LACONIA – New Hampshire USA Obituaries

Gilford—–Robert Henry Castellon, also known as Bob Wilson, “The Voice of the Bruins”, 85, of Gilford, NH passed away on January 15, 2015 after a courageous battle with lung cancer. Bob was born March 9, 1929 in Stoneham, MA, the son of Henry Elwyn and Louise (Wilson) Castellon. He grew up in Arlington, MA, attending the Arlington School system, graduating from Arlington High School in 1946. He enlisted in the U.S. Air Force, serving three years, stationed at Williams Air Force Base in Chandler, AZ. He served as an airplane instrument mechanic and was honorably discharged in June 1949. He married the love of his life, Nancy E. Sargent on Thanksgiving Day in 1950, in Arlington, MA. They enjoyed 64 years of marriage. Bob attended Boston University, transferring to Leland Powers School of Radio, Television and Theatre in Boston and graduated in June 1952 as Vice-President of his class. As the top candidate in his class, Bob was offered a job in Crowley, Louisiana in 1952. This served as the beginning of his long and illustrious career in broadcasting. He was a staff announcer for KSIG and KLFY in Lafayette LA, in addition to broadcasting minor league baseball, Golden Glove boxing, high school football and basketball. Bob continued his career in Baton Rouge as a rock and roll disc jockey. Returning to the Boston area in 1957, Bob was a Top 40 DJ at WCOP. Needing to have a two-syllable name to fit the stations’ jingles, Bob assumed his mother’s maiden name of Wilson and became Bob Wilson. In 1962, Bob moved to WHDH in Boston and his 30-year association with the Boston Bruins began in 1964. Except for two years spent in St. Louis as the KMOX television sports director, Bob was the “Voice of the Bruins” from 1967 until his retirement in 1995. Bob’s distinctive booming voice, descriptive powers and knowledge of hockey painted a vivid picture of the game for his listeners. Bob prided himself on calling a game with fairness, not necessarily objectivity. He never missed a game in his career, which including exhibitions, preseason and playoffs means some 3,000 games. A legendary icon in the business, Bob was the consummate professional, mentor, teacher and role model for generations of hockey enthusiasts. For several years, Bob provided the play-by-play for the Beanpot tournaments in Boston. A savvy business man, Bob started Bob Wilson Productions and was the spokesman for South Boston Savings Bank for 21 years, and did various commercials, voice-overs, industrials and served on the local board of American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (AFTRA). Wilson was founder and first president of the NHL Broadcaster’s Association and voted the “Best Radio Sports Play By Play” twice by Boston Magazine. Earning the highest honors in his field, Wilson was elected to the Hockey Hall of Fame in Toronto with the Foster Hewitt Award, the Massachusetts Broadcaster’s Hall of Fame and the Massachusetts Hockey Hall of Fame. One of Bob’s proudest moments was the naming of the radio broadcast booth, “The Bob Wilson Radio Booth” in his honor at the TD Garden in Boston in 2011. Bob was a wonderful husband and father and loved his family dearly. His main goal in life was to provide them with the best and happiest life that he was capable of, and often worked several extra jobs to accomplish this. By keeping the family name of Castellon for his family, he provided his children with the privacy that enabled them to lead a normal, happy life growing up in Belmont, MA. He was very proud of all of his three children, seven grandchildren, nine great-grandchildren and one great-great granddaughter. Bob’s hobbies included 15 years in the Senior Bowling League, golfing, boating on Lake Winnipesaukee, as well as creating and maintaining beautiful gardens and landscapes. Bob and Nancy’s gardens were a featured stop on local garden tours. Bob enjoyed following all sports on both radio and television. He is survived by his wife, Nancy E. (Sargent) Castellon, of Gilford, his children, Linda Tucker and her husband Leo of Montour Falls, NY, his son William Castellon and his wife Nancy of Kittery, ME, his daughter Patti Hines of Laconia, NH; his grandchildren Jennifer Cilley, Timothy Tucker, Michael Castellon, Rebecca Castellon, Robert T. Castellon, Susanna Hines Mack and Betsey Hines Wilder; his great grandchildren, Kyle Ellsworth, Michael, Dawson and Sierra Verdegaal, Brianna and Kevin Hoessli-Tucker and Ellie Tucker, Rozalyn Mack and Derek Wilder; his great-great granddaughter, Aubrey Ellsworth. Bob was pre-deceased by his parents and his sister, Margaret and her husband, George Dalrymple. One sister, Brenda Cox of Arlington, MA, and many nieces and nephews survive him. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the Boston Bruins Foundation (100 Legends Way, Boston, MA 02114) or the Bob Wilson Memorial Scholarship for Communications c/o Lakes Region Scholarship Foundation, PO Box 7312, Gilford, NH 03247-7312. A celebration of Bob’s life will be held at Gilford Community Church, 19 Potter Hill Road, Gilford, NH at 11:00 AM on Saturday, January 24, 2015. A reception will follow the service. A spring burial is planned in the Wixson Memorial Garden, Gilford NH. Wilkinson-Beane-Simoneau-Paquette Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 164 Pleasant Street, Laconia, NH is assisting the family with the arrangements. For more information and to view an online memorial go to www.wilkinsonbeane.com.

View Full Notice → Robert H. Castellon 1/15/2015

Belmont – Marguerite “Peggy” O’Neil White of Belmont, New Hampshire died on Thursday December 25th, 2014 after a brief illness. Peggy was born in Manchester, NH on September 21, 1943. She was the daughter of Beatrice (Brown) and Maurice O’Neil. She spent her entire childhood growing up in Manchester. She attended Manchester schools and trade school. In 1964, she married Stephen White and they moved to California and started a family. Nothing made Peggy happier than being a mom and then a grandmother. After starting a family in California, she moved with her family to Manchester, Hooksett and Gilmanton NH before she finally settled her later years in Belmont. She enjoyed a variety of careers throughout her years. She owned her own business out of her home in Gilmanton called “Country House Plastics” for many years. She worked at National Power Products in Belmont and then she worked as a cashier at Gus’ Country Store (now known as D&D) in Belmont. She enjoyed serving the public and many regulars knew her by name at the store. Throughout Peggy’s life, she enjoyed spending all her time with her children and grandchildren. Many days were spent visiting Rye Beach, York Beach Lighthouse, Kennebunkport, Maine, camping throughout Maine and NH and boating on Lake Winnipesaukee. Family and closest friends knew her as “Mae,” the woman that could always keep people laughing and feed them well. She would make her favorite dishes and have over friends and family all the time. You never left Peggy’s house hungry. She would love to make hearty dishes and give them to people in the community that needed a meal. Peggy loved to tell stories and feed everyone she knew. Peggy is survived by her daughter Colleen Benavides and her husband Gus of Gilford, her son, Steve White and his wife Jennifer, of Gilmanton. She is also survived by her most loved 5 grandchildren: Saige Benavides of Boston MA, Malcolm Benavides of Boston MA, Noelle Benavides of Gilford NH, Carly White of Gilmanton NH and Cameron White of Gilmanton NH. She is survived by her sister Arlene Field of Manchester NH, her brothers Jim O’Neil of Belmont NH and Bill O’Neil and his wife Teri of Manchester NH and many nieces and nephews as well as her faithful dog Maggie. She was predeceased by her sister Mildred O’Neil, brothers Maurice “Sparky” O’Neil and Richard O’Neil and her ex-husband Steve White. We would like to extend our appreciation to the Nurses, LNA’s and Aides that assisted Peggy at Lakes Region General Hospital during her time there as well as Central NH Visiting Nurses Association and Hospice out of Laconia. Their kindheartedness, dedication and compassion during Peggy’s final days were absolutely secondary to none and extremely impressive. To our extended family members and warmhearted friends, we are grateful for your support and love during the past two months. To follow Peggy’s wishes, there will be no calling hours. Peggy’s life long wish was to be remembered by her loving laugh and ability to cook a great meal, so Peggy will be honored at a family luncheon on February 7th at 1PM at the home of her daughter and son-in-law Colleen and Gus Benavides at 35 Larch Drive in Gilford NH. In lieu of flowers, please support our local community in Peggy’s memory by making donations to St. Vincent de Paul’s Food Pantry PO Box 6123 Lakeport, NH 03247 as well as Central NH Visiting Nurses Association and Hospice 780 North Main Street, Laconia, NH 03246. Wilkinson-Beane-Simoneau-Paquette Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 164 Pleasant Street, Laconia NH is in charge of the arrangements.

View Full Notice → Marguerite White 12/25/2014

FRANKLIN – Katherine E. Seavey passed peacefully at Mountain Ridge Nursing Home in Franklin, NH on January 21st 2015 at the age of 101. She was born on November 18, 1913 in Brentwood, NH, the daughter of Edgar and Isabelle (Montgomery) Knight. A long time resident of the town of New Hampton, Katherine spent many years serving as assistant town clerk. She and her husband also owned and ran the village store for many years until they closed it in 1949. One has to marvel at the changes in history she saw in her lifetime, the great depression, several wars, the invention of automobiles, the civil rights movement, technology and many presidents to name a few. Katherine loved to bake and stay busy. It was nothing to drive by the farmhouse and see her out with her chainsaw cutting down a tree, mowing the lawn on her riding mower with bricks on the seat to keep it running because she didn’t weigh enough, or see her up on the roof doing repairs and this is when she was in her 70’s and 80’s. There was no way you were going to tell her she couldn’t do something. She was an amazing, strong, self sufficient woman who never complained. If you asked Katherine how she was doing, her favorite response was “ornery as ever”, but she didn’t fool anyone, everyone knew she had a kind heart. She is survived by her two loving daughters, Elizabeth Dupont and Terry Wingate, seven grandchildren, ten great grandchildren and three great-great grandchildren. She was pre-deceased by the love of her life and husband Arthur, whom she missed very much. She was also pre deceased by her two brothers, Robert Knight, George Liam Knight and sister’s Edith and Louise Knight. Katherine has gone to be with Arthur, and will be that angel smiling down on all of us from above. She will be missed very much. There will be no calling hours. Services will be held at 11AM on Saturday, February 7, 2015 at the New Hampton Community Church, 14 Church Lane, New Hampton. A private burial will be held at the Village Cemetery in New Hampton in the spring. Wilkinson-Beane-Simoneau-Paquette Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 164 Pleasant Street, Laconia, N.H. is assisting the family with the arrangements.

View Full Notice → Katherine Seavey 1/21/2015

PORTLAND, MAINE—-Ashley Elizabeth Thomas, 29, of Portland, Maine, formerly of Gilford, perished in a fire, with her dog, Daisy, in Portland, Maine on Saturday, November 1, 2014. Ashley was born June 28, 1985 in Worcester, Mass., the daughter of Nikki (Cabral) and Louis Thomas, Jr. Ashley graduated from Gilford High School in 2003 and Hallmark Institute of Photography in 2008. She was a self-employed photographer with her business partner and best friend, Mat Garber. Ashley will always be remembered for her infectious smile and laugh and love for life. In addition to her parents of Gilford, Ashley is survived by her brother, Louis Thomas III, all of Gilford, N.H.; her paternal grandmother, Carol (Kirby) Thomas, of Shrewsbury, Mass; her aunts and uncles, Karen (Thomas ) Moss and her husband, Todd, Kathy (Thomas) Perduta and her husband, Peter, Jeanne Cabral Guptill, Marjorie (Cabral) Bird and her husband, Michael, Linda Cabral Giguere and her husband, Richard; her business partner and best friend, Mat Garber; several cousins and several friends. Ashley was predeceased by her maternal grandparents, Nick and Babe Cabral, her paternal grandfather, Louis Thomas; her paternal great grandmother, Lillian Kirby; her aunts, Nancy Thomas, Deborah O’Brien and Joyce O’Dougherty and uncle, Norman “Butch” Cabral, Sr. Calling hours will be held on Sunday, November 9, 2014 from 2PM to 5PM at the Wilkinson-Beane-Simoneau-Paquette Funeral Home, 164 Pleasant Street, Laconia, using the Carriage House entrance. A Funeral Service will be held Monday, November 10, 2014 at 11AM at the funeral home. Burial will be private. For those who wish, the family suggests that memorial donations be made to the Ashley Thomas Fund, to help the family with final expenses and Mat Garber with business costs, at www.gofundme.com/glegyg. Wilkinson-Beane-Simoneau-Paquette Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 164 Pleasant Street, Laconia, N.H. is assisting the family with the arrangements.

View Full Notice → Ashley Thomas 11/1/2014

John E Shastany 82 of Natick, formerly of Milford NH and Florida, died Tuesday January 27, 2015 at the Tufts Medical Center in Boston. He was the beloved husband of the late Beatrice A (Hart) Shastany who died in 2002. A Natick resident for over 35 years, he was born in Laconia New Hampshire the son of the late Edward and Marie (Gauthier) Shastany. Mr. Shastany was a Salesman in the Building Supplies Industry for many years. John enjoyed being with people and was known for his outgoing, gregarious personality and sharp wit. He liked to sing, listen to a variety of music and was an avid Patriots fan. Most important was the devotion and love for his late wife Beatrice, his children and the special bond he had with his grandchildren. Mr. Shastany was a Veteran of the United States Navy during the Korean War. He is survived by four children, Paul Shastany and his wife Ann Marie of Ashland , Gail Dahlstrom and her husband Harry of Holliston, Deborah Taddeo and her husband Paul of Bellingham, Ken Shastany and his wife Claire of Holliston, two sisters Stella Mulledy of Framingham, Teresa Hopkins of Santa Cruz CA, Henry Shastany of La Quinta, CA, his sister in law Elaine Shastany of MI, 11 grandchildren, Amanda Rockwell and her husband Gregg, Lauren and Heather Shastany, Jamie Dahlstrom and his wife Tara, Lindsay and Christian Dahlstrom, Victoria and Paul Taddeo, Mark, Brooke and Jill Shastany, 4 great grandchildren, Addison and Olivia Jean Rockwell, Tillie and Lincoln Dahlstrom, and many nieces and nephews. He was also the brother of the late Philip Shastany and Paul Shastany. Relatives and friends are invited to attend his Funeral Mass on Saturday January 31 at 9:00 A.M. in St Linus Church 119 Hartford Street Natick. Visiting hours on Friday from 4:00 to 8:00 P.M. in the John Everett and Sons Funeral Home 4 Park Street, at Natick Common. Burial will be private. The Shastany family would like to thank all the caregivers in the ICU at Leonard Morse Hospital in Natick and Proger 5 North and Neely Neurosciences staff of the Tufts Medical Center for their compassionate care.

View Full Notice → John E. Shastany 1/27/2015 Natick, MA / Miflord, NH / Laconia, NH / Holliston, MA / Ashland, MA / Bellingham, MA / Framingham,

Meredith—–Margaret Aerona Noury, 89, of Meredith Bay Village, Meredith, New Hampshire, died at her home on Thursday, January 29, 2015. Surrounded by her loved ones and family. Mrs. Noury was born on August 8th, 1925 in Wales, England, the second daughter of Arthur and Margaret (Williams) Davies. Once she arrived in the United States as a World War II bride in 1947, Margaret remained a lifelong resident of New Hampshire. After residing in Manchester NH for the first few years of her marriage, Margaret first lived in Suncook, then ultimately moved to the Lakes Region where the family purchased and settled into the Greystone Lodge and Motel along the shores of Lake Winnipesaukee in Glendale. Margaret and her husband Frank, took great pride in running the Greystone property while raising their son and 11 daughters. Among her many accomplishments, Margaret was blessed with a beautiful voice and sang for weddings and funerals at Sacred Heart, St. John, and Our Lady of the Lakes churches, became an active member of the Streetcar Theater group, was the featured singer during the early years of WMUR TV’s Ted Herbert Big Band Program, became a Senior Life Master in bridge and won the Senior Mrs. NH competition in 1992, Impressing the judges with her piano and singing talent. Margaret and her lovely Welsh accent will be sorely missed by all who knew her. Survivors include her oldest daughter, Allana Noury of Molokai, Hawaii, Linda Schmid and her husband, Edward of North Sandwich, New Hampshire, David Noury of Gardenville, Nevada, Lorraine Provost of Manasquan, New Jersey, Donna Hayes of Charlottesville, Virginia, Denise Wingate and her husband, Andy of Flowery Branch, Georgia, Anita Fuchs and her husband, Steven of Meredith, New Hampshire, Annette Mackail and her husband, Curt of Exeter New Hampshire, Jane DiFruscio, and her husband, Frank of Jackson, New Hampshire, Betty Ann Salchli and her husband, Peter of Moultonborough, New Hampshire, Mary Elliard and her husband, Ron of Meredith, New Hampshire, 28 grand-children and 25 great-grand-children. In addition to her two sisters and parents, Margaret was pre-deceased by her husband, Francis, daughter, Leesa Noury, and grandsons, Aaron Francoeur and Daniel Allard. Per Margaret’s request, there will be no calling hours. A private celebration of Margaret’s life will be held at a later date. Wilkinson-Beane-Simoneau-Paquette Funeral Home, 164 Pleasant Street, Laconia NH is assisting the family with all arrangements. For more information and to view an online memorial go to www.wilkinsonbeane.com.

View Full Notice → Margaret A. Noury 1/29/2015

BELMONT – Mark A. Gonyer, 52, of 47 Union Road, died Thursday, January 29, 2015 at Lakes Region General Hospital. He was born on December 27, 1962 in Laconia, the son of Roger and Dorothy (Gilbert) Gonyer. Mark served in the US Army National Guard for 20 years, participating in Operation Iraqi Freedom in 2004. Most recently, he worked as a truck driver and instructor for the NH Department of Transportation. He was known as a proud American who loved the American flag. He was a member of the VFW Post 1670 in Laconia. In addition to his mother of Laconia, He is survived by his life partner, Cindy Parrington of Belmont, two step daughters; Kelly Parrington of Belmont and Laura Kelley of Gilmanton, two brothers; Stephen Gonyer and his wife Denise of Gilford and Alfred Gonyer and his wife Youngran of Germany, two sisters; Ricarda “Ricci” Dutile and her husband Michael of Laconia and Sharon Eaton of Laconia, one grandchild, Maria, several nieces, nephews, brothers and sisters in law and extended family. In addition to his father, he was predeceased by one brother, Cliff Moore. There will be no calling hours. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10AM on Tuesday, February 3, 2015 at St. Andre Bessette Parish – St. Joseph’s Church, 30 Church Street, Laconia. Burial will follow at Sacred Heart Cemetery in Laconia. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Dutile Oil Company, 242 Messer Street, Laconia, NH 03246, to assist veterans with heating expenses. Wilkinson-Beane-Simoneau-Paquette Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 164 Pleasant Street, Laconia, N.H. is assisting the family with the arrangements.

View Full Notice → Mark Gonyer 1/29/2015

Laconia—–Jean A. Horn, 84, of 406 Court Street, died Thursday, January 29, 2015 at St. Francis Rehabilitation and Nursing Center. She was the widow of Robert T. Horn who died in 1975. Jean was born on October 5, 1930 in Laconia, the daughter of Clifton and Alta (Norton) Annis. She grew up in Lakeport and she and her husband raised their children in the Winnisquam Depot. After her husband died, she moved to Alton with her daughter and son in law, where she helped to manage the Merrymeeting River Mobile Home Park. There she enjoyed spending her time with her grandson and all her friends. She also was employed by Sears Roebuck in Gilford and JC Pennys in Rochester. Jean enjoyed gardening, playing bingo and bowling, traveling around the country for thirty years for national bowling tournaments. Jean is survived by a son, Michael Horn, of Summerland Key, Florida; a daughter Sandra White, and her husband Donald, of Alton; grandchild Eric White and his wife, Korin and two great grandchildren, Lyndi and Jonah. She was predeceased by her parents and husband and a brother James Annis. She was the sister in law of Jerry and Yvonne Horn of Lakeport. She had many nephews and one niece. Calling hours will be Thursday, February 5, 2015 from 5pm to 7pm and a Funeral Service will be held Friday, February 6, 2015 at 11 am at the Wilkinson-Beane-Simoneau-Paquette Funeral Home, 164 Pleasant Street, Laconia, using the Carriage House entrance. Burial will follow in Sacred Heart Cemetery. For those who wish, the family suggests that memorial donations be made to St. Francis Rehabilitation and Nursing Center Activities Fund, 406 Court Street Laconia NH 03246. Wilkinson-Beane-Simoneau-Paquette Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 164 Pleasant Street, Laconia, NH is assisting the family with the arrangements. For more information and to view an online memorial go to www.wilkinsonbeane.com.

View Full Notice → Jean A. Horn 1/29/2015 Laconia, NH

SOMERSET, MASS – M. Shirley Makepeace, long-time resident of Somerset, MA, age 92, passed away on January 30, 2015 in the Belmont, NH residence of her daughter, Lynn Makepeace & son-in-law, Bill Chase. Born in New Bedford, MA on May 20, 1922, she was the daughter of the late Anthony and Rose (Antone) Pomber. She graduated from Taunton High School in 1939 and married the late Edwin A. Makepeace, Sr. on September 16, 1943 in Niagara Falls, NY. Together they raised 3 children. The well-being of her family was always her first priority. A successful business woman in the early 1970’s, she became a Branch Manager and Assistant Treasurer of the Fall River Five Cent Savings Bank at a time when women seldom rose to such positions. She served as treasurer of the Greater Fall River Business and Professional Women’s Club, was a member of Savings Bank Women of Massachusetts and the South Coast Opera Club. A United Way volunteer and a Girl Scout leader, she was an avid reader, a news junkie and an adventurous traveler, visiting Russia, Malta, Portugal, Venezuela, Scotland, Ireland and England, among many other foreign and domestic destinations. She loved the outdoors, walking and skiing, going for rides in the country and sitting by the water, especially the coast of Maine. She is survived by her daughter Lynn and son-in-law Bill who were by her side when she passed away; her daughter, Carol J Flores and her husband Carl of Somerset, MA; their children Nicole Flores of Los Angeles, CA and Stephanie Flores of FL; her son, Edwin A Makepeace, Jr. and his wife Paula of Hollis, NH; their children Laura Ulmer and her husband Greg, of St Augustine, FL and Meagan Makepeace of Atlanta, GA; sisters Audrey Hart of Cumming, GA and Millicent Pratt of Jacksonville, NC; brother Lloyd Pomber and his wife Marti Hess of Arundel, ME; 15 nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by Ed, her husband of 43 years; brothers Bill and Dick Pomber, sister Dorothy Sylvia, nephews Donald Pomber, Kevin Pratt and Philip Sylvia. There will be no calling hours. A funeral service will be held on Saturday, February 7, 2015 at 2pm at the Church of Our Savior, 2112 County St, Somerset, MA. Memorial donations may be made in her memory to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital PO Box 1000 Dept 142 Memphis, TN 38148 Wilkinson-Beane-Simoneau-Paquette Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 164 Pleasant Street, Laconia, NH is assisting the family with the arrangements.

View Full Notice → M. Shirley Makepeace 1/30/2015

LACONIA – Allan Carter Hale Jr., 49, of 85 Fenton Ave, died Tuesday, February 3, 2015 in his home after a long courageous battle with cancer. He was born on April 27, 1965 in Laconia, the son of Allan C. Sr. and Sally (Martin) Hale. Allan received his MBA from Plymouth State University and worked as an I.T. Director for Inter-Lakes School District. He was a 2nd Degree Black Belt holder in the art of Uechi-Ryu and was a certified Reiki 1 Practitioner. He loved golf, dogs and hunting. He especially enjoyed salt water and back country fishing in the Florida Keys. In addition to his parents of Center Harbor, he is survived by his wife, Leslie (Gray) Hale of Laconia, his son, Carter Hale of Laconia, his step-son, Benjamin Ames of Hawaii, one step-daughter, Kirsten Fields of Laconia, one brother, Craig Hale and his wife Kim of Center Harbor, one sister, Denise Glennon and her husband Patrick of Longwood, FL, several nieces and nephews. There will be no calling hours. A Celebration of Life will be held at 5PM on Friday, February 6, 2015 at the Wilkinson-Beane-Simoneau-Paquette Funeral Home, 164 Pleasant Street, Laconia. Burial will be private. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Central NH VNA & Hospice, 780 North Main St., Laconia, NH 03246 or at www.centralvna.org. Wilkinson-Beane-Simoneau-Paquette Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 164 Pleasant Street, Laconia, N.H. is assisting the family with the arrangements.

View Full Notice → Allan Hale Jr. 2/3/2015 Laconia, NH

LACONIA – Priscilla Florence LeClaire, 75, of 52 Estates Circle, died Wednesday, February 4, 2015 at Belknap County Nursing Home after a period of failing health. She was born on April 30, 1939 in Plymouth, the daughter of the late Stephen and Alexina (Dion) Gray. Priscilla worked for a number of years for Lakes Region General Hospital in the Laundry and Central Sterile Departments. She was a member of the Ladies Guild for St. Joseph’s Church in Laconia where she was a C.C.D. Teacher and a Eucharistic Minister. She was a volunteer for the Community Action Program in Concord and was a past Boy, Cub and Girl Scout Troop Leader. Priscilla enjoyed knitting, crochet and was a loving daycare provider to her grandchildren. She is survived by her husband of 53 years, Nelson LeClaire Jr. of Laconia, two sons; Norman LeClaire and his wife Beth of Laconia and Nelson LeClaire III and his wife Allison of Laconia, two daughters; Kaylin Groleau and her husband Jonathan of Laconia and Heidi Miller and her husband Wayne of Laconia, two brothers; Edwin Grey and his wife Sharon of Henrietta, NY and James Gray of Providence, R.I., four sisters; Jeanette Atherton and her husband Walter of Tilton, Lillian Watson of Laconia, Yvonne Dupont and husband Raymond of Belmont and Alexinia Azotea and her husband Ben of Gilmanton, fifteen grandchildren; Azelin Groleau, Andrew Groleau, Alexander Groleau, Kevin Farquharson, Melissa Sulloway, Sally Ann Sulloway, Michael Sulloway, Samantha Sulloway, Jennifer Miller, Natalie Miller, Priscilla LeClaire, Nelson LeClaire IV, Courtney LeClaire, Joshua LeClaire and Emily LeClaire, two great-grandchildren; McKenzie LeClaire and Lacey Norma LeClaire, one brother-in-law, Stuart LeClaire of Bellingham, MA and many nieces and nephews. In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by one brother, Clifford Gray, one sister, Lorraine Dargy, one half brother, Earl Gray and one sister-in-law, Bertha Gray. Memorial calling hours will be held from 4Pm to 7PM on Tuesday, February 10, 2015 at the Wilkinson-Beane-Simoneau-Paquette Funeral Home, 164 Pleasant Street, Laconia, using the Carriage House entrance. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10AM on Wednesday, February 11, 2015 at St. Andre Bessette Parish – St. Joseph’s Church, 30 Church Street, Laconia. Burial will be held in the spring at Sacred Heart Cemetery in Laconia. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, 5 Bedford Farms Drive, STE 201, Bedford, NH 03110 . Wilkinson-Beane-Simoneau-Paquette Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 164 Pleasant Street, Laconia, N.H. is assisting the family with the arrangements.

View Full Notice → Priscilla LeClaire 2/4/2015

LACONIA – Laconia native Harry J. Price, 76, passed away peacefully on Thursday, February 5, 2015 in the company of family and friends at The Retreat at Golden View in Meredith after a three-year fight against cancer. Son of the late Robert Sydney and Ruth Pitman Price, Harry John Price was born on June 4, 1938 in Laconia. He is survived by his wife Susanne, who he has been with for 53 years; his son Jeff and his wife Cristina of Sea Cliff, NY and son Robert and wife Patricia of Campton, NH; his sister Roberta Price Burke of Franklin and predeceased by his brother George Price of Laconia. He is also survived by the six grandchildren he adored and who knew him simply as Buppa – Tristan, Alexa, Mina, Jordan, Julia and Josey. Few individuals have better epitomized the words of the late ESPN sportscaster Stuart Scott when he poignantly noted, “You beat cancer by how you live, why you live, and in the manner in which you live.” After being diagnosed with Stage 4 esophageal cancer in early 2012, Harry embarked on a three-year journey to live every day to it’s fullest with the help of the great team at Massachusetts General Hospital. From big events like the Super Bowl in Indianapolis and the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York, to the activities of his grandchildren in soccer, volleyball, basketball, softball, track and field, plays and concerts or his annual family trip to Wells Beach, Maine, Harry truly treasured every day he was given. All the while he continued to be a “team player” working at Lakes Region General Hospital right up until the last few weeks before his passing. Born the youngest of three children, Harry graduated from Laconia High School in 1956 and was the first in his family to go to college. He graduated from Plymouth State Teachers College in 1963 and embarked on a 16-year teaching career connecting with students in the Hampstead, Franklin and Timberlane school districts. A social studies and history teacher, Harry loved nothing more than taking his students on trips to Boston to inspire them in the living and breathing history of our country. With his summers off while teaching, Harry became an accomplished sailor on his cherished “Serenity” and was a founding member and commodore of the Wentworth-by-the-Sea Yacht Club. Combining his love of history and sailing, perhaps his most memorable voyage along the New England coast was a cruise south from Little Harbor in New Castle, NH down to Plymouth, MA to see the Mayflower and Plymouth Rock. After retiring from teaching, Harry took on a lengthy leadership role at Alpine Ridge Recreation Area in Gilford. Home of the Alpine Slide and an extensive water park back in its day, Harry had the opportunity to mentor and develop hundreds of teenagers who “worked the mountain” with him each summer. Alpine Ridge was also a “family affair” as all members of his family worked there with him over the years, including his beloved foreign exchange students from Mexico City. When Alpine Ridge was forced to close in the early 1990’s due to an ownership change, Harry transitioned to a career in the medical services field. Beginning with a role on the staff of dear friend Dr. Ben Tuttle and followed by his last role on the billing staff at LRGH, Harry was a trusted friend and colleague to many until his passing. Throughout his life Harry was a loving husband, father, grandfather and friend who had a close connection with nature including plants and animals, especially his favorite rose bushes that grew on the same plot of land on which he grew up. He also coached many youth sports teams in Laconia including Little League Baseball and Softball and Lou Athanis Youth Basketball. The family wishes to express their gratitude to three caring and professional medical teams who helped Harry in his fight against cancer. First, Dr. Richard O’Brien and Dr. Robert J. Friedlander and the staff at LRGH. Second, Dr. Eunice Kwak and her associates at Massachusetts General Hospital who helped turn a six-to-12 month dire prognosis into a joyful and fruitful three-year odyssey. Finally, they would also like to thank the patient and kind staff at Golden View for their exceptional care and compassion in his final days and hours. Calling hours will be 4-7 p.m. on Friday, February 13th, 2015 at Wilkinson-Beane-Simoneau-Paquette Funeral Home using the Carriage House entrance, 164 Pleasant Street, Laconia, NH 03246. A “Celebration of Life” will immediately follow at 7p.m. also at the Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that gifts in the memory of Harry Price may be made to the Massachusetts General Hospital Cancer Center in support of esophageal and stomach cancer research. Gifts can be made online at www.massgeneral.org/donate or mailed to the MGH Development Office, Attention: Meagan Coons, 100 Cambridge Street, Suite 1310, Boston, MA 02114. Checks payable to MGH Cancer Center.

View Full Notice → Harry J. Price 2/5/2015 Laconia, NH

View Full Notice → Harry J. Price 2/5/2015

View Full Notice → Allan Hale Jr. 2/3/2015

Meredith, NH—–Lynn Akeroyd Bent, age 83, of Meredith, passed away on February 7, 2015. Born in Pittsburg, PA, on June 2, 1931, to Arthur and Phyllis (Halstead) Akeroyd, the family subsequently moved to Long Island, NY, Waban, MA, and Newton, MA, where Lynn graduated from Newton High School and Boston School of Dental Nursing. She subsequently attended Normandale College, Edina, MN. In 1955 Lynn married William MacFarland Metcalf and moved to Northfield, MN, where their five children were born: Robert Arthur (wife Julie, twins Elsa and Jack), William MacFarland, Jr. (wife Annette), Beth Anne Velasco (husband Al), and Jennifer Duffy (children Ryan and Lauren), all of whom survive her. Lynn was married in 1975 to Herman A. Roeder and moved to San Jose, CA. Mr. Roeder had three sons and two daughters, as well as 7 grandchildren, all of whom survive her. Mr. Roeder passed away in 2001. In December 2010 Lynn and George L. Bent were married in Trinity Episcopal Church in Meredith, NH. They grew up together in Newton, MA, and have known each other for 70 years. George also survives her. She is survived by her sisters Gail Millett, Pawleys Island, SC, and Jean Akeroyd-Rumble, San Francisco, CA, and several nieces and nephews. A memorial service will be held on Wednesday, February 11, 2015, at 11:00 am at Trinity Episcopal Church in Meredith, NH. The Rev. Robin Thomas Soller, officiating. Burial service will be held at a later date at Knollwood Memorial Park, Canton, MA. For those who wish, the family suggests that memorial donations be made to Trinity Episcopal Church, 93 Route 25 East, Meredith, NH 03253 Wilkinson-Beane-Simoneau-Paquette Funeral Home, & Cremation Services, 164 Pleasant Street, Laconia, NH, is assisting the family with the arrangements. For more information and to view an online memorial go to www.wilkonsonbeane.com.

View Full Notice → Lynn A. Bent 2/7/2015

LACONIA – Patrecia “Pat” (Chase) Hilson, 59, of 65 Davis Place, died Sunday, February 8, 2015 at Lakes Region General Hospital after a heroic battle with Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis. Pat was born on May 20, 1955 in Laconia, the daughter of Stephen and Arlene (Provencal) Chase. Pat was a lifelong resident of Laconia. She spent the last 18 years working as the Quality Improvement Administrative Assistant for Lakes Region Community Services in Laconia. Prior to which she worked for the law offices of Fitzgerald & Sessler. Pat enjoyed time with her family, floating in her pool, playing poker, spending time at the ocean, watching old movies, playing bingo and riding in her convertible. Being an organ donor, Pat died the same way she lived, as an unsung hero. She is survived by her husband of 30 years, Michael Hilson Sr, her son, Justin Barkley and his wife Heidi, her daughter, Stephanie Chaffee and her husband George, her mother, Arlene Harbour, five grandchildren; Kylie, Keegan, Taylor, Alex and Austin, her sister, Joanne Brodtman who provided care during her illness, her brother-in-law, Tim and several nieces and nephews. In addition to her father, she was predeceased by her brothers; Karl and Stephen and her step-father, Sonny Harbour. Memorial calling hours will be held from 12 Noon to 2PM on Friday, February 13, 2015 at the Wilkinson-Beane-Simoneau-Paquette Funeral Home, 164 Pleasant Street, Laconia using the Whipple Ave entrance. A time of sharing and remembrances will be held at the conclusion of calling hours at 2PM, also at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Lakes Region Community Services, PO Box 509, Laconia, NH 03247, to assist individuals served by LRCS enjoy camp and recreational opportunities. Wilkinson-Beane-Simoneau-Paquette Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 164 Pleasant Street, Laconia, N.H. is assisting the family with the arrangements.

View Full Notice → Patrecia Hilson 2/8/2015 Laconia, NH

Laconia—–Alice Doucet, 99, of 30 County Drive, died Friday, February 6, 2015 at Belknap County Nursing Home. She was the widow of Adalbert Doucet who died in 1998. Alice was born on July 5, 1915 in Laconia, the daughter of William and Eva (Gosselin) Maheux. She was a lifelong resident of Laconia. Alice was a homemaker for much of her life but also worked as a stitcher and inspector for the Vogue Doll Company for thirteen years. She enjoyed baking, gardening, and playing the organ, but most of all she enjoyed spending time with her large family. Survivors include three sons; Robert Doucet, of Littleton, Co., Roger Doucet, of Belmont and Leo Doucet, of Portsmouth, RI; three daughters, Claire Shuten, of Sterling Heights, MI, Lorraine Satchell of Portland, OR, and Simone Schwerin, of St. Helen, MI; twenty five grandchildren, thirty six great grandchildren and four great-great grandchildren; a brother, Antonio Maheux, of Laconia and many nephews and nieces. She was predeceased by her husband and two daughters, Cecile Brough and Helen Sargent, four brothers, Jack, Edward, Lionel and Robert Maheux and by five sisters, Marie Gilbert, Merilda Drouin, Alberthine Hughes, Rose Blunden, and Irene Wyatt. Calling hours will be held on Thursday, February 12, 2015 from 6:00pm to 8:00pm at the Wilkinson-Beane-Simoneau-Paquette Funeral Home, 164 Pleasant Street, Laconia, using the Carriage House entrance. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Friday, February 13, 2015 at 11:00am at St. Andre Bessette Parish -Sacred Heart Church, 291 Union Ave. Laconia, NH. Burial will follow in Sacred Heart Cemetery, Laconia. For those who wish, the family suggests that memorial donations be made to Belknap County Nursing Home-Activities Fund, 30 County Drive, Laconia NH 03246 or a Charity of one’s choice. Wilkinson-Beane-Simoneau-Paquette Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 164 Pleasant Street, Laconia, NH is assisting the family with the arrangements. For more information and to view an online memorial go to www.wilkinsonbeane.com.

View Full Notice → Alice Doucet 2/6/2015 Laconia, NH

View Full Notice → Priscilla LeClaire 2/4/2015 Laconia, NH

Rita M. Stinson, 70, of Laconia, passed away Tuesday, February 10, 2015, at Lakes Region General Hospital. She was born on August 9, 1944, in Franklin, NH, daughter of George E. Stinson, Sr., and Eva (Spicer) Stinson, and had lived in the Lakes Region since 1965. Rita graduated from Franklin High School in 1962. During her working career, she did factory work, including 10 years at Laconia Needle Company. She retired in 2006 after five years as a homemaker companion at Community Health and Hospice. Rita enjoyed roller skating for many years when she was younger, and she enjoyed spending time with her brother George and his family. She also enjoyed a good box of chocolates. Rita was predeceased by her father and mother, and her sister, Helen O’Dougherty, and nieces Gloria, Linda, and Susan O’Dougherty. She is survived by her brother, George Stinson, Jr., and his wife, Cheryl, of Penacook; sisters Florence Griffin, of Sanbornton, and Diane Stinson, of Bradenton, FL; and many nieces and nephews. A memorial service will be held at 6:30 p.m. on Thursday, February 19, at the Wilkinson-Beane-Simoneau-Paquette Funeral Home, 164 Pleasant St., Laconia. An Urn Burial will take place in the spring at Holy Cross Cemetery in Franklin where she will be buried with her sister and nieces. The family would like to thank the doctors, nurses, and staff at Lakes Region General Hospital and the Norris Cotton Cancer Center for their compassionate care of Rita. In lieu of flowers, it was Rita’s wish that memorial donations be made in her memory to the charity of one’s choice or to the Norris Cotton Cancer Center, One Medical Center Drive, Lebanon, NH 03756. As Rita would often say: “Take care of yourselves and take care of each other”. Wilkinson-Beane-Simoneau-Paquette Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 164 Pleasant St., Laconia, is assisting the family with the arrangements. For more information and to view an online memorial go to www.wilkinsonbeane.com.

View Full Notice → Rita M. Stinson 2/10/2015 Laconia, NH

LACONIA – Margaret Mary (Dolan) Plumer, affectionately known as Peg, died February 2, 2015 peacefully with her daughter at her side. Peg lived on Kinsman Drive in the Taylor Community in Laconia. Born in Boston, MA on September 10, 1925 to Henry C. Dolan and Helen ( Potter) Dolan, Peg grew up in Somerville and Medford MA. During her youth, Peg was a featured singer for the Big Bands that frequented the Boston area night clubs. A song was written especially for Peg’s voice that was later recorded by Frank Sinatra. After graduating from the Prince School of Merchandising, Boston, MA Peg met a handsome young Marine, Lester Plumer, and they were married in 1946. In 1950, Lester was recalled for duty in Korea and he and Peg moved to Camp Lejeune. After his tour, they moved to Reading MA where they raised their two children, Lester, Jr and Diane. Later they moved to New Hampshire and Peg began her long, illustrious, career in banking. She was employed by the Indian Head Bank in Portsmouth for 33 years. After it changed to Fleet Bank, she was the first woman named vice president in New Hampshire. Until two years ago, Peg worked part-time as the friendly, beautiful older receptionist at Meredith Village Savings Bank in Laconia. Peg, Lester, their daughter ,Diane, and son -in-law, Tim, owned and operated the Irish Tweed Shop in Laconia, Wolfeboro, and Hanover. Peg loved to travel and crisscross the globe but her heart was in love with Ireland which she traveled to many times for pleasure and for buying trips. Peg was active in the community and sought after by many committees and boards. She served on the board of directors of Lakes Region General Hospital for many years, Chairing the Finance and Audit committees. Other community service included board of Lakes Region Community Services, Genesis Behavioral Health, Lakes Region Scholarship Fund, Spaulding Youth Center, Treasurer of Christmas Village, Treasurer of Laconia Multinational Committee, Treasurer of Human Relations Committee of Laconia, and member of the Board of Advocates for Taylor Community. Peg was an original foundress of New Beginnings- Without Violence and Abuse, and a member of Zonta International of Laconia. Peg was a life member of the Red Snapper Chapter of the Red Hat Society. She was awarded many community awards over the years including the Rhoda C. Ladd Award for “For Service to Community Health Care”. As a member of Our Lady of the Lakes Parish, Peg taught religious education, was a Eucharistic, did prison ministry, and taught at the PreCana sessions before marriage. She was a member of Our Lady of the Lakes Ladies Guild,serving as treasurer for many years and was designated as Honorary Member when she became too ill to participate. Peg was predeceased by her husband Lester F. Plumer Sr, brother, Francis E. Noonan and sons William G. and Lester Jr. She is survived by her brother Henry C. Dolan and his wife Nancy of South Dennis MA, Daughter Diane and her husband,Timothy Poh, of Meredith, NH. Her Grandchildren include Alexandra and her husband, Christopher Sullivan, Tristan and his wife Marsha Poh, and Brendan Poh, all of San Diego, CA. Sean and his wife Emily Plumer of Milford NH, Scott and his wife Jill Plumer of Bedford NH, and Seth Plumer of Manchester, NH. Her Great Grandchildren are Michael Sullivan and Madeline Poh of San Diego, CA, Collin Plumer of Manchester NH and Raegan Plumer of Milford NH. She is also survived by nieces and nephews and legions of loving friends. Little Peggy Dolan accomplished much in her lifetime of service. She raised a family and had a successful career during a time when doing both was very difficult. She will be remembered for her deep love for her family and friends. She was an inspiration and model of kindness and professionalism for many and did much work to improve the lives of many in our community. Many will miss her wisdom and wise counsel. There will be no calling hours. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Friday March 6, 2015 at 11:00AM at St. Andre Bessette Parish – Sacred Heart Church, 291 Union Avenue, Laconia. Burial will be privately held at Sacred Heart Cemetery, Laconia, at a later date. Contributions in Peg’s name may be made to any of the charitable organizations that she was involved or the charity of your choice. Wilkinson-Beane-Simoneau-Paquette Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 164 Pleasant Street, Laconia, N.H. is assisting the family with the arrangements.

View Full Notice → Margaret Plumer 2/2/2015 Laconia, NH