Groton, VT Ralph Eugene Carpenter, 80, died Friday, December 26, 2014, at the St. Johnsbury, VT Health & Rehab Center following a period of failing health. He was born on July 26, 1934 in Newbury, VT, a son of Eugene and Dorothy (Lamphere) Carpenter. Ralph was a truck driver for over 50 years. He started driving for the former Plymwood Furniture Company in Lisbon, NH. Ralph later drove for Decato Brothers Trucking Company in Lebanon, NH for over 40 years. He later drove part time for Irwin Perrin in Barton, VT hauling Ethan Allen Furniture. Following retirement Ralph could be seen at numerous auctions in the area, buying tools and selling them at local flea markets. One of Ralph s real passions was dancing. He loved dancing with his girls at Frye s Barn in Danville, VT and the other dance halls in the area. Ralph married the former Phyllis Williams on March 31, 1955. He was predeceased by a sister, Betty White and a brother, Dale Carpenter. Survivors include his wife of 59 years, Phyllis Carpenter of Groton; five children, Maureen Mosher and husband Steve of Barnet, VT, Shelley Williams of Monroe, NH, Rhonda Lakin and husband Fred of South Ryegate, VT, Kim Longmoore and husband David of Newbury, VT, and Shawn Carpenter of Monroe, NH; 11 grandchildren; 18 great grandchildren; a sister, Dorothy Labbe and husband Emile of Southington, CT; along with several nieces, nephews and cousins. There will be no calling hours. A graveside service will be in the spring in the Groton Village Cemetery.