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Chris Pearne Obituary

PORTSMOUTH — Chris Pearne, beloved member of Portsmouth's music and craft community, passed away on Friday, June 24, 2011.

Known as a skilled and caring luthier and as a sensitive and intelligent songwriter, he was a trusted friend and confidante to many. Chris was a familiar figure at Port City Coffee Roasters, where for years he could be found accompanied by his well-loved dog, Mandy.

Chris was born John Christopher Pearne in Oakland, Calf., on May 25, 1945, and grew up in the suburbs of Cleveland, Ohio, where he started performing music in the 1960s. After a short stay at Kent State University and serving in the National Guard, he moved to the Boston area in 1966, where he quickly became part of the folk scene. Then, migrating to New Hampshire in the seventies, he settled in the Peterborough area, becoming an integral player at the legendary Folkway club: as performer, sound man, and emcee, in addition to maintaining his guitar building and repair shop there. At around that time, he also became involved in working in human services, which he pursued for several years.

In 1988, Chris moved to the Seacoast, establishing himself as an instrument repairman at Gary's Guitars before moving his shop over to the Button Factory.

Chris is survived by his sister, Sally Pearne of Philadelphia, Pa.; his brother, Dennis Pearne of Framingham, Mass.; sons, Alex of Nashville, Tenn., and Michael of Tulsa, Okla.; grandchildren, Michaela and Michael of Tulsa; and closest friend and "best ex," Anne Pearne of Kittery, Maine.

Chris will be remembered as a warm, caring soul with a sympathetic ear and a capacity for intelligent, involved conversation. He was a willing and eager mentor who relished the opportunity to share his knowledge and his craft. He will be greatly missed.

Donations in his name can be made to the Stratham SPCA, Families First, or simply by paying it forward. Arrangements are by Paul C. Rogers & Sons Family Funeral Home, 2 Hillside Ave., Amesbury, Mass.

@Online guest book:Visit www.fosters.com/obits for an online guest book.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Foster's Daily Democrat from Jun. 30 to Jul. 1, 2011.

Memories and Condolences
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2 Entries

Carolyn Miller

August 20, 2020

I have fond memories of Chris and Denny Pearne playing at Hurnum's Grunion way back in the early 1970's in Nashua, NH. RIP, my friend.

Tina Marconi

July 1, 2011

You will be missed greatly, Chris. Love, Tina

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