Dorothy C. Gancarz, 74, of Manchester, passed away on January 11, 2013 at the Hillsborough County Nursing Home, in Goffstown, surrounded by her loving family.
She was born in Manchester, on January 22, 1938, the daughter of Herman and Laura (Chevrette) Girard and spent most of her adult life residing in Manchester.
Dorothy was a simple woman who enjoyed simple pleasures. She took great pride in being a homemaker, as her family meant everything to her. She was of very strong faith and enjoyed practicing her religion. Dorothy was an avid knitter and spent much of the year working on hand made gifts for the most important people in her life, her family and friends. She also had a knack for easily making friends, as people were drawn to her sweet nature, infectious laugh and million dollar smile. For several years she was a foster grandparent, a role she took great pleasure in.
Family members include a son, Gary Cantara of Oakland, CA; a daughter, Gail C. Bernard (and husband Robert) of New Boston; two grandchildren, (Kara L. Bernard of Manchester & Brett G. Bernard of Jackson Wy); two sisters, Lucille Roy (and husband David) of Allenstown and Patricia Moran (and husband John) of Pembroke; five brothers, Maurice Girard of Allenstown, Gilbert Girard of Manchester, Paul Girard (and wife Donna) of Candia, Edward Girard (and wife Barbara) of Pembroke and David Girard (and wife Barbara) of Goffstown; three step-sons, David, John jr and Glenn Gancarz; a number of step grand children and several nieces and nephews. She also leaves her ex-husband Robert E. Cantara of Pembroke. Dorothy was predeceased by her husband, John Gancarz , Sr.; sisters, Priscilla Brown and Lorraine Coulombe; brothers, Roger and Ronald Girard; and step mother Marie-Ange Girard.
A Mass of Christian Burial was held on Monday, January 14, 2013 at St. Anthony’s Church, 172 Belmont St., Manchester, NH. Committal Prayers followed in the mausoleum at Mt. Calvary Cemetery, 474 Goffstown Road, Manchester, NH 03102. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to: Hillsborough County Nursing Home, c/o: ELU Ward, 400 Mast Road, Goffstown, NH 03045