NEKG - 2003 Obituaries

, died Nov. 28, 2003 at his home in Lyndonville, Vt., at the age of 85. He was born in Dexter, Maine, Nov. 29, 1917, the son of Harold and Cora (Campbell) Pratt. On June 23, 1941, he married Louise Bickford, and they were married until her death Jan. 30, 1999. He graduated from the University of Maine with a bachelor\'s and master\'s degrees in education. He was a teacher and principal in schools in Herman, Maine, Harrington, Maine, and East Corinth, Maine. In 1961, he moved to Winslow, Maine, and was a salesman for New York Life Insurance Company until his retirement in 1980. He was a member of the Lynde Lodge 174 F & AM of Hermon, Maine, which he joined Sept. 29, 1945. Clarence and Louise retired to Port Orange, Fla., and leave many friends there. They also summered at their home in Winslow, Maine. He loved hunting, fishing and particularly his camp on Moosehead Lake, Maine. He was predeceased by his parents; a sister, Gwen Lemelin; a brother Virgil Pratt; and by his devoted wife, Louise. He leaves his daughters, Sat Inder Kaur Khalsa (Gail) and her husband Karta Purkh Singh Khalsa, and Donna Edwards and her husband Thomas; three granddaughters, Karen McCalla and her husband Scott, Debra Edwards, and Guru Shabd Kaur Khalsa. Donations in Clarence\'s memory may be made to Caledonia Home Health Care Agency, P.O. Box 383, St. Johnsbury, VT 05819-0383; or to a charity of one\'s personal choice. A memorial service will be held in the summer of 2004 and will be announced in this paper at a later date. Burial will be in Snow\'s Corner Cemetery, Maine, in the family lot.

, 79, of Pettyboro Road, Bath, N.H., died Friday evening Nov. 28, 2003, at her residence after a brief illness. She was born in Landaff, N.H., March 4, 1924, a daughter of Kate Bowles and James Holbrooke. Eunice is survived by her husband of 58 years, Carroll A. Foster. She is also survived by two sons, Herbert C. Foster of Wilder, Vt., and Richard J. Foster of Bath, N.H.; one daughter, Nancy L. Goslant of Woodsville, N.H.; eight grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by two brothers, Harvey and Arthur Holbrooke; and three sisters, Hazel Stimpson, Edith Mason and Vivian Chase. The funeral service will be on Wednesday, Dec. 3, at 1 p.m., at Ricker Funeral Home. The Rev. Vadia Boudreau will officiate. Memorials may be made in Eunice\'s memory to the Cottage Hospital, P.O. Box 2001, Woodsville, NH 03785.

, 64, of North Concord, Vt., passed away in Lebanon, N.H., Saturday, Nov. 29, 2003. Born in North Concord on Nov. 4, 1939, he was one of seven children born to Bernard and Eva (LeBlanc) Hagan and had worked for the town of Concord for the past 22 years. He is survived by his girlfriend, Catherine Merchant of North Concord; three children, Theresa Lafferty of Lakewood, Colo., Susan Patoine of Waterford, Bernard Hagan of North Concord; four adopted children, Timothy Hagan of Derby, Christopher Hagan of Greenville, Va., Brian Hagan and John Hagan, both of North Concord; eight grandchildren; his former wife, Joyce Hagan of North Concord; one brother, John Hagan of Littleton, N.H.; three sisters, Mary Cassidy of Hinesburg, Margaret Donovan of Stark, N.H., Irene Oliver of Freeport, Maine; nieces and nephews. Visiting hours will be held at Sayles Funeral Home, Wednesday evening from 5:30-7 and will conclude with a service at 7 p.m. conducted by the Rev. Patrick Forman. Memorial contributions may be directed to Concord FAST Squad, P.O. Box 113, Concord, VT 05824.

, 97, of Groton, Vt., died Nov. 30, 2003, at the Grafton County Nursing Home, North Haverhill, N.H., after an extended illness. Norma was born Jan. 4, 1906, a daughter of Alexander G. and Delia (Frost) Welch of Groton. She was the oldest resident of Groton and had been at the Grafton County Nursing Home since November 2002. Norma married Rufus A. Hosmer of Groton, Sept. 21, 1927, and was a dedicated helpmate and homemaker for over 65 years. Mr. Hosmer predeceased her April 14, 1993. She loved people and was always giving of herself to others. She and Rufus helped raise several children. They also opened their home to care for Norma\'s mother until her death and then later provided the same care for an aunt. She was a longtime active member of the First Baptist Church of Groton, until failing health prevented further attendance. She had been a choir member, a Sunday School teacher and a leader in the Pioneer Girls Club. She taught Vacation Bible School and, in later years, helped in the Awana Youth Program. For several years she owned and operated The Lighthouse, a Christian bookstore in Groton. She also assisted her husband in the Hosmer Bros. granite monument business. She was a longtime active member of the Groton Historical Society and was vice president at the time of her death. She was very interested in studying and preserving family genealogies and the history of the area for future generations, and was known for her keen sense of humor. She will be sadly missed by friends, neighbors and relatives. Survivors include a sister-in-law, Doris H. Steele of South Burlington, Vt., with whom Norma talked almost daily by phone for many years. Also surviving are numerous nieces and nephews, many of whom live in Canada. She was predeceased by two brothers, Aaron and Isaac; and other sister, Addie Myrtie. There will be no calling hours. A funeral service will be held Thursday, Dec. 4, at 1 p.m. in the First Baptist Church in Groton with the Rev. Gary Ashton officiating. Burial will be in Groton Village Cemetery in the spring. As requested by Norma, memorial contributions can be made to: the First Baptist Church, P.O. Box 128, Groton, Vt 05046; Gideons International, P.O. Box 323, Wells River, VT 05081; or the United Methodist Church, P.O. Box 157, Groton, VT 05046.

, 84, formerly of Mann's Hill Road, Littleton, N.H., passed away at the Country Village Center in Lancaster, N.H., Saturday, Nov. 29, 2003, after a long illness. A lifelong resident of Littleton, she was born May 11, 1919, a daughter of John and Nellie (Heald) Nute. Dorothy was a loving and dedicated homemaker for her family. She was employed at Cannon Mountain Ski Area while her children were growing up and skiing on the mountain, and later worked at the Littleton Coin Company until retirement. She was a lover of cats. Surviving family members include two sons, Bryan P. Whitcomb and his wife Susan of Breckenridge, Colo., and Robert J. Whitcomb and his wife Marion of Littleton; one daughter, Susan Sliwoski and her husband Richard of Rochester, N.H.; eight grandchildren, and eight great-grandchildren; one brother, Daniel P. Nute of Littleton; and many nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her husband, Henry F. Whitcomb Jr.; a son, Gary O. Whitcomb; three brothers, Paul Nute, Brigham Nute and Ralph "Buddy" Nute; and four sisters, Isabel Ross, Helen Clark, Alice Sullivan and Louise Peabody. At the request of the family, there will be no calling hours. A memorial service will be held at a date to be announced. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations be made in her memory to the North Country Home Health Agency, 536 Cottage St., Littleton, NH 03561; or Above the Notch Humane Society, P.O. Box 456, Littleton, NH 03561.

, 93, formerly of Bretton Woods, N.H., passed away at the Littleton Regional Hospital Thursday, Nov. 27, 2003. Helen, the daughter of Emil and Elizabeth (Ruppert) Hornberger, was born Nov. 9, 1910 in Fair Oaks, N.Y. She attended schools and worked in Middletown, N.Y., where she resided until her retirement in 1975. She moved to New Hampshire shortly after her retirement and resided with her family. She enjoyed gardening, crafts, cooking and making things with her hands. She also enjoyed volunteering at the Littleton Senior Center where she was well-known for the twinkle in her eye and always having a joke to share. She was a member of the RSVP. Surviving family members include a daughter, Lynn Markle and her husband David of Bethlehem, N.H.; one sister, Elizabeth Kostya of Florida; and one granddaughter, Stacy Markle of Newton, Mass. Her husband, William Alfred Woodruff predeceased her in 1980. A Mass of Christian burial will be held Friday, Dec. 5, at Our Lady of Mt. Carmel in Middletown, N.Y. Burial will follow in St. Joseph's Cemetery in Middletown, N.Y. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations be made in her memory to the Littleton Senior Center, Cottage Street, Littleton, NH 03561

, 61, o f Main Street, Cabot, died Monday, Dec. 1, 2003, at his home after several years of ill health and intense pain. Born July 26, 1942 in Lebanon, N.H., he was the son of Douglas H. and Hilda (Jock) Hull. He graduated from Hartford High School in White River Jct. in 1960, received his bachelor degree in speech from the University of Vermont in 1964, and obtained a master's degree in education in 1972. He went on and obtained his doctorate in inter-disciplinary education from Texas A & M University in 1976. On Nov. 1, 1964, he married Pamela Orr in the Ascutney Union Church. They made their home in the Lyndonville area, Burlington, College Station, Texas, and East Montpelier before moving to Cabot in 1993. Marc worked as a Boy Scouts of America executive in the Northeast Kingdom and was an Eagle Scout. He was a teacher at the St. Johnsbury Community School in special education and was a lay minister with the St. Johnsbury Congregational Church. He also taught at the University of Vermont for a few years. While in Texas, he had worked at the Texas A & M University. Returning to Vermont and East Montpelier, he began work for the state of Vermont as assistant director of Special Education and later as director and served as minister at the East Barre Congregational Church. Marc was superintendent of schools for Caledonia Central Supervisory Union in Danville. From 1996 to 1999, he served as Commissioner of Education for the state of Vermont. Most recently, he had served as a federal programs administrator for the Vermont Department of Education. Throughout his life, he was active in the churches where he lived. His goal in life was to walk with God and serve Him through Jesus Christ which was reflected in his personal and professional life. He enjoyed gardening and bird watching, especially blue birds. Marc loved to sing and to share his gift given to him with others. Survivors include his wife, Pamela; his children, Christopher S. Hull of Salt Lake City, Utah, Joanna L. Broderick and her husband Kevin of Plainfield, and Alexis D. Hull of Dallas, Texas; a special nephew, Jason D. Hull and his daughter Savannah of Randolph; two grandchildren, Vincent C. Broderick and Lillian B. Broderick; his father, Douglas H. Hull and his wife Hazel of South Royalton; three brothers, Douglas E. Hull and his wife Catherine of Worcester, William L. Hull and his wife Jeanne of East Barre, and Stephen H. Hull and his wife Rita of South Royalton; a sister, Linda B. Hull of Woodbury; and many nieces and nephews. His mother, Hilda, predeceased him. A service of remembrance will be held at the Vermont Statehouse Chamber in Montpelier on Friday at 12:30 p.m., followed by a time of fellowship. There are no calling hours. Contributions in lieu of flowers may be made to the Dr. Marc E. Hull Memorial Scholarship Fund, Washington Northeast Supervisory Union, 6328 U.S. Route 2, Plainfield, VT 05667.

, 80, of South Barre Road, South Barre, died Wednesday, Dec. 3, 2003, at her home. Born Aug. 6, 1923 in Gilead, Maine, she was the daughter of Ernest and Mae (Aremburg) Curtis. She graduated from the Haverhill Academy in Haverhill, N.H. On Dec. 31, 1941, she married John E. Anderson in Watertown, N.Y. They made their home in Wells River before moving to Barre in the early 1960s. He died April 10, 2001. She worked for many years at Barre Town Elementary School. She attended St. Monica's Catholic Church in Barre and was a member of Altrusa International of Barre. She volunteered throughout her life in many capacities, most recently at the Central Vermont Home Health and Hospice. Margie was a friend and mother to countless others outside of her family circle. She embraced a constant optimism toward life right up until her death. She enjoyed spending time with her grandchildren, gardening, cooking, crafts and her birds. Survivors include her children, Sandra Roberts and her husband Ted of Wells River, John "Jack" Anderson and his wife Patricia of Bethlehem, N.H., David Anderson of Plainfield, N.H., Tom Anderson and his wife Holly of South Barre, and Laurie LaPlant and her husband, Steve of Colchester; 12 grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren; three sisters, Priscilla Mayberry of Lancaster, N.H., Ruth Worden of Lebanon, N.H., and Nancy Anderson and her husband Warren of Lynn, Mass.; a brother, Bob Curtis and his wife Georgette of Cumberland Center, Maine; many nieces and nephews; and special friends, Susan Marsha, Ann Peloquin, Phyllis Bullard and Lorraine Aja. A brother, Norman Curtis and a sister, Phyllis Locke predeceased her. A service of remembrance will be held Saturday, Dec. 6, at 12 p.m., in the Hooker and Whitcomb Funeral Home, 7 Academy St., Barre. Friends may call at the funeral home from 10 a.m. until the time of the service. Contributions in her memory may be made to the Central Vermont Home Health and Hospice, 600 Granger Road, Barre 05641; or to the ALS (Lou Gehrig's) Foundation, 80 Colchester Ave., Burlington 05401.

, of 91 Clayton St., St. Johnsbury, passed away peacefully on the morning of Wednesday, Dec. 3, 2003. Frank was born Oct. 26, 1916 in Auburn, Maine, the son of George and Alice (Steele) Hall. After graduating from Edward Little High School in 1934, he moved to St. Johnsbury to live with his sister and brother-in-law, Isabelle and Charles Thurston. Frank worked at C.H. Goss Co. until enlisting in the Air Force in 1942, where he served in the 100th fighter wing of the 8th Air Force and participated in the invasion of Normandy. He returned to the states on leave and met Margaret Dussault on New Year's Eve 1944. They were married July 6, 1946. Frank was a stockholder and employee at Northern Auto Supply for over 20 years before leaving in 1970 to found his own company, Caledonia Auto Parts. Frank retired briefly in 1982 so he could spend more time fishing and gardening, only to return to work two months later, stating "fishing and gardening aren't as much fun if you can do them whenever you want to!" He worked six days a week until suffering a stroke in 2001. The things of which Frank was proudest included his service to his country, his successful business, and most of all, his family. He was a loving, supportive and wonderful husband, father and grandfather. Frank was a member of VFW Post 793, where he served two terms as post commander; the American Legion Post 58; Vail Pond Sportsman Inc.; and a charter member of the American Auto Parts Jobber Council. Frank is survived by his wife Margaret; children, John Hall and his wife Jo of St. Johnsbury, William "Boe" Hall and his wife Kathy of Waterford, Jo-Ann Sullivan and her husband Tim of Waterford, Kathleen Cloutier and her husband David of St. Johnsbury, and Jean Hall-Bouffard of St. Johnsbury; a son-in-law, Mike Bouffard of St. Johnsbury; a very close nephew, John Boucher of Tempe, Ariz., who lived with the family for several years; grandchildren, Tammi (and Dave) Cady, Troy (and Katie) Sullivan, Jared and Nate Cloutier, Riley and Michelle Bouffard, Joanna Hall, Graeme and Evan Hall; great-grandchildren, Jordan and Jake Cady. He also leaves many nieces, nephews, friends and his Clayton Street neighbors. He was predeceased by his father, who died when Frank was 12; his mother, who died when he was 17; sisters, Isabella Thurston, Gladys Keene and Alice Martin; a brother, George Hall; and special friends, Harold Deblois and Nort Austin. Funeral services will be held this Saturday, Dec. 6, at 1 p.m., at the North Congregational Church, located on Main Street in St. Johnsbury. Deacon Bernier Mayo will officiate. He will be buried with military honors in May at Mt. Calvary Cemetery. Visiting hours will be held at the Sayles Funeral Home, Friday, Dec. 5, from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Northeastern Vermont Regional Hospital, for terminal-care services. Such contributions may be sent to the attention of Judy Harbaugh, P.O. Box 905, St. Johnsbury VT 05819.

, 85, passed away suddenly Friday, Nov. 28, 2003, at Morrison Nursing Home in Whitefield, N.H. Lorie was born Aug. 23, 1918, a daughter to Dana and Marion (Stephens) Hubbard at the Home Place in Lyman, N.H. Lorie was employed by the Littleton Stamp Company for many years. She was a member of the Whitefield Advent Christian Church. Surviving family members include a brother, Durward Hubbard and his wife Nita of Lyman, N.H.; one daughter, Nancy Lee Arfman of Nebraska; one grandson, Scott Arfman; one granddaughter, Lorie Arfman; two great-grandsons, Christopher and Steven Arfman; one step-brother, Richard Hersom of Keene, N.H.; one step-daughter, Marion Schettino of Claremont, N.H.; two step-grandchildren; several nieces, nephews and grand-nieces and nephews. Her first husband, John D. "Jack" Lafferty, predeceased her in 1947; and her second husband, Earle Hersom predeceased her in 1977. At the request of the family, there will be no calling hours. There will be a memorial service Saturday, Dec. 6, at 11 a.m., at the Pillsbury Funeral home, 101 Union St., Littleton, N.H. Burial will be in the Glenwood Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in her memory to the Morrison Nursing Home, 4 Terrace Ave., Whitefield, NH 03598.

, 42, of Victory, Vt., beloved wife of Douglas Preston, passed away peacefully Monday, Dec. 1, 2003, at Manchester Memorial Hospital after a long battle with cancer. She was born Jan. 12, 1961, in Sherbrooke, Province of Quebec, Canada, the daughter of the late Omer Laliberte and Diana (Laprise) Laliberte of Rockville, Conn. She was employed by the Littleton Regional Hospital of New Hampshire in the accounts receivable department and previously resided in Connecticut. Besides her husband, she leaves two sons, Jeremie and Isaiah Preston; three brothers, Pierre Laliberte and his wife Anne Hoff-Laliberte of Colchester, Conn., Michel Laliberte and his wife Judy of Southhampton, Mass., and John Laliberte and his wife Donna of South Windsor, Conn.; four sisters, Francoise Baker of Wethersfield, Conn., Renee Laliberte of Windsor, Conn., Helene Laliberte and her companion Beatrick Landry of Hebron, Conn., Jeanne Lucia and her husband Joseph of Willimantic, Conn.; and many nieces and nephews, including Alan, lil' Andre, Eunice, Gary, Danielle, Melissa, Jason, Justin, Mark, Moniqua, Tawnya, Jennifer and Kevin. Her friends and family were very important to her and she was loved by all. She will be greatly missed. She was predeceased by a brother Maurice Laliberte and a sister Nicole Levesque, wife of Andre, of South Windsor, Conn. Funeral services will begin Saturday, Dec. 6, at 9:15 a.m. at the Ladd-Turkington & Carmon funeral home, 551 Talcottville Road (Route 83), Vernon, Conn., followed by a Mass of Christian burial at 10 a.m. at St. Bernard Church in Rockville, Conn. Burial will be private and at the convenience of the family. Calling hours will be held Friday, Dec. 5 from 5-8 p.m. at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to the Littleton Regional Hospital Oncology Dept., Attn: Gail Clark, 600 St. Johnsbury Road, Littleton, NH 03561.

, 56, of 298 Main St., Lyndonville, Vt., passed away on Thursday, Dec., 4, 2003, at Northeastern Vermont Regional Hospital in St. Johnsbury, Vt. He was born on March 7, 1947, in Hartford, Conn., the son of James B. and Doris (Cady) Mahoney Sr. He served in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam Conflict. He was an avid motorcyclist and hunter. He is survived by his wife, Debra (Mikelisd) Mahoney of Lyndonville, Vt.; two sons: James B. Mahoney III and Timothy P. Mahoney of Orange, Texas; by a granddaughter, Maddisyn Haley; by a grandson, Liam Clancey; by his three brothers, John Mahoney and Richard Mahoney of Manchester, Conn. and Robert Mahoney of Chapel Hill, N.C.; and by two nieces and two nephews. Services will be held at the convenience of the family. Those who wish may send contributions in his memory to the Lyndon Rescue, Inc., P.O. Box 401 Lyndonville, VT 05851.

, 91, died at a Deer Isle, Maine, health care facility on Thursday, Dec. 4, 2003. She was born April 3, 1912, at Craftsbury Common, Vt., the daughter of the Rev. A.M. and Ida (Duston) Watts. In 2001 she moved from her home in Danville, Vt., to be near her sister, Margaret Graham. She is survived by her sisters, Margaret and her husband Richard Graham of Stonington, Maine, and Elizabeth and her husband Lloyd Weeks of Lake Wales, Fla.; many nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her sisters, Ruth Gabaree and Eunice Sysko, and her brother, Joseph Watts. Graveside services will be held in the spring at Craftsbury Common Cemetery.

, 85, of St. Johnsbury, Vt., died Friday, Dec. 5, 2003, at his residence following a lengthy illness. The son of George E. and Alexandria F. V. (Weaver) Zickler, Herbert was born June 25, 1918, in Montgomery, N.Y. He received a bachelor of arts degree from Norwich University in 1942. He was in the last class of the Mounted Calvary & Mounted Band. He also received a master of education degree from the University of Vermont. He married Dorothy A. Slack, Feb. 21, 1943, in Vergennes, Vt. He was a chemistry, physics, and math teacher for many years at Vergennes High School, Vergennes, Vt., and Tilton Preparatory School, Tilton, N.H. He also worked as a research engineer with Clarostat Manufacturing Co., Inc., in Dover, N.H. Music was an important part of Herb's life, including playing the trumpet. He enjoyed listening to and teaching his grandchildren to appreciate fine music. Herb enjoyed carpentry and gardening. He was a member of the Vergennes Masonic Lodge. He is survived by his loving wife of 60 years, Dorothy A. Zickler of St. Johnsbury, Vt.; a daughter, Sandra M. Driscoll and her husband Dr. William J. Driscoll III, of Newburyport, Mass.; a son, Gerald Zickler and his wife Nancy of St. Johnsbury, Vt.; a sister, Susan A. Vanderburgh of Montgomery, N.Y., seven grandchildren, William Driscoll IV and his wife Nancy of Duxbury, Vt., Amy Driscoll and her husband Brian Clancy of Lebanon, N.H., Heather Driscoll of Burlington, Vt., Erin Driscoll of Watertown, Mass., Daniel Driscoll of Medford, Mass., Kenneth Zickler of Burlington, Vt. and Andrew Zickler of St. Johnsbury, Vt. He was predeceased by his parents and three brothers, Harold, Russell, and George. A funeral will be held at the Overhiser Funeral Home, located in Montgomery, N.Y., Tuesday morning, Dec. 9. Interment will be in the Brick Church Cemetery.

, 95, formerly of Summer Street, Lancaster, died Thursday evening, Dec. 4, 2003, at Morrison Nursing Home, Whitefield. Mrs. Towle was born in Randolph, N.H. on Nov. 5, 1908, the daughter of Asa F. and Mabel (Creighton) Reed. Imogene was raised in Randolph later moving to Jefferson and eventually Lancaster where she resided for many years. She worked various jobs in the Lancaster area and was employed many years at Connors & Hoffman, Littleton. Her last place of employment was at the Tri-County CAP Thrift Shop in Lancaster. She worked there until 87 years of age. She has been a resident of Morrison Nursing Home for the past 11/2 years. She was a member of the Advent Christian Church, Whitefield and the Colonel Town Senior Citizens, Lancaster. Family members include two sons, Asa C. Towle and Emmett E. Towle, both of Whitefield; two daughters, Molly T. Ball of Gilman and Jane D. Savage of Lancaster; two sisters, Mary R. Rice and Alice Hopkins, both of Stark, Fla; and many grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She was predeceased by her husband, Chester C. Towle; and three sisters, Edith Barber, Pearle Mulherin, and Lillian Ingerson. Visiting hours will be held Sunday evening, Dec. 7, from 7-9 p.m. at the Bailey Funeral Home, Lancaster. A funeral service will be held Monday morning, Dec. 8, at 10 a.m. at the Advent Christian Church, Whitefield. The Rev. Lou Going, pastor, will officiate. Burial will follow in the Forest Vale Cemetery, Jefferson. Donations may be made in her memory to Weeks Home Health Services, 278 Main St., Lancaster, NH 03584.

63, died at his home in Craftsbury Common, Vt., Monday, Dec. 15, 2003, surrounded by his family. Ken was born Nov. 27, 1940, the son of Clayton and Margurita (Harvey) Clow. He was a graduate of Hardwick Academy and received a bachelor of arts degree in English from the University of Vermont in 1962 and earned his doctorate in anthropology from Duke University in 1976. Ken served his country as a lieutenant in the Naval Air Force from 1965-1969 and was a member of the American Legion, Hardwick Post 7. He first married Pauline Gordon in 1967 in Norfolk, Va. In 1972, they had a son, Christopher Gordon Clow. Ken later married Judita Zilius in 1981. Ken and Judi resided in St. Johnsbury, Vt., for many years while Ken worked for the Department of Employment and Training as an employment consultant. He was a member of the men's Synapse Club and served on the boards of the St. Johnsbury Chamber of Commerce and Catamount Arts. He leaves in mourning his wife, Judi of Craftsbury Common; son, Christopher of North Carolina; brothers, Donald F. Clow of Rumford, R.I., Roderick Clow of Hardwick, Vt., Gordon Clow of Morris Plains, N.J.; and a sister, Pat Webster of Lyndon, Vt. He also leaves a wide circle of uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews and grandnephews. "He was a man, take him for all in all, we shall not look upon his like again" - Shakespeare. The family will receive visitors from 2-3 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 20, at the Davis Funeral Home in Craftsbury Common.

, 52, of Portland, Maine, died unexpectedly Friday, Dec. 12, 2003, at a local hospital after a long illness. She received a heart transplant 13 years ago from Brigham and Women's Hospital in Boston, Mass., and enjoyed a full and busy life since that time. She was born in Littleton, N.H., April 2, 1951, a daughter of Joseph A. and Regina LaVoice Knights. She attended Littleton Schools and was a graduate of Lyndon State College in Lyndon Center, Vt. Annie was employed as a cardiac technician at Mercy Hospital prior to her transplant, and most recently was self-employed as a massage therapist. She adored being with her dog, Kerby, spending time with her friends, gardening, stained glass, sewing and cross country skiing. She was a tireless advocate for the promotion and awareness of organ transplantation and volunteered many hours for the National Kidney Foundation of Maine. She was an active member of Team Maine - a group of individuals with organ transplants from the state of Maine who compete at the transplant Olympics. Most of all, Annie had a unique ability to make people laugh and see the lighter side of life. She was predeceased by her father, Joseph A. Knights. She is survived by her mother, Regina Knights of Littleton, N.H.; one brother, Michael J. Knights of Littleton, N.H.; two nieces, Stephanie Freedman of Scarborough, Maine, and Michelle Pelletier of Littleton, N.H.; one great-grandniece, Morganne Pelletier, and one great-grandnephew, Michael Pelletier, both of Littleton, N.H.; and her beloved golden retriever, Kerby. A memorial service will be held Thursday, Dec. 18, at 11 a.m., at Conroy-Tully South Portland Chapel, 1024 Broadway, South Portland. In lieu of flowers, Annie would appreciate donations in her memory to: National Kidney Foundation of Maine to benefit Team Maine, P.O. Box 1134, Portland, Maine 04104-1134.

, 97, of Brandon, Fla., passed away Monday, Dec. 15, 2003. She was preceded in death by her husbands, John Corbett and Arthur Eccher Sr. She is survived by her two daughters, Elaine Christopher and her husband Ben of Brandon, Fla., and Margaret Hubley and her husband Russell of Longmeadow, Mass.; two sons, Arthur Eccher Jr. and his wife Helen of Fredericksburg, Va., and John Eccher and his wife June of Manchester, Conn.; 11 grandchildren; and 27 great-grandchildren. A native of Sheffield, Vt., she resided in Brandon since 1985. Maude was a member of First United Methodist Church of Brandon and a lifetime member of the Order of the Eastern Star, Vt. Funeral services will be conducted Thursday, Dec. 18, at 3 p.m., at Stowers Brandon Chapel. Interment will follow at New Hope Cemetery. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the funeral home.

, 59, 99 Terry Hill Road, South Ryegate, Vt., died Dec. 13, 2003 unexpectedly at his residence. He was born in Goffstown, N.H., Sept. 11, 1944, a son of Roger and Elizabeth (Bose) Houghton. He graduated in 1962 from New Boston High School. Ronald was a self-employed building contractor. He also worked at DCI for the last eight years as a forklift operator, where he was called the "Rock." On Aug. 23, 1975, he married Theresa I. Lesmerises. He attended the Ryegate Corner Presbyterian Church, enjoyed mowing his lawn, working in his vegetable garden and deep sea fishing. He was a kind, gentle and giving person who could never say no to anyone. He was predeceased by a sister, Ruthie Ellis of Temple, N.H. He is survived by his wife, Theresa of South Ryegate, Vt.; his son, Roger Thomas Houghton of Manchester, N.H.; and daughter, Deanna Lynn Houghton of Rye, N.H., as well as daughter, Violet C. Bottenhorn of Ryegate, Vt.; and sons, Ernie Lesmerises and Carl Randall, both of Manchester, N.H., David Randall of Griffin, Georgia, and Armand Randall of Sullivan, N.H., and Lillian Randall of Benton, N.H.; one brother, John Houghton of Jefferson, N.H.; two sisters, Nancy Plaisted of Las Vegas, Nev., and Betty Smith of Jefferson Meadows, N.H.; 18 grandchildren, one great-grandson; and many nieces, nephews and cousins. Calling hours will be Friday, Dec. 19, from 7-8:30 p.m., at the Ricker Funeral Home, 1 Birch St., Woodsville, N.H. The funeral service will be Saturday, Dec. 20, at 11 a.m., in the South Ryegate Presbyterian Church. The Rev. Catherine Cook will officiate. Those who wish may make a memorial contribution in Ronald's memory to one's favorite charity.

, 79, of Warwick, N.Y., died Dec. 14, 2003 in Scottsbluff, Neb. The daughter of the late Jules Lemieux and Anna Beland Lemieux, she was born May 18, 1924 in Canada. She was married to the late Douglas V. Jenkins. She was a parishioner of St. Stephens RC Church, Warwick. She is survived by four daughters, Roberta Greatorex of Scottsbluff, Neb., Vickie Titemore of Lyndonville, Vt., Aleta Jenkins of Glencove, Maine, and Marla Silvernagel of Warwick; seven grandchildren and two great-grandchildren; three sisters, Alice Lemieux, Alexandra Allen and Agatha Therrien; and several nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her brothers, Lionel Lemieux and Archibald Lemieux; and a sister, Marie Tripodes. A memorial Mass will be held Friday, Dec. 19, at 11:30 a.m., at St. Stephens RC Church, Warwick. Interment of cremains will be in St. Elizabeth's Cemetery, Lyndonville, Vt., at a later date. Memorial donations may be sent to Douglas V. Jenkins Memorial Scholarship Fund, Lyndon Institute, Lyndon, VT 05851.

, 91, of 552 Whitefield Road, Dalton, N.H., passed away at the Country Village Health Care Center, Lancaster, on Tuesday, Dec. 16, following a brief illness. She was born in Dalton, daughter of Jerry and Stella (Crane) Brooks. She was a homemaker and lifelong resident of this community. Her favorite pastimes were gardening, doing needle point and berry picking during the summer. She is survived by a sister, Barbara Brooks of Dalton; and nieces and nephews, George and Pat Brooks, of Dalton, and Scoot, Susan and Dalton Brooks of Waxahachie, Texas. Friends may call at the Ross Funeral Home, Whitefield Chapel, on Friday, Dec. 19, from 2-4 p.m. Funeral services will immediately follow at the funeral home. Burial will take place in the spring in the Pine Street Cemetery, Whitefield. Those who wish may make donations in her memory to the Country Village Residents Council, P.O. Box 441, Lancaster, NH 03584.

, 97, of Brandon, Fla., passed away Monday, Dec. 15, 2003. She was preceded in death by her husbands, John Corbett and Arthur Eccher. She is survived by her two daughters, Elaine Christopher and her husband Ben of Brandon, Fla., and Margaret Hubley and her husband Russell of Longmeadow, Mass.; granddaughters, Susan Newman of Orlando, Fla., and Jill Merryday of Tallahassee, Fla.; and six great-grandchildren. A native of Sheffield, Vt., she resided in Brandon since 1985. Funeral services will be conducted Thursday, Dec. 18, at 3 p.m., at Stowers Brandon Chapel. Interment to follow at New Hope Cemetery.

former St. Johnsbury resident of Railroad Street, passed away peacefully Wednesday, Dec. 17, 2003, at the age of 107 years, seven months and 16 days. She may well have been the oldest resident of the state of Vermont. She was born in Armenia May 1, 1896, the daughter of Sarkis and Maritza Asadoorian. Those who knew Helen marveled at her independence. She lived alone in her apartment, owned by the Ravels, behind Landry's Drug Store, until she was 102 and was a favorite at the former Hovey's Shops. It was her decision to move into the Canterbury Inn in July 1998; she was dismayed, however (at the age of 102), that everybody there was old. She is survived by her daughter, Mary Encarnacion and her husband Donald of West Danville (898 West Shore Road, 05873); two granddaughters, Carol DeVries and her husband Rudi of Oakland, N.J., and Dayne Encarnacion and her husband Hans Kummerfeld of Richfield, Conn; and two great-grandchildren, Pilar DeVries and Erich Kummerfeld. An evening funeral service will be held at the funeral home Friday, at 7 p.m. Friends are welcome to call at the funeral home from 6 p.m. to the start of the service. Contributions, marked in Helen's name for the "Resident Activity Fund," may be directed to Canterbury Inn, 46 Cherry St., St. Johnsbury, VT 05819.

, 94, a longtime resident of Springfield, Mass., and formerly of Vermont, died late Wednesday evening, Dec. 17, 2003, at Mount Saint Vincent Nursing Home in Holyoke, Mass. She was born in St. Johnsbury, Vt., the daughter of the late Joseph and Mathilda (Voyer) Brunelle, and was a graduate of St. Johnsbury Academy. Mrs. Ingram was a parishioner of St. Mary's Church, East Springfield, Mass., and was the wife of the late Alexander Ingram, who died in February of 1988. She leaves two daughters, Jean A. Fredette and Janet L. Cooney, both of Springfield; three grandchildren, Jonathan Cooney, Elizabeth Fitzpatrick and Karen Esempio; five great-grandchildren, Leah and Natalie Cooney, Daniel and Jack Fitzpatrick and Olivia Esempio; as well as several nieces, nephews, grandnieces and grandnephews. At her family's request, a private memorial Mass will be celebrated in St. Mary's Church of East Springfield, with rites of committal to follow in Patrick's Cemetery of Chicopee, Mass. Contributions in her memory may be directed to Mount Saint Vincent Nursing Home, 35 Holy Family Road, Holyoke, MA 01040.

, 75, of Walker Hill Road in Lisbon, N.H. passed away Dec. 18, 2003, at the Littleton Regional Hospital. Mr. Bailey was born in Woodsville, N.H., a son to Marshall and Annie (Whipple) Bailey Sept. 23, 1928. Edson attended schools in Easton, N.H., Sugar Hill, N.H., and Franconia, N.H. He was employed with the Forest Service where his primary responsibility was to check the condition and safety of fire towers throughout the White Mountains. In 1949 he joined the United States Army and served during the Korean War. Upon his return to the North Country, Edson worked as a foreman at the Norton Pike Industries in Littleton, N.H. 35 years until his retirement in 1988. He was a member of the Littleton VFW Howard Shawney Post No. 816 and the American Legion, also in Littleton. Mr. Bailey was a member of the Littleton First United Methodist Church. He enjoyed all types of volunteer work, gardening, and had a particular passion pertaining to anything to do with wildlife. Survivors include his wife Harriet (Whitcomb) Bailey of Lisbon; his daughter, Joy Wiggin; grandson Benjamin Hess; and granddaughter Brooke Wiggin. There will be no calling hours. A Memorial Service will be held Tuesday, Dec. 23, at 11 a.m. in the Littleton First United Methodist Church with the Rev. Stephen E. Bascom Sr. officiating. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Lisbon Fast Squad, Lisbon, NH 03585.

, 88, of the Canterbury Inn, Cherry Street in St. Johnsbury, Vt., passed away Friday, Dec. 19, 2003. He was born in St. Prime, Quebec, Canada, the son of Alfred J. and Mary Bergeron. He served in the United States Army during World War II. He received his naturalization, and became an American citizen while serving in Italy. His beloved wife of 49 years Rose Aimee (Bouthillier) Bergeron predeceased him Oct. 11, 1992. He is survived by two sons, Bruce Bergeron and his wife Iris of St. Johnsbury, Lawrence Bergeron and his wife Irene of St. Johnsbury; four grandchildren, Aimee (Bergeron) Bean and her husband Kevin of St. Johnsbury, Aaron Bergeron and his wife, Amy of Kirby, Travis Bergeron and his fiancee, Patricia Steady of West Barnet, Courtney Bergeron of St. Johnsbury; three great-grandchildren, Katelynn Rose Bean of St. Johnsbury, Arik and Lindsey Bergeron of Kirby; one brother, Armand Bergeron and his wife, Eula, of Lyndonville, Vt.; one sister, Rose (Bergeron) Mathews of Florida; and several nieces and nephews. Eli was an auto mechanic by trade. He worked many years driving a wrecker for Wayne Ford. He had a great love for dogs, he raised and trained Beagles, and was an active member of the VT Beagle Club where he acquired many trophies and ribbons. He was also an active member of the Field and Stream Club. Friends may call at the Sayles Funeral Home from 6 - 6:45 p.m. A memorial service will follow beginning at 7 p.m. with Pastor Rick Menard officiating. Burial with military honors will be held at Mt. Calvary Cemetery Friday, May 7 at 3 p.m. In lieu of flowers contributions may be sent in memory of Eli Bergeron to the VT Beagle Club, 50 Flanders Rd., Fairfax, VT 05454.

, 81, a resident at the St. Johnsbury Health and Rehabilitation Center in St. Johnsbury, Vt., died Saturday afternoon, Dec. 13, 2003. She was born May 30, 1922, in Lyndon, Vt., the daughter of Ernest and Evelyn (Burnham) Barber. She was predeceased by her three brothers, Neil, Bernard and Everett; and one sister, Rita. She married C. Leslie Farr on March 21, 1947. They lived all their married lives in the St. Johnsbury and Danville area. Blanche was a registered nurse, graduating in 1945 from the Brightlook Hospital School of Nursing. She worked many years for Dr. Benjamin Clark as well as at other area hospitals and clinics. Blanche loved her work. She also enjoyed fishing with her husband Les, camping at Joe's Pond and gardening. She had resided at the St. Johnsbury Health and Rehabilitation Center for the past seven years where she received excellent care. In her later years, she enjoyed going for rides with her husband Les, who predeceased her this past June 1. She is survived by a brother-in-law, Collins J. Farr, of the Canterbury Inn in St. Johnsbury; nieces and nephews including Edward C. Farr, of Danville. Spring graveside service will be held at Mt. Pleasant Cemetery Thursday, May 20 at 11 a.m. Those wishing to donate in Blanche's memory may send contributions to Caledonia Home Health Care, PO Box 383, St. Johnsbury VT 05819.

, 88, of the Canterbury Inn, Cherry Street, St. Johnsbury, passed away Friday, Dec. 19, 2003. He was born in St. Prime, Quebec, Canada, the son of Alfred J. and Mary Bergeron. He served in the U.S. Army during World War II. He received his naturalization and became an American citizen while serving in Italy. His beloved wife of 49 years, Rose Aimee (Bouthillier) Bergeron, predeceased him Oct. 11, 1992. He is survived by two sons, Bruce Bergeron and his wife Iris of St. Johnsbury, and Lawrence Bergeron and his wife Irene of St. Johnsbury; four grandchildren, Aimee (Bergeron) Bean and her husband Kevin of St. Johnsbury, Aaron Bergeron and his wife Amy of Kirby, Travis Bergeron and his fiancee Patricia Steady of West Barnet, and Courtney Bergeron of St. Johnsbury; three great-grandchildren, Katelynn Rose Bean of St. Johnsbury, Arik and Lindsey Bergeron of Kirby; one brother, Armand Bergeron and his wife Eula of Lyndonville; one sister, Rose (Bergeron) Mathews of Florida; and several nieces and nephews. Eli was an auto mechanic by trade. He worked many years driving a wrecker for Wayne Ford. He had a great love for dogs and raised and trained beagles. He was an active member of VT Beagle Club and he acquired many trophies and ribbons. He was also an active member of the Field and Stream Club. Friends may call this evening, Monday, at the Sayles Funeral Home from 6-6:45 p.m. A memorial service will follow beginning at 7 p.m. with Pastor Rick Menard officiating. Burial with military honors will be held at Mt. Calvary Cemetery, Friday, May 7, at 3 p.m. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be sent in memory of Eli Bergeron to the VT Beagle Club, 50 Flanders Road, Fairfax, VT 05454.

, of St. Johnsbury, passed away peacefully at her Southard Street home Sunday morning, Dec. 21, 2003 at the age of 87. Lucy worked 34 years at WT Grant Co. on Railroad Street where she was manager of the women's wear department. She retired from Zayre's at the Green Mt. Mall in 1982. She was a parishioner at St. John the Evangelist Church; her faith was an important part of her life. She loved gardening, sewing and cooking, which was enjoyed by the entire family. She was born in St. Johnsbury, Feb. 11, 1916, the last survivor of eight children born to George and Clara (Castonguay) Belanger. She married Rudolph R. Fortin Nov. 27, 1958; he predeceased her March 30, 1966. She was predeceased by four brothers, Henry Belanger in 1933, Millard Belanger in 1994, Raymond Belanger in 1998, and Camille Belanger in 2003; and three sisters, Robertine Jarry in 1994, Jeannette Belanger in 1995, and Germaine Brooks in 1996. She is survived by her husband's two sisters, Sr. Theresa Fortin of Connecticut, and Giovanne Belanger of Danville; her husband's brother, Christopher Fortin and his wife Pauline of St. Johnsbury; her husband's sister-in-law, Virginia Fortin of St. Johnsbury; and nieces, nephews, grand-nieces and -nephews, and cousins. She will be greatly missed by all who loved her. A funeral Mass will be celebrated Saturday, Dec. 27, at 11 a.m., at St. John the Evangelist Church. Burial will be in May at Mt. Calvary Cemetery. Visiting hours will be held at the funeral home Friday, from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. Memorial contributions may be directed to Good Shepherd Foundation, P.O. Box 146, St. Johnsbury, VT 05819.

, 78, of Colchester, Conn., beloved wife of Henry C. Setterstrom, died at Middlesex Memorial Hospital, Monday, Dec. 22, 2003, surrounded by her loving family. Arlene was born in Norwich, Conn., Sept. 27, 1925, the daughter of the late Joseph R. and Agnes (Hallahan) Yerrington. She married her beloved husband, Henry, May 16, 1949. They moved to Colchester in 1959, where Arlene devoted many years as a nurse with Dr. Conrad and local convalescent homes, caring for the people in the Colchester area. She was a communicant of St. Mark Lutheran Church in Norwich, Conn. Including her husband, she leaves a daughter and son-in-law, Gail and Joseph Churney of East Haddam; two sons and daughters-in-law, Barry and Ciel Setterstrom of Andover and Paul and Joyce Setterstrom of Colchester. Also mourning her loss are her sister and brother-in-law, Mary Elizabeth and James Moran of Northford, Conn.; two grandchildren, Jenna Purdell of East Haddam, and Brian Churney of Bath, Maine; and a dearly loved great-granddaughter, Phoebe. In her retirement, Arlene enjoyed traveling across the country with Henry, making life-long friends and memories wherever she visited. She was especially fond of spending time with her husband and friends in Newark and West Burke, Vt. She enjoyed volunteering her time to others in many ways, including Meals on Wheels, church functions, Girl Scouts, and helping others in need. The family wishes to sincerely thank all the physicians and staff at Middlesex Memorial Hospital for the care and compassion given to Arlene, with a special heartfelt thank you to her nurse Kathie, whose compassion and guidance consoled the family during this difficult time. A memorial service for Arlene will be held Saturday, Dec. 27, at 11 a.m. at St. Mark Lutheran Church, 248 Broadway, Norwich, Conn. In lieu of flowers, donations in Arlene's memory may be made to St. Mark Lutheran Church.

, 52, passed away Sunday, Dec. 21, 2003, at her residence in St. Johnsbury. Nancy, the daughter of Nelson H. and Jean (Elder) Chamberlin, was born in Woodsville, N.H., April 8, 1951. She married Gerald A. Zickler, April 7, 1973, in Lyme, N.H. Education was an important part of Nancy's life. She was an art history major receiving her bachelor's degree from the University of New Hampshire, her teaching certificate from Plymouth State, and her master's degree in family and consumer science at UVM. Nancy was an art teacher, currently teaching at the Waterford and Gilman schools and the Monroe School in Monroe, N.H. Nancy loved to travel and study art and culture of other countries. Her travels took her to Japan, Russia and Greece, just to name a few. Nancy loved sailing, and for the past few summers she had the opportunity to sail as an assistant cook aboard the American Eagle out of Rockland, Maine. Nancy was an avid quilter and rug hooker. Nancy is survived by her loving husband, Gerald A. Zickler of St. Johnsbury; two sons, Kenneth Edwin Zickler of Colchester, and Andrew Taylor Zickler of St. Johnsbury; her mother, Jean E. Chamberlin of Bath, N.H.; two brothers, Gary Chamberlin and his wife Marilyn of St. Johnsbury, and Neil Chamberlin and his wife Marie of Bath; a sister, Gail Eames and her husband David of North Haverhill, N.H.; her mother-in-law, Dorothy A. Zickler of St. Johnsbury; and several nieces and nephews. Funeral services will be held at the South Congregational Church, Wednesday, Dec. 24, at 10 a.m. with the Rev. Steven Winkler officiating. The family will receive friends this evening between the hours of 5-8 p.m. at the Sayles Funeral Home. Interment will be in the spring. Memorial contributions may be sent to the Nancy Zickler Memorial Fund, in care of the Passumpsic Savings Bank, 1236 Main St., St. Johnsbury, VT 05819.

, 80, of Midland, Mich., loving husband and father, went to glory Sunday, Dec. 21, 2003. The son of the Rev. Ralph and Lois (Peterson) Metcalf was born July 7, 1923 in Titusville, Pa. He was predeceased by his parents and his sister, Marjorie Metcalf. He served as pastor for many churches from the time he was a young man. He was serving as pastor at the Bethel Church of the Nazarene, a church he previously served more than 20 years ago. He is survived by his wife of 58 years, Lois Metcalf of Midland, Mich.; his son, Richard Lee and his wife Kim Metcalf of Lacey, Wash.; his daughters, Ruth Anne Metcalf of Columbus, Ohio, and Geraldine Mae and her husband Greg Rosser of Columbus, Ohio; his grandsons, Arthur Metcalf and Andy Metcalf. Funeral services will be held at the Plymouth Congregational Church, East Charleston, Vt., Saturday, Dec. 27, 2003, at 10:30 a.m., with the Rev. Paul Willette officiating. Visiting hours will be from 9 a.m. to the beginning of services. Burial will be in the Hillside Cemetery in East Charleston in the spring 2004. Those planning an expression of sympathy are asked to consider the Bethel Church of the Nazarene, 5441 North Jefferson Road, Midland, MI 48462.

, of St. Johnsbury, died Thursday, Dec. 25, 2003, at Northeastern Vermont Regional Hospital at the age of 42. He was born in Hillsborough, N.H. on Aug. 24, 1961, the son of Bernard W. and Pauline (Garfield) Coburn. Since 1993, Coburn owned and operated Connecticut Valley Roofing & Painting. Mike was an avid collector of cards especially baseball and football. Survivors include his wife Diane (Sylvain) Coburn, and their children Amber, Tameka, Ashley and Nickolas, all of St. Johnsbury; mother Pauline and her husband Charles O'Brien of TN; three siblings, Paula Walker and children Jerika and Brannon of ME; Kathy Coburn of NH; Wayne and his wife Chris Coburn of NC. Other survivors include in-laws Rose and Patrick Sylvain of St. Johnsbury; Roger and his wife Sherry Sylvain and their children Joseph, Nicholas and Sarah of St. Johnsbury; Lorraine Sylvain of Charlotte, Vt.; Raymond and his wife Jody Sylvain and their children Tyler and Sammy of St. Johnsbury; Pauline Sylvain of St. Johnsbury; Jeannette and her husband Nickolas Wright of Barnet. A funeral service will be held at St. John the Evangelist Church in St. Johnsbury on Monday, Dec. 29 at 11 a.m. with Father Patrick Forman officiating. A family burial will be held at a later date. Friends are invited to meet the family Sunday evening, Dec. 28 at Sayles Funeral Home between 6 and 9 p.m. Contributions in his memory may be made to CALEX Ambulance, P.O. Box 570, St. Johnsbury VT 05819.

71, of McIndoe Falls, died peacefully Thursday, Dec. 25, 2003, with family by her side, at Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center. She was the wife of CMSgt. Charles A. Joyce III, USAF Retired. Born Feb. 10, 1932, in St. Johnsbury, she was the daughter of the late T.A. and Alice Cormier. Kate was an avid bingo player and leaves many friends in the St. Johnsbury area. She touched many different lives in different ways. We know it's not how long you live in this life, it's what you do with the time you are given. Kate gave of herself to everyone she met and had a wonderful soul for all to see. She will be greatly missed, but fondly remembered, by her many friends and family. Besides her husband of 50 years, she is survived by five children; Leah M. Parish and her husband Roger of Bossier City, LA, Gregory A. and his wife Frieda Joyce of The Woodlands, TX, Patrick C. and his wife Giseli Joyce of St. Louis, MO, Nancy A. and her husband Denis Noel of North Bennington, and Joanne M. and her husband David Lepine of Fonda, NY. She is also survived by 14 grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. A funeral Mass will be celebrated Wednesday, Dec. 31 at 11 a.m. at St. John the Evangelist Church. Burial will be in the springtime at the McIndoe Falls Cemetery. Visiting hours will be held at the Sayles Funeral Home Tuesday, Dec. 30, from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m.

, 93, passed away Tuesday, Dec. 23, 2003, at the St. Johnsbury Health and Rehabilitation Center. Albertine worked at Fairbanks/Colt Industries for 30 years. She lived in her house at the former 470 Pearl St. for over 50 years. The house was torn down last year to augment the Passumpsic Savings Bank parking lot. It is estimated Albertine knitted over 3,000 pairs of mittens over the years for the Santa Fund. She was a member of the Ladies of Ste. Anne, the Altar Society, Union St. Jean de Baptiste, St. Johns Golden Age Club and Fairbanks Golden Age Club. She was born in Stratford Center, Quebec, Oct. 25, 1910, the daughter of Ernest and Alice (Paquin) Gauthier. She married Aime T.J. Sicard at the Immaculate Conception Church in Sherbrooke Sept. 2, 1935, and had resided in St. Johnsbury since. Her husband predeceased her in 1970. She is survived by a brother, Theogene Gauthier of Cap-de-la-Madeleine, QU; a sister-in-law, Gaetane Martel of Quebec City; and several nieces, nephews and godchildren. She was predeceased by her sisters, Marie Jeanne Paquin and Mrs. Gertrude Hamelin; a half-sister, Esther Martel; brothers and sisters-in-law, Mr. and Mrs. Albert Sicard of McIndoe Falls, Mr. and Mrs. Raymond Sicard of Greenfield, Mass., and Mrs. Dorothy Mayhew of St. Johnsbury Center. A funeral Mass will be celebrated Saturday, Dec. 27, at 1 p.m., at St. John the Evangelist Church. Fr. Paul Houde, family friend, and Fr. Jacques Paquin, her nephew, will concelebrate the Mass. Committal services will be held at Mt. Calvary Cemetery Tuesday, May 4, 2004 at 11 a.m. Visiting hours will be held at the funeral home Friday from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. Memorial contributions may be directed to The Good Shepherd Foundation, P.O. Box 146, St. Johnsbury, VT 05819.

, 93, of St. Johnsbury, passed away Christmas Day 2003. She had formerly resided at 53 Summer St., and had been at the St. Johnsbury Health and Rehab Center since 1995. Beryl had worked at Fairbanks for 30 years and was a past treasurer of the Fairbanks Golden Age Club. She later worked for Howard Byron at his Mobil station as his bookkeeper. She was born Oct. 25, 1910 in Sheffield, the daughter of Bert and Gladys (Moore) Greene. She was predeceased by her husband Elmer in 1977; a daughter, Elizabeth Coburn in 1995; and a brother, William Greene. She is survived by one daughter, Barbara Fino of Pompano Beach, Fla.; three grandchildren, Kevin Racine and his wife Claudia of Danville, Denise Lawson and her husband Keith of Beverly Hills, Fla., and Nicole Doherty of Pompano Beach, Fla.; eight great-grandchildren and nine great-great-grandchildren. Funeral services will be held Sunday, Dec. 28, at 2 p.m., at the Sayles Funeral Home with Mr. John Sleeper officiating. Burial will be in May at the Mt. Pleasant Cemetery. Visiting hours will be held at the funeral home Saturday, Dec. 27, from 6-8 p.m. Memorial contributions may be directed to Caledonia Home Health Care, P.O. Box 383, St. Johnsbury, VT 05819.

, of 145 Webster St., St. Johnsbury, died at Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center Dec. 27, 2003, following a brief illness. The end was difficult and brief, but the time was well spent. Michael was strongly supported by the love of friends and family. He "did it his way" with courage, grace and dignity; he never lost his sense of humor. Born Nov. 7, 1932 in Red Bank, N.J., Michael was the son of Llewelyn and Marie (Farrell) Griffin. He attended schools in New Jersey and New York City as well as St. Johnsbury. In 1968 he graduated from Franklin Technical Institute for Commercial and Industrial Photography. From 1951-1955 he was in the U.S. Air Force, serving in Korea and Southeast Asia. He worked in many different areas throughout his life, including real estate, photography, retail sales, and in newspaper sales and production. From 1973-1978 he was the housing program director for OCCSA. He retired from the Caledonian-Record in 1994. Michael enjoyed many things. He was an avid reader, loved to go south in the winter, was a photography buff, enjoyed gardening and his cats. There was very little that did not pique his interest in some way and he was a glutton for knowledge. He and Bonnie spent a great deal of time at area auctions searching for the "sleeper" that might show up in their antique business. In 1964 he married Bonnie (Boardman) Griffin. Together they created a unique family. Adopting two children, they also were foster parents to many children for over 25 years. Michael was gentle, if somewhat gruff to all the children, yet instilled in them a feeling of safety and a strong sense of their own worth and potential. Michael and Bonnie lived for many years in West Barnet. His happiest memories were of their little farm, gardening and the "kids." He was predeceased by his parents; a brother, Dr. William Griffin; brother-in-law, Lance Boardman; and his father-in-law, Gordon Boardman. He is survived by his wife, Bonnie; their daughters, Michelle Griffin and friend Lee Smith, and Norene Menard; granddaughter, Brie-Anna Menard; his mother-in-law, Shirley Boardman; sisters-in-law, Julie Boardman and Fran Boardman; brother-in-law, James Boardman; and several nieces and nephews, grand-nieces and grand-nephews. In addition, he is remembered by many foster children that resided in the Griffin home over the years. For many of these "kids," he was the only father they ever knew. He also had many special foster grandchildren. Memorial services will be held Saturday, Jan. 17, 2004, at 2 p.m., at the North Congregational Church. The pastor, the Rev. Jay Sprout, will officiate. In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to the St. Johnsbury Athenaeum, 1171 Main St., St. Johnsbury, VT 05819.

, 87, of North Road, Guildhall, died Saturday afternoon, Dec. 27, 2003, at the Littleton Regional Hospital. Mrs. Holcomb was born in New York City, N.Y., Aug. 6, 1916, the daughter of Michael and Marie H. (Fricke) Newell. Growing up in Astoria, Long Island, N.Y., she attended Julia Richmond School in New York City. Her summers were spent in southwestern Massachusetts, eventually moving to Colebrook, Conn. (Robertsville area) and graduating from Gilbert High School in 1934. On Sept. 14, 1936, she married Merritt H. Holcomb in Millerton, N.Y. After spending time each summer with relatives in Vermont, they purchased the Mill Brook Farm in Guildhall in 1953. September marked 67 years of marriage. Mrs. Holcomb is a former town auditor, town service officer and former town planning board member. She enjoyed "Terrier" breeds of dogs, flower gardening, sewing, cooking and watching cooking shows. She compiled the Guildhall Cook Book in 1975 and was bookkeeper for her husband's business. She was also a former telephone operator for New England Telephone and Telegraph during World War II and medical secretary. Memberships include the Guildhall Community Church, the Guildhall Home Demonstration Club, Guildhall Community Club and the Connecticut Valley SnoRiders. She served on the UVM Extension Services Board for Essex County in the 1970s and received a 25-year certificate for services as a Guildhall Town Officer in 2001. She dearly loved all her grandchildren and great-grandson, who were very precious to her. They affectionately called her Gay-Gay. An excellent cook, they will forever remember her homemade rolls, known as "Gay-Gay's rolls." Family members include her husband of Guildhall; a daughter, Patricia Ellen (Holcomb) Rogers and her husband Allison W. Rogers of Guildhall; a son, Dr. James N. Holcomb and his wife Jean C. Holcomb of Newport; grandchildren, Thomas M. Rogers and his wife Dawn, Sarah Anne Holcomb, Elizabeth K. Holcomb, James Merritt Holcomb, Meghan W. Holcomb, and Rachel P. Holcomb; great-grandson, Thomas M. Rogers Jr.; five sisters-in-law; one brother-in-law; one cousin; and several nieces and nephews. Visiting hours will be held Tuesday, Dec. 30, from 6-8 p.m., at the Bailey Funeral Home, Lancaster. A funeral service will be held Wednesday at 11 a.m. at the Guildhall Community Church. The Rev. Gerry Piper of Gilman will officiate. Burial will be in the spring in Ridgwell Cemetery, Guildhall. Memorial donations may be made to the Cardiac Unit at Weeks Medical Center, Middle Street, Lancaster, NH 03584.

71, of McIndoe Falls, died peacefully Thursday, Dec. 25, 2003, with family by her side, at Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center. She was the wife of CMSgt. Charles A. Joyce III, USAF Retired. Born Feb. 10, 1932, in St. Johnsbury, she was the daughter of the late T.A. and Alice Cormier. Kate was an avid bingo player and leaves many friends in the St. Johnsbury area. She touched many different lives in different ways. We know it's not how long you live in this life, it's what you do with the time you are given. Kate gave of herself to everyone she met and had a wonderful soul for all to see. She will be greatly missed, but fondly remembered, by her many friends and family. Besides her husband of 50 years, she is survived by five children, Leah M. Parish and her husband Roger of Bossier City, La., Gregory A. and his wife Frieda Joyce of The Woodlands, Texas, Patrick C. and his wife Giseli Joyce of St. Louis, Mo., Nancy A. and her husband Denis Noel of North Bennington, and Joanne M. and her husband David Lepine of Fonda, N.Y. She is also survived by 14 grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. A funeral Mass will be celebrated Wednesday, Dec. 31, at 11 a.m., at St. John the Evangelist Church. Burial will be in the springtime at the McIndoe Falls Cemetery. Visiting hours will be held at Sayles Funeral Home, Tuesday, Dec. 30, from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. Memorial contributions may be directed to CALEX Ambulance, P.O. Box 570, St. Johnsbury, VT 05819.

, 59, of Hinman Settler Road, Derby, passed away at his home Saturday, Dec. 27, 2003. He was born in Newport Oct. 5, 1944, the son of Lawrence and Margaret (Smith) Kelley. In 1967 he married the former Diane Cloutier. Russell was an active farmer most of his life until he and his wife started a Custom Service Business for area farmers in 1988. In his spare time he enjoyed snowmobiling and four-wheeling. Russell is survived by his wife, Diane; his mother, Margaret Kelley of Derby; his children, Daniele Simpson and her husband John of Sutton, Larry Kelley and his wife Peggy of Derby, and Shawn Kelley of Derby; his grandchildren, Jaclyn, Amanda, Stephanie and Melissa Simpson, Caleb and Travis Kelley; his sister, Clara Jean Kelley of Highpoint, N.C.; and several aunts, uncles, nieces and nephews. Funeral services will be held Tuesday, Dec. 30, at the Curtis-Britch Converse-Rushford Funeral Home, Darling Hill Road, Newport (formerly Sias Ave.) at 2 p.m. with the Rev. Yvon Royer officiating. Friends may call at the funeral home one hour prior to the service Tuesday afternoon. Should friends desire, contributions in Russell's memory may be made to the Orleans-Essex VNA & Hospice, Inc., 46 Lakemont Road, Newport, VT 05855; or to the Orleans County Fair Youth Cattle, in care of Rupert Chamberlain, 1552 Chamberlain Road, Barton, VT 05822.

, 55, formerly of Middletown, N.Y. and Ventura, Calif., died Dec. 24, 2003, at Vermont Respite House in Williston, Vt., after a courageous battle with lung cancer. The daughter of the late Frank S. Berrian and Katherine Morgan Berrian, she was born Aug. 29, 1948 in Middletown. Pat attended Middletown schools and grew up in Middletown. She moved to Walden, Vt., then later to Ventura, Calif. Recently she returned to Middletown to care for her parents, and worked as a case worker for Rural Opportunities until her illness. A family statement reads: "She dedicated her life to the service of others, she loved to help people. Pat was a very special person whose presence will be missed by the many lives she touched." Pat is survived by her daughter, Christian West Morgan; and two grandsons, Maxwell Fletcher and Benjamin Certa, all of South Burlington, Vt.; two brothers, Frank Berrian of Beach Lake, Pa., and John Berrian and his wife Jo-Ann of Middletown, N.Y.; a sister-in-law, Barbara Berrian of Cheshire, Mass.; several aunts, uncles, nieces and nephews; and close friends, Linda Boyd of Ventura, Calif., Pat and Bruce Rogers of Glenrock, Pa., and Marie Hayes of Santa Barbara, Calif. She was predeceased by her parents, Frank and Katherine; her husband, John Morgan; and one brother, Roger. Friends may call Friday, Jan. 2, 2004, from 2-4 and 7-9 p.m., at Applebee-McPhillips Funeral Home, Inc., 130 Highland Ave., Middletown, NY 10940. A funeral service will be held Saturday, Jan. 3, at 10 a.m., at the funeral home, the Rev. Susan Faye Wonderland will officiate. Cremation will take place at Cedar Hill Crematory, Middle Hope, N.Y. Patricia's family would like to thank the staff of Vermont Respite House for the excellent care they provided for Pat, and the comfort they gave to her and her family and friends. Memorial contributions in her name may be made to Vermont Respite House, 99 Allenbrook Lane, Williston, VT 05495.

, 60, of Morningside Drive, Laconia, N.H., died at home Saturday, Dec. 27, 2003, after a long illness. Born in Littleton, N.H., March 30, 1943, she was the daughter of George and Elizabeth (Jackson) Edson. She grew up in Littleton and was a graduate of Littleton High School and Endicott College in Beverly, Mass. She moved to Laconia in 1968. She enjoyed spending time with family and friends, gardening, antiquing and knitting. She was an avid skier all of her life. She was the beloved wife of 40 years of Donald Hart Roper. Besides her husband, she leaves her daughter, Tracy (Roper) Poirot and her husband David of Simsbury, Conn.; her daughter Kimberly (Roper) Dewsnap and her husband Brian of Rye, N.H.; five grandchildren who were her pride and joy, Sarah, Benjamin and Georgia Poirot, and Jack and Haley Dewsnap; two sisters, Fay (Edson) Lloyd of Bethlehem, N.H., and Gail (Edson) Girouard of Littleton; and several nieces and nephews. A memorial service will be held in the Carriage House of the Wilkinson-Beane Funeral Home, 164 Pleasant St., Laconia, N.H., Friday, Jan. 2, 2004, at 11 a.m. The Rev. Jonathan MacKenzie, rector of St. James Episcopal Church, will officiate. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Community Health and Hospice, 780 North Main St., Laconia, NH 03246.

, 91, Whitefield, N.H., passed into God's hands Dec. 25, 2003, at the Morrison Nursing Home. Woodrow was born a son to Samuel and Cora (Hatch) Stillings July 2, 1912 in Bartlett, N.H. He was a decorated war veteran, having served in the U.S. Army for a period of five years during World War II. Woodrow worked in the local shoe industry for more than 40 years. Prior to that he helped operate the family farm. Woodrow was well-known for his daily walks around town even into his 90s. He loved to greet everyone he met with a smile and a wave. His hobbies were woodworking and tinkering with just about everything. He loved to hunt, fish and take long rides with his wife. Surviving family members include his wife of 50 years, Frances Nelson Stillings of Littleton; three stepchildren, Nancy Gibeau of Gilmanton, N.H., Loxley Ness of Monroe, N.H., and Elaine Koczur of Littleton, N.H.; as well as many nieces, nephews and stepgrandchildren. Four sisters, six brothers and one stepdaughter predeceased him. At the request of the family, there will be no calling hours. A graveside service is planned at a later date in the spring, which will be announced. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his memory to the Society for the Preservation of the New Hampshire Forests, 54 Portsmouth St., Concord, NH 03301 or info@spnhf.org.

, 56, of Hilltop Road, Littleton, N.H., died suddenly, Monday, Dec. 29, 2003, at Littleton Regional Hospital. He was born in Troy, Vt., the son of William and Zilda (Santaw) Bocash. He graduated from high school in North Troy, Vt. After high school he joined the U.S. Army and served in the Vietnam War. He lived for a short time in Newport, Vt., and made his home in Littleton in 1972. He worked as a manager for Aubuchon Hardware store in Lincoln, N.H. He loved the outdoors and enjoyed fishing, hunting and boating. He enjoyed playing the guitar and wood working. He was well-known for his sense of humor, and was called "The Jack of all Trades," "Cochise" and "Captain Marvel." Besides his family he loved his dog "Buddy." He is survived by his parents of Enosburg, Vt.; his wife, Ann Bocash of Littleton; three sons, Michael Bocash of Portsmouth, N.H., Bill Bocash of Berwick, Maine, and Bill Lemire of Littleton; two daughters, Vicki Bocash of Pascoag, R.I., and Jennifer Lemire of Littleton; two sisters, Marcia Litchfield of Mesa, Ariz., and Valerie Allen of Richford, Vt. A celebration of life will take place Saturday, Jan. 3, at 2 p.m., at the All Saints Episcopal Church, Littleton, with the Rev. Barbara Thrall officiating. A reception will follow at the Elks Lodge, Bethlehem Road, Bethlehem. Donations may be made in Michael's memory to Trout Unlimited, Ammonoosuc 554, in care of Ed Letson, 228 High St., Littleton, NH 03561.

, 94, of Gilman, Vt., died Monday evening Dec. 29, 2003, at the Coos County Nursing Hospital, West Stewartstown, N.H. Mrs. Damon was born in West Stewartstown, Nov. 12, 1909, the daughter of Arthur A. and Grace M. (Brainard) Fissette. She was raised in West Stewartstown and later married James W. Damon and moved to Gilman. For a time she was employed at the Gilman Paper Company and for many years was the school cook at Lunenburg Elementary School. She also raised approximately 50 foster children and was an outdoor person who enjoyed hunting, fishing, gardening and animals, especially horses. Family members include three sons, Loren Damon of South Lunenburg, Vt., Gary Damon of Greensboro Bend, Vt., and William H. Brown of Gilman; a daughter, Mary Brown of Gilman; eight grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by James on Dec. 28, 1978; a son, Glenn Aldrich; two daughters, Leone Goulet and Norma Burt; and a brother, Wilfred Fissette. Visiting hours will be held Friday afternoon and evening Jan. 2, from 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. at the Bailey Funeral Home, Lancaster. A funeral service will be held Saturday, Jan. 3, at 11 a.m., at the Gilman Methodist Church. The Rev. Gerry Piper, pastor, will officiate. Burial will be held in the spring in Riverside Cemetery, South Lunenburg. Memorial donations may be made in her memory to Gilman Rescue, P.O. Box 132, Gilman VT 05906, or The Lancaster Ambulance Association, in care of Ron Wert, 25 Main Street, Lancaster NH 03584.

, 83, formerly of Lisbon, N.H., passed away at the Lebanon Health Care Center, Lebanon, N.H., Monday, Dec. 29, 2003, after a short illness. She was born in Berlin, N.H., the daughter of Rudolph and Louise (Philbrick) Larson. She had resided in Lisbon for many years, was an ardent homemaker, loving mother, and was also devoted to her flower gardens and knitting. She regularly hosted coffee socials at her residence for her many friends. She was predeceased by her husband Maurice. She is survived by a son, Donald Smith of Somers, Conn.; a daughter, Carol Cullen of Littleton, N.H.; three grandchildren, Danielle Cullen, Paul Smith and Debra Collins; three great-grandchildren; and a sister, Pauline Mackay of Victor, N.Y. A memorial service will be held at the Ross Funeral Home, Lisbon Chapel, Saturday, Jan. 3, at 11 a.m., with the Rev. Lyn McIntosh officiating. Burial will take place in the spring in the Grove Hill Cemetery, Lisbon. Donations in her memory may be made to the North Country Home Health Agency, 536 Cottage St., Littleton, NH 03561, or to the Lisbon Life Squad, in care of Lisbon Fire Department, School Street, Lisbon, NH 03585.