GILFORD ---- Michael Thomas Southworth, of Gilford, suddenly passed away on Friday, January 26, 2024. His loss is completely unexpected, and has left his family profoundly saddened.
Michael was born on May 6, 1949, in Laconia, NH. Raised in Tilton, NH, and one of five children, he was the son of the late William J. Southworth and Ann P. (Taylor) Southworth.
Michael was the founder/owner and operator of Laconia Magnetics, Inc., established in 1984. Having gone to work on the final day of his life, Michael lived out his hopes of never retiring.
A proud veteran of the US Army, Michael retired from the 368th Combat Engineer Unit as a First Sergeant (E8), after 26 years of service.
An avid hunter and fisherman, Michael traveled near and far pursuing his passion, including 19 unforgettable trips to Alaska.
Michael taught himself many trades, including carpentry, fly-tying, gardening, embroidery, pottery making, and wine-making. Michael also enjoyed cooking for “an army,” gambling, watching the news, taking pictures of sunsets, and spending time at the lake with his family.
Michael is survived by his adored wife of 52 years, Deborah Cott Southworth; son, Ryan Thomas Southworth and his wife, Joy Elizabeth Southworth; his beloved grandchildren, Grace Michelle and Thomas Daniel Southworth; brother, Gregory Southworth; and sister, Brenda Southworth. In addition to his parents, he is predeceased by his daughter, Erin Michelle Southworth; brother, William Southworth Jr.; and sister, Janet Southworth.
Calling Hours will be held Sunday, February 4, 2024, 2:00-4:00 pm in the Carriage House at Wilkinson-Beane-Simoneau-Paquette Funeral Home, 164 Pleasant Street, Laconia, NH.
A Memorial Service will follow at 4:00 pm.
A Military Graveside Service will be held on Monday, February 5, 2024 at 10:00 am at the New Hampshire Veterans Cemetery, 110 Daniel Webster Highway, Boscawen, NH.
Michael’s departure comes as a great shock and a deep wound, and it is gravely felt by his entire family and countless others who loved him. A giver and man of such honor, Michael leaves a great legacy and a monumental impact that will last a lifetime for all that were lucky enough to know him. The family sincerely appreciates your support during this time, and in lieu of flowers, requests that donations be made to the newly established Erin Southworth Nursing Scholarship. Donations can be made via Venmo @E_SouthworthNursingScholarship or via check made payable to Lakes Region Scholarship Foundation (please include Erin Southworth Nursing Scholarship in the memo). Please mail checks to Lakes Region Scholarship Foundation, PO Box 7312, Gilford, NH 03247.
Wilkinson-Beane-Simoneau-Paquette Funeral Home & Cremation Services/603Cremations.com, Laconia, NH, 03246, is assisting the family with arrangements. For more information and to view an online memorial, please visit wilkinsonbeane.com.