Obituary: Stanley 'Red' Brinkman, Lifelong Vermonter, Dies at 84

The independent-minded Brinkman was part of a close-knit family in Vergennes.

Apr. 3, 2026 at 10:03am

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A blurred, impressionistic photograph showing the silhouette of a lone fisherman casting his line into a calm lake, surrounded by the hazy, out-of-focus shapes of trees and mountains in the distance, conveying a sense of solitude and tranquility.The independent spirit and deep connection to nature that defined Stanley 'Red' Brinkman's life in Vermont.Vergennes Today

Stanley 'Red' Brinkman, a lifelong resident of Vergennes, Vermont, passed away at the age of 84 on March 28, 2026 following a struggle with pneumonia. Brinkman was the third of seven brothers in a tight-knit family, known for his free spirit and independent nature.

Why it matters

Brinkman's obituary highlights the passing of a longtime member of the Vergennes community, where he lived life on his own terms and was part of a close family that embodied traditional Vermont values of self-reliance, outdoor pursuits, and cherishing time with loved ones.

The details

Stanley 'Red' Brinkman was born in 1942 in Springfield, Massachusetts to Henry 'Jake' Minor Brinkman and Gladys McCabe Brinkman. He grew up in Vergennes, Vermont with his six brothers, spending weekends hunting, fishing, and swapping stories. In 1961, Brinkman married Saundria 'Sonnie' Hawkins and had two children, a daughter and a son. Brinkman lived an independent life, challenging the status quo and forging his own path.

  • Stanley 'Red' Brinkman was born on June 28, 1942.
  • Brinkman passed away on March 28, 2026 at the age of 84.

The players

Stanley 'Red' Brinkman

An 84-year-old lifelong resident of Vergennes, Vermont who passed away on March 28, 2026 following a struggle with pneumonia. Brinkman was known for his independent spirit and close-knit family ties.

Saundria 'Sonnie' Hawkins

Brinkman's wife, with whom he had two children.

Henry 'Jake' Minor Brinkman

Stanley Brinkman's father.

Gladys McCabe Brinkman

Stanley Brinkman's mother.

Beth Benoit

Brinkman's lifelong companion.

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The takeaway

Stanley 'Red' Brinkman's obituary celebrates the life of a quintessential Vermonter who lived life on his own terms, cherished his close-knit family, and embodied the independent spirit and outdoor traditions that have long defined the Green Mountain State.