William Edward Birch

READSBORO- William Edward Birch, 72, died unexpectedly on Wednesday, February 10, at his home.
Mr. Birch was born on November 23, 1948, the son of Clinton and Barbara Ellen (Phelps) Birch Sr.  He attended local schools and went on to attend Champlain College, acquiring a degree in computer engineering.  He worked as a computer programmer at Sprague Electric, afterward opening a carpentry business with his son Benjamin.  He also served in the US Army during the Vietnam era and was a member of the American Legion Post 66 and the National Rifle Association.
Mr. Birch, also known as Bill, was an avid hunter and fisherman who considered the woods and the water his church.  Teaching kids how to hunt and fish was his passion.  It was important for him to pass on the traditions for the generations to come.  His hunting beagles, Raider and Spade, were a big part of his life, and he loved going hunting with his crew.  “Captain Bill” had a boat slip at Lake Champlain for many years and loved fishing and being with his family and friends on the water.  He also ran fishing charters and led hunting guides to teach others the sport.  
He lived his entire life in the town of Readsboro and loved the community.  His kind and giving heart was felt by so many people and he will be greatly missed.
He leaves his longtime companion, Deborah Schick; his mother, Barbara Ellen Birch, of Readsboro; his daughter, Abigail Birch and her partner Mark Long; and grandchildren Nicholas Birch and Casey Pillsbury. He also leaves his sister Bonnie Nadeau and her husband James; sister Sharon Bird; brother Gary Birch and wife Charlotte; sister Nancy Baker and husband Douglas; sister Martha Mason and husband Richard; sister Sue Lawrence and husband Clive; sister Diane Williams; brother Clinton Birch Jr. and wife Susan; and many nieces and nephews.  He also leaves his other grandchildren Evan and Abby, Taylor, Noah, Baylee, Jayden, and Livy.  He was preceded in death by his son Benjamin Birch, his father Clinton Birch Sr., and his brother-in-law Steven Bird.
At the request of the family there will be no services at this time. There will be a celebration of life in the spring.
Flynn & Dagnoli Funeral Homes, North Adams, MA, has been entrusted with arrangements.  In lieu of flowers send donations to the American Legion Post 66, PO Box 217, Readsboro, VT 05350, or the First Baptist Church, PO Box 333, Readsboro, VT 05350.