, age 78, passed away at his home surrounded by his family, on Friday, November 11, 2016. He was born in Enosburg Falls on October 3, 1938 the son of the late Charles & Winifred (Irish) Gates. Howard grew up in Enosburg. He served in the Navy. July 11, 1959 he married Mary Towle. Together they established a registered herd of Jersey cows and created Howmars Farm. He worked some off the farm in construction and farm machinery sales, but it was the farm he came back to. He enjoyed his many years of service in local government. He loved his family and their times together, the land, sugaring, a game of cards, deer camp and a good joke. He will be greatly missed. He is survived by his wife, Mary (Towle) Gates of Franklin. He is also survived by his children, Patty Whittemore and her husband Marty of Franklin, Jon Gates and his wife Karen of Franklin, Betsy Baker and her husband Jeff of Brookfield, and Steven Gates of Franklin; his grandchildren, Benjamin, Justin, Emily, Hanna, Zachariah, Madeline & Noah; his sisters, Carolyn Perley of Enosburgh, Susan Clark and her husband Douglas of Franklin, and Charles Jay Gates of Vermont; several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his father, Charles Gates and his mother, Winifred DeGoosh. DUE TO THE WEATHER the service scheduled for the Maple Gove Cemetery will be moved to the Franklin United Church, 5414 Main St., Franklin on the same date and time (Saturday, November 26, 2016 at 1:00 PM) with Rev. Dr. Jason McConnell officiating. There will be no visiting hours. A reception will be held at the Franklin United Church following the memorial service. For those who wish, contributions in Howards memory may be made to the Franklin County Home Health Agency - Hospice Program, 3 Home Health Circle, St. Albans, VT.

, age 84, passed away unexpectedly on Friday, November 11, 2016 at his home in the Franklin Carriage House. He was born in Montgomery on July 11, 1932 the son of the late Grant & Attrude (Domina) Kidder. He married Jane (Norris) Kidder, daughter of Paul Norris and Florence Drummond Norris, on May 12, 1958. Doug was a resident of Richford most of his life. He was a US Army veteran serving during the Korean War. He was a member of the American Legion Post #12 of Richford where he held several offices, the Missisquoi Lodge # 9, F&AM of Richford, Mystic Shrine of the Mount Sinai Temple and the Teamsters Union Local 597. He was a lifelong trucker having worked for several trucking businesses including Hemingway, Holmes, Wrightholm, McDermotts and operated his own truck for a brief period. Doug enjoyed reading and working on his woodpile with friends and family. In retirement, you could find him at the local coffee shop late mornings or early afternoons; he truly enjoyed sharing stories and jokes with friends and family. His dry sense of humor and keen memory made for lively discussions. In his younger years he enjoyed snowmobiling, riding motorcycle and playing golf. Doug also had a special fondness for dogs. He is survived by his wife, Jane (Norris) Kidder; his children, Randy Kidder and his wife Debbie of Topeka, KS, Mike Kidder of Richford, Sharon Waterhouse and her husband Mark of Richford, and Kim Manley and her husband Ward of Enosburg Center; his grandchildren, Chris Brown his wife Daphne, Shelli Bartnick her husband Mike, Matt Brown, Elizabeth Izzy Kidder, Jessica Kett her husband Bill, Josh Waterhouse his wife Cristy, Craig Fuller, and Dana Fuller and his wife Alyssa; his great grandchildren, Hunter & Hayden Brown, Madison Bartnick, Jayna & Adam Kett, Haddie & Emilia Waterhouse, and Elliot, Harper & Charlotte Fuller; his brother, James Kidder and his wife Shirley of Bay City, OR; many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his father, Grant Kidder; his mother, Attrude Myott; his brother, Richard Kidder; and his sisters, Andrea Bowden & Georganna Anderson. A funeral service will be held Thursday November 17, 2016 at 1:00 PM at the Spears Funeral Home, 96 Dickinson Ave., Enosburg Falls with Pastor Patrick Hoadley officiating. Interment with military honors will follow in the Richford Center Cemetery. A time of visitation will be held at the funeral home on Thursday from 11:00 AM until the hour of the funeral. For those who wish, contributions in Dougs memory may be made to Franklin County Home Health Agency - Home Care Program, 3 Home Health Circle, St. Albans, VT 05478 or to the Franklin County Animal Shelter, 30 Sunset Meadows, St. Albans, VT 05478

, age 84, died late Tuesday morning, November 8,2016, in the St. Albans Healthcare and Rehabilitation Center with loving family at her side. Born in Granby, Quebec Canada she was the daughter of the late Joseph and Bella (Meunier) Beland. She attended schools in Canada and on, September 30, 1950, was married to Marcel Leon Beauvais who predeceased her on, July 31st of this year. She was also predeceased by a brother Aurel and granddaughter Elizabeth Depatie. As an excellent seamstress, Claire worked many years throughout the Franklin County area and Canada. She leaves one son, Robert Beauvais and his wife Connie of Charleston, ME; three daughters, Diane Knight of St. Albans, Vivian Louise Fortin of St. Albans and Edith Depatie and husband Luc of Highgate Center; a brother, Jerome Beland and two sisters, Marcella and Etiennette Beland all of Granby; 14 grandchildren; 18 great grandchildren and three great great grandchildren as well as many nieces and nephews. The Liturgy of Christian Burial will be celebrated Saturday, November 12, 2016, at 11 a.m. from The Church of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary. Father Luke P. Austin will be the celebrant and homilist. The Rite of Committal and Interment will be private and at the families convenience in St, Marys Cemetery. Friends may call at The Kidder Memorial Home, 89 Grand Ave., Swanton on Saturday morning from 9 to 10:30 a.m., Gifts in Mrs. Beauvais memory may be made to the charity of your choice.

, age 89, passed away peacefully into Heaven on Monday, November 7, 2016, at the Northwestern Medical Center in St. Albans as his daughter-in-law, Tammie sang Amazing Grace to him. He was born in Barcelona, Spain on May 21, 1927 the son of the late Miguel Concejo and Conception Concejo-March. Juan lived an incredible life of 89 years. At the age of 18 he was traveling to Argentina when he made a life-changing stop in France along the way. It was the 14th of July, a national holiday. While dancing in the streets of Paris, he met the love of his life, Josianne, and he never made it to Argentina. Juan adopted Josiannes daughter, Patricia, and with the birth of their son, Michel, their family was complete. Despite a 10th grade education, he was a very intelligent man who spoke Spanish, Catalan, French and English. Juan became a certified electrician in Paris, and was self-employed most of his life. Juan and Josie moved to the United States in 1979, and with their adult children and grandchildren, owned and operated the Jay Village Inn for several years. Papa was a chef at the Inn; Paella was his specialty. Juan had a joie de vivre and a great sense of humor. Everybody loved Papa. Prior to his retirement, he worked with Michel at L & T Satelite Systems. He and Josie made Richford their home. Josie survives home, along with his children, Michel Consejo of Sheldon and Patricia Heffernan of Montreal; his grandchildren and their families; Frank Consejo of Paris, Julien Consejo of Swanton, Monique Ianni of Colchester, Vance Schug of Burlington, Kelley Heffernan of Montreal; and a special son-in-law, Bill Schug of Florida. He was predeceased by his parents and a brother, Miguel Concejo. In keeping with Juans wishes, there will be no visiting hours and memorial services will be private. Spears Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in Juans name to the charity of your choice.

, age 71 years, died Monday morning, December 5, 2016, at The University of Vermont Medical Center with loving family at his side. Born in St. Albans on, November 7, 1945, he was the son of the late Edgar and Lilliane (Montagne) Thibault. He graduated from the former St. Annes Academy and on, July 30, 1966, was married to his high school sweetheart the former Cheryl Bostwick who survives him. He faithfully served his country in the Vermont Air National Guard during the Viet Nam Era. After 37 years of service, John retired as a supervisor for the Union Carbide Corporation in St. Albans and then worked another 16 years for Hog Island Bait and Tackle. He was proud of his Roman Catholic faith and was a devoted lifelong parishioner of Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary-St. Louis Parish. He was also a Fourth Degree member of the Knights of Columbus, St. Edmund of Canterbury Assembly 2207 in Swanton. He will especially be remembered for his devotion as a husband, father and grandfather. Family was always first in his life and they came before anything else. John was happiest when he was sitting at home by the lake with his family and friends. In addition to his wife Cheryl of 50 years, John leaves two daughters, Jennifer Conger and husband Todd and Jill Farnham and husband Dan; grandchildren, Matthew and Amanda Conger and William Farnham all of West Swanton; Also surviving are his siblings, Robert and Barbara Thibault of Colorado, Reine and Richard Belles of N. Carolina and Gerald Thibault and companion Wendy Chase of St. Albans; brothers and sisters-in-law, Marcus Bostwick and Georgette of Arizona and Jim and Carmela Bostwick of Essex as well as several aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins. The Liturgy of Christian Burial will be celebrated Saturday, December 10, 2016, at 12 Noon from The Church of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary, 65 Canada St., Swanton. Father Luke P. Austin will be the celebrant and homilist. Private committal service, (for immediate family only) with military honors, will follow in St. Marys Cemetery. At Johns request there will be no public calling hours. It is requested that in lieu of flowers gifts in Johns memory be made to the Make-A-Wish Foundation, 431 Pine St., #214, Burlington 05401 or to Missisquoi Valley Rescue, P.O. Box 22, Swanton 05488

, age 84 years, went to her eternal reward on Sunday evening, December 4, 2016, at The University of Vermont Medical Center with loving family at her side. A longtime resident of Swanton Selina resided for the past seven years at the Helen Porter Health and Rehabilitation Center in Middlebury. Born in Clark, New Jersey on, November 25, 1932, she was the daughter of the late Herman and Esther (Schuster) Meissner. She graduated from Clark High School and on July 28, 1951, was married to Russell Dumont who predeceased her on May 30, 2008. Selina will always be remembered as a master crafter who made many beautiful things and traveled to various craft shows throughout Vermont. She also taught crafting and for many years organized the Nativity Craft Show in Swanton. She was devoted to her Catholic faith and as a parishioner of Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary-St. Louis Parish belonged to the churchs Altar Society. She loved to sing and perform and in earlier years volunteered at the former Brandon Training school. Selina leaves her son, Randy Dumont and his wife Peggy; granddaughters, Kyla and Kelsey Dumont; grandsons, Chad Dumont and his children, Brandon, Anthony and Hunter; Russell Dumont and partner Morgan Barnum; granddaughter, Rachael LeGrand and husband Casey and their children, Mayce and Zachary; her sister, Dorothy Kruse as well as many nieces, nephews and friends. She also leaves behind her special friend and roommate, Marie. Besides her parents and her husband Russell, Selina was predeceased by a son, Richard Ricky Dumont; a sister Lucille and husband James Collins; brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, William Kruse, Delores and George Bellrose, Robert and Ruth Dumont, Frederick and Theresa Dumont and Raymond Dumont. The Liturgy of Christian Burial will be celebrated Friday, December 9, 2016, at 11 a.m. from The Church of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary, 65 Canada St., Swanton. Father Thomas D. Nadeau will be the celebrant and homilist. The Rite of Committal and Interment will follow at the Dumont family lot in St. Marys Roman Catholic Cemetery. Friends may call at The Kidder Memorial Home, 89 Grand Ave., Swanton on Thursday from 4 to 7 p.m. Gifts in Selinas memory may be made to the Make-A-Wish Foundation, 431 Pine St., #214, Burlington 05401

, age 67 years, died Sunday evening, December 4, 2016, at his Jones Court home with his wife Evelyn and other loving family at his side. Born in Greensville, S. Carolina on, March 4, 1949, he was the son of the late Edward Cooper. He resided in Fernley, Nevada where he met online, the former Evelyn Hawkins from Vermont, in 1999. Evelyn joined John in Nevada where they later married on October 14, 2003, then moved back to Vermont in 2012 to make Swanton their home. John faithfully served his country in the United States Army during the Viet Nam Era. He was very proud of his military service and loved his country and all veterans. He also loved motorcycles immensely but had to put aside that hobby after he was diagnosed with Parkinsons disease. In addition to his wife Evelyn, John leaves two children, Melissa and Robin Cooper and their children, Matthew Cooper, Bryce Prouty and Sage Cooper. He also is survived by additional family in Vermont, Wisconsin and S. Carolina which include, two stepsons, Randy Hawkins and Timothy and Loriann Hawkins and their children, Jason and Keri Hawkins and their three children, Kierstynn, Keira and Reese Hawkins. Also Matthew Hawkins and Sara Utter, Courtney Hawkins and Josh Jodoin and Coby Hawkins; sisters-in-law, Sandra Larsen and her two sons, Drew and Todd Larsen, Cynthia and Sam Sheldon and children, Chris Cross and Brenda, Ashley and Macey Cross, Kimberly and Jason Hutchins, Isaac Hutchins, Ava Hutchins, Jason Cross, Nicole Cross, Ashley Sheldon, Brenden Greeno, Ryan Greeno and Alee Greeno. He also leaves behind special friends in Nevada, Mike and Mel McCusky, Hal and Cindy Litchtenwald, Larry Neal and Darlene Baldwin; in Vermont, Dorothy Beaulieu and Sheree Martel; in New York, Rita (Rudy) Chapola. He was predeceased by his mother-in-law, Alberta Glover; brother-in-law, Allan Glover Jr. and brother-in-law, Lane Larsen. Johns family extends their sincerest Thanks to Sheree Martel a very special person, Franklin County Home Health Agency and Hospice and Father Luke P. Austin. Friends may call at The Kidder Memorial Home, 89 Grand Avenue, Swanton on Friday, December 23, 2016, from 6 to 8:30 p.m. Father Austin will conclude the evening with a prayer service at 8:30 p.m. Gifts in Johns memory may be made to the American Legion, 100 Parah Drive, St. Albans

, age 66, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, November 30, 2016 at the Northwestern Medical Center in St. Albans with her loving family at her side. She was born March 12, 1950 at the Stanley Nursing Home in Sheldon to Barbara (Knisley) Cutting and the late Harold Cutting. Jean attended school in Bakersfield and later graduated from Enosburg Falls High School. After high school she went on to nursing training and obtained her L.P.N. Jean loved helping others and was a very loving and dedicated nurse most of her life; she worked at St. Albans Hospital and several nursing homes throughout the area. In addition to spending time with her family, her favorite hobbies were gardening, caring for her house plants, berry picking, crafting and shopping with her dear friend, Nancy. She is survived by the absolute love of her life, Gary Clough of East Bakersfield; their children, Christopher Clough and his wife Shauna of Colchester and Jeffrey Clough and his wife Stefanie of Alburgh; her siblings, Peggy Record and her husband Jim of Berkshire, Gary Cutting and his wife Susie of East Richford, John Cutting and his wife Francoise of Swanton, Steven Cutting and his wife Paula of Franklin and Michael Cutting and his wife Pam of Franklin; her father-in-law, Arthur Clough of Monkton; sisters-in-law, Carol Paquette and her husband Danny of Cape Coral, FL and Darlene McNally and her husband Loran of Monkton; her beloved uncle, Wendell Bing Gilbert and his friend Charlotte White and many nieces, nephews and cousins whom she truly adored! Jean was predeceased by her father, Harold Cutting. A funeral service will be Tuesday, December 6, 2016 at 11:00 AM at the Enosburg Falls United Methodist Church, 245 Church St., Enosburg Falls with Rev. Jon Bly officiating. Visitation will be held Monday from 4-7 pm at the Spears Funeral Home, 96 Dickinson Ave., Enosburg Falls. For those who wish, contributions in Jeans memory may be made to the Enosburg Falls United Methodist Church, P.O. Box 355, Enosburg Falls, VT 05450 or to the Enosburgh Food Shelf, P.O. Box 614, Enosburg Falls, VT 05450.

, age 77 years, died Wednesday morning, November 30, 2016, at her Carter Hill residence in Highgate Springs. Shirley lived most of her life in Fairfield and more recently in Highgate Springs. Born in Bakersfield, Vermont on, December 13, 1938, she was the daughter of the late Arthur and Myrtle (White) Hughes. She attended school in Fairfield and on, September 25, 1993, was married to Paul Turner who survives her. In addition to her husband Paul, Shirley leaves her sons, James Royea and companion Sylvia Mayer of St Albans and Tim Royea and companion Jill Trahan of Swanton; two daughters, Diane Martin and companion Kevin Deyo of Alburgh and Penny Royea of Highgate; a brother, Lawrence Hughes and wife Evette of New York and sisters, Phyllis Hall of Burlington and Ruth LaBelle of Bakersfield as well as several nieces and nephews. Besides her parents Shirley was predeceased by brothers, Arthur Jr., Mitch, and Reggie Hughes; sisters, Pearl, Lizzy and Freda and a brother-in-law, Norman Hall as well as many nieces and nephews. At Shirleys request Funeral Services and Interment will be private and at the convenience of the family. There will be no public calling hours. Gifts in Shirleys memory may be made to the charity of your choice.

, age 73, passed away Monday, November 28, 2016 at his home in Berkshire. He was born November 6, 1943 in St. Albans to the late Glenn & Reta (Pattee) Kinney. Alan married Joyce Doe on June 16, 1967. He loved working on the farm, especially when haying and sugaring season came around. His favorite hobbies were bulldozing and hunting. Alan also loved spending time with his grandchildren. He is survived by his wife, Joyce Kinney; their son, Andy Kinney, his wife Jennifer and their children Ada & Michael all of Berkshire; his brother, Raymond Kinney and his wife Ginny of Berkshire and several nieces & nephews. Besides his parents, Alan was predeceased by his children, Michael and Alan Kinney Jr. A funeral service will be held at 1:00 PM on Thursday, December 1, 2016 at the Spears Funeral Home, 96 Dickinson Ave., Enosburg Falls. Visitation will be held on Wednesday at the funeral home from 4:00-7:00 PM. For those who wish, contributions in Alans memory may be made to the Franklin County Home Health Agency, 3 Home Health Circle, St. Albans, VT 05478.

, age 61, passed away Monday, November 28, 2016 at his home in Virginia following a short battle with cancer. He was born February 28, 1955 in St. Albans, VT to the late Paul & Kathrine (Root) Benoit. Andy attended St. Albans Bay School and Union 7 School. He dedicated 45 years of his life working as a janitor in public school systems throughout Chittenden and Franklin County. Recently, on April 23, 2016, Andy married his partner for the past 16 years, Pauline White. He was an outdoorsman through and through; he was a member of the NRA and he loved to hunt, fish, camp and ride 4-wheelers. Andy also enjoyed looking at antique tractors and muscle cars; his dream was to own one someday. Andy was a quiet and humble man who not only enjoyed his family immensely, but was so proud of each and every one of them. He enjoyed spending time with his family whether it be attending a school function for his children or grandchildren, gathering for the holidays, or just talking about the good old days! He is survived by his wife, Pauline White Benoit of Blackstone, VA; his children, Tabitha Benoit and her partner Justin Peters and Dorothy Carpenter and her husband John all of Colchester, Caitlin Benoit and her partner Donny Clark and Mallory Benoit all of Bakersfield; 5 grandchildren, Alexis, Madison, Elizabeth, Lilly and Justin Benoit and one on the way, Rowan; his step-children, Connie Nolan and her husband Bobby and Tonya Roberts and her husband William all of Virginia and Anna Vogel and her husband Tracy of Alabama; 7 step-grandchildren, Robert and Chantel Nolan, Dustin Roberts and Hailey, Ritley, Faith and Mechain Hayden; 2 step-great grandchildren, Lenyx Nolan and Huey Roberts; a brother, Robert Benoit of Sheldon and several nieces & nephews. Besides his parents, Andy was predeceased by his brother, Paul Benoit. A memorial service will be held next spring at the Spears Funeral Home in Enosburg Falls, Vermont. For those who wish, contributions in Andys memory may be made to Hospice of Virginia, 202 Clark St., Farmville, VA 23901 or to assist with a headstone for Andy by mailing a donation to Connie Nolan, 6511 Marye Rd., Woodford, VA 22580.

, age 86 years, died early Sunday morning, November 27, 2016, in the Northwestern Medical Center. Born in Highgate she was the daughter of the late John and Vitalis (Minckler) Jackson. She attended Highgate schools and was married to Arnold E. Cheney who predeceased her on August 28, 2004. In addition to her many responsibilities as a wife and mother of a large family, Bertha also worked at General Electric and Softlite. She was a longtime member of the West Swanton United Methodist Church and a life member of the American Legion Auxiliary, Creller-Landon Post 60 in Alburgh. She will be remembered as a wonderful cook and enjoyed traveling. Bertha leaves her children, Eldora (Dodie) Cheney of Colchester, Ernest A. Cheney (Sandra), Kathleen A. Cheney, Betty L. Cheney (George E. Spear, II), Gilbert W. Cheney, Cathy L. Fournier (Rene), Joyce M. Campbell (Duncan), all of Swanton; grandchildren, Marka B. Cheney (fianc, Chris Feeley), Marcus W. Cheney, Benjamin R. Fournier, Jason A. Campbell (Mandy), Katie Lee Campbell, Andrew Cheney (Sarah), Lesley Underwood (Andy) and Matthew Cheney (Solange); great grandchildren, Hunter M. Choiniere, Tucker A. Campbell, Sam Underwood and Charlie Underwood; brother-in-law, Gordon Cheney of Swanton, several nieces and nephews including a special nephew, William (Peanut) Cheney and close family friends, Phyllis White, Molly Renning and Mary Gagne. In addition to her husband Arnold, Bertha was predeceased by a son, Marcus W. Cheney; and grandson, Nicolas G. Fournier. A Funeral Service will be held Friday, December 2, 2016, at 1 p.m. from the Memorial United Methodist Church, 23 Grand Avenue, Swanton. The Reverend Kerry T. Cameron will officiate. Interment will follow at the Cheney family lot in the West Swanton Cemetery. At Berthas request there will be no public calling hours. It is requested that in lieu of flowers gifts in Berthas memory be made to the Nicolas G. Fournier Scholarship Fund, in care of, Becky Hart, Franklin Northwest Supervisory Union, 100 Robin Hood Drive #2, Swanton 05488.

, age 51, passed away Saturday, November 26, 2016 at the University of Vermont Medical Center in Burlington. He was born March 6, 1965 in St. Albans to the late Clifton & Viola (Frederick) Britch. Bill was a man of the outdoors. His favorite hobbies included hunting and fishing, riding 4-wheelers and gardening. He truly enjoyed going to work over the last few years for S&S Construction, his co-workers were some of his best friends. He is survived by his fianc, Laurie Kane of Richford and their daughter, Breana Kane of Newport; his daughter, Sheri Wiegand and her family of St. Albans; step-children, Cody Kane of Enosburg Falls and Chelsea Stevens and her husband Robert of Newport; his siblings, Clifton Britch and his wife Emily of Swanton, Patricia Edgerly of Springville, ME, Robert Britch of Richford, Cynthia Flanders and her husband Tom of St. Johnsbury, Jackie Rossetti and her husband Jeff of Burlington and Thomas Britch of Jeffersonville and several nieces, nephews and close friends. Besides his parents, William was predeceased by a daughter, Chelsey Britch and a sister-in-law, Linda Britch. A graveside memorial service will be held next spring in Maple Grove Cemetery in Bakersfield. For those who wish, contributions in Bills memory may be made to the Franklin County Home Health Agency, 3 Home Health Circle, St. Albans, VT 05478.

, age 75 years, died unexpectedly early Sunday morning, November 20, 2016, at her Pauls Court home in Highgate. Born in Enosburgh Falls, VT on, December 1, 1940, she was the daughter of the late Robert and Irene (Porter) Burleson. She graduated from Enosburgh Falls High School in the Class of 1961 and on, May 5, 1962, was married to Dolore Leonard Laroche who survives her. For several years Barbara worked as a caregiver at Holiday House, Redstone Villa, and the Kings Daughters Home. She loved to sew, crochet, knit and in her spare time enjoyed helping her husband Dolore in the garden and with the fall canning. In addition to her husband Dolore of 54 years, Barbara leaves four sons, Robert L. Laroche and companion Colleen; Steven A. and Jane Laroche, Matthew and Debbie Laroche and Raymond J. Laroche and fiance Holly; her daughter, Dolores and Chris Mattox; 9 grandchildren; 9 great grandchildren; two sisters, Beverley Burleson of Highgate and Sandra Camely and husband Bernard of St. Albans and many brothers and sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews and cousins. Barbara was predeceased by a grandson, David Laroche in 1986. The Liturgy of Christian Burial will be celebrated Saturday, November 26, 2016 at 11 a.m. from St. Louis Roman Catholic Church, 186 Lamkin St, Highgate Center. Father Luke P. Austin will be the celebrant and homilist. The Rite of Committal and Interment will follow at the Burleson family lot in the Enosburgh Center Cemetery. There will be no public calling hours. Gifts in Barbaras memory may be made to the American Diabetes Association, 10 Speen Street, Framingham, Mass 01701.

, age 88, passed away Tuesday, December 27, 2016 at the St. Albans Health & Rehab Facility. He was born April 26, 1928 in Enosburgh to the late Rosaire & Vera (Garrow) Larose. Norbert graduated from Enosburg Falls High School and served in the U.S. Navy. He married Ruth Danyow on February 20, 1950. Norbert held several positons throughout his working career. He spent time at Baileys Feed Store, the pulp mill in Sheldon and he retired from IBM as an electrical engineer in 1991. After retiring from IBM he was a school bus driver for M & C Transport. Norbert also owned and operated a dairy farm for a few years. His hobbies included dancing, woodworking, gambling at casinos, raising horses, gardening and golfing at the Enosburg Falls Country Club. He is survived by his wife, Ruth Larose; their children, Gary Larose and his wife Madeline of Mt. Pleasant, MI, Cynthia Dudley and her husband Arnold of Berkshire and Betsey Larose and her significant other Marcel Parent of Enosburgh; 7 grandchildren, Christopher Larose and his wife Darlene, Michelle Walters and her husband Michael Sr., Marc Larose, Tricia Rossi and her husband Marc, Justin Dudley and his wife Sarah, April Yates and Brooke Parent; 8 great grandchildren, Jacob, Isabelle, Michael Jr., Sam, Kiana, Kaylee, Alexander and Lilah; his siblings, Charles Larose and his wife Bernadette of Enosburg Falls and Ann Bushey and her husband Norman of St. Albans and several nieces & nephews and his beloved cat, Kitty. Besides his parents, Norbert was predeceased by a great grandson, Christian and a brother, Bernard Larose. A Mass of Christian Burial will be Tuesday, January 3, 2017 at 11:00 AM at St. Anthonys Catholic Church, Shawville Rd., Sheldon. Interment will be held this spring in St. Anthonys Catholic Cemetery. Visitation will be held Monday, January 2, 2017 from 4:00-7:00 PM at the Spears Funeral Home, 96 Dickinson Ave., Enosburg Falls. For those who wish, contributions in Norberts memory may be made to the Franklin County Animal Rescue, 30 Sunset Meadows, St. Albans, VT 05478.

, age 94, died peacefully on Tuesday, December 27, 2016 at Our Lady of the Meadows in Richford. She was born in Richford on October 1, 1922 the daughter of the late, Harvey & Elizabeth (Lahue) Bashaw. She was a 1941 graduate of Richford High School and subsequently married Albert Pit Martel on June 27, 1945 and made their home in Richford where they raised their family. She is survived by her sons and their wives, Christopher & Susan Martel of Richford, and Gregory & Dory Martel of Apex, NC; 10 Grandchildren, 11 Great grandchildren; and 2 step grandchildren; several nieces and nephews and special friends, Mr. & Mrs. Robert Stevens, Candice Corey, and Joan Cheeseman and family. Besides her parents, Arlene was predeceased by her husband Albert Pit Martel; her sister, Marjorie Lahue; and her great grandson, Matthew James Martel Jr. The family wishes to thank the office of Dr. Lorne Babb, the management and employees at Our Lady of the Meadows and Franklin County Home Health Agency for their excellent care and compassion. In keeping with Arlenes wishes, there will be no visiting hours or public service. A graveside service for the family will be held at their convenience. For those who wish, contributions in Arlenes memory may be made to Richford Ambulance Service, C/O Donna Sylva, 44 Main Street, Richford, VT 05476.

, age 86, passed away Friday morning, December 23, 2016 at his home following a brief illness. Gene was born October 3, 1930 in Norwalk, CT the son of the late, Stephen & Mary (Proskie) Pynduss Gene enlisted in the U.S. Navy serving for 20 years during the Korean & Vietnam Wars. Following his honorable discharge he went to work as a typesetter for OShea Publishing in Enosburg Falls for one year. He then opened a Sears Store in Richford which he operated from 1968 until his retirement in 1993. He enjoyed collecting coins & stamps, gardening and was an avid reader. Gene was a member of the DAV and a 48 year member of the American Legion Post # 12 of Richford. He is survived by his children, Mark S. Pynduss and his wife Barbara of Alburgh, Marceen A. Pynduss and her partner Nilda A. Farnham of Georgia, and Lucinda S. Szczesniak and her husband John of Schodack Ctr., NY; his grandchildren, Jamina Cook and her husband Michael, Jeffrey Pynduss and his wife Jennifer, Jon Pynduss and his wife Sarah, Camber Szczesniak and Kathleen Szczesniak; his great grandchildren, Annika & Calixte Cook, and Hannah & Annabelle Pynduss; his sisters and their families, Betty Heim and her husband Walter of Arizona and Penny Frederick of Washington. Besides his parents, Gene was predeceased by his wife, Kathleen Pynduss on December 10, 2016. Gene & Kathy were married November 14, 1981. Funeral services will be held Wednesday, December 28, 2016 at 11:00 AM at the Spears Funeral Home, 96 Dickinson Ave., Enosburg Falls with Rev. Karl Hahr officiating. Interment with military honors will follow in the Enosburgh Center Cemetery. Visiting hours will be held Tuesday from 4-7 PM at the Spears Funeral Home in Enosburg Falls.

, age 80, passed away Wednesday, December 21, 2016 at the St. Albans Health & Rehab Center with his family at his side. John was born on November 28, 1936 in Gallipolis, OH the son of the late W. Hollis & Leona (Roush) Whitt. John was a U.S Air Force Veteran for 14 years and then re-enlisted with the U.S. Army for 6 years, serving his country in Vietnam, Germany, France, England and Thailand. Following his honorable discharge from the service he became employed by the State of Vermont as a Correctional Officer at the St. Albans Correctional Facility, retiring in 1996 after 21 years of service. After retirement he enjoyed picking up and delivering cars for Champlain Chevrolet and R&D Enterprises. John was a lifetime member and Past Commander of the American Legion Post #42 of Enosburg Falls, The Veterans of Foreign Wars # 778 and the DAV. He served on the Berkshire Center Cemetery Association and was a member of the Enosburg Falls United Methodist Church. John loved Country music, NASCAR racing, in general all sports and especially enjoyed watching his grandsons play baseball and basketball. He also enjoyed camping, starting out with a pop-up in Germany. After purchasing a motorhome, he enjoyed traveling to Ohio, Nashville, Branson, MO, camping with friends, especially outings with the Champlain Valley Roadrunners Good Sam Club. He also looked forward to bus trips to the casinos in Atlantic City and the drive over to Akwesasne in New York. He is survived by his wife of 52 years, Athalie Lee (Donna) Whitt. John & Lee were married September 5, 1964. He is also survived by his daughter, Dawna Callan; his grandsons, Trevor & Jacob Callan; his sister-in-law, Naomi Whitt; his brother-in-law, Homer Hockman; 3 step-sisters and their husbands, Vivian & Rich Curfman, Betty & Ray Rupe and Joyce & Cliff Bryan; a step-brother and his wife, Kenneth & Sharon Ralph; a brother-in-law and his wife, Rayburn & Shirley Donna; a sister-in-law, Mary Donna; several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his father, W. Hollis Whitt; his mother, Leona Whitt - Ralph; his step father, Kenneth Ralph; brothers, Charles & Harold Whitt and Jerry & Gary who passed away in infancy; his sister, Kay Hockman; step-brother, Marvin Ralph; nephew, Ronnie Whitt; and brother-in-law, Herschel Donna. Funeral services will be held Tuesday December 27, 2016 at 11:00 AM at the Enosburg Falls United Methodist Church, 245 Church St., Enosburg Falls with Rev. Jon Bly officiating. Interment with military honors will take place next spring in the Berkshire Center Cemetery. Visiting hours will be held Monday from 4-7 PM at the Spears Funeral Home, 96 Dickinson Ave., Enosburg Falls. For those who wish, contributions in Johns memory may be made to Enosburg Falls United Methodist Church, P.O. Box 355, Enosburg Falls, VT 05450 or to the Enosburgh Ambulance Service, 83 Sampsonville Road, Enosburg Falls, VT 05450.

, age 74, recently of Stowell St. in St. Albans City, died Sunday, December 18, 2016, at The Villa Rehab with loving family at his side. Born in St. Albans on, December 25, 1941, Leon was the son of the late Oscar and Lucille (Therrien) Unwin. He attended Swanton schools was later married to the former Patricia Corriea who survives him. In addition to his wife Patricia, Leon leaves a son, Todd Unwin and two daughters, Kimberly Benson and husband Paul and Brenda Corelle all of St. Albans; a brother Ronald Unwin of Florida; three close friends, William Greene, Tom Toof, Butch Hakey and his best buddy, his canine companion, Cocoa as well as several grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces, nephews and cousins. Also surviving are Patricias children, Ronald and wife Rhonda Porter of St. Albans and Donald Porter of Swanton Leon worked several years for The Fonda Group and enjoyed fishing, horse shoes, camping, dancing, and hunting. At Leons request there will be no public calling hours or funeral services at this time. Arrangements are under the direction of The Kidder Memorial Home, 89 Grand Ave., Swanton 05488.

, 73 of Meca View Farm, East Berkshire, VT. and formerly of Sunnydell Farm Southampton, MA. passed away on December 16, 2016 at the UVM Medical Center after an eight-month battle with leukemia. Meryl was born August 4, 1943 to Elwyn and Louise (Searle) Fowles. A graduate of the Easthampton High School class of 1961, Meryl graduated from the Stockbridge School of Agriculture in 1963 with a degree in Animal Husbandry. He also attended Cornell University but soon decided his goal was hands-on agriculture so he returned to manage Sunnydell Farm with his father, raising a herd of registered, championship Guernseys. At the same time, he also was hired to be a breeding service technician for Eastern Artificial Insemination (A.I.). For the next fifteen years, Meryl dedicated his life to dairy farming and dairy breeding in surrounding counties. This allowed him to work both jobs and win various Gold Star Breeder and DHIA dairy production records. In 1978 Meryl was chosen as the Outstanding Young Guernsey Farmer for new England, New York and Pennsylvania. In 1979, Sunnydell Farms Guernseys far exceeded the average milk production for the breed with a herd average of over 16,000 pounds of milk and placed in the top ten for herds that size in the United States. In 1981 Meryl moved to New Hampshire as a herdsman on another Guernsey farm but was soon given a large northern Vermont territory for Eastern A.I. and became a full-time breeding technician. He managed to significantly improve services to farmers, doubling the number of first service breedings to 3,600 cows. He received numerous awards for his work including recognition in 1985 and 1986 as being in the top five of all Eastern A.I. technicians to have increased the number of cows serviced. In 1988 Meryl was transferred to the Enosburg Falls area and along with his breeding job, he bought a 25-acre farm so he could continue with his love of Guernseys. A few Jerseys also joined the herd and even though this was a small farming operation, they managed to achieve many milk and butterfat production records. After several years of working with Eastern, Meryl became a breeding technician for Sire Power and later on, Select Sires. He worked with farmers for a total of 42 years assisting them in choosing appropriate bloodlines and genetics for their herd improvement. All the while he was managing Meca View farm that grew to some 65 head. With his young son helping with calf raising, feeding and fencing, the animals were a yearly feature in the Enosburg June Dairy Days parade and a regular presence at the Champlain Valley Exposition until 2002. In earlier years Meryl enjoyed making homemade bread and pickles, hand-crank ice cream after a day in the hay fields, and spending time in the garden"tending to his cherished rhubarb. He was a member of the Massachusetts 4-H Dairy Judging team, a delegate to the National 4-H Club Congress and served several years as a 4-H Dairy Club Leader in Hampshire County. He was also a member of the Southampton Grange and Farm Bureau in both states. Among Meryls favorite things were his love for old-time country music, RFD TV and any Louis lAmour or William Johnstone western novel he could get his hands on. Meryls love of animals was not limited to cows, there was never a barn cat and kittens that didnt get his full attention and placement in a good home. Meryl will be remembered for his humble and kind soul, his dry sense of humor and his willingness to go out of his way to help someone or adjust to a farmers milking schedule when a cow needed to be bred. Meryl is survived by his son Evan, his husband Kaleb, and grandson Eoin of Brighton, MA. along with his special dog Toby. Additionally, Meryl leaves his sisters, Christine of Silver Spring, MD., Lorena Thayer of Cummington, MA., and his brother Wayne of Montgomery, MA. and their families.

, formerly of Chazy, NY and Swanton, and most recently of South Burlington, passed away Monday morning, December 12, 2016, at the UVM Medical Center after a short illness. Ruth was born in Bronx, NY, March 3, 1926, the daughter of Arthur William and Mary Agnes (Farmer) Barber. The family split time between their home in Forest Hills Gardens and the family farm in Chazy, NY until the late 1930s, when Ruth, her sister Mary, and their mother settled in Glens Falls, NY after the death of her father. She was a graduate of Glens Falls High School and Boston University, having also attended Middlebury College and briefly done graduate work in English at the University of New Mexico. She also earned a Masters Degree in Counseling from SUNY-Plattsburgh. After graduating from BU, Ruth worked at WIRI in Plattsburgh, WLNH in Laconia, NH, and KOAT in Albuquerque, writing copy for the then live television ads. She then taught at the Edgewood Park Junior College, in New York, and Moravian College, in Pennsylvania. On October 4, 1958, she married Donald Thomas Toner, Sr., who predeceased her. The couple moved to Vermont to teach at Highgate High School - she taught English, typing, bookkeeping, and shorthand, while he taught math and science. When the school closed in 1971, Ruth moved to a new career working for the State of Vermont, first as an employment counselor in the Department of Employment Security and later as a social worker in the Department of Social and Rehabilitation Services. Eventually, her calling as an educator was too strong, and she returned to teaching business courses, first as a long-term substitute at Winooski and Plattsburgh (NY) high schools, and eventually at Peru (NY) High School, from which she retired in 1993 after twelve years of service. After retirement, she was active with local chapter of the Vermont Retired Teachers Association, the Kings Daughters, and the Order of the Eastern Star. She was also a member of the regional board of the Vermont Symphony Orchestra and a long-time volunteer at the Northwestern Medical Center. Ruth is survived by her son, D. Thomas Toner, Jr., of South Burlington, his wife Christina, and their children Max and Katya; and by her two nieces, Elizabeth Beck of Coconut Grove, FL, and Marillyn Earley and her family of Northborough, MA. The family wants to thank Dr. Marvin Klikunas for his compassionate care over many years, the staff of Pillsbury Manor South for their care over the past six months, and the doctors and nurses of the UVM Medical Center for their care over the last three weeks. Memorial gifts in her name may be sent to the Vermont Symphony Orchestra, 2 Church St., Burlington, VT 05401, or to any organization that cares for animals, either wild or domestic. A Funeral Service will be held Monday, December 19, 2016, at 11 a.m. from The Kidder Memorial Home, 89 Grand Avenue, Swanton. The Reverend Father J. Robert Spainhour Rector of Holy Trinity Episcopal Church in Swanton will officiate. The Rite of Committal and Interment will take place in the spring at the family lot in Riverview Cemetery in Chazy, New York. At the familys request there will be no public calling hours.

, age 70 passed away Monday December 12, 2016 at his home. Mo was born May 8, 1946 in Montgomery, a son of the late Maurice and Genevieve (Kidder) Hall. He attended Richford High School, graduating in the class of 1964. After high school, Mo traveled south to Virginia where he married and raised two sons, Mark and Mo III and two daughters, Yvonne and Nadine. He returned to Vermont in 1989 where he remarried and resided until his death. Mo began his working career in various positions from retailing to US Post Office, but his lifelong vocation was heavy construction. Mo was a superintendent with several construction companies in the South. He enjoyed most of all playing with the "big toys", a part of construction in which he was highly skilled. Mo will be remembered for his charismatic leadership ability in his work and the honesty, fairness, and sense of humor in his life. Mo is survived by his wife Marianne, his children, Yvonne Costello, Mo Hall and his wife Dawn, and Nadine Rinehart; 9 grandchildren: Eddie Hall, Holly and Robin Costello, Teddy Hall and his wife Paige, Krystal Harter and her husband Marcus, Andrew, Danielle, Sara, Joseph Rinehart; four great grandchildren, Blake Hall, Kylie Harter, Bellalee and Alaiah Perez; brother Greg Hall and his wife Rachel, niece Melissa Archambault. He is also survived by his step children: Todd Rogow and his wife Mila, Jennifer Edlund and her husband August and Maegan Garrett and her husband Matt; six grandchildren: Adriana and Alex Rogow, Eric, Charlie, and Dare Edlund and Madison Garrett. Mo was predeceased by his parents Maurice and Genevieve Hall, a sister "Gigi", and a son Mark. A memorial service will be held Saturday, December 17, 2016 at 11:00 AM at the Spears Funeral Home, 96 Dickinson Ave., Enosburg Falls. Visiting hours will be held, Friday from 4-7 Pm at the Spears Funeral Home in Enosburg Falls. For those who wish, contributions in Mos memory may be made to the Franklin County Animal Rescue, 30 Sunset Meadows, St. Albans, VT 05478.

, age 77, passed away Saturday morning, December 10, 2016 at Our Lady of the Meadows Community Care Home in Richford with her loving family and friends at her side. Kathy was born in Montgomery Village on June 21, 1939 the daughter of the late Thomas & Louise (Domina) McGrail Kathy was a 1957 graduate of Richford High School. Her working career was devoted to being a bookkeeper for Jay Peak for a brief period, A. Brown for 20 years and then along with her husband Gene ran their Sears business in Richford, eventually becoming Compare Appliance Store which combined, they operated together for 10 years retiring in 1993. She then became the bookkeeper for Ave Maria Community Care Homes in Richford for 18 years. She was a member of All Saints Catholic Church and the American Legion Auxiliary Post # 12 of Richford. She enjoyed sewing, gardening and spending time with her family. She is survived by her husband, Eugene Pynduss. Kathy & Gene were married November 14, 1981. She is also survived by her children, Mark S. Pynduss and his wife Barbara of Alburgh, Marceen A. Pynduss and her partner Nilda A. Farnham of Georgia, and Lucinda S. Szczesniak and her husband John of Schodack Ctr., NY; her grandchildren, Jamina Cook and her husband Michael, Jeffrey Pynduss and his wife Jennifer, Jon Pynduss and his wife Sarah, Camber Szczesniak and Kathleen Szczesniak; her great grandchildren, Annika & Calixte Cook, and Hannah & Annabelle Pynduss; her sisters-in-law and their families, Betty Heim and her husband Walter of Arizona and Penny Frederick of Washington Funeral services will be held Thursday, December 15, 2016 at 11:00 AM at All Saints Catholic Church 152 Main Street, Richford with Rev. Karl Hahr celebrating the Mass of Christian burial. Interment will follow in the Enosburgh Center Cemetery. A time of visitation will be held at All Saints Catholic Church on Thursday from 9:30 AM until the hour of the funeral. Kathys family wishes to thank the doctors, nurses and support staff at Northwestern Medical Center, NMC Palliative Care, Franklin County Home Health Agency, and Our Lady of the Meadows for the care, love and support shown to Kathy and her family through her illness. For those who wish, contributions in Kathys memory may be made to Our Lady of the Meadows - Resident Activity Fund, 1 Pinnacle Meadows, Richford, VT 05476 or to the Franklin County Animal Rescue, 30 Sunset Meadows, St. Albans, VT 05478.

, age 98 years, died late Thursday morning, December 8, 2016, at The Holiday House in St. Albans Town. Born in Swanton on, January 16, 1918, she was the daughter of the late William and Etta (Champagne) Mercier. She graduated in 1936 from the former St. Annes Academy and spent the rest of her life devoted to her families Grand Avenue Grocery Store. She was a faithful parishioner of The Church of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary and often attended daily Mass. She loved sports and was an avid New York Yankees fan. Besides her parents Eileen was predeceased by her brothers, Clyde, Herman and Lloyd Mercier. She leaves several nieces and nephews. The Liturgy of Christian Burial will be celebrated Friday, December 16, 2016, at 11 a.m. from The Church of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary, 65 Canada St., Swanton. Father Luke P. Austin will be the celebrant and homilist. The Rite of Committal and Interment will follow at the Mercier family lot in St. Marys Roman Catholic Cemetery. At Eileens request there will be no public calling hours. Eileen had requested that gifts in her memory be made to Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary-St. Louis Parish, 65 Canada St., Swanton 05488.