John Nason Labrecque Jr.

GORHAM – John Nason Labrecque Jr., 90, passed away at home in the early hours of June 25, 2024. His wife of 70 years, Betty, was by his side.

John was born and raised in North Gorham by his parents, John and Frances Labrecque. He attended Gorham schools; Levi Hall School, a one room schoolhouse through 6th grade, Frederick Robie School for middle school, and finished 10-12th in the village at Gorham High School where he led his class as Senior Class President. It was there, at the age of 15, where he met the love of his life, Betty. Post high school, he attended UNH, graduating in 1956 with a degree in Agriculture. He worked for Agway and S.D. Warren paper mill where he earned his Master Electrical License before starting his own business – L & L Electric.

John was very active in the community; serving on the Gorham School Committee for nine years, several of these were served as Chairman, serving as trustee of the North Gorham United Church of Christ, and working on the Church’s Bean Hole Bean suppers; a legacy started by his father, John Sr., over 50 years ago.

His passions included being in the woods and wood-working on his lathe; creating many beautiful bowls, lamps, etc. and selling them at various local craft shows. He was a creative poet and writer of stories; both fiction and autobiographical. This was inspired by John and Betty’s involvement as a presenting team for Marriage Encounter weekends for 10 years. John was also actively involved in the North Gorham Writers Group. He took great pride in his wood turnings and writing and will always be remembered for reminding us all to “write it down”.

John will forever be remembered for his sensitivity, ‘creativity’, and quick wit. He raised his family the way he was raised which is described by one of his favorite quotes by Clarence B. Kelland; “My father didn’t tell me how to live; He lived, and let me watch him do it”.

John was loved by many. He is survived by his wife, Betty; his daughters Carol Saucier (Brian), Lisa Spiller (Kenneth), Susan Damron (Mark), as well as Deb Morgan, Chris Coro, and Dan Foss, who all refer to him as “Dad”. His legacy also leaves 11 grandchildren, Travis Spiller, Dustin Spiller, Tyler Spiller, Lynde Jackson, Melissa Bailey, Steven Saucier, Kelly Pease, Michael Saucier, John Labrecque Morgan, Sam Strumph, and Ben Morgan; and 19 great-grandchildren.

He was predeceased by his parents; and his son, John Steven Labrecque.

Services will be held July 26 at North Gorham United Church of Christ. Time, and other details to be determined.

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