Eric Paul Rochette

Eric Paul Rochette, 55, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, May 12, 2026, at the Community Hospice House in Merrimack following a lengthy battle with chronic illnesses. He is the beloved husband of Deanna (Brodeur) Rochette with whom he shared 20 years of marriage, just celebrating this past March.

Eric was born in Nashua, New Hampshire on May 27, 1970, and is the loving son of Paul and Louise (Lavoie) Rochette of Nashua. He attended schools in the Nashua School System and was a graduate of Nashua High School in 1988. He continued his education at the New England Institute at Mount Ida College, enthusiastically following in his father’s footsteps into the funeral profession. He graduated in 1991 as a member of the Phi Theta Kappa Honors Society and became a New Hampshire licensed funeral director and embalmer that same year.

In June 1991, he officially began his career in funeral service, working alongside his father, Paul, at the former Anctil-Rochette & Son Funeral Home in Nashua. In September 2014, Eric purchased the funeral home from his father, happily becoming a second-generation funeral homeowner dedicated to serving the families of Greater Nashua with compassion and care. He and his wife, Deanna, became co-owners in 2019, and he was both proud and excited to work alongside her in the profession he deeply loved.

Over the course of 35 years in funeral service, Eric made it his mission to ensure every family he served was cared for in every possible way. Deeply devoted to his profession, he was truly gifted in his work and will be remembered for his kindness, generosity, and compassionate spirit.

Eric also had many interests and passions outside of his profession. He began playing the drums at a young age and, while attending Nashua High School, was a proud member of the school band. Music was one of his greatest joys, and he was often found listening at full volume to some of his favorite artists, especially Rush and its legendary drummer, Neil Peart. His love of performing also led him to become a member of the Actorsingers of Nashua.

Dedicated to serving his community, Eric served as a New Hampshire State Representative for District 31, Ward 4 from 2005–2006 and for District 28, Ward 1 from 2007–2008. He enjoyed discussing politics and was always well-informed on current events. Continuing his commitment to the funeral profession, he proudly served on the New Hampshire State Board of Funeral Directors and Embalmers from 2015–2020.

Among all of Eric’s many interests and passions, sports held a special place in his heart. He had a deep love for both baseball and basketball and dedicated countless seasons to serving as an umpire for Cal Ripken Baseball in Nashua. One of his greatest joys was his annual trip to Cooperstown, New York, where he spent a week umpiring games and helping inspire the next generation through their love of baseball. He also officiated basketball games in Nashua, further sharing his passion for sports with the community.

Eric’s love of athletics extended beyond the field and court, as he was a devoted New England sports fan who proudly cheered on the Boston Red Sox, New England Patriots, Boston Bruins, and Boston Celtics.

In his free time — which was often scarce while balancing so many passions and commitments — Eric always made time for the people he loved most: his family. Whether enjoying fun-filled vacations with his wife, Deanna, especially their favorite trips to Las Vegas, or gathering for family dinners and celebrations, he cherished every moment spent with those closest to him.

Eric had an incredibly generous heart and a unique ability to make everyone: family, friends, and even new acquaintances, feel special, welcomed, and loved. He carried his signature smile wherever he went, never allowing his illnesses to diminish his warmth, positivity, or spirit.

In addition to his wife, Deanna, and his parents, Paul and Louise Rochette of Nashua, he is survived by his sister, Kristen Rioux, and her husband, David of Nashua; and his beloved nephew and niece, Zachary and Isabella Rioux. He is also survived by many aunts, uncles, and cousins.

Sadly, Eric was predeceased by his paternal grandparents Marcel and Lorraine (Duclos) Rochette and his maternal grandparents Laurent and Anita (Nadeau) Lavoie.

All who had the privilege of knowing or working with Eric understood what a special person he was. His kindness, compassion, and genuine spirit touched countless lives, and he will be deeply missed by everyone who had the honor of knowing him.

Relatives and friends are invited to Eric’s visitation on SUNDAY, May 17th from 3 until 7 PM at ROCHETTE FUNERAL HOME AND CREMATION SERVICES, 21 Kinsley Street, Nashua, NH. His Funeral Mass will be held on MONDAY, May 18th at 11 AM in Immaculate Conception Church, 218 E. Dunstable Road, Nashua. KINDLY MEET AT CHURCH. His interment will follow in St. Louis Cemetery, Nashua. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his name to the Community Hospice House, 7 Executive Park Drive, Merrimack, 03054. Arrangements proudly under the care of the staff who cherished every workday with him.