Valley News Obituaries https://www.legacy.com/obituaries/vnews/ Fri, 24 Apr 2026 05:02:18 GMT Fri, 24 Apr 2026 05:02:18 GMT en-US Beverly J. Balch Hanover, NH - Beverly J. Balch, 92, of Hanover, NH, passed away peacefully on April 15, 2026 at Hanover Terrace. Born April 3, 1934, in Lyme, NH to Chester & Marion Jenks. She graduated Hanover High School in 1952, and then married Harvey Balch on April 3, 1954. She went to work at Dartmouth College, in Baker Library and then to Dartmouth Printing for the rest of her career. After retirement, she enjoyed travel with friends and family, gardening, knitting, reading, and quilting. She is survived by her children, Bernie Balch (Anna), Jeffrey Balch (Beverly), Rebecca Balch Clogston (Larry), Johnny Balch (Brooke), and her brother Roger Jenks. She is also survived by her grandchildren, Brandi, Mikayla, Betsy, Lincoln, Vincent, and great grandchildren, Garin and Zeppelin. She was predeceased by her parents, husband Harvey, her grandson Kevin Graf Jr., daughter in-law Beverly B Balch, brothers Edward Jenks, Richard Jenks, and Stanley Jenks. The family and friends of Beverly would like to send a very special thank you to all the people at Hanover Terrace that provided special care for her. The family is planning a graveside service on April 25, 2026 at 11:00 at the Highland Cemetery in Lyme, NH. An online guest book is available to leave a message of condolence for Beverly's family by visiting www.rickerfuneralhome.com https://www.legacy.com/obituaries/vnews/obituary.aspx?n=beverly-j-balch&pid=211283014&fhid=4684 Wed, 22 Apr 2026 04:00:00 GMT 211283014 Valley News Barbara Ruth Butman Canaan, NH - Barbara Ruth Butman, 83, of Canaan, New Hampshire, formerly of Lynn, Massachusetts, passed away peacefully on March 26, 2026, with her beloved granddaughter, Shania, at her side, following complications from a long-term medical condition after an extended stay at Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center. Barbara was a woman whose warmth, kindness, and spirit touched everyone who had the privilege of knowing her. She will be remembered for her love of family, her resilience, and the lasting impression she left on all who crossed her path. She specifically enjoyed music and had a deep love for pups especially her boy Cooper, which brought her great comfort and joy throughout her life. She was deeply loved and will be greatly missed. She was predeceased by her husband, Gordon W. Butman; her father, James Reagan; her son, James F. Phillips; her brother, Paul A. Reagan; and her grandson, Jesse J. Champney. Barbara is survived by her children: Oscar F. Butman and his spouse, Cheryl Mason; and Paul R. Butman and his spouse, Jennifer Churchill. She also leaves behind many cherished grandchildren and great-grandchildren, including Joshua Champney; Shania Butman; John Phillips and his son, James; Austin and Amber Churchill; and great-grandchildren Joshua, Gabriel, and Mavis, along with many other beloved family members and friends. The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to all those who helped care for Barbara over the years. A graveside service will be held at a later date, anticipated for this summer. Details will be shared online and via Facebook as soon as they are available. Barbara will be forever loved and deeply missed. Rest in peace. https://www.legacy.com/obituaries/vnews/obituary.aspx?n=barbara-ruth-butman&pid=211288962 Thu, 23 Apr 2026 04:00:00 GMT 211288962 Valley News Beverly J. Carey White River Junction, VT - Beverly J. Carey, age 82, passed Saturday, April 18, 2026. A full obituary will be published in an upcoming edition of the Valley News. Knight Funeral Home in White River Junction has been entrusted with arrangements. https://www.legacy.com/obituaries/vnews/obituary.aspx?n=beverly-j-carey&pid=211279602&fhid=19654 Tue, 21 Apr 2026 04:00:00 GMT 211279602 Valley News James Otis "Jim" Chadwick Sharon, VT - James Otis Chadwick, age 65, passed Wednesday, February 4, 2026. A graveside memorial service for James will be held in the Pine Hill Cemetery in Sharon, VT on Saturday, May 2, 2026 at 11am. The Boardway and Cilley Funeral Home, Chelsea, VT is in charge of arrangements. https://www.legacy.com/obituaries/vnews/obituary.aspx?n=james-otis-chadwick-jim&pid=211289871&fhid=16421 Fri, 24 Apr 2026 04:00:00 GMT 211289871 Valley News Debra Kathy Ward Cook Windsor, VT - Debra Kathy Ward Cook, 73, died on April 10, 2026, at her daughter's home in Windsor, Vermont with family and friends in attendance after a lengthy illness. She was born on July 17, 1952, in Sylvester, Georgia, the daughter of Eddie and Desma Lucille Ward. Debra graduated from Turner County High School in Ashburn, Georgia in 1970. Debra met and married Daniel Cook in November, 1968, 57 years ago. Following High School, Debra lived in Ashburn, Georgia then moved to Rome, Georgia working in sewing factories, finally moving to Norwich, Vermont in 1977. In Norwich she worked at Green Mountain/Mascoma Bank in several positions. In 1998, at the age of forty-six, Debra decided to take a Nursing Assistant Course, she had always wanted to be a Nurse. In May of 2000, she achieved her goal graduating from New Hampshire Technical College as a Licensed Practical Nurse. Debra worked in Nursing for the next 19 years, the last 15 1/2 years at Wheelock Terrace in the Memory Care Unit. Debra always enjoyed cooking for her family and for years hosted holiday dinners. Upon retirement she became known as Grammy to family and friends. Debra is survived by her husband, Daniel Cook, of Norwich, two daughters, Moriah Tidwell and Husband Michael of Windsor, Vermont, Katherine Jameson and Husband Dan of Canaan, New Hampshire, 7 Grandchildren, one great granddaughter, and one sister, Cindy Ward Smith of Bonifay, Florida. She was predeceased by her parents Eddie and Desma Lucille Ward, one daughter Desma Ruth Oickle, one grandson Ryan Jackob Oickle, two brothers WL and Tommy Ward, four sisters Claudine Conn, Sheb Haynes, Barbara Anna Burdette, and Linda Shirah. A Graveside Burial Service will be on Saturday, on April 25, 2026, at 11AM in the family lot in Hillside Cemetery in Norwich. There are no calling hours. A Celebration of Life will be held from 1 to 5 PM at Poorhouse Bar-B-Q, 1177 US RT 4 in Canaan, New Hampshire. Food will be provided. In lieu of flowers, donations in Mrs. Cook's memory may be sent to any study of Dementia or Alzheimer's. https://www.legacy.com/obituaries/vnews/obituary.aspx?n=debra-kathy-ward-cook&pid=211286754&fhid=40352 Wed, 22 Apr 2026 04:00:00 GMT 211286754 Valley News Lynn Gage South Barre, VT - Lynn Thompson Gage died on April 15, 2026 at the UVM Medical Center, unexpectedly. She was born July 14, 1939, in Teaneck, New Jersey to Gordon Thompson and Elizabeth McGairy. She attended Dumont High School and was a standout cheerleader. Lynn then attended Montclair State University. While at Montclair Lynn was active in gymnastics, cheerleading, dance, modeling, and track. She had very fond memories of college and stayed in touch with several of her professors. While in college she met and married E Charles (Chuck) Welch in 1961. They welcomed Gordon (Gordy) and Kerry to their family. Both Lynn and Chuck taught school in New Jersey. In 1970, the "beckoning country" advertisement for Vermont brought them to Brookfield. Lynn's various talents landed her at Brookfield Elementary School, ultimately teaching physical education, art and library. Lynn and Chuck divorced in 1976. In 1978, Brookfield School hired a new principal named Clayton (Kit) Gage. After working together for a year, they started dating and married in 1983. This started a team that worked together for 18 years at Brookfield and then 5 years at Thetford Elementary School, where Lynn was just the librarian. No more three preps! Both Lynn and Kit retired in 2002. Lynn was a very diverse and talented woman. She was a seamstress, a portrait artist, a dancer, and a jewelry designer. She illustrated two books for people suffering from severe arthritis, and one about movement education. She took great pleasure in embellishing birthday cards and paper currency. While at Brookfield School, she took the annual spring concerts to a new level. With the help of Lillian Miller and Susan Rule, the concerts became magical for many, many students. Lynn composed the school song "High on a hilltop…" and many of her students still sing it today. Lynn was instrumental in making BES the outstanding elementary school in the area. Lynn was preceded in death by her parents and an older brother, Gordon. Lynn is survived by husband Kit, sons Gordy (Mary) and Kerry, sister Gayle (Horia), stepchildren Kristie Costa (Gilmar), Trista Gage (Philippe), Jeremy Gage, grandchildren Odin, Alessio, Logan, Tais, Nadine, Madison, Eli, and extended family Aly, Donny and especially Maite. Also many nieces, nephews, and cousins, as well as her favorite non-humans Sophie and Tucker. As per her wishes there will be no service or viewing. A celebration of life will be scheduled for this summer. https://www.legacy.com/obituaries/vnews/obituary.aspx?n=lynn-gage&pid=211281807 Thu, 23 Apr 2026 04:00:00 GMT 211281807 Valley News Gurmit (Gita) Grewal Post Mills, VT - Our beloved wife, mother, sister, cousin, friend Gurmit (Gita) K Grewal of Post Mills, Vermont and Tucson, Arizona left us peacefully on April 6, 2026 surrounded by her loving family. Gurmit's life was filled with change and tumult from the time that she was very young. She was born in Jamshedpur, India in 1942 then moved to an area of Punjab that was to become Pakistan during Partition in 1947. Gurmit, her parents and her cousins survived the harrowing experience of Partition, traveling on foot under unimaginable conditions, temporarily settling in a small village in what became Indian Punjab. After that she lived with her grandmother and cousin Amarjit in Ludhiana for several years, before being reunited with her parents in Patna, Bihar, India where she lived through high school. She and the family moved back to Ludhiana where she received a Bachelor's Degree in Sociology from the Government College of Ludhiana. In 1959 when Gurmit was still in Patna, her uncle arranged a marriage between two long-connected families. On July 13, 1966 Gurmit married Manohar S Grewal, in Model Town, Ludhiana, after which she emigrated to the United States. She had moved around India a lot by that time, but nothing had prepared her for the culture and weather shock of moving to New England. She approached her life in the US the same way she did everything, with the strength of steel and an unrivaled determination. She established a life in Cambridge, MA and Hanover, MA bringing two daughters, Parminder and Tejinder into the world and working hard to raise them to be both kind and fiercely independent. She wanted her daughters to do everything she was not able to do in her life and they made her proud every day. In Hanover, Gurmit was introduced to and developed a love of gardening through the Garden Club. She built longstanding friendships and brought beauty to her neighborhood and community through her gardening. She was also very involved in building the Sikh community in Massachusetts, serving as the first female president of the New England Sikh Study Circle, and advocating for and supporting Sikh women and children. Gurmit and Manohar retired to Post Mills, VT in 1999 and started spending winters in Tucson, AZ in 2013, building strong communities in both places. She was a founding member of the Sikh Sabha of the Upper Valley and made significant contributions to the Sikh Community. Her homes were always open to family, friends and anyone who needed a soft place to land. Gurmit always led with a welcoming smile and a twinkle in her eye, often using food as a way to show everyone her love. She was a wonderful cook and host. She derived so much joy from cooking with food that she had grown in her garden to feed her family, especially her much loved grandchildren. But more than the food, what Gurmit created was a place for people to connect, to talk about the deep and the mundane and to seek her advice, often delivered with a little bit of tough love. The sweet, charming and petite exterior Gurmit had hid her indomitable spirit and strength. She fought her way through so many obstacles in life never letting anything keep her down. She beat the odds against chronic illnesses for decades, constantly surprising her doctors and caregivers. She served as a shining example to her family of what you can do if you are determined. Gurmit leaves behind her husband of 59 years Manohar S Grewal, daughters Parminder Padgett (Jeff) of Burlington, VT, Tejinder Grewal of Tucson, AZ and Burlington, VT, grandchildren Charles Padgett and Simran Padgett (Tristan Smith), sister Surinder Dhillon (Nazar) and brother Pal Gill (Darshan). Her funeral and religious service were held in Tucson on Thursday, April 9, 2026, a Celebration of Life will be held in Post Mills, VT this summer. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the (ADA). https://www.legacy.com/obituaries/vnews/obituary.aspx?n=gurmit-k-grewal-gita&pid=211297254&fhid=20175 Fri, 24 Apr 2026 04:00:00 GMT 211297254 Valley News Veronica Guyre Lyme, NH - Veronica Schmid Guyre of Lyme, New Hampshire passed away peacefully at home on March 25, 2026, surrounded by her loved ones. She fought a long and courageous battle with cancer. Veronica, known in her earlier life as "Ronnie" and more recently as "Vee," was born in Ridgefield Park, New Jersey on May 7, 1950. After graduating from Ridgefield Park High School, she attended college at the University of New Hampshire where she earned her RN degree. In 1971 she married her soulmate Paul Guyre and moved to New Hampshire, where she resided for the remainder of her life. Vee's first career was in nursing, which began in the Neurosurgery Department at Mount Sinai Hospital and continued at Exeter and Mary Hitchcock Memorial Hospitals. An avid outdoorswoman who hiked the forty-eight highest mountain peaks of New Hampshire, and climbed Moosilauke countless times, She also enjoyed kayaking and paddle boarding. In the winter, she enjoyed downhill and cross-country skiing, as well as Nordic ice skating. Her care for others touched many, many lives. She was very passionate about the environment. Through their generosity, she and her husband Paul preserved countless acres of land in Northern New England via conservation. Her amazing contribution to making the world more beautiful was her ability to grow the most stunning and magnificent flowers and vegetables in her many gardens, which she shared with others. Her delicate fingers made nature glow! Veronica is survived by her beloved husband, Professor Paul Guyre; her cherished son Matthew Guyre and his wife Kelly and daughters Kingsley and Callahan of Hailey, Idaho; her sister Doris Trela of Scotia New York; and several cousins, sisters- and brothers-in-law, nieces, and nephews. A private green burial was attended by immediate family. A memorial celebrating Vee's life is planned for June 20, 2026. https://www.legacy.com/obituaries/vnews/obituary.aspx?n=veronica-guyre&pid=211245424 Wed, 15 Apr 2026 04:00:00 GMT 211245424 Valley News Harry Johndro Greenland, NH - Harry Ross Johndro, age 89, passed Friday, December 19, 2025. Family and friends are invited to Harry's graveside service Friday April 24th at 11 AM at the West Lebanon Cemetery in West Lebanon, NH. Arrangements are with the Ricker Funeral Home of Lebanon https://www.legacy.com/obituaries/vnews/obituary.aspx?n=harry-johndro&pid=211294346&fhid=4684 Thu, 23 Apr 2026 04:00:00 GMT 211294346 Valley News Glenford Aldis McAllister Springfield, VT - Glenford Aldis McAllister, born January 29, 1939, in Richford, VT, passed away peacefully on April 15, 2026, after a brief illness surrounded by family. He was a beloved brother, uncle, husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He married the love of his life, Ruth May Butterfield, on June 25, 1960, in Windsor, Vermont. Glen is survived by his wife and children: Glen Jr. (Sharon) McAllister, Linda (Bruce) Richardson, Wyatt (Meredith) McAllister, Mindy (Ken) Hansen, Wade (Amanda) McAllister, Arron (Chari) McAllister, and Trudy Battiest. He was predeceased by his daughter-in-law, Debra McAllister. He was a loving Grandpa to his 24 grandchildren and 20 great-grandchildren. Glenford was the youngest of 11 and the last surviving child of Aldis and Grace (Stowell) McAllister. After the family moved to Weathersfield Bow in 1946, he worked on the farm and learned carpentry with his brothers. This is where they raised their seven children until moving to the Springfield area. He also served in the National Guard, where he achieved the rank of Staff Sergeant. He later branched out to contracting, building, and selling spec houses until the recession in the early 80's. He then worked for the Springfield, VT School System, where he served as Head of Physical Plant until he retired. He was an avid hunter, tagging many trophy bucks. He enjoyed fishing, painting, drawing, playing music, singing, a good joke, a good day's work, and any time spent with family and friends. Many of his family and friends are lucky enough to possess and cherish some of Glen's heartfelt paintings, which were often of places or memories meaningful to the recipient. A graveside ceremony will be held on Thursday, April 23, 2026, at the Weathersfield Bow Cemetery at 4 pm, followed by a Celebration of Life at the Martin Memorial Hall in Ascutney. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Springfield Booster's Club, PO Box 666, Springfield, VT. 05156. or the Ascutney Fire Department, 540 VT Route 131, Ascutney, VT 05030. Donations can also be made by using Venmo to the booster club @springieldboosters Knight Funeral Home of Windsor, VT has been entrusted with arrangements and online condolences may be made in an online guestbook at www.knightfuneralhomes.com . https://www.legacy.com/obituaries/vnews/obituary.aspx?n=glenford-aldis-mcallister&pid=211263604&fhid=19658 Sat, 18 Apr 2026 04:00:00 GMT 211263604 Valley News Gregory John McHugo Strafford, VT - Gregory John McHugo, 77, passed away peacefully on April 5, 2026, with his family by his side. A person of deep thought and quick wit, Greg's life was anchored in the Vermont soil and a lifelong devotion to his family. Born in Barre on November 24, 1948, to John and Patricia Bixby McHugo, Greg was raised in Barre and Burlington, graduating from Rice Memorial High School in 1966 and the University of Vermont in 1970. He served as a 2nd Lieutenant in the U.S. Army at Fort Hood, Texas before earning his PhD in Psychology from Dartmouth College in 1980. Greg enjoyed a distinguished career as a Research Professor at the Dartmouth Psychiatric Research Center. He is survived by his wife of 38 years, Mary E. Conrad; his children, Megan M. Morrison, Ryan G. McHugo, and Clover C. McHugo; his grandchildren, Charlotte, Adaline, Lucas, Shannon, Dylan, and step-grandson Brandon; his sister, Nancy P. McHugo; and many nieces, nephews, and dear friends. Greg taught his family that one could be a serious scientist while still making a room erupt in laughter with a spot-on Donald Duck impression. He will be deeply missed and remembered with great love. A celebration of his life will be held in the early summer. For a full obituary see rand-wilson.com https://www.legacy.com/obituaries/vnews/obituary.aspx?n=gregory-john-mchugo&pid=211255488&fhid=4834 Sat, 18 Apr 2026 04:00:00 GMT 211255488 Valley News Richard Kipp Miller Wilder, VT - Richard Kipp Miller, 81, died on Sunday, April 12, 2026, at Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center in Lebanon, NH after a brief illness. He was born on January 23, 1945, to Richard and Roberta (Brunner) Miller in Hanover, NH. Kipp served in the United States Navy aboard the USS Ranger aircraft carrier off the coast of Vietnam during his tour of duty. While on base in Corpus Christi, TX he met Liz Cox at a dance in 1968. They were married on January 25, 1969, at Faith Lutheran Church in Taft, TX. After his discharge, they moved to White River Junction and helped to operate his father's gift shop, 25,000 Gifts. Kipp and Liz continued to operate the store for decades and opened up a second store in 1980 at the Quechee Gorge, Quechee Gorge Gifts and Sportswear. Kipp continued to run the store until just a few weeks ago. He was member of the VFW and American Legion in White River Junction, the Rotary Club, and the Connecticut Valley Model Railroad Club. Kipp was an avid sailor and loved spending time with Liz and their son, Jon sailing on Lake Morey. He is survived by his wife, Liz Miller of Wilder, his son, Jon Miller of Windsor; nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives, and many friends. He was preceded in death by his parents and sister, Roberta Lyn Cowan. A celebration of life will be held from 1:30-4:30pm at the Hotel Coolidge on Saturday, May 2, 2026. Condolences and memories may be shared in an online guestbook at www.knightfuneralhomes.com . https://www.legacy.com/obituaries/vnews/obituary.aspx?n=richard-kipp-miller&pid=211287046&fhid=19654 Wed, 22 Apr 2026 04:00:00 GMT 211287046 Valley News Beverly Trask Ricker White River Junction, VT - Beverly Trask Ricker, age 97, passed Tuesday, March 17, 2026. A visitation for her and Alvin will be held from 4-6pm on Friday, April 24 at the Knight Funeral Home in White River. A funeral service will take place at 2pm on Saturday, April 25 at the Greater Hartford UCC. https://www.legacy.com/obituaries/vnews/obituary.aspx?n=beverly-trask-ricker&pid=211154256&fhid=19654 Fri, 17 Apr 2026 04:00:00 GMT 211154256 Valley News Paul A. Rzeczycki Claremont, NH - Beloved Husband, Father, Grandfather, and Lifelong Claremont Resident, Paul A. Rzeczycki, 80, passed away February 5th, 2026 surrounded by the love of his family. Born on August 2, 1945, in Claremont, New Hampshire, he was the son of the late Alexander and Agnes Rzeczycki. Paul spent nearly his entire life in the neighborhood where he grew up. For almost 60 years, Paul was the devoted husband of Lillian (Page) Rzeczycki. Together they built a life of love, family, and the simple joys of home in Claremont, NH. Paul is survived by his wife, Lillian; his son, Gary Rzeczycki and his fiancée, Stefanee, of Newport; his daughter, Rhonda Gurney and her husband, Mark, of Croydon; his sister, Julye and her husband, Bob DePetrillo, of Enfield; and his brother-in-law, Ryszard Tomaszewski, of Worcester MA. His family was his greatest pride, especially his grandchildren-David, Brandi, Lindsy, Kelsey, Liam, and Lilliana-and he was overjoyed to welcome his first great grandson, Quinn. Paul also held a special place in his heart for his nieces, Julia and Alexis Tomaszewski. He was predeceased by his sister, Elizabeth Tomaszewski. A man of many passions, too many to count, Paul found joy in scuba diving, hunting with his beagles, and, above all, fishing-spending countless peaceful hours in the woods and on the water. He had a natural gift for gardening and took great pride in his flowers and vegetables, especially pumpkins, tending them with the same care and attention he gave to everything in his life. Known for his meticulous nature, Paul maintained his home, tools, and belongings with unwavering dedication. Paul's life will be celebrated with a light brunch at Hoptimystic Brewing, 31 River Road, Sunapee, NH, on Saturday, May 16th at 9AM. He will be remembered for his steady presence, his love for the outdoors, and the deep devotion he held for his family. https://www.legacy.com/obituaries/vnews/obituary.aspx?n=paul-a-rzeczycki&pid=211224211&fhid=4835 Fri, 17 Apr 2026 04:00:00 GMT 211224211 Valley News David Farnham Taplin South Strafford, VT - David Taplin passed away peacefully after a courageous battle with brain cancer on April 1, 2026, in Norwich, Vermont, lovingly surrounded by close members of his family. He was born to Frank E Taplin Jr. and Ngaio Thornton Lowry on September 7, 1949. He lived his early years in Shaker Heights, Ohio, where he attended Hawken School. After graduating from Loomis School in Windsor, Connecticut, he attended Malvern College in Great Malvern, England, for one year. He graduated from Middlebury College where he made lifelong friends. He resided in Norwich for several years on Bragg Hill Rd. until he fell in love with Strafford, Vt. He bought land on Richardson Hill and with the help of friends built an attractive timber-frame, stone house. He spent a good deal of his time in the woods, cutting firewood for his sugaring operation. The sugarhouse was the site of spring pancake breakfasts with friends. David's passion for his land with its forests, fields and wildlife led him to conserve the entirety of his property with the help of the Upper Valley Land Trust. A conservation fund has been set up in his name. (See below) David liked to say that work and beauty made his life worth living. The expression "function is beauty" speaks to how he enjoyed aesthetics in his many diverse interests: in buildings, cars and in machinery and tools, and of course in trees, gardens, and art. His appeal for stone went beyond New England to the stone walls and ancient sites in Ireland and England and to his passion for Inuit sculpture. David had an interest in international politics and in world languages, cultures and sports. He kept up to date on events and issues of all kinds. He often could be found with a newspaper in his hands. David was a wealth of knowledge. He touched many lives. Red, as he was called by his close friends, was well liked because of his kindness and his witty, easy-going nature and was admired for his service to his beloved town of Strafford. He undertook many projects over his fifty years there. He planted trees; planned and facilitated the building of an ice rink and two soccer fields (one for Sharon Academy); and would always be available to lend a hand or offer financial support to school programs or to restore town buildings. He could be seen on an early cold morning flooding the rink, or walking miles on end painting the lines on the soccer and baseball fields. He served on several town committees. He coached 7th and 8th grade soccer for many years. These acts of loyalty and service to his community earned him the Lions Club Citizen of the Year award in 2024. David enjoyed serving on the board of Vermont PBS for 15 years, as well as on the board of the Preservation Trust of Vermont for over 10 years. He was on the board of NACCO Industries, a family business in Cleveland, Ohio. His deepest pleasures came from being with Courtney Dobyns whom he met in 1985 and her children Rye and Travis Keller. Some of his fondest memories were spending time together exploring his beloved state of Vermont and Maine, and traveling to Canada, England, Ireland, France and Italy where he enjoyed food, art and culture. He so enjoyed being a "grandfather" to Travis and Kate Keller's daughters, Alice and Vivian. Over the years there were many happy holiday times with his extended family around the large Taplin dining room table at the farmhouse in Marlboro, Vermont. David is predeceased by his parents Frank E Taplin Jr. and Ngaio Thornton Lowry; his stepmother Margaret Eaton Taplin and his stepfather William H. Lowry. He will be greatly missed by his family consisting of Courtney Dobyns, Rye Keller, her partner Jesse Waring, Travis Keller and his wife, Kate Keller, and their children Alice and Vivian Keller; his two sisters, Caroline Ruschell (Ron Skufca) and Jennifer Jerome; his three stepsisters, Jennifer Dickerman (Joseph Dickerman), Marty Kelly and Susan Sichel (Vincent Panella); his nieces Anna, Katie, Sarah and Laura; as well as his nephews Marco, David, Adam, Benjamin, Alex, Justin, James and Colin. The David Taplin Conservation Fund has been set up at the UVLT in his name to honor David's legacy of land conservation in order to support and encourage the permanent protection of outstanding land and water resources in the Towns of Strafford and Thetford. In his memory donations to the David Taplin Conservation Fund may be directed to the Upper Valley Land Trust, 19 Buck Road, Hanover, NH 03755. A Celebration of Life will be held at the Strafford Town House, Strafford, Vermont, on May 30 2026, at 2:00 pm. Knight Funeral Home of White River Junction, VT assisted and condolences and memories may be shared in an online guestbook at www.knighfuneralhomes.com . https://www.legacy.com/obituaries/vnews/obituary.aspx?n=david-farnham-taplin&pid=211278502&fhid=19654 Fri, 24 Apr 2026 04:00:00 GMT 211278502 Valley News John Wahlstrom Daytona, FL - John Wahlstrom passed away peacefully from natural causes on February 9, 2026 in Daytona, Florida at the age of 67. He is survived by his sister Andrea Brownell and his two nieces, Rhiannon and Robin. Throughout his 67 years, John's vivacious character and deep intellect led him to lead a very full and diverse life. He began his journey studying martial arts in Newton, Massachusetts at a young age. He went on to earn a second-degree black belt in Hwa Rang Do, a very formidable achievement. During his time in the military, he earned the position of first lieutenant. From there, he explored the field of business and worked as a commodities trader on the Chicago Mercantile Exchange. Throughout his life, he explored countless business ventures, always creating something new. Eventually, he followed his dream to be a musician and moved about the country writing and performing his music. John had an immense knowledge of holistic medicine. His expertise being natural remedies through vitamins, which he researched extensively. On the whole, John's life was full and diverse. Converting to Catholicism years ago, he always held close to his faith. His deep passion for life brought him many different directions and locations. John's deep intellect, combined with a rare and outstanding sense of humor crafted many deep and long-lasting friendships throughout his life. To know him was an honor. Family and friends are invited to John's memorial celebration at the Ricker Funeral Home in Lebanon, NH on Thursday, May 14th at 10:30 AM. An online guestbook is available to leave a message of condolence by visiting www.rickerfuneralhome.com https://www.legacy.com/obituaries/vnews/obituary.aspx?n=john-wahlstrom&pid=211282022&fhid=4684 Wed, 22 Apr 2026 04:00:00 GMT 211282022 Valley News Johann "Hans" Zopf Lyme, NH - Johann "Hans" Zopf passed April 15, 2026, in Lebanon, NH. Hans was born in Steinbach am Attersee, Austria on January 20, 1931. He began working at a young age as an apprentice in wood working. Later, he moved to Hohenems, Austria and began employment at the Kastle Ski Company. While there, his love of skiing took off. After a time, Hans was asked to consider moving to America as the ski technician for a U.S. importer/distributor of Kastle Skis. After discussion with his first wife, Erna, the answer was, yes! He and his family initially settled in Lebanon and later in Lyme, NH. Hans held a STRONG work ethic, worked hard all his life, and was a jack of many trades. Following his employment as a ski technician, he owned and operated a ski shop at the home he and friends built. He worked at the Dartmouth Skiway for 50 years (national ski patrol, ski instructor, lift attendant, trail prep, enjoyed feeding the birds during a free moment), and was a carpenter, painter, roofer. He wasn't all work and no play. He played hard, too! While he enjoyed skiing, hiking, hunting, and travel back to Austria, we know hang gliding held a special place in his heart, despite the broken rib and punctured lung he endured. We can only guess it was the freedom and quiet in the air, the exertion, the adrenaline, laughter, and camaraderie that retained his interest. Above all, Hans cherished his long-term friendships and family support. He was particularly thankful to his stepson, Keith, who joyously completed his "to do" lists and wishes. Family enjoyed witnessing the banter, regular check-ins, and the kind assistance these friends willingly provided, which became particularly important as his energy waned. Occasional food and meals were delivered, donuts and fish were shared, and a "Prost" was said followed by an occasional schnapps. Hans is survived by his wife, Sandi, who provided him the greatest love and care throughout their marriage; Sandi's three children, Debbie, Kevin, and Keith; friend Donna; his two daughters, Maria and Gretchen (Bob); his four grandchildren, Heather (Rob), Julie (Andy), Karoline and Krista; two great grandchildren Allie and Andrew. The family wishes to send special thanks to all his dear friends, Lyme community, and the Dartmouth Medical Center staff who provided great care to him during his last days. While Hans requested there be no services, an online guest book is available to leave a message of condolence, www.rickerfuneralhome.com https://www.legacy.com/obituaries/vnews/obituary.aspx?n=johann-zopf-hans&pid=211267164&fhid=4684 Sat, 18 Apr 2026 04:00:00 GMT 211267164 Valley News