Plainfield, VT Alexander E.G. Van Der Bellen, 88, of Plainfield died on November 9, 2016, after a long and courageous battle with Parkinson's disease at the Four Seasons Community Care Home in Northfield. He was born in Doylestown, PA on February 2, 1928, the son of George and Irene (Kulbach) Van Der Bellen. Alexander served his country during World War II as a non-commissioned officer in both the United States Army and Navy. He was honorably discharged in June 1947 He attended schools in Saginaw, MI. He later earned his Master's degree for the University of Michigan. In June 1964, he married Joanne Ruskin in Detroit, MI. He had a fondness for the several dogs he owned over the years. He was an avid reader and enjoyed the cultural arts and classical music. Perhaps Alex's greatest enjoyment was running his dogs in the woods. Survivors include his wife, Joanne of Plainfield, VT; a son, Alexander "Sasha" Van Der Bellen of Washington, D.C., and a brother, Richard Staudt, of Montpelier. There will be no calling hours. A private celebration will be held in the spring. Memorial contributions may be made to the Central Vermont Humane Society, P.O. Box 687, Montpelier, VT 05602.