Denis J. Maltais

Denis J. “Denny” Maltais passed away peacefully on September 20, 2025. He was surrounded by many family members and friends in his final days.

Born on June 24, 1953, in Manchester, NH, Denny was the son of Joseph G. and Lillian (Roy) Maltais. His father, Joseph, was well known across Manchester as the longtime host of the Franco-American Hour, a radio program he led for more than 45 years. He also served four terms as Hillsborough County Registrar of Deeds. His mother, Lillian, was the heart of the family, and in her final years Denny devoted himself to her care with extraordinary love and sacrifice, well beyond the call of duty.

Denny graduated from Manchester Central High School in 1971 and went on to attend Plymouth State College. As a young man, he became a familiar figure in neighborhoods throughout Manchester, driving a Hood ice cream truck and earning the fond nickname, the “Ice Cream Man.”

Denny’s career in the sign industry spanned more than five decades, marked by his natural warmth, easy way with people, and dedication to craft. He began in 1971 at Jutras Signs in Manchester, where he apprenticed under old-world craftsmen and learned every aspect of sign-making—from pattern cutting and hand lettering to neon fabrication and custom finishes. Over 12 years he rose to production manager, leading crews and overseeing day-to-day manufacturing.

He next joined Barlo Signs of Hudson, NH, where he expanded his skills in production and IT before moving on to Tri-State Signs in Derry, NH. There, he played a key role in building the company and helping to create award-winning handcrafted signs admired throughout the region.

In 1993, Denny returned to Barlo Signs in a new capacity as salesman. His deep technical knowledge and creative vision translated into a remarkable sales career. By combining design expertise with a personal touch, he guided projects from concept to completion for businesses, architects, and contractors across New England. Over the course of his sales career, Denny achieved more than $26 million in sales since 1998, and he often reminded those around him—with well-earned pride—that he was regularly the top, or near the top, sales performer. His reputation was so well-known in the industry that his car proudly bore the license plate SIGNGUY1.

In 2018, Denny joined Classic Signs of NH, where he continued to bring distinctive, well-crafted signage to life with the same dedication to excellence that defined his career. He retired in early 2025, closing a professional journey that reflected both craftsmanship and creativity.

Though highly regarded in business, Denny’s truest passion was music. From his first guitar lessons with Gerry Kearney of WGIR fame, he set out on a lifelong journey as a performer, songwriter, producer, and mentor. He was a founding member of most of the bands he performed in, including the Javis Miles Band, The Valiant Trio, The Convertibles, and most recently Blacklite. With The Convertibles, he and his bandmates started a label called Landfill Records and released a 45 that found airplay on Boston’s WBCN.

In addition to performing, Denny created a space for music to flourish in Manchester when he founded Shooting Star Recording Studio, later known as Madman Digital Recording Studio. There he came alive as a producer and engineer, playing guitar, bass, keyboards, and vocals on countless recordings. He was especially proud of contributing to albums like The Lady in the Doorway by Beverly Rush, as well as projects for many New England musicians.

Music was not just something Denny played; it was how he expressed himself, a lifelong dream he never abandoned. Through music and performing he encouraged others and built friendships that lasted a lifetime.

Those who knew Denny remember not only his talent but his extraordinary humor. He wasn’t just funny—he was hilarious. With comic timing as sharp and creative as any standup, he could bring a room to its knees in stomach-splitting laughter. Standup could have been another career. His sense of humor was a gift, and like his music, it was something he shared generously. He even liked to refer to himself as “The Big D,” a reflection of his larger-than-life personality.

Denny is survived by his brothers: Phillippe J.G. Maltais and wife Sheryl of Stratham, NH; Ronald E. Maltais of Las Vegas, NM; John R. Maltais and wife Jenny of St. George, ME; and Mark A. Maltais of New York, NY. He is also survived by his former wife, Lyne (Maltais) Morin of Colorado. His extended family includes five nephews, a niece, a grandniece, and a grandnephew. He was predeceased by his parents, Joseph and Lillian Maltais of Manchester, NH, and his sister, Suzanne M. Karatzas of Nahant, MA.

Denny was blessed with many guardian angels throughout his life—especially Judy, Bill, Michelle, Dave, Jimmy, Jen, and Ray—among others, whose love, friendship, and support enriched his journey. The family wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude to the doctors, nurses, and staff at CMC for the valiant medical efforts and compassionate care Denny received in his time of need.

A wake to remember Denny will be held at Lambert Funeral Home, 1799 Elm Street, Manchester, NH, on Friday, October 3, from 3–7 PM. During visiting hours, a family reading will be shared at 6:00 PM. A celebration of Denny’s life will take place at a later date, with details to be announced. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to a charity of one’s choice.