College news
• The following local students at Community College of Vermont (CCV) earned associate degrees at CCV’s 2026 Commencement on Saturday, June 6: Karissa Mae Pavlovic of Bellows Falls, Moussoumakan A. Diallo Peharrie, Jessica A. Farquhar, Bethany Diane Kriger, Daelyn R. Lynn, Iyla Marie Neikirk, Carina Chelsea Reinsel, Rosemarie Smith, Maureen N. Velsor, and Charlotte Veltkamp of Brattleboro;Mistyrose Johnson of Dummerston, Tyler Ryan Gianpoalo of Guilford, Juniper X. Rose of Halifax, Annika Caton Warriner Crego, Rachael Anna Edgar, and Jada M. Wood of Newfane; Sage E. Ballentine, Patricia A. Bills, Eyvonne Jasmine Martin, Shane Winchester Martin Jr., Alysa Ruth Morse, and Simon Cullen Reynolds of Putney; Kailuna MacKenzie Holmes of Townshend; Cheryl Leigh Christophe, Kyle Lee McDonald, Abigail Lucille Squiers, Maria C. Tevolini, and Jada L. Unruh of Vernon; Sarah Enid Andersen of Wardsboro; Gina Olivia DePaolis of West Halifax, and Tessa McAuliffe Atwood and Sara Marie Dix of Wilmington.
• Jessica Harvey of Brattleboro recently received a B.S. in nursing from Elms College in Chicopee, Massachusetts.
• Georgia Bristol of Dummerston, Liliana Carignan of Brattleboro, and Destiny Duke of Vernon were named to the spring 2026 Dean’s List at Springfield (Mass.) College.
• Spencer Butynski of Brookline and Munasqa Choque Stenn of Marlboro were named to the spring 2026 President’s List at the University of Hartford (Conn.)
• Maria Carfora of Brattleboro and Evan Fitzpatrick of Jacksonville were named to the spring 2026 Dean’s List at Quinnipiac University in Hamden, Connecticut.
School news
• Destiny Thibault of Dummerston is the 2026 recipient of the Brattleboro Area Chamber of Commerce’s Jerry Goldberg “Skills for Success” Scholarship for 2026. Thibault, a graduating senior from Brattleboro Union High School and the Windham Regional Career Center,has focused her education on entrepreneurship, merging her lifelong passion with business skills that she has actively cultivated through the career center’s two-year business and management program and leadership in Future Business Leaders of America, while also running her own small specialty baking business – launched when she was 12. Thibault, also an honor roll student and athlete, has plans underway for expanding her business after graduation.
Obituaries
• Stephen Joseph Belczak, 74, of Westminster West. Died unexpectedly on Nov. 7, 2025. He was born in Bellows Falls on December 25, 1951, the son of Joseph and Amelia (Poluch) Belczak. He leaves his much-loved wife, Virginia Wyoming, and his two sisters, Frances Church of Brattleboro and JoAnne Merrill of Hendersonville, North Carolina. He also leaves several nieces and nephews and two grandnephews. Steve had a fervent commitment to grassroots activism. He was a longtime co-chair of the Connecticut River Joint Commission and helped to develop the River Corridor Management plan. He also worked for many years as a mental health professional and advocate at the Brattleboro Retreat. He was known for his compassionate patient care and was also a vocal advocate of workers’ rights and a strong union for health care works. Steve was a frequent contributor to The Commons with his thoughts on social, political, and labor issues. He was very concerned about the state of our country. He was a liberal with a capital “L.” His one passion in life was his wife, Virginia, and during her illness he cared for her until it became impossible. He loved bicycling with special friends and one in particular, along the Vermont roads, past the woods and villages. In the past, fly fishing was a happy time for him… he loved being out in nature. Music was a love of his and he would introduce his new discoveries to his friends and relatives. And, not to forget, his great sense of humor, which his nephew has also. Steve and Virginia had a large circle of devoted friends who loved them, had good times with them, and helped them in hard times. Memorial information: There will be a celebration of Steve’s life at Westminster Congregational Church later this summer, at a date and time to be announced.
• David Frederick “Dave” Bell, 71, of Brattleboro. Died peacefully at home, surrounded by his beloved family, on June 2, 2026. For more than a decade, he beat the odds after getting diagnosed with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis in 2014 and receiving a bilateral lung transplant in 2017. He fought tirelessly since then, never giving up, and is now able to rest. Dave’s superpower was always looking at the good in life and recognizing how fortunate he was every single day, despite his challenging journey. Dave was born Dec. 23, 1954. to the late Jane York and Hamlin A. Bell. Dave grew up in Clinton, Connecticut, and moved to Brattleboro at age 18, where he remained a lifetime resident. Dave met his wife, Lynda, in July 1976 at a close friend’s wedding. They married on June 30, 1979. During Dave and Lynda’s 47-year marriage, they created wonderful memories together, including many travel adventures across regions of the U.S., the Caribbean, and as far away as visiting family in Australia. In 1988, they bought their 1800s farmhouse on Sunset Lake Road and completely renovated it. There they raised their two sons, Chris and Matt, and have countless cherished memories at their home, such as Fourth of July celebrations with family and friends and spending time by the brook. After his careers at Bernie LaRock & Son, Sanel Auto Parts, and L&B Freightliner, Dave with his son, Chris, started Bellco Excavating in 2009. This was a major life goal and accomplishment for Dave that made him very proud. If Dave wasn’t working at Bellco, you could find him attending his grandkids’ events, especially sports, playing golf with his buddies, or watching Bruins hockey. Dave loved his grandchildren beyond measure, each receiving his undivided attention, love and guidance. They fondly reminisce on the fun memories and many lessons learned with their Papa. Dave was a cherished friend to many, including several close friendships he kept from high school. He was a lifetime member of Brattleboro Elks Lodge #1499 and served on the Board of Directors for Brattleboro Little League. Along with his parents, Dave was preceded in death by his father-in-law Martin Jewett, grandson Theodore Martin “Teddy” Bell, and nephew Andrew Jewett. In addition to his beloved wife, Lynda, Dave is survived by his son Chris and wife Lauren, and their children, Collin and Leah, and son Matt and wife Liz, and their son, Otto. Also surviving are his sister Nancy Vincelette (William) of Clinton, sister Karen Nevitt and husband Robert of Southport, North Carolina, brother Thomas Bell (Kristine) of Stonington, Connecticut, brother-in-law Joseph Jewett and wife Bernadette of Brattleboro, and mother-in-law Julie Jewett of Brattleboro. Also surviving are numerous nieces and nephews and his cousins Curt York and wife Kathy of Northwood, New Hampshire and Marla Ingalls and husband Paul of Westbrook, Connecticut. Memorial information: A celebration of life will be announced at a later date. In honor of Dave, consider making a donation to one of the following local youth organizations that were special to him: Brattleboro Hockey Association (check can be mailed to P.O. Box 1, Brattleboro, VT 05302), Brattleboro Ski Hill (check can be mailed to P.O. Box 1945, Brattleboro, VT 05302), or Brattleboro Little League (check can be mailed to P.O. Box 8323, Brattleboro, VT 05304). To offer condolences, visit atamaniuk.com.
• Lillian M. Darrah, 85, of Westminster. Died at her home, with her loving family beside her, on June 9, 2026. She was born Feb. 17, 1941, in Hartland, the daughter of Chester and Elsie (Patterson) Webster. Lillian worked at the Brattleboro Retreat in the dietary department and became the baker from 1974 until retirement. She loved making cakes, pies, and breads. Lillian is survived by her daughter, Donna Thomas, and grandchildren Jason Thomas Sr., Rebecca Freegard, and Amanda Sipes. She is also survived by Krista Amidon, Homer Sipes, and Paul Thomas, as well as great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren. She was predeceased by her parents, her husband, Norman, and other family members including a sister, Jenny Webster, a twin brother at birth, and grandson Chester N. Thomas. Memorial information: A private graveside service will be held at the Westminster New Cemetery for the family.
• Edward Lee “Ed” Foster, 71, of Rockingham. Died at his home on May 27, 2026. Edward was born August 14, 1954, in Springfield, Vermont, to Ellen Sylvia and Raymond Earl Foster. He married the love of his life, Ruth Foster on June 21, 1975. He was a wonderful son, husband, father, brother, and friend. Ed was sure to make everyone smile and laugh. He enjoyed metal detecting, hunting, fishing (especially ice fishing), riding his motorcycle, and spending time with family and friends. He was a jack of all trades and did many different jobs throughout his life: driving dump trucks, mechanic work, towing and recovery, and carpentry. Edward was preceded in death by his wife; mother, Ellen Wade; stepfather, Allen Wade; father, Raymond Foster; brothers Albert (Foster) Wade and Andrew (Foster) Wade; and his uncle, Jerry Foster. He is survived by his son, David Foster; daughter, Beth Muzzey; son-in-law, Travis Muzzey; stepmother Beverly Foster; brother Mike Foster; brother-in-law Marty Weinstein; sister Judy Cenate; brother-in-law, Don Cenate; sister, Sheryl Stowell; sister, Donna Foster; his uncle, Harold Foster; his uncle Jim Foster; and many nieces, nephews, and friends. Memorial information: A Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, June 27, at the Bartonsville Grange in Rockingham (116 Old Rte. 103) from 12:30 to 3 p.m.
• Amy Jean Goding, 49, formerly of Brattleboro. Died peacefully June 6, 2026, in East Ryegate, after a long battle with MS. Amy was born on March 3, 1977, in Brattleboro to the late Stephen A., Goding Sr. & Nancy J. Wisell. She attended school in both Brattleboro and Hinsdale, New Hampshire, living most of her life in that area before moving to her caregivers’ home in East Ryegate. Amy will be remembered for her spicy personality, her love of life, and her love of the Boston Red Sox. Whether it was traveling, getting a new tattoo, tanning, or flamingos, Amy loved everything life had to offer. She enjoyed going to Red Sox games and seeing them win multiple World Series titles. Her life changed significantly after her MS diagnosis in 2009 caused her a lot of physical and emotional pain. Though she could not enjoy what she used to, she took comfort in the presence of her family, especially her daughter Hanah. Her pain is finally over, but the joy she shared will live forever in the hearts of those who knew her. Amy is survived by her daughter Hanah Lepisto and her partner Jackson Heller; sister Darlene Goding; brother Stephen Goding Jr. (Debbie); and her stepfather Dennis Peters. She was also predeceased by her sister, Shirley Goding. Memorial information: A celebration of life will be held in Brattleboro this summer. More details will follow. To offer condolences, visit saylesfh.com.
• John Russell Grumeza of Louisville, Kentucky, formerly of Grafton and Dummerston Center. Died March 8, 2026. He was born in New York City and grew up in Westport, Connecticut, Grafton, and Dummerston. He graduated from Johnson State College with a liberal arts degree. He enjoyed sports, community activities, movies, cars, music, and high-tech gadgets. He had a brilliant mind and was a great problem solver. He is survived by his mother, Lynn S. Barrett, his sister, Lynna Barnard, his brother, Bobby Barrett, his aunt Randi Barrett, and his uncle Russ Barrett, along with his father, Ion Grumeza and numerous cousins throughout the country. He will be missed by all. Memorial information:None provided.
• Robert Wesley Hancock, 95, of Brattleboro. Died June 5, 2026. A beloved father, stepfather, uncle, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He was born November 23, 1930, in Elyria, Ohio, to Dr. Robert Wesley Hancock and Doris Irene Powell Hancock. He and his sister Lois, born in 1924, grew up in Elyria. He graduated from Northwestern University in 1952 with a B.A. in philosophy. He served in the Army during the Korean Conflict as a member of the Fifth Army Band on clarinet. He was married to Maureen Markham in 1958, and they had four children: Charles, Elizabeth, Amelia, and Robert. He received a law degree from the University of Southern California and practiced law for more than 40 years. The family lived in Rancho Palos Verdes, California, for more than 30 years. He was an outdoor enthusiast, loving hiking, backpacking, biking and photography. Maureen died in 1971. He eventually was re-married to Laura Helleren Hancock in 1981. He was a beloved stepfather to her children, Paul and Karen. In 2001, he and Laura moved to Redlands, California, where they lived for over 20 years and traveled extensively. After Laura’s death in 2024, he moved to Thompson House Nursing Home in Brattleboro to be near some of his children. He was preceded in death by his sister Lois Hancock Linsly, his daughter Amelia, and his wives, Maureen and Laura. He is survived by his children, Charlie Hancock (Alice LaPierre), Elizabeth Hancock Ungerleider (John), Robert P. Hancock (Chris Terry); stepchildren Karen Brandt (Sue) and Paul Lambros; grandchildren Jacob and Isaiah Ungerleider, Emily Brandt, Jamez Terry (Julia); and great-grandchildren: Sebastian and Jesiahlynn Terry. Right up to his last few hours of his life, he remained cheerful, interested, amused, skeptical, expressive, and kind. Memorial information: A memorial service will be held in September. To offer condolences to the family, visit csnh.com.
• Rita Roberta Hinds, 97, of Bellows Falls. Died peacefully June 7, 2026. She was born Aug. 13, 1928, in Rutland to Alvin John Reed and Lillian Viola Peterson. During high school, Rita lived with the Wisell family, caring for their three children in exchange for room and board. The experience reflected the strong work ethic and sense of responsibility that would define her life. After graduating from Bellows Falls High School, Rita met the love of her life, Albert John Hinds Jr., at a dance at the Blue and Gold Ballroom in Bellows Falls. They married on April 17, 1948. After briefly living in White Plains, New York, they settled in Bellows Falls, where they raised their family and built a life together. Rita worked part-time for the Boy Scouts of America and Bragg Lumber, performing office work. Beginning as a bookkeeper at Bellows Falls Trust, Rita steadily advanced through the organization, serving as a teller, then head teller, and ultimately a loan officer. Her dedication, intelligence, and strong work ethic earned the respect of colleagues and customers alike. Rita and Al were champion candlepin bowlers and loved to dance. She was active in the local Rotary and proudly served as its president for one term. Rita believed in service before self and was passionate about her family, friends, and her church. Even in her later years, Rita remained remarkably independent, continuing to manage her home, finances, and daily affairs. She was a beloved member of the community, a formidable card player, and was known for her infectious laugh. She will be missed by all. Rita is survived by her daughters, Kathye Jo Toussaint (Nelson) and Pamela Sue Hinds (Steve); her grandchildren, Lisa, Jeffrey, Benjamin, and Adam; and her great-grandchildren, Vincent, Leonardo, Stella, and Jasper. She was predeceased by her husband, and siblings William and Beatrice. Memorial information: A memorial service will be held at First Congregational Church of Westminster Saturday, June 27, at 2 p.m., immediately followed by a reception. Donations to First Congregational Church of Westminster, P.O. Box 122, Westminster, VT 05158. or to the Bellows Falls Senior Center, 18 Tuttle St., Bellows Falls, VT 05101.
• Barbara J. Howell, 87, of Bellows Falls. Died June 11, 2026, which was her 60th wedding anniversary, at Cedar Hill Health Care in Windsor. Barbara was born in Bellows Falls Jan. 28, 1939, the daughter of William and Mary (Ostrowski) Griffin. She attended schools in Bellows Falls and graduated from Bellows Falls High School. In the 1960s, she worked as flight stewardess for American Airlines. On June 11, 1966, she married Leo Howell in St. Peter’s Church in North Walpole, New Hampshire. He predeceased her in May 2025. She was a member of the Polish American Club in Bellows Falls. Barbara is survived by her daughter, Heather Howell-Golder and grandchild, Finn Golder and her brothers, Michael and William (Carol) Griffin. She was predeceased by her parents. Memorial information: There will be no calling hours. A funeral Mass will take place Saturday, June 20, at 1 p.m. at St. Charles Church in Bellows Falls, with burial to follow at St. Peter’s Cemetery in Drewsville, New Hampshire.
• Barbara Jean “Barbie” Kurkul, 64, of Saxtons River. Died peacefully at her home, surrounded by her family, on May 28, 2026. She was born Dec. 16, 1961, the youngest daughter of Barbara (Booth) and William T. Kurkul, and grew up on the family dairy farm in Westminster alongside her three sisters, a childhood that instilled in her a lifelong love for nature in all its beauty. Barbie graduated from Bellows Falls Union High School in 1979 and went on to attend the University of Vermont, where she graduated with a degree in agriculture. She was a graduate of the Katharine Gibbs School in Boston. She worked at a variety of jobs over the years, most involving interacting with people, which she enjoyed tremendously. She spent several years working on a horse farm in Maine. She worked at a number of local medical offices and later for Senior Solutions. Barbie was most recently employed by Recycle Away, providing customer service to sustainability-minded clients. She was an active participant in many local organizations, including Westminster Cares, the Saxtons River Nature Club, and her local book club. She volunteered as a stage manager with Main Street Arts, a role she loved. It was typical for Barbie to volunteer for “behind the scenes” jobs that entailed a lot of hard work outside the limelight. She spent much time volunteering for the community center at 24 Main, both inside and out. She was also a member of the Saxtons River Rec Committee. Barbie was a lover of cats and found homes and affection for her many furry friends over the years. She also loved reading, horses, nature, Paul Simon, the Rolling Stones, front porch sitting, and riding around with her beloved partner, Kenny. She was a bird enthusiast, collector of otherwise overlooked treasures, and creator of unique nicknames. She never passed a yard sale she didn’t want to stop at. Barbie loved traveling, having spent considerable time in Europe. She also hiked the Appalachian Trail. She loved working in her flower and vegetable gardens, creating beauty and serenity in her surroundings. She was a Vermont-certified Master Gardener and enjoyed sharing her knowledge and cuttings with her many friends and neighbors.She possessed a beautiful singing voice and was a spontaneous and spirited dancer. She was also a board game enthusiast, crafter, cookie decorator, and pesto maker extraordinaire. She was the family historian, a skilled photographer, event planner, adventure seeker, a skilled equestrian, and a lifelong learner. She loved her community and her community loved her back. She was almost always smiling. She was a booster of the greater Bellows Falls area and took great pride in her town for its character, beauty and history. She made her home and lived an enriching life in Saxtons River for more than 20 years. Perhaps most importantly, she was extraordinarily kind and thoughtful, always willing to lend a hand to those in need and provide some humor to those who needed positive energy. She never sought praise for all she did and was a truly authentic person. Barbie is survived by her life partner, Ken Lawrence, and his children, Mallory Smith (Tyson), and their children, Hadley and Holden, Grant Lawrence (Sarah Morse), and Hayden Lawrence (Kayla Perrotte), as well as her beloved cat, Kit. Her cherished cat, Ira, predeceased her. She also leaves her sisters, Karen Breslend (Mike) of Springfield, Vermont, Heidi Nowers (Donnie) of Westminster, and Holly Adams of Locust Grove, Virginia, and their families. She was adored and will be deeply missed by her six nieces and nephews: Jennie, Melissa, Billy, Brian, Brianna, and Kelsi, as well as her many great-nieces and nephews. Barbie was predeceased by her parents and her brother-in-law, Mike Adams. Memorial information: A private family graveside service was held on June 14. Donations to any local charity of your choice.
• Diane K. Merritt, 79, originally of Vernon. Died June 1, 2026, at her home in Northampton, Massachusetts. Diane was born Nov. 5, 1946 in Brattleboro, the daughter of Arnold “Jim”and Arlene (Kenney) Merritt. She attended the Vernon Elementary School and graduated from Brattleboro Union High School in 1964. She worked at the School for International Training in Brattleboro as a Spanish interpreter before attending the Boston Conservatory of Music, receiving her B.F.A. in 1970. She later went to Harvard University, receiving a M.Ed. with a concentration in developmental psychology in 1980. Diane worked as a research affiliate at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and, later, as a research psychologist at Boston University School of Medicine until she retired. Diane had a passion for dance, martial arts (receiving a 3rd degree black belt in Taekwondo), and nature walks at her beloved Look Memorial Park in Northampton. She leaves behind her brothers, David of Wilmington, North Carolina, and Dale of Vernon; and one niece, five nephews, three great-nieces and one great-nephew. Memorial information: Private graveside services will be held in Tyler Cemetery in Vernon at a later date. To offer condolences,visit atamaniuk.com.
• Jeffrey Gene Morse, 75, of Brattleboro. Died June 10, 2026, after a courageous battle with ALS. A devoted father, accomplished attorney, and respected member of his community, Jeffrey was born Feb. 27, 1951, in Colchester, the son of James Paterson Morse and Margie Alberta Scott Morse. At the time of his birth, his parents operated a dairy farm in North Hero, on Grand Isle. In the early 1950s, the family moved to Newton,New Jersey, where they continued farming. During this time, Jeffrey underwent eye surgery at the New Jersey Institute for the Blind. In 1956, the family returned to Vermont, settling in Brattleboro, where his father managed a farm in nearby Marlboro. Jeffrey was raised in Brattleboro and attended Green Street Elementary School, Brattleboro Junior High School, and Brattleboro Union High School, graduating in 1969. He was an outstanding high school football player who often said he was born to play football. He went on to earn a B.S. degree from Northeastern University in 1974, followed by his J.D. from Western New England University School of Law in 1978, where he graduated in the top 10% of his class. After passing the Vermont Bar, he was admitted to practice law in February 1979. Jeffrey began his legal career with Timothy J. O’Connor, and within two years became his sole partner. At O’Connor and Morse, he handled a broad range of criminal and civil litigation cases, earning a reputation for his integrity, work ethic, and sound judgment. In December 1984, Jeffrey joined Cersosimo Lumber Company, as general counsel and personal attorney to Anthony “Tony” Cersosimo. He worked closely with Tony Cersosimo to expand the company’s real estate development operations. His work included projects in Texas, Colorado, Idaho, all of the New England states, and New York State. In 1995, the real estate division, Southern Vermont Engineering (SVE), and the quarry operations were reorganized into Cersosimo Industries. Jeffrey served as General Manager from 1995 until his retirement in 2015. During his tenure, he led numerous Act 250 permitting efforts and oversaw the development of more than 200 homes across the tri-state area, including more than 50 in Brattleboro. Under his leadership, SVE grew rapidly and was recognized in 1997 by Vermont Business Magazine as the fastest-growing company in the state. Following his semi-retirement in 2015, Jeffrey returned to legal practice, joining Costello, Valente, & Gentry, where he focused primarily on real estate law alongside his longtime friend, Thomas Costello. He continued in this role until his full retirement in 2025. Jeffrey was predeceased by his parents. He is survived by his four beloved children: Emily Morse of Boston, Evan Morse of Shelburne, Vermont; Erin Morse of Keene, New Hampshire; and Elizabeth Morse of Brattleboro. He is also survived by his siblings: James and Gail Georgina Morse of Bradford, Doug and Linda Morse Molde of Johnson, John A. Morse of Auburndale, Florida, Susan Morse Pollica and Debra Esteves of Orlando, Florida, and Jerald Morse and Mark Rupsic of Orlando, Florida. He also leaves behind many beloved nieces and nephews. Jeffrey will be remembered for his deep commitment to his family, his profession, and his community. His legacy is one of integrity, dedication, and quiet strength; he will be greatly missed by all who knew him. Memorial information: A celebration of his life will be held at the Brattleboro Country Club Monday, June 22, from 3 to 7 p.m. Donations to the BUHS Football program in care of the Athletic Department at Brattleboro Union High School, 131 Fairground Rd., Brattleboro, VT 05301.To offer condolences, visit atamaniuk.com.
Services
• Committal rites and burial with full military honors for Edmund “Bunnum” R. LaFlamme Sr. will be conducted Saturday, June 20, at 10 a.m., in St. Michael’s Parish Cemetery. Edmund, a lifelong resident of Brattleboro, died Jan. 7, 2026 at Pine Heights in Brattleboro. To view his full obituary or offer condolences, visit atamaniuk.com.
• Graveside committal services for Florence Elizabeth Parmenter will be conducted Saturday, June 20, at noon, in Meeting House Hill Cemetery in Brattleboro. Florence, 89, of Brattleboro, died peacefully April 12, 2026, at Covenant Living of Keene, New Hampshire, following a period of declining health. To view her full obituary or offer condolences, visit atamaniuk.com.
• A service in celebration of the life of Roger Glenn Rehbein will be held Saturday, June 27, from 1 to 3 p.m., at Governor Hunt House, 322 Governor Hunt Rd., in Vernon. Roger, 76, of Putney, died May 19, 2026 at Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center in Lebanon, N.H. To view his full obituary or offer condolences, visit atamaniuk.com.
• A celebration of life will be held Aug. 15, 2026, from 1 to 4 p.m. at American Legion Post 5 in Brattleboro, for Pauline M. Thurber of Guilford, who died April, 22, 2026. RSVP no later than July 20 to Donna at 802-380-2395 or [email protected].
This Milestones item was submitted to The Commons.