Renowned local building contractor, Philip Lacroix, Jr. of Salem, NH passed away Friday, April 27th surrounded by his children and loving family following a long illness at the age of 77.

Phil was born and raised in Lawrence, MA, the son of Bernadette (Mignault) and Philip Lacroix. He was a graduate of Central Catholic High School and later, Fisher Junior College, majoring in business. After honorably serving in the National Guard and Army Reserves, Phil applied and was appointed to the US Navy as a CB Master Builder and eventually promoted to CPO in direct support to combat Marine service units serving in central and north Vietnam. During his tenure he earned many commendations and awards as well as injuries that would eventually contribute to his passing. On completion of his service, he returned to work for the family business, eventually taking the helm of Phil Lacroix and Sons, Inc. from his father in 1978. Soon after, he established himself and his company as a legendary contractor in the Merrimack Valley spanning more than three decades, servicing a five-generation clientele before his ill health forced his retirement in 2011.

Phil was loved and will always be remembered for his whimsical and upbeat demeanor both personally and professionally. He enjoyed time spent with his family, gardening, cooking, and boating on his beloved Arlington Pond.

Phil was predeceased by his sweetheart wife, Shirley Ann (Ball) Lacroix in 1980, mother, father and brothers Alfred Lacroix and Philip Ronald Lacroix. He will be fondly missed by his brother, Russell J. Lacroix, sons, Philip M. and wife, Susan with whom he resided, Mark and wife, Linda, Thomas and wife Karen all of Salem, NH and by his grandchildren Matthew Lacroix of Stoughton, MA, Andrew Lacroix of Saint Petersburg, FL, Brandon and Rachel Lacroix of Salem, NH, Thomas Lacroix, Jr. of Salem, NH Christopher Lacroix of Haverhill, MA, Patrick and Kate Lacroix, of Salem, NH. He is also survived by his cherished great-granddaughter, Emmy Lacroix, of Stoughton, and several cousins, nieces and nephews.

Phil also adored many children who called him "Papa", especially Kira, Bryan and Aubrie Proctor of Goffstown, NH.

Calling hours will be held on Friday, May 4th from 4 -8 pm, at Douglas and Johnson Funeral Home, 214 Main Street, Salem with an additional calling hour on Saturday, May 5th from 9 – 10 am. A memorial service will begin at 10 a.m. Saturday in the funeral home. Internment with military honors will follow at Sacred Heart cemetery in Lawrence, MA. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to any Veterans charity of choice. Please visit the following link for a list of organizations recognized by the VA: https://www.va.gov/vso/VSO-Directory.pdf.