Bernard passed away peacefully surrounded by loved ones on June 1, 2026, 11 hours shy of his 89th birthday. He was born to his parents Roland and Laurianna (Dumont) Goudreau and was a lifelong resident of Manchester, NH.

Ben proudly served in the United States Army National Guard for 9 years of active duty in the 172nd division and served during the Berlin crisis before his honorable discharge. He then worked for the City of Manchester Parks and Recreation Department for 34 years having obtained the position of supervisor. Following retirement, he continued working part-time for ACA Assurance as a mail clerk.

Whether driving the Zamboni, walking Boynton Street, cutting his lawn, fishing, out to dinner on Saturday night, playing Santa, or performing magic tricks, Ben brought laughter wherever he went. Known for his quick wit, generosity, and willingness to help others, he was a longtime communicant of Sacred Heart Parish, a member of The Precious Blood’s League of a Thousand Men, the American Legion Jutras Post, and a life member of the Catholic War Veterans Post 1624.

Ben was predeceased by his beloved first wife, Yvette (Vigneault) in 1997, his brothers Gilbert and Raymond Goudreau, his sisters Gertrude Cahill, Pauline Cote, and Claudette Houle.

He is survived by his wife of 25 years, Lorraine (Genest); sister Helen Coutu, daughter Tina Goudreau and her husband Bill Maguire of Rochester, NY; grandchildren Andrew and Luke Collison of Rochester, NY, Ethan Maguire of Rochester, NY, Regan Maguire of Winston-Salem, NC, and many nieces and nephews.

Calling hours will be held at Phaneuf Funeral Homes & Crematorium, 243 Hanover Street in Manchester, NH, on Monday, June 8th from 9:00 am to 10:00 am. A Funeral Mass celebrating Ben's life will follow at Sacred Heart Church, 265 S Main St in Manchester at 10:30 am. The Cemetery Committal will take place at Mt. Calvary Cemetery, 474 Goffstown Rd in Manchester at 12:00 pm. Family and friends are invited to attend and share in the celebration of his life.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the National Coalition for Homeless Veterans at https://nchv.org/

To view Ben's online tribute, send condolences to his family, or for more information, visit www.phaneuf.net