Archie W. Letourneau Jr., known as Willy, 94, of Jaffrey, N.H., passed away on May 21, 2024, at Jaffrey Rehabilitation and Nursing Center in Jaffrey, N.H., following a period of declining health.
Willy was born on May 10, 1930, in Peterborough, N.H., a son to the late Archie W. Letourneau Sr. and Elinor I. (Wheeler) Letourneau. Willy attended and graduated from Conant High School in 1948. Following this, Willy went on to serve his country with the United States Navy as a musician during the Korean Conflict, where he attained the rank MU2.
After an honorable discharge in 1952 Willy continued with his musical talents by starting his own orchestra. Willy also devoted his life to his craft of carpentry, establishing successful companies such as Garfield & Letourneau, Decelle & Letourneau, and Klien & Letourneau. His passion for carpentry shone through every project he undertook until his well-deserved retirement in 2005. Willy will be remembered for his unwavering commitment to his work and the lasting impact he made in the field of carpentry.
Willy spent most of his life between the states of New Hampshire and Maine but would end up spending more than 45 years in his beloved hometown of Jaffrey.
In his later years, Willy found fulfillment in becoming a member of the American Legion and the Knights of Columbus. His commitment extended further as he graciously served as an usher at St. Patrick’s Church in Newcastle. In his spare time, found a creative outlet in art and music, as well as joy in playing golf.
Willy was preceded in death by his grandson, Timothy P. Letourneau, of Rindge, N.H.; son-in-law, Paul Costa of Manchester, N.H.; and his sister, Janet Giroud, of Jaffrey, N.H.
Willy is survived by his children, Bonnie Costa, of Manchester, N.H., Peter (Roberta) Letourneau, of Rindge, N.H., Cynthia (Benjamin) Swan, of Rindge, N.H., David (Kathy) Letourneau, of Jaffrey, N.H., and James (Mandi) Letourneau, of Dublin, N.H. Willy leaves behind 14 beloved grandchildren and 25 great-grandchildren.
Family and friends are invited to calling hours on Monday, June 17, 2024, from 10-11 a.m. at Cournoyer Funeral Home, 33 River St. in Jaffrey, N.H. Willy’s Memorial Service will follow at 11 a.m. in the funeral home chapel, Rev. Wilfred Deschamps, pastor of Saint Patrick Church in Jaffrey, will be officiating.
Burial is taking place immediately following at St. Patrick Cemetery, Hillcrest Road, in Jaffrey, N.H.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made in Archie W. Letourneau Jr.’s name to the Maryknoll Fathers & Brothers: Missionaries of the Catholic Church, P.O. Box 302, Maryknoll, NY 10545-0302 or online at donate.maryknoll.org.
