Donald Nelson “Don” Simard

Donald Nelson “Don” Simard, 90, died peacefully on Saturday, March 28, 2026 at the Community Hospice House in Merrimack surrounded by his loving family. He is the beloved husband of Cecile Y. (Bastille) Simard with whom he would have celebrated 71 years of marriage this June.

Don was born in Nashua, on January 7, 1936 and was the son of the late Edward and Rose (Levesque) Simard. He received his education and attended Alvirne High School.

He proudly served his country in the United States Coast Guard during the Korean War until he was honorably discharged.

For many years, Don proudly owned and operated Don Simard Electrical, where he built a reputation as a skilled and dependable electrician. Through his dedication to his craft and strong work ethic, he earned the trust and respect of those he served. In later years, Don discovered a passion for contracting, channeling his talents into building numerous homes and apartment buildings. His work stands as a lasting testament to his craftsmanship, vision, and commitment to creating spaces where families and communities could thrive.

Don had a deep love for the outdoors and adventure, especially hunting and fishing. He enjoyed many memorable trips, including big game hunts to Alaska and the Northwest Territories, experiences he spoke of with great pride. An avid fisherman, Don particularly cherished landing a tarpon off the coast of Florida, a catch he considered one of his finest accomplishments. He also had a passion for cars, finding joy in working on them and taking special pride in his treasured Corvette. Gifted with a talent for restoration, Don spent countless hours bringing antique tractors; especially the iconic John Deere; back to life. For 30 years, he and his wife, Cecile, embraced the snowbird lifestyle, spending their winters in the Sarasota area of Florida. Above all, Don’s greatest happiness came from time spent with his family, whom he loved deeply and unconditionally.

In addition to his wife, Cecile, he is survived by his two daughters, Robin Simard of Limerick, Maine and Kim Michaud of Litchfield, NH; his four grandchildren, Ryan Gutowski and his wife Sara, Adam Gutowski and his wife Jocelyn, Corryn McCloskey and her husband Dan and Jillian Spellacy and her husband Matthew. He is also survived by his eight great-grandchildren, Hunter, Camden, and Ryker McCloskey, Lane, Fiona, and Rosalia Spellacy, and Greyson and Owen Gutowski; as well as many nieces, nephews and dear friends.

Sadly, Don was predeceased by his son-in-law, Clayton Michaud and his sister Theresa Desjardin and her husband Raymond.

Relatives and friends are invited to Don’s Funeral Mass on SATURDAY, April 11th at 10 AM in St. Kathryn Church, 4 Dracut Road, Hudson. Kindly meet at church. His interment and

presentation of military honors will follow. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Don’s name to the Community Hospice House, 7 Executive Park Drive, Merrimack, NH 03054. Fond memories or expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.ANCTIL-ROCHETTE.com