Niles F. Nelson

retired funeral director and former owner, Nelson and Vial Funeral Home, Libby, Montana, died April 19, 2026, at age 73.

Nelson attended the California College of Mortuary Science in Los Angeles, California. After obtaining his license, he associated with
Geraghty Funeral Home and Livingston & Malletta Funeral Directors. He then returned to his hometown of Libby and served as a funeral director for Vial Funeral Homes for 16 years. Upon purchase by Nelson, the funeral home became Nelson and Vial Funeral Home. After retirement, Nelson traveled, filling in for Montana funeral directors when needed. He also served as deputy coroner and coroner of Lincoln County for 18 years. 

Nelson served two terms as both board member and chair of the Montana State Board of Funeral Service. He was a member of the Montana Coroners Association, Montana Funeral Directors Association, American Society of Embalmers, and Cremation Association of North America. He was also a lifetime member of the University of Montana (UM) Alumni Association and member of the UM Alumni Band. Nelson was active as a board member and trustee of Recovery Northwest and St. John’s Lutheran Hospital, as well.

Nelson is survived by wife Bobbie, children Dale and Christopher, and six grandchildren.

Eric P. Rochette

funeral director and owner, Rochette Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Nashua, New Hampshire, died May 12, 2026, at age 55.

Rochette began his career in funeral service by working alongside his father at the former Anctil-
Rochette & Son Funeral Home in Nashua. Later, he purchased the firm and became a second-generation funeral home owner.

Rochette served as a New Hampshire state representative for his district. He also served on the New Hampshire State Board of Funeral Directors and Embalmers.

Music was one of his greatest joys. He was a member of the Actor-
singers of Nashua. He enjoyed baseball and basketball, as well, and served as an umpire for Cal Ripken Baseball in Nashua.

Rochette is survived by wife Deanna, parents Paul and Louise, and sister Kristen. 

Joseph D. Schiavone

funeral director and co-owner, Schiavone Funeral Home, Youngstown, Ohio, died April 14, 2026, at age 85.

Schiavone earned an associate degree from Youngstown State University and completed his studies at the Pittsburgh Institute of Mortuary Science. In recognition of his contributions to the community, he was nominated for Brier Hill Man of the Year in 2026. He was also a member of Saint Anthony of Padua Church.

He is survived by sons Brian and Edward, daughter Elaina, and three granddaughters.