Willard Earle Dezotelle, Sr.
WATERVILLE: Willard Earle Dezotelle, Sr., 88, passed away peacefully on Friday, June 28, supported by the love and care of his four sons and their families.
Willard was born on July 28, 1930, in Belvidere, the son of Harold Dezotelle and Muriel Colburn. He grew up in Belvidere, attending schools there and in Waterville.
On Aug. 27, 1948, Willard married Delia Dezotelle (nee Quinty), the great love of his life. Together, they raised their family in Waterville. Willard began a lifelong career in agriculture early in life, farming, sugaring, and logging in the area. He operated the Manchester Farm for 45 years for the Henry Manchester family. Until the day he retired, he could be found milking the Holsteins, tending the fields and pastures, and collecting eggs from the chickens. After Delia passed away in November 2015, Willard lived with his son, Willard Jr., and daughter-in-law, Barbara.
Willard is survived by his four sons and their spouses, Willard “Pete” Dezotelle, Jr., and wife, Barbara; Dan Dezotelle and wife, Janet; Doug Dezotelle and wife, Joanne; and Randy Dezotelle and wife, Cindy. He is also survived by 10 grandchildren, 7 great-grandchildren (with another due this summer), and one step-great-grandchild. Willard is also survived by a brother, Lyman Dezotelle; a half-sister, Verna Longe; and a half-brother, Harold “Bud” Dezotelle, Jr.
Willard was predeceased by his beloved wife, Delia. He was also predeceased by a sister, Berle Callahan; and two brothers, Philip Dezotelle and Lloyd Dezotelle
Willard’s family is grateful for the compassionate and gentle in-home support provided by Lamoille Home Health & Hospice to Willard in his final days.
A memorial service for Willard will be held on Saturday, July 13, at 1 p.m. at the Waterville Union Church, 37 Church St., Waterville, VT. Burial will take place at Belvidere Center Cemetery following the service. A reception will take place at the Waterville Union Church fellowship hall below the chapel following the burial. All are welcome to attend.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in memory of Willard to Lamoille Home Health & Hospice, 54 Farr St., Morrisville, VT 05661. Online donations can be made at www.justgiving.com/lamoillehomehealthagencyinc.
