Montpelier, VT - Ann Gray Aldrich
....show passed peacefully into the arms of our Lord on April 8, 2015. Ann was born Ann Lyon Gray on February 18, 1930 in Orleans, VT and was a 1948 graduate of Orleans High School. Upon graduation, she attended both the University of Vermont and Becker College in Worchester, MA, before taking a job as a news reporter at the Caledonian Record in St. Johnsbury. She had a passion for reporting and anyone who knew her knows that her engaging and inquisitive mind was one of her most endearing features. It was in St. Johnsbury where she met her husband Frank Aldrich and found the second great passion in her life, raising her four children; Jude, Brad, Barry and Lori, and then enjoying her grandkids. Ann and Frank lived in Wilder, VT before finally settling in Montpelier. Near the end she would tell us that she was ready to go, with no regrets. That's truly a life well lived.
Ann is predeceased by her husband Frank Aldrich. She leaves behind her four children Jude Allen and husband John of New York City, Brad Aldrich and his wife Mary of Shelburne, VT, Barry Aldrich and his wife Robin of Lyndonville, VT, Lori Aldrich and partner Peter Scherber of Richmond, VT and five grandchildren, Kyra Allen, Christine and Patrick Aldrich, Samantha David and Kaitlin Scherber. She also predeceases her brother Robert Gray and his wife Barbara of Orlando, FL, her sister Susan Campbell and husband Carl of Waynesville, NC and her sister Betsy Gray of Ovedia, FL.
The family wishes to thank the staff at the Gary Home and Woodridge Nursing Home for their outstanding compassion and exceptional care. Calling hours and remembrances will be held at Guare & Sons Funeral Home in Montpelier from 5-7 pm on Monday, April 13, 2015, with a private burial to follow at a later date. In lieu of flowers, please consider a gift to the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society.
Montpelier, VT - Raymond N. Alvarez
....show , 88, of Westwood Drive in Montpelier, died on Friday, November 13, 2015 at the Birchwood Nursing Home in Burlington,VT.
He was born on March 8, 1927 in Montpelier, the son of Narciso (‘Villa’) and Josephine (Ghiringhelli) Alvarez. He graduated from Montpelier High School in the class of 1945. After high school he enlisted in the United States Marines and served until his honorable discharge in 1948. He then attended Vermont College and Burdett College in Boston, MA where he earned his Associates Degree.
On October 25, 1953, Raymond married Maxine Norton of Putnumville,VT. She predeceased him in 1993. Raymond was the proud owner and proprietor of the Capital Market on Main Street, a business that was started by his father in 1927. Raymond, or Rico as he was known, was a lifelong Montpelierite. For 50 years he could be seen in his white butchers jacket as he delivered meats and produce to the restaurants in town and at the daily meeting with other Montpelier merchants at the Coffee Corner.
Raymond was a member of the Montpelier Gun Club and had a passion for Trap Shooting. He traveled throughout the United States to compete in trap shooting events. He was considered one of the top shooters in the US and frequently won Senior Veterans Category at shoots he attended.
Survivors include his long time devoted companion and friend, Francese Setien of Montpelier and Barre; sons; James Alvarez and significant other Patricia Freeman of Gloucester, MA, and Jeffrey Alvarez and his wife Ellen of Knoxville, TN; granddaughters, Emily Gensler and Grace Alvarez; sister, Evelyn Trono and her husband, Al of Burlington, VT; and several nieces and nephews including Marianne and her husband Ivin Silver, Nancy Trono, and Raymond and his wife Theresa Trono.
Calling hours will be held from 11:30-1:00 pm on Sunday, November 22, 2015 at the Guare & Sons Funeral Home with a funeral service beginning at 1:00 pm. The committal will follow at the Green Mount Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the Montpelier Gun Club, c/o Dennis Devaux, 87 Eastview Drive, East Thetford, VT 05043, the Central Vermont Home Health and Hospice, 600 Granger Road-Berlin, Barre, VT 05641, or to the Birchwood Terrace, patient activities fund, 43 Star Farm Road, Burlington, VT 05408.
Montpelier, VT - Theresa J. Arioli
....show , 91, of Montpelier, died Friday, February 13, 2015, at Woodridge Nursing Home in Berlin. She died peacefully, gazing at the picture of Our lady of Medjugorje who held a special place in her heart.
She was born October 15, 1923, in St. Sylvestre, Province of Quebec, Canada, the daughter of Arthur and Anna (Savoie) Jacques. She came to Barre with her family as a young child, one of fifteen children. She was a student at St. Monica’s Catholic School and the College Jesus Marie De Sillery, Quebec City.
Theresa wed Delio G. Arioli on June 5, 1948, at St. Monica’s Catholic Church, in Barre Vermont. After marrying, the couple moved to Sibley Avenue in Montpelier, where Theresa lived for 57 years until becoming a resident at Woodridge.
Survivors include her daughter Cynthia A. Murphy and husband Stephen J. Murphy of Montpelier, her son Joseph B. Arioli and wife Sally Borden of South Burlington, and her son Paul J. Arioli of Montpelier. Theresa is also survived by her grandchildren, Kristopher J. Murphy, Martin A. Murphy, Sarah T. Kitchen and her husband David A. Kitchen, Leah M. Jones and her husband Keith M. Jones, Krista M. Arioli and her fiancée Ben C. Willmann, Daniel J. Arioli, and Melissa A. Arioli, as well as four great-grandchildren, Owen Jones, Dean Jones, Cole Jones, and Sabin Kitchen; her sister Beatrice Herbert, her brother Lawrence Jacques, many nieces and nephews; and her Lydia Lewis, her lifelong friend, who was like a sister to her, her husband Carroll, and their children. She was predeceased by her husband, and twelve (12) brothers and sisters.
Theresa was loved deeply by her children to whom she held the title of greatest mother in the world, best friend, confidant, and healer of all physical, emotional, spiritual wounds. In spite of enduring many physical and health challenges of which she never complained, be it family, friend, or someone she had never met before, her focus was always on them. If you had a problem she was always there to listen and comfort you. She never gave advice so much as made you feel better in unexplainable ways.
Theresa had an extraordinary relationship and friendship with each of her children, her grandchildren to whom she was Noni, and great-grandchildren (Super Noni). They will miss her fiercely. To them, she was the light of their lives, providing them with unwavering support and love. To them, she was a quiet leader with immeasurable courage who selflessly gave her time, love, and positive energy.
She was adored by her nieces and nephews, a number of who came to live with her and Delio when the need presented itself. She became a loving mother to them when they needed a mother and mothering the most, and she remained close to them throughout her life
Theresa was a devout parishioner at St. Augustine’s Catholic Church. There, she served her community as a long-time member of the Catholic Daughters of America Court St. Augustine’s, assisting in the church’s soup kitchen, and doing altar preparations. In addition, Theresa was a member of the Ladies of the Knights of Columbus. Though she rarely missed a Sunday Mass, much of her spiritualty was practiced at home in prayer and meditation. She became known as a direct prayer line and it was common for her to be called by friends and family requesting her prayers.
Theresa worked at Tomasi’s Drug Store, as a nanny, and at Cabot Hosieries, though her favorite "job" was working with her dear friend, Carol Murphy, at a children’s clothing store called KidStuff. Otherwise she generously spent her time providing rides and good company to family and friends.
Theresa became a long-time resident at Woodridge and was loved and respected by the staff and other residents there. Although severely affected by a stroke, she looked after her roommates, tending to them, making sure the staff was well aware of their needs. While her stroke left her aphasiac (unable to translate her thoughts into understandable language) and unable to walk or use her right hand, she made strong personal connections with staff and residents alike, through a gesture, one of her famous looks, and a few words she could speak. It was a regular occurrence for a visitor to the nursing home to come up to one of us and tell us what a special person our mother was.
In our society we measure the success by a person’s status in life and their accomplishments in their professional life. By that measure Theresa lived an uneventful life of modest accomplishment. However, if judged by a more important standard her accomplishments were profound. This gentle soul exemplified kindness, the spirit of hope, and modeled how to love, and what forgiveness truly means; it was given freely, unconditionally, and without expectation. She left the world a better place by be in it, by this measure she was a giant.
Finally, Theresa’s family would like to acknowledge the dedicated staff at Woodridge Nursing Home, particularly the LNAs for making her life a little sweeter, a little brighter and by making Evergreen her home and you her extended family. She would want you to know she loved you. The family would like to acknowledge Dr. John Valentine, in whom she in trusted her care for over forty years.
Calling hours will be Monday, February 16, 2015 from 6pm to 8pm at Guare and Son’s Funeral Home in Her Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Tuesday, February 17, 2015, at 11 a.m. at St. Augustine’s Catholic Church in Montpelier. Immediately following the funeral, all are invited to join the family at The Steakhouse on Barre-Montpelier Road.
Memorial contributions can be made to St. Augustine’s Soup Kitchen or Woodridge Nursing Home activities.
Rico Babic
....show said he wouldn’t be old until he turned 100. Just 44 days after reaching that milestone, Rico died on March 5, 2015, a resident of the Rowan Court Health and Rehabilitation Center in Barre. His beloved wife, Jeannette Pinard Babic, predeceased him on April 6, 2002 after 61 years of marriage.
Rico was born Jan. 20, 1915 in Barre, the son of Nina and Dragutin Babic, Croatian immigrants who arrived via Ellis Island. He learned the value of hard work at a young age, selling newspapers as a boy on the street corner for a half-cent apiece. He packed pecks of potatoes at Montpelier’s A&P store, where he was also a store clerk. His earnings supported his parents, twin sisters and two brothers.
Rico graduated from St. Michael’s High School in Montpelier in 1933 and, at his death, was his class’ last surviving member. In 1938, Rico began his four-decade career with the Vermont Department of Employment Security, retiring in 1977 as business manager.
He was active with the state employee unions, serving in various leadership positions, including as treasurer and president of the Vermont State Retired Employees Association. Rico enlisted with the U.S. Army in 1943 as a classification specialist, stationed in Massachusetts. He would hitchhike or catch a milk train home on the weekends to see his wife and newborn son.
In 1946, Rico joined the Vermont State Employees Credit Union, serving on the board of directors from 1962-65. He was proud to be the last living VSECU member with a membership number under 100.
Rico reactivated the long-dormant Vermont chapter of the International Association of Employment Security in 1963, becoming its president, and from 1969-1975, he served as international treasurer. Rico and Jeannette attended 24 annual meetings, traveling extensively throughout the United States. He was known to proudly bring cases of Vermont maple syrup nips to every convention.
Starting in 1986, Rico and Jeannette began spending their retirement years in Sarasota, Fla. and summers in Montpelier or at their camp on Caspian Lake in Greensboro. Rico was a lifetime member of the Elks, American Legion and Knights of Columbus and served as treasurer of the American Slavic Club in Sarasota. He faithfully attended St. Augustine’s Church in Montpelier and St. Patrick’s in Florida.
Rico’s family will remember him as a leader who set the highest example. He was an excellent orator who relished giving speeches at any gathering, no microphone needed. He believed a firm handshake was of the utmost importance. He was also a careful listener who inquired and kept current on each and every family member. He valued his heritage and spent 20 years compiling three family trees. He imparted life lessons from fishing and golfing to working hard and saving money. He also enjoyed bowling, skating and playing cards but was particularly known for his love of dancing, his quick wit and the twinkle in his eye. For all of this and more, he will be sadly missed.
Rico is survived by his sister, Laura Gibson, and sister-in-law, Joanne Babic. He is also survived by his five children, Donald and wife, Sharon; Thomas and wife, Linda; Larry and wife, Patty Joslyn; Sandra Babic Sundarabhaya and husband, Nopadon; and Susan Babic Gill and husband, Howard; and by his 13 grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren, Lisa Lamdin and her daughters Courtney and Caitlyn; Corey Babic and wife, Leslie; Jason Babic and wife, Indira, and their daughter, Harlow; Kevin Babic and wife, Kristin, and their daughter, Warner; Kristopher Babic and wife, Sarah Menard; David Babic and wife, Katie, and their children Wyatt and Adele; Cassie Babic and her children Austin Bresett and Madison; Thea Babic; Jesse Crossman; Dylan Crossman; Clay Babic; Jintina Sundarabhaya and Narin Rico Sundarabhaya, as well as by many nieces and nephews and by his loving companion, Yvette Demers. He was predeceased by his parents, his brothers George and Peter and sister Elsie.
The family thanks the wonderful caregivers at Lincoln House and Rowan Court for their care and support since Rico’s return to Vermont in May. A funeral mass and services will be held later this summer. Contributions in Rico’s honor can be made to Central Vermont Catholic School, 79 Summer St. #2, Barre, VT 05641; to Lincoln House, Resident Activity Fund, 120 Hill St., Barre, VT 05641 or to Rowan Court Health and Rehabilitation Center, Resident Activity Fund, 378 Prospect St., Barre, VT 05641.
Priscilla Ruth Davis Backman
....show died peacefully at her home in North Calais, Vermont on May 8, 2015 surrounded by family. The daughter of Harold and Evangeline (Foster) Davis, Priscilla was born in Nashua, New Hampshire on Sept 24, 1922. Growing up in Cambridge, Massachusetts, she attended Longfellow Grammar School and graduated from Cambridge High and Latin School in 1940. She went to Tufts College for 1 ½ years and transferred to Goddard College where she graduated in 1946.
She was married in 1948 to Harold Backman and later divorced. The couple first lived in Lawrence, Massachusetts where she was active in organizing workers in the factories. In 1953 she and her husband were blacklisted by the FBI for their labor organizing and moved to the family homestead in Calais, VT. In 1960 the family moved to Northport, New York, then in 1965, back to Vermont. She worked at Goddard College establishing and organizing the off campus work term program. In 1975 she was employed with the State of Vermont’s WIC program.
She developed health issues related to life-long type 1 diabetes. She never let her disease get the better of her. Legally blind for 2 decades she was able to read with a magnifier. At her death, age 92, she was one of the oldest living diabetics in the country.
In 1980, she moved to New York City where she volunteered at a homeless shelter, The Natural History Museum and the Botanical Gardens, as well as being a counselor at the Camp for the Blind in Rockland County, NY. In the mid-1990s, she returned to Calais, VT, where she enjoyed gathering and researching town history. She was also a life-long member of The Women’s Relief Corp. in North Calais. Her return to Calais allowed her to continue her strong interests in gardening and birding.
Priscilla is best known in her family and among friends as a strong anti-war activist. Because such a huge portion of the national budget is allocated to war and the manufacturing of arms for war she was a tax resistor. She loved the Foster Homestead Farm, which was settled by her ancestors, George and Polly Foster, who came from Massachusetts in the early 1800s. She was the family historian and has a bountiful collection of old photographs and extensive research of the family tree. Her brothers, Forest Davis of Calais and Arthur Davis of Edmonton, Canada, predecease Priscilla. She leaves 4 children, Peter and his wife Annie Christopher of North Calais, David and partner Joyce Jacques of Willsboro, NY, Joel and his wife Felicity of Maui Hawaii and Rachael of Calais as well as many grand children and great grand children.
There will be a private family service at the Fairview cemetery followed by a public Memorial Reception May 23rd at 1p.m. at the Foster Homestead. Arrangements by Guare & Sons.
In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be sent to either Goddard College in Plainfield, VT 05667 or the Joslin Diabetes Center , 1 Joslin Place, suite 745, Boston, MA 02215
Williamstown, VT - Louise H. (Bean) Bashaw
....show , born June 24, 1918, in Lancaster, N.H. the daughter of the late Herbert and Harriette (Walker) Bean; died suddenly on March 20, 2015.
She spent her youth in Cabot and graduated from Cabot High School in 1936. Mrs. Bashaw was married on May 14, 1943 to Everett Bashaw, by the Reverend E. Leroy Rice in Barre, Vermont. Louise and her husband Everett had 56 wonderful years together. Everett passed away in November, 1999.
While her husband served in the Navy during WWII, she traveled to be with him and saw much of the United States. After his discharge, they made their home in Cabot, Vermont for 25 years, and then moved to Plainfield where they lived for the next 30 years. After her husband’s death she continued to live in her home, with the help of her good neighbors, for several years; finally deciding to leave, she moved to "The Gardens" in Williamstown, a retirement living community. There Louise made many friends and enjoyed all the activities the Gardens offered.
She was a member of the Home Dem Group and the St. Andrew’s Gore until they were discontinued. She volunteered for the local Hospital’s Auxiliary Benefit Shop for several years, was a member of RSVP, as well as a member of the Barre Senior Center. Her hobbies were playing cards with her friends, bird watching, crocheting lap robes for the Veteran’s Hospital, hats for the cancer patients and an avid reader. She also enjoyed visits from her family and attending family Holiday Dinners at Edward & Sally Leszko, Jeff and Nancy Potter; and attending the Bean Reunions and learning about her ancestors.
She is survived by several cousins, nieces and nephews. Among those in this area include: Roger Walker, Cabot; VT, Roy Potter, East Montpelier; Lester (Eddie) Bean; Barre, VT; Mrs. Edward (Sally) Leszko and her devoted niece Edythe Barbara of Branford, CT, for all her loving care. Her pre-deceased brothers are Ralph Bean of Cabot, VT; Guy Richard Bean, of Hamden, CT; and Carl E. Bean, of Guilford, CT; and sisters include Mrs. Vernon E. (Myrtle Bean) Dow of East Haven, CT; and Mrs. Roy (Marion Bean) Potter, Cabot, VT.
At her request there are no calling hours; a graveside service to take place at Plain-Mont Cemetery, East Montpelier on May 18, 2015 at 1:00 pm. Reverend William Wick of Norwich University will officiate.
Louise’s favorite charities were the Green Mountain Transportation, 6088 VT Rte. 12, Berlin, VT 05602 or The VT Cancer Society, 120 Connor Way, #120, Williston, VT 05495, for anyone caring to contribute in her memory.
Montpelier, VT - Barbara A. Benoit
....show , 81, of Montpelier passed away on June 8, 2015 at Arden Courts Assisted Living Facility in Naples, FL.
Barbara was born on January 17, 1934 in Franklin, New Hampshire but grew up in Newport, VT and graduated from Newport High School. She was the daughter of Florence Kelly and
William Mitchell and stepfather Earl Davidson. While attending beauty school in Lewiston, ME, she met the love of her life, Ronald, of Brunswick, ME. They were married for 61 years. For 23 years Barbara was a devoted Marine Corps wife. Ron's career meant frequent times apart, many relocations around the country, and the anxiety of his tour in
Vietnam. She proudly handled the tough times, always supportive, all while raising two sons. She is survived by her husband, Ronald of Montpelier; sons, Stephen and his wife Jayne of Essex, VT, and Keith and his wife Rachel of Naples, FL; three grandchildren, Jason, Michael, and Jessica; and three great grandchildren, Lia, Joshua, and Hannah.
Barbara enjoyed spending winters in Florida and going on Caribbe n cruises. Mostly she enjoyed watching her children and grandchildren’s sporting events. She never missed a game. Barbara
easily made friends wherever she went and will always be known for her generosity. A Memorial grave side service will be held on Wednesday, June 24th at 1:00 pm at Vermont Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Randoph Center, VT. A celebration of Barbara’s life will follow at the home of
Steve and Jayne Benoit, 10 Whitcomb Meadows Lane, Essex, VT on Wednesday at 5:00 pm.
Henry Toussaint Benway
....show , 67, passed away peacefully with loved ones by his side on Friday, April 24th after a short stay at Woodridge Nursing Home in Berlin, VT. He was born in Plattsburg, NY on June 22nd, 1947; the first of five children to Henry T and Grace Soucy Benway.
He attended Mt. Assumption Institute in Plattsburg and went on to graduate with a degree in Computer Science from Champlain College in 1967. After graduation, he enlisted in the US Army and served for three years as a Computer Systems Operator. Henry was employed for 10 years by the State of VT, followed by 18 years at IBM in Essex, VT. In 2009 he retired after working for the VT State Colleges and Union Institute and University. Post retirement, he continued applying his expertise and passion for computer science by working on computers for friends and family.
On April 23rd, 1976 he married the love of his life, Delina Pike. Hank, as he was affectionately called, was very proud of his family and homestead in Moretown, VT. He spent many years gardening and was a true handyman often praised for his resourcefulness and innovative abilities. Hank was an avid dog lover, and his sense of humor will be keenly missed. In recent years he especially enjoyed spending time with his nephew Aaron Pike and great nephew David.
His survivors include his wife of 39 years, Delina, his daughters Jessica of Montpelier and Nicole Godin and her husband Matthew of Vernon, VT. , his mother Grace Benway and three sisters Virginia Couture and her husband Gerald, Nancy Brodeur and her husband Michael, and Ann Benway all of Burlington. He also leaves behind brother-in-laws David Pike of E. Calais, Douglas Pike of Berlin and Donald Pike of S. Barre, and many nieces, nephews, and cousins. Hank was pre-deceased by his father Henry T, brother Robert, and sisters-in-law Diane Ribolini and Jennifer Pike.
In keeping with his wish, Hanks body is being donated to the Boston University Osteological Collection under the Forensic Anthropology Program. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Central VT Humane Society, 1589 VT-14 East Montpelier, VT 05660 or the Woodridge Nursing Home, 142 Woodridge Rd, Berlin, VT 05602.
There will be an open house celebration of Hank’s life at the Benway home, 2154 US Rte. 2 Waterbury, VT 05676, on Thursday, April 30th from 3-6pm.
Montpelier, VT - Muriel Ruth (Washburn) Bianchi
....show , a former resident of Berlin Street, passed away peacefully at Berlin Health and Rehab on September, 22, 2015.
She was born in Washington, VT on January 23, 1922, daughter of the late Henry and Elizabeth Washburn. She lived in Seekonk, MA and Riverside, RI before moving back to Vermont to marry Joseph Bianchi on June 27, 1964. Muriel was an accountant at J.C. Goff Company in Providence, RI for many years before moving to Montpelier and continued her accounting career with the state of Vermont at the Highway Department, Department of Employment and Training, and retired from State Building Division. She was a member of the Unitarian Church in Montpelier and their Women’s Alliance Group, the Charity Chapter #57 of Williamstown Eastern Star and a former member of the Rob Morris Chapter, and the Green Mountain Club. She and Joe visited his homeland in Italy and traveled to many Shrine Conventions throughout the country. She enjoyed knitting, crafts, and crossword puzzles, making lemon meringue pies, and treating her family to a delicious Thanksgiving dinner for several years. One of her favorite pastimes was going to camp at Curtis Pond in Calais. They welcomed family and friends to visit anytime. Another pastime was reading books and magazines.
Muriel leaves a step son, John Bianchi and his wife Dolly of Bristol, NH; three step grandsons, Stephen, David, and Robert Bianchi; a sister, Doris Washburn of East Montpelier; a sister in law, Edith Washburn of Jacksonville, FL and many beloved nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her husband, Joe; a brother, Donald Washburn; and two sisters, Marge Curtin and Marion Codling.
A Celebration of life with an Eastern Star Memorial service will be held 11:00 am, October 10th, at the Unitarian Church in Montpelier with a reception to immediately follow. A committal service will be held at Green Mount Cemetery.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Vermont Food Bank, 33 Parker Road, Barre, VT 05641-9106 or to the Shriner’s Hospital of Springfield, MA, 516 Carew Street, Springfield, MA 01104-2396
MONTPELIER, VT - Huntington Haag Blair
....show , 54, died at home on Tuesday, Sept. 1, 2015. He was born Sept. 7, 1960 in Cleveland, Ohio to Gretchen Haag and McClung Rhodes Blair. He was raised in Chagrin Falls, Ohio and Dallas, Texas. He graduated with honors from Brown University in 1983. On October 11, 1986, he married Sarah Boyd. Hunt and Sarah spent the first years of their marriage in Providence, RI, and moved to Vermont in 1992.
Hunt was a passionate worker in the field of health care and health care reform. He began this work at the Vermont Health Care Association, then, oversaw development of the new Copley Manor facility in Morrisville. In his years at Bi-State Primary Care Association, he worked tirelessly to expand Vermont’s community health center program and played a key advisory role in shaping Vermont’s health care legislation. Under the mantra of turning policy into practice, and because he was fundamentally a "do-er," he continuously sought to implement Vermont’s reform initiatives for the benefit of rural and underserved Vermonters. He was recruited to the role of Deputy Commissioner of then Division of Health Reform and State Health Information Technology Coordinator in the Douglas and Shumlin administrations. This work in health IT became his passion, as he recognized its power to advance health reform to the benefit of the public. He worked in Washington, DC, as Principal Advisor to the National Coordinator for Health IT, and continued this work nationally as an independent consultant. In all his work, Hunt was valued not only for his intellect, vision, and dedication, but for his rare personal ability to find common ground among a diverse array of voices, interests, and perspectives.
Hunt’s parents introduced him to the natural beauty of the outdoors and he carried on the Blair family love of birds. He took every opportunity to kayak and especially enjoyed observing the daily changes in water and wildlife at Wrightsville Reservoir.
Hunt was dear to his many cousins and in-laws, who appreciated his gentle spirit, humor, and generosity. He is survived by his wife, Sarah Blair, and beloved sons George and Adam, all of Montpelier; his mother, Gretchen Payne of Berlin; and a large extended family. He was predeceased by his father, Mac Blair, and step-mother, Ashley Blair.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to any cause that supports natural conservation or access to health care. Calling hours will be held from 6-8:00 pm on Friday, September 11, 2015 at the Guare & Sons Funeral Home, 30 School Street, Montpelier, VT 05602. A memorial service will be held 1:00 pm on Saturday, September 12, 2015 at the Old Meeting House Church on Center Road in East Montpelier.
Douglas Edward Broadwell
....show passed away August 15th due to massive complications from surgery. He was the son of Walter and Jeanette (Constantine) Broadwell.
Douglas served in the Army and worked for Bolton Valley and Green Mountain Coffee Roasters. Douglas had a fantastic personality and an awesome sense of humor. He loved to garden, fish and he so much enjoyed all the wildlife in his back yard. He also had a great passion for photography and old classic movies and shows.
Douglas leaves behind three children; Chris Jones and his wife Jenny and 2 grandchildren of East Barre, VT, Jessica Buswell and husband Nathan and 2 grandchildren from Cavendish, VT, and Sarah McIntosh and 1 grandchild from Melford, MA. He also leaves behind his 20 year companion, Susan Tarshis of North Montpelier, VT; two sisters, Sandra Taylor and Patricia Buckbee both of Waterbury, VT and many nieces and nephews.
He is predeceased by his mother, Jeanette in 2003, his father Walter in 2009, and his older brother, Robert in 1993. Douglas is being cremated and his prayer service and celebration of life will be held at 11:00 am on August 22, 2015 at Shady Rill Park in Middlesex, VT.
Montpelier, VT - George "Coach" Brown
....show , 93, passed away April 19, 2015. He was born in White Plains, NY on April 11, 1922 to George M. Brown and Ethel Drennan Brown. "Coach" grew up in Scarsdale, NY, attended Temple University then enlisted in the Army Air Force during WWII. After the war, he finished his education at Syracuse University where he had an outstanding college football career. To his last days he was an avid fan of all Syracuse sports.
George was a teacher and coach in the Montpelier Public School system from 1952 to 1992. He coached the high school football team to three state championship titles and the basketball team to one runner up title. His quote was "I was blessed with great kids". He coached the first Vermont Shrine football team in 1954, as well as numerous junior high and recreation league teams. He was also the Recreation Director for the city of Montpelier and established the first Senior Citizens Center. He belonged to several educational and high school athletic organizations, and was a past president of the Vermont Coaches Organization.
The Coach was involved in sports throughout his life, and remained active late in life through the Vermont Green Mountain Senior Games, serving on the steering committee and competing in National Senior Olympics Games.
He was very proud of his adopted Green Mountain State and loyal to Montpelier and it's schools and especially the kids who still call him "coach" even after they are retired!
George was predeceased by his sister Elizabeth Brown and his brother Andrew and by his first wife of 58 years, Leatrice. He leaves behind his current wife, Barbara Nelson Brown and her children and grandchildren. He also leaves his two sons, William (Karen) of Callawassie Island, SC, and Robert (Jacquie) of Bel Air, MD. He is also survived by grandchildren, Meredith Gendron, San Rafael, CA, and Alex Brown of Big Sky, MT, as well as a special little buddy, great grandson Jack.
There will be no calling hours. A memorial service will be held at the convenience of the family per his wishes. Interment will be held at the Green Mount Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the charity of one’s choice or in the form of just "Good Memories Shared".
Janet W. Burrus
....show , 67, of Horn of the Moon Road, died Saturday, May 23, 2015 at Central Vermont Hospital. She was born in Exeter, NH on September 18, 1947 the daughter of James J. McGoff and Madeline (McKinnon) McGoff. Janet graduated from Sharon (MA) High School and later attended Westbrook Jr. College and received a Bachelor’s of Arts degree from Johnson State College.
On June 8, 1968, Janet married the love of her life, David Burrus in Ridgeville, Ohio. They lived on Gallison Hill Road and later moved to Horn of the Moon Road. Janet enjoyed being a lumber Jackie in the woods, gardening, cycling, traveling, and summer vacations in Ocean Park, Maine, sugaring, recycling and spending time with her family.
Janet worked for several years for the State of Vermont in various departments including Health Department, Child Support Unit, Economic Services, AOT, Personnel Department and the Labor Relations Board. Janet retired in 2005. She was also a substitute teacher in local schools in the 1990’s.
Janet is survived by her loving husband, David of East Montpelier; daughter, Heather Belanger and her husband, Scott of Geneva, IL; son, Rob Burrus and his wife, Stacy of Hampton, NH; and 4 grandchildren. She is also survived by five sisters, Ann Wall of Concord, NH; Alison McGoff of Iowa City, IA; Rosemary Johnson of Bozeman, MT; Meredith Spyker of Glenwood Springs, CO; and Elizabeth McGoff of Bozeman, MT; and several nieces & nephews.
There will be a celebration of Janet’s life on Saturday, June 13th. For more details about her service, please contact Heather through her e-mail address at habelanger@comcast.net
Memorial contributions may be sent to Central Vermont Home Health & Hospice, Inc., 600 Granger Road, Barre, VT 05641 or to the Vermont Bicycle and Pedestrian Coalition, 35-37 Court St. Montpelier, VT 05602
Concha Juliana (Cano) Buzzi
....show , 93, of Montpelier, died peacefully at Woodridge Nursing Home on August 3, 2015. She was born on June 28, 1922 in Websterville, Vermont, the sixth of seven children born to parents Jacinto and Nieves (Aja) Cano, who had recently emigrated from Santander, Spain.
While growing up, she lived on lower Berlin Street in Montpelier which became a small Spanish enclave for farming. She attended Saint Michael’s Graded School and graduated from Montpelier High School in 1941. As a high school student, she worked at McLellan’s Five and Dime Store in Montpelier. Upon high school graduation, she began employment at National Life Insurance Company, where over the next several decades she held positions in the Mortgage Loan Department, Policy Holder Services, and for numerous years of her career, she held the position as one of the first corporate receptionists. She especially loved her work as the welcoming face of National Life, and had such privileges as meeting Vice President George HW Bush and Major League Baseball player Tug McGraw, and dignitaries from all over the world. During World War II, she sold U.S. War Bonds and was voted Miss USA War Bonds representing National Life, as well as Miss Maple Sugar. She retired in 1986.
Concha married Dario Buzzi in 1947, and raised three sons on George Street in Barre. In 1960 they moved to Pearl Street in Montpelier, where she resided until February 2015 and thereafter at Woodridge Nursing Home. She was a devoted and loving mother, and her immediate and extended family meant the world to her. Her passions included dancing, animals, bowling, knitting, dress making, classic movies, mystery novels and crossword puzzles. She was an active member of St Augustine’s Parish, Catholic Daughters of America, and volunteered her time at the Benefit Shop and Berlin Health and Rehabilitation Center.
Concha was predeceased by her husband Dario in 2012 after nearly 65 years of marriage, as well as her siblings Pedro, Louis, Stephen, Jesus, Vicenta, and Maria. She is survived by her three sons and their families, Carlo and his wife Judy of Danvers, Massachusetts, David and his wife Rosa of Plainfield, and Daniel of Montpelier; as well as four grandchildren Alex, Christopher, Gabriella, and Nicolas Buzzi.
Her family would like to extend a special thank you to the many caregivers who provided endless hours of comfort and support both while she lived in her home and at Woodridge Nursing Home.
Calling hours will be held from 9:00 to 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, August 6, 2015 at Guare & Sons Funeral Home, followed by a funeral Mass at 11:00 a.m. at St. Augustine’s Church in Montpelier.
In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to St. Augustine’s Church, 16 Barre Street, Montpelier, VT 05602 or Catholic Daughters of America, c/o Dorothy Canas, 75 College Street, Montpelier, VT 05602.
Gregory Elden Carbo
....show , 55, of Bliss Pond Road, Calais, passed away on April 30, 2015. He was born on August 22, 1959 in Montpelier, VT, the son of James Arnold and Jessamine (Wood) Carbo. He attended Harwood Union High School and was in the graduating class of 1978. He entered into the Vermont National Guard after high school and served his community and country with 12 years of service.
Gregory’s hobbies included wood carving, fishing, hunting, hiking, and camping. He also enjoyed music and was a guitarist and loved animals and children. Survivors include his son, Brandon Austin Carbo of Orleans, VT; twin sister, Kathy E. Carbo of Calais; brothers, James R. Carbo of Montpelier; Mike J. Carbo of Montpelier; and Neil Carbo of Calais, VT. He also leaves behind one grandson and many nieces and nephews.
He was predeceased by his parents and his brother, Steven. Memorial service will be held privately. Memorial contributions can be made to Central Vermont Home Heath & Hospice, Inc. 600 Granger Road, Barre, VT 05641
MIDDLESEX, VT - LeRoy M. Carlson
....show , 89, of Middlesex, VT, died May 6, 2015, at Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center, Lebanon, NH, surrounded by his loving family. He was born in Norwood, MA, on August 29, 1925, the son of Manfred and Ellen (Whittier) Carlson. He is predeceased by his sister, Priscilla A. (Carlson) Holman.
Roy attended Northeastern University, Boston, MA, and worked for the Vermont State Transportation Department for 31 years as a land surveyor and civil engineer. He served in the Coast Guard during World War II and in the Navy during the Korean Conflict; he was also in the USCG Reserves for 20 years and retired as a Quartermaster First Class (expert navigator of USCG vessels).
Roy served the town of Middlesex, VT, in various offices during his 60 years as a resident. He was a longtime member of Bethany Church in Montpelier, VT, and a proud member of the Fairbanks Family in America. He was a founding member and the first president of the Vermont Society of Land Surveyors. He is listed as the Number 1 surveyor of the state. He was recently feted for his 50 years of membership at the 50th anniversary conference last fall.
Roy was an avid gardener, dog lover, outdoorsman, and carpenter and woodworker. He attended boat building school in Eastport, ME, after retirement. During the last 20 years, he proudly and lovingly tended his blueberry bushes and sold the berries locally.
Roy is survived by his loving wife of 61 years, Joan H. (Seale) Carlson and their daughters: Elizabeth and husband, Alan Curler, of New Haven, VT; Kristen Carlson-Lewis and husband, Paul Lewis, of Concord, MA; Barbara Morton of Burlington; and Ritva Carlson-LaFlower and husband, Greg LaFlower, of Barre, VT. Their grandchildren: Heather, Matthew, and Jesse Curler; Benjamin and Bell Morton; Kelsey and Teagan Lewis; and Wally and Hannah Kendzerski
Roy's memorial service will be held at Bethany Church, 115 Main Street, Montpelier, VT, on May 23 at 1 p.m. Memorial contributions in Roy’s memory may be made to Bethany Church or to the Coast Guard Mutual Assistance (CGMA) program
Jean H. Carpenter
....show , 94, passed away March 10, 2015, at her home on Chapman Road in Montpelier. She was born on April 6, 1920, in Orange, VA to Leroy and Virginia (Coleman) Harman. She was educated, including business school, in Richmond ,VA. She then worked for General Electric.
Jean married Silas Carpenter in Richmond, VA on May 27, 1952. They moved to Montpelier and raised two daughters. She was actively involved in her daughters’ activities including Brownies and Girl Scouts. Jean was also an active member of Christ Episcopal Church. She worked in the Vermont Republican State Committee office for many years.
Jean enjoyed reading, doing cross word puzzles and spending time with her grandson. Jean is survived by her daughter Virginia, (Ginny), Himmelsbach, and grandson, Kyle Himmelsbach, both of Montpelier. She also leaves a special cousin from CT, and nieces and nephews.
She was predeceased by her husband, Silas in 1978, and her daughter, Mary (Dee) Carpenter in 2013. Her beloved cat, Shade, also predeceased her. A private service will be at the convenience of her family.
Memorial contributions may be made to Central Vermont Humane Society, PO Box 687, Montpelier, VT 05601
Patricia S. Carruth
....show , 85, of 2 North Franklin Street, died Saturday, March 14, 2015 at Woodridge Nursing Home in Berlin, VT, where she had been a volunteer since its inception.
Pat was born November 25, 1929 in Schenectady, NY, the youngest daughter of George and Victoria (Paskowska) Story. She graduated from Bellows Falls High School in 1947. She attended Katherine Gibbs Secretarial School and later graduated from Forsythe School of Dental Hygiene in Boston, MA in 1949.
She was married to G. William Carruth on June 27, 1953 in Bellows Falls, VT. Pat worked as a dental hygienist for over 35 years and was a past president of the Vt. Dental Hygienists Association. For 27 of those years she worked for Dr. Caccavo, Dr. George and Dr. Koch in Barre, VT. She retired in 1991.
Her faith carried her through life and she was a member of Christ Episcopal Church for over 50 years. While there she was a senior warden twice, an official greeter and a member of the vestry, worship, and discernment committees. Pat was a Lay Eucharistic Minister and a mentor to many in the parish. She started the Care Team and the Prayer Chain that reached out to those in the community in need.
In 1996, Pat became visually impaired and at that time devoted her life to being an advocate and educator for others who were learning to live with eye sight disabilities. She was an active member of VABVI (Vermont Association for the Blind and Visually Impaired) where she was on the board for fifteen years and started PALS, a support group for the Barre/Montpelier area. She was involved with the Consumer Advisory Council and the Speakers, which educated others about their visual impairment and the products available to them. Special to her heart was going to schools to teach students about what it is like to lose your eyesight and how to help and understand this disability. Through her example, she gave others the courage to face challenges with grace.
Survivors include her two daughters Kimberly Clark of Columbus, GA and Karyl Drew (Brian) of Hanover, NH, five grandchildren, Brendan, Colin and Topher Drew and Ryan and Kelly Carriss, three great-grandchildren Aiden and Ava Carriss and Kendra Jackson and several nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her husband, Bill and her two sisters, Barbara McMennamin and Janet Orvis of Bellows Falls.
A memorial service will be held on Thursday, March 19 at 11 a.m. at Christ Church, 64 State Street in Montpelier, VT 05602. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Christ Church or VABVI, 60 Kimball Street, South Burlington, VT 05403.
Dorothy E. Ciampi
....show , 83, died October 23, 2015, at Four Seasons in Northfield where she was a resident for many years. Dorothy was a long time Montpelier resident.
She was born in Montpelier on April 3, 1932, the daughter of Bertrand C. MacDonald and Florence (Chiquette) MacDonald. Dorothy received her education in the Montpelier school system.
Dorothy was married to Aldo Ciampi and they had five children. Dorothy and Aldo spent most of their married life in Montpelier. She and her family were members of the Christ Episcopal Church, State Street for many years. Her brother, Burton MacDonald, who is deceased, was a longtime sexton of the church.
Survivors include three daughters, Diane Dopp of Barre, Brenda Prive and her husband Al of East Montpelier, and Sandra Bailey of Barre; two sons, Aldo Ciampi of Montpelier, and Michael Ciampi of East Montpelier. Also surviving are her grandchildren, Marie, Karen, and Richard Dopp; Tonya Hayward and Robyn Bador; Joshua and Mitchell Ciampi; nine great grandchildren and one great great grandson.
Calling hours will be held at Guare and Sons Funeral Home, on Tuesday, October 27 from 12:00 noon until 2:00 pm with a funeral service to begin at 2:00 pm. Memorial contributions may be made to Four Seasons Patient Activities Fund, 135 South Main Street, Northfield, VT 05663.
Lexington, MA - Paul Francis Cleary
....show , 87, of Concord, MA died Saturday April 4, 2015 in Concord. He was the beloved husband of 51 years of the late Patricia (Redmond) Cleary, who died in 2005.
Born in Boston's South End on March 10, 1928 he was the son of the late James and Helen (Barrett) Cleary. He graduated from Cathedral High School in Boston and later received a Bachelor's degree in Business Administration from Boston College.
Mr. Cleary was a founding employee at Technical Operations Inc., in Burlington, MA where he was employed for over twenty years. He also worked at several similar companies in Connecticut and Massachusetts. He retired in 1991 as a production manager at Nuclear Metals in Acton, MA.
A Concord resident since 1962, he was a longtime communicant of St. Bernard's and later Holy Family Parish in Concord. Mr. Cleary was a loving father, a generous man, and a true gentleman.
Survivors include his loving daughters, Beth Marie Cleary and her husband Peter Rachleff of St. Paul, MN and Sarah P. Cleary and her partner David Batsford of Stow. He was also the brother of the late Harold, James and Constance Cleary, Ruth Spring, Catherine Rae and Barbara Sundin and is also survived by many devoted nieces and nephews.
Calling hours will be held on 5-8pm Wednesday, April 8, 2015 at the Guare & Sons Funeral Home. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated 11:00 on Thursday, April 9, 2015 at St. Augustine’s Church.
In lieu of flowers, contributions in his memory may be made to Pine Street Inn, 444 Harrison Ave., Boston, MA 02118
EAST CALAIS – Robert Francis Cleary
....show , 73, of East Calais, died Thursday at the University of Vermont Medical Center in Burlington. He was born Aug. 2, 1941, in Springfield, the son of John W. and Helen (Polcyn) Cleary.
He graduated from Bennington Catholic High School in 1959 and earned a degree in highway engineering from the Vermont Agriculture and Technical Institute in Randolph Center in 1961.
He also served in the U.S. Army Reserves. On March 25, 1972, he married Diane Wood of Randolph. Mr. Cleary worked for the State of Vermont Highway Department and later was a self-employed contractor. He and his wife owned and operated the Maple Corner Store in Calais.
Survivors include his wife, Diane of East Calais; two daughters, Lindsey Waldman of Jeffersonville, and Amanda Camp of Norwich, Conn.; a brother, John Cleary of Williston; four sisters, Jacqueline Marro and Grace Collins, both of Bennington, Jean Nonna of Pleasantville, N.Y., and Helen Greene of Eagle Bridge, N.Y.; four grandchildren.
He was predeceased by his parents and a daughter, Kelly Cleary. A funeral service will be held at Guare and Sons Funeral Home in Montpelier, Tuesday at 11:00 am. Friends may call at the funeral home Monday from 5 to 7 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Central Vermont Humane Society, PO Box 687, Montpelier, VT 05601.
Donald Milan Cody
....show , 82, died peacefully Monday, May 4, 2015, at Holy Cross Hospital in Fort Lauderdale, Florida surrounded by his loving family.
Don (Big D) was born on January 5, 1933 in Montpelier to Richard and Lilli (Handy) Cody. He graduated from St. Michael's High School in 1950. He received his associates’ degree from Vermont Junior College in Montpelier in 1952. Don then attended St. Michael's College in Winooski before enlisting in the Army in 1954. After his discharge in 1955 he returned to Montpelier and joined his father and siblings in the family businesses. Don was the treasurer and chief financial officer of Cody Chevrolet, Mid-Town Chrysler-Plymouth and Cody Enterprises.
On January 31, 1959, Don married Yolande H. Cote. They were married for over 56 years and made their home at 485 Elm Street in Montpelier for most of those years. He was the proud and loving father of six children, who have known his unconditional love and strong sense of family all their lives.
In 1982 Don & his wife, Yolande, retained ownership of two of the family businesses from Cody Enterprises-the Moonlight & Twin City Drive-in Movie Theaters and proudly operated them with the help of their children until they both retired in 1988.
Upon retirement Don and Yolande split their time between the green mountains of Vermont and sunny Florida. The two spent their winters as snow birds in Pompano Beach, Florida in the condominium they owned since 1967. They enjoyed the warm winters with their many JBE friends and Florida-based family members.
Don was an active member of Montpelier Elks for over 58 years. He was also an avid sports enthusiast. He enjoyed softball, bowling, tennis and most of all golf. One of his most memorable achievements was sinking a hole in one at the Barre Country Club. When not playing sports he loved watching a variety of sports on television. He was a loyal lifelong Yankees and Giants fan. As fate would have it, the night before he passed, the last TV game he watched was the Yankees beating the Red Sox 8-5.
Besides his loving wife, he leaves Donna Daniels and her husband James of Berlin, Donald II and his wife Michelle of Palm City, Florida, Kevin of Williston, Dr. Rayden and his wife Tammi of Atlanta, Georgia, Stephen and his wife Beth of Barre and David and his wife Lisa of Boca Raton, Florida. He is also the doting grandfather (Doo) to 11 grandchildren: Christine, Abigail Daniels, Harrison, Kyle, Logan, Alexandra, Dalton, Spencer, Angelina, Donald III & Kennedy. During Don’s whole life he followed many of his children's and grandchildren's sporting events, concerts and school functions with pride.
Donald also leaves his brothers: Rayden and his wife Ann of Ocean Ridge, Florida, Conrad and his wife Bettie of Jensen Beach, Florida and his sister Mary and her husband Fred Bashara of Montpelier as well as several nieces, nephews, grandnieces and grandnephews.
He has been predeceased by his parents, his brother Robert Cody, his sister-in-law Janice Cody and his aunt Nellie (Cody) Ziter and her husband Joseph. A funeral mass will be celebrated Saturday May 16th at St. Augustine's Church in Montpelier at 10 a.m. Interment will be in the Green Mount Cemetery in Montpelier, Vermont following the Mass. There will be no calling hours.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be sent to St. Augustine's Church, 16 Barre Street, Montpelier, Vermont 05602 or the Catholic Hospice Unit, Holy Cross Hospital, 4725 North Federal Highway, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33308
Conception (Conjie/Connie) Joseph Conti
....show , 93, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, April 14, 2015, at Central Vermont Medical Center in Berlin.
Connie was born in Upper Graniteville on October 3, 1921, in the family home. He was the fourth of nine children born to Andrea and Loretta Conti who had immigrated from Lettomanoppello, Italy. He attended the Websterville School before serving in the Civilian Conservation Corps. In 1938 he enlisted in the US Army at Fort Ethan Allen. He served honorably overseas for six years as a member of the 62nd Anti- Aircraft Artillery Regiment in World War II. He was awarded the Vermont Distinguished Service Medal.
On November 9, 1946, Connie married Rolande (Ronnie) Lavigne, the love of his life. Connie is survived by his wife, Ronnie, his children Loretta and her husband Roy Nicholson of AZ, Mike Conti and his wife Pam of MD, Patty and her husband Paul Haverstick of Waterbury Center and Jackie and her husband Steve Yandow of Moretown. Grandchildren include: Braden Nicholson, Carrie Nicholson, Ami Conti, Andy Conti, Amanda Knowlton, Kathryn Baccaglini, Jean Haverstick, Nicola Grasso, Laura Conti, Angelina Redding, Corey Minor, Natasha Yandow, Taylor Yandow and Alison Yandow. In addition Conception has six great grandchildren.
He is also survived by his sister, Rose Roy of MA, his brother, Peter Conti and his wife, Beverly of Berlin, sister-in-law Lenora Conti of Barre, and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Connie was predeceased by his parents, his son Andrew Conti, brothers, Nicholas Conti, Stanley Conti and Vincent Conti, and sisters, Mary Poitras, Annette Klingerman, and Norma Noakes.
Connie was a business man. The family initially resided in Barre where he owned a meat market and grocery store. They later moved to Montpelier where he worked for Swift Meat Company after which they opened several businesses in the Waterbury area including a grocery store, laundromats and a furniture and appliance store. He was president of the Independent Grocers Association. In 1972 they moved to Moretown.
Connie was a man of a great many interests. In his younger days he enjoyed outdoor activities including hunting, fishing and harvesting wild mushrooms. In later years he enjoyed collecting and restoring cars, juke boxes, arcades games and slot machines.
He was an active member of the Vermont Automobile Enthusiasts for over 35 years where he served in several capacities including President. Throughout his life, he enjoyed spending time with people sharing stories, good food and lots of jokes. He will be missed for his kindheartedness, generosity, quick wit and sense of humor.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Monday, April 20 at 11 a.m. at St. Andrews Catholic Church, Waterbury, VT. Family and friends may call Sunday from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Guare and Sons Funeral Home, 30 School Street, Montpelier.
Interment will be at a late date in the St. Sylvester Cemetery in Websterville. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that contributions be sent to the Waterbury Good Neighbor Fund, in memory of Conception J. Conti, c/o Waterbury Congregational Church, 8 North Main St., Waterbury, VT 05676
Berlin, VT - Elmer Percy Cormier
....show , 91, a longtime resident of Berlin, VT died at his home on June 12, 2015. He was born in Montpelier, VT on June 15, 1924 the son of Elmer Nepolian Cormier and Carolina Jilora (Manning) Cormier. Elmer received his education at Jones Brook School and attended Montpelier High School. He worked as a farmer and in salvage for most of his life. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, and watching the Red Sox and Celtic games in T.V. He is survived by his wife, Kelley Cormier of Berlin and a daughter, Susan White and two granddaughters of Barre, VT. Memorial service and burial will be at the convenience of the family.
Duxbury/Barre - Michelle Lee Cutler
....show , 54, of formerly Hill Street Group Home in Barre died September 2, 2015 at the home of her care-giver, Bethany Davis in Duxbury.
She was born in Springfield, Mass on November 8, 1960 the daughter of Earl C. Cutler and Marion A. (Bianchi) Cutler. Michelle attended schools in Agawam, Mass and Waterbury, VT.
Michelle was able to enjoy a dignified and fullfiling life because of the kindness and love of her caregivers. Michelle appreciated being part of the Davis family. She enjoyed the children and all the farm and domestic animals around the home and property. She liked to help Beth baking and canning fresh vegetables each season. She was a good artist, enjoyed crafts and loved sharing special moments in the community. She was a beautiful woman who sparkled when she was around family and friends and will be missed by all who knew her and shared her life.
Survivors include 2 aunts, Barbara Nelson of Montpelier and Betty Tower of Bomoseen, VT; Care-giver, Bethany Davis and her family of Duxbury. Michelle was pre-deceased by her parents, and sister, April Despault.
Services will be held at the convenience of the family. Burial will be in the family lot at Cutler Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made in Michelle memory to Washington County Mental Health, Community Development Services., 50 Grandview Drive, Barre, VT 05641.
Lawrence A Desillier "Larry"
....show passed away just before midnight on November 23, 2016 leaving his family devastated from the quick and totally disabiling battle with cancer. Larry had spent nearly the last two decades in the hills of Middlesex, Vermont. He opened his big heart to his new wife Linda ( Alexander ) Desillier and her two sons Aaron and Mason Alexander. During this time Aaron married Ashley Wood and recently gave birth to Rex our first grandson. Mason married Shannon Boyle and have given us two beautiful grand-daughters Adeline and Jocelyn. He enjoyed kayaking, camping, going to local activities, gardening and acting like a true Vermonter gathering wood and preparing for the four seasons. He made new friends and rekindled friendships with old classmates from grade school as well as fellow soldiers he had served with in Viet Nam. Studies of his genealogy gave way to traveling into Canada on vacations in our trailer which gave him great pleasure. He loved his dogs and the wildlife that surrounds our home.
Before coming to Vermont he lived in Mystic Conn. with his wife Connie and their two children Jennifer and Larry. Jennifer married Brian Flemming of Noank, Conn. and have an adorable daughter Cecily. His son Larry married Gina Amabello who also had a sweet little girl Audrey, living on Cape Cod near Brewster Mass.
Larry was predeceased by his parents Lawrence A. Desillier and Marjorie Gill as well as his brother Richard Gill Desillier ( who died in Cambodia in 1969 ). It was Larry's wish to be buried beside his brother in the family plot in Westerly, R.I. The military graveside service will be held April 30, 2016.
Cecelia M. Duquette (Baldwin/Wheeler)
....show , 79, of Ryegate, VT passed away on March 28, 2015 at the Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center as a result of deteriorating health and a severe stroke. She had been in poor health due to issues with Parkinson’s disease.
Born on April 24, 1935, in Montpelier, she was the daughter of Cecil and Christina Baldwin (Gidney). She attended school in Montpelier and was a graduate of Montpelier High School.
She is survived by her loving and caring husband of 34 years, Clement Duquette. She is also survived by her sister, Rosalyn Cooley and her brother Wendell Baldwin. Mom will be missed dearly by her children, Ernest, Bernardine and her husband Steve, and Brian, as well as her step-children Lynn, Jerry and Jamie, six grandchildren, six step-grandchildren, and her beloved four-legged companion, Teddy. She had several cousins, nieces and nephews with whom she loved to spend time and talk for hours with. Besides her parents, Mom was predeceased by her eldest daughter, Diane and her youngest brother, Henry.
"Mom", as she was often known by, was a very social person and especially loved her time working at Emslie the Florist and later in her position as a bank teller at the then Chittenden Trust Company in Montpelier. She also enjoyed her time as manager of the snack bar at Twin City Lanes and the pit stand at both the Catamount Stadium and Thunder Road race tracks. She enjoyed watching NASCAR, was an avid Jeff Gordon fan, loved to watch her flowers grow, listen to country music, especially her favorite artist Alan Jackson, and to spend her summers at their camp on Tickle Naked Pond.
Family and friends are invited to attend calling hours for Cecelia on Friday, April 3rd from 5 to 7 PM at the Guare & Sons Funeral Home located at 30 School Street in Montpelier.
In lieu of flowers the family would ask you to consider making a donation to the Central Vermont Humane Society. Their address is PO Box 1589 VT Rte 14 Road East Montpelier, VT 05651.
The family wishes to gratefully acknowledge her doctors, the staff at the Cottage Hospital in Woodsville, NH and the Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center for their compassionate care and concern for Mom and our family during these past few years of struggle.
CALAIS - Donald Merle Fair, Sr.
....show , 81, of North Calais, died Friday, December 11, 2015, at his home in Calais. He was born May 10, 1934, in Calais, the son of Roy and Ruth (Richardson) Fair. He grew up in Calais graduating Montpelier High School in 1952 and received a degree in accounting from the University of West Virginia, Beckley after a tour of duty during the Korean War in the Air Force. Don worked in several capacities in the tax department at National Life until his retirement.
Survivors include: his spouse, Kathy Fair; his five children: Donald Fair, Jr., Cat Fair, Grant Fair, Melissa Cohen, and Julie Taylor; and nine grandchildren. In keeping with his wishes, there will be no memorial service. Donations can be made in his honor to the American Cancer Society, England Division, 55 Day Lane, Williston, VT 05495
Pauline A. (Polly) Fernandez
....show , 92 of Berlin Street, Montpelier passed away January 10, 2015 at Central Vermont Medical Center. She was born in Barre, VT on April 6, 1922 the daughter of Charles & Nellie (Scampini) Catto. She grew up in North Barre. Pauline attended Barre Schools and graduated in 1940 from Spaulding High School.
On July 2, 1949, Pauline married Phillip J. Fernandez in Barre. Mr. Fernandez predeceased her on January 25, 2005. They were married for 55 years. Together they owned the New Frontier drive-in restaurant in Montpelier.
Pauline worked for over 20 years at the Vermont State Employees Credit Union. She is survived by a daughter, Joanne Murray of Danville, VT; son, Phillip J. Fernandez, Jr. and his wife, Kelly of Middlesex, VT; 5 grandchildren, Nathan Murray; Chelsea Murray; Jesse Murray; & Jamiee Murray-Smith and her husband Jonathan Smith; Tylea Murray and her husband Jorge Garcia and her first great-grandchild who is due in April.
Pauline is also survived by a sister, Doris Grant of Barre, VT. She was predeceased by a sister, Julie Liese and a brother, Charles Catto; son-in-law, David Murray. She loved spending time with her grandchildren and helped all five of them attend college to follow their dreams. She brought joy to many people throughout her life with a kind heart and a great sense of humor.
There will be no calling hours and a private family memorial service and burial will be held at Berlin Corners Cemetery this summer.
East Montpelier, VT - Marguerite "Petie" Hayes Ferris
....show Petie Ferris died peacefully on Friday August 14, 2015 at the Arbors in Shelburne, VT under the thoughtful and loving care of the staff who have provided for her over the last five years as she struggled with a particularly difficult form of Alzheimer’s disease.
Petie was born in Montpelier on July 31, 1927 to AD and Margie Hayes and spent her childhood with her two sisters and dear friends on College Street, an address she would return to many times in her life. As a student at Montpelier High School she met a mentor, Miss Edwards, the drama coach, who influenced the course of her life and she went on to study drama at Scripps College in California. Local theater became one of the centerpieces of her life when she returned to Vermont.
When her first marriage to Jack Ward ended in divorce in the mid 60’s, she finished college attending Vermont College, Norwich University and Johnson State and subsequently earned a Master’s degree at Goddard College. After serving as Admissions Director at Vermont College she was appointed Dean of the College. After her marriage to Cyrus Ferris she retired and moved to a home they built together on Cutler Heights Rd. in East Montpelier where she stayed until she moved into the Arbors.
She was passionate about social justice and an outspoken supporter of women’s issues. She was especially proud to have worked closely with former Governor Madeline Kunin helping to run the Lt. Governor’s office during her campaign and transition into the Governor’s role.
Working at the Kellogg Hubbard library, both as a Board Member during the capital campaign and as an active volunteer, was one of the joys of her life. As a volunteer she especially treasured her role of selecting and delivering books to the homes of people unable to get to the Library on their own. The Hayes room and the Ferris stage in that room were named in honor of Petie and her father AD Hayes, recognizing Petie’s long-time support of the library and love of learning.
She would be thrilled to know that she will be remembered as a strong, gracious, articulate and kind woman and served as a role model for many younger women during a time of social change. But perhaps for many, she will be remembered for her roles with the Montpelier Theater guild, the Lost Nation Theater and many other production companies as she starred in too many productions to be recounted over a local career that spanned over 40 years on stage.
She was predeceased by her loving husband Cyrus and is survived by her son Nick (Leslie) of Calais, VT and her daughter Connie Salmone of Holyoke, MA and her grandchildren Thaddeus (Daysi), Hester, Hayes, Dylan, Benjamin, Mark, Ryan and Ted as well as great-granddaughters Ariel and Sofi. She was also a loving stepmother to Cyrus’s children Dale Phillips, Cyrus and the late Tikhon, with a special connection to Dale’s children Gretchen, Elizabeth, Ally and Stephen.
In lieu of flowers please consider a small donation in Petie’s honor to the Kellogg Hubbard Library or the Lost Nation Theater.
Andrew R. Field
....show , 88 passed away on August 13, 2015 at the Woodridge Nursing Home, Berlin Vermont. He was born in Cleveland, Ohio on December 22, 1926. Following graduation from high school in 1945, he served in the Army during World War II in the Military Police. He returned home in 1947 at which time he married his high school sweetheart Juanita. Later that year he entered Western Reserve University where he earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration. Following that he earned his Law Degree from Cleveland Marshall Law School, graduating with honors, after which he passed the bar exam.
From 1953-1972, Andrew worked for National Life Insurance Company as an Associate Counsel in the Real Estate Division, first in Cleveland, Ohio, then in Montpelier, Vermont. In 1972 he began his own private law practice in Montpelier, and later was the founder of Field & Field, P.C. with his daughter Sarah. Over the years, Andrew chaired and sat on the boards of numerous organizations and helped found the Vermont Small Business Investment Corporation. Andrew was a member of the American, Vermont, Washington Country and Ohio State Bar Associations.
He was a communicant of St. Monica’s Catholic Church and a Eucharistic Minister. He was active in religious education classes and was a volunteer tutor at St. Monica - St. Michael Catholic School.
Andrew was a loving husband, father and grandfather who enjoyed time with family and friends. All who knew him were touched by his compassion and love for others. Andrew is predeceased by his daughter, Nora Catano of Port St. Lucie, Florida. He is survived by his loving wife, Juanita; children Sarah Field of Barre, Vermont; Elizabeth Altmann of San Jose, California; and Emily Hutchison of Massena, New York; as well as nine grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.
A Funeral Mass in celebration of Andrew’s life will be held at St. Monica’s Catholic Church in Barre, Vermont on Saturday, September 12 at 10am. In lieu of flowers, please send contributions to St. Monica - St. Michael Catholic School, 79 Summer St, Barre, VT 05641
Montpelier, VT - Howard Peter Fitzpatrick
....show , our beloved "Popeye," born September 22, 1926 in New York City, died March 14 in Burlington, Vt. He left George Washington High School in 1944 to join the Army and served in the Pacific Theater. He was the fourth generation in his family to join the New York Police Department, in 1951, becoming a Detective in the 17th, 44th and 18th Precincts.
He married Elizabeth "Liz" Rendall in 1954 and raised five children with her in Dumont, N.J. After retiring from the NYPD in 1971, he moved his family to Cabot, Vermont, having vacationed there since the early 1960s. He started his retirement working as a carpenter for several years, then went to work for the U.S. government and later, the State of Vermont, where he worked as an investigator for the Washington County State’s Attorney and the Vermont Attorney General until his second retirement in 1994.
He then traveled the United States and Scotland with his dear Liz, wintering for many years in St. Augustine, Florida. In later years, as Liz’s health declined, he stayed at home in Montpelier as her caregiver, easing her last years with devotion until her passing in 2014.
He is survived by his children Nancy, of Montpelier; Howard, of Seattle; William, of Plainfield; and Amy, of Warwick, NY; grandchildren Jessi, Will, Peter, Lizzie, Alison, Ian, Andrew, Owen, Mina, Jessa, Evan and Liam. He is also survived by his siblings Brendan and Elizabeth (Betty). He was preceded in death by his daughter Elizabeth (Betsy) in 2000.
Popeye was our patriarch, vigorous and healthy almost to the end of his life, who died as he lived, on his own terms, surrounded by his family. He taught us strength and integrity, and his life was a lesson in selflessness and unconditional love.
There will be no funeral; a memorial for Howard and Elizabeth is planned in spring. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the Central Vermont Humane Society or the Vermont Institute of Natural Science.
Worcester, VT - Duncan Francis Forbes
....show , 80, died on Tuesday, September 1, 2015 at his home following a brief illness. Duncan is survived by his wife of 54 years, Earlene (Dailey) Forbes; his two sons, Michael, married to Lisa Marie (Pierce) Forbes and Steven, married to Michelle (Companion) Forbes and four grandchildren, Cote, Trevor, Taylor and Jennifer Forbes.
Duncan was born in 1935, the son of William and Francis (Toner) Forbes and raised in Dorchester, MA. He was preceded in death by his only sibling, David. He enlisted in the United States Air Force in 1955 and served until his honorable discharge in 1958. Duncan later attended Boston University, graduating in 1960. Duncan and Earlene married in 1961 in Wolliston, MA.
Duncan worked for General Dynamics at Quincy Shipyard until moving to Vermont in 1970. While in Vermont, he worked for Vermont College which became Norwich University where he became Chief of Security. He developed many lifelong friendships while at Norwich.
Duncan enjoyed sailing, golfing and watching the Boston Bruins and Red Sox play. Visiting hours will be held Saturday, September 5, 2015 at Guare & Sons Funeral Home, 30 School Street, Montpelier from 2 to 4 pm. Military Honors will be offered at 4 pm at the funeral home.
The Forbes family would like to thank Stephanie Davis and the entire staff at Central Vermont Home Health and Hospice for their support and kindness. In lieu of flowers please send donations to Central Vermont Home Health and Hospice, Inc., 600 Granger Road, Barre, VT 05641 or Worcester United Methodist Church, PO Box 125, Worcester, VT 05682.
Mr. Loren B Fraser
....show , 87, Montpelier died October 27, 2015 at Heaton Woods. Loren was born to J. Victor Fraser and Beatrice (Bouchard) Fraser at Heaton Hospital Montpelier on May 13, 1928.
Loren joined the Army Air Corps after graduating from Montpelier High School in 1945. Most notably he served as an air traffic controller in Occupied Germany during the Berlin Air Lift. He attended the College Aeronautical Technology in East St. Lewis, Illinois after WWII, but his time there was cut short when he was called to serve in the Korean War. After the war Loren married Cora E. Fraser (Fair) of Calais and moved to Connecticut for a brief stint at Pratt & Whitney before he moved back to Vermont to work for the State of Vermont Highway Department. While at the State he took advantage of the SIT and EIT programs earning both his Vermont Land Surveyors and Professional Engineering License.
Loren was an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed hunting and fishing. He and Brother Roger bought Deer Camp back in 1953 and hunted the hills of Duxbury with his friends and family all the rest of his life. Loren was one of the first Vermonters to traipse over to Michigan to "teach those Michigan guys how to fish steelhead". I don’t know who taught who but he sure caught a lot of fish. Later on Loren pursued King Salmon in Mexico Bay earning his Captain’s License and operating a small fishing charter business. His specialty was scooting out well before dawn on heavy weather days to catch a few before the wind blew everyone off the pond.
Later in life Loren retired first to Belize and then to Bradenton FL where he spent his retirement fishing, playing shuffle board and hanging with Zach fixing things up. Dad is survived by his children Stephen Fraser of Glover, Diane Caccavo of Marshfield, Russel Fraser of So. Burlington, Scott Fraser of Essex And Andy Fraser of Milton; grandchildren Kristin Sohlstrom, Erinn Wang, Nicholas and Anthony Caccavo, Ellen and Peter Fraser, Michael and David Fraser, Hannah and Kendyl Fraser; great-grandchildren Emily and Conner Sohlstrom and Lyra Boots Caccavo; sisters Phyllis Downey and Janet Koval; Brother Roger Fraser.
Loren was predeceased by his infant son Douglas, parents and Brother Paul V. Fraser. There will be no calling hours. A Funeral Mass will be held 1:00 pm on Saturday, October 31, 2015 at the St. Augustine’s Catholic Church. Committal prayers will follow at St. Augustine’s Cemetery.
Montpelier, VT - Nicole T. Gagne
....show , 43, formerly of Montpelier and New York City, died unexpectedly on Sunday, October, 4, 2015 in Big Sur, CA. Born March 9, 1972 in Berlin, Vermont, she was the daughter of John Peter Gagne and Joanne Marcelle (Blouin). She was a member of the Montpelier High School class of 1990 and graduated with a BFA from Parson’s School of Design in New York City as a Metalsmith in Product Design.
During her high school years she was accepted as a participant in a joint Montpelier and Harwood High School Project Harmony troop that travelled to the former Soviet Union performing traditional American folk songs and dance. This was the start of the international travel that she loved all her life. She won the annual Paletteers of Vermont scholarship for her art her senior year and also had her artwork displayed as part to the Jeffords Congressional Art Competition.
After college graduation, she worked for a couple of small costume jewelry companies in New York. Within a few years, she started her own jewelry design company with a former co-worker Louise Douglas. Post 9/11 business was slow and she worked for several years as a prop stylist for photography. She was married and divorced from photographer Horacio Salinas. She and Louise eventually ended their partnership and she reorganized her company Leoworks as sole owner.
A year after recovery and recuperation from a near fatal fall in 2009, she moved west to Los Angeles. She continued designing and making jewelry on a smaller scale; most recently living and working at The Brewery Art Colony. This year she partnered with friend and fellow artist, Capra J’neva, to head a team that built and displayed their 20 foot sculpture of Axayacoatl at the Burning Man Festival in Black Rock, Nevada. She took classes in welding and metal bending as well as using fire flame effects in sculpture to prepare for this build. The piece was constructed up in Big Sur; a place she grew to love. She rented a little cabin in the hills with a gorgeous view of the ocean, where she could be alone in the beauty of the central California coast.
Nicole had such a love of nature, adventure and a curiosity for what was out there in the world. It was reflected in her personal style, inspired her jewelry design and the life she created for herself. She loved to sing and lived her life through a perpetual kaleidoscope of music. She had a passion for working with her hands…hand hammering the metal for her jewelry, cooking, planting, and decorating her spaces. Physical activity was integral to her life; biking, swimming, dancing, roller skating, hiking and in California learning to surf.
In her 20 years in New York City and her 5 years in Los Angeles she created her tribe of friends, not just acquaintances, who she truly loved and who loved her. Rachel and Peter remained at the core of tribal siblings. Even as members of her tribe would scatter throughout the world, she still held them dear in her heart and her life.
Nicole is survived by her mother Joanne Marcelle of Montpelier and father John Peter Gagne and his wife Carol of Barre Town, stepbrothers Daren Arsenault, wife Lauri & children, Dana Arsenault & wife Amy and stepsister Dawn Arsenault. Aunts Mary Kay Blouin, Ellin Bisson & husband Ray, Uncle Richard Blouin, Aunts Fern Hensen, Louise Dodge & husband Phil, Diane Button & husband Clayton, Uncle Paul Gagne & wife Caroline, Uncle Ronnie Gagne & wife Louise and Aunts Mary Gagne and Marilyn Gagne, Great Uncle Roger Blouin and wife Joyce, Great Aunts Polly Redmond and Dorothy Relation. She had many loving cousins especially Janell Perry, Jacob Graves, Cyrus Graves, Kristin Darcy, Shelly Nouri and Randy Hensen.
She is predeceased by her grandparents – Marcel & Lenore Blouin and Michel and Therese Gagne, Uncles Robert and Michael Gagne, Uncle Curtis Graves and Aunt Linda A. Blouin.
A memorial celebration of her life will be held Saturday November 14, 2015 at 2PM at Vermont College of Fine Arts Alumni Hall at 45 College Street, Montpelier, Vermont.
Ronald J. Gascon
....show , 74, of Freedom Drive in Montpelier, died on Friday, March 27, 2015 at the Central Vermont Medical Center in Berlin.
He was born on January 22, 1941 in Portland, OR, to Joseph and Dorothy (Stice) Gascon. He attended schools in Oregon and at the age of 17 enlisted into the United States Navy. During his career, he achieved the rank of Master Chief Radioman and Chief Warrant Officer. He married Judy Vaughan in May of 1963 and they and their children, born in 1964, 1965, and 1969 travelled to various locations during his military service. He retired from the Navy in 1976 and moved the family to Salem, Oregon where he worked for the State of Oregon for a number of years .After retiring from the State of Oregon he attended Western Oregon State College where he earned a bachelor’s degree in teaching. Following a brief stint as a middle school teacher, he worked as a consultant that designed computer systems for state departments of transportation. While working in Vermont, he met Sandra Moxley who he married on September 14, 1994, in Las Vegas, NV. He continued to live in Montpelier, VT until his death.
As a proud retired member of the United States Navy, Ron volunteered countless hours with the VFW Post 792 as a past commander, district commander, and state commander. It was in this capacity that he won the "Triple Crown Award" from the national VFW organization.
Survivors include his wife, Sandra Gascon of Montpelier, VT; daughter, Joanne Robinson of Salem, OR; sons, Anthony Gascon, of Oconomowoc, WI and Grant Gascon of Portland, OR; stepsons, Steve Gilman of East Montpelier, VT and Doug Gilman of Williston, VT; eleven grandchildren and three great grandchildren; and a sister, Frances McCain of Austin, TX.
He was predeceased by a brother, Samuel Gascon. There will be no calling hours. A graveside service will be announced in the spring at the Vermont Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Randolph Center, VT.
Memorial contributions may be made to VFW Post 792 1 Pioneer St. Montpelier, VT 05602 earmarked for VFW Programs/Vermont.
Dorothy "Eileen" Gidney
....show , 78, of Elm Street, Montpelier, passed peacefully in her home on Tuesday, September 29, 2015. Eileen was born on July 6, 1937 in Hackensack, NJ, the daughter of William and Dorothy (Merwede) Russell. She attended one of the first integrated public high schools in Hackensack and graduated in 1955. She enjoyed dancing and caring for her brothers, she was loved and respected by all who met her.
In 1958, she married K. Norman Cota, from upstate New York, who predeceased her on December 4, 1980. They met at a rollerskating rink, while he was in the Navy. They shared their lives together in Montpelier with their two daughters, Aimee and Michelle; who they welcomed into their hearts in 1973.
In the early eighties, Eileen met the second love of her life, William (Bill) Gidney, affectionately called "Wild Bill". They were married at "High Noon" New Years day, 1986. Completing their family with Bill's children and hers. Together they shared the love of dancing, extensive traveling, their many friends and family. The enjoyed their home in Montpelier and watching the hummingbirds was a favorite pastime. Bill sadly predeceased her in 1996.
Eileen enjoyed retirement from her many years working at National Life Insurance Company in Montpelier, VT. She spent her time traveling, doting on her many grandchildren, and maintaining her gardens and home. She was also a long time volunteer at the Central Vermont Hospital, where she truly enjoyed doing for others.
Survivors include her "Everloving" children; Aimee, Michelle, Jaime, Cathy, William "Billy" and his wife Robin, Emily "Mimi" and her wife Robin, Her "oldest" brother Edward Russell and his wife Marylene; Her brother William Russell and his wife Kathy; Her grandchildren; Bryce, Dakota, Meagan, Cassidy, Lauren and Sage. Her niece Heather and her husband George, and her nephew Craig Russell, as well as numerous extended family members.
Calling hours will be held from 6:00-8:00pm on Friday, October 2, 2015 at the Guare & Sons Funeral Home 30 School Street, Montpelier, VT 05602. A funeral service will be held 1:00 pm on Saturday, October 3, 2015 at the Funeral Home.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Central Vermont Humane Society, P.O. Box 687, Montpelier, VT 05601.
Montpelier, VT - Mildred I. Graham
....show , 94, formerly of Northfield St., passed away peacefully on February 5, 2015 at Woodridge Nursing Home. She was born on March 12, 1920, the daughter of Carl and Helen (Weeks) Richardson Sr. of Worcester, VT. She attended schools in Worcester and Montpelier.
Millie married Hershel B. Graham, Sr. in Worcester, VT. He predeceased her in 1985. They lived in Worcester, Northfield Falls, Montpelier, and East Montpelier (Gould Hill). She was mainly a homemaker raising their seven children until later in life, working part-time as a waitress/bartender at the Brown Derby, the Montpelier Elks Club, Lobster Pot, and the Rendezvous Restaurant. Impressing her son Rick, with her toils, he nicknamed her "Tillie the Toiler", better known as "Tillie", which remained with her throughout her life. She like nothing better than tending her flower beds and being outdoors; visiting family and friends; taking friends riding throughout the countryside enjoying the scenery, not knowing where they’d end up, but she always finding her way. She loved dancing, music, yard sales, dinners with family and friends, playing cards, bowling, and going out with friends. She also loved to travel and took numerous trips with her friends from the Senior Center. For many years, she volunteered at the Chamber of Commerce Visitors Booth and the Central Vermont Medical Center Benefit Shop in Barre. She was a life member of the American Legion Post #3 Ladies Auxiliary and the Montpelier Senior Center.
Survivors include her daughters; Janis Ghiringhelli of Montpelier, Gail Walker of Barre, Diane Graham of Montpelier; sons, Richard Graham of Randal, WA, Lawrence Graham and his wife Lynda of Williamstown, VT, and Douglas Graham of Houston, TX; brother, James Richardson and his wife Audrey of Worcester, VT; many nieces and nephews; 13 grandchildren and 13 great grandchildren.
Besides her husband, she was predeceased by her son Hershel, Jr.; son in law, Robert Walker; son in law, Edward Ghiringhelli, siblings; grandson, Michael Ghiringhelli and her siblings; Muriel Dupont, Joyce Saliba, Carl Richardson, Jr., and Francis Richardson.
There will be no calling hours. A graveside service will be held in the springtime in Worcester, VT. Memorial contributions may be made to the Montpelier Senior Center, 58 Barre Street, #1, Montpelier, VT 05602.
Georgianne L. Guare
....show , 91, of South Portland, passed away peacefully on Friday, March 6, 2015 at The Cedars Assisted Living Center, Portland.
Born in St. Leonard, New Brunswick on January 12, 1924 to the late Alfred and Marie (Morneau) Lebel. As a young woman, Georgianne moved to Maine to make her way in the world. She worked as a legal secretary for Attorney Harold Pachios.
A devout Catholic, Georgie met Thomas Emmons Guare at Sacred Heart Church in Portland. He had noticed her, and gained her attention by pretending he was unable to open the church door. She had noticed him too and quickly stepped up to help. They fell in love, and were happily married for 49 years until Tom’s death in 2002. During her lifetime, Georgie raised 3 children and worked in several positions, including a secretary for the City of Portland.
She loved listening to music and spending time with her many friends. Georgianne was also an avid reader and gardener. A devoted mother and grandmother, Georgie was loved and will be missed by all.
In addition to her parents and husband, Georgianne was predeceased by her siblings, Louis, Sylvio, Paul, Cecile, Gerard and Ann Marie. She is survived by her children, Michael Guare and wife Susan of Bangor, Connie Guare of Hallowell and Richard Guare of FL. Also survived by brothers, George and Leonard Lebel; 7 grandchildren; many nieces and nephews.
Visiting Hours will be held on Wednesday, March 11, 2015 from 6-8PM in the Conroy-Tully Crawford Funeral Home, 1024 Broadway, South Portland. Prayers will be recited at the Funeral Home on Thursday, March 12, 2015 at 10:15AM followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at Holy Cross Church, 124 Cottage Rd., South Portland. Burial will be private at the Maine Veterans Cemetery, Augusta. To share an online condolence or a memory with the family, please visit www.ctcrawford.com.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Our Lady of the Mississippi Abbey, 8400 Abbey Hill Lane, Dubuque, Iowa 52003.
Elaine Keen Harrington
....show of Middlesex passed away peacefully at home on July 16 surrounded by her family after a long illness.
She was born in Red Bank, NJ on March 12, 1950 as the oldest of eight children of Harry and Mildred Keen. Always an excellent student, she graduated a year early from Mater Dei High School in Middletown, NJ and received a B.S. in Elementary Education from Lyndon State College and an M.A. in English from the University of Vermont. She met her future husband, Paul Harrington of Montpelier, during an 8 am English class at Lyndon State. Years later, she would tell her students at the University of Vermont that there could be added benefits to taking an early morning English class.
Elaine and Paul were married on July 8, 1972 at the Church in Lower Waterford and had two daughters, Rebecca and Rachel. They moved to Center Road in Middlesex in 1976, where Elaine began her career as a journalist, writer, and teacher. Her writing and editing experiences included the Times Argus and Rutland Herald, Vermont Life Magazine, and the UVM Vermont Quarterly. She taught Journalism, Expository Writing, and American Literature at UVM and English as Second Language at Spaulding High School and in language schools in Washington, D.C. and Cambridge, England. She was a Board member of the Vermont Council of the Humanities and previously served as a Board member of the Vermont Council of the Arts. Over the past few years she has recorded commentaries for Vermont Public Radio. To listen to her commentaries, please go to: http://digital.vpr.net/people/elaine-harrington. Her grandsons called her Mina and they inspired her to start "Mina Knits," a brand of hand-knitted hats sold at the Artisan’s Hand in Montpelier. Tall, elegant, and gracious with snow-white hair, she was very easy to find in a crowd. Her 10-year-old grandson Nico described her best when he said, "Mina, you have a good heart."
She is survived by her husband of 43 years, Paul Harrington of Middlesex, daughters Rebecca Harrington of Fort Worth, TX and Rachel Harrington of Truro, MA, grandsons Nico Harrington and Xanti Hassan, parents Harry and Mildred Keen of Waterford, and siblings Marie Shaw, Nora Close, David Keen, Anita Waite, Stephen Keen, Eric Keen, and Ron Keen.
The family wishes to thank the physicians, nurses and therapists at the UVM and Central Vermont Medical Centers and CVHHH for providing such high quality and compassionate care. Elaine’s siblings and many friends provided incredible support and companionship during her illness.
An outdoor memorial service will be held at 2:00 pm on Sunday, July 19 at the Harrington’s house located at 436 Center Road, Middlesex. Burial will take place immediately following the service in the Middlesex Center Cemetery. A reception for friends and family will be held after the burial service at the Harrington’s house.
Contributions may be made in her memory to the building restoration fund of Christ Episcopal Church in Montpelier.
Worcester, VT - Remaining enthralled with the beauty of Vermont and nature around her, Thelma Morgan Healey
....show , passed away in Morrisville, Vermont in the early morning hours of May 6, 2015. She was 98 years young.
Thelma was born in Worcester, Vermont on January 21, 1917 to Margaret and Clarence Howieson. She attended Montpelier public schools and was permitted to "SKIP the 8th Grade", a fact recited often and proudly, and enter North Troy High School 9th Grade when her family moved to North Troy in the 1930's.
Thelma graduated from Montpelier High School, Class of 1934, where she was an enthusiastic participant in the High School Drama Club. Thelma was proud of her career as a professional secretary, in particular, her employment with Attorney Johnny Stone in Montpelier, Arthur W. Simpson - Director of Old Age Assistance, the office of Governor Lee E. Emerson; and Speaker of the House, J. Harold Stacey.
Politics held a special interest for Thelma. She was active in the Republican Party in Chittenden County as well as the Worcester Republican Party and the Montpelier Women’s Club.
In 1974, Thelma ran in the GOP primary for Senator of Washington County. She ran a good campaign on the limited expenditure of $74.13 and considering this sum, came very close to a run-off with her opponents. Thelma continued to advocate for items on her platform, particularly the universal provision of dental, eye and ear medical benefits for children and senior citizens.
Thelma was married in Montpelier to Norwich University graduate, Daniel P. Healey, Jr. on February 15, 1941. They were some of the first to enjoy a skiing honeymoon at the newly opened Lodge in Stowe. They were married 58 years.
Although her husband’s military service took them to California, Pennsylvania and Brooklyn, N.Y., at Thelma’s urging, they would always make their way back to Vermont. Upon Dan’s retirement, they moved to Hampshire Hill in Worcester where they spent many happy years together. After the death of her husband in August 1999, Thelma lived for several years in Houston, Texas near her younger daughter and son-in-law, Elizabeth "Bj" and Marc Kilbride. In 2011, she returned to Vermont to be back in her beloved native state where she chose to live in Morrisville, near her other daughter and son-in-law, Catherine and Paul Provost of Hyde Park..
Throughout her 98 years, Thelma retained a childlike wonder at the beauty of Vermont. She enjoyed good company and could tell a good story. She was an amateur but enthusiastic artist, an avid reader and had an eye for New England antiques. She was an ardent poetry fan and could recite "Invictus", portions of the "Vision of Sir Launfal" and the "Cremation of Sam McGee" up until three weeks before she died. She was proud of her Vermont-Scottish Heritage. She was a connoisseur of homemade cake donuts, an occasional cold martini and raw oysters on the half shell. She loved and admired "all creatures great and small", Irish tenors and the bagpipes. She especially loved the United States and its Stars and Stripes.
Thelma was predeceased by her parents, Margaret C. (Morgan) and Clarence C. Howieson of Worcester, Vermont; her brother, Earl ("Dick") Howieson, of Worcester and her husband, Daniel P. Healey. She is survived by her daughters and their husbands: Catherine Beth and Paul R. Provost of Hyde Park, Vermont and Elizabeth ("Bj") and Marc Kilbride of Houston, Texas. She is also survived by her grandchildren: Michelle Provost Friedel and husband, Peter, of Shokan, N.Y., Laura Provost Martin and husband, Bryan, of Vienna, Va.; Mary Kay Provost Doherty and husband, Jay, of Laconia, N.H. and Daniel Kilbride and wife, Megan, of Houston, Texas; her great grandchildren: Joseph and Andrew Friedel, Katelynn, Meagan and Brigette Doherty; Benjamin and Natalie Martin; her niece, Joanne Howieson Davis and her sister-in-law, Mrs. Gertrude Howieson, Worcester, Vermont.
For those desiring, memorial contributions can be made to one of the following charities: Vermont Land Trust, 8 Bailey Avenue, Montpelier, Vt. 05602 (802-223-5234); the Worcester Historical Society (worcestervthistoricalsociety.org), WHS at P.O. Box 329, Worcester, VT 05682; Meals on Wheels of Lamoille County, P.O. Box 1427, Morrisville, VT 05661 or the Central Vermont Humane Society (centralvermonthumane.org), CVHS P.O. Box 687, Montpelier, VT. 05601.
A funeral mass will be conducted at the Holy Cross Church, Brooklyn Street, Morrisville, on Saturday, May 9, 2015 beginning at 1:00 p.m. Interment will follow immediately thereafter at the Worcester Village Mountain Cemetery on Route 12. Arrangements are under Guare & Sons, 30 School Street, Montpelier, Vermont 05602; 802-223-2751.
East Montpelier - Mina L. Healy
....show , 67, of Northwood apartments, East Montpelier died November 28, 2015 at University of Vermont Medical Center.
Mina was born July 8, 1948 in Minneapolis, Minnesota to Loren and Evelyn (Carlson) Larson. She graduated from Bloomington High School in 1965 and Luther College in Decorah, Iowa with a Bachelor of Arts Degree in 1969.
Mina married Shawn M. Healy on September 8, 1979 in Wayzata, Minnesota. Mina was employed by the Vermont Department of Labor as a labor market analyst for 36 years. She was an avid reader, enjoyed traveling for work, visiting museums, spending time at the family cabin and the beaches of Maine. Mina enjoyed singing with the Barre Tones.
She is survived by her husband Shawn of East Montpelier, her daughter Sara Chase and her husband, Adam and her cherished grandson Liam all of Montpelier; her father, Loren and his wife, LouAnne of Ely, Minnesota; sisters, Nancy Marcy of Hopkington, MN; Amy Schmidt and her husband, Gary of Lakeville, MN; Meredith Boo and her husband, Mike of Plymouth, MN; brother Paul Larson and his wife, Carmelita of Tigard,OR; several nieces and nephews; her brother Thomas K. Larson predeceased her.
A funeral service will be held on Saturday, December 5, at 1:30 pm at Guare and Sons/Barber and Lanier Funeral Home, 30 School Street, Montpelier.
Memorial donations may be made to Central Vermont Humane Society, PO Box 687, Montpelier, VT 05601.
Francis R. "Dick", Herring
....show , 76, of VT Route 12 in Berlin died Saturday, April 25, 2015 at Central Vermont Hospital. He was born on December 5, 1938 in Montpelier the son of Francis W. and Gladys (Weston) Herring. Dick attended Riverton Elementary School and Montpelier High School while working a Milk route and working on the Herring Family Farm. Following his education he worked for ST. Grisworld out of Essex Jct, VT. He later joined the Vermont Army National Guard from 1957 until his discharge with the rank of Sergeant/ Acting 1st Sgt. in 1967. Also during that time he was a charter Member of the Berlin Volunteer Fire Department serving for over 20 years, 5 as Chief.
On June 27, 1959, he married the Julie Ann (Boyce) Falzarano at the Riverton United Methodist Church. They raised five children together at their home in West Berlin, VT. He worked in construction for 31 years with Lafayette and Sheldon Construction Company in Essex Jct., VT. He also had his own business plowing snow for many customers thru out the years.
He was a kind and caring man that would help his fellow neighbor at any time day or night. Survivors include his children; Richard, Ronald, Randy and spouse Penni, Rhonda, and Regina, five grandchildren, Tiffany, Samantha, Cory, Naomi, Renee and a future grandchild.
There are13 surviving siblings, 5 brothers and 8 sisters, and long time friend and companion Joy Renfrew. He was predeceased by his, Father, Francis W. and Mother, Gladys, Brothers, William (Butch), and David Herring.
A Funeral Service will be held at Guare & Sons/Barber& Lanier Funeral Home, 30 School Street, Montpelier on Saturday May 2, 2015 at 10:00am. An Escort by the Berlin Volunteer Fire department and color guard will be provided. The Burial will follow the service at Middlesex Center Cemetery.
A celebration of Francis (Dick's) life will follow at the Montpelier Elks #924 at 1:00pm all Friends and Family are welcome to attend.
Frank Alfred Hickory
....show , age 79, a resident of Montpelier, our beloved father, grandfather, brother and friend, passed away at the Central VT Medical Center in Berlin, on Monday, February 16, 2015 just two days shy of his 80th birthday.
Frank died surrounded by his loving children. Frank was a loving husband and fantastic father. Frank had a reputation for his quick witted good humor, charming personality and a smile that would melt your heart. He was affectionately known as "Popeye" to his grandchildren.
Frank was born in Waterbury Center, February 18, 1935, the son of the late Alfred and Ivis (Johnson) Hickory. Frank was married Sandra Jean Belanger. They raised their family in Montpelier. Sandra died April 9, 1993.
Frank was a 1953 graduate of Waterbury High School. He then enlisted in the U.S. Army where he was proud to serve. Upon his return to the states he was an employee of the National Life Insurance Co. in Montpelier and continued to serve with the Army Reserve, Always active and vital in the community, Frank was past Commander and life member of Brown-Johnson VFW Post 792 in Montpelier. He was also a life member of the American Legion Post #3 in Montpelier and a life member of the Elks Club 924.. During his later years he volunteered his time at Woodridge Rehabilitation in Berlin.
Frank coached & umpired little league refereed basketball games and took on numerous jobs to help support his family. He also helped to care for his elderly parents. In his leisure time Frank, who was an avid cross word puzzler, bowler, hunter and fisherman, enjoyed playing cards, golfing and traveling.
Frank is survived by his children Debby Hickory (Frank Leslie), of Barre, Mark Hickory (Cathy Hickory) of Essex, Michael Hickory ¬(Shannon Hanson), of Key Largo, Lisa Hickory (Don Smeall) of Ottawa, Ontario & Karen Brouillette (John Neddo) of Websterville; nine grandchildren, Christopher Magoon, Ben & Morgan Hickory, Tyler & Samantha Hickory, Collin & Casey Kennedy and Brianna & Dustin Brouillette; as well as nieces, nephews and other extended family. Frank is also survived by a wide circle of best friends. Frank was predeceased by wife, Sandra (Belanger), his parents Alfred & Ivis (Johnson) and his sister Ruthmary (Hickory) Biebel.
Frank’s family extends thanks for the wonderful care and companionship he received from the dedicated staff at Lincoln House in Barre. The family also extends thanks to Frank’s many friends and family members for their visits and support. He appreciated the support and kindness more than you can know, and in his memory, the family hopes that his friends will provide that loving support to those who may otherwise spend days alone.
Calling hours will on Friday, February 20, 2015 from 4:00-5:00 PM at Guare & Sons/Barber & Lanier Funeral Home, 30 School St., Montpelier. A memorial service will follow at 5:00 PM at the Funeral Home. A reception will be held immediately following at the VFW Post #792 in Montpelier.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that Memorial contributions be made to the Buck Lake Camp Scholarship Fund in Frank’s memory to Green Mountain Conservation Camps, Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department, 1 National Life Drive, Davis 2, Montpelier, VT 05620-3702
Margaret Nora (Barnett) Highter
....show , 97, of Montpelier, VT, passed away on Wednesday, November 4th, surrounded by her family. Margaret was born in Cabot, VT, on May 3, 1918, the daughter of the late John Barnett and Mary (Goslant) Barnett. Margaret attended school in Cabot and graduated from St. Michael’s High School, Montpelier, in June of 1936. Following her graduation, she worked in North Troy at a local bank. On July 28, 1941, she married Clement A. (Ted) Highter in Montpelier, VT. They moved to Bristol, CT, where Clement Highter worked for Pratt and Whitney in the New Departure area. They later moved to Montpelier, where they made their home and raised their four daughters. During those years, Margaret worked at Vermont College and the U.S. Post Office.
Margaret was a devoted mother and wife to her family and a loving grandmother to her ten grandchildren and nineteen great-grandchildren. Over the years, she had many friends and was an avid fan of the Boston Red Sox and the New England Patriots. She enjoyed her Time Magazine, her garden, and her sweets. Her delicious ginger cookies were fiercely coveted by all her grandchildren. She loved to be on the go to see new and different places and never turned down an invitation to travel. She was a member of St. Augustine’s Catholic Church and an active member of the St. Vincent’s DePaul Society.
She was predeceased by her parents; her sister, Lillian Bell; her brothers John Barnett, Warren Barnett, Lute Barnett, Norbert Barnett, and Glendon Barnett; sons-in-law Jeffry Turner and Gary Tyo; and her husband, Clement Highter, in 2001 to whom she was married for 60 years.
"Coonie", as her friends called her, is survived by her children Rae Marie Jacobs of South Burlington; Jerrilee Turner Silk (Jack) of Bonita Springs, FL; Laurey Tyo of Colchester; and Frances McAvoy (Gary) of Barre. She also is survived by her grandchildren, Karen Weed (Ray), Sarah Trombley (Mark), Jeffry Turner (Leslie), Janis Turner, Jason Turner, Tricia Tyo (James), Craig Tyo, Morgan Matson (Einar), Justin Lee (Pat), and Kristin Eisensmith (Chris) along with 19 great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.
A Memorial Service will be held at Guare and Sons Funeral Home in Montpelier on Saturday, November 21st at 11:00 a.m. A reception will follow immediately after at The Steak House Restaurant on Route 302 (Barre-Montpelier Road). There are no calling hours.
The family requests that in lieu of flowers a donation be made to a charity of choice. The family wishes to thank everyone at the Gazebo Apartments and Starr Farm Nursing Center for the wonderful care our mother received.
Judith Leigh Howard
....show , known as JLeigh, of Barre, passed into heaven with peace and love surrounded by her family and friends on March 16, 2015 at the Central Vermont Medical Center.
JLeigh was born on February 21, 1972 in Berlin, Vermont. She attended Barre City Schools for most of her childhood, graduating from South Burlington High School in 1990. In 1997, she graduated from Johnson State College summa cum laude with degrees in both Studio Art and Education. Also, at the time of her graduation, she received the Community Service Award.
Her professional career consisted of many interesting jobs including AmeriCorps and Habitat for Humanity. Many may remember her from Desso's Store in Jericho or the Meadow Mart in Montpelier. She was employed by IBM in Essex Junction for 12 years and recently found her life's calling by establishing JLeigh's Childcare in Barre.
Gardening, art, hiking (completing the Long Trail), camping, crafts and spending time with nieces and nephews were a few of her interests and hobbies. She was especially proud of her family genealogy and affiliation with the Vermont Society of Mayflower Descendants. JLeigh was very actively involved in the Green Mountain Pug Rescue program.
She is survived by her father Jeffrey K. Howard and his wife Pamela, her beloved grandmother Virgina K. Howard, sister Janet Tillou, brother Jonathan Howard,and extended family members Deborah, and Rebecca. Jleigh was blessed to have ten nieces and nephews Grady, Matthew, Evan, Madison, Joshua, Keira, Gavin, Will, Jamie, and Abby. She is also survived by uncles Patrick, Glenn, Bruce, a great-aunt Betty, aunts Jean, Carol, Sharon, Sandy and cousins Ashley, Ben, Meikel, Courtney, Meg, Drew, Stacey, and Misty. A special Pug dog named "JoLee" will miss her greatly.
JLeigh was predeceased by her mother Kay O'Brien, maternal grandparents, aunt, uncles and special paternal grandfather. The family wishes to express our deepest gratitude for the exceptional care given to Jleigh by the physicians and staff of the ICU and the Med-Surg Units at the Central Vermont Medical Center. Doctor Eltabbakh, Georgia Eltabbakh and the staff at the Lake Champlain Gynecologic Oncology in South Burlington will always have a special place in our hearts for the treatment and support given to Jleigh over the last thirteen years.
A celebration of JLeigh's life will be held on May 29, 2015 at 2:00 PM at the Guare and Sons Funeral Home, 30 School Street in Montpelier. VT. Condolences may be left on the Guare Web Site.
Contributions in JLeigh's name can be made to any of the following: Lotus Lake Camp Scholarship Fund, 4785 VT RT 14, Williamstown, VT 05679; Green Mountain Pug Rescue, C/O Phil Douglas Treasurer, 283 Town Line Road, Mendon, VT 05701; or Lamoille Area Cancer Network, 198 Farr Avenue, Morrisville, VT 05661.
Gretchen Patricia Hudson
....show , 79, of East Montpelier Village, died peacefully with her family around on Wednesday, June 24, 2015 at her home.
She was born on February 29, 1936, the daughter of Roland and Margaret Roberts. She attended West High School in Manchester, NH and graduated in the class of 1954. On May 25, 1957, she married James Hudson. He predeceased her on June 3, 2012. She was a home maker and she loved her children and taking care of her husband. She also enjoyed camping and snowmobiling with family and friends. She knitted and crocheted many afghans and blankets for her family which will last forever. She is finally at peace with her dear husband, Jim.
She was a bingo player and would play at many of the local clubs but especially enjoyed Thursday night bingo at the Canadian Club. Survivors include her daughters; Patti Spry and husband Tom of Haverlock, NC, Judi Hudson and Thom Ford of Graniteville, VT, Cathy Hudson of East Montpelier, VT, and Barbara Dustin and husband Rob of Layton, UT; sons, Mike Hudson and Mari Cato of Middlesex, VT and Matt Hudson and wife Lori of Marshfield, VT; grandchildren, Jeremy Spry of New York, Kassie Spry of North Carolina, Ashley Johnson of Utah, and Shelby Hudson of East Montpelier; great grandchildren Mason Spry of NY and Ellie Johnson of UT; brothers, Raymond Roberts of New Hampshire and Richard Roberts of Florida and many nieces and nephews from all over the country.
She was predeceased by her husband, Jim Hudson; sister, Mary Roberts; and brother, Rollie Roberts. There will be no calling hours. A memorial service will be held 1:00 pm on Monday, July 13, 2015 at the Vermont Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Randolph, VT.
Memorial contributions may be made to the East Montpelier Ambulance Service, P.O. Box 146, East Montpelier, VT 05651
Guy Lewis "Joe" Hutchinson
....show , 81, of Kent Street, Montpelier died Thursday, September 10, 2015 at Woodridge Nursing Home. He was born on June 20, 1934 in Roxbury, VT the son of Warner and Doris Hutchinson and attended schools in Randolph and graduated from Randolph High School in 1954.
Guy was married to the former Elizabeth "Betty" Murtagh at St. Augustine Catholic Church on June 11, 1955. Affectingly known as "Joe", he and Betty were regular customers at the Wayside Restaurant. He enjoyed hunting and fishing and camping with his family in Groton State Forest. He loved spending time with his family and out in the woods. He enjoyed working with his hands, especially carpentry work, fly tying and fixing "anything"!
Joe worked for many years at the National Life Insurance Company as a computer operator. He retired from there after 30+ years. He also worked for many years at Western Auto in Montpelier repairing bicycles.
Survivors include his wife, Elizabeth "Betty" Hutchinson of Berlin Health & ReHab Center; daughter, Anne Hutchinson of Duxbury, VT; son, Joseph Hutchinson of Bradenton, Florida; sister, Edith Jackson of Raynham, Mass; and several cousins. He was predeceased by his Foster parents, the Blodgetts; and brother, Everett "Pete" Hutchinson.
A Memorial Mass will be celebrated at 11:00 am, Wednesday, September 16th at St. Augustine Catholic Church, 16 Barre Street, Montpelier. A memorial reception will follow the Mass in the parish hall. Burial will be in the Murtagh family lot in St. Augustine Catholic Cemetery.
Memorial contributions may be made to: "Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department", in the Note field on check write: In honor of Guy L Hutchinson. Mail to: Bald Hill Fish Culture Station, 60 Abbott Hill Road, Newark, VT 05871
Calais, VT - John Francis Ihley
....show , 71, died at his home, after battling ALS, on Sunday, December 27, 2015. He was born in Providence, RI on May 4, 1944, the son of Howard F. and Cora P. (Lombardi) Ihley. He graduated from East Providence High School in 1962.
On August 27, 1977, he married Jo-Ann Jordan in Barrington, RI. After working in many sales fields, he honed his expertise in contract office furniture. In 1999 he and his family realized their dream of moving to Vermont. In 2003 he retired professionally and devoted his time to his family and community, volunteering at his parish’s soup kitchen.
He was an avid photographer, and contributor to the Rhode Island Audubon Society. A renowned audiophile, he also enjoyed entertaining friends and family and was an excellent cook. Pastimes included classic cars, the Red Sox, mushroom hunting and horses.
He is survived by his wife of 38 years, Jo-Ann Ihley and their son, Nicholas C. Ihley of Calais, VT. He was predeceased by his brother, David Ihley. A Memorial Mass will be held 11:00 am on Monday, January 4, 2016 at St. Augustine’s Church.
Montpelier, VT - Anne K. Johnson
....show , 99, entered into eternal life on March 2, 2015. Anne was born December 7, 1915 in New Britain Connecticut to Anthony and Monica (Gisavage) Kowalsky. She married Martin D. Johnson on June 8, 1940 in St. John Church, New Britain.
Anne retired from the Grove Hill Clinic OB/GYN Department in 1979. She was a communicant at St. Francis of Assisi Church, a member of The Ladies Guild and Altar Society. She was also a member of the Stanley Golf Club and the Woman’s Golf Club.
Anne and Martin moved to Montpelier in 1989. She is a member of St. Augustine Parish and the Catholic Daughters of the Americas. Anne was known for her skills with a sewing needle, knitting needles and paint brushes. She enjoyed a good book, a good card game, a challenging crossword puzzle and a good round of golf.
Anne’s strong devotion to her faith served as an example to her family. She leaves cherished memories to her son Martin Johnson Jr and wife Mary of Durham CT, daughter Susan DeMauro of Old Orchard Beach ME, and daughter Marna Canales and husband Richard of Montpelier; Nine Grandchildren, Richard Canales, wife Diane, Woburn, MA. Peter Canales, Montpelier, Karlynn Koenemann and husband Mark, Montpelier, and Joseph Canales and wife Lisa, Saco ME. Carie Costello and husband David, Falmouth ME, Jody Mancini and husband Michael, Kittery ME, Mark DeMauro and wife Erin, Wells ME. Kate Mastronunzio and husband Andrew, Chaplin CT, Monica D’Aria and husband Antonio, New Haven CT; twenty-one Great- Grand Children and two Great-Great Grand Sons.
The family would like to thank the staff of Rowan Court for the thoughtful care and many kindnesses shown to Anne, and a special Thanks to Susie at Heaton Woods for her "driving range" outings.
A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at noon, Saturday March 7th at St. Augustine Church Montpelier. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Augustine Church Soup Kitchen or Renovation Fund.
Montpelier, VT - Helen Bride Keating
....show was born September 27, 1920 in Bristol, CT to Michael and Anne (Hynds) Bride, Helen was the eldest of six children. All but her youngest sibling, Joseph of Enfield CT, predeceased her.
Adventurous of spirit and full of life, she took up downhill skiing, horseback riding and flying lessons in her youth, pushing 1930’s gender boundaries. Helen met Raymond Keating in the summer of 1947 at a New Departure employee dance party. They were married May 1, 1948 in St Joseph’s Church in Bristol, CT and they would have celebrated their 67th anniversary May 1.
She is survived by a large and loving family - Six children; Timothy of Los Angeles CA, Peter of Burlington VT, Kevin of Anchorage AK, Nancy of Ridgecrest CA, Paul of Montpelier VT and Thomas of South Berwick ME; and nine grandchildren scattered far and wide across the US - Brendan, Maeve, Alyssa, Myles, Davis, Liam, Devlin, Bennett, Owen; and two great grandchildren, Zoie, and Eric.
While raising her large family, she remained an avid bridge player and quilter, and worked for 15 years as a public school librarian. Retiring to Montpelier in 1985, she volunteered for many years at the Trinity Church food pantry and the St. Augustine’s Benefit Shop. She and Ray remained life-long Catholics, most recently as members of St. Augustine’s Parish.
A kind, caring, compassionate woman, Helen lived a long, happy and fulfilling life, always wishing the best for those around her and much less concerned about herself. She was loved and respected by all who knew her.
The family wishes to particularly thank Darcy Warner for her many years of compassionate care provided to Helen. In addition, fervent thanks to the staff of Heaton Woods for giving Helen a safe, comfortable and caring home in her final years and to Bayada Hospice for their wonderful efforts in her final month.
There will be no calling hours. A Funeral Mass will be held 11:00 am on Friday April 10, 2015, at St Augustine’s Church in Montpelier.
Barre, VT - Rita M. (Lague) Keefe
....show , 85, beloved wife of Maurice T. Keefe, passed away after a short illness on March 5, 2015. She was born in Newport, VT, on November 10, 1929, the youngest child of Israel E. and Vivian B. (Tetreault) Lague.
She was educated in the Sacred Heart School system and graduated from Trinity College in 1952. Prior to her marriage, she was a language teacher at Greensboro High School and later at Derby Academy.
She is survived by Maurice, her husband of 51 years; her children: Timothy, his wife Sybil, his daughter Meagan, and his stepdaughter Amelia, all of Shelburne; Pamela of China Grove, NC; and Terence, his wife Julie, and son Brendan, of Westford; two brothers-in-law, David Keefe and Foster Coburn, both of Newport; and several nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her parents and seven siblings, Thomas, Lucille (Mrs. Paul Gosselin), Philip, Albert, Anthony, Teresa (Mrs. Foster Coburn), all of Newport, and Raymond of Derby.
Honoring her wishes, there will be no public funeral services. Interment at St. Mary's Cemetery in Newport will be private and at the convenience of the family. Memorial contributions may be sent to Central Vermont Home Health & Hospice, Inc., 600 Granger Road, Barre, VT 05641
Montpelier, VT - Helen Christine Kew
....show , 89, formerly of Heaton Woods, died at the Rowan Court Nursing Home on Friday, October 9, 2015. She was born St. Albans, VT on April 14, 1926, the daughter of Marvin and Mary (Clark) Carter.
After moving to Montpelier in 1939, she attended the city’s public schools and graduated from Montpelier High School in 1944. In 1947, she married Rodney Kew. They later divorced.
She lived on North Street from 1966 until she entered Heaton Woods in 2007. Helen worked for the W.T. Grant department store for many years until it closed. She then worked for Edson’s Pharmacy, and the Capital Stationers until her retirement.
Survivors include her daughter; Jacqueline Piper and husband, Jeffrey of Shippensburg, PA; son, Victor Kew and wife, Stephanie of Willow Hill, PA; grandchildren, Andrea Frey, Ellen McAllister, James Frey, Debra Smith, John Frey all of PA, and Suzanne Kew of Idaho; 16 great grandchildren, and 1 great great granddaughter; and several nieces and nephews.
Calling hours were held on October 13, 2015. Her committal will be held privately. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the Central Vermont Humane Society, P.O. Box 687, Montpelier, VT 05651.
Springfield, VT/Stowe, VT - Joyce E. Lang
....show (91), formerly of Stowe and most recently of Springfield, VT, died at the Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center on October 29, 2015 surrounded by loved ones.
She was born on July 5, 1924 in Stowe, the daughter of Jerome and Effie (Shepard) Wilkins. She graduated from Stowe High School in 1942 and later attended nursing training at the Wellesley Children’s Hospital in Boston MA.
On January 22, 1944, she married Carroll Lang in Stowe. Mr. Lang predeceased her on February 18, 1984. She worked as a wife and mother on the Lang family Goldbrook Farm. There with much happiness she raised her family.
Joyce was a lifelong member of the Stowe Community Church. She belonged to several local organizations, including the Ladies Aid and the Eastern Star. She also took great pride in sharing her beautiful voice as a member of a singing trio from Stowe. The trio sang on the radio and at many other events.
Survivors include her children; Claudia Rabe and her husband Heinz of Germany, Lorelei Frohman and her husband Mark of Waterbury Center, VT, Stephen Lang and his wife Debbe of Albuquerque, New Mexico, Joy Benson and her husband Tim of Springfield, VT, Mark Lang of Stowe, VT, Carroll Lang, Jr of Moscow, VT, Patrick W. Lang and Betty Cenicola of Westwood, NJ, and Meghan Lang and her husband Douglas Proulx of Stowe, VT; She had a great love for her 11 grandchildren, 19 great grandchildren, multiple Neices and Nephews, her beloved "little man" Shadow and many life long friends.
She was predeceased by her 4 brothers and 2 sisters. There will be no calling hours. A memorial service will be held 2:00 pm on Friday, November 6, 2015 at the Stowe Community Church. The committal will be at a later date.
Memorial contributions may be made to the North Country Animal League, 16 Mountain View Rd., Morrisville, VT 05661 or The Stowe Community Church, PO Box 991, Stowe, VT 05672.
David L. Lathrop
....show , 77, formerly of McKinley Street in Montpelier, died on August 15, 2015. He was born in Buffalo, NY on August 8, 1938, the son of Lawrence and Clarabel (Haas) Lathrop.
He graduated from East Aurora High School in 1956, where he ran Varsity Cross Country and Track 1954-1956 Later, in 1961, he received his bachelor of science in Ceramic Engineering from Alfred University in New York. In 1972 he received his master’s degree from the University of Wisconsin where he was inducted in to the Sigma Pi Sigma, The National Physics Honor Society.
He began his career as a ceramics engineer in Gary, IN. Later he taught high school math and science in several schools in New York, Maine, and on a Wagon Train in Florida. He also coached Varsity Tennis at Hall-Dale High School in Maine.
His hobbies included tennis, camping, boating, dogs, playing Uno with his grand-daughters, and playing pool. He most enjoyed meeting and talking to new people, reading, and writing.
Survivors include his daughter; Rima Carlson and her husband Brian and their children, Anya and Estherline of Montpelier, VT; son, Jeffrey Lathrop and his wife Lisa and their children Emma, Camden, and Colton of Old Tappan, NJ; daughter Arica Ryersbach of Tuscon, AZ; and a sister Ellen Kociszewski of West Falls,
NY. There will be no calling hours. The family will hold a memorial service this fall in East Aurora, NY. Memorial contributions may be made by donating to FEJ-USA.org, a nonprofit that supports a school in Haiti.
Jean Lathrop
....show , 71, of Plainfield died unexpectedly on Thursday August 27, 2015 at her beloved home which was a part of the New Hamburger Community.
She was born on September 4, 1943 in Massachusetts, the daughter of the late Roger Lyndon, the noted mathematician and Barbara Whitmer. She was raised in Unity, New Hampshire by her mother, the later Barbara (Whitmer) Clark and the late Alan (Buddy) Clark. She received her BA and an MA in American Women's History from Goddard College. She then taught for many years in a Goddard College undergraduate program for low-income adults.
Jean had a boundless curiosity about all people and treated everyone as an equal. She was a beloved and widely known adult educator. She consulted, contributed to educational research and taught throughout Vermont. With her late partner David Palmer she also visited, taught and worked in Cuba and Nicaragua. She developed and directed the Vermont Refugee Assistance program and, with David, housed and befriended many individuals and families who were fleeing conditions in Central America and Africa.
Jean was an avid and informed reader and political activist. She worked for many years as a volunteer with women in Vermont's Corrections system. She was an ambitious, imaginative and proficient flower and vegetable gardener. She was an excellent cook and a generous host to her many visiting friends and their children.
Survivors include her son and daughter, Bruce and Marion Wickstrom, her daughter-in-law Cristina Madariaga, her grandson Sonny and the members of the New Hamburger community and many, many close friends.
A memorial service is planned for sometime during the 2015 Christmas holidays.
Barre Town, VT - Norma Lawrence
....show passed away on Monday, April 27, 2015. She was born on December 27, 1922 in Duxbury, VT, the daughter of Nancy Davis and step-daughter of Roy Davis of Jonesville, VT.
She married Harold Currier, now deceased, of Vergennes, VT in June of 1940. She married Matthew Lawrence from Richmond, VT on May 9, 1951. Norma retired from the Navy Exchange in Newport, RI, and spent many years as a Nurse’s Aide at the Newport, RI Hospital and at Heaton House, in Montpelier, VT.
She is survived by her husband Matthew, a son Robert Currier and his wife Ruth, a son Garry Lawrence and his wife Rachel, a son Harold Lawrence and his wife Jeannie, a daughter Carolyn Lawrence, a brother Richard Davis and his wife Shirley and several grandchildren, nieces and nephews.
A private burial will be held at the Holy Rosary Cemetery in Richmond, VT.
Calais, VT - Maureen A. Leno
....show , 70, of Bliss Pond Road passed away on Saturday, March 28, 2015 at the Berlin Health & Rehab Center.
Maureen was born on November 29, 1944, in Waterbury, VT, the daughter of the late William P. and Freda (Boyce) Quinn. She attended the Bradford Academy and graduated in the class of 1962.
She worked primarily as a mother raising her three boys. After they were grown, she worked for a number of places including; Legare’s Farm Market, Morse Farm, Vermont Life Magazine, and Maunsell Business Equipment. She also helped with the administration of her husband’s contracting business.
Survivors include her husband, Sterry Leno of Calais; sons, Sterry Leno, II of Barre, Travis Leno and his wife Carol of Georgia, Tyson Leno and his wife Sheila of Calais; nine grandchildren; Tia, Taela, Quinn, Ryan, Hannah, Rachel, Madelyn, Camden and Connor; brother, John Quinn and his wife June of Hardwick, and many nieces, nephews and extended family.
She was predeceased by her son, Shawn and by her siblings; Mary Dimick, Robert Quinn, Patrick Quinn, and Michael Quinn. Calling Hours will be held from 6-8:00 pm on Thursday, April 2, 2015 at the Guare & Sons Funeral Home, Montpelier. A committal service will be held in the spring.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Central Vermont Home Health & Hospice, Inc, 600 Granger Road- Berlin, VT 05641.
Margaret Lucenti
....show , 93, of Greenfield Terrace, Montpelier died unexpectedly on May 20, 2015 at the UVM Medical Center in Burlington. Margaret was born into a large Irish-Catholic family in Manchester N.H. the daughter of Bridget Louise Cullity and Martin Joseph Foye. She graduated from the Saint Joseph High School for Girls in Manchester, N.H. During her childhood, her parents and other family members, including Margaret herself, worked in the shoe and textile mills of N.H. Millwork had a significant influence on Margaret’s social activism later in life.
In Manchester she met and later in 1943 married Sal, a young soldier from New York City. As a young mother of a career military man she raised her five children. She bonded her family together as she followed him in his career or as she waited and maintained the household while he was on duty elsewhere in service to his country. In 1960, Sal retired from the military and they moved the family to Barre. She was an active member of St. Monica’s Church. They later moved to Marshfield and eventually to Montpelier. It was in Barre that Margaret began her career in the insurance industry working for agents in both Barre and Montpelier.
It was in Central Vermont in the early 1960s that Margaret found her voice for social justice, community betterment and service to the community. She became a dynamic leader and activist for social justice and equal rights. In 1975, she was appointed by Gov. Salmon as the first chairperson of the Vermont Human Rights Commission. She was also Chairperson of the Vermont Delegation to the 1976 Democratic Convention in her role as a Vermont National Democratic committeewoman, a candidate for the Vt. House of Representatives and the Washington County Senate seat in 1978. She was also the first woman to run in a Democratic primary in Vt. for the US House of Representatives in 1974. Her commitment to civic participation by continuous active involvement on town, county and State Democratic committees, often serving as an officer, was most admirable. This included her long tenure as a Justice of the Peace. Margaret also served as board member of the Washington Electric Coop from 1976-1978.
When many would be thinking of retirement Margaret maintained her active civic participation and pursued a new career as a committee assistant at the Vermont General Assembly. There she worked with the Senate Committee on Judiciary for over 25 years.
Upon her retirement at age 90 the Vt. General Assembly in a Joint Resolution of Appreciation of her work stated "it was a fitting assignment for a woman dedicated to the rule of law as an avenue to achieve social justice." In recognition of her efforts over many years for promoting social justice she was awarded the David Curtis award in 2004.
During all Margaret’s years of social activism and community participation her office was her kitchen. Many Vt. politicians and activists passed through her kitchen to engage in discussions on the issues of the day. But no matter whether you agreed or disagreed with Margaret she found each and every individual worthy of respect and caring. Those who knew Margaret will always remember her smile, her humor, and her stories. But most of all those who knew her, will remember her strong voice and commitment to civic participation and concern for individual, family and community well being.
Margaret’s love and active caring for family and community was an example to follow for all who knew her. Survivors include sons and daughters Eileen Blake and her husband Paul, of Waterbury Center Vermont, Martin Lucenti and his wife Candy, of Ipswich, Mass. Robert Lucenti and his wife Laine, of Berlin, Vermont, Marianne McNamara and her husband Robert, of South Burlington, Vermont, James Lucenti of Montpelier, Vermont, and a sister Anne Campaiola of Methuen, Mass. She is also survived by ten grandchildren, sixteen great-grandchildren, and several nieces and nephews.
She was predeceased by siblings, William Foye, Mary Lynch, Anthony Foye, and Alice Burke, her grandson Damien Lucenti and her husband Salvatore Lucenti who died on April 4, 2015.
Calling hours will be held from 6 to 8 p.m. on Wednesday May 27, 2015 at the Guare & Sons Funeral home. A Funeral Mass will be held on Thursday May 28, 2015 at 10 a.m. at St. Augustine Church in Montpelier.
A Committal Service for Margaret and Sal will be held immediately following the Mass at the Berlin Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that contributions may be made to the Vermont Food Bank care of Melissa Baptiewright at 33 Parker Road, Barre, VT 05641 or Central Vermont Home Health and Hospice at 600 Granger Road, Barre, VT 05641.
Montpelier - Salvatore Joseph Lucenti
....show , 95, of Greenfield Terrace, died on Saturday, April 4, 2015 at his home surrounded by his wife of 72 years and his loving family.
Sal was born in New York City, the son of Emanuele and Carmela (Montes) Lucenti. As an infant, his family returned to their homeland in Ragusa, Sicily. They immigrated back to New York City when Sal was 12 years old. He attended New York City public schools and graduated from the Manhattan School of Aeronautics in 1939.
Sal enlisted in the United States Army Air Corps in 1939, where he served as an airplane mechanic and radar technician. He was stationed in Italy during World War II and in Okinawa during the Korean War and honorably discharged in 1960. After his military career, he worked for the FAA as an air traffic controller at the Barre Montpelier Airport and retired in 1987.
Sal and family lived in Barre Vt for many years. He was an active member of St. Monica's Church. He later moved the family home to New Discovery Road in Marshfied. There, he found the "living in the country lifestyle" he desired. Upon his retirement he moved to Montpelier. There, he spent many hours working away in his yard. A great pleasure to Sal was meeting his neighbors and making friends in each community he called home.
To Sal there was great joy in spending time with his family and he especialy enjoyed summer gatherings at his camp "Kil Kare" on Joe's Pond. He always took time and care to support his many grandchildren and great grandchildren. He was pleased with the resuls of his efforts to strongly promote the reconnection of his immediate family with his extended family in Sicily.
Sal was a loving husband and a good father. He always promoted the bonds that connected his family. His willingness to lend a helping hand to those in need was most exemplary.
Survivors include his wife, Margaret (Foye) Lucenti of Montpelier; sons and daughters Eileen Blake and her husband Paul of Waterbury Center, VT, Martin and his wife Candy of Ipswich, MA, Robert and his wife Laine of Berlin, VT, Marianne McNamara and her husband Robert of South Burlington, and James of Montpelier, VT; sister, Carmela Bauco and her husband, Jerry of Wappinger Falls, NY; ten grandchildren and sixteen great grandchildren as well as several nieces and nephews.
He was predeceased by his grandson, Damien Lucenti and his brother, James Lucenti Calling hours will be held from 6-8:00 pm on Friday, April 10, 2015 at the Guare & Sons Funeral Home. A Funeral Mass will be held on Saturday April 11 at 12 noon at St. Augustine’s Church in Montpelier, VT
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that contributions may be made in his memory to Central Vermont Home Health and Hospice, 600 Grainger Road, Barre, VT 05641
David Robert Lupien
....show , 73, of Tilden House, South Main Street, Barre died at his home on October 20, 2015. He was born in Montpelier on October 9, 1942, the son of Leon and Grace Lupien. David received his education in Montpelier Grade School and High School.
Following his education, David enlisted in the U.S. Air Force and served proudly in the mid 1960’s. He was a member of the Barre American Legion Post # 10, and the Canadian Club. David was an avid hunter and fishermen, he loved to go camping, play his guitar, enjoyed cooking and doing many other activities with his family.
David is survived by six daughters, Rose McAllister and her husband, Richard of East Montpelier; Nicole Lupien of Barre; Tammy Miller and her husband, Luke of Roxbury, VT; Debbie Lupien of CA; Isabelle Rutledge of Rutland, VT; Christine Webb and her husband, Jason of Berlin; two sons, Robert Poulen and his wife, Jennifer of Barre; and David Richardson of Barre; 18 grandchildren and 1 great granddaughter.
He is also survived by his siblings, Betty Messier and her husband, John of Island Pond; Patty McGrath and her husband Fred of Graniteville; Barb Boutin of Graniteville; Carrie Wynne of Oceanside, CA; Sara Lupien of Barre; Sandy Moote and her husband, Louie of Orange; and Cindy Barr and her husband Frank of West Berlin; a brother, George Lupien of Carney Point, NJ; and many nieces and nephews.
David was predeceased by an infant daughter, Crystal Lupien;parents, Leon and Grace Lupien; sister, Susan Lupien and two brothers, James and Erwin Lupien. Calling hours will be held on Friday, October 23rd from 11am - 1:00pm at Guare and Sons Funeral Home, with a funeral service beginning at 1:00 pm. Burial will follow at Green Mount Cemetery.
Memorial contributions may be made to Vermont Heart Association, 312 Hurricane Lane, Williston, VT 05495.
Elizabeth H Lynch
....show passed away on October 7 at Central Vermont Medical Center after a brief illness. She was 97. Beth was born in New York City on November 11, 1917 to Anton and Anna Marie (Gotwald) Schrama. She graduated from Wayne University in Detroit with a degree in physical education. She taught in the Detroit public schools system, and then returned to New York City where she married Don Lynch on July 11, 1947. In 1950 they moved to Upper Nyack, NY. She resided in Montpelier, Vt since 2006.
She taught physical education in elementary schools and the high school in the Nyack Public Schools system for 22 years. During that time she coached several sports teams, conducted summer tennis clinics, and helped create the Nyack High School dance troupe known as the "Indianettes" that performed at major sporting events.
Beth's interest in athletics began at an early age which led to her career in physical education. In a single year at Commerce High School in Detroit, she was captain of the field hockey, basketball and tennis teams. During that same year she was the highest scoring basketball player in Detroit and played the number one position on the tennis team.
She was the winner of nine Rockland County, NY tennis titles including one singles, four mixed doubles and five women's doubles. After retiring from teaching she joined the Eastern Tennis Umpires Association (ETUA). She officiated many professional tennis tournaments at the US Open, Madison Square Garden, Virginia Slims and several amateur and professional tournaments in the tri-state area. In 1983 she was the first recipient of the Jack Stahr Award for her outstanding work with the ETUA. In later years she remained an avid fan of the New York Yankees and professional tennis tournaments.
Throughout most of her life she was active in theater as an actress and costumer. In a story written about her it was said: "The director whose show is costumed by Beth Lynch has a feather in his cap". A critic's review of one of her productions referred to her as "Rockland County's First Lady of Costumes". A designer of impeccable taste and imagination, she was known for her meticulous research and accuracy when costuming historical eras. Beth costumed theatrical productions for Elmwood Playhouse for 23 years. She dressed Coupe's Nutcracker for seven years. She costumed productions for off-off Broadway, regional theaters, PBS TV, independent movies and public schools. She toured her vast collection of costumes in styles going back to medieval times primarily as fundraisers for volunteer and charitable organizations. In 1991 she was presented the Rockland County Executive Arts Council Award for her long-time contribution to the arts. She was a member of Grace Episcopal Church in Nyack and for many years sang in its choir.
She is survived by her daughter Beth Ann Lynch of Raleigh, NC, and sons James and his wife Margaret of Barre, Vt, Peter and his wife Diane of Duxbury, Vt and grandchildren Petr Lynch of Raleigh, NC, Elizabeth Phillips of Tampa, Fl, Shane, Justin and Daniel Lynch of Montpelier, Vt, Nicholas Lynch of Milwaukee, Wi. And three great grandchildren. She was predeceased by her husband Donald in 1998.
Special thanks go to Millie Brumback, Laurie and Danielle Kelty, Meri Nielsen and Robin Rattazzi; friends who helped with her basic needs and brightened her days. A funeral service will be held on October 17 11:00 at Bethany Church, Main St Montpelier. Funeral arrangements are handled by Guare and Sons in Montpelier. Information about floral arrangements can be obtained from the funeral home.
David M. Mahoney
....show , 70, of Berlin, VT died unexpectedly but peacefully at his home on April 27, 2015. Born on May 4, 1944 in Newport, RI, he was the son of Timothy J. Mahoney and Eleanor A. (Mcnamara) Mahoney.
He attended Arlington High School and received a Bachelor of Arts degree from Northeastern University, going on to receive his Juris Doctor from Suffolk University Law School.
David was most recently employed by Fidelity Investments and Comcast. David will be deeply missed by many friends and neighbors in Woburn and Belmont, MA where he resided most of his life.
He leaves behind his beloved wife of more than 40 years Susanne M. (Smith) Mahoney of Berlin, VT as well as his two children: Michael D. Mahoney of Mashpee, MA and Lisa J. (Mahoney) Mancauskas of Montpelier, VT along with her husband Peter J. Mancauskas and their two children Sonya and Soren Mancauskas. He also leaves behind his two sisters Gail P. Mahoney of Cape Coral, FL and Kathleen J. Mootrey of Fort Myers, FL and her husband Warren Mootrey as well as their three children Janel, James & Meghan.
David's Funeral Mass will be held at 11am on May 1st 2015 at St. Augustine Parish Church, 16 Barre St., Montpelier, VT. A public viewing will be held on the same morning of May 1 from 9-10:30am at Guare & Sons, 30 School St. Montpelier, VT.
Memorial contributions in David's memory may be made to the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation.
Mary Jane ("MJ") Manahan
....show of Montpelier, who directed children’s services for a generation at the Kellogg-Hubbard Library, died Wednesday, April 8, at Central Vermont Medical Center. She was 61.
During her tenure at the library from 1993 to 2008, she was instrumental in every phase of a major construction project that transformed the children’s library. The "Children’s Room" moved from a damp basement in the 1896 building to the second floor of a $2 million wood and granite addition, the Patrick Leahy Wing, which was completed in 2001.
The daughter of Roderick David Manahan and Katherine Manahan Moran of Dunellen, N.J., she was born in Elizabeth, N.J. She attended St. John the Evangelist School in Dunellen and graduated from Holy Trinity High School in Westfield, N.J., Class of 1972. She then earned a bachelor’s degree in journalism from Rider College in Lawrenceville, N.J.
Upon graduation, she worked as a reporter for the Courier News of Bridgewater, N.J. before beginning a career in education. For seven years, she was an elementary teacher at Sundance School, a private pre-K through fifth grade school in North Plainfield, N.J. After moving to Vermont, she home-schooled her son, Fred.
In 1993, she became children’s librarian at the Kellogg-Hubbard, where her lively storytimes regularly drew more than 50 preschoolers, parents and grandparents. Amid readings, songs and craft projects, she introduced science, history, literature, sign language and even (with the help of students from New England Culinary Institute) cooking.
In the mid-1990s, she instituted three annual family events that have been among the library’s most popular – the July 3 Lawn Party, the August Tie-Dye Fest and the October Halloween Party.
Her advocacy for the building project grew out of frustration with flooding in the basement amid signs that mold could destroy the children’s collection. She helped coordinate the planning, funding, design, construction and implementation of the addition.
Architectural changes that she pressed for were adopted: adding air conditioning and, after she personally paced off the proposed dimensions, more space for shelving. She successfully urged that interior decor in the children’s library should not look childish. The rooms came to be finished in the dignified colors and enduring textures of a university library. But she also made sure the children could enjoy a fish tank, a train set, and plenty of natural light and indoor plants.
When Sen. Jim Jeffords, I-Vt., procured nearly $1 million in federal funding for outreach programs at Vermont libraries, Mary Jane helped win $215,000 of it for a Kellogg-Hubbard bookmobile in 2003. The program, run in conjunction with the library at U-32 High School and Wheels transportation agency, served families in Berlin, Calais, East Montpelier, Middlesex, Montpelier and Worcester for four years.
The bookmobile was dubbed the VanGo and emblazoned with large decals of sunflowers reflecting her favorite artist, Vincent Van Gogh. In the spring of 2005 the children’s library gained media attention when she initiated a project for children to tag and release a flotilla of plastic ducks in the Winooski River. Some traveled more than 50 miles and a few were found in Lake Champlain, to the delight of patrons who followed each reported sighting on a map in the library.
An avid reader of nonfiction, she prided herself on building an impressive nonfiction collection for the Kellogg-Hubbard’s young adult readers. She also influenced the adult library’s nonfiction holdings with continual suggestions. As a member for a dozen years of the "Rapid Reviews" team, which presented annually at Vermont Library Association conferences, she encouraged nonfiction acquisitions in libraries throughout the state.
Among her nonfiction fascinations were movies, ranging from art-house classics to Hollywood’s latest; European royals; the Titanic; and American history, especially the Founders and the Civil War.
She also served on committees of the state library association and as vice president and president of its group called CAYAL (Children and Young Adult Librarians) in 1994 and 1995. She co-chaired the 1996 VLA statewide conference.
From 1996 to 2008 she served as a member of the Board of Advisors to the Children’s Literacy Foundation. This public charity has promoted childhood reading by donating millions of dollars in books to schools and libraries throughout Vermont and New Hampshire, especially those serving low-income, at-risk, and rural children.
Her greatest loves and passions, apart from her family and friends, were literacy, children and animals. Her love of children was on display until the last years of her life, when she taught as a substitute at all levels in the Montpelier Public Schools, worked as a nanny, and led enthusiastic, witty tours for school groups as well as tourists at the Vermont Statehouse.
Recreationally, she enjoyed water sports, hiking, biking, and working out in her home gym. Her favorite travel destinations were Caribbean islands off the beaten track, especially Jost Van Dyke and Anegada in the British Virgin Islands.
She is survived by her mother, Katherine Moran Manahan of Montpelier; a son and daughter-in-law, Fred and Carol Manahan of Montpelier; a grandson, Will Manahan; two brothers and sisters-in-law, Thomas and Geri Moore Manahan of New Brunswick, N.J., and James and Mary Manahan of Newtown, Pa.; a sister and brother-in-law, Margaret and Jack Regan of Oak Bluffs, Mass.; a sister, Elizabeth Manahan of Montpelier; five nephews; three nieces; and a longtime friend, Thomas Simonet of Yardley, Pa.
Arrangements are by Guare and Sons Funeral Home, 30 School St., Montpelier, Vt. 05602, (802) 223-2751. On Saturday, April 18, visiting hours will be held at the funeral home from 10 a.m. to noon, followed by a memorial service at noon.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be sent to the Kellogg-Hubbard Library, 135 Main St., Montpelier, Vt. 05602, designated for the Mary Jane Manahan Memorial Fund.
Arlene M. Manning
....show , 82, of Barre Street, Montpelier died Thursday, May 14, 2015 at her home. She was born June 7, 1932 in Moretown, VT the daughter of Allen and Avis (Goodell) Smith and received her education at Jones Brook Elementary School in Moretown.
For many years Arlene worked as a machine operator for Sprague Electric Capacitor Plant in Barre. On June 8, 1957, she married Arthur P. Manning at St. Augustine’s Catholic Church.
Arlene was an avid bingo player, a faithful and dedicated member of the Moose Club in Barre where she received the College of Regents degree in 2001 and the Red Stole in 2004. She also held several offices for the Women of the Moose. She also was a life member of the Canadian Club.
She is survived by her husband, Arthur P. Manning of Montpelier; daughters, Charlene Edson of West Topsham, VT; Pamela Lee of Florida; Marsha Manning of Montpelier; and Tina Manning of Montpelier; sons, Artie Manning of Montpelier; and Christopher Manning of Montpelier; sister, Betty LaPlante of West Topsham, VT; brothers, Kenneth Smith of Montpelier; Timmy Smith of Northfield; and Richard Smith of CT; eight grandchildren and nine great grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.
Arlene was predeceased by two sisters, Pauline Ruggles and Barbara Merrill, four brothers, Ralph Smith, Frank Smith, Rodney Smith and Earl Smith. A Funeral mass will be held at 11:00 am, Wednesday, May 20th at St. Augustine’s Catholic Church 16 Barre Street, Montpelier. Memorial contributions may be made to the Central Vermont Home Health and Hospice, 600 Granger Road-Berlin, Barre, VT 05641.
Francis J. (Joe) Manning
....show , of Mason, Arizona, died Thursday, December 24, 2015 at the Veterans Hospital in Phoenix, Arizona. He was born in Barre on May 10, 1935 the son of Percy W. and Mildred (Devino) Manning. He attended Jones Brook School and Montpelier High School and later got his GED. On September 1st, 1956 Francis enlisted in the United States Air Force, where he served until his honorable discharge on March 31, 1960. He married Hester Hale. They made their home in Southington, CT. They later divorced. He worked at the Waterbury Anker Fasteners and Mt. Southington Ski Area.
He moved back to Vermont in 1991 and worked for Wheels for awhile and would go to Arizona for the winters. He always stopped in Bronson, Missouri. He was a close friend of Box Car Willie. He loved Karokee and singing. Francis belonged to the Moose Club and the American Legion. While in Arizona he helped with the Swing Kids run by Bill Clinton. He also belonged to the Appachee Junction Karokee.
Survivors include his brothers, Arthur Manning of Montpelier; Raymond Manning and his wife, Tina of Northfield; sisters, Mary Kelley of Northfield; Anne Rogers and her husband, David of Marshfield; Elaine Isham and her husband, Ross of Moretown; Teresa Brooks of Meriden, CT; and a sister-in-law- Yvonne Manning of Montpelier and many nieces and nephews.
Besides his parents he was predeceased by his brother, William and Thomas Manning; sister-in-law, Arlene Manning; brothers-in-law, Raymond Kelley and Myron Brooks. Services and Military Honors will be held in the spring. The family would like to thank Charlie and Grace Hale, and Beverly Winchell for being there for Francis and helping him out.
Memorial contributions may be made to Vermont Kidney Foundation, PO Box 244, Burlington, VT 05402-0244
Howard Wesley Martin
....show , 88, of Montpelier, passed away on Valentine’s Day, February 14, 2015 at Central Vermont Hospital. Born in Montpelier on April 3, 1926, he was the son of Elliot D. Martin and Elva Chase. He attended school in Montpelier. After high school, he found a job sanding floors and thought he might be able to make a living from this type of business. Eventually he bought an old granite shed on River Street and over 20 years converted it to Martin’s Home Center. Martin’s Home Center provided services such as sanding of hardwood floors in both homes and commercial buildings and schools, electrical, plumbing, carpet cleaning and installation of kitchens along with the related sales of carpet, linoleum, ceramic tile, kitchen cabinets and furniture. After selling this business in the 80s, he continued providing refinishing of hardwood floors and started a distribution business until he retired in 1996.
He married Adena Belville on July 24, 1951 at the Trinity United Methodist Church and lived on East State Street most of his married life. Howard was a member of Lion’s Club for over 40 years and a former King Lion. He went through various degrees of the York Rite and Scottish Rite (32 degrees) of the Masonic Temple. He became a Mason around 1947 – more than 65 years ago. He has been a member of the Elk’s Club for more than 61 years and a lifetime member of the Canadian Club and a member of the Mutuo Club. Previously, Howard was also a member and President of the Kiwanis Club.
In 1949, Howard became a volunteer ski patrol at Mad River Glen. In 1952, he became a National Ski Patrol and in 1960, Howard was one of three National Ski Patrol from the East accepted to be a volunteer patrol at the 1960 Winter Olympics at Squaw Valley. This was the first time the Olympics allowed volunteer ski patrol to watch over participants. He enjoyed skiing everywhere – Mt. Charmonix in France, Valdesare in Italy and helicopter skiing in the Bugaboos in British Columbia to name a few. Howard also enjoyed softball and played in and sponsored many teams. Hockey, pool and table tennis were also very important parts of Howard’s life.
Survivors include his beloved daughter, Diane Martin-Tryhane and her husband Peter Tryhane, and his grandchildren Wesley Martin Tryhane and Katie Anne Tryhane all of Stamford, CT. He was predeceased by his wife in October 2014.
Memorial services will take place on Saturday, May 16 at 11 am at the Trinity United Methodist Church in Montpelier. Arrangements are being handled by the Guare & Sons Funeral Home. Contributions in his memory may be made to the Stark Mountain Foundation (these gifts will be restricted for the Mad River Ski Patrol), PO Box 1221, Waitsfield, VT 05673, the Lion’s Club, PO Box 211, Barre, VT 05641 or the Barre Elks Lodge #1535 Scholarship Fund, Attn: Secretary, PO Box 245. Barre, VT 05641 or Boutwell Masonic Building Association, 288 Gallison Hill Road, Montpelier, VT 05602.
Phyllis C. Martin
....show , 64, of Barnes Road in East Montpelier entered into eternal joy on Friday, July 10, 2015 at her home surrounded by her loving family.
She was born in Chelsea, MA on July 8, 1951, the daughter of David and Anne (Archibald) Goodrich. She graduated from Peabody High School in 1969. She then attended Bunker Hill Community College. After putting her education on hold for several years, Phyllis later graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree from the Vermont College in 2001.
On June 26, 1981, she married Richard Martin in Medford, MA. She worked as a manager of Human Resources for the Department of Public Safety. She and her husband were communicants of St. Augustine’s Catholic Church. They both became members of Notre Dame de Vie in October 2014. This is a spiritual family in the Church based on Carmelite spirituality and prayer.
Survivors include her husband, Richard Martin of East Montpelier; son, David Martin of San Diego, CA; daughter, Anna Martin of San Diego, CA; mother, Anne Goodrich of Waterbury, VT; sister, Anne Kinley and her husband Tom of Waterbury, VT; in-laws, Dan and Sharon Martin of Calais, VT; Rex and Susie Martin of Boca Raton, FL, and several beloved nieces and nephews.
She was predeceased by her father and a brother, Glenn Goodrich. Calling hours will be held 6:00-8:00 pm on Thursday, July 16, 2015 at the Guare & Sons Funeral Home in Montpelier. A Funeral Mass will be held at 11:00 am on Friday, July 17, 2015 at St. Augustine’s Catholic Church in Montpelier. Committal prayers will follow at Doty Cemetery in East Montpelier, VT.
Montpelier, VT - C. Allen Merritt
....show 91, of Westview Meadows, passed away on Friday, May 22, 2015 at his home surrounded by his family. Mr. Merritt was born in Brooklyn NY, in 1924. Shortly thereafter, his parents, Earl & Flavilla Merritt, returned with him to Chester, VT. During his earlier years he attended schools in VT, NY, PA and Ohio. He graduated from the St. Johnsbury Academy in June 1943. Immediately after graduation he was inducted into the U.S. Army, serving three Years in Assam, India, as a Medical Technician attached to the 745th Railway Operating Battalion.
Following service he attended North Central College, Naperville, IL and the University of Chicago where he met and married Phyllis Brand. He was the Personnel Manager for Marshall Field & Co and Ass’t Manager of their Oak Park, IL store.
In 1952, desiring to return to VT, he and his wife, Phyllis, and son, Kenneth moved to Williston, VT. Mr. Merritt worked for the Mary Fletcher Hospital until he accepted the position of Director of Revenue Accounting for The St. Johnsbury Trucking Co. This position led Mr. Merritt to join the IBM Corp in Poughkeepsie, NY. He spent over thirty years with IBM and retired in 1983.
During his years with IBM, he authored several Technical Journal articles and book chapters on micro processing and information retrieval. His lectures where given in several universities in the U.S., as well as the University of Edinburgh and London College of Advanced Technology.
After his retirement, Mr. Merritt was able to live on the "family farm" in Middlesex, where he raised sheep, enjoyed hunting and the many benefits of nature. He worked part time at two local stores Downing’s and Steve’s markets and finally at the Wayside Restaurant. He was a long time Guardian Ad Litem for the Washington County Family courts and a Hospice Volunteer.
Mr. Merritt leaves his widow, Phyllis after 67 years of marriage, a son, Kenneth, of Katonah, NY, a daughter and son-in-law, Kristen and Michael Lynch, three grandchildren, Timothy, Meaghan, and Kelly Lynch of East Montpelier, 2 great grandchildren Wyatt and Adelyn Lunde, as well as some very special friends, Mardie and Larry Noles, Robert & Carol Barton, and Rose Leo.
Calling hours will be held from 6:00-8:00pm on Tuesday, May 26, 2015 at the Guare & Sons Funeral Home. Funeral services will be held at the Christ Episcopal Church on Wednesday, May 27, 2015 at 2:00pm in Montpelier. A burial will be held at the convenience of the family at the family plot in Chester, VT.
A Celebration of the life of Phyllis Brand Merritt
....show will be held in Bethany United Church of Christ, Montpelier, VT on Wednesday August 5, 2015 at 11:00, with internment to follow at the family plot in Chester, VT. Phyllis was called to join her husband on August 2, 2015.
Phyllis was born on 12/27/26 in St Paul Minnesota to Helen Amanda (Kissner) Brand and the Reverend Edward Ferdinand Brand. All elementary school years were in Minnesota, with
graduation from Winona High School, followed by graduation from Mankato Business College. She then left Minnesota to attend North Central College, Naperville, IL where she met and married her
husband, C. Allen Merritt who predeceased her on May, 22, 2015 after 67 years of marriage. After a 20 year hiatus to be a homemaker, mother, community and church volunteer with
intermittent jobs as secretary to Vassar College president, two ministers, two manufacturing executives and a Probate Judge, Phyllis returned to college to complete her education. She received
her BA from Johnson State College and her Master in Human Service Administration from UVM in 1985. During this time she worked as a Family counselor for the Washington County Youth Service
Bureau, later with the Council on Aging and before retirement for the Community Resource Development of Washington County Mental Health. The continuing interest of her life, besides a deep love for her family and the blessings of a long and wide circle of friends, were: Music, books, discussions and support groups, personal development and
spiritual growth, capped by a joyous and intense love of playing tennis. After a severe stroke she continued with much of her interests as her body allowed, always positive and upbeat, laughing at
her own shortcomings. The foundation of her life, grounded in her family of origin, was a conscious commitment to serve Jesus Christ in the world – seeking freedom of choice, justice, peace and equal
opportunity for all. Surviving are a son, Kenneth Merritt of Katonah, NY a daughter and son-in-law, Kristen and Michael Lynch, three grandchildren, Timothy, Meaghan and Kelly Lynch of East Montpelier, 2 great
grandchildren Wyatt and Adelyn Lunde. Raised as siblings since infancy were her twin niece and nephew: Diane Stryker and David Blanchard. Also surviving are numerous nieces and nephews
salting all parts of the earth. Special friends Helen Jean Reindel, Rose Leo, Mardie and Larry Noles, Carol Howard, Robert Barton and her many friends at Westview Meadows. Besides her husband, she was predeceased by her siblings Helen Brand Blanchard of Minnesota, Lowell Brand of St Louis, Alton Brand of Seattle and Carlyle Brand of Aurora, NY.
Because of her life-long love of the church and avid interest in its mission work locally and throughout the world, Phyllis requested that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to the Bethany
United Church of Christ, 115 Main Street, Montpelier, VT 05602, for the express use of the Outreach/Mission Board.
Barbara Ann Millar
....show , 88, died Saturday, September 5th at Heaton Woods in Montpelier, after a long illness. Her family had been at her bedside. Born September 24, 1926, in Waltham, Massachusetts, she was the daughter of Carl E. Backman and Margaret (Tuttle) Backman. After graduating from high school, she attended Colby College in Maine. She worked at the National Life Insurance Company in Montpelier for many years. At the time of her retirement, she held the position of computer systems analyst.
In April of 1948, she married Robert Locke Millar, in Massachusetts. Together they moved to Vermont and raised a family, first living in Essex Junction, then settling in Montpelier. He died in 1975. Barbara had a lifelong love of all things outdoors, including sailing, skiing, mountain climbing, tennis, swimming, skating, kayaking, and bicycling. She taught all of her children to ski almost as soon as they could walk, and took great pleasure in teaching them as many outdoor activities as she could, instilling a love of nature and the outdoors in all her children. She particularly loved sailing and skiing and spent much of her retirement sailing on Lake Champlain. In April of 1984, she married longtime companion Gladwyn Utton of Montpelier. They spent many happy times sailing together and visiting the ocean in Maine, which Barbara loved. He died in 1985. In her later years, Barb traveled widely, sailing and hiking in remote places, and visiting unique sites such as the Galapagos Islands. She hosted many family gatherings at her home, and particularly enjoyed picking out special gifts for her grandchildren.
Barbara was a longtime member of the Green Mountain Club, hiking many of the mountains of Vermont, often with her dog Holly at her side. As an expression of her love of animals, birds, and the outdoors, she also held memberships in organizations dedicated to the protection of animals and wilderness, including The Humane Society and many others.
Barbara is survived by four children: Laurie King and husband David, of Montpelier; Bruce Millar and wife Laura of Essex Junction, VT; Sue Millar and fiance Steven Graves of Barre, VT and Fairfax, VT; and Richard Millar of Shelburne, VT. Barbara also cherished the memory of her infant daughter Amy Sue, who died in 1955. She leaves six grandchildren and five great-grandchildren, her brother Roger Backman and wife Gloria, of Wayland, Massachusetts; sister-in law Betty Backman of Kittery, Maine, and eight nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her younger brother, Carl, Betty's husband, who died in 2011.
Guare and Sons Funeral Home of Montpelier is handling the arrangements. The family will hold a private graveside ceremony to celebrate Barbara's life at a future date. Memorial contributions may be made to the Central Vermont Humane Society, PO Box 687, Montpelier VT 05601.
William David Moody
....show , 30, died Sunday, August 30, 2015 in Cabot, Arkansas. He was a beloved husband, son, brother, and friend.
He was preceded in death by his grandfather Dwight Moody and grandmother Ramona Brown. He is survived by his wife Sarah, mother Janice Brown and her partner Barry Rufenacht, father David Moody, brother Shawn Moody and wife Jasna, sister Jasmin Moody, grandfather Bill Brown, and grandmother Bev Moody and many Aunts, Uncles and cousins.
The funeral will be at 9:00 a.m. Monday, September 14, 2015, at Vermont Veterans Memorial Cemetery, 487 Furnace Road, Randolph Center, Vermont 05061. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to The Wounded Worrier Project in Bills name.
Montpelier, VT - Casey Morgan Eurich
....show , devoted mother and wife, avid skier, and cherished friend passed away peacefully in her home, surrounded by
loved ones, June 23rd 2015. Born in Saranac Lake, NY on June 9th 1963, Casey was the daughter of Forrest "Dew Drop" and Sheila Morgan. She married the love of her life, Gordie Eurich, on June 5th 1993.
Casey and her husband were the proud co-owners of Slope Style Ski and Bike in Montpelier, Vermont. Remembered for her quick wit, skills in the kitchen, athleticism, and incredible strength, Casey took extreme pride and pleasure in her daughter Ellen Eurich. She was a fighter
with an incredible joy for life that made her an inspiration to all whose lives she touched. In addition to her parents, Casey was predeceased by brothers Jimmy and Kevin Morgan. Surviving loved ones include husband Gordie Eurich, daughter Ellen, loving mother and father in law Jo-Ann and Gordie Euirch Sr, brothers: John, Terry, Sean, Bryan, and Dermott Morgan,
sisters: Kelly Morgan Duprey, Colleen Morgan Fossi, Bridget Morgan Curlin and best friends Curt and Jennifer Reynolds. Casey’s spirit, vitality and zest for life live on in daughter Ellen as well as nieces
and nephews: Evan and Garrett Demers, Jordan Leigh Winfield, Jamie Duprey Rohe, Katie O’Reilly Morgan, Sheila Fossi, Forrest, Kevin, Jimmy, Haleigh and DJ Morgan Funeral service and reception celebrating her life will be held at 11:00 on Monday June 29th 2015 at St Augustine Church, Montpelier Vt.
Memorial donations may be sent to the American Cancer Society or Melanoma Research Foundation or St Augustine Church Amen to a wonderful life and peaceful home going. "The light shines in the darkness and the darkness has not overcome it." John 1:5
Brent Morse
....show , age 62 years, raised in Calais, VT, residing in Barre, VT died Sunday afternoon February 8, 2015. He was born January 21, 1953 in Montpelier, VT the son of Stanley Morse and was predeceased by his mother Janice Morse of Calais, VT. He leaves two daughters, Angela Morse of Plattsburg, NY and Erica Morse of Milton, VT, his brother Darryl Morse of Calais, VT and nephew John "Jack" Morse of Wellesley, MA.
He worked for the last several years with Reinhart Foods in Essex, VT. A friend of many with a quick wit and humor he is especially remembered for his athletic prowess. Ambidextrous he was equally adept with both hands in baseball, football, basketball and later softball.
He attended Montpelier, H.S. for three years and graduated his senior year at U-32. In addition to H.S he played legion baseball for Barre, VT. His lasting legacy will be that of an outstanding athlete.
George Davis Morse
....show , 87, died in his sleep at his home with his family on July 24, 2015. Born in that same house in Calais, Vermont on November 20, 1927, he attended all eight grades at Maple Corner School. He left Montpelier High School to major in poultry management at the Vermont School of Agriculture ("Aggie School", now Vermont Technical College) in 1945 and graduated in 1946. He returned to graduate from Montpelier High School in 1947.
For 40 years, George worked at National Life Insurance Company (1948-1988), first as a mail clerk, then as a computer punch card operator and finally as a computer operator. He was a proud member of the National Life Quarter Century Club. George was a member of the Vermont Army National Guard from 1950 to 1953 attaining the rank of Sergeant First Class as an Infantry Communications Supervisor in Germany. He was honorably discharged from the Vermont Army National Guard Reserve in 1955 and was a member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW).
While working at National Life, he met the love of his life, Marjorie Durkee. Both fondly remembered their first date in 1955, going to view the newly arrived 1956 Chevrolet cars. After a small family wedding on July 8, 1956, in South Royalton, Vermont they resided at his family home in Calais for the remainder of their lives.
A 4-H member, George kept various farm animals through out his life. He took care of his own chickens from an early age, worked on a poultry farm in Pennsylvania, kept up to 1000 chickens at his farm and sold eggs around the community. George was a member of the Adamant Methodist Church. Vice President of the Old West Church Association, Aldrich Memorial Association (Robinson Sawmill in Kent Corner) as well as the Calais Historical Society, he also participated in the East Montpelier, Middlesex and Worcester Historical Societies and the Maple Corner and Worcester Granges. He was a Town of Calais Trustee of Public Funds, Cemetery Commissioner, and a Justice of the Peace. The Men of Maple Corner 2003 calendar featured George as Mr. March.
A proud member of the 251 Club, George had visited all of Vermont's towns with his wife and daughter, Laura. George and Marjorie traveled in the U.S., Mexico and Europe. Taking yearly trips in retirement, they ultimately visitied every state in the continental U.S in their Volkswagen camper. He enjoyed traveling to Baja and Copper Canyon in Mexico and soaking in the hot springs in Big Bend, Texas. He was also a member of the Montpelier and Twinfield Senior Centers, especially enjoying the Montpelier Senior Swim program. A regular attendee at Worcester Meals, he enthusiastically read books from their Kellogg-Hubbard Library outreach program.
George will be remembered for his incredible memory of people and places and their relationships. Asked about almost any local resident, he could not only tell you where someone currently lives, but the farm they grew up on, other places they had lived, who their parents were and the farms the parents had grown up on, and many details about their relatives and neighbors.
George is predeceased by his parents Ira A. Morse and Eva May Davis and by his beloved wife of 58 years, Majorie Durkee Morse. Survivors include a brother, Wayne and his wife, Elizabeth Morse of Calais, two sisters, Ella and her husband Everett Maynard of Moretown and Harriet Gallagher of Calais, daughters Laura Morse of East Montpelier and Cynthia Gardner-Morse and her husband, Mack Gardner-Morse, of Calais, his cherished grandchildren Ira George Gardner-Morse of South Burlington, Eliza Rose Gardner-Morse of Benson and Calais, and John Isaac Gardner-Morse of South Burlington, and numerous other family members.
The family would like to thank the many care providers/drivers, Central Vermont Home Health and Hospice workers, and community members who provided loving care to keep George and his wife, Marge, active and comfortable in their home over the past years. Adamant Methodist Church members faithfully provided friendship and rides to Sunday services. We appreciated the volunteer efforts of Ray and Sue Toolan of Wayward Wheels for providing essential home medical equipment.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Kellogg-Hubbard Library (135 Main Street, Montpelier, VT 05602), Worcester Community Kitchen and Food Shelf (739 Collar Hill Road, Worcester, VT 05682) or Central Vermont Home Health and Hospice (600 Granger Road, Barre, VT 05641). A memorial service will be held in George Morse's honor at the Old West Church in Calais at 2:00 PM on Sunday, August 2, 2015.
Just 23 days after coming into the world, Jaxson Tyler Noury
....show passed away peacefully in his parents’ arms at Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center in Lebanon, NH. During that brief time, he touched many lives and was loved by all who met him.
Born ten weeks earlier than expected and weighing only 2 lbs, 12 oz, Jaxson was still able to grip his father’s finger and respond to his mother’s touch during his brief stay on earth. He was immediately placed in the NICU for monitoring due to his many medical conditions and remained there under close observation until his untimely death.
Jaxson joins his maternal grandfather, Richard Stewart; paternal grandparents Anthony Noury and Pauline (Beede) Noury in heaven. He is survived by his mother and father, Joseph and Kimberly Noury; his maternal grandmother Cindy Stewart; and many aunts, uncles, nieces and nephews.
A funeral service will be held at Guare & Sons Funeral Home for family and friends on Friday, February 20th, 2015 at 11am. Reception will follow at the VFW Post 792 on Pioneer Street in Montpelier. Jaxson will be interred in the spring at the Berlin Corner Cemetery. Flowers and condolences may be sent to Guare & Sons Funeral Home, 30 School Street, Montpelier, VT 05602. Donations can be made in Jaxson’s memory to the NICU at the Children’s Hospital at Dartmouth.
The family would also like to acknowledge and thank the Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center NICU staff for their tireless efforts and dedication to Jaxson during his brief time on earth.
Montpelier, VT/ Somersworth, NH - Lee Patrick O’Neill
....show passed away October 5 after a long and valiant battle with cancer. He was born September 10, 1955, in Spokane Washington to Elizabeth Hill O'Neill and LeGrand Cannon Cramer. He changed his name to honor his stepfather, William O'Neill of Bristol, Vermont.
Lee attended school in Bristol, Vermont. He leaves behind his wife of almost 40 years, Susan, Somersworth, NH; four children Kimberly O’Neill, Bolton, Vermont; Benjamin O’Neill, East Hardwick, Vermont; David O’Neill, Montpelier, Vermont; and Caitlin Capiglioni from Olympia, Washington.
Lee also leaves two sisters, Wendy and Ellen; a sister-in law, Donna, all of Dover, NH; a brother Keith and his family in Ohio; a cousin, Yolanda Hill in St. Albans, Vermont; and many nieces and nephews.
Lee worked for many years as a houseparent at Taylor House in Montpelier; as a living skills instructor and houseparent in Montpelier and Waterbury Vermont. He also worked in the deli at the Grand Union and many years at Brooks Pharmacy, both in Montpelier, followed by several years at Rite Aid in Barre, Vermont.
He was kind and compassionate to everyone he came into contact with, and shared his wonderful heart with all of us. A memorial reception will be held 11:00 am on Friday, October, 9th at the Guare & Sons Funeral Home. A committal service will follow at the Green Mount Cemetery.
Contributions may be made to Lee’s Memorial Fund, c/o Benjamin O’Neill, 268 Hardwick Street, East Hardwick, VT 05836.
Jan H. Perry
....show , age 55, died at her home in Montpelier, Vermont on Monday, January 5, 2015. Born on May 8, 1959, in Cleveland Heights, Ohio, she lived in Wellesley, Massachusetts, Amherst, New Hampshire, and the Pacific Northwest before settling in Montpelier.
Jan attended Proctor Academy in Andover, NH, and Evergreen State College in Olympia, Washington. She fell in love with the Northwest and resided there for several years following college graduation. Jan was an avid outdoorswoman and especially enjoyed hiking, canoeing and skiing. She was a lifelong advocate of environmental conservation efforts.
She is survived by her father, Mervyn F. Perry of Falmouth, MA, sisters Cynthia Perry of Rumney, NH and Susan Diette of Woodbridge, Connecticut, three nephews and a niece. She was predeceased by her mother, Marian S. Ashworth of Hebron, NH, and brother, Richard C. Perry of Brockton, MA.
A private family service will be held at a later date.
N. Hero, VT - Lawrence W. Pratt
....show , 83, of N. Hero and formerly of Montpelier died on Tuesday, April 7, 2015 at the University of Vermont Medical Center surrounded by his family.
He was born on July 14, 1931 in Montpelier, the son of Wayne S. and Freda (Silloway) Pratt. He graduated from Montpelier High School in 1950 and received an associate degree from Montpelier Seminary School before enlisting into the United States Army. On September 7, 1953, he married his childhood sweetheart, Jeanine Canales at St. Augustine’s Catholic Church. During the Korean War, he served his country in Germany before being honorably discharged. He continued his service as a member of the Vermont National Guard until the 1960's.
After his service in the army, he attended Norwich University and graduated as a member of the Magnificent Class of 1959, receiving his bachelor’s degree in civil engineering. He spent his career working for the Federal Highway Administration and participated in the construction of Interstate 89. From 1983 until his retirement in 1987, he and Jeanine expanded their horizons, moving to Kuwait where Larry was an adviser to the Kuwait government on their road building projects.
The Pratt's returned to Vermont, living on their sailboat while building a home in N. Hero, VT. Larry worked for 10 yrs. for the Lake Champlain Transportation Co. He was a member of the N. Hero volunteer Fire Department and Past President and founding member of the Pelots Bay Restoration Association. He maintained a varied interest in airplanes, obtaining his solo soaring license, building model planes and flying remote control planes. He had a variety of sailboats over the years and taught his children and grandchildren how to sail. He played the trumpet in the Milton Town Band and with the Inseldudlers, a local German Band.
Survivors include his wife, Jeanine Pratt of N. Hero, daughter, Jody Barna and her husband Ed of Randolph; sons, Dean Pratt and his wife Patsy of Los Angeles, CA, Jeff Pratt and his wife Jennifer of Durango, CO, Tim Pratt and his companion Angela Ribolini of Berlin, Eric Pratt of Baltimore, MD, and Carl Pratt and his wife Sue of Pittsfield, MA; 9 grandchildren and 1 great grandchildren; sister Constance Doucette and her husband Roland of Baltimore, VT; and brother, Rodrick Pratt and his wife Ralpha of Barre, VT
Calling hours will be held from 6-8:00 pm on Wednesday, April 15, 2015 at the Guare & Sons Funeral Home. A Funeral Mass will be held 11:00 am on Thursday, April 16, 2015 at St. Augustine’s Church.
Memorial contributions may be made to the N. Hero/Grand Isle Rescue, PO Box 79, Grand Isle VT 05458; North Hero Volunteer Fire Department, P.O. Box 132, North Hero, VT 05474, or the Pelots Bay Restoration Association, c/o Rich Winter, 1164 Savage Point Rd, N.Hero, VT 05474.
Barre Town, VT - Ralpha Pratt
....show , 76, of Granview Drive died unexpectedly while vacationing on the south coast of Maine. She was born on November 17, 1938, in St. Albans, VT, the daughter of Ralph and Wanieta (Bruley) Newcity. She attended BFA of St. Albans and later Montpelier High School where she graduated in the class of 1958.
On July 8, 1961, she married Roderick Pratt at St. Augustine’s Church. She worked primarily as a home maker while raising her family. Earlier in her life, she worked for the former Endicott Johnson shoe store in Montpelier, as well as National Life, Union Mutual and Price Chopper.
She was a Girl Scout Leader at the Unitarian Church in Montpelier between 1967 and 1972. She was also a Girl Scout Leader in Barre Town in the mid 1970's. She has recently been involved with the the quilting club at the Bethany United Church. She enjoyed, camping, reading, knitting, and sewing quilts.
Survivors include her husband, Roderick; son, Russell Pratt and his wife Nataliya of Boise, ID; daughter, PenniAnn Stearns and her husband Robert of Marshfield, VT; brothers, Robert Newcity and his wife, Sandy of Berlin and Randall Newcity of Burlington, VT; Grandchildren Sophia Pratt, Maxim Pratt, Randall Stearns, and Ryan Stearns.
She was predeceased by her nephew, Corey Newcity. Calling hours will be held from 6-8:00 pm on Sunday, June 21, 2015 at the Guare & Sons Funeral Home. A Funeral Mass will held 11:00 am on Monday at St. Augustine Catholic Church. There will be a gathering at the Montpelier American Legion Hall immediately following the funeral mass. Committal prayers will be held 9:00 am on Wednesday, June 24th at the Vermont Veterans Memorial Cemetery.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Vermont Heart Association, 312 Hurricane Lane, Williston, VT 05495.
Eva A. Prescott
....show , 91, of Hardwick passed away, Friday, June 12, 2015 at the Pines Nursing Home. She was born on May 10, 1924 in Arlington, VT. On September 14, 1940, she married Harold W. Prescott in Washington, VT. She loved baking and cooking. Pies were her specialty.
Survivors include her daughter, Susan Barclay and her husband, Steven of Hardwick; son, Wayne and his wife Gail of Woodbury; sisters, Shirley Cady of Hardwick, Charlotte Gates of Tennessee; grandchildren, Kevin, Karen, Sally, and Harold; great grandchildren; Melissa, Brittney, Kary, Kolin, Emily, Anna, Tim, Bobbie Jo, Linana, Zach, Ted; and her extended family and friend, Emily McLean.
She was predeceased by her husband, Harold; two sons, Chester and Theron; and a grandson. There will be no calling hours. A graveside service will be held 1:00pm on Saturday, June 20, 2015 at the Fairview Cemetery in Hardwick, VT.
Montpelier, VT - Bradley H. Raymond
....show , 69, of Bailey Ave, died unexpectedly on Friday, April 24, 2015 at his home. He was born in Montpelier, VT on May 29, 1945, the son of George Lewis and Norma (Harvey) Raymond. He graduated from Montpelier High School in 1962. While there he played on the varsity baseball and basketball teams. He later attended the University of Vermont.
During his time at UVM, Bradley was offered a job as a bar and restaurant manager. After accepting the position, he realized this is something that he excelled in. He went on to own and operate several restaurant establishments in the Burlington area. Bradley had a love for horses and was known as a very charitable individual, often making monetary donations to many organizations.
Survivors include his son, Todd Raymond of East Montpelier; his mother, Norma Raymond of East Montpelier; brother Gregory Raymond and wife Jean Robertson Raymond of Pennsylvania; grandchildren; Brittney, Mallory, Lydia, and Ashton Raymond and several nieces and nephews.
There will be no calling hours. A memorial service will be held later this summer. Interment will be at Elmwood Cemetery at the convenience of the family. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Central Vermont Humane Society of East Montpelier.
East Montpelier, VT - Paul T. Redmond
....show , 71, passed away on April 28th, 2015 at Dartmouth Hitchcock hospital. He was a graduate of St. Michael's high school, the University of Ottawa, and Trinity college. He taught for a year at Vergennes high school and then was a social worker at the former Weeks school. In 1972, he returned to Montpelier to work with his brother in the family business, Paul's Home Bake Shop, until 1987. At that point, he pursued a career as a CPA, retiring in 2014.
He leaves behind his wife, the former Mary Campbell, and two children, Justin and his wife Shauna and their son Blakely; and his daughter Erin and her partner Johnathan Stump; a sister, Kathleen Germana of Waterbury ctr.; and brother Edward of Scottsdale, AZ. He also leaves several nieces and nephews whom he treated like his own children.
He was predeceased by his sister Mary and brothers James and Michael, and his parents, Paul and Catherine Redmond. He always put his family first and was a man of integrity and selflessness. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him.
Visiting hours will be at Guare and Sons/Barber & Lanier Funeral Home from 7-9 pm on Saturday, May 2nd. The committal will be at Doty cemetery, Center Road, East Montpelier on Sunday at 10 am.
In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the Paul T. Redmond memorial scholarship fund in the care of the Montpelier public school system.
Evan Paul Reinhardt
....show , age 24, of New Haven, CT formerly of New Canaan, CT died suddenly on July 15, 2015 in New Haven, CT. Evan was born in Stamford, CT on May 8, 1991, the oldest son of Paul and Marjorie Percy Reinhardt. He was preceded in death by his maternal grandfather Col. Bernard D. Percy and paternal grandmother Charlotte O. Reinhardt.
He lived in New Canaan, CT for most of his short life, attending East Elementary School and Saxe Middle School. After two years at Canterbury School in New Milford, CT, Evan graduated from New Canaan High School in 2009. Evan continued his studies for two years at Miami University of Ohio. He qualified for Dean's List his freshman year, and joined Delta Upsilon fraternity his sophomore year. Evan resided in Williston, VT and most recently in New Haven, CT.
He is survived by his parents, Paul C. and Marjorie P. Reinhardt of New Canaan, his sister Andrea M. Reinhardt of Stamford, his brothers Karl B. and Peter J. of New Canaan. Evan was well-read, witty, and a great communicator. He was an incredible listener, who showed great empathy for others’ feelings. Evan was athletic, and while growing up played football, hockey and lacrosse in New Canaan.
Over the last year, Evan was working hard on his recovery following his graduation from the Turning Point program in New Haven and continued to work there as a cook. Recently, his parents, brothers and sister had enjoyed a memorable vacation in Europe that was a strong renewal of family bonds.
Evan will be greatly missed by everyone who knew him. He will be remembered as the one who made his family and friends laugh. Evan was the guy in charge of all things funny. He was a warm-hearted young man that anyone would be proud to call son, grandson, brother, nephew or friend.
A Funeral Mass of Christian Burial was held on Wednesday July, 22, 2015 at 10:30 AM at St. Thomas More Church , 375 Middlesex Rd., Darien, CT. The Interment was held in the family plot at Doty Cemetery, East Montpelier, Vermont.
The family received friends on Tuesday July 21, 2015 from 4 to 8 PM at the Hoyt Funeral Home, 199 Main Street, New Canaan. The interment will take place on Saturday, July 25 at 1:30PM at the Doty Cemetery, East Montpelier, CT.
Contributions may be made in Evan’s memory to Shatterproof or Project Independence of Barre, VT
Marilyn Robinson
....show , 85, of formerly of Route 2 in Berlin and most recently of Rowan Court Nursing Home, died on Sunday, May 10, 2015.
She was born on September 14, 1929 in Montpelier, VT, the daughter of William Thomas and Eunice (Hood) Robinson. She attended the Morse School House in East Montpelier and later graduated from Montpelier High School in 1947. She then attended the University of Vermont before enlisting into the United State Air Force in 1949. She served her military career as a Climatologist for 26 years before retiring as a Senior Master Sergeant on March 31, 1976. While serving she was awarded two Air Force Commendation Medals and the Bronze Star for Vietnam Service award.
She was an active bowler and served as secretary for the Vermont State Bowlers Association Survivor include her nephew; David H. Nelson and his companion Darlene Holms of Berlin; cousins, Roberts Sauter of Schenectady, NY and Reginald Robinson of Hinesburg, VT; sister, Grace Messier of Barre; niece Irene Lantagne of Barre; and Aunt, Irene Lindsey of Stannard, VT.
A graveside service and Military honors will be 2:30 pm on Thursday, May 28 at Robinson Cemetery in Calais, VT.
Robert "Rob," "Bob" Lester Rowe
....show , 82, passed away on Wednesday, January 28, 2015 at the Central Vermont Medical Center. He was born November 28, 1932 in Barre, VT, the son of Alfred and Isabel (Blakebrough) Rowe. The family moved to Chelsea, VT in 1936 to begin farming. Bob attended school in Chelsea, graduating in 1950 from Chelsea High School. He then attended Johnson State College studying to become a teacher. Following his graduation from Johnson in 1954 he helped build what is now the elementary school in Tunbridge, VT. In January 1955, he enlisted in the U.S. Army and served on active duty for 2 years at Loring Air Base, ME as a supply sergeant.
While at Johnson State College, he met Joyce Palmer, who was the love of his life and they married on February 19, 1956. They were looking forward to celebrating their 59th wedding anniversary this year.
He began his teaching career in Gilman, VT, then taught in Waterbury, and at Main Street School in Montpelier. He and Joyce became owners of the Meadow Mart in 1976. In 1990 they sold the store and Bob continued "Keeping the Books!" for the new owner.
Bob had many interests. He enjoyed the family camp in Waitsfield especially the deer hunting season and the 4th of July celebrations. He enjoyed weekly golf outings and entertaining friends, neighbors, and relatives at holiday gatherings. Bob loved doing genealogy work, continuing the research begun by his father. He and Joyce completed several family genealogies (Rowe, Blakebrough, Palmer, and Hallock). Another enjoyment was restoring antique cars and tractors. The last car he restored was a 1929 Ford Murray sedan which was just like the car he had while at Johnson State College. He and Joyce spent summers camping in State parks as well as in Prince Edward Island and Nova Scotia. Bob was a member of the Montpelier Elks, Marc Club, VAE and the American Legion.
Bob will be remembered for his integrity, humor, exuberance and his ability to fix anything. He was especially proud to be a Vermonter. Bob is survived by his wife Joyce Palmer Rowe of Montpelier; son, Steve Rowe and his wife JoAnn of South Burlington; daughter, Debra and husband Jim Reardon of Essex Junction; daughter, Karen and husband, Major General John Broadmeadow stationed in Albany GA; sisters, Margery Morrill, Marlene Adams, Martha Lamonda; brother-in-law, Brad Senter; and sister-in-law, Peg Rowe. He is also survived by seven grandchildren; Kristy Goodwin; Michael, Jennifer and Stephanie Reardon; Katherine Rowe; Megan Moriarty; and Benjamin Broadmeadow; and three great-grandchildren, Derek and Lindsey Holbrook, and Kylie Goodwin.
Bob was predeceased by his parents; son, Peter Scott Rowe; brother, Stuart Rowe; sister, Marilyn Senter; and grandchildren Jonathan and Sara Broadmeadow. Visiting hours will be on Sunday, February 1, 2015 from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. at Guare & Sons/Barber & Lanier Home, 30 School Street, Montpelier, VT. A funeral service will be held 11:00 a.m.., Monday, February 2, 2015 also at the Guare & Sons/Barber & Lanier Funeral Home.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Central Vermont Home Health & Hospice, 600 Granger Road, Berlin, VT 05641 or to the American Cancer Society, New England Division, 55 Day Lane, Williston, VT 05495.
William A. Saffiotti "Bill"
....show 49, of Barre Town, VT originally from West Haven, CT sadly passed away February 13th at CVMC in Berlin VT.
Bill was an intelligent, talented, passionate and funny man who touched many lives in both VT and CT in his short time with us. His hobbies included singing, gaming, fishing, spending time with his little cousins Angelina, Abrianna and Hunter. He also loved to play guitar and other instruments. He enjoyed a good debate with any willing party and was a very good cook. Bill is the son of the late William A. Saffiotti Sr and is survived by his mother Lenore Bodle, a brother Mike Saffiotti both of CT and a sister Gina Quoka of FL also 4 nieces and 2 nephews.
Always on our minds, Forever in our hearts! Services for family and friends will be held at Guare and Sons Funeral Home, 30 School Street, Montpelier VT on Saturday, February 21st from 3-5 pm. Following his service there will be a gathering to celebrate Bill's life at The Vermont Army National Guard Armory, 363 Fisher Rd, Berlin VT.
Northfield, VT - William Bernard Schick
....show , age 64 years, a resident of this area for over 35 years, died Saturday evening January 24th, 2015, after several days in a coma. He was surrounded by family during his peaceful passing.
Raised in New York City, Bill was the son of the late George and Lora Schick. He married Deborah Ann Powers in 1972, and raised two sons that were a great pride to him. He served as Exalted Ruler for the Montpelier Lodge of Elks #924, and was a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. For nearly 30 years, Bill faithfully worked as a rehabilitation consultant helping injured people get back to work.
Bill will be especially remembered for his wit and always had a kind word or bit of humor to bring a smile. He had a passion for music and singing, and played guitar and keyboard in many bands throughout the years. Grandpa Schick loved sharing photos of his grandchildren and watching them grow and play.
Bill leaves his son, Bill Schick and his wife Christine Schick of Merrimack, New Hampshire; his son Jon Schick and his wife Jaime Schick of Malden, Massachusetts; three grandchildren, Liam, Gavin and Elora Schick; ex-wife Deborah Schick of Brattleboro, VT as well as several brother and sister in-laws.
Friends and family are invited to the funeral service on Saturday, January 31st, 2015, at 2:00 p.m. at The Guare & Sons/ Barber & Lanier Funeral Home, 30 School Street, Montpelier. Calling hours will precede the service from noon until 2:00.
Kevin James Senter
....show died on February 6, 2015 in Durango, Colorado, when he lost his battle with pancreatic cancer. Kevin was born in 1956 in Montpelier, VT to Darold and Agnes Senter, both deceased. He is survived by his three siblings; Bradley Senter of Montpelier, VT; Barbara Senter Huang of Whitmore Lake, MI; and Terry Senter of Barre, VT. He is also survived by two nieces and three nephews.
Kevin graduated from Montpelier High School and Gram College in Boston. Kevin loved the outdoors, music, attending concerts and talking with people. K-Man, as he was known to many, was a kind soul who was well liked by all who met him.
Throughout his life, he found ways to pursue his passions including working for many years as a chef. He also worked for Purgatory Ski Area in Colorado and for La Plata County Fair Grounds in Durango. He was employed at Fort Lewis College in Durango at the time of his passing.
Arrangements are in the charge of Hood Mortuary of Durango. There will be a committal in Vermont to be arranged by the family in the spring of 2015.
Montpelier, VT - Virginia "Ginny" Ann Shannon
....show , 80, of Forest Drive died on Friday, October 9, 2015 at her home. She was born in White Plains, NY on May 8, 1935, the daughter of Russell and Gladys (O’Connor) Moss. She attended St. Josephine’s Grade School in Oradell, NJ and later graduated from St. Cecelia’s High School in 1952. She later attended Georgetown University.
On January 21, 1955, she married William Shannon at St. Ann’s Catholic Church in Ossining, NY. After moving to Vermont in 1968, Ginny began working as a patient registration clerk at the Heaton Hospital and later Central Vermont Hospital. She retired in 2005 after 30 years of service. She was also the co-owner of "Our Place" in East Barre from 1982 until 1987.
She was a member of St. Augustine’s Catholic Church and the St. Vincent’s de Paul Society. She was also a volunteer at the Woodridge Nursing Home. Survivors include her husband, William Shannon of Montpelier; daughters, Laureen Shannon of Calais, Therese Sanchez of Madera, CA, Michelle Lavallee of Barre Town; sons, Kevin Shannon of Barre City, Martin Shannon of Williamstown, VT, Russell Shannon of Berlin, Terence Shannon of Montpelier; grandchildren, Mark Shannon, Paul Shannon, Andrew Shannon, Joseph Carriveau, Paul Lavallee, Matthew Lavallee, Lacey Lavallee, Olivia Sanchez, and Noah Sanchez; sister, Pamela Turner of Montpelier.
She was predeceased by one son, William Shannon, Jr. There will be no calling hours. A funeral mass will be held 11:00 am on Thursday, October 15, 2015 at St. Augustine’s Church. Committal prayers will be offered immediately following at the Waterbury Center Cemetery.
Memorial contributions may be made to the St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital.
Marilyn M. "Lynn" Shaw
....show , 74, of Summer Street, Barre died unexpectedly Saturday, June 20, 2015 at Central Vermont Hospital. Lynn was born on November 11, 1940 in Hardwick, VT the daughter of Gordon and Eunice (Fletcher) Currier. She attended schools in Marshfield VT. Lynn was married to James Shaw in 1967 in Montpelier VT. Survivors include two daughters, Diana M. Chadwick of Brandford CT; Terri L. Shaw of East Calais two sons, Robert A. Gosselin of East Calais, VT and Raymond R. Gosselin of Orlando, Florida; 9 grandchildren; and Robert Boutin, Companion of 3 years.
She is also survived by her siblings, Gordon P. "Joe" Currier of Marshfield, Ginny Donaldson of Davenport, Florida; Helen Wilder of Montpelier, VT; and Cindy Reed of East Montpelier, VT.
She was predeceased by her parents and her husband, James on June 14, 2004. Lynn was a member of the American Legion Post # 3 Auxiliary and VFW # 792 Auxiliary. Calling hours will be held on June 24, 2015 from 5-8pm at Macedonia Baptist Church, Route 2, Plainfield, VT. A Memorial service will be held on Thursday at 11:00 am at Macedonia Baptist Church.
Memorial contribution may be made to Diana M. Chadwick of 4 Lamphere St Brandford CT 06405
Alice R. Sicely
....show , 90, of Calais Road, Worcester, VT died July 28, 2015 at her home. She was born in Elmore, VT on April 26, 1925 the daughter of Sevare and Anna(Gates)Barcomb. Alice attended schools in Hardwick, North Calais and Mackville area.
Alice was married to Frank "Doc" Sicely on August 19, 1942 in Hartford, CT. They had celebrated their 70th wedding anniversary and Doc passed on September 25, 2012. She enjoyed refinishing furniture, making wreaths at Christmas time, reading, and visiting with friends and family. Alice is survived by three daughters, Barbara LaPointe and her partner, Lou Dornbierer of Hardwick; Susan Pellegrino and her husband, Terrance of Castleton,VT; and Melanie Webster and her husband, Michael of Worcester, VT; two grandchildren, Nicolas LaPointe and his wife, Jennifer of Hampton, NH; Caleb Webster of Worcester; and step-grandchildren, Jessey Webster of Morrisville, Abby Shilman and Aiden Shilman of Hampton, NH; great grandchildren, Jacob Nicolas LaPointe and Alice Mae LaPointe of Hampton, NH; and many nieces and nephews.
Alice was predeceased by her siblings, Fred Barcomb, Roy Barcomb, Carl Barcomb, and Arelia Breed. At Alice’s instructions there will be no calling hours or service. Burial will be with her husband at Fairview Cemetery, Hardwick, VT.
A reception in her memory will be held at Barbara and Lou’s house in Hardwick Thursday at 2 PM.
Worcester, VT - Kevin R. Sicely
....show , 43, of Minister Brook Road died unexpectedly on Monday, November 9, 2015 at the Central Vermont Medical Center.
He was born in Berlin, VT on June 8, 1972, the son of Danny and Elaine (Gordon) Sicely. He graduated from Twinfield High School in the Class of 1990. Kevin was a longtime employee of Cabot Creamery. On December 31, 2000, he married Michelle Bador in Worcester, VT. Kevin was an outdoorsman and enjoyed hunting, snowmobiling, four wheeling. He also cherished traveling to Maine with his family. Kevin loved to cook and he especially enjoyed Barbequing.
Survivors include his wife, Michelle Sicely of Worcester, VT; daughters, Kendra and Miranda Bador both of Worcester; grandchildren, Alexis Bador, Landon Garneau, and Rylann Perkins, all of Worcester; his mother, Elaine Sicely of Marshfield; Step father Jerry Russell of Marshfield; and brother, Scott Sicely of Northfield, VT.
A celebration of life and pot luck reception will be held at 3:00 pm on Saturday, November 21, 2015 at the Worcester Town Hall. Memorial contributions may be made to the Central Vermont Humane Society, P.O. Box 687, Montpelier, VT 05601.
BARRE - Sandra Jean Smith
....show , 69, of Barre Vermont died unexpectedly, Tuesday July 28, 2015 at her home.
Born on July 26, 1946, in Montpelier, she was the daughter of Albert D. Smith and Marion Roya Smith. She graduated from Spaulding High School in 1964.
In May of 1963 Sandra married Joey Laquerre in Brownsville Vermont. Following their marriage, they made their home on Ayer Street in Barre. In 1970 they established their home in East Montpelier and raised their four energetic boys. Years later she married Arthur Wayne "Smitty" Smith formerly of Waterbury. Shortly after their marriage they settled for the next 18 years in St. James City, Florida.
Sandra and Wayne enjoyed their days boating on the inner coastal waters of South Western Florida with many of their close friends. They were avid motorcyclist and attended many charity events.
In her earlier years, Sandra worked and was co-owner of Race & Custom Sports Center. Sandra was an active member of the Sno-Bees Club and was crowned Sno-Bee Queen in 1971. While in Florida, Sandra was employed at a hardware bait shop store in St. James City and afterwards was the service manager for St. James City Auto. Sandra also worked as a bartender at the Ragged Ass Saloon and was voted customers best bartender of Pine Island in 2008.
She was preceded by her brother Edward Smith, her uncle Carlton Smith and parents Marion and Albert Smith, son Joey Laquerre Jr., husband Arthur Wayne Smith and grandson Joey M. Laquerre.
Survivors include Jeff Laquerre his son Jarrett; Jay Laquerre his wife, Danielle, son Ryan, and daughter Abbe; Jamie Laquerre his fiancé, Krissy, daughter, Melinda and son Jesse; granddaughters, Ashley St. John her husband, Eric; Alicia Mastine and her husband, Jesse; sister, Susan Camp and her husband, William.
A celebration of Sandra’s life will held at the Montpelier Elks Club on Friday August 7th from 5:00PM to 8:00PM. Contributions in her memory may be made to ALS Foundation, PO Box 6051, Albert Lea, MN 56007.
Montpelier, VT - Manuela Ruiz Soldado
....show , 86, had a gentle peaceful passing surrounded by members of her family on Friday, August 28, 2015 at CVMC in Berlin.
Born on February 10, 1929 in Moron de la Frontera, Spain, she was the daughter of Andres Ruiz Cruz and Encarnacion Soldado Lopera. She was a little girl when the Spanish Civil War started. Those were horrible years and she and her family suffered many hardships and losses during the war, but those losses did not diminish her gentle loving spirit.
On August 26, 1949, she married Fermin Davila in Cordoba, Spain. In July 1954, she traveled with their 2 children to the United States to join her husband who had found work in Montpelier. The family settled in Montpelier where 4 more children joined the family.
Her children and grandchildren were the joy of her life and she loved them all dearly. Manuela was a home maker her entire life. She honed those home making skills to an art and was a great cook and baker. Her hobbies included embroidery, crotchet, knitting and gardening. She passed those skills and hobbies on to her children who are passing them on to their children.
She is survived by five children: Maria Hedin of Barre; Andy and Kathy Davila of Vero Beach, Florida; Susana and Tom Williams of Berlin; Manuel Davila of Montpelier and Cristina and Randy Chase of South Barre and 10 grandchildren: Laura and Tomas Hedin, Matt and Jason Davila, Paul and Alex Williams, and Emily, Sarah and Kaitlyn Chase. Her surviving family living in Spain includes 3 brothers (Andres, Paco and Raphael) and dozens of nieces, nephews and cousins.
She was predeceased by her infant son, Daniel in 1955 and her husband, Fermin in 2004. There will be no calling hours. Her service will be in the chapel at Guare and Sons Funeral Home at 1 pm on Tuesday, September 1, 2015 with internment to follow the service at the Berlin Corners Cemetery.
Vincent A. Sondej
....show , 60, died unexpectedly in his Montpelier home February 1, 2015 of a heart attack. David Guterson’s Snow Falling on Cedars was open beside him, turned to page 301.
Vince was born in Chicago to Vincent Stanley Sondej and Geraldine (Leggdas) Sondej on July 2, 1954. He had a BA and an MA in English from Northern Illinois University, and a BS in Psychology from Utah State University. In Utah he worked as a writer and editor at Netware Technical Journal and LAN Times. He then went on to work as an engineering documentation manager at Novell. He met his future wife, Helen (Sims) Husher, on an internet list serve for copy editors, and came to Vermont in 1998 to nurture their friendship and to work as a technical writer and editor for IDX, later GE Healthcare. They moved in together in 2001 and married in Montpelier in 2005.
Vince loved playing Irish traditional music on his pennywhistles and hosted weekly music gatherings for many years in his Loomis Street home. He enjoyed taking his 25-foot Rosborough trawler, Clancy’s Jig, out on Lake Champlain, where he poked happily around the inlets and islands of Mallets Bay, Valcour, Essex, and Westport, and sometimes pretended to fish.
Vince loved to read and was in the middle of reorganizing his library at the time of his death. He was also concerned about healthy fisheries and waterways, and he recently began volunteering on water quality monitoring projects along the Winooski River. He was a quiet, focused man, happiest when alone or with a few trusted friends; he was selective but intensely loyal, playful, intimate, and committed to the people who mattered most to him.
He leaves his wife, his mother Geraldine Sondej of Plainfield, Illinois, sister Denise Sondej of Western Springs, Illinois; sister Michaelene and her husband William Murphy of Boynton Beach, Florida; and his sister Nadine Sondej-Robinson her husband Jerry Robinson of Pacific Palisades, California. He also leaves Caroline and Eric Husher of Portsmouth, Rhode Island; Anthony Pickman of Lincoln, Massachusetts; Allan Pickman, Alex Pickman, and Robin Downes of Temple, New Hampshire; Daisy Welch of Big Bend, Texas, Jason and Suzanne Welch of Derry, New Hampshire, and Jessica Welch and James Maguire of Boston. He had many nephews and one niece. His father predeceased him.
Cremation is under the care of Guare and Sons Funeral Home in Montpelier, Vermont. A memorial service will be held at the convenience of friends and family, most likely in the spring.
Memorial gifts may be made to the Non-Game Wildlife Fund, Vermont Fish and Wildlife, 1 National Life Drive, Davis 2, Montpelier, Vermont 05620-3702.
Douglas M. Spaulding
....show , 66 of Lyndonville, VT passed away on January 30, 2015 with his family close by. Born at Montpelier, VT on February 1, 1948 he was the son of Lucille (Colby) Spaulding and the late John Cleveland Spaulding.
He graduated from Montpelier High School in 1966 and, in 1968, after a stint at Lyndon State College, he enlisted into the United States Navy where his first assignment was onboard the USS Luce DLG-7, a Guided Missle Frigate homeported in Mayport, FL. After experiencing many a new, exciting, and timely adventure at numerous ports of call in South America, Africa, Pakistan, India, Ethiopia and other locations throughout the Middle East region the ship was returned to Philadelphia where it was eventually decommisioned. Doug then attended A School at the Naval War College in Newport, RI and upon graduation was assigned to duty with the Fifth Fleet's Commander of Middle East Forces at Manama, on the Island of Bahrain in the Persian Gulf. While serving here he availed himself of every opportunity to accompany the Admiral's Aviation Unit to the cities of Basrah, Iraq; Tehran and Isfahan in Iran; Beirut, Lebanon and other mysterious and oftentimes exotic destinations as deemed necessary by the COMIDEASTFOR. In 1972 after an honorable discharge Doug hobnobbed throughout Europe and Scandanavia making friends and memories that would last his lifetime.
In 1973 he settled in the Burlington, VT area and in October of that year he married his long time crush and confidant, Christine E. Redmond also of Montpelier, VT. Throughout the 70's and into the early 80's Doug was employed with Nate's Mens Clothiers in Burlington and in 1981 he assumed a sales position with Poulos Insurance in Saint Johnsbury, VT and moved with his wife and their young family to Lyndonville, VT.
In 1984 he joined Northern Gas Transport, a relatively new long haul trucking company operating out of Lyndonville, VT and engaged primarily in the bulk transport of Liquified Petroleum Gas throughout New England and the Province of Quebec. Throughout the 1980's and all of the 1990's, as their Transport Manager and, while working jointly with other company personnel, oversaw all facets of the company, which included a flatbed division as well as a branch that specialized in the fabrication of bobtail transports, experience periods of great sales growth.
In 1987 Doug co-founded Private Coach Tours, a charter tour bus company operating custom motor coaches throughout New England, along the Eastern Seaboard and into the Great Lakes vacation and recreational areas. In 1999 after 12 years of solid growth the coach business was sold and in that same year Doug also left Northern Gas Transport to become US Director of Business Development for Sound Footings. LLC, a newly established construction related manufacturing firm based in Williston, VT. So, in 2005, with the Square Foot footing form that they manufacture fast becoming the premier go to concrete form for contractors of all size, when the opportunity came for Doug to get back into the personal and commercial insurance business, this time with Kinney Pike Insurance which would also put him back home and working right out of Saint Johnsbury, he grabbed at the chance.
Looking back over Doug's time on earth one would see a life sprinkled with doing some pretty neat and different things that interested him and, oftentimes his wife, but always his children! Some of those would include the 16 years that he and his wife owned and operated the "Belly Up" food booth which was located in the agricultural area of the Orleans County Fair. Here Doug had the opportunity to meet and befriend some of the Northeast Kingdom's finest farmers and their families. After selling a million hamburgers and hot dogs and an easy 10,000 pounds of french fries with cheese and gravy, they passed the booth on to their children.
Doug was also a certified pyrotechnician and professional fireworks shooter and over the years he took great pleasure in putting on countless firework displays throughout Vermont but especially enjoyed the shows that, with the help of his family and friends, were fired off from their hillside home in Lyndonville for the viewing pleasure and enjoyment of all within miles of the display site. He always said there was a special rush, like no other rush, when a shell came ripping, pounding and screaming out of it's mortar and, better yet, when a hundred would fire all at once.
In 2003, after years of driving past VT road signs that had been riddled, blasted, or otherwise shot thru from all kinds of gunfire, Doug checked another item off his to do list when, after photographing literally hundreds of these plastered signs, he layed the best ones out in a whimsical manner and then had a poster professionally produced and printed. Controversial from the start, it is entitled "Vermont's Northeast Kingdom, A Hunters Paradise," copies of which now adorn many a deer camp and man cave wall all over this country. And while Doug was not a hunter he thoroughly enjoyed catch and release fishing and especially enjoyed a lazy afternoon spent with Chris and Captain Webster drifting slowly over the waters of Moore Dam in search of that trophy bass, which, of course, they caught over and over again.
Then there was the pickled egg business and the Willoughby Lake Crawfish business venture, both of which were very well received by many clubs, restaurants, and gin mills throughout the Northeast Kingdom.
In 2009, after many years of thinking about it, he purchased the "cadillac" of dirty dog hot dog carts, established NEK Sausage & Dogs, and set up weekend shop in West Danville, VT just yards from the shores of Joe's Pond. After a successful and enjoyable first year and, with eyes on his retirement, he had just started his second when, after a period of ignoring some pretty obvious and serious symptoms that something was amiss, Doug had his first bouts with colon and rectal cancer and then in 2011 he was diagnosed with larynx and lung cancers and in 2013 cancer was again diagnosed in his throat area. He battled them all with the excellant surgical skills of Dr. Chris Danielson and Dr. Joseph Paydarfar and repeated rounds of chemotherapy treatment from Dr. Kubica and radiation treatments from Dr. Fariss and the wonderful care of all the staff at Norris Cotton North, and with periods of remission in between which gave him the opportunity to prepare for battle for the new discoveries that would lie ahead, as they surely did.
Doug had a very kind and generous heart and many an earthquake, hurricane, tsunami, or local charity benefited from it. He served as a Director on the Lyndon Area Youth Hockey Association, the Fenton Chester Ice Arena, and the Lyndon Village Improvement Society boards and held prior memberships with the Saint Johnsbury Elks Club and the Lyndonville American Legion and had served on the Prudential Board of the First Conregational Church in Lyndonville.
He took pleasure in a good pick up game of horseshoes and most days was tough to beat. He appreciated a successful round of poker and the occasional junket to Vegas. He also enjoyed digging in the dirt and in his younger years was a pretty good gardner, meticulous in nature with weed free, well defined, perfectly straight and usually quite productive rows of vegetables. Looking back, he probably should have eaten a lot more of what he grew.
He was a lover of all God's creatures, big and small, and believed and taught that all life was sacred and a gift and not something to be taken by anybody. He especially loved his kitten Maggie and expects now to meet up with his big dog Scotch and march on over the hill together barking, in unison, at the moon.
Besides his mother Lucille and his mother-in-law Maria Redmond, both of Montpelier, VT he is survived by his wife, Christine of 41 years , his son John Benjamin, and his wife Sarah and their children, and Doug's much loved grandchildren, Lucille and Reina of Milton, VT; his daughter Stephanie Dwyer and husband Michael and their children and Doug's much loved grandchildren, Cameron and Jillian of Sutton, VT; and sons Samuel of Bolton, VT and Alexander of Lyndonville, VT. Also by his sister Sherry Carver and husband Dennis of East Montpelier, VT and their children Karen, Kathy and Danny; his brother David and wife Leslie of Montpelier, VT and their children Matthew and Bradley; and sister Barbara and her husband Anthony Ellis of Punta Gorda, FL. He also leaves his brother-in-law Mark Redmond and wife Dorothy of Montpelier, VT and their children Mark and David, and a sister-in-law Jennifer Gile and her husband David of Barnet, VT. He also leaves fellow friends and members of the TAI (think about it) Club which was established in the late 1980's as a stock investment club but turned out to be anything but that. Those old friends and bookends include Diane and the late Scott Mackay, David and Patty Webster, Dave Pingree, Bruce Hill and Chrissie Cano, Danny and Sharon Martin, Stephen and Jan Lea Bertrand and Don and Karen Wells. He was predeceased by his father John, his father-in-law Mickey Redmond, and by his young nephew Brian Redmond.
At Doug's request there will be no calling hours and a gathering of family and friends will be held the Trinity United Methodist Church in Montpelier, VT on Saturday February 7th at 1pm. Arrangements are under the care of Guare and Sons Funeral Home of Montpelier.
Should one desire to give a gift in Doug's memory contributions may be made to either the Lyndon Dog Pound (Scotch's home away from home), P.O. Box 167, Lyndonville, VT 05851, c/o Cindy Cady, or the Kingdom Animal Shelter, P.O. Box 462, Saint Johnsbury, VT 05819.
At Doug's request there will be no calling hours and a gathering of family ands friends will be held at a later date and will be announced in the local newspapers.
Montpelier - Mary Sabina Koch Thomas
....show died Monday, December 7, at her home in Heaton Woods, with her girls at her side. She was born to Cora (Kerschner) and Charles Henry Koch on May 14, 1921 in McKeansburg, PA, the youngest of 12 children, and grew up on the family farm in Pennsylvania Dutch country.
Mary met her future husband, Willard Kellogg Thomas of Middlesex, VT, at a USO dance near her home. They married September 1, 1945 and made their home in Central Vermont where they raised their four daughters.
Mary was an extraordinary homemaker and a natural mother. Her home was always open to friends and family for playing cards and board games. She had a passion for pinochle, which she was able to enjoy throughout her 94 years. She was famous for her full jar of fresh doughnuts, shoo-fly pie and festive meals around the kitchen table. For several years she worked at the snack bar at Norwich University, where was "mother" to all the boys that she did not have of her own.
Mary leaves behind her four daughters and their husbands, Elaine Manghi-Buck and Skip Buck; Kathy and Pat O’Brien; Jane and Steve Carr; and Mary and Chris Stone; nine grandchildren; ten great grandchildren; two great-great grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews. She is predeceased by her 11 sisters and brothers, her husband Willard (1996), her infant daughter Beverly Jean, and her son-in-law Paul Manghi.
The family appreciates her loving community at Heaton Woods, her home for 4½ years. The staff and residents truly became family to Mary and her daughters. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in her memory to the Heaton Woods Activity Fund, 10 Heaton Street, Montpelier, VT 05602.
There will be no calling hours. A funeral service will be held on Saturday, Dec. 12th at 10:00 am at the Guare & Sons Funeral Home, 30 School Street, Montpelier. A committal service will be held in the spring at the Plainmont Cemetery
Montpelier, VT - Robert L. Thomas
....show , 85, formerly of East Montpelier and most recently of Montpelier, Vermont, died on Wednesday, December 9, 2015.
He was born son of George Dolphus Thomas and Pearl Laura (Kellogg) Thomas at Heaton Hospital on July 29, 1930. He graduated from Plainfield High School in 1948 and then attended Springfield College. He married Marilla Lilley on October 28, 1950. She predeceased him on June 15, 1997.
In May of 1951, he enlisted in the United States Army. He served his country during the Korean War until his honorable discharge in 1953. He worked for the State of Vermont until his retirement. Bob loved to golf , cross country ski and fish with friends and family.
He held lifetime memberships with the Montpelier Elks Club and the VFW. He was also a member of the American Legion. Family was most important to Bob and he cherished the time spent with his children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren.
Survivors include his three children; Deborah Jordan and her husband Peter of Maine, Trudy Thomas of Montpelier, and Marty Thomas and his wife Joy of Montpelier; 9 grandchildren and 13 great grandchildren. a sister, Dorothy Perry; a brother, Charles Thomas; and several nieces and nephews.
He was predeceased by siblings Laura Guazzoni , Leona Marsha, Wayne Thomas, and Willard Thomas. Calling hours will be held at the Guare & Sons Funeral Home, at 5:00 PM on Tuesday, December 15 with the memorial service to follow at 6:00 PM. Memorial contributions may be made to Heaton Woods, 10 Heaton Street, Montpelier, VT 05602.
Montpelier - Barbara Thurlow
....show passed away peacefully at Rowan Court in Barre on March 6, 2015 at the age of 91.She was born in Auburn, Maine in 1923, the daughter of Franklin and Marion Prescott. She attended Edward Little High School in Auburn and then went on to Farmington Normal School and the University of Maine in Orono, where she studied to be a teacher. She taught first grade in Rumford and Cape Elizabeth and she loved it. All her life she told stories of the children she had met and taught.
At the University of Maine she met Frederick Thurlow. They married in 1951. They lived in Mapleton, Lubec and Bar Harbor before moving to Bedford, Massachusetts in 1959. Barbara was a librarian in Bedford in the 1970s. She and Fred returned to their beloved Maine in 1978 and settled in Manchester. After Fred’s death in 1986, Barbara moved to Hallowell, Maine. In recent years she has lived in Montpelier and Barre, at Westview Meadows, the Gary Home, as well as Rowan Court. She received excellent care at all three facilities, and made many friends among the devoted and caring staff and other residents that came to know her.
Barbara leaves three children, Ann (David Malahoff) of PEI, Canada; Douglas (Karin) of Madison, Wisconsin and David (Judy) of Montpelier. She also leaves three much beloved grandchildren: Cassady (David Yochoff), Peter, and Tom. She is survived by her adored brother Bill Prescott, many nieces and nephews, and old and dear friends.
Barbara loved playing and listening to music, being outside, birdwatching, and housekeeping. She had a special fondness for the ocean, particularly Popham Beach in Maine. She was always ready to give a helping hand, and was a lover of cats and dogs. She was a proud member of the Unitarian Universalist Community Church in Augusta, where she worked as secretary for several years.
A memorial service will take place at a later date. Please consider donating to an appropriate charity in Barbara’s memory.
Lois M. Toby
....show , 88, died April 16, 2015 at her home. She was born on November 29, 1926 at Heaton Hospital in Montpelier, the daughter of Earl A. and Nettie (Shuttle) Slayton. Lois was brought up on the family farm in East Montpelier. She graduated from the Adamant School, and then from Montpelier High School in 1946. Lois lived most of her life in the Adamant area.
Lois married Elbridge M. Toby in 1947. They had 48 wonderful years together and raised 3 children. Elbridge died in 1995. Lois was manager of the Adamant Coop Store, Treasurer of the Adamant Credit Union and Postmaster at the Adamant Post Office for 20 years. She retired in 1988 to spend more time with her family. She was also active in community affairs and was a local historian.
She enjoyed helping people, traveling and playing cards. Lois also enjoyed her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren and the young people in the village. Lois was predeceased by her parents, husband and three brothers, Wilfred E. Slayton; Maurice H. Slayton and Richard F. Slayton; as well as one sister, Flora C. (Slayton) Chase; grandson, Timothy Smith. She was also predeceased by Wilfred’s wife, Ina; Maurice’s wife, Mildred and Flora’s husband, Preston Chase.
Lois is survived by two sons, Norman E. Toby and his wife, Carolyn; Lester G. Toby and his wife, Patricia; a daughter, Cheryl A. Johnson and her husband, Hugh; 7 grandchildren, Alison Brockway and her husband, Keith; Erin Toby; Corrine Toby; Angela Toby; Ann Hunt; Jennifer Smith; and Stacey Massey and her husband, John; as well as 13 great grandchildren; sister-in-law, Jean Smith; cousins and nieces and nephews.
A Funeral service will be held at 2:00 pm, Tuesday, April 21st at Guare & Sons/Barber & Lanier Funeral Home, 30 School Street, Montpelier. Calling hours will be from 12 Noon until the hour of the funeral at 2:00 pm. A memorial reception will follow the service at the Montpelier Elks Club.
Memorial contributions may be made to Adamant United Methodist Church, c/o James Huckkins-Noss, 678 Fowler Road, Adamant, VT 05640 to be used on the history of the church.
Montpelier, VT - Patricia Jean (Allen) Topping
....show , 87, passed away at Central Vermont Medical Center in Berlin, Vt., on November 27, 2015 with her family by her side.
Pat was born in Troy, N.Y., on March 7, 1928, the only daughter of Elmer and Marion (Schovers) Allen. She attended Catholic Central High School in Troy, graduating with the class of 1946.
She married the late Robert Topping of Amsterdam, N.Y., on April 23, 1949, and the couple settled in Littleton, N.H., where she was a homemaker and substitute teacher in the Littleton school system. After his retirement in 1988, Pat and Bob moved to St. Augustine, Fl., where she volunteered with the Sisters of St. Joseph as a tour guide at the Father O’Reilly House Museum. Pat and Bob shared and enjoyed 61 years of marriage together until his death in 2010. They had one daughter, Kathy Topping Wiese.
Pat remained active in community affairs throughout her life. She was a hospice volunteer while living in St. Augustine. In recent years, she was active at the Montpelier Senior Activity Center in Montpelier, Vt. She had a lifelong love for art, history, and travel. She especially enjoyed drawing, painting, walking, and spending time with family and friends.
She is survived by her daughter, Kathy Topping Wiese, and her husband, Jim Wiese, of East Montpelier, Vt.; two grandchildren, Gail and Robert Wiese; and an aunt, Sister Marcia Allen of Latham, N.Y.
A Memorial Mass will be held 11:00 on Friday, December 18, 2015 at Saint Augustine Church in Montpelier, Vt. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Pat’s memory to the charity of one's choice.
Montpelier - Glenn R. Tosi
....show , 67, of Montpelier, VT died unexpectedly at Dartmouth Hitchcock on April 25, 2015.
Born on December 27, 1947 in Barre, VT, he was the son of Micheline (Masson) Lyons and Elmo Tosi. He attended Montpelier High School and was in the graduating class of 1965. He went on to graduate from UVM in 1971 with a Master’s Degree in Education. He taught French, Spanish and Math at the Montpelier Middle School and Spaulding High School in Barre, VT.
Glenn was most recently employed at The Capital Plaza. He previously worked at the Shedd, Thatcher Brook Inn and Villa Trigara. Glenn will be deeply missed by the many patrons who frequented The Capital Plaza.
He leaves behind his sister, Rosanne M. Gray and partner, John Hulburd of Montpelier; brother, Michael Tosi and wife Lisa of Montpelier; nieces; Jennifer Lashua and husband, Keith Morris of South Barre, VT; Eliza Bertolino and her husband, Rob of Virginia Beach, VA; nephew, Brigham Tosi of Essex, VT. He also leaves behind his great nieces; Aliyah, Sitara, and Isabella and great nephew Tenzen.
He was predeceased by his mother and step-father, Micheline and Bill Lyons. Please join us for a celebration of Glenn’s life at The Capital Plaza on Sunday, May 3, 2015 from 2-4:30 pm.
Memorial contribution in Glenn’s memory may be made to Central Vermont Humane Society, PO Box 687, Montpelier, VT 05601 or to Just Basics, (Montpelier Food Pantry), 137 Main Street, Montpelier, VT 05602.
Yaeko "Jackie" S. Umemura
....show died peacefully Sunday, April 19 in the hospital. Her parents, Yoshihei and Koto Shijo brought her into the world on August 8, the Year Of The Sheep, in Sacramento, CA. She is the last of the Shijos. During her 83 years she was in Heart Mountain, Wyoming Japanese Internment Camp during WW II, graduated from Central High School and the College of St. Catherine in St. Paul, MN, and then pursued an exceptional career as an Occupational Therapist for 40 years, 35 of them in New York City.
In 1977 she met her surviving soulmate, Ray McClure from Vermont, with whom she shared a loving relationship for almost 38 years, 27 of them long distance and her last 10 in Vermont. She is also survived by her niece Edwina (Skee) Nagahashi-Baer and her husband Joel, nephew Gerald Nagahashi and his wife Susan, nephew Vaughn Nagahashi and his wife Debbie, niece Pauline and her husband Shawn, and nephew Roger Shimada. Other family include great nieces Jessica, Karen, Amy and Keiko and great nephews Brian, Andrew, and Allen.
She was a beautiful, caring, kind, upbeat human being who will be deeply missed by those fortunate to have known her. There will be no Funeral or Memorial Service.
For those who wish, memorial contributions in her name may be made to the Humane Society Of Chittenden County, 142 Kindness Court, South Burlington, VT 05403
Montpelier, VT - Theodore Warner
....show died peacefully in his sleep at Woodridge Nursing Home on November 2, 2015.
Theodore Charles Warner was born November 21, 1930 in Flint, Michigan. Ted spent his summers with his family near the Straits of Mackinaw, Michigan. During his college days at Wapton College of Science in North Dakota he met his beloved wife of 65 years, Kathleen Kinney. Ted and Kay moved to Vermont in 2002 to live close to their children.
Ted is survived by his wife Kathleen, his 4 children Kathy Warner and husband Robert, Patrice Alexander and husband Joseph, Theodore Michael Warner and Gregory Warner and wife Laelia. He is also survived by his grandchildren Todd Hitchins and wife Celia, David Isaac and wife Shannon and their children Rebecca, Brandon and Drew, Moebius Simmons and partner Jen and Heather Johnson and family. Other survivors around the country include sisters Nancy Mier, Vivian Hensel, and Debbie Rohlfs and husband Tom; sisters-in-law Margaret Kinney and Carol Kephart, numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.
Ted was a proud member of the Sault Tribe of Chippewa Indians. Ted worked for various newspapers and publishing firms around the country during his career as a printer and proofreader. A lifelong poet and novelist his latest work of fiction "Dakota Queen" was published when Ted was 83.
A private memorial will be held when Ted is laid to rest at Green Mount Cemetery in Montpelier, VT.
Montpelier, VT - Jeanne Foote Wilber
....show , age 93, died peacefully in her sleep in her room at Heaton Woods on December 20, 2015.
Jeanne was born August 22, 1922 in Burlington, New York to John Curtis and Olive (Telfer) Foote. She grew up on her parents farm in Garrattsville, New York along with her sisters, Irma and Theda, and twin sister, Irene. Many of her fondest memories were of life on the farm.
Jeanne went to Keuka College and then to beauty school after which she opened a beauty parlor in New Berlin, New York. There she met Norman Wilber, who she married on Nov. 24, 1945 and spent her life with until his death on December 20, 1998, 17 years ago to the day of Jeanne's passing.
They made their home in New Berlin before moving to Clifton Park, New York where they spent 12 years before returning to New Berlin. In 1978, while returning home from a visit with their sons in Plainfield, Vermont, they travelled through Cambridge, New York and saw a house for sale that they liked, purchased it and moved there.
Not too long after Norman's death, Jeanne moved to Montpelier, Vermont to be closer to her sons. There she lived independently until moving to Heaton Woods about 2 years ago.
During Jeanne's life she was a beautician, homemaker, and administrative secretary for her husband's business, which sold audio-visual equipment to schools and churches. She loved making crafts, camping in the Adirondacks, and playing cards with her friends and grandsons. She was an active member of the Cambridge community, volunteering at the local hospital thrift-shop, the senior center, and participating in activites at her church.
Jeanne was a very kind and caring person. One of her favorite expressions when asked about her health or living situations and conditions was "I can't complain."
Jeanne is survived by her sons and their wives, Frederick Wilber and Patty Morgan and Dennis and Penny Towers Wilber of Plainfield, Vermont; grandchildren Morgan Wilber of Boston, Mass. and Austin and Mason Wilber of Montpelier; and nephews Ronald Schumann of Beavercreek, Ohio and Robert Schumann of Marcellus, New York.
Burial will be Tuesday, Dec. 22, at Woodlands Cemetery in Cambridge, NY. A memorial service will be held 2:00 pm on Friday, January 8, 2015 at Heaton Woods.
The family requests memorial donations be made to the Central Vermont Humane Society, PO Box 687, Montpelier, Vermont 05601.
Calais,VT - Leslie Ann Bingham Williams
....show passed away on March 27, 2015, surrounded by her large and loving family. Born in Chicago in 1935, Leslie attended the Bronx High School of Science in Bronx, NY. She graduated in 1956 from Antioch College, where she edited the college newspaper, and later obtained an MFA in Writing from Vermont College.
Leslie was an extraordinary mother, grandmother and aunt, a writer, social activist, and teacher. Her unfailing good humor, joy in life, kindness, wisdom and generosity of spirit inspired those who knew her. In her long and varied career, Leslie was an elementary school teacher, and worked as a teacher and then Executive Director of Headstart in Rutland and central Vermont. She taught writing at numerous area colleges over the years, including Vermont College, Community College of Vermont, Vermont Technical College and Springfield College. She served in the Peace Corps in Thailand from 1986-88. Leslie served as the Executive Director of the Vermont American Civil Liberties Union for 12 years. Under her leadership, the ACLU successfully advocated for several landmark supreme court decisions, including equitable education financing and the right to same sex union. Leslie gave the commencement address at the Adult Degree Program of Vermont College in 2000 – the theme, in a nutshell, was based on the following quote from Horace Mann: "Be ashamed to die until you have won some victory for humanity." She won plenty.
Leslie leaves her four children and their partners: George Myers and Leslie Pinkham of Moretown, Sarah and Steve Gallagher, JC and Jen Myers, and Matthew Myers and Louise Low, all of Calais. She leaves 11 grandchildren, a niece and 2 nephews, and her first great-grandchild was born just six weeks before she passed away.
A memorial service will be held at 1:00 p.m. on May 9, 2015, at the Old West Church in Calais. Please carpool if possible as parking is always a challenge. The family invites Leslie’s friends and colleagues to a reception at the Maple Corner Community Center following the service. Donations in lieu of flowers may be made to the Vermont ACLU, 137 Elm St., Montpelier, VT 05602.
Yolanda V. Yenkavitch
....show passed away on May 1, 2015 after a full and loving life of 100 years surrounded by family in the Woodridge Nursing Home, Montpelier, Vermont. Mom was born on January 17, 1915 in Montpelier, Vermont of Francesco Vignocchi and Elena Bonazzi Vignocchi. Her childhood was spent on her parent’s farm in Montpelier, Vermont, days she always spoke of with particular happiness. She graduated from Wilfred Academy of Hair and Beauty Culture in Boston, Massachusetts receiving a Certificate of Distinction at the Academy Style Show. On August 11, 1943 she married Private Joseph J. Yenkavitch, Sr. and used her hairdressing skills at the various bases in the south where he was stationed. She returned to Vermont after her husband was shipped overseas to the European Theater. When her husband returned from the service they both settled in Norwood, Massachusetts and raised their family. She spent those years working at the A&P supermarket in Norwood and then at the Roach Brothers supermarket in Westwood, Massachusetts. Throughout, her main goal was always giving entirely of herself to her family. Her greatest achievement rests here. Mom gave to her family the deepest love anyone could hope to expect. And always, everyone could expect a wonderful dose of her subtle sense of humor. She was a woman with no hate in her heart and saw all people as worthy of respect. Hers was truly a successful life. She was pre-deceased by her husband, Joseph, her adopted son, Cyril Yenkavitch, and sister, Mary Decarreau. She leaves behind her children, Joseph Yenkavitch and his wife Anne Marie, Elaina Yenkavitch, and Charles Yenkavitch and Sherry Gallison, her grandson Jason Yenkavitch and his wife Kerry, her granddaughter Michelle Noonan and her husband Adam, great grandchildren Maggie and Mae Yenkavitch and Parker and Nora Noonan, nephew Francis Decarreau, and mother of the grandchildren, Laura Yenkavitch. We also want to thank the staff at the Woodridge Nursing Home for being so caring during her time there.
A mother’s love is something that no one can explain It is made of deep devotion and of sacrifice and pain, It is endless and unselfish and enduring come what may, For nothing can destroy it or take that love away. Helen Steiner Rice
A funeral service will be held at 11:00 am, Wednesday, May 6th at Guare & Sons/Barber & Lanier Funeral Home, 30 School Street, Montpelier and internment will follow at Plain-Mont Cemetery in East Montpelier. Donations can be sent to the ALS Foundation, NNE Chapter, The Concord Center, 10Ferry Street, Concord, NH 03301; or to Woodridge Nursing Home, PO Box 550, Barre, VT 05641; or to HomeShare of Vermont.
East Montpelier, VT - Florence "Flo" Jean Young
....show , 89, passed away on January 27 at her home in East Montpelier Center. Flo was born in Kalamazoo, Michigan to Frederick and Wilhelmina (Klimp) Huizenga. After graduating from Western Michigan University, she taught high school and performed in Summer Theater for several years in Michigan. She moved to New Jersey before settling in East Montpelier Center in Vermont where she has lived for more than 40 years. As a Vermonter, Flo worked in the Civil Defense Office and served as the Personnel Officer for the Department of Public Safety. As a long-time member of the Central Vermont Theater Guild, Flo was memorable in many of their productions, until recently she was a docent and educational tour guide for the state house, served as the public member for Vermont Medical Board, was an active member of the League of Women Voters, volunteered in the CVMC gift shop, and was Treasurer of U32 School District. She was an engaging teller of stories, drawing on her experiences with theater, politics, politicians and the legislative process. Because of Flo’s vision, a naturalization ceremony is held in the Vermont State House each year. She was preceded in death by her brothers Richard, Charles, and Robert. She is survived by several nephews and nieces - Dwight Huizenga, Gene Huizenga, Willa Furman, Frank Huizenga, Caren Huizenga, Douglas Huizenga, Ritz Huizenga – as well as a number of great nieces and nephews, and her dear friends Kathi Smith and Kathie Retchless. Family and friends are grateful to TLC and Central Vermont Home Health and Hospice for the care and comfort they provided for Flo in her home. Calling hours will be held from 6:00-8:00 pm on Friday, January 30, 2015 at the Guare & Sons/ Barber & Lanier Funeral Home, 30 School Street Montpelier, VT. A committal will take place at a later date in Kalamazoo, MI.
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