Category Archives: 1960s

Brian C. Clarke ’64

Brian Cole Clarke passed away on January 5, 2024. Brian was born in Yonkers, NY on December 13, 1946, and spent his childhood in Dalton, Massachusetts with his parents and two brothers. He was a graduate of Williston Academy and earned a BS in engineering from the University of Massachusetts in 1969. He joined the United States Army ROTC program during his time at UMASS and subsequently served as a 2nd Lieutenant from 1969 to 1971 where he was deployed to Korea during the Vietnam War.

Brian had a successful engineering and business career, landing as the President of Sensor Engineering in Hamden, Connecticut. He obtained his MBA from the University of New Haven in 1985. Early on, his engineering career followed his automotive interests where he assisted in developing after-market automotive performance parts. His business career led him to many opportunities through several states and industries from Connecticut, Virginia, and Michigan before he ultimately retired and eventually moved to Johnson City, TN.

Brian married Judith Bowe in 1974 and raised their only child in East Haddam, CT enjoying the outdoor space, woodworking shop, and family time the property offered. Brian had many passions in his life and was not afraid of hard work and challenges. Early in life, he raced cars and revisited that passion when Raybestos needed a test driver through his work at Sensor Engineering. He won the SCCA World Challenge – T1 Rookie of the Year in 1996 and raced on numerous cup circuit tracks across the US – often taking his daughter with him to be part of the pit crew. He took ski trips with his friends, brothers, and daughter all across the United States. He enjoyed felling trees, woodworking, and the game of golf his entire life. In retirement, he continued his hobbies of woodworking and golfing and learned guitar. As a dog lover, he enjoyed the company of a good, faithful dog. Ultimately he was known as a very intelligent, kind, and generous man who often asked, “what can I do for you.”

Brian is preceded in death by his parents, Stephen ’40 and Lillian Winifred Clarke. He is survived by his wife Judith and daughter Nicole Henderson (husband Stephen), granddaughter Kelsey, and two brothers James ’68 (wife Annette) and David (wife Joan), as well as two nieces and two nephews. He leaves behind friends in many states and will be greatly missed. There will be a family celebration of life later in 2024.

James U. Edwards III ’65

James “Jim” Upshur Edwards III, a beacon of resilience and joy, passed away on December 19, 2023, leaving behind a legacy that embodies the celebration of a life well-lived. Born on September 19, 1946, in Manchester, NH, Jim navigated life with a disciplined approach, forged in the crucible of a Type I Diabetes diagnosis at the tender age of 11.

Jim’s journey through life mirrored the rhythmic strokes of a world-class swimmer. From his formative years at Williston Academy, a premier swimming institution in Easthampton, MA, to the currents of the University of North Carolina, where he swam on scholarship, Jim’s competitive spirit defined his aquatic prowess.

His commitment to fitness and nutrition, honed by the challenges of diabetes, manifested in daily pilgrimages to the YMCA. Yet, it was not just about physical well-being for Jim; it was a philosophy that radiated warmth and engagement. His engaging personality drew people close, savoring every moment with family and friends.

Beyond the pool, Jim navigated the currents of a successful career in international banking and dedicated himself to philanthropy, volunteering at an SBA start-up business incubator. His love for life extended to the culinary realm, with “regular” dining spots becoming the backdrop for cherished memories.

At the heart of Jim’s universe was his beloved family. He is survived by his devoted wife, Margaret Anne “Maggie,” who stood by his side; his children, John David Burton and Andrea Edwards Scalia and grandson, Joseph Edmund Scalia. Jim’s familial bonds were unbreakable.

A service to celebrate Jim’s life will be held at 2:00 PM on Wednesday, January 17, 2024, at Christ Episcopal Church, 1412 Providence Road, Charlotte, NC. The family will receive friends following the service in the Blue Room at the church. The service will be livestreamed at: https://www.christchurchcharlotte.org/funeral-live-broadcast/ for those unable to attend in person.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF), 200 Vesey Street, 28th Floor, New York, NY, a cause close to Jim’s heart. As we bid farewell, let us remember Jim Edwards not for his final stroke, but for the vibrant ripples of a life lived fully.

Denis K. Berube ’61

It is with deep reverence that we announce the passing of Denis Kurt Berube, devoted husband, father, brother, and friend. Denis passed away peacefully on January 2nd, 2024, in his home surrounded by family.

Born on July 26th, 1942, in Holyoke, Massachusetts, to George and Evelyn Berube, Denis was the embodiment of curiosity, determination, and integrity. He spent his youth steeped in the delights of childhood farm life. He loved to share the stories of fly fishing in the Deerfield River, woods filled with adventure, the rewarding work of farm chores, and life among his beloved family and pets.

Denis came into the world with an incredible capacity to be both perfectly present in almost any moment and laser focused on the journey ahead. He held the innate wisdom of knowing that one must be solidly planted in the now in order to reap the fruits of the future. He always knew that he wanted to be an engineer and saw precisely how to get there. Years before he would become a teenager, he began saving money and planning how a farm boy of humble means would attend a local elite prep school. With the help of his dedicated parents and his own steadfastness he got himself into Williston Academy in Easthampton, Massachusetts where he relished life as a boarding student, tenacious athlete, and rising young man. He gave tirelessly to this institution throughout his life as he walked his two daughters through their own Williston journeys and continued to offer his time, money, and passion to help further develop the school long after he and his children had graduated.

From Williston Denis went on to study Engineering at Worcester Polytechnic Institute and to earn his Masters Degree in Electrical Engineering from Union College. He received his executive training at GE Crotenville. And so began an extraordinarily rich life that would take him places most can only dream of. He traveled to nearly every corner of the world; constantly observing, learning, and enjoying. He took little for granted and truly relished in his lived experiences. From life beneath the surface in a submarine to flying at Mach speed off an aircraft carrier he truly met life with courage and commitment at every turn.

Alongside Joanna, the love of his life, he built an empire of dreams come true. They worked tirelessly together to make an enduring and meaningful impact on the world at large through business, philanthropy, education, and development. 40 years of devout perseverance, understanding, commitment and love took them on grand adventures that will carry on beyond time and space.

Hard work was an enduring side of Denis, matched equally by his ability to play hard; a life motto that he held to his dying day. He had a lifelong affair with his ability to truly appreciate the moment and a patience for enjoyment that was unmatched. These traits made him a worthy Bridge opponent, a skilled athlete, an avid sports fan, and a voracious reader. From the black diamond ski slopes and most competitive golf courses all the way to the pickleball courts and nearly everything in between, he was a contender. He never met a sport that didn’t delight him, and he seemed to be good at them all. He loved science fiction and quantum theory, blue cheese and potato chips, ice cream, and puzzles. He also really loved naps. It was the simple pleasures among the luxury that he savored the most.

Denis spent his final 20 years building a life where he could fall easily into peace and pleasure on an Island and in a home that he adored. Eternally a masterful creator, he built his second architectural masterpiece on Kiawah Island, a seaside retreat that provided him his greatest reward – simplicity. He loved everything about the nature and ease of life in Kiawah. His day was full if he witnessed the sunrise and the waves crash. He was once an avid sailor, and the ocean always called him home.

Denis is survived and celebrated by his adoring wife, Joanna Lau, daughter Caitlin Berube ’13, daughter Blythe Berube Rowan ’92, Son-in-Law, Dr. Christopher Rowan, grandsons, Riley Rowan and Teo Rowan, brother Charles Berube, and many nieces and nephews.

Denis will be cremated, and his family will make a pilgrimage to honor his life at his most sacred places. We ask that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to the Kidney Cancer Foundation and in place of a public celebration of life, what a beautiful tribute it would be to do something you truly enjoy today and raise a glass to him.

Lynn Bryan Sobocinski ’65

Lynn Bryan Sobocinski, 76, passed away on October 15, 2023. Beloved wife of David P. Sobocinski. Loving mother of Amy Daly (James) and Mitchell Sobocinski (Luciana). Cherished grandmother of Leanne and Callan Daly, Hannah and Mitchell Sobocinski.

Lynn was a Pan Am flight attendant and afterwards a financial advisor with David. She loved to golf and enjoyed traveling. A gracious host and excellent chef, many had the pleasure of being at her home. Countless people have said that Lynn was their best friend who always placed herself second, everyone else came first.

Visitation Thursday 2-4 and 7-9 PM at M.A. Connell Funeral Home, 934 New York Ave., Huntington Station. Funeral Mass Friday 10:45 AM at St. Patrick’s Church, Huntington.

In lieu of flowers, Lynn would greatly appreciate donations be made to: Little Shelter Animal Rescue and Adoption Center, www.littleshelter.org 33 Warner Road, Huntington, NY 11743 in Lynn’s name would be greatly appreciated.

Gregory W. DiMartino ’64

Gregory DiMartino passed away on November 27, 2023 in Providence, Rhode Island. Born on April 23, 1945, he was the son of Mary Dulleba DiMartino and Alexander DiMartino. He is survived by a sister Mia McKee of Naples, Florida and sons Brian DiMartino of Erving, Massachusetts and Jay DiMartino of Greenville, South Carolina. Also surviving are grandchildren Annabella DiMartino, Cecelia DiMartino and Brendan DiMartino.
Visiting hours are Saturday, December 9th 1-3 pm at Avery-Storti, Columbia Street, Wakefield, RI.
In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to your favorite charity in Greg’s name.

Gerald G. Naylor ’60

We are sad to announce the passing of Gerald Glass Naylor, of Ann Arbor, MI. He died in his home at age 81 on Friday November 3, 2023, after a hard-fought battle with lung cancer.
Gerry was born on March 22, 1942, in Hartford, CT and grew up in Wethersfield, CT.
He attended boarding school at Williston Northampton, then Brown University. He went on to dental school at Georgetown University. Soon after graduation he joined the public health service during the Vietnam War, serving merchant marines in both Cincinnati, Ohio and Staten Island, New York. He then went on to complete his dental training in periodontics at University of Michigan. After graduation, he opened his dental practice in Ann Arbor, serving the community for 40 years until he retired in 2011.
Gerry was a true intellectual, who surrounded himself with books and loved lively discussions on politics, history and economics. According to his older brother Jim, “Gerry knew a lot about every topic,” and often outdebated his older brother (despite having an almost identical education). Gerry particularly loved American history, has read countless historical biographies, and loved talking about the Civil War.
Gerry was also passionate about gardening. Gerry spent a lot of time researching plants and caring for his extensive garden that included a wide variety of Orchid species. He enjoyed hosting garden parties with his friends. He was president of the Ann Arbor Dean Fund, where he oversaw the selection and plantings of trees throughout Ann Arbor.
He was also an avid supporter of the arts, and member of the University Musical Society. He regularly attended many musical and dance performances in Ann Arbor. He was also an activist for GLBTQ and feminist rights in the 1970’s and 1980’s.
He is survived by his dear friend and partner William (Bill) Garvey, who he met in 1974 and who served as his dental office manager for over 30 years. He is also survived by his brother James E. (Danielle) Naylor ’57, sister Susan Naylor (George) Krouse, and 5 nieces and nephews.
The family is planning a private memorial service in Ann Arbor at a later date.

Brenda Hubbard Plut ’69

December 4, 1951 – July 10, 2023

Beloved wife of Joseph Plut. Loving mother of Gordon Kee of Ottawa and grandson Kieran. Loved step-mother of Matthew Plut (Emily) of Calgary and Stephen Chelli of Tasmania. Dear sister of David Hubbard (Patricia) and Ruth Lovinsohn. Brenda will be fondly remembered by her nieces, nephews and many friends.

A celebration of Brenda’s life will be planned for a later date. If so desired memorial donations to the Alliston & District Humane Society would be appreciated.

Albert J. Ackermann ’68

Albert John Ackermann, affectionately known as Al or Buddy, peacefully passed away on June 25, 2023, in Cincinnati, Ohio, surrounded by his loving children. Born on September 14, 1949, in Saint Louis, Missouri, his remarkable journey was marked by his achievements as an elite swimmer, successful career in banking, and his role as a devoted father.

An accomplished swimmer, Al’s love for the sport was cultivated as the son of a swim camp owner. He excelled in swimming at The Williston Northampton School and Harvard University and traveled abroad as a member of the US swim team. Despite facing health challenges, including a rare form of blood poisoning, rectal cancer, and a battle with a neurological disease, Al’s unwavering spirit remained strong.

In his professional life, Al achieved success as a banker, earning respect within his field. He also actively participated in ToastMasters International, nurturing his public speaking skills and forming meaningful connections.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Al treasured his personal life and the invaluable relationships he cultivated. He was a devoted and proud father to his children, AJ Ackermann, Grant Ackermann, and Elizabeth (Ackermann) Hogan. Their shared experiences were filled with laughter and cherished memories, including deep-sea fishing, go-karting and engaging in spirited rounds of putt-putt golf in Al’s favorite place – Naples, Florida.

Al’s adoration extended to his beloved grandchildren, Oliver Hogan and Harvey Hogan, as he enthusiastically followed their progress in swimming classes. Al found joy swimming, reading, savoring symphonic music, and passionately supporting his hometown baseball team, the St. Louis Cardinals. He also had a fondness for movies and was an active member of Masters Swimming. Al maintained a lifelong friendship with his ex-spouse, Cindy Ackermann, offering mutual support throughout life’s journey.

Al was preceded in death by his parents, Alice and Albert John Ackermann. He is survived by his children, AJ Ackermann, Grant Ackermann, and Elizabeth Ackermann (Patrick Hogan), as well as his sisters, Bev Shoop (Dee Shoop) and Janet Zucker (Bob Zucker). Al’s memory will live on through his beloved grandchildren, Oliver and Harvey Hogan.

Al will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who knew him. His kindness, considerate nature, and unwavering love will forever be remembered. The family will hold a private ceremony to celebrate his life. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke.

As we bid farewell to Al, we carry his memory in our hearts, honoring the legacy of a remarkable man who touched the lives of many.

Barbara Curtis Baker ’61



A Celebration of Life will be held on Monday, November 20, 2023, at 1:00 p.m. at Dennis Union Church, 713 Main Street, Dennis, Massachusetts. Reception to follow.


Barbara Curtis Baker died peacefully on June 12, 2023, surrounded by her family.

Daughter of Orman and Marylouise Curtis, Barbara was born on May 27, 1943, in Northampton, Massachusetts. She grew up with brothers Richard and Jeffrey in Easthampton, next to the Williston Northampton School, a proximity that would lead to a life-long relationship with the school. She attended the Northampton School for Girls, then went on to receive degrees in early childhood education from Wheelock College (BA) and Smith College (MA). During her first stint teaching in Washington, DC, she met Ellis Baker, her husband of 56 years, who was a career educator at the Williston Northampton School. After their first meeting, Ellis claims he said to a colleague, “That’s the girl I’m going to marry” — and marry her he did on August 5, 1967, in the Williston Chapel. They raised their four children, Lisa, Carrie, Ben and Adam, committing their lives to their family and the surrounding community, finding joy in supporting their children’s endeavors. Her lifelong passion educating young people, Barbara taught at Smith College’s Center for Early Childhood Education at Fort Hill for decades, shaping classroom learning experiences for three and four year olds, while mentoring student teachers. Barbara served on the Williston Northampton School’s Alumni Council and Board of Trustees before retiring to Cape Cod in Brewster, Massachusetts, where she and Ellis walked the Brewster flats, became members of the Dennis Union Church, volunteered their time at Eventide Arts, enjoyed family reunions, and traveled to care for their grandchildren. Barbara loved grandparenting as much as she loved teaching, her belief in the critical importance of an excellent early education manifested intimately. To the end of her life, Barbara shared her smile and warmth with all around her, including her caregivers, a legacy of love that lives on in her children and grandchildren.

Barbara leaves behind her husband Ellis Baker ’51 and her children, their spouses, and nine grandchildren: Lisa Baker ’89 and Tarim Chung, Malia, Thea, and Siri; Carrie Baker ’92 and Dragoş Vas, Călin and Ana; Ben and Robin Baker, Rachel (and husband Richard) and Jane; and Adam Baker and Chris Chandler, Levi and Oliver. She also leaves behind her brothers Richard ’63 and Jeffrey Curtis, and Richard’s wife Donna Curtis.