Lola Pierotti Aiken

Words about Lola

Lola Aiken was a force of nature to the end, a woman who will be remembered for her huge smile, her political acumen, her century of endless energy, and her commitment to the state she loved. Her support and devotion to her husband, the late Sen. George Aiken, was unwavering. Over the years, Lola built her own record of accomplishment on behalf of higher education, Home, Health and Hospice, and so much more. I will miss her as an advocate for many of the issues Vermonters care about, but I will also miss her as a neighbor from Putney and a friend. My heart goes out to the Aiken family. -- Gov. Peter Shumlin of Vermont
Her great partnership with her husband, a former Governor and then a U.S. Senator, is an important piece of the fabric of Vermont history. The daughter of a stonecutter, she never forgot her Vermont roots. She was well known for welcoming Vermonters whenever they stopped by his office in Washington to visit Senator Aiken – or, as she called him, "the Governor." She was a close friend of my mother, Alba Zambon Leahy, and for a time 75 years ago these two Italian-American Vermonters worked together at National Life in Montpelier. -- Sen. Patrick Leahy of Vermont
She and her husband were important partners in life, in politics and in their strong commitment to the state of Vermont. -- Sen. Bernie Sanders of Vermont
Vermont lost a champion today. Lola Aiken died this morning at the age of 102, but her legacy of love for Vermont will live on. She served her State and her husband, the late Sen. George Aiken, and never failed to leave her mark. Lola didn’t always take credit for her successes, but she never stood by silently when the opportunity came to help another person. ... Lola was one of my strongest supporters when I first sought public office in 2000, and her support never wavered for 14 years. She reminded me that being one’s self is the best way to serve others. Nobody wants a perfect person, because we are all imperfect. Lola, your fiery spirit will be much missed. My heart goes out to your family, loved ones, and friends. -- Lt. Gov. Phil Scott of Vermont

Obituary

Lola Pierotti Aiken died Monday, September 8, 2014 at the Gary Home in Montpelier where she has been a resident for the past several years.

This remarkable and vibrant lady was born more than 102 years ago in Montpelier Vermont.

After graduating as valedictorian from Montpelier High School and working for a local law firm, Lola applied for a state house job at the office of secretary of state and her life’s destiny was forever changed.

She soon became acquainted with many of the state’s political leaders, including the horticulturalist from Putney, George D. Aiken who served as speaker, lieutenant governor, and starting in 1937, governor until his election to the United States Senate in 1940. Newly elected Senator Aiken recognized Lola as a politically astute woman with strong management skills and upon invitation she joined his staff on January 10, 1941. Later in the 1950’s, the Senator appointed her as Chief of his Washington staff.

After the death of the Senator’s first wife, Lola became his social companion and on June 30, 1967 they wed. At the Senator’s and Lola’s direction, she was removed from the Senate payroll and served without pay until the Senator’s retirement in 1975. They came home to Vermont and settled in George Aiken’s home town of Putney. When the “Governor” (as Lola fondly referred to him) died in 1984, she returned to Montpelier and spent the remainder of her life in the city she loved with the people who loved her.

This was not retirement. Lola became active in many community and state commitments. She served on the Boards of the George D. Aiken Lecture Series, Champlain College, Old Rockingham Meeting House Association, Friends of the State House, Vermont Historical Society, Judicial Conduct Board of the Vermont Supreme Court, University of Vermont School of Natural Resources, President Calvin Coolidge Foundation Advisory Board, Honorary Chair for Central Vermont Home, Health and Hospice Capital Campaign, and NECI Scholarships. She also received Dr. of Laws from the University of Vermont, Dr. of Laws from Champlain College, Outstanding Service Medallion from Board of Fellows, Norwich University, and the first Grace Coolidge award.

Throughout her life Lola was always an optimistic, positive, outgoing, and caring person. She never passed a young child without stopping to say hello, always bringing a smile to the youngster’s face. Lola touched many people with her kindness, generosity and love. Her legacy will continue to embody the spirit of Vermont.

Lola is survived by three nephews - Doug Robie and wife Margie Torrey of Underhill VT, Scott Robie and wife Ellen of Naples FL, and Lee Robie and wife Penny of Loveland OH and many grandnephews and grandnieces as well as the stepchildren and family members of the Aiken family. Lola was predeceased by her sisters Rosina Pierotti and Ollie Robie.

Lola’s family recognizes that there are many people in the greater Montpelier area and beyond who went the extra mile helping and socializing with her over the past several years. To mention everyone who comes to mind would certainly miss some. Thus, Lola’s family simply sends our grateful appreciation to everyone who made her life rich and enjoyable and extends our sincere thanks to the staff at The Gary Home and her special companions and friends.

Prior to her death Lola requested that in lieu of flowers or other acknowledgements, she would like to be remembered with a prayer of one’s choice.

Following burial in Putney next to her Governor, a Memorial Mass will be held at St. Augustine’s Church, 16 Barre Street, Montpelier on Monday, Sept. 15th at 11:00 am.

On-line condolences may be sent to www.guareandsons.com

Guare & Sons/Barber & Lanier Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

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