07/22/08
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Emma Walls Wilkerson, Sussex homemaker
Emma J. Walls Wilkerson, 91, of Ellendale, passed away Sunday, July 20, 2008, at Milford Center. Emma was born in Willow River, Minn,, the daughter of the late James H. and Marian Cisar Novotny. She was a homemaker and had worked as a button sorter for Rogers Button Factory for many years.
Emma had been a member of Goshen U.M. Church since 1967. Emma enjoyed gardening and loved flowers. She is preceded in death by her first husband, Lawrence Walls in 1956; her second husband, Claude Wilkerson in 1986; and a sister, Lillian Dutton.
Emma is survived by a brother, James Novotny of Milton; a sister, Marie Tucker of Ellendale; and several nieces and nephews.
A funeral service will be held at 2 p.m., Wednesday, July 23, in the chapel of Short Funeral Services, 416 Federal St., Milton, where friends may call after 1 p.m. Burial will be in Harbeson Cemetery.
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Theresa A. Branson, lifelong teacher
Theresa Angela Greggo Branson passed away peacefully on Thursday, July 17, 2008.
Theresa was born in Wilmington on June 16, 1940. After graduation from Ursuline Academy, she entered the Immaculate Heart of Mary Novitiate in Scranton, Pa., where she was professed a nun, Sister Mary Germana, in 1962. She taught in the order for 10 years in New York, Pennsylvania and Maryland. After many years of devoted service to the church and the convent, she left the order and returned to Delaware where she dedicated her life to educating thousands of children during her teaching career. Theresa taught at St. Matthew’s, Our Lady of Fatima, St. Catherine’s and Mt. Aviat, touching, changing and enriching the lives of many elementary school children in Delaware. Often, when Theresa was out, a former student would approach her saying, “Mrs. Branson! You taught me in fourth grade!” and she would smile graciously, sincerely remembering that student. Her presence and influence were pervasive. Though Theresa retired from formal teaching in 1994, she volunteered at the Academy of Lifelong Learning, where she taught needlecraft, stenciling and theorem painting.
Theresa was a genuine aesthete, an advocate of the arts and a talented musician and artist. Her home is filled with beautiful needlepoints and rich paintings all created by her own hand. In 2006, Theresa played a role in the film, shot in Delaware, titled “’Alms,’ You Say,” written and directed by her nephew, Christopher Malinowski. Among her many incarnations – actress, artist, teacher, gardener, friend – Theresa’s most vivid embodiments were as a devoted wife, sister and aunt. She and Charlie shared an amazing, interesting and vigorous marriage, traveling, taking classes, lying on the beach and spending time on Nantucket Island and Lewes, close to the ocean, one of their favorite places to relax and play.
As sisters, Theresa and Elaine grew up in a world rich with stories, delicious food and humor. Their affection and respect for one another resonated through their laughing glances and embracing of their separate and mutual interests. Like a mother to her nieces and nephews, Aunt Theresa zealously participated in every aspect of their lives, coming to these events with joy, love and genuine good will. Theresa enjoyed traveling, walking on the beach, knitting, storytelling and sharing her life with her family and friends. Her beautiful, thoughtful presence will be missed.
Theresa was predeceased by her parents, Julia Capodonna Greggo and Alexander J. Greggo of Wilmington. Theresa is survived by her husband of 37 years, Charles Branson; her sister, Elaine Greggo and her husband Joseph Kossek of Townsend; her sister-in-law, Bunny Branson Rogowski and her husband Eddie Rogowski of Holland, Pa.; her nieces, Theresa Manucci of Wilmington, and Dr. Melanie Malinowski and her husband Dr. Andy Cunningham of Houston, Texas; her nephew, Christopher Malinowski of Landenberg, Pa.; her great-nephew, Dustin Manucci of Wilmington; and her great-nieces, Cassidy Manucci of Wilmington, and Echo Malinowski-Cunningham of Houston.
Visitation will be held 10:30 a.m.-noon, Thursday, July 24, at St. John the Beloved Church, 907 Milltown Road, Wilmington. A Mass of Christian Burial will begin at noon. Entombment will be held privately with her immediate family.
After the Mass, everyone is invited to a luncheon at the Deerfield Country Club, 507 Thompson Station Road, Newark. Please come and celebrate Theresa’s incredible life. Please omit flowers. Instead, the family encourages donations to the Tunnell Cancer Center, 18947 John J. Williams Highway, Rehoboth Beach, DE 19971; or the Delaware Hospice Center, 100 Patriots Way, Milford, DE 19963.
Arrangements by Doherty Funeral Homes.
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Mildred R. Owens, Silco retiree
Mildred R. Owens, 83, of Ellendale, passed away Friday, July 18, 2008 at Harrison Senior Living, in Georgetown.
Mildred was born in Milford, daughter of the late James Courtland Sr. and Cora I. Walls Smith.
She was a retail clerk with Silco in Milford and Milton for 20 years, retiring several years ago.
Mildred was a member of the Ellendale Fire Company Ladies Auxiliary and also Milford Church of the Nazarene.
In addition to her parents, Mildred is preceded in death by her husband, Morris Burton Owens Jr., in March 1999; two daughters, Grace Kay Owens and Joann Brittingham; and a brother, James C. Smith Jr.
She is survived by two sons, James H. Owens and his wife Joann of Farmington, and George R. Owens and his wife Susan of Ellendale; four daughters, Ida I.O. Smith and her husband Richard of Ellendale, Sally Hurd of Williamsville, Robin L. Kight and her husband Nick of Wilmington, and Rhonda L. Owens-Whitehouse and her husband Ron of Ellendale; six grandchildren, Kathi McCoy and her husband Ron, J.C. Owens and his wife Donna, Charles Owens, Kimberly Owens, Keri Owens and Katie Owens; four great-grandchildren, Faith Ann McCoy, Alex McCoy, Ryan McCoy and Luke Owens; four step-grandchildren, William Smith, Sheila Smith, Mary Smith and Rosalie Whitehouse; and a brother, George D. Smith of Ellendale.
A funeral service will be held at 1 p.m., Wednesday, July 23, in the chapel of Berry-Short Funeral Home, 119 NW Front St., Milford where friends may call Tuesday evening from 7 to 9 p.m. Burial will be in Barratt’s Chapel Cemetery, Frederica.
The family suggests contributions be made to Delaware Hospice, 100 Patriots Way, Milford, DE 19963; or American Kidney Foundation, 6110 Executive Blvd., Suite 1010, Rockville, MD 28052,
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Martina Biddle, governor’s employee
Martina “Tina” Biddle, 78, passed away Friday, July 18, 2008, at her daughter’s home near Georgetown.
She was the daughter of the late Peter and Elizabeth Rohr Kreutzer.
A former state of Delaware employee, Tina worked for five governors from Gov. Russell W. Peterson through Gov. Tom Carper. Tina was preceded in death by her husband, Charles E. Biddle Sr.; a grandson, Beau Biddle; seven sisters, Pauline Kreutzer, Magdeline Brungardt, Clara Richardson, Catherine Draper, Mary Schmidt, Odillia LaFontaine and Barbara Stahn; and two brothers, Herbert and Jacob Kreutzer.
Tina will be sadly missed by her son, Charles Biddle Jr. of Newark; her daughter, Joyce Mulhern and her husband Dick of Georgetown; four grandchildren, Keith Wilson and his wife Danielle of Annapolis, Md., Jessica Brown and her husband Keith of Georgetown, Casey Biddle and his wife Christy of Elkton, Md., and Karibeth Biddle and her fiancé Michael Dacko of Lewes; three great-grandchildren, Meredith and Ryan Wilson and Gage Baber Biddle; her twin brother, Frank Kreutzer of Arvada, Colo.; an older brother, Joseph Kreutzer of Baton Rouge, La., and her younger sister, Leona Fitzsimmons of San Leandro, Calif.; as well as numerous brothers- and sisters-in-law, cousins, nieces, nephews and dear friends.
Funeral services will be noon, Tuesday, July 22, at Daniels & Hutchison Funeral Home LLC, 212 North Broad St., Middletown, where family and friends may visit two hours prior to services. Interment will be in Townsend Cemetery.
IThe family suggests memorial donations to the American Cancer Society, 92 Reads Way, Suite 205, New Castle, DE 19720.
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Elsie L. Kee, enjoyed music
Elsie L. Kee, 87, a resident of Lewes since 1997, formerly of Philadelphia, died Thursday, July 17, 2008, at Harbor Healthcare, Lewes.
She was born in Philadelphia, the daughter of the late Cedric E. and Lillian B. Haig Knowles. She was a homemaker and enjoyed sewing, playing the organ and singing in the church choir. She was a past member of the Lewes Baptist Church. She was preceded in death by her husband, George Kee in 1997; and a brother, Robert E. Knowles.
She is survived by her sister, Marie McNamee and her husband Alfred of Lewes; a brother, Evan Knowles and his wife Patricia of Florida; one nephew; five nieces; and several great-nieces and -nephews.
Funeral services will be 11 a.m., Tuesday, July 22, in the chapel of Short Funeral Services, 416 Federal St., Milton, where friends may call after 10 a.m. Interment will be in Henlopen Memorial Park.
Contributions may be made to Delaware Hospice Center, 100 Patriots Way, Milford, DE 19963.
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Harry S. Rust, active in community
Harry S. Rust, of Milford, passed away Thursday, July 17, 2008, in Bayhealth-Milford Memorial Hospital after living 89 wonderful and happy years.
Mr. Rust was born Oct. 1, 1918, in Harbeson, son of the late William P. and Eva Sockrider Rust.
He graduated from Milford High School with the class of 1937. Mr. Rust was a veteran of the U.S. Army serving in the 69th Infantry Division in Europe during World War II. He was a member of the Milford Police Force after high school for a short time before entering the military.
After his tour of duty ended he took a position with the DuPont Company in Seaford where he remained employed for 38 years before retiring. During his time with DuPont, Mr. Rust, along with his wife, was also a local insurance agent and real estate broker. After retirement, he and his wife, Alma, who was his high school sweetheart, spent winters in Seminole, Fla., and summers in Slaughter Beach. For the past three years, they have been active residents of the Heritage at Milford. Mr. Rust was a member of the Odd Fellows (IOOF), the American Legion Post 3 in Milford, the Blue Hen VFW Post 6483 in Milford and was the Trail Master of the local chapter of the Holiday Rambler Club. He was a longtime member of the Avenue United Methodist Church in Milford.
He is survived by his wife of 70 years, Alma Rust; a daughter and son-in-law, Joyce (Rust) and Terry Feulner of Walnut, Calif., and their children, Kimberly Vetter and her husband Tracy of Corona Hills, Calif., and Wendy Wyatt and her husband Charlie of Oceanside, Calif.; a son and daughter-in-law, Ronald and Margaret Rust of Wilmington, and their children, Heather Rust and Kim Lettner of Farmville, Va., Michelle Rust of Beverly, Mass., Lowell Rust and his wife Debbie of Easley, S.C., Bryan Rust of Rehoboth, and Ashley Rust of Wilmington; and eight great-grandchildren, Tyler Vetter, Samantha Vetter, Hannah Wyatt, Connor Wyatt, Ben Rust, Delaney Rust, Grace Rust and Harry Rust.
A memorial service was held in the Avenue United Methodist Church, Milford, with burial private.
Instead of flowers, the family has requested memorial contributions to the Avenue United Methodist Church Choir Fund, 20 N. Church St., Milford, DE 19963. Arrangements handled by Rogers Funeral Home, Milford.
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George J. Tugend, retired postmaster
George J. Tugend, 85, of Dover, formerly of Delaware City, died on Wednesday, July 16, 2008, at Westminster Health Center, Dover.
A native Delawarean, Mr. Tugend was born in Wilmington on July 30, 1922, son of the late George Tugend and Addie Washam Tugend.
He enjoyed a 30-year career with the U.S. Postal Service and was the longest-serving postmaster in Delaware City before his retirement in 1979. Active in his community throughout his life, Mr. Tugend was a member of the First Presbyterian Church of Delaware City and a life member of Jackson Lodge 19, AF & AM. He was a former member of the Delaware City Recreation Club and the Delaware City Volunteer Fire Co. He also bowled on both the Delaware City and Getty Oil bowling teams.
An avid fan of the Phillies and the Eagles, he also greatly enjoyed bowling, fishing and the beach. Mr. Tugend looked forward to traveling with his wife, especially to their vacation home in Florida. Both kind and generous by nature, he was loved and respected by all those fortunate to have known him.
He is survived by his devoted and loving wife of 58 years, Emilie Everett Tugend; and his beloved daughter, Georgia Lea Tugend and her husband David H. Fischbach of Lewes.
The family extends their heartfelt thanks to the staff of Westminster Health Center for their many kindnesses to Mr. Tugend during his illness.
A funeral service will be 11:30 a.m. Tuesday, July 22, at the Spicer-Mullikin Funeral Home, 214 Clinton St., Delaware City, where friends may call after 10 a.m. A Masonic service will be held at 11:15 a.m. Interment will be in St. Georges Cemetery, Kirkwood-St. Georges Road, St. Georges.
Instead of flowers, contributions may be made to the First Presbyterian Church of Delaware City, P.O. Box 4105, Delaware City, DE 19706.
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Herbert R. Shupard, owned tackle business
Herbert R. Shupard Sr., 94, of Rehoboth Beach, passed away on Friday, July 18, 2008, at Beebe Medical Center in Lewes. He was born April 24, 1914, in Holmes, Pa., son of the late Ralph and Margaret Bryan Shupard.
Mr. Shupard served with the Civil Conservation Corps during the Depression years. He then worked as a welder first at Sun Ship in Chester, Pa., then at Gulf Oil in Philadelphia, Pa., followed by service with Air Products in Boothwyn, Pa.
In 1970 he opened Herb’s Bait & Tackle in Dewey Beach, which he operated until 1997, when he retired at the age of 83.
He truly loved his business and enjoyed talking “fishing” with his many customers over the years.
Herb and his wife spent their winters vacationing and fishing in Marathon, one of the islands in the Florida Keys.
He loved to fish the bridges at night for snook and tarpon and did so until he was 91 years old.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his first wife, Florence Elizabeth “Betty” Shupard.
He is survived by his second wife of 22 years, Marjorie Phillips Shupard; his son Herbert S. Shupard Jr.; three grandchildren, Tammy Brandt of Sterling, Va., Amy Shupard of Rehoboth Beach, and Geoffrey Shupard of Dewey Beach; his brother, Howard Shupard of Boothwyn, Pa.; three stepdaughters, Connie Alexander of Middletown, and June Ellis and Melanie Giangrant, both of Dover; five stepgrandchildren; and six step-great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.
Services were held at Parsell Funeral Homes & Crematorium, Lewes, with interment in All Saints’ Cemetery near Angola.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions be made to the Delaware Hospice Center, 100 Patriots Way, Milford, DE 19963; or to the Epworth United Methodist Church Building Fund, 19825 Holland Glade Road, Rehoboth Beach, DE 19971.
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Elaine A. LePere, owned daycare facility
Elaine A. Celli LePere, 60, of New Castle, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by her loving family on Monday, July 14, 2008, after a long, courageous battle with cancer.
Elaine touched many lives in ways she never even realized. She had a heart of gold and will always be remembered for her generosity and unbelievable strength. She had a love for children and it showed in the 19 years of having a daycare. She also made many wonderful friends and memories while working at For Your Nails Only.
Elaine was the daughter of the late Abraham “Lou” and Regina Celli.
She was also preceded in death by her brothers Louis, William and Patrick; and sisters Denise Celli Davis and Teresa Celli. She is survived by her loving husband of 25 years, Dennis; three children, Teresa Smith of Newark, Danielle Smith of New Castle, and Patrick LePere (PZ) and his wife Nicki of Bear; and six grandchildren, Connor, Peyton, Madison, Kylie, Gabrielle and Dominic, all of whom she loved dearly.
She is also survived by her four brothers, Donald (Duck) Celli of Wilmington, Harry (Jack) Celli and his wife Doris, Joe (Bundo) Celli and his wife Pat, all of New Castle, Ronald Celli and his wife Sharon of Lewes; two sisters, Marie Celli and Dolores Bennett and her husband Wallace, all of New Castle.
Elaine was also survived and greatly loved by numerous aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
A Mass of Christian Burial was held at St. Peter’s Roman Catholic Church, New Castle, with interment in Gracelawn Memorial Park, New Castle.
The family wishes to thank the staff of Medical Oncology Hematology Consultants and also the staff of Compassionate Care Hospice for their compassion and extraordinary care during this time.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests contributions in Elaine’s name to Helen F. Graham Cancer Center, 4701 Ogletown-Stanton Rd., Suite 2200, Newark, DE 19713-2055.
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Blonnie Vera McCall, Millsboro native
Blonnie Vera Sammons McCall, 83, of Lewes, died Wednesday, July 16, 2008.
Mrs. McCall was born March 21, 1925, in Millsboro.
She was preceded in death by her parents and grandparents; her husband, John McCall; one daughter, Sandra Kaye Sammons; one sister; and three brothers.
She is survived by her devoted daughter, Fern Sammons Bliss-Morgan of Camden, N.J.; her granddaughter, Stacey Bliss Rickets; three great-grandchildren, Stacia, Galya and Craig of Houston, Texas; two sisters, Rochelle Nock and Vivian Johnson; two brothers, Crawford and Harlin Johnson; and an adopted son, David Tull of Millsboro; as well as her extended family - the staff and residents of the former Lewes Convalescent Center and the Millsboro Renaissance Nursing Rehabilitation Center, as well as a host of relatives and many friends.
Funeral services will be 1 p.m., Thursday, July 24, at the Watson Funeral Home, 211 S. Washington St., Millsboro, where a viewing will be held from noon to 1 p.m. Pastor Colby Matlock will officiate.
Interment will be in Harmony United Methodist Church Cemetery, Millsboro.
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07/25/08
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Edith Mae Holston, avid music lover
Edith Mae Holston, 99, born Edith Mae West, Nov. 9, 1908, in Georgetown, passed away peacefully at the Seaford Retirement and Rehabilitation Center on Monday, July 22, 2008.
Mrs. Holston was an avid lover of music. She enjoyed singing and playing the piano, organ and other musical instruments in her younger years. She and her late husband, Larry E. Holston, were farmers for many years, retiring in 1972. They were members of Providence United Methodist Church, Georgetown.
Mrs. Holston is survived by her children, Margaret L. Willey of Milton, William Elwood Holston, Reese L. Holston, Charles Ray Holston and his wife Pat, all of Georgetown, and Virginia H. Molloy of Indian Trail, N.C.; her grandchildren, Wayne E. Holston, Michael A. Holston, Alvin K. Holston, Karen S. Franklin, Wade W. Willey, Gregory Donaway and Sean P. Malloy; she was also blessed with 10 great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her husband in 1989; two grandchildren, Neal C. Willey and Jeffrey Donaway; four siblings, Margaret Hitchens, Florence Hitchens, Huey West and Edward West; two sons-in-law, Russell Willey and Lawrence P. Malloy; and a daughter-in-law, Anna Mae Holston.
The family would like to thank the nurses, certified nurses assistants, aides and all other staff at the Seaford Center for all their excellent care for the past 18 years.
A funeral service will be held at 11 a.m., Saturday, July 26, at the Watson Funeral Home, 211 S. Washington St., Millsboro, where friends may call for the visitation at 10 a.m. The Rev. Robert A. Hudson will officiate. Interment will be in the Millsboro Cemetery.
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Orin Dale Womack, Merchant Marine
Orin Dale “Sonny” Womack, 48, of Millsboro, formerly of Kutztown, Pa., passed away peacefully at his home on Monday, July 21, 2008.
He was born in Dunedin, Fla., son to the late Mora D. and Anita Attaway Womack. Mr. Womack was currently employed by the city of Rehoboth Beach as part of the Building and Grounds crew. He was formerly employed by Tilcon, and George and Lynch Inc. of Delaware, and Schlouch Inc. of Pennsylvania. “Sonny” served as a Merchant Marine and is a lifetime member of the Perry Township Game Association.
Mr. Womack enjoyed his American Indian Heritage. He was part Narragansett and also part Cherokee Indian. “Sonny” also enjoyed his family and friends, sport fishing, hunting, beachcombing, boating and woodcarving.
“Sonny” is survived by his loving wife of 23 years, Ann M. Womack; his brother, Robert Scott of Bell, Fla.; and his mother-in-law and father-in-law, Miriam M. and Richard D. Kline of Shoemakersville, Pa.
Services and burial will be private.
In lieu of flowers the family suggests memorial contributions to Delaware Hospice Center, 100 Patriots Way, Milford, DE 19963; the Tunnell Cancer Center, 18941 John J. Williams Hwy., Rehoboth Beach, DE 19971; or the Nanticoke Indian Association, 27073 John J. Williams Hwy., Millsboro, DE 19966.
Arrangements by Melson Funeral Services of Long Neck.
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Gordon R. Jenks, Millsboro resident
Gordon R. Jenks, 79, of Millsboro, formerly of Willow Grove, Pa., passed away Saturday July 5, 2008, at Brandywine Assisted Living in Rehoboth Beach. A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m., Saturday, July 26, at the Long Neck Chapel of Melson Funeral Services, Long Neck Road, Millsboro. Interment will be private. In lieu of flowers the family suggests memorial contributions in Gordon’s name to the Tunnell Cancer Center, 18941 John J. Williams Highway, Rehoboth Beach, DE 19971.
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Johnson S. Collins Jr., retired truck driver
Johnson Stanton Collins Jr. of Millsboro departed his mortal life peacefully on Monday, July 21, 2008, at Beebe Medical Center in Lewes. Johnson was born July 18, 1914, in Atlantic City, N.J.
He was preceded in death by his father and mother, Johnson S. Collins Sr. and Alice B. Shockley Collins; and a sister, Doris McCreary of Philadelphia, Pa. He is survived by his loving wife of 70 years, Irene A. Collins; a loving and devoted son, James J. Collins and his wife Ernestine B. Collins of Camden; granddaughter Sheri L. Humphrey and husband Shaun D. Humphrey of Schwenksville, Pa.; a precious great-granddaughter, McKenzie L. Humphrey of Schwenksville; two sisters, Hortense Collins and Aldermae Tindley of Dover; and many cousins, nieces and nephews.
Mr. Collins was a truck driver for Parker Block Company, Millsboro, for 40 years. Although unable to attend trade school, he taught himself how to do plumbing and electrical wiring that was applauded by professionals who checked his work. After retirement from Parker Block Company, he worked as a handyman at Fisherman’s Wharf in Lewes.
As a member of Friendship United Methodist Church of Millsboro, he served on the trustee board, and had been the Church Lay Leader as well as a lay speaker. Nevertheless, his greatest joy was serving the Lord Jesus Christ.
Services will be held at 11 a.m., Friday, July 25, at Friendship U.M. Church, Friendship Road, Millsboro, where visitation will start at 10 a.m. The Rev. George Fisher will officiate the service.
Interment will be in Friendship U.M. Church Cemetery, Millsboro.
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Grover Cleveland Long, renowned gardener
Surrounded by devoted family and friends at his Greenville home, Grover Cleveland “Poopsie” Long was carried on angels’ wings into the loving embrace of our Lord on Sunday, July 20, 2008. He had been ill for several years.
After serving his country in the Army on Guadalcanal in the South Pacific during World War II, Mr. Long returned home to marry his sweetheart, Ellen V. Parnell (aka Poopsie), of Lumberton, N.C. in 1945. He began his career with Studebaker Motors and Huron Milling Company before joining Hercules Power Company in the late 1950s. He made many friends at Hercules, traveling in 48 of our nation’s 50 states, including Alaska. He retired from Hercules in the early 1980s and was a realtor with Patterson Schwartz for a few years thereafter. A kind, warmhearted and generous man, Mr. Long was a Freemason; a member of the Civitan Club in Durham, N.C. where he was “Man of the Year” in 1959; a Shriner; and a longtime member and president of Toastmasters Clubs in several states. A renowned public speaker, he inspired thousands across the country and was invited to preach many lay sermons. He was selected Outstanding Daddy of the Year for 56 years in a row. Mr. Long never met a man or woman he didn’t like.
All women from one day to 100 years old he affectionately called “Poopsie,” and in turn, they nicknamed him “Poopsie.” His infectious sense of humor was endearing; he was a quick wit, always ready with a joke or funny story, and wrote treasured poems celebrating special moments for family and friends.
An avid green thumb gardener, “Poopsie” expertly landscaped his homes wearing his trademark straw hat, T-shirt, raggedy red shorts, orange Herculon socks and old wing-tip shoes, an outfit which his wife, Ellen, repeatedly tossed in the garbage but he retrieved each time.
The countless times he was stopped from going to the hardware store or garden center without a change of clothes he protested, “But Poopsie, everyone there looks just like me.” Neighbors insisted that Mr. Long “sifted” each shovel of soil and dubbed his yard “Longwood Gardens - Delaware.” While driving by his former Mt. Lebanon Road home, strangers frequently stopped and asked his fees for gardening services.
As he tended his Greenville yard, neighborhood adults and children often chatted with Mr. Long and were amazed to learn he was 86 years old, comparing him to the “Energizer Bunny.” He was also very fond of golf and played frequently at Hercules Country Club links.
Mr. Long is survived by Ellen Parnell Long, his adoring wife of 63 years; his beloved daughters, Linda Ann of Greenville, and Saralynn and her husband Louis J. Vollmer and their daughter, Cally Ann Volmer of Atlanta, Ga., and Rehoboth Beach; a nephew, Barry P. Taylor of Montgomery, Ala.; and his special little dachshund buddy, Brandy. Waiting to greet him in Heaven are his mother, Sarah Willetts Long; 10 older brothers and sisters; and many of his cherished friends.
A celebration of life was held at Chandler Funeral Home, 2506 Concord Pike, Wilmington.
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Walter Clark Jr., worked for Collins & Ryan
Walter Linford “Lenny” Clark Jr., 70, of Millsboro, passed away on Monday, July 21, 2008, at the Delaware Hospice Center in Milford.
Linford spent most of his life as a truck driver. In his early years, he worked with his first cousin, Clarence “Gib” Johnson, in timbering. Later he went to work for Townsend Inc. He spent many years working for Collins & Ryan in Millsboro, which later became Suburban Propane, and he retired on Sept. 4, 1994. Later on he went back to work at Townsends Inc. and Melvin Joseph’s Construction Company. Linford finally called it quits and retired once and for all in October 2007.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Walter L. Clark Sr. and Arzie Morris Clark; a brother, Norman Clark; and a sister, Loretta Mumford. He was also preceded in death by his second wife, Bessie Wright Clark; and a stepdaughter, Cheryl Jackson.
He is survived by his wife, Lulu Sample Clark; a brother, Roger Clark; and three sisters, Doreen Jackson, Yvonne Street and Joyce Clark, all of Millsboro; his stepchildren, Brady Sample, Clayton Sample, Katina Sample, Byron Wright and Bonnie Hall; his grandchildren, Darris Sample, Casharra Sample, B.J. Wright, Candida Jackson, Brian Hall and Leia Nichols; and one great-granddaughter, Tatyana Jackson. Also, he leaves behind many nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family and a host of friends.
Services will be held at 2 p.m., Sunday, July 27, at the Harmony United Methodist Church, 27270 John J. Williams Highway, Millsboro, with visitation starting at 1 p.m.
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07/29/08
Delmar Royston Hanna, enjoyed the beach
Delmar Royston Hanna, 90, formerly of Rehoboth Beach, wife of the late John F. Hanna, died Thursday, July 24, 2008, at Charlestown Retirement Community in Maryland.
When Del lived in Delaware in the 1980s and 1990s, she was an active member of St. Edmond’s Church, serving as a eucharistic minister and president of the sodality. She also belonged to Sussex Pines Country Club, where she loved to play bridge.
Del enjoyed swimming in the ocean and sitting on the beach with all the gang on Chicago Street. She loved walking on the beach and collecting shells.
Del was born in Sparrows Point, Md., and raised her family there before moving to Baltimore, Md., when she was 37. She lived in the Hamilton and Canterbury sections of the city before moving to Pinehurst on the Bay in Anne Arundel County, Maryland. She and her family lived there until they moved to Delaware.
Del and her husband, Jack, returned to the Canterbury section of Baltimore in the late 1990s. When her husband died in 2000, she moved to Charlestown.
Del was a wonderful wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and friend who will be missed by all who knew her. She is survived by her children, Fran Flanigan and her husband John, Mary Houck and her husband Dave, Katy Pugh, John Hanna and his wife Betty, Deborah Zych and her husband Greg, and William Hanna; as well as 12 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren.
Memorial contributions may be made to Hospice of Professional Healthcare Resources, 3431 Benson Ave., Suite G-100, Baltimore, MD 21227; or to St. Edmond’s Church, King Charles Avenue & Laurel Street, Rehoboth Beach, DE 19971. The family will have a memorial Mass at St. Edmond’s in the early fall.
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Miriam R. Mundorf, teacher’s aide
Miriam R. Mundorf, 82, of Millsboro, passed away Thursday, July 24, 2008, at home.
She was born April 14, 1926, to the late John D. and Mabel A. Dobson Gray.
Mrs. Mundorf was a teacher’s aide at the East Millsboro Elementary School, Millsboro. She attended Grace United Methodist Church in Millsboro and she loved lighthouses and collected many models of them.
In addition to her parents, Mrs. Mundorf was preceded in death by her husband, James Grier Mundorf in 1988; and a son, Gary Brice Mundorf in 2007.
She is survived by two sons, Charles Blair Mundorf Sr. and wife Shirley of Dover, and John D. “Jack” Mundorf of Millsboro; three daughters, Pat Rust and her husband Fred of Georgetown, Greer Elizabeth Dietrich and her husband Brad of Wrightsville, Pa., and Tracy Moore and her husband Richard of Millsboro; one brother, Donald F. Gray of Seaford; two sisters, Mary Jane Rohlfing and her husband Ed of Millsboro, and Pat Johnson and her husband Richard of Millsboro; 11 grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; three great-great-grandchildren; and many nieces, nephews and friends.
Graveside services will be 10 a.m., Tuesday, July 29, in the Millsboro Cemetery, State Street, Millsboro. The Rev. Ed Wilkins will officiate the service.
Instead of flowers, the family asks for contributions to Delaware Hospice Center, 100 Patriots Way, Milford, DE 19963, in memory of Miriam Mundorf.
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Dorothy L. Bartels, loved to travel
Dorothy Lee Nichols Bartels, 81, of West Grove, Pa., passed away Thursday, July 24, 2008, at Christiana Hospital.
She was the oldest daughter of Roland W. Nichols Sr. and Lillian Dickerson Nichols.
Dorothy was a former member of Grace Episcopal Church and a member of St. Christopher’s Episcopal Church, Oxford, Pa. She enjoyed traveling with her husband to Italy, Alaska, Hawaii, Australia, New Zealand and to the national parks of the western United States. Dorothy enjoyed picnics and holiday meals with her family. She was an avid birdwatcher, enjoyed gardening and “could make rocks bloom.” She was a member of the Pennsylvania Farmers’ Association’s Women’s Association.
Dorothy was predeceased by her parents; her husband of 60 years, Albert A. Bartels Jr., and her great-granddaughter, Morgan MacDowell.
She is survived by her daughters, Dorie Galloway of Newark, and Jeanne Dyson of West Grove, Pa.; her sons, Richard, Edward and David Bartels of West Grove, Pa., and Albert Bartels III of Reynoldsville, Pa.; 12 grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; her brothers, Roland W. Nichols Jr., and James Nichols of Wilmington; and her sisters, Rhoena Williams of Hockessin, and Ruth Virden of Lewes.
Services will be at 1:30 p.m., Tuesday, July 29, at Grace Episcopal Church, 4906 Concord Pike, Wilmington. Burial will be in the adjoining cemetery. Friends may call Tuesday before the service from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., at the McCrery Memorial Funeral Home, 3924 Concord Pike, Talleyville.
In lieu of flowers contributions may be made in Mrs. Bartels’ memory to Grace Episcopal Church, at the address above, or the American Heart Association, 1501 Casho Mill Rd., #1, Newark, DE 19711.
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Harry William Taylor, Vietnam War veteran
Harry William Taylor, 56, of Georgetown, passed away Thursday, July 24, 2008, at Harbor Healthcare, Lewes.
Mr. Taylor was formerly employed with Teal Construction Company, Dover, as a construction worker.
He attended the 1st Baptist Church in Georgetown. Harry was a U.S. Army veteran of the Vietnam War. He loved Jesus and thought of himself as a servant of God’s Army, and he was a kind soul.
Harry is survived by his mother, Mary Taylor Moreland; two sons, Harry W. Taylor Jr. of Salisbury, Md., and James Taylor of Georgetown; three sisters, Clara Ann Webb and her husband William of Georgetown, Ruth Taylor Headley and her husband Lope of Georgetown, and Debra Jean Hudson and her husband Halton of Millsboro; three grandchildren; two nieces; and three nephews.
Services were held at the Watson Funeral Home, Millsboro, with interment in McColley’s Chapel Cemetery, Redden, north of Georgetown.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that contributions in memory of Harry be made to Vitas Hospice, 100 Commerce Drive, Suite 302, Newark DE 19713.
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William H. Barker, veteran, fireman
William H. Barker, 80, of Lewes, passed away Thursday, July 24, 2008, at Renaissance Health Care Center.
He was born Sept. 23, 1927, in Milton, son of the late Howard D. Barker and the late Margaret Morris Barker.
Mr. Barker began his career after a tour of duty in the U.S. Navy, as a party boat captain out of Fort Miles for the Army. He later worked at the Dover Air Force Base and then at the Naval Facility at Cape Henlopen where he was in charge of base housing. He had also worked over the years at Bastian’s Napa Auto Parts and was self-employed as an HVAC mechanic prior to his retirement.
Mr. Barker was a member of the Lewes Volunteer Fire Department, was formerly a member of the Milton Volunteer Fire Department and was a 32nd-degree mason with Jefferson Lodge in Lewes. He enjoyed spending time with his friends at the Renaissance Health Care Center and was especially fond of his time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
In addition to his parents, Mr. Barker was predeceased by his wife, Edna Dickerson Barker in 2001; his daughter, Carol Barker Connaway in 2007; and his grandson, Robert Dickson in 1996.
He is survived by his two granddaughters, Wendy Wall and her husband Bart of Lewes, and Terri Cooke and her husband Bob of Dover; three great-grandsons, Judson Wall, Timothy Wall and Robert Cooke; his sister, Mary Smialek of Milton; his brother, Franklin Barker of Elmer, N.J.; and his cousin, Clarence Barker of Lewes.
Masonic services followed by Christian funeral services with Pastor Charlie Arnold officiating will be held at 11 a.m., Wednesday, July 30, at Parsell Funeral Homes & Crematorium, Atkins-Lodge Chapel, 16961 Kings Highway, Lewes, where friends may call one hour prior to services. Interment with firemen’s and military honors will be at White’s Chapel Cemetery north of Lewes.
In lieu of flowers contributions are suggested to the Lewes Volunteer Fire Department, PO Box 225, Lewes, DE 19958.
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Linda Ann Stadtler, retired secretary
Linda Ann Stadtler, 65, of Rehoboth Beach, passed away peacefully at her home on Thursday, July 24, 2008, surrounded by her loving family.
She was born May 27, 1943, in Baltimore City, daughter of Robert E. Minton of Bishopville, Md. and the late Ann Foster Minton.
Mrs. Stadtler and her beloved husband relocated to Delaware 10 years ago from Ellicott City, Md. Mrs. Stadtler enjoyed a long career as a corporate secretary with Loyola Savings Bank in Baltimore. She was a member of St. Edmond’s Catholic Church and the Rehoboth Beach Country Club. She enjoyed gardening and loved spending time with her family, children, grandchildren and friends.
In addition to her father, Mrs. Stadtler is survived by her husband, Michael G. Stadtler; daughter Tracey Turner of Rehoboth Beach and her children Meghan, Melanie, Jack and Paul; her sister, Pamela Sue Dutton and her husband Robert of Bishopville, Md.; stepdaughter Jennifer Stadtler of Baltimore and her daughter, Ruby Jane; and stepson Michael Jr. and his wife Monica of Washington, D.C., and their children, Graham and Julia.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11 a.m., Tuesday, July 29, at St. Edmond’s Church, Kings Charles Avenue & Laurel Street, Rehoboth Beach. Interment will follow at Gate of Heaven Cemetery, 32112 Vine Creek Road, Dagsboro.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be sent to Delaware Hospice Center, 100 Patriots Way, Milford, DE 19963; or to Susan G. Koman Foundation, 5005 LBJ Freeway, Dallas, TX 75244.
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Margaret M. Petroski, health worker
Margaret M. Petroski, 85, of Lewes and formerly of New Castle, entered eternal life Tuesday, July 22, 2008, in Beebe Medical Center.
Born in Wilmington, the daughter of the late John and Rose McKnight Donahue, Margaret was known as the family Scrabble queen. She enjoyed reading, picking crabs and was renowned for her potato pancakes. She was a wonderful mom, grandmom, great-grandmom and great-great-grandmom. Mrs. Petroski had been employed with the Health Department in the City of Philadelphia.
She is preceded in death by her beloved husband of 54 years, Thomas “Big City” Petroski. Margaret was also predeceased by eight brothers and sisters, and three grandchildren, Robert McNichol, Shawn Woody and Brian Cervantes.
Left to cherish her memory are her children, Margaret Cervantes and her husband Wayne, and Clara McNichol, all of Lewes, Kathleen Petroski Keller of Texas, Pauline Petroski of Lewes, with whom Margaret had lived, Tom Petroski and his wife June of Philadelphia, Pa., Leo Petroski and his wife Eileen of Lewes, David Petroski and his wife Veronica of Philadelphia, and Josephine Petroski of Philadelphia; Margaret’s sister, Louise Petroski of North Carolina; 22 grandchildren, 32 great-grandchildren and 1 great-great-grandchild.
Mass of Christian Burial will be offered at 10 a.m., Tuesday, July 29, at Our Lady of Fatima Church, North DuPont Highway, New Castle. Burial will be in Holy Sepulchre Cemetery, Philadelphia, Pa.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to EWTN, 5817 Old Leeds Road, Irondale, AL 35210.
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Donald Alan Mercner, Korean War veteran
Donald Alan Mercner, 78, of Venice, Fla., formerly of Rehoboth Beach, died July 18, 2008.
Services were held Tuesday, July 22, at St. Mark’s Episcopal Church in Venice.
Survivors include his wife of 34 years, Peg; a brother, Richard of West Chester, Pa.; a son, Randolf of West Chester; daughters Patricia Davis of Ormond Beach, Fla., and Lynn Hyde of Duluth, Ga.; stepsons Randall Feher of Milton, and Charles Backus of Springboro, Ohio; stepdaughters Shelly Talmo of Milton and Susan Thompson of Galloway, N.J.; and eight grandchildren.
Don grew up in Bethlehem, Pa., attended Penn State University and remained a Nittany Lions fan his entire life.
He served his country during the Korean War and had several businesses of his own before settling in Venice in the late 1990s. Don is best remembered for his quick wit and helping hand. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Homes for Our Troops at www.homesforourtroops.org.
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