College news
• The following local students received associate degrees at Community College of Vermont's commencement ceremony held on June 4: Shaylyn Rose Burke and Jillian Blair Woodard of Bellows Falls; Christopher J. Ashley, Alison K. Cornellier, James R. Duca, and Stevie-Tao M. Roberts of Brattleboro; Tina Marie Bills of Brookline; Jessica L. Ostrander of Jacksonville; Katrina Marie Fleck and Evadney Taylor of Londonderry; Benjamin Bernard Boyarko and Benjamin Howe of Putney; Leigh T. Nance of South Londonderry; Rebecca Ashley Bird of Vernon; Cindy L. Douglass and Ryan E. Jennings of Westminster; and Jeremy L. Betit and Sarah M. Sprague of Whitingham.
• The following local students received degrees at Castleton University's 229th commencement on May 7: McKenzie Bover of Brattleboro, cum laude with a B.A. in psychology; Kamelia Crawford of Saxtons River, B.S. in sports administration; Matthieu Fortier of South Londonderry, magna cum laude with a B.A. in psychology; Callie Ginter of Townshend, cum laude with a B.S. in communication; Eric Ginter of Townshend, magna cum laude with a B.A. in global studies; Ryan Haselton of South Londonderry, magna cum laude with a B.S. in computer information systems; Colby Hescock of Brattleboro, magna cum laude with a B.A. in mathematics, and Samuel O'Brien of Brattleboro, A.S. in nursing.
• Aaron Bos-Lun, son of Michelle and Ron Bos-Lun of Westminster, has completed four years working as an educator at Homestead High School in Miami-Dade school district in Florida, and is moving back to the Northeast to attend Harvard. He will enroll in a graduate program in education policy.
• Jennifer A. Spero of Londonderry and Beau Doucette of Wilmington were both named to the Dean's List for the spring 2016 semester at the University of Rhode Island.
• Erica Lynn Cutts of Townshend was named to the Dean's List for the spring 2016 semester at Anderson (S.C.) University.
• Kellie J. Schiller, a BUHS alumna who completed her junior year at the University of Denver, was recently named to the Dean's List for the spring 2016 semester. She is a biological science major with a concentration in cognitive neuroscience with a double minor in chemistry and psychology.
• Matthew Schultz of Brattleboro was named to the Dean's List for the spring 2016 semester at Quinnipiac University in Hamden, Conn.
• Rachel Greenberg and James Moore, both of Saxtons River, were named to the Dean's List for the spring 2016 semester at the University of Hartford in West Hartford, Conn.
School news
• Jeremy Lackey, an 11th-grader from Brattleboro, was named Windham Regional Career Center's May Student of the Month. It was Sam Rowley, Jeremy's Horticulture and Landscaping instructor, who recommended him for this honor. Rowley has been impressed with Jeremy in a number of areas. “Jeremy has a good rapport with both his teachers and fellow students. He's always willing to help others and to take on new, challenging projects for himself. He works as independently as he can while he works hard to gain new skills.” Lackey said, “I've loved my Career Center's courses because they're hands on and I learn much easier that way.” He has, additionally, gained direct work experience in the automotive field through a community-based learning program at the high school. He is scheduled next year to take the Career Center's advanced automotive courses: Automotive Sub Systems and Automotive Electrical Systems. He plans to pursue further education in the automotive field, perhaps at Ohio Technical College, when he graduates next year. He credits his Career Center coursework, his experience working at a local garage, and all that he's learned from his father regarding automotive repair, as the motivators in helping him to reach this decision.
• Oak Meadow senior Zlatomir Fung has been named a 2016 U.S. Presidential Scholar, one of the most prestigious honors for high school students in the nation. The White House Commission on Presidential Scholars, appointed by President Barack Obama, annually selects 161 finalists from a pool of over 5,000 eligible candidates. Fung, a world-class cellist from Westborough, Mass., and winner of several national and international competitions, enrolled in Brattleboro-based Oak Meadow's distance learning school in 2012 so he could devote more time to his music. Along with his coursework at Oak Meadow, he has studied at several music institutions and academies; performs solo and with various orchestras and symphonies; and is an avid chamber music player. His academic interests are philosophy and literature, and he also competes in chess.
Obituaries
• Samuel E. Bunker, 89, of Dummerston. Died June 10 at his home. He was born in Yonkers, N.Y. on August 6, 1927 as the third and youngest child of Harriet and Ellsworth Bunker. After spending his early childhood on the Upper East Side of Manhattan, he moved to a farm his parents had purchased in Dummerston (currently known as the Bunker Farm). He would eventually enroll in The Putney School, Class of 1945. He subsequently attended Yale University following a one year tour in the Army as an MP during the end of World War II. After graduating from Yale in 1950, he returned to Vermont, where he ran the Bunker Farm for many successful years. In 1962, he began his international career with the Ford Foundation's Third World development program. He was posted to New Delhi, India, where he served as assistant station chief until 1968. After returning to the U.S., he earned a Master of Public Administration degree from Harvard University. He continued working as a program advisor for the Ford Foundation until 1972 when he was stationed in Beirut, Lebanon. Within a year he was appointed regional director of the Middle East and transferred to Cairo, Egypt, from 1973 to 1976. He then returned to New York City for one year, finishing his tenure with the Ford Foundation as deputy director of the Middle East and Africa. The next phase of his professional career brought him to Washington, D.C., as the director for the international division of the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association. During that time he traveled extensively throughout the world and was instrumental in bringing electricity to rural areas in Bangladesh, Indonesia, and sub-Saharan Africa. He eventually retired in 1990 after 12 distinguished years with the NRECA. As a tribute, he was inducted into the Cooperative Hall of Fame in 1992, honoring his decades of outstanding service to the international community. His commitment to the world's underserved and poor was further evident through his participation on multiple boards. He serred as vice chair of Care International, chairman of the Cooperative Housing Foundation, President of the Philippine-American Foundation, trustee for World Learning, and board member for Aid to Artisans. Although his generosity, compassion, and commitment to helping those in need were his life's mission and legacy, he also had a less serious and playful side. He always appreciated a good joke, enjoyed driving his Mustang convertible while wearing a baseball cap and faux ponytail, and was an avid collector of any and all John Deere paraphernalia. He also took his Martinis very seriously: vodka, shaken, including Spanish olives, preferably with pimentos. In his younger years, he was an avid skier and, along with his brother, started the Yale ski team. He was proud to point out how he broke his nose twice while ski jumping, and was a veteran of Brattleboro's own Harris Hill ski jump. Also in his earlier years he obtained his private pilot's license, flying Piper Cubs and Cessnas throughout New England, Florida, and Alaska. He even flew while in India, where he was once “escorted” by the Indian Air Force after wandering a bit too close to the disputed Pakistani border. He is preceded in death by his first wife Margery (nee Laub), his brother John, and son Stephen. He is survived by his second wife Virginia L. (nee Self) of Dummerston, sister Ellen Bunker of Tucson, Ariz., daughter Jennifer Bunker of South Hero, and son James Bunker of Brattleboro. He is also survived by five grandchildren, three great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews. MEMORIAL INFORMATION: A memorial service to honor his life will be held in the fall at a date and place to be announced.
• Edwin Howard Carter, 89, of Vernon. Died June 13. Born to the late Harvey and Hazel (Carvell) Carter in Mapleton, Maine, on March 4, 1927, he graduated from Mapleton High School in 1945. Following graduation, he entered the Army and was sent to Italy to assist in the return of prisoners of war to Germany at the end of World War II. Upon discharge from the service, he attended Aurora (Ill.) College and New England School of Theology in Boston. He married his sweetheart, Mary E. Parks of Washburn, Maine, in 1949. Ordained in the Advent Christian denomination. he served churches in Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, and Nova Scotia with ministry extending to a children's camp in Virginia, Camp ACCOVAC, as well as manager of Vernon Hall in Vernon. He was predeceased by his brother, Gerald Carter. He is survived by his wife; their four sons, Paul Carter and his wife, Glennis of Stockholm, Maine; William Carter and his wife Barbara of Duxbury; Philip Carter and his wife, Gloria, of South Portland, Maine; and Calvin Carter of Redmond, Ore.; as well as eight grandchildren, 10 great-grandchildren, and many special friends. MEMORIAL INFORMATION: A celebration of life was held June 21 at Vernon Advent Christian Church, with burial at Tyler Cemetery in Vernon. Donations to Vernon Homes, 61 Greenway Dr., Vernon, VT 05354, or Camp ACCOVAC, c/o C J Nicely, 625 Frontier Way, Fincastle, VA 24090. Condolences may be offered at www.kerwesterlund.com.
• Laura E. Dix, 89, of Wilmington. Died June 9 at Vernon Green Advent Christian Home. Born in Huntington, Mass., on Oct. 4, 1926, the daughter of the late Leon and Florence M. (Greenleaf) Ellis, she was educated in Wilmington schools, graduating from Whitingham High School, Class of 1944. She worked as a final inspector for G. S. Precision, both in Wilmington and Brattleboro. In her earlier years, she enjoyed being outdoors, especially camping and snowmobiling. She enjoyed painting and took painting classes for many years. She cherished times spent with her family, especially her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She is survived by her children: Lorraine Saunders and her husband, Douglas, of Wilmington; Candace Dix and her fiance, Bruce Fuller, also of Wilmington; and Charles Dix and his wife, Terry, of Whitingham; eight grandchildren, 16 great-grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her son, Randall Dix, and her seven siblings. MEMORIAL INFORMATION: Graveside funeral services were held June 14 at Riverview Cemetery in Wilmington. There were no visiting hours. Donations to the Viet-Nam Veterans of Vermont, in care of Covey-Allen & Shea Funeral Home, P.O. Box 215, Wilmington, VT 05363.
• Wilfred G. Greenia, 87, of Hinsdale, N.H. Died June 12 after an extended illness. Husband of Esther Greenia for 55 years. Father of Michael and Steven Greenia. He served his country in the Army from 1951 through 1956. He was employed at DeWitt Beverage for 20 years until his retirement. He then worked at Wal-Mart as a greeter. Standing six feet tall and only 130 pounds, his nickname of “Chubby” brought numerous smiles to those he met. His gentle, caring personality will be remembered by his family and friends for years to come. MEMORIAL INFORMATION: A funeral service was held June 18 at the Brattleboro Eagles Club. Donations to help assist the family may be sent to Esther Greenia in care of Ker-Westerlund Funeral Home, 57 High St., Brattleboro, VT 05301. Condolences may be offered at www.kerwesterlund.com.
• James “Howie” Howard, 68, of Putney. Died June 8 at his home following a courageous battle with cancer. He was born in Brattleboro on Sept. 29, 1947, the son of the late Mary and Wilmont Howard Sr. He was a graduate of Brattleboro Union High School, Class of 1965, and remained active with his classmates for over 50 years. He was a friend to all who knew him and will never be forgotten. He owned the Quarter Moon Restaurant in Brattleboro, a grocery store in West Brattleboro, and many rental buildings in the area. His homestead in Putney was his final endeavor and one for which he was most proud. He harvested trees from his land, milled them into lumber, designed and then built his home, an architectural work of art where he was able to live out his life in comfort as “Howie on the Hill.” He was a Navy veteran and a member of the American Legion. He was easy going and always had a joke to cheer you up and an opinion to offer, even if different from the majority-or maybe because it did differ from the majority. He loved gardening and just hanging out with friends. He is survived by his son, Jesse; a sister, Nancy, both of whom stayed by his side from beginning to end; her partner, Bill Chase; a brother, Wilmont Howard, Jr. and his wife Mary; a stepdaughter, Brandy; as well as four grandchildren; a niece and nephew; two grand-nieces and one grand-nephew. In his own words, Howie would like to thank everybody who was in his life, be it for business or for pleasure. All contributed to his rich and full life. MEMORIAL INFORMATION: A celebration of his life will be held at his home at a later date. Donations to the Eagles, the VFW, American Legion or the BUHS Class of '65. Or simply live your life each day to its fullest, much the same as he did, because, as he liked to say, “life is way too short to waste even a single day.” Condolences may be offered at www.kerwesterlund.com.
• Fred Rappaport, 68, of Hilton Head Island and Charleston, S.C. Died June 14, following a three-year battle with esophageal cancer. Born April 20, 1948 in Santa Margherita, Italy, to an American father and an Italian mother, he arrived in New York City and began his life as a “New Yorker” at the age of 2 1/2. He was predeceased by his parents, George Rappaport and Clelia “Lia” Bernardini Rappaport, and by a twin brother in infancy. He is survived by his wife of 43 years, Joyce Snyder Rappaport, by his younger brother Claude (Lindy) Rappaport of Oklahoma City, numerous Snyder in-laws, and many cousins, nieces, a nephew, grand-nephews and a grand-niece. He attended Barnard and Horace Mann Schools in NYC, where he was on the baseball team and played several other sports. He attended Adelphi University, and Kean University, obtaining a B.S. in management sciences/accounting. He served in Vietnam as an Air Force F-4 fighter pilot, and was wounded in action. Upon his return to the States, he worked in Boston, where he met his wife and formed lifelong friendships, and then returned to New York as production engineer/vice president in his family's apparel manufacturing business on Seventh Avenue. In 1984 he and his wife moved to southeastern Vermont, where they resided for 20 years. There he was owner/operator (and, for a few years, chef) of several restaurants in Brattleboro (Taft's, Giovanni's and The Outback Saloon). His years in the restaurant business offered him an amazing and valued opportunity to befriend individuals from all walks of life. He later started a small business consulting firm, Associated Management Services, Inc. In 2003, he semi-retired and moved to Hilton Head Island, continuing to consult part-time. Throughout his career, he touched many lives and he was a mentor to many. He was an avid and unwavering fan of the Giants and the Yankees. He also played tennis and took up skiing. In later years, he devoted his free time to golf. He enjoyed cooking, driving his Porsches, listening to Sinatra, and discussing politics, religion, and sports. His favorite place to travel was the Italian Riviera, where he loved spending time with his Italian family. Those who truly knew Fred will remember his candor and irrepressible passion for life, his love of God and country, his generous spirit, and his ability to inspire. MEMORIAL INFORMATION: A memorial service will be held at John Wesley United Methodist Church, 626 Savannah Highway, Charleston S.C., on Saturday, June 25 at 2 p.m. He will be interred in the Bernardini family mausoleum in Santa Margherita, Italy. Donations to the American Cancer Society.
• Marilyn E. (French) Rogers, 87, of Hinsdale, N.H., formerly of Brattleboro. Died June 6 at her home after a period of declining health. Wife of the late Harold E. Rogers Jr. for 50 years. Mother of Cherylee Monmaney and her husband, Bill, of Hinsdale; Jonni Aguirre and her husband, Javier, of Yorktown, Va.; Robin Heald and her husband, Randy, of Hinsdale; Scott Rogers and his wife, Reenie, of Keene, N.H.; and Gary Rogers and his wife, Kathy, of Brattleboro. Sister of Beverly Benoir of Putnam, Conn., and the late Meriden, Ralph and Clifton French. Also survived by 11 grandchildren, 10 great-grandchildren, cousins, nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends. Born in Warren, the daughter of the late Hazel (Allen) and Lee French, on July 16, 1928. She was educated in Randolph and Northfield, and graduated from Northfield High School, Class of 1947. She worked at Brattleboro Memorial Hospital as a switchboard operator for six years. Prior, she had worked at the A&P in Brattleboro as the produce manager. She was also a switchboard operator for AT&T for many years. She was a former member of the Congregational Church in Brattleboro. Time was spent reading, knitting, doing puzzles and word searches. Friday night was “Mom Night.” Children and grandchildren were welcome for dinner and games. She had many board and card games on hand and, with a great amount of humor, she was a fierce competitor. In her younger years, she enjoyed fishing and hunting. She was also community-oriented, spending time at the hospital as a volunteer in the business office. MEMORIAL INFORMATION: In keeping with her wishes, all services will be private. Burial will take place in the family lot at Pleasant View Cemetery in Randolph. Donations may be sent to your local hospice provider.
• Sterling S. Saunders, 90, formerly of Brattleboro. Died June 7 at the Golden Living Center in Norwood, Mass. Born in Westminster on April 28, 1926, he was the son of the late Henry J. and Eva I. (Hutchinson) Saunders. He grew up in Prospect, Conn., and resided in Brattleboro for many years. He proudly served in the Navy for three years during World War II. Before his retirement, he worked as an upholsterer in the office supply repair industry for many years. He was a member of American Legion Post5 in Brattleboro. He was predeceased by his daughter, Betty Jean Potts, and is survived by a stepdaughter, Sandra Streeter, of Port Richey, Fla. He is also survived by five brothers, Richard Saunders of Lake George, N.Y., Sherman Saunders of Vernon, Randall Saunders of Danbury, Conn., Dennis Saunders of Waterbury, Conn., and David Saunders of Cleveland, Ga.; two sisters, Linda Russo of Medway, Mass., and Suzette Pelkey of Northfield, Conn. MEMORIAL INFORMATION: A graveside service was held June 18 at New Pine Grove Cemetery in Waterbury, Conn.
• Trudy Busch Schultz, 88, of Skillman, N.J. Died May 14 at her home. A loving wife, mother and grandmother, supporter of the arts, gardener, and inspiring cook, she was born Nov. 22, 1927, the daughter of Charlotte Ising Busch and Hermann Busch, who was the cellist in the Busch Quartet, one of the most prominent chamber music ensembles of the 20th century. The family lived in Essen and Stuttgart, Germany, before moving to Basel, Switzerland, in 1933 to escape the Nazi regime. The Busch parents and daughter emigrated to the United States in June 1940, sailing on the SS Washington from Lisbon, Portugal, narrowly escaping a hostile encounter with a German U-Boat. The family lived in New York and Pittsburgh. She attended Barnard College where she graduated with a bachelor's degree in fine art. In 1950, Trudy took a job with the furniture company Knoll, where she worked in the Planning Unit and met the young furniture designer, Moses Richard Schultz. The two were married in 1953, and later settled in the rural hills of Barto, Pa., where they lived for many years, raising four children and creating a peaceful haven for family and friends. Her lovingly tended vegetable and flower gardens nourished and inspired. She carried her love of music and design through her whole life. The family spent summers in Marlboro, Vt., where they were enthusiastic supporters and audience members of the Marlboro Music Festival, which was co-founded by her father and other members of the Busch family, with pianist Rudolph Serkin and the Marcel, Blanche and Louis Moyse family. At home in Pennsylvania, Trudy gave generously to those around her. She brought a gentle, graceful touch to everything she did there and in Brattleboro, where they lived for the last decade before their move in March 2016 to Stonebridge at Montgomery in New Jersey. She is survived by her husband and three sons, Peter, David and Steven Schultz and four grandchildren. Their daughter, Monica, died in 2006. MEMORIAL INFORMATION: Memorial donations may be made to Marlboro Music Festival (www.marlboromusic.org) or to any community charity.
• Friends and acquaintances are invited to an open house in remembrance of the life of Robert Bruce “Bob” Bartlett at the home of his mother, Augusta Bartlett, 979 South Rd, in Marlboro on Saturday, June 25, from 1 to 5 p.m. This is an opportunity to share memories and stories with his family, plus take home a piece of memorabilia from Mr. Bartlett's extensive railway and historic book collection. Refreshments will be served. Mr. Bartlett died Jan. 24, 2016, at his home in Putney. To view a full obituary, visit www.atamaniuk.com.