MIDDLEBURY — Charles “Charlie” “Honey Bee”) Francis Whitman, age 92, passed away peacefully on Monday, Dec. 14, 2021, at Queen City Nursing and Rehabilitation in Burlington.

Charlie was born in Proctor on Sept. 16, 1929, to Archie and Nellie (Ballirgeou) Whitman. He grew up in Middlebury, where he attended St. Mary’s School. Following his education, he enlisted in the United States Navy in 1947 and served for two years, after which he served in the United States Army in Panama for another two years. Upon completion of his military service, Charlie returned to Middlebury and worked as a beekeeper at Champlain Valley Apiaries for over 40 years. He enjoyed hunting, fishing and trapping. He loved the great outdoors and bird hunting with his Brittany Spaniels.

He is survived by many nieces and nephews, including his caregivers, Gary (Donna) Whitman and Robin (Debbie) Whitman, both of Ripton, and  two sisters, Cecilia Barrows of Bridport and Ruth Conway of North Carolina. He was predeceased by a sister, Dorothy Whitman, and three brothers, Raymond Whitman, William Whitman and Richard Whitman.

The family wishes to express their gratitude for special friends who looked out for Charlie, especially Joe Cyr, Bobby Cyr, Chaz Mraz, and Dr. James (Chip) and Nancy Malcolm.

The graveside committal service and burial, with Military Honors, will take place at a later date in Cook Cemetery in Ripton.

Memorial gifts in lieu of flowers may be made to Vermont Beekeepers Association.

Arrangements are under the direction of the Miller & Ketcham Funeral Home in Brandon.◊