NORTH FERRISBURGH — Ernest L. Benoit, 74, of North Ferrisburgh, passed away Tuesday, June 2, 2020, unexpectedly, at home.
Ernest was born Dec. 28, 1945, at home on the family farm in North Ferrisburgh. He was the son of Leo and Laurette (Brault) Benoit. After completing 8th Grade Ernest stayed home to work on the family farm. In 1963 he met the love of his life, Marie (Gordon) while they worked at Kennedy Brothers together. Ernest and Marie were married on Jan. 9, 1965. He then joined the Vermont Army National Guard, where he served from 1965-1970. The couple moved home to the family farm in North Ferrisburgh in 1969, where Ernest and Marie resided for 54 years before Marie’s death in 2019.
After 42 years of hard work and dedication as a custodian at Vergennes Union High School he recently retired. Ernest’s passions were being a mechanic in his garage at home alongside his son Dennis, and bragging about his grandchildren and great-grandchildren every chance he could. He loved showing off his old trucks and his 1956 Chevy Belair. He enjoyed going to classic car shows with his family and friends, and supporting his grandkids at their sporting events. He enjoyed dancing, bowling and spending time with his dogs.
Ernest is survived by his children Dennis J. Benoit and partner Peggy of Addison, Shawn Benoit and partner Gina of Milton, and Tina (Benoit) Lothian and husband David of Franklin; his grandchildren Maria Benoit and partner Chris, Kristina Benoit, Dylan Lothian and wife Erin, Caleb Lothian and Logan Benoit; his great-grandsons Collin and Cyrus Clair; his sister Jeannette Lucier and husband John of North Ferrisburgh; several brother- and sister-in-laws; and special nieces and nephews. Ernest was predeceased by his parents Leo and Laurette Benoit, his brothers Ferdinand, Armand and Richard, and sister Yvette, many amazing in-laws, and his beloved grandson Derick.
Visiting hours for family and friends, will be held on Thursday, June 11, from 5-8 p.m. at Brown-McClay Funeral home in Vergennes. Funeral services will be held on Saturday, June 13, at 11 a.m. at Brown-McClay Funeral Home. The burial will be immediately following the funeral at the North Ferrisburgh Cemetery for immediate family members only. Masks will be required for all services. In Lieu of flowers contributions may be made to: The Derick Leroy Benoit Scholarship Fund, at VUHS — Attn: Betsy Sullivan, 50 Monkton Rd., Vergennes, VT 05491.◊