Religion

March 06. 2013 10:48PM

Lamontagne to lead bishop's charitable fund

Ovide Lamontagne, at left, is pictured with Bishop Peter A. Libasci of the Diocese of Manchester.

MANCHESTER - Bishop Peter A. Libasci announced that Ovide M. Lamontagne has been elected chairman of the Bishop's Charitable Assistance Fund. He succeeds Walter Gallo.

"As I understand it, Ovide has been involved with the fund since its inception," said Libasci. "He and his wife, Bettie, chaired the fund drive for two years and brought us to new high levels of achievement. He understands the needs of our people in New Hampshire and is a committed Catholic. I am gratified that he has accepted this new role."

Elected as new members are James J. Barry, retired senior justice of the New Hampshire Superior Court, and Eric J. Letendre, a certified financial analyst, senior portfolio manager and vice president at People's United Bank in Keene.

Reelected to a two-year term is Eleanor Wm. Dahar. Reelected to a three-year term are Michael Reed, Jane Rioux and Ron Rioux. Michael O'Neill retired after serving a number of terms. Attorney Martha O'Neill, of Nashua, was elected secretary of the board.

Lamontagne said it is an honor to serve as chairman.

"Our purpose is unique. Under the auspices of our bishop we raise funds that will help our neighbors in New Hampshire who are most in need. By supporting nonprofit organizations that serve the hungry, homeless and those struggling with challenges, we demonstrate the care of the bishop and all the church for our brothers and sisters-regardless of creed, race, sex or any other category. We are there to help everyone."

Lamontagne also said the late Fredrick B. Kfoury Jr. was elected treasurer and had chaired the Allocations Committee for many years: "We are still mourning the passing of Fred. This year the board honored him by naming him treasurer. The entire New Hampshire civic, charitable and business community has lost a champion and a cherished friend. Fred's many contributions to his community, his church and his family are beyond measure as was his love for the Granite State. "

Lamontagne is a shareholder of Devine, Millimet and Branch, a regional law firm. He specializes in health care, not-for-profit law and business transactions. He is a member of the national Diocesan Attorneys Association and the Catholic Lawyers' Guild of New Hampshire.