Alan "Al" Neal Desmettre, 70, of Pelham, NH died Monday, Jan. 8 at Lowell General Hospital.

Alan, who grew up in Lawrence, Mass., was born to Irene and Ernest Desmettre on Sept. 2, 1953. Alan is survived by brothers John and Daniel. Through the last years of Alan's life, Daniel cared for him daily.

A lover of all things mechanical and a fixer of most anything, Alan spent his professional life (and plenty of his downtime) working at Galaxie Central Vacuum Systems and RGA Tire & Auto Repair.

Alan tried married and family life a couple times, then found his most lasting love with Cynthia "Missy" Atkinson, by whom he was predeceased in 2017. His marriages and relationships produced four children: Denise Lynn, Thomas Desmettre, Allison Collins, and Jacyln Carrier, who predeceased him. He is survived by seven grandchildren, a niece, and a nephew, and was predeceased by another nephew. He is further survived by many extended family members and friends.

Alan will be remembered for his big stature and bigger heart. A consummate friend, he was known for dropping anything to give of his time, know-how, or pig-roasting skills. Alan was happiest on the back of his Harley, with Missy riding alongside. Though often quiet, when he spoke in his low, heavily New England-accented voice, it was to share real wisdom. Alan loved puzzles and parrots, big belt buckles and the beach. He had a knack for seeing things others missed: sand dollars, bird's nests, the way things work and fit together. He loved dining out with friends and family, especially for weekend breakfasts. Friends will reminisce about his sense of mischief. The glint in his brown eyes was contagious, frequent, and always promised fun, though he harbored a tender side, and was fond of giving rib-cracking bear hugs. Alan loved road trips, snowmobiling, hot-air balloons, water skiing, boating, his ever-present mustache, and animals. There was no dare he wouldn't take, yet to be with him was to know he would care for and keep you safe.

Friends and family are invited to calling hours from 1:00 to 4:00 PM on Friday, January 19th at the Carrier Family Funeral Home, 38 Range Road, Windham, NH. A Funeral Service will begin at 4:00 PM. To leave an online message of condolence, please visit: www.carrierfuneralhome.com.