71-year-old missing Massachusetts man found deceased in river, remembered for faith and strong work ethic

The deceased man who was recovered from the Merrimack River on the night of Wednesday, April 3 has been identified the Office of Essex County District Attorney Paul Tucker announces.

The Lawrence Police Department received a call at approximately 6:35 p.m. on April 3 from a resident of the 50 Island Street Apartments with a view of the Merrimack River. The caller stated they believed a person was being taken down river by the current.

The North Andover Fire Department responded and launched a boat and, at approximately 7:21 p.m., recovered Leon Langlais, 71, of Lowell, Mass., from the river north of the Amazon facility in North Andover, immediately noting obvious signs of death. Firefighters estimate that they retrieved Langlais in the Haverhill portion of the Merrimack River.

Langlais was reported missing and is believed to be last seen alive on January 24th in the area of Burnham Rd., off of outer Andover St. in Lowell.

An obituary states that that Langlais “passed away following a tragic accident.”

“He took pride in his work and was known for his reliability and strong work ethic. A true Boston sports fan, Leo enjoyed cheering on all the local teams. He loved spending time at home and especially treasured time with his grandchildren. For many years, he coached youth soccer in Lowell, generously giving his time to support and encourage young athletes. His faith was important to him—he was a longtime communicant of Holy Trinity Church and later the Immaculate Conception Church.”

On Sunday, April 13, 2025, Langlais’ calling hours will be held from 2 pm until 6 pm at the McDonough Funeral Home, 14 Highland Street, Lowell, MA. On Monday April 14, 2025 his funeral will begin at the funeral home at 9 am. His Funeral Mass will be offered at 10 am at the Immaculate Conception Church, 144 East Merrimack, Street, Lowell, MA. Burial will take place in Saint Joseph Cemetery in Chelmsford.

The incident is under investigation by the Massachusetts State Police Detective Unit assigned to Tucker’s office. The cause and manner of death will be determined by the Massachusetts Office of the Chief Medical Examiner.