Obituaries September 21, 2016

Posted on September 19, 2016 by editor

Harriet (Darby) Downing

Harriet (Darby) Downing died on September 15, 2016, at the age of 91, at her home in Derby Line.

She was born on December 19, 1924, in Newport, to Ruth (Jenne) and Cyril Reading Darby.

She graduated from Derby Academy in the class of 1942, and from Green Mountain College in 1944. Upon graduation she was employed at the National Bank of Derby Line (now Community National Bank). In June of 1947, she married Dalton “Bud” Downing and they took residence in Stanstead, Quebec, before moving to Derby Line. He predeceased her on July 30, 2007.

Ms. Downing was a member of St. Edward’s Catholic Church and sang for many years in the choir. She was a member of the ladies auxiliary.

Ms. Downing was predeceased by her parents Ruth and Cyril; and her brothers and sisters-in-law: Robert and Alberta Darby of Derby Line, and Paul and Beverly Darby of Middleton, Rhode Island.

She is survived by her four children: Michael Downing and his wife, Celeste, of Derby Line, Elizabeth and her husband, Bruce Urie, of Craftsbury, Mary and her husband, Bruce Muir, of Derby Line, and Judith and her husband, Kevin Coy, of Barton; also by her grandchildren: Caitlin Downing and her husband, Jamie Yu, Sarah Nusbaum and her husband, Matt, Amanda Woodey and her husband, Kirk, Timothy Urie and his wife, Faith, Heather Urie, Analesa Muir, Eilish Muir, Andrew Coy and his wife, Lauren, Daniel Coy and his wife, Autumn, Samuel Coy and his wife, Heidi Johnson, and Rachel Malachuk, and her husband, Stephen Malachuk IV. She is also survived by 11 great-grandchildren, with one on the way; and several nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, September 21, at St. Edward’s Catholic Church in Derby Line, where a Mass will be celebrated. Interment will follow in St. Edward’s Cemetery in Derby Line.

Should friends desire, contributions in honor of Ms. Downing can be made to the Haskell Library, P.O. Box 337, Derby Line, Vermont 05830, or to the Derby Historical Society, 55 Junior High Drive, Derby, Vermont 05829. Online condolences can be made at curtis-britch.com.

Shirley Marie Hemenway

Shirley Marie Hemenway, 93, of Orleans, died peacefully on September 11, 2016 in Newport.

She was born on June 18, 1923, in Irasburg, to Howard and Maybelle (Dion) Kennison. On August 20, 1940, she married Fern Hemenway who predeceased her on December 7, 2015.

She was employed for five years at Ethan Allen Manufacturing. Among her hobbies she enjoyed quilting, making quilts for all her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She was also a seamstress, an avid reader, and she was well known for her home-made raspberry pies and baked beans. She loved to play cards with family and friends.

She was a special Christmas Club member for 57 years, as she was the last of these members. She was very active in the 4-H Club.

Ms. Hemenway is survived by her children: Hale Fern Hemenway and his wife, Sandra Jean, of Florida, Shirley Devine and her husband, Allan, of Inverness, Florida, Carol Jaing and her husband, Joseph, of Massachusetts, Jacqueline Mei of New York, and Eugene Mei of Colorado. She is also survived by many grandchildren; great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandchild. She was predeceased by her daughter Sandra Lee Wentworth; by five brothers; and one sister.

Funeral services were held on Saturday September 17, at St. Theresa’s Catholic Church in Orleans, where a Mass was celebrated by the Reverend Timothy Naples. Interment followed in Pleasantview Cemetery in Orleans.

Should friends desire, contributions in her memory may be made to the Mary Halo Foundation, 1073 Upper Quarry Road, Newport, Vermont 05855.

Online condolences can be made at curtis-britch.com.

Frederick John Henry Jr.

Frederick John Henry Jr., known to his friends and family as Fritz, died in his sleep during the early morning hours of August 28, 2016, at his home in St. Johnsbury. His peaceful death at age 92 follows by just ten weeks the passing of his spouse, Margaret Andrus Henry, to whom he was married for 64 years.

Mr. Henry will be remembered by all who knew him for the warmth of his deep rolling laugh, and his friendly and humble Midwestern “good people” ways. He was a born storyteller, and a prolific letter writer. Many of his acquaintances recall being surprised and pleased to find themselves being addressed by him as “Friend,” or, more often, as “Pal.”

Born on June 20, 1924, Mr. Henry was raised in Hinsdale, Illinois, the only child of Frederick John Henry and Miriam Florence Daughetee Henry. His mother was the eleventh of 14 children from a farming family. His father was a World War I veteran, who began his working life helping his father run a Harley-Davidson repair shop in Connersville, Indiana, and who then worked the rest of his life as an electrical engineer for the phone company. Mr. Henry’s parents met when Ms. Daughetee took a job as a telephone operator as a teenager, and he was born the year his mother turned 22.

Mr. Henry excelled as a student as a youngster, and participated locally in multiple sports, earning many ribbons in athletic competitions at Cassell’s Boy’s Club, such as “Fancy Diving,” and many other swimming awards. A lifelong golfer, he enjoyed playing golf on weekends with his parents throughout his adolescent years, and was a member of his high school tennis team, his college football team, and his college and medical school diving teams.

Mr. Henry was a 16-year-old senior at Hinsdale Township High School, president of the student council, when he was offered full scholarships at both Williams College and Amherst College. He chose Williams, and had completed his sophomore year there when Harvard Medical School invited him to forgo his next two years of college and enter the medical school as a first-year student. He eagerly accepted, but by then there was a war going on.

Mr. Henry’s time in the Navy during World War II would be the formative experience of his young life. For more than three years he served onboard the LCS-11, an amphibious gunboat known as the “Lucky 11,” rising from communications officer to the rank of executive officer, and receiving combat awards for shooting down kamikazes near Okinawa — “picket patrol,” he called it — and for blowing up mines near what is now Taiwan. He shared with family members that some of his most daunting days had come while helping the ship to ride out a typhoon off the Okinawa coast.

After the war ended, Mr. Henry returned to Williams College on the GI Bill, graduating in 1948. He put his war experiences behind him then, but years later began attending the Lucky 11’s reunions in different cities across the country and renewed his bonds with the gunboat’s officers and crew with whom he’d served so many decades ago, staying in close touch with them into his nineties.

Mr. Henry was working at Macy’s in Manhattan when he met Ms. “Peggy” Andrus, a recent Stanford graduate from Bronxville, New York, who was also employed there. They were married in 1952 and, following stays in New York City and Wichita, Kansas, settled in the suburb of Livingston, New Jersey, with their two daughters, Lucy Anne and Gretchen.

He worked in personnel his entire career, at a series of publishing houses and eventually a consulting firm, attaining a series of executive positions, lecturing and writing on topics of significance in his field, and earning a host of professional honors. Yet Mr. Henry would never allow his job to define his life. Throughout his life, he remained an avid reader, always with a book in his hand, devouring two or three each week. He was an occasional skier, a crossword puzzle enthusiast, a student of early woodworking techniques, a dedicated genealogist and history buff. A steady golfer with a flawless one-iron stroke, he once dissolved into helpless laughter when a Christmas gift of personalized tees rendered his first name as “Firtz.”

He was a staunch supporter of his daughters’ aspirations and education: he was a founding member of the “Support for Excellence in Education” committee in their hometown and served as a trustee at Far Brook School in Short Hills, New Jersey.

After retiring in 1989, he and Mrs. Henry moved to St. Johnsbury, drawn by its scenic beauty, its cultural life, and the warmth and kindness of its citizens. With his full beard and his rich, resonant voice, Mr. Henry would become a familiar figure around town, especially at the Athenaeum and at First Night, when in the dark and the chill he would calmly make his intrepid way, deftly deploying a cane, to see the performers he’d picked out in advance.

He and Mrs. Henry became world travelers, always eager to explore new destinations around the globe. He relished his role as a grandfather, regaling his grandchildren with tales from his war days, or observations on the current political and societal scene gleaned from his many hours of reading the newspaper, his stories frequently punctuated by a booming, merry laugh. For decades, Mr. Henry took great joy in his time at the family-owned island near Newport, where he could read amid nature’s glories while assiduously keeping footpaths free from twigs, debris, and brush. And as he prepared to plunge into the waters of Lake Memphremagog or into the municipal pool in Livingston, relatives would see occasional glimpses of the form that had put him on the varsity swim team at Williams and Harvard, and that, back in 1937, had earned him high honors for “Fancy Diving.”

Mr. Henry is survived and eternally loved by his daughters, Lucy Anne Shrenker of Monson, Massachusetts and Gretchen Henry-Connelly of Los Angeles, California; sons-in-law Paul Shrenker and Chris Connelly; grandchildren Aurelia Shrenker, Ariane Shrenker Christensen, William Shrenker, Tempe Shrenker, Henry Connelly, Rose Connelly, and Gabriel Connelly; his brothers-in-law George Grady and Carl Andrus; his sisters-in-law Georgeann Andrus, Noelle Andrus and Anne Grady; and many nieces, nephews, grand-nephews, and grand-nieces who will never forget his kindly ways and considerate manner. All these, and so many more, will forever hold his memory dear and honor his service to our country.

Mr. Henry’s family’s gratitude goes to the people of St. Johnsbury and to the wonderful people who helped to care for him in recent years.

Harold Edward “Red” Kelley Jr.

Harold Edward “Red” Kelley Jr., of Brownington, died suddenly on September 8, 2016, in Portland, Maine.

He was born on May 18, 1940, in Newport, to Harold and Gladys (Shackette) Kelley Sr.

Mr. Kelley was a supervisor for Newport Plastics and later was a bus driver for North Country Union High School.

He enjoyed fishing, hunting, and riding his motorcycle, and loved to travel to Old Orchard, Maine. He was a loving father and grandfather.

He is survived by his daughter Tammy Kelley and her companion, Allen Marsh, of Brownington; by his grandchildren: Justin Lamonda of Newport, Brandie Parks and her husband, Tim, of Texas, Mandie Perry and her husband, Luke, of North Troy, Seanna Kelley and her companion, Shane Barry, of Newport; and by his great-grandchildren: Natalie, Armand, Heidi, Kallie, Kaleb, Shelby-Rae, Destiny, and Xavier.

He is also survived by his sister Joyce Ayer and her husband, Dennis, of Newport; his nephew Michael Cordeau and his wife, Lisa; his niece Kristy Pillsbury and her husband, Jamie, of Jay; and by great nieces Allison and Beth; and by many friends.

A graveside service will be held at 10 a.m. on Saturday, September 24, at Pine Grove Cemetery in Newport. Online condolences can be made at curtis-britch.com.

Nancy June McGivern

Nancy June McGivern, 83, of Newport, died on September 11, 2016, in Newport.

She was born on June 13, 1933, in Newport, to Clinton and Marion (Spear) Fairbrother. Ms. McGivern was a graduate of Newport High School and a life-long resident of Newport. She had resided for a time at the Scenic View Community Care Home in Westfield.

She is survived by her children: Rosalie Putnam of Coolville, Ohio, Eric McGivern of Newport, and Keith McGivern of Derby. She is also survived by her grandson Christopher Putnam of Spencer, West Virginia; by her sister Ellen Graveline of Derby; and by her special friend Carolyn LaRock of Coventry. She was predeceased by her son Brian McGivern.

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

Services will be held at the convenience of the family.

Online condolences can be made at curtis-britch.com.

Richard “Dick” Roberts

Richard “Dick” Roberts, 82, of Lewiston, Maine, and formerly of Gray, Maine, died on Monday, September 12, 2016, at his home in Lewiston.

He was born in Barton on March 27, 1934, son of Vernon and Sylvia (Perry) Roberts. He received his education in a one-room schoolhouse and high school at Barton Academy, graduating with second honors. He spent his army time in Fort Dix, New Jersey, Fort Gordon, Georgia, and as a high-speed Morse code and teletype operator in Korea. He returned home and worked for E.M. Brown and Son in Barton for 11 years, a job he loved very much.

His greatest love was his special one and only wife, Jeannine (Racicot), who he married after his return from Korea. They both came from farm families so stayed in agriculture until his retirement in 1996 due to health problems. He worked on high-end registered Jersey, Guernsey, and Holstein herds at Wonderview Farm in Barton; Bushy Park Farm in Wake, Virginia; and Wilsondale Farm in Gray, Maine. He then became a professional artificial insemination technician for Eastern A.I., later Genex, in Ithaca, New York, remaining in Maine in his own unit covering parts of York, Cumberland, Oxford and Androscoggin counties. He was Eastern’s overall technician in 1978 in New England and New York, and received many other awards. He always gave his farmers the credit for his success. He enjoyed counting them all as his friends and putting their goals and success ahead of his own. He loved being outside and around nature all those years.

His wife and his family were front and center, and he never felt he enjoyed them enough because he worked long stretches at a time with very few weekends off. But after his retirement, he made up for lost time. His best saying was, “Do your giving while you’re living,” and he and Mrs. Roberts taught their grown children that way. His hobbies were little things like reading, puzzles, travelling the United States, sports (especially at play-off time), playing cards, and seeing his grandchildren grow. He played baseball semi-pro for a while and was known as a better than average hitter, playing centerfield or catching, even winning a batting championship in 1961.

He is survived by his wife and best friend of 57 years, Jeannine; and their four children and their families: Doug and his son Matt, Doug’s wife, Cheryl, and their daughter Abigail; David and his wife, Michelle, and their twins Digby and Wylie; Dan and his son Zachary, and daughter Cordiela; and Diane, and her husband, Mark, and their daughter Madison and son Andrew. He is also survived by one sister, Gertrude Scheer, from Bayside Hills, New York; one brother George, and his wife, Barbara, of Woodbury, Connecticut; and by nieces; nephews; in-laws; and outlaws.

He was predeceased by his parents; a brother Ernest, and his wife, Madeline; and by nephew Jimmy, his godson.

Visitation was held at the Wilson Funeral Home in Gray on September 16.

Donations in Mr. Roberts’ name can be made to the American Heart Association at www.heart.org.

Online condolences can be made at www.wilsonfhllc.com.

Obituaries September 14, 2016

Posted on September 12, 2016 by editor

Robert “Bob” Garfield Baker

Robert (Bob) Garfield Baker, 86, died peacefully at his home in Newport, surrounded by his family on September 6, 2016.

He was born on April 9, 1930, in Newport to Stanley and Doris (Leavitt) Baker. On September 11, 1954, he married Hilda Manning, the love of his life, who predeceased him on June 15, 2015.

Mr. Baker was a graduate of Newport High School. He honorably served on active duty in the United States Navy from July of 1948, through July of 1952. He worked many years for the Newport Daily Express, and then as assistant postmaster for the United States Post Office in Newport until he retired.

Among his hobbies, Mr. Baker enjoyed fishing and hunting (often with his good friend Joe Coutu who predeceased him), bowling on a league in Derby, and playing cribbage (frequently with his son Brad). Mr. Baker was also an avid Red Sox fan and enjoyed discussing the games with his brother Don. He also enjoyed trips with his wife to Nashville, Tennessee, and Branson, Missouri, to see the singers and listen to country music. In recent years his favorite pastime was sitting on his front porch and waving to friends and neighbors as they drove or walked by his home.

Mr. Baker devoted his life to his wife and children. There was nothing he enjoyed more than being with his family.

He is survived by his children: Debbie Gebbie and her husband, Brad, of Glover, Brenda McNeal and her husband, Tim, of Mobile, Alabama, Bradley Baker and his wife, Jodi, of Newport, and Kim Fortin and her husband, Bob, of Goffstown, New Hampshire. He is also survived by his grandchildren: Megan Duquette and her husband, Jonny, of Billings, Montana, Jenna Hurd and her husband, Tom, of St. Johnsbury, Taylor Fortin and Michael Fortin both of Goffstown; and by his great-grandchildren: Owen Hurd, and Kylee and Kinsley Duquette. He is survived by his siblings: Betty Ann Finn of St. Albans, Donald Baker and his wife, Polly, of Summerfield, Florida, Stanley Baker and his wife, Mimi, of Derby, Mona Lewis and her husband, Mickey, of Newport, Doris Demers and her husband, Leo, of Whitefield, New Hampshire, and Valda Cole of Arcadia, Florida; along with many nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his sisters Vera McFarlane, and Bonnie Bullis and her husband, Rob; his brothers Larry Baker and his wife, Laura, Winston Kelley, and Larry Kelley; and by his brothers-in-law Mickey McFarlane, and Winfield Cole.

A graveside service will be held at 11 a.m. on Thursday, September 29, at the Pine Grove Cemetery in Newport with the Reverend Kelly Delauries officiating, including full military honors.

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, or to the Vermont Fish and Game Department, 1 National Life Drive, Montpelier, Vermont 05602.

Online condolences may be made at curtis-britch.com.

Rolande Laurette Bathalon

Rolande Laurette Bathalon, 84, of Troy, died peacefully at her home in Newport on Friday, September 2 surrounded by her children.

Ms. Bathalon was born the first of eight children to Philippe and Bernadette Lauzon in Mawcook, Quebec, on January 1, 1932. She was predeceased by her loving husband, Roger Bathalon on September 4, 1989.

She lived a full life, first as a farmer’s daughter helping her father, then as a farmer’s wife, homemaker, and mother. Life took a turn when Mr. Bathalon changed careers to become a carpenter and she helped him build two homes. She enjoyed many years working as a chambermaid at Hotel Jay, and as a seamstress for Bogner Sports in Newport. All the while she provided a loving home for family and friends to gather for good food and lots of laughter, and there was always cold beer on hand. She enjoyed many friends, and was often seen helping out at church functions, or more often on the dance floor with her husband. Her passion was working in her flowers, both inside and out. As she said many times in later life: “I would do it all again.”

The last of her generation for the Bathalon family, she is survived by her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren: Paul and Lucy, their children: Sarah and Emma and her partner, Ryan; Gaston and Rose, their children Amanda (Sister Regina SCC), Emilie and Joshua White, and their children: Theodore and Catherine, Phillip and Colleen, and Jeffrey; André, and his children: Megan and Matthew Cameron, and their children: Bryce and Nora, Eben and Sue, and their children: Sofie and André; Rachel and Mike Wehner, and their children: Kevin and his partner, Rachel, Katelynn, and Kristopher; Michael, his daughter Kara and her husband, Ian Bouchette, and their children: Noah and Owen.

She is also survived by her siblings: Jim Lauzon and his spouse, Carol, Lise Turgeon, John Lauzon and his partner, Lucy, and Denise Guillemette and her spouse, Roland; by many nieces, nephews and extended family and friends.

She is predeceased by three siblings: Gelles Lauzon, Giselle Roberts and Albert Lauzon.

A Mass was celebrated at the Sacred Heart of Jesus Catholic Church in Troy on September 10, followed by interment in St. Ignatius of Loyola Catholic Cemetery in Lowell.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, Northern New England Chapter, which can be found online at www.cff.org, or by calling: (603) 598-8191. Anyone wishing to make a donation is asked to mention the Cameron Family Crusaders when doing so.

Chester “Chet” A. Carpenter Jr.

Chester “Chet” A. Carpenter Jr., 95, died at his home in Newport on September 6, 2016.

He was born in Derby on October 11, 1920, to Beryl (Temple) and Chester A. Carpenter Sr.

He worked hard on the family farm and grew up next door to the love of his life, Wilma White. He graduated from Derby Academy, class of 1938, and faithfully attended yearly alumni banquets.

He answered the call to serve his country during World War II, joining the Army and serving in the Pacific Theater. He survived the sinking of the S.S. President Coolidge in October, 1942, just months after marrying his beloved Wilma. In 1943, he received the Soldier’s Medal for heroism in the Solomon Islands for an incident he rarely talked about, but involved live ammunition and fire. He and his wife both attended the University of Connecticut on the GI Bill after they got out of the service.

Following the war, he and his brother-in-law Maurice Marsh owned and operated a machine tool shop on Union Street (Marsh and Carpenter) for many years. He could literally fix anything and made incredible and fun toys for his kids.

Being very civic minded, he volunteered his time to various local organizations and his opinions were highly respected.

Mr. Carpenter had a tremendous knowledge of local history and enjoyed sharing information with friends and family. He was an avid reader and had a bookshelf full of books on history and biographies. He was an avid antique bottle and postcard collector. He loved being involved in local historical groups. He never met a squirrel, bird, or chipmunk he would not feed.

He was a member of the Derby Community Church, and a true man of God.

He and Mrs. Carpenter spent many quality hours at their camp on Salem Lake with family and friends. He loved his family and his church first and foremost.

Mr. Carpenter is survived by his daughter Kathy; sisters-in-law: Joan Carpenter of Newport, and Joyce Carpenter of Williston; several nieces and nephews; and many church family members, whom he also considered family. He was especially pleased with Susan Barnett and thankful for all of the assistance over the last several months.

He was predeceased by his parents; eight siblings; his dear wife Mrs. Carpenter (after 50 years of marriage); his daughter-in-law Carol; and his son Jerry Carpenter.

A funeral service will be held on Wednesday, September 14, at 11 a.m., at the Derby Community Church in Derby, with the Reverends Fred and Carol Barker officiating.

Following the service, the interment will take place in the Derby Center Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Mr. Carpenter’s name to the Derby Community Church, P.O. Box 294, Derby, Vermont 05829, or to the Old Stone House Museum, 109 Old Stone House Drive, Brownington, Vermont 05860.

Online condolences may be made at www.curtis-britch.com.

Nathaniel N. Cote

The blow was great, the shock severe,

We little thought his death so near.

But only those who have lost can tell

The pain of parting without farewell.

Nathaniel N. Cote died peacefully in his sleep on August 29, 2016, in Newport.

He was born on July 12, 1981 in Newport. He was the beloved son of Marie C. Joyce (Norton) and Baxter D. McNeal. He was a loving father to his two children, Damon and Jade Cote, who were the sunshine in his life. He is also survived by his brother Christopher Cote and Christopher’s children, Donald, Makayla, Dalton, Kiana, Dakota, and Noah; his sister Denise Willis and her three children: Alice, Edmund, and Andrew.

“Nate” as he liked to be called, attended North Country Union High School in Newport, Bellows Falls Academy in St. Albans, and Sheldon Elementary School, all in Vermont.

He enjoyed the outdoors, hiking, fishing, walking, and picnics, especially with his children.

Most recently, he was employed by Kingdom Property and previously for Round Hill Fencing Company. He also worked for sawmills in Irasburg and Coventry.

He had a great sense of humor and a kind spirit, paying special attention to those in need. His couch was for anyone who needed a good night’s sleep.

He was predeceased by his maternal grandmother, “Nanny;” his grandfather; and his uncle, Dale Norton; as well as his paternal grandparents.

Mr. Cote will always be missed by his aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends near and far. He will be forever cherished by his parents and sorely missed by his two children.

A private memorial will be held at the family’s convenience.

Condolences can be sent to 4 McNeal Heights, Newport, Vermont 05855.

Joyce Ellen (Jones) Poulin

Joyce Ellen (Jones) Poulin, 87, of Newport died peacefully at Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center in Lebanon, New Hampshire, on September 6, 2016.

Mrs. Poulin was born to Guild and Ellen Jones in North Troy on May 31, 1929.

In 1947, she married Gaston Poulin, her loving husband of 69 years who will greatly miss their shared life of simple pleasures. As they entered their senior years, Mr. and Mrs. Poulin maintained an exceptional focus and devotion to spending time with family and friends. Mrs. Poulin’s stories, memories, and laughter filled their home when their frequent visitors stopped by. Much to the pleasure of their grown children, Mr. and Mrs. Poulin developed quite a fondness for the Boston Red Sox after their 2004 World Series win. Always ready to share a drink with her adult extended family, or a Hershey’s Kiss with her great-grandchildren, her love and kindness knew no limits.

Mrs. Poulin was predeceased by her parents, Guild and Ellen Jones; by her sisters: Wilda Smith and Jennie Mae Louis; and by her grandchild, Shawn Stephen Poulin, who always held a very special place in her heart.

She will be deeply missed by her children: Steve Poulin and his wife, Valerie, of Derby, Peter Poulin and his wife, Diana, of Newport, Jeffrey Poulin and his wife, Tracey, of Newport, and Nancy Poulin of Derby.

Her grandchildren will profoundly miss her love. Her grandchildren are: Topher Poulin, Cory Poulin and his wife, Julie, Sonya Jones and her husband, Troy, Stephanie Estes and her husband, Corey, Stephanie Delabruere, Josh Poulin and his wife, Jen, Jenna Poutre and her husband, Matt, Samantha Cole, Arden Leitheid, Johanna Bartley and her husband, Travis, and Jessica Poulin.

Mrs. Poulin was adored and will be greatly missed by her many great-grandchildren: Sydney and Ryder Poulin, Zoe, Tanner, Hattie and Slater Jones, Reilley and Colby Estes, Rhiannon, Traven and Kaden Rosamilia, Mya, Star, Quinne and Hudson Poulin, Jaida and Henry Poutre, and Madyson, Colton and Denver Bartley.

Mrs. Poulin’s pure, unconditional love for her family and friends will be her legacy. As we grieve her loss, we will forever cherish how special she made each one of us feel. Not a gathering, visit or call went by without a “love you” from our beloved Nan. These words will be our comfort as we gather together to celebrate her life.

A celebration of Mrs. Poulin’s life was held on September 12 at St. Edward’s Church in Derby Line.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Mrs. Poulin’s memory may be sent to United Christian Academy, 65 School Street, Newport, Vermont 05855, or to Boys Town, 14100 Crawford Street, Boys Town, Nebraska 68010.

Online condolences can be made at curtis-britch.com.

Marion Elsie Souliere

Marion Elsie Souliere of Lyndonville died peacefully at the age of 63, on August 19, 2016.

Ms. Souliere was born in Newport on October 21, 1952, to John C. Hinman and Marion Alma (Wallace) Hinman. She married Robert (Bob) Souliere on September 29, 1973. They lived in various places before they settled in Lyndonville in February 1982, where they raised their three beautiful children, enjoying life to the fullest.

Ms. Souliere took much pride in being a beloved wife, mother, and grandmother. She was always involved and attending her children’s athletic, school, or social events throughout all her years, and definitely was their number one fan. She always supported her husband in his professional career and all of his coaching positions throughout the years. She truly took so much pride and joy in her family, they meant everything to her. Hosting family holidays was so special to her. Her passion and commitment as a mother and grandmother continued on as she supported her seven grandchildren in their daily lives and events.

Ms. Souliere also had her own business for many years, Wholesome Health. She loved taking care of people. Ms. Souliere was a social, active woman, deeply involved in many activities. She enjoyed social gatherings with her family and friends, knitting (many, many gifts to many people), golfing, and collecting various types of antiques.

Ms. Souliere and her husband purchased a second home in The Villages, Florida, in 2008. It was there she rediscovered her passion for billiards. She participated in many leagues and was recruited to join several elite teams. She loved her time in The Villages, where she made some amazing friends, loved entertaining, and enjoyed many activities.

Ms. Souliere is survived by her husband Bob of Lyndonville; her son and daughter-in-law Josh and Stacy Souliere of South Ryegate; her daughter and son-in-law Jacinta and Greg Jones of Sagamore Beach, Massachusetts; her daughter and son-in-law Julia and Brandon Thrailkill of Lyndonville; her seven loving grandchildren: Lilly Jones, Kelsie Jones, Grant Jones, Julian Thrailkill, Grady Souliere, Elena Souliere, and Drake Thrailkill; her sister Alta Jenness and husband, Ed, of Derby Line; her sister Wenda Aceto and husband, Richie, of Herndon, Virginia; her brother Tim Hinman and wife, Debbie, of North Derby; her sister Margaret Maxwell and husband, Stewart, of Coventry; her mother-in-law Lillian Souliere of Dover, New Hampshire; her sister-in-law Denise Souliere of Dover; her sister-in-law Lynn Neal and husband, Scott, of Monmouth, Maine; her sister-in-law Faith Robinson and husband, Jeff, of Riverview, Florida; and many nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her father, John Carlton Hinman, and mother, Marion Alma Hinman, of Newport.

Ms. Souliere will always be remembered by her bright blue eyes, her charismatic smile that would light up any room, and her loving and caring heart. Her family and friends will always remember her as a friendly, welcoming, loving person who everyone loved and respected. We will truly miss her, very much.

A Mass is scheduled for 10 a.m. on September 17, at St. Elizabeth Catholic Church in Lyndonville. A burial will follow at the Lyndon Center Cemetery. Then a celebration of Ms. Souliere’s life will follow at the Burke Mountain Resort Hotel. Anyone wishing to make a donation to a fund that was organized for Ms. Souliere by her friends in The Villages, can do so at www.crowdrise.com/marion-souliere.

There will also be a celebration of life in The Villages at a later date.

Marion Taylor

A wise person once said, “If you wish to be heard, whisper. If you wish to be seen, walk slowly, with purpose.” Such has been the experience and life of a lady of diminutive stature, seemingly endless energy, and countless good works. R. Marion Taylor, 93, died on a sunny morning, September 1, 2016, among family and her Forest Hill Residential Care Home friends in Hyde Park.

Ms. Taylor was born November 9, 1922, to Clement and Mary Taylor in Irasburg. She attended one-room schools in Glover and Albany until high school in Newport. She attended Lyndon Normal School (now Lyndon State College) and the University of Vermont. Ms. Taylor’s forty-year teaching career included one-room schools in Albany and Glover, as well as Barton and Orleans Elementary Schools, before going to teach at the Molly Stark School in the Bennington School District. Her last teaching assignment was St. Paul’s School in Barton.

Beyond that, Ms. Taylor was a lifelong volunteer and held multiple memberships in organizations within her community, state, and church. To name a few, she gave time on behalf of the American Legion Auxiliary, the Johnson Food Shelf, Delta Kappa Gamma, retired teachers, and the Most Holy Name of Jesus Parish. She always maintained that it was because “she had the time” that she took up the baton to get things done when she determined a need.

Travel is synonymous with leisure for most people. Ms. Taylor’s travels were events of pilgrimage to the Holy Land, Rome, France, Ireland, and Montreal, as well as national and state conventions working for retired teachers and the American Association of Retired Persons.

Ms. Taylor is survived by her brothers: Adelord and his wife, Lois, of Barton, and Richard of West Glover; sister-in-law, Betty, of Johnson; and three generations of nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her parents; her brothers: Wilfred, Preston, and Edwin; sisters-in-law: Theresa and Helen; and nephews: Dennis Taylor and William Taylor.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in memory of Ms. Taylor to the Johnson Food Shelf, P.O. Box 17, Johnson, Vermont 05656. Ms. Taylor was instrumental in developing the Johnson Food Shelf some twenty odd years ago to help reduce, if not eradicate, hunger in the community. She volunteered there until 2015 when ill health prevented her from continuing.

A Mass was celebrated on September 6 at the Holy Cross Church in Morrisville, followed by interment at St. Paul’s Cemetery in Barton.

Online condolences may be made by visiting faithfh.net.

Obituaries September 7, 2016

Posted on September 6, 2016 by editor

Calvin E. Bennett Jr.

Calvin E. Bennett Jr., 82, of West Charleston, died peacefully on August 24, 2016, in Barton.

He was born on July 4, 1934, in Holland to Calvin E. and Bernice (Powers) Bennett.

In 1954 he married Shirley Manzer of Ipswich, Massachusetts.

They had three children: Calvin III, William Fred, and Lucinda Bennett. In 1963, he married Leila Fay of Belchertown, Massachusetts, who survives him. They had six children: Clifton Bennett and his wife, Patricia, of Cornish, New Hampshire, Christine Shatney and her husband, Steve, of Greensboro Bend, Carolyn Bennett of Brownington, Cathleen Sargent and her fiancé, Paul Tamaulty, of Orange, Crystal Bennett and her partner, Ronalda Bancroft, of Essex Junction, and Cassandra Cabrera and her husband, Daniel, of Williston. He is survived by many grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; three great-great-grandchildren; his sister Grace Brooks of Old Lyme, Connecticut; by his half-sister Beulah Paddleford; and by many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his son Calvin Edward Bennett III.

Mr. Bennett worked at many jobs, including farming in Massachusetts and Connecticut, and also as a mechanic in Cadillac and Volkswagen garages. He was a factory worker, a carpenter building houses, and a construction worker.

He moved back to Vermont in 1970, and worked for the town of Brownington. He later started his own log trucking business. He loved dancing, and also traveling with his wife in their fifth-wheeler camper, visiting many states and attending bluegrass music festivals where they met some very close friends and enjoyed good times together.

A celebration of his life will be held at the Irasburg Town Hall on September 11, 2016, from 1 to 4 p.m.

Online condolences can be made at curtis-britch.com.

Gerard Fontaine

Gerard Fontaine, 75, of Newport Center, died on August 31, 2016.

He was born on April 11, 1941, in Weedon, Quebec. He was the son of the late Albini and Jenne (Gautier) Fontaine.

Mr. Fontaine worked for Ethan Allen, outside in the yard, for 28 years. He married Helen LeMadeleine on July 3, 1965.

He enjoyed riding in his golf cart, fishing off his pontoon boat, and spending time with his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

He is survived by his wife, Helen Fontaine, of Newport Center; his daughter Kristine Fontaine of Rouses Point, New York; and his son Gerard Fontaine and his wife, Patricia, of Newport Center. He is also survived by his grandchildren: Joshua Pion and his fianceé, Rebecca Poquette, Nicole Pion and her fiancé, Derrick Grundmann, Melissa Savage and her husband, Vaughan, of South Africa, Stephany Delaney and her husband, Stuart, of New York State, Jeremy Fontaine and his friend, Abbie Santaw, of Newport Center; and by four great-grandchildren: Abigail, Peyton, Oliver and Graysen. He is also survived by his brothers: Real, Marcel, and Ronald Fontaine; and his sisters Noella, Pierette, Aline, and Diane.

He was predeceased by his siblings: Lionel, Alain, Leonard, and Nicole.

A Mass was celebrated on September 3, at St. Paul’s Catholic Church in Barton, with the Reverend Timothy Naples officiating.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Vermont Visiting Nurse Association and Hospice, 46 Lakemont Road, Newport, Vermont 05855.

Online condolences may be made at www.curtis-britch.com.

Ruth E. Stone

Ruth E. Stone died on August 29, 2016, in Newport, at the age of 86.

She was born June 15, 1930, to the late David and Phoebe (Simino) Mason. On August 9, 1948, she married Paul Stone Sr., who predeceased her on October 22, 2010, after 62 years of marriage.

She leaves behind her daughter Elizabeth “Skip” Wright and her companion, Merrill Crawford, of Troy; also her son Paul Jr., and his wife, Gaetane, of Newport Center. She is also survived by eight grandchildren: Lorianne and her spouse, Paul Pion, Lucy and her spouse, Steve Dobler, Paula and her spouse, David Lamadeleine, Alvin, Amy and her spouse, Keith Deavitt, Buffy, Heidi and her spouse, Scott Rappold, and Betsy and her spouse, Mike Purvis. She also leaves behind several great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren.

Over the years she did many crafts, loved cooking and doing things for her children. Her best enjoyment was feeding and baking for everyone in the family and friends. Mrs. Stone was famous with her family for her special pancakes, and most of all she enjoyed grocery shopping.

Services were held on Saturday, September 3, at the Curtis-Britch-Converse-Rushford Funeral Home in Newport, with Pastor Paul Essaff officiating, followed by interment at the Newport Center Cemetery.

Should friends desire, contributions in her memory may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, Tennessee 38105.

Online condolence can be made at curtis-britch.com.

Obituaries August 31, 2016

Posted on August 29, 2016 by editor

Sylvie Beauregard

Sylvie Beauregard, 59, of Valcourt, Quebec, died suddenly on August 18, 2016, in Valcourt.

She was born to Roland and Gertrude Beauregard on March 29, 1957, in Bonsecours, Quebec. She worked for Bombardier in Valcourt for 30 years.

She is survived by her siblings: Ginette Curtis and her husband, Keith, Lise Carrier and her husband, Roland, France Smith and her partner, Donald Piette, Joanne and her partner, Fitzroy Ferguson, Yves, and Carole and her partner, Jim Duquette.

She was predeceased by her parents; her brother Jean-Luc; and nephew Shawn Smith. She also leaves many nephews, nieces, great-nephews and great-nieces.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in her memory to the Quebec Foundation of Epilepsy, 1650 Boulevard de Maisonneauve West, Suite 204, Montreal, Quebec, Canada H3A 2P3.

Paula Cynthia (Whiteway) Donaghy

Paula Cynthia Donaghy died on August 20, 2016, in Barton.

Ms. Donaghy was born on January 19, 1953, in Everett, Massachusetts. She spent her magical childhood in Hollis, New Hampshire. She moved to Vermont in her teen years, graduating from Marshfield/Plainfield High School. She attended Woodbury College where she received a paralegal degree. Her adult life was spent in Barton with her crew of fuzzy friends, including “Elliot,” “Q,” “Britcha,” and “Ziff.” A naturalist, the nearby forest, lake, and wildlife were her friends. Ms. Donaghy was also an excellent poet, writer, and naturalist photographer. She was a warm, generous, very courageous, and fun-loving person.

She is survived by: her parents Ruth and Curtis Whiteway Sr. of Craftsbury; son Kristian Donaghy of South Carolina; granddaughter Kaitlyn Donaghy; daughter Jeanne (Donaghy) Ball of Washington; her sisters Doreen Chambers and Kerry Edmunds; her brother Curtis Whiteway Jr.; and her niece Brooke Lorentzen.

At her request there will be no services. She has donated her body to the University of Vermont, College of Medicine. May her atoms take flight on the wings of a bird.

If desired, a donation can be made to the New England Scleroderma Foundation at the Scleroderma Foundation, 300 Rosewood Drive, Suite 105, Danvers, Massachusetts 01923, or The Vermont Respite House, 3113 Roosevelt Highway, Colchester, Vermont 05446.

Elaine Thelma (Earle) Frazier

Elaine Thelma (Earle) Frazier, 91, of Derby, died peacefully on August 27, 2016.

She was born on October 11, 1924 in Lynn, Massachusetts, to Harold and Carrie (Smith) Earle. On September 30, 1943 she married Hugh F. Frazier who predeceased her on May 15, 2010.

She is survived by two daughters: Esther Searles and her husband, Glenn, of Barton, and Darlene Whipple and her husband, Bruce, of Derby; by her two grandsons: Scott Whipple and his wife, April, of Indian Trial, North Carolina, and Jason Whipple of San Francisco, California; and by her two great-granddaughters, Alice and Ruby of North Carolina. She is also survived by many nieces and nephews; and by special friend and neighbor Babe Lavoie; and by Irene Farrar, her Sunday morning church companion. She was predeceased by her daughter Virginia on July 31, 1982.

The family moved to Newport from Morrisville in 1961. Until the move Mrs. Frazier was a stay at home mom and wife. She went to work at B.F. Moore for a short time as a seamstress, and then went to American Maple, working there until her retirement in 1985.

She enjoyed knitting and crocheting. Every year she provided North Country Hospital with a handmade baby afghan for the New Year’s baby, as well as baby hats for the nursery. She also provided many mitten trees with her handmade mittens and hats.

Friends may call on Friday, September 2, from 10 to 11 a.m. at the Curtis-Britch-Converse-Rushford Funeral Home, 4670 Darling Hill Road, Newport, followed by a graveside service at the Pine Grove Cemetery with the Reverend Fred Barker officiating.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Derby Line Ambulance Service, 67 Beech Street, Derby, Vermont 05829. Online condolences can be made at curtis-britch.com.

David J. Keefe

David J. Keefe, 93, of Newport, died on August 26, 2016, at the Maple Lane Nursing Home in Barton, after a long illness.

He was born on March 30, 1923, in Newport, to the late Maurice and Flora (Blake) Keefe.

Mr. Keefe went on to serve in the United States Marine Corps during World War II.

He then attended Green Mountain College where he earned a bachelor’s degree.

He married Lucille (Fournier) Keefe on September 14, 1948. Mrs. Keefe predeceased him in 1995.

Mr. Keefe worked at Citizens Utilities his whole life and climbed up the corporate ladder where he became an executive for many years, retiring at the age of 72.

He was a lifetime member of the Newport American Legion Post #21, and was also the secretary for the Knights of Columbus for many years.

He loved bowling, fishing, playing poker, and was an avid Red Sox fan.

He is survived by his four children: Michael Keefe and his wife, Angie, of Newport, Carol Levesque and her companion, Larry Rutherford, of Phoenix, Arizona, David Patrick Keefe and family of Aurora, Colorado, and Janice Keefe and her fiancée, Keith Young, of Claremont, New Hampshire. He is also survived by one brother, Maurice Keefe, of Barre; by seven grandchildren; and one great-grandchild.

He was predeceased by his daughter Barbara Ann in 1983.

A Mass was celebrated on Tuesday, August 30, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Newport, followed by interment at St. Mary’s Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Mr. Keefe’s name to a charity of one’s own choosing.

Online condolences may be made at www.curtis-britch.com.

Jessica L. Lewis

Jessica L. Lewis, 38, died in Holland on August 21, 2016.

She was born on February 21, 1978, in Newport to Geoffrey Price and Lorraine (Tice) Griffin. She married Jordan Lewis.

Besides her husband, she is survived by her children: Jakob and Rhilee Lewis, both of Holland; by her mother, Lorraine Griffin, and her stepfather, Randy Griffin, of Derby; by her father, Geoffrey Price, and his wife, Mary, of Derby; by her brother Kyle Griffin of Derby; by her sister Beth Price and her daughter Bree Jewer of Craftsbury; by her grandmother Anna Tice of Derby Line; by her mother-in-law Karen Flynn, father-in-law Richard Lewis, and brother-in-law Ryan Lewis, all of Holland; and by several aunts, uncles, nieces, and nephews.

Her children were her life.

She was predeceased by her grandparents: Maurice Tice Sr. and John and Betty Price; and by her uncle Maurice Tice Jr.

A graveside service was held on Monday, August 29, at the Mead Hill Cemetery in Holland, with the Reverend Mike DeSena officiating.

Should friends desire, contributions in her memory may be made to Lorraine Griffin for Jakob and Rhilee, 152 Gore Road North, Derby, Vermont 05829.

Online condolences can be made at curtis-britch.com.

Larry Dean Rash

Larry Dean Rash, a loving husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, cousin, and friend, 58, of Westmore, lost his battle with cancer and died peacefully at home on August 20, 2016, with his wife, Debra, by his side.

He was born February 23, 1958, to Morris and Janice (Eastman) Rash, in Springfield.

In 1987, he met his soul mate, wife, and best friend, Debra A. Reny. They were united in marriage on August 11, 1990, with their children, family, and friends by their side in Westmore.

He is survived by his three children: Crystall J. LaBounty, of Bolton, Jennifer J. Rash, of Burlington, and Joseph E. Shaw III, of Watervliet, New York. He is also survived by four grandchildren: Alex Crown, Cody Crown, Alyssa Crown, and McKensie Patric; by his five siblings: Kathy Dyke of Maine, Deborah March, Valerie Perkins and her husband, Ronald, of Vermont, Terry Goss and her husband, George, of New York, and Andrew Rash and his wife Lara, of Vermont.

He was known to many for his hard work, gentle soul, and beautiful singing voice.

He enjoyed spending time with his family, singing karaoke in the backyard, playing Cornhole, horseshoes, and fishing (both summer and winter), on beautiful Willoughby Lake where he grew up.

A private ceremony will be held for the family to spread his ashes.

A celebration of life will be held October 1, 2016, from 1-5 p.m. at his home in Westmore on West Side Lane. Please bring a dish to share, listen to his favorite songs, and share memories of this amazing man.

Marguerite Rosenthal

Marguerite Rosenthal, until recently a part-time resident of South Albany, died on August 25, 2016, in Maryland, after a four-month battle with cancer. She was 75.

During her stays in the Northeast Kingdom, Ms. Rosenthal was a regular presence at concerts (classical, folk, whatever), plays, and other community events. If it was a potluck, she could be counted on to bring something homemade, interesting, and delicious. She was often one of those who stayed to clean up. She was a contributor.

She was also eternally and enthusiastically grateful for the kindnesses her neighbors showed her ever since she bought her little summer house on Centebar Road some 20 years ago. Though she traveled the world and devoted herself to righting its wrongs, she was perhaps happiest enjoying the simple pleasures — gardening, hiking, and kayaking here.

Ms. Rosenthal was born in the Bronx, and grew up in New York City and in central New Jersey. She attended Oberlin College in Ohio and graduated from Queens College. She earned her doctorate in social work and social welfare from Rutgers University and taught at Rutgers, Adelphi University, and the University of Pennsylvania. From 1966 until she retired, she was a professor of Social Work at Salem State University in Massachusetts. She lived in Boston.

During her years in Boston she worked on and off campus for peace and against for-profit prisons, for equal rights and against torture. She wrote scores of book reviews and scholarly articles and was co-editor of Diminishing Welfare: A Cross-National Study of Social Provisions, published in 2002. She traveled extensively for both business and pleasure to Germany, El Salvador, India, Sweden, Israel and the West Bank, Cuba, Hungary, South Africa, Southeast Asia, and Czechoslovakia. She was always on the go — if not on the globe, then in her thoughts and her aspirations.

Ms. Rosenthal is survived by her son, Benjamin Martin Rosenthal, his wife, Nancy and their children, Leah and Ezra, of Takoma Park, Maryland; by her brother David; her sisters-in-law; a niece and a nephew; and a collection of cousins, who will continue to cherish her memory.

Annette R.A. St. Onge

Annette R.A. St. Onge, 80, of Derby, died peacefully on August 21, 2016, in Newport.

She was born on November 2, 1935, in Thetford Mine, Quebec, to Philemon and Yvette (Rodrique) Paquet. On July 12, 1958, she married Marcel St. Onge, who survives her.

Mrs. St. Onge was a former member of the Newport Country Club, and the Rocky Ridge Country Club in Hinesburg. She was an avid sports person playing squash, tennis, and racquetball, and she was very competitive.

She is survived by her husband, Marcel St. Onge, of Derby; by her children: Donald St. Onge of Shelburne, Michel St. Onge and his wife, Beverly, of Hinesburg, and Richard St. Onge and his wife, Ann, of Underhill. She is also survived by her grandchildren: Joshua St. Onge and his wife, Ali, Kimberly Cherrier and her husband, Eddie, April Andreasen and her husband, Nick, Dakota Siple and her companion, Chip Tinker, Jeana St. Onge and her companion, Eric Kingsbury, and Eliza St. Onge; by seven great-grandchildren; and by several nieces and nephews.

She was predeceased by two brothers and one sister.

Services will be private. Should friends desire, contributions in her memory may be made to the Vermont Lung Association, 372 Hurricane Lane, Suite 101, Williston, Vermont 05495, or to the Arthritis Foundation National Office, 1355 Peachtree Street, Northeast, Suite 600, Atlanta, Georgia 30309.

Online condolences can be made at curtis-britch.com.

Stanley M. Swett

Stanley M. Swett, 75, of Newport, died peacefully on August 25, 2016, at North Country Hospital in Newport, comforted by his wife, her children, and his granddaughters.

He was born July 31, 1941, in Newport, son of Harold and Honora (Morse) Swett. He married Cynthia (Perron) Rockwell on December 2, 1986, where they resided in his family home in Newport. Mr. Swett worked at Union Butterfields/Tivoly, Inc. in Derby Line as a machinist. He was a member of the American Legion and VFW. He served in the army in Korea as second engineer battalion (combat) 633rd Engineer Company (LE) APO United States Forces 96358.

Mr. Swett’s joy was in his grandchildren — taking them fishing, camping at Maidstone Park, or swimming at Charlie’s Pond. He loved tenting at the pond too, even when it snowed. They all attest to the fact that he was the greatest swimmer they have ever known. He could dive deeper than any, and hold his breath like no other. He took pride in helping his family with their lawns, using his mower and a little green wagon attached behind pulling the built-in cooler and a rake. His wife has fond memories of him mowing her mother’s lawn every week, then visiting on the front porch with her mother. Mr. Swett loved his children, animals, and he loved to cook. He always baked the ham for the holidays. He was the best at making a boiled dinner, and his Thanksgiving meat and stuffing were awesome. Even when he became too sick to attend the holiday meals, he still cooked the meat and sent it along. He had fun making bets on the NASCAR races with his family.

Mr. Swett is survived by his wife, Cynthia; his daughters Kimberly Swett and Colleen Nutting; and grandson Brandon. He is also survived by stepchildren Charlie Rockwell and his wife, Jamie, and their daughters Marina and Angela; grandchildren Ashley and Cameron, and Angela’s husband, Gary Remillard, and his children, Rachel and Brad; by his sister Jean Percy and her husband, Lester, of Derby. She states that, “Stan was always there for her and she for him.” She remembers he was a good cook and he and his mother were very close.

When Mr. Swett’s father died, he lived with his mother taking good care of her. Ms. Percy said, “Stan was a miracle child.” When he was 18, he was in a serious car accident and thrown a hundred feet from the car. Mr. Swett is also survived by several nieces and nephews, and leaves a special nephew, Dennis Percy, and his wife, Pam. He is survived by his in-laws: Becky Simino, Royce and Lillian Conley, Erward and Claire Perron, Larry and Gloria Conley, Edward and Donna Perron, Larry and Theresa Janowski, Donald and Noella Cotnoir, Joslyn Perron and Joe Ouellette, Mark Perron, Lenwood and Tami Perron, Georgette Rockwell, Regina Cole, and their families.

He was predeceased by his parents; by his brothers: Harold Swett, Dean Swett, Melvin Swett, Stanley Swett; and sisters Virginia Wallace and Mary Swett.

A gathering will take place at the convenience of the family.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Cynthia Swett, 588 Bluff Road, Newport, Vermont 05855.

Online condolences may be made at www.curtis-britch.com.

Max Elwin Underwood

Max Elwin Underwood, 90, died peacefully on Saturday, August 20, 2016.

He was born on March 2, 1926, in Barton and spent his childhood growing up in Barton.

He served in the Navy for four years, including time on the USS Maury in the South Pacific. Afterward, he attended Worcester Polytechnic Institute on the GI bill, graduating with a degree in mechanical engineering.

He went to work for the American Locomotive Company (ALCO) in Dunkirk, New York, and there he met his future wife and married her six months later. After having three children, Mr. Underwood and his family moved to England for four years so that he could train other engineers. On his return to the United States, he settled in Bedford, Massachusetts, where he remained for the rest of his life, working until retirement for Badger Company/Raytheon in Cambridge.

Mr. Underwood spent a lot of his time gardening and taking care of his home. Once a year, he spent a week at the camp that he shared with his brother, back home in Vermont’s Northeast Kingdom. He loved brook, bog, and lake fishing there, and working around the camp. He continued this into his eighties. His two sons took him up to the camp one last time, helping him do the things that he enjoyed, including catching a big lake trout.

He developed Alzheimer’s disease in his later years and spent the last two years at Sunrise Senior Living in Burlington, Massachusetts.

He was predeceased by his parents, Ray Underwood and Blanche MacPherson Underwood; his brother Norman Underwood of Hudson, Massachusetts; and his sister, Arleen Bemis, also of Hudson.

He leaves behind his devoted wife, LaVerne (Baker) Underwood; his three children and their spouses: Janet and Gary Fogg of Topsham, Maine, David Underwood and his wife, Annie Saint-Pierre, of Zurich, Switzerland, and John and Kirsten Underwood of Chelmsford, Massachusetts; six grandchildren: Aaron and Linda Fogg, Laura and James Underwood, and Robin and Kenneth Underwood; and many nephews and nieces.

A service was held at the Bedford Funeral Home on Thursday, August 25, followed by burial at Shawsheen Cemetery in Bedford.

Obituaries August 24, 2016

Posted on August 22, 2016 by editor

Barbara Ann Davis

Barbara Ann Davis, 59, of North Troy, died peacefully on August 14, 2016, in Newport.

She was born on February 7, 1957, in Newport to Frances (Johnson) Jones and the late Perlie Jones.

On February 22, 1975, she married Laurence Davis who survives her.

Ms. Davis was a ruckle operator at Columbia Forest Products for 26 years. Her hobbies included shopping, crocheting, baking, boating, camping with Mr. Davis, and spending time with her family.

She is survived by her husband, Laurence Davis; by her children: Wanda Davis and her companion, Louis Glodgett, Raymond Davis and his wife, Lee Ann; by her stepson Laurence Fecteau; by her grandchildren: Ryan Davis- Glodgett, Tyler Davis, David Davis-Moulton, and Lilly Davis, Belinda Webster and her husband, Kyle, and Bethany Glodgett; by her great-grandchildren Kyle Webster Jr. and Colton Webster; by her mother, Frances Jones; by her siblings: Sandy Spurling, Louise Handy, Joyce Caples, Pauline Bergeron and her husband, Roland, Mary Jones, and Donald Jones. She is also survived by her in-laws: Joanne and Mark Guyette, Fay and Gary Willis, Rita Johnson, Rene Guyette, Keith and Ellen Guyette, Ann and Rusty Jones, and Brent Hodgdon; and by numerous nieces and nephews.

She was predeceased by her father, Perlie Jones; and by brothers-in-law Bill Spurling, Louis Handy, and Richard Caples.

A funeral was held on August 18, followed by interment at Pleasantview Cemetery.

Should friends desire, contributions in her memory can be made to the Mary Wright Halo Foundation, 1073 Upper Quarry Road, Newport, Vermont 05855. Online condolences can be made at curtis-britch.com.

Mitchell M. Durocher

Mitchell M. Durocher, 74, of Barton, died on August 14, 2016, in Newport.

He was born on April 1, 1942, in Newport, to Frank and Desmah (Mason) Durocher. On April 8, 1990, he married Donna Marcotte, who survives him.

He had been a car salesman and farm foreman. He was also a self-employed caregiver. He enjoyed wildlife, working on landscaping around his house, mowing his lawn, and cooking. He was mechanically inclined and could fix almost anything. He was very brave as he fought emphysema and heart disease for many years.

Mr. Durocher was very personable and had an infectious smile.

He is survived by his wife, Donna Durocher, of Barton; by his children: Matthew Durocher of Keene, New Hampshire, Alisa Durocher of Keene, and Daniel Garceau and his wife, Kaleigh, of Ashuelot, New Hampshire; and by his grandchildren Dominque and Monet. He is also survived by his brother George Durocher of New York City; by his sister Mary Lamothe of Rutland; and by numerous nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his brother Herbert Durocher.

A memorial service was held on Monday, August 22, at the Assembly of God Church in Barton.

Should friends desire, contributions in his memory may be made to the St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, Tennessee 38105.

Online condolences can be made at curtis-britch.com.

Bernard L. Moeykens

Bernard L Moeykens, 85, a Vermont horseman, died peacefully at the UVM Medical Center surrounded by his family on August 9, 2016.

He was born on his mother’s birthday, May 24, 1931, in Derby, son of Lawrence B. and Flossie (Martin) Moeykens. He spent his early years working on the family farm where he developed his intense love of horses. Over the years he cultivated his inherent, natural ability with them. Mr. Moeykens was never without a horse his entire life and trained and exhibited many different breeds, especially Morgans and Belgians. He generously imparted his knowledge and passion for horses to anyone who showed an interest, and mentored many people of all ages.

He had many memorable experiences in his life but some of the highlights were driving his six-horse hitch in many shows throughout New England, and participating in various public occasions including driving the Middlebury Fire Department’s antique horse drawn pumper, teaching a class about draft horses at the University of Massachusetts, training for multiple Morgan horse farms prior to starting his own, Tari-Wey Stables, and being featured in many articles and magazines, especially Vermont Life’s fiftieth anniversary summer edition.

But above all, Mr. Moeykens loved his family and his extended family. Because of his quick wit and great smile he had many friends wherever he went.

Mr. Moeykens was predeceased by his parents, his sister Lillian Corrow, and his brother Merle “Red” Moeykens.

He is survived by his wife, Jennifer; and daughters Loray Cote, and her husband, John, Robin Loveless, and her husband, Ron, Lynn Rogers, and her husband, Kimball, and Elizabeth Thacker and her husband, Corey; by his grandchildren Ryan Cote, Jonathan Cote, Amanda Roberts, April Allen, Christopher Roberts, and Joshua Thacker; and two great-grandsons Dawson and Jordan Cote. He is also survived by his sisters Loraine Germain, Berna Rexford and her husband, Douglas, and Rosalie Spaulding and her husband, John; along with many nieces and nephews.

A memorial service and celebration of Mr. Moeyken’s life will be held at St. Stephen’s Church in Middlebury on Saturday, September 10, at 11 a.m. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Addison County Home Health and Hospice, P.O. Box 754, Route 7, Middlebury, Vermont 05753.

Everette R. Richardson

Everette R. Richardson, 80, of Barton, died on August 15, 2016, at his home in Barton.

He was born on February 24, 1936, in Stannard, to Reuben George Richardson and Elva May (Gochie) Richardson. He graduated from the St. Johnsbury Trade School, class of 1954. On June 11, 1954, he married Shirley Morse, who survives him.

Mr. Richardson was a sergeant in the Army during the Korean War era. He was a master electrician and owned and operated Richardson Electric until his retirement in 1997. He formerly worked at Sears in St. Johnsbury and Newport, and at Roger R. Gosselin, Inc.

He was a very dedicated husband, father and grandfather. He was a member of Boy Scout Troop #62 in Barton and was a scoutmaster for many years. He was a lifetime member of the American Legion Post #23 of Orleans.

He is survived by his wife, Shirley Richardson, of Barton; by his children: Michael Richardson and his wife, Denise, of Lebanon, New Hampshire, Lisa McCormick and her husband, David, of Fairfax, and Shelby Richardson and his wife, Judy, of Acworth, Georgia. He is also survived by his grandchildren: Vickie-Marie Osborne and her husband, Ian, Christopher Richardson, Asa Richardson, Shelise Venables and her husband, Stephen, Cody McCormick, and Sydney, Ethan, and London Richardson; by seven great-grandchildren; by brothers-in-law and sisters-in law; many nieces and nephews; and by his faithful companion, Rascal.

He was predeceased by his daughter Vickie and by his sister Esther Thomas and her husband, Louis.

A graveside service was held on Saturday, August 20, at St. Theresa’s Cemetery in Orleans with the Reverend Timothy Naples officiating and with full military honors.

Should friends desire, contributions in his memory may be made to St. Jude’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, Tennessee 38105.

Online condolences can be made at curtis-britch.com.

Jean Pierre Roberge

Jean Pierre Roberge, 61, of Newport Center, died on the morning of August 19, 2016, at his home.

He was born on March 16, 1955, in Bonsecours, Quebec. He was the son of Felix and Monique (Tessier) Roberge.

On July 12, 1980, he married Susan (Parrott) Roberge, who survives him. He enjoyed farming, raising beef cattle, playing darts, and spending time with his family.

He is survived by his wife, Susan Roberge, of Newport Center; his three daughters: Melanie Deslandes and her husband, Mike, of Newport Center, Sarah Bathalon and her husband, Dana, of Coventry, and Amanda Roberge of Newport Center. He is also survived by seven grandchildren: Dakota, Adam, Kiarah, Makyla, Emma, Owen, and Savannah; and by his siblings: Regean Roberge of Newport Center, Connie Verdon and her husband, Claude, of Newport Center, Gigi Lemay and her husband, John, of Derby, Paulette Poutre and her husband, Donald, of Irasburg, Geatane Stone and her husband, Paul, of Newport Center, Francine Guillette and her husband, Marcel, of Derby, Jean-Claude Roberge and his wife, Donna, of North Troy, Marianne Sanville and her husband, Brian, of Irasburg, Robert Roberge and his wife, Shelly, of Derby; and by many nieces and nephews.

Visiting hours will be held on from 1 to 3 p.m. on Wednesday, August 24, at the Curtis-Britch-Converse-Rushford Funeral Home, 4670 Darling Hill Road in Newport, followed by interment in the Newport Center Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made in Mr. Roberge’s name to the Pope Memorial Frontier Animal Society, 502 Strawberry Acres Road, Newport, Vermont 05855.

Online condolences may be made at www.curtis-britch.com.

Obituaries August 17, 2016

Posted on August 15, 2016 by editor

Tonia Lee Fecteau

Tonia Lee Fecteau, 43, of Derby Line, died peacefully on August 10, 2016, in Lebanon, New Hampshire, surrounded by her loving family who gave her the strength to go to a better place with no suffering.

She was born on October 28, 1972, in Newport, the daughter of Albert and Ruby (Tice) Fecteau.

She attended Newport Center Elementary School and graduated from North Country Union High School in 1990.

Ms. Fecteau loved watching wildlife and living where she grew up. Holidays were her favorite times because both her birds had returned to the nest. She would give anyone everything she could, even if she had nothing for herself. She loved Halloween and the paranormal, and she would sell her soul for whoopie pies and Brussels sprouts. She had one cat, Mystic, who watched over her and did her best to keep her safe.

Ms. Fecteau fell head over heels for “The Big Bang Theory,” giggling for hours at Sheldon. She could never stay angry and always had a smile on her face. She fought longer than most would have thought with the challenges she faced.

Ms. Fecteau touched everyone’s life in positive ways, and was a shoulder for anybody in need as she was the fountain of wisdom. She was loved by everyone she came in contact with. She was very proud of all her family and friends and enjoyed spending time with them.

She is survived by her two sons: Anthony Poquette and his companion, April Rheaume, of Rifle, Colorado, and Tyler Poquette of Deering, New Hampshire; and by her granddaughter Maya of Rifle. She is also survived by her siblings: Dean Fecteau and his wife, Gail, of Coventry, Carol Poutre and her husband, Denis, of Irasburg, Bonnie Bowen of Stowe, Massachusetts, Randy Fecteau and his wife, Barbara, of Holland, Donna Quinn and her husband, John, of Derby, and Larry Fecteau and his companion, Tamara McKenzie, of Glover; and by numerous nieces and nephews.

She was predeceased by her father and mother, Albert and Ruby Fecteau, and by her brother Paul Fecteau.

Services will be held at the convenience of the family.

Online condolences can be made at curtis-britch.com.

Andreo A. Pothier

Andreo A. Pothier, 60, of Newport Center, died peacefully on August 9, 2016, in Newport, surrounded by his loving family.

He was born on April 21, 1956, in Warwick, Quebec, Canada, to Andre and Marielle (Martel) Pothier.

On August 13, 1977, he married the former Denise Pion, who survives him.

Mr. Pothier was owner and operator of the Pothier family farm in Newport Center. He loved working his farm and tending to the animals. He was a very hard worker and was always willing to give a helping hand to anyone. He enjoyed camping as well as attending family gatherings and events. He loved watching his son Adam play sports at North Country Union High School, showing dairy cattle at various events, and watching New England Patriots football. He was happy that all the kids showed interest in 4-H and dairy. He loved his family and was very proud of all his children and grandchildren.

He is survived by his wife, Denise, of Newport Center; by his children: Andrea Kinney and her husband, John, of Newport Center, Joseph Pothier of Newport Center, Robert Pothier and his companion, Sierra Phillips, of East Charleston, and Adam Pothier and his companion, Mariah Morley, of Newport Center; by his grandchildren: Victoria, Makayla, and Jorja Kinney, Emma Pothier, Isiak, Hailey, Colby, Bryce, and Levi Pothier, and Aleeah Pothier. He is also survived by his siblings: Serge Pothier and his companion, Carmel Soulieur, of Irasburg, Mario Pothier and his companion, Rebecca Germain, of Columbia, New Hampshire, Susy Pion and her husband, Robert, of Lowell; by his mother-in-law Gilberte Pion of Lowell; by his brothers-in-law Claude Cotnoir of Oxford, Maine, Gerard Pion and his wife, Susan, Ronald Pion and his wife, Charlene, Rejean Pion and his fiancée, Lori Lewia; by all of Lowell; and by numerous nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his parents; by his sister JoAnne; and by his father-in-law Raymond Pion.

Funeral services were held on August 12 in Newport. A Mass was celebrated and interment followed at the St. Ignatius Church in Lowell.

Should friends desire, contributions in his memory may be made to the 4-H Dairy Program for Orleans County, checks payable to University of Vermont, 316 Main Street, Suite 101, Newport, Vermont 05855. Write “for Orleans County 4-H Dairy Program” in the check memo block.

Online condolences can be made at www.curtis-britch.com.

Ludger G. Toussaint

Ludger G. Toussaint, 92, formerly of Bellows Falls, died early Monday, August 8, 2016.

Mr. Toussaint was born in Gageville on September 23, 1923, the son of Gideon and Jennie (Hosman) Toussaint. He was a 1942 graduate of Bellows Falls High School, worked as a painter with his family for 20 years, and also worked for Tom Turner and White Mountain Paper in Bellows Falls. On December 14, 1962, he married Carolyn Nies, who predeceased him in 2014.

Mr. Toussaint was a World War II veteran and medal recipient, having served in the Navy.

He loved playing with his grandchildren. He was strong in his faith as one of Jehovah’s Witnesses, and looked forward to the day he would be reunited with his wife, Carolyn.

He is survived by his stepdaughter, Leslie Burt of Newport; his brother Gordon Toussaint of Bellows Falls; his sisters Helen, Marie, and Lucille; his grandchildren Buckley Duby and his partner, Jen Bowen, Krystal Duby Avona, and R.J. Santaw and his wife, Danielle; and by his great-grandchildren Colton Avona, Hunter Morse, and Addilyn Santaw.

Services will be held at the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses in Rockingham at 10 a.m. on Saturday, August 20.

Silverine Tenney Wright

Silverine Tenney Wright, 95, of Newport Center died on July 20, 2016, in Newport.

She was born on July 23, 1920, in Newport Center to William and Belia (Corrow) Sanville.

On March 15, 1941, she married Milton Wright, who predeceased her.

She was a stitcher at Newport Plastics and she worked for B.F. Moore in Newport, where she made wedding gowns and dresses. She was very talented and crafty with her hobbies, which included knitting, crocheting, and sewing. She made family afghans, quilts, and dolls. She was a member of United Methodist Church in Newport Center and the snowmobile club for many years. She had a contagious smile; she loved people, and always welcomed them into her home. She was a great cook, she loved life, and she always put her family first.

She is survived by her daughter Carolyn Collins and her husband, Tom, of Newport Center; by her sister-in-law Beverly Wright; by her grandchildren: Shaye and Shari Collins; and by her great-granddaughter Tia Drake. She is also survived by many nieces and nephews.

She was predeceased by her son Dale Wright; her grandson Shawn Collins; and by her siblings: Lawrence Sanville and his wife, Pearl, Cyril Sanville, John Sanville, Ella Taylor and her husband, Earl, Delphine Spaulding, Elsie Cheney, Lillian Blake, Idelle Besaw, Dorothy Bullis Britch, Isabelle Wright, and Grace Gibney; and by her brothers-in-law: Cecil Wright and Kenneth Wright and his wife, Isabelle.

Funeral services were held on July 25 in Newport. Interment followed in the Newport Center Cemetery.

Should friends desire, contributions in her memory may be made to the Orleans and Essex Visiting Nurse Association and Hospice, 46 Lakemont Road, Newport, Vermont 05855, or the Bel-Aire Activities Fund, 35 Bel-Aire Drive, Newport, Vermont 05855.

Online condolences can be made at www.curtis-britch.com.

Obituaries August 10, 2016

Posted on August 9, 2016 by editor

Dorothy Mae Corkins

Dorothy Mae “Dot” Corkins, 87, died on Wednesday, July 27, 2016, at North Country Hospital in Newport, surrounded by loving family.

Mrs. Corkins was born on July 11, 1929, to Wallace Sr. and Viola (Buchanan) Riegel.

She attended schools in Newport before marrying the love of her life, Harold Corkins Sr. on December 6, 1947. Together they moved to Long Island in 1949 where they began to raise their eight children before returning back home to Newport in 1969 and finally settling back into the family home on Clyde Street in 1973 where they both lived out their lives.

Mrs. Corkins loved to play bingo, complete crossword puzzles, watch Yankees baseball games, Jeopardy and Wheel of Fortune, and play cards, especially Skip-bo. She loved all the family pets, especially CJ, Benny and Easy.

One of her great joys was spending time with her 20 grandchildren, 21 great-grandchildren, and two great-great grandchildren. Many of her grandchildren learned to read sitting on Nana’s lap. She was very proud of all of their accomplishments but she was especially proud of her grandson Ryan’s Eagle Scout award and all who graduated from college.

Mrs. Corkins is survived by her sons: Harold Corkins and his wife, Donna, of West Palm Beach, Florida, Ronald Corkins and his wife, Dolly, of Newport, Craig Corkins and his wife, Mary, of Derby, Randall Corkins of Westfield, Darren Corkins of Newport; by her siblings: DeeDee Morse and her husband, Richard, of Cornish, New Hampshire, Shirley Doncaster of Coventry, Bill Riegel and his wife, Jackie, of Glover, and Fort Myers, Florida, Mary Blais of Derby, and Nancy Cole of North Troy; and by her grandchildren, great grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews.

She was predeceased by her husband, Harold R. Corkins Sr.; her sons: Alan and Van Corkin; her daughter, Valerie Gibson; her sisters: Josephine “Jo” Morrow and Beverley “Betty” Blais; her brother Wallace Riegel Jr.; and by her grandson Eli Goss.

A memorial service to celebrate her life and love will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, August 13, at St. Mark’s Episcopal Church, 44 Second Street, Newport, Vermont, with the Reverend Jane Butterfield officiating.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Mark’s Episcopal Church, P.O. Box 125, Newport, Vermont 05855 or to Pope Memorial Frontier Animal Shelter, 4473 Barton Orleans Road, Orleans, Vermont 05860.

The family also invites those who knew her to share memories and condolences by visiting www.awrfh.com.

Priscilla Ann (LaBounty) Jensen

Priscilla Ann (LaBounty) Jensen, 73, of Barton, died on Sunday, July 31, 2016, in Newport.

She was born in Barton on April 25, 1943, to Bruno and Annette (Sheltra) LaBounty, who both predeceased her.

She attended St. Paul’s School and graduated from Barton Academy in 1961. On July 21, 1962, she married Richard “Nicky” Jensen at St. Paul’s Church in Barton.

Besides her husband, Richard, she is survived by two children: Richard “Ricky” Jensen Jr., his wife, Marianne, and their two children, Matthew and Katie, and one granddaughter, Zoey, all of Highgate; and Cathy and her husband, Michael “Mike,” Vallieres, and their children Rick and Jenna Trexel, and their daughters, Avery and Emryn, all of Fort Mill, South Carolina, and Justin Vallieres and his children, Xavier and Amaya Vallieres, of Lawrenceville, Georgia.

She leaves behind six brothers and sisters: Bruno “Sonny” LaBounty of Orleans, Theresa Norris of Barton, and her companion, Albert Young, of Lyndonville, Rachel Frengs and her husband, Frederick, of Sheffield, Massachusetts, Debra Farrar and her husband, Jim, of Barton, Dennis LaBounty and his wife, Diane, of Lyndonville, and Paul LaBounty and his wife, Kimberly, of Barton; and many nieces and nephews, as well as all her friends in Bean’s Mobile Park in Barton.

She was predeceased by her sister-in-law Leona (Alger) LaBounty; by brother-in-law Earl Norris; and by sister Patricia and brother Robert, who both died in infancy.

Those who wish, may make contributions in her memory to the Barton Ambulance Service, 54 Municipal Lane, Barton, Vermont 05822.

Online condolences can be made at www.curtis-britch.com.

Karen (Kilborn) McBride

Karen (Kilborn) McBride of Colchester, died unexpectedly on Tuesday, August 2, 2016.

She was born May 19, 1963, in Newport to Lawrence and Patricia Kilborn.

Ms. Kilborn went to North Country Union High School where she excelled in academics as well as track and field, for which she still holds a record in the shot put. She applied her bright intellect and passionate nature by going to the University of Rhode Island on a sports scholarship. She graduated with a pharmacy degree in 1986. She then did her residency at Fletcher Allen Hospital in clinical pharmacy before moving to North Carolina to start her pharmacy career at Moses Cone Hospital in Greensboro.

After several years, she returned to Vermont to start a family with her husband. They built a home in Colchester and she began her distinguished career at the University of Vermont Medical Center. Over the years, Ms. Kilborn advanced to the position of director of pharmacy services where she oversaw more than 300 of her pharmacy colleagues. She took great pride in pushing the department forward, always focused on patient care. Like many great leaders with vision, she surrounded herself with highly capable people, helping them achieve their full potential. Among her many accomplishments, she was instrumental in adding cutting-edge medication safety technologies as well as developing and implementing the hospital’s mail order and specialty pharmacy services.

Ms. Kilborn will be sadly missed by those who knew her well. She was not one to put on a mask and be a different person behind the scenes — she was always herself and was always honest. She was truly a winner in every sense of the word; a true treasure to those privileged enough to know her.

She is survived by her devoted husband of 27 years, David McBride; her daughter, Laura, of Burlington; her son, Matthew, of Colchester; by her father, Lawrence Kilborn, of Newport; her brother Michael Kilborn and his wife, Suzanne, of St. Petersburg, Florida; and by her sister Lisa Kilborn Rollins and her husband, Peter, of Burlington. She also leaves behind a large, loving family of in-laws, aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins; as well as many friends and co-workers.

She was predeceased by her mother, Patricia Rushlow Kilborn.

There will be a celebration of Ms. Kilborn’s life at 5 p.m. on Monday, August 15, at Ira Allen Chapel on the University of Vermont campus.

Arrangements are in the care of the Ready Funeral and Cremation Service, Burlington.

Online condolences at www.readyfuneral.com.

Gail Valerie (Stevens) McMullen

Gail Valerie (Stevens) McMullen, 63, of Newport, died peacefully with family by her side on August 4, 2016.

She is survived by her best friend, her husband Laurie McMullen, of Newport, whom she wed in 1984.

Mrs. McMullen had an incredibly loving and sweet personality. Together she and her husband made many friends through the clubs they belonged to, namely Gold Wing Riders and Cars of Yesteryear, as well as co-workers from her 29 years at Bogner of America and 13 years at North Country Hospital. She loved to camp, travel, spend time with family and friends, and cuddle her beloved dog, Gizzy.

She is also survived by her sister Laurie Stevens of Newport; her stepchildren: Cam Green and her children: Sawyer and Saigelyn Green of Derby, Robin Scott, and her husband, Ed, and their children: Chris Martel, Ian Martel, and Isabel Scott of Richmond, and Bud McMullen, and his wife, Jocelyn, and their children: Brooke and Autumn McMullen of Morgan. She is also survived by her sister-in-law and special caregiver, Laureen Griggs, her husband, Paul, and their children; as well as several aunts, uncles, and cousins.

She was predeceased by her parents, Roland Stevens and Frances Stevens, in 2005.

There will be no calling hours. The family will hold private services at a later date.

Seth Stuart Parent

Seth Stuart Parent, born March 19, 1975, son of Marcia and Calvin Parent of Barton and Fort Myers, Florida, died suddenly on Thursday evening, August 4, 2016, while on vacation with his parents in Vermont.

Mr. Parent was a lifelong resident of Cornwall and New Windsor, New York.

He is survived by his parents; his sister Ashley Grinnell and her husband, John; and his beloved twin niece and nephew, Nash and Zeke. He is also survived by his paternal grandmother Elizabeth Parent and his beloved longtime companion, Marissa Franko, of Highland Mills, New York. He leaves many aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends.

Mr. Parent was a 1994 graduate of Cornwall Central High School and attended a year of college at New York Institute of Technology, Long Island. During his high school years he was the recipient of many awards of achievement including a Guideposts magazine winning essay entitled “When you Walk Through the Fire.” He was a Boys State representative, and also received the Boy Scout Order of the Arrow for courage and perseverance. He was employed for many years at Cornwall Hospital as a security officer where he was honored as Employee of the Month. He was a 24-year member of Storm King Engine Co. No. 2 in Cornwall-on-Hudson, New York.

Mr. Parent had a strong Christian faith that sustained him throughout his life. He loved animals, trains, his canoe, the lake, and his family. He was an avid lifelong Red Sox fan. He never forgot an anniversary or birthday. He gave giant bear hugs to those he loved.

From the moment of his birth, Mr. Parent struggled valiantly to overcome physical and emotional challenges and did so with courage and great determination. His indomitable spirit was an inspiration to all who knew and loved him. He requested his organs be used to help others live and encouraged everyone to follow suit.

A memorial celebration of his life will be held at 2 p.m. on Wednesday, August 10, at the Barton United Church with the Reverend Evelyn Coupe officiating.

Should friends desire, contributions in his memory may be made to the Storm King Engine Co. No. 2, P.O. Box 333, Cornwall-on-Hudson, New York 12520.

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

Steven J. Sargent

Steven J. Sargent, 55, of Newport, died peacefully on August 2, 2016, in Newport.

He was born on February 14, 1961, in Newport, to Norman Sr. and Eleanor (Hamelin) Sargent.

Mr. Sargent is survived by his daughter Jessica Sargent; by his sisters and brothers: Valerie Sargent, Deborah Hamelin, Kathryn Hall, Norman Sargent Jr., Richard Sargent, and Kevin Sargent; by his caregiver, Chantel Ely; and by many nieces and nephews.

He enjoyed going for rides, sitting in the sun, and playing music with old spoons. He was loved by everyone who he came in contact with.

He was predeceased by his parents, Norman and Eleanor Sargent; by his niece Jennifer; and by his brother-in-law Dean and sister-in-law Bonnie.

Online condolences can be made at www.curtis-britch.com.

Joan (McQuiston) Twiss

Following a brief illness, Joan (McQuiston) Twiss died at Copley Hospital in Morrisville on August 5, 2016, with her husband Robert “Bob” Twiss at her side.

Mrs. Twiss was born in Lynn, Massachusetts, on June 9, 1933.

Her parents, Raymond and Catherine McQuiston, lived in Newton, Massachusetts. Her mother was the former Catherine Duggan of Peabody, Massachusetts, and her father was a chemical engineer from Waltham, Massachusetts. Mrs. Twiss’ older sister Ruth Burris resided with their parents.

Mrs. Twiss spent her younger years in West Newton, Massachusetts, and attended the local elementary school there. She later enrolled in Dana Hall for her secondary education.

Her continuing desire for academic challenges led to enrollment at the University of Southern California where she completed a bachelor of arts degree. Following a few years of teaching math, she went to Seville, Spain, to teach American students in the Air Force program. She then returned to Newton, Massachusetts, taught elementary school, and earned a master’s degree in education from Boston University.

Another opportunity arose for her to teach abroad in Japan, with United States Navy students. This further expanded her professional experience and upon completion of this assignment, she returned to the United States to teach again in the Newton public school system. Concurrently, she again pursued graduate studies and completed a doctoral program at Boston College. This completed twenty happy years teaching in her hometown of Newton.

Certified in, and seeking an assignment in school administration, Mrs. Twiss was selected as the Harwich Elementary principal on Cape Cod. She performed her duties successfully and was later chosen for another administrative position in Marshfield, Massachusetts, where she worked though 1987.

In 1988, she married A. Robert Twiss. They lived in Chatham, Massachusetts until 1995. She and her husband have lived in Craftsbury Common since then.

Mrs. Twiss is survived by her husband, Bob Twiss, and his two children: Jeff Twiss and Deborah Dickovic; by her brother-in-law James Burris of Madison, Connecticut; by her cousins: Robert McQuiston of Washington, D.C. and Gail Bursk of Portland, Maine; by seven nieces and nephews: Karen and Michael Lennon of New York City, Susanne Burris of New York City, Laura and John Desmarais of Mount Kisco, New York, James and Erin Burris of New York City; by ten great-nieces and nephews: Lauren and Sean Lombardi McGann, Jack and Julia Desmarais, James and Jennie Burris, Elizabeth and Andrew Libonati, and Raymond II and Mateo Burris; and one great-great nephew Matthew.

Ms. Twiss was predeceased by her parents, Raymond and Catherine McQuiston; by her sister Ruth Burris; and her cousin Marsha Mierzwa.

A funeral Mass will be held at Our Lady of Fatima Roman Catholic Church in Craftsbury at 2 p.m. on Thursday, August 11, with the Reverend Francis Prive officiating.

Interment will follow at the Craftsbury Common Cemetery.

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

Online condolences at www.curtis-britch.com.

John VanOstrand Jr.

John VanOstrand Jr. died on March 13, 2016. He received end of life care from the University of Vermont Medical Center after battling an aggressive cancer for more than a year.

He was born on August 31, 1943.

Mr. VanOstrand was a caring, hard working, and skilled person. He loved the outdoors and his family.

He is survived, loved, and missed by his wife, Denise VanOstrand, and his stepdaughter Margaret Jordan.

Private services were held.

John H. F. Vining

John H. F. Vining, 74, of Derby, well-known retired Newport police officer, died on August 6, 2016, in Newport.

He was born on December 22, 1941, in Saint Johns, New Brunswick, to John and Mary (Tobin) Vining.

He married Ann Crawford who survives him. He was a veteran of the United States Navy.

Mr. Vining was a police officer for the city of Newport for more than 30 years. He was also employed at one time by the Orleans County Sheriff’s Department and was a former member of the Masons. He loved to travel to Maine and out west. He took great pride in taking care of his property and he enjoyed swimming in his earlier years.

He is survived by his wife, Ann Vining, of Derby; by his sons: Mike Vining and his wife, Dawn, of Georgia, and Brennan Vining of Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. He is also survived by his two grandchildren: Connor and Aislynn Vining.

Friends may call from 4 to 6 p.m. on Wednesday, August 10, at the Curtis-Britch-Converse-Rushford Funeral Home, 4670 Darling Hill Road in Newport.

Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. on Thursday, August 11.

Should friends desire, contributions in his memory may be made to the Mary Wright Halo Foundation, 1073 Upper Quarry Road, Newport, Vermont 05855 or to the Pope Memorial Frontier Animal Shelter, 502 Strawberry Acres, Newport, Vermont 05855.

Online condolences at www.curtis-britch.com.

Thomas E. Wooten

Thomas Edward Wooten of Belmont, New Hampshire (formerly of Weymouth, Massachusetts) died after a tragic accident on July 21, 2016.

Mr. Wooten was born on Nov 5, 1959.

He was the beloved husband of Allison (Flipp); loving father of David, of Edwards, Colorado, and Samantha of Tilton, New Hampshire; devoted grandpa to Grace Andrews; beloved son of Helen (Shea) Wooten and the late George Wooten; brother to James and his wife, Sharon, of Amherst, Massachusetts, Jean McDougald and her husband, James, of North Augusta, South Carolina, John, and his wife, Virginia Lawless, of Tolland, Connecticut, Anne Leonard and her husband, Robert, of Middleboro, Massachusetts, Joan Hunter and her husband, Edward Callahan, of Weymouth, Paul Wooten and his wife, Nancy McCue, of Center Harbor, New Hampshire, Donna Harrington and her husband, Richard, of Kingston, Massachusetts, and Stephen and his wife, Tracy Lomax, of Eugene, Oregon. He was the much loved son-in-law of Carl and Connie Flipp of Weymouth, and the extended Flipp family; and was a cherished uncle to many nieces and nephews.

Mr. Wooten loved the great outdoors — fishing, hunting and camping, lakes, meadows and woods — and most of all, his family and friends. He will be remembered fondly for his beautiful smile, his quick and dry wit, and his gentle spirit. He worked and played hard. Genuine and generous, the life he built with Mrs. Wooten was a masterpiece and serves as a model to many.

Mr. Wooten attended public schools in Weymouth and graduated from the Norfolk County Agricultural School. He was a dedicated employee of the Northfield Department of Public Works, and formerly of Leighton’s Catering, and Hanabury and Sons in Weymouth.

For over 25 years, Mr. Wooten had visited Lake Parker for boys weekends with his brothers and close friends. He enjoyed laughs around the camp fire, reading portions of the Chronicle out loud to the gang, walks to the West Glover cemetery, and playing pool while listening to Don Sackett at the Crystal Saloon. His presence at the camp will be sorely missed. He was a joy to be with. We will fondly remember his smiling face and wit.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his memory to the charity of one’s choice.

Obituaries August 3, 2016

Posted on August 2, 2016 by editor

Victor “Andy” Homer Andrews

Victor “Andy” Homer Andrews, 97, of Coventry, died peacefully on June 16, 2016, at the Derby Green Nursing Home, where he enjoyed his stay and made many friends.

He was born on April 25, 1919, in Roxbury, to Homer G. and Eva E. (Bell) Andrews.

He attended schools in St. Albans, and enlisted in the Army National Guard in 1941. He later entered the U.S. Navy, where he served in World War II, and the Korean War. During wartime he served on many war ships, as seaman, and third-, second-, and first-class gunners mate (GM1). Some of the vessels he was aboard were the USS Roanoke, U.S. Naval Receiving Station, Washington, D.C., USS Salem (CA-139) USS Mississippi (EAG-128), USS Boston (CAG-1) U.S. Naval Receiving Station, Boston, Massachusetts. He retired with over 20 years in the service. He was a member of St. Mary Star of the Sea Catholic Church in Newport.

He is survived by his two daughters: Priscilla Andrews of New Mexico and Rebecca Thayer of Virginia; three grandchildren: Jason Gabric, Jenny Lynn Thayer, and Elizabeth Premo; and by his special friend, Sheila MacFarlane, of Coventry.

He was predeceased by his wives: Helen LeClair, Lucille Jackson, and Doris Kendall; by his son Randall J. Andrews; by his brothers: George, Bernard and Terrance Andrews; and by his sister Lena Andrews.

He lived in Winooski for many years where he worked for Beverage Warehouse in Winooski. He and his family moved to Coventry where they made their home.

A funeral service will be held on Saturday, August 6, at 2 p.m. at the Pleasantview Cemetery in Orleans, with full military honors. The Vermont Patriot Guard Riders will escort Mr. Andrews to the cemetery.

Memorial contributions in Mr. Andrews’ name may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association of Vermont, 300 Corner Stone Drive, Suite 128, Williston, Vermont 05495.

Online condolences can be made at curtis-britch.com.

Roger L. Dumont

Roger L. Dumont, 74, died in Newport on July 26, 2016.

Mr. Dumont was born in Albany on August 14, 1941, to the late Maurice Sylvia Dumont. He grew up in North Troy and went on to graduate from North Troy High School and the Vermont Technical College.

After graduation he worked for General Electric in Burlington for a short time, then moved to Weston, Connecticut, and worked for United Technologies as an engineer for the rest of his career. After retirement, he moved to Newport. He enjoyed photography, computers, and English comedies on television.

Survivors include his brother Andre Dumont and his wife, Ann, of Altamonte Springs, Florida; nephews Paul Dumont of Sanford, Florida, Matthew Dumont and his wife, Debra, of Powder Springs, Georgia; nieces Terry Donovan and her husband, Chris, of Newport Center, Monique Souliere and her husband, Todd, of Jaffrey, New Hampshire; and sister-in-law Pat Dumont of North Troy.

He was predeceased by his brother Albert Dumont of North Troy.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Better Breathers Club, North Country Hospital, 189 Prouty Drive, Newport, Vermont 05855.

Online condolences may be made at www.curtis-britch.com.

Lorene Armstrong Graham

Lorene Armstrong Graham, 82, died peacefully at her home in Newport in the early morning hours of July 30, 2016.

Mrs. Graham was born in Troy, the fourth daughter of Guy and Dorris Percy Armstrong, on August 11, 1933. She attended the Troy school, and when the family moved to Newport in 1944, she finished graded school and Newport High School, graduating with the class of 1951.

She joined the National Bank of Newport and met Bill Graham. Starting with their first date on April 21, 1954, leading to their marriage on November 21, 1954, and followed by 62 years together, she and Mr. Graham had a wonderful life with their four children and grandchildren.

Mrs. Graham, who preferred to be called Laurie throughout her life, was active in helping people. She was a faithful volunteer for the Elks, she worked on rummage sales as a member of the women’s society of the Newport United Church, she volunteered to help with church suppers, and was a member of the American Legion Post #21 Auxiliary. She served as secretary for the Newport City school for many years and worked for a number of years as a driver for Rural Community Transport, taking people to Dartmouth Hitchcock Hospital in Lebanon, New Hampshire, to the UVM Medical Center in Burlington, and to many other locations.

Mr. and Mrs. Graham have been fixtures of the Sias Avenue, Birch Lane, and Hillside Street areas since they moved there in 1958. Over their years together, the Grahams did a lot of traveling, including to Ireland, Scotland, the Netherlands, and California, and they attended a number of American Legion national conventions.

Mrs. Graham enjoyed people in general, and was helpful to all with a pleasant personality. She was very devoted to her family and expressed gratefulness for her and Mr. Graham’s life together, and for the family.

Mrs. Graham is survived by Bill, her husband of 62 years; by her sons James Graham and his wife, Lynn, of South Glens Falls, New York, and Scott Graham of Potomic, Maryland; by her daughter Kerry Graham of Concord, New Hampshire; and by her grandchildren: Derek Graham of Fort Edward, New York, Eric Graham of St. Johnsbury, Corey Graham of Ukiah, California, Emily Graham of South Glens Falls, Nic Graham of South Glens Falls, Cassandra Graham of Washington, D.C., Jennifer Graham of Davenport, Florida, Tyler Douglas Graham of Newport, Second Lieutenant Connor Graham and his wife, Jenna, of Fort Sill, Oklahoma; and by her great-grandson Blaze Cochran of Glover. She is also survived by her brother Roger Armstrong and his wife, Isabelle, by her brother Leonard Armstrong and his wife, June, of St. Johnsbury; by her sister-in-law Joan Armstrong of Lewisburg, West Virginia; and by her brother William Armstrong of Newport News, Virginia. She is also survived by all of her beloved nieces and nephews of the Graham and Armstrong families.

Mrs. Armstrong was predeceased by her oldest son, Douglas, in 2000; by her brother Gilbert Armstrong and his wife, Hazel; and by her sisters- and brothers-in-law: Barbara Judd and her husband, Leon, and Beverly Hoadley and her husband, Clayton.

Calling hours will be at the Curtis-Britch-Converse-Rushford Funeral Home at 4670 Darling Hill Road in Newport, on Wednesday, August 3, from 6 to 8 p.m. Her funeral will be on Thursday, August 4, at 11 a.m. at the Newport United Church with the Reverend Jim Merriam presiding.

The Graham family sincerely thanks the great number of friends and family who have been so nice to Mrs. Graham in her times of need this past year, thoughtfully visiting her and bolstering her with kindness and encouragement.

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

Donald Henn

Donald C. “Coot” Henn, 76, of Lowell and Port Saint Lucie, Florida, died peacefully with his family by his side on July 20, 2016.

There will be a memorial ride in his honor on August 6. Riders should meet at the Lowell school at 11 a.m.; kickstands go up at 11:30. After, a celebration of his life will be held at the VFW in Hyde Park at noon.

For more information, please visit www.awrfh.com, where memories may also be shared.

Paul W. Leno

Paul W. Leno, 55, of Derby, died on July 24, 2016, in Derby.

He was born on May 21, 1961, in Morrisville to Helen (Farrand) and the late Paul Wood. He was later adopted by Corcell Leno.

He enjoyed fishing, making clay figures, and playing chess online. He was very artistic with clay. He was a self-taught computer repairman, and he loved all animals, especially cats.

He is survived by his son Tyler Leno of Washington, D.C.; by his mother, Helen Leno, of Orleans; by his sister Anita Hodgman and her husband, Kevin, of Orleans; and by his half-brothers Andy Wood and Shannon Wood of Indiana.

He was predeceased by his son Philip Leno in 2004; and by a half-sister, Diana.

Private services will be held at the convenience of the family. Should friends desire, contributions in his memory may be made to the Pope Memorial Frontier Animal Society, 502 Strawberry Acres, Newport, Vermont 05855.

Online condolences can be made at curtis-britch.com.

Glendora Frances (Miles) McClay

Glendora Frances (Miles) McClay, 92, died on March 16, 2016, in Palm Desert, California.

She was born on April 21, 1923. She was the daughter of Glenn and Sadie Marie (Edgerton) Miles.

She graduated from Craftsbury Academy and Becker Junior College in Worcester, Massachusetts. She married Hamilton T. McClay on April 24, 1949.

Mr. and Mrs. McClay lived in Newport after their marriage and then purchased a diner in Montpelier. They ran McClay’s Diner for several years with Mr. McClay doing the short order cooking and Mrs. McClay making the desserts. They formed many long-lasting relationships during that time.

After selling the restaurant, Mrs. McClay started working at the National Life Insurance Company, where she remained for over 25 years until her retirement.

At that point, she and Mr. McClay moved to sunny California where they made their home in Palm Desert.

Mrs. McClay became active in the homeowners association, volunteered at the Ford Elementary School in the classroom and library, and was an avid bridge player.

While she had no children, she thought of all her nieces and nephews as her kids. To most, she was known as Auntie Glen, but to Madelyn Mires she was Gramma Glen.

Ms. McClay was preceded in death by her husband, Hamilton, and by her sister Phostine Austin.

She is survived by her sister Marlene Davis, and her family: Deborah Navin and her husband, Robert, and her son, James Clarke; the late Steven Davis and his wife, Lynn, and their son, Dillon; Gregory Davis; Sheila Mires and her daughter, Madelyn.

She is also survived by her sister Phostine’s family: Glenn Austin; Gail Guillette and her husband, Louis, and their children Cara and the late Harold “Bennie” Benjamin, their son, Harold Benjamin III and his fiancée, Desiree Charron; Ted Guillette and his wife, Amy, and their children Alexandria and Jonathyn; Louis Guillette Jr. and his wife, Tracy, and their children, Kristen and Brenden Hunt, and Katelyn; Alan Guillette and his wife, Christina, and their children Derek and Regan; Jerry Guillette and his wife, MaDonna, and their daughter Arrianna; Janet Young and her daughter Michelle Hall and her husband, Travis; and James Austin and his wife, Christine Iorillo, and their children, Rose Iorillo and Tess Austin.

A service of remembrance will be held Monday, August 8, at the Albany Village Cemetery at 11 a.m.

Online condolences may be made at www.curtis-britch.com.

Susan A. Pelcher

Susan A. Pelcher, 61, of Newport, died on July 27, 2016, in Newport.

Ms. Pelcher was born on May 16, 1955, in Baltimore, Maryland, a daughter of Andrew and Elizabeth (Savage) March.

She is survived by her son Corey Pelcher of San Diego, California; by her two brothers: Andrew March and his wife, Mary Lou, of Cape Coral, Florida, and Douglas March and his wife, Carol, of Warwick, Rhode Island.

Ms. Pelcher was predeceased by her parents, Andrew and Elizabeth March.

Graveside services will be held on Friday, August 5, at 10 a.m. at Pine Grove Cemetery in Newport, with the Reverend Jim Merriam officiating.

Should friends desire, contributions in her memory may be made 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.

Terrie L. Sable

Terrie Lee Sable, 65, of Sheffield, died on July 20, 2016, at Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center.

She had been sick for one month with a tear in her aorta. She had surgery at Dartmouth-Hitchcock on July 14, and was recovering very well in the intensive care unit, but she died suddenly early in the morning of July 20.

Ms. Sable was born on November 17, 1950, in Racine, Wisconsin. She attended Horlick High School in Racine, and then two years of college at the University of Wisconsin in Oshkosh. She worked as a company representative for U.S. Tobacco and for an optical company. In 1987 she was injured in an automobile accident that left her disabled due to arthritis and pain in her back and neck. On good days she could be active for part of the day, although she often needed to spend the day resting due to pain.

Ms. Sable loved quilting, and she developed her own style using small fabric hexagons and squares. She gave away dozens of her quilts, wall hangings, and placemats. She was a warm and generous person who enjoyed sharing what she had and giving things to others in need.

She was an avid reader, especially of historical books about English monarchs, American indians, and the Old West. She read from the Bible frequently.

Ms. Sable loved animals, including cats, dogs, birds, and fish. She was a volunteer at the spay and neuter clinic at Pope Memorial Frontier Animal Shelter in Orleans. She had a green thumb and kept her home decorated with houseplants and flower gardens.

She is survived by her husband, Jeremiah Sable, of Sheffield; by her daughter Grace Rodriguez in Racine; by her mother, Mary Roskilly, of Valdosta, Georgia; by her brother John Roskilly of Valdosta; and by her brother Glenn Roskilly of Oconomowoc, Wisconsin.

Condolences can be made to Ms. Sable’s family in an online guestbook at www.knightfuneralhomes.com.

Obituaries July 27, 2016

Posted on July 26, 2016 by editor

Sister Lydia Dargie

Sister Lydia Dargie, 85, FCSCJ (Sister Cecile de Marie), a Daughter of the Charity of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, died after a long illness on July 20, 2016, at the Holy Cross Health Care Center in Manchester, New Hampshire.

Lydia Dargie was born January 2, 1931, in East Ryegate. She was the daughter of Alfred Dargie and Annie (Fillion) Dargie. Lydia Dargie professed her vows with her religious congregation on July 3, 1951. During her 65 years of religious profession Sister Lydia served in various missions in Champlain and Morrisonville, New York; Newport, Burlington, Rutland, and Barton; Colebrook and Littleton, New Hampshire. Since 2013, Sister Lydia had resided at the Holy Cross Health Care Center in Manchester, New Hampshire, due to declining health.

Sister Lydia was a dedicated math teacher for much of her active life. She was especially happy to cheer on students who needed a boost of confidence, and willingly encouraged the arts and crafts — dimensions which she believed enhanced students’ capacity for learning concepts, both in the classroom and in life situations. Students readily stayed connected with her over the years, which Sister Lydia cherished as her teaching transitioned into administration and office work, in either a school setting or in a diocesan center. She loved to grow flowers and marveled at the beauty of nature.

Sister Lydia was predeceased by her parents, and her brother Ernest. She is survived by a brother, Everett, of Springfield, Massachusetts; and a sister, Dora Ward, of St. Johnsbury; by several nieces and nephews, by special niece, Robin Scarbeau of Essex Junction; and by her sisters in the religious community.

To offer condolences, please visit www.RossFuneral.com. Memorial donations in Sister Lydia’s memory may be sent to the Daughters of the Charity of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, 226 Grove Street, Littleton, New Hampshire 03561.

Merrill E. Guyette Jr.

Merrill E. Guyette Jr., 77, of Derby, died on July 18, 2016, in Newport.

He was born on June 1, 1939, in Newport, to Merrill and Ruby (Waterman) Guyette Sr. In November of 1964 he married Kathleen Rideout, who survives him. Mr. Guyette entered the United States Air Force and was a veteran of the Vietnam War. He was a foreman for Winterset Construction Company. His hobbies included working on cars and tinkering around the house.

He is survived by his wife, Kathleen Guyette of Derby; by his children: Doug Hillman of Ventura, California, Thomas Bussell and his wife, Patricia Place, of Derby, Tim Bussell and his wife, Cathy, of Derby Line, Don Bussell of Pasorobles, California, Susan Oster and her husband, Mark, of New Paris, Pennsylvania, and Sherry Armstrong of Derby; by 13 grandchildren; 23 great-grandchildren; by his brother Mike Guyette and his wife, Kathy, of Derby; by his sisters: Marilyn Currier of Newport, Muriel Dunn of Rouses Point, New York, Mary Gonyaw of Hartford, Connecticut, and Carol York of Manchester, New Hampshire; by his half-brothers: David Guyette and his wife, Carol, of Newport Center, Robert Guyette of North Troy, and John Guyette and his wife, Lisa, of North Troy. He was predeceased by his half-brother Jimmy Guyette.

Services will be held at the convenience of the family. Should friends desire, contributions in his memory may be made to the Mary Wright Halo Foundation, 1073 Upper Quarry Road, Newport, Vermont 05855.

Online condolences can be made at curtis-britch.com.

David Neil Holland

David Neil Holland, 65, of Acton, Massachusetts, died July 19, 2016.

Born March 11, 1951, in Toronto, Ontario, to the late Francis E. and Lucy E. Holland, he grew up in Derby Line. He was educated at Derby Academy and Vermont Academy and graduated from the University of Puget Sound in Tacoma, Washington. He enjoyed being outside; he hunted, fished, played golf, and skied while growing up. He traveled around the world and spent time in Nepal, which was a special place to him. He was a history and special education teacher in the Malden, Massachusetts school system and had a positive impact on many children’s lives in their formative years.

He is survived by his wife of 33 years, Michele B. (Barkett) Holland; twin daughters Emily Ellen Holland and Melissa Margaret Holland; and grandson John Carey Thompson VI, all of Ayer, Massachusetts; by his mother Lucy E. (Hart) Holland of Derby Line; sister Judith Bairstow of Sebastian, Florida; and brother Thomas Holland of Delmar, New York.

Instead of flowers, donations can be made to the Special School for Disabled and Rehabilitation Center in Katmandu, Nepal. The school can be found on Facebook under the name Sabita Upreti Ssdrc, or visit the website at www.ssdrc.org.np/.

Karen Karnes

Karen Karnes, 90, a pioneer of the modern studio pottery movement, known for moving seamlessly between creating functional ware and complex, modernist sculptures, died July 12, at her home in Morgan.

Her death was announced by Ann Stannard, Ms. Karnes’s life companion.

Today Ms. Karnes’s life in art appears preordained. As a young student at Brooklyn College she studied with Serge Chermeyoff, who led her to Black Mountain College and Joseph Albers, then a year in Italy where she met Gio Ponti. She returned in 1950 to study under Charles Harder at Alfred University, and then back to Black Mountain where she became part of one the most important collective art communities of the twentieth century. It was there that Ms. Karnes first gained national attention for imbuing traditional forms with a minimalist design aesthetic. Each cup, bowl and casserole was unique, the previous one inspiring the next, while collectively being part of a singular exploration of form.

In 1954, Ms. Karnes left Black Mountain College with writer/artist MC Richards, pianist David Tudor, composer John Cage, and architect and patron Paul Williams and his wife, writer Vera Williams, to found the Gate Hill Cooperative outside of New York City. This “Black Mountain for adults” became Ms. Karnes’s home for the next 25 years. While at Gate Hill, Ms. Karnes produced a series of press-molded and coiled architecturally-scaled planters, birdbaths, fireplaces, and chairs that announced her originality and creative ambition.

In 1967, at Gate Hill, Ms. Karnes built a salt kiln, a decision that would play a significant role reviving nationally this centuries old technique. From this point her work took off and she began to make some of the most iconic studio ceramics of the era: cut-lidded jars, large scale vases, bowls, moving away from more modest tableware. She said, “[Salt-glazing]…forced me into another place, and once the leap was made, I kept growing.” Her well-known salt-glazed jars with their straightforward rising forms and striated facets of wire cuts on the top of the lids, are one of the longest and most personal explorations of a single form in the field. This model of studio production, in which a popular, iconic, and useful pot undergirds and supports more experimental and evolving bodies of work, is one that many studio potters have employed successfully since.

In the late 1970s, Ms. Karnes left Gate Hill for Vermont. Having moved with Ann Stannard, her companion of many years, Ms. Karnes began making some of her most ambitious work: larger thrown vessels and asymmetrical ones, coil-built over thrown bases. The pots often embraced color: blues, greens and yellows, subtly modified by the wood flame and ash. These works showed a new complexity, moving between commonplace polarities of pot/sculpture, landscape/body, male/female, spiritual/physical, and inside/outside. Several bodies of work followed: massive cut-lidded jars, pots with slits that ran up added hollow bases that might be larger than the body of the vessel itself, and forms with reaching “wings,” also divided by slits. Additionally, she produced forms with added necks, tulipieres, and boulder-like shapes with craters, some open to the inside, some not.

During this period, Ms. Karnes showed at the Garth Clark Gallery in New York City, as well as other leading galleries such as Joanne Rapp, Habitat/Shaw, Ester Saks, and Leedy/Voulkos. She received multiple awards and honors over these years: a National Endowment for the Arts Visual Artist fellowship, The Society of Arts and Crafts (Boston) Medal of Excellence, the Vermont Arts Council Governor’s Award for Excellence in the Arts, the American Crafts Council’s Gold Medal, and the Watershed Legends Award.

Her work was the subject of the retrospective exhibition A Chosen Path: The Ceramic Art of Karen Karnes that originated at Arizona State University Art Museum in 2011 and traveled to the Asheville Art Museum, the Currier Museum of Art, the Racine Art Museum and The Crocker Art Museum. Ms. Karnes’s work is in the permanent collections of those five museums and many more including the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Brooklyn Museum, the American Craft Museum, the Philadelphia Museum of Art, the Los Angeles County Museum of Art and the Victoria and Albert Museum.

Ms. Karnes’s family, friends and neighbors — all are welcome — to join in on a celebration of her art and life on September 11, 2016 at the Unitarian Church (opposite the Irving gas station) in Derby Line, at 4 p.m. — submitted by Kurt Sundstrom and Mark Shapiro.

Scott W. Keysar

Scott W. Keysar, 73, died peacefully at his home in Derby early Friday morning in the loving arms of his wife, Sue.

He was born October 25, 1942, in Hartland, Maine, son of the late Berkeley and Marion (Parkman) Keysar (Alley). The family moved to Derby Line in 1948, where Mr. Keysar grew up on Main Street and was known and loved by everyone for his friendly and outgoing personality. His love of all sports began as a member of Doc Stuart’s first Little League team. He was a baseball and basketball player in high school, a hockey goalie in middle age, and an avid Red Sox fan forever. Mr. Keysar graduated from Derby Academy in 1960 and Vermont Technical College in 1962 with a degree in highway engineering. He immediately commenced his career with the Vermont Agency of Transportation, and through his work at District 9, he developed close relationships with fellow employees and town officials. He was responsible for designing, constructing, and securing funding for many highway improvement projects throughout the Northeast Kingdom. Mr. Keysar retired in 2014 after 52 years.

Mr. Keysar met the love of his life, Susan Tetreault, of Newport Center, and they were married on September 30, 1978. They built a home together out of the woods in Derby, raised their sons Stephen and Jason, and enjoyed their many close friends and family members. Mr. Keysar was motivated to see his sons complete college, and find partners, and one of the greatest joys in his life was to spend time with his two grandchildren. Having done all this, may he rest in peace. Mr. Keysar is survived by his wife, Susan; sons Stephen and his wife, Phuong, and children Elliot and Lily of Aurora, Colorado, son Jason and his partner, Sara DeFilippi, of Brooklyn, New York; sister Nancy Porter and husband, Bruce, of Bonita Springs, Florida; and brother Steven Keysar and wife, Karlene, of South Hero. He is also survived by his sisters-in-law: Patricia Laber and her husband, Scott, of Derby, Margaret Derick and husband, Mike, of Newport; by brothers-in-law: Tom Tetreault and wife, Mary, of Newport Center, and Richard Tetreault and wife, Susan, of Newport Center.

Mr. Keysar was a beloved uncle to many nieces and nephews.

Friends may call on Friday July 29, 2016, at the Curtis-Britch-Converse-Rushford Funeral Home, 37 Lake Road, Newport from 9 to 11 a.m., followed by a celebration of his life at 11 a.m., with Pastor Glenn Saaman officiating. Should friends desire, contributions in his memory may be made to the Ronald Holland Dialysis Center, in care of North Country Hospital, 189 Prouty Drive, Newport, Vermont 05855.

Online condolences can be made at curtis-britch.com.

Jeremy Michael Maxwell

Jeremy Michael Maxwell, 32, beloved son of Vanessa Raymond and Paul Maxwell, died on July 19, 2016, at his home in Coventry.

Born and raised in the Northeast Kingdom, Mr. Maxwell’s passion for the outdoors was present in everything he did. An avid hunter and fisherman, he enjoyed being in nature and the woods, so it was only fitting that he worked his way up to becoming a foreman with Asplundh Tree Experts. His friends and family fondly remember a smile that never left his face, a kind and generous heart, and a palpable and genuine love for those who were lucky enough to have known him.

He is survived by his fiancé, the absolute love of his life, Katie Ste. Marie; his mother, Vanessa Raymond, and her fiancé, David Palmer; and his father, Paul Maxwell; by his treasured sister Torrie Maxwell, his rock, with whom he shared his soul, and her fiancé, Charles Sanville; by his brother and forever “bud” Brandon Maxwell, who learned and laughed by Jeremy’s side, always looking up to his trusted brother and best friend; by his brothers Paul Maxwell Jr. and Jonah Kontoes; and his sister Ashley Maxwell; by his adored aunt Teresa La Porte and her husband, David; by his cousins: Shane, Tom, Michael, Jay, Jacob, and Linzy; by his nieces and nephews: Payson, Harlee, Bentley, Keagan, Harper, Hailey and Rayna; and by his dog, Remington. He was predeceased by his aunt Melissa Chamberlin and by his grandparents Roland and Estelle Raymond.

Should friends desire, and in lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to assist with funeral expenses. Donations can be mailed to: care of Vanessa Raymond, 363 Hugh Herron Road, Saranac, New York 12981.

Online condolences can be shared at curtis-britch.com.

Tom Nelson

Tom Nelson, 79, formerly of Albany and Irasburg, died peacefully on July 16, 2016, at Maple Lane Nursing Home where he had been a resident since May 23.

He was born in Albany, on July 2, 1937. He was the son of Allen and Marion (Hoyt) Nelson.

He attended elementary school in Albany and graduated from Craftsbury Academy in 1956. He dedicated his life to farming on the family farm in Albany until he retired on July 2, 1999.

Following his retirement, he lived for 13 years in Orleans before moving to The Meadows housing complex in Irasburg in December 2012.

During his earlier years, he enjoyed bowling, snowmobiling, tractor and horse pulls at the county fairs, woodworking, his “coffee club” at Bob’s Quick Stop in Irasburg, and being outdoors. He will fondly be remembered for his easy going, good-natured personality, his integrity and honesty, and his quick, genuine smile.

Mr. Nelson never married or had children of his own, but experienced several special bonds and friendships with his hired hands who worked beside him on the farm, in particular his “right-hand men,” Randy and Raymond Pierce, who have kept in touch with him over the past 30 years. He looked forward to their annual summer visits on their trips back to Vermont. He was also a special part of his nieces’ families: Shelly Morey and her husband, Michael, of Newport; and Sonya Kittredge and her husband, Paul, of Albany. He enjoyed celebrating birthdays and holidays with them. Yankee Swaps will never be the same without him!

He is also survived by his brother Roger and his wife, Beatrice, of Derby Line; by his niece Beccy Hardy, and her husband, John, of Derby Line; by his nephews Scott Nelson of Coventry, Stacey Nelson of Essex, Bill Nelson of Lyndonville; and by several nieces and nephews from Washington State who traveled to Vermont and met him for the first time just three short weeks ago.

Mr. Nelson is also survived by his great-nephews: Benjamin Kittredge, Matthew Kittredge, Scott Nelson Jr., John Curtis Hardy, Thomas Hardy, and Cooper Nelson; great-nieces Tessa Nelson and Jenna Morey; and by his sister-in-law Janet Nelson of Albany.

He was predeceased by his parents; by his brother George Nelson in 2013; and by his sister Ruth Lamotte in 2014.

Donations in his memory can be made to Green Mountain Farm to School, 194 Main Street, Suite 301, Newport, Vermont 05855.

Online condolences may be made at www.curtis-britch.com.

Scott E. Perkins

Scott E. Perkins, 44, of West Charleston, died in Lebanon, New Hampshire, on July 19, 2016, after a long illness.

He was born on September 14, 1971, in Newport, a son of Margaret (Bresse) Perkins and the late Gerald Perkins.

He graduated from North Country Union High School. At the age of 16, he started working in the maintenance department at North Country Hospital and rose to obtain the supervisor position. Mr. Perkins really appreciated his fellow workers and the concern that they showed through his illness. He and his companion, Anick, enjoyed going camping with the trailer, traveling to Maine, fishing, and snowmobiling. They also loved his motorcycle, four wheeling, and being with his friends. He would willingly lend a hand to anyone, enjoyed being a jokester, and spending a lot of time with his daughter, Emily, taking great pride in all of her many accomplishments, as she was the center of his life.

He is survived by his companion, Anick Desorcy; his daughter Emily Perkins; his mother, Margaret Perkins; his brother Steven Perkins and his wife, Cresta; by several aunts, uncles, and cousins; by his niece Maleighna; by his nephews: Tyson and Brock, and by grand-nephew Stephen. Mr. Perkins was predeceased by his sister Elizabeth, his father, Gerald, and by grandparents Ralph and Mable Perkins, and Ernest and Lucille Bresse.

Should friends desire, contributions in his memory may be made to the Mary Wright Halo Foundation, 1073 Upper Quarry Road, Newport, Vermont 05855.

Online condolences can be made at curtis-britch.com.

Kenneth C. Pierce Jr.

Kenneth C. Pierce Jr., 90, of Newport, died on July 23, 2016, at North Country Hospital, with his loving family by his side.

He was born in St. Johnsbury on May 30, 1926, to Kenneth C. Pierce Sr. and Maude (Davis) Pierce. His mother passed away when he was five years old, and he was then raised by his father and stepmother, Ozilda “Rose” (Choquette) Pierce.

Mr. Pierce married Mary Jean Blake on May 15, 1948. To this union were born three children, who along with his loving wife of 68 years, survive him: Daniel Pierce and his wife, Cindy, of Mount Joy, Pennsylvania, Cathryn Comar and her husband, Jim, of East Dorset, and Susan Wright and her husband, Roy, of Derby. He is also survived by his grandchildren: Trish Pierce White, Jessup Pierce, Ryan Comar, Amy Comar Pickering, and Devan, Damen and Taylor Wright; along with eight great-grandchildren: Judah, Aliyah and Sarayah White, Jack Pierce, Lily Comar, Corbin Pickering, and Brody and Myles Wright. He is also survived by a sister, Penny Flood of Newport; and by a brother, David Pierce of Northfield, Massachusetts; and by numerous nieces and nephews.

Mr. Pierce was predeceased by his parents, and by two brothers, Ronald and Winthrop.

Prior to his marriage, Mr. Pierce served his country during World War II in the U.S. Army. He was part of the U.S. mainland Japan Assault Force, and was aboard a troop ship when the Japanese surrendered. He was then stationed in Nara, Japan, to help the Japanese people reorganize their lives following the war. Following the war, Mr. Pierce worked for the railroad for a short time, and tried his hand at owning his own log truck, which proved to be less than safe or profitable.

However, following his marriage to Ms. Blake, he still pursued his passion for trucking and drove the highways and byways of Vermont and New England for the majority of his life. He hauled grain for Eastern States Farmer’s Exchange, hauled milk for Earl Hackett, and Nelson Farms, and then asphalt for Pike Industries in his later years. He was the first bulk tank milk driver hired by H.P. Hood Milk Company, and eventually became manager of their truck fleet in Newport. When Hood’s sold their truck fleet, Mr. Pierce became a field man for Northern Farms Milk Coop until their closing. Needless to say, Mr. Pierce knew every road in Orleans County and beyond, and knew just about every farmer as well.

Mr. Pierce was also a volunteer fire fighter for the Newport City Fire Department and Ambulance Squad for many years, and was always out the door when the fire whistle blew or the “red phone” rang at the house. He was a member of the American Legion Post 21, and the United Church of Newport.

Mr. Pierce loved the outdoors and was an avid hunter and fisherman. He loved going to his deer camp on Bald Mountain every November, and spent many hours playing cribbage with his hunting buddies and father.

However, the pride of his life was his summer cottage on Lake Seymour where he and Mrs. Pierce spent every summer for the last 50 years. During his later years, he loved to sit on his front porch and watch the boats come and go. He especially loved it when his grandson and best friend, Ryan Comar, with whom he had a unique and special relationship, restored his old boat and would take him out on the lake fishing once again.

In his retirement, Mr. Pierce never forgot his community, donating many hours as a volunteer at North Country Hospital, and driving veterans back and forth from White River Junction in the Disabled American Veterans van. Mr. Pierce was very social and had the “gift of gab” and loved meeting and talking with anyone and everyone.

Mr. Pierce loved his family and will be greatly missed.

Friends may call from 6 to 8 p.m. on Wednesday, July 27 at the Curtis-Britch-Converse-Rushford Funeral Home, 4670 Darling Hill Road, in Newport.

Funeral services will be held at 10 a.m. on Thursday, July 28 at the United Church of Newport. Interment will take place at 1:30 p.m. at the West Village Cemetary in West Charleston with full military honors.

Should friends desire, contributions in his memory may be made to the Mary Wright Halo Foundation, 1073 Upper Clyde Street, Newport, Vermont 05855, or to the United Church of Newport, Third Street, Newport, Vermont 05855.

Online condolences may be made at curtis-britch.com.

Laurette A. Woodworth

Laurette A. Woodworth, 72, of North Troy, died on July 20, 2016, in Newport.

She was born on April 12, 1944, in Jay. She was the daughter of Ernest and Beatrice (Voyer) Mayhew.

Ms. Woodworth was a wonderful cook, always reading cookbooks and trying new recipes. She also loved doing word search puzzles, enjoyed her cats, and cared for her yard.

She is survived by her brothers Raymond Mayhew and his wife, Debbie, of North Troy, and Marcel Mayhew and his wife, Kathy, of Jay; by her sister Mary Jane LaPan of Jay; and also by numerous nieces and nephews whom she loved to visit with.

She was predeceased by her parents, and by her husband, Glover Woodworth.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Ms. Woodworth’s name to her sister Mary Jane LaPan, P.O. Box 85, North Troy, Vermont 05859, to help defray expenses.

Online condolences may be made at www.curtis-britch.com

Obituaries July 27, 2016

Posted on July 18, 2016 by editor

Ralph C. Miko

The world lost a legendary Navy attack pilot and naval officer with the death of Captain (retired) Ralph C. “Mouse” Miko, USN on July 10, 2016.

Captain Miko was born August 24, 1950, in Rantoul, Illinois, and was a 1973 graduate of Florida State University. Captain Miko was commissioned an ensign in 1974, and served in the Attack Squadron 176 Thunderbolts, Attack Squadron 55 Warhorses, and Attack Squadron 85 Black Falcons. During his ten major overseas deployments, including his tour as the Carrier Air Wing 7 Landing Signal Officer, Captain Miko participated in combat operations off the coast of Libya (1986), and the entirety of Operation Desert Storm (1991). By the pinnacle of his career as the commanding officer of VA-85, he had been awarded the Commander Michael G. Hoff Award, as 1988 Attack Aviator of the Year, and had earned two Distinguished Flying Crosses (with the Combat “V”), three individual air medals (with the Combat “V”), and numerous additional unit and campaign awards. Captain Miko amassed an astonishing 4,600 flight hours in seven types of aircraft, and 1,100 “traps”, and the long-standing records of the Navy’s Tailhook Association indicate that he may have literally been the finest carrier aviator of all time, with 42 “Top Ten” Awards, for his performance behind the ship — for unsurpassed precision in his carrier landing skills. One of the most extraordinary A-6 Intruder pilots throughout the Atlantic Fleet, there are hundreds of aviators, officers, and the very finest enlisted personnel who would have unhesitatingly followed him anywhere, under even the most demanding operational and intense combat conditions.

Captain Miko ended his Naval career with tours on the NATO staff in Belgium, and on the staff of the Chief of Naval Operations. Upon retirement in 2001, he became a much-loved community leader in Derby Line, where he remained, until a final move to Murrayville, Georgia, in 2015. Captain Miko is survived by his wife, Jennie, originally from Tallahassee, Florida; their two children and spouses, Edward and Marcee, and Samantha and Mike; three grandchildren; his parents and four siblings; and a very long list of close relatives who will miss him dearly.

Memorial contributions can be made to the A-6 Intruder Association, Wings Over America, American Cancer Society, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, or to the charity of your choice.

John T. Nelson

John T. Nelson, 80, died Wednesday, July 13, 2016, at the St. Johnsbury Health and Rehabilitation Center following a sudden illness.

Mr. Nelson was born March 30, 1936, in Haverhill, New Hampshire, the son of the late Robert and Lottie (Gochee) Nelson. He grew up in and around St. Johnsbury and graduated from St. Johnsbury Trade School. On September 21, 1956 he married the former Patricia Gilman and shared nearly 60 years together. He was a hunter and fisherman and was able to take fishing trips to Alaska. He enjoyed cutting wood and taking trips to Maine to spend time at the ocean. For over 50 years he worked at Vermont Tap and Die. John was an avid worker, but a very devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather.

Survivors include his wife of 60 years, Patricia; son, Michael Nelson, and his wife, Julie, of Orleans; daughter, Terri Nelson of Sheffield; brothers, Donald “Donnie” Nelson, and his wife, Geraldine, of Sheffield, Ronald “Ronnie” Nelson of St. Johnsbury, Phillip “Bingy” Nelson, and his wife, Barb, of St. Johnsbury; sisters, Lillian “Sis” Treagus, and her husband, George, of St. Johnsbury, Florence “Tootie” Matthewson of St. Johnsbury, Ruth “Ruthie” Woodward, and her husband, Leonard, of Danville, Lottie “Jayne” Nelson of Lyndonville, Francis “Frannie” Nelson of Wells River; grandchildren, Elysha Thurston, and her husband, Matt, Christopher Eastman, David “Ben” Nelson, Danielle Nelson, and her husband Tucker Dunlavey, and Tricia Eckhardt; five great-grandchildren: Lilah, Grady, Reed, Jamison, and Elijah; and several nieces and nephews.

John was predeceased by three brothers: Robert “Pat,” Scott “Bill,” and Paul Nelson; a sister, Harriett Davis; and a sister-in-law, Dorothy Nelson.

At the convenience of the family, a private graveside service will be at the Lyndon Center Cemetery with the Rev. Barbara Dwyer officiating.

Memorial donations may be made to the Santa Fund, 1187 Main Street, Suite 3, St. Johnsbury, Vermont 05819.

Condolences may be shared privately with the family at www.guibordfh.com

Madison Rose Simoneau

Madison Rose Simoneau, 15, of Newport, died on July 12, 2016, in Boston.

She was born on December 25, 2000, in Newport, beloved daughter of Tammy (Hetrick) Simoneau and the late Timothy Simoneau. Madison graduated from Newport City schools and would have entered North Country Union High School in the fall.

Madison, Miss Madi, or Mad Hatter as she was frequently called, was an amazing, courageous, spirited young lady who impacted everyone she met. You couldn’t help but smile or laugh when she did. She drew you into a place that brought you such joy and happiness with her wonderful personality. Madison was tested with trials and tribulations every day, and approached them with tenacity and grit. Her heart light shined like the sun and warmed your heart and filled it with love. Madison is now in heaven with her dad, wearing her sparkling wings, and her heart light will now fill the sky. We love you, Madison!

She is survived by her mother, Tammy Simoneau, of Newport; by her siblings, Samantha, Korrie, Morgan, Riley, Jayden, and Landon Simoneau, all of Newport. She is also survived by her niece, Penelope Longe; by her grandmother Linda Simoneau of Newport; and by a very large extended family in the Newport area.

A celebration of life party will be held August 28, at Crystal Lake State Park in Barton, from noon until closing. Hot dogs, hamburgers, and drinks will be provided. Please bring a side dish, and anything you need for the beach. The family hopes to see you there to celebrate this amazing young lady’s life.

Should friends desire, contributions in her memory may be made to the Boston Children’s Hospital, 300 Longwood Avenue, Boston, Massachusetts 02115; or to the Vermont Association for the Blind and Visually Impaired, 60 Kimball Avenue, South Burlington, Vermont 05403; or to Prevent Child Abuse of Vermont, 94 Main Street, #3, Montpelier, Vermont 05602; or to Make a Wish of Vermont, 431 Pine Street #214, Burlington, Vermont 05401. Online condolences can be made at curtis-britch.com.

Eric Stevens

Eric Stevens, most beloved father, grandfather, husband and friend, died peacefully at his home in East Charleston on Friday, July 15, 2016, in the company of his loving family. He fought a courageous battle for the past years with a cruel and rare neurological disease, multiple systems atrophy. In spite of the challenges he faced, he never lost his smile or his ability to make others smile.

Born in Moorestown, New Jersey, November 23, 1948, to Joseph S. and Constance Stevens, he found his home in East Charleston in the early 1970s. Settling on Echo Lake, he created his homestead and lived a contented and active life. There he raised his family, ran a bed and breakfast for many years, planted and maintained an ornamental tree nursery, tended his prolific garden, and cultivated his friendships. Mr. Stevens was an avid trout fisherman and steward of Echo Lake and the surrounding Clyde River watershed. He volunteered to raise trout at the Morgan fish hatchery for over a decade, supporting the efforts of the Vermont Fish and Wildlife Conservation Group. He also lived to ride his bicycle, clocking miles and miles as he traversed the highways and back roads of Orleans and Essex counties with his best buddies. With the change of seasons, he’d get out on his backcountry skis, trekking where few would ever think to venture on foot, much less skis or snowshoes.

He is best known by many around the North Country for all the years he played lead guitar in rock and roll bands — the Shuffle Band, Commotions, and BTUs most famously. Many have fantastic memories of gigs at the Osborne Hotel, Gantre’s, the Valley House hotel in Orleans, and many other venues. He also played a mean banjo in his early days, acoustic guitar, and most recently dobro, playing bluegrass and other more eclectic tunes with his friends and family in his kitchen band. Above all, he appreciated technical proficiency in the musicians he admired, and in craftsmanship and artistry of all kinds. Mr. Stevens sought that proficiency in his own musicianship and all else he accomplished.

His countless friends and neighbors, as well as many business and professional acquaintances who became his friends over the years, will all miss his ready smile, his priceless wit and intelligence, his quiet and at times irreverent humor. He was endlessly curious and interested in so many and varied subjects and causes. In his last days, his voracious appetite for reading allowed him to explore the world beyond his armchair, learn of cultures beyond his domain, and continue to meet new people — in fiction and nonfiction — as he so enjoyed doing his whole life long.

His love for his friends, for music and nature, and for people from every walk of life was surpassed only by his love for his daughters: Jossamber, and her husband, Barnaby Shapiro, of Stowe, and Samantha, and her husband, Danny Kinsley, of Winooski; and for his wife of 38 years and greatest love, Peggy. He was also the proud and adoring “Poppy” to Jacob and Leila Shapiro, and to his third grandchild, baby Stevens-Kinsley, due in November. He is survived as well by his brother Joseph W. Stevens, and his wife, Susan, of Haverford, Pennsylvania; by his nephews Joe and Andy and their families; and his stepson Moss Jennings, all of California. Special thanks to his medical doctors, the nurses and therapists of Orleans-Essex Visiting Nurse Association and Hospice, and to caregivers Jessica Welch and Jeff Scelza, and their daughter Allayna.

Family and all his many friends and neighbors are welcome to gather to celebrate his life on July 23, from 1 to 4 p.m., at the NorthWoods Stewardship Center in East Charleston. Donations in his memory may be made to Patient Choices Vermont, P.O. Box 671, Shelburne, Vermont 05482, or online at patientchoices.org, or to the Charleston Volunteer Fire Department, care of Blair Moulton, CVFD Treasurer, 71 East Echo Lake Road, West Charleston, Vermont 05872.

Online condolences can be made at curtis-britch.com.

Marilyn (Marni) Elizabeth (Cochran) Surdy

Marilyn (Marni) Elizabeth (Cochran) Surdy, 85, of Derby, died on July 11, 2016, at her home on Lake Salem.

She was born on February 17, 1931, in Derby, to Ralph and Helen (Crawford) Cochran. She married Dr. Theodore Ernest “Ted” Surdy, who predeceased her on September 7, 1998.

She graduated from Derby Academy and later received her bachelor’s degree from Boston Deaconess Hospital. She worked as a registered nurse for many years.

She is survived by her children: Craig Cochran Surdy and his wife, Renee Ann, Dr. Theodore Michael “Mickey” Surdy and his wife, Nancy, Sandra “Sandie” Ann O’Harrow and her husband, Harry, and Dr. James “Jim” Edward Surdy and his wife, Kristin; by her grandchildren: Janelle Marie Kandziora and her husband, Chris, Craig Ryan Surdy, Theodore Nash Surdy, Taryn Surdy and her husband, Ben Kunath, Delaney McConkey and her husband, Pat, Cory O’Harrow, Amy Strauser and her husband, Scott, Ashly Haugland and her husband, Ben, Derek O’Harrow, Jamie Surdy, Marnie Surdy, Connor Surdy, Jordan Cotter, and Ashtin Cotter. She is also survived by her great-grandchildren: Aiden Kandziora, Mason Kandziora, Asher McConkey, Dryden Strauser, Adison Strauser, Emma Haugland, Emmie Cotter, and Beckam Cotter.

Services will be held at the convenience of the family. Online condolences may be made at curtis-britch.com.