Donald E. Mears Sr.

BENNINGTON — Donald E. Mears Sr., 68, died Sunday, Dec. 9, 2012, at his home.

He was born Dec. 25, 1943, in Bennington, the son of Donald H. Mears Sr. and Anna (Sweet) Mears.

He received his education in the Bennington schools.

He had been employed at various factories in the Bennington area for many years.

An avid outdoorsman, he especially enjoyed hunting, fishing, camping, archery, traveling and vacations.

Survivors include his wife, Debbie (King) Mears of Bennington; a daughter, Casey Mears of Bennington; two sons, Travis Mears of Bennington, and Todd Mears of New Hampshire; three step-children, Erin King and Andrew King, both of Arlington, and Michael King of Sunderland; six grandchildren; two sisters, Marie Maynard and Helen Hilchey, both of Bennington; two brothers, James E. Mears Sr. of Berlin, N.Y., and Roger Mears of Rutland; and several aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins.

He was predeceased by a brother, Stephen Mears.

The funeral will be held at St. Peter’s Episcopal Church on Wednesday, Dec. 12, 2012, at 11 a.m. where the Burial Office with Holy Eucharist will be offered by the Rev. Justin Lanier, rector.

Burial will take place in the family lot in Hindsillville Cemetery.

Friends called Tuesday at the Mahar & Son Funeral Home.

Memorial contributions may be made to either the Southwestern Vermont Regional Cancer Center or the Neuropathy Association through the office of the Mahar & Son Funeral Home, 628 Main St., Bennington, VT 05201.

Guest book condolences may be made at www.maharandsonfuneralhome.net.