Kay Laperle

Kathleen “Kay” Laperle, 95, passed into the arms of God at NHC Springfield, Sunday, October 3, 2021, after suffering a massive stroke three weeks prior. Gracious and stoic to the end, she was one tough bird! She was born to Frederick and Elizabeth McConnell Padner on January 14, 1926, in East Angus, Quebec. She graduated from Sherbrooke Hospital School of Nursing in 1946. On June 24, 1950, she married Gerard “Jack” Laperle at Christ Church in East Angus. The marriage certificate read that she was a nurse and spinster, he was a watch maker and bachelor. They had 65 wonderful years together. They moved upstate to Colebrook, New Hampshire from Sommersworth, New Hampshire in the early fifties with Linda, their daughter, and Tuffy, Kay's beloved cocker spaniel. They welcomed their son, Brian in 1956.In 1960 they bought the old Parsons house and turned it into a beautiful home. Later, Jack would become postmaster.

Now, let's talk about Kay. She had a dry sense of humor, and quick wit. She had beautiful red hair. Remember that! She loved to visit with other's and gab on the phone, play cards, listen to music, and entertain. She gave up her career to raise her children. Later working part-time at Coos County Nursing Home. She was an active member of St Stephens Church and Border Ministry, Wonder Workers, American Legion Auxiliary, Tuesday afternoon bridge club, and attended her children’s activities. She loved Wallace Pond in the summer, putting up with wet towels and wet feet, for what seemed like 50 kids. And she was as immaculate housekeeper. Jack retired in 1983 and they traveled far and wide making new friends. Summers in Colbrook, winters in Florida, and always spoiling her grandchildren. In 2014, they relocated to Clarksville, Tennessee to be there with their daughter Linda. She quickly became a member of Holy Trinity Episcopal Church making new acquaintances, and a special friend Daisy. Sadly, Jack passed in 2015, at the age of 93. Then, daughter Linda passed in 2021.She wanted to live by herself in her beautiful home until the end. With help from Lauren, caregivers, and the wonderful ladies at the church, she got her wish. Remember that red hair? She could have a tart tongue and temper of a gas can with a match. Apologize? She followed the Duke's rule, but all things considered, things always got smoothed over. She was a proud and participating member of the greatest generation. She had friends she cherished, and they cherished her for a full 95 years.

She is survived by her son Brian (Tina) Laperle; grandson Zachary (Stephanie) Burton, granddaughters, Lauren (Jeff)Ransdell and Mary Margaret (Jimmy) Burton; and six great-grandchildren. She is preceded in death by her husband Jack, daughter and son-in-law, Linda and Bob Burton, and two brothers, Andy and Lloyd.

A Celebration of Life service will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to either Trinity Episcopal in Clarksville or St. Stephen’s Episcopal in Colebrook, NH.

Please visit Kay’s guestbook at www.sykesfuneralhome.com and share a memory with the family.