Andrew Richard Totten

Andrew “Drew” R. Totten, MS, BSc, RN, CPC, CLNC, (68) of Bennington, VT passed away peacefully on August 15, 2024 at SVMC surrounded by his family, friends and the many staff, nurses and doctors he trained and taught over the years. He lived a life driven by his unwavering dedication to supporting his community, a relentless pursuit of knowledge, and his deep love for his family and friends. Drew grew up in Arlington, VT with his parents the late Paul Totten and Dorothy (Leahey) Totten and brother Glenn, where he spent much of his childhood at his parents' business, Arlington Cut Rate, a local drugstore and luncheonette. These early experiences shaped his deep connection to his community, a value he passed on to his children, Michael (1983), and Lindsay (1987). Drew was a dedicated volunteer at the Manchester Rescue Squad, where he became a lifetime member. It wouldn’t be uncommon to see Michael or Lindsay with him, whether they were running errands or stopping by the Rescue Squad to connect with the volunteers who had become close family friends. In addition to his volunteer work, Drew explored several different career paths, including owning Totten Office Products in Manchester, VT, and, unsurprisingly, serving as an Executive Chef at the Dorset Field Club. Ultimately, his passion for the medical field led him to train as a phlebotomist and take a position within the Emergency Room, where his curiosity thrived with endless opportunities to learn and grow. This naturally led him to become a Registered Nurse, graduating from Southern Vermont College with his BSN in 2000, followed by achieving his Master of Nursing Education from Chamberlain University in 2017. Drew’s professional accolades were vast, but it was in his role as an educator and leader in the nursing field that his passion and energy truly shone. Colleagues, students, and family alike witnessed how his dedication to nursing became a synergistic force. Drew knew that in order to keep it, you have to give it away. True to his style, he devoted himself to the development and support of newly trained and aspiring nurses. This commitment led him to become the Director of Education, Simulation & Organizational Development at Southern Vermont Medical Center, and later, an Assistant Professor of Nursing at Vermont State University. While Drew's professional life was marked by dedication and achievements, it was in his personal life that his family and friends experienced his warmth and thoughtfulness. An amazing chef, Drew had a gift for bringing people together through his cooking. He connected with those he loved by preparing meals with care and intention, making every gathering at his table an experience. Whether family, friend, or colleague, sitting at his dinner table often led to lively discussions on current events or a round of his latest repertoire of jokes. The holidays, especially Christmas, were a time of joy and tradition in Drew's home, where gatherings were always highlighted by the iconic Christmas Story leg lamp proudly displayed beside the dining room table. Beyond his love for cooking, Drew had an adventurous spirit that led him to explore new places throughout his life. Whether it was enjoying the beach with close family and friends or sitting by a quiet pond in Maine while his children swam, Drew cherished these moments of connection. He made time to visit those he loved, ensuring that distance would not weaken the relationship. Drew held a deep admiration for his older brother Glenn and a profound appreciation and love for his mother. When not focused on work, family, or cooking, Drew enjoyed collecting, traveling, restoring his hearse “Jenny,” and skydiving. Drew was predeceased by his parents Paul and Dorothy (Leahy) Totten. Drew is survived by his brother Glenn (Nancy) Totten of Alexandria, VA. His son Michael (Rachel) Totten of Wells, VT. His daughter Lindsay Totten (Phil) Manchester, VT. His grandchildren Kaidyn and Addyson Totten. His niece Meghan (Justin) Mosler of Alexandria, VA and nephew, Brendan Totten of Ireland. Drew's impact continues through the nurses he trained, who now carry his passion and dedication into their work. The deep ripple of his influence on the community will remain strong. His friends and family can take comfort in knowing he is now at peace, reunited with those who went before him. Calling hours for Drew will be held on Wednesday, August 21st, 2024 from 4pm until 6pm at the Mahar funeral home in Bennington. Immediately following the calling hours, all in attendance are invited to gather at the front of the funeral home, where Jenny, Drew’s hearse, will be waiting to take him on his final ride. If friends wish to honor Drew's memory, he requested that contributions be made directly to the American Cancer Society. Online Guestbook condolences may be made at www.maharandsonfuneralhome.net