of Craftsbury, 66, died on April 23, 2015, in Charlestown, New Hampshire. She was the daughter of Robert and Elizabeth Merrill. After graduating in a class of ten students at Craftsbury Academy, she attended the University of Vermont. She graduated cum laude and Phi Beta Kappa in 1971. For over 20 years she was a secretary at Fletcher Allen Health Care in Burlington. Later, she did volunteer driving for senior citizens and was a private duty caregiver. As a member of the fourth generation, she worked on the family farm. She spent many happy summers at her camp, which her father built. She belonged to the United Church of Craftsbury, Ladies Union, and Homemakers. She is survived by her sisters: Nancy Merrill and her partner, Robert Lambert, and Jane Linck and her husband, David; her niece Jennifer Linck and her partner, Cedar, and their daughters: Posey and Alice Hannan; her nephew Robert and his son Stig Linck, all of Craftsbury; her uncle and aunt, Everett and Phyllis Merrill of Cobleskill, New York; her aunt Beverly Merrill of LaCrescent, Minnesota; and by several cousins. She also leaves behind three very special longtime friends: Marjorie Stoddard, Fay Waterhouse, and Jean Anderson and their extended families. She was predeceased by her parents; her sister Martha Jenkins; her uncle Leland Merrill; her uncle, aunt, and cousin: John, Jane Ellen, and Martin Wehncke. A memorial service will be held on June 27 at 2 p.m. at the United Church of Craftsbury on Craftsbury Common. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the United Church of Craftsbury, care of Cheryl Bailey, Treasurer, 181 Collinsville Road, Craftsbury, Vermont 05826; or to a charity of one’s choice.

of St. Johnsbury died on April 16, 2015. He was son of Gerald Michaud and Joanne Martin of Greenbush, Maine, born on May 3, 1977. He is survived by his parents; his uncle Reggie Michaud of New Britain; his cousins; and by many friends who tried to provide for him these last few years. His aunt Sheila Michaud of Glenburn, Maine, died the day after him. He was predeceased by his uncles: George Michaud of New Britain, Connecticut, and Dennis Michaud of St. Johnsbury. A memorial gathering will take place at Catamount Arts in St. Johnsbury on Sunday, June 7, from 2 to 5 p.m. A potluck meal will be shared.

, 66, of Holden, Massachusetts, died peacefully, with his loving family by his side, on Thursday, April 9, 2015, at the Jewish Healthcare Center in Worcester, Massachusetts, after a courageous battle with cancer. Born in Worcester, he was son of Walter and Virginia (Johnson) DeWitt and lived several years in Shrewsbury, Massachusetts, before moving to Holden in the late 1960s. He graduated from Wachusett Regional High School in Holden and attended Worcester State College and the University of Massachusetts in Amherst. He began his career working for the town of Holden’s Department of Public Works in 1971 at the age of 22. He worked his way through the ranks and held the position of highway foreman before being appointed Holden’s first director of operations for the Department of Public Works. He was an extremely effective leader and managed his department with a “no nonsense” style that earned him the respect of his staff and town officials. He took great pride in his work and empowered his staff to do the same with unwavering dedication and high standards. After his retirement in 2010, he was able to spend much deserved time with his family, especially with his grandchildren. In 1971, he also joined the Holden Fire Department as an on-call firefighter. He spent the next 43 years with his brother firefighters protecting their community with only one thought in mind, “the safety of others.” He served as a lieutenant for a period of time until his position at the Department of Public Works became overwhelmingly demanding. He was thought of as “everyone’s friend,” and was always there to lend a hand. He looked forward to vacationing at his camp in Craftsbury, located on Jones Farm. He especially enjoyed his fishing and hunting trips in Vermont with the boys including his son Steve and closest friend, Jim Oberg, who died unexpectedly in February. He leaves his wife and soulmate of 45 years, Georgianna (Angelo) DeWitt; two sons: Christopher M. Angelo and his companion, Amy Quinlan, and her two children, Jack and Caroline, of Charlton, Massachusetts, and Steven H. DeWitt and his wife, Jennifer, of Holden; two daughters: Nicholette and her husband, Alvin Cunningham, of Fairfield, California, and Melissa A. Wackell of Leicester, Massachusetts; a sister, Elaine Morrison, and her husband, John, of Charlton; nine grandchildren: Demetri, Danielle, and Noelle Angelo, Julieanne and Matthew Cunningham, Katelynn Wackell, and Ethan, Molly, and Owen DeWitt; and by a former son-in-law, Joseph Wackell, of Holden, and daughter-in-law Lisa Angelo of Worcester. A brother, Steven DeWitt, predeceased him. Funeral services were held on April 18, in Holden. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made the Holden Fire Explorer Program, 1370 Main Street, Holden, Massachusetts 01520.

, 86, of Island Pond died peacefully on April 16, 2015, in Marietta, Georgia. She was born on August 28, 1928, in Island Pond to Clifton and Sylvia (Cross) Powers. On May 3, 1950, she married John Dufour, who predeceased her on September 1, 1982. In 1946, she graduated from St. Mary’s Academy in Island Pond. She worked at the Community National Bank in Island Pond for over 26 years from 1962 to 1988, when she retired. She was a life member of the American Legion Auxiliary Post #80, where she was president for one year and treasurer for 33 years. She was also a life member of both the Veterans of Foreign Wars Auxiliary #2309 and the Disabled American Veterans Auxiliary. She was treasurer for the Essex County American Cancer Society for 20 years. She is survived by her children: Mark and his wife, Kelly Dufour, of Watertown, Massachusetts, Eric Dufour and his partner, Andrew Sawyer, of Asbury Park, New Jersey, Christian and his wife, Marlys Dufour, of Westminster, Colorado, and Susan and her husband, Jonathan Steele, of Kennesaw, Georgia; her grandchildren: Marquelle Dufour of Watertown, Nicholette Davis of Leadville, Colorado, Andrew Dufour of Lawrence, Kansas, Erica Duckwall of Kennesaw, Georgia, and Cameron Steele of Vicenza, Italy, who is a specialist in the Army; her siblings: Marion Deslandes of Island Pond, Clifton Powers of Zephyrhills, Florida, Carol Dodge of Island Pond, and Duane Powers of Island Pond; four great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her sister Nathleen Fortin. Friends may call on Friday, May 22, at the Curtis-Britch-Converse-Rushford Funeral Home, at 1199 Railroad Street in Island Pond, from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m., followed by funeral services at 11 a.m. at St. James Catholic Church in Island Pond, where a Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated. Interment will follow in Lakeside Cemetery in Island Pond. Should friends desire, in lieu of flowers, contributions in her memory may be made to American Legion Auxiliary Post #80, Children and Youth Fund, P.O. Box 170, Island Pond, Vermont 05846.

, 80, formerly of Morgan died on April 30, 2015, in New Bedford, New Hampshire. She was born on February 21, 1935, in Morgan, to Telesphore and Lucia (Plante) Guillette. On June 11, 1966, she married Damien Couture, who predeceased her in 2005. She was also predeceased by her daughter Rachel in 2011. She was a self-employed seamstress sewing drapes and upholstery. She was a Eucharistic minister at St. Benedict’s Catholic Church in West Charleston and enjoyed being a part of the church community. She also loved gardening. She is survived by her daughter Michelle Couture of Manchester, New Hampshire; her grandchildren: Abigail and Benjamin Longtin, both of Manchester; her siblings: Arthur Guillette and his wife, Linda, of Connecticut, Telesphore Guillette of Connecticut, Ernest Guillette and his wife, Sylvia, of Connecticut, and Cecil Card of Connecticut; and by several nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her brothers: Leonard, Camile, and Henry; and by her sisters: Angela, Jean, Mary, Anable, and Yvette. Funeral services were held on May 4, in Derby Line. Interment will take place at a later date at St. Edward’s Catholic Cemetery in Derby Line.

, 79, of Acton, Massachusetts, died on Thursday, April 30, 2015, at the E.N. Rogers Memorial VA Hospital in Bedford, Massachusetts, after a stoic battle with ALS (Lou Gehrig’s Disease). Born in Merrimac, Massachusetts, he spent his formative years in Manchester, New Hampshire, the second child of the late Richard A. and Gertrude (Tremblay) Houle. He graduated from Manchester High School and promptly enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps, serving honorably during the Korean War from 1953 to 1956. Following his discharge, he graduated with honors from St. Anselm’s College in Manchester, with a degree in mathematics, and later earned an advanced degree in mathematics from Boston College. Mr. Houle taught math for many years at Bedford High School in Massachusetts, and enjoyed working summers driving tractor-trailer trucks. He left teaching to pursue a career at Raytheon Corp., where he was a manager in the transportation division at the time of his retirement. A devout Catholic, Mr. Houle was a longtime active member of St. Elizabeth of Hungary Church in Acton. He enthusiastically encouraged his children in pursuing their interests and was the quintessential “hockey dad.” He was an avid reader of American and European history. He enjoyed spending time at and working on the family camp on Lake Willoughby in Westmore, and he was always up for a game of scrabble or dominoes. Mr. Houle was the husband of Hiltrud G. “Hilli” (Spors) Houle, USAF Colonel, Retired, and was the husband of the late Mary Ellen (Gaudreau) Houle, who died in 1996. He is survived by their five children: Stephen P. Houle and his husband, Marc Ming Chan, of Boston, Massachusetts, Kevin J. Houle and his wife, Tracey, of Plattsburgh, New York, Maureen E. Houle of Acton, Gardena M. Abramowitz and her husband, Kris, of Acton, and Jeffrey TN Houle and his wife, Amy, of Maynard, Massachusetts; ten grandchildren: KJ, Tagan, Molly, Sydney, Ethan, Jake, Gram, Harry, Kate and Christopher; three brothers: Richard Houle and his wife, Mary Ellen, of Bedford, New Hampshire, Robert Houle of Hampton, New Hampshire, and Joseph Houle and his wife, Lynn, of Poulsbo, Washington; and by many nieces, nephews, and extended family including his sister-in-law Ursala (Spors) Calvert of Villa Grove, Illinois, and many of Hilli’s family. He was predeceased by his brother Paul Houle and his wife, Janice; and by his sister Simone Houle. Family and friends are invited to visiting hours on Wednesday, May 6, from 4 to 8 p.m. at the Acton Funeral Home in Acton. The funeral Mass will be celebrated Thursday, May 7, at 11 a.m. in St. Elizabeth of Hungary Church in Acton, with military honors to follow at church. Interment in Lakeview Cemetery in Westmore will be at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the hospice program at the E.N. Rogers Memorial VA Hospital in Bedford.

died peacefully at North Country Hospital in Newport on April 29, 2015, at the age of 88. She was born on April 4, 1926, in Neuenhain, Germany, to Martin and Else März. She married Jesse Kimball, a military police officer (MP) in the Army, in 1948. Eventually they settled in Derby, where she worked as a housekeeper for North Country Hospital and her husband began farming. She was a generous and witty individual who loved word searches and who was passionate about baking and chocolate. She took great pleasure in baking large amounts of desserts for her family, especially during the holidays. She was a wonderful great-aunt, whose great-nieces and -nephews adored her immensely. She is survived by her sister Helga Geiss of Derby; and by her nephew Andreas Geiss and his wife, Lisa Geiss, of Newport, Vermont. She was predeceased by her husband, Jesse Kimball, of Derby. Funeral services were held on May 5, at 1 p.m. in Newport. Interment followed at the Derby Center Cemetery. Should friends desire, contributions in her memory may be made to the Mary Wright Halo Foundation, 1071 Upper Quarry Road, Newport, Vermont 05855.

, 26, of Westfield died peacefully on April 29, 2015, at his home, surrounded by his loving family. He was born on January 10, 1989, in Sherbrooke, Quebec, a son of Elizabeth (Myers) and the late Wayne Marrotte. He attended North Country Union High School. He worked on the Roberge family farm in North Troy. He enjoyed four-wheeling, snowmobiling, hunting, fishing, and spending time with his daughter Destiny and family. He will be missed by his dog Mia. He loved life and always had a smile. He made friends easily. He also enjoyed tinkering around the house, and he was a very hard worker and willing to help others in need. He is survived by his beloved daughter Destiny Marrotte of Westfield; his fiancée, Danielle Ahlquist, of Westfield; his mother, Elizabeth Myers-Parker, of Troy; his father Donald Parker, of Troy; his brothers: Erik Parker of Troy, Travis Calloway of Newport, Brandon Brewster of Newport, and Nathan Brewster of Colorado; his sisters: Courtney Parker of Troy, and Samantha Marrotte of Newport; his stepmother Brenda Marrotte of Newport; and by many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and cousins. He was predeceased by his father Wayne Marrotte. Funeral services will be held at 1 p.m. on Wednesday, May 6, at the Curtis-Britch-Converse-Rushford Funeral Home at 4670 Darling Hill Road in Newport. Friends may call from noon on Wednesday until the hour of the service at the funeral home. Interment to follow. Should friends desire, contributions in his memory may be made to the Destiny Marrotte Education Fund, care of Community National Bank, 4811 Route 5, Newport, Vermont 05855.

, 45 of West Charleston died on April 26, 2015, in Brattleboro. He was born on June 26, 1969, in Newport, a son of Earl C. and Beverly (Labounty) Mason. He loved to go fishing, wrestling, lifting weights, and being outdoors. He is survived by his siblings: Ronnie Sheltra of Derby, Brad Sheltra and his wife, Penny, of Ocachobe, Florida, Randy Sheltra of Newport, Joyce Hillis and her friend, Danny Hutchins, of Brattleboro, Linda Marsh of Derby, Earl Mason Jr. of Kissimmee, Florida, and Kevin Mason and his wife, Sue, of Virginia; his girlfriend, Priscilla Peret of North Hampton, Massachusetts; and by numerous aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and cousins. He was predeceased by his parents; and by a half-sister, Peggy Poulin. A graveside service will be held at 2 p.m. on May 22, at the St. Paul’s Catholic Cemetery in Barton, with Paul Essaff officiating. Should friends desire, contributions in his memory be made to Vermont Fish and Wildlife Conservation Group, P.O. Box 207, East Charleston, Vermont 05833.

, 61, of Newport died peacefully on April 25, 2015, in Newport. She was born on April 11, 1954, to Ronald and Beverly (Labounty) Sheltra. On June 19, 1970, she married Donald Poulin Sr., who survives her. She was family oriented and enjoyed spending time with her family. She also enjoyed knitting, crocheting, and she loved all her animals. She is survived by her husband, Donald Poulin Sr., of Newport; her children: Jason and Donald Poulin Jr., both of Newport; her grandchildren: Natasha, Jasmine, Makalia, Bridgett, Maya, Avirex, and Tiana; her siblings: Ronnie Sheltra of Derby, Brad Sheltra and his wife, Penny, of Ocachobe, Florida, Randy Sheltra of Newport, and Joyce Hillis and her friend, Danny Hutchins, of Brattleboro, Linda Marsh of Derby, Earl Mason Jr. of Kissimmee, Florida, Kevin Mason and his wife, Sue, of Virginia, and Cindy Willis and her husband, Todd, of Derby. Her half-brother Johnny Mason died on April 26, 2015. Services will be held at the convenience of the family. Should friends desire, contributions in her memory may be made to the Pope Memorial Frontier Animal Shelter, 502 Strawberry Acres, Newport, Vermont 05855.

, 87, of Newport died peacefully on April 30, 2015, at the Bel-Aire Center in Newport, with her family at her side. She was born on November 14, 1927, in Bethel, a daughter of Edward D. and Ada E. (Pease) Hickey Sr. In 1951, she married John Price, who predeceased her in 1999. She was a member of the American Legion Auxiliary Post #21 of Newport. She enjoyed snowmobiling, bowling, square dancing, going to the family camp on Holland Pond, hunting, and fishing, and she was always ready to give a hand to relatives and friends for any reason. She was a happy, giving, and loving person, especially to family members and also her many friends. She is survived by her sons: Jeff Price and his wife, Mary, of Morgan, David Price of Derby, and Brian Price and his wife, Lucinda, of Ontario, New York; her grandchildren: Beth Price and her companion, George Reed, of Derby, Jason Prue and his wife, Kim, of Newport Center, Jennifer Cook and her husband, Brian, of Newport Center, Jeremy Prue and his wife, Jessica, of Virginia, Merranda Rae Price of Derby Line, Heather Dawn Moulton and her husband, Adam, of Newport Center, Tarin Elizabeth Pratte and her husband, Derek, of Derby Line, Tricia Price and her companion, Jake, of Newmarket, New Hampshire, Gillian Price of New York, and Jessica Lewis and her husband, Jordan, of Newport; her great-grandchildren: Bree Jewer, Jacquelyn and Hunter Prue, Addison Cook, Katelyn, Zoe, Isabella, Lawson, and Easton Prue, Dawson and Connor Oliver, Zoe Wheeler, Jonathan and Danyka Moulton, Quinn and Baylor Pratte, and Jakob and Rhilee Lewis; her sisters: Marion Lawrence and her husband, Donald, of Sharon, Kathy Spenser of South Carolina, Carol Labounty and her companion, Dick Colburn, of New Hampshire, and Cheryl Paradis and her husband, Ken, of Florida; and by many nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by a brother, Dave Hickey. Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. on Friday, May 8, at the Curtis-Britch-Converse-Rushford Funeral Home, at 4670 Darling Hill Road in Newport, with the Reverend Richard Whitehill officiating. Friends may call from 1 p.m. until the hour of the service on Friday at the funeral home. Should friends desire, contributions in her memory made be made to the Bel-Aire Care Center, care of the Activities Fund, 35 Bel-Aire Drive, Newport, Vermont 05855.

, 78, of Newport died on April 29, 2015, in Newport. Services will be held at the convenience of the family.

, 80, of Derby died peacefully on April 22, 2015, at her home in Derby. She was born on August 11, 1934, in Newport, to Stuart and Helen (Livingston) Taylor. On September 10, 1955, she married Rodney Barrup, who survives her. She was a former member of the Stanstead United Church and the Ladies Canusa Unit. She was also a member of the Derby and Morgan United Churches. She was a member of Home Dem, and a strong supporter of United Christian Academy. She and her husband, Rod, ran their farm and milk hauling business, Barrup Farms. They also owned and operated North Country Motors, and Green Mountain Mulch. She worked at Community National Bank as personal secretary to the late Lloyd Selby. She graduated from Derby Academy, and the Vermont Junior College in Montpelier, with an associate’s degree in business. She enjoyed playing the piano, going snowmobiling, spending time at their camp on Lake Seymour, and their home in Florida, as well as going shopping with Janet. She and her husband spent many enjoyable hours at the Elks parties, especially with their Derby friends. She is survived by her husband, Rodney Barrup, of Derby; her children: Janet Barrup Slater and her husband, Robert Slater Jr., and Kevin Barrup and his partner, Pam Harmon, of Derby; her grandchildren: Taylor Gerhart and his partner, Ashley Vinal, Grant Gerhart and his wife, Brooklin, Eric Barrup and his partner, Renee Boudreault, Jessica Russell and her husband, Chris, and Martin Barrup and his wife, Carrie; her nine great-grandchildren; and by her special friend and caretaker, Velma Crowell, who made it possible for her to remain at home through her long battle with cancer. Funeral services were held on April 25, in Morgan. Should friends desire, contributions in her memory may be made to United Christian Academy, 65 School Street, Newport, Vermont 05855.

, 65, of Ormond Beach, Florida, and Vermont, lost his courageous battle with pancreatic cancer, at the VA Hospital in White River Junction, surrounded by his loving family and friends, on Sunday, April 19, 2015. He was the fourth child born to the late Willard “Gus” and Marjorie (Noe) Burdick, on June 20, 1949. He enjoyed a normal childhood, attending Orleans Graded School, and graduating from Orleans High School. One fond memory that he always enjoyed was the fact that his big brother Bernard, kid brother Eddie, and himself all had newspaper routes in Orleans. He and Eddie were lucky to have the Burlington Free Press routes and for a few years enjoyed trips to Boston (for a ball game, as long as it was the Red Sox playing!), and trips to our nation’s capital, Washington, D.C., as well as side trips to Mt. Vernan and Ford’s Theatre. Mr. Burdick proudly served his country in the army, rising to the rank of sergeant. After the service, he took a job at the Burlington Free Press, as district circulation manager, directing nearly 25 percent of the total circulation. Mr. Burdick sold advertising for the Chronicle for five years, and it was here that he started writing. He then went on and finished his career at the Newport Daily Express. He especially enjoyed writing his Kingdom Characters column, which was about local people and their lives. His sister Pat was the first person he wrote about, when she was the cook at the Orleans Senior Center. On October 26, 1968, he married Ida Lyn Chaffee of Albany. Two sons, Willard Andrew and Jonathan Dale, were born to this union, which ended in divorce in 1986. On July 3, 2001, after a long courtship, Mr. Burdick married the love of his life, Cora Ann Carpenter, in a private ceremony in Brownington, at the lookout tower on Prospect Hill. A large public gathering was held at the Albany Town Hall following the ceremony. Mr. Burdick was a member of the American Legion for nearly 50 years, as well as the Disabled American Veterans (he hurt his left leg while firing a 155mm self-propelled Howetzer. He always told people after that not to fire the gun from the hip!). He was a member of the Orleans High School Alumni Association, and served as its president for 18 years. He was always proud of the fact that he got the trophies back to Orleans, and helped with the building with a case to house them as well as the high school yearbooks. These cases were built by Ethan Allen Corp., when Wendall Herman, a fellow alumni, was manager there. In 1973, at the direction of the late Doris Cubit, Mr. Burdick joined Maple Valley Grange #450 of Albany. He worked his way through the chairs, and joined the Prospect Pomona Grange, Vermont State Grange, and the National Grange. In 1980, he hosted the annual Vermont State Grange in Newport! In 1994, sponsored by the late Roy Ingalls, Mr. Burdick joined Central Lodge #62, Free and Accepted Masons, in Irasburg. He worked his way through the “blue lodge” chairs, and was honored by his brothers when he was elected by the district to serve two years as the district deputy grand master for the tenth Mason district of Freemasons of the Grand Republic of Vermont. This was indeed a great honor for him, and he did the best job he could possibly do. He also joined the York Rite Bodies of Vermont, the Tenth Masonic District Past Masters Association, the National Sojourners, Inc. Green Mountain Chapter #527, and the Mount Sinai Shriners of Montpelier. This is the third oldest shrine in the world. Mr. Burdick loved helping people, and for a number of years he worked with small, ten-man prison work crews from St. Johnsbury. In all, his crews were able to repair and paint the Albany Town Hall, the Albany Methodist Church, the old fire station, and the Grange hall on the way into town. They also cut brush around the outside edge of all the cemeteries (seven) in town. In Glover they did the church, the Town Clerk’s Office, the library, and brushwork. In Brownington they replaced the fence around the Village Cemetery, painted the Grange Hall, and cleared brush from all of the cemeteries. (In Brownington Center, the only prisoner to ever escape, walked away through the back of the cemetery. He surrendered!) Many of the buildings at the Orleans County fairgrounds were also repaired and painted. What the prisoners enjoyed most were the cigarettes they got to smoke on break and lunchtime, the delicious meal every Friday to celebrate the week’s work, and Cora Ann’s homemade cookies just about every day. With all of the activities, Mr. Burdick was always happiest spending time with his beloved Cora Ann, and his son Jonathan. Joining them was Jon’s wife, Joanna, and his six grandchildren: Alyssa, Matthew, Austin, Payten, Davan, and Logan. These precious grandchildren were the apple of “Papa’s” eye! He also leaves behind to mourn him, nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, and great-great-nieces and -nephews; 3,000,000 Masonic brothers worldwide; his sisters-in-law: Susan Eileen, Nancy, Mary, Connie, and Tracey; his brother-in-law Paul; and his three “special daughters”: Karen Karlovich, Donna Burdick, and Julie Lavine. He adopted them years ago. He also leaves behind two uncles and one aunt. Although he leaves many friends and family members behind, he leaves special friends: Waldo Potter of Albany, Darlene (Austin) Miles of North Troy and Ormond Beach, Rachel Rose of Barre, and Francoise and Daniel Milea, of Irasburg. He was predeceased by his grandparents, his parents, his siblings, and a baby sister, as well as those already listed. Friends and family will gather at Central Lodge #62, Free and Accepted Masons, on beautiful Irasburg Common, at 10:30 a.m., on Saturday, May 23, for a memorial Masonic service with Grand Chaplin Mike Ford officiating, followed by lunch provided by his brothers at the lodge. Burial, with full military honors, led by CMS Kenneth Johnson, USAF/Retired, will follow at the family lot in Pleasantview Cemetery in Orleans. Mr. Burdick’s nephews, Scott and Michael, will be the bearers of the urn. For those wishing, donations in his honor may be made to the Shriners’ Hospital for Children-Boston, 51 Blossom Street, Boston, Massachusetts, 02114. Please mark the donation. This hospital deals in prosthetics for children, as well as burns.

, 28, of Norwood, Massachusetts, formerly of Newport Center, died peacefully on Sunday, April 12, 2015. Born on May 27, 1986, he was a beloved son of John and Suzanne (Beaucaire) Donnelly of The Villages, Florida; loving brother of Conor Donnelly of Burlington and Garrett Donnelly of Newport Center; the husband of Katerina Donnelly; and the proud father of Joshua Brady Donnelly, both of Walpole, Massachusetts. He was a cherished grandson of Claire (Rogers) Donnelly, with whom he lived in Norwood, the late John Donnelly and the late Donald and Gertrude (Buschenfeldt) Beaucaire; adored nephew of Paula Donnelly and Scott Davis of Marina, California, Mark and Lynda Donnelly of Walpole, and Steven and Deborah Beaucaire of East Bridgewater, Massachusetts; and a dear cousin of Lily Donnelly, Brian Beaucaire, Kerri Besagi and her daughter, Kailyn. Mr. Donnelly graduated from North Country Union High School in Newport with the Class of 2004, where he played soccer and hockey and was a member of the state championship team in 2001. He later graduated from Porter and Chester Institute. He worked in the electrical field for several years while pursuing his professional license. He loved New England sports, and was an especially avid Bruins fan. For almost four years, he was a member of AA, where he actively helped others in their recovery, both in Massachusetts and Vermont. Anyone fortunate enough to have met him knows just how caring he was. Whether lifelong friends or new acquaintances, he always put others first. He had a big heart. Funeral services were held on April 18 in Norwood. Interment was private. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his memory to the Joshua Donnelly Education Fund.

, 98, of St. Albans, formerly of Derby, died on April 22, 2015, in St. Albans. She was born on October 8, 1916, in Derby, to Joseph and Roseanna (Boulet) Pepin. On April 27, 1936, she married Arthur H. Lucas Sr., who predeceased her in 1988. She graduated from Newport High School. Among her hobbies, she enjoyed working in her flower gardens, and feeding the birds. She is survived by her children: Arthur Lucas Jr. and his wife, Crystal, of St. Albans, and Linda Sheltra of Richland, New York; her five grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren; her brother Andrew Pepin and his wife, Ernestine, of Newport; and by several nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her brothers: Alfred, Lewis, Theodore, and Arthur Pepin; and by her two sisters: Eva Parker and Grace Hummers. A graveside service will be held at the Derby Center Cemetery on Friday, May 29, at 11 a.m. Should friends desire, contributions in her memory may be made to the Mary Wright Halo Foundation, 1071 Upper Quarry Road, Newport, Vermont 05855.

, 88, of Newport died suddenly on April 23, 2015, at her home. She was born on January 24, 1927, in North Troy to Honore and Belle “Rose” (Benjamin) Roberts. On November 17, 1947, she married Dean Morrill, who predeceased her on May 20, 2005. She was a sales clerk for Sears and Roebuck in Newport for 25 years, from where she retired in 1986. She was a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Newport and the Newport Elks Lodge #2155. She had many friends over the years. She enjoyed camping at their camp at Lake Salem and going on vacations with family and friends throughout the years. Her flower gardens brought her joy and were always beautiful. She also enjoyed the beauty of Lake Memphremagog and going to Cole’s Pond, dancing with her husband. She is survived by her children: Patricia Tracy and her husband, Wayne, of Valrico, Florida, Barbara Donovan and her husband, Patrick, of Troy, Beverly Morrissette and her husband, Henry, of Troy, and Betty Lackie and her husband, Frank, of Westmore; her grandchildren: Derek and Jamie Racine of Valrico, Jennifer Young of Gardner, Massachusetts, Travis Degre and his wife, Christine, of Newport, Mari-Jo Urie of Newport, and Ashley Lackie of Westmore; and by several great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her siblings: Dorio Roberts of North Troy, Aldemand “Joe” Roberts of Connecticut, Maurice Roberts of Florida, Roger Roberts of Tennessee, Oscar Roberts of Newport Center, and Gabrielle Hilliker of Newport; and by several nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by two sisters: Yvette Parenteau and Jackie Hamilton; and by her brother Ranald Roberts. Funeral services were held on April 28, in Newport. Interment followed in St. Mary’s Cemetery. Should friends desire, contributions in her memory may be made to the Ronald Holland Dialysis Center, in care of North Country Hospital, 189 Prouty Drive, Newport, Vermont 05855.

of St. Johnsbury died on Friday, April 17, 2015. She was 83 years old. She was born on November 21, 1931, in Morristown, New Jersey, daughter of Russell and Elgie (Paddleford) Williams. She attended St. Johnsbury Academy and graduated in 1949 from Lyndon Institute. In 1950, she married Reginald Rexford. She loved life, family, and friends. She had hobbies that included horses, and later camping with her husband, Reg. She always liked to read and knit. She was a member of the Red Hat Club and the Women’s Club. She is survived by her three daughters: Wanda Waugh and her husband, William, of Lyndonville, Linda Pilotte and her husband, Doug, of Lyndonville, and Paula Carpenter and her husband, Ken, of St. Johnsbury; one step-brother, George Andrews, and his wife, Evelyn, of Glen Ellen, California; one sister, Marion Gero, of St. Johnsbury; 11 grandchildren: Matthew, Alexander and his wife, Marisa, Karen, Lisa, Mandy, Chad and his wife, Ashley, Meagan and her husband, Sam, Carrie and her husband, Geremy, Andrew and his wife, Erica, Kenneth Jr. and his wife Khadizhat, and Tara and her husband, Matt; 16 great-grandchildren; and by two great-great-grandchildren. She was predeceased by her husband, Reginald Rexford, in 1999. A memorial service was held on April 24. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be marked in her name to the Canterbury Inn Activity Fund, 46 Cherry Street, St. Johnsbury, Vermont 05819.

, 52, of Newport died peacefully on April 19, 2015, in Newport, surrounded by those who loved her, after her battle with cancer. She was born on December 14, 1962, in Newport, to Pauline (Cotnoir) Ducharme, and the late Marcel Cotnoir. After she graduated from North Country Union High School she remained in Newport, where she raised her girls surrounded by family. She spent many years as a waitress at Martha’s Diner, where she served friends, family members, and many strangers. Her wonderful generosity and love for life, family, and friends as well as her strong faith, were present in everything she did until her last breath. She is survived by her children: Katina Cotnoir and her fiancé, Dan Ortiz, Ashley Weikel, Miranda Ryan and her partner, David Morse, Chelsea Urie and her dad, Steve Urie, and her step-daughter Windee Young and her husband, John. She is also survived by her grandchildren: Enrique and Jaymyn Ortiz, Parish and Carter Weikel, and four step-grandchildren: Kaitlyn, Johnathan, Matthew, and Andrew Young. She is also survived by her mother, Pauline DeLaBruere; her brothers: Donald and his wife, Noella Cotnoir, and Richard and his wife, Dinah Cotnoir; and by her sisters: Francine Cotnoir, Rejeanne and her husband, Elby McBreairty, Yvette and her husband, Norman Patenaude, and Denise and her husband, Larry Royer Jr.; members of the Ryan family; nieces and nephews; multiple cousins; special friends; and many brothers and sisters of the New Hope Bible Church. She was predeceased by her father, Marcel Cotnoir; her sister, Linda Drageset; and by her former husband Bill Ryan. Funeral services were held in Irasburg, on April 24. In lieu of flowers, donation may be made to the Mary Wright Halo Foundation, 1071 Upper Quarry Road, Newport, Vermont 05855.

of West Glover died on April 23, 2015, after a short illness, with his wife by his side. He was born in Paris, France, on July 28, 1929, the son of Edward Grant Sparrow and Catherine Groth Sparrow. His family returned to the United States when he was ten, and lived in New York City, where he attended Buckley School. After attending St. Mark’s in Southborough, Massachusetts, he went on to Harvard University, where he earned his baccalaureate and law degrees. Having decided to pursue a career in teaching, he earned a master’s degree from Columbia University Teacher’s College. He married Lydia Huntington in 1953, and then joined the army, where was sent to West Germany as part of the U.S. occupying forces. Upon returning to the United States, he was hired as a tutor at St. John’s College in Annapolis, Maryland. For 36 years, he taught the entire curriculum of great books. From 1964 to 1966, he was acting director of the integrated liberal arts curriculum at St. Mary’s College in California. He then returned to St. John’s College in Annapolis, and subsequently served as dean of the college from 1977 to 1982. He married his present wife, Margaret Sparrow, in March of 1995. A colleague and friend, Curtis Wilson, wrote of him, “We hold him in especial esteem for traits and accomplishments that are peculiarly his: his boldness, persistence, and courage in investigating the foundations of the liberal arts; his wisdom and judiciousness in guiding…the college polity; the generous hospitality that he and Lydia extended to members of the faculty and their families, and to countless students on innumerable occasions; the loyalty and public spiritedness with which he gave himself to the college…. We respect him as a man of principle; we admire him for his dashing and aristocratic style and for the great joie de vivre of his waltzing; and we deeply value his friendship.” His conversion to Catholicism in 1957 was a profoundly important event in his life. He became an oblate of Mt. Savoir Monastery in Elmira, New York, in 1993, and his Catholicism and faith informed his writing. Mr. Sparrow was a man of warmth and kindly spirit. He taught his students at St. John’s with a sense of wonder, which never left him. He loved literature, poetry, and classical and popular music and old time radio. He could deliver the lyrics to any Gilbert and Sullivan opera with verve and style. After he began to lose his eyesight, he memorized many, many beloved poems so that he would always have them “available.” In his later years, he found a special happiness and peace in his second marriage. As his eyesight slowly failed, there came the quiet dawning of a new internal light; a broader vision; an ever greater forbearance, compassion, and respect for his fellow man. He was always learning. He learned to love dogs, or at least one dog; he learned to stack firewood and shovel snow; he learned to appreciate the simple peace of a summer day; he loved to hear the peepers in the spring and would sit outside, with his little kitty Willie on his lap, happily listening to the chorus of birds singing from the maple trees surrounding his home. He mellowed. May we all. He is survived by his beloved wife, Margaret, of West Glover; his former wife and friend, Lydia, of Concord, New Hampshire; his sister Helen Roosevelt of New York City; his seven children: Katherine, Sophie Sparrow and her husband, Christopher Eldredge, of Sunapee, New Hampshire, Bartholomew Sparrow and his wife, Polly, of Austin, Texas, Helen Sisk of Flagstaff, Arizona, Elizabeth Sparrow of Westbrook, Maine, Edward Sparrow and his wife, Cynthia, of Dallas, Texas, and Richard Sparrow and his wife, CJ, of Hong Kong, China; and by 12 grandchildren: Kai, Edward, Silas, Carl, Lucinda, Paula, Elinor, Alexandra, Nicholas, Jacquelyn, Edward, and Christopher. He was predeceased by his eldest son, Christopher Sparrow. Funeral services will be held at 11:30 a.m. on Monday, May 4, at the St. Paul’s Catholic Church in Barton, with the Reverend Timothy Naples celebrating a Mass of Christian burial. A reception will follow the service at the Barton United Church hall. Interment will be in St. Paul’s Cemetery in Barton at a later date. Should friends desire contributions in his memory may be made to the Barton Public Library, 100 Church Street, Barton, Vermont 05822; or to the Glover Public Library, 51 Bean Hill Road, Glover, Vermont 05839.

, 73, of Bushnell, Florida, died Friday, April 10, 2015. He was born October 26, 1941, in Richford. He was a member of the Moose Lodge in Lake Panasoffkee, Florida, and was retired from Metal Industries in Bushnell. He was a good husband, a good father, and a hard worker. He is survived by his wife of 44 years, Murielle Harbec Breault of Bushnell; his son Jason Breault of Castine, Maine; his daughter Victoria Breault of Summerfield, Florida; three grandchildren; and his brothers: Charles Breault, Bruce Breault, Clinton Breault, and Mitchell Breault, all of New York.  

, 76, died on April 6, 2015, after a courageous battle with cancer, at North Country Hospital in Newport. He was born on October 16, 1938, in Ridley Park, Pennsylvania, to John Jr. and Ruth Sinclair Chatley. He spent the majority of his life in West Chester, Pennsylvania, graduating from West Chester Junior-Senior High School, in the Class of 1956. He earned a degree in secondary education from West Chester State Teachers College (now West Chester University) and went on to receive his master of psychology degree at Villanova University. He briefly taught elementary school before starting his 39-year career with the Chester County Intermediate Unit. During his retirement he enjoyed traveling, joining the wine harvest in France and serving as a guest ranger for the Vermont Park Service. He managed a shop on East Gay Street in West Chester, which he enthusiastically filled with antiques and uniques. In addition, he restored and lovingly tended to the gardens where he lived in Marshallton, Pennsylvania, on the grounds of the Bradford Friends Meeting. Mr. Chatley was a devoted member of the meeting for 40 years. He also served on the board of the Friends of Springton Manor in Glenmoore, Pennsylvania, and volunteered in various capacities for the Chester County Parks and Recreation Department. Vermont was a lifelong favorite locale. Mr. Chatley was fond of spending the summer and foliage seasons there, exploring the natural beauty of the state. With the help of family and friends, he built a home away from home outside of Island Pond, near his beloved Lake Willoughby. He returned to Chester and Lancaster counties in Pennsylvania as the weather turned cooler, and for the past six years ventured to Florida in late winter to bask in the sunshine and explore the region with family. In addition to his work and travels, he was an avid birder, nature enthusiast, environmentalist, artist, photographer, and collector. He enjoyed meeting new friends with varied interests in the Northeast Kingdom of Vermont and wherever else he wandered around the world. He is survived by his daughters: Megan Chatley McCrery and her husband, Albert McCrery IV, and Erin Sinclair Chatley Duffy; his granddaughter Avery Sinclair McCrery; his brother John Chatley III; and by his sister Marcia Chatley Gregory. In addition, he was a loving uncle to many nieces and nephews, as well as a dear friend to an extensive network of cousins and acquaintances. There will be a service to celebrate his life and spirit at the Bradford Friends Meeting in Marshallton on Sunday, May 31, at noon. In lieu of flowers or donations, the family wishes to honor his memory by asking others to recognize the beauty of nature that Mr. Chatley so enjoyed. He delighted in the simple gestures of placing a birdhouse or chime in a nearby tree and planting something special in the garden, and following his example would be a fitting tribute to his life.    

, 57, of Island Pond died peacefully at his home on April 18, 2015, with his family and friends by his side.  He was born on May 13, 1957, in Newport.  He battled lung cancer for a year before dying. Mr. Deslandes was a loving, helpful man who enjoyed traveling.  He would travel to Maine and New York almost every weekend to watch his nephew race horses.  He traveled to simulcast parlors in Scarsborough, Maine and Saratogoa, New York where he met many friends whom he enjoyed spending time with.  He loved taking care of his mother for 16 years after his father died. He is survived by his mother, Marion Deslandes; his sisters: Nancy Roby and her husband, Norman, and Linda Bones and her husband, James; by his brother Clair Delsandes; his sister-in-law Linda Deslandes, all of Island Pond; by his brother Donald Deslandes and his wife, Candy, of Newport; by his brother Jeffrey Deslandes and his wife, Kinda, along with his horse racing idol Daniel and his little buddy Caden Deslandes of Sarco, Maine; and by his sister Gloria Collins and her husband, Doug, of Brownington; by several nieces and nephews; and by many friends and family. He was predeceased by his father, Harold Deslandes, and brother Gary Scott of Island Pond. Friends may call from 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. on Wednesday, April 22, at the Curtis-Britch-Converse-Rushford Funeral Home at 1199 Railroad Street in Island Pond.  Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. on Thursday April 23, at the First Congregational Church in Island Pond with the Reverend Jacob Kosis officiating. There is a fund set up on line to help pay for funeral expenses and also a memorial is set up at the Passumpsic Savings Bank in memory of Mr. Deslandes.  Spring interment will be in Lakeside Cemetery in Island Pond.    

, of Jay died peacefully on April 14, 2015, in Newport. He was born on December 20, 1943, in Manchester, Connecticut, to William and Helen Leonard. He was a machinist and carpenter.  He worked many years in Connecticut, and at Butterfields and Ethan Allen as a machinist. For ten years he was a carpenter building many homes in the area, including homes for both his daughters. In retirement, he drove for Fisher Auto Parts and Green Mountain Electric. He loved being with his family, and he enjoyed coin collecting, motorcycling, camping, NASCAR and being outside. He was a founding member and firefighter of the Jay Fire Department.  He was a captain and lieutenant for 25 years.  He was also proud of his wife being the first woman firefighter in the area.  He was a member of Mutual Aid, a Jay forest warden for 25 years, and a member of the Gold Wing Road Riders Association for ten years. He is survived by his wife of 50 years, Sandra Leonard of Jay; by his daughters: Kathy Murphy and her husband, Dave, of Jay and Cindy Vincent Goodyear and her husband, Matt, of Jay; by his son William B. Leonard and his wife, Betty, of Newport Center; by his grandchildren: Dawn Waters and her husband, Lenny, of Glens Falls, New York, Steven Murphy and his friend, Kassy, of Jay, Seth Vincent and his fiancé, Mel Ryea, of North Troy, Brittany and Paige Leonard of Newport Center, and Jenna Vincent of Jay. He was awaiting the arrival of his first great-granddaughter in July.  He is also survived by his siblings: Edward Leonard and his wife, Vern, of New York, Clifford Leonard and his wife, Jackie, of Connecticut, Sandy Jones and her husband, Roger, of Connecticut, and Patty Archambo of Massachusetts; by his brother-in-law John Wilson and his wife, Rhonda, of Connecticut; and by several nieces and nephews.  He will be really missed by his best friend, his dog Ginger. He was predeceased by his son-in-law Christopher Vincent in 2007; by his parents, William and Helen Leonard; and his special grandparents, William and Rose Leonard, all of Connecticut. Funeral services were held on April 18 at the Curtis-Britch-Converse-Rushford Funeral Home in Newport with the Reverend Rick Shover officiating.  Interment will take place at a later date. Should friends desire, contributions in his memory may be made to the Jay Fire Department, in care of Steve Murphy, 357 Partridge Hollow Road, Jay, Vermont 05859.    

, 54, of Amherst, New Hampshire, husband of Arlene M. (Abrams) Magoon, died on Wednesday, April 8, 2015, at the Community Hospice House in Merrimack, New Hampshire. A resident of Amherst for the past 30 years, Mr. Magoon was born in Boston, Massachusetts, on August 26, 1960, son of Judith (Hill) Magoon and the late Kenneth Magoon, who died August 26, 2011. Mr. Magoon lived in Newport during his youth and was a graduate of North Country Union High School, Class of 1978. He furthered his education in Ohio and was currently attending Southern New Hampshire University. Mr. Magoon was employed as a supervisor and senior technician at Vectron International of Hudson, New Hampshire, for the past 15 years. Members of his family include his wife, Arlene, whom he married in 1985; his mother, Judith Magoon, of Newport; three children: Chrysann Magoon of Marlborough, Massachusetts, Marcel Chabot and his wife Dorothy of Amherst, New Hampshire, and Caitlyn Folia and her husband, Eric, of Auburn, New Hampshire; four grandchildren: Alexa Rose, Travis Ronald, Ariana Matteline, and Charlotte Lee; his brother Barry Magoon and his wife, Mary, of North Carolina; a nephew and niece, Jordan Magoon and Bailey Magoon of North Carolina; his aunt Rachel Magoon of Waldorf, Maryland; and cousins Carol Moore of Vermont and Betty Nolin of Florida. In addition to his father, Ron was predeceased by an aunt, Lois Moore, of Derby Line. A typical Saturday afternoon would find Mr. Magoon in the garage tinkering with his latest invention and sharing ideas with his stepson Marcel, who moved his family back from Michigan when Mr. Magoon was diagnosed with cancer. They live just three miles from the family home. Mr. Magoon’s shared interest in travel with stepdaughter Caitlyn inspired travel adventures to Canada, North Carolina, California and Oregon. His youngest daughter, Chrysann, brought him great joy, especially during football season where they became the Patriots’ biggest “couch coaches.” Steaks on the grill and their humorous banter made any score a winner. Mr. Magoon loved his motorcycle. He ventured on many trips with friends, touring New England. A motorcycle trip to Nova Scotia with his wife and friends was one of his favorite adventures. Another of his favorite vehicles was his Kubota tractor. Several holes in the yard and many rocks have been rearranged by his maneuvering skills. On one Fourth of July, the Kubota was used to pull the family float in the Amherst parade. The float won most colorful. Cancer was a challenge to be met. After diagnosis he brought a retriever puppy and named him Shiloh. During experimental treatments, chemo, and declining health, Shiloh was his compassionate pal, sharing the best and the worse days remaining at his side defying the odds. Mr. Magoon’s final gift to this world came unexpectedly but is long lasting. On two occasions he was asked to speak to the medical community about palliative care from the patient’s point of view. Having never spoken in a public forum, he bravely stepped up and honestly spoke about cancer care. He made a difference. Memorial visitation was held at the Farwell Funeral Home Nashua on April 18. Interment will take place at Pine Grove Cemetery in Newport on Saturday, July 18, at 11 a.m. Donations may be made in his memory to Pediatric Cancer Foundation (Guide Star Exchange affirms that 90% of donations are used toward programs dedicated to ending childhood cancer.)    

of Albany died peacefully on April 2, 2015, at the age of 79. He was born in Palmer, Massachusetts, to Irene Tucker and Andrew Merceri. He served in the Army before working for Diamond International Corporation for more than 40 years. Mr. Merceri was a lifelong resident of Palmer before retiring. Upon retirement, he moved to Vermont with his wife, Leanna to the small community of Albany where he especially enjoyed playing cards with friends. Mr. Merceri was preceded in death by his wife, Leanna Merceri. He is survived by his daughter Kim (Keene) Merceri; his son Darrell Merceri; his stepdaughter Marylee Foisy; his stepsons Frederick Shannon, Christopher Shannon and Steven Shannon; as well as many grandchildren and great-grandchildren. A celebration of life will take place on Saturday, April 25, at 11 a.m. at New Birth Christian Church in Thorndike, Massachusettts. All are welcome to attend and celebrate Mr. Merceri’s life. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to New Birth Christian Church.    

, 40, of Newport died suddenly on April 7, 2015, at his home. He was born on December 17, 1974, to Ronald and Betty Lou (Rotunda) Rhye. He graduated from North Country Union High School in Newport. Among his hobbies, he enjoyed skate boarding. He is survived by his parents, Ronald and Betty Lou Rhye, of Newport, and by his son Nicholas Rhye. Services will be held at the convenience of the family.  

, born September 28, 1923, in Island Pond, daughter of Cydney and Marjorie Barnes, died April 11 at her home in Isle La Motte. She was the mother of two daughters, Marjorie Bertram and Joyce Tuck, both of Isle La Motte. She was also grandmother of six, great-grandmother of 12, and great-great grandmother of three. She married Rodney Waterhouse in April of 1944. She was a resident of Swanton for many years with her husband, Rodney, who predeceased her. She was active in the Swanton Congregational Church and a member of the First Club. She married James Sim and made her home in Alburg. She attended St. Luke’s Episcopal Church in Alburg where she was an active member until her death. She graduated from Lyndon Normal School and taught in many one-room schools (the last being in Highgate), and she worked as a nurse at Kerbs and St. Albans hospitals for many years. She was a licensed NRA instructor, past president of the Vermont Folklore Society, a member of the writers workshop, and a member of the Penn Woman. She was a nationally published author and an artist. She served as a representative to the regional planning commission for Isle La Motte. In lieu of flowers, gifts may be made to the Isle La Motte Library or CIDER (Champlain Islanders Developing Essential Resources, Inc).    

, 96, died on April 19, 2015, in Lowell with family at his bedside. He was born on July 30, 1918, in Lowell, a son of Vernon and Selma Crawford Warner. On October 31, 1938 he was married to Marguerite Snider, who predeceased him by 30 days, on March 20, 2015. They were married for 76 years. For many years, he was a member of, and trustee for, the Lowell Congregational Church. He served as a state legislator, town moderator and selectman as well as a board member for the Vermont Electric Cooprative.  He owned and operated a farm, operated heavy equipment, and was a welder for the asbestos mines and the railroad.  He designed, created and operated a hydro power plant for several years in Lowell.  He, with his family, built and operated the Missisquoi Manor (a bowling alley, dance hall, roller skating rink and banquet center). He is survived by his six children and their partners: Albert Warner, Priscilla Matten, Delvin Warner, Lorin Warner, Arlon Warner, and Alden Warner.  He is also survived by 12 grandchildren; 29 great-grandchildren; five great-great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews. He lived life to the fullest.  He enjoyed playing and listening to music, dancing, traveling, snowmobiling, four-wheeling and bowling.  He was very creative with metal and built, among other things, tractors and many four-wheeler trailers for family and friends.  His happiness was extremely evident when family or friends stopped to visit, play music, have a snack or play cards, or all of the above. There will be visiting hours to celebrate the lives of both Alvin and Marguerite Warner at the Curtis-Britch-Converse-Rushford Funeral Home at 4670 Darling Hill Road in Newport on Wednesday, April 22, from 5 until 8 p.m. There will be a double funeral, also at the funeral home, at 1 p.m. on Thursday, April 23, with the Reverend John Genco officiating. Burial will take place on May 11 at the Mountainview Cemetery in Lowell at 1 p.m. In lieu of flowers, contributions in his memory may be made to Orleans-Essex Visiting Nurses Association and Hospice, 46 Lakemont Road, Newport, Vermont 05855.    

, 73, of Derby died on April 14, 2015, in Newport. He was born on December 28, 1941, in St. Johnsbury to Myrle Davis Woodmansee and the late Urban Whitcomb.  He received his GED in June of 1988. He married Barbara Jean (Villeneuve) Whitcomb, who predeceased him on October 7, 2007. Mr. Whitcomb was a block guard for the Orleans County Sheriff’s Department.  He retired from the Vermont Army National Guard and obtained the rank of staff sergeant. He also was employed at one time at American Maple, Hood’s Creamery, and Moss Trucking, and he was a farmer, a truck driver and longtime bus driver. Among his hobbies, he enjoyed hunting, fishing, and bowling where he held the league high score of 297, a near perfect game! He also enjoyed boating, working on cars, and enjoyed the company of his dog “Crystal.”  He was a practical joker, an avid bowler and a softball champion. His CB radio handle was “Candyman.” He also loved to snowmobile, play horseshoes, fish, attend his son Mark Shelton’s concerts, and go on cruise vacations with Theresa. His favorite NASCAR drivers were Dale Earnhardt Sr. and Jr. He loved the many dogs he had in his life.  He especially enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren. He is survived by his children: Richard Whitcomb Jr. of Salem, Connecticut, Karen Whitcomb and James Trent of North Carolina, and David Whitcomb and his girlfriend, Lisa Hastings, of Norwich, Connecticut; by his many grandchildren, including: Barry, Johna, Mykhaila, Brandon, Adam, Vanessa, Meagan, Miranda, David Jr., and Dyllan; and great-grandchildren; by his mother, Myrle Leithead, of Lyndonville; by his stepson Mark Shelton and his wife, Lisa, of Derby; by his fiancé, Theresa Bowen, of Derby; and by her children: John Roy and his wife, Diane, of Holland, Debbie Grow and her husband, Dan, of Enosburg, Robin Nolan and his wife, Christina, of Derby, and Angel Girard and her husband, Eric, of Derby. He is also survived by his brother Bernard Whitcomb of California; his sisters Janet Fenoff and Jean Peck, both of Florida; and his half brothers and sister: Gary Fenoff of St. Johnsbury, Billy Whitcomb of Jay, and Judy Lamont of Florida; and by numerous nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his baby girl Villeneuve in 1961, Baby Boy Whitcomb in 1965 and Barbara Jean Marie Whitcomb in 1978. He was also predeceased by his brother Walter Whitcomb. Funeral services were held on April 17 at the Curtis-Britch-Converse-Rushford Funeral Home in Newport with the Reverend John Genco officiating. Military honors were held following the service at the funeral home. Should friends desire, contributions in his memory may be made to the Pope Memorial Frontier Memorial Animal Shelter, 502 Strawberry Acres, Newport, Vermont 05855, or to the American Cancer Society, Vermont Division, Inc., 55 Day Lane, Williston, Vermont 05495.

, 87, of West Glover died on April 5, 2015, in White River Junction. He was born on September 4, 1927, in Barton, to Everett and Gladys (Masure) Clark. On June 20, 1955, he married Gisele Champagne, who survives him. He was an assessor for the state of Vermont and a veteran of the United States Navy. He was a member of the American Legion Post #76 of Barton. He joined the post when he was still on active duty in both World War II and the Korean War, and has been an active member for over 68 years. He was a past commander of Post #76 and the post finance officer for over 49 years. He has been a cemetery commissioner since 1999. He worked on the added Glover cemetery space, which led to the establishment of Westlook II. He was also a lister for the town of Glover. Mr. Clark always had a smile on his face, was a friend to many, and was always willing to give a helping hand. He and his wife enjoyed trips with Community Circle, spending winters in Florida, picking raspberries, ice skating, and helping friends sugaring and tasting the product. He was a very active member of St. Paul’s Church and helped with the school. He is survived by his wife, Gisele Clark, of West Glover; his children: Michele Rose and her husband, Andrew, of Burlington, Daniel Clark of Hartford, and Robert Alan Clark of Williamson, New York; his granddaughter Sarah Rose of Burlington; and by several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his brother Bill Clark; and by his half-sister Jeannette Lewis. Funeral services were held at 11 a.m. on Friday, April 10, in Barton. Spring interment will be in Westlook Cemetery in Glover.

, 68, of Newport died peacefully on April 2, 2015, in Newport. She was born on August 25, 1946, in Morrisville, to Cecil and Katherine (Kellog) Stearns. She married Merrinott Durivage, who survives her. She was employed by the Bel-Aire Nursing Home in Newport as a supervisor for housekeeping for many years. She was a loving wife, mother, and grandmother. She is survived by her husband, Merrinott Durivage Sr., of Newport; her children: Merrinott Durivage Jr. of Newport, Desmond Durivage of Newport, and Deneen Tourangeau and her husband, Jimmy, of Sheffield; four grandchildren; 31 great-grandchildren; and by her sister Gerri Stearns of Morrisville. Private services will be at the convenience of the family. Should friends desire, contributions in her memory may be made to the Bel-Aire Nursing Home Activities Fund, 35 Bel-Aire Drive, Newport, Vermont 05855.

of Barton died on Monday morning, April 6, 2015, in Lyndonville, at the age of 88. She was born on March 17, 1927, in Rutland, the daughter of Walter F. and Aleathea (DeRosia) Center. Her father died prior to her birth. At the age of five, her mother remarried, to Robert DeForge, and five children were born and raised in Montpelier. She spent her childhood summers in Danby, with her grandfather and Aunt Bertha Risdon. In 1945 she graduated at the top of her class from Montpelier High School, where she was an avid basketball and baseball player. She was in all of the school plays and loved dancing. In the fall of 1945 she entered the University of Vermont (UVM) and graduated in 1948 with a bachelor of science in nursing. While in her last years of school at UVM, she affiliated at Heaton Hospital in Montpelier, Brooklyn State Hospital in New York City, and Children’s Memorial Hospital in Montreal, Quebec. After receiving her RN, she went to Chicago for three years of college to obtain her degree in anesthesia at Norwegian American Hospital. In 1951 she became one of the first certified registered nurse anesthetists in the country. She practiced anesthesia at hospitals in Randolph, Brattleboro, and Burlington. In 1952, she married Martin E. Leach of Waterville, and they had three children. At the time, Mr. Leach was a sergeant for the Vermont State Police, graduating from the Vermont State Police Academy in 1947. They moved to Barton in 1955 where she lived until her death. She was very active with Barton Academy while her children attended. She worked as an RN at Newport Hospital from 1960 to 1974. After Mr. Leach died in 1969, she returned to UVM to further her education in coronary care and received her CCN in 1970. From 1976 to 1977 she was in charge of the coronary care unit at Hillside Hospital in San Diego, California, and then at Northeastern Vermont Regional Hospital upon her return to Vermont. She continued with college courses at UVM and the University of Minnesota through 1982. She was active with the Republican Party for years and served as a delegate in Washington, D.C. Ms. Leach, or “Peppermint Patty” as her sisters called her, loved to dance and had great memories of going to see the big bands with her husband in the 1950s and 1960s. Her favorite place was the Brown Derby in Montpelier where her husband proposed! She was an avid Red Sox fan and March Madness was her all-time favorite sports event of the year. She always miraculously picked the winner of the Kentucky Derby! She was always positive and derived a great deal of pleasure watching her children and grandchildren grow up and play sports. She is survived by her children: Glenn Leach and his wife, Cheryl, of Gilmanton, New Hampshire, Gary and Melissa Leach of Lyndonville, and Jill Leach of Barton. She is also survived by her grandchildren: Zach and Breanna Leach of California; Beth and her husband, Chris Hibshman, and their children: Barrett and Brooklyn of Burke; Dallas and Lilly Leach of Lyndon; Erika Leach of Washington, D.C.; Amanda Leach Brocksmith and her husband, Richard, and son Chase of Gaithersburg, Maryland; Rachel Schuster and her husband, Nathan, and their children: Gavin and Bennet of South Portland, Maine; and Jessica and Colin Trahan and son Toby of Los Angeles, California. She is also survived by two brothers: Robert and his wife, Maggie DeForge, of Clinton, Massachusetts, and Jerome DeForge of Virginia; two sisters: Georgia Buck and her husband, Jim, of Leominster, Massachusetts, and Daphne Marhefka and her husband, Joe, of Clinton, Massachusetts; a sister in-law, Marilyn Center, of Clinton, Massachusetts; and by many nieces and nephews, and several good friends. She was predeceased by her father; her mother; her husband; a sister, Norma Hancock; and by a brother, George Center. A memorial service will be held in Lyndonville on Sunday, April 19 at 2 p.m. at the Guibord Funeral Home with Mr. John Sleeper officiating. Friends may meet with the family one hour prior to the start of the service, beginning at 1 p.m. Donations made in her memory may be directed to Caledonia Home Health Care, marked for hospice, 161 Sherman Drive, St. Johnsbury, Vermont 05819; or to the Orleans-Essex Visiting Nurse Association and Hospice, 46 Lakemont Road, Newport, Vermont 05855.

died peacefully at her home in East Hardwick on Thursday, April 9, 2015. She was born on December 17, 1925, to Edith (Dewing) and Leon LaMonda at the Dewing family farm in Glover. She attended the little Mud Island School for eight years and graduated from Greensboro High School. She was a registered nurse who received her degree from Brightlook Hospital School of Nursing in St. Johnsbury in 1946, where she was the youngest student. Later she completed the first nurse practitioner program at the University of Vermont and Mary Fletcher Hospital, where she was the oldest student. After a fire destroyed their small farm in Glover, the LaMonda family moved to Riverside Farm in East Hardwick. In February of 1945, she married Bradley Luther. She resided in East Hardwick for 75 years, with many winters enjoyed at their house in Hernando, Florida. Mrs. Luther worked as a nurse at Hardwick Hospital, the Robbins Nursing Home in East Hardwick, the Darling Inn Nursing Home in Lyndonville, and in Dr. Russell’s office at Northeast Interns in St. Johnsbury. She was one of the first nurses to be hired at Caledonia Home Health and was involved in the inception of home nursing in Vermont. She also worked in the Luther’s family store, The East Hardwick Hardware Store. She was active in her community in Vermont and in Florida. She loved to play her keyboard at the Greensboro Nursing Home and played with a kitchen band in Florida. She was a member of the Vermont Nursing Association, the First Congregational Church of East Hardwick, and the Caledonia Grange in East Hardwick. Along with her husband, she loved to travel and explore the United States in their camper, including trips to California and a trip to Alaska in 1992. They also enjoyed camping at LaMonda family reunions on the farm in Glover and at Miles Pond gatherings with their family. She is survived by her sister Lorraine and brother-in law Elwin Daniels Jr. of Craftsbury; her sister Janice and brother-in-law Wilbur Mower of New Mexico; her sister-in-law Calista Lawson of Florida. She is also survived by her four children and their families: Cheryl and Gary Michaels of East Hardwick and their children: PJ Jonesku of Salem, Massachusetts, and Nathan Bradley and Jennifer Michaels of Shrewsbury, Massachusetts; Edward and Pamela Luther of East Hardwick and their family: Nathan, Melissa, Tessa, and Ella Ardys Luther of East Hardwick, and Nicole, Bret, Grace, and Gavin Hodgdon of Jericho; Gail and David O’Brien of Shaftsbury and their family: Justin, Julie, Addison, and Hanna O’Brien of Downingtown, Pennsylvania, and Erin, Adam, and Keva Wilson of Storrs, Connecticut; and Douglas and Elaine Luther and their daughters: Meghan and Emily of Walden. She was predeceased by her husband, Bradley; her brother Warren and his wife, Denise (Brochu) LaMonda, of Stowe; her brother-in-law Burleigh Luther of Connecticut; and by her sister-in-law Gleigh (Luther) Richardson of Colorado. The family requests donations, in lieu of flowers, to Caledonia Grange #9, P.O. Box 4, East Hardwick, Vermont 05836. Interment services will be held after the ground thaws and will be at Sanborn Cemetery in East Hardwick. At her request, there will be no visiting hours.

, 76, of West Charleston died peacefully on April 11, 2015, in Derby. He was born on February 20, 1939, in St. Johnsbury, to Gerald and Lucille (Gardner) Powers. On April 23, 1959, he married Charlotte R. Scott, who predeceased him on November 19, 2013. Mr. Powers was employed for 38 years by Tivoly in Derby Line. He was a member of the Vermont National Guard. He also owned and operated Dean’s TV Service. His hobbies included working on cars, going to the local races, and watching NASCAR. He is survived by his children: Larry Powers and his wife, Sandra, of West Charleston, and Jennifer Allen and her husband, Daniel, of Derby; his grandchildren: Haley, Anthony, and Riley Allen; his brothers: Richard Powers of North Hero, William Powers of Tampa, Florida, and Keith Powers and his friend, Nancy, of North Hampton, Massachusetts; and by several nieces and nephews. A private graveside service will be held in the spring at the Derby Center Cemetery.

, 42, died peacefully on April 12, 2015, after a short illness, at North Country Hospital in Newport. She was a lifelong resident of Newport, and graduated from North Country Union High School. She was a loving mother to her two sons and a warm and thoughtful person to be around. Those who knew her will remember her as a kind and generous woman who delighted in giving little surprise gifts to those she loved. She leaves behind her beloved son Todd Skinner and his fiancée, Alyssa Lamadeleine. She was so looking forward to celebrating the birth of her first grandson in early May. Her second son, Cody Skinner, and her father, Edgar Roy, predeceased her. She leaves behind her mother and step-father, Paula and Peter Conover; her siblings: Sharon Morin, Tracey Coburn-Burdick, Lori Coburn-Webb and Tim, Dan, Michael, and Tracy Roy. She is also survived by her uncle Charles Austin and his wife, Alice; her aunt Jean Poutre; her grandmother Ruth Austin, who is celebrating her one hundred and first birthday; her step-siblings: Kirsten, Stacy, and Bruce Conover and Rachel Conover Loreto; together with many nieces and nephews. A June memorial service and interment is planned.

Committal services for Gilles Fugere ....show

will be held at 11:30 a.m. on Saturday, April 18, at St. Mary’s Cemetery in Newport.

Ida Edna Chaffee ....show

, 91, of Albany died peacefully on April 3, 2015, in Newport. She was born on November 16, 1923, in Albany to Mark and Ida (Keith) Honsinger. On November 26, 1945, she married Dale Chaffee, who predeceased her on March 13, 2014. She was a member of the Albany United Methodist Church. She enjoyed baking for the church dinners, tending to her flower gardens, knitting, and crocheting. She is survived by her children: Ida Burdick and Mark Chaffee, both of Albany; her grandchildren: Willard “Andy” Burdick of Woodsville, New Hampshire, and Jonathan Dale Burdick and his wife, Joanna, of Claremont, New Hampshire; her great-grandchildren: Alyssa, Matthew, Austin, Peyton, Davan, Jacob, and Logan; her sister-in-law Beverly Chaffee of Montpelier; and by several nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by half brothers: Lynn, Charles, and Harry Rowell. Friends may call at the Curtis-Britch and Davis Funeral Home on Craftsbury Common on Wednesday, April 8, from 6 to 8 p.m. Funeral services will be held at 10 a.m. on Friday, April 10, at the Albany United Methodist Church with the Reverend Nathan Strong officiating. Spring interment will be in the Albany Village Cemetery. Should friends desire, contributions in her memory may be made to the charity of one’s choice.

Gregory A. Cresswell ....show

, 67, of Newport Center died on April 1, 2015, in Newport. He was born on June 10, 1947, in Lock Haven, Pennsylvania, to Stephen and Martha (Confer) Cresswell. On April 20, 1974, he married Nancy Pollander, who survives him. He graduated from Penn State with a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering. He retired in 1999 as an environmental engineer for Mobil Oil Corp. He was a member of the National Guard in Connecticut. He held memberships with the Exxon-Mobil Retirees Club, Penn State Alumni Association, OSHA Life Long Learning Group, and the North Country Swingers. He enjoyed tending to his flower gardens, and frog hunting with his grandsons, daughter, and Bryan. He also enjoyed hunting, fishing, camping, boating, football, listening to country music with Leo, traveling, camping, snowshoeing, shoveling with his grandsons, and tending to his three aquariums. He is survived by his wife, Nancy Cresswell, of Newport Center; his daughter Desiree Cresswell and her companion, Bryan Elmer, of Coventry; his grandsons: Leo, Saige, and Travis; and by his brother Christopher Cresswell and his wife, Rita, of Longhorne, Pennsylvania. Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, April 8, at St. Mary’s Star of the Sea Catholic Church in Newport, where a Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated. Spring interment will be in Lake Road Cemetery in Newport Center. Should friends desire, contributions in his memory may be made to the Mary Wright Halo Foundation, 1071 Upper Quarry Road, Newport, Vermont 05855.

Keith O’Keefe ....show

, 27, of Newport died suddenly in Jay on April 3, 2015. He was born on August 17, 1987, in Newport, to Roger O’Keefe and Kimberly Ovitt Henderson. He was employed at Jay Peak Ski Resort in the IT Services Department, which he thoroughly enjoyed. He lived life large and to the fullest. He had many friends who claimed him as a best friend. He always kept them on their toes with his sharp wit. He absolutely loved music and jamming with his friends. He loved to strum on his guitar and had recently discovered karaoke. He also loved writing. He will be missed by many although he is joining his beloved Grammy Bertha, whom he loved and missed dearly. He is survived by his father Roger O’Keefe and his wife, Shawnda, of Ferdinand; his mother Kimberly Ovitt Henderson and her husband, Kevin Henderson, of Roanoke Alabama; his brothers: Matthew Gray and his wife, Sherry, and their daughter Adalee Grace of Delta Alabama, and Jacob O’Keefe of Ferdinand; his grandparents: Alan Ovitt and his wife, Wanda, of Lithia Springs, Georgia, Cathy Irvin and her husband, Pete Irvin, of Sylacauaga Alabama; his uncle Michael O’Keefe and his partner, Linda Deslandes, of Island Pond; his favorite uncle, Pat O’Keefe, and his wife, Lisa, of Island Pond; his uncle Gary O’Keefe and his wife, Ginette, of Island Pond; his aunt Vicky O’Keefe of Island Pond; his aunt Vicki Ovitt Lyons of Roanoke; his aunt Heidi Irvin of Vincent, Alabama; his uncle Robert Leigh of Carrolton, Georgia; his cousin Jon O’Keefe and his wife, Crystal, of Island Pond; his cousin Laurie Adams and her husband, Jeff Adams, of Jericho; his cousin Tom O’Keefe of Silver Springs, Maryland; his cousin Molly Ducharme and her husband, Lucien Ducharme, and their daughter Alexis of Weathersfield; and his cousins: William Lyons and Romello Lyons of Roanoke. He was predeceased by his grandmother Bertha O’Keefe; and by his grandfather Lawrence “Muscles” O’Keefe of Island Pond. Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, April 11, at the Curtis-Britch-Converse-Rushford Funeral Home, at 1199 Railroad Street in Island Pond. Friends may call at the funeral home on April 11, from 9 a.m. until the hour of the funeral. A reception will follow at the American Legion Hall in Island Pond. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made at any Passumpsic Savings Bank branch for the Keith O’Keefe Memorial Fund.