Gilford Community Mourns 32-Year-Old Miles Alexander Collette
GILFORD, New Hampshire — The Belknap County community is grieving the passing of Miles Alexander Collette, 32, who passed away on Saturday, September 12, 2026, in the Lakes Region. As reported in regional central New Hampshire community notices, including updates monitored by The Laconia Daily Sun, relatives and friends are gathering to honor his life, resilience, and adventurous spirit.
GILFORD, New Hampshire — The Belknap County community is grieving the passing of Miles Alexander Collette, 32, who passed away on Saturday, September 12, 2026, in the Lakes Region. As reported in regional central New Hampshire community notices, including updates monitored by The Laconia Daily Sun, relatives and friends are gathering to honor his life, resilience, and adventurous spirit.
Early Life and Personal History
Born on March 10, 1994, to Deirdre Connelly and Robert Collette, Miles grew up in the Gilford area. During childhood, he survived a severe motor vehicle collision that left him in a ten-day coma, earning him the affectionate community nickname "Miracle Miles" for his determination and full recovery.
Interests & Hobbies: Enthusiastic power-sports operator who enjoyed dirt biking, snowmobiling, riding motorcycles, and operating heavy machinery.
Community Character: Remembered by peers for his inclusive personality, quick humor, and leadership among friends and extended family.
Surviving Family
Mr. Collette is survived by his mother, Deirdre; his father, Rob; his stepfather, Tony; his stepmother, Tina; his grandmother, Becky; his siblings, Seamus, Patrick, Alyssa, and Fallon; alongside numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, and lifelong friends across the Lakes Region.
Services and Memorial Arrangements
Formal calling hours and memorial events have been arranged through Wilkinson-Beane-Simoneau-Paquette Funeral Home:
Public Visitation: Scheduled for Friday, September 18, 2026, at Wilkinson-Beane-Simoneau-Paquette Funeral Home in Laconia, New Hampshire.
Celebration of Life: To be held on Saturday, September 19, 2026, outdoors at Gilford Beach along Lake Winnipesaukee.
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