Obituaries, Seven Days

Ralph Oswald Humburg, 65, passed away on May 12, 2017, surrounded by his loving family under the gracious care of the University of Vermont Medical Center, in Burlington. Ralph was born in Switzerland on March 21, 1952. He grew up in Bedford Hills, N.Y., and spent summers at his family’s cottage on Peach Lake in North Salem, N.Y. Ralph moved to Vermont in the early '70s when he began his professional career as a mechanic at Imported Car Center. Later, he opened Ralph’s Foreign Auto, a success for more than 20 years. Ralph always had a love for fast cars. When racing competitively, he was commonly spotted by using No. 13, because he was not the superstitious type. This love for cars was shared by his son, Rolf, and daughter, Sarah, who worked alongside him for many years and continue to share his dedication to them. Ralph was a cheerful and intelligent man with a twinkle in his blue eyes. He was the original foodie and had many requests for his signature dishes. He grew up playing the cello and was the church organist. With an innate talent for music, he could play guitar by ear. His favorite band was the Grateful Dead, and he listened to them to the very end. He is preceded in death by his parents, Ralph O. Humburg Sr. and Beryl L. Humburg. He leaves behind his children, Rolf Humburg and wife Katherine Clear, Sarah Humburg and partner Ricky Gratton, and Aimee Matthews and husband Jon; his grandsons, Lucas and Mason Matthews; the mother of his three children, Betsy Shand; his sisters, Schatzi Humburg and Margrit Humburg; and many lifelong friends. A celebration of life is planned for Saturday, September 23, from noon to 3 p.m. at the St. John’s Club in Burlington. Please RSVP your attendance to Sarah Humburg at seventyfourbeetl@yahoo.com. Donations in his name may be made to the Community Health Centers of Burlington.…

Roger Ernest Berard, 55, also known as Beige, Raji, Jammie Man, Smoothie, and Poppi, passed away on August 22, 2017 in his childhood home in Barton, Vt., surrounded by his loving family after a short yet fierce battle with pancreatic cancer. He is now reunited in the mysterious beyond with his wife, Loli, and first-born son, Jason. Born on August 21, 1962, in Newport, Vt., to Gilles Berard and Jeannine Vezina Berard, Poppi always marched to the beat of his own drum. A musician extraordinaire with perfect pitch, Poppi was a drummer since the age of 13 when he joined his mother’s country-rock band, the Shangri Las. His love for music led him through life, playing in several bands including St. Elmo’s Kettle Band, Magnum, Fingertalk, Free Fall, Science Fixion and Zero Gravity, along with various jazz trios and quartets. He toured around the country and the world, eventually ending up in Burlington, Vt., playing regularly at Nectar’s in the early 80’s. It was in Burlington where Poppi met the love of his life, Loli, and they began their life and family together. Poppi was a loyal employee of FedEx for 22 years, where his precision and efficiency were able to shine every day. In late December, the most stressful time of the year for many curriers, Poppi donned a red, striped hat with two jingle bells, delighting his customers and delivering joy wherever he walked. An awesome father to his four children, Poppi’s home was always open and welcoming. He was generous and playful, quick with a quip and first to correct, laid-back yet here, there and everywhere. His heart was large and accepting, never holding on to any hard feelings or bothering with grudges. He simply loved spending time with people. Roger, though gone from this physical world, will never leave the hearts of his parents, Jeannine and Gilles, his brother Paul, his sister Lynne, and his Uncle Pete. He is forever loved and adored by his remaining children, Roger, Lucas, and Sophia; his son-in-law Luke; and his grandson Cosimo. His extended family and in-laws, his many friends near and dear, and most anyone who had the pleasure to have met him will miss his unique charm and incredible character. In lieu of a service, Roger’s family and friends celebrate his life in every drum solo on a table top, crack of the pool balls, swing of…

Diane Dexter, 65, was born in New Bedford, Massachusetts on January 15, 1952. She passed away peacefully on August 3 surrounded by loving family and friends. While her contributions have been many to her family and friends, she also changed the face of state adoptions in Vermont and was a moving force in advancing Vermont into a national leadership role in this area. She worked as the Adoption Chief from 1993 until her retirement in 2016 with the State of Vermont, Department for Children and Families. Her commitment to the children of Vermont and the families who stepped forward to adopt or provide guardianship remained deep and true throughout her career, and she was recognized as a national leader in adoption. Her accomplishments include receiving the Angel in Adoption Awards, the national Excellence in Adoption Award, on three occasions. She was recognized by Child Safe for her work in collaboration and planning for foster children, and the Vermont Children's Aid Society honored Diane with a certificate in Excellence in Social Work. She leaves behind an abundance of friends and professionals whom she nurtured; her sisters Deb Amaral, Wendy Boucher, and Patty Boucher-Allen of Dartmouth, Massachusetts; and her much-loved daughters Sarah and Olivia Dexter. A celebration of Diane Dexter’s life will be held on September 16 from 2-4 p.m. at the Unitarian Universalist Church at 130 Main Street, Montpelier. Please bring food and stories to share as we remember and celebrate Diane and the many ways that she touched so many of our lives. Gifts in her memory can be made to Project Family at Lund lundvt.org/give/ Please indicate that the donation is to honor Diane Dexter.…

After several years of dealing with complications of dementia and type 1 diabetes, Michele Forman died on August 28, 2017, at her home in Salisbury. She is survived by her husband, Dick, and three beloved children: Elissa (and her husband, Ron Bush); Laura (and her partner, Rae Miller); and Tim (and his wife, Imelda Stamp.) She is also survived by her adored granddaughters, Anna and Juliana; her brother, Jack; her sister, Maureen; and numerous nieces, nephews, grandnieces, grandnephews and cousins. She was pre-deceased by her parents, Theodore and Dorothy Meenan Vickers. Michele was born in Biloxi, Mississippi, in 1946 and was raised in the Deep South. She dropped out of high school, moved north and studied history at Brandeis University. Michele served in the Peace Corps from 1967-1969, teaching in western Nepal. This experience engendered a passion for learning about peoples’ experiences in other cultures that shaped the rest of her career. Michele taught World History at Middlebury Union High School for 29 years. Her classroom was a joyous jungle of giant plants, student art, maps, posters, provocative slogans, old couches and new ideas. Michele was selected as the National Teacher of the Year in 2001, an honor announced by President George W. Bush in a Rose Garden ceremony at the White House. He cited her work in the classroom, her introducing the study of Arabic language and culture to her students, her scholarship, her work on education policy in the US, and her tireless service to history teachers across the country. Michele treasured her connection to Vermont, but she was a global citizen -- determined to understand and engage with the world around her. She was passionate about peoples’ history, peace, equity and social justice. She studied, worked and travelled extensively, from a Fulbright program in Senegal to meetings with the Japanese Education Ministry. Recognizing that the Arab world has been misrepresented in the West, Michele strived to help her students and her professional colleagues across the US appreciate the richness of Arab history and culture. She studied Arabic at Ohio State University and at Middlebury College and then taught Arabic language and culture at Middlebury Union High School. Michele’s involvement with a number of professional and academic organizations included serving as a longtime member and chair of a College Board Academic Advisory Committee, president of the World History Association (2006-2008), an AP World History Consultant, co-writer of…

Jasen J. Morin, 42, passed away suddenly and unexpectedly at home on Monday, September 4, 2017. A celebration of Jasen's life and friends will be held on October 7 at Tangletown Farm in Glover, Vt. "Memories" Written by his dear friend Jeremy Patrissi Jasen Morin remains the most authentic person I've ever met. Even when he authenticity derailed his train, he remained original and indifferent to the hardships. In fact, he would often meet life's challenges with tenacity in what I can only describe as a game of chicken. Jasen was stubborn, unrelenting — a show of moxie standing up to icebergs only he had the desire and will to endure. He didn't always win, but he always picked himself up. Jasen grew up in our little estuary in Vermont in a time that helped foster the thespian in him. Everyone who met Jasen would be immediately drawn to his inviting, sweet smile and his soulful, loving eyes. His eyes looked as though they had seen a million lifetimes. They were so kind and forgiving, and his smile made everyone gravitate to him. He was easy, and he made you feel easy. I'll always picture him in his tie, short-sleeve white button-up shirt and khaki pants onstage singing Billy Joel his senior year. Jasen was passionate and funny. He would say the most unmentionable things so casually, and, in that moment of disbelief and laughter, the two of you would exchange a moment of uncanny joy and companionship because he helped you discover something about yourself. I don't know exactly what was the author of the pain he suffered from, but it haunted him early and was long-lasting. Jasen was a torrent when he was courting addiction. He didn't do anything halfway. But we loved him for just that — for his loyalty, his willingness to at any minute go with you anyplace, anywhere. When he had peace with himself, there wasn't a more kind human being. Utterly selfless and devoid of any pretense and genuine every minute, Jasen never, ever aspired to be anything but himself. He was always fully present when you were in his company. You could count on Jasen to tell you what he thought, and he had an intelligent mind to be a great resource for anyone. During his career in mental health as a social worker, he opted for the most difficult case…

Carl Peter Hannus, fondly known as “Pete,” passed away peacefully on September 2, 2017, with his two daughters at his side. Peter was born and raised in western Massachusetts, graduating from Mt. Greylock High School in 1964. He was an avid musician, playing the clarinet in his high school band and performing for musicals and concerts. He went to Boston University to study music, then worked as road manager for a jazz fusion band, Osmosis. Peter studied television repair via correspondence school in Boston before moving back to western Massachusetts. He carried on his passion for music by playing his guitar for his daughters. He made television repair house calls for many years before shifting with the times to computer chip testing. He retired to Vermont in 2013 to be closer to his grandchildren. In addition to playing music, Peter was an enthusiastic fisherman, a competitive pool player and an avid fan of all things science fiction. He was most comfortable at home on a Sunday with the Boston Globe in his hand and the week's papers stacked at his elbow, determined to read every inch. Peter leaves behind his daughters, Jessame Hannus and Amy Skapof; son-in-law Max Skapof; grandchildren Zoey and Theo Skapof; two sisters, Cindy Hannus and Barbara Hannus Crossman; and his brother, Ralph Hannus; as well as five nephews. He was predeceased by his parents, Reuben and Dorothy Hannus. His family will gather for a private celebration of Pete’s life in Williamstown, Mass., this fall. Donations in his name may be made to the VNA Respite House in Colchester, Vt.…

Kenneth Irwin Gross, professor emeritus at the University of Vermont and founder of the nationally recognized Vermont Mathematics Initiative, died on Sunday, September 10. Ken was a highly respected research mathematician and an inspirational and innovative teacher who later became equally well recognized as a champion for mathematics education. During his career, he held faculty and visiting appointments in eight states, Taiwan and Australia and served as program director at the National Science Foundation. He was recruited to UVM in 1987, where he chaired the Department of Mathematics and Statistics from 1988 to 1992. Under his leadership, the department expanded its mission in research, undergraduate teaching and outreach to all corners of Vermont. Ken cofounded several organizations with the goal of enhancing the teaching of mathematics in Vermont, including the Vermont State Mathematics Coalition and the Vermont Mathematics, Science and Technology Summer Institute for talented Vermont high school students, designated in 2017 as the Kenneth I. Gross/Tony Trono Governor’s Institute in the Mathematical Sciences. He founded the Vermont Mathematics Initiative to improve mathematical knowledge of elementary- and middle-school teachers and enhance their ability to inculcate in their students a love and enjoyment of mathematics. To date, the VMI has trained more than 500 Vermont teachers to become mathematics teacher-leaders in their schools and districts. The VMI model has been adopted in eight states and Australia. Ken also received many prestigious awards throughout his career, spanning teaching, scholarship and service, and was an inaugural fellow of the American Mathematical Society. Ken was loved and cherished by his wife of 52 years, Mary Lou; daughters Laura and Karen; sons-in-law David Rochberg and Matthew Huyck; grandsons James Aaron, Gabriel, and Adam; brother and sister-in law Herb and Louise Gross; sister Thelma Naymie; sister-in-law and brother-in-law Kathy and Lynn Bade; brother-in-law and sister-in-law Jim and Jodi Shannahan; and nieces, nephews and friends. Ken spent the final weeks of his life at the McClure-Miller VNA Respite House, where he was surrounded by the love and comfort of his family and friends, as well as by the tender care and kindness of the staff and volunteers, where the twinkle in his eyes and great smile were returned. If desired, contributions in Ken’s name may be made to the McClure-Miller VNA Respite House, 3113 Roosevelt Hwy., Colchester, VT 05446. A celebration of Ken’s life will be held on Sunday, October 15, at the UVM Alumni House.…

Kelly Brannagan King of Jericho passed away on September 17, 2017 after living with brain cancer for 1 ½ years. She died surrounded by a houseful of people crying, hugging, eating and laughing. She was a wife, homeschool mom, LLL leader, permaculturist, forager, church lady, nanny, and farmers market manager. She is survived by her husband of 32 years, Barry; her 4 children, Elizabeth, Sarah, Ben and Noah; her mother, Lucy Wilcox; 3 siblings, and countless family and community members. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to an organization which supports community and families, such as La Leche League, NOFA VT, or Visiting Nurse Association. The funeral will be Saturday, September 23rd at 2 pm, at the Jericho Congregational Church in Jericho Center, with interment immediately after at Jericho Center Cemetery. A reception and celebration of her life will follow at her home in Jericho. A more detailed obituary is at: https://kellysstupidhead.blogspot.com/2017/09/obituary.html…

Jim Glabicky, 52, of Jay passed away on August 22, 2017, surrounded by his loving family and friends. Jim was diagnosed with ALS in December 2015 and fought courageously without complaint against this life-altering disease. He went peacefully on his own terms at his home. Jim was born and raised in Marblehead, Mass. After graduating from high school, he attended Roger Williams College and New York State Ranger School and then completed his BS at the University of Maine in Orono. Jim then moved to Burlington, where he started #1 Pioneer landscaping, a business that he owned and operated for more than 20 years. Later, he started a second business, YaGirl Clothing Company, which offered outdoor work clothes for women. He hired local, paid his employees well and was proud of his product. Jim was a avid lover of nature and so went further from Burlington in search of the best skiing and snowboarding. He found that, and his heart, in the Northeast Kingdom of Vermont in the town of Jay. Here he purchased property and built his dream home overlooking "his mountain," Jay Peak. He spent his spring, summer and fall working hard at his landscaping business. He then spent his winters playing hard on "his mountain." Jim also loved hiking, fishing, cross-country skiing and racing his 1969 Datsun Fair Lady Roadster in classic car races (and winning). Spending time with friends and family was also very important to Jim. He was known for his booming personality and voice and his illuminating smile. Jim found a love he had never known before with the birth of his son, Olin. His life changed so much, in his words, "for the better." Jim was a loving, caring and incredibly fun father. He spent much of his free time on the floor, playing cars and drawing trucks. He also spent a lot of time reading books and sharing his love of nature with his son. He was heard, many times, saying to his friends, "He's the best!" He made it known to everyone how very much he loved his son. Jim was predeceased by his brother Steven Patrick Glabicky; his mother, Patricia Cloran Glabicky; and his father, Bob Glabicky. Jim leaves behind his son, Olin McKay, 6; and his girlfriend, Jo McKay. He also leaves behind his brother Skip and his wife, Luann; his sister Martha Fegan and her husband, Lew;…

Michael A. Valente, 68, of Waterbury Center passed away peacefully at home on the morning of October 3, 2017. He was born on Valentine’s Day 1949 in Watervliet, N.Y., to Al and Anna Valente and was the youngest of four. He was predeceased by his parents and an older brother. Two sisters live in the Albany, N.Y., area. He is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews. Michael was a well-known visual merchandiser in Burlington and beyond — in New York City, San Francisco and Dusseldorf, Germany. He could be seen almost daily in a store window arranging displays and dressing mannequins. He perfected the art of writing messages on the inside of the windows by writing in mirror image, and he always told a good story. In addition to his career, he was also an accomplished artist who worked in stained glass and, in recent years, clay. But his talents extended well beyond those media. He was also an accomplished gardener and provided support and guidance to people who needed help. As one friend just wrote, “He is going to make a great angel." Besides family, he is survived by his partner of 41 years, Bob Paolini, in whose arms he took his last breath. He was also greatly supported by friends and neighbors who provided comfort and care throughout his final weeks. We could not have done without their help. We’d also like to thank his oncologists at the University of Vermont, Drs. Julie Olin and Hibba Rehman, and his primary care physician, Dr. Robert Quinn. Finally, Central Vermont Home Health and Hospice ensured his comfort and that his final days would be pain-free. We are forever grateful for their work. Per Michael’s wishes, there will be no services. Friends will gather at a later date in celebration of a life exceptionally lived. You are invited to share your memories and condolences by visiting awrfh.com.…

Peacefully, with grace and strength, and surrounded by her family, Toby Ruth Schwartz (Goldman) passed away on Saturday, October 14, 2017. Passed first by her parents Irene (Strauss) and Gerald Goldman; twin brother, Gabriel Rutabaga Goldman; and avian companion, Gravy, Toby is missed and loved by her husband, Hank Schwartz; by her children, Aurina Hartz and Elijah Schwartz, as well as their families including new granddaughter Hanaleia Hartz; and by cherished friends from over the many years. Donations and cards are welcome — please send to 23 Goldman Ln, Jamaica, VT 05343. Well known as a master glassblower, Toby was expert at etching, graphite carving and stained-glass, and she was an inductee to the Museum of American Glass at Wheaton Village. Most likely, you would know her as part of the dynamic duo with her husband, Hank (Hot Glass Works in Jamaica, Vt.), creating their Heirlooms of Tomorrow. Toby was an artist and craftswoman in every sense of the word. She was proficient in pottery, precious metal clay, drawing, photography, gardening, jewelry and painting, and she was published for her Rebus artwork and folk art drawing collage of envelopes. You may have been asked to donate clothing labels to one of her quilts that were always within reach, or you may have sampled some excellent baked goods from handed-down recipes. Sixty-two years young, she was magical beyond this plane. A believer in astrology, tarot, reiki and messaging, she would happily ask for a communication for anyone — or sit down to read and analyze your handwriting. She loved the world and the Earth, advocated to reuse-reduce-recycle, belly-danced, played the dulcimer and could easily be seen driving the “star-car.” She was legendary for being able to remember everyone’s names, their children’s ages, their favorite ice cream flavor and the best recent one-liner joke — even if she started with the punch line by accident. It’s hard to say goodbye while you’re busy saying hello. Love you. Donations are being put into a fund that will go towards a gravestone unveiling and celebration of life on the anniversary next year. If there is any money left over, it will be considered for a scholarship program for education and the arts. Donations can be made here: PayPal.me/tobymemorialfund…

Another branch has fallen from our family tree. Sam’s passing was a shock for which we could not prepare. Like a tree without its branches, our lives maintain a void without you and we find solace in the many great times we shared. Memorial Mass Announcement: In honor of Samuel James Khouri, his Family will host a memorial mass at St. Michael’s College Chapel, One Winooski Park, Colchester, VT on Wednesday November 22nd at 11:30am. We welcome Sam’s family and friends to attend the service. This is being held to express our sincere gratitude to those that have shown many expressions of kindness and prayers to the family as well as the numerous masses held in Sam’s memory. We look forward to seeing you at Sam’s Memorial Mass on the Wednesday before Thanksgiving, as we celebrate his life. Samuel, our Beloved Brother passed away suddenly on Saturday, December 10, 2016 in Avon, Ohio. Son of the late Mounir and Anne Khouri, Sam has left behind a loving wife, Ghada Saab Khouri; beautiful daughter, Anna Tonine Khouri; his sister, Sadie Khouri-Roitman (Gary); brothers Dr. Rustom Khouri (Mary), Wafic Khouri (Saada), Mounir Khouri (Karen) and Christopher (deceased) (Diana); sisters-in-law Claude Zgheib (Charbel), Elham Makhlouf (Ephram), Carole Akiki (Gregory) and Mireille Saab; father- and mother-in-law, Joseph Saab and Bahia Akiki Saab; brother-in-law Fares Saab (Dr. Remi); several nieces and nephews to whom he was a second father and trusting confidante; many cousins, from Australia to Lebanon; and countless friends. Sam's impact on his family and friends is immeasurable. He was a devoted son, husband, father, brother, uncle, and friend. His unwavering faith and persistent optimism was only matched by the deep love he felt for his wife Ghada and daughter Anna. Anna was truly the light of his life. He treasured the moments he spent at home with his family. A proud Vermont native, and avid sports fan - Sam supported & lamented the Cleveland Browns and reveled in the recent success of the Cavaliers and Indians. He loved the outdoors - Sam had a lush, fruitful garden and golfed as much as he could. Every Thanksgiving in Vermont started with Sam at Quarterback for a 40-year-long Turkey Bowl tradition in his hometown of Winooski, Vermont. Becoming a father was a pivotal moment in Sam's life. He walked his daughter Anna to school at Holy Trinity every morning and valued time spent…

John “Ken” Lawless passed away on Friday, October 13, 2017, at the University of Vermont Medical Center. Ken was born August 28, 1939, in Saranac Lake, N.Y., and was the son of John and Marguerite Lawless. Ken Lawless was a writer, educator, performer and activist who had lived in Burlington since 1999. A lifelong activist, Ken attended Martin Luther King Jr.’s “I have a dream” speech on his birthday in 1963, was a faculty leader of on-campus protest against Michigan State’s early participation in the Vietnam War, and, more recently, was an active member of the Wobblies and involved in protests against Vermont Yankee. He was frequently seen in the Vermont press and on YouTube performing his original compositions and speaking out. A loving father and grandfather, Ken was also a prolific author of fiction, poetry, humor and essays. Published works included “Twenty Characters in Search of an Academic Novel” and “Ampersand & Question Mark,” published by Zetgeist Press in the 1960s and '70’s; mass-market humor including “Real Extra-Terrestrials Don’t Phone Home,”“Dissolving Rubik’s Cube” and the “Who’s the Next President?” series, published in the 1980s; and multiple essays in journals and magazines, including the Antioch Review and Adirondack Life. In his capacity as the director of the Center for Music, Drama and Art in Lake Placid, N.Y., Ken organized the arts programs surrounding the 1980 Olympics, earning an honorary Olympic medal, and staged numerous theatrical productions, including directing an authorized and critically acclaimed production of JP Donleavy’s A Fairytale of New York and serving as the director of the educational theater group the Prop Trunk Players. As an educator, he taught college English and history for many years at institutions including Michigan State, CUNY and SUNY; created an early AIDS education program and the Harvesting the Harvesters distance learning program to improve educational outcomes for the children of migrant workers through grants at SUNY Potsdam; and was instrumental in homeschooling two of his children. He graduated magna cum laude from the State University of New York, Albany, in 1961 and was MA/ABD as a Carnegie Mellon scholar at the University of Pittsburgh from 1961 to 1964. In addition, Ken volunteered for a number of local arts groups including the Burlington Coffeehouse, Champlain Valley Folk Festival, First Night Burlington, Burlington Songwriters Group and the Falcon Ridge Folk Festival. He also created a dozen CDs of folk poetry and performed…

Embraced by family, Robert Lawrence Kort’s curious and courageous spirit left his body in Groton, Mass., on November 10, 2017, after a two-year experience with advanced prostate cancer. Born the son of Marion and Roy Kort in 1951, Robert grew up in Poughkeepsie, N.Y. He graduated from Syracuse University SUNY College as a forest engineer and received his master's from the University of Maryland as an agricultural engineer. Robert’s work focused on improving the environment — including the Chesapeake Bay, Lake Champlain, and agricultural and urban lands — and energy conservation. He was employed for more than 27 years with the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Natural Resources Conservation Service in Vermont. Music was his passion, especially progressive rock and Celtic genres. He thrived as a disc jockey, first at Syracuse University’s WAER, and he later became music director at Georgetown University’s WGTB while in graduate school. Robert met his wife, Kathleen (Bard), while at Syracuse University, and they began dating in 1974, when she lived in Delaware and he lived in Maryland. Married in 1978, they resided in Silver Spring and Columbia, Md., until 1990, when they moved to Huntington, Vt., with daughters Lori and Kelly. They loved attending concerts, and Bob traveled to many in Montréal, as well as to Pennsylvania’s Nearfest. He had a unique knowledge and memory for the music he enjoyed. Bob loved to talk and was enthusiastic about nutrition, earth energy and water dowsing, cycling, hiking, and Volvos. Family camping trips encouraged his daughters’ love for nature. Bob connected with dowsers locally and internationally. He also led St. Andrew’s Highland Dancers, supporting Kelly’s dancing. He especially cherished his measured time with his grandsons as Papa. Robert is survived by his mother, Marion; siblings Laura Murphy (Michael) and Kenneth Kort; wife, Kathleen; daughter Lori Saafi (Jamel); grandsons Parker, Elias and Noah Saafi; daughter Kelly Eng (Nicholas); nieces and nephews Heather, Lindsey, Kenneth, Megan, Jessica, Sarah and Benjamin; and Kathleen’s sister Susan MacCarthy (Rob). He was predeceased by his father, Roy, and stillborn daughter, Erin. Robert’s life will be celebrated with a service at Richmond Congregational Church UCC in Richmond, Vt., on Saturday, November 18, at 11 a.m., with a reception to follow at the church. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to greenamerica.org/tribute or Richmond Congregational Church UCC. Please remember Bob with a walk in the woods listening for owls.…

Martin Levitt died peacefully November 1, 2017, at Ethan Allen Residence in Burlington, Vt., his home for the past three years, surrounded by the loving kindness of staff and residents. Born February 2, 1926, in New York City, Martin was the only child of Sara (Hollander) Levitt and Samuel Levitt. Proud to be descended from Russian Jewish artists and designers, Martin attended the Art Students League of New York and studied with noted sculptor Jose De Creeft. As an artist and designer, he produced and collaborated on paintings, prints, books and sculptures in a range of media; he was skilled in printing techniques including lithography and letterpress. His art-filled books include Poems From the Japanese, held in the Museum of Modern Art collection, Oriental Poetry Illustrated and No Single Thing Abides. He was affiliated with the No!art avant-garde movement in New York. Martin’s career in art education included several years at the Greenwich (Ct.) Country Day School, where he taught graphic arts. He also worked for a time in the local and international transport and escort of wild and domestic animals; he had an enduring gift with animals. During World War II, Martin served in the U.S. Army and, in 1948, the Israeli Army. Having moved to Vermont in his later years, Martin, who had been divorced, met Margery Glass, a widow, in 2008. The pair became devoted companions, spending many contented hours exploring country roads, walking along the waterfront or deep in conversation while Martin sketched an infinite diversity of tiny profiles, both human and animal. Martin was a welcome presence among Margery’s friends and relatives, enlivening gatherings and outings. Over the years, Martin, his beloved Margery and her daughter, Anne MacLeod, became as close as family. In addition to his artistry, Martin will be remembered for his forthright manner, witty repartee and appreciation for the beauty of all living things. He lived simply yet brought a discerning eye to the world around him. He took delight in noticing a shadow playing along a wall, the leaves of a tree shimmering in the wind or the last rays of the sun setting over Lake Champlain. As a boy, he liked to sneak into opera performances; late in life, the music of Bach still sent him into a reverie. Martin’s character fused the healthy ego of a brilliant mind and a rare humility; his generous compliments and heartfelt thanks…

It is with sadness that we share the news of our beloved David N. Spring passing on November 15, 2017. David was a kind, generous and caring person. He enjoyed hiking the Adirondack 46 peaks, skiing the mountains of America and traveling the globe. A free spirit, David jumped into fatherhood and grampahood with his arms and heart wide open. He is survived by his wife, Dale; his children, Brooke and Robert Bousquet, Adam Lewis, and Nathaniel and Jessica Blanchard-Lewis; and his four grandchildren, Marcus, Noah, Avery and Henry. David’s life was celebrated on Saturday November 18, at 11 a.m. at St. Anne’s Church in Middletown Springs and was followed by a graveside burial at the Pleasant View Cemetery in Middletown Springs. In lieu of flowers, please donate to the Alzheimer's Organization in memory of David.…

Leonard A. Klima, 93, Burlington, Vt., and Buffalo, N.Y., peacefully passed away on November 22, 2017. Leonard was born in Buffalo to Stanley and Josephine Klima on June 11, 1924. He leaves behind his loving wife of 68 years, Adeline Klima; five children: Paul Klima, Sandy Klima and Rob Dansker, Mark and Sharon Klima, Judy Klima and Anna Thelemarck, and Tim Klima; seven grandchildren: Jessica and Scott Sattler, Kaitlyn and Dave Mariano, Jamie and AJ Aponas, Morgan and Mitchell Klima, and Anders and Jakob Leonard Thelemarck; and two great-granddaughters: Adalyn Sattler and Zoe Aponas. Leonard was a black walnut enthusiast, random tree planter, plant whisperer, lover of all things family, rule breaker, joyful trickster, mighty electrician, storyteller extraordinaire, and devoted father and grandfather. He grew up during the Depression in a Polish American family and attended Polish Parochial school, where he had a bilingual education learning both Polish and English. At 16, he started working in a Buffalo Steel Mill to support his family. He was a veteran of World War II and served in the Army Transportation Corps. After the army, he finished college and went on to open his own business, the Klima Electric Corporation, which he ran for more than 50 years. He handed the family business down to his sons, Mark and Tim Klima. He proudly built his own home, as well as a family cabin in the woods which he shared with his brother and sister and their families. He was a selfless, loyal and generous family man, forever lending a hand whenever needed. It is our hope that we can continue his fine traditions of planting trees in random places, skinning copper for money, counting nearly everything in life, sharing garden vegetables and delivering fresh baked bread to family. Perhaps we’ll strive to avoid his less admirable qualities like licking our dinner plates or taking unpaid sausages from supermarkets. We can only imagine he is having a fine conversation on the other side about the health benefits of the mighty black walnut. If you would like to do something in his honor, find yourself a few dozen black walnuts, still bright in their green husks, and randomly plant them along the side of your favorite road. Repeat. Or better yet, send a donation in his honor to OneTreePlanted, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit devoted to planting trees all over the world: 145 Pine Haven Shores…

Joan Marie Cawley (Ardini), 87, passed away peacefully on Wednesday December 6, 2017 after a long illness. Joan was born in Winthrop Massachusetts on June 6, 1930 and raised in Revere, Massachusetts by her mother Emily and her father Edward. Joan graduated at the top of her class from Revere High School in 1948, followed by an Associates Degree in Business from Burdette College in 1950. After school, she worked for many years at the Boston Herald Traveller newspaper and spoke fondly of its fast-paced environment and adventurous staff. In 1954, Joan met her husband Jim on a blind date in Harvard Square. They were married on September 4th, 1954 in Peabody, Massachusetts. In 1957, Jim took a job at Northfield High School and they moved to Vermont. They started a family soon after. In later years, they spoke often of their friends and colleagues and the time they spent there as a young family. In 1963, Jim took a job at the newly formed Champlain Valley Union (CVU) High School and he and Joan moved to Charlotte where they continued to raise their family over the next 38 years. They were an integral part of the CVU community and active members of the parish of Our Lady of Mt. Carmel. Once her five children were in school, it was back to office work for Joan. She was employed for many years as a bookkeeper at Dakin Farm in Ferrisburg and North Country Landscaping in South Burlington. She went on to work as a customer support representative at Camden House Publishing and Eating Well Magazine in Charlotte, retiring in 1993. Joan had a love of travel, first with her children to Canada, Maine and Disney World, then with her friends on bus trips around New England. Joan soon realized she could organize these trips more economically herself and became the “travel agent” for her church and senior groups, making their way to Montreal, Atlantic City and Las Vegas. Although never more serious than the casino slot machine or church bingo hall, Joan did enjoy gambling, even making it to Monte Carlo once on a tour of Europe. Ever frugal, she kept a tally of her expenses and winnings and would be proud to say she is still ahead. “Nana Joan” was a loving grandmother and great-grandmother and enjoyed spending time watching soccer games, driving to after school events, attending concerts…

Kathleen O’Neil passed away peacefully on November 13 at her home in Warren after a long battle against metastatic breast cancer. She was born in Troy, N.Y., on October 27, 1957. She was one of two children brought up by her loving parents, Aileen and Albert O’Neil of Woodford, Vt., where she spent her childhood years. She attended Woodford Elementary School and Mt. Anthony High School in Bennington, Vt., and then went on to receive her bachelor of arts degree at the University of Vermont. She was a talented artist, especially when it came to designing and knitting beautiful winter hats, which became an at-home business that kept her busy for years, evolving into what came to be called Kathleen Knits. She enjoyed wind and water, becoming quite proficient at windsurfing and, later, sailboat sailing on her favorite Lake Champlain. She was an avid lifelong skier and enjoyed teaching at Sugarbush for a number of seasons. Skiing was her “therapy”! She was a strong, devoted, caring mother and raised two beautiful children in Bristol, Vt. She is survived by her partner and loving soulmate, Brook Weston; her children, Katchen and Quinn McElwain of Burlington, Vt.; her sister, Maureen “Tyke” O’Neil, and niece, Jaime O’Neil, both from Woodford, Vt.; Tyler “Hobey” Weston of Bend, Ore.; her best friends, Kyoko, Debbie, Lesley and Mary Ann; her beloved guard cat, Nellie; and so very many other special people in her life. She was loved for her kindness, generosity, great food, humor and, most of, all that infectious smile! She will be missed by all who were fortunate to have known and loved her. A celebration of her life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations should be made to her local nonprofit, Global Health Media Project, 30 Common Rd., Waitsfield, VT 05673 or globalhealthmedia.org.…

Florence Saucier, who has been called a "Queen of Winooski," passed away peacefully at the Converse Home in Burlington, on December 21, just shy of her 99th birthday. Florence was a citizen of Winooski for more than 70 years, coming to the city in 1945 as a new bride. She remained in her own home on Florida Avenue until moving to the Converse Home two years ago. She was born Florence Marie McKeough in Amsterdam, N.Y., on January 3, 1919. She graduated high school from St. Marie's Institute, where she met her future husband, a Vermonter, Lafayette Saucier. She earned a bachelor’s degree at the College of St. Rose in Albany, N.Y., graduating in 1941. Lafayette and Florence were married on June 9, 1945. Florence was Lafayette's anchor, providing stability and devotion as he proceeded from teacher to superintendent in the Winooski school system. She was also the wonderful homemaker and mother to one son, John. She worked for Saint Michael's College for 25 years as an executive secretary. Florence found much joy and comfort in the Catholic faith. She was active in the Catholic Daughters, soliciting for the bishop's fund and helping in other functions of St. Stephen's Parish in Winooski. In later years, Florence and Lafayette had many happy times traveling with the senior bus tours, camping at Malletts Bay, meeting with many dear friends at the Winooski Senior Center and enjoying visits with their granddaughter Kristin. In 1987, Lafayette died unexpectedly. Florence learned to drive at the age of 75. She delighted in the birth of her second granddaughter, Abby, in 1988, a year to the day after Lafayette's death. Florence lived independently in her own home until two years ago, when she moved to the Converse Home. She remained close to her Winooski friends and neighbors while receiving the help she needed from the wonderful caring staff at Converse. Florence retained a positive outlook and a held a true interest in the lives of all she met. She was always kind and welcoming. She was an exemplar in how to age gracefully. Florence is predeceased by her husband, Lafayette Saucier; her parents, John and Helen McKeough; and her brothers, John and Robert McKeough. She leaves her one son, John Saucier MD, and daughter-in-law, Karen Saucier, of Yarmouth, Maine; granddaughter Kristin Saucier and her husband, Jose Romero, and great-grandson Leo Saucier Romero, all of Washington, D.C.;…

Obituary: Ralph Oswald Humburg, 1952-2017

Obituary: Roger Berard, 1962-2017

Obituary: Diane Dexter, 1952-2017

Obituary: Michele Vickers Forman, 1946-2017

Obituary: Jasen Morin, 1974-2017

Obituary: Carl Peter Hannus, 1946-2017

Obituary: Kenneth Irwin Gross, 1938-2017

Obituary: Kelly King, 1960-2017

Obituary: Jim Glabicky, 1964-2017

Obituary: Michael Anthony Valente, 1949-2017

Obituary: Toby Schwartz, 1954-2017

Obituary: Samuel James Khouri

Obituary: John “Ken” Lawless, 1939-2017

Obituary: Robert Kort, 1951-2017

Obituary: Martin Levitt, 1926-2017

Obituary: David Newton Spring, 1948-2017

Obituary: Leonard A. Klima, 1924-2017

Obituary: Joan M. Cawley, 1930-2017

Obituary: Kathleen O'Neil, 1957-2017

Obituary: Florence Saucier, 1919-2017