Julie Ellen Ackermann

Julie Ellen Ackermann, 65, of Cabot, died at her home on Monday, October 13, 2025.

The oldest of six children, Julie was born on August 30, 1960, in Middletown, Connecticut, to Calvert and Patricia (Cronin) Foster, who later decided to settle in Vermont.

Julie graduated from Hazen Union High School in 1978 and, in 1979, married her high school sweetheart, Walt Ackermann of Cabot, where they raised their four children. Together, they worked at Foster Industries, Inc. in Wolcott, a machine shop founded by Julie’s father, and for several years owned and operated Harry’s Hardware in Cabot—a store once owned and named after her Uncle Harry.

Julie found joy in her work and valued the friendship and community that came with it. Intrigued by small-town history, she was always eager to hear your story, make connections, and learn what brought you here. She appreciated the simple, meaningful things, loved a good yard sale, and enjoyed giving antiques a new home.

Modest in her ways and generous in spirit, Julie lived to love, always greeting others with a warm hug. She will be remembered for her kindness, for providing a safe place to land, comfort food, a hot cup of coffee, and honest conversation. She made the world a better place. Her greatest love was her family, who will hold tight to traditions and carry forward her gentle heart, unconditional love, and joy for the holiday seasons.

She is survived by her husband, Walt; their four children, Kate (Tyler) Demas of Northfield, Ben Ackermann of Cabot, Scott (Angie) Ackermann of North Danville, and Jill (Steven) Vilbrin of Cabot; six grandchildren, Abby, Ethan, Owen, Juniper, Shae, and baby Weston Walter; her mother-in-law, Elizabeth Ackermann of Cabot; three siblings, Jayne Fradette of Morrisville, Scott (Ruth) Foster of Hardwick, and Amy (Kevin) Smith of Woodbury; her sister-in-law, Sue Ackermann of Cabot; as well as several nieces, nephews, and cousins.

She was predeceased by her parents and two brothers, Eugene Foster and Calvert Foster, Jr.

Interment will be private at the Cabot Plains Cemetery at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in her memory may be made to the Cabot Historical Society or the Hardwick Historical Society. Condolences and memories of Julie may be shared with her family at dgfunerals.com.

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