Stringer Funeral Homes Inc. & Crematorium

04/28/2026

Patricia Jane (Papps) Hopkins, 90, of Claremont, New Hampshire, passed away peacefully on April 24, 2026. Born in Claremont on August 27, 1935, to Clyde and Esther Papps, she was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and friend. Patricia graduated from Stevens High School with the class of 1953.
On June 25, 1956, Patricia was united in marriage to Theodore “Ted” Hopkins. That same afternoon, the couple set off for Jacksonville, Florida, where Ted had assured her — with more confidence than evidence — that a place to live would be waiting for them. The Navy then took them to Norfolk, Virginia, where they welcomed their first son, Andrew. The family eventually returned to New England and settled in Claremont, where their second son, Philip, was born.
Patricia dedicated much of her life to the service of others. She worked for many years as a nurse at the VA Medical Center in White River Junction, Vermont, caring for the veterans of her community with compassion and skill. She later served faithfully as secretary of her church, a role she held for many years.
Patricia was known for her energy and warmth, her quick wit, and her love of family. She enjoyed hiking with her dogs, working puzzles, and playing cards with family and friends. Above all, she cherished the time she spent with those she loved.
Patricia is survived by her loving husband of nearly seventy years, Theodore Hopkins of Claremont; her son, Philip Hopkins (Cheryl Lawton); and her grandson, Isaiah Hopkins. She is also survived by her nieces and nephew, Catherine Barg (Randall Barg) of Ipswich, MA; Elizabeth Jaszczyszyn (George Jaszczyszyn) of Holyoke, MA; Margaret “Peggy” MacDonald (Larry Lewack) of Burlington, VT; Christine Matos (Henry Matos) of Somerset, MA; Daphne Gawne (Michael Gawne) of St. Albans, VT; and Cully Thurston of Claremont; and by her dear friends Darlene LaPlante of Keene, Nancy Bogle of Claremont, Storm and Dariel Connors of Elkins, and David Barton of Connecticut. She was preceded in death by her son, Andrew Hopkins, in 2019, and by her sister, Carolyn MacDonald, in 2020.
The family wishes to extend their heartfelt thanks to Patricia’s neighbors Tad Staszkiewicz, Ralph Simoneau, David and Darlene Paige, and Roger Lord, whose kindness and assistance during her declining health meant a great deal to her and to those who loved her.
Funeral services will be held privately.

04/27/2026

Wayne Leewood Chartier Sr. August 10, 1928 - April 22, 2026. He was born and raised in Claremont, New Hampshire. He grew up with an appreciation for hard work and love of family and he carried those values throughout his years. At the age of 14 he served in the Civil Air Patrol for 4 years before joining the Navy. He served aboard the USS Sipan (CVL 48) in the pacific. Aside from the Navy, he was most proud of working for United Technologies/Pratt & Whitney Aircraft for 34 years and his last position was Research Technician in the Materials Laboratory working in cutting edge holography at both plants in Connecticut and Florida.
Wayne’s favorite hobbies were hunting, fishing, skiing in his youth and later photography, music and drawing. He also volunteered in several organizations including serving as supply sergeant for the USS Sipan Aircraft reunion association, Special Olympics, and was a member of the American Legion and Knights of Columbus.
He was preceded in death by his lovely wife Genevieve (Mansfield) of 64 years and is survived by 3 children, Sandra C. Parker, Wayne L. Chartier Jr. (Ophelia) and April C. Puryear (Wood). He leaves behind 4 grandchildren Genevieve Dufresne, Brigitte Dufresne, Jenniner Dufresne, Wayne L. Chartier III and 7 great grandchildren Allison Dyer, Natalie Toupal, Jon Laplante, Domonique Laplante, Savannah O’Connell, Maddox O’Connell, Gabriel Webber, Elle Chartier and Sierra Chartier.
Wayne was a big supporter of Boys Town organization and St. Joseph’s Indian School (Lakota). In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Boys Town organization.
Visitation will be on Sunday afternoon, May 3rd from 1pm to 3pm at Stringer Funeral Home in Claremont, NH. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Monday morning, at 11am at St. Joseph Church with burial to follow in St. Mary Cemetery with military honors

04/23/2026

Jonathan Kyle Glidden (Jono) 43 years old died April 16, 2026, of a massive heart attack. He was born January 25, 1983, to Cynthia (Martell Glidden) Welch and the late Kim Allen Glidden. He grew up in Claremont, NH and attended Claremont school where his passion was on the soccer fields. Jonathan later moved to the Concord area and made his home for the past several years at the Homestead Inn in Boscawen, NH.
He is survived by his mother, his sister Nicole Almstrom, his maternal grandmother Dorothy Martell, one nephew Thomas Agatone, and two nieces Morgan Agatone and Autunm Almstrom.
Jonathan was predeceased by his father, his maternal grandfather Conrad Martell Sr., and his paternal grandparents Stanley and Elenor Glidden.
He enjoyed watching movies, target shooting and spending as much time as he could with family. He had a newfound love for photography and kayaking. He loved outings by the water whether it be the ocean lake or a water park. He especially loved family outings at the Newbury Dock and cherished his time spent by the ocean, especially Hampton Beach.
We will miss his sense of humor his big heart and his smile. He will forever live in our hearts.
A small family gathering will take place at a later date. There will be no service or calling hours.

04/23/2026

Alan Ira Noyes, age 67, of Claremont, New Hampshire, passed away on April 19, 2026.
He was born on November 26, 1958, in West Stewartstown, New Hampshire, to the late Wilfred and Elsie Noyes. Alan grew up in Pittsburg, New Hampshire, where he spent his early years surrounded by the northern New Hampshire landscape he would continue to love throughout his life.
Alan was a hardworking man who spent many years as a lineman for the New Hampshire Electric Cooperative. He loved his job and took great pride in his work helping to restore and maintain power for communities throughout the region. His dedication and work ethic were evident to all who worked alongside him.
During the ice storm of 1998, Alan was severely injured while working on powerline restoration efforts. The accident left him a quadriplegic and profoundly changed the course of his life. Despite this, he met his challenges with perseverance, strength, and a consistently positive attitude that inspired those around him.
Alan loved the outdoors and found joy in hunting, fishing, and observing nature. He enjoyed fixing up things around the house and took pride in being able to make things work again. He also loved music, which remained an important and meaningful part of his life. Above all, he was a dedicated father and family man who valued his children deeply and took great pride in them.
He is survived by his daughter, Aubrey Morris, and son-in-law Colin Morris of Westford, Vermont; his son, Garrett Noyes, and daughter-in-law Blythe Webster of South Boardman, Michigan; as well as his siblings Brad Noyes, David Noyes, Tommy Lewis, and Deborah Lewis. He is also survived by extended family, his many dedicated caregivers, and friends who will miss him deeply. He is preceded in death by his sister Ramona Cameron.
A celebration of life will be held later this summer.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Society for the Protection of New Hampshire Forests, 54 Portsmouth Street, Concord, NH, 03301, www.forestsociety.org.

04/17/2026

James “Jim” A. Come, Jr., 86, died peacefully Thursday, April 16, 2026, at Cedar Hill in Windsor, VT.
Jim was born May 9, 1939 in Woodsville, NH to James and Rita Come, and lived most of his childhood in Wells River, VT.
Jim married Audrey DeRusha and they moved to Claremont, NH, they later divorced. In 1988, he married Marilyn Prouty. They lived together in Charlestown, NH for many years before moving to Cedar Hill Assisted Living in Windsor, VT a few years ago. They co-owned and operated M&J Shoe Store in Charlestown for a number of years before retiring. They also enjoyed traveling to Florida for many years before settling permanently back in Charlestown, NH.
Before co-owning and operating M&J Shoe, Jim worked for many years at Jones & Lamson and Bryant Grinder, both in Springfield, VT.
Jim is survived by his daughter, Daryl Cady, son, James (Dee) Come, and stepson Mark Prouty & partner Wendy Allen. Grandchildren and step grandchildren, Jessica Cady-Burlew, Eric (Kristiyana) Cady, Jacob (Erin) Vienne, Ben (Bonnie) Hastings, Brandon Hastings, Kelley Prouty, and Ryan (Erin) Prouty. Great grandchildren and step great grandchildren Nicholas, Isabel, Luca, Kaden, Evan, Riley, and Willow, several nieces, nephews and many friends.
He was predeceased by his parents, his brother Charles, and his wife Marilyn.
There will be no calling hours. A graveside service will be held Friday, April 24, at 11AM at Pine Crest Cemetery in Charlestown, NH. To join us at the cemetery (not on Google) turn onto Jeff Drive off of Old Claremont Road (look for the Pine Crest sign). Do not turn to the right when Jeff Drive bears off. Follow road straight to the end.
A reception will be held immediately following the service at the Sumner House, 122 Main St, Charlestown, NH.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in memory of Jim to a charity of your choice.

04/15/2026

Sally Ann (Minard) Decker, of Claremont, New Hampshire, died quietly while sleeping in her bed at the Elm Wood Center in Claremont after a gradual decline in health over the past year. Her last day was April 12th, 2026.

She was born 84 years ago, on February the 1st, 1942, into a house full of music. Her father George Minard (decd) and Margaret (Gowdy) Minard (decd) raised her and her brother Dick (decd) and sister Bonnie (86) with love and music. Sally delighted in playing the cello and the piano. She sometimes smiled and said she wished her fingers were longer so that she could play the arrangements she loved.

Her small 5’2” stature was no obstacle to winning the NH state diving championship representing Stevens High School of Claremont, NH where she graduated as part of the class of 1960. In her early life she worked as a dental hygienist and she worked at a school for deaf children at a Crotched Mountain facility in NH. As she would often say though, all she ever wanted to be was a wife and mother.

Making a home for two boys, Mark Decker (51) and Eric Decker (55) and their father James Decker (decd) was her true passion. She taught them the piano and passed on the family love of music, which Mark shared, later becoming a DJ and a radio host before joining the Army. The family three played many board games almost every evening. After devouring the instruction manuals for dozens of these games and examining how all the pieces fit together, Eric went on to become a computer engineer.

As the boys went off into the world, Sally worked as a file clerk for the NH State Department of Health and Human Services, which had supported her as she raised the boys as a single parent. She would sometimes scold her coworkers when the manilla folders were not returned to the proper tray as she diligently kept all the information in its proper place.

A debilitating stroke ended her working days in disability, but she lived independently in her Claremont apartment for as long as she possibly could. She eventually, reluctantly, moved into the Elm Wood Center long term nursing wing where she could get the living assistance that she required.

She was sustained by frequent visits with her devoted and loving sister Marilyn (Bonnie) Gagne and sporadic phone calls and visits from the boys who would tell her stories of their adventures. The boys now live in Austin, Texas, where Mark has children and grandchildren of his own. When Sally wasn’t occupied with visitors, the familiar theme music of old TV programs like Gunsmoke and the Golden Girls could be heard from her room as she fought to see through her untreatable cataracts to circle words in her latest puzzle book.

After defying doctor’s expectations year after year, she finally heard her last music at the start of her 84th New England springtime, in a town called Claremont, leaving a comfortable groove like the one in her favourite chair where she sat and watched her TV and listened to her music.

Donations can be made to the Seven Hills Foundation, which supports struggling families. https://sevenhills.networkforgood.com/projects/173750-answer-the-call-to-care

A graveside service will be held on Monday, April 20th at 2PM at the West Claremont Burying Grounds (Union Cemetery) in Claremont, NH. a reception will follow at 14 Shorewood Estates Road, Newport, NH 03773.

Give Gift that Answers the Call to Care. In this ongoing period of uncertainty in Health and Human Services, hope is a lifeline, and Seven Hills is the place people turn to find help and stability — where people find support to navigate challeng...

04/03/2026

Caterina “Cathy” (Salsiccia) Belanger, of Claremont, New Hampshire, passed away peacefully at home on April 1st, 2026 surrounded by her loving family. She was the loving wife of Alphonse Belanger. Born on August 6, 1937, in Algeria and raised through her childhood and teenage years in Palermo, Sicily, she was a true Sicilian at heart, deeply proud of the culture, traditions, and values that shaped her. She was the beloved daughter of Girolamo and Margherita Salsiccia and a devoted sister to her brother, Angelo.

After the war, Cathy immigrated to the United States through Ellis Island, joining her parents on a journey to America. She carried their courage and sacrifice with her always, building a new life while never forgetting where she came from. She held tightly to her roots—her language, her recipes, her customs—and passed them down to the generations that followed. She spoke French, English, and Italian, moving gracefully between cultures and conversations, and using her words to welcome, comfort, and connect. Her journey from her birth in Algeria and early years in Sicily, to New York and Boston, and eventually to New Hampshire, was marked by resilience, determination, and an unwavering devotion to family.

In her early twenties, while working and building her new life in Claremont, New Hampshire, Cathy met the love of her life, Alphonse Belanger, in a local shoe shop. What began as a simple encounter quickly grew into a lifelong partnership. They married soon after and went on to share nearly 68 years of marriage, standing side by side as the rock of their family. Together, they were often found on the dance floor, moving with an effortless grace and joy—ballroom dancing became one of their great shared loves, and when they danced, it was clear to everyone around them how deeply they adored each other.

Together they raised two sons, Dennis Belanger and Anthony Belanger, who were the pride and joy of her life. Cathy was not only a grandmother but a best friend and caretaker to her beloved grandson and granddaughter, Matthew Belanger and Angela Belanger. She was present for every milestone she could be, offering guidance, comfort, and unconditional love. To her grandchildren, she was a confidante, a protector, and a constant source of warmth, laughter, and stories from her past.

The matriarch and true connector of her family, Cathy took care of everyone. She was the one who held the family together, making sure no holiday, celebration, or ordinary day passed without a phone call, a visit, or a seat at her table. Her home was the gathering place, where relatives and friends came to feel welcomed and loved. A wonderful cook and baker, she filled her home with the smell of simmering sauce and her signature Italian cookies. She never let anyone leave hungry or empty handed.

Cathy is survived by her loving husband, Alphonse Belanger; her sons, Dennis Belanger and Anthony Belanger; Dennis’s wife, Sheila Belanger; and Anthony’s partner, Jeannine Foley. She is also survived by her grandchildren, Matthew Belanger and his husband, Jake Belanger, and her beloved granddaughter, Angela Belanger; and by her brother, Angelo Salsi, his wife, Ina Salsi, and their son, Jamie Salsi. She leaves behind extended family and many dear friends who will remember her warmth, wit, and unwavering devotion.

Cathy’s life journey—from her birth in Algeria and childhood and teenage years in Sicily, through Ellis Island, to her long-time home in Claremont—was a testament to courage, love, and the power of family.

Services for Cathy will be held on Monday, April 6th at Stringer Funeral Home in Claremont, New Hampshire. Viewing will be from 10:00–11:00 am, followed by a brief service from 11:00–11:15 am. The procession will then depart for St. Mary's Cemetery, arriving at approximately 11:30 am. A reception will be held at The Common Man in Claremont from 12:00–4:00 pm for family and friends to gather and remember Cathy.

03/31/2026

David J LaBelle, born on October 15, 1959, passed away on March 24, 2026. He was the beloved son of Beverly (Tucker) LaBelle and Emery LaBelle. David attended Lebanon NH Elementary and Mascoma Valley Regional High School. He worked at Griswold’s garage in Plainfield NH and served as a Firefighter/EMT-I in Windsor and North Hartland VT.

David had a passion for hunting and fishing when his health allowed. He was an active member of the Triple 3 CB club, enjoying conversations with friends near and far. As a member of Pike township mini pullers, he won many trophies and cherished spending time with friends and family.

He was predeceased by his parents and brother Michael. David is survived by his son Jason (Tanya) and grandchildren Krystal and Joshua of Tennessee, his brother Gary (Linda) of Canaan NH, sister-in-law Nancy LaBelle of Quechee VT, and his fiancé Maureen Preston. He also leaves behind many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Services will be held at a later date.

03/26/2026

James Willard Berlanger passed away at home in Charlestown on Wednesday night, March 25, 2026, with his beloved wife of 43 years by his side.
He was born on November 23, 1947, in Claremont, NH, the son of Willard and Alice (Tupper) Berlanger.
He graduated from Steven’s High School.
He and his dad operated Berlanger’s Machine shop on Highland Ave in Claremont. He took over the business after his dad passed away.
He worked at Cones in Windsor, Bryant’s in Springfield and Pike in West Lebanon.
He enjoyed the 2 Cylinder Clubs. He always enjoyed plow day.
He loved his westerns; Gunsmoke, Rifleman, Laramy, High Chaparral and Wagon Train. He also enjoyed hunting, fishing and camping.
He married the love of his life, Eileen (Wilson) on November 7, 1981.
He is survived by his wife, daughter, Jeannine (Mark) Files of White River Jct., VT; granddaughter, Laura Files (Dave) of Keene; grandson, Andrew (Rachel) Files of Turner, Maine. Also brother and sister-in-law, Mick and Sheila Wilson Litchfield NH; nephews, Marc and Micah and nieces, Rebecca, Leah and Tarah; his cat, Angel and his late beloved dog, Cody.
A graveside service will be held at the Brownsville Cemetery in Brownsville, VT on May 16th at 2PM.
The family wants to thank his home care givers, especially Diane Smith and Lake Sunapee Hospice.
Donations to Humane Society in Enfield, NH.

03/26/2026

Roger Kenneth “Chili-Man” Whittemore, 81, of Claremont, NH, died March 23, 2026 at the Jack Byrne Center in Lebanon, NH.
Roger was born on December 4, 1944 in S**o, ME, the son of the late Kenneth E. and Bertha D. (Grace) Whittemore.
Roger was raised in S**o, and Old Orchard Beach, ME, for the first eleven years of his life. He then moved with his parents to Claremont, NH, where he attended Stevens High School. Roger entered the U.S. Navy at the age of 19.
Roger served the U.S. Navy as a Photographer’s Mate, where he retired after a remarkable 22-year career. Roger served during the Vietnam and Gulf War. While in the Navy, he was credited with photographing a never before photographed USSR Warship and published in Jane’s Fighting Ships. He circumnavigated the earth, crossed the equator two times. He has visited 12 countries. Roger was known to be highly proficient for producing quality work. Roger was awarded numerous awards, and commendations from various admirals and commanding officers.
After retiring from the Navy, Roger worked as the switchboard operator for the V.A. Medical Center in White River Junction, VT, between 1998 and 2003. In 2000, on his off hours from the V.A., began his dream of starting his own manufacturer plant, “Abundant Nutrition”. As owner/founded, he formulated produced a pre-package, Gourmet, instant Chili-Mix, called; Roger’s Dead River Chili-Mix. In 2003, Roger left the V.A. to work full time at his dream. In 2004, he suffered a heart attack and was forced to close the plant in 2005.
Roger was a member of the Polish-American Citizens Club, The American Legion post 29, Men’s Auxiliary to the Veterans of Foreign Wars; Fleet Reserve Association; Disabled American Veterans Chapter 20 and the AARP.
Roger was a “Big Brother” for the Big Brother, Big Sister of Western New Hampshire, where he enjoyed mentoring a young person, and honored as the “Community Big Brother of the year 2009”
Roger’s hobbies included scuba diving (Padi-Divemaster), boating, and fishing. He was a member of the following fishing organizations; New England Saltwater Fly Rodders, Stripers Forever, Federation of Fly Fishers, Coastal Conservation Association of New Hampshire, and Trout Unlimited.
Roger is survived by his brother, Ronald Whittemore and his wife, Lois of Claremont, NH, one niece and one nephew and several aunts, uncles, and cousins.
He was predeceased by his brother, Lawrence Whittemore.
Visiting hours will be at the Stringer Funeral Home in Claremont on March 30, 2026 from 2 to 4 pm.
Roger will be interred, during a private service at the New Hampshire State Veterans Cemetery in Boscawen, NH.

03/24/2026

Norman Abraham Dion, lovingly known as Lefty, Dad and Pepé, passed away on Saturday, March 21, 2026 at the age of 101, surrounded by the love of his family.
He was born on October 19, 1924, in Spencer, MA to Leo Dion and Esma Duteau Dion and lived in Claremont for most of his life.
Norman graduated St. Mary’s high school in 1943 then joined the US Navy and served as a Torpedo man on the USS-Haraden DD585. In 1946, he was honorably discharged and was awarded the Purple Heart Medal, American Campaign Medal, Asiatic Pacific Campaign Medal with 4 bronze stars, World War II Victory Medal and the Philippine Liberation Medal with two bronze stars.
After returning from the war, he went to work for Lambert Oil in Claremont NH, then went on to work for the Claremont Fire Department and retired in 1976 after 24 years of service. He then went on to work at LaValley building supply until retiring again in 1981.
In 1954 Norman married the love of his life, Edythe Vadney and was happily married until she passed in 2001. He then moved to Goshen to live with his daughter, Roberta and her husband Harold Roberts.
Norman was predeceased by his parents, Leo and Esma Dion, his brother Paul Dion, his wife Edythe, son Peter Vigneault and son-in law Harold Roberts.
He is survived by his daughter Roberta Roberts, daughter in law Judy Vigneault, son Dennis Vigneault and wife Susan, his daughter Sherri Cummings and husband Tom, along with many grandchildren, great grandchildren, great, great grandchildren, nieces and nephews.
At Norman’s request, a private memorial will be held with his family.
The family wishes to extend their sincere gratitude to Lake Sunapee VNA and Hospice and the Goshen Fire Department for their compassionate care and support. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in his honor.
Norman was a devout Catholic, took great pride in defending his country, being a friend to everyone he met and immensely loving his family.
Forever remembered, forever loved!

03/24/2026

Virginia M. Dufresne passed away peacefully at home on March 11, 2026 at the age of 77 while being surrounded by her loving family.
Virginia was born on June 30, 1948 in Lebanon, NH. She attended Richards School in Newport, NH, Claremont Jr. High and St. Mary’s High School in Claremont, NH where she graduated in 1967.
Virginia married her husband of 56 years Andre’ V. Dufresne on June 1, 1968 in Claremont, NH. She had three daughters. She worked at Dunkin Donuts, Holsum Bakery and Split Ball Bearing (Timken) where she retired after 32 years when her health began to decline.
Virginia found enjoyment in spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren, playing bingo and cribbage, doing crossword puzzles, going to casinos, attending conventions with the local lodges where she could travel and take in many new sights, making friends while volunteering with helping others in their many needs. She was a member of the American Legion Auxiliary #29, a life member of the VFW Auxiliary #808 and the WOTM #629 where she held many positions over the years.
Virginia was predeceased by her parents, William H. and Marie Cummings, Sr., her husband Andre’, her brothers, William Cummings Jr., Theodore Cummings, Sr., and Henry Cummings, Sr., her sisters, Judith Cummings and JoAnn Johnson.
Virginia is survived by her daughters, Mabel Bertot (Michael) of West Warwick, RI, Kathy Webster and Mary Judd both of Claremont, NH, her grandchildren, Nicholas Bertot (Katie), Daniel Bertot (Denisse) and Rhiannon Bertot (Shawn) all of Manchester, NH, Victoria Webster (Jason) of Keene, NH, Mariah Dufresne (Keevan) of Claremont, NH and Alysha Webster (Adam) of Springfield, VT. Her great grandchildren, Allyssialyn Furtado, David Dufresne and Natiery Haley all of Claremont, NH. Her sisters, Janice Converse (Larry) of Claremont, NH and Mary Stone (Harold) of Walpole, NH, and many cousins, nieces and nephews.
A Celebration of Life for Virginia will be held on Sunday, May 17, 2026 at the Newport Moose Family Center #1236 in Newport, NH from 12 pm to 4 pm. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Saturday, July 11, 2026 at 11 am at St. Norberts Church in Hardwick, VT with a graveside service at Fairview Cemetery. A gathering will be held following the service at the church’s reception room.
Virginia’s family would like to extend a sincere thank you to Associates of Medicine, Valley Regional Hospital, Golden Cross Ambulance, Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center, Cheshire Medical Center, Cheshire County EMS and Bayada Hospice for helping take care of our mother through her illnesses.
In lieu of flowers the family asks that donations be made to the Sullivan County Humane Society, 14 Tremont Street, Claremont NH 03743