Michael H. Descoteau

Michael H. Descoteau CLAREMONT — Michael H. Descoteau, 79, of Claremont, died Monday, July 15, 2019, at Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center in Lebanon, following a period of failing health. He was born in White River Junction, Vermont, on June 21, 1940, the son of George and Gladys (Marquis) Descoteau and had been a longtime Claremont resident. Michael served as Military Police in the U.S. Army from 1961–1965. Michael had been employed by Gerry’s IGA in Claremont as grocery manager. He then worked for Claremont Paper Mill for a short time before being employed as a salesman by Reliable Paper Co. in Claremont. He enjoyed researching genealogy, archery, and was a past president of the New Hampshire Bowman’s Association. Michael was a founding member of NIMMA (National Institute of Modern Martial Arts) and held a black belt in karate. He loved his two dogs, Zeke and Miss Ziggy. Members of his family include his wife Katherine “Kathy” (Wirkkala) Descoteau, Claremont; a daughter Michelle Keenan and husband Michael, Georgetown, Massachusetts; two grandchildren, Ryan Keenan, Elizabeth Keenan; three sisters, Marion Descoteau, Walpole, Anne Fontaine, Claremont, Janet Riley, Concord; two brothers, Thomas Descoteau, Port St. Lucie, Florida, Gerard Descoteau, Manchester; several cousins, nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by a son Michael H. Descoteau. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11 a.m. on Friday, July 19, at St. Mary’s Church with the Rev. Arockia Antony officiating. Friends may call at the Roy Funeral Home, 93 Sullivan St., Claremont, on Friday morning from 9 a.m. until funeral procession leaves for the church. The family suggests that, in lieu of flowers, memorial donations be made to the NHSPCA, 104 Portsmouth Ave., Stratham, NH 03885. You are invited to share a memory of Michael with the family or leave a message of condolence in the family guest book at www.royfuneralhome.com.