John Mitchell Gibb
BURLINGTON - John Mitchell Gibb, 56, of North Champlain Street, died at the Vermont Respite House in Williston on Sunday, October 5, 2003, after a brave battle with cancer.
He was born June 26, 1947 in Barre, the son of Kathryn Gibb Dessureau and stepson of John B. Desureau. He graduated from Cutler Academy in Craftsbury in 1966.
From October 1966 to July 1970, he served in the US Air Force and had been stationed in North Dakota and Puerto Rico.
A man of many talents, John was an accomlished artist and chef who loved to travel where his wanderlust took him. People were drawn to his gentle spirit and love of a good story.
He is survived by two daughters, Christine Gibb of Colchester and Jennifer Miller of South Burlington; a sister, Margaret Denton of Barre; a stepbrother, Arthur Dessureau of Barre; and a stepsister, Irene Keating of Fairfield, CT. Also surviving are three nieces, Bonnie Parry, Valerie DuBois, and Amanda Denton, all of Barre; an aunt, Margaret Jackson; three cousins, Kathryn Warren, Susan Jackson, and Jo-Anne Higgins; and four grandnephews.
A graveside service will be held on Friday at the convenience of his family in the Elmwood Cemetery in Barre. There are no calling hours.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Vermont Respite House, 99 Allen Brook Lane, Williston, 05495.
Arrangements are under the direction of the Hooker and Whitcomb Funeral Home, 7 Academy Street, Barre.
Barbara Truax Izzo
WATERBURY CENTER- Barbara Truax Izzo - 77, of George's Way, Waterbury Center, passed away at Fletcher Allen Health Care in Burlington on Sunday, October 5, 2003. Born in Dunkin P.Q. Canada on June 28, 1926, she was the daughter of the late Otis and Lila (Sargent) Truax. On August 29, 1947 she married George Izzo in Waterbury. Mr. Izzo passed away on November 27, 1995.
Barb was a graduate of Whitcomb High School in Bethel. She was employed by the state of Vermont in the Tax Department and with the Agency of Human Services for many years. Probably best known for her musical talents, Barb spent over 50 years as a guitarist and vocalist, traveling throughout Vermont, New Hampshire, New York and Quebec playing with her brother Bud's band, Buddy Truax and the Playboys.
An active volunteer, Barb worked on blood drawing for the American Red Cross in Waterbury, was a driver for the Council on Aging and the Visually Impaired, and volunteered at the Berlin Health and Rehabilitation Center, and the Central Vermont Medical Center. An avid golfer, she was a member of the Blush Hill Country Club in Waterbury and was a champion of many Ladies State Day Tournaments held throughout the state. Her other memberships included Wesley United Methodist Church and Methodist Women of Waterbury, and the VFW Auxiliary Unit 792 of Montpelier. Her leisure time was spent cooking, sewing as well as being an avid quilter and knitter.
Barb is survived by her children, Susan Johnson and her husband, Johnie of Waterbury Center and G. Douglas Izzo of Boston, MA; 3 grandchildren and 1 great-grandchild; a brother, Sheldon "Bud" Truax of Waterbury; as well as nieces, nephews, and cousins.
A celebration of Barbara's life will be held from the Wesley United Methodist Church in Waterbury on Sunday at 1 p.m. Inurnment will follow in the Waterbury Center Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Waterbury Ambulance Service, PO Box 95, Waterbury Center, VT 05677 or to the American Lung Association of Vermont, 30 Farrell Street, South Burlington VT 05403-9987. To send on-line condolences to the family, please visit www.perkinsparker.com. Arrangements are in the care of the Perkins-Parker Funeral Home in Waterbury.
Roy Nicholson
Roy F. ("Nick") Nicholson, 77, formerly of 77 Terrace Street, Montpelier died peacefully Sunday October 5, 2003 at the Woodridge Nursing home in Berlin surrounded by his loving family. He was born June 5, 1926 in Woodstock, New Brunswick to Harold and Annie (Pickard) Nicholson. He was educated in New Brunswick, Canada receiving a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering at the University of New Brunswick. In 1947 he moved to Montpelier, VT and started working for the State of Vermont in January 1948. He retired on January 1, 1992 after 44 years. He was Associate Director of Construction and Maintenance at the time he retired.
He was a member and Past President of the VT Society of Professional Engineers, a member of the National Society of Professional Engineers, Transportation and Research Board Representative, and member American Association of State Highway Transportation Officials.
Roy was honored to be a Life member of the Brattleboro Lodge # 102 F&AM, member of King Solomon Chapter 7, Barre Council #22, Knight Templar, Mt Zion #9 Commandary and part-time grand commander of VT of Knights Templar. Scottish Rite Valley of Montpelier, Red Cross of Constantine and was a past grand Sovereign in 1995 of VT, Green Mt York Rite Council, Past Grand Master of Grand Council of VT. Past member of Rob Morris Chapter #24 of Eastern Star Montpelier where he also was Worthy Patron for 2 years and Associate Worthy Patron for 2 years. Mt Sinai Shrine #3 Montpelier. In 1979 he was Conferred the Order of the Purple Cross for Meritorious service to the York Rite Masonic Order
He served his community as Alderman and President of the Montpelier City Council, Member and Chairman of the Montpelier School Board, and member and Past President of the Central VT Community Action Council. He was a former member and President of the Montpelier Square Dance Club.
He was a member of the Bethany United Church of Christ where he served on the missions Board of Directors and as a Deacon. In 1976 he founded the Bible Fund in Memory of his wife so every child that joined Bethany would receive a Bible in her memory.
He married the former Gladys V. Jackson in 1949. She died in 1976. From this union they were blessed with 6 children that survive him. Roy A. Nicholson and his wife Loretta of Scottsdale, AZ. Anne Hiserodt and her husband Bill of Denver, CO, Peter Nicholson and his wife Elizabeth of Barre Town, Barbara Norkeveck and her husband Brian of Barre, Mark Nicholson and his wife Robin of Barre, and Sandra Wallace and her husband Robert of Hyde Park. Eight grandchildren Katie-Lyn Olmstead of Barre, Lannin Norkeveck of Barre, Allen Hiserodt of Denver, CO, Heather Nicholson of Boston, MA, Robert Wallace Jr. of Hyde Park, VT, Lauren Wallace of Hyde Park, VT, Braden Nicholson of Indianapolis, IN, and Carrie Nicholson of Scotsdale, AZ. Two brothers, Glenn Nicholson and his wife Mae of Montpelier and Paul Nicholson and his wife Evelyna of Fredericton, New Brunswick, Canada. Two sisters Joyce Ernat of Paso Robles , CA, Donna Cooper and her husband David of Oromocto, New Brunswick. A sister Marion Davey predeceased him.
Calling Hours will be Tuesday evening from 7-9 PM at Barber & Lanier, 139 Main Street, Montpelier with a Masonic Service at 7:30 PM. A Memorial Service will be held Wednesday October 8, 2003 at 11:00 AM at Bethany United Church of Christ, 115 Main Street Montpelier, VT.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Montpelier Foundation, P.O. Box 1455, Montpelier, VT 05601.
Betty Rogers
BRADFORD - Funeral services for Betty Rogers, 87, who died Sept. 24 at Cottage Hospital in Woodsville, N.H., were held Oct. 4, 2003 in the Upper Plain Cemetery Bradford. The Rev. Harley Bartlett of the Bradford United Church of Christ officiated.
Arrangements are under the direction of the Hale Funeral Home of Bradford.
Michael Burbank
BARRE TOWN - The graveside service for Michael W. Burbank, 50, of West Cobble Hill Road, who died Sept. 24, 2003, was held on Tuesday at the Plains Cemetery in Morristown. The Rev. Patricia Thompson officiated. Poems were read by Rev. Thompson and granddaughters, Andrea Monahan and Samantha Eldred. Military rites were accorded the deceased by members of the 1st Battalion 172nd Armor of Vermont Army National Guard. 1st Sgt. Jon Ramey presented the flag to granddaughter, Samantha Eldred. Other members included Sgt. 1st Class Mark Churchill, Staff Sgt. Eric Britton, Staff Sgt. Kevin Diette, Staff Sgt. Derek Lunna, Staff Sgt. Christopher Rondeau, and Sgt. Francis Lewis. The Hooker and Whitcomb Funeral Home was in charge of the arrangements.
Robert J. Churchill
BROOKFIELD - Robert J. Churchill, 85, of Brookfield, died Friday morning, October 3, 2003, at his home in Brookfield. He was born April 27, 1918 in Canaan, VT the son of F. Elwin and Matie (Chamberlain) Churchill. He attended Morrisville schools and graduated from Peoples Academy. He continued his education graduating from Vermont School of Agriculture (now Vermont Technical College) in Randolph Center in 1936. He remained there as a herdsman until 1943. He married Margaret Temple May 10, 1939 in Morrisville. The Churchills bought Happy Hill Farm in Brookfield in 1943 and have milked Jerseys there for the past 60 years. Mr. Churchill served as a Town Lister for Brookfield for several years. He was a delegate and on the sire committee for Eastern AI (now Genex), member and past president of the Central VT DHIA, director and member of Windsor County Feeds, Agway committeeman, past member of the Brookfield Masons, past committeeman and member of the county committee for ACP (now Farm Service Agency), member, past president and treasurer of the VT Jersey Breeders, member and past president of the New England and American Jersey Cattle Club and member of the Orange County Sugarmakers. He is survived by his wife of 67 years, Margaret Churchill of Brookfield; 2 sons, Allan and wife Nancy Churchill of Chester, and Ray and wife Lora of Brookfield; two daughters, Mary and husband Ray Doyle of Salisbury, and Alice and husband Richard Kempfe of Willoughby, OH; a brother Charles Churchill of Brookfield; 10 grandchildren; and several great-grandchildren. He was predeceased by a sister Christina Hart. Funeral services will be held Tuesday, October 7, 11:00 AM at the Day Funeral Home with Rev. Ronald Rilling officiating. Burial will be in the Brookfield Center Cemetery. There are no calling hours. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to: VTC Family Farming Fund Scholarship c/o Vermont Technical College, Randolph Ctr., VT 05061. Arrangements are under the direction of the Day Funeral Home, Randolph.
Edward R. 'Bob' Mattson
BETHEL - Edward R. Mattson, 73, of Bethel, died Thursday at Gifford Medical Center in Randolph. He was born May 28, 1930, in Boston, the son of Gustaf and Karolina (Carlson) Mattson. He graduated from Boston English High School and then attended the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy at King¡¦s Point, Long Island, N.Y. During the Korean War he served in the U.S. Navy. After his discharge, he went to M.I.T. in Cambridge, Mass., where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree. Following his education he worked for the Electronic Boat Division of General Dynamics Corp. in Groton, Conn. He then attended both Westinghouse and General Electric¡¦s Nuclear Propulsion schools. He received an MBA from the University of New Haven. He was a professional licensed engineer in Connecticut, retiring in 1989. He married Jeanne French Dec. 23, 1961, in Ivoryton, Conn. The Mattsons lived in Old Saybrook, Conn., from 1965 until moving to Bethel in 1994. Bob loved reading, model ship building, and history. He was active in the Bethel Food Shelf, Habitat for Humanity, and the Civil War Roundtable. He was also a member of the Bethel Historical Society. Surviving are his wife Jeanne Matson of Bethel; two sons, Erik Mattson of Woburn, Mass., and Rudi Mattson of Randolph; a niece and nephew; and a great-niece and great-nephew. He was predeceased by a brother and a sister. Funeral services will be held 1 p.m. Monday at St. John¡¦s Episcopal Church in Randolph, with Rev. Timothy Eberthardt officiating. Burial will be in the Bethel Gilead Cemetery. Calling hours will be 7 to 8 p.m. Sunday at the Day Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, contributions in his memory may be made to either the Clara Martin Center, P.O. Box G, Randolph, VT 05060, or to the Central Vermont Humane Society, P.O. Box 687, Montpelier, VT 05601. Arrangements are under the direction of the Day Funeral Home in Randolph.
Iride J. Peck
MONTPELIER - Iride J. Peck of Montpelier died Wednesday at the Woodridge Nursing Home in Berlin. She was born Jan. 15, 1924, in Bisuschio, Italy, the daughter of Carlo and Esther (De Chichio) Falacci. She graduated from Montpelier High School and went on to earn degrees from Vermont College and the Chandler School in Boston. She worked as a medical secretary in Boston. After returning to Montpelier, she worked for the Union Mutual Insurance Company. In May of 1952 she married Louis P. Peck of Montpelier. She was a homemaker and did volunteer work for local libraries. Survivors include her husband; daughters, Katherine, Barbara, and Nancy; and a brother, Frank Falacci of Boston. A funeral service will be held Wednesday at 1 p.m. at Guare & Sons Funeral Home in Montpelier. In lieu of flowers, please send contributions to the Salvation Army, 25 Keith Ave., Barre, VT 05641, or the Alzheimer¡¦s Association, P.O. Box 1139 Montpelier, VT 05602.
Lucy A. Button
CHELSEA - Lucy A. Button, 57, died at her home Tuesday morning from cancer. She was born Sept. 18, 1946 in Milford, Conn., the daughter of Stanley E. and Nora B. (Kapusta) McCullough. She attended school in Milford, graduating in 1964 from Milford High School. She also attended the University of Connecticut. On Nov. 6, 1971 she married John H. Button of Chelsea. They lived most of their married life in Chelsea, except for twelve years when they moved across the town line into Tunbridge. In 1995 they moved into their present home, which they built on Bobbinshop Road. Lucy helped her husband operate their dairy farm in Chelsea for many years. She also served two terms as a lister for the town of Tunbridge, served on the Chelsea School Board and was a Chelsea Public Library trustee and volunteer. She enjoyed training harness race horses, cooking, reading, quilting, and flower gardening. She especially loved to spend time with her family, friends, and animals. She is survived by her husband of Chelsea; her mother, Nora McCullough of Milford, Conn.; two sisters, Margie McCullough of Muscatine, Iowa, and Jennie Ganter of Redding, Conn.; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins. She was predeceased by her father, Stanley E. McCullough. There are no public calling hours. A memorial service will be held Saturday at 2 p.m, at the United Church of Chelsea with the Rev. David L. Wolfe and Rev. David E. Smith officiating. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the Chelsea Public Library, P.O. Box 67, Chelsea, VT 05038. Arrangements are under the direction of the Boardway & Cilley Funeral Home of Chelsea.
Edith O. Parker
VERSHIRE - Edith O. Parker, 78, died Saturday at the Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center in Lebanon, N.H. She was born Aug. 21, 1925 in Vershire, the daughter of Hugh B. and Claudia (Button) O¡¦Donnell Sr. Edith attended grade school in Vershire and graduated from high school in Thetford. Following her education she returned home to help on the family farm and for a time worked for L.B. Bowen in Tunbridge. On June 28, 1947 she married Howard Francis Parker. They bought their home in Vershire, where she currently lived, in 1950. They raised four children. Edith was the custodian at the Vershire Elementary School for over twenty years. Mr. Parker died Jan. 2, 2000. Edith and Howard danced with the Connecticut Valley Swingers in Bradford for six years and with the Ed Larkin Contra Dancers from 1986-1996. She enjoyed all kinds of crafts, especially making Christmas wreaths. Edith also enjoyed working on her home, painting and wall papering as well as tending to her flowers and vegetable gardens. She could have been a forester because she loved to plant trees, watch them grow, cut them down and start all over again. Out of all her interests, she loved spending time with her children and grandchildren most of all. She is survived by her daughter, Cherly M.P. Willey of Vershire; three sons, Dawin H. Parker of Washington, Malcolm F. Parker of Fairlee, and Wesley M. Parker of Vershire; twelve grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; three brothers, Hugh B. O¡¦Donnell Jr. of Lyme, N.H., Leo O¡¦Donnell of Bradford, James O¡¦Donnell of Fairlee; four sisters, Mabel Pushee of Lyme, N.H., Elsie Cilley of West Topsham, Lois Covey of Corinth, Gloria Morey of Boston, Mass.; and several nieces and nephews. A graveside memorial service will be held Saturday at 1 p.m. in the Village Cemetery in Vershire, with the Rev. Louis Maxfield officiating. Memorial contributions may be made to your local affiliate of the Red Cross. Arrangements are under the direction of the Boardway & Cilley Funeral Home in Chelsea.
Aurelia Pellegrini
BARRE - Aurelia R. 'Rae' Pellegrini, 84, of Woodland Drive, died Sept. 26, 2003 at the Wood Ridge Nursing Home in Berlin, surrounded by her family. She had been a resident there for more than five years and was lovingly cared for. She was born Aug. 22, 1919, in Montpelier, daughter of Pedro and Fulgencia (Abascal) Ruiz. She attended Barre schools. On March 22, 1947, she married Dino Pellegrini in Barre, where they have since resided. Prior to her marriage, she had worked at Fishman¡¦s and the Grand City Creamery. She enjoyed traveling, baking, sewing, knitting, crocheting, and was an active volunteer in her community for the Red Cross and North Barre and Lincoln School PTA. She was a member of Barre American Legion Unit #10, the Church Women United, The Barre Women¡¦s Club, The Barre City Hospital Auxiliary and had worked at the polls at Barre City elections for many years. She had been a member of the Barre Universalist Church and the Association of Universalist Women. Besides her husband, she leaves a daughter, Louisa Neveau of Barre; a son, John Pellegrini and his wife, Becky, of Orange; two grandchildren, Aimee Rae Neveau and Brian Pellegrini; a sister, Thea Green, in Wisconsin; and several nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by a brother, Floreal 'Jimmy' Ruiz and two sisters, Palmira Ruiz and Bella MacCormack. Her funeral will be held Friday at 11 a.m. in the Hooker and Whitcomb Funeral Home. Burial will follow in the Hope Cemetery. Friends may call at the funeral home on Thursday from 7 -9 p.m. Memorial contributions may be made to the Patient Activity Fund - Woodridge Nursing Home, P.O. Box 550, Barre 05641, or to the Vermont - New Hampshire Chapter of the Alzheimer¡¦s Assn., 10 Ferry Street, Suite 421 B Concord, N.H. 03301-5004.
George Edward Rowley
WASHINGTON - George Edward Rowley, 84, of MacDonald Road, died Friday, September 12, 2003, at the Rowan Court Health and Rehabilitation Center in Barre. Born November 22, 1918, in Portsmouth, Va., he was the son of James Edward and Zolikoffer (Zella) Roberson Rowley. He graduated from Craddock High School in Portsmouth and attended the Virginia Military Institute in Lexington before joining the US Navy in March 1938. Mr. Rowley was assigned to the Navy Submarine Base in New London, Conn. in May 1940, and was aboard the U.S.S. Tautog at Pearl Harbor when it was attacked on December 7, 1941. He also served on the U.S.S. Puffer, Tench, Red Fish and Drum in the South Pacific and Western Australia prior to his discharge as a Chief Petty Officer on December 9, 1945. He worked for the Curtis Bay Towing Company and the Newport New Shipbuilding and Dry Dock Company in Virginia. He retired from the Norfolk Navy Shipyard in Portsmouth, Va. in March 1973 and moved to Washington, Vt. in September 1992. He was a licensed aircraft pilot and chief engineer of motorized marine vessels. He belonged to the Pearl Harbor Survivors Association and the U.S. Submarine Veterans of World War II. Mr. Rowley was preceded in death by his wives, Cordelia Belew Rowley Lonas, whom he married on April 22, 1944, and Carol Parker Orme Rowley, whom he married on March 19, 1949; his brother, Frank Gatti; his sisters Amelia G. McLean and Alma G. Bradford; and his parents. He is survived by his daughters, Karen Rowley West of Dublin, Ga., and Jean Rowley Ellestad of Frankfort, Ky.; a stepson, Mark Orme of Leesburg, Fla., who lived and cared for him in the six years prior to his death; his grandchildren, David Edward Ellestead and Karen Elizabeth Ellestead of Frankfort, Ky.; and devoted family friends, Phyllis B. Paquet and Cheryl, Michael, Jim and David Buzzi, all of Barre. Services were held Sunday, Sept. 14 at 3:00 p.m. at the Rowan Court Health and Rehabilitation Center in Barre. Interment
was at the Maple Hill Cemetery in Washington on Monday, Sept. 15 at 2:00 p.m. Contributions in his memory may be made to the Children¡¦s Day Care Center or the Patient Activities Fund, Rowan Court Health and Rehabilitation Center, 378 Prospect Street, Barre, VT 05641. The Hooker and Whitcomb Funeral Home, 7 Academy Street, Barre, is in charge of arrangements.
Ruth Elizabeth Yaeger
BARRE - Ruth Elizabeth Yaeger, 92, of Fort Collins, died Sunday, September 28 at the Hospice Lifecentre in Columbine Care West. A mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Saturday, October 4 at 12 noon at St. Joseph Catholic Church. Lunch will be served after the mass at the church. Internment will be in Hope Cemetery in Barre, Vermont. Ruth Elizabeth Yaeger was born December 16, 1910 in Minneapolis, MN to Frank and Nellie Mae Cogswell Gilland. She graduated from Roosevelt High School in Minneapolis in 1928. She attended St. Cloud University in St. Cloud, MN where she met her husband, Alfred B. Yaeger. They were married at the St. Agnes Church in Cleveland, OH in 1933. They moved to Barre, VT in 1936 where they resided until 1977 when they retired to Green Valley, AZ. In 1997 they moved to Fort Collins. Survivors include a son, W. Patrick and his wife Marie Yaeger of N. Middlesex, VT; two daughters, Susan and her husband Vernon Dyke of Windsor, CO, and Ruthann Yaeger of Rochester, MN; seven grandchildren, Catherine and her husband Jed Gilmore, Peter and wife Annette Dyke, Stephen and wife Susanne Dyke, Mary Yaeger, Anne and her husband Gilbert Skinner, Patrick Yaeger, and Joseph Yeager; and six great-grandchildren. She was predeceased in death by her husband of 66 years, Alfred; her parents; and two brothers. Ruth enjoyed sewing, knitting, crocheting, and reading. In every community she lived in she crocheted caps and receiving blankets for newborns in hospitals. She will be remembered as an example of how to age gracefully with dignity and unfailing good humor. In her last years, to all whom came to visit she shared stories of her life and always as they left she would say, 'you have made my day!' Her family will miss her dearly and would like to extend our heartfelt thanks and appreciation for the wonderful caregivers at New Mercer Commons and Hospice who enriched her life and ours. A memorial contribution may be made to the United Way of Larimer County, in care of Bohlander Funeral Chapel, 121 W. Olive St., Fort Collins, CO 80524.
Betty Rogers
BRADFORD - Funeral services for Betty Rogers, 87, of Bradford who died Sept. 24, 2003, at Cottage Hospital, will be held Saturday at 1 p.m. in the Upper Plain Cemetery in Bradford. Arrangements are under the direction of Hale Funeral Homes of Bradford and Thetford.
Lucy A. Button
CHELSEA - Lucy A. Button, 57, died at her home Sept. 30, 2003, after a courageous battle with cancer.
Arrangements are pending at the Boardway & Cilley Funeral Home, Main Street, Chelsea.
Eleanor M. Campagnari
BARRE - Eleanor M. Campagnari, 81, of Barre, died Sept. 24, 2003, at the Woodridge Nursing Home in Berlin.
She was born March 5, 1922, in Barre.
She was a graduate of Spaulding High School in Barre.
Ms. Campagnari worked for two years in Washington, D.C., a year at National Life in Montpelier and over 30 years at the Barre City clerk's office.
Survivors include a sister, Olga Venner; and many nieces and nephews.
She was predeceased by four sisters, Louise Naddeo, Ada Flint, Norma Horsfall and Sally Simoneau; and one brother, Americo Campagnari.
A private graveside service was held Tuesday.
Arrangements are by Hooker and Whitcomb Funeral Home in Barre.
Elizabeth "Lisa" Kim Springer
MANCHESTER, N.H. - Elizabeth "Lisa" Kim Springer, 35, of Manchester, N.H., died unexpectedly Sept. 27, 2003, at her home.
She was born Oct. 5, 1967, in Seoul, Korea, named Jung Sun Kim. She was adopted by Stephen and Barbara Springer of Randolph Center in January 1973.
Known as Lisa, she attended elementary school in Randolph, junior high school at St. Monica School in Barre and high school at Randolph Union High School in Randolph and Rock Point School in Burlington. She earned her graduate equivalency degree after leaving Rock Point School.
Ms. Kim Springer lived in Burlington, West Lebanon, N.H., and then Manchester, N.H., for the past 10 years.
She was a wait staff person at the Red Arrow Diner in Manchester, N.H., and enjoyed traveling and visiting her family.
Survivors include her parents; brothers, Philip Springer of San Francisco, Calif., and John Springer of Burlington; a grandfather, Raymond E. Wilcox Sr., of Alford, Mass.; and a uncle, Raymond E. Wilcox Jr., also of Alford, Mass.
Funeral services will be held Saturday at 3 p.m. at St. John's Episcopal Church in Randolph with the Rev. Timothy Eberhardt officiating.
Calling hours will be Saturday from 1 to 2:30 p.m. at the Day Funeral Home in Randolph.
Memorial services in Manchester, N.H., will be announced at a later date. Burial will be at the convenience of the family at Alford Cemetery in Alford, Mass.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to REECH, P.O. Box 303, Randolph, VT 05060, or the Randolph Area Food Shelf, P.O. Box 202, Randolph, VT 05060.
Arrangements are by Day Funeral Home.
Aurelia Pellegrini
BARRE - Aurelia R. "Rae" Pellegrini, 84, of Woodland Drive, died Sept. 26, 2003 at the Wood Ridge Nursing Home in Berlin, surrounded by her family. She had been a resident there for more than five years and was lovingly cared for.
She was born Aug. 22, 1919, in Montpelier, daughter of Pedro and Fulgencia (Abascal) Ruiz. She attended Barre schools.
On March 22, 1947, she married Dino Pellegrini in Barre, where they have since resided.
Prior to her marriage, she had worked at Fishman's and the Grand City Creamery.
She enjoyed traveling, baking, sewing, knitting, crocheting, and was an active volunteer in her community for the Red Cross and North Barre and Lincoln School PTA.
She was a member of Barre American Legion Unit #10, the Church Women United, The Barre Women's Club, The Barre City Hospital Auxiliary and had worked at the polls at Barre City elections for many years. She had been a member of the Barre Universalist Church and the Association of Universalist Women.
Besides her husband, she leaves a daughter, Louisa Neveau of Barre; a son, John Pellegrini and his wife, Becky, of Orange; two grandchildren, Aimee Rae Neveau and Brian Pellegrini; a sister, Thea Green, in Wisconsin; and several nieces and nephews.
She was predeceased by a brother, Floreal "Jimmy" Ruiz and two sisters, Palmira Ruiz and Bella MacCormack.
Her funeral will be held Friday at 11 a.m. in the Hooker and Whitcomb Funeral Home. Burial will follow in the Hope Cemetery. Friends may call at the funeral home on Thursday from 7 -9 p.m. Memorial contributions may be made to the Patient Activity Fund - Woodridge Nursing Home, P.O. Box 550, Barre 05641, or to the Vermont - New Hampshire Chapter of the Alzheimer's Assn., 10 Ferry Street, Suite 421 B Concord, N.H. 03301-5004.
Virginia D. "Dickie" Whitney
LEBANON, N.H. - Virginia D. "Dickie" Whitney, 75, of West Braintree, died Friday at the Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center.
She was born Sept. 30, 1927 in Concord, Mass; the daughter of Fred and Elmire (Nadeau) Dickinson. She grew up in Roxbury and graduated from Randolph High School in 1946. She was a lifetime area resident settling in West Braintree in 1964. She was married to Merrill Whitney in Bethel on May 29, 1947. Dickie had worked at Hayward's Diner; as a bookkeeper for Allen's Garage, and operated "The Spot" ice cream parlor with her husband, all in Randolph. She had been a seamstress at Van Raalte, worked at Waterbury Companies, and had been a cook at the Randolph Senior Center. She was also a self-employed professional seamstress. Dickie enjoyed knitting, crocheting, cooking and canning.
She is survived by her husband, Merrill, of West Braintree; sons Andrew Whitney of Brookfield, and Leigh Whitney of Grafton, N.H.; daughter Shirley Foley of West Rutland; sisters Genevieve Garafolo of Meriden, Conn.; Linda White of Randolph Center and Sandra White of Randolph; five grandchildren; six great-grandchildren and special friend Beverly Whitcomb of West Braintree. She was predeceased by her sister, Eveatte Hull.
Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Wednesday, Oct. 1 at the Day Funeral Home in Randolph with Rev. Jerry Smith officiating. Burial will follow at the Vermont Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Randolph Center. Calling hours will be from 7-8 p.m. Tuesday at the funeral home. Contributions in her memory may be made to the Randolph Senior Center, 6 Hale Street, Randolph, VT 05060, or to a charity of your choice.
Robert P. Abbiati Rites
BARRE - A service of remembrance was held Saturday at 1 p.m. in the Hooker and Whitcomb Funeral Home for Robert P. Abbiati of Orange Street, who died Sept. 21 at the Woodridge Nursing Home in Berlin.
Mario Barberi, longtime friend and classmate, led the service. The Barre Tones sang "In the Mood" and "Sentimental Journey". Words of remembrance were offered by daughters Carol Barry and Donna Booth and grandchildren Sarah and Matthew Metcalf and Kaitlin Barry.
The flag was presented to his wife, Avelina Abbiati, by Bruce Judd. Grandsons Anthony and Robert Booth played "Anchors Away" on the trombone following the flag ceremony. Fellowship and luncheon followed at the Steakhouse Restaurant.
Lois A. Berk Rites
BARRE - A service of remembrance was held Thursday in the Hooker and Whitcomb Funeral Home for Lois A. Berk, of Arioli Avenue, who died Sept. 19 at Central Vermont Medical Center in Berlin.
The Rev. Richard Forcier, pastor of the Barre Universalist Church officiated. Words of remembrance were offered by her sister, Hillery Durochia and Walter Ward, Diane Thompson and Kevin O'Riordan. Meg Bardossi was eulogist. Soloist Judy Cookson sang "The 23rd Psalm."
A reception followed at Grand View Avenue in Barre.
Violet E. Gosselin Rites
BARRE CITY - A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated Friday, Sept. 26, 2003 at 11 a.m. in St. Monica Church, in Barre, for Violet E. Gosselin of 41 Maple Avenue who passed away on September 22, 2003 at Central Vermont Medical Center in Berlin, Vt.
Rev. Peter Routhier, Pastor of the Church, was the celebrant. Crucifer, Albert Gagnon was altar server and led the Prayer of the Faithful.
Assisting as Eucharistic Minister was Sr. Theresa Ste. Marie, R.S.M.
Organist Angeline Ennis accompanied soloists, Rita Laperle and Romeo Bilodeau in the hymns, "Amazing Grace," "My Soul Is Longing," "I'll Never Walk Alone," "J'irai La Voir Un Jour" and "One Day At A Time."
The Old Testament reading was given by granddaughter, Michelle Gosselin and Janson Gosselin, grandson, read from the New Testament.
Offertory gifts were presented at the altar by Lynn Winters and Kristen Montgomery, both granddaughters and Christopher Day, grandson.
Reflections were offered by Emile Gosselin and Andre Gosselin, both sons and Shawn Foran, a friend.
Active bearers were, Julienne Austin, a daughter; Robert Gosselin, Andre Gosselin, Emile Gosselin, Benny Gosselin all sons and Brenda Gosselin, a daughter-in-law.
A Prayer Service was held Thursday evening at the Pruneau-Polli Funeral, in Barre, and was led by Father Routhier, also Rodney Day, a grandson, read a poem.
A later burial will be in Hope Cemetery in Barre.
Following the service a fellowship luncheon was held at the Barre Elks Lodge # 1535.
Services were in the care of the Pruneau-Polli Funeral Home 58 Summer St., Barre, Vt.
Michael W. Burbank
BARRE TOWN - Michael W. Burbank, 50, of Barre Town died Wednesday, Sept. 24, 2003, at the home of his daughter.
He was born March 20, 1953 in Baltimore, Md. and attended schools in Baltimore. During the Vietnam War, he served in the US Army.
In Clearwater, Fla., he married Shelia Woodard. They made their home in Largo, Fla., before moving to Vermont in August of 2002. His wife died on September 18, 2002.
While in Florida, he worked as a mechanic, a commercial deep sea fisherman, and a mason until his retirement.
He is survived by his children, Tina Eldred of Barre Town, Steven Eldred of Barre and Heather Eldred of Hardwick; seven grandchildren; nieces and nephews.
A graveside service will be held Sept. 30, 2003 at 11 a.m. in the Plains Cemetery in Morristown. There are no calling hours.
The Hooker and Whitcomb Funeral Home, 7 Academy St., Barre is in charge of arrangements.
John R. Davis
FAIRLEE - John R. Davis, 58 of Route 5 in Fairlee died Friday at Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center in Lebanon, N.H.
He was born Dec. 20, 1944 in Brockton, Mass., the son of Robert C. and Frances L. (Hunt) Davis. As a young child, his family moved from Massachusetts to Mt. Cube in Orford, N.H. After graduating in 1962 from Orford High School, he attended New Hampshire Technical College in Manchester, N.H. where he studied electronics.
In 1964 he joined the Army National Guard at Bradford, and was trained at Fort Dix.
On Oct. 3, 1965 in Warren, N.H. he married Barbara Bushaw. They made their home in Orford, moving to Fairlee in 1966.
John was employed as an electrician with Reg Davis in Fairlee. In 1968, he began work for Frank Cody Electrical Contractors in Lebanon, and worked as chief electrician on commercial projects throughout Vermont.
On April 1, 1973 he opened his own electrical contracting business, JD Electric in Fairlee.
He enjoyed playing with his grandchildren, golfing, attending auctions where he searched for trains and toys for his grandchildren, and trips to Las Vegas. He and his wife enjoyed draft horses, and horse racing at Saratoga, N.Y. and Fryeburg, Maine.
He was a former Fairlee schoolboard member, and often organized fundraisers to support scholarships for local students. Other memberships include the Hartford Elks Club, the Veterans of Foreign Wars in White River, Jct., and the American Legion in Lebanon, N.H.
Survivors include his wife, Barbara Davis of Fairlee; a daughter, Susan Welsh of Nottingham; three sons: Benjamin of Tampa, Fla.; Robert of Wilder; and Andrew of Thetford; six grandchildren; his father of Sarasota, Fla.; a sister, Nancy Whittiker of Spencer, Mass.; a brother, William Davis of Vero Beach, Fla.; several nieces and nephews; one aunt and two uncles.
Funeral services and burial will be at the convenience of the family in Warren, N.H.
Friends are invited to a reception Wednesday afternoon from 1 to 3 p.m. at Lake Morey Resort in Fairlee. Donations in John's memory may be made to the John R. Davis Scholarship Fund, Rivendell Academy, Orford, N.H. 03777.
Arrangements are by Hale Funeral Homes of Bradford and Thetford.
Raymond Michael Kevra
MONTPELIER — Raymond Michael Kevra, 79, of Montpelier, died Sept. 24, 2003, in Berlin after a long illness.
He was born in 1924 in Duryea, Pa., the son of Joseph Kevra and Domicella Savage.
He was valedictorian of his high school class and graduated with honors from Penn State. He served in the Army during World War II.
He married Mary Anne Janho in New Jersey in 1956.
Mr. Kevra worked as an electrical engineer for the U.S. government. He was lauded for his contributions to national security by Presidents Truman and Carter.
Survivors include his daughters, Nola Kevra of Ripton, Susan Kevra of Nashville, Tenn., and Karen Kevra of Montpelier; one brother, Frank Kevra of Orange, Fla.; and one sister, Ann Greco of Duryea, Pa.
Max Taffel
BARRE - Max Taffel, 94, died September 19, 2003, at the Yale New Haven Hospital, where he had been a surgeon for 46 years. He was a graduate of the College of the City of New York and the Yale School of Medicine, 1931. He received the Bronze Star Medal for meritorious service as the only neurosurgeon on the island of Saipan from 27 January 1945 to 1 August 1945, during the period of the Iwo Jima and Okinawa campaigns. Dr. Taffel's lifetime goals were "to be an honest surgeon and a devoted father, to instill the love of learning into the hearts and minds of all the young people with whom he came into contact, and to do harm to no one." He is survived by his wife of 59 years, Helen Southon Taffel; sons, James of Barre, VT, William of Tokyo, Japan, and David of Watertown, MA; and daughters, Ann Hutchings of Anchorage, AK; Margaret Hodge of Belvidere, IL, and Sarah Taffel of Wilton, CT. He is also survived by 15 grandchildren. He was predeceased by his daughter Katherine Ellen Taffel. There will be no visiting hours. A family service will be celebrated at a future date. Gifts in his memory may be sent to the Katherine Taffel Scholarship Fund at The Neighborhood Music School, 100 Audubon St, New Haven, CT 06510.
Gloria L. Wheeler
WEST TOPSHAM - Gloria L. Wheeler, 71, of U.S. Route 302, died Thursday, September 25, 2003, in the Central Vermont Medical Center in Berlin.
Born July 12, 1932 in Fayston, she was the daughter of Frank and Margaret Marion (Shaw) Weston. She attended elementary schools in Fayston and Warren and graduated from Waitsfield High School in 1951.
On June 15, 1951, she married Herbert James Wheeler Jr. in Waitsfield. They made their home in the Central Vermont Area before moving to VT Route 25 in West Topsham in 1975 and then to their present home in 1989.
Gloria was a homemaker and had worked at the former O J's store in Orange. She enjoyed time spent with her family and grandchildren. Her other interests were crafting quilting, reading, and traveling.
Survivors include her husband, Herbert of West Topsham; three daughters, Jenny Lamoureux and her husband, Don of Newport News, VA, Janice Alexander and her husband J R of Barre, and Gina Kellerup and her husband, Corey of Newport News, VA; six grandchildren, Timothy Wheeler, Jeff Perkins (and his wife Samantha), Niki Perkins, Gage Perkins, Justin Kellerup, and Lydia Perkins; two sisters, Edna Nolin of Stowe and Avis Gauthier and her husband, John of Graniteville; a brother, Norris Weston and his wife, Marlen of Warren; nieces and nephews.
Two brothers, Norman Weston and Raemon Weston predeceased her.
A graveside service will be held on Saturday at 1:00 p.m. in the Brook Haven Cemetery in Orange. The Rev. Richard Forcier, pastor of the Barre Universalist Church, will officiate. There are no calling hours.
Contributions in her memory may be made to the West Topsham Fire Department, c/o Ed Downing, Topsham, 05086.
The Hooker and Whitcomb Funeral Home, 7 Academy Street, Barre, is in charge of arrangements.
Harry P. Bonazzoli
BARRE - Harry P. Bonazzoli, 86, died Thursday evening, September 18, 2003, at his home, Lincoln House, 120 Hill Street, Barre, Vermont. Family and friends were at his side.
He was born August 20, 1917 in Barre, son of Angelo and Maria Bonazzoli. He attended Spaulding High School and graduated from LaSalle University with a major in business transportation. He was associated throughout his life with the granite industry and worked for the Barre and Chelsea Railroad, the Barre Granite Association and was General Manager at Granite Center Delivery until he retired. After his retirement he was associated with Green Mountain Lincoln Mercury.
On January 20, 1944, he married Mary Ann Pape. They were married 40 years and always resided in Barre. They were long time residents of Academy Street. She died August 4, 1984.
Mr. Bonazzoli was civic minded and served as the alderman in Ward Two for several years. He was also involved in and avidly supported youth sports and youth activities. He committed himself to living and working in the City of Barre and staunchly believed in the community and its traditions.
He was a life member of the Mutuo, Inc. and the Barre Elks Lodge #1535.
He is survived by three daughters; Maria Bourne, Wytheville, VA; Harriet Davis, Montpelier, VT; and Debra Bonazzoli, Brandon, VT. He has four grandsons; Jason Davis, Rochester, MI., Jeffrey Bourne, Richmond VA., Timothy Davis, Park City, UT., and Justin Bourne, Raleigh, N.C., He has one great grandson, Jacob, who resides in Rochester, MI with his parents. He was predeceased by two sisters, Alma and Vemis Bonazzoli.
Calling hours will be from 5 to 7 p.m. on Tuesday, September 23, 2003 at the Hooker-Whitcomb Funeral Home, 7 Academy St., Barre, Vt. A memorial service will be held on Wednesday, September 24, 2003, at 1 p.m. at the funeral home. Interment
will be at the Hope Cemetery directly following the memorial service.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Lincoln House, 120 Hill St., Barre, VT 05641.
Harry P. Bonazzoli
BARRE - Funeral Services for Harry P. Bonazzoli of the Lincoln House who died Sept. 18, 2003 at his home, were held Wednesday at 1 p.m. in the Hooker and Whitcomb Funeral Home, 7 Academy St., Barre.
Linda Piotrowski, Chaplain at the Central Vermont Hospital, officiated. Words of Remembrance were offered by longtime family friend, Larry Reilly. Grandsons Jason and Timothy Davis and Justin and Jeffrey Bourne offered reflections. His daughter Harriet Davis, spoke for the Bonazzoli family.
Son in law John Bourne sang "Let Me Touch Him" and "The Milky White Way."
The honorary bearers were Louis Frattini, Angelo Ambrosini, Manuel Carcoba, Virgilio Bonacorsi, Robert Barberi and Arthur Ristau, all from the Mutuo Inc.
The active bearers were his grandchildren; Jason and Kim Davis, Timothy Davis, Jeffrey and Anedra Bourne and Justin Bourne. Burial was made at the Hope Cemetery.
