East Montpelier, VT Howard E. Walbridge 90, died Friday, May 16, 2008 at his home in East Montpelier. He was born in Cabot, Vermont on July 12, 1917 the son of George and Frances (Christie) Walbridge. Howard graduated from Cabot High School in 1935 and St. Johnsbury Trade School in 1936. Howard graduated from Lyndon Normal School in 1941, and taught in a one-room school in Union Village, Thetford for two years. Teaching in a rural school with eight grades was one of his fondest memories. During World War II, Howard joined the Air Force, and served in North Africa and Europe. Following the ward, he earned his Master's Degree from University of Vermont and continued his educational work, as a classroom teacher and administrator in the Northeast Kingdom. In 1952, Howard entered the field of vocational rehabilitation for the State of Vermont. He worked both as a counselor and as the Director of the Division of the Blind and Visually Handicapped until his retirement. Howard enjoyed traveling, gardening and working in his woodworking shop. Howard was first married in 1940 to Anna Palmer, with whom he had three children. In 1970 Howard married Alice Patterson of Middlesex. For the last thirty years, they have made their home in East Montpelier. Howard is survived by his wife, Alice, his children, Lucille Jansen, Robin Walbridge, and Delia Mae Gosikowa, and his step-son, Steven Patterson. He had eight grandchildren, and five great grandchildren. Howard will be dearly missed by his family and friends throughout Vermont. A Memorial Mass will be celebrated on Thursday, May 22, 2008 at 11:00 a.m., from St. Augustine Catholic Church. A reception will follow in the parish hall. Burial will be at St. Augustine Cemetery.