Vernon “Buddy” R. Bardwell Sr. 90, a long time resident of Gilsum and formerly of Bellows Falls, VT. Keene and Winchester died on Monday, March 30, 2015 at Applewood Nursing Home in Winchester. He passed peacefully while sleeping after a period of declining health.
Buddy was born the son of the late Nellie (Aikey) and Roy Bardwell on July 4, 1924 in Belchertown, Massachusetts. He was educated locally and attended schools in Gilsum and Winchester.
On October 23, 1948 he exchanged vows with Anita Bergeron at St. Bernard’s Church in Keene. They were married with family and friends in attendance. Sadly, Anita passed on March 23, 1986 after thirty seven years of marriage.
Buddy enlisted in the U.S. Navy during World War II in March1943 He served as a Machinist Mate and was honorably discharged in May of 1946. He was one of the original crew of the USS Midway CV-41. The newest and largest aircraft carrier at that time. He was also a member of the Gilsum Post 85 American Legion.
Buddy was a businessman and owner of Snow Plow Sales in Gilsum for fifty years. Prior Buddy owned Hydraulic Jack Service in Keene.
Buddy was well known race car driver in the area. He raced in New England, New York and Canada. He was a member of the New England Racing Hall of Fame and also the Claremont Speedway Hall of Fame.
Mr. Bardwell is survived by his sons and their spouses; Buddy R. Bardwell Jr. and his wife Gail of Gilsum and Gary R. Bardwell and his wife Susan of Winchester. He leaves four grandchildren, six great grandchildren, cousins, nieces, nephews, extended family and friends. Buddy is predeceased by his sister, Dorothy Horton who passed in 2008 and his long time friend Ruth Mitchelides who passed in 2006.
Calling hours will be held on Monday, April 6, 2015 from 10 to 11am, with a celebration of life service at 11am. all in the funeral chapel. Burial will take place in the family lot with military honors at St. Joseph’s Cemetery, Main St. Keene, NH. 03431. Flowers will gladly be accepted, however, the family would prefer donations be made in memory of Buddy R. Bardwell Sr. to the charity of ones choice. All services are under the care of Cheshire Family Funeral Chapel and Crematories, 44 Maple Ave. Keene, NH. 03431. www.cheshirefamilyfuneralhome.com
