From Thomas S. Lowther Funeral Home & Crematory
Jack Palmer, 78, Vero Beach
July 27, 1944 – November 18, 2022
Jack Palmer, 78, Died November 18, 2022 at his home in Vero Beach, Florida, after a short battle of liver cancer that he fought valiantly to the end.
He was born in Connersville, Florida on July 27, 1944 and moved from Bartow Florida in 1966 to pursue a profession with the state of Florida Agricultural Inspection Service. He later found his calling in working in the citrus industry. Jack managed many of the local packing houses in the area and was well known in the citrus community of Indian River County. He loved fishing and in his earlier years spent many weekends out on his boat with his wife, kids, and any friend that wanted to join in.
Jack was very involved with his family and played a very large role in the life of not only his children but grandchildren and great grandchildren. His real joy in life was surrounding himself with them and being a part of all of their special life moments. He also loved to travel with his loving wife and was blessed to see quite a few of his bucket list locations, including the Grand Canyon and most recently a cruise to Alaska.
He retired in 2007 after a 28-year career with Indian River Exchange Packers of Vero Beach, Florida, and after doing so would be found on any Saturday watching and supporting his beloved University of Florida Gators!
He was a member of Westside Baptist Church in Fort Pierce and found much comfort in worshiping the lord with his many fellow parishioners.
Survivors include: Wife, of 55 years Nancy Koontz Palmer, His daughter and son-in-law Nancy Palmer Masse and Shawn Masse from Glen St. Mary, Fl, His son David “Nathan” Palmer of Nantucket, Mass, Granddaughter and grandson-in-law Alexis Morales Owens and Steven Owens, Grandson and granddaughter-in-law Garrett Morales and Jesslyn Morales, Granddaughter Shawna Masse, Great grandchildren Abbie 13, Dylan 11, and Nathan 5. His sister and brother-in-law Betty and David Bailey of Mulberry, Fl; Brother-in-law and Sister-in-law Dr. Cedric Craig and Mrs. Katie Craig of Georgetown, Ky; and numerous nieces and nephews and the many people who were fortunate to know him as a friend.
He was predeceased by his father Ottis B. Palmer; his mother Lorraine V. Palmer; and his sister Sarah Heckman all of Bartow, Fl.
A gathering of family and friends will be held from 1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m., with a Celebration of Life starting at 2:00 p.m. Saturday, January 14, 2023, at Thomas S. Lowther Funeral Home & Crematory, Vero Beach, Fl.
Arrangements are by Thomas S. Lowther Funeral Home & Crematory, Vero Beach.
From Thomas S. Lowther Funeral Home & Crematory
Christine Brown, 69, Vero Beach
November 28, 1952 – November 20, 2022
Christine Brown passed away at her beloved home on November 20th, 2022 surrounded by her loving family. She was just eight days shy of her 70th birthday. Chris was born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania but her parents moved their growing family to Levittown, PA when she was one year old. Chris enjoyed school and excelled in the classroom. She loved reading! She loved music too, and often sang the cherished songs from her childhood. Classic country was her favorite genre. She was assertive and confidently lived life on her own terms. She was a leader and in high school she joined the Civil Air Patrol, the official auxiliary of the U S Air Force. She always took her responsibilities seriously but you always sensed her carefree spirit and tremendous sense of humor. In 1983, Chris came home from work and announced that she had just met the man she was going to marry. Proof that there really is such a thing as love at first sight. For thirty nine years, she and Walt were inseparable. They were lovers, best friends, confidantes, and captain and co captains on the rivers, seas, and in life.
Chris was the most generous person! She gave to family and strangers alike. Once, when she learned the two little girls that her sister was mentoring had to sleep on the floor of their home in the impoverished Kensington neighborhood of Philadelphia, she and Walt drove from Vero with complete bedroom sets for them and their little brother. That was twelve years ago and those children, now young adults, still remember her generosity. And isn’t that the greatest measure of success? To be remembered by a child for your kindness. Speaking of success, when Chris and Walt moved to Vero over thirty years ago, she decided to open a business. She loved Consignment Gallery! It was her passion. Chris loved her employees and customers alike. And today, now owned by sisters Barb and Pat, it is still one of the most popular and successful shops in Vero.
Chris loved Vero Beach often referring to it as “Paradise”. She actually made her sister Esther promise to thank the Vero Beach community after her passing for the wonderful life she had here.
Christine was predeceased by her parents Andrew and Elizabeth Rulo and daughter Mary Lynn Brown. In addition to her beloved husband Walt, Chris is survived by her son Andrew (Sara) and granddaughter Sophia, son Carl (Michele), daughter Kathryn Verna (Steve) and adoring grandchildren Stevie, Colin, Elizabeth, Mary-Lynn, Tyler, and Mark. She will also be deeply missed by her great grand daughter Ivy.
Chris is also survived by her best friends who also happen to be her grateful sisters, Esther Rulo (Terri), Patricia Rulo, and Barbara Rulo (Jeff) and her loving grand niece Melanie Catanese (Sal).
The family wishes to thank Doctor Hurlburt and the nurses, and nurses aides on the fourth floor of Cleveland Clinic Indian River Hospital for their exceptional care of Christine.
The family would also like to thank VNA Hospice for their compassionate assistance in helping Christine’s devoted sisters care for her at home.
Services will be private. Donations to VNA Hospice (vnatc.org) or the Parkinson’s Foundation (parkinson.org) would best honor the memory of this generous, courageous, and remarkable woman.
“Many a funeral among men is a wedding feast among the angels.”
Arrangements are by Thomas S. Lowther Funeral Home & Crematory, Vero Beach.
From Thomas S. Lowther Funeral Home & Crematory
Helenito Bessa, 69
May 06, 1953 – November 21, 2022
Helenito Bessa, age 69, passed away November 21, 2022 at Cleveland Clinic Indian River Hospital.
He was born in Minas Gerais, Brazil to the late Geraldo Calderia and Ana Bessa.
Helenito was known for his craftsmanship and was a loyal and faithful member of Sebastian River Baptist Church in Sebastian, Florida.
Survivors include his beloved wife of 50 years, Sonia Alves; three daughters, Fabiane, Fernanda, and Vanessa; son, Fabio; eight grandchildren, and six great-grandchildren; all of whom he loved very much.
In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his siblings, Dirce, Valmir, Maria Elena, and Bessa.
A Visitation will be held 1:30 p.m.–2:30 p.m., Saturday, November 26, 2022 at Thomas S. Lowther Funeral Home & Crematory, Vero Beach.
A Funeral Service will follow at 2:30 p.m., Saturday, November 26, 2022 at Thomas S. Lowther Funeral Home & Crematory, Vero Beach with Pastor Bill Ruehman officiating.
In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the Bessa family.
Arrangements are by Thomas S. Lowther Funeral Home and Crematory, Vero Beach.
From Thomas S. Lowther Funeral Home & Crematory
Nadine Greene, 90, Vero Beach
December 30, 1931 – November 23, 2022
Nadine Greene, age 90, passed away November 23, 2022 at VNA Hospice House.
She was born December 30, 1931 in Burnside, Kentucky to the late Chester and Edith McDaniel.
Nadine retired as a Banking Attendant, in 1975, from Citrus Bank, Vero Beach. She was a graduate of Vero Beach High School, class of 1949 and a member of First United Methodist Church of Vero Beach.
Survivors include one son, Phillip (Kim) Greene of Wilmington, NC; one daughter, Tanya Greene of Vero Beach, FL; and many loving nieces and nephews.
She was predeceased by her husband of 29 years, Carl K. Greene, Jr.; sister, Maxine (Bill) Reams; brother, C.A. Wallace, Jr.; and son-in-law, Joseph Brennan.
A Memorial Service will be held 9:00 a.m., Thursday, December 1, 2022 at Thomas S. Lowther Funeral Home & Crematory, Vero Beach.
Arrangements are by Thomas S. Lowther Funeral Home & Crematory.
From Thomas S. Lowther Funeral Home & Crematory
James “Jim” Stearns, 78, Vero Beach
July 16, 1944 – November 27, 2022
Jim Stearns, age 78, passed away November 27, 2022 at Renaissance Senior Living of Vero Beach.
He was born July 16, 1944 in Cape Girardeau, Missouri.
Jim proudly served in the military and was a United States Army Tennis Champion.
Arrangements are by Thomas S. Lowther Funeral Home & Crematory, Vero Beach.
From Thomas S. Lowther Funeral Home & Crematory
Carmen William Nicotra, 59, Vero Beach
March 06, 1963 – November 27, 2022
Carmen William Nicotra, age 59, passed away on November 27, 2022. He was born in Tampa, FL to Carmen Nicotra and Eva Moskal and later moved to Vero Beach, FL for the remainder of his life. Carmen graduated from Vero Beach High School in 1981 and completed his Associates Degree at Tampa Technical Institute. He loved gardening and watching Nascar and cheering on the Tampa Bay Buccaneers but most of all his love for his family ran deep. He loved time spent with his girls and all of his grandkids. He will truly be missed.
Carmen is survived by his beloved wife of 31 years, Debbie Nicotra and his two children April (Jay) Perez and Samantha (Joseph) June. His four grandchildren Camren, Talen, Bennett and Ella. His sisters Grace (Bradley) Raynor, Rosalie Busiglio and Maria Nicotra, along with several members of his extended family.
Carmen was preceded in death by his father, Carmen Nicotra, mother, Eva Nicotra, and brother, Vincent Nicotra.
Funeral Services will be held on Thursday, December 1, 2022 from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm 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 Thomas S. Lowther Funeral Home & Crematory
Ann K. Klim, 91, Vero Beach
May 11, 1931 – October 04, 2022
Ann K. Klim of Vero Beach, passed away on October 4, 2022 at the age of 91. She was born in Darien, CT and spent most of her life in Norwalk, CT. Ann and her husband retired to Vero Beach, FL in 1992.
Ann was a loving wife, a wonderful mother, and gentle and kind grandma.
Ann enjoyed spending time with family. Before a debilitating illness in her late 30’s that left her with limited walking and speaking ability, Ann enjoyed sewing, making pastries, decorating Easter eggs and arranging and hosting large family gatherings.
Ann was a woman of great patience, kindness, and love. She taught us all how to be patient and joyful even as she fought through her health condition. Ann loved to laugh and smile. One of her life’s mottos was, “I can cry or I can laugh; I’d rather laugh.” Ann and Ed had a devoted marriage of 63 years and referred to each other as “two peas in a pod.” Their marriage was the ultimate example of love and commitment.
Ann is survived by daughter Donna Marshall (Todd), son Kevin Klim (Stacey), and 6 grandchildren: Aubrey Halterman (Tyler), Joseph Callahan (Kathryn), Jackson Klim, Sylvia Klim, Adava Faber (Ethan) and Joshua Marshall.
Ann was predeceased by her loving and devoted husband Edward G. Klim, sisters Irene Kyllingstad, Jolanda Siladi, and brothers Stephen and Joseph Kertesz.
There will be a small gathering of family and friends for a Celebration of Life/Memorial at the Dixon’s residence at noon on Saturday, December 10, 2022.
Interment will be at St. John’s Cemetery, Norwalk, CT at a date yet to be determined.
Arrangements are by Thomas S. Lowther Funeral Home & Crematory, Vero Beach.
From Thomas S. Lowther Funeral Home & Crematory
Anil Kumar Mukherji, 89
July 06, 1934 – November 25, 2022
With heavy hearts, we announce the loss of Anil Kumar Mukherji. He passed away peacefully at the age of 89 in Vero Beach, FL on November 25, 2022, surrounded by loved ones. Born in Gwalior, India just south of Agra to Basant and Bokul Mukherji, Anil was a standout student and ultimately earned his PhD and Doctor of Science in Chemistry from Allahabad University in Allahabad, India. In his early twenties, he immigrated to the US in 1957 and joined Louisiana State University in New Orleans, Louisiana. Afterward, he became an Associate Professor of Chemistry at Drexel University in Philadelphia, PA before joining Xerox Corporation in Rochester, NY where he worked for 26 years until his retirement in 2000. Anil was an accomplished poet, a lover of Indian classical music, a gifted orator and linguist. He spoke five languages including Bengali, Hindi, Sanskrit, and Urdu. But his greatest joy was spending time with his family and friends. He held a special place in his heart for the close-knit Bengali community of Rochester, NY. He was a kind and gentle man and saw the goodness in everyone he met.
Anil is survived by his loving wife, Nina, of 59 years, his two daughters Monica Geercken (Karl) and Keya Garg (Rajnish); his brother Rajib (Debika) Mukerji and sister Deepa (Pradeep) Banerji; his brother in-laws Kalyan (Dorene) Sikdar and Amit (Carla) Sikdar. He adored his four grandchildren, Philip and Sean Geercken and Aviya and Rajan Garg, as well as his many nieces and nephews.
A private family service will be held in his memory on December 3, 2022, at Thomas S. Lowther Funeral Home & Crematory, Vero Beach, FL at 10:15 a.m.
If you wish to send flowers, The Flower Box Florist in Vero Beach (772-562-6576) is recommended.
The family would also be honored to have donations made to the VNA Hospice House, 901 37th St., Vero Beach, FL, 32963 in Anil’s name.
Arrangements are by Thomas S. Lowther Funeral Home & Crematory, Vero Beach.
She was born in Jellico, Tennessee to Jacquiline Smith and Ray Jones on July 8, 1943. She grew up around Williamsburg, Kentucky, living with her grandparents, Nellie and Tom Smith.
She enjoyed time with school, friends, family and cheerleading.
She married Ira Clarence King, Jr. on May 31, 1961 in Kentucky and they soon began their family. They then moved to Vero Beach, Florida in 1965 to continue to build their lives and family. They had four children: three daughters and one son.
Carolyn began her career in retail banking, enjoying more than thirty years. After retirement, she and Ira enjoyed traveling and cruising the world.
Survivors include her children, Teresa King Tackett, Sharon (Mike) Bragg, Monica Bartholomew and Ira Clarence (Stacy) King, III; grandchildren, Melissa Bragg (Nick) Casolina, Brandon Bragg, Dustin and Eric Tackett, Blane and Bryce Bartholomew, Cali MaKayla and Cadance King; great-grandchildren, Jaelyn and Keltie Casalina and Oakey and Daisy Bragg.
Arrangements are by Thomas S. Lowther Funeral Home & Crematory, Vero Beach.
From Thomas S. Lowther Funeral Home & Crematory
Michael David Smetzer, 69, Sebastian
March 31, 1953 – November 28, 2022
Michael David Smetzer, age 69, passed away November 28, 2022 in Rockledge, Florida.
He was born March 31, 1953 in Tulsa, Oklahoma to the late Ralph and Naldene Smetzer. He moved to Sebastian, Florida in 2017, coming from Huron, South Dakota.
Mike served in the United States Navy, for 20 years, and was honorably discharged on May 1, 1991 as an E6 and received the following awards and commendations during his service: Navy Achievement Medal, Navy Unit Commendation (2 awards), Good Conduct Medal (4 awards), Navy Expeditionary Medal (2 awards), Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, National Defense Service Medal (2 awards), SEA Service Deployment Ribbon (4 awards).
Mike enjoyed competition BBQ and traveled around after retirement to participate in many competitions. Mike always had a contagious smile and helped anyone who needed help. Mike would drive retired veterans to doctors appointments and helped neighbors who needed help.
Survivors include his nephew, Brian (Maddison) Smetzer of Rice, Texas; great-niece, Scarlett Smetzer of Rice, Texas; sister-in-law, Bonnie Smetzer of Sebastian, Florida; and his beloved cat, Samantha.
He was predeceased by his daughter, Christine Smetzer of St. Louis, Missouri and brother, Larry Smetzer of Sebastian, Florida.
A private family service is planned and in accordance with Mike’s wishes, his ashes will be scattered at sea.
Memorial contributions may be made to: For The Love of Paws, 12198 County Road 512, Fellsmere, Florida 32948.
Arrangements are by Thomas S. Lowther Funeral Home & Crematory, Vero Beach.
From Thomas S. Lowther Funeral Home & Crematory
Sharon Elizabeth Buckwold, 64
March 15, 1958 – November 27, 2022
Sharon Elizabeth Buckwold, age 64, passed away November 27th, 2022, and is now with our Lord and Savior.
She was born March 15, 1958, in Constableville, New York. She attended Plattsburgh University in Plattsburgh, New York.
Sharon worked at Calico Corners in Vero Beach as an Interior Designer for the past 15 years.
Survivors include her husband, Charles Buckwold; her two daughters, Ashley (husband, Corey) Richard and Elizabeth (husband, John) Ryman; son, Prescott (wife, Alexandra) Buckwold; her grandchildren; her brothers, Dale, Wayne and Randy Klosner; sisters, Marilyn Hata and Lisa Downham along with their families.
She was predeceased by her parents, James and Geraldine Klosner.
A Funeral Service will be held 10:00 a.m., Monday, December 5, 2022, at Thomas S. Lowther Funeral Home & Crematory.
A Graveside Service will immediately follow at Crestlawn Cemetery, Vero Beach.
Arrangements are by Thomas S. Lowther Funeral Home & Crematory, Vero Beach.