From a press release issued by Jellison Funeral Home:

Antrim, New Hampshire – Bryan Paquette, 46, of 9 Davison Drive, died on Friday, July 9, as a result of injuries sustained in a motorcycle racing accident in Loudon. He was born on September 30, 1957 in Peterborough, New Hampshire, son of Joan Phelps Stebbins and Francis Paquette. He resided in Antrim for thirteen years.

He was a graduate of Marlborough High School class of 1975. In 2000 he opened a new business; Bryan’s Sportbike Painting and served many customers throughout the years. He was a member of the American Motorcyclist Association, an avid golfer, and with great enthusiasm enjoyed entertaining and cooking for his family and friends. He loved his wife, children and family with all his heart.

He is survived by his wife, Rebecca “Becky” Davison Paquette of Antrim; three children, Jacob, Jennifer and Sally, all of Antrim; his mother, Joan Stebbins of Marlborough; his father, Francis Paquette of Hancock; two brothers, Francis Jr. and Thomas Paquette, both of Hancock; two sisters, Tammy Paquette of Florida and Peitra Stebbins of Marlborough; his mother-in-law, Joyce Davison of Antrim; several nieces, nephews, aunts uncles, cousins and many loving friends.

There are no calling hours. A memorial service is scheduled for Thursday, July 15, at 2pm at his residence on 9 Davison Drive in Antrim.

Memorial contributions in his name may be made to the New England Organ Bank, 1 Gateway Center, suite 202, Newton, MA 02458

Jellison Funeral Home, 25 Concord Street, Peterborough, is assisting the family with arrangements.


And now some reader reaction:

FIRST PERSON/OPINION

Via e-mail:

I just read the news of Bryan Paquette’s death. My prayers go out to his family and friends.

Bryan was very awesome friend of mine. Bryan always had a way of watching over and helping me in ways only Bryan could. When I struggled with not racing, but being around it, Bryan was always there for support. I will always remember Bryan for his humor, support, hard work, and as a true friend. My heart goes out to everyone who knew Bryan, we will all miss him.

Godspeed Bryan, “ya ole man!”

Shane Clarke
Olathe, Kansas



FIRST PERSON/OPINION

Via e-mail:

I had known Bryan for 5 years and I can’t remember when he didn’t have the time to stop what he was doing and offer me some help or advice. His smiling face in the Dunlop garage was something that I looked forward to each race weekend. From tires to bodywork to simple tricks, Bryan was there in my corner to help out and I’m going to greatly miss him. Friday afternoon, my heart sank when I got the news–my sympathies go to his family.

Adam Vella
WebCrush Racing
Chelmsford, Massachusetts