F. Paul Gavin, Sr.

MASON, NH — F. Paul Gavin, Sr., 72, of Mason, NH, died May 7, 2011 at his home surrounded by his loving family. He was born in Barre, VT on September 7, 1938, a son of Francis P. and Mary A. (Donahue) Gavin. He was raised and educated in Vermont and had been a resident of Mason, NH for the past 32 years and also resided part-time in Norway.

Mr. Gavin earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Chemistry from Norwich University, Class of 1960 and attended the University of Vermont for two years.

An entrepreneur for most of his life, he held numerous patents and owned several companies including G&W Industries of Acton, MA, Modu-Form, Inc. of Fitchburg, MA and FAMM Steel of Rindge, NH.

He enjoyed bird watching, working in his yard and most especially, spending time with his family. In addition, he was an avid reader, history buff and relished studies of The Civil War.

Mr. Gavin was a member of the Mason Congregational Church and the First Congregational Church of South Paris. He was a U.S. Army veteran and was honorably discharged in December 1962. He was a loving husband, a devoted father and grandfather.

Family members include his wife of 46 years, Carlene A. (Dunkleberger) Gavin of Mason, NH; a son and daughter-in-law, Francis P. and Robin Gavin of Brookline, NH; three daughters and a son-in-law, Ann Gavin of Brookline, NH, Maria Gavin of Marlborough, NH and Monica and Benjamin Harrington of Francestown, NH; eight grandchildren, Austin, Zachary, Mackenzie, Trevor, Harrison, Mercedes, Liam and Ainsley; a brother, Kelly Gavin of Belchertown, MA; a sister, Jean Gavin of Philadelphia, PA and several nieces and a nephew.

There are no visiting hours. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, May 14 at 11 a.m. in the Mason Congregational Church, 33 Valley Road, Mason, NH. In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory may be made to the American Cancer Society, 30 Speen Street, Framingham, MA 01701. Arrangements are in the care of Smith & Heald Funeral Home, 63 Elm Street, Milford, NH. To leave an on-line condolence, please go to www.smith-heald.com.