Category Archives: Class Decades

Margot (Tanner) Schreer ’61

Margot Louise Schreer, age 83, of Webster Township, MI, passed away peacefully on August 30, 2026 at Trinity Health Ann Arbor Hospital, surrounded by the love of her husband, three children, and two grandchildren. Margot was born on September 14, 1942, in Grosse Pointe, MI, the daughter of Charles and Margaret (Harris) Tanner.

Margot was raised in Birmingham, MI and spent many summers horseback riding at Chippewa Ranch in Weidman, MI and enjoyed skiing in the winter months. Margot graduated from Northampton School for Girls in Northampton, MA. She then attended Lasell Junior College in Newton, MA before returning to Michigan, where she met her future husband and love of her life, Joachim “John” Schreer, while they both worked at Jacobson’s. They fell madly in love which has stood the test of time and many real life challenges. They were married on August 1, 1964 and just recently celebrated 62 years together. They began their family in Ann Arbor, MI and later in 1974 moved out to the Dexter area, in Webster Township, on an acre of land where they still live today. Margot was a loving daughter, sister, wife, mother, mother-in-law, grandmother, and friend.

Margot, along with John, planned many family camping vacations in northern Michigan and around the United States, and in later years traveled abroad to visit extended family in Germany and traveled around Europe. Margot viewed travel as an important part of education and instilled those values in her children and grandchildren. She fully supported her children’s interests as they spent summer months at Blue Lake Fine Arts Camp and swimming and diving at the Ann Arbor Country Club. Margot put her family first and foremost and never let an opportunity to experience something new pass them by. Margot was very active in her children’s lives, serving as a Girl Scout Leader, member of the band boosters, and actively supporting all of their school activities. Margot always enjoyed having a home full of family and friends and often extended her hospitality to exchange students and being a host family for traveling groups such as Up With People.

Margot enjoyed many different career roles. First as a travel agent, then as a bookkeeper and real estate agent, before returning to travel selling ski trips through Rocky Mountain Vacations alongside her husband John. Margot loved being outdoors, especially working in her vegetable and flower gardens. She enjoyed canning and freezing the bounty from her garden, and she also enjoyed cooking and baking. Margot loved watching sports, from golf to Formula 1 racing to U of M Football. She was always very social and a friend to many. Most friends became family and she loved telling stories and sharing her life with others. Her engaging smile, optimism and warm laugh made everyone feel like family.

For the past 26 years she has been a devoted grandmother traveling to the Philadelphia area or halfway trips, to see her grandchildren as often as possible. Picking them up from school, watching them play their sports, taking them back to school shopping, playing board games, and just spending time together gave Margot so much joy.

Margot is survived by her loving and devoted husband Joachim “John” Schreer; three children, Stephanie (Joseph) Dalton of Abington, PA, Paul Schreer of Oakland, CA, and Jennifer (B) Yawson of Albion, MI; two grandchildren, Hannah and Jonah Dalton of Abington, PA; and her brother, David (Joan) Tanner of Earlysville, VA.

A celebration of Margot’s life will be held on Sunday, October 25, 2026 from 2-5 pm at Zingerman’s Roadhouse restaurant, 2501 Jackson Ave, Ann Arbor, MI. There will be no formal presentation, but rather a special gathering of friends and family to share delicious appetizers, touching stories and memories that tie all of our lives together. Please drop by and join the family anytime between 2-5 pm to celebrate Margot’s life as a daughter, sister, wife, mother, mother-in-law, grandmother, and friend. A private burial of ashes will take place at Great Lakes National Cemetery in Holly, MI on Monday, October 26, 2026.

In lieu of flowers a donation could be made in Margot’s memory to the Gift Of Life Foundation.

Lewis Rabinovitz ’53

Lewis Rabinovitz Esq, age 90 of West Hartford, Connecticut, passed away peacefully, September 8, 2026, surrounded by his family. He was born on November 14, 1935, in Hartford, the beloved son of the late Benjamin and Sarah Rabinovitz.

He was the devoted husband of Patricia Kubick Rabinovitz, with whom he shared 27 years of marriage filled with love, companionship, devotion, and mutual care. Lewis was also a loving father and grandfather who cherished his family deeply. He is survived by his children Julie Rabinovitz (Jeremy) and Amy Guttman (Rob), and stepchildren Matthew Burelle (Connie), Jonathan Burelle (Zoe), and Elizabeth Derenzo (Jay); his grandchildren, Abby, Max, Zach, Simon, Tatiana, Michael, Nicholas, Paige, Tyler, Gregory, Andrew, Brooke, Cameron, and Lauren; and his adored “grand-puppies,” who brought him so much joy. He also leaves behind his brothers, Stephen Rabinovitz (Judi) and Harold Rabinovitz ’68.

Lewis lived a remarkable life shaped by intellectual curiosity, professional achievement, compassion, and a deep commitment to helping others. A graduate of Williston Academy in 1953, he went on to Yale College, where he graduated magna cum laude and was elected to Phi Beta Kappa in 1957. He earned his law degree from Harvard Law School in 1960 and began a legal career in Hartford that spanned more than 60 years. He ultimately completed his career at Pullman & Comley, where he earned the respect and admiration of colleagues and clients alike.

Throughout his life, Lewis believed strongly in giving back to his community and helping those less fortunate. He was the first recipient of the Youth Leadership Award of the Greater Hartford Jewish Federation, a past president and life officer of the Mandell Jewish Community Center, and a longtime board member of the Greater Hartford Jewish Foundation. He also served on the Board of Trustees of the Williston Northampton School and was a past member of the Young Leadership Cabinet of the United Jewish Appeal. He helped lead an interfaith pilgrimage to Israel, reflecting his lifelong commitment to building understanding and strengthening connections among communities.

Lewis’s childhood was deeply shaped by the Holocaust, and the experiences of his family helped instill in him a lasting devotion to the security and welfare of the State of Israel. Throughout his life, he remained dedicated to the continuity of Jewish life and to ensuring that Jewish institutions would remain strong and vibrant for generations to come.

Above all, Lewis valued the people in his life. He took great pride in his family and found tremendous joy in the time he spent with his children, grandchildren, and “grand-puppies.”

The family is deeply grateful to Benjamin Adu Asare for his extraordinary care, compassion, and friendship over the past two years. His dedication went far beyond caregiving, and he became a dear friend to Lew. His kindness, love, and friendship will always be remembered.

Lewis will be remembered for his accomplished mind, his strong principles, his generosity toward others, and, most importantly, the love he had for his family and community. His was a life of purpose and service, and the impact he made on the people and institutions he cared about will continue for generations.

A funeral will be held on Thursday, September 10, at 11:00am, with Rabbi James Rosen officiating, in the chapel of the Beth El Temple, 2626 Albany Ave., West Hartford. Interment will follow at the Beth El Cemetery, 51 Jackson Street, Avon. Following interment, the family will receive friends, for Shiva and a meal of condolence, back at the Beth El Temple, social hall. The family will also receive friends on Friday, from 1-3:00pm at the McAuley Retirement Community, 275 Steele Rd., Bldg. B, (aka 19th hole) in West Hartford. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to your charity of choice. Funeral arrangements provided by Hebrew Funeral Associates, West Hartford.

George H. Burtch ’58

George H. Burtch, 86, passed away early Monday morning, September 7, 2026, in Watertown, New York.

He was born, February 12, 1940, in the town of LeRay, NY, son of Clarence H. and Ethel E. Burns Burtch. He graduated from Alexandria Central High School and attended both Williston Academy and St. Lawrence University.

He was a real estate broker for many years and was also president of Putnam and Kellett, Inc. Insurance Agency.

George was past president of the Alexandria Bay Chamber of Commerce, Past president of the Alexandria Bay Rotary Club, served two terms as trustee for the Village of Alexandria Bay, an honorary member of the Alexandria Bay Fire Department, a member of the Clayton Fire Department, volunteered at the Cape Vincent Correctional Facility, and a member of the American Correctional Association Union.

Marriages to Jill Eggleton, Nancy Wimmer and Donna Eggleston, all ended in divorce.

He is survived by a son, Robert G. (Jennifer Simpson), Alexandria Bay, three daughters, Elizabeth “Liz” Burtch, Rochester, NY, Elaine “Lainey” (Dave) Scott, Ranson, WV, and Ellen (Tim) Connors, Oak Island, NC, five grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren. He was predeceased by a grandson, Jessie Monica.

Calling hours will be held Wednesday, September 9th from 5-8pm at the Costello Funeral Home, Alexandria Bay. The funeral will be held Thursday, September 10th, at 11am at the funeral home with Rev. Jeff McIlrath, officiating. Burial will follow at Barnes Settlement Cemetery.

Memorial donations may be made in George’s name to the Reformed Church of the Thousand Isles, 54 Church St, Alexandria Bay, NY 13607 or the Alexandria Bay Fire Department, 110 Walton St, Alexandria Bay, NY 13607.

Charles W. Fairbrother ’63

Charles “Charlie” Williams Fairbrother passed away on August 23, 2026, in Mystic, Connecticut, at the age of 81. Charlie was born in Westerly, Rhode Island, on December 27, 1944, to Billings and Margaret Fairbrother. He grew up in Stonington, Connecticut, alongside his older brother, Dean.

He attended high school at The Williston Northampton School in Easthampton, Massachusetts, earned his bachelor’s degree at Bethany College in West Virginia, and completed his master’s degree at the University of Rhode Island. In 1971, Charlie married Elizabeth Groton of Stonington. Together, they raised their two sons, Chaz and John, in Canterbury, Connecticut. Charlie dedicated his professional life to education, spending the majority of his career teaching middle school history and geography in the Plainfield Public School System. Deeply involved in the Canterbury community, he served as a volunteer firefighter, coached Little League baseball for his sons, led as a Boy Scout Scoutmaster, and later served as president of the Canterbury Historical Society.

Following the tragic passing of Elizabeth in 2002, Charlie remained active in both his teaching career and community life. He was a dedicated member of the Wadawanuck Yacht Club in Stonington, serving on numerous committees and leading as President of the Tennis Committee. In 2003, Charlie married Jane Simmons Kennedy. He retired from teaching in 2006, after which he and Jane settled in Ledyard, Connecticut, enjoying their retirement years in the Stonington area they both loved so dearly.

Charlie is survived by his son, Chaz Fairbrother; his son and daughter-in-law, John and Marlene Fairbrother; his two cherished grandchildren, Makenna and Davis Fairbrother; his brother and sister-in-law, Dean ’62 and Judith Fairbrother; and his cousin, Prudence Meehan. He was preceded in death by his parents, Billings and Margaret Fairbrother; his first wife, Elizabeth Groton Fairbrother; and his second wife, Jane Simmons Kennedy Fairbrother.

Services for Charlie will be held on Saturday, September 26th at 3pm, at Calvary Episcopal Church, 27 Church Street, Stonington, CT, 06378. A private burial will take place at another time, and no formal reception will follow.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Charlie’s honor to the American Cancer Society.

Stephen D. Newman ’81

Stephen D. Newman passed on July 2, 2026 at his family home in Newbury, NH at the age of 63.

Steve was born in Concord, MA to Robert (“Bob”) and Barbara (“Bee”) Newman (née Eastman), joining his four older sisters – Deb, Laurie, Jackie, and Jen. Throughout Steve’s childhood, the family lived in Acton, MA and Exeter, NH. He graduated from Williston Northampton School in 1981, where he enjoyed playing lacrosse.

After spending a year working, Steve enrolled at New England College (NEC) in Henniker, NH, where he met the love of his life, Ellen Brownson. He went on to earn a Bachelor’s degree in Forestry and a master’s degree in Geospatial Science from the University of New Hampshire (UNH). He spent 10 years at UNH’s Earth, Oceans, and Space Center before working in the private sector for several years. He then spent the remainder of his career at the Army Corps of Engineers’ Cold Regions Research and Engineering Laboratory (CRREL) in Hanover, NH, where he served as Chief of Terrain and Ice Engineering.

After NEC, Steve and Ellen went on to live throughout New England, eventually settling in Kensington, NH where they began raising their three children – Paige, Travis, and Anna. In 2003, the family moved to Newbury, NH where Ellen remains to this day.

Steve’s greatest joy was spending time with his family, especially on Lake Massasecum at the family Camp. He was a devoted steward of the family property, and lived to hunt, swim and enjoy the land. In recent years, he also fell in love with Lake Sunapee, where he found an unexpected community of neighbors and friends who brought him great joy.

Steve was a talented woodworker and a true jack-of-all-trades who could fix anything and solve any technical challenge. He was also a devoted fan of all Boston sports. Most of all, Steve was loved and respected wherever he went. He had many communities over the years, from professional to personal, and he was held in the highest regard in all of them.

Steve is predeceased by his parents; his mother- and father-in-law, Phyllis and Harold; and his brother-in-law, Keith.

He is survived by his wife, Ellen; his children, Paige, Travis, and Anna; his granddaughter, Bonnie; his son-in-law, Zack; his four sisters; his sister- and brother-in-law, Lori and Joel; his beloved dog, Goose; and many more family members and friends who loved him deeply.

A funeral service will be held on Thursday, July 9, 2026 at 10:00 A.M. at The First Baptist Church in New London, NH, with a celebration to follow at the Appleseed Restaurant in Bradford, NH. All are welcome to attend and celebrate Steve’s life.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Lake Massasecum Improvement Association – checks can be mailed to LMIA, PO Box 15, Bradford, NH 03221.

Michael S. Smernoff ’65

Michael Stuart Smernoff, 79, passed away peacefully on July 7, 2026, in Fernandina Beach, Florida. Born on March 9, 1947, Michael lived a life marked by dedication, love, and an easy-going nature that endeared him to all who knew him.

Michael’s academic journey began at The Williston Northampton School in Easthampton, Massachusetts, where he graduated as Valedictorian. He continued his education at Yale University earning a Bachelor’s Degree in English Literature and an MBA from Rutgers University, laying the foundation for a successful career. He worked with Wometco Enterprises in Coral Gables, Florida, before serving as Comptroller and Vice President of Operations at the Tallahassee Democrat. Later, he became Financial Director at Tri-Eagle Sales until his retirement in 2013. At which time, Michael decided he wasn’t quite ready for the full relaxation of retirement, so he became a substitute teacher with Leon County Schools.

A devoted family man, Michael is survived by his loving wife Leslie Smernoff; his daughters Jessica Smernoff-Rose (Singing Arrow) and Megan Smernoff; his twin grandsons Brendan and Gabriel; and his brother Richard Smernoff. He was predeceased by his parents, Arnold Louis Smernoff and Goldie Belsky Smernoff.

Michael’s passions extended beyond his professional life. An avid animal lover, he cherished the companionship of his three dogs-Goldie, Georgia, and Lulu-and his cat London. His love for travel took him to breathtaking destinations such as Alaska, Croatia, Ireland, and along the Danube River. A sports enthusiast through and through, Michael was a lifelong Boston Red Sox fan and cheered for numerous NCAA and NFL teams including UGA, FSU, UM, the New England Patriots, and the New York Giants. A talented pianist with an ear for classical music, he often played pieces by Beethoven, Mozart, and Bach from memory.

Michael’s warmth and dedication left an indelible mark on those fortunate enough to know him. May his memory bring comfort to all who mourn his passing.

Richard T. Dann ’59

Richard (Dick) Dann passed away peacefully on January 14, 2026, after a short illness. He was born in NYC on March 1, 1941, to Edward and Edith Gearing Dann. He grew up in several places, Taunton, Springfield and Pittsfield, Mass. Dick, as a teenager, went to Williston Northampton School, then on to Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI) in Mass. where he received his engineering degree. He also attended ROTC while in college, then joined the army for active duty as a second lieutenant. Proudly, he served as commanding officer for the 83 Ordinance Company. After discharge, Dick joined Pratt & Whitney Aircraft in East Hartford. In 1973, he was employed by Penton Publishing in Cleveland, Ohio, as the Assistant Editor of Machine Design Magazine and resided in Westlake, Ohio, with his wife and two sons. In 1988, Dick returned to CT, where he worked at Integrated Custom Software. Dick and Charlene then raised their family in Glastonbury. Close to retirement, Cromwell became their home, where Dick was employed by Cyber Research.

Music was his great love. As a child, he fondly remembered walking around the piano singing with his cousins, as his grandma Gearing played. In college, he started organ lessons and played at several church services. He was the choir director for the United Church of Christ in Columbia, CT, for several years. In 1970, he joined a barbershop chorus, The Silk City Chorus, where he was a member of a quartet. His quartet sang for The Mountain Laurel Chapter of Sweet Adelines and that is where he met the love of his life, Sweet Adeline, Charlene. During their married life, Dick continued singing both in barbershop and church choirs. He always harmonized with his cousins at family events, which was a welcome tradition. After retirement, he also continued organ lessons with Dr. Angela Salcedo, which he loved. He was very knowledgeable about choral music and joined The New England Chamber Choir for a few years. For 38 years, until his death, Dick sang in the Chancel Choir at First Church of Glastonbury. In 2001, he was particularly proud to be chair of the organ committee, being responsible for the purchase of the magnificent Schoenstein Organ.

In their retirement years, Dick and Charlene traveled to see their sons in Maryland and Georgia. They traveled yearly to Florida and Lakeside, Ohio, capturing many moments together of ocean views and sunsets at Lake Erie. When not traveling, they were employed by CDS within Costco, serving samples and having delightful conversations with customers. This job was a special joy to both of them!

Dick was a kind, loving, and gentle husband, father, grandfather, uncle, leaving his wife of 52 years, Charlene Lanza Dann; two sons, Geoffrey Dann and his wife Tracy of Lilburn, Georgia and Anthony Dann and his partner Amanda Lang of Riverdale, Maryland; and three grandchildren, Specialist Logan Dann, Maya Dann and Parker Dann. He was predeceased by his three loving cousins, Thomas Gearing, Alida Vasso, and Dorothy Frieler. He will be fondly missed by his family, nieces and nephews, friends and choir members.

The family would like to give heartfelt thanks to the staff of Water’s Edge Health Care in Middletown. Dick was given excellent care by Sandra, Keanadre, Alexis, Carl, Tyler and Aleshia, plus others not known.

A celebration of his life will be held at First Church of Christ, 2183 Main Street, Glastonbury, CT on February 21 at 11:00 a.m. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in his honor to the Music Program at First Church, Glastonbury.

Stephen M. Dings ’84

Stephen M. Dings, 60, of Hingham, MA, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his family on April 22, 2026.

Born in Boston, MA, to Sandra (Hopkins) Dings and the late John L. Dings. Attended Holderness Academy, Scituate High School, Williston Northampton School, Babson College, and the Babson MBA Program. Stephen was a Financial Professional with JP Morgan Private Bank and cared deeply about his clients and was known for his transparent manner and tireless work ethic.

Stephen was an avid skier and car enthusiast, and he also enjoyed cooking, boating, and fishing. In 2006, he won third place in the Monster Shark Fishing Tournament.

Survived by mother Sandra Dings, wife Elizabeth (Crowley) Dings, and children Thomas Jay Dings of New York, and Stephen M. Dings Jr. of Arlington, MA.

A memorial service will be held on Tuesday April 28, 2026, at 11am at Old Ship Church 90 Main Street Hingham MA 02043. Burial will follow at Hingham Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations can be made in Stephen’s name to New North Church, 1 Lincoln Street, Hingham, MA 02043.

David B. Fenn ’47

David Bryce Fenn, devoted husband, father, engineer, and lifelong sailor, passed away peacefully, May 5, 2026, at the age of 97.

Born on October 26, 1928, David lived a life defined by curiosity and quiet accomplishment. He graduated from the University of Rochester where he met his wife Virginia Ogden. Together they worked at NASA Lewis Research Center (now named Glenn). Virginia retired to raise their three children.

David continued his work with NASA at Lewis in Cleveland where he contributed to early advancements in jet engine and aerospace design during a formative era in American aviation.

Midway through his career, David transferred to Plum Brook Station near Sandusky, OH, where one of the nation’s largest vacuum chambers for deep space simulation was completing construction. He helped commission the new facility and then became Branch Head for an engineering group working on projects using the new facility.

Later, David worked within NASA’s wind energy program, where he was an early and steadfast advocate for three-bladed wind turbine designs, an approach that would ultimately become the industry standard.

Following Virginia’s untimely passing in 1974, David later married Elizabeth Ogden MacBeth. Elizabeth, who had been widowed and had raised three children in Vestal, New York, moved to Ohio, where she and David shared many years together.

At the age of 50, David chose early retirement, turning his focus to family, craftsmanship, and the water he loved. He expanded his cottage into a home on Johnson’s Island, complete with a second-floor sail loft where he made sails for racing boats. He is a past Commodore of Sandusky Sailing Club.

David was deeply committed to his community and faith. He served on several civic boards in his community. He was an active member of Huron Presbyterian Church, where he donated countless hours in service to the church and its congregation.

An avid woodworker, David spent many hours in his shop, happily building windmills and projects for his family, friends and neighbors. In his later years, David enjoyed walking around the island with his camera and capturing photos of the beautiful wildlife. He particularly loved eagles, great blue herons, and the annual appearance of the August lilies.

David was preceded in death by his first wife Virginia Ogden and his second wife Elizabeth Ogden. He is survived by his children, Nancy (Matthew) Buderer, Katherine (William) Thomas, and Tom (Marta) Fenn; and his stepchildren, Debbie (Jerry) Sullivan and Tom (Linda) MacBeth, and grandchildren, Chris, Brittany, Teresa, Bryce, Andy, Ian, and Nathan, and great grandchildren James, Amelia, Charlotte, Eleanor, and Hadley. He will be remembered for his intellect, integrity, craftsmanship, and the steady example he set for those who know him.

Funeral Services will begin at 11am on Friday, May 15, 2026 at First Presbyterian Church, 225 Williams St., Huron, OH 44839, where the family will receive friends beginning at 10am. Burial will be in Scott Union Cemetery, Huron, OH. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations be made to First Presbyterian Church of Huron in David Fenn’s memory.

Virginia (Nickerson) Cooney ’47

Virginia “Ginny” Nickerson Cooney, 96, died peacefully on Oct. 22, 2025 after a short illness.

Virginia grew up in Greenville, Maine and graduated from the University of Maine with a degree in education prior to working as a second-grade teacher in Beverly, Mass. She married the love of her life, James Cooney.

They became long-term residents of Falmouth, where they raised their family. Virginia was a loving and devoted wife and mother. Eventually, she moved to Brunswick where she spent her widowhood. She was beautiful inside and out with an endearing, radiant smile. She was the matriarch of our family and was extraordinarily generous with her love.

Virginia had many passions. She was a puzzle master at Thornton Oaks Retirement Community. She was a voracious reader. She loved dogs and bred champion Weimaraner’s. Virginia was intellectually curious, loved to travel, visit new places and meet new people. She always had a garden and was generous with her produce. She insisted good soil, sun and love were key factors to her gardening success. She enjoyed genealogy and tracing the family history back to their crossing on the Mayflower. She was a proud member of the Mayflower Society and the Daughters of the American Revolution.

Virginia was a collector of almost anything: stamps, coins, glassware, antiques, jewelry, string, etc. She was an incredible seamstress and enjoyed cross-stitch projects. She made her own clothes and was always available to complete sewing projects for her extended family. Virginia was fiercely independent. She continued to drive until she was 94. Asked what her secret was to longevity she would respond “never stop moving.” Virginia was frugal and thrifty, yet incredibly generous to her family and many charitable organizations.

Virginia was predeceased by her husband, James Cooney; son James “Jay” Cooney, DMD; a grandson, Matthew Cooney; and her brother, Hiram Nickerson.

She is survived by her children Robert Cooney, MD and spouse Lorrie, Syracuse, N.Y., Janet Kole, Topsham, John Cooney, Rangeley; her grandchildren, Meagan Cooney and spouse Jon David Sumega, Portland, Ore., Jenn Kole and spouse Paul Fuller, Portland, Erin Cooney Fitzgerald and spouse Chris, Plantation, Fla., Jason Cooney and spouse Alisha, Topsham, Lynne and spouse Chris Halligan, South Berwick, Hannah Kole and spouse Matt Grifferty, Pasadena, Calif., Mitchell Cooney and fiancé Amelia, Brighton, Mass., Jeffrey Cooney, Manchester, N.H., Charlotte Cooney, New York, N.Y.; five great-grandchildren (one pre-deceased); her sister, Ellen Poole, Bedford, N.H.; and several nieces, nephews and friends.

Virginia was a giving person but did not like accepting gifts. She would ask for nothing at this time, except for us to be kind to one another.

A graveside service for her with family will be held June 20, 2026.