11, 1962. They spent 56 wonderful years together building a family and having some amazing close friends. Thanks to their incredible work ethic, Peggy and Bob were able to travel after they retired and saw many places in this country and Ireland.

Peggy’s lifelong love of camping provided many friends and memories at Saco River and later on at Silver Lake Park. Peggy enjoyed sitting by the water and out on the porch watching her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren play, swim and spend time together.

      Peggy’s talent for crocheting (ensuring all new married couples received a unique blanket then baby sweaters) developed into a passion for quilting. She made sure that every loved one got a one-of-a-kind quilt from Mom/AP/Big Nana so that when you were under the quilt you could feel her love as if she was wrapping her arms around you.

       She was the daughter of the late Kevin and Margaret (Lynch) Langan. Besides her loving husband, Peggy was predeceased by her two brothers-in-law and sister-in-law, Francis “Spanky” Holloran, and William “Billy” Holloran and Joyce Holloran. Peggy is survived by her children, Kevin Holloran, Robert and his wife Sue (Sweren) Holloran, Annmarie Holloran and her husband Vinny Milano and Maryann McNeil and her husband Scott McNeil. Peggy loved being known by her grandchildren and great-grandchildren as Nana or Big Nana. Her cherished grandchildren are Brianna Linscott and her husband Jeff, Nate Holloran and his wife Mikaela, Amanda Mynhier and her husband Ben, Rachel Gross, Samantha Holloran, Ian McNeil and Maggie McNeil. She treasured her time with her great-grandchildren Tanner and Maxwell Linscott, Matthew and DJ Gross, Noah, Presley, Peyton, Sophie and Lily Mynhier, and Jolene Holloran. Her sister, Fran and her husband Mark Hendrickson; two sisters-in-law and a brother-in-law, Eleanor Holloran and Mary and James Dow. Peggy was a cherished aunt to her many nieces and nephews.

    Earth has lost an angel, but heaven has gained her. We love you, and you will be missed.

    Calling hours will be held at the FARWELL FUNERAL HOME, 18 Lock Street, Nashua on Wednesday, February 12^th from 4 to 7 p.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated in St. Patrick Church, 29 Spring Street, Nashua, Thursday, February 13^th at 9 a.m. Interment will follow at St. Patrick Cemetery in Hudson. Friends are invited to attend. To leave an online message of condolence, please visit www.farwellfuneralservice.com

   Homer L. Grooms, Jr., 92, a lifelong Nashua resident, passed away at his home, Tuesday evening, February 4, 2025.  

   Born in Nashua on June 17, 1932, he was a son of the late Homer L. and Delia (Berube) Grooms. Homer was a graduate of Nashua High School Class of 1950 and served with the Air National Guard and was activated during the Korean War from January 1951 until his honorable discharge in June 1952. He held the rank of Airman Second Class.

    Homer was a longtime employee of International Paper Box Machine Company in Nashua, where he worked in the quality assurance department for forty-three years.

    Interested in aviation, Homer received his private pilot’s license at age 16 and went on to serve with the Civil Air Patrol for twenty years with the rank of Lieutenant Colonel.

     Homer was a volunteer at Southern New Hampshire Medical Center in Nashua for twenty years and the Nashua Senior Activity Center for many years. He was a Past President of the Industrial Management Council, Nashua Chapter 1970.

     Members of his family include his wife, Claire L. (Nadeau) Grooms, whom he married on August 28, 1954 and celebrated their 70^th wedding anniversary last summer; four children, Kenneth Grooms and his wife Debra of Brooksville, FL, William Grooms and his wife Lisa of Bennington, NH, Gail Landry of Manchester and Nancy Lee Rodden of Dover, DE; six grandchildren, Shannon Duval-Grooms and her wife Danielle Duval-Grooms, Brian Landry, Jonathan Grooms, Gabrielle Rodden, Emily Rodden and the late Patrick Landry; six great-grandchildren, Erin Collins, Morgan Ottman and Shane Duval-Grooms, Jesse Grooms, Autumn Grooms and the late Aiden Grooms; two great-great-grandchildren, Sophia and Vivian Rose Collins; a brother, Raymond Grooms and his wife Barbara of Pelham; also many nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, Homer was predeceased by his sister, Lucille Sutton of Belleville, NE

      Calling hours will be held at the FARWELL FUNERAL HOME, 18 Lock Street, Nashua on Monday, February 10^th from 5 to 7 p.m. His funeral service will be held in the funeral home Tuesday, February 11^th at 10:30 a.m. Air Forces Honors and interment will take place in St. Francis Xavier Cemetery. Friends are invited to attend. Donations may be made in his memory to Home Health & Hospice, 7 Executive Park Drive, Merrimack, NH 03054. To leave an online message of condolence, please visit www.farwellfuneralservice.com  

Walter D. McLaughlin, III, 71, of Nashua, passed away at his home, Wednesday, January 29, 2025 after a brief illness. A son of the late Rita E. (Doucette) McLaughlin and Walter D. McLaughlin Jr. He was born in Laconia, NH on January 7, 1954. He grew up in Nashua and attended local schools. 

Walter worked as a skilled carpenter, tile and carpet installer, prior to his retirement. In his younger years he enjoyed fishing and was an avid golfer. He liked the challenge of completing large puzzles and was a sports fan. He was a member of the National and Polish American Clubs.                                      

Walter was predeceased by his loving companion Carol A. Clifford. Members of his family include a stepson Steven T. Jambard; two sisters and a brother, Ann L. French and her husband Richard, Susan J. Hull and her husband Gregory, Richard A. McLaughlin and his wife Sheila; also nieces, nephews and cousins. 

A private graveside service for his family will take place at St. Patrick Cemetery in Hudson. Donations may be made in his memory to Home Health & Hospice, 7 Executive Park Drive, Merrimack, NH 03054. 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.

Thomas C. Colletta 66, of Portsmouth NH, passed away Tuesday, January 28, from complications of life-long diabetes. Beloved husband of Susanne (Feely) and son of Charlie and Doris (Galipeau) Colletta, Tom spent his childhood in Nashua New Hampshire.  He attended high school at Bishop Guertin and then attended Keene State College on a full scholarship, where he earned a degree in Journalism and Public Affairs.

After graduation, Tom pursued his love of writing by working for the 1590 Broadcaster, a weekly newspaper in Nashua. He went on to write album and concert reviews for The Spotlight, the arts section of the Portsmouth Herald, and Rock Bottom Record’s Hi-Fi magazine.  He offered witty reviews of upcoming local shows and album releases in a gossip-style column titled Edna Bottomsley’s Porthole on Portsmouth.

It’s no secret that one of Tom’s biggest passions was music.  In college Tom would sing at dorm room jam sessions with a few classmates and future life-long friends.  After college, Tom played with a band called Nervous Disorder, but is best remembered as front man and singer extraordinaire first in Gandhi’s Lunchbox then Jupiter 2.  He later added harmonica and tambourine to his repertoire, and in 1996 Tom discovered a passion for the Theremin.   His unmatched humor and love of all things music resulted in performances that always exceeded expectations.  Tom was extremely proud to be a part of the Seacoast’s  vibrant music scene as both a fan and a performer.

Tom made his career working in several Seacoast music stores such as The Book and Music Outlet and Rock Bottom Records, however for the last twenty years he’s been the go-to guy at Bull Moose Records. A lover of all genres, he could point you in the right direction regardless of what you were looking for, and steer you towards what you didn’t know you needed.  Many musicians gained a wealth of knowledge listening to his stories and recommendations.  One favorite story to tell was of the time Bono accused Tom of stealing his wallet at The Hampton Club Casino where a  young U2 played to a  small audience.  Random conversations with customers often led to close friendships.

Tom was honored to be selected to represent the Portsmouth Arts Community on many occasions.  Notably as the Grand Marshall of the Portsmouth Halloween Parade in 2008, and a host of the Spotlight on the Arts Award Show.

Tom was predeceased by his parents and his partner in crime, Bob Ford, who together created some wonderful music, memories, and crazy escapades.

Considering Tom’s ardent love of music and animals, in lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Stratham, NH SPCA or The Continuum Arts Collective, a local non-profit in North Berwick, ME providing K-12 students access to materials needed to flourish (www.continuumarts.org).

Visiting hours will be held Wednesday, February 5, 2025 from 4:00 – 7:00 PM at the FARWELL FUNERAL HOME, 18 Lock Street, Nashua, NH.  A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Thursday, February 6, 2025 at 9:15 AM at St. Patrick’s Church, 29 Spring Street, Nashua, NH, followed by burial at St. Patrick’s Cemetery in Hudson, NH. To leave an online message of condolence, please visit www.farwellfuneralservice.com

   Irene T. (Seyer) Arsenault, 90, a Nashua native, widow of Joseph L. Arsenault, passed away on Tuesday, January 28, 2025 at the home of her sister, Rolande Jalbert, with whom she recently resided with.          

  A daughter of the late Ernest J. and Albertine (Thibodeau) Seyer, Irene was born in Nashua on September 5, 1934. She grew up in the French Hill neighborhood and attended the former St. Francis Xavier Parochial School.  

   Irene had been employed with Triangle Pacific Cabinet Corporation for many years and later worked for Delta Education.

   In her leisure time, Irene loved traveling, going to the beach and was a talented cook. She was a member of the Ladies of the Loyal Order of Moose Club of Nashua and was a volunteer for the Nashua Senior Companion program.

    Irene and her husband Joe, were married on September 21, 1963 and made their home in Merrimack. After her husband’s passing in October 1999, Irene moved to Rochester, NH to be closer to her son and his family.

   Members of her family include her son and daughter-in-law, Lucien G. and Jessica Arsenault of Rochester; three grandchildren, Ashley Rutkowski, Delilah Rutkowski and William Rutkowski; four great-grandchildren, Holly, Jordan, Madeleine and Jackson; her sister, Rolande R. Jalbert of Merrimack; also many nieces, nephews, grandnieces and grandnephews. In addition to her husband and parents, Irene was predeceased by her brothers and sisters-in-law, Robert E. and Rita Seyer and Roland E. and Joyce Seyer; and her brother-in-law, Gerald “Jerry” Jalbert.

   Family and friends are invited to the FARWELL FUNERAL HOME, 18 Lock Street, Nashua on Saturday, February 15^th from 8:00 to 9:30 a.m. followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at St. Louis de Gonzague Church, 50 West Hollis Street, Nashua at 10 o’clock. Donations may be made in her memory to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105. To leave an online message of condolence, please visit www.farwellfuneralservice.com  

   Rita C. (Allaire) McAllister, 82, of Concord and formerly of Nashua, widow of Robert C. McAllister, passed away Tuesday morning, January 28, 2025 at the Granite VNA Hospice in Concord, after a period of declining health.

   A resident of Concord for many years, she was born in Nashua on April 30, 1942, a daughter of the late Antonio J. and Emilienne G. (Raymond) Allaire. Rita was educated in local schools and attended Nashua High School.

    Rita worked as a sales lady at the former Miller’s clothing store in downtown Nashua for seventeen years. After moving to West Milan, NH, Rita worked at the West Milan Grocery Store and later at McDonald’s restaurant and Irving Gas Station & Store both in Concord.

    In her leisure time, Rita loved decorating her home for all the holidays; was an avid card player and loved Norman Rockwell paintings. She will be remembered as a loving wife, mother, grandmother and sister.

    Rita was predeceased by her husband Bob, who passed away April 22, 2004.

   Members of her family include her son, Gary W. McAllister; ten grandchildren, Michelle Beale, Scott, Shawn, Mike, Rita and Zachary McAllister, Samantha Vaillancourt, Colton McAllister, H.R. Droge and Michelle Cote; eight great-grandchildren, Scott McAllister, Jr, Dillon McAllister, Rhiannon McAllister-Beale, Marco McAllister, Maverick McAllister, Dean Vaillancourt, Avery McAllister and Kieran McAllister; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins. In addition to her husband and parents, Rita was also predeceased by her brothers, Antonio Allaire Jr. and his wife Clare, Rudolph Allaire and his wife Marguerite and T. Sgt Leo R.J. Allaire; a sister, Jeannine L. Chestmolowicz and her husband Frank.    

   Family and friends are invited to the FARWELL FUNERAL HOME, 18 Lock Street, Nashua on Saturday, February 8^th from 2 to 4 p.m. with a prayer service beginning at 3:30 p.m. Interment will take place in Edgewood Cemetery at a later date. Donations may be made in her memory to the New Hampshire Food Bank or the Salvation Army. To leave an online message of condolence, please visit www.farwellfuneralservice.com  

Thomas Michael O’Brien was born July 6, 1958, in Lynn, MA. He was gently called home by our Lord on January 26, 2025, surrounded by love and family at Community Hospice House in Merrimack.

Tom lived in Billerica and Tewksbury, MA, and moved to Nashua, NH in 1994 to start our life together.  He quickly fell in love with Hollis where we spent much of our outdoor time.

Tom graduated from Billerica Memorial High in 1976 and attended Middlesex Community College.

Tom fought a courageous battle with an aggressive metastatic colon cancer. He was so blessed to have spent his final days in such a peaceful, nurturing home where he was offered music therapy, dog therapy and tasty home-cooked comfort food.  He had a beautiful, forested view through wide and tall windows and had a five-star private room.

Tom fought like a grizzly bear to battle the monster, but it took a firm hold and never let go.  It was a battle no one could have won.  While cancer stole his body, dignity, ability to walk, voice, ability to enjoy food and drink and independence, it did not take his sense of humor, kindness, love of family and friends, courage, faith in God or zest for life.  He never once asked “Why me?” or showed any anger toward God.  His caregivers all loved him for his fighting spirit and his cheerful attitude, even in spite of the excruciating pain he endured.  One LNA remarked to him “Tom, you look so cute” (in his bright yellow) shirt.  He remarked, with the quietest of voices, “I’m ADORABLE”.  It was nice to have a moment of laughter.  As his soulmate, I never stopped trying to save him. I went to most every medical appointment.  I read every doctor note and article I could find.  I managed appointments and so much medication.  I oversaw as many procedures as I could.  I yelled; I screamed for better care when needed.  I was his voice when his was gone. I strongly advocated for him among medical professionals.  I spent endless quiet hours by his bedside, as did his childhood friend, Jim Lavoie.  When Tom asked me to “stay overnight”, that was my first indication that his journey to Heaven had begun in earnest.  Tom also had the strong support of a loving extended family (and their cheerful dogs) which surely lifted everyone’s spirits.

Tom loved working as a Composite Technician at BAE Systems, Merrimack, NH, where he received many special awards.  He worked extremely hard but still had fun working with his team.  Even after Tom had received a terminal diagnosis, he still hoped to return to work.  He rarely missed work except for illness.  We had hoped to retire to a warmer climate.

Tom enjoyed travelling to Vegas, Hawaii, Northeast Kingdom, Vermont, Colorado, Texas, Maine, Star Island and Nashville.  He had always hoped to get back to his “Mother” land – Hawaii. He was not a fan of winter but would willingly trudge through the new fallen snow to  track wild animals, take the dogs out, or care for the horses, all to be by my side.

Tom loved rock music (Murder Dolls, Alice in Chains, and Rolling Stones).  However, he reluctantly at first, accompanied me to Chris Young and Kane Brown concerts and made the best of it.  He and I met Chris several times and Tom always talked football with him.  We travelled to many states to see Chris Young.  He did this for me.  In fact, I was injured at CMA Fest and he had to cart me around in a wheelchair in 90-degree humid heat. That is love. Tom even attended one concert with a broken rib and was getting tossed about and in a lot of pain…for me.

Our favorite television shows were Game of Thrones, Sopranos, Tulsa, Sons of Anarchy, Dexter and our #1 Friends.  We had a game to guess what the next line of Friends would be.  We also loved playing Jeopardy. We loved horror movies, comedies, true crime, travel show, HGTV, history and documentaries.

We loved just hanging with the horses.  They brought us peace, hope and serenity.  He loved to see me with horses because it made me so happy.  Even when he could barely walk, he wanted me to set him up in the pasture so he could watch me groom them as he was too weak to do so.  His favorite horse is a beautiful chestnut named JJ.  He enjoyed helping me groom and caring for horses over the years-having no fear of them because he trusted I would never put him in harm’s way.  He watched me ride for hours and helped get the horses ready for me.  He even rode once or twice.  When a horse took off on him after being spooked, somehow he managed to stay on.  He was not a dog trainer when we first met, but I surely turned him into a knowledgeable, compassionate trainer.  Tom was my cheerleader at many dog competitions with our beloved Borita. He helped care for and train hundreds of dogs through the years, saving many lives that may have been lost.  He volunteered to do kennel duty and walk as many dogs as he could.  We had made several trips to save baby squirrels, baby birds, bunnies, etc.  He would always stop for turtles and get them to safety. Tom came to know that if I wanted to stop to make sure an animal in the road was actually dead, there was no sense in arguing with me. Tom was great at catching dogs that were in harm’s way. He had no fear, which is one reason even the toughest animals took to him.  Tom was part of the protest against Michael Vick and spoke in front of various committees to save wildlife habitat. He was in a documentary about saving New Hampshire’s bobcats from trapping. He helped fight against puppy mills.  Tom was dedicated to animal rescue and advocacy, especially for Rottweilers and bully breeds. He volunteered for Paisley’s Place, a non-profit that saves equines from slaughter.  These equines were huge and nervous around new people, but Tom instantly became a part of their herd.

We loved spending time at Greeley Park, Bensons, Beaver Brook and Monson Center.  We enjoyed peaceful drives in Hollis and Temple to spot deer, coyote, fox or bobcat.  We have had several sightings of Moose when we travelled up north, as well as many black bear.  We used to drive for hours listening to Dean Koontz and Stephen King audio books. I was his ride or die, always.

He cherished family time every Sunday to watch football and eat home cooked food. His favorite food was eggplant parmigiana made by his sister, Julie and shepherd’s pie from his other sister, Tracey. He was thrilled to have been able to attend two Patriots Superbowl Parades, games and practices during TB12 glory days!  We both stood out in large crowds, 100-degree weather shoulder-to-shoulder just to get a glimpse of the great ones doing their thing.  Even with today’s current team, Tom never gave up on them. I remember one night though it looked like the Pats would lose the Superbowl against the Eagles and Tom finally went to bed.  Then Tom Brady got the ball and, I screamed “Get up Tom, Brady’s got the ball with a minute to go!” Tom got to try on Super Bowl ring replicas at the Patriots experience and stand next to a statue of the team. We had so much fun at Gillette stadium.  He loved to talk football with his brother, Corey, and his friend Dennis Brodeur.

He was happy to see that Trump had won!

Tom taught Kung-Fu and women’s self-defense courses at Michael Macaris Kung- Fu Academy in Billerica, MA for many years.  He also competed in Martial Arts as a 2^nd degree black belt.

Tom had a big, courageous heart.  He once intervened at a Boston park when a gang of people were attacking a park goer. He was able to get the person to safety but the police thought Tom was the one that beat up the man at first so he was handcuffed.  Another time, Tom pulled a person out of rolled over car that was leaking gasoline.  He was kind and I know that he will have a good seat at the Lord’s table because of it.

Recently baptized, Tom was a communicant of Immaculate Conception Church.  We prayed faithfully and asked for a miracle or at least comfort from the pain and mental anguish.  While we were not honored with a miracle to save his life, instead we were blessed to have him pass in a wonderful home setting surrounded by those he loved the most. THAT was the miracle. Though our hearts will always have a piece missing, it was not right for any of us to ask him to stay.  He had to go because his suffering was beyond measure.  Ironically, Tom woke up with eyes wide as he was receiving prayer from an Immaculate Conception Church volunteer, his heart slowly beat for the last time. I ran over to him and he was still breathing with his eyes half open. I comforted him and was grateful for those last seconds as we looked into each other’s eyes for the last time in the 30 beautiful years we shared.  I only hoped he would see me and hear me as I laid one final kiss on him.  Shortly after, the winter sun came through the window surrounding Tom’s face in love and welcoming warmth.  So, I was wrong. We did actually get that miracle because we saw his suffering end and saw him being welcomed by Angels and loved ones that were waiting for him.  He had a smile and peaceful look of relief upon his face. His grimace of pain was no more.

Tom was predeceased by his loving father, Allen Thain.  Survivors include his longtime “lobster” and soulmate, Denise Muccioli, Mother Patricia Thain (DeCecca), Sisters: Julie Ramalho and husband Arthur Ramalho, Jr., Tracey Greenwood and husband Joseph Greenwood, Rhonda Thain-Sweet and boyfriend William Paskiewicz, Brother Corey Thain and wife Jessica Thain, dear friends James Lavoie, Laurie Lavoie, Diane Muccioli, Paula Ledoux, Cousins Rick Jones and Kim Tobey, many nieces and nephews and “his” beloved dog, Luna.

In lieu of flowers, donations would be appreciated: Paisley’s Place and the Home of the Unadoptables, 148 Pulpit Road, Bedford, NH, 03110.  PayPal: @unadoptables

Calling hours will be held at the FARWELL FUNERAL HOME, 18 Lock Street, Nashua, on Sunday afternoon, February 2^nd from 3 to 5 p.m. His Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Monday, February 3^rd at 10 a.m. in Immaculate Conception Church, 216 East Dunstable Road, followed by burial at Woodlawn Cemetery, both in Nashua. To leave an online message of condolence, please visit www.farwellfuneralservice.com

   Victor Armand Grenier, 87, of Nashua, passed away Saturday afternoon, January 25, 2025 at St. Joseph Hospital, after a brief period of declining health.          

   A resident of Nashua since the mid 1990s, he was born in Berlin, New Hampshire on August 1, 1937, a son of the late Simeon T. and Rose Lina (Couture) Grenier. Educated in Berlin, Victor was a graduate of Notre Dame High School. While attending Boston College and the University of New Hampshire, he enlisted in the Army and served two tours of duty in Vietnam. During his military service, Victor was assigned with Army Intelligence and held the rank of Staff Sergeant.   

   Following his honorable discharge in January 1964, Victor furthered his education at the University of Maryland where he earned a bachelor’s degree. He also studied Chinese at the Presidio School in California.  

    Victor was employed as a civil service worker for the federal government. During his career, he worked in several countries in Europe and Asia.

     He was a member of The Nashua Richelieu Club.

   Members of his family include a brother, Donald E. Grenier of Nashua; a sister, Jeannine Coulombe of Berlin; also numerous nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, Victor was predeceased by two brothers, Maurice and Raymond Grenier; and two sisters, Theresa DiPesa and Lorraine Lettre.

   A prayer service will be held at the Bryant Funeral Home, 1 Promenade Street in Gorham, NH, Tuesday, February 4^th at 1:00 p.m. followed by interment at Holy Family Cemetery. To leave an online message of condolence, please visit www.farwellfuneralservice.com The Farwell Funeral Service, 18 Lock Street, Nashua, is assisting the family with local arrangements.

   Kevin W. Smith, 72, of Nashua, passed away very peacefully at his home, on Friday evening January 24, 2025, with his loving wife, dog Kimmy and family by  his side.          

   A resident of Nashua for the greater part of his life, Kevin was born in Orange, California on July 2, 1952, a son of the late Walter J. and Mary C. (Johnson) Smith. Educated in local schools, he attended Bishop Guertin High School and graduated from Nashua High School.

   Kevin had been employed in the carpet and flooring business for many years and had been associated with Shattuck Rug & Flooring.

   Kevin was a beloved and devoted husband to his wife Deborah and he never passed up a chance to tell someone how lucky he was. Kevin was also an incredibly proud father and grandfather and his most happy times were spent with his family.

    So many have looked up to Kevin as a father figure, especially his brother-in-law Fred Lilley who he treated as a son and Nina Raymond who he considered a daughter. Kevin was an honest hard-working man that many respected and he always shared his words of wisdom and life experiences with anyone willing to listen. Kevin was the most dependable person to his family’s life. He was always there for them anytime anywhere. Kevin will always be known for his love of fishing, smoking burgers on the grill from dawn to dusk, and he will always be remembered for his incredible love for great music as he loved dancing with his wife and family. Kevin was so very deeply loved and admired by his family and his memory will live on forever through them.

   In addition to his parents, Kevin was predeceased by two sisters, Amy F. Smith and Mary Eileen Tinker; and two brothers, Steven J. Smith and Brian E. Smith.

   Members of his family include his beloved wife, Deborah J. (Lilley) Smith, whom he married in 1978 and shared over 46 years together; his three children, Christopher Smith, Holly Duchesne and her husband Jeffrey, and Corey Smith and his partner Nina Raymond; five grandchildren, Jacob, Brady and Isabella Duchesne, Amelia and Oliver Smith; two brothers, Matthew P. Smith and Daniel J. Smith; two sisters, Cathlin L. Smith and Melissa E. Hall and her husband Nathaniel; also many nieces and nephews.

    Family and friends are invited to the FARWELL FUNERAL HOME, 18 Lock Street, Nashua on Thursday, February 13^th beginning at 12 noon followed by a service at 1:30 p.m. Interment will take place in Woodlawn Cemetery. To leave an online message of condolence, please visit www.farwellfuneralservice.com

Roberta Louise Von Hagel (nee Haase) passed away Friday, January 24, 2025 at the Community Hospice House in Merrimack, after a long-fought battle with dementia.

She was born May 22, 1939 in Baltimore, Maryland to parents Louis Robert Haase and Amelia May (Love) Haase. As a child, Roberta, known to most as Bobbie, lived in Maryland, Pennsylvania, West Virginia, and Illinois as the family followed her father’s career with the B&O railroad.

In addition to being an exemplary student, Bobbie also took many years of tap, gymnastic and ballet lessons.

She received her degree in mathematics from the University of Maryland in 1961, and a Master of Business Administration degree from Plymouth State University in 1991. For most of her career, Bobbie worked as an accountant.

Bobbie was married in Baltimore on December 23, 1961, to Robert Von Hagel and had 3 daughters. She moved to Nashua, New Hampshire from Baltimore with her family in 1966 and became involved in many local civic organizations including the League of Women Voters, and also ran for Nashua Ward Alderman in the late 1960’s.

Bobbie had a generous heart when it came to animals and had many pet dogs and cats in her lifetime. She was an expert knitter and crocheter, winning many awards at state fairs. She also enjoyed crafting and painting. Bobbie’s daughters were the beneficiaries of her talents, not only by being the recipients of her beautifully made creations, but of the patient teaching of those skills that encouraged a lifetime love of creativity which inspired her children to become accomplished artisans. She also had a strong interest in genealogy, reading, and colonial-era history, to the extent that she bought and lived in a home built in 1766.

For the last 30 years Bobbie lived in various states across the country and resided in North Carolina for the last 13 years, until returning to Nashua in 2022.

Survivors include her daughters Susan (Timothy) Fabian, Sandra (Scott) Silva, and Sharon West, and grandchildren Allison Silva and Jackson West, as well as several nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her sister, Jane Wingrove, brother, George Haase, both her parents and her former husband, Robert Von Hagel.

The funeral and burial will be private.  Memorial donations may be made to The Humane Society for Greater Nashua at https://www.hsfn.org/donate-now/

The FARWELL FUNERAL SERVICE, 18 Lock Street, Nashua, is assisting the family with arrangements. To leave an online message of condolence, please visit www.farwellfuneralservice.com

Bernadette Lherisson Jean-Louis, 87, of Vermont, passed away on January 16, 2025, at the White River Inn and Suites after a 17-year struggle with declining health.

Born on January 6, 1938, in Jeremie, Haiti, she was the child of Eugen and Esther Lherisson. She married Dulorin Jean-Louis on September 8, 1959, and they had several children: Jean-Claude Lherisson, Greger Jean-Louis and his wife Marie Cilotte, Luc Jean-Louis, Carline Jean-Louis, and Wildade Jean-Louis. Her family includes grandchildren Martine Lherisson, Carine Lherisson Jean-Baptiste and her husband Guy-Claude, grandson Greger Farell Jean-Louis II, Chrissy Joel, Carlens Pierre, Claudy Florences, Cedric, and Mathieu Lherisson, along with their great-grandchildren, Christian Dominick, Sarrah Charlotte, Jean-Baptiste, Maurine Pierre, and Neissa Lherisson. She had several nieces, nephews, and cousins Her niece, Marie Narold Duvignaud, Marie Nirva Lherisson Louis-Paul, and her husband Rodolphe Louis-Paul, Marvin and Ralph Louis-Paul, and her nephew Hansy Lherisson, Jacques Duvignaud Jr., first Gerald Duvignaud. And her cousin Jean-Camy, Georges, Mirtha, Josue, and Sabine Lherisson and Jean-Alixe, Jean-Erick, Nicole, Roselyne Damus Additionally, she has family in Laval, Quebec, Canada, including Marie Carline Germeil and her husband Adler Alisma, along with their children Arline and Adler Alisma.

Bernadette immigrated to the United States on November 1, 2008, up until her death on January 16^th 2025. She faced numerous health challenges, beginning with heart attack on February 6^th 2009, requiring emergency pacemaker.. In the months following, she was diagnosed with breast cancer and underwent a double mastectomy, followed by many severe pulmonary embolisms. From that, she developed thyroid cancer and underwent thyroidectomy surgeries a month later. Approximately two years later, she developed dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. Her complicated decline in health required multiple hospital stays within a two-year span and numerous procedures. Despite her struggles, Bernadette fought and held on until the very end, where she passed peacefully at home. During the decline of her health her health, Bernadette regularly maintained a joyful mood and even could be heard singing or humming at times in her hospital room. Though Bernadette may be gone from our sights, she will never be gone from our hearts. We will honor the memories, stories, and unconditionally love that she taught us. Her life was marked by resilience, love for family, and enduring faith despite her struggles.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated in Immaculate Conception Church, 216 East Dunstable Road, Nashua, NH, Saturday, February 1^st at 10 a.m. Her family will receive relatives and friends at the church beginning at 9 a.m. Bernadette will be laid to rest in the Mausoleum of Woodlawn Cemetery in Nashua immediately following the Mass. 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.