W. Scott MacLachlan, DVM passed away from natural causes on July 29, 2025, while tending his garden at his home in Poultney, Vt. Scott's time ended suddenly, without warning and much too soon. Scott's life was full of curiosity about the natural world, and it was there he found spiritual connection. Scott's enthusiasm and passion for the environment was unrelenting. His devotion to, and love of, his family was bottomless.

Scott was born on April 11,1955 in Philadelphia to William B. MacLachlan and Patricia Spotts MacLachlan. Early life was spent growing up in West Hartford, Ct. There were ponds, fields and streams to explore which undoubtably laid the foundation for his love of the outdoors. He also had great freedom to explore when visiting the Maine coast where his paternal grandparents lived. Hours spent at tide pools, learning to row, seeing the water's iridescence at night, fishing, the sun and sea air filled his sensitivities. During high school years he attended Loomis Chaffee ('73) where he excelled in math, biology and lacrosse. Scott graduated from Williams College (BS'77) where he continued his studies of biology, the environment and playing lacrosse. Exploring his interests brought him to UNH where he earned a master's degree in wildlife management (MS'80). Of note was the study he conducted on bobcat habitat resulting in a greater understanding of the cats. He was involved in annual loon counts, and he studied hawk migration, always looking forward to seeing them circling overhead.

Throughout these times, Scott enjoyed skiing in Vermont and out west, canoe tripping and hiking, particularly in the White Mountains in New Hampshire. He relished a campfire, sharing memories and stories with family and friends, practices he continued faithfully. Early on, Scott had a discerning appetite eschewing anything not peanut butter and jelly, hot dogs and anything having lumps. He came into his own loving lobster, chowders, anything pie, anything made for him ("So good!") He was a good home cook and griller, and among family and friends, his canning efforts were greatly appreciated. Conversation about recipes and food was entertaining and fun.

Scott went on to the Tufts School of Veterinary Medicine where he earned a DVM '85. It was at Tufts that Scott met his beloved wife, Kristine Smith, DVM. They were married for 39 years, approaching their 40th anniversary this October. Scott and Kris chose to settle in Poultney where they established Poultney Veterinary Services which opened in August 1986. The practice served a mixed animal population including exotics. Scott loved wildlife rehabilitation, treating a myriad of animals including raptors, turtles and snakes. At one point, Scott implanted rattlesnakes with tracking devices for a study. Scott was a gifted surgeon and veterinarian whose generous compassion and empathy touched all whom he helped. Kris and Scott had a long and successful practice, retiring in 2017.

Scott was an avid photographer. His subject was the natural world, and photography was his way of seeing endless beauty. Whether he was in Vermont, on one of his yearly trips to the western desert, or on the coast of Maine, he found the essence of a place with his camera. Scott's latest explorations were of the night sky, full of the stars he adored. His love of gardening and the world of plants was tremendously important to him. He was generous with plant propagations and produce. Scott's memory of the Latin names for plants and animals was phenomenal and never challenged, he was a supreme botanist.

Endless hours were spent volunteering his time, talent and treasure. Favorite places were KEEC and Keewaydin Camp on Dunmore Lake where he attended as a camper and then as a Staffman. Scott gave many talks about the environment and all it holds for us. He enjoyed most interacting with campers and staff, inviting questions and discussion. Many children at camp and in town were fascinated by the animal bone collection he had curated. Scott's connection to the Keewaydin community ran deep as did his connection to the Poultney community. For a time, he served as the Tree Warden; produce found its way to the Food Pantry, Senior Center and to many friends; he was involved in supporting the Poultney Library, the Poultney Recreation Department and he recently started participating in open-mike nights with storytelling about his adventures.

With all his interests, pursuits and passions, Scott's concern and love for his family and friends came first. Scott was intelligent, gentle, generous, compassionate, empathetic. Scott's sense of humor was always at the ready especially enjoying the absurd. His life was quiet and huge at the same time. Though his passing was no doubt a surprise to him, it was his belief that life begins anew at death, yet another adventure ahead. "Y'know, it's the circle of life."

Scott was predeceased by his beloved daughter, Heather; and his parents; sister-in-law Susan Smith; mother-in-law Phyllis Smith and cousin Gail's husband, Doug Rainer.

Scott leaves his wife, Kris Smith, DVM of Poultney, Vt.; sister Dale M. Lewis (Richard) of Yarmouth, ME.; niece and nephews, Elizabeth C. Lewis (Louis Turner), Callum H. Lewis, and William M. Lewis; cousins, Gail, Jill and Bruce (Doug d., Ted and Lori respectively); son-in-law Justin Barnish and the many dear friends he cherished.

There will be a Celebration of Life for Scott on August 30, 2025. It will be held at the American Legion Hall in Poultney, Vt. from 1-3 p.m. Please come with a memory or story to share if you like. We ask that you hold him in your hearts and as he would hope, advocate for the environment and peace in the world.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to:

Poultney Rescue Squad, 409 VT-30, Poultney, Vt. 05764

Poultney Volunteer Hose Co #1, 55 Fire House Lane, Poultney, Vt. 05764