Class Notes

Send alumni news and class notes via email to classnotes@westminster-school.org. Send updates to contact information to spierson@westminster-school.org

Class notes with numbers correspond with their submitted photos.

1959

Charley Zimmer reports, “Gail and I are living in Jacksonville, Florida, on the beautiful St. Johns River. We’ve definitely downsized — less space and fewer dogs! The weather here is superb, and we’re happy we made the move from Michigan. Our kids all live near I-95, and it’s a straight shot for them to visit us. We’re not traveling much anymore and are simply content to sit still, read, listen to good music and talk with family and friends. My Westminster memories are still some of the happiest of my life. My parents were wise to send me to Simsbury, even if it was a financial burden. I know I grew into a better person because of that experience. It’s a wonderful thing to stay in touch with the other ’59ers. Hope all is as well as possible with you and our classmates. Grit and grace always!”

“Congratulations and thanks to Lee Dunham,” says Phil Kerr, “on taking on the role of class secretary. The right man for the job.”

1961

Sam Gawthorp celebrated his 60th wedding anniversary with a two week vacation rental on Lake Thun in Oberhofen, Switzerland. “We’ve visited Switzerland more than a dozen times over the years, and long ago identified Lake Thun as the perfect place for an extended stay. We invited our two children and their families, including four grandchildren in their 20s. The trip turned into a magical time as our children and grandchildren came and went.” circumstances. The government isn’t capitalizing on its greatest asset: its people. Everything is in a state of decay, with people working to restore cars, buildings and infrastructure using limited resources. Still, they carry on with smiles and humor. Art, music and food are sources of pride. It’s an incredible place of contrasts.”

1967

Evan Boenning hosted Lars Forsberg at his home in Rhode Island. “While reading about this year’s Bermuda Race, I saw Lars Forsberg’s name — his 24th time competing! I wondered if it was our classmate.”

Classmates Dick Bondy and David Keene caught up over coffee in Charleston on April 11, 2025.

1966

Glen Craft and his wife Cheryl visited several vineyards during a cruise through Portugal in October 2024.

Over the winter, Brian O’Donnell vacationed in Mexico with classmates Scott Glickenhaus and Elliot Cahn.

Jody Vail reports, “On April 14, 2025, Jeff Cook, John Knox, Robert Hawes and I enjoyed a meal and hilarity in Boston, as we have done every year for the past 55 years — without missing a single one! We were all handsome and erudite, though mental acuity was occasionally suspect.”

Jeff Cook reports from his trip to Cuba, “I found amazing people — smart, industrious, creative and engaged — living in difficult

Steve Foehl, longtime executive director of New Jersey Golf, has been named to its Hall of Fame Class of 2025. He began his golf administration career in 1977 and led the organization through decades of growth. Member clubs increased from 150 to 280, individual memberships rose from 24,000 to more than 75,000 and annual caddie scholarships grew from 115 to 200. He also expanded the championship schedule and launched initiatives like Member Golf Days, the association’s magazine and its first website. He served on several national boards and received the USGA’s Ike Grainger Award and the IAGA Distinguished Service Award. He continues to serve as a valued consultant.

1968

Porter Berry had the pleasure of a mid-morning coffee and pastry stop with classmate Tom Remley. Tom was driving from Wisconsin to Los Angeles to pick up his bride, who had been in Japan.

Jake Horne with his wife Lisa and their four grandkids.

1969

Richard Porth and wife Debbie standing on a corner in Winslow, Arizona!

William Caldwell and Judy (Zimmer) Harlow found each other in South Carolina and are now neighbors. “Judy was one of the faculty families at Andrews House back in 1967. She attends my softball games. We often sit around reminiscing about Westminster and are encouraging our grandkids to consider it. It’s a small world!”

O.P. Jackson and Chris Rice found the Westminster School flag at Blackstone’s Café in Beaufort, South Carolina.

1971

Bill Coleman attended the Super Bowl with his friend Crawford Hill. “We’ve been going to Eagles games together for 61 years. Go Birds!”

Will Rolfing and his wife took a two-and-a-half-month journey through South America, including much of the coastline. “It was a friendly, diverse and picturesque adventure.”

1972

David Griffith’s term as chairman of the Academy of Natural Sciences ended in March 2025 after a six-year run. He also retired as head coach at Episcopal Community Services in March 2024.

1973

Franklin Morton reports “Last November, I set a goal to ski 70 days — one for each year of my life. I surpassed it, hitting the slopes 87 times at Deer Valley, just outside my home in Utah.”

1975

Carol Taylor Aiken was sorry to have missed the reunion. “I was hiking the Camino de Santiago. If you’ve never done it, put it at the top of your list.”

Livestreaming the Deerfield and Belmont Hill games between runs during the last two days of Westminster varsity boys’ regular season at John Armour’s house in Park City. From left to right are Piper Stevens ’70, John Armour ’76, Mike Jackson ’75, Paul Armour ’74 and Scott Stevens.

Rick Ford’s book, “The Invisible Yankee,” may be finished this year. “I just signed off on the cover,” he writes.

Spike Lobell writes, “It was fantastic seeing classmates and surrounding classes at the Flock Reunion last June. I urge everyone to attend next time! The memories — many going back over 50 years — were vivid. In 2024, I traveled to New Zealand, Finland and Scandinavia, and also worked on building a new cruising sailboat. Perhaps bigger news: Right after reunion, I returned to NESS (New England Science & Sailing Foundation) — the nonprofit I founded in 2002 and retired from in 2021 — as CEO. NESS now partners with schools and organizations across the country, including Horizons at Westminster, teaching STEM through sailing and other water-based platforms to roughly 6,000 students. While returning as CEO wasn’t planned, I’m excited to lead our outstanding team again. Most exciting of all: Betsy and I got engaged over New Year’s. I’m looking forward to the future on all levels!”

Jeff Mills hosted classmates Scott Reed, David Wood, Otis Bradley, Laz Santiago and Wally Taylor and their significant others for a mini-reunion in Southern California.

1976

Stephen MacKenzie reports, “Big year for grandbabies! Stuart ’11 and his wife Blake welcomed daughter Parker Hopkins MacKenzie on April 14. My son Drew and his wife Nikki welcomed son John “Jack” Nicholas MacKenzie on Feb. 22.

Betsy Blumenthal writes, “No major milestones — still with Kroll after 36 years. Our two sons aren’t married and we don’t have grandchildren yet. Still, I’m grateful to be kicking and excited to see everyone at our 50th.”

Bob Bristow, Jonathan Seymour and John Fowler got together for dinner at John’s house in April.

Liz McGrath Durkin reports, “My husband

Tim and I enjoy living on the New Hampshire coast, where we raised our family. We recently became grandparents and love spending time with our three grandsons. I’ve been in touch with Jenn Keyo, who is diligently planning our 50th Reunion. I look forward to reconnecting!”

1977

Peter Willard completed a series of small winter landscape paintings in January 2025.

Hunter Millington retired last year after 40 years in publishing. He writes, “Married all that time to Jessica, we split time between Manhattan and Westhampton Beach, Long Island. We try to travel abroad a couple of times a year — last year, France and Argentina, this year, the Pacific Northwest and Eastern Europe. I no longer race motorcycles, but enjoy live music, landscaping and visiting friends.

Cindy Gould shares, “I recently finished work on the new Disneyland ride, Tiana’s Bayou Adventure. Hopefully, I’ve climbed my last scaffold. Looking forward to the 50th!”

This spring, Newt Kimberly and his wife traveled to Cascais, Portugal. “It was stunning,” he writes.

1978

Mark Wallace is excited to be a class agent and help plan the 50th reunion. He reports, “Alicia, Beth, Jock and I are determined to make it our best ever. Kristen and I have been married 43 years. I retired in 2018 and enjoy time with our three grandkids — Grayson, 2, and 1-year-old twins Hudson and Blakesly. We split our time between Vermont, Florida and Michigan.”

Beth Anderson Coogan writes, “I’m retiring in June after 40 years as a school psychologist. I recently visited classmate Jenny O’Brien and thoroughly enjoyed the Flock Reunion. I’ll also be helping my husband Tom promote his first book, “Deadheads and Christians,” at Grateful

Dead-related shows. We live near Princeton, New Jersey, with two grown children and two needy dogs.”

Alicia Markus Wagner reports, “Still based outside Boston, though we get to our Cape house often. Our kids are in Nashville, Denver and nearby Andover, Massachusetts. A recent family ski trip to Zermatt was stunning. We now have two adorable grandbabies, 1 and 2 years old, who run the show. Our black Labs, Goose and Remy, take us for beach walks — mostly so they can chase seagulls and ignore us.”

A shoutout from Jock Danforth to the Class of 1978: “Looking forward to our 50th. Amy and I are well and busy. We have three adult children nearby — two are married, and Maggie, our youngest, is getting married in mid-June! Will ’09 and his wife have a 1-year-old daughter, and our daughter Kate and her husband have a 2½-year-old boy and 1-year-old girl. They call us “Pop” and “Mimi.” I just retired from nearly 40 years in wealth management; Will and his team are taking over. We spent six weeks in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, and I skied over 30 days. Hoping for more next year after a knee replacement!”

William F. Paley. We opened April 3, 2025, at the Winter Garden Theatre.”

Ward Duffy is currently in the Broadway company of “Good Night, and Good Luck.” He writes, “I’m part of the onstage ensemble, covering George Clooney as Edward R. Murrow and Paul Gross

Heather Frahm shared a photo from the celebration for Larry Green ’86 following his death. Back row: Dan Lynch, Mark McKay, Paul McLaughlin, Mark St. Amant, Jeff Tindall ’87, Micky Terry Front row: Amy Thrall Flynn, Moy Ogilvie, Betsy Potter McCormick, Jen Browne Urbanski, Heather Frahm, Katy Hansen. Also in attendance but not pictured: Topher Newmann, Paul Gitterman, Alex Gray and Matt Vendetti ’89

Malcolm Miller (Trinity ’90) and Aly Tolba ’18 (Trinity ’22) teamed up for a squash doubles tournament in February — and won! Malcolm writes, “Aly, now on the PSA Squash Tour, carried us to victory. It was a blast to represent our school and college.”

1989

Rick Wilcox spent spring break at JetBlue Park. “One of the perks of working in schools — I still get spring break!”

2000

Emmy Josephine Roberts, daughter of Benjamin Roberts, was born December 28, 2024.

2001

Sean Devlin is currently living outside Boston. He writes, “With two kids under 10, life is busy with work and the kids’ activities. I lost my job with an energy infrastructure company in February 2024 due to restructuring. After a great 14-year run, the Westminster network helped me land a new role quickly with Pavion, a Wind Point Partners portfolio company. I’m grateful to the Westy network!”

Lisa Sydney reports, “I stepped into a new role this winter with Franklin Yard, a boutique SAT/ACT tutoring and test prep company. As partnership development manager, I’m building relationships with high schools and consultants to expand access to highquality prep services. My family and I live in the Philadelphia area.”

2003

Kimberly Sullivan Mazzone and her husband Carl welcomed their son, Daniel Joseph Sullivan Mazzone, on October 26, 2024. He joins older siblings Ben, 10, and Adrienne, 6.

2005

For the past two years, Jonathan Leathers has helped sponsor training and equipment for Ukrainian civil defense units — everything from drones to winter gear. He writes, “They’ve had great success retaking territory. I’ve launched Ukraine Torch, a veteran-led 501(c)(3) nonprofit also aiding in reconstruction and humanitarian projects. I invite fellow alumni to get involved — donate or volunteer! Learn more: ukrainetorch.com/donate or email jonathan.o.leathers@gmail.com.”

Julia Rubicam Clouse ’05 and her husband Andrew, along with their children Emmaline and Henry, welcomed twin babies, Jethro Stephen and Georgia Chiyeko, on August 8, 2024. Life is love and chaos.

2011

Matthew Leach and Katherine Falk Desloge were married on April 26, 2025 in St. Louis, Missouri. Over 25 alumni and parents of alumni were in attendance. It was truly a magical celebration!

2015

Nick Rocco and his wife Katie welcomed their daughter, Caroline, on December 10, 2024.

2018

Zach Tarazi, Elton Painstil and Marshall Watts met up for a weekend in Tampa, Florida.

2022

Ben Mihailovich was featured in an article on chapelboro.com for his basketball stat work at the University of North Carolina. https://chapelboro.com/sports/the-uncmens-basketball-statistical-archive-goesway-deeper-than-you-thought

Obituaries

1942

David Partridge, a longtime Vermont resident and outdoorsman, died peacefully on March 31, 2025, one week after his 100th birthday. Born March 25, 1925, in Proctor, Vermont, he graduated from Westminster School in 1942. He attended MIT and later served in the U.S. Navy as an aviation electronics mate in World War II. After the war, he earned degrees in electrical engineering and business administration from the University of Vermont. Partridge began as a quality control engineer at General Electric, but soon followed a more independent path. In 1956, he co-founded The Yodler ski lodge in Stowe, where he met Dolores Brock. They married in 1960 and later moved to Montpelier, where he led Wyman’s Inc. until his retirement in 1989. An inventive skier and sailor, he developed an early ski race timing system, served on the Mount Mansfield Ski Club board and raced to Bermuda in 1952. In retirement, he and Dolores traveled extensively and stayed active with trail building and maple sugaring. He was predeceased by brothers Charles Partridge ’28 and Sanborn Partridge ’32. Survivors include his wife Dolores; children Janet Alvarez, David B. Partridge and Laura Partridge; and six grandchildren.

1947

Nesbitt Blaisdell, a stage and screen actor and longtime educator, died December 3, 2024, at age 95. Born December 6, 1928, in New York City and raised in Washington, D.C., he graduated from Westminster School and Amherst College. He served in the U.S. Marine Corps during the Korean War and earned an MFA in directing from Columbia University in 1958. Blaisdell began his acting career in 1957 with the Anna Sokolow Dance Troupe. He trained in the Stanislavski method and taught theater at several colleges over 15 years. He returned to acting full time in 1975 and appeared offBroadway at the Public Theater and Irish

Repertory Theatre, among others. His Broadway credits included roles in “Cat on a Hot Tin Roof” and “Abe Lincoln in Illinois.” He performed at regional theaters nationwide and internationally in Canada, Hong Kong and Dublin. His film and TV work included “Dead Man Walking,” “Funny Farm,” “Law & Order,” “Oz” and “Empire Falls.” In retirement, he restored the family farmhouse, Wellhouse, in North Laurel, Maryland, and enjoyed walks in the woods. He is survived by his wife, a sister, a niece and two nephews; three sons, a daughter and four grandchildren.

Marcus “Marc” White, of Orford, New Hampshire, and Longmeadow, Massachusetts, died February 28, 2025, at age 95, surrounded by his wife of 72 years, Joan, and their three children. Born May 10, 1929, in New Britain, Connecticut, he graduated from Westminster School, Harvard College in 1951, and Harvard Business School in 1955. He served in the U.S. Coast Guard during the Korean War. White spent 42 years in corporate development, specializing in international mergers and acquisitions. His work took him to more than 40 countries. He retired as director of worldwide strategic planning for Emhart Inc., having also worked at Texon Inc. and The Dexter Corporation. In retirement, Marc and Joan moved to a 200-year-old family farmhouse in Orford. Known for his bond with animals, he volunteered as a docent at the Squam Lakes Natural Science Center and at the VINS Raptor Center in Vermont. A devoted naturalist, birder and family man, he followed world events and sports — especially the WNBA — and delighted in his role as “Grandpa Dr. Doolittle.” He is survived by his wife Joan; children Marc III, Elizabeth and Nicholas; seven grandchildren; five greatgrandchildren; his sister Elizabeth Love; and cousin Jeanne Host.

1949

Robert Kitchel, 94, of Nashville, Tennessee, died peacefully at home on February 18, 2025. Born September 14,

1930, in Islip, New York, he grew up in Wilmington, Delaware, and Kennett Square, Pennsylvania. He graduated from Westminster School, where he captained the tennis team, and earned a Bachelor of Science in commerce from the University of Virginia. At UVA, he was president of Chi Psi and a member of Tilka. He began his career at Hercules Powder Company in Wilmington. In 1960, he married Emily Fletcher and moved to Nashville, where he became president and owner of E.S. Brugh Company. After selling the firm in 1988, he continued his career at Crichton, Perry and Brandon until retirement. Kitchel served more than 20 years on the Vestry at St. George’s Episcopal Church, including as senior warden. He held leadership roles with The Harpeth Hall School, The Ensworth School and Cheekwood, and was active in civic and social organizations. A lifelong tennis player, he won numerous titles and cherished time with family in Sea Island, Georgia, and Delray Beach, Florida. He is survived by his wife Emily; daughters Emily and Helen; five grandchildren; one great-grandson; and 10 nieces and nephews.

Ronald A. Mitchell Jr., 95, of Adams, Massachusetts, died April 13, 2025, at North Adams Regional Hospital. Born January 18, 1930, in Springfield, Massachusetts, he graduated from Stafford Springs High School and attended Westminster School for a post-graduate year. Ronald served in the U.S. Navy during the Korean War. He worked for many years as a car salesman with Bedard Brothers Auto Dealership in Cheshire, Mass. where he was known for his integrity and commitment to customers. A member of the North Adams First Congregational Church, he embraced retirement as an opportunity to explore the world. He traveled extensively, visiting Africa, Russia, Mongolia, Vietnam and Scotland. He was predeceased by his wife, Ruth L. Sherwood Mitchell, whom he married on February 29, 1964. He is survived by his son Ronald A. Mitchell III; daughter Nancy Appel; brother John Mitchell; three grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.

1951

Edward “Ned” Bliss, 92, of Sherborn, Massachusetts, died February 6, 2025. Born in Boston and raised in Chestnut Hill and Sherborn, both in Massachusetts, he graduated from Noble & Greenough School and Westminster School before earning his degree from Harvard College in 1955. At Harvard, he played hockey and rowed crew, and was a member of the A.D. Club. After serving in the U.S. Army, Bliss began his career in banking at State Street Bank. He later worked in investment counseling at Eaton & Howard, Loomis Sayles & Company, Eaton Vance and ultimately Morgan Stanley, retiring in 2020. He served on boards including Stayhealthy Inc., Sierra Pacific Resources and the Massachusetts SPCA. He also chaired Friends of Harvard Hockey and supported youth sports throughout his life. In the 1990s, he and his wife Anne took up carriage driving and competed throughout the Northeast and Florida. They were longtime members of the American Driving Society and the Carriage Association of America.

Bliss found his greatest joy with family, whether cruising the New England coast or fly fishing in Rangeley, Maine. He is survived by daughters Molly Lee, Miriam McManus and Bonnie Fratini; nine grandchildren; and 13 greatgrandchildren.

Sidney Smith Gorham III, 92, of Newport, Rhode Island, died March 14, 2025. Born in Chicago in 1932 and raised in Winnetka, Illinois, he graduated from Westminster School, where he captained the tennis team and played hockey and football. He later attended Princeton and graduated from the University of Illinois in 1956, where he also played varsity tennis. Gorham began his career at Marshall Field & Co. and traveled through Europe before finding his calling in education. He taught math at the Hun School in Princeton, New Jersey, and, with his wife, Jean, served as co-head of The Newport School for Girls. After the school closed in 1973, he began a successful real estate career. He founded Gorham Real Estate and developed several notable projects. A past president of the State Realtors Commercial/Industrial Division, he was named Rhode Island Realtor’s Teacher of the Year in 1990. Gorham was active in civic life, including leadership roles at Trinity Church, Child and Family Services of Newport County and the Rose Island Lighthouse Foundation. He is survived by his wife of 62 years, Jean Howell Gorham; his son Sidney S. Gorham IV; and two grandsons.

Peter Kean Roosevelt, 91, of Denver, died December 3, 2024. Born March 19, 1933, in New York City, he spent his early years in Oyster Bay, Long Island, where he developed a lifelong love of the sea. At 17, he crewed in the Newport to Bermuda Race aboard his uncle’s yacht. Peter attended The Hill School and Westminster School before enrolling at the University of Colorado, where he discovered a passion for geology. He mined in Ward, Colorado, skied and mountaineered in the Rockies and built a log cabin — cementing his connection to the American West. He married Marjorie “Midge” Snyder in 1956, and the couple raised their family in Denver. Roosevelt worked in various fields before finding his niche in oil exploration, founding Half Shell Oil Company and later Roosevelt Operating Company. He remained active in his business until shortly before his death. Also a painter and poet, he created plein air landscapes of Colorado and Nantucket and loved reciting verse. He is survived by his wife Marjorie; children James, Christine and Margaret; four grandchildren; and five greatgrandchildren.

Roger Hendricks Söderberg, 92, of Spartanburg, South Carolina, died February 20, 2024, at Greenville Memorial Hospital. Born December 21, 1931, in Philadelphia, he was the son of O.A. and Edith Williams Söderberg. He graduated from Westminster School and earned a degree from Yale University’s School of Engineering. Söderberg began his career in 1960 with Deering Milliken Research and rose to become director of development for Milliken & Company’s

Specialty Industrial Business. In 1968, he was appointed plant manager of the Valway Plant in LaGrange, Georgia, where he worked for much of his professional life. He retired in 1997. A lifelong outdoorsman, he enjoyed golf, fishing and hunting. He was a member of the Episcopal Church of the Advent and is remembered for his quiet leadership, technical expertise and dedication to family. He is survived by his wife of 58 years, Anna Johnson Söderberg; daughter Karen Lyon; son Brian Söderberg; and two grandchildren.

1952

Benjamin C. Altschul, 89, of Hamilton, New York, died peacefully at home on May 6, 2024, just days before his 90th birthday. Born in Norfolk, Virginia, he graduated from Norfolk Academy and Westminster School, and earned a bachelor’s degree in commerce from the University of Virginia in 1956. At UVA, he was a member of Zeta Beta Tau and the ROTC, and served as a First Lieutenant in the U.S. Army, later rising to captain in the Reserves. Altschul began his career at Stern’s Department Store in New York City, then returned to Norfolk to join the family business, Altschul’s Department Store. He later founded Ben Altschul Realtor, focusing on properties near Old Dominion University, a career he sustained for more than 50 years. A lifelong outdoorsman, he loved sailing on the Chesapeake Bay and hiking in the Blue Ridge Mountains. He was an active member of Ohef Sholom Temple, serving on the board and chairing the house committee. Altschul was known for his warmth, daily fitness routine and kindness. He is survived by his wife of 47 years, Candace Summers, and extended family and friends.

1955

Harold Ostby Anthony, of Buskirk, New York, died peacefully on February 28, 2025. Born in Providence, Rhode Island, he attended Rectory School and graduated from Westminster School. He earned a teaching degree from Texas Tech University. Anthony served in the U.S. Air Force as an aircraft mechanic while stationed in Texas. He later settled in New York, where he taught mathematics for many years before working as a mail carrier for the U.S. Postal Service in Mechanicville, retiring from that role. A man of many interests, he was a licensed pilot, traveler and sports enthusiast who cheered for the Boston Red Sox, New York Giants and local minor league teams. He also loved cars and roller skating, and was a proud fourth-generation member of the Ostby family. In 1968, he built a log cabin on Ragged Lake in the Adirondacks, a family retreat that remains beloved to this day. He is survived by his wife Karen Guangling; children April, Scott, Allison and Trent Anthony; and eight grandchildren.

1958

Edward L. Reboul, 84, a longtime resident of Winchester, Massachusetts, died June 8, 2024. A devoted husband, father and brother, Reboul will be remembered for his warmth and deep love for his family. He is survived by his wife Laura K. Reboul, and their daughter Kathryn Adele Reboul. He is also survived by his brother John W. Reboul ’55, and his wife Josee, as well as several cousins, nieces including Alexandra Reboul ’01 and nephews.

1959

Charles Dilks, 83, of Philadelphia, died peacefully at home on December 28, 2024. Born November 28, 1941, in Chestnut Hill, he graduated from Chestnut Hill Academy and Westminster School in 1959. He earned his degree in American studies from Yale University in 1963, where he sang in the Yale Glee Club. He later served as a U.S. Navy lieutenant, navigating destroyers in the Mediterranean and Persian Gulf. Dilks spent over 30 years with the University City Science Center, helping establish it as a major urban research hub. He rose to executive vice president and helped found the Ben Franklin Technology Center and the Kyoto Research Park.

In 2003, he launched Dilks Consulting, advising innovation centers nationwide. He served as president of the Association of University Related Research Parks and received its Career Achievement Award. Passionate about conservation, he served on many nonprofit boards in the Philadelphia area. An avid outdoorsman, sailor and traveler, Dilks was known for pairing adventures with family and work trips. Dilks was predeceased by his brother Peter Dilks ’63. He is survived by his wife of 56 years, Gene; children Christina, Charles Jr. and Mark; five grandchildren; sister Anne; nephew Nicholas Dilks ’92; niece Lissa O’Sullivan ’96; great-nephew Peter Dilks ’27; and great-niece Margaret Dilks ’24

Graham D. Gund ’59, a visionary architect, generous philanthropist and cherished alumnus of Westminster School, died June 6, 2025, at the age of 84, leaving behind a profound legacy of creativity, generosity and architectural excellence. He is survived by his wife Ann and their son, Graydon.

As Westminster’s campus master planner, Gund brought extraordinary vision to the reimagining of the physical campus. His thoughtful design of spaces for learning, gathering and performing continues to foster community in the daily lives of students and faculty.

A native of Cleveland, Gund was born on October 28, 1940, to George and Jessica Gund. He graduated from Westminster in 1959 before continuing his studies at Kenyon College, the Rhode Island School of Design, and the Harvard Graduate School of Design, where he earned master’s degrees in architecture and urban design. Throughout his life and career, he remained deeply connected to the educational institutions that shaped him, including Westminster.

Gund was the founder and president of GUND Partnership, a nationally acclaimed architectural firm based in Cambridge, Massachusetts. Over a career spanning more than five decades, he earned more than 130 awards for architectural excellence and designed a remarkable array of museums, university buildings, historic redevelopments, and cultural landmarks across the United States.

His architectural legacy at Westminster began in 1986, when he was invited by Don Werner to reimagine the plans for the Werner Centennial Center. Recognizing the importance of architectural harmony, he proposed a new location and design that honored the school’s traditional aesthetic. The completion of the Center in 1989 marked the beginning of his broader role as Westminster’s campus master planner.

Gund developed a vision for a more cohesive, pedestrian-friendly campus anchored in three distinct commons: residential, academic and athletic. His plan emphasized open green spaces, architectural continuity and a deeper integration with the natural landscape of Williams Hill. His design work for the Armour Academic Center and Armstrong Dining Hall, completed in 2009 and 2017, respectively, remains a lasting testament to his love for his alma mater. Gund shared his vision for the campus during the Flock Reunion last June. (Scan the QR code below to watch his presentation.)

Beyond architecture, Gund also helped shape Westminster’s arts program. In 1991, members of the Gund family established the Graham Gund ’59 Visiting Artist Series in honor of his 50th birthday. The fund supports visits from outstanding artists who enrich students’ understanding and appreciation of the performing arts. These visiting artists perform in the Werner Centennial Theater — fittingly, a space Gund himself designed.

Gund’s life was an example of how creative vision, paired with a generous heart, can leave a lasting imprint on communities, institutions and generations to come. We extend our heartfelt condolences to the entire Gund family, including his surviving siblings, Agnes, Geoffrey, Gordon and Louise, and his cousin Edward Edwards ’76. He will be remembered by the Westminster community with much warmth, admiration and gratitude.

Scan to view the video from his presentation at the Flock Reunion.

1965

Anthony Willard, 79, of Johns Island, South Carolina, died March 29, 2025, surrounded by family. Born December 19, 1945, in New Haven, Connecticut, he was one of five children and grew up in a close church community, where his father served as minister. He graduated from Westminster School, Westminster College and earned a master’s from the Thunderbird School of Global Management. At Thunderbird, he met his wife Dorothy. They shared 51 years together, with chapters abroad in Indonesia, Sydney and Tokyo, and later in New Jersey, Michigan and South Carolina. Willard was known for his warmth, curiosity and generosity. He loved photography, storytelling, tennis, golf and travel, and lived as a faithful servant to God and loyal friend to many. He is survived by his wife Dorothy; children Scott, Weston and Amanda; and eight grandchildren. He is also survived by his brother Sherwood Willard ’59; nephew David Penegar ’86; niece Victoria Willard ’87; and great-nephew Simon Stambaugh ’26. He was predeceased by his brother Lawson Willard ’52.

1976

Douglas James Crawford, 66, died May 4, 2024. He was raised in Rowayton, Connecticut, and Watch Hill, Rhode Island, and graduated from The Brooks School, Westminster School and the University of Rhode Island. He dedicated his life to the sea, serving in the Merchant Marine aboard tugboats and barges along the Atlantic and Pacific coasts, Gulf of Mexico, Mississippi River, and routes to South America. At the time of his passing, he was preparing to begin teaching at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Maryland.

He served on the boards of the Watch Hill Yacht Club and Watch Hill Lighthouse Keepers Association, contributing to preservation efforts and mentoring young mariners.

Known for his humor, generosity and love of the water, Crawford was happiest at sea and cherished time with family. For more than 25 years, he organized “Men’s Night Out,” fostering connection and camaraderie ashore. He is survived by his wife of 32 years, Gillian Moore Crawford; daughters Lydia and Meghan Crawford; and sisters Kristin Edwards and Sandison Dion.

Kirby Shyer, 67, died November 1, 2024, after a long illness. Born October 11, 1957, in New York City and raised in Larchmont, New York, Shyer was known at Westminster for his creativity, humor and enduring friendships. He was a talented amateur filmmaker and a loyal classmate.

A graduate of St. Lawrence University and member of Phi Kappa Sigma, Shyer later founded Zip City Brewing Company in 1991. His brewpub helped revitalize New York City’s Flatiron and Union Square neighborhoods and was an early leader in the craft beer movement. He also introduced Stella Artois to the U.S. market and was knighted by the Belgian Brewers Guild. Shyer was known for his good nature, love of music — especially Lou Reed — and technological curiosity. He was a devoted fan of Boston terriers, especially his beloved dog Indie. He worked as a brand ambassador for Manhattan Beer Distributors and was a fixture in the brewing world. He is survived by his wife of 30 years, Jennifer Brown Shyer; children Griffin and Grace; mother Marlene Fanta Shyer; sister Alison; brother Christopher; father-in-law Robert Brown; and several nieces and nephews.

1977

William T. Graham Jr., 65, of WinstonSalem, North Carolina, died June 16, 2024, after a brief battle with cancer. Born Janunary 15, 1959, in Evanston, Illinois, he grew up in North Carolina and attended Summit School and Forsyth Country Day School before graduating from Westminster School. He earned his undergraduate degree from Duke University and his law degree from Western Michigan University Cooley

Law School. Graham began his career in private legal practice and was elected District Court judge in 1996, serving for over 20 years. He was known for his fairness, empathy and commitment to justice. A lifelong traveler, Graham visited 109 countries and was always planning his next trip. When asked his favorite destination, he would simply reply, “The next one.” He is survived by his wife Cynthia “Cinny” Strickland Graham; his sister Ashton Cannon Graham; and his father William T. Graham Sr.

Michael B. McLaughlin, 65, of Bluffton, South Carolina, died June 29, 2024, after a brief battle with pancreatic cancer. Born February 14, 1959, in Hartford, Connecticut, he graduated from Westminster School in 1977 and earned a degree in economics and English from Bucknell University in 1981. McLaughlin began his career at Irving Trust Company in New York and went on to become the youngest named partner at Lord, Abbett & Co. He later worked in investment management with SEI Investments, Gerstein Fisher & Associates, NFP Advisor Services and Dimensional Fund Advisors. He retired to Bluffton in 2021. He was known for his integrity, warmth and ability to build lasting relationships. Outside work, he enjoyed fly fishing, golf, classic rock, cooking and hosting family and friends. A former athlete and Boston sports fan, he was affectionately nicknamed “Stickman” on the basketball court. He is survived by his wife of 36 years, Susan McLaughlin; sons Andrew and Thomas; two granddaughters; and his brother Stephen McLaughlin ’74

1978

Barton Russell Payne, 65, died January 1, 2025, just days before his 66th birthday. Born January 6, 1959, in Kansas City, Missouri, he moved to Texas in 1962 and proudly called it home. He attended Westchester High School in Houston before graduating cum laude from Westminster School in 1978. Payne studied at the University of

Texas at Austin and later earned a degree in business administration with a focus in accounting from the University of Houston. A licensed CPA, he held finance roles at Kenneth Leventhal & Company, Ernst and Young LLP, and served as controller at companies including US Homes, Sam Houston Race Park and Blohm and Voss. A devoted father, grandfather, son, brother and friend, Payne was known for his warmth, wit and dedication to family. He is survived by his son Kyle Payne; his stepdaughter Courtney Ransom; his mother Muriel Payne; his sister Dedra Payne Coffee; a grandson and several nieces and nephews.

1979

Christian Scott Miller, 64, of Darien, Connecticut, died peacefully at home on August 24, 2024, surrounded by his family. Born August 6, 1960, in New York City, he was raised in Darien and graduated from Westminster School and the University of Vermont in 1983. At Westminster, Miller discovered his love for music. He formed the band Prism and continued to play guitar throughout his life. He was also a painter, athlete and nature enthusiast. His abstract works are displayed in homes and businesses worldwide, and he co-authored “Code Burgundy: The Long Escape,” a World War II memoir. Miller enjoyed skiing in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, sailing on Long Island Sound, New York, and time in East Dorset, Vermont. He cherished family adventures and had planned to retire in Charleston, South Carolina. He is survived by his wife of 40 years, Lynne; children Caroline Gahl, Craig, Cameron and Corey; and three grandsons. He is also survived by his parents, Scott and Elinor Miller; sister Sarah C. Haun ’81; and two nephews.

1986

Calvert “Larry” Green IV died February 9, 2025, after a courageous three-year battle with glioblastoma. He was 56. Born February 26, 1968, in Waterbury, Connecticut, he grew up in Canton and graduated from Westminster School in 1986. He earned a Bachelor of Science in business administration from the University of Vermont in 1991 and became a Chartered Financial Analyst in 1997. In 1994, he married his high school sweetheart, Maria Paleologos. They raised their family in Norwalk and later Farmington, where Green became a dedicated husband, father and community member. He was passionate about skydiving, hot chili peppers — famous for his homemade sauces — and music, especially the Grateful Dead and Led Zeppelin. A fierce competitor, he excelled in mogul skiing, golf, paddle tennis and darts. He was a respected coach in Farmington Youth Baseball, inspiring players with positivity and vision. In 2013, he founded SmartMarketData, creating a widely adopted financial dataset after teaching himself to code — embodying his do-it-yourself spirit and drive. He is survived by his wife Maria; children Cal, Ben and Anna; parents Cal Green III and Jane and Jim Bransfield; and mother-in-law Dorothy Paleologos.

Former Faculty

Reverend Richard Miller, beloved Westminster faculty member from 1967 to 2000, passed away at the age of 83. A graduate of Union Theological Seminary, Rev. Miller joined Westminster in 1967 and served the school with distinction for over three decades. He held numerous leadership roles, including assistant head of school, dean of faculty, and faculty advisor to the John Hay Society. In the classroom, Rev. Miller taught history and ethics, and on the fields, he coached cross country and track. His deep care for students and colleagues, combined with his integrity and wisdom, made a lasting impression on the Westminster community. To honor his legacy, the Richard Miller Invitational cross-country meet and the Miller Faculty Enrichment Fund were established in 2000, recognizing the impact both Rev. Miller and his wife Linda had on faculty life and professional growth. Known for his warmth, guidance and steady presence on

Williams Hill, Rev. Miller was described by colleagues as “the consummate school man” and “a kind and good man who cared deeply about students and colleagues.” In his 2024 Commencement Address, former faculty member Scott Stevens cited Rev. Miller’s enduring wisdom to new faculty: “Most kids, on most days, are doing the best they can do.” A devoted mentor and enthusiastic singer, Rev. Miller was a mainstay of the faculty choir and a source of support for many beginning their careers in education. A memorial service took place in Andrews Memorial Chapel on April 11, 2025. He is survived by his wife Linda, a fellow faculty member from 1980 to 2000; their children Heidi Miller ’86 and Greg Miller ’89; and generations of alumni and faculty whose lives he shaped through quiet service and steadfast care.

Arlene Stein Buckey, 85, of Bloomfield, Connecticut, died peacefully January 9, 2025. Born March 24, 1939, in New York City, she was raised in Kingston and Valhalla, New York. She attended White Plains High School and Centenary College in New Jersey, where she met her husband, John Malcolm Buckey. They married in 1959 and raised a family while living in several East Coast cities before settling in West Simsbury, Connecticut, for 28 years. In Simsbury, Buckey worked as the librarian at Tootin’ Hills Elementary School and from 1982 until her retirement in 1990, she served as associate director of admissions and director of financial aid at Westminster School. The Ganzenmuller-Buckey Award, which is given annually to the student who contributed the most to Admissions at Westminster School, was co-named in her honor. She also volunteered on boards for the Simsbury Public Library, Simsbury Land Trust and Garden Club. Known for her warmth, creativity and joyful spirit, Buckey touched many lives with her kindness and generosity. She is survived by her husband of 66 years, John; children Jill, Peter Buckey ’81 and Susan Buckey ’85; and seven grandchildren.