Ronald A. Wilkin

SOUTH BARRE – Ronald A. “Chic” Wilkin, 86, of Howard Street passed away on Thursday, January 26, 2017 at his home.

Born November 6, 1930 in Barre Town, he was the son of John Arthur and Edith (Burton) Wilkin. Ronald attended South Barre Elementary School and Spaulding High School. In 1952, he joined the U.S. Marine Corps and served in the Korean Conflict with the 102 ^nd Air Wing until he was honorably discharged in 1954.

On October 15, 1955 he married Patricia Blair at the United Church in Williamstown. They first lived in Barre City before settling in South Barre 56 years ago.

Ronald was first employed by the EL Smith Quarry. He then worked for Bianchi Granite Company which was bought out by Nativi’s before becoming Granite Industries of Vermont. Ronald worked in the granite industry for 46 years. His memberships included the Summit Masonic Lodge #104 and Charity Chapter #57 of the Order of the Eastern Star both of Williamstown.

In his earlier years, Ronald enjoyed hunting, fishing and skiing with his nephews as well as woodworking and adding additions to their home with Peg’s help. He was always there when a neighbor or friend needed help or a loan of a tool.

In later years, instead of hunting, Ronald enjoyed feeding the wildlife during the winter months and the gray squirrels year round. He also enjoyed gardening and sharing vegetables, raspberries and blueberries with his neighbors. In the summer months, he would spend his evenings in the screen house he built reading and watching television. Ronald loved to go to Lafayette’s on the Ocean in Wells, Maine and travelling the Canadian Provence’s.

Survivors include his wife, Patricia, who lost her love and best friend; sister-in-law Ann Saliba of Springfield, MA; as well as several nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his parents; his sisters Gertrude Wilkin, Dorothy Blanchard and Marion Webster; and his brothers Carl, Ernest and John “Joe”.

A graveside service to celebrate and honor his life will be held at Hope Cemetery in Barre at a later date to be announced.

Memorial contributions may be made to Central Vermont Humane Society, PO Box 687, Montpelier, VT 05601. Special thanks go to Central Vermont Home Health and Hospice and neighbors for all their help.