Ronnie Victor Eastman, 22, passed away on August 23, 2025, leaving a legacy of strength and warmth.

 

Born in Franklin, NH, Ronnie braved early adversity with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Syndrome and overcame challenges of abuse and neglect.

 

He found compassion with the nuns of St. Charles and, in 2014, was lovingly adopted by Annika Noren and Scott Kessler in Vermont.

 

Ronnie’s family includes his devoted parents, siblings in Massachusetts, extended relatives across New England, and cherished godparents Ann and Bill MacGregor of Wolfeboro, NH.

 

His remarkable resilience was matched by his dedication—earning a GED, learning skilled trades, and inspiring others with tireless energy.

 

Avid in fitness, Ronnie completed his first half-marathon and was training for more.

 

His humor, compassion, and talent for connecting brought joy to many.

 

Ronnie aspired to become an EMT or counselor, helping others overcome hardship.

 

A private family service will honor his kind and loving spirit.

Ruth E. Dufresne, 71, passed away peacefully at home in Rochester, New Hampshire, on August 27, 2025, surrounded by her loving family and her devoted husband, William.

 

Born and raised in Rochester, Ruth was the cherished daughter of Julius Christiansen and Elizabeth Dufresne.

 

Known for her deep community involvement, she was an active Eastern Star member, always offering a helping hand.

 

Ruth’s heart belonged to her family and her community.

 

She loved travel, marked by a special 70th birthday cruise, and found joy in caring for birds and squirrels.

 

Her home glowed with Christmas cheer every year, and her collections of lighthouses and angels reflected her spirit of guidance and guardianship.

 

Ruth is survived by her husband, William, her children, stepdaughters, siblings, and many nieces and nephews.

 

In her honor, the family asks for donations to local charities, celebrating her enduring legacy of kindness.

Bruce David Cormier, 75, passed away on August 23, 2025, at Ellsworth hospital, leaving behind a legacy of kindness and community spirit.

 

Raised in Rochester, New Hampshire, Bruce was the youngest of three siblings.

 

He attended St. John's Prep and briefly pursued studies at Harvard before joining the Vietnam War protest movement, a cause close to his heart.

 

With his wife, Sally, Bruce embraced rural life, raising livestock and tending vegetable gardens.

 

They supported their homestead through hard work in local orchards and enjoyed adventurous travels across Latin America and Europe.

 

Bruce was known for his moral strength, tolerance, and outstanding jazz saxophone skills, sharing music with friends around Ellsworth.

 

He is survived by Sally, his brother Bill, and extended family.

 

Local celebrations like the Summer Fun Series and Autumn Gold Festival continue to honor the values Bruce upheld in Ellsworth.

Frederick “Fred” C. Hussey, 68, of Rochester, NH, passed away peacefully on August 17, 2025, after bravely battling cancer, surrounded by his devoted wife.

 

Born in Newburyport, MA, Fred was a beloved son, brother, husband, father, and friend.

 

He attended schools in Massachusetts, Maine, and Hawaii, later serving honorably in the United States Army before planting roots in New Hampshire.

 

Fred dedicated many years as a landscaper at the University of New Hampshire, shaping the campus’s natural beauty.

 

He is survived by his loving wife of 26 years, Melinda, his children, stepchildren, cherished grandchildren, sister, nephew, and many friends he called family.

 

Fred’s passion for woodworking, classic rock, and lively gatherings made him the heart of every celebration; his vibrant spirit will be deeply missed across Rochester.

 

His kindness and warmth continue to inspire all who knew him.

Richard L. Dupuis, 77, of Gonic, NH, passed away peacefully on August 18, 2025, surrounded by his devoted family.

 

Born in Dover, he was the beloved son of George and Eva Dupuis.

 

Richard built a career at Avco Finance, retiring early to embrace life as “Pepere” to his grandchildren and share 57 years with his cherished wife, Rachel “Che Che.”

 

He was an active member of the Knights of Columbus Chapter 2048 in Rochester and made a lasting impact throughout his community.

 

His passion for gardening filled his days; Richard loved tending vegetables, cultivating flowers, and sharing the fruits of his labor both at his farm stand and with loved ones.

 

He is survived by his wife, son, three grandchildren, siblings, and extended family.

 

A funeral Mass is set for August 25 at St. Martin Catholic Church in Somersworth.

 

Memorial contributions are welcomed to the Alzheimer’s Association.

Michael Towle, age 33, of Rochester, NH, passed away peacefully on August 16, 2025.

 

Born in Portsmouth, he was the cherished son of Robert "Bob" Towle and the late Andrea "Deedle" Towle.

 

Michael’s life was defined by a deep love for music, laughter, and a generous spirit.

 

He will be remembered for his warm hugs, kind heart, and the devotion he showed to friends and family.

 

Survived by his father Bob, brother Christopher Towle, sister-in-law Felecia, and nieces Savannah, Willow, and Isla, Michael also leaves many relatives and friends who will miss him dearly.

 

Donations in his memory may be made to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism.

 

A private ceremony will be planned.

 

Michael’s passing is felt as Rochester celebrates The Rapids on Cocheco and the community spirit of National Night Out.

William “Bill” Hoar, a beloved figure in the Rochester, NH community, passed away at home on August 9, 2025, just weeks before his 98th birthday.

 

Born in Woodland, Maine, Bill’s life was defined by dedication—from serving in the U.S. Navy during two eras to supporting defense work at the Boston and Portsmouth Naval Shipyards until his retirement in 1989.

 

He thrived in retirement, spending decades warmly connecting with neighbors at Rochester’s favorite breakfast spots.

 

Bill leaves behind his son and grandson in Kansas, his daughter Sally of Rochester, many nieces, nephews, and was predeceased by two sisters.

 

He cherished friends who became family and appreciated the care from Wentworth Homecare & Hospice.

 

Honoring his wishes, the family will hold a private celebration.

 

Bill’s legacy of friendship and community spirit will remain woven into Rochester life.

James S. “Mac” McCallion passed away on August 12, 2025, at age 78 after a brief illness.

 

Born in Rochester, New Hampshire, Jim was a Spaulding High graduate and U.S. Army veteran of the Vietnam era.

 

He devoted four decades to the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard, then enjoyed retirement breakfasts with friends.

 

Mac gave back as a Little League and softball coach and led the Rochester Girls Softball League.

 

As a lifetime Rochester Elks Lodge member, his service touched many.

 

He is survived by his wife Linda, daughter Jodi, stepchildren, grandchildren, and extended family.

 

A celebration of life is planned for September 21 at the Rochester Elks Lodge.

 

Jim’s legacy of community spirit reflected in events like National Night Out and Rochester Pride, honoring the unity he embodied.

Donna Marie (Mowl) Johns, 66, of Rochester, New Hampshire, passed away peacefully on July 27, 2025, at Portsmouth Regional Hospital following a courageous journey with her health.

 

Born July 29, 1958, in Cincinnati, Ohio, Donna was the daughter of Donald E. Mowl and Alice (Glahn) Mowl. Her childhood adventures, shaped by a military family, took her across the United States and Thailand, sparking her lasting love for nature and resilience.

 

In Rochester, Donna was known for her warmth and dedication, managing convenience stores and supporting many as a mother figure. Simple joys mattered most — gaming with her sons, creating art, and relaxing by the water at Fort Foster, with blue butterflies always holding a special meaning for her.

 

She is lovingly remembered by her husband Dale, her children, grandchildren, extended family, and many friends. Private services will be held. Donations to local nature conservation are encouraged in Donna’s memory.

Harriette E. Pratt, 87, of Rochester, passed away peacefully on July 30, 2025, at Wentworth-Douglass Hospital with her devoted children by her side.

 

Born in Rochester, she was the treasured daughter of Harry and Lena Paquette. Harriette’s legacy shines brightly through her quiet strength, generosity, and kind-heartedness, which touched countless lives.

 

She dedicated years to Davidson Rubber – Textron, Gibbs Convenience Store, and later pursued entrepreneurship with her own laundry service. Harriette was a champion for local youth, volunteering passionately with East Side Little League, Rochester Youth Football, and the Little Red Raiders.

 

Her efforts earned her a place in the Rochester Sports Hall of Fame and a beloved role at the Rochester Senior Center.

 

She delighted in travel, crafts, time at White Lake, puzzles, and family gatherings, leaving behind children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, siblings, and a large extended family.

 

In her memory, donations to the Rochester Senior Center are welcomed. Harriette’s joyful spirit and enduring love for her community will always be remembered.

Justin E. Lemire, 35, and his wife, Sheila, lost their lives in a motorcycle accident on Route 181 in Clayton, New York, on July 19.

 

Born July 21, 1989, in Rochester, New Hampshire, Justin was the beloved son of Donald and Lisa Lemire.

 

He proudly graduated from Farmington High School and served his country in the United States Army, including a deployment to Iraq.

 

Justin married Sheila Ingerson on July 20, 2012, in Alexandria Bay.

 

Passionate about mechanics, he worked at Evolution Motorsports and the Clayton Yacht Club, and was starting his own business.

 

Justin loved boat and car repair, small engines, deer hunting, and motorcycle riding.

 

He is remembered by his family, including children, grandchildren, siblings, and many loved ones.

 

Services will be held August 10 in Rochester, New Hampshire, with Military Honors in recognition of Justin's service.

 

The community grieves and honors their enduring legacy.

Leon “Bud” Meader Jr., 84, passed away peacefully at his Rochester, NH home on August 1, 2025, surrounded by family.

 

Born in Charleston, Maine, Bud built a lasting legacy in Rochester through entrepreneurship, founding Budel Construction, Meader Supply, and Meader’s Heritage Farm, famed for their Granite State Belgians.

 

He served the community through decades of volunteer leadership on local and state boards, most notably during his 35 years with Profile Bank and key contributions to agriculture and economic development.

 

Bud was admired for his deep knowledge of New Hampshire history and antiques, always cherishing time with his loved ones outdoors and at the family farm.

 

He is survived by his brothers, children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, and was predeceased by his wife Ruth.

 

The Rochester community honors his memory, gathering for upcoming events including National Night Out and the Chamber’s summer programs.

Claire Theresa Lemay, 86, passed away on July 19, 2025, in Rochester, NH, surrounded by family.

 

Claire’s life, rooted in faith and service, touched many through her dedication to Holy Rosary Parish, St. Mary's Parish, and the Holy Cross Association.

 

A former third-grade teacher at Holy Rosary School and U.S. Army nurse, she also worked in insurance and at the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard.

 

Her travels took her from Germany and Yugoslavia to cross-country adventures in retirement.

 

Known as "Aunt Claire," her warmth, candidness, and loyalty enriched her extended family and friends, even though she had no children of her own.

 

Claire’s legacy of faith and generosity continues to inspire the Rochester community, which recently celebrated unity at the Lilac Family Fun Festival and the Concert on the Common music series.

Inez Hatfield, 77, peacefully passed away on July 14, 2025, at Portsmouth Hospital after a period of declining health.

 

Born in Celle, Germany on October 3, 1947, Inez was the daughter of Herbert and Elza Jingsts.

 

Known for her dedication as an Administrative Assistant at Macy's, Inez earned respect for her unwavering professionalism.

 

Outside of work, she cherished shopping, gardening, and traveling, embracing each new adventure with joy.

 

Inez is survived by her son, Mark Hatfield, of Rochester, NH.

 

A funeral will be held at 10 AM on July 25, 2025, in the chapel of R.M. Edgerly Funeral Home, with interment to follow at Rochester Cemetery.

 

The family requests donations to local charities in lieu of flowers.

 

Her warmth and kindness leave a lasting impact on all who knew her.

Louise Boudreau, a lifelong resident of Rochester, NH, passed away peacefully on July 14, 2025, at Boston Medical Center, leaving a city in mourning.

 

Known for her humor, kindness, and resilience, Louise was a beloved neighbor and friend whose presence graced local thrift shops and flea markets.

 

Her backyard was a sanctuary for wildlife, and her gentle spirit was a familiar comfort to those walking Rochester’s quiet streets.

 

This summer’s uptick in park renovations and blooms of community gardens reflect her passion for simple pleasures, inspiring new life across the city.

 

Her legacy lives on through her devoted children, Claire Hill and Kevin Rogers, and beloved grandchildren Katie, Adam, and TJ.

 

Louise’s memory will continue to shape Rochester’s spirit of community and renewal, reminding neighbors to cherish the small joys she so deeply loved.

Lawrence J. "Larry" Bisso, Jr., 78, passed away peacefully at his Punta Gorda, Florida home.

 

Originally from Woburn, Massachusetts, Larry’s early love for music shaped his life.

 

A Woburn High School graduate and skilled Drum Major, he went on to study at Berklee College of Music, mastering multiple instruments and touring nationwide as a singer and songwriter for over fifteen years.

 

In Rochester, NH, Larry became a familiar local TV face and devoted band instructor, inspiring countless young musicians.

 

Later, he transitioned into the automobile industry, but his heart always remained with music, teaching privately and in the community.

 

Larry is survived by his loving family, including children, grandchildren, and his sister Maureen.

 

His fondness for sports, warm personality, and dedication to Rochester’s cultural life leave an enduring legacy.

 

Private services are planned, with donations welcomed to the Woburn High School Band Program in his memory.

Paul Joseph Dumont of Rochester, NH, passed away peacefully at home on July 17, 2025, at age 95.

 

Born in Portland, Maine, Paul embodied lifelong values of hard work and service.

 

He and his late wife, Charlotte "Chy" Rippett, raised five children in Gonic, building a family legacy and a thriving electronics business.

 

Paul’s entrepreneurial spirit flourished as he ran “Dumont’s” store and invented creative household gadgets, always putting family and community first.

 

For 34 years he served as Strafford County Commissioner and later as Rochester Police Commissioner, advocating for children and the vulnerable with unwavering integrity.

 

Paul cherished lobster feasts, games with loved ones, and connections with his grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and beloved companion Gabrielle Paige.

 

A Celebration of Life will be held July 23 at Governor’s Inn.

 

Donations may be made to the Paul J. Dumont Scholarship at Spaulding High School.

Kathleen Marie Hubertz, born November 17, 1954, peacefully passed away in her beloved Rochester, NH on July 12, 2025.

 

For 45 years, Kathleen served as a dedicated registered nurse, bringing hope to countless local families.

 

Her nurturing touch extended beyond work, making a lasting impact at Meadaboro Community Church as a Sunday school teacher and joyful leader.

 

Kathleen found adventure with her son, Curtis Hubertz, his wife, cherished friends, and later as a devoted grandmother to Magnolia and Henry.

 

Even in hardship, her generosity lifted her family and embraced neighbors as kin.

 

Despite health challenges, her independence and faith never wavered.

 

She is remembered with love by family, including sister Patricia Houle and honorary children like Marjorie Lougee.

 

A memorial service is set for July 20 at Meadaboro Community Church, ensuring her spirit lives on in Rochester’s vibrant future.

Wayne R. Wiggin, Sr., 82, of Dover, NH, passed away peacefully at home on July 4, 2025, after declining health. Born in Rochester, he spent his life in southern New Hampshire, serving six years in the Army National Guard and working 27 years as a truck driver for H.P. Hood before retiring. Wayne later drove a school bus in Dover and was a devoted member of True Memorial Baptist Church in Rochester. He is survived by his wife Dorothy, three children, a sister, nine grandchildren, eight great-grandchildren, and many relatives. He was predeceased by his half-brothers Harry and Clayton. Visitation and a memorial service will be held on July 12 at True Memorial Baptist Church. The family suggests donations to Options for Women in Rochester. That same day, the community celebrates with the Lilac Family Fun Festival and a fireworks display, reflecting the strong local spirit Wayne valued.

Doris M. Walker, 90, passed away peacefully on July 6, 2025, at Frisbie Memorial Hospital in Rochester, New Hampshire. Born in Dover in 1934 to Arthur and Pauline Cornellier, she spent her life in the local area and worked for years in shoe shops and retail before retiring from TJ Maxx in 1997. Doris found joy in puzzles, word searches, and caring for her beloved dogs, especially Ziggy. Those close to her remember her for her humor, kindness, and devotion to her family. She was predeceased by her husband David, son Ronald, and son-in-law Mark Shirley. Doris leaves behind four children—Arthur, Debra, Sandra, and Donna—along with many grandchildren and great-grandchildren. The family encourages donations to local animal shelters in Doris’s honor. As Rochester prepares for the Lilac Family Fun Festival on July 12, her loved ones invite the community to celebrate Doris’s life during the festivities she enjoyed.

James B. Valyo, 78, of Rochester, passed away on June 29, 2025, after a brief illness. Born in Long Island, NY, Jim spent his early years in Norwood, where he made enduring friendships and embraced a life dedicated to family and community. He served in the U.S. Coast Guard from 1965 to 1969, traveling to Cuba and Greenland, before settling in Newburyport, MA, to start his family. After his military service, Jim enjoyed a 30-year career with Verizon before retiring. He was known for his vibrant personality, love of the outdoors, and enthusiasm for bowling, golf, and yard sales. Jim also contributed as a master gardener, youth sports coach, umpire, and even played Santa for loved ones. He is survived by his wife Linda, three children, six grandchildren, siblings, and extended family. A funeral and community celebration in his honor are planned in Rochester and Norwood.