Albert Phillip Godreau

The challenges of recovering from polio as a teen set a true-grit course for the life of Albert P. Godreau, who died on November 30, 2024. He was 88 years old.

Born in 1936 to Margarite and Albert Godreau, Al grew up in Lynn MA.

Polio during high school led Al to take a post graduate year at Kimball Union Academy in Meriden, NH, where he played hockey, earning MVP.

Lettering in hockey and playing two seasons as goalie at Brown University, Al graduated with a BA in 1959. Following Naval Officers' Training School in 1960, Al completed UDT training (precursor to Navy Seals) at the Naval Training Station in Key West, Florida.

Careers in banking and then commercial real estate in New York City, Chicago and Stamford, CT followed his Navy service.

After moving to Arlington, VT in 1993, artwork, dogs, chess and outdoor projects filled his life.

Beginning in 1994 he served as Land Use Administrator and later as Health Officer for Arlington for over 20 years. He approached his work with a quick wit and a dedication to win-win outcomes. He is fondly remembered by many in the Arlington community for his support and generosity.

While the consequences of polio presented additional challenges in Al's later life, he pressed on, enjoying fly fishing and birding, traveling to remote habitats with his beloved wife and partner Dr. Mardi Crane-Godreau.

Al is survived by four children, Edward Feather, Dirk Feather, Peter Godreau and Phillip Godreau; five grandchildren, Whit Feather, Azalea Feather, James Feather, Claire Godreau, and Sloane Godreau; his former spouse Nancy Godreau and his wife, Mardi Crane-Godreau.

A celebration of Al's life and his love of Arlington will be held May 17th at 1pm at the Arlington Commons 3938 Vermont Rte 7a, Arlington, VT 05250. In lieu of flowers, please plant a tree or flowers in his memory. Or, think of him as you add a little maple syrup to your dinner. It always helped to make him happy.