Neil’s journey began in Lynn, Massachusetts, but his life’s adventures have taken him around the world. As a Navy veteran, he’s traveled to and lived in several cities and countries, forming lifelong memories along the way.
One of Neil’s most exciting experiences was chasing submarines in the Mediterranean while serving in the Navy. In 1954, during his service, Neil had the chance to attend the Masters Tournament, securing a three-day pass for only $5—a fraction of what it would cost today. But his service wasn’t without its challenges. In a twist of fate, after a crash left him floating in the Mediterranean, it was none other than his next-door neighbor from Lynn who rescued him, exclaiming, “Therrien, what are you doing out here?”
When Neil returned to the States, he had a plan—find the prettiest girl at St. Mary’s and marry her. True to his word, he met Mary, and the two have been inseparable ever since, celebrating 68 years of marriage. Together, they’ve raised six children, enjoyed the company of nine grandchildren, and welcomed six great-grandchildren into the world.
Neil’s professional life was as remarkable as his personal one. He spent 35 years at Raytheon as a technical writer and in quality assurance, a career that took him to Saudi Arabia, France, Italy, Florida, California, and Alaska. Of all the places he traveled, Italy became his favorite. Living there for a year, Neil not only enjoyed the local cuisine but also formed deep bonds with a local family who welcomed him into their close-knit community. Neil helped them with their harvests and traveled with them on weekends, creating memories that would last a lifetime. Even today, Neil continues to enjoy the Italian opera and remains in touch with his Italian friends.
France offered Neil a different kind of adventure. While there, he cooked his way through Julia Child’s famous book, Mastering the Art of French Cooking. Incredibly, he even met Julia Child herself at the airport! Known for his delicious beef bourguignon (his secret: use cheap wine), Neil has left a lasting impression with his culinary skills.
Neil’s life wasn’t just about work and travel. He was an active member of his community, participating in organizations like the Knights of Columbus, the church, and the Kiwanis Club. He took pride in organizing an annual St. Patrick’s Day dinner for over 200 people, and his methods of cutting onions and keeping drinks cold are still used today. As a lover of hockey, Neil also opened and operated his own hockey equipment shop, further showcasing his entrepreneurial spirit.
Above all, Neil is proud of his children and their accomplishments. He believes in the power of education and the importance of setting a strong example for future generations.
About the Resident Spotlight
In our Resident Spotlight series we celebrate the incredible lives of the residents who call Rockingham County Rehabilitation, Nursing Center, and Assisted Living Community home. Each spotlight features a unique story that reflects the heart and soul of our community’s residents.
