06/03/08
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Jacob L. Sturgis, retired vice president
Jacob Louis Sturgis, 93, of Rehoboth Beach, passed away Saturday, May 31, 2008, at Cadbury in Lewes.
He was born December 31, 1914 in Snow Hill, Md., son of the late Jacob B. and Bessie Connor Sturgis.
Mr. Sturgis graduated from Beacom Business School and the University of Pennsylvania Wharton Evening School of Accounts and Finance. He was employed by, and held senior management positions with, Worth Steel Company, Colorado Fuel and Iron Co. and Koppers Co. He retired in 1973 as vice president of Koppers International.
He was a 32nd degree Mason and enjoyed his Masonic affiliation. He was a member of All Saints’ Episcopal Church where he served in a number of positions including as a vestry member and treasurer. He was also a member of the Rehoboth Beach Country Club.
He is survived by his wife Nadine Aydelotte Sturgis; a daughter, Ellen Bartels of Leawood, Kan.; a son Robert Sturgis of Solebury, Pa.; four grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren.
All services will be private. There will be a reception for friends and family at the Rehoboth Beach Country Club, 240 W. Side Drive, at 12:30 p.m., Thursday June 5.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions be made to All Saints’ Church Building Fund, 18 Olive Ave., Rehoboth Beach, DE 19971 or to Shriners Hospital for Crippled Children, 3551 N. Broad St., Philadelphia, PA 19140. Arrangements are being handled by Parsell Funeral Enterprises Inc., Lewes.
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David Bowen, retired farmer
David Bowen, 53, of Frankford died at Beebe Medical Center, Lewes.
He was the son of the late David and Nancy Fedaman Bowen.
Dave was a retired farmer. He loved drag racing and liked to work outside. He loved to drive around in his truck and waste gas. He was a very devoted family man and was excellent at lecturing on staying on the right track.
He is survived by his wife of 24 years, Ida D. Bowen; his sons, David Lee Bowen and wife Misty, of Bridgeville, Fabian Wayne Bowen of Chambersburg, Pa., and Steven Allen Bowen of Ocean View; his daughters, Kimberly Bernice Bowen of Ocean View and Karen A. Bowen of Clarksville; his brothers, William Bowen and wife Kathleen of Millsboro and John Bowen of Frankford; his sisters, Nancy Bowen of Wilmington, Melinda Bowen of Seaford and Tina Bowen of Seaford; eight grandchildren and two on the way.
He was preceded in death by one sister, Elizabeth Collins, in 1992.
A viewing will be held from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., Wednesday, June 4, at Watson Funeral Home 211 Washington St. Millsboro. Interment will be private.
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Sara Elizabeth Jensen, active in community
Sara Elizabeth “Betty” Jensen, 88, of Dover, formerly of Milford, died Friday, May 30, 2008, in Capitol Healthcare, Dover.
Betty was born one of 11 children in Milford, the daughter of the late George and Lena Macklin Manlove.
She was a homemaker.
Through the years, Betty had many hobbies and activities. She was a member of Avenue United Methodist Church, Milford, and a member of the Milford Senior Center, where she sang in the choir and played a kazoo in the band entertaining in hospitals and nursing homes in the area.
Betty participated in the Governor’s Walk for seniors in Rehoboth Beach for several years. She did some gardening, loved to ride her bike, took up knitting and learned to cane chairs. She belonged to the neighborhood “coffee clatch” and played cards with the “girls” every week.
Betty volunteered at the Blood Bank of Dover and was a member of the VFW Auxiliary, Blue Hen Post 6483 of Milford.
She collected shells and stones, pennies, music boxes and Delaware items. Betty also worked the elections.
In recent years, she worked with the police department to get a Neighborhood Watch started in her area of town. She was very involved with that organization for quite a few years.
Betty loved to walk with her “Big Stick” and continued to do so up until the very end. She would spend most of her day walking all over town. She would pick up newspapers for people and lay them on their porch where they could get them easily. On trash day, she would put folks’ trash cans beck where they belonged as well. Betty was always doing for others.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband of 48 years, Neils Jensen in 1987; two sisters, Jeanette Van Buren Frazer and Peggy Anstine Bennett; five brothers, James E. Manlove, Milton C. Manlove, John P. Manlove, William Gordon Manlove, George Manlove; her twin brother, Theodore R. Manlove; and several nieces and nephews.
She is survived by her daughter, Joan Theodora Duphily of Dover; two brothers, Benjamin Manlove of California and LeRoy Manlove of Newark; three grandchildren, Crystal Duphily and her fiancé Chad Surface, and Dionne Duphily, both of Dover, and Darry Duphily-DuBre and his wife Sue DuBre of Lewes; and three great-granddaughters, Allison and Brittney Wass and Quinn DuBre.
Funeral services will be at 1 p.m., Tuesday, June 3, in Lofland Funeral Home, 102 Lakeview Ave., Milford.
Burial will be in Milford Community Cemetery, N. Walnut Street, Milford.
Instead of flowers, the family requests contributions to the Vitas’s Charitable Contributions, 100 Commerce Drive, Suite 302, Newark, DE 19713.
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Janice B. McKee, former waitress
Janice B. McKee, 88, of Wilmington, passed away Saturday, May 31, 2008, in Foulk Manor North Nursing Home where she was a resident.
Janice was born in Harrington, to parents Bessie and Lambert Blades.
She was a 1937 graduate of Harrington High School.
Janice moved to Seaford where she worked at the DuPont plant for 14 years.
She also worked as a waitress in the area for many years which she truly enjoyed as she was a true people person.
She moved to the Wilmington area in 1998.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by one brother, Leonard C. Blades in 2006.
She is survived by one sister, Emma B. Howard of Wilmington; one nephew, Lee C. Howard of Newark; and one niece, Janet A. Howard of Rehoboth Beach.
Graveside services will be 2 p.m. Wednesday, June 4, in Hollywood Cemetery, Harrington.
Instead of flowers, the family suggests contributions to the American Heart Association.
Arrangements by Price Funeral Home, Harrington.
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Margaret M. Conaway, ladies auxiliary member
Margaret Mary Conaway, 94, passed away Saturday, May 31, 2008, at Genesis Elder Care in Seaford.
Margaret was born April 17, 1914, in Wilmington, the daughter of the late Charles A. Dougherty and Mary S. Kooch of Wilmington. She married her late husband, Joseph C. Conaway, in 1935.
Margaret graduated from Saint Patrick’s Commercial High School in Wilmington in 1929 and was employed with Woolworth Five and Ten in Wilmington. After marrying in 1935, Margaret remained a stay-at-home mother. In 1974 she and her husband moved to Bridgeville. She was an active member of the Greenwood CHEER Center and the Bridgeville Fire Company Ladies’ Auxiliary. She was also a member of Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church in Seaford.
She was predeceased by five brothers and one sister.
She is survived by her only son, Joseph T. Conaway and his wife Joann of Bridgeville; four grandchildren, Joanne T. Collison and her husband R. Michael of Bridgeville, Jenyfer T. Conaway of Winnsboro, S.C., Jill T. Lewandowski and her husband Edward of Bridgeville, and Warrant Officer I Joseph T. Conaway II and wife Connie Faye of Hampton, Ga.; and seven great-granddaughters, Amanda, Lindsey and Chelsea Collison; Kyrra and Kori Lewandowski; and Samantha and Kayleigh Conaway. In addition, she is survived by three sisters-in-law, Josephine Sharp, Dorothy Fenimore and Ann Dougherty; and numerous nieces and nephews.
Friends may call from 6 to 8 p.m., Tuesday, June 3, at the Parsell Funeral Homes & Crematorium, Hardesty Chapel, 202 Laws St., Bridgeville. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at Our Lady of Lourdes Roman Catholic Church, Stein Highway, Seaford, at 11 a.m., Wednesday, June 4. Interment will follow at the Bridgeville Cemetery in Bridgeville.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Our Lady of Lourdes Church Building Fund, 532 Stein Highway, Seaford, DE 19973 or to the Bridgeville Volunteer Fire Company Ladies’ Auxiliary, 421 South Main St., Bridgeville, DE 19933.
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Russell D. Brittingham, retired banker
Russell D. Brittingham, 78, of Salisbury, Md., and formerly of Selbyville, passed away Friday, May 30, 2008, at home.
He was born to the late Dee and Mildred Williams Brittingham on April 18, 1930.
Russell was a banker, retiring with 46 years of service. He retired in 1995 from the Baltimore Trust Company in Selbyville. Russell was formerly a member of Salem United Methodist Church, Selbyville. He was a member of Asbury United Methodist, Salisbury, Md., a member of the Doric Masonic Lodge No. 30 A.F. & A.M., Millville, and the Delaware Consistory, Wilmington. He was a veteran of the Korean War serving in the U.S. Navy. Russell was an avid golfer. He was a member of the Ocean City (Md.) Golf Club and a member of the Salisbury Elks Club, Salisbury. He had been a member of the American Institute of Banking.
In addition to his parents, he was also preceded in death by his wife, Iris Clogg Brittingham, who passed in 2000.
Mr. Brittingham is survived by his fiancée, Shirley Tyndall; a brother, Wayne L. Brittingham and his wife Doris of Dagsboro; a niece, Denise J. Farber of Dagsboro; two great-nieces, Katlyn and Kara Farber; adopted sons, Tim Tyndall and his wife Beth of Newark, Md., and Larry Tyndall and his companion Bob Feuer of Kansas City; and adopted grandchildren, Danny, Megan and Ashley.
Services will be held at 2 p.m., Tuesday, June 3, at the Watson Funeral Home, 211 S. Washington St., Millsboro, where a Masonic service will be held prior to the funeral service. Friends may call one hour before. Interment will be in Prince Georges Cemetery, Dagsboro.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations to any local hospice in Russell’s name would be appreciated.
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William T. McLaughlin, Wilmington mayor
After a lifetime of service to Delaware citizens, William T. “Bill” McLaughlin, 91, the former two-term mayor of Wilmington, passed away at the Methodist Country House.
Mr. McLaughlin, a lifelong Wilmingtonian, has been almost synonymous with the city since his 1964 Council election, and perhaps even more so since his retirement from political life in 1984. That was when he became ardently involved in numerous charities in the state.
Bill was born into a large Irish-Catholic family on Dec. 22, 1916. He was educated at St. Mary’s Parochial School and Wilmington High School, where he was inducted into the Hall of Fame. After his Air Force career, he continued his studies at the universities of Texas, South Carolina and Delaware.
During World War II, he enlisted in the U.S. Army Air Force. As a B-25 bomber radio operator and tail-gunner, he became one of the first Delaware residents to fly 50 combat missions and earned over 10 decorations including the Air Medal with the Oak Leaf Cluster and the Asiatic Theatre Ribbon with two Bronze Stars.
Later, Bill served as the commander of VFW Post 7006, and he was inducted into the inaugural class of the Delaware Veterans Hall of Heroes.
Bill’s professional career began at Delaware Floor Products. After his coworkers were refused a two-cent raise, he helped organize Delaware’s first CIO union and became the state’s initial shop steward. He later worked for Duncan Electronics and caught the eye of the DuPont Company after he became one of the first Delawareans to build a television from scratch. He worked 30 years for E.I. Du Pont De Nemours and Company where he became a supervisor and honed many of the managerial skills people noted during his tenure as mayor. He supervised the installation of the company’s first word processing and computer system.
Inspired by the example of his sister, a Franciscan nun who was the principal of a school for at-risk youth in Baltimore, Mr. McLaughlin began his public life. A naturally gifted leader, Mr. McLaughlin was also a surprisingly reluctant candidate at first. The local Democratic Party courted him to run for office, but it took his more outgoing wife to urge him to give it a go. He was elected to Wilmington City Council in 1964 and served as the city’s Finance Chairman. It was during this time that he forged his career-long trait as a highly principled leader who would not tolerate injustice. Of this Sen. Biden said, “He is a gentleman but with a backbone of steel who would tell anyone, including presidents, CEOs, and party leaders, if he spotted an injustice.” Former News Journal Editor John Taylor added, “He is a man of straight, no-baloney talk whose honesty tempered by sincerity and understanding seldom offends people.” After 12 years on Council, it was then that Mr. McLaughlin, now retired from the DuPont Company, assumed his most prominent elected office, the mayoralty. He guided the city through unprecedented building, housing, economic and cultural growth. Hailed by presidents, senators, governors and publications as one of America’s greatest mayors, Bill humbly deflected credit for Wilmington’s revitalization to his loyal, dedicated staff, elected officials, the citizens, and the nonprofit organizations. He modestly saw himself as just one link in a long line of Wilmington mayors who dedicated their lives to the city’s renaissance. Bill’s humility and trait of giving credit to others rather than himself prompted columnist Bill Frank to write, “One trouble with the mayor is that he doesn’t know how to boast of his achievements. Hence, it is necessary for others to do the boasting.”
Mr. McLaughlin presided over several historically important events and programs during his tenure. One such event occurred shortly after his election when a panel of federal judges issued the largest metropolitan school busing order in the nation’s history. Bill quickly took the lead role by enlisting the help of elected officials and community leaders to join him in guiding a peaceful process. Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Norm Lockman wrote, “Wilmington’s most effective mayor kept the county from falling into a pit of racial conflict. Had he not done that Wilmington would not have attracted the major banks now lining its boulevards and providing our skyline. That is his lasting legacy to Delaware.” Gov. Pete duPont noted, “After the court order came down, Bill McLaughlin, more than anyone else, was responsible for the peaceful desegregation of the schools.” Sen. Biden stated, “In times of crisis, God sends us the right people. During school desegregation, he sent us Bill. He did more for race relations in this state than anyone since I’ve held public office.”
McLaughlin also pioneered Wilmington’s expansion as a modern banking and financial center. After reading in the Wall Street Journal that many New York bank presidents were dissatisfied there, he courted 18 banks to come to Wilmington. Working closely with Gov. duPont, he then lobbied for the passage of the Financial Center Development Act, which eventually created 40,000 jobs and a new skyline. Former Channel 12 analyst Joe Farley remarked, “If we want to be historically accurate, then it was Bill McLaughlin who had the original idea to bring the banks to Delaware.”
Mr. McLaughlin, with assistance from Sen. Biden and President Jimmy Carter, rebuilt the city by securing more UDAG funds per capita than any other American city. After Delaware went from the 50th state to first in economic growth, the McLaughlin administration gained national recognition for the city’s turnaround. He then turned his vision to the Christina and Brandywine rivers by creating the River-to-River Project. He pioneered the Riverfront revitalization we see today by securing homes for Mitchell Associates, Moeckel Carbonell Associates and the Delaware Theatre Company. Working with CEO Alex Giacco, he convinced the Hercules Corporation not to relocate and to build a new headquarters near the Brandywine River. He spearheaded the revitalization of the Trolley Square section of the city and personally named the area Trolley Square to recall its historical roots. As mayor, he oversaw the modernization of the Port, making it the No. 1 importer of bananas in the U.S. He created WEDCO, which promoted minority economic development.
Gov. du Pont summarized Bill’s political career at a tribute dinner, “In the dark days of the 1970s, Bill was the most effective person in turning this state around and restoring optimism to Delaware.” Sen. Biden added, “He has set the standard for every elected official in Delaware.”
At a time when most men enjoy their retirement, Mr. McLaughlin, then in his early 70s, began a third career of philanthropy and volunteerism by becoming the president of a charitable organization that was dear to his heart, The Ministry of Caring. He served as president/chairman of more than 10 other boards, including the Future Stars, Sister Cities and the VFW. He was a board member for more than 30 additional boards including the National Conference of Christians and Jews, YWCA, Kiwanis Club, NAACP, United Negro College Fund, United Way, Mary Mother of Hope House, West End Neighborhood House, Community Legal Service, Wilmington Senior Center, Family Services, Big Brothers of America and his simultaneous parishes, Christ Our King and St. Mary’s.
For his selfless benefactions and fundraising, he was the recipient of more than 80 Man-of-the-Year or service awards including the Delaware State Chamber of Commerce, National Conference of Christians and Jews, Delaware Bar Association, A.C.L.U., Masonic Lodge (1st recipient), Family Services, National Society of Fundraising Executives, the Alexis I. duPont Bayard Award for Public Service, and the NAACP Humanitarian Award (twice). The William T. McLaughlin Public Safety Building was dedicated in his name in 1988, and the Kiwanis Club named its service award after him. He was awarded honorary degrees from Goldey Beacom College and Delaware Technical & Community College. Delaware Today magazine named him one of “The Thirty People Who Changed Delaware.” He was also presented more than 30 local and national government proclamations, including the Order of the First State. The Ministry’s Brother Ron called Bill the “hero of the nonprofit community.” Perhaps former Mayor Tom Maloney described Bill most aptly when he presented him the Civic League’s Good Government Award: “He has tirelessly devoted himself to serving his community. Hardly an individual in this town can say no to the gracious charm of a request from Bill to serve on a committee, co-chair an event, or make a contribution to a worthwhile community activity. He has raised more money, served on more nonprofit boards and given more volunteer time than anyone in Delaware.” His generosity to children and adults down on their luck is legendary. DCF chair Fred Sears added, “It’s not hard to find someone who talks about what he has done for them personally and see tears come to their eyes.”
His friends honored him with four tribute dinners in 1984, 1985, 1999, and his recent 90th birthday party. These tributes enabled Bill to raise more money for charity in his name than any other Delawarean. At the 1999 tribute, MBNA founder Charles Cawley and the community raised more than $1 million to launch The William T. and Mary A. McLaughlin Education Fund. The fund supports the renowned Future Stars program which helps deserving Delaware youths achieve their academic goals. To date, more than 20 graduates of the program have attended college. At his 90th birthday party, Sam Beard and 10 friends created the McLaughlin Long-Term Endowment Fund which is projected to endow the Future Stars for more than 100 years. Bill McLaughlin will be remembered for dedicating his life to helping others and as a quintessential booster of Wilmington and its citizens.
His brother, Harry, of Lewes, survives him, as do his sons, William F., of Wilmington and Donald M., of Maplewood, N.J., their respective spouses, Toni and Teresa; and his three best friends, grandsons, Christopher, Ian and Kyle. His Irish immigrant parents, Ellen and James, produced 12 offspring, so Bill never lacked for the company and counsel of his many brothers, sisters, nieces and nephews of this great family.
The family would like to thank John Flaherty and Gene West for escorting Bill to many doctor visits. Thanks also to the loving staff at the Methodist Country House and Delaware Hospice and to Dr. Charles Hill for extraordinary care.
Family and friends are invited to attend a viewing at St. Thomas the Apostle Church, 4th St. and Bancroft Parkway from 4 to 8 p.m., Tuesday, June 3. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10 a.m., Wednesday, June 4, at St. Elizabeth Church, Cedar and Clayton sts. Interment will be in Cathedral Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests contributions to either William T. & Mary A. McLaughlin Education Fund, c/o The Delaware Community Foundation, PO Box 1636, Wilmington DE 19899; or the Ministry of Caring, 506 N. Church St., Wilmington, DE 19801.
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Floyd Donald Henry, Dana Corp. retiree
Floyd Donald “Hank” Henry, 83, of Milton, formerly of Pottstown, Pa., died Friday, May 30, 2008.
He was born June 15, 1924, in Pottstown, son of Wilmer Henry and Elvennia Gloss Henry.
Hank married Marlene Laver in 1950. The couple celebrated their 57th wedding anniversary in June of last year.
Hank was employed by the Dana Corp. for 39 years until his retirement in 1980.
He moved to Delaware that same year.
Some of the things Hank enjoyed were time with his family, working in his garage workshop, mowing grass, making special dishes in the kitchen and watching the birds from his porch.
He will be missed.
He is survived by his wife Marlene; three daughters, Linda Butler and husband Ken of Maryland, Ellen Harpold and husband Randall of Middletown, and Bobbi Lingo and husband John of Milton; grandchildren, Laura Mangin, Andrew Lopuski, Paul Rickards, Robert Lingo, and Breanna Harpold; and great-grandchildren, James Mangin and Joseph Mangin.
All services will be private.
Instead of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions be made to Delaware Hospice Center, 100 Patriots Way, Milford, DE 19963.
Arrangements by Parsell Funeral Enterprises Inc., Lewes.
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Brown Walker, Ford retiree
Brown Walker, 85, of Ellendale, died Monday, May 26, 2008, at the home of his daughter and caregiver, Betty, surrounded by his loving children and family.
Brown was born Aug. 18, 1922, in Saunderville, Ga., to the late John H. and Mattie Trawick Walker.
Brown came to Lewes, where he met the love of his life, Barbara Ann Dunning, and they married in 1949.
Brown them moved his family to Chester, Pa., making it their home.
Brown worked for the Ford Motor Co., and Dee’s Paper Co., in Chester. He retired from both companies and returned to Delaware to live.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Barbara, in 1969; and a daughter, Ethel Marie Carter.
Brown is survived by five sons, Nathaniel B. Walker Jr. of Darby, Pa., Tyrone R. Walker of Chester, Maurice R. Walker of Chester, John H. Walker of Millsboro, and Larry T. Bradley of Chester; two daughters, Mattie J. Walker Green of Delaware, and Betty Jo Walker Green of Ellendale; 18 grandchildren; 28 great-grandchildren; and three great-great-grandchildren.
Memorial services will be 1 p.m. Tuesday, June 3, in Mount Zion AME Church, Highway 16, Ellendale. The Rev. Thomas Brown will officiate.
Burial will be at the convenience of the family.
Arrangements by Miller Funeral Services.
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Francis J. Knauer, retired carpenter
Franics J. “Tweet” Knauer, 78, of Millsboro and formerly of Baltimore, Md., died Thursday, May 29, 2008, at home.
Francis was a retired carpenter with Local 101 in Baltimore. He also loved to do yard work.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Frank and Teresa Knauer; his brother, Robert J. Knauer; and two sons, Francis J. Knauer Jr. and Lt. Gerald T. Knauer, a former Baltimore City firefighter.
He is survived by his wife of 58 years, Betty Jo Bogle Knauer; a daughter, Elisabeth “Betsy” Hires and her husband Richard of Salem, N.J.; a sister, Maryalice Schmidt of Lufton, S.C.; five grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren.
Services were held at Watson Funeral Home, Millsboro, with interment private.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Compassionate Care Hospice, 31038 Country Garden Blvd. Suite D2, Dagsboro, DE 19939.
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Jose Americo Viana, retired banker
Jose Americo Viana, 76, of Rehoboth Beach, died suddenly Sunday, June 1, 2008, at Beebe Medical Center in Lewes.
Mr. Viana, formerly of Vienna, Va., retired to the shore area in 1997 with his wife of 46 years, Monica Silva Viana.
Mr. Viana lived the American dream after arriving in the United States in 1958 from Brazil. He embodied the virtues of hard work, pursuit of education and self-determination to raise a family and build a successful career.
His career began in Brazil with his father’s agricultural business and once in the United States his career moved into the banking industry, concluding in Washington, D.C., in 1995 with the Inter-American Development Bank as an export finance officer.
In his retirement, he was a strong supporter of the Republican Party and supported his wife’s efforts with local charities and community outreach programs.
In addition to his wife, he is survived by his son Alexandre Viana and his wife Kari Ann; grandson Alexander Americo Viana; granddaughter Gabriella Victoria Viana; two sisters, Maria Edna and Eliane; and four brothers, Joao, Alberto, Carlos and Delano.
In addition to his parents, Raimundo Viana and Maria Jose Silveira Viana, he was predeceased by his sister, Fatima and two brothers, Raimundo and Pedro.
A Memorial Mass will be celebrated at 11 a.m., Saturday, June 7, at St. Edmond’s Catholic Church, King Charles Avenue and Laurel Street, Rehoboth Beach. Interment will be private.
Arrangements are being handled by Parsell Funeral Enterprises Inc., Lewes.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions be made to St. Edmond’s Catholic Church, King Charles Avenue and Laurel Street, Rehoboth Beach DE 19971, or to Beebe Medical Center Foundation, 424 Savannah Road, Lewes, DE 19958.
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Mary T. Sychterz, paint company retiree
Mary T. Sychterz, 83, of Long Neck, formerly of Reading, Pa., died Saturday, May 31, 2008, at Beebe Medical Center in Lewes, where she had been a patient for one day.
She was the wife of Stanley J. Sychterz. She was preceded in death by a husband, Sgt. Maj. Henry E. McCarty; and three sisters, Nicholina and Santina Julian and Theresa Julian Cantoni.
Mrs. Sychterz was the daughter of the late Nicholas Julian and Carmella Marmentello Julian.
Mary had been employed for many years by Glidden Paint Company in Reading.
Along with her husband Stanley, Mary is also survived by a son, Harry McCarty Jr. and his wife Joanne of Reading; a daughter, Julianne Hamaker and her husband Donald Sr. of Lewes; stepsons, Guy Sychterz and his wife Penny, and Jeff Sychterz and his wife Linda, all of Reading; six grandchildren, Patricia Paul and husband George of Lee, Mass., Dennis McCarty and wife Lydia of Reading, Timothy McCarty of Boulder, Colo., Matthew McCarty of Reading, David Manwiller of Reading, Donald Hamaker Jr, of Lewes; five stepgranddaughters, Carly and Jenna Sychterz, Deidra Angstadt, Dorothy Stubblebein and Stephanie Schlieve; three stepgrandsons, Michael Sychterz, and Joseph and Duane Hamaker; 18 great-grandchidlren; two sisters, Margaret Petricoin and Rose Cataldi; and a brother, Joseph Julian and his wife Carmen.
Mrs. Sychterz will be cremated at Melson Funeral Services, Long Neck. Burial will be at the discretion of the family in Gethsemane Cemetery, Laureldale, Pa.
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Capt. Marvin Schmeck, retired boat captain
Capt. Marvin Schmeck, 76, of Rehoboth Beach, died peacefully Friday, May 30, 2008, at his home. His wife, daughter, faithful dog Goober, and dear friends Fran Krisher and Pam Hoffman were there to throw off the dock lines one last time as he sailed off with his Savior.
During the two weeks prior to his passing he was blessed by the calls and visits of many friends and family and he delighted in being able to tell them “Goodbye and I love you.”
He was born Aug. 4, 1931, in Reinholds, Pa., the son of the late Whylma Steinmetz.
Capt. Marvin worked as a young man at laying brick and block. He enjoyed traveling and hunting with his family to Wyoming and Alaska in the 1960s and 1970s. But his love for fishing led him to the sea and he ran the charter boats “Partytyme” and the “Indian.”
After that he helped his son-in-law Pete Floyd build the “Skipjack” in 1983 in Key West, Fla,, and they were partners in that until Capt. Marvin began running fishing and whale watch cruises at Fisherman’s Wharf and had a dinner cruise boat named the “Lewes Princess.”
After retiring from the sea, he worked for Grotto Pizza delivering from Dewey to Milton. He also enjoyed hunting and just being with his many friends.
He is survived by his wife of 28 years, Anita; his daughter Donna and her husband Pete Floyd of Lewes; Donna’s mother Florence Schmeck of Lititz, Pa.; his sisters, Helen Diffenderfer of Lititz and Arlene Weidman of Manheim, Pa., one brother, Claude Steinmetz also of Lititz; stepsons Craig and Doug Krisher of Allentown, Pa.; and Craig’s sons, Kyle and Tyler.
A memorial service and celebration of his life will be held at 7 p.m., Monday, June 16, at the Parsell Funeral Homes & Crematorium, Atkins-Lodge Chapel, 16961 Kings Hwy., Lewes, where friends may call one hour prior to services.
Burial will be private. Please omit flowers. Memorial tributes in Capt. Marvin’s honor may be sent to Delaware Hospice Center, 100 Patriots Way, Milford DE 19963 or to the SPCA, 22918 DuPont Blvd., Georgetown, DE 19947.
06/06/08
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Bayard Holleger Sr., postal service retiree
Gen. Bayard Holleger Sr., 76, of Milford, died Sunday, June 1, 2008, in Beebe Medical Center, Lewes.
He was born July 17, 1931, in Milford, son of the late Willard J. Holleger and Letha Downes Holleger.
Gen. Holleger retired from the Delaware National Guard in 1980 after 32 years of service.
He attended many military training schools during his career including serving at the Pentagon and attending the Command and General Staff College at Ft. Leavenworth, Kan., where he graduated with honors after retiring with the rank of colonel.
He was awarded the honorary rank of brigadier general by the governor of the state of Delaware.
Gen. Holleger was also a member of the Delaware National Guard Retired Officers Association.
He was employed by the U.S. Postal Service and retired as a letter carrier after 32 years.
When his sons were young, he was actively involved through all stages of the Boy Scouts and Little League baseball.
He was always a proud and devoted father and grandfather.
Gen. Holleger was a member of the Avenue United Methodist Church, Milford.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his two brothers, James D. Holleger and Richard Holleger.
He is survived by his wife of 57 years, Julia; three sons, Bayard Holleger Jr. and his wife Denise of Rehoboth, Brian Holleger and his wife Sheila of Smyrna, and Randy Holleger of Norristown, Pa.; seven granddaughters, Kelly Holleger of Wilmington, Shannon Holleger Santos and her husband Ricky and their three children, Kimberly, Jose and Giovany of Cheswold, Laura Holleger of Smyrna, Victoria Feddon and her husband Mark of Ft. Lauderdale, Fla., Mary Holleger, Dianne Holleger and Elizabeth Holleger, all of Norristown, Pa.; two grandsons, Paul Holleger and John Holleger of Norristown, Pa.; and many nieces and nephews.
Funeral services will be noon, Saturday, June 7, in the Avenue United Methodist Church, 20 N. Church St., Milford, where friends may call after 11 a.m.
Interment will be in Milford Community Cemetery, Milford.
Flowers will be accepted or contributions may be made to Avenue United Methodist Church, 20 N. Church St., Milford. Arrangements handled by Berry-Short Funeral Home, Milford.
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Virginia M. Osowski, restaurant hostess
Virginia “Ginny” M. Osowski, 86, of Millsboro and formerly of Wilmington, passed away Monday, June 2, 2008, at the Renaissance Health Care Center in Millsboro.
She was born in Wilmington, daughter to the late Dominick and Domenica D’Alizio Palmarella.
She was a retired restaurant hostess for the Dinner Bell, the Lamp Post and Bob Evans Restaurants, all in the Rehoboth area.
Ginny was preceded in death by her husband, Walter J. Osowski, in 1992.
She is survived by her son, William J. Osowski (Jacqueline) of Smyrna; her daughter, Lonnie Brown of Rehoboth Beach; her brother, Ernest Palmarella of Wilmington; her sister, Lena O’Toole (John) of Wilmington; two grandchildren, Ed Brown (Maureen) of Rehoboth Beach and Tara Brown of Rehoboth Beach; three great-grandchildren, Connor, Jordan and Nolan Brown; and many nieces and nephews.
A memorial Mass will be held at noon, Friday, June 6, at St. Edmond’s Catholic Church, King Charles Avenue and Laurel Street, Rehoboth Beach, where friends may call after 11 a.m.
In lieu of flowers the family suggests memorial contributions in Ginny’s memory to Meals on Wheels of Rehoboth Beach, 32409 Lewes-Georgetown Hwy., Lewes, DE 19958.
Arrangements by Melson Funeral Services of Long Neck.
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Richard Allen Pyle Jr., owned contracting firm
Richard Allen Pyle, Jr., 44, of Millsboro, died Sunday, June 1, 2008, at his residence.
He was born Dec. 13, 1963, in Wilmington, son of the late Richard Allen Pyle Sr. and Patricia A. Waller of Augusta, Ga.
Mr. Pyle was a contractor in the home building industry. Most recently he owned and operated Your Future Construction company. Previously he had worked for Doug Hedley and Ronnie Coffin and for K. Hovnanian as a contractor. He also had worked as a mechanic at VJ’s Foreign Cars in Bear.
He enjoyed cooking; his specialty was creating marinades. He once worked as a cook at the Crab Barn.
In addition to his father, he was preceded in death by his stepfather, Emmitt Waller, and his grandmother, Charlotte Stubbins.
In addition to his mother and her companion, Robert McLoughlin, he is survived by his companion, Athena Keesser of Camden; two sons, Christopher A. Pyle of Long Neck and Jonathan Pyle and his wife Tesa of Millsboro; a daughter, Mechelle Dawn Pyle of Camden; granddaughter, Madeleine Marie Pyle; his only beloved sister, Barbara M. Miller and her husband Sean of Millsboro; three nephews, Matthew and Timothy Johns, both of Millsboro, and Elijah Majors of Milton, Fla.; his grandmother, Ruth Beck of Middletown; his grandfather, Karl Stubbins of Millsboro; and numerous aunts, uncles and cousins.
A memorial service will be held at 3 p.m., Friday, June 6, at Parsell Funeral Homes & Crematorium, Atkins-Lodge Chapel, 16961 Kings Highway, Lewes with the Rev. Jeffrey Ross officiating. Friends may call at the funeral home beginning at 2 p.m.
Arrangements are being handled by Parsell Funeral Enterprises Inc., Lewes.
The family suggests memorial contributions be made to Delaware Hospice Center, 100 Patriots Way, Milford, DE 19963.
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John Kenneth West, retired truck driver
John Kenneth West, 82, of Dagsboro, passed away Sunday, June 1, 2008, at Atlantic Shores Nursing & Rehabilitation Center, Millsboro.
Mr. West was born April 22, 1926, in Laurel, to the late John and Elizabeth Short West.
He was an over the road truck driver for Perdue Inc. for 20 years.
Mr. West attended the Bayshore Community Church in Gumboro. He loved fishing, and being and working outdoors.
Mr. West is survived by his wife of 59 years, Betty Revel West; a daughter, Janet Hudson of Dagsboro; and a granddaughter, Sheila Hudson of Millsboro.
Services will be held at 1 p.m., Friday, June 6, at the Watson Funeral Home, 211 S. Washington St., Millsboro, where friends may call at noon. Pastor Jeff Hudson will officiate the service. Interment will be in Prince Georges Cemetery in Dagsboro.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that contributions be made to the Delaware Hospice Center, 100 Patriots Way, Milford, DE 19963 or to the American Diabetes Association, PO Box 11454, Alexandria, VA 22312.
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Mildred G. Hayes, DuPont retiree
Mildred G. Hayes, 86, of Millsboro, passed away Sunday, June 1, 2008, at Harrison Senior Living in Georgetown. She was formerly of New Castle, Wilmington and Lewes.
Ms. Hayes is the daughter of the late Howard and Mary Adel DeNight.
She retired as a lab technician from the DuPont Experimental Lab in 1984. She was a charter member of Calvary Assembly of God Church in Wilmington, where she served in many capacities including Vacation Bible School director and Sunday school teacher.
Aside from her parents, she was predeceased by her husband of 54 years, George H. Hayes, and her brother, Woodard H. DeNight.
She is survived by her daughters and sons-in-laws, Sandra and Frank Hoesch and Beverly and Joe Cook; one grandson, Donald Cook; her brother and sister-in-law, Howard and Eleanor DeNight; and sisters-in-law, Dorothy DeNight and Sarah Garrett.
A service to celebrate her life was held at the Chapel at Gracelawn Cemetery, Wilmington, with burial in Gracelawn.
06/10/08
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Amabile ‘‘Mabel” Berti, diehard Redskins fan
Amabile ‘‘Mabel” Berti, 108, of Solomons Island, Md., and a frequent visitor to Angola By The Bay, died May 24, 2008.
Amabile Berti was born July 15, 1899, in Arrezzo, Italy, and immigrated to New York City in December 1922, via Ellis Island, with her husband Torquato and two very young sons, Ferruccio Berti and Joseph Berti. She and her family lived in Manhattan for a short period of time and were also blessed with two daughters, Catherine Lupari and Eleanor Palemine, both born in the U.S.A.
She lived on Staten Island, N.Y., for approximately 40 years before moving to Maryland with her family. She worked as a seamstress for Capital Sewing, and retired from the garment industry in 1969.
She would regularly visit her son Ferruccio and daughter-in-law Anna at Angola By The Bay in Lewes for extended periods of time. She was very popular in the community and would often be seen preoccupied with her favorite pasttime activity, crabbing at the community dock. Her preferred crabbing destination was on a property overlooking Rehoboth Bay that she referred to as Anna Banana beach, which is now owned by Mr. Tunnell, a heavy contributor to local charities.
While in Delaware, Mabel, aka Nonna, enjoyed playing bingo in the community clubhouse. People still remember very clearly her sudden outbursts during games in a strong Italian accent, “shake-a-doos-balls.”
At 108 years old, she was truly a diehard Redskins fan. In 2007, the Washington Hogettes visited her at the nursing home. Last year, at 107 years of age, Daniel Snyder, owner of the Redskins, offered her a limousine service to a Redskins game, but she declined the offer, as she preferred to stay at the nursing center.
For the past several years, she lived in Solomon’s Nursing Center and was crafting up until January 2008.
She had a very vibrant personality and was always the center of attention. She was a giving and loving person who would put her family and friends above herself.
She enjoyed visiting the casinos and playing the slot machines up until 2006. Her last trip was to Dover Downs in a family motor home.
To live a long and healthy life, follow her philosophy of longevity: drink red wine, use plenty of salt on your food, don’t drink water or eat fish (except for baccala, i.e. dried boneless cod), eat lots of potato chips and above all, cherish the company of friends and family.
She is survived by her four children, Ferruccio Berti and daughter-in-law Anna, Joseph Berti, Catherine Lupari and Eleanor Palemine; 13 grandchildren; 23 great-grandchildren; two great-great grandchildren; and many other loving family members and dear friends.
Officiating minister was the Rev. Dixon.
Interment was at Gate of Heaven Cemetery in Silver Spring.
Memorial contributions may be made to Solomons Nursing Center, Attn: Activities Department, P.O. Box 1509, Solomons, MD 20688-1509.
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Sarah J. ‘Sally’ Johnson, Little League coach
Sarah J. “Sally” Johnson, 63, of Georgetown, passed away on Friday, June 6, 2008, in Beebe Medical Center, Lewes.
Ms. Johnson was born in Philadelphia, the daughter of the late Richard J. and Anna Washington Greer.
She worked with the Division of Child Support for the state of Delaware for 25 years, retiring in 1985.
Ms. Johnson was a past member of Loyal Order of Moose Lodge 646 in Cool Spring.
She also coached softball for several years for Georgetown and Milton Little Leagues.
Ms. Johnson devoted her life to taking care of her children and family.
She is survived by a son, James R. Greer of Georgetown; a son, George J. Johnson and his wife Holly of Holley, N.Y.; a brother, Richard J. Greer II and his wife Diane of Georgetown; a sister, Debra Hazzard of Long Neck; and a grandson, Hunter James Greer.
Services will be Tuesday, June 10, in the chapel of Short Funeral Services, 609 E. Market St., Georgetown, where friends may call after noon.
Instead of flowers, donations may be sent to the Georgetown S.P.C.A., 22918 Dupont Highway, Georgetown, DE 19947; or to the Milton Little League, P.O. Box 175, Milton, DE 19968.
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Dessie E. Carey, homemaker
Dessie E. Carey, 90, of Milton, passed away Friday, June 6, 2008, in Beebe Medical Center, Lewes.
Mrs. Carey was born in Angola, daughter of the late John E. and Jennie Wells Clifton.
She was a homemaker. She enjoyed flower gardening and arranging flowers. Mrs. Carey attended Milton Wesleyan Church.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Roscoe C. Carey, in 1989.
She is survived by her daughter, Bertha Enlow and her husband Murlyn of Kokomo, Ind.; two grandchildren, Keith Wilhelm and his wife Lisa and Brenda Piraino and her husband Frank; and seven great-grandsons.
Funeral services will be at 1 p.m. Wednesday, June 11, in the chapel of Short Funeral Services, 416 Federal St., Milton, where friends may call one hour prior.
Flowers will be accepted or contributions may be made to the Wesleyan Church, Union Street, Milton.
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Patricia S. Whittington, UD staffer
Patricia S. “Trish” Whittington, 50, of Newark, went home to be with the Lord on Wednesday, June 4, 2008. Trish passed away from complications from a long illness at the Johns Hopkins hospital in Baltimore, Md.
Trish was born in Wilmington on Feb. 20, 1958, and lived in Newark for the past 30 years.
Trish is a 1981 graduate of the University of Delaware and worked for the University of Delaware for the past 25 years.
Trish was a member of Immaculate Conception Parish in Elkton, Md.
Trish loved sailing and spent much of her time with friends and family as a member of the Northeast River Yacht Club in Northeast, Md.
Trish is survived by the loves of her life, her daughter, Kelly and son, Bryan; her mother, Zelma of Lewes; and brothers, Michael of Lewes and Stephen of Wilmington; and her best friend, David Whittington of Newark.
Family and friends are invited to attend Trish’s viewing from 6 to 9 p.m., Tuesday, June 10, at the Beeson Funeral Home of Newark, 2053 Pulaski Hwy, Newark.
Mass of Christian Burial in celebration of Trish’s life will be held at 10 a.m., Wednesday, June 11, at the Immaculate Conception Church, Bow Street in Elkton. Interment will follow at the Gracelawn Memorial Park, New Castle.
In lieu of flowers, please send contributions to The Pulmonary Hypertension Association, 801 Roeder Rd., Suite 400, Silver Spring, MD 20910; or at www.phassociation.org (800-748-7274).
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Giles David Taylor, Milford resident
Giles David Taylor, 70, of Milford, passed away at his home on Saturday, May 31, 2008.
He was preceded in death by his father, William Taylor; brother, Harold Nickols; sister, Shelby Sarver; and a stepsister, Joyce Ann Gunkel.
He is survived by his mother, Stella Blessing of Milford; wife, Jeraldine Taylor of Andersville; three daughters, Bessie Taylor of Harrington, Tammie and Kathy of Florida; sister, Shirley Garrett of Milford; two stepbrothers, Russell Blessing of Milford and Bruce Blessing of Milton; two stepsisters, Barbara Blessing of Houston and Bonnie Morton of Lincoln; and several nieces and nephews.
Burial will be private. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Delaware Hospice Center, 100 Patriots Way, Milford, DE 19963.
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Grace M. Salvatore, volunteer
Grace M. Guarrera Salvatore, 93, of Lewes, died Thursday, June 5, 2008, at Beebe Medical Center in Lewes. She was the daughter of the late Anthony and Rosario Storniolo Guarrera.
She was a resident of the Lewes area since 1996, coming from the Upper Darby, Pa. area of Philadelphia. While in the Philadelphia area, Grace was involved with the American Cancer Society, cutting and sewing dressings for cancer patients. She made casseroles for the patients in St. John’s Hospital of Philadelphia and did sewing and helped with charity events for the Little Sisters of the Poor. She worked as a part-time saleslady for John Wanamaker’s Department Stores in Philadelphia for 17 years.
Grace was an active member of the Lewes Senior Center and availed herself of all of its services. She was a devout Catholic, dedicating herself to prayer, especially the rosary. She loved to crochet and many of her family members have handmade stars on their Christmas trees. She enjoyed traveling and entertaining her family. She was a member of St. Jude the Apostle Catholic Church, Lewes.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Albert J. Salvatore, who died in 1981, and one brother, Rosario Guarrera .
She is survived by her two sons, Dr. Michael A. Salvatore and his wife Judith of Milton, and Anthony Salvatore and family of Springfield, Pa.; her sister, Lucy Grasso of Naples, Fla.; her sister-in-law, Ronnie Guarrera of Monroe Township, N.J.; her brother, Larry Cacciola of N. Wildwood, N.J.; and her granddaughters, Alicia Link Salvatore of California and Laurea Link Salvatore of Boston, Mass.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11 a.m., Tuesday, June 10, in St. Jude the Apostle Catholic Church, Route 1 North at Five Points, Lewes, where family will receive friends one hour prior. Interment will be held at 11 a.m., Wednesday, June 11, at Saints Peter & Paul Cemetery, 1600 S. Sproul Road, Springfield, Pa.
The family suggests memorial contributions to St. Jude the Apostle Catholic Church, 152 Tulip Drive, Lewes, DE 19958; or Lewes Senior Center, 310 Nassau Park Road, Lewes, DE 19958
Arrangements by Parsell Funeral Enterprises Inc., Lewes.
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Richard A. Burton Sr., postal service retiree
Richard Allen Burton Sr., 63, of Lincoln, died suddenly Thursday, June 5, 2008, at Bayhealth Center - Milford. He was the son of the late Luther Jackson Burton and Amy Cathleen Smith Burton.
Mr. Burton was a veteran of the Navy Seebees and was a member of the VFW, Milford. He retired from the U.S. Postal Service in 1992 after 23 years’ service as a mechanic. He loved NASCAR and his favorite drivers were Jimmy Johnson and Jeff Gordon. He enjoyed restoring old cars.
He is survived by his wife, Ann Marie Knighton Burton; a daughter, Lyn Marie Frampton and her fiancé Ron of Harrington; a son, Richard Allen Burton Jr. and his wife Julie of Port Angeles, Wash.; his grandchildren Sean, Steven, Amanda and Sam; a sister, Shirley Davidson of Yakima, Wash.; a brother, Ray Burton of Princeton, W.Va.; his best friends, Janice and Larry Brittingham and Alice Jury; his best dog Sadie; and a large extended family.
A Celebration of Life service was held at the Parsell Funeral Homes & Crematorium, Atkins-Lodge Chapel, Lewes. Burial was private.
In lieu of flowers contributions are suggested to Home Of The Brave Foundation, 6632 Sharps Road, Milford, DE 19963.
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Rita Ann Lawson, played at White House
Rita Anne Addesso Lawson, 89, of Rehoboth Beach, passed away Saturday, May 31, 2008, at Beebe Medical Center in Lewes. She was born January 14, 1919, in New York City, N.Y., daughter of the late Frank and Virginia Soldineri Addesso.
Mrs. Lawson was raised in Brooklyn, N.Y. She was a longtime resident of Rockville, Md., and Rehoboth Beach. Her love of music took her to Washington, D.C., where she led her trio of musicians in performances at the Statler Hilton Hotel as well as John F. Kennedy’s White House in the early 1960s. She continued to play piano at the Congressional Country Club and other venues throughout the Washington area.
She was a member of the American Federation of Musicians and a longstanding member of St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Norbeck, Md.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Herbert A. Lawson, three sisters and two brothers. She is survived by her son, Scott H. Lawson of Rehoboth Beach; her former daughter-in-law Anita S. Lawson of Severna Park, Md.; and two granddaughters, Catherine and Sara Lawson, both of Severna Park.
A Memorial Mass was celebrated at St. Edmond’s Catholic Church, King Charles Avenue and Laurel Street, Rehoboth Beach, with interment private.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions be made to the Make A Wish Foundation, 1601 Concord Pike, Wilmington, DE 19803.
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Guinevere J. Tjossem, retired assistant
Guinevere Jeanne Barnhart Tjossem, 86, of Lewes, died Sunday, June 8, 2008, at Delaware Hospice Center in Milford.
Mrs. Tjossem had served as an administrative assistant for many years in the federal government. She was also a veteran, having served in the Navy Waves.
She was predeceased by her husband, Theodore D. Tjossem.
She is survived by four children: three daughters, Linda T. Sullivan, Jill A. Tjossem and Stacy E. Tjossem, and a son, Theodore K. Tjossem; as well as a granddaughter, Siri K. Watts.
All services will be private. In lieu of flowers contributions are suggested to Delaware Hospice Center, 100 Patriots Way, Milford, DE 19963.
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Mary Louise O’Brien, title searcher
Mary Louise “Lulu” O’Brien, 63, of Lewes, passed away on Wednesday, June 4, 2008, at Beebe Medical Center in Lewes.
She was born Dec. 15, 1944, in Bethesda, Md., daughter of the late Robert Emmet and Elizabeth Virginia Franklin O’Brien.
Lulu and her husband of 11 years, Leonard P. Kober, relocated to the beach five years ago from Rockville, Md.
Lulu had worked in real estate conducting title searches.
She was an avid antique shopper, gardener, decorator and bargain hunter. She enjoyed iced tea, Coca-Cola and Monday burger night in Lewes.
She loved playing cards, especially bunko and solitaire; she controlled the TV remote 24-7; she loved red shoes, Cadillacs and fast cars.
She enjoyed baking - brownies were a favorite. She was a member of St. Edmond’s Catholic Church. LuLu will always be with her loved ones: “Our eyes see what our hearts cannot believe.”
In addition to her beloved husband Leonard, Lulu is survived by four daughters, Kathleen Haden and her husband Jess of Charlottesville, Va., Karen Ruppel-Mullervy and her husband Colin of Crownsville, Md., Jeanne Lange and her husband Steve of Laguna Niguel, Calif., and Diana Kober of Owings Mills, Md.; two sons, Patrick Kober and his wife Mary Beth of Oil City, Pa., and Timothy Kober of Raleigh, N.C.; two grandsons, Emmet P. and John Carr Hayden; two sisters, Betty J. Linthicum of Rehoboth Beach and Patricia C. Meier of Virginia Beach, Va.
A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated by the Rev. James Downs at St. Edmond’s Catholic Church, Rehoboth Beach. Interment was private.
The family suggests memorial contributions be made in her name to Beebe Medical Center, Cardiac Care Unit, 424 Savannah Road, Lewes, DE 19958.
06/13/08
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Grace A. Lehman, was Lewes BPW member
Grace A. Lehman, 69, of Lewes, passed away from this world Tuesday, June 10, 2008, at the Delaware Hospice Center in Milford after a two-year fight against cancer.
She was born Sept. 30, 1938, in Wilmington, daughter of the late Carl and Ellen Jeanes Moyle.
Mrs. Lehman was raised in New Castle, graduating from St. Peter’s High School in 1956. She relocated to Lewes with her husband in 1963.
She was a member of St. Peter’s Episcopal Church where she served as treasurer for a number of years. She also worked for and later was a member of the Lewes Board of Public Works during the 1980s. She also worked for the First Omni Bank in Millsboro, retiring as assistant vice president, accounting department.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her sister, Ellen Clymer.
She is survived by her loving husband of 50 years, John H. Lehman; two sons, John H. Lehman Jr. and his wife Suk Hi of Seoul, Korea, and David A. Lehman and his wife Kelly of Selbyville; five grandchildren, Charles, Sonya and Samuel of John’s family, and Braedan and Carter of David’s family; and two sisters, Carol Morin and Marlene Helms, both of Bullhead City, Ariz.
A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m., Saturday, June 14, at St. Peter’s Episcopal Church, Second and Market streets, Lewes.
Interment will be private. Arrangements are being handled by Parsell Funeral Homes & Crematorium, Lewes.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions be made to St. Peter’s Church Capital Program, 211 Mulberry St., P.O. Box 464, Lewes, DE 19958; or to Delaware Hospice Center, 100 Patriots Way, Milford, DE 19963.
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Ellen E. Todd, Millsboro homemaker
Ellen E. Todd of Millsboro died Wednesday, June 11, 2008, at Harrison Senior Living in Georgetown.
Ellen was born in Millsboro, the daughter of the late Herman and Bertie Lowe Mitchell.
She was a homemaker and enjoyed traveling and vacationing in Myrtle Beach and spending time with her children and grandchildren.
She was a member of St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Georgetown.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Harold Todd, in 1992 and a sister, Dorothy Morris.
She is survived by her four children, Jerry Todd and his wife Pauline of Millsboro, Penny Shockley and her husband Howard of Chapel Hill, N.C., Patricia Carmine and her husband Elias of Millsboro and Ron Todd of Decatur, Ga.; four sisters, Dolly James, Norma Lee Talley, Louise Conaway and Sally Conaway, all of Georgetown; five grandchildren, Wayne Todd, Jeff Shockley, Shane McCarty, Tracey McCabe and Todd Fleetwood; and several great-grandchildren.
Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m., Saturday, June 14, in the chapel of Short Funeral Services, 609 E. Market St., Georgetown, where friends may call after 10 a.m.
Interment will be in St. Paul’s Episcopal Church Cemetery, Georgetown.
Contributions may be made to Delaware Hospice, 100 Patriots Way, Milford, DE 19963.
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John V. ‘Jack’ Clark, retired writer
John V. “Jack” Clark, 83, of Monrovia, Md., formerly of Milton, died Wednesday, June 11, 2008, at Kline Hospice House in Mt. Aire, Md.
Jack was born in Tacoma Park, Md., the son of the late John A. and Arlene West Clark.
He was a veteran of the U.S. Navy. He was a technical writer for the Civil Service Naval Ordinance Lab in Silver Spring, Md., retiring in 1978. He was a member of the American Legion in Milton, the Milton Lions Club and Milton Volunteer Fire Department and Sandy Springs Volunteer Fire Department. He enjoyed gardening, fishing and refinishing furniture.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister, Marie Holton.
He is survived by his wife Rosemary Clark; four children, John G. Clark of Shrewsbury, Pa., Kathy Drury of Monrovia, Susan Yeilding of Mukilteo, Wash. and Jode Mc Laughlin of Phoenix, Ariz.; 11 grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren.
Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m., Saturday, June 14, in the chapel of Short Funeral Services, 416 Federal St., Milton, where friends may call Friday, June 13, from 7 to 9 p.m. Interment will be in Odd Fellows Cemetery, Milton.
Contributions may be made to Delaware Hospice, 100 Patriots Way, Milford, DE 19963.
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Michael W. Hudson, U.S. intelligence retiree
Michael W. Hudson, 54, went to his heavenly home to be with our Lord Jesus Christ Thursday, May 29, 2008. Michael had fought a long and courageous battle with cancer. He passed from his earthly home in Casa Grande, Ariz., surrounded by his loving family.
Michael was born April 13, 1954, in Milford. He was preceded in death by his parents, Wilmer Robert Hudson Jr. and Doris Adams Hudson Howell.
He served our country in the Military Intelligence Branch of the U.S. Army and retired from that career in
1992. Michael was exceptionally patriotic and proud to be an American. Subsequent to his military career he worked in nonprofit agencies benefiting the cause of child welfare and serving as an advocate for the underprivileged.
Michael was a devoted husband, father, brother and friend. He lived his life with integrity and honor. He had a passionate and faithful relationship with our Lord Jesus Christ. His loving, caring and gentle spirit touched the hearts of many. In addition to those gifts, he possessed an awesome sense of humor.
He is survived by his wife of 24 years, Debbie Bryant-Hudson, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Leonard E. Bryant of Columbia, Ky.; a daughter, Alison Hudson Schrader of Rehoboth Beach; a sister, Cheryl Abele of Layton, Utah; two brothers, Robert Hudson of Lincoln and Richard Hudson of Christmas, Fla., and a multitude of extended family and friends.
A celebration of Michael’s life will be held at Trinity Mennonite Church at 4334 West Vista Ave, Glendale, Ariz., at 6:30 p.m., Sunday, June 15.
Internment with full military honors will be at 9 a.m., Monday, June 16, at the National Memorial Cemetery of Arizona (Pinnacle Peak & Cave Creek in Phoenix). The funeral procession will depart Trinity Mennonite Church at 7:30 a.m.
Flowers may be sent to the Chapel of the Chimes, 7924 N. 59th Ave, Glendale, AZ 85301.
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06/17/08
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Beverly A. Jordan, Estee Lauder employee
Beverly A. Jordan, of Lewes, died Saturday, June 14, 2008, following a brief illness, at Westminster Health Center, Dover.
Ms. Jordan was born June 27, 1937, in Bridgeton, N.J., to the late Milton and Agnes Pettit Moore.
She was an employee of the Estee Lauder Cosmetic Co. Store in Lewes.
Ms. Jordan enjoyed traveling, and going to the beach.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her first husband, Harry L. Doughty Sr. in 1987; second husband, Ivy S. Jordan in 1993; and her sister, Diane Sutter.
She is survived by five children, Harry Doughty and his wife Debra of Dover, Betty Lorenzetti and her husband John of Egg Harbor Township, N.J., Donna Henry and her husband James of Horsham, Pa., Kathleen Doughty of New Jersey, and Douglas Doughty of Lewes; four stepsons, Stephen, Anthony, Mark, and Michael Jordan; 13 grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren.
Funeral services will be held at 8 p.m., Tuesday, June 17, in Torbert Funeral Chapel South, 1145 E. Lebanon Road, Dover, where friends may call one hour prior.
Interment will be in St. Augustine Memorial Park, St. Augustine, Fla.
Instead of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions be made to Westminster Village Health Center, 1175 McKee Road, Dover, DE 19904.
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Thomas Marshall, football coach
Thomas Marshall, 73, of Lewes, passed away Sunday, June 15, 2008 at his residence.
Tom was born Jan. 23, 1935, to the late James and Bertha Marshall of Lewes. Tom was a graduate of Lewes High School. He attended Wesley College and graduated from the University of Detroit. He served four years in the Coast Guard in Cape May, N.J. Coaching football brought Tom to Long Island, N.Y., where he coached football at St. John’s University, Hofstra University, the Merchant Marine Academy, Nassau Community College and CW Post College. After many years serving as a coordinator at CW Post he became head football coach.
Tom returned to Lewes in 1998 where he enjoyed attending football games, running a football clinic and playing golf. He also found the time to write three books on football. He was a member of the Lewes Lions Club and also cochair of the Lewes Garden Tour.
He is survived by his wife Carolyn, his daughters Denise Polansky and son-in-law Corey, Debra Carpluk, and Jennifer Marshall and seven grandchildren.
Mass of Christian Burial will be offered at 11 a.m., Tuesday, June 17, at St. Jude the Apostle Catholic Church, Route 1 at Five Points, Lewes, where friends may call at the church one hour prior to services. Burial will be private at the Delaware Veterans Cemetery, Millsboro.
In lieu of flowers the family suggests memorial contributions be made to Delaware Hospice Center, 100 Patriots Way, Milford, DE 19963 or to the Tunnell Cancer Center, 424 Savannah Road, Lewes, DE 19958.
Arrangements are by Parsell Funeral Enterprises Inc., Lewes.
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David J. Brannon Sr., decorated veteran
David J. Brannon Sr., 84, of Newark, died on Wednesday, June 11, 2008, at his home.
Mr. Brannon was born in Penns Grove, N.J. on June 4, 1924, a son of the late Harry Brannon and Veronica O’Neil Brannon.
A respected veteran of the U.S. Navy, he proudly served his country at Pearl Harbor and was highly skilled as both a gunner’s mate and a member of the UDT (Underwater Demo Team). In civilian life, he was employed for many years as a machinist with the former Electric Hose and Rubber Company in Wilmington. Mr. Brannon was an avid outdoorsman, excelling in hunting and fishing. He also greatly enjoyed gardening, boating and trips to the beach. Most of all, he was a devoted family man who delighted in spending time with his beloved wife, children and grandchildren.
He is survived by his loving wife of 62 years, Winifred Bain Brannon; three children, Patricia M. Carl and husband, Charles R., of New Castle; David J. Brannon Jr. and wife, Lynn, of Milton and Joyce W. Brannon of Havre de Grace, Md.; six grandchildren, Charles, Brian and wife Karen, Jennifer, Kelly, Charles, and Katie; and three great-granddaughters Charli, Kaitlyn and Cassidy W. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a brother, Harry Brannon; and a sister, Elva Beeson.
Friends may call from noon to 1 p.m., Friday, June 20, at the Spicer-Mullikin Funeral Home, 1000 N. DuPont Parkway, New Castle. A committal service will follow at 2 p.m. in the chapel of Delaware Veterans Memorial Cemetery, 2465 Chesapeake City Road, Bear.
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Gary Lee Bliss, Vietnam veteran
Gary Lee Bliss, 58, of Oak Orchard, near Millsboro, passed away on June 11, 2008, in his home.
Gary was born on Feb. 1, 1950, in Corning, N.Y.
He was an electrician. Gary was a U.S. Army veteran of the Vietnam War and he was a member of the Oak Orchard-Riverdale American Legion Post 28.
Gary is survived by his wife, Marguerite “Taffy” Bricker; his parents, Lee and Wanda Davis Bliss of Millsboro; one son, Dean Bliss and his wife Norr Aarohi of Leesburg, Va.; one brother, David Bliss; six sisters, Helen Taylor, Susan Herbst, Mary Eddy, Janice Calloway, Judy Cook and Lauri DiFrancisco; two grandchildren, Kaya and Maggie Bliss; nieces, nephews, cousins, friends; and his beloved canine friends, Georgia and Casper.
Services will be private and at the convenience of the family.
Arrangements by Watson Funeral Home, Millsboro.
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John ‘Jack’ Vareha, La Roche retiree
John “Jack” Stephen Vareha, 62, of Lewes, passed away Thursday, June 12, 2008, in Beebe Medical Center, Lewes.
Mr. Vareha was born Jan. 18, 1939, in Mt. Holly, N.J., son of the late Joseph and Rose (Horvath) Vareha.
Jack grew up in the Trenton area with his siblings Elizabeth and Joseph. He met his wife Jean while working in New York and was married on Nov. 18, 1967.
Jack spent most of his life in Oak Ridge, N.J., where he lived for 28 years and raised his family.
He retired from La Roche Industries, based in Atlanta, Ga.
He relocated to Lewes in 1998 with his wife and his daughters soon followed in order to be near him.
Jack went on to various “retired” careers; most recently he served as a Pot Nets security guard.
He will be remembered by all who loved him for his dry sense of humor, compassion for animals and for the love of his family, especially his three grandchildren.
Jack is survived by his wife of 40 years, Jean Vareha; two daughters, Laura Schneider and her husband Jacob of Lewes and Penny Gross and her husband Joshua of Long Neck; three beloved grandchildren, Madeline Rose, Sydney Jay and Spencer John; his sister, Elizabeth Michalchuck; and his brother, Joseph Vareha, both of Trenton, N.J.
A memorial service will be 11 a.m., Saturday, June 21, in the Lutheran Church of Our Savior, 7 Bay Vista Road, Rehoboth Beach, with Pastor Donald C. Schaefer officiating.
Instead of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions be made to the Bassett Hound Rescue (BROOD), c/o John Warner, 15213 Clear Spring Road, Williamsport, MD 21795; or to the American Diabetes Foundation, 100 W. 10th St., Suite 1002, Wilmington, DE 19801.
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Albert G. Perron, retired sales executive
Albert G. Perron, 78, of Stuart, Fla., and Lewes, passed from this life on Thursday, June 12, 2008, in Christiana Care-Christiana Hospital, Newark.
Born Nov. 12, 1929, in Boston, he was the husband of Trish Perron and they were married for 57 years.
Al was honored to be a fourth-degree Knight of Columbus and honor guard and a Korean War veteran.
He retired as national sales executive for Beverage-Air, a commercial refrigeration bottling industry based in Spartanburg, S.C.
Al loved golf, boating, fishing, travel and spending time with his family.
He was an avid supporter of Special Olympics and ARC. He was a man with a great sense of humor, a talented artist, calm in the storm, a true friend and a devoted husband.
Al lived his life by the following philosophy, “As you wander on in life, whatever be your goal, keep your eye upon the donut, and not upon the hole.” For Al, the glass was always “half full.”
Al is survived by his loving wife, Trish; daughter, Susan Perron, of Foxboro, Mass.; daughter and son-in-law, Janis Hanwell and Stephen Pratt of Lewes; daughter and son-in-law, Michele and Robert Falvey of Orlando, Fla.; son and daughter-in-law, Ron and Flo Landry of Orrington, Maine; son, Albert J. Perron of Arcadia, Fla.; sister, Renee Aprille of Hyde Park, Mass.; four grandchildren, Lacey Hanwell, Dane Pratt and Chelsea and Katherine Falvey; niece and husband, Laurie and Mark Marsters and children Meghan, Emily and Grace; nieces Denise Aprille and Linda McDermott; and nephews Frank Aprille and George McDermott.
The family would like to thank everyone for their countless prayers and gestures of love for a man who touched so many lives. They would also like to recognize the incredible caring and compassion of the Christiana Hospital medical team in Newark.
A Memorial Mass of Christian Burial will be 11 a.m., Thursday, June 19, in St. Jude the Apostle Catholic Church, Route 1 at Five Points, Lewes. Private entombment will follow at Bethel Methodist Cemetery, Savannah Road, Lewes. Friends may call from 6 to 8 p.m., Wednesday, June 18, in the Parsell Funeral Homes & Crematorium, Atkins-Lodge Chapel, 16961 Kings Highway, Lewes. Instead of flowers, donations in his honor may be sent to Special Olympics, University of Delaware, 619 S. College Ave., Newark, DE 19716.
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Russell R. “Speedy” Benson, business owner
Russell R. “Speedy” Benson passed away Saturday, May 31, 2008, in Beebe Medical Center after a short illness.
Russell was born Aug. 31, 1924, in Lincoln.
He was the owner and operator of Benson’s Fuel Injection in Milton where he worked many years alongside of his wife of 58 years, Betty, who passed away in 2006. Russell was an avid trap shooter and enjoyed fishing and gardening. He was preceded in death by his parents, Elmer and Minnie Benson; his brothers, Ralph Benson and Leonard Benson; and his sister, Dorothy Rust.
Russell is survived by his son, David and his wife Lucy of Leon, Iowa; his daughter, Bonnie M. Benson of Lewes; and three sisters, Pearl Wadkins, Louise Webb and Mary Betty Peterman.
He will always be missed but not forgotten.
A memorial service will be 11 a.m. Saturday, June 21, in Conley’s Methodist Church, Lewes.
Instead of flowers, the family requests donations to Ducks Unlimited, P.O. Box 167, Milford, DE 19963; or the Milton Fire Co., 116 Front St., Milton, DE 19968.
Arrangements by Melson Funeral Services of Long Neck.
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Michael Rhodes-Burross, landscaper
Michael D. Rhodes-Burross, of Long Neck, passed away Friday, June 6, 2008, at home.
Mr. Burross was a landscaper.
Michael, known to many as Donnie and some closest to him as “Bumper,” was an avid car fan. He loved music, playing pool, landscaping and working outdoors. He loved to laugh and he was a “social bee” that enjoyed making new friends. Michael loved to talk on the phone so much that his family called him “the operator.” Life was sometimes difficult but now he is free. Michael will be sadly missed by his family and friends as he left us too soon.
He is survived by his parents, David and Kristen Rhodes-Burross of Long Neck; a son, Nicholas Burross and his mother Tara Mitchell of Philadelphia, Pa.;, maternal grandparents, (Butchie-Boy) Arthur L. Rhodes Jr. and his wife Nancy of Bressler, Pa., and Judith Miller of Harrisburg, Pa.; paternal grandmother, Imogene Glimpse of Sardis, Tenn,; two sisters, Jessica Burross of Savannah, Tenn., and Kelly-Linn Burross of Long Neck; five uncles, William Rhodes, Arthur Rhodes III, Michael Hoover, Steven Hoover and Larry Hoover; three aunts, his “Aunt Nimmy” Stacey Avery of Steelton, Pa., Lisa Burross and Teresa Clark; and a host of cousins, other relatives and friends.
A memorial service will be 11 a.m., Thursday, June 26, at the Prince of Peace Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Roman Catholic Church, 815 S. 2nd Street, Steelton, Pa.
A trust fund has been set up to take care of his son. The family asks for contributions to the account of Nicholas M. Burross Acct #61526390, c/o Wilmington Trust Company, Rodney Square North, 1100 N. Market St., Wilmington, DE 19890.
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Dorothy Short, Lioness Club member
Dorothy Travis Short, 95, of Milton, passed away Thursday, June 12, 2008, at Beebe Medical Center in Lewes.
Mrs. Short was a longstanding member of Epworth United Methodist Church in Rehoboth Beach. She also was a member of the Rehoboth Beach Lioness Club and a former member of Rebekah’s Lodge. She devoted her life to her children and family. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband Carl Short (1990); her son Travis Short; two grandsons, Steven Holland and Ralph Morgan; two sisters; and a brother.
She is survived by three daughters, Patricia Morgan and her husband Richard and Carol Holland, all of Millsboro, and Bonnie Schuyler and her husband Bill of Milton; three grandchildren, Lisa Sloan, John “JC” Holland and Laurie Morgan; three great-grandchildren, Carolyn Morgan, Joshua Morgan and Christopher Sloan; two great-great-grandchildren Daniel and Haven Morgan; nieces and nephews, Ronald DeLong, James Travis, Donald Travis, Pat Burton and Evelyn Roberts.
Services will be held at 11 a.m., Tuesday, June 17, at Epworth Methodist Cemetery, Henlopen Avenue, Rehoboth. The Rev. Jonathan Baker will officiate.
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Norman J. Wegemer, DuPont chemist
Norman J. Wegemer, 78 of Claymont, died Tuesday, June 10, 2008 at Kutz Nursing Home, Wilmington. A chemist for DuPont Co. at the Experimental Station, he received his bachelor’s degree from Lebanon Valley College and his master’s from the University of Delaware. A longtime member of Holy Rosary Catholic Church, he also earned his second-degree black belt in Chinese Kempo. An Army veteran, he served during the Korean War. Besides his parents, he is preceded in death by a daughter, Shirley A. Bell, and a brother, Richard Wegemer. He is survived by his wife of 57 years, Madeline DeSio Wegemer and a son, Timothy Wegemer of Rehoboth. A funeral Mass was held at Holy Rosary Catholic Church, Claymont, with interment in Delaware Veterans Memorial Cemetery, Bear. Donations may be made to Alzheimer’s Disease Association, Delaware Valley, 399 Market St. Ste. 102, Philadelphia, PA 19106.
06/20/08
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Stephanie L. Callaway, county paramedic
Stephanie Lynn Callaway, of Lewes, died Tuesday, June 17, 2008, from injuries sustained in an auto accident while serving as a Sussex County paramedic. She was 31.
She was born Aug. 27, 1976, in Seaford. For the last five years she was a paramedic for Sussex County, prior to that she was a paramedic for Kent County, and prior to being a paramedic she was a dispatcher for the Delaware State Police SUSCOM.
She was also a consultant for Creative Memories.
She was president of the Sussex County Paramedic Association, a member of the National Information Officers Association, a past member of Lewes Fire Co., and a past member of Sussex Post No. 8 Georgetown Ambulance Service.
She is survived by her husband of 7 years, Steven L. Callaway; her father, Lewis Hawley and his wife Jean of Georgetown; her mother, Sharon Short and John B. Aglione of Concordville, Pa.; her children, Matthew and Ryan Callaway, at home; maternal grandfather, John L. Cahall of Linwood, Pa.; a brother, Lewis Hawley Jr. of Laurel; two sisters, Arianne Hickman of Seaford and Jennifer Hawley of Baldwinsville, N.Y.; numerous aunts, uncles and cousins; and three dogs, Tonka, Scarlet and Dyson.
Visitation will be noon-3 p.m., Saturday, June 21, at Delmarva Christian High School, Airport Road, Georgetown followed by a procession to the William A. Carter Partnership Center at Delaware Technical & Community College, Route 18, Georgetown, where funeral services will be held. Burial will be private.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Safe Haven Animal Sanctuary of Sussex County, P.O. Box 430, Nassau, DE 19969; or Delaware SPCA, 22918 DuPont Hwy, Georgetown, DE 19947.
Arrangements handled by Short Funeral Services, Georgetown.
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Dorothy R. Eschenbach, active in community
Dorothy R. Eschenbach, 92, died Wednesday, June 18, 2008, at The Methodist Manor House in Seaford, where she resided for the last two years. A longtime resident of Lewes and Vero Beach, Fla., Dorothy was born on Jan. 22, 1916, in Auburn, N.Y. She was the daughter of Elizabeth Duffy Fennessy and William M. Fennessy.
Raised in Rochester, N.Y., Dorothy was in the second graduating class of Our Lady of Mercy High School and subsequently attended the Rochester Business Institute. Prior to marriage, she worked for a financial broker in Rochester.
Active in the community, she was a longtime volunteer for the Lewes Public Library, a member of the Sussex County Garden Club, the Lewes Yacht Club and the Rehoboth Beach Country Club. Along with a group of young mothers, she assisted in establishing a kindergarten in Lewes and with her extensive sewing skills was proud of the first caps and gowns she made for those early graduation ceremonies. Well known for her excellent sense of humor and storytelling ability, Dorothy was an avid reader and enjoyed playing cards, particularly bridge. She was a member of a number of bridge clubs, one of which she joined more than 60 years ago.
Widow of Sam P. Eschenbach, who died in 1978, she is survived by one brother, Kenneth W. Fennessy of Rochester, and three daughters and sons-in-law: Barbara E. and Michael E. Ruddy of Savannah, Ga., Joan E. and Ronald E. Ohl of Martinsburg, W.V., Leslie E. and Michael J. DelGrosso and grandson Joseph M. DelGrosso of New Castle.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 1 p.m., Monday, June 23, at St. Jude The Apostle Catholic Church, Route 1 north of Five Points, Lewes. The family will receive friends from 2 to 4 p.m., Sunday, June 22, at Parsell Funeral Homes & Crematorium, 16961 Kings Highway, Lewes. Interment will be at All Saints Cemetery, Pilottown Road, Lewes.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests contributions made to the Lewes Public Library, 111 Adams St., Lewes, DE 19958. Dorothy was a longtime supporter of the library and served on the book selection committee for many years.
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Charles W. Kable Sr., former inn owner
Charles Warriner Kable Sr., 61, of Rehoboth died Monday, June 16, 2008, at Delaware Hospice Center in Milford, after a long bout fighting cancer.
Charles was born in Baltimore, Md., on Aug. 3, 1946, the son of the late Allan M. Kable Jr. and Doris E. Warriner Kable.
After graduating from Catonsville Senior High School in 1965, he was employed by Hutzler’s Department Store in the Westview Shopping Center in Catonsville, Md., in the Furniture Department and ultimately advanced to a buyer’s position in the Home Furnishings Department at the main store on Howard Street in Baltimore. He then proceeded to interior design positions in Annapolis, Md., and Washington, D.C., before moving to the Eastern Shore.
In 1983, the property at 112 N.W. Front St. in Milford was purchased and renovations began prior to opening the circa 1811 building as the Banking House Inn. Mr. Kable (Chuck) and William Macklin (Mac) were co-owners of the Banking House Inn from 1983 to 1995. Charles served as the chef and Mac was the bartender of the bed and breakfast establishment specializing in good food and good service provided in an elegant and charming atmosphere. The inn was in its heyday in the early 1990s receiving numerous awards and recognition as an establishment providing an all-around outstanding dining experience.
Charles then served as the executive chef at Sydney’s on Rehoboth Avenue in Rehoboth Beach. Charles more recently was a display designer at Johnny Janosik’s Furniture Store and retail salesman at Mitchell’s Furniture store, both in Laurel.
He is survived by his son, Charles Warriner Kable Jr. and his wife Jennifer Lynn Kable; and grandsons, Jack James Kable and Charles Warriner Kable III, all of Howell, Mich.; brothers, Allan Miller Kable III of Sanford, N.C., Floyd Michael Kable and his wife Stephanie of Atlanta, Ga., Steven Douglas Kable and his wife Roberta of Princess Anne, Md., and David Lynn Kable of Baltimore; nieces and nephews include Jason A. Kable of Pikesville, Md., Amy E. Ensor of Catonsville, Paul Kable of Peach Tree City, Ga., Barry Kable of McDonough, Ga., David J. Kable of Baltimore, Angela Kable of Baltimore, Steven Kable of Salisbury, Md., and Sean and Richard Kable of Princess Anne, Md.
A Memorial Service will be held at 6 p.m., Friday, June 20, in the chapel of Berry-Short Funeral Home, 119 NW Front St., Milford, where friends may call after 5 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Delaware Hospice, 100 Patriots Way, Milford, DE 19963.
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Charles E. Olsen, DuPont retiree
Charles E. Olsen died Friday June 13, 2008, at home surrounded by his family.
Born in Wilmington, July 9, 1926, to the late Charles E. Sr. and Margaret M. Clark Olsen, Charles served his country during World War II in the U.S. Navy. After his military service Charles joined the DuPont Company and retired in June 1986, after 38 years of service as a mechanical engineer. He also enjoyed genealogy and history, especially the American Civil War.
Charles was predeceased by his sister, Margaret Eck; and his brother, Joseph Olsen. Charles is survived by his wife, Mary A. Olsen; and three daughters, Janet M. Rosenberg and her husband Bruce of Wilmington, Nancy A. Kemske and her husband Gregg of New Castle, and Kimberly A. Derrickson and her husband Robert of Rehoboth Beach. Charles is also survived by granddaughters, Amy M. Montee and her husband Hobart of Mullica Hill, N.J., and Hanna A. Kemske of Wilmington; a brother, Clarence E. Olsen of Ontario, Calif.; and a trusted friend and companion, Barbara Lovett and her children, Laddie Lovett and Lee McMahon.
Special thanks to the staff at the Helen Graham Cancer Center, and to the Delaware Hospice team.
A memorial service will be held at 10 a.m., Friday June 20, in the McCrery Memorial Chapel, 3710 Kirkwood Highway at Duncan Road, where friends may call after 9 a.m. Interment will be at Delaware Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Bear.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Charles’ memory to the Delaware Humane Society, 701 A St., Wilmington, DE 19801.
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Rebecca D. Anderson, businesswoman
Rebecca Dutton “Becky” Anderson, 82, passed away peacefully Friday, June 6, 2008, at the Lakes Region General Hospital in Laconia, N.H.
She was the daughter of the late Joseph and Ethel Dutton of Rehoboth Beach, and graduated from Rehoboth High School in 1943.
Mrs. Anderson was a secretary at headquarters at Fort Miles, Lewes, during World War II.
She was co-owner of Prescott Lumber Co. in Meredith, N.H., with her husband, John, in the 1960s and 1970s. During her years at Prescott Lumber, she donated the land at the foot of Lake Waukewan to be used as a town park in perpetuity. To the family, it will always be called Rebecca’s park.
She was a member of the First Congregational Church in Meredith, where she was a former superintendent of the Sunday school. Currently, she was in charge of the cradle roll and helped with other correspondence. She was also a past treasurer of the Meredith Public Nursing Association.
She and her husband lived in New England for the past 54 years, both in Meredith and in Camden, Maine. She was a devoted wife, mother and grandmother. She was always there to help her family. She loved to read, crochet, identify birds and find wildflowers. She was an avid Red Sox fan.
Besides her parents, she was preceded in death by her sister, Ann Marsh, of Lewes.
She leaves her husband of 62 years, John “Andy” Anderson; two daughters and sons-in-law, Karen and Nicholas Foery of Nassau and Kristen and Paul Eldridge of Meredith; three grandchildren, Daniel Foery of Manchester, Pa., Kristen Foery of Boulder, Colo., and Zoe Eldridge of Meredith; a sister, Sandra Hoebee of Milton; a niece, Shawnn Hudson of Milton; an aunt, Dorothy Truitt of Rehoboth; two nephews, Bruce Peck of Marietta, Ga., and John Peck of Grand Rapids, Mich.; and several great-nieces and nephews, including her namesake, Rebecca Hudson of Milton.
Memorial services were held at the First Congregational Church, Meredith.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Rebecca’s name can be made to the Meredith Public Nursing Association, 45 NH Route 25, Meredith NH 03253.
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Priscilla Bagby Howard, retired educator
Priscilla Bagby Howard, born Aug. 18, 1923, in Santos, Brazil, left this world for a residence in heaven on June 15, 2008. She was the daughter and granddaughter of career missionaries.
She lived in Brazil until moving to the U.S. to attend college at Mary Hardin-Baylor University. In addition to raising a family and running a household, she taught elementary school for many years.
Studying while fulfilling these other duties she ultimately achieved a master’s degree in education.
She will be dearly missed by the many friends and extended family members touched by her living among us.
She was predeceased by her parents T.C. Bagby and Frances Adams Bagby; and four brothers and one sister.
She is survived by four sons, Ronald D. Howard and wife Cheryl, Stanley B. Howard and partner Nadine Rubanoff, Dr. Paul E. Howard and wife Lesa, and Eric C. Howard, Esq. and wife Alicia; 10 grandchildren; sister Annelu Braly; and many nieces, nephews, grandnieces, grandnephews and cousins.
Services will be private in Belton, Texas.
In lieu of flowers the family requests contributions be made to The First Baptist Church of Lewes, 1001 Kings Highway, Lewes, DE 19958; or to Delaware Hospice Center, 100 Patriots Way, Milford, DE 19963.
Beatrice Hill, retired from Rintz Five & Dime
Beatrice N. Ziegenfuss Hill, 84, of Millsboro, passed away Saturday, June 14, 2008, at Renaissance Healthcare in Millsboro.
Mrs. Hill was born July 7, 1923, in Pennsburg, Pa., daughter of the late Norman and Viola Fegley Ziegenfuss.
Mrs. Hill met and married her late husband in Pennsylvania. Together they moved to Georgetown some 60 years ago. Mrs. Hill worked at the Rintz Five & Dime in Georgetown for many years, retiring at age 60. She enjoyed sewing and cooking. She was a wonderful wife, mother and grandmother who was loved dearly and will be missed by many. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Joseph Hill; her son, Melvin Hill; and her daughter, Josephine Holt.
She is survived by her son-in-law, Gilbert Holt, Sr.; her daughter-in-law, Kathy Hill; six grandchildren; and several great-grandchildren.
A private memorial service will be held in her honor.
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Gladys B. Hewes, retired state secretary
Gladys B. Hewes, 80, of Lewes and formerly of New Castle, peacefully ascended into heaven to be with her Lord on Friday, June 13, 2008, at Renaissance Health Care in Millsboro.
Born in Wilmington on April 22, 1928, Mrs. Hewes was a daughter of the late Joseph Bell and Electra Dodson Bell. She was a member of the Amalgamated Meat Cutters Union for 20 years, and later accepted a position with the state of Delaware as a secretary for the Justice of the Peace, in the capias office, where she retired in 1985 after 10 years of service.
A devout Christian, Mrs. Hewes was a longtime member of Asbury United Methodist Church. She had been active in St. John’s Lodge 8, Order of the Eastern Star, for 35 years, and was a member of the Howard Weston Senior Center.
Her husband, Clayton W. Hewes Sr., died in 2003. She is survived by her son, Clayton W. Hewes Jr. and wife Sandra of Lewes; two brothers, Clyde Bell and his wife Hilda of North East, Md., and Eugene Bell of New Castle; a sister, Thelma Samluk of Wilmington; brother-in-law, Mose Jacobs of New Castle; four grandchildren, Clayton W. Hewes III, Carey L.H. Parsons and her husband Andrew, Jeffrey D. Hewes Sr. and his wife Kelli, and Jason T. Hewes; and eight great-grandchildren, Clayton W. Hewes IV, David J. T. Hewes, Victoria R. Parsons, Samantha G. Parsons, Jeffrey D. Hewes Jr., Jordan M. Hewes, Katherine E. Hewes and Kayla M. Hewes.
A funeral service was held in the chapel of Gracelawn Memorial Park, 2220 N. DuPont Parkway, New Castle.
Flowers are welcome or contributions may be made to Alzheimer’s Association, 2306 Kirkwood Highway, Wilmington, DE 19805.
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Doris B. Pennypacker, noted speaker
Doris B. Pennypacker went home to be with the Lord on Monday, March 31, 2008, in Phoenix, Ariz.
She was born in Malvern, Pa., on Oct. 3, 1937, to the late Charles S. Pennypacker and Esther B. Roberts Pennypacker. She moved to Lewes in the late 1950s, cherished each moment with her children and enjoyed owning and operating Smith’s Christian Book Store from her home. Whether her children were involved in church, sports, band or hunting activities, she was always involved and loved helping them. Her cooking was spectacular as well as her ability to dish up a spread of baked goods that her children couldn’t wait to get home from school to enjoy. In 1961 she accepted Christ as her personal Savior, which changed her heart and her life. Her love for the things of the Lord kept her very involved in the First Baptist Church of Lewes. She sang in the choir, which led to her singing hymns with a small group of women on Sunday mornings in a local radio station. She taught Sunday school for many years and during the summers would hold Good News Club meetings in her home teaching the neighborhood children Bible stories. For many years she was also a camp counselor for The Pioneer Girls Camp in Stroudsburg, Pa.
In 1975, due to a series of back operations and a need for the drier climate, she moved to Scottsdale, Ariz. She later continued her college education at the Rio Salada Community College in Phoenix and worked for 25 years counseling the chemically dependent with an emphasis on Biblical principles. She was a wonderful speaker and was often requested to speak at many events in the California, Nevada and Arizona areas. Her efforts to educate the young and old regarding chemical dependence helped countless families. It has often been said that she never knew a stranger; people just loved her. Of all her accomplishments, she felt that making sure her four children were loved and knew the Lord as Savior were her greatest.
She is preceded in death by her sister, Audrey K. Pennypacker. She is survived by three brothers, George F. Pennypacker of Fairfield, Texas, Charles S. Pennypacker Jr. of Malvern, Pa., and Nelson V. Pennypacker of Wilmington. She is also survived by her four children, a daughter, Audrey K. Smith-Martin and her husband, Don Martin of Milton, three sons, Charles W. Smith and his wife, Catherine of Bear, Dane E. Smith and his wife, Susan of Pfafftown, N.C., and Roger L. Smith and his wife, Sherry of Milton. She is also survived by 12 grandchildren.
A Memorial Service in her honor will be held at the First Baptist Church of Lewes on Kings Highway at 11 a.m., Saturday, June 28. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to The First Baptist Church, PO Box 25, Lewes, DE 19958 or www.fbcoflewes.org and designate Building Fund.
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Betty Jane Hall, retired administrator
Betty Jane Boyer Hall, 82, of Lewes, died on Tuesday, June 17, 2008.
Born in Wilmington on July 18, 1925, Mrs. Hall was a daughter of the late John W. Campbell and Gladys E. Dunham Campbell. She was employed as the administrator for the former Riverside Nursing Home in Claymont for many years. An active parishioner of St. George’s Chapel in Harbeson, Mrs. Hall was a member of the Altar Guild and the Episcopal Church Women. She volunteered at the church’s Christmas Shop each year and assisted with the All Saints’ Thrift Shop. She was also a member and past president of the Angola by the Bay Women’s Club.
In her leisure hours, Mrs. Hall greatly enjoyed playing cards and bingo with friends, and knitting.
She is survived by her husband of 36 years, Harold W. Hall; six children, Richard A. Boyer of Destin, Fla., Cheryl A. Rodriguez and husband Jose of Craddockville, Va., Brian Turner of New Castle, Christopher Hall and wife Marie of New Castle, Christine Throckmorton and husband Steve of New Castle, and Timothy Hall of Satter Path, N.C.; sister-in-law, Shirley Hall of Seattle, Wash.; 15 grandchildren; and eight great-grandchildren. In addition to her parents she was preceded in death by a daughter, Deborah Britton; a granddaughter, Debra Braden; and a daughter-in-law, Shirley M. Boyer.
A funeral service will be held at 11 a.m., Saturday, June 21, at St. George’s Chapel, 20274 Beaver Dam Road at Route 23, Harbeson. A graveside service will be held at 11 a.m., Monday, June 23, at Gracelawn Memorial Park, 2220 N. DuPont Parkway, New Castle.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to St. George’s Chapel, c/o The Episcopal Parish of All Saints’ Church, 18 Olive Ave., Rehoboth Beach, DE 19971.
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Louise Murphy Taylor, family matriarch
Louise Murphy Taylor passed away at her beach house in Rehoboth Beach on Saturday, June 14, 2008. She died very unexpectedly of natural causes. She was 84 years youthful.
Louise, affectionately called “Murph” and later “Weezie,” was born March 17, 1924, in Harrington, daughter of Charles D. Murphy Sr. and Elva Bennett Murphy. Her father, who died in 1928, was a renowned businessman and politician. Louise attended Hanamore Academy and Penn Hall boarding schools and graduated in 1946 from Connecticut College with a degree in English. In 1929 she met and married F. Martin Taylor, a Wilmington businessman. They raised three children while residing in Wilmington and spending summers in Rehoboth Beach. Louise received a master’s in education from the University of Delaware in 1970.
Louise’s connection to people, particularly her family, was the driving force in her life. With the energy, will and spunk of 10 people, she was the ultimate devoted wife, mother and grandmother, the energetic matrix of her family and a wide group of friends. Weezie knew how to put love into action. Until her last breath, with phenomenal energy and love, she drew them to her and traveled the globe to love and to support them.
Louise was a 21st-century woman born in the 1920s, a maverick who transcended social conformity and attracted a cross-generational group of friends. She had an outspoken passion for liberal politics and causes. (If you love Weezie, vote for Barack!) Louise surrounded herself with beauty; she was a superb cook, entertainer and gardener. Weezie’s candor and humor, zest for life and a good time, deep compassion, her love so freely given was a gift to all, a gift that never quit. She is profoundly missed.
In addition to her parents, Louise was preceded in death by her beloved husband Martin; her brothers, James G. Smith Jr., formerly of Dover and Charles D. Murphy Jr., formerly of Milford; and her sister Diane Leland, formerly of San Francisco.
She is survived by two sons and one daughter-in-law, G. Bennett and Barbara Taylor of Key West, Fla., and Frank M. Taylor Jr. of Guatemala; a daughter, Elisabeth Holmgren of Anchorage, Alaska; and four grandchildren, Kyle Elizabeth Taylor of Gainesville, Fla., Taylor Hauk Evenson of Anchorage, Julia Brown Taylor of Key West, and Raquel Louise Holmgren of Anchorage.
The family suggests memorial contributions be made to All Saints’ Episcopal Church, 18 Olive Ave., Rehoboth Beach, DE 19971; or the Polycystic Kidney Foundation, 9221 Ward Parkway, Suite 400, Kansas City, MO 64114-3367.
Please come all family and friends that she loved so dearly to a celebration of her life at 4 p.m., Tuesday, June 24, at All Saints’ Episcopal Church, 18 Olive Ave., Rehoboth Beach. Afterward we urge you to join us for a party worthy of this joyous woman. Bring your dancing shoes!
Arrangements are being handled by Parsell Funeral Homes & Crematorium, Lewes.
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Wolfgang Franke, barbershop singer
Wolfgang Franke, 75, of Lewes, passed away Sunday, May 25, 2008, at his residence. He was born Aug. 25, 1932, in Cincinnati, Ohio, son of the late Wolfgang O. Franke Sr. and Adeline Connelly Franke.
Mr. Franke started coming to Lewes on weekends in 1984, and became a full-time resident in 1994. Mr. Franke was a facilities manager for First Fidelity Bank in New Jersey for eight years, retiring in 1994. He served in the U.S. Air Force from 1952 to 1956. He sang with the Cherry Hill, N.J., Barbershop Chorus while in New Jersey and joined the Ocean View Barbershop Chorus once he relocated to Delaware. He also sang with the Lewes Men’s Community Chorus. He was a substitute teacher in the Indian River School District and at Sussex Tech. He also mentored elementary school-age students.
He is survived by his wife of 53 years, Julia C. Franke; a daughter, Christine Ann Thom and her husband Michael J. of Abingdon, Md.; a son, Charles David Franke of Pine Hill, N.J.; two grandchildren, Bryan Thom and Kelsey Anne Thom; a sister, Cecelia Armano of Berlin, N.J.; two brothers, Herman Franke of Wilmington, S.C., and Carl Franke of Chico, Calif. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister, Georgia Kernan.
A memorial service will be held at St. George’s Episcopal Chapel, Beaver Dam Road, near Angola, at 2 p.m., Sunday, June 29, with the Rev. Harry Collins officiating. Interment will be private. Arrangements are being handled by Parsell Funeral Enterprises Inc., Lewes.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions be made to Delaware Hospice, 100 Patriots Way, Milford, DE 19963.
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