Eugene S. "Gene" Nunn
DANVILLE - Eugene S. "Gene" Nunn, 79, of Danville, and formerly of Peacham, died Saturday, Nov. 15, 2003, at his sister's residence in Barnet, after an extended illness.
He was born May 3, 1924, in Peacham, the son of William E. and Gladys A. (Farnham) Nunn.
He married Helen Peck on May 3, 1989.
He was employed as the Road Commissioner for the Town of Peacham for many years, and then later as a mechanic for Washington Electric.
He is survived by his wife Helen (Peck) Nunn; a son, Bruce E. Nunn of Virginia; a stepdaughter, Phyllis Smith of Boscawen, N.H.; six sisters; two brothers; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.
He was predeceased by three brothers and two sisters.
A calling hour will be held from 7 to 8 p.m. at the Ricker Funeral Home in Woodsville, N.H. on Tuesday, Nov. 18. Funeral services will be held at 1:30 at the funeral home on Wednesday, Nov. 19. A spring burial will be in Peacham Village Cemetery.
Memorials in Gene's memory may be made to the Danville Rescue Squad, Danville, VT 05828.
The Ricker Funeral Home in Woodsville, N.H., is in charge of the arrangements.
Ronald Elliot Parker
EAST LEMPSTER, NH - Ronald Eliott Parker, 85, of East Lempster, NH, died Thursday (November 13) at the Hospice House in Concord, NH, following a period of failing health. He was born in Newport, NH on September 6, 1918 the son of Fred C. and Hallie E. (Hensilwood) Parker and had lived in East Lempster, NH since 1978.
Ronald was a member of the Congregational Church in East Millinocket, ME. He was a veteran of the US Navy, having served during WWII from 1939 - 1946. His tours of duty included searching for U Boats in the Caribbean on the USS Guinivere, and as a Radioman 1st Class aboard the USS Battleship Texas and as Chief Radioman aboard the USS Haines in the Mediterranean off the French Coast during the Southern invasion of Europe during D-Day. His unit earned the Bronze Star for this campaign. His last tour of duty was in Okinawa aboard a Canadian Destroyer overseeing restoration of communications after a torpedo hit where he celebrated V-J Day. He then entered the Civil Aeronautics Administration in 1946 after being honorably discharged from the Navy. His career in the CAA, the precursor to today's FAA, took him and his family from Newport, NH, to Buffalo, NY, Nantucket Island, Millinocket, ME and finally, Montpelier, VT where he finished up 35 years with the US Government, including Naval service. Ronald completed advanced communication courses in computer science in 1944 at Treasure Island and San Francisco during wartime. He held a commercial pilot's license and flew for Legasse's Flying Service in Millinocket Lake, ME in the 1950's as a member of numerous search and rescue parties looking for downed aircraft and lost sportsmen.
He was an accomplished skier and golfer and as a younger person, Mr. Parker competed for the Newport, NH Ski Club in the 1930's. In the 1950's he started the Millinocket, ME Ski Team and coached the racing team, often competing along with the High School students.
In East Millinocket he is remembered for teaching a generation of elementary aged students, the age of his son and daughter, the elements of the sport.
Mr. Parker's love for skiing influenced his son and daughter, who themselves took up recreational skiing and racing at the High School and collegiate levels, following his example of organizing a ski program in the Town of Fairlee, VT for elementary school age children. In addition to skiing, Mr. Parker was an accomplished outdoorsman, who hiked and fished the Penobscot River's watershed. He introduced and taught his family and friends to camp, canoe, swim, and mountain climb. He was known for taking long hikes with his German Shephard dog, Siwash, off into the remote backcountry of Maine, New Hampshire and Vermont.
In retirement, Ronald avidly pursued golf, playing out of the John Cain Country Club in Newport, NH. A member of the club for many years, he played league and tournament levels, occasionally beating the field.
He was the widower of Elizabeth Louise (Wiggins) Parker who died on May 7, 2002. Members of his surviving family include a daughter, Susan B. Parker, Contoocook, NH and Washington, DC; 2 grandsons, Jeffrey R. Avery, Mark B. Avery, 2 great grandsons, Bodie John Avery, Ty Borden Avery, a brother and sister-in-law, Richard D. Parker and Robbie M. Parker, Mt. Sunapee, NH; a sister, Virginia E. Parker, Newport, NH. He was predeceased by a son, William Parker, and 2 brothers, Vernon Parker and Stanley Parker.
There will be no visiting hours. Graveside committal services will full military honors provided by the Newport, NH VFW Post #25 will be held at 1:00 PM on Saturday (November 22) in the North Newport Cemetery with the Rev., Dr. R. Craig MacCreary, pastor of South Congregational Church, officiating.
In the event of inclement weather, services will be held in South Congregational Church.
Refreshments and fellowship will follow in the Church Hall following the services. The family suggests that memorial contributions be made to the Concord Regional Visiting Nurse Association, Hospice House, PO Box 1797, 240 Pleasant Street, Concord, NH 03302.
Arrangements have been entrusted to the Roy Funeral Home, 93 Sullivan Street, Claremont, NH.
Ruth Sykas, Rites
MONTPELIER - A memorial service for Ruth Sykas, who died Nov. 10, 2003, was held Saturday, Nov. 15, 2003, at the Bethany Church in Montpelier.
The Rev. Mark R. Pitton, pastor of the church, officiated the service.
William S. Beard, son in-law, was the soloist and was accompanied by organist Arthur Zorn.
The ushers were grandchildren, Jessica Michelson, Jason Crowley, Dan Beard, and Wendi Jones.
Guare and Sons Funeral Home in Montpelier was in charge of the arrangements.
Theresa Keefe Bancroft
BARRE TOWN – Theresa Keefe Bancroft, 74, of Windy Wood Road, died Thursday, November 6, 2003, at Fletcher-Allen Health Care in Burlington. She was born August 13, 1929, in Barre City, daughter of Edward and Mary (Jordan) Keefe. She graduated from Spaulding High School in 1947 as the Salutatorian of her class. In 1951, Theresa graduated from Trinity College in Burlington with a Bachelors Degree in Education. On July 10, 1954, she married Ernest H. Bancroft at St. Monica’s Church in Barre. Most of their married life has been spent in South Barre and since 1998 on Windy Wood Road. Mrs. Bancroft first taught English and the Romance Languages at Cabot High School and then at Lower Hyde Park High School. After raising her children, she was an elementary school teacher in Washington and Barre Town. Mrs. Bancroft completed her teaching career at Williamstown Elementary School. She was a life member of the St. Monica Church and had belonged to Court St. Monica #1181, the Catholic Daughters of the Americas for many years as well as serving on numerous church and parish committees. She was a founding member and chairperson of the Church Shut In Flower Committee, sang in the church choir and was a pianist at the daily 7:00 AM Mass. Also utilizing her special talent as a singer and musician. She also taught in the church CCD program. She had been an active volunteer and Gray Lady at the former Barre City Hospital and the Central Vermont Medical Center. She had been a leader of the Brownie and Junior Girl Scout Program as well as a Cub Scout Den Mother. Mrs. Bancroft’s Irish heritage was most important in her life. St. Patrick’s day was always a special occasion in her life. She had made two trips to Ireland to explore her Irish roots. Theresa cherished her family above everything else. She made it a point not to miss any of her grandchildren’s school, athletic or special events. In addition to her husband, survivors include two daughters, Deborah Balserus of Burlington, Mary Ellen Natusch and her husband Paul of Westford, MA; a son, Ernest H. “Skip” Bancroft Jr. of Barre Town; nine grandchildren, Kimberly and Daniel Balserus, Benjamin, Jimmie and Jennifer Natusch, Katherine “Katie”, Erin, Buddy and Michael Bancroft; two sisters, Rita Keefe of Champlain, NY and Patricia Vanecek of Burlington; nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by a son-in-law, Charles Balserus and a brother, Francis Keefe. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated 11:00 AM Monday, November 10, 2003, at St. Monica’s Church. Burial will follow at the Wilson Cemetery in Barre Town. Friends may call at the Hooker and Whitcomb Funeral Home, 7 Academy Street, Barre from 2:00 – 4:00 PM and again from 7:00 – 9:00 PM on Sunday, November 9, 2003. Memorial contributions may be made to the Central Vermont Home Health and Hospice, 600 Granger Road, Barre, VT 05641.
Geraldine L. Storti
PEORIA, AZ. – Geraldine L. Storti, 75, of Peoria, AZ, formerly of Barre, Vermont, went to be with the Lord on November 4, 2003. One of 18 children, she was born on August 7, 1928 in Roxbury, VT the daughter of Elmer and Christie (Williamson) Sayers. She was predeceased by her husband Augustus Storti. Geraldine was a high-spirited lady and continued that spirit throughout her life. She enjoyed garage sales and flea markets, collecting dolls, crossword puzzles, her cocker spaniel dogs, and rocking chairs. She was a friend to many. Her children, their husbands and wives, grandchildren and great-grandchildren appreciate and will forever remember the many ways in which she touched their lives. Left to cherish her memory are her sons and daughter-in laws Ernest & Amy Storti, Washington, VT; Augustus, Jr. and Barby Storti, Enfield, N.H.; and her daughters and son-in-laws Patricia and David Croteau, Irvine, CA; Marie and Michael Wright, Peoria, AZ, nephew Neil Sayers, Jr. whom she and her husband raised from a toddler, and step-daughter Anita (Storti) Spooner of Plattsburg, NY. Geraldine is survived by grandchildren Joseph, Alicia, Allen, Chantel, Crystal and Matthew Storti; Karen Ellis, David Croteau, Jr.; Rachelle, Danielle, and Anthony Storti; Daniel Levesque and Amy Wright, and great-grandchildren Brianna Storti, Cody Levesque, Jenna Mason-Wright, Danielle and David Croteau. She will be missed by her sisters Madeline McDermott, Myrtle Davidson, and Pauline Brooks, and brothers Alvin, James, Kenneth, Ethan, Allen and Elmer Sayers. Two brothers and one sister died in infancy. She was also predeceased by her two sisters Ruby Erno and Kathleen Appovian and three brothers Raymond, Donald, and Neil Sayers. A memorial service in Vermont will be scheduled at a later date. Memorial contributions may be made to the Central Vermont Home Health & Hospice, 600 Granger Road, Berlin VT.
Millard Stranahan
EAST CALAIS – Millard Stranahan, 71, of East Calais, died Thursday, Nov.6, 2003, at the Fletcher Allen Hopsital in Burlington. Born in Montpelier on April 25, 1932, he was the son of Norman and Mary (Lamphere) Stranahan. He graduated from Northfield High School in 1950. He joined the U.S. Navy after high school and served on the USS Bataan in Korea. He was employed as an installer for New England Tel and AT&T from 1954 until his retirement in 1984. He was an active member of the Mountain Tamer Snowmobile Club, and was the director and founding president of VAST. He is survived by a half brother, Edward Leonard of Calais; a half sister, Jane Cookson of Victor, Mont.; and several nieces and nephews. A memorial service will be held Tuesday, Nov. 11 at 2 p.m. in the Barber and Lanier Funeral Home in Montpelier. There are no calling hours. Memorial contributions may be made to a charity of one’s choice.
Frances B. Tarbox
WOODSVILLE, N.H. – Frances B. Tarbox, 88, of Woodsville, died Thursday, Nov. 6, 2003, at Hanover Terrace Healthcare in Hanover, N.H. Hale Funeral Home of Bradford is in charge of the arrangements, which are incomplete at this time.
Bollman, Theodore
WEST BURKE - Theodore H. "Ted," 73, of West Burke, died suddenly at his home Sunday, November 2, 2003.
He was born in Dairyland, Wisconsin on August 14, 1930 the son of Alexander E. and Marie (Sundquist) Bollman.
Mr. Bollman served several years in the US Army during the Korean Conflict and was awarded the Purple Heart Medal.
Ted worked for twenty-seven years as the Culinary Arts teacher at Lamoille Union High School in Hyde Park retiring in 1994. He enjoyed working with and helping young people, serving as a Cub Scout leader, VICA Leadership Advisor, and also served on the local Diversion Board. He also enjoyed hunting and fishing. He served under three Caledonia County Sheriff's as a Deputy for many years and was a member of the VFW Post 10038 of Lyndonville.
Survivors include his wife of forty-seven years, Reva (LeFebvre) Bollman of West Burke; two sons, Scott Bollman of Wheelock, and Eric Bollman and his wife Heather of Lyndonville; a daughter, Sonja Bollman and her companion Steven Bray of Lyndon; six grandchildren, Eric S., Amber, Elizabeth, Katie, Taylor, and Evan Bollman; two brothers, Alexander Bollman and his wife Ruth of Wilcox, AZ, and Thomas Bollman of Bethel, VT; two sisters, Marie Moresco and her husband Richard of San Francisco, CA, and Genevieve Panconi of Edison, NJ; nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his granddaughter, Emily Bollman in 1994; and two sisters, Gwendolyn Baumann and Virginia Allen.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Friday, November 7 at 11:00 a.m. at St. Elizabeth Catholic Church in Lyndonville with the Rev. Stephen Nichols celebrant. Burial will follow on St. Elizabeth Cemetery.
Friends may meet with the family Thursday evening from 6 - 8 at the funeral home. There will be a vigil service at 7:45 PM.
In lieu of flowers, donations made in Ted's memory may be directed to, Riverside Life Enrichment Center, 2104 East Burke Road (Rte. 114), Lyndonville, VT 05851.
Arrangements are by Guibord Funeral Home, located on the corner of Main and Center Streets, Lyndonville.
Bernice V. Bicknell
TUNBRIDGE - Bernice V. Bicknell, 78, died Monday, Nov. 3, 2003, at the Berlin Health and Rehabilitation Facility in Berlin.
She was born Aug. 2, 1925, in Barre, the daughter of Lee and Elsie (Hood) Whitney. She attended school in Washington, where she lived with her family. She graduated from Spaulding High School in Barre in 1943, and then attended Champlain College in Burlington.
She was married Feb. 25, 1950, to Almond H. Bicknell of Tunbridge. They lived most of their married life in Tunbridge.
She worked for many years selling Raleigh & Stanley Home Products. Her hobbies included playing the piano, visiting with friends, and playing solitaire. She was a member of the Chelsea West Hill Independent Gospel Church in Chelsea.
She is survived by two sons, John and David Bicknell of Tunbridge; two daughters, Eloise Alexander of South Barre and Daisy Pratt of Gainesboro, Tenn.; seven grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren. She was predeceased by her husband, Almond, in 1998.
Calling hours will be held this evening from 6 - 8 p.m. at the Boardway & Cilley Funeral Home of Chelsea. A committal service will be held on Friday at 10 a.m. at the Hunt Cemetery in North Tunbridge. Following the committal, a funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. at the Bethel Christian Fellowship Church in South Royalton.
Memorial contributions may be made to Central Vermont Home Health Care, 600 Granger Road, Barre, VT 05641.
Donald A. Brechin
PETERSBURG, VA. - Donald Albert Brechnin passed away Tuesday, October 14, 2003 at Southside Regional Medical Center, Petersburgh, Virginia. Graveside service with military honors were conducted at noon Friday, October 17, 2003 at Quantico National Cemetery in Quantico, Virginia.
Donald was born in Barre, VT on Feb. 24, 1936. He enlisted in the U.S. Navy at 18, serving his country for 23 years, including two tours of duty in Vietnam.
Donald was preceded in death by his son, Christopher Joseph, his brother, Paul Brechin, and his parents, Albertine and Russell Brechin.
Donald will be fondly remembered by his wife of 44 years, Juanelle Williams Brechin, his daughters Dona Brechin and Cynthia Brechin-Mazion and husband, Laurent Mazion and three grandchildren including Scott Brechin Young, Charlotte Brechin Hartle, and Olivia Maizon as well as his "adopted family", Dwaine Williams, Rhonda Roland and her husband Roland, Mary Williams Dickson, Nadine Williams-Gonzales, and Gary and Esther Williams.
Donald will also be fondly remembered by his siblings, Wendell Brechin and wife Joan of Dighton, MA, Alice O'Hearn and husband Bob of Alstead, NH, Pauline Brechin Sherwood of Burlington, VT, John Brechin of Lombard, IL, and Helen Brechin Ferrari and her husband Gian Carlo Ferrari of Modena, Italy.
Joining other family members who cherish his memory are many nieces and nephews and countless loving friends.
Edith I. Robbins
HUDSON, FLA. - Edith I. Robbins, 63, of Hudson, Fla., died Oct. 31, 2003, at her home.
She was born in Barre.
She was a homemaker and was a member of the Ladies of the Moose of Barre and Our Lady Queen of Peace Catholic Church in New Port Richey, Fla.
Surviving are a daughter, Sherry Griggs of Gastonia, N.C.; three brothers, Daniel Hussey of Barre, Michael Hussey of Greensboro, N.C., and Steven Hussey of Springfield, Mo.; and three sisters, Patricia Haynes of North Beach, Md., Maureen Graves of Ninnekah, Okla., and Dawn Dodge of Ninnekah, Okla.
Jeannine Desmarais
BARRE – Jeannine Desmarais, 92, of North Barre, died Tuesday, Nov. 4, 2003, at the Mountain View Center in Rutland. Born Aug. 27, 1911, in Farnham, Quebec, Canada, she was the daughter of Herminigle and Olympe (Colette) Lavigueur and attended schools in Farnham. On June 6, 1933, she married Aime Desmarais in Canada. They lived in Canada until moving to Barre in 1940. He died in 1969. Mrs. Desmarais was a homemaker. She was a member of St. Monica Catholic Church in Barre, the Ladies of St. Anne of St. Monica Parish, the Women of the Canadian Club, and the St. Jean the Baptiste Society. She enjoyed quilting, knitting, and crocheting. Survivors include two daughters, Marcelle Perreault of Rutland and Rae Covey of Mason, Ohio; two sons, Real Desmarais of Barre and Donald Desmarais of Hampton, Maine; eleven grandchildren; fifteen great-grandchildren; three great-great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews. A son, Gaston Desmarais; a brother; and three sisters predeceased her. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Friday at 11 a.m. at St. Monica Catholic Church in Barre. Internment will be in the St. Monica Cemetery in Barre. There are no calling hours. Contributions in her memory may be made to St. Monica Catholic Church in Barre. Arrangements are under the direction of the Hooker and Whitcomb Funeral Home in Barre.
Inez Fraser Rowell, Rites
RANDOLPH – Funeral services for Inez Fraser Rowell, 80, of Randolph, who died Oct. 24, 2003, were held Wednesday, Oct. 29, 2003, at the Green Mountain Gospel Chapel. Rev. Ronald Rilling officiated the service. Rev. Rilling offered the eulogy. Burial followed at Pleasant View Cemetery. Pallbearers were John O’Brien, Gary Foote, Jack Davis, Joel O’Brien, Richard Maxham, and Chuck Fulkerson. A reception followed at the Green Mountain Gospel Chapel. Calling hours were held Tuesday evening at the Day Funeral Home in Randolph.
Mildred M. Stratton, Rites
BARRE – A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated on Monday at noon in St. Monica Catholic Church in Barre for Mildred M. Stratton, 90, of Barre, who died Nov. 1, 2003, at the Haven Health Center in St. Albans. The Rev. Henry Furman, parochial vicar, was the celebrant. Albert Gagnon was the crucifer and led the Prayer of the Faithful. Her son, Eugene Stratton, offered reflections. Scripture readings from the Old Testament and New Testament were by son, Richard C. Stratton. Interment
followed in the Hope Cemetery in Barre. Rev. Furman offered committal prayers. Bearers were grandsons, Richard L. Stratton, Timothy R. Stratton, Robert Rainey Jr., James Rainey, and Jeffrey “Chuck” Stratton. A prayer service, led by Rev. Furman, was held Sunday evening in the Hooker and Whitcomb Funeral Home in Barre. A reception of fellowship and refreshments for family and friends followed at the Barre Elk’s Lodge.
Emma May Turner
EAST BARRE – Emma May Turner, 91, died Nov. 2, 2003, at Central Vermont Hospital in Berlin. She was born Jan. 17, 1912, in Chelsea, the daughter of Eugene Frank and Elizabeth Maria (Hancock) McCosco. She attended school in Tunbridge, where her family had moved when she was a child. They later moved to South Royalton. She married Freddie Elwin Turner of East Barnard on November 8, 1932. They lived on a farm on Broad Brook for sixteen years before moving to a farm in East Brookfield in 1948, where they lived for 27 years. She worked as a nurses’ aide at the Gifford Memorial Hospital in Randolph for over seventeen years. Following the death of her husband in 1975, she moved to Orange and then to Avery Apartments in East Barre, where she has lived for the past 17 years. She is survived by a daughter, Betty Jean Carbonell and her husband Rafael “Tony” Carbonell of Orange; a sister, Olive Lucinda Severance of Poughkeepsie, N.Y.; four grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by a three-year-old son, Freddie Elwin Turner Jr., and two sisters, Gladys Elizabeth Leighton and Alice Cynthia Bertha McCosco. A graveside service will be held Saturday, Nov. 8 at 11 a.m. in the Branch View Cemetery in South Royalton, with Pastor Herman Benjamin officiating. Funeral arrangements are under the direction of the Boardway & Cilley Funeral Home in Chelsea.
Hazel R. Haggett
BROOKFIELD — Hazel R. Haggett, 93, died Nov. 1, 2003, at her home in Brookfield.
Arrangements are pending with the Day Funeral Home in Randolph.
O. Vernon George
MIDDLEBURY — O. Vernon George, 83, died Friday, Oct. 31, 2003, surrounded by his family at his home in Middlebury.
He was born in Barre on March 5, 1920, the son of Otto S. and Lucy (Willet) George.
He graduated from Spaulding High School in 1938 and from the Brattleboro School of Business in 1940.
He served in the U.S. Army Air Corps during World War II. After his service he worked for the Vermont State Police. He was one of the members of their first graduating classes in 1947. He later transferred to the Department of Motor Vehicles in St. Johnsbury where he worked as district inspector until his retirement in 1975.
He is survived by his wife of 55 years, Pauline; two sons, Dean George of Middlebury and Leonard George of Newport; two daughters, Deanne Hentrich of San Diego, Calif., and Leanne Lincoln of Portola Valley, Calif.; four sisters, Gwendolyn Minoli and Priscilla Paquet of Barre, Faye Berube of Fall River, Mass., and Ramona Boulanger of South Burlington; a brother, Donald George of Barre; and seven grandchildren.
He was predeceased by three brothers, Stephen, Russell and Rupert George.
A Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated at 11 a.m. Monday in St. Mary’s Church in Middlebury. Graveside committal services and burial will be in St. Sylvester Cemetery in Barre at a later date.
Calling hours will be from 6 to 8 p.m. today at Sanderson Funeral Home in Middlebury.
Memorial contributions may be made to Addison County Home Health and Hospice, P.O. Box 754 Middlebury, VT 05753.
Bert Schwarz
BLAIRSVILLE, Ga. — Bert Schwarz was born in New York City on December 3, 1915. After a lifetime of good health, Bert’s body was found on Wednesday, October 29, 2003 after being missing all night. He died on his property and was discovered during a search that included local police, rescue personnel, neighbors and friends. Bert grew up in New York City, and in 1941, enlisted in the Army Air Corps, now the Air Force. He was sent, as a member of the 42nd Airborne Division, to the Philippines, but when the Airborne Division planes did not arrive on time before the Japanese forces did, Bert was transferred to fight as infantry. After 99 days, the US Division surrendered and began what was the defining experience of Bert’s life.
Over the next 2 ½ years, Bert endured the Bataan Death March and internment in various Japanese prison camps in the Philippines as a POW. At the close of the war, during transport to another camp, Bert’s ship was struck by American forces unaware of its cargo of prisoners. Bert was one of the fortunate few who escaped. Upon returning, to the States, Bert married Laura Graham Gibbons of Alabama. When the American government asked Bert to go to Japan to head a company to reconstruct the country’s textile industry, he agreed. In a year, he had gone from being tortured in a Japanese prison camp to managing 20,000 Japanese workers. Some of whom have remained his friends for life. In 1956, Bert and Laura moved to Chappaqua, NY where they lived for the next 24 years. Bert worked as a textile engineer in New York City, traveling the world, living part-time in Hong Kong and visiting China in the earliest days of open trading.
When Bert retired, he helped his long time friend Bob Macauley establish the non-profit, independent of government of funding, Americares Foundation, an international relief organization from which Bert retired as a director in September of this year. He traveled to many “hot spots” from Afghanistan to Beirut to the Sudan, using his diplomacy and ability to get along with all kinds of people to distribute medicines and other necessities to people in countries in crisis.
In 1980, Bert and Laura moved to Blairsville, and immediately became involved in the local community. Bert continued to travel for Americares, and also began a long-standing commitment to the young people of this area. His first involvement was with the Wilderness Scouts. He used his connections as a great fundraiser for them, even getting Donald Trump to donate a bus! He was recently instrumental in founding the Friends of Children, Georgia Chapter. He also developed a program to bring veterans to the schools to tell their stories first hand to history class students so they would have a greater appreciation of the sacrifices made for their comfort and freedom. In 2001, at the age of 85, realizing that Blairsville did not have a Memorial Day Parade, Bert started one. Veterans from Atlanta have driven up to participate, and local organizations have created floats to illustrate their patriotic sentiments.
Bert is survived by Laura, his wife of 58 years. His son William Schwarz and daughter-in-law Kathie Alyce of Plainfield, Vt., and his son Robert Joaquin Schwarz of New York City, NY and his daughter Sukoshi Rice of Blairsville, GA. He is also survived by his five grandchildren Rasta Sherman of Lake Forest, CA, Pablo Sherman of Blairsville, GA, Lucas Alyce-Schwarz of Portland, OR and Dana and Jenna Alyce-Schwarz of Plainfield, VT, and his sister Shirley Frank of Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
He will be interred with full military honors at Andersonville National Historic Site, a national memorial for all prisoners of war, in Andersonville, Ga., on Thursday, Nov. 6.
Contributions may be made to Americares Foundation, 161 Cherry St., New Canaan, CT 06840. We can remember and honor Bert by upholding the values he lived for.
Beatrice Smith
HARDWICK — Beatrice Irene Smith, 74, of Hardwick died Oct. 31, 2003, at Copley Hospital in Morrisville.
She was born July 31, 1929, in Landaff, N.H., daughter of Harold M. and Myrtle (McGuire) Keough.
She was educated in Bradford and Hardwick public schools.
She married Bernard Arthur Smith on Aug. 21, 1946, in Morrisville.
Mrs. Smith was first employed by Orleans Southwest School District in its Hardwick Elementary, and Hazen Union School lunch programs. She later worked for Hardwick Plastics and ran a day care for several years.
She enjoyed reading, sewing, cooking and crochet.
She was a member of the United Church in Hardwick and the women’s fellowship of that church.
Survivors include her husband, Bernard; four daughters, Sheila Fuller, Doreen Grover and Linda Bellavance, all of Hardwick, and Debra Daley of Woodbury; 12 brothers and sisters, several nieces, nephews and cousins.
A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. Tuesday at the Northern Vermont Funeral Home, 60 Elm St., Hardwick.
Visiting hours will be Tuesday from 1 p.m. until the service.
In lieu of flowers, contributions in her memory may be made to the Hardwick Fire Department, P.O. Box 1279, Hardwick, VT 05843, or to the Hardwick Rescue Squad, P.O. Box 837, Hardwick, VT 05843.
Mildred M. Stratton
BARRE — Mildred M. (Gonyo) Stratton, 90, a former longtime Fairview Street resident, died Saturday, Nov. 1, 2003, in the Haven Health Center in St. Albans. She had been in ill health for many years.
A longtime seamstress, she had owned and operated Janet’s Dress Making on Main Street in Barre and later at her home.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be offered Monday at Noon in St. Monica Church in Barre. Interment
will be in Hope Cemetery. Friends may call today from 6 to 8 p.m. in the Hooker and Whitcomb Funeral Home, 7 Academy St., Barre. A prayer service will be held at 7:30 p.m.
Katherine W. "Kay" Lyon
BARRE - Katherine W. "Kay" Lyon, 92, of Ayers Street, died Wednesday, October 19, 2003, at Mayo Health Care in Northfield. She was born December 26, 1910, in Hardwick, daughter of Howard H. and Frances (Weinmann) Lyon Sr. She was a graduate of Peoples Academy in Morrisville, The Johnson Normal School and from the University of Vermont with a Bachelor's Degree in Education. She later earned a Masters Degree in Education at Boston University. She was an elementary school teacher in the Barre School System for many years, retiring in June, 1972. She was an avid reader. She was a long time member of the Hedding United Methodist Church, the United Methodist Women and Washington County Retired Teachers Association. Survivors include her brother, Howard Lyon of Ithaca, NY, and her sister, Caroline Moeller of Glens Falls, NY; nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by a brother, Walter Lyon; four sisters, Lois Rivers, Muriel Pressey, Eleanor Tripp and Helen Gray. A graveside service will be held at the convenience of her family at the Pleasant View Cemetery in Morrisville next spring. There are no calling hours. The Hooker and Whitcomb Funeral Home, 7 Academy Street, Barre, is in charge of the arrangements.
Joseph Michael Rob
EAST MONTPELIER - Joseph Michael Rob, 61, of East Montpelier, died Tuesday, Oct. 28, 2003. He was born April 30, 1942, in London, England, the son of Mary and Charles Rob. He spent the last three decades working for the National Life Group of Montpelier and was Chief Executive Officer of the Sentinel Companies. He is survived by his wife, Mary Ann Rob of East Montpelier; his mother; his brothers, Peter Rob of Nome, Ark.; two sisters, Rebecca Podore of Cincinnati, Ohio, and Carolyn Zaleski of New York City, N.Y.; his son, Alexander Rob of Louisville, Colo.; and two daughters, Katherine and Joanna Rob, both of London, England. A memorial service will be held Sunday, Nov. 2, 2003, at 2 p.m. at the Old Meeting House in East Montpelier Center. In lieu of flowers, donations in Mr. Rob¡¦s memory may be made to The Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation, 3 Forest St., New Canaan, CT., 06840, or www.multiplemyeloma.org. A complete obituary will be published at a later date.
George O. Vernon
MIDDLEBURY - George O. Vernon, 83, died Friday, Oct. 31, 2003, surrounded by his family at his home in Middlebury. He was born in Barre on March 5, 1920, the son of Otto S. and Lucy (Willet) George. He graduated from Spaulding High School in 1938 and from the Brattleboro School of Business in 1940. He proudly served in the U.S. Army Air Corp during WWII. After his service he worked for the Vermont State Police. He was one of the members of their first graduating classes in 1947. He later transferred to the Department of Motor Vehicles in St. Johnsbury where he worked as District Inspector until his retirement in 1975. He is survived by his wife of 55 years, Pauline; two sons, Dean (Alice) George of Middlebury and Leonard (Debra) George of Newport; two daughters, Deanne (John) Hentrich of San Diego, Calif. and Leanne (Matthew) Lincoln of Portola Valley, Calif.; four sisters, Gwendolyn Minoli and Priscilla Paquet of Barre, Faye Berube of Fall River, Mass., and Ramona Boulanger of South Burlington; a brother, Donald George of Barre; and seven grandchildren. He was predeceased by his parents and three brothers, Stephen, Russell, and Rupert George. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Monday at 11 a.m. in St. Mary's Church in Middlebury, with Father Justin Baker as the celebrant. Graveside committal services and burial will be in St. Sylvester Cemetery in Barre at a later date. Calling hours will be held Sunday from 6 to 8 p.m. at Sanderson Funeral Home in Middlebury. Memorial contributions may be made to Addison County Home Health and Hospice, PO Box 754 Middlebury, VT 05753.
Aurora C. "Dot" (Aja) Borne, Rites
BARRE CITY - A celebration of Dot's life was held Thursday October 30, 2003, at 11 a.m. in St. Monica Church in Barre for Aurora C. "Dot" (Aja) Borne, of Laurel Street who passed away on October 27, 2003, at Woodridge Nursing Home in Berlin, Vt. The Rev. Henry P. Furman, Parochial Vicar of the church, was the celebrant. Crucifer Albert Gagnon, was altar server, led the Prayer of the Faithful and assisted as Eucharistic Minister. Organist, Angeline Ennis, accompanied soloists, Rita LaPerle and Romeo Bilodeau in the hymns, "How Great Thou Art," "The Lord Is My Shepherd," "Amazing Grace," "Prayer of St. Francis," and "Let There Be Peace On Earth." The Old Testament reading was given by Terry Flynn, a niece and Pam Conway, also a niece, read from the New Testament. Offertory gifts were presented at the altar by Consuelo Hebert and Encarnation Norris, both sisters, and Dr. E. Joseph Aja, a brother. Words of remembrance were offered by Carol Feliciano and Angela Robinson, both nieces. Active bearers were, Gary Hebert, Jamie Aja, Daniel Aja, 'Ben' Gabino Aja, Jr. and Mark Aja, all nephews and Michael Walsh, brother-in-law to Dot¡¦s son Albert. In attendance were Classmates of SHS Class of 1948 as well as employees from Central Vermont Medical Center. A Prayer Service was held Wednesday evening at the Pruneau-Polli Funeral Home and was led by Father Furman. Burial was in Hope Cemetery in Barre where Father Furman offered Committal Prayers. Following the burial a fellowship dinner was held at the Hilltop Restaurant on Quarry Hill. Arrangements were in the care of the Pruneau-Polli Funeral Home, 58 Summer St., Barre, Vt.
Walter Flatow
WATERBURY CENTER - Walter Flatow, 83, passed away peacefully from cancer with his wife and family by his side at the Veterans Administration Medical Center in White River on Monday, October 27, 2003. Born in Berlin, Germany on March 17, 1920, he was the son of the late Erich and Josephine (Leyser) Flatow. On December 18, 1965, he married the former Marie Morey Salls in Burlington. Walter attended private schools in France, Italy and Germany before coming to the United States. He was a graduate of the University of Pennsylvania Agricultural School in 1939. A veteran of WWII he served with the U.S. Army where he valiantly earned a Purple Heart and Oak Leaf Cluster. Walter loved the United States and firmly believed in being involved in community affairs but to never stop questioning or accepting the status quo. As an immigrant he knew his fortune. Walter was founding member of the Waterbury Center Volunteer Fire Department in 1958 which later became a municipal volunteer department and was a member of the committee that established zoning and the planning process for the town of Waterbury in 1979. Walter received the Paul Harris Fellowship Award in recognition for over 50 years of benefit work on behalf and for Rotary. He faithfully committed his time and knowledge to any and all of the benefit auctions in Waterbury, Stowe, Waitsfield, Montpelier and Burlington. He never missed an opportunity to attend or make new friends at Rotary meetings nationally and internationally during his travels. He was a life member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars, Disabled American Veterans, and the Elks Club. Walter established Midstate Motors in Waterbury Center which he successfully operated for 30 years until 1978, when he actively pursued auctioneering as a vocation by establishing Flatow Auction Associates with his wife. As a charter member of the Vermont Auctioneers Association, he served as President, Vice-President and always as a director. He was also a member of the National Auctioneers Association and was a member and graduate of the Certified Auctioneers Institute. Above all Walter loved a good story and telling them too. Walter is survived by his wife of 38 years, Marie Flatow; 4 daughters, Sherry Libby and her husband, Donald of Garland TX, Karen Wells and her husband, Michael of Dade City FL, Gail Flatow of Indianapolis IN and Deborah Flatow of Orlando FL; a step-son, Steve Salls and his wife, Marian of Starksboro; 5 grandchildren, Tracy Libby Askew, Erica Libby Brumit, Rachel Gaugh Decoteau, Jamie Gokey, and Shane Salls; 8 great-grandchildren, Thomas J. Brumit, Hannah L. Brumit, Elijah D. Askew, Harmon M. Bradford, Michaela Gokey, Samuel Gokey, Hailey Salls, and Shane Salls Jr.; a brother, Robert Flatow and his wife, Vera of Hayward CA; 2 nephews, Bruce Flatow and Kirk Flatow; as well as numerous cousins. Walter was very close to and survived by his in-laws, Maurice and Yvette Morey of Cabot. Funeral services will be held from the Wesley United Methodist Church in Waterbury on Monday at 11 a.m. with interment
to follow with full military honors in the Vermont Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Randolph Center. Friends may call at the Perkins-Parker Funeral Home in Waterbury on Sunday from 7-9 p.m. In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be made to the Waterbury Ambulance Service, PO Box 95, Waterbury Center VT 05677. Walter¡¦s family sincerely appreciates the excellent care and consideration the Physicians, Nurses and Staff provided him at the Veterans Administration Medical Center. On-line condolences may be expressed to the family by visiting www.perkinsparker.com
Joseph Michael Rob
EAST MONTPELIER - Joseph Michael Rob, 61, of East Montpelier, died Tuesday, Oct. 28, 2003. He was born April 30, 1942, in London, England, the son of Mary and Charles Rob. He spent the last three decades working for the National Life Group of Montpelier and was Chief Executive Officer of the Sentinel Companies. He is survived by his wife, Mary Ann Rob of East Montpelier; his mother; his brothers, Peter Rob of Nome, Ark.; two sisters, Rebecca Podore of Cincinnati, Ohio, and Carolyn Zaleski of New York City, N.Y.; his son, Alexander Rob of Louisville, Colo.; and two daughters, Katherine and Joanna Rob, both of London, England. A memorial service will be held Sunday, Nov. 2, 2003, at the Old Meeting House in East Montpelier Center. In lieu of flowers, donations in Mr. Rob's memory may be made to The Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation, 3 Forest St., New Canaan, CT., 06840, or www.multiplemyeloma.org.
Mary L. Alcuri
RANDOLPH - Mary L. Alcuri, 92, died Saturday, Oct. 18, 2003 at the Mountain View Center Genesis Elder Care in Rutland. She was born May 29, 1911 in Wilkes-Barre, Pa., the daughter of William and Annie (Kovalowski) Poderis. She attended Wilkes-Barre, Pa. schools. Following her education she moved to New York where she did housekeeping and cooking. She married Anthony J. Alcuri on Aug. 14, 1933 in New York. He died in the 1930s. Mrs. Alcuri moved to Connecticut where she continued cooking for families in the Greenwich and Westport area. She bought her home in Randolph in 1952 and moved here permanently in 1960. She was a member of Sts. Donation & Rogation Catholic Church in Randolph. She is survived by three granddaughters, Leslie Aitken and Jennifer West, both of Wayne, Pa., and McCall Growley of Berwin, Pa.; 7 great-grandchildren; a nephew Richard Balt of Poultney; and a niece, Jean Vince of Fairfield, Conn. She was predeceased by her son, Richard Alcuri, and a sister, Anna Baltrusaitis. A memorial mass will be celebrated Monday at 10:30 a.m. at Sts. Donation & Rogation Catholic Church in Randolph with Rev. John Milanese officiating. There are no calling hours. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Mountain View Center Genesis Elder Care, Patient Activity Fund, 9 Haywood Ave. Rutland, VT 05701. Arrangements are under the direction of the Day Funeral Home in Randolph.
Frederick F. "Fred" King
MORRISVILLE - Frederick F. "Fred" King, 73, of Morrisville, died Oct. 22, 2003 in Morrisville. He was born July 24, 1930 in Enosburg Falls. He attended Woodrow Wilson Technical School in Virginia. He married June Heath on Jan. 5, 1957. Mr. King was self-employed as a body shop mechanic. He was a musician and a renowned fiddler in northern Vermont. He is survived by his wife, June Heath King; a son, Larry James King; a sister, Janet Garfield of Brattleboro; a sister, Betty Ennis of Connecticut; a sister, Wilma Aplin of North Carolina; and brother, Maurice King of Vernon. Graveside services will be held Saturday at 2 p.m. at Pleasant View Cemetery in Morrisville. The White-Fiess Funeral Home of Morrisville is in charge of the arrangements.
Casimir Edward Chmielewski
WALDEN - Casimir Edward Chmielewski, 88, of Walden, died Oct. 20, 2003, at the Northeastern Vermont Regional Hospital in St. Johnsbury. He was born Sept. 8, 1915 in Danbury, Conn., the son of Paul and Antoinette (Jesionowski) Chmielewski. He attended St. Peters Catholic School and Danbury High School. He was married to Mary Josephine Eriquez on Sept. 27, 1941 at St. Joseph's Church in Danbury. He was employed at Bieber Goodman Hat Co. and Newman Endler Hat Co., both in Danbury. He was later employed for 16 years at the Barden Corp., and for 13 years for the City of Danbury School System as a groundskeeper. He retired in 1979, and moved to Walden where he has since made his home. He enjoyed gardening, traveling, and spending the winter months in Florida. He entered the U.S. Army on Aug. 18, 1943 in New Haven, Conn. He was stationed in Northern France. He received a European African Middle Eastern Theatre Campaign Ribbon with two service stars, and a Purple Heart for his efforts. He was honorably discharged on May 21, 1945 at Camp Edwards, Mass. He was a member of the Sacred Heart of Jesus Catholic Church in Danbury. He is survived by a son, Paul Chmielewski of Walden; four sisters, Mildred Sholtes of Bethel, Conn., Mrs. John (Nellie) Burzenski of East Haven, Conn., Mrs. Florence Belorit of Bethel, Conn., and Mrs. Harry (Valeria) Lane of Walden; three grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; several nieces, nephews, and cousins. He was predeceased by his wife, Mary in 1996; a son, Robert Chmielewski, and a brother, John Chmielewski. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Friday, Oct. 24, 2003 at 9 a.m. at the Sacred Heart of Jesus Catholic Church in Danbury. Burial will follow in St. Peter's Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, contributions in his memory may be made to the Walden Fast Squad, c/o Randy Hannet, 237 Upper Harrington Hill, West Danville, Vermont 05873. Northern Vermont Funeral Service is in charge of the arrangements.
Robert Henry Peduzzi
BARRE - Robert Henry Peduzzi, 67, of Barre, Vermont, and Newport Center, Vermont, passed away early Tuesday morning, October 21, 2003, at Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center, Hanover, N.H., following a long illness. Robert is survived by his wife, Marian Harpan Peduzzi, of Newport Center; his mother, Alberta Peduzzi, of Barre; his brother, Marco Peduzzi of Barre; his brother-in-law, Irenee Peloquin, of Plainfield; aunts, uncles, cousins, and six nieces and their families. Robert is predeceased by his father, Aldo Peduzzi; his sister, Sandra Peloquin; and by one niece, daughter of Marco Peduzzi. Robert was employed by Jones Brothers in Barre as a memorial draughtsman and designer after graduating from Spaulding High School in Barre in 1954. He became a journeyman apprentice at the Barre Memorial School of Arts and studied under Armand Beltrami and Emilio Politi. Later, he worked in Burlington for Vermont Structural Steel Corporation as a structural steel draughtsman, returning for a better position with Anderson Friberg Company, and later Rock of Ages, from which he retired in May of 2000. Robert served in the U.S. Army as a helicopter mechanic at Fort Rucker, Alabama, and at Elmendorf Air Force Base in Anchorage, Alaska, from 1957 to 1959. After retiring, Robert and his wife moved to Newport Center, Vermont, where he was a volunteer driver for the American Cancer Society, taking patients to hospitals in Hanover, N.H., Burlington and Berlin, Vt. Robert was well known for his activities with Whistling Arrow Archery Club and for instructing archers there. He developed an archery business, Buck 'N' Bow Archery, in his home while living in Montpelier. At the time, he also served as Director of the National Field Archery Association of New England. Robert was an active member and officer of the Barre Fish and Game Club and became President of the Vermont Federation of Sportsmen's Clubs, during which time he effectuated the legalization of bow hunting in Vermont. Downhill skiing, fishing and hunting were always priorities for Robert. He also became a student pilot. Contributions in his memory may be sent to North Country Hospital, 189 Prouty Drive, Newport City, Vermont, 05855. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Saturday, October 25, 2003, at 10 a.m. at St. Monica¡¦s Church in Barre. Burial will follow in the Green Mountain Cemetery in Montpelier. Calling hours will be held Friday, October 24, 2003, from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m., at Hooker & Whitcomb Funeral Home, 7 Academy Street, Barre, Vermont.
Yvette Marie Collum
CRAFTSBURY - Yvette Marie Collum, of Craftsbury, died Oct. 6, 2003 at Dartmouth Hitchcock Hospital in Lebanon, N.H. She was born Jan. 20, 1946 in St. Johnsbury, the daughter of Raymond and Georgette (Nadeau) Parker. She graduated from Hardwick Academy in 1964. She was married to Donald W. Collum on July 1967 in Hardwick. Mrs. Collum was a homemaker and devoted her life to her family and friends. She is survived by her husband, Donnie Collum, of Craftsbury; her mother, Georgette Parker, of Hardwick; two sons, Randy Collum, of Ipswich and Scott Collum, of Leominster, Mass.; two brothers, Denis Parker, of Woodbury and Michael Parker, of Hardwick; sisters, Patricia Anair, of Berlin and Shirley McGeoghegan, of Lewistown, Idaho; a grandchild; and several nieces, nephews, and other extended family. Graveside services were held Oct. 10 at the Fairview Cemetery in East Calais with Father Daniel Rupp and Rev. Gail Reuben officiating. Vocalist was John Dunlap. Memorial contributions may be sent to the Lupus Foundation, Vt. Chapter, PO Box 115 Waterbury, VT 05676. Malcolm R. Davis Funeral Home in Craftsbury Common.
Fortunate “Lucky” Croteau
BARRE CITY – Fortunate “Lucky” Croteau, 95, a long time resident of Delmont Avenue and more recently of Mayo Assisted Living in Northfield, passed Sunday October 12, 2003 at the Berlin Health & Rehab Center in Berlin, Vt. Born on June 15, 1908 in St. Pierre de Broughton, Quebec, she was the daughter of Ludger and Floride (Roy) Vallieres. She received her education in Canada. She resided in Stanstead, Que. before moving to Montreal, where she was employed at a men’s clothing shop. On May 26, 1921 she married Levi Croteau, of Barre, in Montreal. After their marriage the couple resided in Barre all their married life. Mr. Croteau passed away on September 14, 1992. She was a member of St. Monica Church; a life member of the Ladies of Ste. Anne Society; a 50 year member of the Ste. Jean the Baptiste Society; the American Legion Post #10 Ladies Auxiliary as well as the Canadian Club, all of Barre. She was an avid bowler, winning many trophies; enjoyed doing seamstress work and loved to play cards with her friends. Survivors include three sisters, Rite D’Agostini, Alberta Vallieres, Claire Vallieres all of Montreal; two brothers, Armand Vallieres of Montreal and Rosaire Valliere of Barre as well as many nieces and nephews; also her special friends and caregivers, Henry and Sally Bilodeau of Barre. She was predeceased by six brothers, Roland Valliere, Ronald (Chummy) Valliere, Leo Vallieres, Denis Vallieres, Laurent Vallieres and Raymond Vallieres; three sisters, Floride Vallieres, Laure Vallieres and Estelle Vallieres. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Wednesday at 10 a.m. in St. Monica Church in Barre. Family and friends may call at the Pruneau-Polli Funeral Home, 58 Summer St., Barre on Tuesday from 7 to 9 p.m. The Ladies of Ste. Anne Society are to meet at the funeral home at 7:30 p.m. for the Prayer Service. Burial will be at the Hope Cemetery in Barre. Contibutions, in her memory, may be made to the Father Bernard H. Messier Capital Improvement Fund, St. Monica Parish, 79 Summer St., Barre, Vt. 05641 or to Central Vt. Home Health & Hospice, Inc., 600 Granger Rd., Barre, Vt. 05641. u
John M. Gibb
BURLINGTON – Committal Services for John M. Gibb, who died Oct. 5, 2003 at the Vermont Respite House in Williston, were held Friday in the Elmwood Cemetery in Barre. His sister, Margaret Denton, read the poem, “The Grave Tree.” Words of remembrance were offered by Chris Beltrami. The flag was presented to his daughter, Christine Gibb, by Bruce Judd of the Hooker Whitcomb Funeral Home. Fellowship and a luncheon followed at the Hilltop Restaurant.
Lewis G. Graham, Sr.
MONTPELIER – Funeral services for Lewis G. Graham, Sr., who died Oct. 7, 2003, at Woodridge Nursing Home, was held Friday at 11 a.m. at Guare & Sons Funeral Home. Rev. David Ansel, Pastor of First Baptist Church in Montpelier, officiated the service. Charles Martin and Les Skinner, members of the Montpelier Grange provided a Grange service immediately before the funeral. Pallbearers were members of the Montpelier Police Department and Washington County Sheriff’s Department, which included Sgt. John Martin, Sgt. James Gavin, Sheriff Deputy Bruce McClure, and Sheriff Deputy Robert Sullivan. The funeral procession was escorted by the Montpelier Police Department and Washington County Sheriff Department. The committal was held in Plain Mont Cemetery in East Montpelier. Military honors were provided by the Army National Guard. Guare & Sons funeral home was in charge of the arrangements.
Myrtle Erma Lezer
BURLINGTON – Myrtle Erma Lezer, 93, a longtime resident of Websterville, died Oct. 9, 2003 at the Birchwood Terrace Health Care Center where she had made her home for the past 3 years. She was born in Enfield, N.H., on March 9, 1910, daughter of Henry A. and Kate (McColister) Follensbee. She attended Lebanon, N.H. schools. On January 16, 1938 she married James C. Lezer in Hardwick. They had lived in Websterville for many years. He died August 13, 1977. She will be especially remembered for her ongoing garage sale, crocheting, needlework, and her love of poetry. Survivors include her son, Richard Painchaud of Whately, MA; two daughters, Carole M. Lawson of South Burlington and Betty-Lou Bowen of Orange. Also surviving is a brother, Wayne Follensbee of Lebanon, N.H.; nine grandchildren; 18 great-grandchildren; six great great-grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by a daughter, Mary-Lou Lezer and 11 brothers and sisters. A graveside service will be held Wednesday at noon in the Wilson Cemetery in Barre Town. There are no calling hours. Memorial contributions may be made to the Williston First Responders, 7900 Williston Road, Williston, VT 05495. Hooker and Whitcomb Funeral Home, 7 Academy Street, is in charge of the arrangements.
Hugo Bardill Meyer
WOODBURY – Hugo Bardill Meyer, age 92, of Woodbury, Vermont, formerly of Summit, New Jersey, died peacefully at his home on October 10, 2003. He was born in Highland, Illinois on March 2, 1911, the son of Adolph and Clara Meyer. He graduated from Stanford University with great distinction in 1932 and the Harvard Business School in 1934. In November 1939 he married Elizabeth Hyde in Burlington, Vermont. Hugo’s business career began at the Continental Insurance Co., continued with Schroeder Rockefeller & Co., and, after service with the Seventh Armored Division in World War II, with U.S. Fiber and Plastics Corp., a company he founded in Stirling, New Jersey. For thirty years he was a member of the Board of Directors of the Pet Milk Company, St. Louis, Missouri, and for forty years he was involved in the growth and development of Piggly Wiggly Southern Company, in Vidalia, Georgia. He also was founder and president of Bardill Land and Lumber Co. in Wolcott, Vermont. Hugo has had a home in Woodbury, Vermont since 1946, and retired to Vermont in 1970, where he was on the Boards of the Vermont Natural Resources Council, Washington County Planning Commission, and the American Society of Dowsers. He had a fifty year interest in sustained yield and multiple use tree farming, and supported many environmental and conservation organizations. He was predeceased by his wife, Elizabeth Hyde Meyer, in 1982, and a daughter, Christina, in 1950. He is survived by five children and their spouses: Kitty and Clay Simpson of Summit, New Jersey, Steve and Patty Meyer of Hardwick, Vermont, John and Peg Meyer of Calais, Vermont, Peter and Karen Meyer of Colchester, Vermont, and Anne and Bob Hoffman of Barnet Center, Vermont. He leaves fourteen grandchildren, five great-grandchildren, and a brother, Ady Meyer, of Lake Havasu City, Arizona, as well as many nieces and nephews. His family and friends will greatly miss his optimism, his sense of humor, and his great story telling. Throughout his life he enjoyed hiking in the Vermont woods, fly fishing for the always elusive Atlantic Salmon, playing golf, and traveling the world. His family deeply appreciates the loving care given to Hugo by his caregivers that enabled him to remain at his home during his later years. A celebration of his life will be held at the United Church of Christ in Greensboro, Vermont on Saturday, October 18, 2003, at 11:00 A.M. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to: Central Vermont Home Health and Hospice, 600 Granger Road, Barre, Vermont 05641.
