James Atwood
James Atwood

Hartland, Vt. — James Anthony Atwood, 68, died Wednesday afternoon, April 5, 2017, at his home surrounded by his family and friends. He was born Nov. 22, 1948, in Hanover, N.H., the son of Francis S. and Gertrude H. (Soule) Atwood. He grew up in Taftsville, Vt., and graduated from Woodstock High School. Jim started at the early age of fifteen working in carpentry and after high school worked as a carpenter for Frizzells Construction for over thirty years. Later as a Master Carpenter he worked for himself throughout the Twin States. He married Mary Ann Leroux in 1986 and they lived most of their married lives in Hartland. Jim was forced to retire following a disability. 

Jim’s favorite pastime was Ox Pulling. He and Mary traveled around to many of the area fairs competing with his team of oxen, his most favorite fair being the Tunbridge’s World Fair in Tunbridge, Vt.  He was a long-time member of the Ox Pulling Association of Vermont. 

He is survived by his wife, Mary Ann Atwood; two sons, Joel Atwood of Utah, and Jedediah Rose of Hartford, Vt.; two daughters, Jennifer Crandal of Enfield, N.H. and Roxane Rose of Hartland; 7 grandchildren; a brother, Charles Atwood of Mexico; two sisters, Clara Atwood of North Carolina, and Carol Atwood of Woodstock, as well as many nieces and nephews.

A celebration of his life will be held later this summer.

Condolences may be made to Jim’s family at an online guest book at www.knightfuneralhomes.com

The Knight Funeral Home in Windsor, Vt., has been entrusted with arrangements.