Linda Theresa Vondle, 73, of Shoreham Vt passed away peacefully on September 5th, 2023, at Helen Porter Hospice, holding her daughter's hand. She succumbed to complications from heart failure, surrounded by loved ones. Linda was known for her golden heart, kindness, and infectious laugh that could light up any room. Her generosity and dedication to others will be her lasting legacy, especially her work advocating for acceptance and inclusion of those with special needs. Linda was also a devoted supporter of the Special Olympics.

Born on April 29th, 1950, in Queens, NY, to David Vondle and Margaret (Hansen) Vondle, Linda was predeceased by her father in 1950 and her mother in 2013. She grew up on the Burgess Farm in Shoreham, Vermont, where family was central to her life. After graduating from Rice Memorial High School, Linda earned a BA in Teaching and an MA in Special Education from Castleton State College. She began her career teaching 2nd grade at Forestdale Elementary School before becoming a supervisor at The Brandon Training School, where she worked for over 15 years. During that time, she welcomed Liz Whitney, a client from the school, into her home and cared for her until Liz's passing in 1997. This relationship brought Linda tremendous joy. After leaving the Training School, Linda served as a Vermont State Guardian for over 25 years, retiring in 2018. Even in retirement, Linda continued to care for others as a shared home care provider to another cherished client, Rosie.

Linda's greatest joy came in 1986 when she adopted her daughter Tori from India. This moment was a profound and cherished milestone in her life, bringing her immense happiness and fulfillment as a mother.

Linda loved reading and traveling, often exploring the country with family and friends, with a trip to Alaska being particularly memorable. At home, she found comfort in a good book, with her devoted Lhasa Apso dog, Tess, always by her side.

Linda is survived by her beloved daughter, Victoria Vondle, and her fiancé, Clifford Torres, whom she loved like a son, both of Shoreham, VT; her Aunt Florence Gill of Cornwall, VT; Rosie Plue of Middlebury, VT; and numerous cousins of the Gill, Goss, Hedley, Levesque, Littlefield, Schweit, Venable and Vondle Families.

In accordance with Linda's wishes, no services will be held. A private family celebration of her life will take place later. In lieu of flowers, please honor Linda's memory with a random act of kindness or a donation to a charity of your choice.