Harland J. Van Ness

The family of Harland J. VanNess, formerly of 16 Jones Hill Road, Williamsville, VT announce his passing.

Harland passed away peacefully on Thursday, June 1, 2023, at Vernon Green Nursing Home where he had lived since August 5, 2019.

Harland was born January 26, 1936 in West Townshend, Vermont and was the son of Walter and Almira (Joy) VanNess.

Harland was a hard worker, he started working on a large chicken farm at the age of 13 years old. He went on to perform a variety of jobs including mechanic work, vending machine maintenance and repairs for Trico Venders, delivery driver for Merrill Gas Company, janitor at Wardsboro school and could be found mowing lawns and cemeteries in the summer months.

Harland enjoyed hunting, fishing and boating, he was an avid water skier and from late spring to late summer he and his family could be found on the water, Lake Harriman Reservoir and Lake Seymour were two of his favorite places to go.

Harland loved his family always asking about each and every one he held dear, how they were and what they were doing; he would start at the oldest and go down through the family. Harland cared about his nurses and nursing aides, he took the time to find out about them, where they lived, their hobbies, he even knew what days they had off.

Harland is survived by, and will be lovingly remembered by, his son, Donald of Athens and his daughter, Deborah of Brattleboro, his sisters Beverly Coughlin of West Townshend and Shirley Twitchell of South Londonderry. Harland leaves behind 6 grandchildren and 10 great- grandchildren and nieces and nephews.

Harland was pre-deceased by his parents Walter and Almira, his wife Marilyn (Bryant), and his brother, Philip.

A graveside service will take place on August 5, 2023 at 11AM in the Williamsville Cemetery, with a celebration of life (potluck/memories to share) taking place from 12-3PM at the Newbrook Fire Department in Newfane, VT.

The Cremation Society of New Hampshire has been entrusted with arrangements. To view an online tribute, leave a message of condolence or for more information please visit www.csnh.com.