FERRAIOLO DOMINIC J. SR., Dec. 15, 2013. Beloved husband of Rita (nee DiTullio), devoted father of Dominic (Lizanne) Ferraiolo, Jr. and the late Alexander Ferraiolo, grandfather of Alex (Cristen), Gina, Alexis and Steven, great grandfather of Jovanna and Nylah, brother-in-law of Carmen (Ann) DiTullio and Frank Chiavrole; also survived by many nieces and nephews. Viewing Wednesday evening 7 to 9 P.M. from THE STOLFO FUNERAL HOME, 2536-38 S. Broad St. Also Viewing Thursday morning after 8 A.M. in the Funeral Home. Funeral Mass 9:30 A.M. in St. Monica Church, 17th and Ritner Sts. Interment SS. Peter and Paul Cemetery.

Junius Robert Clayton, 75, Marine veteran of Vietnam and shipyard worker

GIVE JUNIUS CLAYTON an old John Wayne Western to watch or a Nat King Cole or Frank Sinatra song to listen to and he was a happy man.

Junius, a 22-year veteran of the Marine Corps who served two combat tours in Vietnam, was not just a fan, he was a student. He could tell you the names of cast members in the old movies he loved and sing the lyrics he had memorized from his favorite songs.

In addition, Junius had memorized Bible passages, and used them to soothe his own soul and to inspire others, his family said.

Junius Robert Clayton, whose decorations included a medal from the Republic of Vietnam, given to combat veterans, a former employee of the Veterans Administration Hospital and the Philadelphia Naval Shipyard, died Nov. 27 of a heart condition. He was 75 and lived in the Northeast.

He was the second child born in Philadelphia to Junius Robert Clayton Sr. and Eureka Clayton. He graduated from John Bartram High School and joined the National Guard. Two years later, in 1956, he joined the Marines.

He served two tours in Vietnam, from 1966 to 1967, and 1968 to 1969. Among his decorations were the Vietnam Service Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Navy Unit Commendation Medal and the Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with palm.

He left the Marines a sergeant.

His son, Junius Clayton III, said his father never talked about his experiences in the war.

"Junius was a strong, dedicated and loyal Marine, a decorated Marine who proudly served his country," his family said. "He was 'Semper Fidelis - Always Faithful.'

"Junius had a huge heart and a gentle spirit. He enjoyed life to its fullest, and it was truly an honor to know him and to be in his presence."

After his service, Junius went to work at the Veterans Administration Hospital and later the Naval Shipyard, retiring in 1988.

He married Marcia A. Brown in 1959.

Besides his wife and son, he is survived by another son, Van J. Clayton; six daughters, Cheri D. Clayton, Marcia A. Anderson, Deborah D. Clayton-Sargent, Kim R. Grimes, Shirley V. Clayton and Cheryl L. Clayton; a brother, Bernard Clayton; a sister, Elaine Baugh; 22 grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren.

Services: 10 a.m. Saturday at Consolation Baptist Church, 2500 Wharton St. Friends may call at 8 a.m. Burial will be in Northwood Cemetery.
 

Patrick J. Gallagher, Sr., on October 19, 2013, Age 72, born in South Philadelphia, he was a U.S. Army Veteran, retired Superintendent Boilermaker Shop Philadelphia Naval Ship Yard, who operated Gallagher's Pack & Ship with his wife in Media, PA. Past President of the Springfield Youth Club, proud member of the following: Gallagher's Irish Society, Joseph E. Montgomery AOH Division #65, The Knights of Columbus DeLaSalle and The Greater Wildwood Elks Club #1896.
An avid Eagles and Phillies fan he enjoyed year round visits to his Wildwood Crest home with his grandchildren, family and friends. He was predeceased by his parents Daniel and Mary Gallagher and his brother Daniel. Survivors: Beloved husband of Kathleen M. (nee Copeland) Gallagher; father of Patrick J., Jr. (Jennifer), Daniel J. (Meaghan), Colleen Gallagher, Ellen (Frank) Cignetti and Brian Gallagher; brother of the late Daniel (Margie) Gallagher, Catherine (the late Frank) Armstrong, Mary (the late Frank) Martin, Anna May (Tom) Cocco, and Monica (Bill) Stefanik.
Also survived by 12 grandchildren. Services: Relatives and friends are invited to his viewing Thursday evening, 6-8p.m., at St. Francis of Assisi Church Saxer Ave., Springfield, where his Funeral Mass will be Friday morning, 11:00 a.m. There will also be a viewing at Ruffenach Funeral Home, 4900 Township Line Road, Drexel Hill, on Friday morning from 9-10a.m.
Interment: Private. In lieu of flowers: Donations in Pat's memory to The Springfield Youth Club, P.O. Box 231, Springfield, Pa. 19064 or Crozer Keystone Hospice @ Taylor Hospital, 175 E. Chester Pike, Ridley Park, Pa. 19078, would be appreciated.

King Hezekiah Sharp, 96, shipyard welder

GROWING UP in Southwest Philadelphia, Hezzie Sharp was said to be the most handsome boy in the neighborhood.

"He could have gotten any girl, but he only had eyes for Ruth," his family said.

That was Ruth Griffin, his childhood friend. As they grew older, friendship blossomed into love, and they married while still teenagers on Oct. 9, 1936.

Theirs was a love story that touched the hearts of family and friends. It endured for 60 years, until her death in 1997.


King Hezekiah "Hezzie" Sharp, a welder, devoted family man and church deacon, died Sept. 13. He was 96 and lived in West Philadelphia.

Hezzie was born in Ahoskie, N.C., to William P. and Mary Harrell Sharp. The family moved to Philadelphia when he was 4. He attended West Philadelphia High School.

He worked at the Philadelphia Naval Shipyard as a welder, and at Dodge Steel as a welder and burner. He retired in 1982.

His spiritual life began with Mount Zion Baptist Church, and in 1984 he joined Mount Carmel Baptist under the leadership of Pastor Albert Campbell.

He was ordained a deacon on Feb. 5, 1991, and became deacon emeritus on Nov. 13, 2005. He was a member of Men of Mount Carmel.

Hezzie was a longtime member of Masonic Corinthian Lodge 114, and later became a Shriner. Last July, he was honored as the oldest member of Corinthian Lodge 114.

"Hezzie was everyone's dad, grandpa and uncle, and became a great friend to everyone he met," his family said.

"His favorite line - especially to women - was, 'I'm doing fine now that I've seen you.' "

Everybody cherished his "wonderful smile," and were always awed by his phenomenal memory.

He is survived by two daughters, Ruth Ann Pigford and Zelvia Faire; a sister, Agnes Scranton; six grandchildren, 14 great-grandchildren, and four great-great-grandchildren.

Services: 11 a.m. tomorrow at Mount Carmel Baptist Church, 58th and Race streets. Friends may call at 9 a.m. Burial will be in Rolling Green Memorial Park.

Harry F. Ennis Jr., 91, WWII vet, shipyard foreman

Harry F. Ennis Jr., 91, of Williamstown, served his country during World War II, and then began a long career at the Navy Shipyard in Philadelphia, where he worked up to rigging foreman.

On Tuesday, Sept. 17, he passed away from congestive heart failure.

His children said he was a quiet yet strong man who worked hard.

From 1943 through 1946, he served in the Army, with deployments that included serving in the Philippines, Japan, Guam, and Samoa.


Although he spoke about combat and the war, his children said he shared fewer memories later in life.

"I do recall one time he said he was asleep in his sleeping bag in the Philippines and he felt a snake crawl across his stomach. He didn't know whether it was poisonous or not. He just laid still until it left," said Mr. Ennis' daughter Sandra Pacini.

Years after he left the Army, Mr. Ennis had nightmares about the war. "He would be startled awake from the bad dreams," said Pacini, one of three siblings.

Mr. Ennis maintained his relationship with other veterans. He was a post commander for the American Legion in South Philadelphia.

He decided to take a job at the Navy Shipyard, encouraged by his father, who talked of work that included a good salary, benefits, and a pension. In 1980, he retired.

In 1969, Mr. Ennis and his now-deceased wife, Sue, moved to South Jersey. They left their rowhouse at 15th and Pollock Streets and bought a single home in West Deptford.

Pacini said he enjoyed the holidays, especially Christmas, when he strung the outside lights. Inside, he raised the tree on a platform and constructed tracks for the model trains that circled the tree.

On Christmas Eve, she said, her father put the toys together for his children.

Jeannie McCloskey described her father as a "self-made craftsman." He had an extensive collection of books and woodworking tools that he kept in perfect condition.

Mr. Ennis' son, also Harry, said he has a rocking horse his father made about 20 years ago.

In Philadelphia, McCloskey said her father had built a basement bar that he also finished with tiles and mirrors.

"He taught himself how to make cabinets and shelves," McCloskey said. "Daddy was a generous man and considerate. He was caring to his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren."

Harry Ennis said his father also liked to go deep-sea fishing off the Jersey coast, at times heading out with three generations of the Ennis family. His tackle box included homemade fishing weights.

Ennis said his father was also an Eagles fan and held season tickets he shared with family and friends. On numerous occasions, he took his son.

In addition to his first wife, Mr. Ennis was preceded in death by his second wife, Mary, and a stepdaughter, Jacqueline Wisham. He is survived by his three children and two stepchildren, Candice Murphy and Maryellen Dietrich. He had 12 grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren.

Visitation is Monday, Sept. 23, from 9 to 10:30 a.m. at the McGuinness Funeral Home, 573 Egg Harbor Road, Washington Township. The funeral is scheduled for 11 a.m. at SS Peter & Paul Roman Catholic Church, 362 Ganttown Road, Sewell. Interment will follow at Gate of Heaven Cemetery, 300 White Horse Pike, Berlin.

Memorial contributions may be made to the American Heart Association, 1617 John F. Kennedy Blvd., Philadelphia, Pa. 19103.

Tributes and memories may be shared at www.mcgfuneral.com.

Evelyn Boss Cogan, 65, lawyer, professor

Evelyn Boss Cogan, 65, a professor at La Salle University, died Saturday, Sept. 14, of lung cancer at her home in Center City.

Known to friends as Evie, she fought an eight-year battle with cancer and chronicled the experience in a 2013 article for Philadelphia Lawyer magazine.

It started in 2005 with a bad cough, she wrote. After cancer was found in her right lung, a doctor told her to go home and get her affairs in order; she had six months to live.

Undaunted, she sought out Corey Langer, a doctor at Fox Chase Cancer Center, who scheduled chemotherapy, radiation, and more chemo.


"Life was good" for two years, until the cough returned in 2009. She applied for admission to a clinical trial at Massachusetts General Hospital tailored to those with a genetic mutation that makes certain lung cancer cells responsive to treatment.

"I could hardly contain my excitement when I made my first trip up to Boston, to get the first supply of pills," she wrote.

Two weeks later, the medicine had to be withdrawn when her liver enzymes were elevated. The pills were reinstated at a low dose, with good results. Eight months later, the clinical trial opened at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania.

"I feel so lucky to be a beneficiary of this exploding area of personalized cancer treatment. My hope for a miracle in the future is here and now," she wrote.

She had learned, she said, "there are no bounds to the joys of life. Grab them when you can."

Dwelling on the negative, she said, "wastes too much energy." She likened the vagaries of life to playing bridge, a game in which she excelled: "This is the hand I'm dealt. I'm going to play it the best that I can."

Throughout the often-grueling ordeal, "I never heard her complain once," said her son, Jonathan D. Cogan.

A native of Northeast Philadelphia, Mrs. Cogan graduated from George Washington High School and earned her bachelor's and law degrees from Temple University.

She joined the La Salle faculty in 1988 and taught business and the law until retiring in 2010. She previously worked at the federal Equal Employment Opportunity Commission and the Philadelphia Naval Shipyard.

Jonathan Cogan said his mother enjoyed teaching because she "liked the law and liked getting people interested in it. From the time I was a child, we would talk about the law together. She's one of the main reasons I decided to become a lawyer."

David Jones, chair of La Salle's marketing department, to which Mrs. Cogan belonged, said she was skilled at engaging students; she even took a theater course so her classes would be more lively.

Gregory Bruce, a former dean of La Salle's business school, described Mrs. Cogan as a wonderful colleague. "She was one of those people [that] if you were around her, you felt better," he said.

Mrs. Cogan married Philadelphia defense lawyer Dennis Cogan. The two divorced; she married Daniel Z. Louis in 2010 after they met through friends. "There was a spark," Louis said of their first date.

Besides her husband, former husband, and son, she is survived by a sister, Susan Kleiber, and two grandchildren.

Graveside services were Monday, Sept. 16, at King David Memorial Park in Bensalem.

Donations may be made to the Jane and Leonard Korman Lung Center, 834 Walnut St., Suite 650, Philadelphia 19107.

Michael P. Haig, 63, former inspector at Phila. shipyard

Michael P. Haig, 63, of Wenonah, who retired in 2006 as an inspector of submarine propellers at the Philadelphia Naval Shipyard, died of complications from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease Sunday, July 21, at his home.
Born in Philadelphia, Mr. Haig grew up in the Crescentville section and graduated from Northeast High School in 1968.
His entire career was spent at the shipyard, a sister, Kathy Kysor, said Thursday.
Mr. Haig did not have to work under the enormous submarines as they sat in dry docks, Kysor said.
"It was not dangerous," she said, because Mr. Haig inspected the repaired propellers "when they were being made."

His inspections required measurements "down to one-thousandth of an inch," she said. The work was "great, because he loved his math."
Though he had not gone beyond high school, the Navy sent him "once or twice to California for training. That's why he was so good in his job."
Also, she said, "he was very active at the Southwood Bar" in Woodbury.
"He had so many friends there. He would help close the bar and take care of the girls so they wouldn't have to walk to their cars by themselves.
"He was always very caring that way," she said, and in return, "the people there were his family away from home."
Mr. Haig was a member of the Knights of Columbus.
Besides his sister, he is survived by a brother and another sister Bonnie McCafferty.

A viewing was set from 10 to 10:45 a.m. Saturday, July 27, at St. Margaret Church, Third Avenue and Beech Street, Woodbury Heights, before an 11 a.m. Funeral Mass there, with burial in Holy Sepulchre Cemetery, Cheltenham.
Donations may be made to Susan G. Komen, Donor Services, Box 650309, Dallas, Texas. 75265-0309.
Condolences may be offered to the family at mcgfuneralhome.com.

William A. Martino  (x26)

William A. Martino "Bee", 66, of Folsom, formerly of the Meadows in Tinicum, passed away at his home surrounded by his loving family on March 29, 2013. William was the husband of Catherine Martin Martino. He is predeceased by one brother Joseph A. Martino and brothers-in-law Thomas Hughes and Samuel Troup. William was a Welder by trade and learned his craft at Sunship. He then worked at Westinghouse and later at the Philadelphia Naval Shipyard until his retirement. He was an accomplished Martial artist with a specialty in Japanese swordsmanship. He also was an avid weightlifter and boxer. Survivors: Along with his wife Catherine, William is survived by his son William J. and his wife Ashlee Martino of Springfield, PA. Siblings: his twin brother Charles "Cy" of Essington, Nicholas of Erial, NJ, Joan Hughes of Erial, NJ and Dolores Troup of Greensboro, NC. Also survived by numerous nieces and nephews. Services: Relatives and friends are invited to William's Life Celebration, Wednesday, 9:30-11AM, Our Lady of Peace R.C. Church, 208 Milmont Ave, Milmont Park, PA 19033, followed by his Funeral Mass at 11AM Interment: Saints Peter and Paul Cemetery, Springfield, PA In lieu of flowers: Contributions in William's memory may be made to the American Cancer Society (1-800-227-2345) Life Celebration Service: by James F. Knoetgen of Morton, 610-544-0600 To share your fondest memories of William: Please visit www.lifecelebration.com, 1-800-GIVNISH

Girard Mauro

Girard 'Jeep' Mauro, of Bensalem, Pa., passed away on July 9, 2013, at Langhorne Gardens Rehab Center. He was 77.

Born and raised in Philadelphia, he had been a resident of Bensalem since 1975. Mr. Mauro was a former employee of the Navy Shipyard in Philadelphia, Tuckers Ind., in Bensalem, and the Bucks County Playhouse in New Hope. He was also a U.S. Marine Corps and Army Veteran. He was a loving and caring family man who loved working and taking cruises with his wife.

He will be greatly missed by his wife of 48 years, Alice Mauro; his son, Stephen Mauro and his wife, Carol, of Levittown; daughter, Susan Mauro, of Bensalem; and grandchildren, Nicole, Stephen Jr., and Kyle.

Funeral services are private under the direction of the Galzerano Funeral Home. Interment will be in Washington Crossing National Veterans Cemetery. Galzerano Funeral Home

Bristol

JOSEPH F. "SPAVE" SPAVENTA

JOSEPH F. "SPAVE", on June 21, 2013. Former Philadelphia Naval Shipyard 920 Group Superintendent and Sheet Metal Shop Superintendent. Beloved husband of the late Mary Anne (nee Rough); loving father of Joseph and Mark (Gena); dear grand-father of Joseph (Jess), Theresa, Erika, Christina and Marlaina; great grandfather of Hailey, Christopher, Sirenna and Alaina; dearest brother of Barbara. Relatives and friends are invited to his Viewing WEDNESDAY Evening from 7:00 to 9:00 P.M. at the PENNSYLVANIA BURIAL CO., INC., 1327-29 S. Broad St. Funeral Mass SATURDAY Morning 10:00 A.M. St. Ann's Church, 2900 Pacific Ave., Wildwood, NJ. Interment St. Mary's Cemetery, 1056 Seashore Rd., Cape May, NJ.

KENNETH CHARLES HARRIS

Age 79 of Knoxville, passed away May 15, 2013. Mr. Harris was employed at the Philadelphia Naval Shipyard as a Shipfitter and a Shop Planner. He then transferred to NIPSO, then to NAVSEA 07. He later worked at the PEARL HARBOR Naval Shipyard as NAVSEA07’s Representative.

A Memorial Mass was held Sunday May 26, 2013, at 6:00 p.m. at All Saints Catholic Parish, 620 N Cedar Bluff Rd, Knoxville.

56 Shop Francis J. Van Horn
AGE: 72 • San Diego, CA

Francis J. Van Horn passed away peacefully on May 15, 2013 after being diagnosed with an aggressive form of lung cancer on May 1, 2013. Known to all his family and friends as Fran or Franny, he was born on October 29, 1940 in Camden, NJ to John E. and Louise M. (Borel) Van Horn. He was preceded in death by his parents and his younger sister, Patricia A. Hewitt. Fran is survived by his loving wife of 26 years, Susan (Blasband), and their daughter Lindsay. He is also survived by his four children, John of Jacksonville, FL, Lisa Lang (Mike) of Sewell, NJ, Michael of Sewell, NJ, and Jennifer Cody (Chris) of Turnersville, NJ, and their families. Additionally, he is survived by his brother-in-laws, Thomas Hewitt, and his family, and Andrew Blasband, and his family, as well as many cherished relatives and friends.

After graduating from Merchantville High School in 1958, Fran began his civil service career with the United States Navy at the Philadelphia Naval Shipyard as a journeyman pipefitter. He advanced at the same facility to serve in his last position as their senior Group Superintendent from 1988 to 1994. Moving to San Diego in 1994, Fran joined the Navy Public Works Center as the Operations Officer. He served in that position until 1998 when asked to assume the Maintenance Department Head position. In 2005, Fran became the Director of Operations Support. He served in this position until his retirement in 2011, after 43 years of service.

FRANCIS X. FRANK BROGAN
 

BROGAN
FRANCIS X. 'FRANK', on May 23, 2013, of Alexandria, VA., formerly of Philadelphia, PA. Beloved husband of the late Marie C. (nee Rheinwalt) Brogan; beloved father of Marie A. (Michael) Salvadore, Francis X. (Teresa) Brogan Jr., Donna Marie (Mario) Memmo and the late Dolores Kathleen Taylor; father-in-law of Matthew Taylor; loving grandfather of 8 grandchildren and one great-grandchild; brother of Maureen Tropiano and the late Elizabeth Accuazzo. Relatives and friends are invited to his Funeral Mass Wednesday 10:30 A.M. Church of St. Kevin, 200 W. Sproul Rd., Springfield, PA. 19064 and to his Viewing Wednesday after 9:30 A.M. in the Church. Interment SS. Peter and Paul Cemetery. Contributions to Lupus Foundation of America Inc., Phila. Tri-State Chapter, 500 Old York Rd., Suite 110, Jenkintown, PA. 19046.

JOSEPH E. COSTELLO

COSTELLO JOSEPH E., of Doylestown, PA passed away on Monday, May 20, 2013 in Doylestown Hospital, Doylestown, PA. He was 85 years old. Born in Philadelphia, PA to the late John and Mary Cole Costello, Joseph was a lifelong resident of Philadelphia before moving to Doylestown a year ago. He was formerly employed as a Ship Fitter and later a Metal Inspector with the Philadelphia Naval Yard for 35 years before retiring. Joseph was a World War II Naval Veteran and also enjoyed fishing, fixing things and spending time with his grandchildren.

Joseph is survived by his beloved wife of 59 years, Elizabeth Costello, devoted father of Kathleen (John) Diem, Marianne (Michael) Sawa, dear brother of Helene (John) Mayza, loving grand-father of Kelly (Greg), Jeffrey, Elizabeth, Joseph, Emily, Stephen and Carolyn, cherished great-grandfather of Matthew and Thomas.

At Joseph's request, cremation services were private under the direction of VARCOE-THOMAS FUNERAL HOME, Doylestown, PA. Interment will be private in the Washington Crossing National Cemetery, Newtown, PA. In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital or www.stjude.org would be appreciated. Send condolences to www.varcoethomasfuneralhome.com

MICHAEL ROSATI had never sung in an opera, but he was eager to participate when he had the opportunity to be part of the chorus in a production of "Aida" in New York's Central Park in June.

So what if he was in his early 80s? It made no difference to him. He still had a voice and he was practicing to lend that voice to the special demands of opera.

But it was not to be. He died Saturday of cancer.

Michael Rosati, an Air Force veteran who worked in the family plumbing business and as a pipe fitter at the old Philadelphia Naval Shipyard and whose passions included singing, coaching baseball and golf, was 82 and lived in Malvern, Chester County.

The chance to sing in an opera was something he really wanted to do, said his wife of 59 years, the former Joan Boyd. "His death was so unexpected," she said.

Michael's interest in music actually began in the Air Force. He played the saxophone and clarinet in an Air Force band at Chanute Air Force Base in Illinois.

"He said he got tired of playing the national anthem," his wife said.

After his discharge, he played in some pickup jazz bands and performed at Philadelphia-area venues for a time.

Michael went on to sing sacred music with the choir at his church, St. Patrick's in Malvern, the Philadelphia Archdiocesan Choir and the Collegiate Choir. He sang with the Archdiocesan Choir at Mass at the National Shrine of St. Rita of Cascia in South Philadelphia for many years.

When his sons became old enough to play baseball, Michael began coaching them in teams in Great Valley Little League.

"He loved the kids," his wife said. "He earned his nickname 'Flap' as a coach. If the boys started arguing with an umpire over a bad call, he would tell them he would do it. The kids would say, 'There he goes, out there flapping with the umpire.' "

Michael Rosati was born in West Philadelphia to Anthony and Philomena Rosati. He graduated from John Bartram High School in 1948, and enlisted in the Air Force.

He later worked with his brother, Joseph, in the family plumbing business in Clifton Heights, then went to work at the Naval Shipyard until it closed in 1995.

He married Joan A. Boyd, a native of the "Meadows" in Southwest Philadelphia, in 1954. They moved to Malvern in the early '60s.

Michael loved to play golf and would play at Pickering Golf Club in Phoenixville, where he worked as a volunteer to pay his greens fees.

He was also a devoted gardener and his tulips have just started to bloom.

"He was dedicated no matter what he did," his wife said. "He never gave up on anything. And he loved to talk. He would buttonhole people, and sometimes we had to rescue them."

Besides his wife, he is survived by two daughters, Karen Walker and Jo-Ann Funkhouser; four sons, Michael, Richard, Christopher and Kenneth Rosati; two sisters, Helen Marinozzi and Rosalie Brennan; and 17 grandchildren.

Services: Funeral Mass 11 a.m. Saturday at St. Patrick Church, 104 Channing Ave., Malvern. Friends may call at 6 p.m. Friday at D'Anjolell Memorial Home of Broomall, 2811 West Chester Pike, Broomall. Burial will be in Philadelphia Memorial Park, Frazer.

Contributions may be made to Neighborhood Hospice, 400 E. Marshall St., West Chester, Pa. 19380

John E. Lange (1949 - 2013)

John E. Lange Former PNSY 51 Shop General Foreman

AGE: 63 • Barrington

John E. Lange, of Barrington, passed peacefully on April 27, 2013, surrounded by his family. Age 63. Beloved husband of Sandra (nee Moritz). Devoted father of Steven, Alex and his wife Lindsay and Kevin and his wife Tara. Loving grandfather of Chloe Ava and Maya Elizabeth. Dear brother-in-law of Janet McNamee. Loving uncle of Kyle McNamee. John worked for the Philadelphia Naval Shipyard, Shop 51, for 35 years. He was a US Army veteran. Relatives and friends are invited to attend the viewing Wednesday morning from 9 to 11am at GARDNER FUNERAL HOME, RUNNEMEDE. Funeral Service Wednesday 11am at the funeral home. Entombment New St. Mary's Mausoleum, Bellmawr. In lieu of flowers the family requests that donations be made in John's name to the Animal Adoption Center, P O Box 4017, Lindenwold, NJ 08021.

Mary P. Rahill of Holland died Sunday, April 28, 2013, at Holy Redeemer Hospice. She was 84.

She was the beloved wife of the late Eugene Rahill.

Born in Philadelphia, she was the daughter of the late William and Frances Fox Wixted; and mother of the late Maureen Crowthers and Joseph Rahill.

Mary was a resident of Holland for the past 26 years.

She was a graduate of St. Anne's Business School, Philadelphia. She worked for D.I. S. C. at the Philadelphia Naval Yard for more than 20 years before her retirement in 1991. Mary was a faithful communicant of St. Bede the Venerable Church.

Family was first and foremost in Mary's life, her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren gave her the most comfort, and on occasion she enjoyed a game chance.

She will be deeply missed by all who came to know and love her.

Mary is survived by her children and their spouses, Gene J. Rahill and his wife, Sandy, Robert F. Rahill and his wife, Dolores, Francis X. Rahill and his wife, Joni, Jerry E. Rahill and his wife, Pina; her son-in-law, Gary Crowthers, and daughter-in-law, Patricia Rahill. She also is survived by one brother Gerald Wixted; 19 grandchildren; and 20 great-grandchildren.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend her viewing from 10 a.m. until her funeral Mass at noon Wednesday, May 1, at St. Bede the Venerable Church, 1071 Holland Road, Holland. Interment will be held privately in Holy Sepulchre Cemetery, Cheltenham.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in her name may be made to Holy Redeemer Hospice 12265 Townsend Road, Philadelphia, PA 19154. www.fluehr.com

BOCHANSKI ,GEORGE V., born in Philadelphia on September 4, 1921 to the late Joseph and Helen Bochanski. Mr. Bochanski most recently resided in Secane, PA., but lived in Sharon Hill, PA for more than 50 years and was a faithful and active parishioner of Holy Spirit Church for over 60 years.

He was married for 56 years to the late Irene M. McLaughlin. He was a combat-wounded Army infantry veteran who saw action in France and Germany during World War II and received the Purple Heart with Oak Leaf Cluster and the Bronze Star.

Mr. Bochanski retired as a Group Superintendent from the Philadelphia Naval Shipyard in 1985. During his 35 year career, he held positions of increasing responsibility in the rigging group (72 Shop) at the shipyard. He was Vice President of the National Association of Supervisors - Federal Government (now the Federal Managers Association) and a graduate of The Comey Institute of Industrial Relations at Saint Joseph's University.

Never known to be idle, following retirement Mr. Bochanski remained busy with renovation projects at his summer home in North Wildwood, NJ and at the homes of numerous family members throughout the area.

Mr. Bochanski is survived by his six children: Irene M. Hart (Thomas) of Glenolden, PA; George V. Bochanski, Jr. (Kathleen), of Lansdowne, PA; Francis X. Bochanski (Joanne) of Turnersville, NJ; John J. Bochanski (Virginia) of Sewell, NJ; Theodore W. Bochanski (Cynthia) of Folcroft, PA; and Joseph P. Bochanski of Williamstown, NJ. He was also the father-in-law of the late Deborah Bochanski, wife of Joseph. Mr. Bochanski had 25 grandchildren and 23 great-grandchildren.

Visitation will be from 9 to 10:30 am on Tuesday, March 5th at Holy Spirit Church, Sharon Hill, PA followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:30 am. Burial will be at Holy Cross Cemetery in Yeadon, PA. In lieu of flowers contributions may be made in his name to the Holy Spirit Memorial Fund, 1028 School Street, Sharon Hill, PA 19079

William I. Ott Jr.

William I. Ott, Jr., age 78 of Pitman, NJ passed away on Thursday, November 29, 2012. Born in Mantua, NJ, he had been a resident of Pitman since 1959. Bill graduated from Pitman High School Class of 1952 where he served as class Vice President and was a recipient of the Gold Star Memorial Award for athletics. Bill's family farmed throughout South Jersey. After high school he enlisted in the Navy and later worked at the Philadelphia Naval Shipyard where he retired in 1989 as Superintendent of Woodworkers. Bill enjoyed hunting, fishing with his sons and grandson and was a member of the Delsea Beagle Club in Elmer and the Red Top Gun Club. He was also a member of the Mantua Masonic Lodge #95 for 50 years.. Husband of the late Norma B. (nee Jackson), he is survived by son, William I. Ott, III and his wife Carol of Alloway, NJ and their son William I. Ott IV., and son, Steven R. Ott, Sr. and his wife Annette of Wilmington, DE, and their children, Angela, Alicia, Maria, and Steven Jr. He was predeceased by his sisters: Catherine Schnee and her husband Ralph, and Ruth Cattell and her husband Art. Relatives and friends may visit with the family from 6 to 8 PM Friday, December 7 and 10 to 11 AM Saturday, December 8 at SMITH FUNERAL HOME, 47 Main St., Mantua, NJ where a funeral service will be held at 11 AM. Interment will be in Wenonah Cemetery. Contributions in Bill's memory may be made to Alzheimer's Association, 3 Eves Dr, Marlton, NJ 08053. Memories and condolences may be shared at www.smithfhmantua.com

Gerald P. Lanzilotti

AGE: 69 • Atco

Gerald P. Lanzilotti age 69yrs. of Atco, NJ passed away on October 27, 2012. Mr. Lanzilotti was born and raised in Phila. and moved to Atco in 1972. He is survived by his wife Virginia (nee Kollar), his daughter Susan Collins (Michael) a son, Gerald J. Lanzilotti and four grandchildren, Francesco, Zachary, Lindsey and Randy Jay. Gerald retired in 1998 from the US Naval Shipyard in Philadelphia as the Assistant Director of Inactive Ships.

A Mass to celebrate Gerald's life will be celebrated at 12:00 noon, November 10, 2012 at the St. Vincent de Paul Roman Catholic Church, 5201 Harding Highway, Mays Landing, NJ 08330. The family requests that no flowers be sent.

Stan was in an terrible car accident on his way home from work on Monday 12/10 and passed away on early Saturday morning.

Stanley H. Legoskey (1958 - 2012)

AGE: 54 ? Pine Hill

Stanley Henry was suddenly taken from us on December 15, 2012. He is survived by his beloved wife of 34 years, Carol Legoskey (nee Rowand). Loving father of Joel (Michelle), Jason, Joshua, Jenna, JaKhira, JaKiere, & Eduardo, and was also a father figure and mentor to many other children. He is also survived by his mother, Cecelia Legoskey of Springfield, GA; his siblings Tom Legoskey, "Missie" Douberly, Cathy Blankenship, "Ree Ree" Wonnink, & Linda Ponton; mother-in-law Irene "YoYo" Rowand; sister-in-law Irene Angelow; and many loving neighbors, extended family, and friends. Stanley served in the U.S. Navy during the Vietnam War, and worked for the Philadelphia Naval Shipyard, Naval Air Station Joint Reserve Base Willow Grove, and Fort Dix/McGuire Installation as a Mechanical Engineer. Relatives and friends are invited to attend his viewing Thursday evening 6-9pm and Friday morning 10-11am at the ORA L. WOOSTER FUNERAL HOME, 51 Park Blvd., Clementon, NJ 08021. Funeral Services will begin at 11am. Cremation will be held privately following the services. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the Legoskey Family c/o the Ora L. Wooster Funeral Home for JaKhira & JaKiere's Education Fund. Please share your memories at OraLWoosterFuneralHome.com.

Rob Schiller

ex 38 Shop

Raymond P. Thrash

Raymond P. Thrash of Burlington passed away Wednesday, Oct. 24, 2012, in Samaritan Hospice Inpatient at Virtua Hospital, Mount Holly.

Born and raised in Luzerne County, Pa., he was longtime Burlington resident.

Ray served his country in the U.S. Navy during the Vietnam War and U.S. Naval Reserve during Cuban Missile Crisis. He served aboard the Destroyer Borie. He then went to work as a marine machinist for Westinghouse the U.S. Naval Shipyard in Philadelphia, and then at The Ball Corporation, before his retirement.

He was a former Little League coach in Burlington City, who also enjoyed playing cards, '500 Rummy,' fishing and hunting.

He also belonged to Tin Cup Sailors Veterans group and was a parishioner of St. Paul's RC Church.

Raymond is survived by his wife of 50 years, Elizabeth (Cohen); daughter, Patt Ferrari (Michael), son, Shaun (Maryann); siblings, Harold (Selma), Gene (Rosemarie), Marie Kotansky, Marian Ayre, Judy Krouse; and his beloved dog, Scotty.

The family invites friends to his viewings and funeral. Viewings will be held at Page Funeral Home, 302 E. Union St., Burlington from 7 to 9 p.m. Friday, and also from 8:30 to 9:30 a.m. Saturday. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated in St. Paul's Roman Catholic Church at 10 a.m. Saturday, with burial to follow in Laurel Hill Cemetery, Burlington.

Donations may be made in his name to either St. Paul's Renovation fund C/O St. Katharine Drexel Parish, 223 E. Union St., Burlington, NJ 08016 or to the Burlington County Animal Shelter, 35 Academy Drive, Westampton, NJ 08060.

Messages of sympathy may be emailed to his family from the funeral home's Web site listed below. Page Funeral Home, Burlington

Joseph F. Del Grande, 64, of Glen Mills, formerly of Norwood, passed away peacefully on August 16, 2012 at his home. He was born May 1, 1948 in Norwood the son of Gloria M. (nee Ciampi) Del Grande and the late Joseph Anthony Del Grande. Mr. Del Grande worked as an engineer at the Philadelphia Naval Yard, was a U.S. Army Veteran of the Vietnam War and was an active parishioner at St. Thomas the Apostle Catholic Church in Glen Mills where he was also very involved. In addition to his father he was also preceded in death by his wife Anne Marie (nee Czyzewski / Casey) Del Grande and his brother Anthony Del Grande. In addition to his mother he is also survived by his two sons Christopher and Michael Del Grande; his brother Stephen Del Grande; and also survived by his nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. Relatives and friends are invited to his visitation Thursday from 9:15am until his Funeral Mass at 10:30am in the Church of St. Thomas the Apostle, Valleybrook Rd., Glen Mills. Interment will follow in St. Thomas the Apostle Catholic Cemetery, Glen Mills. Memorial contributions may be made in Joseph's memory to Taylor Hospice Residence 300 Johnson Ave. Ridley Park, PA 19078.

Funeral Services
Thursday, August 23
9:15 AM to 10:30 AM
Church of St. Thomas the Apostle
430 Valleybrook Rd. Glen Mills, PA 19342

JOSEPH J. BROOKS
 

BROOKS, JOSEPH J. 73 - of North Cape May passed away suddenly on Thursday, July 19, 2012. Born in Philadelphia, he has been a Cape May area resident since 1996. Joseph served his country in the US Navy. He was a truck driver working from the Teamsters Union Local 107 of Philadelphia until 1978 when he began working at the Philadelphia Naval Shipyard. Joseph became a Marine Machinist Foreman there retiring in 1995. He was last employed at the Wagging Tail Pet Grooming from 1996 to the present. Joseph was a member of the Parish of St John Neumann and was an avid bowler. He is survived his wife of 53 years Patricia Anne Brooks; his sons: Joseph C Brooks of Philadelphia, Pa, Daniel Brooks of Ft. Lauderdale, FL, and Donald Brooks of North Cape May; and his daughter Patricia Anne Brooks of Chester County, PA. Also surviving are 13 grandchildren and three great grandchildren. There will be a funeral service at 9:00 PM on Tuesday, July 24, 2012 at the Evoy Funeral Home, 3218 Bayshore Rd, North Cape May, NJ 08204; where friends will be received from 7:00 to 9:00 PM. To share condolences, please visit www.evoyfuneralhome.com.

38 Shop Foreman

Helen Carrington, hairdresser, dies at 91

Like a lot of retired people, Helen E. Gwathney Carrington needed something extra to keep her busy.

True, she was an accomplished hairdresser, but after her retirement from the old Strawbridge & Clothier store, she had time on her hands. It was then that a niece taught her quilting, and Helen seized on the new art form with her customary passion and devotion to detail.

"A new Helen evolved," her family said. "She made the most beautiful quilts you ever wanted to see, by hand stitching."

Helen Carrington, whose work life also included a stint as a welder at the old Philadelphia Naval Shipyard, a devoted Catholic active in her church and a loving mother of two, died May 26 of complications of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. She was 91, living in a nursing home, but lived for many years in West Philadelphia.

She was born in Philadelphia to Blanche Jay and Albert Gwathney. She attended the Apex Beauty Culture School and earned a beautician’s license.

In 1948, she married Frederick Carrington. Although they had no children of their own, they became parents to two children whom Helen raised as her own: James Lambert and Denise Boggs-Lewis.

At a young age, she went to work as a welder at the Naval Shipyard, then became a popular hairstylist, working out of her home. After the children entered high school, Helen went to work at a series of jobs, including the Chilton Factory, John Wanamaker’s and Strawbridge’s. She retired in 1999, but continued doing hair.

Her church life began at St. Charles Borromeo, in South Philadelphia. After moving to West Philadelphia, she joined Transfiguration of Our Lord Parish and was a loyal member until it closed in 2000. She and the other parishioners then transferred their devotion to St Cyprian’s, where she remained until her illness.

As a young woman, Helen belonged to a social club called the Over Twenty One, which sponsored a youth basketball team called the Cavaliers.

In 1963, she put daughter Denise into the Philadelphia School of Dance Arts under the direction of Joan Myers Brown. Helen was president of the Mothers Club.

After being unable to care for herself, she and her older sister, Louise, went to live in the Caring Heart Nursing Home. Louise died in January.

Her family described Aunt Helen, as she was called, as "regal, elegant, tall, red-haired., known for style, especially her hats. A very domineering persona — my way or the highway — with a heart of gold.

“All services performed by her -- to the slightest detail -- for herself or for others, were done carefully, systematically, to perfection.

“On occasion, Helen had been respectfully and affectionately called ‘Our Gestapo.’ None the less, she was ours."

Her children are her survivors.

Services: 10 a.m. Monday at St. Cyprian Church, 525 Cobbs Creek Parkway. Friends may call at 9 a.m. Burial will be in Glenwood Memorial Gardens, West Chester.

To whom it may concern;
My twin brother Joseph P. DiEgidio suddenly passed away on 15 May 2012. He was in 07 shop.
He will be greatly missed. We were both in 07 shop when the shipyard closed, and we did miss it.

Stephen F. DiEgidio
540 898 5048

Ernest Strother
 

ERNEST Strother was not really a born renegade, but he couldn't stand injustice when he encountered it.

That acute sense of right and wrong that guided him all his life might have had its origin in the segregated South of his childhood.

It was when he was in 10th grade at Abbeville High School, in Abbeville, S.C., in the early '30s that Ernest became aware that the "separate but equal" doctrine followed by many Southern school districts was a farce.

The whites-only and blacks-only schools were separate, all right, but rarely equal. Something inside young Ernest Strother rebelled, and he demanded that the school for African-Americans that he attended be given the same facilities as the neighboring white schools.

He was branded a troublemaker and expelled.

However, the more-enlightened school board overruled the administration and reinstated the young rebel.

Ernest Lewis Strother Sr. went on to graduate from a high school in Atlanta, moved to Philadelphia to raise his family and worked 35 years as a chef for an insurance company and became a pillar of the Presbyterian Church.

He died of heart failure on April 10. He was 96 and was living in the Broomall Presbyterian Home in Delaware County, but had lived for many years in West Philadelphia.

Ernest was a 33rd Degree Mason and was active in the Boy Scouts and the NAACP. His community and church work earned him an honor from the Chapel of the Four Chaplains.

He was also a dedicated traveler, visiting 49 states, Mexico, South America, the Caribbean and Canada.

Ernest was the first African-American male lay moderator of the Philadelphia Presbytery. He was also the first African-American moderator of the Presbyterian Men of the Synod. He was the oldest continuous member of the board of Presbytery Homes & Services.

He attended eight Presbyterian General Assemblies and served as a commissioner. He was a member of the National Black Presbyterian Caucus, and served on numerous standing and ad hoc committees.

Over the years, many Presbyterians also sampled his culinary expertise.

Ernest was born in Royston, Ga., the oldest of the four children of Lucy Perrin and Lemuel Strother. He graduated from Washington High School in Atlanta in 1933.

He moved to Philadelphia in 1936. He attended Temple University and the University of Pennsylvania, but did not graduate, due to family responsibilities. He married Catherine D. Bentley in 1939.

During World War II, Ernest worked as a weaponry calibrator at the Philadelphia Naval Shipyard. After the war, he worked in food service for the Provident Mutual Insurance Co., retiring in 1970. He was a certified executive chef.

He was a member of the Delaware Valley Professional Chefs Association and Explorer Post 650 of the Boy Scouts. He also was a member of the Association of Parliamentarians.

Ernest was a member of the former Reeve Memorial Presbyterian Church before it was dissolved in June 2005. He then joined Overbrook Presbyterian Church.

"He is remembered for his sense of humor, kindliness and sense of justice," his family said. "He always wanted to be known for taking the high road. Late in life, he inspired others with his optimism and grace.

"His motto was 'Every day is a bonus.' "

He is survived by two sons, Ernest Jr. and Robert George; a sister, Essie Patterson; a brother, Robert H. Strother Sr.; three grandchildren and a great-grandson.

Services: Memorial service 11 a.m. April 23 at Overbrook Presbyterian Church, 6376 City Ave. A Masonic service will begin at 10 a.m.

Donations may be made to Presbyterian Children's Village, Development Office, 452 S. Roberts Road, Rosemont, PA 19010.

ROBERT TRACZYK PASSED AWAY ON WEDNESDAY APRIL 4,2012. THE FORMER 56 SHOP SUPERVISOR WAS A RESIDENT OF LAKE WORTH,FLA. AT THE TIME OF HIS PASSING. HE IS SURVIVED BY HIS WIFE JOAN. HE WAS BURIED WITH MILITARY HONORS APRIL 11,2012 AT SOUTH FLORIDA NATIONAL CEMETERY. HE WILL BE MISSED BY ALL.

COULD YOU LIST THIS AS IS IN THE YARDBIRD OBITS? THANKS

michael jasionis

Wesley T. Tilghman Sr., Marine, church deacon
 

WESLEY TYRONE Tilghman Sr. had two loves in his life: his family and his church.

Unless you count the Marines. All Marines love the Corps.

In fact, Wesley was stationed at Camp Lejeune in North Carolina when he fell for Diane Alfreda Hawkins and married her on the base in 1974.

So the Marine Corps held fond memories for him.

Wesley Tilghman, former employee of the Philadelphia Naval Shipyard who later worked out of Laborers Union Local 332, a church deacon who was always available for whatever his churches needed doing, died March 27 of complications of diabetes. He was 58 and lived in South Philadelphia.

"He was very loving and supportive," said his daughter Chelsie. "The one word that would describe him would be loving. He loved his family and his church family unconditionally."

Wesley was born in Philadelphia, the youngest of the eight children of Lucille Farmbry and Samuel Tilghman. He attended Bok Vocational High School before entering the Marines. He served stateside.

After his discharge, he worked as a boiler cleaner at the shipyard, and then went with Local 332, from which he retired in 2009.

"Deacon Tilghman found joy in serving God, spending time with his family, pleasing others, working, singing on the choir, serving on the praise and worship team, and providing for his family," his family said.

He served first at the Baptist Church of the Redeemer, and was later ordained a deacon at New Comfort Baptist Church. He also served House of Prayer Baptist and Mount Hebron Baptist Church, where he became vice president of the Deacon Board.

Wesley enjoyed singing in choirs, especially his favorite hymn, "He's Sweet, I Know," made famous by Mahalia Jackson:

I can't forget when I was sad,

Head hanging down and my soul feeling bad.

But all I could say was, "Lord take my heart."

Jesus heard me praying and he gave me a song.

Wesley was a handyman who enjoyed working on home repairs. He was famous in the family for his 7UP cake, and enjoyed treating family and friends at gatherings at his home.

"Most of all, he took pride in bragging about his children," his family said.

Besides his wife and daughter, he is survived by another daughter, Tyesha; two sons, Wesley Jr. and Rashiem; an adopted son, Glenn; two brothers, Chester and Jerry; three sisters, Barbra, Ardena and Mary; 12 grandchildren and one great-grandson.

Services: Were Saturday. Burial was at Eden Cemetery, Collingdale.

Blanche Edna Partlow, active churchwoman, dies at 82

BLANCHE Edna Partlow was a fervent churchwoman, a selfless caretaker of the needy, a generous mother and friend - but you didn't cross her.

"Blanche kept people in line with a stern look and a balled fist," her family said. "She was a no-nonsense lady and always insisted on being on time."

When she presided over a church feeding ministry for the poor, she told her helpers: "Those tables better be set properly."

Blanche Partlow, who worked in food retail for many years, a careful shopper who could "squeeze the life out of a handful of coupons," and a devoted family matriarch, died March 20 after a lengthy illness. She was 82 and lived in Germantown.

Blanche had fond memories of paying 50 cents for a ticket at the Earle Theater to see the likes of Count Basie, Sarah Vaughan, Ella Fitzgerald, Frank Sinatra, Nat King Cole and other stars of the era - plus a movie.

She was born in Philadelphia to Romlous DeMassey Pace and Sadie Cook Pace. She attended the Joseph E. Hill School, Roosevelt Junior High and Germantown High School.

In her youth she worked as a babysitter, a dishwasher, and a model for Adolph's Beauty Products. In 1945, she started at the Penn Fruit Co. as a bagger and worked her way up to head cashier, the first African-American to hold the position.

Later, she worked for the commissary at the Naval Shipyard. When Penn Fruit went out of business, Blanche worked for the Super Fresh Market Co. She retired in 1984.

She married James Ferson Partlow in 1954.

Blanche was a Democratic committeewoman for 10 years, and a judge of election in the 29th Division of the 10th Ward for 20 years.

"Blanche was quick to start a conversation with anyone she met and made those in her company smile at her sharp wit," her family said.

She joined Mount Zion Baptist Church of Germantown in her teens and was a devoted and active member for 63 years.

She also was a member of the Winston Memorial Gospel Choir, the Outreach Feeding Ministry, Bible Club, J.Q. Jackson Memorial Scholarship Committee, the May Circle, Fellowship Guild and the Repast ministries.

"Blanche was a fervent shopper who seemed to shop for everyone but herself," her family said. "She was very giving, always buying and giving gifts and keepsakes out to friends and family."

She liked to watch TV soap operas, and took monthly jaunts to the Atlantic City casinos. She collected handbags and shoes, favoring the work of Etienne Aigner, the Hungarian designer of high-end fashion products.

" . . . Blanche was a hard worker and dutiful servant," her family said, "and always took the time to have dinner on the table every night for her family."

She also is survived by two sons, David and Mark; a daughter, Marie Williams; a sister, Renee Collquitt; 13 grandchildren and a great-grandson.

Services: 11 a.m. Friday at Mount Zion Baptist Church of Germantown, 41 W. Rittenhouse St. Friends may call at 9 a.m. Burial will be in Ivy Hill Cemetery

Joseph J. Welch

Joseph J. Welch, 71, of West Deptford, on March 17, 2012. Joseph was born in Philadelphia and has resided in West Deptford for 20 years. He was a planning manager at the Philadelphia Naval Shipyard for 38 years, retiring in 1995. Joseph was a member of the Presbyterian Church at Woodbury and the Woodbury Kiwanis Club. He volunteered for Make A Wish Foundation and the Emmanuel Cancer Foundation. Joseph is survived by his wife of 17 years Susan (nee Brennan); son Joseph W. of Bellmawr; daughter Catherine E. Welch of West Deptford & grandson Dylan Joseph Welch. Visitation Saturday 10am until the Memorial Service at 11am at the Presbyterian Church at Woodbury 67 S. Broad St. Woodbury, NJ under the direction of DAVIS & WAGNER FUNERAL & CREMATION SERVICES Woodbury, NJ. Interment Woodbury Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers please make donations to Make-A- Wish of NJ at nj.wish.org. Memories & condolences shared at daviswagner.com

William A. Franchi, Sr.

AGE: 80 • Oaklyn

William A. Franchi, Sr., on March 13, 2012, 53 year resident of Oaklyn, NJ, age 80. Beloved husband of the late Janet (nee Schrepper). Loving father of William A. Franchi, Jr., Michelle Varvaro, and Jack Franchi (Beth). Cherished grandfather of Jack, Robert, Allyson, Jennifer, Sam, Nicholas and Michael. Dear brother of Natalie Muldoon, Philip Franchi, Sr. and the late Vincent, Anna Miller, Jake, Albert, Samuel and Guisseppi, loving son of the late Giustino and Mary (nee Russo). He is also survived by his many nieces and nephews.

Bill, "Poops" to his many friends, grew up in the Sweet Potato Hill section of Camden. He was a proud U.S. Air Force Veteran of the Korean War and was a member of the Oaklyn American Legion Post #84 and Oaklyn VFW Post # 4463. Bill worked for many years at NY Ship in Camden and finished his career as a rigger at the Philadelphia Naval Shipyard from which he retired in 1996. He was the last original member of the Oaklyn Manor Bar Clam Bake, loved playing cards with his friends and gardening, but nothing could trump his love for spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren.

Relatives and friends are invited to meet Sunday evening from 6:00 to 9:00 PM and again Monday morning from 10:00 to 11:00 AM at St. Joseph the Worker Parish, St. Aloysius Church, 37 W. Haddon Ave., Oaklyn. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11:00 AM. Interment will follow at New St. Mary's Cemetery in Bellmawr. In lieu of flowers the family has requested memorial donations in Bill's name be made to American Lung Association Of NJ, 1031 Rt. 22 West, Suite 203, Bridgewater, NJ 08807. Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to CRERAN FUNERAL HOME, OAKLYN, NJ www.creranfh.com

JOHN ROLAND SMITH, on March 6, 2012, at the age of 71. Devoted husband of Linda (nee Colwell); loving father of Jon (Lisa) and Kimberly; 2 brothers, 5 sisters and many nieces and nephews.
Relatives, friends, co-workers of PNSY Shop 67 and Phila. Water Dept. are invited to his Viewing Sunday, 6 to 9 P.M., BURNS FUNERAL HOME, 9708 Frankford Ave. (So. of Grant Ave.), and also Monday, from 8:45 to 9:45 A.M., followed by his Service 10 A.M. Interment Washington Crossing National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, family prefers donations to Purple Heart Service Foundation, 7008 Little River Turnpike, P.O. Box 49, Annandale VA 22003, in his memory.

Electrician Horace Reese Sr., shared his power willingly
 

ReeseHORACE REESE SR. was the kind of guy who was always available to help his community, his church, his friends and family.

And he did it quietly, selflessly, with no ostentation. The satisfaction for him came in the doing of the deed.

Horace Reese, a master electrician who worked on ships at three shipyards, an active member of the NAACP, a devoted churchman and a family patriarch, died Friday. He was 99 and was living in Rio Vista, Calif., but had lived for 70 years in Philadelphia.

Horace was born in Warm Springs, Ga., the 10th of the 14 children of George and Mattie Reese. He came to Philadelphia in 1934.

He learned his trade at Murrell Dobbins Vocational Technical High School in North Philadelphia. He worked as an apprentice electrician at the University of Pennsylvania and at the Sun Shipyard & Dry Dock Co. in Delaware County.

He went to the New York Shipyard in Camden as a journeyman electrician. There he worked on the Kitty Hawk, the last conventionally fueled aircraft carrier in the Navy fleet.

The ship was so huge (more than 1,000 feet long, with a 282-foot beam) that its launching in 1960 posed a problem. If it had been launched down the ways, the conventional method, it would have flooded Philadelphia across the river. So it was launched by flooding the dry dock and floating it there.

After New York Ship, Horace moved on to the Philadelphia Naval Shipyard, where he earned the status of master electrician. He also operated his own electrical business during his career.

While growing up in Warm Springs, Horace met Maude Ballard. They were married on June 6, 1933. She died in 1998 after 65 years of marriage.

As an active member of the NAACP in Philadelphia, Horace became involved in civil-rights activities. He attended meetings, helped produce fliers, and pitched in wherever he was needed.

"If you needed him, he would be right there," said his niece Gloria Blount. "He did things in his own quiet way. He never sought any recognition."

Horace started driving at age 12 in Georgia, and was still driving into his early 90s.

He was a longtime member of Holy Tabernacle Church, joining when it was in Tinicum Township, Delaware County, and staying with it when it moved to 425 S. 60th St. in West Philadelphia.

It later was renamed Taylor Tabernacle Church, under the pastorate of the late Dr. C.B. Taylor. Horace was a deacon and an usher and was always available for whatever the church needed.

"His legacy of love will be remembered and appreciated by those who loved him dearly," his niece said.

Horace was living in Mount Airy when he moved to California to live with his son, Horace Jr.

Besides his son, he is survived by a daughter, Betty Johnson; another son, Gregory; 10 grandchildren; 19 great-grandchildren, and four great-great-grandchildren.

Services: 11 a.m. Tuesday at Oxford Presbyterian Church, 8501 Stenton Ave. Friends may call at 9 a.m.

The PNSY community lost another icon on 1 March 2012 in JOSEPH W. KRULIKOWSKI (A.K.A. Joe ‘K’). He was Code 250 when the shipyard closed and was assigned the task of setting up the Norfolk Naval Shipyard Detachment, Naval Foundry and Propeller Center at the Prop Shop located in the Philadelphia Naval Shipyard. Joe retired from the Naval Foundry and Propeller Center as its Director a few years back and was one of the people responsible for its success in its early days. His infectious positive attitude and unwillingness to give up on a problem was a key to his success. Joe’s glass was ALWAYS half full. His was a nice guy and will be missed.

Joe is survived by his Wife Kathryn (nee Sweeney), his daughter Kathleen Tezla (Anthony), his grandchildren Elizabeth and Joseph and his sister Jane Charpentier. All services private at the family's request.

 Leigh R. Williams, 64, of Waterford, passed away unexpectedly at Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center on Feb. 22, 2012.

Leigh was originally from southern New Jersey and the Philadelphia area. He spent 32 years in the ship building industry, working for the Philadelphia Naval Shipyard and Kvaerner Shipbuilding, both in Philadelphia. He served as a Marine medical corpsman in the Vietnam War. In 2004 Leigh and his wife Deborah moved to Waterford; he was employed at Lowe’s in Littleton. He enjoyed reading, traveling, kayaking, woodworking, camping, and spending time with family cats Emily, Emma, and Molly.

He is survived by his wife of 32 years Deborah (Thomas) Williams of Waterford (employed at the Stifel Nicolaus office in St. Johnsbury), his mother Ellen Williams of Haddonfield NJ, his sister Lynne Moran and husband Michael of Haddon Township NJ; his parents-in-law William III and Mildred Thomas of Brookhaven PA; brother-in-law Keith Thomas of Somers Point NJ, nieces, nephews and their families: Christopher Moran, Andrew Moran, Ryan Moran, and Adrienne Moran; Melissa Thomas and William Thomas V. He was predeceased by his father Dale Williams and his brother-in-law William Thomas IV.

This Saturday, Feb. 25, family will receive friends in Littleton at the First United Methodist Church from 11AM to the start of the funeral service at 12Noon. The Rev. Robert Schneider will officiate.

Please, no flowers. Given his love of animals, contributions in Leigh’s memory may be directed to the Kingdom Animal Shelter, PO Box 462, St. Johnsbury VT 05819.

Online condolences may be shared with the family privately at www.saylesfh.com.

Francis J. "Pat" Patton (38 Shop)

 
Navy veteran of World War II and the Korean War

Francis J. "Pat" Patton, age 85, formerly of Milton, DE, died Thursday, February 23, 2012 at Salem Hospital in Mannington, NJ.
Born in Clifton Heights, PA, to the late James F. & Marion D. (Carty) Patton; he had lived in Briarcliffe, PA, and Ocean View, NJ, prior to living in Milton.
Mr. Patton served in the US Navy during WWII and during the Korean War, then he worked at the A & P warehouse in Yeadon, PA and at the Philadelphia Naval Yard. He was also a juvenile officer and later a police officer in Darby Township.
Survivors: Mr. Patton is survived by his children, Stephen, Debbie, Richard, and Donna; seven grandchildren, four step-grandchildren, three great-grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews. He is also survived by his sisters, Mary Sellers and Florence "Sissy" Brown, and he was predeceased by his brothers, James "Pat" and Albert "Buddy" and his sisters, Helen and Katherine.
Services will be private at the convenience of the family.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Mr. Patton's memory may be made to the Delaware County SPCA, 555 Sandy Bank Rd., Media, PA, 19063 (610-566-1370), or to A Buddy For Life Rescue, 1148 Pulaski Hwy., Suite 309, Bear, DE, 19701 (302-322-4997).
Please visit www.htlayton.com to leave a note of condolence to the family.
Arrangements are under the direction of the H.T. Layton Funeral Home & Cremation Service in Woodstown, NJ, 856-769-1515.

William S. Carlucci

William S. Carlucci, age 93 of Wenonah, NJ died Saturday, February 11, 2012 in Vineland. Son of Guiseppe and Caterina Carlucci, he was originally from South Philadelphia and he lived in Wenonah for 35 years. A retired pipefitter, he worked at the Philadelphia Naval Shipyard for 30 years where he was also an Instructor and Supervisor. He was a former Secretary of the Pipefitters Union and was a member of United Association - Plumber's Union, Local 322. During World War II, William served in the US Army in the Philippines and in Japan. He was also a former member of VFW Post 678. Husband of the late Rita (nee Trombetta), he is survived by his sons: Joseph (Dorothy) Carlucci of Cherry Hill, NJ & William (Jeanne) Carlucci, Jr., of Media, PA; grandson: William Carlucci, III and 1 great grandson. He was also pre-deceased by his son, Louis Carlucci. Relatives and friends may visit with the family 10 - 11:30 AM Saturday, February 18 at SMITH FUNERAL HOME, 47 Main St., Mantua, NJ followed by Mass of Christian Burial at Church of the Incarnation at 12 noon. Interment will be in Wenonah Cemetery. Memories and condolences may be shared at www.smithfhmantua.com.

Russell Moroz of Warminster passed away Thursday, Feb. 2, 2012. He was 93.

Born in Allentown, Pa., he was the son of the late Demetrius and Anastasia Pekius Moroz.

Mr. Moroz was formerly employed as a tool and dye maker at the Philadelphia Navy Yard and retired from the Frankford Arsonal in Philadelphia.

He was an avid golfer and enjoyed gardening.

He was the beloved husband of the late Catherine L. Walsh Moroz and the loving father of Patricia A. Wierzbowski (Daniel) of Warrington, Russell K. (Carole) of Libertyville, Ill., and the late Dr. Regina Moe. He was the brother of Millie, Mary, Eugene and Joseph; grandfather of Daniel, Thomas and John Wierzbowski and Emily Moroz; and great-grandfather of nine.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend his funeral Mass at 10:30 a.m. on Monday, Feb. 6 in Nativity of Our Lord Church, Street Rd., Warminster. Friends will be received from 9 to 10 a.m. Monday at Decker Funeral Home, 216 York Rd., Warminster. Interment will be in Resurrection Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Alzheimer's Association, 399 Market St., Suite 102, Philadelphia, PA 19106 in Mr. Moroz's memory.

Condolences may be made to the family online at the below web site. Decker Funeral Home, Warminster

Eugene Rykaski of Levittown died Saturday, Nov. 12, 2011, at his residence following a lengthy illness. He was 90.

Born and raised in North Philadelphia, he resided in Boynton Beach, Fla., for 30 years until moving to Statesman Woods in Levittown two years ago.

Mr. Rykaski was a U.S. Navy veteran of both World War II and the Korean War.

He worked as a shipfitter and later as supervisor of the structural group in production engineering at the Philadelphia Naval Shipyard for more than 30 years, retiring in 1974.

Eugene loved all types of fishing, especially bass fishing. He also played golf and tennis.

He was the beloved son of the late Nicholas and Elizabeth Rykaczewski; devoted brother of Leo Rykaczewski of Chapel Hill, N.C., the late Stanley Rykaczewski, and Catherine Robenolt. He also is survived by four nieces, five nephews; and numerous grand nieces and grand nephews.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend his viewing from 6 to 8 p.m. Saturday, at Fluehr Funeral Home, 864 Bristol Pike (Route 13), Bensalem, where his funeral service will be held at 7:30 p.m. Interment will be held privately.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in his name may be made to The Family Service Assn, 670 Woodbourne Road, Unit 4, Langhorne, PA 19047. Fluehr Funeral Home, Bensalem

Mary (Sassano) Zappa of Deptford passed away peacefully at home on Tuesday, Nov. 15, 2011. She was 87.

Mrs. Zappa was born in Philadelphia and had been a longtime Delran resident before moving to Deptford in 2006.

Mary was dedicated to her faith and had been an active parishioner of the former Church of The Holy Name in Delran, and more recently Holy Angels Parish, Most Holy Redeemer Church in Woodbury.

Mrs. Zappa worked briefly at the Philadelphia Naval Shipyard during World War II, but will be fondly remembered as a loving and devoted wife of 63 years, doting mother, grandmother and homemaker.

Mary is survived by her loving husband, Frank Zappa of Deptford. She is also survived by her children: Sandra and her husband, Peter Genzano of Riverside, Barbara Adams of Pilesgrove and Stephen and his wife, Mary Jane Zappa of Cape Coral, Fla.

Mrs. Zappa was the proud grandmother of seven and great-grandmother of three. Mary was the sister of Frank, Tony, Willie, Mike and the late Harry, Minnie, Johnny and Rita. She is also survived and will be sadly missed by her many nieces and nephews.

Relatives and friends are invited to join the Zappa family in a 'con te partiro' on Friday morning from 8 to 10 a.m. at the Henry Funeral Home, 152 W. Atlantic Ave., Audubon.

Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at Holy Angels Parish, Most Holy Redeemer Church, 1219 Delsea Dr., Westville Grove.

Mausoleum entombment will follow at New St. Mary's Cemetery, Bellmawr.

As an expression of sympathy and in lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Alzheimer's Association Delaware Valley Chapter, 399 Market Street, Suite 102, Philadelphia PA 19106 , or at www.alz.org, or to the American Heart Association, 604 Wheatfield Court, Flemington NJ 08822, or at www.americanheart.org. Henry Funeral Home,   Audubon

www.henryfuneralhome.com

(51 Shop) Heldon R. "Val" Valente of Trevose, Pennsylvania died suddenly Wednesday, August 31, 2011 at his residence. He was 51 years old. Val was born October 3, 1959 in Lisboa, Portugal, son of Jose S. Valente and Natalia Valente (nee - Reto).

He is the beloved husband of Lisa M. Valente (nee Feingold). Father of Christina Sterling and her husband Osbern ā€¯O.D.ā€¯ and Rosemarie Valente. Grandfather of Zion, Mason, Sirus, and Lillian. Son of Jose and Natalia Valente. Brother of Sue Goldstein and her husband Scott.

Val immigrated to the United States with his parents when he was six or seven years old. He was educated in Philadelphia; graduating from Northeast High School. Val served in the United States Navy from September of 1979 until October of 1981. He served on the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN-69) and took great pride in his service. Val proudly worked for many years at the Philadelphia Naval Yard (51 Shop). He had recently been employed as a "Production Maintenance Electrician" for the United States Mint, Philadelphia.

The internment was at Sunset Memorial Park, 333 West County Line Road, Feasterville, Pa 19053. Valā€™s graveside service and military honors were rendered by the United States Navy.

of Palmyra, N.J., passed away Thursday, June 23, 2011. He was 67.

He was born and raised in Philadelphia.

Mr. Scott was a U.S. Navy veteran.

He worked at the Philadelphia Navy Yard as a boilermaker and welder, then, he went to work at Philadelphia Sign in Palmyra.

A resident of Palymra for 48 years, he belonged to the Palmyra American Legion.

He loved fishing and the lottery, and was known around town as Mr. Lucky.

He is survived by his wife of 47 years, Janet (Barron) Scott; his loving children, Janet Gilbert (Chris) and Maureen Larmanis. He was known as 'POP' to his grandchildren, and many others, Jessica, Michelle, Rachel, Scott and Dalton; and his great-grandson, Connor. He also is survived by his sister, Joan Marsh, and Harry Horstman who was like a brother to him; a niece, Coleen Coon; a nephew, Brian Harrington; and many friends.

Relatives and friends are invited to visit Tuesday from 11 a.m. to 12:45 p.m., followed by his funeral service, at the Weber Funeral Home 112 Broad Street (River Road) Riverton, N.J. Interment will be in Brig. Gen. William C. Doyle N.J. Veterans Cemetery.

In Lieu of flowers, please make a donation in his name to Fox Chase Cancer Center, Cottman Ave., Philadelphia, PA.

Weber Funeral Home, 112 Broad St., Riverton