Tag: Grafton

Muriel E. Stewart

From the July 7, 2003 issue of The Country Chronicle

Grafton, NH–Muriel Eileen “Gang” Stewart, 80, died Wednesday July 2, 2003 at her home in Grafton. She was born August 7, 1922, a daughter of the late Elsie (Wallace) and James Stewart in their home in Enfield, NH and graduated from Enfield High School. She was employed as a medical secretary at the Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center in Hanover and also worked at information services at Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center in Lebanon before her retirement after 40 years of service. She had also worked per diem at the Holiday Inn Express in Lebanon, NH.

She was predeceased by her parents and 3 brothers.

Survivors include her daughter and son-in-law: Priscilla & Bruce Baravalle of Grafton, NH; 2 grandsons and their wives: Todd & Karen Baravalle and Keith and Birdie Baravalle all of Grafton, NH; 3 sisters: Mary Munn of W. Lebanon, NH, Irene Davis and Elsie Belden both of Keene, NH; 1 brother; several nieces and nephews; and many dear friends.

Friends may call at the Ricker Funeral Home, 433 US Rte 4, in Enfield, NH, Sunday evening from 6-8 pm. Funeral services will be conducted Monday July 7 at 1 pm in the funeral home with burial to follow in the Pine Grove Cemetery in Grafton, NH.

Memorial contributions in memory of Mrs. Stewart may be made to: The Canaan Police Benevolent Assoc., PO Box 38, Canaan, NH 03741.

Arrangements were under the direction of the Ricker Funeral Homes of Lebanon & Enfield, NH.

Clayton F. Bassett

From the January 28, 2002 issue of The Country Chronicle

Grafton, NH–Clayton F. Bassett, 40, died in a tragic accident on January 15, 2002. A much loved man who grew up in Grafton, NH. Clayton lived in Novato, CA at the time of his death. His sister-in-law Laura said “He crammed 80 years into his short 40 years of life.” He lived life as there wasn’t a tomorrow and everyday was new and exciting to him. He loved his work with a passion. Long hours and hard work paid off as he directed his company, Peak Engineering, to become an enormous success. He had great respect for all the wonderful people he worked with. His brother-in-law Jay said, “There’ll never be another man such as Clayton.” He was devoted to his wife Barbara and their two children, Danielle and Breezy. Often he would come home after 12 hours of work and still had the energy to chase the girls around the house as they squealed with delight. He also saw Barbara through a recent serious illness with a strength and warmth few people possess.

Clayton was a devoted son to John Bassett and June (Valia) Burrington, both of Grafton. His father and mother both stated that, “We could never be more proud of a son than we were of Clayton.” Clayton was predeceased by his daughter Katie in 1994 at age 11. The loss of Katie was always present and encouraged him to always strive to be his best; and he was at everything he did. Clayton also had a very special bond with his nephews, Lief and Nathan Hogue. His family in California included his Uncle Wes Bassett and his wife Carole. Clayton will also be missed by countless friends in his hometown of Grafton.

Clayton enjoyed working with his hands and gained the nickname “Tinkerbell” on the family farm because of all his tinkering. You’d think a grown man would be embarrassed of that nickname, but not Clayton, he was proud. Even at an early age people around him were amazed at what he could accomplish when he set his mind to do it. Clayton enjoyed camping, skydiving, boating and riding ATV’s. Children held a special place in Clayton’s heart, not only his own, but any he was around. Though Clayton came across as a tough construction worker his heart was on his sleeve when a child was around. Whether it be playing peek-a-boo or just wanting to cuddle, Clayton loved when children were around him and the more the better.

Clayton served 4 years in the US Army where he earned numerous commendations, recognitions and awards. He was very proud of his enlisted years and even commented recently that he would gladly fight for his country in our most recent events. Clayton graduated from Mascoma Valley Regional High School. Clayton had a very special bond with his sister, Diane (Bassett) Burrington. His nickname for her was “Ding,” which he lovingly called her into adulthood. He loved telling stories about their growing up together in rural Grafton.

A celebration of Clayton’s life will take place on Wednesday, January 23 at 1:00 pm at Keaton’s Redwood Chapel of Marin located at 1801 Novato Blvd., Novato. Private visitation will begin at 12:00. Immediately after, all are invited to the Bassett Family home for a reception. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Clayton Bassett Memorial Fund which has been established at the First National Bank, 975 El Camino Real, S. San Francisco, CA 94080 Atten: Randy.

Albert George Belloir

From the April 24, 2000 issue of The Country Chronicle

Grafton, NH– Albert George Belloir, 68, died Saturday, April 22, 2000, at the Veterans Affair Hospital in White River Junction, VT following a long illness. He was born in Grafton, NH on March 31, 1932, a son of the late George L. and Lennie (Morse) Belloir. A lifelong Grafton resident, he attended local schools and was a U.S. Army Veteran. He had owned and operated his own drilling, lasting, and excavating business; had worked for Hazen Lumber Co., and had worked for Palazzi Construction Co. He was a member of the American Legion, and enjoyed bird-watching, gardening and visiting his friends.

He is survived by: Brothers, Lester E. of Franklin, NH, Lawrence E. of W. Canaan; Shirley R. of Andover, NH, and John D. of Franklin, NH; Sisters, Laura Hewitt of Grafton, NH, Barbara E. Cote of Bristol, NH, Avis M. Huckins of Milford, NH; and Frances E. Blanchard of Limington, ME; many nieces, nephews and cousins.

He was preceded in death by: George L. Belloir, Sr., father; Lennie Belloir, mother; and George L. Belloir, Jr., brother, who died on Nov. 30, 1998.

Friends may call at the Ricker Funeral Home, Rte. 4, Enfield, Tuesday evening from 7-9 pm. Graveside committal services will be held on Sunday, April 30 at 2 pm in the Pine Grove Cemetery in Grafton, NH. The Rev. Thomas Warner will officiate.

Memorial contributions in memory of Mr. Belloir may be made to: The Grafton Historical Society, c/o Town Offices, Grafton, NH 03204.

William F. Huntley

From the May 7, 2001 issue of The Country Chronicle

Grafton, NH–William F. Huntley, 84, died Wednesday May 2, 2001 at Concord Hospital in Concord, NH. HE was born in Lowell, MA December 18, 1916, a son of the late Joseph S. & Ethel F. (Adams) Huntley. He grew up in Lowell and attended local schools. Following his graduation from college, he was employed as an electrical engineer for Raytheon Corporation for 37 years retiring in 1977. He was married to Anna L. “Nan” (Cadigan) Huntley who died Oct 7, 1998. Mr. Huntley was a former active member of the Grafton Center Congregational Church, and the Masonic Lodge in Canaan, NH. He was an accomplished woodworker, lapadariast and jewelry maker. He and his wife had operated the HOPOLO Gift Shop in Grafton.

He was predeceased by his wife: Anna L. “Nan” (Cadigan) Huntley who died October 7, 1998; and a sister Margie.

Survivors include a sister: Alice White of Cincinnati, OH; a brother: Forrest “Mike” Huntley of West Yarmouth, MA; several nieces & nephews, and seven great-nieces & nephews.

Friend may call at the Ricker Funeral Home, Rte 4, Enfield, Friday evening from 6:30 to 8:30 pm. Funeral services will be conducted Saturday afternoon at 4 pm in the Grafton Center Congregational Church. The Rev. Thomas Warner will be in the Pine Grove Cemetery in Grafton.

Memorial contributions in memory of Mr. Huntley may be made to the Grafton Ambulance Squad or the Grafton Fire Dept.

John C. Johnson, Jr.

From the March 27, 2000 issue of The Country Chronicle

Grafton, NH–John C. Johnson, Jr., 36, of Grafton died on March 20, in Dorchester, NH. He was born in Lebanon on February 20, 1964 the son of the late John C. Johnson, Sr. and Vicki Maude Roberts Johnson. He was a lifelong resident of the Upper Valley and was a graduate of Mascoma Valley Regional High School. He was self employed in this area as a carpenter. He owned and operated John’s Fine Carpentry. He enjoyed his travels to Guam, Thailand, Korea, and loved to ride snowmobiles in this area.

He is survived by a daughter, Samantha Johnson of Grafton; two sisters, Bonnie Lee Johnson of Springfield, VA and Linda Johnson of Grafton; 3 brothers, Derek Drewniak of Enfield, Michael LaLiberte of Grafton, and Ralph Johnson of CA. An aunt and an uncle.

Private family services will be held at a later date. Memorial contributions may be made to Bonnie Lee Johnson, PO Box 2815, Merrifield, VA 22116.

Joseph “Toofie” F. Thomas

From the April 3, 2000 issue of The Country Chronicle

Lady Lake, FL–Joseph “Toofie” F. Thomas, 66, of Lady Lake died Sunday March 19, 2000. He was born in 1934 in Claremont, NH and moved in 1992 to Lady Lake, FL from Grafton, where he was the owner of the Grafton General Store.

Mr. Thomas had previously worked for the City of Cambridge, MA. And had owned J. F. Thomas & Sons Movers. He was a member of Elks Lodge No. 839 and Mizpath-Faith Masonic Lodge, both in Cambridge.

He was predeceased by a son, John F. Thomas, and a brother, Robert Thomas.

Survivors include his wife, Eleanor K. (Francis) Thomas of Lady Lake, FL; two daughters, Renee Nagle of Plymouth, MA, and Paula Webster of Grafton, NH; two sons, Joseph III of Grafton, NH and James F. of Grafton, MA, four brothers and four sisters; 11 grandchildren; and one great-grandson.

He will be buried in Grafton, NH at a later date.

Herluf K. Hansen

From the July 3, 2000 issue of The Country Chronicle

Grafton, NH–Herluf K. Hansen, 70, of Grafton, NH died on Friday evening, June 23, 2000, at the Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center in Lebanon. He was born in Odense, Denmark on May 23, 1930 a son of Karl and Ane (Sorensen) Hansen. He grew up in Denmark and came to the United States in 1954 living in Michigan. He moved to Framingham, MA in 1960. He worked as a carnation grower at Bay State Carnation Association. He was married to Mildred Robinson on October 27, 1962 and moved to Hopkinton, MA in 1967. He worked at Noremac Machine Company as a machine repair technician until 1992 when he and his wife retired to Grafton, NH. While in Hopkinton he was active in Boy Scouts, Lions Club, and the St. Paul’s Episcopal Church.

He is survived by his wife Mildred of Grafton, 2 sons, Nils Hansen of Pepperell, MA and Kurt Hansen of Arlington, VA. 6 brothers, Paul, Bente, and Viggo of Norway, and Uffee, Niels, and Anton of Denmark. 2 sisters, Ester Jensen and Anna Christiansen both of Denmark. Many Nieces and Nephews.

A memorial gathering will be held at the home of Nils and Raylene Hansen, 38-A Shattuck Street, Pepperell, MA on Saturday July 8 from 2 to 5 pm. Ricker Funeral Home of Lebanon is in charge of arrangements.

From the July 24, 2000 issue of The Country Chronicle

A graveside service for Herluf Hansen, who died June 23 at the age of 70, will be held Sat. July 29, at 2 pm at the Wells Cemetery in Canaan.

Charlene R. (Smith) Bowen

From the May 24, 1999 issue of The Country Chronicle

Grafton, NH–Charlene R. (Smith) Bowen, 34, of Sargent Hill Road, died April 16,1999. She was born in Concord, NH on Jan. 31, 1965. She had resided in Franklin, NH before moving to Grafton 14 years ago. For the past year she had been employed by Dartmouth College in Controlled Storage Security. She worked with the Friends of the Grafton Community Building and helped her husband with his painting business. She enjoyed cooking, dining out, and had a good sense of humor. Members of her family surviving include her husband of 14 years, Thomas W. Bowen of Grafton, NH; seven children, Thomas W. Bowen, Jr. of Northfield, NH, Michelle Moses of Salisbury, NH, Georgette Bowen of Franklin, NH, Josephine Claremont of Laconia, NH, Josh Smith of Laconia, NH, Levi Bowen of Grafton, NH, and Timmy Bowen of Grafton, NH; four grandchildren, Zachary, Jasmine, Nicole and Craig; her father, Carlton Smith of Franklin, NH; her mother, Nancy Parris of Andover, NH; two brothers, Steven Smith of Boscawen, NH and Robert Smith of Penacook, NH; a sister, Joyce Parris of Boston, MA; several stepbrothers and stepsisters; aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins. Graveside services will be held in Pine Grove Cemetery, Grafton, NH at a later date. Chadwick Funeral Services of New London, NH is in charge of arrangements.

Graveside services on Sat., May 22, 1999 at 3:00 pm in the Pine Grove Cemetery, Grafton, NH.

Robert William Prosser

From the January 22, 1997 of The Country Chronicle

Grafton, NH–Robert William Prosser, 49, died on January 15, 1997 at the Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center in Lebanon. He attended North Providence, RI high school and lived in North Providence until moving to NH in 1976. While in RI he was self-employed as a commercial fisherman in Warwick. He was married on June 5, 1965 to Rachel Vaillant. They made their home in Canaan and Grafton, NH since their marriage. He owned and operated Bob’s Classic Auto Body in Grafton for many years, restoring classic street rods. He enjoyed prospecting for gold and was in the process of forming a business “Week-Enders Gold” prospecting equipment in Grafton.

Friends called at the Ricker Funeral Home in Enfield on Saturday from 9 a.m. until noon. Memorial contributions may be made to the Grafton Police Department, c/o Merle Kenyon, Grafton, NH 03240.

Survivors include: his wife, Rachel Prosser of Grafton; his mother, “Betty” Prosser Jackson of Cumberland, RI; a daughter, Michelle Mullen of Groton, NH; a daughter, Barbie Lemire of Gilford, NH; a brother, Stephen Prosser of Eden Mills, VT; a sister, Barbara Semenkow of Lincoln, RI; a sister, Betty-Jo Jackson of Woonsocket, RI; his maternal grandmother, Beatrice Meenan of Smithfield, RI; five grandchildren, aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins.

Laura E. (Hill) Littlefield

from the January 5, 1998 issue of The Country Chronicle

Grafton, NH–Laura E. (Hill) Littlefield, 94, of Grafton and Lebanon Genesis Eldercare Network, died December 27, 1997 at Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center in Lebanon, NH while surrounded by love with her family members. Born on November 19, 1903 in Bristol, NH the daughter of William and Jennie (Sawyer) Hill, she was married to Fred S. Littlefield on November 28, 1927. She had a daughter, Dorothy Jennie (Duefield) on June 21, 1929. Both her husband and daughter have predeceased her. She was well knwn to the community for her old fashioned cooking style, love of family and friends alike, enjoying a good dance with plenty of singing of songs, the enjoyment of making a quilt in earlier years with her daughter, granddaughter, sister, Margaret and friends. She had an exceptional ability of embroidery which lives on in her past works of quilts, scarfs, pillow cases, etc. which family members and friends hold dear to their hearts in the memory of Laura. Mrs. Littlefield’s outdoor activities include fishing and a love of birds and all wildlife, working in the family garden and then canning of vegetables, pruning and caring for her flowers, especially her old fashioned wild roses, which can be seen each and every summer. Her favorite activity in her later years was to sit on her porch and visit with friends and relatives as they stopped by. A devout Catholic, Mrs. Littlefield, while living at home was visited by Sister Mary whom Laura and family members have the warmest regard for. She was living at the home of her son-in-law, Harold E. Duefield, Jr. and was attended by her grand-daughter-in-law, Ruth Cushing, with love and consideration before moving to Lebanon Genesis Eldercare Network. Mrs. Littlefield was also predeceased by sisters, Mary Jennie Hill, Madeline Mary Holmes, Alice Smith and brothers, William Jr., Albert, George and Joseph. Surviving sisters are Ida Young of Hampton Falls, NH, Beatrice Rollins of Plymouth, NH and Margaret Warcup of Grafton, NH who has been sharing a room with her sister, Laura, enjoying discussions and memories of their childhood and adult life while under the care of the Lebanon Genesis Eldercare Network. She is also survived by her son-in-law Harold E. Duefield, Jr., grandchildren Harold E. Duefield the 3rd, Frederick S. Duefield and Laura Ann Duefield all of Grafton, NH; great-grandchildren Philip E. Rowe (Duefield), Christy Lynn Woodard of W. Lebanon, NH, Amy Lyn Duefield of Grafton, NH and Daniel E. Duefield of Enfield, NH; one great-great-granddaughter, Samantha Ann Dole of W. Lebanon, NH; nieces, nephews and cousins; all of whom are going to miss Laura’s wonderful smile, sense of humor and devotion to family and friends. Friends called at the Chadwick Funeral Home, 174 Main St., New London on Tuesday, December 30th from 7-8:30 p.m. with a service that followed from 8:30-9 p.m. Graveside services will also be held in Pine Grove Cemetery in Grafton, NH in the spring.