We asked NHRS retirees what they have been up to since beginning their retirement, and received many submissions from talented and adventurous retirees. Each Thursday we will post a new submission on our
Facebook and
Twitter pages (hashtag #LovingRetirement) and compile them here. For a better view of an image, click on it to open up a larger version.
We always look forward to receiving new submissions. If you’re interested in sending us a short paragraph or photo of your retirement endeavors, please send to
public_relations@nhrs.org.
“Volunteering for Hardy Country Snowmobile Club as Trail Master managing 80 miles of trails including summer maintenance, two groomers and 10 operators during the winter making our trail system one of the best in the state.”
–James Bilodeau, Londonderry Fire, Retired 2016
“Since retirement in January 2021, I have been working on my BBQ Sauces that I make and am currently in 8 little mom and pop stores, have done several craft fairs and Farmers Markets. My wife and I are currently working on putting a food trailer together that we purchased from the Kiwanis Club in Sheffield Mass.”
–Ted Nutting, NHRS retiree
“Good day! I have been creating art, my art.
This is one out of a number over the past two and a half years. A productive time in a very bad time, having to paint light, airy paintings that gave me the only outlet in a politically, socially and horribly devastating in losing so many and debilitating many more. I have painted a number of paintings in oil on canvas, these are just two.”
–Patti D’Eri van Rooyen, NHRS retiree
“I am the Health Officer for the Towns of Fitzwilliam and Richmond. The position requires that I investigate and get corrected complaints about conditions that impact local public health conditions such as standards of housing or living conditions, an example, failed septic systems, inadequate heat, sanitary conditions, or suspected communicable disease. Local schools are inspected, as well as individuals' homes applying to be licensed childcare homes, or preadoption homes. We follow NH RSA's in conducting our business. It is a position that I find challenging and useful to the communities I serve.”
–Carol Ann Rocheleau, NHRS retiree
.“Since I retired from the City of Berlin, I volunteer at the Mother Marie Rivier Food Pantry here in Berlin. I find it to be very rewarding. I also run a cribbage league for senior citizens, with help from a friend. The elderly enjoy getting out to play and socialize.”
–Lucille Lavoie, NHRS retiree
“I’ve been retired for 18 years, I think. Traveled, tutored at three Sylvan Center, taught watercolor class at local senior center, taken a watercolor class on Zoom during Covid, made 200 masks, quilted, early learner of sashiko, slow stitching, and Kawanda quilting. I live in the Charleston area, near my sister.”
–Rachel Feher, NHRS retiree
“Art died in March 2019 after I retired in July 2018. I designed and built a Post and Beam Arts and Craft home with seven stained glass windows in Northampton, MA. I continue to garden flowers, fruit, and vegetables.
Photo is of Thanksgiving 2021 where I am seated on the right. My son, John, behind me standing works for Harvard Univ. His wife, Karen, is beside him and the rest of the people are from her Winfred side of the family.”
–Marsha Pelletier, NHRS retiree
“I retired in 2007 but continued teaching part time for 6 years (HS Math). I also coached varsity basketball until 2018 at Kingswood, then 2018-20 at Moultonborough Academy.
I have spent a lot of time doing house renovations as well as a lot of landscaping projects. Staying busy has not been a problem.
Golf has been a priority, mostly in the lakes region, but I will travel farther when possible.
Dolly, my yellow lab, travels with me on all of the local trips and errands.
I continue to watch the Boston teams and I go to a few local games each year.
That's about it.
Hi to all of my old friends, retired or not.”
–Dan Chick, NHRS retiree
“Since I retired almost 10 years ago, I have tried different jobs including assistant AV technician at Wentworth by the Sea, facility monitor at the Surf Club in Rye, receptionist at a day care and other types of jobs. I have found my niche as customer service/security for Pease International Airport for the last 2 years. It is a great job for a people person as I am. It’s fun to assist passengers to find their way to the TSA check point and try to get them to relax before their flight. Sometimes I work at the arrival area where passengers can get their long-term parking ticket and answer questions to newcomers to our wonderful state. On occasion I will drive the shuttle bus that picks up passengers from the long-term parking lots and bring the people to their car who arrive back to Pease after their trip. I do like to have the opportunity to try different jobs. It is a part-time job which I do appreciate, and I have a fantastic boss.”
–Betsy Wilson, NHRS retiree
“Although I continue to work on the side as often as able, my new retirement status allows me to race my paraglider, whitewater slalom kayaks, ice yachts and vintage hydroplane. Supporting my family is always fist in line but hey! I have the time now for my own adventures as well. I feel very fortunate to have NHRS and the town of Hanover behind me. Thank you so much. Firefighting was a great career with many rewards.”
Photo: Shovel nose vintage hydro. Blown alcohol with a top speed of 125mph on an oval course.
Valleyfield Canada.
–Jay Whitehair, NHRS retiree
“Since I retired almost 10 years ago, I have tried different jobs including assistant AV technician at Wentworth by the Sea, facility monitor at the Surf Club in Rye, receptionist at a day care and other types of jobs. I have found my niche as customer service/security for Pease International Airport for the last 2 years. It is a great job for a people person as I am. It’s fun to assist passengers to find their way to the TSA check point and try to get them to relax before their flight. Sometimes I work at the arrival area where passengers can get their long-term parking ticket and answer questions to newcomers to our wonderful state. On occasion I will drive the shuttle bus that picks up passengers from the long-term parking lots and bring the people to their car who arrive back to Pease after their trip. I do like to have the opportunity to try different jobs. It is a part-time job which I do appreciate, and I have a fantastic boss.”
–Betsy Wilson, NHRS retiree
“Hi I'm Joseph 'Jodi' Mitchell from Nashua Fire Rescue. I retired 2010. Living the good life in Texas now!”
–Jodi Mitchell, NHRS retiree
“From Engineering to Bluegrass Technician.”
–Tom Richter, NHRS retiree
“I am super excited about the music we are preparing for this upcoming concert (October 23). We just chose music we love and wanted to share. How's that for programming…. ‘Here is music that touches my heart.’ I hope you can join us…. mark your calendar!”
–Nancy Fiske, NHRS retiree
“Since retirement I spent several years teaching for the University of Louisville (Southern Police Institute) and the University of North Florida (IPTM). To get away from the hustle and bustle of Southeast Florida I moved to the North Georgia Mountains where I work PT 2 days a week at The Old Toccoa Farm Golf Course. I play a little golf and keep after 3 acres which keep me in shape at 81. Southern Mountain folks still say Ya’ll and it’s peaceful and home.”
–Charles Hemp, NHRS retiree
“Since retirement I have become involved in the Claremont makerSpace. I took a basic welding class and have become a metal artist. I love to reclaim old discarded metal and give it new life through art.
Here are a couple of my projects.”
–Jo Ann Clifford, NHRS retiree
“My wife and I retired in July 2015. She retired from Education and I from Law Enforcement. Upon retirement we moved to North Carolina where we cared for my mother-in-law until her passing. During this time, we were very involved in volunteering at the local Sheriff’s Department. We were also able to continue traveling. We travelled to Alaska and many other places in the United States. I was able to complete travel to all 50 states. Some other travels included; Dominican Republic, Turks and Caicos, Mexico, Scotland, Ireland, Italy, Portugal and Spain.
After five years in North Carolina we moved to Washington state to be close to our three children. We were also happy to say we were able to start being involved as grand-parents to two (and one on the way) grand-children. When we are at home my wife loves to – paint, read and write. I am involved in the VFW (Veterans of Foreign Wars) and the American Legion. I also volunteer in taking care of horses and fishing.”
–Steve and Pamela Campbell, NHRS retirees
“I've taught myself to enjoy "hiking" in all seasons in order to stay active, but also to enjoy this beautiful State and make a contribution to land conservation. There are so many trails, easy to difficult, that you can find on Town Conservation Commission websites, as well as conservancies like the Society for the Protection of NH Forests.
I joined Bear-Paw Regional Greenways, which has properties in 11 towns east of Concord. I volunteer with them, hike the trails frequently, serve on a committee or two. I have fallen in love with the region, and the whole idea of protecting forests for the future. I highly recommend it! Check out Bear-Paw in Northwood, Five Rivers in Concord or SELT in the southeast. You won't regret it.”
–Cindy Reid, NHRS retiree
“This is me at the top of Cannon Mt on April 6th. I have had a lot fun of skiing there this winter and reconnecting with old friends. I retired in 2020 from DOS and prior to that l had been a long time employee at Cannon. It’s great to be back! (Skiing not working lol) I am looking forward to hiking and kayaking this summer. Retirement is wonderful!”
–Donna Moody, NHRS retiree
“I am still making quilts for The Fisher House of Boston for their fundraisers (www.fisherhouseboston.org)
This quilt raised $5,000 in a raffle last month. All money goes to veterans and their families.
Anyone can help by using Amazonsmile.com and pick Fisher House of Boston as their charity of choice. They support veterans from NH, Maine and VT. We will never do enough for our veterans for the sacrifices they have given for this country."
–Maureen Timmins, NHRS retiree
"I have only retired from the schools as a speech-language pathologist so am still working two part-time jobs to supplement my Social Security and small pension (I was a late starter). I bought a small farm, have dependents, AND had a large solar array installed on my house and barn so I will be working for some time yet! I bought a transit bus (that I used to drive) at a government auction and am planning to gut it and convert it to an RV. I am planning an orchard, nursery, and Christmas tree farm on my unused pasture and also plan to grow kiwiberries, a project from UNH that I am excited about. No laying about or playing golf for me - too many fun and exciting projects to do!”
–Pamela Williams, NHRS retiree
Parade Circle Farm
Barnstead, NH
"I went on my dream trip to Kenya for 10 days earlier this month. This is a photograph of me with the staff and my Maasai guides at Offbeat Ndoto Camp in the lower Maasai Mara.”
–Sue McGinnis, NHRS retiree
“We sold our house in Franconia and moved to the Keys, YAHOOO!!”
–John and Sandy Ireland
"Since retiring 9 years ago, I have worked half time for The Moore Center in Manchester, NH as the Regional Director for Family Centered Early Supports & Services. Additionally, I am the co-Vice President for the Lakes Region Newcomers Club. Beyond that, I am very actively involved in the lives of my granddaughters (children of a military family), reading, swimming, walking, biking, and water skiing."
–Diane Bolduc, NHRS retiree
“Keeping active since my retirement in 2004, I have worked as a consultant to the town of Rye Building Inspector's office. I have enjoyed keeping in touch with the people I knew from my years with DES.”
–Dennis Plante, NHRS retiree
Retirement has provided me with the opportunity to be a full-time children’s author. This is the cover of my newest book, SOME DADDIES, published by Beaming Books, written by me, Carol Gordon Ekster, illustrated by Javiera Maclean Alvarez, which comes out in May 2022, just in time for Father's Day.
This concept picture book celebrates the incredible diversity of modern fathers. And my first piece in Highlights Magazine was in the December 2021 publication.
I am at home writing and revising and meeting with other children’s writers to work on our craft. This has become like another full-time job, but I can make my own schedule and no bells ever ring to tell me when to stop or start! I also can write anywhere. My laptop travels with me! I am so grateful that I can continue communicating with children in this new way. You can find out more about my books and writing life at www.carolgordonekster.com”
–Carol Gordon Ekster, NHRS retiree
“My wife and I live in Rhode Island, on Narragansett Bay. We have joined an outreach program for Haitian immigrants. Much of our time is spent learning Haitian Creole so we can better help newly arrived Haitians acclimate to the US in their own language.”
–Art Johnson, NHRS retiree
"I retired from Portsmouth school system fifteen years ago and have written before about traveling a lot. But the pandemic changed that and have not been out of NH or Maine in the last seventeen months. In March 2020 I was supposed to take my next trip and it was canceled five days before and since then three other planned trips were canceled. Hopefully, next May 15th I will be on a cruise of the Midnight Sun along the coast of Norway. So, what have I done instead well I have read since March 2020 over 180 books, got rid of stuff that should have been thrown out years ago and done a lot of walking on the dead end street where I live as it is a two mile walk each time I do it. Looking forward now to getting my booster shot. Everyone take care."
–Ann Boulanger, NHRS retiree
"Since retirement in 2015 my wife and I have accomplished many bucket list items. One big one was this year 2021. We bought motorcycles, took the course and got licensed. Exploring the back roads of New England this fall has been breathtaking."
–Bruce Chamberlain, NHRS retiree
“This is Wanda. My husband and I have been working hard to make her into a self-contained travel machine. The adventure will begin on October 25 with a week-long trip to Florida to spend a month in Sarasota. We will be back for another adventure in January traveling all around Florida and perhaps working our way to Arizona.”
–Mary Piano, NHRS retiree
“Just finished my 34th year coaching Field Hockey in NH and got my 450th win on October 15.”
–David Rogaki, NHRS retiree
“I joined several heart centered women authors to create this book which we launched Oct 14, 2021 it became an Amazon best seller within hours & was #1 in several categories! I was not sure how my chapter would be received however the many reviews have been so positive & encouraging me to write more. Check it out my chapter is “The Joy of Becoming a Grandmother” … it was difficult to contain my writing to the limited 2000 words! Stepping out of my comfort zone has been a very rewarding experience. I suggest to others to try it.
I hope you get a chance to read the stories as it is a very inspiring book.”
–Su Stacey, NHRS retiree
“I have recently written my 2nd book that is available on Amazon. It is titled “Murder at the Front Door” and it is the true story of the murder of Robert Cushing by off duty Hampton Police Officer Robert McLaughlin. It was recently rated as a #1 new release on Amazon.
After retiring from Salem in 2002, I have still been active as a part-time police officer in Hampton, NH.
–John Tommasi, NHRS retiree
“I am playing in 3 Score softball league in Clearwater, FL. This is a league comprised of seniors 60 years old and over. I am a retired teacher from Claremont, NH. Coincidently Dan Budd who is also a retired teacher from Claremont umpires many of the games. We did not know each other until we met each other at one of our games. He retired one year before I began teaching in Claremont in 1979. Talk about small world.”
–Barry Levine, NHRS retiree
#LovingRetirement
“Since retirement, and especially since last March, I have been using apps like Zoom and Google Meet to attend meetings and volunteer with a variety of organizations including the Alzheimer's Association, Rotary, The Hearing Loss Association, and a local reading tutoring organization. Tutorial sessions are one-on-one, while some meetings have over a hundred participants. These virtual events have actually kept me more involved with local and even distant communities than I ever could have engaged with before the pandemic.”
–Neal Steiger, NHRS retiree
“After 30 years working for the State moved to Savannah, Georgia.
Been here 14 years and love it.
Joined Women’s Club here and I do a lot for charities like homeless and Human Trafficking. Miss my friends and family in New Hampshire.”
–Sandy Anderson, NHRS retiree
"ENJOYING LIFE.
PICTURE #1 FISHING, CAUGHT THIS NICE BASS, AMONG OTHERS...WAKEENA LAKE, DANBURY.
PICTURE #2 REMAIN ACTIVE ALEXANDRIA VOLUNTEER FD, PRIMARY DRIVER #30-RESCUE-#1, GOES OUT 24/7
ALL FIRES AND MEDICAL, & RESCUE CALLS, ALL HOURS DAY OR NIGHT.
"WE STILL MAKE HOUSE CALLS" COVID OR OTHERWISE."
"I retired from Salem PD in 2003 and made good use of the quarantine by writing the great American Novel that can be obtained through Amazon.
You can find it by searching: ‘Danger Zone: The fast and furious world of undercover Drug Cops’"
–John Tommasi, Salem PD 1975-2003
“Since moving to Lakeland, Fl., I’ve been tutoring students on Service Plans. It kept me busy until the pandemic struck and students went to virtual learning.
I also have been taking watercolor classes offered at our clubhouse free of charge. We live in an active 55+ community and love it here in central Florida.”
–Susan Gagne, NHRS retiree
"Sold the house, too much to take care of, the Lot (1/2 acre), the house and be a care giver (for my wife). Because of factors that interfered we needed to wait; my wife went to one daughter's house and I went to another daughter's house. When the smoke cleared went to a retirement community that we liked; we could come and go as we wished and breakfast and lunch was up to us (small kitchen) and dinner served in the dining rooms. Once a week, our two-bedroom apt is cleaned.
THEN it happened, we were quarantined, and a very tight one. And it’s still on with a few things lifted—like hair care etc. There is no company; only Doc./nurses if needed. The good side is our Community with its outstanding operating crew had (so far) no body come down with the virus; that’s all the diff. sections; while other places like ours did, and lots.
It’s obvious there are many reasons that are going astray all over the country—and things look dismal, we are doing OK –have a computer, telephones and lots to be thankful for. We are in our 90’s (and we are told very young acting for the 90’s) and hoping we can get out soon to visit and go to a Friday afternoon movie and one of the three favorite eating establishments…"
–Richard Story, NHRS retiree
“1984 to 2007 Salem New Hampshire police; 2007 Appointed police chief in Alton New Hampshire. Retired 2009, appointed Town Administrator in Atkinson NH. 2011 appointed Deputy Police Chief in Roswell New Mexico; 2013 to current police chief in Roswell New Mexico. And did I mention it's 80 degrees in February here in Roswell NM.....zero humidity with maybe four bad weather days out of 365! No one is sure about the aliens...best to all!!!”
–Phil (NHRS retiree) and Janna Smith
“This is our post retirement trip, 2019. We did 7000 miles pulling the trailer, 2500 miles on the bike. We hit Milwaukee, Rapid City, Kalispell, Yellowstone, Dodge City, and a ton of other stops. Met some awesome people, including many other firefighters also retired who are living full time on the road.”
–Michael Duclos, NHRS retiree
“I was blessed to retire and relocate south just before the pandemic hit. This is how most of my days are spent now!”
–Valerie Kemp, NHRS retiree
“At 76, I was on a Full-Time (6AM to 2:30PM - 5 days a week) IT Support assignment for the 2020 Census in the Concord, NH office from 09/2019 to 11/2020 (the completion of the National Census). We supported office DeskTop & LapTop Windows 10 computer systems as well as field supp ort of iPads & iPhones for NH, VT, ME & Western MA.
Other retired State Employees also worked for the Census - The oldest being 84. Unfortunately, she did not stay long because her doctor suggested against her employment.
My Wife, Linda, was surprised that I could still work a Full-Time job. Linda retired as a RN when the Coronavirus hit - BUT - Is currently working as a "Screener" at the Horse Shoe Pond Clinic.
That may be my last employment of my career unless another interesting assignment comes along (I am not holding my breath - I may die!!!).”
–Michael Royce, NHRS retiree
“I am a volunteer at the Marie Rivier Food Pantry in Berlin. I do some of the shopping as well as wait on people when they come to get food. Once monthly, we get a shipment from the NH Food Bank. I help put away that shipment. I also volunteer for Good Shepherd Parish counting the Church Collection money. This is very rewarding for me. I am Lucille Lavoie. I retired from the City of Berlin in the Finance Office doing the Accounts Payables.”
–Lucille Lavoie, NHRS retiree
“Never doubting I'd spend my retirement in New Hampshire, my husband's engineering job unexpectedly took us to the Kansas City, KS area in Spring of 2019. After being here a few months, my schedule became full with playing in the town band and the church worship team, joining a women's Bible study, and getting involved with neighborhood events. Then Coronavirus. . .
Reviving a previously casual hobby, metal detecting became the perfect pandemic endeavor, that I can do most of the year in this part of the country. We have Civil War history, old parks, and LOTS of farmland. The Oregon, California, and Santa Fe Trails all passed through our town. I haven't yet found the famed "Confederate Gold." But I'm having fun digging coins, farm relics and bullets, and lots of trash. Definitely a win/win: learning more about the history of our new state, meeting new people, and getting some good outdoor exercise!”
–Maryanne Irish
Retired Band Director/Music Teacher, Bow Memorial School
Past President, NH Music Educators Association
"I retired from Portsmouth Police Department on January 1, 1993. While working for a short couple of months as a bailiff for The Rockingham Sheriffs at the County Court House, I was hired by the Town of Brunswick, Maine as their Police chief. I spent 15 years as chief and retired from Brunswick January 1, 2008. During that time and after I was involved with the Board of Trustees at the Maine Criminal Justice Academy, held several positions in the Maine Chiefs of Police Association (including head of training and was also president) and positions with the New England Police Chiefs Association as well as the International Association of Chiefs of Police Association. I went to work in 2008 as a consultant for a Maine company Tideview and worked on several Internal affairs cases and as an interim police chief for 7 Maine police departments in the state and assisted in the hiring process for their new police chief’s. In the spring of 2018, I traded work for our pontoon boat on Pleasant Pond and retired-retired!"
–Jerry A. Hinton, retired Law Enforcement
“Staying safe during the pandemic and enjoying the outside...”
– Bill Rutherford, NHRS retiree
Among other things, I have been regularly hiking year-round with friends, during my retirement. We have a large group of outdoor enthusiasts who love to hit the trails, by foot, snowshoes or skis and do so regularly, usually on Mondays.
Attached are recent photos of me and some of my hiking companions (a few of whom are also former State employees) on Mt Pemigewasset (aka Indian Head).
–Bill Hauser, NHDOT-retired, 2011
"My husband and I have been availing ourselves of the many hiking trails in the Concord area.
I was invited to join my sons and their families in exploring the Ice Castles in North Woodstock.
We're also REALTORS with Coldwell Banker J Hampe Associates."
Barbara Irving Mostue, NHRS retiree
bimostue@jhampe.com
Barbara.Mostue@gmail.com
“Staying safe at home, sitting in 70 degree temp, all’s well in FLA.”
–Dave Soucy, NHRS retiree
“Attached is part of what I have been up to since I retired from the Governor Wentworth Regional School District.”
-Rick Davidson, NHRS retiree
“After fifteen years as a special Education Paraprofessional in the Moultonborough school district, I retired in 2015. Since then I have written a memoir that chronicles my 1967 trek to the base camp of Mount Everest.
More than just an account of a hike to Mount Everest, this is the story of two inexperienced but enthusiastic young adventurers, who, with little planning, or knowledge of what they were getting into, set out on a journey of a lifetime. A journey that would take 40 days and include travel by planes, trains, busses and rickshaws.
While a Peace Corps volunteer serving in India, with my good friend Ken French, I trekked from Kathmandu to Mount Everest in sneakers, a borrowed backpack, and little more than $200 in my pocket, making me one of the earliest Americans to set foot at the 17,800 foot base camp. Unlike Everest adventurers of today, our 1967 hike was unsupported – the robust Everest tourism industry had not yet arrived in Nepal. Our journey took us by ancient Buddhist monasteries, through neatly terraced fields and pristine Himalayan wilderness as we walked in the footsteps of Hillary and the 1963 American Everest expedition. The memoir is based on the journal I kept during the trek and includes incredible never-before-published photos of a Nepal that exists now only in the pages of history books.
Since the publication of My Everest Odyssey in the fall of 2018, I have been promoting the book through talks at libraries and civic organizations throughout Maine and New Hampshire. I also visit schools where I share my adventure and speak about journaling or memoir writing. For more information email: rcstaples@roadrunner.com or go to myeverestodyssey.com
I now reside in Rochester, NH where I continue to enjoy hiking and fly-fishing.
Life is good.”
–Russ Staples, NHRS retiree
“I have been spending some of my time auto racing. I do time trials and autocross events on various tracks in the Northeast. Events occur about every other week from April through October at such tracks as NHMS in Loudon, Club Motorsports in Tamworth, Canaan Motor Club, Thompson CT, Palmer MA, Watkins Glen NY, Pocono PA, Mt Tremblant QC, Mosport ON. Last year was particularly good one as I won my class championship and the British Cup with the COM Sports Car Club. This year was shorter with less away events because of COVID-19.
The attached picture was taken November 1, 2020, at Whiskey Hill Raceway in Palmer MA.”
–Howard Roundy, NHRS retiree
“I retired from the State of NH November 2014 and have enjoyed every minute of the 5+ years of retirement. The hobby I enjoy the most is quilting. I’ve completed 60+ quilts. My guy and I have also traveled quite extensively and I spend as much time with my family as I can. As you can see, I have taken advantage of my free time to the fullest and will continue to as long as I’m healthy enough to do so.”
–Pamela French, State of New Hampshire retiree
(Viking River Cruise Budapest to Amsterdam 2015)
“I have been available for my mother as she gets in her 90's, volunteering at a thrift store doing ironing of their men's shirts, and women's shirts and dresses. Teaching bible school, going to VT to visit son and new daughter-in-law. Seems like I'm busier than when I was working.”
–Ramona Blake, NHRS retiree
“I would love to encourage any NHRS people to look into Azores getaways for an amazing getaway at an amazing price. From Boston 4 1/2 hours to an island archipelago of huge interest. A mild climate, culture, food, history, geology and some nice wine. The Portuguese people love Americans. Just do it!
I'm just amazed by the beauty of this archipelago the Azores. I have to recommend a getaway to a warm but not too hot place that is rich in culture, history, geology and food. Take advantage of this 4 1/2 hours from Logan European vacation. Look at Azores Getaways for some great deals.”
–Mike Didio, NHRS retiree
“One of my goals when I retired was to start coaching basketball again, it was an honor to coach the 7th grade Middle School team. 9-5 record and a final 4 berth is something to be proud of… but more importantly, they were outstanding teammates.”
–Michael Dudash, NHRS retiree
“I retired in 2008, from law enforcement. Since that time, I have enjoyed outdoor activities; hiking, mountain biking, hunting and fishing. I have also started drawing pet portraits in colored pencil and/or ink. I have worked part-time at local deli’s and a farm stand. I spent the last of the summer months at our family home on Granite Lake, recovering from a fractured pelvis.”
“After over four decades as a wildlife biologist in New Hampshire, I have built a collection of my daily diaries. Over three of these decades was as a wildlife biologist at the Fish and Game Department, serving over two decades as this State’s first bear biologist.
I began a weekly blog nearly two decades ago on a website. Then a year ago, I added my own YouTube Channel: New Hampshire Fish and Wildlife.
I am bringing my four decades of diaries back alive recounting what it was like to catch bears, bats, moose, deer and ducks and geese by the thousands. Links are at my website at: nhfishandwildlife.com.”
“In my ‘retirement’, I went to work with Associated Grocers of New England in their security/loss prevention department. I have been there over thirteen and one half years. The pandemic has me working as hard if not harder than any other time in my law enforcement career and given me a new appreciation for the term ‘essential personnel’.
I am still actively involved in girls' fastpitch softball, and serve as an Assistant State Commissioner/Umpire in Chief for NH Babe Ruth Softball, and have been privileged to have worked in seven Babe Ruth Softball World Series tournaments - having the plate assignment for several national championship games. I remain active in two security industry professional associations, the Hillsborough County Law Enforcement Association, and am an elected Ward election official in Manchester. I am also the current Chair of the Concerned Taxpayers of Manchester organization, and am an elected state committee member to the NH State Republican Committee from the Manchester City Republican Committee.
In my ‘spare’ time, my wife and I try to keep active and current with the activities of our four daughters and their families.”
–Jim Gaudet, Group II Retiree 2007
“My wife and I have been enjoying our motorcycles. Yard work keeps me busy and it’s been a great summer enjoying the pool. Retirement is the best life to live as a retired fire dispatcher from Londonderry NH. Working long hours and missing family events. So great to have the leisure time to enjoy life.”
–Jerry Johnson, NHRS retiree
“I began looking for something to do in retirement before I retired in 2004. I lined up a consulting position with the town of Rye Building Department to take care of all matters related to septic systems. I am still actively working and plan to continue until my 80th birthday.”
–Dennis Plante, NHRS retiree
“I crochet while my husband has control of the remote to watch his sports! My Facebook page is: Crocheted Items by Lynn P”.
–Lynn Poire, NHRS retiree
“My passion is card making, and I’ve been doing more of it since retiring. I’ve taught some card making classes at Old orchard Beach/Saco adult Ed, but now with Covid I’m offering card making kits instead. For my birthday, my daughter developed a website for me to sell my cards. It’s not live yet as I’m not as tech savvy as I’d like, but eventually I will sell them as Linden Notes.”
–Faith Garnett, NHRS retiree
“What I have been up to.....Mainly motorcycle riding and Geocaching.
Riding, of course, is restricted to the warmer months of Spring, Summer & Fall here in NH. And yes, I have seen bikes out in the winter months as well, but that's just not for me. I don't care for the frigid air blowing against me and I especially don't like the salt eating away at my bike. I had my previous bike’s frame literally break. And that bike was the only one that I had ridden in the winter months.
So, in 2014, I discovered the world of GeoCaching (geocaching.com or YouTube some videos). I enjoy it a lot. It gets me out of the house to travel around some and to walk a lot. True, I do geocache more in the warmer months still, but I do enjoy many treasure seeks in the winter too.
I'm healthier because of it too. My blood pressure is lower, my blood sugar is under control, I've built up my cardio and I really enjoy searching for those hidden little containers.
And, I've found so many interesting items in the caches. Coins (US & foreign), and collectibles galore (i.e.: Walt Disney pins, Pathtags, travelling 'Geo Coins' & tags, and sooo much more).
Not to mention the people and places I've seen. GREAT people. And fascinating places. There are millions of geocachers and millions more of geocaches in every state, every country & every continent on earth, and even one on the ISS in space (no, you can't go get that one unless you're an astronaut).
Did you know there are over 30 maintained hiking trails in Concord alone? And hundreds of "hidden" caches in Manchester alone? "Hidden" means nothing is ever buried, and many are "hidden" in plain sight. You just don't realize what you see.
You can even earn patches (see pic, from Maine) and coins to keep.
It's fun! I hope many retirees will look into it. Basic membership is free. All you need is a GPS or smart phone. Cachers come from every profession. Ages are from kids, to people in their 90's. I've met so many amazing people, both on the hunt and at organized events. So ENJOY!"
–Mike Hildreth, NHRS retiree
“I retired in 2014 after working as the Computer Technician for the Merrimack School District, having previously retired after 20 years from the US Army as a musician. Since retiring, we have traveled quite a bit.
In May of 2014, we sold most of our belongings and booked one-way passage on the QM2 for Germany. We lived on the island of Fehmarn in a camper for two years. During that time, we visited Berlin, Denmark, Italy, Spain and Malta and also traveled back and forth to Germany many times to visit family and friends.
We have since returned to the US and reside in Virginia, but have many more places on our bucket list.”
–Tom Crombie, NHRS retiree
“Since retiring, my wife Laurel and I have been running our mustard business; Ruth's Mustard, LLC. In 2018, we were awarded the SCORE Small Business Champion, one of two from NH. Our gourmet mustards are in stores throughout the state and available online. We believe in sharing, so 10% of our profits go to feed the needs of others. We've recently teamed up with Brimstone, who is also a SCORE Small Business Champion, former professional wrestler, food critic, comic book character and radio host of The Grindhouse Radio and who was voted Personality Of The Year on Long Island, NY for a Celebrity Mustard: Maple Habanero #SLATHERSOME. All profits made from the sale of this limited edition mustard will be donated to the St. Jude Children's Hospital.
So retirement has meant just doing something different that's been fun - meeting new people, sharing time with my wife, going new places, making new friends.
So feel free to supplement my ‘mailbox money’ by visiting our website, Facebook or Instagram page and buy a jar for someone you love.”
“As a 65-year-old retiree, I keep myself fit and occupied by running ultra-distance trail races. Last August, I competed in the Leadville, Colorado 100 mile trail race, an iconic competition with a 30 hour time limit. The race starts at 4 AM at an altitude of nearly 10,000 feet and the trail crests three 12,000 peaks. I also competed in many other trail races across the US throughout the year, with varying distances of 13 miles (half marathon), 20, 25 and 50K (kilometers).
This year I have already run three trail half marathons. My running goals for the year are to compete in trail races of these distances: half marathon (done), 25K, 50K, 50 miles and 200 miles. For the record, I am a Stage 4 cancer survivor and I run with a hip replacement and a smile on my face.”
– L. Mark Kibler, NHRS retiree
“Since retiring I have traveled to Vietnam, Israel, Peru, India and Nepal. Also, three times to New Zealand. These photos were taken of me by a fellow traveler in India.”
–Roseanne Kramer, NHRS retiree
“Since fully retiring on May 9th, 2019, I packed up my personal belongings and moved to Mesa, AZ via Tulsa, OK. In Tulsa, went to high school graduation of my third grandchild. The love of my life met me in Tulsa and we drove to Mesa, AZ. On August 23, 2019, I married the love of my life.
Working on getting healthy. Swimming and hiking these days. Loving Arizona...but I do miss family and friends.”
–Elizabeth Duncklee Sanborn, NHRS retiree
"A picture of me on the deck of our Ormond Beach apartment during the March Coronavirus outbreak. No better place to be when in lockdown!"
“After my 2011 retirement from NHTI Community College in Concord, my interests have revolved around adjunct teaching, travel, family and leisure activities. I continued to teach a fall course in the Computer Engineering Technology department at NHTI through 2018. My wife Laura and I have been spending winters in San Diego visiting family since 2012. Our 6 grandchildren live in both NH and SD. Last summer we made a cross-country road trip through 15 states and 5,500 miles covering more northern states. I help plan an annual luncheon for over 100 retirees of the old ATT Bell System where I worked for about 30 years. Golf and biking are leisure activities I do in both NH and San Diego.”
–Sterling Hough, NHRS retiree
"Rug hooking by Grace Collette," NHRS retiree.
“Hello from sunny Northern Georgia with the Blue Ridge Mountains and the famous Lake Lanier. My husband Michael and I retired here five years ago and one of the first, and best, things I did was join the Forsyth County Women’s Club. I am part of their Community Service group where I volunteer to help the elder, children and animals during the year. I’m also the Co-Chair of “See Georgia,” one of the interest groups of the Club and last year was asked to be on the Board as the Club’s Interest Group Coordinator overseeing 25 Interest Groups. We have toured GA and surrounding states on our motorcycle, and also belong to the GA Street Rod Assoc. with our antique 1940 Ford. Life is good here and you should ‘Come on down Y’all.’”
-Charlene Tagan Magoon, retired from NHES – Legal Section
“Living a good life at North Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. Great weather, and live in a beautiful townhouse a block from the beach. My dream has come true!! Feeling lucky plus my pension!”
–Debra Willey, NHRS retiree
“It was hard leaving my career in law enforcement and Major Crime Unit of NH State Police and the fine people I served with.
But 1992 led to the next phase in my life, one in its own ways as rewarding in that I still served the citizens of Florida, be it hospital security, court security or TSA after 9/11.
As I enter the twilight years, I realize I have been blessed for sure and am able to travel and return to my native State of New Hampshire occasionally and be with family.
Wishing all State Employees a most wonderful year with many more returns.
Photos include on the job, wildlife around our home, Colorado high trip, concert audience of late. As well as my four generations of family, and kayaking across Lake Tahoe. I have slowed down immensely now.”
–Bob Adams, NH State Police, retired 1992
“I retired in 2013 and spend a lot of time in Florida with my husband Paul. I am living a fun-filled life with friends who dance, play tennis, golf, bridge and pickleball. I am on the right in this photo under the American flag after winning a silver medal in a recent Pickleball Tournament. I am the current President of a 500 member Pickleball Club. Someone wrote ‘A day without Pickleball would not kill me, but why risk it?’”
–Marie Knowlton, NHRS retiree
“I have gotten back to my quilting, I make quilts for different organizations. Every year the Fisher House in MA gets a very special quilt to raffle in their fundraiser (for their website, search Fisher House Foundation). It’s a place where Veterans and their family can go when the veteran is in need of medical help.
I have made quilts for Operation Santa Claus to raise money for the children at Christmas. I also made a quilt for my daughter’s church to raffle this past year.
This first quilt raised $3,420.00 for the Veterans. The Fisher house cares for Veterans from ME, NH and VT also."
–Maureen Timmins, NHRS retiree
“Since I have retired... I have been working as a Chaplain and Volunteer Coordinator for Cornerstone Hospice. This is the best work I have ever done - it provides opportunities for:
Challenges,
Learning,
Contemplation,
Compassion,
Emotional and intellectual growth,
And learning how to die,
And how to live.”
–Nancy Nicolazzo, NHRS retiree
“I retired in 2012 and have been snow-birding in the Florida Panhandle since. Last year brought a new dimension to our winters because we winter in Mexico Beach, Florida. Mexico Beach, known as Mayberry by the Sea, was ground zero for Hurricane Michael, a category 5 which destroyed our lovely home away from home. Last year we wintered 70 miles away from Mexico Beach and volunteered in areas where we were able.
This year luckily the condo we rent in Mexico Beach was back online. We were more than happy to return to this quiet little city, even as everything around is in the middle of rebuilding. This year we have been volunteering with Florida Audubon and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. We help post protected critical wildlife areas. We have met and worked with many wonderful people who are committed to their work ensuring the natural environment is preserved. This area of Florida remains primarily natural, unspoiled and is an important bird habitat. Mexico Beach is part of the area known as the ‘Forgotten Coast.’
Here we are after a cool day of posting several miles in a Critical Wildlife Area. The beautiful white quartz sand squeaks when you walk on it.”
–Sharyn Peightell, NHRS retiree
“I retired in 2008 and I’ve returned to an old love of mine- playing and singing and composing music. I’m working on my third CD of original songs, I sing with the Rock My Soul choir out of South Berwick and I regularly jam and play with other musicians. It’s a wonderfully engaging second act!”
–Chris George, NHRS retiree
“Since retiring, we have moved to Arizona where I have continued to do some teaching in Medical Laboratory Science programs. I have also continued to work with the National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Science (NAACLS) as a volunteer, committee member, and speaker. We miss our family, especially our new grandson (our only grandchild), and friends in New Hampshire, but we are making the most of the weather here! In particular, I love spending as many hours as possible in the saddle with my Tennessee Walking Horse, Cisco.”
–Andrea Gordon, NHRS retiree
“Since retirement, we have traveled quite a bit-- Italy, Spain, Portugal, Slovenia, Croatia, Greece, Russia, Turkey, Israel, etc. All have been wonderful experiences and opened our eyes to a world we had only read about before.
Additionally, we rent a place in Florida most winters so we can enjoy quality time with our sons and grandchildren who live there. (I know, we did it all backwards-- we were supposed to move to sunny south and they stay in the cold north but we BOTH love New Hampshire and have no plans to abandon our state.)
Free time, when we have it, we donate to a few local places. Jack subs and is tutoring a bit. I volunteer at a nursing home and do Hospice care. All in all a very full life and a happy one.”
–Helen A. Rode (NHRS retiree) and Jack M. Rode
“I retired in 2013 after 35+ years operating Lakeport Dam and other State Dams in the Lakes Region for Water Resources, then DES. Loved my work and staying busy. One of my latest projects involved converting New Hampshire made 1974 Rokon RT 340 t (built in Keene, NH), to 48 volt electric motorcycle. It has 4 - 12 volt batteries, a 10 hp electric DC motor, and solid state controller that can be programed. I have been as fast as 50 mph but that hurts range. At a reasonable speed (40 mph or less) and few hills 30+ miles is attainable. Acceleration is quick and riding is very quiet. Picture was taken at Bike Show Laconia.”
–Bob Fay, NHRS retiree
“I retired in 2007, after 39 years of teaching social studies, mostly at Lebanon HS. For the last 10 years or so, I've been looking at old newspapers, primarily on microfilm at the NH State Library and the Vermont Archives. They have several weekly papers that covered my hometown, Orford, and Lebanon, where we've lived since 1971. It has amazed me how much family and town history can be gleaned from the items in those papers.
The other major project is transcribing some of about 100 Pease family diaries - I've got about 40 done so far and am up to 1964. Most belonged to my father and mother, chronicling daily life on the Pease hill farm in Orford.
In both projects, there is a lot of material of no current interest but in both there are also some gems and together have given me a much clearer picture of my family and community. The NH State Library has been particularly helpful and has most if not all of the daily and weekly papers published in the state, some from before the Civil War. Stop in and see them!”
–Art Pease, NHRS retiree
"My wife, JoAnn, and I have been spending our retirement quietly training our Dalmatian, Lady, for obedience and rally trials. In December, she completed her third WCRL level 3 championship and recently she earned her CDSP open class title. Lady is a certified therapy dog who had earned her AKC THD title and, until the Covid-19 pandemic broke out, made weekly visits to local facilities for the aging. Everything is suspended right now but we are looking forward to resuming our trialing and therapy visiting when the pandemic has passed."
–Gary McKenney, NHRS retiree
“I am enjoying retirement, and have enjoyed traveling! My husband and I have been to Peru, Ecuador, Galapagos, Greece, Australia, and South Africa. Here I am at Victoria Falls! After retiring in 2005, I worked as an LNA part time...we are Florida snowbirds.”
–Jane Haley, NHRS retiree
“Since I retired, I did some subbing at the high school I worked at the first couple of years while helping in the care of my elderly mother. The past 1 and 1/2 years I have been enjoying raising a collie pup with my husband, continued care for my mother, and was just accepted to be a mentor for CASA NH. I am very excited to begin the training and working with foster adolescence.
Still waiting for my husband to retire so we can enjoy some traveling and a move to warmer climates in the winter or permanently. We shall see!”
–Anne Bartlett, NHRS retiree
“I retired from the Timberlane School district in June 2003. In February 2004 my husband, daughter, I and our cat, Fenway, moved to Maui. It was a dream we worked toward & planned for, for almost 10 years. As beautiful as New England is in the Fall, the Winter was just too cold, the Spring too rainy and the Summer too unpredictable. So we packed our bags, shipped some boxes and said goodbye to New Hampshire. Since moving here, I’ve kept busy with part time tutoring, volunteering, the beach, and adopted 2 more cats. We watch every Red Sox & Patriots game, get lots of visitors and our grandkids love to come! It’s a wonderful life and we’re so grateful we were able to make this move.”
–Jane Brown, NHRS retiree
“I have been traveling a great deal since I retired in 2009. I always try to take a photograph with local police officers in my travels. Attached are two gendarmes in Paris in May, 2019 in front of Notre Dame Cathedral. And the other photo is from January, 2020 at my son's wedding in Miami Beach, FL.
I had to move away from New Hampshire a few years ago to be closer to my family in the New York City area. Wishing all my brothers and sisters in blue a safe passage through these turbulent times where we are all being tested like never before. And here's a future toast to one and all when we can finally put COVID-19 away for good.
Be careful out there, now more than ever.”
–Len DiSesa, Portsmouth PD Deputy Police Chief, Ret.
Former NH State Representative
“I am currently living in the southeast part of Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. I play a lot of golf (so far on 48 different courses) and spend many warm days at a nearby State beach (swimming, walking and reading). I also work part-time doing course management at one of my local golf courses, Arrowhead Country Club.”
–Joe Goodhue, NHRS retiree
“Shortly after retiring from NHTI, a group of 6 of us locals began a non-profit, 'Love INC of the Lakes Region,' to organize and empower local Christian churches to help people in need.
We are three years old now and have 17 churches in the Lakes Region cooperating through a clearinghouse call center.
We have helped many people in the last three years and look forward to helping many more in ways that transform lives and the community in the Name of Jesus Christ.
I have also been serving in a local food pantry 2-4 days a week in the mornings. This too, is a very rewarding experience.
I feel very fortunate to be retired and available to serve in these and many other ways and grateful to June, my loving and supportive wife of 38 years. Praise God!”
–Bob Lavoie, NHRS retiree
“Every day a new adventure with my two granddaughters, Penelope and Rory!”
–Mary Ann Boucher, NHRS retiree
“Since retirement, some 20 years ago, I have had 14 jobs – all involved driving. I am on my last one now, it's driving a trolley. We do scenic tours and parties of all kinds…”
–Jim Prendergast, NHRS retiree
“We moved to South Carolina. Here we are at a picnic with the Red Sox Group. The shirt says ‘We might live in South Carolina but we keep our Sox in Boston.’”
–Bob Alves, NHRS retiree
“I was able to retire at 58 years old after 37 full-time years with NHES. I have since remained working part-time with NHES in a different location and have been there for five years now.
I volunteer weekly at the Merriman House, a nursing home associated with Memorial Hospital in North Conway, and have also been active with the American Legion Auxiliary in Bridgton, Maine.
In my spare time, I continue working out at the local gyms and have taken up golf again.
Never a dull moment in the White Mountains.”
–Aldéa D’Alfonso, NHRS retiree
“Love, love, love being retired. Since June I have been caring for my 90 year old dad, spending time with my granddaughter (Annie) teaching her sign language no less- she’s 2 years old, and planning a trip to the Everglades and Key West. Attended my daughter’s wedding in New Orleans - yes, she lives there! My son-in-law wants to retrace the Natchez Trace from Natchez, Mississippi to Nashville, Tennessee (sort of like the Blue Ridge Highway) so that’s on the short list for this year. My hubby and I are doing all 50 state capitals and have completed 13 so far. I also make an effort to stay in shape walking a peaceful three miles every day I can.”
–Sue Trudel, Family & Consumer Science Educator
"This is me on Central Square in Keene at a protest rally. Since I retired in 2008, I've become a Community Interfaith Chaplain, organized workshops around New England and Costa Rica for women, became a founding member of the Monadnock Progressive Alliance, have become a care partner for my husband who has dementia, and most importantly, welcomed our now 7 year old grandson to the family. And somehow, even now, it all works!"
–D’Vorah Kelley, NHRS retiree
“I was in IT for 42 years, with 2 years for the State of NH. My best position was 10 years as IT Director / Systems Analyst / Programmer for the Concord School District. I liked that job best because I could solve “real user needs” without interference of committees. After leaving the school district because of budget cuts, I completed large computer contract jobs in Boston. I did retire in January 2009 for 9 months. I am not really “the retirement type.” I have had a few “part-time” jobs since September 2009. My current retirement job since September 2019 is a full-time (40-hours a week) IT support position for the 2020 Census team that supports NH, VT, ME & part of MA that is expected to last until September 2020. My "retirement jobs" help support our past 34 cruises - mostly in the Caribbean.
Fortunately, my wife and I have good health. Linda is still working as a nurse at 75.
When we are not cruising the seas, we are cruising in our 2005 Chrysler Crossfire. Our NH plate is 'OUR-FUN.’”
–Michael Royce, NHRS retiree
“I’m loving retirement so much and having lots of fun. I work part-time at Market Basket in Portsmouth, New Hampshire. I am a bagger there and love it very much. It’s a great job, gets me out of the house and I meet people and love it.”
–Eddie McLaughlin, NHRS retiree
“Sailing to the Bahamas! Also sailing to the Caribbean and all along the east coast.”
–Doris Seastream, NHRS retiree
“Walk the beaches of New Hampshire and sometimes Maine…”
–Patricia Townsend, NHRS retiree
“After a 27 year fire service career, Mike Hoffman of the Durham-UNH Fire Department took his family on a retirement tour of Europe. They drove through seven countries spending at least a couple weeks in most of them. His new passion now is running the Stone Church Music Club in Newmarket with his wife Cheryl. ‘She’s a saint, she’s always putting up with my antics,’ says Hoffman.”
–Mike Hoffman, NHRS retiree
I retired from the Nashua School System in 2007 after 20 years teaching science at Elm Street. Since then I have written 2 historical fiction novels. The Road to Lattimer was published August 2019 by Sunbury Press. Information on my novels can be found on my website (www.virginiaraffertybooks.com). I am currently living in Aiken, South Carolina.
–Virginia Rafferty, NHRS retiree
“Kayaking on Lake Umbagog, Errol, NH.”
–Dick and Carolyn Aube, NHRS retirees
“In addition to travel and working on a contract basis for a couple of state agencies to assist with their rulemaking, I’ve been showing my American Saddlebred Gelding, Sweatin’ Bullets. This picture is of him winning the Adult Pleasure Championship at the Eastern States Exposition horse show this year. I have also become a member of the Sutton Conservation Commission and volunteered at the election polls in November.”
–Barbara Hoffman, NHRS retiree
“After retirement, I was ordained as an Interfaith Minister in Portland, Maine. More recently, I have been actively involved in the Monadnock Progressive Alliance's leadership team.”
–D’Vorah Kelley, NHRS retiree
“After retiring from my teaching position as a Special Education teacher in Rochester, NH, I began volunteering with other civic activists in NH and across the country for the passage of a 28th Constitutional Amendment to get excessive and secret money out of politics. We are concerned that federal and state legislators now ignore the needs of those of us in the working class, as they now cater to elite donors and multinational corporations, like the pharmaceutical industry.
This past June, we were proud to be a part of NH becoming the 20th state to officially call on Washington to initiate a constitutional amendment to protect our Democracy. I have organized a NH grassroots group of activists, NH Voters Restoring Democracy, and if you share our concerns about the insecure state of our Democracy, and what that means for our children, please go to VotersRestoringDemocracy.org and Americanpromise.net/contactcongress to learn about our work. Then please help us to flood the offices of Congressional legislators with e-mails from constituents from all over the country, all calling for the passage of this 28th amendment. Follow & share us on Facebook @nhdemocracy.”
–Corinne Dodge, NHRS retiree
“Since retiring from teaching 11 years ago, Larry Frates has become the Artist-in-Residence at the historic Belknap Mill in Laconia, NH, where he continues to create Watercolors, Caricatures and perform Magic.”
– Larry Frates, NHRS retiree
“Since retiring as a speech therapist in the Manchester School District I have chosen to volunteer in three major areas. Singing with my church choir @ Bethany Covenant Church, singing with the Elliot Hospital Associates Voluntaires and joining OLLI (Osher Lifelong Learning Institute).
The Voluntaires go to senior locations and offer a concert with songs that stir the memories and hearts of many. We are about 30 members who love bringing some joy to others through music. I enjoy setting up the locations where we go to sing. OLLI helps keep my brain active and engaged as a senior. There are so many learning opportunities from around the state to take part in. Serving on various committees helps me offer other skills that I have. OLLI provides those 50+ opportunities to meet new friends, learn for the fun of it, travel and volunteer.
The connection between the Voluntaires and OLLI is that they are both volunteer groups run by volunteers!
Life since retiring has provided additional opportunities for me to remain active, productive and happy.
Attached are three pictures. The Voluntaires and OLLI. My husband Jay and I attended and OLLI class with the Army Air National Guard in Concord. An amazing class where we heard about their many rescue missions in NH, saw their equipment.
Enjoying retirement!”
– Janet Gagne, NHRS retiree
“Spent time volunteering in the Caribbean with a Museum and my faith community there; took two months to travel around the US by myself, visiting friends, national parks, and enjoying regional highlights; volunteer driver for local agency that helps other seniors with transportation needs; volunteer at a Family Center; assist friends and family who are nearby in many ways; use computer to stay in touch with distant friends and family.”
– Julie Swan, retired in 2003
“I have been enjoying hunting and raising and training Labrador puppies.”
–Jim Magee, NHRS retiree
“I retired from DOT (Hampton tolls) Jan 2002. Not doing anything stressful but trying to stay young and healthy is a challenge.”
–Jim Colbert, NHRS retiree
“After spending almost 15 years as a trustee for the Retirement System and 41 years on the police force, I retired and started a lobster business in Portsmouth. I have never regretted even for a day my decision. During the winter months, I still travel around the country speaking on retirement issues at conferences (in warm climates) and am now a trustee for the NH Municipal Retirement System (PFPOPE) which is a 457 plan and much smaller than NHRS.
I also work part-time in the winter for the Strafford County Sheriff’s Dept. doing polygraph exams. I now have plenty of time to do all the things I want without a daily schedule. If you are thinking about retirement "try it you'll like it!!!”
–Dean Crombie, NHRS retiree
“I retired as the Clerk of the Lebanon District Court in 2000. Having re-located to Florida that same year, I am now in my 18th year of a new career as a Real Estate Broker Associate in Cape Coral, FL. It's hard to believe I have been in this field longer than I was in the Lebanon District Court!
My husband, a retired Vermont State Police Detective Sgt., now owns and runs his own business here. Fortunately for us, our two children and their kids reside here as well.
In our spare time, we like to golf, travel and spend time with our family. I'd like to say we miss the New England weather, but that is definitely not the case!! If any of you are contemplating a move to the sunny south, I highly recommend our SW Florida area, most particularly Cape Coral.
Happy retirement everyone!! Stay warm!”
–CC Stone, NHRS retiree
I’m enjoying my retirement by publishing fiction. After seven years as an adjunct and eleven as a professor of writing at Nashua Community College, I finally have the time to write. I’ve published four novels and more than a dozen short stories since retirement. My novels "Kaleidoscope," "Baby Blues," "Catch .net," and "Caught in the Middle" are happily ever after sweet romances, not erotica.
My short stories have taken me into the circus, outer space, erotic revenge, vampires, real life, and more. They are: “Batman and Robin” in What’s Your Superpower?, “No Warrior Left Behind” in War Paint, “Little Girl” in Art Inspires Words, “Before the Ball Dropped” in Kissing Midnight, “Secret Santa” in Christmas Past, “Bridges Burned” in Vague Book, “Crazy About Her” in Crazy About Love, “Falling for You” in Falling for Crazy, “At First Sight” in Craving One Night, “Little Green Men” in Moonstruck, “Arresting” in TTYS, “Turned” in A Deadly World: Vampires in New York, “Vive le Resistance” in A Deadly World: Vampires in Paris, “Emilia” in Dracula’s Brides, “Purgatory” in Insane Insomnia, and “Hoarder” in Crazy Fools.
In 2019, I have two YA novels being published: Bully and Bubble Gum Love and several more short stories. You can follow me on Amazon to keep up with my publications, and follow and like me on Facebook (AuthorRitaDelude).
In addition, I’ve been quilting and completing quilts for my four children and their spouses and nine grandchildren. Retirement is great when you have things you love to do!
–Rita Delude, NHRS retiree
I have been retired for 6 years. In that time, I have traveled to Alaska for 6 weeks, remodeled my kitchen, vacationed in France, participated in the birth of 3 of my 5 grandchildren, been to Disney, taken more photographs and knit more sweaters than I can count. I babysit for two of my grandchildren one day a week. I am so fortunate to be close to my family.
–Evalyn Maghakian, NHRS retiree
“Retirement has provided me with the opportunity to be a full-time children’s author. This is the cover of my newest book, which came out first in Dutch and is coming out in Korean, Chinese and Arabic. Last October, I attended the Strawbery Banke Authors’ Festival which was particularly sweet because I used to bring my fourth graders there each year for a field trip. I also do school and Skype visits and bookstore events. But mostly I am at home writing and revising and meeting with other children’s writers to work on our craft. This has become like another full-time job, but I can make my own schedule and no bells ever ring to tell me when to stop or start! I also can write anywhere. My laptop travels with me! I am so grateful that I can continue communicating with children in this new way.”
–Carol Gordon Ekster, NHRS retiree
“Since 2012, retirement has been full, with a variety of service projects at home and in foreign lands. One particular rural Nepal school has been my primary passion, where I continue to return: 2013, 2015, and again 2017. Below are pictures of my work with my teacher-sister and teacher-colleague, having been trapped for 5 weeks during and after a major 7.8 earthquake and 43 aftershocks. Over 8,500 people died. We three found remote people, handed out food and supplies, and opened the safe areas of the school to all the children while teachers and parents were occupied in setting up makeshift tents or tin huts in which to live. We returned two years later having written a Rotary grant proposal for a library and training for all the teachers and students. Soon we will return for our 4th stay to carry on our next phase of working with teachers.”
–Joan Holcombe, NHRS retiree
“Trip to Europe was wonderful. Switzerland, Scotland, England, and France.”
-John D’Entremont, NHRS retiree
“Since retiring from Goffstown PD, I owned and operated a custom picture framing business for 18 years. When medical issues took place for both of us, we moved to a warmer climate in that of Florida. I drove a school bus for 7 years and finally retired. After 2 more moves, we finally settled in a very active 55+ community. I cook for our community breakfasts, play some golf, and card games, one of them being cribbage. I developed a hobby of putting together cribbage pegs which I offer for sale locally and on eBay. In late winter-early spring, I also compete in local county Senior Game Olympics having won medals in fishing and rifle shooting.”
-Barry Morgrage, NHRS retiree
“My wife and I took a year to RV across the US. We are focused on visiting our National Parks.
The photos were taken in Bryce Canyon National Park, at the summit of Mt. Lassen in Lassen Volcanic National Park and at Reflection Lake in Mount Rainer National Park.
We have visited 23 National Parks in the last 7 months. We have plans to visit 7 more before we finish our year in the RV.”
–Don Rudolph, NH State Police retiree
“I am Pam Stohrer, from Hillsborough, and in June 2018 I retired after 42 years of teaching public school music.
Here’s what I’m up to:
- I play therapeutic Celtic Harp at four area medical facilities every week
- I play parties, funerals, weddings, conferences.....lots of people are interested in harp music!
- Most importantly, I'm a graduate of the University of Vermont's Larner College of Medicine training program for End-of-Life Doulas, and will soon be setting up a practice in the Concord area.
I could not be happier to be retired, and my dog thinks it’s pretty swell, too.”
-Pam Stohrer, NHRS retiree
“Since retiring from teaching, I have moved to central Florida to be with family. I have since contracted tutoring gigs through the Learning Resource Center. They are a United Way organization that services students in private schools who have need of Special Ed services through an IEP. So I continue to use my special education experience.
I am fortunate to live in a community that has a variety of activities available to us seniors. I have been taking watercolor classes, something I never anticipated. It has become a wonderful activity and outlet for my latent art talent.”
–Susan Gagne, NHRS retiree
“Since retiring in 2013, I have taken up adaptive sports. I began with skiing in 2015 and have also tried rock climbing, kayaking, and cycling. I love the outdoors and have found a new passion in adaptive sports.”
–Wendy Katsekas, NHRS retiree
“My husband and I were able to spend September and October 2018 in Germany and Italy visiting family and friends! We also toured castles, hiked in the Alps, visited ancient ruins and many beautiful cathedrals including the Duomo in Firenze and the Duomo of Madonna di Loreto.
The photos are of Trauttmansdorff Castle in Merano, Italy, Neuschwanstein Castle, and Lake Garda in northern Italy.
We feel very blessed to have good health, wonderful family and friends, and perfect weather for our trip. We also were safe and protected by military presence in cities that we visited.”
–Laurine Parker, NHRS retiree
“This is me accepting the Spirit of NH Award on behalf of the CRVNA (Concord Regional Visiting Nurse Association) volunteers.”
–John Mark Hamer, NHRS retiree
"Since my retirement, I have been writing poetry. Some of my writing has been about Vietnam veterans. My poem "Bobby's Story" won the Reader’s Choice Award in one of the most prestigious poetry contests in the country. To find the poem, with an audio button at the top of the page, visit rattle .com and search "Bobby's Story."
–Jimmy Pappas, NHRS retiree
“After retiring from Hampton Police Mounted Patrol, I found Mounted Patrols around the world. This is in The Old Town of Prague, Czech Republic.”
–George Bateman, NHRS retiree
“After retiring from the Amherst School District after teaching for 33 years, it seemed I was not quite done with the field of education! I pursued a 2nd career as an Academic Coach and have been working the past 5 years coaching high school students in the Concord region. My book, The Learning Curve; Navigating the Road to High School Success, was published in June of 2018.
Along with meeting with students in a high school setting, I also provide private coaching sessions for middle and high school students, as well as virtual coaching sessions for distant college students. In addition, I teach a 12-hour summer course I developed, designed to help incoming freshmen prepare for the rigors of high school, as well as a 1-hour presentation for parents on guiding your child along a path of improved academic performance. For more information I can be reached at thelearningcurvecoach@gmail.com”
– Alice Giarrusso, NHRS retiree
“I am in my 19th year of retirement after 27 years and 3 months with the Keene Police Department. I became unstable in my employment history for the first 15 years of retirement; because I could. I became politically active at the local level as a city councilor and afterwards worked quietly behind the scenes on issues I cared about. My wife and I have traveled around the world, most recently having visited China. We were able to return to Vietnam to relive my youth. The photo attached shows us on the Great Wall of China near Beijing. I am now fully retired and living the dream.”
– Fred Parsells, Keene PD 1973-2000
“I retired from the Nashua Police Department March 1st, 2009, and have been employed as a Public Safety Officer at Rivier University in Nashua since 2010. I enjoy working at Rivier University very much. I want to extend my best wishes and regards to all my fellow retirees. I wish you all good health and happiness in our well-earned retirement.”
–Jim Casey, NHRS retiree
“Retirement is great! Been traveling around the country on our Harley and enjoying our wonderful grandchildren.
Excuse the brevity, I'm retired and don't have time for long responses.”
-AJ Tardif, NHRS retiree
“Visiting my niece in Florida.”
–Robert Vorce, NHRS retiree
“I work for ATF now, in the Firearms & Ammunition Technology Division. In my free time… I go to the vineyards of Virginia and Maryland, and travel a lot for both work and fun.”
– Eve Eisenbise, retired from Manchester PD
“Since my retirement in 2003, I have spent a great deal of time actively involved in the Rivier Institute for Senior Education (RISE) in Nashua, both as a facilitator and as a student. As they say, you're never too old to learn something new, and the RISE program offers that opportunity to those of us 55 and older. They also say that if you really want to learn something, teach it, and as a RISE facilitator, I've been able to put together a variety of five week courses that involved subject matter that I wanted to know more about. I've enjoyed both the process of developing these courses as well as the chance to share what I've learned with interested students.”
—David McNeil, NHRS retiree
“My name is Lynn Plourde I retired from the Judicial Branch after 30 years of service.
I live in Florida during the winter months.
In October 2018, my homebred Morgan horse named LMP Bring It Home won at the World Championship Morgan Horse Show in Oklahoma City Reserve World Champion!
Also, I work with my friend Michelle Aulson and we run Goats to Go yoga classes in Georgetown, Mass and Bronson, Florida. It has really taken off."
–Lynn Plourde, NHRS retiree
“I hit the road…full-timing in a motor home!”
–Nathan Strong, NHRS retiree
“Painting, gardening, kayaking, and playing with my ponies.”
–Nancy Naples, NHRS retiree
“Life is good in western Maine…. where I work and live at Sugarloaf Ski area. I am a shuttle bus driver two days a week and enjoy the great outdoors the rest of the time.”
–Joe Samson, NHRS retiree
“I am currently Chairman of the Alton Bay Water Bandstand Committee. The Bandstand, age 90, was in dire need of repair so I wrote a petition directing Selectmen to repair it. This became an Article on the 2018 Town Warrant, it was approved by voters and a Committee was created. Repairs are nearly complete and on June 22, 2019, we will hold a Water Bandstand Celebration Day. You’re never too old to volunteer!”
–Nancy Merrill, retired in 2004
“In 2016 I self-published a family history book, "The Land in Our Hands - A History of the Burley-Demeritt Farm in Lee, NH". It's largely based on the stories written by my mother Della Demeritt Lamson about her years growing up at the farm in the early 1900's and includes old photos and paintings done by Della. The book also included a section on our family's genealogy dating back to the 1600's when they settled in the Great Bay region of the NH Seacoast. Both my older brother David Lamson and I (shown in the photo with me) also spent our early childhood there, and he wrote a section in the book about his early memories of life on the farm. I also continue to work on our family tree through Ancestry.
I retired from NHRS in January 2005. Thank you for giving us retirees the opportunity to share what we have been doing since our retirement.”
– Martha Lamson Butterfield, NHRS retiree
“Helping homeschoolers, making dolls, and spending time with my husband.”
–Barbara Wingren, NHRS retiree
“Since my retirement in 1999, I have been a professor at Boston University, a major author with Pearson, and now I am involved with a program to acclimate immigrants in Province to the United States. I work with immigrants from West Africa who are generally Muslims and speak French in addition to their first language which is Wollof or Twi or some other local tongue. Busy, demanding, but satisfying work.”
– Arthur Johnson, NHRS Retiree
“We divide our time between Maryland and Florida. We enjoy spending time with the grandchildren for 5 months, and spend the other 7 in sunny Florida. We enjoy a boat in Maryland.
We go to Disney twice a week. We have annual passes to the Space Center. We visit Sea World. We volunteer as CERT members as well as Citizens on Patrol. We have found a church home in both places. Dudley is a therapy dog, and we visit the VA – 2 assisted living homes – and a rehab facility each week. We visit in Maryland as well.
I tutor Hispanic women to improve their pronunciation in English each week. Our lives are full and busy. We try to go to the gym and walk a lot to maintain our health. Life is good, and we are so blessed. Working hard paid off."
– Karen (NHRS retiree), Mark, and Dudley Demyanovich
“I retired from the Merrimack Fire Department 20 year ago. Since I retired, I have been volunteering at the food program in Wittmann, Arizona. I get there around 6 in the morning. The food gets there in tractor-trailers. We have to set up the food line and bags; we run from 11:00 am to 2:00 pm. We feed about over 200 families. When I come back to New Hampshire, I also help out at our church in Merrimack at the food bank. In the morning when l go for a walk, I pick up trash in our area. I also was in the air forces for over 20 years.”
– Joseph Belanger, NHRS retiree
"I retired in 2011, and shortly afterwards, my wife, Cindi and I left our home and drove across the country to Salt Lake City for one year. We volunteered for a year at the Family History Library there, where we helped thousands of people research their family trees! We left again from November 2016 – 2018! Now we spend our retirement travelling to visit grandkids."
– Richard Cote, NHRS retiree
“What have I done? Gotten active in politics. Served a term in the legislature. Written 4 books. Traveled to Europe, China, Mexico, and the Caribbean. Traveled cross-country several times. Participated in an ongoing senior exercise program. Visited family in SC and GA. Built several guns. Remodeled a condo. Built a porch. Built a pergola.”
– John Martin, NHRS retiree
“You asked what we have been doing in retirement. Here is our crazy story. My husband and I have a different type of retirement than most, we sold our house, car and everything we owned to get rid of any of our bills and we put what we kept into one of our 5 bicycle bags and peddled away to go see the world. In the last 4 years, we have traveled just over 25,000 miles through the USA, Mexico, Central America and the length of South America (from Colombia to Tierra del Fuego) and now we are riding in New Zealand. People ask us all sorts of questions like where do you sleep, and what do you eat, and even what if you need a haircut! We write a nightly blog Gone4aRide to tell people about the wonderful world we travel through. To get there, google: Linda and Mike cycling around the world.
You can also find more pics on our blog or Instagram: @g4aride”
– Linda Stuart, former Concord School Teacher
“My name is Ron Cote (standing toward the rear of vehicle). I retired from the NH DRA on January 1, 2015. I now spend a great deal of my time volunteering. One of my volunteer efforts are a full day (Wednesday) each week, picking up furniture and household items for the St. Vincent de Paul Thrift Shop. The items are used for either assisting the less fortunate with second hand items, or sold to provide assistance through various charitable organizations from the Society of St. Vincent de Paul. I also volunteer to drive / transport food orders received from the NH Food Bank drop off point (in Berlin) on the first Tuesday of every month to the Marie Reviere Food Pantry, housed at the St. Vincent Thrift Shop location.”
– Ron Cote, NHRS retiree
“Since retiring, I have fostered 18 children for DCYF, I have traveled to 8 countries in Europe and several states in the Midwest. I love working at my daughter's bakery for a change of pace, and I make mittens, hats and quilts for the underprivileged.”
– Linda Woodward, NHRS Retiree
“I retired from the Administrative Office of the Courts at the end of September 2007 at age 60. Being able to take early retirement and having a pension has allowed me to realize my lifelong dream of pursuing a career as a fine artist. I create small and miniature Photorealistic New England landscapes that I show in miniature exhibitions around the country. I am also represented by the MainStreet MarketPlace & Gallery in Warner, NH. In the past several years, I have done several commissioned pieces for the NH Bureau of Historic Sites. They have been used to create products that are for sale in the gift shops.
The painting is one of the commissioned pieces for the NH Bureau of Historic Sites.”
– Nan McCarthy, NHRS retiree
“I’ve been playing, singing, and performing music including releasing two new CD's of original stuff in the last three years.”
– Chris George, NHRS retiree
“Life as a retiree has been a true adventure for us. We sold our house, bought an RV, and have been traveling all around the country seeing all that the US has to offer. While RV life may not be right for everyone, if you have a sense of adventure and a desire to travel, it is a great option. Besides sight-seeing, it also offers the option of “workamping” or volunteering at our State and National Parks. It is a "create your own adventure" retirement. As of right now, we have camped in 29 states. We are wintering in Yuma, Arizona but will get back to traveling again in April when we will add even more states to our list.”
– Maureen Rebele, retired from SAU 23
“Since my retirement twelve years ago, I have been able to spend more time with family and dear friends, read any book I feel like (and there have been over 1000), am a judge on the Granite State Challenge, and have traveled to the western US, Paris, Rome, Tuscany, cruised the Danube (twice), cruised the Panama Canal, and from Montreal to Boston, a tulip cruise, a Caribbean cruise, been to Las Vegas, Reno, Sacramento, NYC, and Spain. Looking forward to doing more in the next year.”
– Ann Boulanger, retired from PHS of SAU 52 (member of Seacoast Retired Teachers)
“Retirement has been amazing. I have moved to sunny Florida and started making jewelry and painting. Enjoying life.”
– Janet Andrews, NHRS retiree
