Obituaries, Seven Days

UVM graduate pursued passions in social work and DIY homeownership Barbara A. Beals of Burlington passed away on November 7, 2019, at the age of 91. She was born to Albert and Vina (Rugg) Beals in Fargo, N.D., on October 31, 1928. “Babs,” as her loving family called her, obtained her undergraduate degree from the University of Vermont and master's degree in social work from Boston University. Babs worked for the State of Vermont for many years. Her greatest joys were her cats and being a DIY homeowner. Barbara is survived by her sister, Nancy Beals Wolfe of North Carolina; and cousins Gail Taylor of California and Lynn Stacey of Texas. A memorial service will be planned for late June. The family would like to thank her neighbor and friend, David Bissonette, for all he did for Babs over the past couple of years. For more information, contact KJM Guardianship at info@kjmguardianship.net.…

Founder of Starksboro’s Traditional Building Trades loved historic preservation, nature Charles “Charley” Armstrong Parker (1954-2019) of Starksboro, VT, died peacefully at home on December 11, 2019. He will be remembered for his intimate connection to the natural world and his attention to detail. Charley walked through life with an awareness of his surroundings and appreciation for small details. He spent time in Starksboro having High Hills adventures in the woods with his family, working in the garden and celebrating the ever-changing offerings from the forest. Charley could also be often found contently reading in his armchair by the woodstove. He took great pride in his self-taught historic preservation skills and ran his own successful business, Traditional Building Trades, for almost 30 years. True to the tradition of a craftsman, he shared his talents and passion with patience and grace. Charley was a loving, supportive son, brother, husband, father, friend; always a steadying hand in any storm. His lasting memory will shine bright for those he leaves behind. Charley is survived by his wife, Lynn Stewart-Parker; four children, Lucy, Elon (Patrice, grandson Walter), Ephraim (Sierra, granddaughter Ida), and Isaac (partner Cedar Slagle). He is also survived by his siblings; brother Jerimiah (Marcia) Parker, sister Sally (Tom Flacke) Demeter, and sister Mary (Rick) Jackson. A private family gathering will be held. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to The Preservation Trust of Vermont, 104 Church St, Burlington, VT 05401.…

Richard Lumbra passed away on October 19, 2019, at his home in Hyde Park, Vt., after living with Parkinson’s disease. Richard was born at home in Richford, Vt., on November 11, 1935, to Roger and Hildred (Whitehead) Lumbra. In 1953, he graduated from Richford High School, where he was an excellent basketball and baseball player. He served three years in the U.S. Army, from 1953 to 1957; he then entered Johnson State College and graduated with a bachelor’s degree in education in 1961. He was hired to teach in Jericho, Vt., where he served from 1961 to 1995, including 25 years as the Jericho Elementary School principal. Richard was an active member of the Jericho community as a referee, umpire, commissioner of Pleasant View Cemetery, lister and, for a stint, town clerk. Dick worked hard through the years, helping out with farm chores in his youth through to his many years as the superintendent of the 4-H Youth Cattle Barn at the Champlain Valley Fair. He was a mentor and friend to so many young people throughout his life. Richard is survived by his wife of 59 years, Jean (Carpenter); his daughter Michele Boomhower, her husband, Greg, and their partner Ginger (Hitchcock) McDowell; his son Jeffrey; and, the apple of his eye, his granddaughter Aleda Boomhower. Richard also leaves his sisters, Virginia Dulude of Enosburg Falls, Vt., and Penny Terkanian of Biloxi, Miss. He was predeceased by his brothers, Roger and Ronald Lumbra. Richard was fondly loved by his sisters and brothers-in-law Shirley and John Therrien, and Bonnie and Dan Nash — as well as numerous nieces and nephews and their children. A private graveside service will be held at the Pleasant View Cemetery in Jericho. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Lamoille Home Health and Hospice, 54 Farr Ave., Morrisville, VT 05661. The family also invites you to share your memories and condolences by visiting awrfh.com.…

Franklin County father of two was a decorated veteran William Downs McDowell, 32, was born February 22, 1987 in Burlington, Vt., and passed away December 16, 2019. Will grew up in Georgia, Vt., where he enjoyed a childhood surrounded by a large extended family and the joy of sports with a gang of close friends. Will was a natural born leader; upon learning that the Georgia Middle School did not have a baseball team he enlisted his dad Rick to coach a team, recruited players, and together the community built a field. Will attended high school at B.F.A. St. Albans and then joined the Vermont National Guard, which led him to a thirteen-year career in the Army. Will married Kristin Lim of Honolulu, Hawaii, in 2009. A life in the service took Will and Kristin to many places, including Seattle, where the couple first met; Colorado, where they enjoyed snowboarding; and Alaska, where they enjoyed salmon fishing, outdoor adventures, and where they welcomed their greatest joy, their children Luke (3) and Maddie (19 months). Will loved his family, and he enjoyed his dogs, Duke and Marley, and connecting with his siblings, Meghan, Scott, Jack, and Kelly. Will is a decorated veteran of the Global War on Terror, serving four tours of duty in Iraq and Afghanistan totaling 39 months (1,186 days) in some of the most austere operational environments. During this time, Will established himself as a skillful soldier and talented leader who others looked up to. Over the course of his distinguished career, Will received 31 awards and decorations for exceptional performance and meritorious service. These honors include: four Army Commendation Medals; two Army Achievement Medals; two Meritorious Unit Commendations; a National Defense Service Ribbon; two Afghanistan Campaign Medals; two Iraq Campaign Medals; a Global War on Terrorism Service Medal; and a Combat Infantry Badge and Expert Infantry Badge. Will is also a graduate of the U.S. Army Ranger and Airborne School, earning both the coveted Ranger Tab and Airborne Badge. In 2016, Will was selected to represent U.S. Army Alaska in the annual “Best Ranger Competition.” During his career, Will served in every Mortarman position from Ammo Bearer, Gunner, and Team Leader to Mortar Platoon Sergeant (forward deployed Afghanistan). He was a consummate professional who possessed a tireless work ethic and sincere care for his soldiers. Will inspired soldiers of all ranks to pursue and achieve greatness. He has positively influenced countless lives throughout his service,…

Longtime Stowe Mountain “Host” also volunteered at Burlington’s ECHO and Flynn Centers Bud Kassel, a kind and gentle man who lived a full life with an open heart, died on December 25, 2019, after a brief decline. He was 91. Joseph Lewis Kassel was born on July 4, 1928, and his mother promptly nicknamed him Buddy, a name that stuck for his entire life. Raised in Middletown, New York, he returned there in the late 1950s to join his father, Murray, in the family retail clothing business and raise, with his beloved wife, Ruth Bettman, their sons David, John and Peter. He and Ruth became respected community leaders over four decades, involved in civic life and public and charitable institutions that are stronger, better and make a bigger difference in people’s lives as a result of their efforts. But the call of the north country was strong for Bud. He spent time in childhood camping, canoeing, skiing and ice-fishing in the Adirondacks where his father was raised (Port Henry). Vermont became Bud’s home-away-from-home by the 1970’s, visiting his sons at college in New England and feeding his other lifelong passion, skiing. In retirement, he and Ruth moved to Burlington in 2002 to be near Peter and John and their families, and to spend more time at their cabin in Nebraska Valley, known as LeBarge, where much fun and relaxation were had and many memories were made. Bud and Ruth dove into community life in Burlington from their home at 40 College Street, a building they often described as a college dorm for retired folks. Bud spent over 20 years as a Host at Stowe Mountain Resort, happily sharing his deep knowledge of and love for Mount Mansfield in winter with newcomers and veterans alike. When grandchildren accompanied him on days like that he was at the peak of happiness. He also volunteered at ECHO and the Flynn Theatre, was a regular at the YMCA and all over downtown, and was beloved by all who came to know him, which could happen in the course of a 5-minute conversation and the wink of an eye. He spent the last few years at Wake Robin in Shelburne with Ruth, and was cared for lovingly by many wonderful people. He thought deeply about how a long life, well-lived, should best conclude. His life ended as he wished, peacefully, in the ripe fullness of time, and with a minimum of medical intervention. Bud is survived…

Middlebury native loved working at Autumn Harp and creating stained-glass art Cheryl Rose Kirby, 43, of Salisbury, passed away peacefully on December 27 at her home after a long battle with cancer. She was born on October 24, 1976, in Middlebury, Vt., to Linda and Randall Kirby. She graduated from Middlebury Union High School in 1994. She is survived by her daughter, Paige Williamson; her father, Randall Kirby; her sister Shauni Kirby and her husband, Avery Hamilton; her sister Stacee Duncan and her husband, Ross Duncan; and her uncle, Kris Newton. She is predeceased by her mother, Linda Kirby. Cheryl lived in Montague, N.J., from 1997 to 2001, where she worked at High Point Golf Club. It was during her time in New Jersey that she discovered her talent and love for stained-glass artwork, which would later become an important part of her life. She was employed at Autumn Harp from 2001 to 2013. Her most notable role was as a production supervisor, through which she displayed a wonderful knack for communicating and connecting with people. She loved her time at Autumn Harp and often spoke about her willingness to work there for free. Her retirement came only when her health no longer permitted her to work. She spent her final years indulging in her stained-glass artwork, which she often sold or gifted to loved ones. Her other hobbies included gardening, tending to her animals, and spending time with family and friends. She wished to express her gratitude to her father and the Addison County Home Health and Hospice for their care and support. She will be remembered for the love she gave, the smiles she brought and her personality that truly broke the mold. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that contributions be made to the Addison County Home Health and Hospice. A celebration of her life is being planned for later this summer.…

A "friend to everyone" is remembered for her loving support In loving memory of Catherine Jean Bessette-Kirby, born in Burlington, Vt. Catherine was 44 years old and was living in Colchester, Vt., at the time of her passing. We are saddened by this tremendous loss on Saturday, January 11, 2020, in Hogansburg, N.Y., at her favorite casino. Catherine was a loving, supportive wife of Gerald (Jay) Kirby Jr. She was the perfect mother of two daughters, Maranda (26) and Myra (21), their partners Cody and Matt, and her dog-son Oliver, of Burlington. She was the stepmother of three children, Malichi, Jonah and Rainia. She was the daughter of Sally Bessette and Carl Bessette. She was the oldest sister of five, Jamie, Krista, Molly, Freya and Leah. She was a funny, energetic and loving aunt of 10, Jack, Alana, William, Matthieu, Kimberly, Eric, Lyla, Jaydin, Kelsey and Ophelia. Catherine was a beautiful and bright soul who lit up every room she walked into. She was a constant example of a genuine human being. She never left anyone behind or out. Gerald met Catherine at Broadacres Bingo; they became the best of friends and, on June 9, 2014, Gerald became her other half. Catherine knew almost all of Vermont. She was known for her beautiful smile and radiant blue eyes. She gifted her resilient attitude, forgiving love and true guidance to any type of person, no matter their hardships, and this was what was special about her. She will be missed more than anything in the world. We love you so much.…

One of Vermont's first hospice nurses spent a lifetime serving others Beloved wife, mother and grandmother Gladys Dinnany Zelman, 76, of Jericho, Vt., passed peacefully on Monday, January 13, at Vermont Respite House following several severe strokes. Having been one of the first hospice nurses in Vermont, and knowing that there were no acceptable paths to recovery for herself, she elected to leave on her own terms, refusing further treatment. Gladys was born in Jackson Heights, N.Y., and spent much of her childhood living near Long Island Sound. This inspired a lifelong love of the ocean and the outdoors. She always wanted to be a nurse. Her many educational attainments, including an RN degree from the Mary Fletcher School of Nursing, a BA from Trinity College and an MS from Saint Michael’s College, prepared her for a fruitful and productive career in both nursing and health care administration in Vermont. She served as a birthing trainer and as a nurse in emergency, psychiatric and hospice settings, and as a home care nurse (Support and Services at Home, SASH). She was medical director at the Lund Family Center, a nurse supervisor at Fanny Allen Outpatient Rehabilitation Center, the CEO of Maple Leaf Farm addiction treatment center and the site manager for CHP Burlington. She also owned her own business, Baby Sense, helping to care for high-needs babies and their parents in the home. Gladys is survived by her husband, Eric Zelman; daughter Alice and her spouse, Chris Norris; son George Peterson; grandson George Peterson Zelman, who is her adopted son; brother Ed and his spouse, Caroline Dinnany; sister Carol Lippencott and her fiancé, Harvey Portnoy; stepdaughters Anna Zelman and Beth Zelman; and sister-in-law Diane Zelman and her spouse, Michael Chaplin. All of these she loved and touched deeply. She also loved animals and is survived by her sweet dog, Sophie, and cat, Misty. She is predeceased by her son Brian Trevor Peterson and parents, Ed and Gertrude Dinnany. Her love of the outdoors included skiing, snowshoeing, hiking, diving, snorkeling and white-water rafting. She loved sharing with longtime friend Margaret; going for walks with Jody and their dogs; and laughing hysterically with Eric, Bob and Mary. She loved loving her grandchildren Bella and Brody and working with Eric to raise their adopted son George, who is the capstone to their lives together. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, February 15, at 1 p.m. at All Saints Episcopal Church in South…

Vermont PBS staffer loved Mister Rogers, community, connection and canines Scott Anthony Campitelli, age 60, died on January 13, 2020, of lung cancer. He was born and raised in a close-knit neighborhood in the New North End of Burlington. Scott was predeceased by his parents, Haroldine (Honey) Lois Sutherland and Robert Anthony Campitelli; his brother Bob Campitelli; and his crazy yet beloved dog Brody. Scott is survived by the love of his life, Manny Neuzil; his brother Jim Campitelli; his adored nephew and niece, Adam and Julia Campitelli; and Samantha Ringer and Marissa Neuzil, two young woman he loved as family. He is also survived by countless friends, both human and canine. If you knew Scott, you knew he loved dogs. Pilot, Ty, Wilbur, Maple, Ernie ... the list goes on. While discussing his obituary with Manny, he wanted to acknowledge the special place these dogs and others have had in his life. Scott’s work in the community touched the lives of many. He graduated from the University of Vermont and worked in the Burlington area as an educator and media professional. Scott was dedicated to education, whether it was as a teacher in the Essex and Winooski school systems, running the In-School Programing Department at Vermont PBS or his many years as the executive director at RETN. His passion was to bring information and direction to everyone he could. For most of his career, he did that through telecommunications — either through traditional television broadcasting or through digital content online. He firmly believed that all communities needed to have access to accurate and unfiltered information. Most recently, Scott returned again to Vermont PBS, where he helped revive local programming for the station and hired some of the best and brightest production staff. He was a strong advocate for the state where he lived and worked his entire life. He felt that the world should know about the special place he called home. Scott loved Vermont. He loved paddling his Hornbeck boat at the Green River Reservoir with Manny, riding his bike along the Burlington bike path and gardening in his backyard. His home was his haven, surrounded by his magnificent morning glories and the pear tree he watched grow to maturity. He ran the Burlington marathon three times and loved Mister Rogers, a story well-told and live music, especially Leonard Cohen. To his friends, Scott was an ever-present source of humor, insight, and deep conversation on politics or…

Burlington resident worked at Gardener's Supply and valued lifelong friendships Karen Gibson Stokdyk, 68, passed peacefully on Friday, January 17, 2020, at the Community Hospice House in Merrimack, N.H., after a yearlong battle with pancreatic cancer. Born March 5, 1951, in Riverside, Calif., she was the daughter of the late Kenneth and Kathleen (Meuse) Gibson of Rochester, N.H. Karen lived in the Burlington, Vt., area for the last 12 years, serving as customer contact center director in her most recent position at Gardener’s Supply Company. Prior to that, she managed sales and customer service for the FarmTek company in South Windsor, Conn. Karen began her career at Deluxe/New England Business Services (NEBS) in Groton, Mass., starting in IT before moving into sales and customer service. In addition to her family, Karen especially valued her coworkers, making many lifelong friends over the years. Karen delighted in sharing a good laugh, telling (sometimes tall) tales, dancing, gardening, Christmas and Christmas music, as well as action, scary or mystery books and movies. Members of her family include her husband of almost 23 years, Dale Stokdyk of Windham, N.H.; her sister, Kendra Burgess, and her husband, Peter, of Amesbury, Mass.; and her brother, Kenneth Gibson, and his wife, Heike, of Beverly, Mass. In lieu of a memorial service, there will be a small gathering of just the immediate family to remember and celebrate Karen’s life. As an expression of sympathy, memorial donations may be made in Karen’s name to the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network (PanCAN) at pancan.org. Assisting the family with arrangements is the Cremation Society of New Hampshire in Manchester. To view Karen's online tribute, send condolences to the family or for more information, visit csnh.com.…

Colchester native worked at IBM for 29 years Arlitha Anne (Howrigan) Racine, 76, died on Saturday, January 4, 2020, at the McClure Miller Respite House in Colchester, Vt., following a courageous battle with cancer, surrounded by her loving family and friends. Born in Colchester on November 15, 1943, Arlitha was the daughter of Wilson P. and Katherine E. (Harte) Howrigan. She attended elementary school in Westford, Vt., and graduated from Bellows Free Academy in Fairfax, Vt., in 1961. On May 15, 1965, Arlitha married Conrad H. Racine at St. Luke’s Catholic Church in Fairfax. Arlitha was employed by IBM in Essex Junction, Vt., until her retirement in 1996, after 29 years of service. She had previously worked at the Mary Fletcher Hospital (now the University of Vermont Medical Center) for five years and General Electric (now General Dynamics) for two years. She was last employed as assistant town clerk in Westford, retiring in 2008 after six years of employment. Arlitha enjoyed spending quality time with her friends, going to movies and plays, luncheons and dinners, shopping and just spending time visiting with them. Arlitha is survived by her loving husband, Conrad, of 55 years; her sister-in-law Alice Buinicky of Milton, Vt.; Alice’s daughter Melodie Lafromboise of Milton; and many cousins in Vermont, New York and Québec. She was predeceased by her parents, Wilson P. and Katherine E. (Harte) Howrigan; her father-in-law, Conrad L. Racine; her mother-in-law Edith (Martin) Racine; and her brother-in-law, Dennis W. Racine. Donations in Arlitha’s memory may be made to the Franklin County Humane Society, 30 Sunset Meadow, St. Albans, VT 05478. Arlitha’s family would like to thank Dr. Unger and his competent and caring staff. Thank you, Margaret. Visiting hours were held on Monday, January 13, 2020, from 4 to 7 p.m. at the Minor Funeral Home in Milton. A Funeral Service followed at 7 p.m.…

Barre-born woman grew up to teach at her hometown middle school Karen Franco Juknis, formerly of Barre, Vt., passed away Thursday, January 23, 2020, surrounded by family following a sudden stroke. Karen was born in Barre on April 29, 1951, to the late Helen Morrie Franco and the late John Lewis Franco Sr. Surviving her are her husband of 44 years, James Juknis; daughters Jennifer Juknis Kretz and her husband, Evan, of Nassau, N.Y., and Kristin Juknis of Barre; brother John L. Franco Jr. and his wife, Kathi Franco, of Burlington; and aunt Carole Cacioppi of South Burlington. Karen attended the Barre Town School system, including Trow Hill School and Lower Websterville School, where she met her dearest friends, Debbie Gable and Linda Marineau. She later graduated from Spaulding High School in June of 1969 and from the University of Vermont in 1974. She taught for many years at the Barre Town Middle School, until 2011, at which time she and Jim opted for retirement in warmer climes in western North Carolina, outside of Asheville. Following a brief remembrance for her friends in North Carolina, Karen will come home to her beloved Vermont. A gathering of friends will be held at the Hooker and Whitcomb Funeral Home, 7 Academy St., Barre VT on Tuesday, February 4, 2020, from 6 to 8 p.m. In lieu of flowers, Karen’s wishes were to make a contribution to a women’s support group of your choice.…

Former Sterling College president and Fish & Wildlife commissioner dies of Parkinson’s Steve E. Wright IV, 78, of Craftsbury, Vt., died at home on January 16. Steve was born December 12, 1941, to Stephen Egbert Wright III and Mary Will Johnson Wright in Milledgeville, Ga. After his father’s death, his mother’s marriage to Felix Billue in 1949 introduced Steve to a family tradition of hunting and fishing. These pursuits led to a lifelong love of the outdoors and shaped his career choices. Family life with two sons, hunting dogs and a tolerant wife was filled with sports, music, square dancing, and always hunting, fishing, paddling, roaming the woods and lots of storytelling. Steve could rally a roomful of people or hold a dinner party rapt. Storytelling served him well as an educator and advocate, and it endeared him to friends, colleagues and students. He loved sports and played baseball, basketball, football and tennis. Later in life, he played town league baseball with his sons. Steve earned a bachelor’s degree in biology at Georgia Southern College and a master’s degree in aquatic biology/fisheries from the University of Georgia. In 1968, Steve and his wife, Susan, moved with their newborn son, Stephen, to Craftsbury. First hired as a science teacher at the Sterling School, Steve spent 25 years at what eventually became Sterling College. During that time, he held positions as an outdoor educator, in administration and public relations, and for three years as Sterling’s president. Steve inspired students. Long after his Sterling years, former students continued to ask him for career guidance. Steve took three leaves of absence from Sterling: a 1974 return to Georgia, where he worked as a county extension agent focused on natural resources programming for young people; two years (1979-80) as a wilderness manager for the U.S. Forest Service on the Selway-Bitterroot Wilderness in Idaho; and served as commissioner of the Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department from 1985 to 1988. Deeply committed to habitat conservation, Steve didn’t shy away from the challenges in that work. He served seven years on the Vermont State Environmental Board. His leadership as a member of the “Rise to the Future” initiative helped quadruple the USDA Forest Service fisheries budget, increasing angling opportunities in our national forests. He retired in 2009 after eight years as New England regional representative for the National Wildlife Federation as a climate change educator. Barely two years into retirement, Steve became a leading voice opposed to siting 21…

Burlington native served the community for more than 20 years in retirement Ruth Burrell Farrell passed away comfortably after a long, healthy life. She is survived by her daughters and their husbands, Patricia (Robert Roy), Diane (Tim Bell) and Susan (Russell Burt); and her dear son, Paul. She will be deeply missed by her grandchildren, Ryan and Ruth (Croxford), Jacqueline and Rebecca (Roy), and Chad and Michael; as well as many nieces, nephews and cousins across the county yet near to her heart. Ruth was predeceased by her beloved husband of 61 years, Roddy, and her son, Peter, who passed in 2019. Born December 17, 1926, to Antoine and Irene (DuBois) Burrell in Burlington, Vt., she shared wonderful childhood memories with her older brother, Vernon. Ruth graduated from Burlington High School in 1944 and began a career that spanned more than 50 years. She married Roderick J. Farrell in 1948; they raised five children together and enjoyed their roles as grandparents. Ruth attributed her extraordinary memory to being an avid reader and a habit of completing a daily crossword puzzle in pen. Even with decades of professional experience in banking, Ruth decided to go back to college at the age of 58. She found satisfaction in the challenge of being a student again. Ruth joined her husband in retirement at age 60 with a commitment to give back to their community for as long as possible. Up until the end of her life, Ruth emphasized the importance of being useful and giving back to her community. She offered interpersonal skills connecting folks at Project Home. She welcomed people into the Food Shelf; she helped in the hospital offices; she checked on folks while delivering food for Meals on Wheels. Ruth and Roderick remained active for more than 20 years in service to others. During the winter months, they made time for travel. They played tennis, golf and cards with friends in Vermont and Florida. They drove and walked countless miles together and grew beautiful gardens in their backyard each summer. For the last decade without Roderick, Ruth found great friendships in residence at both the Pines and Shelburne Bay. Ruth’s smile and eyes sparkled whenever her grandchildren visited. Her ability to be fully present and extraordinarily patient was among the gifts she gave generously to all. Visiting hours with the family will be Thursday, March 12, 5 to 7 p.m., at Ready Funeral Home South Chapel, 261 Shelburne Rd., Burlington. On…

Devoted mother and grandmother was ‘an invaluable part of the school community’ Linda White Strandberg, 74, died Sunday February 2, 2020, at the University of Vermont Medical Center in Burlington, surrounded by her loving family. Linda was born November 26, 1945, in Woodsville, N.H., the daughter of the late Robert and Evelyn (Hobart) White. She grew up in Alburgh, Vt. Linda married Donald Strandberg in Alburgh on October 10, 1970. They resided in Georgia, Vt., where Linda’s life revolved around her family. When her youngest entered school, she began volunteering at the Georgia Elementary & Middle School library. She quickly became an invaluable part of the school community. Volunteering evolved into a permanent position for the following 24 years. She touched the lives of so many children and colleagues with her talents, compassion and good humor, forming special friendships that continued to nourish her life until her passing. Later in life, Linda’s world revolved around her grandchildren. She showered them with books, crafts, music, her time and love. Each grandchild grew to have a special bond with her. She never missed a game, concert, recital or birthday; she rejoiced in celebrating accomplishments and milestones, and she treasured the small moments in every day. In the way that she loved, she taught us to love. Our world is gentler, kinder and more beautiful because of her. Linda is survived by her husband, Donald, of Georgia; her children Jennifer Stockwell and her husband, Kevin, of Westford, and Scott Strandberg and his fiancée, Sacha Marston, of Harrison, Maine; her grandchildren Samantha and Justin Strandberg, and Mary and Andrew Stockwell; sisters Rachael (David) McFadden of Alburgh, Susan (Jeffrey) Haubrich of Cape Coral, Fla., and Wendy (Larry) Tatro of Alburgh; sister-in-law Diane Whelan of Branford, Conn.; and six nieces and their families. We extend heartfelt thanks to the first responders from Georgia Rescue, EMTs from AmCare, the staff at the UVM Medical Center Emergency Room and the nurses from McClure 6 for the excellent care given to Linda and her family. We are grateful for their knowledge, skill and compassion. In lieu of flowers, we ask that donations be made to the Westford Public Library, 1717 Route 128, Westford, VT 05494. A celebration of Linda’s life will be held on Saturday, February 22, from 2 to 4 p.m. at the Essex Grange Hall, 118 Center Rd., Essex Center. For those who wish, online condolences may be made at minorfh.com.…

Burlington auto salesman remembered for gift of gab and love of music Peter Gerald Keegan of Shelburne Road, Burlington, Vt., passed away suddenly on Saturday, February 1, 2020, in Burlington. Peter was born in Watertown, N.Y., on January 10, 1952, to William and Agnes Flynn Keegan. He received his education at Holy Family School and Immaculate Heart Central and graduated from Oswego State College in 1974. The majority of Peter’s adult life was spent in northern Vermont. He was married to Meryl Lebowitz (Tanych) in 1978, which ended in divorce. They had two wonderful sons, Benjamin John and Graham. Peter had worked in the auto industry, from salvage to new and used car sales. At the time of his death, he was employed by Freedom Nissan in South Burlington, Vt. He was well thought of by his fellow workers, and his gift of gab and storytelling allowed him to become one of their best salesmen. Music was a lifelong passion for Peter. He was a self-taught guitarist and vocalist. His love of music began while singing on the front porch with his brothers. This continued as he sang with the Young People at Immaculate Heart Central, the State Singers at Oswego State University and many local theater performances. He and his brothers raised their voices in song too many times to count at family gatherings. Peter was predeceased by his parents, William and Agnes Flynn Keegan; and his sister, Mary Ann Keegan. He is survived by two sons, Benjamin John (San Francisco, Calif.) and Graham (Los Angeles, Calif.); four siblings, Deanne Jones (Gerold; East Aurora, N.Y.), Timothy Keegan (Johnstown, N.Y.), Sarah Morgia (Bruce; Watertown, N.Y.) and William (Ted) Keegan (David; New York, N.Y.); numerous nieces, nephews, aunts and cousins; and a grandniece. A gathering in his honor will be held at Finnigan’s Pub on College Street in Burlington on Saturday, February 8, at 7 p.m. All who knew him are invited to bring stories, songs and remembrances to share with friends and family. Memorial gifts in Peter’s name may be made to Lyric Theatre Company.…

Woman with Down syndrome said 'I can do it!'— and she did Laurie Tedford, 58, daughter of Walter “Ted” and Marie Tedford of Underhill Center, died peacefully at Pennington House group home in Burlington on Sunday, February 2. Laurie was born on July 26, 1961, in Manchester, Conn. She graduated from Essex (Vt.) High School’s Diversified Program. Laurie had Down syndrome but never let that stop her. Her refrain was, “I can do it!” And she did. She learned to read and write and engage the world. She loved life. Laurie was a longtime client at Champlain Community Services (CCS) in Colchester, and she worked part time for more than 10 years at the Visiting Nurses Association in Colchester. She also worked part time at August First bakery and café in Burlington. She loved listening to music, especially Willie Nelson and Fleetwood Mac, among other musicians in her CD collection. She enjoyed the annual picnic sponsored by CCS and was ever ready to get up and dance. She loved being with people. At gatherings every year, Laurie composed an essay she would read aloud to family and friends. She was happy to be a writer, just as many in her family are. She often wrote on her computer, and she sang karaoke with her cousin, using her own karaoke machine kept in her neat-as-a-pin bedroom. Laurie loved to travel, and for many years she drove with her parents to visit family in Tennessee in the spring. She loved the ocean and enjoyed vacations in Maine and Cape Cod. Laurie is survived by her parents and brothers and sisters; their wives and husbands; and numerous nieces, nephews, grand-nieces, grand-nephews and cousins across the United States and Canada. This is a poem Laurie wrote that was published in the CCS newsletter, "DIY": SPRING I like spring very much Yes I do like going for a walk in the park Yes I am so happy Spring is here to stay Yes that makes me very happy To be here to look at it Flowers come out in the spring I love going for walks and All the beautiful things The sky is blue and clouds are white. Laurie is greatly missed. No immediate service is planned. A memorial celebration will be held in the spring. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be sent to Champlain Community Services, 512 Troy Ave., Colchester, VT 05446.…

Longtime nurse, world traveler and proud grandmother checked a lot off her bucket list Ida Jean McNamara lost her spirited, two-year battle with ovarian cancer on February 4, 2020, on World Cancer Day, surrounded by her family. She was 63. Ida was born to Orie and Pearl Schaper on May 1, 1956, in Midland Park, N.J. She graduated from Midland Park High School in 1974 and received a BS in nursing from the University of Vermont in 1978. She began her nursing career at Beth Israel hospital in Boston and moved to the Waltham VNA and private-duty nursing for a severely handicapped infant before relocating to Vermont in 1985. In Vermont, she worked as a floor nurse at Medical Center Hospital of Vermont before joining University Pediatrics in 1987. Ida’s final career move was to the University of Vermont Medical Center's Children’s Specialty Center, where she met the needs of infants, toddlers, children and teens with kidney ailments as a pediatric nephrology nurse, assisting her mentor and friend, Dr. Ann Guillot. She was a role model and mentor to many young residents and nurses who were privileged to work with her. Ida was predeceased by her parents, Pearl and Orie Schaper, and by her special brother Albert, who had Down syndrome. She is survived by her loving husband of 40 years, Mike of Colchester, Vt., and two daughters: Sarah Morneau and her husband, Brett, of Nantucket, Mass., and Rebecca Faour and her husband, Rami, of Colchester, Vt. She leaves four treasured young grandchildren: Rima and Aida Faour and Mac and Mary Morneau. She also leaves her brother William Schaper and his wife, Anne, of Midland Park, N.J.; her nephew William Schaper II and his wife, Michelle; her niece Holly Monroe; and her niece Laura Astorino and her husband, Nick, all of New Jersey. Ida is also survived by her mother-in-law, Mary Delaney, of Peabody, Mass.; sister-in-law Maureen Delaney and her husband, Shaun MacCallum, and their sons David and James of Waltham, Mass.; and brother-in-law Joseph Delaney and his wife, Jennifer, and their children Matthew, Katie and Julia, all of Reading, Mass. Ida’s smile was genuine and beautiful; with a twinkle in her eye and easy manner, she made friends easily. She had much love for those with special needs, fostered by her close relationship with her brother Albert. Her love of infants and children was boundless, both professionally and personally. That she was blessed with four grandchildren in less than four years was…

Community philanthropist and family man believed in giving back Bobby Miller — community leader, philanthropist, businessman, devoted husband and family man — died Tuesday, February 4, 2020, at the University of Vermont Medical Center surrounded by his family. He was 84 years old. Born in Rutland, Vt., on August 9, 1935, he was the third of six children born to Ruth and Charles Miller. Born an entrepreneur, Bobby helped support his family through a variety of enterprises. He was always fascinated with construction. At the age of 6, he would hang around local sites where he worked his way up the ladder, first picking up dropped nails, soon being allowed to ride to the lumber store with the boss and eventually guarding the wet cement to make sure kids didn’t ride their bikes through it. His lifelong love of cars also started early. One of his favorite teachers, Mrs. Hart, introduced Bobby to her husband, who had an auto body shop. His first repair was his little red wagon that he used on construction sites. Bobby had that irresistible spark that drew people to him. The hard life continued for the Miller family, with his mother working three jobs and his father having difficulty finding work. His maternal grandparents, Blanche and Edmund Elkey, were a strong and loving presence in his life, and he moved in with them for his high school years. He also developed an extremely close bond with his Aunt Pat and would remain close and devoted to her throughout her life, until her death in 2009. During high school, he was drawn to the industrial arts, including classes in auto mechanics and mechanical drawing, at which he excelled. These would serve him well in his future work in both heating and ventilating, as well as real estate development. Bobby’s early work ethic and resourcefulness brought him income in those teen years. Renting a garage with a half-pit, he worked on cars in the evening, returning them to the owner by morning on his way to school. After high school, he worked for the Howe Scale Company as a timekeeper. He knew that a company with 400 employees would be to his benefit. Employees became his customers! He would work on their cars at night and, in the fall, would come to work with his car full of containers of antifreeze and boxes of thermometers. On his lunch hour, he could prepare five cars for…

Despite narcolepsy diagnosis, Vermont man traveled the world Our dearest brother, Bob Barra, died February 4, 2020, at the Arbors in Shelburne. He was born Robert Sylvester Barra to Robert R. and Marion (LaVallee) Barra on March 14, 1932. In spite of never attending college, Bob was one of the most well-read men around. He always knew a little something about any subject one could come up with. Bob was diagnosed with narcolepsy in his early forties. Because of that disease, Bob gave up driving voluntarily; in spite of that vicious disease, he became a world traveler. His "itchy feet" took him to Europe, Mexico, China, India, Nepal, Bali and even Timbuktu! We hope, if there is an Afterlife, he'll be traveling to all the places that he hasn't visited yet. (We also hope he'll go to the restaurants he's never been to, to sample all the meals that his little heart desires.) Bob leaves behind his sisters, Pat of South Burlington and Beth of Rutland; his brothers, Jim of Fort Collins, Colo., and Phil (Dr. Sue Erisman) of Danville; his nephews, Robert and Justin; numerous cousins; and his special friends Peter Charlton, Susan Roland and George Silver. We would especially like to thank Peter Charlton and Robin Hood, Susan Roland, Greg and Barb Thayer, Glen Bassett, Ed Merritt, and Paula Terenzini for their kind and never-ending help. Bob was predeceased by his parents; his nephew, Christopher Day; and his lifelong buddy Thomas Schumpf. A celebration of his life will take place at the convenience of his family. There are no calling hours. In lieu of flowers, please donate to the Vermont Foodbank, P.O. Box 254, South Barre, VT 05670; Amnesty International; the American Civil Liberties Union; or your favorite charity. Happy trails to our dear brother.…

Obituary: Barbara Beals, 1928-2019

Obituary: Charles Armstrong Parker, 1954-2019

Obituary: Richard Lumbra, 1935-2019

Obituary: William Downs McDowell, 1987-2019

Obituary: Bud Kassel, 1928-2019

Obituary: Cheryl Kirby, 1976-2019

Obituary: Catherine Bessette-Kirby, 1975-2020

Obituary: Gladys Zelman, 1943-2020

Obituary: Scott Campitelli, 1959-2020

Obituary: Karen Gibson Stokdyk, 1951-2020

Obituary: Arlitha Racine, 1943-2020

Obituary: Karen Franco Juknis, 1951-2020

Obituary: Steve E. Wright IV, 1941-2020

Obituary: Ruth Burrell Farrell, 1926-2020

Obituary: Linda White Strandberg, 1945-2020

Obituary: Peter Gerald Keegan, 1952-2020

Obituary: Laurie Tedford, 1961-2020

Obituary: Ida McNamara, 1956-2020

Obituary: Robert E. “Bobby” Miller, 1935-2020

Obituary: Robert Sylvester Barra, 1932-2020