Club Member Memorial Wall
Club Member Memorial Wall
We Thank Them for Their Service and they will be missed!
Dean Hanson 
(1928-2024)
Passed on: May 6, 2024Dean Hanson
Dean F. Hanson, age 95, of Bennington, Vermont, passed away on May 6, 2024. He was born in Barton, VT in 1928. Inspired by a desire to serve he received his funeral directorship from New England Mortuary School, Boston, Mass in 1951. He owned Hanson -Walbridge Funeral Homes for 29 years. In his spare time, he loved golf, flying, and serving the community through his local church and Rotary where he served as club President from 1960-1961.
He was known for being innovative and a forward thinker. Dean sat on many boards including but not limited to Putnam School of Nursing, the Bennington hospital board of directors, Blue Cross Blue Shield, YMCA, M&T Bank, and was also active with Habitat for Humanity.
He was a pioneer in establishing the first rescue squad in Bennington, developing the deer park with Rotary that is still enjoyed today, beautifying downtown main street with the tree planting project, and promoting growth of the Bennington airport.
Most of all, many will remember his leadership and always serving others. Dean is survived by his children, Diane Hanson Barnes of Fresno, CA, Bonnie Hanson Dwyer (Jon) of San Ramon, CA, Jeff Hanson (Bonnie) of Cape Coral, FL, and Beth Hanson Lathrop (David) of Silsbee, TX. He is also survived by his wife of 41 years Janet Efinger Hanson and her children Mimi Hay, Laine Conklin, Mark Efinger, Evelyn Efinger and Tom Efinger, numerous grandchildren, and great grandchildren.
A Celebration of Life will take place at Second Congregational Church, Bennington on Saturday, May 25 at 11 am. Immediately following the service there will be a reception held in the church hall and private interment at Shaftsbury Center Cemetery. In Dean's memory, donations can be made to the Bennington Rotary Scholarship Fund, Bennington Rotary Club, PO Box 24, Bennington, VT 05201 or online through their website at https://benningtontotary.org
Dean Hanson
(1928-2024)Passed on: May 6, 2024Dean Hanson
Dean F. Hanson, age 95, of Bennington, Vermont, passed away on May 6, 2024. He was born in Barton, VT in 1928. Inspired by a desire to serve he received his funeral directorship from New England Mortuary School, Boston, Mass in 1951. He owned Hanson -Walbridge Funeral Homes for 29 years. In his spare time, he loved golf, flying, and serving the community through his local church and Rotary where he served as club President from 1960-1961.
He was known for being innovative and a forward thinker. Dean sat on many boards including but not limited to Putnam School of Nursing, the Bennington hospital board of directors, Blue Cross Blue Shield, YMCA, M&T Bank, and was also active with Habitat for Humanity.
He was a pioneer in establishing the first rescue squad in Bennington, developing the deer park with Rotary that is still enjoyed today, beautifying downtown main street with the tree planting project, and promoting growth of the Bennington airport.
Most of all, many will remember his leadership and always serving others. Dean is survived by his children, Diane Hanson Barnes of Fresno, CA, Bonnie Hanson Dwyer (Jon) of San Ramon, CA, Jeff Hanson (Bonnie) of Cape Coral, FL, and Beth Hanson Lathrop (David) of Silsbee, TX. He is also survived by his wife of 41 years Janet Efinger Hanson and her children Mimi Hay, Laine Conklin, Mark Efinger, Evelyn Efinger and Tom Efinger, numerous grandchildren, and great grandchildren.
A Celebration of Life will take place at Second Congregational Church, Bennington on Saturday, May 25 at 11 am. Immediately following the service there will be a reception held in the church hall and private interment at Shaftsbury Center Cemetery. In Dean's memory, donations can be made to the Bennington Rotary Scholarship Fund, Bennington Rotary Club, PO Box 24, Bennington, VT 05201 or online through their website at https://benningtontotary.org
Gregory Burke (1946-2023)
Passed on: July 26, 2023Gregory Burke
Gregory "Rex" Burke of Shaftsbury, Vermont, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and brother, peacefully passed away on July 26th surrounded by his loving family. He was born in January 1946, in Springfield, Massachusetts to the late Ignatius and Antoinette (Piela) Burke.
Rex was a man of great character, known for his unwavering dedication to his family. He is survived by his devoted wife of 54 years, Deanna Burke, sharing a lifetime of love and joy. Rex will forever be remembered as a proud father to his daughter, Tawnya Trotta, her husband Nick, and his son, Bryan Burke, and his wife Sara. He was an exemplary role model, always providing guidance, encouragement, and unwavering support to his children. His legacy of compassion and integrity will continue to guide them through life's journey.
Rex cherished his role as a grandfather to his granddaughters, Elyse, Samantha, and Cora, and his grandson, Alex. He was a presence of love, laughter, and wisdom in their lives, and his memory will forever be etched in their hearts.
He is survived by his loving brother, Gaylord Burke, and his wife Kathryn, niece Lauren and her husband Brett Buatti and nephew Michael Burke. Rex and Gaylord's special bond brought them countless moments of happiness and support throughout their lives. Rex is also survived by his sister-in-law Darlene Lyko and her lifelong partner Paul Hughes. Dolly and Paul were very close to Rex and were not only family by marriage but true friends who he confided in and shared many happy memories.
Rex was predeceased by his parents, Ignatius and Antoinette, his brother, Donald, niece Melanie, and in-laws Stanley and Jane Lyko.
Rex is an alumni of Chicopee High School class of 1964. He received a bachelor's degree from UMass Amherst and a graduate degree in urban planning from Michigan State University where he finished first in his class.
Rex was passionate about his service to Bennington County and the state of Vermont, serving as the Executive Director of the BCRC for almost 40 years. He was honored with several commendations throughout his career including the Ferdinand "Nundy" Bongartz award and served as President of Rotary International Chapter 787 in 1984. He found solace in nature, spending countless hours exploring the great outdoors. In his spare time, Rex enjoyed gardening, cooking, traveling, music, golfing with his friends and spending time with his family. He had an inquisitive mind and a knack for problem-solving, always eager to learn and grow.
Rex touched the lives of many with his warm smile, infectious positivity, and kind heart. He was always quick to lend a helping hand and never asked for anything in return. He will forever be treasured and kept alive through the lessons he shared, the love he bestowed, and the remembrances he created.
A celebration of Rex's life will be held on August 4th at Mahar Funeral Home in Bennington, Vermont, from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM followed by a funeral mass at St. John the Baptist Church at 1:30 PM.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to St. John the Baptist Church or St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, through the office of Mahar Funeral Home, 628 Main Street Bennington, Vermont 05201
Gregory Burke
(1946-2023)Passed on: July 26, 2023Gregory Burke
Gregory "Rex" Burke of Shaftsbury, Vermont, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and brother, peacefully passed away on July 26th surrounded by his loving family. He was born in January 1946, in Springfield, Massachusetts to the late Ignatius and Antoinette (Piela) Burke.
Rex was a man of great character, known for his unwavering dedication to his family. He is survived by his devoted wife of 54 years, Deanna Burke, sharing a lifetime of love and joy. Rex will forever be remembered as a proud father to his daughter, Tawnya Trotta, her husband Nick, and his son, Bryan Burke, and his wife Sara. He was an exemplary role model, always providing guidance, encouragement, and unwavering support to his children. His legacy of compassion and integrity will continue to guide them through life's journey.
Rex cherished his role as a grandfather to his granddaughters, Elyse, Samantha, and Cora, and his grandson, Alex. He was a presence of love, laughter, and wisdom in their lives, and his memory will forever be etched in their hearts.
He is survived by his loving brother, Gaylord Burke, and his wife Kathryn, niece Lauren and her husband Brett Buatti and nephew Michael Burke. Rex and Gaylord's special bond brought them countless moments of happiness and support throughout their lives. Rex is also survived by his sister-in-law Darlene Lyko and her lifelong partner Paul Hughes. Dolly and Paul were very close to Rex and were not only family by marriage but true friends who he confided in and shared many happy memories.
Rex was predeceased by his parents, Ignatius and Antoinette, his brother, Donald, niece Melanie, and in-laws Stanley and Jane Lyko.
Rex is an alumni of Chicopee High School class of 1964. He received a bachelor's degree from UMass Amherst and a graduate degree in urban planning from Michigan State University where he finished first in his class.
Rex was passionate about his service to Bennington County and the state of Vermont, serving as the Executive Director of the BCRC for almost 40 years. He was honored with several commendations throughout his career including the Ferdinand "Nundy" Bongartz award and served as President of Rotary International Chapter 787 in 1984. He found solace in nature, spending countless hours exploring the great outdoors. In his spare time, Rex enjoyed gardening, cooking, traveling, music, golfing with his friends and spending time with his family. He had an inquisitive mind and a knack for problem-solving, always eager to learn and grow.
Rex touched the lives of many with his warm smile, infectious positivity, and kind heart. He was always quick to lend a helping hand and never asked for anything in return. He will forever be treasured and kept alive through the lessons he shared, the love he bestowed, and the remembrances he created.
A celebration of Rex's life will be held on August 4th at Mahar Funeral Home in Bennington, Vermont, from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM followed by a funeral mass at St. John the Baptist Church at 1:30 PM.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to St. John the Baptist Church or St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, through the office of Mahar Funeral Home, 628 Main Street Bennington, Vermont 05201
Francis Jones (1936-2023)
Passed on: July 21, 2023Francis Jones
LTC (ret) Francis Shepard "Shep" Jones, 87, a lifelong resident of Bennington, passed away July 21, 2023 in Bennington Vermont. Shep was born in Bennington on June 1, 1936 the son of the late Franklin Peene and Margaret Shepard Jones. He attended the Bennington Graded School (K), the Pleasant Valley School, a one room school (1-5), Hoosac School (6-7), Bennington High School (8-12), and earned his Bachelor of Arts in Physics at Middlebury College. He married Margaret (Peggy) Dodd on Nov. 30, 1957 in Middlebury. He served on active duty from 1957-1977 in the US Army Ordinance Corps in various worldwide assignments. He was awarded a Purple Heart for minor injuries sustained in Vietnam. He was awarded the Legion of Merit medal in recognition of his management of the Army's tank-automotive inventory in Europe. He retired from the Army in 1977 as a Lieutenant Colonel. Returning to Bennington, he and Peggy purchased Taylor Rental, which they rebranded as EZ Way Rental and operated for 20 years before passing on the business. After retiring again, he worked part time supporting his son Frank's business designing and manufacturing specialty motors and electronics for robotics and energy conversion. Shep was a member of the Bennington Rotary Club, the Chamber of Commerce, the Vermont Retail Association, the American Rental Association, and the Bennington School Board. He sang with the Bennington County Choral Society, the Serenity Singers and the Second Congregational Church Choir. Shep enjoyed genealogy, traveling the world, especially cruises with Peggy and his daughters, was an opera buff and organized the monthly opera program at Brookdale at Fillmore Pond. Shep is survived by his children Frank Jones (Lori) of Shrewsbury, MA, Carol Sawyer (Tom) of Mesa, AZ and Sarah Lein (Don) of Orlando, FL, brother William "Bill" Jones (Chris) of Mineral, VA, sister Elizabeth (Betsy) Macomber (Don) of Richmondville, NY, 14 grandchildren and 9 great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his wife Margaret (Peggy) Dodd Jones, son George Shepard Jones, and his granddaughter Emily Anne Lein. A Service of Remembrance will be held Saturday, July 29 at 10:00 AM in the Moses Room in the main building at Brookdale at Fillmore Pond at 300 Village Lane, Bennington, VT. If friends desire, memorial gifts in Shep's memory may be made to McCullough Free Library in North Bennington, VT, c/o Hanson Walbridge & Shea Funeral Home P.O. Box 957 Bennington, VT 05201. To send the family personal condolences please visit www.sheafuneralhomes.com. The family has entrusted arrangements to the care of Hanson Walbridge & Shea Funeral Home, 213 West Main Street, Bennington, VT.
Francis Jones
(1936-2023)Passed on: July 21, 2023Francis Jones
LTC (ret) Francis Shepard "Shep" Jones, 87, a lifelong resident of Bennington, passed away July 21, 2023 in Bennington Vermont. Shep was born in Bennington on June 1, 1936 the son of the late Franklin Peene and Margaret Shepard Jones. He attended the Bennington Graded School (K), the Pleasant Valley School, a one room school (1-5), Hoosac School (6-7), Bennington High School (8-12), and earned his Bachelor of Arts in Physics at Middlebury College. He married Margaret (Peggy) Dodd on Nov. 30, 1957 in Middlebury. He served on active duty from 1957-1977 in the US Army Ordinance Corps in various worldwide assignments. He was awarded a Purple Heart for minor injuries sustained in Vietnam. He was awarded the Legion of Merit medal in recognition of his management of the Army's tank-automotive inventory in Europe. He retired from the Army in 1977 as a Lieutenant Colonel. Returning to Bennington, he and Peggy purchased Taylor Rental, which they rebranded as EZ Way Rental and operated for 20 years before passing on the business. After retiring again, he worked part time supporting his son Frank's business designing and manufacturing specialty motors and electronics for robotics and energy conversion. Shep was a member of the Bennington Rotary Club, the Chamber of Commerce, the Vermont Retail Association, the American Rental Association, and the Bennington School Board. He sang with the Bennington County Choral Society, the Serenity Singers and the Second Congregational Church Choir. Shep enjoyed genealogy, traveling the world, especially cruises with Peggy and his daughters, was an opera buff and organized the monthly opera program at Brookdale at Fillmore Pond. Shep is survived by his children Frank Jones (Lori) of Shrewsbury, MA, Carol Sawyer (Tom) of Mesa, AZ and Sarah Lein (Don) of Orlando, FL, brother William "Bill" Jones (Chris) of Mineral, VA, sister Elizabeth (Betsy) Macomber (Don) of Richmondville, NY, 14 grandchildren and 9 great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his wife Margaret (Peggy) Dodd Jones, son George Shepard Jones, and his granddaughter Emily Anne Lein. A Service of Remembrance will be held Saturday, July 29 at 10:00 AM in the Moses Room in the main building at Brookdale at Fillmore Pond at 300 Village Lane, Bennington, VT. If friends desire, memorial gifts in Shep's memory may be made to McCullough Free Library in North Bennington, VT, c/o Hanson Walbridge & Shea Funeral Home P.O. Box 957 Bennington, VT 05201. To send the family personal condolences please visit www.sheafuneralhomes.com. The family has entrusted arrangements to the care of Hanson Walbridge & Shea Funeral Home, 213 West Main Street, Bennington, VT.
Gerald Butler (1930-2023)
Passed on: April 11, 2023Gerald Butler
Gerald F. Butler, 93, a longtime resident of Bennington, VT died Tuesday, April 11, 2023 at Brookdale at Fillmore Pond in Bennington following a brief illness.
He was born in Bennington, VT April 6, 1930. He was the son of the late Frederick T. Butler and Gladys (Morse) Butler. He received his education in Bennington and was a graduate of Bennington High School. He married the former Priscilla Legacy on November 11, 1950. Mrs. Butler died on December 10, 2017.
Gerry was very passionate about his hometown and all its residents. For many years he was a partner and owner of Morse and Butler, Inc. He would often spend time with his family talking about the homes he and Morse and Butler built throughout Bennington, Williamstown, MA and Manchester, VT. In 1970 Gerry left the building business and opened Butler Real Estate on Main Street in Bennington. Gerry successfully operated Butler Realty for over 28 years until he sold the business in 1999. He always took great pride when people in town would stop and talk with him about the homes he helped them sell or purchase.
Gerry was an avid lifetime golfer with his wife Priscilla as members of the Mt. Anthony Country Club for over 40 years. He also enjoyed carpentry and photography of historic places throughout Bennington and Vermont. Many of his historic photographs were displayed for sale at the Camelot Village for many years.
He was a long-time member of the Bennington Rotary Club and former past President whose key projects were driving the erection of the shelter building at Willow Road and the bus stop shelters throughout town. Gerry was a long-time member of the Frist United Methodist Church where he served as Chairman of the Finance Committee, Church Lay Leader and Communion Steward with his wife Priscilla. More recently Gerry was a long-time member of the 2nd Congregational church where he also served on the finance committee. During his working years, he was part of the New England Builders Association and the Vermont Realtors Association.
Gerry was always so grateful for all the support he had after his wife of 67 years, Priscilla passed away. Long-time friends, coffee partners and new friends always made him feel he was still part of the town he loved. Gerry's ability to change with the times and embrace technology kept him close to his entire family who all lived a long distance from Bennington. He was an avid Communicator with his children, grandchildren and many of his friends through texting and face timing. He always thought the closeness of his family was his greatest accomplishment.
Survivors include two sons and their families, Scott Butler and his wife Jan of Oakland, CA; their sons Brian and his significant other Lexi and Casey and his wife Kristen, Mark Butler and his wife Millie of Charleston, S.C. and their sons, Dan and his wife Belicca and Colby and his wife Shannon.
Gerald Butler
(1930-2023)Passed on: April 11, 2023Gerald Butler
Gerald F. Butler, 93, a longtime resident of Bennington, VT died Tuesday, April 11, 2023 at Brookdale at Fillmore Pond in Bennington following a brief illness.
He was born in Bennington, VT April 6, 1930. He was the son of the late Frederick T. Butler and Gladys (Morse) Butler. He received his education in Bennington and was a graduate of Bennington High School. He married the former Priscilla Legacy on November 11, 1950. Mrs. Butler died on December 10, 2017.
Gerry was very passionate about his hometown and all its residents. For many years he was a partner and owner of Morse and Butler, Inc. He would often spend time with his family talking about the homes he and Morse and Butler built throughout Bennington, Williamstown, MA and Manchester, VT. In 1970 Gerry left the building business and opened Butler Real Estate on Main Street in Bennington. Gerry successfully operated Butler Realty for over 28 years until he sold the business in 1999. He always took great pride when people in town would stop and talk with him about the homes he helped them sell or purchase.
Gerry was an avid lifetime golfer with his wife Priscilla as members of the Mt. Anthony Country Club for over 40 years. He also enjoyed carpentry and photography of historic places throughout Bennington and Vermont. Many of his historic photographs were displayed for sale at the Camelot Village for many years.
He was a long-time member of the Bennington Rotary Club and former past President whose key projects were driving the erection of the shelter building at Willow Road and the bus stop shelters throughout town. Gerry was a long-time member of the Frist United Methodist Church where he served as Chairman of the Finance Committee, Church Lay Leader and Communion Steward with his wife Priscilla. More recently Gerry was a long-time member of the 2nd Congregational church where he also served on the finance committee. During his working years, he was part of the New England Builders Association and the Vermont Realtors Association.
Gerry was always so grateful for all the support he had after his wife of 67 years, Priscilla passed away. Long-time friends, coffee partners and new friends always made him feel he was still part of the town he loved. Gerry's ability to change with the times and embrace technology kept him close to his entire family who all lived a long distance from Bennington. He was an avid Communicator with his children, grandchildren and many of his friends through texting and face timing. He always thought the closeness of his family was his greatest accomplishment.
Survivors include two sons and their families, Scott Butler and his wife Jan of Oakland, CA; their sons Brian and his significant other Lexi and Casey and his wife Kristen, Mark Butler and his wife Millie of Charleston, S.C. and their sons, Dan and his wife Belicca and Colby and his wife Shannon.
Ted Bird (1940-2023)
Passed on: February 22, 2023Ted Bird
Theodore (Ted) Waters Bird of Arlington, VT passed away peacefully in his home on Wednesday, February 22, 2023 following a lengthy battle with several difficult health issues. He was 82 years old.
Born on April 16, 1940, Ted grew up in Arlington, Manchester and Bennington and attended local schools. At heart, Ted was an entrepreneur and is probably most well-known for the retail store that he owned and operated during the 60's and 70's in downtown Bennington, "Bird's". Bird's was the local music and audio/video store for many years. Teens and adults alike spent hours at Bird's going through the latest releases, including albums and 45's, and everyone brought their film to Bird's to be developed into slides and pictures. In addition to music and camera accessories, Bird's sold cameras, stereos, televisions, speakers, tape recorders, receivers, and amps. Once located at 412 Main Street, Bird's relocated to the Drysdale Building in the late 70's and added an equipment repair department and an audio sound room for potential customers to experiment with equipment before purchasing and bringing it home. Bird's was the first store in town to carry the Sony BetaMax video system. Ted's favorite ad from the Bennington Banner was printed when the first BetaMax became available at the store- "No baloney, Bird's has Sony". He chuckled at that for years.
After going out of business in 1979, Ted relocated to Maryland where he opened a successful lunch kiosk in a mall; a kiosk that offered a wide variety of hot dogs and sausages with an equally wide variety of toppings. Ted sold the business, Ted's Dog House, and returned to New York and New England, where his eventual goal would be to return to Bennington. Ted's love of the place where he grew up never diminished. Vermont always was and always would be his home. When he returned to Vermont he obtained his commercial real estate license and worked at Hoisington Realty in the Commercial Real Estate Division until he retired a few years ago.
Ted leaves behind a brother, Bruce Bird; a daughter Lisa Bird Higgins; a son, Seth (Tammy ) Bird; and another daughter, Julie Bird (Gregory) Hunter. He's also survived by grandchildren, Zach (Alicia Bersnon)Higgins, Kayla Bird (Jordan) Courtain, Kristin Bird (Pratik) Patel, Riley and Jenna, and great-grandchildren Owen and Greyson Courtain and Aarna Patel. He was predeceased by his parents Joseph Ward Bird, Mary Waters (Bird) Nash, and a brother Richard Bird.
Ted loved books, music, traveling, trivia, dining out, history, movies, politics, plays, and was involved for many, many years in the local Rotary club. He was an active member of the Second Congregationalist Church and choir. He was a former spelunker, motorcycle-rider, and photographer. But what meant the most to Ted was his group of treasured and long-time friends and spending time with them whenever possible. He loved his friends and the Town of Bennington. No matter what, Ted was eternally optimistic about the great potential and the possibility of a bright future for Bennington, Vermont, his home.
Services for Ted will be held privately at a later date when all family members can be assembled. If you'd like to raise a glass in memory of Ted, he'd be absolutely delighted.
Should friends desire, memorial contributions in Ted's honor may be made to either the Bennington Rotary Club through the office of the Mahar and Son Funeral Home 628 Main St. Bennington, VT 05201
Ted Bird
(1940-2023)Passed on: February 22, 2023Ted Bird
Theodore (Ted) Waters Bird of Arlington, VT passed away peacefully in his home on Wednesday, February 22, 2023 following a lengthy battle with several difficult health issues. He was 82 years old.
Born on April 16, 1940, Ted grew up in Arlington, Manchester and Bennington and attended local schools. At heart, Ted was an entrepreneur and is probably most well-known for the retail store that he owned and operated during the 60's and 70's in downtown Bennington, "Bird's". Bird's was the local music and audio/video store for many years. Teens and adults alike spent hours at Bird's going through the latest releases, including albums and 45's, and everyone brought their film to Bird's to be developed into slides and pictures. In addition to music and camera accessories, Bird's sold cameras, stereos, televisions, speakers, tape recorders, receivers, and amps. Once located at 412 Main Street, Bird's relocated to the Drysdale Building in the late 70's and added an equipment repair department and an audio sound room for potential customers to experiment with equipment before purchasing and bringing it home. Bird's was the first store in town to carry the Sony BetaMax video system. Ted's favorite ad from the Bennington Banner was printed when the first BetaMax became available at the store- "No baloney, Bird's has Sony". He chuckled at that for years.
After going out of business in 1979, Ted relocated to Maryland where he opened a successful lunch kiosk in a mall; a kiosk that offered a wide variety of hot dogs and sausages with an equally wide variety of toppings. Ted sold the business, Ted's Dog House, and returned to New York and New England, where his eventual goal would be to return to Bennington. Ted's love of the place where he grew up never diminished. Vermont always was and always would be his home. When he returned to Vermont he obtained his commercial real estate license and worked at Hoisington Realty in the Commercial Real Estate Division until he retired a few years ago.
Ted leaves behind a brother, Bruce Bird; a daughter Lisa Bird Higgins; a son, Seth (Tammy ) Bird; and another daughter, Julie Bird (Gregory) Hunter. He's also survived by grandchildren, Zach (Alicia Bersnon)Higgins, Kayla Bird (Jordan) Courtain, Kristin Bird (Pratik) Patel, Riley and Jenna, and great-grandchildren Owen and Greyson Courtain and Aarna Patel. He was predeceased by his parents Joseph Ward Bird, Mary Waters (Bird) Nash, and a brother Richard Bird.
Ted loved books, music, traveling, trivia, dining out, history, movies, politics, plays, and was involved for many, many years in the local Rotary club. He was an active member of the Second Congregationalist Church and choir. He was a former spelunker, motorcycle-rider, and photographer. But what meant the most to Ted was his group of treasured and long-time friends and spending time with them whenever possible. He loved his friends and the Town of Bennington. No matter what, Ted was eternally optimistic about the great potential and the possibility of a bright future for Bennington, Vermont, his home.
Services for Ted will be held privately at a later date when all family members can be assembled. If you'd like to raise a glass in memory of Ted, he'd be absolutely delighted.
Should friends desire, memorial contributions in Ted's honor may be made to either the Bennington Rotary Club through the office of the Mahar and Son Funeral Home 628 Main St. Bennington, VT 05201
Barbara Hoar
(1932-2022)
Passed on: November 13, 2022Barbara Hoar
Barbara Adams Hoar of Bennington, Vermont passed away in her sleep on November 13, 2022, in Burlington, Vermont.
Barbara was born in Franklin, NH on October 29, 1932, and was the firstborn child of William and Florence Adams. She was brought up as a farm girl in Shrewsbury, Vermont along with her two younger brothers, Tony and Dick. They attended a one room schoolhouse and she always valued and appreciated those experiences. Barbara was a graduate of Rutland High School and Oberlin College, and as an extension of musical appreciation and participation in music, thanks to her mother, she played string bass in the Oberlin Symphony Orchestra. While there Barbara and the OSO were invited to play at Carnegie Hall. Her love of music lived on as she played in Mount Anthony Union High School productions, sung a little too loudly in church, and led countless symphonies while driving Route 7 between Bennington and Burlington.
Barbara dedicated her life to the service and education of others through many outlets. She taught at Cornell University and Green Mountain College before settling into her long-time position as a physical education teacher at Mt. Anthony Union High School where she taught for 28 years.
Barbara's commitment to her family, her students, and her parish was palpable. She was an active and proud member of St. Peter's where she served as senior warden.
Her dedication to community outreach was an integral part of who she was. She volunteered at the BBC, the Bennington Museum, Park McCullough house, and Oldcastle Theatre. She was a member of Rotary, League of Women Voters, a Friend of the VSO in Bennington and in Springfield and countless others.
Barbara leaves behind her son Robert Hoar of Bennington, daughter Elizabeth Baker and her husband David of South Burlington and three grandchildren, Murphy Farrington, Payton Baker, and Sullivan Baker and several nieces and nephews. She is preceded in death by her husband, Peter Hoar and son William Hoar, as well as her two brothers, Anthony Adams and Richard Adams all of whom she was looking forward to seeing again.
Funeral services were be held on Saturday, December 3, at noon at St. Peter's Episcopal Church in Bennington with a reception at the Mount Anthony Country Club.
Should you wish to, donations can be made to the Bennington Food Shelf at 332 Orchard Road, Bennington, Vermont.
Services were entrusted to Ready Funeral Home 261 Shelburne Road, Burlington, Vermont.
Barbara Hoar
(1932-2022)Passed on: November 13, 2022Barbara Hoar
Barbara Adams Hoar of Bennington, Vermont passed away in her sleep on November 13, 2022, in Burlington, Vermont.
Barbara was born in Franklin, NH on October 29, 1932, and was the firstborn child of William and Florence Adams. She was brought up as a farm girl in Shrewsbury, Vermont along with her two younger brothers, Tony and Dick. They attended a one room schoolhouse and she always valued and appreciated those experiences. Barbara was a graduate of Rutland High School and Oberlin College, and as an extension of musical appreciation and participation in music, thanks to her mother, she played string bass in the Oberlin Symphony Orchestra. While there Barbara and the OSO were invited to play at Carnegie Hall. Her love of music lived on as she played in Mount Anthony Union High School productions, sung a little too loudly in church, and led countless symphonies while driving Route 7 between Bennington and Burlington.
Barbara dedicated her life to the service and education of others through many outlets. She taught at Cornell University and Green Mountain College before settling into her long-time position as a physical education teacher at Mt. Anthony Union High School where she taught for 28 years.
Barbara's commitment to her family, her students, and her parish was palpable. She was an active and proud member of St. Peter's where she served as senior warden.
Her dedication to community outreach was an integral part of who she was. She volunteered at the BBC, the Bennington Museum, Park McCullough house, and Oldcastle Theatre. She was a member of Rotary, League of Women Voters, a Friend of the VSO in Bennington and in Springfield and countless others.
Barbara leaves behind her son Robert Hoar of Bennington, daughter Elizabeth Baker and her husband David of South Burlington and three grandchildren, Murphy Farrington, Payton Baker, and Sullivan Baker and several nieces and nephews. She is preceded in death by her husband, Peter Hoar and son William Hoar, as well as her two brothers, Anthony Adams and Richard Adams all of whom she was looking forward to seeing again.
Funeral services were be held on Saturday, December 3, at noon at St. Peter's Episcopal Church in Bennington with a reception at the Mount Anthony Country Club.
Should you wish to, donations can be made to the Bennington Food Shelf at 332 Orchard Road, Bennington, Vermont.
Services were entrusted to Ready Funeral Home 261 Shelburne Road, Burlington, Vermont.
Douglas Krause (1940-2021)
Passed on: December 7, 2021Douglas Krause
Douglas Emil Krause, 81, resident of North Bennington, VT died Tuesday, December 7, 2021, at home, surrounded by family.
He was born in Baltimore, Maryland on September 25, 1940, son of the late Alfredo and Alda (Knox) Krause.
Raised in Paoli, Pennsylvania, Doug received his secondary education at The Haverford School in Philadelphia and graduated from Lehigh University in Bethlehem, PA.
He married Marny Morris on June 13, 1970 in Stratton, VT and the two of them together raised a family and called the Bennington area home for 50 years.
As a newlywed, Doug owned and operated Dragon's Shoes in Bennington, then later managed Human Resources at Bennington College. Upon retiring from Bennington College, Doug pursued his true calling in the service of others: for the Bennington Rotary Club, as a Guardian ad Litem for the Bennington Courts, and for the Second Congregational Church.
Doug was a volunteer. He ran the Rotary Youth Exchange Program for many years, finding local homes for overseas high school students and placing Bennington students in homes abroad. He was a champion of the Rotary 4 Way Test and Student Speech Competition. Doug rang the bells for the HEAT Project during the holiday season and pitched in annually at the Antique Car Show and Garlic Fest. He was active in the Second Congregational Church as a Trustee, Treasurer, and one who was always willing to help.
Doug's Guardian Ad Litem work in the Bennington Court System was his passion of later years. He began working with children and progressed to serve older adults, who were often in nursing homes needing help with financial management and government paperwork. Sometimes he simply took them Christmas shopping, to visit a relative, or just for a drive in the fresh air.
Doug loved travel. He visited all 7 continents in the last 10 years of his life and enjoyed numerous sailing adventures in the Caribbean, often with friends and up to three generations of family. He particularly enjoyed camping on Lake George and climbing Black Mountain with kids and grandchildren; beach vacations on Nantucket watching the sun set, always with family; and kayaking with grandchildren. Despite pressing health issues, Doug travelled to Lake Tahoe in August for his eldest grand-daughter's wedding. He lived a profoundly full and energetic life. Nothing brought Doug more joy than festive gatherings of family and friends, a "wing-ding."
Ten years ago, Doug was diagnosed with cancer. He beat it back and forged ahead, yet the cancer returned in 2020. He fought tenaciously with amazing support from the good people at SVMC, Dartmouth Hitchcock, VNA/Hospice, and Transitional Nursing. Doug fulfilled his final wish by dying at home surrounded by loved ones. He lives on in the hearts and lives he touched.
Survivors include his wife, Marny Krause of North Bennington; daughters, Nancy Copeland of Lyme, New Hampshire, and Linda Hill of Hingham, Massachusetts; sons, Andrew Krause of St. Johnsbury, VT and Douglas Krause Jr. of Silverton, Colorado; grandchildren Sarah, Tyler, Myles, Ryan, Lily, and Jay; and beloved brother Bruce Alfredo Krause of Waldoboro, Maine.
Douglas Krause
(1940-2021)Passed on: December 7, 2021Douglas Krause
Douglas Emil Krause, 81, resident of North Bennington, VT died Tuesday, December 7, 2021, at home, surrounded by family.
He was born in Baltimore, Maryland on September 25, 1940, son of the late Alfredo and Alda (Knox) Krause.
Raised in Paoli, Pennsylvania, Doug received his secondary education at The Haverford School in Philadelphia and graduated from Lehigh University in Bethlehem, PA.
He married Marny Morris on June 13, 1970 in Stratton, VT and the two of them together raised a family and called the Bennington area home for 50 years.
As a newlywed, Doug owned and operated Dragon's Shoes in Bennington, then later managed Human Resources at Bennington College. Upon retiring from Bennington College, Doug pursued his true calling in the service of others: for the Bennington Rotary Club, as a Guardian ad Litem for the Bennington Courts, and for the Second Congregational Church.
Doug was a volunteer. He ran the Rotary Youth Exchange Program for many years, finding local homes for overseas high school students and placing Bennington students in homes abroad. He was a champion of the Rotary 4 Way Test and Student Speech Competition. Doug rang the bells for the HEAT Project during the holiday season and pitched in annually at the Antique Car Show and Garlic Fest. He was active in the Second Congregational Church as a Trustee, Treasurer, and one who was always willing to help.
Doug's Guardian Ad Litem work in the Bennington Court System was his passion of later years. He began working with children and progressed to serve older adults, who were often in nursing homes needing help with financial management and government paperwork. Sometimes he simply took them Christmas shopping, to visit a relative, or just for a drive in the fresh air.
Doug loved travel. He visited all 7 continents in the last 10 years of his life and enjoyed numerous sailing adventures in the Caribbean, often with friends and up to three generations of family. He particularly enjoyed camping on Lake George and climbing Black Mountain with kids and grandchildren; beach vacations on Nantucket watching the sun set, always with family; and kayaking with grandchildren. Despite pressing health issues, Doug travelled to Lake Tahoe in August for his eldest grand-daughter's wedding. He lived a profoundly full and energetic life. Nothing brought Doug more joy than festive gatherings of family and friends, a "wing-ding."
Ten years ago, Doug was diagnosed with cancer. He beat it back and forged ahead, yet the cancer returned in 2020. He fought tenaciously with amazing support from the good people at SVMC, Dartmouth Hitchcock, VNA/Hospice, and Transitional Nursing. Doug fulfilled his final wish by dying at home surrounded by loved ones. He lives on in the hearts and lives he touched.
Survivors include his wife, Marny Krause of North Bennington; daughters, Nancy Copeland of Lyme, New Hampshire, and Linda Hill of Hingham, Massachusetts; sons, Andrew Krause of St. Johnsbury, VT and Douglas Krause Jr. of Silverton, Colorado; grandchildren Sarah, Tyler, Myles, Ryan, Lily, and Jay; and beloved brother Bruce Alfredo Krause of Waldoboro, Maine.
Sally Sugarman (1929-2020)
Passed on: December 9, 2020Sally Sugarman
Sally Sugarman, a resident of Shaftsbury, passed away on Wednesday, December 9, 2020 at St. Peters Hospital in Albany, NY.
Sally Sugarman taught Childhood Studies at Bennington College for 35 years. She founded the Bennington College Early Childhood Center which continues as the Bennington Early Childhood Center. Impressed by the impact of the media on children, she also taught courses at Bennington in Media Studies. Previously she founded the Westport Cooperative Nursery School in Connecticut which is still in operation.
Sally believed strongly in community and in children and was involved in activities appropriate to them wherever she lived. She believed in organizations as instruments for doing good and creating fellowship starting in her high school in Brooklyn, New York where she was born. She often said that Brooklyn's Prospect Park and Morgan library were crucial to developing her lifelong interests.
She served as President of the Vermont Board of Education and was a member of New York's prestigious Sherlock Homes society, The Baker Street Irregulars. In Bennington she helped establish the local Sherlock Holmes Society, The Baker Street Breakfast Club, and served as its Gasogene (Chair.) She was President of the Bennington Rotary and for many years published its Newsletter that asked Rotarians the kind of questions she asked in her high school paper. She presented papers at the Popular Culture Association's Children's Literature Conferences. For many years she chaired Bennington's Hometown Fourth of July celebrations.
Ms. Sugarman loved theatre and with her husband developed the More Theatre Talk radio program on WBTN which later became a blog. It featured interviews and discussions of area theatres that encouraged people to find the excitement and pleasure in theatre she and her husband found. Previously, she served as Chair of the Board of the Oldcastle Theatre Company.
She wrote the books If Kids Could Vote: Children Democracy and the Media and How Shakespeare is Presented to Children. She edited collections of papers from the two Conferences held by the Baker Street Breakfast Club.
A woman of endless curiosity and optimism, she will be missed.
She is survived by her husband of 61 years, Robert; her sons Paul and David, and her grandchildren Kate and Marnie. Gifts in her memory may be made to the Bennington Early Childhood Center, a fitting memorial, through the office of the Mahar & Son Funeral Home, 628 Main Street, Bennington, VT 05201.
A celebration of Sally's life will be held at a time to be announced in the Spring.
Sally Sugarman
(1929-2020)Passed on: December 9, 2020Sally Sugarman
Sally Sugarman, a resident of Shaftsbury, passed away on Wednesday, December 9, 2020 at St. Peters Hospital in Albany, NY.
Sally Sugarman taught Childhood Studies at Bennington College for 35 years. She founded the Bennington College Early Childhood Center which continues as the Bennington Early Childhood Center. Impressed by the impact of the media on children, she also taught courses at Bennington in Media Studies. Previously she founded the Westport Cooperative Nursery School in Connecticut which is still in operation.
Sally believed strongly in community and in children and was involved in activities appropriate to them wherever she lived. She believed in organizations as instruments for doing good and creating fellowship starting in her high school in Brooklyn, New York where she was born. She often said that Brooklyn's Prospect Park and Morgan library were crucial to developing her lifelong interests.
She served as President of the Vermont Board of Education and was a member of New York's prestigious Sherlock Homes society, The Baker Street Irregulars. In Bennington she helped establish the local Sherlock Holmes Society, The Baker Street Breakfast Club, and served as its Gasogene (Chair.) She was President of the Bennington Rotary and for many years published its Newsletter that asked Rotarians the kind of questions she asked in her high school paper. She presented papers at the Popular Culture Association's Children's Literature Conferences. For many years she chaired Bennington's Hometown Fourth of July celebrations.
Ms. Sugarman loved theatre and with her husband developed the More Theatre Talk radio program on WBTN which later became a blog. It featured interviews and discussions of area theatres that encouraged people to find the excitement and pleasure in theatre she and her husband found. Previously, she served as Chair of the Board of the Oldcastle Theatre Company.
She wrote the books If Kids Could Vote: Children Democracy and the Media and How Shakespeare is Presented to Children. She edited collections of papers from the two Conferences held by the Baker Street Breakfast Club.
A woman of endless curiosity and optimism, she will be missed.
She is survived by her husband of 61 years, Robert; her sons Paul and David, and her grandchildren Kate and Marnie. Gifts in her memory may be made to the Bennington Early Childhood Center, a fitting memorial, through the office of the Mahar & Son Funeral Home, 628 Main Street, Bennington, VT 05201.
A celebration of Sally's life will be held at a time to be announced in the Spring.
Bhima Nitta (1965-2020)
Passed on: August 6, 2020Bhima Nitta
Bhima died on August 6, 2020, at the Albany Medical center after being in a coma for two days following cardiac arrest. He was 54 years old.
Bhima joined Rotary in 2018, When interviewed, he quoted Ghandi, saying "You have to be the change you want to see in the world." As the founder and President of Power Guru LLC he was that as he worked with his customers to help them achieve clean, sustainable power through solar energy.
Bhima was born in southeast India in the state of Andhra in Kakinada, a small town of two hundred thousand people which is considered a relatively small town in India. He was the oldest of four children, three boys and a girl.
Since he had been an outstanding student in college, he had many options when he graduated in 1987. He took the GRE and English tests and won a scholarship to RPI. When Bhima moved to Vermont in 2007, he worked for Efficiency Vermont as a product manager before founding Power Guru in 2014.
Besides being in Rotary, Bhima was on the Board of the John McCullough Library and was on the Norshaft Energy Commission. He also supported the Vermont Arts Exchange and the Second Chance Animal Shelter.
Bhima made contributions to his community in many different ways through his business which will continue and his involvement in the community.
Bhima Nitta
(1965-2020)Passed on: August 6, 2020Bhima Nitta
Bhima died on August 6, 2020, at the Albany Medical center after being in a coma for two days following cardiac arrest. He was 54 years old.
Bhima joined Rotary in 2018, When interviewed, he quoted Ghandi, saying "You have to be the change you want to see in the world." As the founder and President of Power Guru LLC he was that as he worked with his customers to help them achieve clean, sustainable power through solar energy.
Bhima was born in southeast India in the state of Andhra in Kakinada, a small town of two hundred thousand people which is considered a relatively small town in India. He was the oldest of four children, three boys and a girl.
Since he had been an outstanding student in college, he had many options when he graduated in 1987. He took the GRE and English tests and won a scholarship to RPI. When Bhima moved to Vermont in 2007, he worked for Efficiency Vermont as a product manager before founding Power Guru in 2014.
Besides being in Rotary, Bhima was on the Board of the John McCullough Library and was on the Norshaft Energy Commission. He also supported the Vermont Arts Exchange and the Second Chance Animal Shelter.
Bhima made contributions to his community in many different ways through his business which will continue and his involvement in the community.
Thomas Lyons (1958-2020)
Passed on: March 23, 2020Thomas Lyons
Tom died on March 23 following complications from pancreatic cancer. He was a member of Bennington Rotary for many years, adding much to the meetings. In his forty year career in the automotive business, he owned Bennington Subaru for fifteen years until he sold it to the Autosaver Group in 2013, continuing to work for them as a management consultant until his retirement in 2019. He leaves his wife Corinne, and his children Thomas, Jenna and Catie as well as grandchildren Khiley and Noah.
Thomas Lyons
(1958-2020)Passed on: March 23, 2020Thomas Lyons
Tom died on March 23 following complications from pancreatic cancer. He was a member of Bennington Rotary for many years, adding much to the meetings. In his forty year career in the automotive business, he owned Bennington Subaru for fifteen years until he sold it to the Autosaver Group in 2013, continuing to work for them as a management consultant until his retirement in 2019. He leaves his wife Corinne, and his children Thomas, Jenna and Catie as well as grandchildren Khiley and Noah.
George French (1939-2020)
Passed on: January 26, 2020George French
George passed away in his home on Sunday evening, January 26 at age 81. This was George's fourth year in the Bennington Rotary Club after thirty nine years teaching Spanish in four different high schools in New Jersey. He and his wife Barbara moved to Bennimgton to spend time with their daughter and grandson. One of the reasons George joined Rotary was to be of service to the Bennington Community which he and Barbara enjoyed. We were fortunate to have George with us for the time we did.
George French
(1939-2020)Passed on: January 26, 2020George French
George passed away in his home on Sunday evening, January 26 at age 81. This was George's fourth year in the Bennington Rotary Club after thirty nine years teaching Spanish in four different high schools in New Jersey. He and his wife Barbara moved to Bennimgton to spend time with their daughter and grandson. One of the reasons George joined Rotary was to be of service to the Bennington Community which he and Barbara enjoyed. We were fortunate to have George with us for the time we did.
Lindy Lynch (1956-2019)
Passed on: August 3, 2019Lindy Lynch
Bennington Rotary and community members were saddened by the death of Lindy Lynch on August 3. Lindy was a vital member of our community. The list of her activities includes membership on many boards in Bennington and North Bennington. She was past president of the Bennington Chamber of Commerce and Chair of Events including the Garlic Fest. She was a past president of Rotary. Many events and organizations owe their success to Lindy. She was tireless in her work throughout the community whether in child care or business programs. She was a founding board member of WBTN radio station.
Lindy founded Country Corner Day Care and the Generations Care Center which was at the Veteran's Home. She was a past president of the Bennington Child Care Association. With her husband Kevin, she created Kevin's Restaurant in North Bennington.
Her courageous struggle with cancer over the past five years was an inspiration to many. The book Speed Bumps: Lindy Lynch's Journey Into Cancer chronicles her battle with the disease and offers hope to others.
Lindy will be much missed not only by her husband, her mother, her children and grandchildren, but by the many whose lives she touched through all she did for others.
Lindy Lynch
(1956-2019)Passed on: August 3, 2019Lindy Lynch
Bennington Rotary and community members were saddened by the death of Lindy Lynch on August 3. Lindy was a vital member of our community. The list of her activities includes membership on many boards in Bennington and North Bennington. She was past president of the Bennington Chamber of Commerce and Chair of Events including the Garlic Fest. She was a past president of Rotary. Many events and organizations owe their success to Lindy. She was tireless in her work throughout the community whether in child care or business programs. She was a founding board member of WBTN radio station.
Lindy founded Country Corner Day Care and the Generations Care Center which was at the Veteran's Home. She was a past president of the Bennington Child Care Association. With her husband Kevin, she created Kevin's Restaurant in North Bennington.
Her courageous struggle with cancer over the past five years was an inspiration to many. The book Speed Bumps: Lindy Lynch's Journey Into Cancer chronicles her battle with the disease and offers hope to others.
Lindy will be much missed not only by her husband, her mother, her children and grandchildren, but by the many whose lives she touched through all she did for others.
Scott Kreutz (1948-2019)
Passed on: March 7, 2019Scott Kreutz
Scott died on March 7, 2019. Scott was born in New Jersey, the second of six children. He grew up in Plainfield, New Jersey and moved to the Midwest. He went to the University of Ithaca and to graduate school at Northwestern in Chicago where he studied to be a lawyer. However, he wanted to be a banker and had a busy life for thirty years traveling all over the world on banking business. He and his husband, Jimmy Ong moved to Bennington in 2004. When he retired Scott was active in the community through the BBC and the Chamber of Commerce. He joined Rotary in 2010. There was a private memorial service for him in Bennington on May 10, 2019.
Scott Kreutz
(1948-2019)Passed on: March 7, 2019Scott Kreutz
Scott died on March 7, 2019. Scott was born in New Jersey, the second of six children. He grew up in Plainfield, New Jersey and moved to the Midwest. He went to the University of Ithaca and to graduate school at Northwestern in Chicago where he studied to be a lawyer. However, he wanted to be a banker and had a busy life for thirty years traveling all over the world on banking business. He and his husband, Jimmy Ong moved to Bennington in 2004. When he retired Scott was active in the community through the BBC and the Chamber of Commerce. He joined Rotary in 2010. There was a private memorial service for him in Bennington on May 10, 2019.
Hal Ehrenfreund (1927-2018)
Passed on: November 30, 2018Hal Ehrenfreund
Harold "Hel" Ehrenfreund died on November 30 at the age of 91. He lived in Bennington for forty-seven years. He was a member of the Bennington Rotary Club and a Paul Harris Fellow. He was on the board of the Old First Church where he led the capital campaign for the church's restoration in the 90's. He was the founder of the Owlkill Farm where he raised eggs that the sold to many local supermarkets. He is survived by his wife of 67 years, Betsy.
Hal Ehrenfreund
(1927-2018)Passed on: November 30, 2018Hal Ehrenfreund
Harold "Hel" Ehrenfreund died on November 30 at the age of 91. He lived in Bennington for forty-seven years. He was a member of the Bennington Rotary Club and a Paul Harris Fellow. He was on the board of the Old First Church where he led the capital campaign for the church's restoration in the 90's. He was the founder of the Owlkill Farm where he raised eggs that the sold to many local supermarkets. He is survived by his wife of 67 years, Betsy.
James Horrigan (1945-2017)
Passed on: January 7, 2017James Horrigan
James V. Horrigan, a resident of Woodford died unexpectedly at his residence on January 7, 2017 at age 72. He began his career at the Catamount Bank in Bennington. He was a member of the Bennington Rotary Club. He was on the Board of the Sacred Heart School and served as a Bennington Town Selector from 1980 to 1982, He retired in 2008 and was the Treasurer for the Woodford Lake Association during his retirement.
James Horrigan
(1945-2017)Passed on: January 7, 2017James Horrigan
James V. Horrigan, a resident of Woodford died unexpectedly at his residence on January 7, 2017 at age 72. He began his career at the Catamount Bank in Bennington. He was a member of the Bennington Rotary Club. He was on the Board of the Sacred Heart School and served as a Bennington Town Selector from 1980 to 1982, He retired in 2008 and was the Treasurer for the Woodford Lake Association during his retirement.
John Page (1924-2015)
Passed on: September 7, 2015John Page
John Page joined Rotary for the first time in 1952. He served his community in many ways throughout his life time. He was Bennington County's University of Vermont's agricultural extension agent for thirty-four years.
As a member of the Bennington Rotary Club he assisted in planting trees on Main Street and raising funds for the Southwestern Vermont Medical Center. He and his family hosted many exchange students.
He was a state representative and a state senator, often working across the aisle to get things accomplished. He served on the State Environmental Board and the Regional Planning Commission.
He organized the Bennington Bee Keepers Club among other things when he was the county extension agent.
His other community activities included serving on the board of the Second Congregational Church and as a justice of the peace. He was the president of the board of Merck Forest, He also taught a local gardening course taken over the years by 2000 people.
John had a radio program on WBTN for thirty years. Who can forget what he admonished his listeners at the end of every program? "Don't forget to drink your milk today."
John Page
(1924-2015)Passed on: September 7, 2015John Page
John Page joined Rotary for the first time in 1952. He served his community in many ways throughout his life time. He was Bennington County's University of Vermont's agricultural extension agent for thirty-four years.
As a member of the Bennington Rotary Club he assisted in planting trees on Main Street and raising funds for the Southwestern Vermont Medical Center. He and his family hosted many exchange students.
He was a state representative and a state senator, often working across the aisle to get things accomplished. He served on the State Environmental Board and the Regional Planning Commission.
He organized the Bennington Bee Keepers Club among other things when he was the county extension agent.
His other community activities included serving on the board of the Second Congregational Church and as a justice of the peace. He was the president of the board of Merck Forest, He also taught a local gardening course taken over the years by 2000 people.
John had a radio program on WBTN for thirty years. Who can forget what he admonished his listeners at the end of every program? "Don't forget to drink your milk today."
Robert Matteson (1916-2015)
Passed on: April 13, 2015Robert Matteson
Robert J.M. "Bob" Matteson died on Monday at his home in Bennington at age 98, according to a funeral notice in today's Banner.
Matteson, a Bennington native, served on many state and local boards, including as town moderator, town manager for Bennington from 1977 to 1981 and planning director for Vermont from 1981 to 1984. He drafted town charters for both Bennington and North Bennington and served as director of Bennington Tomorrow, a non-profit organization which formed to enhance the town's cultural and artistic environment and quality of life through a strong economy. He also served on many urban and rural planning commissions beyond the borders of Vermont.
In his later years, Matteson's passion for running earned him many awards in the most senior division. In fact, he was widely known as the "Geezer Gazelle" and traveled around the world to compete.
Matteson was born in Bennington in 1916, and he graduated from Middlebury College, then earned his Ph.D. Degree in economics and government from Harvard. He later served as an officer in the Navy during World War II.
Matteson was long a familiar face in town. His antiques business on South Street and his myriad of public offices have kept him in the limelight for many of his 98 years. Up until the last couple years, he frequently submitted letters to the editor of the Banner.
He was president of the Vermont Antiques Dealers Association, a long-time member of the Bennington Rotary Club, as well as involved with the New England Tropical Conservatory, Oldcastle Theater Company, the Bennington Museum, the Bennington Historical Society, UCS, and a variety of other organizations.
He was a high-ranking Masters Runner with several world records in the over 90 division. The local Batten Kill Valley Runners group named an award after Matteson, which goes to an athlete at Mount Anthony Union High School who shows Matteson's best characteristics: tenacity, dedication, determination, goal orientation, and above all, maintaining a sense of humor in the face of defeat. These attributes earned Matteson an appointment to the Governor's Commission on Healthy Aging.
In 2009 the Vermont House of Representatives recognized both Matteson's civic and athletic achievements in a resolution honoring him. "Bob Matteson's truly remarkable athletic feats should be celebrated as an example of human determination, endurance, and extraordinary skill," it stated in part.
Robert Matteson
(1916-2015)Passed on: April 13, 2015Robert Matteson
Robert J.M. "Bob" Matteson died on Monday at his home in Bennington at age 98, according to a funeral notice in today's Banner.
Matteson, a Bennington native, served on many state and local boards, including as town moderator, town manager for Bennington from 1977 to 1981 and planning director for Vermont from 1981 to 1984. He drafted town charters for both Bennington and North Bennington and served as director of Bennington Tomorrow, a non-profit organization which formed to enhance the town's cultural and artistic environment and quality of life through a strong economy. He also served on many urban and rural planning commissions beyond the borders of Vermont.
In his later years, Matteson's passion for running earned him many awards in the most senior division. In fact, he was widely known as the "Geezer Gazelle" and traveled around the world to compete.
Matteson was born in Bennington in 1916, and he graduated from Middlebury College, then earned his Ph.D. Degree in economics and government from Harvard. He later served as an officer in the Navy during World War II.
Matteson was long a familiar face in town. His antiques business on South Street and his myriad of public offices have kept him in the limelight for many of his 98 years. Up until the last couple years, he frequently submitted letters to the editor of the Banner.
He was president of the Vermont Antiques Dealers Association, a long-time member of the Bennington Rotary Club, as well as involved with the New England Tropical Conservatory, Oldcastle Theater Company, the Bennington Museum, the Bennington Historical Society, UCS, and a variety of other organizations.
He was a high-ranking Masters Runner with several world records in the over 90 division. The local Batten Kill Valley Runners group named an award after Matteson, which goes to an athlete at Mount Anthony Union High School who shows Matteson's best characteristics: tenacity, dedication, determination, goal orientation, and above all, maintaining a sense of humor in the face of defeat. These attributes earned Matteson an appointment to the Governor's Commission on Healthy Aging.
In 2009 the Vermont House of Representatives recognized both Matteson's civic and athletic achievements in a resolution honoring him. "Bob Matteson's truly remarkable athletic feats should be celebrated as an example of human determination, endurance, and extraordinary skill," it stated in part.
Ron Knapp (1925-2014)
Passed on: November 2, 2014Ron Knapp
Ron Knapp was a Rotarian for 49
years. He was also a Paul Harris
Fellow. Ron was also a life-long
Mason. He served his community
in many ways. For ten years he
was a member of the Bennington
School Board and he represented
Bennington for another ten years
in the Vermont Legislautre.
Ron also exemplifed Service above
Self in his business Knapp's Pets
and Hobbies which he ran for
thirty years. For the last ten years
he ran his beloved Irish Vacation
House. He and his wife Ellen
really enjoyed it and he made it
seem most inviting.
Ron had a great sense of humor
and he once suggested one of the
best money raising fines the
Bennington Rotary club ever had.
Anyone who didn't have a real
handkerchief had to pay the fine.
Ron will be much missed by his
friends and his family as well as
the Bennington community.
Ron Knapp
(1925-2014)Passed on: November 2, 2014Ron Knapp
Ron Knapp was a Rotarian for 49
years. He was also a Paul Harris
Fellow. Ron was also a life-long
Mason. He served his community
in many ways. For ten years he
was a member of the Bennington
School Board and he represented
Bennington for another ten years
in the Vermont Legislautre.
Ron also exemplifed Service above
Self in his business Knapp's Pets
and Hobbies which he ran for
thirty years. For the last ten years
he ran his beloved Irish Vacation
House. He and his wife Ellen
really enjoyed it and he made it
seem most inviting.
Ron had a great sense of humor
and he once suggested one of the
best money raising fines the
Bennington Rotary club ever had.
Anyone who didn't have a real
handkerchief had to pay the fine.
Ron will be much missed by his
friends and his family as well as
the Bennington community.
Tim Lefevre (1975-2011)
Passed on: August 11, 2011Tim Lefevre
Timothy D. Lefevre 35 of Stamford, Vt. died Thursday August 11, 2011 at his home. He was born in Ware, Ma. on November 7, 1975 a son of Ralph and Elizabeth Waugh Lefevre. He graduated from Quaboag Regional High School where he played on the basketball and soccer teams. He attended the University of Massachusetts and graduated from Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts with a degree in business and accounting.
He was employed at the time of his death as a certified public account for Love Cody and Company a accounting firm in Bennington, Vt. He was an avid reader and Red Sox fan. He enjoyed sports and was a devoted father.
Survivors include his father: Ralph Lefevre and his wife Sandra of North Brookfield, Mass. and his mother: Elizabeth Lefevre of Coventry, Vt. His wife Danielle Smith whom he married September 28, 2008 at their home. One Son: Gavin Lefevre of Stamford, Vt. One Sister: Michelle Turnbull. Five brothers: Steven Lefevre, Jason Lefevre, Thomas Cummings, Todd Cummings and Craig Nicholas. Several nieces, nephews and friends.
Tim Lefevre
(1975-2011)Passed on: August 11, 2011Tim Lefevre
Timothy D. Lefevre 35 of Stamford, Vt. died Thursday August 11, 2011 at his home. He was born in Ware, Ma. on November 7, 1975 a son of Ralph and Elizabeth Waugh Lefevre. He graduated from Quaboag Regional High School where he played on the basketball and soccer teams. He attended the University of Massachusetts and graduated from Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts with a degree in business and accounting.
He was employed at the time of his death as a certified public account for Love Cody and Company a accounting firm in Bennington, Vt. He was an avid reader and Red Sox fan. He enjoyed sports and was a devoted father.
Survivors include his father: Ralph Lefevre and his wife Sandra of North Brookfield, Mass. and his mother: Elizabeth Lefevre of Coventry, Vt. His wife Danielle Smith whom he married September 28, 2008 at their home. One Son: Gavin Lefevre of Stamford, Vt. One Sister: Michelle Turnbull. Five brothers: Steven Lefevre, Jason Lefevre, Thomas Cummings, Todd Cummings and Craig Nicholas. Several nieces, nephews and friends.
Samual Hibbard (1932-2012)
Passed on: November 2, 2012Samual Hibbard
Samuel Newcomb Hibbard of 1455 Maple Grove Road, Pownal, Vt., died of leukemia at Mayo Clinic in Phoenix, Arizona on Friday, November 2, 2012 at the age of 80.
Samuel Newcomb Hibbard of 1455 Maple Grove Road, Pownal, Vt., died of leukemia at Mayo Clinic in Phoenix, Arizona on Friday, November 2, 2012 at the age of 80.
Born in North Adams, on October 1, 1932, he was the son of Perley Nudd and Grace Bargh Hibbard. He attended local Bennington schools, graduating from Bennington High as president of the class of 1950. He received a BA in Economics from Bowdoin College in 1954, where he was a member of Beta Theta Pi fraternity. Sam earned an ROTC commission as a second lieutenant in the army transportation corps. His military assignment was twenty months in the USA Southern German headquarters in Munich, Germany.
Sam attended Wharton Graduate School at the University of Pennsylvania, receiving an MBA degree in Industrial Management in 1958. There followed a thirty-year career at Norton Company (now St. Gobain) in Worcester, Mass. He held a variety of positions: industrial engineer, pension analyst, staff accountant, purchasing agent and director of compensation and benefits.
A major interest was health care insurance cost containment. In this regard, Sam was a founder and member of the Central Massachusetts Business Group on Health and a founder and member of the Worcester Area Systems for Affordable Health Care.
In Holden, Mass., Sam was a five-year member and chair of the Holden School Committee. After retiring to the family farm in Vermont, he was a Pownal selectman for three years, a director of United Way of Bennington County for six years and a trustee of the Bennington Museum for nine years. A lifelong Rotarian, he was a Paul Harris Fellow.
Most recently he has been a voting member of the American Institute for Economic Research in Great Barrington.
Sam leaves his wife of fifty years, Marietta Laskey Hibbard, two daughters, Wendy Lee Hibbard of Canton, Conn., and Melinda Newcomb Kruder of Carol Stream, IL, as well as a brother, Albert Dudley Hibbard of Prudence Island, RI.
Samual Hibbard
(1932-2012)Passed on: November 2, 2012Samual Hibbard
Samuel Newcomb Hibbard of 1455 Maple Grove Road, Pownal, Vt., died of leukemia at Mayo Clinic in Phoenix, Arizona on Friday, November 2, 2012 at the age of 80.
Samuel Newcomb Hibbard of 1455 Maple Grove Road, Pownal, Vt., died of leukemia at Mayo Clinic in Phoenix, Arizona on Friday, November 2, 2012 at the age of 80.
Born in North Adams, on October 1, 1932, he was the son of Perley Nudd and Grace Bargh Hibbard. He attended local Bennington schools, graduating from Bennington High as president of the class of 1950. He received a BA in Economics from Bowdoin College in 1954, where he was a member of Beta Theta Pi fraternity. Sam earned an ROTC commission as a second lieutenant in the army transportation corps. His military assignment was twenty months in the USA Southern German headquarters in Munich, Germany.
Sam attended Wharton Graduate School at the University of Pennsylvania, receiving an MBA degree in Industrial Management in 1958. There followed a thirty-year career at Norton Company (now St. Gobain) in Worcester, Mass. He held a variety of positions: industrial engineer, pension analyst, staff accountant, purchasing agent and director of compensation and benefits.
A major interest was health care insurance cost containment. In this regard, Sam was a founder and member of the Central Massachusetts Business Group on Health and a founder and member of the Worcester Area Systems for Affordable Health Care.
In Holden, Mass., Sam was a five-year member and chair of the Holden School Committee. After retiring to the family farm in Vermont, he was a Pownal selectman for three years, a director of United Way of Bennington County for six years and a trustee of the Bennington Museum for nine years. A lifelong Rotarian, he was a Paul Harris Fellow.
Most recently he has been a voting member of the American Institute for Economic Research in Great Barrington.
Sam leaves his wife of fifty years, Marietta Laskey Hibbard, two daughters, Wendy Lee Hibbard of Canton, Conn., and Melinda Newcomb Kruder of Carol Stream, IL, as well as a brother, Albert Dudley Hibbard of Prudence Island, RI.
Oakley Frost (1932-2011)
Passed on: May 16, 2011Oakley Frost
Dr. Oakley M. Frost, retired surgeon and former longtime resident of North Bennington died unexpectedly Monday May 16, 2011 at his home in Hoosick Falls, N.Y., he was 79 years of age. Born in Middletown Springs on February 23, 1932, he was the son of Oakley T. and Lillian (Gentles) Frost, he received his early education at the Whitney School in Old Bennington and was a graduate of Plattsburgh (NY) High School. He continued his education at Williams College in Williamstown, Mass., where he received his under graduate degree and then Albany Medical School where he obtained his Doctorate in Medicine Degree. He pursued specialized training in Vascular and General Surgery at Albany Medical Center and the Veterans Administration Hospital in Albany where he served his internship.
A resident of the Bennington area since 1965, he was a Vascular and General Surgeon at the Southwestern Vermont Medical until retiring in 2005. Dr. Frost was a Korean War Veteran serving in the US Navy aboard the USS Boston. He was a member of the Zion Episcopal Church in Manchester Center, Mt. Anthony Lodge Free and Accepted Masons, Bennington Rotary Club, Sage City Symphony, Union College Symphony and a board member of the new England Tropical Conservatory. He thoroughly enjoyed music and was a member of the Sage City 6 Dixieland Band, Frosty 4 Barbershop Quartet with his sons and has sung with the Mendelssohn Club of Albany. He also enjoyed gardening, maintaining a large garden for many years at his home and was known for growing beautiful dahlias, he loved his 59 Corvette which he has owned since being a young man.
He leaves his wife Carol (Comar) Frost whom he married November 3, 1996 in Bennington, his former wife Dorothy Frost of North Bennington and their children daughter and son in laws Elizabeth Anne and Jeffrey Silva and children Conner and Rowan of Ipswich, Mass., Kristina Kim and Jeffrey Moll and children Remy and Sami of Middleton, Mass., Laura Maria and Eric Van Denbrulle and daughter Eve of New York City, son and daughter in laws John David Frost of Burlington, Robert and Julie Frost and children Olivia, Hannah and Addison of Monroe, Conn., Matthew Joseph and Susie Frost and daughter Kyana of North Bennington, Jonathan Jay Frost of West Palm Beach, Fla., Eric Scott and Nancy Frost MD FACS and children Erica and Adam of Bennington, Randall Oakley Frost of North Bennington, Gary D. and Laurie Frost and children Alicia, Alexis, Rachel and Kristina of Stuart, Fla., step daughter Angela Pugliese of Bennington, sisters Margery Sherman and son Andrew of Sidney, Australia and Cynthia and Timothy Moran and children John and Tim of Glenrock, Pa.
Dr. Frost was predeceased by a sister Betty Ann Frost.
Oakley Frost
(1932-2011)Passed on: May 16, 2011Oakley Frost
Dr. Oakley M. Frost, retired surgeon and former longtime resident of North Bennington died unexpectedly Monday May 16, 2011 at his home in Hoosick Falls, N.Y., he was 79 years of age. Born in Middletown Springs on February 23, 1932, he was the son of Oakley T. and Lillian (Gentles) Frost, he received his early education at the Whitney School in Old Bennington and was a graduate of Plattsburgh (NY) High School. He continued his education at Williams College in Williamstown, Mass., where he received his under graduate degree and then Albany Medical School where he obtained his Doctorate in Medicine Degree. He pursued specialized training in Vascular and General Surgery at Albany Medical Center and the Veterans Administration Hospital in Albany where he served his internship.
A resident of the Bennington area since 1965, he was a Vascular and General Surgeon at the Southwestern Vermont Medical until retiring in 2005. Dr. Frost was a Korean War Veteran serving in the US Navy aboard the USS Boston. He was a member of the Zion Episcopal Church in Manchester Center, Mt. Anthony Lodge Free and Accepted Masons, Bennington Rotary Club, Sage City Symphony, Union College Symphony and a board member of the new England Tropical Conservatory. He thoroughly enjoyed music and was a member of the Sage City 6 Dixieland Band, Frosty 4 Barbershop Quartet with his sons and has sung with the Mendelssohn Club of Albany. He also enjoyed gardening, maintaining a large garden for many years at his home and was known for growing beautiful dahlias, he loved his 59 Corvette which he has owned since being a young man.
He leaves his wife Carol (Comar) Frost whom he married November 3, 1996 in Bennington, his former wife Dorothy Frost of North Bennington and their children daughter and son in laws Elizabeth Anne and Jeffrey Silva and children Conner and Rowan of Ipswich, Mass., Kristina Kim and Jeffrey Moll and children Remy and Sami of Middleton, Mass., Laura Maria and Eric Van Denbrulle and daughter Eve of New York City, son and daughter in laws John David Frost of Burlington, Robert and Julie Frost and children Olivia, Hannah and Addison of Monroe, Conn., Matthew Joseph and Susie Frost and daughter Kyana of North Bennington, Jonathan Jay Frost of West Palm Beach, Fla., Eric Scott and Nancy Frost MD FACS and children Erica and Adam of Bennington, Randall Oakley Frost of North Bennington, Gary D. and Laurie Frost and children Alicia, Alexis, Rachel and Kristina of Stuart, Fla., step daughter Angela Pugliese of Bennington, sisters Margery Sherman and son Andrew of Sidney, Australia and Cynthia and Timothy Moran and children John and Tim of Glenrock, Pa.
Dr. Frost was predeceased by a sister Betty Ann Frost.
Fred Ehrich (1914-2012)
Passed on: May 15, 2012Fred Ehrich
Manfred W. Ehrich Jr. died May 15, 2012, at Equinox Village where he and his late wife, Elane, were residents since 2009. Fred was born in NYC on November 2, 1914.
Educated at Dalton, Taft and Yale and earning a degree at Harvard Law School in 1940, Fred practiced for a year in his father's law firm in NYC before going on active duty in 1941 as an artillery officer in the U.S. Army. In August 1942, he was posted to the Aleutian Islands, came home in May 1944 for a short leave and then was posted to Italy until his discharge in 1945.
While Fred was on active duty, he and his first wife, Lea Ehrich, decided she would move with their three children to Arlington, Vermont. Fred joined his family in Arlington after the war but since he was not a "native," Vermont required two years' residency before he could be admitted to practice law. Surveying many parcels of land in Bennington County and teaching English at Burr & Burton kept food on the table. Former students still fondly remember the war stories he told in class which he said was one way to get them interested in English. In 1947, he hung out his shingle in Bennington where he practiced law for 49 years. In 1956, he argued a case for a wrongfully terminated employee before the United States Supreme Court. During oral argument, Justice Frankfurter asked him a question. Stalling to collect his thoughts, he said "You know, your honor, that's a difficult question." Justice Frankfurter replied, "You wouldn't want me to ask you an easy one, would you?" Fred won the case.
Fred did not resign his commission after WWII and continued in the Reserves. In 1951, he was called back to active duty and served in Korea until he was wounded in action. After that, he completed 30 years as a Reserve Officer, retiring as a Lt. Colonel.
Fred was deeply involved with local politics (Republican brand), in numerous community services in Bennington County and with his neighbors, helping chop wood and other chores. He wrote an anecdotal book (proceeds to benefit the Arlington Community Club) about his early years as a "flatlander" making friends with Vermonters. In addition to all his civic activities, he always found time for his young family, taking the kids hiking, horseback riding and teaching them how to sail on Lake Champlain in canoes which he had himself outfitted with striped canvas sails made from old awnings.
In 1971, Fred and Lea divorced and he married Elane Granger. He and Elane lived in Bennington until 2009 when they moved to Equinox Village in Manchester.
When Fred retired from his law practice at the age of 80 ("Don't tell anyone but my secretary is retiring."), he donned his trademark red suspenders and was elected to the Vermont State Senate where he served two terms. Afterwards, even though not running for office, he wore red suspenders which shone a light on his playful side and the keen and charming wit enjoyed by him, his family and his friends. His list of talents were endless: he skied; he sailed; he rode horseback; he fashioned furniture with hand tools; he sang in the church choir. He will be deeply missed but forever appreciated by his family, his friends and the community.
Fred is survived by his children, Perez Ehrich and his wife Elizabeth of Arlington, Vermont, Jessie Lea Abbott and her husband Curtiss of Sisters, Oregon, Andy Livingston and his partner Donna Ryan of Cape Neddick, Maine, and Raymond Granger and his wife Sylvia of Scottsdale, Arizona; by his grandchildren, Gillian Ehrich, Shannon Ehrich-Warren, Clay Perkins, Zander Livingston, Birchard, Rutherford and Sarah Hayes, Jeannette, Luisa and Sarah Ehrich, Ursula van Heel, John Karhu, Travis Granger and Karen Williams; and by his great-grandchildren, Manfred "Bucky" and Gunther Hayes, Cameron Sloan, Lucy and Zinia Sheps, Hadley and Merritt Perkins, Carmella and Joseph Livingston, Owen Williams, Jonathan and Anna Karhu, and Eric and Christopher van Heel. Fred's oldest son, Manfred W. "Terry" Ehrich III, predeceased him in 2002 and Elane predeceased him in 2010. His children, Perez and Jessie, are twins and he had a twin sister, Dona, who predeceased him in 2000.
Fred Ehrich
(1914-2012)Passed on: May 15, 2012Fred Ehrich
Manfred W. Ehrich Jr. died May 15, 2012, at Equinox Village where he and his late wife, Elane, were residents since 2009. Fred was born in NYC on November 2, 1914.
Educated at Dalton, Taft and Yale and earning a degree at Harvard Law School in 1940, Fred practiced for a year in his father's law firm in NYC before going on active duty in 1941 as an artillery officer in the U.S. Army. In August 1942, he was posted to the Aleutian Islands, came home in May 1944 for a short leave and then was posted to Italy until his discharge in 1945.
While Fred was on active duty, he and his first wife, Lea Ehrich, decided she would move with their three children to Arlington, Vermont. Fred joined his family in Arlington after the war but since he was not a "native," Vermont required two years' residency before he could be admitted to practice law. Surveying many parcels of land in Bennington County and teaching English at Burr & Burton kept food on the table. Former students still fondly remember the war stories he told in class which he said was one way to get them interested in English. In 1947, he hung out his shingle in Bennington where he practiced law for 49 years. In 1956, he argued a case for a wrongfully terminated employee before the United States Supreme Court. During oral argument, Justice Frankfurter asked him a question. Stalling to collect his thoughts, he said "You know, your honor, that's a difficult question." Justice Frankfurter replied, "You wouldn't want me to ask you an easy one, would you?" Fred won the case.
Fred did not resign his commission after WWII and continued in the Reserves. In 1951, he was called back to active duty and served in Korea until he was wounded in action. After that, he completed 30 years as a Reserve Officer, retiring as a Lt. Colonel.
Fred was deeply involved with local politics (Republican brand), in numerous community services in Bennington County and with his neighbors, helping chop wood and other chores. He wrote an anecdotal book (proceeds to benefit the Arlington Community Club) about his early years as a "flatlander" making friends with Vermonters. In addition to all his civic activities, he always found time for his young family, taking the kids hiking, horseback riding and teaching them how to sail on Lake Champlain in canoes which he had himself outfitted with striped canvas sails made from old awnings.
In 1971, Fred and Lea divorced and he married Elane Granger. He and Elane lived in Bennington until 2009 when they moved to Equinox Village in Manchester.
When Fred retired from his law practice at the age of 80 ("Don't tell anyone but my secretary is retiring."), he donned his trademark red suspenders and was elected to the Vermont State Senate where he served two terms. Afterwards, even though not running for office, he wore red suspenders which shone a light on his playful side and the keen and charming wit enjoyed by him, his family and his friends. His list of talents were endless: he skied; he sailed; he rode horseback; he fashioned furniture with hand tools; he sang in the church choir. He will be deeply missed but forever appreciated by his family, his friends and the community.
Fred is survived by his children, Perez Ehrich and his wife Elizabeth of Arlington, Vermont, Jessie Lea Abbott and her husband Curtiss of Sisters, Oregon, Andy Livingston and his partner Donna Ryan of Cape Neddick, Maine, and Raymond Granger and his wife Sylvia of Scottsdale, Arizona; by his grandchildren, Gillian Ehrich, Shannon Ehrich-Warren, Clay Perkins, Zander Livingston, Birchard, Rutherford and Sarah Hayes, Jeannette, Luisa and Sarah Ehrich, Ursula van Heel, John Karhu, Travis Granger and Karen Williams; and by his great-grandchildren, Manfred "Bucky" and Gunther Hayes, Cameron Sloan, Lucy and Zinia Sheps, Hadley and Merritt Perkins, Carmella and Joseph Livingston, Owen Williams, Jonathan and Anna Karhu, and Eric and Christopher van Heel. Fred's oldest son, Manfred W. "Terry" Ehrich III, predeceased him in 2002 and Elane predeceased him in 2010. His children, Perez and Jessie, are twins and he had a twin sister, Dona, who predeceased him in 2000.
Eunice Schleif (1932-2008)
Passed on: November 17, 2008Eunice Schleif
Eunice was a dedicated member of Rotary and a dedicated
member of the Bennington Community, demonstrating
Service Above Self and the principles of the Four Way
Test in all of her actions in Rotary and in the
community. She worked tirelessly on all of
the club's projects and was always
available when needed.
She is much missed.
Club President: 1998-1999
Assistant Governor
Started Spirit of Sharing 1983, Chair until 2008
Chair, Car Show Admissions
Chair, Spaghetti Supper Admissions
Numerous other projects and committees.
Eunice Schleif
(1932-2008)Passed on: November 17, 2008Eunice Schleif
Eunice was a dedicated member of Rotary and a dedicated
member of the Bennington Community, demonstrating
Service Above Self and the principles of the Four Way
Test in all of her actions in Rotary and in the
community. She worked tirelessly on all of
the club's projects and was always
available when needed.
She is much missed.
Club President: 1998-1999
Assistant Governor
Started Spirit of Sharing 1983, Chair until 2008
Chair, Car Show Admissions
Chair, Spaghetti Supper Admissions
Numerous other projects and committees.
Eugene Clark (1919-2015)
Passed on: May 15, 2015Eugene Clark
Gene Clark was a long-time member of Rotary. He was president from 1956 to 1957. Gene also served as President of the Bennington County Bar association and a member of the Vermont Board of Bar Examiners. He practice law until he was 80.
He was a municipal court judge from 1959-62, Bennington County State Senator from 1952-64 and a member of the House of Representatives in 1968.He served on many town boards including the hospital and the Bennington Savings and Loan.
Eugene Clark
(1919-2015)Passed on: May 15, 2015Eugene Clark
Gene Clark was a long-time member of Rotary. He was president from 1956 to 1957. Gene also served as President of the Bennington County Bar association and a member of the Vermont Board of Bar Examiners. He practice law until he was 80.
He was a municipal court judge from 1959-62, Bennington County State Senator from 1952-64 and a member of the House of Representatives in 1968.He served on many town boards including the hospital and the Bennington Savings and Loan.