LACONIA ---- Anthony “Tony” Defosses, 66, of Laconia, NH, passed away suddenly on Friday, September 12, 2025.
Tony was born on November 24, 1958, in Laconia, NH, to Richard “Dick” Defosses, Sr., and Mary Lou McQuarrie. He was a lifelong resident of New Hampshire. He graduated from Laconia High School in 1977. After graduating high school, he soon after joined the United States Army, serving in Germany.
Tony lived life with a wild spirit and a big heart. In his younger days, he was known for his mischievous sense of humor—like the time he scared neighbors on White Oaks Road with pranks involving roadkill in mailboxes—and for his generosity, often treating the residents he cared for at the NH State School to pizza or a night out at the arcade. He had a knack for making people laugh and feel cared for.
He spent many memorable days with his close friend Greg Houle, playing horseshoes, listening to music, and raising a little hell. Tony had a soft spot for kids and was always looking out for those in need. His sons remember him throwing birthday parties and baking cakes for neighborhood children whose families couldn’t afford them.
Tony had a love for exotic fish and kept several tanks over the years. Many will remember him from the quirky comic book shop/recycling center/pawn shop he ran in Lakeport—now the site of the Opera House. He also operated a taxi service in the Lakes Region, often helping his regulars with medical bills simply because he cared.
His taste in music was as eclectic as he was—whether it was Venus by Bananarama, Good Ship Lollipop, or the Number One Hits of 1980-something, Tony was always grooving to something unexpected.
Tony was predeceased by his parents, Richard and Mary Lou, and his brothers Richard, Jr., and Nathan. He is survived by his children, Francis Defosses, Amelia Donovan, of Gilford, NH, Stewart Defosses, of Newmarket, NH, Alaina Defosses and Samantha Defosses of Rochester, NH; grandchildren Riley, Ryder, Maverick, and Dakota; sister Missy Defosses, of Belmont, NH; nieces Crystal, Ashley and Skyler; and many dear friends, including Walter and Fred, whom he loved like brothers.
Tony will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who knew him. He lived a colorful life, full of stories, laughter, and kindness. In the end, we are all just stories—be like Tony and make yours unforgettable.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday, October 19, 2025 from 1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. at VFW Post 1670, 143 Court Street, Laconia, NH.
In lieu of flowers, please share your memories of Tony with his family and friends by emailing [email protected].
Wilkinson-Beane-Simoneau-Paquette Funeral Home & Cremation Services/603Cremations.com, 164 Pleasant St., Laconia, NH, 03246, is assisting the family with arrangements. For more information and to view an online memorial, please visit wilkinsonbeane.com.