Wesley I. Staples

Wesley graduated from Walpole High School in 1951 and soon joined the U.S. Army, where he served for three years, including a posting in West Germany where he bought a camera and then brought home photographs of the countryside and its castles and entertained gatherings with his slide show. After embracing the discipline and camaraderie of military life, he returned home and became an integral part of the community with his contracting business in earth-moving. Wesley then served as Westmoreland's road agent for 35 years with a steadfast commitment to the town's infrastructure and well-being. His dedication to public service extended beyond the roads as he also served as an assistant fire chief, a selectman, and a member of the planning board.

After retiring, Wesley continued to contribute to the community by teaching at the road grading school, sharing his skill, knowledge, and experience with the younger generation, and he resumed his contracting work. He was a devout member of the United Church of Christ in Westmoreland, where he participated actively in the church.

Wesley had a passion for maple sugaring, a hobby that connected him with the woods and with the community that visited him in the sugar house during sap runs. His love for the outdoors was evident in the care and dedication he put into his craft.

He was preceded in death by his first wife, Nancy Staples, brothers Robert and Philip, and sisters Caroline and Marilyn. Wesley is survived by his wife, Marion Caroline Staples; his son Charles Staples and daughter-in-law Theresa; grandsons Christopher Snow and Joshua Staples; and sisters Patricia Bentrup and Charlotte Staples, stepsons Mark Simino, Christopher Simino and James Simino.

Wesley's life was marked by dedication to his family, his country, and his community. He will be remembered for his strong work ethic, his service, and his gentle spirit. Wesley's legacy will live on through the many lives he touched and the projects he spearheaded in his community.

Calling hours will be held on Friday, November 15th from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm at Fletcher Funeral Home, 33 Marlboro Street, Keene, NH. A funeral service will be held on Saturday, November 16th at 10:00 am at Westmoreland United Church, 9 South Village Common, Westmoreland, NH. Burial will follow at Village Cemetery in Westmoreland.