From Strunk Funeral Homes & Crematory
Charles “Charlie” Fowler Halberstam, (63), Vero Beach
May 16, 1961 – July 16, 2024
Charles “Charlie” Fowler Halberstam (63), a beloved and cherished member of the Vero Beach community, passed away unexpectedly at his home on July 16, 2024. Born in Burlington, VT, Charlie was raised in Foxhall Village, Washington, DC. He was the cherished son of Dr. Michael Joseph Halberstam and Linda Brackett, who preceded him in death.
Charlie leaves behind a legacy of love and devotion, forever etched in the hearts of those who knew him. He was survived by his brother Eben Gile Halberstam (Barbara Miller Halberstam). His love of 40 years, Carol Bradley Hurst Halberstam, was not only his partner but also his best friend, sharing a bond that surpasses the bounds of time. Together, they created a beautiful family, with Charlie being a loving and devoted father to Michael Hurst Halberstam, Letitia “Letty” Halberstam Kellow (Robert James Kellow), and Samuel Gile Halberstam (deceased). Charlie found immense joy in being a grandfather to Callie Bradley Kellow.
He is also survived by his father-and mother-in-law, John Edward Hurst IV and Letitia “Letty” Trimper Hurst, his brothers-in-law, John “Jay” Edward Hurst V, William “Bill” Bell Hurst (Julia Ann Zachar), and Byron “Bo” Watson Hurst, and his nieces and nephews, Ashtyn Hurst Baker (Bradley Philip Baker), Cortland Bradley Hurst, Roxanne Nicole Zachar and Jake William Hurst. Also, he leaves behind numerous close friends who will forever cherish his memory.
Charlie was a pillar of strength and support, a steady anchor for all who knew him. Renowned for his unyielding patience and kindness, he embraced life with an unwavering sense of love, optimism and humor. Charlie’s inherent belief in good served as a guiding light to all who crossed his path. With his personable and charismatic nature, he left a lasting impression on everyone he encountered.
Family was of utmost importance to Charlie, with their happiness being his sole priority. His generosity knew no bounds, as he selflessly extended himself to others without hesitation. He was the embodiment of unconditional love, always willing to go above and beyond for those in his life.
An entrepreneur at heart, Charlie was intellectually curious and constantly sought out new endeavors, approaching life with an insatiable thirst for knowledge.
Whether he was at the beach, reading, fishing, golfing, or simply spending quality time with loved ones, Charlie embraced each moment with an unmatched zest for life.
Charlie Halberstam has left an indelible mark on the lives of all who had the privilege of knowing him. A man of integrity, love, and compassion, he exemplified the virtues of a true gentleman. As we bid farewell to Charlie, let us celebrate his remarkable life and honor the legacy of kindness and selflessness he leaves behind. May his memory live on forever in our hearts, reminding us of the immeasurable impact one person can make in the world.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a memorial contribution in memory of Charlie’s name to the Maasai Girls Education Fund https://maasaigirlseducation.org/ and One Montgomery Green https://onemontgomerygreen.org/
From Strunk Funeral Homes & Crematory
Sandra Capone Cooke, 71, Vero Beach
February 7, 1953 – June 25, 2024
Sandra Capone Cooke was born February 7th, 1953 in Houston, PA, but raised in Vero Beach, FL. She was the daughter of Verna Mae Suriano and John James Capone. After junior high, Sandra moved to New Jersey and graduated from Metuchen High School. She then went to Slippery Rock University where she studied to become a Spanish teacher. She spent her junior year in Valencia, Spain and had a lifelong love for that country, visiting Spain several times since then.
Sandi returned to Vero Beach after college and taught in the bilingual program in Fellsmere, FL for two years. In 1979 she met her husband to be, Churchill Cooke, who convinced her to move with him to New Mexico where he’d been living. She spent the next ten years teaching in several towns there until she settled in Ruidoso, married Churchill, and gave birth to Barbara Jane Cooke. Two years later she discovered that there was a need for bilingual educators in the central valley of California, so moved her little family first to Corcoran, CA then Visalia, CA where they spent the next twenty seven years teaching. In 2016, after they retired, she decided she wanted to move back to Vero Beach to be close to the beach and be surrounded by some of her remaining relatives. Barbara, her husband Garry, and their son Arlo also moved to Vero Beach as well. Sandi loved this because she could be close not only to her daughter but her one and only grandson. Sandi was an active member of Vero Cycling, the First Presbyterian Church, and our local ukulele group. Her true passion, though, was dogs and cats, especially black cats.
In late May, she was having difficulty breathing and had a pain in her abdomen which turned out to be liver cancer. She went into the hospital and had a heart attack as well. After three weeks of trying different medications, her body just basically gave up and she passed away June 25th. Sadly, they celebrated their 40th wedding anniversary two days earlier.
Sandra is survived by her husband Churchill, her daughter Barbara, son-in-law Garry, grandson Arlo, sister Barbara Alice, who lives in Hendersonville, NC, six nieces, a nephew, and their children, some who live here in Vero Beach. Sandra will indeed be missed by us all.
In lieu of flowers, please donate money to your local no kill animal shelter. I’m sure Sandi would appreciate that.
To plant Memorial Trees in memory of SANDRA C. COOKE, please click here to visit our Sympathy Store.
From Strunk Funeral Homes & Crematory
Lois R. Koch, 88, Vero Beach
September 29, 1935 – July 5, 2024
Lois R. Koch, age 88, passed away on Friday, the 5th of July 2024, after a brief illness in Vero Beach, Florida.
She was born September 29th, 1935 to the late Esther and Vernon Rehm. She was preceded in death by her two brothers, Robert Rehm (Akron, Ohio) and Jack Rehm (Rochester Hills, Michigan).
Lois grew up in Akron, Ohio, where she attended Akron High School and later attended Miami University, where she met her beloved husband, Richard Koch of 54 years. After college she began her teaching career in New York. She and her husband lived in Mahwah, New Jersey then to Paradise Valley, Arizona where they resided for 34 years.
Dick and Lois spent many years traveling. The last trip they enjoyed together was to China before Dick’s passing in 2007.
In 2014 Lois moved to Vero Beach, Florida. She attended Christ by the Sea United Methodist Church.
Lois continued traveling. While on one of her many trips, she met Rod Davis who became her special friend and frequent traveling partner for the next 13 years.
When she wasn’t traveling, she resided at the Acts Community in Indian River Estates the last two years.
Lois was cremated by her request and will have a small service at St. Michael’s church in Marshallville, Ohio later this fall. She will be interred next to her husband Dick.
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From Strunk Funeral Homes & Crematory
Michael Edward Ensor, 74, Sebastian
January 15, 1950 – July 18, 2024
Michael Edward Ensor, 74, of Sebastian, Florida, formerly of Peru, Illinois, passed away unexpectedly on July 18, 2024.
He was born January 15, 1950, in Peru, Illinois to the late Carl and Marie (Haesler) Ensor. He was one of six children.
Mike was a 1968 graduate of LaSalle Peru Township High School. He served in the United States Armed Forces from 1970 -1975.
He retired from Caterpillar in Aurora, Illinois and moved to Florida nearly 20 years ago, where he found his dream job at John’s Island Club, Vero Beach. While he loved what he did, he loved the John’s Island Family even more. Meeting so many people and helping them with whatever he could, brough much joy to his life.
Mike thoroughly enjoyed playing pool, playing in various leagues and on several teams throughout his life, he won numerous championships, even playing in tournaments in Las Vegas. Mike most recently enjoyed playing on a team with great friends at Poolies in Palm Bay, Florida. Mike also loved the Chicago Bears and spending time with his granddaughters.
He leaves behind his two daughters Amanda (Anthony) Glover of Sarasota, Florida and Stacie Mertes of Peru, Illinois; two granddaughters Avery and Emma Mertes; and his faithful and loving companion Coco Chanel. There will be no services at this time. Anyone wishing to make memorials in Mikes honor can do so to his granddaughters Avery and Emma Mertes at LaSalle State Bank, 901 Wenzel Rd, Peru, IL 61354, In their respective names.
Arrangements entrusted to Strunk Funeral Homes & Crematory, 1623 North Central Avenue, Sebastian, Florida 32958.
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From Strunk Funeral Homes & Crematory
Mrs. Carol Sikes Crisp, 76, Micco
January 2, 1948 – July 16, 2024
Mrs. Carol Sikes Crisp, 76, died July 16, 2024 at her residence in Micco, Florida with her loving family by her side.
She was born in Macon, Georgia and lived in Micco, Florida since 1999 coming from Fellsmere, Florida.
Carol retired from Harris Industries where she was employed as Electronics Tech for 30+ years.
She was a member of Sebastian River Baptist Church, Sebastian, Florida.
Survivors include her loving husband of 25 years, Robert Crisp of Micco, FL; daughters Melissa Kline and Julie Thornton, brother Glen McDaniel.
She was preceded in death by her first husband Richard Sikes, brothers Charles and Chris McDaniel.
Memorial contributions may be made to the charity of one’s choice.
Visitation will be held 1:00 PM on Friday July 26, 2024 Strunk Funeral Home, 1623 North Central Avenue, Sebastian, Florida 32958.
A Memorial Service will be held 2:00 PM on Friday July 26, 2024 at Strunk Funeral Home Chapel.
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”) Ellsworth Ennis, 90, Vero Beach
June 26, 1934 – July 28, 2024
Bob served honorably in the Air Force during the Korean War as an aircraft engine mechanic with a B-29 bomber wing before he began his career in Mining Engineering.
In 1958, while working at Humphreys Gold Corporation in Jacksonville, Florida, Bob met Annetta Wainwright. It was love at first sight and they married within six months. In December 2023, they celebrated their 65th wedding anniversary.
During his 40-year career, Bob travelled to South Africa, the Middle East, South America, Europe and Asia in search of key minerals needed for industry. His dedication led to his promotion as Managing Director of Hewitt Robins International, CEO of Linatex and CEO of National Conveyors. A family man, Annetta and his daughters were fortunate to accompany him on combined business/pleasure travels whenever possible.
Bob enjoyed playing tennis and golf as well as skiing. In Vero Beach, he and Annetta have lived at Sea Oaks Beach and Tennis Club both part and full time for more than 20 years in addition to their homes in Simsbury and Avon Connecticut where they were active members of Hopmeadow Country Club and Hopbrook Tennis Club.
Known for his positive outlook, Bob was a peaceful man who loved his family deeply, saw the best in everyone, and touched hearts with his gentle soul and endearing smile.
Bob and Annetta have been faithful members of Trinity Episcopal Church in Vero Beach for over 20 years. The family is very grateful for the compassion of our friends and clergy of Trinity as Bob joins our Lord. The family will hold a private remembrance and interment service. Your thoughts and prayers are welcome.
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From Strunk Funeral Homes & Crematory
Kevin Michael Worcester, 53, Vero Beach
May 12, 1971 – July 29, 2024
Kevin Michael Worcester, 53, of Vero Beach, Florida, passed away Monday, July 29, 2024.
Born May 12, 1971 in Annapolis, Maryland, He was the son of James Calvert Worcester and Kathryn Weigand Worcester-Bach.
Kevin graduated from Broadneck Senior High School in May 1989. He received a Bachelor of Arts from Roanoke College, Roanoke, VA in August 1993.
He enjoyed skiing, golf and cooking.
Kevin worked as a carpenter in Breckenridge, Colorado and in food services & preparation in Breckenridge and Vero Beach.
Kevin is survived by his loving parents, James C. Worcester and Kathryn Weigand Worcester-Bach; step-father, Thomas R. Bach; step-mother, Jocelyn Worcester; step-siblings, Thomas M. Bach, Brian R. Bach and Joy M. Malloy; and many other loving family & friends.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at Holy Cross Catholic Church on Monday, August 12, 2024 at 10am.
In lieu of flowers, please make a donation in Kevin’s honor to a charity of your choosing.
To plant Memorial Trees in memory of KEVIN MICHAEL WORCESTER, please click here to visit our Sympathy Store.