Philibert Joseph Lariviere, Jr.

Known for his unwavering kindness to everyone he met, Philibert J. Lariviere, Jr., 88, of West Swanzey, NH, passed away peacefully on June 20, 2025, at Maplewood Nursing Home in Westmoreland, NH, surrounded by his three adoring children. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

Phil was born on January 30, 1937, in Fitchburg, MA, to Hazel (Booth) and Philibert J. Lariviere, Sr., and grew up in Keene, NH—a community that always remained close to his heart. Later in life, he fulfilled a longtime dream by purchasing land and building a home for his family—lovingly known as “a home in the forest.” Nestled in nature, it became a place of comfort, joy, and countless memories for those he loved most. An unexpected turn in life eventually brought him to West Swanzey, NH, where he would live for the next three decades, independently, with the support of his eldest daughter and son, until the final five months of his life.

After graduating from high school, Phil proudly enlisted in the United States Navy. He was stationed aboard the USS Sellstrom (DE-255), serving his country with honor during the post–World War II era. His role aboard the destroyer escort included technical work that laid the foundation for his later career in electrical trades. Phil’s time in the Navy instilled in him a deep sense of duty, service, and quiet pride—values he carried throughout his life.

While serving in the Navy, he met the love of his life Alice Cullinane in a way neither of them expected. They had each been persuaded, reluctantly, to attend a dance they hadn’t planned on going to. What began as a chance meeting turned into something lasting and meaningful. Phil and Alice went on to share 43 years of marriage, building a life rooted in love, family, faith and devotion.

Phil enjoyed a long and respected career as a master electrician. He attended trade school in Massachusetts and began his professional journey working in Keene, NH, with Phil Moran and the American Optical Company and later joining Comerford Electric Company before founding his own business, Phil Lariviere & Son. He took great pride in his work and continued to serve his customers and community with dedication until retiring at the age of 72.

Phil loved the outdoors and embraced every opportunity to be in nature. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, hiking, and camping, and took great joy in restoring antique cars with his son. He also spent countless hours in his workshop, always building, repairing, or tinkering with something. Above all, Phil found his greatest happiness in time spent with his children—sharing the simple pleasures of life and creating memories that would last a lifetime. He cherished being a grandfather and prayed daily for good things for those he loved most.

A man of strong faith and gentle spirit, Phil was a lifelong communicant of both St. Bernard Church and St. Margaret Mary Church in Keene, NH. His most heartfelt advice was simple yet profound: be kind to yourself and to others. He was a man of his word, admired for his calm demeanor, steady presence, and even-keeled nature—qualities that left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him. He valued connection and remained close with many lifelong friends, some dating back to childhood—who continued to be part of his life until the end.

Phil is survived by his children, Philip J. Lariviere of Keene, NH, Maria Lariviere-Miffek and her husband Martin Miffek of Marlborough, NH, and Laura A. Lariviere of Oneonta, NY; as well as his beloved grandchildren, Lillian Miffek and Philibert Miffek. He is also survived by his sister, Constance “Connie” Fisk of Keene, NH; his brothers, Lawrence “Larry” Lariviere of West Swanzey, NH and Robert “Bob” Lariviere of Keene, NH; a niece, Dorothy Cullinane of Hancock, NH; and many loving nieces, nephews, and extended family members.

He was predeceased by his devoted wife, Alice A. (Cullinane) Lariviere, and by two of his children, Theresa Lariviere and Joseph Lariviere.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Monday, June 30, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at St. Bernard Church, 185 Main Street, Keene, NH. Burial with committal prayers and Navy honors will follow at St. Joseph Cemetery, Lower Main Street, Keene, NH.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Phil’s memory to the St. Vincent de Paul Society, c/o Parish of the Holy Spirit, 173 Main Street, Keene, NH 03431.