In Memory: June 14

From Cox-Gifford Seawinds Funeral Home & Crematory

Barbara Y. Lang, 86, Vero Beach

May 30, 1937 – June 1, 2023

Barbara Y. Lang died on June 1, 2023 in Vero Beach, FL. She was born in Cleveland, Ohio and was a graduate of Cleveland Heights High School and North Central College in Naperville, IL with a BA degree. She then began her teaching career that lasted for over 38 years. She retired to Naples, FL where she used her education experience  with the Education Team of Vanderbilt Presbyterian Church. After her move to Vero Beach, she again used her education experience in volunteering for First Presbyterian Church of Vero Beach.

She married her best friend and the love of her life David Wells Lang. Together, they celebrated 63 years.

She is preceded in death by her parents Carl and Dorothy Yucker as well as a brother, David Yucker.

Barbara is survived by her husband David; sons Robert (Patti) Lang and Jeffrey (Holly) Lang both of Vero Beach; grandchildren Ryan (Sarah), Daniel, Andrew, Jason and Nathan all of Vero Beach and by her great-grandchildren Grace, Joy, and Faith of Vero Beach.

A memorial service will be held on Friday, June 16, 2023 at 2:00PM at the First Presbyterian Church, 520 Royal Palm Boulevard, Vero Beach, FL 32960.

A Private interment will take place at Palm Royale in Naples, FL at a later date.

Contributions as a memorial may be made to The American Cancer Society or to The Music Department at First Presbyterian Church.

Arrangements are under the direction of Cox Gifford Seawinds Funeral Home, Vero Beach.

To send a flower arrangement or to plant trees in memory of Barbara Y. Lang, please click here to visit our Sympathy Store.
To plant Memorial Trees in memory of Barbara Y. Lang, please click here to visit our Sympathy Store.

From Cox-Gifford Seawinds Funeral Home & Crematory

Anita Grace Laconis, 94, Vero Beach

January 3, 1929 – June 2, 2023

Anita Grace Laconis, age 94, passed away in her sleep June 2, 2023, during a brief hospital stay.

Anita was born January 3, 1929, to Sabas and Margaret Boglio of Utica, Michigan. She is preceded in death by her beloved husband of 67 years, Vincent.

She is survived by her brothers, Art Boglio of Arizona, Sam Boglio (Pat) of Virginia, and Bill Boglio of Alabama,her children, Bill Laconis of Vero Beach, Bruce Laconis (Robin) of Orlando, Valerie Laconis McCurley (David) of Georgia, and Robert Laconis of Georgia, and grandchildren, Annelise Evans (Eric) of Georgia, Alyssa Waldroop (Chisholm) of Oklahoma, and Parker McCurley of Georgia, as well as great grandsons, Vincent and Samuel Evans of Georgia and many nieces, nephews and great nieces and nephews.

In 1950, Anita married Vincent A. Laconis, Jr. of Girardville, PA, whom she met at Wayne State University while both were pursuing a degree in pharmacy. She received her degree in 1951. Anita and Vince moved to Vero Beach in 1960. In 1965 they became charter members of Christ by the Sea UMC, and Anita was the church’s first pianist and organist.

Anita and Vince owned Holiday Square Motel on Ocean Drive for several years, and Anita kept her pharmacy license active working part time at a nursing home, while managing the motel and caring for their four young children, all while contributing to
the music program at their church.

After Anita and Vince retired, they enjoyed traveling in their motorhome across our great country, seeing the sights and visiting relatives. They also enjoyed wonderful summer motor home adventures with their 3 grandchildren.

Anita was a loving sister, wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and friend. Her quietly spoken witty remarks often left those whom she met smiling or chuckling.

She will be greatly missed.

A Memorial Service will be held at 10 AM on Wednesday, July 26, 2023 at Christ By The Sea United Methodist Church, 3755 Highway A1A, Vero Beach, FL 32963.

A Reception for family and friends will follow in the church hall.

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

To plant Memorial Trees in memory of Anita Grace Laconis, please click here to visit our Sympathy Store.

From Cox-Gifford Seawinds Funeral Home & Crematory

Margery Terese Coupe, 97, Vero Beach

October 15, 1925 – June 4, 2023

Margery Terese Coupe, 97, of Vero Beach, died June 4 with loved ones by her side. She was born to the late Frank and Margaret Hayes in Waukegan, Illinois. After attending Rosary College, she married the late Richard Coupe in 1946 and lived in New York, Virginia, and Florida during their 50 years together. While Margery worked in various educational positions, she is most remembered for her 36 years as the Administrative Assistant to the Director of College Counseling at Saint Edwards School, Vero Beach. Margery was also an active member of St. Helen Catholic Church where she was a Eucharistic Minister.

Margery is survived by her sister, Sister Rosemary Hayes, and was predeceased by her brothers, John, Francis, and William.  Her legacy includes her five daughters, Kathleen (Paul Shoop) Coupe of Queen Creek, AZ; Rosemary (Stefan) Bogdan of Lawrenceville, NJ; Christine (George) Kraus of Orlando, FL; Marguerite (Alan) Bowker of N. Attleboro, MA; and Patricia Ramsey of Winter Springs, FL. Her nine grandchildren and twelve great-grandchildren brought much joy to her life, along with her special friend, Terri Giles, and her devoted caretaker, Maria Ambrose.

A visitation will be held on Thursday, June 8th from 5-7 p.m. at Cox-Gifford Seawinds Funeral Home, Vero Beach. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 a.m. on Friday, June 9th at St. Helen Catholic Church with burial immediately following at Crestlawn Cemetery.

For those unable to attend in person, a life-stream of the funeral mass will be available by visiting the following link the day of the service: https://vimeo.com/event/3478274

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the VNA Hospice House, Vero Beach; Retired Sisters of the Holy Child, Rosemont, PA; Saint Edward’s School Scholarship Fund, Vero Beach, or your favorite charity.

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

To plant Memorial Trees in memory of Margery Terese Coupe, please click here to visit our Sympathy Store.

From Cox-Gifford Seawinds Funeral Home & Crematory

George Iver Perry Lodoen, 86, Vero Beach

September 2, 1936 – June 5, 2023

George Iver Perry Lodoen, age 86, peacefully passed away on Monday, June 5, 2023 at the VNA Hospice House, in Vero Beach, Florida.

Born on September 2, 1936, in San Antonio, Texas, he was the son of the late Major General George O. N. Lodoen and Ruth Elizabeth (Perry) Lodoen.

As a child, George lived in Panama and the Philippines where his father was stationed during his military service.  In 1955, He graduated high school from St. Andrew’s School in Middletown, Delaware.  George continued his education at Texas A&M University from 1955 – 1957, where he became a member of the ROTC.

George was Appointed as a Candidate at the United States Military Academy at West Point, and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in 1963.   While at Ft. Benning, Georgia, he completed Army Ranger Training in 1963, and Airborne Training in 1964.  During his military career, George served two tours in the Vietnam War where he was Headquarters and Company Commander of the first airborne regimen in Germany from 1964-1966.  He then held the same position at the U.S. 9th Division in the Republic of Vietnam.

In 1966, he completed Jumpmaster Training at the 8th Division Airborne School at the United States European Command (USAREUR), and after returning to Ft Benning in 1969, he completed the Infantry Officer’s Advance Course in the U.S. Army Infantry School.  From 1970-1975, he was Headquarters and Company Commander in the U.S. Army Europe.

Some of George’s Vietnam War experiences are featured in the book “Into Cambodia” by Keith Nolan.  George was a multiple Bronze Star Medal of Valor recipient and additionally earned the Commendation Medal, Air Medal, and Combat Infantryman Badge.

In 1974, George furthered his education and graduated from Boston University with a Master’s Degree in Education.   In 1978, He retired from the Army as a Captain, and began what would be many years of teaching high school mathematics.

Throughout the years, George was a part of many clubs and societies, including; the Cadet Parachute Club, the Pistol Club, the Ski Club, the Debate Council and Forum, the Rocket Society, the Ring and Crest Committee, and the Spanish Club.

George was a family man first and foremost and he loved his family with his whole heart.   His family and his military service were the two things he was most proud of.   He additionally held a passion for reading and traveling the world.  His favorite place to visit was Ecuador.

George is remembered by his family for his valor, bravery, strength, and resilience. He was always focused, determined on what he set his mind to, and above all, a true fighter.  He is also remembered for his incredible sense of humor, his ability to put a smile on everyone’s face, and his unmatched storytelling skills.  George had the natural leadership ability to inspire people in even the most difficult situations.

George is survived by his loving wife, Alicia Lodoen; his three children, Michelle Camacho, Andrew Lodoen, and Christina Lodoen; and his five grandchildren, Garrett, Grace, Davis, Kayla, and Samantha.  He will be additionally missed by his beloved German Shephard Grand-Puppy, Mila Lodoen.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10 a.m. on Wednesday, June 14, 2023, at St. Helen Catholic Church in Vero Beach, Florida.  Interment with Military Honors will follow at Cape Canaveral National Cemetery at 2:30 p.m.

Expressions of sympathy may be offered to the family at CoxGiffordSeawinds.com.

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

To plant Memorial Trees in memory of George Iver Perry Lodoen, please click here to visit our Sympathy Store.

Norton P. Field, Jr., 64, Vero Beach

April 9, 1959 – June 5, 2023

Norton P. Field, Jr, age 64, passed away on June 5, 2023, with his wife of 44 years, children, brother and mother-in-law by his side.

He was born on April 9, 1959, in Flushings, New York and grew up in Yalesville, Connecticut. In 1985 he and his wife, Mona, moved with their children to Vero Beach, Florida.

Survivors include his wife, Mona; daughter, Shannon Colkitt (Joey); son, Norton P. Field III (Crystal); daughter, Alison Pollack (Kenny); mother-in-law, Mary Valentin; brother, Richard Field (Sandra); sister, Cynthia Field; brother-in law, John Mickelson; 8 grandchildren, Hannah Gallagher (Trevor), Lanie Field, Riley Field, Aubrey Field, Karley Field, Morgan Maynard, Camden Pollack, Ava Pollack; 3 great grandchildren, Grant Gallagher, Ellis Gallagher, Willa Jenkins and one grandson on-the-way.

He is preceded in death by his father, Norton P. Field, Sr; mother, Joan Viele; and sister, Alison Mickelson.

He worked at Ocean Resorts in Fort Pierce, Florida for 25 years and Piper Aircraft in Vero Beach, Florida for 12 years. He was a member of Calvary Chapel, Sebastian, where he served on the security team. Norton loved his family so well and was a friend to all he met. He enjoyed tinkering on home and landscaping projects and cherished his time at their vacation home in Cleveland, Georgia.

A Celebration of Life service will be held at 6:00 PM on Tuesday, June 13, 2023, at Calvary Chapel located at 1251 Sebastian Blvd., Sebastian, Florida 32958.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to Moffitt Cancer Center’s pancreatic cancer research.

To send a flower arrangement or to plant trees in memory of Norton P. Field Jr., please click here to visit our Sympathy Store.

From Cox-Gifford Seawinds Funeral Home & Crematory

Bernita Fay Thomas, 83, Florida

December 14, 1939 – June 7, 2023

In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting you consider donating to Humane Society of Vero Beach.

How can you say goodbye to someone who you have known for over 40 years and from whom you have never ever heard utter an ugly word against anyone else?

How can you say goodbye to the person you’ve known as your mother-in-law who has always been generous to a fault?

How can you say goodbye to your mother-in-law who was always a constant support to everyone in the family?

How do you say goodbye to a native Texan who moved to Florida just to be near her kids and their families?

How do you say goodbye to one of the sweetest ladies you’ve known who was a fan of old timey singing cowboys?

You sing the song “Happy Trails” to her, that’s what you do.

Ms. Bernita F. Thomas passed away on June 7, 2023, after living almost 83 years as truly one of society’s best people. She raised two wonderful daughters, Lisa F. Paige and Lori K. Hart by herself at a time when that burden wasn’t so common. It was tough, of course, but she bore the life with no regrets and no complaints.

Both daughters went on to give her 2 grandchildren each and a total of 8 great grandchildren. She leaves this earth with a legacy of love, kindness and generosity. In the final analysis, that legacy is one which most people should strive to achieve. We will miss your smiling face and your quiet way of saying things.

HAPPY TRAILS TO YOU!
Happy trails to you, Until we meet again
Happy trails to you, Keep smiling until then
Who cares about the clouds when we’re together?
Just sing a song, and bring the sunny weather
Happy trails to you, ‘Til we meet again
Happy trails to you, Until we meet again
Happy trails to you, Keep smiling until then
Who cares about the clouds when we’re together?
Just sing a song, and bring the sunny weather
Happy trails to you, ‘Til we meet again
Who cares about the clouds when we're together?
Just sing a song, and bring the sunny weather
Happy trails to you,’Til we meet again
Written by: Sara Evans

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

To plant Memorial Trees in memory of Bernita Fay Thomas, please click here to visit our Sympathy Store.

From Cox-Gifford Seawinds Funeral Home & Crematory

Mary Jane (Fecher) Deis, 84, Vero Beach

January 25, 1939 – June 8, 2023

Mary Jane (Fecher) Deis, 84, of Vero Beach, died June 8, 2023, after a long illness.

Mary Jane, also known as Janie, was born to the late Sylvester and Pauline Fecher on January 25, 1939,

in Dayton, OH. She graduated from St Joseph’s Commercial High School. She was married to Frederick W Deis in 1959. They lived together for 61 years in Ohio, New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Texas before retiring to Vero Beach, Florida in 1999.

After graduation, she worked as an administrative assistant for the Dayton Daily News. Once her children began to arrive, she stayed home to raise her 7 children. Through the years, Jane volunteered her time at Our Lady of Sorrows elementary school (Vestal, NY), held various part-time jobs, and volunteered for the genealogy department at the public library (Vero Beach, FL).

Janie was known for her love of coffee, reading, crossword puzzles, and baking pies for her friends and family. Her favorite hobbies were quilting and crocheting. She exhibited great skill in her artistry providing unique gifts and custom designs for her kids and grandkids.

Jane was a member of St Helen’s Catholic Church. She and Fred loved to travel, enjoying the sites, and visiting family and friends.

Jane especially loved spending time with her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren. As the matriarch of a very large family, she always stood by the side of anyone who needed help or support, especially when a new baby arrived.

Preceded in death by her husband, Fred, and baby son, Joey, Jane is survived by her 7 children, Laura Murphy of Vero Beach, Mary Jo Leonard (Don) of Lexington, SC, Karen (Jory) Larnerd of Kirkwood, NY, David (Cindy) Deis of Spring, TX, Mark (Lori) Deis of Allentown, PA, Janet (Dave) Moga of Orinda, CA, and Matt (Toni) Deis of Westfield, NJ. She is also survived by her 19 grandchildren (and their spouses) and 12 great grandchildren (plus 2 more arriving soon).

Mass intentions were held at St. Helen’s Catholic Church, Vero Beach, FL. A celebration of life and inurnment will be scheduled at a later date and held in Dayton, OH.

In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting that donations be made to Adenoid Cystic Carcinoma Research Foundation (www.accrf.org/take-action/donate/) or VNA Hospice of Vero Beach (https://vnatc.org/ways-to-give/memorials-and-honorariums/)

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

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

To plant Memorial Trees in memory of Mary Jane Deis, please click here to visit our Sympathy Store.

 

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