NEKG - 2003 Obituaries

, 83, passed away Friday, Oct. 31, 2003, surrounded by his family at his home in Middlebury. Vernon was born in Barre, Vt., March 5, 1920, the son of Otto S. and Lucy (Willet) George. Mr. George graduated from Spaulding High School in 1938 and the Brattleboro School of Business in 1940. He proudly served in the U.S. Army Air Corp during World War II. Upon returning home he began work with the Vermont State Police, a member of the first graduating class in 1947. He later transferred to the Department of Motor Vehicles and worked as a district inspector in St. Johnsbury until his retirement in 1975. Mr. George is survived by his wife of 55 years, Pauline; two sons, Dean and his wife Alice George of Middlebury, and Leonard and his wife Debra George of Newport, Vt.; two daughters, Deanne and her husband John Hentrich of San Diego, and Leanne and her husband 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; seven grandchildren, Dean, Rebecca, Talia, Benjamin, John, Katie and Michael; and three great-grandchildren, Jordan, Macayla and Elyssa. Mr. George was preceded in death by his parents; and three brothers, Stephen, Russell and Rupert George. A Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated Monday at 11 a.m. in St. Mary's Church, Middlebury. Celebrant will be Father Justin Baker, pastor. Graveside committal services and burial will be in St. Sylvester Cemetery, Barre, at a later date.

, 74, Hardwick, passed away suddenly on Friday, Oct. 31, 2003, surrounded by the family that she loved so dearly. Beatrice was born July 31, 1929, in Landaff, N.H. She was the daughter of the late Harold M. and Myrtle (McGuire) Keough. She attended school in both Bradford and Hardwick. Bea was the beloved wife of Bernard Arthur Smith. They were united in marriage on Aug. 21, 1946. In Bea's early years she was employed by Hardwick Elementary and Hazen Union School in their lunch program. She worked for Hardwick Plastics and enjoyed several years of caring for children in her home. She was a member of the United Church of Hardwick and the women's Fellowship. She served as 4-H leader assisting in the cooking program. Bea was an avid reader. She loved to cook, sew and crochet. Bea was a wonderful family-minded lady, loving wife and mother. She served her family well. Beatrice is survived by her beloved husband of 57 years, Bernard; her much loved daughters and their husbands and families: Sheila Fuller and her husband Lester, Linda Bellavance and her husband Ronald, Doreen Grover and her companion Donny Cota, all of Hardwick, and Debra Daley and her husband James of Woodbury; 11 brothers and sisters; eight grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; several nieces, nephews and cousins. She was predeceased by one sister. Although Bea was weakened in her later years with crippling arthritis, she maintained her strong family values. Her pain may have weakened her body but she never allowed it to cripple her spirit. Bea showed us the virtues of a loving wife, mother and grandmother by her loving example. We will cherish all she taught us by her loving and giving spirit. Death may separate us from her physically but it can never erase all the precious memories that she gave to each of us. A memorial service and tribute will be held on Tuesday, Nov. 4 at 2 p.m. at the Northern Vermont Funeral Home, 60 Elm St., Hardwick. Preceded by an hour of visitation beginning at 1 p.m. In lieu of flowers, contributions in Bea's 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.

, 74, died at St. Mary Medical Center in Langhorne, Sunday, Nov. 2, 2003. Born in Morrisville Nov. 27, 1928, he was the son of the late Harrison M. Mershon and Mary Jane Satterthwaite Mershon, and the brother of the late Harrison (Sparky) M. Mershon. He was a graduate of Morrisville High School and a resident of Danville, Vt., and Morrisville, Pa. Mr. Mershon was a self-employed as a master custom cabinetmaker for 33 years. He was involved with the Morrisville Community Pool Swim Team for many years and was a member of the Morrisville United Methodist Church. Carl was a World War II history enthusiast, an outdoorsman and an avid storyteller. Sitting at the dinner table, he would often entertain family and friends with stories of growing up on a farm during the Depression in the Penns Manor section of Fallsington. Mr. Mershon was the beloved husband for 52 years of Elizabeth (nee Lebegern) Mershon. He was the loving father of Cynthia Mershon and husband Russell Walsh of Morrisville, Susanne Mershon and husband Robert Borger of Alexandria, Va., and Carole Mershon Alborn and husband Leonard Alborn of Newtown. Mr. Mershon was also the loving grandfather of Andrew Satterthwaite Alborn and Olivia Mershon Alborn, Elizabeth and Michael Rainville, Bruce and Megan Walsh; and great-grandfather of Kaitlyn and Allison Rainville. He is also survived by several cousins, nieces and nephews. Family and friends are invited to a memorial service Saturday, Nov. 15, at 11 a.m., at the Morrisville United Methodist Church, Taft and Maple Avenues, in Morrisville. Calling hours will be from 10 a.m. until the time of the service. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be sent to the Morrisville United Methodist Church, Taft and Maple Avenues, Morrisville, PA 19067.

, 84, of Newark, Vt., and formerly of Marshfield, Mass., passed away Sunday, Nov. 2, 2003, at Northeastern Vermont Regional Hospital in St. Johnsbury. She was born Jan. 13, 1919, in Bangor, Maine, the daughter of the late Frank and Mary Lewis. She graduated from Stearns High School of Bangor, Maine, Class of 1936. She was a devoted homemaker. She was the beloved wife of the late Merton W. Allen, who predeceased her in 1966. She is also predeceased by her brother, Harold Lewis and his wife Margaret Lewis; and by her son-in-law, Frederick W. Schlup. She is survived by her son, John M. Allen and his wife Carol of Marshfield, Mass.; by her three daughters, Louise E. Allen of Newark, Margaret J. Schlup of Newark, and Barbara J. Ritson and her husband Robert of West Burke; and also by nine grandchildren, 22 great-grandchildren and two great-great-grandchildren. Calling hours will be held at the funeral home Wednesday from 6-8 p.m. Funeral services will be held at the funeral home Thursday at 11 a.m. Burial will be in the Sutton East Ridge Cemetery. Those who wish may send contributions in her memory to either: the Pines Patient Activities Fund, 601 Red Village Road, Lyndonville, VT 05851; or to Lyndon Rescue, Inc., P.O. Box 401, Lyndonville, VT 05851.

73, of West Burke, died suddenly at his home Sunday, Nov. 2, 2003. He was born in Dairyland, Wis., Aug. 14, 1930, the son of the late Alexander E. and Marie (Sundquist) Bollman. Mr. Bollman served several years in the U.S. Army during the Korean Conflict and was awarded the Purple Heart Medal. Ted worked for 27 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 Cub Scout leader, VICA Leadership adviser, and also served on the local Diversion Board. He also enjoyed hunting and fishing. He served under three Caledonia County Sheriffs as a deputy for many years and was a member of the VFW Post 10038 of Lyndonville. Survivors include his wife of 47 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, Ariz., and Thomas Bollman of Bethel, Vt.; two sisters, Marie Moresco and her husband Richard of San Francisco, Calif., and Genevieve Panconi of Edison, N.J.; and 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, Nov. 7, at 11 a.m., at St. Elizabeth Catholic Church in Lyndonville with the Rev. Stephen Nichols, celebrant. Burial will follow in St. Elizabeth Cemetery. Friends may meet with the family Thursday evening from 6-8 p.m. at the funeral home. There will be a vigil service at 7:45 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations made in Ted's memory may be directed to Riverside Life Enrichment Center, 2104 East Burke Road (Route 114), Lyndonville, VT 05851.

, 69, of North Road, Lancaster, N.H., died at his home Tuesday afternoon, Nov. 4, 2003. Mr. Baker was born in Whitefield, N.H., Aug. 21, 1934, the son of Sidney Anson and Viola Jennette (Sisco) Baker. Merlyn was a 1953 graduate of Lancaster Academy and served two years in the U.S. Army. He was employed for many years as a general foreman for Western Union Telegraph Company, New York, N.Y. The territory he covered stretched from Maine to Georgia. He married Jane Gray on Feb. 15, 1964. Together they moved 19 times during his career. He retired in 1986, returning to Lancaster permanently. After retirement he spent much of his time working with and building computers. He had a vast knowledge of computers and taught classes and provided consultation. He also enjoyed fishing. Merlyn was a member of the Jefferson Fire Department and former member of the Lancaster Fire Department. He was also a Free and Accepted Mason. Family members include his wife of Lancaster; two sons, Shawn P. Caron of Lancaster, and Gregory H. Caron of Chicago; three brothers, Carl Baker of Whitefield, James Baker of Pennsylvania, and his twin brother Mervyn Baker of Florida; four sisters, Helen Dexter of Connecticut, Gail Kelley of Alabama, Sylvia Corbett of Maine, and Judy Demers of Hooksett; five grandchildren, Megan, Brooke, Joshua, Adam and Cody; and several nieces, nephews and cousins. He was predeceased by a sister, Marjorie Hutchinson. Visiting hours will be held Friday afternoon and evening, Nov. 7, from 2-4 and 7-9 p.m., at the Bailey Funeral Home, Lancaster. A graveside service will be held Saturday afternoon at 1 p.m. at Summer Street Cemetery. The Rev. Dr. Thomas W. Bentum, pastor of Christ United Methodist Church, Lancaster, will officiate. Donations may be made in his memory to the Jefferson Fireman's Association, P.O. Box 173, Jefferson, NH 03583; or to a charity of one's choice.

, 63, of South Street, Littleton, N.H., died Sunday, Nov. 2, 2003, at her home with her family by her side. Gloria was born in Dorchester, Mass., the daughter of Benjamin and Louisa (Cooke) Akerley. She attended elementary school in North Reading, Mass., and graduated from Reading Memorial High School, Reading, Mass. Gloria and her husband William moved from North Reading, Mass., to Littleton, N.H., in 1989. She worked at the Littleton Stamp and Coin Company as an analyzer. She looked forward to going to work as she enjoyed her job and her co-workers whom she called friends. She loved her dogs Penny, Freedom and Angel, and her bird Kricket. She was a loving wife, mother and friend, and an inspiration to all who knew her. She is survived by her husband, William Sencabaugh of Littleton, N.H.; four sons, Arthur Hicks of Orange, Mass., Derek Sencabaugh of Lynn, Mass., Darryl Sencabaugh of Wilmington, Mass., and Kyle Sencabaugh of Medford, Mass.; four daughters, Annette Hicks of Littleton, N.H., Doreen Starkey of Goffstown, N.H., Sheri Burns of Orange Park, Fla., and Heidi Sutherland, of Malden, Mass.; 14 grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews. A gathering of friends and family will take place on Saturday, Nov. 8, 2003, at 1 p.m., at the Ross Funeral Home, Littleton Chapel, with a Celebration of Life service to follow at 2 p.m. with Father Joseph Klatka officiating. Memorial donations may be made in Gloria's memory to the North Country Home Health and Hospice, 536 Cottage Street, Littleton, NH, 03561.

, 74, of Contoocook, N.H., died Oct. 26, 2003 in Florida. He was born in St. Johnsbury, Vt., and lived in Contoocook most of his life. He was very much loved and respected by his family and friends. Stanley was the son of the late Wilmont D. and Dorothy P. (Johnson) White. He was also predeceased by a brother, Capt. Robert H. White, U.S. Navy. Stanley graduated from St. Johnsbury Academy and attended UVM and BU. He served in the U.S. Navy. Stan was a member and former trustee of the First Congregational Church of Hopkinton, as well as serving as chairman of the pledge drive for several years. He served the town as selectman, school board member, budget committee, Little League and Boy Scout Troop leader. He served for many years as a member of the Merrimack Flood Control Commission under Gov. Walter Peterson. Stan and his wife Ruthie owned and operated Duston Country Club, and in 1960 became a member of the Professional Golfers Association with Class A status. He helped organize the Golf Course Superintendents Association of New Hampshire. He was an active member of the New Hampshire Board of Realtors, retiring in 2002, and was instrumental in the development of Christmas Tree Shores on Lake Jo-Sylvia in Contoocook, and also Peaked Hill Condominiums in Hopkinton. He was a 50-year member of the Masonic Order and Eastern Star; a member of the American Legion, E. Roger Montgomery Post; a member of the New Hampshire Antiquarian Society; the Glades Country Club in Naples Fla.; and Duston Country Club in Hopkinton. He is survived by his wife of 50 years, Ruth L. (Hayward) White of Contoocook, N.H.; two sons, Robert H. White of Hopkinton, N.H., and David A. White of Contoocook; two daughters, Carrie H. West of Contoocook, and Judith A. Currier of Fair Banks, Alaska; nine grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews. Memorial services will be held Friday, Nov. 7, at 11 a.m., in the First Congregational Church, Hopkinton, N.H. The Rev. Gordon L. Crouch, pastor, will officiate. Burial will be held at the convenience of the family. Donations may be made in his name to the First Congregational Church, 1548 Hopkinton Road, Hopkinton, NH 03229; the Hopkinton Fire Dept. 9 Pine St., Contoocook, NH 03229; or the C.R.V.N.A. Hospice House, P.O. Box 1797, Concord, NH 03302.

, at age 79, passed away, Nov. 5, 2003, at Northeastern Vermont Regional Hospital in St. Johnsbury after a prolonged illness. Esther was the beloved wife of "Jack," who predeceased her in May 2000. Esther and Jack moved to Danville, Vt., in 1992. Before the move, they were longtime residents of Deale, Md., and for a short time afterwards in Annapolis, Md. Esther worked as a cashier at the Deale IGA Store; Jack worked for the Prince George's County Library System. Esther is survived by her three sons, Richard Taylor and his wife Debbie and a grandson Nathan, all of Danville, and a granddaughter Michelle of San Francisco, Calif., Norman G. Taylor of Deale, Md., a granddaughter of Angela of Annapolis, Md., and her third son, John R. "Ron" Cullember of Narberth, Pa. Esther was one of three sisters and one brother. Her youngest sister, Janet and her husband Robert of Highland, Md., survive Esther. In addition to those mentioned above, Esther leaves behind a host of family relatives, nieces, nephews and cousins and most of all her many friends. Funeral arrangements in Maryland are being handled by Lee Funeral Home, Branch Avenue and Coventry Way, Clinton, MD 20735, 301-868-0900. Services will be held Monday, Nov. 10, at 10 a.m. in the chapel. Immediate family members viewing will be from 9-9:30 a.m. All others are welcome after that time. Interment will be private at the Cheltenham Veterans Cemetery, Cheltenham, Md. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to your local cancer society, hospice or charity of your choice.

, 85, of Shaker Road, Belmont, N.H., died Wednesday, Nov. 5, 2003, at the Franklin Regional Hospital. Mr. Magoon was born in Dalton, N.H., on Dec. 14, 1917, the son of Cecil J. and Edith W. (Ward) Magoon. Alfred was employed most of his lifetime as a woodsman and a mill worker. For a time he lived in Dalton and Northumberland and worked at the Wyoming Valley Paper Company, Northumberland. He had resided in the Laconia area for the past 50 years also working in local mills and as a woodsman. Family members include nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by a brother, Arthur B. Magoon; and two sisters, Olive Hobbs and Mildred Wright. There are no visiting hours. A graveside service will be held Saturday morning, Nov. 8, at 11 a.m., at Summer Street Cemetery, Lancaster. The Rev. David Pendleton, pastor of the Lancaster Congregational United Church of Christ, will officiate.

, 57, of Browns Hill Road, Newport Center, passed away suddenly at his home Thursday, Nov. 6, 2003. He was a devoted husband and father. He was born April 23, 1946, in Newport, the son of Moody and Ruth (Whittaker) Petit. Sam owned and operated D & S Builders. He loved working in the woods, logging, maple sugaring, and working with wood. On Oct. 1, 1966, Sam married the former Elsie Moulton, who survives him. He is also survived by his children, Trixy Baldwin of Newport, Theresa Young and her husband Carl of Newport Center, and Darcy Petit of Newport Center; his grandchildren, Amanda and Aaron Baldwin; his brothers, Gordon Petit of Newport Center, and Jerry Petit of Coventry; his sister, Betty Rodriguez of Lake Tahoe, Calif.; nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents; and by his brothers, Warren and David. Friends may call at the Curtis-Britch Converse-Rushford Funeral Home, Darling Hill Road, Newport (formerly Sias Avenue) on Monday, Nov. 10 from 6-8 p.m., where funeral services will be held Tuesday, Nov. 11 at 1 p.m. Interment will follow at the Newport Center Cemetery. Should friends desire, contributions in Sam's memory may be made to the charity of one's choice.

, 86, of Riverside Avenue in Gilman, died suddenly at his home Friday, Nov. 7, 2003. Mr. Pike was born in Lunenburg, Feb. 23, 1917, the son of Harry W. and Zola (Carbee) Pike. Everett worked as a farmer all his life, residing for a time in Lyndon before his many years back in Gilman. He enjoyed spending time with people, always taking time for a visit and waving when folks went by. He also enjoyed fishing, bicycling, and taking care of his pets. Everett looked after numerous cats. He is survived by a sister, Hazel Patinaw of Farmington, Maine; many nieces, nephews and great nieces. He was predeceased by his wife, Cora (McCarty) Pike. Visiting hours will be held Sunday, Nov. 9, from 7-9 p.m. at the Bailey Funeral Home, Lancaster. A funeral service will be held Monday at 10 a.m. at the funeral home. The Rev. William J. Brown III of Gilman will officiate. Burial will be held in the Coventry Cemetery.

, 82, formerly of Pearl Street, St. Johnsbury, passed away Sunday evening, Nov. 9, 2003. She had resided at the St. Johnsbury Health and Rehab Center for the past six weeks. Jeanne was a parishioner of St. John the Evangelist Church and had worked at Northeastern Vermont Regional Hospital. She was proud to have served as president of the VFW Auxiliary. Jeanne enjoyed knitting, crocheting, quilting, and tending to her flower and vegetable gardens. Born in St. Johnsbury Dec. 19, 1921, she was the daughter of Auguste and Alice (Guertin) Morency. Besides her parents, she was predeceased by her three brothers, Lionel, Lorenzo and Armand; and three sisters, Jeannette Faucher, Germaine Larrabee and Marguerite Brouilette. She is survived by four children, Marie Hardy and her husband Reginald of Nashua, N.H., Thomas Fournier and his former wife Sandra, both of St. Johnsbury, Claire Iby and her husband Jack of Laconia, N.H., Rachel Reeder and her husband Jeffrey of Columbus, Ohio; five grandchildren, Robert Hardy, Clinton and Brandy Fournier, Daniel Iby and April Reeder; one great-grandson, Jeffrey Thomas "JT" Alfieri; several cousins, including Claire Morency of St. Johnsbury; and nieces, nephews, and all the Fournier in-laws. A funeral Mass will be celebrated Friday, Nov. 14, at 10 a.m., at St. John the Evangelist Church. Burial will follow at Mt. Calvary Cemetery. Visiting hours will be held at the funeral home Thursday afternoon and evening, 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. Expressions of sympathy could be directed to American Diabetes Association, Vermont Affiliate, 77 Hegeman Ave., Colchester, VT 05446.

, 65, of 1568 Brook Road, West Burke, passed away at St. Johnsbury Health and Rehab Center, Sunday, Nov. 10, 2003. She was born July 12, 1938, the daughter of the late Harry and Katherine (Cord) Bean. She was also predeceased by her husband, Kenneth Stowell, April 27, 1999; and by her brother, Leonard Bean. She graduated from Lyndon Institute, Class of 1956. She is survived by her three children, Bruce Stowell of St. Johnsbury; Ralph Stowell and his wife Helen of Derry, N.H., and Darlene Stowell of Boseawen, N.H.; by her grandchildren, Amanda and Michael and four others; by two brothers, Carlos Bean and his wife Betty of East Burke, and Darwin Bean of Barre; by several brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nieces and nephews; and by her many friends at bingo and Avon. A celebration of her life will be held later this fall. Burial will be in the Meeting House Cemetery in Burke Hollow. Those who wish may send contributions in her memory to the St. Jude Hospital Memorial Program, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105; or to the Make A Wish Foundation of Vermont, 10 Dorset St., South Burlington, VT 05403.

St. Johnsbury Fire Department, of St. Johnsbury, died Monday afternoon, Nov. 10, 2003, at Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center in Lebanon, N.H., at the age of 74. He was born April 10, 1929 in Syracuse, N.Y., the son of the late Howard G. and Dorothy (Knapp) Gieselman. On May 9, 1958, Howard married JoAnn Rice. Howard served his country for over 20 years, retiring as master sergeant in the U.S. Air Force in 1969. He and his family then moved to St. Johnsbury where he began a 21-year career with the St. Johnsbury Fire Department, retiring as captain. An active and strong supporter of the South Congregational Church, Howard held many offices there throughout the past 34 years. He was a charter member of the St. Johnsbury Fire Fighters Association 2934 International Association of Fire Fighters; Mount Mansfield Masonic Lodge F & AM in Jericho; Air Force Sergeants Association; conductor for the St. Johnsbury and Lamoille County Railroad Club; and was St. Johnsbury's Citizen of the Year in 1989. Howard quit high school during his senior year to enlist in the U.S. Navy near the end of World War II. He was proud to receive his high school diploma from St. Johnsbury Academy on Nov. 11, 2002, and was made an honorary member of his wife's class of 1953. Survivors include his wife of 45 years, JoAnn Gieselman of St. Johnsbury; their son, Howard R. Gieselman of Grand Isle; their daughter, Valerie Gieselman of Bradford; a granddaughter, Emily C. Gieselman and her mother Sara Miller of Burlington; a sister-in-law, Pauline Bouffard and her husband Edmund of Newport, and their family, Patricia and James Dobson, Raymond and Claudette Bouffard and children, and Laura Wheatly and her children; a special friend, Jeanne True of St. Johnsbury; many, many friends; and his fire department family. He was predeceased by a nephew, Robert Bouffard. A memorial service will be held Saturday, Nov. 15, at 2 p.m., at South Congregational Church in St. Johnsbury with the Rev. Steven Winkler officiating. Visiting hours will be held Friday evening from 5-7 p.m., also at the South Church. In lieu of flowers, donations made in Howard's memory may be directed to the Eugene McDonough Scholarship Fund, 1187 Main St., Suite 3, St. Johnsbury, VT 05819; or to the Newark Union Church, in care of JoAnne Clausing, 173 Ball Farm Road, Newark, VT 05871.

, 56, of 971 Whitefield Road, Dalton, N.H., died Nov. 11, 2003, at his home following an extended illness. Herb was born in Whitefield, Oct. 25, 1947, and was the son of Herbert A. Hennessey Sr. and Elinor (Burke) Hennessey. Herb graduated from Whitefield High School in 1965 and from Champlain College in Burlington, Vt., in 1967. Herb married Joanne Grimard on Aug. 15, 1970. He is survived by his wife, Joanne; his son, Derek Hennessey of Newton, Mass.; and his daughter, Beth (Hennessey) Reynolds and her husband Robert Reynolds of Framingham, Mass. Other survivors include his sisters and brothers-in-law, Maryclare (Hennessey) and Edward Quigley of Whitefield, and Anne (Hennessey) and David Jones of Marlborough, Conn., and Alan Astle of Dalton; his mother- and father-in-law, Robert and Evelyn Grimard of Dalton and Cape Coral, Fla.; his sister-in-law and brother-in-law Jean (Grimard) and Robert Bergin of Whitefield; and a niece, eight nephews, aunts, uncles, and cousins. He was predeceased by his parents and his sister Susan (Hennessey) Astle. Herb was co-owner and manager of Kilkenny Building Center in Lancaster for nearly 20 years. He was a charter member of the Whitefield Lions Club; a past president and active member of the Whitefield Alumni Association; and a member of the American Legion Post 41 in Whitefield. Herb served in the United States Army from 1967 to 1969 where he was stationed in Germany. Calling hours will be held Thursday, Nov. 13, from 4-8 p.m., at Ross Funeral Home in Whitefield and a funeral Mass will be held Friday, Nov. 14, at St. Matthew's Church in Whitefield at 4:30 p.m. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation in Herb's name to the Norris Cotton Cancer Center at Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center, One Medical Center Drive, Lebanon, NH 03766; or The American Cancer Society, P.O. Box 102454, Atlanta, GA 30368.

, 93, of Lancaster, N.H., died Wednesday evening, Nov. 19, 2003, at the Country Village Health Care Center in Lancaster. Mrs. Treffrey was born in Stratford, N.H., July 27, 1910, the daughter of David and Lucy (Hapgood) McMann. Activities of her life began with the occupation of barber in North Stratford at age 16. After marriage, she spent her life in Lancaster where she worked as a nurse's aide at Weeks Memorial Hospital during World War II. In 1959, Velma and her husband, Fred Treffrey, owned and operated the Wip-O-Will Cabins and Dairy Bar on Bridge Street in Lancaster. Velma celebrated 67 years of marriage with Fred and was widowed in 2000. For 17 years,Velma was a Girl Scout leader in the town and started the first Senior Scout Troop. Later she called square dances in schools and hotels and at North Country festivals. For many years Velma was an active member of the Mt. Prospect Grange and also with the church and in teaching youth at the Assembly of God Church. She is survived by two daughters, Shirley Visnor of Londonderry, N.H., and Muriel Trefry, administrator of Holton Point in Lancaster; one brother, Wilson McMann of North Stratford; two grandchildren, Lynne Forsythe and Angela Martin; three great-grandchildren, Melysa, Douglas, and Nathaniel. Visiting hours will be held Sunday, Nov. 23, from 4-6 p.m. at the Bailey Funeral Home, Lancaster. A funeral service will be held Monday at 2:30 p.m. at the Lancaster Assembly of God. The Rev. James Michael, pastor, and Rabbi Joyce Meinhardt of Lancaster will co-officiate. Burial will be in the Center Cemetery, Stratford.

, 76, Meadow Street in Littleton, died suddenly, Thursday, Nov. 13, 2003, at the Littleton Regional Hospital. He was born in Littleton, the son of Roy and Bertha (Placey) Harriman. He attended local schools. He served in World War II, as a Corporal for the U.S. Air Force, having spent from 1945-1949 in Germany. He lived most of his life in Littleton, and worked for the State of New Hampshire Highway Department as a patrolman for 30 years, retiring in 1989. He enjoyed fishing, gardening, and building his bird houses. He had just recently celebrated 55 years of marriage to his loving wife Marianne (Niedermeier) Harriman. He is survived by his wife Marianne; a son and his wife Joe and Jean Harriman, of Littleton; two granddaughters; three great grandchildren Kyle and Matthew Vergato, George Parker; a sister Carolyn Pageau, St. Johnsbury Center, Vt.; many nieces and nephews here and in Germany. A Gathering of friends and family will be held Saturday, Nov. 15, 2003, at 9 a.m., at the Ross Funeral Home, Littleton Chapel, with a Celebration of Life service to follow at 10 a.m., with the Rev. Lyn McIntosh officiating. Memorial donations may be made in his memory to the Littleton Public Library, 109 Main St., Littleton, NH, 03561, or The Littleton Area Senior Center, P.O. Box 98, Littleton, NH, 03561.

, 84, of Littleton, passed away Nov. 7, at the Littleton Regional Hospital after a brief illness. Edward was born in Littleton, N.H. on Jan. 27, 1919, to Errol and Anna (Champagne) Black Simonds. Edward joined the U. S. Army in Jan. 1941, and served in World War II. He was awarded two Pacific Service Medals and a WWII Service medal. After his discharge from the Army on Aug. 29, 1945, he worked at Connors and Hoffman Shoe Shop until he retired. He was married to Shirley Mae (Brown) Paradis Simonds on May 1, 1954. He was an avid hunter, fisherman, and walker. He helped his wife, Shirley raise her children. Edward was a parishioner of St. Rose of Lima Church and a proud lifetime member of the VFW. He was the oldest member of the VFW-Howard Shawney Post 816, being a member for 60 years. Surviving family members include his wife, Shirley Simonds of Littleton, N.H.; two daughters, Jeanette (Paradis) Tetreault of Littleton, N.H. and Elaine (Paradis) Smith of Zyphyrhills, Fla.; two sons, Richard Paradis of Greensville, N.C., and Maurice Paradis of Littleton, N.H.; two half-brothers, Elmer Black, Jr. of Whitefield, N.H., and Robert T. Black of Littleton, N.H.; 14 grandchildren and 19 great-grandchildren; several nieces, nephews, and cousins. There will be no calling hours. A Memorial mass will be celebrated Monday, Nov. 17 at 11 a.m. at St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church with Rev. Fr. Joseph Klatka as Celebrant. Burial will follow in the St. Rose Cemetery in Littleton. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the VFW-Howard Shawney Post 816, P. O. Box 562, Littleton, NH 03561.

, 92, passed away at the Morrison Nursing Home in Whitefield peacefully with his family at his side on Wednesday, Nov. 12, 2003, following a short illness. He was formerly from Dalton. He was born in Lynn, Mass., son of Arthur and Mary (Green) O'Neil. His love of music brought him to New York City in 1923, where he joined the Schubert Theatre. He traveled extensively throughout the United States and abroad performing the most popular operettas, "Blossom Time," "The Merry Widow," and "Rosalinda." Following World War II, he performed in Germany with the USO Troop 660, and then made numerous appearances at the Metropolitan Opera, and Dupont Theatre. Locally, John sang at all the grand hotels and many churches in the area. At the age of 80, John was an outspoken activist against the St. James Bay Hydro Electric Powerline that was slated and defeated for the Dalton and Littleton area. He married Anne Flaherty on Aug. 15, 1934, and during their 67 years of marriage they raised eight children. She predeceased him in 2001. He was also predeceased by a son, Jack. He is survived by two daughters, Maureen O. Godbout, Littleton, Eileen T. Ball and her husband Gregory, of Franconia; grandchildren, Kevin Godbout and his wife Karen; and great-granddaughters Claire and Nicole, Seattle, Wash., Erin Godbout, Sugar Hill, Bryan Godbout, Crested Butte, Colo., Theresa O'Neil and her husband John Deighton, Mulberry, Fla., Dennis O'Neil and his wife Linda; great-grandsons Matthew and John, Hollis, N.H., Colin Ball, Bellaire Bluffs, Fla., Joseph O'Neil, Sugar Hill, Brandon Ball and his wife Rachel, Whitefield, Alicia Champagne and her husband Gregory, Beverly, Mass., Lance Ball, Manchester, Courtney Ball, Manchester, and a niece Gloria Crawford, Alexandria, Va. Friends may call at the Ross Funeral Home, Whitefield Chapel, today, Nov. 14, from 7-9 p.m. A Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated at St. Matthew's Catholic Church, Whitefield, Saturday, Nov. 15 at 10 a.m. Burial will follow in the St. Matthew's Cemetery, Whitefield.

, 77, of Union Street, Littleton, passed away on Nov. 15, 2003 at Littleton Regional Hospital after a long illness, in the comfort of his family. Joseph was born a son of Euclide and Emilia (LaFrance) Gagnon on April 14, 1926 in Berlin, N.H. He attended school in Berlin and later moved to Lincoln to work at the Lincoln Paper Mill. He then moved to Littleton and was employed by Curran Lavoie Construction as a bridge builder. Joseph became involved in detail-oriented wood carpentry and had a passion for building things. He was also a hunter. Surviving family members include his wife, Irene (Bilodeau) Gagnon of Littleton, N.H.; one son, Leo Gagnon of Norway, Maine; two daughters, Pamela Haynes and Josephine Remington both of Littleton, N.H.; two stepchildren, Jeff Richards and Lisa Richards of Littleton, N.H.; three brothers, Raoul Gagnon of Dummer, N.H., Omar Gagnon of Gorham, N.H., and Richard Gagnon of Webster, N.H.; four sisters, Elizabeth Chaisson of Northfield, N.H., Juliette Dubreuil of Berlin, N.H., Clara Collins of Berlin, N.H., and Theresa Holmes of Gorham, N.H.; four grandchildren, and one step-granddaughter. Joseph's first wife, Frieda (Wiggett) Gagnon and one sister, Margaret Gagnon predeceased him. The family will receive friends and relatives on Monday, Nov. 17 from 6-8 p.m., at the Pillsbury Funeral Home, 101 Union St., Littleton. Graveside funeral services will be held Tuesday, Nov. 18 at 10 a.m., in the Glenwood Cemetery in Littleton with Rev. Fr. Roger Bilodeau as Celebrant. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in his memory to North Country Home Health and Hospice, Cottage Street, Littleton, NH 03561.

of Lyndonville, passed away at home unexpectedly Friday, Nov. 14, 2003. Linda was a survivor. In 1993, she contracted viral encephalitis, bravely battled its after-effects, and fought for her recovery. Her courage, strength and attitude were admirable throughout. She thoroughly enjoyed all her sons' school and sports activities. Knitting was both her passion and her specialty. She was born in St. Johnsbury, June 28, 1957, and was the daughter of William and Beverly Villeneuve. She graduated from St. Johnsbury Academy in 1975. On April 20, 1979, she and William Robinson were married. She is survived by her husband, Bill (100 Pine Ridge Circle, Lyndonville, VT 05851); two sons, Benjamin Robinson and his fiancee Paige Loomis of Lyndonville, and James Robinson of Lyndonville; her parents, William and Bev Villeneuve of St. Johnsbury; her mother-in-law, Beverly Robinson of Lyndonville; her sister, Brenda Lane and her husband David of St. Johnsbury; one sister-in-law, Cindy Lamb and her husband Jack of Underhill; two brothers-in-law, Donald Robinson of Swanton, Thomas Robinson and his wife Tori of Colchester; aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces and nephews. A funeral Mass will be celebrated Tuesday at 11 a.m. at St. John the Evangelist Church in St. Johnsbury. Visiting hours will be held at the Sayles Funeral Home Monday from 5-8 p.m. Memorial contributions could be directed to the Epilepsy Foundation of Vermont, P.O. Box 6292, Rutland, VT 05702.

, 91, of St. Johnsbury, Vt., died Monday, Nov. 17, 2003, at the Canterbury Inn in St. Johnsbury. She was born in Newbury, Vt., Aug. 7, 1912, the daughter of Harold H. and Mae Louise (Estey) Hutchins. Ramona worked at several businesses, including the Mount Washington Resort, the gift shop at the Cog Railroad, Lyndon State College and the Stowe Inn as a housekeeper. On June 21, 1933, she married George H. Frye, who predeceased her on Dec. 21, 1953. She later married Clayton Flint, who predeceased her on Aug. 13, 1985. Survivors include her children and their spouses, Louise and Donald Hale of Davenport, Fla., Marylene and Walter Sevigny of Danville, John Frye and Kathy Bradley of Peacham, Georgiana and Garth Page of Groton, Berton and Virginia Frye of Danville, William and Kathy Frye of Barnet; a sister, Ruby and her husband Kenneth Goslant of Walden, a brother Gerald and his wife Betty Hutchins of North Danville; sisters-in-law Jean Hutchins of Passumpsic and Fanny Craig of Fairlee; 16 grandchildren; 20 great-grandchildren; three great-great grandchildren; nieces and nephews; cousins; and a stepchild, Jeanette and her husband Clinton Boyce of Florida. She was also predeceased by two brothers, Earl and Harold Hutchins; stepbrother, Stanley Craig; sister, Naomi McGill; grandson, Keith Hale; great-grandson, Zachary Hale; and great-granddaughter, Chelsea Whitcomb. Funeral services will be held at the Danville Congregational Church, Friday, Nov. 21 at 1 p.m., with the Rev. Jim Llewelyn officiating. Burial will follow at the Danville Green Cemetery. Friends are invited to meet the family at Sayles Funeral Home, Thursday, from 6-8 p.m. Contributions in her memory may be made to the Danville Rescue Squad, P.O. Box 255, Danville, VT 05828.

, 84, died Monday, Nov. 17, 2003, at the Pines Health & Rehabilitation Center in Lyndonville, Vt., after a lengthy illness. Ruth was born in Taftsville, Vt., in 1919, the daughter of William Harold Seaver and Beulah Hall Seaver. She was a graduate of Woodstock High School, Class of 1935, and the University of Vermont in 1940 with a degree in education. Her first teaching position was in Westford, Vt., where she met and married Hobart C. Paige in 1942. She spoke often of friends and fond memories of living in Amarillo, Texas, during World War II. Upon returning to Vermont, Ruth was a much-loved teacher in Fairfax, 1950-1952, and in Brattleboro, 1963-1977. She was proud to be a member of the Delta Delta Delta sorority and the Episcopal Church. She served as church secretary at Immanuel Episcopal Church in Bellows Falls, 1955-1958, at which time the family moved to Chester, Vt. She spent recent winters at Holiday Park in Palm Bay, Fla., where she made many dear friends. Summers were spent in South Burlington, Vt. She leaves a son, Richard Hobart Paige and his wife Gloria of Wesley Chapel, Fla.; a daughter, Susan Strifert and her husband John Richard of North Danville, Vt.; her beloved grandchildren, Steven John Mitchelides and his father John Mitchelides, Kenneth Ashley Strifert, Lauren Walker and her husband Steve; their three children, Kyle, Kyra and Jenna Walker. Ruth was preceded in death by her parents; brother, William Hosmer Seaver; and her former husband, Hobart. Ruth was an avid reader, so memorial contributions may be made to the library of your choice. There will be a graveside service at the convenience of the family in Taftsville, Vt.

65, of Elm Street in Lancaster, died Monday evening, Nov. 17, 2003, at Weeks Medical Center, Lancaster, after a long illness. Mr. Pinard was born in Franklin, N.H., June 24, 1938, the son of Maurice and Elsie (Ford) Pinard. During the early years of his youth he resided in Danbury, N.H., later moving to McIndoe Falls, Vt., where he was a graduate of McIndoe Academy. He also attended Lyndon State College. Residing in St. Johnsbury for several years, he was employed by New England Power Company in Barnet, Vt., and later taught at the Lyndon Town School, Lyndon, Vt. Thirty years ago he moved to Lancaster taking the position of manager of AmeriGas, Lancaster. He retired in 2000. He has been an avid softball player all his life, playing many years at Colonel Town in Lancaster, including the Seniors team in recent years. For the past 30 years he has been a basketball referee in both New Hampshire and Vermont and was a member of the I.A.B.O. NH Chapter. Hunting and fishing were his passion. Family members include his wife of 42 years, Sherry (King) Pinard of Lancaster; his mother, Elsie (Ford) Pinard of St. Johnsbury; four children, Kimberlee Spaulding, Kory Pinard, Kasey Grisham, all of Littleton, Kregg Pinard of Bethlehem; nine grandchildren; a brother, Roger Pinard of Ellington, Conn.; two sisters, Rhonda Murray of Pittsfield, N.H., Rita Pinard of St. Johnsbury; and many nieces, nephews and cousins. Visiting hours will be held Thursday, Nov. 20, from 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. at the Bailey Funeral Home, Lancaster. A funeral service will be held Friday at 11 a.m. at the Lancaster Congregational United Church of Christ. The Rev. David Pendleton, pastor, will officiate. Burial will be in the spring at the Lakeside Cemetery in Island Pond, Vt. The family has requested donations in lieu of flowers be made to Weeks Medical Center, Middle Street, Lancaster, NH 03584. Please specify the donation to go to "Equipment for the Nursing Staff."

, 79, White River Junction, Vt., died Tuesday, Nov. 18, 2003, at the Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center in Lebanon, N.H. She was born Jan. 25, 1924, in Topsham, Vt., a daughter of John R. and Florence (Russin) Pennington. She graduated from St. Mary's Academy in Dover, N.H. She married Clayton A. Wood Sr., June 24, 1944, in White River Junction where she has lived since. She worked at the Hartford Woolen Mill in Hartford before going to work at Howard Johnson's in White River Junction first as a waitress and becoming the assistant manager. She then worked at the Montshire Restaurant in West Lebanon as the head hostess before becoming the head of the dietary department at Hanover Terrace Nursing Home in Hanover. She later went to work at Mary Hitchcock Memorial Hospital in Hanover, N.H., where she was a dietary supervisor until retiring in 1989. She was an active member and volunteer at the White River United Methodist Church in White River Junction and a member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars Auxiliary in White River Junction. Mrs. Wood loved children and animals and enjoyed reading, yard sales and bingo. She will be remembered for her resilient spirit, sharp wit and loving heart. She was predeceased by her husband in 1992; and a brother, Vernal Pennington. She is survived by three daughters, Sandra Wood of White River Junction, Nancy LaCroix of Bow, N.H., and Kimberly Wood of Lyndonville, Vt.; two sons, Clayton A. Wood Jr. of Sharon, and Bryan E. Wood of White River Junction; 10 grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; two sisters, Pauline Hanley of Portsmouth, N.H. and Geraldine Crowley of Somersworth, N.H.; as well as many nieces and nephews. A funeral service will be held Saturday at 11 a.m. at the White River United Methodist Church with burial following in the Hartford Cemetery. Knight Funeral Home in White River Junction is in charge of arrangements. Memorial contributions may be made to Brookhaven Children and Family Services, P.O. Box 127, Chelsea, VT 05038; or the Upper Valley Humane Society HC63 Box 52A, Lebanon, NH 03766-7205.

, 76, of Lancaster, N.H., known to all as "Fuddy," went home to be with the Lord, Nov. 18, 2003, after a brief illness. Born in Four Falls, New Brunswick, Canada on Dec. 16, 1926, he was the son of Zean and Pearl (Scott) Donovan. He served his country in the Navy in 1943 and in the Army in the Korean Conflict stationed in Germany. Most of his life he was a self-employed professional dry cleaner in Lancaster where he lived and raised his beloved family. He was a well-known championship candlepin bowler for the Littleton VFW and the Woodsville American Legion. He is survived by his wife of 45 years, Althea (Snell) Donovan of Lancaster; two sons and their wives, Jonathan and Carole of Manchester, N.H., Jaimie and Susan of Dover, N.H.; four grandchildren Adam, Heather, Kristin, Kyle; five brothers, Perley Donovan, Donald Donovan, Lincoln Donovan and James Donovan all of Florida, Richard Donovan of Arizona; four sisters, Phyllis Hartshorn of Whitefield, Verna Moulton of Franklin, Frieda Beaton of Arizona, and Arlene Donovan of Lancaster. There are no visiting hours. A funeral service will be held Friday, Nov. 21, at 2 p.m., at the Calvary Baptist Church, 14 Canal St., Lancaster. Pastor David Ricker will officiate. Burial with military honors will follow in Summer Street Cemetery, Lancaster. The family has requested flowers be omitted. Memorial donations may be made in his memory to the Calvary Baptist Church, 14 Canal St., Lancaster.

, 60, of 4440 Route 5 south, McIndoe Falls, Vt., passed away at his residence Thursday, Nov. 20, 2003. He was born Dec. 26, 1942, in Philadelphia, Pa., the son of Walter B. and Adele (Dunning) Willard Jr. He served in the U.S. Army and was a self-employed insurance broker. His wife, Jane (Chester) Willard, predeceased him Oct. 5, 2003. He is survived by four children and their spouses, Kimberly and Daniel Dougherty of Southampton, Pa., Heather and John Smith of McIndoe Falls, Jennifer and Carl Kurtgis of St. Johnsbury, Vt., and Walter B. Willard IV of McIndoe Falls. He is also survived by eight grandchildren; by his parents, Walter B. and Adele Willard Jr. of Townsends Inlet, N.J.; by his brother and sisters and their spouses, Wendy and Joseph Vaites of Chadds Ford, Pa., William and Yvonne Willard of Flourtown, Pa., and Winne Hover of Flourtown; and by several nieces and nephews. Visiting hours will be held Sunday, Nov. 23, from 3-5 p.m. at the Union Baptist Church in St. Johnsbury. Funeral services will be held Monday, Nov. 24, at 10:30 a.m. at the Union Baptist Church in St. Johnsbury, with the Rev. Paul Powers officiating. Burial will be in the McIndoe Falls Cemetery. Military honors will be conducted at the cemetery. Those who wish may send contributions in his memory to the Covered Bridge, P.O. Box 569, St. Johnsbury, VT 05819.

, 76, a lifelong Danville resident, died Thursday, November 20, 2003, at the St. Johnsbury Health & Rehabilitation Center. He was the oldest son of Perley L. and Alice (Scribner) Bean. He was born June 19, 1927 in Danville, Vt. He attended local schools and enlisted in the Navy Seabees in 1944 at the age of 17 and spent some time with the occupation forces on Okinawa. After his discharge, he worked as a laborer on local farms until he reenlisted in the service in 1948, this time in the Army during the Korean War. He was injured while stationed in Japan, these injuries followed him all his life. After his discharge in 1952, he and his brother Carroll owned a farm together raising pure breed Holsteins. They split the partnership in 1963, each owning their own farms. In later years, Leo sold his farm and established another homestead on their old family farm in Danville, and continued to raise purebred cattle until two years ago. He had many good and faithful neighbors who will surely miss him. He is survived by his two sisters, Shirley Donnelly of Georgia and Gloria Jones of Morrisville; his two brothers, Raymond Bean of Lake Charles, La., and Paul Bean of Bennington; two sisters-in-law, Alice Bean of Lyndonville, and Terry Bean of Pennsylvania; as well as many nieces and nephews. He was preceded by his father in 1943, his mother in 1970, sister Elsie Padham in 1971, brother Carroll in 1995 and brother Kenneth in 2000. The family will greet friends at calling hours this evening between the hours of 6 and 8 p.m. at the Sayles Funeral Home. A graveside committal will be held in the spring at the Danville Green Cemetery in Danville. Memorial contributions may be made in Leo's name to the Disabled American Veterans.

, 74, longtime Lyndonville resident, died Thursday, Nov. 20, 2003, at Northeastern Vermont Regional Hospital. Mildred was born in Morrisville, Vt. on Oct. 22, 1929, the daughter of Herbert Henry and Florence Marion (Cornell) Gregory. She graduated from Peoples Academy Class of 1947 and went on to own and operate GEM Vending in Lyndonville. She was married to Lewis H. Branch who predeceased her. She enjoyed horse pulling, and owned her own pulling horses for awhile. She was also interested in fishing, hunting and making her specialty, beef and rib roasts. Mildred is survived by her sister, Barbara Rhoades and her husband Ted, of Humble, Texas; two nieces, Connie Sansness of Brisbane, Australia, and Lee Watson of San Angelo, Texas; and her dear friends, Helen Bedor of Lyndonville, Carol Austin of Concord, and Patricia Shene of Lyndonville. A funeral service will be held today at the Guibord Funeral Home beginning at 2 p.m. with the Rev. Jeanette McKnight officiating. Interment will follow in the Lyndon Center Cemetery. Calling hours will be from noon until 1:30 p.m. also at the funeral home. Memorial contributions may be made in Mildred's name to the Vermont Special Olympics located at 368 Ave., D Suite 30, Williston, VT 05495.

, 104, of 191 Pleasant Street, Littleton, N.H., died Friday, Nov. 21, 2003, at the Lafayette Center in Franconia, N.H. She was born in Somerville, Mass., April 17, 1899, the daughter of Charles and Mary (Luna) Quail. She grew up and attended schools in the Somerville area. She graduated from Somerville High School in 1919. She worked for the John C. Page Insurance Company in Boston several years before she moved to Littleton and married her husband, George Vigneault, in 1933. Olivia and her husband owned and operated two businesses in Littleton for many years: The Lilac Terrace, a bed and bath on Cottage St.; and The Lafayette Paint & Auto Store on Main Street. Her husband, George A.Vigneault, predeceased her in 1970. She was a long-standing member of the Catholic Daughters and the Saint Rose of Lima Parish in Littleton. In her retirement, she was extremely well traveled and enjoyed many trips with her friends and relatives. She also enjoyed reading, going to musicals and concerts. She was an avid craftsperson and enjoyed making crafts and playing cards with her friends. Her family and friends were very important to her, so her favorite pastime was visiting with them. On her 100th birthday she celebrated this centennial event with over 80 friends and relatives at the Knights of Columbus Home in Bethlehem. The program included a slide show of her life in which she was able to narrate by sharing many details of her life. She received a plaque signed by President Clinton, a poem written by her grandniece, Taylor Quail, and many other gifts, and was entertained by "The Crescendos" and a band "Water." Taylor performed in both musical groups, as Olivia loved music. She has been a recipient of the Boston Cane Award being the oldest living member of Littleton for the past two years. The family includes a niece, Susan M. Quail of Littleton; a nephew, Leonard J. Quail and his wife Carmela of Littleton, their children, two grandnephews, Tyler and Seth Quail of Quincy, Mass.; and a grandniece, Taylor Quail of Campton, N.H.; a nephew, Bernard Vigneault and his wife Betty of Harrisville, N.H. and their four children, two grandnephews and two grandnieces, with one great-grandniece, also survive her. Other surviving members of her family who have maintained close contact with Olivia are, a cousin, Edith Bilotta of Derry, N.H., and a grandniece, Margie Allard of Burlington, Vt. Her two brothers, Leonard A. Quail of Littleton and Harold Quail of Somerville, Mass., and a sister-in-law, Loretta Quail of Littleton, predeceased her. The family will receive friends on Wednesday, Nov. 26, from 10-11 a.m., at the Pillsbury Funeral Home, 101 Union Street, Littleton. A Mass of Christian burial will follow at 11:30 a.m. at the St. Rose of Lima Church, with the Rev. Joseph Klatka as celebrant. Committal rights will follow in the church. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in her honor to the Hospice of the Littleton Area, 600 St. Johnsbury Road, Littleton, NH 03561.

, longtime resident of Passumpsic, Vt., died Saturday, Nov. 22, 2003, at St. Johnsbury Health and Rehabilitation Center, at the age of 88. She was born Oct. 27, 1915, in St. Johnsbury, the daughter of the late Clarence H. and Josephine (Ferris) Barrett. Ruth attended local schools and on June 5, 1933, she married Walter D. Friend. Cooking and attending family functions brought her great enjoyment. Many will miss her great fudge that was so looked forward to at those occasions. Survivors include two daughters, Shirley Carter and her husband Paul of Capital Heights, Md., and Jennie Blanton of Forestville, Md.; one son, Gordon Friend and his wife Marybea of Waterford; six grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; two great-great-grandchildren; three sisters, Katherine Hill and her husband Charles of Williston, Betty Minshull and her husband William of Waterford, and Mabel Barrett of St. Johnsbury; five brothers, Herbert Barrett of St. Johnsbury, William Barrett of Lyndon, Kenneth Barrett and his wife Helen of Sutton, Clinton Barrett and his wife Lora of Marlborough, Mass., and Clarence Barrett Jr. of Clearwater, Fla.; and many nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her husband, "Walt," in 1985; her great-granddaughter, Heidi Urie; and six sisters, Audrey Blaine, Marion Stone, Margaret Smith, Louise Lunstrom and Bertha and Patricia Barrett as infants. Graveside services will be held in the spring of 2004 at Passumpsic Cemetery. There will be no calling hours. In lieu of flowers, donations made in her memory may be directed to Passumpsic Community Baptist Church, in care of Marilyn Urie, 2236 Simpson Brook Road, Waterford, VT 05819-9574.

, 91, died Monday evening, Nov. 24, 2003, at Country Village Health Care Center in Lancaster, N.H. Mrs. Nadeau was born Sept. 21, 1912 "out east" on the Brook Road, Lancaster, the youngest of three girls born to Maude S. Greenwood Smith and Harley A. Smith. Helen graduated from Lancaster Academy and went on to school at Fletcher Allen Hospital School of Nursing in Burlington, Vt., receiving her RN. When World War II broke out she enlisted in the U.S. Army Nurse's Corp. Five years were spent in England, Scotland and France, as a second lieutenant. In France, Helen was a front line evacuation hospital nurse and was awarded the Bronze Star for the Battle of the Bulge. Upon returning home she married the love of her life, Francis X. Nadeau, also of Lancaster. They had planned to wed before the war but were forced to postpone their wedding for five years while both served their country. Helen continued her career in nursing at the B.D. Weeks hospital until 1972 when she and Francis retired. She loved being outdoors and the two of them fished many of the remote ponds in northern New Hampshire and Vermont with their fateful Airedales. Quebec and New Brunswick were also favorite fishing destinations with friends. She completely enjoyed the family camp on Maidstone Lake, often getting up while everyone slept to catch lake trout for the breakfast meal. She had extensive knowledge of nature and loved sharing it with friends. Her favorite flower was the pink ladyslipper. Helen had lived at Country Village Eldercare Center since 1987. She was predeceased by her loving Francis in 1996; a grandson, Benjamin Nadeau, in 1991; and two sisters, Eva Gadwah and Cecilia Bitzell. Survivors are her two daughters, Irene B. Nadeau of Guildhall, Vt., and Zelda F. Gonyer of Lancaster; three grandsons and four great-grandchildren. There will be no visiting hours. Services will be held at the convenience of the family. Memorial contributions may be made to the Benjamin Nadeau Scholarship Fund, in care of Christine Crane, White Mountains Regional High School, Whitefield, NH 03598.

, 54, Essex County Deputy Sheriff, of Fellows Road, Guildhall, Vt., lost her life in the line of duty Nov. 24, 2003 in Lunenburg, Vt. Ruby was born in Elkhart, Ind., July 14, 1949, the daughter of Walter and Dorothy (Conaway) Daum. Raised in Indiana, she resided there until 1980, moving to Randolph, N.H. In 1989 she moved to Guildhall, where she has been an Essex County Sheriff for the past five years. Ruby also taught aerobics and was a line dancing instructor. Her favorite activities were motorcycling and snowmobiling. Family members include her husband, Gilbert Rainault of Guildhall; three sons, Jason Rainault of Colebrook, N.H., Benjamin Rainault of Laconia, N.H., and Travis Rainault of St. Johnsbury, Vt.; three daughters, Angel Rainault of Newport, Vt., Amanda Kelly Rainault of Groveton, N.H., and Amanda Ariel Rainault of Guildhall; and two sisters, Marilyn Glassburn and Deborah Snell, both of Indiana. Visiting hours will be held Friday afternoon and evening, Nov. 28, from 2-4 and 6-9 p.m., at the Bailey Funeral Home, Lancaster, N.H. A funeral service will be held Saturday morning at 11 a.m. at the Lancaster School auditorium, Route 2, Lancaster, N.H. A reception will follow in the Guild Hall, Guildhall, Vt. Donations in lieu of flowers may be made in her memory to the National Breast Cancer Foundation Inc., One Hanover Park, 16633 North Dallas Parkway, Suite 600, Addison, Texas 75001.

, 99, of Island Pond, Vt., formerly of North Stratford, N.H., passed away Tuesday, Nov. 25, 2003, at the North Country Hospital in Newport, Vt. Mrs. Poulin was born Nov. 15, 1904, in St. George, P.Q., Canada, the daughter of the late Gedeon and Marie Champagne. She was a homemaker and worked as a cook in the logging camps with her husband, Willie Poulin. She was also employed at the plywood factory in North Stratford for a number of years. She loved to cook and also enjoyed playing bingo and cards. She will be remembered fondly for her famous homemade beans and for her love of family and family gatherings. Mrs. Poulin is survived by five children, Lawrence Poulin and his wife Saba of Florida, Rose Morris of Goffstown, N.H., Anita King and her husband Jim of Island Pond, Vt., Frances Tetreault and her husband Richard of North Stratford, and Joseph "Tippy" Poulin of Glastonbury, Conn.; numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren; and nieces, nephews and cousins. Mrs. Poulin was preceded in death by her loving husband, Willie Poulin in 1980; by two daughters, Rita Platt and Denise Curtis; an infant son; five brothers and four sisters. Calling hours will be held Friday, Nov. 28, 2003, from 2-4 and 7-9 p.m., at the Jenkins Funeral Home. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Saturday, Nov. 29, at 11 a.m., at the Sacred Heart Catholic Church in North Stratford, with the Rev. Daniel Deveau as celebrant. An interment service will follow at the Sacred Heart Cemetery in North Stratford. Expressions of sympathy in Mrs. Poulin's memory may be made to the Essex-Orleans VNA and Hospice, 3 Lakemont Road, Newport, VT 05855.

, 56, of Robin Lane in Lancaster, N.H., died Thursday, Nov. 27, 2003, at Weeks Medical Center after a long battle with cancer. Mr. Calderon was born in Hato Rey, Puerto Rico, on Feb. 24, 1947, the son of Carlos M. and Kathleen (Cerra) Calderon Sr. He was raised for a time in Puerto Rico, later moving with his family to Connecticut, where he graduated from Cheshire Academy. He attended college in Ohio until volunteering for the U.S. Army and serving in the Vietnam War. He has had several occupations during his life including sales representative, shipping manager, and U.S. postal clerk. For the past seven years he has been residing in Guildhall remodeling a home he purchased there. He lived with his parents in Lancaster during his illness. Carlos traveled around the world. He was an avid reader and enjoyed music, especially jazz. Family members include his parents of Lancaster; a sister, Elsa Calderon and her husband Paul Thomas of New Haven, Conn.; and a niece, Katie. There are no visiting hours. A memorial service will be held Saturday Nov. 29, at 11 a.m. at the Lancaster Congregational United Church of Christ. The Rev. David Pendleton will officiate.

longtime resident of Island Pond, Vt., passed away in Lyndonville, Vt., Wednesday, Nov. 26. He was born in Lewiston, Maine, to Mathilda and Emile Caouette. Jim enlisted in the U.S. Army in March of 1941 and served during World War II for five years in Europe. In 1943, he was awarded the Legion of Merit medal for meritorious conduct as a rail transportation officer in North Africa. It was a rare and happy occasion when Jim met his sister, Priscilla, and brother, Robert, in Italy during the war. His brother, Bert was a prisoner of war in Nuremburg, Germany. When the war ended, Jim returned home aboard the Queen Elizabeth along with 14,000 also returning to the homeland. In July of 1941, on his first furlough from the U.S. Army, Jim married Lorraine Osborne and they were blessed with six children. Jim and Lorraine celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary July 5, 2001. Jim was proud of his community of Island Pond in which he lived all of his life. He loved the people, the four seasons and the tranquility of a small town. Until he was diagnosed with Alzheimer disease in the summer of 2000, he could be seen taking his daily walk around the village and visiting with the townspeople. He had a great sense of humor and the desire to make you laugh. He was always up for a good joke. Throughout his life, Jim served his community in many ways, including selectman from 1962 to 1966. He was also an active member and past commander of Brighton Post No. 80 of the American Legion. He was presented with his life membership by the Post in 1996. Jim was employed by the Canadian National Railroad until his retirement in 1983. For years, he made the trip from Island Pond to Portland, Maine. He also was conductor on many of the special passenger trains that traveled to Island Pond. Jim was an avid collector of sports memorabilia which he collected from all over the United States. A visit to Jim and Lorraine's home always included a tour of his "sports museum" which he displayed proudly. He was an avid hockey fan and some of his best times were spent attending hockey games with his good friend, Gaetan Valleires. His legacy will live on in his six children. He is survived by his wife of 62 years, Lorraine; a son, Richard of Rutland; five daughters, Linda and her husband Craig Goulet of Island Pond, Janis and her husband Burton Barnes of Island Pond, Christine Hill of Fair Haven, Eileen Bailey and Teresa Caouette of Island Pond; grandchildren, Christopher Goulet of Derby, Janet Warner of Canton, N.Y., Justin Goulet of Island Pond, Chad Phillips of Burlington, Tiffany Barnes of Essex Junction, Jodi and Craig Barnes of Island Pond, Michal Hill of Blacksburg, Va., Katherine Hill of Fair Haven, Anna Hill of Fair Haven, Katrina Caouette of Rutland, Jacob Bailey of Burlington, and Peter Bailey of Cape Cod, Mass.; and seven great-grandchildren. Calling hours were at the Curtis-Britch Converse-Rushford Funeral Home, 1199 Railroad St., Island Pond, Nov. 28, 7-9 p.m. A Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated Saturday, Nov. 29, at St. James Catholic Church in Island Pond at 12:30 p.m. with the Rev. William Morgan officiating. Interment will follow at the Lakeside Cemetery in Island Pond with full military honors. Should friends desire, contributions in Jim's memory may be made to the Brighton Rescue Squad at P.O. Box 456, Island Pond, VT 05846 or to St. James Catholic Church, P.O. Box 407, Island Pond, VT 05846. Arrangements are entrusted to the care of the Curtis-Britch Converse-Rushford Funeral Homes, locally family owned and operated.

, 37, passed away Nov. 27, 2003, the beloved son of Edward and Sheila Grimes, of Durham, Conn. Ed was a graduate of Philadelphia College of Art. He leaves a loving brother, Stephen H. Grimes, of Meriden, Conn.; four very favorite aunts, Sandra Ulmer, of West Burke, as well as Joyce Stange, Joyce Morley and Patricia Grimes, all of Meriden, Conn. He also leaves his uncle Gordon Ulmer, of Windsor, Conn.; several cousins, who all loved him dearly; and two very close friends, Jason Midthun and David Cunningham. Ed loved Vermont because of the beauty of its countryside and the friendliness of its people. He was an avid skier, hiker and photographer. He especially enjoyed Wednesday night street hockey at Lyndon State College. Ed touched many lives with his warm and outgoing nature. He will be greatly missed. Services will be held at the family's convenience at a later date. John Ferrys Funeral Home in Meriden, Conn., is in charge of arrangements. Donations in lieu of flowers may be made to Kingdom Kids at Burke Recreation and Education Fund Kingdom Kids, P.O. Box 195, East Burke, VT 05832.