Garrett Martin Maguire, 21
Proud of his Irish heritage; avid sportsman

ASHBURNHAM - Garrett Martin Maguire, 21, beloved son of Dennis M. and Linda (Quinn) Maguire, died Sunday, April 27, 2008, in Ashburnham.

Garrett was born in Bellevue, Wash., on March 11, 1987, and was raised in Alaska before moving to Ashburnham six years ago. He was a 2005 graduate of Oakmont Regional High School. After high school, he attended Mount Wachusett Community College and in 2007 he traveled to Australia spending a semester abroad through the University of Utah with the National Outdoor Leadership School.

Recently, Garrett worked as a steeplejack with his family, restoring steeples with Higher Ground Restoration Co. of Charlotte, N.C. Garrett's Irish heritage was woven into the fabric of his life on many levels and he was always a great source for a bit of lore, a piece of history or a good joke. In fact, Garrett dreamed of owning and operating his very own Irish pub one day. He was quick witted and sharp tongued and was never one to relinquish a debate. Garrett utilized his expansive knowledge and intelligence to delight and challenge those around him. His library remained impressive and his ability to synthesize diverse thoughts and ideas into cohesive and versed logical arguments kept those that loved him on their toes and amazed at the strength of his mind. Garrett would often engage you in conversation about the political and economic realties of the world, world events in general and how they connected. Despite his solid posture, a warm smile was never far away from his lips and consistently thoughtful deeds conveyed the love that dwelled within him.

Garrett was an avid sportsman, hunting and fishing the waters and woods of New England to Alaska. Due to his Uncle Steve's great influence, Garrett was quite proficient at archery and local hunting. He was a prolific reader, often holding a classic in one hand and a dictionary in the other. Garrett often proclaimed that you couldn't possibly understand what the writer had written if you didn't understand what the writer had said. On off days, Garrett could be found with friends or family rooting for whichever New England team was in season, espousing knowledge of each sport and individual players usually reserved for coaches and recruits. Garrett's chess game knew few equals and his aggressive unrelenting style defined many aspects of his life. He played pool, enjoyed water-skiing, loved gardening and took great joy in helping his grandfather care for the roses on his property.

Besides his loving parents, Dennis M. and Linda (Quinn) Maguire of Ashburnham, Garrett will be sadly missed by his brothers; Brendan J. Maguire of Anchorage, Alaska and John D. Maguire of Ashburnham; his grandparents, John Douglas Quinn of Ashburnham and Ralph and Lorraine Gaston of Leominster and countless aunts, uncles, cousins and friends whose lives he has enriched.

Lamoureux-Fletcher Community Funeral Home of Gardner directed arrangements.