Nora Rose Marie Mendel

Born on March 30, 1944, Nora was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and friend whose warmth and generosity touched all who knew her. She is survived by her loving husband of 40 years, Lance Mendel, and her five children: Mark Lefebvre and wife Denise of Dracut, MA;

Darlene Donahue and husband Jonathan of Nashua, NH; Denise Bentley and husband Jim of Manchester, NH; Becky Sydoriak and husband Dan of Hudson, NH; and Denissa Grace and husband Mike of Litchfield, NH.

She was a proud grandmother to Kasey Rackliff, Daniel Lefebvre, Timothy Lefebvre, Jonathan Sheridan, Nicholas Sheridan, Michelle Donahue, Nicole Donahue, Drew Sydoriak, Faith Sydoriak, Caleigh Grace, and Mikey Grace; two great-grandchildren; and three more expected in the coming months. Nora also leaves behind her special boy, Buddy the dog, who was always by her side.

Nora’s career included many years at Teradyne, after which she fulfilled her dream of entrepreneurship as the owner of Hilda’s Fashion Boutique. She and Lance spent 22 wonderful years in Arizona before returning to New Hampshire in 2006 to be closer to their family and grandchildren, whom she cherished deeply.

Known as the best baker in the family, Nora could make a chocolate chip cookie that belonged in a Hall of Fame and family gatherings won’t be the same without her famous potato salad — though she’d humbly tell you it was “nothing special.” Nora’s many interests reflected her creative and caring spirit. She enjoyed reading, puzzles, and crocheting blankets and socks for family and friends and she also loved the excitement of visiting casinos. Tuesdays were often spent shopping with her daughter Denise, a tradition she looked forward to each week.

Nora’s spirit lives on in every cozy blanket, every batch of cookies cooling on the counter, and every laugh shared around the table. She will be remembered for her kindness, her humor, and her unwavering ability to make everyone feel like family.

A Celebration of Life will be held at McHugh Funeral Home, 283 Hanover St, Manchester NH, on Thursday, October 23, 2025, from 11AM-3PM with a Special Time of Remembrance at 2PM. The family invites all who knew her to join in sharing stories, laughter, and fond memories of a beautiful life well lived.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests doing something Nora would love: do a puzzle, bake something sweet, or hug your loved ones a little tighter.

Arrangements have been entrusted to McHugh Funeral Home, Manchester NH.