Cynthia J. (More) McCormick
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, 58, of Newport, and beloved wife of Eugene McCormick, died unexpectedly on April 13, 2017, at her home.
She was born on August 19, 1958, in Plainfield, New Jersey. She was the daughter of Charles More and Joan Seguine LeVine.
She married Eugene McCormick on Aug 10, 2012, and worked as the director of foreign rights for Sound True Publishing Company. She was the co-founder with her husband, Gene, of the Newport Vermont Jazz Festival, and former director of the Newport Renaissance Corporation. She taught skiing at the Killington and the Jay Peak Resorts, loved to play tennis, enjoyed bike riding, and yachting.
Besides her husband she is also survived by her father, Charles More and his wife, Penni, of Westport, Connecticut; her mother Joan LeVine and her husband, Newton, of Milford, New Jersey; her children: Lieutenant Colonel Raheem McCormick and his wife, Marshai, of Washington, D.C., Major Malikah Morgan and her husband, Jason, Paul McCormick and his wife, Eva, of Jacksonville, Florida, Ernest Eugene McCormick and his wife of Syracuse, New York; seven grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; and her siblings: Chris More and his wife, Lisa, of Wilmington, Delaware, Charles More of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and Mishegan More of New Jersey.
A funeral service will be announced at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be sent to the Suicide Prevention Walk.
Viola Mae (Young) Reil
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, 91, of Craftsbury died on April 7, 2017, at her home on the Creek Road.
She was born on December 24, 1925, in Craftsbury. She was the daughter of Fred and Josephine (Mason) Young.
She attended, and graduated from, Craftsbury Academy.
In March of 1947, she married Raymond Reil, who predeceased her.
She taught adult basic education for many years, and in her spare time she loved to paint pictures. She enjoyed art very much.
She is survived by her children: Albert “Pete” Reil and his wife, Monique, Eleanor “Suzie” Courchaine, Robert Reil and his wife, Tina, Patrick E. Reil and his wife, Terry; by 14 grandchildren; and 15 great-grandchildren.
Besides her husband, she was also predeceased by her son Patrick T. Reil; and her daughter Rae Ann (Reil) Loura.
A private graveside service will be held for the family on Wednesday, May 10, at 11 a.m. at the Wild Branch Cemetery in Craftsbury.
Carolyn Anderson Rowell
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, 82, of Albany, died on April 11, 2017, in Morrisville.
She was born on July 23, 1934, in Morrisville to the late Walter and Leona (Morey) Anderson.
She graduated valedictorian from Craftsbury Academy and went on to graduate from the University of Vermont. She taught at the North Troy High School in the 1950s and was a kindergarten teacher at the Albany school for several years. She left teaching in order to help run the family dairy farm. She was the happiest when she was working with the calves and planting flowers in her gardens.
On August 24, 1958, she married Phillip Rowell who predeceased her in January of 2013.
She is survived by her two sons, Jonathan “Tim” Rowell and his wife, Carol, and Joshua Rowell; and by two granddaughters: Gratia and Alora Rowell.
In addition to her parents and her husband, she was predeceased by her siblings: Elaine Anderson, Robert Anderson, Jan Anderson, Helen Anderson Bissell, and Esther Anderson Sweatt.
John Earl Sanville
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, 67, of Coventry, died suddenly on April 4, 2017, in Newport.
He was born on March 17, 1950, in Newport. He was the son of the late Adam and Dorothy (Mason) Sanville.
On September 11, 1976, he married Carol Essaff, who survives him.
He worked at Ethan Allen in Orleans for over 24 years.
Mr. Sanville enjoyed woodworking, photography, hunting, fishing, his computer, and his dog Missy, and especially loved all his grandchildren.
He is survived by his wife, Carol Sanville; his son Adam J. Sanville and his fiancé, Ashley Potwin; his grandchildren: Stormie, Taiya, and Julian Sanville; his sister Bonnie Sicard and her companion, Mike Wellboff; his nieces: Anita Lepine and Jennifer Sanville; his nephews: Clinton Mihill, and Joshua and Jeremy Sanville and all their families; and also by his wife’s side of the family.
The family also thanks his cousins Israel Sanville Sr. and Israel Sanville Jr., who survive him.
Besides his parents he was predeceased by his younger brother Tim A. Sanville; and his first daughter Ann Sanville, both of whom are interred next to the plot where he will be buried.
Graveside services will be held on Saturday, May 27, at 2 p.m., at the Newport Center Cemetery in Newport Center. Following the service, there will be a potluck celebration of life at the Coventry Community Center. All are welcome.
Donald M. Wheatley
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, 95, of Newport, formerly of Glover, died on April 7, 2017, at Bel-Aire Center in Newport.
He was born on February 26, 1922, in Rutland, to Ernest and Mary (Markolf) Wheatley, and grew up in Chester Depot. His wife, the former Carol Clark of Glover, predeceased him on May 25, 2012.
During his first semester of college at Northeastern University, war was declared and he enlisted in the U.S. Army Air Force. He served as a radio and high-speed code operator, mostly in North Africa, where his outfit worked with the British Armed Forces to drive the Germans out of that region. He was later stationed in Italy. He had many stories he loved to tell, some of which have been recorded recently in local publications. Proud of his military service, he actively participated in American Legion Post #76 for more than 30 years, before moving to Bel-Aire Center in 2012.
As a civilian, Mr. Wheatley worked for several radio stations in Vermont including WJOY in Burlington. While living in Burlington, he was set up on a blind date with University of Vermont student Carol Clark, whom he married in Glover on July 11, 1948. They moved briefly to St. Johnsbury with their young family before taking a leap of faith and moving to the Washington, D.C. area where he continued his career, working as a technical engineer for the Voice of America. His wife obtained her master’s degree at George Washington University and spent her career teaching in Arlington County Public Schools. They worked, raised their children, and were ordained deacons in the Greenbrier Baptist Church.
Retiring in 1984, they returned to Glover. They were members of the Glover Community Church, the 251 Club, and the American Legion. Mr. Wheatley served a term as justice of the peace in Glover and thoroughly enjoyed the responsibility of marrying couples. They enjoyed village life yearround and never saw any reason to head south for the winter. He was an avid vegetable gardener, known for his pepper relish. They traveled extensively during retirement, enjoying Windjammer cruises, trips abroad and, of course, they traveled to visit children and grandchildren. He was delighted to have visited all 251 towns in Vermont, all 50 states, and 27 foreign countries.
Mr. Wheatley was a ham radio operator throughout his life and used that technology to keep in contact with family and friends, and to meet people from all over the world. As time progressed and his ham radio contacts passed away, he was intrigued to learn how to use the computer. He was the first person who moved to Bel-Aire with an iPad, which he then used to listen to music, read his Bible and several daily newspapers, and keep in touch with family and friends.
He is survived by his children: Kathleen Wheatley and her husband, Steven McHenry, of San Diego, California, and Clark Wheatley of Miami, Florida; by his grandchildren: Sarah, Hansen and Loretta Traut, Hillary, Caitlin, Davis, Cameron, Margaret, and Jenna Wheatley; and by his great-grandchildren: Ariel, Hannah, and Addie Hansen, and Jack McKesson. He is also survived by his sister, Harriet Wheatley Riggs, of Richmond; by many nieces, nephews, and cousins; and by his special friend Evelyn Jenne of Newport.
A graveside service will be held on Friday, May 19, at 2 p.m., at the Westlook Cemetery in Glover, with the Reverend Evelyn Coupe officiating. Full military honors will be held. In lieu of flowers, should friends desire, contributions in his memory may be made to the Glover Historical Society, P.O. Box 208, Glover, Vermont 05839, or to the Glover Community Church, in care of Roland Woodard, P.O. Box 198, Glover, Vermont 05839.
Vivian W. Geoffroy
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, 97, of Albany, died on March 20,?2017, at the Union House in Glover.
She was born in Holland on June 20, 1919, the youngest of Hollis?W. and Gertrude F. Wheeler’s 21 children.
She married John B. Geoffroy on August 20, 1951. After they were?married, they established their home in Albany, where they raised?their family. Her interests included gardening, canning, embroidery, reading, and?word search puzzles. Her greatest pleasure was family gatherings. For many years, Mrs. Geoffroy wrote for the Newport Daily Express.
She is survived by her loving children: Ronald Geoffroy, Richard and?Debbie Geoffroy, David Geoffroy and his partner, Judy Thielman,?Joyce and Raymond Chase; by her nine grandchildren: Robert and Angela?Geoffroy, Andrea Phelps and her partner, Travis Bailey, Lynn and Josh?Michalak, Trish Geoffroy and her partner, Stephen Davenport, Amber?and Kyle Benson, Mary and Paul Trepanier, Katie Chase, Julie Chase,?Mykaela Chase and her partner, Dakota Aither; and by ten great-grandchildren.
She was predeceased by her son Peter A. Geoffroy in 1987; and?her husband, John B. Geoffroy, in 1991.
A graveside service will be held on Saturday, June 10, at 11 a.m., at the?Albany Village Cemetery in Albany.
Lawrence William Gray Jr.
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- It is with deeply saddened hearts that his family announces the death of Lawrence William Gray Jr., 53, known to his family and friends as “Charlie,” on March 6, 2017.
He was born on May 7, 1963, in Barre, and moved to Newport in 1976. He graduated from North Country Union High School in 1981, and worked at Fedele’s Market for a few years before moving to Phoenix, Arizona, to study drafting. Shortly afterward, he began working at Alliance Fire Protection, where he remained for the next 32 years.
He married his loving wife, Cecilia, on August 11, 2001 in Las Vegas, Nevada, and they made their home in Tempe, Arizona. He always appreciated a good beer, watching the Patriots win, and the company of family and friends. He loved going to concerts, somehow always getting great tickets to see some of his favorite bands over the years, especially Bob Seger. Mr. Gray was a loving husband, father, son, and brother. He had a gentle, caring soul and never hesitated to help someone out and lend a hand, never looking for anything in return. Whenever he came back to visit Vermont, his family knew the city life hadn’t changed him, and he was still the same ol’ Charlie. He will be dearly missed, and his family will carry his precious memory in their hearts forever.
Mr. Gray is predeceased by his brother, Randy. He is survived by his wife, Cecilia, and stepson, Steven, of Tempe; his mother, Gencie, of Richmond; his father Lawrence Gray and his wife, Pat, of Barre; by his siblings: Rick and his wife, Debby, of Duncan, South Carolina, Tammy of Richmond, Lori and her husband, Gaetan, of Simpsonville, South Carolina, Tim of Richmond, and Andy and his partner, Tammy, of Derby; as well as many cousins, nieces and nephews, and wonderful friends.
Funeral services were held in Mesa, Arizona, on March 13, and the family is planning a life celebration get-together in Newport this summer.
Leo R. Guyette
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, 86, of Newport, died peacefully with his family by his side at North Country Hospital on April 3, 2017.
He had been struggling with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease for many years and he could not fight it any longer.
He missed his wife, Joyce, for the past two years, and had as recently as April 1 said he was ready to see her again.
Mr. Guyette was born on August 9, 1930, in Montreal, Quebec, to Harland and Aline (Richie) Guyette. They lived in Lowell, Newport Center, and Newport while he was growing up. At 17 he joined the Army and served for eight years. He always wished he would have stayed in longer. He loved his country and the American flag.
Mr. Guyette loved to travel and got to see most of the United States with Mrs. Guyette. They loved the West and loved visiting family in Florida. He worked at many places in his life. Out west he worked at the Idaho Potato Plant, a pig farm, and as a mechanic. When he came back to Vermont he worked at Ethan Allen until he retired in 1997. His pride and joy was being the custodian at the United Church of Newport. He made sure things looked just right for funerals and weddings. He was pretty much the wedding planner for everyone there, making sure the girls walked down the isle at the correct time. He worked there until his was well into his 70s.??He is survived by his children: Lorine Hines, and her husband, Bob, of Dumfries, Virginia, Daniel Guyette and his wife, Stephanie, of Dumfries, Rene Guyette and his partner, Nicole, of Lancaster, New Hampshire, Keith Guyette and his wife, Ellen, of Sebring, Florida, and Ann Jones and her husband, Rusty, of Derby; by his stepchildren: Joann Guyette and her husband, Mark, Larry Davis, Fay Willis and her husband, Gary, Rita Johnson and Brent Hodgdon; by many grandchildren; great-grandchildren; and great-great-grandchildren; and nieces and nephews. He was also survived by his brother Roland Guyette and his wife, Sandra, of Vergennes, by Joyce Guyette’s sisters Marilyn Cassavant and her husband, Leo, of Island Pond, and Jean Webster of St. Johnsbury; by special friends of the family, Raymond and Patty Jones and their family, Linda Thayer, Ashley Shangraw, and Brian McNeal.
He was predeceased by his parents; his brother Arthur Guyette and his wife, Rosalie, and Joe Guyette; his sister Anita Forcier and her husband, Fernand; his brother-in-law Arthur Webster; daughter-in-law Barbara Davis and her husband, Larry; and by his wife, Joyce (Webster) Guyette.
Funeral services for Mr. Guyette were held on April 7, at the United Church of Newport, with the Reverend James Merriam officiating.
Contributions in his memory can be sent to the Cruzin’ for Cancer Motorcycle Ride-in for the Make-a-Wish Foundation. Please send donations to Kathie Duckless at 827 Lake Road, Newport, Vermont 05855.
Pamela Buckton Space
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, 90, died peacefully at Gracewood Senior Living in Lino Lakes, Minnesota, on February 24, 2017.
Born to English parents and raised at Villa La Roccia in Santa Margherita Ligure, Italy, she became a U.S. citizen after marrying her beloved David, a U.S. Naval officer. She moved 26 times with him during their 64 years of marriage, but resided in Lino Lakes since 1996. She was known for her kindness, generosity, and talents. She always smiled and gave sincere compliments to everyone she met in her delightful British accent. Over the years she volunteered at many charities and donated gallons of blood. She gave up her aspirations to be an opera singer to become a wife and mother, but continued to share her beautiful voice at her church and local venues. She spoke four languages, and was an accomplished pianist, painter, quilter, knitter, and gardener. She loved Jesus and her family, and had a passion for animals of every kind. She is mourned and missed by her husband, David Space; children: Lionel Space and his wife, Noel, Richard Space and his husband, William Larson, Merrily Space, and Diana Eckerberg; by her grandchildren: Austin Lossing, Sarina Keran and her husband, Matt, Arianna Lossing, Andrew Eckerberg, and Matthew Eckerberg; and great-grandson, Leo Keran.
A memorial service was held at the Rice Creek Covenant Church in Shoreview, Minnesota, on March 25. Attendees were encouraged to wear bright colors or Hawaiian prints
Jean Elizabeth Gardyne Webster
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, 92, died peacefully on March 14, 2017, at Parker Ridge Senior Living Community in Blue Hill, Maine, with family and friends at her side.
She was born at home on June 6, 1924, in North Troy, to Nellie Marion (Rice) and Harvey R. Gardyne, the third of four children. During the Depression, when her father was working steadily as supervisor at the Blair Veneer Mill, she watched as he passed on a few dollars to laid-off co-workers to tide them over and did not forget his quiet example.
She graduated from North Troy High School and then Green Mountain College in 1944, a campus with more women than men due to the war. After college, she headed off to the big city of Boston, and joined the post-war workforce. When she needed a ride home one Christmas, a friend gave her the number of another Boston area Vermonter heading north. That long car ride introduced her to Karl Webster, her future husband, who had grown up down the road in Orleans.
Mr. and Mrs. Webster started out their married life in a Spartan trailer in State College, Pennsylvania, where Mr. Webster was getting his master’s degree in mechanical engineering at Pennsylvania State University. They set up homes after that in Durham, New Hampshire, Wolfeboro, New Hampshire, York Harbor, Maine, and Orono, Maine, before retiring in 1990 to West Brooksville, Maine. She was a stay-at-home parent for many years before joining the University of Maine admissions office staff in Orono. Mr. and Mrs. Webster shared a love of sailing and wooden boats, and they spent many days cruising around Penobscot Bay on The Tuesday with their family and friends.
Mrs. Webster was forever grateful for the Works Progress Administration’s decision to build a tennis court in her small town of North Troy where she taught herself to play and began her lifelong passion for the game. Tennis (as well as cribbage, crosswords, and Scrabble) brought out her friendly but fierce competitive spirit. She organized years of tennis clinics at summer camps and town courts, and taught crowds of kids who loved her approach to learning the game. She was honored by Green Mountain College’s invitation to join the college’s athletic hall of fame, and she was so happy to watch her grandsons pick up rackets and continue “Gamma’s” legacy.
Mrs. Webster relished her Scottish heritage, from the poetry of Robert Burns to the sound of the pipes, and held wonderful memories of her trips to Scotland to visit her ancestral home of Gardyne near Arbroath with her daughters and later with Mr. Webster.
Mrs. Webster had type O blood, one of the universal donor types. Throughout her life she lived according to that philosophy, donating her time to help out in whatever way she could, usually behind the scenes. Her whole-hearted kindness, generosity, and counsel will be remembered by many.
She will be missed by her husband, Karl S. Webster Jr., of Laconia, New Hampshire; daughters Susan Webster and her husband, Bruce Fowler, of Portland, Maine, and Anne Webster, of San Luis Obispo, California; by grandsons Samson Fowler and Liam Fowler of Portland; by sisters-in-law Beryl, wife of late Bruz Gardyne, of Derby Line, and Barbara, wife of the late Bob Gardyne, of Derby Line; also by extended family Leslie and her husband, George Lochtie, of Enosburg Falls, Chuck Gardyne of Thetford Center, David Gardyne and his wife, Sandy, of Rutland, Bill Gardyne and his wife, Nancy, of Derby, Scott Gardyne and his wife, Cindy, Newport, Steve Gardyne and his wife, Jean, of Maple Glen, Pennsylvania, Bill Stufflebeam of Bradenton, Florida, Jim Stufflebeam and his wife, Denise, of Bradenton, Bob Gardyne and his wife, Marie, of Pinole, California, Annie Adams and her husband, Jack McDermott, of East Falmouth, Massachusetts, Lisa Adams of Mystic, Connecticut, Britton Adams of Mystic; and many grand-nieces, grand-nephews, and cousins. She was pre-deceased by her father and mother; her sister, Virginia Stufflebeam; and her brothers Harvey “Bruz” Gardyne Jr., and Robert Gardyne.
A celebration of life will be held in Blue Hill in the summer. As she requested, her ashes will reside at Pleasant View Cemetery in Orleans. To honor Mrs. Webster, people are asked to consider making a donation in her name to: Nichols Day Camp in Blue Hill, and/?or The Tree of Life Food Pantry in Blue Hill.
Gloria Rachel Whittemore
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, 77, of Glover, died peacefully on April 3, 2017, in Glover.
She was born on February 1, 1940, in Orleans, to Lionel and Rachel (Labounty) Duquette. On May 27, 1961, she married Wayne S. Whittemore who predeceased her on February 2, 2011. She graduated from Orleans High School in 1958.
Mrs. Whittemore was manager for A Cleaner Globe in St. Johnsbury. She and her late husband founded the B and W Snack Bar in Orleans with the Burns family.
She enjoyed teaching and making ceramics, antiquing, and playing basketball when she was in high school. She was a volunteer for the Rand Memorial Library in North Troy, and at the North Country Hospital Gift Shop. She was a member of the United Church of Christ in North Troy and she was a Girl Scout leader.
She is survived by her children: Lance Whittemore and his wife, Jane, of Powhatan, Virginia, Lisa Sullivan of Montgomery, and Laurie Grenon and her husband, Robert, of Westfield; by her two grandchildren: Halle and Sonja Grenon; her sisters-in-law: Nancy Duquette of Barton, and Louise Duquette of Irasburg; and by several nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by two brothers: Lewis and Roger Duquette.
Funeral services were held on April 7, at the Curtis-Britch-Converse-Rushford Funeral Home in Newport, officiated by the Reverend Timothy Naples. Interment will take place on Saturday, May 27, at 3 p.m., at the Irasburg Cemetery.
Should friends desire, contributions in her memory may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association of Vermont, 300 Corner Stone Drive, Suite 128, Williston, Vermont 05495.
Lorraine J. Choquette
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, 85, of Derby, died peacefully at her home on March 25, 2017, surrounded by her family.
She was born on June 19, 1931, in Lowell, a daughter of Archibald and Dezilda (Rouleau) Turgeon. On May 10, 1952, she married Jean Marie Choquette who predeceased her on February 18, 1998.
Family always came first. Lorraine made it a priority to host numerous gatherings no matter how large her family grew. Fond memories of good food and company are held by those who were dear to her.
She was employed by Columbia Forest Products for many years. Her retirement years were spent crafting, quilting, and knitting. She enjoyed spending time outside caring for her gardens. Mrs. Choquette was a hard-working woman who took pride in maintaining her independence.
She is survived by her children: Sue Barrup and her husband, Steve, of Newport Center, Tina Cochran and her husband, Richard, of Sanbornville, New Hampshire, Dennis Choquette and his wife, Kim, of Derby, Richard Choquette and his wife, Cindy, of Oceanside, California, and Anne Locke and her husband, Dan, of West Glover; by her grandchildren: Melissa Barrup, Gretchen and Jason Bedard, Catrin Cochran and her fiancé, Joey Pollimi, Matt and Brooke Choquette, Derek Choquette, Amanda and Adam Wells, Alyssa Choquette, Erin Choquette, Kaytlyn Oliver, Emma Downs, Brandon Locke, and Blair Locke; by her great-grandchildren: Khloee, Madalyn, Colby, and Gwendolyn; by her brothers: Gerald, Roger, Roland and Norman; by the rest of the Choquette family; numerous nieces and nephews; her neighbor and dear friend, Jane Hackett; and by her kitty, Peaches.
She was predeceased by her grandson Justin Cochran; her brothers: Bertrand, Raymond, Gilbert, and Donald; and her sisters: Bertha Cotnoir and Anita Fournier.
A Mass will be celebrated at St. Edward’s Catholic Church in Derby Line on Saturday, April 8, at 11 a.m. Interment will take place at a later date in St. Edward’s Cemetery in Derby Line. In lieu of flowers, the family request contributions be made in her memory to the Pope Memorial Frontier Animal Shelter, 502 Strawberry Acres, Newport, Vermont 05855, or online at www.frontieranimalsociety.com
Charles “ Charlie” H. Nadeau
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, 93, well-known businessman, of Coventry, died peacefully on March 27, 2017, in Newport. He was born on March 31, 1923, in Coventry to Charles and Valentine (Benjamin) Nadeau.
Mr. Nadeau served in the United States Army during World War II from December 1942 to December 1945, in Burma and China.
On January 14, 1964 he married Myrna Duckless who predeceased him on April 11, 2013.
He owned and operated Nadeau’s Auto Parts for many years, operated heavy equipment, and ran Nadeau’s landfill. He started the Can-Am Speedway.
He was a member of the American Legion Post #21 in Newport, the Elks Lodge #2155 where he was a charter member, the Eagles Club Fraternal Order #4329, and the VFW Post #798.
He is survived by his children: Kim Russell of Derby, Christina Nadeau and her husband, Floyd Kelley, of Derby, and Kerry Keement and her husband, John, of Coventry; by his grandchildren: Douglas and Tracy Russell, Jennifer and Joshua Bowen, Ryan Kelley and his wife, Angela, Deianaira Kelley and her fiancée, Nick Prive, Jessica Pierpont and her husband, Ralph, and Ashley Chambers and her husband, Zack; by his great-grandchildren: Connor, Madison, and Parker Russell, and Peyton and McKenzie Pierpont, Elizabeth Duranleau, and Avery Chambers; and by his brother Robert Nadeau and his wife, Priscilla, of Ipswich, Massachusetts; and by numerous nieces and nephews.
He was predeceased by his first wife, Alice Nadeau, in 1959; by his infant daughter Tracy Nadeau in 1965; by his brothers: Gaston, Andre, and Louis Nadeau; by his sisters: Mary Phillips, Georgette Parker, Luciene Conant, Francoise Brockelbank, and Madeleine Bissonnette; and by his son-in-law Brian Russell.
A Mass was celebrated on April 1, at St. Mary’s Star of the Sea Catholic Church in Newport.
Memorial contributions may be made in Charles’ name to the Disabled American Veterans: c/?o Heather Dowland, 1461 Whittier Road, Derby Line, VT 05830.
Esther A. Rounds
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Esther A. Rounds, 91, a resident of Maple Lane Nursing Home and formerly of the Norway and South Paris, Maine, area died on March 30, 2017, in Barton.
She was born in Minot, Maine, on November 4, 1925, a daughter of Lewis and Ola (Downs) Mixer. She attended school in Maine.
She married Winfred Lavern Rounds and was predeceased by him in 1978. She had six children, including Calvin, who predeceased her. She leaves five children: Roberta Garvey of Newport, Claude Rounds and his partner, Martha Vinning, of Weld, Maine, Claudette Edwards of Norway, Maine, Clayton Rounds of South Paris, Maine, and Claudia Rounds of Lakeland, Florida.
She is also survived by her grandchildren: Sean Wedge of Oklahoma, John Meader of Lakeland, Valerie Rounds, Michael Bereault, and Patrick Edwards, all of Norway, Maine, T.J. Edwards of Lewiston, Maine, and Leiza and her husband, Dave, of Lewiston.
She loved playing bingo, watching television, and talking to her teddy bears. She was a devoted friend and family member, mother and grandmother. She was predeceased by two brothers: Edwin and Lewis Mixer Jr. and by four sisters: Ethel Kelley, Dora Fogg, Marion Milligan, and Phillis Mixer.
She will be buried beside her husband in Mechanic Falls, Maine, at the Maple Grove Cemetery with a graveside service in the spring.
Sidney A. Toll
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, 79, amazing and devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother and friend, died peacefully in Bangor, Maine, on the morning of March 24, 2017.
Mr. Toll was born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, on February 18, 1938, to Morris and Tillie Toll. In 1956 he married his high school sweetheart, Joan (Brown), who predeceased him in 2009. Life for him was never the same after she died. Mr. and Mrs. Toll spent the early years of their marriage in North Carolina where he served in the U.S. Marine Corps. They later returned to Pennsylvania where they lived until 1972 when they moved to Vermont. He received his bachelor’s degree from Bishop’s University in 1981, after many years of hard work while also being a full-time dad and full-time employee. Mr. Toll worked for North Country Hospital for nearly 30 years, becoming its president and CEO in 1987. He was dedicated to recruiting and retaining doctors to serve the community, and led the hospital through an era of intense technological advancement and computerization, as well as many renovations and building projects. While he had high expectations of his employees, he cared sincerely about their welfare and their families. He retired a well-respected leader in 2002, and moved to Belfast, Maine, in 2015 to be near his family.
Mr. Toll had a deep faith in God which guided and strengthened him. He was active at the United Church of Newport and the First Church in Belfast. He had many interests, including boats, music, spending time with his family and friends, working in his shop, gardening, golfing, hunting, fishing, traveling, going to the movies, and volunteering in the community.
Besides his wife and parents, he was predeceased by his brother Alvin Toll; and his infant grandson, David Boynton. Surviving him, and seeking to live up to the ideals he taught them, are his daughters and their husbands: Joy Toll-Chandler and Paul Chandler, and Karen and John Boynton III; his grandsons and their families: John, Mindy, and Dexter Boynton, Adam and Kim Palmer and their soon-to-be born son, Brian Boynton and Crystal Lilley and Brayden, and Timothy Palmer and Jess Walley. He is also survived and missed by his brother Philip Toll and his wife, Kathleen; his sister-in-law Gladys Toll; many nieces, nephews, and cousins; and by special friend Susan Solman; and by a host of other friends.
Friends may call at the Curtis-Britch-Converse-Rushford Funeral Home on 4670 Darling Hill Road in Newport, from 5 to 7 p.m. on Thursday, April 20. A celebration of life will be held at the United Church of Newport, at 1 p.m. on Friday, April 21. A reception generously hosted by North Country Hospital will be held from 2:30 to 4:30 p.m. at the East Side Restaurant in Newport.
In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be sent to the scholarship fund he established 26 years ago through North Country Hospital’s annual golf tournament, which was recently named in honor of him: the Sidney A. Toll Scholarship Fund, North Country Hospital, attention: Development Office, 189 Prouty Drive, Newport, Vermont 05855. A plaque dedicated to him at his retirement reads, “Grateful to you for your compassionate leadership, careful stewardship, and thoughtful planning for the future.” Although those words describe his leadership at North Country Hospital, they also apply to his devotion to his family, his work in the community, and his service to his God. Mr. Toll exemplified the Marine Corps motto “Semper Fi,” — always faithful. Well done, faithful servant.
Todd Chaffee
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, 44, died on March 19, 2017, at his home in Westford.
He was born on April 15, 1972, in Newport, a son of Debra (Maskell) Chaffee and the late Clair Chaffee.
Mr. Chaffee attended primary school in Albany, junior high school at Craftsbury Academy in Craftsbury, and graduated from Lake Region Union High School in June of 1990. He loved to hunt, fish, shoot archery, and watch NASCAR. He loved his “four legged babies” — dogs Bailey and Bella — and above all else, he loved his children: Leah, Erin, and Eli. He worked for New England Air for 18 years, and thought of the employees as part of his extended family.
He is survived by his son Eli Chaffee; and twin daughters Leah and Erin Chaffee, all of Essex; the mother of his children ,Wendy (Barkman) Chaffee; his mother Debra Tallman of Alaska; a niece, Mollee Tollmann; brother-in-law, Chad Tollmann; several uncles and aunts: Tom and Rocky Chaffee of Albany, Sherm and Bev Chaffee of Barre, Steve and Julie Maskell of Eden, Calvin (Butch) Maskell of Albany, Dennis and Lisa Maskell of Hardwick, Candy Maskell of Craftsbury, and Penny Maskell of Craftsbury; and many cousins.
He was predeceased by his sister Jennifer Tollmann; his father, Clair Chaffee; and his grandparents: Irma and Lee Chaffee, and Calvin and Nadine Maskell.
Visiting hours were held on March 25, at A.W. Rich Funeral Home in Essex Junction. Interment will be private and at the convenience of the family. Memorial contributions in Mr. Chaffee’s memory may be made to benefit his children at Teresa Bazan, P.O. Box 9162, Essex, Vermont 05451.
Patrick E. Cochran
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, 70, died unexpectedly at his home in Derby on March 16, 2017.
Born on July 9, 1946, in Berkley, California, he was the son of L. Wayne Cochran and Mildred Cochran.
Patrick attended Peekskill Military Academy in Peekskill, New York. He was a member of the Vermont Army National Guard for over 20 years. He retired in 2006 as a captain.
Patrick dabbled in many jobs over his lifetime. His greatest love was being a dairy farmer. His most recent job was working for North Country Union High School as a bus driver. He loved the children and traveling to many sports events and field trips with them.
His survivors include his three daughters: Shannon McKenna and her husband, Luke, Tracy Davies and her husband, Eric, Cortney Jordan and her husband, Michael; one brother, Linden Cochran of Jersey City, New Jersey. He is also survived by his eight grandchildren: Shaylyn Russell, Jensen Spooner, Amelia McKenna, Dalton Davies, Claire Davies, Aspen Cochran, Jetta Cochran, and Nova Jordan. He also leaves behind his beloved dogs, Leibchen and Gus, who went everywhere with him.
Mr. Cochran was preceded in death by his parents.
A funeral service was held at the Wolcott Mennonite Church in Wolcott on March 25.
In lieu of flowers, donations to help defray funeral costs can be sent to Tracy Davies, 9 Maplewood Drive, South Burlington, Vermont 05403.
Antoinette “Toni” M. Fugere
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, 96, of Newport, died on March 24, 2017, in Newport.
She was born on December 3, 1920, in North Troy, to Hormidose and Jane (Gaucher) Leblanc. On June 16, 1951, she married Giles Fugere who predeceased her on January 13, 2015.
She was a member of St. Mary Star of the Sea Catholic Church of Newport and a former member of the Daughters of Isabella. She held membership with the American Legion Post #21 auxiliary of Newport. She and her late husband enjoyed their camp on Newark Pond, and traveling to several different states and overseas. She spent 13 years wintering to Florida.
She is survived by her daughter Denise Robillard and her husband, Bernard, of Irasburg; by her grandchildren: Irene Hughes and her husband, Chris, of Auburn, Maine, Martine Antell and her husband, Nicholas, of Waterbury, Patrick Robillard and his wife, Cara, of Weymouth, Massachusetts, and Phil Robillard and his wife, McKenzie, of Hudson Falls, New York; by her great-grandchildren: Cameron Hughes, Mason Antell, Nolan Hughes, and Hailey Antell. She is also survived by her brother George Leblanc of Barre; and by her sister Rita Viens of Rockford, Michigan; by her sisters-in-law: Juanita Fugere of Derby, and Agnes Brewer and her husband, Elwin, of Newport; and by several nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her brother Roland and her sister Alice.
Friends may call from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, May 13, at the Curtis-Britch-Converse-Rushford Funeral Home, 4670 Darling Hill Road, Newport, followed by a Mass to be celebrated at 11 a.m., at St. Mary Star of the Sea Catholic Church in Newport. Interment will follow in St. Mary’s Cemetery.
Should friends desire, contributions in her memory may be made to the American Heart Association, Vermont Affiliate, Inc., 434 Hurricane Lane, Williston, Vermont 05495.
Ralph F. Hamblett
....show , 87, of Elm Street, died October 1, 2017, at Weeks Medical Center, Lancaster.
, 71, of Derby died on March 25, 2017, at his home, surrounded by his family. He put up a courageous battle with lung cancer.
He was born on February 28, 1946, in Newport, to Tarlton and Jessie Hamblett. He graduated from the University of Minnesota in 1967 as a licensed funeral director. After college he was stationed at Fort Myers, Virginia, in the U.S. Army where he had the honor to serve in The Old Guard. After his service to the country, he worked at, and then bought into, the family business, Ralph F. Hamblett, Inc., located in Newport, which specialized in commercial rentals, and property sales. During his time there he helped start and run Hamblett Plumbing and Heating, The Emporium Ice Cream Shop on Main Street in Newport, and The Pick and Shovel hardware store in Newport. Later in his busy life he was able to work doing stained glass, operating a sawmill, maple sugaring, driving a dump truck, and he co-owned Foxwood Stables in Derby. Over the last 15 years, before retiring, he was a co-owner of the Farmyard Store and Taylor Rental in Derby with his son Nathan.
Mr. Hamblett had many hobbies and memories, such as racing at Can-Am Speedway, flying airplanes, spending time with friends and family on Lake Memphremagog, hunting and fishing at his camps in Norton and Holland, and riding his Harley to Sturgis with his sons.
He is survived by his sons: Marcus Hamblett and his wife, Erika, and their son Chase, and Nathan Hamblett and his wife, Tracy, and their sons: Jacob and Jesse; his brothers: Tim Hamblett and his wife, Beverly, and Michael Hamblett and his wife, Jackie; and four nephews.
If friends desire, contributions in his memory may be made to the Mary Wright Halo Foundation, 1073 Upper Quarry Road, Newport, Vermont 05855.
Huguette C. McA’Nulty-Black
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, 84, of Barton, died peacefully in her beloved home on March 20, 2017.
She was born on April 26, 1932, in Derby Line, to Lucien and Olive (Chainey) Desjardins. On May 21, 1955, she married Dr. James A. McA’Nulty who predeceased her on October 16, 2000. She later married Marcel Black who also predeceased her.
Mrs. McA’Nulty-Black was trained as a nurse, graduating from Holy Ghost Hospital in Cambridge, Massachusetts. She was an avid bridge player for 50-plus years and a member of many local bridge groups. She had accumulated many American Contract Bridge League (ACBL) master points over the years and was well on her way to becoming an ACBL Life Master.
She enjoyed gardening and was an award-winning rose cultivator with numerous blue ribbons presented at Orleans County events, such as the Barton Fair. She was passionate about antique collecting and refinishing furniture, and she loved to collect hats and wear them with flair, which was one of her trademarks.
She was a member of St. Paul’s Catholic Church in Barton.
She is survived by her children: Deborah Cianciulli and her husband, Paul, of Summit, New Jersey, Celeste Molnar and her husband, David, of Andover, New Jersey, Andrew McA’Nulty of Dracut, Massachusetts, Matthew McA’Nulty and his wife, Catherine, of Mons, Belgium, and James McA’Nulty of Vermont; by 11 grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; by her siblings: Roland Desjardins of Florida; Jeannette Auger of Glover; Paulette Lebrun of Florida, Mona Brosseau and her husband, Guy, of Florida, Mary Jane Denney and her husband, Geoff, of Ontario, Canada, Roger Desjardins and his wife, Barbara, of Florida, and Hubert Desjardins of Barton; by her 11 stepchildren with Marcel Black; and by several nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by two siblings: Emile Desjardins and Angeline Perrault.
A Mass was celebrated on March 28, at St. Paul’s Catholic Church in Barton, with the Reverend Timothy Naples officiating. Spring interment will take place at Welcome O. Brown Cemetery in Barton. Should friends desire, contributions in her memory may be made to St. Paul’s Catholic Church, 85 St. Paul Lane, Barton, Vermont 05822.
Roland Eddie “Pete” Robert
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, 86, of Derby, beloved husband of Andrea Robert, died March 21, 2017, at the Newport Health Care Center in Newport, surrounded by his family.
He was born on June 4, 1930, in Newport, the son of Paul and Odelle (Langlois) Robert.
Pete was a decorated paratrooper in the United States Army during the Korean War.
On August 14, 1952, he married Andrea Poutre. They met at a town hall dance in Newport, and were the belles of the ballroom. They were amazingly graceful and talented dance partners throughout the years.
Mr. Robert was a salesperson for Sanel Auto Parts for many years and retired in 1992. He held memberships with the American Legion Post #21 in Newport, where he was past commander, and the Newport Elks Lodge #2155. He was named Elk of the Year from 1985 to 1986.
Mr. Robert most enjoyed spending time with family and friends, dancing, fishing, hunting, snowmobiling, and playing bingo and cribbage.
He took great pride in his Abenaki heritage and relished reestablishing his roots through visits to Odanak, an Abenaki First Nations reserve in Quebec.
He is survived by his wife of 65 years Andrea Robert of Derby; daughters: Linda Stone and her husband, Rodney, of Irasburg, Carol Robert and her husband, Matthew McIntyre, of Enfield, New Hampshire; a son, Steven Robert and his wife, Denise, of Newport; a daughter-in-law, Brenda Robert, of Derby; several grandchildren and great-grandchildren; a brother, Lawrence Robert and his wife, Bea, of Huma, Arizona; sisters: Doris Bent and her husband, Norman, of Orleans, and Rachel Yeaton and her husband, Dean, of Plymouth, New Hampshire. Mr. Robert was predeceased by his beloved son Michael Robert in 2009.
Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. on Thursday, March 30, at St. Edward’s Catholic Church in Derby Line. Friends may gather at the Curtis-Britch-Converse-Rushford Funeral Home, 4670 Darling Hill Road, Newport, from 10 a.m. until the hour of the service.
In lieu of flowers contributions in Mr. Robert’s memory may be made to North Country Hospital Renal Dialysis, c/?o Wendy Franklin, 189 Prouty Drive, Newport, Vermont 05855.
Winona Orvis Yasko
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, 93, died March 23, 2017, at the Bel-Aire Center in Newport.
She was predeceased by her parents; her older sister, Lovina Orvis Baslow; and her husband, Michael A. Yasko, in 2001.
Survivors include her daughters: Michele Young and her life partner, Karl L. Mol, of Huntington, West Virginia, and Carolyn Marie Schwebel and her spouse, John, of Leonardo, New Jersey; and her younger sister Patricia Orvis of Brooklyn, New York.
She was born in Cornwall, on August 7, 1923, to Ralph F. Orvis and Agnes Wright Orvis. She spent her teenage years in the Jerusalem and Bristol areas of Addison County.
The Yaskos were married on October 10, 1942, in Bristol. During their nearly 60-year marriage, Mr. and Mrs. Yasko lived in a number of locations in Vermont, including St. Johnsbury, Barton, Bristol, and Bellows Falls. In their later years they and their Dalmatian, Daisy, became snowbirds at their winter home in Port Charlotte, Florida.
Mrs. Yasko was very active in community, school — including as a PTA president and class mother — and political affairs all of her life. She was an advocate for children and the elderly in Vermont and the Greater New England areas. She advocated for her disabled daughter. When a librarian would only allow her daughters to use books from the children’s room, Mrs. Yasko, who loved reading as did her daughters, made it very clear that her children could read any book they wanted to. (And they did, taking out the maximum five books at a time.)
A dark-haired beauty with brilliant blue eyes, Mrs. Yasko was an impassioned, independent woman from her early years. When she let it be known that her first votes would be given to Democratic, not Republican, candidates, her parents refused to give her a ride to town. She persisted and had to walk a long way down through the woods to cast her ballots.
She was above all a mother, who taught her daughters how to make her wonderful baked goods, including chocolate chip cookies, blueberry muffins, banana bread, and apple pies. She helped her daughters learn to sew, and made matching mother-daughter blue taffeta dresses, small pieces of which her now senior citizen daughters still treasure.
She loved the many family cats and dogs and always allowed and encouraged their presence.
She had many jobs, including seamstress at a Van Raalte factory, where she was not always appreciated because her speed forced others on the line to keep up. She was a secretary for Governor Lee Emerson, a cashier at the Barton A&P, and sold Avon products, often coming home with freezing legs from walking to make deliveries. She later served as a school nurse at a correctional school for teens and at the high school in Bristol.
Mrs. Yasko often challenged what she saw as injustices in her workplace and other situations, a dominant trait that she instilled in her children.
After her girls were in high school, she returned to nurse’s training, which she had had to leave after her marriage to Mr. Yasko — a tall, dark, and handsome soldier from Pennsylvania whom she had met in a soda fountain in Burlington.
Through her professional education, she became a registered nurse from the Medical Center Hospital School of Nursing, she earned a bachelor’s degree in nursing from the University of Vermont, and received a pediatric nurse practitioner certification from Northeastern University in Boston, Massachusetts. She also trained at the Children’s Hospital in Philadelphia Pennsylvania, where younger fellow students saw her as a big sister.
Mrs. Yasko’s main pride involved her nursing identity. On family drives it was not unusual when an accident was seen for her to attempt to help, crying, “I’m a nurse, I’m a nurse!”
An avid swimmer, for several years she ran the food concession at Crystal Lake State Beach, providing a lovely summer of swimming and selling experience for her daughters at young ages.
Winona Orvis Yasko was a force of nature. You may have seen her driving quickly around a corner on the wrong side of a curvy road. She could be loving or resentful, as a middle child, saying, “I get the neck of the chicken!”
To quote from another obituary, “She could simultaneously be ornery and have a mischievous twinkle in her eye. Her family is so sad to lose her. She made them smile and laugh. She infuriated them. She inspired them. She made them crazy. She loved them, and they loved her.”
She chose to donate her body to a medical school for the instruction of medical students.
Her remains will then be cremated and spread over Crystal Lake in Barton, the site of her summer home for many years.
She requested no flowers, but donations in her name to organizations of your choice, especially those that support pets, would be appreciated. To share remembrances, feel free to send them to cs@equalizers.org.
Henry L. Young
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, 88, of Craftsbury, died peacefully early Saturday, March 25, 2017, at home under the watchful eye of his family. He had been courageously battling cancer.
Mr. Young was born May 20, 1928, in Denver, Colorado, the son of the late Henry A. and Bessie (Taylor) Young. He graduated from Craftsbury Academy in 1946. Upon graduation he had his own trucking business. He was a farmer, carpenter, a building trades teacher at Lamoille Union High School in Hyde Park, and worked in bridge construction for Beck and Bellucci until he retired at the age of 77. One of his pride and joys was working on the Rouses Point, New York, bridge that crosses Lake Champlain. He was a volunteer fireman for many years and one of the oldest members of the Masonic Meridian Sun Lodge #20. He was also involved with Operation Friendship, chaperoning groups to England and Sweden. Mr. Young enjoyed his retirement by spending time at the family camp on Eden Lake, going to their winter home in Florida, gardening, mowing his lawn, and spending time with his family and friends.
He is survived by his wife of 66 years, Jeanne (Fortune); his children: Cynthia Atkins, Valerie Pecor and her partner, Ron Leclair, Kent Young and his wife, Donna, Dawn Charlton and her husband, Craig, and Lisa Cook. He was a loving grandfather of Justin and his wife, Melissa, Adam and his partner, Dani, Kyle and his wife, Katherine, Josh and his wife, Bri, Elizabeth and her husband, David, Taylor, Eric, and Brian; and five great-grandchildren. He is survived by his brothers: Robert, Clair and his wife, Diane, and Joseph and his wife, Jeannine; and sister-in-law Madeline “Sugar” Young. Besides his parents, he was predeceased by his brothers: Frank and Fred; and his sister-in-law Priscilla Young.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be sent to Orleans Essex VNA and Hospice, Inc., 46 Lakemont Road, Newport, Vermont 05855, or to the United Church of Craftsbury, 7 Church Lane, Craftsbury, Vermont 05826.
Funeral services will be held at the United Church of Craftsbury in Craftsbury Common on Saturday, April 1, at 2 p.m. Per the family’s request there will be no calling hours. Refreshments will be provided after the service.
Gerald L. “Jerry” Currier
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, 72, of Newport died on March 14, 2017, in Newport.
He was born on October 25, 1944, in Newport to Lance and Marguerite (Ellsworth) Currier. He was a veteran of the Vietnam War.
He married Bettyanne Hanson who predeceased him. Mr. Currier was a sales clerk for the Pick and Shovel in Newport for many years. He was a member of the American Legion Post #21 in Newport. He was an artist in pencil drawing, primarily of birds. He enjoyed playing bingo, hunting, fishing, going for walks in the woods, and taking rides on back country roads.
He is survived by his son Mark and his companion, Erica Emmons; by his siblings: Janice Blais, Allen Currier and his wife, Lynn, Robert Currier and his wife, Denise, Brian Currier and his wife, Claudine, Michael Currier and his wife, Lisa, and Loren Currier; and by several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his sister and brothers: Nancy Percy, Donald Currier, Bruce Currier, Timothy Currier and Thomas Currier.
Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. on Saturday, March 25, at the Curtis-Britch-Converse-Rushford Funeral Home, 37 Lake Road, Newport. Friends may call at the funeral home on Saturday from 1 p.m. until the hour of the funeral. Should friends desire, contributions in his memory may be made to the Mary Wright Halo Foundation, 1073 Upper Quarry Road, Newport, Vermont 05855
Paul H. Gavin
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, 81, of East Charleston, lived a brilliant life of benevolence, serenity, sensitivity, and industriousness. Mr. Gavin died on January 17, 2017, in Durham North Carolina, after a brief illness, with his family by his side.
He was born in Wettingen, Switzerland on June 7, 1935, the son of Henri Louis Gavin, and Violette Gavin (nee Clerc). He grew up in Yverdon, on the Lac de Neuchatel, north of Lac Leman (Lake Geneva). His father, an electric-power engineer, electrified the Yverdon-St. Croix railroad. His mother was a teacher of French, history, and geography. As a child he strived at the violin and in his early teen years played with friends in small string ensembles at his home. At the age of 18 he moved with his mother and his two brothers, Jean-Louis and Pierre, to the town of Pully, near Lausanne, where he continued his study of violin and taught himself enough electronics to design and build a vacuum-tube radio and transistor amplifier. He earned his undergraduate degree in electrical engineering on June 27, 1959, with a certificate in atomic engineering on July 16, 1960, and his doctorate in nuclear reactor engineering on November 7, 1968, from the Ecole Polytechnique de l’Universite de Lausanne. While a member of the choir of the Cathedrale de Lausanne, he met Eleanor Ingram of Hingham Massachusetts, an alto in the choir, who was in Lausanne to study nursing at La Source. Charles Dutoit, the conductor of the choir at that time, introduced them on the Pont Bessiers — truly a fairy-tale start to their relationship. They were married at The Scots Kirk, Lausanne, on May 18, 1963. They moved to Simsbury, Connecticut, in 1966, and Mr. Gavin began his 32-year career of service to Combustion Engineering, Windsor Locks.
He analyzed and designed reactor refueling processes for combustion engineering power plants. He gave technical seminars on the subtleties of this process in the U.S. and in South Korea. His analyses of the technical aspects of nuclear reactor physics and his technical guides remain in use today. The engineers he mentored respected him enormously. One recently noted, “If it was a tough problem, it was assigned to Paul.” Mr. Gavin was recognized in 1979 with a professional service award for his contributions to the start-up of the Calvert Cliffs nuclear power plant. His understanding of reactor physics and the legacy of nuclear power led him to support Mrs. Gavin in a successful grass-roots campaign to retire plants that had passed the end of their original design life.
He refined his talents in drawing, precise communication, music, carpentry, and cabinetry by embarking on projects of increasing complexity throughout his life. He designed and built wooden toys, puzzles, and playhouses for his sons and grandchildren. He designed and built home additions and fine cabinetry for his family. His inclination toward original designs and his success in creating things with precision inspired his sons to embark on ambitious projects. He became fascinated by the possibilities of designing sundials to indicate the time of day and the day of the year for any point on the globe. In the 1980s he and his family designed and built a home on Echo Lake in East Charleston. The Gavins retired there in 2002, and in his last years in Vermont, he hand-built a beautiful violin, with which he performed.
Mr. Gavin felt music deeply. His mother was an accomplished pianist and his parents sang in choirs at Yverdon and Lausanne. He played violin with many ensembles, including numerous groups of friends, the Connecticut String Orchestra, the Simsbury Light Opera with his son Marc, and most recently for the Newport Area Community Orchestra. He encouraged and supported musical interests in his sons from their childhood to adulthood.
He served his communities with skill, wisdom, and generosity. In Simsbury, he and Mrs. Gavin welcomed Laotian refugees and international students to live in their home. They were active members of the Simsbury United Methodist Church and the First Unitarian Church of Hartford. In Vermont, the Gavins served on the boards of the NorthWoods Stewardship Center and the First Universalist Parish of Derby Line. Members of his church remember him as “one of the pillars upon which our church stood for the past couple of decades,” both “doing things in his quiet way” and leading many special projects. His co-workers from Windsor remarked that he was wise, equally skilled in theory and real-world problems, professional, modest, and human. These comments resonate with his family, for whom he leaves memories of simplicity, modesty, warmth, gentleness, and great courage.
He is survived by his wife, Eleanor (Ingram) Gavin of East Charleston; two brothers: Jean-Louis of Coppet, Switzerland, and Pierre of Pully Switzerland; three sons: Henri of Durham, North Carolina, Marc of Seattle, Washington, and Daniel of Eugene, Oregon; and five grandchildren: Benjamin, Eric, Meredith, Ingrith-Rose, and Leo.
A memorial service is planned for July 1 at the First Universalist Parish of Derby Line.
Daphny Murray Meagher
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, 69, of Derby died unexpectedly on March 11, 2017.
She was born on May 20, 1947, in Springfield. She graduated from Richmond High School in 1965, and attended Lyndon State College. She worked as a unit secretary at the Medical Center Hospital of Vermont where she also served as the first poison control operator. She was a consultant with Mary Kay Cosmetics for 25 years. Mary Kay was her passion and inspiration. Mrs. Meagher was an avid singer and former member of Harmony Incorporated. She sang for a number of years with the Champlain Echoes and then the Georgia Peaches.
She married Russell Meagher on March 17, 1998. They resided in Lawrenceville, Georgia from 1993 until March 2016. While in Georgia, she worked at Emory University Hospital and Gwinnett Medical Center before semi-retiring to be a fulltime Mary Kay consultant. In March of 2016 they said goodbye to “Georgia” but it would always be “on their minds.” Mr. and Mrs. Meagher returned home to where the “Moonlight in Vermont” was calling them to be closer to family. She was an amazing caregiver for her husband, Russell, who suffers from a rare neurological disease called progressive supranuclear palsy.
Mrs. Meagher is survived by her husband; her son Patrick Martell and his wife, Denise; her daughter Jennifer (Martell) Hemsted and her husband, John; grandchildren Dale Martell and his fiancé, Morgan Oeschger, Elizabeth Martell, Dylan and Emily Hemsted; sisters Peggy Shadel and her husband, Derrick, Veronica Cassetta and her husband, Greg; cousin Martha Teer and her husband, Phil; aunts Betty Stanley and Peggy Pratt; stepsons Jeremy Meagher, and James Meagher, and his wife Rebecca, and their daughter Finley; nephews Timothy and Andrew Shadel; and niece Kara Shadel Muri. She is also survived by her beloved kitties Murray and Fiona. She was predeceased by her father, Stephen Murray, and her mother, Dorothy Conant.
A memorial service will be held on Friday, March 31, at St. Mark’s Episcopal Church, 44 Second Street, in Newport at 1 p.m., with a burial to be determined in the spring. In lieu of flowers, donations would be gratefully appreciated for continued respite care of her beloved husband, Russell. Please make checks payable to CurePSP and mail to Diane Seegull, CurePSP, 30 Padonia Road #201, Timonium, Maryland 21093. Indicate on the check, “Cherie Levien Fund,” or direct donations to https://?www.psp.org/?cherie-levien-quality-life-legacy-fund/.
Joanne B. Nolin
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, 68, of Derby, died suddenly on March 13, 2017, as the result of an automobile accident.
She was born on February 9, 1949, the eldest daughter of Clarence and Domina (Balich) Nolin. She graduated from Sacred Heart High School in 1967 and Johnson State College in 1971.
Ms. Nolin taught at Canaan Elementary School for two years before returning to Newport to raise her children. Her son Christopher was born in 1976 and her daughter Laura in 1980. She devoted her life to raising her children.
Ms. Nolin worked in the daycare field and operated a daycare center in her home before teaching religion for several years at Sacred Heart School in Newport until it closed. She loved teaching children about the Catholic faith that meant so much to her and loved sharing her faith with them. Her love of her children led her to work at St. Edward’s Preschool in Derby Line until her health forced her to retire. She was a former member of the Daughters of Isabella and a very active member of Mater Dei Parish in Newport.
Ms. Nolin enjoyed reading, watching Jeopardy! on TV, and was an avid Boston Red Sox fan. Most of all, she loved her family. She was a very loving and caring mother and grandmother whose life revolved around her children, grandchildren and her Catholic faith. Her deep faith and love of the Lord strengthened her during the difficult times of her life.
Ms. Nolin is survived by her daughter, Sister Laura Fidelis Nolin of the Daughters of St. Paul in Alexandria, Virginia; and her son Christopher Nolin, and his wife, Nancie; and by her beloved grandchildren: Elias, Nathalie, Micah, and Cecilia Nolin, all of Conroe, Texas. She is also survived by two sisters: Mary Nolin of Derby, and Patricia Nolin of Reston, Virginia. In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by several aunts, uncles, and cousins.
A Mass was celebrated at St. Mary Star of the Sea Catholic Church in Newport on March 21. Spring interment will be in St. Mary’s Cemetery in Newport.
Should friends desire, contributions in her memory may be made to Mater Dei Parish, 191 Clermont Circle, Newport, Vermont 05855, or to the Daughters of St. Paul, 50 St. Paul’s Avenue, Boston, Massachusetts 02130.
Dale F. Pierce
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, 78, of Barton, died on March 13, 2017, at the UVM Medical Center in Burlington.
Mr. Pierce was born on December 13, 1938, in St. Johnsbury. He was one of four children born to the late Frank and Marion (Miltimore) Pierce.
He was a veteran of the Korean War. On December 31, 1961, he married Marguerite Hardie, who predeceased him on May 28, 2005.
He loved fishing, hunting, woodworking, drawing, and spending time with his family.
He is survived by his children: Pamela Stevens and her husband, Jeffrey, of Barton, Kimberly Gosley of Barton, Teresa Diette and her husband, Peter, of Barton, Ritchie Pierce and his wife, Sue, of Barton, Christine Martin and her husband, David, of Island Pond, and Katherine Jacobs of Colchester. He is also survived by his grandchildren: Travis and his wife, Julie, Robbi and her husband, Kenny, Tyler, Corey, Kristen, Taylor, Derek, Nicholas and his wife, Nichole, Devon, and Abigail; by his great grandchildren: Danica, Riley, Cooper, Cale, Kallie, and Ellie; by his sister Pearl Marko; his special companion, Gloria White; and by many nieces and nephews.
He was predeceased by his wife; his brother Donald Pierce; his sister Elva Fisher; by his son-in-law Alan Jacobs; and by his grandson, Brandon.
Per request of the family there will be no public services at this time. A celebration of life will be announced at a later date.
Should friends desire, memorial contributions may be made in memory of Mr. Pierce to the Dale and Marguerite Pierce Granite Bench Fund: In care of Kimberly Gosley, P.O. Box 225, Barton, Vermont 05822.
Lawrence “Larry” Scarpa
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, 86, of Barton, died on March 14, 2017, surrounded by his family.
Born and raised in Newfield, New Jersey, he moved to Vermont in 1997.
Mr. Scarpa is survived by his wife, Mary (Campbell) Scarpa, also of Barton; his children: Mary Alimenti of East Vineland, New Jersey, Lori Petronglo of Pittsgrove, New Jersey, Vicki Lolli, of Minotola, New Jersey, Lorraine Phillips, of Wildwood Crest, New Jersey, and Lawrence Scarpa of Clayton, New Jersey; his sister Annette Charlton; 15 grandchildren; and 13 great grandchildren. He was predeceased by a daughter, Kandi Grieser; and by his sisters Sarah Van Hook, and Lorraine Blackshear, all of New Jersey.
Mr. Scarpa was an accomplished man in many areas and well known for his strong opinions. His first love was cooking. No meal was too much of a challenge, he absolutely loved to bring people together through the art of cooking. He was an avid fisherman, no matter if it was on the ocean or ice fishing, he would be there. He was a successful electrical contractor, and for some time, a distributor of Smith and Wesson police equipment. Later on in life he became an accomplished wood carver and was a lifelong ham radio operator; his call sign was K1ON. He was a member of CW Operators Club and Straight Key Century Club. In his youth he served in the U.S. Coast Guard and later in life belonged to the American Legion Post #76 in Barton. Mr. Scarpa was a deputy game warden for more than 20 years, a volunteer position, with the New Jersey Department of Fish, Game and Wildlife. He enjoyed his vegetable garden and was a gifted storyteller. He helped to found of the Newfield Ambulance Corps in Newfield. He loved to paint, and technology was something he excelled in. Selftaught, he was building computers in the ’80s when they were still in the infant stage. Needless to say, he was a man of many talents with a plethora of interests and was highly respected. What he loved the most though, were the holiday parties on Christmas Eve and July Fourth with his family — they were the highlight of his year. He will most definitely be missed by his family and friends.
Services were held at Luisi-Demarco Funeral Home in Vineland, New Jersey, on March 19. In lieu of flowers, the family asks for donations to Pope Memorial Frontier Animal Shelter, 4473 Barton Orleans Road, Orleans, Vermont 05860.
Lewis Sheltra
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, 93, of Barton, died on February 14, 2017, at the home of his daughter Colleen. He was with Colleen, and his priest, Father Timothy Naples, was giving him his last rites of passage.
He was born in Westfield, the son of Julius and Emily (Shover) Sheltra, on April 24, 1923.
He served his country in World War II in the Air Force, as a member of the Flying Tigers in the Pacific, China, Burma, India. He helped build the Burma Road. He married Bertha Lafoe in 1947. They had two daughters: Patricia and Colleen.
Mr. Sheltra worked on several construction jobs including the Moore Dam, and the work over the Quechee Gorge in Woodstock. He worked some winters at the Black River Mill in Irasburg where they lived until 2005 when they moved to an apartment in Barton. He worked for Munson Earth Moving, Inc. until retirement.
He operated the Citgo Garage in Lowell for a few years. Mr. Sheltra was a lifetime member of the VFW Post #798, where he was the commander for several years. He was a member of the Newport Legion where he played tournament darts for about 35 years.
He and his wife spent many years at dances at venues such as Buzzie’s in Westfield, Warner’s Dance Hall in Lowell, and then Paul’s Sugarhouse in Derby.
Mr. Sheltra enjoyed going to The Meeting Place in Newport, spending time with friends.
Surviving Mr. Sheltra are his daughter Colleen Belanger and her husband, Charles, of Sutton; grandson Peter Belanger and his son Andrew of Sutton; his grandson Claude Poitras and his son Jason, and Jason’s twin sons, of Maine; his granddaughter Sheila Poitras and her daughters Vanessa and Rebeckah, and son Travis Kohl of Connecticut. He is also survived by Vanessa’s two sons; and Rebeckah’s daughter; and Travis’ daughter; and by many cousins, nieces, and nephews.
He was predeceased by his mother and father, and by all 13 of his siblings; his wife Bertha in 2008; and daughter Patricia (Sheltra) Poitras Twombly in 1998.
There will be no visiting hours at this time but in July there will be a committal service at the St. Ignatius Cemetery in Lowell. Contributions in his name may be sent to The Meeting Place in Newport
Robert J. Wheeler
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, 85, died on March 12, 2017, in Orange Park, Florida.
He was born on June 26, 1931 to parents Julian T. Wheeler and Evelyn E. (LeClair) Wheeler in Mt. Kisco, New York. Mr. Wheeler was a longtime resident of Holland and Derby before moving to Florida in the fall of 1987.
He served his country honorably in the United States Army during the Korean War and was a Navy Reservist, retired. He was a master plumber for the state of Florida and retired in 2002.
Mr. Wheeler was a handyman and could fix about anything he put his hands on. He could turn trash into treasure.
He married Teresa M. Choiniere on June 9, 1951. They had three children: Richard, Kathy, and Bruce.
Mr. Wheeler volunteered for the Red Cross at the Jacksonville, Florida, naval hospital as a shuttle driver. This was something he loved to do — talking to people who were never strangers, but immediate friends. He enjoyed fishing and the outdoors. Though he never missed those Vermont winters, he and Teresa enjoyed going back for the summers. He was a member of the Loyal Order of Moose in Orange Park, a member of the Elk’s Lodge in Derby, and a member of the VFW. He participated in the annual Mayor’s Walk in Jacksonville for many years.
Mr. and Mrs. Wheeler moved into the Moosehaven retirement community in Orange Park, on February 15, 2017. He was only present there for a short time, but he made a lasting impression with his new neighbors. He was an unsung hero who gave up everything for the love of his life, Teresa. He showed his family, as well as the staff and residents of Moosehaven, the true meaning of unconditional love, caring about the happiness of others without any thoughts of himself.
Mr. Wheeler was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Lucille Flynn, of Vermont. He is survived by his loving wife of 65 years, Teresa Wheeler; his son Richard A. Wheeler and his wife, Suzie, of Newport; his daughter Kathy W. Boyles and her husband, Richard, of Edgewater, Florida; his son Bruce J. Wheeler and his wife, Cory, of Kingsland, Georgia; by five grandchildren and their spouses; and by one great-grandchild.
Funeral services were held on March 17 in the Moosehaven Chapel with military honors by the United States Navy. The Reverend Helen Taylor officiated. Interment of his ashes will be at a later date in Jacksonville National Cemetery.
Rock N. Desroches
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, 67, died in Winter Haven, Florida, on March 8, 2017.
He was born December 18, 1949, in Granby, Quebec, to Raymond and Cecile Desroches.
In 1957 the family moved to North Troy. In 1973, Mr. Desroches married the late Suzanne Quirion who predeceased him in 1998. They had two children together, Alan and Nicole. In the spring of 2002, Mr. Desroches was naturalized and was proud of becoming a U.S. citizen. In 2003, he married Judy Judd Royer who survives him, as does her daughter Jessica, who Mr. Desroches treated like his own daughter.
He was a man of many talents. Whether it was working on vehicles, snow machines, tractors, chainsaws, building homes, cutting trees, planting gardens, or landscaping, he would give it a try. He would try to do any kinds of repairs himself before calling in a professional. Most of the time it worked out for him. If anyone had a project going on, Mr. Desroches would show up out of the blue, with his signature “C-gar” in his mouth, ready to lend a hand for the day. Whenever he was around people knew it. Despite his illness, Mr. Desroches was always able to make others laugh and always had a big smile on his face along with his big bushy mustache.
Mr. Desroches started as a farmer, then became a carpenter. Later, he spent most of his working career as a truck driver — first doing long haul trucking for Burkewitz Transport, then local driving for Barrup Farms.
Upon retirement, Mr. and Mrs. Desroches started spending winters in Florida and summers in Vermont. They loved traveling between the two states. Even though Mr. Desroches was retired, he just could not get the truck driver out of him. He usually made the trip in just two days, instead of taking his time to enjoy the scenery, which drove his family crazy. He would just laugh, and in return, it made them laugh, too.
Mr. Desroches is survived by his son Alan and his wife, Lisa, and their three children: Nathaniel and Natashia Brooks, and Julia Desroches; by his daughter Nicole Brewer and her husband, Jim, and their three children: Benjamin, Levi, and Alexis; by his stepdaughter Jessica Farrar and her husband, Jared, and their two children: Kadin and Kiley. He is also survived by his sisters Raymonde Mayhew, and Jocelyne Gage and her husband, Terry. He is survived by many wonderful brothers- and sisters-in-law; nieces; nephews; and their families.
He was predeceased by his parents; his first wife; and three brothers: infant Jacques, Gilles, and Jean-Pierre Desroches; and by several in-laws he always cherished.
A Catholic burial and celebration of his life will be arranged at a later date at the convenience of the family. In lieu of flowers, please make contributions in his memory to the Ron Holland Dialysis Center at North Country Hospital in Newport.
Interment will take place at St. Theresa’s Catholic Cemetery in Orleans.
Urban A. Flynn Jr.
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, 73, of Derby, died on March 5, 2017, in Lebanon, New Hampshire.
He was born on September 13, 1943, in Newport to Urban Sr. and Louise (Rollins) Flynn. On July 4, 1996, he married Jane Royer who survives him. He was a veteran of the U.S. Navy.
He was employed for the Orleans County Sheriff’s Department before retiring after 23 years. Mr. Flynn was a member of the Newport American Legion, North Country Swingers, Derby Alumni Association, and a supporter of the American Red Cross where he had donated many gallons of blood. He enjoyed officiating at basketball and softball games as a referee and umpire. He loved going to camp deer hunting, fishing, card playing, and especially square dancing. He and Mrs. Flynn traveled to many different states. He also enjoyed gardening much to Mrs. Flynn’s delight because then she didn’t have to. He was also a danger to the neighborhood with his chainsaw in his hands.
He is survived by his wife, Jane, of Derby; by his children: Shawn Flynn and his wife, Anne, Sara Holst and her husband, Jim, Scott Flynn and his wife, Heidi, Paula Pollander and her husband, Peter, and Peter Mason and his wife, Tonya by 14 grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; by his sister Lorraine Lontine and her husband, Raymond; by his brothers-in-law: David Royer and his wife, Diane, and Gerard Royer and his wife, Patricia. He was predeceased by his sister Judy Essaff; and by both his parents.
A Mass was celebrated on March 10 at St. Edward’s Catholic Church in Derby Line with the Reverend Yvon Royer officiating. Spring interment will be in Derby Center Cemetery. Should friends desire, contributions in his memory may be made to the Mary Wright Halo Foundation, 1073 Upper Quarry Road, Newport, Vermont 05855.
Laura B. Marin
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, 65, of Newport, died on March 7, 2017, in Newport.
She was born on November 7, 1951, in Easton, Maryland, to Nelson and Olive (Bell) Yeatman. On November 22, 1969, she married Alfred Marin who survives her.
Mrs. Marin was employed in the produce department at Price Chopper. She enjoyed reading, craftwork, and animals.
She is survived by her husband Alfred Marin of Newport; by her son Alfred Marin Jr. and his wife, Susanne of Levitton, New York; and by her grandchildren: Leandra and Francis. She is also survived by her siblings: Bernard Yeatman and his wife, Gail, of South Carolina, James Yeatman and his wife, Annie, of Delaware, Larry Yeatman and his wife, Nell, of Easton, and Linda Street and her husband, Joseph, of Preston, Maryland; her brother-in-law Frederick Marin and his wife, Lisha, of Proctorsville; and by several nieces, nephews, cousins, aunts and uncles. She was predeceased by her brother Michael.
Funeral services were held on March 11 at the Curtis-Britch-Converse-Rushford Funeral Home, 4670 Darling Hill Road, in Newport, with the Reverend James Merriam officiating. Should friends desire, contributions in her memory may be made to the Pope Memorial Frontier Animal Shelter, 502 Strawberry Acres, Newport, Vermont 05855.
Dorothy V. Monfette
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, 90, died in Newport on March 7, 2017, surrounded by her family.
Mrs. Monfette was born in Newport on January 12, 1927, to William and Elizabeth Curtis (Laplante). The family lived in St. Johnsbury for a time before moving back to Newport and settling on Orchard Street where she grew up. A child of the Great Depression, her young life was difficult at times. She never dwelled on that part of her childhood. She told stories of winter days sledding on the hill below Bogner’s, and in summer picking berries there. When our Mom was 14 years old a family moved into town and she met and fell in love with Paul Monfette. They married on August 9, 1942. The following year they welcomed their first child into the world and soon after Mr. Monfette was drafted and off to war. He was gone for more than two years and Mrs. Monfette carried on raising her baby and living on rations. When Mr. Monfette returned, it took a few years but they were able to build a home of their own on Hill Street in Newport. They had four more daughters and lived in that house for the rest of their lives. Mr. Monfette died last April after 74 years of marriage.
Mrs. Monfette had a few different jobs over her lifetime, but her children and home were her passions. The family spent many a night in bed falling asleep to the sound of her at the sewing machine making new school clothes. She made sure we went on a vacation every year, singing in the car on our way to our adventure. Her energy knew no bounds. She turned an old cow pasture into a yard where all the kids in the neighborhood came to play baseball or go down the slippery slide. Once the children grew older, Mrs. Monfette reclaimed that yard and turned it into one of the prettiest in the city. Her flowerbeds are a true labor of love — full of perennials that will keep her memory alive. Over the years Mrs. Monfette worked mostly as a nurse’s aide but also made custom cakes at our home. She would make giant wedding cakes and every surface in the house would be covered with little sugar flowers she had made and left drying on waxed paper. Her homemade candy was the best around. After the daughters were out on their own, Mrs. Monfette began volunteering. Her work as an advocate for the poor, and the victims of domestic violence have had a lasting impact on the community. She worked on countless toy drives and collected every year for the American Cancer Society. Mrs. Monfette’s work as a hospice volunteer brought comfort to so many families through the years. She gave her time and energy freely and with love and great compassion for others. Mrs. Monfette is survived by her five naughty daughters and three sons-in-law who were her sons: Shelia and Alan Sisco, Paulette and Alvin Simard, Sue and Maury Tinker, Jackie Monfette, and Tammi Monfette. She leaves her grandchildren: Larry Maxwell, Jennifer Simard, Joseph Simard, Jeffrey Markum, Barry Shelton, Sarah Soskin, Emily Soskin, and Jonah Monfette; her great-grandchildren: Amanda, Christopher, Nicholas, A.J., Lexi, Dylan, Ava, Austin, Kaya, Kingston, Elsie, Isabelle, Alyssa, Jackson, and one on the way. She had one great-great-grandchild, Ivey; and is survived by two sisters-in-law: Blanche Monfette and Marilyn Curtis. She was predeceased by her husband, Paul; her siblings: Vivian Hamlin, Shirley Miller, Alice Hackett, Gladys (Red) Theberge, and William Curtis. She was also predeceased by her beloved granddaughter Jackie Simard.
Funeral services were held on March 13 at St. Mary’s Star of the Sea Catholic Church in Newport. Spring interment will be on May 10 at 2 p.m. at St. Mary’s cemetery in Newport.
Helen P. Ricard
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, 79, of Canton, Connecticut, died unexpectedly in Hartford, Connecticut, on February 22, 2017.
She was born in Newport, on August 21, 1937, to Raoul and Arlene (Robitaille) Ricard. Ms. Ricard is survived by four siblings: Andre Ricard of Newport, Gerald Ricard of Canton, Connecticut, David Ricard of North Carolina, and Cecile Ricard of Canton.
Ms. Ricard loved her five devoted children: Cathy, Peggy, Lynn, Michael, and Lisa. She is also survived by ten grandchildren; and 12 great-grandchildren.
She was employed at the Hartford Insurance Company for 20 years, which she retired from in 1996. She became a member of the Second Congregational Church of Winsted in Winsted, Connecticut, in 1998. Not long thereafter, she became a member of the church choir. Her hobbies were sewing and music. She enjoyed spending time with her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren, as well as many friends.
Patricia Anne (May) Barger
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, 81, died at Aegis Assisted Living Community of Queen Anne in Seattle, Washington, on February 25, 2017, after a period of declining health.
Dr. Barger was born on August 13, 1935, the oldest of Beatrice (Brown) and Ralph May’s three children, and she took her responsibilities as a big sister seriously throughout her life. Living in various parts of the Northeast Kingdom, Dr. Barger’s parents ultimately settled in Barton where she was surrounded by extended family on Telfer Hill. Her delight in candied ginger came from spending time with her Grandmother May and sneaking pieces of this special treat from her grandmother’s apron pocket as a little girl.
She graduated from Barton Academy in 1953 and proudly attended the alumni banquet and reunion annually until 2016. The first woman in her family to attend college, she graduated Phi Beta Kappa from the University of Vermont in 1957 with a degree in psychology. She continued her education at Northwestern University in Evanston, Illinois where she received a master’s degree and then a doctorate in clinical psychology.
Shortly after arriving in Chicago, Ms. May was invited to dinner by an older second cousin, Bion Barger, who had heard from family that his “little country cousin” was coming to town to study. The country cousin had a big impact on the city boy and the two married in 1958. Their lifetime partnership of mutual support, challenge, and adoration continued for more than 55 years until Mr. Barger’s death in 2014 at age 90.
Dr. Barger’s early career in psychology included a position as a staff psychologist at Children’s Memorial Hospital in Chicago and adjunct professor of pediatrics at Northwestern Medical School. In 1965, she became an assistant professor of psychology at Loyola University, Chicago, as well as supervisor of Loyola’s Child Guidance Center, eventually becoming the center’s director.
In 1975, Dr. Barger left academics for a position in the Illinois Department of Mental Health and Developmental Disabilities. Over time, she became associate director for mental illnesses and then, the regional administrator for the Chicago metropolitan area managing a multi-million-dollar budget that funded mental health care for more than seven million people in the area.
After her retirement in 1987, Mr. and Dr. Barger relocated to Seattle, and settled in the Queen Anne neighborhood. All who visited them at their home there were treated to a lovely view of the Space Needle, with occasional glimpses of Mount Rainier. The move to Seattle allowed them to see much more of the extended Barger family and Dr. Barger delighted in hosting family occasions on a regular basis, including poker night and fireworks viewing on the Fourth of July.
The move to Seattle also signaled the beginning of Dr. Barger’s next career as a community volunteer. She began an association with the Queen Anne Community Center and Aquatics Program shortly after relocating, joining classes at the pool. The “pool ladies”, as they were known, welcomed her into their circle and became a tight knit group of friends in which Dr. Barger had her first experiences of being a little sister, as most of her dearest friends were older. Her spicy clam chowder became a pool potluck favorite.
Over the course of the next 25 years, Dr. Barger was involved with the community center on an almost daily basis. She spent her weeks attending or leading many activities, including exercise classes at the weight room and pool, Monday senior lunches, Tai Chi, and “Crafty Ladies”, a Thursday afternoon group which donated the efforts of their needlework to various city organizations. She served as president of the advisory council for Queen Anne Community Center and viewed the center as an essential part of the physical and emotional wellbeing of the greater community, especially for seniors. Dr. Barger was recognized in 2013 with the Fabiola Woods Inspirational Award for outstanding community service and was deeply honored and surprised by this attention. During her years of involvement with the community center, she was also famous for roping other people into her many activities and endeavors, most of whom would admit that they were better for it.
After a hospitalization in September of 2016, Dr. Barger moved into the Aegis Assisted Living Community of Queen Anne where she enjoyed several months of activities, socializing, and the opportunity to have red wine with dinner. This caring community brought a sense of involvement and connection to the last several months of her life.
In the last years of her life, she was cared for with great compassion and dignity by her loved ones, Caroline Chan, Erin Gray, and Vistie and Randy Love.
Dr. Barger is survived by her siblings: Pricilla and Walter Armstrong of Barton, and William and Susan May of Barton; and her brothers-in-law William Barger of Bellevue, Washington, and Robert Barger of Buckley, Washington. She also leaves her “surrogate daughters” Caroline Chan and Erin Gray of Seattle; niece and nephew Vistie and Randy Love of Renton, Washington; and niece Alyssa May of East Burke; in addition to nine other dear nieces and nephews and their families, in whom she delighted. Dr. and Mr. Barger had beloved friends, neighbors, and colleagues across the United States and valued these relationships deeply. Those who loved Dr. Barger knew her as an avid storyteller, a keeper of family lore, a lover of cooking and entertaining, and a committed Seattle Storm fan. There are many places and people who will feel her absence in the days to come. We know with confidence that she would tell all who remain to “Have a Lovely!”
A memorial for Dr. Barger will be held in Seattle at the Queen Anne Community Center on March 25 at 3 p.m. Loved ones and friends are warmly invited to attend. A remembrance will also be held in Vermont over the summer at the convenience of the family. Should friends desire, donations in Dr. Barger’s memory can be sent to Caroline Chan, C/?O Queen Anne Community Center, 1901 First Avenue West, Seattle, Washington 98119. Checks should be made payable to Queen Anne Community Center with “Pat Barger Memorial Fund” in the memo line. Arrangements are being handled by Butterworth Funeral Home of Seattle with online condolences available on their website.
Alice Colleen Cloutier
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, 72, of Barton, died peacefully on March 4, 2017, at the Bel Aire Nursing Home in Newport after a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer.
Born in West Glover, this amazing woman was the daughter of William John Kilby and Erma Ethel Reid.
She married her beloved husband, Ronald Cloutier, on June 12, 1965, and they were longtime residents on Glover Road, prior to their more recent relocation to their hilltop residence on Duck Pond Road in Barton.
Mrs. Cloutier had a few jobs including working at the Barton Pharmacy and Barton Graded School, and ended with her retirement at Barton Village, Inc. in 2007. She was also was the Barton Village delinquent tax collector and Barton town delinquent tax collector for almost 50 years.
She is survived be her devoted husband, Ronald; daughter Marsha Cloutier; son Michael Cloutier and his wife, Susan; granddaughter Alexandria; step-grandson Christopher Wells and his partner, Jamie Pell; step-great-grandchildren Brooke, Melanie, and Joshua; step-grandson Geromy Wells; and step-great-granddaughter Jazmin. She is also survived by her brothers, Reid Kilby and his wife, Regina, of Milton, and Dale Kilby of Barton; by half sister Carla Ticehurst and her partner, Beeb Souliere, of Brownington.
She was predeceased by her parents William John Kilby and Erma Ethel Reid; and by two half brothers: Robert and Ronald Ticehurst.
Mrs. Cloutier’s beautiful life will forever be cherished by her immediate family members, but also by all those whose lives have been enriched because of her vibrant and caring personality. She had an uncanny ability to reach people in a deep and positive way, and she opened her home to friends and family alike, hosting many gatherings, and sharing her love with whomever she came in contact. She will be sorely missed.
Her wonderful spirit and joy will be celebrated at a Mass held at the St. Paul’s Catholic Church in Barton on Saturday, March 11, at 11 a.m. with the Reverend Timothy Naples officiating. A dinner will be held after the Mass at the Knights of Columbus Hall at St. Theresa’s Church in Orleans.
Visiting hours will be held on Friday, March 10 from 6 to 8 p.m., at the Curtis-Britch-Converse-Rushford Funeral Home on Elm Street in Barton.
Interment will take place at the Newport Center Cemetery on May 20, at 11 a.m.
Should friends desire, memorial contributions may be made in Mrs. Cloutier’s memory to the St. Paul’s Catholic School, 54 Eastern Avenue, Barton, Vermont 05822.
Larry F. Hosford Sr.
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, 76, of East Charleston, died on February 15, 2017 in Newport.
He was born on December 19, 1940 in Newport. He was the son of Francis and Mabel (Johnson) Hosford.
He graduated from Springfield High School in Springfield, and went on to attend Bentley School of Accounting in Boston, Massachusetts, where he earned his associate’s degree in accounting.
On October 28, 1961, he married Eva Cole who predeceased him on August 28, 2016.
Mr. Hosford loved playing poker, hunting, fishing, telling jokes, and spending time with his grandchildren. He was a member of the Charleston Historical Society, the Charleston Board of Listers, and a former member of the Charleston Fire Department.
He is survived by his sons: Larry Hosford Jr. of Holyoke, Massachusetts, and his partner, Eric Jimenez, David Hosford and his partner, Sybil Phaneuf, of East Charleston, Gary Hosford and his wife, Sheryl, of Newport; his daughters Vicki Hosford of Derby Line, and Darci Potwin and her husband, Chris, of Sharon. Mr. Hosford is also survived by his grandchildren: Sarah, David, Matthew, Kristin, Megan, Calvin, Cole, Tyler, Parker, Phillip, and Ashley; and a great-grandson Mason, all of whom he loved dearly; and also by his brothers- and sisters-in-law: Charlotte and Clair Dane of Morgan, Shirley Bowen of Derby, Elaine Cole and her husband, Rod Kerr, of Greensboro, Alan and Patricia Cole of Westmore, and Linda Cole of Newport; by his brother Wayne Hosford and his wife, Marlene, of Brownington; by his sister Sally Kelley; and by many nieces and nephews.
He was predeceased by his wife Eva (Cole) Hosford; and by two brothers-in-law: Robert and Everett Cole.
A funeral service will be held on Saturday, March 11, at the Curtis-Britch-Converse-Rushford Funeral Home, located at 37 Lake Road in Newport, at 11 a.m., with the Rev. David Dizazzo officiating the service.
Friends may call at the funeral home from 10 a.m. up until the hour of the service. A reception will follow the service at the Eastside Restaurant in Newport.
Should friends desire, memorial contributions may be made in Mr. Hosford’s name to the Charleston Historical Society, P.O. Box 46, East Charleston, Vermont 05833, or to the Alzheimer’s Association of Vermont, 300 Cornerstone Drive, Suite 128, Williston, Vermont 05495.
JAdrien Donat Houle
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, 95, of Irasburg, died on February 28, after months of failing health.
He was born on December 21, 1921 in Irasburg, to Ernest and Doria Houle in the farmhouse that he lived in for most of his life.
On October 11, 1947, he married the love of his life, Laurette M. Paquette at St. Theresa’s Church in Orleans.
Mr. Houle and his wife ran the family dairy farm and produced maple syrup in Irasburg until they sold both operations to their son Ronald and his spouse, Colette, in 1994. One of his loves was using draft horses to gather the sap in the maple orchard. Prior to buying the dairy farm from his father, Mr. Houle logged in the woods of northern New Hampshire for a couple of years. After that he ran a milk can hauling route in Orleans County while also working on the family farm. He enjoyed being outside, especially in the fall when he would hunt deer. For many years he belonged to a bowling league. Playing cards with friends and family was a passion of his. Mr. Houle had a love of numbers and was one of the town of Irasburg’s auditors for many, many years. He attended St. John Vianney Catholic Church in Irasburg and was a member of the Knights of Columbus.
He is survived by his children: Elaine Baxter and her spouse, Thomas, of Geneva, Illinois, Diane Yunggebauer and her spouse, Fred, of Hartland, Lorraine Brasseur and her spouse, Bernard, of Cornish, New Hampshire; Ronald Houle and his spouse, Colette (Gaboriault), of Irasburg, and Denis Houle and his spouse, Laura (Boomer), of Irasburg. He was predeceased by his wife of 67 years, Laurette, in 2015; and by his eldest son, the Reverend Wilfred Andre Houle, in 2013. He was a loving grandfather and great-grandfather to: Matthew Brasseur and his children: Noah and Keera, Johnathon Brasseur and his spouse, Heather, and their children: Hailey and Tanner, Brian Baxter and his spouse, Emily Wren, and their daughter Mary Charlotte, Steven Baxter, Emily and Kaytlyn Houle, and Brandon Houle. He is also survived by two of his seven siblings: Claire (Houle) Roy of Spencer, Massachusetts, and Donat Houle and his spouse, Gisele, of Orleans; as well as several sisters-in-law; and numerous nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by two of his brothers: Wilfrid and Roger; and two of his sisters: Cecile (Houle) Robinson and Theresa (Houle) Poirier Johnson.
A Mass was held on March 6, at St. Theresa’s Church, Orleans. Burial will take place at a later date at St John Vianney’s Cemetery in Irasburg.
Donations may be made to the St. John Vianney Building Fund, 85 St. Paul Lane, Barton, Vermont 05822, or the Alzheimer’s Association of Vermont, 300 Cornerstone Drive, Suite 128, Williston, Vermont 05495.
Warren D. Null
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, 77, of Newport, died on February 28, 2017, in Newport.
He was born on August 11, 1939, in Brooklyn, New York, to Leroy Sr. and Constance (Miller) Null.
He married Barbara Anderson, who survives him.
Mr. Null was a janitor for Northeast Kingdom Community Action in Newport for many years.
Besides his wife, he is survived by his sister-in-law Pearl and her family; his mother-in-law Vanessa Knott; by several nieces and nephews; and by his special friends: Steven Zeniti and his wife, Ann, of New York, and Yvan and Marie Valliere of Stanstead, Quebec; and by many others. He was predeceased by his brother Leroy Null; and two brothers-in-law: Douglas and Cecil Anderson.
A Mass will be celebrated on Friday, March 10, at 11 a.m. at St. Mary’s Star of the Sea Catholic Church in Newport. Spring interment will be in St. Edward’s Catholic Cemetery in Derby Line.
Should friends desire, contributions in his memory may be made to the Newport Health Care Center, 148 Prouty Drive, Newport, Vermont 05855, or to the Curtis-Britch Funeral Home, Inc., 37 Lake Road, Newport, Vermont 05855, to help defray funeral expenses.
Jeannette Margaret (Nault) Spates
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, 84, died peacefully at her home in Derby on March 1, 2017, after a more than five-year battle with Parkinson’s disease.
Mrs. Spates was born in Newport on May 17, 1932, to Majorie (Clark) and Vernon Nault. She was a twin and the second youngest of nine children, and was the last surviving child. Her dad died in 1964 and her mom in 1967.
She married Frank Spates Jr. on January 1, 1955, and lost her husband of 56 years in 2011. She has seen all her siblings laid to rest: brothers Raymond, Harold, Hazen, and Ernest, and her sisters Ruth, Pauline, Betty, and Frances.
Mrs. Spates leaves behind four children: Valerie Gann and her husband, Pat, of Spring City, Tennessee, Grant and his partner, Carol Brown, of Derby, Dana of Derby, and Lee and his wife, Lisa, of Derby.
She leaves behind nine grandchildren: Rachel Spates of Weston, Massachusetts, Jerimiah Ovitt of Rutland, Emily Spates and her friend, Soeren Sauer, of Hillsboro, Oregon, Sarah Spates and her husband, Chad Greenlaw, of South Berwick, Maine, Tristan Ovitt of Milton, Whitney Ovitt and her friend, Howie Lockamy, of Derby, Logan Spates of Moorsville, North Carolina, Mira Spates of Derby, and Sam Spates of Colchester and Derby.
She also leaves five great-grandchildren: Caleb Ovitt, Killie Ovitt, Cheyene Ovitt, Avalon Lockamy, and Oliver Greenlaw. She also leaves brothers- and sisters-in-law; and many nieces and nephews.
Mrs. Spates graduated from Newport High School in 1951, was a member of the 1948-1949 Newport High School state champion basketball team, and was valedictorian of her class. She worked at True and Blanchard’s hardware store with Oscar “Robert” Thayer’s grandfather Asa Thayer, and then for the telephone company in Newport. When Mr. Spates went in the Marines and then onto UVM, she and the kids moved as needed. They lived on Summer Street in Newport with Val, Grant, and Dana until 1963, when they moved to Vernon, Connecticut. Their son Lee was born there in 1964. The family moved back to Vermont in 1970 and purchased a farm on the Beebe Plain Road in Derby. They started with Jerseys and then switched to Holsteins. Mrs. Spates missed the Jersey milk that made great whipped cream. Despite her hay fever she loved to help out with haying, refused to drive the tractor but would stack bales. When Spates Construction was formed in 1974, Mrs. Spates was the bookkeeper doing payroll, job costing, and accounts receivable and payable. She worked side by side with her husband and three sons in the business and helped it grow from a small residential company to a recognized mid-sized commercial contractor doing projects all over Vermont and northern New Hampshire. With the growth of the company came more and more demand on her, but the ever ready-to-learn student she moved with the times and went back to school at night to get computer and accounting training from adult educational services. She continued this role until her retirement from Spates Construction in the 1990s.
She and Mr. Spates enjoyed vacationing with Bill and Hilda Spates, along with Doug and Vivian Spates. When living in Connecticut and coming up for Thanksgiving at the in-laws, she and Frank Jr. enjoyed playing cards (pitch) with Frank Sr. and Eleanor Spates, along with Betty and George Durkee, and Joyce and Jay Stanwood.
She loved to take her kids go to Crystal Lake in Barton and visit with her sister Betty who lived just up the road from Pageant Park. She and Mr. Spates would also spend time on the shores of Lake Memphremagog with her sister Frances and her husband, Bob Colladay, and their two sons who spent their summers at a camp that Mr. Spates had built for them on the Bluffs. They would also visit with Barbra and Brian Bouge next door to the Colladays. Mr. and Mrs. Spates enjoyed dining out and going to sporting events with Burnie and Geneva Burke, along with Tom and Glennis Berry. She loved having the grandchildren over when Mr. Spates went to deer camp, and loved having the whole family around her at holidays. Mrs. Spates would do Christmas tree and holiday themes, and she must have accumulated over twenty boxes of ornaments and decorations that she had put together over the years.
Mrs. Spates served on the North Country Union School Board and was the chair for part of her time on the board. She loved to see any of her kids or grandchildren in any school events, from holiday concerts, football, baseball, soccer, hockey, skiing meets, track and field, plays, or dance. She cherished attending those events. She and Mr. Spates were honored by Friends of North Country Hockey for all they did for the team.
The family will hold a service and burial in the spring, Mrs. Spates favorite time of year. The time and place will be announced in the paper so friends and family can help celebrate her life.
David C. Yanacheak
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, 73, of Brownington, died unexpectedly on Saturday, February 25, 2017.
He was born on September 8, 1943, in Erie, Pennsylvania. He was the son of the late Cleo and Genevieve (née Scheloske) Yanacheak. He was the first of five children who grew up on a farm in Climbing Hill, Iowa.
He served in the United States Air Force during the Vietnam War, and accumulated lifelong memories while stationed in Thailand. In March of 1992 he married Mary Patricia Kennedy, who preceded him in death on November 9, 2015.
Mr. Yanacheak was a member of the American Legion in Orleans, the Moose Club, the VFW in Newport, and the Newport Elks Lodge #2155.
His lifelong vocation was as a construction power lineman. His home-away-from-home was always with his lineman buddies. He was a member the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local Union #1249 and #104.
He enjoyed fishing, woodworking, music, drinks poured two fingers too tall, history, boats, reading a novel per day, dancing, and evincing his gregarious charm. He served as a dutiful caregiver to his late wife in the final years of her life, and was able to rejoin her with little delay. In the past decade, Mr. Yanacheak gained much strength and insight through Sufism. He was an avid animal lover, especially of his cats and dogs.
He is survived by his children: Jason Kennedy and his wife, Khayreyah Wahaab, of Auckland, New Zealand, Charles Yanacheak of Fayetteville, Arkansas, Marnie Yanacheak of Littleton, Colorado, Michelle Yanacheak of Massena, New York, Amanda Yanacheak of Smithfield, North Carolina; and by his stepdaughter Tina DeLorme of Palm Coast, Florida; by his grandchildren: Gaby, Andrew, Ethan, Marissa, Julianna, Calvin, Harper, and Jayden. His is also survived by his siblings: Ralph Yanacheak and his wife, Carol, of Lemars, Iowa, Art Yanacheak and his wife, Diane, of St. Paul, Minnesota, Frank Yanacheak of Anthon, Iowa; Nedra Haley and her husband, Rex, of Van Buren, Arkansas; by sister-in-law Sherry Yanacheak of Sioux City, Iowa; and by many nieces and nephews. Of special mention is Mr. Yanacheak’s longtime friend Paul Loughran and his wife, Amy, of Charlestown, Massachusetts.
He was predeceased by his parents; his wife; his daughter Rita Yanacheak; and by his brother Norman Yanacheak.
A funeral service was held on March 3 at the Brownington Congregational Church in Brownington.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that contributions be made in his memory to the Pope Memorial Frontier Animal Shelter, 502 Strawberry Acres Road, Newport, Vermont 05855.
Warren Lawrence Austin
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, 92, of Orleans, died peacefully at home in the company of his family on February 19, 2017.
He was born on March 3, 1924, in Orleans, to Carolyn (Perry) and Arthur Orlo Austin, the youngest of six children.
He graduated from Orleans High School in 1942, served his country in Europe during World War II, earned his degree from the Massachusetts College of Pharmacy, and joined his father Arthur and brother Perry at the family’s drug store in Orleans.
Mr. Austin’s wedding in 1948 to Lois Iona Drew was the beginning of a 66-year-long marriage that produced three children: Richard, Lawrence, and Ann.
He served Orleans and the surrounding communities as a pharmacist at Austin’s Drug Store, which opened in 1905, alongside his father, his brother Perry, and eventually his daughter Ann, until his retirement in 2004. Active in professional organizations, he served as president of the Vermont Board of Pharmacy and received many awards during his long career.
In addition to the company of his family and friends, he enjoyed golf, bridge, spending time at his camp on Long Pond, and woodworking as well as travel. He and Mrs. Austin took numerous cruises through the years until a stroke in 2011 slowed him down a bit. He remained a “wicked” cribbage player and puzzle master, in addition to actively supporting the Red Sox, Bruins, and Celtics.
He is survived by his sister-in-law Marilyn Farr and her husband, Bob, of Florida; his sons: Richard Austin and his wife, Carol, of Delta Junction, Alaska, Lawrence Austin and his wife, Joanie, of Orleans; his daughter Ann Austin of Orleans; his grandchildren: Jenny, Kim, Bob, Chesley, Kathryn, Derek, and Jessica; and by eight great-grandchildren. He is survived also by his loving caregivers: Britt Blay, Jessica Buckley, Dolores Chamberlain, Barbara Farrand-Fecteau, Judy Rotunno, and Karen Bullis, who made it possible for him to remain at home, living life as fully as possible until the end.
He was predeceased by his parents; his wife Lois in 2015; his siblings: Perry, Fran, Robert, Stanley, and Sidney; and his grandchildren: Molly Raftery, Rachel Dunlap, and James Raftery.
A memorial service will be planned in the spring for friends and family. Should friends desire, contributions in his memory may be made to the Orleans Ambulance Service, in care of Dot Collier, 1327 Dry Pond Road, Glover, Vermont 05839, or to the Orleans-Essex V.N.A. and Hospice, Inc., 46 Lakemont Road, Newport, Vermont 05855.
Everett E. Camber
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, 92, of Newport died on February 16, 2017, in Newport.
He was surrounded by the laughter and love of those he held closest to his heart. There is little doubt that he is grateful to be reunited with his sweetheart Adeline and his son Paul who died before him along with his great-nephew John.
He leaves behind his daughter-in-law Cheryl Sheaman; his grandson Eric and his wife, Karen; a granddaughter Kim and her husband, Jeremy; they and his great-grandchildren Ty and Tucker, and Ryley and Aydyn will remember his quick wit, infectious smile, playful nature, and fierce love. He is also survived by a great-niece Shirley Camber.
Those who knew Mr. Camber know he led a rich life from racing cars, delivering milk, having his own paper route and restaurant, to retiring which really meant driving cars for auctions. He was a generous man with the kindest heart known for sharing whatever he had with those in need. He loved meandering along a back road never worrying about the destination but rather enjoying the journey. Those who knew him also knew how straight forward and practical he was. It seems fitting we include his final words.
“I was born to John Anderson Camber and Bernice Moulton on November 1, 1924. That is All Saints Day. No wonder I was a little angel. I lived in Newport on the east side through graded school and one year of high school. My father retired from the railroad in 1938. The next year they bought a little farm on the Beebe Road and I did my three years in Derby Academy in 1942. At least I got my diploma. I worked with my dad doing carpentry work then went to Bray Wood Heel in Orleans until it burned. Then I worked for the Railway Express until after the war ended. I then worked for H.P. Hood and Sons until 1970, this included driving milk tankers straight and semi for Gaston Poulin and Paul Burkewitz.
I married Adeline Leona Scott, the daughter of John Scott and Ruby Flora Hyland Scott on September 15, 1951. This was the year Paul Ernest Sykes was born in Boston, Massachusetts. We adopted Paul in 1971.
In 1970, Mrs. Camber and I bought Dick’s Drive-In, in Derby, on the Derby Line Road. I sold it in February of 1980 after my wife died. After selling the diner I had a Burlington Free Press paper route through Island Pond. Before giving it up I went to work for the Mulkin Corporation, that lasted 22 years, until I finally retired in May of 2004.
A graveside service will he held in the spring at the Newport Center Cemetery. Should friends desire, contributions in Mr. Camber’s memory may be made to the Pope Memorial Frontier Animal Shelter, 502 Strawberry Acres Road, Newport, Vermont 05855, or to the Newport Center Fire Department, P.O. Box 86, Newport Center, Vermont 05857.
Randy B. Carpenter
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, 56, of Derby, died on February 20, 2017, in Lebanon, New Hampshire.
He was born on December 18, 1960, in Newport, to Constance McDonald and Reginald Carpenter. Mr. Carpenter was a flagger for traffic control. He was a NASCAR racing fan, and enjoyed football and baseball. He loved spending time with his granddaughters, caring for his flower garden, and working in his workshop.
He is survived by his daughter Monica Carpenter and her husband, Kevin Pion; by his grandchildren: McKayla Carpenter and Taylor Pion; by his parents Constance and Reginald Carpenter; by his companion Linda Santaw; by his siblings: Richard Carpenter and his wife, Lucy, Jodi Tice and her companion, Doug Gray, and Sheila Carpenter her companion, Scott Gray. He is also survived by his nephews: Chad Byers and his wife, Shannon, Anthony Byers and his wife, Kristen, Seth Carpenter and his wife, Bethany; and by his niece Amanda Roy and her husband, Jason; and several aunts and uncles.
Services will be held at the convenience of the family. Should friends desire, contributions in his memory may be made to Monica Carpenter, P.O. Box 403, Derby, Vermont 05829.
Edward Earl Curtis
....show , 90, of Lancaster Road, died Thursday, May 25, 2017, at Country Village Genesis Healthcare Center. She is survived by Owen Horsler, middle son of Lunenburg, Vt, his daughters, Suzanne Mitton & husband Michael Mitton; their children {Cecelia great grand daughters} Holly & Krysta Mitton of Lunenburg. Owen's other 2 daughters Aimee & Roseanne Horsler of Lunenburg. Cecelia's oldest son Robert Horsler of Southwick Massachusettes & wife Clara Horsler. Their daughters, Cindy Horsler & Sara Gallagher married to Rodney Gallagher & son { great granson} Brady Gallagher. Cecelia youngest son is Gary Horsler of East Granby Connecticut. Cecelia has only a few living cousins left in the New York area & was predeceased by her husband & parents.
, 59, died on November 18, 2016, in Coxsackie, New York, after a brief illness.
He was born on April 25, 1957, in Newport, to Dallas and Betty (Percy) Curtis.
Mr. Curtis was an avid outdoorsman. He loved to hunt, fish, snowmobile, and water ski.
He is survived by his parents, Dallas and Betty Curtis, of Pinson, Alabama, and formerly of Derby; by his two sons, Dylan and Dallas Curtis; his two sisters, Patricia Curtis of Connecticut, and Nancy Long and her husband, George Andrew, of Tinson, Alabama; his niece Heather Hunt; and by his nephew Justin Corkins.
A graveside service in the Derby Center Cemetery will be announced at a later time in the spring.
Catherine Lucas Inman
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, 88, of Westmore, died peacefully on February 20, 2017, in Newport, surrounded by family.
Mrs. Inman was born on February 11, 1929, to George and Katherine Millet. After attending high school, Catherine went on to college in Boston, Massachusetts. She was devoted to the teaching field, as an educator in Island Pond, Newport Center, and Derby. She went on to become the executive secretary at North Country Union High School for nearly two decades. This was a huge part of her life as she loved being in the school environment and working with young children, often passing out candy to the unfortunate souls reporting to the principals office.
Mrs. Inman loved with her whole heart. She loved children, taking care of stray animals, and helping whomever she could. She enjoyed playing bridge, watching sports, traveling, camping, gardening, and the ocean. She enjoyed many years at her beloved Echo Lake home, listening to the loons, summer rainstorms, and enjoying the occasional cocktail.
She is survived by her spouse, Bobby Inman, of Westmore; her deceased husband, Paul Lucas, who died in 2011; her son Steve Lucas and his wife, Sherie, of West Charleston; her daughters Leslie Lucas of Barre, and Karen Crowe and her husband, Alan, of East Charleston. She is also survived by nine grandchildren, and six great-grandchildren.
In place of flowers, please send donations to Pope Memorial Frontier Animal Shelter, 502 Strawberry Acres, Newport, Vermont 05855.
Services were held at Curtis-Britch-Converse-Rushford Funeral Home in Newport, on February 25, with the Reverend James Merriam officiating. A private burial service will be held in the spring for immediate family and friends at a time to be announced at a later date. Online condolences can be shared at www.curtis-britch.com.
Burton L. Lawson
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, 41, of Derby, died suddenly and unexpectedly at his home, on February 22, 2017.
He was born August 7, 1975, in Newport, to Larry and Cheryl (Austin) Lawson of Derby.
Mr. Lawson was an amazing, gentle, angel on Earth. He was well known for the smile on his face. He was known for his eclectic artwork. He never kept anything, but always gave it away. It gave him great joy to do so. He was talented beyond belief and his friends got to share in this. His generous heart was known to all.
One of his favorite things to make was the sun. It reflected his personality. He was also very talented at making old barn board furniture.
He was also an avid animal lover. His gentle soul bonded with any animal that crossed his path. In his younger days, he loved to spend time with his Grandpa Austin, his namesake. They both enjoyed the quiet and solitude of the woods. His greatest joy was spending time with people. He touched so many hearts. He will be missed by everyone. He was especially close to his cousin Beth Mary, who was always there for him. They had a special bond. He was especially close to his brother Preston.
He is also survived by his sisters: Angel Conrad and her husband, Robert, Amy Davis and her husband, Eric, of Derby, and Bridget Lawson of Brownington. Burt and Bridget were so close they called each other twins. He is also survived by several nieces, nephews, aunts, and uncles. He was predeceased by his grandparents: Burton and Vivian Austin of West Charleston and Fred and Theresa Lawson of North Derby.
A service was held on March 1 at the Curtis-Britch-Converse-Rushford Funeral Home in Newport with William Favreau officiating. Should friends desire, contributions in his memory may be made to the Lawson family, 2876 Vermont Route 105, Derby, Vermont 05829.
Barbara “Barbie” Ann Monteith
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, 53, the eldest daughter of Susan Dagesse of Derby, died on January 26 after a courageous battle with liver disease, in Seguin, Texas.
She was born in Morrisville, on January 22, 1964. She was very adventurous and enjoyed traveling and meeting new people. She loved baking, the Green Bay Packers, the fresh air and warm sunshine. She had a beautiful smile that warmed the hearts of many.
She is survived by the love of her life, Mark Wilson, of Seguin, Texas; her daughters: Amber Robbins of Newport; Ashley Robbins of Ware, Massachusetts, and Alicia Girard and her boyfriend, Cameron Hernandez, of Seguin; her grandchildren: Gwendalyn Mills, Jeremiah and Liam Hernandez; her mother Susan Dagesse and her husband, Leo, of Derby; her father Gordon Monteith of Hardwick; her siblings: Gordon Monteith and his wife, Sandy, of Derby, Tammie Currier and her husband, Jonathan, of Jeffersonville, Christine Goodell of Coventry, Michael Monteith of Santa Monica, California, Misty Poitras and her husband, Jason, of Canada, Lisa Monteith and her boyfriend, Anthony Desanto, of Barton, and Gabrielle Monteith of Hardwick. She leaves behind many aunts and uncles, cousins, nieces and nephews, who she loved very much. She will be missed by many.
She was predeceased by her grandmother Catherine Jackson; her niece Misty Laviolette; her nephew Roger Menard; her brother-in-law Roger Goodell; and by several other family members.
Charles R. Averill
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, 88, died peacefully at Harris Hill Nursing home, in Concord, New Hampshire, on February 7, 2017.
He was born May 12, 1928, to Paul L. and Margaret (Daley) Averill in Concord. “Charlie” graduated from Concord High School in 1947 then served in the naval reserve for eight years. He worked for Greenland Services where he learned small engine repair. He became a salesperson for Maine, New Hampshire, and Vermont, which led him to Hoagland’s Autobody where he worked for 30 years. He enjoyed acquiring the skills to repair horse drawn carriages and antique automobiles, and used those skills to stripe the Concord Coach. He spent his spare time restoring his 1923 Model T Ford Touring Car and was a longtime member of the Profile Automobile League.
His background in the automotive industry transitioned into working for the Concord Group Insurance. There he became a state and provincial chairperson representing New England and Quebec for the Inter-Industry Conference on Auto Collision Repair (ICAR), meeting with the three major automobile manufacturers regarding safety and proper repairs of the new unibody automobiles.
Mr. Averill was a Concord Kiwanian since 1974, serving on the board of directors, and receiving the George F. Hickson Fellow Award. Through his inspiration, the annual antique and classic car show was launched. Also, through his efforts, the city of Concord installed a sign indicating the area behind Everett Arena as Kiwanis Waterfront Park. He assisted the 20/?20 vision committee in acquiring a public boat ramp for launching kayaks and canoes as well as developing the annual Riverfront Jamboree. Mr. Averill was also chairman for maintaining the grounds of the Kiwanis Waterfront Park, where he enjoyed participating in its upkeep.
Mr. Averill had a love of music — especially the classics and opera — and played the drums during his school years, forming his own band. He enjoyed golf, was an avid walker and loved woodworking and carpentry. He built his own summer cottage on Willoughby Lake in Westmore. He had a tireless passion for helping others. He enjoyed spending winters in Florida and summers at the cottage.
He was predeceased by his sister Pauline Clancy and her husband, Richard. He leaves behind his wife of 67 years, Eleanor (Meadows); two daughters: Pamela Wolfstone of Farmington, Maine, and Beth Beaugeard and her husband, Larry, of Dunbarton, New Hampshire; and a son, Paul Averill and his wife, Chrys, of Concord; five granddaughters: Stacy, Lexi, Alyssa, Bronwyn, and Shaylah; and one grandson Jared; one great-granddaughter Ella Rose; many nieces and nephews of the Clancy, Davis, and Meadows families; and cousins of the Daley family.
Mr. Averill will be missed; through it all he never lost his sense of humor.
Visitation was held on February 19, in Concord. Burial will be private.
Robert O. French
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, 71, of Springfield, Massachusetts, died on February 7, 2017, surrounded by his children.
Mr. French was born in Newport on February 22, 1945, the son of the late Ovila and Blanche (Prue) French. He was a graduate of Cathedral High School, class of 1963. He proudly served our country in the United States Air Force during the Vietnam War, and spent most of his career working at Pratt and Whitney in Connecticut. He was a communicant of St. Michael’s Church in East Longmeadow, Massachusetts.
In addition to his parents he was predeceased by his beloved wife Mary (Cunningham) French on July 7, 2014; and a sister, Donna Boisvert.
He is survived by his three devoted children: Karen Chapin and her husband, Michael, of Hampden, Massachusetts, Daniel French and his wife, Mary, of Springfield, and Christopher French and his wife, Jenny, of East Longmeadow; and he leaves five cherished grandchildren: Lauren, Stephanie, Danielle, Emily and Anna. He also leaves two brothers: David French and his wife, JoAnn, and James French and his wife, Patricia; three sisters: Katherine French, Aileen Coulombe and her husband, Gerald, all of Newport, and Julie Farioli and her husband, David, of Melbourne, Florida; and a brother-in-law Laurent Boisvert of Newport.
His funeral was held on February 13 at the Byron Keenan Funeral Home in Springfield, followed by a Liturgy of Christian Burial at St. Michael’s Church in East Longmeadow. He was buried with full military honors in the Massachusetts Veterans’ Memorial Cemetery, in Agawam, Massachusetts.
Memorial contributions may be made in Mr. French’s memory to the D’Amour Center for Cancer Care, 280 Chestnut Street, Sixth Floor, Springfield, Massachusetts 01199.
Basil G. Kokoletsos
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, 81, of Barton died on February 11, 2017, in Newport.
He was born on June 15, 1935, in Thessaloniki, Greece, and was the son of George and Olympia (Rodopoulos) Kokoletsos.
Mr. Kokoletsos came to the United States to attend Illinois Institute of Technology on a scholarship and received a degree in electrical engineering. On December 23, 1957, he married Marcella Nobile in Chicago.
Besides his wife he is survived by his two daughters: Nicole Akiki and her husband, Sam, of Allendale, New Jersey, and Noelle Crane and her husband, Marshall, of Ridgewood, New Jersey; and by his grandchildren: Athena, Christiana, Anthony and Christian Akiki, and Mitchell and Nicholas Crane; his brother Theodore Kokoletsos; and his wife, Soula, of Vouliagmeni, Greece; and nephews George and Gus.
Mr. Kokoletsos served in the United States Army in Korea. In the 1970s he founded Strongwall Industries in Ridgewood, retiring in 2005. He vacationed in Barton and retired here in 2010. He loved the outdoors and enjoyed horseback riding, hunting, skiing, and hiking.
A Mass will be celebrated in the spring at St. Paul’s Catholic Church in Barton, with the Reverend Timothy Naples officiating. Memorial contributions may be made in Mr. Kokoletsos’ name to the Parkinson’s Disease Foundation, 1359 Broadway, Suite 1509, New York, New York 10018, or at https://?www.parkinson.org/?get-involved/?ways-to-give.
Louise Annette Helen McElroy
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, 89, of St. Johnsbury, died at the St. Johnsbury Health and Rehabilitation Center on February 9, 2017.
She was born on September 16, 1927, in Albany, a daughter to the late Edward and Josephine (Bo) Gile. She grew up in Albany. She worked as a sales clerk at Grant’s and Hovey’s in St. Johnsbury for many years.
Mrs. McElroy loved to go on walks and go shopping. She enjoyed spending time with her friends and working in her flower garden at her home on South Main Street in St. Johnsbury. She was an avid crossword puzzle enthusiast. She was a quiet presence, kind and dependable. She always put her family first, spending many days with her sisters and brother and at family gatherings.
Mrs. McElroy had no children but did take a strong liking to her neighbor’s children, Lisa Stuart and Jerry Cote, and they enjoyed spending time with her and her husband, Armond.
She is survived by her sisters: Margaret Wright of St. Johnsbury, Laura Gonyaw of Barton, and Rena Young of Connecticut. She is also survived by her long-time best friend Marion Bennett of Lyndonville.
Mrs. McElroy was predeceased by her husband, Armond McElroy; brothers: John and Ernest Gile; and sisters: Marie Chiovetti, Rose Sanville, Bertha Shortsleeve, and Alice Voyer.
A graveside memorial service will be held at the Mount Pleasant Cemetery in St. Johnsbury at 2 p.m. on Sunday, June 25.
Memorial donations may be made in Mrs. McElroy’s name to the NEK Council on Aging, 481 Summer Street, Suite 101, St. Johnsbury, Vermont 05819.
Rene P. Perrault
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, 90, died February 5, 2017, in Newport.
He was born January 9, 1927, in Green Valley, Ontario, the son of Rene A. Perrault and Adrienne Phaneuf of St. Johnsbury. He was one of three sons. He graduated with two years of business college in St. John, Quebec, and entered the employment of the Canadian Pacific Railway Company, where he worked in different capacities and vicinities for 20 years. He retired in Newport, in 1986 with an early pension.
He married Micheline Courchesne, in St. John, Quebec, in 1999.
He is survived by his wife, Micheline; and by his brother Robert Perrault of Newport Center. He was predeceased by his brother Raynold Perrault of Concord, New Hampshire. He also leaves several nieces and nephews.
Funeral arrangements were made by Urgel Bourgie, of Montreal, Quebec.
Charles Arthur Plante Sr.
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, 79, died peacefully on the morning of Saturday, January 21, 2017, at his home in Lyndonville.
He had a love of the outdoors and many hobbies including hunting, fishing, and gardening. He also enjoyed brewing his own beer, singing, whistling tunes, and telling jokes. Spending time with family and pets was one of his favorite things to do.
He sadly leaves behind his wife Nancy Plante of Lyndonville; his son Gregoire Plante of West Newbury; his grandchildren: Joseph Plante and his wife, Katie, of Newbury, Charles Plante III of San Francisco, California, Adam Plante and his husband, John, of Manchester, New Hampshire, Brook Robillard and her husband, Chris, of Epsom, New Hampshire, Daniel Hawkins of Portland, Oregon, and Timothy Labor Jr. and his wife, Lahanah, of Sanford, Maine; his six great-grandchildren; his brother Robert Plante of Bradford; and sister Janeane Bruno of Bradford; and his dog Peanut.
He was predeceased by his parents Robert and Gabrielle (Viviers) Plante; his sons Charles Plante Jr. and Guy Plante; and two of his siblings.
A celebration of life will be planned for the spring. Friends and family will be notified of the date and time.
Nelson C. Stevens III
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, 72, a beloved son, father, husband, and friend to many, died suddenly on February 10, at Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center, in Lebanon, New Hampshire, with his daughters by his side.
He was born July 12, 1944 at Cottage Hospital in Barton, the son of Nelson II and Barbara (Leno) Stevens.
Mr. Stevens received his high school diploma from the Barton Academy in 1962, and furthered his education by attending two years of college at Johnson State College. He was a mason by trade, taught by his father Nelson C. Stevens II, with many displays of his craft throughout homes all around the county. He was also was an independent used car salesman, who enjoyed driving a newly purchased Cadillac around town himself before finding a buyer. For over 40 years he was employed by the Chronicle, performing a variety of tasks, from working in the printing room, to delivering the papers to local stores.
On August 13, 1990, he married Rachel Archer who survives him.
Mr. Stevens was raised on a farm in West Glover. Growing up, and through the years, he enjoyed hunting, fishing, and snowmobiling, along with a round or two of golf. He loved spending time with family and friends, sharing stories and laughing over jokes.
He bowled for several years on a league, at the Candlepin in Barton; shot pool at all of the local bars, taverns, and pool halls — in fact, he was well known for his pool playing skills; and played horseshoes, especially at the annual Willoughby Lake tournament.
He is survived by the mother of his daughters, Linda Butler Stevens; his mother Barbara Stevens; and his daughters Carole Briere and her husband, Scott, and Tracie Stevens; and by his grandchildren Oakley Stevens, and Katelynn Briere; by his brothers Gary Stevens, and Jeffrey Stevens and his wife, Pam; by his sister Rebecca Griffin and her partner, Ronald Moss; by his stepdaughter Melissa Archer and her husband, Daniel Border; and his stepson Vercil Warner; as well as, several nieces and nephews. He also leaves behind Squeaky and Bubbles, the kitties he adored.
He was predeceased by his father Nelson C Stevens II.
He will be grievously missed by all who knew and loved him.
For those wishing, donations in Mr. Stevens’ memory may be made to zerocancer.org/?donate, or mailed to ZERO — The End of Prostate Cancer, 515 King Street, Suite 420, Alexandria, Virginia 22314.
A memorial and celebration of Mr. Stevens’ life is planned for Saturday, March 25, at the American Legion Post #21 on Veterans Avenue in Newport at 4 p.m.
Lorraine Delores Tolman
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, 72, of Greensboro, died Sunday, February 19, 2017, at the Northeastern Vermont Regional Hospital in St. Johnsbury with her loving family at her bedside.
She was born September 15, 1944, in Hardwick, the daughter of the late Emile and Jeanne (Bellavance) Dufresne. She attended Glover public schools, Catholic school in St. Johnsbury, Hardwick Academy, and graduated from Craftsbury Academy in the class of 1962. She married Harold George Tolman later that same year, on December 29, 1962. They recently celebrated 54 years of marriage.
Mrs. Tolman was a hard worker and was employed at the Come and Eat Restaurant in Hardwick, the Charlmont Restaurant in Morrisville, and cleaned camps to support her future endeavors as a payroll professional. She received her real estate license, working with Strout Realty, and was proud to have worked as the payroll tax administrator in the payroll department at National Life Insurance Co. in Montpelier for more than 15 years. She retired in 2000.
Mrs. Tolman was an active volunteer in her community. She was a member of Mary Queen of all Saints Parish, treasurer and member of Court St. Veronica Catholic Daughter in Hardwick, past member of the Hazen Union school board from 1981 to 1989, auditor of accounts for the town of Greensboro, Lake View Union School treasurer, founder and past president of the Green Mountain Payroll Association for 20 years, and a member of the New England Payroll Association. She taught catechism at St. Michael’s Church for a few years. As a coach’s wife, she spent countless hours helping to raise funds for the baseball and basketball teams, washing uniforms, and watching and supporting many games. In 2006, Mrs. Tolman and her husband received the Greensboro Award for their many years of service to the Greensboro community. She personalized storybooks and letters for children called, “Grams Choice Books.” For more than 31 years, Mr. and Mrs. Tolman would gather with their family on the Maine coast. She enjoyed knitting, sewing, glass etching, and crafts, moose hunting, and outdoor activities. She was especially fond of capturing photos of wildlife with her camera systems and sharing the excitement of those with her family.
Survivors include her husband, Harold, of Greensboro; a son, Jefferson Tolman and his wife, Jacquelyn (Ramsay), of Greensboro; three daughters: Laurie Hodgdon of Stowe, Annette Jones and her husband, Jim, of Craftsbury, and Penny Jones and her husband, Andy, of Elmore; ten grandchildren: Chris, Brent, Hannah, Nicole, Logan, Emily, Alysha, Kaitlyn, Abigail, and Meghan. She was also survived by nine great-grandchildren; three brothers: Leonel Dufresne of East Albany, Lucien Dufresne of Williamstown, and Roger “Pudge” Dufresne of Fairfax; three sisters: Doris Voyer of Calais, Jeannine Young of Craftsbury, and Diane Leslie of Zephyrhills, Florida; and by many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and cousins.
She was predeceased by her parents; and by siblings, Pauline Smith, Rita Davis and two infant sisters.
Visiting hours will be held Friday evening, February 24, from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Northern Vermont Funeral Home at 60 Elm Street in Hardwick.
A Mass will be celebrated at 11 a.m., Saturday, February 25, at St. Norbert’s Catholic Church in Hardwick. Spring burial will be in the Tolman family lot in the Greensboro Village Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, contributions in her memory may be made to the Lamoille Area Cancer Network, 198 Farr Avenue, Morrisville, Vermont 05661.
Beatrice Young
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, 80, of North Troy, died on February 10, 2017, in Newport.
She was born on July 28, 1936, in Troy, to Sanford and Agnes (Gilbrault) Cota. She married Robert Young who predeceased her.
She was a furniture maker for Ethan Allen Manufacturing in Orleans. Among her hobbies, she enjoyed cooking for large gatherings, being with her family, and having company at her home. She appreciated Sara her caregiver who did many things to help her out.
She is survived by her children: Debra Merrill and her husband, Stanley, of North Troy; by her grandchildren: Scott, Paul, Ryan, Chesley, and Brent; and by her great-granddaughter Olivia. She is also survived by her brothers: Sanford Cota Jr. and his companion, Sandra Peters, of North Troy, and Marvin Cota and his wife, Sandy, of Colchester; by her sisters Margaret Willis of North Troy, and Shirley Alix and her husband, Tony, of Florida; and by several nieces, nephews and cousins. She was predeceased by her husband Robert; by her parents Sanford and Agnes Cota; by her son Randy Young; by her brother Floyd Cota; and by her sisters Betty and Madeline.
A graveside service will be held at 2:30 p.m. on Saturday, May 27, at the North Troy Village Cemetery with Pastor Micky Richards officiating. Friends may call at the cemetery from 1:30 p.m. until the hour of the service. Should friends desire, contributions in her memory may be made to the Norris Cotton Cancer Center North, 1080 Hospital Drive, St. Johnsbury, Vermont 05819.
Earl S. Scott Sr.
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, “Earl the Squirrel,” 63, of Derby, died on February 6, 2017, in Newport.
He was born on October 5, 1953, in Newport to George Sr. and Lura (Simpson) Scott. On September 2, 1994, he married Yvette Chaput who survives him. He was a lift attendant at Jay Peak ski resort.
Mr. Scott enjoyed hunting, fishing, playing cards, demo’s, telling jokes, working at Jay Peak, snowmobiling, and meeting new people.
He is survived by his wife Yvette Scott of Derby; by his children: Leslie Kimball and her husband, Brian, of Northfield, James Aiken Jr. and his wife, Michelle, of Derby Line, and Earl Scott Jr. and his girlfriend, Jeanie Lahue, of Newport Center. He is also survived by his grandchildren: Wyatt Pion, and Kristopher and Jayden Aiken; by his brother George Scott Jr. and his wife, Susan, of West Charleston; and by nieces, nephews, sisters- and brothers-in-law; and by his best friends: Norman Sargent of Derby Line, and Laurette and Ken Baraw of St. Johnsbury. He was predeceased by his parents George Sr. and Lura Scott; a grandson Brendan Nathan Aiken; his brother Brian Scott; and his mother-in-law Violet Chaput.
Private family services will be held. Should friends desire, contributions in his memory may be sent to Yvette Scott, 2477 Route 5, Lot A7, Derby, Vermont 05829.
William L. St. John
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, 87, of Island Pond and formerly of Harvard, Massachusetts, died on February 7, 2017, in Newport.
He was born on December 18, 1929, in Clinton, Massachusetts, to William H. and Marie (Lecomte) St. John. On October 24, 1953, he married Claire L. Ducharme in Willimansett, Massachusetts, and lived in Norfolk, Virginia, with his wife until being discharged from the Navy on February 27, 1954.
He grew up spending time and working on local farms. He graduated from high school on June 13, 1947. He joined the Navy on April 27, 1950, and spent boot camp at Great Lakes Naval Training Center. He attended Aviation Structural Mechanic School at Naval Air Technical Training Command in Memphis, Tennessee, from July 1950 to February 1951, and graduated first in his class. He was then assigned to Navy squadron VP 44 in Norfolk. He attained the rating of U.S. Navy-aviation structural mechanic petty officer second class.
After he was discharged, Mr. and Mrs. St. John moved to Clinton, then to Harvard. During this time he acquired his journeyman plumbing license and worked for R.L. Wood Plumbing and Heating Company in Still River, Massachusetts, for 13 years. He began work for the Department of Defense at Fort Devens, Massachusetts, in 1966 as a plumber. He became certified as an operator of drinking water treatment plants and wastewater treatment plants. He was supervisor of water and sewage treatment facilities at Fort Devens from 1978 to 1988. He retired in 1988.
He and his wife moved to Island Pond in November of 1989, where he served as a member of the town sewer commission. He joined the Brighton Snowmobile Club and served as the ticket chairman for six years. He was also a groomer operator for two years. He held membership with the American Legion Post #80 of Island Pond.
Throughout his life he enjoyed hunting, fishing, camping, hiking, reading, target shooting, listening to country music, and watching the Red Sox or Boston Bruins on TV with his children. However, he never hesitated to tell anyone about the five best relaxing vacations he ever had which were experienced aboard the Heritage, a coasting schooner out of Rockland, Maine, with captain’s Doug and Linda Lee.
As a charter member of the Harvard Sportsman Club, he spent many hours helping to get the club started. When the club finally bought land, he worked on the rifle ranges and later installed plumbing in the clubhouse. He was a member of the first club pistol team. At the annual turkey shoots, he and his children worked the trap shoot for many years. He was a lifetime member of the Harvard Sportsman Club and a lifetime member of the NRA.
He especially enjoyed hiking through the woods with his dogs, Mr. Bean and Midnite.
He is survived by his wife Claire St. John of Island Pond; by his children: William V. St. John and his wife, Regina, of Hudson, Massachusetts, Robert St. John and his fiancé, Sarah Ostholthoff, of Franklin, Massachusetts, Richard St. John of Saltsburg, Pennsylvania, Marie St. John-Noonan and her husband, Marty, of Litchfield, Connecticut, and Louise St. John of Lancaster, Pennsylvania; by his grandchildren: Katelyn Gleason, Billy St. John, Kevin Girard, Kyle St. John, Keith St. John, Jennifer St. John, Heather St. John, Joseph St. John, Christine Noonan, Casey Noonan, Robert Artus and Alex Artus; by his great-grandchildren: Jack E. Gleason and Hayden St. John; by his siblings: Helen Wood, Yvonne Hendrickson and her husband, John, and Pauline Savaria and her husband, Bertrand; by his sisters-in-law: Barbara St. John and Shirley St. John; and by his good friends: Maurice Barnes, Gerry and Kathy Savaria, and Dorothy Allen.
He was predeceased by his sisters: Marcelle Murphy, Frances Wood, Elsie Rose St. John, and Marie Conroy; by his brothers: Paul St. John and Alfred St. John; a beloved daughter-in-law Carol (Kelly) St. John, gone too soon; and brothers-in-law: Donald E. Wood, Roger L. Wood, and Jack Conroy.
Funeral services were held on February 13 at St. James Catholic Church in Island Pond where a Mass was celebrated. Spring interment will be in St. Mary’s Cemetery in Claremont, New Hampshire. Should friends desire, contributions in his memory may be made to the American Legion Post #80, 60 Railroad Street, Island Pond, Vermont 05846, or to the Matre Dei Parish, 191 Clermont Terrace, Newport, Vermont 05855
John L. Willey
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, 58, of Newport died peacefully on February 10, 2017 surrounded by his wife and children.
He was born on November 14, 1958, in St. Albans to Avis Billado. On February 2, 2002, he married Nanette Meunier who survives him.
He was a highly decorated retired disabled veteran who served in the Army and National Guard for 28 years altogether. He was stationed abroad in Korea, Germany, Saudi Arabia, and Iraq. He held a lifetime membership at the VFW Post #798 of Newport.
He loved fishing, hunting, being outdoors, playing cards, watching channel 3 news, woodworking, spending time with his little buddy Jayden, and chilling with his dogs Harley and Chopper.
He is survived by his wife Nanette Meunier-Willey of Newport; by his daughters: Jessica Sheltra and her husband, Matthew, of Derby, Evelina Lacasse and her husband, Jeremy Sr., of North Troy, Amanda Paxton and her husband, Kam, of Ottawa, Ontario, and Roxann Downing of Newport; and by his son Joseph Paxton and his wife, Chelsey, of Newport; by his grandchildren: Katie, Jeremy Jr., and Colten Lacasse, and Jayden Paxton (his little buddy); by his mother Avis Billado and her companion, Junior, of Enosburg; his twin sister Joan Aither and her husband, Eric, of Hyde Park; by his brothers: Jeff Willey and his wife, Vicky, of Westmore, Mark Willey and his wife, Cindy, of Barton, and by his sister Shirleen Willey and her companion, Allen, of Evansville; and by many nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends.
Services will be held at 11 a.m. on Friday February 17, at the Newport Baptist Church. Should friends desire, contributions in his memory may be made to the Orleans-Essex VNA and Hospice, Inc., 46 Lakemont Road, Newport, Vermont 05855.
Ruth Madeline Barron
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, 103, died on January 30, 2017, at the Ethan Allen Residence in Burlington.
She was sharp of wit and mind, and occasionally of tongue when the occasion warranted it, to the end. She died in her sleep with excellent care, in pleasant surroundings that she had called home for the last four years.
Ms. Barron was born in January of 1914 in Barton. She attended Barton Graded School, Barton High School, and the University of Vermont, graduating with a doctorate in history in 1936. For the next ten years, she worked and attended (off and on) Simmons College in Boston, Massachusetts, where she graduated in 1946, with a master’s degree in science.
Her life’s work took her to several cities east of the Mississippi River, where she worked at different times with children, young adults, adults, and seniors in special care facilities. Ms. Barron retired at the age of 70 and moved to Burlington to be close to family members.
An avid reader all her life, she especially enjoyed mystery and detective novels and read about the cities and countries to which she traveled. She traveled throughout the world with Venice and Russia, in that order, being her two favorite destinations, both of which she visited several times. Her last trip abroad was to Brazil in October 2003 at the age of 89 to attend the wedding of her great nephew.
With these interests, Ms. Barron paid little attention to television, with the exception of news and baseball, specifically, the Boston Red Sox. She was a huge fan and knew all the team members, their statistics, and a great deal about their opponents over the years. She enjoyed classical music and visits to Manhattan to attend theater productions and to visit museums.
She is survived by her two nieces: Carley Stevens-McLaughlin, and her children: Cassandra Townshend, and Calista Freitag and their families; and Rowena Drown, and her children: Rhonda Coates, Jarrett Drown, and Harley Drown and their families. She is also survived by her two nephews: Graydon Stevens and Larry Stevens, and his two children Tinah Whitcomb, and Eric Stevens, and their families.
She was predeceased by her sisters, Dorothy Barron, Betty Hebert, and Priscilla Stevens Sharp.
Allen Lee Charland Sr.
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, 70, died January 28, 2017, in Vergennes, surrounded by his loving family and loyal friends Dick Eddie and Bob Manny.
Mr. Charland was born June 20, 1946, in Newport, to Bernard H. and Madeline (Judd) Charland. He lived briefly on his grandparents’ Judd’s farm after a fire destroyed the family home in Morgan. This is where he acquired his love of farming and trucking. The remainder of his childhood was spent in West Charleston with his natural family. At the age of 50, Mr. Charland earned his GED, which he was most proud of. He loved to put models together with his grandson Tyler, enjoyed listening to country music, and most of all loved fishing with his grandchildren.
Mr. Charland lived with his loving daughter Nicki and her husband, Kurt, the last few months of his life, where he enjoyed making jams, helping in the kitchen, and playing cards. He loved his grandchildren, Sean, Andrew, JR, Alexis, Paige, Tyler, and Dante, with all his heart.
In the last months of his life his most loving granddaughter Alexis spent every day with him and during this time he was introduced to Snap Chat and Facebook. His great-grandson Jack spent many of these days with him as well. He thought the world of Jack, as well as his loyal cat, Petey.
He is survived by his loving sons: Sid Sumner and his wife, Carol, of Monkton, Charles Sumner and his wife, Debbie, of Bridport, Sam Charland and his wife, Maureen, of Norwich, Connecticut, and Bernard of Burlington; his loving daughters Nicki DeGraaf and her husband, Kurt, of Vergennes, Angeline of Burlington, and Bernadette of Bristol. He is also survived by his sister-in-law Pat Charland of Newport; brother-in-law Gary Major of North Carolina; and by several nieces and nephews.
He was predeceased by his wife, Dianna (Mayo) Charland; his daughter Kimberly Charland; his parents; and by siblings Robert Charland, Bonnie (Charland) Major, and Jimmy Charland.
A celebration of Mr. Charland’s life will be held in the spring at Clark Cemetery in Morgan, with his friends and family.
Memorial contributions can be made to Project Independence/?Elderly Services, Inc., 112 Exchange Street, Middlebury, Vermont 05753.
Dawson D. Green
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, 71, of Derby, died on February 1, 2017, at Bel-Aire Center in Newport.
He was born on March 3, 1945, in Derby. He was the son of Earl J. and Cora B. (Trucott) Green.
Mr. Green worked as a farmhand in earlier years then went on to work in the woods.
He is survived by his brother Hubert Green and his wife, Sherry; his sister-in-law Mary Green; by many nieces and nephews; and by his best friend Lucy the beagle.
He is predeceased by his parents; and by three brothers: Dale, Waldo, and Roland Green.
Per Mr. Green’s wishes, there will be no services.
Kay Lafoe Harding
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, 70, died at her home in Alliance, Nebraska, on January 17, 2017, after a long illness.
She was born in Alliance on June 16, 1946, where she spent her early years. Then in the tenth grade, her parents moved to Laramie, Wyoming, where she finished high school and then attended the University of Wyoming, and got her degree in physical education.
Her son, Trent Ackerson, was born in Laramie, and then they moved to Tucson, Arizona, where she met Richard Lafoe from Derby Line. They got married in Laramie and moved to Morgan, and then to Holland. Their son Alex was born when they lived in Holland.
Ms. Harding was a self-employed bookkeeper and income tax preparer for several businesses in the area and worked with the weatherization program for many years. She was active in many community activities. She started the Morgan Red Cross Swim Project at Seymour Lake, chaired the first Morgan Green Up Day, was a member of the “Dizzy Dames” Home Dem. Club, and volunteered at the Morgan Elementary School.
When she moved to Holland she did not stop. Ms. Harding was the Holland delinquent tax collector and a representative for the town with the North Country Supervisory Union. She coached the majorettes at North Country Union High School, worked with migrant education in the area and ran for state representative for Orleans County. She had other odd jobs at the Long Branch and the East Side Restaurant. She enjoyed, and was proud of, her work with The Border Livestock 4-H Club, as she was a 4-H member in her youth. Her last years of working were at Canaan High School where she mentored several children who continued to be in contact with her for many years.
Ms. Harding was in Vermont for 25 years. Then the Midwest was calling her home, first in Montana, and then back to her roots in Alliance. There she was active in the church and was in the bell choir and volunteered wherever needed in her senior community.
On a more personal note, anyone who knew Ms. Harding was aware that if she had an opinion on something she was not afraid to express it. She was an avid reader and had the uncanny ability to remember everything she read. She was very creative with crafts and was always willing to share her talents with anyone who wanted to learn. Her Christmas wreaths were outstanding and she sent them to all her family. She was an avid gardener and had the most beautiful flowerbeds. Her animals meant the world to her, especially Anuke. Spending time by a nice fire in the evenings was her comfort and relaxation.
Ms. Harding had an eclectic variety of friends and if you were fortunate to be one of them you got to know the special person she was and the big heart she had.
She was predeceased by her mother, Ellinor Miller Harding; her father, Perry Harding; and recently by her older brother Perry “Butch” Harding; leaving her younger brother Greg Harding.
She is survived by her two sons: Trent Ackerson and his wife, Stacy, of Almont, Colorado, and Alex Lafoe, of Gunnison, Colorado; her grandchildren: Trent Ackerson Jr. and his friend, Stacie Bingham, Cody Ackerson, Josh Ackerson, and Bruce and Birke Lafoe, all of Gunnison. She loved all of her boys unconditionally. She is also survived by nieces and nephews.
She will be sadly missed and fondly remembered by many. Rest in peace and love.
Linda R. Herman
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Linda R. Herman, 73, of Brownington, died on January 27, 2017, in Newport.
She was born on April 29, 1943, in Newport, a daughter to Howard and Vivian (Joslyn) Coapland.
On May 4, 1962, she married Allan Herman, who predeceased her on October 11, 2016.
She liked to crochet and knit, going to Florida with her husband, having her grandchildren stay overnight, and playing cards. She loved flowers and birds, and liked cooking for her family.
She is survived by her children: Mary Maclure and her husband, Marcel, Penny White and her husband, Bruce, Allan Herman Jr. and his companion, Melissa McElroy, and by her son Allan’s stepdaughter Linda Bryce and her husband, Ed. She is also survived by her grandchildren: Brandon, Nicholas, and Jonathan Maclure and his wife, Tia, Tonya White, Vanessa White and her boyfriend, Jason Joyal, Hillary White and her boyfriend, Chris LaBounty, Keith and Emily Herman; and by her great-grandchildren: Alexander and Elijah Maclure; by her in-laws, Barbara Wright and her husband, Ross, Frances Fletcher, Norman Herman, Wendal Herman and his wife, Nancy; by several nieces and nephews; by her very close friend Janice Glasson; and by the two who called her gram, Melanie and Dylan Gagnon.
She was predeceased by her brother-in-law Roger Fletcher; and sister-in-law Pat Herman.
Interment will be held in the Coventry Village Cemetery in the spring.
Harriet Urie King
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, 90, died at her home in West Glover on February 5, 2017.
She was born in Andersonville in the town of Glover on June 5, 1926, to Ernest and Mae (Corner) Urie. She attended graded school in Andersonville and graduated from Craftsbury Academy. After high school she worked in a children’s hospital in Haverstraw, New York.
On August 25, 1948, she married Donald King and they were married for 68 years. They lived for 30 years on the King family farm, then moved to their home on King Hill.
In addition to her husband, Mrs. King is survived by her four children: Evelyn and David Kennison of Irasburg, Wayne and Denise King of Williamstown, Dean and Patricia King of Burlington, and Gregory and Rhonda King of Lyndonville; eight grandchildren; and eight great-grandchildren. She also leaves a brother, Bernard Urie of Orleans; a sister, Beverly Grant of Barre; and two sisters-in-law: Pearl Urie of West Glover and Ellen Urie of Canaan, Connecticut. She was predeceased by a daughter Donalie Jean; brothers: John, Edwin, and Howard; and by a sister, Mary Ellen Knapp.
Mrs. King was a member of the West Glover Church and the Willing Workers.
She loved watching the birds all year long, and enjoyed her gardens and the many flowers around her home. She took great pleasure in her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and loved the many family gatherings held in their home.
Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, February 15, at the West Glover Church with the Reverend Evelyn Coup officiating. Friends may call at the church from 10 a.m. until the hour of the funeral. Spring interment will be in Westlook Cemetery in Glover. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the West Glover Church, 16 Davio Place, West Glover, Vermont 05875. Online condolences can be made at curtis-britch.com.
Shirley L. Pearson
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, 77, of Barton, died on February 3, 2017, at her home.
She was born on May 30, 1939, in Greensboro, to Donald and Ellen (Stearns) Willey. She married Cliff Pearson, who predeceased her.
She was a caregiver at the Gennis Nursing Home in Morrisville for many years where she retired. Mrs. Pearson enjoyed being with people, going for rides on back country roads with her husband, and stopping at local eating places for lunch. She also was an avid reader and loved playing cards with family and friends.
She is survived by her siblings: Virginia Richardson and her husband, Don, Linda Smith and her husband, Richard, Jeannette Guyette, and Sylvia Gates; and by her special family: Buck, Sheree, Linz, and Wes Parker. She is also survived by her very good friend, Julie McKay; as well as her close friend and caregiver Brenda Lanou. She was predeceased by her son Donald Chabot; by her brother Frank; sister Evelyn Kellog; and by her nephews Donald Marckres and David Ostrout.
A memorial service will be held from 1 to 2 p.m. on Saturday, February 11, at the Curtis-Britch-Converse-Rushford Funeral Home, 12 Elm Street, in Barton.
Should friends desire, contributions in her memory may be made to the Northeast Kingdom Home Care, P.O. Box 250, Newport, Vermont 05855.
Paul Stanley Winship
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, 81, of Lowell, died on November 25, 2016, at his home.
He was born on September 7, 1935, in Fairfax, the only child of Stanley Sylvester Winship and Frances Matilda Cross. His family moved to Essex Junction where they lived and worked on the Whitcomb farm for many years. He graduated in 1954 from Essex High School where he played on the baseball and basketball teams.
Mr. Winship joined the Vermont Air National Guard in 1956 where he served honorably as a full-time technician until 1986. His 29 years of service included tours in the base supply complex and the motor vehicle section. He also enjoyed an active participation in Vermont Air National Guard volunteer activities. He served as a member of the technician recognition committee, and was a member of the Vermont Air National Guard rifle and pistol team, where he won many medals and trophies, of which he was very proud. He was also selected for driver/?escort duty for many dignitaries who visited the Guard during his career. Mr. Winship retired from the Guard with the rank of master sergeant.
In his free time Mr. Winship enjoyed wildlife photography, camping, fishing, hunting, competitive rifle and pistol shooting, archery, gunsmithing, and car restoration and repair. He was a member of the Green Mountain Corvette Club where he won first- and third-place trophies for the 1967 Corvette that he bought and fully restored. He participated in and won trophies in many rifle, pistol, and archery competitions at various fish and game clubs. His hunting and fishing took him to Canada and Maine as well as to Pennsylvania and Wyoming. He loved the peacefulness and solitude of the unspoiled great outdoors, which is why he moved to Lowell, in 1988, where he bought a deer camp and renovated it to become his home and mountain getaway.
He is survived by his only child, Kathy Brady, and her husband, James C. Brady, of Essex Junction; as well as his five grandchildren who he enjoyed spending holidays and special occasions with: Dylan, Rory, and Danielle Brady of Essex Junction, Hagen Brady now living in Washington State, and Sahra Brady and her husband, Andres Velasquez, of Los Angeles, California. In May of 2015 he welcomed his first great-grandson, Matias Velasquez, who came to visit Vermont from California and met his great-grandpa in October 2015.
A memorial for family and friends is being considered for a date to be announced later. Should friends desire, contributions in his memory may be made to the American Diabetes Association, P.O. Box 11454, Alexandria, Virginia 22312
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