All posts by hstauder

Edgar J. Fleury ’56

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Celebrating the life of my wonderful father, Edgar “Ed” Fleury, who passed away March 17, 2025 at The Carolton in Fairfield, CT at the age of 88! It’s amazing that even after having a stroke over 25 years ago he still maintained his loving, kind and positive attitude. We will miss him dearly, but now will be up in heaven with his wife Paula. We will not be hosting services at this time as he had particular wishes for his ashes which we will do this late spring.

Edgar Joseph Fleury, 88, formally of Northampton and Hatfield MA, was born in Holyoke MA, February 8, 1937, and was the son of the late Edgar J. Fleury, and Madeline (Scott) Fleury. He graduated from Saint Jerome high school and then opened The College Campus Flower shop. He also worked for many years as a sales person at Danco furniture in W. Hatfield. Ed and his wife Paula moved to Fairfield years ago to be closer to Lisa their daughter.

Ed was predeceased by his sister Betty Jane Mercier and leaves behind a daughter Lisa Massucci, son-in-law Chris Massucci, grandson, Luca Massucci and granddaughter Nina Massucci.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Smith College Greenhouse which was a favorite place for Ed! Please indicate in memory of Edgar Fleury to the Smith College Friends of Botanic Garden.

Posted in: 1950s

Judy (Openshaw) Findeisen ’50

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Longtime Killington resident and avid skier Judy O. Findeisen passed away on January 22nd, 2025, at the age of 92.

Born October 13th, 1932, in Newport, Rhode Island, Judy was the oldest of Dorothy and Arnold Openshaw’s three children. She grew up in Springfield, Massachusetts, swimming, horseback riding and skiing. It was while attending St. Lawrence University that she met and fell in love with Walter T.C. Findeisen. They were married July 8th, 1953, in Coronado, California.

In 1960, having moved from California to Long Island, New York, Judy and Walt purchased property in Killington, Vermont. In early 1962, with their two young sons and a dog, they moved to Vermont, living in a tent from early May until mid-October. By day, Judy worked in the Killington ski shop, while Walt was working trail crew. Nights and weekends were devoted to building a home. A year later they welcomed their daughter, Tami, into the new house in the woods.

Six short years later they were at it again, building and then operating Timbers Lodge. Judy ran the lodge including breakfast and dinner for the guests.

In addition to raising her family, Judy held many different jobs, including retail sales, school bus driver, bank teller, and vacation lodge owner/manager, chef, and housekeeper.

In 1976 Judy began her career in Real Estate working alongside her husband Walt at Martin Associates Mountain Real Estate in Killington, retiring in 2020.

Judy was very active in the small but growing Killington community. She was one of the founding members of the Sherburne Women’s Club and the Sherburne Co-operative Nursery School.

She was an active member of the Killington Ski Club – helping to start what is now the annual ski sale. She was elected as Justice of the Peace in 1987 and served through 2010.

Later she enjoyed traveling with Walt and friends and was an active member of the Rutland Garden Club.

Judy is survived by her son Walter (Miriam), son Jeff (Kim), daughter Tami, grandchildren Courtney (Nate), Marc, and Sarah, and great-grandson Parker. She is also survived by her sister Lass ’56 and sisters-in-law, Babs, Ginny, Janice, Pam, and many nieces, nephews.

She was pre-deceased by her husband Walt, her brother Jim and brothers-in-law John and Charlie.

In leu of flowers please consider donating to the Shriners Hospital for Children, the Wounded Warriors Foundation or a charity of your choice.

There are no services at this time.

Posted in: 1950s

Kenneth R. Rankin ’93

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Mr. Kenneth R. Rankin Sr. of West Orange, NJ passed away suddenly at the age of 50 on Saturday, June 3, 2023. There will be a funeral service celebrated at the Biondi Funeral Home of Nutley on Monday, June 12 at 11:00 a.m. Visitation will be from 10:00 a.m. to time of service. The interment will be at Rosedale Cemetery, 408 Orange Road, Orange, NJ.

Kenneth was born in Orange, NJ to Robert and Carol (née Bomar) Rankin on April 29th, 1973. As a young child he was given the nickname of Kenny that continued through his life. Kenny was a graduate of St. Benedict’s Prep Class of ‘92 and during his education he was also a basketball standout. After having a gap-year he made the noble decision to follow in his father’s footsteps by joining the Newark Police Department. Leading to a long and eventful career with a legacy continued by his two sons. Kenny retired from the Newark Police Department in 2018 with the hopes of spending more time with his family and traveling the world.

Not only did Kenny excel at basketball, but he had a love for the sport of golf and was a diehard Dallas Cowboys fan. From a young age Kenny was a self-proclaimed aviation geek and enjoyed building model airplanes. He could also tell which type of aircraft was flying overhead by simply listening to the passing engines. Kenny was a dog person and had a passion for raising and training his multiple dogs throughout his life. He also had an illustrious social and travel life leading to an abundance of friends from all walks of life. Kenny loved traveling to different places. We are sure he will not rest in peace but continue his travels even more so now.

He is survived by his four loving children, Prince Rankin, Tiana Rankin, Kenneth Rankin Jr. and Maya Rankin, his two cherished grand-daughters, both of his devoted parents, his two dear brothers Richard and Thomas Zellars and a host of aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews and his dog.

Posted in: 1990s

Wendy Butler Walsh ’62

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Wendy Butler Walsh, 80, of Agawam, MA, recently of Northampton, and formerly of Madison, CT, peacefully passed away on February 22, 2025, surrounded by family. Wendy was born at Cooley Dickinson Hospital in Northampton on September 22, 1944, daughter of the late John Parker and Alice Remington (Remi) Butler.

Wendy graduated from Northampton School for Girls in 1962 and then attended the University of Massachusetts, where she received a Bachelors in English. She continued her education at Southern Connecticut State University, receiving a Masters in Education.

Wendy was a paraprofessional at Daniel Hand High School in Madison for many years. She was loved by her students not only for her excellent tutoring skills, but for her kindness, patience, and constant support, particularly in the areas of English and Math. During summers and after retiring from Daniel Hand, Wendy could often be found tutoring students privately at her dining room table.

As a girl Wendy spent summers at the family beach house on Long Island Sound in Madison. She loved the ocean and developed her life-long love of swimming there. She could outlast anybody swimming long distances. In the mid-1970s Wendy began her 40-year residence on the Shoreline. She played tennis in multiple competitive groups, both singles and doubles. She was only 5 foot 2, but she had a heck of a serve! Her love of poetry was legendary. No book in her library was more worn and tattered than a collection of Emily Dickinson poems. She had eclectic taste in music, from James Taylor to Aaron Copland. Wendy also spent time gardening and doing yoga. She was bright, loving, thoughtful, empathic, quirky, original, hilariously funny, and impossible not to adore.

Wendy returned to Northampton about 10 years ago, where she could often be found with a tennis racket in one hand and a Friendly’s Coffee Milkshake in the other. A perfect day would end with a piece of blueberry pie. The time she spent with family and friends, both in person and on the phone, was precious time for her.

Wendy is survived by her two sons, Jay Walsh and his partner, Marie Markovic, of California, and Andy Walsh and his wife, Tracey, of Alabama; their two daughters, Riley and Shay, of Alabama, as well as son-in-law Bailey; her sister, Kim Butler ’64, of Branford, Connecticut; her sister Laurie Foley ’65, of Northampton; and her three children, Jennifer, Christopher ’93 and Liz ’94 and her husband Luis and son, Luca. In addition, she leaves Christopher’s daughter, Isla (the newest member of the family at one years old), and Ellie Gottschalk, Jennifer’s daughter. Wendy was predeceased by her beloved cat Casper. She adored all of them.

Rest in peace, dear Wendy. You will be sorely missed.

In lieu of flowers, please go read a poem today.

Posted in: 1960s

Lee A. MacVaugh ’60

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Lee Allen MacVaugh, longtime resident of Washington, DC passed away peacefully at home on January 17, 2024.

Lee was born October 4, 1941 in Cleveland, OH and educated at Ohio Wesleyan and American University.

As an educator and avid reader, he shared his love of history and economics with many students over the years at Sidwell Friends School and several others in the DC area. He loved teaching and playing and coaching tennis. He also taught summer courses at Georgetown University and was a substitute at Woodrow Wilson High School until his retirement.

Much loved and adored by his family, Lee is survived by daughter Ashley Paine MacVaugh, son Dugan Francis MacVaugh and sister Melissa Lee.

Posted in: 1960s

David S. Gould ’64

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David Stanton “ Zack” Gould, born November 26, 1945 in Worcester, Massachusetts, died December 29, 2024.

Zack spent five years at Williston Academy where he lettered in soccer and lacrosse. He attended the University of Massachusetts and settled in Woods Hole, Massachusetts long enough to become a skilled, and eventually, itinerant mason. Zack lived in Cambridge until an amiable divorce prompted moving to Santa Fe, where he got married, acquiring two fine daughters as well as his wife, Mechele. Along with fireplaces, he became a skillful jeweler and was fine guitar player.

Lung and bone cancer did him in. It is not a cliche to state that he died surrounded by his family without undue pain.

Posted in: 1960s

Gwendolyn Keiver-Hewett ’75

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It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved wife, mother, sister, grandmother and friend Gwendolyn Keiver-Hewett, 67, of Salem, MA. Wendy passed away on February 3, 2025 after a courageous battle with cancer, leaving behind a profound void in the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing her.

Wendy was an extraordinary woman whose strength, warmth, and unwavering love touched the lives of everyone around her. She will be lovingly remembered by her husband Thomas Hewett; her children, Sadie Barlow (husband Kevin), and Tyler VanVeghten; and her grandchildren Emma, Liam and Olivia. She is also survived by her sisters Pam Rodgers, Nancy Goodrow (husband Patrick), Patti Heintzelman (husband Webb); her stepchildren Danny (wife Kara) and Rob, and grandchildren Molly, Ryan, Dylan and Cody. Wendy will be deeply missed by her many nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins and dear friends.

Wendy is joined in rest by her parents Pat and Bob Keiver along with many other loved ones that were part of her life. Her family, both by blood and heart, was vast, reflecting the deep connections she fostered and the unwavering love she shared.

Among Wendy’s most significant accomplishments was raising her two children and later, her grandchildren, instilling in them kindness, resilience and determination. Family was at the center of her world and she dedicated herself to ensuring their happiness. She began her career in the Marblehead Public Schools, transitioning into computers and technology at Salem State University, and ultimately pursued her true passion as a Massage Therapist, where her healing energy shined.

Beyond being a mother, Wendy was a devoted wife, sister, and friend. Her laughter, wit, generosity, and vibrant spirit filled every room. She formed lifelong friendships, many of which began in childhood and continued through her deep connection with Fleur de Lis camp for girls. Whether playing sports, attending Green Mountain College, working at the Beach Club or playing softball, Wendy brought joy and camaraderie to every experience. She was always ready with a bit of mischief and an unwavering offer of support.
She cherished her time at Squam Lake, loved visiting beaches on the Northshore, and enjoyed watching storms, supporting small local restaurants, and driving her jeep with the top down. Her love of beaches and new adventures found her swimming in Greece, Hawaii, and French Polynesia. She had an unmatched sweet tooth and was in charge of bringing desserts and her iconic banana bread to every holiday gathering. Wendy’s dogs Max, Marley and Finn were more than pets, each with their own personality but sharing equal adoration for her as their “person.”

A passionate sports enthusiast, Wendy approached life with the same energy and passion that she brought to every game. Whether cheering from the sidelines or participating herself, her enthusiasm for sport and competition was infectious. She taught us all the importance of strength – not only physically but emotionally – facing life’s challenges with unwavering resilience and grace.

Wendy’s legacy of love, strength and spirit will continue to live on in the hearts of her family, friends, and all who knew her. A service to honor Wendy’s life will be held on February 21st at 10:30 AM at Old North Church in Marblehead, MA.

While we will miss Wendy dearly, we take comfort in knowing that her love and light will continue to guide us always. In Lieu of flowers please consider making a donation to the Kaplan Hospice House in Danvers, MA or Fleur de Lis Camp for girls in Fitzwilliam, NH.

Posted in: 1970s

Christopher J. Simard ’75

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Christopher J. Simard, 67, of Candler, North Carolina, died at home February 14, 2025 after a prolonged illness. Born March 26, 1957 in South Hadley, Massachusetts, Chris was the beloved son of Paul E. Simard and Allyene P. Simard and cherished sibling to Paul Simard, Peter Simard, Jane Simard, and Jonathan Simard.

Chris was known for his big heart and his passion for music, the Blues in particular, and in his younger days was a regular fixture in the Asheville music scene, often welcomed on stage by national acts to add his considerable skills on the blues harp to their show.

Chris graduated from Williston Northampton School, and attended University of North Carolina at Asheville.

Chris is pre-deceased by parents Paul and Allyene, and brother Paul, and survived by siblings Peter, Jane, and Jonathan, and his many dear friends in the Asheville community.

Rest in peace dear brother, you will be missed.

Posted in: 1970s

Michael Chan ’66

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Michael Chan passed away in his home in Dover, New Hampshire, on December 2, 2024, at the age of 80, shortly after being diagnosed with cancer. Born Chan Tin Foo on September 21, 1944, in Hong Kong, Michael was part of the Tan lineage.

Michael’s educational journey began at the Diocesan Boys’ School in Hong Kong. In 1965, he was sent to the United States to study at Williston Academy in East Hampton, Massachusetts. He later graduated from the University of New Hampshire, where he pursued a degree in hospitality, ultimately leading to a long career in the restaurant business. In 1999, he proudly became a naturalized citizen of the United States relinquishing his British citizenship.

Michael served as the general manager in Brockton for the well-known WeyLu establishment prior to coming to the Seacoast region to make his permeant home and owning his own restaurants. His commitment to excellence in hospitality was matched only by his unwavering work ethic and thriftiness, values he held throughout his life.

Michael was not only hardworking, but lived simply, and was generous to those around him. His heart was especially tied to the Nicolson family of Enfield, NH, who ‘adopted’ him during his time as a young student. Michael cherished the years spent with John and Karin Nicolson, celebrating holidays, and creating lasting memories with their children and family; John Nicolson III ’70 (deceased), Robert Nicolson and Karin Tarring. Though his parents predeceased him, their love and influence remained in his life.

He leaves behind a close circle of friends, including Amy Sherwood of Amesbury, MA, Lori Lander of Cape Coral, Florida, and Anne Sy and Eddie Ng of Dover, NH. No services are planned. His desire was to be cremated and rest in a beautiful place.

Posted in: 1960s

Daniel D. Carpenter, Jr. ’68

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It is with great sadness that we announce the death of Daniel Dechert Carpenter, Jr., 74, of Hamden, CT and Temagami, Ontario, on January 1, 2025.

He was predeceased by his parents, Daniel Dechert Carpenter, Sr. and Jane Winslow Conyers of Pembroke, Bermuda and his brother William Stratton Carpenter ’65 of Albuquerque, New Mexico. Survivors include Peter Chapin Carpenter ’72 (Pembroke, Bermuda), Deborah Carpenter Jerome ’73 (Barrington, RI), Jennifer Carpenter Reid ’77 (Joseph) (Easthampton, MA), Clare Jerome (Sarasota, FL), Jennie Jerome Cybowicz (Adrian) (Cranston, RI), Gates Jerome (Sarasota, FL) and Sam Jerome (Hannah) (Franklin, MA) and Kristin Carpenter (Albuquerque, NM.) He also leaves his beloved great niece Natalie and great nephew Milo Cybowicz.

Born and raised in Bermuda and Easthampton, Dan graduated from Williston Academy, class of 1968. As an ESU student, he attended The Gresham’s School in England before matriculating at Dartmouth College, Class of 1973. Dan was a devoted educator at The Eaglebrook School and expert canoeist and guide through the wilderness of northern Ontario, where he had a lifelong association with Keewaydin Canoe Camps. Over the course of his life, he inspired thousands of students and campers from all over North America who had the good fortune to know him as teacher, mentor and friend. During his retirement years, Dan immersed himself in his passions for organic gardening and photography of flora and fauna. He continued to enjoy happy summers in the provincial forest surrounding his family’s island on Lake Temagami.

Memorial Service will be scheduled at a later date. Arrangements are in care of Beecher and Bennett Funeral Home, 2300 Whitney Avenue, Hamden. Memorial Contributions may be made in his honor to: The Carpenter Long Trip Fund at the Keewaydin Foundation, 500 Rustic Lane, Salisbury, VT 05769 or at www.keewaydin.org .

Posted in: 1960s