Director of Music for NR schools
Published October 22, 2020
NASHUA, N.H. — Harold L. Weisse Jr., 89, of Nashua, N.H., formerly of North Reading, died peacefully at home surrounded by his family on Saturday, October 17, 2020. He’s now directing the choir of heavenly angels, just as he did on earth.
Growing up in Dorchester, Mass., Harold graduated from Boston English High School, then Boston University with a degree in Music Education. After working briefly as a draftsman for both Raytheon and Honeywell, he realized his dream of becoming a music educator in North Reading. He began as a part-time music teacher and ultimately Director of Music for the North Reading school district; a position he held until his retirement after 36 years of dedicated service.
During the course of his distinguished musical career, his concert and marching bands, choruses and jazz bands consistently garnered awards and accolades throughout New England and beyond.
He also directed some of the finest high school musical theater productions in Massachusetts, working with student singers and pit orchestras to create top notch performances every spring.
More importantly, Harold’s musical legacy lives on in the many NRHS alumni who have gone on to have successful music careers themselves, as well as those who continue to nurture the love of music that was instilled in them under his patient and experienced tutelage.
Harold was also an accomplished musician himself, playing piano and bass in numerous local bands in the Boston area as a member of AFM Local 126.
In addition, Harold served in the Army National Guard from 1955–1964 as Chief Warrant Officer, directing the 26th Division Band of Massachusetts.
An Eagle Scout, Harold was also an avid outdoorsman, spending summers hiking and camping throughout the Northeast with his family. After retirement, he continued these exploits even further afield, traveling with the Road Scholars lifelong learning program both at home and overseas.
Harold is survived by his daughter, Susan Powers-Fitzpatrick (Sean), his son Steven (Carol) and his daughter Wendy Burbine (Darren); grandchildren Alexandra (aka Sasha) and Adam Weisse, Kaitlin Powers, Michael Burbine Jr., Harold Burbine and Victoria Burbine, and great-grandson Jayce Powers. He was predeceased by his former wife Annette, cherished companion Irene Gordon, and good friend Tom Ahern.
The family would like to thank Dr. Peter Lundquist, Visiting Angels, and the Amedysis Hospice team for their unparalleled care. We would also like to thank the First Baptist Church of Nashua for all of their love and support. They were truly like family to him.
Arrangements are by the Croswell Funeral Home, 19 Bow Street, North Reading. To leave an online message of condolence, please visit www.croswellfuneralhome.com. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, funeral plans will be announced at a later date.
