Vic Lessard: Storyteller, 'Salt of the Earth' Family Man

Many residents reached out to the family and friends of Robert "Vic" Lessard through Patch Thursday after the longtime Hampton official and resident passed away.

Here are some of the things locals had to say about the man on Hampton-North Hampton Patch, on Hampton-North Hampton Patch's Facebook page and through e-mails to Patch:


Steve LaBranche: "I knew Vic personally. He was such a special person; he very much reminded me of my grandfather; a gentleman with a lot of wisdom and history that he was always willing to share. Just as my grandfather, Vic was a successful self made business man. Many times during my daily walk at Hampton Beach, Vic would see me and pull over to talk about ‘current events’. Vic was from Massachusetts and he had links to my hometown and my family.   

"I was amazed to hear his stories about when he had money invested into race horses, just as my own uncle Vic.   

"Vic Lessard adopted Hampton, just as so many of us have and he gave so much to the Town of Hampton and also the Hampton Beach Village District.   

"Today, when I learned of his passing, I became very distressed and I send my heartfelt expressions to his family.   

"The Town of Hampton will very much miss this ‘giving’ gentleman.   

"God Bless you Vic; you are in my prayers tonight."


Cathy Calligan Haughton: "Vic was like a father to me in many ways. I would always enjoy going to the house to visit. Although we only talked about business for a few minutes, I would spend hours at a time listening to stories about the old days. The pictures, the memories he cherished, and of course, his antique cars. I always enjoyed his company. He was a wonderful man and will be sorely missed. Watch out heaven! Here come's Vic! And please take care of him. We'll miss him forever."  

Sharron Plouffe: "Vic was a well known person in town from town father to other boards we are sorry for his family's loss and have our deepest sympathy , Mike & Sharron Plouffe"

Thomas Gagnon: "My sympathy to the Lessard sons and family and the town of Hampton. Mr Lessard always believed in this town and given 110% to help this town growth his dedication to Hampton . This Town will greatly miss this good man."

Lou Gargiulo: "RIP Vic! You will be missed by many. Our deepest sympathy go out to our good friend Kenny. May you take solace, in all of the good years you had with your Dad. Know that Mary and I are here for you in this sad and difficult period. God Bless You!"

Mark Weatherby: "While I did not Vic personally I do know of his legacy , dedication and commitment to the betterment of The Town of Hampton. I am neighbors and friends with both of his brothers Paul and Jack, all good stock, salt of the earth. Vic Lessard will be deeply missed in Hampton. Vic built my house in 1962. His legacy will live on in Hampton forever." 

Ski beach family: "My condolence to all the Lessard family. I have had the pleasure of sharing stories and candy with Vic from the back room at Marelli's Market. Vic always had an interesting story to go along with every topic. Vic will be sadly missed but always remembered for his dedication towards this town."

Kate Caithness: "Rest in Peace to my Uncle Vic. We will miss you." 

Dando Heath Kertanis: "Our condolences to the family. Dave & I will miss all the conversations with a great person. RIP Vic"