John M. Dagenais, 57, a native and longtime resident of Claremont, NH born on December 25, 1953, passed away unexpectedly on Monday, May 16, 2011 after battling a long-term illness.  John was predeceased by his father, John F. Dagenais, and is survived by his mother, Elizabeth Dagenais of St. Louis, MO; one brother, Brian Dagenais and his wife, Carol of Lee, NH, their son George L. Taggart and his wife, Jennie of Concord, NH; two sisters, Brenda Ranney of Claremont, NH, Kathryn Alexander, her sons, Steven and Matthew of Irvine, CA; one brother, Keith Dagenais and his partner, William Johnston of St. Louis, MO, numerous cousins, one uncle, Donald Chandler and his wife, Carol of Gahanna of OH; two aunts, Sophie Chandler and Rachel Dagenais both of Claremont. 

John graduated from Stevens High School in the Class of 1971. While attending high school, John participated in band, choir and theater. John won numerous awards for his acting, singing and trumpet abilities.  He was recognized by the U. S. Military Band for his outstanding talents.   John was a member of the band Stop, Look and Listen, who recorded a record in NY.  John also sang solo at NY City’s Metropolitan Opera.  John attended Keene State College, Keene, NH and University of NH, Durham, NH where he majored in Political Science and minored in Theatre.  John performed many years for Claremont Hospital’s Annual Fundraising Event Cardiac Capers, the Opera House and other theatrical events.  John enjoyed travelling especially to California and to Las Vegas where he utilized his singing.  John worked at Merit’s Clothing in Claremont, NH, Heller’s Clothing Store in Claremont, NH and for his relative’s hotels in Palm Springs, CA. 

Funeral Services will be held Sunday May 22^nd at 2 PM at the Stringer Funeral Home, 146 Broad Street, Claremont with Deacon Paul Boucher officiating.

Friends may call from 12 to 2 prior to the funeral service. To honor John’s memory, donations may be made to the Claremont Opera House, PO Box 664, Claremont, NH 03743 or to the Sullivan County Humane Society, PO Box 111, Claremont NH 03743.