BRUCE R. MEADER

MONKTON — We regret to announce the passing of Bruce R. Meader, aged 81, who passed away at home surrounded by his family on June 27, 2024, after a brief illness. He was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle and member of his community who will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Bruce was born in Burlington, Vt., the son of Rex W. Meader and Jessie O. Meader. He was raised on the family farm on Meader Hill in Monkton. He served in the United States Army from 1961 to 1964. Later, he joined the Vermont National Guard and worked at IBM. He fell in love at first sight with Paulette Pepin. They celebrated their 63rd wedding anniversary on June 10th of this year. Devoted to the end, his last wishes were to make sure that she would be taken care of by their family. They raised four children and more recently they have shared their home with many pets, including his beloved dog, Jimmy Mack.

A lifelong runner, Bruce proudly ran in the Boston Marathon. He also ran in the Vergennes Little City Race every year, joking that he was the first in his age group but also the only runner in his age group.

For Bruce, love of nature was central to his life. Hikes to beautiful, remote places like Abbey Pond brought him quiet joy and relaxation. Until his illness, Bruce was able to hike up Vermont trails and mountains at a blistering pace, often leaving others to catch up at the summit. This affection for the outdoors and wildlife has also been passed on to his children and grandchildren. Bruce also enjoyed beekeeping, hunting, and just chatting with friends and family on his porch and around his community. Although Bruce wasn’t openly affectionate, the people that he loved knew it.

Many will recall Bruce’s sense of humor and love of jokes. He delighted in making family, friends and coworkers and friends from IBM, the National Guard and other jobs laugh. He enjoyed pranking his wife, Paulette and this love of pranks will continue to be a family tradition. His voicemails containing his dry wit and jokes will be treasured forever.

Bruce Meader is survived by his wife, Paulette and their children Deborah Howard (and John) of Monkton, Rex Meader of Vergennes, Ann Meader of New Haven, and Nancy Lavigne (and Guy) of St. Albans; 17 grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren; his brothers Paul Meader (and Claire) of Monkton and Barry (and Diane) of Monkton; former daughter-in-law Jodi Rathe, and former son-in-law Brent Jocelyn; as well as numerous cousins, nieces, nephews and friends. Bruce was preceded in death by his brother Ralph Meader and his nephew, Caleb Meader.

A celebration of Bruce’s life will be held at the Monkton Fire Station on Aug. 11, 2024 from 1 to 3 p.m. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Bruce’s name to Homeward Bound of Addison County. ◊