, 85, of Holland died June 2, 2007, in Newport. Mrs. Graves was born March 21, 1922, in Raymond, New Hampshire, a daughter of Arthur and Blanche (Fisk) Ball. She married Theodore "Ted" Graves on January 11, 1942. He predeceased her March 8, 1999. She was previously employed by Union Butterfields in the shipping department. She is survived by children: Richard Graves and his wife, Judy, of West Charleston, Judith Graves of Derby, Darrell Graves of Holland, and Jana Graves of West Charleston; by four grandchildren: Tracey Acebo, Sue Graves, David Graves, and Samantha Graves; by three great-granddaughters; by one great-grandson; by her daughter-in-law Elizabeth Graves of Newport; by three sisters: Doris James of Epping, New Hampshire, Ruth Johnson of Greensboro, North Carolina, and Marlene McFarland of Newmarket, New Hampshire; and by brothers Arthur Ball of Peshastian, Washington, and George William Ball of Lee, New Hampshire. She was predeceased by a daughter, Joyce E. Wales, in 2004. Services will be held at the convenience of the family. In lieu of flowers, donations in Mrs. Graves' memory may be made to the American Heart Association, Vermont Affiliate, 434 Hurricane Lane, Williston, Vermont 05495.

, 85, retired United States Army officer, director of education, sportsman, business owner, and artist, died in Tucson, Arizona, on March 11, 2007. Mr. Cushing was born March 7, 1922, in Mansonville, Quebec, and grew up in North Troy. He married Madeleine "Peanut" Cadieux of North Troy on January 8, 1945. He is survived by his children: Linda Miller, Wan Hallock, and Norman Cushing; by grandchildren: Meghan and Madeleine Miller, Stephanie Shrout, and Cody Cushing; by a great-grandchild, Cassandra Shrout; and by his sisters: Geneva Orne, Janet Highland, and Florence Kotoff. Other siblings included Irene Placey and Lawrence and Leo Cushing. Friends may call from 7 to 9 p.m. on Friday, June 15, at the Curtis-Britch Converse-Rushford Funeral Home on Darling Hill Road in Newport where a service will be held at 1 p.m. on Saturday, June 16. Interment will follow in Notre Dame Cemetery in North Troy.

, 85, of Newport, beloved husband of Pauline, died peacefully on June 6, 2007, at the Newport Health Care Center. Mr. Bouffard was born in Newport on October 18, 1921, a son of Arestide and Antionnette (Vigneault) Bouffard. He was born into a very industrious family, and at an early age, he helped his father on his meat and milk routes. He attended Sacred Heart School, and upon graduation from its business course, he went to work full time for First National Stores. His employment with that company was interrupted by World War II. He served with the Army's military police from October 1942 to February 1946. Upon his discharge from the service, he returned to First National, managing stores until 1950 when he went to work for his brothers in their St. Johnsbury market. On November 6, 1950, he married Pauline Rice in St. Aloysius Church in St. Johnsbury. They were blessed with their children and 56 years together. In 1953 he and his brother Paul opened Bouffard's Market in Newport, where he worked for 25 years. He held the distinction of being a Knights of Columbus member for almost 66 years. He is survived by his wife, Pauline; by a daughter, Patricia Dobson, and her husband, James; by a son, Raymond Bouffard, and his wife, Claudette; by daughter in-law Laura Wheatly; by four grandchildren: Rachael, Nathan, Elise, and Matthew; by two brothers, Gerard Bouffard and his wife, Frances, and Paul Bouffard and his wife, Denise; by sisters-in-law Jo Ann Gieselman and Rita Bouffard; and by many nieces, nephews, and cousins. He was predeceased by a son, Robert Bouffard, in 2000; by brothers: George, Eugene, and Francis; and by sisters: Louise, Sister Helen, Sister Aimee, Bernadette, and Sister Rose-Angeline. Funeral services were held June 9 at St. Mary, Star of the Sea, Catholic Church in Newport with the Reverend Philip Branon celebrating a Mass of Christian Burial. Interment followed at St. Mary's Cemetery in Newport with full military honors. Should friends desire, contributions in Mr. Bouffard's memory may be made to the Newport Ambulance Service, P.O. Box 911, Newport, Vermont 05855; to Orleans-Essex Visiting Nurses Association and Hospice, 46 Lakemont Road, Newport, Vermont 05855; or to St. Mary, Star of the Sea, Catholic Church, 191 Clermont Terrace, Newport, Vermont 05855.

at Welcome O. Brown Cemetery in Barton on Saturday, June 16, at 1 p.m. Refreshments will be served at the Barton United Church immediately following.

, beloved husband of Cathie, who died in Albany on February 23, 2007, will be held at the Albany Village Cemetery on Friday, June 15, at 2 p.m. with the Reverend John Genco officiating.

will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, June 16, at Pleasantview Cemetery in Orleans with the Reverend Gerry Piper officiating.

, 77, of Glover died peacefully on June 9, 2007, in Lebanon, New Hampshire. A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. on Saturday, June 30, at the home of Mr. Sargent and the Cochran family at 744 Dexter Mountain Road in Glover.

, 77, of Gainesville, Georgia, formerly of Derby, died June 7, 2007, in Gainesville. Mr. Somerville was born November 16, 1929, in Brooklyn, New York, a son of the late Joseph Botsford and Florence Farrier. He came to Derby in 1969. He was an air traffic controller for the Federal Aviation Agency in Hillard, Florida. He entered the United States Navy and served for ten years aboard the USS Shannon during the Korean War. He was well known for his gun and antique shop located in his home on the West Charleston Road in Derby. He held membership with the National Rifle Association and the Ruger Collection Association. He was known for his American flag wood carvings, which he gave to his family and friends and sold to different organizations. He carved the large wooden cross that now hangs in the sanctuary at the United Church of Newport. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, and black powder shooting, and he was well known and respected for his knowledge with the history of guns. He is survived by his wife of 56 years, Ann Somerville, of Gainesville; by his children: Joseph Somerville Jr. and his wife, Melinda, of Gainesville, Ann Fogg and her husband, Scott, of Bristol, New Hampshire, Mark Somerville and his wife, Helene, of Hookset, New Hampshire, and George Somerville of Ballgound, Georgia; by grandchildren: Matthew, Emily, and Eva Porter, Luke, Ashley, and Christianna Somerville, Johnathan and Katherin Somerville, and Braid Rogers; and by a brother, George T. Somerville, of Fletcher, North Carolina. He was predeceased by a daughter, Mary Jo Somerville; and by his stepfather, George Somerville. Graveside services will be held at 2 p.m. on Thursday, June 21, at the West Charleston Cemetery with the Reverend Roger Fletcher officiating with full military honors.

, 100, a daughter of the Charity of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, died on Tuesday, June 12, 2007, at Mount Sacred Heart Provincial House Infirmary. Sister Marie-Rémie was born in Magog, Quebec, on October 31, 1906, a daughter of Olivier Thomas and Marie Tremblay. She entered her religious congregation on January 2, 1930, and professed her vows with her religious congregation on August 17, 1931. During her 76 years of religious life, Sister Marie, known to most in the early years as Sister Rémie, taught primary students and worked with resident students in Newport from 1931 to 1961, and in Colebrook, New Hampshire, from 1961 to 1974. For many of those years while in Newport, she taught weekly or summer religious education (catechism) in area parishes and towns - Troy, Lowell, Orleans, Barton, Derby Line, and Greensboro. She considered herself semi-retired during her last few years in Colebrook, but she, in fact, was always helping someone in a classroom, supervising resident students, and acting as chapel sacristan. In 1974 she moved to Newport where she continued to serve as sacristan and receptionist until 1990. That year she joined the retirement community of the United States Province of the Daughters of the Charity of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, where she actively contributed to livening up her companions' day with her keen sense of humor. She enjoyed parties and celebrations, and made the most of her one-hundredth birthday celebration on Halloween Day 2006. Having outlived her numerous siblings, she had remained very close to her loving nieces, who faithfully visited her in Littleton, New Hampshire, and even a week ago enjoyed sharing memories and the customary sing-along before leaving. She was predeceased by 17 siblings. She is survived by many nieces and nephews and her religious Sisters in community. A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated at Mount Sacred Heart June 15. Interment took place in St. Mary's Cemetery in Newport.

, 81, of Barton died June 16, 2007, in Lebanon, New Hampshire. Mrs. Miller was born May 23, 1926, in East Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania, a daughter of Frank and Margaret (Lord) Miller. She was formerly married to Henry Thissell Van Gorden, who predeceased her in 1982. She was a seamstress for Courtland Novelty Company in East Stroudsburg, from which she retired. She enjoyed crocheting for friends. She showed her afghans at area shows and won several blue ribbons. She often spent hundreds of hours on a single afghan. She loved flowers and ceramics. She was a member of the Jehovah Witnesses of Newport. She is survived by her children: Stephen J. Van Gorden and his wife, Barbara, of Greenup, Kentucky, Gloria Jean Martinellie and her husband, Tom, of Florida, Donna Mae Laspina of Bradenton, Florida, Debbra Kay Scaggs and her husband, Phil, of Wilksbury, Pennsylvania, Wade A. Van Gorden and his wife, Dale, of White River Junction, and Denise Van Gorden of Coventry; by several grandchildren and great-grandchildren; by a brother, Charles, of Pennsylvania; and by sisters: Erva Dunlap of Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania, Millicent Allegar of Pennsylvania, and Delia Gilliard and Sevena Miller of Colorado. She was predeceased by two brothers, Frank and Clyde; and by two sisters, Shirley Haggerty and Joyce. Funeral services were held June 19 at the Curtis-Britch Converse-Rushford Funeral Home in Barton. Should friends desire, contributions in Mrs. Miller's memory may be made to the Dartmouth Cardiac Unit, Lebanon, New Hampshire 03766.

, 83, of Newport died peacefully June 11, 2007, in Newport. Mrs. Cote was born May 8, 1924, in Strattford, Quebec, a daughter of Arthur and Rose (Bergeron) Plante. On October 4, 1947, she married Roland Cote, who predeceased her in 1996. She and her husband owned a dairy farm in Derby Line for over 50 years. She was a member of St. Edward's Catholic Church and St. Edward's Ladies Society. She and her husband spent winters in Florida. She liked to knit and play bingo, and she was always ready to give a helping hand to her friends, family, and church. She is survived by her sons Marcel Cote of Newport and Richard Cote of Florida; by grandchildren: Michelle and her husband, Joel, of North Carolina, Raymond Cote of Florida and New York, and Robert, Michael, Mason, and Miriah Cote of Florida; by great-grandchildren Lena and Soleil Bella Mitrani; by her brother Noel Plante and his wife, Nancy, of Maine; by her sister Alice Mathieu of Montreal, Quebec; and by several nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her son Robert; and by three brothers: Leodard, Albert, and Emile. Funeral services were held June 16 at St. Edward's Catholic Church in Derby Line with the Reverend Philip Branon celebrating a Mass of Christian Burial. Interment followed in St. Edward's Catholic Cemetery in Derby Line. Should friends desire, contributions in Mrs. Cote's memory may be made to the Arthritis Foundation, Northern Northeast Branch, 6 Chenell Drive, Suite 260, Concord, NH 03301.

, 89, formerly of Brownington, died at Maple Lane Nursing Home in Barton on Saturday, June 9, 2007. Mrs. Burgess was born in Lee, Maine, on April 22, 1918, to Ardie and Mina Mae Worster. Later the family moved to Monroe, New Hampshire. Her first marriage was to Robert Linfield Ward, and her second marriage to Charles H. Burgess, both of Monroe. To these unions were born six children. During her lifetime she and her husbands operated farms in Monroe and Brownington. She and Mr. Burgess were also janitors for several years at the Monroe Town Hall. She is survived by sons Robert C. Ward and his wife, Dora, of Grand Island, Florida, and R. Theodore Ward and his wife, Sandi, of Hull, Massachusetts; by daughters: Patricia Whipple and her husband, Herb, of Littleton, New Hampshire, Beverly White and Larry Chase of Brownington, and Donna Burgess of Colchester; by her brother Ardie C. "Bob" Worster Jr. and his wife, Evelyn, of Gilman; by her sisters: Adria Wright of St. Johnsbury, Lucille Riley of Laconia, New Hampshire, and Olive Cheney and her husband, Raymond; and by many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren. She was predeceased by a son, Douglas Burgess; by her husband, Charles Burgess; by her granddaughter Lynn Marie Sherman; by sisters: Lillian, Stella, and Geneva; and by her brother Eugene. Bearers will be grandsons Gregory Abbott Jr., Reginald Abbott, Steve Abbott, Dwight Abbott, Douglas Abbott, and Bernard White Jr. Funeral services were held June 12 at Sayles Funeral Home with her nephew Pastor Richard Wright and Pastor Steve Bascom officiating. Burial followed at the North Monroe Cemetery.

, 82, of Westfield died peacefully June 15, 2007, in Newport. Mr. Bowen was born March 20, 1925, in North Troy, a son of Raymond and Myrtie (Pettengill) Bowen. He was employed as a machinist for Joy Manufacturing in Claremont, New Hampshire. He was a veteran of World War II. He is survivied by a daughter, Margaret Bowen, of Claremont; and by a brother, Dwight Bowen, of Newport. Funeral services will be held at 1 p.m. on Friday, June 22, at the Curtis-Britch Converse-Rushford Funeral Home on Darling Hill Road in Newport. Friends may call from noon until the hour of the service at the funeral home. Interment will follow in the Newport Center Cemetery.

, 72, of Lowell died June 15, 2007, in Newport. Mr. Benware was born October 1, 1935, in Newport, a son of Ralph and Pauline (Hill) Benware. He lived all of his life in Lowell and at one time was the caretaker for St. Ignatius Cemetery and Mountainview Cemetery in Lowell. He is survived by his sisters Jeannine Draper of Morrisville and Diane Benware of Johnson; by a brother, Durward Benware, of Lowell; and by two nieces and a nephew.

, 51, beloved husband of Trina, died suddenly in Coventry on June 11, 2007. Mr. Aicher was born April 16, 1956. He attended Fisher Begin High School in Philadelphia and a seminary in Levittown, Pennsylvania. He came to Newport and went to work for Phoenix Engineering. He also worked for the last seven years as a client caseworker for Northeast Kingdom Human Services. He married Trina on May 15, 2004. He loved music and played guitar, keyboard, and harmonica and wrote songs. He and his wife attended a couple of LeAnn Rimes concerts. He enjoyed the music of Bob Dylan and The Beatles. He and his wife liked traveling around the area, going to garage sales and to the ocean in Maine. He especially enjoyed spending time with his friends Mike and Bev Rondeau and co-worker and friend Kathy Etheze. Mark is survived by his wife, Trina; by brothers Ron Aicher and his wife, Dot, of Florida and Keith Aicher of Pennsylvania; by his godson Dean Ronald; by his nieces: Kimberly Miller, Candice Anthony, Christine Dislir, Kathryn Aicher, Rachel Bailey, Tiana Gosselin, Naula Gosselin, Skyla Wilson, and Perry Wilson; by nephews: Joe Wilson, Tucker Wilson, and Danny Gosselin Jr.; and by his special aunt and uncle Rose and Russell Harmon; by his father-in-law, John Bailey, and his fiancée, Kathy, of Craftsbury; by his brother-in-law John Bailey Jr. and his fiancée, Angelina, of Johnson; and by several aunts and uncles. A memorial service was held June 19 at a Curtis-Britch Converse-Rushford Funeral Home in Newport with the Reverend Chris Barton officiating. Interment will take place at a later date at the convenience of the family. Should friends desire, contributions in Mr. Aicher's memory may be sent to his niece Tiana Gosselin, who is going to be an exchange student in Japan and who Mr. Aicher dearly supported. Donations may be sent in care of Jami Blair, NorthCountry Federal Credit Union, Water Street, Orleans, Vermont 05860.

, 85, of San Antonio, Texas, died June 13, 2007. Mrs. Sharp was born November 18, 1921, in Burlington, and was adopted by Ferdinand and Elizabeth Blanchard. Her early years were spent in Johnson, and she vividly remembered the infamous Flood of 1927. Her family moved to Irish Hill in Lowell, and later she was raised by her beloved aunt Geneva and uncle Paul Blanchard on the family farm on the "flats" (Route 100) in Lowell. She left Vermont and moved to New York, where she worked, married, and started her family. She returned to Vermont and lived in Lowell, Newport Center, North Troy, Northfield, and Barre. She was a member of the American Legion in North Troy. She often spoke of the simpler times of her youth. She had skis made of wooden barrel ties, a feather bed, and hand-churned butter and ice cream. It was a time when work horses (Nancy and Maude) plowed the fields instead of a tractor, and Sunday night baths were given on the back porch in a round, metal washtub. Until she left home, she had never eaten store-bought bread, cookies, cakes, pies, or doughnuts. These were all made by Aunt Geneva using only a wood stove. She spoke of a time when the front parlor was used only for company - where real lace curtains hung and a shiny piano sat, which she was only allowed to dust. She wore dresses made by her aunt out of flour sacks. They were very pretty with prints and flowers on them. She used to chew spruce gum freshly removed from the trees, and fresh fruits and vegetables were available year-round from the farmhouse root cellar. Her uncle grew potatoes, and she spent many hours picking rocks from the potato field. She was a hard worker all her life and instilled these values into her children. She was a wonderful cook and a master at canning vegetables, fruits, all kinds of pickles, and relishes. Her gardens were plentiful, and her houseplants thrived. She loved to sew, and she made her children and grandchildren beautiful clothes and quilts. When she could no longer sew, she spent many hours doing cross-stitch. She loved to fly and spent the last years of her life in Florida and Texas with her children. She had a generous heart and helped anyone she could. She will be greatly missed; she is as unforgettable as are her stories, the history and values she impressed upon her children and grandchildren. She is survived by five daughters: Glenda White and her husband, Bill, and KathyPlourde and her husband, Ron, all of Kissimmee, Florida, Jackie Wood of Roxbury, Debbie Gulley and her husband, Royce, of Kerrville, Texas, and Evelyn Daring and her husband, Rusty, of Schertz, Texas; by 15 grandchildren; and by 16 great-grandchildren. She was predeceased by her sons Frederick White of Tampa, Florida, and Sterling "Butch" Whiteley of Northfield; by her brother William Blanchard; by her nephew Larry Blanchard; and by her grandson Zarod Williams of Roxbury.

, 77, of Glover died peacefully June 8, 2007, in Lebanon, New Hampshire. Mr. Sargent was born January 4, 1930, in Thetford, a son of William and Pearl (Aldrich) Sargent. He entered the U.S. Army and served his country during the Korean War. He was a ground foreman for American Airlines. He enjoyed fishing, hunting, gardening, and watching boxing, NASCAR races, and the Discovery Channel. He was a member of the National Rifle Association. He would go to his favorite place, The Busy Bee, to solve the problems of Glover. He is survived by daughters Robin Skolar of Florida and Tammy Cochran and her husband, Allen, of Glover; by his son Scott Geath of Egypt; and by his grandchildren: Sarah, Allison, Tabitha, Amanda, Daniel, Samantha, and Patrick; by a great-grandson, Blaze; by several nieces and nephews; and by his three dogs: Peek-A-Boo, Gizmo, and Missy, who went with him everywhere. He was predeceased by brothers: Fred, Roy, and Clyde; and by a sister, Dorothy. A celebration of his life will be held at 2 p.m. on Saturday, June 30, at the home of Mr. Sargent and the Cochrans at 744 Dexter Mountain Road in Glover. A cookout will follow the service. Should friends desire, contributions in Mr. Sargent's memory may be made to the Ron Holland M.D. Community Dialysis Center, in care of North Country Hospital, Prouty Drive, Newport, Vermont 05855.

, 84, of Derby died peacefully June 20, 2007, at her home in Derby. Mrs. Poginy was born December 16, 1922, in East Berkshire. She married Oliver Poginy on October 7, 1946. She is survived by her husband, Oliver Poginy, of Derby; by children: James Poginy and his wife, Netti, of Connecticut, Jane Abbott of Lyndonville, Carolyn Heath and her husband, Jerry, of North Hyde Park, Barbara Fisher and her husband, Gordon, of Littleton, New Hampshire, and Jerry Poginy and his wife, Marge, of Connecticut; by six grandchildren; by two great-grandchildren; and by a brother, James Marshall, and his wife, Suzanne, of Enosburg Falls. Funeral services were held June 26 at St. Edward's Catholic Church in Derby Line with the Reverend Yvon Royer celebrating a Mass of Christian Burial. Interment followed in St. Edward's Cemetery in Derby Line.

, 74, of Lowell and Bradenton, Florida, died peacefully on June 18, 2007, at his home with his family at his side. Mr. Murphy was born on January 31, 1933, in Lowell, a son of Henry and Bessie (Weed) Murphy. In his early years he farmed in Lowell for many years. He was a production manager for Kee Manufacturing Company and Trailmate, Incorporated, in Bradenton. He enjoyed spending winters in Bradenton, hunting, fishing, and woodworking. He was a member of St. Ignatius Catholic Church in Lowell and Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Bradenton. He is survived by his siblings: Mary Bonneau of Lowell, Julia Guillette and her husband, Andre, of Derby, William Murphy and his wife, Helen, of Johnson, and Linda Hill and her husband, Gilbert, of Lowell; by numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces and -nephews; by his sister-in-law Lena Murphy of Lowell; and by his companion, Emily Bartels, of Florida. He was predeceased by his brothers: Ralph, Henry Jr., and Arthur Murphy; and by his special friends, Eugene and Jeannette Benoit. Funeral services were held June 22 at St. Ignatius Catholic Church with the Reverend Henry Mlinganisa celebrating a Mass of Christian Burial. Interment followed at St. Ignatius Cemetery in Lowell. Should friends desire, contributions in Mr. Murphy's memory may be made to Orleans-Essex Visiting Nurses Association and Hospice, 46 Lakemont Road, Newport, Vermont 05855; or to the Lamoille Area Cancer Network, P.O. Box 38, Lake Elmore, Vermont 05657.

, 82, of Holland died peacefully at her home on June 23, 2007, after a long illness. Mrs. McInnis was born December 31, 1924, a daughter of Leon and Leila Carter. She married Raymond "Bert" Hauver in 1941, and they had two children, Albert Hauver and Pauline Hussey. They divorced in 1963. In 1968 she married Kenneth McInnis, who had two children, Kathleen and Michael. She had many interests and talents, such as sewing, gardening, quilting, cross-stitch, needlepoint, and woodworking. As one of the last surviving members of the Holland Congregational Church, she was instrumental in acquiring the property and forming the Holland Historical Society in 1973. She served as its president until she retired in 1998. Whether she was delivering milk in cans to the Hood and Seven Oaks creameries on Coventry Street in Newport or winning the powder puff race at the Border Racing Club at the old fairgrounds in Newport, she was a local leader in women's liberation long before it was in fashion. She worked as a waitress in many local restaurants and clubs, from the International Club in Newport to the Border Motel and Restaurant in Derby. After her retirement from waitressing, she enjoyed her home on the Fish and Game Road in Derby and was an avid snowmobiler for many years. She is survived by her husband of 39 years, Kenneth; by four children: Albert Hauver and his wife, Viola, of Holland, Pauline Hussey and her husband, Dennis, of Newport, Kathleen McInnis of Windsor, and Michael McInnis and his wife, Joy, of Enfield, Connecticut; by four grandchildren: Raymond Hauver, Lance Hauver, Christopher Sanville, and Sean Ritter; by seven great-grandchildren: Larissa, Ronnie, Geoffrey, Brittni, Nathan, Hunter, and Meadow; and by her brother Harold Carter of Derby. She was predeceased by her sisters Fleda Judd and Helen Magill; and by her brother Sydney Carter. In lieu of flowers, friends may make contributions to the Holland Historical Society, in care of Monica Yeamans, 120 School Road, Derby Line, Vermont 05830. In keeping with Mrs. McInnis' wishes, her body has been donated to University of Vermont College of Medicine. Instead of a wake and visiting hours, there will be a memorial service at the Holland Historical Society Building on Sunday, July 1, at 1 p.m.

, 57, of North Concord, formerly of Irasburg, died peacefully at Northeastern Vermont Regional Hospital in St. Johnsbury on June 19, 2007, of complications from a stroke. He was surrounded by his family. Mr. Dion was born in Barton on July 4, 1949, a son of Norman Dion and the late Marion (Lacoss) of Irasburg. His mother predeceased him on March 16, 2005, leaving a great emptiness in his heart. He was a big man with a big heart. If someone needed something, he would give the shirt off his back. He was very special and one of a kind. He touched many hearts on his journey through life. He was very proud of his bowling abilities. He earned a league trophy for bowling in 2005. He always enjoyed fireworks; his family still doesn't know if it was so special to him because it was his birthday or because of the beautiful colors. He leaves six brothers: Ronald and his wife, Martha, of Huntsville, Alabama, Dennis and his wife, Denise, of Ellenton, Florida, Wayne and his wife, Jennie, of Irasburg, Alan and his wife, Kathy, of Albany, David and his wife, Anita, of Irasburg, and Charles of Coventry; two sisters, his twin, Clarice Boutin, and her husband, Roland, of Tucson, Arizona, and Linda Chagnon and her husband, Pete, of Burlington; and 20 nieces and nephews. Funeral services were held June 23 at St. Theresa's Catholic Church in Orleans with the Reverend Daniel Rupp celebrating a Mass of Christian Burial. Interment followed at the Irasburg Cemetery. Should friends desire, contributions in Mr. Dion's memory may be made to the Ron Holland M.D. Community Dialysis Center, in care of Wendy Franklin, 189 Prouty Drive, Newport, Vermont 05855.

, 61, of East Hardwick died unexpectedly on Thursday, June 21, 2007, at the Copley Hospital in Morrisville. Mr. Clark was born January 10, 1946, in New York, a son of the late Daniel and Rose (Tanner) Clark. He attended Waterville public schools. On June 8, 1974, he married Edna M. Conley in Lyndonville. In his earlier years he was a road construction worker. He later was employed at Caspian Arms. He retired in 1991 due to failing health. He enjoyed the time he spent with his grandchildren. Other enjoyments included hunting, fishing, and listening to country music. Survivors include his wife, Edna, of East Hardwick; a son, Robert Clark, of Newport; a daughter, Rossie Clark, of Hardwick; two stepsons, Bernie Dopp of Barton and Brian Dopp of Florida; a stepdaughter, Tina Daley, of Barton; five brothers and sisters: Jim, Bruce, Joe, Janie, and Joyce; 18 grandchildren; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins. He was predeceased by a son, Jerry Clark Jr., in 1998. A memorial service was held June 25 at the Northern Vermont Funeral Home in Hardwick. Burial followed in the family lot in the William Dexter Cemetery in Sheffield.

, 92, beloved husband of Ann, died Sunday, June 24, 2007, at his home in Orleans. Mr. Berrio was born August 12, 1914, in Waltham, Massachusetts, a son of Charles E. and Mary (Malone) Berrio. He was a volunteer member of the U.S. Army during World War II and served in the European Theater. He married Ann Johnson on September 18, 1948. It was while serving as district manager for the Schlitz Brewing Company that he and his wife came to this area. He owned and operated the Orleans Candy Company from 1963 to 1992 when he retired. He was a member of the Orleans Lions Club and was awarded the Melvin Jones Fellow for Humanitarian Service. He was a member of Veterans of Foreign Wars Alfred Pepin Post 798, Orleans American Legion Post 23, Newport Elks Lodge 2155, and the Loyal Order of Moose in Waltham. He was an avid Boston Red Sox and New England Patriots fan. He was an avid golfer and had held memberships at both the Newport and Orleans country clubs. He enjoyed reading, playing cards, and living life to the fullest. He took great pride in his daughters being members of the Vermont Air National Guard. He loved his family, especially his grandchildren, and was proud of their accomplishments. He is survived by his wife, Ann; by his daughters Lisa Perron and her husband, Marvin, of Glover and Lauren Gillespie and her husband, Gary, of Newport; by grandchildren: Logan and MeloneePerron and Dexter and Deveney Degree; by stepgrandchildren: Sarah, Amy, and Andrew Gillespie; by sisters Barbara Mahoney and her husband, Paul, of West Yarmouth, Maine, and Katherine Reblin of Pompano Beach, Florida; and by several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his son Linwood in 1992; by brothers: William, Ernest, John, Joseph, and Francis; and by sisters Mary and Theresa. Friends may call from 5 to 8 p.m. on Thursday, June 28, at the Curtis-Britch Converse-Rushford Funeral Home on Darling Hill Road in Newport. Memorial services will be held at 2 p.m. on Friday, June 29, at St. Theresa's Cathlic Church in Orleans with the Reverend Daniel Rupp officiating. Full military honors will follow the service. Contributions in Mr. Berrio's memory may be made to the Orleans Lions Club, in care of Peter Lanoue, 39 Maple Street, Orleans, Vermont 05860.

, 96, of Newport, well-known businesswoman, died peacefully June 20, 2007, at her great-nephew's home in Troy. Michael John Ghosn and his wife, Chelsea, had been taking care of Mrs. Assaff for the past four months. Mrs. Assaff was born July 16, 1910, in Lebanon, a daughter of Tonious and Stocia (Alfense) Ghosn. In 1931 she married Lewis Assaff, who predeceased her in 1951. She owned and operated the Louisa Assaff Store for over 50 years. She was on the cover of the Enquirer magazine for fending off a robber in her store a few years ago, and she received an award for bravery from the Newport City Police Department. She was admired by many for her work ethic and dedication to her landmark store. She is survived by a nephew, John Michael Ghosn, and his wife, Deborah, of Sydney, Australia; by great-nephews: Michael John Ghosn and wife, Chelsea, of Troy, Michael Essaff of Newport, Paul Essaff and his wife, Linda, of St. Johnsbury, Roland Essaff and his wife, Emily, of Tennessee, and David Essaff and his wife, Ellen, of Reno, Nevada; by nieces Gertrude Essaff of Newport and Gail Eileen Smith and her husband, Jack, of Sydney; by great-nieces: Karen Ghosn of Sydney, Lisa Stephens and her husband, Craig, of Brisbane, Australia, Joanne Anderson and her husband, Jack, of Texas, Diane Essaff of Newport, and Carol Sanville and her husband, John, of Coventry; and by several great-great-nieces and -nephews. She has many other surviving family members who reside in her native country of Lebanon. She was predeceased by a nephew, Louie John Essaff; and by many brothers and sisters. Family and friends may call from 6 to 8 p.m. on Wednesday, June 27, and from 9 to 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, June 28, at the Curtis-Britch Converse-Rushford Funeral Home on Darling Hill Road in Newport. Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. on Thursday, June 28, at St. Mary, Star of the Sea, Catholic Church in Newport with the Reverend Yvon Royer celebrating a Mass of Christian Burial. Interment will follow in St. Mary's Cemetery in Newport. Should family and friends desire, contributions in Mrs. Assaff's memory may be made to the Newport Ambulance Service, P.O. Box 911, Newport, Vermont 05855; or to St. Mary, Star of the Sea, Catholic Church, Clermont Circle, Newport, Vermont 05855.

, 88, of West Charleston died June 22, 2007, in Newport. Mrs. Allen was born March 12, 1919, in Charleston, a daughter of Reginald and Mary Jane (Buck) Holmes. When younger, she loved to crochet, knit, and sew, and she was an excellent cook. On June 8, 1940, she married Sherman D. Allen Sr., who predeceased her on March 25, 2003. She and her husband farmed together for over 45 years. She liked her garden, the rewards from which she canned and preserved for the family to use during the winter months. She made use of all that they grew and raised. She always found a soft spot in her heart for the many pets she had through the years. Most importantly she cherished her family and always looked forward to their visits. She is survived by two sons, Jackson Allen and his wife, Ann, of West Charleston and Sherman Allen and his wife, E. Anne, of West Charleston; by grandchildren: Hazen Allen and his fiancée, Kathy, Julie and Francis Lamoureux of West Charleston, Candace and Martin Midura of West Lebanon, New Hampshire, Daniel Allen and his wife, Jennifer, of Derby, Jeffrey and his fiancée, Jan Cerrigione, of East Plainfield, New Jersey; by great-grandchildren: ElanaMidura of West Lebanon, Haley Allen of Derby, and Anthony Allen of Derby; by a sister, Pauline Darby, and her husband, Roger, of West Charleston; and by numerous nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by three brothers: Rosco, Hazen and Richard. Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. on Wednesday, June 27, at the Curtis-Britch Converse-Rushford Funeral Home on Darling Hill Road in Newport with the Reverend Roger Fletcher officiating. Interment will follow in the West Charleston Cemetery. Friends may call at the funeral home from 1 p.m. until the hour of the funeral. Should friends desire, contributions in Mrs. Allen's memory may be made to the Frontier Animal Society of Vermont, 502 Strawberry Acres Road, Newport, Vermont 05855.

, 87, formerly of Greensboro, who died Sunday, January 7, 2007, at the Haven Health Care Center in St. Albans, will be held Saturday, July 7, at 3 p.m. in the Sanborn Cemetery in East Hardwick.