HARDWICK – Wendell Russell Ainsworth, 83, of Hardwick, died Friday, Nov. 14, at the Greensboro Nursing Home with his loving family at his side.
He was born December 12, 1941, in Hardwick, the son of the late Paul E. and Arlene (Ross) Ainsworth Sr. He attended Woodbury Elementary School and graduated from Hardwick Academy in the class of 1959.
On December 3, 1960, he married his high school sweetheart, J. Ann Hodgdon, at the United Church in Hardwick. Together they raised seven children and enjoyed more than 64 years of marriage.
Throughout the years, Wendell was employed by several businesses including, Rock of Ages, Central Tire and Coca Cola, all in Barre, Barr’s Better Beverages and Grand Union, both in Hardwick. He retired at age 57 due to health problems.
Wendell was a member of the United Church of Hardwick, the Caspian Lake Lodge No. 87 F & AM Masonic Order, an active 22 year-member of the Hardwick Fire Department as well as a member of the Vermont Trappers Association. He loved spending time with his family, especially with the grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He very enthusiastically attended their sports games to cheer for each of them and their teams. He treasured his time at the family camp on East Long Pond in Woodbury. He helped to create so many good times, laughs, hunting and fishing, for all who visited including the four-legged friends. He will be fondly remembered by all who had the privilege of sharing his favorite place in the world.
Survivors include his beloved wife, J. Ann Ainsworth of Hardwick; six children, Tammi (Scott) Smith of Hardwick, Bonnie DeGoosh (Jeff Vaughan) of Walden, Annette Meservey, Rick Ainsworth, both of Hardwick, Rusty Ainsworth (Ilsa Farley) of Sanford, N.C., and Connie (Rich) Owens of Taylor, Pa.; 10 grandchildren; 15 great-grandchildren; a sister, M. Ann Brown of the Greensboro Nursing Home; nieces, nephews and cousins.
He was predeceased by a son Randy Ainsworth in April 1969, and his siblings, Paul E. Ainsworth Jr., M. Jean Mancini and Ralph Ainsworth.
To honor his request, all services will be private at the convenience of his family.
In lieu of flowers, contributions in his memory may be made to the Greensboro Nursing Home, 47 Maggie’s Pond Road, Greensboro, VT 05841.
Arrangements are in the care of Northern Vermont Funeral Service, 60 Elm Street, Hardwick. Online condolences are welcomed at northernvermontfuneralservice.com
