Julius Francis Dychton, 70, died peacefully on December 2, 2025, at the McClure Miller Respite House following a two-year battle against pancreatic cancer.
Julius was born on January 8, 1955, in Fairport, N.Y. His No. 1 life passion was skiing, which led him to relocate to Huntington, Vt., in 1978. Julius met his life partner, Colleen Flynn, in February 1990 on a ski trip to Vail. They married later that year and had two children.
Julius was an avid ski instructor at Mad River Glen for more than 45 years, where he made many lifelong friends. Julius loved winter and counted down the days to when snow would fall. He took pleasure in plowing neighbors’ driveways with his “Green Beast.” Julius also enjoyed the outdoors during summer — hobbies included berry picking, rowing, sailing, landscaping and having meals by the campfire.
As owner of Dychton Precision Woodworks, Julius was a master cabinetmaker and craftsman. He produced custom cabinets and furniture, and his reputation for outstanding work produced steady recommendations and satisfied customers.
Julius was predeceased by his parents, Thadeus and Harriet Dychton. He is survived by his wife of 35 years, Colleen; his children, Shannon and Cassandra; his brother, Christopher; and several siblings-in-law, nieces and nephews.
Julius’ family is grateful for longtime friends who were able to visit in November and for the kind, gentle care provided to him and his family by the staff of University of Vermont Home Health & Hospice and the McClure Miller Respite House.
A celebration of Julius’ life will be held on Saturday, February 7, 2026, 2 to 5 p.m., at the Huntington Public Library to offer family and friends an opportunity to share memories and honor him. In lieu of flowers, the family invites donations to be made in Julius’ memory to the Stark Mountain Foundation or the McClure Miller Respite House.
This article appears in Love & Marriage Issue • 2026.