Obituaries
• Stephen Joseph Belczak, 74, of Westminster West. Died unexpectedly Nov. 7, 2025. He was born Dec. 25,1951, in Bellows Falls, the son of Joseph and Amelia (Poluch) Belczak. Steve had a fervent commitment to grass roots activism. He was a longtime co-chair of the Connecticut River Joint Commission and helped to develop the River Corridor Management plan. He also worked for many years as a mental health professional and advocate at the Brattleboro Retreat. He was known for his compassionate patient care and was also a vocal advocate of workers’ rights and a strong union for health care workers. Steve was a frequent contributor to The Commons with his thoughts on social, political, and labor issues. He was very concerned about the state of our country. He was a liberal with a capital “L.” He loved bicycling with special friends along the Vermont roads, past the woods and villages. In the past, fly fishing was a happy time for him and he loved being out in nature. Music was a love of his and he would introduce his new discoveries to his friends and relatives. He had a great sense of humor, which his nephew has also. His one passion in life was his wife, Virginia, and during her illness he cared for her until it became impossible. Steve and Virginia had a large circle of devoted friends who loved them, had good times with them, and helped them in hard times. Steve will be missed by many. Friends, family and “the hobbit house,” which is what he called their home, will miss both Steve and Virginia. The house is now being cared for by “youngsters” who know that special people lived there and will hopefully preserve their memory. Steve leaves his much-loved wife, Virginia Wyoming, and his two sisters, Frances Church of Brattleboro and JoAnne Merrill of Hendersonville, North Carolina. He also leaves several nieces and nephews and two grandnephews. Memorial information: There will be a celebration of Steve’s life at the Westminster Congregational Church later this summer at a date and time to be announced.
• Philip “Phil” Buffum Jr., 65, died peacefully and surrounded by love June 23, 2026, at Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center in Lebanon, New Hampshire. Phil was born April 16, 1961, in Greenfield, Massachusetts, to the late Philip Buffum Sr. and Ruth Buffum. He was also predeceased by his beloved daughter, Heather Buffum, whose memory he carried closely in his heart. Phil was a quiet man, but his life spoke volumes. He was steady, kind, dependable, and deeply selfless. He was the kind of man who noticed what was broken and fixed it before anyone had to ask. Whether it was a building, a vehicle, a project, or simply someone having a hard day, Phil had a way of showing up, quietly helping, and leaving things better than he found them. He showed his love through his actions, his reliability, and his willingness to help others without being asked. Phil spent much of his life working in maintenance and handyman roles, where his natural ability to solve problems and care for the spaces around him became more than just a skill — it became part of who he was. After working at Swift River Academy, Phil found what became his favorite and most meaningful job at Cedarcrest Center in Keene, New Hampshire. There, he took great pride in maintaining the facility, repairing equipment and vehicles, and supporting the nurses, aides, therapists, and staff who care for children with complex medical and developmental needs. Phil was deeply proud to be part of Cedarcrest’s mission, and he wore his Cedarcrest shirts proudly wherever he went. In September 2014, Phil reconnected with Melinda Thomas, whom he had known years earlier through Royal Rangers and Missionettes. What began as a re-connection quickly became something much more. On Feb. 15, 2015, Phil and Melinda were married at Melinda’s mother’s home, surrounded by family. From their very first date, Phil welcomed Melinda’s sons, Camron Kennedy and David Kennedy, into his life and loved them as his own. He was especially proud of Camron and rarely missed an opportunity to tell others about his accomplishments in healthcare. Phil and Melinda quickly built a life centered around love, laughter, and companionship. Together they enjoyed crafts, projects, camping, and the simple joy of sitting together people watching. In 2021, they purchased their dream getaway at Kenolie Village Campground in Newfane, where many of their happiest memories were made. Phil brought joy, stability, and light back into Melinda’s life, and together they shared a love that was evident to everyone who knew them. Phil is survived by his devoted wife, Melinda (Thomas) Buffum; his sisters, Melodie Bertoli and her husband Mario, and Beth Buffum; his nephews, Gabriel and Caleb Bertoli; Heather’s daughters, Jade Chaffee and Linda Lackey; his sons, Camron Kennedy and David Kennedy; David’s children, Avery Dubiel and Arlo Kennedy; as well as many extended family members, friends, coworkers, and neighbors whose lives were enriched by knowing him. Phil will be deeply missed, forever loved, and remembered always as a man who quietly made the world a better place. His legacy lives on in every life he touched, every problem he solved, every burden he helped carry, and every act of kindness he performed without expecting anything in return. Memorial information: In keeping with Phil’s final wishes, no formal funeral will be held. A private burial will be held at a later date at the Oak Lawn Cemetery in Hinsdale, New Hampshire. Donations to Cedarcrest Center, 91 Maple Ave., Keene, NH 03431, in honor of the work Phil loved so deeply and the children, caregivers, nurses, therapists, and staff he was so proud to support. To offer condolences, visit atamaniuk.com.
• James D. Carr, 100, of Bellows Falls. Died June 23, 2026. He was born Feb. 1, 1926, in West Halifax, the son of Donald and Lu (Brown) Carr. He attended schools in West Halifax and Putney. At age 14, he dropped out of school and went to work on a farm in Putney for room and board for 50 cents a week. He moved to Bellows Falls with his family at age 15 and worked grading eggs at Hubbard, Parker, and Small. At age 17, he began working as a truck driver for St. Johnsbury Trucking and worked there until he was drafted into the Army at age 18. During World War II, he proudly served in direct combat in Germany and France, including fighting in the Battle of the Bulge. After being honorably discharged in 1946, he returned to Vermont. On Oct. 14, 1950, he married Gloria (Tolaro) Carr, and they lived their entire married lives in Bellows Falls. They celebrated their 75th anniversary in October 2025. Jim was employed as a dispatcher for Gay’s Express, St. Johnsbury Trucking, and Quinn Freight Lines. His last 21 years of employment were spent as a maintenance engineer for Rockingham Memorial Hospital. In 1970, he earned his GED, celebrating the achievement with his daughter who graduated from high school that year. He was a member of the Bellows Falls Fire Department for 38 years, retiring in 1988 at the rank of Deputy Chief. Jim was a seventh generation Vermonter with a wry sense of humor and wit and a strong work ethic. He was well known for his handyman, woodworking, and chair-caning skills, and his chairs are owned by many people throughout Vermont. He could fix anything and was a tremendous help to his daughter over the years in the renovation and upkeep of her old house in Huntington. One of the ultimate highlights of his later years was traveling to the World War II Memorial alongside his loving son. This unforgettable trip honored his legacy of sacrifice and created an enduring bond of gratitude that will never be forgotten. He was a loving and devoted father to his son, Jim, and daughter, Jeanine, and grandfather to his granddaughter, Emilie. He was predeceased by his father, mother, and brothers, Rupert and Loren. He is survived by his loving wife, Gloria; his daughter, Jeanine; his son, James (Alice); his granddaughter, Emilie (Seth); great-grandchildren Teddy, Audrey, and Beckam, and many nieces and nephews. He will be missed more than words can express, and his family are eternally grateful that he was part of their lives. Memorial information: A graveside service will take place July 18, 2026, at 11 a.m. at Oak Hill Cemetery in Bellows Falls.Donations to Bayada Hospice, 1222 Putney Rd., Suite 107, Brattleboro, VT 05301.
• Harry B. “Nick” Carter III, 63, died June 15, 2026, at Citrus Health & Rehab in Inverness, Florida, after a long illness. Nick was born in Nashua, New Hampshire, son of the late Harry B. Carter Jr. and June (Young) Carter. He received his bachelor’s degree from Skidmore College, where he started his business career. Nick’s lifelong entrepreneurial mindset was balanced with a dual passion for arts and science. Whether as a business owner or business executive, he took pride in knowing his efforts would provide stable jobs that allowed employees to establish roots and raise their own families. Creating and running small businesses was his passion. Predeceased by his brothers Richard and James, Nick is survived by his wife, Samantha Carter; brother, William Y. Carter (Kathy) of Epping, New Hampshire; sister, Terry Carter of Brattleboro; niece, Raina (Shawn) Carter; great nephew Amos Carter of Portland, Oregon; father-in-law, Richard Wisniewski of Saratoga Springs, New York; sisters-in-law, Caroline Wisniewski of Cranberry, New Jersey, and Suzanne Nolan (Christopher) of New Rochelle, New York, and their children, Andrew, Peter, and Frances, in addition to extended family members and friends who will miss him dearly. Memorial information: A private family memorial will be held in New Hampshire. Donations may be made to VITASCommunityconnection.org, whose compassionate staff were a source of comfort to Nick and his family in his final months.
• Robert Clements II, 76, died June 24, 2026, 14 months after being diagnosed with ALS. “My medical team, led by Dr Stommel, were fantastic,” he said before his death. “The support I received from family and friends was humbling. And I am most grateful to my wife, Betsy, who stood by my side throughout this struggle.” He was born Nov. 23, 1949, at St. Mary’s Hospital in Detroit, Michigan, to Elaine Ann (Cameron) and Robert Wesley Clements. As the oldest child of his generation on the Cameron side and the second oldest on the Clements side, he had the great good fortune to have all his grandparents, seven of whom he got to know. His family, grandparents, several aunts and uncles, and cousins resided in Ferndale, Michigan. In violation of child labor laws, his father contracted him and his siblings to do automotive piecework. The family had a trip planned for California. Robert and his siblings loved to swim, but motels with pools cost more and they had to make up the difference. “My father was teaching us the value of earning the things you want in life,” said Robert. “After school, we went to the basement and put together switches for car doors. It involved pins, screws, and grease and was easy enough for even my five-year-old sister to do.” He survived 12 years of Catholic school at St. James. “Several of my teachers had taught my parents and aunts and uncles,” said Robert. “Mrs. Parks, who let me read in class to a classmate who couldn’t, and Sister Paul, who encouraged me to pursue my passion for science and math, were two of my favorites.” While growing up, Robert spent a summer in a Boy Scout honor guard on Mackinac Island. One week, then-Governor George Romney, came to the island. He stopped to shake hands with each of them. “I was the oldest Scout there and he asked me if I could report to the Governor’s Mansion the next day,” said Robert. “When I showed up, he had me caddy for him on the island’s golf course. Years later, when I was working as a waiter at a conference center, he entered an elevator I was in. He looked at me and said, ‘You’re Robert Clements. Thank you again for caddying for me.’ Even from an early age, I was someone people found hard to forget.” On his senior trip to Washington, D.C., while visiting Arlington National Cemetery, Secret Service agents approached his class. They had a dignitary who wanted to meet some typical high school students, and he was among the students who met with the Shah of Iran. After getting his associate’s degree at Oakland Community College, where he worked on the student newspaper, “our faculty advisor went to school with the White House assistant press secretary and secured four White House press credentials for our team, the first college to hold that distinction,” said Robert. Highlights of that trip to Washington included getting tear-gassed for the first time and, later that day, being ushered into a small room to partake in a photo-op between President Richard Nixon and the President of Mexico. In 1974, Robert moved to Vermont to start a new phase of his life. He lived in a teepee for two years, until a hurricane destroyed it. He founded Zephyr Designs, an art supply store and framery on Main Street during that period, which continues in the Clements family to this day. Several of Robert’s volunteer roles include more than 30 years on the Brattleboro Tree Advisory Board, 40 years in the Mineralogical Society of Brattleboro and, with his wife Betsy, two terms as Representative Town Meeting members. “A man who lives fully is prepared to die at any time,” said Robert, quoting Mark Twain. Memorial information: A celebration of life will be held at a later date. Donations to the Brattleboro Tree Advisory Board, in care of Brattleboro Public Works, 211 Fairground Rd., Brattleboro, VT 05301; or Brooks Memorial Library, 224 Main St., Brattleboro, VT 05301. To offer condolences, visit atamaniuk.com.
• Clifton Forsythe “Clif” Everett, 69, of Glen Burnie, Maryland. Died in his home, surrounded by family, May 30, 2026, after a short battle with an extremely rare and highly aggressive form of cancer. Clif was born in 1957 in Auburn, New York, one of three children of the late Robert Everett and June Forsythe Wood. Following the separation of his parents, he lived with his mother and two sisters in upstate New York; Wayne, Pennsylvania; Mountain Lakes, New Jersey; and the metropolitan D.C. area, graduating from Bethesda/Chevy Chase High School. After high school, Clif and his younger sister, Nancy, spent several years involved with Kriya Yoga, after which Clif moved to Venezuela and spent a few years farming. In Venezuela, he met his first wife, Teresa, who moved back to the U.S. with him, and they raised a family together. Being fluent in Spanish, Clif spent several years working for Barnum & Bailey Circus, assisting with show logistics in South America. In 2002, Clif became a partner in an indoor soccer arena in Jessup, Maryland, Soccer Dome and, a year later, bought out his partners. Clif ran Soccer Dome for two decades, expanding into a second facility in Harmans, Maryland, and gradually turned the company over to his two sons. Ever the brave entrepreneur, Clif and his then-wife opened a Thai restaurant, Bangkok Kitchen, in Odenton, Maryland, which operated successfully for five years, including during the Covid pandemic. Clif grew up sailing with his father and, in his fifties, carried out a lifelong dream of owning a boat and sailing around the world. In his last 10 years, Clif moved back-and-forth between Maryland and Thailand, often living on his 50-foot catamaran, Lella, which he had modified to rely on solar-electric power when not under sail. At the time of his cancer diagnosis, Clif and his partner, Melody Hidalgo, were in Bali about to sail back to Thailand, where they were planning to build a house together. Clif was a lifelong adventurer who was never afraid to take on new challenges (and risks). He was also a devoted father to his three children, who fondly remember camping trips, summers in Venezuela, yearly visits to New England to be with extended family, and lively family reunions. He launched all three children into the work world, infusing confidence in them to take on the world. Clif leaves his partner Melody; sons Kevin and Clif “CJ” Everett in Maryland; daughter June Maria Kuhlman (Kyle) of St. Petersburg, Florida; sister Jerelyn Wilson (Alex) in Dummerston; brother-in-law Stephen Hight in Pittsburg, Kansas; half-sisters Stephanie, Lilly, and Renata, and their families; grandsons Deacon and Myles Kuhlman; and a nephew and two nieces. Clif’s younger sister, Nancy, died in a hiking accident in 2000. Memorial information: A celebration of Clif’s life will be held at a later date to be announced. Clif’s family can be reached through Soccer Dome ([email protected]).
• Chaplain Dr. Edward “Ed” Flower, 89, died June 22, 2026. He was preceded in death by his wife, Judith Flower, who died Jan. 20, 2026. They shared many years of marriage and family life together. Ed is survived by his two sons, four grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren. Born Nov. 21, 1936, Ed served as a Chaplain in the Army for 20 years, retiring with the rank of lieutenant colonel. His military career included service during the Vietnam War, where he was awarded several military decorations. His assignments took him and his family throughout the U.S. and Europe, where he ministered to soldiers and their families. After retiring from the Army, Ed continued his education, earning a Doctor of Ministry degree from Andover-Newton Theological School. He later established a pastoral counseling center in Brattleboro, where he provided counseling and pastoral care to individuals, couples, and families for many years. Throughout his life, Ed’s work reflected his commitment to ministry, service, and helping others. Whether serving members of the military or counseling those facing personal challenges, he approached his work with compassion, patience, and a strong sense of purpose. Ed will be remembered by his family, friends, former colleagues, and the many people whose lives he touched through his ministry and counseling. His family is grateful for the example he set through a lifetime of faith, service, and dedication to others. Memorial information: A memorial service celebrating Ed’s life will be announced by the family. To offer condolences, visit atamaniuk.com.
• Gordon Clark Fuller, 81, of Spofford, New Hampshire. Died June 17, 2026, surrounded by his loving family, at the Veterans Affairs Medical Center in White River Junction, after a brief but courageous battle with cancer. Born March 5, 1945, in Keene, New Hampshire, Gordon was the son of George and Eleanor (Clark) Fuller. The youngest of four children, he was known throughout his youth for his adventurous spirit, quick wit, and occasional mischief. A 1963 graduate of Keene High School, Gordon answered the call to serve his country shortly after graduation. He proudly served three years in the Army during the Vietnam War as part of Company C, 447th Signal Battalion, Army Strategic Communications Command. He received the Army Commendation Medal for outstanding performance of duty while serving as Technical Control Trick Chief at the Nha Trang DCS Station in Vietnam. Following his honorable discharge, Gordon began a long and dedicated career with New England Telephone, working first in installation and later in special services. After retiring, he remained active, working as a greenskeeper at Pine Grove Springs CC and, later, with Thomas Blasting. Gordon was a lifelong resident of Spofford and spent most of his life in the home where he was raised. Spofford Lake held a special place in his heart and provided countless cherished memories for him and his family. In his younger years, he enjoyed racing cars and snowmobiles across the frozen lake. Later, he created lasting memories with his children, nephews, and grandchildren during summers spent water skiing, tubing, fishing, and enjoying time on the water. In recent years, he could often be found riding his bicycle around the lake each morning. In his 40s, Gordon discovered a passion for golf that would remain with him for the rest of his life. He became a familiar face at Pine Grove Springs and many other local golf courses, where he enjoyed not only the game but also the friendships it brought. Later in life, Gordon found love and companionship with Jeanne (Peterson) Fuller. Together, they shared 20 wonderful years of marriage and embraced the joys of retirement. They celebrated as their children married and their family grew with the arrival of beloved grandchildren. Winter months were often spent in Venice, Florida, where they enjoyed boating, golfing, dancing, playing cards, and building lasting friendships within their community. They also shared a love of classic automobiles and could often be found taking rides in their cherished 1932 Model A or 1972 Corvette. Of all the roles Gordon held throughout his life, none brought him greater pride than being “Grandpa G.” He treasured every opportunity to spend time with his grandchildren and became affectionately known as the grandpa who always had mints in his pocket at sporting events. He taught his grandsons how to golf, cheered from countless sidelines, and faithfully followed every game and competition he could. When he was unable to attend in person, he found ways to watch online, remaining one of their biggest and most devoted supporters. Gordon is survived by his beloved wife of 20 years; his brother, Donald Fuller of Spofford; his children, David Fuller and Margaret Parent of Concord, New Hampshire, and Kimberly and Joseph Robinson of Dummerston. He is also survived by Jeanne’s children, Heather and Mark Pelow of Langdon, New Hampshire, and Clay and Kate Viarengo of Ware, New Hampshire. He will be fondly remembered by his grandchildren, Matthew, Mandy, Colby, Gavin, Cooper, Avery, Samantha, and Carter, as well as many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends whose lives he touched through his kindness, humor, and unwavering support. In addition to his parents, Gordon was predeceased by his brother, Howard Fuller, and his sister, Evelyn Shelley. Memorial information: In keeping with Gordon’s wishes, there will be no formal funeral or memorial service. Reflecting his lifelong love of animals, donations may be made to any local animal shelter. To offer condolences, visit atamaniuk.com.
• David C. “Dave” Lane, 79, of Dummerston. Died peacefully, surrounded by family, June 13, 2026. He was the son of Orville and Marion Lane. Dave was born on March 23, 1947, and lived his life much like the way he described a perfect day in his journal: “Watching the trees blow in the wind” and “Cloudy day, but peaceful.” Those simple observations reflect a man who found joy in life’s everyday moments and never lost his appreciation for the world around him. Dave was a man who loved his family, sports, hunting, ski jumping, the outdoors, and his community. Following his graduation from Brattleboro Union High School, Dave enlisted in the Army, serving as a field radio repair mechanic in Germany. He was honorably discharged with the rank of sergeant. He later worked as an electrician for several companies in the Brattleboro and Bennington areas. Dave’s greatest gift was his ability to connect with people. Through his quick wit, playful sense of humor, kindness, and encouragement, he inspired others to be their best. A coach, mentor, volunteer, umpire, referee, substitute teacher, and community leader, his impact reached far beyond the softball field. He proudly served as Exalted Ruler of the Elks Club and volunteered for many years as Head Marker at the Harris Hill Ski Jump. He lived by a simple philosophy: “Make every day a cheerful one.” He is survived by his sons, Scott Lane (Jolene) and Jesse Lane (Ali); daughters, Angela, Kaela, and Shelby Davis-Lane (Zach); grandchildren Madisun, Kendall, Ben, Cameron, Briele, Bryan, Marian, and Darrel; brother John Lane (Judy), and lifelong friend Brenda Davis. He was preceded in death by his parents, daughter Heidi, and brothers Franny and Bill. Whether this is his “last jump,” as he would say, or simply another chapter in a life filled with adventure, one thing is certain: the stories, songs, laughter, friendships, and love he has shared will continue to live on in the people whose lives he touched. Memorial information: A gathering to celebrate Dave’s life will be held at the Brattleboro Elks Club Aug. 1, from 1 to 4 p.m. Donations to the Harris Hill Ski Jump, the Brattleboro Area Softball Leagues, or Silver Towers Camp in Ripton, three organizations that reflect his lifelong commitment to community, sports, and helping others. To send condolences, visit csnh.com.
• Ruth “Ruthie” Morse, 95, died at home after a brief illness May 17, 2026. Ruthie was born in Brattleboro April 27, 1931, the youngest of eight children of John and Mary Reynolds. Ruthie graduated from St. Michael’s School in 1948. She worked at Margolin & Co. in Brattleboro before moving to Orlando. Ruthie was predeceased by her first husband, Harold Payne; second husband, John Morse; daughter Nancy Bustillos, grandson Justin Bustillos, and seven brothers and sisters. Ruthie is survived by a son, Michael Payne of Lawrence, Massachusetts; grandchildren Rebecca Bustillos, Amanda Cooke, and Bruce Thomas; and several great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews. Ruthie also leaves behind a few special friends in Orlando who became family. Memorial information: Family and friends are invited to attend a graveside ceremony at St. Michael’s Cemetery in Brattleboro Saturday, Sept. 5, at 11 a.m., with a reception to follow.
• Hans Josef Roth, 90, died two days before his 91st birthday June 16, 2026. A brilliant, kind and gentle soul, he was born in Dusseldorf, Germany, June 18, 1935. Hans had a tumultuous childhood living in pre- and post-war Germany. His father died due to a train accident when he was only three weeks old, leaving his mother Maria to raise him and his two older sisters. He suffered from polio and, in the aftermath of World War II, Hans was separated from his mother twice, during which he had no knowledge of her whereabouts. The first time, she was missing for three weeks. But for the kindness of a high ranking Soviet officer, who Maria had covertly fed during his captivity, she would have been sent to Siberia. They were reunited and began an arduous 230-mile trek to the U.S. Occupation Zone. This became a life-defining moment for Hans and he often recalled the days of walking, climbing trees by day to hide from capture, and the dangerous river crossings. Maria was again separated from Hans for nearly two years, when she went back to search for Hans’ sister Helga. She and Helga were captured by the Soviets and sent to a prison camp. In 1953, he emigrated to the United States at 18 years old was soon after drafted into the Army to serve in Korea. Despite not yet being a citizen, Hans served proudly during the closing months of the Korean War, and received an honorable discharge. Having trained as an apprentice machinist in Germany, he took a job as a tradesman. He worked diligently receiving his GED, as well as B.S. and M.S. degrees from Long Island University, and a Masters in Business from University of Pittsburgh. He ultimately rose to be the Vice President the Metco Division of Perkin-Elmer, a Fortune 500 company. Hans married Marianne Suppa in 1957, and they had a daughter, Jody Cheryl. He later married the love of his life, Rosemarri. He became the father of her two children, Heidi and Stacey. Together Hans and Rosemarri traveled the world for business and pleasure visiting 62 countries and 47 U.S. states. Exploring Ankor Wat in Cambodia, swimming under the waterfalls at Iguazu Falls in Brazil, and even dancing with Imelda Marcos (wife of the then-President of the Philippines). He had a rich and full life. In 1984, he and Rosemarri chose to relocate to Vermont, as Hans was an accomplished skier. He spent many hours on the slopes with his daughter Stacey, as well as enjoying the pastoral setting and the opportunity to commune with nature. Hans is survived by his beloved Rosemarri, his daughters Stacey, Heidi and Jody, his adopted son Tony, and grandchildren Michael, Kyle, James, Paula, Jonathon, Katheryn, Amelia, Alex and Andrew. He was grandfather-in-law to Amanda Piccione, who blessed him with his first great-grandchild Atlas Wolfgang. He was also a surrogate father to Heidi and Danny Martinez, Robert and Mable Pappalardo, and Lisa Ngo. He is also survived by his niece Alice Routheut, nephews Perry Oswald, Roy Seaman, and Perry Seaman. He will be deeply missed by lifelong friends Edelgard Schmittz, and Helen Burkhart. He was predeceased by his parents, sisters Mathilda Seaman and Helga Oswald, and his dear friend Rosario Sal Ventimiglia, who died in December. Memorial information: There will be a celebration of his life at the Rockingham Meeting House Aug 8, from 11 a.m. to noon. Donations to either the Rockingham Meeting House, Attn: Walter Wallace, P.O. Box 370, Bellows Falls, VT 05101, or Bayada Foundation, 1222 Putney Rd., Brattleboro, VT 05301.
• Roger Rueckert of Newfane died at the age of 75. Born in 1950 in Germany, and formerly residing in Westport, Connecticut, Roger lived in Vermont for nearly 60 years. He was predeceased by his parents, Heinz and Anita, and is survived by his two brothers, Robert and Michael. Those who had the privilege of knowing Roger knew he had a heart of gold and a fiercely independent spirit. A man of a thousand stories, Roger took his right to pursue happiness very seriously. He was a passionate fisherman, a loyal friend, the best uncle, and a wonderful human. He will be dearly missed and lovingly remembered. Memorial information: A celebration of Roger’s exceptional life will be held at a later date.
• Maria C. Shaw, 88, of Hinsdale, New Hampshire. Died at her home June 25, 2026, following a period of declining health. She was born on Sept. 11, 1937, in Athol, Massachusetts, the daughter of Antonio and Jennie (Scalia) DeSantis. She was raised and educated in Athol, graduating from Athol High School with the Class of 1955. She married Richard “Dick” Shaw Sr. Sept. 30, 1961,at Our Lady Immaculate Catholic Church in Athol. They were happily married for more than 50 years prior to his death in 2012. Dick and Maria moved to Hinsdale in 1965, where they raised their two children and were deeply involved in the community. Maria was employed by the town of Hinsdale serving as secretary to the Board of Selectmen and Assistant Tax Collector. She retired following more than 40 years of faithful and dedicated service to the town. In 1978, she was elected as Hinsdale’s Supervisor of the Checklist, a position she held for 48 years, often running unopposed for re-election as no one dared to run against Maria. A devout Catholic, Maria was a communicant of St. Joseph’s Catholic Church (Mary Queen of Peace Parish) where she was a longtime active member of Catholic Daughters and served as a CCD teacher when her children were young as well as a eucharistic minister for the parish. Prior to his passing, Dick and Maria loved visits to Foxwoods with family and friends. Maria also enjoyed television game shows, reading romance novels, and time shared with family and friends, especially her grandchildren. Survivors include two sons, Richard Shaw Jr. and wife, Patricia, of Litchfield, New Hampshire, and Anthony Shaw and wife, Kristin, of Goffstown, New Hampshire; grandchildren, Travis, Kyle, and Connor; and great-grandson, Bentley. She was predeceased by a grandson, Matthew, July 7, 2025. Additionally, she leaves several cousins and many friends from Hinsdale and Athol. Memorial information: A funeral Mass was held July 2 at St. Joseph’s Church in Hinsdale, followed by committal rites and burial in Gethsemane Cemetery in Athol. Donations to a charity of one’s choice. To offer condolences, visit atamaniuk.com.
• Sonya Ledith (Smart) Waite, 90, of Guilford. Died June 25, 2026, in the comfort of home, surrounded by her children and beloved dogs. Sonya was born at home in Hinsdale, New Hampshire, Nov. 22, 1935, the youngest of seven to Frederick Knight Smart and Lillian (Horton) Smart. She attended schools in Winchester, New Hampshire, and Brattleboro, later earning her teaching degree from Castleton State College while working full-time and raising five children. Sonya built her life grounded in faith and family. She loved her church families. She devoted many hours teaching in the Windham Southeast elementary schools in Brattleboro and later in multiple Christian Schools in Maine, New Hampshire, and Massachusetts. Her students always spoke of how much they loved having her as their teacher and friend, and how much they would miss her. For a time, Sonya owned and operated Duke’s Deli in Brattleboro, alongside her husband Keith. They served many happy local patrons. When Keith’s employment with Entergy took them to New Hampshire, Sonya became a licensed realtor and then eventually returned to teaching at several Christian schools. Upon the death of her husband of 66 years, she returned to Vermont to live at the home of her daughter in Guilford in 2018. Sonya loved sunrises at the ocean, sunsets in Vermont, and curling up with a good book alongside her puppies. Her greatest love was the smiling faces of her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Sonya was a talented artist, loved music and playing the piano. She devoted countless hours baking and decorating beautiful cakes for everyone’s special occasion. She also loved to quilt, knit, sew, and make porcelain dolls. Sonya was predeceased by her loving husband of 66 years, Keith E. Waite Sr.; to her sadness, her youngest son, Keith E. Waite Jr.; a grandson, Thomas Muir; her son-in-law, Edward “David” Rowe; her brothers, Francis, Roland, Thomas, and Lincoln; and sister, Laura Cretelle. Also, her parents, and in-laws Millard and Mabel (Young) Waite Sr. Sonya is survived by her children: Kathleen Waite, Patricia O’Brian Raitt, Brian (Judy) Waite, and Robin Rowe; eight grandchildren, 13 great-grandchildren, her sister, Helen (Paul) Boudreau, and many nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews; many friends and strays of both the human and most any kind, whom she welcomed with open arms of love and kindness. Memorial information: A celebration of life will be held Saturday, July 18, at 11 a.m., at West Brattleboro Baptist Church, 979 Western Ave., immediately followed by a gathering with food and fellowship at her home at 2023 Tater Lane, Guilford. Burial will take place at a later date in Meetinghouse Hill Cemetery. If you wish to honor Sonya, be kind, be sweet, spend time with family, laugh a while, and hug one another. Donations to West Brattleboro Baptist Church, 979 Western Ave., Brattleboro, VT 05301; or the Windham County Humane Society, P.O. Box 397, Brattleboro, VT 05302. To offer condolences, visit atamaniuk.com.
Services
• A celebration of life for David Frederick “Dave” Bell will be held Saturday, July 18, from 2 to 6 p.m., at 127 Sunset Lake Rd., Brattleboro. Words of remembrance will begin at 2:30 p.m. Attendees are asked to carpool as parking will be limited. Dave, 71, died peacefully on June 2, 2026. To view his full obituary, visit atamaniuk.com.
This Milestones item was submitted to The Commons.