Stephen A. Gigas, 76

GILFORD — Stephen "Steve" Allen Gigas, 76, passed away Oct. 13, 2025, at the Pyareo Home in Sanbornton. His battle with cancer was short. Our family is grateful for the kindness, respect and dignity he received in his final days ensuring a certain peace for his journey onward.

Steve was born on Dec. 2, 1948, in Laconia, son of Chester and Marguerite (Rhodes) Gigas. He grew up in Laconia, and spoke highly of his grandmother Mary. Steve held many jobs throughout New Hampshire during his time. Construction, factories, landscaping, sales and many more. Later in life he was drawn to social work as he loved helping all people. He worked as director of many shelters and assisted in getting the Pyareo Home established 25 years ago. Since then, many like-minded folks of the Sant Bani community and from throughout the region, have become part of the family of the wonderful elderly home. He worked for years turning an idea into reality and was proud of his part in the home’s history.

He enjoyed meditating and his time with friends and family gatherings. He loved working out, eating healthily and working with his colleagues and friends at Belknap Landscape Company. In his final years he enjoyed living simply and reconnecting with family. He treasured holidays with his brother Mike going out for Indian food.

Steve is survived by his daughters Christle and Serene, and sons Joseph, Evan, David and John, and his three brothers Joseph, Michael and David. He has many great-grandchildren that live all over the country and he always sent birthday and holiday gifts to stay connected. He was predeceased by his parents.

A private service will be held at Sant Bani Ashram.

If anyone would like to make donations in his name, please send them to Lakes Region VNA, 186 Waukewan St. #6023, Meredith, NH 03253, or to the Sant Bani Ashram, 30 Ashram Road, Sanbornton, NH 03269.

Wilkinson-Beane-Simoneau-Paquette Funeral Home & Cremation Services/603Cremations.com, 164 Pleasant St., Laconia, is assisting the family with arrangements. For more information and to view an online memorial, visit wilkinsonbeane.com.