Alfred 'Popeye' Frechette

Published Date

Alfred 'Popeye' FrechetteAlfred "Popeye" Frechette, 81, of Conway, passed away on Wednesday, July 5, 2012 at his home.

He was born in Conway and was a lifelong resident of the valley. He worked for his father, Archie at Jellison Coal in his early years, and later with Rick Valladeres logging. From there He started hauling for Meers Heal Mill and later became a heavy equipment operator for R.G. Watkins and R.S. Audley.

In the mid 60s he opened Fred's Variety, the first convenience store in Conway, also known as Popeye's, which he owned for 10 years. After selling the store he operated his own excavation and land development business until his retirement. In retirement he spent winters relaxing in Florida with his loving companion Joan and spent his summers in Conway. He loved to attend auctions and would travel all over New England looking for good deals; buying and selling; a true entrepreneur "horse trader."

Some of his best years were spent with his family and friends at his property on Leavitt Bay-Ossipee Lake. He loved spending time with his children and grandchildren. His proudest moments were watching them all compete in football, baseball, hockey, swim meets and stock car races. He enjoyed watching NASCAR and was a fan of the Patriots and the Red Sox, as well the outdoor sports hunting and fishing.
He was a member of Redman's as well as the Elks Lodge 2055. Throughout his life he developed many friendships and business relationships, and left lasting memories and life lessons to those who knew him well. We will miss his unique character; there will never be another like him, Hm-Ha.

The family includes: his companion, Joan Lyman, of Albany; five sons, Timothy Frechette and his wife, Jane, of Seabrook, Dale Frechette, of Conway, Allan Frechette and his wife, Lisa, of Albany, Bruce Frechette, of Conway, and Todd Frechette and his wife, Elaine, of Albany; two daughters, Karen St.Clair, of Conway, and Maureen Proulx and her husband, Andre, of Culpepper, Va.; 16 grandchildren; 17 great-grandchildren; three brothers, Roger Frechette of North Conway, Leon Frechette of Allenstown and Maurice Frechette and his wife Patricia of North Conway and several nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by two siblings, Rita Garland in 2001 and Edgar Frechette in 2005.

A celebration of life will be held Wednesday, July 11, from 1 to 4 p.m. at Merlino's Steak House in North Conway. There will be no visiting hours. Private burial will be in the High Street Cemetery in Albany.

Donations may be made to the charity of your choice.

The Furber and White Funeral in North Conway is in charge of arrangements.