Leon Skip Cote

Leon J. "Skip" Cote, 83, of Manchester, passed away October 15, 2012 at his residence surrounded by his family.

He was born in Manchester on August 15, 1929, the son of Edouard and Albina (Coutu) Cote and had been a Manchester area resident throughout his life. He was a graduate of Central High School and was a United States Air Force veteran. After serving in the military, he attended Keene State College. For 35 years, he was principle of Bartlett School in Pinardville, until his retirement in 1994. He was a long-time member and past president of the Pinardville Lions Club. He was also an auctioneer. He loved spending time in the comfort of his home, "putzing" in the yard and working in his "shed" which was his home away from home. He was passionate about always helping others. His genuine positive outlook on life always influenced everyone he touched. He was predeceased by two sons, Keith Cote and Kevin Cote.

Family members include his daughter, Holly Cote of Manchester; a step-daughter, Carleen Peetz of Hooksett; a step-son, Gary Peetz of Tampa, FL; one grandchild; three sisters, Orise Pstragowski and Bertha Ladieu, both of Manchester, and Francois Yamhura of CA; two brothers, Robert Cote of Bedford and Edouard Cote of Concord; and many nephews, nieces, uncles, aunts and cousins.

A memorial gathering will take place at Phaneuf Funeral Homes and Crematorium, 250 Coolidge Avenue on Thursday from 9 to 11 AM with a memorial service to follow in the funeral home at 11:00 AM. Complementary valet parking will be provided during the gathering. A graveside committal service with military honors will follow in Pine Grove Cemetery. For more information or to view an on-line Tribute, go to www.phaneuf.net