Claire Boulanger Alterio

Claire Boulanger Alterio, 88, of Nashua, NH, passed away peacefully on August 26th at 6:20am.

Born on October 7, 1936, in Groton, MA, she was the daughter of the late George and Lucie Boulanger. Growing up in Forge Village, Westford, MA, she was surrounded by her loving family and embraced by her close-knit French-Canadian community. She attended Notre Dame Academy in Tyngsboro before beginning her career at Raytheon as an office assistant in the personnel office. It was there that she met a young new hire, Anthony Alterio, who would become the love of her life. They married soon after and shared a happy and devoted life together. They were married for over 57 years until Tony’s passing in 2014.

Claire and Tony had settled in Chelmsford, MA, where they raised their three children, Robbie, Mark, and Tina. Their home reflected a classic mid-century suburban life, filled with neighborhood friendships, family gatherings, and a strong sense of togetherness. While Claire took some time off to raise her children, she later resumed her career, working for many years as an executive assistant at Microwave Associates, later M/A-COM, where she enjoyed her work and friendships.

In retirement, Claire and Tony moved to Nashua, NH, and spent winters in Naples, FL. They cherished their time by the ocean, taking long walks on the beach and watching sunsets together.

Above all, Claire treasured her family. She was a devoted grandmother to Skye and Maeve Alterio and Cole and Sophia Middlebrook. She became known for her elaborate, hand-decorated birthday cakes, which delighted her grandchildren and became treasured family traditions. Claire was a voracious reader and an adept knitter. She would often spend evenings knitting little caps for newborn babies that she would donate to the local hospital maternity ward.

One of the things everyone noticed about Claire was her sense of style. She had a natural eye for beauty, which showed both in the way she dressed and in the way she decorated her home. Whether it was choosing just the right outfit or arranging a room to feel warm and welcoming, she expressed herself through elegance and creativity.

Claire is survived by her sister, Pauline Pickard; her children, Robbie Alterio, Mark Alterio, and Tina Middlebrook; and her beloved grandchildren, Skye and Maeve Alterio and Cole and Sophia Middlebrook. She was predeceased by her husband, Anthony Alterio.

The family is planning a private gathering to celebrate Claire’s life.