Author Archives: DSD

Antonio M. “Tony” Ferreira, 42, of Nashua, husband of Michelle A. (Bourbeau) Ferreira, died unexpectedly Thursday morning, March 12, 2015 at Elliot Hospital in Manchester.

    A native and lifelong Nashua resident, Tony was born on February 14, 1973, a son of Maria (Coroa) Ferreira and the late Alvaro Ferreira. Educated in local schools, he was a graduate of Nashua High School.

    Tony had been employed with Vulcan Flex Circuits Corporation in Manchester where he worked in circuit board production.

    An avid outdoorsman, Tony loved hunting and fishing and was a Boston Bruins fan. He loved his family and will be remembered for his heart of gold, outgoing personality and his positive outlook on life.

    Members of his family include his wife Michelle, whom he married on February 19, 1995 and recently celebrated their 20^th wedding anniversary; three children, Ryan Bourbeau of Nashua, PFC Travis Ferreira, US Army stationed in Afghanistan, and Alivia Ferreira of Nashua; his mother, Maria Ferreira of Nashua; a brother, Jason Ferreira and his wife Danielle of Hudson; his maternal grandfather, Gabriel Coroa of Canada; father-in-law and mother-in-law, Oscar and Paula Bourbeau of Belmont, NH; also aunts, uncles and cousins.

    Calling hours will be held at the FARWELL FUNERAL HOME, 18 Lock Street, Nashua on Tuesday from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated in St. Louis de Gonzague Church, 48 West Hollis Street, Nashua, Wednesday morning at 10 o’clock. Interment will follow in Woodlawn Cemetery. Friends are invited to attend and will gather at the church. Arrangements are in the care of the FARWELL FUNERAL SERVICE. (603) 882-0591. www.farwellfuneral.com

Sandra Hills, 76, of Nashua and formerly of Hollis, died Saturday morning, March 21, 2015 at Southern New Hampshire Medical Center in Nashua after a period of declining health.

    Miss Hills was born in Nashua on November 25, 1938, a daughter of the late Charles S. and Catherine (Stickney) Hills. Sandy lived in Hollis for many years and was a graduate of Hollis High School, Class of 1957.

    She had been employed with several local businesses including Olan Mills Portrait Studio’s. In her leisure time, Sandy enjoyed reading, solving crossword puzzles and crocheting. She also loved animals, especially her cat “Kitty”.

     Members of her family include a sister, Judy A. Slater of Cobleskill, NY; nieces and nephews, Eugene Collard of Florida, Terri Collard of Kennebunk, ME, Jeremy Collard of Cobleskill, NY, Daphne Bartlett of Virginia, and Stephanie Slater of Berne, NY; a grandniece, Amber Rose Collard of New York; grandnephews, Richard Bartlett III of Rhode Island, Anthony Bartlett and Austin M. Bartlett both of Virginia, Jeremy C. Collard Jr. of New York and Kelton Collard of Florida; and several cousins.

      SERVICES: There are no calling hours. A graveside service will take place at East Cemetery, Hollis, NH in the Spring. Arrangements are in the care of the FARWELL FUNERAL SERVICE, 18 Lock Street, Nashua. (603) 882-0591. www.farwellfuneral.com

    M. Theresa Dacey, 82, of Nashua, wife of Paul F. Dacey, passed away Wednesday morning, March 11, 2015 at St. Joseph Hospital in Nashua after a period of declining health.

    Mrs. Dacey was born in Somerville, Massachusetts on June 27, 1932, a daughter of the late Thomas and Alice (Cahill) Hayes. Educated in Somerville, Theresa was a graduate of St. Joseph High School Class of 1949.

    A resident of Nashua for the past 48 years, Theresa had worked as a bookkeeper at St. Patrick Church for over twenty five years. She enjoyed playing bingo and loved trips to Foxwoods.

    Members of her family include her husband Paul, whom she married on November 21, 1959 and shared 55 wonderful years together; three children, Michael Dacey, Linda Dacey and James Dacey and his longtime partner Denise Murray all of Nashua; a brother-in-law John Palmer of Somerville, MA; and many nieces, nephews, grandnieces and grandnephews. In addition to her parents, Theresa was predeceased by two brothers, Thomas and Lawrence Hayes; and two sisters, Helen Palmer and Alice Hayes.

    Calling hours will be held at the FARWELL FUNERAL HOME, 18 Lock Street, Nashua on Monday, March 16^th from 4 to 8 p.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated in St. Patrick Church, 29 Spring Street, Nashua, Tuesday morning at 9:30 a.m. Interment will take place at St. Patrick Cemetery in Hudson. Family and friends are invited to attend and will gather at the church. Donations may be made in her memory to the Humane Society of Greater Nashua, 24 Ferry Road, Nashua, NH 03064. Arrangements are in the care of the FARWELL FUNERAL SERVICE. (603) 882-0591. www.farwellfuneral.com

Mary F. Merrill, 89, of  Amherst, NH, passed away March 9 in the presence of her loving family and her Pastor, Rev. Margaret Lewis.

Born in Bath, Maine, on October 26, 1925, she was the daughter of Charles R. and Bertha (Campbell) Furber, and was one of five children.  A graduate of Morse High School in Bath, she worked as a teller at a local bank.  Following World War II and after her marriage to B. Leonard Merrill, the love of her life, she moved to Nashua in 1951.

Mary’s life centered around her family, her church, and her career as school secretary and homemaker.  Nothing made her happier than cooking a large dinner and having the family over to share it, hosting family Christmas gatherings, or visiting her children at their homes.  She and her husband of 68 years were inseparable.

She was very active in the life of the First Baptist Church of Nashua:  Women’s Fellowship president and fair chairwoman for many years, Circle leader, choir member, Vacation Bible School teacher, Deacon.  At 80 years old, she developed a Visitation Program, and faithfully visited home-bound church members.   Church was the center of her life; she made many close friends there throughout the years, and was known as “Mom” by several church members. 

Mary found the time to do much volunteer work, even while working as the secretary at Ledge Street, Mount Pleasant, and Temple Street Schools.  After retirement, she looked back fondly upon those years as school secretary: a position she loved.

When their children were in their teenage years, Mary and Leonard hosted two exchange students who became part of the family:  Yoko Tajima of Tokyo, Japan, and Monica Widman of Vasteras, Sweden.  Those ties have remained strong throughout the years.

Following retirement, Mary and her husband Leonard moved to Southport Island, Maine, for ten years, returning to southern NH in 2009 to be nearer to the family.  Even in her elder years, she continued to exercise faithfully, knit sweaters and prayer shawls, and visit the homebound.

Family members include her husband Leonard; a son, Edmund Merrill of Bedford; two daughters, Diane Pomeroy of Cornwall, PA and Janice Miller of Amherst, NH and their spouses; three grandchildren, five great-grandchildren, a sister, Harriet Carter; several nieces and nephews.

Calling hours will be held on Friday, March 13^th from 6:00 – 8:00 pm at the First Baptist Church of Nashua on 121 Manchester Street, and the celebration of Mary’s life will be held at the First Baptist Church Saturday, March 14^th at 11:00 a.m.  The service will be followed by light refreshments and interment at Edgewood Cemetery.  Memorial donations may be made in Mary’s honor to the First Baptist Church of Nashua. Arrangements are in the care of the FARWELL FUNERAL SERVICE, 18 Lock Street, Nashua. (603) 882-0591. www.farwellfuneral.com

Mary Margaret (Gaffney) Kelley, 51, of Nashua, NH, wife of the late Kevin F. Kelley, died unexpectedly at her home, Sunday, March 8, 2015.

   A daughter of the late William E. and Kay K. (Coleman) Gaffney, Mary was born in Syracuse, New York on August 12, 1963. She grew up in Watertown, NY and was educated there. A resident of Nashua for over twenty five years, Mary loved spending time with her family, camping and traveling with her husband on many vacations to Jamaica. Mary loved animals, especially her cats, “Trouble” and “Bella”.

    In addition to her parents, Mary was predeceased by her husband Kevin who died January 14, 2011. They were married on February 12, 1980 and shared over 30 years together. She was also predeceased by a sister, Kathleen L. Hunsaker.

    Members of her family include her five siblings, Martha A. Collins and her husband Ron of Black River, NY, Susan M. Gaffney and Claire J. Gaffney both of Watertown, NY, Brian J. Gaffney and his wife Jessica of Connecticut and Paul H. Gaffney and his wife Michelle of Watertown, NY; many nieces and nephews; and three grandnieces and grandnephews.

     Calling hours will be held at the FARWELL FUNERAL HOME, 18 Lock Street, Nashua on Friday evening from 5 to 7 p.m. Following cremation, interment will take place in Watertown, New York at a later date. Friends wishing to express their sympathy, may make donations in her memory to a charity of their choice. Arrangements are in the care of the FARWELL FUNERAL SERVICE. (603) 882-0591. www.farwellfuneral.com

   Helen E. “Tootie” LaCasse, 78, of Hudson, passed away Saturday afternoon, March 7, 2015 at Southern New Hampshire Medical Center in Nashua after a period of declining health.

    A resident of Hudson for many years, Mrs. LaCasse was born in Tyngsboro, Massachusetts on September 28, 1936, a daughter of the late Howard E. and Lillian (Lynch) Rich. She attended the Winslow Grammar School in Tyngsboro and graduated from Lowell High School Class of 1955.

     Helen was an avid gardener, loved music and dancing and had a great love for Toads.  She will be remembered as a loving mother and grandmother who adored little children and was known for her sense of humor. She was a member of the American Legion Post 48 Auxiliary of Hudson. Helen’s lucky numbers were 284.

     In addition to her parents, Helen was predeceased by her former husband, Harvey D. LaCasse; a sister, Dorothy Courchaine; and three brothers, Charles, Howard and Donald Rich.

     Members of her family include two sons, Bryan LaCasse and Brett LaCasse both of California; three daughters, Brenda Carter of Sandown, Bonnie Fauteux of Washington, NH and Barbie Clark of Hudson; fourteen grandchildren, Tony Lee, Erica Carter, Karissa Daigle, Derek Ellstrom, Caleb, Benjamin and Emilou Fauteux, Steven and Shaun Clark, Nicole, Michael, Adam, Casey and Jessey LaCasse; eight great-grandchildren; also many nieces and nephews.

      SERVICES: There are no calling hours. Following cremation, Mrs. LaCasse will be laid to rest at the Tyngsboro Memorial Cemetery at a later date. Arrangements are in the care of the FARWELL FUNERAL SERVICE, 18 Lock Street, Nashua. (603) 882-0591. www.farwellfuneral.com

Maurice J. Labine, 66, of Litchfield, NH, formerly of Tyngsborough and New Bedford, MA, passed away at his home, Friday morning, March 6, 2015 after a brief illness.

     Born in Nashua on October 24, 1948, he was a son of the late Joseph U. and Jeanne A. (Soucy) Labine. “Moe” grew up in New Bedford, Massachusetts and was a graduate of New Bedford High School Class of 1967 and played on the Buccaneers baseball team. He furthered his education at Roger Williams University in Bristol, Rhode Island where he earned a degree in accounting.

   Mr. Labine was a longtime accountant and had been employed with Thermos and later at Whole Sale Doors of Watertown, MA for several years.

    A resident of Litchfield for the past three years, Moe had previously made his home in Tyngsborough, MA from 1981 to 2004. In his leisure time, Moe enjoyed playing golf and was a sports fan of the Boston Red Sox, Bruins, Celtics and New England Patriots.

      Members of his family include his three children, Kerry A. Labine of Nashua, Christopher P. Labine and his wife Kellie of California and Steven R. Labine of Tyngsborough, MA; six grandchildren, Justine, C.J., Chealsee, Mitchell, Dakota and Kelcey; a brother, Dr. Paul U. Labine and his wife Eugenie Golden of Florida; a nephew, Carl Labine of Kansas; five grandnieces and grandnephews and two great-grandnieces; three aunts and one uncle, Marie J. Labine of Nashua, Beatrice L. Soucy of Hudson, and Blanche A. “Bianca” and Charles H. Farwell, Jr. of Nashua; and many cousins. In addition to his parents, Maurice was predeceased by a great-granddaughter, Skyla Marie Knight who died in April 2013.

    Calling hours will be held at the FARWELL FUNERAL HOME, 18 Lock Street, Nashua on Sunday afternoon, March 8^th from 3 to 5 p.m. Following cremation, a graveside service will take place at a later date. Arrangements are in the care of the FARWELL FUNERAL SERVICE. (603) 882-0591. www.farwellfuneral.com

Lorraine Nanette (DeCelle) McMahon, 87, of Nashua, wife of William J. McMahon, died Sunday evening, March 1, 2015 at Catholic Medical Center in Manchester, due to complications resulting from Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease. Lorraine was surrounded by her loving family.

     A daughter of the late Alexander and Adrienne (Marquis) DeCelle, she was born in Nashua on May 20, 1927. Raised in the Crown Hill neighborhood of this city, Lorraine was a graduate of Nashua High School Class of 1947 and graduated from the former Nashua Business College.

     Lorraine worked as an administrative assistant for many years with Memorial Hospital now Southern New Hampshire Medical Center, as well as for Doctors Olson, Taggart & Ong and later for Kopka Real Estate.

    Her interests included cooking, baking and taking trips to the coast of Maine, especially Cape Elizabeth where she formerly resided. Lorraine was an avid Bridge player, enjoyed watercolor painting, arranging flowers in the most beautiful way and shopping. Lorraine held fond memories of her younger years, spending time with her childhood friend, the late Veronica “Sis” (Hickey) Williams; jitter bugging the night away, while also turning a few of the boys heads at the same time. They were quite a pair.

   Lorraine had been in declining health the past few years with COPD and CHF. Her most recent battle proved to simply be too much for her to overcome. Her family is strengthened by the courage she has displayed in her attempt to overcome both this recent battle, and many other obstacles that life has dealt her along the way. We find comfort in our hearts knowing that she is once again able to enjoy the colors of a new Spring garden, the sounds of children playing on the beach and is dancing on a star for eternity.

     Members of her family include her husband “Bill” McMahon with whom she shared 63 years together; three children, Kathleen French of Manchester, Shane P. McMahon and his spouse, Manon McMahon of Litchfield, and Shaun T. McMahon of Dublin, NH and his significant other, Patricia Pepin; four grandchildren, Kristin and Karrie French, Joshua McMahon and Shaina Conrad; five great-grandchildren; her sister, Estelle Pelletier of Nashua; also nieces, nephews and cousins.

     Calling hours will be held at the FARWELL FUNERAL HOME, 18 Lock Street, Nashua on Friday evening from 6 to 8 p.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated in St. Francis of Assisi Church, 1 Sterling Road in Litchfield, NH, Saturday morning at 11:30 a.m. Family and friends are invited to attend and will gather at the church. Interment will take place at a later date. Donations may be made in her memory to the Visiting Nurse Association, 1070 Holt Avenue, Manchester, NH 03109.Arrangements are in the care of the FARWELL FUNERAL SERVICE. (603) 882-0591. www.farwellfuneralcom 

William Albert Champagne of Nashua, passed away on Saturday, February 28, 2015 at St. Joseph Hospital in Nashua at the age of 84. He was surrounded by his family and had been experiencing declining health since October. Bill was predeceased by his beloved wife, Barbara Jean Champagne. He rarely missed a day with her, as she spent nine years immobilized after a car accident, until her passing in 2009.

     Members of his family include a son, Robert William Champagne and four grandchildren, Michael Champagne and his wife Kylee (McCullock) Champagne, Caitlyn Champagne, Scott Champagne and his girlfriend Jayme Denisco, and Devin Champagne; and a sister, Frances “Franny” Mohn. William and Earlene Colman of Manchester and Paul and Jeanne Caron of Hudson, NH were his lifelong friends.

      William was born February 27, 1931 in Manchester, NH to the late William Albert and Corrine (Royer) Champagne. He was predeceased by a sister and a brother, Rita Woods and Gean Champagne. After graduating from Manchester Central High School, Bill joined the United States Navy in 1950. He went to Radiological Defense School and attained the rank of Seaman 1^st class. Most of his Naval career was spent maintaining the flight simulator and teaching Morse code to the trainees in the pilot program. Later he received his degree in drafting. Bill married Barbara Jean Gagnon in Manchester on July 31, 1954. They moved to Nashua in 1966 after building their home nights and weekends from the ground up. His home was his true pride and joy. Bill worked for Improved Machinery for 25 years before working for Sanders Associates and Lockheed Martin. Fifteen of those years he spent working weekends at the Alpine Grove in Hollis, from which he had “a lot of fond memories”. After his retirement from Lockheed Martin, he worked part time at Towers Motor Parts in Nashua.

      William, known to most as “Bill” or “Papa” will be remembered as a devoted husband, father, grandfather and friend. He was an avid reader who often posted quotes around the house or in various places for words of encouragement for his family and friends. He loved the outdoors and was a walking encyclopedia when it came to plants, animals, birds and insects. Bill hiked, fished, hunted and enjoyed taxidermy. He loved gardening, canoeing and birdwatching; and shared these pastimes with his wife for many years. He kept bee hives, raised quail, chickens, and made wine. Bill loved music and dancing and in his younger years he had been a member of a barbershop quartet. He attributed these last two to his father and the enjoyment he had found in his dad playing the fiddle while growing up on the farm in Auburn. He also had a a passion for aviation, loved going to air shows, collected model planes, and had almost completed his air miles for his pilot’s license. Bill’s favorite recent experiences were riding in a Stearman biplane and a B-17 flying fortess.

      SERVICES: Family and friends are welcome to join us in a celebration of his life on Saturday, April 11^th from 12 to 4 p.m. at Alpine Grove, 19 South Depot Road, Rte 111-A in Hollis, NH. Private encryptment will take place in the Mausoleum of Woodlawn Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the New Hampshire Audubon, 84 Silk Farm Road, Concord, NH 03301. nha@nhaudubon.org Arrangements are in the care of the FARWELL FUNERAL SERVICE, 18 Lock Street, Nashua. (603) 882-0591. www.farwellfuneral.com

Prominent and highly respected musician and educator, Nashua native Albert A. “Berdie” LaFlamme died Friday evening, February 27, 2015 at his home after a period of declining health. Born January 9, 1925 Albert had just celebrated his 90^th Birthday with his family and friends.

      The third son of George and Rose (Lalmond) LaFlamme and married to Joan M. (Messier) LaFlamme for 67 years, Albert and Joan would have celebrated their 68^th wedding anniversary this May. Berdie attended local schools, graduating from Nashua High School in 1942. He served with the US Navy during World War II as a Combat Gunner and studied percussion with the renowned George B. Stone, Associate Professor – Boston University-Percussion for five years.

      Berdie worked as a machinist for many years when he chose to open a music store in Milford in 1955, LaFlamme Music Store at the Oval in Milford, NH. While working in Milford, Berdie founded the Milford Spartan Drum and Bugle Corps –then moving to Nashua to expand the opportunities for the youth of Nashua. In 1974 Berdie was awarded the Service to Youth Award for his dedication and teachings to the youth of Nashua. Since its inception, the Spartans have received National Acclaim for their winning ways over the past 60 years.

     In 1966 Berdie earned his New Hampshire Teaching Certificate and started his teaching career at Nathaniel Hawthorne College moving on to the Salem, NH School District for the next twenty two years. During his tenure in Salem, Berdie was recognized numerous times for his dedication and success to the Salem program. He received the Teacher of the Year Award in May of 1981 and was inducted to the Salem High School Hall of Fame on October 6, 2006.

   Berdie also served as Chairman of the Solo Ensemble Festival for the New Hampshire Educators Association at Plymouth State College in March of 1983.

  A family man, Berdie loved his family and enjoyed watching the family grow to eight children, seventeen grandchildren and fourteen great-grandchildren. After retiring Berdie became an avid golfer enjoyed playing the game almost every day.

When receiving the Salem Educators Association Teacher of the Year Award, the plaque presented to him from the S.A.E. states his life and accomplishments beautifully and reads as follows: “Berdie is a success who loves life and lives it to the fullest. Who has discovered and shared the strengths and talents that are uniquely his own; who puts his best into each task, and leaves each situation better than he found it. Who seeks and finds that which is beautiful, In all people and all things whose heart is full of love. And warm with compassion who has found joy in living, and peace within himself.”

   Berdie leaves his wife Joan M. (Messier) LaFlamme, the love of his life for 67 years; eight children, Philip A. LaFlamme Sr. of Durham, ME, Richard Albert LaFlamme (September 14, 1949-August 17, 1956), Paul and Dorothy LaFlamme Sr. of Hollis, NH, Patricia and Bruce Rankins of Gilford, NH and Clearwater, FL, Peter A. LaFlamme Sr. of Nashua, Celeste and Dr. Robert Sticca of Fargo, ND, Joan and Douglas Finn of Hudson, and Jeffrey and Natalie LaFlamme of Nashua; seventeen grandchildren, Philip A. LaFlamme Jr. and Family, Attorney Tricia LaFlamme Albert and Family, Amanda and Patrick LaFlamme, Paul G. LaFlamme Jr. and Family, Brendan LaFlamme and Family, Dr. Kevin Rankins and Family, Timothy and Kristen Rankins, Hillary Rankins, Peter A. Jr. and Catherine LaFlamme, Justin LaFlamme, Jenna-Rose LaFlamme, Jonathan and Katie Sticca, Matthew Lopez, Rebecca and Janelle LaFlamme; also fourteen great-grandchildren; a sister-in-law, Thelma (Costaras) LaFlamme; and many nieces and nephews. Berdie was predeceased by his brothers, Philip A. LaFlamme and George N. LaFlamme and his wife Esta.

   Calling hours will be held at the FARWELL FUNERAL HOME, 18 Lock Street, Nashua on Monday from 3 to 8 p.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated in St. John XXIII Parish at Infant Jesus Church, 121 Allds Street, Nashua, Tuesday morning at 11 a.m. Interment will follow in St. Louis Cemetery. Relatives and friends are invited to gather at the church. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Home Health & Hospice Care, 7 Executive Park Drive, Merrimack, NH 03054 or the American Macular Degeneration Foundation. Arrangements are in the care of the FARWELL FUNERAL SERVICE. (603) 882-0591. www.farwellfuneral.com

Janice Lucille Turmel, 82, of Hudson, wife of Robert L. Turmel, passed away at her home, Tuesday morning, February 24, 2015 after a period of declining health.

    Born in Hudson on March 4, 1932, she was a daughter of the late Julian and Anna (Krugla) Cherkes. Mrs. Turmel was educated in Nashua schools and was a graduate of Nashua High School Class of 1949.

     Janice began her career in the office at Nashua Corporation and then was employed by the State of New Hampshire for many years. She worked as a clerk / typist and clerk stenographer in the unemployment office and later the department of welfare.

    Her many interests include playing bingo, cards, game-boards, making puzzles and watching classic movies. She also loved the seacoast, spending summers at Salisbury, Hampton and York beaches. Janice enjoyed watching her son Jim’s Bavarian Band perform and listening to the music of Neil Diamond. Mrs. Turmel enjoyed traditional Polish foods.

      Janice was a communicant of St. Kathryn Church in Hudson and held membership in the American Legion Post 48 Auxiliary of Hudson. She was a member of the Hudson Seniors and enjoyed trips to Foxwoods.

     In addition to her parents, Janice was predeceased by a son, Mark R. Turmel in 2003; three sisters, Stacia Marcucci, Anna Vassar and Ann Blanchette; and two brothers, Eugene Cherkes and Julian Cherkes.

     Members of her family include her husband of 57 years “Bob” Turmel, whom she married on April 27, 1957; two sons, Michael P. Turmel and his fiancée Wanda Wheeler of Manchester and James C. Turmel and his fiancée Angela Castle of Hudson; a daughter, Sheryl A. Turmel of Hudson; a granddaughter, Ashley Felch; two grandsons, Jared and Jason Turmel; a sister, Lillian P. Cherkes of Hudson; several nieces and nephews; and a cousin, Ginger Pietuch of Nashua.

     The family wishes to express their sincerest gratitude to the nurses and staff of Home Health & Hospice Care for the compassionate care of Janice.

     SERVICES: There are no calling hours. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated in St. Kathryn Church, 4 Dracut Road in Hudson, Saturday morning at 10 a.m. Everyone is asked to gather at the church. Interment will be place at St. Stanislaus Cemetery at a later date. The family has requested that in lieu of flowers, donations may be 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. (603) 882-0591. www.farwellfuneral.com

Janet Claire Christie 63, loving daughter, sister, aunt and friend, was taken from us suddenly on Sunday February 22, 2015. She was born in Nashua on July 28, 1951 a daughter of the late David P. and Jeannette A. (Robertson) Christie. Janet graduated from Nashua High School, class of 1969, and Houle’s Academy of Beauty. For the past twenty one years, Janet was employed as a medical administrative assistant for the St. Joseph Family Medical Group in Hudson.

Janet was devoted to her family and cherished her friends. She enjoyed working with The Actor Singers for many years, as well as ushering for The Peterborough Players. Janet loved to travel and could always be counted on to ride shotgun on family “Road Trips.”

Janet is survived by two sisters, Jeanne Mithen of Topeka, KS, and JoAnn Grygorcewicz of Nashua, NH,  two brothers, John Christie and his wife Debbie of Goffstown, NH, and Jay Christie of Peoria, AZ, two nieces Karen Tlili and her husband Hamdi of Waltham, MA, and Vicki Grygorcewicz of Nashua, NH, two nephews Brian Mithen of Topeka, KS, and Edward Grygorcewicz and his wife Nicki of Gibsonton, FL, and three grand nephews, Max and Sam Grygorcewicz, and Haitham Tlili .

   Calling hours will be held at the FARWELL FUNERAL HOME, 18 Lock Street, Nashua on Thursday evening from 5 to 8 p.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated in St. Patrick Church, 29 Spring Street, Nashua, Friday morning at 9:30 a.m. Interment will take place at St. Patrick Cemetery in Hudson. Friends are invited to attend and will gather at the church. Donations may be made in her memory to the Actor Singers Scholarship Fund, 219 Lake Street, Nashua, NH 03060.  Arrangements are in the care of the FARWELL FUNERAL SERVICE. (603) 882-0591. www.farwellfuneral.com

  Martin Landry, 58, of Hooksett, NH, husband of Francine (Beaulieu) Landry, passed at his home, Thursday morning, February 19, 2015 in the company of his loved ones.

     Born in Canada on August 12, 1956, Martin was a son of Adrien and Noella (Caron) Landry. He immigrated to the United States at the age of 13 and resided in Hudson for many years. Educated in local schools, Martin worked in the construction industry and had been employed with Red Star.

    An active outdoorsman, Martin enjoyed riding his Harley Davidson motorcycle, woodworking, gardening, bonfires and loved animals. Always a family man, Martin enjoyed time with family and friends and going to reunions. 

     Members of his family include his wife Francine “Fran” Landry of Hooksett; two step-daughters, Lisa Picard and Christie Tourlitis and her husband Basil; three grandchildren, Shaniya and Carver Picard and Maria Tourlitis; a great-granddaughter, Jaiden; his twelve siblings and their spouses, Monique and Gaston Levesque, Roselyne Landry, Reginald Landry, Leo Paul and Dorothy Landry, Denise and Andre Marquis, Jacqueline and Guy Chamberland, Joscelyn and Louiselle Landry, Jocelyne and Gerard Drouin, Jean Guy and Jeannette Landry, Bruno and Colette Landry, Daniel and Jeanne Landry and Yvan and Patty Landry; two brothers-in-law, John Beaulieu and Mike Beaulieu and his wife Cherylann;

also many nieces, nephews and cousins.

      Calling hours will be held at the FARWELL FUNERAL HOME, 18 Lock Street, Nashua on Wednesday, February 25^th from 5 to 7 p.m. followed by a Prayer service in the funeral home at 7 o’clock. Interment will take place at a later date. Donations may be made in his memory to Southern New Hampshire Medical Center, Oncology Department, 8 Prospect Street, Nashua, NH 03060. Arrangements are in the care of the FARWELL FUNERAL SERVICE. (603) 882-0591. www.farwellfuneral.com 

Claire Ann Martin, 82, of Nashua, beloved wife of Bernard “Ben” Martin, passed away on Monday afternoon, February 9, 2015 at the Wingate at Belvidere in Lowell, MA surrounded by her best ones.

   A resident of Nashua since August of 1965, Mrs. Martin was born in North Smithfield, Rhode Island on January 7, 1933, a daughter of the late Theodore and Dorea (Plante) Tardie. Claire was a graduate of St. Clare High School in Woonsocket, RI Class of 1950 and furthered her education at Cambridge City Hospital School of Nursing, graduating as a Registered Nurse in 1953. She later attended New England College where she earned a Bachelor’s degree in psychology in 1981 and her Master’s degree in education in 1984.

      Claire worked for many years as a Certified Occupational Health Nurse. She was employed at Kollsman Instruments, Digital Equipment Corporation, US Postal Service, St. Joseph Hospital, Easter Seals and Hadco. 

     Mrs. Martin was an active member of the American Association of Occupational Health Nurses. She served as the recording Secretary of the Northeast Region and Board Member of the New Hampshire Chapter. She tremendously enjoyed public speaking and not only a member of Toastmasters but was a Past President and served on the Executive Board from 1984-1991. She was a member of the Rivier Institute for Senior Education (RISE); and a former member of the Board of Directors of the Girls Club of Greater Nashua. She also was a member of the Red Hat Society. Mrs. Martin was a communicant of St. Christopher Church. In her leisure time, she enjoyed reading, sewing, gardening, traveling, and spending time with her family.

     Members of her family include her husband Ben, whom she married in Woonsocket, RI on April 24, 1954 and shared 60 wonderful years together; six children, Beverly Martin of Jaffrey, Robert Martin of Shirley, MA, Joanne Balduf and her husband Carl of Plainville, MA, John Martin of Melbourne, Australia, Kathleen “Katie” Martin of Nashua and Kristen Dors and her husband Eric of Los

Almos, NM; five grandchildren, Eric and Olivia Balduf, Tim Martin, Kevin and Brian Dors; three brothers, Joseph, Theodore and Robert Tardie all of California; many nieces and nephews. In addition to her parents, Claire was predeceased by a sister, Violet Bradley and a brother, Gerard Tardie.

     Calling hours will be held at the FARWELL FUNERAL HOME, 18 Lock Street, Nashua on Monday February 16^th from 4 to 7 p.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated in St. Christopher Church, 62 Manchester Street, Nashua on Tuesday morning at 10 a.m. Friends are invited to attend and will gather at the church. Interment will take place at the New Hampshire State Veterans Cemetery in Boscawen. In lieu of flowers please consider donating in her memory to the Ann Romney Center for Neurological Diseases, Brigham & Women’s Hospital. https://giving.brighamandwomens.org/bwhannromneycenter4. Arrangements are in the care of the FARWELL FUNERAL SERVICE. (603) 882-0591. www.farwellfuneral.com

Lee Sword, 56, suffered a massive heart attack and passed away at his residence in Hollis, NH, on Wednesday, February 4^th.

Lee was the husband and lifetime soulmate of Kimberly, married 35 years. He was the loving father of three children, William, Andrea, and Kelly. All lived with him in their home in Hollis. Lee is also survived by his older brother, Bruce, of Merryville, LA. 

Although taken too soon, Lee lived a full and successful life in the time he was here. Through his years he touched an immeasurable number of people and always enriched the lives of those he met.

Lee grew up in Tucson, AZ, and attended Sahuaro High School. Lee became an Eagle Scout in 1975, and graduated in 1976. After high school, Lee joined the Army in the 3^rd US Infantry Regiment “The Old Guard,” serving as a presidential escort in the Fife and Drum Corp.

He met his wife Kim in Leesburg, VA, in 1978 and they married a year later.

After over eight years in the Army, Lee left to attend The University of Arizona, and graduated with his Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering.

His began his career at Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Pasadena, CA. In 1998 he and his family moved to Massachusetts, where he worked at iRobot Corporation as a program manager, and Chief Principal Scientist. His final occupation was at Autoliv, in Lowell, MA, as a narrow band platform manager. Lee holds several patents from projects he worked on.

Lee was a dedicated worker, and a devoted family man. Vacations were spent with his loved ones in Ogunquit, ME. In his free time he enjoyed working on his property, playing games with the family, and always knew how to have a good time.

Memorial visitation will be held on Sunday, February 15^th, from 11:00am-2:00pm, at the FARWELL FUNERAL HOME, 18 Lock Street in Nashua, NH. Family and friends are welcome to attend. Donations may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project, PO Box 758517, Topeka, KS 66675 or support.woundedwarriorproject.org   Arrangements are in the care of the FARWELL FUNERAL SERVICE. (603) 882-0591 www.farwellfuneral.com

Lorette M. McAfee, 87, of Nashua, widow of Kenneth E. McAfee, passed away at her home early Wednesday morning, February 4, 2015 after a brief illness.

    A lifelong resident of this city, Lorette was born on August 10, 1927, a daughter of the late Napoleon and Albina (Levesque) Pelletier. Mrs. McAfee attended the former St. Louis de Gonzague Parochial School and graduated from the former St. Louis High School for Girls with the Class of 1945.

    Lorette and her husband Ken were married in Nashua on June 17, 1950 and raised three children. In 1963, Mrs. McAfee began working for the Nashua School Department as a secretary and administrative assistant at the former Spring Street Junior High School and continued at the Elm Street Junior High School until she retired in 1991.

     Mrs. McAfee enjoyed golfing, playing cribbage and was a former member of the Nashua Country Club. She loved taking care of her grandchildren and enjoyed many winters in Florida.

     In addition to her parents, Lorette was predeceased by her husband of 48 years, Kenneth E. McAfee who died October 13, 1998.

      Members of her family include a daughter and son-in-law, Karen A. and Gary G. Goulet of Nashua; two sons and daughters-in-law, Scott B. and Valerie McAfee and Kevin P. and Nancy McAfee all of Nashua; eight grandchildren, Megan Thompson and her husband Bret, Kate Aquino and her husband Michael, Kelli McAfee and her husband Jeremy Heusner, Jennifer Mock and her husband Dillon, and Ian, Tyler, Adam and Elizabeth McAfee; three great-grandchildren, Paige Aquino, Knox and Mac Thompson; two sisters, Jeanne Daigle of Nashua and Sister Marie Christilla of the Order of Presentation of Mary of Manchester; a brother and sister-in-law, Donald and Beverly Pelletier of Littleton; also many nieces, nephews and cousins.

       SERVICES: There are no calling hours. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated in the Parish of the Resurrection, 449 Broad Street, Nashua, Tuesday February 10^th at 11 a.m. Family and friends are invited to attend. Interment will take place in Edgewood Cemetery at a later date. Donations may be made in her memory to the 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. (603) 882-0591. www.farwellfuneral.com