Obituaries
• Linda Carter Capen Avery, 70, of Brattleboro. Died peacefully on June 30, 2023 in Vernon at the home of her son, Todd. Linda was born in Catskill, New York on May 9, 1953, the daughter of Alice and Charles Porter. She was a graduate of Brattleboro Union High School, Class of 1971, and married Scott Capen in January 1975. They had two children, Amy and Todd. They divorced in 1997. Linda married Lee Avery Jr. in October 2007. He predeceased her in December 2021. Linda had several jobs over the years. She worked at Basketville in Putney, and was a seamstress for Humane Trophies in Brattleboro and a dishwasher at Vernon Elementary School. In 1990, she started as a night stocker for the convenience stores run by Fleming Oil Company. By the time she retired, she was the manager of several stores. Linda is survived by her daughter Amy (Wayne) and their children Brittney, Sage, and Jayden; and her son Todd (Tiffany) and their children KerryAnne, Michael, Bethany, and Montana. In addition to her parents and her two husbands, Linda was predeceased by her brother, Larry. Memorial information: No services are planned.
• Anna Marie Borda, 91, died peacefully on Feb. 11, 2024, in Rockville, Maryland, after a short illness. She was born on June 17, 1932, in Tarrytown, New York, the daughter of Adelinda and Anthony John Tucci. She grew up in Tarrytown and graduated from Washington Irving High School. She then attended the Spence School for Girls in New York City. Anna Marie was known for her bright smile and her kind heart. She was a devoted wife to her husband, Timothy Borda, and a loving mother to her five children. She was also a proud grandmother to her 11 grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. Anna Marie held a variety of administrative roles throughout her career, including the County Trust Mortgage Division, Master Department Store, Brewster High School, and World Learning. She was also an active member of St. Brigid's Kitchen at St. Michael's Catholic Church in Brattleboro. Anna Marie will be remembered for her love of family, her laughter, and her commitment to helping others. She is survived by her children, Owen Borda, Christopher (Patricia) Borda, David (Andrea) Borda, Mary (Anthony) Miller, and Wendy (Lorraine Cotter) Toney; her sister, Linda Jane (Tucci) McCloskey; and her brother, Anthony Tucci. She was predeceased by her husband and her parents. Memorial information: A memorial gathering will be held on July 6, at 10 a.m., with a Eucharistic celebration at 11 a.m., at St. Michael's Catholic Church, with interment to follow in St. Michael's Cemetery. Donations to St. Brigid's Kitchen online or at 38 Walnut St., Brattleboro, VT 05301 or to Raphael House, 1515 Dunster Rd., Rockville, MD 20854. To offer condolences, visit phaneuf.net.
• Glen Carroll Chase II, 36, of Alstead, New Hampshire, beloved son of Carol Davis Mackey and Glen Chase Sr., died on Feb. 16, 2024. With a height of 6-foot-2 and a boot size of 12, his premature birth weight of 3 pounds, 13 1/2 ounces on March 7, 1977 was certainly disguised. He attended St. Joseph School in Keene, New Hampshire, and then Keene High School. Known for his long beard, kind heart, quick wit, infectious smile and generosity, Glen left a lasting impact on everyone he met. His generous nature shone through offering quarters at the grocery store to spend in the vending machine, buying flowers or plants for strangers wholooked sad, or for someone he felt went out of their way to help him, fixing a brake line in a snowstorm in the middle of the night so a friend could get to work the next morning, to bringing doughnuts to one of his favorite police officers. Glen loved to babysit his friend's children, allowing them to jump on the bed, polish his nails, braid his hair or teaching them to shoot. He had an eye for antiques, art. and junk. Once bought, he just couldn't part with the item even though he couldn't find a use for the new possession. Glen loved his cat Holstein and would leave a door ajar for him to roam in and out, unfortunately resulting in the loss of his possessions which, most of the time, he didn't notice. Glen's talents consisted of welding, painting, construction, wood cutting, and making people laugh. His real passion was motorcycles - riding, buying parts, and building from scratch for himself and his friends. He was still in search for his Harley-Davidson Knucklehead that we are told is in a shop for engine repair. Memorial information: A celebration of his life will take place at the Alstead Town Hall on April 21, from 1 to 4 p.m. Please bring stories and pictures to share.
• Doris W. Hallock, 95, of Hinsdale, New Hampshire. Died peacefully, surrounded by her loving family, on March 18, 2024, at Rockingham County Nursing Home in Brentwood, New Hampshire. She was born on Feb. 6, 1929, in Hinsdale, daughter of the late Marcus G. Worden and Ethel Mae (Flanders) Worden in the very house next door to where she would spend most of her life. Doris received her education in the Hinsdale schools, ultimately graduating as valedictorian from Hinsdale High School in 1947. Just a week later, on June 23, 1947, she embarked on a remarkable journey with the Holstein Association, the world's largest dairy cattle breed organization. Starting at a humble wage of 17 cents per hour, Doris dedicated herself to the role of executive administrative assistant for an astonishing 58 years to the day, retiring on June 23, 2005. Her dedication and pride in her work were evident, as she forged lifelong friendships and made significant contributions to the organization. Following her retirement, she volunteered at Hinsdale Elementary School for several years. On July 1, 1950, Doris married Martin L. "Marty" Hallock, and together they raised their beloved daughter, Susan. They purchased the parcel of land adjacent to Doris' parents, where they built their family home. Over the years, Doris and Marty enjoyed square dancing, vacationing at Spofford Lake, and the pleasure of getting together regularly with lifelong friends and family members to have potluck suppers and play cards. Doris held a deep affection for her hometown, actively participating in various community organizations, including being a life member of both the Hinsdale Historical Society and Wantastiquet Grange No. 133. She was also a devoted member of the Women's Fellowship for the First Congregational Church. In 2018, Doris made the decision to leave the family home and enter Langdon Place, an assisted living facility in Exeter, New Hampshire to be near her family. In 2021, she moved to the Rockingham County Nursing Home, where she was visited by family members on a daily basis, to drop off a morning cup of coffee and a maple doughnut (her favorite) or to play a good game of cribbage. Beyond her professional and community endeavors, Doris found joy in simple pleasures. An avid gardener and knitter, she found solace and fulfillment in these pursuits. She also enjoyed the camaraderie of playing Bingo but, above all, her family held her heart. Doris treasured every moment spent with her devoted daughter, Susan; her son-in-law, George Kimball; and her cherished grandchildren, Hannah and her wife Melissa Kimball, and Oliviah Kimball and her fiancé Jacob Smart. The arrival of her great-granddaughter, Molly Hallock-Lee Kimball, two years ago brought immense happiness to Doris in her new role as "Gigi." The four-generation photos will be treasured for years to come. Doris was preceded in death by her husband of 45 years; her sister, Viola W. Knapp; and her brothers, Homer C. and Richard H. Worden. Though they have gone before her, their memories live on in the hearts of those who loved them. Doris leaves behind a legacy of love, dedication, and community spirit. Her kindness, generosity, and unwavering devotion to her family and town will be fondly remembered and deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her. Memorial information: Services were held on March 25 at First Congregational Church in Hinsdale, followed by burial in Pine Grove Cemetery in Hinsdale. Donations to the Hinsdale Historical Society, P.O. Box 194, Hinsdale, NH 03451.
• James P. Johnson, a native of Walpole, New Hampshire, died peacefully in his sleep at his apartment in Bellows Falls on March 13, 2024. He attended school in Walpole and was a graduate of Walpole High School, Class of 1952. After graduation, he enlisted in the Army and served in Korea, attaining the rank of sergeant and earning an honorable discharge. Proud of his service, he was a longtime member of American Legion Pierce-Lawton Post 37 in Bellows Falls. On Sept. 7, 1956, he married Jane McGuirk of North Walpole and lived in Dover, New Hampshire, while he attended the University of New Hampshire's Thompson School of Agriculture. They moved to Wendell, New Hamsphire, and he worked for his sister, Ann, and her husband, Ollie, at Kathan Gardens in Newport, New Hampshire. They returned to Walpole in 1959 and he was employed by his father "Jack" Johnson at R.N. Johnson, Inc., a John Deere dealership that his father founded in 1929. In 1964, Jim founded the company's lawn and garden division, which he managed until his retirement in 1985. In his retirement, he farmed on a small scale, raising beef cattle and hay. He loved going to farm-related auctions and, over the years, built a vast cast iron tractor seat collection, a collection of one-cylinder antique engines and a massive collection of farm antiques and memorabilia. He also regularly bought and sold vintage two-cylinder John Deere tractors and implements. In 2000, he founded Abenaki Springs Farm, an organic vegetable operation in Walpole. During this time, he became a tireless advocate in the Non-GMO movement. He even had his car doors lettered and his license plate changed to promote the movement. Not being a fan of New England winters, he traveled to warmer climates throughout his later years. The first few winters were to New Zealand and then mostly to Florida. He wrote interesting letters about his excursions and made many friends. Jim is survived by his former wife, Jane and their three children, Linda McCullock of East Dummerston, Alan Johnson and his wife, Lynnette, of Walpole, and Steven Johnson and his wife, Lily of Russell, New York. Additionally, he is survived by eight grandchildren and two great-grandchildren, and his sister, Jane Broadrick of Concord, New Hampshire. Memorial information: There are no calling hours or services. Burial will be private.
• Vincent J. "Vinny" Latronica, 84, of Brattleboro. Died March 17, 2024, at Brattleboro Memorial Hospital following a period of declining health. Vinny was born in the Richmond Hill section of Queens, New York on Nov. 12, 1939, the son of Joseph and Minnie (Grasso) Latronica. He was raised and educated in Queens and Manhattan, graduating from the New York School of Printing in 1957. He worked his entire career in the printing industry and earned his Master Printers certificate. Locally, Vinny was employed at the former American Stratford Company and the Book Press, both of Brattleboro, and managed the printing department at C&S Wholesale Grocers, which he retired from following many years of faithful service. A lifelong Catholic, he was a communicant of St. Michael's Roman Catholic Church. Of his leisure time activities, he enjoyed puzzles, collecting Lionel trains, and spectator sports (he was an avid Green Bay Packers fan). He also cherished time spent with his family. On May 14, 1967, at St. Bonaventure's Roman Catholic Church in Jamaica, New York, he married Barbara A. Glembocki, who survives. Besides his faithful and devoted wife of 56 years, he leaves one son, Anthony V. Latronica of Brattleboro; a daughter, Anna N. Borgatti and husband Joseph, Jr. of Brattleboro; a brother, Thomas Latronica of New York; and a granddaughter, Ava K. Borgatti of Brattleboro. Additionally, he is survived by several nieces and nephews. Memorial information: In keeping with his final wishes, no formal funeral services are scheduled. He will be laid to rest in St. Michael's Cemetery in Brattleboro. Donations to the Windham County Humane Society, P.O. Box 397, Brattleboro, VT 05302. To offer condolences, visit atamaniuk.com.
• Robert Russell "Bob" O'Brien, 79, of Jamaica. Died at home, with his family by his side, on March 13, 2024. Bob was born in Brattleboro on April 11, 1944 to Lorraine (Pierce) and Russell O'Brien. Bob was predeceased by his mother, Lorraine Stark; his older brother Roland, and his sister Sharon. He is survived by his loving wife of 57 years, Norma; his sons Sean and Bruce of Jamaica and Paul Feige of Florida; his brother Clinton O'Brien (Kelly) of Weathersfield; seven grandchildren and three great-grandchildren; brother-in-law David (Helen) in Sandbank, Scotland; and many nieces and nephews in the U.S, and Scotland. Bob graduated from Leland & Gray Seminary in 1962 and then joined the Navy as a pipefitter on submarine tenders. He met his wife Norma while he was stationed at Holy Loch, Scotland. Bob had been a member of the Jamaica Volunteer Fire Department since high school. He held many positions, including Fire Chief, and in later years, was known as Lexa's driver of the rescue vehicle. No one could beat him to the fire house when an alarm went off. He was committed to the community, serving on the selectboard, school board, the Windham Solid Waste Management District board, the historical society and the TV Club. For many years, he and friends maintained an ice rink at Jamaica School for the enjoyment of the children in town. Bob was a caretaker at Stratton West condo association since 1971; he also owned and operated a dump truck and backhoe on many local jobs. His favorite job was working with his sons paving, and enjoyed the company of the paving crew and truck drivers for over 20 years. He will be so missed by his family and friends. Memorial information: There will be a gathering at the Jamaica Cemetery on Saturday, April 6, at noon, followed by a celebration of Bob's life at the Jamaica Firehouse. Donations to Jamaica Fire and Rescue, 4017 VT-30, Jamaica, VT 05343; Rescue Inc., P.O. Box 593, Brattleboro, VT 05302; or Grace Cottage Hospital, 185 Grafton Rd., Townshend, VT 05353.
• Kim (McCandless) Patterson, 65, of Westminster. Died on March 17, 2024 in Lebanon, New Hampshire. She was born in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania on Oct. 12, 1958. She had been married to Edward Berger for 16 years, who predeceased her. She later married James Patterson in 2006, who survives. She is also survived by her three children, Jennifer (Berger) Buckley, and Nathaniel and Ariel Berger; an adopted son, Jed; grandchildren Joslynn and Jayden Wright, Andrew and Alexander Berger, and Hesten, Trever, and Rosajean Allison; and siblings Kelly Wunsch and Scott McCandless. She was predeceased by her parents, Georgia (Berger) Schantz and Dean McCandless Sr., stepfather Maynard E. Berger, siblings Dean McCandless Jr. and Lori (McCandless) Costello, grandson Richard C. Allison, and nephew Jacon Wunsch. Memorial information: There are no calling hours or services planned at this time.
• Abraham Schuster, 93, of West Dover. Died at his home on March 18, 2024. Abe struggled with diabetes, Alzheimer's, and Parkinson's, but never complained. He kept his sense of humor and remained the strong, loving spirit many people admired. Born in Nyack, New York, to Oscar and Goldie Schuster, Abe was an Eagle Scout, beloved husband, father, uncle, foster-dad, athlete, coach, teacher, and mentor. He was a champion wrestler in high school and college. Although small in stature, Abe was nicknamed the "Mighty Molecule," and inducted into two Halls of Fame in New York. After two years in the Army, including time as a medic in Korea, Abe went to Penn State and earned an M.Ed. while also interning as assistant wrestling coach for Penn State's national championship team. He returned to Spring Valley to marry Faith Purisch in 1954. Beginning his long career as a teacher, Abe worked summers running the waterfront and water safety instruction at Camp Hill, Town & Country, and Ramaquois day camps, where he taught thousands of kids to swim. Abe's "real" job was physical education teacher and coach (soccer, track and field, and wrestling). Abe served as chair of the Physical Education Department at Pomona Junior High School (PJHS), where he was recruited before the school opened. Twenty years later, Abe retired at age 55, after surviving breast cancer. Faith, who also taught at PJHS for twenty years, retired too. Together, they set out to fulfill their dream - moving to Vermont near the Mount Snow ski area, where they could ski weekdays and avoid weekend crowds. When they weren't skiing, they supported the Brattleboro Area Jewish Community, which they treasured. Abe always had a smile, wisdom or encouragement to offer. He will be missed by everyone who knew him, most especially his wife of nearly 70 years; his sons Steven, David, and Jeremy; four nephews and their families, and the Jewish community. Memorial information: None provided.
• Philip H. Steckler III, 79, died Jan. 26, 2024, in Newmarket, New Hampshire. with his wife and three children by his side. Phil is remembered for his warmth, positivity, and legacy of broad-reaching community impact. Phil was born in Wilmington, Delaware, on Dec. 9, 1944, to Lois (Riegelman) and Philip H. Steckler, Jr. He grew up in Scarsdale, New York, and graduated from Principia Upper School in Clayton, Missouri. He earned his bachelor's degree in economics from the University of Vermont and master's degree in economics from the University of Missouri-Columbia. Phil's early career in Vermont included teaching math and economics at Mount Anthony Union High School in Bennington before moving to Brattleboro in 1971 and managing the regional office of Berkley & Veller Real Estate. Phil became a principal of Country Business, Inc. in 1976, where he spent the remainder of his career assessing, brokering, and stewarding businesses throughout New England. Phil was deeply engaged in economic, cultural, educational, and sport activities in the community. He contributed to advisory roles, on boards and committees, and as trustee for numerous regional organizations, among them: Brattleboro Area Chamber of Commerce; Brattleboro Development Credit Corporation; Brattleboro Rotary Club; Brattleboro Outing Club; Latchis Arts; New England Business Brokers Association; Pure Water for the World; and Vermont Chamber of Commerce. Phil's leadership in the community was recognized by the Brattleboro Area Chamber of Commerce in 2007 as Persons of the Year together with his wife Marcia. He received the Paul Harris Fellowship Award from the Brattleboro Rotary Club in 2008 for exemplifying "service above self." In recent years he served as treasurer of the board for Marlboro College, and as mentor for local entrepreneurs through the Seacoast (NH) Chapter of SCORE. Phil was a lifelong Christian Scientist. As a member of the Christian Science Branch Church in Brattleboro for over 40 years, Phil served in numerous capacities, among them Sunday School teacher, First Reader, board officer, and other committee roles. Following his relocation to Newmarket in 2020, Phil attended services as a member of the Christian Science Church in Dover, New Hampshire. Phil loved to participate in competitive sports, coaching high school football and alpine skiing while in Bennington and eventually coaching both youth and adult ice hockey teams in Brattleboro. For many years, Phil was one of the top tennis players in southern Vermont. He also enjoyed playing on the Brattleboro Reformer softball team, and he rarely missed a Tuesday night session of ice hockey at Withington Rink. During the late 1970s and early 1980s, Phil helped to organize the Brattleboro Outing Club's Washington's Birthday X-C Ski Race. Some of Phil's other favorite outdoor activities included sailing, fishing, kayaking, rowing, golf, and walking his beloved Labrador Retrievers in the woods. Phil is survived by his wife of 54 years, Marcia (Schenk) of Newmarket; daughter Erica and her spouse P. Bradley Rosen of Lincoln, Massachusetts; sons David Steckler of Brattleboro, and Peter and his spouse Erin Aeschliman Steckler of Brentwood, New Hampshire; and grandchildren Collin, Asher, Brenner, Nel, Tait, Anna, and Amalia. Memorial information: A celebration of Phil's life will be held on Saturday, May 18, from 2 to 4 p.m., at the Brattleboro Country Club. Contributions in his memory may be made to Youth Services, 32 Walnut St., Brattleboro, VT 05301, or to a charity of choice. Arrangements are being handled by the Cremation Society of New Hampshire.
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