Anatole “Annie” Paquette, 77, most recently of Pass Christian, MS and formerly of Center Harbor, NH, passed away peacefully at home on April 9, 2026, surrounded by family. Anatole was born in Laconia, NH on September 9, 1948, and was the son of Anatole J. Paquette, Sr. and Charlotte (Beede) Paquette. He was the middle child of five.

Annie graduated from Inter-Lakes High School in 1966 and went on to study sign painting and commercial art at Butera School of Art in Boston, MA, graduating in 1969. Anatole enlisted in the United States Army Reserve in 1969 and served as a General Draftsman until 1975.

He leaves behind a life defined by dedication, creativity, and deep love for family, friends, and music. Inspired by watching The Beatles on The Ed Sullivan Show, he started his own band, “Annie and the Orphans” in 1964. He was only a sophomore in high school and became a self-taught drummer, later becoming the lead singer. This began a 57-year journey of playing music and entertaining. Annie was happiest when he was on stage performing, seeing people dance and have fun.

Annie and the Orphans participated in many “battle of the bands” competitions in their younger years. The band was a mainstay on the M.S. Mount Washington cruise ship for 34 summers. His band became an annual tradition at The Sandwich Fair on Columbus Day weekend. In addition, he especially enjoyed when the band played at numerous town gazebos in the summer months. His band played throughout New England, New York, New Jersey, and Florida, sharing their talent and love of music with countless audiences. Annie was thrilled to make music with his nephew, Tom Paquette, who joined the band in 2014. In 2016, Annie and his band were asked to play on Royal Caribbean’s Freedom of the Seas for the Small Town Big Deal Vintage Tractor Cruise. Everyone who knew Annie, loved him. He was a true Lakes Region Legend!

A skilled craftsman and entrepreneur, Anatole owned and operated Paquette Signs for 50 years, where his work became a familiar and trusted presence across the Lakes Region and all of New Hampshire. Through his business, he combined artistry with hard work, building not just signs, but lasting relationships with those he served. He was a member of the New Hampshire Sign Association and was elected president on two occasions. In addition, he also served as treasurer and later president of the Eastern States Sign Council. In his last year as president, the Eastern States Sign Council, which had previously been a regional group, became known nationally as the United States Sign Council. Anatole won many awards statewide and nationally for his beautiful signs and artwork.

Anatole will be remembered not only for his kindness and character, but also for his lively sense of humor that brought smiles to those around him. In his younger days, he embraced adventure, finding joy in snowmobiling, skiing, and riding his Harley. He cherished time with family and friends spent boating on Lake Winnipesaukee, creating lasting memories on the water. A true enthusiast at heart, Anatole also took great pride in refurbishing his 1955 orange Chevy Nomad, a reflection of his dedication, craftsmanship, and love for classic treasures. His attention to detail and masterful touch were unparalleled.

Anatole and his wife, Madelyn, loved to travel. They visited many places abroad, including South Africa, France, Italy, Ireland, England, Mexico, Canada and various Caribbean islands. One of their favorite adventures was traveling on the Orient Express from Venice to Paris.

Annie leaves behind his beloved wife of 21 years, Madelyn; daughter, Belonie Grant and husband, Tim, of Biddeford, Maine; daughter, Danielle Paquette-Horne and husband, Ryan, of Campton, NH; stepdaughter, Meredith Newell of Indialantic, Florida; stepson, Wesley Newell and wife, Hope, of Pass Christian, MS and his granddaughters, Emily and Ellis, who loved their Pepe’ dearly. He also leaves his brother, Tom Paquette and wife, Penny, of Leesburg, FL and his sister, Colleen Blood and partner, Matt, of Grand Isle, VT. Annie will be missed by countless cousins, nieces, nephews, in-laws, and friends. He was predeceased by his brother, J. Stewart Paquette and his sister, Constance Madore.

Anatole will be remembered for his steady presence, creative spirit, and the love he gave so freely to his family and friends. His legacy lives on in the lives he touched and the memories he created.

A graveside service will be held on June 28, 2026, at noon in the Meredith Cemetery in New Hampshire. A celebration of life will follow at Hart’s Turkey Farm.

Riemann Family Funeral Home, Long Beach, is honored to serve the family. An online guestbook may be signed and memories shared at www.riemannfamily.com .

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Parkinson’s Foundation or the Alzheimer’s Association.

Rock N' Roll with Anatole!