Irene Valliere

Irene (Couture) Valliere passed away quietly in the morning hours of Oct. 4, 2016, after a brief illness. She died peacefully at home, surrounded by those who loved her.

Irene was born in Hanover, N.H., on March 9, 1937, a daughter of the late Alma (Gilbert) and Paul Couture. She attended Hanover High School and Connecticut Teacher's College, where she was on the Dean's list.

Irene worked with Meals on Wheels and Stoughton House in Windsor, Vt., and was the first manager of Olde Windsor Village where for many years she enjoyed the personal relationships and friendships she developed with the residents.

After moving back to New Hampshire, she inspected and monitored properties for New Hampshire Housing Finance Authority, establishing relationships with both tenants and property owners throughout the (mostly) Northern and Central part of the state.

Upon retiring, she moved to Wells, Maine, to be nearer to the beach which was a source of lifetime enjoyment and relaxation to her as well as countless memories of family vacations over the years. Irene loved gardening, walking on the beach and tent camping. She especially loved to cook wonderful meals for family and friends.

Irene was especially proud of the accomplishment of raising her three children without any child support, financial or emotional help of any kind. She referred to herself as "The Little Engine that Could" and she was a constant source of inspiration and strength to others who found themselves in tough circumstances. She was often heard to say, "I can't never did a thing! So do it!"

Irene was preceded in death by her brother, Norman Couture, and sister Madeleine DePasque.

She is survived by her brother, John Couture of Sanford; daughters Catherine Rylant of Essex Junction, Vt., Diane Valliere (Sister Helena) of Baltic, Conn., and Michelle Groleau and son-in-law Paul Groleau of Wells; granddaughters Elizabeth Rylant and Jessica Rylant; great-granddaughter Autumn Morgan; and great-grandson Apollo. As close as children to Irene were nephew Leonard DePasque, niece Maddy McLagan, great-niece Kayla, nephew David and Allyn Girard.

She will be missed but her light and love and spirit will continue on in all of us.

There will be no viewing or calling hours and, continuing with Irene's lifetime wish, a large celebration of life will be held in the Spring.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Chad E. Poitras Cremation and Funeral Service, Buxton. Online condolence messages may be submitted at www.mainefuneral.com.

In lieu of flowers, any donation in her name to Hospice of Southern Maine would be appreciated at Hospice of Southern Maine, 180 US Route One, No. 1, Scarborough, ME 04074. They provided excellent care and family support during the final week of her life.