Wilmont Baenziger Flanders

Wilmont Baenziger Flanders, 99, died peacefully May 1, 2009 at Oakdale Nursing Home in West Boylston.

He leaves two sons, Rev. Alden B. Flanders and his wife Birgitte of Reading, Steven Flanders of Westminster, three grandchildren, Margrethe Flanders and her husband Aaron Lamb of Malden, Christian Flanders of New York City, Lowell Flanders of Washington, D.C. and beloved former daughter-in-law Vicki Braunhardt of Clinton. His wife of 65 years, Nancy Beaman Flanders predeceased him on April 26,2007.

Wilmont was born in Middleborough, the son of Bert W. and Luella (Baenziger) Flanders.

He was attracted to Aeronautical Engineering by the romance of flight and was involved in the development of jet engine technology before and during WWII. His first job was with Wright Aeronautical. In the late 40's and 50's he worked for Fairchild Engine Division on Long Island.  He finished his career with the Grumman Corporation where he was involved in the technology of the Lunar Exploration Module that accompanied the first Americans to the moon.

Mr. Flanders had been a resident of Princeton since 1979 and was the proud holder of the Boston Post Gold Cane for the oldest resident in Princeton. He enjoyed woodworking and listening to classical music and  Dixieland jazz.

Funeral services will be held at 2pm on Friday, May 8, 2009 at the First Congregational Church, 14 Mountain Rd. Princeton. Calling hours will be held from 7-9 pm.on Thursday, May 7 at CASWELL-KING FUNERAL HOME, 474 Grove St. Worcester. In lieu of flowers, Memorial donations may be sent to the Princeton Council on Aging, 18 Boylston Ave. Princeton, MA 01541.