Erwin Homer Stunkel68, of North Thetford, died peacefully at home on Friday October 19, 2012, after battling liposarcoma, an aggressive cancer, since December of 2011. Erwin was born on July 19, 1944 in Baltimore, Maryland. He was raised by his father, Homer Milton Stunkel, and his mother, Virginia Pearson Stunkel (both deceased) in Washington, DC.

Erwin studied psychology and criminology at the University of Maryland and obtained a doctoral degree in child clinical psychology at Emory University. In 1976, Erwin relocated Vermont and provided psychological services through Northeast Kingdom Mental Health and Orange County Mental Health, and for the courts of Vermont. In 1983, he helped to establish Upper Valley Associates in Psychology in Education in East Thetford. Erwin was well known in the area as an expert in learning disabilities and psychological testing, and appreciated for his thoughtful and comprehensive evaluations. He was a strong and vocal advocate for the rights of individuals with disabilities and mental illness, and never hesitated to speak out for justice.

Erwin was a gentle, kind, generous, and caring individual, as a teacher, in his work, and in his personal life. He was a steadfast son, friend, neighbor, husband, and father. Erwin loved Vermont, often commenting that he was lucky to live in such a beautiful place. He was committed to respecting the environment, was an organic gardener, and enjoyed exploring nature though hiking, sailing, canoeing, camping and cross-country skiing. He was an accomplished tennis player in his younger years. Labrador Retrievers were his companions, including Max, who provided him with much needed comfort during his illness.

Erwin is survived by his wife Jesse Ann White, his son Eric Roberts Stunkel, and his relatives in Maryland.

The family would like to express thanks to the individuals at Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center, Norris Cotton Cancer Center, and Dana Farber Cancer Institute who provided excellent care, and to Visiting Nurse and Hospice of VT and NH, and neighbors and friends, for support during Erwin's final days at home.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly suggests a donation in Erwin's name to the above-mentioned medical centers, the Nature Conservancy, the Salvation Army, the Vermont Food Bank, or to the Special Olympics.

A memorial service will be held at the United Church of Thetford in North Thetford, Vermont at 1:00 PM on November 3, 2012. Arrangements are under the direction of Rand Wilson Funeral Home.