Wilfred Alton Young Jr.
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, 63, of Brownington died on March 21, 2012, at his home. He was born on March 27, 1948, a son of Wilfred and Eva (St. Pierre) Young. Mr. Young graduated from Orleans High School and was a veteran of the Vietnam War. He worked as a contractor for many years and had his own demolition business. He was extremely knowledgeable in the building and demolition trades and he was the man that others went to for an answer to any problem or situation. He loved hunting, fishing, and the outdoors. He was in the process of remodeling his maternal grandparents' home. He is survived by his children: Patience Francis and her husband, Chad, of Burlington, Desmond Young of California, and Galen Young of Quebec; by his four grandchildren: Cody, Aaron, Nicholas and Dylan Francis all of Burlington; by the following brothers and sisters: Alfred Young and his wife, Anna, of West Charleston, John Young and his wife, Donna, of Barton, Albert Young of Lyndonville, Richard Young and his wife, Karen, of Florida, Robert Young and his wife, Betty, of Orleans, Don Young and his wife, Carmen, of Evansville, Leon Young and his wife, Valerie, of Barton, Marie Viens of Connecticut, Shirley Perry of Brownington, and Sharon Faust and her husband, Larry, of Brownington; and by the mother of his children, Laura Young. He was predeceased by a sister, Dorothy Broe. Funeral services were held in Brownington on March 27.
Lida Rose Anne Darby
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, 96, formerly of Westfield died on March 13, 2012, in Newport, after a long illness. She was born on August 29, 1915, a daughter of William and Ellen (Mossa) Gendreau. On June 15, 1931, she married George who predeceased her on July 11, 1971. She worked for several years as an assistant dietician at the Gaylord Rehab Hospital in Connecticut. She was a very devoted Catholic and became a member of the Sacred Heart Church in Troy when she moved back to Westfield in 1978. She loved gardening and baking, much to the delight of her family. She also loved the family gatherings and just having them stop by to see her for a visit. She is survived by her daughter Ann Racicot and her husband, Andre; by her son Edward and his wife, Gertrude; by 11 grandchildren; by 16 great-grandchildren; by six great-great-grandchildren; and by her sister-in-law Rosa Gendreau. She was predeceased by her daughter Ellen and her husband, John Brault; by her brother Omer Gendreau; and by her sisters: Angelina and Marie Anne Gendreau. Funeral services were held on March 19, in Troy. Spring interment will be at St. Ignatius Cemetery in Lowell. Should friends desire, contributions in her memory may be made to the Bel-Aire Activities Fund, 35 Bel-Aire Drive, Newport, Vermont 05855.
Richard A. "Dick" Dresser Sr.
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, 71, of West Burke died on Monday, March 12, 2012, at home surrounded by his family. Born on January 6, 1941, in East Barnet, he was the son of Elwin and Lottie (Agon) Dresser. He grew up in Gilman. He was employed as a roofer for Rodd Roofing in St. Johnsbury and also had worked at Gilman Paper Mill, East Burke Log Yard, and Roy's Manufacturing in the past. His pastimes included restoring old clocks, fishing, riding on his lawn tractor, being in the outdoors, and working on automobiles. He will be remembered for helping other people in need. He just enjoyed life to its fullest and being with friends and family. He is survived by his children: Don Dresser and his wife, Angel, of West Burke, Erica Dresser of Queensbury, New York, Richard Dresser Jr. of Utah, and June Dresser and Joan Dresser both of Gilman; by his siblings: Elwin Dresser of Gilman, Marg Dresser of St. Johnsbury, and Beverly Walker of Gilman; by his friends: Donna Gray of Newark, Tim Gilman of Newark, Moe Carr of Burke Hollow, Brenda Martin and her family of West Burke, Edward Brown of South Wheelock, and Kazuo Ota Cottrell of Lyndonville; and by many grandchildren, nieces and nephews. Besides his parents, he was predeceased by his siblings: Pauline Dresser, Louise Wood, Howard Dresser, and Margret Williams. Calling hours will be held from 10 a.m. to noon, on Saturday, March 24, at Pearsons Funeral Home, 70 Church Street, in Lyndonville. A memorial gathering will also be held at a later date.
Elizabeth Gilpin
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, 92, of Williamstown, formerly of Newport and Coventry, died on March 16, 2012. She was born in Cogan House, Pennsylvania, on December 27, 1919, the daughter of Elsie Carson Taylor and Jesse Taylor. On October 6, 1946, she married Roger W. Gilpin and they began their married life in Richford. In 1952, they moved to Newport where they spent many years and where they raised their family, later moving to a small home in Coventry. Betty, as she was better known, was a long time member of the First Baptist Church of Newport where she was a member of the TUXIS club, taught Sunday school, sang in the choir and was choir director for several years. She also sang or played the organ at several weddings and funerals. After moving to Coventry, she joined the Coventry Congregational Church where she was organist, a member of the church board and was instrumental for many church suppers. She was well known in the community and had been a member of the Newport Women's Club, and attended many senior citizens group activities and luncheons in Newport and Derby. Mrs. Gilpin was a member of Lakeside Chapter Order of Eastern Star #27 of Newport for over 60 years. She went up through the chairs, being Past Matron on more than one occasion. She was organist for Lakeside Chapter, and held several offices. She began her employment with the Newport Daily Express on a part-time basis, assisting her husband during town report time. She spent hours correlating the pages for town reports in order to get them out in time for Town Meeting. She was later employed full-time as proofreader at The Express where she spent many years before retiring along with Mr. Gilpin. She accompanied her husband to Vermont Printers Association meetings and conventions becoming well known to many in the newspaper circle. She and Mr. Gilpin spent winters in Florida after their retirement, where they made new friends and enjoyed winter golf and learning new crafts. She loved to sing, cook, golf, sew, quilt, collect antiques, read and especially liked spending time with her family. She looked forward to family reunions and getting together with her friends. She is survived by three daughters and their husbands: Marjorie and Delbert Cote of California, Susanna and Edward Hardy of Maine, and Mary and Avon Robertson of Montpelier. She is also survived by her grandchildren: William Cote, Michael Cote and his wife, Gina, and Jennifer Cote Ilusorio, all of California, John Hardy and his wife, Rebecca, of Derby Line, Jessica Hardy of Maine, Karin Barrup and her husband, Nelson, of Derby Line, and Shanna Moody and her husband, Rob, of New Hampshire; by a step-grandchild, Christopher Hardy of Orleans; by her great-grandchildren: Katie and Brooke Cote, Anna, Abigail and Alexander Ilusorio, Thomas and John Curtis Hardy, Breana and Paul Joseph Doherty II, Benjamin, Aaron, Hannah and Caleb Barrup, and Adam and Seth Moody; by her step-great-grandchildren: Ryan and Rebecca Hardy; by a brother, Alan Taylor of Pennsylvania; as well as by several nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her husband Roger, and by a brother, Leon Taylor. Mrs. Gilpin will be sadly missed and lovingly remembered by all who walked by her side through her long and wonderful life. She passed away peacefully with her family by her side. A memorial service will be held at The Gardens in Williamstown. A graveside service and interment at Coventry Cemetery will be at the convenience of the family.
Gerald Edward Glaser
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, 62, of Newport Center died on March 4, 2012, after a long illness. He was born in Detroit, Michigan, on November 25, 1949. He lived in and loved Vermont for 25 years. Mr. Glaser was a great carpenter and worked on many chalets and houses in Alpine Haven, Jay, and around the Northeast Kingdom. He led on roofs and brought up the rear with his fine finish work. He patiently mentored many young apprentices and a few older guys. Before he retired, he ran his own business and was a good boss. He worked unbelievably hard and had the talent to integrate recycled windows, doors, and wood into new structures. His beautiful work will stand strong for years to come. Mr. Glaser absolutely loved skiing. He went downhill for many years but switched to backcountry in later years. His tracks could be found out his back door and all over the Northeast Kingdom hills and mountains. He skied with his friends Celia, Davey, and Jane, and Roger and Sue in Westfield and Balanced Rock. He loved to visit Roger and his horses. He always enjoyed hanging out with his friend Chuck and enjoyed organizing apple pickings and making apple cider with the Hamels. Mr. Glaser was a nurturer and enjoyed taking the whole family out to eat and enjoyed many ethnic cuisines. He used a cooler as a table and would serve Cabot cheese and snacks on skis. During his last couple years, he would invite a small group to his house for pizza and a movie. He loved his family and traveling to see them when they needed him. He cared for his beloved mother in his home during her final years. Mr. Glaser had a special place in his heart for his relatives in Ontonagon, Upper Peninsula, Michigan, where he spent many childhood days on Lake Superior. He never forgot his in-laws in Colorado, including Wilma, Debbie, and his kindhearted sister-in-law Donna Marie Wolf, and her family. Remember Pike's Peak? Mr. Glaser had an extended adoptive family from Massachusetts to California that included Lucky, Celia, Dominic, and Amrita Parry, Naryan and Travis Rollins and their family, Penny Jensen, Bill Kelly, and many more. He loved recording and listening to music. He loved the blues. He always played the Neville Brothers' version of "Will the circle be unbroken, by and by, Lord, by and by? There's a better home awaitin' in the sky, Lord, in the sky. Undertaker, undertaker, won't you please drive real slow. That's my brother, that's my brother, I hate to see him go." He is survived by his son Aaron Joseph Glaser; his brother Michael Glaser; and by his nephew Daniel Hecht. He was predeceased by his son Eric Glaser; his mother Mary W. Glaser; his father George Glaser; and by his sister Patricia Ann Hecht. A graveside service at the Coventry Cemetery will be held in the spring.
Beverly Jane Labounty (Sheltra-Mason)
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, 75, of Newport died on March 16, 2012, in Newport surrounded by her loving family. She was born on January 13, 1937 in Barton, a daughter of Francis and Myrtie (Patrick) Labounty. On May 30, 1953, she married Ronald (Frog) Sheltra who predeceased her, and on February 20, 1970, she married Earl Mason Sr. who also predeceased her. She was a very kindhearted person who loved to give to others. She also enjoyed writing cards, going to bingo and yard sales, and spending time with her grandchildren and friends. She is survived by her six children: Peggy Poulin and her husband, Donald, of Derby, Ronald Sheltra, Joyce Hillis and her companion, Danny Hutchins, all of Brattleboro, Bradley Sheltra and his wife, Penny, of Okeechobee, Florida, Randy Sheltra of Derby, and John Mason and his companion, Patty, of Derby; her stepchildren: Earl Mason Jr. of Florida, Kevin Mason and his wife, Sue, of Virginia, and Linda Mason of Brownington; by her grandchildren: Donald and his wife, Wanda, Jason and his wife, Crystal, LeShea and her husband, Taylor, Chris, Morgan, Dustin, Abbie, Justin, Blake, Derrick, Chad and his wife, Billie Jo, Lynn, Ryan, Derrick, and Tullia; and by 19 great-grandchildren. She is also survived by a sister, Rachel Daigle, and her husband, Ronald, of Granville, New York; and by special friends: Caroline Elliott and Peter Thurston. She was predeceased by the following brothers and sisters: Kenneth, Robert, Richard and Raymond Labounty, Marion Griffin, Pauline Shafey, and Dot Morgan; by her step-grandsons: Shawn and Dakota Mason; and by her special friends: Dennis Shannon and Beverly Miller. Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. on Wednesday, March 21, at the Curtis-Britch-Converse-Rushford Funeral Home, 4670 Darling Hill Road in Newport, with Pastor Paul Essaff officiating. Should friends desire, contributions in her memory may be made to the Pope Memorial Frontier Animal Society, 502 Strawberry Acres, Newport, Vermont 05855.
Ronald L. Pepin
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, 70, of Newport died on March 16, 2012, in Newport. He was born on November 25, 1941, in Newport, a son of Lewis and Bertha "Sally" Pepin. Mr. Pepin was owner of a tool manufacturing company. His hobbies included fishing, hunting, boating, playing and listening to music, playing cribbage, nature in general and spending time with his cat, George. He was secretary for the Newport Alumni Association as well as a substitute teacher for North Country Union High School for several years. He is survived by his beloved companion Diana Beaton of Newport; by his children: Derick Pepin and his wife, Kathleen, of Maine, Darci LaCroix and her husband, Thomas, of Milton, Darin Pepin and his wife, Kristen, of Lake Tahoe, California, and Robin and Tammy Beaton of Irasburg; by his grandchildren: McKenzie and Rylee Pepin, Skyler, Spencer, and Josh LaCroix, and Autumn and Shaylyn Beaton; by his brother Larry Pepin and his wife, Laura, of Springfield; by his nephew Erroll Pepin and his wife, Laura, of New Hampshire; by the mother of his children, Jean Shepard of South Burlington; and by many friends, aunts, uncles, and cousins. Funeral services were held on March 20 in Newport. Should friends desire, contributions in his memory may be made to Alcoholics Anonymous, 55 Seymour Lane, Newport, Vermont 05855; or to the Church of God, 295 Crawford Road, Newport, Vermont 05855.
Dennis Henry Sheltra
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, 63, of Derby died suddenly on March 14, 2012, at his home. He was born on December 9, 1948, in Lowell, a son of Henry and Christine (Bullis) Sheltra. On February 20, 1999, he married Rosemary Batchelder who survives him. Mr. Sheltra graduated from Newport Center High School in the Class of 1966 and he was a veteran of the Vietnam War. Over the years he was a parts pro at several local businesses. He recently retired on January 27, as the commercial parts manager at Advance Auto after six years. He most recently worked part-time at South Bay Auto. He was a member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post #798 of Newport, American Legion Post #21 of Newport, and he was president of the Derby Mobile Home Park Association and constable for the town of Derby. He enjoyed spending Friday nights at jam sessions and his Sunday's watching NASCAR with his wife, Rosemary, and cheering on Tony Stewart and Rusty Wallace. He spent a lot of his time with his grandchildren just hanging out at home with them or going to their sporting events. He also enjoyed hunting and fishing with his sons and going to the shooting range. He is survived by his wife Rosemary Sheltra of Derby; by his children: Mathew Sheltra and his wife, Jessica, of Derby, and Andrew Sheltra and his wife, Ruth, of Derby Line; by his stepchildren: Tina Lucas and her fiance, Shawn Mason, of Albany, Cassandra Dailey and her husband, Harry, of Woodbury, Becky Rice and her fiance, Eric Miller, of Newport, Stanley John Crowe II of Morgan, and Kimberly Bingham and her husband, Jason, of Island Pond; by his sisters: Marilyn Siney and her husband, Phil, of Massachusetts, and Carol Laplume of North Carolina; by 18 grandchildren; by five great-grandchildren; by his sister-in-law Nickolet Simpson and her friend, David LaBelle, of Derby and West Charleston; by Joi Merritt and her husband, Rory, of Springfield; and by many nieces and nephews. Funeral services were held on March 19, in Newport. Spring interment will be at the West Village Cemetery in West Charleston with full military honors. Should friends desire, contributions in his memory may be made to the Victory Junction, 4500 Adams Way, Randleman, North Carolina 27317; or victoryjunction.org/donate or tonystewartfoundation.org.
Dr. James W. Chapman
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, A memorial service and musical tribute to honor Dr. James W. Chapman will be held on Saturday, March 24, at 2 p.m. at the United Church of Newport. His sudden passing on December 24, 2011, was preceded by a long and inspired recovery from a massive stroke. Dr. Chapman's musical experience and background enabled him to make an indelible and notable mark on his students at North Country Union High School (NCUHS) and elsewhere. A university professor and administrator for 14 years, he taught at NCUHS for 17 of what he regarded "the best years." He truly relished his work at NCUHS. Dr. Chapman's passing has been replete with sad responses from his students and the public at large. Some of his favorite music will be sung and played by friends and colleagues Melinda Ens and Ross Osman of Bishop's University in Canada. Other musicians and students will come forward to participate. There will be a reception following. Should friends desire, contributions in his memory may be made to the NCUHS Band Fund for a music scholarship established in his name.
Waneta Mary McRae
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, 94, died on March 15, 2012, in Newport. Funeral arrangements will be announced when completed.
Mary E. Chase
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, 79, died on Tuesday, March 6, 2012, at her home in Craftsbury, in the loving care of her family. Mrs. Chase was born in Burlington on May 30, 1932, the daughter of Carl R. Fortune Sr. and Lois Hadley Fortune Lathe. She was a 1950 graduate of Craftsbury Academy and served her country in the U.S. Army during the Korean Conflict era. While in the Army, she met and married Rodolph L. Chase. While her husband stayed in the Army, she was discharged and began their family but continued her work as a disbursing specialist for the Army as a civilian. Mrs. Chase was a life member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post in Morrisville. Over the years, she and her husband were stationed in many places and also traveled throughout Europe. While her focus was always on family, wherever they lived she also kept busy working; as a secretary and Avon lady in Texas, a librarian in Germany, a secretary in Virginia, a hot lunch cook at Craftsbury Academy, and a bookkeeper in Craftsbury for her husband's and son's refrigeration business, which she continued to do until recently. In 1971, Mr. and Mrs. Chase retired to their home in Craftsbury. She enjoyed playing games, gardening and doing puzzles. She loved her home, being with family, and special get-togethers, including her infamous "garage" parties. She leaves her husband, Rudy; her children: Rudy and his wife, Joanne Chase; twins Robin and her husband, George Stebbins, and Raymond and his wife, Joyce, all of Craftsbury; a brother, Carl "Chip" Fortune and his wife, Elaine, of Hyde Park; four sisters: Jeanne and her husband, Henry "June" Young, of Craftsbury, Barbara and her husband, Noel Lussier, of Hawthorne, Florida, Lois Charron of Craftsbury, and Charlotte and her husband, Clem Royer, of Morrisville; nine grandchildren: Karen and Valerie Mason, Nicholas Chase, Alex and Ben Stebbins, Kathleen, Julianne and Mykaela Chase and Andrea Phelps; four great-grandchildren: Aubriella, Olivia, Averie and Aliya; and 17 nieces and nephews including a special niece, Holly Charron. She was predeceased by her parents; her brother Raymond Fortune; and by a brother-in-law, Dale Charron. A memorial service was held on March 10, in Craftsbury. Spring interment will be in the Craftsbury Village Cemetery. Contributions in her memory may be made to the Lamoille Area Cancer Network, P.O. Box 38, Lake Elmore, Vermont 05657.
Marcia L. Cota
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, 60, of Rutland died unexpectedly on Sunday, March 11, 2012, at her residence. She was born on October 27, 1951, in Providence, Rhode Island, the daughter of Wesley and Hazel (Rivard) Patnode. Mrs. Cota graduated from the Scituate High School in Rhode Island in 1969 and attended the Roger Williams School of Nursing. She married Marvin Cota on July 27, 1974. Mrs. Cota had been employed as a benefits coordinator for the state of Vermont Division of Vocational Rehabilitation in Rutland for 12 years, retiring in 2004 due to her failing health. Prior to that, she worked for six years as a peer advocate counselor for the Vermont Center for Independent Living. She enjoyed her yard in the summer, decorating her home, and especially her puppy dogs, Lexie and Bradley. Mrs. Cota enjoyed helping people and was a fearless advocate for the disabled. Survivors include her husband Marvin Cota of Rutland; a sister, Elaine Furtado, and a half-sister, Dorothy Finnerty, both of Hope, Rhode Island; and several nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her parents, and by a brother, Wesley Patnode Jr. Friends may call from 4 to 6 p.m. on Wednesday, March 14, at the Aldous Funeral Home, 44 North Main Street, in Rutland; and from 4 to 6 p.m. on Thursday, March 15, at the Curtis-Britch-Converse-Rushford Funeral Home, 4670 Darling Hill Road, in Newport. Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. on Friday, March 16, at the United Church of Christ in North Troy, with the Reverend Richard O'Hara officiating. Burial will be at a later date in the North Troy Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the Regional Ambulance Service Inc., 275 Stratton Road, Rutland, Vermont 05701.
Douglas C. Davis Sr.
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, 62, of West Charleston died on March 9, 2012, in Newport. He was born on January 16, 1950, in Concord, New Hampshire, a son of Roger and Elsie (Paul) Davis. Mr. Davis was a self-employed mechanic. He enjoyed working on cars and boats, and he loved the ocean. He is survived by his children: Anthony Davis and his wife, Lisa, of Hopkinton, New Hampshire, Douglas Davis Jr. and his wife, Chris, of Orleans, Debra Davis of Orleans, Jacinda Hann and her husband, David, of West Charleston, and Anthony S. Davis of West Charleston; by 11 grandchildren; and by two great-grandchildren. He is also survived by a brother, Richard Davis of Kentucky; and by several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by a brother, Edmond Davis. Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. on Thursday, March 15, at the Curtis-Britch-Converse-Rushford Funeral Home, 37 Lake Road, in Newport. Should friends desire, contributions in his memory may be made to the American Cancer Society, Vermont Division Inc., 55 Day Lane, Williston, Vermont 05495.
Milton Dale Hammond
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, 87, of Newport Center died on March 5, 2012. He was born on July 2, 1924, in Newport Center, a son of Earl and Marion (Colburn) Hammond. He farmed on his family farm for 33 years until 1957 when he married Phyllis Joy Sleeper from Scarsdale, New York. However, before that date, he had been gradually becoming an independent entrepreneur. In 1947 he bought one of the first balers and then traded it for a second and used it until 1952 or 1953, then sold it to Earl Hammond, his dad. In 1956 he bought a self-loading dump truck with which to draw gravel and in the spring of 1957 he bought a ton-and-a-half Chevy platform truck to haul milk. In 1957 he started to build a garage and in March of 1958 he bought a new John Deere 420 Bulldozer for $3,500. In 1961 he leased a MacLain sawmill in Derby for one year with the option to buy. In 1962 he bought the sawmill and operated it. After four years, Canadian Lumber began to enter this country at too low a price. He sold it. From 1965 to 1967 he worked at the Veneer mill as a forklift operator. From 1967 to April of 1968 he worked for Herb March on the waterfront. From 1968 to April 1970 he worked for C. and O. Oil driving a fuel truck and in 1970 he started to work for Caulkins Cement Company driving a cement truck. In 1972 he logged on his own land during the winter and in the summer of 1973 he worked in Gordon Sleeper's tree nursery. In 1974 he logged on Derby land in the winter and in March of 1974 he worked as a sawyer for Pelletier Lumber in Hardwick. In May of 1976 he became a sawyer in Charles Drown Mill in Coventry and left Pelletier so as not to have to drive so far each day. In 1983 he bought a shingle mill and in 1984 La Branche bought the Drown sawmill and Mr. Hammond continued as a sawyer there. In June of 1986 he retired from the mill but continued to go back to sharpening saw blades and chipper knives until he was over 80 years old. At the time of his retirement, he and his wife, who was now an established artist, began to travel together in earnest. He joined his wife in Iceland for her first painting exhibition in 1990. They drove to Alaska four times, Newfoundland three times, and everywhere in between. He drove his wife to her exhibitions in Texas, Alberta, Canada, North Dakota, and was active at her many shows. However, the things he most loved were baling hay and making maple syrup every spring for over 40 years on the Lake Road, and his friends. He is survived by his wife Phyllis Joy Hammond of Newport Center; by his brothers: David A. Hammond of Cleveland, Ohio, and Eric Hammond and his wife, Barbara, of Orleans; and by several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by a sister, Priscilla Plante. Funeral services were held March 9 in Newport. Spring interment will be held at the Lake Road Cemetery in Newport Center. Should friends desire, contributions in his memory may be made to the Pope Memorial Frontier Animal Shelter, 502 Strawberry Acres, Newport, Vermont 05855.
Ruth Mary Paul Hunt
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, 87, died on February 17, 2012, in Pawleys Island, South Carolina, surrounded by her five children. She was born on November 8, 1924, in Chicago, Illinois, the middle daughter of Leslie and Bertha (Bennett) Paul. When she was eight, her family moved to Washington, D.C., where she graduated from McKinley Technical High School. On June 25, 1943, she married Ralph Hunt of Rutland, who predeceased her in 2008. They celebrated a joyous fiftieth anniversary in 1993, with a renewal of vows ceremony and reunion of thirty-three members of their family. During their marriage, Mr. and Mrs. Hunt lived in Newark, Belleville, Berkeley Heights and Upper Saddle River, all in New Jersey; Grantham, New Hampshire, and Newton, North Carolina. They enjoyed their summer cottage on Lake Bomoseen in Hydeville. They traveled to all 50 states, plus they toured Europe several times, including a trip to the Soviet Union. Their health declined following a severe automobile accident in November of 1993, but they remained upbeat and positive that they could accomplish more than others expected. They continued traveling back to the mountains of Vermont, despite their physical limitations. After Mr. Hunt's death, Mrs. Hunt moved to South Carolina. Mrs. Hunt was devoted to her large family, a busy homemaker working hard with sewing, cooking and mending to help make ends meet. She was deeply proud of everyone's activities. She was an accomplished violinist, who was selected as concertmistress in her high school orchestra. She continued playing her beloved violin throughout her life, performing in churches, nursing homes and other locales, usually in duets with her husband, an accomplished pianist. In addition, she sang and rang hand bells in church choirs. Mrs. Hunt is survived by her five children: Lawrence Hunt and his wife, Dorothy, of Eagle Mountain, Utah, Carol Ruhle and her husband, William, of Pawleys Island, South Carolina, Shirley Harris and her husband, Geoffrey, of Holland, Joyce Wetmore and her husband, Robert, of Lahore, Pakistan, and William Hunt and his wife, Jacqueline, of Fort Collins, Colorado; 19 grandchildren; 25 great-grandchildren; her sister Grace Balee; her brother-in-law Billy of Wichita, Kansas; four nieces and two nephews and their families; and by a number of cousins. She was predeceased by her husband; her sister Margaret Hallberg; and her brother-in-law Frederick Hallberg. A private service will be held later this year.
Douglas R. James
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, 64, of Jay died suddenly on March 5, 2012, at his home. He was born on November 8, 1947, in Vernon, a son of Winthrop and Madeline (Smead) James. He graduated from Brattleboro High School in 1965 and soon joined the Army and served until 1969. He later joined the Vermont State Police from which he retired as a sergeant after almost 30 years of service. During that time, he was a member of the Vermont State Police Bomb Squad. He was also actively involved in the area and was a retired Jay Peak Ski Patrol volunteer, a founding member and current chief of the Jay Volunteer Fire Department, and a mentor to all his firefighters. He also enjoyed working on firework displays. He was an avid hunter and enjoyed his hunting trips and going to deer camp with Kurtis and Bruce, and four-wheeling with RJ and Lee. Mr. Hammond and his life partner, Peggy, liked to go on their annual trips to Las Vegas, Nevada, and to Florida to see his dad at Christmas time. They also enjoyed their Thanksgiving dinner with camp members and their families. He is survived by his life partner Peggy Loux of Jay; his father Winthrop James of Fort Myers, Florida; his brother Dennis and his partner, Michael Pereira, of Los Angeles, California; and by his sister Sandra of Seattle, Washington. Funeral services were held on March 13 in Newport. Should friends desire, contributions in his memory may be made to the Jay Volunteer Fire Department, P.O. Box 116, Jay, Vermont 05859.
J. George Kruegel
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, 90, of Newport Center died on March 11, 2012, in Newport. He was born on January 27, 1922, in Hackensack, New Jersey, the son of H. Albert and Dorothy (Christiansen) Kruegel. On July 17, 1948, he married Dorothea Rathjen, who predeceased him. He was employed by Western Electric and then AT&T as a mechanical switchboard technician. Mr. Kruegel retired in Vermont where he made many friends. He was a proud veteran of World War II and a member of the Tin Can Sailor's Association. He also loved to play and watch baseball and he was an excellent swimmer. He is survived by his children: Kenneth Kruegel and his wife, Patricia, of Spring Lake Heights, New Jersey, John Kruegel of Stone Mount, Georgia, Ellen Justin and her husband, Edward, of Elizabeth City, New Jersey, Joanne Burns and her husband, Bill, of Little Egg Harbor, New Jersey, and William Kruegel and his wife, Chris, of Union Beach, New Jersey; by 14 grandchildren; by four great-grandchildren; by his son-in-law Robert Schaaf of Newport Center; by his sister Joan Kramer of Barnegat, New Jersey; by his brother-in-law Richard Parry of Pennsylvania; and by his sister-in-law Doris Kruegel of Florida. He was predeceased by his daughter Geralyn Schaaf on November 6, 2011. Funeral services were held on March 13, in Newport. Spring interment will be in Lake Road Cemetery in Newport Center, with full military honors. Should friends desire, contributions in his memory may be made to the North Country Hospital Oncology Department, 189 Prouty Drive, Newport, Vermont 05855.
Bonnie Kay Ladd
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, 67, of Glover died suddenly on March 4, 2012, in Newport. She was born on January 23, 1945, in Sunbury, Pennsylvania, beloved daughter of Kathryn Baker. On December 26, 1962, she married Michael Ladd who survives her. Mrs. Ladd was a stay-at-home Mom until her children were all in school and then she became secretary for the Glover School for 25 years. She was the Glover Church trustee for many years and a member of the Glover Church Women's Union. She was a current member of the American Legion Post #76 Auxiliary. She loved her antiques, decorating her home, and she enjoyed her collection of Elvis CDs and tapes. She also enjoyed going to her grandchildren's sports events, dance recitals, and all school activities. She also loved family gatherings at the Ladd camp on Lake Salem and motorcycle riding with Mr. Ladd. She is survived by her husband Michael Ladd of Glover; by her children: Michael Ladd Jr. and his wife, Beth, of St. Albans, Pamela Raymond and her husband, Wayne, of Stowe, and Matthew Ladd and his wife, Sheilah, of Glover; and by her grandchildren: Samuel, Kathryn, Isaiah, Ashley, Owen, Abigail, Jericho, and Cecilia. She is also survived by her brothers-in-law and their spouses: Dave and Maria Ladd, Jon and Brenda Ladd, and William and Lynda Ladd; and by many nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her sister-in-law Jeanne Ladd and by her mother-in-law Shirley Rochefort. Funeral services were held on March 9 in Glover. Spring interment will be in Derby Center Cemetery. Should friends desire, contributions in her memory may be made to the Glover Community Church Steeple Fund, in care of Roland Woodard, Box 198, Glover, Vermont 05839.
Everett H. Miles
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, 72, of Derby died on March 6, 2012, in Lyndonville. He was born on December 30, 1939, in Newport, a son of Harold and Mable (Messier) Miles. He married Annabelle Conley who predeceased him. He entered the United States Army where he served in the reserves from 1959 to 1961. He worked on the C.P. Railroad in his younger years and then spent most of the rest of his life as an auto body repairman working, among others, at Vinton Motors, South Bay Body Shop, Fred Bugbee, Allen Boudreau, Mulkin Chevrolet, and Darel Randall. He enjoyed fishing, NASCAR, raising collie dogs, and going to the fairs around the area. He was former owner of the Shamrock Restaurant. He is survived by his children: Harlan Miles of Barton, and Robert Royer and his wife, Cathy Shay, of St. Johnsbury; by his brother Sid Chamberlain of Lyndonville; and by his sister Joyce Lefaivre of Lyndon. He was predeceased by six brothers and sisters and by a stepson, Charles Royer. Funeral services were held on March 12 in Derby. Should friends desire, contributions in his memory may be made to Caledonia Home Health, P.O. Box 383, St. Johnsbury, Vermont 05819.
Shawn Francis Chaput
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, 32, of North Troy died suddenly on March 2, 2012, at his home. He was born September 21, 1979, in Newport, a son of Francis and Debbie (Keement) Chaput. Mr. Chaput was a great child who grew up into a great man and a very loving and caring person. He had a love for sports and a great love for his dogs, Lincoln and Max. He graduated from North Country Union High School in 1998 where he played football the year they won the state championship. He was also chosen for the Shriner Bowl. While in high school, he worked at Grand Union with Dave Bouffard. When Mr. Bouffard purchased Derby Village Store, Mr. Chaput went to work for him there and worked many years for him. Mr. Chaput leaves behind his parents: Francis and Debbie Chaput; his brother Matthew of Derby; his niece Aleah; his sister Amanda of North Troy; his nephews: Dylan, Cody, and Jordyn; his niece Larkyn; his brother Thomas of Florida; his sister Christina and her partner, Alan Coburn, of Newport; his nephews: Jayden and Tanner; and his niece Amaya. He also leaves behind his grandmothers: Sadie Watters and Ivah Chaput; and many aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends. He was predeceased by his grandfathers: Felix Chaput Sr. and John Keement Sr. Mr. Chaput was truly one of a kind and will be dearly missed. Funeral services were held on March 6, in Newport. Should friends desire, contributions in his memory may be made to the Faith Lighthouse Assembly of God Church, 51 Alderbrook Road, Newport, Vermont 05855-8698.
Florence J. Clifford
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, 86, died on Wednesday, February 29, 2012, in her home in Lowell. She was born January 1, 1926, in Greenwich, Connecticut. Mrs. Clifford was a member of St. Ignatius Catholic Parish in Lowell, and the Vermont Cursillo. She enjoyed a variety of crafts, particularly making Christmas ornaments and miniatures. She loved to watch birds and wildlife and reminisce of her days growing up on her island in Connecticut. She also enjoyed traveling and spending time with her family. She is survived by her daughter Cheryl Clarke of Lowell; by her granddaughters: Erin Dutton and her husband, David, of Irasburg, Tara Clarke of Bennington, and Keri Willey and her husband, Ben, of Lowell; and by several great-grandchildren. She was predeceased by her husband George and by her three sons: James, George and Richard Clifford. Funeral services were held on March 2, in Lowell. Spring interment will be in St. Ignatius Cemetery in Lowell. Should friends desire, contributions in her memory may be made to the Alzheimer's Association, 300 Cornerstone Drive, Suite 128, Williston, Vermont 05495.
S. Eleanor (Willard) Durfee
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died on Tuesday, February 28, 2012, at The Meadows in North Andover, Massachusetts. She was the widow of John A. Durfee, who predeceased her in 1989. Born in Derby on April 16, 1917, she was the daughter of W.A. and Lillian (Swanson) Willard. Mrs. Durfee was a graduate of Derby Academy and Burlington Business College. She was a secretary at USDA Farm Security Administration in Barton and St. Johnsbury and also at Johnson Woolen Mills. For more than 40 years, she resided in North Reading, Massachusetts, and was a member of Union Congregational Church, Delta Pioneers and Navy Grange in West Charleston. She volunteered to play piano for sing-alongs and hymn sings at various community events. She could play any song she heard by ear, so sing-alongs with family were special. Mrs. Durfee loved to sing, dance, play cards, garden, braid rugs, sew and collect vases and dolls. She wrote poems about her life and family. She was an encouragement to everyone she met, with her smile and infectious laugh. Mrs. Durfee is survived by her loving daughters: Diana and her husband, Rick Rush, of Amesbury, Massachusetts, and Carol and her husband, Paul Michaud, of Wyoming, Rhode Island; by her brother Everett and his wife, Dorothy Willard, of Orleans; by her sister Carolyn MacLeay of Sylmar, California; by five grandchildren, three great-grandchildren and several nephews and nieces. She was predeceased by her siblings: May, Charles, Ernest and Frances (Willard) Thompson. On Saturday, March 10, at 2 p.m., a memorial service will be held at Edgewood Retirement Community in North Andover, Massachusetts, where she resided for the past 14 years. A graveside service will precede the memorial that morning at Riverside Cemetery in North Reading.
Alice Gillis
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, 83, of Island Pond died on Wednesday, February 29, 2012, in Newport, surrounded by her loving family. She was born Alice Ruth Carr at the home of George and Clara (Langmaid) Carr on July 23, 1928, in Newark. She was the fourth and last remaining of eight children. She married Archie Joseph Gillis on February 2, 1952. She was a loving mother of six children. Mrs. Gillis enjoyed reading, knitting, quilting and spending time traveling to various parts of the country visiting family with Mr. Gillis. She also traveled to many exciting places with her friends from the Sunrise Manor. She was a member of the American Legion Auxiliary, Community Circle and volunteered for various organizations over the years. She enjoyed working at and retired from the senior meals site in Island Pond. She was adored by all who knew her and will be greatly missed. She is survived by three sons: David Gillis and his wife, Linda, of Yuma, Arizona, Brian Gillis of Island Pond, and Steve Gillis and his wife, Laura, of Sterling, Arkansas; by two daughters: Betty Biggs of Barre, and Donna Chesney and her husband, Roger, of Island Pond; by 14 grandchildren and ten great-grandchildren. She was predeceased by her husband, Archie Gillis, and their son, Scott Allen Gillis; by four brothers: Alton, Earl, Merton and Robert Carr; and by three sisters: Thelma Cutting, Florence Meyette and Elaine Carr. Funeral services were held on March 5, in Island Pond. Burial to be announced. Donations may be made in her name to the American Cancer Society, Vermont Division Inc., 55 Day Lane, Williston, Vermont 05495.
Gary Alexander Hand
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, 61, of West Charleston died suddenly on February 25, 2012, in Newport. He was born October 21, 1950, in Norwich, Connecticut, a son of Arnold and Esther (Hemel) Beaudoin. On November 15, 1984, he married Shirley Baker who survives him. He enlisted in the U.S. Army and was stationed in Korea during the Vietnam War. While in Korea, he was a personal driver for the Post Commander. He also was in the color guard and was a pallbearer for President Lyndon B. Johnson's funeral service. Mr. Hand was a maintenance man for Ethan Allen Manufacturing in Orleans, and for Pine Knoll Nursing Home in Lyndonville. He was also a mechanic for small engine repairs. His hobbies included camping, fishing, and spending time with his family and friends. He loved his Kubota tractor and working on small engines. He is survived by his wife Shirley Hand of West Charleston; by his children: Tammy Hand and Arnold Hand both of Montreal, Quebec; by his stepchildren: Allen Marsh and his companion, Hope, of Island Pond, Mark Marsh Sr. and his wife, Linda, of West Charleston, Todd Marsh and his companion, Patty Sargent, of North Troy, and Christopher Marsh and his wife, Ashley, of Island Pond; by his daughters-in-law: Sherry Marsh of Newport, and Kristi Powers of Orleans; by his 19 grandchildren; and by two great-grandchildren. He had a special nickname for all his grandchildren. He is also survived by his brothers and sisters: Cynthia Ashcroft and her husband, Ralph, of Johnstown, New York, Leroy Hand of Cincinnati, Ohio, Claire Hand of Columbia, Connecticut, Nancy Paradis of Willimantic, Connecticut, Paula McMannus and her husband, Tom, of Columbia, Connecticut, and Kevin Hand of Lebanon, Connecticut; by several nieces and nephews; and by his special friends: Denis and Cathy LaCourse of Wheelock, Tammy and Jim Wilkins, and their family, of Waterford, David Jr. and Rebecca Massey and their family of Brandford, Connecticut, Bob and Sheryl Devaney of West Charleston, Raymond and Connie Lindall of Westmore, and other friends too numerous to mention. Funeral services were held on February 29, in Island Pond. Should friends desire, contributions in his memory may be made to the American Heart Association, Vermont Affiliate, Inc., 434 Hurricane Lane, Williston, Vermont 05495.
Mary H. Joslyn
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, 85, died on Wednesday, February 22, 2012, in The Converse Home in Burlington. She was born in St. Johnsbury on May 11, 1926, the only child of Wilder Joslyn and Ruby (Dutton) Joslyn. She grew up in Orleans, always considering it her hometown, graduating from Orleans High School in 1944. She went on to graduate from Vermont Junior College in 1946, and she received her B.A. in 1948 and M.Ed. in 1949 from the University of Vermont, and in 1963 she received a master of art's degree from Bread Loaf School of English at Middlebury College. She began her teaching career at Windsor High School. She moved on to Hunt Middle School then Burlington High School, retiring in 1989 after 30 years with the Burlington school system. In 1988, students at Burlington High School recognized Ms. Joslyn's energy and enthusiasm for teaching, with a yearbook dedication. They noted that her sense of humor, caring and dedication inspired them to live up to high standards. A highlight of Ms. Joslyn's life was when she attended Middlebury College's writer's conference and met Robert Frost. One of her favorite experiences after retirement was her extended trip to Ireland. Ms. Joslyn had a love of cats, gardening, and literature, especially mysteries. She is survived by Ernest Emerson, as well as by several other cousins. A funeral service will be held at Orleans Federated Church in the spring, the date to be announced. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Converse Home, 272 Church Street, Burlington, Vermont 05401.
Larry Maurice Perry
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, 62, of Granbury, Texas, died Wednesday, February 22, 2012, surrounded by family. He was born August 17, 1949, in Brownington, the son of Irene C. Perry and the late Maurice E. Perry. He was the oldest of seven siblings. He spent many loving years with his longtime partner, Jimmy Holliman, who predeceased him. Mr. Perry was a founding member of the Trinity River Bears and an avid volunteer for the American Association of Retired Persons and Oak Trail Shores Home Owners Association. He is survived by his four children and four grandchildren: James and Lynn Perry and their daughter, Jamie; Edmund and Pat Perry and their son, Alex; Ellen and Jacinto Gaona and their daughter, Kristen, and their son, Jacinto Jr.; and Shaun and Debbie Perry. He is also survived by his mother, Irene C. Perry; by his brothers: Michael, Andre, Roland, and Dennis; and by his sisters: Dianne and Louise. A celebration of his life will be held on Sunday, April 22, at 2 p.m., at Celebration Community Church in Forth Worth, Texas.
Carolyn Barbara Swenson
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, 95, died on Tuesday, February 28, 2012, in Newport. She was born March 25, 1916, to Lee Allen and Alice (Carlson) Allen. She attended Shrewsbury, Massachusetts, schools and continued her education at Wheelock College in Boston, Massachusetts. She operated her own kindergarten until she married Arthur Swenson on June 14, 1941. She was a school crossing guard for several years and also taught in the Head Start Program. Mrs. Swenson had a special love for children. Her hobbies were knitting, crocheting, needlepoint, jig saw puzzles, word finds and reading. She enjoyed time with her family and especially her great-grandchildren. During Mr. and Mrs. Swenson's retirement years, they lived in Eastham, Massachusetts, on Cape Cod, in a home that Mr. Swenson had built. She enjoyed walking the beach and watching the birds. She was a member of a knitting club. After her husband's death, she moved to Kingsbury Village in Derby to be closer to family. She had some "special friends" from the four and one-half years in Vermont. She leaves her two sons: Clifford, and his wife, Joan, of Barton, and Alan of Shrewsbury, Massachusetts; two daughters-in-law: Dorothy of Salisbury, New Hampshire, and Linda of Worcester, Massachusetts; six grandchildren and ten great-grandchildren: David and his wife, Tonya, and their two daughters: Annika and McKinley of South Whitley, Indiana; Paul and his wife, Ellen, and their three sons: Samuel, Hazen, and Noah of Newport Center; MyLinda Murray and her husband, Rob, of Grafton, Massachusetts; Thuri Swenson of Spencer, Massachusetts; Melissa Underhill and her three children: Brittany, Bryan, and Bradyn of Belmont, New Hampshire; and William Jr. and his two children: Michael and Jacoby of Salisbury. She also leaves one nephew, Howard Allen of Shrewsbury; and one niece, Elizabeth Waterhouse of Windsor, Connecticut. Mrs. Swenson was predeceased by her husband of 63 years in 2004; by her son, William Sr., in 1993; by her grandson, Eric, in 1997; and by two brothers: Dr. Roger Allen and Howard Allen. There will be a private celebration of her life with family and close friends. In her memory, contributions may be made to the Irasburg Grace Brethren Church Youth Ministries, P.O. Box 41, Coventry, Vermont 05825; or to Eric T. Swenson Scholarship, Merrimack Valley High School, 106 Village Street, Penacook, New Hampshire 03303; or to The American Heart Association, 434 Hurricane Lane, Williston, Vermont 05495.
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