Roger Gagne ... was Somersworth deputy mayor; at 75

ZEPHYRHILLS, Fla. - Roger Gagne, 75, of Zephyrhills, and formerly of Somersworth, N.H., died peacefully and unexpectedly in his sleep on April 13, 2022, following a period of failing health.

Born in Rochester, N.H., on Friday, September 13, 1946, he was the son of the late Joseph D. and Roseanna (Laurendeau) Gagne and was raised in Somersworth. He attended grammar school in Somersworth and graduated from St. Thomas Aquinas as a member of the charter class of 1964. During the Vietnam Conflict, he served his country in the Army until his discharge in 1967. He retired from GE Meter Department in 2001 after 37 years of service.

He was active in the community serving on the Zoning Board of Adjustment, as a City Councilor, Ward 2 for 8 years and Deputy Mayor. He was also very active in his children's activities, such as Cub Scouts, Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, Music Boosters, just to name a few. He took pride in his involvement with Youth Safe Haven, an after-school homework program. He received the Chamber of Commerce Lifetime Achievement Award in 2007.

He moved to Betmar in Zephyrhills in 2007 and became very active in that community. He served on several boards and committees and was an avid golfer and dart player. He loved gardening and took pride in growing his pineapples.

Roger is survived by his wife and love of his life for 55 years, Janet (Heon) Gagne, his son Christopher, his partner Christine Topinka and her daughters Alanna and Mai-ly Reeves of Seattle Wash.; his daughter Nichole Gagne Turmelle, her husband Mark and their children Ziesha and Brandon of Brick, N.J.; his in-laws Richard (Tammy) Heon of Florida, Celeste (Guy) Riendeau of N.H. and Dr. James (Dr. Sharon) Nelson of Pa., as well as several nieces, a nephew, cousins, and his extended Betmar family.

He was predeceased by his parents, his brothers J. Paul and J. Roland and a granddaughter Kelsey E.