On Saturday, May 2nd the chorus of the wood frogs was accompanied by the Hanaford’s Fife and Drum Corps as the community celebrated the life of Bill Bevans at NorthWoods. A granite bench built by Senator John Rodgers sits under a transplanted Sugar Maple tree, creating a new space for reflection and inspiration for visitors at NorthWoods. Bill was and is a champion for the human and natural communities of NorthWoods, and all the friends, food, and sunshine that graced the celebration show that Bill’s legacy will be long-lasting.

Bill Bevans 1935-2014

The family of James William Bevans Jr., known as Bill, has gathered together to celebrate the life of their brother and father who died from cancer at Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center on November 10, 2014.

Mr. Bevans’ wife and their children — Kelley, Heather, and Michael Bevans — have been joined by his brother John Patrick Bevans and sisters, Kathobit-Bevansryn Mullervy and Margaret Jerger, for support and to share loving and happy memories.

Mr. Bevans was born on December 18, 1935. He and his wife, Judy, met at Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore, Maryland, where he received a Bachelor of Arts degree in English and Elizabethan drama. His love for entertaining and theater led to a long career in helping people work together to achieve common goals.

He began his career in human resources while living in Baltimore, and later culminated 26 years as vice-president of organization development with General Foods USA.

When Mr. and Mrs. Bevans moved to Vermont, Mr. Bevans continued his career, working for organizations as a consultant and facilitator. He was a member of the OD Network.

He loved his home and his small conference facility, Coach Works Farm, and his family of pets — especially Tess, his Yorkshire terrier — the outdoors, and he enjoyed the gifts of the Vermont landscape. Cross-country skiing, hiking, and working to conserve our forests and water became his passion. He loved music, whether it was classical, jazz, or bluegrass.

He was an active member of Hannaford’s Volunteer Fyfe and Drum Corps.

He served on the board of the NorthWoods Stewardship Center, both as a member and president. Being part of an organization that presented pathways for everyone, children and adults, exploring our natural heritage was one of his most meaningful experiences.

He is deeply loved and was ever deeply loving, laughing, and encouraging to everyone he met.

Memorial contributions in his memory may be made to the Northwood Stewardship Center, P.O. Box 220, East Charleston, Vermont 05833.