Obituaries
• Helen Grace Bostock, 75, of Ludlow. Died April 14, 2026, at Springfield Health & Rehabilitation Center. She was born Jan. 22, 1951, at Fort Dix, New Jersey, the daughter of Robert and Rose Marie (Slanetz) Short. She graduated as valedictorian from Leland & Gray High School in Townshend with the Class of 1969. She married Paul B. Bostock on May 19, 1999, in Ludlow. Helen worked as an administrative assistant in the insurance industry. She also drove a school bus in Cavendish and worked in elder care in the area. She enjoyed quilting and crocheting and loved her cats. Helen is survived by her husband, brothers-in-law Charles Bostock, John Bostock, and Richard Bostock, sister-in-law Eleanor Norton, and several cousins. She was predeceased by her parents and by her sister, Constance Redford. Memorial information: A graveside service will be held on Thursday, April 30, at 11 a.m. at Pleasantview Cemetery in Ludlow. Donations to your local humane society.
• Alberta H. Colburn, 85, of Hinsdale, New Hampshire. Died unexpectedly April 14, 2026, at her home. Alberta was born in Westfield, Massachusetts, on June 11, 1940, the daughter of Dorr and Mary (Dugas) Hudson. She was raised in Hinsdale and Brattleboro, where she attended public schools. She was a graduate of Brattleboro High School, Class of 1958. For many years, Alberta was a child care provider, operating her own day care out of her home in Hinsdale. She was also co-owner of a Christian bookstore located in Hinsdale. A woman of great faith in her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, she attended Vernon Union Church. She was a published author of short stories for Sunday school booklets. Alberta was one of the co-founders of Christian Heritage School, formerly located on Guilford Street in Brattleboro. She was an excellent seamstress who made her children’s clothing when they were growing up. She was a passionate genealogist, tracking her family’s history back several centuries, (which included ancestors on the Mayflower), and was an avid gardener, passionate about American history, and was known for her delicious jams, jellies, apple pies, pumpkin bread, Jello salad, and Sunday dinners. Most importantly, Alberta was a loving mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother whose life centered around her family. On June 15, 1968, at West Brattleboro Baptist Church, she was married to George Paul Colburn, who predeceased her on January 19, 1979. Survivors include her four daughters, Sylvan King (Mark) of Westmoreland, New Hampshire, Melissa Fisk of Hinsdale, Rebecca DeMond of Fitzwilliam, New Hampshire, and Aimee Bruch of Hinsdale; one sister, Loretta Martin (Terry) of Brattleboro; 11 grandchildren, 19 great-grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews. Besides her devoted husband, she was predeceased by a sister, Doreen Elizabeth Winchester, and a brother, Cressy Alan Hudson. Memorial information: Graveside committal services in Morningside Cemetery will be private. There are no calling hours at the funeral home. Donations to Branches Family Resource Center, 26 Birge St., Brattleboro, VT 05301. To offer condolences, visit atamaniuk.com.
• Douglas “Doug” Fisher, 67, of Wilmington. Died Feb. 23, 2026, at the Applewood Center in Winchester, New Hampshire. Doug was born in Orlando, Florida, Sept. 22, 1958. He lived in Vermont most of his life with his adoptive parents, William and Marion Fisher, and his adopted sister, Karen Elizabeth Fisher. Doug loved his parents and moved to Florida in their last years to care for them. Doug attended various schools, ultimately earning his bachelor’s degree through the GI Bill. He served in the Navy and, later in life, worked in the produce department at Shaw’s supermarket in Wilmington. He was an active part of the Wilmington Baptist Church, where his smile would light up the room. He enjoyed participating in activities with the church, including life group gatherings, the annual church picnic, and men’s Bible study. He was kind, humble, and gracious, with a strong faith in God. He had a strong work ethic and was very supportive of others. He was generous and enjoyed sharing stories about his family. Doug is survived by his daughter, Sarah, and his beloved grandchildren. Memorial information: A celebration of life for Doug will be held at the Wilmington Baptist Church on Saturday, May 16, at 3 p.m. To send condolences, visit cremationsocietyofvt.com.
• Stephen Paul “Steve” Garrecht, 59, of Lowell, Arkansas, formerly of Brattleboro. Died Feb. 19, 2026. Steve was born in Brattleboro May 15, 1966, the second son of the Rev. David and Mrs. Jean Garrecht. Growing up as a pastor’s son, he called many states home, from New England to Colorado and Wyoming. After attending the University of Wyoming and the University of Massachusetts, Steve’s adventurous spirit took him to many destinations around the world, including traveling with friends through Europe, Africa, and Australia. He spent two weeks backpacking solo in the Australian outback. Those experiences reflected his independent spirit and enjoyment of the outdoors. After returning to the U.S., Steve settled in Arkansas and was employed by various construction companies. He designed and built his own home and successfully completed many other construction projects. His high standards were reflected in his reliable and dedicated work ethic. Steve will be remembered for his sense of humor, his love of animals, his talent in wood crafting, and his gregarious and altruistic nature. He also had a deep appreciation for the outdoors and enjoyed hunting, fishing, and observing wildlife. Those who knew him remember him as a kind and caring person who made friends easily and was always willing to help others in need, both people and animals. Steve is survived by his parents, Rev. David and Jean Garrecht of Keene, New Hampshire; his two brothers and their wives Peter Garrecht and Nina Wu of South Burlington, and Christopher and Lauren Garrecht of Unity, New Hampshire; nephew Kevin Xie and his wife Sierra Guay of Winterville, North Carolina; and cousin Keith and his wife Judy Clausen of Jacksonville, Florida; his beloved dog Bernie, and numerous cousins and friends. He will be fondly remembered and greatly missed by all who knew him. Memorial information: A memorial service to honor Steve’s life will be held Saturday, May 16, at First Baptist Church of Keene, 105 Maple Ave., at 11 a.m. All are welcome. Donations to the local animal shelter of your choice.
• Carolyn Sue Haselton, 83, of Brattleboro. Died peacefully at home, surrounded by her loving family, on April 12, 2026. Born Nov. 16, 1942, in Peterborough, New Hampshire, she was the daughter of Homer and Pauline (Cote) Charlonne. Carolyn was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend whose life was defined by her unwavering faith and deep love for her family. She married the love of her life, Stanley Haselton, on August 22, 1984. Together they built a life filled with love and shared memories that spanned over four decades. Carolyn’s family was the center of her world; she found immense joy in family gatherings, both large and small. A woman of profound faith and devotion to prayer, Carolyn found strength in her Catholic beliefs. Her kindness and wisdom were a source of comfort to all who knew her. She lived as a pillar of strength and guidance for those around her — a legacy that will endure in the hearts of those she touched. Among Carolyn’s personal writings was a heartfelt note that reflects the grace with which she approached life: “Fill not your hearts with sorrow but remember me in every tomorrow. Remember the joy and the laughter and the smiles. I’ve only gone to rest a little while. Although my leaving causes pain and grief, my going has eased my heart and given me relief. As long as I have the love of each of you, I can live my life in the hearts of all of you.” Carolyn is survived by her beloved husband, Stanley; her children, Edward Biron Jr. and Cathleen Biron; her stepdaughters, Gail Corey, Pamela Bean, Kelly Haselton-Ackerman, Jennifer Haselton, and Stephanie Haselton; and Larry Pratt Jr., who was like a son to her. She also leaves behind her sisters, Janice Hurd and Marcia Charlonne; 19 grandchildren, six great-grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by siblings Gerald Charlonne, Francis “Bobby” Charlonne, Joan Ladeau, Patricia Dyer, Mary Lewis, Colleen Hardy, Sheila Charlonne, and Edward Charlonne; as well as her grandson, Jacob Bean. Memorial information: At Carolyn’s request, no formal funeral services will take place. To offer condolences, visit atamaniuk.com.
• Polly S. May, 93, formerly of Brattleboro. Died April 3, 2026, in Summerville, South Carolina, following a period of declining health. Polly was born at home in Brattleboro July 19, 1932, the daughter of Bradford and Alice (Alexander) Streeter. She was raised and educated in Brattleboro, attending public schools, and was a graduate of Brattleboro High School, Class of 1950. She was employed at the former Dunham Shoe Company on Cotton Mill Hill, which she retired from following 28 years of faithful service. While residing in Brattleboro, she attended First Congregational Church on Western Avenue. For several years, Polly was a member of Dennis Rebekah Lodge #1 in Brattleboro. In 1979, with her husband, she moved to the Lakes Region in New Hampshire where she worked on the S.S. Mount Washington cruise ship for 38 years; a position that she truly loved. Polly enjoyed traveling by rail, taking the train to Florida with her husband where they enjoyed spending the winter months. She also loved boating, planting flowers, and time shared with her family both in New Hampshire and Florida. Polly also enjoyed her gold jewelry. A true people person who was young at heart, she will be remembered for being a real spitfire and for her bubbly personality and wonderful sense of humor. On April 14, 1949, in Brattleboro, she was married to Donald Herbert “Don” May. Her devoted husband of 75 years predeceased her May 12, 2024. Survivors include her two sons, Winston (Deborah) of Brattleboro and Mitchell (Laurie) of Monks Corner, South Carolina; four grandchildren, eight great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews. Memorial information: A memorial celebration of life will be held at a future date. Donations to the Windham County Humane Society, P.O. Box 397, Brattleboro, VT 05302. To offer condolences, visit atamaniuk.com.
• Hollis C. Ryea, a man whose creativity was as limitless as his stubbornness, died April 10, 2026, at age 84. He leaves behind a legacy as colorful as the East Burke hills, where he was born on Oct. 10, 1941. Hollis was honest, a thoughtful listener and a man of precision. He had particular habits and a mischievous spirit that kept everyone on their toes. As a young man, he served in the Vermont Army National Guard in Enosburg Falls. He later moved to southern Vermont where he built a life and a family in Westminster West with his beloved wife of 64 years, Marjorie (Sally) J. (Snider) Ryea. Hollis was the eccentric heart of his family. To him, a job wasn’t done until it was perfect. He was a trickster who enjoyed a prank and the kind of corny humor that made you groan and smile at the same time. Hollis prided himself on his strong work ethic. He started his own small business where he served the community as a skilled and reliable carpenter. When not working, he found great pleasure in gardening and farming to provide homegrown meals for his family. He was innovative, using nature to create his masterpieces. His imagination was endless, most famously manifested in his “Hollis-sized” projects — like the time his unwavering patience resulted in a massive, towering icicle that stood taller than he did. It was a feat of nature, engineering, and sheer stubbornness that perfectly captured his essence. He did everything with a clever and unique style of his own. Hollis was one of a kind. He proved that being kind and trustworthy was the way to live. He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered for a clever joke, the saying “measure twice, cut once,” and for keeping it old school. He is survived by his lifelong partner, Sally, and their children, who carry forward his lessons of hard work and meticulousness: Jennie (Gary Stoddard), Gail Mattingly, and Melanie (Andrew Atkin). Hollis was a proud grandfather and great-grandfather. He is survived by his grandchildren: Braden Ryea (Melissa Nowers), Joel Stoddard (Heather), Matthew Stoddard (Tanya), Jeremy Mattingly (Rachel), Alison Mattingly, Zachary Mattingly, Kendra Atkin (Malcolm Coppo), and Jared Atkin; and great-grandchildren Reghan and Dean Ryea, Asher and Carson Stoddard, Aubree and Myles Stoddard, and Eliza and Lily Mattingly. He was predeceased by his son, Bradley Ryea; and his granddaughter, Jessica Ryea. He was one of 10 children and is survived by two sisters. Memorial information: His final resting place will be in Troy, Vermont. A celebration of life was held April 18 at the Elks Club in Bellows Falls. Donations to the Parkinson’s Foundation, parkinson.org ; Bayada Hospice, 1222 Putney Road, Suite 107, Brattleboro, VT 05301; or Westminster Cares, P.O. Box 312, Westminster, VT 05158.
• Gail A. Raymond Ventura, 82, died peacefully in the arms of her loving daughters April 12, 2026. She was born July 13, 1943 in Cortland, New York, to Roland “Nick” and Lois May Raymond. Gail lived in the Cortland area where she raised her three daughters. In 1981, she moved to Rochester, New York, and, in 1986, happily made Vermont her home. She found her professional calling in nursing. Gail attended Thompson School for Nursing for her LPN and graduated from Southern Vermont College with her RN. Gail dedicated her life to caring for others, both personally and professionally. During her 34-year career as a nurse at Brattleboro Memorial Hospital, she made an unforgettable impact on her patients, colleagues, and all who were fortunate enough to know her. Her passion for nursing and caring for others was second only to her love and dedication to her family. Gail loved spending time in Wells, Maine, where she shared the joy of searching for heart rocks and hunting for beautiful pieces of sea glass with her daughters and grandchildren. The searches often became very competitive, with everyone comparing their treasures at the end of the day. This is one of the many traditions she started and will be carried on for generations to come. Gail will always be remembered as a loving and devoted mother, grandmother, “Gigi,” a dedicated nurse, and a cherished friend. Her heartfelt goodbyes were always finished with, “love you muchly” and more recently, “love you muchly, muchly, and more,” In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her beautiful eldest daughter, Kelley C. Greenman Walker Howell. She is survived by her loving daughters, Kimberly Morse (Scott) and Marabeth Yannizze; grandchildren Daniel Walker (Melissa), Molly Anne Pixley (Ken), Jacob Yannizze (Keegan), Amy Yannizze, Matthew Morse, and Abigail Morse; and great-grandchildren Samuel, Olivia, Grace, and Kennedy. Additionally, she leaves her dear sister, Kathie Raymond Brunner (Denny) and numerous beloved friends. Memorial information: Family and friends may call at Atamaniuk Funeral Home, 40 Terrace St. in Brattleboro, Friday, May 1, from 4 to 6 p.m. A celebration of her life will be held Saturday, May 2, at American Legion Post 5 in Brattleboro from 1 to 3 p.m. Donations to St. Brigid’s Kitchen and Pantry, 47 Walnut St., Brattleboro, VT 05301. To offer condolences, visit atamaniuk.com.
• Regina Margaret Regan Wellman, 86, formerly of Brattleboro. Died April 8, 2026. Regina, affectionately known as “GG” to her beloved grandchildren, departed this world peacefully with her family by her side. Born in Brattleboro Oct. 9, 1939, Regina was the cherished daughter of John and Joanna Regan. She grew up surrounded by picturesque New England landscapes, which instilled in her a lifelong appreciation for nature’s beauty. Regina’s journey of learning began at St. Michael’s High School in Brattleboro, where she graduated in 1957. Driven by a passion for helping others, she pursued a degree in physical therapy at Tufts University, graduating in 1961. Her career as a physical therapist spanned several states, including Michigan, Vermont, and Pennsylvania, where she touched countless lives with her healing hands and compassionate spirit. In 1962, Regina married the love of her life in her hometown of Brattleboro. Together, they built a life centered in love, family, and community. Regina’s nurturing nature extended beyond her professional life, as she was a devoted mother to her daughters, Lisa (Mark) and Julie (John), and son Stephen, and a proud GG to six adoring grandchildren — Hannah (Nate) Tressler, Bailey Jasper, Liam Duffy, Colin Duffy, Matthew Wellman, and Grace Duffy — who were the light of her life. Regina was a woman of many talents and interests. She had a remarkable ability to transform the simplest ingredients into culinary delights, a testament to her love for cooking and food shopping. Her gardens were a testament to her green thumb and her knack for beautiful flower arrangements. But above all, it was the time she spent with her grandchildren that brought her the greatest joy. A devout member of St. Agnes Church in West Chester, Pennsylvania, Regina lived her faith through acts of kindness and a gentle nature that inspired all who knew her. Her favorite saying, “If you can’t say something nice, don’t say anything at all,” was a guiding principle in her life, leaving a legacy of kindness and respect. Regina was predeceased by her beloved parents, and her dear son, Stephen. She is survived by her daughters, Lisa and Julie, who carry forward her legacy of love and compassion. The Wellman family is comforted by the beautiful memories and enduring love Regina shared with all who were fortunate to know her. Her spirit will forever be a beacon of warmth and grace in our hearts. Memorial information: A celebration of Regina’s life will be held at a later date. Donations to a charity of your choice, reflecting her lifelong commitment to helping others.
Services
• A celebration of life for Joanne Staats will be held Saturday, May 2. A memorial Mass will take place from 11 a.m. to noon at Our Lady of the Valley, 92 Grafton Rd., Townshend, followed by a reception from noon until 2 p.m. at The Newfane Inn, 4 Court St., Newfane. All who knew Joanne are welcome to attend. Mrs. Staats, 68, of Brookline, died Sept. 26, 2025, following a six-year battle with cancer.
• A memorial service and celebration of life for Andrew David Mario will be held Saturday, May 9, at 2 p.m. at Guilford Community Church. A reception will follow at the church. Mr. Mario, 33, of Brattleboro, beloved son of Michael and Heidi Mario, was killed Dec. 3, 2025, while serving as a medic with the Azov Brigade in the Donetsk region of Ukraine.
This Milestones item was submitted to The Commons.