Barbara R. (Hellner) Belford

West Roxbury, MA - Barbara R. (Hellner) Belford, 86, of Laconia, NH, passed away on December 10, 2009 at her daughter’s home after a long illness. Mrs. Belford was the daughter of the late Charles and Lillian Hellner of Tampa, FL and formerly of Waltham, MA. Born in Roslindale, MA, she grew up in Waltham, MA. She married the late Dr. Charles H. Belford, of Laconia, NH. They moved to Old Deerfield, MA, where he practiced veterinary medicine and raced sled dogs. Dr. Belford taught his wife all she needed to know to become his assistant in both his practice and hobby.

Mrs. Belford traveled extensively with her husband during the sled dog racing season throughout New England, Canada and Alaska. She leaves behind two daughters, Virginia Gass of West Roxbury, MA and Paula Belford of Marlborough, MA. She also leaves two grandchildren, Jesse and Jonathon Gass, both of New York City, and a nephew, Steven Bolter, of Palm Coast, FL.

A memorial service and burial will take place in the spring in Laconia, NH.

Wilkinson-Beane-Simoneau-Paquette Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 164 Pleasant Street, Laconia, N. H. is in charge of the arrangements.