Tag Archives: Williston Academy

Frederick W. Johnson ’59

Frederick W. Johnson, 83, passed away peacefully on Saturday, December 7, 2024, surrounded by the love and blessings of his family. He was born in Southampton, MA to Rudolf Oscar H. and Alice E. Johnson.

Fred attended Williston Academy in Easthampton, MA and then graduated from the University of Massachusetts with a B.A. in Zoology. After graduating from Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine in 1967, he began his career at Edmund’s Veterinary Hospital in Northampton, MA and married his longtime friend Mary Burr. Together they started a family, and in 1973 moved to Dennis where Fred opened the Dennis Animal Hospital, one of the first veterinary hospitals on Cape Cod.

Being a veterinarian was a passion of Fred’s. He had a dedicated work ethic and spent 57 years of his life treating and caring for countless pets and developing genuine relationships with his clients. He was known for his knowledgeable and friendly disposition and was wholeheartedly devoted to the wellbeing of his patients. He spent his final years at Sturbridge Animal Hospital retiring in July at the age of 83. Throughout his career, he was an active member of the American Veterinary Medical Association as well as the Massachusetts Veterinary Medical Association of which he was past-president. While living in Dennis, Fred served on the Dennis-Yarmouth School Committee and was a member of the Harwich-Dennis Rotary Club. He also obtained his pilot’s license and enjoyed flying over areas of New England.

Fred was blessed with three loving children, Peter Johnson of Santa Rosa, CA, Kate Dodge of Manchester, MA, and Rebecca Pearson of Brewster, MA. His love for his family grew with the addition of his beloved grandchildren, Bode Dodge, Heidi Dodge, Calla Pearson and Eve Pearson, whom he was fondly referred to as Papa. He cherished time with his family, especially enjoying ice cream sundaes, watching sports games, and celebrating birthdays and special occasions. In addition, Fred loved his many pets over the course of a lifetime, always considering them a part of the family.

His memory remained keen for the entirety of his life. He loved to tell stories, often reminiscing about his childhood with incredible detail. He is survived by his sister, Elizabeth Bolton of Mill Valley, CA and brother, Mark Johnson of Southampton, MA. In addition to his parents, he is predeceased by his brother, Richard Johnson of Amherst, MA.

In honor of Fred’s memory, donations can be made to The Veterinary Scholarship Trust of New England (www.veterinaryscholarshiptrust.org) and/or to the McCarthy Care Center, 73 Service Rd, East Sandwich, MA 02537. Services will be private.

Gordon M. Henry ’66

Gordon Montagu Henry, 75, passed away on December 16th, 2024, with loved ones by his side. The youngest son of Otis and Barbara Henry, he was born and raised in Bermuda with his brother, Thornton (Tim) ’62.

He attended the Roger B. Chaffee School on the Kindley Air Force Base and graduated from Williston Northampton School in Massachusetts (1966). He earned his BA in History from Washington and Lee University in Virginia (1970) and then studied Hotel Administration at Cornell University. Gordon soon returned to the island he loved to build a life-long career rooted in service and hospitality.

To know Gordon was to know a true Bermudian – warm, welcoming and fun-loving. He loved a good party and loved to dance. He loved to garden, cook and entertain. He was proud of his TWO holes-in-one on the golf course, most recently this past summer at Turtle Hill. He kept busy and active – often found walking for miles along South Shore. Most recently, he loved to help his team win Quiz Night on Mondays with his vast knowledge of U.S. history. He was a life-long member of Mid Ocean Club, and also a member of Coral Beach & Tennis Club and Christ Church in Warwick.

He is survived by his loving partner, Pamela Sawyer (Bolton, CT); his loving daughter, Melissa Henry Fisher, and son-in-law, Todd Fisher – and his two grandchildren, Chase and Henry Fisher (Sudbury, MA), his former wife, Linda Henry, former sister-in-law, Sally Childs, sister-in-law, Ann Henry (West Palm Beach, FL); niece, Ruth Keyes and nephews, Brad and John Henry – and their families. He also leaves behind many dear, lifelong friends who were like family and will miss him greatly.

A special celebration of Gordon’s life will be held at a later date TBD. Please honor Gordon’s memory by thinking of him and appreciating the beauty of Bermuda each time you pass by or take a swim in Harrington Sound – a cherished childhood place where his ashes will soon be scattered. Rest in Peace, Gordy (to his Bermudian friends) / Gordo (to his grandchildren).

M. Edward Provost ’53

M. Edward Provost, 89, Rochester, Indiana, passed away at 8:54 A.M. Friday, June 28, 2024, at Wynnfield Crossing, Rochester.

He was born on November 5, 1934 in Springfield, Massachusetts, the son of Edward N. and May (Merrill) Provost. Ed was a veteran having served with the United States Air Force and had attended Purdue University. On September 30, 1998, in Granby, Connecticut, he married Harriet (Bonine) McAllister and she survives.

Ed had worked as a salesman for Burns Construction, Macy, Indiana for over forty years. He was a member of the American Legion, Elks Lodge, Moose Lodge, and attended Wesley Methodist Church in Culver, Indiana. He was a sports enthusiast, an avid golfer, and a big fan of Big Ten Sports, especially Purdue University.

Survivors include his wife, Harriet Provost, Rochester, Indiana, son Curtis Adams, Boynton Beach, Florida, daughter, Tamara Provost, Westfield, Indiana, step-daughter, Gwen (Fiance’ Adam Hoover) McAllister, Carmel, Indiana, five grandchildren, sister, Jacqueline Neumann, Cape Cod, Massachusetts. Preceding him in death were his parents and step-son, James Brent McAllister.

Memorial services will be conducted at 2:00 P.M. Saturday, July 13, 2024 at Wynnfield Crossing in the Chapel, 1729 Wabash Avenue, Rochester, Indiana. Burial will be held at Riverside Cemetery, Woodstock, Vermont.

Almer M. Huntley, Jr. ’50

Almer M. “Bud” Huntley, Jr.  92, of Hagerman, Idaho, previously of western Massachusetts and Maine, passed away on Monday, February 19, 2024 at his home, with his loving wife, Sandra Huntley at his side.

     Bud was a kind and intelligent man, tolerant of opposing ideas but unwavering in his opinions and convictions. He was born on December 5, 1931 to Almer M Huntley, Sr. and Mildred (Brakey) Huntley in Easthampton, Ma.  He was a lively and much-loved child, and had two younger brothers, Richard P Huntley (deceased) and David B. Huntley, who survives him.  He was an Eagle Scout, a tradition that has extended into two more generations in the family.

     He attended Easthampton MA public school system, Williston Academy and UMASS Amherst majoring in Forestry. In 1955 he founded Almer Huntley, Jr. and Associates, a civil engineering and land surveying firm, which he operated until his retirement.  He also lived in Jonesport, ME and continued the same line of work there. He was licensed as a land surveyor in Idaho. 

     Bud is the much-loved father of five children and three stepchildren – Deborah H. Allen (David Meath, David T. Huntley (Susan), Edward S. Huntley (deceased) (Breda), Kathryn H. Whitney (Scott), and Elizabeth Huntley Field (Bruce), Dan Stasz, Mark Stasz (Jennifer), and Shari Zafft (Richard). He also leaves his grandchildren – Jillian (Huntley) Malo, Halina Allen Lyons, Todd Whitney, Christopher Whitney, Jameson Huntley, Graeme Huntley, Conor Stasz, Mackenzie Stasz, Jayven Mavencamp Stasz, Abigail Mavencamp, Cayden Mavencamp, Maximo Zafft, Tatiana Zafft; and seven great grandchildren.

     Bud was always very involved in civic activities wherever he lived. He believed strongly in citizen engagement and responsibility.  Bud was very active in the Hagerman community. He was on the Highway Commission and Chairman of the Planning & Zoning Commission retiring from those roles last Monday.

     Bud says he arrived to this world with no big hurrah so he requests to leave this world in the same manner. To honor Bud’s wishes there will not be any services.

     Please join us at the Wilson’s Club in Hagerman on Thursday, March 7, 2024 at 4:00 PM to raise a toast to Bud.

Robert W. Hisey ’48

Robert Warren Hisey, internationally known chemical engineer for the pulp and paper industry, died on March 11, 2024 at his home in Sarasota, Florida. He was born in Chicago, Illinois and was 92 years old when he died.

Dr. Hisey was the valedictorian of the 1952 class at Middlebury College and earned a PhD in Chemical Engineering at the Institute of Paper Chemistry in 1958. He had a long and distinguished career in the pulp and paper industry, including the design, construction, and operation of leading-edge paper making machinery and plants. In retirement, he was an avid and accomplished philatelist, regularly producing innovative and award-winning exhibits; he also wrote several philatelic books on South African stamps. Like his father and grandfather before him, he also pursued wood-working, building antique replica furniture as well as miniature doll-house furniture. He also constructed models of the solar system, including a reproduction of the Antikythera mechanism.

He is survived by his wife Elizabeth, his sons Peter of Chicago; Charles of Poultney, Vermont; Richard of Carlisle, Massachusetts; William of Samford, Florida; and daughter Stephanie of Sarasota, Florida. He is also survived by eight grandchildren and two great granddaughters. His son Robert, of Tampa Florida, passed away in 2021.

He was the son of Willis Oury Hisey and Margaret McDaniel of Portland, Oregon. A celebration of Bob’s life will be held on April 6, 2024. In lieu of flowers, the family has asked that any donations be made to Tidewell Hospice or The Olena Zelenska Foundation – for Ukrainian children.

Ross J. Prossner ’66

Ross James Prossner, born on Feb. 4, 1948, in Rome, New York, passed away peacefully on December 7, 2024, surrounded by family at his home, “Hidden Hill,” in Cazenovia. He was the youngest son of Leslie and Evelyn Prossner and brother to Terrance (deceased) and David.

Ross spent his formative years in Rome, New York, and attended Williston Academy in Northampton, Massachusetts, where he excelled in swimming, earning All-American honors in the 100-yard backstroke. He graduated in 1966 and continued his education at Syracuse University, where he was a dedicated member of the varsity swim team for four years and a proud member of the Psi Upsilon fraternity, Pi chapter, graduating in 1970.

Ross embarked on a career in banking, beginning with a brief tenure at Lincoln Bank before becoming president and CEO of Carrier Federal Credit Union. Under his leadership, the institution transitioned to Beacon Federal Credit Union and ultimately Beacon Federal Savings and Loan. His time at Beacon was marked by the formation of lasting friendships that continued into his retirement.

Ross embraced a variety of interests, including motorcycle riding, snowboarding, sailing, gardening, welding, reading, birdwatching and volunteering at The Boys and Girls Club. He was also a long-time board member and friend of The Abbey of the Genesee. Ross will be remembered by those closest to him as charismatic, creative, generous, and one of a kind.

Ross’s memory is lovingly carried on by his children, RJ and daughter-in-law Colleen, Whitney and son-in-law Jon, Samantha and special friend Justin, and Jake ’17 and special friend Erin; his grandchildren, James, Rosemary, Lia, Wyatt, and Grace; his brother, David; and his beloved canine companions, Sky and Bugsy.

Funeral services will be held at 1 p.m., Friday, December 13, 2024, in St. James Church, 6 Green St. in Cazenovia, followed by a reception. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to The Boys and Girls Club of America online at bgca.org.

David B. Kreidler ’55

David B. Kreidler of Rumson, NJ and Vero Beach, FL, passed away on November 26th, 2024. He leaves behind his wife, Donna Clare Vroman. Three children: Anne Katherine V. Donohue (Michael,) David C. Kreidler (Sarah,) and Daven Bell Foulk (Anthony,) and seven grandchildren: Lindsey, Kendall, Finn, Megan, Bennett, Lilly and Mia.

A training program with MetLife Group Division set the stage for his 35 year career in association management where he was privileged to work with many talented and gifted entrepreneurs, executives and professionals. Active in the American Society of Association Executives he chaired four committees, served on its Board of Directors and achieved the designation of Certified Association Executive (CAE.) He was similarly active in three of ASAE’s affiliates. He retired as President and CEO of Eastern Building Material Dealers Association in 1999.

The only child of Homer and Sally (Bell) Kreidler, his youth was spent on the North Jersey coast. Born March 31st, 1937 (missing April Fools Day by hours) he graduated Wanamassa Grammar School, Williston Academy, Duke University, The American College of Life Underwriters and OCS followed by Armored Officer Orientation School.

He served in several appointed municipal positions and several Boards of Directors. At one time or another he was a member of: Monmouth County Young Republicans, Allenhurst Beach Club, Trinity of Swarthmore, Spring Haven Country Club, Seabright Beach Club, Rumson Country Club, Sea Bright Lawn Tennis and Cricket Club, Sea Oaks Beach and Tennis Club, Rose Valley Folk, Fraternal Order of Hoo Hoo, St. Georges-by-the-River, Delta Tau Delta Fraternity, Swarthmore Rotary, St. Andrews Society of Philadelphia, The Varsity D Club and American Contract Bridge League. These entities helped to shape his life and career.

He and his wife Donna met at the singles table at a wedding (it was love at first sight) and they married 11 months later. They have now been married for 61 years. David always felt it special that in 1963 their wedding guests were treated to a partial eclipse of the sun.

Edward M. Peters Jr. ’54

On Nov. 6, 2024, Dr. Edward M. Peters Jr., 88, a longtime resident of Guilford, Connecticut, passed away at his home.

Husband of the late Patricia (Knapp) Peters, Dr. Peters was born in New Haven in May, 1936, son of Mr. Edward M. Peters, Sr. and Mrs. Marjorie (Corcoran) Peters. Loving father and father-in-law to Greg and Nicole Kane of Fairfield, Moira and Dave Pakulniewicz of Berlin, Maryland, and Clare and Edward M. Peters, III of Austin, Texas. He is survived by his five grandchildren, Caroline, Charles, Timothy, Mary Elizabeth, and Peter; his beloved sisters, Teri Ciaburro of East Haven and MaryEllen DelVecchio of Woodbridge; and his sister-in-law, Ann Peters of Guilford, widow of his younger brother, John.

Dr. Peters was a graduate of Hill House High School, New Haven, The Williston Northampton School in Easthampton, Massachusetts, and of Yale University, from which he held a B.A., an M.A., and was the first Ph.D awarded in medieval studies. After a brief stint teaching at the University of California at San Diego, Peters settled in at the University of Pennsylvania as the Henry Charles Lea Professor of History and the curator of the Henry Charles Lea Library, where he remained for 41 years. His studies spanned many wide-ranging topics, including the Crusades, the Inquisition, witchcraft in Europe, and niche topics such as curiosity and torture. Peters has been called “One of the greatest medievalists of his generation.”

Even after retirement from teaching, Dr. Peters continued to research, write, and edit scholarly work. He was an avid reader of thrillers and loved nothing more than having a cocktail on the deck overlooking the beautiful salt marsh in Guilford, followed by a well-cooked meal.

Friends are invited to attend a 2:30 p.m. burial on Tuesday, Nov. 19, at West Side Cemetery, 55 Three Mile Course, Guilford, and to share a memory with the family from 4 to 6 p.m. at Café Allegre, 725 Post Road, Madison, following the burial.

Dana B. Miquelle ’69

Dana Miquelle, age 73, passed away at home, October 20, 2024, after a brief illness.

Born in Boston, Massachusetts, son of the late Claude H. ’42 and Jean (Bryer) Miquelle, he grew up in Stoneham, MA enjoying summers on Cape Cod. Dana graduated from Williston Academy (Easthampton, MA) in 1969, then from Drew University (Madison, NJ) in 1973 with a degree in Religious Studies.

Dana married Margaret Moore in 1973 and moved to Cape Cod. There Dana began his custom home building business, often working closely with his father Architect Claude Miquelle. Despite no formal training, with his aptitude for learning and problem solving he was able to develop a unique niche in the Custom home building boom on the lower Cape and across Massachusetts. In 1977 Dana’s first daughter Jessica was born, followed by his second daughter Lisa in 1980.

Dana returned to school to pursue Psychology Counseling, graduating from Lesley College with his Masters in 1996. With degree in hand, Dana then moved to Bozeman, Montana to begin his counseling career. He furthered his education with a Psychoanalytic Psychotherapist degree in 2011 and eventually transitioned his practice to Livingston, Montana, while he moved to Wilsall, Montana where he declared he would “make his last stand.” He continued to provide impactful care to his patients until his retirement this past August.

Dana was an avid skier, hiker, and outdoorsman who loved to garden and brought artistry and sensitivity to all aspects of his life. He loved music and taught himself to play guitar in later life, collecting many records and guitars over his lifetime. Dana was an environmentalist who loved the natural world and enjoyed the solitude of wild places, but also enjoyed nothing better than to share the beauty of nature with all those he loved.

Dana is survived by his children Jessica Miquelle Romero (Eduardo) and Lisa Miquelle ’98; his grandchildren Eva and Sonia Romero, Dylan Hemsworth, and Nora Meservey; and his siblings Debra Miquelle Prudden (Peter ’66) and Dale Miquelle ’72 (Marina).

The family will hold a private Celebration of Life in Dana’s honor. In lieu of flowers or gifts for the family, please make a donation to your favorite National Park or environmental charity.

Charles D. Vernon ’62

Charles Dearden Vernon was born on November 4, 1944, in Worcester, Massachusetts and died peacefully on October 18, 2024 in Hartford, Connecticut from medical complications. He was the son of the late Hollis and Jean Dearden Vernon.

Chuck grew up on the campus of the Williston Northampton School in Easthampton, Massachusetts. At Williston, he stood out as an inspiring leader of the student body as president of the Student Council and as a gifted, determined athlete who exceled in football, hockey and lacrosse, serving as captain of the latter two. In a remarkable tribute to Chuck and his leadership abilities, a teammate’s family donated a Victory Bell to the school in his honor. Dedicated to Chuck, the inscription reads that he proved to all that “sportsman is the true victory.” Chuck was elected to the school’s Athletic Hall of Fame in 2023.

After Williston Chuck attended Dartmouth College, graduating in 1966. At Dartmouth he was once again a campus leader and recognized athlete, captain of the men’s lacrosse team and named as an All-American for his sportsmanship and love of the game.

Following graduation from Dartmouth, for a brief time Chuck managed a Dixieland-motif restaurant, Your Father’s Mustache, first in Bay Head, New Jersey during the summer and then in New York City the following winter. It was in Bay Head that he met the love of his life, Jamie Sandra Gardner, whom he married in 1968.

In 1968 Chuck began his illustrious career at the Loomis Chaffee School in Windsor, Connecticut, serving on the faculty in myriad roles throughout his career in secondary school education, but primarily as the head of the Community Work Program, which he established shortly after his arrival. Again, Chuck’s commitment to athletics and his ability to engage and lead others to perform at their highest level were evident as he coached 135 teams for over 40 years. To honor his outstanding contribution to girls’ ice hockey, the New England Preparatory Schools Athletic Conference named the Elite Division championship tournament in his honor.

When he wasn’t coaching during the school year, Chuck, along with Jamie, spent every summer at the Jersey Shore hosting gatherings for family and friends, making furniture in his shop and body surfing at Bridge Avenue Beach.

Throughout his quasi-retirement, Chuck continued and expanded his passion for woodworking and his commitment to walking, engaging friends and neighbors to join him. In this latter realm, as in other forums, Chuck’s effervescent personality, punctuated by forceful insistence and a quick wit, brought people into his orbit, summoning them to action and enriching their lives.

Throughout Chuck’s life, he was fiercely committed to his family and friends as they were to him. In his eyes, his wife Jamie, who predeceased him, was the most incredible person on the planet. A loving and present father to Jill and Andrew, he also leaves his special GrandGirls Lila, Jenna, Hannah and Tatum; Jill’s husband Todd and Andrew’s wife Adrianne, along with many friends, especially Ginny Drapeau who was a constant source of care and strength the past two years. Predeceased by his brother Kirke, Chuck also leaves several cousins and their children.

There will be a Celebration of Life for Chuck at the Loomis Chaffee School on Sunday November 24th at 10:00 a.m. with luncheon to follow.

Donations in his memory can be made to The Loomis Chaffee School, for the Charles D. Vernon Teaching Fund, Alumni/Development, 4 Batchelder Road, Windsor, CT 06095