Leo M. Valliere Rites

BARRE CITY — A Mass of Christian Burial was concelebrated on Friday, June 22, 2012, at 11 a.m. in St. Monica Catholic Church in Barre for Leo M. Valliere, 71, of Delmont Avenue, who passed away on June 18, 2012, at his home.

The principal celebrant was Rev. Leopold J. Bilodeau, pastor of the church (classmate and family friend) assisted by Rev. Emmanuel I. Ajanma, parochial vicar, Rev. Mr. David Bisson, deacon, and Rev. Mr. Daniel L. Pudvah, deacon.

Flag carrier was Louis Graham, past commander of the American Legion, Post #10 of Barre.

Acolytes were David Toborg and Christopher Toborg.

Crucifer was Fred Letourneau.

In attendance were Gov. Peter Shumlin, former Lt. Gov. Bian Dubie, Lt. Gov. Phil Scott, Sergeant of Arms Francis Brooks and Diane Scolaro (assistant VP of Norwich University.)

Organist Rosemary Badeau accompanied vocalists Ronald Routhier and Romeo Bilodeau in the hymns, “On Eagles Wings,” “Shepherd Me, O God,” “Your Words, Lord, Are Spirit and Life,” “Ave Maria,” “Song of Farwell” and “When The Saints Come Marching In.” Special soloist, Rebeca Beall, granddaughter, sang “Amazing Grace.”

Words of remembrance were offered by Gov. Shumlin and former Lt. Gov. Dubie, Diane Scolaro, and Kimberly DePalmer, daughter, also shared memories and read a poem, “To The Living, I Am Not Gone” and Jeanne Turman, also a daughter, offered reflections. Father Bilodeau also shared memories and read a poem.

Scripture readings from the Old Testament were read by Jeanne Turman, daughter, and Kayla DePalmer, granddaughter, read scriptures from the New Testament.

Deacon Bisson read the Gospel and led the Prayer of the Faithful.

Offertory gifts were presented at the altar by grandchildren, Crystal Lang, Dustin DePalmer, Zachary De Palmer, Kayla DePalmer and Jacob Roy; and roses were presented by his great-grandchildren, Kiarah Ruby, Camden Dell, Eli DePalmer and Madelyn DePalmer.

A prayer vigil was held Thursday evening at the Pruneau-Polli Funeral Home in Barre and was led by Father Bilodeau and Deacon Pudvah.

Burial followed the Mass in Hope Cemetery in Barre. Full military honors were accorded the deceased by the military funeral detail of the Vermont National Guard of Colchester under the command of 1st. Lt. David Johnston. Buglar SSgt. Chad Jenkins sounded taps. The American flag was presented to Anne Valliere, wife of the deceased, by 1st. Lt. Johnston. Committal prayers were offered by Father Bilodeau.

Following the burial, family and friends gathered at the Barre Lodge of Elks #1535 for a time of fellowship and refreshments.

Arrangements were in the care of the Pruneau-Polli Funeral Home, 58 Summer St., Barre.