Religion

March 06. 2013 10:41AM

Ovide Lamontagne to chair Bishop's Charitable Assistance Fund

MANCHESTER - Bishop Peter A. Libasci announced that Ovide M. Lamontagne has been elected chair 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 Bishop 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 the Hon. James J. Barry, senior justice (ret.), New Hampshire Superior Court; and Eric J. Letendre, CFA, senior portfolio manager and vice president, based in Keene at People's United Bank. Reelected to a two-year term is Eleanor Wm. Dahar, Esq. 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 thanked outgoing chair Walter Gallo for his leadership. "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.