Roger Wright Layn passed away at home in Monkton on October 5, 2020 at the age of 100.
Roger was born June 5, 1920 in Starksboro, VT to Wright and Anna (Duchane) Layn. He grew up and helped run the family dairy farm in East Monkton until he enlisted for military service in 1940.
Roger served as First Lieutenant in the 91st Bomb Group of the 8th Army Air Force, as a B-17 pilot. He was awarded the Silver Star for his role in the safe return of a badly damaged airplane after a mission over Schweinfurt, Germany. He was shot down on a later mission and spent the next 15 months in a German Prisoner of War camp until his release in 1945.
After WW II, he returned to the family farm in Monkton, married Helen Burritt, raised his family and farmed for over 75 years.
Roger was a humble man of many talents and interests. He was a generous man who enjoyed spending time and creating memories with his family, friends, and neighbors. There seemed to always be someone stopping by to ask for his help or advice on a project which he gladly gave. He was always ready to lend a helping hand, to share a story, or tell a joke to anyone he met.
For over forty years, Roger dressed as Santa and visited the homes of Monkton children on Christmas Eve. Both children and adults enjoyed hours of fun at the skating parties on the creek and skiing on the hill behind his house with the rope tow that Roger built. Many children have learned about dairy farming and World War II from him through personal interviews and classroom visits to their schools.
Roger enjoyed and appreciated all things “old.” He operated his large collection of antique gasoline engines at the Addison County Fair & Field Days for over 20 years. His creation of a gasoline powered paddle wheel (known as the “Smile Maker”) which blew bubbles as it turned, was a popular display with the children visiting the Antique Equipment area at the fair.
The family would like to thank the Monkton Community, friends, and family who helped Roger celebrate his 100th birthday. He talked about it with very fond memories and was so appreciative of the time people took to drive by his house and wish him Happy Birthday.
Roger was predeceased by his wife, Helen, of 64 years; his brothers Robert, Roderic, and Royden Layn; and granddaughter Kristine Layn. He is survived by his three children and spouses Craig (Janis) Layn, Candace (Patrick) Polzella, and David (Anne) Layn; his four grandchildren Michael Layn, Bailee (Scott) Gordon, Curtis (Heather) Layn, Alex Layn; and nine great-grandchildren.
There will be private graveside service, per Roger’s request. A celebration of his life will be held at a later date. In leu of flowers, donations in Roger’s memory can be made to the Antique Equipment Area, Addison County Fair & Field Days, 1790 Field Days Rd, Vergennes, VT 05491 or the Vermont Veterans Militia Museum, 789 Vermont National Guard Road, Colchester, VT 05446. To send online condolences to his family please visit www.brownmcclayfuneralhomes.com
We are very saddened to learn of Roger’s passing. He certainly lived a long and full life. We believe he is the last of Mother and Dad’s friends..
My condolences to the Layn Family I remember visiting the Layn farm many times when I was young when Hoag farm needed Rogers help fixing something. Or the times his son helped pull our tractor out of another mud hole we were stuck in.
My best to the Layn family.
My Deepest condolences for your loss he lived a long life, David my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family
WE lost our family matriarch, but the community, the Field Days, and others to name a few have lost a legend. There is so much more that can be written and remembered about this amazing man years to come. In his own words he would say ” you sound like a politician” Rest in peace and keep a eye on the farm.
Dear Dave and Family members,
I extend my condolence to you on the passing of your father. It sounds like he lived a good life. I know being a dairy farmer is a hard life , but a good one all at the same time. He was a part of what is called ‘the greatest generation’ . The one that fought in WW-2 and saved the world. My hat is off to him. May your faith in the lord Jesus bring you peace and comfort at this time of mourning for you.
Sincerely
Andy Bessette
To The Layn family
We are so sorry for your loss our thoughts and prayers are with you
Craig, Candace and David…. I was very sorry to hear about your Father’s passing. It is wonderful to hear about his life experiences for 100 years on this earth. God has truly blessed him with his three children and your families are living proof.
My deepest condolences to your family. I have fond memories of growing up when Roger would call my Father to tell him a joke. If I answered the phone Roger would always tell me the joke first, then he would chuckle about his joke (most were funny)! He was a very kind and gentle man. My Father always said if only there were more Rogers, like him, in the world-it would be a better place. Rest in peace Roger.
On behalf of the Board of Trustees, the staff and volunteers of the National Museum of the Mighty Eighth Air Force, we would like to extend our deepest condolences for your loss. Please know the passing of your loved one is felt by all those who honor the Greatest Generation and their sacrifices.