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Rivet Funeral Home & Crematorium Inc. - Merrimack

425 Daniel Webster Highway

Merrimack, New Hampshire

Valerie Dodge Obituary

Valerie "Val" J. (Fryer) Dodge, 64 of Plainfield, NH died October 13, 2025 after a courageous year-long battle with glioblastoma.

She was born in Augusta, ME on June 6, 1961, a daughter of Sally M. (Card) Fryer of Merrimack and the late Joseph N. Morin. She passed quietly at home, with her family.

Valerie worked at Fulling Mill Fly Fishing in Claremont NH for 20 years. She previously worked for Cole Haan in Yarmouth, ME and HKTA Architects in Portland, ME.

Valerie enjoyed time with her family and friends from Maine to California and took great pride in the success and happiness of her children. She cherished the brief time she had with her grandchildren, cooking & baking, playing "Nana Monster" and laughing through indoor "snowball fights".

Preparing for retirement, Valerie and Dana restored "Lola", a vintage camper, planning trips around New England and the Northeast.

In addition to her mother, members of her surviving family include her husband of 43 years, Dana Dodge of Plainfield, NH; a daughter Samantha Thomas and her husband James of Weare, NH; a son Connor Dodge of Omaha, NE; two grandchildren, Maxwell and Sarah Thomas; a sister Karen Schofield of Merrimack, a step-mother Diane Morin, a step-brother Bob Boos and a step-sister Anne Whitehead all from Concord, CA; and several nieces, nephews and cousins.

Memorial Calling hours will be held in the Rivet Funeral Home, 425 Daniel Webster Hwy, Merrimack, NH on Oct. 17, 2025 from 4-7 PM. Memorial contributions may be made to the Lake Sunapee Region VNA & Hospice, 107 Newport Rd, New London, NH 03257 or www.lakesunapeevna.org

For more info or to leave an online memorial register book, go to rivetfuneralhome.com

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

Published by Union Leader on Oct. 16, 2025.

Memories and Condolences
for Valerie Dodge

Not sure what to say?





Ed and Bonnie Wilson

October 18, 2025

Dana and Family,
So terribly sorry to hear about Val’s passing. We have the fondest memories of her. Her smile lit up the room. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.

Lynne Lynch

October 17, 2025

I was so blessed to have been introduced to Val over 20 years ago. She was like a true "breath of fresh air"-one of those rare people whose gifts in life appeared to be uplifting others, spreading sincerity and kindness, and just being an easygoing companion. Val was very bright, kind, generous and always ready with her special laugh or thoughtful words to help lighten the load of others. If you crossed paths with Val, you found a lifelong friend...rest in peace, dear friend, and know that the girls weekend group will always set you a place and pour you a glass of wine at our table of friendship that you helped grow. My deepest condolences to Dana, Sam, Connor, Max and Sarah as you journey through the days ahead. Our hearts are with you.

Alan Fuller

October 17, 2025

Always upbeat, smiling and caring. A wonderful person and friend who I saw far too infrequently...

Nancy PickeringCortina

October 15, 2025

I graduated with Valerie. My deepest condolences to Dana and family. My God bring them Comfort and Strength.

August 2024

Nancy Burt

October 15, 2025

Deb Holbrook

October 15, 2025

My dear friend Val was a rock at times in my life when I needed her stable, common sense and incredible sense of humor. She and I were co-workers at Cole-Haan and friends for over 40 years. We had wonderful times together and fun gatherings at Val and Dana's house (time capsule anyone?). Valerie was an invaluable treasure to me and I know what kind of strength she had. I am sorry for this tremendous loss and send sincere sympathy to Dana and Family. I am certain she is with God, and that she is truly home. Love Deb.

Laurie Rothhaus

October 15, 2025

I will forever treasure our high school friendship and our time together. Val was always positive and kindhearted. When Finlay and I met Dana and Val in Maine a few years back it was like old home week. Sending my deepest sympathy to Dana and her family. Dana and Val shared a beautiful love story that was genuinely inspiring.
Sending hugs.

The Staff of George R. Rivet Funeral Home

October 16, 2025

Offering our deepest condolences during this time.

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Memorial Events
for Valerie Dodge

Oct

17

Visitation

4:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

Rivet Funeral Home

425 Daniel Webster Hwy, Merrimack, NH 03054

Funeral services provided by:

Rivet Funeral Home & Crematorium Inc. - Merrimack

425 Daniel Webster Highway P.O. Box 86, Merrimack, NH 03054

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