Chandler “Denny” Hewitt, 76, died surrounded by his family on Monday, May 5 at the Jack Byrnes Center in Lebanon, N.H.
Denny was born on Feb. 6, 1949 in Hanover, N.H., the son of Chandler M. and Dorothy H. (Potter) Hewitt. He graduated from Woodstock Union High School in 1967 and joined the Navy serving as a Seabee in the Naval Mobile Construction Battalion (NMCB) 40, a group that would remain a large part of his life. He served in the Vietnam War in 1968-1969. In May 1971 he sailed to Diego Garcia (Indian Ocean) and took part in building the original 3500 airstrip, which later was extended; it is still today a strategic U.S. military base. He finished his service duty in 1972 and returned home to work for a number of trucking companies doing mostly long-haul trucking. The most recent company he worked for was Roy Ingraham Trucking, he remained close friends to the owners Roy and Kay
Denny’s roots were grounded in the Pomfret and East Barnard area. He married Deborah VanAlstyne on Oct. 3, 1970 in the East Barnard Church and made their home in North Pomfret. He was an avid hunter, as well as being a well-known traveling butcher. He enjoyed riding his motorcycle and took enormous pride in his collection of antique tractors that could be seen in many local parades, also being driven by his son and father-in-law. He and Deb enjoyed traveling and visiting with friends, especially attending many gatherings of the NMCB 40 families. Denny could be seen spending time on the beach in his blue jeans on a warm day. His favorite holiday without a doubt was deer season.
Denny is survived by his wife of 54 years, Deborah, his daughter Karen Hewitt Osnoe (Lee), his son David Hewitt; five grandchildren, Nikki, Hayden, Asher, Joleigh, and Avery, his siblings; Pamela (Bill) Barrows, Sandra Birajiclian and Miller (Carlene) Hewitt; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins. In addition to his parents, he is predeceased by a son Dennis Hewitt, a brother Frank Hewitt, and a brother-in-law Michael Birajiclian.
A celebration of life will take place to all that wish to pay their respects on Saturday, May 24, from noon to 2 p.m. at the Pomfret Town Hall. A private family burial service will take place in the Hewittville Cemetery after.
In lieu of flowers, those wishing to pay their respects may make memorial donations to: American Legion Post 24 – PO. box 365 – Woodstock, Vt. 0509.
An online guestbook can be found at cabotfh.com.
