SALEM, NH – Donald J. Berard, age 78, a longtime resident of Salem, NH died unexpectedly March 12, 2024 at his home. He was the beloved husband of the late Louise M. (Cassista) Berard, father, pepere and great pepere.
He was born in Lowell on May 10, 1945, and was one of 15 children of the late Louis and Jeanne (Carrignan) Berard. He received his education in Lowell schools and was a graduate of St. Joseph High School in Lowell. He earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting from Bentley University in Waltham.
Prior to his retirement Donald held many executive roles across both the defense and medical equipment fields. He played an integral part in the development of a new high tech mammography imaging system that would eliminate the need for pressure. Along with his impressive career, he was always up for a challenge and dedicated many years supporting and working alongside his sweetheart in different creative areas. Together they set up a craft shop, created & manufactured “Knee Hugs”, a popcorn business and the project he most enjoyed, setting up and running a very successful photo studio.
Since retirement his passion was spending time with his children, grandchildren, family & friends. Between “Big” breakfasts, pool days, Sunday “Suppers” with football, annual Christmas Eve with his family, sunset pontoon rides on Dave’s boat, four wheeling with the boys and gardening. Don was notorious for capturing all of these memories on film & video; which his family will treasure forever. He always had an open door and welcomed everyone with open arms, making each person feel special. Family was everything to Don as evident by his larger than life smile. He cherished all the times sitting by his pool listening to his grandchildren’s laughter and telling stories.
Donald is survived by his 10 children, five sons, David Berard of Salem, NH, Daniel Berard of Salem, NH, Billy Berard and his wife Kimberly of Fremont, NH, Nathan Berard and his wife Karen of Salem, NH and Thomas Berard of Manchester, NH; five daughters, Stacey Ireson and her husband Paul of Dracut, Deborah Berard of Manchester, NH, Kathleen Marconi and her husband Christopher of Salem, NH, Kelly Brooks and her husband Terrence of Fayetteville, NC and Gail Berard of Lowell; twenty five grandchildren; seven great grandchildren; a brother, John Berard and his wife Lois of Hollis, NH; and many nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by two children, William Berard and Michelle Berard and many brothers and sisters.
Don dedicated his life to the happiness of his family and friends. He will be deeply missed by all.
Relatives and friends are invited to attend Donald’s Life Celebration at the MCKENNA-OUELLETTE FUNERAL HOME, 327 Hildreth Street, Lowell on Monday, March 18th from 10:00am until 1:00pm followed by his Funeral Service at 1:45pm at the St. Joseph Cemetery Chapel in Chelmsford. For condolences or directions, please visit www.mckennaouellette.com.
