Carl "Bud" Stensland

Carl "Bud" Stensland, 81, a lifelong resident of Bigelow Rd., Hampton, passed away peacefully on April 5, 2015, Easter Sunday, with his loving wife of sixty years, Phyllis (Gamache) Stensland by his side. Known for his hard work and selflessness, Bud grew up on his family's farm and spent many wonderful days outside as a child. In 1954, Bud married his "sweetie" Phyllis and started a truly remarkable love story. Bud leaves behind their two sons, Michael and Paul who fondly remember their father as a coach, best friend and loving mentor. He taught by example, especially how to be a husband and father. Bud worked for thirty six years at Brand-Rex to support his family before enjoying his retirement. He loved to sit out on the sun porch, watch the birds (especially the sandpipers by the shore), and root for his grandchildren in their athletic and academic pursuits. Bud could be found at every cross-country and soccer match, every band concert and told his grandchildren regularly how much he loved them. He was a joy to so many but none greater than to his wife. Bud was an active man exercising at the Mansfield Community Center, running errands and taking care of projects around the house, but no matter what he was doing during the day, he wouldn't be anywhere else when Phyllis returned from work. Together they have built a beautiful legacy which will surely carry on. Bud is also survived by his grandchildren, Tracey Miller and her husband Mike, and Matt, Juli and Carl Stensland; his daughters in law Janice and Debbie, his brothers in law and their wives, many nieces and nephews including Charlene and Fred Perry, grand nieces and grand nephews and a community of loving friends. To summarize such an important person's life is nearly impossible and for all of those who knew and loved Bud, he will be missed dearly. There will be no calling hours. His funeral service will be held on Wednesday April 8, 2015 at 11:00am at Hampton Congregational Church, 263 Main St., Hampton. Interment will be at a later date in Litchfield Cemetery, Hampton. Kindly omit flowers. His family suggests memorial donations to St. Joseph Living Center End of Life Suite, 14 Club Rd., Windham, CT. 06280. For an online memorial guestbook, please visit www.potterfuneralhome.com .