George S Haynes met his Lord and Savior on February 27, 2024, passing away following a brief illness and surrounded by his wife Rose and his children. Born in Brooklyn, New York on May 8, 1943, and raised in Bay Ridge, he forever carried fond memories of his childhood days growing up near Fort Hamilton and watching the ships sailing by the bay and soldiers marching in step. These memories were strong, despite his tender age. His family moved to North Bennington, Vermont in December of 1946 where they remained and where George and his brother Rick were raised.

In 1961, he began what would become a lifelong banking career, working in the bookkeeping department at Vermont Bank and Trust Company (now TD Bank). He quickly rose through the ranks, and by the age of 21 was named assistant manager. In 1967, at the age of 24, he became a branch manager and assistant treasurer, becoming the youngest to achieve an officer’s position in the bank’s history.

In 1977, George embarked on an endeavor that would define his style and compassion for the rest of his life, helping people financially by establishing an office of Consumer Credit Counseling, a nonprofit whose only concern was to help people manage debt without family or personal disaster. He initially served as Advisory Board Chairman and later was elected to serve on the board of directors. In 1985, he became President of the organization and remained in this position until 2008.

In 1982, George was asked to cover the retail credit department in Brattleboro. While this was intended to be a short term assignment, he remained for ten years, moving to Brattleboro and making it his forever home. During these ten years he rose through the ranks once again, eventually becoming Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of Vermont Mortgage Group, and Senior Vice President of First Vermont Bank, both part of what is now TD Bank.

In 1991, George was approached by the search committee of The Brattleboro Savings and Loan and on January 27, 1992 he became President and Chief Executive Officer, serving until his retirement on December 31, 2007. Under his stewardship, the bank experienced unprecedented growth and received numerous awards and recognition, including two Community Bank Awards (in 2006 in recognition of its Community Person of the Month program, and in 2007 in recognition of Project Feed the Thousands). BS&L was voted the Best Bank in Brattleboro in the Brattleboro Reformer Readers Choice Awards in both 2006 and 2007 and was recognized by Vermont Businesses for Social Responsibility as the 2007 recipient of its socially responsible Small Business of the Year.

George was very proud of the programs that he instituted during his tenure at BS&L, including Community Appreciation Day, the Community People Award, the establishment of a living wage policy for all employees, the commitment to donate 10% of net profits to local organizations, and first and foremost the establishment of Project Feed the Thousands in 1994. A stalwart of the Brattleboro community, George served on numerous boards and donated his time to a number of community organizations and services.

George’s retirement was predicated by a trip to China in April 2007, sponsored by the UVM Asian Studies Outreach Program. George was invited to join educators and students to learn more about education in China and to share his insights based on his commitment and experience with the bank branch at BUHS and Windham Regional Career Center. He suddenly gained new perspective and realized that there was a whole world out there waiting to be explored and he wanted to be a part of it.

A lifelong baseball and sports fan, George played semi-pro ball as a teenager and then became the power-hitter for local softball team BS&L where he helped the team win two championships. One of the main joys of his life was traveling around the country and Canada visiting ball fields with his son George, Jr. Although they did not make it to all 32 parks, they shared some special memories in the quest. He was, of course, thrilled to see his beloved Red Sox win the World Championship in 2004, and several more times thereafter.

On March 9, 2010, in St Augustine FL, George married Rose (Robertson) Cavanagh, the love of his life and forever soul mate. Together, they traveled the world and shared many wonderful adventures. His 70th birthday was spent in Bora Bora in an overwater bungalow in the lagoon. In addition to their international travels, George and Rose were proud to say that they had visited every state, taking two extended cross-country road trips in 2012 and 2015. Rose was his companion and partner and they built a beautiful life together. They made a point to spend time with family, including with his daughter Tiffany Finck-Haynes in Washington, DC and his son George and family in Cambridge, NY. He embraced Rose’s entire family, becoming a father to Rose’s four children, and was a beloved Pop-Pop and Grampa George to his many grandchildren and step-grandchildren.

George is survived by his wife Rose; his children Robin Haynes Gardner, George Spencer Haynes, Jr., (Eileen), Tiffany Finck-Haynes (Jorge Aguilar) and Spencer Haynes; and Melissa Cavanagh, Stephanie Cavanagh, Jessica Doleszny (John) and Gregory Cavanagh (Starr Bruce), along with many, many grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his brother Rick Haynes (Sue); and by George, Jr., and Robin’s mother, Leona Center. A man that truly embraced his extended family, he is also survived by his mother-in-law, Irma Robertson, along with many, many members of both the Robertson and Cavanagh families. He was predeceased by his father Spencer Haynes and his treasured mother Roberta Stultz Haynes.

George was confident, courageous, intelligent, generous, and funny. He had nicknames for everyone. He could be very firm in his opinions and he loved a good debate. Even until his death, he lived his life on his own terms. Like the Chairman of the Board, he did things his way. His family, his dear friends, and the entire Brattleboro Community mourn his loss but will cherish many fond memories forever.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that anyone wishing to honor George’s legacy consider making a donation to Project Feed the Thousands, a not-for-profit organization whose sole goal is to provide food for local families. Along with his wife Rose, George remained active in Project Feed the Thousands from its inception in 1994 until 2024. He was very proud that, through his efforts and the efforts of the board and staff, they were able to serve (and continue to serve) thousands upon thousands of families, too many to put a number on. Checks can be mailed to Project Feed the Thousands, c/o 802 Credit Union, PO Box 8366, Brattleboro, VT 05304.

A celebration of George’s life will be held at the VFW on Black Mountain Rd., in Brattleboro, Vermont on Saturday, March 23rd, beginning at 2PM. His family invites everyone who knew and loved George to join them for light refreshments, fellowship, and the sharing of stories and memories – ‘For All The Right Reasons’.

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Bennington, Vermont – Pauline A Svitak, 86, died peacefully surrounded by her family on Monday, March 27, 2023, at her residence in Bennington, Vermont.

She was born in Cambridge, New York, on September 25, 1936, the daughter of Martin and Jennie McHugh.
She was a graduate of Cambridge Central High School.

Mrs. Svitak worked briefly at the Seed House in Cambridge before meeting the love of her life, Robert Svitak Sr.
She married Robert Svitak Sr. on September 15, 1956.

Her primary role was being a loving mother and wife and ensuring her family’s happiness. While raising her four children, Pauline was a proud Avon representative. She later worked at JCPenny. Once retired from JCPenny’s, Pauline enjoyed time with her husband, Robert, children, and many grandchildren.

Pauline never passed up a good tag sale and was always willing to barter on the price. She loved singing in the Sacred Heart church choir and had the voice of an angel. She was always looking out for her family and wanted to get them a deal, which led to her famous catchphrase, “Does a coupon ever really expire?” Through retirement Pauline and her husband Robert would go to the Casino and have a good time together at the slots. Above all, Pauline enjoyed being in the presence of her family, where she would always share a story, a good joke, and a trivia fact at family functions.

Pauline had a heart of gold and was always looking out for the best interest of her family, and she will be deeply missed by them all.

Survivors include her three children and their spouses. Daughters Peggy (Mike) Burke of Hull, MA and Ann (Duane) Peacock of Shaftsbury, VT. Son William (Angela) Svitak of Rutland, VT. Nine grandchildren, Braden (Alyssa), Conner (Melissa) and Jensen (Aaron) Burke, Duane Jr. (Marcy), Diane (Jason), Brad (James), and Erin (Nico) Peacock, Kaylee and Marin Svitak, and three great-grandchildren Mason Peacock, Grayson and Willa Burke and many nieces and nephews.

Pauline was predeceased by her husband, Robert Svitak Sr., her son, Robert Svitak Jr., and her sisters, Irene Gates and Jane Guiden.

A private service will be held at Mahar and Son Funeral Home in Bennington.

In lieu of requesting donations, the family feels that the best way to honor Pauline’s life is that you perform a random act of kindness.

Guestbook condolences may be made at www.maharandsonfuneralhome.net

To plant Memorial Trees in memory of Pauline Svitak, please click here to visit our Sympathy Store.

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Bennington, Vermont – Hazel Squiers Harrington, 87, a resident of Bennington, passed away Wednesday, March 29, 2023 following a brief illness.

She was born in Arlington, VT on December 17, 1935. She was the daughter of the late Royce and Margaret (Gilbar) Squiers. She was one of fourteen children. Hazel attended school in Arlington, VT and graduated from Lyndon State Teacher’s College. Upon graduation, she taught in Vergennes, VT for several years. Later in her career, she was a substitute teacher in the Bennington area schools.

On October 15, 1966, Hazel married William H. Harrington Jr. who pre-deceased her in July of 2011. In their nearly 45 years of marriage, they shared their love of the outdoors, hiking, hunting, fishing, camping, and relaxing along with their children James and Diane. Their yard was always the neighborhood hangout and hosted many kickball and wiffle ball games, tag contests and hide and seek. Hazel was known as “Mom” or “Ma” by a lot of those kids.

Upon retirement from Eveready, Hazel joined Bill in the ranks of retirement and together they traveled. Their little Scamper could be seen all along the Eastern United States, but their favorite spot was Cedar Point, North Carolina. Hazel continued to travel with her children after Bill’s death, and together they had many adventures.

Survivors include, her daughter, Diane Mead of Bennington, her son James Harrington and his wife Wanda of Bennington. Her four grandchildren, Stacey, Amanda, Jennifer (Caleb) and Ian. Hazel is also survived by two brothers, Max and David Squiers (Bonnie) and two sister in laws, Janice Harrington and Dawn Clark (James) along with many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. Hazel was pre-deceased by her parents, siblings: Gilbert Squiers, Lucille Squiers, Richard Squiers, Vernon Squiers, Ruth Squiers Gataletto, Joyce Squiers Gates, Phyllis Squiers Main, James “Don” Squiers, Linda Squiers Rose, Esther Squiers Gates, Kenneth Squiers and Nancy Squiers Gates Spinning.

At Hazel’s request, there will be no formal services. The family will have a celebration of life at a later date.

If friends desire contributions in memory of Hazel Squiers Harrington may be made to Bennington Project Independence through the office of the Mahar and Son Funeral Home 628 Main St. Bennington, VT 05201.

To plant Memorial Trees in memory of Hazel Squiers Harrington, please click here to visit our Sympathy Store.

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Pownal, Vermont – Dolores J Andrews, 88, a resident of Pownal, Vermont passed away peacefully on March 20th, 2023 at Berkshire Medical Center in Pittsfield, Massachusetts following a long Illness.

Born on March 30, 1934 in Cohoes, New York. She was the daughter of the late Mark and Charlotte (Subcliff) Evans. As a teenager Dolores moved to Williamstown, Massachusetts, and later graduated from Williamstown High School.

On October 18, 1952, she married George Andrews at Pownal Center Community Church.

Dolores worked for many years at several doctors offices in the Bennington area.

In her free time, Dolores loved spending time with friends and family and attending family functions. For 17 years she and her husband George would spend the winter months at their second home in New Port Richie, Florida. Dolores also enjoyed; fishing, camping, crafts, and knitting.

Survivors include her husband of 70 years, George Andrews. Her children; Cheryl Foster (Alan Tate), Pat Leonard (Bill), and Karen Rogers (Dale). Her grandchildren; Brian and Bruce Foster, Shawn Leonard, and Stacy Lauver. Her great grandchildren; Elizabeth, Aedan, Carter, Sawyer, Nevaeh, and Izabel.
As well as many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

Dolores was predeceased by her sister, Joan Griggs and her brothers, Mark and John Evans.

Friends are invited to a visitation from 11am till 12pm on Friday, March 24th, 2023 at the Mahar Funeral Home in Bennington, Vermont. Following the conclusion of the visitation at noon, there will be a memorial service.

If friends should desire, contributions in memory of Dolores may be made to the National Kidney Foundation or the Pownal Valley Swinging Seniors through the office of the Mahar Funeral Home 628 Main Street Bennington, Vermont 05201

To plant Memorial Trees in memory of Dolores Jean Andrews, please click here to visit our Sympathy Store.

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Winooski, VT – Joyce A Walker, 81, passed away at home with her family by her side on Friday, March 17, 2023.

She was born in New York City on June 9, 1941, the daughter of John and Laura (Triola) Pepple. She was employed in healthcare as an LNA with Green Mountain Nursing home until retirement. Anyone that knew Joyce knew that she did not have a mean bone in her body; she was a kind soul full of love and laughter and lived and worked to see her family, but especially her children, happy. Joyce would move heaven and earth for her loved ones, always putting everyone before herself. 

She leaves her companion, Richard Bordeau; her children: Laura Walker, Clint Walker and his partner, Desiree Fisher; grandchildren: Makayla Yandow and her husband, Adam Yandow, R.J. Cota and his wife, Ashley Cota, Tommy Drogalis and his wife, Danielle Bourbeau Drogalis, along with several great grandchildren and extended family.

Along with her parents, she was predeceased by her daughter, Tina O’Toole, who was Joyce’s first blessing in life.

Joyce’s family would like to thank the University of Vermont Medical Center’s efforts in the year-long battle with dementia in keeping their mother, grandmother, and friend as safe, comfortable, and stable for as long as possible. They would also like to personally thank the family’s social worker, Odessa Kilby-Way, from UVMMC, Eliza LeFevre from Age Well, and Carrie Rae, Addie Chadwick, and Jen Campbell from Bayada Hospice.

Visitation is on Friday, March 24, 2023, from 5-8pm at Elmwood-Meunier Funeral Home, 97 Elmwood Ave., Burlington. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Saturday, March 25, 2023, at 10 am in St. Joseph Cathedral, Burlington. Spring Interment will be in FT. Ethan Allen Cemetery in Colchester at a later date.

Those wishing may send memorial contributions to:

Wounded Warrior Project P.O. Box758516, Topeka, Kansas 66675-8516

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Shelburne, VT – Samuel B Feitelberg, 93, of Shelburne, VT passed away on the night of March 16, 2023 at The McClure-Miller Respite House. The son of Dr. Abraham and Rose Feitelberg, Sam was born in the Bronx, New York in the shadow of Yankee Stadium. His life was shaped by his love for his family and his belief that every human being has the right to strive towards their highest creative potential.

In 1952 Sam earned a Bachelor of Science degree from Columbia University, a Certificate of Physical Therapy from Columbia’s College of Physicians and Surgeons in 1953 and a Masters of Arts from Columbia University Teachers College in 1954.  Sam holds a Certificate of Labor Administration from the Harvard University Graduate School of Business (1980) and an honorary Doctorate of Science degree from Utica College (2015).

From 1954 to 1956, Sam served in the U.S. Army Medical Specialist Corps assigned to Walter Reed Army Hospital as a staff physical therapist.  It was there he was inspired to help move physical therapy into its own professional realm. Discharged in the midst of the polio epidemic, he returned to The Columbia Presbyterian Medical Center as its Chief Pediatric Physical Therapist. He began his academic career in 1959 as an instructor in the Physical Therapy Program at Columbia University. In 1965-1970 he was chairman of Physical Therapy at Downstate Medical Center, SUNY Brooklyn. He then went on to establish and direct two schools of Physical Therapy: The University of Vermont in Burlington (1969-1996) and at the School of Science, Clarkson University in Potsdam, New York (1997-2011).  He was awarded the title of Professor Emeritus at the University of Vermont (1996) and Clarkson University (2011).

Sam was an active member of the American Physical Therapy Association since 1953, serving as president of the Section for Education (1986-89); a member of the Nominating Committee (1986-89); and a member of the Board of Directors (1990-93).  In 1997 he was named as a Catherine Worthingham Fellow by the APTA. He is also the recipient of the Lucy Blair Service Award in 1983, the Vermont Chapter Distinguished Service Award in 1990 and 1997, and the Diversity 2000 Award in 1996.  Sam dedicated himself to strengthening cultural equity, respect, and understanding in his work and personal life.  He worked tirelessly to suffuse diversity ethics and cultural proficiency as part of campus life, physical therapy education, and patient services as essential to developing a responsive and compassionate society.  He created opportunities for young people from marginalized communities to attend schools of physical therapy. His work lives on in the Samuel B. Feitelberg Endowed Scholarship established by Clarkson University to benefit a physical therapy student who share his commitment for service and advocacy for underserved or culturally diverse populations.

Sam’s vision of physical therapy included its application in national and global pursuits. He worked with NASA at the Langley Space Center in Virginia developing programs to assist astronauts performing tasks in a weightless environment.  That research became incorporated into therapy for people with Parkinson’s Disease.

Sam delighted in bringing teams of people together.  He spoke humbly of how much he learned from his patients.  He revered his faculty and found tremendous promise for the future in his students.  His wisdom came from what others taught him through their experiences together.

Some of Sam’s proudest achievements came later in life when in conjunction with Rotary’s Hands To Honduras he helped to establish the Oscar Edgardo Pineda Castro Rehabilitation Center for children in Tela, Honduras. For over 16 years Sam was inspired and forever grateful to the wonderful staff and patients in Tela and to all those that traveled and supported the center and its mission.  In 2007 he was named a Paul Harris Fellow by the Shelburne-Charlotte-Hinesburg Rotary Club. Sam was a devoted Rotarian and treasured the many friendships he made within his Chapter.

Sam also played a pivotal role in the construction of the Shelburne Veterans’ Monument.  He was honored to have participated in this project and loved the camaraderie of his fellow veterans. He treasured Saturday morning fundraising for the Monument under the Veterans’ pop-up tent at the Shelburne Farmers Market. He was extremely grateful to the dedicated committee that helped make the project come to life, and to the town of Shelburne and everyone who contributed to the project. Being a Veteran truly touched his heart.  

Sam enjoyed restoring old boats, cars, houses, and his extraordinary collection of Lionel trains.  A day well spent was sitting by the lake with family and friends at the family’s summer cabin on Lake Champlain.

Sam was fortunate to spend almost 70 years with the love of his life, his wife Gail and their 4 children, Cher, Debbie (Poulin) and son-in-law Tony, Lisa (Davison) and son-in-law Mark and son Michael and daughter-in-law Dana.  Sam’s grandchildren, Kyle Coulam, Adam, Jordan and Sophie Davison, Daniel Feitelberg, along with Lena Biggs, Shane and Shannon Poulin were an endless source of pride for all they have accomplished and the wonderful people they have become. The family will forever miss his wonderful stories, lessons, sense of humor and unconditional love.

Visiting hours for Sam will be held on Saturday, March 25, 2023 from 4:00-6:00pm at Ready Funeral Service, South Chapel, 261 Shelburne Rd, Burlington, VT.

A celebration of Sam’s life will take place later this spring.

We would like to thank the University of Vermont Medical Center and the McClure Miller Respite House for their love, respect, dignity, and excellent medical care.

In lieu of flowers, please consider honoring Sam with a donation to:

Samuel B. Feitelberg Physical Therapy Endowment Scholarship

Clarkson University

8 Clarkson Ave.

Potsdam, New York 13699

The Shelburne Veterans Monument Fund

P.O. Box 88

Shelburne, Vermont 05482

Arrangements have been entrusted to the care of Ready Funeral & Cremation Service.  To send an online condolence to the family please visit www.readyfuneral.com.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Samuel, please visit our floral store.

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Brattleboro, VT – Wells C Cunningham, Sr., 98, formerly of Guilford Street in Brattleboro, died Wednesday, January 25, 2023 at Vernon Green Nursing Home in Vernon, Vermont.

Mr. Cunningham was born in Summit, New Jersey on May 12, 1924, the son of Leon and Josephine (Wells) Cunningham. Wells was raised and educated in Mendham, New Jersey and graduated from Morristown (New Jersey) High School with the Class of 1941.

A veteran of World War II, he enlisted in the U.S. Army in October 1942 and was stationed in the Pacific Theater of Operations during the war, serving in the Air Corps and later the infantry until his honorable discharge from active service in February 1946. Wells attended Marlboro College’s first class on the GI bill and graduated with a diploma in social and political sciences.

Wells Cunningham, a self-proclaimed “Jersey Boy,” was a true Vermonter at heart. Wells moved to Brattleboro soon after his wife Jean Marie Gallup’s death in 1977. He and Jean Marie met at the Brattleboro train station in 1946 when she accompanied a young man from Marlboro College to pick up a new student, Wells Cunningham. Soon after, Jean Marie, accepting an invitation from Wells to a dance on Potash Hill, walked six miles in snowfall from her home on Ames Hill.

Wells and Jean Marie were married at First Congregational Church in West Brattleboro before moving to Connecticut to raise a family. They both acquired master degrees and moved on in life with dual incomes that allowed them to reach their dream of owning a historic home in Newington, Connecticut. Wells initially worked for the American Heart Association in New Britain before his employment with the State of Connecticut Department of Education, working 30 years in the State’s Hartford office as a vocational counselor for veterans. With her degree from Boston College Jean Marie was initially a physical therapist and later became a special education teacher.

Wells was a non-competitive athlete and remained strong and fit throughout his life. He could often be seen in his neighborhood rollerblading and “skinny skiing.” He excelled at ice skating and tennis, and won many trophies in skeet shooting. Wells was an avid bocci player. He was an advocate for the placement of the bocci court across the street at Memorial Park, and acted as a teacher to any passersby interested in learning the sport. At the Brattleboro Tennis Club, he encouraged his grandson in his matches and kept up with his own skills at the backboards when he was in his late eighties.

Wells often reminisced about his days as a young boy growing up in New Jersey in an adult-centered home with his parents, grandparents, and a loving sister ten years his senior. He played jokes to the entertainment of everyone and supported his family during the Great Depression by doing odd jobs around town. Wells maintained clay courts at a tennis club and worked on a chicken farm, often recounting stories about the chickens running around with their heads cut off. Learning about the anatomy of chickens helped him play a trick on his mother. He attached a long thread to a piece of corn and fed it to a chicken. He then announced to his mother that he could make the chicken come to him when called. As he pulled the secret string, the chicken came forward (gagging), at his command. Mom was abashed and proud.

“Wellsy” earned a reputation with locals as an innovator and was sought after for odd jobs. He led the pack in commercial berry picking by cleverly grasping the basket between his thighs and using two hands to move more quickly than others down the rows. “Wellsy” once got himself in a pickle when he told the lady next door that he could sand floors. She left him to it with a sander twice his size. Unwilling to tell her his ruse, he developed a special floor-sander technique that impressed his benefactor so much he received double pay! Wells managed a farmer’s rooster for fights and repaired its injuries if it won. Likely because of these early years Wells had a special place in his heart for chickens. During his life as a family man and well into his early nineties Wells celebrated Easter with a couple chick eggs to raise. In a safe, quiet time when Ford cars were first seen on the streets, Wells left the house in the morning, always finding adventures to tell his folks about at home over dinner (which he, most often, provided).

In his young adult life, Wells worked many occupations while attending Marlboro College. One reminiscence was his story of his “ditch-digging” days, when he and a couple of other young bucks were fixing the roads around the Marlboro College. He also drove a laundry truck in Brattleboro and helped the old ladies who provided boarding for him at their Wilmington home, probably in exchange for their wonderful cooking, of which he often spoke. There was never a complaint from Wells regarding labor. For him, it was more about insight into lessons learned from each job…and the jokes to be had.

Wells devotedly attended the Guilford Fair first attending with his wife’s family, who were auctioneers and callers for the horse- and ox-pulling competitions. Wells never missed a local sugar-on-snow supper, ending each meal with his favorite trick. He intrigued people by quietly stirring syrup in a cup, sneaking peeks at them as if he had some secret…until they just had to ask what was he doing “Oh, you don’t know?”, he would coyly ask before proudly demonstrating the perfect technique. Soon enough, the whole joint would be intensely interested in stirring their own maple cream.

Wells constantly listened to music, often on his headphones as he worked around the yard and garden. He loved opera, classical, and old western music. He enjoyed socializing, and especially the meals at the Brattleboro Senior Center. Wells loved to eat, but never gained extra weight.

Wells had no complaints about his enlistment in the air force, and was not at all homesick as his mother had hoped. He was initially stationed on a base near his hometown. One day, while in training to be a gunner, he asked the pilot to fly over his parents’ house. There, having just left the front yard, were his mother and sister walking down the sidewalk. He waved frantically from his glass-domed gunnery, but they never knew he was in the plane because for some reason, he never told them.

Wells had high regard for his watch, as it was a good memory, but also because it was his favorite story to tell. While he was stationed in Guam, a fellow enlisted man had the innovative idea to make steel wristbands from a downed Japanese plane, Wells forever admired the man and the watch never came off his wrist until a few days before he died. Wells’ many stories about his experiences in war were good memories of adventurous times, not at all about waiting with his buddies for the invasion of Japan- that never happened.

A tribute by the person who Wells loved best, his grandson:

Wells’ experiences as a youth could be written into a memoir with more action than the latest Hollywood movies. Days spent with his childhood friend, Joe Degrassi, and his Italian-American family who offered a culinary and cultural awakening for Wells. Spice was not in Wells’ repertoire, though his grandson loved to offer up such delicacies on occasion. Never turning down a challenge, Wells would gladly accept and partake in the mouthwatering pain that would surely ensue, coughing through a big smile. Wells could be seen at the retreat meadows and ice-skating rink, the gun range, the senior center, biking, rollerblading, at many local restaurants, and especially in his flower gardens. He was known to many in town, and was a true old-world gentleman–a man from a different era who had survived WWII. He experienced the Great Depression and many other disasters but kept his light and laughter.

It’s hard to try and fit the last twenty-eight years of our memories together in a paragraph, but the message at the end is conveyed. Wells was renowned, and will not be forgotten by those he encountered. His neighbors looked out for him as he aged, and his daughter and grandson took care of him in his waning years. He helped raise me and was always kind, gentle, and patient. A wise old wizard with techniques from the old world, he could fix a vacuum, a mower, or any other piece of necessary equipment. Wells was a man who was truly self-sufficient, yet enjoyed the company of anyone without distinction or prejudice. He was a role model not only to me, but also to my friends, who thought he was an amazing man, a true inspiration in the ways of aging gracefully while continuing to pursue passions no matter the cost. He will be greatly missed by all, and his memory will continue on for generations to come.

In keeping with his final wishes, no formal services are scheduled. Wells will be laid to rest in the family lot in Christ Church Cemetery in the Algiers section of Guilford. Friends are welcome to plant a flower for his remembrance in their garden or at his stone under the lilac bush.

For Wells himself, he would want his favorite Robert Frost poem to be shared.

Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening

Whose woods these are I think I know

His house is in the village though;

He will not see me stopping here

To watch his woods fill up with snow.

My little horse must think it queer

To stop without a farmhouse near

Between the woods and frozen lake

The darkest evening of the year.

He gives his harness bells a shake

To ask if there is some mistake.

The only other sound’s the sweep

Of easy wind and downy flake.

The woods are lovely, dark and deep.

But I have promises to keep,

And miles to go before I sleep,

And miles to go before I sleep.

To send flowers to the family of Wells, please visit our floral store.

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Dorset, VT – Robert J Bierwirth, 86, of East Dorset, VT, passed away March 13, 2023 at home surrounded by his family, following a 2 year battle with cancer.

Bob was born in Bennington. VT on February 26, 1937 the son of the late George and Margaret (Dailey) Bierwirth.

He attended school in Rutland, Christ the King School and Mt. Saint Joseph. Bob enlisted in the Navy and served from 1955-1957. He was a life member of VFW Post 6471 in Manchester, VT and several other organizations.

Bob was a member and officer of the North Bennington Fire Department and a member of the Bennington Rural Fire Department. He was employed for several years with Morse and Butler Builders, Inc. He also worked at Bromley Ski Area and headed up all the construction projects. He then became self- employed, along with his son Donald Bierwirth as D&B Builders, Inc, building residential Homes. Bob thoroughly enjoyed all his camping trips with his family and friends, especially spending the winters in Florida, making new friends in his later years.

He enjoyed hunting, fishing and golfing and in his earlier years snowmobiling and motorcycle racing. He also loved dirt car racing and following NASCAR.

Bob is survived by is wife Gloria (Bushee) Bierwirth of East Dorset, to whom he married in East Dorset in 1978, sons Robert Bierwirth (Kris) of North Carolina, Donald Bierwirth (Kathi) of Sunderland, VT and John Bierwirth (Kami) of East Dorset, daughters Diane Kent (John) of Manchester and Robyn Bierwirth of Pittsford, VT, his step-son Brian Lacoste (Deanne) of Sunderland, VT, 13 grandchildren, 12 great grandchildren and several nieces and nephews. A celebration of Life for Bob will be held Sunday April 2, 2023 at 1pm at the VFW Post 6471 Manchester, VT. Graveside services will be held and announced in early summer. If friends desire, memorial gifts in Bob’s memory may be made to the Northshire Rescue Squad, c/o Brewster-Shea Funeral Home P.O. Box 885 Manchester Center, VT 05255.

To send the family personal condolences please visit www.sheafuneralhomes.com.

The family has entrusted arrangements to the care of Brewster-Shea Funeral Home 34 Park Place Manchester center, VT.

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Bennington, Vermont – Marion C Cutler, 103, a resident of Webb Street, passed away Wednesday March 1, 2023, at home surrounded by her family.

Marion was born in Philadelphia, PA on October 11, 1919, the daughter of the late Emil and Florence (Weidemoyer) Schaub and attended local schools.

While visiting a friend in Bennington, she met and eventually married Harold J. Cutler on March 25, 1939, in Philadelphia, PA and with Harold moved to Bennington.

Marion worked for more than 40 years for various manufacturing facilities in Bennington and transitioned to the position of Sales Manager at Montgomery Ward before the store closed in the 1970’s.

Marion was a volunteer Grey Lady at Putnam Memorial Hospital (SVMC) for many years. She was a very dedicated member of St. Peter’s Episcopal Church in Bennington for 50 plus years. She was the Directress of the Altar Guild for decades; the parish sacristy has been renamed ‘Marion Cutler Sacristy’ in her honor. Marion assisted in many fund-raising endeavors for the church; she was a member of the knitting ministry, making prayer shawls that would be blessed and given to the sick, knitting blankets, mittens, hats and scarves for children in need. She also loved to embroider and was an extremely talented seamstress, making a blouse in a moment’s notice.

Marion definitely had a green thumb; her gardens and hanging baskets flourished in her yard and on her porch; she had a habit of tossing any type of seed into the dirt and weeks later tomato plants would appear. She also loved to bake, she baked for family, church teas and charity bake sales, she canned jams, jellies and relishes. She would try new recipes and her family would be on the receiving end of her fruits and labor, we loved everything she created.

She is survived by her children Robert H. Cutler (Charlotte) of Bennington, Kathleen M. Marcoux (Richard) of Bennington, Richard A. Cutler (Deborah) of Bennington, Thomas A. Cutler (Annette) of Woodford, and a daughter-in-law, Kathleen M. Cutler of Woodford, 11 grandchildren and 15 great grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her husband Harold Cutler who passed April 15, 1985, and sons Kenneth J. Cutler November 30, 2004, and H. John Cutler May 19, 1961, and great granddaughter Kaylyn E. Marcoux December 5, 2010.

Marion was loved by so many in the community, especially her entire family. They are better because of her.

The family has entrusted arrangements to the care of Hanson-Walbridge & Shea Funeral Home 213 West Main Street Bennington, VT. Funeral services for Marion will be held at St Peter’s Episcopal Church in Bennington and will be announced at a later date. Interment will be in Woodford Cemetery. There are no visiting hours.

If friends desire, memorial gifts in Marion’s memory may be made to BAYADA Hospice or St. Peter’s Episcopal Church, 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.

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Shaftsbury, VT – John William Hamilton, 83, a resident of Pine Circle in Shaftsbury, VT died Wednesday, March 1, 2023 at his residence following a brief illness.

He was born in Shaftsbury, VT January 15, 1940. He was the son of the late John Hamilton and Edith (Jesperson) Hamilton. John received his education in North Bennington and attended Bennington Catholic High School.

He married Sandra Daniels on May 4, 1968.

In earlier years John worked as a plumber at Tuttles in Bennington and Wade Plumbing and Heating in Shaftsbury. For 32 years John worked at Bennington College, retiring 2002.

He was a member of the American Legion Post 13. A life member of the VFW Post 1332 and a past member of the Bennington Eagles.

John enjoyed trips to the casino, watching wildlife, gardening, hunting and fishing.

Survivors include his wife of 54 years, Sandra Hamilton of Shaftsbury. Two sons, Michael Hamilton (Candy Shores) of Shaftsbury and Shawn Hamilton (Scott Brown) of Attleboro, MA. Four grandchildren, Michael Hamilton (Dana Keus) of Shaftsbury, Bryan Hamilton and Jessica Hamilton both of Fall River and Patrick Watson (Elizabeth Berry) of Swanzey, NH. Five great-grandchildren,a brother, Richard Hamilton (Linda) of Shaftsbury and several nieces, nephews and cousins. He was pre-deceased by two brothers, Robert and James Hamilton.

A celebration of John’s life will be held at the American Legion Post 13 in Bennington on March 12 from 2:00 to 6:00 p.m. Ken Coonradt, a friend of the family will be offering a memorial service at 2:15 p.m.

If friends desire contributions in memory of John W. Hamilton may be made to the Vermont Veterans Home Activities Fund through the office of the Mahar and Son Funeral Home 628 Main St. Bennington, VT 05201.

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