Alton, NH

Francis W. Portigue, age 95, of Suncook Valley Road in Alton, died peacefully at home, April 21, 2016.

Born December 16, 1920 in E. Stratford, NH, the son of John and Ella (Sweet) Portigue, he moved from Groveton, NH to Alton, NH in 1943.

Francis was a Veteran of the United States Navy, having served during World War II.

Prior to retirement, he had worked as a machinist with Kidder Press, at Scott and Williams, at Lewis and Saunders and had worked at the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard.

He was a member of the American Legion in Alton.

Survived by his wife of almost 70 years: Evelyn (Pervere) Portigue, son: Mark Portigue and wife Tanya and 4 daughters: Jane and husband David Howe, June and husband Paul Bragdon, Gloria Hanscom, Gail and husband Tom Mann, 19 Grandchildren, 18 Great Grandchildren and 3 great great grandchildren, also several nieces and nephews. Predeceased by a son Rodney Portigue, a son in law Al Hanscom, 3 sisters: Mary Elizabeth Bowles, Delma Rollins, Annie Pervere and a brother Fred Portigue.

Francis loved hunting and fishing and also grew a garden every year. He always shared of his abundance from the garden with others. He always had a smile on his face and liked to pull pranks and joke. He often told of his experiences in the Navy during World War II. He was very faithful to his church in attendance until illness kept him from being able to do so. He loved his family and always enjoyed being with them.

A Funeral Service will be held on Monday, April 25, 2016 at 11am at First Free Will Baptist Church, 20 Depot Road in New Durham, NH, with a calling hour prior to the service at church from 10-11am. Interment will follow at New Riverside Cemetery in Alton, with military honors by the United States Navy. Arrangements by Peaslee Alton Funeral Home.