Obituaries
• Sharon R. (Vesper) Elwell, 80, of Vernon. Died at Brattleboro Memorial Hospital Dec. 10, 2025. She was born in Boston on Feb. 26, 1945, the daughter of Herman and Margaret (Lehane) Vesper. Sharon attended local schools in Brattleboro and was a graduate of St. Michael’s Catholic High School, Class of 1963. Sharon enjoyed being a day care provider for many years. She truly loved spending time with her family and friends. Among her survivors, Sharon leaves her son, Mark Elwell of Brownington, Vermont; a sister, Mary Vesper of Vernon; two brothers, Richard Vesper of Brattleboro and Gerald Vesper of North Carolina; two granddaughters, Meredith Boone and Allison Mathis; two great-grandsons, Asher and Issac; and several nieces and nephews. Memorial information: A funeral Mass will be held Friday, Dec. 19, at 10:30 a.m. at St. Michael’s Catholic Church, 47 Walnut St., Brattleboro. Burial will follow at Mater Dolorosa Cemetery in Greenfield, Massachusetts. Calling hours will be held Thursday, Dec. 18, from 4 to 6 p.m., at the Kostanski Funeral Home, 220 Federal St., Greenfield. To offer condolences, visit kostanskifuneralhome.com.
• David W. “Scotty” Kennedy, 91, of Brattleboro. Died peacefully Dec. 9, 2025. A devoted husband, father, and friend to many, David will be remembered for his boundless optimism, colorful storytelling, and an enterprising spirit that defined a life well lived. Born on November 27, 1934, in Glasgow, Scotland, David grew up against a backdrop of post-war resilience and community — a spirit he carried with him throughout his life. In 1956, he married his lifelong partner, Margaret. Their marriage spanned an extraordinary 69 years, centered on love, laughter, and a shared sense of adventure. Always ready for a new venture, David began his journey abroad when he and Margaret left Scotland in 1957 to start a new life in Montreal, Canada. David’s talents as a machine tool rebuilder soon gained attention across borders. In 1966, an American firm recruited him to Cranston, Rhode Island, where the Kennedy family settled and David’s inventive mind thrived. A man unafraid to pursue new paths, he later became Assistant Vice President of manufacturing at Anson’s Jewelry in 1970 — just one of the many careers that showcased his versatility. In 1978, David and Margaret moved to Bellows Falls, where they purchased the Hetty Green Motel. The couple became known for their warmth and generosity, welcoming guests from all over the world, including train enthusiasts who came to explore Steamtown. Hospitality came naturally to both of them; their motel became a home away from home for many. Never one to sit still, David began a limousine service in 1983, chauffeuring passengers to Boston’s Logan Airport in his beloved 1979 Lincoln. Years later, he and Margaret traded business life for the open road, selling their motel and setting out across the country in their Lincoln towing an Airstream camper. Their entrepreneurial energy continued when, in 1987, they opened “Scotty’s Place,” a cozy restaurant in Newfane. Margaret led the kitchen while David cheerfully manned the dishwasher and greeted guests with his trademark humor and quick wit. Later, in 1990, they became condominium managers at the Delmar on Gulfshore Boulevard in Naples, Florida, where they developed a vibrant community of friends and residents who adored them. David and Margaret returned to Vermont in 2022 to be closer to family — his children, Sheena Gleason, Graham Kennedy, and Andy Kennedy; and grandchildren David and Camron Kennedy, and Ross Gleason. To all who knew him, David was a jack of all trades and a master of compassion. He was always willing to help others, whether with a handy fix, a good laugh. or an encouraging story. David’s legacy of curiosity, humor, and kindness will forever remain in the hearts of those he touched. Though his hands have found rest, the echoes of his laughter and love endure in every life he brightened. Memorial information: None provided.
• Gordon James Nash, 81, of South Charlestown, New Hampshire. Died peacefully at home on Dec. 5, 2025. Born Sept. 9, 1944, Gordon was a lifetime resident of South Charlestown. Gordon was predeceased by his parents, Stillman Nash and Edith (Sawyer) Nash, and by one grandchild. Gordon’s surviving family includes his wife, Diane Buzby; a daughter, Tina Nash; a son, Nick Nash; a stepson, Ray Leonard; and four grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. Memorial information: There are no services scheduled at this time.
• Richard Walter “Dick” Wolf, 91, Spofford, New Hampshire. Died peacefully at his home December 6, 2025. He was born Dec. 17, 1933, in Hackensack, New Jersey. He is survived by his wife, Beverly; his daughters, Susan Marie Wolf of Haymarket, Virginia, and Karen Elizabeth (Wolf) Geraghty of Norwalk, Connecticut; and Karen’s husband, Joshua Geraghty. He also leaves behind three nieces and two nephews. Memorial information: A memorial service will be held at Trinity Lutheran Church, 161 Western Ave., Brattleboro, on Saturday, Jan. 3rd, at 11 a.m. Donations to Trinity Lutheran Church.
This Milestones item was submitted to The Commons.