Laura Adams
....show , a resident of Montpelier for 96 years, passed away at The Arbors in Shelburne at the age of 102 on December 1, 2014.
Laura (aka “Locket”) was born on Sept 27, 1912 in Montpelier, Vt. to John P. Adams and Laura Ropes Adams. Her mother died when she 6 years old and she was subsequently raised by her step mother, Eliza Adams. She was born and grew up in her home at 126 State St in Montpelier, a house now used as offices by the State of Vermont. It was in this house that she rode out the 1927 flood in the attic as waters cascaded through the second floor. Laura was employed by the Union Mutual Insurance Co for over 45 years.
In her younger years, Laura was one of the pioneer skiers on Mt Mansfield. She hiked the Toll Road before there were ski lifts and then continued to enjoy skiing as the Mountain was developed. She skied with other ski pioneers such as Charlie Lord, Abner Coleman, and Art Goodrich all of whom were instrumental in the development of skiing on Mt. Mansfield. Laura passed on her love of skiing to three of her nephews, Bill, Steve, and Jim who continue to enjoy this life long sport. In addition to skiing, Laura was an avid golfer, playing in amateur tournaments throughout the Vermont. She played golf regularly well into her 80’s and was a member of the Montpelier Elks Country Club for over 60 years. In her later years, she served as a Director of the Montpelier Historical Society, as a guide at the Vermont State House and as a volunteer at the Vermont tourist information site on State Street in Montpelier.
Laura was predeceased by her brother John (Jack), sister Katherine, twin brother Charles and nephew John P. Adams III. She is survived by her nephews William Adams of Riverside, Conn., Stephen Adams of Stowe, James Adams of Jericho, and Frederick Adams of Des Moines, Iowa.
The family wishes to thank the staff at The Arbors in Shelburne for the wonderful care they gave Laura in the past few years.
Donations in memory of Laura may be made to the Central Vermont Humane Society, P.O. Box 687, Montpelier, Vt. 05601 or the Vermont Alzheimer’s Association, 300 Corner Stone Drive, Suite 120, Williston, Vt. 05495.
Graveside services will be at the convenience of the family.
Lola Pierotti Aiken
....show died Monday, September 8, 2014 at the Gary Home in Montpelier where she has been a resident for the past several years.
This remarkable and vibrant lady was born more than 102 years ago in Montpelier Vermont.
After graduating as valedictorian from Montpelier High School and working for a local law firm, Lola applied for a state house job at the office of secretary of state and her life’s destiny was forever changed.
She soon became acquainted with many of the state’s political leaders, including the horticulturalist from Putney, George D. Aiken who served as speaker, lieutenant governor, and starting in 1937, governor until his election to the United States Senate in 1940. Newly elected Senator Aiken recognized Lola as a politically astute woman with strong management skills and upon invitation she joined his staff on January 10, 1941. Later in the 1950’s, the Senator appointed her as Chief of his Washington staff.
After the death of the Senator’s first wife, Lola became his social companion and on June 30, 1967 they wed. At the Senator’s and Lola’s direction, she was removed from the Senate payroll and served without pay until the Senator’s retirement in 1975. They came home to Vermont and settled in George Aiken’s home town of Putney. When the “Governor” (as Lola fondly referred to him) died in 1984, she returned to Montpelier and spent the remainder of her life in the city she loved with the people who loved her.
This was not retirement. Lola became active in many community and state commitments. She served on the Boards of the George D. Aiken Lecture Series, Champlain College, Old Rockingham Meeting House Association, Friends of the State House, Vermont Historical Society, Judicial Conduct Board of the Vermont Supreme Court, University of Vermont School of Natural Resources, President Calvin Coolidge Foundation Advisory Board, Honorary Chair for Central Vermont Home, Health and Hospice Capital Campaign, and NECI Scholarships. She also received Dr. of Laws from the University of Vermont, Dr. of Laws from Champlain College, Outstanding Service Medallion from Board of Fellows, Norwich University, and the first Grace Coolidge award.
Throughout her life Lola was always an optimistic, positive, outgoing, and caring person. She never passed a young child without stopping to say hello, always bringing a smile to the youngster’s face. Lola touched many people with her kindness, generosity and love. Her legacy will continue to embody the spirit of Vermont.
Lola is survived by three nephews - Doug Robie and wife Margie Torrey of Underhill VT, Scott Robie and wife Ellen of Naples FL, and Lee Robie and wife Penny of Loveland OH and many grandnephews and grandnieces as well as the stepchildren and family members of the Aiken family. Lola was predeceased by her sisters Rosina Pierotti and Ollie Robie.
Lola’s family recognizes that there are many people in the greater Montpelier area and beyond who went the extra mile helping and socializing with her over the past several years. To mention everyone who comes to mind would certainly miss some. Thus, Lola’s family simply sends our grateful appreciation to everyone who made her life rich and enjoyable and extends our sincere thanks to the staff at The Gary Home and her special companions and friends.
Prior to her death Lola requested that in lieu of flowers or other acknowledgements, she would like to be remembered with a prayer of one’s choice.
Following burial in Putney next to her Governor, a Memorial Mass will be held at St. Augustine’s Church, 16 Barre Street, Montpelier on Monday, Sept. 15th at 11:00 am.
Joseph Alfred (Pepe) Aja
....show , 94, longtime resident of South Barre, VT passed away at St Johnsbury Health & Rehab on Aug. 10. He was born on March 12, 1920 in Montpelier, VT, to Jose and Maria Aja. The family later move to Barre where he spent most of his childhood. He graduated from Spaulding High School in 1938. After high school he attended night school studying monumental drafting and design while working as a draftsman for several granite manufacturers. Joseph joined the US Army in 1942. He served in WWII as a Tech Sargent with the OSS and the 15th Air Force in Europe, North Africa and the Middle East. He was wounded twice while in Greece. In the 1990s, he wrote a book “Call Me Lucky” about his exploits in the war. After his discharge from the Army he attended the Institute of Art, Boston, graduating in 1948. He married Lorraine Pilini on March 11, 1950. In 1951 they moved to South Barre, where they lived for over 60 years.
Joseph worked for many years as a draftsman & etcher for Beck & Beck Granite Company. He also worked for several years as an art, drafting and drivers-ed teacher at Williamstown High School. Joseph was a well known oil painter in the central Vermont area. His paintings were displayed in many shows throughout New England, winning numerous awards. He enjoyed gardening, reading and traveling with Lorraine. They spent many winters in Florida and South Carolina.
He is survived by his son, Douglas Aja and Janis Mattson of East Montpelier; daughter Joan Aja of South Barre; and brother-in law, Dominic Montagna of California. He was predeceased by his wife Lorraine, who died in 2013 and brothers Raymond and Manuel and sisters Trinis and Theresa Goyette.
He will be buried at the Vermont Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Randolph Center. Burial and a remembrance gathering will be held at the family's discretion.
In lieu of flowers, a contribution in his honor can be made to your charity of choice.
Montpelier, VT - Raelene Swasey Aldrich
....show , 89, of Heaton Woods, died on Monday, November 17, 2014 surrounded by her loving family.
She was born on May 2, 1925 in East Ryegate, VT, the daughter of Tracy and Arlene (Jennison) Swasey.
She attended Montpelier Public Schools and graduated from Montpelier High School’s class of 1943. She later attended Antioch College in Ohio.
In 1946, she married Guy Aldrich. Mr. Aldrich predeceased her in 1982.
Although she was primarily a home maker, she did enjoy her work as a children’s librarian while living in Tustin CA.
She was a member of the Old Meeting House Church in East Montpelier Center.
She and her family were especially thankful for the wonderful and compassionate care that she received for the past eleven years while living at Heaton Woods.
Survivors include her daughters; Charlene Aldrich of Milton, VT and Bethany Ratasiewicz of Kennett Square, PA; grandchildren, Heather Leak of Germany, Amanda Ratasiewicz of Pasadena, MD, Lyndsey Ratasiewicz of West Chester, PA, Sarah Steinmetz of Austin, TX, and Patrick Lebo of Vermont.
She was predeceased by her daughter, Rinda Lebo formerly of Tustin, CA; two brothers, Hamilton Swasey and Richard Swasey.
There will be no calling hours. A funeral service will be held 2:00 pm on Sunday, November 23, 2014 at the Old Meeting House Church in East Montpelier Center, VT.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Kellogg Hubbard Library, 135 Main Street, Montpelier, VT 05602.
Sherry Lynn Anthony
....show , 49, of Berlin, VT passed away unexpectedly on June 19, 2014 at her home.
Sherry was loved by all she came in contact with. They will remember her laugh, her red hair and her smile.
She leaves 2 beautiful daughters, Morriah Fisk of Medfield, MA and Savannah Anthony of Berlin.
Sherry worked at the Morse Sugar Shack and Washington County Mental Health and also at Berlin Elementary School.
Survivors include her daughters; Mother, Peg Blanchard; Sister, Karen Anthony; Grandmother, Elaine Anthony, a niece & nephew along with a great niece and great nephew.
Sherry was predeceased by her father, Richard Anthony and step-father, Robert Blanchard and a niece and nephew.
Calling hours will be held on Monday evening, June 23rd from 6-8 pm at Guare & Sons/Barber& Lanier Funeral Home, 30 School Street, Montpelier.
A grave side service will be held at 11:00 am, Tuesday, at Spring Road Cemetery, Tunbridge, VT
Beverly Ann Stevens/Azur
....show , 80, of Montpelier died February 24, 2014 in Heywood Hospital in Gardner, Mass.
She was born in Montpelier on October 3, 1933 the 9th of 10 children to Logan and Artie (Cowan) Crowell. Beverly attended Montpelier Schools and graduated in 1952 from Montpelier High School.
Beverly was married to Neil L. Stevens, Jr. on July 23, 1956. They had two children, Neil and Narra. Mr. Stevens died on July 10, 1958. She later married Philip Azur in 1960 and had one child, Schuyler.
Beverly worked for the State of Vermont for several years She then did day care while her children were young returning to work in the Montpelier Public School System, part-time for Rich’s Department Store, and the Grand Union and Shaw’s of Berlin & Montpelier retiring in 2011.
Survivors include a daughter, Narra Walters of town Concord, NC, two sons, Neil L. Stevens, III., of Montpelier,Schuyler Azur of Montpelier; granddaughter, Krystal Walters and great granddaughter, Makayla Herlding of Concord, NC.
Beverly is also survived by a sister, Ernestine Moreau of Norwich, Ct; sister-in-laws, Nancy Strong and her husband, Fred of East Montpelier; Ann Marie Azur and brother-in-law, Tony Azur both of St. Johnsbury, VT; many nieces and nephews. She was pre-deceased by her parents and eight siblings.
Calling hours will be held on Saturday, March 1, 2014 from 1-3 pm at Guare & Sons Funeral Home.
A graveside service will be held in the spring at Middlesex Center Cemetery in the Stevens Family lot. Following this, her life will be honored and celebrated at a reception.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Central Vermont Council on Aging, 59 North Main Street, Suite 200, Barre, VT 05641-4121
Nancy J. Bailey
....show , 72, of Barre, went home to be with her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ on Sunday, December 7, 2014 following a short illness at the Berlin Health and Rehab Center.
She was born on March 14, 1942, the daughter of Frank A. Sinclair and Anne (Pierson) Sinclair. She attended Plainfield public schools and graduated from Plainfield High School in 1960.
On October 18, 1960, she enlisted in the United States Air Force where she met and married Thomas Joe Bailey in 1962. Following her honorable discharge, they moved to California where they had their son, Jay. After their divorce, she moved back to Vermont and went to work for the Vermont Department of Motor Vehicles and enlisted in the Vermont Army National Guard. After serving for over 20 years in the Guard she retired in April of 2000. In 1996 she retired from the Department of Highway Safety as a Program Coordinator.
Nancy was devoted to her family and especially loved her three grandchildren. She lived every day reading the Bible and praying for her family and others. Nancy was an avid Red Sox fan. She loved to read and write poetry. She had a heart for others and would go out of her way to help them. She was a member of the East Barre Congregational Church and a long time volunteer at the Central Vermont Medical Center.
She is survived by her son, Jay Bailey and his wife Sheila of Barre and their children, Adam, Nathaniel, and Anna; sisters, Carol Sinclair of South Burlington and Martha Belanger and her husband Renfield of New Smyrna Beach, FL; cousin, George Stevens and his wife, Sheila of Milton, and two nephews. She was predeceased by her sister, Ruth Friot.
A celebration of Nancy’s life will be held this Sunday the 14th at 2:00 at the East Barre Congregational Church in East Barre. A committal with military honors will be held in the spring at the Vermont Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Randolph, VT.
Memorial contributions in lieu of flowers may be made to the American Cancer Society, New England Division, 55 Day Lane, Williston, VT 05495 or to the Central Vermont Humane Society, P.O. Box 687, Montpelier, VT 05601-687.
Montpelier, VT - Violet “Vi” M. Barquin
....show , 97, formerly of St. Paul Street and most recently of Mayo Manor in Northfield, died on January 10, 2014 at the Central Vermont Medical Center.
She was born in Graniteville, VT on February 13, 1916, the daughter of Donald and Annie (MacLeod) Murray. After graduating from Williamstown high school, she went on to complete nurse’s training at Heaton Hospital in 1940.
She began her nursing career at Heaton Hospital, then later as a private duty nurse. She retired from the Vermont College infirmary after 12 years of service.
On June 26, 1940, she married Ralph F. Barquin. She met her further husband while at a dance at the former Montpelier Community Hall in Montpelier. Mr. Barquin predeceased her on February 7, 1978.
Mrs. Barquin enjoyed golfing and square dancing. She was a member of the Trinity United Methodist Church and the Barre Country Club where was very proud of her only “hole in one” she made. She loved to travel, antiques, refinishing and upholstering furniture, sewing, knitting and playing bridge.
Survivors include her daughters; Joan “Tara” Veno and husband, Joe of Hamilton, MA; Donna Courtney and husband, Mike of The Dalles, OR; and Deborah Gurule of Berlin; grandchildren, Tara Marie Courtney; Jamie Veno; Jessika Gurule; Jeremy Veno; and Ben Courtney; several nieces and nephews.
She was predeceased by her son Terry Barquin on February 17, 1980; twin children, James Barquin in 1942; and Jackie Barquin in 1943; a grandson Jacob Gurule; siblings, Chris Murray; Ann Stone; Dee Callahan; Betty Lesell; and George Murray.
A graveside service will be held on the spring at the family lot in Hope cemetery in Barre.
Montpelier - Ruth Elizabeth (Sykas) Beard
....show , 66, wife of William S. Beard, mother of Daniel D. Beard E.I. and Rachel (Beard) Keast, died at her home surrounded by her family on Oct. 29, 2014.
She was born Aug. 25, 1948, to Thomas W. Sykas and Ruth E. (Woodard) Sykas. She grew up with her four siblings; Anna Sykas, Elizabeth Sykas-Ringgenberg, Thomas W. Sykas and Timothy D. Sykas.
She devoted her life to the service of others. She cared for her mother, her children, her cherished grandchildren, her siblings & her nieces and nephews. She hosted her beloved exchange student Manuel from Spain. She provided refuge for strangers in need. She loved her dog Fargo, flying, hot air ballooning, riding her motorcycle and playing the cello. Ruth loved singing in the choir with her husband. Together they visited many interesting places around the world. She worked tirelessly to promote car seat safety and the inclusion of those with disabilities.
She graduated from Montpelier High School in 1966. She went on to study nursing and graduated in 1969 from The Memorial Hospital School of Nursing, Worcester MA. She married her husband, Bill, that same year and began her first career as a maternity nurse at the Leonard Morse maternity ward in Natick, MA. She continued her work at Lowell General Hospital, Lowell MA., Copley Hospital in Morrisville, and CVH in Berlin.
She left full time nursing with the arrival of her son Daniel and later her daughter Rachel. However she continued to care for people in new roles such as camp nurse at Camp Wihakowi, Lamaze instruction and as a Special Education Aide for the Montpelier Public School system. She also cut bread for her friends at the Manghi's Bakery.
She continued her education with degrees from St. Joseph's College in N.Wyndam ME and VTC. She earned her Masters Degree in Speech and Language Pathology from UVM in 2001. This allowed her to start her second career in Speech Pathology and Assistive Technology. She began working at the Family Center of Washington County where she was able to provide support and care for the children she loved so much.
She was an active and dynamic member of the Christ Episcopal Church. She sang in the choir and served in ways too many to list.
She is survived by her husband, Bill S. Beard of Montpelier, her children; Dan D. Beard of Montpelier and Rachel B. Keast, her son in law Chris M. Keast and two grandchildren, Chris and Bill all of Plainfield. She is also survived by her siblings Anna, Liz and Tom. She was predeceased by her brother Tim and her parents Tom and Ruth. Ruth will be sorely missed by her siblings and extended family.
Memorial contributions in lieu of flowers can be made to the Christ Church Building Fund, 64 State St Montpelier VT. 05602.
There will be a Memorial service at 11 am, Saturday November 15th at the Christ Episcopal Church, 64 State Street, Montpelier.
Iola Berno
....show , 89, formerly of Prospect Street, Montpelier, died on Sunday, April 20, 2014 at the Berlin Health and Rehab Center.
She was born December 11, 1924, the daughter of Giacomo and Florence (Abbiati) Pacini. She attended St. Michael's High School and later received nursing training from Mary Fletcher School of Nursing in Burlington. Iola worked as a L.P.N. at the former Heaton House in Montpelier.
She was married to Kenneth W. Berno. Mr. Berno predeceased her in 1981.
She was a member of St. Augustine’s Catholic Church. She was a great cook, an avid reader and enjoyed crocheting and collecting dolls and thimbles.
Survivors include her daughters, Kathy Duff of Barre, VT; and Joyce Dailey of East Calais, VT; sister, Teresa Frascoia of Ocean City MD; best friend, Lydia Lewis; six grandchildren; seven great grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.
She was predeceased by her husband; sisters, Emilia Lanier, Albis Taylor, Mary Reno, Josephine Howe; brothers, Gus and Joseph Pacini; and an infant son, Billy.
At Iola’s request, there will be no services. Burial will be in the family lot at St. Augustine Catholic Cemetery.
Montpelier/Underhill Center, VT - Sandra Jean (Somers) Boardman
....show , 78, passed away surrounded by her loving family on July 20, 2014.
Born in Montpelier on July 12, 1936, Sandra was the daughter of Harold and Esther (Bliss) Somers, owners of Somers Hardware, an iconic business in the state’s capitol for many years. Her family ancestry in Vermont is a proud one, dating back more than five generations to Abdiel Bliss, a captain in the Revolutionary Army who was one of the founders of Calais, Vermont in the late 1700’s.
She graduated from Montpelier High School in 1954 and married her high school sweetheart Douglas R. Boardman on February 8, 1955. In true fairy tale fashion, they were born on the same day, same year in different parts of Vermont and found each other at MHS. After graduation, Sandra had the first of many great adventures when she followed her new husband to the tiny Mediterranean island of Malta, where he was serving as a Petty Officer in the U.S. Navy. She would give birth to their first child in the naval hospital there.
In addition to raising five children, Sandra also worked as a customer service supervisor for Sears Roebuck and eventually moved on to a position with IBM as a data operations librarian, where she retired in 1987. She was heavily involved with various PTA and booster clubs, the Girl Scouts and Boy Scouts of America, and was one of the original “soccer moms”. Sandra and husband Doug were long-time season ticket holders for UVM girls’ basketball and drove through many blizzards to support the team.
Sandra was well-known for her knitting skills, her competitive spirit at cribbage and rummy, and enjoyed many sunny days at the family camp in South Hero in a lawn chair on the dock with a book in one hand and a glass of Chardonnay in the other. She loved to travel and made it to 48 of the 50 states and especially enjoyed visits to a daughter in Montana which meant frequent hikes and horseback riding in Yellowstone Park. A son living near New York City insured that Sandra would see many Broadway plays as well as a concert with personal favorite Neil Diamond where she had to be restrained from throwing personal articles of clothing onto the stage. Above all, Sandra was devoted to her family and considered everyone her friend. No one ever left the Boardman household with an empty stomach. Hundreds of her Tupperware containers are no doubt still located in kitchens around the state.
She is survived by her husband of many years Douglas R. Boardman, her children and their partners: Doug Jr. and Jacqueline Gale of Johnson, VT, Jeff and Joe Perry of Ulster Park, NY, Pam and Willie Burkhardt of Emigrant, MT, Randy and Sharon Boardman of Jericho, VT, Stephanie and Pete Richardson of Barre, VT, grandchildren Lucas Richardson, Evelyn and Caleb Boardman, Cole and Maggie Burkhardt, and Sandra’s sister Linda Bongiolatti and her two children Jill Murray and Amy Bongiolatti, long-time friends Bill and Pearl Bugbee, and many other nieces and nephews, as well as many close personal friends and family around the United States.
A public viewing and funeral service will be held on Friday, July 25 at the Guare and Sons/Barber & Lanier Funeral Home, 30 School Street in Montpelier. The viewing will be from 12-1 pm. and the service will begin at 1:00 pm followed by internment at the Green Mount Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the American Heart Association, 312 Hurricane Lane, Williston, VT 05495 or the American Diabetes Foundation
East Calais, VT - Katherine Rose "Kay" Bowen
....show , 90, of Route 14 in East Calais, died on Thursday, January 02, 2014 at the Woodridge Nursing Home.
She was born in Fairlee, VT on May 18, 1923, the daughter of Daniel and Lena (Leonard) Morrison. She attended schools in Waits River.
On February 15, 1941, she married Myron A. Bowen in Marshfield, VT. Mr. Bowen predeceased her in 1992.
Mrs. Bowen was a member of the East Calais Church. She enjoyed crotching and cake decorating and she was exceptional at growing gardens.
Survivors include her daughter; Patricia Lamberton and her husband, Cy of East Calais; son, Donald E. Bowen of Litchfield, ME; son, Gene M. Bowen and his wife, Peggy of East Calais; son, Keith Bowen of South Barre; seven grandchildren, eight great grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews
She was predeceased by her son; Myron John Bowen in 2008 and her siblings; Pearl Austin, Margaret Brown, Edith Maskell, Ruby Fotovich, Gordon Morrison, and Kenneth Morrison.
There will be no calling hours. A graveside service will be held at the Fairview Cemetery in East Calais in the spring.
East Montpelier, VT - Lena P. Brazier
....show , 85, of Brazier Road died on Saturday, December 27, 2014 at the Central Vermont Medical Center in Berlin.
She was born in Duxbury, VT on March 19, 1929, the daughter of Clayton and Bertha (Luce) Phillips.
She attended graded schools in Duxbury and Berlin and graduated from Montpelier High School in 1947.
On August 18, 1957, she married Henry Brazier at the Berlin Congregational Church. Mr. Brazier predeceased her on October 22, 2001.
After high school she worked for several years as a secretary for Union Mutual Insurance Company. She then worked primarily as a home maker, helping her husband run the dairy farm, while raising her children. She also had a successful Tupperware business for many years.
Lena was a member of the Old Meeting House Church, the Community Grange, and the East Montpelier Fire Auxiliary.
Survivors include her son; Thomas Brazier and his wife, Ann and their children, Jenna and Michelle of East Montpelier; daughter, Nancy Brazier of East Montpelier; brother, Robert Dalley of Texas; and many nieces and nephews.
She was predeceased her siblings; Virginia Marro, Betty Burnelle, Evelyn Atwood, Marian Phillips, Eugene Dalley, and Jack Dalley.
Calling hours will be held from 6:00-8:00 on January 11, 2015 at the Guare & Sons Funeral Home.
A funeral service will be held on January 12, 2015 at 11:00 am at the Old Meeting House Church in East Montpelier.
Memorial contributions may be made to the East Montpelier Fire Department, P.O. Box 146, East Montpelier, VT 05651 or the Twin Valley Seniors P.O. Box 152 East Montpelier, Vt. 05651
Joshua Paul Breer
....show , 32, of Cabot, VT died at Fletcher Allen Hospital surrounded by his family on July 19th, 2014 as the result of injuries sustained in an automobile accident.
Josh was born in Berlin, VT on February 4th, 1982 to Bonnie Breer of Cabot. He graduated from Spaulding High School in 2005. He spent his adult life working throughout the Barre-Montpelier area in the auto industry.
Josh had a witty, quirky sense of humor that lit up family gatherings, especially during Super Bowl Sunday when he rooted for the Patriots (his mom rooted for the Giants). He loved all four-legged creatures and formed a deep bond with his little dog Dori, a puggle. Josh enjoyed following current events; he devoured news from any source and could always tell you what was going on both internationally and locally. He loved Cadillacs and was so proud of his latest white Cadillac. Because of his devotion to his family, specifically the way he watched over his brothers, Josh’s mom often called him “Mother Hen.” This commitment to those he loved, along with his bright smile and warm sense of humor, will keep his memory alive.
He was predeceased by his grandfather Richard P. Russell, Jr. of Barre. He is survived by his mother Bonnie Breer of Cabot; his brothers, Jeremiah Breer and his wife Grace and their son Abraham of Cabot, and Jonah Breer of Salisbury; his son Xavier Martinez of Montpelier; his grandmother Pauline Lahar of Fort McCoy, FL, originally of Barre.
Funeral services will be held at 1:00pm on Saturday, July 26 at Macedonia Baptist Church in Plainfield, VT.
In lieu of flowers, please donate to Central Vermont Humane Society, P.O. Box 687, Montpelier, VT 05601 to celebrate Josh’s compassion toward rescue animals.
Douglas J. “PeeWee" Bresette
....show , Doug lost his valiant fight with pancreatic cancer on May 20, 2014 at his home in Woodbury, VT. As she was throughout the eight month fight, his wife Tess was with him at the time of his death.
Doug was born in Montpelier on February 13, 1948, the son of Elwin and Marie (Amedy) Bresette of 13 Vine Street. He was educated at St. Michael’s grade school and Montpelier High School, graduating in 1966. At Montpelier High School he was a 3-sport letterman in football, basketball and baseball. He continued his education at Norwich University and Johnson State College, receiving a BA in Social Science from Johnson in 1971.
Soon after graduation from college, Doug and a friend opened a bar and restaurant in a building that was part of the Lane Shops. Appropriately, the bar was called Blacky Stone’s Industrial Revolution. It was a popular gathering place for people from the Montpelier area.
Later, Doug realized his true passion as a master carpenter, creating custom cabinetry and furniture, which led him to open his own woodworking business called Montpelier Woodworks. His craftsmanship has been enjoyed by many across VT. In addition, Doug’s family was growing with the birth of his 3 children: Spencer, Erin and Connor. After closing this business, he first worked as Interim Director of Recreation then went to work for the State of Vermont, first in the Corrections Department and then the Agency of Transportation. He retired from the State in 2010. On December 30, 2011, Doug married Tess Kennedy at their home overlooking Woodbury Lake.
In retirement, he continued the use of his woodworking/cabinet making skills as he worked for others in renovating homes and cottages. Prior to his illness he and Tess finished the remodeling of their cottage on Woodbury Lake called The Lower Deck.
A dedicated father, Doug was actively involved in the activities of his children and step-children. He appeared to be happiest during the many hours spent coaching & attending their athletic activities and spending time at their family camp on Woodbury Lake.
Throughout his life Doug was involved in sports in the Montpelier area either as a player, coach, and mentor or just through his efforts in providing facilities where others could enjoy athletic events. He touched the lives of many Central Vermont athletes during his time coaching at the Montpelier Recreation Department, Main Street Middle School and Montpelier High School in both boys and girls athletics. He coached Vermont State Champion AAU boys & girls basketball teams and went on to represent Vermont in national tournaments. For many years he enjoyed playing men’s softball and basketball in numerous leagues. He spent countless hours preparing the Montpelier Recreation Field for the coming of the Mountaineers baseball team, building dugouts and refurbishing outbuildings. Doug was instrumental in the operation of the “Grounds Crew” making sure the field was always in top shape for the players and fans to enjoy.
Doug will always be remembered as a loyal and helpful friend. The outpouring of love and assistance that has been shown to Doug and Tess over the past few months is a testament to the respect and admiration that others had for him.
Doug is survived by his wife Tess Kennedy, his three children; Spencer of Stamford, CT; Erin of Montpelier and Connor of Montpelier, and his three stepchildren Sam, Ben and Caroline Kessler.
He also leaves two brothers; Michael and wife Linda of Island Pond, VT and Ronald, wife Michelle and son Kyle of Dallas, TX, and his eldest brother’s sons, Lawson Bresette of Shennandoah, VA and Wesley Bresette of New York, NY. He was predeceased by his parents and his brother Elwin.
A memorial celebration for close friends and family will be held on Saturday, May 31st, from 1-3pm at the Capitol Plaza in Montpelier, VT. In honor of Doug’s passion for his favorite teams: the Boston Red Sox, the NY Football Giants, the Boston Celtics and Duke Blue Devils, please wear your favorite sports team jersey. To help the family in planning, please RSVP your intention to attend to: slwoodworks@comcast.net. In lieu of flowers, donations in Doug’s name can be made to the Lustgarten Foundation for Pancreatic Research or mail a donation to: Lustgarten Foundation, 1111 Stewart Avenue, Bethpage, NY 11714.
Robin Coletti Brooks
....show , 48 passed away Thursday, May 8, 2014. Born July 3, 1965 at Heaton Hospital to Jean Messier Coletti and Leo Coletti joining siblings Jo Ann and Debra, and brother David. She attended Saint Michael’s Catholic School and Montpelier Public Schools, graduating from Montpelier High School in 1985. She attended Westbrook and Champlain Colleges. She fell in love and moved to Maine with her future husband Bill, where they adopted and raised their first “child” Bessie, the dog. They eventually moved to Montpelier to raise a family.
A doting Mother to three sons, William C, Andrew M, and Timothy C Brooks. She loved spending time at the family camp in Mallets Bay and followed her boys athletic and extracurricular activities. Her boys were her life.
She is survived by her husband Bill, sons Billy and Andrew, mother Jean Coletti and husband Dr. Bernard Blaise , sister Debra and husband Rick Campbell, brother David and fiancé Cindy Carlson. Father in-law William H. Brooks, sister-in-law Susan and Nick Drinker, sister-In-Law Debra Mango, niece Natalie Campbell, nephew Nicholas Campbell, nephew Jonathan Drinker, niece Ashley Trumbiano, Amanda Casper, nephew Dominick Mango, Chris Mango, and Dogs Max and Pesky
She was predeceased by her sister Jo Ann Coletti, father Leo Coletti, son Timothy Chadbourn Brooks, and mother-in-law Barbara-Jane Brooks
Calling Hours will be held from 6p.m-8 p.m Monday, May 12, 2014 at Guare & Sons Funeral Home
A Funeral Service will be held at 11 a.m on Tuesday at St. Augustine’s Church, Barre Street, Montpelier.
Memorial Contributions may be made to The Youth Service Bureau and The Jimmy Fund.
The family will hold a reception at the Capitol Plaza Hotel following the service.
Montpelier, VT - Frederick Lawrence Brousseau
....show passed away on February 13, 2014 after a lengthy battle with cancer, with his beloved wife right by his side.
Fred was born on January 15, 1932 in Norton, VT, the son of Adelard and Helen (Lavertue)Brousseau. He grew up in his family home in Norton, and worked at Quimbeys Resort in Averill as a child, telling great stories of his adventures there. He and his family moved to Montpelier when in 1947 and he worked for Vermont Beverage selling soda. His great love was running heavy equipment, and making every job he worked on perfect and level. With his talents he became a superintendent at Caledonia Sand and Gravel, and was responsible for building a section of Interstate 89 from Montpelier to Northfield. He then started Inland Inc., in East Montpelier, which became the Central Vermont Landfill. After he sold the landfill, he went into business with Dwight McCullough and started McBro Sand and Gravel. After several years, he sold his share of McBro and founded his own quarry in Berlin VT known as F.L. Brousseau Stone Products, where his two sons are employed today.
Fred met the love of his life, Pauli, when he was 19 years old, and was married on July 4, 1953. They met at a local event, and it was love at first sight. They recently celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary with their family. Family was very important to Fred and there were lots of celebrations over the years with both sides of the family. He was the best at telling stories about the old times and could always make you smile. There were many fun stories and fun times with family and friends.
Fred and Pauli always loved going to Maine and did so on a regular basis twice a year. They would walk the beach, eat lobster, and always have a banana split for desert. Fred’s real passion was for desert…he would always be looking around the kitchen to see what was there, and believed that dinner was not complete without a little desert afterwards. Raspberry pie was his favorite.
Fred also loved his animals. Through the years they rescued several cats and dogs, plus an incredible horse named Lady. There were always cows in the barnyard, and Fred would lovingly feed them grain and hay daily, calling them his hobby.
Fred is survived by his loving wife of 60 years, Pauline; his son, Peter Brousseau and wife Claudia, son, Eric Brousseau and wife Dody; daughter, Renee Grant and her husband Gordon; sister Sally Bilodeau, and her husband Henry, and beloved grandchildren Tanner, Lauren, Michael and Danny, Fred, Joe and Amy. Fred was predeceased by his brother, Simon Brousseau; sister, Florence Aja; and daughter, Cindy Mason.
A Funeral Mass will be held at 11am on Wednesday February 19th at Saint Augustine’s Church in Montpelier VT with a reception to follow downstairs at the church hall. Visiting hours will be held the evening prior from 6-8pm at Guare & Sons Funeral Home, 30 School Street in Montpelier. In lieu of flowers the family asks that you make a donation in his name to the National Life Cancer Treatment Center, PO Box 547, Barre, VT 05602, or the American Diabetes Association of Vermont, 77 Hegeman Ave, Colchester, VT 05446.
East Montpelier, VT - William Joel Bruzzesi
....show , 33, passed away unexpectedly at his home on Saturday, October 18, 2014 in East Montpelier.
Bill was born July 6, 1981, the son of Richard and Barbara (Bruzzesi) Haverick. He attended St. Michael’s Grade School and graduated from Montpelier High School. He played high school football and loved baseball and basketball.
He was fond of the outdoors and enjoyed fishing and hiking.
William was a compassionate, loving, kindhearted person with an extremely unique sense of humor. He was a hard worker and currently employed for several years with Capital Steel Company.
Survivors include his parent; Barbara Bruzzesi-Haverick and Richard Haverick; sister, Lindsey Bruzzesi and her son, Colby of Colchester, VT; Grandmother, Rita Haverick of Hamburg, NJ; uncle, Robert Haverick and his wife, Divina of Marshfield, VT; aunt, Eileen Fryer and her husband, Jerry of Hamburg, NJ; uncle, Joe DeMartino and his wife, JoAnn of East Montpelier; and his cousin, Jeff DeMartino and his wife, Kerry of Montpelier; as well as many other aunts, uncles and cousins.
Calling hours will be held from 12 noon until 2:45 pm on Saturday, Oct. 25th at Guare & Sons/Barber & Lanier Funeral Home, 30 School Street, Montpelier. A service of remembrance will begin at 3:00 pm at the funeral home.
Family has requested memorial contributions be sent to Buck Lake Camp in Bill’s memory to Green Mountain Conservation Camps, Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department, 1 National Life Drive, Davis 2, Montpelier, VT 05620-3702
Richard W. “Dick” Carey
....show , 88, formerly of East Montpelier passed on June 11, 2014 at his home at Heaton Woods, Montpelier.
He is survived by his son, Conrad R. Carey and his wife, Susan and grandson, Chris Carey and his girlfriend, Ashley all of Calais; daughter, Darlene R. Carey of Montpelier, VT.
He is predeceased by his sisters, Winona (Noni) Shannon, and Chris Trepini of Rutland, and his brothers Leroy and Carlton Carey.
Dick and his wife, Katharine (Morse) were long-time residents of East Montpelier. During those years he was involved in a number of occupations- retail sales, truck driving, landscaping, food service, all of which gave him pleasure and kept him going until the age of 83.
In his spare time he and Katharine enjoyed gardening and short road trips about the countryside, visiting family and friends, along with his passion for dancing.
Calling hours will be from 6:00-8:00 pm, Tuesday, June 17th at Guare & Sons/Barber& Lanier Funeral Home, 30 School Street, Montpelier. A Memorial grave side service with military honors will be held at 1PM, Wednesday, at Plain-Mont Cemetery, East Montpelier.
If you wish to make donations, the family has asked that these be made in Dick’s name to either Heaton Woods, 10 Heaton Street, Montpelier, VT 05602; or to Central Vermont Home Health & Hospice, Inc., 600 Granger Road, Barre, VT 05641 in light of their tremendous support as his journey in this life comes to a close.
Alene Casey
....show , 75, died on Saturday, February 15, 2014 at the Woodridge Nursing Home.
She was born on October 4, 1938, the daughter of Fred and Dannelda (Millette) Sweeney. She attended Montpelier public schools.
On May 4th 1957, she married Thomas Casey.
Alene worked for several health care providers, including Central Vermont Medical Center, Heaton Woods, McFarlin House, and the Central Vermont Home Health and Hospice.
She enjoyed knitting, crocheting, and other crafts. She also enjoyed fishing and shopping.
She is survived by her husband, Thomas Casey of Barre; daughters, Judy Casey Partlow of Plainfield, VT, and Lisa Brown of Texas; one grandson and one great granddaughter.
Calling hours will be private. A graveside service will be held in the spring.
Montpelier, VT - Donna Jane Mehne Cattanach
....show , 92, passed away on January 23, 2014. Born on November 14, 1921 in Duluth, MN to Fred and Grace Mehne. She was predeceased by her parents, her brother Fred, and her husband Bill. Donna lived in Portage, WI until she married Bill in 1943, when they moved to Montpelier, VT.
They spent 62 wonderful years together until Bill passed away in 2005. In 2011, she moved to Florida to be closer to immediate family. She is survived by her two loving daughters, Cindy (John) Raspen, Trinity, FL, and Jane (Terrence) Riley, Bahamas; her two cherished grandchildren, Dan (Beth) Harding, Crofton, MD, and Missy (Dianne Halliday) Harding, Winter Haven, FL, one very special great grand daughter, Morgan Harding, Crofton, MD, one aunt, several nieces and nephews and one former son-law Jay Harding.
Donna was a sports enthusiast from the time she was a little girl, worshipping the Green Bay Packers and the Boston Red Sox. She was a member of Bethany Congregational Church, Montpelier, VT, a lifetime member of The Eastern Star and Delta Gamma Sorority.
She will rejoin Bill in VT and spend eternity with him. A graveside service will be held during May at Berlin Corner Cemetery, Berlin, Vermont.
Ruth Elizabeth Crossett Colombo
....show , known as "Betty" died at the age of 97 at the Woodridge Nursing Home on Friday, September 12, 2014.
Betty was the daughter of Roy Janus Crossett and Ruth (Jones) Crossett . She is predeceased by her brother John Crossett. She married Harry L Colombo M. D., and is survived by her son, Harry Roy Colombo, and wife, Judy Utton Colombo; her daughter, Bertine Colombo McKenna and her husband, Patrick Albert McKenna; her grandsons, Roger and his wife, Jennifer; Jess and his wife, Laura; and Luke Colombo; and great grandchildren Bobby; Morgan; Jack;, Mason and Ford Colombo. Her grandchildren recall popcorn and TV, ice cream cones in the summer and getting away with most anything when she was around. Beyond her immediate family she had loving relationships with her Perry cousins and many devoted friends.
She volunteered many years at Central Vermont Medical Center where she was one of the founders of the patient television program. She was a superb mother, a wonderful grandmother an exquisite cook and devoted friend. She loved to get into a car with family and friends and "chase" the full moon. Her spirit is now free to continue to enjoy one of her favorite pastimes. She played the piano by ear and sang right up until her death. The staff at Woodridge have been compassionate and kind and have told us wonderful stories of her larger than life personality that they will miss. Her life was full and dominated by her loving care of her family. We will all miss that smile, her beauty, her sense of humor and love for her family and friends.
Services will be at Guare & Sons/Barber & Lanier Funeral Home at 2:00 pm on Sunday, Sept. 14th.
In lieu of flowers please pay forward a kind deed, hug your parents, sing an old song in harmony, or gather with family in her name.
Terryville, CT Drewsylla Combs
....show age 20 passed away August 20, 2014 peacefully surrounded by her loving family at Yale-New Haven Hospital in New Haven, CT. Drewsylla was born March 3, 1994 in Houston, TX. She graduated in 2012 from Terryville High school. She marched to the beat of her own drum and was never afraid to lend a helping hand to anyone she met. She enjoyed writing poetry and songs for others to enjoy, most of all she loved children. She always helped and encouraged her nieces Kyla, Kloe, and Summer as well as her nephew Luke. There was never a dull moment when they were together. Drewsylla always said and believed: "Live without excuses. Love without regrets" Drewsylla is survived by her Mother, Beth Berube of Terryville, CT; Father Jimmy Combs of Fort Campbell, KY; Brothers, Brock Combs of Westminster, CO; Cameron Combs and Erik Combs of Terryville, CT; her Sister, Ashley Wilkinson of Savannah, GA; Grandmother, Patricia McManis of Middlesex, VT; and Grandfather, Al Drown of Lyndonville, VT; as well as Lois Combs of Houston, TX. Her family roots are in Vermont with the Patterson family of Middlesex, VT. Calling hours will be held on Friday, August 29, 2014 from 7-9 PM at Guare & Sons/Barber & Lanier Funeral Home, 30 School Street, Montpelier. A Memorial service will be held at 1:00 pm on Saturday at the funeral home and burial will follow the service at Green Mount Cemetery.
Change in time of Funeral Mass for Lucy: the Funeral Mass is now set for 12 Noon on Saturday,July 26th.
Lucy Martha Corker
....show died on July 16 in Florence, MA at the home of her niece Marylynn Salmon, with whom she had lived for several years. The cause was a stroke.
Lucy was born on May 31, 1917, the eldest of six children of Bernice Whitcomb Corker and Mahlon H. Corker of Fullerton Avenue (now Monsignor Crosby Avenue) in Montpelier. She is survived by her brother Philip Corker of Clinton, MA, many nieces and nephews, and their children and grandchildren. Her brothers Mahlon and Lyman Corker, and sisters Ruth Corker and Mary Salmon predeceased her.
Lucy graduated from St. Michael’s High School in 1935 and Goddard Junior College in Barre in 1937. Trained as a primary school teacher, she was unable to find a position because of the poor economic times. Lucy began to work as a nanny and soon found that she loved taking care of very young children. She lived over the next decade with several families in San Francisco, Washington, D.C., New Haven, and Concord, MA. Lucy then returned to Montpelier where she worked as a clerk in the investment division at the National Life Insurance Company until her retirement.
Her appetite for travel had been whetted by her time on the west coast and in the upper south, and so Lucy became an avid explorer of the United States, Canada, and Mexico. She tried to take a trip every year, but Vermont held first place in her heart. She was a great hiker who walked the hills and valleys of the Barre-Montpelier area from early spring until the winter weather forced her inside to spend her time on reading (especially murder mysteries) and crafts. Lucy was a skilled knitter whose hats and mittens always sold quickly at church fairs, and each Easter her handmade sugar eggs containing tiny scenes depicting the joys of spring brought pleasure to the young and young at heart. She was a communicant of St. Augustine church, where she volunteered in a variety of capacities, perhaps most memorably as the coordinator of church coffees following Sunday mass. She ran a tight kitchen and her co-workers appreciated her organization and energy.
Lucy was known throughout her life as a generous woman who was adept at making and keeping friends. A devoted correspondent by letter and email, this year she made over fifty Easter cards to send to family and friends, all containing a personal message or letter. She will be sorely missed by the many people who loved and admired her kind heart, loyalty, and practical good sense.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Augustine Catholic Church, 16 Barre Street, Montpelier, Saturday July 26th at 12:00 Noon, with burial in Berlin Corner Cemetery immediately following the Mass. Donations in Lucy’s name may be made to a charity of your choice.
Charles E Coughlin
....show passed away peacefully in his home on the morning of March 25, 2014 at the age of 59.
Charlie graduated valedictorian from Spaulding High School and went on to receive two degrees from Castleton State College. A connoisseur of coffee and a love for old fashion donuts is one trait that many will remember about Charlie. Charlie had a way about him that made you smile and laugh. His boyish smile, great enthusiasm and happiness for getting out in the community was always met with “Greetings Greetings” or a “Yea Yea” and a wave to everyone he met.
He was loved by many and is survived by his home care provider and friend Roslyn Haldane and her two children Ashley and Richard Haldane. It is impossible to not have been touched by Charlie in some way; with his passion for life and enthusiasm for learning, Charlie was always able to have a positive outlook in any situation. He will be missed by many including his friends and staff at Washington County Mental Health, caregivers and nurses from Tender Loving Homecare, LLC as well as the family he stole the hearts of, the Haldanes'.
A memorial service will be announced at a later time.
Carolyn A. Croteau
....show , 45, of Paine Turnpike North, Berlin, died on April 15, 2014 at Fletcher Allen Health Care.
She was born in Montpelier, June 22, 1968 the daughter of Earl and Loretta (McQueen) Gerrish. She attended Union 32 High School.
She is survived by her husband Colt Croteau of Berlin; father, Earl Gerrish of Montpelier; mother and father-in-law, Laura and Terral Croteau of Waterbury Center; brother in law, Joseph Croteau and his fiancé, Melissa Schwartz of Champlain, NY; nephew, Richard Croteau of Epping, NH; niece, Olivia Croteau of Champlain, NY; several aunts, uncles, and cousins.
She is predeceased by her mother, Loretta Gerrish; brother, Earl Gerrish, Jr. and two infant sisters.
Carolyn was a very spiritual person and was a member of the Montpelier Church of Christ. She volunteered her time at the Brown Public Library in Northfield, VT and was an avid reader. She loved all animals including her fish, cats, and dogs, that she affectionately called her “fur babes”. She enjoyed spending time with her family, talking with friends around bon fires, and also taking care of her gardens.
A Memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m., Friday, April 25th, at Church of Christ, Northfield Street, (Capital City Grange Hall), Berlin, VT. A fellowship meal will follow the service.
The family would like to thank all the health care workers who provided loving and compassionate care to Carolyn over the past three years.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Central Vermont Home Health and Hospice, 600 Granger Road, Berlin, VT 05641
Ruth A. Damon
....show , 92, formerly of Court Street, Montpelier died Sunday, March 2, 2014 at Heaton Woods where she lived for the past few years.
She was born in Sudbury, VT on September 9, 1921 the daughter of William and Esther (Cook) Damon.
Ruth was a graduate of Brandon High School, Castleton Normal School and the University of Vermont. She taught in elementary schools in Norwich, Leicester, Windsor, and Montpelier.
Ruth is survived by a niece, Cynthia Crooks and her husband, Ronald and their daughter, Rachel of Katy Texas; nephew, William Damon and his wife, Cynthia of Moraga, CA; nephew, Lloyd Damon and his wife, Teresa and their daughter, Lauren of Burlingame, CA.
At Ruth’s request, there will be no calling hours or funeral service.
Burial will be in Prospect Cemetery, East Middlebury. Vermont.
Montpelier, VT - Cecile K. Davis
....show , 89, formerly of Liberty Street and Pioneer Apartments, died on Thursday, September 18, 2014 at the Woodridge Nursing Home.
She was born in Hardwick, VT on April 22, 1925 the daughter of Harold and Laura (Keegan) Davis. She attended Montpelier Schools and graduated from Montpelier High School in 1942 and attended Champlain College in Burlington.
She was a longtime member at St. Augustine’s Catholic Church, Catholic Daughters of the Americas (court St. Augustine #976) and an associate member of the Legion of Mary.
Calling hours will be held on Tuesday, September 23rd from 9:00-10:30 am at Guare & Sons/Barber & Lanier Funeral Home.
A Funeral Mass will follow calling hours beginning at 11:00 am at St. Augustine Catholic Church. Burial will be in the family lot at Green Mount Cemetery.
Memorial contributions may be made to St. Augustine Catholic Church, 15 Barre Street, Montpelier, VT 05602 in the form of Masses in Cecile’s memory.
Montpelier, VT - James E. Davis
....show , 76, of Barre Street passed away peacefully on Tuesday, November 18, 2014 at his home surrounded by his family.
He was born in Lyndonville, VT on November 16, 1938, the son of Percy and Violet (Smith) Davis. He attended schools in Danville, Hardwick, and East Montpelier and graduated from Montpelier high school in 1957.
He enlisted into the Vermont Army National Guard in 1956 and served until his honorable discharge on May 22, 1967.
Jim worked for a number of building and contracting companies in the area for most of his career. At the time of his death he was employed by MFB Construction.
Jim was a member of Outboard Boating Club of America. Jim enjoyed hunting, fishing on his boat on Lake Ontario, snowmobiling, traveling with his good friend Walter Baldwin to many car shows to show off his 1957 Plymouth Bel Air and 1987 Monte Carlo SS. He rarely missed any televised NASCAR race and would annually attend Oswego Speedway to watch the supermodifieds. Jim especially enjoyed spending time with his siblings and cherished the time with his grandchildren.
Survivors include his children; Shawn Davis of Callaway, MD. Sharon Davis and her husband Michael Burke of Bristol, VT, and John Audy, Jr. and wife Kathleen of East Montpelier; sisters, Alice Nelson of Lyndonville, VT and Charlotte Tucker of Burlington, VT; brothers, Clayton "Butch" Davis of Montpelier, Lawrence Davis of Portland, OR and Raymond "Lee" Davis of Barre Town, VT; five grandchildren Ryan Davis, Ciara Burke, Madison, Collin and Ethan Audy and many nieces and nephews. Jim was predeceased by his father Percy and mother Violet Davis and sister Elizabeth Hayward.
There will be no calling hours. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, November 22 at 2:00 p.m. at the Guare & Sons/Barber & Lanier Funeral Home.
Memorial contributions may be made to Central Vermont Home Health and Hospice, Inc., 600 Granger Road, Barre, Vermont, 05641.
David Leo DeForge
....show , 59, born to Clyde and Dolores (Crozzoli) DeForge in Montpelier, VT passed away on March 31, 2014 in Missoula, Montana, after a courageous battle with cancer. He will be deeply missed by his family and many friends.
He is survived by his wife Charlene Phlypo and her immediate family; his Mother, Dolores DeForge; Sister, Barbara (DeForge) DeWitt and husband, Gary; brother, Steven (Bear) DeForge; and his Aunt & Uncle, Barbara (Crozzoli) Conner and Theodore Conner and their families.
He was predeceased in death by his Father, Clyde Leo DeForge and Father-in-law, Charlie Phlypo.
A gathering will be held to celebrate Dave’s life in the coming summer. Burial will be in the family plot in Green Mount Cemetery in Montpelier.
East Montpelier, VT - James Peter Eniti
....show , 59, of Old Farm Road, died in the early hours of Friday, November 7, 2014 at his home. In the wake of his passing, James’ dear friend Sam Prather said: “He loved the night, and always paused to look at the moon if she could be seen. James passed on the night of the full moon.”
He was born in Burlington, VT on December 28, 1954, the son of Ernest and Barbara (Bump) Eniti. He graduated from Union 32 High School in 1973 and later attended Vermont Technical College. James earned a bachelor’s degree from the University of New York while serving in the Navy.
He enlisted in the United States Navy in 1974 and served until his honorable discharge in 1981.
James worked for the Hewlett Packard Company as a repair technician. He later moved to the research and development department and finally retired as a software engineer after 24 years with the company in 2005. He was an engineer’s engineer. He intuitively understood machines, and loved them.
James was an avid gaming enthusiast, actively involved in online role-playing communities where he cultivated intimate and lifelong friendships.
He was passionate about green energy and proudly served on the Energy Committee in East Montpelier. He employed renewable energy technologies to power his home and enjoyed driving his all-electric sun-charged E-Box around town.
James is survived by his mother, Barbara Eniti of East Montpelier; sister, Sari Wolf of East Montpelier; nephews, Casey Wolf and his partner, Elizabeth Brood of Mt. Laurel, NJ and Indigo Wolf of Montpelier.
He was predeceased by his brother, William Eniti and an Aunt, Harriet Bump.
There will be no calling hours. Friends wishing to celebrate his life may do so by enjoying a rootbeer float or “dessert before dinner” in his honor. A memorial will be held in James's honor at his home of 160 Old Farm Road, East Montpelier on Friday, November 28 at 2:00 pm. Those wishing to say their goodbyes are encouraged to attend. A potluck reception will follow.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Kellogg Hubbard Library or the Vermont Symphony Orchestra.
Calais, VT - Beatrice “Bea” Irene Fitch
....show , 97, of Maple Corner, Calais, passed away peacefully on November 29, 2014 in Berlin.
She was born April 24, 1917 in Albany, Vermont to Alanson Martin and Marjorie George. On October 24, 1936, she married Floyde Clyde Fitch Sr. in Riverton. Together they lived their lives in Maple Corners, VT until his death in 2005.
Bea was well loved by all who knew her and was always one to have a clever prank up her sleeve. She loved spending time with family; it was not unusual to have a house full any day. She also enjoyed snowmobiling and singing. Bea was a member of the Adamant Methodist Church, The Mission Ladies, and was a lifetime member of the Mountain Tamers Snowmobile Club.
Bea is survived by: “her four boys” Floyde “Bub” Fitch of Douglasville, GA., David Erwin Fitch of Woodbury, VT., Cedric Dennis Fitch of Venice, FL., and Randall Martin Fitch of Calais, VT., five grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her sister Phyllis Martin Mann of Vernon, CT.
Bea was predeceased by her husband; brothers, Phillip Martin and Preston “Stubby” Martin; and sisters, Fern Robertson and Karlene Stone.
A committal service will be held in the spring at Robinson Cemetery in Calais.
The family of Beatrice “BB” Fitch, want to thank the staff of Berlin Health and Rehab for their 10 years of wonderful care.
Martin J. “Poody” Fitzgerald, Jr
....show , 80, died on Saturday, February 8, 2014 at the Central Vermont Medical Center surrounded by his family.
He was born on February 14, 1933 in Barre, VT, the son of Martin J. Fitzgerald, Sr. and Agnes (Hamel) Fitzgerald.
He attended St. Michael’s grade school and High School graduating in the class of 1951.
He enlisted into the United States Army in 1952 and served during the Korean Conflict as a Hospital Orderly in Germany until 1954. He was honorably discharged from the United States Army Reserve in 1962.
On July 1, 1961, he married Simone Marie Louise Tanguay at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Newport, VT.
After returning from the Army, Martin was hired by his uncle Stephen Mureta, initially as a stone cutter and then as a sandblast man at Montpelier Granite Works, INC. In 1968, he was given the opportunity to lease and operate the sandblast department. He started Capital Custom Sandblast Company (CCSB) with his partner and friend Olisse “Moose” Melada, which he ran until 1998. During this time his three sons all worked with him and the entire Mureta family, providing quality monuments throughout Vermont and the United States. His company, CCSB, continues to provide memorial setting, lettering and washing to the Vermont community.
Martin loved his wife Simone until the very end and was not shy about letting anyone know how much he cared for her and valued their relationship. He was proud of his entire family and their accomplishments. He valued his faith in God, his immediate and extended family, education and all of his friends.
He was a member of the VFW Post 792, the Canadian Club, and the Montpelier Elks Club. He also enjoyed camping, motorcycling, hunting and fishing with his family. Martin was an avid golfer, he took pride in his two “hole in ones”, and cherished his time playing with family and his Tuesday Golf group.
Survivors include his wife Simone Fitzgerald of East Montpelier; daughters, Louise F. Lynch and her husband Christopher of Colchester, VT, Christina J. Fitzgerald of Essex Junction, VT, Laurie A. Daniels and her husband Matthew of Chatham, MA; sons, Matthew J. Fitzgerald and his wife Kathleen of Williston, VT, Thomas J. Fitzgerald of Sicklerville, NJ, Mark A. Fitzgerald and his wife Wendy of S. Burlington, VT; grandchildren, Meghan, Molly, Michael, Cameron, Kevin, Elise, Kiernan, William “Liam”, Aly, Ashton, and Alex; great grandchildren, Maddox and Mekynzi; step-grandchildren, Patrick, Connor and Brianna.
He was predeceased by a grandson, Gunnar Michael Schumacher; his sister and brother in law, Judith and Walter Hatch.
Calling hours will be held from 6:00-9:00 pm on Friday, February 14, 2014 at the Guare & Sons Funeral Home, 30 School Street, Montpelier, VT. A funeral mass will be held at 12:00 noon on Saturday, February 15, 2014 at St. Augustine’s Catholic Church. Committal prayers and internment are currently scheduled at 1:00 PM on May 9, 2014 at Berlin Corners Cemetery.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Vermont Chapter of NAMI, 162 South Main Street, Waterbury, VT
Carol FitzPatrick
....show , born Helen Carol Shaffer, died peacefully September 11, 2014, at Woodridge in Montpelier, Vermont, after a long illness. She was born in Abington, Pennsylvania on November 18, 1942, the daughter of Howard and Ethel Shaffer. Carol attended Abington High School and Katharine Gibbs in Boston. She met her future husband, Montpelier native Douglas R. FitzPatrick at multi-denominational youth retreat. Carol often recalled the rainy mist of their first walk together. They were married on June 15, 1963 after his graduation from Yale University. They traveled the United States and settled in San Francisco where Doug worked on the design of the Bay Area Rapid Transit. While in California, Carol had two daughters, Sandy and Heather. Carol and Doug returned to the east and lived in Syracuse, NY, for five years. They then returned to Vermont and built a house on Bartlett Hill in Berlin; Carol spent many hours there in her extensive gardens. Except for travel (including a year in Indonesia from 1975-1976) they both resided in this house until Doug’s death in 1997.
Carol earned a bachelor’s degree at Johnson State College in sociology. For many years, she worked as a lister for the Town of Berlin and also volunteered with the Berlin Historical Society and the clerk’s office to count ballots. Carol served as a guardian ad litem for Washington County and also volunteered in local literacy programs.
Carol moved to Westview Meadows in 2007 and grew to love her many friends. She participated in many activities such as painting, book club, and music. Famous for her zest and spontaneity, she loved adventures with all friends but particularly Lillian Liebertoff.
Carol is survived by daughter Sandra FitzPatrick Vitzthum of Montpelier and her three sons Alexander, Carl and August Vitzthum; and daughter Heather FitzPatrick Pierce of Berlin, her husband Ed Pierce, and their daughter Lydia Pierce.
Carol will be remembered for her good humor, generosity, and friendliness. She was not a complainer, but rather worked hard to overcome illness. Carol centered her life around her immediate family, her close friends, and her adopted Town of Berlin. She will be sorely missed by all.
The FitzPatrick family would like to thank the staff of the CVH dialysis unit and also the staff of Woodridge for their loving and watchful care of Carol.
Calling hours will be held at the Guare & Sons/Barber & Lanier Funeral Home (30 School Street, Montpelier) Sunday, September 14th, from 6 to 8 pm. A memorial service will be held at the Bethany United Church of Christ (115 Main Street, Montpelier) Tuesday, September 16th, at 3 pm, with an informal reception following in the church parlor.
Montpelier - Elizabeth Campbell Rendall Fitzpatrick
....show , born August 3, 1929 in New Stevenston, Scotland to Euphemia Campbell and William Rendall, passed away on January 11, 2014.
Her family immigrated to the United States and settled in New York City when she was a child. Betty married her beloved husband, Howard P. Fitzpatrick, in 1954. They lived in Dumont, NJ, where they raised their five children.
In 1971, upon Howard’s retirement from the NYPD, they moved their family to Cabot, VT. She was employed by Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Vermont, and retired after fifteen years. During their retirement, Howard and Betty enjoyed traveling to Scotland and spent numerous winters in St. Augustine, FL. In 2002 they relocated from Cabot to Montpelier. Betty was loved for her sharp wit, sense of humor, strong spirit and dedication to her family, which included twelve grandchildren.
She was predeceased by her beloved daughter Elizabeth (Betsy) Normand Hiser in 2000. She is survived by her loving husband, her daughter, Nancy Chase of Montpelier, son Howard W. Fitzpatrick and wife Soryun of Seattle, WA, son William Fitzpatrick and wife Pam Knapp of Plainfield, daughter Amy Smith and husband Tim of Warwick, NY, and her grandchildren Jessica Normand, Will and Peter Hiser, Ian, Andrew and Alison Chase, Elizabeth (Chase) Bailey, Owen and Mina Fitzpatrick, Jessa Fitzpatrick, Evan and Liam Smith.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Central Vermont Humane Society, PO Box 687, Montpelier, VT 05601.
She will be remembered by all who loved her, including her little dog, Annie Laurie.
No calling hours or services will be held.
Montpelier, VT Roy H. Flanders
....show , 84, of Four Seasons Community Care Home in Northfield died peacefully on Sunday, January 5, 2014.
He was born in Fairfax, VT on May 26, 1929, the son of Gerald and Helen (Archambault) Flanders. He attended Bellows Free Academy of Fairfax until the necessity of his family’s dairy farm required him to begin work at an early age.
Roy worked a number of jobs including dairy farming and logging. He primarily worked as a sheet metal mechanic, first for the Norman C. White Company in Newington, CT and later for many years at the Middlesex Fire Equipment Company where he was Shop Foreman before a disability forced his retirement in 1978.
He was a veteran of the Korean War, serving in the United States Army, Tank corps from 1951 until his honorable discharge in 1953 with the rank of Staff Sargent.
On July 2, 1955, he married Rebecca Ann Swenston in Hartford, CT. They later divorced.
Roy was a participant of Project Independence in Barre, VT, where he was able to make many lasting friendships over the years.
Survivors include his sons; Roy F. Flanders and his wife Rebecca of Conober, NC, Paul J. Flanders and his companion Corylinn Jenne of North Montpelier, VT, Robert L. Flanders of Salisbury, NC, Patrick R. Flanders and his wife Roni of Jamestown, NC and Lee A. Flanders of Plainfield, VT; Rebecca Ann (Swenston) Flanders, his former spouse of Salisbury, NC; sisters, Alberta Buroker of Ft. Arthur, TX and Lenna Flanders of Rutland, VT; 12 grandchildren and 7 great grandchildren; several nieces, nephews and cousins.
He was predeceased by his siblings; Ernest Flanders, Leola Flanders, and Lena Flanders, and a grandson Joseph Griffith.
The family would like to extend their sincere gratitude to the aids, nurses and residence of the Four Seasons Community Care Home, whom Roy considered his extended family.
Calling hours will be held on from 6-8 pm, Friday evening, Jan. 10th at Guare & Sons Funeral Home, 30 School Street, Montpelier.
A Funeral service will be held at 11:00 am, Saturday, at the funeral home.
Memorial contributions may be made to Project Independence, 81 N. Main Street, Barre, VT 05641
Oliver Steve Forrand
....show , 89, of Main Street, died on Sunday, November 30th at the Woodridge Nursing Home with his family by his side. He had been a resident of Woodridge Nursing Home for the last five years.
He was born in Cabot, VT on July 3, 1925, the son of Stephen and Libbie (Gushea) Forrand.
Oliver married Madeline J. Relation on November 21, 1969 in Northfield, Vermont. They enjoyed 40 years of marriage until her death in August of 2010.
In 1941, at the age of 16, Oliver joined the United States Navy, serving 4 years during World War II and received an honorable discharge on January 17, 1946.
After his military service, he worked for The Northfield Woolen Mills as a shop foreman for the weaving department until the mill closed in 1974. He then worked for Malden Mills Inc. for several years until he retired in December of 1987.
Upon retirement he took up baking, taking great pride in making weekly treats for his granddaughter, Kristin and her friends.
He enjoyed reading, cribbage, playing golf and fishing. He was also a member of the Northfield and Montpelier country clubs for a number of years.
His other sports interest included baseball and football with an eye on the college level teams.
He was a member of St. Augustine’s Parish in Montpelier, VT.
Oliver is survived by his two daughters, Mary Joanne Dukette of Montpelier, VT; and Nancy Tassey and husband Scott of Calais, VT; granddaughter, Kristin Darcy and great granddaughters, Ella and Lily Darcy of Montpelier, VT; two grandsons, Mathew Tassey of Calais, VT; and Scott D. Tassey and fiancée, Desirae Baker and great granddaughter, McKenzie Tassey of East Montpelier, VT.
A Graveside service with Military Funeral Honors will be held in the spring at Calvary Cemetery in Northfield, VT.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Woodridge Nursing Home, Patient Activities Fund, P.O. Box 550, Barre, VT 05641.
Montpelier, VT - Katharine P. Frantz
....show , 89, formerly of Pennsylvania, but most recently of Forest Drive in Montpelier, died on Tuesday, July 8, 2014 at the Woodridge Nursing Home in Berlin.
She was born on September 18, 1942 in Bristol, PA, the daughter of Walter and Ruth (Roberts) Pitzonka.
After graduating high school from Linden Hall in Lititz, PA in 1942, she later received a Bachelor’s degree in fashion design from Acadia College in Glenside, PA in 1946.
In May of 1948, she married William F. Frantz, Sr. in Bristol PA. Mr. Frantz predeceased her on April 10, 2007.
She worked primarily as a homemaker, caring for her family. Katharine was a member of the “Questers”; a group of individuals interested in history and antique treasures. She was an excellent seamstress and also enjoyed gardening and cooking. Katharine moved to the Central Vermont Area in 2008 to be closer to her family.
Survivors include her son; William Frantz, Jr. of Berlin; and a grandson, Rajan L. Frantz of Montpelier.
She was predeceased by a sister, Louisa Collier and a brother Bill Pitzonka.
The family would like to express a sincere thank you to the staff at Woodridge Nursing Home.
There will be no calling hours and a graveside service will be held at the convenience of the family.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Woodridge Nursing Home Patient Activities Fund, P.O. Box 550, Barre, VT 05641.
Pamela Rose (Ghiringhelli) French
....show , 65, of Graniteville Vt. passed away suddenly on March 26, 2014. Pam was born in Montpelier, Vermont on January 2, 1949 at Heaton Hospital to Catherine (O'Neill) and the late Harry D. Ghiringhelli. On September 21st 1968, Pam married Bert Stephen French Jr in Montpelier. They made their home in Middlesex and Worcester until Bert's death on June 20th, 2005. After Bert's passing, Pam moved to Graniteville to be closer to her family.
Pam grew up in Montpelier, Vermont graduating from Montpelier High School in 1968. After graduation, Pam began a career at National Life Insurance Company which spanned over 40 years. She worked there full time until she had to retire due to her husband’s illness. After her husband Bert's death, Pam went back to work at National Life part-time. She also worked part-time for the Worcester and then Graniteville post office, retiring from the post office in 2011. She continued working at National Life Insurance Company part-time until her passing. Pamela enjoyed gardening, Nascar, ceramics, yearly trips to Maine with her family, and her Facebook games. Mostly she enjoyed spending time with her family and friends especially her grandchildren.
Pam is survived by her son, Timothy Bert French and wife, Robin of Graniteville; their children Airman Alex French and Elizah French; daughter, Sarah Lynn Emmons and husband Timothy, of Williamstown; and grandsons, Maximus and Gabriel Dexter. Also surviving are her sisters, Cynthia Daniels and husband, Raymond Quimby Jr.; Lynda and husband, Larry Graham; and her Mother, Catherine Ghiringhelli; and nieces, Nancy; Lisa; Amy; Chrysta; and Laurie; nephews, Nick and Don; and many aunts; uncles and cousins. Pam had many special friends for whom she enjoyed going out to dinner with and just catching up on local news. Pamela was predeceased by her husband Bert S. French Jr; Father, Harry D. Ghiringhelli; sister, Jean Lyons and in-laws. Bert and Stella French.
As per Pam's wishes there will be a celebration of her life at a future date in May at her home in Graniteville. In lieu of flowers, please send contributions to the Norris Cotton Cancer Research Center, D-H Geisel Office of Development, Office of Gift Recording, 1 Medical Drive- Hinman Box 7070, Lebanon, NH 03756-0001 or the Central Vermont Humane Society, PO Box 687, Montpelier VT 05601 in the name of Bert and Pam French.
“Life is not measured by the number of breaths you take, but by the moments that take your breath away”- Maya Angelou.
David P. Frey
....show , 55, died on July 20, 2014, with his wife and son by his side, following a courageous battle with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis.
Dave was born in Akron, Ohio on September 15, 1958. A graduate of Springfield High School in Akron, Ohio and Norwich University, Dave pursued several business ventures in Rochester, New York, San Diego, California and Williston, Vermont before embarking on his legal career. Dave worked with his wife at Steckel Law Office as business manager, paralegal and associate attorney for 10 years. He was licensed to practice law in Vermont after completion of a four year clerkship and passing the bar exam.
Dave’s passion was advocacy and support for victims of crime, especially children. He founded the Vermont Victim Advocacy Project, through which he provided pro bono legal services to crime victims. Dave served as Counsel to the Vermont Restitution Unit and Executive Director of OUR House of Central Vermont. He was the Executive Director of the Orleans County Child Advocacy Center and an officer and director of the Vermont Children’s Alliance until the relentless progression of his disease compelled his retirement.
Dave enjoyed riding his motorcycle, songwriting, playing the piano, drums, guitar and bass, photography and digital art, video gaming and watching soccer matches with his son Jordan, sharing dinner, drinks, and philosophical discussions with good friends, and jam sessions with Eric. Above all, he treasured the time he spent with his two legged and four-legged family.
Dave will be remembered for his unquenchable thirst for knowledge, keen intellect, creativity, honesty, sense of humor, determination, quirky individuality, and true compassion for others, qualities that he retained to the very end. He faced his diagnosis with strength, dignity and grace.
Dave is survived by his wife Su Steckel and son Jordan Steckel-Frey of Cabot, his beloved dogs, Champ, Mac and Damon, his mother-in-law Norma Steckel of Allentown, PA, brother and sister-in-law Scott Steckel and Susan Steckel of Raleigh, NC, brother- in- law Timothy Steckel, M.D. of New Tripoli, PA, sister-in-law Leigh Steckel of Macungie, PA, nephew Eric Steckel of Raleigh, NC, nephew Matt Steckel and niece Paige Steckel of Macungie, PA. His father-in-law Harry Steckel predeceased him.
The Steckel-Frey family would like to thank the Fletcher Allen Pulmonary and Critical Care Team, Internal Medicine Team, Radiation Oncology Team, Respiratory Therapy Team and the amazing nursing staff on Baird 4 for their exceptional care and compassion.
Friends and colleagues may call to pay their respects and share memories of Dave between 5:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. on July 31 at The Topnotch Resort-Summit Room in Stowe, Vermont. At Dave’s request, a party to celebrate his life will be held at Julio’s Cantina in Montpelier on August 9 from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Contributions in Dave’s memory may be made to the Vermont Lung Center, Room 226, HSRF, University of Vermont College of Medicine, 149 Beaumont Avenue, Burlington, Vermont 05405 because every breath counts.
Howard Russell Friedman
....show , 91, of Montpelier, Vermont, died Wednesday September 10, 2014 in his home with his family.
Born in New York City in 1922, he passed his childhood in Brooklyn. He was a graduate of Middlebury College, and a member of the 10th Mountain Division in World War II and received the purple heart.
Howard Received his PhD in Philosophy from the University of Edinburgh, Scotland in 1966. He worked as a professor at the University of Connecticut, Waterbury for 26 years. He was a passionate rockclimber, outdoorsman, photographer, and peace activist.
Howard’s parents were Samuel Friedman and Elizabeth nee Prochinsky. He was predeceased by his son Peter Friedman in 1980. He is survived by his wife, Daisy Friedman nee Bostaetter, daughter, Diane Friedman of Boston, son Michael Friedman, daughter in law, Sarika Tandon, and granddaughter Satya Daisy Tandon-Friedman, his brother Robert Friedman and sister in law Joyce Friedman.
A memorial service will be held at Shao Shan Temple at 125 Cranberry Meadow Road in East Calais, Vermont. at 3:30 pm on Saturday September 13th.
Memorial contributions may be made to Amnesty International
5 Penn Plaza, 16th Floor? New York, NY 10001.
Montpelier, VT - Mary Bugbee Fullerton
....show died on February 25, 2014 in Burlington, Vermont at FAHC of complications following surgery.
Mary was born May 20, 1923 to William and Esther Bugbee of Cornish, NH, the last of four children. Her brother, Charles, of Livingston, NJ, her sister Ruth of Windsor, VT, and her sister, Emily, of Green Bay, WI, predeceased her.
Mary married George Fullerton of Plainfield, New Hampshire in 1943 and they had two children, Michael and Patricia. The couple later divorced and Mary raised her two children herself. She worked at times as coordinator of the hot lunch program for the Hartland, VT school system, as manager of the kitchen at the Austine School for the Deaf in Brattleboro, VT, and as manager of the cafeteria at the Holstein-Frisian Association in Brattleboro. She later worked in the records department at the Brattleboro Retreat and eventually retired as switchboard operator at Marlboro College in Marlboro, VT.
After retirement, Mary moved from Brattleboro, VT to Marcellus, NY to be near her daughter Pat’s family. In 2013, she returned to Vermont and lived in Montpelier near her son, Michael. She is survived by Michael and his wife Denise Wilder of North Calais, VT and daughter, Pat Weikart and her husband Al of Prescott, AZ. Mary’s grandchildren are Jamie Fullerton and his wife Emily of Redmond, WA; Becky Fullerton and her husband Stu Woodham of Roslindale, MA; Chris Weikart of Prescott, AZ; and Jody Weikart of Cincinnati, OH. Great grandchildren of Mary are Aida and Nora Fullerton of Redmond, WA.
Mary loved nature and the outdoors and read extensively about cosmology, geology, English history and much else. She climbed mountains in her younger days and later enjoyed several visits to the Jackson, WY area where she made more lasting friends and also visited a number of National Parks. Mary was also an avid and loyal Red Sox fan and enjoyed auto racing. In her last days, she was very pleased to have lived long enough to see the Daytona 500 race won by her favorite driver, Dale Earnhardt, Jr.
At Mary's request she will be cremated. There will be no service or memorial other than a party planned for Jackson, WY later this year to celebrate her life.
Shirley Ann Gauthier
....show of Cassie Street, Barre Town, passed away on November 6, 2014.
Born in Barre on May 16, 1938, to Earl and Clara (Thorpe) Mason, Shirley lived on Brooklyn Street, Barre, and attended Mathewson and Spaulding High schools. On May 14, 1956, Shirley married James L. Gauthier and celebrated 55 years of marriage until Jim's death in December 2011.
Shirley worked for 27 years in the Barre and, later, Burlington branches of the Metropolitan Life Insurance Company, then spent several years in food services for the Barre City Elementary and Middle School before retiring to dedicate herself to her husband, pets, knitting, and raspberries.
Shirley is survived by three children: Timothy and his wife, Vicki, of Barre Town; Keith and his fiancee, Jennifer Klein, of Fremont, CA; Kerry and her husband, Peter Oparowski, of Williamstown; nine grandchildren and four great-grandchildren (in birth order): Eric and his wife, Michelle, and daughter, Ava, of Jackson Hole, WY; Courtney and her fiancee, Andrew Whiteford, also of Jackson Hole; Kate (Oparowski), her husband, Rick Townley, daughter, Jane, and son, Max, of Omaha, NE; Ian Gauthier of Barre Town; Gwyn Gauthier of Boston, MA; Anna Gauthier of San Francisco, CA; Jessica Oparowski and son, Carter ; Laura Oparowski of Londonderry, VT ;and Emily Gauthier of Cape Town, South Africa.. .
Shirley is also survived by her brothers and sister:, Robert Mason and his wife, Mickey, of CA; Douglas Mason and his wife, Rhoda, of Barre; Stanley Mason and his wife, Sue, of Barre; Beverly LeClerc of Baton Rouge, LA; David Wheeler and his wife, Linda, of Austin, TX; and by numerous nephews and nieces.
The family wishes to share their fondest memories of Shirley, known as "DU" to her children and grandchildren:
From DU, I learned: be frugal but still generous to a fault; there's no place like Harvey's Lake; you can knit without looking; be organized but not overly fussy or neat; you don't have to wear your teeth if you don't feel like it; love your pets; laps are for children; you can endure adversity, hardship, illness, loss, and challenging children and still give and love unconditionally; nothing beats raspberry "Gram Jam"; be honest, strong, responsible, kind, hard-working, and truthful. We love and miss you, DU! -Tim (son)
When our house flooded away on Brook Road in 1984, DU welcomed us into her home with open arms. In the midst of all the chaos and uncertainty, she made us feel safe and secure. Her life centered around her family and she was so generous to us all. There are memories of laughter and game playing around the kitchen table, friendly conversation and a welcoming cup of coffee, grandchildren hunting Easter eggs, Christmas eve visits from Mrs. Claus and Santa, water fights and paddle boat rides at Harvey's lake. Those memories and so many more will sustain us in years to come and make us smile. We will miss you, DU, and you are loved! -(Tim's wife, Vicki)
“DU” to her grandchildren or “Shuby Gunther” to solicitors, loved to give to her family. Whether planning extravagant Easter egg hunts for her grandchildren, knitting sweaters, baking Christmas bubble bread, telling funny stories, or making jars of “Gram Jam,” DU was always very generous. Some of our fondest memories are from summers spent
together at Harvey's Lake, where she once hid sunken "pirate treasure" in a coffee can for her grandson (buried by notorious pirates Chase and Sanborn, of course). Most of all, DU
was generous with her time, especially to loved ones, and that's the greatest gift you can give. We all have a little bit of our feisty DU in us, be it a love of animals, a passion for games, or an appreciation for off-color humor. We love you, DU!
-Ian and Gwyn (grandchildren)
Mom, The last time we spoke you asked me if you would ever get to see me again, since I moved west. As it turned out, it was I who never got to see you again. I wish that I had the opportunity to tell you how much you mean to me and how much I appreciate all you stood for and wouldn’t stand for in my life. You worked hard all of your life but made time to enjoy the things that were important, that is, our family. You are a great mom and a great mother, and there is a difference. You rejoiced in my good fortunes and gave me that look and mommy voice when I needed it. You and Dad did an outstanding job raising Tim, Kerry and I.e are not perfect but we are a reflection of you and your best qualities. Your legacy will live on through your children, your grandchildren and your great-grandchildren.
You love us all and we love you. will always remember you with a mixture of happiness, at who you are, and sadness, as you have left us. -Keith (son) Shirley, I want to thank you for how you so graciously welcomed me into your home, your family and your heart! It was such a treat to watch you with each and every one of your own grown children, grandchildren and great grandchildren, no matter the age. It was as much of a treat to watch them with you, as you always knew how to fill everyone's faces and hearts with a special light and happiness. You had such a magical way with everyone you loved! You were surprisingly protective of those you cherished. We had many intimate talks over the years I've had the pleasure of knowing you. Asking questions without ever judging the personal answers and always there with a dose of laughter when needed. All of these qualities and SO MUCH more are the wonderful and amazing attributes I see within each member of your family...what a beautiful gift you have given us all Shirley - your legacy! And for me, the true icing on your cake, my sweet, was the day I finally earned enough of your trust, respect and love to have the honor of you giving me the permission and pleasure of calling you DU! You will be missed by all who had the good fortune of calling you family and friend. All my love forever! -Jennifer (Keith's fiancee)
If you don't finish your Christmas list, you're not getting anything. Gram was a rock of truth in a storm sea of Gauthiers. Her wit and charm always kept you on your toes and laughter always kept the joke rolling. Remember, we love and miss our Gram. “Nadine was #2.” -Eric (grandson)
Dear The best Gram in the world left us too early but her sense of humor, her gram jam. her awesome knitting projects and gram sweaters, epic easter egg hunts and the memories of summer days at Harvey's lake will live in our hearts forever. She taught us to be good people, to (try) to be on time and all the other important Gram things- but she also taught us to play cards, to love life and to have fun no matter the circumstances. We will miss you Gram! -Courtney (granddaughter)
Grammy DU, You taught us to play poker when we were young, advising us to be cautious and quick witted. You designed us elaborate Easter egg hunts,every year, never fail. Advising us to be creative and broad thinkers. You sent us to collect raspberries every summer, for your famous gram jam, Showing us the best and most ripe fruit to pick. While the bubble bread was baking in the oven, you finally wrote down the secret recipe so it could live on, giving us another dish to make every year. We got kisses everyday in line during lunch at school, and knew who we could always run to when in need of a hug. Your sweaters kept us warm, Your love kept us warmer still. These are memories we keep, Just a few of an endless store. They all live on in our hearts. You created and glued our family together, Using simple dedication, And strong unconditional love. You are the matriarch of our clan. And you knit our family close. Most of all, you showed us the importance of one another. Love you forever. -Anna and Emily (granddaughters)
Mom; You left too soon. I wasn't done spending time with you. There are so many things I need to tell you. I didn't thank you enough for all your patience and understanding; and God knows I tested those. You taught me some of life's most important lessons. One was it's ok to call each other the "B" word, but only while playing cards. Another was that happiness comes from within. But the most important was to love your family with all your heart. I love you Mom, and will miss you so much. Be happy with Papa and Brandy. Love, your favorite daughter, -Kerry.(daughter)
When I think of my grandmother (DU), a wave of comfort, happiness and love washes over me. She was the smell of fresh laundry on the line, the raspberry stains on my fingers, the bubble bread oozing, the cards being shuffled, the Pall Mall’s in the ashtray, the sound of knitting needles clicking, the sharing of stories, the splash of someone being dumped in the lake, the touch of aloe being gently rubbed on a sunburn, the gentle discussions about growing up. She meant the world to me, and I will miss her more than words can say. –Kate Townley (granddaughter)
There will be no calling hours. Shirley will be interred, with a brief memorial service, beside her husband, James, in the Vermont Veterans Cemetery In Randolph, VT, on or about her birthday, May 16, 2015. In lieu of flowers, contributions in Shirley's memory can be made to the Central Vermont Humane Society.
Williamstown, VT - Glen George Goodall
....show , age 96, died with his family surrounding him on November 4, 2014.
Glen was born in Topsham, Vermont on July 10, 1918. He was the son of Ralph and Alice Goodall and was predeceased by his sister, Ruth Deiniger. For the last six years, Glen and his wife, Esther, have made their home at The Gardens in Williamstown, Vermont.
He leaves his wife Esther, and their two daughters and their spouses. Nancy and Dan Boucher of Cape Neddick, Maine, Susan and Skip Lightsey of Newport Washington, three grandchildren and their partners, Thaddeus and Daysi Ward of Queens, New York, Toby Marston and Jennifer Stephens of Bellingham, Washington and Tamara Marston and Matt Klein of Litchfield New Hampshire and many loving cousins and relatives.
Glen was married on December 25, 1941 to his high school sweetheart, Esther Crane and they celebrated 72 years of marriage. Glen and Esther moved to East Montpelier in the empty nest years, wanting a view and a larger garden. They joined the Old Meeting House Church, becoming active and caring members.
Glen attended elementary school and high school in Montpelier, graduating in 1936. He played basketball and was known for his skill and height on the court. He played for a semi pro team called the “BLUE DEVILS” for many years.
Prewar Glen worked for the telephone company. During World War II Glen served for five years as an Army Staff Sergant in the 172 nd 43rd division. He spent three years in the South Pacific.
Postwar he worked for Cross Baking Company and later had a long career as a paper salesman for the Vermont Paper Company and Lindemeyer Munroe Paper Company. Glen retired at the age of 78.
At the age of 55 Glen started bicycling logging over 75,000 miles and stopped biking at age 82. He and Esther biked all over New England and he shared his passion for biking with family and friends. He was an avid gardener and enjoyed sharing his produce with non-gardeners.
Glen was a life-long community activist. He was a member of the Montpelier School Board and Recreation Board. He was on the board of the Vermont Community Loan Fund and Land Trust. He volunteered for Meals on Wheels, Food Bank supplies and Soup Kitchen pickup. He served as the chairman for the Vermont Cancer Daffodil Drive. In 1993 Glen was honored with the State of Vermont Volunteer of the Year award.
In conjunction with his community service, he was inspired by his Bethany Church membership and become a lay minister. He served as the Vermont UCC President and later was an interim minister at the Berlin Vermont UCC church for six years.
Grateful thanks to the loving caregivers who included family members, the staff and residents at the Gardens and Central Vermont Home Health and Hospice. His life was full, good and caring.
A memorial service will be held on Saturday November 8 at 11:00 a.m. at the Old Meeting House Church, East Montpelier, Vermont.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests contributions to the Old Meeting House Church or Cow Power Energy or your favorite hunger or housing project or plant a garden and share your produce.
Montpelier, VT - Stanley Merlin Grandfield
....show , 87, died on April 12, 2014, at The Arbors in Shelburne. He was born in Montpelier on July 21, 1926, the son of Milferd and Gladys (Newton) Grandfield. After graduating from Spaulding High School in 1944 he enlisted in the U.S. Navy during World War II and was honorably discharged in 1946. He attended Middlebury College in the V12 program, then attended UVM, graduating with a B.S. degree in Commerce and Economics, majoring in Business Administration with a minor in Political Science. He later attended graduate school at UVM for one year working toward a Masters degree in Education. He married Ethel Gaylord of Waitsfield on October 7, 1950. They had three daughters and one son.
From 1950-52 he taught business, commercial courses and mathematics in the Vergennes High School. He then worked as a cost accountant for G.E. in Burlington before starting his banking career in 1954 at the Peoples Bank in Barre, working in most functions of banking operations for five years. He became commander of the American Legion Post #10, was a member of Mt. Sinai Temple A.A.O.N.M.S., Granite Lodge #35, F.& A.M., and Scottish Rite Masons. In August 1959 he moved to St. Johnsbury, joining the staff of the Citizens Savings Bank & Trust Co. as Assistant Vice President and Trust Officer. He became a member of the North Congregational Church, where he also taught Sunday School. He joined the Kiwanis Club and was 2nd Vice President. He was Vice President of the VT Football Officials Association for many years and officiated football games in VT and many colleges/universities on the East coast. He attended six sessions of VT-NH School of Banking and took courses in the Northern VT Chapter of AIB, becoming President of the Chapter during its second year of existence and served on its Board of Directors for three years. He was a member of VT Bankers Association commission on Insurance and Pensions; Chairman of State Bank Division of V.B.A. and Trust Division of VBA, Committee on Relations with the Legal Profession. He served on the Montpelier Public School Board.
He enjoyed hunting, fishing, golf and spending time at his hunting camp in Lewis, VT. He and his wife spent over 30 years vacationing on Kinney Shores, ME with family joining them. After building a summer home in Worcester, VT, they enjoyed spending the summer months there. He enjoyed working in and harvesting apples from his orchard. Visitors with young children were treated to candy bars when he went into the woods and returned with his straw hat full of treats he had picked from his “Candy Bar Tree” that grew on the forested part of land surrounding the camp.
In the early 1970’s, he started a skating rink in Montpelier known as the Salt Shed, which also served the outlying towns, and was in use for many years. He was the 14th recipient of the Wm. Thayer Tutt Award from USA Hockey in 1997, attending the annual meeting in Colorado Springs, CO.
He retired from the Howard Bank in June 1988. In December 1988, he joined Triad Design Services in Williston and later bought Triad Temporary Services.
Stanley is survived by his wife Ethel and leaves three daughters; Cheryl Grandfield and husband Richard of New York City, Susan Costanza and husband Ralph of Norfolk, MA, Karen Haskell and husband Douglas of Cavendish, VT; one son, Gary Grandfield and wife Claire of Nevada City, CA; five grandchildren, William, Matthew, and Christopher Costanza of Norfolk, MA and Evelyn and Grady Grandfield of Nevada City, CA; sister, Pauline Tyler of Barre, VT and many nieces and nephews.
The Grandfield family would like to express their sincere appreciation to the entire staff of The Arbors in Shelburne for their compassionate care of Stanley for the past several months.
There will be calling hour on Thursday, April 17, 2014 from 6-8:00pm at Guare & Sons/Barber and Lanier Funeral Home.
In lieu of flowers contributions in his memory may be made to a charity of one’s choice.
Barbara C. Greve
....show , 88, formerly of West County Road, and more recently of Woodridge Nursing Home died May 4, 2014 at Central Vermont Hospital.
She was born on December 31, 1925 in Boston, MA the daughter of Herbert C. and Christine (Silva) Regan of Medford, MA. She graduated from Medford High School in Massachusetts in 1942.
Barbara was married to Vincent J. Greve who served overseas during WW 2. He predeceased her in 1954.
Barbara was employed as a data processing manager and was transferred to Atlanta, GA in 1952, where she was employed by Southern Saw Service for 31 years. After retiring in 1988 she moved to Calais, VT where she lived the reminder of her life until she moved to Woodridge Nursing Home. Barbara loved to paint, care for her boston terriers, cats and kept the birds and animals fed through the winter.
She was a member of the Old Brick Church, East Montpelier.
Barbara is survived by cousins in Massachusetts and Rhode Island.
A Memorial service will be held at Guare & Sons Funeral Home on Saturday May 10, 2014 at 2 pm.
Burial will be in Robinson Cemetery, Calais, VT.
Memorial contributions may be made to Woodridge Nursing Home, Patient Activities Fund, PO Box 550, Barre, VT 05641.
Peter Bernard Hanson
....show , age, 65, of Route 12 in Berlin, took the final journey into the arms of his lord and savior on February 7, 2014 in the comfort of his home surrounded by his family.
He was born on June 2, 1948 in Montpelier, the son of Andrew William and Louise (Lyons) Hanson.
He attended St. Michael’s Grade School and High School until the school was closed in 1967. He then transferred to Montpelier High School where he graduated in 1968.
Peter first worked for Farrell Distributing and later joined the National Life Insurance Company. He worked in the Print Shop for 28 years.
Peter married Judy Hopkins on April 26, 1969 at St. Augustine Catholic Church. She has predeceased him on Jan. 25, 1987. He later married Theresa Helget on January 9, 1999 at St. Augustine Catholic Church.
Peter was a member of St. Augustine Catholic Church and the Montpelier Cribbage League.
An avid adventurer, Peter traveled to several NASCAR venues. His fondness for sporting events led him to long and proud alliances with the Boston Celtics and Green Bay Packers. More recently he discovered the excitement involved with pyrotechnics, traveling with his associates throughout the state bringing fireworks displays to the delight of those in attending the events.
Peter had a strong commitment to family and friends lending assistance without question whenever needed.
He followed a strong moral compass throughout his life with love and respect for others.
Survivors include his beloved wife, Theresa of West Berlin; much loved stepchildren, Ernest Swenson and his wife Sarah of Montpelier, Sandy Swenson of West Berlin, Max Swenson of Las Vegas, NV and Deanna LaCasse and her husband Tim of Hugo, MN; and cherished grandchildren, Emily Swenson, Zac Baidasaro, Ryan and Jessica LaCasse; his siblings, William Hanson and his wife Marilyn of Tucson, AZ. Susan Smaldino of Las Vegas, NV, Linda Downing of Springfield, VT; and Penny McCrea of Manitou Springs, CO; two uncles, Richard Lyons of Wagoner, OK; and Donald Lyons of Montpelier, VT; and many nieces and nephews.
Calling hours will be held on Tuesday, Feb. 11th from 6-8 pm at the Guare & Sons Funeral Home.
A Funeral Mass will be held at 2:00 pm, Wednesday at St. Augustine Catholic church.
Committal prayers and burial will be in the spring time at Berlin Corners Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Dartmouth Hitchcock Pain Management Clinic. Donations can be made online at: giving.d-h.org/painmanagement Donations can also be sent by mail attention Amy Schrom at: D-H: Development Office, 1 Medical Center Drive Lebanon, NH 03756-0001. Checks should be made out to "Dartmouth-Hitchcock" with Pain Clinic Education Fund in the memo line with indication it is in honor of Peter Hanson.
Montpelier, VT - Carmelita Marie (Murray) Healy
....show of 37 Liberty Street then later at 600 Elm Street of Montpelier died peacefully Monday evening Dec. 8 at Berlin Health and Rehab.
She was born in Rutland, VT on June 22, 1926 as the second daughter to Royal H. and Carmen Gambero Murray. Her father Royal died in a rare car accident in August of 1929 in Charlotte, VT and her mother Carmen died in December of 1983. Carmelita went through the Rutland School System and due to World War II, graduated from Warren Hardy High School in Bridgeport, CT as her mother worked in the defense industry. Carmelita attended the Rutland College of Business.
Carmie was predeceased by her husband of 44 years, Charles (Mike) E. Healy, whom she married in Rutland on April 18, 1949. Her sister, Beverly Mayo of Castleton, Vt. died in January 2014.
Surviving are 5 children: Shawn M. Healy and wife, Mina of Plainfield; Lauren M. Bell and husband, Charles H. of Minneapolis, MN; Timothy C. Healy, of Northfield; Patrick R. Healy and wife, Lauri Snetsinger, of Marshfield; and Michael G. Healy, of Barre. She has 6 grandchildren: Jason, Sarah, Ashley, Royal, Wyatt, Brendon, and one great grandson, Liam.
She worked for “Abbie” Soma at the old Brown Derby, which seemed forever. While Carmie was very busy raising her children and working; she did find time for herself thru the St. Vincent DePaul Society and the Emblem Club. She loved to sew, garden and especially cook, as we had many neighborhood and school friends at the dinner table.
Burial will take place at Green Mount Cemetery at 10:30 am on Saturday Dec. 13 with a Mass to follow at St. Augustine beginning at 12:00 noon and then a reception in the parish hall. Please feel free to join the family at any time to celebrate Carmie’s life.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Green Mount Cemetery Endowment Care Fund, City Hall, 39 Main Street, Montpelier VT.
ShirleyAnne Himes
....show , 83, of Calais died peacefully at her home on March 21, 2014 after a brief illness.
She was born May 24, 1930, in Brooklyn, New York, the daughter of Olaf Johnson and Charlotte (Acherman) Johnson.
ShirleyAnne attended schools in Oceanside, Long Island, NY and received a Master’s Degree in Education from Johnson State College.
She was married to Ralph E. Himes in February 19, 1949 in Ocean Side, New York.
ShirleyAnne was a long time teacher at the former St. Michael’s Graded School in Montpelier, Vermont, where she taught kindergarten and first grade, from 1967 to 2002. She was a member of St. Augustine Church, also in Montpelier.
She is survived by her daughter Deborah M. Craig, and her husband, Jeffrey; and her son, David J. Himes and his wife, Gina; all of Woodbury; grandchildren, Joshua D. Leno, Amy E. Leno Noyes and her husband Michael; Christian T. Leno and his wife, Kylie; and Jeremiah D. Himes; great grandchildren, Grayden and Adeline Noyes, Zander Leno, and Maggie Himes; former son-in-law, Thomas Leno and his wife, Becky.
ShirleyAnne was predeceased by her husband, Ralph, who died November 7, 1993, and her sister, Cecilia Albert Dojohn, who died April 28, 1995.
There will be no calling hours.
A Funeral Mass will be held at 1:00 pm, Saturday, April 5th at St. Augustine Catholic Church, Montpelier, Vermont.
Donations may be made to: Central Vermont Catholic School, 79 Summer Street, Barre, VT 05641.
Barbara G. Hoyt
....show , 89, of Berlin Street, Montpelier died Friday, February 21, 2014 at her home in Montpelier.
She was born in Ludlow, Vermont, on December 12, 1924, the daughter of Albert & Carmen (Snell) Gilman. When growing up on her Grandmother’s farm in Ludlow, Barbara attended Black River Academy in Ludlow. Later she graduated from the Jeanne Mance School of Nursing in Burlington and decided much later in life to achieve her goal of obtaining her college degree by earning her Bachelor of Arts degree from Goddard College.
Barb, as her friends knew her, worked at a job she really enjoyed, with the Vermont Department of Social Welfare. As a social worker, she was always a strong advocate for families in need including many evenings finding assistance to those without food or fuel.
She married Lloyd I. Hoyt in Burlington, VT on August 11, 1944. They have two children, Doug & Mike and lived in Montpelier for many years. Mr. Hoyt predeceased her on October 15, 1977.
Barbara was a member of St. Augustine Catholic Church and the Catholic Daughters. Until her health restricted her mobility, she could be found most any mass at Saint Augustine sitting in “her” seat at the rear of the church. Barb greatly enjoyed her time participating in the prayer circle and other telephone related activities staying in touch with others.
She is survived by two sons, Douglas S. Hoyt and his wife, Charlotte of Montpelier and Michael Hoyt and his wife, Judy of Spring Hills, Florida; three grandchildren, Julieann Barney and her husband, Brian of Peacham; Derrick Hoyt and his wife, Holly of East Barre; and Joseph Hoyt of Montpelier: four great grandchildren, twins- Katherine and Colin Barney; Brady Hoyt and Ethan Hoyt.
The family would like to extend its appreciation to TLC Nursing for its services that helped to fulfill Barbara’s wish to remain at home during the past months.
A Funeral Mass will be held at 11 AM, Wednesday February 26, 2014 at St. Augustine Catholic Church. A memorial reception will follow the Mass in the parish hall.
Burial will be held later at Pleasant View Cemetery, Ludlow, VT.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Augustine Catholic Church, 16 Barre Street, Montpelier, VT 05602.
Middlesex, VT - Barbara Lane Hull
....show died peacefully Friday morning December 19, 2014 at her home in Middlesex, with her daughter Kimberlee, her son-in-law Healy, her granddaughter Jodi and her boyfriend Ryan and their son Jacob, and family friend Kevin by her side. She was 83 years old.
A lifelong resident of Middlesex and East Montpelier, She attended Horn of the Moon School. She was married on April 20, 1949 in St Augustine Catholic Church to the late George Hull, and with him, ran a farm for years and raised her family on Horn of the Moon Road.
Survivors include Kimberlee Stevens and her husband, Healy May; Darleen Aldrich-Sumner; Larry Hull and wife, Pauline; and Douglas Hull and wife, Mary. She was predeceased by her husband George, her son Dwight and her grandson Douglas Jr.
Her grandchildren include Jodi May, Ashley Stevens, Amica Stevens, Dwight Hull Jr, Alicia Hull-Lapoint, Gwen Hull, Jamie Hull, Telia Utton, Reagan Sumner and Holly Sumner.
At her request, there is to be no funeral service. Condolences may be extended to her family at her home on Horn of the Moon Road.
Barbara was loved by many and will never be forgotten. May she now rest in peace watching down on all of her loved ones.
Elizabeth “Betty” K. Ibey
....show , 82, of Cobble Hill Meadows, Barre Town, died at Central Vermont Hospital from injuries resulting from an automobile accident on Saturday, July 5, 2014.
Betty was a lifelong resident of Central Vermont. She was born and raised in Montpelier, the youngest of four children, to Wilmot (Bill) and Antoinette (Normandin) Kynoch. She attended St. Michael’s Grade School and graduated from St. Michael’s High School in the Class of 1949.
Betty married Donald Ibey at St. Augustine's church in Montpelier in 1950. They were happily married for 64 years. They lived in Montpelier for many years where they raised their children. Betty worked for Capital City Gas Company, Vermont College, and 20 years for National Life Insurance Company in payroll and human resources until she retired.
Betty is survived by her husband, Donald, of Barre Town; daughter, Gail Poitras and husband Clay of Montpelier; sons, Brian Ibey and wife Laura of Barre Town; Barry Ibey and wife Charlene of Plainfield; and Richard Ibey and wife Heidi of Plainfield; nine grandchildren, 1 great grandson, and nieces and nephews. She is predeceased by her son Michael Jay Ibey, brother L. Wilmot (Bill) Kynoch, and sisters Helen Hill and Marion Roya.
Betty was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, aunt and friend. She loved baking and always had fresh baked treats to offer visitors. She was an avid reader and enjoyed keeping her hands busy with needlepoint, knitting, puzzles, bowling and playing the organ and piano. She played beautifully, starting from an early age, and played the pipe organ in St. Augustine's church for weddings and during weekly Mass while she was in high school. Her family and friends will cherish memories of a wonderful woman with a kind heart.
A funeral Mass will be held at 10:00 am, Friday July 11th in St. Monica's church, Summer Street, Barre. Burial will follow the Mass at Plain-Mount Cemetery, East Montpelier. There are no calling hours.
The family wishes to thank the quick response and rescue efforts of the Barre emergency personnel, and the emergency room staff at Central Vermont Hospital for their care and support.
Montpelier, VT - Alyssa Carolyn Lee Isham
....show , 7 weeks, died unexpectedly on Friday, August 15, 2014 at her home.
She was born on June 27, 2014 at Central Vermont Hospital, the daughter of Marlo Davis and Scott Isham.
She is survived by her parents; siblings, Krystian Simpson, Tristan Miskolczi, Gabriella Miskolczi of Montpelier; maternal grandmother, Beverly Davis and her companion, William Lemieux of Barre, VT; maternal grandfather, Charles Davis of Barre, VT; paternal grandparents, Elaine and Ross Isham of Montpelier; aunt, Christina Davis; uncles, Tyler Davis and Brian Isham; cousin, Noah Isham; godmother, Alicia Cloud; and many more aunts, uncles, and cousins.
Calling hours will be held from 6:00-8:00pm on Wednesday, August 20, 2104 at the Guare & Sons/Barber & Lanier Funeral Home. A funeral service will be held 11:00 am on Thursday, August 21, 2014, also at the funeral home.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Children’s Hospital at Dartmouth, D-H/Geisel Office of Development, Office of Gift Recording, One Medical Center Drive, Hinman Box 7070, Lebanon, NH 03756-0001.
James Frederick Jarvis
....show , of Berlin Pond Road, Northfield died Friday, Sept. 12, 2014 at his home.
Born in Graniteville, Vermont, in 1937 he was born to Willis and Marion Jarvis. As a young child, he moved to Windsor to reside with his grandparents where he graduated from high school and joined the Navy. After serving with the U.S. Navy in the Korean War, he retuned to his home state of Vermont and joined the National Guard. He served his country with pride and honor for 12 years. After working 20 years for Rouelle and Desilets Granite Co. he then was employed by the State of Vermont where he retired as supervisor of the Boiler Room. For many years he was a member of Montpelier Elks Club, and American Legion 3 and spent many hours volunteering with various organizations including the VFW 792 and mentoring children.
He touched the lives of three families with Bonnie Gallagher, Rose Wheeler and Beverly Amell. Together they reared the following children: James Jr., Deseree, Patty, Karen, Doug, Francis, John, David, Kathy, Shirley and Susan. He is survived by sisters: Shirley, Wanda, Maggie, and Delia; brothers: Jerry, Donald, Robert, Mike, Patrick, Thomas, and Mark; 32 grandchildren; 56 great grandchildren; and one aunt, Ester Vezina. He was preceded by his parents, step father, a brother, 2 sisters and 2 great grandchildren.
The high light of his life was the times spent with his children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. He left many precious memories. He will be greatly missed by all.
On Wednesday, September 17th calling hours will be held at the Guare& Sons/Barber & Lanier Funeral Home, 30 School Street, Montpelier at 11:00 am - 2:00 pm. A service of remembrance will follow at 3:00 pm.
Burial and military honors will be at the Vermont Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Randolph, VT
MIDDLESEX, VT - Frederica Joy Lessor Alarie Ring Jones
....show of Middlesex died quietly Wednesday at her home surrounded by her family. She was 86 and had been in declining health for several years.
She was born Aug. 16, 1927 in Burlington, the daughter of Julia and Frederick Lessor. She grew up in Burlington and married her childhood sweetheart, Conrad Alarie in 1945 and was widowed in 1963. She fell in love and married Benjamin Albert Ring in 1965, and was widowed again in 1989. In 1990 she eloped with her flying instructor, Donald G Jones, with whom she spent the rest of her long and happy life.
Her employment over the years included delivering telegrams for Western Union, selling and repairing televisions, raising animals from ducks and geese to beefalo, and local politics. In addition to raising her own family, she took in temporarily displaced children as readily as she adopted stray cats. She was an active member of the Middlesex United Methodist Church, and was generally beloved for her optimism and energy.
As an only child she often wished to have a dozen children, and over the years she was blessed with thirteen. She is survived by five sons and stepsons, David Ring of Medical Lake, Wash., Wilson Ring of Waterbury Center, Donald Jones Jr. of Kissimmee, Fla., Mark Jones of Burlington and Robin Jones of Vergennes; six daughters and step daughters, Julia Alarie and Patricia Markle of Williston, Ruth Ring of Wichita Kan., Hope Ring of Charlton Mass., Laura Ring of Chicago, and Lynda Snow of Gilbert Ariz.; 22 grandchildren, 19 great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild. She was predeceased by a daughter, Mary Jane McGrath, a step son, Howard Jones, and a grandson, Jason Ring.
Calling hours will be held from 6:00-8:00 on Friday February 7, 2014 at the Guare and Sons Funeral Home, School Street, Montpelier. A funeral will be held Saturday at 1 p.m. at the Middlesex United Methodist Church.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Middlesex United Methodist Church, 10 Church Street, Middlesex, Vt. 05602
Marie Yvette Jones
....show , 84, of Jones Road, Moretown died peacefully with her family present, at Central Vermont Medical Center on August 20, 2014. She has been a resident at the Berlin Health & ReHab Center for several years. Marie was born October 10, 1929 in Montpelier, the daughter of Henry and Anna (Bessette) Mandeville. She was educated in the Montpelier School system and attended Vermont Police Academy.
Marie married Douglas L. Jones, Sr. on July 16, 1955. Mr. Jones died May 21, 2008.
Marie worked at Norwich University in the Bursar’s Office, for the Boy Scouts of America, Vermont Housing and Urban Development (HUD), the Montpelier Police Department as a dispatcher, National Life Insurance Company, State of Vermont and several years with Washington County Sheriff’s Office as a deputy sheriff.
Marie was a devoted mother and grandmother. An avid outdoors person, Marie loved hunting and fishing. She liked to play the guitar and loved to play bingo.
She is survived by three daughters: Sandra M. (Jones) Nemeskay and husband Emory of North Stonington, CT; Sheryl A. (Jones) Barrows and husband Mitchell of Moretown, and Lynn E. (Jones) Joslin and husband Jason of Berlin; two sons, Douglas L. Jones, Jr. and wife Connie of Arizona and Lawrence E. Jones and wife Penelope of Moretown; one granddaughter, Morgan Joslin and three grandsons, Hayden Jones, Shawn Isham and Reginald Bragg, Jr.; sister, Marguerite Jones of Montpelier.
There will be no callings hours and at Marie’s request there will be no funeral service. Memorial contributions may be made to the Berlin Health & ReHab Center, Patient Activities Fund, 98 Hospitality Drive, Barre, VT 06641.
Florence C. Jordan
....show , 94, longtime resident of Berlin Street, Montpelier, slipped away while no one was peeking and joined her husband in a heavenly place, Sunday afernoon, November 9, 2014, while being cared for at Rowan Court Nursing Home.
She was born on February 9, 1920 in Garden City, New York the daughter of Patrick and Pearl (Ash) Cavanagh. Florence spent some time living and learning in Montreal, Canada, speaking fluent French. She returned to New York City with her parents and brothers thus discovering her love for the country and horseback riding when they moved on to Maine. She treasured her life and home on Dennis Hill, Maine.
Florence was married to Albert H. Jordan on February 13, 1943, the son of a respected farmer. After their second child was born,
they relocated to Long Island New York, where they lived for many years, enjoying many day trips into the City for Broadway shows and other events.
After coming to Vermont to live and after the children were grown, Mr. Jordan predeceased her on November 6, 1991.
She was a member of St. Augustine Catholic Church.
Survivors include her daughter, Muriel Goldbeg and her husband, James of Williston, Vt; Grandson, Christopher Eaton and his wife, Sabine of Portland, Oregon and their daughter Lily of Portland, Oregon; and Alexander Eaton of Cape Cod, Massachusetts; and a Granddaughter, Leslie Baker of Waterbury Center and husband.
She was predeceased by her devoted son Albert N. Jordan on September 28, 2008; and her three brothers, Patrick Cavanagh, Norman Cavanagh and Thomas Cavanagh.
Other surviving family include her Niece Barbara Joshi and husband, Shiv Joshi of Pales Verdes, California; and her Nephew Dennis Cavanagh and his wife Sue of Portland, Oregon.
Calling hours will be held on Friday, November 14th from 11:00AM to 1:00 PM at Guare & Sons/Barber & Lanier Funeral Home, 30 School Street, Montpelier. A Funeral Service will follow calling hours starting at 1:00 PM at the funeral home.
In lieu of flowers, Memoral Contributions may be sent to St. Jude's Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, Tenn.
Montpelier, VT - Beverly Morse Keck
....show , 71, faithful wife to Thomas Keck was released peacefully into the loving arms of Jesus after a long battle with cancer. She was at home surrounded by her family.
Beverly was born in Joliet, Illinois to Martha Mae and Daryl Morse. She was educated in Illinois and began her career as a teacher in Vermont. It was her joy to teach in and out of the classroom. She also loved painting, gardening, traveling, water sports, Bible studies, cooking and sharing her talents with others. Christian music ministry was an important part of her life. Bev volunteered her time and talent with several churches as a musical director. She was a vital part of the Montpelier Gospel Choir, and local ukulele group. She was exceedingly generous, and enjoyed hosting gatherings with an abundance of food and laughter.
She is survived by her beloved husband Thomas Keck, her brothers Burton and James Morse, sister Mrs. Jean Whiteside, sister-in law Carolyn, daughter Heidi and son Eric, daughter- in law Beth and son-in law Dr. Roger Diegel. Grandchildren Zion, Thunder, Phoebe and Zachri in New Hampshire, and Lillian, Elizabeth, Thomas and Tobias in Montana. She has many beloved nieces and nephews and was delighted with a growing number of grandnieces and grandnephews.
The funeral will be in East Montpelier at the Old Meeting House on Sunday, October 5 at 3pm.
Florence Elaine (Jacky) Keene
....show , 83, of Montpelier, passed away May 4, 2014. Florence, better known to all as Jehrusha, was born February 14, 1931 in Elizabeth, New Jersey. She is pre-deceased by her mother Catherine Baker and her father Ezra Lee Culver. After graduating from high school, she served in the Navy from 1950-1952 during the Korean War. She went on to marry Robert A. Keene (deceased) and raise seven children, then attended Old Dominion University in Norfolk, VA and Smith College in Northampton, MA, where she earned a degree in English Literature at age 58.
She is survived by her seven children: Deborah and husband Santo Tomasine of Williamsburg, MA; Maureen and husband David Siaca of Long Beach, NY; Kathleen and husband Robert St.George of Easthampton, MA; Robert Jr. (Bud) and wife Alexandra of Wolcott, VT; Patrick of Hyde Park, VT; Daniel and wife Karen of Montpelier, VT; and James of Morrisville, VT. She leaves behind seven grandchildren: Majorca, Joseph, Lucas, Zachary, Kyle, Peyton, and Ryan; and two great-grandchildren: Guy and Memphis.
Jehrusha was an avid reader and a seeker of knowledge and inspiration throughout her life, and she filled her home with books of many genres. She also loved writing, cooking and baking, traveling, painting, drawing, knitting, sewing, and most of all spending time with her family, especially her beloved grandchildren. She was a cancer survivor who lived with exceptional passion and determination and made every single day count. We will miss her terribly but we hope to make her proud by living our lives with purpose and passion and keeping our family ties strong.
Calling hours will be 6-8pm Thursday, May 8at Guare and Sons Funeral Home, 30 School Street, Montpelier, VT 05602. A Memorial service will be held at 1pm Friday, May 9 at the Stowe Community Church, 137 Main Street, Stowe, VT 05672. Friends and family of Jehrusha are invited to share stories of remembrance during the Memorial service. Following the service family and friends will gather for a celebration of Jehrusha’s life at The Matterhorn, 4969 Mountain Road (Route 108), Stowe.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made the Clarina Howard Nichols Center, P.O. Box 517, Morrisville VT
MONTPELIER - Patricia Kelleher
....show , 88, died Jan. 1, 2014, at her home in Montpelier. She was born Aug. 24, 1925, in Montpelier, the daughter of Francis and Maizie (Rumsey) Kelleher. She was predeceased by cousins, Helen Doe, Quentin Doe and Robert Doe. She is survived only by distant cousins. A funeral service will be held Tuesday, Feb. 4, at 11 a.m. at the Guare & Sons Funeral Home. Committal prayers will be offered following the service at Green Mount Cemetery. There will be no calling hours.
Middlesex, VT - Larry William Kennison, Sr.
....show , 68, of Route 12 in Middlesex, died on Saturday, February 1, 2014 at the Fletcher Allen Medical Center in Burlington.
He was born on December 23, 1945 in Johnson, VT, the son of Vernon M. Kennison, Sr and Etta (Brown) Kennison.
He attended public schools in Johnson, VT and graduated from Johnson High School in 1963.
On June 13, 1964, he married Jeri M. Hayden in Northfield, VT.
He enlisted in the armed services in 1965 and served during the Vietnam War until his honorable discharge in 1967.
Beginning in 1969, he worked as a Teamster truck driver for a number of companies, most recently for the former Consolidated Freight Company in Williston, where he retired in 2000.
He was a member of the American Legion Post #3 and the VFW post # 792. He enjoyed antique collecting as well as auctions and flea markets. His favorite past-time was hunting, fishing, sports, and spending time with his family and friends.
Survivors include his wife of 49 years, Jeri M. Kennison of Middlesex; daughter, Sheryl Chaffee and her husband Ronald of Barre, VT; sons, Larry W. Kennison, Jr., and his wife Amy of Barre, Thomas A. Kennison and his wife Kimberly of Barre, and Matthew V. Kennison and his wife Dawn of Morrisville; grandchildren, Kristi Kennison, Douglas Burns, Thomas J. Kennison, Joshua Kennison, Paul Kennison, Jayson Chaffee, Cyla Kennison, Daniel Cutting, Faith Kennison, and Haley Kennison; great grandson, Cyrus John Bates; brother, Vernon Kennison, Jr., of Worcester, VT.
He was predeceased by his siblings; Viola Partlow, Polly Lepage, Virginia Blanchard, Morris Kennison, Buddy Kennison, and Earnest Kennison.
There will be no calling hours. A memorial service will be held at 1:00pm on February 8, 2014 at the American Legion, Post # 3 in Montpelier. Immediately following the service, the family will host a pot luck reception.
Memorial contributions may be made to the American Legion Post #3 youth program, 21 Main Street, Montpelier, VT 05602.
Montpelier, VT - Barbara Winona Kerin
....show , 90, of Montpelier and recently of Windsor, VT, died peacefully on Wednesday, May 7, 2014 at the Cedar Hill Continuing Care Community. She was born at her family home in Montpelier, VT on October 23, 1923, where she lived her entire life, until moving to Windsor, VT at a time of declining health.
Barbara was the daughter of George P. Kerin and Winona C. Kerin. She was pre-deceased by her sister Margaret K. Couture, and three brothers, Charles P. Kerin, Jr, David M. Kerin, and Phillip M. Kerin. She is survived by several nieces and nephews and was affectionately known to many as Aunt Barb.
She was educated at St Michaels Schools in Montpelier, graduating high school in 1942. She then attended Bishop DeGoesbriand Hospital School of Nursing, graduating in 1945 and received her RN in 1946. Barbara began her nursing career as a private duty nurse, was then employed by Heaton Hospital in Montpelier, and later at the Central Vermont Medical Center in Berlin. She spent many years of her nursing career in labor and delivery units and was present for the births of many of her nieces and nephews. Much of her life was spent caring for others in a professional and a personal capacity.
Barbara was a dedicated member of St. Augustine’s parish and the Catholic Daughters. She volunteered her time in retirement with the scholarship program for the Central Vermont Hospital Axillary. Barbara was an avid walker and could be often seen walking up Main Street Hill or Berlin Hill in Montpelier to visit someone in the hospital or nursing home.
A calling hour will be held on Monday, May 12, 2014 from 9:30am to 10:30 am at Guare & Sons Funeral Home followed by a Funeral Mass at 11:00am at St. Augustine’s Catholic Church. Burial will be in Berlin Corner Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to Auxiliary Scholarship Program, Community Relations, Central Vermont Medical Center, P.O. Box 547, Barre, VT 05641
Morrisville,VT - Marie “Florida” LaCourse (Chartier)
....show , 94, died peacefully Sunday May 4, 2014, at Copley Hospital surrounded by her family after a brief illness.
Born November 12, 1919 in Beebe, Quebec, Canada, she was the daughter of Edouard and Helene (Seguin) Chartier. She moved to Vermont as small child and grew up in Barre Town where she attended local schools.
On October 30, 1937, she married Raymond LaCourse. They made their home in Berlin where she worked as a bartender/waitress for many years. After retirement, she spent the next 30 years helping to raise most of her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She resided in Morrisville for the past 12 years with her daughter, sharing a home across from Lake Lamoille where she enjoyed landscaping and watching all the activities and wildlife on the water. She was a lifetime member of the VFW Auxiliary at both of the Montpelier and Morrisville Posts as well as a member of the American Legion Auxiliary in Montpelier.
To all that knew her, “Maw” was truly the matriarch of her family of 5 generations. She was healthy and active all of her 94 years attending family events and always ready to sit down and enjoy a “cold drink” with her grandchildren. She enjoyed going for Sunday drives – driving till the age of 89, trips to ME, watching her family compete in sports and gymkhanas. She also enjoyed listening to music and watching her cowboy and Survivor shows.
She is survived by her 3 daughters, Joyce Garfield and her husband Frank, of Wildwood, FL, June Picard and her husband James, of Middlesex, Debra Utton of Morrisville. She leaves behind several grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great great-grandchildren, with whom she had a special relationship with each one of them. She also leaves behind her pets, “Remmie”, “Kat Kat”, extended family and special friends.
She was predeceased by her parents, 3 daughters and was the last surviving sibling of 10.
Maw was a very special lady to her family and she will be remembered for her feisty stubbornness and endless amount of love that she shared to the very end.
Till we meet again woman, “see ya”!
Per Maw’s request, there will be no calling hours. A graveside service and balloon release will be held at the Berlin Corners Cemetery on May 17, 2014 at 12:00, followed by a reception at the VFW post #792 in Montpelier.
Contributions in her memory may be made to the North Country Animal League or Lamoille Home Health and Hospice.
Joey M. Laquerre
....show , 17, of East Montpelier died Saturday, October 25, 2014 as a result of injuries sustained in an ATV accident.
Joey was born November 26, 1996, the son of Jeff Laquerre and Deborah (Garand) Laquerre. He grew up in East Montpelier where he attended both elementary and middle school. Joey was a senior at U-32 High School, expecting to graduate in the spring of 2015, with hopes of continuing his education in pursuit of his dream of becoming a game warden.
Growing up, many referred to him as Little Joey, a.ka. “Lil Joey.” Yet there was nothing little about his spirit, smile, hugs, accomplishments, dreams, or effect on people. Everything about Joey was big, unforgettable and impressionable, from his athletic talents to his personal impact on his friends, community and family.
Joey had many interests and passions. He loved nature and spent as much time outside as possible, participating in outdoor activities that kept him busy all seasons of the year. He was a talented and gifted athlete. He was one of those kids who could pick up any sport -- basketball, soccer, lacrosse or football -- and he excelled at everything he tried. He had a natural talent and a strong, passionate and competitive spirit. Combined, those attributes led him to a path where he was destined to thrive: auto racing.
Like many young children, his fascination with cars and motorized objects was typical. His desire and ability, however, to “feel the wheel” was uncanny and a gift. His father recognized it early on and under his guidance, aided by encouragement from his mother and brother Jarrett, the family rallied as a team to support his thirst to compete in auto racing.
His parents introduced Joey to go-kart racing as a young child and he quickly began to hone his skills as a driver. By the time he was 14 years old he had become one of the youngest drivers to sit behind the wheel of a Late Model ACT race car. In just three short years, Lil Joey and crew stood at the podium on several occasions at tracks in New Hampshire and at Thunder Road in Barre, Vt. Even though he didn’t reach adulthood, Joey had a career that many adults envy; despite his young age, Joey had raced competitively against multi-winning track champions, including a NASCAR icon.
Underneath his enthusiasm to constantly challenge his personal best was a child-like, yet mature, heart, and a young man eager to give of himself to others. His true passion was spending time with friends and family. He liked being in the presence of others, whether it was sharing breakfast together, eating mini-pizzas, sitting around a table playing cards, getting his boots muddied, or challenging friends for the sake of a challenge. He took great pride in his role as big brother to Jarrett, enjoying the bond that only brothers share and activities such as snowmobiling, riding 4-wheelers, hunting, or just jabbing at one another as brothers do. He was a sponge in life absorbing it all, and never wasted time.
Joey embraced life. When faced with curve balls, such as the loss of a mother at young age, he showed others how to prevail by allowing others in. With support from his family, grandparents, friends and communities during his own years of loss, Joey was able to take those experiences and pay it forward. He knew how to uplift others and connect with people from all walks of life. His words of encouragement, positive attitude, beaming smile and most notably his hugs, touched and impacted many.
Tragic, unbelievable, and as unimaginable as this loss is, Joey would want others to know that things happen for a reason and that life is full of many wonders and adventures to be explored.
His radiant smile will continue to shine on us all, now on the face of an angel – Lil Joey.
Joey is survived by his father, Jeff Laquerre and friend, Julie Burnor; brother, Jarrett Laquerre of East Montpelier; maternal grandparents, Richard & Ginny (Pembroke) Garand of Montpelier; paternal grandparents, Sandra Laquerre Smith of Barre; Joey Laquerre, Sr. and Pam Dunkling of East Montpelier; uncles and aunts, Rick and Yvonne Garand of Middlesex; Jay and Danielle Laquerre of Barre and Jamie Laquerre and Krissy Murphy of East Montpelier. Joey is also survived by several great uncles and aunts as well as many cousins and friends. He was pre-deceased by his mother Deborah on September 12, 2005.
Calling hours will be held on Wednesday, Oct. 29, from 6-9 p.m. at Guare & Sons/Barber& Lanier Funeral Home, 30 School Street, Montpelier.
A Funeral Mass will be offered on Thursday at 11:00 am at St. Augustine Catholic Church, 16 Barre Street, Montpelier.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to: ALS Association, NNE Chapter, The Concord Center, 10 Ferry Street, Suite 309, Concord, NH 03301.
Montpelier, VT - Jonathan Charles Larkin
....show , 46, of Berlin Street, Montpelier died unexpectedly and peacefully in his sleep at his home on September 3, 2014. Jonathan was born in Washington, D.C. on July 31, 1968, the son of Charles and Suzanne (Roberge) Larkin.
Moving to Vermont shortly after his birth Jonathan attended Saint Michael’s in Montpelier, then U-32 High School through 1986. Later earning his GED and studying Biology at Johnson State College.
For most of his adult life Jonathan was been self-employed. In more recent years he found his passion and true calling in real estate investing. It gave him incredible joy to always be on the look out for the next deal. His appetite for knowledge was veracious, he was eternally optimistic and his laugh was contagious. Jonathan lived his life with a passion and vigor that few of us are brave enough to do. He lived in the moment and was ready for anything that came his way. Getting to know and understand him might have been a challenge for some, but once he decided you were on his side, he was ferociously loyal and loving. His perspective on life and contagious zest will sorely be missed by his loved ones and friends.
Jonathan is survived by his daughter, Miranda Wigren and her partner, Kevin Kew of Stowe, VT; his partner, Heather Preis of Montpelier; parents, Charles & Suzanne Larkin of Middlesex; sister, Julie Morton, and her children of Holiday, FL, brother, Jeff & Maryanne Larkin of Duxbury. Jonathan was predeceased by a sister, Jennifer.
Calling hours will be held on Thursday, September 11th from 6-8 pm at Guare& Sons/Barber & Lanier Funeral Home, 30 School Street, Montpelier.
Memorial contribution may be made to Central Vermont Humane Society or in the spirit of Jonathan, pay it forward and do something for someone else.
Barre, VT - Evelyn L. (Fisher) Latuch
....show passed away October 30, 2014, surrounded in a roomful of love and peace, following a brief illness. She was born in Montpelier, Vermont, on June 22, 1934, daughter of Clyde A. and Edith M. (Wilkins) Fisher. Evelyn was a devoted mother, grandmother and great grandmother. Her passions were her family, cooking, and knitting. Her past employment included cooking for seniors, and she was a life member and past president of Post 792, VFW Ladies Auxiliary.
Evelyn loved Vermont apple picking season with her family and baking the perfect apple pie and apple cinnamon crisps. In the past, she enjoyed knitting for the Mitten Tree and donating her hand made items. Each new addition to her family and friends would receive handmade baby items.
Evelyn lived at Tilden House for a short time. She touched many lives, as every morning she would visit in the community room along with her dog Tucker. Evelyn celebrated her 80th birthday and we are blessed with fond memories of that day. With an apron on, sleeves up, water boiling she was at her best! Though Evelyn was elderly, she would lend a helping hand to others in need. She enjoyed her country and western music and watching her soap opera's. Her love was unconditional for all of us.
Survivors include sons, Joseph C Amaral, Jr., and his companion Kristin Wackley; Anthony C Amaral and wife Elizabeth; daughters LuAnn Brownell and companion, Steve Moore; Evelyn Amaral; and Michelle Amaral and companion, Kelley Eastman.
Evelyn was lovingly known to her grandchildren as Grandma. Her grandchildren include Tanya, Gwen, Chuck, Jason, Maria, Bobbie Jean, Ilona, Tyler, Marie and a predeceased granddaughter Jolene. She also spent time with her nine great grandchildren and was fondly referred to as GG: Alyssa, Jonathan, Kyle, Daniel, Jordan, Cheyenne, Taylor, Jaxson, and Ryker
Evelyn is now everlastingly joined her predeceased siblings, Fred Fisher, Margaret LaFountain, Shirley Mahoney, Florence Fisher, Herbert Fisher, Charles Fisher, Robert Fisher, and Clarence Fisher.
Evelyn was formerly married to predeceased husbands, Joseph C Amaral, Willard McManis, and Robert Latuch
A chapel service will be held promptly at 11:00 a.m. at the Vermont’s Veteran’s Cemetery in Randolph, VT on Thursday November 13, 2014 , with a brief graveside service to follow. A celebration of Evelyn’s life will be held at the VFW in Montpelier following the service from 1:00PM to 3:00PM. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be sent in Evelyn’s name to the Vermont Respite House, 99 Allen Brook Lane, Williston, VT 05495.
Robert Wayne Latuch
....show , 82, of the Tilton House, Barre, died on Friday, February 7, 2014 at his home.
He was born on May 5, 1931 in Burlington, the son of Robert Edson Latuch and Dora (Spaulding) Latuch.
He enlisted in the United States Army during the Korean Conflict and was stationed in Germany before being honorably discharged in 1952.
Bob worked as a self employed carpenter for many years. He also worked as a custodian for National Life and the Montpelier Public School System and he retired in 1993.
In September of 1998 he married Evelyn Fisher in Albany, VT.
He was a life member of the VFW Post #792 and a member of the American Legion Post #3.
Survivors include his wife, Evelyn Latuch of Barre, VT; son, Bobby Latuch of North Carolina; daughters, Lorrie Choiniere of Swanton, VT, Jennifer Nelson of Huntington, VT, Gail Latuch of St Albans; step children, Luann Brownell of Florida, Joseph Amaral of Barre, Evelyn Amaral of Barre, Tony Amaral of Barre, and Michelle Amaral of Barre, VT; 20 grandchildren and step grandchildren, and several great grandchildren and step grandchildren and 2 great great grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.
There will be no calling hours. A graveside service will be held in the spring at the Vermont Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Randolph, VT.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Central Vermont Home Health and Hospice, 600 Granger Road, Barre, VT 05641
John R. Lemmon
....show , 69, of East Hampton, NY died December 5, 2014 at Central Vermont Medical Center.
John was a devoted father, grandfather, and loving partner to Carrie Kessler of Corinth, VT.
Memorial service will be held in East Hampton, NY
Jeanne Claire Seguin Leno
....show , 70, of Barre Street, Montpelier and a resident of Woodridge Nursing Home died March 14, 2014 at Central Vermont Hospital.
She was born in Barre on March 21, 1943 the daughter of Paul L. & Millicent (Fleurrey) Seguin.
Jeanne attended St. Michael's Grade School and graduated from St. Michael’s High School in the class of 1960.
On April 8, 1961 she married Bernard C. Leno in St. Augustine’s Catholic Church.
Jeanne worked at National Life Insurance Company and also for Thelma Corry, CPA and she retired from the State of Vermont Agency of Transportation, Right of Way division.
She loved to knit, read, and play Bingo. Jeanne will always be remembered for her dancing days with Bernie!! She loved visiting with her family and friends.
She is survived by her Mother, Millicent of East Montpelier; five children, Michelle Dion and her husband, Mark of Berlin; Bernard C. Leno Jr., and his wife, Vanessa of East Calais; Christine Christensen and her husband, Jon of Waterville, ME; Christopher Leno and his wife, Laura of Montpelier; Crystal Lamson and her husband, Rob of Northfield; 15 grandchildren, Melissa Cadorette and her husband, Jon; Monica Dion; Whitney Leno, Amanda Leno; Nicholas Christensen; Betsy Leno, Andrew Leno, Jennifer Christensen, Tabitha-Lee Leno; Nicholas Lamson; Curtis Leno, Hailey Lamson; Megan Leno; Elyza Lamson, Autumn-Taylor Leno and 5 great-grandchildren; Riley Cadorette, Lydia Cadorette, Warren Richards, Hayden Leno and Jerimiah Leno; two sisters Gaylene Kramer and Paula Perry and many nieces and nephews.
Jeanne was pre-deceased by her husband, Bernie on Dec. 11, 2009 and her Father, Paul Seguin on April 24, 2013.
A Funeral Mass and burial will be announced at a later date in the spring.
The family wants to thank the staff at Woodridge Nursing Home for their excellent and always kind care of our Mother. We would also like to thank the nurses and staff of CVMC. They were the best!!!
Memorial contributions made be made to Woodridge Patient Activity Fund, PO Box 550, Barre, VT 05641.
Barre Town - Eleanor LePage-Gove
....show , 85, passed away January 5, 2014 at Woodridge Nursing Home.
She was born January 16, 1928 in Northfield, VT the daughter of Leo J. Bell and Dorothy (Eastman) Bell.
She married Robert LePage of Barre in 1952. They later divorced. She later married Earl Gove of Bristol, VT in 1979. Mr. Gove has predeceased her.
Eleanor was proud of her many years of service to Vermont Secretary of State, James Douglas.
She is survived by three sons: Alan LePage, Charles LePage, and John LePage; daughter, Susan McDonald and eight grandchildren, three great grandchildren all of Barre, VT
There will be no calling hours or funeral service. Memorial service will be held at a later date.
Montpelier, VT - Elizabeth May “Betty” LeRoy
....show , 82, died Sunday, March 23, 2014 in hospice care at Berlin Health & Rehabilitation Center.
She was born on October 6, 1931 in Barre, VT the daughter of the late Steven & Ann (Hamel) Mureta.
Betty attended Montpelier Public Schools and worked for many years as a housekeeper, waitress and caregiver. She loved to knit, crochet, play bingo, listen to country music and play cards and participate in activities at the nursing home where she lived.
Betty has been in poor health for several years and was a resident of Berlin Health and ReHab Center at the time of her death.
She was predeceased by two husbands, Julian Gauthier and Robert LeRoy, numerous aunts, uncles and a niece, Lynda Mureta Aldrich.
Betty is survived by one brother, Joseph Mureta and his wife, Theresa of Montpelier; sister, Mary Parke of Chillicothe, Ohio; several nieces and nephews from Berlin, Montpelier, Burlington, San Francisco, Chillicothe and a wonderful friend, Mary Gilpin.
In accordance with Betty’s wishes, there will be no calling hours or funeral service. A private graveside service will be held at the convenience of the family. Burial will be with her late husband, Robert LeRoy at the Vermont Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Randolph, VT.
The family would like to thank the staff at Berlin Health & ReHab Center where she was resident, the staff on 2 North at Central Vermont Hospital and Central Vermont Home Health & Hospice for their outstanding care and compassion.
Memorial contributions may be made in Betty’s memory to the “activity room’ at Berlin Health and ReHab Center, 98 Hospitality Drive, Barre, VT 05641 or to Central Vermont Home Health and Hospice, Inc., 600 Granger Road, Barre, VT 05641
Montpelier - Dorthea Cole Lewis
....show died peacefully in her sleep on Saturday morning, Aug. 23, 2014 at the Woodridge Nursing Home in Berlin, VT. She was 91.
Dot was born and raised on a farm in Chilhowie, Virginia. As a child she discovered arrowheads near her home and raised a sheep, using the wool to weave a blanket. As the eldest of 5 children she tried to keep everyone else out of trouble, meaning not getting caught. She excelled at school, going to Emory & Henry College at age 15 and graduating at 18. After college she worked as a chemist for DuPont in Richmond, controlling the quality of rayon used to make tires for army vehicles. She briefly moved back home to teach high school science. Then she returned to DuPont and Richmond where she met her husband, Jack Lewis. They lived in Wilmington, Delaware raising two children. While a mother and homemaker, Dot also volunteered for many community groups, including the Junior League, Meals on Wheels, and the Winterthur Museum. Widowed at age 50, she finished raising her teenage son and started a new career at Wilmington Trust Company as a trust officer. Dot enjoyed going to concerts and plays, writing poetry, and traveling. In the 1990s she moved to Connecticut to be near her daughter, and in 2010 she moved to Vermont to be cared for near her son.
Dot is predeceased by her siblings Leon Cole and Sue Yeago. She is survived by her sisters Sally Hood of Richmond, VA and Helen Campbell of Sarasota, FL and brother-in-law John Yeago of Greensville, NC, sister-in-law Betty Sue Cole of Chilhowie, VA, and aunt Edith Satterthwaite of Ashland, VA; her son, John Lewis and his wife, Allison Mann, and her grandson, Evan Lewis of Montpelier, VT; and her daughter, Martha Lewis. She is also survived by many nieces and nephews, grandnieces and nephews, and a great grandniece, and cousins.
According to Dot’s wishes her body was donated to the University of Vermont Medical School. There will be no services.
Memorial gifts in her memory can be made to the American Civil Liberties Union, Delaware Chapter, 100 West 10th St., Suite 603, Wilmington, DE 19801, or a charity of your choice.
Gertrude “Gay” Ludlow [nee Holmes]
....show , age 98, Gay Ludlow, a feisty, spirited but sweet little lady with a quick wit, died peacefully after a brief illness, at her home in East Montpelier, Vermont, on August 29, 2014.
Gay was born on December 6, 1915, in Jersey City, New Jersey, one of nine children. She often spoke of her happy childhood and her good, kind parents. She said that the family would regularly gather around the player piano after supper to sing songs together.
Gay was quite athletic in her youth, playing tennis and dancing. She was born with a serious and painful orthopedic condition and recalled being told that she would someday be wheelchair-bound. However, she didn’t let that stop her, and she continued dancing into her 80s.
She was employed as a telephone operator at Bell Telephone, a position she left to be a full-time mom and homemaker after her marriage in 1954 to Arty Ludlow. They lived happily for 20 years in Great Kills, Staten Island, New York, Arty’s home town. Gay was active in the Girl Scouts and in her local church, as well as the American Legion. After Arty retired, they moved to Lakehurst, New Jersey, where they lived for the next 30 years, doing many good deeds. They were very active in several of their local American Legion posts, with Gay holding various offices in the ladies auxiliary. As members of these groups, they helped disabled veterans and organized many charitable events. They were also active in their local Catholic church. They spent summers hosting and enjoying their grandson Collin, who says they were a rock of stability and fun in his formative years. He will be forever thankful for their love and companionship.
In 2009, after living independently until age 93, Gay moved to Vermont with Arty, to live with their daughter and her partner. Their last years were good ones. Although Gay missed Arty terribly after his death in 2011, her rapier wit and rapid one-liners remained as intact as ever. She had quite a “fan club” of folks who visited her and enjoyed her company.
Happy to have her join them in heaven are her beloved husband, Arty, her parents, Wally and Mamie Holmes, her sisters Betty, Ann, Mae, Rose, Dot and Ronnie, her brothers Tom and Walter, and a daughter who died at birth, Kathy Beth. Remembering her fondly here on earth are her daughter Maryann and her partner Donia, her much-loved grandson Collin, and many, many nieces, nephews and great-nieces and nephews who got to spend time with and enjoy Gay and Arty while they were growing up.
The family wishes to express deep appreciation to Central Vermont Hospital, Central Vermont Home Health and Hospice, and to the friends and caregivers who became Gay’s extended Vermont family, especially Peter Cairney, Deborah Packard, Sara Packard MD, Linda Birkenbach, and Lynn McClintock.
Gay will be waked from 9-11 a.m.,Saturday, September 6th, at Guare and Sons Funeral Home, 30 School St, Montpelier, with a Funeral Mass to follow at 11:30 a.m., at St Augustine Church, 16 Barre St, Montpelier.
Interment will be on Tuesday, Sept 9th, at 9:30 a.m., at Vermont Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Randolph Center, Vermont.
In lieu of flowers, please consider giving to a charity that is close to your heart.
Barre, VT - Susan Ruth Lupien
....show , 67, passed away peacefully on July 4, 2014. Susan was born in Montpelier, July 12, 1946, the daughter of Leon and Grace L. (Mosher) Lupien.
Susan moved to Brandon when she was 16 years old and returned to the Washington County area in 1970. Susan had many friends and received support through Sterling Area Services of Morrisville. She spent some of her happiest years with Linda Gringas of Barre.
Susan loved traveling, country music, singing and dining out. She enjoyed game shows, bingo and playing the penny slot machines. Her passion was spending time with her family and friends.
Susan is survived by her sisters: Elizabeth Messier of Island Pond, VT; Patricia McGrath, and Barbara Boutin, both of Graniteville, VT; Carolyn Wynne of Oceanside, CA; Sandra Moote of Orange, VT; Sara Covey of Barre, VT; Cynthia Barr of West Berlin, VT; brothers: David Lupien of Barre, VT; and George Lupien of Carney's Point, NJ. Her parents and brothers Erwin Lupien and James Lupien are deceased as well as a sister, Gloria Lupien.
A memorial graveside service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Wednesday, July 9th at Green Mount Cemetery, Lower State Street, Montpelier. A memorial reception will follow the burial at the American Legion, Post # 10 in Barre, VT.
Memorial contributions may be sent to Central Vermont Home Health & Hospice, Inc., 600 Granger Road, Barre, VT 05641
Derry, NH/ Montpelier, VT - The world lost a kind and generous soul on Friday, November 7, 2014 when Stuart Harris MacPherson
....show , 59, passed away peacefully and surrounded by the loving embrace of his family. He lived a life full of rich experiences – and while we mourn the end of his journey, those who knew him will always be proud to retell his tale marked by adventurous travel, Scottish tradition, and a full heart that was open to all those around him.
Stuart was born October 25, 1955 in Framingham, Massachusetts to Stephen and Ruth MacPherson and was brother to Douglass (VA) and Laura MacPherson (NH). After a childhood following his father on military deployments around Europe, and graduations from the University of Vermont (BSEE) and Northeastern University (MSEE),Stuart embarked on a 32 year career with defense contractor BAE Systems. Stuart set his roots in Derry, New Hampshire with his former wife of 28 years and long time good friend Laurie MacPherson, where they raised four children who love him very much: Heather (MA), Andrew (MD), Robert (Singapore), and Alexander (NC). He is also survived by the newest member of his clan: grandson Grant (MD).
Throughout his lifetime, Stuart traveled from Latin America to Asia and nearly everywhere in between - but no place, but home, was home like the MacPherson country in the Scottish Highlands. He dedicated much of his life to his passionate pursuit of preserving and sharing the Clan MacPherson’s history and tradition. Additionally, he was Membership Secretary for the Clan MacPherson Association, a 32nd degree Master Freemason, and a Knights Templar of the Scottish Military Order.
Stuart’s house was an open door and warm place for family, friends, and world travelers alike - where anyone was invited for his famous Sunday brunch or Friday night lobster and filet mignon. Along his journey, he never hesitated to give back to a world that was so generous to him through his many volunteer and charitable acts, always happy to lend a helping hand to others. Stuart was among the proudest of Scotsmen to ever live and his personal qualities and values were an inspiration. We are certain that they will be playing bag pipes in heaven to herald the return of a gracious and decent human being.
Calling hours will be held at Peabody Funeral Home in Derry, NH on November 11th from 5-8pm, followed thereafter by calling hours on November 12th 12-1pm and a memorial service from 1-2pm at Guare Funeral Home in Montpelier, VT.
In lieu of flowers, please donate to the Sonshine Soup Kitchen in Derry, NH.
Ann E. MacRitchie
....show , 82, of Hillhead Street, Montpelier died on Monday, January 6, 2014 at Central Vermont Medical Center.
She was born Jamaica Plains, MA on January 6, 1932, the daughter of Kathleen Paterson.
She attended St. Michael’s grade school and graduated from St. Michael’s High School in 1949.
She worked as an administrative assistant for Vermont Fish and Game for 20 years, then later for Vermont Liquor Control for 24 years.
On December 2, 1955 she married John MacRitchie in Barre, VT. Mr. MacRitchie predeceased her on November 13, 1981.
Survivors include her sons, William MacRitchie of Montpelier and Kenneth MacRitchie of Montpelier, and several nieces and nephews.
At her request there will be no formal calling hours or funeral service. There will be a memorial gathering for family and friend in the spring.
Claudette L. Marinelli
....show , 78, died on Saturday, February 8, 2014, at her home, in the company of her loving family.
She was born on December 26, 1935, the daughter of Albert and Fleurette Trahan, in Southbridge, MA.
She graduated from the Notre Dame High School in Southbridge, Mass, and attended Becker Junior College.
On February 9, 1957, she married Ronald J. Marinelli at the Notre Dame Church in Southbridge, MA and moved to Montpelier, VT in 1965.
Claudette joined the State of Vermont Legislative Council staff in 1966 and during her 36 year tenure performed and managed all its operations, serving all members and all committees of both chambers of the Legislature. She innovated and initiated new services and technology to facilitate legislative drafting, communications, and administrative support for the General Assembly in ways never envisioned in 1966. Her presence was a welcome and friendly support to hundreds of Vermont legislators. Claudette retired from the Legislative Council on December 31, 2002.
Claudette enjoyed traveling with her husband, family trips to Pine Point, ME, time spent with her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren, cooking at home, and the supportive community of friends at Westview Meadows and The Gary Home. She was a member of St. Augustine's Church and the Past President of the Montpelier Emblem Club.
She is survived by her two daughters, Lisa Maxfield and her husband Steve Maxfield of Barre, VT, and their daughter Ariel Duquette of Marshfield, VT; Beth Smith and her husband Ted Smith of Georgia, VT, and their daughter Laura Swanson of Candia NH; her three sons, Michael Marinelli and his wife Elise of Montpelier and their children Andrew Marinelli of Kapolei, HI, Jeff Bousquet of Worcester, VT., and Joe Bousquet of Chicago, IL; Kevin Marinelli and his wife MartieAnne and their children Ava and Caelen of Needham, MA; and Steven Marinelli and his wife Nancy of Georgia, VT, and their children Alex Marinelli of Plymouth, NH and Nick Marinelli currently serving in the United States Air Force in England.
She is also survived by her sisters, Joan Marinelli and Johanne MacDonald; and her great-grandchildren, Braydan Bousquet and Julie and Dennis Swanson.
She was predeceased by her husband Ronald Marinelli in 2012, her parents, Albert and Fleurette Trahan, her brother Frank Trahan and her grandson Scott Smith.
Per request of the family, there will be no calling hours. The family invites you to attend a funeral Mass to be celebrated at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, February 13th, at St. Augustine's Church in Montpelier, Vt.
Interment will follow at Green Mount Cemetery after the Mass and memorial reception.
In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made in her honor to Central Vermont Home Health & Hospice, 600 Granger Road, Barre, VT 05641.
She will be greatly missed by all who knew her. Her kindness, generosity and warm smile will always be remembered.
MONTPELIER - Adena August (Belville) Martin
....show , 95, formerly of 55 East State Street, passed away at Sunrise Assisted Living in Stamford, CT on October 28, 2014.
Born on November 24, 1918 in Montpelier, VT, she was the daughter of Charles and Emily (Vigeant) Belville. She attended Goddard Seminary in Barre, VT and graduated from Johnson Normal School (currently known as Johnson State College) with a B.E. in May 1945.
Adena married Howard Wesley Martin on July 24, 1951 at the Trinity United Methodist Church and lived on East State Street most of her married life. In 2009, she lived with her daughter in Stamford, CT until she moved to Sunrise Assisted Living in Stamford in 2010.
Adena was an elementary school teacher and began her career as a demonstration teacher for the State of Vermont. Her first year as a teacher in 1941 was in South Cabot, VT in a one room schoolhouse called Hookerville with 8 to 10 students in various grades. Her second year of teaching was with 35 children in 3 grades in Marshfield, VT. She then taught in Springfield, VT, where the school burned down, and then to Highham, MA before returning to Vermont where she taught in Barre and then Montpelier until her 65th year. She continued to be a member of Delta Kappa Gamma until her death. She retired to Briny Breezes in Boynton Beach, Florida in the winters where she enjoyed travel club, chorus club for their non-denominational church, water aerobics and going out to the “early birds” many evenings a week. Adena loved the warm weather and all her friends at Briny Breezes from all over the country.
Adena was also a homemaker and the best mother. She was very proud of her home on East State Street and worked hard to maintain her property and keep her tenants happy. She spent countless hours with her daughter preaching about higher education, respect for others, and the need to always be ethical.
Adena is survived by her husband, Howard Wesley Martin, and her beloved daughter, Diane Martin-Tryhane and her husband Peter Tryhane, and her grandchildren Wesley Martin Tryhane and Katie Anne Tryhane all of Stamford, CT.
Calling hours will be on Saturday, November 8th at 10 am followed by her funeral service and celebration of life at 11 am at Guare & Sons/Barber & Lanier Funeral Home, 30 School Street, Montpelier.
Contributions in her memory may be made to Delta Kappa Gamma, c/o Donna Legare, 155 Forest Drive, Unit 3, Montpelier, VT 05602 or Briny Breezes Memorial Fund, 5000 No. Ocean Blvd, Boynton Beach, FL 33435.
Montpelier, VT - George T. Matkowski
....show , 85, of Elm Street, Montpelier, died Saturday from a short illness.
He was born in Stowe on July 7, 1929 to Theodore and Emelia (Krawiecki) Matkowski and he attended Stowe High School. He married his wife Jewel (Wagstaff) Matkowski, from New Britain, CT at the Christ Episcopal Church in Montpelier on May 1, 1948.
George worked for more than 30 years for Ward Baking Company (Tip Top) as a bread salesman. Later, he worked for the Montpelier School system as a custodian at Montpelier High and as the Head of Buildings, Maintenance, and Grounds for East Montpelier School. He was a member of Christ Episcopal Church since 1948.
He was predeceased by his beloved wife Jewel in 2007. He is survived by his son Leslie and daughter-in-law Evelyn of Montpelier, his daughter Sharon and son-in-law Douglas Turner of Waitsfield, and his sister Helen Podesla of Connecticut; six grandchildren, 13 great-grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews. George touched and enriched many lives and will be greatly missed.
A memorial service will be held at Christ Episcopal Church on Dec. 4th at 1:00pm. There will be a reception after the service. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be sent to Christ Church Discretionary Fund, c/o Rev. Paul Habersang, 64 Street Street, Montpelier, VT 05602
EAST MONTPELIER - Lois R. McKnight
....show , 97, of East Montpelier, died Friday, February 4, 2011 at Woodridge Nursing Home in Berlin, Vermont.
She was born in Marshfield VT on January 13, 1914 to Fred and Ruth (Pitkin) Dwinell. At the age of two, after the death of her father, Lois and her mother moved to North Montpelier to live with her grandparents, Edwin and Bertha Pitkin.
Lois attended elementary school in East Montpelier and graduated from Montpelier High School in 1932. She married George C. McKnight on September 1, 1933, and they owned and operated a farm on Quaker Road in East Montpelier.
She was employed as a secretary-bookkeeper for Vermont Textiles in North Montpelier for six years and worked for a brief time in the Vermont Department of Motor Vehicles.
On July 1, 1947, Lois began employment in the newly created Vermont Department of Public Safety and remained for 30 years.
After retirement, Lois and George enjoyed traveling in their Winnebago and belonged to several camping clubs. They were both fond of music and over the years, enjoyed many Friday and Saturday night dances. Lois enjoyed sewing, cross stitch projects and loved her pets.
Lois is survived by her son, Melvin McKnight and his wife, Maria, of Plainfield; daughter, Joyce George and her husband Harvey, of Calais; six grandchildren; and ten great-grandchildren.
She was predeceased by her husband, George on December 26, 1979.
A graveside service will be held at a later date, which will be announced.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Vermont State Police Archives and Museum, P.O. Box 809, St. Albans VT 05478.
Arnold “Skip” Everett McNaulty
....show , 79, of Eagle Ledge Road in Worcester died on Tuesday, August 26, 2014 at the Vermont Respite House in Williston, VT with his family by his side.
He was born on July 26, 1935 the son of Gardner A. and Annie McNaulty in Middlesex, VT.
He was a veteran of the United States Army and served during the Korean War. He was honorably discharged at the end the war in 1956.
On September 11, 1960, he married Amy Wilder in Cabot, VT. Together they resided on Eagle Ledge Road for many years. Mrs. McNaulty predeceased him on January 28, 2013.
After leaving the Army, Skip worked as a truck driver for a Miles Coal Company in Barre for 35 years. He also worked for Maxham’s of Worcester, VT and later for Manosh of Morrisville.
Skip was a member of the American Legion Post #10 in Barre, VT.
He loved to help anybody that needed a helping hand and never asked for a nickel. He loved to ice fish with his brother, William until the sun went down. He also enjoyed deer hunting with his son, Raymond and other friends and relatives. Skip also had a beloved cat he called “Littleman” that was always by his side.
Survivors include a son, Raymond McNaulty of Worcester; brothers, William Merriam and his wife, Shelley of Morrisville; Harold McNaulty and his wife, Joanne of Waterbury, VT, and Francis McNaulty of Hardwick, VT; three sisters-in-law, Mona Pierce, Laura Potvain, and Beatrice McAllister; and several nieces and nephews.
He was predeceased by his siblings; Ellen, Alberta, Beverly, and Robert McNaulty.
A memorial service will be held at 11:00 am, Saturday, September 27th, at the Worcester United Methodist Church, Worcester, VT. Burial with military honors will follow the memorial service at Northfield Falls Cemetery, Route 12, Northfield Falls, VT. A memorial reception for family and friends will be held at the Worcester Church parish hall following the burial.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Vermont Hospice House, 99 Allen Brook Lane, Williston, VT 05495.
Montpelier, VT - Phyllis Walbridge McPherson
....show , 103, of Montpelier, died Wednesday, November 5, 2014 at Rowan Court in Barre.
Phyllis was born on July 26, 1911 in Wrightsville, VT, the second of nine children of Lumina (Jary) Walbridge and Guy Walbridge.
She attended St. Michael’s Elementary School in Montpelier and graduated from Cathedral High School in Burlington in 1929. Afterward, she sold tickets at the Paramount Theater in Barre and waitressed at the Barre Restaurant. Phyllis retired in the early 1970’s after working for the State of Vermont for 40 years, mostly in Social Welfare Department. In 1945, Phyllis married Wilfred “Tiff” McPherson of Marshfield. They enjoyed dancing, camping and skiing with friends on Mt. Mansfield through the early years.
Devoted to her large family, Phyllis loved being part of the gatherings and activities. There was an abundance of parties, summer trips to Number 10 Pond for reunions and travel to pray and picnic at her beloved St Anne’s Shrine in Isle LaMotte. Even in their 80’s, she and her sisters could always be found in their folding chairs at nephews’ softball games loyally rooting for the “kids.” They also enjoyed making the rounds to local plays, concerts, and chicken pie suppers all over Central Vermont.
Phyllis was very proud of being a Vermonter. Whenever she was with her daughter and family in Connecticut, she seized the opportunity to tell people, “I’m from Vermont!” After her husband died in 1972, she continued to live in her home at 43 Summer Street in Montpelier for 23 years. She could always be found there painting her porch or tending her driveway garden of black eyed susans. Phyllis loved the four seasons in VT but enjoyed the winter most of all, especially getting outside to shovel “beautiful” snow after a big storm. Even in the coldest winter weather she could be seen walking downtown for daily Mass at St. Augustine’s and shopping along the way home, filling her “Cadillac” cart with groceries and supplies.
After a debilitating stroke in 2004 and several months of healing therapy, Phyllis resided at Fortier’s Community Care Home in Barre. Eventually, still determined to live independently, she moved to an apartment at The Pioneer in Montpelier with the help of her family and caregivers from Central Vermont Home Health.
She is survived by her daughter, Sandra McGrath and her husband Donald of South Yarmouth, MA; her grandsons, Patrick McGrath of Dennisport, MA, Brian and wife Meredyth McGrath of Medford, MA; great grandchildren, Ashley, Brady, and Colin McGrath also of Medford, and many loving nieces, nephews and a special friend Jeremy.
Besides her husband, she was predeceased by her brothers, Carroll, Charles, Leroy, and Phillip Walbridge, and her sisters, Elizabeth Plude, Angela Quaranta, Beulah Lewis, and Winona Walbridge.
There will be no calling hours. A Funeral Mass will be held 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, November 13, 2014 at St. Augustine’s Church.
Contributions in her memory may be made to St Anne’s Shrine, PO Box 280, Isle La Motte, VT 05463 or to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Pl., Memphis, TN 38105-9959.
Barbara Ann Merrill
....show , 75, of Chandler Road died on June 10, 2014 at the Central Vermont Medical Center.
She was born on October 4, 1938, the daughter of Allan and Avis (Goodell) Smith. She attended elementary school at the Jones Brook School House and later graduated from Montpelier High School.
She worked as a cook and custodian for the Montpelier School System for 39 years before retiring in 2001.
She was married to Bruce Merrill in 1960. They later divorced. She then met Ken Partlow with who she has been together with for 41 years.
Barbara was a member of the First Baptist Church in Montpelier. She was also a volunteer at the Northfield Senior Center for many years. She also enjoyed playing Bingo at the Montpelier Elks Club and the Northfield Masonic Temple.
Survivors include her long time companion, Ken Partlow of West Berlin; daughter, Nancy Clark and her husband, Gary of South Woodbury; sons, Michael Merrill and his companion Beth Macaskill of Washington and Roger Merrill and his wife Kathy of Washington; 20 grandchildren and 17 great grandchildren; step children, Lori Briggs, Tim Partlow, Billy Partlow, James Partlow, Lisa Millington, and Bonnie Sanders; siblings, Arlene Manning, Betty Plante, Kenneth Smith, Richard Smith, Robert Smith, and many nieces and nephews.
She was predeceased by a daughter; Patricia Merrill; her sibling, Pauline Ruggles, Rodney Smith, Ralph Smith, Frank Smith, Earl Smith.
Calling hours will be held on Monday, June 16th from 6:00-8:00 pm at Guare & Sons/Barber & Lanier Funeral Home, 30 School Street, Montpelier, VT. A memorial service will be held 11:00 am on Tuesday, June 17th at the funeral home.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Central Vermont Humane Society, P.O. Box 687, Montpelier, VT 05601.
Montpelier, VT - John Micknick
....show , 92, of Montpelier passed away on Sunday, August 17, 2014 at his Westview Meadows home surrounded by love and friendship.
John was a person with a strong work ethic who enjoyed simple pleasures: the company of others, games of cards, "rummikub" & bocce , a good book, a delicious meal and a job well done.
He was born on September 29, 1921 in Taylor, Pennsylvania to Stephen Micknick and Mary Markovitz Micknick, immigrants from the Ukraine. He joined the Civilian Conservation Corps in his teens and was trained as a merchant seaman. When WWII commenced he joined the US Merchant Marines, delivering troops and war supplies worldwide. He proudly served our country from the first day of the war until the last and never tired of sharing his stories with family and friends.
In 1946 John married Agnes Gavaletz of Carteret, NJ. They made their home in Old Bridge, NJ where they were vegetable gardeners extraordinaire! They were married 50 years until Agnes' death in 1997.
Following WWII John worked as a boiler engineer for Standard Oil and then for Rutgers University where he maintained their heating and cooling systems for more than 25 years. After 18 years of retirement John moved to Montpelier to be near family in 2004.
A man with a quiet presence and quick smile, he made many new friends and shared much of his leisure time crafting dollhouses for charity fundraisers with his friend, Julio Lavin. He worked part-time at Real Good Toys in Barre until recently and was honored as a WCAX Super Senior!
John's legacy includes his daughters and their families: Chris & Jim Abrams of Montpelier and Linda & Scott Griffiths of Deland, FL; his grandchildren, Ela & Simeon Chapin, Corinne & Shaun Jarvis, Lindsey & Anthony Salfran and Rachel Griffiths; also his great-grand-children, Ari, Calvin, Charlotte, Ezra & Michael; and his siblings, Steve, Michael, Helen, Pauline and Joe.
His siblings, Mary, Anne, Andy, and George have passed as well. There are no calling hours. John will be buried at the Veterans' Memorial Cemetery in Arneytown, NJ on Monday, August 25, 2014. A celebration of his life will be held at Westview Meadows at a later date.
Donations in his memory may be made to Central Vermont Home Health & Hospice, 600 Granger Road, Barre, VT 05641.
Montpelier, VT - Howard William Mitchell
....show , 87, died on Tuesday, July 29, 2014, at The Pines Rehabilitation and Health Center in Lyndonville, VT.
He was born in 1926, in Philadelphia, the son of Howard Morton and Mabel Louise (Roberts) Mitchell.
He served in the United States Navy during World War II, until his honorable discharge in 1946.
Howard graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree from Columbia University, in 1956.
Howard had a successful career as a city planner, working first for the City of New York, and then in the Department of Housing and Community Development, for the state of Vermont. He had many interests, particularly enjoying classical music, especially opera, beekeeping, and gardening, and was an avid swimmer, canoeist, and cross-country skier. He was a man of great energy and many talents, exceptionally skillful in wood craftsmanship. Through his wide range of activities and accomplishments, he led a full, productive life.
He is survived by his wife, Irene Mitchell, and three children, Brian, Tara, and Sean Mitchell.
Ruth Alford Moore
....show , 84, died August 13, 2014, at Woodridge Nursing Home in Berlin, Vermont, after a long illness.
Ruth was born March 21, 1930 in Hartford, CT, the daughter of Edith Norton Alford and Alden Euclid Alford. She graduated from Windsor High School in 1948, Vermont Junior College in 1950 and The Hitchcock School of Laboratory Medicine with a degree in Medical Technology.
She married Colin Moore in Windsor, CT on October 17, 1953. Ruth was a volunteer with the Montpelier Unit of the Naval Reserve from 1949 – 1953. She was also a volunteer with the Central Vermont Chapter of The American Red Cross. She was a member of the National Society of the Daughters of The American Revolution and the Abigail Wolcott Ellsworth Chapter. In her younger years, Ruth enjoyed skiing, playing golf, bowling, and playing Bridge.
Survivors include a son, Glenn Moore, along with his wife, Priscilla Moore, of East Montpelier, VT; two daughters, Marian Moore of South Burlington, VT and Carolyn Walker, along with her husband, Wade Walker, of Williston, VT; five grandchildren and several nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her husband, Colin Moore in 1964; and two brothers, Alden Alford and Wilson Alford.
The family will receive friends at The Home of Glenn and Priscilla Moore, 1430 Horn of the Moon Rd., East Montpelier, VT on Friday August, 15 from 5-7pm. The funeral service will be held at St. Gabriel’s Windsor, CT on Monday, August 18th at 10:00 am.
Memorial contributions may be made in memory of Ruth to Woodridge Nursing Home, PO Box 550, Barre VT 05641.
Marjorie Durkee Morse
....show , died peacefully on June 16, 2014 at Berlin Health and Rehabilitation Center with her beloved family at her side. Born in Randolph, Vermont on May 23, 1928, she grew up in South
Royalton where her family owned and operated Durkee Garage for many years. She graduated from South Royalton High School in 1946, and graduated from the University of Vermont with Home Economics major in 1951. For a few years she taught Home Economics in Concord and
South Royalton, Vermont and then worked at National Life Insurance Company from 1955 to 1957.
On July 8, 1956, she married George Davis Morse in a small family
wedding and they took up residence at the Morse family home in Calais.
Marjorie became active in her new community, helping to organize a
preschool and Maple Corner Community Club events, and lead a 4-H
group. She was a member of the Adamant Methodist Church where for
many decades she helped coordinate harvest suppers and strawberry
festivals, and occasionally played piano for services. Secretary of
the Calais Historical Society, she also participated in the East
Montpelier Historical Society and Worcester Grange.
Marjorie enjoyed sewing clothes for her family, quilting, hooking
rugs, cooking, playing the violin, accordion and piano. She traveled
in the U.S., Mexico and Europe with her husband and extended family.
After George’s retirement from National Life Insurance Company in 1988
they took yearly trips, ultimately visiting every state in the
continental U.S in their Volkswagen Vanagon. She was also a member of
the Montpelier and Marshfield senior centers, especially enjoying the
Montpelier senior swim program. A regular attendee at Worcester
Meals, she enthusiastically read books from their Kellogg-Hubbard Library outreach program.
Marjorie was a dedicated wife, mother and grandmother. She was well
loved by all who knew her. Her ever-present smile and positive
attitude will be greatly missed. She is predeceased by her parents
Earle Dickerman Durkee and Cornelia Allen Durkee. Survivors include
her husband, George Davis Morse, daughters Laura Morse of Berlin and
Cynthia Gardner-Morse and her husband, Mack Gardner-Morse, of Calais,
grandchildren Ira George Gardner-Morse, Eliza Rose Gardner-Morse, and
John Isaac Gardner-Morse, and numerous other family members.
In lieu of flowers, Marjorie's family requests that donations be made to the local charity of your choosing.
A memorial service will be held in her honor at 2:00 PM, Saturday, June 21, 2014 at the Old West Church in Calais.
Montpelier – Helen Anastasia Corry Murray
....show , 93, a resident of Heaton Woods and formerly of 282 Main Street, Montpelier, passed away January 1, 2014 at Central Vermont Medical Center in the presence of many family members.
Helen was born at home in Middlesex, VT on January 28, 1920. She was the daughter of Charles C. and Lena (Crossett) Corry. Helen grew up on the Corry Farm (now Bolduc's Salvage). Helen graduated from Montpelier High School in 1937. Helen moved with her widowed mother to Montpelier in 1939.
After high school Helen went to work at McCullan’s Department Store for a short while and then National Life Insurance Company. She then went to work at the State Cigarette and Beverage Division of the Tax Department, where the City Center is now located. Helen met her husband Sherwood Calvin Murray at the First Baptist Church in Montpelier. They were married on Columbus Day, October 12, 1940.
Helen stayed at home after she married and raised their three children, Sylvia E., Raymond S. and Stanley A. Murray. Helen and her husband spent many years farming Cityside Farm. That now is called Murray Hill. She returned to work in 1966 for the Social Welfare Division of the State.
Helen joined her husband in retirement in 1979. Helen and Sherwood enjoyed many extensive trips to Texas, Alaska, and Canada, seeing 49 states. Camping was a favorite past time. Helen also enjoyed visiting Japan in 1981, visiting her son Stanley and family for six weeks. Mrs. Murray and husband were members of the 251 Club visiting all of the Towns, Cities and Gores of Vermont. Helen was very active in their church and with family. Other hobbies included knitting, quilting and reading.
Helen had a green thumb and enjoyed flower and vegetable gardening. She was an extrodinary role model for many as a kind, strong Christian who lived what she believed. She was an active member of the First Baptist Church in Montpelier for 63 years serving on many committees and in the Sunday School ministry to children. She also was known for preparing wonderful home-cooked meals and hosting many guests in her home. Helen was proud to win a cooking competition as a young teen.
Helen was predeceased by her parents, and her sisters, Winona Kerin and Margaret (Peg) Sibley. Her eldest son, Raymond died in 1997. Helen's husband of 57 years, Sherwood died in 1998.
Helen is survived by her daughter Sylvia E. Murray of Berlin, VT, and her son Stanley A. and wife Martha B. Murray of Royersford, PA. She also leaves her daughter-in-law, Cheryl Grout Murray of Frisco, TX. Helen was most proud of her eight grandchildren--Kelley Wilkinson of Frisco, TX, Michelle (Mici) Wilkerson living in the U.K., Erin Sprouse in Lee’s Summit, MO, and Krista Murray of Frisco, TX. Also Christopher Murray, Royersford , PA, Timothy Murray-Miyamoto of Honolulu, HI, Sarah Murray of Royersford, PA and Katherine (Kate) Shannon of Wilmington, NC plus 18 great grandchildren. Five of her grandchildren have spouses.
In the Montpelier area and further Helen was a favorite aunt to many nieces and nephews, and their children and grandchildren. Brother in law Roger W. Murray of Amarillo, TX will also miss Helen.
Calling hours will be at First Baptist Church in Montpelier on February 17, 2014 from 12:30-2:00 pm. A memorial service will follow at 2:00 then a reception for all guests on the lower level.
In lieu of flowers please consider donating to the First Baptist Church, Montpelier, VT or Heaton Woods, Activity Fund, 10 Heaton Street, Montpelier, VT.
Douglas Harold Nicholson
....show , 59, of Montpelier died unexpectedly Saturday, March 15, 2014.
He was born on February 16, 1955 in Montpelier, the son of Harold Glenn & Laura Mae (Savage) Nicholson. He attended schools in Montpelier and graduated from Montpelier High School in 1973. After graduation, he enlisted in the United States Army.
He married Corine Atwood on June 19, 1993 at the Trinity United Methodist Church.
Doug owned and operated O.J. Country Store and Gas Station in Orange; and later he and Doug Roberts owned A.C.V. Adjustments. He also was an Adjuster for Nationwide Insurance Company. Doug later worked at South Main Auto Body Shop in St. Johnsbury and went on to be the Manager of the Service Department at Courtesy Toyota in Berlin. Most recently he worked as a rural mail carrier for the U.S. Post Office out of Montpelier.
He was a member of the National Rifle Association, SASS- Single Action Shooting Society and was an avid NASCAR fan. Doug was a devoted husband, father and grandfather who always put his family first.
Survivors include his father, Glenn Nicholson of Montpelier; his wife, Corine; sons, Richard Nicholson and wife, Cheryl of Royersford, PA; Alexander Nicholson and his partner, Meredith Andrews of Plainfield; daughters Betsy McHugh and fiancé, Matthew Dall of Colchester; and Molly McHugh of Essex; his beloved grandchildren, Gabby McHugh, Ryan and Chase Nicholson; sisters, Patricia Whitney and companion, Basil of Derby: Marjory Magoon of Barre Town; Frederick Nicholson and his wife, Maryanne of Rutland Town, and Steven Nicholson of Shrewsbury; as well as many nieces and nephews and his beloved dog Biskit.
Doug was predeceased by his mother, Mae Nicholson on April 27, 2012.
The Douglas Nicholson Memorial Fund has been established to benefit the family. Donations can be sent to North Country Federal Credit at 39 Lower Mountain View Drive, Colchester, VT 05446.
Calling hours will be Wednesday, March 19th, from 5-8 pm at Guare & Sons Funeral Home, 30 School Street, Montpelier.
A Memorial Service will be held Thursday at 11:00 am at The Masonic Center, Gallison Hill, Montpelier.
Delvina D. Peake
....show , 95, of River Road in Moretown, died on Sunday, June 8, 2014 at the Woodridge Nursing Home while undergoing rehabilitation for a recent leg injury.
She was born on November 10, 1918, the daughter of Frank and Rose (Baker) Santor. She attended the old Jones Brook School of Moretown and later graduated from Montpelier High School.
On June 14, 1941, she married Adrian Peake at St. Augustine’s Church in Montpelier, Vermont. They made their home in Moretown until Mr. Peake was called to serve in World War II and subsequently killed in action on February 8, 1945.
Mrs. Peake was employed in Montpelier at several chains stores for many years but mainly worked at the family homestead. When her parents passed on she built a new home on the property where she devoted most of her life caring for either family members who needed a temporary home or for numerous children that she provided daycare for working parents. This became her greatest joy and a great joy to the children as well.
She enjoyed working in her garden, bird watching, cooking and trying lots of new recipes, sewing, and spending time with family and friends. She loved the big family gatherings at special times of the year when everyone could join in and was always ready for a good time. Her home was open to all and everyone was welcomed at her door.
Although she had no children of her own she took in two very young boys and raised them as her own, both of whom proudly call her mom.
She was a devoted member of St. Augustine’s Catholic Church for over seventy years rarely missing a Sunday service until transportation became an issue in later years.
Survivors include her “sons”, Lawrence (Larry) Dodge and his wife Bonnie (Pollander) of East Montpelier, Vermont; Richard Dodge and his wife Margaret (Sanders) of Northfield, Vermont; and a sister, Anna Bell Dodge of Webster, NH; a brother-in-law, Ervin A. Dodge of Moretown, Vermont; Grand Children, Christopher E. Dodge and his wife Kristin (Fontain) of Barre Town, Vermont; Larissa (Dodge) Bailey and her husband Glenn of Starksboro, Vermont; Teri Dodge and partner Suzanne DeLong of East Burke, Vermont; Great Granddaughter Alexis Dodge; and numerous nieces and nephews.
Delvina was predeceased by her siblings, Adeline, Eva, Dorothy, Marshall, Everett, Fredrick, Chesney, Maybell, Virginia, Harland, Eleanor and Genevieve.
Calling hours will be held on Friday, June 13, 2014 from 6:00 to 8:00 pm at Guare and Sons/Barber & Lanier Funeral Home in Montpelier, Vermont.
A Funeral Mass will be offered at 10:00 am, Saturday, June 14, 2014 at St. Augustine’s Catholic Church located at 16 Barre Street in Montpelier.
Memorial contributions may be made in her memory to St. Augustine’s Catholic Church.
John M. “Jack” Pecue
....show , 78, of Pioneer Apartments, Montpelier died Saturday, June 7, 2014 at Woodridge Nursing Home.
He was born August 29, 1935 in Montpelier, VT the son of Floyd B. Pecue and Eleanor (Niles) Pecue. Jack attended Montpelier Public Schools and graduated from Montpelier High School in 1954.
Following graduation from high school, Jack entered the US Navy on November 12, 1954 and spent most of his time in the Navy aboard the aircraft carrier USS Bennington visiting ports in South America but mostly throughout the Pacific. He was discharged on November 10, 1958.
He was employed at National Life Insurance Company for 32 years and worked in the record center and mailroom. Jack retired in 1990. He enjoyed spending many years at the family hunting camp in Moretown where he would get together with family and friends throughout the year.
Jack was married in 1967 to Cathryn Leete in South Ryegate, VT.
He is survived by his daughter, Carrie Pecue Ducharme of Barre Town, VT; grandson, Ty Ducharme; granddaughter, Jayme Ducharme of Williamstown, VT; son, Shawn S. Pecue and granddaughter, Rebekah Shatney of East Calais, VT; brother, Thomas Pecue and his wife, Joyce of Venice, Florida; two nephews, Michael & Gregory Pecue and a niece, Mary Page; and several cousins.
Family services with military honors will be held privately. Burial will be in the family lot in Berlin Corners Cemetery.
Memorial contributions may be made to Woodridge Nursing Home, Activity Fund, PO Box 550, Barre, VT 05641.
Montpelier, VT - Charles Arthur Perry
....show , 82, died on Sunday, November 23 at Central Vermont Medical Center. He was the son of Charles and Madeline (Allen) Perry.
Survivors include his partner of nearly thirty years, Jeanne Richardson, his former wife, Jennifer Trombley, daughter, Brooke Perry Slama, son, Langdon Perry and four grandchildren. He also leaves Jeanne’s son, Eric Ladd and his partner, Lynn Choquette and his good friend, Jane Osgatharp. Charles had many friends in Vermont, Florida and Mexico where he resided in the winter.
There will be a memorial service at the Vermont Veterans Cemetery in the spring. An announcement will be made at that time.
Charles, you were one of a kind and we loved you for it and will truly miss you.
Montpelier - Dulcina Ada Perry
....show , 100, formerly of Mechanic Street, Lane Shop Apts., Montpelier and Fortier’s Community Care Home in Barre died Tuesday, April 15, 2014 at Berlin Health & ReHab Center.
She was born in Berlin, Vermont on October 12, 1913 the daughter of Daniel A. & Edith Maude (Crossett) Perry. Dulcina attended Montpelier Public Schools and graduated from Montpelier High School in 1931. She later received a degree in nurse’s training from Mary Fletcher School of Nursing in 1935.
Dulcina had a life time career in nursing including private duty nursing and was the Director of Nursing at Barre City Hospital, Heaton Hospital and Berlin Convalescent Center. She was a member of the Mary Fletcher Nursing Association and the First Baptist Church.
Dulcina was always ready to care for family members that needed her including attending the birth of many of her nieces and nephews.
She enjoyed going to the family camp at Caspian lake in Greensboro, traveling to the Maine seacoast and to Florida, doing many crafts and playing Scrabble.
She is survived only by her nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her siblings, Beatrix Kendall, Marjorie Crandall, Grace Hodgdon, Elizabeth Sherman, Lois Hodgdon, Morris Perry, Cortland Perry and Harold Perry.
In accordance with Dulcina’s wishes, her body will be donated to UVM College of Medicine.
Memorial service will be held at 2:00 PM, Sunday, April 27, 2014 at the First Baptist Church, School & St. Paul Street, Montpelier.
Burial will be at a later time in Green Mount Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers donations can be made to the First Baptist Church, 2 St. Paul Street, Montpelier, VT 05602; or to the activity fund at Berlin Health and Rehab Center, 98 Hospitality Lane, Barre, VT 05641
BARRE TOWN - Marilyn B. Perry
....show , 86, of Barre Town passed away May 7th 2014 at her home on Phelps Road. She was the wife of the late Walter J. Perry who predeceased her in 1994.
Marilyn was born July 1, 1927 in Sheldon Springs, VT. She was the daughter of Harold and Alice (Bean) Breer. She later moved to East Montpelier with her family where she attended East Montpelier Schools and enjoyed her life on the family farm.
She enjoyed spending time with her children, grandchildren, great grandchildren, her sister, and her many nieces and nephews. She especially enjoyed making her "delicious chocolate chip cookies and fudge" for family, their friends and family gatherings as well as gardening and watching the Red Sox.
She is survived by her son, Bruce L. Perry (Moose) and his wife Bonnie, her daughter, Bonnie L. Sibley and her husband Jeff. She is also survived by four grandsons Bryan Perry, Keith Perry, Scott Sibley and his wife Jodi, Eric Sibley and his significant other Nina Mirabile, three great grandchildren Leland Perry, Colby Brochu and Katelyn Sibley, her sister Beverly Bagalio and her husband Peter, sisters-in-law Kathryn Breer and Betty Breer and her beloved granddog and companion Oskar.
She was predeceased by her parents, her husband Walter J. Perry; four brothers, Clifford Breer; George Breer; Wilbur (Pete) Breer and Wayne Breer; sisters, Evelyn Long and Shirley Wright as well as two sisters that died at birth.
A graveside service will be held Saturday, May 10th at 9 A.M. at the Plain-Mont Cemetery in Plainfield, followed by a get-to-gether to remember her life with family and friends at the Sibley Farm, 350 Sibley Road, East Montpelier.
Memorial contributions may be made to Central Vermont Home Health and Hospice, 600 Granger Road, Barre, VT 05641
Loren James Lee Rivers
....show , a longtime Montpelier resident, passed away peacefully at his home on Saturday, July 26 at the age of 86.
He is survived by his four children; Loren Rivers of Honolulu, Mary Rivers of New York City, Tom Rivers of Oakland, California, and Carol Rivers-Ibrahim of Houston, Texas. He is survived by six grandchildren; James and Patrick Rivers, Ghazi and Tariq Ibrahim, Stephen and Agatha Nyarko.
Jim Rivers was born on December 3, 1927 in Glens Falls, New York to Loren Rivers and Marion (Lee) Rivers. He attended Glens Falls Catholic schools. He was a US Marine, stationed in Guam during the post-war years. After returning to civilian life he attended Cornell University, graduating from Cornell Law School in 1955.
In 1962, Jim and his wife Claire moved to Montpelier, where James worked for National Life of Vermont for 30 years, until his retirement in 1992. James was very active in St. Augustine's parish, where he served as lector and as a catechist for St. Augustine's RCIA program. He was an avid gardener and lover of history. He was also a volunteer for a number of local charities and organizations. He served on the Vermont Board of Mental Health for many years and very involved in the local food pantry.
Calling hours will be held on Thursday, July 31st from 6-8 pm at Guare & Sons/Barber&Lanier Funeral Home, 30 School Street, Montpelier. A Funeral Mass will be offered on Friday at 3:00 pm at St. Augustine Catholic Church, 16 Barre Street, Montpelier. A Memorial reception will follow the Mass in the Parish Hall. The burial will be held privately for family members at Green Mount Cemetery, Montpelier.
Memorial contributions may be made to Montpelier Food Pantry, 137 Main Street, Montpelier, VT 05602.
Mary Babic Roberts
....show , 99, formerly of 4 College Street, Montpelier, died on Wednesday, October 1, 2014 at the Woodridge Nursing Home.
She was born on August 14, 1915, the daughter of Rudolph and Maria (Zaridich) Babic. She attended Montpelier Public Schools and graduated from Montpelier High School in 1933. Mary then worked for the Vermont Department of Unemployment. Mary choose her home and family as her most cherished occupation.
On May 3, 1947, she married Don Roberts in St. Augustine Church in Montpelier. Don predeceased her on July 2, 2013.
She was a member of St. Augustine’s Catholic Church and the Montpelier Senior Citizen Center. Mary received a “War Service Certificate” as a Patriotic Volunteer for the State of Vermont. She was a founding member, along with Mona Johnson, of the Central Vermont Hospital’s Benefit Shop. She volunteered as a ballot clerk at Montpelier City Hall and she belonged to several Bridge Clubs.
Survivors include her daughters: Jane Desilets and her husband, Bruce of East Longmeadow, MA; Patricia Pierce and husband Robert of Montpelier; three granddaughters, Karen Desilets, Christine Pelto and Karlyn Carrien; three grandsons, Robert Desilets, Daniel Desilets, and Brett Pierce; and 10 great grandchildren; Delani, Halle and Natalie Raina, Savanna Desilets, Payton and Dylan Pelto, Nolan and Logan Carrien and Michael and Frank Desilets. Mary has several nieces and nephews: Linda Witkowski, Carol Mangano, Karen Luchese, Louis Babic, Jr., John Babic and Thomas Ford.
She was predeceased by her brothers Louis Babic and Charles Babic and sisters Emma Ford, Molly Babic and Lydia Gage.
At Mary’s request there will be no visiting hours. A Celebration of her life will be held at 11:00 am on Saturday, October 4, 2014 at the Guare & Sons Funeral Home.
In Mary’s memory, contributions may be made to Heaton Woods, 10 Heaton Street, Montpelier, VT 05602
Norman D. “Jerry” Roberts
....show , 79 of Colonial Drive Montpelier, passed away peacefully after a lengthy illness, March 23, 2014 with family at his side at the Central Vermont Hospital. Norman was born October 27, 1934, the son of Francis B. and Barbara Grace (Powers) Roberts of Manchester, New Hampshire. He attended schools in Manchester, NH. Joining the United Sates Coast Guard where he served overseas during the Korean War between 1952 and 1956.
Jerry married Elaine Plummer in Center Harbor, New Hampshire on June 8, 1957 and continued his education graduating from the University of New Hampshire in 1960.
Norman was actively employed as a claims adjuster/investigator for various insurance companies and as a licensed private investigator in both the public and private sector, including being President of Verity Research, Ltd. in Montpelier, and VP of C-R Associates, Inc. also in Montpelier. Jerry ended his lengthy career working for Vermont Mutual Insurance Company between 1985 and 1999 where he retired as the company’s General Adjuster.
Norman was a member of the Aurora Lodge No. 22, F. & A.M. in Montpelier; American Legion Post No. 3; National Rifle Association; Capital Rifle and Pistol Club, Inc.; Life Member of Vermont State Rifle and Pistol Association; International Association of Arson Investigator; Past President, Vermont Insurance Fieldman’s Association, and former Director Vermont Fire Service Training Council.
Jerry is survived by his wife Elaine of Montpelier; two sons, Kenneth Roberts and his wife Judith of Montpelier; Scott Roberts and his wife Susan, of Berlin, VT; three grandchildren, Katelyn, Allison and Spencer, and one great grandchild Cameryn; his sister Delores Haropulos of Manchester NH; three nieces Alexandra Haropulos, Laurel Bailey, Althea Haropulos and one nephew Jason Haropulos.
A Funeral service and Masonic Memorial Service will be held at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, March 29th at Guare & Sons/Barber & Lanier Funeral Home in Montpelier. There will be no calling hours.
Memorial contributions may be made to Shriners Hospital for Children
Berlin, VT - Jesus Ignacio Ruiz
....show died of natural causes in his home on Friday, March 7, 2014.
His ambition was to create happiness through good food and he fulfilled this passion by cooking for family, friends, and patrons of the Black Door and River Run restaurants. His most recent source of delight was as a volunteer at Feast, in the kitchen at the Montpelier Senior Center.
Surviving Ignacio are his cherished family, Amy, Ellie and Eneko Farr; his parents Alicia Reyes Andrade and Ignacio Soler; his grandfather Marcos Reyes Andrade, his aunt Ana Elena Reyes, his twin Emilia Ruiz and her sons Alex and Kai; his brother Willem Ruiz and his wife Andre Sanchez; his brother Ignacio Soler and his wife Maki Abe and their sons Hiroki and Kouske; his sister Ines Soler and her husband Pepon and their children Juan, Lucia, and Carmen; his brother Pablo Soler and his wife Carol. He was predeceased by his sister Ysabel Ruiz and his grandmother Nelly Blanco Yepes. His Vermont family include Charlie and Kathleen Pelletier, Christine Hartman and Jennifer Pelletier.
Calling hours will be at the Guare Funeral Home in Montpelier on Wednesday, March 12 from 5-7 pm.
In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Just Basics, Inc.; 58 Barre Street, Montpelier, VT 05602.
Montpelier, VT - Wolfe W. Schmokel
....show , 81, of Montpelier,VT died on Thursday, September 25, 2014 at his home.
He was born in Waldenburg, Germany, on July 25, 1933, the son of Gunther and Charlotte (Gramm) Schmokel.
Wolfe attended his primary and secondary schools in Germany, and came to the United States as an exchange student. Upon his graduation, he enlisted in the US Army and completed work towards a BA while serving overseas through a University of Maryland program. After his service was over, he enrolled at Yale University where he went on to receive a Master’s degree and Ph.D. in history with specific concentrations in African and Modern German history. Eventually his academic experience led him to the University of Vermont where he served as a professor of History from 1962 until retirement in 1989.
It is at Yale that he met his first wife, Varian Douglas. They married in 1958 and divorced in 1982. They had 4 children together. In 1984, Wolfe married Kay Barbour of South Burlington, Vermont.
Wolfe was never one to lead a sedentary lifestyle and kept his life full with various volunteer work, travel, friends and family. He was an active member of the various churches he attended throughout his life including Ascension Lutheran of S. Burlington , VT and All Saints Episcopal in Wolfeboro, NH. Most recently, he was a member of the Christ Church in Montpelier. Some of the volunteer activities he participated in included guardian ad litem work, Meals on Wheels and a driving for those who needed transportation to medical services. Being an active member and giving back to the community were of the utmost importance to Wolfe. He touched many lives through his wish to help others.
Survivors include his wife, Kay Schmokel of Shelburne, VT daughter, Clarissa Adams and her husband Krister of Waterbury, VT; son, Marcus Schmokel and his wife, Mary, of Canton, GA, along with son, Frederick Schmokel and his wife Kathy, of Alexandria, VA. Grandchildren include Sydney Adams, Gwen Cole, Alex Schmokel, Erik and Kurt Schmokel and Gareth and Kyle Trevor along with 3 great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his former daughter in law, Sarah McAllister as well as step-children, Keith and Shelley Barbour.
He was recently predeceased by his daughter, Sylvia Trevor of Stowe, VT.
There will be no calling hours. A memorial service will be held at 4:30 p.m. on Friday, October 3, 2014 at the Christ Church in Montpelier.
Memorial contributions may be made to Green Mountain United Way, 963 Paine Turnpike N #2, Montpelier, VT 05602-9163.
Stanley Rupert Scribner
....show , 80, of River Road, Moretown passed away Wednesday evening, July 9, 2014 at home.
A Memorial Service will be held at 12:30 pm, Saturday, July 12th at the Middlesex United Methodist Church. A reception will follow the service.
Stanley grew up on a farm in Johnson. At 10 years of age the family moved to Bridport to continue farming. In 1955 him and his wife Catherine began their life together on a farm in Waterbury Center. In 1958 they moved to Moretown to continue farming and raise their family. His family, cows and his crops were his pride and joy.
He is survived by his wife, Catherine; his children, Stanley Scribner Jr. of Middlesex; Stephen Scribner of Middlesex; Mary Jo Davis of Moretown; and Edward Scribner of Alaska; as well as many grandchildren and great grandchildren; nieces, nephews, cousins and his herd of Holsteins. He is also survived by his brother Reginald Scribner and his wife, Marjorie of West Rutland; and a sister, Audrey Marshia and her husband, Stanley of Morrisville.
He was predeceased by his brother, Roger Scribner.
In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to Middlesex United Methodist Church, 10 Church Street, Middlesex, VT 05602.
Moretown, VT - Bernard “Raymond” Seguin
....show , 98, of Moretown, VT died Friday, October 17, 2014 at Central Vermont Hospital in Berlin after a long and full life.
Raymond was born in Montpelier, February 11, 1916, the son of prominent businessman Edward T and Louise Savard Seguin (Crown Point, NY). His mother died suddenly in 1923 when he was 7 years old. In 1926, his father remarried to Florence Ryle of Montpelier, becoming Ray's stepmother. Raymond was the youngest and only surviving of 5 children: Doris (William) Clarke, Frederick T (Kathleen Theriault), Louise (Stanley Nadolski), and Sister Margaret of the Dominican Life.
Raymond lived in Montpelier until his retirement in 1970, when he moved to Moretown.
He attended St. Michael's High School, where he played basketball and also joined the Montpelier Band playing the clarinet. He then attended North Hampton Business School in Massachussetts for a year, then Penn State University for a year, before transferring to the University of Notre Dame, where he continued his band activities, graduating in 1940.
He then returned to Montpelier, to work in his father's gasoline and heating oil business.
In 1941, he married Verna Helen Conrad from Moretown, daughter of William Conrad and Cora Eaton.
In 1942, he enlisted in the United States Army Air Corps (USAAC) , becoming a B-25 bomber pilot. In 1944, shortly after arriving in Corsica, Italy, Raymond was wounded during a night air raid by the Germans. He served the remainder of the war as a pilot trainer.
Following the war, Ray returned to Montpelier and resumed working with his brother Fred in their dad's business.
In 1960, when the company businesses were sold, Ray began a new fuel oil company, "Seguin Heating Oils", which he ran until his retirement, selling the business at this time.
During his business years, Ray was very active in the community, and as a member of the Kiwanis club, was active in the annual auctions and horse shows. In 1959, Ray was elected president of the Kiwanis club.
Ray and Verna raised 4 children in Montpelier, Ward (Eileen) Etowah, NC; Stephanie Venema (Tom Allen), Moretown; William (Cathy), Fairfax, VA; Mark (Gwen), Alpharetta, GA.
His family includes 7 grandchildren, and 16 great grandchildren, nieces and nephews in the States of California, Delaware, Florida, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, North Carolina, Ohio, Texas, and Vermont, In his retirement years, he has served as fence keeper for the town of Moretown, back up chauffeur, altar server and usher at St. Patrick’s Church in Moretown, supporter and contributor to the Waitsfield Seniors Center, and volunteer for Meals on Wheels.
He loved his time maintaining his land including mowing his own 2 acre lawn up until July 3 of this year. He was a very positive person, having purchased his newest “zero radius” riding lawn mower, just two seasons ago. He also adored and enjoyed the company of his two cats, Artie and Blackie, as well as many others before them.
He will be sadly missed by all who knew and loved him.
A Funeral Mass will be offered at 11:00 am on Thursday, Oct. 23rd at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Moretown. Burial will follow the Mass at Irasville Cemetery. There will be no calling hours.
Memorial contributions may be sent to Central Vermont Home Health & Hospice, Inc., 600 Granger Road, Barre, VT 05641
Marilyn R. Senter
....show , 78, passed away on July 29, 2014 from complications of Alzheimer’s. She passed in the comfort of her home with her family present.
She was born in Barre, VT on July 16, 1936 to Alfred and Isabel Rowe. She grew up and attended schools in Chelsea, VT.
She started employment at National Life Insurance Company on State Street in Montpelier, working in the Actuary department. Later she was co-office manager in the Pension department. She retired after 32 years as a Pension Facilitator. After her retirement she started Ann’s Antiques and bought and sold antiques in Maine and Vermont.
She married Bradley Senter in 1957. They have one son, Timothy Senter; and two grandchildren, Zachary and McKenzie Senter of NY. Her siblings are Marjory Morrill, Robert Rowe, Marlene Adams, and Martha Lamonda.
She was predeceased by her brother, Stuart Rowe.
She loved going to the Brimfield Antique Shows and Antiques Auctions. She and her husband enjoyed back packing many miles on the Long Trail and the Appalachian Trails. After camping for many years on the Maine Coast, the couple bought a seasonal place on Wells Harbor, and spent 18 years enjoying it.
Her Golden Retrievers gave her great pleasure over the years, including her present Golden “Zeb”
The family wishes to thank the personnel, RN’s, and the LNA’s of The Central Vermont Home Health for the wonderful care they gave.
A memorial service will be held at the First Congregational Church of Berlin, Saturday, August 9, 2014 at 11:00 am. Interment will follow the service at the Berlin Corners Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers contributions in her name can be made to the Central Vermont Home Health & Hospice, Inc., 600 Granger Road, Barre, VT 05641
Montpelier, VT - Donald O. Sessions
....show , 96, passed away February 21, 2014 in Virginia. He was the son of Gladys Standish and Ira O. Sessions who resided in and around Newport, Vt. their entire lives.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Gloria Cecchini Sessions. Also deceased are his brother Ralph and his sister Kaye Coffin.
He attended high school in Newport and graduated from Bentley College in Boston Massachusetts. After four plus years in the Army Air Corps during World War II, he began work for the New England Telephone Company and retired in 1978 after 32 years. Upon the death of his wife in 2008 he moved to Stafford, Virginia to live with his daughter and her husband.
He is survived by his daughter, Sylvia S. Zimmerman; her husband George W. Zimmerman; and nieces and nephews on both sides of the family.
Arrangements are being handled by Covenant Funeral Services in Stafford, Virginia and Guare and Sons in Montpelier, Vermont.
Burial will be in the summer at Hope Cemetery in Barre.
Waitsfield, VT - Robert Shaffer
....show , age 67, passed away peacefully in his home in Waitsfield, Vermont on December 27, 2014.
He was the loving husband of Candice Shaffer; proud father of his children Katie Kenney (Shaffer), John Shaffer, Meredith Rulli (Adams), and Chelsey Adams; and Grandpop to Cody Kenney, Kolten Kenney, Kayla Shaffer, and Anabelle Shaffer. He was predeceased by his parents Bertram Shaffer and Betty Shaffer, and his sister, Diane Shaffer.
He spent the majority of his career as a practicing Real Estate and Tax Attorney in Chester County, Pennsylvania.
Bob was adventurous, loved to travel, and had an immense thirst for knowledge.
In lieu of flowers, a donation in Bob’s memory can be made to the organizations that meant so much to him, including Vermonters for a Clean Environment and Keeping Track. The owner’s manual of life says, “If you want to learn about the world, go out in it.”
Roger E. Sherman
....show , 84, of Putnam Road, passed away Tuesday, April 22, 2014 at the Central Vermont Medical Center in Berlin.
Born on January 26, 1930 in Montpelier, he was the son of Elton A. and May (Freeman) Sherman. He was a 1949 graduate of Montpelier High School.
Roger served in the United States Navy from 1951 to 1955. He was a Korean War Veteran who saw active service aboard the destroyer, USS Wren.
Prior to his military service, he was employed at Green Mountain Power Electric Company. After his return, he continued to work for GMP for a total of 43 years.
On June 15, 1957, Roger married Anne Vigneault of Barre, VT. They made their home in East Montpelier in a house that he constructed with his father and friends. Roger and Anne were married for 56 years.
Roger was a life member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars as well as a life member of the Montpelier Benevolent Protectorate of Elks. He served East Montpelier as Town Deputy Sheriff from 1989-1990. He also enjoyed hunting and was an avid reader.
He is survived by his wife, Anne V. Sherman of East Montpelier; two sons, Joey Sherman and his wife, Yukie, of Mission Viejo, California and Todd Sherman and his wife, Rochelle, of Cape Coral, FL; daughter Heidi Tucci and her husband, Michael, of LaGrangeville, NY; seven grandchildren, Katrina Sherman, Zachary Sherman, Gianna Tucci, Anneliese Tucci, Neil Tucci, William Sherman, and Sam Sherman; a brother, Roderic A. Sherman and his wife, Martha, of Florida: and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Besides his parents, he was predeceased by his brother, Robert H. Sherman of Wisconsin.
Calling hours will be held from Noon on Monday, April 28th until the start of the funeral service which will begin at 1:00 pm at Guare & Sons/Barber & Lanier Funeral Home. Immediately following the funeral service, military honors will be held at the Plain-Mont Cemetery in East Montpelier.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the East Montpelier Ambulance Service, P.O. Box 146, East Montpelier, VT 05651.
Groton, VT - Lois L. Smith
....show , 80, of Groton, VT passed away peacefully on December 28th at Rowan Court Nursing Home. She was born in Montpelier, VT on January 16, 1934, the daughter of Perley A. Leslie and Glenys Colt.
After graduating from Montpelier High School in 1951 Lois was employed at National Life Insurance Company. She married Merle B. Smith and later became a parent and a full time homemaker. She was active in 4-H cooking, teaching several days a week for 10 years. She also served as Treasurer of Plainfield United Methodist Church and Co- Treasurer of Cutler Memorial Library.
Some of Lois’s happiest times were serving the many and varied residents of Plainfield as their Town Clerk – an elected position which she held twenty-three years before retiring to Lake Groton. As the Town Clerk, people would come to Lois for happy reasons, such as getting marriage, hunting and fishing licenses, registering to vote, or reporting large game taken during Vermont’s hunting seasons.
Lois loved family camping at Stillwater Campground in Groton State Forest. She would move her family into the campground as soon as the Twinfield schools were closed, and the family would spend the entire summer in the campground, returning home the night before school opened for the following school year. Even the birth of an infant (Dana) couldn’t keep Lois from camping the entire summer. Lois and her husband also had an affinity for Jitterbug dancing and they became great appreciators of figure skating. At the time of her death, Lois owned over 2,000 unique sets of Salt and Pepper shakers, which she displayed, year-round, in a small building built by Merle.
Lois is survived by two sons, Dwaine Smith and his wife Susan Pelkey Smith of Shelburne, VT, Dana Smith and his wife Mary Smith of Groton, VT, as well as her daughter Diane Dubberly and her husband Carl of Amherst NH, numerous grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. She will be deeply missed by her family and friends. She is preceded in death by her husband and parents, her brother Glenn Leslie and her son Dale.
Her family invites her friends to join them in a celebration of life open house, which will be held Saturday, January 17th at Plainfield Opera House in Plainfield, VT from 2-4pm. There will be no calling hours.
Honoring Lois’s preference, please do not send flowers. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, Greater New England Chapter, 75 Talcott Rd, Suite 40, Williston, VT 05495.
Montpelier, VT - With the full Crow Moon shining on freshly fallen snow, Ann (Nan) Stone
....show , died in peace on March 16, 2014. She suffered a stroke and died one week later after declining any life-prolonging assistance. Nan was born June 25, 1921 in Indianapolis, Indiana, the daughter of Arnold and Helen (Clark) Talbott.
Nan spent her formative years in Rye, New York. After graduating high school she attended the University of Grenoble, France, where she was not an honor student, and Katherine Gibbs in New York City.
On New Years Eve, 1943, Nan married Charles Johnson Stone. Together they shared a love of skiing, the outdoors and their family. They developed their passion for skiing while Charlie was in the Air Force in Colorado by driving up Loveland and Berthoud Passes and taking turns skiing down.
Nan and Charlie moved to Redding, Connecticut, where they raised their family and lived for almost 50 years. For many years the family traveled to Vermont to ski in the winter. Nan purchased a farm in East Montpelier, Vermont, in 1971 to be closer to skiing and because she had fallen in love with the beauty of the Green Mountains. Following Charlie’s death in 2002, Nan moved to East Montpelier permanently to be close to her children and grandchildren.
In 2003, Nan reconnected with high school sweetheart, Alan Gould. After 62 years, their love rekindled and they spent nine years together between Jekyll Island, Georgia, and East Montpelier. Following Alan’s death, Nan moved to Westview Meadows in Montpelier where she made many new friends, including the neighborhood crows.
Nan was always an active community member. For many years she was a literacy and life skills volunteer, and worked closely as an advocate and mentor for South East Asian refugees in Danbury, Connecticut, where she was known to many as “Grandma.” She also illustrated books for the gardening author Ruth Stout, was an energy auditor in the 1970’s, ran a fine arts frame shop and was affectionately known as “Saint Nan” by friends for her endless good deeds and generosity. Most recently Nan was a staunch advocate for Act 39, a Vermont law relating to patient choice and control at end of life, also known as “death with dignity.”
Throughout her life Nan was passionate about the environment, energy conservation, travel, gardening, reading, education, swimming, and walking with friends. Her self-described occupation as “homemaker” encompassed designing and sewing her own clothes, reupholstering heirloom furniture, and cultivating prolific organic vegetable and flower gardens. She was an accomplished and adventuresome cook and a warm and gracious hostess. Nan was also known for her frequent long-distance swims across Great Pond in Ridgefield, Connecticut, with friends - all trailing empty Clorox bottles on strings tied to their waists for emergency flotation.
Nan leaves three children, Chip Stone and his wife Susie Atwood-Stone, Chris Stone and his wife Mary (Thomas) Stone, all of East Montpelier, Vermont, and Ann Guerlain Ndione and her husband Modou Ndione of Waterbury Center, Vermont and Dakar, Senegal. Nan took great enjoyment and pride in the lives of her five grandchildren: Zoe Stone and Phoebe Stone of East Montpelier, Vermont; Maia Stone and her fiancé, Simon Preuß of Dresden, Germany; Antoine Guerlain and his partner Ashley Loehr of Hudson, New York; and Maddie Guerlain and her partner Tim Sider of London, England. Nan is also survived by seven nieces and nephews for whom she cared deeply. She was predeceased by her brother Edmund (Bud) Talbott.
Nan was loved and will be missed by her friends and family for her adventurous, independent, generous, and occasionally mischievous spirit.
A memorial gathering will be held in May in Central Vermont. Details will follow. Donations in her memory may be made to Central Vermont Home Health and Hospice, 600 Granger Road, Barre, VT 05641, Vermont Land Trust, 8 Bailey Avenue, Montpelier, VT 05602 (vlt.org), or Vermont Foodbank, c/o Melissa Baptiewright, 33 Parker Road, Barre, VT 05641
Nancy Stevens Strong
....show , 82, of Center Road, passed away Wednesday, July 9, 2014, at Berlin Health and Rehabilitation Center in Berlin after an extended illness.
Nancy was born at Heaton Hospital in Montpelier, Vt., Sept. 10, 1931, daughter of Neil L. Stevens and Arley (Hier) Stevens. She graduated from Montpelier High School in 1949 and from Johnson State College in 1954. At college she performed her student teaching at the Center School in East Montpelier as well as Union Elementary School in Montpelier, where after graduation she taught first grade. On June 16, 1957, she married Frederick C. Strong of East Montpelier who was stationed at Mountain Home AFB, Idaho. They lived in Mountain Home until the summer of 1958, when they were transferred to Ethan Allen AFB, Vt. Air Force assignments took them to Massachusetts, Mississippi, New Foundland, Maine, Nebraska and Labrador. Nancy was employed as librarian at the school on Goose Air Base, Labrador, and was a frequent substitute at the schools in Bellevue, Neb. In 1994, she and her husband returned to the Strong homestead in East Montpelier.
In her younger years, she was a member of the Randolph Chapter of Rainbow Girls and later joined the Order of the Eastern Star. She was also a member of the Friendly Circle of East Montpelier until her health limited her activities.
She was predeceased by her father and mother, her sister Nelda Stevens, her brother Neil L Stevens Jr., her sisters-in-law Beverly Azur and Alice Jean (Strong) Nadeau and her nephew Steven Brent Carmichael.
She is survived by her husband Frederick Strong of East Montpelier; son Frederick Neil Strong of Lincoln, Neb.; and daughter Nancy Jean Barker and her husband James of Prince Frederick, Md. Also surviving are her grandchildren Sarah Strong and her husband Ross of Lincoln, Neb.; Jacob Strong and his wife Michelle of North Liberty, Iowa; Rebecca and Rachel Strong of Lincoln, Neb.; Hanna Barker of Westminster, Md.; and Emma Barker of Prince Frederick, Md.; brother-in-law Ronald Nadeau and his wife Sheryl of Petaluma, Calif.; and seven great- grandchildren, as well as cousins, nieces and nephews.
A memorial service will be held at the Old Meeting House in East Montpelier Center Sunday, July 27, 2014, at 2 p.m. with a reception following at the Parish House.In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Old Meeting House, 1620 Center Rd., Montpelier, VT 05602, or to Central Vermont Home Health & Hospice, 600 Granger Rd., Barre, VT 05641. The family is grateful for the compassionate care provided by the Central VT Renal Dialysis Unit, Central Vermont Home Health and Hospice and the staff of Berlin Health & Rehabilitation Center.
Vivian Bryan Taylor
....show , 93, a long time Northfield resident died August 24 at Mayo Rehabilitation and Continuing Care in Northfield, Vermont. Born June 24, 1921 in Elizabeth, NJ she grew up a resident of both Mississauga, Ontario and Winnetka, Illinois, where she graduated from New Trier High School. Vivian went on to Northwestern University where she completed both her Bachelor of Science and Master of Science degrees and became a member of Chi Omega Sorority. While at Northwestern, Vivian met her future husband, William “Pop” Adams Bryan. Vivian and Will were married on September 26, 1942. Vivian enjoyed the life of a college professor’s wife and they settled in Northfield, Vermont in 1952 to raise their family. This was the beginning of a lifelong affiliation with Norwich University. Norwich was a family affair with Vivian working at the Norwich Library, serving on the Board of Fellows and becoming a Medallion winner. She was also honored as a Norwich University Honorary Alumna in 2000. Mom and Pop Bryan welcomed countless Norwich Cadets into their home over a period of 50 years. More than one cadet graduated from Norwich due in large part to their support and guidance. Many former students stayed in touch with Mom for decades and enriched her life with their visits. Norwich Homecoming was always looked forward to with great anticipation to renew friendships and recall wonderful memories. Vivian went back to college later in life, graduating in 1970 with her Master of Library Science degree and becoming the State of Vermont Law Librarian. Upon retirement, she immediately volunteered at the Norwich University Krietzberg Library for the next 20 years. Vivian believed in giving back to the community, serving as a Boy Scout leader, being an active member of SERV and a member of the Norwich University Staff/Faculty Club. Vivian loved to travel and managed to see many parts of the world. She was recognized as a founding member of the Northfield Savings Bank Passport Club and went on wonderful adventures with her best friend Libby Hambleton and her daughter-in-law, Dale Bliven. Vivian was an avid skier, becoming a member of the 70+ club and continuing to cross country ski long after she gave up downhill. She also enjoyed going to Norwich hockey games, especially in her later years with her son, Michael. Vivian was predeceased by her husbands, William Bryan, in 1988 and John Taylor, in 1995. She was also predeceased by 2 grandchildren, Ross and Justin, who died in infancy. Vivian is survived by her two sons, Shawn Bryan and his wife Helen, and Michael Bryan and his wife Jane; grandchildren Rachel, Erin, Jennifer and Grace and 5 great grandchildren. A memorial service will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, 29 August, at Christ Church, State Street, Montpelier, VT. There are no calling hours. Contributions in memory of Vivian may be made to Mayo Healthcare, Inc., 71 Richardson Street, Northfield, VT 05663.
Dennis Micheal Trahan
....show of Hardwick, Vermont passed away at his home on May 28th, 2014 after a short battle with cancer. He was surrounded with love and support by his caregiver Nancy Welcome and case manager of many years, Laura Martin.
He was born on May 19th, 1952 in Connecticut, and resided for the last 30 years in Vermont. He was a Veteran and proud to have served his country in the United States Army. He is survived by his siblings and their spouses, Joe and Lori Trahan, Robert and Robin Trahan, Gail and Richard Danning, Patricia and Paul Johnston, Theresa Shary and Jim, Nancy and Sandy Carlise, Marcel Trahan, and Marie Trahan, many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by both of his parents.
Dennis was part of the PRIDE family and leaves behind many friends. His infectious smile, high jump heel clicking and finger snapping will be forever remembered as part of the fabric of PRIDE and all of those who had the privilege of knowing this larger than life man. Dennis was always willing to help anyone in need and never asked for anything in return. His last years were full of the things he loved, fishing and the big tales that go with it, riding and caring for the horses at the Rhythm of the Rein, white ice cream, being part of all that is PRIDE, especially the Maine trip, and of course anything Harley-Davidson!
A celebration of his life will be held at the Barre VT VFW on June 4th at 11:30 am followed by a pot luck
Donation may be sent in his honor to Dianne Lashoones, Rhythm of the Rein Therapeutic Riding Program, PO Box 67, Marshfield. Vt. 05658
Una I. (Clark) Trepto
....show , 94, died March 3, 2014 at Berlin Health and Rehabilitation Center.
She was born February 9, 1920 in Northfield, daughter of Frank and Myrtie (Glidden) Clark. She attended Schools in Northfield, Hinesburg, and Montpelier, graduating from Montpelier High School in 1939.
She married Raymond E. Trepto, Sr. on March 19, 1945 in Plainfield. They lived most of their married life at the Horn of the Moon in East Montpelier. Una worked for the Montpelier Steam Laundry, M.H. Fishman Company, and did general house cleaning. For several years she cooked hot lunch for the Horn of the Moon School.
She is survived by her daughters; Nancy Trepto of Graniteville and Ginger Baker and her husband, Jeff of Hyde Park; son-in-law, John Graves of East Montpelier; grandchildren, Brian Graves and Robin of Cabot; Scott Graves, Terry Richardson, Darci Coleman-Graves, and Elisha Coleman of East Montpelier; Richard Craig and Stephanie of Morrisville; Heather Houser and Edward of Sudbury, MA; Karen Boyce and Ray of West Brookfield; Hanna Chamberlin of Graniteville; and Mindy Baker of Barre. She is also survived by 18 great-grandchildren and 2 great great grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.
She was predeceased by her husband in 1981; granddaughter, Sarah Graves in 1966; daughter, Sally Graves in 1998; and son, Raymond Trepto, Jr in 2010; and 13 brothers and sisters.
Calling hours will be held at Guare & Sons/Barber& Lanier Funeral Home on Saturday, March 8th from 1:00-3:00pm with a memorial service beginning at 3:00pm. A committal service and burial will be held in the spring at Cutler Cemetery in East Montpelier, VT.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society, New England Division, 55 Day Lane, Williston, VT 05495, the Vermont Heart Association, 312 Hurricane Lane, Williston, VT 05495 or to a charity of one’s choice.
East Calais, VT - Wayne “Red” Tuller
....show , 83, of Jack Hill Road, East Calais died Tuesday, February 18, 2014 at Central Vermont Hospital.
He was born in Montpelier on May 9, 1930 the son of Raymond and Nina (Fraser) Tuller. He attended schools at St. Michael’s Grade School and graduated from St. Michael’s High School in 1949.
After graduation, Red served in the US Marine Corp from 1950 through 1951 during the Korean Conflict.
He was married to Ellen Beck in 1957 in Burlington, VT.
Red worked for 34 years as a liquor salesman for the House of Seagrams and later with The National Distillery. For many years he was a rural mail carrier for the Montpelier Post Office retiring in November of 1991.
He was a member of St. Augustine Catholic Church, Life-member of Montpelier Elks Club # 924, American Legion, Canadian Club, and the Mutuo Club of Barre. Red was an avid card player and a member of the Montpelier Cribbage League.
He is survived by four daughters, Ruthanne Barney of Truro, IA; Nina Tuller of Calais, VT; Rebecca Kilburn of Calais, VT; Barbara LaRosa of Montpelier, VT; three sons, Michael Tuller of Waterbury Center, VT; David Tuller of Aiken, S.C.; and Christopher Tuller of Calais, VT; grandchildren Jason Barney, Dallas Center, IA; Renee Barney, Gunnerson, CO; Blaine Tuller, Derby, VT; Shawn Kilburn, Berlin, VT; Joshua Kilburn, Calais, VT; Bryant Tuller, Patrick Tuller, Erika Tuller, Colby Tuller and Colin Tuller, Calais, VT; Nathan LaRosa, Montpelier, VT and great-grandchildren, Nolan Barney, Jack Barney, Cole Barney, Ty Barney, Drew Barney, Dallas Center, IA; Maryssa Rossi, Keagan Rossi, Berlin, VT; and Mykenzie Tuller, Derby, VT; and many nephews and nieces.
He was pre-deceased by three brothers, Roland, Wendell and Robert Tuller.
Calling hours will be held on Monday, February 24, from 6 to 8 pm at Guare and Sons Funeral Home.
A Funeral Mass will be offered at 11:00 am Tuesday at St. Augustine Catholic Church.
Memorial contributions may be made to: Silver Towers Camp, c/o Montpelier Elks # 924, 203 Country Club Drive, Montpelier, VT 05602.
Boston, MA - Morgan Andrew Walz
....show , 2/3/1978 – 10/6/2014, age 36, died unexpectedly October 6, 2014 at his home in Boston MA. Morgan was born February 3, 1978 in Denver, Colorado to Anne and John Walz. He completed technical training at Delta College in Montreal, Canada, graduated from Landmark College in Putney Vermont with an Associates Degree, and traveled to Tuscany Italy for foreign study. He graduated cum laude from Northeastern University with a Bachelor Degree in computer science.
Morgan was a kind, compassionate, and generous person. He struggled with a number of disabilities, but kept a positive and constructive attitude throughout. He will be missed.
Morgan is survived by his parents, Anne and John Walz of Montpelier, VT, brother, Owen Walz of Portland, OR, grandmother, Barbara Morrissey of Redding, CA, aunts and uncles, cousins, and nieces.
Private Funeral Services will be held at Guare & Sons Funeral Home.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in his memory to Doctors without Borders, Amnesty International, or the American Diabetes Association.
Brian Patrick Webb
....show , 65, of Clarendon Ave., Montpelier died recently as a result of a sailing accident on Mallett's Bay in Lake Champlain. Brian had an incredible passion for sailing, and his family is comforted knowing that he died in the place he loved most.
Brian was born on December 9, 1948 in Auckland, New Zealand, the son of Valerie (Corliss) & Patrick Webb. Raised by two teachers, his upbringing was greatly influenced by the value of education and the rich heritage of music in the Anglican Church. This is where his life-long passion for music began. His dream of a career in music started at a very early age. At 6 years old he knew he wanted to be a conductor .He received his early musical education through school and piano and violin lessons. He received his Bachelor's Degree in music from the University of Auckland.
Brian came to the United States to study choral conducting at Indiana University in Bloomington where he received his Doctorate. In 1974, Brian was given the opportunity to take a job in Vermont, teaching at Norwich University where he was a Professor of music for many years. He later he joined Union Institute and University in 2001 where he most recently was a Dean of the Bachelor of Arts programs.
Brian held the post of Music Director and Conductor of the Vermont Philharmonic for over 20 years. He also held the position of organist and choir master for the past 40 years at Christ Episcopal Church in Montpelier, Vermont. His music career included conducting many local choral groups and orchestras. He also had the opportunity to conduct orchestras in Mexico, Spain, Italy and the former Yugoslavia. One highlight of his career was when he conducted the Belgrade Philharmonic Orchestra in a concert of American Music by Gershwin in 1985.
In 1984,Brian married Nancy Allen of East Montpelier in Takapuna, New Zealand. He and Nancy shared many interests including music and sailing. Together they raised two children with strong connections to music, a love for sailing, and the values of dedication, hard work and devotion to family.
Though music was his true passion, he had many other interests. While at Norwich he coached Women's Rugby, and from 2000 to 2012, he was an instructor at the Central Vermont Blue Wave Tae-Kwon-Do Academy. An avid sailor, Brian spent every spare moment sailing the waters of Lake Champlain where he kept his sailboat for 30 years. His goal was always to be the first boat in the water in the spring, and the last boat out in the fall.
Brian is survived by his wife Nancy; Daughter, Helen Louise Webb-Prosser and wife, Amy Webb-Prosser; and Son Evan Webb; Surviving relatives in New Zealand Include: sister, Jillian and her husband, John; nieces, Claire & Louise and their families; nephew, Steven; aunt, Meriam; and cousins, Joan & Murray. He also leaves behind sisters- in-law, brothers -in- law and many nieces and nephews on his wife's side of the family, as well as a host of friends, colleagues and students all of whom enriched his life.
A Memorial Service will be held at 2:00 PM on Sunday, September 7th at Christ Episcopal Church, 64 State Street, Montpelier.
Memorial contributions in Brian's memory may be made to the Christ Episcopal Church Building Restoration Fund, 64 State Street, Montpelier, VT 05602.
Mary Margaret (Heney) Wheeler
....show , 87, died June 26, 2014 at Birchwood Nursing Home in Burlington.
Mary was born on May 15, 1927 at Heaton Hospital in Montpelier, VT to William J. & Ruth (Ledden) Heney. She also spent her last few years in the same building, Heaton Woods, now an assisted living facility. She was educated in Montpelier and received her college degree from Trinity College in Burlington, VT.
Mary married Charles Robert Wheeler on May 10, 1952 at St. Augustine Catholic Church sharing 49 years together raising their family in Montpelier.
Mary spent the majority of her adult life on College St. in Montpelier where she and her husband owned many properties. Mary was the proud mother of 3 boys (James Robert, John Kingsley and Robert Lawrence). She doted on all family, caring for her parents, siblings, her in-laws, many aunts, uncles and grandchildren.
Mary is survived by two sons, John Kingsley Wheeler and his wife, Kelly Shawn North of Sarasota, Florida; Robert Lawrence Wheeler of Montpelier, VT; grandchildren, James Alexander Wheeler and his wife, Addie Wheeler; Christopher Mcduff Wheeler; and Sarah Kingsley Wheeler; and a great grandson, Benjamin Wheeler. She is also survived by two sisters-in-law, Mary (McGinn) Heney of Montpelier and Edith Shedd of Calais, VT; and several nieces and nephews. Mary was predeceased by her husband, Bob Wheeler on October 5, 2001, son, Jim Wheeler on December 30, 2012; brother, Lawrence Patrick “Bud” Heney on June 1, 2002 and a sister, Ruth A. Heney on November 19, 2011.
Mary was very social and involved with VT politics as well as conducting State House tours into her 80th year and was also a member of the Montpelier Garden Club.
She frequently travelled, especially enjoying Cape Cod, Florida and Woodbury Lake where her family had long time residences. You could find her collecting shells on beaches, paddling canoes in search of turtles and loons, driving back roads gathering wildflowers and joyfully teaching her grandchildren to fish.
A Funeral Mass will be offered at 11:00 am, Tuesday, July 8th at St. Augustine Catholic Church, 16 Barre Street, Montpelier. A memorial reception will follow the Mass in the parish hall. Burial will be at Mount Pleasant Cemetery in St. Johnsbury, VT. There will be no calling hours.
In lieu of flowers, if you wish to make a donation in Mary’s name, the family asks that you consider Heaton Woods Activity Fund, 10 Heaton Street, Montpelier, VT 05602.
Harry William “Hank” White
....show , 96, a longtime resident of Wheelock Street, passed away on Sunday, December 14, 2014 at the Rowan Court Health & Rehabilitation Center in Barre, VT.
He was born in North Calais, VT on March 30, 1918, the son of Harry & Florence Hazel (Green) White.
Harry received his education at Calais Graded School and graduated from Montpelier High School in 1936.
Harry married Adera J. Lacarno on November 28, 1940 in Montpelier, VT. She predeceased him on July 10, 2009.
On May 29, 1942, he enlisted into the United States Army Air Corp and served in the Pacific Theater during World War II.
After his honorable discharge from the military in 1945, he worked for the former North End Motors in Barre, and then the Employment and Security on School Street in Montpelier. He was also a longtime employee of the Vermont Highway Department, where he worked as a traffic engineer until his retirement in 1980.
He was a life member of VFW Post # 792, American Legion Post # 3, The Elks Club and The Sons of the American Legion.
For many years he volunteered as a Baseball coach for the Montpelier Farm Leagues, Little Leagues and Baby Ruth Leagues. Harry was a train enthusiast, enjoyed playing golf and was a member of the Montpelier Country Club. He was an avid fan of the Boston Red Sox, Celtics and Bruins.
He and his wife, Adera enjoyed spending their summers on Lake Champlain.
He is survived by his son, Timothy E. White of Montpelier and several nieces and nephews.
A graveside service with military funeral honors will be held in the spring at Berlin Corners Cemetery. There will be no calling hours.
June Ann (Lacillade) White
....show , 81, of Barre, formerly of Waitsfield, died unexpectedly on November 27, 2014. June was born on June 9, 1933, in Bolton, Vermont to Clifford and Irene (Goodwin) Lacillade.
In 1952, she married Freeman White and together they raised five children. They celebrated 57 wonderful years of marriage until Freeman passed in 2009. In 1967, Freeman and June, purchased the H. A. Hubbard Fuel Company and renamed it F. G. White Co., Inc. which they ran until it was sold to their oldest son, Stephen, in 1995. Although, June was co-owner of the business, she was proudest of her accomplishments as wife, mother and grandmother. “Nana” as she was known by her grandchildren will be dearly missed.
Throughout the years Freeman and June traveled extensively to all 50 states and several countries. June was a talented artist; she loved to paint, knit, crochet, do various crafts, cooking and sharing her talents with others. She enjoyed playing cards, board games and the challenge of a good puzzle; but her favorite pastime was spending time with her friends and family.
She is survived by her sons, Stephen White and his wife Lynn of Addison; Wayne White and his companion Joan of Northfield; her daughters, Susan Rounds of Fayston; Wendy Gilbert and her husband Brian of Waitsfield; ten grandchildren: Chad White, Matthew White, Buffy Miller, Heather Gauvin, Kelly Otty, William Rounds, Justin Lamson, Grant Folsom, Katie Vinton, Garret Folsom; seventeen beautiful great-grandchildren who were her pride and joy; her sisters: Marion Aubertin, Delores Bolles, Cynthia Decoteau, Sherrie DeCosta and brother, James LaCount; inlaws: Joyce White, Ethel Lacillade, Virgil Hall, and many nieces and nephews.
She was predeceased by her husband, Freeman; her daughter, Debi White; her brother, Howard Lacillade and two sisters, Elizabeth Hall and Shirley Maxfield.
The funeral will be held Saturday, December 6, 2014 at 11:00 AM at Guare & Sons Funeral Home, 30 School Street, Montpelier.
In lieu of flowers, please donate to the American Cancer Society.
Montpelier, VT - Gavin Spencer Whitney
....show , 35, of Middle Road in Graniteville died unexpectedly on Sunday, October 19, 2014 at his home.
He was born in Berlin, VT on August 16, 1979, the son of Spencer and Patricia Whitney.
He attended Montpelier public schools and graduated from Montpelier High School in 1997. Following graduation, he attended a number of technical schools including, Vermont Technical College, York County Community College, and Lyndon State College.
Gavin worked as a website developer and programmer for a number of companies including Level Nine. He also was the president and principle owner of WDS Inc., a Barre Town company that offered computer technical services.
Survivors include his mother, Patricia Whitney of Derby, VT; a sister and her husband, Lynnette and Paul Claudon of Monkton, VT; his Jack Russell Terrier, Jack; Grandfather, Glenn Nicholson of Montpelier; Aunts and Uncles, Frederick and Mary Ann Nicholson of Rutland Town, Marjorie Magoon of Montpelier, Steven Nicholson of Shrewsbury, VT, Gail Frank of Fairbanks, AK, Jean and Steve Purdy of The Villages, FL, and Rev. Ann Whitney of Wasilla, AK and many cousins.
He was predeceased by his uncle: Douglas Nicholson, grandparents: Betty and Clifton Whitney, and Mae Nicholson.
Calling hours will be held on Saturday, October 25, 2014 from 6:00-8:00 pm at the Guare & Sons Funeral Home. A memorial service will immediately follow beginning at 8:00pm. A committal service will be held privately at the family lot in Green Mount Cemetery.
Memorial contributions may be made to the American Heart Association- Vermont Chapter, 110 Main Street, Suite 203, Burlington, VT 05401
Montpelier, VT - Carolyne E. Wiley
....show , 86, of Montpelier, died on December 12, 2014 at her home.. Carol was born on June 17, 1928, in Rutland, Vermont to Elmer and Gladys (Boutwell).
She married Charles E. Wiley in Rutland on February 24, 1952,
Carol was a sales associate at Goodrich Furniture Store and Peter Glenn Ski Shop, which were both located in Montpelier. She was an active member of the Bethany Church, where she was co-chairman of the annual bazaar, altar floral chairman, and Sunday school teacher.
She volunteered in the Heaton and Central Vermont Hospital Auxillary and gift shop, State House Tour guide, the Gary Home, and the Northfield Quilt Show.
Carol took great pride in being a homemaker making drapries, coordinating colors and decorating. She participated in the annual Orange County craft days through UVM Extension Service where she learned to cane chairs, weave baskets, and make lamp shades. She shared the products of her new skills with family and friends.
Her other interests included playing bridge with the same group of friends for more than 50 years. She was president of the Clover Garden Club, Mother’s Club, and traveled the state to join the 251 Club. She also enjoyed hiking, cross country skiing, bird watching, identifying wild flowers, and playing tennis. Carol was always collecting ideas for the next holiday to craft decorations or cards with paper.
Carol loved to share time with her family; letters and phone calls with her sisters and brother; teaching her grandchildren a new craft, gathering for meals and conversation.
She is survived by her husband Charles, of Montpelier; daughter Dana McCarthy of Montpelier: two grandchildren, Kerry of Berlin, VT and Collin of Cambridge, MA: sisters, Kathryn Greenslet of Manchester by the Sea, MA: Helen Zecher of Syracuse, NY; brother Robert Eaton and his wife Lorraine of Mendon, VT., and her neices, nephew and cousins. Her brother, Kenneth Eaton died during World War II in1943.
Calling hours will be held Friday, December 19th from 3-5 pm at Guare & Sons/Barber Lanier Funeral Home. A Funeral Service will be at 3:00 pm, Saturday at Bethany United Church Christ, 115 Main Street, Montpelier.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Gary Home, 149 Main Street, Montpelier, VT 05602 or Kellogg-Hubbard Library, 135 Main St., Montpelier, VT 05602.
Bert Raymond Witham
....show , 77, life-long resident of Montpelier died on Friday, January 3, 2014 at the Woodridge Nursing Home surrounded by his loving family.
He was born on October 9, 1936 in Montpelier, the son of Raymond Bert Witham and Ramona (Brickey) Witham. Bert attended Montpelier Public Schools and graduated from Montpelier High School in 1955.
On April 10, 1964, he married Barbara G. Muzzy in New Jersey, while she served in the US Army.
Bert worked for the Barre-Montpelier Railroad for 30 years and retired as a railroad engineer in 1990. He served in the Vermont Army National Guard for 8 years. Bert was a 20 year member of the Montpelier Fire Department Call Force retiring in 1993. After his retirement he started a snow blowing and lawn mowing service for several families in Montpelier.
Bert was an avid hunter and fisherman and enjoyed any outdoor activities.
Survivors include his wife, Barbara Witham; daughter, Laura Witham of Marshfield, VT; son, Raymond Bert Witham and his wife Mari Jo of Shrewsbury, VT; grandchildren, Shavon Greene, Ashley Witham, Crystal Witham, Jordan Luce, Kylee Luce, and Lauren Luce; great grandchildren, Kayden Lesperance, Raiden Davis, and Roslyn Davis. He is also survived by his sister-in-law, Elizabeth of Florida; uncle, Dean Witham and his wife Marion of Essex Junction, VT and several nieces, nephews and cousins.
He was predeceased by a brother, Douglas Witham.
Calling hours will be held from 5:00-8:00 p.m., Wednesday, January 8th at the Guare & Sons Funeral Home.
A Funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m., Thursday, from the Trinity United Methodist Church, 137 Main Street, Montpelier.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Vermont Alzheimer’s Association, 300 Cornerstone Drive, 120, Williston, VT 05495.
Dean Louis Witham
....show , 93, formerly of Weston Trailer Park in Berlin and more recently of Richmond died Friday, August 1, 2014 at the Vermont Respite House in Williston.
Dean was born on May 3, 1921 the youngest of 11 children to Burt & Eva (Ormsbee) Witham. He attended schools in Worcester and graduated from Montpelier High School. Following his graduation, he enlisted in the United States Coast Guard and served during WW 2.
He was married on August 14,1949 To Marion Louise Brickey and they had two sons, Bob & Gary.
Dean worked for the City of Montpelier, Street Department as a foreman for over 37 years. He drove snow plow, the city’s old snow blower, and worked in the stock room and parts department. He retired on May 31, 1983.
He enjoyed going camping with family and friends, bowling, bingo, he was an avid deer hunter for over 30 yrs. He was a good friend to many people.
Dean is survived by his wife, Marion of Richmond; sons, Robert and his wife, Erin Witham of Colchester, VT and Gary Witham of Phoenix, AZ; four grandchildren, Rob Witham of East Hardwick; Korey & Kollin Witham of Barre; Ryan Witham of Colchester; a great grandson, Benjamin Witham of East Hardwick; and many nieces and nephews and cousins.
He was predeceased by his siblings, George, Jenny, Lillian, Earle, Myrta, Mahlon, Kenneth, Bob, Raymond and Fern.
A grave-side service will be held, Saturday, August 9th at 10:30 a.m. at Berlin Corners Cemetery.
Memorial contributions may be sent to Vermont Respite House, 99 Allen Brook Lane, Williston, VT 05495.
East Montpelier, VT - Helen Bailey Witham
....show died at her house on May 11, 2014.
Born in Montpelier, Vermont in 1921 to Jason Banta Bailey and Hallie Ruth Templeton Bailey Helen had a rather colorful farming childhood indicative of the times. She and her two sisters rode a horse-drawn sleigh to school in winter, often under wolfskin blankets in a futile attempt to keep warm.
Helen met her future husband, Carroll Eldredge Witham, at a dance in Montpelier. They marriedand had three sons: Carroll Jr., Bradley and Bruce Witham.
After a short while on a Roswell, New Mexico Air Force base for her husbands’ military training, she returned to Vermont happy for family, the cool weather and lack of blowing sand.
On weekends from her job with the State of Vermont, she started hand-building the stone fireplace at her camp property in the Northeast Kingdom that still stands. She loved it there.
Helen enjoyed traveling the world and was always thrilled to plan an adventure, clip on the fanny-pack and explore; she encouraged family members to see as much of the world as they could. She was an avid cross-country and alpine skier, water skier and walker she loved being out in nature, especially walking miles on the beach.
Helen was an excellent shot and routinely defended her prized garden by thinning the woodchuck population with a .22 kept by the kitchen window for a rodent too brave or stupid to know better.
Helen is survived by her oldest son Carroll and his wife Joan Witham, their daughters, Jennifer and Susan Witham and her middle son Bradley Witham. She was predeceased by her husband, Carroll Eldredge Witham Sr. and her youngest son, Bruce Alan Witham.
She will be remembered fondly, sitting by any available large body of water, cold gin and tonic in hand with a smile on her face.
The Witham family would like to thank Central Vermont Home Health and Hospice for their endless compassion and fantastic care; as well as the community members of The Old Meeting House, of which Helen was an active member for 66 years.
Helen’s funeral service will be held at The Old Meeting House on May 18 at 2 p.m. with reception to follow at the church’s Parish House.
For donations in Helen’s honor, please send to Central Vermont Home Health & Hospice, 600 Granger Road, Barre, VT 05641.
MIDDLESEX - Frank A. Allen
....show , 90, died on Friday, July 11, 2014 at Berlin Health and Rehab Center, Berlin.
Frank was born in Boston, Massachusetts, on September 29, 1923, the eldest son of Frances G. Kenney and Frank A. Allen Sr. He attended schools in Boston, and graduated from Boston Trade School, where he studied automotive mechanics and played ice hockey, a sport he thoroughly enjoyed throughout his life. He was employed as an auto mechanic, and then at the shipyards in Weymouth, MA, where he worked on aircraft carriers until he was drafted into the Army in February 1942, at the age of 19.
First assigned to repairing trucks and Jeeps in Sicily, he soon was transferred to the infantry and shipped to Salerno as part of the 3rd Division rifle company platoon. This unit was used to “plug holes” in the front lines of combat. As Frank described it in an account he wrote later in life, they walked, crawled, and hiked most of the “boot” of Italy, meeting the Germans up close and personal, exchanging mortar shells, grenades, and rifle fire. He spent his 21st birthday in a vineyard “somewhere in Italy”, where a farm family took him in and gave him food and shelter for the night, a welcome break from sleeping in the mud. He was wounded in the fighting at Anzio beachhead. He spent 8 months in the hospital: more than three months in field hospitals in Italy, then a hospital ship, and then to Framingham, MA. He received a medical discharge in October 1944. He was a recipient of the Bronze Star, Purple Heart, and other campaign awards.
Upon discharge he came to live in Middlesex, Vermont, where his family had moved while he was away at war. In 1945, he accepted employment with the Marsh-Allen Farm Machinery Company of Barre, where he served as shop foreman for 15 years. He married Priscilla (Pat) M. Wood of South Kirby, Vermont, on October 18, 1948, in St. Johnsbury. They resided in Barre City and South Barre until 1960, when Frank accepted employment in Boston and attended Lincoln Institute, Northeastern University.
In 1962, following the death of his father, Frank and Pat returned to Middlesex where Frank assumed responsibility for his father’s business and the support of his mother. The Frank A. Allen Co., wholesale distributors of water pumps and well supplies, flourished; he sold the company and retired in 1989.
Frank was deeply committed to the family-owned company and to the water well industry, to his customers, and to his employees. He was a member and director of the Vermont Water Well Association, as well as the New England Water Well Association. As a director of the National Water Well Association, Frank was chairman of the Supplier’s Division; he served as director of the Supplier’s Division for eight years. A member of the Dealers Advisory Council of the Pump Division of Fairbanks Morse Company, in 1984 Frank was recognized by Fairbanks Morse and received an award for thirty years of service as a distributor of Fairbanks Morse water pumps. Frank and Pat enjoyed extensive travel in relation to the water pump business.
After retirement in late 1989, and the sale of the Frank Allen Co. and the Allen family home in Middlesex, Frank and Pat spent the winter months at their Florida homes, first in Naples, then Homosassa and Hudson. In 2005, they returned to Middlesex to live full time.
Frank was an active member of the Montpelier Men’s Bowling League from 1945 until he suffered a heart attack in 1976. A committed golfer, he was a longtime member of the Northfield Country Club and the Blush Hill Country Club in Waterbury. He also golfed for many years at Brentwood and Pine Ridge Clubs in Homosassa and Beverly Hills, Florida. Other memberships include the American Legion and VFW in Montpelier, the Montpelier Elks Club, and the Canadian Club in Barre.
Frank served the Town of Middlesex as Zoning Administrator during the 1960s and early 1970s. A committed member of the Middlesex United Methodist Church, he gave many hours to the support of his Church and his Lord. He was blessed with a special singing voice, loved gospel music, and always looked forward to Sunday service.
Frank Allen was “always there” for his family, his employees, and his customers. He was also well-known and respected by the Vermont nursing community for his support of his wife’s professional activities and his own strong support for the role of women in society and in business. Frank “opened the door” for the first woman to chair the Supplier’s Division of the National Water Well Association. Frank’s trademark was his ever-present song and laughter.
He is survived by his wife of 65 years, Pat; three sisters-in-law, Marian H. Warden of Gulf Breeze, FL; Marion E. Kimball of Knoxville, TN; and Lorraine G. Allen of Rutland, VT; and 27 nieces and nephews who were very special to him. He was predeceased by his siblings, Charles E. Allen; Randall G. Allen and William H. Allen.
Family and friends are invited to the Interment with military honors to be held at 12 noon, Saturday, July 19th at the Middlesex Center Cemetery. Following the Interment, there will be a Memorial Service at 1:00 pm at the Middlesex United Methodist Church. A Memorial reception will be held in the parish hall after the service.
Should friends desire, contributions in his memory may be made to the “Pat & Frank Allen Nurse Scholarship”, Vermont State Nurses Foundation, Inc., 100 Dorset Street, Suite 13, South Burlington, VT 05403, or to Central Vermont Home Health & Hospice, Inc., 600 Granger Road, Barre, VT 05641
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