Stephen J. Washer, 72, a long-time resident of Keene and formerly of Vermont died unexpectedly on Wednesday, February 20, 2019 at home with the love of family near.
Stephen was born the son of the late Beverly (Miller) and Marshall Washer on August 9, 1946 in Jeffersonville, VT. He graduated from Johnson High School in Johnson, VT. class of 1965. Stephen then went on in his studies attending Keene State College and Franklin Pierce College.
He enlisted in the United States Army during the Vietnam War where he served with the 82nd Airborne as a Pathfinder. Stephen was honorably discharged at the rank of SP-4 / E4 on January 13, 1972 after two years of devoted service to his country.
On August 6, 1972 he exchanged vows with Jayne M. Strassel at the Church of the Pilgrimage in Plymouth, MA. They were married with family and friends in attendance and have been married for forty-six years.
He was a wine, beer and soda salesman for the g. housen and company in Brattleboro for twenty years before retiring in 2004. Prior, he had worked at Donahue Beverage in beer sales, Perkins Lumber as the manager of hardware and Keene Beverage in beer sales.
Stephen enjoyed wood working, spending time with his family and friends on their pontoon boat, hiking and skiing. Stephen was very proud to have worked for the Green Mountain Club on the Long Trail Maintenance crew. He was the 129th person to have completed hiking the trail from the Massachusetts border to the Canadian border. He loved camping with his children and in later years he and Jayne enjoyed visiting many National Parks.
Mr. Washer is survived by his wife, Jayne Washer of Keene. His children; Eric H. Washer and his wife Jessica of Alamo, CA., Adam D. Washer and his wife, Laura of Keene and Cheryl A. Myhre and her husband, Jim of Glencoe, IL. Seven grandchildren; McKenzie, Madison, Claire, Nicholas and Katie Washer, Vaughn and Alaina Myhre. In addition, he leaves a niece and nephew, extended family and friends. Stephen is pre-deceased by his brother, Everett M. Washer who passed in 2012.
In keeping with Stephen’s wishes there are no calling hours or formal religious services. A celebration of his life will be held early spring. In lieu of flowers the family requests donations be made to Home Healthcare Hospice and Community Services of Keene, 312 Marlboro St. Keene, NH. 03431. All services are under the care of Cheshire Family Funeral chapel and Crematories, 44 Maple Ave. Keene, NH. 03431. WWW.cheshirefamilyfh.com
