Sandra (Hemenway) Wentworth
....show , 73, of Porter Corners, New York, died at home, surrounded by her loving family, on March 10, 2016. She was born in Barton. She worked at BJ’s Wholesale Club for a number of years before retirement.
She was a member of the Quilt North Quilting Club in Clifton Park, New York, and owner of Meme Creative Crafts in Wilton, New York. She enjoyed quilting, crafts, travel, and spending time with her grandchildren.
She is survived by her sons: Kevin Wentworth and his partner, Lori Garceau, Kyle Wentworth and his wife, Jessica, and Keith Wentworth and his partner, Jodie Archer; her daughter-in-law Sue Wentworth; her mother, Shirley Hemenway; her sister Sherri Devine and her husband, Allan; her brother Hale Hemenway and his wife, Sandra Jean; her grandchildren: Erin Wentworth, Aiden Wentworth, and Noah Wentworth; and by her extended family: Carol Mei Jiang and her husband, Joe, Jacqueline Mei, Eugene Mei, and several nieces and nephews
She was predeceased by her sister Kim Hemenway; her son Kerry Wentworth; her father, Fern Hale Hemenway; and by her husband, Nelson M. Wentworth, who died on September 24, 2002.
Funeral services were held in Greenfield Center, New York, on March 19. The family suggests memorial contributions be made to St. Joseph’s Church, P.O. Box 547, Greenfield Center, New York, 12833; or to Community Hospice of Saratoga, 179 Lawrence Street, Saratoga Springs, New York 12866.
Kevin John Wheeler Sr.
....show , 48, of Newport Center, formerly of Lyndonville, died from a heart attack at North Country Hospital in Newport on Monday night, March 14, 2016.
He was born in Brooklyn, New York, on December 19, 1967, son to Joan Ann (Baccellieri) Wheeler and the late James Preston Wheeler. He was raised and educated in carpentry, graduating from Lake Region Union High School in the Class of 1986. He worked at NSA in Lyndonville, and later as a self-employed carpenter. For the past three years he has been employed with Next Level Construction as a contractor.
He was a member of the Pleasant Street Baptist Church in St. Johnsbury and enjoyed fishing, hunting, hiking, swimming, camping, country music, and being outdoors. His level of energy brightened a room and he had an infectious laughter. He and his grandson Kale have formed an everlasting bond and they really enjoyed their time together. He was very passionate about animals and adored his dog Nigel and grand-dog Brutus.
Mr. Wheeler was an excellent friend and always put others ahead of himself. French will sure miss his sidekick and taping buddy. He loved to cook for the neighborhood and wouldn’t take “I’m full” for an answer. In the last three years you wouldn’t see him without his other half, Carrie. She forever changed his life in a positive light. He loved his children dearly and would never hesitate to tell us how proud he was of our accomplishments. He will be missed by everybody who he touched. His memories will be forever cherished.
He is survived by his companion, Carrie Fisher, of Newport Center; his son Kevin Jr., also of Newport Center; his daughter Stacey Newsom and her husband, Sean, of Claremont, New Hampshire; his mother, Joan Wheeler, also of Claremont; a brother, Kenny Wheeler, and his wife, Lisa, of Lyndonville; a sister, Bonnie Ritchotte, and her husband, Tom, of Littleton, New Hampshire; his two grandchildren: Kale Dubois and Camden Allen; his two nieces: Sara Steele and her husband, Jonas, and Samantha Rossi and her husband, Joel; and by his good friends David Silloway and Jeffrey French.
Funeral services were held on March 18 in St. Johnsbury. Burial will take place at the Lyndon Center Cemetery in Lyndonville at 11 a.m. on Saturday, April 16.
Memorial donations may be made to the Lyndon Dog Pound, payable to “Town of Lyndon,” and mailed to Lyndon Town Clerk, P.O. Box 167, Lyndonville, Vermont 05851.
Gary H. “Bear” Birchard
....show , of Troy died on March 1, 2016. He was 65 years old. He was born on February 23, 1951, in Newport. He was a son of Harold and Rita (Deferia) Birchard.
He loved hunting and fishing and especially his dog Angel. He was an awesome chef at many local restaurants. He is survived by his wife, Martha Harris; his three stepchildren: Laura Fricke of Bothell, Washington, Scott Fricke of Thief River Falls, Minnesota, and Stephen Fricke of Oakdale, Connecticut; seven grandchildren: Natasha, Suzanne, and Lilly Krasle, Rothana and Kailyan Fricke, and Kyler and Caleb Fricke; his brother Dean Birchard and his wife, Bonnie, of Newport Center; and by his nephews: Matt Birchard of Newport Center, and Adam Birchard of Troy.
He was predeceased by his parents. Upon his request, there will be no formal services. Memorial contributions may be made in his name to the Pope Memorial Frontier Animal Shelter, 502 Strawberry Acres Road, Newport, Vermont 05855; or to the Green Mountain Conservation Camp Endowment Fund, Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department, 1 National Life Drive, Davis 2, Montpelier, Vermont 05620-3702.
William H. “Howie” Geisel
....show of Derby died on March 8, 2016, just two months shy of his ninety-fourth birthday. He was born in New York City on May 5, 1922, in what he described as “a cold water flat.” All who had the good fortune of knowing this kind and gentle man walked in the presence of one who exemplified selflessness, caring, and humility. He always put the needs of others before his own. As a young man he took care of his aging parents and later welcomed his mother-in-law into his home after he and Dorothy (Murphy) Geisel married in 1946. He was the constant loving and attentive caretaker to his wife when she developed significant physical disabilities during her life. He was always there for those who needed him. When his wife died in 1998, he became a volunteer at North Country Hospital in Newport and greeted patients at the visitors’ desk. He could be found there most Monday afternoons, out on the golf course at Newport Country Club in the summer, or in the company of his children and grandchildren.
He retired from Verizon as an electrical engineer in 1985, having spent 43 years working for American Telephone and Telegraph (AT&T) and its subsidiaries. His attention to detail and his strong analytical mind informed his approach to problem solving when helping someone in need. He never met a mechanical, plumbing, or electrical problem that perseverance and focus couldn’t solve.
He was extremely proud of his children and spoke glowingly of their contributions to the educational community to all who cared to listen. He is survived by his son Rick Geisel and his wife, Laura; his daughter Robyn McCarthy and her husband, Bill; his daughter Roni Murphy and her husband, John; and by his nine grandchildren, two great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and many friends and acquaintances.
The family invites friends to join them at his house at 40 Roberts Drive in Derby on March 26 from 3 to 5 p.m., to remember his long life well lived. The family also invites people to share their memories and condolences by visiting awrfh.com.
Peyton E. Powers
....show of Albany died unexpectedly on Thursday, March 10, 2016. He was three months old. He was born on December 3, 2015, in Morrisville. He was the son of Jesse and Morgan (Hollen) Powers.
He is survived by his parents; his sister Grace; his grandparents, Jerry and Cheryl; and by all of his extended family. Peyton no longer has to fight and his body is now healed.
A memorial service will be held at the Albany elementary school on Saturday, March 19, at 11 a.m., with the Reverend Alden Launer officiating. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in his memory to the Ronald McDonald House, 16 South Winooski Avenue, Burlington, Vermont 05401.
Robert O. Williams
....show , 82, of Burke Hollow died peacefully at his home on Friday morning, March 11, 2016. He was born in Freeport, Maine, on June 7, 1933, to the late Howard Everett and Elizabeth Rose (Bean) Williams. He was raised and educated in Marlborough, Massachusetts, and later attended the Worcester School of Business Science. He proudly served eight years in the U.S. Navy in the 1950s as a boiler tender second class.
He married the former Jane Mary Carrigan and they shared 50 years together. They made their home in Northborough, Massachusetts, before moving to Barton and then Burke Hollow in 2003.
He enjoyed antique gasoline engines and was past president of the Vermont Gas and Steam Engine Association. He was not one to sit idle for long and was incredibly talented and motivated to create in so many ways. He loved to restore unique antiques and any kind of small, old engine. He built beautiful furniture from boards out of old barns, and loved to be out in the woods, cutting down and sawing out lumber on his little sawmill. He loved spending time on the coast of Maine with his family, going to yard sales and auctions, and he was an avid reader. He owned and operated a milk transport business in central Massachusetts and later owned and operated the Black River Lumber Company in Irasburg, before retiring and moving to Burke Hollow.
In addition to his beloved wife, Jane, he is survived by his two daughters: Carol Mason and her husband, KC, of Lyndonville, and Tedi Shoemaker and her husband, Ned, of Millis, Massachusetts; a brother, Daniel Williams, and a sister, Thelma Williams, both of Grafton, Massachusetts; a granddaughter, Elizabeth; and by several cousins, nieces, and nephews, and many longtime engine show friends.
Funeral services will be held at 3 p.m., on Sunday, March 20, at the Guibord Funeral Home at the corner of Main and Center streets in Lyndonville. Friends may call on the family from 1 to 3 p.m. for visitation at the funeral home prior to services on Sunday. A spring committal service will take place in May with the family.
Sister Lydia Dargie
....show , 85, FCSCJ (Sister Cecile de Marie), a Daughter of the Charity of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, died after a long illness on July 20, 2016, at the Holy Cross Health Care Center in Manchester, New Hampshire.
Lydia Dargie was born January 2, 1931, in East Ryegate. She was the daughter of Alfred Dargie and Annie (Fillion) Dargie. Lydia Dargie professed her vows with her religious congregation on July 3, 1951. During her 65 years of religious profession Sister Lydia served in various missions in Champlain and Morrisonville, New York; Newport, Burlington, Rutland, and Barton; Colebrook and Littleton, New Hampshire. Since 2013, Sister Lydia had resided at the Holy Cross Health Care Center in Manchester, New Hampshire, due to declining health.
Sister Lydia was a dedicated math teacher for much of her active life. She was especially happy to cheer on students who needed a boost of confidence, and willingly encouraged the arts and crafts — dimensions which she believed enhanced students’ capacity for learning concepts, both in the classroom and in life situations. Students readily stayed connected with her over the years, which Sister Lydia cherished as her teaching transitioned into administration and office work, in either a school setting or in a diocesan center. She loved to grow flowers and marveled at the beauty of nature.
Sister Lydia was predeceased by her parents, and her brother Ernest. She is survived by a brother, Everett, of Springfield, Massachusetts; and a sister, Dora Ward, of St. Johnsbury; by several nieces and nephews, by special niece, Robin Scarbeau of Essex Junction; and by her sisters in the religious community.
Memorial donations in Sister Lydia’s memory may be sent to the Daughters of the Charity of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, 226 Grove Street, Littleton, New Hampshire 03561.
Merrill E. Guyette Jr.
....show , 77, of Derby, died on July 18, 2016, in Newport. He was born on June 1, 1939, in Newport, to Merrill and Ruby (Waterman) Guyette Sr. In November of 1964 he married Kathleen Rideout, who survives him. Mr. Guyette entered the United States Air Force and was a veteran of the Vietnam War. He was a foreman for Winterset Construction Company. His hobbies included working on cars and tinkering around the house.
He is survived by his wife, Kathleen Guyette of Derby; by his children: Doug Hillman of Ventura, California, Thomas Bussell and his wife, Patricia Place, of Derby, Tim Bussell and his wife, Cathy, of Derby Line, Don Bussell of Pasorobles, California, Susan Oster and her husband, Mark, of New Paris, Pennsylvania, and Sherry Armstrong of Derby; by 13 grandchildren; 23 great-grandchildren; by his brother Mike Guyette and his wife, Kathy, of Derby; by his sisters: Marilyn Currier of Newport, Muriel Dunn of Rouses Point, New York, Mary Gonyaw of Hartford, Connecticut, and Carol York of Manchester, New Hampshire; by his half-brothers: David Guyette and his wife, Carol, of Newport Center, Robert Guyette of North Troy, and John Guyette and his wife, Lisa, of North Troy. He was predeceased by his half-brother Jimmy Guyette.
Services will be held at the convenience of the family. Should friends desire, contributions in his memory may be made to the Mary Wright Halo Foundation, 1073 Upper Quarry Road, Newport, Vermont 05855.
David Neil Holland
....show , 65, of Acton, Massachusetts, died July 19, 2016. Born March 11, 1951, in Toronto, Ontario, to the late Francis E. and Lucy E. Holland, he grew up in Derby Line. He was educated at Derby Academy and Vermont Academy and graduated from the University of Puget Sound in Tacoma, Washington. He enjoyed being outside; he hunted, fished, played golf, and skied while growing up. He traveled around the world and spent time in Nepal, which was a special place to him. He was a history and special education teacher in the Malden, Massachusetts school system and had a positive impact on many children’s lives in their formative years.
He is survived by his wife of 33 years, Michele B. (Barkett) Holland; twin daughters Emily Ellen Holland and Melissa Margaret Holland; and grandson John Carey Thompson VI, all of Ayer, Massachusetts; by his mother Lucy E. (Hart) Holland of Derby Line; sister Judith Bairstow of Sebastian, Florida; and brother Thomas Holland of Delmar, New York.
Instead of flowers, donations can be made to the Special School for Disabled and Rehabilitation Center in Katmandu, Nepal. The school can be found on Facebook under the name Sabita Upreti Ssdrc, or visit the website at www.ssdrc.org.np/.
Karen Karnes
....show , 90, a pioneer of the modern studio pottery movement, known for moving seamlessly between creating functional ware and complex, modernist sculptures, died July 12, at her home in Morgan.
Her death was announced by Ann Stannard, Ms. Karnes’s life companion. Today Ms. Karnes’s life in art appears preordained. As a young student at Brooklyn College she studied with Serge Chermeyoff, who led her to Black Mountain College and Joseph Albers, then a year in Italy where she met Gio Ponti. She returned in 1950 to study under Charles Harder at Alfred University, and then back to Black Mountain where she became part of one the most important collective art communities of the twentieth century. It was there that Ms. Karnes first gained national attention for imbuing traditional forms with a minimalist design aesthetic. Each cup, bowl and casserole was unique, the previous one inspiring the next, while collectively being part of a singular exploration of form.
In 1954, Ms. Karnes left Black Mountain College with writer/artist MC Richards, pianist David Tudor, composer John Cage, and architect and patron Paul Williams and his wife, writer Vera Williams, to found the Gate Hill Cooperative outside of New York City. This “Black Mountain for adults” became Ms. Karnes’s home for the next 25 years. While at Gate Hill, Ms. Karnes produced a series of press-molded and coiled architecturally-scaled planters, birdbaths, fireplaces, and chairs that announced her originality and creative ambition.
In 1967, at Gate Hill, Ms. Karnes built a salt kiln, a decision that would play a significant role reviving nationally this centuries old technique. From this point her work took off and she began to make some of the most iconic studio ceramics of the era: cut-lidded jars, large scale vases, bowls, moving away from more modest tableware. She said, “[Salt-glazing]…forced me into another place, and once the leap was made, I kept growing.” Her well-known salt-glazed jars with their straightforward rising forms and striated facets of wire cuts on the top of the lids, are one of the longest and most personal explorations of a single form in the field. This model of studio production, in which a popular, iconic, and useful pot undergirds and supports more experimental and evolving bodies of work, is one that many studio potters have employed successfully since.
In the late 1970s, Ms. Karnes left Gate Hill for Vermont. Having moved with Ann Stannard, her companion of many years, Ms. Karnes began making some of her most ambitious work: larger thrown vessels and asymmetrical ones, coil-built over thrown bases. The pots often embraced color: blues, greens and yellows, subtly modified by the wood flame and ash. These works showed a new complexity, moving between commonplace polarities of pot/sculpture, landscape/body, male/female, spiritual/physical, and inside/outside. Several bodies of work followed: massive cut-lidded jars, pots with slits that ran up added hollow bases that might be larger than the body of the vessel itself, and forms with reaching “wings,” also divided by slits. Additionally, she produced forms with added necks, tulipieres, and boulder-like shapes with craters, some open to the inside, some not.
During this period, Ms. Karnes showed at the Garth Clark Gallery in New York City, as well as other leading galleries such as Joanne Rapp, Habitat/Shaw, Ester Saks, and Leedy/Voulkos. She received multiple awards and honors over these years: a National Endowment for the Arts Visual Artist fellowship, The Society of Arts and Crafts (Boston) Medal of Excellence, the Vermont Arts Council Governor’s Award for Excellence in the Arts, the American Crafts Council’s Gold Medal, and the Watershed Legends Award.
Her work was the subject of the retrospective exhibition A Chosen Path: The Ceramic Art of Karen Karnes that originated at Arizona State University Art Museum in 2011 and traveled to the Asheville Art Museum, the Currier Museum of Art, the Racine Art Museum and The Crocker Art Museum. Ms. Karnes’s work is in the permanent collections of those five museums and many more including the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Brooklyn Museum, the American Craft Museum, the Philadelphia Museum of Art, the Los Angeles County Museum of Art and the Victoria and Albert Museum.
Ms. Karnes’s family, friends and neighbors - all are welcome - to join in on a celebration of her art and life on September 11, 2016 at the Unitarian Church (opposite the Irving gas station) in Derby Line, at 4 p.m. — submitted by Kurt Sundstrom and Mark Shapiro.
Scott W. Keysar
....show , 73, died peacefully at his home in Derby early Friday morning in the loving arms of his wife, Sue. He was born October 25, 1942, in Hartland, Maine, son of the late Berkeley and Marion (Parkman) Keysar (Alley). The family moved to Derby Line in 1948, where Mr. Keysar grew up on Main Street and was known and loved by everyone for his friendly and outgoing personality. His love of all sports began as a member of Doc Stuart’s first Little League team. He was a baseball and basketball player in high school, a hockey goalie in middle age, and an avid Red Sox fan forever. Mr. Keysar graduated from Derby Academy in 1960 and Vermont Technical College in 1962 with a degree in highway engineering. He immediately commenced his career with the Vermont Agency of Transportation, and through his work at District 9, he developed close relationships with fellow employees and town officials. He was responsible for designing, constructing, and securing funding for many highway improvement projects throughout the Northeast Kingdom. Mr. Keysar retired in 2014 after 52 years.
Mr. Keysar met the love of his life, Susan Tetreault, of Newport Center, and they were married on September 30, 1978. They built a home together out of the woods in Derby, raised their sons Stephen and Jason, and enjoyed their many close friends and family members. Mr. Keysar was motivated to see his sons complete college, and find partners, and one of the greatest joys in his life was to spend time with his two grandchildren. Having done all this, may he rest in peace. Mr. Keysar is survived by his wife, Susan; sons Stephen and his wife, Phuong, and children Elliot and Lily of Aurora, Colorado, son Jason and his partner, Sara DeFilippi, of Brooklyn, New York; sister Nancy Porter and husband, Bruce, of Bonita Springs, Florida; and brother Steven Keysar and wife, Karlene, of South Hero. He is also survived by his sisters-in-law: Patricia Laber and her husband, Scott, of Derby, Margaret Derick and husband, Mike, of Newport; by brothers-in-law: Tom Tetreault and wife, Mary, of Newport Center, and Richard Tetreault and wife, Susan, of Newport Center.
Mr. Keysar was a beloved uncle to many nieces and nephews. Friends may call on Friday July 29, 2016, at the Curtis-Britch-Converse-Rushford Funeral Home, 37 Lake Road, Newport from 9 to 11 a.m., followed by a celebration of his life at 11 a.m., with Pastor Glenn Saaman officiating. Should friends desire, contributions in his memory may be made to the Ronald Holland Dialysis Center, in care of North Country Hospital, 189 Prouty Drive, Newport, Vermont 05855.
Jeremy Michael Maxwell
....show , 32, beloved son of Vanessa Raymond and Paul Maxwell, died on July 19, 2016, at his home in Coventry. Born and raised in the Northeast Kingdom, Mr. Maxwell’s passion for the outdoors was present in everything he did. An avid hunter and fisherman, he enjoyed being in nature and the woods, so it was only fitting that he worked his way up to becoming a foreman with Asplundh Tree Experts. His friends and family fondly remember a smile that never left his face, a kind and generous heart, and a palpable and genuine love for those who were lucky enough to have known him.
He is survived by his fiancé, the absolute love of his life, Katie Ste. Marie; his mother, Vanessa Raymond, and her fiancé, David Palmer; and his father, Paul Maxwell; by his treasured sister Torrie Maxwell, his rock, with whom he shared his soul, and her fiancé, Charles Sanville; by his brother and forever “bud” Brandon Maxwell, who learned and laughed by Jeremy’s side, always looking up to his trusted brother and best friend; by his brothers Paul Maxwell Jr. and Jonah Kontoes; and his sister Ashley Maxwell; by his adored aunt Teresa La Porte and her husband, David; by his cousins: Shane, Tom, Michael, Jay, Jacob, and Linzy; by his nieces and nephews: Payson, Harlee, Bentley, Keagan, Harper, Hailey and Rayna; and by his dog, Remington. He was predeceased by his aunt Melissa Chamberlin and by his grandparents Roland and Estelle Raymond.
Should friends desire, and in lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to assist with funeral expenses. Donations can be mailed to: care of Vanessa Raymond, 363 Hugh Herron Road, Saranac, New York 12981.
Tom Nelson
....show , 79, formerly of Albany and Irasburg, died peacefully on July 16, 2016, at Maple Lane Nursing Home where he had been a resident since May 23.
He was born in Albany, on July 2, 1937. He was the son of Allen and Marion (Hoyt) Nelson. He attended elementary school in Albany and graduated from Craftsbury Academy in 1956. He dedicated his life to farming on the family farm in Albany until he retired on July 2, 1999.
Following his retirement, he lived for 13 years in Orleans before moving to The Meadows housing complex in Irasburg in December 2012. During his earlier years, he enjoyed bowling, snowmobiling, tractor and horse pulls at the county fairs, woodworking, his “coffee club” at Bob’s Quick Stop in Irasburg, and being outdoors. He will fondly be remembered for his easy going, good-natured personality, his integrity and honesty, and his quick, genuine smile.
Mr. Nelson never married or had children of his own, but experienced several special bonds and friendships with his hired hands who worked beside him on the farm, in particular his “right-hand men,” Randy and Raymond Pierce, who have kept in touch with him over the past 30 years. He looked forward to their annual summer visits on their trips back to Vermont. He was also a special part of his nieces’ families: Shelly Morey and her husband, Michael, of Newport; and Sonya Kittredge and her husband, Paul, of Albany. He enjoyed celebrating birthdays and holidays with them. Yankee Swaps will never be the same without him!
He is also survived by his brother Roger and his wife, Beatrice, of Derby Line; by his niece Beccy Hardy, and her husband, John, of Derby Line; by his nephews Scott Nelson of Coventry, Stacey Nelson of Essex, Bill Nelson of Lyndonville; and by several nieces and nephews from Washington State who traveled to Vermont and met him for the first time just three short weeks ago.
Mr. Nelson is also survived by his great-nephews: Benjamin Kittredge, Matthew Kittredge, Scott Nelson Jr., John Curtis Hardy, Thomas Hardy, and Cooper Nelson; great-nieces Tessa Nelson and Jenna Morey; and by his sister-in-law Janet Nelson of Albany.
He was predeceased by his parents; by his brother George Nelson in 2013; and by his sister Ruth Lamotte in 2014. Donations in his memory can be made to Green Mountain Farm to School, 194 Main Street, Suite 301, Newport, Vermont 05855.
Scott E. Perkins
....show , 44, of West Charleston, died in Lebanon, New Hampshire, on July 19, 2016, after a long illness. He was born on September 14, 1971, in Newport, a son of Margaret (Bresse) Perkins and the late Gerald Perkins.
He graduated from North Country Union High School. At the age of 16, he started working in the maintenance department at North Country Hospital and rose to obtain the supervisor position. Mr. Perkins really appreciated his fellow workers and the concern that they showed through his illness. He and his companion, Anick, enjoyed going camping with the trailer, traveling to Maine, fishing, and snowmobiling. They also loved his motorcycle, four wheeling, and being with his friends. He would willingly lend a hand to anyone, enjoyed being a jokester, and spending a lot of time with his daughter, Emily, taking great pride in all of her many accomplishments, as she was the center of his life.
He is survived by his companion, Anick Desorcy; his daughter Emily Perkins; his mother, Margaret Perkins; his brother Steven Perkins and his wife, Cresta; by several aunts, uncles, and cousins; by his niece Maleighna; by his nephews: Tyson and Brock, and by grand-nephew Stephen. Mr. Perkins was predeceased by his sister Elizabeth, his father, Gerald, and by grandparents Ralph and Mable Perkins, and Ernest and Lucille Bresse.
Should friends desire, contributions in his memory may be made to the Mary Wright Halo Foundation, 1073 Upper Quarry Road, Newport, Vermont 05855.
Kenneth C. Pierce Jr.
....show , 90, of Newport, died on July 23, 2016, at North Country Hospital, with his loving family by his side. He was born in St. Johnsbury on May 30, 1926, to Kenneth C. Pierce Sr. and Maude (Davis) Pierce. His mother passed away when he was five years old, and he was then raised by his father and stepmother, Ozilda “Rose” (Choquette) Pierce.
Mr. Pierce married Mary Jean Blake on May 15, 1948. To this union were born three children, who along with his loving wife of 68 years, survive him: Daniel Pierce and his wife, Cindy, of Mount Joy, Pennsylvania, Cathryn Comar and her husband, Jim, of East Dorset, and Susan Wright and her husband, Roy, of Derby. He is also survived by his grandchildren: Trish Pierce White, Jessup Pierce, Ryan Comar, Amy Comar Pickering, and Devan, Damen and Taylor Wright; along with eight great-grandchildren: Judah, Aliyah and Sarayah White, Jack Pierce, Lily Comar, Corbin Pickering, and Brody and Myles Wright. He is also survived by a sister, Penny Flood of Newport; and by a brother, David Pierce of Northfield, Massachusetts; and by numerous nieces and nephews.
Mr. Pierce was predeceased by his parents, and by two brothers, Ronald and Winthrop. Prior to his marriage, Mr. Pierce served his country during World War II in the U.S. Army. He was part of the U.S. mainland Japan Assault Force, and was aboard a troop ship when the Japanese surrendered. He was then stationed in Nara, Japan, to help the Japanese people reorganize their lives following the war. Following the war, Mr. Pierce worked for the railroad for a short time, and tried his hand at owning his own log truck, which proved to be less than safe or profitable.
However, following his marriage to Ms. Blake, he still pursued his passion for trucking and drove the highways and byways of Vermont and New England for the majority of his life. He hauled grain for Eastern States Farmer’s Exchange, hauled milk for Earl Hackett, and Nelson Farms, and then asphalt for Pike Industries in his later years. He was the first bulk tank milk driver hired by H.P. Hood Milk Company, and eventually became manager of their truck fleet in Newport. When Hood’s sold their truck fleet, Mr. Pierce became a field man for Northern Farms Milk Coop until their closing. Needless to say, Mr. Pierce knew every road in Orleans County and beyond, and knew just about every farmer as well.
Mr. Pierce was also a volunteer fire fighter for the Newport City Fire Department and Ambulance Squad for many years, and was always out the door when the fire whistle blew or the “red phone” rang at the house. He was a member of the American Legion Post 21, and the United Church of Newport.
Mr. Pierce loved the outdoors and was an avid hunter and fisherman. He loved going to his deer camp on Bald Mountain every November, and spent many hours playing cribbage with his hunting buddies and father.
However, the pride of his life was his summer cottage on Lake Seymour where he and Mrs. Pierce spent every summer for the last 50 years. During his later years, he loved to sit on his front porch and watch the boats come and go. He especially loved it when his grandson and best friend, Ryan Comar, with whom he had a unique and special relationship, restored his old boat and would take him out on the lake fishing once again.
In his retirement, Mr. Pierce never forgot his community, donating many hours as a volunteer at North Country Hospital, and driving veterans back and forth from White River Junction in the Disabled American Veterans van. Mr. Pierce was very social and had the “gift of gab” and loved meeting and talking with anyone and everyone.
Mr. Pierce loved his family and will be greatly missed. Friends may call from 6 to 8 p.m. on Wednesday, July 27 at the Curtis-Britch-Converse-Rushford Funeral Home, 4670 Darling Hill Road, in Newport.
Funeral services will be held at 10 a.m. on Thursday, July 28 at the United Church of Newport. Interment will take place at 1:30 p.m. at the West Village Cemetary in West Charleston with full military honors.
Should friends desire, contributions in his memory may be made to the Mary Wright Halo Foundation, 1073 Upper Clyde Street, Newport, Vermont 05855, or to the United Church of Newport, Third Street, Newport, Vermont 05855.
Laurette A. Woodworth
....show , 72, of North Troy, died on July 20, 2016, in Newport. She was born on April 12, 1944, in Jay. She was the daughter of Ernest and Beatrice (Voyer) Mayhew.
Ms. Woodworth was a wonderful cook, always reading cookbooks and trying new recipes. She also loved doing word search puzzles, enjoyed her cats, and cared for her yard.
She is survived by her brothers Raymond Mayhew and his wife, Debbie, of North Troy, and Marcel Mayhew and his wife, Kathy, of Jay; by her sister Mary Jane LaPan of Jay; and also by numerous nieces and nephews whom she loved to visit with.
She was predeceased by her parents, and by her husband, Glover Woodworth. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Ms. Woodworth’s name to her sister Mary Jane LaPan, P.O. Box 85, North Troy, Vermont 05859, to help defray expenses.
The world lost a legendary Navy attack pilot and naval officer with the death of Captain (retired) Ralph C. “Mouse” Miko
....show , USN on July 10, 2016. Captain Miko was born August 24, 1950, in Rantoul, Illinois, and was a 1973 graduate of Florida State University. Captain Miko was commissioned an ensign in 1974, and served in the Attack Squadron 176 Thunderbolts, Attack Squadron 55 Warhorses, and Attack Squadron 85 Black Falcons. During his ten major overseas deployments, including his tour as the Carrier Air Wing 7 Landing Signal Officer, Captain Miko participated in combat operations off the coast of Libya (1986), and the entirety of Operation Desert Storm (1991). By the pinnacle of his career as the commanding officer of VA-85, he had been awarded the Commander Michael G. Hoff Award, as 1988 Attack Aviator of the Year, and had earned two Distinguished Flying Crosses (with the Combat “V”), three individual air medals (with the Combat “V”), and numerous additional unit and campaign awards. Captain Miko amassed an astonishing 4,600 flight hours in seven types of aircraft, and 1,100 “traps”, and the long-standing records of the Navy’s Tailhook Association indicate that he may have literally been the finest carrier aviator of all time, with 42 “Top Ten” Awards, for his performance behind the ship — for unsurpassed precision in his carrier landing skills. One of the most extraordinary A-6 Intruder pilots throughout the Atlantic Fleet, there are hundreds of aviators, officers, and the very finest enlisted personnel who would have unhesitatingly followed him anywhere, under even the most demanding operational and intense combat conditions.
Captain Miko ended his Naval career with tours on the NATO staff in Belgium, and on the staff of the Chief of Naval Operations. Upon retirement in 2001, he became a much-loved community leader in Derby Line, where he remained, until a final move to Murrayville, Georgia, in 2015. Captain Miko is survived by his wife, Jennie, originally from Tallahassee, Florida; their two children and spouses, Edward and Marcee, and Samantha and Mike; three grandchildren; his parents and four siblings; and a very long list of close relatives who will miss him dearly.
Memorial contributions can be made to the A-6 Intruder Association, Wings Over America, American Cancer Society, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, or to the charity of your choice.
John T. Nelson
....show , 80, died Wednesday, July 13, 2016, at the St. Johnsbury Health and Rehabilitation Center following a sudden illness. Mr. Nelson was born March 30, 1936, in Haverhill, New Hampshire, the son of the late Robert and Lottie (Gochee) Nelson. He grew up in and around St. Johnsbury and graduated from St. Johnsbury Trade School. On September 21, 1956 he married the former Patricia Gilman and shared nearly 60 years together. He was a hunter and fisherman and was able to take fishing trips to Alaska. He enjoyed cutting wood and taking trips to Maine to spend time at the ocean. For over 50 years he worked at Vermont Tap and Die. John was an avid worker, but a very devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather.
Survivors include his wife of 60 years, Patricia; son, Michael Nelson, and his wife, Julie, of Orleans; daughter, Terri Nelson of Sheffield; brothers, Donald “Donnie” Nelson, and his wife, Geraldine, of Sheffield, Ronald “Ronnie” Nelson of St. Johnsbury, Phillip “Bingy” Nelson, and his wife, Barb, of St. Johnsbury; sisters, Lillian “Sis” Treagus, and her husband, George, of St. Johnsbury, Florence “Tootie” Matthewson of St. Johnsbury, Ruth “Ruthie” Woodward, and her husband, Leonard, of Danville, Lottie “Jayne” Nelson of Lyndonville, Francis “Frannie” Nelson of Wells River; grandchildren, Elysha Thurston, and her husband, Matt, Christopher Eastman, David “Ben” Nelson, Danielle Nelson, and her husband Tucker Dunlavey, and Tricia Eckhardt; five great-grandchildren: Lilah, Grady, Reed, Jamison, and Elijah; and several nieces and nephews.
John was predeceased by three brothers: Robert “Pat,” Scott “Bill,” and Paul Nelson; a sister, Harriett Davis; and a sister-in-law, Dorothy Nelson. At the convenience of the family, a private graveside service will be at the Lyndon Center Cemetery with the Rev. Barbara Dwyer officiating.
Memorial donations may be made to the Santa Fund, 1187 Main Street, Suite 3, St. Johnsbury, Vermont 05819.
Madison Rose Simoneau
....show , 15, of Newport, died on July 12, 2016, in Boston. She was born on December 25, 2000, in Newport, beloved daughter of Tammy (Hetrick) Simoneau and the late Timothy Simoneau. Madison graduated from Newport City schools and would have entered North Country Union High School in the fall.
Madison, Miss Madi, or Mad Hatter as she was frequently called, was an amazing, courageous, spirited young lady who impacted everyone she met. You couldn’t help but smile or laugh when she did. She drew you into a place that brought you such joy and happiness with her wonderful personality. Madison was tested with trials and tribulations every day, and approached them with tenacity and grit. Her heart light shined like the sun and warmed your heart and filled it with love. Madison is now in heaven with her dad, wearing her sparkling wings, and her heart light will now fill the sky. We love you, Madison!
She is survived by her mother, Tammy Simoneau, of Newport; by her siblings, Samantha, Korrie, Morgan, Riley, Jayden, and Landon Simoneau, all of Newport. She is also survived by her niece, Penelope Longe; by her grandmother Linda Simoneau of Newport; and by a very large extended family in the Newport area.
A celebration of life party will be held August 28, at Crystal Lake State Park in Barton, from noon until closing. Hot dogs, hamburgers, and drinks will be provided. Please bring a side dish, and anything you need for the beach. The family hopes to see you there to celebrate this amazing young lady’s life.
Should friends desire, contributions in her memory may be made to the Boston Children’s Hospital, 300 Longwood Avenue, Boston, Massachusetts 02115; or to the Vermont Association for the Blind and Visually Impaired, 60 Kimball Avenue, South Burlington, Vermont 05403; or to Prevent Child Abuse of Vermont, 94 Main Street, #3, Montpelier, Vermont 05602; or to Make a Wish of Vermont, 431 Pine Street #214, Burlington, Vermont 05401. Online condolences can be made at curtis-britch.com.
Eric Stevens
....show , most beloved father, grandfather, husband and friend, died peacefully at his home in East Charleston on Friday, July 15, 2016, in the company of his loving family. He fought a courageous battle for the past years with a cruel and rare neurological disease, multiple systems atrophy. In spite of the challenges he faced, he never lost his smile or his ability to make others smile.
Born in Moorestown, New Jersey, November 23, 1948, to Joseph S. and Constance Stevens, he found his home in East Charleston in the early 1970s. Settling on Echo Lake, he created his homestead and lived a contented and active life. There he raised his family, ran a bed and breakfast for many years, planted and maintained an ornamental tree nursery, tended his prolific garden, and cultivated his friendships. Mr. Stevens was an avid trout fisherman and steward of Echo Lake and the surrounding Clyde River watershed. He volunteered to raise trout at the Morgan fish hatchery for over a decade, supporting the efforts of the Vermont Fish and Wildlife Conservation Group. He also lived to ride his bicycle, clocking miles and miles as he traversed the highways and back roads of Orleans and Essex counties with his best buddies. With the change of seasons, he’d get out on his backcountry skis, trekking where few would ever think to venture on foot, much less skis or snowshoes.
He is best known by many around the North Country for all the years he played lead guitar in rock and roll bands — the Shuffle Band, Commotions, and BTUs most famously. Many have fantastic memories of gigs at the Osborne Hotel, Gantre’s, the Valley House hotel in Orleans, and many other venues. He also played a mean banjo in his early days, acoustic guitar, and most recently dobro, playing bluegrass and other more eclectic tunes with his friends and family in his kitchen band. Above all, he appreciated technical proficiency in the musicians he admired, and in craftsmanship and artistry of all kinds. Mr. Stevens sought that proficiency in his own musicianship and all else he accomplished.
His countless friends and neighbors, as well as many business and professional acquaintances who became his friends over the years, will all miss his ready smile, his priceless wit and intelligence, his quiet and at times irreverent humor. He was endlessly curious and interested in so many and varied subjects and causes. In his last days, his voracious appetite for reading allowed him to explore the world beyond his armchair, learn of cultures beyond his domain, and continue to meet new people — in fiction and nonfiction — as he so enjoyed doing his whole life long.
His love for his friends, for music and nature, and for people from every walk of life was surpassed only by his love for his daughters: Jossamber, and her husband, Barnaby Shapiro, of Stowe, and Samantha, and her husband, Danny Kinsley, of Winooski; and for his wife of 38 years and greatest love, Peggy. He was also the proud and adoring “Poppy” to Jacob and Leila Shapiro, and to his third grandchild, baby Stevens-Kinsley, due in November. He is survived as well by his brother Joseph W. Stevens, and his wife, Susan, of Haverford, Pennsylvania; by his nephews Joe and Andy and their families; and his stepson Moss Jennings, all of California. Special thanks to his medical doctors, the nurses and therapists of Orleans-Essex Visiting Nurse Association and Hospice, and to caregivers Jessica Welch and Jeff Scelza, and their daughter Allayna.
Family and all his many friends and neighbors are welcome to gather to celebrate his life on July 23, from 1 to 4 p.m., at the NorthWoods Stewardship Center in East Charleston. Donations in his memory may be made to Patient Choices Vermont, P.O. Box 671, Shelburne, Vermont 05482, or online at patientchoices.org, or to the Charleston Volunteer Fire Department, care of Blair Moulton, CVFD Treasurer, 71 East Echo Lake Road, West Charleston, Vermont 05872.
Marilyn (Marni) Elizabeth (Cochran) Surdy
....show , 85, of Derby, died on July 11, 2016, at her home on Lake Salem. She was born on February 17, 1931, in Derby, to Ralph and Helen (Crawford) Cochran. She married Dr. Theodore Ernest “Ted” Surdy, who predeceased her on September 7, 1998.
She graduated from Derby Academy and later received her bachelor’s degree from Boston Deaconess Hospital. She worked as a registered nurse for many years.
She is survived by her children: Craig Cochran Surdy and his wife, Renee Ann, Dr. Theodore Michael “Mickey” Surdy and his wife, Nancy, Sandra “Sandie” Ann O’Harrow and her husband, Harry, and Dr. James “Jim” Edward Surdy and his wife, Kristin; by her grandchildren: Janelle Marie Kandziora and her husband, Chris, Craig Ryan Surdy, Theodore Nash Surdy, Taryn Surdy and her husband, Ben Kunath, Delaney McConkey and her husband, Pat, Cory O’Harrow, Amy Strauser and her husband, Scott, Ashly Haugland and her husband, Ben, Derek O’Harrow, Jamie Surdy, Marnie Surdy, Connor Surdy, Jordan Cotter, and Ashtin Cotter. She is also survived by her great-grandchildren: Aiden Kandziora, Mason Kandziora, Asher McConkey, Dryden Strauser, Adison Strauser, Emma Haugland, Emmie Cotter, and Beckam Cotter.
Services will be held at the convenience of the family.
Henry Laszlo Ecker-Racz
....show - February 16, 1989 - July 5, 2016 - Our son Laszlo was given the names of his grandfathers, who died within a few days of each other in 1988. Somehow life threw many curve balls at our beautiful son, who scrambled hard to find his footing. Prolonged bullying in school, a lack of self-confidence despite magnificent physical and mental capabilities, and eventually ten years of drugs and alcohol with the accompanying petty crime drove him and his family to despair. However, before the end of his life he found peace. Never was he more thoughtful, wise, and capable. We are grateful that he was finally realizing his potential.
Las was always kind, helping anyone in need. When he was 12 he organized a house-painting expedition to help his elderly neighbor, whom he had come to love as a surrogate grandmother. It took days to accomplish, but he stuck with the project until it was finished. When he became a driver, he never passed someone who needed assistance. A good neighbor, he would always stop to help get in the hay bales. He was a gifted athlete, always going like bejesus in the woods and on the black diamond ski trails. His capable mind was second to none. He had an old soul.
We can’t begin to understand how he could be working with his father happily one moment, and an hour later dead after drowning in a small brook. Neighbors and Glover Ambulance did their best to resuscitate him to no avail. We are grateful for their efforts.
If you are a friend or acquaintance and wish to visit with his spirit, he will forever be near the small cemetery in the woods above Nick’s house. He loved his family and friends, the woods, hard work, sweet corn, chicken roasted over a fire, pie, music and hearty laughter. Oh my, how he loved to fish and hunt. He was expert. He played and worked with equal zest. You will find those echoes of his short life lived with goodness and kindnesses, large and small, near his spirit. You are welcome to visit.
He is survived by his mother and father; maternal grandmother; their families; his two small children Odin and Ellyeana; their mother, Michelle; and his many, many friends and neighbors.
You are invited to a celebration of his life on July 30 at 3 p.m., at 3336 Perron Hill in Glover. There will be food (catered plus potluck), drink, music, and a quiet time to help his spirit rest. It will be a beautiful day. — Nick Ecker-Racz and Heidi Ecker-Racz
Avis Pike Harper
....show , 100, of Barton, died on July 5, 2016 in Glover. She was born in Irasburg on July 19, 1915, the daughter of Clement Eugene and Nettie (Healey) Pike.
She married Alexander Harper of Craftsbury on June 24, 1939, who predeceased her in 1991. Mrs. Harper graduated from Craftsbury Academy in 1934, and in 1938 from the University of Vermont with a major in home economics, and then taught school in Addison.
Mrs. Harper was very active in her community of Barton by teaching school, serving as president of the Barton Ladies Improvement Society for about 50 years, secretary of the Barton Chamber Apartments, Inc., for many years, first board secretary of Lake Region Union High School, and helped start the Barton Medical Clinic. She was also a member of the Lakeside #27 Chapter Order of the Eastern Star, member of the North Country Hospital Auxiliary, Barton United Church, Daughter’s of the American Revolution, and the Crystal Lake Falls Historical Association. Mrs. Harper retired after many years as a real estate broker.
Mrs. Harper leaves her son: Winston Harper and his wife Rachel, of Glover, and her daughter-in-law Rose Harper of Barton. She also leaves her grandchildren: Jeffrey Harper and his wife, Amanda of Barton, Deborah Lussier and her husband, Daniel, of Barton, Melissa Doyon and her husband, John, of Venice, Florida, Sean Harper and his wife, Stephanie, of Irasburg, and Alexis Harper of Barton; by her great-grandchildren: Jon Lussier and his wife, Jaime, Nicholas Lussier, Celeste Lussier, Mia Lussier, Emily Grass, Alexander Rainville, Logan Harper, Sydney Harper, and Gauvin Harper; her great-great-granddaughter Ava Lussier; her siblings: Lucy Anderson of Rutland, and Elizabeth Dudley of Newport; her sister-in-law Annette Pike of Newport; and several nieces and nephews.
She was predeceased by her children: Michelle Harper, and Woodrow Harper; and by her brother Woodrow Pike, and her brothers-in-law Richard Dudley and Stuart Anderson.
Should friends desire, contributions in her memory may be made to the Crystal Lake Falls Historical Association, in care of Elizabeth Reddington, P. O. Box 148, Barton, Vermont, 05822, or to the Barton United Church, in care of David Hathaway, P. O. Box 306 Barton, Vermont, 05822.
James “Jim” Hildebrandt
....show , 93, of Topsham died peacefully on Tuesday, June 21, 2016. He was born on March 13, 1923, in Cincinnati, Ohio, the son of Carl A. and Adelaide D. (Avey) Hildebrandt.
He was a graduate of Cincinnati’s Walnut Hills High School, the class of 1941. He attended the University of Cincinnati for 18 months and then served as an aviation cadet for nine months before attending West Point from 1943 through 1946. After flight training he flew in various operational assignments including the Air Rescue Service in Alaska. After completing his master’s degree in aeronautical engineering at Purdue University, he taught aeronautics at the U.S. Naval Academy before spending the rest of his career in research and development for the Air Force. Projects included the F-102, F-106, standard arm missile, SR-71 and B-1A. The capstone of his career was being the original program director for the A-10 attack aircraft in the early 1970s. His 4,000 flight hours were as a pilot in the B-29, B-17, C-47, B-25 and T-33. He retired as a colonel in 1975.
After moving to Westmore, he became active in civic life as town selectman and town meeting moderator until moving to Brunswick, Maine, in 1988. He enjoyed golf, travel, building things, and was active in church life. He was dedicated to his spiritual life, his family, and to the core principles of West Point.
On April 9, 1949, he married Helen Motsinger of Cincinnati who lives in Topsham. They had two children, Karen Mailey and Roger Hildebrandt. Karen is married to Tom Mailey and they have a son Kyle. They live in Gloucester, Massachusetts. Roger is married to Heidi Rutz and they live in Mt. Sterling, Kentucky. Their son Scott Hildebrandt and his wife, Melanie, live in Birmingham, Alabama. Other relatives include Ellen Gribell and Peggy Walker.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to CHANS Home Health Care, 60 Baribeau Drive, Brunswick, Maine, 04011, or Brunswick First Parish Church Music Program, 9 Cleveland Street, Brunswick, Maine, 04011.
A memorial service will be held on Saturday, August 6, at 11 a.m. at Brunswick First Parish Church. A committal service will be held the following Monday, August 8 at 12 p.m., at the Maine Veteran’s Cemetery on Civic Center Drive, Augusta, Maine.
George J. Paquette Jr.
....show , 82, of Barton, died on June 25, 2016, surrounded by his loving family and care-givers at the Maple Lane Nursing Home in Barton.
He was born on May 21, 1934, in Barton. He was the son of George Sr., and Mildred (Hoyt) Paquette. Mr. Paquette served in the United States Army from 1954 through1956, spending 18 months in Germany, and was honorably discharged. He married Yolande St. Onge on May 28, 1956.
He was a member of the American Legion Post #76 in Barton, and a member of the Newport Elks Lodge #2155. He worked for the Department of Motor Vehicles for 26 years and became the director of field services.
He loved deer hunting, fishing, reading (especially newspapers), working in his vegetable garden, and riding on his Kabota tractor. Mr. Paquette is survived by his wife, Yolande; their three daughters and their children: Carol Paquette of Montpelier, Carmen Billings and her husband, Roland, of Morrisville, and Cheryl Lafleur and her husband, Wayne, of Barton; by six grandchildren: Jordan and Jasmin Billings, Mitchel Pion, Isabelle Banse, and Colby and Amelia Lafleur; by one great-grandchild, Zoe Warner; one sister, Marie Letourneau of Barton; two sisters-in-law: Garde Paquette of Barton, and Rita St. Onge, Enosburg Falls; one brother-in-law, George St.Onge, and his wife, Line, of Quebec; and by many nieces and nephews.
He was predeceased by his parents; two brothers, Carl and Howard Paquette; and by two sisters and their husbands: Margaret Bartlett and her husband, Dale, and Theresa Ingersoll and her husband, Arthur.
Memorial contributions may be made in Mr. Paquette’s memory to the: Mary Wright Halo Foundation, (for families of cancer victims) 1073 Upper Quarry Road, Newport, Vermont, 05855.
Blanche Dimick Pierce
....show , longtime resident of Morrisville, died at the Greensboro Nursing Home at the age of 102 on July 10, 2016. Mrs. Pierce was born February 28, 1914, in East Hardwick, the daughter of Harry and Cora (Felix) Dimick. She attended schools in East Hardwick and graduated from Hardwick Academy in 1933.
On February 6, 1934, she married Raymond Pierce Sr. of Lyndonville. They lived in Fairfield Station for seven years, and in 1941 moved to Montpelier. Then in 1942 they moved to Morrisville, where Mr. Pierce was station agent for the St. J&LC Railroad.
Mrs. Pierce worked at the Copley Hospital, then she cooked at the Morrisville graded school for a few years. She worked at Paine’s Restaurant for George Paine, her former schoolmate, for years, then finally worked at Houle’s Restaurant.
She was a member of the VFW Auxiliary, the Eastern Star, and the American Legion Women’s Auxiliary. Survivors include her sons Maurice Pierce and his wife, Carlene, of Albany and West Palm Beach, Florida, Frederick Pierce of Morrisville, and Raymond Pierce and his wife, Janet, of Pittsford and Fort Pierce, Florida; grandchildren Ronda LeBlanc and her husband, Norman, of Orleans, Randy Pierce and his wife, Robin, of Rock Hill, South Carolina, and Raymond Pierce and his wife, Linda, of Port St. Lucie, Florida, Pamela Pierce and her husband, David, of Morrisville, and Charles Pierce and his wife, Heather, of Morrisville. She also leaves behind eight great-grandchildren: Travis and Amber LeBlanc, Richmond and Reannah Pierce, Olivia, Paige, Nicholas Pierce, and Jamison Early; plus several nieces and nephews; and one great-great-grandson, Hudson LeBlanc of Newport Center.
She was predeceased by her husband in 1971; by her parents; by brothers Burton and Robert; her sister Mabel; and her daughter-in-law, Frances (Peggy) Pierce; and her granddaughter, Paula Pierce.
There will be no visiting hours. There will be a graveside service at the Lyndon Center Cemetery at the convenience of the family. Should friends desire, contributions in her memory may be made to the VFW Women’s Auxiliary, or Meals on Wheels in Morrisville.
Gordon Marshall Richardson
....show of Kennett Square, Pennsylvania, and formerly of Greensboro, died peacefully after a short illness on Saturday, July 2, 2016, at Neighborhood Hospice in West Chester, Pennsylvania. He was 86 years old.
Born in Hardwick on June 27, 1930, Mr. Richardson was the son of the late Robert Richardson and the late Mary Marshall Richardson. He graduated from Greensboro High School and attended the University of Vermont. Mr. Richardson was employed by the Ralston Purina Company and was a licensed realtor. He specialized in, and later retired
from, selling land rights-of-way for various public utility companies. Mr. Richardson was the third generation to reside on the Robert Richardson farm in Greensboro. He especially enjoyed harvesting wood, tending the fields and driving the farm tractor during the spring and summertime. The farm, was where he could relax and enjoy the natural beauty of its landscape. He especially loved the side hill, the waterfall and Mt. Sara locations on the property.
He was a proud 60-year member of the Freemason Meridian Sun Lodge #20 F&AM in Craftsbury. He was the beloved husband for 65 years of Patricia Vigneault Richardson; father of Donald and his wife, Antoinette, John and his wife, Cecelia, Robert and his wife, Marta, Shari and her husband, Robert, and Thomas and his wife, Barbara; brother of the late Kathleen Richardson Messier; grandfather of eight; great-grandfather of four; and uncle of Robin, Patrick, the late Thomas, and the late Peter Messier.
Mr. Richardson’s memorial service will be at 7 p.m. on Thursday, July 28, at the Longwood Funeral Home of Matthew Genereux, 913 East Baltimore Pike, Kennett Square, Pennsylvania. Visitation with the family will be at the funeral home from 6 p.m. until 7 p.m. Burial in East Craftsbury will be private.
Memorial donations would be appreciated in Mr. Richardson’s memory to: Neighborhood Hospice, 795 East Marshall Street, Kennett Square, Pennsylvania, 19382.
Raymond Morris Sheltra
....show , 93, of Westfield, died on June 24, 2016. Mr. Sheltra was born July 28, 1922, in Westfield. He was predeceased by his father, Forrest, and mother, Bertha Verge; by his wife, Alice Roy Sheltra, and by their sons Robert and Craig.
Mr. Sheltra worked in Lowell, Massachusetts, and, in 1943, returned to Vermont to work at the Bobbin Mill in Westfield. Mr. Sheltra also owned and operated a milk route and worked at the Kraft cheese factory in Troy. He was then employed as a machinist by Carpenter and Marsh Tap and Die shop in Newport, until his retirement.
Mr. Sheltra is survived by his sister, Delpha Coulter, of Westfield; and by grandsons Robin and Todd Sheltra, of Pulaski, New York.
“Ray” as everyone called him, was an avid outdoorsman and was known as one of the best houndsmen in the state of Vermont. Mr. Sheltra owned many coon, bear and rabbit hounds over the years. He was known also for his knowledge of firearms, and was an excellent marksman.
A graveside service is planned for July 18, at 11 a.m., at the North Hill Cemetery on North Hill Road, in Westfield, with the Rev. David Dizazzo officiating.
Patracia Alice (Sheltra) Thompson
....show , 77, died peacefully on July 4, 2016, with family by her side. She was born on October 25, 1938, to Philip Sheltra and Tharon (Spiller) Sheltra in Lowell.
She is survived by her children: Ramona and Tom Letourneau, William Jr., Della Racine, Philip and Bonnie Thompson, Bernard Thompson, and Connie Prior; by 18 grandchildren; 32 great-grandchildren; seven siblings, and several aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews and friends.
Mrs. Thompson is predeceased by both parents; her brother Glen; her husband, William Thompson; longtime companion Jean-Guy Rodriguez; a daughter Tina; and a great-grandson Chase.
Her love of her grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and bingo was known to all who knew her. She was a lifetime member of both American Legion Post #30 and Veterans of Foreign Wars Post #793.
Calling hours will be on Thursday, July 14, from 6 to 8 p.m. at Sayles Funeral Home in St. Johnsbury. Graveside services will be on Saturday, July 16, at 10 a.m. at Mt. Pleasant Cemetery in St. Johnsbury. There will be a luncheon at the VFW on Eastern Avenue in St. Johnsbury at 11:30 a.m.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be directed to Caledonia Home Health, Attention: Hospice Program, 161 Sherman Drive, St. Johnsbury, Vermont 05819.
Paul H. Audet
....show , 74, died June 23, 2016, at Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston. He was born in Concord, New Hampshire, the son of the late Paul J. and Jean (Pellitier) Audet.
Mr. Audet was owner and operator of Paul’s Quick Lunch in Concord for many years. He worked at Southern New Hampshire University for 17 years as a cook, and most recently worked eight years for Pine Bough making furniture deliveries.
Mr. Audet was a member of the Knights of Columbus. He was an avid motorcycle rider and bird lover. He is most known for his kind, caring and jovial manner, playing the role of Santa Claus in the Concord area for many years. He volunteered at Concord Hospital, passing out candy canes and Beanie Babies to children. He was the official Santa Claus for the Deerfield Fire Department, where he was the highlight of the annual Christmas parade.
He is survived by his wife, Jacqueline (Lafoe) Audet; two sons: Christopher Audet and his wife, Jeannine, and Matthew Audet and his wife, Sarah; two grandchildren: Ava and Wiloe Audet; two sisters: Pauline Michaud and Germaine Hammond; one brother, Dennis Audet; as well as many cousins, nieces and nephews.
He was predeceased by a sister, Terry Hall. Burial was held July 1 at Blossom Hill Cemetery in Concord. Donations may be made to the charity of one’s choice in Mr. Audet’s memory.
Mildred O. Boucher
....show , 88, of Irasburg, died on June 27, 2016, in Newport. She was born on August 14, 1927, in Brownington, to Isadore and Sarah (Beaulieu) Duff. On October 27, 1945, she married Roger A. Boucher, who predeceased her.
During her lifetime she was an assembler for Centronic Electronics in Hudson, New Hampshire. Among her hobbies she enjoyed crocheting, reading, making puzzles and listening to books on tape.
She is survived by her daughter Joanne Gagnon and her husband, Roger, of Irasburg; by her grandsons: Douglas and William Gagnon; and by her great-grandchildren: Desiree, Elizabeth, Alexis, and Samantha. She is also survived by her brother Normand Duff and his wife, Lucy, of Angier, North Carolina; and by several nieces and nephews.
She was predeceased by her sister Gloria, and by her longtime friend of 70 years Carmelle Provencher. Services will be in Nashua, New Hampshire, at a later date, at the convenience of the family.
David Charles Broe Jr
....show , 58, of West Charleston, died on June 29, 2016, at his home. He was born on March 31, 1958, in Newport to David Charles Broe Sr. (deceased) and Pauline (Holmes) Broe.
Mr. Broe graduated from West Charleston Elementary School and North Country Union High School where he was president of the FFA. He married Paula Vandiver, who survives him.
He is also survived by his daughter Erin Broe Swafford and her husband, Cory, of Waterbury; by his brother John Broe, and his wife, Pauline, of West Charleston; by his sister Rosemary Goodridge and her husband, Kevin, of Albany; and by his nieces and nephews: Shannon Freehart, Shane Wiggett, Sarah Hardin, Samson Wiggett, John Broe Jr., Jeremy Broe, and Justin Broe.
Mr. Broe worked for over 20 years at Columbia Forest Products and was most recently employed at Austin’s Rubbish. He enjoyed playing and watching football, playing softball with his brother and nephews, playing chess, and working on his woodpile. Mr. Broe also loved all of his animals: Thor, Tiny, Bella, Cujo, Nylah, P-2, Psycho, Misty Bleu, Pepper, and Sunshine.
A graveside service will be held at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, July 6, at the West Charleston Cemetery, with the Reverend Daniel Prue officiating. Should friends desire, contributions in his memory may be made to the Norris Cotton Cancer Center Fund, North, 1080 Hospital Drive, St. Johnsbury, Vermont 05819.
John VanOstrand Jr.
....show died on March 13, 2016. He received end of life care from the University of Vermont Medical Center after battling an aggressive cancer for more than a year.
He was born on August 31, 1943. Mr. VanOstrand was a caring, hard working, and skilled person. He loved the outdoors and his family. He is survived, loved, and missed by his wife, Denise VanOstrand, and his stepdaughter Margaret Jordan. Private services were held.
Ruth Taylor Clapper
....show , 96, of East Charleston, died on May 30, 2016, at her family’s longtime cottage on Echo Lake in her beloved state of Vermont. She was surrounded by the love of her two daughters, as was her wish.
She was born on August 17, 1919, in North Fork, Nebraska, to J.D. Taylor and Edna (Gibson) Taylor. Mrs. Clapper spent her early life on the Rosebud Indian Reservation in South Dakota — on horseback, of course.
Her school years were spent in Bellows Falls, where she was embraced by a large, caring, extended family. She excelled in sports, music, and academics.
Her father was against his daughter going to college, so Miss Ruth Taylor attended business school. Meanwhile an irate sister confronted Mr. Taylor, insisting that he send her to Middlebury College. As a result, Miss Taylor and her three siblings graduated from college.
When she graduated from Middlebury College, with a bachelor of arts degree, she began teaching. In Oklahoma, on February 28, 1942, she married her college sweetheart, Charles Myron Clapper, of Newport. Mr. Clapper died in 2000 after 58 years of marriage.
After World War II, which changed many things, she said, the family moved to Woodstown, New Jersey. When her daughters were in school, Mrs. Clapper began her 21 years of teaching French at Woodstown High School.
In addition to teaching, she was a longtime Girl Scout leader and was an extremely active member of the Asbury Methodist Church of Woodstown. For many years, Mrs. Clapper was a volunteer driver for Meals on Wheels and was a driving force for the American Field Service Foreign exchange student organization.
Mrs. Clapper loved playing cards and belonged to several bridge clubs. She enjoyed learning new information, reading, doing crossword puzzles, and gardening.
Mr. and Mrs. Clapper played golf, bowled, traveled, and were diehard Flyers and Bruins fans, and Patriot football fans. They both were formidable defenders and knowledgeable “referees.”
This knowledge transferred over to five grandchildren and ten great-grandchildren’s sports events and community activities. In fact, if a car was going anywhere, Mrs. Clapper was in it.
Mrs. Clapper is survived by her two daughters: Bonnie Hopkins of East Charleston, and Becky Spear of Fairbanks, Alaska; her five grandchildren: John Hopkins Jr. of Augusta, Georgia, Derek D. Hopkins of Deerfield, New Hampshire, Scott C. Hopkins of Indianapolis, Indiana, Tarik William Spear of Fairbanks, Alaska, and Darrah Lea Fitzpatrick of Fairbanks. She is also survived by numerous great-grandchildren; three great-great-grandchildren; her sister Leila Taylor Baggett of Keystone Heights, Florida; and her sister-in-law Kjellrum Taylor of Litchfield Park, Arizona.
She was predeceased by her sister Phyllis Taylor, and her brother, Lieutenant Colonel David D. Taylor, who was 92 years old. Rest in peace Bema and Gram. Services will be held at the convenience of the family.
Memorial donations should be sent to the Island Pond Health Center, P.O Box 425, Island Pond, Vermont 05846, where several family members received excellent and convenient healthcare for seven decades.
Patricia M. Driscoll
....show , 91, of Island Pond, formerly of Warwick, New York, died on June 23, 2016, at her home in Island Pond. She was born October 7, 1924, in the Bronx, New York, a daughter of Edmund C. Farrell and Mae (Brodbeck) Farrell.
She graduated from Cathedral High School in New York, New York, in 1941. She was a veteran of World War II, having been honorably discharged from the United States Marine Corps in 1946.
In 1948 she married John T. Driscoll. She donated time and energy to numerous activities. She was a member of the American Legion Post #214 of Warwick, New York. She was an active member of St. Stephens Catholic Church in Warwick as a member of the choir and Catholic daughters of America chapter.
Mrs. Driscoll enjoyed planting flower gardens and feeding the birds. She is survived by the following children: Thomas Driscoll and his wife, Stephanie, of Cherry Valley, New York, Walter Driscoll and his wife, Marcia, of Island Pond, Kathleen Garulli and her husband, Mike, of Goshen, New York, Brian Driscoll and his wife, Jeannette, of Little Rock, Arkansas, Daniel Driscoll and his friend, Michelle, of Shohola, Pennsylvania, Donna Egan of Shohola, Terence Driscoll of Island Pond, and John Driscoll Jr. and his wife, Izzy, of Denver, Colorado; by 13 grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; three sisters; and several nieces and nephews.
Services will be held in New York at the convenience of the family. Should friends desire, contributions in her memory may be made to the Island Pond Health Center, 82 Maple Street, Island Pond, Vermont 05846.
Jack Frederick Healey
....show of Woodstock, Virginia, died on June 16, 2016, after several years of battling Lewy body dementia, with his loving family at his side.
He was born in Irasburg on December 3, 1937, the only child of Clyde and Pauline Healey. He graduated from Orleans High School in 1955 and the University of Vermont in 1960.
After college, Mr. Healey joined the Army for three years, and then began his career with the United States Army Intelligence and Security Command at Arlington Hall Station and Fort Belvoir. He worked there for 30 years, and retired in 1993 as the deputy director.
Mr. Healey will always be remembered for his loyalty and love for his family, his irresistible smile, and personality that drew people to him. He was humble and kind and often the life of the party.
He was an experienced traveler both during his working years and after his retirement in 1993. He traveled to many places in the United States and around the world.
Mr. Healey will always be known for his love of the Washington Redskins and Nationals. His many hobbies included woodworking, landscaping, cooking, and crossword puzzles. He was literally a “Jack of all trades.”
He is survived by his loving wife of 53 years, Grace Healey, of Woodstock; his son Sean Healey and his wife, Leah, of Ellicott City, Maryland; his daughter Debbie Bevins and her companion, Scott Snelgrove, of Westfield; his grandchildren: Ian Healey, Megan Healey, Colin Healey, Hannah Bevins, and Charlie Bevins; his brother-in-law Charles Stevens; sister-in-law Cathy of Rock Hill, South Carolina; a niece; nephew; several cousins; and his little dog, Buddy.
Mr. Healey was predeceased by his parents, Clyde and Pauline Healey, and his aunt Doris Vance. A memorial service for Mr. Healey was held on June 21 in Virginia. A graveside service will be held at a later date in Irasburg.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Lewy Body Dementia Association at lbda.org, or at 912 Killian Hill Road, Southwest, Lilburn, Georgia 30047, or the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation at jdrf.org, or 26 Broadway, Fourteenth floor, New York, New York 10004.
Family and friends can sign the Stover Funeral Home and Crematory, Inc..
Marjorie Miller
....show , 86, of Morrisville, died at her home on June 8, 2016, surrounded by her loving family and dear friends Joann Prescott and Judy Stancliff.
She was born October 21, 1929, in Westbrook Valley, New Jersey, a daughter of Warren A. and Marjorie Ellen Bowen Stephens. She married Mac Miller on April 12, 1952, in Upper Montclair, New Jersey.
Mrs. Miller is survived by her husband, Mac; their children: Patrice Ladd and Loren, Mac Jr. and Linda, Frank, and Warren and Kathy; by her grandchildren: Shannon, Erik and Wendy, Kelly, Kyle and Melinda; by her great-grandchildren: Terrance, Landon, and Brooklynn; a sister, Anna (Elson) Hust; and many nieces and nephews and friends.
Mrs. Miller was always taking care of people, and loved to babysit for any babies that were born to family and friends. She loved to travel, cook, and watch the wildlife and birds on her hill.
She was a member of Morristown Rescue for many years and worked at Copley Hospital for 35 years. A memorial service was held Tuesday, June 21, at the First Congregational Church in Morrisville. A reception followed at the church.
Online condolences may be made by visiting faithfh.net. In lieu of flowers, contributions in Mrs. Miller’s name may be made to the Lamoille Area Cancer Network, 198 Farr Avenue, Morrisville, Vermont 05661.
Stephen Barrett Tanner
....show died peacefully on June 20, 2016, in St. Johnsbury. He was born on November 4, 1922, in Cambridge, Massachusetts, to parents William Maddox Tanner and Daisy Barrett Tanner, both from Texas.
While he was a student at Yale University, majoring in German literature, he was drafted into the U.S. Army in March of 1943. He served in the Army Signal Intelligence Corps and participated in the Italian campaign of World War II. His fluency in both German and Italian were instrumental in decoding and translating radio transmissions intercepted by his unit from German forces.
At the end of the war he hunted for, arrested, and interrogated German officers and Nazi collaborators. He then returned to Yale to complete his degree and, while there, he taught two courses in Italian. Upon graduation, he was recruited by, and joined, the CIA. He was an able and successful Cold War warrior, focusing his many talents on gaining intelligence about the Soviet Union. When living overseas his cover was the U.S. Department of State, which meant that he had to do two jobs at the same time, the regular work of a Foreign Service employee plus his job for the CIA.
After retiring from the government, he worked as a consultant for various American and European companies doing business abroad. He also briefly became a professional tennis teacher and wrote and published several books of humor.
The time he spent as a high school student at the Putney School in Putney was a very important, formative time of his life. His love for the school and devotion to fund-raising never wavered throughout his adult life. He also attended the Middlebury College Summer Language School, where he met a student whose family owned a summer place on the shores of Willoughby Lake in Westmore — it was love at first sight!
On June 7, 1947, he and Anne Wallis Swift were married in Princeton, New Jersey. In later life his favorite sport was tennis, but as a young man it was figure skating. He was a member of both the Cambridge and Boston skating clubs, and in 1940 he won the U.S. Junior Pairs Championship with skating partner Dorothy Glazier.
His favorite hobby was opera, particularly Italian opera, and he took singing lessons whenever he could. In his retirement years he became an avid impresario and was always organizing concerts, soirees, and other entertainments. He frequently used those events to raise money for various local causes — to help buy the North Beach of Willoughby Lake for the town of Westmore; to refurbish the kitchen of the Westmore Community Church Friendship Hall after it was damaged by fire; to establish the Neighbor Helping Neighbor Fund; to provide scholarships for local children, and more. He felt that raising money to help others was his most important activity in his later years.
He is survived by his wife, Anne (Nancy) Tanner; his son Bruce Tanner; his daughter Kersten Tanner; his grandson William Tanner; and his granddaughter Kelly Tanner.
A memorial service, followed by interment of his ashes in the Lake View Cemetery in Westmore will begin at 2 p.m on Wednesday, July 27, at the Westmore Community Church, Westmore. Instead of flowers, a donation may be made in his memory to the Westmore Community Church, or the Putney School, in Putney.
Moses Wilbur Allen
....show , 87, of Island Pond died on June 16, 2016, in Newport. He was born on October 13, 1928, in West Charleston. He was the son of Daniel and Susan (Gilfillan) Allen.
Mr. Allen was a Marine Corps veteran of the Korean War. He married Dorothy (Brooks) Allen on November 22, 1949. He was a member of the Lions Club, American Legion Post #80, the fire department, and president of the snowmobile club, all of Island Pond.
He sold insurance for the Modern Woodmen Insurance Company for 38 years. He loved to go hunting, fishing and camping. He always loved to be outdoors.
He is survived by his wife, Dorothy Allen, of Island Pond; by two sons: Robert Allen of Island Pond and Steven Allen and his wife, Connie, of Merrimack, New Hampshire; by 11 grandchildren; 18 great-grandchildren; and two great-great-grandsons.
He was predeceased by his son Ronald Allen, his brother Sherman Allen, and his sister Louray Roy. Funeral services were held on June 21. Burial followed at the Hillside Cemetery in East Charleston.
Memorial contributions may be made in Mr. Allen’s name to a charity of one’s choice.
Bruce David Boutin
....show , 78, of Burlington died on June 9, 2016, in Burlington. He was born on June 15, 1937, in Bloomfield, to Flavia and Ethel (Moody) Boutin.
He attended St. Mary’s Catholic School in Island Pond and served in the United States Army during the Korean War from 1956 to1961.
In 1963 he married Barbara Sylvester, who predeceased him. Mr. Boutin was employed as a logger for over 30 years. He was, at one time, employed by the town of Brighton. He also worked for L&M Trucking in Nashua, New Hampshire, and at his father’s paving business.
His hobbies included planting and working in his vegetable gardening, doing puzzles, and he was a skilled hunter and trapper. He was a past member of the Teamsters Union in Bangor, Maine.
He is survived by his son Bruce David Jenkins of Fairbanks, Alaska; by his brother Donald Boutin and his sister Pamela Nordquist; by two grandchildren: Jacob and Nicholas Jenkins; and by his niece and nephew Laurel and Ed Pierpont.
Services will be held on September 26. Should friends desire, contributions in his memory may be made to the Pope Memorial Frontier Animal Shelter, 502 Strawberry Acres, Newport, Vermont 05855.
Joyce E. Cross
....show , 83, of East Haven, died peacefully on June 15, 2016, at her home. She was born on December 3, 1932, in Brighton, to Claude and Blanche (Stevens) Maxwell.
She graduated from Brighton High School in 1951. On June 22, 1951, she married Wyman Alfred Cross, who predeceased her on January 24, 2002.
Mrs. Cross was a very caring and giving person. She loved music and playing her piano. She enjoyed walks and visits with family at camps at Lake Seymour every year. Her family all loved her dearly — she will be missed so much, by all. She was the bookkeeper for years for her husband’s business. She always took care of the neighbors’ children and everyone loved her.
Mrs. Cross was a member of the Vermont Association of Blind and Visually Impaired and she was also a member of the consumer advocacy board.
She is survived by her children: Claudia Giguere and her husband, Michael, of Newark, Cynthia Shook and her husband, Charles, of Yalesville, Connecticut, Veronica Olcott and her husband, Gary, of East St. Johnsbury, David Cross and his wife, Patricia, of Lyndonville, Joyce Ashman and her husband, Larry, of Morgan, and Meloday Austin and her companion, Rock Ovitt, of Island Pond; by 12 grandchildren; 16 great-grandchildren; by her brothers: Blaine Maxwell of Island Pond, Dwight Maxwell and his wife, Carole, of Island Pond, Robert Maxwell and his wife, Charlene, of Island Pond, Douglas Maxwell and his wife, Marilyn, of Island Pond; and by her sister June Bingham of East Charleston. She is also survived by her mother-in-law, Evelyn Cross; and by her brother-in-law Alfred Cross and his wife, Carol, all of Newark.
She was predeceased by her son William Cross; her granddaughter Michelle Olcott; by her sister-in-law Barbara Maxwell; by her brother-in-law Ralph Bingham; her great-grandson Bently Layne Giguere; and a special companion Frank Zeigler.
Funeral services were held on June 20 in Island Pond. Interment followed in Woodmont Cemetery in East Burke. Should friends desire, contributions in her memory may be made to the Vermont Association for the Blind and Visually Impaired, 37 Elmwood Avenue, Burlington, Vermont 05401.
“The object of life’s journey is not to arrive at the grave safely in a well preserved body, but rather to skid in sideways, totally worn out, shouting, ‘Holy shit, what a ride!!!'” — Mavis Leyrer
And what a ride she had.
Susan Field
....show , 64, of Craftsbury Common died on June 8, 2016. In life she did things her way. She was irreverent, funny, smart, loyal, eccentric, generous, and had a moral compass that would rival that of any do-gooders amongst us. Ms. Field’s reservoir of gifts ran deep and wide. She was a talented quilter, great horse lady, an exquisite storyteller, marvelous writer, avid reader, loyal friend, and a heck of a Scrabble player.
It was best not to enter a battle of wits with her if you were unprepared. In some circles she was legendary and remained the undefeated leg wrestling champion in the Northeast Kingdom (unofficial and impromptu rounds played out on a barroom floor). Ms. Field loved every student who passed through her classroom. Viola Swamp is sure to live on in the hearts and minds of many third-graders. Ms. Field liked to be thought of as “old flinty heart,” but those of us who knew her best, knew it was a ruse.
She is survived by her daughter Lori Schneider, and her favorite, albeit only, son-in-law Tony Schneider; by her grandchildren Olivia and Anthony Schneider; by her siblings Nancy Richardson, Doug Field and Marilyn, and Bill Field and Cathy; by her niece Sara Ackermann and Jimmy; by her nephews Sterling Richardson and Kelly, Ben Field and Josie, and Aaron Field. She left behind some incredibly close friends and many acquaintances from all walks of life, as well as an adversary or two. In addition to these people, her best friend, Maya, the beautiful buckskin mare that nobody else wanted, has to adjust to life without her.
As her daughter she was my rock, my sounding board, my safe landing, and my go-to person when I needed a reality check. I can hardly speak about the connection she and Olivia shared without my heart breaking for my daughter who has lost her biggest cheerleader. Although he may not recognize it yet, Anthony Schneider is more like his Gran than he realizes. What a lucky young man.
A departure party will be held at her house on August 6. This will be a time for those whose lives were touched by her to come together to tell tall tales about her, laugh, cry and make merry.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to P.E.T.S. of the Kingdom at P.O. Box 111, Derby, Vermont 05829 or Horses Home Again at 4458 Stowe Hollow Road, Stowe, Vermont 05672.
May every day be a good riding day for you now, Granny Sue.
When I am an old horsewoman
I shall wear turquoise and diamonds,
And a straw hat that doesn’t suit me
And I shall spend my Social Security on
White wine and carrots,
And sit in my alleyway of my barn
And listen to my horses breathe.
I will sneak out in the middle of a summer night
And ride the old bay gelding,
Across the moonstruck meadow
If my old bones will allow
And when people come to call, I will smile and nod
As I walk past the gardens to the barn
And show instead the flowers growing
Inside stalls fresh-lined with straw.
I will shovel and sweat and wear hay in my hair
As if it were a jewel
And I will be an embarrassment to ALL
Who will not yet have found the peace in being free
To have a horse as a best friend
A friend who waits at midnight hour
With muzzle and nicker and patient eyes
For the kind of woman I will be
When I am old.” — by Patty Barnhart
Jean-Pierre A. Maclure
....show , 74, of Newport died peacefully, surrounded by his family, on June 13, 2016, in Newport. He was born on October 24, 1941, in Sherbrooke, Quebec, to Wilbridge and Angeline Maclure.
On June 24, 1961, he married Solange Houle, who predeceased him on May 5, 2016. Mr. Maclure was a clerk for the Red and White Grocery Store in Stanstead, Quebec. He had also been previously employed by Kerr Auto Sales, Frawley Chevrolet, and Newport Auto Body. He was a night watchman for North Country Union High School from 1999 to 2008.
Mr. Maclure enjoyed camping, playing horseshoes, playing solitaire, and putting together jigsaw puzzles. He also very much enjoyed spending time with his family and friends — he loved family gatherings, especially on Christmas Eve.
He is survived by his children: Roger Maclure of Newport, Andre Maclure of Newport, Marcel Maclure and his wife, Mary, of Coventry, Francine Maclure of Derby, and Sylvie Mathieu and her husband, Philip Sr., of Coventry. He is also survived by his grandchildren: Philip Mathieu Jr. and his wife, Brittany, Nathan Mathieu, Brandon Maclure, Nicholas Maclure, Jonathan Maclure and his wife, Tia, and Kaylee Maclure; as well as his great-grandchildren: Evan Mathieu, Levi Mathieu, and Alexander Maclure. He is also survived by his siblings: Henri-Louis Maclure of Montreal, Quebec, Clemence Davis of Sherbrooke, Quebec, Jacqueline Maclure of Montreal, and Dennis Laviolette and his wife, Bev; and by his sisters-in-law: Marie-Laure Duquette of Stanstead, Quebec, Sue Bridges, Pauline Cota, and her husband, Gary; and by several nieces and nephews.
He was predeceased by his infant son Raymond Maclure; by Irene and Anatole Houle; and by his siblings: Julien Maclure, Joseph Maclure, Lucien Maclure, Roland Maclure, Paul Maclure, and Cecile Laviolette.
A graveside service will be held at 2 p.m. on Wednesday, June 22, at St. Mary’s Cemetery in Newport, with the Reverend Charles Davignon officiating.
Should friends desire, contributions in his memory may be made to the Mary Wright Halo Foundation, 1073 Upper Quarry Road, Newport, Vermont 05855.
Edwin G. Newton
....show , 67, of Newport, died unexpectedly on Thursday, June 16, 2016, in Lebanon, New Hampshire. Mr. Newton was born on May 17, 1949, in Newport, to Clifton and Madeline (Hill) Newton.
On April 5, 1975, Mr. Newton married the love of his life, Nancy Lawson, who survives him. Mr. Newton attended Newport High School and then enlisted in the United States Army. He served as a sergeant in the Army Corps of Engineers, hauling heavy equipment, and was stationed in Germany before being transferred to Vietnam. He was honorably discharged in 1971 and returned to Newport. He was raised to the sublime degree of a Master Mason in Memphremagog Lodge #65 Free and Accepted Masons on February 26, 1972.
He was a truck driver for Blue Flame Gas for 24 years. Prior to that job, he worked for Calkins Redimix for 21 years. He was an active member of the city of Newport Fire Department, and of Memphremagog Lodge #65 Free and Accepted Masons for 44 years. He loved antique trucks and tractors.
He is survived by his wife, Nancy Newton, of Newport; his children: Chuck Newton and his fiancée, Stacy Harkabus, of Derby; and Amy Newton of Newport. He is also survived by his sister Beverly Newton of Plymouth, New Hampshire; and innumerable friends.
Friends may call from 4 to 7 p.m. on Thursday, June 23, at the Curtis-Britch-Converse-Rushford Funeral Home at 4670 Darling Hill Road in Newport.
Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. on Friday, June 24, at the United Church of Newport, 63 Third Street, with James Merriam and Janet Wiseman officiating. A Masonic service will also be held at that time.
Interment will follow at the Coventry Cemetery on Coventry Station Road with full military honors. Donations in Mr. Newton’s memory can be made to the United Church of Newport and to Memphremagog Lodge #65 Free and Accepted Masons, care of Colin Brock, 1 Sloan Street, Newport, Vermont, 05855.
Wilfred A. Paquette
....show , 95, died peacefully on June 15, 2016. He was born on the family farm in Craftsbury on December 1, 1920, and died in the same house, surrounded by his family.
He was the son of the late Adelard and Marie (Demers) Paquette. Mr. Paquette purchased the farm from his father and ran a very progressive dairy and poultry operation. His was the largest chicken farm in the state of Vermont at one time.
As a young man, Mr. Paquette had many hobbies. He had a passion for flying, obtained his pilot’s license, and became part owner of an airplane. He loved to ski, was one of the earliest skiers on Mt. Mansfield, and stayed in local farmhouses along the mountain road. He loved people and talking, but most of all he loved his family.
He leaves behind his children: Carole Paquette Myjak, her husband, Bill, and their children Courtney and Mitchell of San Jose California; Lucie Paquette, her husband, David Ugalde, and their daughter Regan of Colchester; Maurice Paquette, his wife, Karen, and their children Rochelle and Maurice II of Burlington; and Marc Paquette, his wife, Penny, and their children Joshua and Caleb of Craftsbury. He also leaves behind the mother of his children, Huguette Paquette; his brother Lucien of Middlebury; and his sister Hilda Thayer of Burlington.
He was predeceased by brothers: Leonel and Ernest; and his sisters: Nelda Russ and Leda Lodi. Visiting hours will be from 5 to 8 p.m. on Wednesday, June 29, at the Curtis-Britch and Davis Funeral Home in Craftsbury Common.
A funeral Mass will be celebrated at 1 p.m. at Our Lady of Fatima Catholic Church in Craftsbury on June 30. Burial will be in the Craftsbury Village Cemetery, next to his parents.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Vermont Catholic Charities at vermontcatholic.org or at 55 Joy Drive South, Burlington, Vermont 05403.
Arleene Barbara Avery
....show , 92, formerly of Newport Center, died on Saturday, June 11, 2016, at Bel-Aire Center, Newport. She was born on September 3, 1923, in New York, New York, to William and Emma (Roth) Henn.
Ms. Avery graduated from Evander Childs High School in the Bronx, New York. Following graduation she went to work for New York Life Insurance Company in New York City.
She married James Avery on August 31, 1945 in New York. They lived in Mount Kisco, New York, for 36 years. Ms. Avery worked for a local bank and then local attorneys in Mount Kisco. In 1967 she went to work at IBM Headquarters in Armonk, New York, as an executive secretary.
Upon retirement in 1982, she and Mr. Avery moved to Marco Island, Florida. In 1998, they moved to Newport Center. She enjoyed playing bridge, knitting and golf.
She is survived by her daughter Barbara Buchanan and her husband, Craig, of Derby. She was predeceased by her husband, James Avery, in 2012; and by her sister Muriel Dreher and her husband, Frank, of Tucson, Arizona.
Contributions in her memory may be made to Orleans Essex Visiting Nurses Association and Hospice, Inc., 46 Lakemont Road, Newport, Vermont 05855.
Wilma M. (Mason) Devost
....show , 88, of Derby died peacefully on June 9, 2016, in Newport. She was born on April 28, 1928, in Newport to William and Ida (Davio) Wheeler.
On March 28, 1946, she married Preston Mason, who predeceased her on October 22, 1992. In February 2000, she married Roland Devost of Colebrook, New Hampshire, who survives her.
Ms. Devost worked with her late husband, Mr. Mason, at their Sunoco service station in Orleans. She also worked as a waitress at the Candlepin Restaurant in Barton.
She held memberships with the Community Circle, Home Dem, and the Christmas Club. Her hobbies included dancing, attending Elk’s functions, bowling, bocce, and traveling.
She is survived by her husband, Roland Devost, of Colebrook, New Hampshire; by her children: Leon Mason and his wife, Marcia, of Lowell, and Diane Parenteau and her husband, Paul, of Westmore; by her grandchildren: Krystal Curran and her husband, Anthony, of Johnson, Joshua Mason of Coventry, Cindy Willis and her husband, Todd, of Derby, Paul Parenteau Jr. and his wife, Grace, of Peru, New York, Charlie Parenteau and his wife, Linda, of Wesley Chapel, Florida, Raymond Parenteau and his wife, Linda, of Derby, Linda Griswold and her husband, Randy, of Lexington, South Carolina, Scott Parenteau of Murphy, North Carolina, and Tina Murray and her husband, Montana, of South Carolina; by 16 great-grandchildren, and one great-great grandson, Owen Patenaude; by her brother Wayne Wheeler of Newport; her sister Lorraine Carter of Maryland; her sisters-in-law: Lillian Wheeler of Massachusetts and Sandra Wheeler of Newport; and by numerous nieces and nephews.
She was predeceased by her siblings: Olive Allen, Irene Haskins, Pete Wheeler, Johnny Wheeler, Irwin Wheeler, Dena Wheeler and by three infant siblings.
A graveside service will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, June 25, at the Lakeview Cemetery in Westmore, with the Reverend John Genco officiating.
Should friends desire, contributions in her memory may be made to the Mary Wright Halo Foundation, 1073 Upper Quarry Road, Newport, Vermont, 05855.
Lionel Fortin
....show , 85, of Holland died on June 8, 2016 in Newport. He was born on October 26, 1930. Mr. Fortin was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather and great-great-grandfather.
He had a farm in Holland for 50 years and was an avid hunter, fisherman and gardener. When he retired from farming, many people met him through the raspberries and blueberries he grew and sold in Holland.
Mr. Fortin supported clubs like Fish & Game, and was a strong supporter of the NRA and the Orleans County Fair. He worked for the Town of Holland as a lister and selectman and for the United Christian Academy. He was a man of great faith and was instrumental in the early stages and growth of the Newport Church of God.
He is survived by his wife of 64 years, Simone; his son Michael and daughter-in law Debbie; his daughter, Lorianne, and son-in-law Fred; his son Armand; by his sister Germaine and her husband, Bill; his brothers: Rene and his wife, May; Raymond and his wife, Sharon; and Robert and his wife, Christine; and by many cousins; nieces; and nephews.
He was predeceased by his parents, Louis and Anna Fortin; three sisters: Rita, Yvonne, and Lucienne; and his brother Lucien. Mr. Fortin had five grandchildren, 11 great-grandchildren and one great-great grandchild.
A celebration of life service was held in Newport on June 11.
Kimberly Ann (MacLean) Green
....show died peacefully in the arms of her three loving daughters in Newport on June 10, 2016, after a courageous three-year battle with cancer.
She was born July 24, 1967, in Lawrence, Massachusetts, and lived most of her life in Derby. Ms. Green got her nursing degree from Vermont Tech and worked for many years as a nurse. She was a nurse at the Union House in Glover before being diagnosed. She spent many years at Maple Lane Nursing Home in Barton, and some time at Derby Green in Derby.
Ms. Green was an exceptional nurse and was known for her precious smile and her incredible sense of humor. She had a natural ability to treat every patient with great kindness.
She had a love for cooking and could bake the best homemade cookies and her signature hot mustard. Ms. Green was very independent and strong-willed. She enjoyed doing home improvement, gardening, and she made strong friendships with her close neighbors including Felicity and Lester Butterfield, Christine Barrup, and Deb Belise. Anyone could fall in love with her strength and humor. She could also light up a whole room with her smile.
She loved her children and caring for her family was most important to her. She enjoyed spending her free time with her children and grandchildren. She will be missed by many.
She is survived by her stepmother, Marcy MacLean, of Inverness, Florida; her sister Tricia Maclean of Coventry; her brother Jonathan Cote of Kingston, New Hampshire; and by her sister Jennifer Frasca of Derry, New Hampshire. She is also survived by her children and grandchildren: Julia Bolton and her son Darion Forbes of Newport; Gabrielle Bolton and her fiancé, Derek Sanville, and their children Collin, Caydence and Connor Sanville of Newport; and Selena, Christopher, and Kaitlyn Green, of Derby; her stepsons: Cedar and Champ Bolton of Newport; and the father of her eldest daughters and very special caretaker, Edwin Bolton, of Newport Center. She had several aunts and uncles. She is also survived by her closest friends, including: Tammy Chipman, Vanessa Raymond, Amy Blacketer, Hope Bowen, Amy Farley, and Shelly Maxwell.
She was predeceased by her parents, Grant and Doris MacLean, and by her brother, Grant MacLean Jr. A celebration of life Mass will be celebrated for Ms. Green at 2 p.m. on Monday, June 20, at St. Mary Star of the Sea Catholic Church in Newport. A family receiving time will begin at 1 p.m.
Per family request, in lieu of flowers, please donate to Kim’s GoFundMe account.
Jessie Ames Hamblett
....show died on June 10, 2016. She was born in Derby on February 14, 1919, to Roy and Alice Vinton Ames. She graduated from Derby Academy in 1937 and from the Orleans County Memorial Hospital school of nursing with an affiliation at Newark City Hospital in Newark, New Jersey, with a registered nurse degree in 1940.
On September 16, 1940, she married Tarlton Hamblett, and for a few years she continued to do some special duty nursing. Mr. Hamblett predeceased her in 1995 after they had shared 55 years of marriage.
During her lifetime she donated time and energy to numerous causes and activities. She was a member of the Parent Teacher Association and was a Cub Scouts den mother. She was a North Country Hospital Auxiliary member and was a long time member of the United Church and the Home Dem Club.
She is survived by her three sons: Timothy Hamblett and his wife, Beverly, Rick Hamblett, and Michael Hamblett and his wife, Jackie. She is also survived by one sister, Joan Carpenter. She also leaves six grandsons: Marcus Hamblett and his wife, Erica, Christopher Hamblett and his wife, Karen, Nathan Hamblett and his wife, Tracy, Gregory Hamblett and his wife, Danielle, Andrew Hamblett and his wife, Sarah, and Jordan Hamblett and his wife, Shannon. She also leaves ten great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.
She was predeceased by her brother Lyndol Ames. At her request, a private celebration of her life and interment will take place at a date and time to be decided by the family.
To those who wish, donations may be made to the Goodrich Memorial Library or the North Country Hospital Auxiliary.
Reginald Clarence McDowell
....show , 96, of Montpelier, died on Friday, November 27, 2015 at his home in Sun City, Arizona, after a short illness. He was born the son of Clarence and Gertrude McDowell, on May 23, 1919, in Evansville, Vermont.
His family moved to Montpelier when he was quite young. He graduated from Montpelier High School in 1937. He was captain of the football team and student council president.
Captain McDowell served in World War II as a P47 fighter pilot with 73 combat missions over Germany. He worked as a self-employed carpenter and a builder for many years. He also worked for the State of Vermont Buildings Division, from which he retired in 1981.
He met the love of his life, Irene (Conklin) McDowell, of Patchogue, New York in 1942. She was in nurse’s training at Heaton Hospital in Montpelier and was caring for Mr. McDowell’s father when they met. They married on August 8, 1943.
Mr. and Mrs. McDowell retired to Englewood, Florida, for many years, later moving to Sun City, Arizona. Mr. McDowell was always very athletic. He taught his three children to water ski and snow ski, and how to play basketball, football, and baseball. He also loved photography and boat building. He built a number of boats, from a hydroplane to runabouts to cabin cruisers. His kids learned to water ski behind one of his first runabouts on Lake Elmore in the 1950s. His last and biggest boat, the “Merry Macs,” was a 26-foot cabin cruiser moored on Lake Champlain in the 1960s. The family spent summers on the boat and explored waterways from Montreal down to Catskill, New York.
He is survived by his wife of 72 years, Irene McDowell, of Sun City, Arizona; by his son Robert McDowell and his wife, Diane, of Peoria, Arizona; by his daughter Nancy McDowell of Woodstock; by his son George McDowell and his wife, Susan, of Barre; by four grandchildren: Jessica (Lamoureux) Montgomery, Phillip Lamoureux, Libby McDowell, and Peter McDowell Hanley; by five great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews. He is also survived by his sister-in-law Ruth (Conklin) Pontieri; and brothers-in-law: Art Conklin and Al Zelinski.He was predeceased by sisters: Frances McGibney-Marcoux and Theda Frost; brothers: Rupert McDowell and Ross McDowell; by sisters-in-law: Katherine (Moore) McDowell and Jean (Conklin) Zelinski; and brothers-in-law: Leo McGibney, Jack Frost, Hector Marcoux, and Jim Pontieri.
Interment will take place at the Plainmont Cemetery in Plainfield on Wednesday, June 22. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests contributions to The Salvation Army.
Douglas Anderson
....show , 58, of Barton, formerly of Island Pond, died at the Maple Lane Nursing Home in Barton on June 1, 2016, after a long illness. He was born on March 26, 1958, in Newport to Vanessa McKenny and the late George Anderson.
He graduated from North Country Union High School in Newport. Mr. Anderson loved God, his family, and country. He entered the U.S. Army for a brief time. He was sweet, kind and very generous to all he met. He worked at a hardware store and laundromat for a number of years. He enjoyed fishing, rides, county fairs, western movies and country music.
He is survived by his mother, Vanessa McKenny, of Lancaster, New Hampshire; by his sisters Barbara Null and Pearl Lane and her husband. He is also survived by his nieces: Jennifer, Amanda, and Crystal.
He was predeceased by his brother Cecil Anderson. A graveside service was held on June 7 in Island Pond.
Bessie R. Brown
....show , 84, of Derby died peacefully on June 1, 2016, in Newport. She was born on March 25, 1932, in Westfield, to Glenis and Harriet (Wright) Goulding.
She married Paul Brown on May 21, 1955, who predeceased her on July 15, 2004. Ms. Brown enjoyed gardening at her home, sewing and craft work.
She is survived by her children: Willie Brown and his wife, Lillian, of Derby, Barbara Waters and her boyfriend, Jessie Swanson, of Eden, Mary Brown of Derby, Candy Brown and her boyfriend, Dee Boehm, of Derby, and James Brown and his wife, Debbie, of Derby; seven grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; and by several nieces and nephews.
She was predeceased by her grandson Zachariah Brown; her brother John Goulding; and by her sisters: Pauli Gibeault and Gertrude Place.
Funeral services were held on June 6 in Newport. Interment followed in Derby Cemetery. Should friends desire, contributions in her memory may be made to the Church of God, 295 Crawford Road, Derby, Vermont, 05829.
Julia Ann Judd Carter
....show , 90, a longtime resident of Holland, died on May 30, 2016, in Newport. She was born on May 23, 1926, in Derby to Ernest and Lillian (Brown) Judd.
She married Harold Carter, who predeceased her, on January 30, 1943. Ms. Carter was a member of the Derby Fish and Game Club, the Holland Historical Society, and was a supporter of the American Cancer Society. Ms. Carter enjoyed being a wife and mother to her family, but she still found time to work for Fred’s Plumbing and Heating for a couple of years. She loved to make quilts, made over 40 as gifts, and donated them to the Holland Historical Society. She and Mr. Carter enjoyed camping and traveling to many different areas — they had camps in Lewis and Poultney. She also served as campaign manager when Vince Illuzzi first started in politics. Ms. Carter was a life member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars and the Purple Heart Association.
She is survived by her children: Velma Crowell of Derby Line, Colin Carter of Barton, and Alex Carter of Holland; by her grandchildren: Sandie and Norman Diggs of Connecticut, Shaun and Songhei Sloan of Idaho, Christelle and Anthony Plourde of Texas, Coralee and Namath Boardman of Swanton; nine great-grandchildren; and three great-great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her brother Ernest Judd and his wife, Martha, of Derby, and by several nieces and nephews.
She was predeceased by her daughter Sheila Rae; her brother Harold; and sisters: Ruby, Ella, Beatrice, Eleanor and Patti. Services will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, June 25, at the Derby Cemetery on Nelson Hill Road.
Should friends desire, contributions in her memory may be made to the Holland Historical Society, 120 School Road, Derby Line, Vermont, 05830.
Ryan T. Coulter
....show , 26, beloved son of Tom Coulter and Marcy Paul, died suddenly on May 29, 2016, as the result of motor vehicle accident in West Charleston He was born in Newport on April 12, 1990.
Mr. Coulter went to school at North Country Union High School and was working at Tivoly in Derby Line as a machinist. He loved playing hockey, fishing, kayaking, drawing and sketching, hanging out with his friends, and playing golf with his brother Tyler. He also enjoyed spending time with partner, Charlene, and her children, as well as Tim Hunt’s children.
He is survived by his mother, Marcy Paul, and her companion, Tim Hunt; his father Tom Coulter and his wife, Robin; his brother Tyler; his grandparents George and Margaret Coulter and John Rock Degre; and Robin’s children, Ryan and Ashlee Daigle; by his aunts and uncles: Steve and Rachel Coulter, Michael Coulter, and Tracy and Michelle Degre; his cousins: Christopher, Jonathan and Myra Degre, Molly Coulter and Melissa Zebrowski and the Starr family; and by his best friend Tyler Perkins; as well as many others.
Mr. Coulter was predeceased by his grandmother Gene Ann Degre; his aunt Sherry Coulter and Mario Paul. Funeral services were held on June 7 in Derby.
Should friends desire, contributions in his memory may be made to Border Minor Hockey, in care of Community National Bank, 4811 U.S. Route 5, Newport, Vermont, 05855.
Timothy “Tim” Gardner Currier
....show , 64, of Island Pond died suddenly on May 27, 2016, in New Haven, Connecticut. He was born on November 27, 1951, in Newport to Lance and Marguerite (Ellsworth) Currier. On February 24, 2000, he married Sandie Moss, who survives him.
He graduated from North Country Union High School in 1972 and entered the United States Army. He was a self-employed fair and carnival concessionaire. He also worked at Ethan Allen Manufacturing, which he retired from. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, and working at the fairs and carnivals. He was a member of American Legion Post #80 of Island Pond.
He is survived by his wife, Sandie Currier, of Island Pond; by his children: Christopher Currier and his wife, Heather, of Houma, Louisiana, Jeremy Currier and his wife, Brandy, of Wheelock; by his stepchildren: Shianna Jones of North Troy, Antonin Hebert of Derby, and Joseph Hebert and his wife, Danni, of Newport; by 22 grandchildren and three great-grandchildren; by his siblings: Janice Currier Blais of Newport, Gerald Currier of Newport, Allen Currier and his wife, Lynn, of LaCosta, Florida, Robert Currier and his wife, Denise, of Newport, Brian Currier and his wife, Claudine, of Holland, Michael Currier and his wife, Lisa, of Windsor, and Loren Currier of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma; and by numerous nieces and nephews.
He was predeceased by his siblings: Nancy Percy, Donald, Bruce, Thomas, and infants Paul and Paula and Pamela Currier. Services were held on June 6 in Newport. Military honors were held at the funeral home following the service.
Shane David Green
....show , 49, of Derby, died at his home on May 27, 2016.
He was born on New Years day in 1967, attended Derby Elementary School, and graduated from North Country Union High School in 1985. Mr. Green enjoyed moto-cross racing and was a former two-time state champion at the Rider Hill race track. He loved hunting from an early age out of the family camp, snowmobiling, horseshoes, barbecues, and the annual Connecticut River canoe trips. He was an excellent carpenter and built several homes in the Northeast Kingdom. Above all, he was an unbelievably wonderful and dedicated father to all of his children. His quick wit, big smile, great sense of humor, and compassion will be missed by all whose lives he touched.
He is survived by his three sons: Matthew, Nathan, and Jesse, whom he loved very much; his special daughter Kya Paige, who held his heart in her hands from the moment she was born; his granddaughter Kiersten; his father Del Green, and his, wife Nancy; his mother, Paula Thibodeau, and her husband, Barry; his brother Shawn Green and his children: Selena, Christopher and Kaitlyn; his step-siblings Sandy and Tom Emery, Barry junior, Scott and Debby Thibodeau, Susan and Allen Myers, and Eric Thibodeau. He is also survived by the following aunts and uncles: Bob and Joan Green, Todd and Julie Bedard, Craig and Marcia Bedard, Pamela Bothwell, Harry and Sondra Baker, Susan Green, Cam Green, Sandra Fowler, and David Young; by his extended Curtis family of uncles and aunts: Dave and Kristi Curtis, Craig and Laura Curtis, Joan Curtis, and Francine Curtis; by his special friends Jessica Brown; Paul Patenaude; Tim Patenaude and Brian Judd; by his cousin Travis Green and his wife Heather; the Furbush family of Dick, Rick and Pam; Skip and Walter Lamere; and many more wonderful friends, too numerous to mention.
He was predeceased by his paternal grandparents Bill and Shirley Green and grandmother Ruth Green; maternal grandparents Paul and Frances Bedard; uncles Bill Green Jr. and Richard Green; cousin Tyler Green; and aunt Donna Fowler. He was also predeceased by his uncle and special friend Jim Bothwell.
There will be a celebration of life from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., on Saturday, June 18, at the Guillette Pavilion at 884 Salem-Derby Road, in Derby.
Richard Dean “Squeak” McAdam
....show , 75, of Maple Lane Nursing Home in Barton, formerly of Hardwick, died on June 4, 2016. He was born on May 2, 1941, in Hardwick, the son of the late Frederick and Jesslyn (Davis) McAdam. He attended Hardwick Academy.
In his earlier years, Mr. McAdam worked as a farmhand for Noel Lussier and with the St. Johnsbury and Lamoille County Railroad in the Hardwick area. Later, he was employed, for more than ten years, by the Wells-Lamson Quarry in Graniteville and, until he retired due to failing health in 1995, he was employed by Ron LeClair in Hardwick. Mr. McAdam was a member of the United Church of Hardwick. He was an avid Boston Red Sox, Boston Celtics, and New England Patriots fan. He enjoyed fishing, crossword puzzles, playing pool, and pitching horseshoes.
He is survived by his brother Kenneth McAdam and his wife, Elaine, of Brownington; a niece; a nephew; three great-nieces; one great-nephew; two great-great-nephews; and many cousins.
Memorial services will be held at 11 a.m. on Friday, June 10, at the Northern Vermont Funeral Home at 60 Elm Street in Hardwick, with the Reverend Dr. Evelyn Lavelli officiating.
Visiting hours will be held on Friday from 10 a.m. until the hour of the service. Interment will follow in the family lot in the Main Street Cemetery in Hardwick.
In lieu of flowers, contributions in his memory may be made to: Silver Towers Camp, 56 Silver Towers Road, Ripton, Vermont, 05766-0166.
David George Pennington
....show , 69, of Holland died peacefully on May 31, 2016. He was born on April 28, 1947, in Hartford, Connecticut, to George and Barbara (Philbrick) Pennington. He graduated from Weaver High School in Hartford, Connecticut.
Mr. Pennington was a self-employed carpenter and more recently was employed by Columbia Forest Products. His hobbies included cutting wood, his pets, horticulture, and agriculture.
He is survived by his children: David Cory Pennington and his wife, Shari, of Newport, Cable James Pennington and his fiancé, Amy Kelley, of Holland, and Tyler Paxton Fairbanks of New York, New York; by his grandchildren: Jacob, Nicole, Emily and Maxwell; by his sisters: Sue Yeager of Pennsylvania, Debbie Oborski of Marlboro, Connecticut, and Becky West of East Hartford, Connecticut; and by his brother Jon Pennington of Schuylerville, New York.
Services will be held at the convenience of the family.
Judith A. Raboin
....show , 70, of Island Pond, died on June 1, 2016, in Newport. She was born on December 6, 1945, in Lincoln, Maine, to Elwin and Roberta (Gross) Boyington.
In 1976, she married Robert Raboin, who survives her. Mrs. Raboin operated her own greenhouse. She enjoyed flower gardening, cooking, and watching the birds and wild animals.
She is survived by her husband, Robert Raboin, of Island Pond; by her children: Tina Allen of Milton, Angela Knudson and her husband, Peter, of Randolph, Donna Harwid of Bradford, Roberta Royer and her husband, Jacques, of North Troy, and Jeremy Raboin of Island Pond; by nine grandchildren; and several great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her siblings: Vynal Boyington of Fort Kent, Maine, Virginia Dudley of Washington, Sylvia Marcum of Florida, and Beverly Boyington of Tennessee.
Private services will be held at the convenience of the family. Should friends desire, contributions in her memory may be made to the Mary Wright Halo Foundation, 1073 Upper Quarry Road, Newport, Vermont, 05855.
Esperanza Charlene Robles
....show , 28, of Derby Line, died suddenly on May 29, 2016, along with her partner in life, Ryan Coulter, in West Charleston. She was born on August 17, 1987, in Deland, Florida, beloved daughter of Benjamin and Deborah (Emerson) Robles.
She graduated from North Country Union High School in 2005 and graduated from Community College of Vermont, in Newport, with a liberal arts degree. She was an administrative assistant for Land Vest.
Her hobbies included kayaking, being in the outdoors, spending time with friends, listening to music, watching the Boston Bruins, and spending time outside with her children.
She is survived by her parents, Benjamin and Deborah Robles of Newport; by her children: Naturelle Wells, and Brody and Myles Wright, all of Derby Line; by her siblings: Vicky Froelich of Deland, Florida, Lisa Galloway of Deland, Florida, Valentina Velasquez of Brattleboro, Christina Vasquez of Johnson, and Anna Chaffee; by her husband Paul of Derby; by her sons’ father Damen Wright; and by several nieces and nephews.
Funeral services were held on June 6 in Newport, with interment in St. Mary’s Cemetery. Should friends desire, contributions in her memory may be made to Go Fund Me Account - Esperanza Charlene Robles.
Judith Sheltra Cornell
....show , 63, of Newport Center died on May 27, 2016, at her home in Newport Center. She was born on July 9, 1952, to Burton and Lillian (Pope) Baraw.
She enjoyed her years as a seamstress at several businesses such as Slalom, Hedma and Vermont Teddy Bear. But her most recent years were spent as an LNA, which she also enjoyed. She also enjoyed rides with Steve on their Harley and she loved family gatherings.
She is survived by her companion, Steve Mackay, of Newport Center; her children: Robert and his wife, Lynnette Deaette, of Jay, Donald and his wife, Diane Deaette, of Jericho, Brad Deaette of Swanton, David and his wife, Tammy Cornell, of Newport, Rodney and his wife, Sage Cornell, of Derby, Michael Cornell of Newport, Shawn Cornell and his girlfriend, Judy, of New Hampshire, and Shannon Johnson and her husband, Mike, of North Carolina; several grandchildren, and great-grandchildren; and by her siblings: Jackie and her husband, Charles Arel, of Vergennes, Sherrill Sheltra of Newport, Steve Baraw of Newport Center, Tim Baraw of Newport Center, and Penny and her husband, Gary Coe, of Newport Center.
She was predeceased by her parents, Burton and Lillian Baraw; and by her brother Gary Sheltra. Services will be held at the convenience of the family.
Gail L. Kilmartin
....show , late of Newport and West Palm Beach, Florida, died on April 12, 2016, in Haverhill, Massachusetts, from complications due to ovarian cancer.
She was born on October 6, 1942, in New Rochelle, New York, to Robert W. Newfang and “Sunny” Gillett Johnson, who predeceased her. She was the beloved wife of Duncan Kilmartin for nearly 52 years.
She is survived by her daughters and sons-in-law: Courtney Gillett Kilmartin and her husband, Tom Williams, and Sara Tyler and her husband, Ben Wyllie; her grandchildren: Cullen Duncan, Mora Gillett, and Kelsey Sara Wyllie; her sister and brother-in-law Marcia Gillett and Dr. Glenn Koponen; and by her nephews: Michael Kari and Brian Robert Koponen.
Calling hours will be from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. on Friday, June 10, at the Derby Community Church on Main Street in Derby. A celebration of her life will be held on Saturday, June 11, at 1 p.m., at the Derby Community Church. Interment will be at the Gillett family plot at Woodlawn Cemetery in New York City in June of 2016.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Dana Farber Cancer Center, P.O. Box 849168, Boston, Massachusetts, 02284-9168; or to United Christian Academy, 65 School Street, Newport, Vermont 05855; or to the Derby Community Church, P.O. Box 294, Derby, Vermont 05829.
Hope Gardenia Wynkoop Kross
....show , 98, of Derby, and formerly of McLean, Virginia, died on May 20, 2016, in Derby. She was born on February 27, 1918, in New Brunswick, New Jersey, the only child of John Gardener and Juliette (O’Connor) Wynkoop.
In 1948, she married John I. Kross, who predeceased her in 1971. Mrs. Kross earned her bachelor’s degree and was a teacher at the University of Wisconsin in Madison, Wisconsin, while her husband was a professor of agriculture there. She spoke several different languages and traveled extensively with her husband and family as he fulfilled his job as a diplomat for the U.S. government. Mrs. Kross was an accomplished artist and has left her family many pieces of her oil paintings of Europe. She enjoyed entertaining, as she hosted many formal functions in helping her husband perform his duties.
At the age of 70, she accomplished navigator school so that she could sail her own boat on Chesapeake Bay. She lived many of her later years with her daughter Laura.
Mrs. Kross is survived by her daughter Laura Kross of Brownington, and her son Randolph Kross of Orleans; a grandchild, Dane Kross, and his partner, Amy Elliott, of Orleans; a great-grandson, Daemyn Kross, of Orleans; a special friend, Alfred Tittle, of Alexandria, Virginia; and by a special grand-niece, Rita Kross, of Cape Coral, Florida.
She was predeceased by her husband, John I. Kross. Services will be held at the convenience of the family. Interment to follow in Arlington, Virginia.
Charlotte Bernard Rivard
....show , 79, of Newport died peacefully on May 27, 2016, in Newport. She was born on April 23, 1937, in Bristol, Connecticut, to Andrew and Roberta (Bishop) Bernard.
She graduated from Newport High School and Lyndon State College with a bachelor of science degree. She started teaching in Williston and later taught for over 20 years at the Hillside Elementary School in Newport. She was a CCD (Confraternity of Christian Doctrine) teacher at St. Mary’s Star of the Sea Catholic Church in Newport, and was a volunteer for Meals on Wheels and served the needs of others, especially the elderly and shut-ins.
She truly devoted her life to raising her children and grandchildren. Her hobbies included reading, knitting, sewing, feeding the birds, doing word puzzles, and she was a Red Sox fan and a devout Catholic.
She is survived by her children: Martin Rivard and his wife, Roxann, of Troy, Bill Rivard and his wife, Sally, of Jay, Lynne Fortunati and her husband, Robert, of Coventry, and Bernard Rivard and his husband, Jason Willis, of St. Petersburg, Florida; her grandchildren: Martin Rivard Jr. and his wife, Kate, of Derby, Andrew Rivard and his partner, Karla, of Troy, Taylor Rivard of Westfield, and Colby and Jillian Fortunati, both of Coventry.
Private services will be held at the convenience of the family. Should friends desire, contributions in her memory may be made to the American Cancer Society, Relay for Life, 55 Day Lane, Williston, Vermont 05495.
Raymond J. Allen Jr.
....show of West Charleston died on May 21, 2016, in Newport. He was the beloved husband of Barbara Allen.
Services will be held at the convenience of the family.
Justyn “Jollie” (Dwinell) Parker
....show - A celebration of the life of Jollie Parker (Justyn Dwinell) will be held on Saturday, June 11, at 11 a.m., at her home at 67 Lamoille View Drive in Johnson, directly across from the Lamoille View Cemetery, for her service and reception.
All who wish to attend are lovingly invited by her children, Wendy (Parker) Williams, Cyrus, Hal, and Perry Parker, and Hollie (Parker) Winzenread.
Claude Morin
....show - Committal services for Claude Morin will be held at 10 a.m. on Saturday, June 4, at St. Edward’s Catholic Cemetery in Derby Line.
Gail C. (Colburn) Auger
....show died suddenly on May 13, 2016, at the age of 67 after a long struggle with COPD. She was born in Newport on December 23, 1948, daughter of Blanche (Badger) and Maurice Colburn. In 1966 she married her soul mate, Philippe Auger. Together they raised their only daughter, Carleen. In November they would have celebrated 50 years of marriage.
She spent most of her married life doing the bookkeeping for P&G Trucking, which she and her husband owned for over 20 years. She loved the outdoors, spending time snowmobiling, and riding ATVs. She cherished the view from her kitchen in the house that she and her husband shared for 46 years. She spent all of her days in the company of her beloved dog Princess.
She loved to spend time with her family but none more than her grandchildren Taylor and Tanner. They were her pride and joy. She was very proud of the young adults that they have become.
She is survived by her husband, Phil, of North Troy; her daughter Carleen and her husband, Eric Starr, of North Troy; her granddaughter Taylor Starr and her friend, Chase Locke, of Randolph; her grandson Tanner Starr of North Troy; her brothers and sisters: Joyce Curtis, Cecile Randall and her husband, Charlie, Dick Colburn and his wife, Diane, Theresa Bonvouloir and her husband, Richard, and Beth Colburn; and by several nieces and nephews.
She was predeceased by her parents, Blanche and Maurice Colburn; her brothers: Roy Colburn and Terry Colburn and his wife, Brenda; and by her sister Marilyn Sweeney.
Funeral services were held on May 21 in Newport.
Carol A. Craft
....show , 73, of Coventry died on May 20, 2016, at her home. She was born on October 27, 1942, in Barton, to Earl and Barbara (Green) Young. At one time she worked at the former Waterfront Cinema and she formerly worked at the Coventry Village School. She was a former member of the Order of the Eastern Star, Irasburg chapter. Her hobbies included making crafts.
She is survived by her daughter Jennifer Craft of Goffstown, New Hampshire. She was predeceased by her sister Linda Vining. Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. on Friday, May 27, at the Curtis-Britch-Converse-Rushford Funeral Home, 4670 Darling Hill Road, Newport with the Reverend Fred Barker officiating. Friends may call at the funeral home on May 27, from 1 p.m. until the hour of the funeral. Interment will follow in Coventry Village Cemetery.
Should friends desire, contributions in her memory may be made to the Mary Halo Foundation, 1073 Upper Quarry Road, Newport, Vermont 05855.
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