Mary Townsend, 56 of Main Street in Charlestown, died early Sunday morning,
February 18, 2007, at her home with her best friend and home care provider,
Mary LaPalme, by her side after fighting a courageous battle with
Alzheimer's disease.

Mary was born on May 25, 1950 in Hanover, NH the daughter of Harold and
Dorothy (Stone) Townsend.  She grew up in Laconia State School until served
by Developmental Services of  Sullivan County in 1983.  In 1987 Mary was
welcomed into the home of Mary (Little) LaPalme and her sons Ben and Sam in
Claremont.  Mary thrived in a family atmosphere and loved being a part of a
large extended family.

Mary led an active life.  She was an avid swimmer, skied both cross-country
and downhill and loved horseback riding.  She was active in volunteering in
her communities among them: St Mary's School hot lunch program, the NHVTC
Daycare Center, the Springfield Animal Shelter, and the Charlestown Primary
School.  In her final years she enjoyed her lunches at the Charlestown
Heritage Diner and her daily ice-cream at the Ice Cream Machine in
Charlestown.

Mary loved her family and friends with a zest and enthusiasm that will
surely be missed.  Mary lived a rich, productive life and brought love and
laughter into each life she touched.  Mary will be remembered by her
numerous rings, her notebooks, the color pink and her precious smile.

Mary's parents pre-deceased her as well as Don LaPalme, husband of Mary
LaPalme. 

The surviving family includes her brother, Peter Townsend, sister-in-law
Heather and their daughters, Kristen and Rachel all of Springfield, OH;
Mary LaPalme, her best friend and caregiver and her sons, Ben and Sam
Little; the Jellie families and the Perkin's family all of Charlestown and
numerous friends throughout the community.

A Memorial Celebration of Life will be held at Noon on Saturday, Feb. 24th
at the Charlestown Memorial VFW Post #8497 on the Lover's Lane Road with
Rev. Father Shawn M. Therrien, Pastor of St Mary's Church, officiating.
Please feel free to come with a memory to share.

Interment will be at a later date in the summer in Lebanon, NH.