Van Lionel Laventure

Van L. Laventure, 57, of Manchester, passed away while vacationing in Bali, Indonesia on March 7, 2025. He was born in Manchester on February 9, 1968, the son of the late Lionel Laventure and Irene Brisson Laventure.

Van was a man of great humility, curiosity, and generosity. His smile and laughter were infectious. He made those around him feel loved, seen, and treasured. He valued volunteering his time and resources to family, friends, community caregivers, especially at the Webster House and Big Brothers/Big Sisters. Each played unique roles in his own development for which he was deeply grateful, hence he was committed to maintaining his support in ways that were sincere and personal.

A lifelong resident of New Hampshire, Van was a graduate of the University of New Hampshire with a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration. He thrived as an accomplished entrepreneur and franchise owner of a national recruiting firm because recruiting was more than business for Van. He mentored colleagues, fostered relationships, supporting people in transforming their lives and building self-confidence through meaningful work.

Van proudly served in the United States Army Reserves, performing global humanitarian work that echoed for the rest of his life. He loved to read, go to the beach, listen to podcasts and was a consummate thinker and learner. Most of all, he loved being present and enjoying simple things with his children, family, friends, and his dog Doug.

He is survived by his son, Ray Laventure of Chester, his daughter, Katherine Laventure of Chester, the love of his life, Jeanne Laventure of Chester; three brothers, Leonard Laventure of Goffstown, David Laventure and his wife Kay of Manchester, and Rene Laventure and his wife Nancy of Bedford; four sisters, Laurel Stacy of Goffstown, Diane Coulter of Concord, Ronda Laventure of Tennessee, and Vickie Laventure of Manchester; and many nephews, nieces, uncles, aunts, and cousins that will all miss his warm hugs and spirited sense of humor.

A memorial gathering will be held at Phaneuf Funeral Homes and Crematorium, 243 Hanover St. Manchester on Friday, April 11th from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM with a memorial service at the funeral home at 12:00pm. Burial with military honors will follow at 2:00 PM at the NH State Veterans Cemetery, Boscawen. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Webster House at www.websterhousenh.org. To view an online tribute, send condolences to the family, or for more information, visit www.phaneuf.net