From Strunk Funeral Homes & Crematory
Carole Kaplan, 88
February 26, 1935 – August 12, 2023
Carole Kaplan, 88, passed away August 12, 2023 in Vero Beach, FL. A full obituary is forthcoming.
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From Strunk Funeral Homes & Crematory
Sue Ann Falco, 80, Vero Beach
July 21, 1943 – August 11, 2023
Sue Ann Falco, of Vero Beach, Florida, passed away peacefully on August 11th, 2023, at the age of 80. Sue Ann was born as Sue Ann Boerckel in Queens, New York on July 21st, 1943. She met her future husband, Joseph Falco, in 1954 at Holmes Candy Store in Richmond Hill. The sweethearts wed on September 15th, 1962, at St. Theresa of Avila in Queens, marking the start of a long and loving marriage.
Sue Ann gave birth to the couple’s first child, a daughter named Trish, in 1965. Sue Ann and her family lived in Richmond Hill until 1968 when they moved to Long Island and welcomed their beloved son, Michael. An active part of her children’s lives, Sue Ann was a Brownie and Girl Scout leader, a den mother for Boy Scouts, and a soccer coach for her daughter Trish. In 1979, she led the charge against the West Islip School District for an infraction against Title IX, gaining permission for girls to play on the boys’ soccer team since there was no girls’ team at the time.
Despite not having graduated from high school, Sue Ann achieved her goals of going back to school and earned a Bachelor of Arts from St. Joseph’s College, a Master of Science in Education, and an Education Specialist degree from Piedmont College. She worked as a homemaker, in a pediatrician’s office, and as a school bus driver, but her favorite career was as a teacher. Cherishing the twenty years she spent in this role, Sue Ann even won Teacher of the Year while living in Paulding County, Georgia. Alongside Joseph, she remained a constant presence in her grandchildren’s lives, following her daughter’s family to Georgia and eventually Vero Beach, Florida, to always be close to them. She was lovingly known by her grandkids as Memaw.
Throughout her life, Sue Ann was an accomplished baker, a gifted watercolorist, a photography enthusiast, and an avid reader with a passion for American history. Her interest in history led her to deeply research her family tree, discovering her eligibility to become a member of the Daughters of the American Revolution. A lover of animals, she always had a St. Francis statue in her well-tended garden.
Sue Ann is preceded in death by her parents, Elsworth Boerckel and Florence Maresca. She is survived by her devoted husband Joseph, daughter Trish, son Michael and daughter-in-law Kimberly, and grandchildren Jax, Alexis, Joseph, and Anastasia. Sue Ann Falco was a remarkable woman, and she will be deeply missed.
Visitation will be held on August 17, 2023 from 5-7pm at Strunk Funeral Home, 916 17th Street, Vero Beach, FL.
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From Strunk Funeral Homes & Crematory
Thomas Browne, 91, Vero Beach
May 8, 1932 – August 13, 2023
Thomas Browne passed away on August 13, 2023 at Renaissance Senior Living.
He was born in Brooklyn in 1932. He graduated from St. John’s University in New York City.
Tom started his career as a CPA with Ernst & Ernst and went on to executive positions with other organizations.
He was a Korean war veteran and a member of Holy Cross Catholic Church.
In retirement, Tom found new inspiration and joy in studying painting at the Museum of Art in Vero Beach and sharing his works with friends and family.
He is survived by his wife Joan of 55 years. Niece Anne (Michael), Nephew Patrick (Anita) and Grand Niece Madeleine (Micah).
Tom will be greatly missed by his loving family and friends.
Services will be held at a later date at Arlington National Cemetery.
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From Strunk Funeral Homes & Crematory
Mary Lee (Thompson) Mercer, 90
July 31, 1933 – August 16, 2023
Our precious mom, wife and grandma, Mary Lee (Thompson) Mercer, passed away peacefully on August 16, 2023. She was born July 31, 1933, in Madison, Wisconsin.
Mom graduated from Ohio State University in 1955 coming away not only with a degree but the love of her life Tom and a love for Alpha Chi Omega. Mom and dad were married in 1956 spending 67 years together raising a family, bragging about their grandchildren, and traveling the globe as their passions. Mom spent 42 years with Alpha Chi as a member and president for house corporation while traveling to conventions and earning awards along the way.
In addition to Alpha Chi, mom was involved in bridge club, dancing with dad in the Reynoldsburg dance club and a 50-year member of the Ohio Eastern Star.
Her career spanned over 30 years as an elementary teacher. She started at Fairmoor school in Columbus and ending in Reynoldsburg at Graham Road for 25 years. She touched many lives in a positive way for both students and fellow teachers.
Her work and activities never took priority though over her children and eventually her grandchildren. She was an amazing mom and was our biggest cheerleader at our softball and baseball games and even our band concerts! She continued to cheer on her grandchildren at volleyball, soccer, cross country, and dance competitions!
She is preceded in death by her dad Wenzel (Tommy); mother, Mary; stepmother, Elaine, and granddaughter Emma Wunderlin.
She is survived by husband Tom; children, Chris, and Laura (Ken) Wunderlin; grandchildren, Olivia, Elise, Zachary and Nick and her devoted schnauzer Holly.
In lieu of a service, memorial donations can be made in mom’s name to OES Home at oeshome.org or the Masonic home at omcfoundation.org.
Arrangements are by Strunk Funeral Homes & Crematory, Vero Beach, Florida.
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From Strunk Funeral Homes & Crematory
Nelda Audrey Muhleman (nee Bilyeu), 95
June 2, 1928 – August 14, 2023
Mrs. Nelda Audrey Muhleman (nee Bilyeu), passed away on Monday, August 14, 2023 at the age of 95.
She was born in Powhatan Point, Ohio to Emmett and Beryl Massie Bilyeu.
Nelda worked in Ohio Valley Medical Center and Peterson Hospital, both in Wheeling, West Virginia as a secretary.
She was a member of Christ Methodist Church, Wheeling, West Virginia.
Nelda will be loved and missed by her surviving son, Brian Muhleman and his wife, Cathy of Dublin, Ohio; daughter, Diane Gibbons and her husband, Dan of Barefoot Bay, FL; 8 Grandchildren, 12 Great Grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her husband Donald S. Muhleman; sons, Don Stanford Muhleman and Reverend Doctor Keith Muhleman.
Memorial contributions may be made to Oglebay Foundation, 255 Mansion Drive, Wheeling, West Virginia 26003 in loving memory of Nelda Bilyeu Muhleman.
At Nelda’s request, no services will be planned.
Arrangements entrusted to Strunk Funeral Homes & Crematory, 1623 North Central Avenue, Sebastian, Florida 32958.
The family is grateful for condolences that may be shared at www.strunkfuneralhome.com.
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From Strunk Funeral Homes & Crematory
Timothy J. Failla, 59, Sebastian
February 7, 1964 – August 12, 2023
Timothy J. Failla, of Sebastian, Florida passed away unexpectedly on August 12, 2023 of cardiac arrest at 59 years old. Tim was born in Brooklyn, New York on February 7, 1964 to Joseph S. Failla and Dolores (Gatto) Failla. He moved to Sebastian, Florida in 1995.
Tim’s legacy is one of love. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, friend, coach, and mentor to so many around him, including his students. Tim was an educator serving the students of Indian River County for 15 years and was a parishioner of St. Sebastian Catholic Church.
He was a man who followed his passion, whether it was strumming on his guitar, mentoring at-risk kids, riding his motorcycle, writing poetry, pretending to do tea parties with his grandkids, hanging with his friends in the garage, or loving his wife, Sue.
He was preceded in death by his two beloved parents, Joe and Dolores Failla. He is survived by his wife, Sue (DeVirgilio) Failla; his children, Kimberly (Failla) Butz, Dana (Failla) Lee, Jenna (Failla) Valley; his son-in-laws, Tyler Butz and Mitch Valley; his grandchildren and founding members of the “Poppy Fan Club”, Nathan Lee, Benjamin Butz, Charlotte Butz and Makenna Lee; his siblings, Joey Failla, Chris Failla and Cindy (Failla) Rado; eighteen nieces and nephews; many brother and sister-in-laws; his two dogs, Woody and Buzz; and too many friends, colleagues, and students to list by name.
Tim’s wake will be held Thursday, August 17, 2023 at Strunk Funeral Home in Sebastian, Florida from 6-8pm. We know he has helped educate an entire generation of children in the county. As such, he would have it no other way then to continue serving those students, especially those among them who need the most help. In lieu of flowers, all donations will be used to help pay-off student lunch debt and purchase school supplies for students in Indian River County.
Fundraiser by Kimberly Failla Butz: In Loving Memory of Tim Failla (gofundme.com)
Arrangements entrusted to Strunk Funeral Homes & Crematory, 1623 North Central Avenue, Sebastian, Florida 32958.
The family is grateful for condolences that may be shared at www.strunkfuneralhome.com
To plant Memorial Trees in memory of TIMOTHY JOHN FAILLA, please click here to visit our Sympathy Store.
From Strunk Funeral Homes & Crematory
Jaquelyn Solis, 22
October 25, 2000 – August 15, 2023
Ms. Jaquelyn Solis, 22, died August 15, 2023, in Tampa, Florida.
Visitation will be held 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM on Monday August 21, 2023, Strunk Funeral Homes Chapel.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held 11:00 AM on Tuesday August 22, 2023, at Our Lady of Guadalupe Mission, 12896 County Road 512, Fellsmere, Florida 32958.
Arrangements are entrusted to Strunk Funeral Homes & Crematory, 1623 North Central Avenue, Sebastian, Florida 32958.
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From Strunk Funeral Homes & Crematory
Robert (Bob) Joseph Riney, 72, Vero Beach
December 9, 1950 – August 15, 2023
Our beloved Robert (Bob) Joseph Riney outlived his earthly home, where he passed, in Vero Beach, Florida on August 15, 2023.
Bob was 72 years young, born on December 9, 1950, in Washington, Indiana, son of Robert Francis Riney and Mary Alice Wimmenauer Riney, both now deceased.
Bob graduated from Washington Catholic Highschool in 1968 and attended Vincennes University in Vincennes, Indiana.
He has always loved music and played Bass guitar in bands since he was 13. His first band was Joey and the Delta, then the Legends and before he was transferred with his job to Ft. Smith, Arkansas, he played in Easy!!! Bob also loved camping with his family, growing up, which continued throughout his life. He loved boating, golf and auto racing as pastimes with so many fabulous memories.
As an after-school job in high school, Bob enjoyed working at the Bell Clothing Store, downtown Washington, Indiana. His first major job was at the McCord Corporation in his hometown, working with his dad.
Most of his adult life was working in advertising, first at the Washington Times, then became the Times Herald. He was transferred to Ft. Smith, Arkansas in 1978 as Classified Advertising Manager, then transferred again to Jacksonville, Texas in 1980 as Advertising Director. Bob and his wife, Lisa, owned and operated and Interior Design Shop in Tyler, Texas called Expressions, later they moved the shop to Jacksonville closer to home.
From there, he and his family, moved to Boca Raton. Florida in 1987 where he continued in the newspaper business. He travelled from Boca Raton to Vero Beach, Florida to work until they moved to Vero Beach in 1990.
Bob left the advertising business to pursue his love of music in 2000, then suffered a major heart attack in 2001. From that time forward, he was on disability for his heart.
In 2005, he began playing bass again with some fabulous guys in a band they called St. John’s Wood, an amazing band that he played with until 2020 when Covid hit and it just became too difficult on him to play.
Bob was preceded in death by two brothers, Gerald Francis Riney and Donald Edward Riney.
He is survived by his loving wife, Lisa Ann Leffler Riney, his sister Annette Kay Riney Stroud married to Tony Stroud in Indiana, Bob and Lisa’s daughters, Leah Kristen Riney, Vero Beach and Audra Deanne Riney, St. Cloud, Florida and their son Justin Robert Riney in Montana. His two granddaughters, Jordynn Alexandra Zanca and Brooke Avery Bobbitt as well as two beautiful great granddaughters.
There will be a Celebration of Life for Bob at The Plaza Banquet Room on Saturday, September 9th at 1:00 PM. The address is 884 17th Street, Vero Beach, Florida 32960.
If you would like to send a donation in lieu of flowers to Hospice House of Vero Beach, 901 37th Street, Vero Beach, Florida 32960 that would be appreciated. They were amazing!!!
From Strunk Funeral Homes & Crematory
John Andrew Kosco, 91, Hutchinson Island
May 4, 1932 – August 19, 2023
John Andrew Kosco, 91, of Hutchinson Island, Florida, passed peacefully at 9:58 pm on August 19, 2023 at the VNA Hospice House in Vero Beach, surrounded by his granddaughter, Rachel, and accompanied by his wife, his 5 children, Jan Kosco and Myric Laite.
John was born May 4, 1932, in Trenton, NJ, the son of the late Helen Dumelding Kosco and John Kosco, both naturalized US citizens originally from Hungary, and brother of the late Vilma Kosco Boyle. On March 30, 1957, he married Ann Marie Myers.
John was baptized at Saint Nicholas (Myklos) Byzantine Church. He attended Immaculate Conception Grammar School and graduated the class of 1950 from Trenton Catholic High School both in Chambersburg, Trenton, New Jersey. He registered for the Selective Service that year in Mercer County, NJ. He graduated from the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania with a degree in Finance in 1954. He was a brother in the Delta Upsilon Fraternity. Also, he was a member of the Penn Newman Center where he often played piano for the entertainment of members. There he met and charmed fellow student, Ann Myers, there in 1953 to whom he eventually proposed starting a journey of 66 years of marriage.
Upon graduation, he licensed as a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) and was recruited by the profession’s pre-eminent international auditing and accounting firm of Price Waterhouse at their primus inter pares office in New York. Technological, managerial, and accounting innovations developed during WWII promised a new, expanded role for accountants. Wartime experiences with computers provided a foundation for exciting postwar applications in the areas of sophisticated internal controls and statistical analysis. Postwar accountants were expected to assist in the mechanization of accounting and clerical procedures and transform accounting and reporting systems into more useful management tools. Throughout his professional life, John worked with these innovations and adapted their methods to the new electronic processes. As a result of his training in accounting and its independent role in corporate structures, John was uniquely capable of reconciling conflicting interests within a democratic society. He also used this ability in a number of pro bono activities throughout his life, in particular, as a member of the Delaware-Raritan Girl Scout Council Finance Committee, the Our Lady of Sorrows’ Parish Holy Name Society, Senior Club, and School Board.
On April 23, 1956 John entered active duty in the US Army as a Specialist 3rd Class. After the Hungarian Revolution in October-November 1956, the United States Army assisted in the resettlement of Hungarian refugees. John, tri-lingual in English, Hungarian, and German, was stationed in Baltimore, MD, where he served as a Hungarian translator. In February 1957, John received orders to transfer to the Army base in Frankfurt Germany for the rest of his 2-year service duty. On Valentine’s Day 1957, he proposed to Ann in Philadelphia hiding the engagement ring in a large heart-shaped box of chocolates. John and Ann married at the chapel at Villanova University, Ann’s home parish. John and Ann settled off-base in Frankfurt. John worked as an accountant for the Army. Ann gave birth to their first child and daughter, Marie Helen, on February 21, 1958. Two months later John was honorable discharged from military service and at that time completed his conversion to Roman Catholicism. The growing Kosco family returned to the United States to settle in Trenton, NJ. John returned to work at Price Waterhouse in New York and also served until 1962 in the Army Reserves. On the weekends, John and his father built the new family home at 332 Montana Avenue in Mercerville NJ where he and Ann welcomed, raised and educated 4 additional children, Patricia Ann (1959), John Francis (1963), Thomas Andrew (1966), and Catherine Lisa (1968).
He continued to be employed as a CPA throughout his career, working at the Strick Trailer Corporation (Levittown, PA), the Budd Company (Philadelphia, PA), the Philadelphia School Board (Philadelphia, PA), and finally the Educational Testing Services (ETS) (Princeton, NJ) from which he retired in 1994. He held many leadership positions during his years as a member of the Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA).
A member of the American Federation of Musicians of Trenton New Jersey, Local 62, John played professionally at multiple piano bar venues in the Trenton Metropolitan area until the 2000’s, often being advertised in the Trentonian entertainment section. Many will also close their eyes and hear him gathering us around the piano for a medley of Christmas songs while Grandmom baked her Hungarian cookies. In addition, through 2015, during tax season, John also provided personal income tax return services to a number of area residents.
John was physically active all his life. He was the unique Dad on the block who would get all the kids together for a game of baseball, serving as both coach and umpire. He loved the ocean making sure to take his children on annual summer vacations to Ocean City or Wildwood NJ. In his retirement years, he made nearly daily trips to the beach. He enjoyed playing tennis with his sister, Vilma. While at ETS, he played in their softball league until retirement, followed by volleyball on teams at Our Lady of Sorrows Parish and during the summer on the beach at Belmar, New Jersey. In the 2010’s, he switched to table tennis at the Hamilton Township Senior Center. He won a number of Gold Medals in the NJ Senior Olympics and within the family circle, he was known as the best partner in pinochle, a fierce competitor at the family summer picnic quoit tournaments and a genius in scrabble (although taking a beating from his big sister, Vilma, on many occasions).
A lifelong resident of the Trenton Metropolitan Area, due to health issues, in 2020, he moved closer to family members in Ft. Pierce, Florida and resided at the Lynmoore at Lawnwood Assisted Living Facility. His son Thomas was his right hand man until his death.
He is survived by his wife, Ann Kosco of Hutchinson Island, FL; his sister- and brother-in-law, Christine and Steven Malley of Charleston, SC; his daughter and son-in-law, Marie Kosco-Vilbois and Francis Vilbois of Minzier, France; daughter, Patricia Kosco Cossard of Trenton, NJ; son and daughter-in-law, John and Janet Kosco of Jamestown, NC; son and daughter-in-law, Thomas Kosco and Alicia Enriguez of Loxahatchee, FL; daughter and son-in-law, Catherine Kosco-Laite and Myric Laite of Hutchinson Island, FL; and Godson, James Boyle of Orlando, FL; grandchildren, Guillaume Vilbois of Arcachon, France; Joey Enriquez of Loxahatchee, FL; Samantha Kosco of Greensboro, NC; Katerina Cossard of Harrisburg, PA; Ryan Raffensberger of Winston-Salem, NC; Stefania Vilbois of St. Sulpice, Switzerland; Kelly Michel, nee Kosco, of Garner, NC; Rachel Walter, nee Raffensberger, of Hutchinson Island, FL; and Jessica Kosco of Kannapolis, NC; great-grandchildren, Analia Lozano, Joey Ethan and Armando Thomas Enriquez of Loxahatchee, FL; Thomas Murph Cossard-Mehalshick of Mercerville, NJ; and Layla Ann Walter of Hutchinson Island, FL. He is also survived by Hugues Cossard of Silver Spring, MD; Rebecca Lozano of Loxahatchee, FL; Killian Bichsel of St. Sulpice, Switzerland; Stu Michel of Garner, NC; Colin Mehalshick of Mercerville, NJ; Amara Raffensberger of Winston-Salem, NC; Christopher Jarrett of Greensboro, NC; and Larry Walter of Hutchinson Island, FL.
John is preceded in death by his parents, John and Helen; his sister, Vilma Boyle; his parents in-law, Frank and Marie Myers; sister-in-law, Frances Grauch, nee Myers; and nephew, Kevin Malley. John is survived by Vilma’s children Theresa, Sheila, Anthony, James, Sue, Joseph, Jill, Patrick, Bernadette, Monica, and Gerry; by Frances’ children Ted, Annette, and Pamela; by Christine’s children Lisa, Doug, Sean and Kristen.
A Funeral Mass will be held Friday August 25, 2023 at 10 am at St. Helen Catholic Church, 2085 Tallahassee Avenue, Vero Beach, FL 32960.
A luncheon will follow at The Plaza, next door to Strunk Funeral Home, 916 17th St, Vero Beach, FL 32960.
He will receive Military Funeral Honors and Burial at South Florida National Cemetery in Lake Worth, Florida at a future date.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to:
VNA Hospice House ℅ VNA & Hospice Foundation
445 24th Street
Vero Beach, FL 32960
Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital ℅ Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital Foundation
3377 State Road 7
Wellington, FL 33449
Jdchfoundation.org
Ronald McDonald House ℅ Ronald McDonald House Charities of Central Florida
6551 Nemours Pkwy
Orlando, FL 32827
Rmhc.org
To see the live stream of the Mass, please use the following link: https://vimeo.com/event/3655479
From Strunk Funeral Homes & Crematory
Avis Daly, 77
April 17, 1946 – August 21, 2023
In Loving Memory of Avis Daly
April 17, 1946 – August 21, 2023
It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved sister, Avis Daly. Avis passed away, leaving her family and friends with sad hearts and wonderful memories.
Avis was born on April 17, 1946, and from the very beginning, her vibrant spirit and warm heart brought joy to all who knew her. Her warm smile and infectious laughter brightened up any room she entered, leaving a lasting impression on all fortunate enough to share in her company. Avis’s positive outlook on life served as an inspiration to those around her, and her joyous spirit will continue to resonate in our hearts forever. Avis had a curiosity for the world, always eager to learn and explore new things.
She graduated from Michigan State University in 1968 with a degree in (fill in the blank) and earned a Master’s in Education from Barry College in 1998. Tennis was a passion for Avis. She enjoyed playing with her friends and loved watching tournaments in person or on TV. Travel led her to experience many countries and cultures, cultivating her curiosity and yearn to learn.
However, as all who knew her would be quick to tell you, her true passion were her dogs. A string of shih tzus, all named some variation of Samantha, gave her constant pleasure and joy.
Avis was a loving daughter. Her mother, Mary Ann Avis Daly, passed away when Avis was 4 years old, leaving a void in her life that was filled when her father, John F. Daly, married Casilda Boyd in 1953. Avis remained a dedicated daughter to them throughout her life, acting as the caregiver for Casilda Daly until her passing in 2009. Her love of her siblings was always evident through her ready smile and happiness at their successes. She harbored her greatest hopes and love for her son, Michael McGill, and she was happiest when he was happy and at her side.
In this time of mourning, let us remember the joy Avis brought into our lives and the enduring impact she made. May her soul find eternal peace, and may we find solace in the knowledge that we were blessed to have known such a loving sister.
Avis is survived by her son, Michael McGill, her 4 siblings (JoAnn Lee, Carol Dove, Peter Daly and Alexia Jurschak), her dog (Sammy) and more friends than we can count.
A funeral Mass and celebration of her life will be held in Vero Beach in October.
Avis wished that you make donations to the Humane Society of Vero Beach and Indian River County in lieu of flowers. Rest in peace Avis.
To plant Memorial Trees in memory of AVIS DALY, please click here to visit our Sympathy Store.
From Strunk Funeral Homes & Crematory
John P. Brady, 89, Vero Beach
May 17, 1934 – August 16, 2023
John P. Brady, 89, of Vero Beach, Florida went to the Lord on August 16, 2023. John was the husband of Emilie LaRue Brady, with whom he shared marriage for 57 years.
He was born May 17, 1934 in Queens County, New York, the son of Herbert B. Brady and Anne Monahan Brady of County Cavin, Ireland. John, with his older sister Catherine, grew up in Flushing (Queens) New York.
John was educated at St. Andrew’s Avellino School and Bayside High School, where upon graduation, was employed by Fireman’s Fund Insurance Company as a casualty underwriter, a job that would begin John’s long and successful career in the insurance industry. His career was interrupted for three years, when in 1952, he enlisted in the Marine Corps during the Korean conflict.
After his discharge, John returned to the insurance industry, and also attended Queen’s College studying business and finance. He received his New York Insurance Broker’s license in 1956, and shortly after, opened The John P. Brady Agency in Flushing, NY. After completing a series of exams, John was awarded the professional designation of “Chartered Property Casualty Underwriter (CPCU). It was at this time John purchased two other agencies, providing him significant exposure expanding his agencies into Long Island.
John was very active in his Church and the Queen’s community, where among other involvements, formed a public speaking club affiliated with Toastmaster’s International, serving as President of the local Rotary Club (1972-1973), and was a candidate for the NY City Council in 1980.
After many years of service, John sold his Agencies, and with his wife Emilie, moved to the Catskill Mountains. It was at this time that their love of travel emerged, leading the Brady’s to explore the USA and visit over fifty-five countries. It was in the Catskills that John also managed The Hudson Valley winery for a year and a half before moving back to Manhasset, NY.
This move led to John joining Johnson A. Higgins, one of the world’s largest international insurance brokerage firms, where for fifteen years was a major account manager. He retired as Vice President of both J&H, NY and J&H Nashville, TN.
Upon retirement, John and Emilie lived in Ashville, NC for several years, having lived prior in Nashville and Lake Winnipesaukee. While in Ashville, he donated a classroom at The University of NC for the senior’s program.
At last, John and Emilie found Vero Beach. Here, their volunteer work would flourish. Included in their service to Indian River Shores Public Safety was working with the Beach Patrol, House Patrol and Boat Patrol.
Remaining active, his love for his Holy Cross Catholic Church led him to be a Eucharistic Minister, Lector, Usher and member of many groups and committees.
He was also a 4th Degree member of the Knights of Columbus, including a term as The Faithful Navigator.
There will be a Mass of Christian Rites, followed by Marine Corps Honors at Holy Cross Catholic Church on Thursday, August 31 at 10:00am.
Please use the following link to connect to the live streaming of the Holy Cross Mass: https://youtube.com/live/t5GUC4pJjyU?feature=share
To plant Memorial Trees in memory of JOHN PATRICK BRADY, please click here to visit our Sympathy Store.
From Strunk Funeral Homes & Crematory
Dale H. Crane, 82, Vero Beach
March 8, 1941 – August 22, 2023
Dale H. Crane, 82, went to be with the Lord on August 22, 2023 after passing peacefully at his home in Vero Beach, FL.
He was born in Galesburg, IL on March 8, 1941 to Dale H. Crane and Helen Miller Crane who moved to Vero Beach when he was 5 years old.
Dale attended Vero Beach High School and later joined the U.S. Army Reserve and then the U.S. Navy. After leaving the Navy he worked in the construction industry.
He enjoyed several forms of painting including watercolor, oils, and acrylic which he was quite good at. He also enjoyed fishing, hunting, air boating, and most of all spending time with his family. He loved bluegrass music and traveling to Montana.
He was preceded in death by his parents Dale and Helen Crane, his sister Judy Brown and his beloved dog Tank.
He is survived by his wife of 60 years Mary Ann Crane; daughter Carmen Dahl and husband Lacey; son Chad Crane; grandchildren Paige Falcetta-Meager and husband Chris, Emily Falcetta, and Maci Crane; and great grandchildren Kaydence, Gunnar, and Alexis.
A service will be held Monday August 28, 2023, 2:00PM at Strunk Funeral Home.
In lieu of flowers donations may be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital or the charity of your choice in Dale’s memory.
To plant Memorial Trees in memory of DALE HENRY CRANE, please click here to visit our Sympathy Store.
From Strunk Funeral Homes & Crematory
Evelyn W. Joy, 98, Sebastian
March 8, 1925 – August 18, 2023
It is with great sadness that the family of Mrs. Evelyn W. Joy, beloved Sebastian, FL resident, announce her passing on August 18, 2023, at the age of 98.
Mrs. Joy was well-known throughout her life for being sincere, loyal, helping others, her sense of humor and for loving her family and her life.
She had a deep faith in Jesus Christ and loved reading the Bible. She was an active member of the Roseland United Methodist Church and was a volunteer in the church thrift store for 17 years, a 50 plus year member of the Eastern Star- Sebastian Chapter #204, the Order of the Amaranth-Treasure Coast Court # 76, Ladies Oriental Shrine of North America, Daughters of the Nile, Shilah Chapter #151 and the Elks Club in Sebastian and was selected as Elk of the Year from 2015-2016. She was also well known as a fundraiser for multiple organizations.
Mrs. Joy, formerly Evelyn Mae Wright was born in Pittsburg, PA, on March 8, 1925, and was the last surviving member of the Class of 1943 of Taylor-Allderice High School.
During World War II, Mrs. Joy worked at the Navy Yard and Atomic Energy Commission in Washington, DC. Mrs. Joy was a pioneer among women, being the first female civilian to fly solo from the airstrip at Fort Meade, MD.
Mrs. Joy was the daughter of Ernest Wright of England and Verna Hazel Brown of Pennsylvania. She was married to Henderson Haigler Ryder and later to Wendell S. Joy.
Mrs. Joy is survived by her sons Mark Ryder and his wife Maricela and Dana Ryder and his wife Sheila.
A Celebration of Evelyn’s life will be held at Strunk Funeral Home on US 1 in Sebastian, FL on Thursday August 24, 2023, with visitation from 5pm-6pm and her celebration service from 6pm-7pm.
Arrangements are entrusted to Strunk Funeral Homes & Crematory, 1623 North Central Avenue, Sebastian, Florida 32958.
The family would gladly accept prayers, condolences and memories shared at www.strunkfuneralhome.com.
To plant Memorial Trees in memory of EVELYN WRIGHT JOY, please click here to visit our Sympathy Store.
From Strunk Funeral Homes & Crematory
William A. Rose, Jr., 84
November 26, 1938 – August 27, 2023
William A. Rose, Jr., FAIA, passed away peacefully on August 27, 2023 at the age of 84. He grew up on Long Island and graduated from the McBurney School in Manhattan where he was an accomplished athlete, president of the Student Council, and winner of the school’s most prestigious award, the Robert Ross McBurney medal. Bill graduated cum laude from Harvard in 1960 with a degree in Architectural Sciences. While at Harvard, he was a member of the varsity swimming team, golf team, Krokodiloes, D.U. (now the Fly) and Hasty Pudding clubs. Also while at Harvard, he met and fell in love with a Wellesley freshman who would be his wife for 62 years, Sandra.
He earned an M.Arch at Columbia in 1964 and entered the family architectural and engineering firm. He was an award-winning architect licensed in 17 states and jurisdictions. During his career, he was active with the American Institute of Architects (AIA) serving as a chapter and state (NY) president, and later as a regional director and national Vice President. For his efforts Bill received his chapter’s rarely-awarded gold medal, and NYSAA’s Del Guadio and Kideney service awards. While on the AIA national board he was elevated to fellowship in 1981, serving as chairman of the AIA Research Corporation, and chairman of the interdisciplinary Committee on Federal Procurement of Architectural and Engineering Services. He continued his service by becoming a member of the AIA College of Fellows Executive Committee in 1986 and its Chancellor in 1990. At the time of his death, he was the senior Chancellor emeritus.
Bill held leadership positions in a large number of civic organizations in White Plains, NY and the surrounding region. These included Council President of the White Plains Common (City) Council, Chairman of the YMCA of Central and Northern Westchester, President of the Harvard Club of Westchester, and Chairman of the Board of Trustees of Mercy College, which awarded him an Honorary Doctor of Humane Letters. As a White Plains Councilman, he co-authored and successfully introduced the City’s first comprehensive accessibility legislation (cited by the American National Standards Institute as a model for other municipalities to follow), as well as a resolution to direct federal Community Development Act funds to stabilize older neighborhoods surrounding the City’s central business district. He was a Paul Harris Fellow of Rotary International, an honor bestowed on him by the White Plains Rotary Club.
Bill was a lifelong golf enthusiast shooting his age or better beginning at the age of 71 and continuing annually until illness overtook him. He was a member and past President of his home club Winged Foot Golf Club in Mamaroneck, NY, a member of the Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St. Andrews, a former member of the Sunningdale Golf Club in England, and a member of the John’s Island Club in Vero Beach, Florida where he won several men’s and senior club championships. During his golfing life, Bill scored five holes-in-one and one double eagle, and though his handicap never got to scratch, he was a one-handicap player off and on for several years. He was also a Life Member of the New York Athletic Club for whom he played water polo in the 1957 national AAU championships.
Bill was very proud of his Norman/Scottish heritage and could trace his ancestry back to the twelfth century including Robert, a collateral surety baron of the Magna Carta. He was a Life Member of the Clan Rose Society of America, and a former Board Member of the St. Andrew’s Society of New York. He could be seen at many venues appropriately dressed in a Clan Rose tartan kilt or trews.
Music also played an important part in Bill’s life. In addition to lending his tenor voice to his church choir, he sang with the John’s Island singers, the Atlantic Schola Cantorum, and the Vero Beach Choral Society. The latter group performed the New York debut of Stephen Edwards’ Ave Maria Mass at Carnegie Hall dedicated to the victims of 9/11.
Bill learned to play bridge initially by kibitzing games on the train to New York. Though the game he watched, nicknamed “goulash” for its shortcuts, wasn’t in strict accordance with the rules of the game, the basics of bidding, play and scoring were observed. In later years he occasionally played duplicate bridge with his father, who was an excellent player, successfully representing the NY Athletic Club in the New York Interclub Contract League, reputedly the oldest surviving bridge league in the world. After his father died, he continued playing for the NYAC with a fellow member who taught him the modern game. After retirement, he finally joined the American Contract Bridge League and eventually accumulated enough master points to become a Ruby Life Master. With another of his bridge partners, he co- founded the Treasure Coast Interclub Bridge League in Florida as its first Chairman and Captain of the John’s Island Team of Four.
Bill is pre-deceased by his parents, William and Josephine. He is survived by his wife, Sandra, their two wonderful daughters, Lindsay Rose, Lesley Rose May (Stuart), and his grandson Dylan Musgrave (Anakarina). In addition to his immediate family, he is survived by his younger brothers Donald (Carol), Alan (Janet), his sister Nancy and a large number of nieces and nephews.
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From Strunk Funeral Homes & Crematory
James C. Smith, 89, Vero Beach
December 21, 1933 – August 23, 2023
James C. Smith of Vero Beach, Florida formerly of County Dublin, Ireland, went home to the Lord on August 23, 2023.
He was born to Philip and Mary Ann Smith (Chaddock) on December 21, 1933. As a young man he immigrated to the United States upon which, shortly after, entered a Catholic Seminary, and received a BA Degree from the Catholic University in Washington, DC. However, he left the seminary in pursuit of a stronger calling to work with and help children. He moved to Monmouth County, New Jersey where his calling was realized he was hired as a social worker with the New Jersey Division of Youth and Family Services.
It was a State social worker that he met another worker who would become his lifelong partner, his love, his lady —Laura Thatcher.
One of his supervisors said of him: “He is a man of God, and it was from this orientation that Jim believed he was his “brother’s keeper”. On February 18, 1983 Jim received the Ranch Hope Wrangler Award for the outstanding Social Worker of the year. The Director of the Division of Management wrote of Jim’s award as being “not only public recognition of excellence in his chosen field of social work, but also served as a favorable reflection upon the entire division of Youth and Family Services”.
On March 11, 1999, on the Centennial Anniversary of the Division of Youth and Family Services, the New Jersey Task Force on Abuse and Neglect honored Jim with the Hero Award for his excellence in supplying support and service to the children and families of New Jersey. Noted, was Jim’s unrelenting commitment to children and families, in and outside parameters of his job description. As stated by co-workers, it was not uncommon to find Jim personally assisting families with home repairs necessary to maintain a safe environment for children.
Jim also coordinated a community effort to open Camp Tecumseh, a camp for special needs children, which serves one hundred children for a week each year. It is run by the Salvation Army, along with volunteers including Jim. Other programs containing Jim’s people skills and coordination, were the Governor’s Annual Coat and Toy Drive and the Monmouth County Foster Parent and Children Annual Picnic and Easter Egg Hunt.
As Jim readily acknowledged, “the Good Lord directed me”.
After 30 years of passionately serving the needs of children, Jim retired in 1999. It should be noted he was an animal lover of mostly dogs (and some cats).
In addition to his parents, Jim was predeceased by his brothers: Philip, Thomas, John and Patrick; his love, Laura Thatcher; and his ex-wife Patricia Smith. He is survived by his son, Christopher and son-in-law Danny Middleton, Jr.; his brother Michael (Collette); his sisters, Charlotte Kelley (Brian) and Mary Tierney (Michael) along with many nieces and nephews.
It was Jim’s wish that donations be made to: Boy’s Town, Nebraska http://support.boystown.org/donate
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