Richard Chase

Richard C. Chase

Richard C. Chase, 80, of Newport died on February 17, 2013, at his home.

He was born June 24, 1932, in Barton, a son of Charles and Josephine (Thompson) Chase.  He married Grace Mary Davis, who predeceased him on December 24, 1996.

Mr. Chase was employed by Elmwood Dairy as a delivery man and mechanic for 23 years.  He enjoyed hunting, mechanic work, and woodworking.  He and his wife traveled to Florida, Ohio, and Long Island, New York, to visit relatives.

He is survived by his children:  Gary Chase and his wife, Corlene, of Ashtabula, Ohio, and Douglas Chase of Derby; by his grandson Cody Chase; by his stepgrandchildren:  Jason, Celeste, Krystal, and Devin Messier, and Corbett Lee; by his brothers and sisters:  Robert Chase and his wife, Edith, of Long Island, Larry Chase and his friend, Beverly White, Phyllis Kennison, and Patricia Herman and her husband, Norman, all of Evansville.

He was predeceased by an infant brother and sister.

Funeral services will be held at 7 p.m. on Thursday, February 21, at the Curtis-Britch-Converse-Rushford Funeral Home at 4670 Darling Hill Road in Newport with the Reverend Richard Whitehill officiating.  Friends may call at the funeral home on Thursday from 5 p.m. until the hour of the funeral.  Spring interment will be in the Brownington Center Cemetery.

Should friends desire, contributions in his memory may be made to the American Cancer Society, Vermont Division, Inc., 55 Day Lane, Williston, Vermont 05495.

Online condolences may be sent to the family through the funeral home website at www.curtis-britch.com.

Barbara Helen Hudson

Barbara Helen Hudson, 86, passed away peacefully at the Union House Nursing Home on February 18, 2013.  She was born on June 19, 1925, in Lyndonville, the daughter of the late William Edgar Kellaway and Bertha (Fowler) Kellaway.

She attended graded school in Lyndonville and was a 1943 graduate of Lyndon Institute.  She resided for the majority of her life in Manchester Center and Berlin Corners with her late husband of 62 years, Noah Wallace Hudson.  They retired in 1998 and moved back to Lyndonville, where they both had a strong sense of community, loyal friends, and family.  A devout Episcopalian, she loved her family and lived her life very quietly for them.

Mrs. Hudson was pre-deceased by her brother, Edger William Kellaway.  She is survived by her nephew, Peter Kellaway and his wife, Christina, and daughter, Charli, as well as many other nieces, nephews, and cousins throughout Vermont, Quebec, and Ontario.

There will be no calling hours or funeral.  There will be a spring internment at Pine Grove Cemetery with a date and time to be announced.
 In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Pope Frontier Animal Society.  Online condolences may be sent to the family through the funeral home website at www.curtis-britch.com.

Lois Morin

Lois Morin

Lois Morin, 81, of Jay died on February 12, 2013.  She survived her husband, Roger, of 62 years, by 27 days.

She was born on March 29, 1931, in Stamford, Connecticut, the daughter of John and Ruth Spielman.  She grew up in Connecticut with her six brothers and two sisters.  After high school, she married Roger and started a family.  They moved to Vermont in 1969, where they raised their six children.

Mrs. Morin took great pride in her family.  It was hard for any visitor to enter her house without being taken through her collection of pictures.  One by one, she would take you down the line of all six kids’ graduation pictures, and if you had the time it didn’t stop there, she would also take you through the pictures of the grand kids and great-grand kids. She loved little kids and adored her many grandchildren and great-grandchildren.  Even in her later years, her face would light up at the sight of a baby and you often heard her say, “Now, who is this little one?” followed by, “Oh, isn’t he or she a cutie” and then a little giggle.  There is no denying her love of children.

She also loved playing cards of any kind and especially bingo.  She took great pride in her winnings no matter who the opponent may have been and was considered by many as an excessively lucky lady.  During her 40-plus years in Jay, she was involved with the Jay Volunteer Fire Department bingo and the American Legion Ladies Auxiliary.  She and her husband enjoyed their travels throughout the U.S. and Europe, including their many trips with Community Circle.

She is survived by her six children:  Jean Janci of Nashville, Tennessee, Donna Morin of Nashville, Kim Starr of Tucson, Arizona, Jo-Ann Chicoine of Suffolk, Virginia, Margaret Hartman and her husband, Bill, of Derby, and Roger (Chip) Morin Jr. of Troy.  She had 15 grandchildren:  Jennifer Royea, Aaron Janci, Meghan Janci, Carolyn Patenaude, Katie Holt, Amanda Trono, Chad Chicoine, Onalee Hopkins, Ashley Juliano, Lee-Ann Cotner, Mitchell Hartman, Tyler Starr, Nicholas Leithead, Hanna Morin, and Andrew Morin; and 14 great-grandchildren.  She is also survived by her brothers:  Robert and his wife, Lois, and Charles and his wife, Sylvia; her sisters-in-law:  Patricia and Mary Spielman; her brother-in-law Leo and his wife, Kathe Morin; her brother-in-law Albert Morin and his wife, Kathleen; and by her sisters-in-law:  Blanche Sullivan, Carmen Scofield, Patricia Valley and Leni Morin.  She was predeceased by her husband Roger; and by her brothers and sisters:  Bill, John, Richard, Jean, Evelyn and David.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, Vermont Chapter, Martha Richardson, 300 Cornerstone Drive, Suite 128, Williston, Vermont 05495; or to the North Troy American Legion Post #28, Attention Richard Berthiaume, 254 Dominion Avenue, North Troy, Vermont 05859; or to the Jay Volunteer Fire Department, 157 Revoir Flat Road, Jay, Vermont 05859.

A combined graveside service will be held for both Mr. and Mrs. Morin on Saturday, June 15, at 11 a.m. at the St. Ignatius Cemetery in Lowell.

Online condolences may be sent to the family through the funeral home website at www.curtis-britch.com.

Dale Douglas Paul

Dale Douglas Paul, 66, a retired educator at Missisquoi Valley Union High School, died on February 8, 2013, at the Northwestern Medical Center.

Born in Syracuse, New York, on July 29, 1947, she was the daughter of William Douglas and the late Jeannette (Ernst) Douglas.

She graduated from Syracuse University and advanced training in education at the University of New Hampshire.  She was a lifelong educator, who taught in the Jamesville-Dewitt School District in New York, and the Glover Community School and Barton Graded School in Vermont.  She moved to St. Albans in 1987 and then taught at Missisquoi Valley Union High School for 15 years.  Her special love for literature and learning inspired many of her students, and she also shared her gift for bringing stories to life with her family and friends.

Survivors include her father, William Douglas, of Marcellus, New York; her brother Bruce Douglas and his wife, Betsy, of Syracuse; their sons:  Andrew and Alex Douglas; and her cousins Alison Kelly and Grant Alpern of Atlanta, Georgia.

Services will be announced at a later date.

Those planning an expression of sympathy are asked to consider the Franklin County Humane Society, 30 Sunset Meadows, St. Albans, Vermont 05478.

Private messages of condolence to the Douglas family are welcome at www.healdfuneralhome.com.

Roger Shaffer

Roger L. Shaffer

Roger L. Shaffer, 74, of Barton died on February 12, 2013, at his home.

He was born on April 12, 1938, in Baltimore, Maryland, a son of Wade and Georgeanna (Kidwell) Shaffer.

He married the former Dale Allen who predeceased him.

Mr. Shaffer was owner of the Hangman Frame Shop in Hardwick.  He worked for Goodspeed Opera House in East Haddam, Connecticut, where he created sets for stage productions.  He also worked for the Home Depot in Connecticut.  He moved to this area in 1990 where he was very involved with the restoration of the Barton Memorial Building theater.  He also created the Branford Festival in Branford, Connecticut.  As a young man, he and his first wife, Ursel, traveled cross-country showing the Batik paintings that they created.

He is survived by his children:  Erik Shaffer of Avon, Connecticut, and Wendy Shaffer of New Haven, Connecticut; by his grandchildren:  David and Sydney Shaffer; and by his stepchildren:  Laurel, Heather and Sam of Connecticut, and Jesse of New York.  He is also survived by his former wife, Ursel Shaffer, of Middletown, Connecticut.  He was predeceased by a brother, George Shaffer.

Funeral services were held on February 16 in Barton.

Should friends desire, contributions in his memory may be made to the Barton Memorial Building Restoration and Revitalization Committee, in care of Patsy Tompkins, 19 Village Square, Barton, Vermont 05822.

Online condolences may be sent to the family through the funeral home website at www.curtis-britch.com.

John Washburn

John E. Washburn

 John E. Washburn, 71, of Newport died on Monday, February 11, 2013, in Burlington.

The son of Jay and Aline Washburn, he was born on December 12, 1941, in San Luis Obispo, California.

Mr. Washburn spent two years of his childhood in Saudi Arabia while his father worked for Saudi Aramco.  Boy Scouting was life-forming for Mr. Washburn; he became the first scout in his troop to earn the rank of Eagle Scout and to be inducted into the Order of the Arrow, Scouting’s National Honor Society.  As the recipient of several science fair awards during his high school years, he had dreams of attending the California Institute of Technology to study aeronautics or nuclear chemistry.  However, while working at Borden Chemical as a chemist during his junior college years, a conversion experience changed the path of his life.  Subsequently, he completed his undergraduate studies at Whitworth College in Spokane, Washington, and went on to graduate from the San Francisco Theological Seminary in 1970 with a doctor of ministry.

Mr. Washburn thrived on designing creative Christian education for youths and adults.  He shared those skills at Scarritt College in Nashville, Tennessee, as an associate professor of Christian education, and on the staff of churches in Oklahoma City, Stillwater Oklahoma, and Shreveport, Louisiana.  He was always adventuresome, so when called to serve a church in Alaska, he drove a small U-Haul truck 4,000 miles to Fairbanks.  It was there that he took the first steps toward formal ordination; he was ordained in 1987 as an Elder in the United Methodist Church.  The Reverend Doctor John Washburn served as the pastor of churches in Anchorage and Sitka, Alaska.

In 1988, he left church ministry to develop software.  His business, Software Sharing Ministries, catered to individual needs of churches and church schools.

He met Sheryl Marie Reinke in Sitka, and they were married on July 22, 1988.  Adventure and exploring continued as they lived in Tacoma Washington; Sterling, Colorado; Juneau, Alaska; Moscow, Idaho; and Newport.

Everyone who knew Mr. Washburn experienced his disarming whit and sense of humor.  He challenged the status quo and had a huge heart for the underdog.

He is survived by his wife Sheryl of Newport: his sister Jeane Avilla of Union City, California; and by his nephews:  Jimmie and Johnnie Harrison, also of California.  He was predeceased by his parents.

A service celebrating his life was held on February 16 in Newport.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to St. Brendan’s Episcopal Church, 4207 Mendenhall Loop Road, Juneau, Alaska 99801; or to the charity of one’s choice.

“And I heard a voice from heaven saying, ‘Write this:  Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord henceforth.  Blessed indeed,’ says the Spirit, ‘that they may rest from their labors, for their deeds follow them!’”  — Revelation 14:13

Online condolences may be sent to the family through the funeral home website at www.curtis-britch.com.

Ruth Wright

 Ruth M. Wright

 Ruth M. Wright, 88, of Derby died on February 13, 2013.

She was born in Asbestos, Quebec, on August 6, 1924, to Walter and Sarah Carson McKeage.  When she was a small child her mother died, and she went to live with her uncle and aunt Ernest and Nellie Willey of Mt. Vernon Street in Newport.  She had two sisters, Barbara and Irene, who predeceased her.  She graduated from Newport High School.

She married William F. Wright in 1946.  Mr. Wright went into the service shortly after high school and Mrs. Wright went to work for the Bell Telephone switchboard.  She spent many years as a telephone operator.  She also worked at American Maple where she made great friends.

Mr. and Mrs. Wright had a daughter, Debra.  Mrs. Wright was the greatest mom in the world.  Debra married Reginald Judd, and they had a son, Jared, who was Mrs. Wright’s pride and joy.   Mrs. Wright was also known as Gram Ruth to the many children she took care of through the years.

She was predeceased by her husband, William, in 2000 and her son-in-law Reginald in 2001.

She leaves behind her daughter Deb Judd and grandson Jared and his wife, Jessica Judd, all from Derby; her niece Linda McCauley from Ontario; her nephew Bradley from Massachusetts; her great friend Sherry Labounty from Derby; and Deb and Jim Kinney from Derby Line, who have become part of the family.  She will be greatly missed and remembered with never-ending love.

Should friends desire, in lieu of flowers, Mrs. Wright would appreciate donations to the Frontier Animal Shelter, 4473 Barton Orleans Road, Orleans, Vermont 05860, or Pets of the Kingdom, care of Vicky Connor, 2907 Shilafoux Road, Brownington, Vermont 05860.

Online condolences may be sent to the family through the funeral home website at www.curtis-britch.com.

Margaret L. Caouette

Margaret L. Caouette

Margaret L. Caouette, 89, of Holliston, Massachusetts, formerly of Island Pond, died on February 10, 2013, in Framingham, Massachusetts.

She was born January 8, 1924, in Brockville, New York, a daughter of Joseph and Margaret (Foy) Etheze.  On February 29, 1944, she married Bertrand Caouette, who predeceased her in 2002.

Mrs. Caouette was a resident of Island Pond for over 70 years.  She was a member of the American Legion Post #80 Auxiliary, the Disabled American Veterans Auxiliary, and the North Country Hospital Auxiliary in Newport.

She is survived by her children:  Thomas H. Caouette and his wife, Nancy, of Cordova, Maryland, Theodore Caouette and his wife, Louise, of Stark, New Hampshire, and George Caouette and his wife, Linda, of Holliston, Massachusetts; by eight grandchildren; ten great-grandchildren; and by two sisters:  Kathleen Twofoot of Island Pond and Helene Gagne of Brentwood, New Hampshire.

She was predeceased by four brothers and three sisters.

Funeral services will be held at 1 p.m. on Thursday, February 14, at the St. James Parish Center in Island Pond where a Mass will be celebrated.  Spring interment will be in Lakeside Cemetery in Island Pond.

Should friends desire, contributions in her memory may be made to the charity of one’s choice.

Online condolences may be sent to the family through the funeral home website at www.curtis-britch.com.

Neil T. Drew

 Well known news reporter Neil T. Drew, 71, died on January 30, 2013, at the Fletcher Allen Health Care Facility in Burlington.

He was born in Newport on February 24, 1941, a son of Milton W. and Pearl Tabor Drew.

In 2009 he married Darlene Wardner.  They divorced in 1990, but they remained lifelong friends.  She and her husband, Gene, reside in Shelburne.

Surviving are his ex-wife, Darlene; daughter Kimberly DeMattio; granddaughter Amanda DeMattio of Colchester; stepson Michael Dana of Mt. Laurel, New Jersey; his brother Darryl Drew and his wife, Rita, of Scotia, New York; nephew Dennis Drew and his wife, Karen, and their son Leo of Rochester, New York; niece Laurinda Drew (Scott) and their children Bryan and Jennifer, all of Clifton Park, New York; his brother- and sister-in-law Lowell and Cherrill Tennyson of Malone, New York; and sister- and brother-in-law Margo Tennyson (Chris) Sttromer.

A private prayer service has been planned for the family.  The family received friends at the Spaulding Funeral home on February 8 and February 9.

Albert Flory

Albert Arthur Flory Sr.

 Albert A. Flory Sr., 92, formerly of Newport, a resident of Maple Lane Nursing Home in Barton, died at Fletcher Allen Medical Center in Burlington on Thursday, February 7, 2013.

He was born on March 13, 1920, in Fair Haven.

Mr. Flory was a 1938 graduate of Fair Haven High School.  He attended Norwich University, earning a bachelor of science degree in electrical engineering in 1942.  While attending Norwich, he developed an interest in horses, serving as captain of the riding team and being a member of the cavalry.  He was known as “Zeke” to his friends at Norwich.

Upon graduation, commissioned as a second lieutenant in the Army, he served his country in the Signal Corps during World War II in England, France and Germany between 1943 and 1946.  Prior to being shipped to the European theater, he met and married second lieutenant Esther Flory, RN, in New Orleans, Louisiana.  They both served overseas.

Upon returning to the U.S. after the war, Mr. Flory became a captain in the Vermont Army Reserves.  From 1946 to 1953, he was employed as manager of the electrical division of the Vermont Marble Co. in Proctor.  He also served as a volunteer fireman in the town of Proctor.

Moving to Newport in 1953, Mr. Flory became district manager for Citizens Utilities Electrical Division.  For 33 years, he served his company and community with energy and dedication.

During his long tenure at Citizens, his local and state contributions included serving as president of Newport’s Chamber of Commerce and Rotary Club.  He served as a member of North Country Hospital’s board of directors and as president of the Newport Country Club.  Beyond his local community, he served as state president of the Vermont Electrical Association and president of the Northeastern Vermont Development Association.  Most recently, he served as a volunteer for the radiology department at North Country Hospital before moving to Maple Lane Nursing Home.

A true Vermonter, Mr. Flory’s love of the Northeast Kingdom was equaled by his love of golf and his enjoyment of skiing.  His involvement with skiing led to his leadership in the modernization of the distribution of electricity to Jay Peak Ski Area.  He was actively involved with Jay Peak ski racing and ski instructors’ programs. He spent many weekends at Jay Peak skiing with family and friends.

Hunting, fishing and driving the back roads of Vermont were also favorite pastimes.  Upon retirement in 1986, Mr. and Mrs. Flory enjoyed visiting family and vacationing in Florida.

Mr. Flory was predeceased by his parents, William and Melvina Flory; his sister Loraine Thompson; his brother Joseph Flory; and by his beloved wife, Esther Marie Flory.

He leaves four children:  Ann Marie Flory of Simpsonville, South Carolina, Haidee Flory of Westminster, Colorado, Sally Field of Telluride, Colorado, and Al Flory Jr. of Etna, New Hampshire.  Grandchildren include:  Lauren M. Wygant of Del Rio, Texas, Aaron Surprenant of Golden, Colorado, Alex Zarrouk of Westminster, Colorado, and Elizabeth and John Flory of Etna.

Some of Mr. Flory’s favorite sayings were, “It’s a great life,” and “It’s not how much you know but what you do with it that counts.” Remembering his words, may God grant him eternal peace.

A Mass was scheduled to be held at St. Mary’s Star of the Sea Catholic Church in Newport on Wednesday, February 13, at 10 a.m.  There will be no calling hours.  A reception for family and friends will take place after the service at the East Side Restaurant.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Vermont Chapter of the American Heart Association, 434 Hurricane Lane, Williston, Vermont 05495.

Online condolences may be sent to the family through the funeral home website at www.curtis-britch.com.

Lawrence Mayhew

 Lawrence “Larry” R. Mayhew

 Lawrence “Larry” R. Mayhew, 54, of North Troy died on February 4, 2013, in Lebanon, New Hampshire.

He was born on March 28, 1958, a son of Gordon and Theresa (Lafond) Mayhew.  On April 10, 1998, he married Lori Decker who survives him.

He was the maintenance supervisor at the Bel-Aire Nursing Home in Newport.  He enjoyed hunting, maple sugaring, and watching NASCAR where his favorite driver was Tony Stewart.  He loved to joke around and was a jack of all trades. He also enjoyed carpentry and mechanic work.

He is survived by his wife, Lori Mayhew, of North Troy; his four children:  Megan Simpson and her husband, Devin, of North Troy, Amanda Effrig and her husband, Mark, of Derby Line, Daniel LaBarron and his wife, Stephanie, of Newport, and Caitlyn LaBarron and Dennis Labbee of North Troy; his grandchildren:  Elizabeth, Marissa, and Noah Simpson, Mark Jr. and Isaac Effrig, and Taylor, Mercedes, and Kadia Labbee; his brothers and sisters:  Roland Mayhew and his wife, Rosemary, of Troy, David Mayhew and his wife, Debbie, of North Troy, Robert Mayhew and his wife, Carla, of Kansas, Eugene Mayhew and his wife, Candy, of North Troy, Terry Decker of Newport, and Annette Brown and her husband, Gordon, of Coventry; and also by several nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by a daughter, Megan LaBarron; his parents Gordon and Theresa Mayhew; and by his nephew Jeremy Mayhew.

A celebration of his life was held on February 8 in Newport.

Should friends desire, contributions may be made in his memory to the Pope Memorial Frontier Animal Shelter, Strawberry Acres, Newport, Vermont 05855; or to the Bel-Aire Nursing Home Activities Committee, 35 Bel-Aire Drive, Newport, Vermont 05855.

Online condolences may be sent to the family through the funeral home website at www.curtis-britch.com.

Regena M. Petersen

Regena M. Petersen, 79, of Holland died on February 4, 2013, in Newport.

She was born on March 7, 1933, in Holland, a daughter of Eugene and Hattie (Judd) Mosher.

She loved to watch NASCAR racing and game shows.  She also enjoyed doing crossword puzzles.

She was a loving and caring mother and grandmother who always enjoyed family visits and gatherings.

She and her first husband, Henry Camber, were married for 15 years.  She later married Robert Petersen.  They were married for 11 years, until his death in 2006.

She is survived by her children:  Robert Camber and his wife, Sara, of Holland, Edith Stabene and her husband, Harvey, of Barre, Mary Petersen of Westminster, Massachusetts, and Robert Petersen Jr. of Gardner, Massachusetts.  She is also survived by several grandchildren and great-grandchildren, by her sisters:  Helen Plante of Derby, and Beulah Paddleford of West Charleston; and by many nieces and nephews.  She was predeceased by her brothers and sisters:  Earl Mosher and his wife, Arlene, Reginald Mosher, and Audry Dunn and Kathleen.

Funeral services were held on February 9 in Newport.  Spring interment will be in Mead Hill Cemetery in Holland.

Should friends desire, contributions in her memory may be made to the Morgan Church Building Fund, 14 Meade Hill, Morgan, Vermont 05853.

Online condolences may be sent to the family through the funeral home website at www.curtis-britch.com.

Clinton Sheehy

 Clinton P. Sheehy Jr.

Clinton P. Sheehy Jr., 75, of Orleans died on February 1, 2013, in Barton.

He was born on September 18, 1937, in Manhattan, New York, a son of Clinton and Margaret (Kulhken) Sheehy Sr.  He spent his younger years at Garden City, Long Island, New York, and enjoyed camping on Lake Panamoka at the lake house.

He was a purchasing agent for Columbia Forest Products for many years, then he was a courier for the Howard National Bank for several years.

Mr. Sheehy enjoyed the Vermont outdoors and was an avid fisherman off the bridge on Lake Memphremagog.  He really enjoyed ice fishing on Echo Lake.  While serving in the Marines, he specialized in meteorology, and after the service he continued that interest as a hobby for the rest of his life.

He is survived by his brothers:  Donald Sheehy and his wife, Peggy, and Bruce Sheehy and his wife, Madeline; and by his close friends Greg Tocci and his wife, Emily, and Marie Jax.

At his request, there will be no visitation or service, and his remains will be scattered on the Vermont soil that he loved so much.

Online condolences may be sent to the family through the funeral home website at www.curtis-britch.com.

Jerald E. Squires

Jerald E. Squires, 73, died on February 3, 2013, at the D.J. Jacobetti Home for Veterans in Marquette, Michigan.

Mr. Squires was born on April 2, 1939, in Barton, a son of the late Basil and Effie (Eastman) Squires.  He retired as a civil engineer from the former K.I. Sawyer Air Force Base.

He is survived by three daughters:  Cindy Squires of Gwinn, Michigan, Debra Westhart and her husband, Greg, of Moody Air Force Base in Georgia and Vicky Sicotte of Gwinn; by nine grandchildren:  Jessica and Joshua Squires, Justin Batcheller, Donald and Edward Motley, Bryana Westhart, Jacquelyn McCoy, John Michael, and Jason Sicotte; by one great-granddaughter, Andriana Revord; by his brother David Squires and his wife, Susan, of Glover; and by niece Michelle Trottier and her husband, Jim, of Wheelock.

He was predeceased by his sisters Louise and Lucille and by his brother Roger.

A memorial service was held on February 8 in the chapel of the D.J. Jacobetti Home for Veterans with the Reverend Ardy Johnson officiating.

Helen Taylor

 Helen Catherine Taylor

Helen Catherine (Connor) Taylor, 85, of Meridian, Idaho, died on February 3, 2013, with her husband, Preston, by her side.

She was residing at Grace Assisted Living in Meridian.

She was born on June 19, 1927, in Newport, a daughter of the late Julia (Flanders) Connor Paquin, and the late George Connor.  She attended South School in Newport and graduated from Newport Center High School in 1945.

On October 2, 1944, she married Preston Augustus Taylor in St. Stephen’s Catholic Church in Winooski.  They made their home in Barton.  Through the years, they also lived in Barre and Montpelier, and in 1977 they moved and made their home in Meridian.

Mrs. Taylor was a homemaker and a loving, devoted mother to her 12 children.  She enjoyed cooking, couponing, reading, gardening, sewing, and knitting.  She also enjoyed traveling and camping.  What she enjoyed most was spending time with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, whom she loved very much.  She loved getting the family all together for birthdays, cookouts, or dinners.

She was a 4-H and Boy Scout leader.  She belonged to Home Dem, TOPS, Catholic Daughters, and most recently with the Meridian Senior Center, Young at Heart, and Morning Light Community.  She was a member of the Holy Apostles Catholic Church.

She worked for the Vermont Department of Education, enjoyed being a Tupperware dealer, and loved running a daycare with her husband.  She loved children and believed in education, always encouraging her children and grandchildren to attend college.  She attended Community College of Vermont and Castleton College, and graduated from Boise State College with a bachelor of arts degree in childhood development at the age of 50.

She is survived by her husband Preston; her children:  Marilyn (Taylor-Reynolds) Bisson, and husband, Rosaire, of Barre, James Taylor and his fiancée, Maureen Tomlin, of Nampa, Idaho, Wayne and his wife, Cathy, of Meridian, Gary and his wife, Jeanne, of Meridian, Joyce (Taylor) Dutil and her husband, Leo, of Barre, Michael and his wife, Debbie, of Boise, Idaho, Jeff and his wife, Yvonne, of Emmett, Idaho, Tim and his wife, Denise, of Meridian, Carole (Taylor) Tucker and her husband, Brent, of Boise, and Cathy (Taylor) Pruett and her friend, Chuck, of Emmett.  She is also survived by 28 grandchildren and 37 great-grandchildren.  She also leaves her brother Robert Connor and his wife, Bernice, of Essex; and her sister Margaret Cushing of Barre; as well as many nieces and nephews.

She was predeceased by two children:  Joseph and William George Taylor.

A vigil and funeral Mass were held at Holy Apostles Catholic Church in Meridian.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in her name to St. Judes Children’s Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, Tennessee 38105; or please support the Giving Tree at Holy Apostles Catholic Church at Christmas in her memory.

Remembrances may be left for the family online at www.accentfuneral.com.

Nicholas Bliven

Nicholas A. Bliven

 Nicholas A. Bliven, 29, beloved son of Laramie Bliven and George Bliven, was suddenly called to heaven to be a special angel on Thursday, January 10, 2013.

He was born in Miami, Florida, lived in Lowell as a child, and came home in February 2012 to start anew with his family in Derby Line.  Although Mr. Bliven had experienced many difficulties in his life, he remained strong, never gave up, and was determined to get well and have a happy life.

He was a kind, loving, gentle man who loved to cook and was hoping to attend the New England Culinary Institute and eventually own his own restaurant.  He also loved to draw and spent much of his time honing those skills.  He had a special connection with his niece Hailey, and they enjoyed playing Xbox, being artistic and just spending time together.

Mr. Bliven had four beautiful children who he loved dearly and two others who he also loved and embraced as his own.  His heart ached every day that he was not with them.  Unfortunately, he had to leave them in Tennessee to get well with the goal of providing them with a better life.  He loved the outdoors, had hiked part of the Appalachian Trail, and always wanted to return and complete the trail from start to finish.  Anyone who really knew him knew they were blessed that he was their friend.

Mr. Bliven is survived by his beautiful children:  Ryleigh, three months; Tristan, two years; Dante, four years; Jaelynn, six years; Trinidee, 13 years; and Andree, 14 years; by his partner, Sabrina Proffitt, of Morristown, Tennessee; by his mother, Laramie Bliven, of Derby Line; his father, George Bliven, and his wife, Cathy, of Port Angeles, Washington; two loving sisters:  Hilary Bliven and her partner, Courtney Forbes, of Homestead, Florida, Sydney Bliven and her partner, Anthony Columbia, of Newport Center; his special niece Hailey Bliven of Derby Line; his maternal grandparents Beryl and Clayton Foss of Sebastian, Florida; his paternal grandfather, Seth I. Bliven, of Sebring, Florida; his uncles:  Glenn Foss, Dale Foss, and Steve Greenbaum; his aunts: Chris Ellen Bliven and Margaret Gandee; his nieces:  Sanya and Gemyah Allen; his nephew Joshua Allen; and a few very special close friends.

There will be no calling hours and a private memorial will be held at a later date for the family.

Should friends desire, contributions in his memory may be made to National Alliance for the Mentally Ill Vermont (NAMI) 162 South Main Street, Waterbury, Vermont 05676-1519.

We will miss you until we meet again, but we are at peace knowing that you are at peace.  We know you will be watching over us from heaven.

Online condolences may be sent to the family through the funeral home website at www.curtis-britch.com.

Fernand O. Bolduc

 We have a lot to be thankful for.  After 95-plus good years, Dad died on the morning of January 3, 2013.

He was born on June 2, 1917.

Although his family was from Cookshire, Quebec, Canada, Dad was actually born in Auburn, Maine, on June 2, 1917.  His parents had come to the U.S. looking for work, leaving the family farm behind for now.  When our dad was approximately age two, they went back to the family farm in Cookshire.  There was one more trip back and forth within a couple of years, but only for a short time.  Dad left school in the seventh grade.  Like his father used say, “that was enough education and there was work to be done on the farm.”  So there was mostly farming in the warmer months and logging in the winter.  Dad even spent time logging in the U.S. over the years.

Sometime during this period of his life, the girl on the farm down the road, our mother Jeanne Carrier, must have caught his eye.  In the late thirties, he went to Hartford, Connecticut, to live with an uncle and work in a factory there.  While he was in Hartford, World War II broke out, he was drafted into the American Army in 1942, and was honorably discharged in 1946.  He didn’t waste time going back to Canada and finding our mother who had been working at a hotel cooking and waitressing.  They were married on June 24, 1946.

Our Mom working at a hotel must have given them the idea because that same year, they purchased a hotel in Lyndonville with another couple.  Within a year, they sold their share and purchased the Valley House Hotel, later called the Valley House Inn, in Orleans, in 1947.  Over the next 33 years, they build many lifelong friendships and memories too numerous to mention.  They would continue to play a part in the Valley House until it was destroyed in a tragic fire in January 1998.

While at the Valley House, they had three boys:  Michel, Frank, and David.  David and Frank would purchase the hotel from them in 1980 with David as manager and Frank as silent partner until its loss in 1998.  Dad and Mom moved back to her family farm in Cookshire and they lived in that area until their passing.  They made frequent trips to Orleans and to many places in Europe and the U.S. visiting their children and family over those retirement years.

Fern and Jeanne would spend 64 years together prior to Mom’s passing at the age of 92 in September 2010.  Both folks lived good lives right up to their passing, so we feel truly blessed.

Dad was predeceased by his brother Raymond and sister Therese.

He has one surviving brother, Noel, who lives in Sherbrooke.  He is also survived by a sister-in-law, Dolores Reid, in Scotland.  He leaves behind his son Michel and daughter-in-law Elaine who live in Texas; their daughters Cynthia and Jessica, as well as Pamela; son Frank who lives in Florida; and son David and daughter-in-law Louise who live in Orleans; and their children Rance and Celeste.  He also leaves behind five great-grandchildren.

There will be no calling hours.

A Mass was celebrated on January 12 at St. Camille Catholic Church in Cookshire, Quebec, with plans to have a family gathering at the spring interment in celebration of their lives.

Glenn Bowen

Glenn M. Bowen

Glenn M. Bowen, 80, of Newport Center died peacefully on Monday, January 7, 2013, at his home, surrounded by his family.

He was born on August 30, 1932, in Newport Center, a son of Frederick and Asenath (O’Brien) Bowen.  In 1950, he graduated from Newport High School.

On July 2, 1955, he married Helen Armstrong, who survives him.

Mr. Bowen was a self-employed farmer for many years and he also drove a school bus for North Country Union High School.  He was a member of the Newport Center Methodist Church.  He loved gardening, maple sugaring, and in his younger years he enjoyed fishing, including ice fishing, camping, traveling, and tinkering around his home, and he did many projects for his family and friends.

He is survived by his wife Helen Bowen of Newport Center; by his children:  Jean Hammond and her husband, Charles, of Newport Center, and Debra M. Bowen and her fiancé, Steve Register, of Live Oak, Florida; by his grandchildren:  Jesse Hammond of North Troy, and Chris Hammond and his wife, Emily, of Newport Center; by his great-grandchildren:  Madison and Tyler; by his sisters:  Lois Rockwell of Newport Center, and Nelda Hodek and her husband, Hank, of Florida; and by many nieces, nephews and cousins.  He was predeceased by his sister, Eunice Koniezny.

Funeral services were held on January 12 in Newport.

Spring interment will be in Newport Center Cemetery on May 25 at 11 a.m.

Should friends desire, contributions in his memory may be made to the Newport Center Methodist Church, care of Charles Drown, 334 Cross Road, Newport Center, Vermont 05857; or to the Orleans-Essex Visiting Nurses Association and Hospice, Inc., 46 Lakemont Road, Newport, Vermont 05855.

Online condolences may be sent to the family through the funeral home website at www.curtis-britch.com.

Niles Gray

Niles O. Gray

Niles O. Gray, 67, of Coventry died peacefully on January 8, 2013, in White River Junction.

He accepted the Lord Jesus Christ as his savior in June 2012 and is now present with the lord.

He was born July 29, 1945, in West Stewartstown, New Hampshire, a son of Earl and Margarett (Edwards) Gray.

On February 10, 1990, he married Monique Boutin, who survives him.

He enlisted into the United States Army where he received the Purple Heart, serving his country during the Vietnam War.  Mr. Gray was an inventory clerk for Ethan Allen Manufacturing for 35 years.

He enjoyed the small farm and the animals that were on it.  He really liked his tractor. He was a family man who enjoyed his children and grandchildren.  He was loved by everyone and always enjoyed the company of his family.

He is survived by his wife, Monique Gray, of Coventry; by his children:  Paul Gray and his wife, Kathy, of Island Pond, Travis Gray of Hawaii, Steve Belley and his companion, Danielle, of Quebec, Gaetan Belley and his wife, Trisha, of Quebec, and Johanne Collins and her husband, Cliff, of Newport Center; by ten grandchildren; by his sisters:  Gleigh Heath and her husband, William, of Island Pond, Anna Johnson of Orleans, Charlotte Gunn of Island Pond, Patricia Gray of St. Johnsbury, Ginny Wing and her husband, Alan, of Island Pond; by his sister-in-law Gunda Gray of Danville; by dear family friend Diane Brindley; and by several nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his daughter Wendy; by his brothers Earl and Glenn Gray; and by his sister Marilyn Wade.

Funeral services were held on January 11 at the Grace Brethren Church in Irasburg with the Reverend Scott Libby officiating.

Should friends desire, contributions in his memory may be made to the VA Medical Center for the Hospice Suite, Building 31, Ground Floor, 215 Main Street, White River Junction, Vermont 05009.

Online condolences may be sent to the family through the funeral home website at www.curtis-britch.com.

 Award of the Army Commendation Medal

The following award is announced: US51546346 Private First Class E3 United States Army Company A 2d Battalion 18th Infantry; Army Commendation Medal with “V” Device August 1966: July 2, 1966: Gray-Niles

Republic of Vietnam

For Heroism: While conducting search and destroy operations in Loc Ninh Province near the Cambodian border, his unit was attacked by a numerically superior insurgent force armed with automatic weapons, small arms, grenades, rocket launchers and mortars.  During this action, he displayed outstanding valor and exemplary courage while inflicting heavy casualties upon the Viet Cong.  With complete disregard for his personal safety, he repeatedly exposed himself to intense hostile fire in order to place highly effective fire upon insurgent positions.  During the entire engagement, the only concern of this outstanding soldier was for successful completion of his mission.  The rapidity and aggressiveness with which he followed the orders of his superiors were in large measure responsible for his company’s achievement.  In repelling the repeated insurgent assaults, he gave material aid to the overwhelming success with which the 2d Battalion, 18th Infantry accomplished its mission. Private First Class Gray’s actions are keeping with the finest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, the 1st Infantry Division, and the United States Army.  By direction of Secretary of the Army, under the provisions of AR 672-5-1.

Fratia and Bill Marsh

Fratia L. Marsh

 Fratia L Marsh, 84, of North Troy died on January 14, 2013.

She was born May 17, 1928, in North Troy to Melvin Dunn and Mary E. Dunn.

She graduated from North Troy High School and the University of Vermont School of Nursing.  She was a clinical instructor for UVM’s school of nursing before moving back to North Troy after marrying William “Bill” Marsh in July of 1955.

Mrs. Marsh was a nurse at the Orleans Hospital before becoming a school nurse responsible for the schools of North Troy, Troy, Jay, Lowell, Westfield, and Newport Center for many years.  She was also a longtime member of the Troy School Board.  She loved her job and cared deeply for her students and her community. She was always willing to help others in the community in any way she could.

She is survived by her son Peter and his wife, Eleanor (Evans) Marsh, of Huntington; her grandchildren Megan and Christopher also of Huntington; her sister Lois Guyette and children David, James, Carol, Robert, and John; her brother James Dunn and his wife; her sister-in-law Muriel Dunn and children Dennis, Cheryl, Robert, Terri, and Judy; several grandnieces and -nephews; her husband’s nephews and nieces Carolyn Marsh, Carmi Michael Marsh and his wife, Pierrette, and Judy Hughs.

She was predeceased by her husband, Bill, less than a week ago.  She stayed strong for him for many years but was ready to leave this earth with him.  Their bond was strong and apparent to all who knew them. Mrs. Marsh was also predeceased by four siblings:  Grover or “Buddy,” Dorothy, Roberta, and Jimmy.

In lieu of flowers, the family would ask that contributions in Mrs. Marsh’s name be made to the Pope Memorial Frontier Animal Shelter, 502 Strawberry Acres, Newport, Vermont 05855, or to North Country Hospital, 189 Prouty Drive, Newport, Vermont 05855.

Funeral services for both Mr. and Mrs. Marsh were scheduled to be held at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, January 16, at the Curtis-Britch-Converse-Rushford Funeral Home at 4670 Darling Hill Road in Newport. Friends may call at the funeral home on Wednesday January 16, 2013 from 9 a.m. until the hour of the funeral. Spring interment will be in Newport Center Cemetery.

Online condolences may be sent to the family through the funeral home website at www.curtis-britch.com.

William Marsh

 William K. “Bill” Marsh

William K. “Bill” Marsh, 89, of North Troy died on Wednesday, January 9, 2013.

He was born on July 23, 1923, in Morrisville, to Carmi R. Marsh and Louise E. Marsh.  He graduated from North Troy High School in 1941.  He was a member of the 1938 North Troy High School state baseball championship team.

Mr. Marsh enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1942, where he served in the 268th Field Artillery Battalion.  He was wounded in Germany in 1944 and discharged in 1945.  He went on to graduate from the Boston University College of Business Administration in 1949.  He held several positions:  cost accounting clerk for Owens Illinois Plywood Company and Green Mountain Power Corporation; a comptroller for Owens Illinois Plywood Company; business manager for the Vermont Department of Forests and Parks; and he also served as Deputy Finance Commissioner and Director of Financial Operations for the state of Vermont from 1961 to 1978.  He retired in 1978 due to ill health.

He was a member of the American Legion, Veterans of Foreign Wars, and Disabled American Veterans.

He is survived by his wife Fratia, who he married in 1955; his son Peter and his wife, Eleanor (Evans) Marsh, of Huntington; his grandchildren:  Megan and Christopher, also of Huntington; his nephews and nieces:  Carolyn Marsh, Carmi Michael Marsh and his wife, Pierrette, and Judy Hughs and husband, Mark; his sister-in-law Lois Guyette and her children:  David, James, Carol, Robert, and John; his brother-in-law James Dunn and his wife; his sister-in-law Muriel Dunn and her children:  Dennis, Cheryl, Robert, Terri, and Judy; and by several grandnieces and nephews.  He was predeceased by two brothers:  Frederick and Carmi W. Marsh.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, January 16, at the Curtis-Britch-Converse-Rushford Funeral Home, at 4670 Darling Hill Road, in Newport.  Friends may call at the funeral home on January 16 from 9 a.m. until the hour of the funeral.

Spring interment will be in Newport Center Cemetery with full military honors.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that contributions in Mr. Marsh’s name be made to the Pope Memorial Frontier Animal Shelter, 502 Strawberry Acres, Newport, Vermont 05855; or to North Country Hospital, 189 Prouty Drive, Newport, Vermont 05855.

Online condolences may be sent to the family through the funeral home website at www.curtis-britch.com.

Ken Powers

Kenneth John Powers

 Kenneth John Powers, 90, of Newport died peacefully on January 10, 2013, at his home.

He was born April 5, 1922, in Derby, a son of Claude and Lena (Ellis) Powers, and also of his stepfather, Ernest Baraw.

He was a veteran of World War II and served in Germany and France in an infantry unit, where he met and married the love of his life, Jacqueline.  They were married for 68 years.  He was an office manager for Nadeau’s Auto Parts and Salvage.  He was employed for H.P. Hood and Sons, and he retired from Waste USA.

He enjoyed hunting and fishing, going to hunting camp with his son Richard and grandson Scott.  He was known as the Old Man of the Mountain.  He also enjoyed gardening, reading on his porch, taking care of his house, and visiting with family.  He would help anyone in need.  Mr. Powers held memberships with St. Mary’s Catholic Church and the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post #798, both of Newport.

He is survived by his wife, Jacqueline Powers, of Newport; by his children:  Shirley McFadzean and her husband, Verne, of Alburg and Richard Powers and his wife, Rachel, of Coventry; by his grandchildren:  Julie Terrazzano of Georgia, Deanna McFadzean of St. Albans, Kathleen Shedd and her husband, Jay, of Fairfax, and Scott Powers of Atlanta, Georgia; by his great-grandchildren:  Garrett, Abby and Val, Jenna, Olivia, Ricky, Nichole and her husband, Landon, and Chloe; and by his great-grandson Brantley.

He was predeceased by an infant brother, John, and infant daughter, Linda Lee.

A graveside service will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, May 18, at St. Mary’s Cemetery in Newport.

Should friends desire, contributions in his memory may be made to the Pope Memorial Frontier Animal Shelter, 502 Strawberry Acres, Newport, Vermont 05855, or to the Orleans-Essex Visiting Nurses Association and Hospice, Inc., 46 Lakemont Road, Newport, Vermont 05855.

Online condolences may be sent to the family through the funeral home website at www.curtis-britch.com.

Vida Powers

Vida Mary Powers

Vida Mary Powers, 84, died on Tuesday morning, January 8, 2013, in her home in the village of West Charleston, after a short battle with cancer.

She was surrounded by her family in her final weeks and did not suffer thanks to the services of the Orleans-Essex Visiting Nurses Association and Hospice care, with her granddaughter Summer Brunelle serving as her care provider.

She was born on February 17, 1928, at the Doncaster farm on the shores of Little Salem in Derby.  Her parents were Vernon Doncaster and Annie (Aiken) Doncaster.

She grew up on the Doncaster farm on Little Salem in Derby, and often told stories from the old days of doing the farm chores, living off the land and attending the one-room schoolhouse.  A few of her favorite stories were about her father making her clean and eat Salem horn pout (which she hated), being tricked by her brother Wayne into doing his work, and how her brothers taught her to swim across the “neck” between Little and Big Salem by telling her to watch the dog and do as he did.

She lived in the village of West Charleston her entire adult life.  Her white house on the hill was known by most in the community and was a common gathering point for family and friends over the past many decades.  She loved gardening and working in her flowers every day, never resting if a weed or grub was in one of her beds.  She was the family matriarch who gladly opened her home as the focal point for the extended family and friends.  She was not shy about giving her family advice and often drilled the lessons of living frugally and within your means.  Many recall the traditional Sunday gatherings at the home place to gossip and play cards while enjoying her delicious culinary creations that became know as the “Sunday Special.”  She was proud of her associate’s degree in teaching that she earned at night while raising a family, making many long drives to New Hampshire to attend classes.  She enjoyed teaching Head Start in Island Pond and Newport for many years and often ran into her old students when she was out shopping or yard-saleing.  She discovered traveling when her son Gary moved away, and enjoyed many trips to Florida, Arizona and Indiana.

In recent years, she enjoyed getting back to Salem Lake to enjoy pontoon rides and family visits on the deck.  She also loved to go to the local restaurants with her daughter Beth, her husband, Clifford Crowe, and his mother, Kitty.

She is survived by her children:  Beth Crowe and her husband, Clifford, of West Charleston, Marsha Brunelle and her husband, Victor, of West Charleston, and Gary Powers and his wife, Jennifer, of Lafayette, Indiana; her brother Wayne Doncaster and his wife, Betty, of Irasburg; her seven grandchildren:  Jeffrey Powers, Summer Brunelle, Gabriel Brunelle, Megan Timmons, Casey Powers, Marshall Powers and Annie Powers; and by her great-grandchildren:  Kylie Monfett. Ricky Mislick, and Jacob Brunelle.  She also had many nieces and nephews, and was especially close to Cheryl Lawson, Keith Austin and Kathy Currie, whom she helped raise after her sister Vivian’s early passing.  She was predeceased by her husband Ray Powers in 2005; and by her siblings:  Wendell Doncaster, Vivian Austin, Joyce Jennesse and Otis Doncaster.

A memorial service was held on January 11 in Newport.

Memorial donations may be made to the Orleans-Essex Visiting Nurses Association and Hospice, Inc., 46 Lakemont Road, Newport Vermont 05855.

Online condolences may be sent to the family through the funeral home website at www.curtis-britch.com.

Richard Talbot

Richard D. Talbot

Richard D. Talbot, 76, of Jay, died suddenly on Wednesday, January 9, 2013, at his home.

He was born on June 3, 1936, in Springfield, Massachusetts, a son of William and Ruth (Johnson) Talbot.  On June 14, 1962, he married Shirley Riendeau who survives him.  The couple celebrated their fiftieth anniversary in 2012.

Mr. Talbot entered the United States Marines, where he served his country during the Korean War.  During his lifetime, he was a traffic manager for General Instrument Corp., from where he retired.  He was an NRA patron member, PVA life member, DAV life member, and a member of the American Legion Post #28 of North Troy.  He graduated from Cathedral High School in Springfield, and from the Hartford School of Criminology in Hartford, Connecticut.  He loved his family, especially his grandchildren and their visits.  He enjoyed woodworking, landscaping, and carpentry.

He is survived by his children:  Luke Talbot of Island Pond, John Talbot and his wife, Kasey, of Newark, Matthew Talbot and his companion, Amber Lyon, of Westmore, Janelle Light and her husband, Robert, of Morrisonville, New York, and Beth Fitzgerald of Westfield, Massachusetts; his grandchildren:  Travis, Abel, Robert (R.J.), August, Molly, Savannah, and Kaeleigh; a great-granddaughter, Evelyn; and by several nieces and nephews.  He is also survived by his sisters:  Eleanor McNulty and Mary Agnes Funai and her husband, Fran.  He was predeceased by a son and daughter, and by two brothers and one sister.

Funeral services were held on January 12 in North Troy.  Spring interment will be in Jay Cemetery with full military honors.

Should friends desire, contributions in his memory may be made to the Shriners’ Hospital for Children, 51 Blossom Street, Boston, Massachusetts 02114.

Online condolences may be sent to the family through the funeral home website at www.curtis-britch.com.

Dorothy E. Whipple

Dorothy E. Whipple, 83, of Newport died on January 12, 2013, in Newport.

She was born October 3, 1929, in Orleans, a daughter of Elmer and Greta (Dunham) Hilliard.  In 1950 she married Leland Whipple, who predeceased her in 1986.

Mrs. Whipple worked as a nurse’s aid at the Maple Lane Nursing Home for over 20 years.  She also was employed at the soup kitchen at St. Mark’s Episcopal Church in Newport.  She held memberships with the American Legion and VFW auxiliaries and the Orleans Senior Center.  Her hobbies included knitting, fishing, crocheting, doing puzzles, playing bingo, and attending to her houseplants.

She is survived by her children:  Barbara Jean Bushaw of Burlington, Bruce Whipple and his wife, Darlene, of Newport, Karen Conley and her husband, Jesse, of Barton, Kim Whipple and companion, Debbie, of Orleans, Mark Whipple and companion, Kerry, of Orleans, Chris Whipple and his wife, Kris, of California, and Colby Whipple of Brownington; by her 11 grandchildren; ten great-grandchildren; and by several nieces and nephews.

She was predeceased by four brothers:  Warren, Clayton, Marvin, and Maynard (Stub); and by two sisters:  Verna Coburn and Verla Drake.

Services will be held at the convenience of the family.

Should friends desire, contributions in her memory may be made to the Pope Memorial Frontier Animal Shelter, 502 Strawberry Acres, Newport, Vermont 05855.

Online condolences may be sent to the family through the funeral home website at www.curtis-britch.com.

A tribute:

Farewell to Merle Benway, an old friend

 by Roland K. Bickford

First of all, I would like to apologize for not speaking at Merle’s day of celebration.  Valerie asked me to speak, but I was speechless.

Yes, I could say a lot about Merle.  One thing he did was always give me a chance at things, like plowing and sanding Dexter Mountain with bald tires on the truck.  What an experience it was sliding down backwards three times.  Then he’d say, “Come with me, sonny,” and up the hill we’d go.  No problem.  He knew how to make them old town trucks plow and how to break them, too.

I’d like to thank his daughter Valerie and son-in-law Larry for calling Gary and I to go and see Merle for the last time, and also for everything they did for him until the end.

Merle and I had  our ups and downs, but whenever either one of us needed a helping hand we were always there for each other.

Farewell for now, Merle, until we meet again.

Maureen O’Donnell

Sharon Maureen O’Donnell

 Sharon Maureen O’Donnell died of cancer at her East Albany home on December 11, 2012, with her brother Brian and close friends by her side.  She died as courageously and intensely as she had lived.

She was born July 6, 1952, and was raised in Connecticut.

After a brief time in New York City performing and recording with The Radiators and other musicians, Ms. O’Donnell, or “Mo” to her friends, moved to the Northeast Kingdom in 1986, with her partner Nancy Lee Kathan, who had taken a job at Catamount Arts.  Ms. O’Donnell was a graduate of Goddard College and worked for a time as a film projectionist at Catamount Arts and as a press operator at Troll Press.  But she will be remembered by all who knew her as a talented and inspiring musician and performer with the BTUs and other local bands.

Ms. O’Donnell was a veritable one-woman band, as talented on vocals as she was on guitar, drums and keyboard.  In 2009, in her home studio in East Albany, she recorded and produced Rogue Element, a powerful and compelling CD of original music.  She not only composed the music and wrote all the lyrics, but also played all of the instrumentation herself.  She influenced and inspired many young musicians in the area.

Ms. O’Donnell was a spiritual person who found inspiration in the nature of the Northeast Kingdom.  She spent much time in meditation at the Buddhist center, Karme-choling.  She was also an ardent participant in Native American rituals and ceremonies.  A Native American pipe ceremony will be held for her at her home on the spring equinox in March.

Ms. O’Donnell was predeceased by her mother and father and brother Michael.

She is survived by her brother Brian and sisters Laura, Nina and Lisa, as well as cousins Lauren, Susan and Mark.

People wishing to honor and remember Ms. O’Donnell may do so by making a donation in her memory to the outreach hospice program and future residential home, Summer House of the Northeast Kingdom, care of Community National Bank,  Church Street, Barton 05822, or care of Donna Tatum, 9 High Street, Orleans, Vermont  05860.

Friends of Maureen are invited to attend a potluck winter solstice celebration in her honor on Friday, December 21, at the home of Susan Blackstone in Westmore from 4 to 8 p.m.

Christine Beerworth

Christine Mary Beerworth

Christine Mary Beerworth, 78, of Jay died on December 12, 2012, in Newport.

She was born on May 13, 1934.  Her parents, Charles and Susie (Connors) Gebler, predeceased her, as did her brother Charles and her husband, Robert W. Beerworth.

Mrs. Beerworth was born in Hartford, Connecticut, and lived most of her young life in Rockville, Connecticut.  She graduated from Rockville High School in 1952 and the New Britain General Hospital School of Nursing in 1955.

On November 5, 1955, she married Robert W. Beerworth.  They made their home in Rockville until 1968 when they moved with their three children to Jay.

Mrs. Beerworth was employed at North Country Hospital for 28 years, having served as director of nursing from 1978 to 1986.  In 1983 she went back to college at Castleton State College and completed the BSN program.  She retired in 2003 after serving as the school nurse at the Jay-Westfield Elementary School.

She was a member of the St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church in North Troy.  She enjoyed music and served as the church choir director for several years.  She also enjoyed many crafts, including her handcrafted Christmas ornaments, sewing, knitting, and needlepoint.

Mrs. Beerworth fulfilled her dream of owning a home in Florida with her husband.  She spent much of her time there on the beach collecting shells, while her husband, Bob, enjoyed his love for golf.

Mr. and Mrs. Beerworth had three children: John Beerworth and his wife, Mary, of Shrewsbury, Susan Kopec, and Robert Beerworth Jr., of Jay.  Mrs. Beerworth is also survived by her five grandchildren:  Caeleigh and Connor Beerworth, and Kathryn, Candice, and Jonathan Kopec.

Funeral services were held on December 15 at St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church in North Troy where a Mass was celebrated by the Reverend Ladislaus Mwelinde.  Interment followed in the Jay Cemetery.

Should friends desire, contributions in her memory may be made to N.O.R.D. for Restricted Funds for Stiff Person Syndrome, 55 Kenosia Avenue, Danbury, Connecticut 06810.

Online condolences may be sent to the family through the funeral home website at www.curtis-britch.com.

Robert Burke

Robert A. Burke

Robert A. Burke, 62, of Derby died on December 9, 2012, in Newport.

He was born August 8, 1950, in South Paris, Maine, a son of Omer and Kathleen (Murphy) Burke, who predeceased him.  On January 1, 1970, he married Anita Hunt, who survives him.

Mr. Burke graduated from Oxford Hills High School in South Paris and from Husson College in Bangor, Maine, with a bachelor of science degree.  He was case goods manager and accounting cost administrator for Ethan Allen Manufacturing in Danbury, Connecticut, for 34 years.  He was a former member of the Skowhegan, Maine, Lions Club from 1982 through 1986 before transferring to the Derby Lions Club.  During his 30-year-plus membership, he was a past president of the Derby Lions, Lion of the Year in 1992, and he received the Melvin Jones Fellow Award in 1999.  He was also treasurer from 2004 through 2012 and received his Chevron pin in 2012.

He was also a member of the Boy Scouts of America and the United Church of Derby.  He was an avid golfer, a member of the Orleans Country Club, a NASCAR fan, and he enjoyed cooking.

He is survived by his wife, Anita Burke, of Derby; by his children:  Alan Burke and his wife, Nancy, of North Oxford, Massachusetts, Kathleen Burke-Worthley and her husband, Andrew, of Chelsea, Maine, and Amanda Montalbano and her husband, Ryan, of Smithfield, Rhode Island; by his grandchildren Benjamin and Jonathan Burke; by his brothers:  Omer Burke and his wife, Becky, of South Paris and Thomas Burke and his wife, Richa, of San Antonio, Texas; by an uncle, aunts and several nieces, nephews and cousins.

Friends may call from 2 to 4 p.m. on Saturday, December 22, at the Curtis-Britch-Converse-Rushford Funeral Home at 4670 Darling Hill Road in Newport.  Interment will take place at the Riverside Annex Cemetery in South Paris.

Should friends desire, contributions in his memory may be made to the Derby United Church, 3064 Route 5, Derby, Vermont 05829.

Online condolences may be sent to the family through the funeral home website at www.curtis-britch.com.

Andre Gaudreau

 Andre Gaudreau, 69, of St. Albans died at North Country Hospital in Newport surrounded by his family on December 11, 2012, following a long and courageous battle with kidney cancer.

Mr. Gaudreau was born on December 6, 1943, in Newport, the fourth child of Gervais and Germaine (Lamontagne) Gaudreau, who predeceased him in 2005 and 2001, respectively.

He was a graduate of Sacred Heart High School in Newport.  He then attended St. John’s Seminary in Brighton, Massachusetts, to pursue studies in philosophy.  He went on to earn a master’s of divinity degree at the University of St. Paul’s in Ottawa, Ontario.  He then served in the Roman Catholic Diocese of Burlington.  He subsequently obtained a teaching certificate in music and elementary education from Johnson State College.  Part of his music certification program included applied studies in pipe organ under Dr. James G. Chapman of UVM in Burlington.

After completing his studies in elementary education, he was employed as a bilingual educator in the Swanton/Highgate bilingual program.  His final employment was at IBM in Essex Junction until his retirement in 2008.

Mr. Gaudreau is survived by his five sisters:  Pierrette Paradis of Windsor, Connecticut, Denise Bouffard of Newport, Gabrielle Carr and her husband, Jim, of Newport, Lucille Gaudreau of Newport, and Suzanne Gaudreau of St. Albans. He also leaves his nieces and nephews:  Suzanne Paradis of Windsor Locks, Connecticut, Mark Paradis of Windsor, Jane Bouffard of Stowe, Monica and her husband, Scott Libby, of Newport, Peter Bouffard and his wife, Debbie, of Lincoln, Nebraska, Thomas Bouffard of Pittsburg, California, and Julie Bouffard Vesely and her husband, Keith, of Upper Marlboro, Maryland; and by five grandnieces:  Amanda Joubert, Sara Noyes, Michaela DiZazzo, and Laura and Anna Grace Libby.

He was predeceased by two brothers-in-law, Andre Paradis of Windsor and Paul Bouffard of Newport.

Mr. Gaudreau had a special interest in his French ancestry, history and genealogy, which impelled him to initiate extensive research into his family’s genealogical roots dating back to France.  This major project resulted in the creation of four genealogical volumes for his family.

Mr. Gaudreau consistently maintained a positive and courageous attitude throughout the course of his illness.  He relied on his unwavering faith and spiritual life for strength, inner fortitude and peace.  He was also devoted to his church and was a faithful and active communicant of St. Mary’s Parish in St. Albans.

A Mass was held at 11 a.m. on December 15 at Mater Dei Parish in Newport.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Mater Dei Parish for St. Mary’s Star of the Sea Parish in Newport.

Leo Paul Pare

Leo Paul Pare

 Leo Paul Pare, 79, of Derby Line died on December 10, 2012, in Newport.

He was born June 18, 1933, in Rock Island, Quebec, a son of Alcide and Marie (Pomerleau) Pare.  On October 26, 1953, he married Jeannine Veilleux, who predeceased him on October 7, 2012.  He was a veteran of the Korean War.

Mr. Pare was a heavy equipment operator for 35 years, ending his career with Mario Paul.  Prior to working construction, he owned and operated a dairy farm for 12 years.

He enjoyed painting cars, hunting, fishing, snowmobiling, sugaring, and traveling with his wife.  He was a member of Community Circle, and American Legion Post #21 of Newport.

He is survived by his children:  JoAnne Ellam and her husband, Craig, of Derby Line, Michael Pare and his wife, Tina, of Cheyenne, Wyoming, Ronald Pare and his wife, Karen, of Helena, Montana, Robert Pare and his wife, Sharon, of Newport, Paul Pare and his wife, Kim, of Keene, New Hampshire, and Carole Rosario and her husband, Tony, of Hillsboro, New Hampshire; by his grandchildren:  Jeffrey Ellam, Michael Pare Jr., and his wife, Lila, DeAnna Chavez and her husband, Steven, Brian Pare and his wife, Tiffany, Ashley Rice and her husband, Steve, Erik Pare, Meghan and Kristen Pare, and Morgan and Nicholas Pare; by his great-grandchildren:  Keara and KeAhna Chavez and Makaela and Zaidyn Pare; by his brother and sister-in-law Gaston and Rita Lefebvre; and by several nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his brother Claude Pare, by his sister Gisele Paquin, and by his granddaughter Jennifer Ellam.

Funeral services were held on December 18 at St. Edward’s Catholic Church in Derby Line, where a Mass was celebrated.  Interment followed in St. Edward’s Cemetery in Derby Line with full military honors.

Should friends desire, contributions in his memory may be made to the Pope Memorial Frontier Animal Society, 502 Strawberry Acres, Newport, Vermont 05855, or to the St. Edward’s Ladies Altar Shelter, 191 Clermont Terrace, Newport, Vermont 05855.

Online condolences may be sent to the family through the funeral home website at www.curtis-britch.com.

William Riggie

William Knost Riggie

 William Knost Riggie, 82, of Land O’ Lakes, Florida, died on December 9, 2012, at his home, surrounded by his loving family.

He was born October 7, 1930, in Newport.  He attended St. Mary’s School and Brighton High School in Island Pond.  Following his education, he entered the U.S. Navy (1954-1958).  Mr. Riggie was a proud veteran, serving as post commander of the American Legion Post #42 in 1966 and dedicating 58 years to American Legion membership.

He was employed by the New England Telephone Co. as a lineman supervisor, and he retired from AT&T with 31 years of service in 1985.  In early years of retirement, he traveled extensively with his wife, Paula.  In 1997 they moved from Henderson, Nevada, to their current residence in Land O’ Lakes.

Friends and family will remember Mr. Riggie for his wonderful sense of humor, his woodworking talent and his love of travel.

He is survived by his devoted wife of 35 years, Paula Corologos Riggie; his sons:  William Riggie and his wife, Nancy, of Pensacola, Florida, Dana Riggie of Henniker, New Hampshire, Scot Riggie and his wife, Melissa, of Glover; and his daughter Paula Michelle Sweigart and her husband, Aaron, of Pensacola; by his granddaughter Lauren Chase and her husband, Ren, with great-grandchildren Isabelle and Jack Hammond, all of South Burlington; and his grandson Jason Sweigart of Biloxi, Mississippi.  Others mourning his passing are sisters-in-law Phyllis Riggie of Island Pond, Irene Abbott and her husband, Bob, of South Burlington, Judith Corologos of Randolph, and brothers-in-law Roger Sylvester of Juneau, Alaska, Paul Corologos and his wife, Sharon, of Venice, Florida, James Corologos of Mineola, New York, and Andrew Corologos and his wife, Toy, of South Burlington.

He was predeceased by grandchildren Andrea and Jessica Riggie; sisters Theresa Younce, Cleone Sylvester, and Thelma Pontbriand; and one brother, Dr. Brian Riggie.  He will also be mourned by several nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Mr. Riggie’s name to the Gulfside Regional Hospice at www.grhospice.org.

There will be a private family service only.  Arrangements are by Whitfield Funeral Home of Zephyrhills, Florida.  Interment will be at the Florida Veterans National Cemetery in Bushnell, Florida.

Wendell C. Rivers Jr.

Wendell C. Rivers Jr.

 Wendell C. Rivers, Jr., 61, of Albany, died at Fletcher Allen Hospital in Burlington Tuesday evening, December 11, 2012, with his longtime partner, Cheryl Lafaso, by his side.

He was born in Newport on December 30, 1950, a son of Wendell C. Rivers Sr. and Nancy (Veglia) Rivers.  He attended school in Albany, where he resided most of his life.

Mr. Rivers was a talented musician, playing guitar and singing in many area bands.  He enjoyed wildlife and feeding the birds near his home.  He was a licensed ham radio operator, receiving recognition for relaying information in several rescue missions.

He leaves his son, Wendell C. Rivers III, of Coventry; his longtime partner, Cheryl Lafaso, and her son, Patrick Lafaso; his mother, Nancy (Veglia) Rivers; his brother, Richard Rivers and his wife, Billie Jean; and his sister Millie Seguin and her husband, Gary, all of Albany.  He also leaves many aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews, and extended family and friends.

Mr. Rivers was predeceased by his father, Wendell C. Rivers Sr., as well as his great-nephew Adrien Mason.

A graveside service was held on Friday, December 14, at the Albany Village Cemetery with the Reverend Lawrence Wall and Pastor Tim Ingalls officiating.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Pope Memorial Frontier Animal Shelter, 502 Strawberry Acres, Newport, Vermont 05855.

Henry Labrecque

Henry J. Labrecque

 Henry J. Labrecque, 84, of Barton, died suddenly on December 7, 2012.

He was born on April 24, 1928, in New Britain, Connecticut, a son of Jeremie Labrecque and Marie Anna (Morin) Labrecque.  On September 4, 1954, he married Jeannette Limoges of Newport Center, who survives him.  They raised their family on the family farm where Mr. Labrecque lived for the past 80 years.

Mr. Labrecque attended two one-room schoolhouses, the Devereaux School and the Fiske School, both in Barton.  During his high school years he would pick up milk cans from local farms and deliver them to United Farmers prior to attending school.  He graduated from Barton Academy in 1947.

He would commonly be seen driving his truck in Orleans County loaded with hay and sawdust for area farmers.  In the fall he would be seen with loads of Christmas trees and balsam brush headed to the lower New England states, as well as Pennsylvania and New York.

In the late 1980s, he began trucking gravel from his farm.  This business grew to become known as Labrecque Sand and Gravel.  He loved his “big toys,” loaders, backhoes, excavators and other construction equipment.  Most of all, he loved his 1978 green Mack truck, which he operated until his death.

Mr. Labrecque enjoyed the Willoughby Lake area, sugaring in the sugarhouse built by his uncle with lumber from trees felled by the hurricane of 1938.  He was well known for visiting with the neighbors and sharing his wisdom about the area with people from all over.  Most of all, he enjoyed his family and home.

He is survived by his wife, Jeannette, of Barton; his children Jeannine LaCoss of Lyndonville, Yvette and her husband, George Grenier, of Derby, Paul and his companion, Debbie Libby, of Brownington, Richard and his companion, Deana Cowles, of Barton, Gisele and her husband, John Miner, of Hyde Park, Georgette and her husband, Allen Griffin, of Barton, and Monique Paquette of Lyndonville; by 14 grandchildren:  Daniel LaCoss, Michelle Gilman, Renee LaCoss, Eric Grenier, Brent Grenier, Cole Labrecque, Lana Labrecque, Amanda Duffy, Michael Sanville, Raegen Phillips, Chance Griffin, Armand Paquette, Ronnie Paquette and Jeremie Paquette: by 13 great-grandchildren and three more expected.

He was predeceased by his parents, half brother of Canada, and son-in-law Michael Paquette.

Calling hours will be on Wednesday, December 12, from 5 to 8 p.m., and on Thursday December 13, from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. at the Curtis-Britch-Converse-Rushford Funeral Home at 12 Elm St. in Barton.  Funeral services will be held at St. Paul’s Catholic Church in Barton on Thursday, December 13, at 11 a.m.  Father “Tim” Naples will officiate.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the St. Paul’s Building Fund, 85 St. Paul’s Lane, Barton, Vermont 05822.

Online condolences may be sent to the family through the funeral home website at www.curtis-britch.com.

To read a story Chris Braithwaite wrote about Henry Labrecque in September 2011, please click here.

Darrell Maskell

Darrell Darwin Maskell

Darrell Darwin Maskell, a lifelong resident of Craftsbury, died peacefully at his home surrounded by his family and friends on Thursday, December 6, 2012.  He fought a courageous 12-year battle with cancer.

He was born October 28, 1961, in Hardwick, a son of Calvin and Nadine Baker Maskell.

He married the love of his life, Candace Sue Wells, on October 24, 1987.  Together they had two children who were their pride and joy, Chelsea Ann and Kyle Dean.

He is also survived by his six siblings:  His sister Debra Chaffee and Claire of Albany, his five brothers:   Calvin “Butch” Maskell of Albany, Stephen Maskell and Julie of Eden, David Maskell and Penny Wells of North Wolcott, Dennis Maskell and Lisa of Hardwick, and Chet Chase of Connecticut.

He was predeceased by his parents and a sister-in-law, Marilyn Chase.

He attended Craftsbury graded school and Craftsbury Academy.  He spent most of his life working as an iron worker or logging.

He was an avid Boston Red Sox fan, and he really enjoyed the rivalry between his New York family who were Yankee fans, especially the verbal rants between him and his nephew Alexander.  He enjoyed deer hunting with his children and friends.  He had an amazing talent for taking a raw piece of wood and crafting a beautiful item out of it.  He was an arm wrestling state champion.  He was a big collector of Coca Cola items.

Mr. Maskell was a devoted husband, father, son, brother, and uncle to his many nieces and nephews.  He had a special place in his heart for Steve and Patsy.  He had a big booming voice, which rivaled his huge, generous heart.

A memorial service will be held Friday, December 14, at 11 a.m. at the United Church of Johnson.  Visitation will be held Thursday, December 13, from 4 to 8 p.m. at the White-Fiess Funeral Home, 165 Brooklyn St., in Morrisville.  Interment will be in Lamoille View Cemetery in Johnson in the spring.

In lieu of flowers, Mr. Maskell requested that donations be made to a charity that was very close to his heart and helped in his time of need:  The Lamoille Area Cancer Network, P.O. Box 38, Lake Elmore, Vermont 05657.

Joseph Bullis

 Joseph G. Bullis

 Joseph G. Bullis, 68, of Newport Center, died on November 27, 2012, at his home with his family at his side.

He was born December 27, 1943, in East Orange, New Jersey, a son of Percy and Mildred (English).  On June 15, 1968, he married Marlene Willis, who survives him.

Mr. Bullis was a veteran of the Vietnam War.  He was a machinist at Tivoly in Derby Line.  He enjoyed working in his vegetable and flower gardens, and he loved to decorate his home at Christmas time, using thousands of lights and scenes.  He also loved having the grandchildren come to his home for a visit and attending family reunions that were held each year.  He was a wonderful husband and father.  His family always came first.

He is survived by his wife, Marlene Bullis, of Newport Center; by his children:  Roy Bullis and his wife, Rhonda, of Newport, Karen Bullis of Derby Line, and Roxanne Couture and her husband, Christopher, of Newport; by his grandchildren:  Leanne Bullis, Samantha Bullis, Kyle Forcier, Blake Leighton, Justin Forcier, Lindsey Couture, and Christopher Couture; by his great-grandchildren:  Rylee Jones and Hannah Forcier; by his brothers and sisters:  Jack Bullis and his wife, Beverly, of Derby Line, Daniel Bullis and his wife, Sharon, of Newport, Dianne Bullis of Newport, Judith Bullis of Proctor, Mary Lou George and her husband, Wendall, of Derby, Craig Bullis and his wife, Diana, and Paula Marie Brochu and her husband, Steve, of Derby Line; and by several nieces, nephews and cousins.

He was predeceased by his son Christopher Joseph Bullis and by three brothers:  Francis, William, and James Bullis.

Funeral services will be held at 10 a.m. on Thursday, December 6, at the Advent Christian Church in Newport Center with the Reverend Chris Barton officiating.  Spring interment will take place at the Veterans Cemetery in Randolph.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the NEKCA food shelf, P.O. Box 724, Newport, Vermont, 05855, or to the Orleans Essex Visiting Nurses Association and Hospice, Inc., 46 Lakemont Road, Newport, Vermont 05855.

Online condolences may be sent to the family through the funeral home website at www.curtis-britch.com.

Lorene Liberty Curtis

 Lorene Anna Liberty-Curtis

 Lorene Anna Liberty-Curtis died suddenly on November 22, 2012, at her daughter’s home in East Highgate following a recent period of illness.

Ms. Liberty-Curtis was born to Lyndon and Merial (Stratton) Liberty on May 17, 1945.

She was predeceased by her parents, by her brother Byron Liberty, and by her beloved late husband, John Lee Curtis.

She is survived by her sisters Patricia Fudge and family of New York, Deanna Styggles and family of New Hampshire, brother-in-law, Durwood Styggles of Vermont, her sister Linda Oullette and family, her sister Kathy Benjamin and her family of Vermont, and her brother Michael Liberty and his family of New York.

Ms. Liberty-Curtis was a single mother of seven children, all of whom survive her:  daughter Deborah Williams of Flagstaff, Arizona, son Christopher Chicione and his wife, Karen, of Bakersfield, son, Patrick Chicoine and his wife, Tina, of Jacksonville, Florida, daughter Andrea Smith and her husband, Raymond, of West Charleston, daughter April Mathewson and her husband, Clint, of Sheffield, daughter Katrina Mallette and her husband, Carl, of East Highgate, and daughter Alicia Chicoine and her husband, Joey Glodgett, of Halifax, Massachusetts.  She is also survived by 13 grandchildren:  Wesley Kahl, Raymond Smith Jr., Caitlin Smith, Calee Chicoine, Connor Chicoine, Joshua Elliott, Cheyenne Elliott, Timothy Elliott, Cassandra Elliott, Dakota Mallette, Hunter Mallette, Sierra Glodgett, and Haleight Glodgett; by two great-grandchildren; and by close friend Ralph Swett.

Ms. Liberty-Curtis worked for a short time with the Community College of Vermont teaching adults to read.  She met and married Patrick Chicoine Sr., and they had seven children together.  They divorced in 1976.  She became a migrant farm worker, working on farms in Shoreham, Highgate, and throughout Franklin County.  She was an extremely hard worker, and she instilled those values in her children as well.

She enjoyed antiques and auctions.  When she retired from farming, she graduated from a program called Step Up for women and learned the trade of finish carpentry.

She met and married John Lee Curtis in 1996 and settled in Brownington.  After she left carpentry, she became a store manager and historian.  She also participated in long rifle shooting competitions and pioneer camping.  She enjoyed Mr. Curtis’ enthusiastic hunting stories and hunted and fished with him.

Throughout her life, Ms. Liberty-Curtis was a professional quilter who made hand-sewn works of art that won many top awards in juried shows, accolades in magazines, and were sold all over the country.

She was a lover of books, gardening, and early American history.  She could do anything she set her mind to and did it well.  She had been recently chronicling her own family history.  She was a patron of many libraries and the Clan of the Hawk tribal group.

At Ms. Liberty-Curtis’s request, there will be no viewing.

A family gathering was scheduled for Wednesday, November 28, at the Rice Hill United Methodist Church in Sheldon Springs.

In lieu of flowers, gifts in her memory may be made in her name to the Jones Memorial Library in Orleans, Vermont, or The Clan of the Hawk tribal group in care of Ralph Swett, Evansville, Vermont.

Desneiges Geraw

 Desneiges J. Geraw

 Desneiges J. Geraw, 67, of Glover died on November 27, 2012, at her home surrounded by her loving family.

She was born January 22, 1945, in Craftsbury, a daughter of Eddy and Fabiola (Vachon) Coderre.  In 1971 she married Chester Geraw, who survives her.

Mrs. Geraw loved spending time with her family and grandchildren.

She is survived by her husband, Chester Geraw, of Glover; by her sons:  Raymond Geraw and his wife, Lea, of Glover, and Eddy Geraw of Glover; by her grandchildren:  Vikki and Destiny Geraw, both of Glover; by her brother Donald Coderre of Lowell; by her sisters:  Gisele Damon and her husband, Robert, of Morgan, Estelle Wheeler and her husband, Alfred, of Newport Center, and Cecile Arel-Smith of Newport; by her sister-in-law Alice Coderre of Irasburg; and by several nieces and nephews.

She was predeceased by her son Freddy Geraw in 2005; by her grandson Michael Geraw in 2005; by her brothers:  Lucien, Marcel, Eugene, Gaetan, and Raymond Coderre; by her sisters:  Rita and Jeannette, by her brothers-in-law:  Albert, Wallace, and Charlie; and by her sisters-in-law:  Eva, Rosalie, Jeannette, and Tammy.

Funeral services were held at the Curtis-Britch-Converse-Rushford Funeral Home in Barton on November 30 with the Reverend Timothy Naples officiating.  Spring interment will be in Westlook Cemetery in Glover.

Should friends desire, contributions in her memory may be made to the Norris Cotton Cancer Center, 1080 Hospital Drive, St. Johnsbury, Vermont 05819.

Online condolences may be sent to the family through the funeral home website at www.curtis-britch.com.

Marcel Lanoue

 Marcel M. Lanoue

 Marcel M. Lanoue, 95, of Newport died on December 1, 2012, in Derby, surrounded by his loving family.

He was born on May 15, 1917, in Newport Center, a son of Herve and Albina (Gaudreau) Messier.  After his mother’s death, he was raised by his aunt and uncle Euclide and Argentine Lanoue.  On October 22, 1960, he married Angele Frechette, who survives him.

Mr. Lanoue served his country during World War II, from 1941 through 1946.  He was stationed at the Island of Leyte in the Philippines where he was in charge of troop transport for incoming and outgoing troops, as well as inter-island transport.  He made his home in Newport, where he loved to be.  He was a devoted husband, father and family man as well as a devoted Catholic.

He was employed by his father, Euclide Lanoue, in North Troy, where he was a sales clerk and bookkeeper in a feed store.  He then went on to work at St. Onge’s cash store in Newport as a sales clerk.  After that he worked as a butcher for the Grand Union grocery store.  He also worked for many years at the Hilton Gas Company as a propane gas technician.  He retired as a custodian at North Country Union High School in 1994.  He raised two children and was a loving and caring father.

He is survived by his wife, Angele Lanoue, of Newport; and by his children:  Micheline Marcotte of Barton and Marc Lanoue and his wife, Amy, of Newport; by seven grandchildren:  Stephanie Waechter and her husband, Michael, Gabrielle Marcotte, Olivia Marcotte, Celine Marcotte, Avery Marcotte, Caleb Lanoue, and Daniel Lanoue.

He was predeceased by his brother Lawrence Messier; by his half-brothers Victor and Jean Marie Messier; by half-sister Marie Jeanne Theroux; by sister-in-law Marguerite Beaumier and her husband, Francis; and by his son-in-law Bradley Marcotte.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. on Thursday, December 6, at St. Mary’s Star of the Sea Catholic Church in Newport, where a Mass will be celebrated.  Friends may call from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. on December 6 at the Curtis-Britch-Converse-Rushford Funeral Home at 37 Lake Road in Newport.  Spring interment will be in St. Mary’s Cemetery with full military honors.

Should friends desire, contributions in his memory may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association of Vermont, 300 Corner Stone Drive, Suite 128, Williston, Vermont 05495.

Online condolences may be sent to the family through the funeral home website at www.curtis-britch.com.

Izola Magoon

 Izola Magoon, 78, of Merrimack, New Hampshire, died on November 23, 2012, at the Ledgewood Nursing Home

Born March 25, 1934, in Orleans, she was a daughter of the late Raymond Place from Orleans and Ruby Robbins from Milford, New Hampshire.

Mrs. Magoon owned and operated IKE, Inc.,  She lived in Merrimack for the past 40 years.

Survivors include:  Her son Kirk Carnahan and his wife, Kathy; two grandchildren:  Corey Carnahan and Christie Corey and her husband, Aaron; two great-grandchildren:  Hailey and Colton Corey; and nephew David Place.

There will be no local services.

Mrs. Magoon will be laid to rest in Orleans beside her late husband and many generations of her family.  As was her wish, there will be a small, private, family service in the spring.

The Rivet Funeral Home in Merrimack is in charge of arrangements.

Frederick Tourangeau

Frederick T. Tourangeau

 Frederick T. Tourangeau, 75, of Newport died on November 26, 2012, with his loving family at his side.

He was born November 10, 1937, in Montgomery, a son of Arthur and Persis (Pelkey) Tourangeau.

On November 20, 1956, he married Ruth Woodcock, who survives him.

Mr. Tourangeau served in the U.S. Army.  He was a machinist at Tivoly in Derby Line.  He enjoyed hunting.

He is survived by his wife, Ruth Tourangeau, of Newport; by his children:  Brent Tourangeau of Richardson, Texas, Leona Smith and her husband, Royal, of Lebanon, Maine, and Michael Tourangeau of Nashua, New Hampshire; by his grandchildren:  Jacob, Tonya, Trevor, Nicholette, Katherine, and Juliette; by his great-grandchildren:  Connor, Cullen, Layla, and Emily; by his brother James Tourangeau of Craftsbury; by his sisters:  Joyce Billado and her husband, Carlton, of Craftsbury, and Myrtle Lacroix and her husband, Tony, of Brunswick, Maine; and by many nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his brother Donald Billow, his sister Barbara Mason, and his granddaughter Elizabeth Tourangeau.

Funeral services will be held at the convenience of the family.

Should friends desire, contributions in his memory may be made to the Orleans-Essex Visiting Nurse Association and Hospice, Inc., 46 Lakemont Road, Newport, Vermont 05855.

Online condolences may be sent to the family through the funeral home website at www.curtis-britch.com

Bill Whitcomb

Wilton (Bill) A. Whitcomb

 Wilton (Bill) A. Whitcomb, 82, of Ormond Beach, Florida, died on Saturday, November 10, 2012, at South Shore Hospital in Weymouth, Massachusetts.

He was born on May 9, 1930.

He is survived by his wife of 29 years, Catherine (Mattson, Murphy) Whitcomb; three sons:  Wilton and his wife, Beth, of Windermere, Florida, Joseph and his wife, Judy, of Ft. Myers, Florida; and Preston and his wife, Beverly, of Sudbury, Massachusetts; by four stepchildren:  Deborah Duffy and her husband, Peter, of Old Lyme, Connecticut, David Murphy and his wife, Lynda, of Springvale, Maine, Daniel Murphy and his wife, Lorna, of Sunderland, Massachusetts, and Kristin Murphy of Johnson; by 11 grandchildren; by his only sister, Allayne (Kremp, Donlon) Whitcomb, of Ormond Beach; and by nieces Janice Dufour and her husband, Jeffrey, of Hopewell, New Jersey, and Joanne Pecca and her husband, Michael, of Cohasset, Massachusetts.

Mr. Whitcomb grew up in Hingham, Massachusetts, and graduated from Hingham High School in 1948.  He had a bachelor of science degree in engineering from Northeastern University in Boston, Massachusetts, and he attended Harvard Business School.  After a stint serving in the U.S. Army overseas, he lived in Scituate, Massachusetts, for 25 years where he was active in Boy Scouts and youth baseball.

He was employed by Boston Edison in management for 30 years.  A career opportunity led him to spend six years in Jubail, Saudi Arabia, where he was plant manager of a desalination plant for the Saudi government.  While in Arabia, he and his wife traveled extensively throughout Europe.  They returned to the United States in 1988, locating in Newport where Mr. Whitcomb became the owner-operator of a boat marina on Lake Memphremagog.

After retiring, Mr. Whitcomb moved to Ormond Beach, spending his summers on Lake Salem in Derby.  He was an avid Boston sports fan and a lifelong lover of dogs.  He is remembered as a loving and devoted family man and generous friend.  He was a member of Christ Presbyterian Church in Ormond Beach, the United Church of Newport, the Masonic Lodge of Newport, the Newport Planning Commission, and a board member of the Falls Association in Ormond, Beach.

In accordance with Mr. Whitcomb’s wishes, there will be no formal funeral service.  A remembrance and graveside service, to be attended by family and close friends, will occur in the spring in Vermont.

Those who wish may send donations to the Golden Retriever Rescue Fund Mid Florida (see www.grrmf.org for details and the mailing address), or to the United Church of Newport, 63 Third Street, Newport, Vermont 05855.

Online condolences can be shared through the Deware Funeral Home at www.dewarefuneralhome.com.

 James M. Young

 James M. Young, 81, of Newport died on December 3, 2012, in Newport.

He was born February 10, 1931, in Olde Town, Maine, a son of James Young and Ella (Fuller) Dubois.  On July 20, 1950, he married Katherine Yankus, who survives him.

Mr. Young was a veteran of the U.S. Navy and served his country from 1948 through 1950.  He was a salesman for AMP Inc., in Valley Forge, Pennsylvania, and more recently owned the Kingdom Koach Taxi Business in the Newport area.  He enjoyed spending time with his family and friends.

He is survived by his wife, Katherine Young of Newport; by his children:  Joyce Gooding and her husband, Daniel, of Gilford, New Hampshire, Patricia Young of Brownington, Janice Polsdorf and her husband, Scott, of Savannah, Georgia, James Young and his wife, Kathy, of Port St. Lucie, Florida, David Young and his wife, Diana, of Matthews, North Carolina, Christine Thomas of Lancaster, Pennsylvania; by 18 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren; by his sisters:  Florence Winter of Lebanon, New Hampshire, and Joann Long and Helen Carlson of Clearwater, Florida; and by numerous nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his daughter Judith Pelleteri and by his brother Ralph Young.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. on Monday, December 10, at St. Mary Star of the Sea Catholic Church in Newport where a Mass will be celebrated.  Friends may call from 5 to 7 p.m. on Sunday, December 9, at the Curtis-Britch-Converse-Rushford Funeral Home at 4670 Darling Hill Road in Newport.  Interment will follow in the New Hampshire Veterans Cemetery in Boscowen, New Hampshire, with full military honors.

Should friend desire, contributions in his memory may be made to the American Cancer Society, Vermont Division, 55 Day Lane, Williston, Vermont 05495.

Online condolences may be sent to the family through the funeral home website at www.curtis-britch.com.

Helen L. Bernier

 Helen L. Bernier, 71, of Coventry died on November 19, 2012, at her home with her loving family at her side.

She was born June 29, 1941, in Newport, a daughter of Leo and Elsie (Sanville) Cheney Jr.

On January 14, 1961, she married Richard (Skip) Bernier, who survives her.  She graduated from Newport Center High School.

Mrs. Bernier was manager of the Vermont Department of Employment and Training in Newport where she retired after 30 years of service.  During this time she was also a military veterans’ representative for the state of Vermont.

She was an avid reader, and she also enjoyed gardening.  She loved her dogs Casey and Boss.

She is survived by her husband of 51 years, Richard Bernier, of Coventry; by her daughters:  Tina de la Bruere and her husband, Raymond, of Troy and Stacie L. Baker and her friend, Eric Desranleau, of Essex; by her grandsons:  Timothy de la Bruere and his spouse, Thomas, Brent de la Bruere, Jeret Baker and his wife, Kate; by her granddaughters:  Katie Baker and Emily Baker; and by her great-grandson Connor.

Private services will be held at the convenience of the family.

Should friends desire, contributions in her memory may be made to the Pope Memorial Frontier Animal Society, 502 Strawberry Acres, Newport, Vermont 05855.

Online condolences may be sent to the family through the funeral home website at www.curtis-britch.com.

Joseph E. Gibney

 Joseph E. Gibney, 61, of Glover died on November 15, 2012, in Glover.

He was born on December 12, 1950, in Troy, a son of Cecile and Irene Gibney.  He married Mary Pillsbury who predeceased him.

He is survived by his children:  Shelly Lavigne and Joseph Gibney Jr., both of Manchester, New Hampshire, Scott Gibney, Brian Gibney, and Jason Gibney; and by his stepdaughter Tracy Raymond.

Funeral services will be held at the convenience of the family.

Online condolences may be sent to the family through the funeral home website at www.curtis-britch.com.

Roy Ingalls

Roy Ingalls

 Roy Ingalls, 97, died on November 20, 2012, at the Maple Lane Nursing Home in Barton.

He was born November 19, 1915, in Irasburg, a son of the late Ivan and Jennie (Wells) Ingalls.

A lifelong resident of Irasburg, Mr. Ingalls owned and operated the family dairy farm until 1984.  He was very active in the community.  He served as selectman for the town of Irasburg for 47 years.  He was a member of Masonic Lodge #62 in Irasburg and a charter member of the Vermont Association of Snow Travelers (VAST).  He enjoyed hunting, fishing, snowmobiling and playing poker.  He was known for his common sense, his level-headedness, and his Yankee frugality.

Mr. Ingalls leaves his nieces and nephews:  Peter and his wife, Rita Martin, of Sheffield, Marianne and her husband, Mo Hall, of Richford, Paul Martin and his fiancée, Christine, of Richford, Ilene Elliott of Canaan, Linda Wignet of White River, and Ellen and her husband, Skip Swayse, of White River; and his favorite cousin, who was like a daughter to him, Rachel Todd, and her husband, Dean, of Irasburg.

Mr. Ingalls was predeceased by his beloved companion, Wilma Sargeant; his sisters and brothers-in-law:  Ada Ingalls Martin and her husband, Reuben, Lois Ingalls Winget and her husband, Earl, Avis Ingalls Clark Hinton and her husband, Ivers Clark, and Elvin (Jim) Hinton; a niece, Diane Mattoon; and nephews Ivers Clark Jr., Ward Clark, Lance Clark, and Bob Elliott.

Funeral services were held November 24 at the Curtis-Britch-Converse-Rushford Funeral Home in Newport.  Interment will be in the Irasburg Cemetery at a later date.  A Masonic service was held at the funeral home.

Should friends desire, contributions in his memory may be made to VAST, 26 Vast Lane, Berlin, Vermont 05602.

Online condolences may be sent to the family through the funeral home website at curtis-britch.com.

James Gerhard Krieble

 James (Jim) Gerhard Krieble, 92, formerly of Shaker Heights, Ohio, died Tuesday, October 25, 2012, at Kendal in Hanover, New Hampshire.

He was born October 23, 1920, in Weehawkin, New Jersey.  He grew up in Union City, New Jersey, where he attended public schools, and then he spent a year at Lawrenceville Academy in Lawrenceville, New Jersey, before college.

Mr. Krieble was a graduate of Princeton University, where he earned a BS in chemical engineering in 1942, and a PhD in chemical engineering in 1949.  He married Amanda Sanborne in 1943.  They settled in Washington, D.C., where Mr. Krieble served as a lieutenant in the U.S. Naval Reserve during World War II.  He worked in the U.S. Naval Laboratory as a process engineer in the chemical warfare and electrochemical sections.  After graduate school he worked for General Electric (GE) as a process engineer at the research laboratory in Schenectady, New York, where he was engaged in research and development in tungsten chemistry, the iodide process, and the electrolytic oxidation of metals. In 1957, Mr. Krieble moved to the GE lamp, metals, and components department in Cleveland, Ohio.  He became a plant manager and continued working on the development and economic evaluation of processes for refractory metals and gases used in lamps until he retired in 1983.

Mr. Krieble was active in charitable, social, and professional communities. He was a member of Sigma X, the General Electric Elfun Society, the American Institute of Chemical Engineers, the New York Academy of Sciences, and the American Chemical Society.  A former Eagle Scout, he served as a Boy Scout leader in New York and Ohio.  In retirement, Mr. Krieble served as the president of the Westmore Association in Westmore, and he also monitored the lake’s water quality for the state of Vermont for many years.

He was a devoted husband, loving father, and an active grandfather.  Mr. Krieble loved his summer vacations with his family on Lake Willoughby in Westmore where he hiked, gardened, managed the woods, and tended their property.  Later on, he and his wife spent six months there each year.

Mr. Krieble enjoyed reading and conversation with family and friends who appreciated his dry sense of humor.  Together with his wife, he was ever a gracious host.

He is survived by his children:  daughter Cynthia Krieble and son-in-law Raeburne Heimbeck of Ellensburg, Washington, daughter Elizabeth Krieble of Andover, Massachusetts, son John Krieble and daughter-in-law Katherine Getzels of Brooklyn, New York; and by four grandchildren.

He was predeceased by his wife of 68 years, Amanda S. Krieble.

Contributions may be made to the Michael J. Fox Foundation dedicated to Parkinson’s disease research.

Robert J. Wright

 Robert J. Wright, 66, of Craftsbury died at his home on November 21, 2012.

He was born August 25, 1946, in Stowe, a son of Robert and Annie (Martin) Wright, both predeceased.

He is survived by his sons Jasper (Jay) Wright and his wife, Sandy Stoddard, and their children Iva and Jesse of Craftsbury, Charley Wright of Craftsbury, and Brian Wright of North Carolina; by his Sister Linda (Wright) Prescott and her husband, Bruce, and their children Shawn Wright his wife, Fay, and their children, and Angel Prescott, all of Craftsbury; by his brother Gary Wright and his wife, Robin Wright, of Eden; and by loved nieces, nephews, cousins and many friends.

He was predeceased by his sister Sandra Tallman of Alaska.

He was a farmer for many years and will be missed by many.

Friends may call from 6 to 8 p.m. on Friday, November 30, at the Curtis-Britch and Davis Funeral Home, 1321 North Craftsbury Road, Craftsbury Common.  A graveside service will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, December 1, at the Branch Cemetery in Craftsbury with Pastor Roland Green officiating.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be sent to 140 Scotts Lane, Craftsbury, Vermont 05826, care of Jasper Wright.

Online condolences may be sent to the family through the funeral home website at www.curtis-britch.com.

Ruth Naomi Young

Ruth Naomi Young

 Ruth Naomi Young, 86, died peacefully at her home in Westfield on November 15, 2012.

She was born to Neoma Bean Whalen and Joseph Whalen on February 19, 1926 at the family farm in Irasburg.  In 1943 she married George L. Young of West Glover, and together they bought the farm from Mrs. Young’s mother.  There they raised three children and managed a dairy herd until 1969.

Mrs. Young was proud of the farm’s award-winning syrup (which she boiled herself), and she dedicated much of her time to promoting the maple industry in Vermont.

In the 1970s she began working at Young’s Green Mountain Nursery along with her husband and sons.  In 1978 the family bought out the nursery’s founder and moved it to Tree Corners where they ran the business for ten years.

Mrs. Young had a rich social life and was active in the Irasburg and later, New Port Richey, Florida, communities.  Whether she was at the Ladies Aid Society, Home Demonstration Club, the Grange, square dancing, the Barton fair, senior centers, or music jam sessions, she was always happiest when surrounded by friends.  She was especially active in the Irasburg United Church, and she liked to remember how she originated the idea for the Irasburg Church Fair (now in its sixth decade).  For many years, Mrs. Young made flower arrangements for the church every Sunday.

Following the death of her husband in May of 2009, Mrs. Young lived with her son Danny in Westfield where she continued to garden and make new friends.  She especially enjoyed spending time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Unwaveringly devoted to her family, she leaves fondest memories of her humor, generosity, wisdom, and work ethic.

She is survived by her children:  Danny Young, Wayne Young, and Priscilla Christopher; four grandsons:  Matthew Christopher, Aaron Young, Adam Young, Will Young, and their spouses; and three great-grandchildren:  Orion Bava Young, Dante Bava Young, Eliza Lily Knowlton-Young, and Bodhi Knowlton-Young.

She was predeceased by her siblings Pearl Whalen Alexander, Gerald Keith, Thelma Keith Shepherd, and Marion Kennison.

A memorial service will be held Saturday, December 8, at 11 a.m. at the Irasburg United Church.  The family will receive friends at the church from 10 a.m. until the time of service.

Spring interment will be at Westlook Cemetery in Glover.

Contributions in her memory may be made to the Irasburg United Church, P.O. Box 177, Irasburg, Vermont 05845.

Online condolences may be sent to the family through the funeral home website at www.curtis-britch.com.

Michael P. Bartolomeo

Michael P. Bartolomeo

 Michael P. Bartolomeo, 54, of Newport died on November 6, 2012, in Newport.

He was born on March 26, 1958, in Long Island, New York, a son of Dominick and Helen (Grossman) Bartolomeo.

Mr. Bartolomeo earned his GED and later graduated with a bachelor’s degree in computer science from the Community College of Vermont.  He was a member of American Legion Post #21.  He enjoyed working on computers, drawing, watercolors, and most of all raising his daughter Demi.

He is survived by his daughter Demi Bartolomeo and her companion, Greg Crease Jr.; by his grandchildren:  Gregory Crease III and Colin Crease; by his sisters and brothers:  William Bartolomeo of Colorado, Janice Corkins of North Carolina, Joseph Bartolomeo of North Carolina, Patty Murray of North Carolina, Diane Scalzo of Vermont, Lori Catley of North Carolina, James Bartolomeo of New York, and Peter Bartolomeo of North Carolina.

He was predeceased by a sister, Barbara Thibeault.

Private funeral services will be held at the convenience of the family.

Should friends desire, contributions in his memory may be made to the family care of Demi Bartolomeo, 56 Eastern Avenue, Newport, Vermont 05855.

Online condolences may be sent to the family through the funeral home website at www.curtis-britch.com.

Ronald B. Simons

Ronald B. Simons

Ronald B. Simons, 46, of Coventry died suddenly on November 5, 2012, at his home.

He was born on September 11, 1966, in Sharon, Connecticut, a son of Earl and Joyce (Morey) Simons.

On May 1, 1999, he married Sarah Dunbar, who survives him.  Mr. Simons was a truck driver for Simons Logging Company.

He raised registered chickens and showed them along with his registered pigeons at various shows.  He loved his constant companion dog named Harley.  He enjoyed going to work, reading western novels, and watching television.  He especially loved his grandson and spending time with his family.

He is survived by his wife, Sarah Simons, of Coventry; by his parents, Joyce Simons of Barton and Earl Simons and his wife, Brenda, of Brownington; by his children:  Bruce Simons of Barton, Samantha Simons and her companion, Allan Bartelson Jr. of Coventry, and Carmen Simons and her companion, Justin Maloney, of Coventry; by grandson Wyatt Maloney; by his brothers:  Jay Simons and his wife, Julie, of Bolton and Lance Simons and his wife, Carolyn, of Claremont, New Hampshire.

He was predeceased by his brother Adam Simons in 1987.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, November 17, at 2 p.m. at the Brownington Center Church in Brownington with the Pastor Dan Prue officiating.

Online condolences may be sent to the family through the funeral home website at www.curtis-britch.com.

Frederick and Yvonne Briggs

 Yvonne Marion Briggs

 Yvonne Marion Briggs, 85, of South Burlington died at her home on October 15, 2012, with her loving family around her.

She was born on February 8, 1927, in North Troy, a daughter of Pierre and Marie Anne Cadieux.  Her early life was spent in North Troy, and the remaining years in South Burlington.  She married the love of her life, Frederick Smith Briggs, on June 25, 1955.

Mrs. Briggs worked at the Blair Veneer Co. in North Troy in the payroll department and continued employment there after it was known as Weyerhauser. When they moved to South Burlington, she worked at the Chittenden Bank in the bookkeeping department and the installment loan department, retiring in 1991.

She leaves her husband of 57 years, Fred; her daughter Carol Ann Hardy and her husband, Warren, of Colchester; her son Brendon Robert Briggs of Colchester; her grandchildren Kristopher and Olivia; her brother John Paul Cadieux and his wife, Ida, of Newport; her sisters Rejane Fuller and her husband, Clifford, of Bedford, Indiana, Germaine Palmer of Westminster, Juliette Harnois of Swanton, Mary Jane Gamache and her husband, Gerry, of Beebe Plain, and Anita Starr and her husband, Robert, of North Troy; also several nieces and nephews and a godchild, Penny Viens.

She was predeceased by her sisters Madeline Cushing and her husband, Nelson, and Valada Spooner and her husband, Willard; by her brother Laurent Cadieux and brothers-in-law Wayne Palmer and Herman Harnois.

Mrs. Briggs was proud of her grandchildren and enjoyed any time she spent with them.  She enjoyed when her sisters would visit and they would go shopping together around the holidays.

Funeral services were scheduled to be held on October 18 at the Ready Funeral and Cremation Service in Burlington.  Interment was to follow in Resurrection Park Cemetery.

To send online condolences, please visit www.readyfuneral.com.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Vermont Cares, 187 St. Paul Street, Burlington, Vermont 05401.

Germain “Jim” Fournier

Germain E. “Jim” Fournier

 Germain E. “Jim” Fournier, 83, a former longtime resident of Windsor, died suddenly on October 15 in Rochester Hills, Michigan, where he had lived for the past several years.

He was born March 13, 1929, in Newport, a son of Ephrem P. and Diana A. (Roy) Fournier.  He received his schooling in Newport.  He married Anita E. Turgeon at St. Mary’s Star of the Sea Catholic Church in Newport on August 21, 1950. They moved to Windsor in 1952.

Mr. Fournier owned and operated Jim’s Shoe Repair in Windsor from 1952 until 1963 when he started Jim’s Paint and Wallpaper, which he operated until his retirement in 1993.  Following his retirement Mr. and Mrs. Fournier moved to Vero Beach, Florida.

He was a former member of St. Francis of Assisi Church in Windsor, where he was a member of the Knights of Columbus Father Fontaine Council.

He was predeceased by his parents; his son Ronald Fournier; his sister Estelle Schock; and his brother Bernard Fournier.

Survivors include his loving wife of 62 years, Anita Fournier; two daughters, Patricia Sottile and her husband, Frank, and Debra Quintana and her husband, Michael; two brothers, Lawrence Fournier and Raymond Fournier; four sisters, Yvette Armstrong, Jane Forcier, Andrea Bergeron, and Sister Theresa Fournier; and five grandchildren:  Michael “M.J.” Quintana, Peter Sottile, Emily Quintana-John and her husband, Eric, Stephanie Sottile Harris and her husband, David, and Melanie Sottile.

Friends may call at the Knight Funeral Home in Windsor on Thursday, October 25, from 6 to 8 p.m. and again on Friday, October 26, beginning at 10 a.m.

A Mass will be celebrated on Friday, October 26, at 11 a.m. at St. Francis of Assisi Church in Windsor.  The Reverend Raphael Nyabenda will be the celebrant.  A reception for family and friends will follow in the church hall.

Committal services will be held at a later date at the convenience of the family in the St. Francis of Assisi Cemetery in Windsor.

Memorial contributions may be made in memory of Mr. Fournier to Crittenton Hospital Medical Center Foundation at 1101 West University Drive, Rochester, Michigan 48307 or online at https://crittenton.thankyou4caring.org/Donate.

Condolences may be expressed to his family in an online guestbook at www.knightfuneralhomes.com.

Patrick Lee Krupp

 Patrick Lee Krupp

 Patrick Lee Krupp, 70, of Lowell, died after a long illness on October 1, 2012, in the loving arms of his daughter Patricia L. Krupp of Colchester, and her companion, Deane Douglas, at Good Shepherd Hospice in Sebring, Florida.

Mr. Krupp was born on February 1, 1942, a son of the late Francis S. and Dorothy G. (Muir) Krupp.

He married Nancy J. (Decarreau) Thompson on April 8, 1972, and they recently celebrated their fortieth wedding anniversary together.  He was employed as a security guard for the University of Vermont, operated and maintained heavy equipment for Engineers Construction and Munson Earth Moving, and was a carpenter/foreman for multiple construction companies, including Nordic, Ashline, Bates, Robert E. Jennings, Kuzins, Cooley Wood Corporation, and for his dear friend Paul Kirby. He later became self-employed as a general carpenter, and in more recent years shared his creativity through Krupp’s Krafts in Lowell, selling handmade birdhouses, feeders, lawn shadows, clocks and wooden games.

Mr. Krupp grew up in Williston on his family farm and later built a house with his wife, Nancy, just two doors down.  They lived on the lake in Colchester and finally retired to the mountain home that Mr. Krupp built in Lowell.

He enjoyed racing snowmobiles and riding with friends, working on and driving stock cars at Catamount Raceway, tending to his garden, and cultivating the most beautiful rosebushes.  He was also an avid NASCAR fan, he loved animals, loved to cook, and thoroughly enjoyed entertaining his family and friends.  His intelligence, charm, witty sarcasm, stories, and smile will be deeply missed.

In addition to his wife and daughter, Mr. Krupp is survived by four sons and their spouses:  Bruce and Katy Thompson of St. Albans, Tony Thompson and Carolyn Snyder of Jericho, Jerry and Ruth Thompson of Milton, and Kevin and Beth Thompson of California; by nine grandchildren:  Mikey, Matthew, Holly, Britney, Faustine, Katelyn, Benjamin, Derek, and Timothy; great-granddaughter Gracie; his brother Oscar Krupp and his wife, Nancy, of Williston; his sister Nancy Sharlow of Wauchula, Florida; his niece Laurie Radvar of New Hampshire; his niece and goddaughter Lisa Liberty of South Burlington; his cousin Jeanette and her husband, Ralph Leo, of Colchester; and three sisters-in-law:  Teresa, Pounie and Barbara.

A short memorial service and graveside service were scheduled to be held on October 20 in South Burlington.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Good Shepherd Hospice, 1110 Hammock Road, Sebring, Florida 33870.

 Audrey J. Libby

 Audrey J. Libby, 71, died on October 15, 2012, at her home in Orleans, surrounded by her loving family.

She was born on November 16, 1940, in East Burke, a daughter of Forest and Mildred (Willey) Rexford.  On October 19, 1962, she married Bickford Libby.

Mrs. Libby was retired from the Oil Supply Corp.  She loved sewing, gardening, and spending time with her family, particularly her grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

She is survived by her husband of 50 years, Bickford Libby; her children Connie McCoy of Brownington and Donna Driver and her husband, William Driver, of Troy; by five grandchildren:  Melissa Schwarm and her husband, Scott, of Coventry, Randy Marckres and his wife, Amber, of Brownington, Timothy Marckres of Orleans, Jennifer Deyo and her husband, Zac, of Orleans, and Danielle Driver of Newport Center; by seven great-grandchildren:  Cody, Conner, Gabrielle, Madison, Sage, Noah, and Avery; by her sisters Phyliss Littleton and her husband, Hearl, of Lexington, Kentucky, Doris Lanoue and her husband, Yvon, of Westfield, Nancy Alger and her husband, David, of Lexington, and Joyce Coburn and her husband, Donald, of Orleans.

She was predeceased by her brothers Gordon Rexford and Norman Rexford.

A private graveside service will be held at the convenience of the family.

Should friends desire, contributions in her memory may be made to Orleans/Essex VNA and Hospice, 46 Lakemont Road, Newport, Vermont 05855.

Online condolences may be sent to the family through the funeral home website at www.curtis-britch.com.

Marcel G. Morin

 Marcel G. Morin

 Marcel G. Morin, 86, of New Smyrna Beach, Florida, died on Monday, October 8, 2012, at Manor on the Green in Daytona Beach, Florida.

He was born in Derby on April 30, 1926, a son of Joseph and Alice Morin.

He went to Sacred Heart High School and was drafted into the U.S. Navy.  Later he met his wife, Emma, who predeceased him in 2009.  Together they owned and operated the Border Motel and Dining Room in Derby for 21 years.  They later retired to Edgewater, Florida, where they resided for 25 years.  They owned and operated Big B Liquors, which son and daughter-in-law Michael and Sharon now own.  They always enjoyed working together and serving the public.

Mr. Morin is survived by his son Richard of South Daytona; his son Michael and his wife, Sharon, of Edgewater; and his daughter Carol of Key West; and by his grandchildren Amanda, Zackary, Ashley and Christopher.

He was predeceased by his son Mark in 2004.

A life celebration and committal will be held in Vermont in the spring.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at the funeral home website at www.BaldwinCremation.com.

David J. Murray

 David J. Murray

 A long-time resident of Dane Hill, West Charleston, David J. Murray died Saturday, October 20, 2012, in Newport.  He was 71.

He was the beloved husband of Betty (Lawson) Murray, who he married on August 24, 1963.

He was born on July 21, 1941, in Hartford, Connecticut, to David L. and Inez (Pomerleau) Murray.  He was a graduate of Bulkley High School in Hartford in the class of 1959.  He graduated from Lyndon State College in 1963 with a B.S. in education.

He taught in Vermont schools in Westford, Winooski, Newport Center, Derby Line and Sacred Heart in Newport.  He and his wife also started the Morristown Christian School in Morristown, where they both taught.

In later years he worked at Ethan Allen in Island Pond, for the Vermont Department of Social Welfare in Newport, for North East Kingdom Mental Health in Newport, for the Vermont Department of Corrections in Newport, St. Johnsbury, and Windsor, and as a paraeducator at North Country Union Junior High School in Derby.

He loved to spend time with his children and grandchildren.  He was also very involved with his animals, especially his border collies, which he trialed in the North East Border Collies Association sheepdog trials.

He is survived by his wife of 49 years, Betty; by his children: Brian and his wife, Joyce, Darren and his friend, Amy, Sharon, David E. and his fiancé, Ashley.  He is also survived by his grandchildren:  Brianne, Brian Jr., Michael, Jenna, Mariah, David A. “Buddy,” Rebecca and Ryot.

He was a member of the Zion Pentecostal Church in East Charleston.

There will be no calling hours or funeral at his request.

Condolences may be sent to Betty Murray, 2792 Dane Hill, West Charleston, Vermont 05872. Online condolences may be sent to the family through the funeral home website at www.curtis-britch.com.

Frank C. Rubino

 Frank C. Rubino

 Frank C. Rubino of Derby died suddenly on Friday, October 19, 2012, in Newport.

Mr. Rubino was born in Lawrence, Massachusetts, on January 23, 1928, to Rosario and Joesphine (Crimi) Rubino.  He was predeceased by his parents and his brothers Anthony and Joseph.

Mr. Rubino grew up in Lawrence.  He attended the John R. Rollins School and Lawrence High School; also Fitchburg State College.

Mr. Rubino joined the U.S. Navy and was sent abroad, serving on the USS Helena in the South Pacific.  He was a World War II disabled veteran.

Mr. Rubino was an avid golfer, getting a hole in one on July 15, 1977, on the Newport Country Club’s sixth hole and winning the Newport President’s Cup in August 1995.  A downhill skier, he skied every ski area in New England and Vermont.  He also skied on Mount Tremblant and Mount Sutton in Quebec, Jackson Hole, Wyoming, Heavenly Valley and Squaw Valley in Lake Tahoe.  He also enjoyed sailing, fly fishing and hunting.

Before retiring in 1988 Mr. Rubino worked for 30 years in the Lawrence School Department.  He retired as a supervisor of 73 custodians in 18 schools and facilities.

Mr. Rubino loved his best friend and faithful wife, Sharon.  He is also survived by a special cousin, Joseph (Fletcher) Rubino of Methuen, Massachusetts, and his family; by his wife’s nephew, Paul Tylee, and his children of Terrebonne, Quebec; by many good friends and his faithful dog, Champ.

As per Mr. Rubino’s wishes there will be no calling hours.  A graveside service will be held at the Derby Center Cemetery on Saturday, October 27, at 1 p.m. with the Reverend David Lisner officiating.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Mr. Rubino’s memory may be made to Dr. Robert Primeau at the Island Pond Health Care Center, 82 Maple Street, Island Pond, Vermont  05846.  Online condolences may be sent to the family through the funeral home website at www.curtis-britch.com.

Vivian E. Whipple

Vivian E. Whipple

 Vivian E. Whipple, 86, long-time resident of Newport Center, joined the love of her life for eternity when she died peacefully, surrounded by her family, at North Country Hospital in Newport on October 18, 2012.

She was born on May 25, 1926, in Westfield, the daughter of Ralph Willis and Elsie Besaw.

Vivian Elsie Willis married Gilbert Whipple on December 29, 1943.  She loved him with her entire heart and soul, and she loved her life as a farmer’s wife, a mother, a grandmother, a great-grandmother, and a great-great grandmother.  She found total joy from a life some might consider mundane and simple because she always understood there is no job title that holds greater prestige than that of wife, mother, and grandmother.

She raised her six children — and she helped raise many others who called her “Ma,” “Mom,” “Grammy,” and “Aunt Vivian.”  She could prepare a meal that would cause the world’s most famous chefs to nod in approval.  She could wake up in the morning and have a dozen pies cooling in the kitchen before 8 a.m.

She could plant a garden that would make people who were driving by stop their vehicle to take a closer look at the perfection and the bounty.  She could turn that garden into shelves full of pickles, jam, relish, and vegetables to share with friends and family throughout the winter.

She could convince her young grandchildren that there was no greater token of her love for them than the firm tap of a wooden cooking spoon on their behind to remind them of the importance of appropriate behavior.  She would drop whatever she was doing at a moment’s notice to go and help a neighbor in need.  She worked hard, she loved freely, and she touched many with her kindness.

Vivian and Gilbert Whipple lived a long and beautiful love story, and she was never able to get a mind’s eye picture of her life without him.  Her wealth was not defined in money, but she gave her family a gift that all the riches in the world cannot purchase — the gift of knowing she always stood beside them, and she always loved them without question.  She is greatly loved, and she will be greatly missed.

Mrs. Whipple leaves her six children:  Joyce Twing of Chelsea, Evelyn Kelley of Newport Center, Beverly Schinck and her husband, Denis, of Highwater, Quebec, Donna Whipple of Cranston, Rhode Island, Wayne Whipple of Wells River and his long-time friend, Arthur Hull, of Boston, Massachusetts, and Ed Whipple and his wife, Kate, of Coventry; by eight grandchildren:  Shawn Twing and his wife, Collins, of Chelsea, Carmen McCammon of Newport, Carla Whipple of Cranston, Jeremy Schinck of Grand Prairie, Alberta, Vance Schinck of Fulford, Quebec, Ryan and Connor Fletcher of Coventry, and Brooke Thomas of North Troy; by her nine great-grandchildren:  Seth Demers of Newport, Trisha, Autumn, Deztyni, Marquis, and Vincent Whipple of Cranston, Kari Twing of Chelsea, and Macy and Cody Schinck of Fulford; and by one great-great-granddaughter, Emily Jane Demers of Newport; as well as several nieces and nephews.

She was predeceased by her husband in 2010, her mother in 1931, her father in 1960, her four brothers:  Richard Willis in 1953, Cecil Willis in 1992, Lawrence Willis in 1998, and Donald Willis in 2000, an infant son, Calvin, in 1951, and a son-in-law, Bruce Twing, in 1999.

Calling hours were scheduled on Wednesday, October 24, from 4 to 7 p.m. at the Curtis-Britch-Converse-Rushford Funeral Home at 4675 Darling Hill in Newport.  The funeral will be held at 1 p.m. on Thursday, October 25, at the Newport Center Advent Christian Church.

After the funeral, friends are invited to follow the hearse for Mrs. Whipple’s final tribute ride on the Number 12 Road past the farmstead and home she loved to her resting place beside her husband at the Newport Center Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers the family requests you consider a contribution in Mrs. Whipple’s memory to the Pope Memorial Frontier Animal Shelter, 4473 Barton-Orleans Road, Orleans, Vermont 05860.  In lieu of flowers or monetary contributions, there would be no greater tribute to Mrs. Whipple’s memory than to simply perform a random act of kindness for someone in need.

Online condolences may be sent to the family through the funeral home website at www.curtis-britch.com.

Marilyn J. Wade

 Marilyn J. Wade

 Marilyn J. Wade, 79, of Island Pond died on October 17, 2012, in Lyndonville.

She was born on March 2, 1933, in Canaan, a daughter of Earl and Margaret (Edwards) Gray. She graduated from Canaan High School.  She was married to Edgar Leigh, who predeceased her in 1955, on January 3, 1952.  She later married Joseph A. Wade, who predeceased her in 1999.

Mrs. Wade is survived by her five sons:  Edgar T. Leigh of Newport, Earl E. Leigh and his wife, Wendy, of Holland, Sidney G. Leigh and his wife, Carol, of Island Pond, Joseph A. “Lonnie” Wade and his wife, Pam, of Derby, and Timothy M. Wade of Sumter, South Carolina; by her brothers and sisters:  Anna Johnson of Orleans, Gleigh Heath and her husband, William, of Island Pond, Patricia Gray and her friend, Diane Brindley, of St. Johnsbury, Charlotte Gunn of Island Pond, Virginia Wing and her husband, Alan, of Island Pond, and Niles “Jody” Gray and his wife, Monique, of  Coventry; by her sister-in-law Gunda Gray of Danville; by her grandchildren:  Felicia Farrow, Melissa Marcinkeviez, Jana and Gabriel Leigh, Laura Bixby, Serena and Chad Leigh, Joey and Justin Wade; and by many  great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and cousins.

She was predeceased by two brothers, Earl and Glen Gray, and a grandson, Joshua Leigh.

Mrs. Wade was employed as a secretary for the Navy Department in the early 1950s, and she was a longtime employee of Community National Bank in Island Pond.  She held memberships with the Order of the Eastern Star and American Legion Auxiliary Post #80 of Island Pond.  She enjoyed baking Sunday evening meals, crossword puzzles, and most of all spending time with her family.

Funeral services were scheduled to be held on October 22 with the Reverend Alan Magoon officiating at the Curtis-Britch-Converse-Rushford Funeral Home in Island Pond with interment to follow in Lakeside Cemetery in Island Pond.

Should friends desire, contributions in Mrs. Wade’s memory may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association of Vermont, 300 Corner Stone Drive, Suite 128, Williston, Vermont 05495.

Online condolences may be sent to the family through the funeral home website at www.curtis-britch.com.

Kil “Kim” Wheeler

 Kil “Kim” S. Wheeler

 Kil “Kim” S. Wheeler, 53, of Morgan died at her home on October 15, 2012.

She was born on February 14, 1959, in Changhung-Kun, Korea, a daughter of Chu Pae Kim and Pok Im An.  She came to the United States in 1982 and lived in Kansas for two or three years before moving to New Hampshire where she lived until 1996.  She then came to Morgan.

Ms. Wheeler’s son and daughter gratefully appreciate all the many acts of kindness — visits, cooking, helping — from the members of the Morgan United Church, as well as from other friends during her six-year battle with cancer.

She is survived by her children:  John Moodie of Island Pond and Michelle Reynolds of Massachusetts; and her three grandchildren:  Makiyah Reynolds, Reya Berrios, and Angel Berrios, all of Massachusetts.

It was her wish that there be no ceremony and that her ashes be scattered at a later date at the convenience of the family.

Should friends desire, contributions in her memory may be made to the Morgan United Church, 14 Meade Hill Road, Morgan, Vermont 05853, or to the Island Pond Health Care Center, P.O. Box 425, Island Pond, Vermont 05846.

Online condolences may be sent to the family through the funeral home website at www.curtis-britch.com.

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