Wayne “Hoss” Gagnon, 68, a long-time resident of Keene, and formerly of Manchester and Bedford, died suddenly on Monday, January 29, 2018. He passed peacefully at his home.
Wayne was born on July 18, 1949 in Nashua, the son of the late Elsie (Elwell) and Paul Gagnon. He was graduated from Nashua High School class of 1967.
He enlisted in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War. He was the recipient of the Bronze Star, National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal, Pistol Sharp Shooter Award, Rifle Expert Award and Good Conduct Medal. He was honorably discharged in 1972. In his role as a Transportation Specialist, he facilitated soldiers in their transport back home. Over the years, he met many Veterans who he had helped return to the states.
On July 17, 1976 he exchanged vows with Ann M. Boucher at the Immaculate Conception Church in Nashua. They have been married for almost forty-two years.
Education was very important to Wayne. He graduated from New Hampshire College with a Bachelors of Science. He later went on to earn a Masters Degree from Rivier University in 1983.
Wayne, or “Hoss” as he liked everyone to call him about town, was the Ambassador for Bulldog Design in Keene where he had worked for the many years. He enjoyed helping out in many day to day operations of the business, as well as going out into the community to deliver orders and meet with customers. Prior, he had worked at Keene Middle School. Additionally, he was employed by Osram Sylvania, Markem Corporation, and Kollsman Instruments as a Procurement Specialist.
Wayne was a avid train enthusiast. He loved the history of trains and the importance of their historical value, especially the Boston & Maine Railroad. Wayne’s family history with the Boston & Maine fueled his passion for trains and brought him to be a member on the Board of Directors for the Boston & Maine Railroad Historical Society and the Flying Yankee Restoration Group, where he strived to keep the importance of the rail system alive.
He also enjoyed spending time with his family. He loved North Conway, Cape Cod, the seacoast of Maine and spending time on Martha’s Vineyard. He loved to spontaneously get in the car and explore new places all around New England with his family. He always thought of others first and would go out of his way to lend a hand to anyone in need.
Mr. Gagnon is survived by his wife, Ann M. Gagnon of Keene. His two children; Karleen S. Tolman and her husband, Joe of Keene and Justin K. Gagnon and his wife, Whitney of Dover, NH. Two grandchildren; Jordan and Nicholas Tolman both of Keene. In addition he leaves many cousins, extended family and friends.
Calling hours will be held on Friday, February 2, 2018 from 5 to 8pm in the funeral chapel. Burial will take place at a later date with military honors at the New Hampshire Veterans Cemetery in Boscawen. Donations in Wayne’s honor can be directed to: Flying Yankee Restoration Project, WWW.flyingyankee.org. All services are under the care of Cheshire Family Funeral Chapel and Crematories, 44 Maple Ave. Keene, NH. 03431. WWW.cheshirefamilyfh.com
