Henri E. Bedard, 80, passed peacefully March 12, at his home in Salem , NH surrounded by his loving family.
Henri attended school at the former Sacred Heart Parish in South Lawrence . He also attended Essex Aggie Agricultural School before entering the US Navy where he served and was honorably discharged. Henri retired from the Salem NH School District where he was a custodian for the North Salem grammar school for 17 years, where he was best known as “Hanky Panky.” Henri was an Honorary Life member of the Salem-Derry Elks Lodge #2226. He was also an avid golfer, hunter, and miniature woodcrafter. He most enjoyed being surrounded by his grandchildren and great grandchildren.
Henri is survived by his wife of 60 years, Theresa (Martin) Bedard, who was the love of his life. He was the proud father of two daughters, Denise Floriddia and her husband Peter of Salem, NH and Renee Royal of Henniker , NH . He is also survived by five grandchildren, Jason Houle and his wife Kristine of Hampstead NH, Grant Houle and his wife Danielle of Derry NH, Aimee Howe and her husband David of Bradford, NH, Laura Sevigny and her husband Jonathan of Warner, NH, Billy Hardy of Newport NH, seven great grandchildren, Kendra, 18, Kenny 10, Austin, 10, Johnny 10, Macie 9, Meadow 3 and Gavin 18 months. He is also survived by two brothers, Robert Bedard, and Richard Bedard and sisters Eva LeClair, Irene Landry, and Claire Habib and Pauline Grolic and several nieces and nephews. He was also predeceased by his brother Albert, and two sisters Rita and Doris.
Friends are invited to visit from 2 to 6 p.m. on Friday, March 18th at the Goundrey and Dewhirst Funeral Home, 42 Main Street , Salem , NH . A Memorial Service in Henri’s honor will follow at 6 p.m. at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, Memorial donations can be made to the Amedisys Hospice Services, 1E Commons Drive , Unit 33, Londonderry , NH , 03053 .