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Marilyn J. Duckless
Marilyn J. Duckless, 70, of Brattleboro died Sunday, March 28, 2010, at Brattleboro Memorial Hospital following a sudden illness.
She was born May 18, 1939, in Barton, a daughter of Raymond A. and Mildred (Smith) Drew.
In 1957 she graduated from Newport City High School in Newport. Later she graduated from the Writer’s Digest School.
On August 3, 1957, she married
Robert H. Duckless who survives her. They moved to Brattleboro in October of 1962.
She was a self-taught woman who prided herself on being a lifelong learner. She enjoyed discussing and debating issues and was strong in her convictions on political as well as cultural issues.
Among her many hobbies and interests were flower gardening, watercolor painting, dancing, traveling, and playing cards and playing piano. She was also an avid reader, stamp collector and enjoyed entertaining in her home.
Over the years, she and her husband visited Hawaii twice, Bermuda, Portugal, Mexico, Canada, Venezuela and most all of the Caribbean Islands.
Mrs. Duckless loved cats, animals and oceans. For 19 years she had a pair of registered Himalayan cats that were her pride and joy.
Organizations to which she had belonged or held office in over the years included: Oak Grove Homemakers Club, River Valley Riders Motorcycle Club, Cheshire Fish and Game Club, the National Rifle Association, the board of directors of the Brattleboro Figure Skating Club, Order of the Eastern Star, Ladies of the Moose, and she was a life member of the V.F.W. Carl Dessaint Post #1034 Ladies Auxiliary.
Her occupational history included secretary and receptionist for the Brattleboro Public Health Nursing Service, a telephone operator for Rounds Answering Service, four years at the Brattleboro Retreat where she worked in medical records and as a receptionist per diem. She was a crossing guard for eight years, a receptionist in the offices of doctors Ambler and Kimball, and the last 11 years, before she retired, she substitute taught in the elementary grades at all the schools in the WSESU.
Besides her husband of 52 years, she is survived by a daughter, Vicki Flanders, and her husband, James, of Keene, New Hampshire; a son Allen Duckless of Brattleboro; one granddaughter, Ashley Moody, and her husband, Michael, of Keene; two great-grandchildren: Briana and Logan Moody of Keene; two nieces: Lori Royer and her husband, Paul, and their daughters, Andrea and Lisa, of Newport, and Julie Nelson and her husband, Michael, and their children, David and Danielle, of Orleans.
She was predeceased by a dear sister, Joyce Rowland of Newport.
Funeral services were conducted at the Atamaniuk Funeral Home Inc. Burial was in the Newport Center cemetery.
Memorial contributions in Mrs. Duckless’ name may be made to the Windham County Humane Society, P.O. Box 397, Brattleboro, Vermont 05302.
Arrangements by the Atamaniuk Funeral Home in Brattleboro.
Jack Gabriel Hannan
Jack Gabriel Hannan lived for mountains. Maybe it was the view of Mount Hood from the hospital in Portland, Oregon, where he entered this world on September 18, 1974, or perhaps the aura of Hood’s sister volcano to the north, Mount Adams, in whose shadow he spent his toddler years, but make no mistake, a passion for high places and the great outdoors became imbedded into his make-up from an early age.
As a four-year-old, after his unrepentant hippie parents had moved him to a teepee in the Idaho panhandle, he scampered to the top of his first summit —Clifty, a lovely 2, 000-meter escarpment with a sweeping view of the Kootenai River valley below — a valley he and his family called home until answering the Green Mountains’ beckoning call in 1979.
Holland — as unpretentious a Vermont town as exists — its proximity to Jay Peak and a moderately obsessive, ski-patrol neighbor launched his skiing career with gusto. Nearly every weekend morning saw the pre-dawn arrival of the neighbor who sipped thick, black coffee while Jack bundled into hand-me-down winter garb, gathered his well-used equipment and headed off in Bruce’s Datsun for Jay Peak. For the next ten or so years, Jack was a fixture at Jay Peak, as much a part of the landscape as the Kitzbeuhel or the glades he helped pioneer — black diamond terrain. Whether sipping hot chocolate at the Snow Job or as one of the youngest ski instructors ever, Jay was his home-away-from-home — or was that what Holland was to Jay Peak?
His nascent passion for mountains was never confined to the winter months. By the time he was 18, he’d hiked Vermont’s Long Trail from Massachusetts to Canada with his family. He’d attended the Green Mountain Conservation Camp — twice. He’d spent a summer doing trail and bridge work with the Vermont Youth Conservation Corps on the side of Camel’s Hump; a season with the Green Mountain Club’s Long Trail Patrol and a long stint building trails for the U.S. Forest Service out of the Rochester Ranger District.
It’s said that skiing the ice of the East is better training for skiing the West’s powder than vice versa. So a year or so after he graduated from North Country Union High School in 1992, the lure of the West’s deep powder and endless couloirs proved irresistible. He aimed his tips toward Crested Butte, Colorado, and settled in for the next phase of his mountain love affair. While he came back to Vermont for visits he never “looked back” - for the next 17 years he called Colorado’s Rockies and British Columbia’s Coast Range home.
Just as Jay Peak has been spared the glitter and hype of a Killington or Stowe, Crested Butte was the perfect analog for Jack to land at —serious about skiing and shunning the trappings of a “resort, ” he found his niche. Embodying the “work hard/play hard” ethos of his newfound community of friends he blossomed and grew on both fronts. First as a landscaper and then as a carpenter, he managed to feed his mountain habits by following the annual rhythm of gathering enough financial acorns in good weather to ski all winter — to spend endless hours ripping remote lines on the back of “the Butte” and in the access-challenged peaks looming out of this bucolic valley.
There he also parlayed his fledgling Vermont hunting skills into standard fare for the dinner table in the form of regular success in harvesting Colorado’s elk. Never one to take the easy path, he had stories of downing an 800-pound animal in a roadless area and packing out quarters on his back. You could taste the effort in the gourmet homemade jerky he sent home to tantalize us here in Vermont. In another era he might have been at home trapping beaver and hunting “Griz” with Jedediah Smith or Jim Bridger.
There too he embarked on a circuit that had its roots in Crested Butte — the world of “extreme skiing” competitions. In the same way that a competitive diver who miscues slightly on a difficult dive might receive a higher score than a diver who nails an easy one, much of the scoring in extreme skiing hinges on the difficulty of the line chosen and the finesse with which the skier navigates that line. No terrain in the East could qualify as an extreme competition setting, save perhaps the headwall at New Hampshire’s Tuckerman Ravine. To say the format encourages “pushing the envelope” is an understatement —and push it Jack did. His list of podium visits is impressive including perhaps his most gratifying moment when he took first in the 2003 U.S. Freeskiing Championships before the hometown crowd at Crested Butte. But Kirkwood, Snowbird, Whistler and other venues saw Jack take honors as well.
In Crested Butte he also met his future bride — house painter, artist and fellow extreme competitor, Laura Ogden. In 2005 she won the North American Freeskiing Tour, and in 2006 she took the World Freeskiing Tour in a clean sweep — woman aplenty to match Jack’s passions for sure! Their tours on the circuit gave them a taste of elsewhere and British Columbia’s more consistent snow and proximity to Laura’s family in Tacoma, Washington, lured them northward.
In 2007 they moved full-time to Pemberton, British Columbia — another bucolic, unspoiled valley with majestic Mount Currie for its backdrop. In 2008 they wed in a backyard ceremony celebrated by extended and complex families and a host of friends. Their wedded lives launched in grand style, Laura settled into nursing school while Jack rode the crest of a building boom related somewhat to the pending arrival of the Winter Olympics in nearby Whistler.
Hundreds of miles of untrammeled wilderness and un-skied peaks range north out of Pemberton. Their thirst for competitive honors quenched, they channeled their zeal toward the shear joy of planning and executing first descents of peak after peak in this snowbound playing field. Snowmachines, helicopters, crampons, ice axes, climbing skins and endurance all played parts in satisfying these urges. Their skills attracted more than one film company and many photographers. The Internet abounds with visual accounts of their triumphs.
While Jack and Laura ranged far and wide in pursuit of fresh lines, Mount Currie was their familiar haunt — it was “their” mountain. Virtually in their backyard and with an available heli ride for themselves and two friends, it was to Mount Currie they headed on March 31, 2010. It was a perfect powder day, fantastic weather and a memorable run was the result. Stopping to put on skins for the rolling trek back to civilization, the serenity and satisfaction was interrupted by the freight-train sound of a Class 3 avalanche careening down the couloir they’d just skied. All raced for the safety of nearby ledges; all but Jack made it. It was over in seconds. A Class 3 avalanche is defined as capable of crushing cars and small buildings - Jack’s life was likely snuffed before the snow settled. His companions reached him in moments and had him extracted soon thereafter, but there was not life left to save. These were among the most experienced and well-equipped backcountry skiers in the world. They had avalanche beacons, avalanche probes, cell phones and thousands of hours of backcountry experience among them, but the suddenness of the tragedy proved to be a greater force than preparedness and skill.
Jack leaves behind his beloved Laura and her family on the West Coast, his mother, Carolyn Hannan and her husband, Peter Moskovites, of West Charleston, “the dad he grew up with, ” Paul Hannan, his wife, Cornelia Carey, and their daughter, Jack’s sister, Adelaide Hannan of Calais; his brother, Cedar Hannan and his partner, Jennifer Linck, of Craftsbury; his birth father, George Reeves, and his wife, Roseann, and their sons Richard and Ian of Anacortes, Washington; and relatives far and wide. More friends and admirers than there are ski lines in the Coast Range grieve his passing, with wonderful thoughts posted in various Internet venues to bear witness to that truth and to the humility and spirit that accompanied Jack’s accomplishments.
An Indian proverb speaks: “When you were born you cried and the world rejoiced. Live your life so that when you die, the world cries and you rejoice.” We all mourn Jack’s passing but there is no doubt that he should rejoice in a life well-lived. — from Paul Hannan.
Donald Lee Keeler
Donald Lee Keeler, 73, of Island Pond died Wednesday March 24, 2010, in Newport.
He was born on May 23, 1932, in Claverack, New York, a son of Adam and Etta Mae (Rightmyer) Keeler.
He attended Roeliff Jansen School in Hillsdale, New York. He received an honorable discharge from the Army during the Korean War. He lived in Colombia County most of his life moving to Castle Hill in Castleton, New York. He retired to the Northeast Kingdom in Island Pond,
He had worked for Philip Orchards, Pitcher Auto Parts, Taconic State Parkway, Taghkanic and Colombia Diners, the Philmont Police and the Schodack School District.
His favorite hobby was growing his beard to play Santa.
He was a member of the St. Thomas Lutheran Church in Churchtown, a lifetime member of Minkler Seery American Legion Post #252 in Philmont and the Mellenville and Philmont Rod and Gun Clubs.
He is survived by his loving and devoted wife of 34 years, Carolyn Pearl (Decker) Keeler; a daughter, Pamela Jean (Keeler) Barber; son-in-law, Robert P. Barber, of West Charleston; son, Kenneth Adam Keeler; daughter-in-law Mary-Beth Winfield Keeler of Claverack, New York; stepsons Allen and Matthew Voorman; grandchildren: Regina Ann (Barber) Maier, Katrina Lynn Keeler and Kailynn Courtney Keeler; great-grandchildren: Makaila Jordan Maier, Ethan Conrad Maier, and Jeremiah Lee Keeler. He is also survived by a brother Ralph Keeler and a sister Alice Wood.
Mr. Keeler was predeceased by his parents; brothers Clinton, Duane, Arnold and Adam; and a granddaughter, Aimee Jeanne Barber.
Should friends desire, contributions in his memory may be made to the Siskin, Celebrate Kidz, P.O. Box 1, East Charleston, Vermont 05833.
Mr. Keeler’s wife, Carolyn, is recovering from surgery, therefore a memorial service will be held at a future date.
Arrangements by the Curtis-Britch-Converse-Rushford Funeral Homes.
Helen Irene Morrill
Helen Irene Morrill died quietly at home in Friday Harbor, Washington, on February 4, 2010.
She was preceded in death by her husband, A. Edwin Morrill, in 1995 and her son A. Edward (Nick) Morrill in 1992.
She is survived by her daughter Linda Lush and her husband, Terry, of Friday Harbor; five grandsons; eight great-grandchildren; and nieces and nephews.
Mrs. Morrill was born Helen Smith in Montpelier on June 16, 1922, and remained in her beloved Vermont until moving in 2002 from Barton to Friday Harbor to be close to her daughter and son-in-law.
Her love (and talent) for music began early, and for some time she played violin with a symphony. More recently, while in Friday Harbor, she enjoyed playing the piano several times a week.
In the 1950s and 1960s, she worked as a public accountant in Barton and St. Johnsbury. In the 1970s, she used her interest in history and knowledge of antiques to manage a gift shop at the Bennington Battle Monument.
Being a serious animal lover, she turned the Morrill household into a bit of an animal shelter, finding new homes for dogs, cats, horses, parrots and even a monkey.
At a later time, Mrs. Morrill’s remains will be returned to Vermont for burial next to her husband of 54 years and son and five generations of family.
If you wish to share stories or thoughts, you may contact Linda and Terry Lush at Linda@sjihome.com or 47 Waypoint Road, Friday Harbor, Washington 98250.
Truman Peck
Truman Scott Peck, 69, of Island Pond died peacefully April 3, 2010, in Newport.
He was born November 24, 1940, in Sutton, a son of Elmer and Flossie (Facteau) Peck.
On August 7, 2005, he married
Diane (DeLaBruere) Daniels who survives him.
He attended Lyndon Institute in 1958. Mr. Peck entered the U.S. Army on November 25, 1960, and was honorably discharged on November 24, 1963. He was an engineer for the Canadian Pacific Railroad for 32 years.
He enjoyed hunting, four-wheeling, kayaking, biking, ice fishing, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, square dancing, building model airplanes and spending time with his family. He wintered in Winter Haven, Florida, where he made many new friends and touched many lives.
Mr. Peck held memberships with the American Legion Post #21 of Newport, the Masonic Golden Rule Lodge #5 of Stanstead, and the square dance club and bowling league.
At one time, he was a licensed barber, and he owned and operated a body shop and built his own home, both located in Derby Line.
He is survived by his wife, Diane (Daniels) Peck, of Island Pond; his children: Scott Peck and his companion, Tina, of West Charleston, Darrin Peck and his companion, Sarah Myers, of Essex Junction, and Jodie Peck of Albany; nine grandchildren: Cory, Angelee, Danielle, Natasha, Desmah, Ayla-Kaid, Noah, Savannah, and Elizabeth; and by special family members Tammy and Dion. He is also survived by a brother Stewart Peck and his friend, Audrey, of Enosburg; three sisters: Shirley Ronan of California, Doreen Deos of Lyndon Center, Geraldine Deos of Long Island, New York; several nieces and nephews; his stepchildren: Walter Daniels and his companion, Andrea Natal, of East Burke, Christine Jenks and her husband, Dusty, of East Burke, and Marie Routhier and her husband, Alan, of Essex; and by eight step-grandchildren: Victoria, Allyssa, Jacob, Austin, Melena, Arianna, Tyler and Hailey.
Mr. Peck has joined his son Rance Peck who predeceased him on April 22, 2002.
Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, April 10 at the Curtis-Britch-Converse-Rushford Memorial Chapel in Newport with the Reverend Elton Ovitt officiating. Friends may call at the funeral home from 10 a.m. until the hour of the funeral. Interment will follow in East Haven cemetery with full military honors. Members of the Masonic Golden Rule Lodge #5 will conduct a Masonic service at 10 a.m. at the funeral home.
Should friends desire, contributions in his memory may be made to the American Cancer Society, 55 Day Lane, Williston, Vermont 05495.
Arrangements by the Curtis-Britch-Converse-Rushford Funeral Homes.
John R. Smith
John “Jack” R. Smith, 78, of Coventry died March 20, 2010, at his home.
He was born February 21, 1932, in Nashua, New Hampshire, a son of Ellis and Margaret (McInnes) Smith.
He married
Louise Richard who predeceased him in 1999.
He entered the U.S. Navy and served in the Korean War.
He was owner and operator of the Heermansmith Farm Restaurant in Coventry for 25 years.
He is survived by a son John Smith of Florida; a sister Patricia Kemp and her husband, Richard, of Palm Harbor, Florida; and by numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.
He was predeceased by two brothers, Al and Robert Smith.
A service of remembrance will be held at 1 p.m. on Saturday, April 10, at the Heermansmith Farm in Coventry.
Should friends desire, contributions in his memory may be made to the American Cancer Society, 55 Day Lane, Williston, Vermont 05495.
Arrangements by the Curtis-Britch-Converse-Rushford Funeral Home.
Joan Ellyn Barry
Joan Ellyn Barry, 74, of Derby, formerly of Arlington, Massachusetts, died in Derby, surrounded by family, after a difficult battle with cancer on June 26, 2009.
Mrs. Barry was born December 6, 1934, in Medford, Massachusetts, a daughter of Carl and Agnes (Johnson) Carlson.
On October 6, 1956, she married
Ronald Earle Barry, who survives her.
She was a hard-working woman throughout most of her lifetime and was recognized as an exceptional administrative assistant, working for some of the most highly regarded doctors in Massachusetts. She worked for more than 20 of those years for the Lahey Clinic in Burlington, Massachusetts. Earlier in her working career she worked for an advertising agency in New York City.
She loved to draw. She had tremendous artistic ability. She kept her drawings private, and only those she was close with were allowed to view her work as she was her own worst critic.
She enjoyed doing New York Times crossword puzzles and drinking Diet Coke. She was an avid reader and a tremendous cook. She loved Sunday morning breakfast at the East Side Restaurant.
She is survived by her husband of 52 years, Ronald Barry, of Derby; by two children, Raymond Barry of Newport and Craig Barry and his wife, Kristi, of Derby; by her granddaughter Madison Barry of Derby; by parents-in-law, Bill and Bonnie Wheeler, of Derby Line; by sister-in-law Merilyn Barry of Derby; by niece Kimberly Flynn and her husband, Keith, of Derby Line; by nephews Kyle Berry and his wife, Gail, of Derby and Kord Barry and his wife, Mary, of Derby; by cousin Eleanor (Carlson) Hutchinson and her husband, David, of Burlington, Massachusetts; and by her collie Shannon, with whom she had a special bond. She had many close, personal friends from near and far and extremely caring neighbors who willingly gave of themselves throughout her illness.
Private services will be held at the convenience of the family.
Should friends desire, contributions in Mrs. Barry’s memory may be made to Orleans-Essex Visiting Nurses Association and Hospice, 46 Lakemont Road, Newport, Vermont 05855; or to Frontier Animal Society, 502 Strawberry Acres, Newport, Vermont 05855.
