Michael F. Isabelle, 77

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Michael F. Isabelle, lovingly known as Mike, on Feb. 26, 2025, at the age of 77, just shy of his 78th birthday. He died at Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston from myocarditis, a complication related to an adverse reaction to his cancer treatment.

Mike was born in Laconia, on March 18, 1947, to Roland and Hortense Isabelle. He was the third of nine children, growing up in a large family with six sisters and two brothers. Mike spent most of his life in New Hampshire, raised in Meredith, residing in other various towns, and finally in Rochester. He graduated from Inter-Lakes High School in Meredith and later attended St. Michael’s College in Colchester, Vermont, where he studied Russian history.

In 1972, Mike married Patrice Denison of Meredith, and divorced in 1979. In 1979, he married Lynda Isabelle of Conway, and together they shared many years until their separation in 2004. Mike was the proud father of three children, Jennifer Hepler, Eric Isabelle and Lauren Isabelle. He also cherished being a grandfather to Isabelle Hepler and Brayden Hepler. He was especially fond of his Siamese cat, Junior, who was a constant companion.

A hardworking man, Mike worked as a butcher for much of his life, spending the last years of his career at Hunter's in Wolfeboro. In his early 20s, he served in the National Guard. In his free time, Mike enjoyed woodworking, crafting beautiful pieces that he proudly shared with friends and family. His skill was recognized at the Rochester Fair, where several of his pieces won ribbons. One of his most cherished projects was building a sailboat — a true testament to his love for the craft and expressing his passion for sailboats.

Mike is survived by his children, Jennifer and her husband Matthew, Eric, and Lauren; his grandchildren, Isabelle and Brayden; and his siblings, Terry Peck, Roland Isabelle Jr., Margaret Crossin, Jane Isabelle, Donald Isabelle, Anita Josten, and Annette Paine; and his precious cat, Junior. He is predeceased by his parents, Roland and Hortense Isabelle, and his sister, Barbara Blake.

A celebration of life will be held from 5 to 7 p.m. on Tuesday, March 18, at Peaslee Funeral Home, 24 Central St., Farmington.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Pope Memorial Humane Society, popememorialcvhs.org, where he adopted one of his beloved cats.