Obituaries
Ava Sparkle Silverio February 5, 2026 - February 5, 2026 The world may never notice if a Snowdrop doesn’t bloom Or even pause to wonder if the petals fall too soon But every life that ever forms or ever comes to be Touches the world in some small way for all eternity The little one we longed for was swiftly here and gone But the love that was then planted is a light that still shines on And though your mom (Angelina), dad (Alan) and sister (Amelia) arms are empty, our hearts know what to do For every beating of our hearts says that we love you.
Penelope Ann Pollard September 5, 1959 - January 31, 2026 Penelope Ann Pollard, age 66, passed away January 31, 2026 at Rutland Regional Medical Center. Penny was born in Detroit, Michigan on September 5, 1959. She was the daughter of Robert and Verona (Pollak) Pollard. She came, with her family, to Rutland in 1972. She graduated from Rutland High School, class of 1977. Following graduation she joined the United States Air Force. Following her honorable discharge in 1986, she began working at Rutland Regional Medical Center in the food service department. From 1998 until 2018 she was employed in the Treasurer Office for the City of Rutland. She enjoyed gardening, her flowers, and canning vegetables. She loved her dogs; Lyla and Sebi. Surviving is her husband; Richard Stein; whom she married October 1, 2005, one daughter; Kass Pollux, 2 brothers; Thomas and John Pollard, 5 sisters; Tina, Rebecca and Mary Sue Pollard and Julie Murtha and Barbara Mitchell. Several nieces, nephews & cousins also survive her. She was predeceased by her parents and a brother Robert Pollard. A private burial will take place, at a later date, in Vermont Forest Cemetery in Roxbury. Memorial gifts in lieu of flowers may be made, in her memory to Rutland County Humane Society, 765 Stevens Road, Pittsford, VT 05763. Arrangements by Miller & Ketcham of Brandon.
Ellen Marian McCullough (Levison) February 14, 1945 - December 26, 2026 Ellen Marian McCullough (Levinson), of Chester, Vermont, passed away at the age of 80 at Albany Medical Center in Albany, New York on December 26th, 2025. Born on February 14, 1945, in Detroit, Michigan, Ellen lived a life full of warmth, curiosity, and connection. Vivacious and feisty, she was endlessly chatty and deeply loving — a woman who made friends everywhere she went and believed, truly, that there were no strangers in the world. Ellen was a cherished mother, a proud Nana, and a devoted friend. Survived by her children, Kristin Aduna, Josh McCullough (Meredith), and her three grandchildren — Jacob, Max, and Trevor — who brought her so much joy, pride and whom she loved fiercely. Ellen was a kind, supportive, brave and protective presence in the lives of her family and friends, the people who meant the world to her. Though she felt the loss of some throughout the years, she always cherished the relationships she grew and nourished over the many decades of her life. She was most certainly greeted with a raucous celebration filled with laughter, music, reminiscence and love after her soul’s transition from this earth. Ellen had a deep love for Vermont — its natural beauty, its history, and most of all, its people. She was absolutely in love with the state and the community she found there. Small in stature but enormous in spirit, she was known for greeting people with hugs that felt far too big, coming from the little lady who delivered them. She could, and regularly did, strike up a conversation with anyone, anywhere, and within moments, they had a friend for life. Ellen spent many years working in real estate, a perfect fit for her love of people, history, Vermont and storytelling. She was always eager to learn, share, and connect, leading to a wide web of lucky people touched by her passion, her welcoming smile and her deep knowledge of both the land and the culture of Vermont. The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the staff of Albany Medical Center and the Springfield Hospital Emergency Room for their care, compassion, and support. Ellen will be remembered for her welcoming heart, her fierce love, and the way she made the world feel smaller and kinder — one conversation, one hug, one friendship at a time. A natural burial is planned for her at Vermont Forest Cemetery in Roxbury on Saturday, January 3rd where she will have her final, permanent embrace with the land she loved so deeply. All are welcome. Should you choose to attend, please dress for winter weather. An informal memorial will be held at The Stone Hearth Inn in Chester on Sunday, January 4th at 11am. If you plan to attend either event, please RSVP on this website and also share a memory or two. In lieu of flowers and gifts, donations may be made in Ellen’s name to the Springfield Humane Society.
Elsa Talbot October 20th, 2025 Elsa Talbot of Bethel Vermont passed peacefully in her home on October 20th, 2025 surrounded by her two daughters and her sister. Elsa was born at Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center in 1950 and brought home to the family dairy farm in South Pomfret, Vermont. The youngest of 6 children Elsa enjoyed her early life on the farm, exploring the mountains, riding horses and skiing at Suicide Six. She attended Woodstock Country School and studied Education at Oregon College of Education, although, always committed to living life on her own terms, she left three credits short of completing her degree. Elsa's younger years were filled with adventure. She spent months hitchhiking through Europe and traveled extensively around the United States; at one point living in a teepee she sewed herself. When Elsa settled back in Vermont with her daughters, she became a beloved preschool teacher and fixture of the community. She began as cook at The Day Care Center in Norwich, Vermont before becoming a teacher at Mount Tom Preschool, Green Mountain Children's Center, and finally, Rainbow Playschool. Elsa excelled for over 40 years in early childhood education, making an outsized impact on generations of children in the Upper Valley. Elsa had a strong connection with young people, and children could always be heard laughing and giggling in her presence. Her preschool classroom was alive with all sorts of activities and nothing was too messy or too big of a project. This included hatching ducks, chickens, and sometimes emus every springtime as well as keeping a corn snake in her classroom that grew to be larger than many of her students. Elsa loved her job so much that she went back to school at the age of 66, when new legislation forced her to choose between finishing her degree or retiring. Elsa was a lifelong gardener, lover of music, and advocate of equality, peace, and justice. She took these passions to new heights when she retired in 2020. She could often be found at local concerts and protests, no matter the cold and rain. Her house overflowed with rare and beautiful plants; cared for with great detail. The garden she planted every year was frequented by hummingbirds and grandchildren alike, with Elsa invariably giving away most of her harvest to friends and family. Elsa will be forever remembered for her caring attitude, generosity, passionate opinions, and homemade bread. Elsa is survived by her sister, Sara Miller; her two daughters, Yarrow and Mika Fought; and her five grandchildren, Rye Fought, Cypress Levitt, Brio Levitt, Emry Kielty, and Brecken Kielty. Elsa was buried at the Forest Cemetery in Roxbury Vermont. A memorial will be held in Elsa's honor on Saturday, November 22nd from 2PM-4PM at The Artistree in South Pomfret, Vermont (Elsa's childhood farm). Attendees will be informally visiting, blowing bubbles, and remembering Elsa, all are welcome to join during this time. In lieu of flowers please make a donation in Elsa's name to Greenpeace or the Vermont Food Bank.
Pat Stimpson October 12, 2025 No obituary currently available.
Barbi Schreiber February 9, 1954 - August 22, 2025 Barbi Schreiber died peacefully in the early morning hours of August 22. Born in 1954 in Brooklyn, NY. Barbi earned her BFA at SUNY Fredonia, NY and MFA SF State University. Barbi was a published photographer in the San Francisco Bay Area and her work is archived at the Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, Transgender Historical Society of Northern California. After relocating to Vermont in 2001, she devoted a majority of her time working with local advocacy groups promoting sustainable and organic farming practices including protecting farmers’ rights. She was co-publisher of Vermont’s Local Banquet Magazine. She leaves behind her partner of 41 years, Meg, and her mountain of friends and caregivers across the country. Barbi’s body was returned to the earth on August 24 in a joyful celebration at the Vermont Forest Cemetery where she will nourish the forests that she loved. To honor her memory one can make a donation to The Margaret Pratt Community in Bradford, VT or the Vermont Forest Cemetery in Roxbury, VT. Barbi also invites you to take a walk in the woods and reflect on the wonder around you.
Jean A. Newberry January 17, 1985 - July 8, 2025 Jean Ann Newberry, age 40, passed away unexpectedly over the fourth of July weekend in Montpelier, Vermont. Jean Newberry was born in January 1985 at Gifford Memorial Hospital in Randolph, Vermont. Jean is survived by her son Mliki, parents Dean Newberry and Connie Olivet, stepmother Danielle Newberry, siblings, Andrew Olivet and Meghann Cline and step siblings Dovid Burns and Laura Greif and several nieces and nephews. Jean’s earliest days were at her family home in Randolph Center where her mother ran a home day care for the village children. In this setting, Jean began taking charge of her tiny peers, a passion of hers which she continued all of her life. She completed her senior high school year in a program at Vermont Technical College and went on to major in early childhood education. She followed in the footsteps of her aunt and mentor, Nancy Olivet, one of the first nursery teachers at Orchard Valley Waldorf School. Jean was a founding faculty member of the Sweet Clover Nursery in Montpelier and was the infant teacher there from 2016-2021. Sweet Clover is one of the first birth to three-year-old Waldorf Childcare centers in the United States. Jean co-founded and ran the Tulsi Tea Room in Montpelier which became a gathering place for mothers with young children. To better serve families with babies Jean started independently nannying, often bringing a couple of families together to form a nanny share. Music was always an important part of Jean’s life, humming along while cooking and caring for infants. She enjoyed singing with friends, sometimes belting out a song. Her singing expressed her joy for life. Jean left everyone whom she met a little more optimistic and cheerful than they had felt before she arrived. Jean loved to go camping and hiking with her son Mliki. She was so proud of his scholarship accomplishments and they often read books together in the evening. Jean’s gift of caring for babies and their families is legendary. The incredible outpouring of grief and support from the central Vermont community is evidence of the impact she had on each person who is fortunate enough to have met her.
James T. Higgins Jr., MD 1934-2025 We write to announce the death of our father, James T. Higgins Jr., MD. Throughout his long life, he was dedicated to medical research, education and practice. In his work and in his leisure, Jim was committed to nature and conservation, equity and inclusion, and civil rights. In the home, he was a supportive spouse, father and grandfather. In the laboratory, Jim made major contributions to medical science. The scientists who work unremarked by the public build the foundations for future advances, and that is very true for our dad’s research. He studied how membranes regulate the transport of materials in and out of the cell and applied this knowledge to early kidney dialysis and transplant experiments, contributing to the foundational knowledge needed for modern renal patient care. He was concerned to the end about how the cuts to science and health funding are destroying opportunities to improve our knowledge and challenging future health care for all. Practicing and teaching at medical schools for more than 40 years, Jim enriched others’ lives by teaching, mentoring and collaborating with generations of younger medical professionals. He dedicated himself to public service in medicine by volunteering at inner-city health clinics and only practicing at public hospitals, from Indianapolis to the Albany, N.Y., VA. His joy in medical science continued to the end, as he chatted, joked and quizzed the doctors, nurses and technicians providing care during his final illness. Outside of the lab and clinic, Jim’s primary hobby was woodworking. By the time he retired, he and Mom had built their dream house on the side of a mountain in upstate New York, where, when not working on the house, they took long walks in the woods. Together, they did all the interior wood and tile work. When living in such rural isolation was no longer safe, they moved to Burlington, Vt., to be closer to family. He and Mom had a rich, 69-year-long marriage, raising four children who were each successful in their ways, and he accepted that their children’s choices were different from theirs. The success of their children is reflected in the five grandchildren, again each different and unique in their own life choices. When Mom developed Alzheimer’s, Jim dedicated himself to her care, and he did not stop fighting death until satisfied of her continued care and safety. Jim kept his wits to the end, nine days shy of 91, and in that manner was granted what might be the ultimate piece of good fortune: the ability to choose when and how he wanted to die. He passed away peacefully, surrounded by family, at 6:05 p.m. on July 4, 2025, at University of Vermont Medical College in Burlington, Vt. He is survived by spouse Laurel Higgins; children Linden, Tom, Chandler and John; grandchildren Haley, Lauren, Gailin, Mynard and Rebekah; step-grandchildren Jonathon and Ashleigh; and great-granddaughter Penelope.
Margaret Bullock Wade January 31, 1963 - January 19, 2026 Margaret “Margo” Bullock Wade, 62, of Warren, Vermont, passed away peacefully at home on January 19, 2026, following a courageous battle with ovarian cancer. Born in Worcester, MA, on January 31,1963, to Augustus “Gus” George Bullock Jr. and Elizabeth “Beth” Lund Bullock, Margo grew up in a tightknit community of family and friends in Princeton, exploring the trails of Blueberry Hill, Wachusett Mountain, the Mad River Valley and the waters of Narragansett Bay around Jamestown, RI. “Gogo” and her three siblings were raised with a strong appreciation for family, outdoor adventure, and the practical skills to solve just about any issue with creativity, common sense, duct tape, and a can of old hardware bits. Margo attended Bancroft School and graduated from Wachusett Regional High School in 1982. She spent the next five years skiing around New England, especially the Mad River Valley, with adventures west to Copper Mountain and Crested Butte, Colorado. As a kid, she learned to sail and race on Sugarbush, a 30-foot Shields sloop that was owned by the Bullocks and two other Jamestown and Mad River Valley families. That prepared her to join the crew of Tivoli, a 72-foot Sangermani yawl, aboard which she worked for a year, sailing around the Caribbean and New England. In 1992 she enrolled at the University of Massachusetts in Amherst as a gritty and persistent non-traditional student. After building her community through potlucks, mountain biking, environmentalism, trail work, and music, she proudly graduated in 1997 with a degree in Natural Resources and a minor in Environmental Sciences. Margo met Geoff Wade in 1994 through a shared love of mountain biking, and they moved to Warren, VT, in 1998. Margo worked for the town of Warren Planning and Zoning Office until 2003, where she chaired the Conservation Commission, the Board of Civil Authority, and was a Justice of the Peace. This work helped to develop her passion for civic engagement, empowering local citizens to take an active role in building and stewarding community and natural resources. Margo and Geoff were married in 1999 and continued mountain biking and skiing together in The Valley and beyond. As they prepared to welcome their twin sons, Jackson and Ross, in 2004, they tore down the old rustic Bullock family house in Warren to build their home while both worked full time. They moved into the new garage and studio shortly after the boys were born, and into the house in 2007. In 2003, Margo joined Sugarbush Resort as the resort planner, where she was able to perfectly blend her experience as a skier, environmentalist, municipal employee and engaged citizen for the benefit of the resort and local community alike. She brought to bear her planning and compliance expertise to help transform Sugarbush into the modern resort that exists today. During her 22-year career at Sugarbush, Margo left a mark on every building, chair lift, stream, sidewalk, the water in the taps and in the snow guns. She championed the resort’s environmental impact, overseeing solar projects, managing waste streams, and creating the Resort’s “Trash Talkers” program. She spearheaded a partnership with the Mad River Valley Bear Initiative, and led the annual Green Up Day, among other initiatives. She sought out ways for the resort to support and contribute to the greater Mad River Valley community and found novel ways to make Sugarbush one of most sustainable resorts in the Alterra Mountain Company portfolio. Margo was ambitious and held herself and those around her to very high standards. She pushed Sugarbush and the greater Valley community to innovate and improve their environmental stewardship. Her personal and professional conservation efforts knew no bounds, from her veggie diesel VW in the 2000s, to the bear safety dumpster video in which she recently starred. They were surpassed only by her love of and faith in family, community, and humankind. She was a willing and respected mentor for many in her circle, eager to listen, share ideas and problem-solve through all life and career stages. Her heart and her door were open to all those who came into her orbit. There was always room at the house for anyone in town, whether for a meal, a night, or to catch your breath and fix a flat on the way over the gap. Margo lived her life ready for an adventure, whether a morning ski with The Breakfast Babes, a long bike ride, a sail, or a Newport harbor tour. Throughout Margo’s journey with cancer, she was supported by family and her very strong and unstoppable group of friends: driving to appointments, bringing many delicious meals, joining her for midday walks, and going to concerts all over New England. A brave, creative and curious woman, Margo lived each day to the fullest. She was an inspiration to all who knew and loved her. She was incredibly proud of the family she and Geoff built with Jackson and Ross. Perhaps her greatest joy came from watching the boys grow up, as they charted their own paths through Warren School, Harwood and into early adulthood. In addition to her sons, Ross and Jackson, and her husband, Geoff, Margo leaves behind her mother Beth Bullock, of Brunswick, Maine, her siblings Liza Chandler, of North Yarmouth, Maine, Geo Bullock (Ginny) of Crested Butte, Colorado, Nina Bullock Lutz (Jörg) of Ofterdingen, Germany and and her aunt, Prim Bullock of Jamestown, RI. She also leaves behind nieces, nephews, two great nieces, a great nephew and countless cousins and friends to whom her door was always open. Donations in Margo’s honor can be made to the Mad River Valley Community Fund (P.O. Box 353, Waitsfield, VT 05673) or another charity of your choice. A celebration of Margo’s life will be held in The Valley this spring. Details will be published at a later date.
Rachel Pianka December 12, 2024 No obituary currently available.
Marjorie Dickstein October 12th, 2025 Marjorie K. Dickstein, 58, of Starksboro, passed away on Sunday, October 12, 2025, at McClure Miller Respite House in Colchester.
Bonita Marie "Bon Bon" Cummings November 26, 1959 - October 6, 2025 Bonita Marie “Bon Bon” Cummings, 65, passed away peacefully on October 6, 2025, in Berlin, Vt. Born on November 26, 1959, in Burlington, Vt., Bonnie lived a life defined by resilience, generosity and an unwavering positive spirit that left a lasting impression on all who knew her. A proud graduate of Winooski High School, Bonnie went on to serve her country with distinction in the Vermont Army National Guard as part of Company D, 50th Medical Division. Her time in the military was just one example of her lifelong commitment to service and strength. Bonnie’s professional journey was as diverse and unique as her personality. She drove buses and taught children to swim as director of Summer Girls Camp through Burlington Boys & Girls Club. She worked at IBM, Ricoh and Ubeo as a printer technician while simultaneously dedicating herself to helping others through her work at multiple homeless shelters across Vermont. Whether in a corporate setting or on the front lines of community support, Bonnie brought the same fierce dedication, compassion and relational approach to every role she held. Her customers, oncology staff and all who met her loved her. To know her was to not be a stranger to Bon. She was a woman who could fix anything — literally and figuratively. Known for her ability to come up with a solution to all broken things, Bonnie was the go-to person when something needed mending. Her hands were always busy — whether repairing what was broken or reaching out to help someone in need. Bonnie’s love for the outdoors was legendary. She found joy in fishing, hunting, swimming and adventuring with her beloved partner, Tina Bleau. These moments spent in nature were among her happiest — filled with laughter, exploration and connection. She also cherished quiet times reading or simply being surrounded by friends and family. To those who knew her best, Bonnie was “Honest Bon” — raw and hardheaded, with a heart as big as the sky. Her colorful language often came wrapped around words of wisdom or fierce loyalty. She had a constant smile and an unmatched willingness to give the shirt off her back. Bonnie didn’t need accolades; she let her actions speak volumes. From a young age, she paved the way for other women through sheer determination and quiet strength. And damn, what a softball player she was! Bonnie is survived by her daughters, Sophia and Maya Kotkes-Cummings; her partner, Tina Bleau; brothers John Cummings, Bernie Cummings (Linda), Robin Cummings (Lisa) and Glenn Cummings (Ronalynn); sisters, Cindy Parizo (Homer) and Judy Reed (Damon); sister-in-law Sue Cummings; Tina’s children, Jacob and Nick Bleau (mother truckers); and nieces and nephews too numerous to mention — each of whom adored their “coolest aunt ever.” She was predeceased by her brother Dan Cummings and parents, Anita and Bernie Cummings. A big thanks to the staff at Central Vermont Medical Center Oncology/Hematology, nurses/doctors at CVMC medical, her family, Central Vermont Home Health & Hospice, and Vermont Forest Cemetery staff, for loving her through and brightening our lives through such a hard time. To Doctor Ospina, she loved you, and you fought hard with her. May the memory of Bonita Marie “Bon Bon (Aunt Bon Bon), Mummy, Nob, Nerdy Nerd, Bon Seron and My Big, Big Love” Cummings bring comfort to those who loved her and inspiration to all who carry forward her legacy of honesty, strength and boundless generosity. A burial will be held on October 9, 2025, 11 a.m. to noon, at Vermont Forest Cemetery, 750 Beaver Meadow Rd., Roxbury VT. Reception to follow at Bon and Tina’s home. A celebration of life will happen at a later date, where stories will be shared, laughter will echo, and memories will be honored — as she would have wanted.
Lorna Etta Jimerson April 6, 1945 - July 27, 2025 Lorna Etta Jimerson, 80, of Charlotte, Vermont, passed away peacefully at home on July 27, 2025. She is survived by her husband, Dr. Robert Jimerson; daughters Amber, Katrina, and Becky; sons-in-law Todd Smith and Mike Minchin; six grandchildren; and her beloved dog, Willow. She was predeceased by her parents, Ruth and Israel Zeitlin, and her brother, Mark Zeitlin. Born in Philadelphia, Lorna earned degrees from the University of Pennsylvania; California State University, Long Beach (M.A. in Psychology); and the University of Vermont (Ed.D.). She engaged in researching school choice, rural education, and equity. Her compassion made her a superb therapist, and while working at the Counseling Service of Addison County she helped develop an innovative in-home approach to supporting struggling families. An avid lifelong learner, Lorna taught in the classroom, supported her own children's learning at home, and brought that same dedication to her community through advocacy. Elected to the Charlotte School Board, she advanced into a leadership role, also serving on the Champlain Valley Union High School Board and representing her district to the Vermont State School Board. She worked tirelessly to ensure every child had the opportunity to learn and thrive. Her public service extended beyond education. Lorna volunteered for Madeline Kunin's historic gubernatorial campaign and championed environmental conservation, women's rights, and public media. Outside of her professional and civic commitments, Lorna enjoyed spending time with her children and grandchildren-whether on the slopes of Mad River, sledding in the backyard, or hiking through the forest. Her passions also included coaxing both vegetables and flowers from Vermont's finicky soil and weather, spending time with barn animals and her large dogs, pursuing endless knitting projects, listening to Bob Dylan, and savoring Ben & Jerry's ice cream. She will be remembered not only for her accomplishments, but also for her warmth, wit, and the way she made others feel loved, valued, and heard. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Vermont Land Trust or Vermont Public/NPR.
Normal Illsley July 24, 2025 No obituary currently available.
Nick LaPlaca June 3, 2025 Nick J. LaPlaca of Queensbury, NY, died peacefully at home on June 3, 2025 after fighting and living courageously with brain cancer since last August. He was 55. It’s true that he died young, and was diagnosed with cancer just weeks after he won his second ever paddle board race on open water in Long Island Sound in Connecticut, the latest among many lifelong feats of physical endurance. He fought with dignity, courage, and integrity, and sometimes with humor, against an undignified and unrelenting opponent. It’s also true that he packed more life into his 55 years than many people do with 30 more - a statement he actually made, quite matter-of-factly, to family and friends in the latter stages of his fight. LaPlaca, a 1987 graduate of Whitehall (NY) High School, was a proud United States Marine from 1988-92, achieving the rank of corporal. He served his country in Operation Desert Storm in Kuwait during his tour of duty, which was a source of immense family pride. Among his many commendations: Kuwait Liberation Medal, Expert Rifle Badge 2D Award and National Defense Service Medal. He was discharged honorably. Shortly after the Marines, he joined the United States Postal Service, first in Lake George, NY, and then in Glens Falls, NY. He formally retired from the post office in April 2025 after 31 years of dedicated service. Rarely did he take time off, just one example of the tireless work ethic he brought to everything he did. LaPlaca was constantly curious and always adventurous. He was largely self-taught, and challenged himself to master everything he attempted, from computers, to running, bicycling, and most recently, paddle boarding. He was fascinated with computers and taught himself to build his own. He tried skydiving once, and then became a jump master, having taken numerous customers for their adventure of a lifetime and having jumped over 1100 times. From skydiving, he turned to long distance bicycling and rode numerous century rides on a road bike and a fixed gear bike. He found running and would at times run a marathon after work, and he entered and finished seven marathons, always trying to beat his previous times. He started his paddle boarding adventure on Lake Bomoseen, then the home of his future wife, Alix. He handily won the only two races he entered. Among his pets during his life: a ball python and a tarantula. He prided himself on his homemade pizza, bread and beer, which he would heartily consume after running one of his marathons or his long-distance bike rides. He paddle boarded the entire length of Lake George without stopping – three times! He did kettlebell workouts while undergoing chemotherapy treatments. He will be remembered for his smile and mischievous laugh. He made lasting friendships along the way, but more importantly, he will be remembered for the impact he had on so many; the silver lining in all this is that those closest to him had the opportunity to tell him that before he passed. LaPlaca is survived by his wife, Alix Vander Els, a constant companion in all his pursuits and a dedicated caregiver during his battle; siblings Chris LaPlaca (wife Leah) of Farmington, CT; Laurie Wilbur (husband Francis) of Whitehall; Damian LaPlaca of San Juan, Puerto Rico; and several nieces and nephews. He is predeceased by his parents, Nick and Pat LaPlaca of Whitehall, New York. Burial will be private. Family and friends will plan a celebration of life later this year. Those wishing to make donations in LaPlaca’s honor can do so in support of the Green Mountain Conservation Camp, C/O Edward F Kehoe Camp, 636 Point of Pines Road, Castleton, VT 05735, which provides young people opportunities to engage in outdoor pursuits:
Iris Rollins-Greene June 13, 2025 Iris Rollins-Greene was, and always will be, a creative and gorgeous soul, a unique light, hilarious and sweet, gifted in the arts, with a sharp mind and a serious side-eye. She is adored and loved fiercely, and losing her leaves us all in a bittersweet place of knowing that nothing will be the same after this. She is so missed, and accepting her physicality being gone is just barely beginning.
Patricia Ann Marx October 6, 1929 - May 19, 2025 Pat loved to tell stories of growing up with her caring and sociable Swedish father Herbert Andrew Johnson (Johannesson) and reserved mother Catherine Elizabeth Johnson (née Mitchell) in the vibrant immigrant neighborhood of Inwood in New York City, then later in Yonkers, NY. She credited growing up a single child for her passion for cinema, reading, music, and art. Her eyes lit up when she told stories of going to double features with her mother, visiting the Morgan Library, or seeing Glenn Miller and Frank Sinatra with her college friends. Bright and curious, editor of her high school paper, after graduating from Finch College and Packard Business School, she was proud to have worked at the Research Institute of America with Leo Cherne, leader of the International Rescue Committee and advocate for liberation and sanctuary for some of the world’s most persecuted people. Later, as a real estate agent she was applauded for her commitment to Fair Housing and as a Census lead assured people from all walks of life were counted, memorably bringing a pocket copy of the constitution to one reluctant person to show that counting everyone was enshrined in our founding document. Pat married Roland Marx in 1952 at the Eglise de la Madeleine in Paris, where many of Roland’s extended family lives and where he was stationed after the war. They returned to live in Paris where she learned the French language and culture and traveled throughout Europe and beyond. Her artistic sensibility shone in her style, quilting, restoration, and more. Mom/Mama was greatly loved by and loving to her four children, twelve grandchildren, and six great grandchildren (so far). “La famille avant tout,” she devoted herself to supporting their many dreams and aspirations. A fabulous cook, delicious food was the center of many large family gatherings, for the past decades in and around Belmont, Vermont. Wherever she lived, Pat formed enduring friendships. Her stories about those friends were hilarious, heartbreaking, and imbued with warmth. You could count on Pat to be kind and helpful, then turn your head with her quick dry wit. Too many to mention, thank you all for making her life more meaningful, engaged, and fun. Pat was an active community member and leader. As a girl she knitted sweaters for WWII navy sailors. Later she launched a chapter of the League of Women Voters, helped preserve Turkey Mountain in Yorktown NY where she served on the Conservation Advisory Council, supported three Friends of the Library, and much more. Into her nineties she was writing postcards to get progressive democratic candidates elected to office. Pat/Mom/Mama is celebrated by her husband Roland Marx; her children Robert Marx (Nancy Pendleton), Audrey Alonis (née Marx, Joe Alonis), Brendan Marx (formerly Sandi née Handelman and Renee née Laverdiere DiLauro), and Elisabeth Marx (John Marco); her twelve grandchildren Hayden Marx, William Marx, Andrew Alonis (Jane Fairchild), Patrick Alonis, Amelia Alonis, Kira Marx (bientôt James Seidman), Lindsey Marx (Michael Rappaport), Ryan Marx (Lauren Wiener), Colette DiLauro (Tony Cennamo), Celeste DiLauro, Linus Marco (Kayla Feldman), Nina Marco; and her great-grandchildren Walter Alonis, Jack and Jordon Rappaport, and Joel, Luke, and Connor Marco. Pat had a natural burial surrounded by family at the Vermont Forest Cemetery. This summer her family will host a remembrance and celebration of her life, where we will lift a glass and offer her favorite toast: “Mein Skol, Dein Skol, Alle Vakkera Flikka Skol!”
Priya Ramcharan Hattiangdi October 31, 2024 No obituary currently available.
Sarena Roome Palmer October 8, 2024 No obituary currently available.
Sylas Ray Conley-Lowry September 27, 2024 No obituary currently available.
Gabriel A. "Gabe" Faraone, Jr. August 24, 2024 Gabriel A. (Gabe) Faraone, Jr., beloved husband of Elaine (Gefis) Faraone, passed away peacefully, on August 24, at the age of 73, surrounded by his immediate family, at the Jack Byrnes Palliative Care and Hospice Center, in Lebanon, New Hampshire. He will be forever missed by his son, D. Michael Faraone, of Tampa, Florida, and his daughter, Katherine A. Faraone, of Boston, Massachusetts. Gabe also leaves behind a sister, Anne M. Spinks, of Ballston Spa, New York. Gabe and Elaine had moved just a year ago from Saint Petersburg, Florida, to Brandon, Vermont, to enjoy the mountains, hiking, photography, and lifestyle. Unfortunately, around the time of moving, his health began to decline, and he was unable to fully enjoy his new home of Vermont. Just a few days before his death, he was diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), following months of incorrect diagnoses. According to his wishes, Gabe was laid to rest in the Vermont Forest Cemetary, to give his body back to the forest, a place that he so loved. The Day Funeral Home assisted with arrangements.
Kathleen (Katie, Cathy) (Mulvey) Reilley August 10, 2024 Kathleen (Katie, Cathy) (Mulvey) Reilley, 74, passed away at her home in Bristol on 8/10/2024 after a heroic fight with melanoma that had moved to her brain. Born in Jamaica, Long Island, Kate and her family moved to upstate Taghkanic, New York, in the early 1950’s with her parents Agnes and Jack and older sister Marian. She was educated in a one room schoolhouse where each row was a different grade. From there she transitioned to St. Mary’s Catholic School in Hudson. Kate continued into higher education, first at SUNY Oneonta, then Dutchess County Community College, and then earning her degree at Prescott College in Prescott, Arizona, while living in a trailer in Chino Valley. Ultimately, Kate received a Master’s Degree in Environmental Studies from the University of New Haven in Connecticut. Kate had a great summer with her sister visiting relatives in Ireland having traveled across “the pond” on the Mauretania II when she was 10. She lived for a while in Poughkeepsie, New York, with a unique cast of characters – you know who you are. Kate held many positions throughout her career, starting as a draftsman/designer at Rusack Engineering in New York. From there she worked as a site developer for PRC in Cape Canaveral, Florida. After moving back to the northeast, Kate was a developer for Greiner Engineering in Connecticut and then became a permit specialist for the State of Connecticut. Eventually she opened her own consulting firm, KMR Environmental Planners after which she worked as the Open space manager for the town of Fairfield CT prior to moving to VT. Kate’s last position was as assistant to the Town Clerk in New Haven, Vermont, processing grants. While working at Greiner Engineering, Kate met her future husband Gerard (Jerry). They married in 1985 and their daughter Shannon was born in 1987. They lived in Connecticut for many years and moved to Bristol, Vermont, in 2001. Kate was passionate about many things. She had two horses—first Snowed Under and then Neptuno, who is now 30. She performed with Neptuno in a demonstration of human dancing and equestrian performance known as Dancing with Horses. Another love was cooking – she rarely repeated a meal with the same recipe and always created fresh, wholesome food. Gardening was a great love, particularly beans and lots of garlic. Travel was also high on her list of enjoyments. Kate was passionate about the preservation of land for future generations and was an active member of land trusts in both Connecticut and Vermont while living in each state. Kate has been known at various times in her life as Legs Mulvey and Katie, Katie the Hors D’oeuvre lady. She is survived by her husband Jerry, daughter Shannon, sister Marian with husband John Godfrey of Oxford, New York, and niece Christine of Binghamton, New York, as well as a great nephew Matthew, and various cousins. Kate was buried at the Vermont Forest Cemetery on Tuesday, August 13th, in a very private and beautiful ceremony where she will become part of the earth she loved so much. On Saturday, August 24 th , at 11AM, we will gather at St. Ambrose Church in Bristol, VT for a funeral mass celebrating her life. The church’s address is 11 School St., Bristol VT. After the mass, please join us for a luncheon at Rosie’s Restaurant, 886 Route 7 South, Middlebury, VT. We will also be streaming the service on zoom. RSVP link is for everyone, but please make sure to send it in if you want the zoom link to join the memorial livestream. https://forms.gle/PhXSMWmH5eVsGGUHA In Lieu of flowers please donate to the Addison County Home, Health and Hospice or the Vermont Land Trust. The Day Funeral Home in Randolph is assisting the family with arrangements.
Sean Adam Howard June 19, 2024 No obituary currently available.
Diane G. Perley, April 18, 1958 - May 9, 2024 Diane G. Perley, 66, passed away suddenly in her Essex, VT home on Thursday May 9th. Born in Medford, OR on April 18th, 1958, she was a beloved daughter, sister, mother, grandmother, partner and friend. After earning her Bachelors in Environmental Engineering at RPI in 1980 she spent her career helping municipalities access and maintain clean water and other environmental goals. A devoted mother to her two daughters; she climbed glass towers, so we could climb sandy hills, and one day for others to have open plains. She faced many professional and personal hurdles over the years, but never let them dampen her independent spirit. She is predeceased by her parents Robert "Bud" and Edna Ricks Larson, her sister and brother-in-law Linda and David Boston. She is survived by her daughters and their spouses Sarah and Andrew Matt, and E Kimbal Perley and Jaques Dupuis, her grandchildren Eleanor "Ellie" and Thomas "Tommy" Matt and her partner of 12 years Joseph Saruda. Thank you to the Pinecrest community for all of their outreach during this difficult time. A private family burial was held at the Vermont Forest Cemetery. Visiting hours will be held at Corbin and Palmer Funeral Home.
John Maurice Duffy February 7, 2024 No obituary currently available.
Douglas Ellington D'Leo December 30, 2023 No obituary currently available.
Carolyn Joyce Bernstein November 19, 2023 No obituary currently available.
Jean Reiser Arrowsmith November 1, 2023 No obituary currently available.
Brendan Marx May 31, 2025 Brendan Marx, 67, a devoted father, accomplished attorney, and cherished member of the Scarsdale community, passed away on May 31, surrounded by his loved ones, after a courageous five-month battle with glioblastoma, an aggressive form of brain cancer. Known for his quiet strength, kindness, and unwavering integrity, Brendan leaves behind a legacy of exemplary legal work, boundless love for his family, and a deep commitment to serving others. Over a career spanning more than four decades, Brendan practiced law in New York with great distinction, culminating as a Principal at Offit Kurman. His clients included individuals, businesses, and organizations across a wide array of industries—from education and entertainment to manufacturing and nonprofit sectors. He was especially proud to represent charities, cooperative corporations, and condominium associations. Colleagues and clients alike described him as a brilliant litigator and one of the kindest people they’d ever met. Brendan was born in Bronxville, NY, on December 9, 1957, to his parents, Roland and Patricia (Johnson) Marx and raised in Yorktown Heights with his three siblings. His childhood was filled with joy and adventure, shaped by parents who instilled in him the value of education, hard work, and above all, family. During middle school, Brendan’s family relocated to Paris, France - a place that awakened in him a deep connection to his heritage. Though not one for tattoos, he often joked that if he ever got one, it would say “La famille avant tout” ("Family above all"). He continued studying and practicing French throughout his life. Service to others was central to who Brendan was. He devoted countless hours to charitable work, most notably through Hitchcock Presbyterian Church’s Midnight Run Program, where he regularly prepared and delivered food and clothing to the homeless in New York City for the past 15 years. His children have vivid memories of visiting Blythedale Children’s Hospital, delivering Thanksgiving turkeys to families in need in the Bronx, and welcoming a young girl into their home through the Fresh Air Fund. While Brendan would be embarrassed to receive the accolade, he was a serious athlete - a marathon runner, cyclist and triathlete at the highest level. His favorite sport was skiing, although he did it less regularly. Less than 10 years ago, he became an IronMan champion. Brendan instilled in his children a love for running and biking. Weekends were filled with family bike rides, local 5k races, triathlons and impromptu backyard obstacle courses. Above all his roles, Brendan’s greatest joy was being a father. He loved his three kids more than anything. His children describe growing up with him as “like magic,” recalling weekend adventures that ranged from hiking, white water rafting, to building life-sized igloos and sleeping under the stars in their backyard. He is survived by his three children Kira Marx, her fiancé James Seidman, Lindsey Rappaport (Marx), son-in-law Michael Rappaport, Ryan Marx, and daughter-in-law Lauren Marx (Wiener); his beloved life partner Melissa Beverly; his former wife and mother of his three children Sandi Marx and their stepfather Keith Marshall; his father Roland Marx; his three siblings and their partners Robert Marx (Nancy Marx), Audrey Alonis (Joe Alonis), Elisabeth Marx (John Marco); his stepdaughters Colette and Celeste DiLauro; his grandchildren Jack and Jordan Rappaport; and his seven nieces and nephews Hayden Marx, William Marx, Andrew Alonis, Patrick Alonis, Amelia Alonis, Linus Marco, and Nina Marco. Brendan’s memory and impact will remain with each of them every day.
Jeannie Mallory April 2, 2024 No obituary currently available.
Judith Alder Wood October 25, 2024 No obituary currently available.
Brenda Ward Heath-Fitts October 2, 2024 No obituary currently available.
Sharonlee Barron Trefry May 1, 1953 - September 17, 2024 Sharonlee Barron Trefry, age 71 died peacefully at her home in Hinesburg, Vermont on Tuesday September 17, 2024, with family by her side. She succumbed after managing the progressive physical disabilities caused by ALS for the past three or more years. Sharonlee was born in Corvallis, Oregon on May 1, 1953, to William D. Barron and the late Pauline C. Barron on May 1, 1953. She married Jonathan Trefry on March 22, 1975, and built a home and family in Hinesburg, Vermont. Sharonlee is known for her ability to bring people together for a purpose. As a school nurse she created networks of support for families to improve the health of the whole family, not just the child that was under her care at school. As an advocate for school nursing, she participated in leadership roles in the Vermont State School Nurse Association, the National Association of State School Consultants, and the National Association of School Nurses. Sharonlee was also an active member of the United Church of Hinesburg and loved gathering and celebrating with family. She left a legacy of love, connection, and support that will last our lifetimes. A walk with Sharonlee meant many stops to appreciate the flowers and birds along the way. She had a memory for bird songs, and flower species. Much of her appreciation for nature was learned through years of Girl Scouts, summers at her family's camp in Maine, and gardening with friends. Sharonlee received her associate's degree in nursing in 1974 from the University of Vermont. She worked in the operating room at the Medical Center in Burlington for a few years before being recruited by two orthopedic surgeons to become the Orthopedic Nurse Consultant in the Handicapped Children’s Services division of the State Health Department. Sharonlee took a leave of absence from that program to return to nursing school at UVM, where she received a Bachelor of Science degree in 1980. Sharonlee returned to the State Health Department where she stayed until her second child, Cameron, was born. The following eight years Sharonlee was self-employed as a Home Child Care Provider, caring for her two children and as many as 6 others ranging in age from 3 months to 10 years. She cared for 35 children in that 8-year period. Upon Closing her Child Care business, she returned to nursing working in the UVM Office of Rural Education, Migrant Education Program where she developed a home health curriculum and worked with migrant farm families, providing health services, referrals, and home to school medical coordination. In 1996 she began working as the school nurse in Bristol Elementary School where she remained until 2007. While still working as the Bristol school nurse she was accepted in 2004 to the master's program for nursing leadership in health care systems at Regis University. She interrupted those studies in 2006 to take advantage of a Fellowship at UVM for Children and Youth with Neurodevelopmental and Related Disabilities where the focus was on case management and collaboration to support children, their families, and the educational team. After completion of the Fellowship program in 2007 Sharonlee returned to Regis, receiving her master's degree in 2008. Sharonlee received honorary recognition throughout her nursing career from State and National School Nurse Associations for the advocacy and leadership roles she played. She is survived by her husband Jonathan Trefry; daughter Rhianna Trefry Bernal and husband Juan Andres Bernal of Boston, MA; son Cameron Trefry and wife Kate Trefry of Glen Ellyn, IL; four grandchildren Juan Mateo and Mariel Bernal, and Cameron and Mia Trefry; her father William D. Barron; her brother Jeff Barron and sister-in-law Lori Barron; her sister-in-law Kathy Barron; her brother John Barron; and nephews and niece Isaac Barron, John Butterfield, and Amy Butterfield. She is predeceased by her mother Pauline Barron and infant brother William Barron Jr. Sharonlee’s family is grateful to the ALS Clinic Professionals for their care and assistance throughout this process, to the UVM Home Health and Hospice team for their compassion and competence, for the outpouring of love from members of the Church community, for the love and care provided by Sharonlee’s many friends and family, and for the team of caregivers provided by the Home Instead agency. Together they helped lift Sharonlee’s spirit. A service will be held on September 22, 2024, at 3 p.m. at the United Church of Hinesburg. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the United Church of Hinesburg or the Vermont State School Nurses Association.
Noelle Glouchevitch December 24, 1931 - August 14, 2024 And the day came when the risk to remain tight in a bud was more painful than the risk it took to blossom. -Anais Nin. Noelle Glouchevitch was born in Philadelphia, PA on December 24, 1931 and took her last breath in her home in Burlington, VT on August 14, 2024. Noelle’s parents, Jeanne and Rene Winninger, flew back to France with Noelle when she was 6 months old; she did not return to the US until the age of 17, after living through the war years with her beloved grandmother. The war shaped Noelle’s life profoundly, as do all lived experiences of the upheaval, shock and barbarity of war. She spoke little of the degradation and death she witnessed, but reminisced about the strength and love of her grandmother over those years. Noelle raised 3 daughters: Louise, Joan and Helene in Burlington, VT and Princeton, NJ with her first husband, Henry Arnold. Her second marriage to Jean. Glouchevitch brought 3 stepsons: Michel, Nick and Philip. Sadly, Jean died 7 years after their vows. Noelle worked throughout her life as a French teacher, demanding her pupils execute the French vowels with as much precision as could be mustered! Many of her students and their families became lifelong friends. Like many Frenchwomen, Noelle enjoyed fresh, well-prepared food, good wine and cheese, fine art and lively conversation. She loved being with friends and family, listening to classical music, walks in the woods, playing scrabble with Joan, and she drew energy and solace from nature. Noelle was committed to learning taking classes at Champlain College and the University of Vermont, and devoting much of her time to reading. Noelle also leaves 3 adored grandchildren: Chloe Kirkwood, Kamli and Zane Faour, along with her “son” Eric Iida and his dear wife, Meg Hawley, the steadfast Karen Glouchevitch, and her thoughtful and loving friend of many years, Jeanne Plo. There are many more friends and neighbors whose love, kindness and support made Noelle’s last years, months and days possible, even joyful. We would be remiss not to mention Noelle’s amazing compassionate caregivers, Trudy and Raquel from Green Mountain Total Care, who helped our mother depart this world with dignity, humor and love. We will remember Noelle as an indomitable woman with a resolute spirit, both demanding and kind.
Jeremy William Ingpen April 5, 1984 - April 28, 2024 Jeremy William Ingpen died on April 28, 2024 at his hotel in the Philippines. Jeremy, known as Jay, was the son of Jeremy N. Ingpen and Elizabeth M. Champagne. He was born April 5, 1984, at Gifford Memorial Hospital, and spent his early years in Randolph, Vt. He attended Randolph Elementary School and then moved with his mother to St. Johnsbury, to attend St. Johnsbury Academy. During his years at St. Johnsbury Academy, Jay sang with the Hilltones, and acted in dramatic productions. As a senior, he was awarded a National Merit Scholarship, and also the Academy classics prize. He graduated from Wesleyan University, Middletown, Conn., with honors in Music. At Wesleyan, he studied musical performance with Neely Bruce and Anthony Braxton. During his college years, he worked summers for the VT State Parks, in Island Pond and Groton, which he greatly enjoyed. A highlight of his childhood had been annual camping trips to Maidstone State Park. After graduation he worked in White Plains, N.Y. in the financial services industry. This brief career was halted by the 2008 banking crisis. After being laid off, Jay began a journey of spiritual exploration that took him to Los Angeles and Sedona, Arizona, before returning to New York. In his mid-20s he was diagnosed with bipolar disorder. This took him on another journey through New York’s psychiatric hospitals and homeless shelters. Eventually, he determined that he could live on his monthly stipend in the Phillipines, and for the past five years he had lived in Manila, composing music and playing improvisational guitar and piano. He truly loved the country, the culture, and the many friends he made while living abroad. Despite his mental health struggles, those who knew Jay always knew his kindness and generosity. He truly cared for everyone in his life and was always looking out for those around him. He assisted local families financially during the COVID crisis. Most recently, he had moved in with his fiancee, Reyna Robredillo, and they were planning a life together. We are able to take comfort in knowing that in these past few months, he had found happiness, as conveyed in his last emails to his family and friends. Jay is survived by his mother, Elizabeth M. Champagne, his father and stepmother, Jeremy Ingpen and Manya Bouteneff, his siblings, Jamie, Elsa, and Cameron, his step-sister Sylvie Djian, his nephews and niece, Gus, Silas, Belle, and Zeke, and his fiancee, Reyna Robredillo.
Olive Elizabeth Seton January 6, 2002 - May 16, 2024 Olive Elizabeth Sedon died on May 16, 2024, in Bradford, Vt., after finally succumbing to a long and protracted illness. Olive burst like a comet into her family’s life when she was born on January 6, 2002. Even as a baby, Olive had a fully developed personality that was by turns dramatic, hilarious, stunningly precocious and heartbreakingly sweet. Very particular in her tastes and preferences, Olive loved to lay in bed with her parents many mornings and look at books of flower photos while drinking a blueberry smoothie. Before she was a year old, she walked and talked, and she had a lot to say. She would challenge (and sometimes confound) her parents to explain things such as how the universe could possibly be limitless or why animals so often had to suffer. Olive grew up at her family’s home on Dickerman Hill in Tunbridge. She loved to roam the gardens, fields and forests, delighting in the insects and animals she would encounter. Olive had a strong affinity and empathy for animals her entire life. She bonded with her pet mice and dogs but also with baby birds that had fallen from their nests. With a brave, adventurous spirit and a limitless imagination, she led her little brother, Metro, on many quests and arduous journeys to discover the dragons and other strange creatures that inhabited distant woods and pastures. This spirit never left her, and whether it was living on a sailboat in the North Atlantic, climbing a challenging peak or completing an epic mountain bike ride, Olive almost never said no to an adventure. A natural athlete, Olive easily mastered difficult skills and especially enjoyed snowboarding, surfing and mountain biking. Her great physical beauty belied a fierce determination and inner strength that could, at times, lead her into and out of peril. This, combined with her intellectual and emotional intelligence and sharp wit, made Olive a unique and unforgettable person to everyone who met her. She loved street art and loud, fast rock and roll. She loved fashion. She loved spicy food. She loved to drive. She had a special compassion for people at the margins of life and people who suffered. Olive had a full heart. In recent years, Olive struggled with a debilitating and progressive mental illness that she and her family tried so hard to overcome. Olive lived with a great deal of pain from this. In the last months of her life, she mounted a strong effort to get better, eliminating any kind of self-medication, practicing yoga and walking, and reengaging with her formal education. She faced her challenges bravely until the very end. Olive is survived by her mom, Allison Ericson; her dad, Daniel Sedon; and her brothers, Jon Maxwell Wright and Metro Jackson Sedon. Olive will be buried in the Vermont Forest Cemetery in Roxbury. A remembrance of life ceremony will be held to honor Olive later this summer.
Kyla Grunberg Allon April 28, 2024 No obituary currently available.
Donna Maureen Abbott July 4, 1947 - January 27, 2024 Donna Maureen Abbott born July 4th, 1947 in Ashland Oregon died on January 27, 2024 peacefully in her sleep. She leaves her brother and sister-in-law Richard and Marion Abbott of Orange, VT, her son John Richard Baker of Plainfield, VT, her son and daughter-in-law Alan and Charlene Baker of Broad Brook, CT, her daughter and son-in-law Barbara and John Kulinski of Savannah, GA. She also leaves her granddaughter Alison Baker of Warehouse Point, CT and grandson and grand-daughter-in-law Ed and Chelsey Baker of Broad Brook, CT, as well as 3 great granddaughters Lizbeth, Addalyn and Emilia Baker. She also leaves many cousins, a niece and nephew and many friends. Donna worked many jobs of over the years, eventually earning two master's degrees. She taught at Burlington College until it closed. Teaching was immensely fulfilling for her. In retirement Donna spent much of her time knitting and weaving items for her family and friends, as well as cooking wonderful meals. Her passions were love of her family, creativity, love of animals and care of the environment. Donna will be laid to rest in the Vermont Forest Cemetery in Roxbury, VT. In lieu of flowers, donations in her honor can be made to Kitty Corner Café in Barre, VT.
Milton Djuric December 2023 Milt was the life partner of Wendy Severinghaus. He was a poet and book editor who loved the peace and quiet of the Ridge in the off season.
Allan S. Friedland March 25, 1955 - October 29, 2023 Allan S. Friedland Esq. passed away on Sunday, October 29, 2023, lovingly surrounded by his family at home. He was born on March 25, 1955 to Jack and Annette Friedland. Allan was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and brother. He loved to spend time in the mountains skiing, biking, and hiking with his wife, Barbara, and his children, Jesse and Julien. Born in Merion, Pennsylvania, Allan attended the Haverford School and worked in his grandfather’s supermarket chain, Food Fair. He later attended the University of Pennsylvania, where he developed his love for the outdoors. He was a member of the Outing Club, where he met his wife Barbara. His high school job at Food Fair later inspired him to attend the Delaware Law School of Widener University, focusing on employee benefits, where he graduated in 1982. He worked as a respected lawyer for 38 years before retiring in 2020. Allan and Barbara were married on January 28, 1984. They purposefully married in the winter, not concerned with precarious driving conditions, so they could go skiing on their honeymoon! They raised their family in Connecticut, and enjoyed summers and winters in Vermont. Allan had numerous hobbies. He was a model train enthusiast, avid pinball player, and Philadelphia sports fan. He especially loved watching the Eagles. In his community, Allan was the Executive Officer of the Simsbury Grange. In lieu of flowers, the Friedland Family is asking to please consider a memorial contribution to the Vermont Forest Cemetery PO Box 711 Montpelier, VT 05601 or to the Adirondack Mountain Club PO Box 4390 Queensbury, NY 12804. Contributions: In lieu of flowers, the Friedland Family is asking to please consider a memorial contribution to the Vermont Forest Cemetery PO Box 711 Montpelier, VT 05601 or to the Adirondack Mountain Club PO Box 4390 Queensbury, NY 12804.
Randall Ewdin Stratton, Jr. February 17, 1945 - October 26, 2023 Randall Edwin Stratton, Jr. was born in Framingham, Massachusetts on February 17, 1945 to Randall Stratton, Sr. and Charlotte Stratton. His parents were both teachers at Providence Country Day School, teaching history and drama. Randall had two older siblings, Sandra and George. Before arriving at Spannocchia, Randall’s life was full of travel and adventure. He studied English and Drama at Harvard. He was featured in several plays, and worked alongside fellow drama student John Lithgow. Two years into his education, he decided to join the army. He was eventually stationed in Vietnam during the war. A few years after returning from deployment he joined in the anti-war protests, Vietnam Veterans against the War, where he met John Kerry. He also completed his studies at Harvard and graduated with a bachelor's degree in English. Randall’s sense of adventure brought him on an unforgettable trip across Europe, on motorcycle. He and his friends visited many countries, including Italy. Later on, Randall moved to Kansas to study Architecture at the University of Kansas, and he worked building sets for the Drama department. The Architecture course at KU offered a program in Italy for two weeks, and Randall signed up for it. The program took place at Spannocchia, and this is where he met Francesca Cinelli, the daughter of Ferdinando Cinelli, who owned the property at the time. Randall and Francesca fell in love, and eventually decided to start a family in Massachusetts. They married in Cambridge, and had two children, Nathaniel and Chiara. In the early 1990s, Ferdinando needed help managing the Tenuta, and persuaded Randall and Francesca to move there with their young family. At first their idea was to help out for a year or two, but as time went by, they became an integral part of Spannocchia and decided to stay. A couple of years after they moved to Italy they had their third child, Lily. With hard work and a lot of passion, they were able to transform Spannocchia from a fading Castello into what it is today. The Tenuta di Spannocchia is now a working farm and agriturismo that holds strong values of sustainability, organic farming, education, preservation of historic landscape, and building community. Randall and Francesca would still travel back to the US every year, to stay in contact with friends and family, and several years ago bought a house in Vermont. All three of their children were living there at the time and they wanted to be close to the kids and their grandchild. A few years ago Randall was diagnosed with cancer. Despite his illness he continued to travel, as well as participate in the activities at Spannocchia. He always loved being in the midst of it all. On October 26, 2023, Randall passed away in Vermont, surrounded by friends and family. His commitment to sustainability continues after death. Randall chose to have a green burial, in the Vermont Forest Cemetery. This method of burial returns him naturally to the ecosystem, and helps sustain the planet and future generations. The cemetery he chose holds many of the same values that Spannocchia does: a commitment to sustainability and conservation, community and education. Spannocchia visitors, program participants, and interns alike have fond memories of Randall's informative historical tours, his engaging stories over wine on the terrace or dinner in the Villa, and the warmth with which he welcomed everyone to his family’s special property. All of us at Spannocchia are committed to honoring Randall's memory through our work today and every day. Through Spannocchia, Randall created a legacy that has touched thousands of people—and will hopefully continue to impact many future generations.
Ronald Langley October 2, 2023 Ronald B. Langley passed away October 2nd, 2023, with his family at his bedside and Bluegrass music in his ear. Ron was born in Laconia 76 years ago and grew up in Concord, New Hampshire. We met in Barnet in 1984 and were married for 36 years minus a day. Ron was a brilliant and talented man. Upon graduation from Northeastern University in 1970 with a degree in electrical engineering, he bought some tools and took up carpentry. He was especially good at building windows and doors, and the shop he built for himself had - count 'em – fifteen windows and five doors. Before it was common for folks to have their own computers, and after his slide rule was put out to pasture, Ron would entertain himself by sitting on the couch with a calculator and doing logarithms. After purchasing our first computer, he amassed a vast collection of books on programming and he started writing all sorts of programs. He wrote music programs, drawing programs, one that helped me design knitting motifs, one for doing Sudoku puzzles, and other projects known only to him. "Whatcha doing, Ron?" "Oh, just messing around." Ron taught himself to play guitar and piano, and played in a number of different bands, performing Bluegrass and playing for contra dances, usually with his family in tow. He could come up with interesting chord progressions to surprise the listener, looking my way to see my reaction to something new. He was my favorite accompanist, and not just in music. He told me I was his favorite mandolin player, and I admit we made some great music together. His family includes his four sons and their families: Patrick and Stephanie, Connor and Alicia and their children Natalie, Elliott, and Finnegan, Kevin and his fiancé Ally, and Jonathan and his partner Christal. He also leaves behind his three sisters and a brother: Donna, Linda and her husband Phil, Patty and her husband Paul, and Bob, and many nieces and nephews and their families. His family suggests that a sterling way to honor Ron would be to make a donation to the Barnet Public Library, Barnet, VT. He had a lifelong love for reading, especially Science Fiction. His funeral will be private for family members.