Author Archives: Dana Farwell

Lieutenant Colonel (Retired) Daniel A. Tracy, III, 79, of Nashua, passed away at his home, Tuesday morning, October 22, 2024, after fighting aggressive Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS).  He is survived by his beloved wife of 57 years, Susanne M. Tracy (Koszalka), daughter Lisa M. DesLauriers (Todd), of Manassas, VA, son’s Michael E. Tracy, of Blakeslee, PA, Scott D. Tracy (Jodie), of Greenfield, NH, and daughter, Erin A. Racca (Justin), of Londonderry, NH; nine grandchildren; and six siblings.

Born in Buffalo, New York, July 31, 1945, the eldest of eight children of the late Daniel A. Tracy, Jr. and Mary J. (Tronolone) Tracy. After graduating from high school, “Dan” earned his Bachelor’s degree from Niagara University, and a Master’s in Business Administration.

In January 1967, during the Vietnam War, Dan was drafted and enlisted in the United States Army and went on to serve his country for 23 years, culminating his prestigious military career at Fort Devens, MA.

A resident of Nashua for over 40 years, Dan enjoyed a second 20-year career with Prudential Insurance as an Investment Adviser and Broker until his retirement in 2023.  Dan was a founding member of Sky Meadow Country Club and you could often find him enjoying a round of golf with his family and friends. He is fondly nicknamed, “the Mayor” by his children, because he would often be found making his rounds and engaging all he greeted. He was a beacon of light, and would be heard before seen, with his infectious laugh, outgoing personality and gregarious humor. A lifelong and avid Buffalo Bills fan, you often found him representing his team and hopeful for the Bills progression to the Superbowl. Dan was fixture in the Nashua community and served as a communicant of St. Christopher’s Catholic Church.

Calling hours will be held at the FARWELL FUNERAL HOME, 18 Lock Street, Nashua on Tuesday, October 29^th from 4 to 7 p.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated in St. Christopher Church, 62 Manchester Street, Nashua, Wednesday, October 30^th at 10 a.m. Full Army Funeral Honors and interment will follow at the New Hampshire State Veterans Cemetery in Boscawen at 12:30 p.m. Family and friends are invited to attend. Donations may be made to https://www.als.org/. To leave an online message of condolence, please visit www.farwellfuneralservice.com 

   James B. Creech, 79, of Merrimack, NH and formerly of Arlington, MA, passed away Friday morning, October 18, 2024 at Elliot Hospital in Manchester after a brief period of declining health.          

   A resident of Merrimack for many years, he was born in Arlington, Massachusetts on September 19, 1945, son of the late James C. and Eleanor (Govoni) Creech.

   Jim was educated in Arlington schools and enlisted in Navy at the age of 17. He served aboard the USS Okinawa during the Vietnam War. Following his honorable discharge, Jim worked as a sales representative in the advertising office of the Lowell Sun for several years until he retired.

   Jim enjoyed photography and fishing in his leisure time. In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his wife of over 30 years, Arlene M. “Terry” (Avallone) Creech, who passed away February 19, 2019; and his brother, Crawford Creech of Epsom, NH.

    Members of his family include his sisters, Donna Greenhalgh of Nashua, NH and Patricia DiFazio of Moultonborough, NH; a step-daughter, Lisa Stanton of Peabody, MA; nieces and nephews, Deborah Sgro, Robert DiFazio, Lee Greenhalgh, Crawford Creech and Diane Avallone; also many grandnieces and grandnephews.

     A Graveside service and Navy Honors will take place at the New Hampshire State Veterans Cemetery, 110 Daniel Webster Highway in Boscawen, Thursday, November 14^th at 11 a.m. Friends are invited to attend. To leave an online message of condolence, please visit www.farwellfuneralservice.com Arrangements are in the care of the Farwell Funeral Service, 18 Lock Street, Nashua.

   Leonie A. “Lee” (Cote) Dublow, 91, formerly of Gillis Street, Nashua, widow of Anthony J. “Buddy” Dublow, Jr., passed away Thursday, August 24, 2023 at the University of Kentucky Hospital in Lexington, KY.          

    Born in Nashua on September 8, 1931, she was a daughter of the late Robert C. and Celedase (DesRocher) Cote. Educated in local schools, Lee graduated high school and earned her Associates degree in nursing.  As a longtime registered nurse, Lee worked at both local hospitals and nursing homes.

    In addition to her parents and husband, Lee was predeceased by four brothers, Maurice I. Cote, Robert L. Cote, Richard A. Cote and Paul R. Cote; and four sisters, Monique Grondin, Rita Cote, Isadora Cote and Lucille Shurkus.

   Surviving members of her family include her sons and daughters-in-law, David A. and Gracia Dublow of Toronto, Ontario Canada and Brian J. and Georgia Dublow of Fort Kent, ME; granddaughters, Gillean L. Dublow, Genevieve Dublow, Harley M. Dublow and Keeneland M. R. Dublow; a sister, Jenne C. Kennedy of Manchester, NH; also nieces and nephews.

   A Graveside service will take place in St. Louis Cemetery, 752 West Hollis Street, Nashua, Saturday, October 19^th at noon. Family and friends are invited to attend.

To leave an online message of condolence, please visit www.farwellfuneralservice.com Arrangements are in the care of the FARWELL FUNERAL SERVICE, 18 Lock Street, Nashua.

Sandra Hemming Cole, formerly of Yarmouth Port, MA, passed away peacefully on Sunday, October 13, 2024, after declining health from the effects of Alzheimer’s.  She was 87.

Born on March 9, 1937, in NYC, Sandy was the daughter of Raymond V. and Doris (Dottie) Hemming.  They moved to Columbus, Ohio, and eventually settled in Ithaca, NY.  Childhood piano lessons became a lifelong passion for Sandy.  She studied pipe organ at Cornell University where she graduated in 1958, Phi Beta Kappa, with a BA in Music.  Sandy started a 60-year career as a church organist in Ithaca.  She also taught elementary school from 1958-1962 in Ithaca while earning her MS in Education at SUNY Cortland.

In 1967 she moved with her young family and former spouse, Ernest J Cole, Jr, to Yarmouth Port. She fostered her passion for music becoming the organist for St Mary’s Episcopal Church in Barnstable.  Sandy enjoyed her time as church organist there for 33 years, a tenure that included the installation of the Karl Wilhelm Pipe Organ in 1986.  Her daughters were raised within the Family Choir and many lifelong friendships were formed.  After retiring from St Mary’s in 2000, Sandy enjoyed spending time with her grandchildren as well as international travel.  She returned to the organ bench in 2005 at Church of the Holy Spirit in Orleans where she continued until retiring in 2018.

Sandy continued her teaching career as a part time music instructor at Cape Cod Community College from 1968-1975 as well as Assistant Director and Accompanist of the Concert Choir from 1975-1981. Sandy returned to the classroom in 1981 with the Barnstable School District to teach Gr. K-6 general music and choral ensembles until her retirement in 1999. Well known within the music community on the Cape, Sandy accompanied many choirs and theatrical productions.  She was a member of the American Guild of Organists and served as the Chapter Dean from 1978-1980.

The most important thing to Sandy was family.  She relished every moment visiting her grandchildren, attending their many performances, and hosting them each summer.  Her dear friends from church, “The Belles of St Mary’s”, and her longtime neighborhood friends kept a busy social schedule.  Eventually Sandy relocated to Pepperell, MA, to live with her daughter due to health issues.  She moved into RiverCourt Residences of Groton, MA, in 2022 where she remained until her passing.  Her family wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude for the excellent care and genuine love she received from the staff.  Ascend Hospice assisted during her final years, establishing comfort with dignity.

Sandy was a true matriarch for her family leaving behind a legacy of music, family traditions, celebrations, and laughter which lives on strong in each member.  She is survived by a sister, Penny and her husband John Tuthill of Richardson, TX; two daughters, Jennifer and her husband Charles Ellars of Pepperell, and Amy Cole of Yarmouth Port.  She has two nephews and one niece who live with their families in Texas.  Her legacy lives on strongest through her three grandchildren, all professional musicians.  A memorial service will be planned on Cape Cod at a future date.  In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Sandra Cole’s memory to Ascend Hospice & Palliative Care, 352 Belmont St, Worcester, MA, 01604 or to the Alzheimer’s Association:  http://act.alz.org/goto/Sandy_Cole

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

   Mary Agnes (Seaver) Kirby, passed away on Monday, October 7, 2024 at the age of 94. Mary was born September 29, 1930 in Arlington, Massachusetts, a daughter of the late George R. and Mary J. “Molly” (Ahearn) Seaver. In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her sisters, Margaret Hayes Bell and Florence Mulkern.

   She is survived by her husband Ed of Nashua, NH and her brother George R. Seaver, Jr. and his wife Nancy of Alexandria, VA.

    Mary was raised in Arlington, MA and attended Arlington public schools. Mary went on to graduate from Forsyth School of Dental Hygiene in Boston. Mary worked as a Dental Hygienist until she chose to become an Army Officer’s wife when she married 1^st Lt. Edward J. Kirby of Brookline, MA on August 21, 1954. She traveled to Germany, Okinawa, and numerous stateside locations as she accompanied Ed on his 23 – year Army Career.

     In addition to her role as an Officer’s wife, she was the mother of and raised six beautiful children, Mary Beckette (Fred), Kathy Weeden (Wes), Eddie Kirby (Joy), Patty Ekins (Jim), Mike Kirby and Alison Kirby. Upon Ed’s retirement in 1974 the family settled in Nashua, NH. Mary has fourteen grandchildren and eleven great-grandchildren.

     Mary was a devout Catholic who had a strong devotion to Saint Gerard and the Blessed Mother. She enjoyed attending daily Mass. Mary loved music and dancing and had a great social life with her neighborhood group, the Gourmet group, and the Kirby Sibs.

    The family wishes to express its heartfelt appreciation to the exceptional staff at The Epsom Healthcare Center and Bayada Hospice who provided Mary with exceptional comfort and care.

     Calling hours will be held at the FARWELL FUNERAL HOME, 18 Lock Street, Nashua on Friday, October 18^th from 4 to 7 p.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated in St. Christopher Church, 62 Manchester Street, Nashua, Saturday, October 19^th at 10 a.m. Interment will follow in Edgewood Cemetery. Family and friends are invited to attend. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Mary’s memory can be made to the Epsom Healthcare Center, 901 Suncook Hwy, Epsom, NH 03234. To leave an online message of condolence, please visit www.farwellfuneralservice.com

Frank S. Ulcickas, 81, passed away October 3, 2024, at St. Joseph Hospital, Nashua, where he was born February 24, 1943, the son of Simon and Mary (Legatavicius) Ulcickas. He was educated in local schools and graduated fourth in his class from Nashua High School, Class of 1961.

While at Nashua High, Frank distinguished himself as both scholar and athlete. He played football, basketball, and baseball for iconic coaches Charles “Buzz” Harvey and Anthony “Tony” Marandos, both of whom he considered second fathers. Frank, along with his teammates, brought home state championships in all three sports.

At Harvard University, Frank continued his athletic career, playing freshman football and baseball. He played end position varsity football for three years; varsity baseball his sophomore year and expanded his love for sports by playing rugby his junior and senior years. Frank was also active in the Hasty Pudding Club and Pi Eta Club.

After graduating from Harvard in 1965, Frank studied at the University of Paris, Sorbonne, 1965-1966. He then entered the US Army Officer Candidate School, graduating with honors at Ft. Eustis, VA in 1967.

Frank served his entire tour as the Principal Assistant to the 46th Group, Security, Plans and Operations Officer. Frank was also selected as an aide to the National Strategy Seminar at the US Army War College.

Following his Army service, Frank became involved in civic and community programs, while at the same time keeping active in athletics. For many enjoyable years, he played Men’s slow-pitch softball, most notably on the Stan’s Place Team. He was instrumental in bringing the Holiday Basketball Festival Tournament to the city and held various positions on the NHIAA Executive Council and NH Softball Association Executive Committee. Frank was one of the founders of the Friends of Nashua High Athletics and a two-time inductee in the Nashua’s Legends of Holman Hall of Fame. Frank was a member of the American Legion Baseball Committee and worked hard to bring the New Hampshire Senior Legion Baseball Tournament to Nashua’s Holman Stadium and served as Tournament Chairman for over a decade. In 2019, he received a certificate from American Legion National Headquarters for his achievement of 50 continuous years of membership in James E. Coffey Post 3, Nashua, NH.

Frank took great pride and pleasure from his civic activities in Nashua. He was a member of the Nashua Board of Education for six years. He was on the Board of Directors of the Boys Club of Nashua and a member of its Board of Incorporators. Frank was also a Director of the Nashua Senior Center and a member of the Committee for the Elm St.

Auditorium. Frank was an active fund-raiser for many of the programs with which he was involved. As part of a team, Frank’s photos are included in the “Moments in New Hampshire” art installation in the lobby of the NH State Liquor store on Coliseum Ave. in Nashua.

One of the founding members of the local Lithuanian-American Cultural group LABAS, held the position of President of the group and worked with the concert committee. He coordinated local celebrations for Lithuanian Independence Day, and met with the team of the “Global True Lithuania” website, Destination Lithuanian America 2023, to provide historic perspective on local Lithuanian-Americans. Frank was proud of his Lithuanian heritage, he taught himself to read and write Lithuanian, and travelled to Lithuania several times to find and visit family.

Frank worked as a financial advisor for Prudential-Bache, A.G. Edwards and Wells Fargo investment firms for a total of 44 years.

He met Candace “Candy” (McQuaid) when they were young teenagers. They married and loved each other for 56 years. Of all Frank’s many accomplishments, the ones of which he was most proud were his late son, Simon David, his daughter-in-law Anne-Marie and grandson Darius.

Frank was pre-deceased by his parents, his son, Simon, his two older brothers Simon and Peter and their wives. He is survived by his wife, Candy, his daughter-in-law Anne-Marie and grandson Darius of London, England; his brother-in-law David F. McQuaid of Nashua; nieces Anne Garrymore of Green Brier, W. VA; Marianne Ulcickas-Yood of Newton, MA; Dorothy Ulcickas of Mansfield, MA; nephews John Ulcickas and his wife Cindi of Nashua; James Ulcickas and wife Julie Ann of Santa Anna, CA, cousins and many friends.

Calling hours will be held at the FARWELL FUNERAL HOME, 18 Lock Street, Nashua, on Friday, October 25^th from 4 to 6 p.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated in St. Patrick Church, 29 Spring Street, Nashua, Saturday, October 26^th at 10 a.m. Family and friends are invited to attend. The family has requested that in lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Tory C. Marandos Foundation c/o Southern New Hampshire University, 2500 North River Road, Manchester, NH 03106 or 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

   Mary Jane (Bradley) McLellan, 76, of Hillsboro and formerly of Litchfield and Nashua, passed away Tuesday evening, October 1, 2024 at Concord Hospital. Mary Jane is the widow of Robert E. McLellan.          

   Born in Nashua on February 23, 1948, she was a daughter of the late Maurice A. and Dora C. (McLellan) Bradley.  Educated in local schools, Mary Jane was a graduate of Nashua High School Class of 1965.

    A resident of Hillsboro since November of 2023, Mary Jane previously made her home in Litchfield for 29 years. Mary Jane was a former member and officer of the Loyal Order of Moose Lodge #110 and a member of the Cribbage League of the Knights of Columbus Council 122, both of Nashua.

   Mary Jane was predeceased by her husband Robert, who passed away June 4, 2016. They were married June 20, 1987 and shared 29 years together. She was also predeceased by her brothers, Richard Bradley and his wife Cookie, Paul Bradley, William Bradley and Thomas Bradley; and her sisters, Cora Phillips and Gladys Jacques.

   Members of her family include her daughter and son-in-law, Mary Beth and Scott Bishop of Litchfield; two grandchildren, Jacob and Alicesen Bishop; sister-in-law, Claudette Bradley of Concord; her dear, sweet friend, Michelle Eastman, whom she loved; also many nieces, nephews and cousins.

    A celebration of her life will be held in the FARWELL FUNERAL HOME, 18 Lock Street, Nashua, Monday, November 18th from 10 to 11 a.m. followed by interment in Edgewood Cemetery. Friends are invited to attend. Donations may be made in her memory to the Humane Society for Greater Nashua, 24 Ferry Road, Nashua, NH 03064. To leave an online message of condolence, please visit www.farwellfuneralservice.com  

  HER MEMORIAL SERVICE WILL BE HELD ON SATURDAY, OCTOBER 26TH AT 10 A.M. AT THE FIRST CHURCH, ONE CONCORD STREET, NASHUA, FOLLOWED BY A RECEPTION IN THE CHURCH HALL. FRIENDS ARE INVITED TO ATTEND.

   The Rev. Dr. Vera M. Wingate, 81, of Hollis, NH, wife of Charles E. Wingate, Jr., MD, passed away at her home, Thursday, July 25, 2024, after a period of declining health. 

    Born in Princeton, Texas on March 12, 1943, she was a daughter of the late Felan Randall and Vernice Lillian (Tyler) Montgomery. Vera was a graduate of Princeton High School, Princeton, Texas Class of 1961 and attended various courses in business colleges in Dallas, TX. Vera earned a Bachelor’s degree in Human Services from New Hampshire College in Hooksett in 1988. She continued her education at Andover Newton Theological School, Newton Center, MA with a Masters degree in Divinity in 1990 and received her Doctor of Ministry from Bangor Theological, Bangor, Maine in 2001.

    A resident of Hollis, NH since 1975, Vera also made her home in Nashua in 1974, after residing in Harrisburg, PA, Alexandria and Richmond, VA. From 1974-77 Vera was the Office Manager and Ophthalmic Medical Assistant for her husband, Charles E. Wingate, Jr, M.D., as he set up his ophthalmology practice.

     In 1990, Vera became Pastor of Bethany Chapel Community Church, U.C.C. and served there until 2013. She then served as Interim Ministry at the Hooksett Congregational Church, UCC in Hooksett, NH until 2019. Vera led services and preached as pulpit supply at various churches in New Hampshire, mostly in the Hillsborough Association. Her last pulpit supply was at The First Church, Nashua on August 25, 2019.

    She led the Bethany Chapel as it claimed its history while preserving its location, as it became a community meeting place in suppers and celebrations, as it proclaimed ministry in baptisms, communion, weddings, and in memorial celebrations of life. Vera was president of the Manchester Clergy Association for two years in the mid 1990s. She was a member of the Citizen’s Advisory Board, New Hampshire State Women’s Prison for ten years until 2008.

     Vera was a Prison Ministry Advocate in the New Hampshire Conference, UCC, 2000-2006; Hillsborough Association Scribe (NHC, UCC) ten years ending early 2000s; the Hillsborough Association Executive Committee, two years in mid 1990s; and the Hillsborough Association Committee on Church and Ministry early to mid 2000s. She was the recipient of the Daughters of the American Revolution Preservation Award, October 2005 and the Good Samaritan Award from Pastoral Counseling Services, Manchester, NH in 2009. Vera also served on various committees in the New Hampshire Conference, UCC late 1980s-2006.

     Her personal interests included crocheting, crossword and word search puzzles, drawing and coloring artwork, caring for her grandchildren who gave her such pride and joy; and celebrating birthdays and holidays with her family.

Members of her family include her husband Charles, whom she married on June 15, 1968 at Dickerson Chapel, Dallas, TX and celebrated their 56^th anniversary in 2024; her children, Charles Edward Wingate, III and his wife Jessica Dery Wingate of Windham, NH, and Caroline Endress Wingate Labrecque and her husband Wayne A. Labrecque of Nashua, NH; her grandchildren, Bradley Charles Wingate, Parker Raymond Wingate, Charlotte Wingate Labrecque and Cailyn Wingate Labrecque; her four siblings, Don Henry Montgomery of Sherman, TX, Kathleen Montgomery of Ravenna, TX, Carolyn Montgomery Dunn and her husband Jackie of Brashear, TX and the late Kenneth Randall Montgomery, who passed away in June 2018; with numerous nieces and nephews. Robert M. Wingate and wife, Patricia Wingate; Dr. Joseph L. Wingate and wife, Ada Wingate; and numerous nieces and nephews.

A private graveside service will be held for her family. A Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, October 26th at 10 a.m. in The First Church, One Concord Street, Nashua, followed by a reception in the church hall. Friends are invited to attend. To leave an online message of condolence, please visit www.farwellfuneralservic.ecom . Arrangements are in the care of the FARWELL FUNERAL SERVICE, 18 Lock Street, Nashua.  In lieu of flowers memorial donations can be made to Bethany Chapel Community Church, 54 Newbury Road Manchester, NH 03103; The First Church, 1 Concord Street Nashua, NH 03064; The St. Joseph Hospital Cancer Center,  172 Kinsley Street Nashua, NH 03060.

CHANGE OF PLACE OF FUNERAL MASS: Due to renovations at St. Christopher Church, the Funeral Mass will be celebrated at IMMACULATE CONCEPTION CHURCH, 216 EAST DUNSTABLE ROAD, NASHUA, NH, WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 27th AT 10 a.m. Interment will follow at St. Patrick Cemetery in Hudson. Friends are invited to attend.

Michael Peter Murauckas, 80, of Doylestown, PA, a native and former Nashua resident, passed away Monday evening, September 16, 2024 at Doylestown Hospital after a period of declining health.     

  Born in Nashua on July 8, 1944, he was the son of the late Peter J. and Ruth E. (Dugan) Murauckas. He first attended St. Patrick’s School and moved to St. Christopher’s through 8th grade. He made life-long bonds during those years and regularly connected with those friends until very recently. Michael was a graduate of Nashua High School Class of 1962. It was at Nashua High School that he discovered his love of theatre and acting, performing in and working behind the scenes on many productions in Boston, New York City and Philadelphia. He worked in his later years at The Walnut Street Theatre in Philadelphia. Michael could quote verbatim, and often did, lyrics and playbook from most Broadway musicals. He furthered his education at Saint Anselm’s College where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree and developed his interest in and expansive knowledge of animals and birds. He was a Navy veteran of the Vietnam War serving on the USS Sanctuary in Vietnam. After serving in the military, Michael worked as a Neuro-Psychiatric Technician for many years with hospitals in Boston, New York and Philadelphia. A gentle soul with a kind and loving disposition and a tremendous sense of humor, Michael nurtured lasting friendships from all periods of school, work, service, and life. Many friends consistently spoke with him up until his final days.  

  Members of his family include his sister, Leslie R. Murauckas and Rod Chase of Bucksport, ME; a nephew and two nieces, Peter Brown and his wife Tina, Megan C. Murauckas and Jennifer L. Murauckas; and cousins. In addition to his parents, Michael was predeceased by his sister, Christine M. Brown Tremblay, who passed away in March 2022.

    A Funeral Mass will be celebrated in Immaculate Conception Church, 216 East Dunstable Road, Nashua, Wednesday, November 27th at 10 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 Arrangements are in the care of the Farwell Funeral Service, 18 Lock Street, Nashua.

Tatyana T. Strapko, 89, of Nashua, NH, formerly of South River, NJ, passed away peacefully at home on Friday, September 13, 2024. Born in Belarus, Tatyana immigrated to the United States with her husband, Stefan Strapko, following World War II. She spent the majority of her life in South River, where she lovingly raised her two sons. In her later years, Tatyana relocated to Nashua to be closer to her family. A woman of deep faith, she was a former communicant of St. Euphrosynia Belarusian G.O. Church in South River. Tatyana found joy in the beauty of flowers, gardening, and long walks, and she cherished classic films and animals, particularly dogs, which held a special place in her heart.

Tatyana was predeceased by her parents, Ivan and Maria Selesniowski and her husband, Stefan in 2017.  She is survived by her sons, Dr. Stefan Strapko, Jr. of Nashua, NH and Nicholas Strapko and his wife, Sarah of McLean, VA and a brother-in-law, Michael Strapko of Rockford, IL.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend her 10:00 AM Funeral Service at St. Mary’s R.O. Church, 316 Cassville Road, Jackson on Monday, September 23, 2024.  Interment will follow in St. Vladimir’s R.O. Cemetery.  For those who desire, memorial contributions maybe made to an animal shelter of your choice.  For information, directions or condolence messages to the family, visit www.claytonfuneralhome.com.

Local arrangements were in the care of the Farwell Funeral Service, 18 Lock Street, Nashua, NH. To view an online message of condolence, please visit www.farwellfuneralservice.com

   Mark R. Faulkner, 65, of Concord and formerly of Nashua, passed away at his home, Sunday, September 1, 2024 after a period of declining health.         

    Born in Nashua on November 11, 1958, he was a son of the late David W. Sr. and Jeannette T. (Blanchette) Faulkner. Educated in local schools, Mark was a graduate of Nashua High School Class of 1976.

    Mark had been employed by the City of Nashua as a foreman with the Parks & Recreation Department for 27 years.

    A resident of Concord for the past nine years, he previously made his home in Nashua, Hudson and Litchfield. Mark was a longtime member of The Tabernacle Baptist Church in Litchfield and currently a member of the Trinity Baptist Church in Concord.

    Mark was a devoted husband and father, who always loved helping and caring for others. An avid outdoorsman, Mark enjoyed gardening and taking care of his lawns and landscape at his home. He was a sports fan of the Patriots and the Boston teams and enjoyed motorcycling with his wife, Gloria. Mark was active in coaching high school basketball and the A.A.U. He coached both Boys & Girls basketball teams at Tabernacle Baptist Church to three State Championships.

    Members of his family include his beloved wife of 44 years, Gloria M. (Normandin) Faulkner, whom he married on April 11, 1980; his children, Jeremy M. Faulkner and Bethany T. Faulkner; his brothers, Erick Faulkner and his wife Jill, and James Faulkner and his wife Tawnya; his sisters, Dawna Adams, Erica Lavalley and her husband Shane, and Linda Toney and her husband John; also many nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, Mark was also predeceased by a brother, David W. Faulkner Jr.; and sisters, Marcelle Simpson and infant twins Erica and Wanda Faulkner.

     His family will receive relatives and friends at The Tabernacle Baptist Church, 242 Derry Road, Route 102 in Litchfield, NH on Saturday, September 7^th from 9 to 10:30 a.m. followed by a Celebration of Life service at 11 o’clock. A reception will follow the service. Those wishing to send flowers, are asked to have them delivered to the Tabernacle Baptist Church on Friday, September 6^th. 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 arrangements.

   Cynthia M. Howe, 90, a longtime Nashua resident and most recently of South Burlington, VT, passed away Friday evening, August 30, 2024, peacefully and surrounded by her family.

    Born in Cambridge, Massachusetts on July 31, 1934, she was the daughter of the late Montrose H. and Violet G. (Thompson) MacLeod. Cynthia moved with her family to Nashua during her early years and was a graduate of Nashua High School Class of 1952.

    Cynthia married Alan F. Howe on September 12, 1954 and briefly resided in Virginia during his service in the Air Force. They moved back and forth from Nashua to Texas and Illinois, then finally back to Nashua. While in Nashua, they made their home – and many friends – on Hughey Street, Harris Street and, for several decades, on Manchester Street.

    She had many jobs over her lifetime, but if you asked her where she worked, she would fondly recount her long career as a legal secretary at Clancy & O’Neill, PA of Nashua. In her leisure time, Cynthia enjoyed gardening and was never so happy as when she was ‘playing in the dirt’. She also enjoyed still-life and landscape painting, was an avid reader, and loved listening to Barbara Streisand, Neil Diamond, Elvis Presley, opera, musicals, and classics from the 50s and 60s. Above all things, though, Cynthia loved spending time with her many dear friends and cherished family. Her kindness, generosity, and love live on in the hearts and minds of them all.

    In addition to her parents, Cynthia was predeceased by her husband, who passed away January 8, 2009; her daughter, Deborah E. West of Loomis, CA who passed away June 20, 2017; and her brother, Donald MacLeod.

     She is survived by her son, Alan K. Howe and his wife Stephanie B. Stahl of Colchester, VT; son-in-law, Gordon L. West of Loomis, CA; her grandchildren, Courtney West, Kellen G. West and his wife Anna Bergman, Carter A. Howe and Emily D. Howe; great-grandchild, Lennox West; nieces and nephews, David MacLeod and his wife Sally, Clifford MacLeod and his wife Valerie and Karen (MacLeod) Weston and her husband John.

     Calling hours will be held at the FARWELL FUNERAL HOME, 18 Lock Street, Nashua on Friday, September 13^th from 4-6pm. Her funeral service will be held in the funeral home, Saturday, September 14^th at 11 a.m. followed by a reception. Interment will take place in Edgewood Cemetery at later date. Memorial donations: Cynthia was a generous supporter of many charities including St. Jude’s, the American Cancer Society and several veterans’ charities. The family asks that you consider honoring her generosity by donating in her name to your charity of choice. To leave an online message of condolence, please visit www.farwellfuneralservice.com

With great sadness the family of Sandra A. Pelletier announces her passing on August 26, 2024, at the age of 77. She was born on August 7, 1947, and was the beloved daughter of the late Roland and Aurore (Soucy) Pelletier.  She was one of seven children.  She was raised in Hudson, NH and moved to Milford, NH in 2006.

Sandra loved music, movies, puzzles, long rides, celebrations, and holiday gatherings.  Her family meant so much to her and she truly meant so much to them.  She was very sociable and happy to spend time with family and friends enjoying their company and conversation. She was a bright light and will be missed deeply.

Sandra is survived by her brother Roland (Sharrel) Pelletier of Boynton Beach, FL and her sister Susan (Randy) Turmel of Nashua, NH and her special Aunt Connie Acquino. She is also survived by many nieces, nephews and cousins all of whom were dear to her.

She was predeceased by her sisters Beatrice (Frank) Godbois, Linda (Richard) Nixon, and her brothers Michael (Judy) Pelletier and Normand (Nadine) Pelletier.

Her family would like to thank staff at Crestwood Center in Milford, NH for the care given to her over the years and would also like to thank Amedisys Hospice Care for the care and compassion given to her during her last months.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Thursday, September 26, 2024,10:00 a.m. at Crossway Christian Church, 503 Main Dunstable Rd., Nashua, NH.

Sandra is now at peace in the presence of her Savior Jesus Christ and is once again with loved ones that passed before her, especially her parents. She will be forever in our hearts.

To leave an online message of condolence, please visit www.farwellfuneralservice.com

   Gerard F. “Jerry” Pombrio, 82, of Litchfield, NH, passed away Sunday afternoon, August 25, 2024 at the Community Hospice House in Merrimack, after a period of declining health.  

    Born in Nashua on December 29, 1941, he was a son of the late Gerard Pombrio and Lorraine Pombrio Oban. Jerry was also predeceased by his stepfather, William Oban and his stepmother, Rita Pombrio.

     Educated in local schools, he was a graduate of Nashua High School Class of 1960. Jerry had been employed with Anheuser Busch in Merrimack as a fork-lift operator for over thirty years. Jerry enjoyed golf and was a fan of the Boston sports teams. He also took pride in caring for his lawn and landscaping at his home.

    Members of his family include his wife of 60 years, Doreen S. (O’Loughlin) Pombrio; his daughters, Kimberly Cushman of Litchfield and Heather Racicot and her husband John of Nashua; three grandchildren, Nathan Cushman and his wife Meredith of Manchester, Rachyl Cushman of Candia and Drew Bedard of Nashua; a great-grandson, Oakley Cushman of Manchester; a brother, Bruce Pombrio and his wife Marge of Florida; a sister, Gail Crosby and her husband Steve of Nashua; also nieces, nephews and cousins.

     There are no calling hours. A Graveside Service will take place at St. Patrick Cemetery, 71 Derry Road, Route 102 in Hudson, Saturday, August 31^st at 11 a.m. Family and friends are invited to attend. Donations may be made in his memory to the Community Hospice House or 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.

Nashua, NH – Grita Helga (Hohmeyer) Schneck, 75, of Nashua, NH and Venice, FL, died peacefully August 24th in the loving presence of family.

Born January 19, 1949 in Hausberge an der Porte, Germany, to Ernest Sr. and Elsbeth Hohmeyer, Grita immigrated to the United States in 1954. She spent her youth in New Jersey, before relocating to Lake Clear, NY as a teenager to help run a family business The Lodge on Lake Clear.

During a ski trip with her sister Cornelia and friend Kathy, Grita was relaxing in the lodge when she locked eyes with a handsome young man named George Schneck and they instantly fell in love. Grita and George were married a year later and they were blessed to have 52 years of marriage.

Outside of her love and devotion to George, Grita’s greatest joy was her family. Grita was a proud mother to four children and grandmother to nine grandchildren. She would often say that she had the best kids and grandkids and would admire watching how lovingly they treated one another. George always credited Grita with bringing hugs and affection to the entire family that continues to be shared by all today.

Grita had hidden talents that weren’t on display to everyone. She was an amazing painter. Grita loved to garden and with George created a beautiful rock garden at their home in Deering. She loved music. Grita could belt out a good tune when no one was listening. Although she could reportedly hammer on an organ, she rather enjoyed humming to her husband and kids as they played their string instruments and piano. She secretly listened to Snoop Dogg as motivation when working out. Grita was an avid reader. While balancing family and work, Grita obtained her Master’s Degree in Counseling and Psychotherapy from Notre Dame College in Manchester, NH, graduating Magna Cum Laude. She loved her time teaching and would go on to dedicate most of her career to social work.

Grita and George took some memorable trips together to the islands and her homeland Germany. They both agreed that their greatest journey was sharing the beautiful life they created together.

Grita is survived by her husband of 52 years George; daughter Krista Robichaud and grandchildren Franklin Didado and Gavin Robichaud; daughter Tanja Tatelman (Josh) and grandchildren Tyler and Peyton; daughter Erica Marinelli (Domenic) and grandchildren Bryan, Luke, and Emma; son Kyle Schneck (Amanda) and grandchildren Alexa and Austin; sister Cornelia Tieman (Bob); brother Ernest Homeyer Jr. (Cathy); and other endeared family and friends.

Grita was preceded in death by her parents Ernest Sr. and Elsbeth Hohmeyer; in-laws August and Adeline Schneck; brother in-law Arthur Schneck; sister in-law Sandra Schneck; and nephew Bryan Schneck.

A private Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. The Family would like to thank Dana Farber Cancer Institute, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, St. Joseph Hospital, and Amedisys, for the compassionate care Grita received. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Grita’s name to Concord Community Music School, 23 Wall St, Concord, NH 03301   https://www.ccmusicschool.org

To leave an online message of condolence, please visit www.farwellfuneralservice.com The Farwell Funeral Service, 18 Lock Street, Nashua, assisted the family with arrangements.

   Herbert E. “Bert” Hafley, III, 60, of Merrimack, husband of Lisa (Fernandes) Hafley, passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, August 21, 2024.         

    Born in Albany, New York on November 11, 1963, he was the son of the late Herbert E. Jr. and Patricia (Elwell) Hafley. During his early years, Bert and his family resided in Voorheesville, NY before moving to Nashua in 1969.

    Bert was a graduate of Nashua High School Class of 1981 and furthered his education at Plymouth State University, graduating with a Bachelor’s degree in 1985. A longtime sales representative with Sherwin-Williams and Valspar paints, Bert previously worked at Nashua Wallpaper & Paint Company and with Cabot Wood Stains.

    In his leisure, Bert loved spending his summers boating on Lake Winnipesaukee, hunting in the fall, golfing and traveling.  He was a huge New England sports fan evident from his ‘man cave’ and enjoyed nature and wildlife.  Most of all, Bert loved spending time with his family and many friends; nothing else was more important to him. He loved nothing more than lending an ear, helping others in any situation and being a loving husband, father, son, grandfather, brother and friend. 

    Members of his family include his wife Lisa, who were high school sweethearts and whom he married on July 20, 1985 and shared the past 47 years together (39 married); his daughters, Sarah Cooksey and her husband Craig of Gilford, NH and Samantha Hafley of Salem, MA; twin grandsons, Cade and Carver Cooksey; his sisters, Karen Brown and her husband Steven of Chesterfield, MO and Debra Alcox and her husband Allan of Park City, UT; sister-in-law, Rebecca Parisi-Caron and brother-in-law, Dennis Caron and also nieces, nephews, cousins and many friends.

     Calling hours will be held at the FARWELL FUNERAL HOME, 18 Lock Street, Nashua on Wednesday, August 28^th from 4 to 7 p.m. His funeral service will be held at the Church of the Good Shepherd, 214 Main Street, Nashua, Thursday afternoon, August 29^th at 2 p.m. Friends are invited to attend. Donations may be made in his memory to Manchester Animal Shelter, 490 Dunbarton Road, Manchester, NH 03102. To leave an online message of condolence, please visit www.farwellfuneralservice.com