Malcolm G. Sandison

BARRE - Malcolm G. Sandison, affectionately known as "McGee" to some and "P-nut" to others, passed away on August 13, 2025, at the age of 81 in Greensboro, Vermont. Born and raised in Barre, Vermont, Malcolm was full of curiosity and ambition from an early age - as a young boy, he once declared his dream was to become a coon hunter. That spirit of adventure and mischief stayed with him throughout his life. Malcolm graduated from Spaulding High School in 1961 and went on to earn a Bachelor of Science degree from Castleton in 1966, where he was a member of Phi Delta Theta Fraternity. A lifelong Vermonter, Malcolm's early career began in education, teaching middle school science and chemistry in the Marsh-Plain district. His teaching career was interrupted when he was drafted into the Vietnam War. During training, he was an honor graduate of Army Signal School, where he specialized in communications and electronics - skills he would put to use during his service in both Thailand and Vietnam under the 501st Signal Battalion. While serving, he was struck by lightning not once, but twice - a testament to his resilience and an explanation for many things moving forward in his life. Malcolm lived a life full of curiosity, purpose, and quiet impact. He was a dedicated gardener, known throughout Vermont for his artistry and care in cultivating beautiful landscapes. His love for plants and design took him as far as Washington, D.C., where he worked on the gardens of the Smithsonian Institution. Never one to stay idle, Malcolm tried his hand at many different jobs throughout his life, always eager to learn. An avid golfer in his youth and a man of deep passions, Malcolm cherished his Vermont roots and the community that surrounded him. Later he met the love of his life, Carol Hanson, whom he married in 1985. Through Carol, he became a devoted stepfather to Brian and Peter Sinclair. Malcolm and Carol shared many happy years at their home together in Craftsbury, Vermont. While sometimes uncouth, they spent their years together filled with a shared passion for cooking and gardening; years of laughter, love, and best of all many, many pranks upon friends and family, until her passing in 2006. He is predeceased by his parents, Peter and Bertice (Peck) Sandison; sisters Margaret "Tucky" Sancibrian and Penelope "Penny" Robie; his beloved wife, Carol Hanson; and stepsons Brian and Peter Sinclair. Malcolm is survived by his cherished granddaughters, Mariah (Ben) Luther of West Bend Wisconsin and Rebecca (Kevin) Stark of Montpelier, Vermont; great-grandchildren Lydia and Reid Luther of Wisconsin; beloved nephews, Bill, Michael, and Norman and adored niece Laurie; his dearest friend Marcia Henderson, and many others. A private graveside burial will be held at Plainmont Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Malcolm's name to the gardens of the Smithsonian or to the Vermont Garden Network Arrangements are in the care of Pruneau-Polli Funeral Home, 58 Summer St. in Barre Those wishing to express online condolences may do so at: www.pruneaupollifuneralhome.com