ALBERT ROY “ALPINE” BINGHAM III

MIDDLEBURY — Albert Roy “Alpine” Bingham III was born Nov. 2, 1950, in Burlington, Vt. He died from an aggressive cancer in the 75th year of his life on June 6, 2026, at Suncoast Hospice Care in Pinellas Park, Fla.

Alpine graduated from MUHS, where members of the boy’s ski team nick-named him “Alpine Albee,” a moniker that stuck for life. He then attended Norwich University and the University of Vermont.

A popular Middlebury resident, Alpine was known to all he met as a witty, intelligent, and creative individual who was a brilliant conversationalist. Growing up in the 50s and 60s steeped Alpine in politics, leading to a keen interest in town affairs, and a run for selectman.

Alpine had a love for farming, which was nurtured at an early age by his grandfather and father. He had a knack for showmanship, leading to dozens of ribbons and rosettes throughout his 4-H years. He was especially fond of Suzybelle, a beautiful Jersey cow.

An accomplished downhill skier, Alpine was a ski instructor at the Middlebury College Snow Bowl for many seasons. He was gifted with the ability to help even the youngest of skiers to overcome their fears.

Dozens of friends will recall long summer evenings filled with epic volleyball games on the front lawn of the “Bingham Ranch” on Creek Road, the place where he grew up, and where his 101-year-old mother lives to this day. Many will recall the boisterous mid-summer parties he threw, which were called the “Bing Bong Bash,” featuring live bands on the front porch.

His farming operations included the raising of Rose Veal, which was wholesaled at local restaurants. Chef Woody Danforth, owner/chef of the popular Woody’s Restaurant said Alpine’s veal was “the best” he’d ever prepared.

Alpine also raised dairy replacement heifers for local farms, and later milked cows at the Bingham Ranch. After shipping milk for several years, Alpine moved on to cheddar cheese making, producing a sharp cheddar that was widely sought-after.

Ever the entrepreneur, Alpine had several business ventures, which included planning for a gasohol plant (scotched by the end of the 1970’s oil embargo), and a successful rubbish collection business that was later sold. A skilled innovator, Alpine obtained a federal license and created a Bloody Mary inspired liquor, “Killer Tomato,” that was a hit at Angela’s Restaurant. Later, Alpine took an interest in metal work, creating fine furniture from wrought iron.

Sadly, Alpine was dogged throughout his life by mental health issues, which culminated in his being unhoused, and unprotected by a society that seemingly has few resources for the compassionate care of people who suffer. This led to irrational behaviors, including hitchhiking to Florida several years ago, where he was unable to escape from his illness.

He is survived by his mother, Marilyn W. Bingham, and brothers Michael, Eric, Craig (Beth Diamond), his Aunt Joan Bingham, three nieces, and several cousins.

Alpine was predeceased by his father Albert Roy Bingham Jr., his brother Stephen, sisters Penny and Susan, and his beloved grandparents.

A Memorial Service will be announced at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The American Cancer Society, or the National Alliance on Mental Illness. Condolences and remembrances may be mailed to Marilyn W. Bingham, Post Office Box 2, Middlebury, Vermont 05753. ◊