DOE CHAGNON

April 20, 2016
Chagnon, Doe

From the moment Emile Chagnon saw her standing demurely in line at Hayward’s Ice Cream stand in 1947, Dora Louise Auger was the love of his life. “Doe” had come from Worcester, Massachusetts to study journalism at Rivier College, and Emile, a Nashua native, pursued her hopefully for the next 4 years. After college, Doe returned to Worcester to work as a reporter for the Worcester Telegram & Gazette, a job she adored, Doe married Emile in 1951 and returned with him to Nashua to make a life there. They would spend the next 65 years on a grand adventure together.

Doe was blessed with a flair for the theatrical, a gift for writing and speaking, a lovely singing voice, and a wide social circle. She loved to cook, entertain, design and decorate. She and “Chag” had the good fortune to travel widely, beginning with his two year assignment to London for the US Air Force during the Korean War. Trips around the world together would accent the next fifty years.

In Nashua, Doe would become Mrs. New Hampshire in 1955. She directed plays for the St. Francis Xavier CYO in the sixties, molding a troupe of teenaged actors into three time winners of the New England Championship for one-act plays.

In 1970, she co-founded The Nashua Theater Guild, acting and directing with an obvious love and talent for her art. In 1972, Doe joined the family business, creating a successful kitchen design center at the Chagnon Lumber Company and eventually became president of  the New England Chapter of the American Institute of Kitchen Dealers.

But her passion for her own pursuits paled in comparison to the joy that Doe found in being a wife, mother, grandmother and great grandmother. As her children grew, Doe gave them her greatest gift; a safe, happy childhood in a loving, stable and creative home. She equipped them with the education and the confidence to embrace life with vigor and compassion. For this, we, her children, will love her, will cherish her memory and will be eternally grateful.

Mom’s beautiful face, her laughter and her indomitable spirit live on through those who were privileged to know and love her.

Her family is planning a private celebration of her life.

10 Comments on DOE CHAGNON

sue angevine said : Guest Report Oct 08, 2016 at 1:25 PM

On behalf of the Umpa family, condolences to the Chagnon family.

Brad and Pat Whitney said : Guest Report May 01, 2016 at 3:33 PM

Chag and family, we all share the loss of Doe, Msny, many years of wonderful memories to sooth the sorrow. She was a champion in everything she was involved all her life. All of the Chagnon family were blessed with her caring, love, and influence.

Holly Warden said : Guest Report Apr 29, 2016 at 10:44 AM

Giselle- so sorry to hear about your mom. Thinking of you and your family.

Joann Breault said : Guest Report Apr 26, 2016 at 8:03 PM

From the time I was Brit's classmate at St. Francis, I thought Mrs. Chagnon was beautiful inside and out. She was the epitome of grace and class. My deepest condolences to the family.

Jo Ann McCarthy said : Guest Report Apr 26, 2016 at 6:32 PM

To the Chagnon family, my prayers are with you as you grieve the loss of such a wonderful person. Growing up down the street, I always thought Mrs Chagnon, was one of the most beautiful and kindest person I have ever met, always smiling! Jo Ann(Clancy)McCarthy

Donna Buscarini said : Guest Report Apr 26, 2016 at 2:46 PM

Giselle you are very much like your mother. Your smile reaches all. What an adventure she had. Hoping for some peace for you and your family. Donna

John Renaud Sr said : Guest Report Apr 26, 2016 at 11:29 AM

Brit, sorry to hear of the passing of your mom. She will always be in your thoughts and forever in your heart. Take care

Drinelle Michaud said : Guest Report Apr 26, 2016 at 8:36 AM

Emile: Yes, I have such wonderful memories of you both while all the good times we had while members of the Richelieu club in Nashua. Doe is in Heaven, resting at peace. My sincere sympathy is with you and all of your family.

Arlene Crowley-Chagnon said : Guest Report Apr 25, 2016 at 8:39 PM

Dear Chag,Mickie,Brit,Alli and Gigi,I am so sorry for your major loss of such a wonderful ,talented, spouse and mother. I remember her telling me how much she loved all of you. Take care of each other.

Elli said : Guest Report Apr 25, 2016 at 8:16 PM

Giselle I am so sorry. You are as beautiful as your mom. What a lovely lady. Rest and get healthy.

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