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Obituary Archive

Condolences may be sent in care of:

Scarponi-Bright Funeral Home

26 Main Street Lebanon, NJ 08833

(please include decedent's name)

 

Margaret C. Johnson

 

Margaret C. Johnson, age 97, long-time resident of High Bridge, NJ passed away on Tuesday, September 3, 2019 at Little Brook Nursing Home in Califon, NJ.

She was born on December 7, 1921 in Easton, PA.

Margaret was the daughter of the late John and Helen Cooper Shoemaker.

Her husband, Charles S. Johnson passed away in 1990 after 50 years of marriage. 

She was a lifelong member of the High Bridge United Methodist Church and a 50 year member of the Order of The Eastern Star of New Jersey Hobart Chapter #63 in High Bridge, NJ.

Margaret enjoyed reading, being a homemaker and spending time with her family.

Survivors include one daughter; Margaret DeProspero and her husband Tony of High Bridge, NJ.  Two grandchildren; Robin Parker and her husband John of Middlesex, NJ and David Roberts and his wife Lynn of Monmouth Beach, NJ.  Four great-grandchildren; Matthew Wells, Jonathan Wells, Emily Roberts and Abigail Roberts. One nephew; Jerry Clark of CA.

Predeceased by one sister Elizabeth Cooney. 

Calling hours will be Friday, September 6, 2019 from 5pm – 8pm with Eastern Star Services at 7pm.  Funeral will take place Saturday, September 7, 2019 at 10am.  All at Naughright-Scarponi Funeral Home, 66 Main Street, High Bridge, NJ.  Interment at Musconetcong Valley Cemetery in Hampton, NJ. 

In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to High Bridge United Methodist Church,36 Church Street, High Bridge, NJ 08829 or to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN  38105. 

 

 

Elizabeth J. Lange

Elizabeth J. Lange, age 87, long-time resident of Dover, NJ passed away on Saturday, August 24, 2019 in Saylorsburg, PA.

She was born on May 24, 1932 in Landing, NJ.  She resided in Dover, NJ for most of her life before moving to Califon, NJ and Saylorsburg, PA.

She was the daughter of the late Alfred and Gladys Robinson Cocking.

Her beloved husband, Paul Lange, passed away in 1997. 

Elizabeth graduated from Dover High School.  She had various jobs in her life including working for East Dover School District and RCA in Rockaway, NJ.

Memberships include Christ Hamilton United Lutheran Church in Hamilton Twp., NJ.

Elizabeth enjoyed cooking, baking, reading, knitting and canning.

Survivors include four sons; Paul Lange and his wife Jean Elizabeth of Boulder, CO, Karl Lange of Saylorsburg, PA, Otto Lange and his wife Patricia of Saylorsburg, PA and David Lange of West Palm Beach, FL.  One daughter; Wanda Lange of Annandale, NJ.  Seven grandchildren; Kirsten Ehmann and her husband Todd, Rachel Fraga and her husband Rey, Derek Lange, Christie Lange, Brett Lange, Erik Lange and his wife Rachel and Justin Lange.  Elizabeth is also survived by four siblings; Mae Singewald, Ruth Patamia and her husband Tom, Shirley Law and Henry Cocking.

She is predeceased in addition to her husband by two siblings; John Cocking and Jake ‘Alfred’ Cocking.

Calling hours will be Tuesday, August 27, 2019 from 10am to 1pm with funeral service at 1pm.  All at Scarponi-Bright Funeral Home, 26 Main Street, Lebanon, NJ.  Interment at Cokesbury Cemetery in Cokesbury, NJ. 

To view Elizabeth's video tribute, please click here. 

 

 

Augusta 'Gussie' Inez Moore

Augusta ‘Gussie’ Inez Moore, age 89, of Clinton Twp., NJ passed away on Friday, August 16, 2019 at home.

She was born on April 21, 1930 in Plainfield, NJ.  While she spent her childhood in Plainfield, she lived in Bristol, VT for her senior year of High School before moving back to NJ.  She resided in Middlesex, NJ for many years and in Clinton Twp., NJ since 1964.

She was the daughter of the late George and Ruth Ingram.

Her beloved husband, LeRoy F. Moore, passed away in December of 2018 after 67 years of marriage.

Years ago, Gussie worked for Muhlenberg Hospital in Plainfield, NJ and also for Macy’s before she was married.  Most of her career she worked in the Cafeteria for the Tewksbury Twp. School District.  After her retirement, she worked at the YMCA in Somerville, NJ for several years.

Gussie attended Lebanon Reformed Church in Lebanon, NJ.  She was also a member of the Lebanon Seniors, Clinton Twp. Seniors and Alzheimer’s Support Group in Lebanon, NJ. 

She enjoyed going on many trips with the senior groups to various places.  She also loved going to Atlantic City and The Sands in Bethlehem , PA. 

Survivors include two sons, four grandchildren, one great-granddaughter and one brother. 

In addition to her husband, she is predeceased by three brothers.

Calling hours will be Monday, August 19, 2019 from 2-4pm and 7-9pm.  Funeral service will be Tuesday, August  20, 2019 at 11am.  All at Scarponi-Bright Funeral Home, 26 Main Street, Lebanon, NJ.  Interment will be private. 

Memorials can be made to Lebanon Reformed Church, 100 Brunswick Avenue, Lebanon, NJ 08833 or Hunterdon Hospice, 215 Rt. 31, Flemington, NJ 08822. 

To view Gussie's video tribute, please click here. 

 

 

Betty A. Snyder

Betty A. Snyder of Clinton, NJ passed away on Sunday, August 4, 2019 at home.

Born in Somerville, NJ she was the daughter of the late Arthur (Pete) and Olive Dunster Taylor. She had worked for NJ Bell telephone for 18 years – also Lite Foods in Lebanon, Schuyler’s Newspaper Stand in Clinton and retired from North Hunterdon High School with 26 years and celebrated selling Avon Products for 50 years.  She is survived by a son, Peter and daughter-in-law Theresa, 2 grandchildren, Sadie and Tyler.  Step-son Harry W. Snyder of Milford, NJ and niece Gail Johnson of Yardley, PA.

Graveside service will be Friday, August 9, 2019 at 11am at Locust Grove Cemetery in Quakertown, NJ.

Memorials can be made to Clinton Rescue Squad, PO Box 5265, Clinton, NJ 08809 or Clinton Fire Department, PO Box 5062, Clinton, NJ 08809.

Arrangements by Scarponi-Bright Funeral Home in Lebanon, NJ. 

 

 

Frank H. Scarponi

Frank H. Scarponi, lifelong resident of Bridgewater, NJ passed away on Friday, August 2, 2019 at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Somerset in Somerville, NJ.

He was born on October 22, 1957 in Somerville, NJ.

He was the son of the late Frank J. and Joan Howell Scarponi.

He was the husband of Mary H. Palitchka Scarponi, celebrating 34 years of marriage.

Frank was a graduate of Bridgewater West High School, class of 1975.

He was a member of the local #825 Operating Engineers in Springfield, NJ.  His entire career was spent as a mechanic, beginning with one of his earlier jobs at Union Garage on Finderne Avenue.  He was a Master Mechanic for Jesco Equipment in South Plainfield, NJ for several years.  He also worked for Volvo for a short time.  He later worked for Foley Inc. in Piscataway, NJ where he retired from in 2015.

Frank’s passion in life was spending time working on cars and motorcycles.  He was a mechanic his entire life and always was tinkering on a project.  He enjoyed working on cars for friends at his garage and also going to swap meets.

He was very patriotic and a proud member of the NRA.

Survivors in addition to his loving wife include one daughter; Amber L. Scarponi of Mount Pleasant, SC.  One son; Frank J. Scarponi of Bridgewater, NJ.  Two brothers; Vincent Scarponi and his wife Shirley of Lebanon, NJ and Robert M. Scarponi and his wife Sue of Bridgewater, NJ.  He is also survived by his sister-in-laws and brother-in-laws, several nieces and nephews including Tara Scarponi-Danniballe and her husband Anthony of Stewartsville, NJ and Robert D. Scarponi of Bridgewater, NJ.  Several great-nieces and nephews including his great-nieces Gabriella and Lucia Danniballe.  He is also survived by his beloved dog; Lucy.

Calling hours will be Wednesday, August 7, 2019 from 2-4pm and 7-9pm.  Funeral service will take place on Thursday, August 8, 2019 at 11am.  All at Scarponi-Bright Funeral Home, 26 Main Street, Lebanon, NJ.  Interment will be private.

Memorials can be made to Steeplechase Cancer Center, 30 Rehill Avenue, Somerville, NJ 08876. 
To view Frank's video tribute, please click here.

 

 

Kevin Michael Alencewicz

Kevin Michael Alencewicz, age 30, of Cordova, TN passed away on Sunday, July 21, 2019.

He was born on February 5, 1989 in Livingston, NJ.  He grew up in Holland Twp., NJ and graduated from Delaware Valley Regional High School in 2007.  For the past eleven years, he has resided in Tennessee and currently worked for Tuscan Iron Entries as a Welder.

Kevin was an extremely hard worker, dedicated and talented welder. He enjoyed extreme sports, including surfing and snowboarding and was an avid skateboarder. 

Kevin was blessed with a great sense of humor and an incredible laugh that will never be forgotten. He loved music, going to the beach and most of all, spending time with family and friends.

Above all else, Kevin was a devoted, loving father to his nine year old son, Skye Daniel Alencewicz of Collierville, TN, who he loved beyond measure.

He was also survived by his parents Michael John and Betty Ann Alencewicz of Newtown, PA, his twin brother Mark David Alencewicz, his wife Cassandra and their daughter Rylynn Aubrey of Easton, PA. He was also survived by his girlfriend Mellissa Renee Irwin, as well as, several aunts, uncles, and cousins who loved him very much.

Calling hours will be Saturday, July 27, 2019 from 2pm - 6pm  with funeral prayers at 5pm at Scarponi-Bright Funeral Home, 26 Main Street, Lebanon, NJ.  Interment will be private.

In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made in Kevin’s memory to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105 or to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, 120 Wall Street, 29th Floor, New York, NY 10005. 

 

 

Valerie Mae Tinnes

 

Valerie Mae Tinnes, age 66, of High Bridge, NJ passed away on Saturday, July 13, 2019 at home after a long illness.

She was born on May 12, 1953 in Somerville, NJ.  She was a life-long resident of Hunterdon County.

She was the daughter of the late Walter and Betty Wolverton Bowlby.

She was a graduate of North Hunterdon Regional High School.

Valerie was the wife of Michael E. Tinnes, celebrating 35 years of marriage.

Valerie’s career as a Secretary spanned several companies over the years including Van Doren Oil Company, Hunterdon Medical Center, Gebhrdt & Kiefer, P.C. – and most recently, Edna Mahan Correctional Facility.

Survivors in addition to her husband include one daughter; Kristi Leigh Tinnes-Brown and her husband Justin of Leland, NC.  One brother; Mark Bowlby.

All services will be private.

Arrangements by Naughright-Scarponi Funeral Home in High Bridge, NJ.

 

 

Helen V. Weeast

Helen V. Weeast, age 95, of Milford, NJ passed away on Monday, July 8, 2019 at home surrounded by her loving family.

She was born on August 6, 1923 in Mt. Pleasant, NJ.  She resided with her son and daughter-in-law, Kermit and Kathy Weeast,  in Milford, NJ for several years, and was a lifelong resident of the area.

She was the daughter of the late Harry and Elsie VanSyckle Robbins.

She was a 1941graduate of Frenchtown High School.

Her husband, Herbert Edward Weeast, passed away in 2005.

She was a housewife.  She adored her family and enjoyed spending time with them.

Helen was a former member of the First Presbyterian Church in Mt. Pleasant, NJ.

Survivors include four sons; Kerry R. Weeast and his wife Debra of Pen Argyl, PA, Randy E. Weeast and his wife Beverly of Alpha, NJ, Herb E. Weeast and his wife Marlene of Wind Gap, PA and Kermit L. Weeast and his wife Kathy of Milford, NJ.  Seven grandchildren and eleven great-grandchildren. 

All services will be private.  Arrangements by Scarponi-Bright Funeral Home in Lebanon, NJ.

Memorials can be made to Hunterdon Hospice, 215 Rt. 31, Flemington, NJ 08822.

 

 

Michael Edward Bolan

Michael Edward Bolan, age 33, of Clinton Twp., NJ passed away on Sunday, July 7, 2019.

He was born on December 28, 1985 in Somerville, NJ.  He spent his childhood in Kingwood Twp., NJ with his sister Bridgette and his brother Derik.

He was the son of Jennifer L. Machyousky Bolan of Frenchtown, NJ and the late Edward ‘Butch’ Patrick Bolan.    

Michael and his wife, Diana Botti Bolan, have celebrated being together for 17 years. 

Michael currently worked as a carpenter.  He was very passionate about fitness and enjoyed power lifting. 

Michael was a family man who loved spending time with his family and friends, especially while playing games and cards.  He was very involved with Shayne’s sports and loved watching his games.  His children were the most important thing in his life.

Survivors in addition to his loving wife include two sons; Shayne Bolan (age 15) and Nicholas Bolan (age 2), both of Clinton Twp., NJ.  His paternal grandmother; Waltraud ‘Val’ Bolan  and Aunt Cassandra ‘Sandy’ Mulford.  Three sister-in-laws; Dana, Danielle and Donna.  Michael is also survived by several nieces and nephews.

Calling hours will be Thursday, July 11, 2019 from 5-7pm at Scarponi-Bright Funeral Home, 26 Main Street, Lebanon, NJ.  Interment will be private.

Memorials can be made to the family's go fund me page by clicking here or you can make a donation to Diana to support Shayne and Nicholas's future. 

 

 

Judith 'Judy' Grace Hankinson

Judith ‘Judy’ Grace Hankinson, age 71, of Phillipsburg, NJ passed away on Friday, June 28, 2019 at St. Luke’s Warren Campus in Phillipsburg, NJ.

She was born on February 8, 1948 in Somerville, NJ.  She spent the majority of her life in Hunterdon County, NJ before moving to Phillipsburg a few years ago.

She was the daughter of the late Donald and Eleanor Perry Hankinson.

Judy graduated from High Bridge High School as co-valedictorian of the 1966 class.  She worked for many years at New Jersey Property-Liability Insurance Guaranty Association in Basking Ridge, NJ before her retirement.  After she retired, she worked part-time at ShopRite in Greenwich Twp., NJ.

She was a former member of Cokesbury United Methodist Church in Cokesbury, NJ and a current member of Stewartsville Presbyterian Church in Stewartsville, NJ.  Judy was also a Trustee with the Apgar Family Association.

Judy’s biggest passion was genealogy.  For many years she enjoyed researching her ancestry.  She took after her mother in doing needlecrafts and in being a big NY Mets fan. Judy especially liked first baseman Pete Alonzo and outfielder Michael Conforto. She will always be remembered for her love of her pets and also butterflies.

Survivors include two daughters; Melissa Smith of Phillipsburg, NJ and Amanda Whitney of Shelburne Falls, MA.  She is also survived by one brother and one sister, as well as cousins, nieces & nephews.

A memorial service will be announced at a later date.

Arrangements by Naughright-Scarponi Funeral Home in High Bridge, NJ.

Memorials can be made to Cokesbury United Methodist Church, 230 Cokesbury Road, Lebanon, NJ 08833, Stewartsville Presbyterian Church, 550 North Main Street, Stewartsville, NJ 08886, or the Apgar Family Association, c/o Debbie Apgar, 416 Runyon Avenue, Middlesex, NJ 08846. 

 

 

Joseph Edward Bowbliss, Jr.

 

Joseph Edward Bowbliss, Jr. 76, of Pinehurst, passed away suddenly at his home on Monday, June 24th.

Born in Elizabeth, NJ, he was the son of the late Joseph Edward Bowbliss, Sr. and Sophia Pluta Bowbliss. Joseph was raised in Linden, NJ and graduated from Linden High School, class of 1960.  He attended Lincoln Technical School where he earned his degree before serving in the U.S. Navy. Joseph served on the USS Irex 482 submarine stationed in Groton, CT before obtaining an honorable discharge. 

After he returned home to New Jersey, he married Janet Ambers on July 4th, 1964.  Together they raised their three children in Hunterdon County, NJ. He retired from ATC Systems in Middlesex, NJ, as an Executive V.P.  They relocated to Pinehurst in 2010 and are members of Sacred Heart Church.

Joseph loved spending hours at sea fishing, traveling to St. Kitts and spending time watching his grandkids sporting events.

Joseph was the loving husband of Janet Ambers Bowbliss.  He was the beloved father of Joseph Bowbliss, wife Kerry, of Atlantic Highlands, NJ, David Bowbliss, wife Jennifer, of Whispering Pines, NC, and the late Christine Bowbliss.  He is also survived by five grandchildren, Benjamin, Jacob, Emily, Jude, Zosia and his brothers Stephen Bowbliss of Atlanta, GA and William Bowbliss of Ocean Gate, NJ.

Calling hours and funeral mass will take place in North Carolina.  Graveside service will be on Saturday, June 29, 2019 at 10am at Lower Valley Cemetery, 445 County Road 513, Califon, NJ.

Arrangements by Naughright-Scarponi Funeral Home in High Bridge, NJ.  

 

 

John Francis Fischer Sr.

John Francis Fischer of Tewksbury Township, NJ died on Tuesday, June 11, 2019 after a short illness.

He was born on November 11, 1929 in Williamsville, NY to the late Albert and Mary Fischer.  He cherished his small town upbringing and his memories of simpler times.  His successful days with the Western New York basketball league were certainly a highlight, including his record setting 37-point game, which made local headlines.  After leaving New York, John lived in Morris Township, NJ for over 25 years before relocating to Tewksbury nine years ago.

 John was a 1951 graduate of Niagara University in Lewiston, NY where he was a member of the U.S. Army ROTC program.  He served his country immediately after graduation, stationed in both Japan and Korea, during the Korean War.  Upon returning home, John was employed by his family-owned Amherst Builders supply business in Williamsville, NY from 1953 to 1956, after which he began an illustrious 38-year career in telecommunications.  Starting with New York Telephone in 1956, John transferred to AT&T in 1979 and retired from his vice presidential sales position with Lucent Technologies in 1994. 

John’s beloved wife, sons and precious grandchildren were, unquestionably, his greatest source of pride and where he found his utmost joy.  John also had a devoted set of long time friends, including many who bonded with him on some of the most notorious golf courses across the country as they played the game he so endlessly enjoyed.  

John was predeceased by his loving wife of 52 years, Donna (Riordan) Fischer and is survived by his two sons, John Jr., wife Kathy, and Patrick, wife Nora.  John is also survived by eight cherished grandchildren, John III, Ryan, Patrick, Mary, Erin, Michael, Megan and Daniel and his sister, Hildegard, from Jamestown, NY.

Friends may visit on Tuesday, June 18 from 7-10pm at Scarponi-Bright Funeral Home, 26 Main Street, Lebanon, NJ.  A funeral mass will take place on Wednesday, June 19 at 10:00am at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church,  316 Old Allerton Road, Annandale, NJ 08801 where John was a parishioner for 9 years.  Interment at Immaculate Conception Cemetery in Annandale, NJ.  Those who wish may contribute to his memory to Niagara University, Office of Institutional Advancement, PO Box 2008, Niagara University, NY 14109-2008 (https://support.niagara.edu/donate).

To view John's video tribute, please click here. 

 

 

Mary Catherine Hogrebe

 

Mary Catherine Hogrebe, age 51, of Alexandria Twp., NJ passed away on Tuesday, June 11, 2019 at home surrounded by her loving family.

She was born on May 9, 1968 in Staten Island, NY.  She resided in Alexandria Twp., NJ for the past 10 years.

She was the daughter of the late William and Mary Brewer Barry.

Mary was the wife of William ‘Bill’ P. Hogrebe, celebrating 20 years of marriage.

She was a graduate of North Hunterdon Regional High School class of 1986.  She then went on to attend Trenton State where she graduated with her Bachelor’s Degree in Interior Design.

Mary formerly worked for Armstrong Interiors in Flemington, NJ as an Interior Designer.

Memberships include Church of the Annunciation in Bloomsburg, NJ.  She was a past member of Our Lady of Lourdes.

Mary enjoyed fishing, especially on their boat in upstate New York.  She also enjoyed art and drawing.   She will always be remembered for her love of her cats.

Survivors in addition to her loving husband include five siblings; Bill Barry and his wife Charlene, Kevin Barry and his wife Maria, Eileen Barry and her partner Lisa, Michael Barry and his wife Charlene and Ed Barry and his wife Diane.  She is also survived by her father-in-law, Leonard C. Hogrebe and three brother-in-law’s; Wayne Hogrebe and his wife Donna, Greg Hogrebe and Richie Hogrebe.  Eleven nieces and nephews and four great-nieces and nephews.

Predeceased in addition to her parents by her mother-in-law; Roseann Hogrebe.  She is also predeceased by two brother-in-laws; Kevin Hogrebe and Lenny Hogrebe. 

Calling hours will take place on Monday, June 17, 2019 from 7-9pm at Scarponi-Bright Funeral Home, 26 Main Street, Lebanon, NJ.  Funeral Mass will be Tuesday, June 18, 2019 at 10am at Catholic Church of the Annunciation, 80 Main Street, Bloomsbury, NJ. Interment will be private.

Memorials can be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105. 

 

 

Melvin 'Kelly' F. Kelson

Melvin ‘Kelly’ F. Kelson, age 81, of Clinton Twp., NJ passed away on Sunday, June 9, 2019 at the Hunterdon Medical Center in Raritan Twp., NJ.  

He was the son of the late Stanley and Elizabeth Kelson, born in Annandale, NJ and was a graduate of NHHS in 1955, the first 4-year class of North.  He remained a lifelong resident of Hunterdon County.  Kelly served in the military, Army & Reserves, as a Sharpshooter. 

In his younger years, Kelly worked for the Clinton Twp. Road Department and was self- employed in trucking. He established his own excavating business in 1969, which continues today as Triple ‘K’ Excavating, operated by his son and grandsons.

He was active in his community.  Kelly was a member of the Clinton Elks (47 years); a member of the American Legion; a parishioner of Clinton United Methodist Church; and led a 4-H Motorcycle Club teaching youth riders safety, motorcycle maintenance, and readiness for the road.

Kelly enjoyed camping, riding motorcycles, cars and shooting.  He and his wife traveled the U.S. by motorhome, and spent their winters in the warmth of the South yet always looked forward to coming “home” to Hunterdon County.  His greatest joy was spending time with family and friends, often backyard grilling.

Kelly was the husband of Frances Kelson, celebrating 59 years of marriage.  Survivors in addition to his loving wife include three children; David Kelson and his wife Gloria of Annandale, NJ, Terry Modzelewski and her husband Joe of Clinton, NJ and Sandra Graham and her husband Christopher of High Bridge, NJ.  Six grandchildren; Ryan Kelson and his wife Harley, Drew Kelson and his wife Krissy, Erica Laskey, James Laskey, Joey Modzelewski and Jacob Modzelewski.  Three great-grandchildren; Raylan Kelson, Trent Kelson and Kasey Kelson. 

Predeceased by his brother; Stanley Kelson.

Visitation will take place on Friday, June 21, 2019 from 10am-11am with Funeral service immediately following at 11am, all at Clinton United Methodist Church, 12 Halstead Street, Clinton, NJ.  Interment will be private.

In lieu of flowers, please consider giving to the Open Cupboard Food Pantry in Clinton, NJ.

Arrangements by Scarponi-Bright Funeral Home in Lebanon, NJ. 

 

 

Michael R. Gordon ("Gordy")

Michael R. Gordon (“Gordy”) passed away at Hunterdon Medical Center on Sunday, June 9, 2019 at the age of 50.

Michael is predeceased by his mother Kathleen R. Gordon and survived by his father William O. Gordon. 

Michael is lovingly remembered by sisters Dina Prosser, MaryGrace (Jim) Hanson of Palatine, IL, brother William (Sasha) Gordon of Singapore and sister Peanut Gordon of Annandale – and his best friend and long-term partner Susie Wayson.

Michael’s nieces and nephews will cherish their many memories with him (Tyler, Emma, Jack Hanson; Madison, MacKenzie Rolls; and Hunter Gordon)

Michael was born in Silver Spring, Maryland and graduated from North Hunterdon H.S, Annandale, NJ. in 1987.  He went on to earn a BS from Lynn University in Boca Raton, FL.  He was most recently employed at Verizon.

Michael enjoyed music, golf, skiing, boating and entertaining his friends.

The remembrance tribute will be held at Scarponi-Bright Funeral Home, 26 Main Street, Lebanon, NJ on Thursday, June 13 from 5:00-8:00pm.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the St. Hubert’s Animal Welfare Center,https://www.sthuberts.org/donate, P.O. Box 5281, 3201 Rt. 22 East, North Branch NJ

To view Michael's video tribute, please click here. 

 

 

Catherine F. Duffy

 

Catherine F. Duffy (nee McGowan), 97 of Asbury passed away at home surrounded by her family.  Relatives and friends are invited to attend the Funeral Mass at St. Catherine of Sienna Church, 2 White Bridge Road, Pittstown on Thursday, June 13th at 10:00 AM. Interment at Immaculate Conception Cemetery, Annandale. Visitation will be held at Scarponi-Bright Funeral Home, 26 Main Street, Lebanon on Wednesday, 5-8 PM.  In lieu of flowers donations to Hunterdon Hospice, 2100 Wescott Drive, Flemington, NJ 08822 would be appreciated.

Catherine was born in Brooklyn on January 15, 1922 and lived in Newark, Maplewood, Locust, Monmouth Beach, and Pompton Plains before moving to Asbury 5 years ago. She graduated cum laude in 1943 from College of Mount St. Vincent in Riverdale, NY. “Kay,” as she was known, was a regent for 8 years of the NJ Chapter of Mount St. Vincent Alumnae Association, served on the editorial board of The Advocate, Newark diocesan paper, was a charter founding member of the Woman’s Guild of Seton Hall College of Medicine and Dentistry in 1953, President of the Woman’s Guild of Seton Hall University from 1961-62 and 1975-77 and chaired many fund raisers and helped raise $2,8000,000 for grants to pre-medical and pre-dental students at the university, charter founding member and Secretary of the Society of St. Michael the Archangel 1989- 2001. Kay was installed in 1995 by John Cardinal O’Connor in St. Patrick’s Cathedral as a Lady of the Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre of Jerusalem, and was elevated in rank to Lady Grand Cross of the Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre of Jerusalem by his Excellency Henry J. Mansell, KCHS Archbishop of Hartford, Conn in St. Patrick’s Cathedral in September 2006. Kay was predeceased by her husband William J. Duffy M.D. and her brother Thomas McGowan M.D. She is survived by her children Bill Duffy, Cathleen DeLorenzo, Eileen Schultz and Christine Michelle Duffy, grandchildren Siobain, Katie, Christine, Laura, A.J., and Colleen and great grandchildren Sophia and Saoirse, sister-in-law Cherie and many nieces and nephews.

 

 

 

George William Wright

 

George ‘Shorty’ William Wright, age 65, of Pohatcong Twp., NJ passed away on June 3, 2019 at home.

He was born on December 10, 1953 in Monterey, CA. 

He was the son of Jean Madeline DeBacco of Lopatcong Twp., NJ and the late George Henry Wright.

George was a US Army Veteran, serving in the military upon his High School graduation. 

He received his Associate’s Degree in Computer Science from Raritain Valley Community College in Branchburg, NJ where he graduated at the top of his class.

George retired two months ago after working for many years as a dispatcher for Vianini Pipe in Whitehouse, NJ.

George enjoyed reading and working on his computer.  He also liked panning for gold out west, watching old movies and he loved his beloved cat, Piper. 

Survivors in addition to his Mother include four siblings; Karen Sowden of Flemington, NJ, Cheryl Renda and her husband John of Tuckerton, NJ, Brenda Kafarski and her husband Richard of Pohatcong Twp., NJ and William Wright of GA.  Seven nieces and nephews; Kenneth, Tara, Jeremy, Kelly, Joey, Jesse and Cody. 

All services will be private.

Arrangements by Scarponi-Bright Funeral Home in Lebanon, NJ.

 

 

Margaret 'Peggy' W. Sullivan

Margaret ‘Peggy’ W. Sullivan, age 96, long-time resident of Whitehouse Station, NJ passed away on Sunday, June 2, 2019 surrounded by her loving family.

She was born on January 10, 1923 to the late Patrick and Margaret Ryan Smith in Jersey City, NJ.  She spent her childhood and started raising her family in Brooklyn, NY where she enjoyed visiting Coney Island, Jones Beach and Manhattan before moving to South Plainfield, NJ.  She resided in Whitehouse Station, NJ since 2000.

She was an active member of Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Annandale, NJ and will always be remembered for being a devoted Catholic and very generous woman. 

Peggy loved spending time with the family and had a smile that could light up a room.  She had a passion for shopping, horse racing, and traveling.  She also enjoyed baking, going down to her shore home, and taking boat rides with Dad in Barnegat Bay. She also looked forward to her vacation at LBI with the family. 

She is survived by one son; Daniel E. Sullivan and his wife Barbara of Lebanon, NJ.  Two daughters; Maureen Richold and her husband Bill of Flemington, NJ and Diane Palumbo and her husband Joseph of Branchburg, NJ.  Three grandchildren; Diana Rucci and her husband Stephen, William Richold, Meghan DeTommaso and her husband Michael.  One great-granddaughter; Emilie Rucci. 

She was predeceased by her husband, Daniel J. Sullivan who passed away in 2000 and four brothers; John Smith, Lawrence Smith, Thomas Smith and Edward Smith. 

Calling hour will be Monday, June 10, 2019 from 9:30am – 10:30am at Scarponi-Bright Funeral Home, 26 Main Street, Lebanon, NJ.  Funeral Mass will take place immediately after at 11am at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, 316 Old Allerton Road, Annandale, NJ.  Interment at Somerset Hills Memorial Park in Basking Ridge, NJ.

Memorials can be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105. 

 

 

 

Marjorie 'Marge' Ann Kunz

 

Marjorie ‘Marge’ Ann Kunz, age 86, of Lebanon Borough, NJ passed away on Sunday, June 2, 2019 at home.

She was born on November 27, 1932 in Scranton, PA.  She resided in Lebanon Borough, NJ since 2000.

She was the wife of Robert Thomas Kunz, celebrating 66 years of marriage.

Marge is survived in addition to her loving husband by three daughters, one son and eight grandchildren.  She is predeceased by three siblings.

Calling hours will be Thursday, June 6, 2019 from 2-4pm and 7-9pm at Scarponi-Bright Funeral Home, 26 Main Street, Lebanon, NJ.  Funeral Mass will take place on Friday, June 7, 2019 at 10am at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, 316 Old Allerton Road, Annandale, NJ.  Interment at Immaculate Conception Cemetery in Annandale, NJ. 

Memorials can be made to Hunterdon Hospice, 215 Rt. 31, Flemington, NJ 08822 or by phone 908-788-6600. 

 

 

Nancy S. Kuehn

Nancy S. Kuehn, age 81, of Lebanon Twp., NJ passed away on Tuesday, May 28, 2019 at home surrounded by her loving family.

She was born on February 21, 1938 in Somerville, NJ.  She spent her childhood in Somerville, NJ and moved to Lebanon Twp., NJ in 1969.

She was the daughter of William and Elizabeth Seals Stenger of High Bridge, NJ.

Nancy received her Bachelor’s degree in religion and psychology from Drew University in Madison, NJ.  She worked for many years at well regarded law firms in Somerville, Flemington, and Clinton, with a specialization in real estate.

Nancy was an avid fan of opera, theater, and classic movies.  She loved animals, especially her St. Bernard Brigid and her golden retriever Reba.

She is survived by her daughter; Nanette Kuehn and Nanette’s husband Robert Wurzburg of New York, NY and her grandson; Conrad Wurzburg of New York, NY as well as her two cousins; David Seals and Doug Seals, and her ex-husband; Gary Kuehn.

All services will be private.

Memorials can be made to the Humane Society of the United States, 1255 23rd Street, NW, Suite 450, Washington, DC 20037. 

 

 

James J. Barclay Jr.

James J. Barclay Jr., age 78, of Clinton Twp., NJ passed away on Tuesday, May 14, 2019 at the Hunterdon Medical Center in Raritan Twp., NJ.

He was born on October 23, 1940 in Morristown, NJ.  He spent his childhood in Bernardsville, NJ.  He resided in Clinton Twp., NJ for the past 50 years.

He was the son of the late James J. Barclay Sr. and Cecelia McGuinness Barclay.

James was the husband of Linda Fajnor Barclay, celebrating 58 years of marriage.

James was a retired Heavy Equipment Operator for Local #825 in Springfield, NJ.

He was an avid racing fan.  He raced ATQMRA from 1969 to 1974 and had a true passion for racing.  He was a member of the Checkered Flag Fan Club as well as HARF and various other racing associations.

Survivors in addition to his loving wife include two sons; Duane Barclay of Holland Twp., NJ and Robert Barclay of Lebanon, NJ.  One daughter; Melinda Barclay of Holland Twp., NJ.  Three grandchildren; Amie Yannarella and her husband Carmen of Hampton, NJ, William Weinreich of Holland Twp., NJ and Kayla Hannula and her husband Andrew of Holland Twp., NJ.  Four great-grandchildren; Sawyer and Bentley Yannarella and Rilynn and Cale Hannula.  He is also survived by two sisters; Carol Minikus and her husband Donald of Whitehouse, NJ and Kathy Thorn and her husband Ronald of Blacklick, OH.

Calling hours take place on Saturday, May 18, 2019 from 4-7pm.  Funeral service will immediately follow at 7pm.  All at Scarponi-Bright Funeral Home, 26 Main Street, Lebanon, NJ. Interment will be private.

Memorials can be made to the Checkered Flag Fan Club Injured Drivers Fund, PO Box 79, Kutztown, PA 19530. 
To view James video tribute, please click here.

 

 

Elizabeth 'Libby' Maxham

Elizabeth ‘Libby’ Maxham, age 95, long-time resident of High Bridge, NJ passed away on Tuesday, April 30, 2019 at Country Meadows Retirement Community in Forks Twp., PA.

She was born on November 26, 1923 in Oxford, NJ.  She was a resident of Forks Twp., PA for 8 months, moving from Phillipsburg, NJ and High Bridge, NJ.

Libby was the daughter of the late Andy and Mary Toth Poch.

Her husband, George Vincent Maxham, passed away in 2004 after 63 years of marriage.

Libby was a true entrepreneur who had many business ventures over the years.  She was most known for her five salons called “Libby’s Beauty Salon” in Califon, Milford, Washington, High Bridge and Clinton.  She also owned a craft store in Clinton, High Bridge Snack Bar and East Side Pub in High Bridge.  She also owned a Health Spa in Clinton and ran an Auto Body Shop with her husband. 

Libby was previously a member of the High Bridge Fire Dept. Women’s Auxiliary in High Bridge, NJ and also the American Legion Auxiliary in Whitehouse, NJ. 

Libby enjoyed bowling. In her younger years, she bowled in a league three nights a week and won countless trophies.  She also enjoyed playing Bingo, going to Atlantic City, watching old movies and dancing.  Her and her husband loved going to Mountain Lakes Casino to go dancing years ago.

Survivors include two sons; George Vincent Jr. of Tucson, AZ and Charles Thomas and his wife Unni of High Bridge, NJ.  Five daughters;  Lorraine Hoffman of Phillipsburg, NJ, Marlene O’Malley of Flemington, NJ, Mary Elizabeth Lane and her husband Rick of Mountain Top, PA, Elizabeth Mary LaBelle and her husband Larry of East Arlington, VT and Kim Marie Pryslak and her husband Peter of Ft. Myers, FL.  Fourteen grandchildren, Fifteen great-grandchildren.  She is also survived by one sister; Margaret Vasko of Hampton, NJ.

Predeceased in addition to her loving husband by five siblings; Frank Poch, Andrew Poch, Mary Picone, Helen Brown and Irene Rush.

Calling hours will be Monday, May 6, 2019 from 10am - 12pm with funeral service at 12pm.  All at Scarponi-Bright Funeral Home, 26 Main Street, Lebanon, NJ.  Interment at Hillside Cemetery in Oxford, NJ. 

Memorials can be made to High Bridge Fire Dept., 7 Maryland Avenue, High Bridge, NJ 08829. 

 

 

John Henry Wittmann

John Henry Wittmann, age 90, long-time resident of Vinton, VA passed away on Monday, April 29, 2019 in Roanoke, VA.

He was born on November 2, 1928 in Anthony, NJ.  He spent his younger years growing up on a farm in Hunterdon County, NJ. He resided with his brother, Frank Wittmann, in Vinton, VA, for the past 30 years. He was a member of Jordantown Wesleyan Church in Stewartsville, VA. Many who knew him said he never met a stranger.

He was the son of the late Christian and Madeline Blum Wittmann.

Survivors include Searle Lawson Jr., James Lawson, Diane Whitfield, Bruce Shaw, Barbara Brewer, Wanda Mattis, Orin Shaw Jr., Patricia Shultz, Linda Vealey, Albert Keet Jr., Neola Marie Eskew, Margo Smith, Debbie Stripling, Florence Novecek, David Godown, Robert Thomas Jr., Gilbert Smith, Madeline Cox, Earl Wittmann Jr., Jennie Lee Bergman, Christina Kansky, Joann Duncan, Theresa Blyskal, Cheryl Schickling, Frank Wittmann Jr. and Randy Wittmann. He is also predeceased by three nephews; Chester Lawson, Arthur Smith and John Godown and four nieces; Eileen Wiebe, Donna Lee Fontenot, Emma and Grace Whitehead.

He was predeceased by fourteen siblings; Neola Wittmann, Madeline Lawson, Robert Wittmann, Lylan Shaw, Hernetta Keet, Wilhelmina Shaw, Christian Wittmann Jr, Joseph Wittmann, Margaret Smith, Edward Wittmann, Annabelle Thomas, Earl Wittmann, Frank Wittmann and Jonas Wittmann.

Calling hour will be Saturday, May 4, 2019 from 11am to 12pm at Naughright-Scarponi Funeral Home, 66 Main Street, High Bridge, NJ.  Graveside service will immediately follow at Pleasant Grove Cemetery in Washington Twp., NJ. 

 

 

Michael Geist

Michael Geist, age 67, of Lebanon Borough, NJ, passed away on Saturday, April 27th.  Born in Mineola, NY, he was the son of the late Walter and Rita (Ferber) Geist.  Michael lived on Long Island before moving to Lebanon in 1987.

A man of many passions, Michael recently rekindled his passion for playing golf.  Although he always loved the sport, it took a back seat to his most prized passion - his family.  He enjoyed organizing a bi-annual vacation in the Adirondacks for his extended family.  An event to be fondly remembered and missed by all who participated in the adventures on Loon Lake.  The family’s handyman and computer enthusiast, Michael could be counted on to fix anything from a clogged sink to a crashed hard drive.  He was always willing to help those in need.  His love and devotion will be deeply missed by everyone whose life he touched.

A graduate of the State University of New York at Stony Brook, Michael was an entrepreneur in the trucking business for many years.  Most recently, he was a manager for Home Delivery America in North Bergen, NJ.

Michael is survived by his loving wife of 38 years, Leslie Mork-Geist; his two sons - Zachary Geist and his wife Helena of Bayonne, NJ, and Derek Geist of Boulder, CO; and his two-month-old grandson, Eli Michael Geist.  He is also survived by his three sisters: Linda Williams and her partner Ira Karsh of Farmingdale, NY; Amy Geist of Huntington, NY; and Eileen Bates and her husband Arthur of Phoenix, AZ.  In addition, he leaves behind numerous much-loved nieces, nephews, grandnieces and grandnephews. 

Calling hours will be Wednesday, May 1, 2019 from 3-5pm and 7-9pm at Scarponi-Bright Funeral Home, 26 Main Street, Lebanon, NJ 08833.  Interment will be private.

 

 

Patrick Robert Ackerman

 

Patrick Robert Ackerman, age 61, of Piscataway, NJ passed away on April 25, 2019 at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital in Rahway, NJ.

He was born on March 28, 1958 in Plainfield, NJ.  He resided in Piscataway, NJ and Hunterdon County, NJ for his entire life. 

He was the son of the late Melvin and Dorothy Hausmann Ackerman.

He was the husband of Andrea Hanson Ackerman.  The couple recently celebrated their 20th wedding anniversary.

Patrick was a graduate of North Hunterdon Regional High School in Annandale, NJ.  He went on to graduate from Waynesburg College in Waynesburg, PA with his Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting where he was a member of the fraternity TKE.

Memberships include St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in High Bridge, NJ.  Patrick was also a longtime Little League coach in Hunterdon County.

Patrick had a true passion for jigsaw puzzles.  He is estimated to have completed over 1,300 puzzles in recent years.  He was also a sports enthusiast.  He was a NY Mets and NY Yankees fan, and he loved to watch college basketball. He had a very impressive baseball card collection which he frequently sold on eBay. 

Survivors in addition to his wife include his sister-in-law; Annette Hanson of Bedminster, NJ and his brother; Bruce Ackerman and his wife Adrianna of Hillsborough, NJ.  He is also survived by two nephews; Nicholas Ackerman and Matthew Ackerman. 

Calling hours will be Tuesday, April 30, 2019 from 2-4pm and 7-9pm.  Funeral service will be Wednesday, May 1, 2019 at 11am.  All at Scarponi-Bright Funeral Home, 26 Main Street, Lebanon, NJ.  Interment at Evergreen Cemetery in Clinton, NJ. 

 

 

Ruth McBride

Ruth McBride of Clinton, NJ died April 16, 2019, at Abington Manor at Morgan Hill in Easton, PA.

Ruth, nee Stoneback, age 98, was born on July 6, 1920, in Easton, PA to Priscilla and Chester Stoneback.  Her siblings, who are deceased, were sister Elizabeth Stoneback Connelly and brother Carl Stoneback.

She was married to Hugh J. McBride, who passed away in 1986 and mother to one son, Hugh M. McBride (Kathleen) of Northville, MI, and twins Priscilla Henderson (Lee) of Guilford, CT (who is deceased) and Isabel Trader (William) of Hinsdale, IL.  Ruth had 3 grandchildren; Ryan Patrick McBride, Colleen Grace McBride, and Lisa Trader Lundgren (Kurt).  She had 2 great-grandsons; Trystan Trader Lundgren and Andrew Olsson Lundgren.  She is also survived by 1 niece, Liz Mills, of Lebanon, NJ, and a nephew, Carl Stoneback of Asbury, NJ.  Roger Connelly, nephew, is deceased.

Ruth was blessed with the gift of many loving and loyal friendships during her lifetime.  She was the recipient of much kindness and generosity from both dear neighbors and friends. 

Calling hour will be Saturday, April 27, 2019, 10-11am, at Naughright-Scarponi Funeral Home in High Bridge, NJ.  A funeral mass will take place immediately following at 11am at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, 59 Main Street, High Bridge, NJ.  Interment will follow at St. Philip & St. James Catholic Cemetery in Phillipsburg, NJ. 

 

 

Loretta Pasculli

Loretta Pasculli, age 95, of Pittstown, NJ passed away on Tuesday, April 9, 2019 at home.

She was born on June 28, 1923 in Newark, NJ.  She resided in Pittstown for the past 32 years moving from Edison, NJ. 

She was the daughter of the late Joseph and Catherina DelliSanti.

Her husband, Anthony ‘Tony’ S. Pasculli passed away in 1995 after 48 years of marriage.

She was one of Jehovah's Witnesses for 44 years and she attended the Lebanon Congregation in Clinton, NJ. 

Loretta enjoyed cooking, sewing, oil painting, knitting and crocheting.  She was an avid Yankees fan and she loved to watch western movies. She loved spending time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.  Her greatest joy was being with her family. 

Survivors include two sons; Joseph D. Pasculli and his wife Ramona of Shallotte, NC and Anthony G. Pasculli and his wife Jennifer of Pittstown, NJ.  One daughter; NancyAnn Bonk and her husband John of Alexandria Twp., NJ.  Five grandchildren; Theresa Olschewski and her husband Peter, Nicole Bonk, Anthony D. Pasculli and his wife Sara, Lauren Pasculli and Anthony Michael Pasculli.  Four great-grandchildren; Alyssa Olschewski, Nicholas Olschewski, Dante Switzer and Marcello Switzer.

Predeceased in addition to her husband includes four siblings; George DelliSanti, Frank DelliSanti, Leonard DelliSanti and Amalia LiVecchi.

A memorial talk will take place on Saturday, April 20, 2019 at 2pm at the Jehovah’s Witness Kingdom Hall, 54 Pittstown Road, Clinton, NJ.  Interment will be private.

Memorials can be made in Loretta’s name to Hunterdon Hospice, 215 NJ-31, Flemington, NJ 08822.

 

 

Richard John Hartsell Jr.

 

Richard John Hartsell Jr., age 54, of Phillipsburg, NJ passed away on Monday, April 8, 2019 at St. Luke’s University Hospital in Bethlehem, PA.

He was born on August 25, 1964 in Myrtle Beach, SC.  He resided in Phillipsburg, NJ for the past 25 years, moving from Frenchtown, NJ.

He was the son of the late Richard John Hartsell Sr. and Dorothy Gratt Hartsell.

Richard worked as a painting contractor in Hunterdon County for most of his career.

Richard enjoyed skiing and in his younger years he enjoyed riding dirt bikes.  He also loved John Deere tractors and he had a true passion for cars, especially German cars. 

Survivors include his best friend and business partner Richard ‘Buddy’ Waterman Jr. of Phillipsburg, NJOne brother; Earl Hartsell of Jim Thorpe, PA. Two sisters; Kathleen Bowlby and her fiancé Jeff Warren of Allentown, PA and Elizabeth Tillou and her husband Butch of Jim Thorpe, PA.  He is also survived by many cousins, nieces and nephews.  

Predeceased by one sister; Linda S. Hudecek who passed away in 2018.

Calling hours will be Tuesday, April 16, 2019 from 2-4pm and 7-9pm at Scarponi-Bright Funeral Home, 26 Main Street, Lebanon, NJ.  Funeral Mass will take place on Wednesday, April 17, 2019 at 10am at St. Catherine of Siena Parish Center, 142 Perryville Road, Hampton, NJ. Interment at Evergreen Cemetery in Clinton, NJ. 

 

 

John 'Butch' Howard Ferguson Jr.

On Saturday, April 6, 2019, John ‘Butch’ Howard Ferguson Jr, loving husband and father of two children, passed away at the age 71, in New Brunswick, NJ, after a brief illness.
John, born April 11, 1947 in Somerville, NJ, spent his childhood in East Millstone before moving to Lebanon Borough in 1975. He lived in Clinton Twp for the past 22 years.
Before settling in Lebanon, John served as a US Navy Petty Officer Third Class Hospital Corpsman during the Vietnam War, 1968 – 1971. He was one of the first Extracorporeal Perfusionists in the Navy program. John also worked with NASA when he was selected for the recovery mission for Apollo 13. He was present at the time of their splashdown, 11 April, 1970.
John continued to work as a Certified Perfusionist for his entire career. His operation of the heart-lung machine during cardiac surgery continued in Green Brook, NJ which then moved to RWJ University Hospital in New Brunswick. Here, with RWJ Medical School physicians, he advanced the establishment of the successful Cardiac program available to patients today.
 John grew up attending East Millstone Methodist Church, relocating as an adult to Round Valley United Methodist Church. Later he was an active member of the Lebanon Reformed Church in Lebanon, serving as Deacon, Elder and choir member.
He was an avid outdoorsman: fishing, hunting, gardening, golfing and skiing. He enjoyed target and clay shooting, woodworking, sketching, painting, especially with watercolors, and had constructed several Kentucky long rifles. He was a proud lifetime NRA member.
He was the son of Lillian Robertson Ferguson of Beach Haven and the late John ‘Howard’ Ferguson.
John married Robin T (nee, Franklin) in 1998.
Survivors, in addition to his loving wife and mother include sons: Timothy Ferguson of Mantoloking, NJ, Brian Ferguson (Gillian), of Knoxville, TN, and step-son, David B. Frischman (Tamara Miller), of Dunellen, NJ. Five grandchildren: Megan Bell, Aubrey, Abigail, Caroline and Jack Ferguson. And two siblings: Gary Ferguson (Marie) of Newburgh, NY, and Ellen Ferguson of Sacramento, CA.
Calling hours are scheduled for Friday, April 12, 2019 from 2-4pm and 7-9pm at Scarponi- Bright Funeral Home, 26 Main Street, Lebanon, NJ. Funeral service will take place Saturday, April 13, 2019 at 11am, Lebanon Reformed Church, 100 Brunswick Avenue, Lebanon, NJ. Interment at Cedar Hill Cemetery in East Millstone, NJ.
Memorials can be made in John’s name to the Rutgers Cancer Institute of NJ, 303 George Street, Suite 301, New Brunswick, NJ 08901 or to Ducks Unlimited Wetland Conservation, 1 Waterfowl Way, Memphis, TN 38120.

 

Shirley J. Geiger

Shirley J. Geiger passed away on March 20, 2019 at the age of 93. She was the
beloved wife of Frank J. Geiger who passed away in 2009. Loving and devoted mother, grandmother and great grandmother, Shirley was born in Lebanon Borough on February 14,1926. Shirley worked for many years for the Clinton Township School District. She is survived by her four children, Frank J. Geiger, Jr., Michael J. Geiger, Mary Beth Kerr, and Suzanne McHaffie, six grandchildren and seven great grandchildren.  Calling hours will be Monday, March 25, 2019 from 6-8pm at Scarponi-Bright Funeral Home, 26 Main Street, Lebanon, NJ.  Graveside service will take place on Tuesday, March 26, 2019 at 10am at Evergreen Cemetery in Clinton, NJ. 

 

 

Virginia "Ginnie" A. Hockenbury

Virginia “Ginnie” A. Hockenbury, of Philipsburg, died peacefully on March 15, 2019 at Saint Clare’s Hospital in Dover, New Jersey.  Born in 1940 to Jewell W. Williams and Madeline Wyhuskey Williams, Ginnie was raised in High Bridge.  In 1960 she married the love of her life, Marvin “Jake” F. Hockenbury, and made their home together in Annandale.  While in Annandale, she continued her life as an active member of the High Bridge United Methodist Church and became a member of the Ladies Auxiliary of the Annandale Hose Company.  Ginnie worked hard to serve those with special challenges at the Hunterdon Developmental Center in Clinton.  Ginnie and Jake retired to Phillipsburg in 1997 and she recently became active in the Reliance Church. 

 Ginnie truly lived life to the fullest with her beloved Jake.  They enjoyed trips to Amish country to sample the food at the famous smorgasbords and peruse the stalls at the farmers’ markets.  They marvelled at the Sight and Sound Theater and brought home beautiful gifts from the craft fairs.  Ginnie and Jake travelled to visit family as often as they could, from the beaches of California, to the beautiful farmland of Floyd, Virginia.  Ginnie loved games and puzzles, from mah jong and word searches to community bingo.  She loved the heartwarming stories found on the Hallmark Channel, especially Christmas in July.  Ginnie’s primary passions, though, were children, her family, and God.  Ginnie cherished her role as “Aunt Ginnie” to her nieces, nephews, and grand-nieces and grand-nephews.  

 Ginnie is predeceased by her loving husband Jake, who passed away in 2012 after 52 blessed years of marriage.  She is also predeceased by her brother Robert “Bob” Williams, who passed in 1994.  Ginnie is survived by:  her brother Paul F. Laubach, Jr., and his wife Patricia of Annandale;  her sister Judith L. Wootton and her husband Jack of Boonton; and her sister-in-law, Constance “Connie” Williams, of Long Beach, CA;  as well as several nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews, and many dear friends who will miss her.  In the words of the poet Samuel Rogers, “to know her was to love her.”

 A wake will be held at Scarponi-Bright Funeral Home, at 26 Main Street, Lebanon, NJ, on Tuesday, March 19, 2019, from 7PM-9PM.  A funeral service will be held at the same funeral home on Wednesday, March 20, 2019, at 11AM, followed by interment at St. James Lutheran Cemetery in Philipsburg, NJ.  

 In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to Save the Children, 501 Kings Highway East, Suite 400, Fairfield, CT 06825.   

 

 

Jean M. Erdek

 

Jean M. Erdek, age 85, of Hampton, NJ passed away on Tuesday, February 26, 2019 at Hunterdon Medical Center in Raritan Twp., NJ.

She was born on April 23, 1933 in Jersey City, NJ.  She lived in Hampton, NJ for the past 52 years in the same home with her loving husband.

She was the wife of George L. Erdek, celebrating 65 years of marriage.

She was the daughter of the late Vincent and Mary Caivano Post.

Jean had many jobs that made up her vast career.  Some of these jobs included inspecting heart pacers for Cordis, working for RCA and also working as a Pharmacy Technician for Shop Rite in Clinton, NJ.  

Jean was a past member of the Red Hat Society and also the Women’s Club in Hampton, NJ.  Jean’s favorite pastime was traveling. 

Survivors in addition to her loving husband include five children; George Erdek and his wife Robin of Easton, PA, Cynthia Joyce and her husband Paul of Bethlehem, PA, Brian Erdek and his partner Kelley of Lebanon Twp., NJ, Lisa Morgado and her husband Michael of East Brunswick, NJ and Thomas Erdek and his wife Michelle of Bloomsbury, NJ.  Six grandchildren; Heather Wallace and her husband Ty, Kaytee Joyce, Holly Joyce, Lindsey Erdek, Brian Erdek and Mia Alani Morgado.  Two great-grandchildren; Ryder Wallace and Lydia Wallace.  Three siblings; Dorothy Bulka, Robert Post and his wife Lorraine and Eileen Koeck-Stacey.

Predeceased by one brother; Bradley Post and one sister; Carolyn Post.

All services will be private.  Arrangements by Scarponi-Bright Funeral Home in Lebanon, NJ.

Memorials may be made to Hampton Rescue Squad, PO Box 50, Hampton, NJ 08827. 

 

 

Luigi Odore

Luigi Odore, age 64, of Clinton Twp., NJ passed away on Wednesday, February 20, 2019 at home.

He was born on November 19, 1954 in Piazza Armerina, Sicily.  He resided in Clinton Twp., NJ for the past two months, moving from Whitehouse Station, NJ where he lived for 21 years.

He was the son of the late Giuseppe and Catena Scarcella Odore.

Luigi was the husband of Lorenza Farina Odore, celebrating 42 years of marriage.

He was a self-employed electrician, operating RMS Spectrum Electric in Brooklyn, NY for many years.

Luigi was a well honored man whom everyone had the highest respect for.  He enjoyed watching funny movies, playing games and having Sunday dinner with his family.  He loved the holidays and he especially loved his two dogs; Sammy and Cooper.  He also delighted in singing to his wife the song, ‘My Darling Lorraine’. 

Survivors in addition to his loving wife include two sons; Joseph Odore of NJ and Phillip Odore of Mt. Holly, NJ.  One daughter; Katherine Odore of Clinton Twp., NJ.  He is also survived by two grandchildren and a very close family friend; Brittany M. Rodriguez of Flemington, NJ. 

Calling hours will be Sunday, February 24, 2019 from 9am – 12pm and 4pm -7pm at Scarponi-Bright Funeral Home, 26 Main Street, Lebanon, NJ 08833.  Funeral Mass will take place on Monday, February 25, 2019 at 9:30am at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church in Three Bridges, NJ, 105 Summer Road, Three Bridges, NJ.  Interment at Green-Wood Cemetery, 500 25th Street, Brooklyn, NY. 

Memorials can be made to the ASPCA by visiting https://secure.aspca.org/donate/

 

 

Charles Beecher Howard

Charles ‘Charlie’ Beecher Howard, age 63, of Clinton Twp., NJ passed away on Monday, February 11, 2019. 

He was born on December 29, 1955 in Boston, MA.  While he spent his childhood in Minneapolis, MN, he moved to New Jersey in 1992 when he started his career with AT&T.

He was the son of the late Charles O. Howard and Ruth Rykert Howard.

He was the husband of Lynne Howard.  The couple would have celebrated their 20th wedding anniversary this May. 

Charlie studied electrical engineering at Oregon State University in Corvallis, OR returning to the Twin Cities to finish his bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering.  After spending time working in that field, he switched his interests to statistics, completing a master’s degree in statistics at the University of Minnesota.  Charlie was a Business Analyst for AT&T in Bedminster, NJ until his retirement.  He remained very active in the statistical field.

Charlie was a contributing member of the Sierra Club and also the Nature Conservancy.  He enjoyed volunteering with the Nature Conservancy’s Chester, NJ chapter including a recent outing to Blairstown, NJ to plant trees.  He made significant contributions to Clinton Twp.  He was a past Councilman and served on the Planning Board and Environmental Commission.  Most recently, he was a member of Open Space committee. 

Charlie was an avid outdoorsman.  He enjoyed bicycling, playing tennis, hiking and travel.  He loved physical activity and enjoyed going to the Round Valley YMCA several times a week as well as attending yoga with his wife at the Hunterdon Art Museum in Clinton.  He was passionate about arts and music - he shared a love of  opera with his father.  Charlie had a longstanding interest in photography and capturing the beauty of nature and the closeness of family and friends.

Survivors in addition to his loving wife include his step-mother; Anita Macias-Howard.  One brother; Don Howard and his wife Carmen Simonet of St. Paul, MN.  One sister; Marsha Karp and her husband Bill of West Hartford, CT.  Three nephews; Alex Howard, Tony Howard and Jake Karp.  One niece; Ava Karp.  He is also survived by his beloved dog; Taj. 

Charlie’s sincerity and big-heartedness have enriched the lives of his family and friends and although he will be acutely missed, we take solace in having had him be part of our lives.  He was gentle and observant, but his hearty laugh was contagious and jubilant. A celebration of Charlie’s life will take place at a later date.

Memorials can be made to the Nature Conservancy, 200 Pottersville Road, Chester, NJ 07930.

Arrangements by Scarponi-Bright Funeral Home in Lebanon, NJ.

 

 

Kathleen 'Mimi' Redmond

Kathleen 'Mimi' Redmond, age 70, of Whitehouse Station, NJ passed away on Monday, February 11, 2019 at home.

She was born on February 17, 1948 in Cincinnati, OH.  She resided in Whitehouse Station, NJ since 1996, moving from Annandale, NJ.

She was the daughter of the late Martin and Mary Theresa Toohill.

Kathleen was a retired secretary.  She worked at Spruce Run Elementary School for many years.

She loved traveling and going on cruises.  Kathleen enjoyed going to Maine, especially Kennebunkport.  She loved traveling to Hawaii and also Cape May where enjoyed seeing the Victorian homes.   Kathleen also enjoyed playing golf.  She will always be remembered for being very social and spending time with her friends. 

Survivors include one son; Patrick Redmond and his wife Jennifer of New York, NY.  Two daughters; Erin Redmond of San Antonio, TX and Meghan Murphy and her husband Sean of Seattle, WA.  Three grandchildren; Maeve Redmond, Bridget Murphy and Declan Redmond.  One sister; Sheila Fahey of Arlington Heights, IL.  One brother; Dr. Martin Toohill and his wife Nancy of Provo, UT.  Kathleen is also survived by her long-time friend of over 30 years; Jayne Frazee of Lebanon, NJ. 

Calling hours will be Thursday, February 21, 2019 from 2-4pm and 7-9pm.  Funeral will take place on Friday, February 22, 2019 at 11am.  All at Scarponi-Bright Funeral Home, 26 Main Street, Lebanon, NJ.  Interment at Union Cemetery in Lebanon, NJ. 

To view Kathleen's video tribute, please click here. 

 

 

Roger Cooley

Roger Cooley, 78, of Washington, NJ died on Friday, February 8, 2019 following an eleven-year battle with cancer.  A memorial service will be held on Saturday, February 23, 2019 at 11am at Lower Valley Presbyterian Church in Califon.  Interment will take place at Clove Cemetery in Wantage, NJ at a later date.  Roger and his wife, Anne Rich Cooley, resided in Lebanon Township for 51 years before moving to Washington, NJ.

Roger was born in Superior, Wisconsin, on September 18, 1940, and subsequently spent his boyhood in Battle Creek, MI, and Fort Wayne, IN, where his father, Oscar William Cooley, worked as a civilian employee of the US Army during WWII.  His family settled in Indianapolis, IN, following the war in 1945.  He showed early aptitudes in music and sports, singing as a boy soprano at Trinity Episcopal Church, taking violin lessons, and playing basketball on the PS#70 middle school team, which was a runner-up in the Indianapolis city championship during his seventh-grade year (1952).

After two years at Broad Ripple High School, where he competed in basketball and cross country, as well as playing violin in the high school orchestra and singing “Moments to Remember” and other hits in a rock group, his family moved to Ada, Ohio, where his father became an economics professor at Ohio Northern University.  Roger starred in basketball at Ada High School, while also studying voice, distinguishing himself in state voice competitions.

Roger attended The College of Wooster, Wooster, Ohio, graduating in 1962.  He played both basketball and tennis while continuing to study voice.  He majored in economics and, subsequently, attended the University of Chicago Graduate School of Business where he earned an MBA degree in marketing in 1964.  He also served in the US Army Reserve from 1966-1972.

Roger had a distinguished business career with a number of companies; including Warner-Lambert, RCA, Canada Dry, AT&T, and Crayola.  During his 14 years at Crayola (1986-2000) he was VP of the Art Products Division, VP International, and VP Product Technology & Development.  He served as President of the Art & Crafts Materials Institute and was on the Board of the National Art Materials Trade Association.  Locally, he served on the Boards of the Baum School of Art in Allentown, PA, the State Theatre Center for the Arts in Easton, PA, the American Diabetes Association of Hunterdon County, NJ and the Central Jersey Red Cross.  He was also a bridge Life Master and competed with his wife, Anne, in tournaments throughout the eastern US.

Roger was a co-founder of the Lebanon Township Athletic Association and its first basketball commissioner, serving for 10 years and, subsequently, was an AAU basketball coach, coaching his youngest son, Andrew, in the seventh-grade year.  Andrew would go on and play on winning teams at Voorhees High School.

Roger served on the board of Ruling Elders and chaired the Building Fund Committee at Lower Valley Presbyterian Church, where he was a member for 53 years.  He married his beloved college sweetheart, and they celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary in 2015, taking his entire family on a family reunion cruise to Bermuda.  Included were his four magnificent sons and six beautiful grandchildren.  He is survived by his wife, Anne Rich, and sons, David Edwin, Bradford Hale, Timothy Allan, and Andrew DeWitt.  He also leaves a brother, Dexter Hale Cooley of Greenwood, Indiana, and three loving daughters-in-law; Diane Wiedman, Barbara Pinneke, Stephanie Douglas and, soon to be married, Meredith Benedict.  His six grandchildren; Ethan, Owen, Sierra, Grant, Oliana, and Mei-Lien; were very close to their ‘grampa’ and will miss him dearly.

Roger was a staunch libertarian whose philosophy is best expressed by the words, “live and let live”.  He believed in individual freedom which meant to him that each individual is responsible for his or her own life, and the government should not interfere in the enjoyment of that life or provide ‘entitlements’ which simply involve theft from your neighbor, which you would never condone if you did not have the government to carry out the thievery.  His disdain for big government was evident in an article he wrote, entitled “The Political Process”, which illustrated the corrupting nature of politics, and the need for strict single one-term limits in order to reduce the quest for power that is ingrained in our political system.  For those who argued that we would lose experienced legislators with single one-term limits, his response was that long-serving experienced legislators got us into the trouble we are in and that fresh faces every two and six years would end campaign finance corruption and bring fresh ideas to governing.

Typical of his broad range of interests, Roger also wrote a self-published book on the basic principles underlying the game of basketball.  He wrote the book after seeing collegiate and professional coaches ignoring basic principles of the game and hoping that his children and grandchildren might benefit from his advice and experience on the hardwood.   

Roger lived a full and satisfying life, placing family above all, and making the world a better place by his example.  He will be missed by all who knew him but leaves knowing that those who come after him will continue his legacy. 

In lieu of flowers, donations should be made to the Lebanon Township Athletic Association by clicking here or to the music fund at Lower Valley Presbyterian Church, 445 County Road 513, Califon, NJ 07830.

Arrangements by Scarponi-Bright Funeral Home in Lebanon, NJ. 

 

 

Dr. John Titus

Dr. John P. Titus, age 82, of Union Twp., NJ passed away on Saturday, February 9, 2019 at home.

He was born on December 24, 1936 in Quilon, Kerala in India.  He immigrated to the United States in 1970.  After living in Hammonton, NJ and Bernardsville, NJ he settled to Union Twp., NJ 42 years ago with his wife.

He was the son of the late P.M. John and Elizabeth Titus.

He was the husband of Nalini Pothen Titus.

Dr. Titus was a Psychiatrist, working in private practice in his offices in Phillipsburg, NJ, Green Brook, NJ and Bethlehem, PA.  Years ago, he worked at the VA Hospital in Lyons, NJ and also Warren Hospital.

Dr. Titus was an active member of St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in High Bridge, NJ where he was in the Knights of Columbus, the prayer group leader and also an Eucharistic Minister.  His devout faith was evidenced in his ongoing involvement with his Divine Mercy ministry.  He was very instrumental in forming the Divine Mercy Center in Washington, NJ.

Dr. Titus had many hobbies including traveling and reading.  He will always be remembered for the his love of the sciences.

Survivors in addition to his loving wife include two sons; Dr. A. John Titus and his wife Dr. Benny Titus of Washington, NJ and Philip Titus and his wife Lucinda of Easton, PA.  Four grandchildren; Anita Titus, Andrea Titus, Anjali Titus and Marc Titus.  He is also survived by two sisters; Leela and Ammini of India.

Calling hours will take place on Wednesday, February 13, 2019 from 6-9pm at St. Joseph’s Church, 129-131 Davis Street, Easton, PA.  Funeral Mass will be Thursday, February 14, 2019 at 11am at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, 66 Main Street, High Bridge, NJ.  Interment to follow at St. Anthony’s Cemetery in Easton, PA.

Memorials can be made to the Divine Mercy Center, 426 Rt. 57 West, Washington, NJ 07882.

Arrangements by Naughright-Scarponi Funeral Home in High Bridge, NJ.

 

 

 

Joan Grace Boyer

Joan Grace Boyer, age 85, of Lebanon, NJ passed away on Wednesday, February 6, 2019 at home.

She was born on January 21, 1934 in Roselle, NJ and graduated from Cranford High School in 1952. She spent most of her life in Union County before moving to Lebanon, NJ 18 years ago. 

She was the daughter of the late William and Grace Dickson Lehman.

Her husband, Clifford F. Boyer, passed away in 1986 after over 25 years of marriage.

Joan graduated from Katherine Gibbs Business School and worked at Western Electric and then later for the New Jersey State Child Welfare Agency where she met Cliff. After her husband passed away, she worked for Supermarkets General Corporation in Cranford, NJ and then for the Union County Sheriff’s Department as an administrator where she retired.

Years ago, Joan enjoyed being a Den Mother for her oldest son’s Cub Scout Troop and was also involved with the Contact Club in Roselle. She was very active in the Lebanon Seniors Club and enjoyed swimming. She found great joy in going to her grandchildren’s sporting events and spending time with them.  She also loved going to the beach, especially Ocean Grove and Beach Haven. She had a special place in her heart for Wildwood, NJ as it was the place she spent her honeymoon with her beloved husband, Clifford. 

Survivors include three sons; Scott M. Boyer and his wife Susan of Hillsborough, NJ, Keith R. Boyer and his wife Michele of Aberdeen, NJ and Glenn D. Boyer and his wife Julie of Valrico, FL.  Eight grandchildren; Amanda Boyer, Eric Boyer, Samantha Boyer, Emily Boyer, Katie Boyer, Brian Boyer, Nicholas Boyer and Sean Boyer.  Joan is also survived by two nephews;  Bill Zalinsky of Union Twp., NJ and Frank Dugan and his wife Linda and two nieces; Sharon Murphy and her husband John of Beachwood, NJ and Jackie Napurano and her husband Joe.

Predeceased in addition to her loving husband by one brother; Frank Dugan and one sister; Olive Zalinsky.  She is also predeceased by one nephew; John Zalinsky. 

Calling hours will be Saturday, February 9, 2019 from 2-4pm with funeral service at 4pm.  All at Scarponi-Bright Funeral Home, 26 Main Street, Lebanon, NJ.  Interment will be private.

Memorials can be made to The American Heart Association, 300 5th Avenue, Suite 6, Waltham, MA 02451. 

 

 

Dieter E. Kopp

 

Dieter E. Kopp age 70 of Union Township, NJ, where he lived for many years, died on Tuesday, January 29, 2019 at home.  Born in Kiel Germany, he immigrated in 1954 with his family.  He retired from Flemington Porsche Dealership.  He was an Air Force Veteran, son of the late Erich and Wanda Kopp.  His brother Reinhard predeceased him.  He is survived by his brother Harry Kopp of Lebanon, NJ.  Dieter’s wife, Patricia, passed away in 1994.  Dieter was a pilot and operator of a hot air balloon for many years.  He loved the game of golf, spending a lot of time with friends enjoying the sport.  The funeral will be held for family members only per Dieter’s request.  Arrangements by Scarponi-Bright Funeral Home in Lebanon, NJ. 

 

 

Alan Gerard Dunford

Alan Gerard Dunford, age 57, of High Bridge, NJ passed away on Thursday, January 31, 2019 after he was involved in a motor vehicle accident on Rt. 31.   

He was born on June 15, 1961 in Limerick, Ireland.  He immigrated to the United States as an adult and has lived the past 22 years in High Bridge, NJ.

He was the son of Daniel and Kathleen Dunford of Limerick, Ireland.

Alan was currently working as a Bus Driver for First Transit.  He drove for the Link public transportation, North Hunterdon High School and Voorhees High School.  Prior to driving a bus, he worked for Garden State Growers and he also worked security for Ikaria. 

Alan enjoyed electronics and working on computers.  He also loved motorcycles. 

Survivors in addition to his parents include his longtime partner, Arlene Wiget of High Bridge, NJ.  One son; Alan John Dunford of High Bridge, NJ.  One brother; Raymond Dunford of Ireland.  One sister; Alvina Dunford Robertson of Vernon, NJ.  Two nephews; Christopher and Daniel.

A memorial service will take place on Saturday, February 9, 2019 at 1pm at High Bridge United Methodist Church, 36 Church Street, High Bridge, NJ.  Interment will be private. 

Arrangements by Scarponi-Bright Funeral Home in Lebanon, NJ. 

Memorials can be made on Alan’s personal Go Fund Me page: https://www.gofundme.com/f/dunford-family-campaign or donations can also be made directly to the funeral home, Scarponi-Bright Funeral Home, 26 Main Street, Lebanon, NJ 08833. 

 

 

Richard J. Dischler

It is with great sadness that the family of Richard J. Dischler announces his passing on Tuesday, January 1, 2019. He will be lovingly remembered by his wife Josephine, children Kathleen(David) Weisbecker, Richard(Lynn) Dischler, and Margaret Dischler. He was preceded in death in 1994 by daughter Virginia(Eric)Krone. His grand children Melissa, Michael, David, Jennifer, Denise, Maxwell, Christopher, Jackson, Richard and Arianna and great grand children Zayah and Stella as well as sister Barbara Charles and family and nephew Edward Dischler also mourn his passing. 

Richard(Dick) is a veteran of the Korean War having served as a Tech Corporal at the Heidelberg, Germany base which managed that theater of operations. He was later employed by Prudential Insurance for 5 years and then was with Bell Labs in various management capacities over the remaining 30 years of his career.

His greatest joy came from sharing time with his wife of 65 years and his family. He enjoyed American Revolutionary War history, vegetable gardening, the mountains and the beach. He was a man of careful planning and determination who worked hard and thoroughly enjoyed his 30 years of retirement at his bucolic home in rural Hunterdon County.

A private family Celebration of Life is planned. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to www.stjude.org

 

 

LeRoy Franklin Moore

LeRoy Franklin Moore, age 88, of Clinton Twp., NJ passed away on Sunday, December 30, 2018 at home.

He was born on September 5, 1930 in Plainfield, NJ.  LeRoy spent his childhood in Plainfield, NJ.  He has resided in Clinton Twp., NJ since 1964.

He was the son of the late Franklin and Emily Renz Moore.

LeRoy was the husband of Augusta Inez Ingram Moore, celebrating 67 years of marriage.

He was a US Army Veteran serving from November 1951 to March 1953.

LeRoy retired after working many years for the US Post Office as a Superintendent of Operations in Middlesex, NJ.  Previously he was a tool and die maker for Singer Sewing Machine Co. in Elizabeth, NJ.

LeRoy currently attended Lebanon Reformed Church in Lebanon, NJ.  Other memberships include the Middlesex Jaycees where he was also past president.   Past committee chairman of Cub Pack #190.  He was also a member of the Lebanon Borough Seniors Club and Clinton Twp. Seniors Club.  He was also the recipient of the Clinton Twp. Volunteer of the Year award.

LeRoy enjoyed collecting stamps and playing cards with friends.  He also loved going to Atlantic City with his wife, and playing, and calling Bingo for the Lebanon Borough Seniors Club.

Survivors in addition to his loving wife include two sons; Steven Moore and his wife Susan of Blairstown, NJ and Gary Moore of Flemington, NJ.  Four grandchildren; Jeremy Moore and his wife Laura, Holly Moore, Jesse Moore and Vivyana Moore.  One great-granddaughter; Josephine Moore. 

Calling hours will take place on Friday, January 4, 2019 from 2-4pm and 7-9pm.  Funeral service will be Saturday, January 5, 2019 at 11am.  All at Scarponi-Bright Funeral Home, 26 Main Street, Lebanon, NJ.  Interment will be private. 

Memorials can be made to Lebanon Reformed Church, 100 Brunswick Avenue, Lebanon, NJ 08833 or Hunterdon Hospice, 215 Rt. 31, Flemington, NJ 08822. 

 

 

Loyd Bruce Albright

Loyd Bruce Albright, age 62, of Lebanon Twp., NJ passed away on Wednesday, December 26, 2018 at home. 

He was born on June 25, 1956 in Lubbock, TX.  He spent his childhood in TX.  After his military service, he resided in NJ.

He was the son of the late R. Charles Albright Jr. and Bettye Joyce Hargrove Albright. 

Loyd served with the US Air Force from 1979 to 1982.

Until his retirement, he was a Union Carpenter. 

Loyd was an avid Dallas Cowboys fan.

Survivors include one daughter; Gretchen June Albright of Williamstown, NJ.  One son; Joshua James Albright and his wife Katie of Everett, WA.  Three grandchildren; Brian Michael Albright, Christopher Seth Albright and Emmalyn Marie Albright.  Three brothers; Leslie Ray Albright and his wife Leloy of Amarillo, TX, Larry Charles Albright of Amarillo, TX and Max Gene Albright and his wife Pam of Amarilo, TX.  Several nieces and nephews. 

Predeceased in addition to his parents by one son; Seth Loyd Albright who passed away in February of 2018. 

All services will be private.   Arrangements by Scarponi-Bright Funeral Home in Lebanon, NJ.  

 

 

Rudolph 'Rudy' R. Padulo

Rudolph ‘Rudy’ R. Padulo, age 88, of Lebanon, NJ passed away on Tuesday, December 25, 2018 at his home surrounded by his family.

He was born on February 13, 1930 in Benwood, WV.  He spent his childhood in West Virginia and after completing his service time in the US Air Force, he moved to New Jersey.

He was the son of the late Carmine and Asunta Bonafonte Padulo.

His wife, Greta Padulo, passed away in 1997.

Rudy served in the US Air Force during the Korean War from 1953 – 1955.  He received the National Defense Service Medal, Good Conduct Medal and Army Occupation Medal.

He was a mechanic for Mobil Chemical in Edison, NJ until his retirement in 1992. 

Rudy found great joy in raising his tomatoes which he shared with his family, friends and community.  He was an avid fisherman at Round Valley and many other local spots.

Survivors include three children; Carl Padulo and his wife Maryann of Edison, NJ, Tara L. Pepe and her husband Joseph of Montclair, NJ and Shawn Padulo and his wife Diana Adams of NH.  Six grandchildren; Jessica LaGrasso and her husband Sal, Nicole Padulo, Eliot Pepe, Alena Pepe, Stefan Padulo and Colby Padulo.  Four great-grandchildren; Sal, Isabella, Emma and Savannah.  He is also survived by one sister; Matilda Padulo of WV.

Predeceased in addition to his wife by eleven siblings.

A memorial service will be planned at a later date.  Arrangements by Scarponi-Bright Funeral Home in Lebanon, NJ. 

 

 

Robert 'Bob' Francis Hagan Sr.

Robert ‘Bob’ Francis Hagan Sr., age 85, of Lebanon, NJ passed away on Monday, December 10, 2018 at home. He was born to Francis Reading and Bertha Irene Miller Hagan in Flemington, NJ on August 6, 1933. His family moved to Lebanon, NJ in 1944 and he has lived there ever since.

His wife, Jane Dolores Hagan, passed away in 2016 after nearly 60 years of marriage.

Bob graduated from Clinton High School in 1951 and immediately joined the U.S. Navy, where he served until June 1954. After his discharge, he began working for Hunterdon County National Bank and attending Rutgers University in the evenings. He earned a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting in 1967. He went on to become a Branch Manager at the bank and eventually retired in 1987.

Bob was the tax collector for Lebanon Borough for 20 years. He was also a member of the Lebanon Borough Planning Board the during the time that Round Valley Reservoir was being constructed.

Bob was an avid supporter of Freedom House in Glen Gardner, and spent the last 30 years giving his time and resources to those afflicted with addiction. He also enjoyed volunteering for the Meals on Wheels in Hunterdon.

Bob loved to be outside. Whether it was reading on the porch, going for hikes, cutting firewood, or dining al fresco, he’d always prefer to be outside rather than in. He especially loved the beach and took his family to Cape May every summer when his children were young.

Bob’s surviving family includes one son; Robert ‘Rob’ Francis Hagan Jr. and his partner Karen Storgion of Nazareth, PA.  One daughter; Susan Ruth Hagan Parilis and her husband Gary of Clinton Twp., NJ.  Five grandchildren; John Hagan, Matthew Hagan, Benjamin Parilis, Rachel Parilis and Tristan Tenzi.  One brother; Francis Reading Hagan Jr. and his wife Dorothy of Lebanon, NJ.  Three nephews; Michael Hagan, Mark Hagan and Timothy Hagan.  Two great-nephews; Tyler and Jared.  One great-niece; Justine.  He is also survived by his daughter-in-law; Debra Klim of Nazareth, PA.

In addition to his loving wife, Bob is also predeceased by two brothers, Amiel Hagan (2009) and William Clarence Hagan (1936), his sister-in-law, Janet Dusey Hagan (2015), and his nephew, Glenn Hagan (2017). 

Memorial service will take place on Sunday, December 16, 2018 at 1pm at Scarponi-Bright Funeral Home, 26 Main Street, Lebanon, NJ. Immediately after the service, the family will receive callers in their home. Internment will be private.

Memorials can be made to Freedom House in Glen Gardner (www.freedomhousenj.org) or Meals on Wheels in Hunterdon, Inc., 5 Walter E. Foran Blvd, Suite 2006, Flemington, NJ 08822.  (mowih.org).

 

 

Martha M. Montana

Martha M. Montana, age 100, longtime resident of Lebanon Twp., NJ passed away on Thursday, December 6, 2018 at Little Brook Nursing Home in Califon, NJ.

She was born on September 16, 1918, to the late Charles and Rosa Klahn Whalley in Morristown, NJ.  Martha spent her childhood on the family farm in Meyersville, NJ.  She lived in Lebanon Township for many years, moving to Little Brook Nursing Home three years ago.

Her husband, Angelo ‘Charlie’ Montana, passed away in 2001. Her first husband, James McDonough, also predeceased her in 1964.

Martha worked at Baker & Taylor in Bridgewater, NJ for 25 years until her retirement. 

She was a past member of St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in High Bridge, NJ, and more recently attended the North Hunterdon United Methodist Church.

Martha loved animals and she loved the outdoors.  She enjoyed her plants, gardening and traveling.  She was also an avid reader.  She will always be remembered for her cooking, and especially for hosting big family Thanksgiving dinners over the years.

Survivors include four children; James McDonough and his significant other, Pat Benthin of Union Twp., NJ, Rose Miller of Bethlehem, PA, Elinor Neri and her husband Alan of Kingston, MA, and Carol Thomas and her husband Robert of Hampton, NJ.  Eight grandchildren; Brian Lambert and his wife Michelle of Danville, PA, Paul Miller and his fiancée Robin Brand of Pittstown, NJ, Luke Miller and his wife Dana of Flemington, NJ, Maria Dorsey of Kingston, MA, Steven Neri and his wife Magano of Windhoek, Namibia, Shane Thomas and his wife Kari Reese of Philadelphia, PA, Cody Cavlier and her husband Steve of Hackettstown, NJ, and Melissa Thomas and her husband Joe Pitsko of Bethlehem, PA.  As well as eight great-grandchildren.  Martha is also survived by her nephew; Michael Walsh, of Avoca, MI who was raised by her for ten years.

Martha was also predeceased by her brother, Emil Whalley and her sister, Rose ‘Tommy’ Ford Gibson.

Calling hours will take place on Thursday, December 13, 2018 from 7pm-9pm.  Funeral will be Friday, December 14, 2018 at 11am.  All at Scarponi-Bright Funeral Home, 26 Main Street, Lebanon, NJ.  Interment at Mountain View Cemetery in Cokesbury, NJ. 

Memorials can be made to Tabby’s Place, 1100 US-202, Ringoes, NJ 08551. 

 

 

Douglas William Sargent

Douglas William Sargent, age 73, of Toms River, NJ passed away peacefully on Wednesday, December 5, 2018 at home.

Doug was born on May 3, 1945 in Irvington, NJ.  For the past 8 years, Doug resided in Toms River, NJ, having moved from Lebanon Township, NJ where he lived for over 20 years.

Doug was the son of the late Ralph and Muriel Strack Sargent and was the husband of Diane Stevens. He was a US Army veteran, having served his country from August 1965 to May 1967. Doug completed his Bachelor’s Degree in English from Rutgers University in June 1977 and worked for AT&T, in various capacities, for 35 years until his retirement.

Doug enjoyed fishing and playing golf with his good buddy Rich Boesch, cooking dinner for family and friends, and playing the guitar and singing at family parties.  He also loved going on cruises with his wife and family, especially to Bermuda which was one of his favorite destinations.  Most of all, he enjoyed playing games and spending time with friends and family, and most especially his grandchildren. 

Doug is survived by his wife of 50 years, Diane as well as two sons; Christopher Douglas Sargent of East Windsor, NJ, Justin Louis Sargent and his fiancée Jocelyn Leiby of Washington, NJ and one daughter; Stephanie Louise Scally and her husband Ryan of Randolph, NJ.  As well as by a very special family friend, who was like a daughter to him, Julia Botija of Madrid, Spain. Doug has four grandchildren; Hannah Dorothy Sargent, Cameron Dunn Sargent, Margaret Diane Scally and Bridget Ann Scally.  Doug is also survived by his three brothers; Donald Sargent of Lebanon, NJ, Daniel Sargent and his wife Betsy of Easton, PA and Dennis Sargent and his wife Rosanne of Bradley Beach, NJ.  He is also survived by childhood friend and brother-in-law; John Stevens and his wife Janice and many nieces and nephews.  

Calling hours will be Sunday, December 9, 2018 from 12pm to 4pm.  Funeral service will take place immediately following at 4pm.  All at Scarponi-Bright Funeral Home, 26 Main Street, Lebanon, NJ.  Interment will be private. 

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the American Brain Tumor Association, 8550 W. Bryn Mawr Ave., Ste. 550, Chicago, IL 60631 or Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, 1275 York Avenue, New York, NY 10065 in Doug’s memory.

 

 

Theodore John Boykoff

Theodore John Boykoff, age 76, longtime resident of Lebanon Twp., NJ passed away on Monday, December 3, 2018 at Lopatcong Center in Phillipsburg, NJ.

He was born on August 2, 1942 in Phillipsburg, NJ. He was a resident of Lebanon Twp., NJ for many years.

He was the son of the late John and Rosalie Wolynec Boykoff.

Theodore was a graduate of North Hunterdon High School, Class of 1962.

He was a Tool & Die Maker for RCA in Somerville, NJ for most of his career.  After his retirement, he worked as a Boiler Operator for Westinghouse.

Theodore previously attended St. Joseph’s Church in High Bridge, NJ.  In his younger years, he was also a Volunteer Fireman for the Lebanon Twp. Fire Department.

He had many joys in life including cooking, eating and antiques.  His pride and joy was his property in Lebanon Twp. where he built his own house.  On his property he enjoyed having a ‘backyard farm’ and was one of his favorite hobbies. 

Survivors include four children; Victoria Dell of Washington, NJ, Wendy Boykoff Lucas of Phillipsburg, NJ, Michael Boykoff and his wife Mary of Phillipsburg, NJ and Timothy Boykoff and his wife Kat of Green Brook, NJ.  Six grandchildren; Michael Dell, Brian Dell, Bennett Willis, Marissa Lucas, Kiera Boykoff and Kendra Boykoff.  One great-grandson; Joseph Dell.

Calling hours will be Monday, December 10, 2018 from 10am to 12pm at Naughright-Scarponi Funeral Home, 66 Main Street, High Bridge, NJ.  Funeral Mass will immediately follow at 12pm at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, 59 Main Street, High Bridge, NJ.  Interment will be private.

 

 

Nancy Lee Drake

Nancy Lee Drake, age 67, of High Bridge, NJ passed away on Monday, November 26, 2018 at home.

She was born on February 10, 1951 in Newton, NJ. She spent her childhood in Blairstown, NJ and Columbia, NJ. She had resided in High Bridge, NJ since 2006. She was the daughter of the late Albert and Gertrude Hunt Burdge.

Nancy was happiest when telling stories, especially ones about her wild youth speeding around in hot rods and getting into trouble due to her oft-mentioned lead foot. She cultivated many collections, especially holiday ornaments. This passion for decorating translated into years of participation in her community’s holiday lights contests, and her 2016 Christmas display took home the top prize.

When she was younger, Nancy served as an EMT for many years on the Hampton Emergency Squad. In 1997, she was honored by the Glen Gardener Volunteer Fire Company for saving a woman’s life while putting her own at risk; it was one of her proudest moments. She was also a member of the Glen Gardner Fire Department Ladies Auxiliary.

She was the Head of Medical Affairs for the VA Lyons Hospital in Lyons, NJ until her retirement in 2001, when she lost her sight. Nancy’s blindness didn’t slow her down, however. She went back to school, earning a B.S. in Criminal Justice from ITT Tech in 2009.

Nancy is survived by her sons, Jason Ritter and Chad Ritter, Jason’s wife, Kate Hughes, Chad’s girlfriend, Shanea Johnson, and her beloved pets, dogs Jasper and Silver, and cat Misty.

Gathering of friends will take place on Sunday, December 2, 2018 from 2-4pm with memorial service at 4pm. All services will be held at Naughright-Scarponi Funeral Home, 66 Main Street, High Bridge, NJ. Interment will be private.

Memorials can be made to the New Jersey Commission for the Blind and Vision Impaired, PO Box 47017, Newark, NJ 07101-47017.

 

 

Norma Alexandria Moscato

Norma Alexandria Moscato, age 84, of High Bridge, NJ passed away on Wednesday, November 21, 2018 at Country Arch Care Center in Union Twp., NJ.

She was born on March 2, 1934 in Newark, NJ.  She resided in High Bridge, NJ since 1969, moving from Irvington, NJ.

She was the daughter of the late Andrew and Anna Riccardi Belfondo.

Her husband, Salvatore J. Moscato, passed away in 2015 after 58 years of marriage.

In her early years, Norma worked for Bell Labs Phone Company and later worked as a Teacher’s Aide at North Hunterdon Regional High School.  In 1986, she started Norsal Associates with her family, where she worked in administration and bookkeeping up until last year.

Norma enjoyed supporting many Christian charities. 

In her younger years, she loved horses, especially her horse, Toro.   

Most of all, she enjoyed being with her grandchildren and spending time with them.

Survivors include one son, Salvatore A. Moscato and his wife Jannett of Easton, PA.  One daughter, Cheryl Moscato of High Bridge, NJ.  Three granddaughters, Nicole Donato and her husband John of Saylorsburg, PA, Amber Bachstein and her husband Kyle of Raymond, NH and Jesica Moscato of Easton, PA.  Four great-granddaughters, Sofia Santiago, Addison Donato, Kallie Donato and Amelia Bachstein.

Predeceased in addition to her loving husband by one sister, Thelma Belfondo. 

A service was held privately on Saturday November 24th with arrangements by Scarponi-Bright Funeral Home in Lebanon, NJ.

Memorials can be made to the American Cancer Society, PO Box 22478, Oklahoma City, OK 73123 or to the Friends of Israel Gospel Ministry, Inc., PO Box 908, Bellmawr, NJ 08099 or to Samaritan’s Purse, PO Box 3000, Boone, NC 28607.

 

 

Gregory Alan Molyneux

Gregory Alan Molyneux, Esq., age 64, of Lebanon Twp., NJ passed away on Monday, November 19, 2018 at home.

He was born on November 3, 1954 in Elizabeth, NJ.

Gregory was the son of Gary Sydney and Norine June Painter Molyneux of Watchung, NJ. 

He graduated from Watchung Hills High School and also from Drew University with his undergraduate degree.  He also was a graduate of Vermont Law School. 

Gregory was an attorney with his own private practice in Pluckemin, NJ.

Gregory was a bass player and lead singer with various local bands including the ‘Rodeo Gypsies’ and many others.  He was also an avid outdoorsman.  He enjoyed skiing, kayaking, mountain biking and playing soccer.  He devoted much of his time as Trail Stewards Volunteer Supervisor for the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area. 

Survivors include two sons; Alan Molyneux of Wise River, MT and Bryan Molyneux and his fiance Emily Palumbo of Easton, PA.  One sister, Suzanne Molyneux and her husband Joseph Borowski of Annandale, NJ.  One niece, Jennifer Borowski and one nephew, Gregory Borowski. 

Calling hours will take place on Friday, November 30, 2018 from 2-4pm and 7-9pm at Scarponi-Bright Funeral Home, 26 Main Street, Lebanon, NJ.  A memorial service will take place on Sunday, December 2, 2018 at 3pm at Wilson Memorial Church, 7 Valley Road, Watchung, NJ.  Interment will be private.

 

 

Mary T. Clougherty

Mary T. Clougherty, age 86, of Whitehouse Station, NJ passed away on Saturday, November 17, 2018 at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Somerset in Somerville, NJ.

She was born on June 30, 1932 in South Boston, MA where she resided until moving to Milton, MA.  For the past 4 years, she resided in Whitehouse Station, NJ.

She was the daughter of the late Thomas and Catherine Dirrane Connolly.

Her husband, Ralph F. Clougherty, passed away in 2003.

Mary was active at the Mirota Senior Center in Whitehouse Station where she was known as ‘Boston Mary’.  Mary was an avid fan of both the Boston Red Sox and the New England Patriots.

Survivors include two sons; Thomas M. Clougherty of Sunny Isles, FL and Stephen J. Clougherty and his partner Sandy Proule of Hyde Park, MA.  Two daughters; Maureen C. Wyckoff and her husband Bill of Whitehouse Station, NJ and Kathleen M. Bostock and her husband Gavin of St. Albans, England.  Five grandchildren; Ryan Wyckoff, Brennan Wyckoff, Keira Mary Wyckoff, Aidan Bostock and Jacob Bostock. 

Predeceased by one sister; Katherine Aicardi.

Funeral mass will take place on Monday, November 26, 2018 at 10:30am at St. Agatha’s Catholic Church, 432 Adams Street, Milton, MA 02186.  Inurnment at Massachusetts National Cemetery in Bourne, MA.   

Memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society, PO Box 22478, Oklahoma City, OK 73123 or the American Stroke Association, 300 5th Avenue, Suite 6, Waltham, MA 02451. 

 

 

Marjorie L. Apgar

Marjorie L. Apgar, age 97, longtime resident of Annandale, NJ passed away on Sunday, November 18, 2018 at Country Arch Care Center in Pittstown, NJ.

She was born on March 6, 1921 in Long Valley, NJ.  She resided at Country Arch Care Center for the past 3 years, moving from Annandale where she had lived since 1957.

She was the daughter of the late George and Ella Ader.

Her husband, J. Preston Apgar, passed away on August 15, 1967.

Marjorie was a retired Cottage Training Supervisor(CTS) at the Hunterdon Developmental Center in Clinton, NJ.  She worked for the facility for 25 years and was instrumental in their opening. 

Memberships include Cokesbury United Methodist Church where she was a member for 63 years and also a member of the Anna Crump Circle.

Marjorie loved watching the Lawrence Welk Show and she also enjoyed knitting, crocheting and sewing.

Survivors include two children; Beverly Lazier of Oxford, NJ and Gerald Apgar of LaPorte, TX.  Two grandchildren, six great-grandchildren and six great-great-grandchildren. 

Predeceased in addition to her husband include her son; Jay C. Apgar who passed away on February of 2018, Two grandsons; John Lazier who died in August of 2013 and Rickie Lazier who died in October of 2012.  One great-grandson; Christopher Juliano who died in March of 2017.  She is also predeceased by two brothers; Orville Ader and Lloyd Ader.  Two sisters; Blanche Dilts and Angie Hoffman.

Calling hours will take place on Wednesday, November 21, 2018 from 10am to 12noon with funeral service at 12noon all at Scarponi-Bright Funeral Home, 26 Main Street, Lebanon, NJ.  Interment at Mountain View Cemetery in Cokesbury, NJ. 

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Cokesbury United Methodist Church, 230 Cokesbury Road, Lebanon, NJ 08833. 

 

 

Elizabeth J. Hagen

Elizabeth J. Hagen, age 91, of High Bridge, NJ passed away on Sunday, November 11, 2018 at home.

She was born on December 18, 1926 in Hampton, NJ.  She has resided in High Bridge, NJ for the past 65 years, moving from Hampton, NJ.

She was the daughter of the late Edward and Margaret O’Hearn Dean.

She was the wife of Henry W. Hagen, celebrating 68 years of marriage.

Elizabeth was a 1946 graduate of Hampton High School.

In addition to raising 5 children, Elizabeth worked for Exact Level & Tool in High Bridge, NJ, Lipton Tea in Flemington, NJ and NY Life in Lebanon, NJ.

Memberships include St. Joseph’s Church in High Bridge, NJ where she was also a member of their Rosary Society.

Survivors in addition to her loving husband include four sons, Edward W. Hagen and his wife Susan of FL, James V. Hagen of High Bridge, NJ, Patrick J. Hagen of Forks Twp., PA and Thomas P. Hagen of High Bridge, NJ.  One daughter, Maureen A. Hagen and her husband Neil Stoddard of Hopkinton, MA.  Five grandchildren and three great-grandchildren as well as numerous nieces and nephews. 

She is predeceased by two brothers; Edward (Ted) Dean and John (Jack) Dean as well as three sisters, Mary Macchi, Margaret Loux and Frances McCormick.

Calling hours will be Wednesday, November 14, 2018 from 2-4pm and 7-9pm at Naughright-Scarponi Funeral Home, 66 Main Street, High Bridge, NJ.  Funeral Mass will be Thursday, November 15, 2018 at 10:00am at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, 59 Main Street, High Bridge, NJ.  Interment at St. Ann’s Cemetery in Hampton, NJ. 

In lieu of flowers donations can be made to Hunterdon Hospice, 2100 Westcott Drive, Flemington, NJ 08822. 

 

 

Daniel J. Brown

Daniel J. Brown, 51, of High Bridge, NJ passed away peacefully on October 30, 2018 after a courageous battle with prostate cancer. Dan is survived by his loving wife Amanda, with whom he recently celebrated their 18th Anniversary. Dan was a very talented Systems Engineer who will be missed by his associates at Dell EMC for his warmth, skill, and sense of humor.

Dan was a devoted family man. Born in Elmira, NY, he was the son of Arthur and Diane Brown of Germantown, WI. He is also survived by his maternal grandmother Mary Rita Tressler of Endicott, NY, sisters Bernadette Deming (Marty) of Pine City, NY, Mary Ann Groh (Mike) of Lakeville, MN, Therese Kleinfelter (Jarrid) of Slinger, WI, Roseanna Castillon (Allen) of Menomonee Falls, WI, a brother, Michael Brown, six nephews and three nieces, two great-nephews and one great-niece.

Dan loved cycling, nature, and hiking outdoors, often with Amanda and their dog Keely. He also visited over 22 National Parks and took many great trips domestically and abroad with Amanda over the years, with their favorites being California, Walla Walla, WA, and Spain and Italy. Dan impressed and inspired many with his insightful Caring Bridge postings during his journey, leaving behind a legacy of hope and determination.

A deep sadness and many fond memories are left with Dan’s family, extended family, and friends. A private family service was held at Greensprings Natural Cemetery Preserve in Newfield, NY. There will be a Celebration of Life November 17, 2018 at Echo Hill Park, Flemington, NJ, 1:00-4:00 pm. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to honor charities important to Dan: Woodlands Wildlife (woodlandswildlife.org), Oceana (oceana.org), or the Prostate Cancer Foundation (pcf.org).

 

 

Harry Bush Jr.

 

Harry Bush Jr., age 94, of Walnutport, PA passed away on Wednesday, October 24, 2018 at home.

He was born on August 18, 1924 in Plainfield, NJ.  He had resided in Walnutport for the past 33 years, moving from Lebanon, NJ.

He was the son of the late Harry Bush Sr. and Florence Maxwell Bush.

His wife, Elizabeth Bush, passed away in 2014.

Harry was a World War II Veteran, serving in the US Army from 1943 to 1946.  Harry served in Normandy, Northern France, Rhineland and Central Europe where he was awarded the European African Middle Eastern Ribbon, Good Conduct Medal and Victory Medal.

For his entire career, Harry worked as an electrician for NJ Transit Railroad. 

Memberships include the Glen Gardner VFW, the Walnutport American Legion and Slatington American Legion. 

Harry loved talking to people and was always very social.  He enjoyed visiting the American Legion in Slatington, PA every day.  Years ago, he also enjoyed hunting, playing pool and working on cars.  Most of all, he enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Survivors include one daughter, Sheryl Fleming and her husband Wayne of Hoffmeister, NY.  Two granddaughters, Stephanie Nemeth and her husband Mark of Bethlehem Twp., NJ and Melanie Novacek and her husband Hutch of Annandale, NJ.  Four greatgrandchildren, Devon, Dylan, Hutch and Noah. 

Predeceased in addition to his wife by one daughter, Jacalyn Bush.

All services will be private.  Arrangements by Scarponi-Bright Funeral Home in Lebanon, NJ. 

Memorials can be made to the American Legion Post #16, Attn: Bob Churetta, PO Box 74, Slatington, PA 18080-1412 or to the Glen Gardner VFW, 179 East Main Street, Glen Gardner, NJ 08826. 

 

 

Thelma D. Bunn

Thelma D. Bunn, age 95, peacefully passed away on Thursday, October 18, 2018.  Thelma was a lifelong member of Round Valley United Methodist Church in Lebanon, NJ.  She enjoyed gardening, music, and spending summers in Point Pleasant. NJ.

Thelma participated in educational and social activities at the Round Valley Methodist Church, and the Friendship Club at Bridgewater United Methodist Church.  In Thelma’s sunset years, she appreciated staying in her Bridgewater home that was originally built by her husband decades before; while she enjoyed memorable times with her loving friends, including Kathy, Bonnie, Cindy, David, Edgar, Gloria, Charlene, and Laura.

Thelma was predeceased by her husband, Allen; her close friend, Bill; her faithful canine companion, Nappy; and all of her siblings.

Gathering of friends will take place on Thursday, October 25, 2018 from 12pm-12:30pm with Funeral Service beginning at 12:30pm at Round Valley United Methodist Church, 30 Main Street, Lebanon, NJ.  Interment at Union Cemetery in Lebanon, NJ.

Arrangements by Scarponi-Bright Funeral Home in Lebanon, NJ. 

 

 

Pauline M. Apgar-Ajamian

Pauline M. Apgar-Ajamian, 89, long time resident of High Bridge, NJ passed away on Thursday, October 18, 2018 at Independence Manor in Raritan Twp., NJ.

She was born on November 28, 1928 in Brooklyn, NY.  She resided in High Bridge, NJ until 2013 when she moved to Independence Manor.

She was the daughter of the late Francis and Mary Ann (Tworkowska) Jablonski.

Her first husband, Harold John Apgar Sr., passed away in 1983. Her second husband James Shukry Ajamian and her beloved companion Robert Arzberger also predeceased her.  

Pauline earned a Bachelor’s degree from Montclair University in 1950 where she was also played field hockey.  She received a Master’s degree from The College of New Jersey in 1971.  Later she received an Administrator’s Certificate from Rider University.

For most of her career, Pauline taught in Flemington, NJ, until retiring in 1994.  She enjoyed working at dress shops and also at Heartstrings in Clinton, NJ.  Pauline shared her creative talents with various florists before opening her own flower arranging business, "Your Vase or Mine."  She acted as a Hostess for Hunterdon County Adult Education.

Memberships include St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in High Bridge, NJ where she taught CCD for many years and was a member and past-President of their Altar Rosary Society.  During her membership with the Lions Club, Pauline served as past-President and received the Melvin Jones Award.  She was a member of state and local New Jersey Retired Education Associations. 

Survivors include her three children: Mari Luster (Tom) of Washington, NJ; Jaynie Apgar of Whitehouse Station, NJ and Howard Apgar of Flemington, NJ; nine grandchildren and ten great-grandchildren; sisters-in-law Sharon Jablonski and Joan Jablonski, both in NJ.  “Aunt Penny” leaves behind several nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, Godchildren and beloved students. 

Pauline is predeceased by her first and second husbands and companion Robert; a sister, Regina Jablonski; three brothers: Stanley, Edward and John Jablonski; her beloved sisters-in-law Doris Esser and Mary Jane Apgar and her brother—in-law Daniel Apgar.  She leaves behind many wonderful friends – residents and staff – of Independence Manor.

Calling hours are Sunday, October 21, 2019 from 2-4pm and 7-9pm at Naughright-Scarponi Funeral Home, 66 Main Street, High Bridge, NJ.  Funeral Mass will be celebrated Monday, October 22, 2018 at 10am at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, 59 Main Street, High Bridge, NJ.  Interment follows at Evergreen Cemetery (Immaculate Conception section) in Clinton, NJ. 

In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to Hunterdon Helpline, PO Box 246, Flemington, NJ 08822, Hunterdon Hospice, 215 NJ-31, Flemington, NJ 08822, Hunterdon Cancer Center, 2100 Wescott Drive, Flemington, NJ 08822 or to Alzheimer’s New Jersey, 425 Eagle Rock Avenue, #203, Roseland, NJ 07068. 

 

 

Dr. Alvin Silverstein

Dr. Alvin Silverstein died on 10/13/18, after battling cancer for 3 years. He was a resident of Clinton Township since 1971.  Dr. Silverstein is survived by his six children: Robert, Glenn, Carrie, Sharon, Laura, and Kevin and 8 grandchildren: Robert, Shara, Jamey, Cory, Evan, Samantha, Lia, and Michael. Dr. Silverstein was always concerned about being a good provider for his family. He is pre-deceased by his loving wife, Virginia, with whom he was married to for 57 years.  Virginia was dedicated to our father and supportive of him throughout their marriage and his career. He is also pre-deceased by his kind and beautiful granddaughter, Emily. Dr. Silverstein was a Biology Professor at the City University of New York (CUNY)/Staten Island, for over 50 years. In addition, he started a Physician Assistant Program at CUNY and had a passion for both teaching and mentoring his students.

His children will also remember his favorite hobbies, including his yearly garden we assisted in tending and his talent in drawing and painting, which he passed down to his children.  

Dr. Silverstein also collaborated in authoring over 200 non-fiction science books with his wife and three of his children: Robert, Glenn, and Laura.      

Dr. Silverstein will be remembered and missed by his children and others he has influenced in his lifetime.

Arrangements by Scarponi-Bright Funeral Home in Lebanon, NJ. 

 

 

Theodore G. Webb

 

Theodore G. Webb, age 92, of Washington, NJ passed away on Monday, October 8, 2018 at Lopatcong Center in Phillipsburg, NJ. 

He was born on August 13, 1926 in Morristown, NJ.  He resided in Phillipsburg for the past 3 months, moving from Washington, NJ where he resided for 27 years.

He was the son of the late George and Gladys Mae Apgar Webb.

His wife, Edith M. Smith Webb, passed away in 2011 after nearly 60 years of marriage.

Theodore was a US Navy veteran, serving during World War II on the USS Earl and USS Whiteside.

He worked for most of his career as a self-employed painter.

Theodore loved painting, especially painting magnets and plaques.  He also enjoyed gardening and doing jigsaw puzzles.  He was an avid Yankees fan and he adored his Boston terrier, Cuddles. 

Memberships include the Clinton Elks and the American Legion in Clinton, NJ. 

Survivors include four sons; Mark Anthony Webb and his wife Dale of Lebanon, NJ, Matthew Michael Webb and his wife Corrine of Saylorsburg, PA. Theodore Steven Webb and his wife Sally of Phillipsburg, NJ and Timothy Patrick and his wife Denise of Greenwich Twp., NJ.  Two daughters; Melody Ann Runyon of Sparta, NJ and Deborah Mae Wulff and her husband Michael of Lopatcong Twp., NJ., a son-in-law Dwight Runyon of Hampton, NJ, 14 grandchildren, 12 great-grandchildren and 1 great-great grandchild.

Predeceased in addition to his loving wife by one sister; Mae Hamshar who passed away in 1992.

A memorial service will take place on November 17 at 11:00 am at the Lebanon Reformed Church, 100 Brunswick Ave, Lebanon, NJ.  Interment will be private.

Arrangements by Scarponi-Bright Funeral Home in Lebanon, NJ. 

 

 

Vivian Michener

Vivian Michener, age 89, of Union Twp., NJ passed away on Saturday, October 6, 2018 at home.

She was born in August of 1929 in Allentown, NJ.  She resided with her daughter and son-in-law in Union Twp. for the past 16 years, moving from the Poconos and Lawrenceville, NJ. 

She was the daughter of the late Orville and Helen Reed.

Her husband, James N. Michener, passed away in 1999 after 31 years of marriage.

She was a graduate of Allentown High School.  Vivian worked as a secretary for most of her career. 

She was the first woman president of the Delaware Valley Sports Car Club.

Vivian enjoyed crocheting blankets and afghans, and when living in Lawrenceville, was an avid league bowler.   

Survivors include one daughter, Catherine Apgar and her husband David of Union Twp., NJ.,  two sons, George Neighbor and his wife Pam of Glens Falls, NY, and Gregory Neighbor and his wife Kim of Lawrenceville, NJ, six grandchildren and eleven great-grandchildren.

Predeceased in addition to her husband include one brother, Donald Reed, and two sisters, Ruth Houlahan and Nola Jane McTaggart.

All services will be private.

Arrangements by Scarponi-Bright Funeral Home in Lebanon, NJ. 

 

 

Adele Derda Langston

Adele Derda Langston, age 88, formerly of Clinton, NJ passed away on Monday, October 1, 2018 at Hunterdon Care Center in Raritan Twp., NJ.

She was born on April 26, 1930 in Brooklyn, NY.

She was the daughter of the late Ewald and Frieda Lux Derda.

Her husband, William ‘Bill’ Lee Langston Sr. passed away in 2014.

Adele worked at the Clinton National Bank which later became Bank of America in Bridgewater, NJ.

Memberships include Charter member of the Ladies Auxiliary of the Clinton Fire Department in Clinton, NJ and also a member of the Association of Women in Banking.

Adele enjoyed painting, sewing and playing music on her accordion, organ and piano.  She was also very interested in her family genealogy. 

After retirement, Adele and her husband enjoyed traveling to all 50 states – most in their RV and also through several cruises.

Survivors include two sons; William Langston Jr. and his wife JoAnn of Clinton, NJ and Timothy Langston and his wife Cindy of Clinton, NJ.  Two grandsons; Tyler Langston and his fiancé Kyla Kuntz of Charleston, SC and Rocco Ferraro of Pohatcong Twp., NJ.  One brother; Edward Derda of Cave Junction, OR.  One sister; Joanne Blazure and her husband Dale of Wilson, PA.  Four nieces and nephews; Matthew Blazure, Joel Blazure, Roxanne Derda and Sydney Miller.   

Predeceased in addition to her loving husband by one son; Jeffrey Langston. One daughter; Linda Langston.  One brother; James Derda. 

All services will be private.  A celebration of Adele’s life will take place at a later date. 

Arrangements by Scarponi-Bright Funeral Home in Lebanon, NJ. 

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Clinton Fire Department, P.O. Box 5062, Clinton, NJ 08809 or Tabby's Place, 1100 US-202, Ringoes, NJ 08551. 

 

 

Marilyn Joyce Nelson

Marilyn Joyce Nelson, age 81, of Belvidere, NJ passed away on Wednesday, September 26, 2018 at the Hunterdon Medical Center in Raritan Twp., NJ.

She was born on August 7, 1937 in New Brunswick, NJ.  She resided in Belvidere, NJ since 2002, moving from Whitehouse, NJ and Tewksbury Twp., NJ. 

She was the daughter of the late Joseph and Eleanor Hockenjos Schmitt.

Marilyn was a Teller at the PNC Bank (formerly known as United National Bank) in Califon, NJ for 28 years, until her retirement in 2002.  She loved working at the bank and adored all of the people that she worked with over the years.

Marilyn was a resident at ‘Country View Village’ in Belvidere, NJ and she loved her community.  All of her friends and neighbors there were very important to her and she loved to organize events within her community.  She was a member of the Women’s Group where she enjoyed going to many lunches, teas and also shows at the Hunterdon Hills Playhouse.  Marilyn also loved crafts, especially making homemade cards that she enjoyed sending to her family and friends. Most of all, she loved her beloved dog, Candy.

Survivors include three sons; Richard Nelson and his wife MaryAnn of Inverness, FL, David Nelson and his wife Barbara of Bradenton, FL and Mark Nelson and his wife Susan of Lebanon, NJ.  Four grandchildren; Rick Nelson and his wife Melissa of Belleview, FL, Tina Tetterton and her husband Larry of Hernando, FL, Mark Nelson of Lebanon, NJ and Jennifer Brown and her husband Kieran of Fort Drum, NY.  Four great-grandchildren; Ashley Feliciano and her husband Josh, Tyler Nelson, Amber Tetterton and Autumn Tetterton.  She is also survived by one brother; Gerald Schmitt and his wife Carol of Dewey, AZ and her ex-husband; Richard Nelson of Riverview, FL.

Calling hours will be Sunday, September 30, 2018 from 2-4pm and 7-9pm.  Funeral service will be Monday, October 1, 2018 at 11am.  All at Scarponi-Bright Funeral Home, 26 Main Street, Lebanon, NJ.  Interment at Mountain View Cemetery in Cokesbury, NJ. 

Memorials can be made to the Hunterdon Regional Cancer Center, 2100 Wescott Drive, Flemington, NJ 08822.

 

 

Nedra Burtis Gibson

Nedra Burtis Gibson, age 94, of Clinton Twp., NJ passed away on Thursday, September 13, 2018 at home.

She was born on June 10, 1924 in Sussex, NJ.  She spent her childhood in Sussex, NJ and later moved to Millstone, NJ.  She resided in Clinton Twp., NJ with her son since 2003, moving from Ringoes, NJ.

She was the daughter of the late John Woolsey and Dorothy Pipher Burtis.

Her husband, Paul F. Gibson, passed away in 2013 after 37 years of marriage.

Nedra was an Administrator for Somerset County Mosquito Commission and in the Department of Weights and Measures until her retirement in 1986.

Nedra was a past member of the First Reformed Church in Somerville, NJ.  Years ago, she enjoyed selling items at the Lambertville Flea Market on Sundays.  She also enjoyed making hook rugs.  In her younger years, she loved having dinner parties, skiing and traveling to Florida.  Most of all she was a huge animal lover. 

Survivors include her son; C. Scott Hoffman and his wife Andrea of Clinton Twp., NJ.  Three grandchildren; Adam Hoffman of Red Wood City, CA, Caitlin Mockryki and her husband Luke of East Norriton, PA and Jeremy Hoffman and his wife Marie McGill Hoffman of Bloomsbury, NJ. and several nieces and nephews. 

Predeceased in addition to her husband include her first husband; Carlton Emery Hoffman who passed away in 1974 and her second husband; Jack Christman.  She is also predeceased by her brother; John ‘Jack’ Burtis Jr. 

Calling hours will be Sunday, September 16, 2018 from 3pm to 4pm followed by a Memorial Service at 4pm.  All at Scarponi-Bright Funeral Home, 26 Main Street, Lebanon, NJ.  Interment will be private. 

Memorials can be made to St. Hubert's Animal Welfare Center North Branch, 3201 US-22, Somerville, NJ 08876. 

 

 

Raymond F. Kayne

Raymond F. Kayne, age 78, of High Bridge, NJ passed away on Sunday, September 9, 2018 at the Hunterdon Medical Center in Raritan Twp., NJ.

He was born on September 15, 1939 in Elizabeth, NJ.  He resided in High Bridge, NJ for the past 46 years, moving from Fords, NJ and Bronxville, NY. 

He was the son of the late Paul and Bertha Lis Kniazynski. 

Ray was the husband of Loretta D’Addio Kayne, celebrating 51 years of marriage.

He served with the United States Army Reserves from 1959 to 1962.

Ray graduated from Syracuse University where he was a wrestler and also a member of the fraternity, Delta Kappa Epsilon. 

Ray was a Advertising Manager for General Cable Corporation in New York and Colonia, NJ for 30 years until his retirement.  After he retired, he worked as a starter for Basking Ridge Country Club and later Stanton Ridge Country Club.

Ray enjoyed coaching the Hunterdon Hills Junior Wrestling squad at Voorhees High School when his son Michael was a member of the team.  In his younger years, he also was an avid fisherman.

Memberships include St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in High Bridge, NJ where he was also a member of their Holy Name Society.  He was also a Past Volunteer Fireman for High Bridge Fire Department. 

Ray loved High Bridge and was very dedicated to his home town and had very strong ties to the community.  He was a true patriot and was a wonderful father.

Survivors in addition to his loving wife include six children; Danielle Kayne (David Sanders), Michael Raymond Kayne (Bick), Andrew R. Kayne, Joseph F. Kayne (Julia), Raymond Ontko (Sharon) and Robin Meterchick (Joseph).  Six grandchildren and two great-granddaughters in whom he took delight.  He is also survived by one brother; Paul Kayne (Rosemary). 

Calling hours will be Wednesday, September 12, 2018 from 2-4pm and 7-9pm with Holy Name prayers at 8pm at Scarponi-Bright Funeral Home, 26 Main Street, Lebanon, NJ.  Funeral mass will take place on Thursday, September 13, 2018 at 10am at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, 59 Main Street, High Bridge, NJ.  Interment at Evergreen Cemetery in Clinton, NJ. 

Memorials can be made to the Open Cupboard Food Pantry, PO Box 5071, Clinton, NJ 08809. 

 

 

Bruce H. Baker Jr.

Bruce H. Baker Jr., age 60, of Bethlehem Twp., NJ passed away on Thursday, September 6, 2018 at the Hunterdon Medical Center in Raritan Twp., NJ.

He was born on October 24, 1957 in Raritan Twp., NJ.  He resided with his parents at the same home in Bethlehem Twp., NJ for his entire life.

He was the son of Bruce H. Baker Sr. and Evangeline P. Beam Baker of Bethlehem Twp., NJ.

Bruce was a graduate of North Hunterdon High School, class of 1979. 

Bruce worked at Abilities in Washington, NJ for nearly 30 years.

He enjoyed participating in Special Olympics for 25 years where he especially had fun competing in bowling, cross country skiing and tennis.  Over the years, Bruce participated in the winter games in Utah and the summer games in Bermuda. 

Survivors in addition to his loving parents include his sister; Joyce L. Leather and her husband William of Bethlehem, PA.  He is also survived by his niece; Amanda Marie Leather and many beloved cousins.

Calling hours will be Sunday, September 9, 2018 from 2-4pm with funeral service at 4pm.  All at Scarponi-Bright Funeral Home, 26 Main Street, Lebanon, NJ.  Interment will be private. 

Memorials can be made to Hunterdon County Special Olympics, c/o Kathy Creveling, 213 County Route 513, Glen Gardner, NJ 08826.

 

 

Jerome 'Jerry' Richard Johnson

Jerome ‘Jerry’ Richard Johnson, age 64, passed away on Tuesday, September 4, 2018 at St. Luke’s Warren Campus in Phillipsburg, NJ.  Jerry was born on February 5, 1954 and lived at home with his family in High Bridge, NJ until he was 15 years old.  Since that time, he has resided at the Hunterdon Developmental Center in Clinton Township, NJ.  He was the son of the late Donald C. and Marguerite Reitemeyer Johnson. 

Jerry loved ice cream with chocolate syrup, tomato juice and listening to the Beatles.  His favorite movie was Mary Poppins.  Jerry had a loving personality and a bright smile that would light up a room.

Survivors include five siblings:  Donald F. Johnson and his wife Connie of New Smyrna Beach, FL; Nancy Anderson and her husband Gerry of Sierra Vista, AZ; Joyce Rabens of Lancaster, PA; Rita Brownlee and her husband Art of Upper Black Eddy, PA and Paul Johnson of Wahoo, NE.  Jerry is also survived by many nieces and nephews.

A memorial prayer service will take place on Friday, October 26, 2018 at 1:30pm at the Hunterdon Developmental Center, 40 Pittstown Road, Clinton, NJ.  Guests are invited to use the main parking lot and enter the Johnson building for the memorial service.     Interment will be private. 

The family would like to say a special thank you to the staff of Cottage 18 (past and present) and to everyone at the Hunterdon Developmental Center for the many years of care and love shown to our brother.  Memorials may be sent to the Hunterdon Developmental Center, Cottage 18, 40 Pittstown Road, Clinton, NJ 08809. 

Arrangements by Scarponi-Bright Funeral Home in Lebanon, NJ. 

 

 

Gregory T. Will

 

Gregory T. Will, age 35, of High Bridge, NJ passed away on Tuesday, August 28, 2018 at home.

He was born on March 7, 1983 in Somerville, NJ.  He resided in High Bridge, NJ for most of his life.

He was the son of Robert G. and Noreen E. Will of High Bridge, NJ. 

Gregory was a graduate of Voorhees High School, class of 2001.

Currently, he was working at Drivers in Whitehouse, NJ as an auto mechanic. 

Gregory enjoyed sky diving and playing with radio controlled cars.  Most of all, he loved spending time with his 2 year old son.

Survivors in addition to his loving parents include his son; Shane Matthew Will.  One brother; Matthew Will and Nicole Hansen of Hampton, NJ.  Three nephews; Damion Will, Braiden Will and Kaiden Will.  Many aunts, uncles and cousins.  He is also survived by his beloved dog, Vegas. 

All services will be private.

Arrangements by Naughright-Scarponi Funeral Home in High Bridge, NJ. 

 

 

Joyce M. Homberg

Joyce M. Homberg, age 88, long-time resident of High Bridge, NJ passed away on Friday, August 24, 2018 at Rolling Hills Care Center in Clinton Twp., NJ. 

She was born on February 16, 1930 in New Albany, PA.  She lived in Albany, NY, Jersey City, NJ and MI before moving to High Bridge where she spent most of her life.

She was the daughter of the late Raymond and Thelma McCarty Bown.

She was a graduate of Houghton College in New York State where she studied education. 

Joyce was a retired elementary school teacher.  She taught for most of her career at High Bridge Elementary School until her retirement in 1992.

Her first husband, Rev. Arthur Homberg passed away in 1982.  She later married Kenneth Apgar.  After celebrating 9 years of marriage, Kenneth passed away in 2010. 

Memberships include High Bridge Reformed Church where she also sang in the choir. 

Joyce enjoyed camping, bowling and traveling in her RV.  She also loved playing softball in a High Bridge League.

Survivors include three children; Sharon Werner and her husband Ronald of Belleville, NJ, David Homberg and his wife Joyce of Roanoke, VA and Paul Homberg and his wife Miryam of Fernandina Beach, FL.  One step-daughter; Kim Costa and her husband Ric of New Freedom, PA.  One step-son; Evan Apgar and his wife Janet of High Bridge, NJ.  Seven grandchildren; Beatriz Valencia, Richard Homberg, Jason Homberg, Melissa Burnett, Michelle Trumble, Stephanie Werner and Cynthia Homberg.  Seven step-grandchildren; Sara Apgar, Nathaniel Apgar, Allison Apgar, Rebecca Apgar, Hannah Apgar, Michael Costa and Daniel Costa.  Five great-grandchildren; Yasmin, Mia, Samuel, Allison and Nicholas.  Joyce is also survived by her brother; Gene Bown and his wife Bernadette of Columbia Crossing, PA.

Predeceased in addition to her first and second husbands by three siblings; Patricia Duncan, Robert Bown and Bruce Bown.  

Calling hours will be Friday, August 31, 2018 from 2-4pm and 7-9pm at Naughright-Scarponi Funeral Home, 66 Main Street, High Bridge, NJ.  Funeral service on Saturday, September 1, 2018 at 10am at High Bridge Reformed Church, 23 Church Street, High Bridge, NJ.  Interment at Musconetcong Valley Cemetery in Hampton, NJ. 

Memorials can be made to High Bridge Reformed Church, 23 Church Street, High Bridge, NJ 08829 or the Hunterdon Regional Cancer Center, 2100 Wescott Drive, Flemington, NJ 08822.

To view Joyce's video tribute, please click here. 

 

 

Corinne Alma Buckley Sills

On Tuesday, August 14th, at about 1:20 AM, Corinne Alma Buckley Sills (who would have been 93, on September 13th, ), had the precious opportunity to personally embrace her Lord and Savior;  As well as reunite with her husband (of 69 years), Gurney Alstead Sills.  She was, from head to toe, embraced by her loved ones.

Corinne was a painter (mostly oils), a writer (Have you read her published work, “Are We There, Yet?” ?), a guitarist, and a piano player.

She sang (and attended many national competitions) with the Hunterdon Hills chapter of the Sweet Adelines, from 1977 to the late 1980s. 

She sewed – from scratch – a gazillion overly-sequenced dresses.  (You sorta had to, if you wanted to be in the Sweet Adelines, those days.)

Delighted us with her endless slapstick antics of sheer hilarity.  (You sorta had to, if you wanted to be in some of the skits, presented between songs, by the Sweet Adelines, those days.)

On TWO occasions, she entertained listeners, during personal interviews on the radio.

You might just need TWO hands, to finger-count the number of times that she was either written about, or interviewed, in newspaper articles (all of which, were savvy enough to include a photograph of her).

She (along with Laura Frain) had a bit part in the Ray Liotta movie, “Turbulence”.

Shot a flame off its candle, from 20 yards away!  (On her first attempt!)

Was a constant admirer of the generations of Gray Catbirds, Cardinals, and Robins that entertained her (from the backyard), each and every day.

Had the most angelic voice (and face), in her Church’s Mary Choir.

Was one of the best Sunday lectors (way back when).

Led weekly rosary, and assisted with many church services, at Country Arch.

Was a valued member of the “Friendship Club”.

Continued to keep in touch, and do fun stuff with, all of the friends that she first met at St. Peter’s Elementary School and Curtis High School (both of which, are located in Staten Island, New York), in the 1930s and 40s.

She landed her first job, at the age of 14;  And would continue to be offered every position that she ever applied for, over the course of 80 years.

Was a secretary, at U.S. Gypsum.  A Macy’s “Red Flower Girl”. 

Her written request (to a New York Congressman) that she be allowed to board a U.S. Navy ship (about to embark for the battles of World War II), so that she could give her boyfriend one last embrace, was granted.  Unaccompanied, she was the ONLY person (civilian, or otherwise)) to board the ship that was, quite literally, waiting for her.

She somehow managed to convince the main camera operator (center stage) for the Regis and Kathie Lee show, to turn around and zoom in on her (and gal pal, Jane Anderson), for a ten second shot, after a commercial break.    TEN SECONDS!!!

She was the world’s bestest cook.

She was the staunchest fan, and loudest cheerleader, for those of the under-appreciated.

She had zero tolerance for the intolerant. 

She avoided negativity, as if it was the plague.

She was an unlicensed psychotherapist to everyone that desperately needed to hear her soothing voice;

And she will CONTINUE to be a constant source of comfort, strength, and inspiration to her Million-plus friends, as well as her five children-  Kathleen, Gregory, Justin(and his wife Cathy), Timothy, and Joseph Anthony Sills;  Eight grandchildren – Frank, Christopher, Mathew, Heather, Jennifer, Jonathon, Nicole, and Erin;  Five great grandchildren – Melanie, Robert, Jonon, Emily, and Jacob;  and great great grandchild – Jorden.   

Corinne was an amazing woman who had the ability to love all, unconditionally, because she knew that’s how Jesus wanted us to love each other.  Her incredible strength and resolve to overcome any obstacle she faced, was a result of her profound Faith and the love she felt from the Lord.  

In lieu of flowers or gifts, make a new friend, today;  Or reach out to some of the ones you already have.          

And, please, always try to give what you can – IF you can – to the American Cancer Society.  (Or the Hunterdon Regional Cancer Center, Flemington, New Jersey.)

Feel free to share some stories, or hear some of ours, during the viewing, on Friday, August 17th (from 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM), at the Scarponi-Bright Funeral Home, in Lebanon, New Jersey.

The Funeral Mass will be held on Saturday, August 18th (10:00 AM), at the Immaculate Conception Church, in Annandale (where Corinne was a parishioner, for 41 years); to be followed by a Repast, at the Mountain View Chalet, in Asbury (from 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM).

To view Corinne's video tribute, please click here. 

 

 

 

Helen M. Vroom

Helen M. Vroom, age 80, of Lebanon Twp., NJ passed away on Monday, August 13, 2018 at home.

She was born on September 5, 1937 in Union, NJ.  She resided in Oldwick, NJ and Union, NJ and later moved to Ocean City, MD before coming back to NJ. 

She was a member of the Department of Transportation U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary.

Helen was the wife of Donald L. Vroom Sr., celebrating 6 years of marriage.

Years ago, Helen worked for an Ear/Throat specialist at JFK Hospital in Edison, NJ.  Later she worked for in sales for Walmart where she would travel to various locations.  Most recently, she worked for Washington Senior Citizens where she would serve dinners to the seniors. 

Helen enjoyed bowling.  Several years ago she participated with the Hunterdon County ‘Spicy Seniors’ Bowling League. She also enjoyed line dancing and going to casinos.   She was also a member of the Glen Gardner VFW Ladies Auxiliary.    

Survivors in addition to her loving husband include; four children, two step-children, seventeen grandchildren, thirteen great-grandchildren and one sister. 

Predeceased by one daughter and two brothers.

Graveside service will take place on Saturday, August 18, 2018 at 11am at Allerton Cemetery, 102 Allerton Road, Annandale, NJ. 

Arrangements by Scarponi-Bright Funeral Home in Lebanon, NJ. 

 

 

Dorothy 'Dolly' Staub Kentis

 

Dorothy ‘Dolly’ Staub Kentis, age 80, of Clinton Twp., NJ passed away on Saturday, August 11, 2018 at home surrounded by her loving family.

She was born on July 10, 1938 in Philadelphia, PA.  Dolly spent her childhood in Clifton, NJ.  Later she moved to Mahwah, NJ and Whitehouse Station, NJ.   She resided in Clinton Twp., NJ for the past 23 years.

She was the daughter of the late William Staub Sr. and Dorothy Hebner Staub.

She was a graduate of Pope Pius XII High School in Passaic, NJ.

She was the wife of Donald F. Kentis.  The couple would have celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary in October of this year.

Dolly loved to travel with her husband especially to Israel, Holland, Florida, Hawaii and destinations in New England and Europe.  Her favorite places were the coast of Maine and Cape May.  She loved interior decorating and design and she also loved fashion. 

After her daughter was born deaf, Dolly was very involved with her daughter’s speech and development.  She fought very hard for her daughter and was able to help her daughter pursue her dream of going to college. 

Survivors in addition to her loving husband include one daughter; Carrie Kentis of Clinton Twp., NJ and one son; Christopher and his wife Laura of Brooklyn, NY and One granddaughter; Sabrina Kentis of Brooklyn, NY.  Five siblings; Dolores Healey, William Staub II and his wife Carol, Gerald Staub and his wife Denise, Thomas Staub and his wife Rebecca and Norman Staub and his wife Kathleen.

Predeceased by one sister; Patricia Staub who passed away in 1977.

All services will be private.

Arrangements by Scarponi-Bright Funeral Home in Lebanon, NJ. 

 

 

Emma Frances Haver

Emma Frances Haver, age 90, long-time resident of Clinton Twp., NJ passed away on Wednesday, August 8, 2018. 

She was born in Allerton, NJ and was a lifelong resident of Hunterdon County.

She was the daughter of the late Leon and Evana Farley Storr.

Emma was a graduate of Clinton High School and attended Trenton State College. She was one of the first switchboard operators when Hunterdon Medical Center opened in 1953. She was a Court Administrator for Flemington Municipal Court and then for North Hunterdon Municipal Court until her retirement in 1991.

She was a member of Lebanon Reformed Church from the early 60s to the 80s, where she taught Sunday School and sang in their choir. She was most recently a member of the Clinton Church of the Nazarene, where she was involved with their Bible Study.  Emma also enjoyed teaching at Healthy Bones. She was a previous member of the Stanton Grange. 

She was most proud to be a part of the documentary "The Town That Disappeared Overnight", which was filmed in 2015 documenting a time and place in her life which was very near and dear to her heart. The film went on to win an Emmy Award. She loved German Shepards, traveling, gardening and bird watching. 

Survivors include her daughter; Nancy Horvath of Frenchtown, NJ.  Her grandchildren; LCpl Alec Horvath who is currently deployed, Logan Horvath of Frenchtown, NJ and Brittany Horvath of Frenchtown, NJ.  One brother; Howard Storr and his wife Gail of Inverness, FL.

Predeceased by her son; Dennis Alan Haver who passed away in 2013.  Her first husband; Alan Hamilton Haver who passed away in 1994 and one brother; Leon Storr Jr.   

Calling hours will take place on Sunday, August 12, 2018 from 2-4pm and 7-9pm.  Funeral Servie will be Monday, August 13, 2018 at 11am.  All at Scarponi-Bright Funeral Home, 26 Main Street, Lebanon, NJ.  Interment will be private.

Memorials can be made to the Lebanon Reformed Church, 100 Brunswick Avenue, Lebanon, NJ 08833. 

 

 

Casey Lynn Guilfoyle

Casey Lynn Guilfoyle, age 18  of Lebanon Township, NJ., passed away on Wednesday August 8, 2018 at Morristown Medical Center in Morristown, NJ after a motor vehicle accident which took place on August 3, 2018.

Casey was the daughter of Patricia (Thompson) Guilfoyle of Lebanon Township, NJ. and Kevin Guilfoyle of Susquehanna, PA.

Casey, a graduate of Voorhees High School; class of 2018.  She  was currently working at Dunkin Donuts in Clinton, NJ.

Casey enjoyed photography, drawing and listening to her classic rock albums. Horseback riding, hiking, camping and hunting were among her favorite hobbies.  Casey loved being with her friends, boyfriend Justin and living life to its fullest. She loved animals, and most of all  her 3 cats and dog, "Pippa". 

Survivors include her mother, Patricia Guilfoyle and her s/o Jim Miner.  Caseys' father Kevin Guilfoyle and his s/o Brenda Witt of Edison, NJ.  She is also survived by her brother, William "Billy" Guilfoyle of Lebanon Twp, NJ. Paternal grandmother, Kathleen Guilfoyle of Edison, NJ.

Casey is also survived by members of her maternal family including: John and Patty Thompson of Warren Center, PA.  Maggie Thompson of Alexandria Twp, NJ.  Frances Clare ( Thompson) and Leon Sohn.  Cousins Laura and Lizzy Sohn of Bound Brook, NJ.  William "Bill" Thompson of Lebanon, NJ.  Thomas and Beatta Thompson.  Cousins Michelle and Tommy Thompson of Metuchen, NJ.  Matt Thompson of Edison, NJ

Survivors of her paternal family include: John "Johnny" Guilfoyle of Edison, NJ.  Kenneth "Kenny" Guilfoyle of Edison, NJ.  Robert "Bobby" and Eileen Guilfoyle.  Cousins Holly and Coleen; nephew Jasper, of Stewartsville, NJ.  Kathy and George Oswald.  Cousins Kyle and Shannon of Califon, NJ.  Dawn and Martin Crosley.  Cousins Sean and Kelly of Orlando, Fla.

Predeceased by her paternal grandfather, John "Jack" Guilfoyle of Edison, NJ.  Maternal grandmother Betty Thompson and grandfather William Thompson, Sr. of Metuchen, NJ.  Also members of her maternal family Marybeth Thompson and Robert Singleton of Metuchen, NJ.

A casual memorial service to celebrate Casey's life will take place on Sunday, August 19, 2018 from 12pm to 4pm at Born to Run Farm, 129 Mountain Top Road, Glen Gardner, NJ.  Light refreshments will be served. 

Arrangements by Scarponi-Bright Funeral Home in Lebanon, NJ.

Memorials can be made to one of the organizations that helped Casey on the day of her accident including Washington Twp. Emergency Squad, PO Box 4, Washington, NJ 07882, Washington Twp. Fire Department, PO Box 307, Washington, NJ 07882 or Washington Twp. Police, 211 Rt. 31 North, Washington, NJ 07882.  Memorials can also be made to Sharing Network, 691 Central Ave., New Providence, NJ 07974 or on Casey's go fund me page by clicking here. 

To view a special article on Casey, please click here. 

 

 

Doris Howard

 

Doris Howard, age 89, of Tewksbury Twp., passed away on Wednesday, August 1, 2018 at home.

She was born on November, 10, 1928 in New York, NY. She has resided in Tewksbury Twp., NJ since 1995, moving from Short Hills, NJ.

She was the daughter of the late John and Sarah Martin.

Doris was the wife of Donald Howard, celebrating 57 years of marriage.

After completing High School, she attended New York University. In her younger years, Doris worked for NBC, ABC television, and an art buyer for a leading advertising agency. In 1959 she helped launch don Howard Personnel, an executive personnel placement firm, with her husband Don. As office manager, she greatly contributed to the growth and success of the agency.

While she was living in Short Hills, Doris also volunteered for the Millburn First Aid Squad for many years.

Doris loved to read, and spent half the year at her second home in Longboat Key, Fl. Most of all, she enjoyed spending time with her two grandchildren.

Survivors in addition to her loving husband include one son, Gregg Howard, and his wife Valerie of Montville, NJ. Two grandchildren; Michael Howard and Graycen Howard.

Predeceased by her daughter, Beth Beffa, who passed away in August of 2017.

Calling hours will be Sunday, August 5, 2018 from 3-6pm with Catholic Prayers at 4:30pm. All at Scarponi-Bright Funeral Home, 26 Main Street, Lebanon, NJ. Interment will be private.

At the request of the family, in lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to Doris’ favorite charity: St. Jude Children’s Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105. 

 

 

Benjamin W. Wiersma

Benjamin W. Wiersma, age 75, of Stewartsville, NJ passed away on Monday, July 23, 2018 at St. Luke’s Warren Campus in Phillipsburg, NJ.

He was born on June 9, 1943 in Holland.  He resided in Stewartsville, NJ for the past 6 years, moving from High Bridge, NJ and Rocky Hill, NJ.  He also lived in Flemington, NJ where his family’s farm was located.

He was the son of the late Albert Walter and Alice Bernice Wiersma.

He was the significant other of Jane L. Florczak, celebrating being together for 21 years.

Benjamin worked for Johanna Foods Inc. in Flemington, NJ for 43 years until his retirement.

Benjamin enjoyed going for drives and enjoying the scenery.  He also loved to listen to music.

Survivors in addition to his significant other, Jane, include one brother; Walter of MI and one sister; Trina Bolt of MI.  Several nieces and nephews.

Predeceased by one sister; Seaske ‘Susan’ Faber and one nephew; William Kenneth Faber who passed away in 1996.

Calling hours will be Sunday, July 29, 2018 from 2-5pm.  Funeral service will take place on Monday, July 30, 2018 at 11am.  All at Scarponi-Bright Funeral Home, 26 Main Street, Lebanon, NJ.  Interment at Fairmont Cemetery in Tewksbury Twp., NJ. 

Memorials can be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105. 

 

 

Charles Steve Wisbeski

Charles Steve Wisbeski, age 81, of Lebanon Twp., NJ passed away on Thursday, July 12, 2018 at the Hunterdon Medical Center in Raritan Twp., NJ.

He was born on June 7, 1937 in Somerville, NJ.  He grew up in South Bound Brook, NJ and resided in Lebanon Twp., NJ for the past 50 years.

He was the son of the late Joseph and Sophie Wisbeski.

Charles was a Welder and Diesel Mechanic working for Kenworth in Somerville, NJ for many years.  He also operated his own welding business with his son where he enjoyed doing many charity projects. 

He was a member of the Teamsters Union.  He also enjoyed volunteering his time with many local fire companies in Hunterdon County.  He also operated the Lebanon Twp. Food Pantry for 10 years.

Charles was known for his enormous sense of humor.  He was always very comical and willing to help anyone.  While he enjoyed his retirement, his biggest love was his family and his two granddaughters.

Survivors include one son; Kenneth Wisbeski and his wife Kathleen of Lebanon Twp., NJ.  One daughter; Loralei Joyce Ellis and her husband Todd of Lakeland, FL.  Two granddaughters; Laura Joy Ellis and Trisha Jade Ellis, both of Lakeland, FL.  Charles will be dearly missed by many beloved family and friends.

Predeceased by three siblings; Genevieve Wisbeski, Paul Wisbeski and Joseph Wisbeski. 

A memorial picnic will take place at a later date at the ‘Redneck Yacht Club’ located at Charles’s former residence in Lebanon Twp.

Arrangements by Scarponi-Bright Funeral Home in Lebanon, NJ.

 

 

Edith A. Rusch-Schaal

Edith A. Rusch-Schaal, born March 16, 1930 died peacefully Friday July 13, 2018 at Silver Creek, St. Augustine, FL, with family at her side, after a courageous battle with Parkinson’s Disease. 

Edith was born, and grew up in The Bronx NY.  She worked at National Starch Chemical Company in Manhattan where she met her spouse.  They married and moved to New Jersey in 1952 where she raised three daughters.  After raising her daughters she spent the next few decades in the real estate and relocation businesses managing their offices.  Edith was patient and kind and loving wife, daughter, mother and grandmother. She loved animals, and took in many strays over the years.  She also had a passion for Girl Scouts in which all three daughters were involved.  

Edith will be deeply missed by her family and friends.  She was predeceased by her parents Richard & Wilhelmina (Millie) Rusch as well as her husband Heinz Schaal.  She is survived by her daughters Carleen Zimmerman (Joe) of St. Augustine, FL, Linda Marucci (John) of Charlotte, NC, and Christine Kallivokas (Scott) of Purcellville, VA; four grandsons, Jason (Mel) and Brandon Zimmerman, Nicholas and Stephen Kallivokas, and two great granddaughters, Rayden and Freya Zimmerman.

Graveside services will be held on Friday, July 27, 2018 at 12:00pm at Evergreen Cemetery, Halstead Street, Clinton, NJ, followed by a luncheon at a nearby restaurant in which family and friends are welcome.  Memorial donations may be made to "The American Parkinson's Disease Association" www.apdaparkinson.org in Edith's name.   

 

 

Mark Jeffrey DeLorenzo

Mark Jeffrey DeLorenzo passed away on Thursday, July 12, 2018 at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Somerset in Somerville, NJ. He was born on September 24, 1956.

Growing up in Hillsborough, he graduated from Somerset County Vo-Tech

with a degree in diesel mechanics. He later lived in Phillipsburg and last resided in Somerville.

He is survived by his mother; Doris M DeLorenzo, three brothers; Alfred V. Delorenzo Jr, Michael D. DeLorenzo, and Timothy H. DeLorenzo, his sister; Yvonne M Peters, two nephews; Ben and Caleb Peters and 1 niece; Ashley DeLorenzo.

He was predeceased by his father; Alfred V DeLorenzo Sr. and his son; Mark Jeffery DeLorenzo Jr.

He was a lifelong NY Giants fan. He was dedicated to helping his mother whom he loved dearly.

Service will be private. Rest in peace Mark, we all love you.

Arrangements by Scarponi-Bright Funeral Home in Lebanon, NJ. 

 

 

Kathryn Mae Gillespie

Kathryn Mae Gillespie, age 59, of Clinton Twp., NJ passed away on Monday, July 9, 2018 at the Hunterdon Medical Center in Raritan Twp., NJ.

She was born on October 10, 1958 in Rahway, NJ.  She resided in Clinton Twp., NJ since 1992, moving from Gladstone, NJ.

She was the daughter of the late Anthony and Ethel Biederstadt Smar.

She received her Master’s Degree from Rutgers University in Pharmacy. 

Kathryn was currently a Pharmaceutical Consultant with Pharma Care in Clinton, NJ.

Kathryn enjoyed baking, having tea with friends, going for walks, hiking and being outdoors.  Years ago, she enjoyed camping trips with her family.  Recently, she enjoyed doing Tai Chi.  Kathryn also loved her teacup yorkies Daisy and Eevie and her grand-puppies Archie and Maui. 

Survivors include one daughter; Amanda Gillespie and her husband Mike Waller of Eatontown, NJ.  One son; Kellen Gillespie and his significant other Annisa Huang of Seattle, WA.  Four sisters; Nancy Frey of Newark, DE, Alyce Stine and her husband Kevin of Robbinsville, NJ, Heather Pafchek and her husband Rob of Blandon, PA and Holly Baran and her husband Lew of Ringoes, NJ.  One brother; Anthony ‘Don’ Smar and his wife Sharon of Lebanon, NJ.  Eleven nieces and nephews and their families; Cory, Kyle, Jessica, Richard, Ryan, Zachary, Joshua, Bradley, Savannah, Kerstin and Ethan.  Kathryn is also survived by her ex-husband John ‘Dee’ Gillespie of Colts Neck, NJ.  Kathryn will be dearly missed by many friends, the Gillespie family as well as all extended families.    

Calling hours will take place on Saturday, July 14, 2018 from 12:30pm – 3pm with Memorial Service at 3pm at Scarponi-Bright Funeral Home, 26 Main Street, Lebanon, NJ.  Interment will be private. 

 

 

Joseph F. Krisanits

Joseph F. Krisanits, age 96, long-time resident of High Bridge, NJ passed away on Saturday, July 7, 2018 at Hunterdon Care Center in Raritan Twp., NJ.

He was born on July 27, 1921 in Elizabeth, NJ.  He resided in Elizabeth, NJ and High Bridge, NJ before moving to Hunterdon Care Center in Raritan Twp., NJ.

He was the son of the late Adam and Julia Eisenbeil Krisanits.

His wife, Margaret E. Krisanits, passed away in 2001.

Joseph was a World War II veteran, serving in the US Army from 1942 to 1946.

Joseph was a Sheet Metal Mechanic for his entire career.  He retired from working for Alpine Metal Products Inc. in Edison, NJ. 

Memberships include St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in High Bridge, NJ where he was also a member of their Holy Name Society.  Joseph was also a member of the Handyman Club of America.

Joseph loved woodworking.  He was also an avid Dodgers and Giants fan.

Survivors include one son; Michael and his wife Kathryn of High Bridge, NJ.  One daughter; Helen Meissner and her husband Robert of Myrtle Beach, SC.  Several grandchildren including; Sara, Ian, Matthew, Corey and William.  Several great-grandchildren.  He is also survived by his sister; Eva Milko of NJ.

Predeceased by three children; Joseph Krisanits, Donald Krisanits and Judi Scheckler.  He is also predeceased by five siblings; Adam, Tony, Julia, Anna and Frank.

Calling hours will be Friday, July 13, 2018 from 2-4pm and 7-9pm at Naughright-Scarponi Funeral Home, 66 Main Street, High Bridge, NJ.  Funeral Mass will take place on Saturday, July 14, 2018 at 10am at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, 59 Main Street, High Bridge, NJ.  Interment at Mountain View Cemetery in Cokesbury, NJ. 

 

 

Doris M. Kagan

 

Doris M. Kagan, age 85, longtime resident of Neshanic, NJ, passed away on Monday, July 2, 2018 at Rolling Hills Care Center in Clinton Twp., NJ.

She was born on November 4, 1932 in Westfield, NJ.  While she spent her childhood in Westfield, she resided in Neshanic for most of her life before moving to Rolling Hills Care Center in 2017.

She was the daughter of the late Raymond S. and Josephine Regg Quick.

Her husband, Salvatore Kagan, passed away in 2007.

Doris had several different jobs including working for RCA in Bridgewater, NJ years ago. 

Doris loved animals and she always enjoyed having dogs.

Survivors include her one daughter; Jean Dvorshak of Whitehouse Station, NJ.

Predeceased by one sister; Emily. 

Calling hours will be Saturday, July 7, 2018 from 9am – 11am with funeral service at 11am.  All at Scarponi-Bright Funeral Home, 26 Main Street, Lebanon, NJ.  Interment at Neshanic Cemetery in Hillsborough, NJ. 

Memorials can be made to a charity of one’s choice. 

 

 

Marion Collins

Marion Collins, 74, of Lebanon borough, NJ passed away on Wednesday, June 27, 2018 at The Hunterdon Care Center in Flemington, NJ after battling a long illness.

Marion was born on May 2, 1944 and raised in Westfield, NJ.  She resided in Hunterdon County for most of her life.

She was the daughter of the late Earnest Daniel and Ellen Katherine Mieckle Heilman. She was predeceased by her brother, Daniel Heilman.

Marion was a substitute teacher while raising her two daughters and went on to work for Brady Security and Reality in Gladstone and ultimately retired from Crum and Forster in Morristown where she was an Actuary Assistant.

She was involved in a number of volunteer activities, some of which include the Lebanon Borough 4th of July Parade, the Board of Adjustments and The Hunterdon Medical Center.

Marion enjoyed cooking, reading and spending time on Long Beach Island.   She had great love for four legged furry friends.  Her biggest passion was her family, specifically her grandchildren, whom she loved with all her heart.  She will be remembered as an amazing Gram, Mom, sister and friend to many.

Survivors include her two daughters; Judy Kemprowski of Clinton Twp., NJ.   Tracy Flatley and her husband Rob of Lebanon Twp., NJ.  Four grandchildren; Ryan, Owen, Liam and Emma.  She is also survived by her sister, Bett Willett of Deerfield Beach FL.

All services will be private.  Arrangements by Scarponi-Bright Funeral Home in Lebanon, NJ.   Memorials can be made to the Jason P. Schaible Memorial Fund, 54 Norma Road, Hampton, NJ 08827.

 

 

James 'Jim' Thomas Wenzel

James ‘Jim’ Thomas Wenzel, age 75, of Union Twp., NJ passed away on Friday, June 22, 2018 at the Hunterdon Medical Center in Raritan Twp., NJ. 

He was born on November 29, 1942 in Glen Gardner, NJ.  He was a lifelong resident of Hunterdon County. 

He was the son of June Bush Wenzel of Annandale, NJ and the late Hugo Ernest Wenzel.

Jim was a truck driver for most of his career until he started his own towing company, Ram Towing, in Pattenburg, NJ.

Jim loved trains and he enjoyed going to the TA Truck Stop in Bloomsbury, NJ and also Key City Diner in Phillipsburg, NJ.  He loved going to the diner and catching up with friends while he was there.  They always loving referred to him as “Tippy”. 

Survivors in addition to his mother include one brother; Robert Wenzel of Annandale, NJ and one sister; Nancy Wenzel of Flemington, NJ. Five nieces and nephews; Robert Wenzel and his wife Tina of Washington, NJ, Dawn Wenzel of Bloomsbury, NJ, William ‘Bill’ Wenzel and his wife Janice of Phillipsburg, NJ, Tammy Fuchs of Phillipsburg, NJ and Charlie Wenzel of Annandale, NJ. 

All services will be private.  Arrangements by Scarponi-Bright Funeral Home in Lebanon, NJ. 

 

 

Arlene 'Doris' McAlpine

Arlene ‘Doris’ McAlpine, age 95, of High Bridge, NJ passed away on Wednesday, June 20, 2018 at Hunterdon Care Center in Raritan Twp., NJ. 

She was born on May 19, 1923 in Youngstown, OH.  She resided in Arizona for many years before moving with her daughter in High Bridge, NJ in 2010.

She was the daughter of the late Clarence Baines and Celeste Agnes Fasig Boals.

Her husband, Michael Frederick McAlpine passed away over 10 years ago. 

Prior to her retirement, Doris was a Manager at NuArt Photo Service in Tucson, AZ. 

Doris was an avid reader and she loved to read mysteries.  Her family was most important to her and she enjoyed spending time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. 

Memberships include Clinton Methodist Church in Clinton, NJ where she enjoyed attending their Bible study group. She was also a member of Catalina United Methodist Church in Tucson, AZ.

Survivors include one daughter; Margaret Drew and her husband Stephen of High bridge, NJ.  One son; Harold McAlpine and his wife Kathleen of Tucson, AZ.  Five grandchildren; Stacy Ann Henegar and her husband Tracy of Tucson, AZ, Paul Scott McAlpine and his wife Stephanie of Gilbert, AZ, Eric Michael Drew and his wife Dulce of Dunellen, NJ, Christopher Arthur Drew of High Bridge, NJ and Jason McGann Drew of High Bridge, NJ.  Six great-grandchildren; Taylor Henegar, Spencer Henegar, Jordan McAlpine, Cameron McAlpine, Claire Isabela Drew and Emily Grace Drew. 

Predeceased by one son, Michael Frederick McAlpine Jr. and one daughter, Deborah Lee McAlpine. 

Visitation will take place on Wednesday, June 27, 2018 from 6pm – 6:30pm.  Funeral service will begin at 6:30pm.  All at Clinton United Methodist Church, 12 Halstead Street, in Clinton NJ. Interment will take place at East Lawn Palms Cemetery in Tucson, AZ.  Arrangements by Scarponi-Bright Funeral Home in Lebanon, NJ.

Memorials can be made to the Clinton Methodist Church, 12 Halstead Street, Clinton, NJ 08809. 

 

 

Amanda Louise Palmer

Amanda Louise Palmer, age 35, of Clinton, NJ passed away on Monday, June 18, 2018 at home.

She was born on March 24, 1983 in Belleville, NJ.  She spent most of her life in Hunterdon County.

She was the daughter of Harold Palmer of FL and Noreen Hickman Jervasi of Clinton Twp., NJ. 

Amanda currently worked for Everest Heath Care Services as a traveling LPN Nurse.  She loved working as a nurse and enjoyed helping people.

Amanda enjoyed crocheting and cooking.  She also loved makeup and fashion. 

Survivors in addition to her mother and father include one sister; Michelle Tertel and her husband Shaun of Lebanon, NJ.  One brother; David Palmer and his fiancée Antoinette Seppelt of Lambertville, NJ.  One niece; Mia Angelina Jervasi of Clinton Twp., NJ.  Amanda is also survived by her maternal grandmother ‘G.G.’ Evelyn Hickman of Lebanon, NJ. 

Predeceased by her step-father; Gerard Jervasi who passed away in 2012. 

All calling hours and services will be private.  Arrangements by Scarponi-Bright Funeral Home in Lebanon, NJ.

To view Amanda's video tribute, please click here. 

 

 

Clifford F. Platt

Clifford F. Platt, age 62, of Clinton, NJ passed away on Saturday, June 16, 2018 at New York Presbyterian/Columbia University Medical Center in New York, NY. 

He was born on June 26, 1955 in Rahway, NJ.   He resided in Clinton, NJ for the past 20 years, moving from Basking Ridge, NJ.

He was the son of the late Nat and Alice Albert Platt.

He was the husband of Rosemarie Platt, celebrating 30 years of marriage.

Clifford earned his Bachelor of Arts degree from Bloomfield College in 1976 and his Masters in Art Therapy from NYU in 1979.  During his college years, he enjoyed playing soccer.

In his past, he worked as an actor performing and directing in regional theater at venues including Edison Valley Playhouse and Villagers Theater. 

Years ago, Clifford was an entrepreneur.  At the time he owned and operated South Plainfield Liquors.

For the past 18 years, Clifford was a teacher at Warren Hills Regional High School in Washington, NJ where he taught Theatrical Arts and Public Speaking.  He was very active at the High School and participated in numerous outreach programs including ‘SADD’ and the library showcases for anti-school violence and anti-bullying. 

Years ago, Clifford coached his daughter’s Skyland softball teams and he also coached his son’s CCYA baseball team. 

Clifford actively volunteered at the Clinton Red Mill Museum for the past 15 years, specifically during the Halloween season each year.  He loved the town of Clinton and loved his neighbors.

If there is one word that would summarize Clifford, it would be ‘selfless’.  He was very charitable and always willing to help anyone. 

Clifford loved the beach.  He specifically enjoyed going to Cape May with his family and was always the first one in the water when they arrived to their favorite vacation spot.  He loved playing the arcade games with his children and was known as a ‘master ski ball player’. 

Clifford also enjoyed playing miniature golf and going to restaurants – especially for sushi. 

Survivors in addition to his loving wife include daughter; Danielle-Mari Platt and her fiancé Vincent Samouhos of Alexandria Twp., NJ and son; Tyler Jake Platt of Clinton, NJ.  Two sisters; Paula Yukna of Fort Lauderdale, FL and Wendy Trackim and her husband Edward of New Providence, NJ.  His step-mother; Margie Platt of Berkeley Heights, NJ and several nieces and nephews including Rachel, Jessica, Andrew and Thomas.  Clifford is also survived by his fur babies; Maggie and Clancy and also his granddog; Toby. 

Predeceased by one brother; Michael Platt who passed away 20 years ago. 

Calling hours will be Friday, June 22, 2018 from 2-4pm and 7-9pm at Scarponi-Bright Funeral Home, 26 Main Street, Lebanon, NJ.  Funeral service will take place on Saturday, June 23, 2018 at 10am at Clinton Presbyterian Church, 91 Center Street, Clinton, NJ.  Entombment at Immaculate Conception Mausoleum in Annandale, NJ.

Memorials can be made to Clifford Platt Warren Hills Fine Arts Memorial Scholarship, 44 Center Street, Clinton, NJ 08809. 

 

 

Robert "Bob" M. Messinger

 

Robert “Bob” M. Messinger, age 71, of Clinton Twp., NJ fell asleep in death at home on Thursday, May 31, 2018 after battling a long illness.

He was born on July 8, 1946 in Somerville, NJ where he grew up and spent the early years of his marriage.  He then moved to Clinton Twp., NJ with his young family, where he resided for 41 years.  During that time he worked very hard, dedicated to raising and supporting his family, until his retirement in 2012.

A master at the art of fly fishing, Bob caught the catch of his life, Geraldine “Gerri” R. Newcomb Messinger in 1969.  They celebrated 48 beautiful years of marriage and treasured each day they had together. 

In addition to his devoted, loving wife, he also leaves behind three daughters: Renée Alison Gupta and her husband Raj of Franklin Park, NJ, Lisa Kaye Piatt of Washington, NJ, and Heidi Lynn Borst and her husband Chad of Maplewood, NJ.  His four grandchildren were his pride and joy: Jade Piatt, Jamison Piatt, Jazmine Piatt, and Brody Borst.  He was the son of Beatrice Mae Harmon Messinger of Branchburg, NJ, whom he adored, and was predeceased by his loving father, Montfort Miller Messinger.  He is also survived by three sisters; Susan Horgos and her husband Michael, Shirley Messinger, and Stella Hickey and her husband Philip.  Bob also leaves behind many nieces, nephews, and cousins who loved him dearly.

He was associated with the Lebanon Congregation of Jehovah’s Witnesses in Annandale, NJ for many years.  He cherished the hope for the future held out in the Bible and had many dear friends in the congregation that brought him encouragement during his most challenging illness.

Bob, an avid outdoorsman from an early age, loved Jehovah’s creation and spent much of his time outdoors.  He enjoyed hunting, fishing, hiking and searching for arrowheads.  He especially loved fresh water fly fishing and had a passion for tying his own flies. He shared his love of fly fishing with his family and friends, teaching them the craft of the sport.  He also loved to fish the fly stretches in the New England states. 

All services will be private.  Arrangements by Scarponi-Bright Funeral Home in Lebanon, NJ. 

 

 

David Michael Kurtiak

David Michael Kurtiak, age 52, of Clinton, NJ passed away on Saturday, June 9, 2018 at home.

He was born on October 16, 1965 in Perth Amboy, NJ.  He grew up in Pittstown, NJ and in 1991 he moved to Clinton, NJ.

He was the son of the late Carl and Elizabeth Guliano Kurtiak.

He was the husband of Mary Jo Petrozelli Kurtiak, celebrating 27 years of marriage. 

David received his Bachelors of Science degree from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro and his Masters from the University of Colorado Boulder. 

He worked for many years as a network engineer for Loral Skynet in Bedminster, NJ. 

David was an avid and award-winning home brewer as well as a certified beer judge.  He was a member of the Lehigh Valley Home Brewers, the Morris Area Society of Home Brewers and the American Home Brewers Association ‘AHA’.

David was a railroad train enthusiast and he also enjoyed being a part of Adventure Guides with his sons through the YMCA in Flemington, NJ.  He also spent several years volunteering as a firefighter for the Clinton Fire Department.   

David most enjoyed spending time with his family and watching his sons grow.

Survivors in addition to his loving wife include two sons; Timothy James Kurtiak of Baltimore, MD and Andrew Christopher Kurtiak of Clinton, NJ.  One brother; Philip Kurtiak and his wife Sheila of Gibsonville, NC.  One sister; Vanessa Rice and her husband Joseph of Apex, NC.  Six nieces and nephews; Ryan Kurtiak, Savannah Kurtiak, Madelyn Rice, Audrey Rice, Liam Rice and Emma Jane Rice.

Calling hours will be Friday, June 15, 2018 from 7-9pm at Scarponi-Bright Funeral Home, 26 Main Street, Lebanon, NJ.  Additional calling hours will be held at the Scarponi-Bright Funeral Home on Saturday, June 16, 2018 from 8:30 to 9:30 am.  Funeral Mass will take place afterward at 10am at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, 316 Old Allerton Road, Annandale, NJ.  Inurnment will be at the Immaculate Conception Mausoleum.

Memorials can be made to Hunterdon Regional Cancer Center, 2100 Wescott Drive, Flemington, NJ 08822.   

 

 

Michael Orme

Michael Orme, age 59, of Glen Gardner, NJ passed away on Tuesday, June 5, 2018 at the VA Lyons Inpatient Hospice and Palliative Care Unit in Lyons, NJ after battling pancreatic cancer.

He was born on March 19, 1959 in Point Pleasant, NJ.  He was a lifelong resident of New Jersey in the Hudson and Hunterdon County areas. 

He was the son of the late George Ethan and Eleanor Loretta Durkee Orme.

Michael was a graduate of Kearny High School in Kearny, NJ.

Michael was a US Navy veteran serving from 1981 to 1983.

In the past, he worked for the VA NJ Heath Care System as a custodian.

Michael was an avid NY Mets fan.  He also enjoyed building model cars and cooking.

A private inurnment at Brigadier General William C. Doyle Memorial Cemetery in Wrightstown, NJ will take place at a later date.  Arrangements by Scarponi-Bright Funeral Home in Lebanon, NJ. 

Memorials can be made to Alcoholics Anonymous, Box 459, Grand Central Station, New York, NY 10163. 

 

 

Edward M. Wheeler

Edward M. Wheeler, age 78, of Greenwich Twp., NJ passed away on Sunday, June 3, 2018 at Robert Wood Johnson Hospital in New Brunswick, NJ.

He was born on March 30, 1940 in Ellenville, NY.  Edward resided in Greenwich Twp., NJ since November of 2017, moving from Whitehouse Station, NJ.

He was the son of the late George and Anna Stinard Wheeler.

He was the husband of Lorraine Ann Muller Wheeler, celebrating 19 years of marriage.

Edward was a Carpenter for Kitchens Direct Inc. in Hillsborough, NJ until his retirement.

Edward loved farming.  He learned to farm as a young child, and continued his passion on his own farm in Whitehouse Station for many years.  He also enjoyed building things, woodworking, country music and polka.  Most of all, he loved spending time with his grandchildren. 

Survivors in addition to his wife include his loving children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, two sisters and one brother. 

Edward is predeceased by one sister.

Calling hours will be Sunday, June 10, 2018 from 10am to 2pm.  Funeral Service will take place on Monday, June 11, 2018 at 11am.  All at Scarponi-Bright Funeral Home, 26 Main Street, Lebanon, NJ.  Interment at Washington Crossing National Cemetery in Newtown, PA.

Memorials can be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105 or by visiting Ed's personal St. Jude's memorial page here. 

 

 

Barbara M. Nicholas

 

Barbara M. Nicholas, age 102, of Pittstown, NJ passed away on Friday, June 1, 2018 at Country Arch Care Center in Pittstown, NJ.

She was born on December 3, 1915 in New York, NY.  She resided at Country Arch Care Center since 2005, moving from High Bridge, NJ. 

She was the daughter of the late Irwin and Chava Zitsman Doverman.

Her husband, Edwin Nicholas, passed away in 2004.

Upon her High School graduation, Barbara attended Hunter College in New York, NY.  She also worked on the Manhattan Project in Oak Ridge, TN. 

Barbara worked at the Hunterdon Developmental Center in Clinton, NJ for many years.

Memberships include the North Hunterdon Senior Center, the VFW in New Milford, NJ and past-member of High Bridge Methodist Church.

Barbara was an avid reader and she enjoyed sewing and crocheting.  In the past she also enjoyed dancing at Roseland.

Survivors include her two daughters; Susan N. Hoffman and her husband Peter of Arlington, TX and Lorraine N. Meehan and her husband John of Calabash, NC.  Two grandchildren; Rebekah Jane Lambert and her husband Ryan Henderson and Jesse Lambert and his wife Kesha Adams.  Four great-grandchildren; Merry Jane Maddy, Olivia Jane Henderson, Allisun Jane Henderson and Laura Ruth Bell.  One great-great-grandson; Apollo Ryan Renteria. 

Graveside service will take place on Monday, June 4, 2018 at 11am at George Washington Memorial Park in Paramus, NJ.  Arrangements by Scarponi-Bright Funeral Home in Lebanon, NJ. 

Memorials can be made to the North Hunterdon Senior Center, 285 County Road 513, Glen Gardner, NJ 08826. 

 

 

Roxann Cox Phillips

Roxann Cox Phillips, age 56, of Wind Gap, PA passed away on May 27, 2018 peacefully at her home after a long, courageous battle with COPD.

She was born on April 15, 1962 to the late Samuel Cox and Rosemary Brownlee Cox.

She enjoyed crocheting, long rides on the motorcycle with her husband and spending time with her children and grandchildren.  She was also an avid 49ers fan and enjoyed taking vacation trips to Missouri.  

Years ago, Roxann worked as a waitress at the TA Truckstop in Bloomsbury, NJ where she met her husband and many friends from all over the world.  Recently, she worked at the deli at Giant in Wind Gap, PA. 

Roxann is survived by her husband Joseph Phillips, Daughters Shantae Gara, Amy Adam, her Son Floyd Burd Jr, her thirteen grandchildren, her Brother Samuel Cox, her Sister Lisa Cox and several nieces and nephews.

Roxann has touched many lives and will always remain in our hearts.  

Calling hours will be on Friday, June 1, 2018 from 12pm – 2pm and 4pm – 6pm.  Funeral will follow at 6pm.  All at Naughright-Scarponi Funeral Home, 66 Main Street, High Bridge, NJ. Interment will be private.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Funeral Home.  

 

 

Helen Jacqueline 'Jacquie' Griffin Baker

Helen Jacqueline ‘Jacquie’ Griffin Baker, age 92, of Raritan Twp., NJ passed away on Friday, May 25, 2018 at Independence Manor in Raritan Twp., NJ.

She was born on August 4, 1925 in Clinton, NJ.  She lived in Hunterdon County for most of her life.  After retirement she moved to Hernando Beach, Florida with her husband and returned to New Jersey in 2016.

She was the daughter of the late William and Helen Sherrerd Griffin.

Her beloved husband, George J. Baker, passed away in 2016 after 70 years of marriage.

Jacquie was a Registered Nurse.  She received her training at The Presbyterian Hospital in Newark, NJ through the Cadet Nurse Corp Training Act to serve as a Navy nurse. She earned Senior Nurse Cadet status. The war ended just as she completed the required 30 months of training and the government did not require her service. She worked in a private in-patient clinic in Glen Gardner. She eventually served as the Director of Nurses for Edna Mahan Correctional Facility for Women in Clinton, NJ.

She was a member of several clubs for gardening, crafts, dance, and boating. She also enjoyed going to activities at the VFW and Elks with her husband. She was a competitive game player and a worthy Rumicube opponent. 

Jacquie’s love for her husband was undeniable as the two of them enjoyed doing everything together.  They enjoyed ballroom dancing and cruising on ocean liners with friends and family. The couple loved boating, fishing, reading and traveling.  Immediately after retirement over the course of several months, they traveled most of America in their motor-home, eventually visiting all 50 states. They loved the outdoors and also enjoyed camping. 

Survivors include two sons; George J. Baker and his wife Carol of Califon, NJ and Lawrence R. Baker and his wife Susan of Harpers Ferry, WV.  Two daughters; Helen ‘Lynn’ Stoneback and her husband Carl of Asbury, NJ and Pamela L. Halligan and her husband Frank of Waterloo, NY.  Ten grandchildren; Jennifer Baker, Christopher Baker and his wife Deborah, Keith Baker and his wife Giordana, Tara Baker Davis, Alison Jobe and her husband Jesse Jobe, Rebecca Stoneback, Carl Stoneback, Patrick Halligan and his fiancée Ida Waterman, Sarah Smith and her husband Jamie and Scott Halligan and his wife Ashley.  Seventeen great-grandchildren; Richard Burd, Julia Burd, Joshua Burd, Griffin Baker, Betty Jane Davis, Benjamin Baker, Ana Baker, David Baker, Joshua Baker, Amy Doner, Gabrielle Jobe, Kyleigh Halligan, Anika Halligan and Nathaniel Halligan, Carter Smith, Colton Smith and Coralyn Smith.  Jacquie is also survived by her brother; Donald Griffin and his wife Jane of NJ and Florida.  In addition to her loving husband, Jacquie is predeceased by two brothers; William D. Griffin, Jr., J. Maxwell S. Griffin and her sister, Joan Fish.

All services will be private with interment in the Veterans Honor Garden in the Somerset Hills Cemetery, Basking Ridge, NJ.  Arrangements by Scarponi-Bright Funeral Home in Lebanon, NJ. 

 

 

Roger E. Cregar Sr.

Roger E. Cregar Sr., age 75, lifelong resident of High Bridge, NJ passed away on Monday, May 21, 2018 at the Hunterdon Medical Center in Raritan Twp., NJ. 

He was born on June 23, 1942 in High Bridge, NJ. 

He was the son of the late Wilson Louis Cregar Sr. and Edna M. Sigler Cregar. 

Roger worked for Robert E. Lee Land Surveyors and for the High Bridge Road Department for most of his career. 

Memberships include High Bridge Volunteer Fire Department and Bunnvale Assembly of God.

Roger was a Phillies and Dolphins fan.  Years ago, he played softball on local High Bridge teams.  Roger enjoyed going to Gronsky’s and High Bridge Breakfast Club.  He also loved his cat, Buddy. 

Survivors include one son; Roger Cregar Jr. (Blanca) Brown of New Port Richie, FL.  Two daughters; Cheryl Rice (Tim) of Seminole, FL and Ronda Roberts of Holiday, FL.  Nine  grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.   Roger is also survived by one brother; Gary A. Cregar (Dolores) of AZ and one sister; Betty Carling (Dave) of Port St. Lucie, FL and sister-in-law;  Jakey. 

Predeceased by one brother; Wilson Louis Cregar Jr.

His love for Bryan, Tim and Shannon Hoffman that he took under his wing will always be remembered. 

Funeral Service will take place on Saturday, June 2, 2018 at 11am at  High Bridge Reformed Church, 23 Church Street, High Bridge, NJ.  Interment at Evergreen Cemetery in Clinton, NJ.  Arrangements by Naughright-Scarponi Funeral Home in High Bridge, NJ. 

Memorials can be made to Bunnvale Assembly of God, 285 County Rd. 513, Glen Gardner, NJ 08826. 
To view Roger's video tribute please click here.

 

 

Edward Thomas Jurkowski

Edward Thomas Jurkowski, age 61, of Easton, PA passed away on Thursday, May 24, 2018 at St. Luke’s Hospice in Bethlehem, PA. 

He was born on June 2, 1956 in Fredericksburg, VA.  He resided in Easton, PA for many years, moving from Clinton Twp., NJ.

He was the son of Irene M. Boszczuk Jurkowski of Clinton Twp., NJ and the late Bernard A. Jurkowski.

He was a graduate of Lincoln Technical Institute, specializing in Automotive Mechanics.

Edward owned and operated Jurkowski Contracting in Easton, PA for over 25 years. 

He was a past member of Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Annandale, NJ and the Clinton Elks.

Edward loved cars, and in the past he enjoyed working on a pit crew.  He also loved fishing. 

Survivors in addition to his mother include two brothers; Bernard Jurkowski and his wife Carol of Canton, PA and Stephen Jurkowski and his wife Patti Otani of Phillipsburg, NJ.  One brother-in-law; Bill Gall.  Ten nieces and nephews;  Bernie Jurkowski, Sheri Peterson, Kimberly Clark, Chrissy Izso, Brian Jurkowski, Michael Gall, David Gall, Jonathan Gall, Daniel Gall and Trevor Jurkowski.

Predeceased by one sister; Helen Gall and one brother; Thomas Jurkowski who passed away in February of 2018. 

Calling hours will be Monday, May 28, 2018 from 2-4pm and 7-9pm at Scarponi-Bright Funeral Home, 26 Main Street, Lebanon, NJ.  Funeral Mass will take place on Tuesday, May 29, 2018 at 10am at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Annandale, NJ.  Interment at Old St. Mary’s Cemetery in Clinton, NJ. 

 

 

Catherine 'Kay' Lucy Lukensow

Catherine Lucy Lukensow, age 90, of Lebanon Township, NJ passed away on April 27, 2018 at Little Brook Nursing Home in Lebanon Township, NJ.

Everyone knew her as ‘Kay’.  She was born on January 7, 1928 in Jermyn, PA.  She spent most of her life in Iselin, NJ and Clinton, NJ before moving to Little Brook Nursing Home in 2013.

She was the daughter of the late John and Eleanor Chimhusky Muszalkiewicz.

Her husband, John Lukensow, the love of her life, passed away in 2012 after 64 years of marriage.

Kay enjoyed working for Shop Rite in Iselin as a cashier for many years.

Memberships include Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Annandale, NJ.

Kay enjoyed reading, doing crossword puzzles and traveling to Florida in the winter.  Most of all, Kay loved her family and enjoyed spending time with them.  She was such a giving, loving person who always had a welcoming smile and kind word for everyone.  Her generosity of her time and love knew no bounds.

Survivors include three daughters; Karen Boiko and her husband Stephan of Annapolis, MD, Jane Zenko and her husband Mark of South Bradenton, FL and Mary Adamcik and her husband Frank of Bethlehem Township, NJ.  Four grandsons; Alexander Boiko and his wife Brynn, Daniel Zenko and his fiancée Alisha, Ryan Zenko and his wife Stephanie, and Erik Adamcik.  One granddaughter; Laura Gimson and her husband Doug.  Two great-grandchildren; Stefan and Elyse Boiko.  Kay is also survived by her sister; Arlene Kissolovege of Jermyn, PA. 

Predeceased in addition to her husband by three sisters; Marion, Claire and Eleanor. 

Calling hours will be Tuesday, May 1, 2018 from 7-9pm at Scarponi-Bright Funeral Home, 26 Main Street, Lebanon, NJ.  Friends and family are welcome to gather at the funeral home on Wednesday, May 2, 2018 at 9:30 am and Funeral Mass will follow at 11am at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, 316 Old Allerton Road, Annandale, NJ.  Interment at Immaculate Conception Cemetery in Annandale, NJ. 

In lieu of flowers, please pray for Kay or memorials can be sent to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105. 

 

 

Mark M. Gogal

Mark M. Gogal, age 44, of Clinton Twp., NJ passed away on Wednesday, April 18, 2018 at home.

He was born on May 16, 1973 in Plainfield, NJ.  He was a lifelong resident of Hunterdon County.

He was the son of John and Carmeada Matthews Gogal of Clinton Twp., NJ.

Mark was a graduate of North Hunterdon Regional High School, class of 1991.  Mark also graduated from Marywood College with his Bachelor’s Degree in Business Marketing.

Mark was currently working for Simply Clean Air and Water as a Technician.

Mark loved hunting, fishing and being outdoors.  He loved animals and enjoyed living on his farm in Clinton Twp.  He also loved to play softball and was playing on multiple leagues.  In college, he enjoyed playing basketball, tennis and baseball. 

Survivors in addition to his parents include his sister; Maria Gogal of Clinton Twp., NJ.  Mark will also be dearly missed by many Aunts, Uncles and Cousins.

He was predeceased by his brother; John Gogal who passed away in 1990. 

Calling hours will be Sunday, April 22, 2018 from 2-4pm and 6-8pm with funeral service at 7pm.  All at Scarponi-Bright Funeral Home, 26 Main Street, Lebanon, NJ.  Interment will be private. 

 

 

Genoveffa 'Genny' Morelli

Genoveffa ‘Genny’ Morelli, age 94, of Clinton Twp., NJ passed away on Sunday, April 15, 2018 at Rolling Hills Care Center in Clinton Twp., NJ. 

She was born on October 28, 1923 in Borgo Val di Taro, Italy.  She resided at Rolling Hills Care Center for the past 3 years, moving from Clinton, NJ.

Genny was the daughter of the late Domenico and Rosa Bianco.

Her husband, Ernest Morelli, passed away in 1997. 

Genny taught private Italian lessons and took great pride in her work.  She loved teaching the Italian language and had many distinguished students including Tony Bennett. 

Genny loved cooking and spending time with her family.  She will always be remembered as being a very charismatic person. 

Memberships include the Jehovah’s Witness Kingdom Hall in Annandale, NJ. 

Survivors include her daughter; Elena Garrison and her husband Christopher of Clinton, NJ.  One son; Robert Morelli of Alexandria Twp., NJ.  Two granddaughters; Liana Melendez and her husband Theodore of Bayonne, NJ and Jenna Mogavero and her husband Giosia of Easton, PA.  Four great-grandchildren; Josiah Rivas, Nevaeh Melendez, Serafina Mogavero and Marcello Mogavero.  She is also survived by two siblings; Tonino Bianco and his wife Aurora and Annamaria Brandolini, both of Italy. 

Predeceased in addition to her husband by eight siblings. 

Memorial Talk will take place on Saturday, April 21, 2018 at 2pm at the Kingdom Hall located at 54 Pittstown Road, Annandale, NJ 08801. 

Arrangements by Scarponi-Bright Funeral Home in Lebanon, NJ.

 

 

Victor J. Cuccolo Sr.

Victor J. Cuccolo Sr., age 97, of Lebanon, NJ passed away on Monday, April 9, 2018 at the Hunterdon Care Center in Flemington, NJ. 

He was born on March 8, 1921 in Orange, NJ.  He spent many years in Kearny, NJ and the past 15 years in Lebanon Borough, NJ. 

He was the son of the late Antonio and Catherine Vitale Cuccolo.

His beloved wife, Evelyn Marie Matarazzo Cuccolo, passed away in 2005. 

Victor was a US Army Veteran, serving during World War II from 1942 to 1943.

Early in Victor’s career, he owned and operated several restaurants and catering businesses.  Continuing his culinary skills, he worked and retired from the Essex County Department of Corrections. Upon his retirement, he worked for Macy’s in Livingston, NJ. 

Memberships include Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Annandale, NJ. 

Victor was very family oriented.  He loved spending all his time with his family and keeping in touch everyday with those who lived far.  He will always be remembered for being very social with a big smile on his face.  He loved cooking, wine making and smoking cigars.  He also enjoyed playing a good game of cards with family and friends, golfing and watching sports.

Survivors include one daughter; Donna M. Marshall and her husband Paul of Clinton Twp., NJ.  One son; Victor J. Cuccolo Jr. of Lebanon, NJ.  Two grandchildren; Brittani Marshall of Clinton Twp., NJ and Brian Marshall of Clinton Twp., NJ.  Three siblings; Catherine Zeoli of Saint Petersburg, FL, Helen Salerno of Morristown, NJ, and Carmen Cuccolo and his wife Joan of Milltown, NJ.  He is also survived by many loving nieces and nephews. 

Predeceased by five siblings; Joseph Cuccolo, Anthony Cuccolo, Samuel Cuccolo, John Cuccolo and Mary Cavanaugh. 

Calling hours will be Friday, April 13, 2018 from 4pm to 8pm.  Funeral service will take place on Saturday, April 14, 2018 at 11am.  All at Scarponi-Bright Funeral Home, 26 Main Street, Lebanon, NJ.  Interment will be private.

Memorials can be made to the Hunterdon Medical Center Foundation, 2100 Wescott Drive, Flemington, NJ 08822. 

 

 

Shannon Casey Delaney

Shannon Casey Delaney, age 24, passed away on Monday, April 9, 2018 at Hackettstown Regional Medical Center in Hackettstown, NJ. 

She was born on December 23, 1993 in Westwood, NJ.  She resided in Hunterdon County for most of her life.

She was the daughter of Raymond Croney of Bergenfield, NJ and Danielle Delaney of Lebanon, NJ. 

Shannon loved fashion, art and drawing.  She also loved to help others.  She always put everyone before herself.  She will always be remembered for having a big heart and being very giving. 

Survivors in addition to her Mother, Danielle Delaney and Father, Raymond Croney include her step-mother, Hope Blecher.  Two brothers; Declan Delaney of Newfoundland, PA and Dennis Hewett of WA.  Three half-sisters; Hope Delaney of Lebanon, NJ, Krystyn Croney of Lodi, NJ and Brianna Croney.  She is also survived by her best friend; Anna-Lisa Erikson of OH.   Shannon will also be dearly missed by many Aunts, Uncles, cousins and her Pomeranian puppy, Mango.  

Calling hours will be Sunday, April 15, 2018 from 2-4pm at Scarponi-Bright Funeral Home, 26 Main Street, Lebanon, NJ.  Interment will be private. 

Memorials can be made in Shannon’s name to Teen Challenge, www.tcnewjersey.org: 245 Stanton Mountain Road, Lebanon, NJ 08833 (973)-374-2206 director@tcnewjersey.org

 

 

Edward Josef Becker

Edward Josef Becker, age 88, of Franklin Twp., NJ passed away on Wednesday, March 28, 2018 at Morristown Memorial Hospital in Morristown, NJ. 

He was born on August 13, 1929 in Clark Twp., NJ.  Edward spent his childhood in Three Bridges, NJ and Baptistown, NJ.  He resided in Franklin Twp., NJ with his wife since 1960.

He was the son of the late Albert C. and Julia H. Peters Becker. 

Edward was the husband of Maria T. Lang Becker, celebrating 64 years of marriage.

Edward was a graduate of Frenchtown High School. 

He was a Korean War Veteran, serving as Corporal in the US Army from 1951 to 1953.  During his military service, he worked in occupational forces.  He was stationed in Austria where he met his wife at Camp McCauley. 

On the GI Bill, Edward attended Trenton Tech.   

Edward was a Sergeant for the New Jersey State Police.  Throughout his career he worked in Bordentown, Netcong, Washington and Flemington, NJ.  He retired with the State Police in 1985.

Memberships include Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Annandale, NJ where he was also a member of the Knights of Columbus. 

Edward enjoyed hunting, fishing, gardening and wine making.  He was very handy and loved to fix things. 

Survivors in addition to his loving wife include one son; Eric Becker and his wife Susan of Annandale, NJ.  One daughter; Ingrid Hansen of Pittstown, NJ.  Five grandchildren; Amanda Becker, Jeffrey Becker, Carolyn Gallagher and her husband Brian, Jack Morrison and Katie Morrison.  Two great-grandchildren; Jackson and Levi.  He is also survived by four siblings; Bob Becker, Patsy Rover, Doris Alpaugh and Helen Ihling. 

Predeceased by three brothers; George Becker, Richard Becker and Albert Becker. 

Calling hours will be Thursday, April 12, 2018 from 2-4pm and 7-9pm at Scarponi-Bright Funeral Home, 26 Main Street, Lebanon, NJ.  Funeral Mass will take place on Friday, April 13, 2018 at 10am at Immaculate Conception Church, 316 Old Allerton Road, Annandale, NJ.  Interment at Immaculate Conception Cemetery in Annandale, NJ. 

Memorials can be made to Immaculate Conception School, 314 Old Allerton Road, Annandale, NJ 08801. 

 

 

Gloria M. (Farber) Kelly

Gloria M. (Farber) Kelly, age 93, of Pittstown, NJ passed away peacefully on Tuesday, April 3, 2018 at Country Arch Care Center in Pittstown, NJ surround by her family.

She was born on November 29, 1924 in Milwaukee, WI. As a young girl her family moved to Pittsburg, PA then Westfield, NJ where she graduated from Holy Trinity High School. She married her beloved husband Lawrence June 17, 1950 and raised her family in Lincroft, NJ.  In her later years, she and Lawrence moved to Cokesbury, NJ and then Gloria moved to Country Arch Care Center in 2006.

She was the daughter of the late Arthur J. and Marguerite Shea Farber. 

Her husband, Lawrence C. Kelly passed away in 2004. 

Gloria worked for the telephone company and also a bank in New York City in her younger years.  After she married, she was a homemaker caring for her four children.  Later in life, Gloria worked for A.M. Best in Oldwick, NJ.

Gloria loved to travel and she was always very social.  She had a great love for all animals and would stop to rescue any injured creature she found on the roadside during her travels. She made a lot of friends over the years and was known for her sense of humor and quick wit. 

Memberships include Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Annandale, NJ. 

Survivors include one son; Patrick Kelly and his wife Sherrie of Atlanta, GA.  Three daughters; Theresa M. Kelly of Cokesbury, NJ, Catherine M. Kelly of Califon, NJ and Sharon Kelly-Baker and her husband Louis of Lebanon Twp., NJ.  Five grandchildren; Sara (Baker) Catalano, Molly Baker, Patrick Kelly Jr., Laura Kelly and Karen Kelly.  One sister; Jean Mahoney of MD. 

Graveside services will take place on Thursday, April 5, 2018 at 1:30pm at Mountain View Cemetery in Cokesbury, NJ.  Arrangements by Scarponi-Bright Funeral Home in Lebanon, NJ. 

 

 

Arthur 'Arty' Peter Reed

Arthur ‘Arty’ Peter Reed, age 42, of High Bridge, NJ tragically passed away on Monday, March 26, 2018 after an automobile accident in Hopewell Twp., NJ.

He was born on February 14, 1976 in Flemington, NJ.  He resided in High Bridge, NJ for several years moving from Lambertville, NJ.  He was a lifelong resident of Hunterdon County.

He was the son of Alice L. Harvey Reed of High Bridge, NJ and the late Robert C. Reed Jr. who passed away in January of 2017. 

Arty was a Tow Truck Driver, working for Dave’s Sunoco and Towing in Ringoes, NJ.  Arty loved driving a tow truck and enjoyed his job.

Arty loved to work on cars.  He was well known for painting his car several different colors, including camouflage and zebra print.  He enjoyed going to his Uncle’s house and working on cars as well.  Arty also enjoyed fishing and he loved getting lottery tickets.  He would also enjoy having coffee every morning with his family.  He always made his family and friends smile.  Arty was also known as ‘Hoopty’ or ‘Hoopty Do’.  An 8 year old family friend always referred to Arty as ‘his Batman’ as he always had his favorite Batman hat on.

Survivors in addition to his Mother, Alice L. Reed of High Bridge, NJ,  include his girlfriend of 13 years; Lisa Vargas.  He is also survived by one daughter; Ashley Reed and her boyfriend Ben Pysher of Wind Gap, PA.  One son; Keith Naylor of Lambertville, NJ.  Two step-sons; Donald Hoagland of Doylestown, PA and Ryan Hoagland of FL.  Five siblings; Tabitha Doughty and her husband Jody of High Bridge, NJ, Samantha ‘Sammy’ Leary of Lambertville, NJ, Robert ‘Bobby’ Reed III and his girlfriend Linda McWilliams of Lambertville, NJ, Freda Reed of High Bridge, NJ and Kenneth Reed and his wife April of Interlachen, FL.  Sixteen nieces and nephews; John Tancredi, Cade Doughty, Austin Doughty, Dylan Reed, Lea Wharton, Mark Lery Jr., Patrick Leary, Collin Leary, David Wharton, Hannah Word, Brittney Reed, Robert Reed, Kayla Reed, Zachary Reed, Gregory Reed, Elizabeth Brown and many nieces and nephews in Ohio.  One great-nephew; Jonathan Tancredi Jr.

Predeceased in addition to his father by his brother-in-law, Mark Lery who died in the car accident with him.  He is also predeceased by his step-brother, Tommy Wiemer. 

Calling hours will be Friday, April 6, 2018 from 7pm to 9pm.  Funeral service will be Saturday, April 7, 2018 at 11am.  All at Scarponi-Bright Funeral Home, 26 Main Street, Lebanon, NJ.  Interment at Lower Valley Cemetery in Califon, NJ. 

Memorials can be made to Arty's Go Fund Me page by clicking here. 

To view Arty''s video tribute, please click here. 

 

 

Nathan Loyd Lindabury

Nathan Loyd Lindabury, age 99, of New Canaan, CT passed away on Wednesday, March 21, 2018 at Stamford Hospital in Stamford, CT.

He was born on October 29, 1918 in Lebanon, NJ. He spent his childhood in Hunterdon County, NJ before moving to Philadelphia, PA and various cities in NY.  59 years ago, he moved to CT. 

He was the son of the late Loyd and Leila McCatharn Lindabury.  He was the grandson of the late Frederick and Mary Jane Lindabury.

His wife, Mary Haycock Lindabury, passed away in 2006 after 62 years of marriage.

Nathan was an Officer during World War II.  He enlisted with the US Army on April 3, 1942 at West Point and was in all five Battle Campaigns until he was honorably discharged in 1945.

Nathan was a graduate of Ohio Northern University in Ada, OH where he was a History and Physical Education major. 

He was an IBM Executive for 50 years where he worked for the company in various cities including New York City, Albany, NY, Philadelphia, PA and Armonk, NY.  After his retirement with IBM, Nathan returned to care for the family farm in Tewksbury, NJ – a legacy which has been in the family since the late 1800’s. 

Memberships include New Canaan Methodist Church and past member of Cokesbury, NJ United Methodist Church where he was also a Cokesbury, NJ Cemetery Trustee.  Nathan was also a member at Silvermine Golf Club in Norwalk, CT.  Nathan was also a member of the Advisory Boards for Ohio Northern University and Curtis Home in Meriden, CT. 

Nathan enjoyed all sports especially football, baseball and basketball.  He coached sports for many years when his son was playing, and even continued after his son was grown.  He was also a past Football Scout for West Point where he covered territory in NJ, NY and CT.    

Survivors include his daughter; Virginia ‘Jena’; Lindabury Hoxie and her husband Richard Hoxie of Burlington, CT.  One son; Thomas ‘Bo’ L. Lindabury of New Canaan, CT.  One granddaughter; Kelley Hoxie of Burlington, CT.

Predeceased in addition to his wife by one sister; Charlotte Lindabury Marshall.

Calling hours will take place on Saturday, March 31, 2018 from 10:30am to 12pm.  Funeral Service will be immediately following at 12pm.  All at Scarponi-Bright Funeral Home, 26 Main Street, Lebanon, NJ.  Interment at Cokesbury Cemetery in Lebanon, NJ. 

Memorials can be made to Ohio Northern University Nathan L. Lindabury & Family Scholarship, 525 South Main Street, Ada, OH 45810 or to Cokesbury, NJ United Methodist Church, 230 Cokesbury Road, Lebanon, NJ 08833. 

 

 

Mary Elizabeth 'Bettie' Banghart

Mary Elizabeth ‘Bettie’ Banghart, age 89, of Franklin Twp., NJ passed away peacefully in her sleep on Saturday, March 24, 2018 at the Abington Manor in Easton, PA.

She was born on April 15, 1928 in Easton, PA.  She spent most of her life in Franklin Twp., NJ, moving from Easton, PA where she spent her childhood.

She was the daughter of the late Albert E. Hunt Sr. and Mary Bassett Hunt.

Bettie was a retired Court Aide for the Warren County Superior Court in Belvidere, NJ.

Memberships include Warren Grange 110, the Red Hat Society, Order of the Eastern Star Stewart Chapter #166 and First Lutheran Church of Stewartsville. 

Bettie enjoyed knitting, crocheting and sewing.  She loved to make things for her family and friends and also enjoyed donating hats that she would make for cancer patients.  She had a wonderful sense of humor and had a quick wit about her.  Bettie had a wonderful memory for special occasions – she always remembering everyone’s birthday and anniversary. 

Bettie was a loving mother and grandmother.  She will be dearly missed by her family and friends.

Survivors include her five children; Joseph Banghart Jr. of Washington, NJ, Gary Banghart and his wife Lynn of Bangor, PA, Diane Bevaqua and her husband Arthur of Bakersfield, CA, George Banghart and his wife Susan of Asbury, NJ and Susan Demo of Netcong, NJ.  14 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren. 

Predeceased by her brother; Albert ‘Bill’ Hunt and his wife Francis who both passed away on August 3, 2017.  She is also predeceased by her ex-husband; Joseph Banghart who passed away on January 25, 2010.

Graveside service will take place on Wednesday, March 28, 2018 at 11am at Stewartsville Lutheran Cemetery in Stewartsville, NJ.  Arrangements by Scarponi-Bright Funeral Home in Lebanon, NJ.

Memorials can be made to the Franklin Twp. Rescue Squad, 25 Asbury Broadway Road, Broadway, NJ 08808.

 

 

Sanford 'Sandy' H. Glassman

Sanford "Sandy" H. Glassman, age 95, of Clinton Twp., NJ passed away on Saturday, March 24, 2018 at the Hunterdon Medical Center in Raritan Twp., NJ.

He was born on March 12, 1923 in Manhattan, NY. While he spent his first 30 years in the New York City area, he moved to NJ in the 1950's and had resided in Hunterdon County since 1977.

He was the son of the late Irving and Dorothy (Macknitsky) Glassman.

Sandy was the husband of Karolee A. Dousa Glassman, celebrating 48 years of marriage.

He was a World War II Army Veteran, serving in France and Germany from 1943 to 1946. During his service he was awarded the EAME Campaign Medal, Good Conduct Medal and World War II Victory Medal.

He received his Bachelor's Degree in Electrical Engineering from City College of New York in 1949 and his Master's Degree in Electrical Engineering from The Polytechnic Institute of Brooklyn in 1951. He was a member of the Eta Kappa Nu and Tau Beta Pi Fraternities. He worked as an Electrical Engineer and in 1977 created Glassman High Voltage which is now located in High Bridge, NJ. Recently, he celebrated his company’s 40th year Anniversary. He was always proud of the fact that more than a third of the employees had been with him and the company for over 20 years.

During his lifetime, Sandy enjoyed ballroom dancing, volleyball, and racquetball. He loved playing bridge and the piano and in his later years, spent his spare time solving expert Sudoku puzzles. He continued to be involved with his company and work family every day until the age of 94. Above all, Sandy loved being with his family.

Survivors, in addition to his loving wife, include: one son, Robert A. Glassman and his wife Suzanne of Basking Ridge, NJ; three daughters, Laurie J. Glassman and her wife Carla of Jamaica Plain, MA, Kariann L. Marshall and her husband Eric of Lebanon, NJ and Jill M. Guzman and her husband Alex of Palm Harbor, FL; seven grandchildren, Christopher Sanford Marshall, Heather Marshall, Matthew Glassman and his wife Jamie, Ian Glassman, Olivia Glassman, Sofia Silverglass and Nickolas Glassman; and one great-granddaughter, Mia Glassman. He is also survived by his beloved dogs, Jasmine and Theo and predeceased by one brother, Martin Glassman.

Calling hours will take place on Tuesday, March 27, 2018 from 3-5pm and 7-9pm and on Wednesday, March 28, 2018 from 3-5pm and 7-9pm. Funeral Service will be Thursday, March 29, 2018 at 10am. All at Scarponi-Bright Funeral Home, 26 Main Street, Lebanon, NJ 08833. Interment at Hollywood Memorial Park & Mausoleum in Union, NJ.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the RVCC Foundation, Sanford & Karolee Glassman Scholarship, PO Box 3300, Somerville, NJ 08876. 

 

 

LeRoy Norman 'Ace' Brong

LeRoy Norman ‘Ace’ Brong, age 82, long-time resident of High Bridge, NJ passed away on March 14, 2018 at Warren Haven Rehabilitation & Nursing Center in Oxford, NJ. 

He was born on January 14, 1936 in Stroud Twp., PA.  He lived the majority of his life in High Bridge, NJ before moving to The Chelsea at Brookfield in Belvidere, NJ and Warren Haven Nursing Home in Oxford, NJ.

He was the son of the late Stanley and Elizabeth Bryson Brong.

His wife, Joan L. Ziegler Brong passed away in 2002. 

LeRoy was a 1955 graduate of High Bridge High School.

After his High School graduation, LeRoy was drafted in the US Army.  He was a Corporal in the Army until he was honorably discharged in 1965. 

LeRoy was a Grounds Maintenance Supervisor for the NJ Water Supply Authority for 31 years until his retirement in 2002.  He was also President of the Water Supply Union.

LeRoy was a Past Chief of the High Bridge Fire Department, serving as Chief from 1974-1975 and also a member of the NJ Exempt Firemen’s Association.  The Fire Department was his true passion in life.

LeRoy loved trains ever since he was a little boy.  As a child he would get on the train at the High Bridge station and go on adventures.  LeRoy loved living in High Bridge and he enjoyed going to the A&A Market every day after work. 

He was also an avid NY Yankees fan and NY Giants fan. 

Survivors include his two daughters; Kathleen J. Scalfaro and her husband Anthony of Phillipsburg, NJ and Elizabeth A. Plutar and her husband Brent of High Bridge, NJ .  One granddaughter; Caitlin Plutar.  Two step-grandchildren; Kelsey Anne Scalfaro and Thomas A. Scalfaro.  Two sisters; Eleanor Mowrey of Phillipsburg, NJ and Carol Edmonds of Glen Gardner, NJ.  One brother;  Donald Brong of Rosemont, NJ.  One niece; Jamie Edmonds of Glen Gardner, NJ. 

Predeceased by one nephew; Jeremy Ryan Edmonds. 

Calling hours will be Sunday, March 18, 2018 from 2-4pm and 7-9pm. Funeral Service will take place on Monday, March 19, 2018 at 11am.  All at Naughright-Scarponi Funeral Home, 66 Main Street, High Bridge, NJ.  Interment at Mountain View Cemetery in Cokesbury, NJ. 

Memorials can be made to High Bridge Fire Department, PO Box 232, High Bridge, NJ 08829 or to the Hunterdon Regional Cancer Center, 2100 Wescott Drive, Flemington, NJ 08822. 

 

 

Linda S. Hudecek

Linda S. Hudecek, age 59, of Harmony Twp., NJ passed away on Wednesday, March 14, 2018 at Warren Haven Rehabilitation & Nursing Center in Oxford, NJ.

She was born on December 30, 1958 in Landstuhl, Germany.  She moved to the United States where she lived in South Carolina briefly until her family settled to Hunterdon County, NJ. 

She was the daughter of the late Richard John and Dorothy Gratt Hartsell.

She was a graduate of North Hunterdon Regional High School in Annandale, NJ. 

Linda worked as a School Bus Driver in Bethlehem Twp., NJ for the majority of her career where she especially loved the kids she drove. 

Linda enjoyed reading, going to the beach and crocheting.  She also loved gardening and flowers.  She also loved her beloved cat, Ruby. 

Survivors include one son; Robert M. Hudecek and his girlfriend Gina Cerino of Wind Gap, PA.  One daughter; Suzanne L. Hudecek and her husband Ulises Sanchez of Plainfield, NJ.  Two brothers; Earl Hartsell of Jim Thorpe, PA and Richard Hartsell and his friend and business partner Richard ‘Buddy’ Waterman of Alpha, NJ.  Two sisters; Kathleen Bowlby and her fiancé Jeff Warren of Allentown, PA and Elizabeth Tillou and her husband Butch of Jim Thorpe, PA. She is also survived by several nieces and nephews. 

Calling hours will be Monday, March 19, 2018 from 2pm to 4pm.  Funeral Service to follow at 4pm.  All at Scarponi-Bright Funeral Home, 26 Main Street, Lebanon, NJ 08833.  Interment will be private.

 

 

Patricia Ann Gardner

Patricia Ann Gardner, age 77, of Clinton Twp., NJ passed away on Wednesday, February 28, 2018 at Lehigh Valley Hospital in Allentown, PA. 

She was born on April 10, 1940 in Philadelphia, PA.  She spent her childhood in Mariemont, OH until she moved to Edison, NJ during her High School years.  She eventually moved to Lebanon Twp., NJ where she spent many years before moving to Clinton Twp., NJ four years ago.

She was the daughter of the late Alexander and Ethel Mae Morris McClelland. 

She was the wife of Ronald D. Gardner, celebrating 54 years of marriage.

Patricia was a 1962 graduate of Trenton State College where she received her Bachelor’s Degree.

For many years Patricia was an Elementary School Teacher at Holmes Marshall School in Piscataway, NJ.  Once her children were born, Patricia spent time at home with her family.  She eventually went back to work for the Arc of Hunterdon where she worked for 18 years. 

Patricia has been an active member of the United Methodist Church in Washington, NJ for 49 years.  She enjoyed her involvement with the Church and enjoyed volunteering with them. 

Patricia was also very involved with Boy Scout Troop #92 in Lebanon Twp., NJ.  She volunteered with the Troop for over 40 years, beginning with her three son’s membership as young children.  She was especially instrumental in many scouts obtaining their Eagle Scout accomplishment.   In 1990, Patricia was recognized with the District Award of Merit and the Silver Beaver Award in scouting, the district’s highest award. 

She was also an avid reader and enjoyed arts and crafts.  She enjoyed traveling and was always very interested in the destination she was traveling to.  She was also interested in geography and was proud to have traveled to all 48 contiguous states. 

Most of all, Patricia loved spending time with her family and her grandchildren whom she loved and adored. 

Survivors in addition to her loving husband include; one daughter; Patricia Mielo and her husband John of Pittstown, NJ.  Three sons; Ron Gardner of White Twp., NJ, David Gardner and his wife Michele of Milford, NJ and Brian Gardner and his wife Elizabeth of Greenville, SC. Thirteen grandchildren; Ron Gardner Jr. and his wife Nadia, Jesse Gardner, Brenton Gardner, Ryan Gardner, Sarah Gardner, Meghan Gardner, Abigail Gardner, Emma Mielo, Chadwell Gardner, Camden Gardner, Isabella Gardner, Peter Mielo and Andrew Mielo.  She is also survived by one grandbaby-on-the-way.  One sister-in-law; JoAnn Yagodich.  Many nieces and nephews.

Predeceased by her three sisters; Carol Imbriale, Jane Roman and Ruth Davis.

Calling hours will be Friday, March 2, 2018 from 2-4pm and 7-9pm at Scarponi-Bright Funeral Home, 26 Main Street, Lebanon, NJ.  Memorial service will take place on Saturday, March 3, 2018 at 11am at The Washington United Methodist Church, 116 E. Washington Ave, Washington, NJ.  Interment will be private.

Memorials can be made in Patricia’s name to Boy Scout Troop #146, c/o Ron Gardner, PO Box 114, Oxford, NJ 07863.  Benefits will be split between Troop #92, where she was active for 40 years and also Troop# 146 where her Grandsons are currently scouts. 

To view Patricia's video tribute, please click here. 

 

 

 

Charles R. 'Chuck' Cornell

Charles R. ‘Chuck’ Cornell, age 69, of Lebanon Borough, NJ passed away on Monday, February 26, 2018 at the Hunterdon Care Center in Raritan Twp., NJ.

He was born on June 5, 1948 in Somerville, NJ.  He was a resident of Lebanon Borough since 1982, moving from Bound Brook, NJ. 

He was the son of the late Charles B. and Margaret Miller Cornell. 

He was the husband of Victoria E. Kinnaird Cornell, celebrating 37 years of marriage.

Chuck was a US Navy Veteran, serving in 1974.

Chuck worked for the Lyons VA Hospital in their transportation department until his retirement.

Memberships include the American Legion Post 12 in Somerville, NJ where he was very active in their Honor Guard and Color Guard.

Chuck loved football and was an avid Giants fan.

Survivors in addition to his loving wife include one daughter; Susan Elizabeth Cook and her husband Jeffery of Boise, ID and one son; Christopher Adam Cornell of Beaumont, TX.  Two granddaughters; Veronica Cook and Laura Cook, both of Boise, ID. 

Viewing will be Saturday, March 3, 2018 from 11am to 3pm at Scarponi-Bright Funeral Home, 26 Main Street, Lebanon, NJ.  Interment will be private.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent in Chuck’s name to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105. 

 

 

Janet Marie Petterson Dawe

Janet Marie Petterson Dawe, age 82, longtime resident of New York City, passed away peacefully at her home in High bridge, NJ on Monday, February 19, 2018.  

Janet was born to Charles and Lillian Hixon on September 12, 1935 in Milford, MA.  Janet and her two siblings, Lorraine and Charles II, spent their childhood in Hopedale, MA.  Their father, who worked for the Draper Corporation, passed away unexpectedly when Janet was five. Her mother never remarried and raised her three children on her own.  Growing up with little, Janet developed appreciation for family, resilience, determination and compassion for others.

Janet graduated from Hopedale High School and went on to earn her RN from Massachusetts General School of Nursing in Boston, where she met her first husband, Lew Petterson.  In 1960, they moved to New York City, which Janet called home for the next 55 years.  In the beginning, Janet worked briefly as a Nurse at Sloan Kettering and Lenox Hill Hospitals, before taking time off to raise her three daughters - Lisa, Julie and Kate. 

Once her children were in School, Janet started as a Nurse at Mt Sinai Hospital where she worked for 35 years.  She started in the Narcotics Rehab Center, and at the end of her career, she was a Discharge Planner in the Department of Social Work.  Juggling parenting and work, Janet managed to earn her Bachelor’s Degree by attending “night school” at Marymount Manhattan College.  She loved being a nurse and was passionate about her job.  When she retired in 2005, Janet’s co-workers described her as an “everyday hero”, known for her calm strength, kindness and caring.

In 1979, Janet attended her Hopedale High School reunion, where she re-met her former classmate, Thomas Dawe. The two fell in love, married and shared a deep commitment for 37 years.  Tom preceded Janet in death on May 23, 2017.

After retirement, Janet loved exploring New York City, enjoying nature, traveling to visit her beloved children and grandchildren in New Jersey, Colorado and California, and time spent with the Booth family in Canada and Litchfield, CT.  In 2013, Janet had a stroke, and she and Tom moved to New Jersey in 2014 to be closer to family.  Janet was a loving, humble, supportive grandmother, mother, wife and friend.  She will be greatly missed and forever live on in our hearts. 

Survivors include three daughters: Elisabeth Mary Petterson and her husband Alan Sanborn of Arcata, CA, Juliana Petterson McClain of Aspen, CO and Katharine Anne Petterson of High Bridge, NJ;  seven grandchildren: Liam Sanborn-Petterson, Aidan Sanborn-Petterson, Zachary McClain, Ian McClain, Nicholas Haik, Amanda Haik and Oliver Haik;  one brother: Charles Hixon of Rochester, NY and one sister: Lorraine Fafard of Hopedale, MA; many nieces and nephews; step-children: Peter Dawe, Teresa Dawe D’Apolito, Laura Dawe Wiley, and Joe Dawe.

All services will be private.  

Arrangements by Scarponi-Bright Funeral Home in Lebanon, NJ.

 

 

Nora A. Donohue

Nora A. Donohue, age 84, of Clinton, NJ, passed away on Saturday, February 17, 2018 at home.  She was born on September 5, 1933, in Brooklyn, NY.  Spending her childhood in Brooklyn, she married her husband of 58 years, William M. Donohue Sr. at her family parish of St. Matthews.  Her first years of marriage were spent in Brooklyn, before her and Bill moved as a family to Baldwin, Long Island and then Clinton, New Jersey.

She was the daughter of Patrick Berry of County Mayo, Ireland and Nora Berry (nee Sullivan) of County Galway, Ireland.

After a brief professional career in Manhattan and downtown Brooklyn, Nora dedicated her time to parenting.  Her five children, four grandchildren and great grandchild Dempsey were her pride and joy.  While her children were students at Clinton Public, Nora was the crossing guard at the intersection of Halstead and Center Street, at the Grandin Library.

Nora was an active parishioner at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in High Bridge, NJ, where she was a member of their Rosary Society.  Nora also was a member of the Ladies Ancient Order of Hibernians, where she actively participated in Irish Ceili dancing.

Survivors include two daughters Nora and husband Dr. David Krick of Nutley, NJ and Tara and husband Sean Palen Sr. of Ringoes, NJ;  one son, Billy Donohue Jr. of Allentown, PA, four grandchildren, including Jared Krick and his wife Kathryn Blaze of Westfield, NJ, Sean Palen Jr. of Arlington VA, Thomas Palen and Shannon Palen of Ringoes, one great-grandson, Dempsey Krick.  Nora is also survived by her two sisters, Mary Ellen Connelly and Theresa Clauberg and sister-in-law Mary Ellen Berry.  She will also be greatly missed by her many nieces and nephews.

Predeceased in addition to her husband are two sons, Joseph and Thomas P. Donohue, and two brothers John and Patrick Berry.

Calling hours will be Wednesday, February 21, 2018 from 1-4pm and 7-9pm at Scarponi-Bright Funeral Home, 26 Main Street, Lebanon, NJ.  Funeral Mass will be Thursday, February 22, 2018 at 10am at St. Joseph’s Church, 59 Main Street, High Bridge, NJ.  Interment at Long Island National Cemetery on Friday, February 23, 2018 at 12pm. 

In lieu of flowers donations can be made to Hunterdon Hospice at 2100 Wescott Drive Flemington, NJ 08822.  
To view Nora's video tribute, please click here.

 

 

Thomas M. Jurkowski

Thomas M. Jurkowski, age 71, of Clinton Twp., NJ passed away on Friday, February 16, 2018 at the Hunterdon Medical Center in Raritan Twp., NJ.

He was born on January 5, 1947 in Bound Brook, NJ.  He spent most of his life in Clinton Twp., NJ, moving from Bound Brook, NJ.

He was the son of Irene M. Boszczuk Jurkowski of Clinton Twp., NJ and the late Bernard A. Jurkowski.

He was the husband of Judy Waldo Jurkowski, celebrating 36 years of marriage.

Upon his graduation at North Hunterdon High School, Thomas served with the US Army.

Thomas was a retired Union Sheet Metal Worker working for Local #027.

Memberships include Immaculate Conception Church in Annandale, NJ and the Clinton Elks.

Survivors in addition to his loving wife and mother include three brothers; Stephen Jurkowski and his wife Patti Otani of Phillipsburg, NJ, Bernard Jurkowski and his wife Carol of Canton, PA and Edward Jurkowski of Easton, PA.  One brother-in-law; Bill Gall of Newtonville, NJ.  Ten nieces and nephews; Trevor Jurkowski, Bernie Jurkowski, Sheri Peterson, Kimberly Clark, Chrissy Izso, Brian Jurkowski, Michael Gall, David Gall, Jonathan Gall and Daniel Gall.  Thomas is also survived by his two step-daughters; Annette Pemberton and her husband Richard of Nazareth, PA and Lisa McNealy and her husband Mark of Lopatcong, NJ.  Four step-grandchildren; Bob Thorsen, Amber Thorsen, Richard Pemberton Jr. and Samantha Roarke. 

Predeceased in addition to his father by one sister; Helen Gall. 

Calling hours will take place on Thursday, February 22, 2018 from 2-4pm and 7-9pm at Scarponi-Bright Funeral Home, 26 Main Street, Lebanon, NJ.  Funeral Mass will be Friday, February 23, 2018 at 10am at Immaculate Conception Church, 316 Old Allerton Road, Annandale, NJ.  Interment at Washington Crossing National Cemetery in Newtown, PA.

 

 

Cindy L. Shand

Cindy L Shand 59 of Alexandria Twp. passed away Feb 2, 2018 at home.

Cindy was born September 1, 1958 in Raritan Twp. She was the daughter of Kenneth Burd and the late Dorothy Burke. She spent her childhood in High Bridge and attended North Hunterdon High School and was a resident of Hunterdon County.

Cindy enjoyed playing Bingo and going on day Trips. Cindy was an excellent cook and enjoyed preparing dishes for friends and family. She was active with the Senior Citizens in Union Twp. where she was able to attend day trips. Cindy was also part of the Holland Twp. Women's Club and enjoyed working the election poles where she had many friends. Cindy also volunteered her time at the Hunterdon county SPCA thrift shop in the past. Cindy was also a past member of the VVA (Vietnam Veterans of America) She was also part of the legislation with ABATE (American Bikers Aim to Educate) She was also a past member of Whitehouse rescue. 

Cindy is survived by her long-time companion Curtis Schick of Alexandria Twp. A daughter, Michelle (Riccio) Ziemba and her husband Chad of Quakertown, PA.  A son William C. Smith Jr. and his wife Kelly of Reigelsville, PA. Cindy is survived by 5 grandchildren, Tyler, Miya, Maya, Brooke, Isabella and a granddaughter on the way, Zara. She is also survived by 2 other biological daughters; Victoria Smith and Rachel Smith.

Cindy is also survived by her father Kenneth Burd and his wife Chrissy of Middlesex, NJ. Cindy is survived by her siblings, Robert Burd and his wife Heidi of FL.  James Burd and his wife Beverly of RI and Tracy Strawser and her husband John of Pittstown, NJ. 

Cindy also leaves behind numerous loving relatives and friends where she will be dearly missed. 

Calling hours will take place on Sunday, February 25, 2018 from 2-4pm at Scarponi-Bright Funeral Home, 26 Main Street, Lebanon, NJ.  Immediately following friends and family will be invited to gather at the High Bridge Rescue Squad building, 95 West Main Street, High Bridge, NJ. 

 

 

 

Jay Casper Apgar

Jay Casper Apgar, age 76, of Clinton Twp., NJ passed away on Wednesday, February 7, 2018 at home.

He was born on September 14, 1941 in Cokesbury, NJ and was a lifelong resident of Hunterdon County.

He was the son of Marjorie L. Ader Apgar of Country Arch Care Center in Pittstown, NJ and the late J. Preston Apgar.

For most of his career, Jay worked in the maintenance department at the Hunterdon Developmental Center in Clinton, NJ.

Jay was an avid fan of the Miami Dolphins and the New York Mets.  He also loved dogs and he enjoyed feeding the birds.

Survivors in addition to his mother include one sister; Beverly Lazier of Oxford, NJ and one brother; Gerald E. Apgar of La Porte, TX.   He is also survived by two nephews; Ken Lazier of Phillipsburg, NJ and Jeffrey Apgar of TX.  Several nieces and nephews. He is also survived by close family friend, Julio Oliveras. 

Predeceased in addition to his father by two nephews; Rick Lazier and John Lazier and one great-nephew; Christopher Juliano. 

Calling hours will be Saturday, February 17, 2018 from 10am to 12pm .  Funeral Service will follow at 12pm.  All at Scarponi-Bright Funeral Home, 26 Main Street, Lebanon, NJ.  Interment at Mountain View Cemetery in Cokesbury, NJ. 

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Cokesbury United Methodist Church, 230 Cokesbury Road, Lebanon, NJ 08833. 

 

 

Verna E. Hauck

 

Verna E. Hauck, age 91, of Belvidere, NJ passed away on Tuesday, February 6, 2018 at home.

She was born on September 23, 1926 in Annandale, NJ.  She was a lifelong resident of Hunterdon County.

She was the daughter of the late Charles Russell and Elsie May Dalrymple Maxwell.

Her husband, George Hauck, passed away in 1980.

Verna was a High Bridge High School graduate.

Verna worked for Exact Level & Tool in High Bridge, NJ as a Bookkeeper/Administrator for over 50 years. Later in her career, she worked as a Secretary for the Sheriffs of Hunterdon County in Flemington, NJ. 

Memberships include St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in High Bridge, NJ.  She was also a member of the Clinton Twp. Seniors Club where she was also past Treasurer, and also Union Twp. Seniors Club.

Verna greatly enjoyed sports, especially bowling.  She was on many bowling leagues over the years.  She also enjoyed NASCAR racing and stock car racing.  She was involved with Stock Car Racing at Flemington Speedway.  Verna and her husband owned their own stock car that they enjoyed racing at Flemington, Dorney Park, Middletown, NY, Nazareth, PA and Harmony, NJ.  

Survivors include three nephews; Bruce Hauck and his wife Dawn of Annandale, NJ, William Hauck of Clinton, NJ, and Jack Hauck and his wife Evelyn of Bangor, PA.  One niece; Theresa Andresen and her husband Albert of Oxford, NJ.  Two great nieces; Courtney Chipman and her husband Charlie of Annandale, NJ and Nicole Hauck of Annandale, NJ. 

Predeceased by one brother; Charles John Maxwell who passed away in 2011. One sister; Gloria M. Braun who passed away in 2017. 

Calling hour will be Saturday, February 10, 2018 from 8:30am to 9:30am at Scarponi-Bright Funeral Home, 26 Main Street, Lebanon, NJ.  Funeral Mass follow on Saturday at 10am at Immaculate Conception Church, 316 Old Allerton Road, Annandale, NJ.  Interment at St. Mary’s Cemetery in Clinton, NJ. 

Memorials can be made to The Hunterdon Medical Center Foundation, 2100 Wescott Drive, Flemington, NJ 08822. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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