Obituaries
• Mary Jane Bosworth, 77, of Saxtons River. Died peacefully in her sleep on April 26, 2021. Mary Jane was a proud member of the Bellows Falls High School Class of 1961, continuing her education to earn a bachelor's degree in music education from Castleton State College. Mary Jane studied the Kodaly Music Theory in Hungary and taught music in the Rockingham schools for 27 years. Actively involved in her community, Mary Jane served as bell choir director of the Saxtons River Ringers and was very engaged with both the Women's Fellowship of Christ's Church and the Saxtons River Historical Society. She loved travel, gardening, music, and was an avid baker and craft artist. Mary Jane frequently donated her talents to local charities and projects. Mary Jane is survived by her sister, Peggy Tucker of Springfield; her nephew, William M. Bosworth; and her nieces, Katie Brown, Erica Tucker and Heather Cannistraci. She was preceded in death by her parents, Millard and Dorothy Bosworth; and her brother, William H. Bosworth. Memorial information: A memorial service was held at Christ's Church in Saxtons River on May 2, followed by a private interment service in Saxtons River Cemetery. Donations to the Saxtons River Historical Society.
• Katharyn Breshears Trevorrow Boyd, 64, of Putney. Died at home with her husband, Courtney Boyd, by her side on April 18, 2021, after a re-occurrence of cancer. Kathy was born Feb. 11, 1957, in Springfield, Vt., the eldest child of Truman and Virginia Breshears. She grew up in Saxtons River and graduated from Bellows Falls Union High School in 1975. In her youth and young adulthood, Katharyn was an accomplished pianist. She enlisted in the Army and was honorably discharged three years later. She then went on to pursue a degree at Keene State College, where she graduated in the class of 1985 suma cum laude. Kathy worked for several years at a small Chrysler dealership in Bellows Falls, Farr's Garage, alongside her father. Later on, she worked for several years at C&S Wholesale Grocers in Brattleboro, and at Basketville in Putney, where she thought very highly of her colleagues. With her first husband, Charles Trevorrow, she had two sons, Michael and Skylar. Skylar was tragically killed in an accident at the age of 8. Her surviving son lives in Springfield with his companion, Analiese Burge. Katharyn was a fiercely private person but was also one of the most generous. She was devoted to her family and also maintained a wide network of friends, both locally and worldwide digitally. An example of her always far-reaching interest in fellow human beings, she befriended a refugee family from Afghanistan in the mid-1980s and maintained a lifelong connection with them even after they relocated to the West Coast. Home life with Courtney was the center for her and she loved her dogs and various poultry, as well as gardening on her deck and surrounds. In addition to her husband and son, she is survived by her father, Truman Breshears, and siblings Wendy St. Louis and her husband, Richard, Michael Breshears and his partner, Joseph Collins, and Angela Wood and her husband, Gary. Memorial information: A celebration of Kathy's life will be held Saturday, June 12, at 1 p.m., at her father's home in Alstead, N.H.
• Gloria Helen Reuter Buzzell, 88, of Winchester, N.H. Died peacefully on April 24, 2021, with family members near, at the Applewood Rehabilitation Center in Winchester. Gloria was born to Harold and Helen Pflug Reuter in New Hyde Park, N.Y., on Jan. 7, 1933. She graduated from Sewanhaka High School in 1949 and Massachusetts General Hospital School of Nursing in 1953. She married Robert Levenson in 1954 and they had four children. She married David Buzzell in 1981 and they raised his three children. Gloria's world revolved around family, and she dedicated her life to ensuring each member felt her love. She recognized individuality and applauded ambition. She encouraged the pursuit of personal growth and being satisfied with achieving one's personal best. A natural caregiver and lifelong nurse, Gloria's kindness radiated outward to her patients. She had a way of making everyone around her feel valuable. The warmth in her heart was always evident in her smile. Gloria's abiding moral imperative was social equality. Everyone mattered to Gloria. She took care of both the very rich and the very poor and tended to each with compassion. She recognized the inherent dignity of all people, treated everyone with respect, and raised her children to do the same. Gloria is survived by her children: Daniel Levenson and his wife Carolyn of Tampa, Fla., Mark Levenson and his wife Patti of Shrewsbury, Mass., Sharon Levenson and her fiancé Rick Drawert of Guilford, and Lincoln Levenson of Greenville, S.C.; the children she raised with David Buzzell: Roger Buzzell and his wife Pam of Bernardston, Mass., Marie Jarvis and her husband Jack of Wilmington, N.C., and Marilyn Buzzell of Hinsdale, N.H.; her sister Dorothy Shaffer of Norfolk, Va.; and four grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her first husband, Robert Levenson, her second husband David Buzzell, and siblings Jean Bencivenga and Nicholas Reuter. Memorial information: Burial services will be held in Wilmington, N.C., on a date to be announced. Donations to the Applewood Rehab Center Activities Fund, 8 Snow Rd., Winchester, NH 03470.
• Steven Lawrence Chickering, Sr., 61, of West Chesterfield, N.H. Died April 26, 2021 at home, surrounded by his wife and children, after a brave battle with pancreatic cancer. Steven was born on Sept. 23, 1959, to the late Lawrence “Buzz” Chickering and Judith (Martin) Chickering. Steve (a.k.a., Big Steve, Otis, Grampy, and Dad), was a lifelong resident of West Chesterfield. He attended Chesterfield Central School, and graduated from Keene High School in 1977. He was a dedicated and active member of the Chesterfield Fire Department for 39 years, and served for a period of time as a captain. His true love was driving what he defined as “his truck” - Engine 2. Steve was a very versatile man and throughout his career he held many different positions. Most recently, he worked for Tom Call Excavation, DMI, and C.E. Bradley Laboratories. His greatest career accomplishment was owning and operating Steve Chickering Trucking for more than 25 years. He started out with a 1988 Mack dump truck and eventually added another truck that his son drove. During the winter months, he plowed Route 9 from the state line to the bottom of Chesterfield Hill and took great pride in keeping everyone safe. He made many lifelong friends with people he met throughout his career. In 1983, he married the love of his life, Deborah (Kingsbury) Chickering. They built a home together and had two children, Steven Jr. and Megan. He was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. Steve was a genuine person and would do anything for anyone and also didn't hesitate to tell you what he was thinking. He enjoyed riding his Harley, taking trips to Maine with his wife and family, and spending time with his grandchildren. He loved sugaring and making maple syrup with his family. His favorite hobby was cutting firewood for his family and friends. He also truly enjoyed helping his daughter, Megan, with anything she needed at her preschool, but mostly loved visiting the children. He is survived by his wife of 37 years; his children, Steven Chickering, Jr. and his wife, Collette, and Megan Chickering Pratt and her husband, Ryan, all of West Chesterfield; two grandchildren, Cole and Brooke Chickering; and a granddaughter, Magnolia Mae Pratt, due to arrive in June. He is also survived by a sister, Stephanie (Chickering) Choiniere; two sisters-in-law, Doreen (Kingsbury) Rancourt and Darlene (Kingsbury) Trombley; father-in-law and mother-in-law, Durward and Anita (Abbott) Kingsbury; and several nieces, nephews, cousins, and close friends considered family. Memorial information: A celebration of Steven's life was held at the Chickering Family home at 115 Poor Rd. in West Chesterfield on May 1, followed by graveside committal services in Chesterfield West Cemetery. Donations to Chesterfield Fire and Rescue Association, P.O. Box 95, Chesterfield, NH 03443; or Pink Heals, 41 Taylor Rd, Putney, VT 05346 ([email protected]).
• Stephen Arthur “Steve” Goding Sr. 80, of Brattleboro. Died April 27, 2021 at the Jack Byrne Center in Lebanon, N.H., from complications of a stroke that he suffered in March. Steve was born in Arlington, Mass., on Aug. 9, 1940, the son of Albert and Racheal (Witham) Goding. He was raised and educated in Billerica, Mass., graduating from Billerica High School, Class of 1958. Steve moved to Vermont in August 1969. He had a reputation of being one of the finest finish carpenters in the area and had been employed at Douglas Stark Builders for the past 22 years. In his spare time, he was always fixing, repairing or building things for his house, his neighbors, and friends. He loved his workshop and was proud of his creations. Steve was a NASCAR and dirt bike racing enthusiast, and a huge fan of all major Boston sports teams, especially the Red Sox and Patriots. Additionally, he enjoyed puzzles, reading, traveling and working on cars and his home. He especially loved to socialize and has many friends who were dear to him. He was also a devoted family man who cherished time spent with his family. Survivors include one son, Stephen Jr. and wife Debbie of Baltimore, Md.; two daughters, Darlene Goding, also of Baltimore and Amy Goding of Brattleboro; a dear sister, Susan Sullivan and partner Arthur Cirioni of Manchester, N.H.; one brother, Thomas Goding of Maine; five grandchildren and four great-grandsons. He also leaves his ex-wife, Diane Lake, whom he remained close to; his companion, Brenda Riopel of Brattleboro; his best friend of many years, Mark Whitaker; and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and a large host of friends. He was predeceased by daughter, Shirley Goding, son, Wayne Goding, and a brother, David Goding. Memorial information: Graveside committal services will be conducted May 16, at 2 p.m., in West Brattleboro Cemetery. A reception will follow at the Eagles Lodge on Chickering Drive in Brattleboro. Donations to The Jack Byrne Center for Palliative & Hospice Care, 154 Hitchcock Loop Rd., Lebanon, NH 03766.
• Alan Greenspan, 90, of Sanibel, Fla., and Wilmington. Died April 22, 2021 at his home in Florida. Born in Perth Amboy, N.J., on March 10, 1931, Alan was the son of the late Phillip and Serena (Kelsey) Greenspan. He is survived by his beloved wife; Alice (Braverman), daughters Peggy Johansen, Elizabeth Ahle and Randi Greenspan; stepdaughters Melissa (Menashe Ben-David) Laidlaw, Katherine Konner, and Abby (Jim) Robertson; and 13 grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren. Alan graduated from the George School in 1948, earned his undergraduate degree from Washington University in St. Louis, Mo., and his MBA from the Kellogg School at Northwestern University. Drafted in October 1953, he served in the Army's 101st Infantry Division in Korea, and spent nine months in combat intelligence. After serving his country, Alan began his career at LF Rothschild in New York City, starting as an analyst and rising to partner in 1971. He moved to Oppenheimer Co., Inc, and then to Morgan Stanley in the World Trade Center. He was an active Charter Member of the Windows on the World Club until the 9/11 WTC disaster. He retired in 2003. He and Alice bought Sunshine Hill in Wilmington in 1982 and moved permanently to Vermont in 2009. Alan devoted much time and energy to Wilmington's community life - driving for RSVP, joining the Rotary Club and receiving the “Paul Harris Award”for his service. He enjoyed acting in local theater, volunteering with the Friends of Historic Memorial Hall and SCORE (Service Corps of Retired Executives). An active member of Congregation Beth El, Alan advised the Temple on financial investing. He was devoted to his organic vegetable garden, supplying some local restaurants and competing in county fairs. Always the raconteur, Alan will be remembered for his love of a good joke. Memorial information: Graveside funeral services were held May 3 in Riverview Cemetery in Wilmington. Donations to the Rotary Club, Friends of Historic Memorial Hall, or Congregation Beth-El in care of Covey-Allen & Shea Funeral Home, P.O. Box 215, Wilmington, VT 05363.
• William A. “Bill” Junkins, Jr., 67, of Winchester, N.H. Died at home with his devoted wife at his side on April 25, 2021, following a lengthy illness. Bill was born in Malden, Mass., on Feb. 24, 1954, the son of William A. and Mildred (Kane) Junkins. A former resident of Brattleboro, he attended local public schools, including Brattleboro Union High School. He had been employed as a bookbinder at The Book Press/Quebecor Printing (USA) in Brattleboro, which he retired from following more than 35 faithful years with the company. Bill enjoyed the simple things in life and was an accomplished woodworker and carpenter. He enjoyed spending time at his home with his family and was well-known for his generous and giving spirit. In 2018, he married Judith Harris, who survives. Besides his wife, he leaves one brother, Robert Junkins and his wife, Debbie, of Brattleboro; two sisters, Kathy Clark and her husband, Chester, of Winchester and Sheila Cali and her husband, Frank, of East Boston, Mass.; and several nieces, nephews, and a host of close friends. He was predeceased by his parents and his first wife, Deborah A. (Berry) Junkins, who died in 2016. Memorial information: Graveside committal services will be conducted on Friday, May 14, at 11 a.m., in the family lot in Meetinghouse Hill Cemetery in Brattleboro. Donations to the Monadnock Humane Society Shelter, 101 West Swanzey Rd., Swanzey, NH 03446.
• David Frederick Leclaire, 65, of Brattleboro. Died April 22, 2021 at his home, with his daughter and son at his side, following an extended battle with pancreatic cancer. David was born in Brattleboro on Nov. 17, 1955, the son of Leo Paul and Heloise (Giroux) Leclaire. He attended Oak Grove School and was a graduate of Brattleboro Union High School, Class of 1972. He served his country in the Air Force as a fighter jet mechanic. He later returned home to Brattleboro and went to work as a crane operator/mechanic for Winter Panel, Inc. of Brattleboro and, later, for Foard Panel, Inc. of Chesterfield, N.H., where he was employed for 20 years. On a part-time basis, David served as a driver for the Disabled American Veterans' Department of Vermont, making shuttle transports to the VA Medical Center in White River Junction. David was a master craftsman who could repair or engineer anything. He was known as a “jack of all trades” and was eager to share his wealth of knowledge with anyone who desired to learn. Believed by many to be a “machine whisperer,” if Dave couldn't fix it, nobody could. He had a very generous spirit, always willing to help anyone in need and worked diligently to instill that same ethos within his kids. David enjoyed spending weekends (and, after retirement, every day) working on projects for family, friends, and members of our community. He enjoyed golfing with his buddies and his son. He was an excellent pool player, rarely beaten. Survivors include: his two children, Justin D. Leclaire of Lexington, S.C., and Danielle L.E. Leclaire of Brattleboro; two grandchildren, Emma and Charlotte; two brothers, Michael Leclaire (Bridget) of Chesterfield and Steven Leclaire (Nancy) of Brattleboro; two sisters, Linda Goss (Stephen) of Swanzey, N.H., and Donna Traverse of Hinsdale. Additionally, he leaves an aunt, an uncle, and many nieces, nephews, and cousins. Memorial information: A celebration of his ife will be held at Foard Panel in June. His cremated remains will be laid to rest in the Leclaire lot in Morningside Cemetery, where he will be buried next to his parents. Donations to PanCAN (Pancreatic Cancer Action Network) at www.pancan.org or The Wounded Warriors Project at www.woundedwarriorproject.org.
• Dorothy Jean Nelson, 91, of Whitingham. Died peacefully on April 27, 2021 at the home of her daughter and son-in-law, Rebekah and Brian Green, where she had been residing. The daughter of Wilson and Lydia (Milner) Robinson, she was born in Sault St. Marie, Mich., on Oct. 10, 1929. She graduated from Minnesota Bible College with a B.A. in sacred literature. She married Walter Nelson in 1953; he died in 1975. Dorothy had worked at Cannon Falls (Minn.) High School and raised her seven children. She moved to Vermont in 1988. She was always willing to help her family wherever she was needed. She was “Grandma” to all, and affectionately known as “Miss Dorothy.” She was a caregiver to her children, grandchildren, relatives, and friends. She enjoyed sewing, raising many vegetables in her gardens, canning those vegetables, and sharing them. Dorothy was always encouraging to others. Her sweetest love was to lend a kind smile to heal a hurt and to serve in congregations from the Midwest to the East Coast. She leaves her children: Daniel W. Nelson (Marcia) of Wilmington, Susan E. Merrill (Russell) of Winchester, Va., James A. Nelson (Janice) of Wasilla, Alaska, Rebekah A. Green (Brian) of Whitingham, Joseph C. Nelson of Omaha, Neb., and Andrew J. Nelson (Nancy) of Groesbeck, Texas; 16 grandchildren, 21 great-grandchildren, and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins. She was predeceased by her parents, five brothers and a sister, and a grandson, Zachary Taylor. Memorial information: Funeral services were held May 1 at at Covey Allen & Shea Funeral Home. She will be buried, with her husband Walter, in the family lot in Cannon Falls Cemetery. Donations to St. Jude's Children's Hospital, in care of Covey Allen & Shea Funeral Home, P.O. Box 215, Wilmington, VT 05363.
• Jada Marie Spaulding Doyle, 16, of Rockingham. Died April 25, 2021 from injuries sustained in an automobile accident in Putney. Jada was born Sept 23, 2004 to her loving mother, Christine Spaulding of Rockingham and her father, Robert Doyle of Walpole, N.H. Jada loved people, children, her friends. She was known for her infectious smile, the ability to light up a room. A standout both academically and athletically at Bellows Falls Union High School, Jada was beloved by her teachers, coaches, and all who knew her. Jada's love of children and helping others in need guided her towards the pursuit of pediatrics, a career path she had chosen at a very early age. She always wanted her mother and grandmother to adopt foster children in need since she was a young child, a big heart who always wanted to give more. Active in sports all of her life, she participated in field hockey, basketball, and softball. She played her first softball game of the season the day before her accident, starting at second base and hitting cleanup, celebrating afterwards with ice cream with cousins and friends. She, like her mother and grandmother, was passionate about her outdoor activities including salt water fishing in Maine and Nantucket Island, and scuba diving at numerous exploration sites. She loved to hike Fall Mountain regularly to take sunset photos with her friends. Her adventurous spirit was ever evident on one Colorado hiking trip when she and her grandmother got reprimanded by park services for making their own hiking trail by GPS. Jada's love also extended to her pets; her horses were much loved by her and her friends. As a child, she was an actress in many plays at New England Youth Theater and planned to go see Hamilton as soon as Covid allowed. She attended many live music concerts and plays in Boston and New York City and could be heard singing great car karaoke. Jada was a kind and loving soul who was a positive influence on those around her. She loved deeply, and was given that same love by her family and friends. She leaves a deep hole in the hearts of her loved ones and the community as a whole. Jada was predeceased by her loving mother, Christine Spaulding in 2018, her grandfather, Norwood Spaulding and her great-grandfather Edward Rougeau and cousin Chad Amidon. She is survived by her grandmother and guardian Annette Spaulding; aunts and uncles Julie and Michael Spaulding, Janet and Dave Queen, and June and Chuck Aleck; her great-grandmother Joan Rougeau; her father Robert Doyle and his daughter Katey and son Brendan; and many other caring aunts, uncles, and cousins. Memorial information: A celebration of Jada's life will be held Sunday, May 23, from 2 to 5 p.m., at Alyson's Orchard in Walpole, N.H. Donations to The Jada Spaulding Scholarship Fund, which will be given annually to a BFUHS student, in care of Mascoma Bank, P.O. Box 2, Walpole, NH 03608.
• Gloria Reynolds, 100, of Brattleboro. Died after a period of declining health at Pine Heights in Brattleboro. She was born on Nov. 3, 1920 in Newfane to the late Raymond Chester and Elizabeth Longfellow and was a lifelong resident in Brattleboro. She was educated in the Brattleboro school system and married Edward Reynolds in 1941. She became a hairdresser at her family's salon, Longfellow Beauty Salon, while raising her family. She later worked at The Book Press and retired in 1982 after 10 years. She is predeceased by her sister Dorothy in 2009 and her sister Ruth in 2001. She is survived by her youngest daughter, Bette Reynolds of Brattleboro, and her son Edward Reynolds. Memorial information: None provided.
• Elmer Thomas “Tom” Topitzer Jr., 90, of Newfane. Died April 26, 2021 at his home, following a brief illness. He was born in Bristol, Conn., on Feb. 8, 1931, the son of Elmer Thomas and Mary (Barrett) Topitzer. He was raised and educated in Springfield, Mass., graduating from Cathedral High School with the Class of 1949. He went on to attend the University of Massachusettes at Amherst, where he earned a B.S. in Engineering. He proudly served his country in the Marine Corps during the Korean Conflict and, following his military service, he returned home and went to work for Pratt & Whitney in East Hartford, Conn., as an engineer. He later worked as a sales manager for KV Realty & Construction Company and, later, as a sales representative for Avis in Enfield, Conn. He permanently retired in the early 1980s to his country home in Newfane, which he designed and constructed with his family. The house was initially built as a camp, with construction starting in 1965 with many additions throughout the years. With his wife, Sally, whom he married in 1959, Tom was a member of the Newfane Congregational Church. he loved vintage and classic cars and is credited with restoring a 1931 Ford Model A coupe, spending years locating original parts for the car. He also enjoyed woodworking in his shop, gardening, and puttering around his home. First and foremost, Tom was a faithful and devoted husband and loving father, grandfather, and great-grandfather who enjoyed time with his family. Besides his wife of nearly 62 years, he leaves two daughters, Mary Turek of Long Island, N.Y., and Kathy Segar of Mesa, Ariz., seven grandchildren, two great-grandchildren ,and several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by a son, Mark Topitzer, in 2016, and his beloved Doberman “Moose” in 2020. Memorial information: In keeping with his final wishes, graveside services in Williamsville Cemetery will be for the immediate family only. Donations to Newbrook Fire & Rescue, P.O. Box 77, Newfane, VT 05345.
• Robert L. “Bob” Valenti, 76, of Keene, N.H., formerly of Brattleboro. Died peacefully April 28, 2021 in the comfort of his home, with his loving wife at his side, following a period of declining health. He was known for his infectious smile and his kind and compassionate spirit. Bob was born in New York City on Jan. 15, 1945, the son of Walter and Helen (Swain) Valenti. He was raised and educated in Oceanside, graduating from Oceanside High School with the Class of 1963. He proudly served his country in the Army, enlisting in 1963 and serving three years during the Vietnam War. Bob had been employed by the Windham Southeast Supervisory Union working as a paraprofessional at Academy School in West Brattleboro. Before joining the faculty at Academy School, he worked as a courier for the former Vermont National Bank. Previously, with his wife, Maryann, whom he married in 1973, he owned and operated Avenue Answering Service, and the Public Market, both in Brattleboro. While residing in New York, Bob was employed as a fundraiser for Community Counseling Services, a capital campaign company, and was active with a major capital campaign for St. Michael's Roman Catholic Church in Brattleboro. A faithful and devoted husband, Bob was a dedicated father and grandfather first and foremost. He treasured his time and embraced every moment with them. Bob's life centered around his family, willing to do anything for anyone at a moment's notice. He enjoyed vacations to the beaches in Maine and Florida, dinners and outings with close friends. As long as he was surrounded by family and friends, that was all that mattered. He will be remembered for his humility, kindness, and love for all. His love and kindness was contagious and felt the moment you met him. A devout Catholic, Bob was a communicant at St. Michael's. Besides his wife of 48 years, survivors include two daughters, Lauren Compere and her husband, Jackson, of Medford, Mass., and Christina Edaugal and her husband, Michael, of West Chesterfield, N.H.; one son, Gregory Valenti of Brattleboro; one sister, Lorraine Costantino and her husband, Dimmy, of Live Oaks, Fla.; four grandchildren and several loving nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by one son, David Valenti, and a sister, Barbara Tudda. Memorial information: A funeral Mass was held May 5 at St. Michael's Roman Catholic Church, with committal rites and burial with full military honors in the Valenti family lot in Meetinghouse Hill Cemetery. Donations to Home Healthcare Hospice and Community Services, 312 Marlboro St., Keene, NH 03431; or St. Brigid's Kitchen, 38 Walnut St., Brattleboro, VT 05301.
• Bernard Patrick “Bernie” Wells, 68, of Newfane. Died at his home, with his family at his side, on April 21, 2021. A Saint Patrick's Day baby, he was born on March 17, 1953 to Ernest Stuart and Ann (Moore) Wells in Westfield, Mass. Bernie was one of seven children and had the good fortune of having strong ties with all his siblings and their children his entire life. They include Thomas (Donna) of Greenville S.C., Martha (John) of Vernon, Steven (Brenda) of St. Johnsbury, James of Bennington, Mary and Mark Speno of Brattleboro, and Patricia Duff of Brattleboro. Bernie lived his life to its fullest. He excelled as an athlete and was very well-known for his achievements in ski jumping, for his fishing expertise, and his time on the golf course. He loved children and developed many lifelong relationships by coaching and instructing them in skiing, golfing, fishing and baseball. He was the life of every party and was known for his storytelling, imitations, and ability to light up the dance floor. Neil Young and Willie Nelson were among his favorite artists and he would spend many hours writing his own songs to play on the guitar. In 1979, he married Marcia Rounds in Brattleboro. They were gifted with two children, Beth (Darin) of Rawsonville and Jeff (Brent) of New York, N.Y., as well as three grandchildren - Avery, Mackson, and Benjamin - who were his everything. Bernie was special to many and treasured all the adventures he had during his life with his family and friends. Memorial information: There will be a celebration of Bernie's life when COVID-19 restrictions allow for larger gatherings. Donations to the Harris Hill Junior Nordic Program, P.O. Box 8284, Brattleboro, VT 05304, or Brattleboro Area Hospice/Early Care Program, 191 Canal St., Brattleboro, VT 05301.