Sidney Achilles

Sidney Norman Achilles, age 76, formerly of Rocky Ridge in St. Johnsbury, passed away October 11, 2017, at the same family homestead where he was born on December 21, 1940.

Sidney was the son of the late Carlton and Olive (Gray) Achilles, grew up in Waterford and graduated from St. J Trade School.  He went on to the University of Vermont where he received a Bachelors of Science in Civil Engineering, and for 40 years worked for the State of Vermont Agency of Transportation as a Civil and Structural Engineer. He was a member of the “Snowshoe Club” for over 40 years, getting together each winter Sunday with local friends and members to enjoy the outdoors.  He loved taking his dogs everywhere, from the Farmer’s Market to out for ice cream in St. Johnsbury, which would always start up a conversation, as Sid loved talking to people.  In his retirement he designed and built his dream cabin starting in 2005 and it has always been a work in progress.  He was very particular and wanted things “just so” from using trees on the land to the proper number of nails for the trusses, since this was his pride and joy.  Sid enjoyed driving his tractor and other “toys” and absolutely loved spending time with his grandchildren.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 50 years, Marjorie (Ailes) Achilles, 2 sons: Rob and wife, Cheryl, Achilles of Colchester, Chris and wife, Katrina, of Milton, VT, his daughter: Katherine Achilles and husband, Kevin Stierhoff, of Santa Cruz, CA, 2 sisters: Edna McClellan of Winter Park, FL and Sally Hoyt of Winter Springs, FL, a sister-in-law: Marcella Achilles, of Daytona, FL, and 4 grandchildren: Hannah & Natalie Achilles, Emma Stierhoff, and Ila Achilles.  He was predeceased by a brother: David Achilles in 2016.

Friends may call on the family from 2-4PM on Saturday, October 14, 2017, at the Cabin that he built to visit and share stories. Services are private.