State Rep. Charlie St. Clair, the longtime head of Laconia Motorcycle Week, has died from injuries he suffered in a motorcycle accident in Ohio earlier this month.
For the past 35 years, St. Clair was executive director of the festival traditionally known as Bike Week. He also served on Laconia’s Planning Board.
Born and raised in Laconia, he was known far and wide for his stewardship of Bike Week and his love of motorcycling.
For 50 years, he would ride his Harley-Davidson Heritage Softtail Classic crosscountry to attend Laconia’s sister rally in Sturgis, South Dakota. He was on his way to Sturgis when he crashed due to a tire issue.
“It is with profound sadness that we share the heartbreaking news that Charlie passed away on August 22nd after suffering catstrophic injuries from his August 4th accident,” read a statement from the Laconia Motorcycle Week Association posted Saturday. “Despite every effort, his injuries were too severe, and he ultimately passed away from heart failure.”
“Charlie is incredibly fortunate to have so many friends and family. To everyone who called, prayed, sent messages/cards, and surrounded Charlie with so much love and positive energy, we cannot thank you enough for being there for him and for us.”
St. Clair owned Laconia Antique Center in downtown Laconia, and was active in community affairs. He previously served in the New Hampshire House from 2017 to 2020, and tapped his experience as a member of the House Transportation Committee.
Elected leaders, from Laconia Mayor Mike Bordes to Gov. Kelly Ayotte, issued tributes to St. Clair and condolences to his family and friends.
