Orwell, Garnard Gary M. Cookman 60, died Thursday evening August 13, 2015 at his home after a courageous battle with cancer. Born March 1, 1955 in Willimantic, CT the son of Garnard D. and Katherine (McConnell) Cookman. He was a graduate of Middlebury High School class of 1973 and Champlain College class of 1975. Gary was an accountant having work for VELCO for twenty years also was the owner of Cookman Accounting Services since 1975 until being passed down to his son in late 2011 He married Claire Cote August 24, 1996 at Button Bay. Gary was a member of Mt Independence Lodge # 10 F & A.M. and also Morning Sun Lodge # 5 F & A.M., the Cairo Shriners of Rutland where he was a member of the Mini Monsters and Clown Units. Gary was an avid NASCAR fan and Richard Petty fan; he was an avid collector of match box cars and H.O. Trains, loved animals and enjoyed creating the celebrity train. He is survived by his wife Claire of Orwell, children Gary W. Cookman and wife Kristen of Burlington and Stephanie Cookman of South Burlington, by his step sons, Craig Susco of Milton and Dan Susco of Mt. holly, by his grandson Alex Dickerson and his step grandchildren Alexandra, Samantha and Michael Susco and Damien McCullough. He was predeceased by his parents. A Memorial service will be held on Saturday August 22, 2015 at 10 A.M. at the First Congregational Church of Orwell, with the Rev. David Anderson officiating. Burial will follow with fraternal services at Mountain View Cemetery Orwell, a potluck reception will follow. Visiting hours will be held on Friday August 21, 2015 from 4-7 P.M. at the Sanderson-Ducharme Funeral Home, located at 117 south main Street Middlebury. In Lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to Homeward Bound Animal Shelter at 236 Boardman Street Middlebury, VT 05753 Arrangements have been entrusted to the Sanderson-Ducharme Funeral Home. Online condolences at www.sandersonfuneralservice.com