Maurice E. Paquette

On November 17, 2024, Lieutenant Colonel Maurice E. Paquette, Army National Guard Retiree, age 92, of Manchester, died at Villa Crest Nursing and Retirement Center. He was born on July 4, 1932 in Manchester, NH, the son of Emile D. and Florida M. (Martineau) Paquette. He attended St. Joseph’s High School and the University of New Hampshire.

He served in the National Guard from 1949 until his retirement in 1987. The last 19 years were served full time. He served on active duty during the Berlin Crisis. He commanded Battery “C” 1st Bn 172 FA, Battery “A” Searchlight 197th FA, New Hampshire Military Academy and the New Hampshire Army National Guard Provisional Command. He was the State Maintenance Officer when he retired. He served as president of the National Guard Association of New Hampshire in 1977.

He was a communicant of Our Lady of Perpetual Help and St. Anthony of Padua parishes, was a member of the choir and did some volunteer handyman work in the parish. He was also a Eucharistic Minister. He was a member of the Legion of 1,000 Men at the Precious Blood Monastery. He was also a member of the American-Canadian Genealogical Society, having researched over eight thousand ancestors and descendants. He belonged to the American Legion, Sweeney Post #2. He enjoyed woodworking, and Toll painting. He was also a regular blood donor and gave over 16 gallons.

Survivors include his daughter, Ellen Boudreau and her husband David of Manchester, his grandson, David Boudreau Jr. of Manchester, Samantha Cooper, who Maurice considered to be like a granddaughter, his brother, Donald Paquette and his wife Carol of Florida, as well as many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

He was predeceased by his wife of 71 years, Lea A. Paquette, and his son, Marc J. Paquette.

Visitation will be held on Monday, November 25th from 3PM-6PM at Phaneuf Funeral Homes and Crematorium, 243 Hanover Street, Manchester, NH. A Memorial Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Tuesday, November 26th at 10AM at St. Anthony of Padua Parish, 172 Belmont Street, Manchester, NH. Burial to follow at St. Augustin Cemetery.