Matthew J. de Wolf of Colchester, Vt., passed away on July 3 at the age of 89 of a brief illness, surrounded by his closest friends. He was born October 8, 1929, in Rotterdam, the Netherlands, to Elizabeth (Dietz) de Wolf and Peter de Wolf. He spent his youth living in Nazi-occupied territory and often shared harrowing tales of those years. Matthew emigrated to Canada in his early twenties, where he earned a degree in horticulture from Guelph University. He spent several years in Ottawa, Canada, working for the Experimental Farm and then in the gardens of the governor general of Canada. He was also a private gardener for many homes in and around Ottawa. In 1966, he moved to the United States with his wife, Ginger, the love of his life, and became a U.S. citizen in the 1970s. Matthew found his true calling within the garden center business selling bulbs (Dutch, of course!) and became known as a perennial "guru" at garden centers in Arizona and several stretching from southern Connecticut to northern Vermont. Along the way, he garnered many state and local awards in recognition of his vast expertise, and he became widely known as “the Dutchman.” As a Vermont certified horticulturist, his knowledge, charisma and genuine passion for his work were unsurpassed. With his infectious smile and an infamous twinkle in his blue eyes, Matthew turned many of his faithful customers into expert perennial gardeners. He worked tirelessly until the age of 89 and retired earlier this year from the Gardener’s Supply Company in Williston. Those who knew him best fondly recall his flawless proficiency of botanical Latin and his insatiable penchants for reading, keeping up with current events (and always sharing his opinion), and completing intricate jigsaw puzzles. He is predeceased by his loving wife, Ginger de Wolf; his parents; and all three of his brothers. Matthew leaves behind his stepdaughter Sharon Perkins and her husband, Gary, of Glen, N.H.; and his son Dr. Christopher de Wolf and his wife, Maria, and grandson Oliver of Geneva, Switzerland, and granddaughter Kaya of Vancouver, B.C. He will also be deeply missed by his many friends, fellow employees and clients who exclusively sought his horticultural guidance. Donations to the Friends of Matthew de Wolf Scholarship are encouraged (c/o 476-B Ellsworth Rd., East Fairfield, VT 05448) and will assist deserving candidates who are pursuing a horticultural certification. A…
Matthew J. de Wolf of Colchester, Vt., passed away on July 3 at the age of 89 of a brief illness, surrounded by his closest friends. He was born October 8, 1929, in Rotterdam, the Netherlands, to Elizabeth (Dietz) de Wolf and Peter de Wolf. He spent his youth living in Nazi-occupied territory and often shared harrowing tales of those years. Matthew emigrated to Canada in his early twenties, where he earned a degree in horticulture from Guelph University. He spent several years in Ottawa, Canada, working for the Experimental Farm and then in the gardens of the governor general of Canada. He was also a private gardener for many homes in and around Ottawa. In 1966, he moved to the United States with his wife, Ginger, the love of his life, and became a U.S. citizen in the 1970s. Matthew found his true calling within the garden center business selling bulbs (Dutch, of course!) and became known as a perennial "guru" at garden centers in Arizona and several stretching from southern Connecticut to northern Vermont. Along the way, he garnered many state and local awards in recognition of his vast expertise, and he became widely known as “the Dutchman.” As a Vermont certified horticulturist, his knowledge, charisma and genuine passion for his work were unsurpassed. With his infectious smile and an infamous twinkle in his blue eyes, Matthew turned many of his faithful customers into expert perennial gardeners. He worked tirelessly until the age of 89 and retired earlier this year from the Gardener’s Supply Company in Williston. Those who knew him best fondly recall his flawless proficiency of botanical Latin and his insatiable penchants for reading, keeping up with current events (and always sharing his opinion), and completing intricate jigsaw puzzles. He is predeceased by his loving wife, Ginger de Wolf; his parents; and all three of his brothers. Matthew leaves behind his stepdaughter Sharon Perkins and her husband, Gary, of Glen, N.H.; and his son Dr. Christopher de Wolf and his wife, Maria, and grandson Oliver of Geneva, Switzerland, and granddaughter Kaya of Vancouver, B.C. He will also be deeply missed by his many friends, fellow employees and clients who exclusively sought his horticultural guidance. Donations to the Friends of Matthew de Wolf Scholarship are encouraged (c/o 476-B Ellsworth Rd., East Fairfield, VT 05448) and will assist deserving candidates who are pursuing a horticultural certification. A…
Norma Troup Sassorossi, 94, passed away peacefully on July 21, 2019, at the McClure Miller Respite House in Colchester, Vt. Born on June 24, 1925, in Barre, Vt., she was the daughter of William Pratt and Margaret (Galli) Troup. Barre became her geographical anchor throughout her life. Norma graduated from Spaulding High School (SHS) in 1943, where she formed lifelong friendships and was active in many activities, including serving as a majorette, a talent she later reprised at several class reunions. After high school, Norma attended Simmons College, where she graduated as a registered nurse. Norma and Elmo Sassorossi, a 1942 SHS graduate who had returned to Harvard College following his World War II service in the Army, began dating while both lived in Boston. On April 9, 1949, Norma and Elmo were married, a date — 4/9/49 — that Elmo often reminded his family made it easy to remember anniversaries. Returning to Barre, the couple started a family in 1951 with the birth of Kenn, followed by a second son, Jeff, two years later. Norma never seemed to stand still for more than a few minutes. She enjoyed golfing with Elmo and friends at the Barre Country Club, where she won a Ladies’ Club Championship and recorded two holes in one. Other recreational interests included playing bridge, painting and bowling. Norma’s family particularly appreciated her culinary talents, never more apparent than at Christmas, when platters of holiday confections, pasta frollas, ossi dei Morti cookies and a parade of pies appeared. Kenn and Jeff fondly remember the food packages they gleefully received at college, which included sweet treats and “marijuana toast”— slices of toast seasoned with dill, garlic and other spices. Remaining at their Abbott Avenue home in Barre until 2016, Norma and Elmo then moved to the Gazebo Apartments assisted living in South Burlington. Norma is survived by her loving and dedicated husband of 70 years and her two sons, four grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. The family includes Kenn Sassorossi and his wife Judy (Bickford) Sassorossi, their daughter Kathryn Aisenberg and her husband Jonathan and their children Lucia and Dario; their daughter Martha Sassorossi and her husband Rafael Ferrer and their newborn daughter Vera Adelina; and Jeff Sassorossi and his wife Beverly (Darling) Sassorossi, their son William Sassorossi and his wife Margaret (Newton) Sassorossi and their children Eleanor and Samuel; and their daughter Kristine Sassorossi. She is…
A new bright star shines above; Dr. Kim Thabault left us on June 21, 2019, in her home in Costa Rica after her 19-month courageous battle with brain cancer. Fierce as Kim was, this foe was not to be beaten. But she did not surrender easily; she remained her normal feisty, passionate, argumentative self. Just ask the nurses and doctors who worked with her at the Duke Cancer Center, where she participated in two clinical trials. Just ask the owners of the horses she tended even while she was dealing with the effects of chemo and radiation and then the drugs of the clinical trials. Kimberly Ann Thabault was born in Burlington, Vt., on June 7, 1973. She graduated from Princess Ann High School in Virginia Beach, Va., in 1991 and from the University of Vermont in 1995. She leaves her husband, Eduardo Villa, and his parents, Oswaldo and Ana Maria, of Buenos Aires, Argentina and his sister Marissa and her family of Barcelona, Spain; her mother and stepfather, Janice and Gary Sharp, of Virginia Beach, Va.; her father and stepmother, Paul Thabault and Nancy Money, of Stowe Vt.; her sister and brother-in-law Kate and Travis Apple and their three wonderful sons Morgan, Cailin and Kelly Apple of Morrisville, Vt.; her brother and sister-in-law Brennan Thabault and Jenn McLaughlin of Virginia Beach, Va.; and her step-siblings Jessica and Justin Sharp and their families of Virginia Beach and NYC. Also left behind are many aunts, uncles, cousins and friends from childhood and adulthood, and her large and loving extended family, of which there are too many to list, although they played such an important part in her robust life. After Kim graduated from UVM, she followed her heart to Costa Rica, where she met Eduardo, her future husband, who had followed his heart from Argentina to Costa Rica. Kim’s passion, since she was a young girl riding horses at Contentment Farm in South Hero, Vt., was to be with, care for and ride horses. She led horseback trail rides and waitressed in Tamarindo, Costa Rica, until she upped the ante and attended a nine-month massage course in Santa Fe, N.M., thus allowing her to return to her beloved adopted country with a more sustainable career. She was an excellent deep-tissue massage therapist but still she longed to work with horses. At age 31, she was accepted into vet school in…
Lewis Kings Wetzel, 88, passed away on Friday, July 26, 2019. Lew was born in Detroit, Mich., the only child of Eleanor Nixon Wetzel and Lewis Malcolm Wetzel. Lew was a proud graduate of Antioch College in Ohio, where he received his mechanical engineering degree. Lew fell in love with Vermont and Lake Champlain when he began his lifelong career at the General Electric Company. Lew married Ann Bradbury Wetzel in Burlington in 1953, and they remained together for 66 years. They raised their three children, Stephen, Mark and Jeannie, in South Burlington and moved to Colchester in 1980. Lew was an ardent sailor and an active member and frequent race winner at the Malletts Bay Boat Club on his sailboats The Blue Moon, The West Wind and The Shadow. After Ann purchased some property in Grand Isle, Lew built the family summer camp on the east shore of Grand Isle, where he enjoyed family gatherings, lake activities and vegetable gardening. Lew worked long hours on the initial creation of the Colchester Causeway Bike Path. Lew could build or fix practically anything; he totally restored his 1959 Triumph TR3 and maintained Ann’s 1959 Mercedes Benz sedan. Lew leaves behind his wife, Ann; son Stephen and his wife, Jan Wetzel; son Mark and his wife, Joan Wetzel; daughter Jeannie and her husband, Gary Hampel; four grandchildren, Mathew and Jeffrey Wetzel and Andrea and Carly Hampel; and, of course, his beloved terrier, Ozzie. Services will be private, at the convenience of the family. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the American Heart Association. Arrangements have been entrusted to the care of the Cremation Society of Chittenden County, a division of the Ready Funeral Home, 261 Shelburne Rd., in Burlington. Please place online condolences at cremationsocietycc.com.…
Judith Ann Fiermonte of Santa Rosa, Calif., passed away on June 29 after a recent diagnosis of cancer. Her absence creates a void that has left so many struggling with the shock of this tremendous loss. Judy was born August 5, 1949, in Newport, Vt., to Dr. Frank and Lucille Fiermonte. She lived in Derby, Vt., until graduation from high school. She obtained her bachelor of arts degree from the University of Vermont and her master's degree in clinical psychology from Sonoma State University. Judy was a beloved Santa Rosa Marriage & Family Therapist for the past 40 years, as well as a treasured mother, daughter, sister and friend. She was an inspiration, resource, mentor and admired colleague to members of the Sonoma County therapeutic community. Judy specialized in working with children and families, holding them in the circle of her love, helping them heal through their darkest times. She championed traumatized and special needs children and fiercely advocated for healthy parent-child relationships. Judy loved babies, being a mom, dancing, gardening, reading, and spending time with friends and her dog Lily and her cat Mike. She leaves behind her daughter, Tanya Fiermonte, of whom she was so proud. In addition, Judy is survived by her father, Dr. Frank Fiermonte, of South Burlington, Vt.; her sister Paula Fiermonte and brother-in law William Hartman of San Rafael, Calif.; and her brother Philip and his wife, Irene Jednak, of Burlington, Vt., and Montréal, Canada. Judy’s celebration of life will be held in September. Please check legacy.com to leave tributes for Judy and for further information regarding the celebration of life. Donations may be made in her name to the LGBT National Help Center, 2261 Market St., Suite 296, San Francisco, CA 94114 (glbthotline.org).…
Julian Joseph Jaffe, a longtime resident of Burlington, passed away at the McClure Miller Respite House on July 31, 2019. He was born February 17, 1926, in Bronx, N.Y., to Paul and Frieda (Schall) Jaffe. The family moved to a farm in East Hampton, Conn., in 1935, at the height of the Great Depression. Times were very tough, and Julian developed a strength and resilience that would carry him through 93 years of life. Julian served in the Navy during World War II and graduated at the top of his class at the University of Connecticut in 1949. The GI Bill enabled him to earn his master’s and PhD at Harvard. His doctoral thesis described a landmark discovery in his scientific research that led to progress in the fight against many diseases, including cancer. Julian was awarded a Fulbright Scholarship in 1953. He taught biology at Brown and Yale, and in 1961 became a professor of pharmacology at the University of Vermont, where he taught and did research in tropical medicine until his retirement in 1989. As Julian was a well-respected expert in his field, his lab was chosen by the World Health Organization as a training site for post-doctoral pharmacology students from developing countries in Africa and Asia, where parasitological diseases affected millions of people. He was honored by UVM as a University Scholar in 1985. After retirement, Julian was busier than ever, volunteering for the Red Cross and recording textbooks for visually impaired students. He was a talented artist, and his favorite medium for years was needlepoint and rug hooking. Rather than use a kit, he would design everything himself — wall art, pillows, and rugs of all shapes and sizes. Julian was proud of his Jewish heritage and had vast knowledge of Jewish history and the Yiddish language. He loved the natural world, gardening and birdwatching. He was an avid reader and loved doing crossword puzzles. He will be remembered for his keen intellect, his sense of humor and prowess in telling jokes and stories, and his love of pretzels and spicy food. He is survived by Joy (his wife of 66 years), four children and three grandchildren, whom he adored. There will be no visiting hours. The family is holding a private service. Donations in his memory could be sent to one of his favorite organizations, Doctors Without Borders, msf.org.…
Henry H. Huston Sr., 88, of Burlington, Vt., died peacefully on July 21, 2019. Barbara, his wife of 58 years, passed away in 2010, and his thoughts were with her every day. He is survived by his daughter Ann and her son Joseph; by his son Henry Jr. and his son Lincoln; and by many extended family and dear friends. Henry was born in Chicago in 1931, the youngest of five, and he married Barbara in 1952. He served in the Korean War and later moved to New York, where he attended Cooper Union. Vermont became his home in 1968, and a year later he established his graphic and industrial design business, Huston Associates. He was an energetic collaborator on projects such as the Church Street Marketplace and the Burlington waterfront. His designs informed many of the unique businesses that made up Burlington and Vermont’s dynamic transformation. People gravitated to his boundless enthusiasm, playfulness and constant creativity. They, in turn, were touched by his sincere, curious and caring nature. Lake Champlain provided a theme of great joy throughout his life — from his many boats and a nautical antique store in Essex, N.Y., to volunteering at ECHO Leahy Center for Lake Champlain to finding warm companionship in his late years at the St. John’s Club. At his request, no immediate service will be scheduled. Donations in his honor can be made to ECHO Leahy Center for Lake Champlain: echovermont.org/join-support/make-a-gift.…
Renee Jeanne Grenier Allen passed away at her home in South Burlington on August 1, 2019, after a lengthy illness. Renee was born in Toms River, N.J., on May 9, 1964. The youngest of five children, she was adored by her older siblings. Her loving parents, Norman and Theresa Grenier, predeceased her. The family moved to East Greenwich, R.I., where Renee attended local schools. She attended Castleton State College and graduated with a degree in communications from the University of Rhode Island. Renee was a longtime employee of the EDGE Sports & Fitness, where she was the manager. She taught swimming and water aerobics and especially enjoyed working with the senior members. Over the years, her energetic personality motivated many young children to become proficient swimmers. In recent years, Renee’s love of children led her to volunteer at the Ronald McDonald House in Burlington. Renee is survived by her beloved children, Connor Howard Allen and Casey Claire Allen, and by her former husband, Howard A. “Chip” Allen, all of Burlington. Renee is also survived by her brothers, Michael Grenier and his wife, Carol, of Port St. Lucie, Fla., and Stephen Grenier and his wife, Sharon, of North Kingstown, R.I.; her sisters, Norma Jean Juel and her husband, Craig, of Huntersville, N.C., and Claudia Cordisco and her husband, Michael, of Sparrowbush, N.Y.; and several nieces and nephews. Services will be held on Thursday, August 22, 2019, at 11 a.m. at St. John Vianney Church, 160 Hinesburg Road, South Burlington, VT, with a reception immediately following. Burial will be private. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Renee’s name to Block Island Conservancy or the charity of your choice. The family is appreciative of all the care and concern from friends, neighbors and community members who have supported Renee these past few years.…
Robert Bernard Bessette Sr. was a loving husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, uncle and friend. He loved his family, friends, his home and Vermont. He died at home, surrounded by his family, on August 13, 2019. The son of Mildred (Clarke) and Theodore Bessette, he was born in Burlington on October 31, 1931, always making Halloween extra special for his family. Bob spent his early years in the South End of Burlington, often recounting fond memories of his many adventures growing up there. He graduated from Burlington High School, class of 1950. He was a Korean War-era Army veteran, enlisting in 1952 and serving in Okinawa, Japan. On August 16, 1952, he married the love of his life, Helen (Payea) Bessette. Whether traveling, dancing, seeing the races at Saratoga, visiting casinos or just picnicking on the waterfront, they truly enjoyed being together, especially when surrounded by family and friends. His love of nature, and particularly the natural beauty of Vermont, began at a young age, when he would hunt and fish with his father, brother and friends. He had a lifelong passion for hunting and fishing and the outdoors, and he passed this along to his children and many of his friends. He was hunting during the 2018 deer season (bow, rifle and muzzleloader), spending many hours in the woods the week before he became ill. Playing golf and following the Red Sox were also lifelong interests. Bob worked at General Electric in Burlington for many years before moving to a career in corrections with the State of Vermont. “Sparky” retired from CCCC in 1990 after 20 years of service. In addition to his loving wife, Helen, Bob is survived by his daughters, Julie Giguere and her husband, Alan, and Suellen Bessette, all of Burlington; and his sons, Timothy of Milton, Jay and Jon of Burlington, and Bradley and his wife, Shelley, of Barre. He is also survived by his seven grandchildren, Shelby Jors and her husband, Charlie, of Seattle, Wash.; and Darren Giguere, Justin Boucher, Abaigeal Lundy, Trevor and Kyle Bessette, and Brandon Ha Bessette; as well as his two great-grandchildren, Brolin and Josephine Jors. Dad, Grandpa and Great-Grandpa, Bob shared a special and unique relationship with each of us. Bob was predeceased by his parents; his three siblings, Ted, Katherine and Norma; his infant daughter Kathy Jean; and his beloved son Robert (Bobby) Jr. Our family would like…
A. Richard “Rick” Purchase, 75, of Calais, Vt., passed away on Wednesday, August 14, 2019, surrounded by his family at the University of Vermont Medical Center following a sudden and acute illness. Born in Washington, D.C., on February 29, 1944, to Albert Richard and Marian (Duke) Purchase, he was the eldest of two sons and grew up in Montpelier, Vt. He was a loving son, brother, husband, father, uncle, grandfather and loyal friend to many. A steadfast Vermonter, Rick graduated from Montpelier High School in 1962 and attended the University of Vermont, where he graduated with a bachelor of science degree in political science in 1966. Soon after graduation, he married, Nancy, his wife of nearly 53 years, and they moved to Maple Corner in Calais, Vt., to raise their family. They had five children: Kristen Purchase Werner and her husband, Michael, of Richmond, Vt.; Kimberly Purchase Luebbers and her husband, Robert, of Williston, Vt.; Bill Purchase of Braintree, Mass.; Lt. Col. Kathryn Purchase Sanborn and her husband, Lt. Col. Marc Sanborn, assigned to Fort Shafter, H.I.; and Neal Purchase and his wife, Anne, of Goffstown, N.H. He was also the proud grandfather of eight grandchildren: Kyle Werner, married to Shannin; Jack, Elle and Annabelle Werner; Samuel and Henry Purchase; and Theodore and Elliot Purchase. He is also survived by his brother David Purchase of Santa Fe, N.M., and lifelong family friends George and Jill Edson and family of Cornish, N.H. Many will remember Rick as an exceptional home builder, general contractor and owner of Capital Builders and, later, the owner of Johnson Artesian Well Drilling. He subsequently worked with Spafford & Sons Water Wells as a consultant. An active volunteer and community leader, he served as a lister for the Town of Calais for many years and also served as a selectman. He was a proud, longtime member of the Kiwanis Club of Montpelier, served on the board of directors for Westview Meadows and the Gary Residence, and was an active member of the Vermont Ground Water Association. From his years of hard, dedicated work for his employees and customers, as well as his active community involvement, Rick leaves behind a large circle of lifelong friends and colleagues. Rick will be remembered by many for his honesty, kindness and love of family, and he will be greatly missed by all who knew him. A dedicated family man and…
The life celebration for Gladys Agell will be held on Sunday, September 8, 2019, at 11 a.m. at the Vermont College of Fine Arts in the College Hall Chapel, in Montpelier, Vt. The Hooker and Whitcomb Funeral Home, 7 Academy Street in Barre, assisted the Agell family with the arrangements.…
On August 10, 2019, Karin Ann Caldwell passed after living with lung cancer for a year and a half. She had beautiful strong strides, positive therapies and months that came to a quiet standstill. Every day she braved this extremely difficult territory with faith and courage. Karin was born in Indiana, Pa., on November 30, 1952, to Helen Pike and Drexell Caldwell. She attended high school in Indiana and studied health and physical education at Indiana University of Pennsylvania. In the early ’70s, she moved to Vermont and became part of the Touchstone community in Starksboro. Days were spent trout fishing, mothering tomcats and growing food. The 20-plus cooperative members built homes, co-raised kids and shared wisdom over decades. Karin had built her first house there with her partner by age 26. In the ’80s, her free spirit led her to Negril, Jamaica, where she met her former husband, Joseph Allen. The two relocated to Starksboro and had two daughters, Mattie and Lilli Allen. Karin became a hardworking single mother, always able to create something from nothing with poise and grace. Karin loved supporting her community, refurbishing antiques and gardening. In her last 20 years, she ran her own business, Roots North Landscaping, designing beautiful gardens throughout Vermont and cultivating lasting friendships. While working, she talked politics and recipes and sang long-past tunes over big blooms with her close friend, Kathleen (Cooter) Bushey. Karin often put her life on hold to preserve and empower the freedoms of others. She rallied behind people’s rights: women’s, LGBQT and civil rights; immigration issues; and Planned Parenthood. She served on the board for the John Graham Shelter in Vergennes, volunteered at food shelves and helped with community events at Saint Peters Catholic Church. Karin had a generosity of spirit and love for family. She was mischievous and fun to be with, while still hardworking, independent and proud. Karin showed us how to love endlessly, knowing that cancer affects only our physical lives, while the love she gave extends way beyond its bounds. She is survived by her daughters, Lillian Rose and Mattie Star Allen; her brothers, Mark and Greg Caldwell, and their families; and many close friends. The family invites everyone to join on September 6 at 11 a.m. for a mass celebrating her life at Saint Peters Catholic Church, 85 S. Maple St., Vergennes, VT 05491. A reception will follow. Karin donated…
Our Kari was born on February 11, 1967, in Bryn Mawr, Pa., to Bonnie and Arthur Stolpestad (of Brunswick, Maine, and Lynn, Mass., respectively). Standing together in love and courage were her beloved husband, Bruce, and son, Gunnar “My Boy” Bierbaum (Burlington, Vt); mother, Bonnie Stolpestad (the late Arthur Stolpestad), now of Crossroad’s Village, Portage, Mich.; brother Lars Stolpestad (Kari) and their children, Annika and Bjorn (Kalamazoo, Mich.); sister Rev. Kerrie Harthan (Gloria Korsman) of Cambridge, Mass.; aunt Candy Dorscheid and her Donofrio family (Madison, Conn.); godmother Gunta Hirsch (the late Bruno Hirsch) of Canton, Mass.; and cousins Ginny Drew and Earl and Bonnie MacKenzie of Islesboro, Maine. Hailing from Brunswick, Maine, Kari graduated from Brunswick High School in 1985. She met Bruce at the University of Maine, Orono, graduating in 1989. They set up home in Burlington, Vt. Kari loved working in the University of Vermont’s Research Protection Office and coming home to tend to son Gunnar and his friends, as well as her vibrant garden. She was an athletic outdoorswoman and certified as a diving instructor and master gardener, perfectly reflecting her spiritual connection to nature. She was happiest when camping on Warren Island, swimming and kayaking off Leadbetter Island (both in Penobscot Bay), snowshoeing and skiing in Stowe, hiking the Green Mountains, and sailing on Lake Champlain with family, friends and Ebb, her chocolate lab, who still looks for her. Kari was an engaging woman whose sidesplitting antics grew out of compassion, mischief and wry humor. Whether flamboyantly dancing to ABBA on a schooner bowsprit or pouring red wine on your white kitchen floor and tossing all your clothes around your house as her way of saying "Thanks for your hospitality," she endeared herself to you. You knew that she cared. Blessed with empathy and appreciation for the shenanigans of youth, she relished opening her home to her cherished neighborhood family, especially the young people now in college. She wanted you to feel at home, understood, content. Kari was kind. If desired, a tribute to Kari can be made to the Vermont Suicide Prevention Center. She struggled with depression and anxiety, intensely, these last two years. Our family is committed to bringing heartfelt awareness, research and effective public health policy to bear on this widespread, treatable disease. We thank the St. Lawrence University football team, staff and faculty for their superb, loving support of Gunnar. We…
Eugene (Gene) H. Shaver, our beloved husband, father and grandfather, left for his heavenly home on Thursday, August 1, 2019. An intelligent, humble, dog-loving gentleman and friend to all has left us. He leaves his one and only love of 59 years, Mary (Jackson) Shaver; his son, Eric, and his wife, Gail Gaetani; his daughter, Sonja Fuller, and her husband, Andy; his sisters, Gale Shaver and Elaine Brooks; four grandchildren: Sophia and Sedona Shaver and Amy and Adam Fuller; and many other relatives and close friends. He was predeceased by his brother Allen. He was born on August 2, 1936, in Andes, N.Y., to Allen J. Shaver and Lillian Misner. He started a lifelong passion for sports, particularly baseball, at an early age that carried throughout his lifetime. After high school, he enlisted in the U.S. Army with his best friend, Fred Wilson, and was assigned to the signal corp. He became an instructor in cathode ray tube theory at Fort Monmouth, N.J. After his discharge, he returned home and became reacquainted with a now-grown-up girl he used to tease as a child, Mary Jackson. Mary and Gene were married in July 1960. He started the family in San Jose, Calif., with Sonja and Eric and moved the family of four to Burlington, Vt., in 1967. Burlington has been home since and the starting place for so much of what he was proud to provide for his family. His time on the Burlington City Council was a source of pride for him, knowing he could give back and help the community he loved. He loved to spend time on the lake and attend or coach absolutely any sport he could, and he taught himself to ski. He became a hockey player at 40. You could find him skiing, skating, playing basketball, softball, baseball, tennis, water-skiing … you name it. Later in life, he took joy in his grandchildren and taking every opportunity to teach, coach, play and tease another generation of Shavers. He enjoyed getting to know his step-grandchildren and considered them family, as well. He had a reputation for being a constant joker and loved to tease you. His hope was always that you would tease right back. Gene loved talking to friends and strangers alike and could find fun in everyone he met and everywhere he went. He found these friends in IBM, at the church, at…
Perry Nunn, a beloved husband, brother, cousin, uncle, teacher, friend and musician, died surrounded by love at home on August 29, 2019, of pulmonary fibrosis. The disease became very aggressive in Perry's final months, progressing faster and faster up to his death. No one expected him to decline so quickly. Perry had made his home in Burlington for nearly 30 years. He was well known in many circles and had established a large, close community of friends. For six years in the late 1990s into the early 2000s, he had a regular happy-hour gig every Friday at Ruben James, where his soaring voice and killer rhythm on guitar and harmonica made him a favorite with students from the University of Vermont. He was hired to play many a college party, and a returning alum once told Perry: "You were the soundtrack to my college career!" About 10 years later, Perry again had a regular gig for nearly two years, playing Fridays or Saturdays at Red Square. He produced an eponymous album in 1990 and a second one, Between Two Points, in 2012. Perry was born in Utica, N.Y., on March 6, 1962, but grew up in Plattsburgh. He came from a large family in a neighborhood on Cumberland Head with many more kids on all sides. His earliest musical collaborations were with his next-door cousin and partner in crime, Matt Mousseau. As elementary-aged children, the two of them used the garage as their sound studio, where they wrote songs and performed together on improvised instruments from the garage and kitchen, dreaming of forming a band one day. As teenagers, they did exactly that, and well into their twenties their bands continued to play around New York and Vermont. Perry earned his bachelor's degree in music from SUNY Plattsburgh. His cousin and best friend, Michael Mousseau, inspired him to study a semester abroad in London, which only piqued his interest in traveling even further. Fascinated with everything about life and the world we live in, Perry later spent two years traveling with his first wife around the world together with Michael Mousseau and his wife. Perry's large spirit and enthusiastic interest in the people and places he encountered — paired with his impressive chops when busking throughout Europe and in the Middle East, South Asia, and East Asia — won him friends and fans wherever he went. After earning his…
It is with heavy hearts that we share the passing of our beloved Casey. After a short but hard-fought illness, Casey surrendered peacefully Tuesday evening, September 10. He was surrounded by his immediate, extended and chosen families, friends and loved ones. Casey grew up in Lake Placid, N.Y. As a child, he loved to do crafts and cook. He had a flair for fashion and all things beautiful. This translated well to his many years in the jewelry business bringing light and joy to countless people, clients, customers, coworkers, friends and family. His fearlessness and fabulous heart were unmatched. He was always the caretaker and nurturer, master chef, lover of animals, and all things sparkling and radiant. Casey will be forever missed by the many lives he touched. Casey was predeceased by his father, Charles “Charlie” Draper. He is survived by his mother, Margaret “Peg” Draper, and three brothers: Brian and his partner, Kim; Cory and his wife, Tammy; and Charles (“Chip”) and his wife, Leah. He is also survived by several nieces and nephews, whom he cherished deeply. Per Casey’s request, there will be no services but a private celebration of life at a later date. Condolences and memories may be shared with M.B. Clark funeral home of Lake Placid. In lieu of flowers, donations to the American Cancer Society are welcome.…
On September 19, 2019, Paul Alan Bruhn of South Burlington died of having too much fun. It was his heart that finally couldn’t keep up with him. He was born March 27, 1947, in Burlington, the son of Marion and Elmer Bruhn. His father died when Paul was just 5 months old, and his mother was left to run the family business, Bruhn Office Equipment on Church Street in downtown Burlington, as well as raise three young children. The first two were probably easier than the last one. Paul is survived by his very special friend Colleen O’Neill of Cornish, N.H.; his former partner Christine Graham of Burlington and North Bennington and her two sons, Finnegan Calabro and his wife, Clare Beams, and their daughters Tess and Joanna of Pittsburgh, Pa., and Max Calabro of Portland, Ore.; his sisters Janet Lum of Orcas, Wash., and Beverly Major and her husband, Randolph, of Westminster West, Vt.; his former wife Kathleen Stankevich of Springfield; numerous nieces and nephews; his "brother" Pat Robins and Lisa Schamberg, who didn't know she was getting a package deal; his colleagues and board members at the Preservation Trust of Vermont; and lots of special friends. The high point of his academic career was at the Tom Thumb Nursery School. He later graduated (barely) from Burlington High School in 1965, where playing basketball was his biggest interest, and he briefly attended the University of Vermont. In spite of an uninspiring academic record, he was lucky enough to have three very special careers. In 1966, Proctor and Ruth Page took him under their wings and provided him with an education in journalism and the newspaper business. Later they supported his effort to edit and publish a monthly magazine for Chittenden County. Chittenden Magazine operated for four years, ending publication in 1973. Paul often said those years working for Proc and Ruth were his "college" education. After a brief stint in the Chittenden County State’s Attorney's Office, he ran Patrick Leahy's first campaign for the U.S. Senate in 1974. He then served as Sen. Leahy's chief of staff in Washington, D.C., until returning to Vermont in 1978. (That was his second college education.) He operated a consulting business for several years and became the first executive director of the Preservation Trust of Vermont in 1980, a position he held until his death. He had great passion for his work…
Megan Angelina Webbley, 31, passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, September 29. Specifically, she died of an overdose, finally losing her battle with addiction. She was in Manchester, N.H., seeking treatment for her addiction. We have no clear picture of what went wrong. Megan leaves behind her mother, Dorothy Provenzano, of Boca Raton, Fla.; her father, Edwin Webbley, of Middlebury, Vt.; and her brother, Michael Henderson, of Los Angeles, Calif.; as well as many loving cousins, aunts and uncles. She also left behind four beautiful children who were collectively the light of her dark life. Though shadowed by opiate addiction, Megan enjoyed a big smile and an infectious laugh. She loved all kinds of music, dancing and doing her makeup. Empathetic in the extreme, she was the underdog’s biggest advocate. And against all circumstances, when she could be, she was a loving, gentle and doting mother. Just last year, she spent a few hours in the pool with all four kids (the youngest has since been adopted by a loving family), and it was a rollicking, madcap outing featuring a waterslide and peals of laughter. It was at that point when she was the happiest we had seen her in years. Megan grew up in St. Albans and Georgia, Vt., participating in dance and swimming. She proved to be an adventuresome reader and a fearless jumper off cliffs. But on July 1, 2005, she was once again at a cliff on Eagle Bay in Burlington. I was sitting at my desk on the first day of a new job, and a Vermont State Policeman called to tell me to drive to the emergency room at the University of Vermont Medical Center. I was told that she had been pushed off the cliffs and hit the rocks below … with her face. Having been rescued by a man in a kayak and EMTs, she was being stitched up, and her jaw was wired shut. They suspected a TBI, but when they prescribed her liberal doses of opiates, she lost control of her life. She would be in and out of rehab — and jail — for the next 14 years. To editorialize, I am hoping that the Department for Children and Families rethinks its mission to be the punisher of addicted mothers, the separator of families and the arbiter of children’s futures, and instead embrace a mission of enhanced rehabilitation. We,…
Ann (“Anny”) Bailey Cain — beloved wife, mother, sister, cousin and friend — passed away October 4, 2019, at the Philip Hulitar Hospice Center in Providence, R.I. Anny was born to Everett Clark Bailey and Doris Doerfler Bailey on May 16, 1955, in Burlington, Vt. The third of four children, she was raised in the Burlington area, attended local schools and graduated from South Burlington High School in 1972. After high school, she attended the Berkley School of Music in Boston and pursued a singing career in New York City before returning to Vermont. Anny graduated from the University of Vermont School of Nursing as a registered nurse. Anny worked passionately in different nursing specialties for more than 40 years, including surgical/operating room, ob-gyn and oncology in Vermont, Florida and Rhode Island. She is survived by her husband, David E. Cain Jr., of Jamestown, R.I.; her son, Tappan Little, of Colchester, Vt.; and her stepchildren David E. Cain III (Nancy Turner) of Waitsfield, Vt., and Eliza Cain (Randy George) of Moretown, Vt. Anny leaves two brothers, Thomas Bailey (Linda) of South Burlington, Vt., and E. Clark Bailey of Salt Lake City, Utah; and nephews Spencer (Jacki) and Skyler (Crystal) and niece Rachel (David), all of Vermont. Anny also leaves very special cousins Daniel and Mary Jo Davis of West Burke, Vt., and Carol Kelly of Portland, Maine. Anny came from a large family, including many cousins in Vermont, Maine and New York. Anny and David renewed an earlier relationship, marrying on February 18, 1995. For both, it was the love of their lives. They enjoyed many happy years together at their home in Fayston, Vt., before moving “south” to the village of Jamestown on the lovely island of Conanicut in Rhode Island. Anny had a happy and fulfilling life, living every minute with unbridled enthusiasm — she was a breath of fresh air to all whom she met! She enjoyed sailing, skiing, swimming, singing and dancing (and the Boston Red Sox). She was very social, making friends easily by bringing warmth and humor to whomever she met and whatever she did. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, October 12, 2019, at 11 a.m. at St. Matthew’s Episcopal Church, 87 Narragansett Ave., Jamestown, RI. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Jamestown Fire Department-Emergency Medical Services Division at 50 Narragansett Ave., Jamestown, RI 02835. For full…
Beloved mother, grandmother and sister Patricia Towne Ward died on September 13, 2019, after a long, difficult struggle with gastrointestinal issues. Patricia was born in Burlington, Vt., on January 14, 1951. She grew up and attended schools in Milton. She lived and worked in Barre, Vt., California and most recently in Saginaw, Mich. She followed in the footsteps of her mother and grandmother as one of the very best pie makers in all of creation. She loved to find pie plates at garage sales that she could buy and give away with a pie to her friends. Patricia is survived by her daughter Lisa; grandchildren Jayden, Ava and Jayda; brother Bruce; sister Pamela; and ex-husband, Harold. She was predeceased by her parents, Eugene and Arlene Towne; and daughter Megan. Pat deserved better than she got from life, especially over the last three years, but she never became bitter or resentful. Please give a hug to someone whom you love in her memory.…