George C. Frigard

George C. Frigard, better known as “Mike” by his family and friends, passed away on his 87th birthday, October 31, 2024. Born and raised in Gloucester, MA, Mike embodied resilience, courage, and a remarkable spirit throughout his life.

 Mike leaves behind a devoted family: his son, Steven Frigard, along with Steven's wife, Maggie, and their son, Edmund “Teddy” Frigard; his daughter, Heather Lizotte, with her husband, Jay C. Lizotte, and their daughters, Victoria Lizotte and Halley Lizotte Furrier, and her husband, Ryan Furrier. He is also survived by his sisters, Sandra Lewin (and her late husband, Benjamin Lewin), Kathy Nicolosi and her husband, Chuck, and Johannah Robertson with her wife, Jan Knox and many loving nieces and nephews.

 Mike was predeceased by his wife of 37 years, Kathleen “Kathi” (Fitzgerald) Frigard. His son, Michael Edmund Frigard, from his first marriage to Ann (Govoni) Frigard, also predeceased him, as did his parents, Aarne and Barbara (Chisholm) Frigard.

 Mike was a man of many passions. A dedicated sailor, he spent countless hours on the water, sailing competitively throughout New England, Key West, Nova Scotia, and Bermuda. His beloved boats, including the Fledgling and his cherished series of Loose Goose vessels, were well-known. Mike was a proud member of the Corinthian Yacht Club in Marblehead, MA, for many years and served as Commodore from 1992-1994. He was also a President of Mass Bay Sailing and later enjoyed the camaraderie of the Sandy Bay Yacht Club in Rockport, MA and sailing with his brother-in-law on the Flying Scot.

 An avid skier, Mike raced competitively well into his later years, tackling the slopes of North Conway, New Hampshire, until the age of 79. After retiring from a successful career in commercial insurance as a Director at Frank B. Hall and Company in Boston, MA, Mike enjoyed working as a carpenter—a chapter he counted among the best years of his life.

 Mike’s life was marked by academic and athletic achievement. A graduate of Gloucester High School in 1956, he attended the University of New Hampshire, where he played varsity football and varsity hockey. As captain of both teams his senior year, he earned numerous awards for his athletic prowess. Mike went on to play semi-pro hockey in Concord and Nashua, NH. He was a proud member of the ATO fraternity and the ROTC program during his college years.

 After college, Mike served in the Army and was honorably discharged as a First Lieutenant, after service in Germany and at Fort Devens, MA.

 Known for his courage, grit, and unwavering resilience, Mike earned the nickname “Iron Mike.” He faced his lengthy illness with a quiet strength, never complaining or showing frustration. A true gentleman until the end, he was kind to everyone who crossed his path, and he will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege to know him.

 In lieu of flowers, donations in George “Mike" Frigard's name may be made to the University of New Hampshire Foundation for the George 'Mike' Frigard '60 Athletic Scholarship, Elliott Alumni Center, 9 Edgewood Road, Durham, NH 03824.

 A calling hour will be held on Friday, November 22, from 10:00 am to 11:00 am, followed by a Memorial Service at 11:00 am, both at Phaneuf Funeral Home, 172 King St, Boscawen, NH. Interment will take place at the New Hampshire State Veterans Cemetery immediately following the service.

 Mike’s legacy lives on through the love of his family, his adventurous spirit, and the many lives he touched. He will be remembered always as a warrior and a gentleman.