Clarence Rice

MANCHESTER — Clarence Rice, 84, died Jan. 25, 2012, at Vermont Veterans Home in Bennington.

He was born in North Bennington on June 14, 1927, the son of John and Pearl (Sweet) Rice.

He was in the class of 1945 at Bennington High School, where he played baseball and football.

Mr. Rice was a World War II veteran of the Army Air Corps stationed in Guam as a sergeant with the 20th fighter wing 20th Air Force.

He worked as machinist and toolmaker for Mack Molding for 19 years and was also employed by Globe Union, Creative Tools and Hale Co.

He enjoyed fishing and hunting and he coached Little League (Indians) in Arlington.

Survivors include six children, Keith Rice of Cypress, Texas, Brenda Churco of Shaftsbury, Jeffrey Rice of Sunderland, Thomas Rice, Betsy Pratt, both of Arlington, and Maureen Rice of Manchester Center; four grandchildren; many nieces, nephews and cousins.

Mr. Rice was predeceased by a grandson; five siblings, William, Walter, Lincoln, Milford and Mabel; and in 2010 by his wife, the former Janice Secoy, whom he married in Bennington on July 12, 1952.

At the family’s request, the funeral service will be private and there will be no visiting hours.

Memorial contributions may be made to American Legion Post 69 in Arlington or Manchester Health Services, in care of Brewster Funeral Service, PO Box 885, Manchester Center, VT 05255.

To send email condolences, visit www.sheafuneralhomes.com.