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In Memory: Feb. 21

From Thomas S. Lowther Funeral Home & Crematory

Charles Frederick Clippert II, 90

May 21, 1931 – February 12, 2022

Charles Frederick Clippert II, passed away peacefully on February 12th, 2022 in Vero Beach, Fl.

A funeral service will be held at the Trinity Episcopal Church (2365 Pine Ave, Vero Beach, FL 32960) in their Chapel on Tuesday, March 1st, 2022 at 10:00 AM.

Arrangements by Thomas S. Lowther Funeral Home and Crematory, Vero Beach.

From Thomas S. Lowther Funeral Home & Crematory

Kenneth “Ken” L. Davenport, 89, Vero Beach

January 10, 1933 – February 15, 2022

Kenneth “Ken” L. Davenport, 89, of Vero Beach, Florida passed away on February 15, 2022 in the care and comfort of VNA Hospice House, attended to by his “high school sweetheart” of 68 years of marriage, Joan.  He was born on January 10, 1933 to the late Catherine (née Cain) Davenport Nolte and Lewis H. Davenport and raised in Morris, Illinois.

Like so many children of his era, Ken was a hard-working young boy who helped support his mother and sister.  He was a standout athlete, lettering in varsity football and track during his 4 years at Morris Community High School.  Upon graduation in 1951, and shortly thereafter, he was drafted into the U.S. Army, achieving the rank of Corporal.  Before shipping out, he married Joan Louise Borens on June 6, 1953.  Upon their return to Morris from England with a newborn son in tow, they reared their two sons and became active members of the community.

Ken was an out-going and civic-minded businessman, serving as President of the Board of Morris Community High School, President of the Morris Country Club, and Vice President of the Illinois Automotive Trade Association.  He was a member in good standing of the American Legion Post 294, Fraternal Order of Eagles, and First United Methodist Church.  He somehow found time to referee high school football games as well as attend his sons’ football and basketball games and track meets, along with many epic fishing outings and card games.

Ken was an automobile dealer with Ford Motor Company until he and Joan moved to Vero Beach in 1983 where he was a manager at Velde Ford.  They enjoyed making wonderful new friends and, of course, played golf, tennis, and shared many a romantic dinner together.

Ken is survived by his wife Joan; his son Kenneth Gerald (Jayne) Davenport of Dallas, Texas; grandchildren Shawn (Michelle) Davenport and their children Ryan Christopher and Mary of Walworth, Wisconsin; Ryan (Colleen) Davenport and their children Miles, Grace, and Catherine of Vero Beach, Florida; Morgan Anne (née Davenport) Martinez and her children Mallory and Broden of Dallas, Texas; Joseph (Aubrey) Davenport and their children Atticus and Jude of Corbett, Oregon and Joseph’s son Rowan of Gallatin, Tennessee; Nathaniel of Portland, Oregon; and his brother Dennis “Denny” (Roberta) Davenport of North Aurora, Illinois.

He was preceded in death by his son Douglas Leo Davenport of Morris, Illinois, and his sister Jacqueline “Jackie” Matney, of Mazon, Illinois.

In honor of his memory, contributions may be made to the VNA & Hospice Foundation, 1110 35th Lane, Vero Beach, FL 32960 or www.vnatc.org.

Arrangements are by Thomas S. Lowther Funeral Home & Crematory, Vero Beach.

From Thomas S. Lowther Funeral Home & Crematory

Nancy Naomie Malone, 62, Vero Beach

May 01, 1959 – February 13, 2022

Nancy Naomie Malone, age 62, of Vero Beach, passed away on Sunday, February 13, 2022.

She was born in Ft. Pierce, Florida.

Nancy is survived by her husband, Dale Malone, and daughter, Rebecca Malone and her husband, Benjamin Kane.

The family will greet friends from 2 -3 p.m., with a Memorial Service to follow at 3 p.m., on Wednesday, March 16th, 2022, at Thomas S. Lowther Funeral Home & Crematory, Vero Beach.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to https://givesendgo.com/butterflies

Arrangements are by Thomas S. Lowther Funeral Home & Crematory, Vero Beach.

From Thomas S. Lowther Funeral Home & Crematory

Berta Mae Tucker, 79, Fort Pierce

December 19, 1942 – February 15, 2022

Berta Mae Tucker, age 79, of Fort Pierce, Florida, passed away Tuesday, February 15, 2022.

Berta was born December 19, 1942, in Ft. Pierce and was a lifetime resident.

She was a member of the Church of Christ.

Berta is survived by her brothers, Bert Charles Cayson, Jr. and Jackie Watson Cayson; her three sons, Will Tucker, Robert (Theresa) Tucker, and Wayne Tucker; six grandchildren, Dalton Tucker, Jessica Tucker, Danielle Tucker, Lana Tucker, Brandon Tucker, and Charlie Tucker; and seven great-grandchildren.

Berta was predeceased by her father, Bert Charles Cayson, Sr., her mother, Addie Mae Smith Cayson, her husband, William Eddie Tucker and her brother, Carl Eugene Cayson.

Memorial contributions in honor of Berta Mae Tucker, may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital at stjude.org

Arrangements by Thomas S. Lowther Funeral Home & Crematory, Vero Beach.

From Thomas S. Lowther Funeral Home & Crematory

Marie Wygonik Blanchard, 62, Vero Beach

May 06, 1959 – February 12, 2022

Marie Wygonik Blanchard, age 62, of Vero Beach, passed away on Saturday, February 12, 2022.

Arrangements by Thomas S. Lowther Funeral Home & Crematory, Vero Beach.

From Thomas S. Lowther Funeral Home & Crematory

Sandra J. Davis, 72

December 06, 1949February 17, 2022

It is with great sadness to announce the passing of Sandra J. Davis.

Arrangements by Thomas S. Lowther Funeral Home & Crematory, Vero Beach.

From Thomas S. Lowther Funeral Home & Crematory

Richard Walter Barrett, 90, Vero Beach

January 30, 1932 – February 15, 2022

Richard Walter Barrett, age 90, passed away February 15, 2022 at The Brennity of Vero Beach.

A Prayer Service will be held 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, February 26, 2022 at Thomas S. Lowther Funeral Home & Crematory, 1655 27th Street, Vero Beach, FL 32960.

Arrangements are by Thomas S. Lowther Funeral Home & Crematory, Vero Beach.

From Strunk Funeral Homes & Crematory

Linda Glock Rodriguez, 77, Sebastian

October 4, 1944 – February 16, 2022

Linda Glock Rodriguez passed away February 16, 2022. She was born October 4, 1944. She was born and raised in South River, New Jersey and graduated from South River High School. Linda resided in Sebastian, Florida with her husband of 45 years, Joseph Rodriguez, Linda was predeceased by her parents Elaine and Charles Glock and sister-in-law, Nancy Toomer. She is survived by her husband, Joseph, her sister, Susan Ragucci, brother-in-law, Charles Ragucci, two nieces, Victoria Ragucci, Kimberly Bruss and two grand nephews, Jaemin and Samuel Bruss and three sister-in-law’s, Jennie Kroger, Catherine Morris and Norma Zappaterra.

Linda was an avid reader and enjoyed mysteries. She enjoyed the pool at their home and visits with friends. She was a huge Rod Stewart fan and one of her most cherished possessions was a signed soccer ball he threw to her at a concert. Linda will be greatly missed by her family and friends.

At the request of the family, services will be private.

Arrangements are entrusted to Strunk Funeral Homes & Crematory, 1623 North Central Avenue, Sebastian, Florida 32958.

The family would love for you to share your prayers, condolences and memories of Linda by signing a guest book available at www.strunkfuneralhome.com

To plant Memorial Trees in memory of LINDA GLOCK RODRIGUEZ, please click here to visit our Sympathy Store.

From Strunk Funeral Homes & Crematory

Leo J. Hebert, 87, Vero Beach

April 25, 1934 – February 16, 2022

Leo J. Hebert, 87, beloved husband of the late Elizabeth (Bette) Care Hebert passed away on February 16, 2022 in Vero Beach, FL.

Leo was the son of the late William Hebert and Evonne Bouchard Hebert.  He was born on April 25, 1934 in Schuylerville, New York.  He graduated from the Schuylerville Central School in 1952 and from the Albany Business College in 1954.

Leo was employed for 16 years in the business office of the former Interstate Plumbing & Heating Supply Co., Inc. on Broadway in Albany, New York.  He then became employed by the New York State Department of Taxation and Finance.  At the time of his retirement, he was working in the Income Tax Bureau as a Tax Technician. He retired in June of 1995 after 25 years of State service.

In August of 1995, Leo and his wife moved to Vero Beach, Florida.

Leo enjoyed working around the house, taking long walks, doing crossword puzzles and reading.

Besides his wife and parents, he is predeceased by a brother, Joseph and sisters, Matilda (Tillie) DiNovo and Theresa Stevens.

He is survived by son, Martin Hebert; grandson, Zachary Hebert and granddaughter, Jozlyn Hebert all of Catskill, New York and great grandchildren, Nathaniel and Violet Hebert.  He is also survived by several nieces and nephews.

Friends may pay their respects on Wednesday, February 23, 2022 from 4-6pm at Strunk Funeral Home at 916 17th Street, Vero Beach, FL.  A Funeral Mass will take place at 10am on Thursday, February 24, 2022 at St. John of the Cross Catholic Church.

Mr. Hebert will be transported to Lasak & Gigliotti Funeral Home, 208 North Allen Street, Albany, NY for another Funeral Mass at The Church of the Blessed Sacrament, 607 Central Avenue, Albany, NY.

Interment at Our Lady of Angels Cemetery, Albany, NY.

To plant Memorial Trees in memory of LEO J. HERBERT, please click here to visit our Sympathy Store.

From Strunk Funeral Homes & Crematory

Catherine Maher, 81

June 12, 1940 – February 16, 2022

Catherine Maher (AKA Theresa, Terry, Nana, and beloved “Auntie T”) passed away at the age of 81 in Sebastian River Medical Center on February 16, 2022, surrounded by her family and loved ones eight weeks after being diagnosed with a rare form of aggressive cancer.

Catherine Theresa Philomena Gibbons Maher was born on June 12, 1940, in Clonkela, Ballycrissane, County Galway, Ireland before emigrating to the United States.  Shortly after arriving in the US, Theresa met and married Stephen J. Maher, her husband of 55 years. Theresa is survived by Steve Maher, their three children and their spouses: Shannon & Christopher Mashburn, Stephen Maher, John and Paula Maher, and her treasured grandchildren Luke and Lily Maher.  Theresa is also survived by her loving siblings including Mary & Richard Wagner, Sean & Rose Gibbons, Oliver Gibbons, Angela Pender, Carmel & Bill Kelly, and is predeceased by her brother Joseph Gibbons. Other beloved family and friends include Joan Maloney and the Maloney family,  Mary & Brian Egan and family, and Theresa Golden and family.

Theresa and Steve lived on Long Island, NY for 35 years where they hosted many visitors who have wonderful memories of times spent in Syosset, New York.  Theresa spent 20 years working for American Airlines and taking full advantage of the travel benefits to frequently fly “home” to Ireland and continued her love of travel after retirement, most recently exploring Vietnam, Belize, and Puerto Rico.  Theresa spent the second half of her career in banking, before starting her own business as a rental property owner in Florida.

Theresa will be remembered for her kindness to everyone, and especially for her warm welcome to those coming to visit her (always freshly painted!) home.  Theresa was known not just for her interior decorating skills but was famous for being selfless and giving generously of her time and her love.  Theresa lived for her family and friends, and her life truly exemplifies the saying; “The bond that links your true family is not one of only blood, but of the love, respect and joy in each other’s’ lives.” (Richard Bach)

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to support the Franciscan Missions at www.franciscanmissions.org or the Visiting Nurse Association of Florida at VNA Visiting Nurse Association | Home Care & Hospice (vnatc.com)

The family will receive friends Monday starting at 4:00 p.m. at Strunk Funeral Home’ Sebastian Chapel followed by a prayer service at 6:00 p.m.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Tuesday, February 22nd, 10:00 a.m. at St. Sebastian Catholic Church, Sebastian, FL with Father John Morrissey, celebrant.

Arrangements are entrusted to Strunk Funeral Homes & Crematory, 1623 North Central Avenue, Sebastian, Florida 32958.

As We Look Back

As we look back over your time with us,
we find ourselves sincerely hoping
that we remembered to thank you enough
for all that you have done for us.
Did we thank you for the times you were by our sides
to help and support us,
to celebrate our successes, and
to listen with such care to our troubles and problems;
to help lift us up so we could accept our defeats?
Or for teaching us by your example
the value of hard work, kindness to others, good judgement,
courage and integrity.
We wonder if we ever thanked you enough
for the sacrifices you made
to make sure the rest of us had the very best?
Most importantly, did we thank you for the simple things you gave so freely
like the laughter, smiles and good times we shared?
If we have forgotten to show our
gratitude enough for these things you did for us,
please know that we are thanking you now
and we are hoping you knew all along,
how very much you meant to us…

…and how very much you will be missed.

To plant Memorial Trees in memory of CATHERINE T. MAHER, please click here to visit our Sympathy Store.

From Strunk Funeral Homes & Crematory

Clara Venneman Fritz, 77, Sebastian

June 04, 1944 – February 16, 2022

Mrs. Clara Venneman Fritz, 77, returned to her heavenly home on February 16, 2022, after a valiant and courage’s battle with a long illness. Her devotion to her family and her firm belief in God supported her in her struggle and ultimately gave her peace.

She was born in Chicago, Illinois and moved to Sebastian, Florida to enjoy sunny days and a wonderful retirement with her husband, Carl.

Clara began her employment with Southern Bell Telephone as a secretary, she enjoyed many years with the phone company even through the company’s transition to Bellsouth and AT& T telephone. Clara was kind and soft-spoken, and always had time to answer a question or solve a problem, no matter how small.

She was a member of St. Sebastian Catholic Church, Sebastian, FL.

Survivors include her loving husband of 42 years, Carl John Fritz of Sebastian, FL; daughters, Cheryl Lynn Varney and Kimberly Rene Varney and stepdaughter Lisa Dunker. She is dearly missed by her loved ones, who celebrate the fact that she is at peace with her creator.

Clara was preceded in death by her daughter, Laura Ann Varney.

Memorial contributions can be made to the charity of one’s choice in loving memory of Clara Fritz.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held 10:00 AM on Monday, February 28, 2022, at St. Sebastian Catholic Church, with Father Richard “Dick” Sparks, celebrant. A committal service will immediately follow the Mass at Sebastian Cemetery, Sebastian, Florida.

The family would love for you to share your prayers, condolences and memories of Clara by signing a guest book available at www.strunkfuneralhome.com

Arrangements are entrusted to Strunk Funeral Homes & Crematory, Sebastian, Florida.

To plant Memorial Trees in memory of CLARA VENNEMAN FRITZ, please click here to visit our Sympathy Store.

From Cox-Gifford Seawinds Funeral Home & Crematory

Francis “Frank” Dominick Egidio, 79, Fort Pierce

September 09, 1942 – February 16, 2022

Francis “Frank” Dominick Egidio, 79, of Fort Pierce died Wednesday, February 16, 2022 with his family by his side.

He was born to the late Anthony and Mary (Ritza) Egidio in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania. Frank graduated from G.A.R. High School in 1960, and received his BA in Education from the University of Mansfield in 1964 on a football scholarship (but baseball was the love of his life).
Frank’s career began in education as a teacher and school support officer. He went on to work as a purchasing agent with Schwab Electric. However, Frank owned and operated several successful small business most of his life. For over 30 years, Frank was a partner in Pen Mart Convenience Stores, from which he retired in 2005. He achieved his dream of retiring to Florida shortly thereafter with his wife, Jean, and dog, Ruby, where he surrounded himself with many loving friends.
Frank was past President of the Wilkes-Barre chapter of UNICO International and played in the UNICO All Star football game as a high school senior. In 2008, he was inducted into the Luzerne County Sports Hall of Fame with various accolades including playing semi-professional baseball for eight years, coaching high school football, and starting the Crestwood High School football program. Frank served as Vice President on his community’s Board of Directors, and was an active member of the Knights of Columbus and McConnell golf league. He also enjoyed dancing, helping others, and most of all, spending time with his family.
Frank was preceded in death by his late wife, Patricia (Brady) Egidio and sister Anne Schwab. Frank is survived by his wife Jean (Murphy) Egidio, sons Dr. Anthony Egidio (Debbie) and Frank Egidio Jr. (Karen), daughter Michelle (Egidio) Oko, stepdaughter Megan Clark, stepson Kevin Clark (Bliss), and sister Rosemary Schwab. Frank also has eight grandchildren: Dominique Oko, George Oko, Anthony Egidio, Maria Egidio, Matthew Egidio, Joseph Egidio, Izabela Clark, and Charlotte Clark.
In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting that donations be made to Treasure Coast Hospice.

A funeral service will be held in Frank’s honor at Cox-Gifford Seawinds Funeral Home in Vero Beach on Monday, February 21, 2022 from 2-4pm.

Anyone wishing to send the family a message or share a story is asked to visit Frank’s memorial page at www.coxgiffordseawinds.com

To send a flower arrangement or to plant trees in memory of Francis Dominick Egidio, please click here to visit our Sympathy Store.

To plant Memorial Trees in memory of Francis Dominick Egidio, please click here to visit our Sympathy Store.

From Cox-Gifford Seawinds Funeral Home & Crematory

Virginia E. (Jenny) Deakyne, 88, Fort Pierce

April 15, 1933 – February 17, 2022

Virginia E.(Jenny) Deakyne age 88 of Fort Pierce, Florida formerly Washington C.H., Ohio, passed away Thursday, February 17, 2022 at Consulate Health Care of Vero Beach, Florida.

She had been in failing health for several months. She enjoyed attending Heritage Memorial Church until her health prohibited her from going. Virginia also enjoyed working word search books, crocheting, embroidery and anything that had to do with nature.
Virginia was born on April 15, 1933 in Ross County, Ohio, daughter of James and Ada (Morris) Posey.

She married Charles E. Deakyne on January 31, 1953, who preceded her in death in March of 2008.  She was also preceded in death by a sister, Betty J. Willett, a brother Clifford Posey and both parents.

She is survived by her daughter, Janet J. (Lonnie) Hunt of Fort Pierce, Florida, a granddaughter Amy (Andy) Williams and great grandchildren, Cain and Callie Sever of Washington C.H., Ohio. Also surviving, a sister Mary Petitt, brothers, Ben Posey, Don (Sharon) Posey and Joe (Marty) Posey and nieces and nephews.

Special thanks to Amy her granddaughter for her help during the years. Also to her physician, Dr. Mark Hodges, and special friends, Sue Anders and Jackie Craven.

And special thanks to St Catherine’s Manor of Washington C.H., Ohio and Consulate Health Care of Vero Beach, Florida.

To send a flower arrangement or to plant trees in memory of Virginia Ethel Deakyne, please click here to visit our Sympathy Store.

To plant Memorial Trees in memory of Virginia Ethel Deakyne, please click here to visit our Sympathy Store.

From Seawinds Funeral Home & Crematory

George Libbos, 96, Sebastian

January 07, 1926 – February 13, 2022

George Libbos, 96, from Sebastian, Florida, growing up in PA, fell asleep peacefully with the Lord on Sunday, February 13th.

A loving and wonderful (husband) father and grandfather that will surely be missed.

He was preceded in death in 2018 by the love of his life, Sophie. He was loved and dedicated to his children and would do anything for his family;
Michael (Jacqueline) Libbos and Christina (David) Picard. He loved his granddaughters, Marena (Libbos), Jeremy DeWitt, Emily (Picard), Greg Nardine, Melody (Picard), Regis Lane. Special love and hugs to his five great grandchildren; Jaxon and Maddox DeWitt, Delaney and Niko Nardine, and Brody Lane.

George lived a long and wonderful life. He was a decorated veteran of the Korean War and in World War II he was in the artillery outfit till 1946 when he was discharged. He was all over the world and had overseas duty from March 1945 to August 1946.

George and Sophie moved to Sebastian 37 years ago from Finleyville, PA. They were award winning ballroom dancers and loved it so much. (They actually met at a dance) They also loved going on cruises twice a year and enjoyed their granddaughters when they came to visit them every year.

The Lord has taken this wonderful, sweet, and kind man to be by his side and also took a small piece of our hearts with him. He will certainly be missed by his family, but will be dancing the night away with Sophie.

Love you and miss you, dad.

Visitation will be from 12 – 2 p.m., February 17th, at Seawinds Funeral Home on 753 S. Fleming Street in Sebastian.

Military service at Sebastian Cemetery at 3 p.m.

To send a flower arrangement or to plant trees in memory of George Libbos, please click here to visit our Sympathy Store.

From Seawinds Funeral Home & Crematory

Rhonda Cheerie Phillips Cummings, 69, Sebastian

July 14, 1952 – February 15, 2022

Rhonda Cheerie Phillips Cummings, 69, of Sebastian, Florida passed over at home on Tuesday, February 15, 2022 surrounded by love as she went to join our father in heaven.

Cheerie was born to John Richard (d. 1982) and Bonnie Stanfill (d. 2021) on July 14, 1952 in Jackson, Tennessee. Her family later settled in Florida where she attended and graduated from Martin County High School in 1970. After High School, Cheerie moved to Miami to attend Sheridan Williams Business College. After college, she started working in the cruise industry and found her sense of adventure in traveling.

Cheerie became pen pals with a classmate from high school who was serving in the Air Force during the same time she was working and traveling. Friendship turned to love and she married Charles David Cummings in 1974. They lived in North Palm Beach and decided to buy land in Sebastian, where they built their house and moved to Indian River County in 1978.

Cheerie then took on her most challenging role as mother when she gave birth to Heather Lea (b. 1979) during Hurricane David, and later to Charles Richard (b. 1982). Once Richie was old enough to attend school, Cheerie found her niche in banking and later worked at the Indian River County Courthouse until her retirement.

Cheerie was a Born Again Christian whose faith sustained her as she battled cancer multiple times to remission. She was a voice of faith to all who would listen.

Cheerie is survived by her husband, Charles David (b. 1950), her children; Heather Lea and Charles Richard, her siblings; Belinda Summers (Sebastian, FL), Greg Phillips (Jackson, TN), Shawn Phillips (Jackson, TN), and April Grogan (Seymour, TN). She is preceded in death by both her parents, John Richard (d. 1982) and Bonnie Stanfill (d. 2021).

A Celebration of Life will be held on Wednesday, February 23, 2022 at 11:00am at Seawinds Funeral Home in Sebastian, Florida. Visitation with family and friends will be 10-11.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to VNA Hospice of Treasure Coast. Donations may be at VNATC.org or by mail to:

1110 35th Lane

Vero Beach, FL

32960

Family and friends wishing to send messages or stories of remembrance are asked to visit Cheerie’s memorial page at www.seawindsfh.com/obits

To send a flower arrangement or to plant trees in memory of Cheerie Phillips Cummings, please click here to visit our Sympathy Store.

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