College news
• Forrest Lisle, an anthropology major from Grafton, was named to the Dean's List for the spring 2018 semester at Fort Lewis College in Durango, Colo.
Obituaries
• John Adams, 88, of Putney. Died Aug. 3, 2018 at his home, surrounded by his family. “Captain John,” as he was know to his friends, lived an extraordinary life of kindness and adventure. He was born in Wellington, India, the son of a tiger-hunting colonel in the British Navy. A nine-year-old John was sent back to England to be educated at Branksome-Hilders during World War II, where he and the other boys made tanks out of wooden spools, shivered in cold water, and marveled at the fighter planes flying overhead. He was set to become an engineer, but he contracted TB while completing his military service and decided to become a forester. He did and he practiced as a landscape architect and had two children, Philly and Guy, a first wife that won't be discussed here, and a very nice life in Kent, England, until a wealthy aunt's death allowed him to retire and go off to fulfill his lifetime dream of sailing tall ships. For the next five years, he sailed footloose around the world on teaching ships, like the Golden Hinde, a replica of Sir Francis Drake's The Golden Hind, where he shared his love of seamanship and celestial navigation with dozens of young people who were learning to crew. Sailing down the west coast of California, he happened into the Port of Humboldt Bay where he met his beloved, a Montessori teacher named Penelope, and became grounded. Their first dates were spent training to become Hospice volunteers, which had a marked effect on both of their lives. John convinced her to sell her school and join him, this time in a camper, to go off around the world. And they might have spent years traveling to Egypt and beyond, but while visiting Penelope's family in Vermont, they got themselves adopted by a foster child they “just seemed to have acquired.” Penelope and John bought a house in Putney, where they lived for 27 years. John left his ships, but sailed into new, social adventures here. He volunteered with the homeless shelter, helped restore the tower on the Putney Federated Church, was critical in trying to get the Mabel Gray sidewalk to meander organically instead of lying boringly flat and straight. He worked with the restorative justice board in Bellows Falls, took computer programming classes in his 70s, and was the inspiration for many artists and the subject of countless paintings. He was an avid gardener and planter of trees, and drinker of tea who, nearly daily, looked out at the southern Vermont landscape and said, “We are so very lucky to live here.” He was a friend to all and will be sorely missed. Memorial information: A celebration of his life will be held on Sunday, Aug. 26, at 2 p.m., at Next Stage in Putney.
• Henry Merrill Allen, 90, of Winchester, N.H. Died August 9, 2018 at Applewood Rehab/Nursing Center in Winchester. Born in South Newfane on Oct. 20, 1927, the son of Florence and Merrill Ore Allen, and brother of Ruth Gould, who predeceased him. He was married to Gertrude Underwood, who also predeceased him. He is survived by his longtime life partner, Leola Ramsey of Hinsdale, N.H.; by nine children. Linda, Patti, Terry, June, Merry, Michael, James, Terri, and Bev; and by 12 grandchildren and 19 great-grandchildren. Henry will be fondly remembered by his family for his extreme love of horses, fairs, playing horseshoes, hay rides, dancing, root beer floats, ice cream, being a ladies man, and his love of seafood. Memorial information: Interment took place Aug. 18 at North Cemetery in Vernon.
• Audrey Alice Bauer, 81, of Putney. Died August 9, 2018, following a period of declining health. Born in White Plains, N.Y., on Jan. 27, 1937 the daughter of William and Audrey (Dearborn) Halsted, she was raised and educated in Trumbull, Conn., and was a graduate with the Class of 1954 at Bassick High School in Bridgeport, Conn. She worked most of her career as a nurse's assistant, first in a convalescent home in Stepney Village, Conn., and later at Brattleboro Memorial Hospital. Most importantly, she was a devoted homemaker who loved her family. For 28 years she had resided in Interlachen, Fla., before moving back to Putney to be closer to her family. While in Interlachen, she was a member of the Lions Club where she served two terms as president. She enjoyed spectator sports, skating, bowling, music, and playing the organ. Survivors include one daughter, Valerie Harlow of Putney; three sons, Frederick Bauer of Jeffersonville, Kenneth Bauer of Dummerston, and James Bauer of Interlachen; six grandchildren, one great-granddaughter, and several nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by one sister, Judith Lawler of Arizona. Memorial information: In keeping with her final wishes, no formal funeral services are scheduled. Following cremation, her urn will be laid to rest next to her parents in the family plot in Florida. Donations to the Putney Volunteer Fire Department, 14 Main St., Putney, VT 05346. To sign an online guestbook with messages of condolence to the family, visit www.atamaniuk.com.
• Kimberly Sue “Kim” Cobb, 59, of Westminster. Died Aug. 10, 2018 at the Jack Byrne Center in Lebanon, N.H, after complications from surgery on April 30 at Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center. Born March 10, 1959 to Hollis and Alice (Rhoades) Cobb at Rockingham Memorial Hospital in Bellows Falls, she was the surviving premature twin and was diagnosed months later with cerebral palsy. After many complications and surgeries in her early childhood, she eventually had to make her way around in her wheelchair, often times being seen with her brothers “popping wheelies” or “four-wheeling.” At the age of 9, she entered the Brandon Training School, where she resided for the next 23 years exploring all her capabilities. She returned back home at the age of 32 to live with her parents, where she was loved and cared for through the rest of her life. She was in a day program at HCRS in Bellows Falls, where she gained the love and admiration of many wonderful people, most of them becoming lifelong friends. She was a very determined young woman who earned many medals and ribbons competing in the Vermont Special Olympics. She was also a Green Mountain Advocate. She made hundreds of beaded necklaces for family, friends, and the annual Shoebox Campaign, as well as Christmas boxes for children in foreign countries. She spent everyday getting “loaded” with pennies, which she saved and sent to Joni & Friends, an organization that provides wheelchairs and equipment to children in need in many different countries. Her hobbies were also scrapbooking and various crafts. She could be seen many times “be-bopping” to her favorite music, especially Elvis Presley. She found great joy every year attending fairs, concerts, and plays with family and friends. She was a member of the Athens Community Christian Church and the Westminster Congregational Church. She is survived by her mother, Alice; brothers Gary (Jean), Joel (Tammy), James (Carol), Michael (Marjorie); a sister, Cindi Haskell; stepsisters Janet (Mike) Swain, Patty (Mike) Sweeney, and stepbrother Jon Rogers, Jr (Sherrylynn). She is also survived by several aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins and many loving caregivers. Memorial information: A burial service was held Aug. 18 in New Westminster Cemetery, followed by a memorial service at Athens Community Christian Church. Donations to New England Kurn Hattin Homes or Westminster Cares.
• Lester “Cookie” Cook, 82, of Westminster. Died Aug. 14, 2018 at his home. Born in Pennsylvania on June 24, 1936, the son of George and Mary Cook, he was a graduate of Bellows Falls High School and went on to serve in the National Guard. Lester worked at Northeast Culvert and retired from L&B Truck Service. After retirement, he worked for Westminster Auto until his death. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, spending time with his family,and laughing with his many friends. His welcome smile and infectious laugh will be missed, but never forgotten. He also enjoyed antiques, auctions, and was a great collector. Lester was also a Scoutmaster and was the First Constable in Westminster. He was a member of the Vermont Trappers Association, BPOE #1619, and Westminster Congregational Church. In 1955, Lester married Bernice E. Cobb, who predeceased him. Surviving are his sons Kenneth and his wife, Christine, Michael and his wife, Ginger, and Andrew Cook; his sister Hattie Miller; five grandchildren and six great grandchildren. Memorial information: There will be a funeral service on Saturday, August 25, at 11 a.m., at Westminster Congregational Church, with burial to follow in the Westminster New Cemetery. A reception will follow at the church. Donations may be made to Westminster Congregational Church, 3470 US Route 5, Westminster, VT 05158.
• Anna M. Emerson, 79, of Rockingham. Died Aug. 14, 2018 at Springfield Health & Rehabilitation Center. Born in Middlebury on Aug. 18, 1938, the daughter of Richard and Alberta (Lafountain) Benjamin, she was a graduate of Chester High School, Class of 1957. In 1958, she married Paul Emerson Sr. Together, they owned and operated Emerson & Sons from 1967 to 1994. She enjoyed her weekly trip to Simone's Styling Salon and was a regular at the Dari Joy. She was a member of the American Legion Auxiliary and the Bellows Falls Polish Club. She was predeceased by her husband. Surviving are her sons Paul Jr. of Westminster, Mike of Bellows Falls, and Brian of West Brattleboro; her siblings John Benjamin of Ware, Mass., Clara Willard and her husband, Arthur, of Rockingham, Stella Ploof and her husband, Fred, of Port Charlotte, Fla., Joseph Benjamin and his wife, Sharon, of Chaplin, Conn., Francis Benjamin of Middlebury, Josephine Tomala and her husband, Walter, of Westfield, Mass., and Lois Tracy of Brandon; plus five grandchildren, two great-grandchildren, and several nieces and nephews. Memorial information: A funeral service was held Aug. 20 at Fenton & Hennessey Funeral Home in Bellows Falls. Burial took place in Saxtons River Cemetery.
• Todd M. Friedman, 53, of Westminster West. Died unexpectedly on Aug. 10, 2018 at Pine Heights in Brattleboro. He was born Aug. 20, 1964 in Bethpage, New York, the son of Ruth Friedman and the late Charles Friedman. He is survived by brothers Russell Friedman of Florida, Stewart Friedman and his wife, Linda, of Vermont, and sister, Kim Friedman Clark and her husband, Charles, of Massachusetts. He persevered through several health challenges to live a full, meaningful life. He graduated from Bellows Falls Union High School in 1982, and proudly served as a deacon at the First Baptist Church in Bellows Falls for many years. Todd was best known for his quick wit and tremendous sense of humor, with a distinctive, infectious laugh that filled a room. He was an avid reader and loved movies of all kinds. He possessed an impressive knowledge on topics ranging from music, literature, film, and history. He also had a fond appreciation for his pets, especially his Siamese cat, Tai. Most of all, Todd was known as a truly kind and caring person who valued his relationships with his family and friends above all else. Memorial information: A celebration of life service was held Aug. 18 at the First Baptist Church in Bellows Falls.
• Richard “Dickie” Gilligan, 85, of Brattleboro and Whipple Hollow. Died Aug. 10, 2018, at his home, surrounded by his family. He was born in West Rutland on Dec. 12, 1932, the son of John and Anna (Harrison) Gilligan. He attended West Rutland and Rutland High School and Rutland Business College. He was an Army veteran, serving during the Korean War with the 8th Army. In 1960, he married Marie (Mondella) Gilligan. They were married for nearly 58 years. He was employed by Pratt and Whitney and General Electric before he started his own businesses (his last being Gilligan's Antiques). He enjoyed hunting, fishing, sports, antiquing, reading at the local library and watching his children and grandchildren playing sports. Also, he loved his time in Whipple Hollow, not far from West Rutland, where he built his second home and had many family reunions. Surviving are his wife; three sons, Rick Gilligan and his wife, Kelly, of Amherst, N.H., Glenn Gilligan of Brattleboro and Whipple Hollow, and Randy Gilligan and his wife, Patty, of Vernon; a sister, Anna (Gilligan) Bates of Rutland, four grandchildren, and several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by seven brothers: John, Kenneth, David, Edward, William, Patrick, and Tommy, and a sister, Mary (Gilligan) Lundrigan. Memorial information: A funeral Mass was held on Aug. 15 in St. Bridget's Church in West Rutland, burial in St. Bridget's Cemetery. Donations to Christ the King School, 60 South Main St., Rutland, VT 05701.
• Deborah “Debbi” Ruth Kendall, 59, of Brattleboro. Died on Aug. 3, 2018 with her family by her side. She was born in Boston to the late James and Lilian Beane. She was the loving wife of Barry Kendall of Brattleboro. She is also survived by her daughters Brianna and her husband, Will Lowell and Autumn Kendall and her life partner Kevin Wamsley; and Debbi's loving pup, Razi. She enjoyed day trips with her family to pick apples, crafts, baking, and spending time in the garden with her husband. She will be greatly missed by so many, and has a place in many hearts. Memorial information: A memorial service will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, you can help out the family with funeral costs by visiting www.gofundme.com/loss-of-a-wonderful-woman.
• Peter R. Nadolny, 85, of Westminster. Died July 21, 2018 at the Jack Byrne Palliative Center in Lebanon, N.H. He and beloved wife. Jeanne Louise Austin, who died last year, enjoyed a unique “playwright-actress” relationship, creating mono-dramas written by Peter and brought to life by Jeanne on many stages. Blackberry Slump was their New Jersey cashmere goat farm where they lived before they moved to Vermont, near Jeanne's son, Bret R. Nelson. Children from Peter's previous marriage in New Jersey are Christopher J. (Ellen) Nadolny, Mary Beth (Aaron) Vander Horn, and Rebecca S. Nadolny. He also leaves five grandchildren and one great-grandchild. He was born Jan. 10, 1933 in Buffalo, N.Y., to Dr. Chester John and Emily Alexandria (Brzezicki) Nadolny. In 1951 he graduated from Canisius High School. Studying at SUNY-Buffalo Medical School, he realized being a doctor was not for him. He attended night school for psychology while serving as a technician at Roswell Park Cancer Institute until being drafted into the Army in 1956. His duty was conducted at Fort Monmouth, N.J., related to medical services. He then took a job at Morristown Clinical Lab, eventually becoming a manager and purchasing agent. Although he obtained a teaching certificate from Fairleigh Dickinson, he did not care to stand in front of a class, so he remained at the lab. In 1972, Peter married Jeanne and took employment as a quality control supervisor at Sigma Chemical Company in St. Louis, Mo., and later moved to Florida working in the field of product reliability. Returning to New Jersey, he was employed at Becton Dickinson. In later years, his services were contracted as a clinical chemist and quality assurance consultant for the medical products industry. In 1984, Peter and Jeanne formed “HerStory Productions” with a repertoire of seven one-woman shows to present the lives of our fore mothers in a dramatic, interesting manner. Brilliant research was required to write these plays, for example, the history of a Civil War nurse in Cyclone in Calico. Peter's work was recognized with notable showings, such as Duty's Faithful Child: A Visit With Louisa May Alcott, performed at L.M. Alcott's house in Concord, Mass. Peter became a member of All Souls Church in West Brattleboro in 2012. During his membership he served on the Board of Trustees and the Finance Committee, as well as sang in its choir. His dependable bass voice was also part of The Guilford Chamber Singers. Music was a significant part of his life, attending numerous performances and supporting local artists. If you only conversed with Peter for a short time, you'd know his humor was a big part of his personality. Coin collecting, studying maps, research of religions, statistics, poodles, hockey, genealogy, and Latin were other passions Peter enjoyed. Memorial information: A memorial will be held at All Souls Church on a date to be determined.
• Paula L. Ryan, 86, of Hinsdale, N.H. Died Aug. 14, 2018 at home, comfortable and content, under the watchful care of her daughter, surrounded by her pets, art, travel momentos, local crafts, plants, and the found objects from the natural world that fllled her spirit. She was a devoted and loving mother and grandmother, and will be sorely missed as the keeper of family history, memory, and lore, as well as for her unshakeable, unconditional love for her daugther and grandchildren. She loved deeply. She is survived by her daughter, Sarah Gant of Chestnut Hill, Mass.; and her grandchildren, Sam Gant and Sophia Gant, both of Philadelphia. She was predeceased by three husbands; her son, Paul Brickman; and her best friend, Norma Judson. Memorial information: A funeral service was held Aug. 20 at St. Michael's Episcopal Church. Interment took place at Oakwood Cemetery in Townshend, as she rejoined Jim Ryan, her “best for last” husband, for the 13th anniversary of his death on Aug. 21, 2005. Memorial donations may be made to St. Michael's Episcopal Church, 16 Bradley Ave., Brattleboro, VT 05301. To leave a message of condolence, visit www.phaneuf.net.
• Barbara L. Tidd, 85, formerly of Westminster. Died Aug. 15, 2018 at The Villa in St. Albans. She was born Jan. 17, 1933 in Montgomery Center, to the late Leland and Maude (Demar) Snider. She attended schools in Montgomery and Enosburg Falls. After school, she worked on the family farm. She married Donald Wetherby in 1950. She worked at a printing company in Brattleboro, where she gained a love for books and how to repair them. She then went on to care for others and worked at Linden Lodge nursing home. She was an active and loyal member of the VFW and Eagles Club in Brattleboro, where she served as state president and received an award for being the Mother of the Year. She will be remembered for her cooking, especially chicken n' biscuits and her blue ribbon winning pickles. Barbara loved all animals and they loved her back. Her favorite hobbies included, going to lawn sales, taking trips to the casino, horse and dog races, and having a good time. After the loss of her husband Donald in 1972, she remarried Edward Tidd in 1975. She is survived by her children, Ginger Desautels and her husband Pierre of Greencastle, Pa., Lee “Pepper” Wetherby and his wife, Sandy, of Schodack Landing, N.Y., Donald Wetherby and his wife, Madeline, of Richford, Susan Clark of Newbury, N.H., and Gary Wetherby of Marlow, N.H.; stepchildren, Sandy, Brenda, and David; 14 grandchildren and 26 great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandchild; her brother, Doug “Shorty” Snider and his wife Wanda; her sisters, Marion Peters and her husband Dennis, Marguerite Robtoy, Mildred Gundry, and Sally Ryea and her husband Hollis; and several nieces and nephews. Besides her parents, Barbara was predeceased by her two husbands; her grandson, Jesse Wetherby; in-laws Milton Clark, Elrick Robtoy, Al Gundry, and Lee Wetherby; brothers Richard and Sonny Snider and many, many, four-legged friends. Memorial information: A funeral Mass was held Aug. 18 at All Saints Catholic Church in Richford. Interment will be held on Wednesday, Aug. 22, at 11 a.m., in the Westminster Cemetery with a reception to follow at the Eagles Club in Brattleboro. Donations to Franklin County Animal Rescue, 30 Sunset Meadows, St Albans City, VT 05478.