New England’s Architectural community has lost an inspiring leader and dear friend. Donald Lavallee died on March 24, 2017, following an extended illness.
Lavallee Brensinger was founded by Donald Lavallee and started, with several mentees, in the attic of a house on Webster Street in Manchester, NH. It has since grown to include thriving offices in Manchester, Boston, and Portland. We want to share with you the powerful role Don had in shaping our firm and the legacy he has entrusted us to maintain.
Barry Brensinger and Fred Urtz, his longtime business partners and friends, recall a few of Don’s finest attributes:
- Don was consistently happy. When he stepped in a room, it lit up with smiles.
- Don was empathetic. He always took time to learn and care about those around him. We have enjoyed hundreds of thoughtful conversations with Don and they were almost never about him. They were always about others and how he could help.
- Don was astute. He had a natural sense for seeing and doing what was right. His business sense led to smart decisions and his integrity ensured that we could move forward without fear of compromise or regret.
- Don was purposeful. Superficially, he seemed relaxed and carefree. Inside, he cared deeply about our team, our work, and our community. In ways big and small, he was always doing his best to make things better, and inspired others to do the same.
We have lost a truly inspirational individual. For those of us lucky enough to know Don, his influence and memories will always be with us.
A scholarship fund has been established at the New Hampshire chapter of the American Institute of Architects. Donation information is available at this link or by emailing nhaf@aianh.org