In Memoriam
We honor and remember these valued members, spouses, and dear friends of The Franklin Club who have passed on. Their passion, friendship, and contributions to our community will always hold a special place in our hearts. We are dedicated to preserving their memory and celebrating the joy they brought to our lives and to the road.
Obituaries and Remberances are listed below chronologically. To jump to an individual, select them by name on the right.
July 29, 2025
Judith Zwaaf, of Hopwell, NJ, passed away on July 23, 2025 at the age of 82.
Born in Princeton, NJ, Judy grew up in Rocky Hill and attended Princeton High School. She earned a bachelor’s in history from Gettysburg College and a Master in Library Science from Rutgers University. She lived most of her life in Hopewell, NJ with her late husband of 53 years, Allan.
Judy worked for 41 years in the Princeton Regional Schools as a librarian, first at her alma mater Princeton High School, and then at Little Brook School until her retirement. She enjoyed connecting with students and helping them find the resources they were looking for.
Judy loved horses, which is how she met her husband. Their love of horses was passed on to their daughter, Katrina. In addition, they also shared interests in history and antiques, and they discovered antique shops wherever they went. Judy also shared her husband’s love of antique cars, their two Franklins and Mustang being her favorites. During her retirement she volunteered at the Hopewell Public Library and the Hopewell Museum. She will be remembered for her kindness and her smile.
Judy is survived by her daughter Katrina Zwaaf and son-in-law Geoffrey Wood.
Funeral services are Saturday, July 26 at 11:00 AM at Highland Cemetery located at 95 Hopewell-Wertsville Road, Hopewell, NJ 08525.
Memorial contributions are respectfully requested to be sent to the Hopewell Museum www.thehopewellmuseum.org/ or contribute to the H.H. Franklin Club: www.franklincar.org/donate.htm
July 9, 2025
John H. Hufnagel passed away July 9, 2025 under the care of Niagara Hospice. Born August 11, 1928 in Lockport he was the son of John J. and Catherine (Wuebben) Hufnagel. He served in the US Air Force from 1946 to 1949 and was an aircraft mechanic working for both American Airlines for 33 years retiring in 1984 and at Calspan retiring in 1992. John was a member of the H.H. Franklin Club and A.A. Vanguard. He enjoyed antique cars and cukoo clocks. John was predeceased by his wife of 67 years Mary Rose (Ben) Hufnagel in 2020.
John is survived by his children Dan (Karen) Hufnagel, James (Joan) Hufnagel, Janet (Eric) Blackstone, and Catherine (Andre) Nacov; daughter-in-law Denise Hufnagel; grandchildren David, Laura, Brian, Connor, Daniel, and Samantha; seven great grandchildren; sister Maryann Simmons; also several nieces and nephews. He was also predeceased by his sons David Hufnagel, John Hufnagel, and siblings Florence Hufnagel, Elizabeth (Tom) Ellerbusch, Rosemary (Gerry) Stevenson, and Roman Hufnagel.
Relatives and friends are invited to a graveside service Saturday, July 12th at 11 AM at Cold Springs Cemetery. Visit pruddenandkandt.com
April 25, 2025
Sadly we note the passing of Armand Aquilino, who passed away on April 25. Armand Urbane Aquilino II, 84, of Eastwood, joined his heavenly parents on Wednesday, April 23, 2025. He was with family, passing comfortably at the home he was born in on February 2, 1941, to Dr. Leonard M. Aquilino and Mrs. Louise Wadanole Aquilino. His joyful childhood was split between the Eastwood neighborhood and Oneida Lake.
Armand's simple motto was two fun things every day; whether it was as simple as a sip of his coffee, genuinely enjoyed, or sharing a scoop of maple-walnut ice cream with someone you love.
He attended Huntington Elementary School, Eastwood Junior High School, and Eastwood Senior High School. He then went to Syracuse University (Go Orange!!), where he earned his degree in Athletics. Armand got his master's degree in athletics from SUNY Cortland.
Sgt. Aquilino served four years in the U.S. Air Force at Hamilton Air Force Base in California. As the recreation officer, he trained a few U.S. Olympic boxers; that athletics degree really paid off. He loved his time in California and discovered the magic of wine country.
After his service, he worked for the Syracuse Parks and Recreation Department as the Administrator for the Village of East Syracuse. He was also the designer/developer of the Hanlon Pool and Ellis Field Park.
His company venture, BEAR Construction, was formed with a good friend, Steve Bell (the BE), and Armand (the AR). He reliably operated it for 40 years, even working with his brother Leonard until he semi-retired, (semi) because he could never really stop tinkering with his tools. Armand was an honorary member of the Retired Fire Chiefs.
Armand treasured cars, especially his Canary Yellow Corvette with the Red Leather interior. He was a proud 50-year member of the Franklin Auto Club and loved his glimmering 1928 Franklin.
He is survived by his daughter, Amanda "Amy" Lee Aquilino, and his 14-year-old grandson, Desmond Vedder Ross of Portland, Oregon. Grandpa Armand reminded everyone that Desmond made him feel like a million bucks.
He's also survived by his brother, Leonard M. Aquilino, and his companion, Ann Dlugozima.
A kind man, a front porch fixture his neighbors will miss, he relished life, the people he found along the way, and tasty food (prim arily Vito's Ristorante), though he savored his family and friends most.
A graveside service with Military Honors will be held on Thursday, May 8, 2025, at 11:00 am in St. Mary's Cemetery, DeWitt, NY.
April 2, 2025
Sadly we note the passing of Jim Hull, who passed away on April 2.Jim was born in the little farming community of Wellsville, Kansas and came west to attend the University of Colorado in Boulder, where he earned a degree in marketing. There, he met and married his wife, Betty. They shared over 59 years of wonderful adventures since they both loved to travel.
In 1972, Jim began the Ore Cart Rock Shop on Elkhorn Avenue. It was a success and led to a second store in Vail and a third one in Breckenridge. He sold his business in 2022 to Steve and Andrea Colburn, who’ve happily continued it.
Jim is survived by his wife, Betty, who is determined not to be lost in grief, but rather to concentrate on all the wonderful times and places around the world they’ve shared.
His friends all say the world will be a little poorer without him.
March 30, 2025
Dr. Charles Johnson passed away peacefully on March 9, 2025, in Midlothian, Va. He was preceded in death by his wife of 68 years, Lynda May Johnson (nee Fain); his parents, Kathryn and Carl Johnson; and his brother, William Johnson. Chuck was born and raised in Buffalo, N.Y., and attended Syracuse University, where he was a member of the Kappa Epsilon fraternity.
He met Lynda on a blind date and they were married on August 8, 1953. Chuck completed his studies at SU, earning a Ph.D. in chemical engineering, before taking a position with Westinghouse in Pittsburgh, Pa., working on the early version of nuclear power submarine propulsion. Starting in 1961, he worked for Carrier Corporation in Syracuse, N.Y., and moved the family to Cazenovia, where they raised three daughters. In 1977, Charles took the position as technical director for the National Solid Waste Management Association in Washington, DC, until he retired. Mbr>
Chuck and Lynda moved to Lake Monticello, Palmyra, Va., in 1996, where he was very active with Habitat for Humanity, AARP Tax Preparation, and Meals-on-Wheels. For many years, Chuck and Lynda were active in the H.H. Franklin Club, which is dedicated to the preservation of the manufacturing history of air-cooled Franklin cars, and they regularly attended club events, including participating in a London to Brighton car race. He was also an avid golfer and together, they had a very active social life. During their golden years, Chuck and Lynda traveled extensively through Europe and made many lasting relationships. They later moved to Brandermill Woods independent living community. Chuck was often tending his rose garden and was known to bring the ladies a rose now and then.
February 14, 2025
Roy Charles Bernick, age 95, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed peacefully from this life into God’s loving embrace on Friday, February 14, 2025, at Quiet Oaks Hospice House.
Roy was born September 14, 1929, and was a lifelong resident of the St. Cloud/Waite Park area. He lived a very full life and was known for his friendliness and great sense of humor. He grew up in the family beverage business and worked there until his retirement. He was a founding member of the Minnesota Pepsi Collector’s Club.
His true passion was collecting and restoring antique cars. He bought his first car when he was 25, and the rest is history. He was a founding member of the Pan Town Car Club, and a member of the Franklin Car Club, Curved Dash Oldsmobile Club, Minnesota Horseless Carriage, Antique Auto Club, and the Brush Auto Club. His highlights include flying his 1903 Curved Dash Oldsmobile to London, England, in 1996, and competing in the London to Brighton Car Run. This car run was replicated in Minnesota. He was very involved in the New London to New Brighton Car Run. In 1985 he drove his 1903 Curved Dash Oldsmobile from California to New York, which took 36 days. He was also invited to visit Jay Leno and got a tour of all of his cars.
Roy served in the Merchant Marines and later in the Army’s Airborne Division. He was a paratrooper and completed 18 jumps. He served in the Korean War and was awarded the Bronze Star.
Roy was united in marriage to Rena Kuklok on November 9, 1957. They had four children-- Dean, Joy, Todd, and Lisa. They later divorced. He married Colleen Rawlings on June 14, 2000.
A celebration of life will be held on May 17th, from 1:00-5:00 in Roy's Car Building.
March 1, 2025
Donald R. Chapman, at 97 years, passed away early February 22, while a resident of the Cottages at Garden Grove-Cicero, New York. Don was the son of Vera and Russell Chapman.
With a technical background, Don worked at General Electric/ Lockheed Martin for over fifty years. Don focused and admired all antique and classic cars and fire trucks. Don was a member of the Antique Automobile Club of America, Classic Car Club of America, H.H.Franklin Car Club, the Pierce Arrow Society and the Society for the Preservation and Appreciation of Antique Motor Fire Apparatus of America and owned numerous vehicles during his driving life. Don enjoyed learning the history of vehicles built in Syracuse (Franklin, Brennen), Rochester (Cunningham), Buffalo (Pierce Arrow, Thomas) and Elmira (American LaFrance).
Don was an active meet and trek participant for over seventy years. Don, and good friend Hank, drove Don’s 1936 Pierce Arrow 1601 sedan to the first AACA fall meet (1954), but the 18 year old car was not admitted on the show field.
Don owned an early 1925 11A Franklin Touring and smiled whenever he drove it. Two of Don’s cars are on display at the Northeast Auto Museum in Norwich, New York: a 1938 Bantam roadster and a 1938 Pierce Arrow 1803 Town Car.
We will miss his enthusiasm, joy in sharing, extraordinary memory of auto details and his friendship.
Don’s life will be celebrated in May 2025.
February 24, 2025
Michael P. Reeve, 83, of Cazenovia, NY, passed away on February 1, 2025, surrounded by his family, joining his beloved wife Mary Therese (Bunnell) Reeve, who preceded him in death nine months earlier. Born April 4, 1941, in Chillicothe, Ohio to John Harvey and Loretta Anne (Ropella) Reeve, Mike spent his formative years in Milwaukee and Waukesha, Wisconsin.
A lifelong learner and dedicated engineer, Mike pursued his education while working in his uncle J. Donald Reeve's machine shop. He earned his engineering degree from Marquette University through night school, demonstrating the perseverance that would characterize his entire career. His technical expertise led him to General Motors' Ternstedt Division in Syracuse, NY, where he completed a Tool and Die apprenticeship and worked on gyroscope parts for the Apollo space missions.
In partnership with his brother Joe and his father, J. Harvey, Mike established Reeve Garage Builders in Phoenix, NY, where the company became known for efficient garage construction. In the 1980s, he transitioned to education, earning his B.S. from Empire State College and M.S. in Vocational Technical Education from SUNY Oswego. As a professor of Mechanical Engineering Technology at SUNY Morrisville, Mike shared his extensive practical knowledge with the next generation of engineers until his retirement.
Mike's passion for engineering and problem-solving continued in his collaboration with his son Patrick and grandson Michael at Reeve Enterprises, where they specialize in race engine machining and providing repairs for local agriculture. He was an enthusiast of vintage automobiles, restoring classic cars, including a Stanley Steamer, and was a regular participant in the Franklin Trek in Cazenovia. He also loved helping the grandkids optimize engines for microd racing at the State Fair.
Above all, Mike was devoted to his wife of over 55 years, Mary Therese, providing devoted care during her final years. He is survived by his children: Mary Pat (Mark) Daly and their children Emma, Simon, Callum, and Joy; Patrick Joseph Reeve and his children Matthew, Theresa, and Michael; and Maggie Ann Tompkins and her children Gwendolyn and Madeline.
A Mass celebrating Michael's life will be held on Friday, March 7th at 10:30am at Immaculate Conception Church, 400 Salt Springs St, Fayetteville, NY. A reception will follow in the church hall.
February 20, 2025
Gordon H. Howard, 88, of Vernon, passed away on February 14, 2025, after a long and fulfilling life. He drew great enjoyment from his family, antique Franklin automobiles, model trains, UConn women’s basketball, and the birds that flocked to his backyard feeders.
Gordon was born on April 5, 1936, in Providence, R.I., to Robert McLaren Howard and Helen Huey Hyde Howard. He graduated from James T. Lockwood High School in Warwick, R.I., in 1954 and received a bachelor’s degree in textile engineering from Rhode Island School of Design in 1958. He was drafted in the U.S. Army shortly after graduation, and being discharged he went to work at Cheney Brothers in Manchester, Conn. There he met Carol Cordner, who he married in 1964 at South United Methodist Church in Manchester. Soon after the wedding they bought a home in Andover, where they raised three boys. All three played basketball at RHAM and he never missed a game. He owned two Franklins—“Bertha,” from 1927, and another from 1930—and attended every annual “Trek” of the HH Franklin Club for more than 50 years consecutively. He was also passionate about his Scottish ancestry and traveled with some of his family to his clan’s homeland in 1997.
Gordon worked numerous jobs in textile engineering, most prominently JH Fenner & Co. Ltd. in Middletown, where he was employed from 1970 to 1986. He retired when much of the industry relocated overseas, allowing him to enjoy the arrival of eight grandchildren, pick blackberries in his backyard garden, read two newspapers a day, and meet longtime friends for breakfast at Rein’s every Thursday morning.
He was a diehard fan of UConn women’s basketball and followed many of the players as they joined the WNBA or played overseas. He unofficially adopted Dorka Juhásh as a sixth granddaughter.
He is survived by his sister, Evelyn Murray; his children, Robert and his wife, Sylvia; David and his fiancee, Kerin Smollen; and Steven and his wife, Lana; grandchildren Lina, Jenna, Alyssa, Vaughn, Hannah, Jack, Hollyn, and Landon. He was preceded in death by his wife, the Rev. Carol Cordner Howard, in 2000.
All are welcome to join the family at the Ladd-Turkington & Carmon Funeral Home, 551 Talcottville Road (Rt-83) in Vernon on Sunday, February 23, 2025, for a time of visitation from 2-4 pm with a memorial service to begin at 3:30 pm. At the request of the family, the burial will be private in East Cemetery, Manchester. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the HH Franklin Club or the Audubon Society. To leave a condolence, please visit www.carmonfuneralhome.com
January 20, 2025
Roy Franklin Powers, 92, passed away on January 14, 2025. Roy was born to Irene and Llew Powers of DeRuyter, NY on July 23,1932. He graduated from South Otselic High in 1951, then attended Morrisville State in the Auto Technology program.1953 was a banner year: he graduated from college, married E. Mae Martin from Norwich, NY, and then was drafted into the US Army, serving until 1957, including in the Missile/Radar battalion. Returning to CNY, working at Jones and Allen Chevrolet in Whitney Point, and then at his uncle's farm in DeRuyter. By 1962, Roy and Mae and 3 young sons moved to Fabius. Roy ran an Ashland service station in town for some time and went to night school to obtain a teaching certificate as the family had grown by 2 daughters. In the1966 school year he worked as a teaching assistant to Robert Ossont at Fabius Central School. He taught Auto Mechanics and later Auto Body courses for Cortland-Madison BOCES until taking a position with Fabius Pompey Central School teaching Auto Mechanics and Welding until his retirement. Roy and Mae were involved in many antique car clubs which formed lifelong friendships and fun trips during their life together. They led an active church life in the United Methodist and later Fabius Christian Churches. He also served in many capacities on the Fabius Volunteer Fire Dept over many years. Roy taught many young people to build skills in important trades that we all need in life. No matter where he traveled, he always knew someone, and had the most extraordinary memory and gift of gab ! Roy was predeceased by his wife of 62 years, Mae, his brother, Duane Powers, and grandsons Wesley Harridge and Andrew Gosden. He is survived by his brother, Dale (Lorna) Powers of Bradenton, Fla. Children: Steven (Rosie) Powers, Fabius, NY. Donald (Susan) Powers, Loveland, CO. David (Laurie Harridge) Powers, Lafayette, NY. Mary (Joe) Chovan, Cazenovia, NY. Gwen Powers, Syracuse, NY. Grands: Craig (Megan) Powers, Fabius, NY. Melissa (Mark) Wheatley, Lafayette, NY. Jordan (Tara) Conklin, Syracuse, NY. Jonathan (Paige) Powers, DE. Trevor Gosden, Floral Park, NY. Mercury McGraw, Syracuse, NY. Collin McGraw, Syracuse, NY. Shannon McGraw, Weedsport, NY Great Grands: Clint Wheatley, Levi (His birthday buddy!) Wheatley, Christopher Powers, Madison Powers, as well as many cousins, nieces and nephews. A Celebration of Life will be scheduled in springtime in Fabius.
November 22, 2024
William Stever
born October 16, 1932; passed October 23, 2024, just 7 days after turning 92.
Leaves wife, Ellen, son Mark Stever, step daughter Lori, and her husband, Phil Graham.
Bill adored dogs, and became the first animal control officer for Inyo County.
He believed in exercising daily throughout his life, which included: bicycle riding, running 10k's, hiking in the mountains, fishing the high lakes, tennis and golf. His joy was to teach all that had an interest in tennis and golf.
He loved the Owen's Valley, especially Bishop, and never wanted to leave the valley. His thinking was, "We live in the most beautiful place in the world, why would anyone want to leave?".
His true passion was being a Classic Car restorer. He was happiest when restoring what others called, "A pile of junk."
Bill always had a joke to share because he always wanted to make people laugh. He will be missed.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
September 9, 2024
It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of W. Bruce Levey, surrounded by family at Grace Manor, on September 5th, 2024 after a fast-progressing form of Dementia. Bruce is survived by his wife, Amelia (Delle Palme),and son Jeff (Leah Dacey), brother, Barry Prouse (Aline), father-in-law Dominic Delle Palme, brother-in-law, Dave Delle Palme (Jane Boucher). Bruce was pre-deceased by his parents, Bill and Evelyn Levey, mother-in-law (Shirley Delle Palme), sister-in-law, Anna Marie Delle Palme, and his life-long friend/Mentor, Bill Bradley. Bruce was born in Goderich, Ontario and followed his brother Barry to Ottawa to work in the Court Reporting industry. He traveled the great country and abroad in his profession working for the Ontario Human Rights Commission as well as the Mining & Lands Commission. In 1986 Bruce opened up an office in Pembroke, Ontario and traveled the Valley conducting various discoveries and legal proceedings. Bruce had many likes and hobbies over the years but his Harley Davidson motorcycle and 1929 Franklin were dearest to his heart. We hope his last motorcycle ride on September 5th was by far the most memorable one for him.
The family would like to thank the staff at Grace Manor (in particular nurses Peter and Adam) who treated Bruce with respect and dignity. Amelia and Jeff would also like to thank the support given by everyone over the last little while, but special thanks go to the Stewart family, the Dicorato family, Robert Taylor, Steve May and Survivor Ottawa LRG.
There will be a Celebration of Life hosted by the family at 657 Netley Circle, Ottawa, Ontario, on Saturday September 21st, 2024 between 1 and 5. A second celebration of life will be held in Bruce’s home town of Goderich at some point in October where he will be buried at the Maitland Cemetery with his parents.
In lieu of flowers, donations to the Salvation Army (Grace Manor) or the Dementia Society would be greatly appreciated.
"Next to darkness is the light, and when you empty out your grief, you create more room for joy to move in and take its place".
September 5
Kathryn W. Harry, age 86, of Alma, WI died on Monday, September 2, 2024 at Advent Health in Durand. She was the only child born to Melvin and Wilma Mueller. Kathryn attended and graduated from Alma Area High School. On October 17, 1959, Kathryn was united in marriage to Richard Harry at St. Lawrence Catholic Church in Alma. Richard and Kathryn purchased Harold Gustavson’s Studebaker dealership and garage, which later became Alma Motors. They later purchased Willard Breckow’s Homelite chainsaw business, which grew to include Jonsered, Olympic and Stihl chainsaws. At its peak, they were the largest Stihl chainsaw dealer in the Tri-State area of Wisconsin, Minnesota and Iowa. Kathryn retired in 1997. Kathryn enjoyed the many tours she and Richard took in their antique cars and the comradery gained with other car club members. Kathryn loved to bake cookies, especially chocolate chip. She thought the world of her granddaughter, enjoyed dancing, doing word search puzzles and jigsaw puzzles. Kathryn is survived by her children, Gerald Harry and Karen (Mark) Weiss and granddaughter, Mariah Weiss. Besides her parents, Kathryn was preceded in death by her husband, Richard. A visitation will be at Talbot Family Funeral Home in Alma on Saturday September 7, 2024 at 9:00 AM until the time of service at 11:00 AM. A burial will follow at Alma Public Cemetery.
May 27, 2024
Mary Therese Reeve, 85, of Cazenovia, NY, a loving wife, mother, grandmother, and herbalist, passed away surrounded by her family on May 1, 2024. Though born a city girl in Milwaukee on January 7, 1939, to Margaret and Charles Bunnell, Mary embraced country life in upstate New York after moving there with her husband Michael in 1966.
A natural green thumb, Mary operated Hilltop Herbery in Cazenovia for over 30 years and held a popular Mother’s Day sale each year. She was an active member of the Manlius Herb Society and the Herbal Society of America and also provided herbs to local restaurants and Wegmans. She delighted in sharing her vast knowledge of herbs and their lore with others.
A gourmet cook and baker known for using herbs to create delicious flavors, Mary also loved traveling, singing, and music. Nicknamed Puttycat, and like a cat, she seemed to have nine lives, resiliently bouncing back from numerous difficult medical occurrences in her life while always remaining cheerful and optimistic. Mary had a zest for life, cherishing holidays—especially St. Patrick's Day and the 4th of July, which she celebrated exuberantly decked out in festive attire and decorations.
Mary found profound meaning in her Catholic faith as a devoted parishioner of St. James in Cazenovia and Immaculate Conception in Fayetteville.
She is lovingly survived by her husband of 58 years, Michael, daughters Mary Pat Reeve of Arlington, MA, Maggie Tompkins of Wolcott, NY and son Patrick of Cazenovia; and nine grandchildren: Matthew, Michael, Emma, Madeline, Theresa, Simon, Callum, Gwendolyn and Joy.
A sweet, kind soul devoted to her loved ones, Mary will be deeply missed but gratefully remembered for the love and joy she brought to this world. May she now rest peacefully in eternal life.
A memorial mass will be 11:00 am on June 4th ar Immaculate Conception Church, 400 Salt Springs St., Fayetteville.
May 4, 2024
Allan M. Zwaaf, a resident of Hopewell, NJ, passed away on May 3, 2024 at the age of 84.
Allan was born in Trenton, NJ and lived most of his life in Hopewell. A veteran of the U.S. Air Force, Allan worked for many years at Princeton Gamma Tech and later Edmund Scientific. He also worked as a school bus driver in both Hopewell and Montgomery Townships, where he was well-liked by the students he transported. Allan had a lifetime love of horses and antique cars. He competed at many horse shows in both NJ and PA in hunter/jumper classes. Throughout his life, he collected and worked on antique cars and especially enjoyed working on his Franklins. Allan will be remembered for his dry humor and infectious laugh.
Allan is survived by his wife of 53 years Judy Zwaaf, daughter Katrina Zwaaf, and son-in-law Geoffrey Wood.
Funeral services are at 2 PM on May 6 at Highland Cemetery located at 95 Hopewell-Wertsville Rd, Hopewell, NJ 08525.
Memorial contributions are respectfully requested to be sent to the H.H. Franklin Club:
www.franklincar.org/donate.htm
March 26, 2024
My father passed peacefully at a rehab center in Syracuse 2 weeks ago.
(Click for obituary.)
As you all know, he was very fond of the club members and had many great memories of the 20+ years of meets in Cazenovia. He always made a big deal of the banquet which he had me attend as well as other friends and family members that he would invite.
I would like to personally thank you all for being a big part of his life. He was sad that he was not able to attend the last meets.
Michael D. Episcopo
February 14, 2024
Vincent Terry Fitch, 77, passed away gently and gracefully on February 12, 2024 at Rome Health.
He was born in Boonville on July 22, 1946 a son of Harold and Doris Draper Fitch. Terry grew up in Boonville and graduated from Boonville High School, Mohawk Valley Community College and Simmons School of Mortuary Science, Syracuse. He was united in marriage with Mary Ladock in May of 1970. She died in May of 1977. In October of 1978 he was united in marriage with Patricia Buffardi, a blessed marriage of 47 years. Terry operated Fitch Funeral Home until 1997 when the business was sold. He was a school bus driver and transportation director at Adirondack Central School for many years. Terry was a member of the Boonville Elk’s Lodge, Boonville Lion’s Club of many years ago, the Knights of Columbus, the Boonville Chamber of Commerce and Dodge-Pratt-Northam Art and Community Center. Terry served on the Boonville Village Board for 17 years, he was instrumental in rebuilding Erwin Park and the little Village Park after the tornado in 1983. He served as president of Erwin library board for 10 years. While on the board he oversaw the construction of the parking lot and the new entrance at the library. He was also a member of the Franklin Automobile Club, the Pierce Arrow Society, Carousel Organ Association and the Carousel Museum.
He believed a life is determined by the things you love: family, friends and Boonville. Terry enjoyed collecting history of Boonville. He collected antique musical instruments and owned 60 antique automobiles throughout the years and enjoyed going to the Hershey Car Show and numerous other car shows, as well as estate sales. He loved animals and rescued many. He owned 20 racehorses, as well as llamas, alpacas and a ram.
Surviving are his wife, Patricia; children, Melissa Fitch, Jim (Megan Bogacz) Fitch, Stacie (Fred) Bancroft; brother, Harold (Nancy) Fitch; eight grandchildren, Megan and Katie Sheehy, Caleb, Brock and Bryn Fitch, Paxton, Asher and Flora Bancroft; nephews, Darren and Damon Fitch; sister-in-law, Maureen Winney and two loyal friends Cooper and Merwin. He was predeceased by his parents and a grandson, Aidan Bogacz.
Calling hours will be Thursday, February 15, 2024 from 2-7 p.m. at Mills Funeral Home, 301 Post Street, Boonville with a service to follow at 7 p.m. Memorial contributions may be made to the Erwin Library, 104 Schuyler Street, Boonville, NY 13309. For an online message of sympathy please go to www.millsfuneralhomes.com.
October 18, 2023
Albert D. Nippert 87, of Oak Meadows Road, Town of Cobleskill, NY, passed away Monday, October 16th at the home that he loved, in the presence of his wife of 59 years after a prolonged illness.
Al was born October 17, 1935 in Valhalla, New York, a son of George V. and Helen (Merkel) Nippert. He graduated from White Plains High School and would later embark on a career with the General Electric Co. as an electrical technician until his retirement. As a young man, Al became interested in cars which grew into a lifelong passion with a keen eye for quality automobiles to restore, collect, and on occasion, sell. He operated the Imperial Barn LTD where he bought and sold antique cars. He also restored several cars for loyal customers and operated New Era Motors in Cold Spring, NY for many years. He and his wife, Maureen moved to Oak Meadows in the mid 90’s in order to bring his car collection to one location where he tinkered away on his lifelong passion. He and Maureen enjoyed the breathtaking views of the valley and also ventured out in their motorhome to explore other regions in our great land.
Al was a member of several car clubs throughout his life. A few notables are the HH Franklin Club, the Classic Car Club, the AACA (Antique Auto Club of America) and the Schoharie County Car Club. His talents and knowledge of vintage automobiles will be sorely missed in the antique car community.
Survivors include: his wife, Maureen (McLean) Nippert, whom he married September 9, 1964, his sons; Karl W. Nippert (Lynne) of Lagrangeville and Glenn A. Nippert of Atlanta, Georgia, 2 grandchildren; Karlene Nippert and Ryan Nippert. He was predeceased by his two brothers; Victor and Howard Nippert.
A memorial service will be held at a later date in Oak Meadows. For those who wish to remember Al in a special way, in lieu of flowers, can be made to the Schoharie County Car Club, C/O James DeBar, President, 5637 St. Rte.#145, Cobleskill, NY 12043.
September 17, 2023
We sadly note the passing of Neil Sugermeyer, past Club president.
Neil passed away on Friday, September 15, 2023. He was the son of the late George Henry Sugermeyer and Eleanor Gruver Sugermeyer. He is survived by his wife of 52 years, Martha Reese Sugermeyer; daughter, Elizabeth Cara Campbell (Michael); son, Andrew Rolf Sugermeyer (Evelyn); grandchildren Sophie and Michael; brother Robert Sugermeyer (Donna); and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his sister Christine Crowe.
Neil was born in Bronxville General Hospital on December 21, 1939. His family moved to Yonkers, NY where he was raised. In 1944 his sister Chris was born and his brother Bob was born four years later. After high school he attended Young Harris Junior College. Following his graduation, he worked for a year as a painter in an auto repair shop. Then he went to Guilford College where he earned his bachelors degree. After graduation, he joined the Navy and began officer training and training to be a pilot. His first deployment was flying helicopters aboard the USS Bon Homme Richard during the Vietnam War.
After his obligated service, he briefly got out of the Navy but missed flying so he rejoined and was sent to Pensacola Florida as an instructor pilot. He assumed that they were going to have him instructing in helicopters, but they needed instructors in fixed wing and he wound up teaching advanced acrobatics. It was during this time that he met and married Martha Reese. His third deployment was to fly helicopters in Antarctica with research scientists in that very challenging environment. He proudly served for twenty-one years. Following his Navy career, he worked as a house painter for over a decade.
Cars became Neil’s passion in his teen years when he and a buddy bought a Model T and fixed the mechanics so that they could drive it up and down the driveway. His mothers spotted an antique car restoration shop and asked if Neil could come and watch. This was the beginning of a lifelong friendship with Al Nippert. They worked on cars together and traveled to car shows and gatherings for the next sixty plus years. While in college, Neil would write to Al every week telling him how many days until he would be back and Al replied telling Neil which cars he was working on and the other friends who had come to his shop. In 1960 they attended their first Franklin Trek in Syracuse NY. Neil and Marty recently attended his 55th Franklin Trek.
Neil was a very friendly person and the antique car hobby supplied many long term friends for over 70 years. In 1978 the Navy moved him, Marty, and their two children to Virginia. He was deployed aboard the USS Guam for much of the next two years. Somewhere around 1980, Neil and Marty returned to the Trek and also joined Tidewater Region AACA. After a few months in the group, they were helping to plan and prepare club activities. Neil served as president of TRAACA in 1997 and 1998. During that time
Marty agreed to write the monthly club newsletter. Neil really became the editor-in-chief because he needed to correct details about the cars and add a lot of commas. In 2008 Marty’s coeditor, Ivie Lister passed away and Neil took over that position so they did the newsletter for the next five years. Neil also put in decades laying out the field for the local meets. That was a job he began with another very long term friend, Terry Bond. Neil and Terry also went to Pennsylvania together to go antiquing and wind up on the field at the mega car swap meet and show in Hershey PA. Over the decades in the antique car hobby, Neil and Marty have made many long lasting friendships with people around the country and around the world.
September 14, 2023
Donald Francis Taylor, 89, of Milton, DE, formerly of West Grove, PA, passed away on Wednesday, September 6, 2023 at Wilmington Hospital, DE with family by his side.
He was the husband of Mary Jane Woodward Taylor with whom he shared 25 years of marriage.
Born in West Grove, PA, he was the son of the late David Kinney and Virginia Whiteman Taylor.
Don was a graduate of the University of Delaware where he received his engineering degree. He was employed as an engineer for Dupont and Hewlett Packard. Don was also a township engineer and building inspector for many local townships.
He was a member and lay leader of Zoar United Methodist Church, Millsboro, DE. He was also a member of Fort Miles Delaware Historical Society and a lifetime member of the West Grove Fire Company.
Don was an antique car enthusiast, and a member of the Historical and Vintage Car Club of Delaware and the H.H. Franklin Car Club of America. He enjoyed flying his powered parachute and also enjoyed motorcycles, but his family was what mattered most to him.
He is survived by his wife; 11 children, Mary Anne Steel (Richard) of New London, Donald T. Taylor (Marlene) of Cochranville, Joseph E. Taylor (Brenda) of Hawkins, TX, J. Francis Taylor (Michele) of Lincoln University, Kathy Pendleton (Joe) of Souderton, Ruth Aguiar (Ron) of West Grove, Marie Zedalis (John) of Lansford, Daniel E. Taylor (Krista) of New London, Anna Beauchamp (Mike) of Havre de Grace, MD, Thomas P. Taylor (Becky) of Cochranville and Jeanie Mattson (Richie) of West Grove; 29 grandchildren; and 31 great grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his first wife, Shirley Kavanagh Taylor; two children, Patty Jo Lawless and Mike Taylor; two grandsons, Matthew Zedalis and James Lawless, two great grandchildren, Bryson Jones and Taylor Jones; and four siblings, Elizabeth, Dora, David and Jimmy.
Family and friends may call at Edward L. Collins, Jr. Funeral Home, Inc., 86 Pine St., Oxford, PA on Saturday, September 16 from 9-11am. Funeral services will follow at 11 am.
A memorial service will also be held 11 am Saturday, Sept. 30, 2023 at Zoar United Methodist Church, 24463 Gravel Hill Rd., Millsboro, DE, with visitation prior.
Interment will be private.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Don’s memory may be made to The West Grove Fire Company, www.wgfc.org or Zoar United Methodist Church, c/o Carisa Daisey, 24463 Gravel Hill Rd., Millsboro, DE 19966.
Arrangements are being handled by the Edward L. Collins, Jr. Funeral Home, Inc. Oxford, PA. On-line condolences may be made at www.elcollinsfuneralhome.com.
May 9, 2023
Danin Bodnar passed away after a courageous battle with ovarian cancer that was first diagnosed in June 2015. As she passed, Danin was surrounded by her loving husband, children, and grandchildren. She is survived by her husband Ron, son Conrad, daughter Jennifer, and grandchildren Ben, Nick, Zosia, and Zus.
She met her future husband, Ron, at a country dance in October of 1962. They married in 1966 and resided in Edmonton where they raised their family. She was grateful to have spent much time with her grandchildren who loved her dearly. Danin was a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother. Her family was her priority.
Danin was born in Myrnam, Alberta, the oldest of nine children. She graduated from Myrnam high school and continued her education at the Edmonton General Hospital School of Nursing (RN), and then at the University of Alberta, where she achieved both a BScN, and then a Masters in Adult Education. Her employment a Grant MacEwan Community College lasted over 34 years. She loved her many positions within the Nursing Program, but she loved teaching the most, and her caring and exuberant personality fit perfectly for this career.
Danin enjoyed life immensely. Her industrious nature meant she was very busy. She was a joyfully spirited individual, and was always young at heart. She was her childrens, then grandchildrens, biggest fan and enjoyed watching them in their activities and sports. She supported her husband, Ron, in his business and hobby ventures. Philanthropy was an important part of Danin and Ron's life and they hosted countless events at their private museum. Danin would often say, "I enjoyed the events as much as the visitors." She prided herself in supporting many charities in Edmonton, and surrounding area, and devoted many hours to volunteering within the community, her nursing alumni, and PEO sisterhood.
Danin will be lovingly remembered and treasured by her family, her brothers and sisters, and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, aunts, uncles, and friends.
Danin was predeceased by her father Steve, mother Alice, infant brother Ken, and her in-laws John and Rose Bodnar.
Cremation and a small private family service have already taken place. To further honour Danin, a Celebration of Life will be held at her favorite place, the Family Museum, on May 19, 2023. Doors will open at 1pm, with a program beginning at 2pm, and light refreshments to follow.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Alberta Cancer Foundation, the Stollery Children's Hospital, or Little Warriors.
April 7, 2023
Laura Ann Stiles (nee Bernabe), 65, of Barnegat, New Jersey, passed away on April 3, 2023. She was a kind, caring and intelligent woman who had a passion for cooking. Her penne vodka and meatballs were especially enjoyed by her family and friends. She was predeceased by her husband, Mike Stiles; mother, Alice Bernabe (nee Rella); father, Riccardo Bernabe; and Jeff Altmeyer, father of her son.
Retired as a nurse from St. Barnabas Behavioral Health Center in Toms River, Laura spent much of her free time devoted to her lifelong affinity for horses. She loved all animals and, particularly, her two horses (whom she affectionately called her “special boys”), Streaker and Stark. As a skilled rider, Laura won numerous awards and cherished the many special friends she made in her equestrian circle.
Laura is survived by her adoring son, Nick (Jasmine); stepson, Joey (Naysa); stepdaughter, Ashleigh (Devin); sisters, Lisa and Michelle (Waleed); brothers, Michael and Rick (Annie); dear friend, Terri Altmeyer; her loving partner, James Bockin; along with many friends and family.
A celebration of Laura’s life will take place on Saturday, April 15, 2023, at 1:00 p.m. at the Barnegat Fire House on Birdsall Street in Barnegat. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in Laura’s name to the Rutgers Equine Science Center, Administrative Services Building II, 57 U.S. Highway 1, New Brunswick, NJ 08901-8554, https://esc.rutgers.edu/
March 6, 2023
Brendan Thomas Hogan, 84 of Randolph died Saturday, March 4, 2023 after a brief illness, with his family at his side. Brendan was born January 7, 1939 in Brooklyn, NY to Mary Kenny and Edmund Hogan. He was preceded in death by his parents and a brother Peter Edmund Hogan.
Brendan married Patricia Ellen Barry who survives on April 30, 1960 and the couple were lifelong companions for more than 65 years. The couple was blessed with three children; Michael (Susan) of Columbus, OH; Maureen (Walter) Spilsbury of Charlestown, NH; and Holly-Ann (Brian) Hart of Apalachin, NY. He was a proud Poppy to eight grandchildren, a great grandson, and another great grandson on the way. A sister, Jane Dillon of Briarcliff Manor, NY also survives.
Brendan loved collecting and working on his antique cars including a 1930 Franklin and a 1950 Buick, and made car friends throughout the country. He served a term as President of the national H.H. Franklin Club and a term as Vice-President of Antique Automobile Club of America. He was a member of St. Matthew the Apostle Roman Catholic Church in Randolph.
After being honorably discharged from the United States Marine Corps, Brendan spent his career working in information technology for news organizations in New York City including Associated Press, United Press International and retired from NBC Network News as the manager of technical facilities. While with NBC, Brendan travelled throughout the US and the world to design and install technology which brought events such as Olympic Games, papal visits, political conventions and presidential elections to worldwide audiences.
Visitation will be Tuesday, March 7 from 3:00 to 7:00 pm at Tuttle Funeral Home at 272 Route 10, Randolph, 07869. Funeral Mass will be held on Wednesday, March 8 at 10:00 am at St. Matthew the Apostle Roman Catholic Church at 335 Dover Chester Rd., Randolph, 07869.
In lieu of flowers the family would prefer that donations in Brendan’s memory be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital www.stjude.org or 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105 due to the fact that burial will take place at a later date in New York.
December 27, 2022
Philip Lawrence Myers (age 82), of Lehighton, PA, passed away on December 23rd. Phil was born in Bethlehem, PA, on August 20, 1940, to Robert and Jean Myers. He spent his childhood in Coopersburg, PA, graduated from Southern Lehigh High School, and spent four years in the Air Force. Phil was a Master Mason of the Lehighton Lodge.
In 1961, Phil met the love of his life, Carol, at a high school science fair. As he would tell her, he knew immediately that she was the one. The two were engaged on Christmas Eve 1962, moved from Coopersburg to Allentown to Lehighton, and spent 59 wonderful years by each other’s side.
Phil started Blue Mountain Machine in the garage of the family’s first home in Meadowcrest. Phil had always loved tinkering and inventing, and he brought that same devotion to his business every day. He retired in 2020, but could never stay away from the business he ran for 48 years, always popping in with one other idea.
An antique automobile afficionado, Phil was known for his mechanical expertise and restoration artistry. He spent much of his free time working on his cars and making friends over paint jobs, repairing engines, and long drives across the country where he and Carol would meet other enthusiasts for car shows. Along with his antique cars, Phil collected model trains and built layouts.
More than anything else, Phil collected experiences. He and his wife traveled the globe, making friends the world over. He will be missed for his memorable laugh, his way with words, his knife-sharp wit, and the way he filled a room.
Phil is survived by his wife Carol; his children Pamela, Heather, and Phil Jr.; his grandchildren Drake, Ethan, Noah, Annie, Falyn, and Joshua; and his 6 great-grandchildren.
A visitation will be held on Friday, December 30th from 10-12 pm at Schaeffer Funeral Home 3rd and Alum Streets Lehighton, with a Masonic Service to follow at 12 PM, conducted by the Lehighton Lodge 621 F. and A.M. In lieu of flowers contributions may be made to the Franklin Township Fire Company 2440 Fairyland Road Lehighton, PA 18235
November 10, 2022
We sadly note the passing of Robert D. Kern, who passed away on Tuesday, November 8. Kern was 96.
Kern started Generac with five employees in a garage in Wales, Wis. An engineer by trade, he grew Generac into an industry leader by developing new products and innovating in the generator and engine markets.
After nearly five decades of incredible growth and leadership, Kern sold his company in 2006 to focus on philanthropy. Generac subsequently became a public company in 2010 and today is one of the world’s leading companies focused on energy technology-related products and solutions.
In addition to providing opportunities for thousands of employees and their families through his leadership at Generac, Kern was also a strong believer in giving back and making a difference in the community. He and his late wife, Patricia, established the Kern Family Foundation in 1998 with a mission dedicated to enhancing lives by promoting the value of work, developing the formation of good character, increasing educational achievement, and instilling an entrepreneurial mindset. The Kern Family Foundation has donated generously to numerous local organizations in the Milwaukee area, including transformational gifts to the Milwaukee School of Engineering, the Medical College of Wisconsin, and Marquette University’s College of Engineering. In addition to local area giving, the Foundation has been active in supporting many nationwide programs, causes, and organizations focused on initiatives that have long-term, systemic impact. These include generous gifts to create the Mayo Clinic Robert D. and Patricia E. Kern Center for the Science of Health Care Delivery to help improve patient’s health care experiences, as well as the creation of the Kern Entrepreneurial Engineering Network and important education-related funding for programs such as Project Lead the Way.
Bob Kern is responsible for providing the initial funds for the Franklin Museum located on the grounds of the Gilmore Museum in Hickory Corners, Michigan. Bob also donated his personal collection of Franklin automobiles to the Franklin Museum.
Bob Kern is survived by his three daughters, as well as many grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
August 17, 2022
We sadly note the passing of Glenn B. Snyder, 84, of Nazareth, PA, who passed away peacefully on Saturday, August 13, 2022, at Kirkland Village of Bethlehem.
He was the loving husband of Nancy D. (Quier) Snyder for 62 wonderful years. Glenn was born on June 13, 1938, in Bethlehem. Glenn was the owner and operator of Snyders Wood Craft Shop of Nazareth. He was a true wood Craftsman! He made MANY antique automobile steering wheels for ALL types of vehicles for people across the country AND around the world. He was a pioneer in manufacturing and bending wood antique auto parts, all made with his own 2 hands and simple machinery! If it could be built, he would figure out a way to do it. Glenn also worked in maintenance at Bethlehem Steel for over 30 years.
He loved driving around in his 1929 Franklin antique car and admiring all that this Earth has to offer as well as going to Macungie, Hershey and Carlisle antique car shows. And no matter how busy he was, he would help anyone who asked and try to instill some knowledge and wisdom with anyone who would listen.
He was a member of St. Johns Evangelical Lutheran Church of Nazareth. Family and friends of Glenn are invited to a visitation on Saturday, August 20, 2022, from 9:00-11:00 AM at the Joseph F. Reichel Funeral Home Inc., 220 Washington Park, Nazareth, PA 18064. Followed by a Prayer Service at 11:00 AM at the funeral home. Burial will be held at United Methodist Cemetery of Bushkill Twp. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Glenns memory to the HH Franklin Club Inc (his 1929 Franklin seven passenger sedan was his baby) and mail to C/O Mark Chaplin-Treasurer at 50 Barrington St., Rochester, NY 14607.
August 10, 2022
We sadly note the passing of Lynda Johnson, wife of Charles "Chuck" Johnson, long time member and
past club president.
Click here to view Lynda's Obituary. A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, September 10, 2022, at Brandermill Woods Retirement Center, 2100 Brandermill Pkwy, Midlothian, VA 23112.
November 19, 2021
We sadly note the passing of long time Franklin Club member and past president Ed Wyle. More details to follow.
Ed Wyle was my friend for many years and he will be greatly missed. We spent many hours together at Hershey and the Trek. Ed will always be remembered.
Ed Wyle – If you have been following the comments on Facebook, you already know what a great guy Ed was and how much he will be missed. A wonderful friend, fun-loving, great sense of humor, etc. Ed was those things and more to Lee and I. Lee’s friendship with Ed and Barb spanned more than four decades. I only knew them for about 25 years or so. We saw Ed and Barb at least twice a year – at Hershey and the Trek and sometimes a Mid-West Meet when we were able to go. The memories are priceless. So many stories! If Lee didn’t bring a camper to Hershey, no problem – Ed just slept on the field in his truck. One of my favorite stories is the mystery of the brass headlight. One year, Lee came home from Hershey and found a brass headlight rolling around under the seat of his truck. He had just returned from spending the week there with Ed, so he called him to tell him about it, wondering how it got there. Ed finally confessed that he had put it there. Lee took it to Hershey the following year and hid it in Ed’s belongings. That headlight went back and forth from Hershey to Alabama to Hershey to New York for many years! Lee thinks Dick Burnham may have had a hand in the headlight escapade, but the details escape him at the moment. A few years ago, Ed decided to sell his Hershey spaces to Lee, knowing he could use them again at any time.
Ed loved his cars! Over the years, he bought and sold quite a few. You can still see a few of the Franklins with their proud new owners parked on the green at the Trek. He worked for years restoring a 1937 Packard Sedan. He modified it with a Corvette 350 drive line and painted it in his beloved Auburn University colors – blue with orange striping. It is a sight to behold!
Ed was a true Southern Gentleman and we are glad we knew him. We will be eternally grateful that we were able to visit Ed and Barb the weekend prior to his passing. Rest in peace, dear friend. You will forever be in our hearts.
Lee and Sara Schopmeier
August 26, 2021
Eugene “Gene” J. Sundberg, 95, passed away peacefully on August 21, 2021.
Serving as an Entertainment Specialist 442 in WWII, he was a proud U.S Army Veteran. A master of many trades, Gene kept busy as a member of the Antique Automobile Club of America, restoring and driving antique vehicles. He was also a successful owner of his company, Drake Hydraulics, for many years.
Gene leaves behind his son, Joe; daughter-in-law, Julie; grandchildren, Erik (Risa), Dena (Ben), Ross, Doug (Morgan), Will (Lora), Mikaela (Hunter), Gabriela; 10 great-grandchildren, with one on the way, as well as various other family members and friends.
He is preceded in death by his wife, Wini (Walters) Sundberg; son, Steve; daughter, Vicki and his parents, Alfred and Mildred Sundberg.
Funeral Service 11 AM Saturday, Sept. 4 at Gearty-Delmore Plymouth Chapel, 15800 37th Ave N., Plymouth, MN with visitation one hour prior.
Private Interment Ft. Snelling National Cemetery at a later date.
July 23, 2021, 2021
Curtis C. Ackerman Jr, 87, of Burlington Flats, NY passed away Friday July 23, 2021 in Cooperstown, NY.
Curtis was born on June 13, 1934 in Cooperstown, NY the son of the late Curtis C. and Mable Parker Ackerman Sr.
Curtis is survived by his loving wife of 64 years Joan Snyder Ackerman of Burlington Flats, daughters Debra Ackerman of Burlington Flats, Lynn Ackerman of MA, and Susan E. Ackerman of New Hartford, a son Curtis C. Ackerman III of West Burlington and his wife Susan, grandchildren Max Horowitz, Julia Horowitz, Sara Schallert, Dan Schallert, Meagan (Matt) Blankenship, and Samuel (Emily) Curtis, a brother Fred Ackerman of FL, and a sister Elizabet (Herb) Miller of SC. Also surviving are several nieces and nephews.
A 1952 graduate of Edmeston Central School, Curtis attended Hartwick College before returning home to work with his father on the family farm. While in Oneonta, he met the love of his life, Joan Snyder. They married on April 20, 1957 in Chatham, NY. They lived on the family farm, raising their children.
Curtis was well known for his collection of antique cars. He and Joan loved driving and sharing them with friends and neighbors. He was most recognized while driving his Model A’s around the area.
Calling hours were on Tuesday July 27, at the Delker and Terry Funeral Home 30 South Street Edmeston, NY. A graveside committal service followed in Edmeston Union Cemetery. To send condolences, visit www.Delkerterryfh.com, or go to Delker and Terry Funeral Home on Facebook.
May 25, 2021
Richard Allen Harry, 82, passed away on Saturday, May 22, 2021, following a short stay at Bay View Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Red Wing, MN, with additional care provided by St. Croix Hospice.
Born on October 2, 1938, he was the son of the late Rene and Angeline (Foegen) Harry. He attended Deer Creek Grade School and Alma High School, continuing his education at University of Wisconsin-La Crosse. On October 17, 1959, he married Kathryn Mueller at St. Lawrence Catholic Church in Alma Wisconsin.
As a junior in high school Richard was first employed at the gas station and garage in Alma, WI, where the Pier 4 Cafe is currently. Following that he worked for Harold Gustafson at “Gus’s Garage” and then the Alma Dock, by Dairyland Power, where he unloaded coal from barges. He often assisted family members with commercial fishing. Richard worked a short stint with Tri-State Builders before purchasing Harold Gustafson’s Studebaker dealership and garage, which became Alma Motors. He later purchased Willard Breckow’s Homelite chainsaw business, which grew to include Jonsered, Olympic, and Stihl chainsaws. At his peak he was the largest Stihl chainsaw dealer in the Tri-State area (WI-MN-MI). His business also included a wrecker service. Richard retired in 1997.
He enjoyed attending auctions, the Chickasha, Oklahoma swap meet and being a member of several car clubs. He was an avid car enthusiast with a love of collecting antique automobiles and other memorabilia.
Richard is survived by his wife of 61 years, Kathryn Harry; children, Gerald Harry and Karen (Mark) Weiss; and one granddaughter, Mariah Weiss.
A visitation will be held Thursday, May 27, 2021, from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM at Talbot Family Funeral Home, 340 N State Road 35, Alma, WI 54610, with a service at 12:00 PM. Burial will follow at Alma Public Cemetery. Arrangements were entrusted to Talbot Family Funeral Homes. Condolences and memories may be shared with the family at talbotfuneralhomes.com.
February 10, 2021
Charles Richardson (Dick) Moffatt passed away at Kimball Farms on February 6, 2021. Although he lived to be 101 years old, a close family member says “he was like a perpetual 24 year old, always ready for an adventure…always willing to learn something new and yet appreciate the old”. Dick was an avid public servant, chairing the regional school board when Monument Mountain High School was designed and built, and active in Kiwanis, West Stockbridge Congregational Church choir, Wisdom Lodge and the Austerlitz and West Stockbridge Historical Societies. He was a very active member of the H. H. Franklin Club - if Dick wasn’t at community events, you could see him tooting around the Berkshires in one of his antique Franklin automobiles. For most of his working career, you would find Dick at his business Charles H. Baldwin and Sons making extracts from old family recipes, or engaging clients throughout New England and the Tri-State area.
Dick was born on March 30, 1919 in Manchester, New Hampshire. His family has roots in West Stockbridge dating back to the 1870s where his grandfather ran a business on Center Street and Main Street. Dick grew up in Summit, NJ, graduated from Newark Academy and then college at Rensselaer Polytechnic in Troy, NY. He graduated in 1941 with a mechanical engineering degree, and shortly thereafter joined the Merchant Marines, taking voyages to ship supplies to Casablanca, Italy, Persian Gulf and the Philippines during WWII. In 1953 Dick married Elaine Baldwin, also originally from West Stockbridge. Dick and Elaine were married over 50 years, Elaine teaching in Kindergarten in Richmond, and later Home Economics in the Berkshire Hills Regional School system. They traveled extensively through Europe and across the US where they visited most of the presidential libraries. Much loved Elaine died in 2005, and Dick moved his residence to Kimball Farms.
Dick is survived by his five children, Craig, Tricia Gans, Earl, Miles and Melissa Ferrara, daughters-in-law Laurie Norton Moffatt, Jackie Moffatt and Amy Moffatt, and son-in-law Phil Gans. Also survived by seven grand-children, Sara, Mika, Max, Daniel, Hillary, Samantha and Leigh and six great-grand-children Tucker, Henry, Kennedy, Levi, Hattie and Poppy.
Those wishing to, may make donations in his memory to the West Stockbridge Congregational Church. To send remembrances to his family, please go to www.finnertyandstevens.com
January 22, 2021
Clifford O. Stranburg, M.D.
Born November 4, 1936; Jamestown, NY. Died January 16, 2021; Beaverton, OR. 84 Years Old.
Graduated 1954 Jamestown (NY) High School.
Enlisted in United States Navy at age 17 and served as a Sonar-man from 1954 - 1957 primarily on the USS Dashiell.
Attended Allegheny College, Meadesville, PA. Earned a Bachelor of Science degree, graduating in 1961. Lettered in
Football, Basketball and Baseball and participated in the United States Air Force Reserve Officer Training Corp.
Awarded Allegheny College Athlete of the Year and Distinguished Military Graduate of 1961. Commissioned as a 2nd
Lieutenant in the USAF Reserves.
Attended Syracuse University Medical School 1961 - 1965.
Served Residency at Hennepin County Hospital, MN 1965 - 1969.
Attained Medical Doctor Specialty designation and served residency in Urology at Oregon Health and Science University,
Portland, OR 1970 - 1971.
Founded and practiced medicine at the Northwest Urological Clinic PC; Portland and McMinnville, OR 1971 - 2013.
Married for the past 30 years and survived by Julie Olsen Stranburg.
Survived also by his step-son’s family Robert, Chanly and Cody George; and His step-brother Robert Shirley and family.
Cliff will be missed by the hundreds of patients he cared for, by the numerous organizations to which he belonged, and
by those to whom he offered his always carefully considered guidance to.
A consummate listener who never uttered an ill word of any person. He was passionate about history and inanimate
things like Classic Cars, U.S. Civil War history, Juke Boxes and Poetry. He was equally compassionate of all living things
from Newfoundland Dogs, Alaskan Moose, Redwood Sempervirens, Trillium flowers and Mason Bees.
Cliff was both a gentleman and a gentle man - a nurturer and a pot-stirrer who would willingly discuss any subject in
order to continue his life-long education while generously sharing his knowledge with those he met along the way. He
applied the basic precept of the ancient Greek Hippocratic oath of medical practice to how he lived his life: “First Do No
Harm.”
December 8, 2020
Sadly we note the passing of Robert C. Barrett
Of Angola, NY, who entered into rest December 6, 2020 at age 74. Dear husband of Jill S. (Walters) Barrett; loving father of Robert W.S. (Susanne) Barrett and Victoria S. (Ryan) Meister; Grandfather of Natalie and David Meister; brother of the late William F. (Mary Ann) Barrett. Family will be present to receive friends Friday, December 11, from 4-7 PM, at the ADDISON FUNERAL HOME, INC., 262 N. Main St., Angola, NY, where services will follow at 7 PM. In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to the BPO, 786 Delaware Ave, Buffalo, NY 14209.
October 14, 2020
It is with great sadness that we note the passing September 14 of Elizabeth "Beth" Wyle, 47. She did not know a time when there was not a Franklin and Franklin people in her life. She grew up attending the Trek, numerous other Franklin events, and built long term relationships with all who knew her. Beth will be missed in the Franklin Family.
Barb and Ed Wyle
April 3, 2020
We sadly note the passing of past president Carl R. Barker of Falmouth who died Monday March 30, 2020, at home. He was born June 26, 1928, the son of George J.Barker Sr. and Eva Burns Barker. Carl is survived by his loving partner, Barbara Reed, his two sons, Bradford and Christopher, a daughter, Susan Laughlin and her husband, Tim and two granddaughters, Emily and Colleen Laughlin. His sister, Olive, also survives him. Carl’s wife, Nancy, predeceased him in 2008. His brothers Earle and George, as well as his sister Jean also predeceased him.Carl graduated from Deering High School in 1946. After spending a few years in the Army, he attended and graduated from Springfield College in Springfield Massachusetts. He also did graduate work in psychology at the University of New Hampshire.His first career was as a teacher, coach, and guidance instructor at the high school level in both New Hampshire and Vermont. Following that, he moved back to Portland and entered the investment securities business.For the next 40 years he worked in the Portland area assisting his clients with their financial planning needs. Carl was the first person in Maine to attain the certified financial planner designation. For over 25 years he was an active advocate for people with Parkinson’s disease. He served as president of the state of Maine Chapter of the American Parkinson’s Disease Association and was a member of the board of directors and vice president of the Maine Parkinson Society. He was responsible for establishing and maintaining Parkinson’s support groups throughout the state.He also volunteered as a “practice patient” for medical students at Maine Medical Center and the University of New England. He was a member of the medical center’s shared decision making task force. For over 50 years he was an active member of many antique car clubs and was particularly active and former president of the H.H. Franklin Club. Throughout his life he enjoyed restoring and driving many different antique cars. He was an amateur musician and was known throughout the area for his harmonica playing and teaching. He enjoyed writing short stories and poetry and leaves behind his life story in the form of numerous vignettes and poems written throughout his lifetime.At his request there will be a family service on the shore of Casco Bay this summer. Arrangements are under the care of Funeral Alternatives, 46 Bath Road, Brunswick, Maine, Condolences may be expressed at www.funeralalternatives.net In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to: Hospice of Southern Maine, 180 US Rt. 1, Scarborough, ME 04074
February 29, 2020
We sadly note the passing of John Clayton “Jack” Lanford, 89, of Roanoke, Va., who died on Friday, February 21, 2020, after a period of declining health. He was born on June 13, 1930, in Cumberland, Md., a son of the late Stanard F. Lanford Sr. and Beatrice Compton Lanford. Known for his generous spirit and kind nature, Jack will be sorely missed by a legion of family and friends.
He was raised mostly in West Virginia, where his father worked in highway construction. The seeds of Jack’s future career were sown as he accompanied his father to job sites. He started to work in the summer of 1944 when he was 14 years old, working on railroad relocation jobs in Kentucky, West Virginia and Virginia. The family later moved to Roanoke where Jack played football for William Fleming High School. He received a football scholarship to attend Virginia Military Institute (VMI) where he recalled many wonderful football stories and made lifelong friends.
Jack received an engineering degree from VMI in 1952 and served as an officer in the United States Army Corps of Engineers during the Korean conflict. He joined his father’s construction firm in 1953 when they had a contract to build a portion of the original West Virginia Turnpike. Upon the death of their father, Jack and his brother, Stan, took over the company and with the help of their mother and other loyal employees began to grow the business, changing its name to Lanford Brothers Company in 1960. Jack and Stan were not only brothers and business partners, but lifelong best friends who enjoyed each other’s company immensely. It was part of the reason Jack said that going to work never felt like a job to him. He loved the work and the friends made along the way. He and Stan jointly authored a book about their company and the people who made it a labor of love. In 1985, they bought an interest in Adams Construction Company of Roanoke, where Jack served as CEO until his retirement in 2006.
He served in the leadership of the transportation industry in various capacities over the course of his career. Jack was president of the Virginia Road and Transportation Builders Association in 1977 and president of the contractors’ division of the American Road and Transportation Builders Association (ARTBA) in 1981. In 1991, he served as chairman of ARTBA, as well as of The Road Information Program (TRIP), both based in Washington, D.C. That year, he also served as president of the Virginia Asphalt Association, based in Richmond, Va. A year later, Jack received the ARTBA Award, the association’s highest honor, for his work toward passage of landmark highway investment legislation.
As part of his service to ARTBA over the years, Jack and his brother, Stan, created a scholarship to fund education for children of parents killed on the job during construction projects. To date, nearly $600,000 has been awarded to 80 students, and the scholarship continues. In recognition for all that they had done for the industry, in 2004 ARTBA named both brothers to its list of America’s Top 100 Private Sector Transportation Design and Construction Professionals of the 20th Century.
Away from work, Jack kept busy with his collection of Franklin automobiles. He was an avid student of Virginia history, with particular interest in Stonewall Jackson and the Civil War. During the early 2000s, he served on the board of the Stonewall Jackson House in Lexington. In addition, he was an active member of Christ Episcopal Church in Roanoke for many years.
Jack also found time to render service to his alma mater. From 1994 to 2002, he was a member of the VMI Foundation’s Board of Trustees. He also endowed a scholarship to be awarded to a member of VMI’s football team. In 2005, he was awarded the VMI Foundation’s Distinguished Service Award in recognition for his service to the Institute.
Jack is survived by his wife, Linda of Roanoke; two daughters, Sarah L. Myers of Concord, Mass., and Mary L. Price (Tim) of Lexington; and a stepdaughter, Julie Bauer (David) of Alexandria. He was “Granddaddy Jack” to his six grandchildren, Steven Myers, Elizabeth Myers, Virginia Price, Elaine Price, Davis Bauer and Joshua Bauer. He is also survived by a brother, Stanard F. Lanford Jr. (Elise) of Roanoke; a sister, Alice L. Parcell (Lloyd) of Locust Dale; and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.
The family would like to thank Friendship Wellness and Heartland Hospice for their loving care.
A Memorial Service was held on Thursday, February 27, 2020, at Christ Episcopal Church, in Roanoke.
Memorial gifts may be made to the VMI Foundation, P.O. Box 932, Lexington, VA 24450; Christ Episcopal Church, 1101 Franklin Road, SW, Roanoke, VA 24016; or to Boys Home, 306 Boys Home Road, Covington, VA 24426. Online condolences may be expressed at www.oakeys.com.
February 27, 2020
We sadly note that Donald Wesley Ellis age 86 of Russellville, KY passed away February 14, 2020 at his residence. Donald was born January 11, 1934 in Guthrie, OK to the late Collie Ellis and Jennie Seaman Ellis. He retired as a professor at the Memphis State University and enjoyed collecting antiques. He is preceded in death by his wife Caroline Mary Ellis.Donald is survived by his son Adam Wesley Ellis of Russellville, KY, and two grandchildren.
November 19, 2019
Walter "Wally" E. Miller, 66, died late Friday, November 15, at Francis House as a result of Pancreatic Cancer. He had been a life resident of Syracuse. He was known by car enthusiasts around the world for his massive collection of original automobile literature. His family includes his wife Jane Verostek, their daughters Minerva and Octavia, his mother Susan, and his sister Amy. Funeral services and burial will be private for the immediate family only. Walter will be buried beside his father in the Temple Concord section of Woodlawn Cemetery.
August 24, 2019
Philip J. LoPresti, Sr., 88, of Bethel, beloved husband of Jean (Grammatico) LoPresti, died peacefully at his home on Saturday, August 24. He was born in Georgetown on January 11, 1931, son of the late Pasquale and Sarah (Scrofani) LoPresti.
Phil was a veteran of the Korean War, proudly serving with the United States Army. Upon returning from the Army, Phil worked as a foreman for Castro Convertible, and went on to own and operate Danbury Carting for 38 years. He was a member of the VFW and the NRA.
In his younger years, Phil was a professional boxer under trainer, Cus D'Amato. Phil was a member of the antique auto club of America and the Franklin club. He enjoyed playing the guitar, and listening to music. He was happiest when surrounded by his loved ones, and traveling to Italy, especially Sicily to visit family.
August 8, 2019
We sadly note the passing, on July 31, of Franklyn (Frank) B. Hantak who was reunited with his wife, best friend, partner and angel Garnet in heaven. Frank was born November 22, 1938 in Cleveland, OH to Frank and Angela Hantak.
Frank entered the Army National Guard in May of 1961 to serve the country he loved. After leaving the National Guard he moved to Elk Grove, IL where he went on to proudly raise his family before retiring to AZ in 2000. Frank had a passion for antique cars, especially Franklin Automobiles. He immensely enjoyed restoring and showing his collection over the years. His children have many memories of time spent with their dad attending car shows, cleaning and polishing the cars. Frank and Garnet were active members in the Franklin Automobile Club and considered fellow members some of their best friends.
Frank will be remembered by his children, Phil (Karen) of IL, Greg (Denise) of TX, Sandy (Steve) Tengler of IL. brothers, Tom Hantak of WV, Les (Carol) Hantak of OH, Sister In-Law-Ruby Lane of WV, brother-in-laws Pete Teel of OK and Norman Teel of MI. Frank leaves behind 10 precious grandchildren, Roger L. Harte Jr. ( Amy Parkey) of MI, Sherie (Daniel) Smith of MI, Rick Harte (Kira Timmins) of MI, Raelene (Brian) Lorenz of PA, Jessica Hantak (Jon Lindsay) of TX, Jordan Hantak of IL, Brandon Tengler of IL, Ryan Hantak of CO, Brittni Tengler of IL, Sarah Hantak of TX, along with 11 great grandchildren, Brittney, Dakota, Brianna, Jacob, Dillon, Elleonna, Mason, Keith, Noah, Savana and Luke of MI, and great, great grandson Caleb of MI.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Garnet, parents Frank and Angela Hantak, daughter Donna J. Harte, son-in-law Roger L. Harte Sr. and great granddaughter Destiny Smith.
The family wishes to extend a special thank you to the Golder Ranch Fire Department, Pima Heart, Senior Home Care and Casa de la Luz Hospice for the care and compassion shown to Frank and his family over the past several months.
In honor of Frank’s wishes, no services will take place. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in memory of Frank to the Automotive Restoration Technology program at McPherson College in McPherson, Kansas.
July 18, 2019
We sadly note the passing of Scott R. Dwyer, Ph.D., 58, who died on July 15. Scott died in an accident at his home.
His funeral will on Monday, July 22, at the Chapel + Cultural Center, 2125 Burdett Ave, Troy, NY, (518) 274-7793]. His body will be received at 9:30 AM, with visitation until 10:45 AM. The Liturgy of Christian Burial will follow at 11:00 AM. Internment to follow at a place and on a date to be determined.
Immediately following the liturgy there will be a “pot-luck” reception at the Chapel. Those wishing to assist in the reception should contact Fran Hyde at 518-271-7030 or lighthousetroy1@aol.com
July 13, 2019
Eddy Ward Whitcomb, 91, of Brookline, died on July 13, 2019, in his home. Born in Nashua on March 12, 1928, he was the son of Harlan and Sarah Jane (Ward) Whitcomb. He lived on his family's homestead throughout his life. Eddy graduated from Milford High School.At a young age, he operated the family's grocery store and eventually built and operated Whitcomb's Ice Cream for 23 years. Eddy was always an entrepreneur. After he sold the restaurant, he became a real estate broker. He earned the Realtor of the Year award for his hard work. He owned and operated several local businesses.
Eddy served his community for many years. He was a member of the board of selectmen, school board, and planning board. He was a volunteer firefighter for the Brookline Fire Department for 26 years. Eddy donated the Vietnam and Korean War monument to the town in 1990. He was proud that he was named Brookline's Citizen of the Year.
Eddy was a member of the Benevolent Masonic Temple for more than 50 years and a 32-degree York Rite Freemason. He was a director and the national representative for the Royal Order of the Jesters of New Hampshire. He served as the Potentate for the Bektash Shriners in 2010. He was the recipient of the John Sullivan Medal. Eddy's passion was volunteering every Tuesday at the Shriners Hospitals for Children in Boston, up until his death. His wife and he volunteered for more than 29 years. He was a member of the board of governors for the Shriners Hospital and Shrine Maple Sugar Bowl football game.
June 14, 2019
We sadly note the passing of Jill Ann Larrick who died peacefully in her sleep early in the morning of May 15. She and her husband, Rick, have been residents of Fairbanks, Alaska, for the past dozen years and frequent visitors for many more. Jill is survived by her husband of nearly 49 years, Carl Richard (Rick) Larrick; son, Carl Andrew Plumb-Larrick, of Cleveland, Ohio, and his wife, Abigail, and children Levi (12) and Rosie (7); and by Christopher Richard Larrick and his wife, Heather Krawiec, and their son, Quetzal (20), of Fairbanks. Jill is also survived by brothers Jan Sprinkel in Annapolis, Maryland, and Jay Sprinkel in Sarasota, Florida.
Jill was born Sept. 3, 1947, to Melvin P. Sprinkel and Grace I. Sprinkel (Arthur), and grew up in New Bremen, Ohio, until attending Miami University in Oxford, Ohio, where she earned a Bachelor of Science in education 50 years ago this spring. She held a teaching certificate in special education. Jill and Rick met at Miami and were married Aug. 15, 1970, in New Bremen by Jill's grandfather, Rev. E. J. Arthur. Jill was devoted to her husband, her two sons, and later to her grandchildren.
Jill's warm, welcoming, curious and giving personality and intelligence was a blessing to her friends and family. She was always accepting, always loving - and always game for new adventure even when held back by physical limitations. Generations of family and friends were warmed by her gifts of hand-knit sweaters and baby blankets. A generous and thoughtful friend to adults, Jill was also magical with children and was deeply cherished - as a parent, grandparent, teacher or friend - to those lucky enough to know her.
Before Jill and Rick retired to Fairbanks, Rick's career in the paper industry took them to St. Cloud, Minnesota; Escanaba, Michigan; Park Falls, Wisconsin; Hawkinsville, Georgia; Kalamazoo, Michigan; Atlanta; and Astoria, Oregon. Everywhere she lived, Jill became active in the community and church, often through teaching or child care roles. She was a warm and supportive friend to everyone with whom she became close, and always there to help in every group or organization she supported. Here in Fairbanks, Jill and Rick were active members of the Vernon Nash Car Club, participating in most local and long-distance tour events in their antique automobiles - most often their distinctive blue-and-white 1955 Buick.
Jill was interred at Northern Lights Cemetery, where a private ceremony for family was held.
June 11, 2019
Pierre Flamier Lavedan, 84, of Pocatello, Idaho, died peacefully, surrounded by his family, on Tuesday June 4, 2019 at University of Utah Hospital in Salt Lake City.
Pierre was born July 19, 1934 in New York City to Pierre and Catharine (Downey) Lavedan. He met Susan Faust in Houston and they married in November 1975, blending their families and spending 43 wonderful years together.
Pierre was a 1952 graduate of Portsmouth Abbey (high school), Portsmouth, RI. He went on to graduate from Harvard University in 1958 (class of ’56) with a degree in Economics. During the Korean War, Pierre interrupted his studies to join the Army in September 1953, serving in Japan in the American Graves Registration Group. Upon graduation, Pierre worked in sales for the M.W. Kellogg Company, Brown and Root and Bechtel, his career taking him around the globe. His “sunset” assignment took him and Susan to Italy for four years where he oversaw the construction of a power plant built on the island of Sardinia. Upon retirement almost 20 years ago, Pierre and Susan retired to Pocatello to be near family.
Pierre enjoyed music, everything from classical to country, which filled their home every day. He was an avid reader and a great storyteller. His favorite hobby involved his two antique automobiles. He acquired his first Franklin while in college. From that time forward he was hooked. He joined the H. H. Franklin Club in the 1960’s and later the Classy Car Club in Pocatello.
Pierre is survived by his beloved wife Susan; his three children, Pierre J. Lavedan (Anna), Charlotte Williams (Larry), and John Lavedan (Michelle); ten grandchildren and three great grandchildren; his sister Genevieve Ubel and many nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents and his sister Denise.
The funeral Mass will be held at 10:00 a.m.on June 18 at Holy Trinity Church in West Harwich, Massachusetts with the Rev. John Ubel officiating. Burial with military honors will immediately follow at Island Pond Cemetery, Harwich, Massachusetts.
The Lavedan family wishes to extend their gratitude to all physicians and hospital staff at Portneuf Medical Center and the University of Utah Medical Center for their care.
Donations in Pierre’s name can be made to the American Cancer Society.
April 10, 2019
We sadly note the passing of Bruce J. Lehr of Southold, NY who passed away peacefully at his home April 8, 2019. He was 81. He was born January 23, 1938, to Margaret (Smith) and David Lehr.
Bruce served in the military for two years, then became a mechanic for Tryac Truck and Equipment and later at Southold Town Highway Department. He was a 56-year member of Southold Fire Department and a longtime member of the H.H. Franklin Car Club. He enjoyed restoring, driving and showing his antique car collection.
Bruce was predeceased by his brother, Barry, in 2016. He is survived by his sister-in-law, Beverly; his niece, Jean Walters (Louis); his great-nephew, David Kramkowski (Carolyn); his great-niece, Kristin Witczak (Christopher); and his great-great-nieces and -nephews, Kaitlin, Blake, Natalie, Madison and Lukas.
Services will be held in the summer of 2019.
Memorial donations may be made to Southold Fire Department.
February 4, 2019
We sadly note the passing of Joan Doman. Joan was the wife of Dave Doman and was a long-time friend of the HH Franklin Club, which seems to have been the one exception to her rule at home, "No car talk allowed." (Except, apparently, for Franklins and the Franklin Club.) She had many friends in the club and attended many Treks with Dave and continued those friendships long after his death in 1987.
Joan was born in East Syracuse, NY, on April 3, 1925. Her love of the outdoors began at a young age when her father took the family on many outings for swimming in nearby Green Lake. Her love of music began as her mother taught her piano, which she played the remainder of her life. Joan became a nurse after studying at Syracuse University and she worked at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, MN. She left that much loved position in order to take advantage of an opportunity to visit her sisters, who were working in Berlin after World War Two. On her return to New York, she met and married David Doman, to whom she was married for 37 years. They moved to Ann Arbor, MI in 1956 where they raised their four children.
Joan played tennis into her 80s and piano into her 90s. She loved to garden and enjoy the natural world. Joan had a love of adventures large and small, including the opportunity for the family to live in Australia for three years. She was often found volunteering at the Matthaei Botanical Gardens, teaching school children about the natural world around them, or taking Project Transition residents on outings. She influenced the lives of those around her through her quiet example of generosity and good. Most of all she loved being with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Joan was preceded in death by her husband, David Doman, and is survived by her four children, Mark (Jane Allen), Brad (Fran Doman), Sara (Frank Wesser), all of Ann Arbor, and Shelley (Dave Herrington) of Port Austin, MI; her sister Vanne (Bob Cowie); nine grandchildren and 4 great-grandchildren. A celebration of her life is planned for April 27, 2019 at the Ann Arbor Unitarian Universalist Church. Donations in her memory may be made to Legacy Land Conservancy
(legacylandconservancy.org) or Packard Health
(packardhealth.org).
January 26, 2019
We sadly note the passing of Ed English. Wallace Edward English, known to all as Ed, passed away in his sleep in San Luis Obispo on December 4, 2018 after a short cardiac illness. He was 93. Ed was born in Westwood California in 1925. Ed served in the Royal Canadian Air Force starting in 1942 as a Wireless Aerial Gunner flying combat missions in Avro Lancasters. He then joined the United States Air Force as a Staff Sergeant in 1948, one of a few having the right to wear Canadian Wings on his USAF uniform. He completed USAF Officer Candidate School 49B in 1949 earning the rank of 2nd Lieutenant. He Retired in 1968 from USAF Strategic Air Command as Lieutenant Colonel after 21 years.
Ed attended California Polytechnic State University San Luis Obispo receiving a BS in Industrial Technology and an MS in Education. Ed taught IT at Cal Poly for five years. He was then Division Chairman for the Cuesta College San Luis Obispo Engineering and Technology Division for 23 years. Most of that time he was an electronics teacher, the position he cherished the most. He retired from Cuesta in 1995 though he continued part time as Faculty Emeritus.
Ed was preceded in death by his wife of 48 years, Audrey June English (McKenzie). He is survived by daughter Patricia Reimann, son Gary English, grandsons Edward English and Andrew English.
Ed was very active with many interests and many collaborations and many friends. He was deeply involved in genealogical research. Ed was an Amateur Radio Operator with the call sign W6WYQ. He started with a keen interest in Crystal radios at about age 10 and joined the Amateur Radio Relay League in 1947. He was a frequent operator using Morse Code on the High Frequency bands. He performed antenna research and development including pioneering work with the Directional Discontinuity Ring Radiator with papers published in both QST and 73 Magazine. He was a close friend with Clifford Buttschard and the two helped found the Cal Poly CubeSat program and helped establish the satellite laboratory there. He was an avid automobile historian and collector of a variety of antique automobiles. Ed was a member of many organizations including The American Legion, the Native Sons of the Golden West and the 902 Wing Royal Canadian Association. He was keen with photography, astronomy, gardening, hiking and very much with fishing. He was generous donor to many causes, especially those benefiting youth.
January 16, 2019
We sadly note the passing of Garnet Hantak. On Sunday, January 13, 2019, Garnet T. Hantak, wife, mother, grandmother and sister, passed away peacefully at home in Saddlebrooke AZ at the age of 86 years. Garnet will be forever remembered by her husband and best friend of 46 years, Frank B. Hantak, and their precious children.
Garnet was born in Keeneys Creek, West Virginia on May 2, 1932 to Pete and Lora Pearl (Hunt) Teel. At the young age of 18 she and her oldest daughter Donna moved to Cleveland OH where she worked at General Electric for many years before leaving in early June, 1973, after meeting her sweetheart. Garnet moved to Elk Grove IL and married her best friend on July 7, 1973 where they spent 30 wonderful years with their children, before moving to Tucson AZ.
Merchandise manager for the Franklin club for 20 plus years, she spent many years traveling to Las Vegas, Hershey, Pennsylvania, Iowa, Cazenovia, New York, and made many dear friends along the way.
No services will take place, honoring Garnet’s last wishes.
October 24, 2018
Robert "Bob" James Ullery, from Tannersville, N.Y. passed away on August 16, 2018, in Medina. He graduated from Oswego State Teachers College (now S.U.N.Y. at Oswego) in 1951 and completed graduate school there in 1953. Robert had previously served as a master sergeant in the U.S. Army from 1945 to 1948 serving in the post war occupation forces. It was there that he met and married his beloved wife, the late Ursula Margaret Kampe Ullery (d. July 5, 2002). Subsequent to her death in 2002, he enjoyed travel and companionship with the late Helga Vaishvila. He was a dedicated educator serving in a variety of roles as an industrial arts teacher, assistant superintendent of schools, and retired as a supervisor of industrial arts education at New York State Education Department. In 1967, while on a leave of absence from New York State, he served under President Lyndon Johnson and Robert Sargent Shriver to help establish the Job Corps Training Centers. He was instrumental in the founding of the Plastics Education Foundation where he worked with industry leaders in the development of education curriculum, opportunities and resources. In retirement, he continued to serve as a mentor in music education through his creation and support of the Ullery Memorial Music Fund which provides band scholarships for high school music students in Tannersville. His dedication to education continues in death by offering his remains for the furtherance of education.
Robert had many interests and hobbies including owning and operating a Christmas tree farm, leading the support crew for hot air balloon flights, church choir member/director, woodworker, builder, tool collector, antique automobile enthusiast, avid traveler and a passionate musician. He played in bands throughout the country and was a member of The Medina Community Band, The Medina Symphony Orchestra, Windjammers Unlimited, The Association of Concert Bands, The John Philip Sousa Foundation and many others. He founded The Memorial Concert Band of Colonie in Colonie in 1999. He had recently returned from a trip to France where he was honored to be selected to lay a wreath at The Normandy American Cemetery, the same cemetery where he had participated in the consecration ceremony in 1947 while a member of the HQ Band-Europe.
He was preceded in death by his brother, Charles Ullery (d. October 12, 1991). Robert is survived by his sons, James Karl Ullery (Joanne) and Kenneth Robert Ullery (Eunice); sister, Charlotte Ullery Hill; grandchildren, Scott Ullery, Amanda Ullery Pangburn, Christopher Ullery, and Caitlin Ullery Sheridan as well as four great- grandchildren. He was a member of Sharon Center United Methodist Church. In lieu of flowers, Robert had requested that donations be made to the Sharon Center United Methodist Church.
October 6, 2018
We sadly note the passing of Arnie Christensen on October 4, 2018.
I am sorry to report that my father, Arnie Christiansen, passed away at home on October 4 after a fall. He turned 89 on September 21. I was with him, as I was helping him get ready to go to what he had decided would be his last Hershey.
He and my mother, Dot, who passed away in November, 2016, were active members of the Club starting in 1970. He was part of the Trek registration team for 30 years! Arnie was always the one to show you to your room, escort you to where you needed to be and find the right person for the task at hand. We heard more than once that Arnie was the one person who made new Trekkers feel like part of the group from day one.
Susan Roberts
Arnold B. (Arnie) Christiansen passed away on October 4, 2018, at the age of 89. His daughter Susan Roberts was with him. He was married for 64 years to Dorothy May Tutein and passed away 1 year and 11 months to the day after her.
Born in Lynn, MA, graduated from Lynn English in 1947, then Franklin Institute in Boston. U.S. Navy Veteran.
Goffstown, NH, ran Goffstown Esso and Christiansen’s Sunoco from 1960-1979.
Active in Freemasonry for over 68 years – Lynn, MA: DeMolay Chapter, was Master Councillor. Recipient of Degree of Chavalier and Cross of Honor. Goffstown, NH: Member of Bible Lodge #27, Master in 1974. Dad Advisor of the DeMolay chapter for 10 years. Tamworth, NH: Member of Ossipee Valley Lodge #74, where he was Master.
A long time auto enthusiast, Arnie was a member of many local and national car clubs. He and Dot had been “on the field” selling car related items at the AACA Fall Hershey meet starting 49 years ago – this year would have been Arnie’s 50th.
Of course, his favorite car and club was The H. H. Franklin Club, Inc. The first Franklin in the family was a 1904 purchased in 1905. Franklin was the family car until the 1930’s. The first Trek that Arnie attended was in 1969 to make sure “it was OK for the family”. The next year, Arnie, Dot and “Susie" attended the first Trek in Cazenovia. Over the years, Arnie’s father, Arnold, Sr, and Dot’s father, Bert, were at the Trek. Dot, Arnie and "Sue" ran the national Franklin Trek in 1974-75. He was President of the Club in the late 1970’s. He and Dot became registrars for the meet starting in 1988. They received the Franklin Club Service Award in 1996.
The family thanks Tamworth EMT’s and Tamworth Police for their kindness during this time.
Arnie is survived by his daughter Susan Roberts and her husband David, grandson Marshall, and cousin Ruth Christiansen.
In lieu of flowers, please make memorial donations to Evergreen Place, (NH MasoniCare), 813 Beech St., Manchester, NH 03104, a non-profit assisted living community. If you are interested in performing community service hours in memory of Arnie, please call Evergreen Place at 603-669-7361 for further information. A fund to help returning Franklin Trek scholarship recipients return to the Trek for a second year will be established in the future.
Calling hours will be Saturday, October 27, 2018, from 1:00pm – 3:00pm at Lord Funeral Home, 50 Moultonville Road, Center Ossipee, NH. Funeral services, including Masonic Service will be at 3:00pm. Interment will be at the Veteran’s Cemetery in Boscawen, NH, at a later date.
If you wish to express a condolence or share a fond memory, please visit, www.lordfuneralhome.com
October 1, 2018
We sadly note the passing of Chet Zimmerman on September 21, 2018. Respecting his request, there will be no services. An article will follow in the Air Cooled News.
July 27, 2018, 2018
Russell Laidlaw. 
Russ passed peacefully at his home on July 23, 2018, at age 91. Survived by sons; Jeff (Latoya) Makeham of GA and Gordie (Sue) Laidlaw of Geneseo; grandchildren, Vanessa, Travis, Trayvan, Trionda, Kyle, Kari, and Jake. Also survived by several cousins and friends.
Russ was born on April 10, 1927 in Rochester, NY to parents George and Marion (Batchellor) Laidlaw. He graduated from Geneseo High School and later served our country in the US Navy from 1945-1946. Russ attended Cornell University graduating with a degree in Electrical Engineering. He worked at General Motors in Rochester, NY retiring after 33 years of service. Russ was a member of the Honeoye-Hemlock American Legion Post 1278, the Hemlock Fair Board of Directors, and was a member of many collector car and tractor organizations.
Friends may call on Friday, July 27th, from 10am-11am at the Kevin W. Dougherty Funeral Home Inc., 21 Big Tree Street, Rte 15 and 20A, Livonia, NY where his funeral service will be held following calling hours at 11am. Burial, Mumford Rural Cemetery, Mumford, NY with military honors. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made in his memory to the Central Presbyterian Church, 31 Center Street, Geneseo, NY 14454 or the Honeoye-Hemlock American Legion Post 1278, 4931 County Road 36, Honeoye, NY 14471. To send a condolence or share a memory please visit: www.doughertyfuneralhomes.com
June 17, 2018
Eugene (Gene) Klineburger, born April 27, 1919, passed away at the age of 99 on May 26, 2018.
When Gene was 15, he lost sight in one eye as a result of another boy shooting at him with bird shot. That didn't show him down and, in fact, later he learned to fly and got his pilot's license. He also had a life-long interest in antique cars. His first endeavor was to take a 1922 Model T Ford, remove the body and make it into a "strip down", a forerunner to an early hot rod. This love of cars resulted in his avocation of collecting horseless carriages and classic cars throughout his adult life. He was a life member of the Horseless Carriage Club, Mercedes-Benz Club, Franklin Club, and Classic Car Club.
Gene's father died during the Great Depression and Gene, at 16, began work for the mines to keep the family going in Bisbee. When WWII broke out, Gene joined the Army and became a Military Police Escort Guard, watching over German and Italian prisoners. While serving near Ogden, Utah, Gene met his future wife, Betty Thurman, at USO dances and they were wed in 1944.
After the war and Gene's honorabel discharge from the Army, they moved to Tucson, Arizona where they built a home and began their family of three children. He worked for Tucson General Electric as an electrician. They moved to Bellevue in 1954 where he joined his brothers, Bert and Chris, in working for, and later purchasing, Jonas Bros. Taxidermy of Seattle, a world-renowned company. The brothers quickly expanded the business to include fur tanning, fur garment manufacturing, and travel. After buying the company, they changed the name to Klineburger Brothers Worldwide Travel.
One of Gene's favorite activities was hunting and conducting business in Alaska's Arctic region. He and Betty had many hunting and travel adventures around the world, including Africa, Thailand, India, and Alaska and met many fascinating people and digitaries.
In 1970 they bought a former chicken ranch on 5 acres near Pine Lake, Issaquah, built a home and 8-car garage for his antique cars. They lived there until Betty's death in 2008, after 64 years of marriage. Gene continued to live in Issaquah before moving to Lynnwood 3 years ago.
Gene is survived by his daughters Dianna (husband Gene Snidarich), Judy (husband Kim Simonelli) and son Lloyd (wife Jan), brother Chris (wife Grace) and numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren.
After a week of telling his stories one last time to many family and friends who visited with him, he passed away surrounded by family on Saturday, May 26. He was buried at Tahoma National Cemetery. If you chose, donations in the memory of Gene may be made to a charity of your choice.
Published in The Seattle Times on June 10, 2018
May 6, 2018
Roland P. “Rollie” Kemp, 93, passed away Saturday (May 5, 2018) in Williamsport, Md., at Homewood at Williamsport. Mr. Kemp was born on June 20, 1924 to Mark and Ethel (Clair) Kemp. He attended Andover Central School and afterward joined the Navy where he trained as an electrician and went on to serve in the Pacific Theater during World War II. Rollie was trained at Kansas City School of Watchmaking in Kansas City, Mo. 
On July 14, 1951, he married Patricia A. Nobles at the Andover Methodist Church, who predeceased him on February 8, 2015.
Rollie served as the Andover mail carrier for the United States Postal Service for most of his working career. He previously owned and operated Rowland Kemp Jewelry Store in Wellsville.
Rollie is survived by two daughters, Barbara Jean (David) Kemp of Johnson City and Anne Marie (Daniel) Russell of Williamsport, Md.; two grandchildren, Samantha Jean Russell and Andrew Kemp Russell; and several nieces, nephews and cousins.
Mr. Kemp was a member of the Antique Automobile Club of America, and was the Founding Father of the Chemung Valley Region of AACA. He was also a member of the Horseless Carriage Club of America, the H. H. Franklin (Auto) Club and the Andover Masonic Lodge. Rollie was also an unofficial member of the Wellsville Coffee Club. Patricia shared his hobbies with him as she was also a member of the automobile clubs and they attended the many events together.
Visitation will be held on Tuesday from 2–4 and 6-8 p.m. at Baker-Swan Funeral Home in Andover. The funeral service will be on Wednesday at 10:00 a.m. at the funeral home with Rev. Peggy Knopf officiating. Online condolences may be offered at www.baker-swan.com.
Memorial contributions in Rollie’s name may be made to the Hart Comfort House of Allegany County, 141 East State Street, Wellsville, NY 14895 or Cancer Services of Allegany County, 100 South Highland Street, Wellsville, NY 14895.
April 3, 2018
Allan P. Finseth, 78, of rural Augusta, passed away Saturday, March 31, 2018 at his home in the loving care of his family and St. Croix Hospice.
Allan, son of Arnold and Pearl (Growrud) Finseth was born July 25, 1939 in Eau Claire. He was raised in Eau Claire where he became an Eagle Scout and graduated from Memorial High School in 1957. He was united in marriage to Jean 
Anderson in January of 1959, and to this union his 2 daughters were born. He later married Ellen Rabbitt and together they had a son. Throughout the years Al owned and operated multiple businesses and enjoyed living at his lake home. His biggest passion was restoring cars; starting with the search and going through the entire process it took to finish them. Everyone enjoyed his passion for life, his positive attitude, and all the many stories that included his vast knowledge in so many different areas.
Al is survived by his sister, Irene (Arnie) Johnson; 2 daughters, Jill Baker, Julie (Bob) Downs; son, Alex Finseth; grandchildren, Nick, Lindsay and Jessi; good friend Joel; and canine companion Max. He was preceded in death by his parents.
A visitation will be held Saturday, April 7, 2018 from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the Anderson Funeral Home in Augusta. At 3:00 p.m. we will be leaving the funeral home and driving to the Drammen Lutheran Church Cemetery where graveside services will be held.
The cemetery is located at S12275 County Road B, rural Mondovi.
Online condolences can be left at Anderson Funeral Home
Dean H. Dorholt
March 25, 2018
Elizabeth A. Marshall (nee Wood) was born October 1, 1937 in Sparta, IL. and passed away peacefully at home Tuesday, March 6, 2018, after a lengthy struggle with cancer. Dear mother of Douglas (Sarah) of Amherst, MA., David (Hyejong) of Ft. Lauderdale, FL., and Rev. Fr. Daniel (Anya) of Cincinnati, OH.;
dear grandmother of Rebecca, James, Alexandra, Leo and Alexander; sister of Helen (William) Stairwalt of Godfrey, IL and Howard (Pat) Wood of Sparta, IL.; aunt to three nieces and two nephews, sister-in-law, cousin and friend to many. She was predeceased by her beloved husband of 47 years, Alexander Marshall.
Mrs. Marshall was a 1955 graduate of Sparta High School, Sparta, IL and received an Associate's degree from SIU Carbondale. Later in life she earned a Bachelor's degree in Healthcare Management from Maryville University. She met Alexander while working at McDonnell Aircraft Corporation and married him in 1960. The young couple spent several years in Ottawa, Canada and then returned to St. Louis, purchasing the house in which she passed away 52 years later.
Mrs. Marshall was a longtime member of Salem-in-Ladue United Methodist Church where she was extremely active, particularly in the United Methodist Women. She served as director of Meals on Wheels of Greater St. Louis for several years. She loved musical theater and a meal out with friends.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions appreciated to Meals on Wheels of Greater St. Louis, P.O. Box 410395, St. Louis, MO 63141 or Kingdom House, 1321 South 11th Street, St.Louis, MO 63104.
March 5, 2018
James Crippen passed away on January 29, 2018 in Fullerton, CA. He was born on October 19, 1936 in Santa Monica, California to parents Lawrence and Catherine Crippen. Already having an older sister, Chickie, two brothers O.T. and Tommy followed. The family settled in the Pacific Palisades near the ocean where Jim grew up. The family spent their summers on Lake Mary in a giant tent, which as Jim always pointed out, slept the entire family and guests as well! Two events in his early life had such a profound influence on him that they carried his interest throughout his life. His father worked in the mailroom for the railways, developing Jim’s interest in trains, both model and full-sized. Growing up in the car culture of post-war Southern California, he discovered his lifelong love for classic cars. Never to conform to the popular, instead of Bucket T’s and flaming 57’s, he bought a Franklin!
Everybody who met Jim became aware of his passion for the Franklin automobile. His knowledge reached to every detail of the car down to the engine size and lens manufacturer. Over the years he owned four Franklins. The most memorable story of his acquisition of them centers around one of the road trips he took with his son, this one being through Arizona. We visited two well-know collectors; the first had a former museum Franklin. Of course he couldn’t resist, and added it into his collection. Visiting the second collector he happened to notice, based on some clear detail having to do with the upholstery, that this was in fact the very car he had owned in high school. Unfortunately the collector was unwilling to sell. Of course he kept track of its whereabouts through his active membership in the Franklin Club, and when it appeared in the estate auction, it became his.
As his school years advanced at West LA’s University High and Cal State Los Angeles, he found a passion for U.S. History and Government. This interest extended into family history and genealogy. He soon realized his career calling was to become a Social Science teacher. During this time he served in the Air National Guard. In 1959 he began his 35-years as a teacher at Sunny Hills High School in Fullerton. For Jim, history was not just about the past; when he taught, history came alive in his classes.
In 1962 he met Linda in the Methodist Church in Fullerton. They were married on June 30, 1963. Two children, James Jr. and Cheryl were born. Being a teacher and loving history, he never hesitated to share his knowledge with his family.
Family vacations always included travelling in their motorhome to visit national monuments and historical sites such as presidential homes and libraries.
Jim was an active member in the Methodist church; his fellow adult Sunday school participants could always count on his contributions at their meetings. In addition, he served on many church committees over the years, and enjoyed representing the church at their annual conference in Redlands, where he reconnected with other delegates and former ministers.
After retirement, Jim enjoyed a full and event-filled life, which included a great deal of international travel. He visited James in England and Germany, Cheryl in Kenya and Uganda. He and Linda visited such diverse places as Russia, Australia, South America, The Holy Land, Egypt, and Greece. He especially enjoyed the historically themed trips organized by the Methodist Church. Wherever he went Jim brought his natural inquisitiveness and lifelong passion for learning.
From the eulogy made by Jim Crippen's son, James Jr.
February 7, 2018
It is with great sadness that we note the passing of
John Charles Tripier, 90. John passed away Tuesday, February 6, 2018, at Granite Farms Estates in Media. John was born May 25, 1927, in Chestnut Hill, PA to the late Charles L. Tripier and Marie Lousie (Froger) Tripier. He was predeceased by his only sibling, Helene.
John was a graduate of Lower Marion High School and attended Spring Garden Institute in Philadelphia. He served in Army Air Corps during WWII. After leaving the service in 1946 he worked at Clifton Precision. Later he and his father founded Auto Electric and Parts in Media. After over 50 years in the auto parts and repair business he sold Auto Electric in 1995 and moved on full-time to his second business selling and repairing air guns. His passions were his businesses, flying, antique cars, model airplanes, archaeology and history.
His survivors include his wife Barbara L. (Brown) Tripier, children Jeanette Spence (Kirk) of Portland, OR, Suzette Young of Media, and David Tripier (Claire) of Los Gatos, CA and eight grandchildren.
A private graveside service will be held at the Media Cemetery. A public memorial service is scheduled for Sunday, February, 11th at 2 PM, at Granite Farms Estates' auditorium, 1343 W. Baltimore Pike, Media, PA. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to a charity of your choice. Online condolences at cavanaghfuneralhome.com
February 3, 2018
It is with great sadness that we note the passing of
Lloyd E. Young, "Mr. Overdrive", age 87, of Canal Winchester, who died January 10, 2018 at his home. He was born August 15, 1930 in Violet Township to the late Robert and Mabel Young. Lloyd was a retired corporate pilot and had a passion for antique automobiles. He belonged to the Lithopolis American Legion Post 677, the Antique Car Club of America, and many other various antique car clubs. He is preceded in death by his first wife Betty Young and his second wife Shirley Young.
December 3, 2017
It is with great sadness that we note the passing of Susan (Sue) Dexter McKnight. Sue passed away on Thursday, November 30 with her husband, Dick, by her side.
Sue was a graduate of Cortland High School class of 1953 and SU class of 1957. While at SU she was a member of ZTA. She received her Master’s degree from Cortland State and taught in the Cortland City and Spring Valley School Systems. Sue was a member of the Otisco Presbyterian Church, an active member of the H.H. Franklin Automobile Club and member of the Dome City Doll Club. She enjoyed the time she spent on DeRuyter Lake. She was predeceased by her parents Grace and Coe Dexter Sr. and her brothers Coe Jr. and James Dexter. Sue is survived by her husband Richard J.; her son, Richard S.; several nieces and nephews. Friends may call Thursday December 7 from 10am to 1pm with a memorial service to follow at 1pm at the Hartwell Funeral Home, 461 Route 281, Tully, NY. Interment Tully Cemetery. Contributions may be made to: McKnight Fund at the Otisco Presbyterian Church, P.O. Box 276, Tully, NY 13159 or to your local American Cancer Society in remembrance of Sue.
In the 1970's, the McKnights started the Early Bird Tour at the Franklin Trek. At the time, the Trek started with Wednesday dinner. Many people were arriving earlier in the day on Wednesday and wanted something to do, so Dick and Sue provided a great tour. As the Trek expanded, the Early Bird Tour remained, somewhat incongrusously, in the middle of the week.
September 16, 2017
We sadly note the passing of one of the stalwarts of the Franklin Club, Sinclair Powell who passed away on September 13.
Sinclair, born November 9, 1922, was a Franklin car expert and a lawyer for many years. Born in Toronto, Canada, he spent most of his childhood in Wyandotte, Michigan. He graduated from Michigan State University (BA in History and Political Science), and from Cornell Law School (JD).
In addition, he attended Lehigh University (Army Engineering Training Program). Sinclair served in the US Army during WWII. He was a long-time member of state and Federal bars. Following a period of general legal practice, he entered the fields of urban planning and development and municipal government administration. He then re-entered private practice serving as a legal and management advisor to state and local governments and to private non-profit agencies. His legal and consulting work included major studies in the area of transportation. His office was in Ann Arbor, Michigan. During his career, he taught urban planning, public administration and public law at several Midwest universities. Long interested in the field of transportation history, after retirement he began to research the development of the American auto industry. He owned a 1928 Pierce-Arrow and a 1929 Franklin. He ultimately concentrated on studying the history of the Franklin Automobile Company, a firm located in Syracuse, New York. This research culminated in a book entitled "The Franklin Automobile Company", published in 1999 by the Society of Automotive Engineers Press. The book received the McKean Memorial Award from the Antique Automobile Club of America, the Nicholas-Joseph Cugnot Award from the Society of Automotive Historians, and the Franklin Medallion from Syracuse University. From 1997-1999, he was president of the Society of Automotive Historians, an international organization of persons interested in the history of the motor car.
He is survived by his wife of 58 years, Suzanne. He is also survived by a son, Robert, of Manhattan Beach, CA, a sister, Betty White, a nephew, James Lynn and a niece, Peggy Lynn. Sinclair liked reading, walking and travelling to vintage car meets in all areas of the country. Services will be held on Friday October 20, 2017 at 2:00 p.m. at First Presbyterian Church of Ann Arbor, 1432 Washtenaw Avenue, Ann Arbor 48104. Please share a memory of Mr. Powell with his family at: www.muehligannarbor.com
August 30, 2017
Patricia Jean Exter Kern, 88, beloved wife of Robert Kern, passed away August 24, 2017. She made her home in Genesee Depot, WI.
An exceptional woman of quiet grace and dignity, Pat was a friend, a wife, a mother, a grandmother and great-grandmother, who gave generously of her time and talents to people and organizations about which she cared deeply.
Pat was a natural leader who served on several boards of directors, including 23 years on the board of Northern Baptist Seminary. She was also involved with the boards of Green Lake Baptist Assembly, the Ten Chimneys Foundation, and Old World Wisconsin. She was the first board chair of the Kern Family Foundation, which she co-founded with her husband Bob in 1998. Pat received many awards for her work, including honorary doctoral degrees from Milwaukee School of Engineering, Northern Baptist Seminary, and the Medical College of Wisconsin.
In 2002, to address the diminishing supply of pastors nationwide, Pat was instrumental in establishing a scholarship program for aspiring pastoral ministry students. With this scholarship, over 700 young people enrolled in seminaries across the country over the last fifteen years.
Born in Urbana, Illinois on September 30, 1928, Pat grew up in Monmouth, Illinois and Bridgeton, New Jersey. She attended the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, where she met her husband Bob. Together they founded Generac Corp., now Generac Power Systems, in 1959. Pat was Generac’s first bookkeeper and served on its board of directors for 47 years.
Pat had a clear, soprano voice and loved singing in the choir at the First Baptist Church in Waukesha. She had a gift for friendship, a generous spirit, and a steadiness on which others relied. She was the calm in any storm, a voice of strength and courage in times of adversity.
Pat was the daughter of Frederick C. Exter and Marianna Collins Exter. She is survived by her husband of 69 years, who was her best friend and love of her life; by three daughters, Marcia Peterson (Gregory), Judith Kern, and Deborah Kern; many grandchildren and great-grandchildren; her sister, Carole E. Wever, and two brothers, Frederick C. Exter II (Julie) and Richard A. Exter (Deborah).
She will be greatly missed and in our hearts always.
The family will receive friends at Cesarz, Charapata and Zinnecker Funeral Home, 237 N. Moreland Blvd., Waukesha, WI 53188, on Thursday August 31, 2017 from 4:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m. A private memorial service is planned.
With deep appreciation for the wonderful flower arrangements already received, the family requests no more be sent.
June 29, 2017
STEVENSON (Levy), Nancy, age 65, of Bedford, passed away suddenly at home on Friday, June 23, 2017, with Jim, her loving husband of 46 years, at her side.
Born in Halifax, she was predeceased by both her parents.
Survived by husband, Jim; daughter, Maggie (Owen) Barnhill of Bedford; sisters, Thelma Fraser of Prince Edward Island; Donna (Curtis) D'Entremont of Halifax; her grandsons, Patrick (13), Christopher (11), and Nicholas (10), who were the light of her life.
"It's a grandmother's perogative" was always the answer to why she spoiled the boys rotten. Be it hockey games, voice recitals, or snuggles on the couch, she was always there for her grandsons. There is nothing she wouldn't do for the boys.
She loved to travel, spending many months a year globetrotting with Jim, seemingly on a mission to see every country in the world. Having achieved her goal of visiting over 100 countries, her favourite would always be Scotland. Scotland holds a special place, as many close friendships were developed throughout daughter Maggie's highland dancing career. Collecting friends along her travels, Nancy loved to laugh and learn.
She graduated with honours from MSVU at age 49, fulfilling her dream of becoming a university graduate. She was loved by many and will be forever missed.
May 29, 2017
Fernando "Fred" J. Antunes, 88, of Pohatcong Township, NJ, passed away Monday, May 22, 2017, at home.
Born in Mt. Vernon, NY, he was the son of the late Alvera (Elmeida) and Serafin Antunes. He was employed by several pump companies as a mechanical engineer. Most recently, he was employed as chief design engineer and retired from Ingersoll Rand in Phillipsburg. He served in the Army as a tank mechanic during the Korean War, earning the rank of first lieutenant. Fred was a graduate of Peekskill High School and Clarkson College with a B.S. in mechanical engineering. He was a volunteer with the Warren County Division on Aging and Disability Services.
Fred enjoyed sailing, skiing and dancing. He was also an avid antique car collector. Fred will be remembered for his willingness to help strangers, keen interest in learning, youthful spirit, strong opinions and ability to fix anything. He was a communicant of St. Mary Catholic Church in Alpha, member of the Knights of Columbus, H.H. Franklin Car Club, and the Antique Auto Club of America. Fred is survived by his beloved wife of 65 years, Gloria; daughter, Leslie Rounsaville; sons, Michael and Thomas; brothers, Anthony and Andrew; sister, Beatrice Finnerty; nine grandchildren and a great-grandson. He was predeceased by a daughter, Katherine Smith, and a sister, Theresa Eagen.
A Memorial Funeral Mass will be held Saturday, June 17, 2017 at 10 a.m. in St. Mary Catholic Church, 830 5th Ave., Alpha. There are no calling hours. Entombment will follow in the parish cemetery. Arrangements are being handled by Doyle-Devlin Funeral Home, Inc. in Phillipsburg. Expressions of sympathy may be offered at devlinfh.com.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations in his name to St. Mary Catholic Church. Doyle-Devlin Funeral Home 695 Corliss Ave. Phillipsburg, NJ 08865 (908) 454-1361.
April 2, 2017
Patricia Ann Ball was called to be with her Lord, whom she loved and served, on
May 11, 2017
Tricia, as she preferred to be called, was born in Burbank, CA, on June 21, 1951,
as an only child to William and Donnajune Foschaar. She grew up in the San
Fernando Valley, and enjoyed family camping and water skiing trips, especially to Lake
Shasta and Lake Powell. She especially enjoyed girl time and horseback riding with her
best friend Linda Whipp, who became Maid of Honor at our wedding. She attended Simi
Valley High School, and graduated from Moorpark College with a degree in wild and
exotic animal training and management, which she put to good use working at Magic
Mountain with their wild animal shows. One of her favorite stories was about being
'asked to leave' after the manager found racoons and lions living in her apartment.
She loved flowers, and spent a lot of time in the garden. As soon as a plant
bloomed, she would bring flowers into the house. When we lived in Fillmore, she
worked for a cousin who owned Fillmore Flower Shop.
Another of Tricia's loves was designing jewelry, and for a time, managed a
jewelry store in Ventura. She loved Square Dancing, and met her husband-to-be,
Sheldon (Shel) when she called a square dance for the high school youth group at
Bardsdale Methodist Church, of which Shel was the adult advisor. With her interest in
cars (she had restored her own Bug-Eyed Austin-Healy Sprite), she and Shel were a
natural couple. On their first date, she told Shel she had grown up handing wrenches to
her father while he restored and flew antique airplanes. They were married July 13,
1985. She became an 'instant mom' to Shel's two teen-age children, Allison and
Christopher, and later a loving grandma to Kimberly Ball, and Mei and Cole Tanaka.
When Shel retired from teaching vocational education at Fillmore High School in
1995, they moved to Mariposa, and built their home in the Lushmeadows area. Her
parents also relocated here about the same time. Tricia loved to be a homemaker, and
especially to cook. She designed her own kitchen, around which Shel built their home.
Each year she carried on a 109-year old family tradition of hosting a New Year’s Day
Pork and Sauerkraut dinner for family and friends.
Tricia's heart overflowed with love for her family, and for animals, and her home
was a happy place for Shel and their Doberman Pinschers.
Tricia and Shel enjoyed travelling, especially in their antique and classic cars.
She was a life member in the Horseless Carriage Club, member of the Marmon Motor
Car Club, the Pierce Arrow Society, the Franklin Club, the Studebaker Club, the Model
T Ford Club, and the Mountain Road Rattlers. She was the proud owner of, and helped
restore, her 1969 Camaro Z-28.
Tricia became a licensed pilot. She served as a docent at the California Gem and
Mineral Museum here in Mariposa. She took an active part in the United Methodist
Women. She sang in the choir at Bardsdale Methodist Church, and was a church
secretary .She (and Shel) served over 19 years as a volunteer with the Mariposa
County Sheriff Department's SCOPE She is a past officer in the Lushmeadows
Homeowners Association.
Tricia wanted to thank the caregivers who cared for her in the last days of her
illness, and to the members of Hornitos Masonic Lodge No. 98 for their love, support,
and prayers for both her and Shel.
A celebration of Tricia's life will be held at the Mariposa United Methodist Church,
Saturday, June 10, 1;00 PM. In lieu of flowers, friends are invited to make a donation to
the local SPCA, in fond memory of Tricia's love for animals, and/or to the Hornitos
Masonic Lodge 98 Sunshine fund.
April 2, 2017
I am sad to report the passing February 25th of long time member Jack Desch of Topeka, KS. Jack was 79. He worked 40 years for The Hobart Corp. and served 21 years in the Kansas National Guard. Jack was a former member of The HHFC Board, was active in the club, and he and Sharon attended a number of Franklin Treks. His sense of humor and gregarious nature will be missed by all. I think he gave Andy a real run for his money as to who had used the most film when at those Treks. I shall personally miss his numerous friendly emails. Our sympathy to Sharon, their five children and their families.
Barb and Ed Wyle
February 6, 2017
It is with great sadness that we report that Dan Grogan passed away Wednesday, January 11, 2017.
Daniel C. Grogan, was born in Bronxville, NY, Daniel had lived in Hawthorne for many years before moving to Wyckoff in 1985. He honorably served his country in the U.S. Army. After his service, he was the owner of Action Sprinkler Corp. in Hawthorne for many years. Daniel enjoyed antique cars, aircraft and gardening. He was a member of the Franklin Car Club, the North Jersey A's and the First Reformed Church in Hawthorne. Daniel was the wonderful husband of Janice Grogan (nee Cross). Loving father of Christopher Grogan and his wife Christine and Scott Grogan and his wife Jennifer. Adoring Pop Pop to Jack, Julia and Abby Grogan. Dear brother of the late Bob Grogan and the late Joe Grogan. Daniel will be remembered by his winning smile, love of coffee, kindness toward animals and surprise purchases in the garage. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the First Reformed Church, 259 Lafayette Ave., Hawthorne, NJ 07506.
Published in The Record on Jan. 12, 2017
Franklin Club member, Jim Kling from Nampa, Idaho, passed
away in September, 2016. He attended a Trek and drove his
1932 Franklin sedan on a Westrek and the Bakersfield Swap
Meet and Tour/Webb Franklin get-together. In 2013, I was fortunate
to be able to purchase the ’32 and I had a chance to visit
with Jim when I picked up the car. After we got the Franklin
home, Jim would call me periodically to make sure that I was
still happy with the purchase of the car! He had a friendly,
outgoing and helpful personality.
...Bill Charpier
Merle Brooks passed away November
27, 2016. An active west coast member
of the Franklin Club, Merle drove his
1927 Coupe and 1927 Oxford Sedan on
many Westreks over the past 35 years
with his wife, Armiene. In 1988, they
chaired the 19th Westrek in Leavenworth,
Washington. After retiring as the
General Manager of the Stevens Pass
Ski Resort where he was an innovator in
the ski industry (one of the lifts is named
for him), Merle and Armiene wintered in
Arizona and summered in Washington.
...Marlene Zimmerman
November 16, 2016
It is with great sadness that we report that Carmine Nicastro passed away Friday, November 4, 2016.
Dr. Carmine Anthony Nicastro Jr. peacefully departed this life after 78 years on the morning of November 4th, 2016 at home with his wife of 25 years, Marion Nicastro, by his side.
His spirit is carried on by his first wife of 29 years Nancy Nicastro, brother Robert Nicastro, daughters Veronica Nicastro, Denise Kartzman, Flowers Lovern, and Monique Flores, and grand-children Lauren, Matthew, Joshua, Dominic, Sophie, Henry, Tristan, and Thalia, and by the thousands of patients who received his gift of healing. Carmine was born to his loving parents, Carmine Sr. and Vera Nicastro, on April 4 th , 1938 in New York City, NY. After serving in the United States Army, he became an engineer for Corning Glass where he worked for nine years and developed three patents. Eventually, he became a Doctor of Chiropractic and began a journey to provide health and healing to his community, which lasted 57 years. Carmine's ingenuity and excitement for life were also evident in his love of working on antique cars, hunting, fishing, traveling, and conservation.
Private services will be held on the 26 th of November, 2016, followed by an open-house celebration of Carmine's life at the Bradford Fire Hall on Main Street in Bradford, NY at 12:30pm.
In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be made to Schuyler County Habitat for Humanity, PO box 45 Watkins Glen, NY 14891, Tyrone Fire Department, PO Box 69, Tyrone, NY 14887, or Weston Presbyterian Church, 510 County Route 23, Dundee, NY 14837. To leave the family a message of condolence, sign a guestbook, or to light a "Candle of Remembrance", please visit www.vedderandscottfuneralhome.com
Published in The Corning Leader on Nov. 13, 2016
November 4, 2016
It is with great sadness that we report that Dot Christiansen passed away Friday, November 4, 2016.
Dorothy Tutein (Dot) Christiansen, wife of Arnold (Arnie) Christiansen, entered her Eternal Home on Friday, November 4, 2016, at Genesis Healthcare Mineral Springs, North Conway, NH.
Although a resident of Tamworth for 37 years, she recently spent a happy and active year and a half at Evergreen Place (The New Hampshire Masonic Home in Manchester) where she received outstanding loving care.
She was born on May 4th, 1930, the daughter of Winifred (Bruce) and Herbert Tutein.
She lived in Saugus MA until her marriage in 1954, then moved to Lynn. She was a graduate of Saugus High School where she was involved in many activities and played in the band. After attending Malden Business School she was employed as a secretary in Boston and in Lynn.
She was a Past President of the Junior Riverside Club in Saugus and a Past Worthy Advisor of Saugus Assembly, Order of Rainbow for Girls.
Moving to Goffstown, NH in 1960, she was office manager and 'gofer' for her husband's automotive service station businesses. She was a Past President of the Goffstown Mothers Club, Past President of the Goffstown High School Band Boosters Association, and Past President of and high scorer on the Goffstown Women's Bowling League. She also owned and operated the Silver Bell Cone Craft Shop.
After moving north, she was the office manager for Melvin Village Marina for many years, then was employed by Ward's Boat Shop in Center Ossipee.
Always an active person, she shared an interest with her family in antique automobile activities. She was a member of the Antique Automobile Club of America and was very enthusiastically involved in the H.H. Franklin Club, holding the demanding but rewarding position as Registrar for the 'Franklin Trek', the club's annual national meet, for 27 years. She was also 'Trek' co-chairman for two years. She and Arnie were well-known dealers of antique automobile related collectibles and memorabilia for about 45 years.
Dot was also highly supportive of Arnie in his Masonic activities.
She was a great 'listener', offering words of comfort and sympathy to many who approached her with their problems.
She is survived by 'Arnie', of Tamworth, NH, her husband of 62 years; daughter Susan Roberts, her husband David and son 'Max' of Wakefield, MA; her brother Bruce Tutein and his wife Joanne of New Durham, NH; nieces Paula Tutein, Marcia Tyler, Linda Smith, and nephew Alan Tutein.
Calling hours and service will be held at Lord's Funeral Home; 50 Moultonville Road; Center Ossipee; NH, on Saturday, November 12, 2016, from 1-3pm. Funeral services will be held at 3:00 at the funeral home. Burial will be at the New Hampshire Veteran's Cemetery in Boscowen Monday, November 14, 2016.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Dot's memory to: Evergreen Place; 813 Beech St.; Manchester, NH 03104 or to The H.H. Franklin Club, Inc.; 50 Barrington St; Rochester, NY 14607-2204.
If you wish to express condolences or leave a fond memory please visit, www.lordfuneralhome.com.
April 26, 2016
Don Reddaway passed away on April 8th this year. He had been a member of the Franklin Club since the 60's. His career as an engineer, working in a Laboratory at the University of Washington, took him to many parts of the world.
I first met Don through the car club in Seattle in 1967 but lost touch when we moved away from Seattle in 1980. We happily met up again with Don and Carole at the Westrek at Forest Grove (2009) and have stayed in close communication since then.
He restored a 1931 Sport Salon and a 1930 Dietrich Convertible Speedster. The latter was a serious top-class rebuild (rebirth?).
He did the wood graining for my 31 Club Sedan. His knowledge of Franklins was extensive and he was always ready to discuss the slightest technical questions with me. His philosophy was that a car should be restored as close to original as possible. Being an engineer, he gave credit to the engineers at the Franklin Company for their work. He said that if you had any problem, you should be able to resolve it via the drawings and the manuals. (This was born out to me when Jim Ryan told me that he had topped up his hydraulic brake fluid in his car with standard brake fluid, only to find out that the previous owner, deceased, had used Silicone fluid - had told no one. The result has been a serious problem.)
Don's wife Carole was also in ill-health and passed away Friday April 22nd, just two weeks after Don.
We will miss them both.
Mike Whitehead
April 16, 2016
Sadly Mrs. Mary Watson passed away on Sunday, April 10, 2016.
Mrs. Mary Wilhoite Watson, 82, passed away on Sunday, April 10, 2016, at her residence. She was beloved by all who knew her and they enjoyed her spirit and attitude towards life.
She was born in Owen County, Kentucky to Laville and Julia Wilhoite, both deceased. She was preceded in death by her sister, Sandra Louise Wilhoite Easton.
She is survived by her husband of 61 years, Otto B. Watson Jr.; daughters, Laura (Rupert) Watson Zolayvar and Cheryl (Thomas) Eisenhardt; and grandchildren, Stephanie and Eric Zolayvar and Timothy and Steven Eisenhardt. Her family was important to her and a joy in her life.
Mary graduated as valedictorian in 1951 from Lloyd High School in Erlanger, KY. She held Bachelors and Masters degrees in Business Education from the University of Kentucky and an MBA from UNC-Greensboro. Mary taught Business classes at Bourbon County High School in Bourbon County, Kentucky from 1955 through 1958. Mary taught Business courses at Alamance Community College for more than 20 years before retiring in 1993.
She was an active member of the First Baptist Church of Burlington for 58 years where she participated in many programs including: Sunday School teacher, Stewardship committee member and choir member. She volunteered in community programs, including Meals on Wheels and the Burlington Christian Women's Club. She was a lover of antique vehicles and was a member of both the Antique Automobile Club of America (AACA), Alamance Regional AACA, and the H. H. Franklin Motor Club, participating in car club events for Hospice and many other organizations.
Viewing was be held in Burlington on Friday, April 15, 2016. A funeral service was be held at the First Baptist Church of Burlington, Broad Street, on Saturday, April 16, 2016.
Friends wishing to make memorial donations may make them to the First Baptist Church of Burlington in Mary's memory.
December 9, 2015
Club member David Gardner Merrill, 87, has passed away. He was born in Swampscott, Mass. to L. Gardner and Oliva (Noble) Merrill.
David graduated from Falmouth High School in 1946. He joined the Navy right after graduation and was honorably discharged in 1948. In 1950, he married Mary Lou (Blake) Endicott. David graduated from the University of Maine in Orono in 1952, with a degree in mechanical engineering. He was a member of the Sigma Phi Epsilon fraternity.
David's professional career focused on the railroad industry. He worked for the Bangor & Aroostook, the Maine Central, the Lehigh Valley, and Conrail. He also consulted with railroads around the world including Germany, Turkey, South Korea, and several countries in South America and Africa.
In 1993, David married Nancy Hall and enjoyed 22 years of retirement and adventure. He enjoyed many outdoor activities including hunting, fishing, hiking and camping. David was also an enthusiast of Franklin automobiles, owning and restoring several cars and belonging to the Franklin Club. He was active in The Falmouth Historical Society, helping to establish the Falmouth Heritage Museum. David was a lifelong, active member of the Falmouth Congregational Church. He was a member of the Free Masons, holding a 50 year medal.
David is survived by his wife, Nancy; his son, Peter Merrill and his wife, Joanne of Saco, his daughter, Catherine Liberty and her husband, Peter of Saranac Lake, N.Y., his step children, Chrisanne (Hall) Salazar of Davenport, Iowa, Stephanie and Steve Watts of Sebastian, Fla., and Thomas and Kathy Hall of Minneapolis, Minn.; his sister, Joanne Varga and her husband, Paul of Concord, N.H. He is also survived by 12 grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren; several cousins; and innumerable friends. David was predeceased by two sons, John Merrill and Thomas Merrill.
A Memorial Service will be held at 10:30 a.m., Friday, Dec. 11, 2015 at Falmouth Congregational Church, 267 Falmouth Road, Falmouth. Interment will follow at Pine Grove Cemetery, Falmouth.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to:
The Falmouth Historical Society
2 Homestead Lane
Falmouth, Maine 04105
September 29, 2015
Otis Steve Fansler, Jr.
June 16, 2015
Anson A. Schuman, 81, passed away on Friday, May 8, 2015 at the Stratton V.A. Medical Center in Albany after a brief illness. Born in Queens on January 3, 1934, he was son of the late Herman and Barbara Kunzweiler Schuman, and husband of the late Helen A. Schuman, who died April 12, 2004.
Anson was raised in Preston Hollow. He served in the Marine Corps during the Korean War. Following service, he was a self-employed carpet installer and, with his late wife, owned and operated the Glen Royal General Store from 1979 to 1999. Anson was a member of the VFW, AMVETS, Oak Hill-Durham Volunteer Fire Company, and the Franklin Club, an antique automobile club. Anson restored his own Franklin and attended shows and conventions in Schenectady and Cazenovia.
Anson is survived by his children, Anson Schuman Jr., Barbara Schuman, Diane (Dale) Dean, Deborah Canastra and Harry Schuman; brother, Nicholas Kahl; 9 grandchildren, 3 great-grandchildren, many nieces, nephews and cousins. In addition to his parents and wife, Anson is predeceased by three brothers, Herman, Edward and John Schuman, and his son-in-law, Timothy Canastra. Anson has been cremated privately. Calling hours will be Wednesday, 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. at A.J. Cunningham Funeral Home, 4898 State Route 81, Greenville. A memorial service will be Thursday at 11 a.m. at the funeral home, followed by burial of his ashes with military honors in Brookside Cemetery, Preston Hollow. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions to the Durham Ambulance, PO Box 106, Oak Hill, NY 12460 will be appreciated.
Condolence page at ajcunninghamfh.com. - See more at: http://ajcunninghamfh.com/tribute/details/525/Anson_A_Schuman/obituary.html#sthash.RvxsrYWn.dpuf
February 26, 2015
Patricia (Pat) Ann Nobles Kemp, age 86, of Andover, New York, passed away unexpectedly on Sunday February 8. She was the daughter of Eugene and Alice Nobles. Pat graduated from Towanda Grade School, Elmira Academy and attended SUNY Cortland where she was a member of the Nu Sigma Chi Sorority. She was a member of the United Methodist Church, Eastern Star, Horseless Carriage Club, and the Antique Automobile Club of America. A long-time member of the Franklin Club, Pat was the Franklin Trek Chairman for 1976 and 1977. She volunteered for the Red Cross Blood drive and the Election Day voting. She was a talented flutist and piano player. Pat was a kind and gentle lady who never knew a stranger as she would talk to anyone.
She is survived by her husband Roland of 64 years, daughters Barbara (David) Kemp of Johnson City NY, and Anne (Daniel) Russell of Wake Forest NC, and two grandchildren Samantha and Andrew Russell. She loved children and Samantha and Andrew were her constant worry and greatest joy.
A Memorial Service will be held at the United Methodist Church Greenwood St., Andover NY on April 18 at 11 am. Reverends Peggy Knolf and Terry Kelly will officiate. All are welcome to attend. Luncheon to follow. Memorial contributions in lieu of flowers may be given to the Andover Free Library, American Red Cross or donations to your favorite charity.
January 10, 2015
In Memoriam: James DeRusha
H.H. Franklin Club member James Oliver DeRusha, 69, passed away on December 16, 2014. He was a loving husband, brother, father, and grandfather. James grew up in Lewiston, NY and graduated from Lewiston Porter Central School. He completed his undergraduate education at Niagara County Community College and received his Masters in Education from SUNY Brockport. He spent the majority of his working years in Education, retiring as Superintendent of Schools at the Port Byron Central School District.
Jim was predeceased by his parents, William and Reta DeRusha of Lewiston, NY and his sister Pamela Condren of Youngstown, NY. He is survived by his wife of 48 years, Sharon, and sons, Michael and Daniel (former HHFC President) and Courtney of Corning, NY; brother, William & Marie DeRusha of Lewiston, NY; sister, Patricia and John Murray of Williamsville, NY. James had a very special relationship with all of his grandchildren who will miss him dearly; Shanita, Makalya, Briana, James, and Margaret.
I first met Jim at the 2001 Westrek in Lake Tahoe. We immediately formed a bond, and truly enjoyed his friendship over the years. His advice and guidance to me as I entered the field of education was invaluable. Jim owned a 1933 Olympic sedan, as well as an MGB and a straight-eight Buick. He will be missed.
-Steve Braverman
August 18, 2014
In Memoriam: Daisy Straitz
Daisy Straitz, mother of club member Mark Straitz, passed away August 10th. Daisy attended the 2012 Trek but Alzheimer's disease prevented her attending functions after 2012. Online obituary.
July 20, 2014
In Memoriam: Milt Smazik
We are saddened to share the news that Milton Smazik, age 85, of Homer Glen, Illinois, passed away on Tuesday, July 15, 2014. Milt was the beloved husband of Laverne, caring father of two and a special grandfather. Over the years, Milt and Laverne attended many Franklin Treks, were well-known and well-loved members of the Midwest Region and hosted many Region Meets in their area.
Milt had boundless energy for all things mechanical and had the talent to put that enthusiasm into action. He restored all his own cars and trucks including his two Franklins, a 1948 Chrysler Woody Sedan, a 1939 Diamond T Milk Truck and others. And Milt thoroughly enjoyed showing his visitors "Big Wally", a 1929 Walter wrecker/snowplow that played a "smashing" role in the 1987 movie "The Untouchables". Milt kept all his vehicles in running order and, if asked, would enthusiastically tell you about his many restoration projects. Because of his dedication to the Franklin Club, Milt and Laverne attended the Grand Opening of the Franklin Collection and put extra effort into bringing their 1929, 7 passenger Franklin, "Big Red", and their "sportster racer" which Milt built himself.
We will dearly miss Milt and his generous, enthusiastic, "can do" nature. He truly had the Franklin spirit. We send our love and sincerest sympathy to our dear friend, Laverne, and the entire Smazik family.
From Joan Hasslen and Lee Nelson
July 8, 2014
In Memoriam: Mae Powers
From Walter Gosden and Mary (Powers) Gosden
My mother-in-law Mae Powers passed away early this morning. She was married to Roy for 60 years (would have been 61 years on July 18th).
Mae and Roy had their 1923 series 10 coupe at many Franklin treks and were active in the Willys Overland Knight Club and Hudson Essex Terraplane Club as well as the Franklin Club. They attended the AACA annual Fall meet every year for the past 50+ years and had flea market spaces there where they enjoyed seeing close friends. Mae was also very active in her church.
Mae is survived by her husband Roy, 5 children, 8 grandchildren, and 2 great grand children.
May 3, 2014
In Memoriam: Don Kitchen
From Mark Sullivan
April 21, 2014 was a very sad day in the Franklin Club for we have lost a wonderful friend with the death of Don Kitchin. His quite yet determined demeanor accompanied by an encyclopedic knowledge of Franklin mechanics, a willingness to share that with everyone was all wrapped into one of the most generous people I have had the privilege of knowing. Don was a gentleman, always offering a kind word and a helping hand.
In many issues of Air Cooled News, beginning in the 1950s, article after article has Don as an integral part of the story. Often it was on a mechanical point where he found a solution to a problem or a new way of keeping Franklins running in top order while at other times we read about his personal memories. The latter included the neighbor who allowed 12 year-old Don to do chores in exchange for driving a series 9 up and down the driveway or how thrilled he was that his grandfather purchased a new 135.
Beginning in the late 1940s Don began looking for a Franklin, needless to say a 135, of his own that was both in good shape and affordable. As a new father, there were financial and family considerations that made this even more challenging. Finally in the early 50s he learned that Dr. Boyer had several potential candidates so he was off to Allentown to see what was available. After several cars were evaluated Don was presented the opportunity of trading machine work Doc needed on his '04 in exchange for a 135 sedan; the deal was quickly closed. When Don picked up the car he found a full tank of gas and the car vacuumed, washed and polished...Doc Boyer felt it up would "help with Phyllis." Although Don never said I directly, it was clear that originally she did not possess the same enthusiasm for the purchase of a Franklin, but following its arrival she unabashedly enjoyed riding to the Trek in the back seat and I can attest she enthusiastically looked forward to the drive to upstate New York.
His three year mechanical rebuild and updating of the engine and electrical system included insert bearings, a dashboard control for generator output ("so I don't burn the battery up on a long trip"), a special oil temp gauge ("to settle those questions surrounding what the operating temp really was under actual conditions") and more oil pressure than anyone thought possible. Yes, there is an article in ACN that describes in detail how he accomplished that.
Don and I were introduced in the summer of 1979 as I searched for my own Franklin and we quickly became friends. Without his encouragement, help and advice I know that my 137 would have never provided so many pleasurable miles in the ensuing years. Don enjoyed sharing his 135 and consistently offered young people the opportunity to ride and drive the automobile. Many brides went to the church in the 135 but more often he was giving young people the opportunity to feel the excitement of driving a true classic on the roads surrounding Cazenovia or his home in Connecticut. He told with great relish how a distant member of the Franklin family, when offered the opportunity to drive the 135, enthusiastically jumped in behind the wheel and quickly tossed her hat in the back seat eager to get the ride underway. His quiet demeanor and confidence combined with the traits of a true gentleman served him well as a Navy pilot, engineer for GE then Pratt & Whitney and unquestioned Franklin expert. His enthusiasm for the club and all who needed assistance marked him as a very special friend to us all. We shall miss him.
February 22, 2014
In memoriam: Al Kantner
Al Kantner, 78, of Vero Beach, FL passed away on Friday, January 24, 2014 at Sebastian River Medical Center. He was born in Peekskill, NY to Charles O. and Anna Mohr Kantner. Al moved to Vero Beach several years ago. He was a self- employed auto mechanic. He will be remembered for his love of restoring antique cars and for his love for dogs. He rescued many dogs and adopted them from the Humane Society. He was a member of Dogs for Life off-Leash Dog Park in Vero Beach.
Al is survived by 3 daughters: Sherry Zellner, Linda (Jim) Ferrara and Sue (Tim) Woods. He is also survived by his companion, Gloria Willer, 6 grandchildren and 2 great-grandchildren. Al was predeceased by his wife Barbara Marie Kantner in 2009.
February 20, 2014
In Memoriam: Garry Grethel
Garry was our bartender during the trek in 2012 and our greeter for breakfast in 2013. He had just come back to work before we arrived for the week. Garry put up a good fight and stayed positive through his illness.
Garry J. Grethel, 52 of Cicero, passed away Sunday quietly in his home after a courageous fight against pancreatic cancer surrounded by his family and friends. He was predeceased by his parents Leonard (2009) and Josephine (2006); brother David (1982) and brother-in-law Bernard Palumbo (2001).
Garry retired from the Syracuse Fire Department in 2008 after 21 years of service. He was recently employed at Cazenovia College for five years. He was popular and helpful to the entire college campus. He was always the "go to guy" for anyone who needed assistance with repairs or guidance. Garry was loved by everyone who met him. He will be greatly missed. Garry enjoyed his camp in Alexandria Bay where he fished, rode his scooter and cruised the St. Lawrence on his 4-seater Sea-Doo. He also enjoyed spending time with family and friends.
Garry is survived by his wife of almost 25 years, the former Kathleen Molanare; three daughters, Kimberley, Rebecca and Stephanie; sisters, Nanci Grethel-Palumbo of N. Syracuse, Melanie Piraino (Martin) of St Louis; brothers Ronald (Darlene) of Brewerton, Lenny of Syracuse , Alan (Richard Marx) of Canandaigua, several nieces, nephews, a great nephew and great nieces.
Funeral Services will be on Wednesday at 10AM in St. Margaret's Church, Mattydale where a Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated. Family and friends may call from 2-6PM on Tuesday at New Comer Funeral Home, 705 N. Main St., N. Syracuse.
In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the Griffith Family Foundation for pancreatic cancer in honor of Garry.
February 14, 2014
In Memoriam: Phyllis Kitchin
Highly individualistic, fiercely independent, a real New Englander and longtime Franklin Club supporter, Phyllis Kitchin, wife of Don, died February 8, 2014. Who can forget her big billed baseball cap or their arrival at the Trek with Don at the wheel and Phyllis riding in the back seat appreciating the passing parade offered by Rt. 20 and the college green in Cazenovia. Phyllis was also an inveterate birder maintaining a membership in the National Audubon Society and always partaking in the annual national bird count. Most importantly though, she was Don's lifetime partner and the driving force that preserved their independence on Beelzebub Rd. Phyllis was a very special person and will be missed.
Mark Sullivan
February 5, 2014
In memoriam: Dr. Norman Fizette lost his long battle with cancer and passed away on 22 January 2014 and was buried in Carthage, Missouri 28 January 2014. Several years ago he and the late Fred Sumner came to our home to see my Franklin. Shortly thereafter he joined the Franklin Club and purchased his '29 130. He traveled to several meets with Hazel and me and often while in NY attended our family reunions with us. Norm often mentioned how much he enjoyed the Franklin Club and the many people he had met. He had several Packards in the past but enjoyed the Franklins better. Farewell dear friend and God Bless!
Jim and Hazel Wade
November 6, 2013
In Memoriam: Anna May Miller
Anna May Miller, 73, of Emmaus, died October 24, 2013 in Lehigh Valley Hospital. She was the wife of Timothy W. Miller. Born in Cape May, NJ, she was the daughter of the late Sven and May (Jefferis) Long. She was a graduate of Wildwood High School and American University. She was a Medical Technologist, working at hospitals in Washington D.C., Troy, NY, Sacred Heart Hospital, Allentown, Buffalo, NY, and Cedarbrook Nursing Home for 20 years, retiring in 2003. She was a member of St. Georges Episcopal Church, Hellertown. She was a longtime supporter of the VNA Auxiliary and the Allentown Art Museum.
Survivors: husband, Timothy W. Miller; son, Andrew Miller of Bethlehem; daughters, Abigail DeLuca of Florence, Italy and Amy Miller of Emmaus; grandchildren, Lorenzo and Emily.
Services: Memorial Services Monday, October 28, 2013, at 1:30 p.m. in St. Georges Episcopal Church, 735 Delaware Ave., Hellertown, PA 18055. Interment will follow in the church memorial garden. Schantz Funeral Home, P.C., Emmaus is handling arrangements. Contributions: In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to St. Georges Episcopal Church Memorial Fund. Online obituary.
September 4, 2013
From Jeff and Joan Hasslen.
We are sorry to pass along the sad news that a dear member of our Franklin family has died. Alice Gray, wife of Henry Gray (Bloomington, Indiana), passed away August 13, 2013 from cancer. Alice was a faithful Franklin supporter and active Midwest Region member. She and Henry attended many Treks, Midwest Meets and Westreks—always driving their Franklin across the country. Henry writes "those that knew Alice will recall her calm and implicit faith in my restoration abilities (?!)".
Alice was a special woman—an inspiration to all who knew her—caring, understanding, loving. She was a dear friend with a listening ear and a sweet smile. Her knowledge and love of nature was shared with many and appreciated by all. Alice lived her life with a gracious and generous heart. She will remain in our memory always. Obituary.
August 24, 2013
From Joan Hasslen.
With heavy hearts we pass on some sad news. Roline Milne, wife of Dennie Milne, passed away in her sleep on July 25, 2013. Roline was an active member and loyal supporter of our Midwest Region who also attended many Franklin Treks. She was always kind, thoughtful, a hard worker, a quiet but strong woman, a good listener and a dedicated wife, mother and grandmother. She will be greatly missed and we send our sincerest sympathy to Dennie, their children and the entire Milne family. (Roline was the daughter-in-law of Franklin members Don and Carole Milne.) Cards may be sent to Dennie Milne, 246 Huron Rd, Machesney Park, IL 61115. Obituary.
July 4, 2013
In Memoriam: Helen "Dodie" Doake
Helen "Dodie" Victoria (Koziol) Doake, 74, passed away peacefully on Sunday morning at Governors Center in Westfield, MA. She was born in Westfield on May 11, 1939, the daughter of Helene & Adolph "AJ" Koziol. She is survived by her husband, Stevenson M. Doake, her daughter Dodie Doake and her husband Paul White of Westfield, and two grandsons Raymond S. & Alexander M. Flagg. Helen's daughter Diane predeceased her in 1975.
Helen was an avid bowler and enjoyed traveling to WIBC tournaments with teammates and friends. She belonged to the Western MA & CT chapters of the Model A and Model T antique car clubs, going on antique car runs with her husband. She also loved to do arts and crafts, watch her grandson Alex play youth football, and reminisce with her best friend since childhood, Jennifer Scanlon. She worked in the family business, Royal Service, for many years. She was a communicant of St Joseph's Polish National Catholic Church.
Calling hours will be Monday, July 8, 2013 from 6-8pm at Firtion Adams Funeral Service, 76 Broad Street, Westfield, MA. Burial will be at the convenience of the family. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her name to the Shriners' Hospitals for Children, 516 Carew St, Springfield, MA 01104 or the Holyoke Soldiers' Home, 110 Cherry St, Holyoke, MA 01040. firtionadams.com
November 11, 2012
Dear H.H. Franklin Club,
This is to inform you that Bruce Weir died on 7/17/12 and his wife of almost 65 years, Barbara Krall died on 8/8/12. They were the proud owners of a 1909 Franklin which they drove in local parades until their health and strength prevented them from continuing — Bruce was 96 and Barbara was 99. Their 1909 Franklin is housed in the WAAM Museum in Hood River, Oregon (1600 Air Museum Road, Hood River, Oregon 97031). Their wish is for it to remain in the Museum for all to enjoy.
Sincerely,
Jim H. Donnelly, Trustee
8000 Cooper Spur Rd.
Parkdale, Oregon 97041
Obituary from the Daily Inter Lake.
March 3, 2012
March 1, 2012 Gary L. Rink, 80, of Jordan, passed away Thursday. A
lifetime resident of the Syracuse area, he was a graduate of Solvay High
School and Morrisville State College and a Marine Corps veteran. Gary
retired after 25 years with Welch Allyn and previously worked at
Crouse-Hinds for 15 years. A member of the Seventh-Day Adventist Church
in Westvale, he was also president of the Oneida Lake Antique Car Club,
and a member of the H.H. Franklin Club and the Model T Ford Club of
America. Surviving are his wife of 53 years, the former Mary Ann Copley;
daughters, Carolyn of Union Springs, Linda of Skaneateles and Sherri of
Manlius; sons, Stephen of Auburn, George of Manlius and Kenneth of
Sennett; brothers, David of Chicago and Alan of North Carolina; 12
grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews. Relatives and friends may
call Monday from 4 to 6 p.m. at Buranich Funeral Home, 5431 W. Genesee
St., Camillus. Graveside services will be Tuesday at 1 p.m. in Greenlawn
Cemetery, Warners. Please share condolences at
www.BuranichFuneralHome.com
February 15, 2012
Robert Warren Wittren, born December 28, 1923 in Fairchild, Wisconsin,
passed away on January 25, 2012 in Hayward, California, after a brief
illness. Bob was born on a farm in Wisconsin and moved to Iowa in his
childhood, graduating from high school in Cedar Falls, Iowa in June of
1942. Bob worked for John Deere until he was drafted in to the US Army
in March of 1943. He was honorably discharged from the Army for his
polio-related disabilities and after his discharge moved to Spokane,
Washington where he worked as an Engine Test Inspector working on B17s
and B29s until World War II ended. He returned to Iowa and started a
business dealing with surplus war vehicles, also working for Harry
Peterson Auto Service in Waterloo as a mechanic. Bob could fix
anything! He moved to California in the fall of 1948, attended Aero
Tech Institute where he received a government issued Aircraft &
Power Plant Certificate.
He met his first wife, Gloria Anderson in San Francisco and they were married in April of 1949; their son Robert Chester was born in 1950. After their divorce in 1954, he met and married Marjorie Dawn Smith in 1956, raising 6 wonderful & loving children. He married Marguerite E. Mink in 1975, a loving and adored second mother to his children until his death in 2001. Bob and Marge were proud owners of "Old Bess," their 1924 Franklin, and they covered countless miles touring the country with the Franklin Club. Bob was preceded in death by his daughter Sue (Joe) Moscon and is survived by his son Chester Wittren, stepson Fred Smith, children Melinda (Freeman) Barton, Kevin Wittren, Patty Siegman, Richard (Barbara) Wittren, his brother Richard Wittren and his sister Betty Mendes, his beloved grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews. Private family services are pending.
January 1, 2012
Betty M. Boyer
Betty M. Boyer, 90, of Sarasota, FL, formerly of Allentown, passed away
Wednesday, December 28, 2011 in Sarasota Memorial Hospital. She was the
wife of the late Dr. George S. Boyer. Born in Allentown she was the
daughter of the late William F. and Iva Florence (Kuhns) Deibert. She
was a graduate of Temple University and served her internship for
Dental Hygienist at Allentown General Hospital. Survivors: Daughters,
Susan E. Kretz of Sarasota FL, Wendy B., wife of Louis Seier of
Londonderry VT, and Nanette G. wife of Henry Nevins of Santa Barbara,
CA; grandchildren, Samantha, Andrew and Kasey; brother, William and
wife Alma; sisters, Marjorie, wife of Jack Rader and Jean Harries.
Services: 1 p.m. Tuesday January 3, 2012 at the Trexler Funeral Home 1625 Highland St. Allentown PA 18102. Calling 12:30 to 1 p.m. Tuesday in the funeral home. Burial to follow at Greenwood Cemetery Allentown. www.trexlerfuneralhome.com. Contributions: Humane Society of the Lehigh Valley 640 Dixon St. Allentown, PA, 18103.
Published in Morning Call on December 30, 2011
August 4, 2011
Al Bennett III, 37 year old son of Alexander (Sandy) Bennett Jr. and Betty Bennett, passed away suddenly August 2, 2011. The funeral will be private.
June 17, 2011
Robert (Bob) Larrabee passed away in Spokane, Washington on May 8, 2011 at the age of 76. He was a member of the Franklin Club since the early 1970s. Bob and his wife, Renee', attended several of the Franklin Westreks including those held in the Pacific Northwest in 1977, 1988, 1993, and 2000. At each of these meets, he drove his immaculate 1933 17B 7-Passenger Sedan. He was also active in the Classic Car Club and drove a 1933 Packard in the 1984 Great American Race. We send our condolences to Renee' and the family.
Obituary from the Lewiston Tribune
June 10, 2011
In Memoriam - Bob Feeley - May 24, 2011
It is with profound sadness that we note the passing of longtime Franklin Club member Robert J. Feeley. For many years, Bob was fixture at the annual Trek in Cazenovia, usually arriving in an Airman sedan he drove up from New Milford, Connecticut. He was also a perennial participant in the traditional sing-along held in the dining hall of the college with the late Don Winzer at the piano. He knew more old songs than most of us, and the accompanying obituary from both the Augusta, Georgia and New Milford, Connecticut newspapers indicate that he also was a talented saxophonist.
Serving on the HHFC Board of Directors from 1976 through 1978, Bob was also was the first club merchandise manager. Some of us have the Air Cooled News binders that were a product of his tenure in that job. His dad is reported to have worked in the advertising department of the HH Franklin Company, so there was a direct connection to Franklin history in his family.
Bob always had a friendly smile for everyone, salted more often than not with a bit of Irish wit and charm - in fact, he was often jokingly called "Irish", which always produced a big grin on his face. His obituary fills in many other aspects of Bob's life, but his presence will be remembered and missed by his many friends in the Franklin Club. May he rest in peace, along with so many other of our Franklin Club members who have gone before us.
Neil Sugermeyer
Martinez, Ga. - Robert Joseph Feeley, 92, passed away at home on May 24, 2011 after a long-term illness. Bob was born in Syracuse, NY to Robert S. Feeley and Marie E. Feeley, the oldest of five children. He attended Greenwich High School. Being part of a musical family, Bob developed a love of music, especially big band, and was a talented saxophonist.
He joined the army during World War II. During his service, Bob served transporting blinded solders home from Europe and rehabilitating them upon returning to the US. After completion of his service, Bob met and married Catherine Shea in 1946. The couple were married in Riverside, CT and subsequently lived in Baldwinsville, NY and Carmel, NY. They finally settled with their family of three daughters and one son in New Milford, CT.
Throughout his life, Bob was an active member of every community he joined and never seemed to meet a stranger. He loved to sing and took any opportunity to entertain those around him with his voice. As an American of Irish ancestry, Bob had a love of all things Irish, from the Irish oatmeal he ate for breakfast, to the Irish flag that flew in front of his home, to the cherished shillelagh he received as a recent Christmas gift, and was lucky enough to visit Ireland in 1996.
His love of the railroad prompted him to join the National Association of Railroad Passengers, and his affinity for antique cars led to membership in the Franklin Club of America. He was an active member of the Catholic Church and also a member of the Knights of Columbus Terence Cardinal Cook Council 8495. While living in New Milford, CT, Bob attended mass daily without fail (and never without doughnuts) at St. Francis Xavier Church and served as a Eucharistic minister. His enthusiasm and loyalty made him a beloved member of the church as well as the New Milford Senior Center.
He was sorely missed by all in New Milford, CT when, in 2005, he and Catherine moved to Georgia to escape the New England winters and join their children and grandchildren who had previously migrated south.
Bob is survived by his wife, Catherine, siblings Gordon Feeley, Margaret Merrit, and Joanne Feeley Whipple, his four children: Diane D'Amato of New Milford, CT; Robert and Laurie Feeley of Evans, GA; Kathl/een Dolan of Sharon, CT; and Julie and Lembit Paist of Martinez, GA, Ned Dolan of Kent, CT; seven grandchildren: Erin Dolan, Megan Dolan Mollica, Eric Paist, Diane Paist Newsome, Robert Paist, Rory Dolan, and Sean Feeley; five great grandchildren: Luke Mollica, Kendall Shea Newsome, Cole Mollica, Conner Paist and Tyler Newsome; and numerous nieces and nephews. Brother Edmund Feeley, son in law Thomas D'Amato, and granddaughter Moira Dolan predeceased him.
Funeral Mass will be held Friday, May 27, 2011 at 2:00 P.M. at St. Teresa of Avila Catholic Church with Fr. Gaspar Hegedus celebrant. Honorary pallbearers will be Knights of Columbus Terence Cardinal Cook Council 8495. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to The LightHouse for the Blind: www.lighthouse-sf.org/donate The family will receive friends Thursday evening from 6:00 to 7:00 P.M. at Thomas Poteet & Son Funeral Directors, 214 Davis Rd., Augusta, GA 30907 (706) 364-8484. Please sign the guestbook at www.thomaspoteet.com Sign the guestbook at AugustaChronicle.com/obits.
Published in The Augusta Chronicle on May 26, 2011.
Stephen Allen Roake, Architect and Car Collector
June 26, 1938 - April 14, 2011
Stephen Allen Roake was born on June 26, 1938 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania to Wilber C. and Helen K. Roake. He passed away from complications of heart disease April 14, 2011. He is survived by his brother, Samuel C. Roake, cousins Adrienne Kernan of San Francisco, Thomas Kernan of Alameda Ca., Mrs. Jeanne Weseloh and husband William of Menlo Park Ca., Charles and Judith Fairweather of Winter Park, FL, George Rogers of California and many close friends in northern California. Steve and his family lived in Great Neck, NY, and he bought his first car, a Morgan, during his high school years. He graduated from Notre Dame University in 1960 with a Degree in Architecture, also serving in the Army National Guard , active and inactive, from 1961 through 1964. Steve loved to travel and on a European trip, acquired a 1950 Morgan +4 in England, and drove it throughout Europe. Later, he traveled in England, France, Italy, Morocco, and Turkey.
Steve practiced architecture in Manhattan for several years, then moved to San Francisco, where he worked for 4 years at Whistler-Patri Design and started his own architectural practice in a small storefront in Bernal Heights. He invested in San Francisco real estate in the mid-60's, and in 1973, moved his architectural offices to his building at 2260 Market Street. Steve left his mark in San Francisco, designing numerous Victorian remodels and award winning new residential complexes in the city. In 1979, he bought land in the Dry Creek region of Sonoma County. He used the property as a weekend retreat, first camping on the land and eventually, designed and built his dream home. In 1998, he moved to Sonoma County to live full time.
Steve was well known and liked for his casual sense of humor, diversity of interests and his zest for life. His interest in classic cars led him to collect a number of beautiful cars which he enjoyed driving. Steve was active in many car clubs, including the Antique Automobile Club of America, the Franklin Club, the Morgan Club, the Freewheelers, the Lincoln Owners Club, The Antique Studebaker Club, the Classic Car Club of America (CCCA) and the Nor-Cal Region of the CCCA. He served on the Board of Directors of both the CCCA and the Nor-Cal Region of the CCCA. Steve toured extensively with other car enthusiasts and he hosted many tours, designing the routes and setting up the logistics for participants. He was invited to show his 1931 Studebaker President Roadster at the prestigious Concours d'Elegance 2010 in Pebble Beach last August.
Steve was charming and talented and generous with his time and private philanthropy and enjoyed sharing his excellent culinary talents with his friends. He will be greatly missed by family and friends alike.
A memorial celebration of Steve's Life will be held on June 10, 2011, at Villa Chanticleer, 1248 N. Fitch Mountain Road, Healdsburg, CA 95448 at 2:00 P.M.
Long-time club member Steve Roake of Geyserville, California died unexpectedly on April 14 during surgery. Steve was a true car guy. He was not only well-known in the Franklin club, a marque which seemed to be his favorite Full Classic®, but in the Lincoln and Morgan clubs, as well. He was a regular participant at the Trek and Westrek and at CCCA CARavans, touring his cars all over North America. Steve also hosted and planned the 2007 Westrek. He also served as a longtime member of the CCCA Board of Directors. Steve was always a valuable resource for the club, giving generously of his time and resources to further the club's mission.
Steve was quiet, soft-spoken man who always had something valuable to add to our discussions. He was an accomplished architect, real estate developer and philanthropist and provided invaluable help when planning for the building of the Hickory Corners Museum structure.
Just about everyone who met Steve viewed him as a friend. His passing is a loss to the Club and to the Hobby. Steve regularly hosted car clubs at his Geyserville car garage. He planned and organized car tours for a number of car clubs to which he belonged.
April 14, 2011
Cornelius (Neil) Loysen, October 29, 1936 -
April 7, 2011
Craftsbury, VT
Neil passed away very peacefully on April 7, 2011 after a yearlong bout with brain cancer.
Born October 29, 1936 in Port Washington, NY, Neil grew up and attended school in Roslyn, NY and St. Johnsbury Academy in Vermont. He graduated from St. Lawrence University and subsequently had a long career with Met Life Corp. at their offices in New York City, Morristown, NJ and Greenwich, RI.
Neil had a passion for all things historic and especially automobilia. He was an avid automotive historian, collector and frequent contributor to antique car club journals. He was a member of the H.H. Franklin Car Club and former editor of their journal, .Air Cooled News.. He was also a member of the Classic Car Club of America, the Society of Automotive Historians, The Veteran Motor Car Club of America, and the Boston Area Toy Collectors Club.
Neil is survived by his brothers, Peter in Silver Spring, MD, Jon in Lawrenceville, NJ, David and his wife, Carol, in Stowe, VT and his sister-in-law Kay Loysen in Ocean View, DE along with many nieces and nephews.
Neil spent his last days at the Craftsbury Community Care Center in Vermont where he was welcomed in by a wonderful community of friends. At Neil's request, no services will be held and those wishing to express their remembrance may make a tax deductible contribution to the Craftsbury Community Care Center, 1784 East Craftsbury Road, Craftsbury, VT 05826
For info contact David Loysen at shawhill@stoweaccess.com.
April 10, 2011
April 8, 2011 George E.
Staley, 92, of Lincklaen Center, passed
away Friday at his home. He was born in
Nedrow and graduated fron DeRuyter Central
School. He lived downstate for many years,
where he established his own aviation repair
company, CAMCO. During WWII, Mr. Staley was
an aviation military consultant.
Retiring in 1988, Mr. Staley moved back to Linklaen and continued his lifelong hobby of collecting and restoring antique cars. In 1995 Mr. Staley was instrumental in the formation of the Northeast Classic Car Museum in Norwich. Today the museum has over 100 antique vehicles, many that he donated, and many varied exhibits that preserve that part of history for present and future generations. His latest project was the restoration of DeRuyter Town Hall, where he went to school in the 1930s. He and his sons have combined their talent, support and financial assistance to enlarge the library and the food pantry and to revamp the town offices for all residents to utilize and enjoy for many years to come.
He has accomplished so much in his life, but most of all he will be remembered for his dignity, grace, quiet nature, support, generosity, wisdom and all he did for others. He will be missed very much by his family, friends and all who knew him or knew of George Edward Staley. Our lives have been graced by him.
Surviving are sons Claude (Lynn) of Rye and James (Fausta) of Somers; son-in-law, Lawrence (Nancy) Loffredo of Lincklaen Center; grandchildren, Paul and Jill Staley, Nicole (Robert) Sheridan, Christopher Staley, Jason (Melanie) Loffredo, Kevin Loffredo and Lori (Rick) Arena; great-grandchildren William, Alexander and Dylan Sheridan, and Vincenzo and Salvatore Arena; nieces and nephews; and a dedicated "harem" of caregivers. He was predeceased by his wife, Genevieve, and daughter, Jeanne Loffreda.
Services will be 10 a.m. Tuesday at Smith Funeral Home, DeRuyter. Burial will be in Hillcrest Cemetery, DeRuyter. Calling hours will be 4 to 7 p.m. Monday at the funeral home. Contributions may be made to the DeRuyter Free Library, c/o Gerald Wood, DeRuyter, NY, or the Northeast Classic Car Museum, c/o Doreen Bates, Rexford St., Norwich, NY.
Published in Syracuse Post-Standard on April 10,2011
March 13, 2011
Members Bill and Jan Charpier are sad to report that Jan's mother, Regina Haggerty of Orangevale, California, passed away at the age of 93 on March 5, 2011. Many of the Franklin Club's west coast members will remember Regina from several Westreks. She lived with Bill and Jan, and she participated in four Westreks with them starting in 2006 when she was 88. Last year at the age of 92, Regina attended the reception, ladies tea and banquet at the Rancho Cordova Westrek which was hosted by Bill and Jan. Even though she was often the oldest person in attendance, she was an enthusiastic participant and climbed in and out of Jan and Bill's 1928 sedan without a complaint.
Frank Peredo, Regina Haggerty, and Jerry
Houchens at Geyserville 2007
March 11, 2011
We've learned
of the passing of Leo Kunan, the father of
long time club member Peter Kunan who passed
away a few years ago. Leo was a member of the
club and was known as a very, very kind man
who always has a smile on his face. Leo and
Peter attended many Treks together.
Leo F. Kunan of Holbrook, March 11, 2011 at the age of 88. Beloved husband of Pauline F. (House) Kunan. Loving father of John F. Kunan of Holbrook, Paula L. Tavares and her husband Wayne of Plymouth and the late Peter C. Kunan. Dear grandfather of Lori Phinney of Carver, Amy Zeoli of Plymouth, Rachel Hackett and Thomas Kunan both of Holbrook and John D. Kunan of Holliston. Brother of the late Richard Kunan. Also survived by 4 great grandchildren.
Reposing at the Cartwright Funeral Home, 69 So. Franklin Street, (Rte 37), HOLBROOK. A Funeral Service will be held on Tuesday March 15, at 11:00 AM in the funeral home. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend. Visiting hours Monday March 14, 4:00 - 8:00 PM. Burial in Blue Hill Cemetery, Braintree.
Leo was a life long resident of Holbrook. He graduated from Stockbridge School of Agriculture with an Associates Degree and was the former owner of Kunan's Greenhouses of Holbrook. Leo was a member of the Masonic Lodge, MARCOM and South Shore Antique Auto Clubs and a former Holbrook Rotarian. WWII Veteran US Marine Corp. Recipient of the Distinquished Flying Cross. For additional information, directions or to leave a sympathy message visit our website www.cartwrightfuneral.com.
February 23, 2011
We've learned of the passing of Miles Streett Amick earlier this month. This obituary is from The Cumberland Times-News Mon Feb 07, 2011.
Miles Streett Amick, 85, of LaVale, died Saturday, Feb. 5, 2011, at the Lions Center in Cumberland.
Miles was born Jan. 7, 1926, in Cumberland, and he was the son of the late Arthur Hammond Amick Jr. and Dorothy Streett Amick. He was preceded in death by sister, Dorothy Bohensky; and brother, Arthur H. Amick III.
He is survived by Carolyn Erickson Amick, his wife of 53 years, of LaVale; son, Richard E. Amick of Columbia; daughter, Ruth A. Howard and her husband Keith; twin grandsons, Benjamin and Daniel Howard of Piedmont, S.C.; and two nieces and three nephews.
He was a graduate of Fort Hill High School, class of 1944. Mr. Amick graduated from Washington & Jefferson College in Washington, Pa., and received his MBA from the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia.
He was self-employed in a tax and bookkeeping service for many years. He was a charter member of Christ Lutheran Church, where he served on the Council and as treasurer. He was one of the founding presidents of the H. H. Franklin Motor Club and enjoyed a great interest in restoring antique Franklins with his father.
The family will receive friends at the Hafer Chapel of the Hills, 1302 National Highway, LaVale, on Tuesday, Feb. 8, from 7 to 9 p.m.
The funeral services will be conducted in the funeral home chapel on Wednesday, Feb. 9, at 2 p.m. with Pastor Charles A. Erzkus officiating.
Interment will follow in Rose Hill Cemetery, Cumberland.
Condolences may be sent to the family through www.haferfuneralservice.com.
January 19, 2011
Eugene R. "Gene" Kosche, 82, and his wife Ruth S. Kosche, 92, residents of Route 7A, Shaftsbury, died Monday, January 17, 2011 as a result of a structure fire at their residence. Ruth was born in Pittsfield, on May 11, 1918, daughter of the late John F. and Hilda (Hornig) Schumacher. Gene was also born in Pittsfield on October 7, 1928, son of the late Albert A. and Madeline Vogel Kosche. They both received their education in the Pittsfield schools and were graduates of Pittsfield High School.
Gene was a veteran of the Korean Conflict where he served in the U.S. Army as a member of the Military Police. Gene was first employed as an apprentice machinist at May Engineering Company in Pittsfield. He later left to work at the Eaton Paper Company where he met Ruth and they were married at the Zion Lutheran Church in Pittsfield on May 11, 1958. Shortly thereafter Gene accepted a position at Bennington Brush Company where he worked for several years as Superintendent. After leaving Bennington Brush he accepted the position of Curator of Military and Mechanical Arts at the Bennington Museum until his retirement in 1992. Gene will be remembered by many for his articles that appeared in the Bennington Banner during his years at the museum.
Gene and Ruth were avid students of nature and were both long time members of the Vermont Institute of Natural Science (VINS), the Audubon Society and the World Wildlife Foundation. Devout members of the Shaftsbury United Methodist Church, Gene was a member of the Methodist Men's Group, served as lay leader and speaker, a Trustee and member of the Administrative Board and on the planning committees for the construction of the Michael Paulin Room and the restoration of the church's stained glass windows. Ruth was a member and treasurer of the United Methodist Women at the church, served as the church financial secretary, taught Sunday school and sang in the church choir.
Gene and Ruth shared many interests together including antique cars and coin collecting. They belonged to the H. H. Franklin Club, a group of Franklin car enthusiasts. They both enjoyed touring in their vintage "Franklin Olympic". Gene served as officer of the nation-wide club in the late 1970's. Ruth and Gene were members of the Green Mountain Car Club where Gene was a former president and also were long time members of the Battenkill Coin Club where Ruth was a past treasurer and Gene was past president.
Gene was a resource for many people on issues involving local, state and national history. He had been active in the Shaftsbury Historical Society for many years. He belonged to the Friends of Eagle Square, was an amateur astronomer, repaired antique clocks, volunteered at the Bennington Free Library and enjoyed antiques, especially tools, firearms and cars. He looked forward to his musket demonstrations at both the Peter Mattison Tavern and for the 5th grade class at the Shaftsbury Elementary School when they were studying life in colonial America.
Ruth enjoyed time spent in her raspberry patch making jams, jellies and selling them at the Farmers Market, her flower garden, both crossword and jigsaw puzzles, crocheting , sewing and bowling in her younger years.
Together they made many trips to the Manchester Music Festival to listen to classical music, plays at the Dorset Play House and events at the Southern Vermont Art Center.
Ruth and Gene are survived by their sons and daughters-in-law, Stephen E. and Jean M. Kosche and David A. and Lisa J. Kosche, all of Shaftsbury; their grandchildren, Vanessa (Howard) Amidon, Ashley and Elizabeth Kosche, their great-grandson Austin and several nieces, nephews and cousins. Ruth is also survived by a sister, Gladys Donohue of Texas and Gene is survived by a sister, Beverly Jarrett of Pittsfield. Gene was predeceased by a brother, Albert A. Kosche Jr.
FUNERAL NOTICE: Funeral services celebrating the lives of Ruth and Gene Kosche will be held from the Shaftsbury United Methodist Church on Saturday, January 22, 2011 at 11 a.m. with Rev. Matthew Bowles, pastor and Rev. Deborah Estey, former pastor, officiating. Friends may call at the Mahar & Son Funeral Home Friday from 3 to 7 p.m. Burial will take place in the family lot in Center Shaftsbury Cemetery. Should friends desire contributions in memory of Eugene and Ruth Kosche may be made to the Shaftsbury United Methodist Church, the Shaftsbury Fire Department, V.I.N.S. or the Bennington Museum through the office of the Mahar & Son Funeral Home, 628 Main Street, Bennington, VT 05201. Guest book condolences may be made at www.maharandsonfuneralhome.net
Published in Bennington Banner from January 18 to January 19, 2011
Dot and Arnie Christiansen (dotarnie@earthlink.net) are collecting remembrances of Gene and Ruth for their children. Please feel free to send them a note.
December 31, 2010
I have just received word of the passing of Duane O. Powers. He is the brother of Roy and uncle of Mary Powers Gosden, wife of Walter Gosden of Floral Park New York.
December 13, 2010
Ken Hagberg died from complications of leukemia today, December 13, at
11:30 AM. He died at home, cared for by his wife Anna, in a room
that he had restored himself.
Let it be known to the membership that the last car Ken drove was his 1930 Franklin 145 sedan. Ken put 35,000 miles on that car in the 16 years that he owned it. The car never rode on a trailer except for the day in Freeport, Maine that the driveshaft key broke. He drove that car everywhere.
The car will remain in the family.
David Hagberg
Kenneth Norman Hagberg of Princeton died peacefully at home with UMass Memorial Home Health and Hospice Care on December 13, 2010, at age 81.
He was the son of the late Martin R. and Lillian A. (Toivonen) Hagberg of North Worcester. Fifty-five years ago on October 22nd he married Anna Ottoson Johnson of Holden, and in 1960 they moved to Princeton. He leaves his wife and four children: Peter, wife Felicia, sons Luke and Brett of Fitchburg; David, wife Nancy, sons Neil and Andrew, of Sterling; Amy, husband R. Paul Barton, of Limerick, Maine; Ruth, husband Gary Blodgett, son Jared Kenneth, of Huntington, Vermont. He leaves his brother Paul M. and wife Martha Hagberg of Paxton; a sister Carolyn, husband Gary Setterlund, of Dennis. He also leaves two sisters-in-law, Arlene Johnson-Drawbridge, Janet Estey and a brother-in-law Albert B. Southwick, plus a legion of caring nieces, nephews and their families. He was predeceased by a sister-in-law Shirley J. Southwick and a brother-in-law Elmer J. Johnson, Jr. He also leaves his devoted dog, Lydia.
Ken graduated from the former Commerce High School in 1948, worked part time as a watchmaker.s assistant at Lahde Jewelers and later for the Telephone Company. In 1951 he was inducted into the Army and trained as a Teletype mechanic. He was also a member of the Army Security Agency, stationed for two years in the Philippines at Clark Air Force Base during the Korean War. Once home he worked part time for Bradford Cheney, Keeper of the Worcester City Clocks, and he also worked at State Mutual Life Assurance Co. Kenneth later operated a part time antique clock repair business in his home.
He attended the former Worcester Junior College and later transferred to Clark University where he earned a bachelor.s degree from the Evening College in 1961. For nine years he was the foreman of the Watch Clock Dept. at Simplex Time Recorder Company in Gardner. During this time he studied piano technology with registered piano technician and piano rebuilder Erroll Crowl in Athol. In 1969 he began his own piano business. His son David later joined him under the name K Hagberg and Son, and they tuned, repaired, rebuilt and moved pianos for many years. They were both registered technicians with the Piano Technicians Guild, and Kenneth was president of the Boston Chapter in 1977-78. He retired from piano work on December 31, 2009 with a forty year pin from the PTG. During these years Ken continued his favorite hobby of taking piano lessons with first Martha Ahlstrom and later Janeen Baker.
In 1961 he overhauled the silent Howard Tower Clock in the Goodnow Memorial Building in Princeton where for 48 years he weekly wound the clock and kept it in good repair. In April, 2009 he was honored by the selectmen of the Town of Princeton for his efforts, and the Trustees of Goodnow Memorial Library also honored him by placing a brass plaque listing his name and work by the spiral staircase leading to the clock. In 1954 Ken owned a 1929 Franklin that he and his brother brought to the first Franklin Trek in Syracuse, NY, a car that he sold to buy his Princeton home. In 1993 he replaced it with a restored 1930 Franklin. Some of Ken.s greatest joys were being a member of The H.H. Franklin Club, Inc. and driving his 1930 sedan to the annual week long Franklin Trek in Cazenovia, NY.
For the last ten years Ken and Anna have been members of WISE, Worcester Institute for Senior Education. Since 1987 they have been summer residents of Jonesport, Maine on the ocean.
The Family wishes to thank the many medical personnel for their compassionate care during his illness, especially his doctor, Dr. David Rosenfield and his oncologist and friend, Dr. Doreen Brettler. We also thank his regular home hospice angels, Camille Soucy and Lynne McCrann RN.
Relatives and Friends are invited to attend calling hours from 4 to 7 p.m. on Friday, December 17th, in the Miles Funeral Home, 1158 Main Street (Rte. 122A), Holden. The funeral service will be at his church, Trinity Lutheran Church, 73 Lancaster Street, Worcester at 11 a.m. on Saturday, December 18th. Burial will be private in Woodlawn Cemetery, Princeton. Memorial donations may be made in his name to the Trinity Lutheran Church Alter and Organ Fund, 73 Lancaster Street, Worcester, MA 01609; or to the Trustees of the Goodnow Memorial Building (for the Perpetual Care of the Howard Clock), 2 Town Hall Drive, Princeton, MA 01541.
Website & Guest book: www.milesfuneralhome.com
Club member Art Cazeault died about noon, Saturday, October 16, 2010.
Memories of Arthur Cazeault, from his grandson Bill DiMarco
My Grandfather was born on December 3, 1920. He was number 13 of 14 children. His Mother, Regina (Laroque) Cazeault, and his Father, Hector Cazeault, had a dairy farm on great Rd in North Smithfield where he worked alongside his brothers and sisters.
He attended Mt. St. Charles Academy until the 8th grade when he was forced to leave school to get a job to help support the family. Arthur worked at various other farms in the area until he started to work for Gene Wright, of what is now Wrights Chicken Farm.
Arthur met Doris Josephine Scott, fell in love, and married on May 23, 1942. WWII was in full swing at that time and was drafted, but could not serve due to punctured ear drums. So instead, he worked at the ship yard, building ships for the war effort. As he always has done, he quickly moved through the ranks and became shipyard foreman very quickly.
His wife, Doris became pregnant with my Mom in October of 1943, and became very ill and had to remain in bed for 6 months during the pregnancy. Once my Grandfather found out about the pregnancy, he knew he had a great responsibility so he did what he knew how to best, worked and took a second job at a rubber factory.
Ellen Marie was born in July of 1944. He worked both these jobs until he was hired by Genser Manufacturing as a mechanic to repair all machinery. When he was hired, he knew nothing about the machinery for manufacturing Jewelry, but as was his gift, he taught himself, worked hard and soon became the foreman there as well.
In October of 1947, Doris became pregnant again and once again was forced to remain in bed for most of the 9 months. In July of 1948, his son, Arthur Raymond was born. More responsibility! So once again, he took on a second job.
Arthur left Genser to take a position with Oliver Barret Millwright. Once again, he didn’t know much about conveyor belts and air compressors, but he worked hard and taught himself how. He stayed with Olly, as Arthur called him, for many years.
He then took a job with Franklin Supply Co. in Providence. He was hired to be an on the road, on call repairman to service air compressor that the company sold. Once again, he worked his way up the ladder to become foreman, and just about every customer insisted he be the one to come out for their service.
Through all of this, he also did side work in his favorite spot on earth, his garage.
My Mom married My Dad, William Nicholas DiMarco, in July of 1963. They had three children, My sisters, Keri in 64, Lisa in 65 and William Jr. in 66.
Arthur loved his growing family and always found time to spend with his grandchildren. Sadly, his wife he loved very much died after a long battle with illness in 1970. Sometime after, Arthur met Emelia Picard at a little convenience store she ran in the neighborhood. They were married shortly after and spent the next 30 years together. They built a home together in Millville on Center St. where they lived for most of those years.
True to his nature, Arthur was not satisfied working for someone else. At the ripe old age of 50, he and Millie started A&M Millwright Co. He built a large building on his property behind his home were he ran the business. Through his hard work, the business soon expanded to have 4 employees and 3 service trucks on the road. Arthur always offered 24 hour service to his customers, so he was often out working all night along with his normal 12 hour work day.
After a while, he soon needed an additional building to house his new showroom, offices, and additional service areas. He built this even larger building on the same property. Shortly after that, attached to this new building, he built HIS GARAGE. His heaven, his love.
At the age of 62, he sold his business, and I say this jokingly, he retired. As everyone who has known my grandfather knows, that was dirty word for him. What retirement really meant for my grandfather was he now had the time for one of his life’s great passions, restoring antique cars. He restored 19 of them in all along with countless other cars he worked on for other folks. He restored everything from a 1927 Chevy Milk truck in an exact replica of the one from his father’s farm, to a 1925 Studebaker. He restored Packard’s and Willys Knights. But most of all he loved Air Cooled Franklins.
Just like every other challenge in his life, Arthur kept out living the doctor’s predictions. He has been battling asbestoses lung for as long as I can remember. I remember my Mom telling me that Grandpa doesn’t have too much longer to live over 30 years ago. Unfortunately, the illness had gotten more and more serious over the years and his health slowly declined, but he continued to work in his favorite spot, his garage, until just over a month ago. He finished his last Franklin restoration just three years ago.
His last attack was more than even he could handle, and he finally could fight no more. He died surrounded by his family and friends.
July 12, 2010
Carl Fregonese, 88, of Ridgefield, NJ passed away Tuesday, July 6 at home surrounded by his family. Born in Oderso, Italy on September 12, 1921 to Angelo and Maria Fregonese, the family immigrated to the United States, arriving at Ellis Island in 1930. Carl was a veteran of WWII having served in New Caladonia. He was also an antique car enthusiast, belonging to the New Jersey Region Automobile Club for 50 years, the H.H. Franklin Club for 45 years and was a member of the Half Century Club. In addition to being an active member of the Ridgefield Senior Citizens, Carl had owned and operated Carl's Auto Repair at 465 Bergen Boulevard Palisades Park from 1951-1983. Carl is predeceased by his first wife, Angelina Fregonese and his brother George Fregonese. Survived by his loving wife of 41 years, Fay Fregonese of Ridgefield New Jersey, two sons and their spouses, Richard and Jeannie Fregonese of Pearl River, New York, David and Iori Fregonese of Tucson, AZ, his brothers Bruno Fregonese, Giulie Fregonese and wife Lina, his grandchildren Brian, Michael, Lisa, David and Steven Fregonese and great-granchildren Alyssa and Gina Fregonese. The family will be receiving friends Friday, July 9 between 1 and 6 PM at the Macagna Funeral Home 495 Anderson Avenue Cliffside Park. Funeral Services will be held Saturday, July 10 at St. Matthews Church Ridgefield NJ at 10am followed by an interment at Fairview Cemetery. Published in The Record and Herald News on July 8, 2010.May 11, 2010
The Zimmermans have let us know that Smith (Smitty) Weeks, a long-time member of the Club who was active in west coast activities, recently passed away.
February 14, 2010
Long time member and dear friend Robert Grim passed away Friday, February 12th. He is survived by his wife Ellen, daughter Nancy, son Howard, and several grandchildren. He lived a full life with an indomitable spirit and love of Franklins. He will be missed by all, but his spirit lives on.
Friend, James Crippen
WebMaster: Bob Grim has a dear friend, his love of Franklin cars and Franklin history was outstanding. He and I sat for hours talking Franklin cars at both the Trek and Westrek over the years. His support of the club was always both with funds and advise was the best. Bob was the Franklin Spirit !!!! We will miss sitting under the tree in Caz talking Franklin history.
Jan. 9, 2010
Our friend, Fred Sumner, passed away on January 9, 2010 at 6:00 a.m. He fought his pancreatic cancer for over a year plus but never gave up his love for cars and to pursue new collections. He became a Franklin fan when I found a Franklin at an auction in Branson, MO and later we bought four more as a package deal. He really enjoyed his '29 series 130 sedan. Together we kept it running and took it to several Midwest Franklin meets throughout the years.
During my reign as President of the Midwest Region, Fred was the Vice President and continued under the present President, Ralph Gack. Fred always volunteered his help and greatly enjoyed all the Franklin meets he attended. He was also active in local car clubs as well as the Packard Car Club.
Fred and I often worked on our cars together and enjoyed parties and family gatherings and/or social events. At least once a week, we had lunch together and usually discussed the auto and its changes throughout the years.
Fred was a true friend and we shall all miss him. Our sympathy is extended to his wife, Daphne, and their family. He will be missed but not forgotten.
Jim and Hazel Wade
May 23 2009
Just received word from Tim Miller that Walter Grove passed away Sunday May 17th of cancer he was 74.
Walter H. Grove 74, of Coplay, formerly of Apalachin, New York, died Sunday, May 17, 2009 in St. Lukes Hospital, Allentown Campus. He was the husband of Jane C. (Lewis) Grove. The couple celebrated their 49th wedding anniversary in November 14. Born in Manasquan, New Jersey, on January 25, 1935, Walter was the son of the late Walter H. Jr. and Alice M. (Smock) Grove. He graduated from Rider University, class of 1963, with a bachelors degree in business administration. Walter retired from IBM, Endicott, N.Y., after 35 years of service. He also owned and operated Tioga Stainless, Apalachin. He was a member of Park Terrace Community United Methodist Church, Apalachin. An avid antique car enthusiast, Walter was a member of the Horseless Carriage Club of America, the Antique Automobile Club of America, the Veteran Motor Car Club of America, the Olde Tyme Car Club and PATC. He was a life member of Founders and Patriots. Survivors: Wife; sons, Steven L. Grove of Poway, California, Allen W. Grove and his wife, Amy Jacobson, of Alfred, New York; sister, Jeannette Leinbach of Winter Park, Florida; grandchildren, Nathan and Abby; nieces, nephew. Services: A memorial service will be held 11 a.m. Friday, May 22, 2009 in the Heintzelman Funeral Home Inc., 4906 Route 309, Schnecksville with Barry F. Jacobson, M.Div., officiating. Visitation period from 10-11 a.m. Friday in the funeral home. Private interment will be held in First Presbyterian Church, Pennington, N.J. Contributions: In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society and/or NOVA EMS, both in care of the funeral home, P.O. Box 196, Schnecksville, PA 18078-0196.
April 19, 2009
Kenneth Monteith
Ken was a long time club member from the east coast, he attend many
Treks and was a big help to Mr. Frank Hall Gardner
MONTEITH, Kenneth Of Needham and Osterville, April 12, 2009.
Beloved husband for 65 years of Gloria (Brand) Monteith. Father of
Cheryl Mountain and Bruce Monteith and his wife Candida all of
Needham. Brother of the late John Drummond Monteith. Grandfather of
Christopher and Tyler Mountain and Kyle and Craig Monteith. Also
survived by his faithful dog Suki. Visiting hours will be held in
the Eaton Funeral Home 1351 Highland Ave NEEDHAM on Wednesday April
15 from 4-7 PM. A Memorial Service will be held at the Christ
Episcopal Church, 1132 Highland Ave Needham on Thursday April 16 at
11:00 AM. Interment with Military Honors in the Christ Church
Memorial Garden. In lieu of flowers donations in Ken's name may be
made to the Christ Episcopal Church or to the Friends of the
Needham Elderly 83 Pickering St, Needham MA 02492. Graduate of
Brookline HS Class of 1941, US Navy World War II veteran, retired
women's apparel Manufacturers Rep, longtime member of Christ
Episcopal Church and member of Needham Retired Men's Glee Club. For
directions, obit and guestbook www.eatonfunerahomes.com Eaton
Funeral Home 781-444-0201
March 25, 2009
Cecil Shanklin 1918 - 2009
Long time member Cecil Shanklin, was born near Cedar Rapids, Iowa July 25, 1918 and passed away peacefully at home in Loomis, California January 25, 2009 at the age of 90. After a 20 year Navy career, retiring in 1958, Cecil worked in the defense missile industry and related fields. For the last decade before retirement in 1984 Cecil was in charge of all the emergency diesel generators and pumps in Sacramento County.
Cecil rescued his 1931 Franklin model 153 convertible coupe from the back of a wrecking yard in San Diego in 1952 while he was stationed there in the Navy. He had to clean up and reorganize the whole lot on week ends in order to safety remove the car. The Franklin was complete and in relatively good condition, he had it running in a few hours. The first engine overhaul was done with the car aboard ship (with the USN approval). Cecil has done considerable frame up restoration work on the car while residing in Loomis for the last 48 years and has participated in many Club events in the past.
Survived by his brother Don, daughter Lynn, son Errol and three grandchildren. Anyone interested in acquiring "Shanklin's Franklin" please contact Errol Shanklin at 408-264-0413
Don Shanklin
February 26, 2009
I wanted to pass along news of the death of Bill Tuthill of Binghamton, New York. Bill died on Thursday February 26th at the age of 82 after battling a long illness. He joined the Franklin Club in the early 1970's after acquiring his original 1933 Olympic which he brought to the Trek every year since. Bill was also the Trek Treasurer for many years.
Bill was a true old car enthusiast who began collecting in the early 1950's. He owned an impressive variety of cars throughout his life including Packards, Cadillacs and Lincolns, but his favorite cars were Model T Fords and his Franklin Olympic. I was introduced to the Franklin Club by Bill and attended my first Trek with Bill in 1977 at the age of 16. Bill allowed me to frequently drive his Model T Fords and his 1925 11-A Touring all around our home town and then to the Trek several times. I even had a key to his garage. Ten years later I bought the 11-A from Bill as my first Franklin. That kind of encouragement and generosity extended to many young guys to get them involved with the old car hobby.
Bill was a soft-spoken, mild mannered gentleman who was always generous with his time for other people. He was a father figure to me when I needed such guidance in my life. He leaves his wife Nancy, three children Wes, Willy and Amy, as well as two grand children. He was and will be missed by all who knew him.
— Scott Dwyer
I am extremely saddened by the passing of Bill Tuthill. His
Olympic was one of the first Franklins I ever drove at the Trek. I
always asked him about that car, but it was still a big surprise
when he called me in 2005 and offered the Olympic to me. I am sure
every one in the club could see how happy I have been with Bill's
car. Though I have had it now for 4 years it will always be "The
Tuthill Car".
Dave Phillips
WebMaster: Bill was always a dear friend ready to help a new President, he did just that with me in the early 1990s. We will all miss him
Frank Hantak
January 24, 2009
Just got a call from Bob Westfall saying that Barbara Kantner
died about 9 am this morning (1-23-09). She was born in 1934 and
had been a member since 1981. Apparently Barbara may have felt some
kind of a premonition about how little time she had left because,
despite ill health, she insisted on going to the 2008 Trek. On the
way home from the Trek she had to stop off at a hospital because
she was so ill.
As to the recent events, Al had gone to the store on Wednesday morning and was out about half an hour. When he returned, he found Barbara unconscious on the couch. She was rushed to the hospital where she eventually regained consciousness. She was able to converse with Frank and her daughters, who got there in time to see her. She was in pain but conscious. She died peacefully.
She is being cremated, and there was a memorial service today. We still don't know where or when. Kathy and Andy
Andy Wittenborn (This is all the information we have right now, if you want more call Bob. If we receive more it will be listed here - if a member wishes to do a write something about Barbara, please e-mail to me. )
December 26, 2008
More on Dr. Barbee:
BARBEE - Richard Franklin, 77, retired Radiologist, passed away Sunday, December 21, 2008. Born December 2, 1931, to James Grover and Anna Laura Johnston Barbee as an adored only child in Bristow, OK. Always the exceptional student, he kept involved in many activities. Earning scholarships, he attended TU. While there he married Margaret Ann Roark, his wife of over 50 years, and started his family before graduating. While attending OU Medical School he published an article in the Journal of Ophthalmology. After graduation, he interned at Mercy Hospital in Oklahoma City. Afterwards he was promoted to serve as Medical officer in charge at Public Health Indian Hospital. Later receiving his certification in Radiology and Nuclear Medicine. He joined Tulsa Radiology Associates working there for over 30 years. He served on numerous medical societies, Kiwanis, clubs and boards over the years, keeping active in his church throughout his life. He diligently pursued many hobbies, antique cars, fountain pens, photography, rock collecting, gardening and many more, being a member of several clubs. A man of great intelligence and generous spirit with many interests will truly be missed by family and friends. Richard is survived by: his son, Rick Barbee of Tulsa, OK; daughter, Janet Hicks and husband, Dave of Bixby, OK; son, David Barbee and wife Michelo of Indianapolis, IN, daughter, Melanie Shirley and husband, George of California; daughter, Mary Elizabeth Barbee and husband, Ralph Winslow of Connecticut; daughter, Jennifer Bowers and husband, Rick of Glenpool, OK; 16 grand children; 2 great-grandchildren. Preceded in death by his parents; and wife, Margaret. In lieu of flowers, friends may contribute to the American Diabetes Foundation. Memorial service will be 2:00 P.M., Saturday, December 27, 2008, at Southminster Presbyterian Church, 3500 S. Peoria. Moore's Southlawn 663-2233 share memories at www.moorefuneral.com Richard Franklin Barbee
December 23/24, 2008
Your web master just received this sad news, we will check to
see if we can find more: With sad news I bear.. Dr Richard Franklin
Barbee passed away Sunday Dec 21, 2008 - Richard Franklin Barbee,
77, doctor, died Sunday. Services pending. Moore's Southlawn, Tulsa
- - found in today's Tulsa paper (Dec 24, 2008) Barbee, Richard
Franklin, 77, retired radiologist, died Sunday. Memorial service 2
p.m. Saturday ( Dec 27, 2008), South Minster Presbyterian Church.
Moore's Southlawn
Dr. Richard Franklin Barbee on the right
November 24, 2008
Betty Klineburger from Issaquah, Washington passed away on November 10, 2008 at the age of 84. She and her husband, Gene have been active in the Franklin Club for more than 45 years with attendance at many Westreks and Treks. Betty enjoyed wearing vintage clothing when touring and had a variety of interests in addition to the antique car hobby. We extend our sympathy to Gene and the Klineburger family.
October 14, 2008
It is with deep sorrow that I learned today that Allan Franklin,
a long time member of the club, has passed away. He died very
quickly after being diagnosed recently with Pancreatic Cancer.
Allan was a previous editor of the Air Cooled News and attended
many treks and Westreks. He owned a 1923 Demi Sedan and recently
purchased a 1931 Salon Special. He will be sorely missed by his
many friends.
Services will be held Friday, October 17, 2008, at 10:30 AM as follows:
Friday, October 17, 2008
10:30 AM
Mt. Sinai Memorial Park
6150 Mt. Sinai Drive
Simi Valley, CA 93063
Our thoughts are with his wife, Elaine, and the entire family.
Lee Webb
This is from Bill Charpier
Jack H. Morris, 77, of Medford, Ore., passed away Tuesday, Oct.
7, 2008, at his home. Arrangments by Rogue Val ley Funeral
Alternatives. (541) 770-6505.Jack Morris, 77, passed away20Oct. 7,
2008, at his home. He was born in Spokane, Wash., to John Edward
Morris and Mabel Carolina (Sim) Morris. Jack spent his early years
in Omak, Wash., where he graduated from Omak High. He is survived
by his wife of 56 years, the former Juanita Ruth Carpenter. In the
1970s, Jack built and flew in an experimental airplane. He enjoyed
taking friends and family for rides in it over the Rogue Valley.
Jack taught Industrial Education at South Medford High. When he
retired, he assembled a 1914 Model T using both original and new
parts. Jack and Juanita drove the "Model T" in several parades and
Sunday drives. Prior to his death, Jack was restoring a rare 1928
Franklin 12B Sedan.
In addition to restoring old cars, Jack was a member of a variety
of associations, The State of Jefferson Antique Car Club, Rogue
Valley Old Timers Car Club, Retired Educators, and a life member of
the National Rifle Association.
Along with his wife, Jack is survived by his son, Timothy Morris,
of Portland, Ore.; daughters, Ann Wylam (Jay) of Salem, Ore., and
Janet Sheets, of Portland, Ore.; six grandchildren, Holly Wylam
Klein (Lawrence) of Seattle, Wash., Benjamin Wylam, of San Jose,
Calif., Dr. Dustin Wylam (Eteri), of Bonaire, Ga., Emmett Wylam and
Jason Sheets of Salem, Ore., Erin Sheets of Portland, Ore., and two
great-grandsons.
Jack was preceded in death by his sister, Lela Jean Morris. Per
Jack's request there will be no services.
Ocbober 3, 2008
It is with sadness that I inform you that George Peckover died on September 23, 2008. His obituary in today's Toronto Globe and Mail is below. George was a Director Emeritus; Past President of the Pierce-Arrow Society between 1966-1969. He was presented with his PAS 50 Year Gold Pin this past spring.
His wife Mary past away March 1, 2008. They had been married 67 years.
George was one of the "Founding Father's" of the Society. Mary and George attended most of our annual meets up until about ten years ago when health issues prohibited them from coming. George was not only a Pierce-Arrow enthusiast but was very much involved with the Franklin Club over the years.
PECKOVER, George Horace
Peacefully, on Tuesday, September 23, 2008, at the age of 94,
surrounded by family members, George will be greatly missed by his
remaining family and friends. Loving husband for 66 years of Mary
Gertrude (deceased March 1, 2008). Dear brother of Lionel (Sybil),
of Kingston. Dear father of Ann (George), Bob (Norma), Gord
(Janet), and Bruce (Ruth). Much loved grandfather of Brent (Erin),
Julie (Tom), David, Geoffrey, Caroline, Donald, and Mary and
great-grandfather of Emily, James, Abigail and Ethan. A memorial
service will be held on a date yet to be determined. In lieu of
flowers, donations to the Alzheimer Society would be
appreciated.
February 23, 2008
Longtime Franklin Club member Dorothy Roberts of Pittsfield, ME, died peacefully on Thursday, February 21, 2008. She attended many Treks over the years as well as traveling to Midwest Region meets and the Westrek several times. She loved the Trek and its people and looked forward to going every year. She would always have her suitcase packed in June for the annual event.
Please, no sadness or cards. Because of Alzheimer's Disease, she happily didn't know where she was for several years and she didn't suffer in the end.
Dorothy and Max in 2005
If anyone would like to make a donation in memory of Dorothy, a
choice would be:
Creative Arts for Kids
25 Woburn Street
Reading, MA 01867
Dorothy's grandson, Max, has taken violin lessons there for almost
2 years.
Visit their website at www.CreativeArtsForKids.org.
CRESCENZI, ARMAND January 23, 2008
Armand (Chris) Crescenzi M.D., 82 of Pocantico Hills passed away on
January 18th, 2008. He was born in New York to Joseph and Grace
(DiBennetto) Crescenzi and was raised in The Bronx and Marlboro,
New York. He attended Manhattan College and SUNY Downstate Medical
School. He served in the Marines during WWII. He began his career
in research doing comparative studies in animals and man. He was a
Thoracic and Vascular surgeon in Westchester. He had many interests
besides medicine. He loved his family, gardening, old cars, dancing
and his volunteer work at Rosary Hill. He will be missed by all who
knew him. He is survived by his wife, Margaret Brown, his daughters
Caroline, Susan and Debra, many in-laws, nieces, nephews, cousins
and friends. He is pre-deceased by his wives Caroline Lydecker,MD,
and Katherine Louise Friedmann, MD and his brothers Adolph, Benito
and Gene. There will be a memorial service Saturday, January 26th
at 11 AM at the Presbyterian Church in Irvington, NY. In lieu of
flowers donations may be made to Phelps Hospice or a charity of
your choice. Arrangements are being handled by Beecher Funeral
Home, Pleasantville. To submit online condolences please visit
www.beecherfh.com.
January 22/23, 2008
Nancy Barker
The Franklin family is very important to us and I really appreciate their support.
The celebration of life service will be held here at OceanView on Thursday February 7th at 2 PM.
Address is:
Hilltop Lodge at Oceanview
20 Blueberry Lane
Falmouth, Maine 04205
Donations in Nancy's memory may be made to:
Maine Parkinson Society
5 Bucknam Road Suite # 1
Falmouth, Maine 04105
Word has reach your WebMaster,
One of our and the Franklin Club's dearest of friend has last her battle, Nancy Barker died this morning (January 22, 2008) Nancy and Carl were a team that we all wish we could have been like, holding hands as they walked down the green at the Trek or Carl taking Nancy out for a loving walk at Hershey. We all love you our dear sweet Nancy, we know now you are free from all the pain you have had. Our prays will be with you.
Frank Hantak
January 4, 2008
We just received word that Arthur Staley, brother of George Staley, passed a way earlier this week service will be January 5, 2008. I wish I had more but at this time that is all we have. Art was a long time member of the Franklin Club, my first meeting with him was in Michigan when he was looking at a few Franklins for George. (He did purchase the Franklins)
Services for Adrian will be at 11 AM on Monday, January 7, 2008 at the Puffer Methodist Church in Morrisville, VT
January 3, 2008
This is not a good way to start the new year, last night we last a dear friend Adrian West, after about 10 months of spending time in the hospital and weekly visits he last his battle. Adrian was one of my close friends, he gave a lot to the Franklin Club and many other clubs and groups all over the world. We spent hours sitting under the tree in Caz talking about the cars, the history and just life. At Hershey he always found the time to stop sit and talk again plus all the phone calls and notes all year long. I'll miss him picking on me, giving me a hard time but being the gentleman he really waste Franklin Club has some of the best people in the world and Adrian topped the list. We last a man with the real Franklin Spirit.
I hope to have more in the next few days, your WebMaster Frank Hantak
October 23, 2007
Your webmaster has been informed a dear friend and long time
club member Alex Marshall passed away last night - Friday nigh, a
request has been made from Beth Marshall In lieu of flowers,
memorial contributions appreciated to Central Methodist University,
411 Central Methodist Square, Fayette, MO 65248 or Epworth Children
& Family Services, 110 North Elm Avenue, St. Louis, MO
63119.
Sept. 1, 2007
Harold M. Sharon, longtime Glastonbury resident, died Saturday (August 25, 2007) four days before his 76th birthday. He is survived by his 100th year old mother, Rachel (Maynard) Sharon; sister Eleanor Rogers; wife Joanna (Little) Sharon; and their children Melanie, Richard, and Diana. He will be missed by his grandchildren Maddie, Ben, Anna, and Julie. He spent his career as an engineer at Pratt & Whitney, and Turbo Power and Marine, divisions of United Technologies. He had many interests, especially antique cars. He wrote for several hobby publications about the mechanics of very early cars. Many people phoned him for advice on "how to keep'em running," and no one ever saw him pass a fellow antique auto driver in distress without stopping to offer advice, tools and assistance. When he was very sick a call for advice always brightened him up. He was a great father, a great friend, and a great husband. He met his wife Jo in 1950. They celebrated their 53rd anniversary last Valentine's Day. He never wanted a traditional burial; he said the dead shouldn't crowd out the living. He didn't want a funeral, but he always told us when I die I want this epitaph in the newspaper "Having been in heaven since 1950, I have now gone to earth." He loved life, and he joked with a dear friend just days before his death "don't cry for me, I've already had more fun in my life than you'll ever have in yours. Memorial donations may be made to VNA Hospice, ATTN Memorial Gifts, 103 Woodland Street, Hartford, CT 06105. The family is extremely grateful to these warm and caring folks for keeping him comfortable during his last days.
July 20, 2007
We just heard via Peter Ziegler, who is currently in Africa, that Joe Hafner passed away yesterday. Joe was one of the West Coast most active members for many years. He participated in many of the early Westreks and was always a great source of knowledge and help on our technical challenges. He will be missed.
Chet Zimmerman
The Funeral will be SATURDAY, JULY 21 AT 11 AM IN MT. SHASTA,
CA
LOCATION IS MT. SHASTA CHAPEL AND MEMORIAL PARK
Lee Webb
May 21, 2007
Owen Franklin Hoyt
Owen Franklin Hoyt Born in Darien, CT, in 1933, Owen attended the
University of Connecticut and served in the U.S. Army from 1953 -
55 on active duty in Germany. He has made his home in San Francisco
since the 1960s. A man of many interests and passions, Owen loved
old movies, travel, but above all, old cars. Owen had an
encyclopedic knowledge of classic and antique automobiles and was
an officer of the Milestone Motor Co. of San Francisco. But it was
people who mattered most to Owen; he has been legendary in his
generosity to his friends, who all feel a great void with his loss.
He died of a stroke in Sedona, Arizona, during a car caravan. He is
survived by his brother John T. Hoyt, Jr. of Randolph, VT; and
cousins, Mrs. Parry Grogan and Dr. David M. Reed of New Canaan, CT,
Chip Reed of Fairfield, CT, Charles W. Haines, Jr. of Fort Worth,
TX, and Elizabeth Studebaker of Dawsonville, GA. A memorial
gathering for family and fiends will be held later. Published in
the San Francisco Chronicle from 5/20/2007 - 5/21/2007
May 19, 2007
Nancy and I are at the IL Region AACA Spring Tour at Moline, IL.. Last night, we received a phone call from Laverne Smazik, on our answering machine, stating that Adolph Gerst passed away on Tues.. Either the wake or the funeral is to be on Sun, I'm not sure which one.
Lee Nelson
(WebMaster: Adolph was a long time member on the Franklin Club and the Midwest Region, he and his family put on many Midwest Franklin meets in Iowa over the years. Adolph also always felt the 1930 Franklin he owned was once driven or owned by Lindbergh. A few years ago he had it repainted to the color he felt would on the Franklin when Lindbergh drove it)
May 3, 2007
Word just came into the WebMaster's desk, this is all we know
right now. If you have more information please let us know:
Owen Hoyt had a stroke while on the Classic Car Caravan in Arizona.
Steve Roake told me he had a very serious stroke at dinner and is
in a Flagstaff hospital in intensive care.
From member Kidd - He had a "brain bleed" and a shunt was
installed. The last word we had on Saturday May 5th was that they
were working to get his blood pressure down. It happened in Sedona
and he was taken to the Flagstaff hospital. His brother was flying
out from Vermont and his friends on the Caravan were not allowed
access after about Tuesday. May 7, 2007
April 8, 2007
Word has just reached the webmasters desk of the passing of the oldest Midwest Region member Louise Nelson. One month from today she would have been 101 years young. We hope to have more information soon.
Dear Franklin Club Members:
I have received word of the passing of long-time H.H. Franklin Club member Gerard (Jerry) P. Gray. Jerry, 66, passed away at his home in Rochester Hills, Michigan, on Monday, February 12, 2007, after a lengthy and courageous struggle with Pulmonary Fibrosis.
Jerry, his wife Christine, and their three children attended numerous Treks, the most recent being 2006. It took a heroic effort on Jerry's part to participate in this, his final Trek, as he was on oxygen at the time.
Jerry and his family also were active in the Midwest Region of the H.H. Franklin Club. In the late 1990s, when Jerry and Chris were in Germany, their son and two daughters organized a Midwest Region meet, held in Rochester, Michigan. All who attended agreed that it was a great success! Jerry and the other members of his family also were active in bicycling, riding classic "high wheelers" at numerous car meets, particularly those held at Greenfield Village, Michigan.
Jerry owned two Franklin cars. The first was a 1929 Series 135; the second a 1909 Model G touring which he was restoring at the time of his death.
My wife Sue and I have lost a fine friend in Jerry, as has the Club lost a loyal Franklinite. He will be very much missed.
Sinclair Powell
Gerard (Jerry) Paul Gray, 66, passed away peacefully at his Rochester Hills home on Monday, February 12 after a protracted struggle with Pulmonary Fibrosis.
A funeral mass will be celebrated at St. Joseph Catholic Church, 1828 Jay St., Detroit on Thursday, February 15, 2007 at 11 AM with an instate of 10:30 AM. The family will receive friends Wednesday 2-9 PM with a 7 PM Rosary at the Potere-Modetz Funeral Home, 339 Walnut Blvd., Rochester. Inurnment Guardian Angel Cemetery.
Suggested memorials to St. Joseph Catholic Church, Detroit or the National Jewish Medical Center, Denver, Colorado. Online guestbook www.modetzfuneralhomes.com
Funeral Home Information:
Potere-Modetz (funeral home) big white building
339 Walnut Boulevard Rochester, MI 48307
Phone: 248-651-8137 Fax: 248-651-5017
January 2, 2007
Henry E. Krusen, 85, of Allentown, peacefully passed away Wednesday, December 20 in his home. He was the husband of the late Betty Krusen and enjoyed 59 years of marriage with a full life of family, friends, hobbies, travel and robust health and energy. Hank was born and lived in the Philadelphia area for most of his life. He worked for Bell of Pennsylvania in various capacities from a lineman to management until retirement. He was a Bronze Star decorated Army veteran in the European theater of World War II. He was a long time member of the Antique Automobile Club of American. He owned several antique cars and served in various capacities in local and national antique car clubs. In the A.A.C.A., he was a class judge in the early 70s, vice president of national class judging, 74-81; A.A.C.A. National Board Director, 75-81 and National A.A.C.A. president in 1978. He was considered an innovative leader during his various tenures at A.A.C.A. In retirement, he remained an active worker for various local and national events.
Survivors: Daughter, Virginia Krusen-Phelan of Allentown; son, Henry E. Krusen Jr. of Prairie Village, Kan.; three grandchildren, Devon Phelan, Dain Phelan and Lindsey Krusen.
Services: The family will hold a gathering for those who have been touched by Hank's life in the spring.
Contributions: May be made in Hank's memory to the A.A.C.A. Library, National Headquarters, 501 W. Governor Road, P.O. Box 417, Hershey, PA 17003-0417.
November 2, 2006
Very sad news about Peter Kunan,
KUNAN, of Holbrook, November 2, 2006, Peter C. Kunan. Beloved son of Leo and Pauline (House) Kunan of Holbrook. Devoted brother of Paula Tavares and her husband Wayne of Plymouth and John Kunan of Holbrook. Dear Uncle of Lori Phinney and Amy Zeoli both of Plymouth, Rachel Kunan, Thomas Kunan and John Kunan all of Holbrook. Great uncle of Andrew, Nicholas and Ava Zeoli. Reposing at the Cartwright Funeral Home, 69 So. Franklin St.,(Rte 37) Holbrook. A Funeral Service will be held on Monday at 10:30 AM in the Funeral Home. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend. Visiting hours Sunday 4:00 - 8:00 PM. Burial in Blue Hill Cemetery, Braintree. Peter passed away at his home in of Holbrook Nov. 2nd, at the age of 52. He was a lifelong resident of Holbrook and graduate of Holbrook High School Class of 72. Peter was an excellent Grower for his families business, Kunan's Greenhouse of Holbrook. He owned and restored Brass Era Pre( WWI Pre-1916) Antique Cars. Avid Antique Auto Buff, he owned a 1905 Franklin and 1928 Franklin 1910 Buick. Past president and Secretary of Franklin Air Cooled Auto Club and Member of South Shore Auto Club. Peter was a man who most enjoyed being with his family.
From his Franklin family, he will be missed, we send our love.
If you would like to sign an online guestbook for Peter
Kunan's
family, go to:
http://www.legacy.com/SouthOfBoston-Enterprise/GB/GuestbookView.aspx?
PersonID=19810222
I just went online and am very sorry to hear about Peter. June, Rob, and I only knew Peter for about 6 or 7 years, a much shorter time than many members of the club. What I remember about Peter was his upbeat attitude and his very pleasant personality. Peter was always willing to give people rides in the car he brought to the trek. I remember the first year I was at the Trek, a newcomer. I had met Peter at a Westrek the year before, and he sort of took me under his wing. He had his 1905 at the trek that year, and when he took me out for a run along the lake, I remember him saying to me to turn my baseball cap around. I didn't fully understand until he accelerated in the '05. I would have lost my had if he hadn't told me to turn it around! That car really went fast for one built in 1905. We must have been doing 40-45.
We will miss Peter very much. He was a quality individual and a great asset to the club. Our thoughts are with his family.
June, Lee, and Rob Webb
July 30, 2006
Long-time Franklin Club member Bill Gewand passed away at the age of 95 on July 30, 2006 after a short illness. We will miss him.
Hospice of Lancaster County, 685 Good Drive, P.O. Box 4125, Lancaster, PA 17604-4125.
Bill Gerald, a personnel friend and long time Franklin Club member, the life of all parties at the Trek every year, has left us. How can we forget Bill at 92 riding on the back of a Harley all over Caz, smiling and having the time of his life. At dinner on Friday nights when it was asked for members to stand, than be seated as the years of member grew. Who was the only one standing at the end, Bill Gewand. For some many years that I cannot remember he drove his Franklin from Buffalo, NY to Caz. Leaving the Franklin on the green always with the biggest smile on his face. Bill, we all will miss your smile, the star in your eye and the kind word you gave anyone walking past you. We will love you forever!
Frank Hantak, WebMaster
April 3, 2006
Donald P. Winzer, 67, of Macungie, died March 30, 2006. He was the
widower of Judith A. (Rau) Winzer. For more than 30 years, Donald
served as the director of music for Cathedral of St. Catharine of
Siena, Allentown. Most recently, he was the organist and choir
director for St. Peters Lutheran Church, Allentown. In his long
career as a musician, he was the director of church choirs and many
area and regional German choruses including the Lehigh Saengerbund
and Mack Truck choruses. His passion for music was also coupled
with a passion for cars. He was a long time member of the Franklin
Club and other area car clubs. He was also a member of Upper
Milford Fire Company. Survivors: Son, Donald P. Winzer Jr. and his
wife, Lani; daughters, the Rev. Donna, wife of the Rev. Brad Brown,
Dr. Jane Winzer and Suzanne Kompass; grandchildren, Don, Luke,
Justin and Nathan; sister, Ethel Devarics; brothers, George and his
wife, Jane Winzer and Elmer Winzer. Services: 1 p.m. Thursday,
April 6, 2006 in Grace Lutheran Church, 28 W. Main Street,
Macungie. Former choral members are welcomed to join in song during
the services. Viewing from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the church.
Interment in Emmaus Moravian Cemetery. Contributions: May be made
to Grace Lutheran Church, 28 W. Main Street, Macungie, PA
18062.
Published in the Morning Call on 4/2/2006.
March 26, 2006
John Tschopp passed away at 4:15 this Sat. afternoon. Roy had to work today, so after he returned home, Nancy and I picked him up. We got to the hospital, and found John's room. The door was closed, so I knocked. there was no answer, so we all waked in. The light was off, and John's head was turned to the left, away from the door. I called out his name a couple of times, but received no response. Nancy noticed that the heart monitor was on, but had only a blank screen. we left the room, and asked at the nearby nurse's station if the family was about, as earlier today, John' daughter in-law had told me that someone was with John 24 hours. The station nurse called the nurse responsible for John's room over, and she informed us that the family had left. When we voiced surprise at their leaving, she further stated that they had all left after John had died at 4:15 P.M.. We had arrived at the room at approximately 5:05 P.M.. From the hospital, we proceeded to John's house in Carillon. We weren't sure if we should stop by, but did. It proved to be the right thing to do. The family was very happy to see us, and were a little dismayed to know that an hour after passing, John was still lying in the bed and no one had even pulled the sheet over his face. There will be a three hour visitation at a Plainfield funeral home, on either Monday or Tuesday afternoon. Then, John will be taken to Lafayette, IN, for burial in the family plot.
On the way home, we discussed John's history in the Franklin Club, and decided that he got involved in the Midwest Region about 1962.
Roy, my mother, and I have known him for over forty years. If memory serves me correctly, he and Maxine ceased to be regular Midwest Region Meet attendees sometime in the 1980s. I believe their last Franklin Meet was when Roy left after the Sat. tour, drove down to Barrington, and brought them up to the Sat. evening banquet at the last Rockford Meet.
Lee Nelson
Dr. George S. Boyer, 89, of Allentown, died Nov. 15 in Lehigh Valley Hospital, Salisbury Township. He was the husband of Betty M. (Deibert) Boyer. They celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary in September. Born in Allentown, he was a son of the late Frank S. and Caroline G. (Belzner) Boyer. He was an innovator in many respects as a surgeon and was among the first in the area to perform outpatient surgery. He was in private practice for more than 50 years in Allentown and was head of the Allentown Hospital outpatient clinic, dealing with peripheral-vascular disease. He graduated from Allentown High School in 1933, Muhlenberg College in 1937, Temple University Medical School in 1941 and University of Pennsylvania Graduate School of Medicine in 1956. He served his internship at Allentown Hospital in 1942. He served on the Firemans Civil Service Board, was past president of the Rotary Club in Allentown and was on the board of directors of Good< Shepherd Home. He was a long standing member of the H H Franklin Club. He< served as Lehigh County Coroner from 1949 to 1951. As an Army Air Corps veteran of World War II, he served 29 months as a flight surgeon with the 316th Troop Carrier Group, which fought with the First Airborne Army in Europe and Africa. He was awarded four Presidential Citations and nine combat stars. Survivors: Wife; daughters, Susan E. Kretz of Sarasota, Fla., Wendy J., wife of Louis Seier of Londonderry, Vt., Nanette G., wife of Henry Nevis of Montecito, Calif.; brother, Dr. Frank of Naples, Fla.; grandchildren, Samantha, Andrew, Kasey. Services: private. Arrangements, Trexler Funeral Home Inc., 1625 Highland St., Allentown.
www.trexlerfuneralhome.com. Contributions: In lieu of flowers, to Drs. Frank and George Boyer Scholarship Fund, Muhlenberg College c/o the funeral home 18102.
June 16, 2005
Genevieve D. Staley
June 14, 2005 Genevieve D. Staley, 85, of DeRuyter, passed away
peacefully Tuesday at Cortland Memorial Hospital, surrounded by her
immediate family members. She was born April 3, 1920, in Deposit,
and had lived with her< husband and family on Long Island,
Armonk, and Stamford, Conn., then retired with her husband George
to their native roots in DeRuyter. Mrs. Staley was a graduate of
DeRuyter High School and State University at Albany with a degree
in teaching. She taught English for several years before raising
her children. Genevieve was an avid reader, educator, and nurturing
mother and< wife. She was a distinctive woman of her time.
Surviving: husband, George;< sons, Claude (Lynn) of Rye and
James (Fausta) of Katonah; son-in-law, Lawrence Loffredo of
DeRuyter; sisters, Virginia Cook, Nancy, Judy and Peggy Sawyer;
brothers, Don, Sam and David Sawyer; seven grandchildren. She was
predeceased by her daughter, Jeanne Loffredo. Services: Friday at
noon at Smith Funeral Home, DeRuyter. Burial, Hillcrest Cemetery,
DeRuyter. Calling< hours Thursday from 4 to 7 p.m. at the
funeral home. Contributions: DeRuyter Public Library.
Published in the Syracuse Post Standard on 6/16/2005.
April 21, 2005
I am sorry to report that Fenton Meredith passed away at 6:00 this morning. He had been in failing health for some time.
Many of us around the Club today may not know that Fenton was a founding Club member and served as a director, board advisor and Vice president during the early, formative years of the Club. He also researched and wrote historical articles about the early developments of the Franklin engines and the Renault Hood period. His research and articles remain the definitive source for such information.
Services will be in Youngstown Ohio on Saturday at 11:00 AM with
calling hours preceding the service.
I will pass on any more information as it comes. I know Rollie Kemp
is in Youngstown. I will try to reach him for more info.
tom
The charity for donations is:
St. James Meeting House Restoration Project
c/o Boardman Park
375 Boardman-Poland Rd.
Boardman, OH 44512
....unless the Franklin Club has a memorial fund that anyone would prefer to make contributions to.
Rollie sent a beautiful arrangement from the Franklin Club.
April 15, 2005
I have been informed the Franklin family lost a very dear friend on Sunday, John Hasslen, Jr. As all of you know John was Mr. Franklin with all the parts he manufactured over the years, he was a dear friend who attend most Franklin meets from the west coast to the east coast. At Caz in August, you knew where to find John, just walk in the parts department and look to the left and John was there with all his Franklin parts. John has the Franklin Spirit, he would help anyone any time of the day or night. We, his family, will miss him but he will he in our hearts for ever!
Jeff gave me information on visitation but as he was giving it to me all I could think about was John and all the good time we had together. So please, if you want information call Jeff, Sara or Tom R., they have all the information for you. However, everything will take place on Wed., so there isn't much time. Jeff, Joan, Eric and the Hasslen family will be in our prays.
Sorry it took so long to get back to you, it's been a long
couple of days. The family has chosen the following organizations
for those who wish to send a memorial. http://www.pioneerpark.org/
and http://www.diabetes.org/ John was very active with Pioneer Park
- a lifetime member and former board member. We had a nice day
today - beautiful spring weather and a very impressive tour through
the Minnesota countryside with Franklins and other antiques and
John leading the way.
A sad day for sure, but beautiful as well.
tom
NOTES from other Franklin family members:
Really sad about John passing. He was a wonderful individual. I
will never forget Rob driving the 1910 at the 2002 Westrek in
Westlake Village with John and Bob Grim in the back. Rob was
chauffeuring 2 old gentlemen, one who could not hear and one who
could not see. What a comedy it was to think about them trying to
give Rob directions as to which way to go! Bob could not see where
he was going, but was really enjoying himself. John couldn't hear
and was enjoying himself as well.
You are correct. We will all miss him.
I don't know if you had heard that Bill King also died about 2
weeks ago. We went to his funeral in Glendale last Saturday. Bill
owned the 1910 that John and Bob were driving in at the 2002
Westrek. I saw Bob Grim at Bill's funeral and had a nice talk with
him.
I don't think Bill ever went to a Trek, but he did attend a number
of Westreks. He owned a 27 Touring, a 10C touring, and a 10C 4-door
sedan in addition to the 1910 we bought from him about 5 years ago.
All were really nice Franklins.
He too will be missed. I have sent a note to Pierre about Bill's
passing, as well as some information on St. James Davis, who was
the individual nearly killed by the Chimpanzees near
Bakersfield.
Lee Webb
February 5, 2006
Dear Franklin Club,
It is with so much sadness that I have to inform you of Mark's
death on Feb.2,2005. He had a life long love of the Franklin
automobile and as you may know, he donated many Franklin parts to
Tom Hubbbard and also Harrah's collection.
His father was a tri-state dealer in the twenties and thirties and
he worked at the Franklin factory when he attended Syracuse
University. It was through his father that he became so interested
in the Franklin.
I will give you his name and address again so that you can take the
proper measures to remove him from you rosters.
Sincerely,
Elizabeth Williams
Mark C. Williams
3663 Solano Avenue Apt. #137
Napa, Ca. 94558
November 9, 2004
Robert Koch Jr., 81, who lived all of his life in the 12th ward on
the south side of Allentown, died October 5, 2004 in St. Lukes
Hospital, Allentown Campus. He was the husband of the late Violet
M. (Martucci) Koch. He was the companion of Evelyn Caciolo. He was
the owner of Kochs Exxon, Lehigh Street, Allentown, for many years
until retiring. Born on June 4, 1923 in Allentown, he was a son of
the late Robert N. and Anna Catherine (Seip) Koch. He served in the
Marine Corps in the Marshall Islands with the 4th Marine Division.
He was a World War II disabled veteran and has been awarded two
Purple Heart medals for his service to his country. He was a member
of American Legion Post 576, Allentown and the Veterans of Foreign
Wars. He was a member of Mountainville Lions Club and held the Tail
Twister position for more than 50 years. He was a member of the
South Allentown Optimist Club. He was a 32nd degree mason at Jordan
Lodge 673. He served as 12th ward constable and a democratic
committeeman for many years. He was a member of Grace United Church
of Christ, Allentown. Survivors: Companion, Evelyn Caciolo of
Allentown; son, Robert N. Koch II of Orefield; daughters, Mary Ann,
wife of Charles J. Groeller of Orefield, Carol Jean Adams of
Macungie, and Wendy J. Cole of Northampton; sister, Grace Hackman
of Coopersburg; eight grandchildren, six great-grandchildren. He
was preceded in death by a grandson, James L. Lafferty III,
sisters, Dorothy Schaffer, Frances Slifer, Pearl Dragotta and
Regina Koch, and a brother, Arthur Koch. Services: will be held at
10:30 a.m. Friday, October 8, J.S. Burkholder Funeral Home, 16th
and Hamilton streets, Allentown. Calling hours will be held from
9:30-10:30 a.m. Friday, October 8 in the funeral home.
Contributions: May be made to the American Diabetes Association,
P.O. Box 2680 North Canton, Ohio 44720.
Published in the Morning Call from 10/6/2004 - 10/7/2004.
Sept. 22, 2004
John E. Kallstrom September 14, 1917 - August 26, 2004
John was born and reared in Portland, OR. As a boy, he worked with
his father in cabinet making. He then went out on his own and
became a custom builder, constructing homes in the exclusive West
Hills area of Portland.
After this he began replacing wood in old cars and this led to
total restorations of classic cars, completing one or two nearly
every year during the decades of the 80's and 90's. He is well
known for his restoration of the "Wong" Pursuit owned by Cliff and
Julie Stranburg, and an Oldsmobile Pie Wagon which was purchased by
the Oldsmobile people to put in their museum for their 100th
anniversary. John's first love was always Franklins; he owned a
1931 Sedan and a 1911 Torpedo Phaeton. He was the leader of the
"fearless foursome", a group of members who drove their Franklins
to nearly all of the Westreks. John was especially happy with the
huge turnout at the 1993 Westrek which he and Evelyn hosted in
Beaverton, OR. The last Westrek he attended was in Leavenworth, WA
in 2000. He was a sought after judge at car events because of his
knowledge of not only Franklins, but early brass cars as well. John
was a member of the H. H Franklin Club, the Historic Automobile
Club of Oregon, and the Horseless Carriage Club of Portland. He is
survived by his wife Evelyn, son Phil, daughter Marilyn and
grandsons Scott and Adam. The information came from Evelyn and
Cliff Stranburg. Thank you............Helen
July 27, 2004
"Big Lou" Rendemonti, 76 lost a 15 rounder on July 23, 2004. He
was dealt a serious blow early in the fight when in 1981 he was
diagnosed with lung cancer, and had half of his lungs removed. Went
through all the chemical therapy. In November 2002 he was dealt a
crushing blow when he was diagnosed with lung cancer again. He
decided to give it the fight of his life and because of serious
emphysema and only 1/2 of lungs, surgery was not an option. Heavy
chemical therapy and radiation were selected. Advice was that some
chose not to do anything, quality of life they said. Lou never
skipped a beat. He fought each round valiantly, taking punishing
blow after blow, getting knocked down over and over again, only to
get up each time and returning to the fight. In the summer of 2003
the pet scans revealed that the lung problem had been reduced, but
not before the insidious disease had spread throughout. Now lung,
spine, brain, and liver. No problem, back to the gym. Stay in
shape. He suffered a stroke on Easter Sunday which rendered him
completely unable to walk. In the corner the coaches said throw in
the towel, but Lou wouldn't have it, he returned to the mat,
fighting ever more valiantly. Intense radiation followed on the 5
brain tumors. He got his legs back and returned to exercise. The
steroids necessary to reduce the swelling in the brain caused by
the tumors, robbed him of his muscle strength, and his ability to
walk and to be independent became reduced to the point that his
legs were useless. Not the end for Lou. On Monday, July 5, 2004, he
all but lost his ability to walk. On Tuesday, July 21, bedridden,
he told the hospice nurses that he had to concentrate on his legs
to build them up to get back to the gym. He wouldn't allow the
fight to be called. After serious coaching from his daughter late
in the evening of July 22, 2004, he finally took a knock out punch
that ended the fight early in the morning of July 23,
2004.
Toughest man I ever met, lover of Franklins, man bigger than
life, son of immigrants, not formally educated, leader of men,
business man, friend, teacher, father, politically incorrect.
Advocate, formidable foe, Consiglieri... Dad; my "idea" sparring
partner. My brother said he was a combination of Archie Bunker,
Tony Soprano, Sanford, Vito Corleone. He lives in me. Tuesdays at
the Trek will never be the same.
All this sadly reported to you.
John Rendemonti
April 23, 2004
We have recieved word that Helen Schuman passed away on April 9, 2005. Helen and Anson Chaired a Trek in the past few years. I for one will miss her sitting under the tree with all the guys
Frank Hantak
March 25, 2004
I am sorry to say that Frank Hale Gardner passed away Tues.
March 23 while in a coma after suffering from a recent stroke.
Services will be held on Sat. April 3, 2004 at 1 pm at the Trinity
Church in Boston, Mass. Cards may be sent to his wife, Weezie, at
their home at 141 Prince St. West Newton, Mass. 02465. I have not
received information yet regarding directives for donations. Frank
went peacefully. He will be missed by many. I was fortunate to have
him as a friend.
Melissa
March 24, 2004
We are sad to report a long time club member passed away on Sunday March 21, 2004, Dick Olson of St. Louis, MO was laid to rest today March 24, 2004. Dick and his family attended many of the Midwest Meets over the years. He will be missed by many of us.
Feb. 21, 2004
The Franklin Club and Franklin Foundation lost a very dear friend.
Elaine Baldwin Moffatt, 81 years old, passed away after dinner with her family on Sunday February 15, 2004. She and Dick spent winters in Green Valley, Arizona. She was an active participant in the Franklin Foundation, and the H. H. Franklin Club, having attended 35 consecutive Treks. In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to: The Congregational Church, West Stockbridge, Mass. 01266 or The Franklin Foundation, 1405 East Kleindale Road, Tucson, AZ 85719.
Clarabell Viola (Chatterton) Nash
(Chatterton) Nash October 15, 2003 Clarabell Viola (Chatterton)
Nash, 88, of Wratten Rd., Hubbardsville, passed away peacefully at
home on Wednesday, October 15, 2003. She was born on June 20, 1915,
in Chili, NY, one of 11 children of Frank and Lillian Petersen
Chatterton. She studied teaching at SUNY Oswego, and taught for
over 30 years in New York public schools, initially near Oswego,
and later in the area around Hamilton and Cazenovia. On August 21,
1942, Clarabell was united in marriage to Charles W. Nash in
Sherburne, NY, and they lived for many years in Cazenovia and
Waterville, NY. Together, they were ardent collectors and restorers
of antique automobiles. They were members of several antique auto
clubs and participated in many auto shows in New York State and the
northeastern U.S. She was predeceased by her husband on March 8,
1999, and by nine of her brothers and sisters. Surviving are: her
sister Ruth Trainor of Avon Park, FL; her brother Wilbur Chatterton
of Sandy Creek, NY; and many nieces and nephews. Funeral services
will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday, October 18, 2003, from the Burgess
& Tedesco Funeral Home, 31 Cedar St., Morrisville, NY, with
burial in the Hillside Cemetery, Georgetown. Friends are invited to
call at the funeral home on Saturday from 1 to 2 p.m.
Published in the Syracuse Post Standard on 10/17/2003.
I must add, she was a very dear friend and the first Franklin Club member I talked with in 1968. Clarabell was the Franklin Club's Office Manager for many many years, she retired in 1991 as I was serving as President of the Club.
Frank Hantak
For us "oldtimers", Clarabell was the foundation of HHFC operations for many years as Office Manager. Before I accepted the President position, I made sure that Clarabell would continue in that position for two more years. Her reports at Board meetings were always short - "everything is OK". It was OK because she and her husband, Charlie, made sure that it was with many hours of devoted effort on behalf of HHFC. She and Charlie were honored one year at the TREK with the Club's Service Award. I was lucky enough to be one of the members to be able to recognize them for their devoted service.
Clarabell was a gracious lady in all her dealings with prospective, new, and long time members. You might paraphrase the H. H. Franklin's sign - "It can be done." with She got the job done. I, along with many others, will miss Clarabell. Her quiet contribution to building the Club we know today will not be forgotten.
Ed Wyle
September 28, 2003
L. GARDNER MERRILL
1903-2003
It is with a great sense of personal loss that I post this notice of the death of our much loved member, L. Gardner Merrill. Gardner died early in the morning, Sunday September 28, 2003. He had just celebrated his 100th birthday on September 8th with a wonderful birthday party held at our local church where over 400 people stopped by to pay their respects. On Saturday, September 6th, he was the keynote speaker at the AACA Eastern Regional Tour banquet held in Portland, Maine. He was designated the Grand Marshall of that tour, and participated in a number of the week’s activities. So, you see, (as you would expect of Gardner !) he lived life to the fullest to the very end.
Gardner was born September 8, 1903 in Cumberland, Maine. At the time of his death, he lived in Falmouth Maine , a town just two miles from where he was born. But, this is not to say that Gardner never got anywhere! A chronicle of his life would certainly be a "best seller".
He enjoyed a life long love affair with the automobile. His first recollection of this interest was riding in his grandfather's 1906 One Cylinder Cadillac. He clearly remembered the many hours he spent haunting car repair shops to learn as much as possible about this new fangled thing called an automobile. He was driving long before he was of legal age to drive, which means he had been driving automobiles for over 85 years.
He remembered with great pride that when he drove his father's American Underslung to high school, the only other car there was a model T Ford belonging to the school's sub master! The first car that Gardner owned was a late teens Series 9 Franklin touring car.
In 1969, this writer drove a series 9 Franklin touring car into Gardner's front yard and that was the beginning of a long and wonderful friendship. In 1925, Gardner and his mother and father drove their brand new 1925 Franklin from Maine to California.
Gardner owned two 1931 Series 15 Franklins—a four door sedan and a beautiful padded top coupe. Both of these cars have been seen many times at the Trek and other Franklin gatherings. You can see that his first love, Franklin, stayed with him through all these years. Gardner has been a great source of inspiration, help, and information to Franklin owners all over the country.
We will miss him.
Carl Barker
July 31, 2003
Ed Smith died this afternoon (Wednesday, 7-30) after a brief period of rapidly declining health. Ed is probably best remembered as the auctioneer at the Saturday afternoon auctions on the college green at the Trek. He attended the Treks regularly up until a few years ago, mostly in his Series 145 Convertible Coupe.
July 27, 2003
I just received word that long time club member Ken Johnson passed
away today. Kenny has been in a nursing home in Texas for many
months now, battling several illnesses.
For those lucky enough to have know his generosity, talent, wit,
and good humor he will surely be missed.
Paul Fitz.
May 26, 2003
Long time Franklin member, Judith A. Winzer, 63, of Macungie,
died May 21 in Lehigh Valley Hospital, Salisbury Township. She was
married to Donald P. Winzer for 38 years last June. She was a
school teacher for Salisbury School District for 35 years before
retiring in 1994. She was a graduate of Muhlenberg College and
earned a master's degree from Temple University. Born in Allentown,
she was a daughter of the late Richard R. Sr. and Frieda (Wolle)
Rau. She was a member of Grace Lutheran Church, Macungie. She was a
member of Lehigh Saengerbund, Cathedral of St. Catharine of Siena
choir and St. Peter's Lutheran Church German and English choirs,
both of Allentown, and a former member of Macungie Volunteer
Ambulance Corps. Survivors: Husband; son, Donald P. II of New
Tripoli; daughters, Rev. Donna Winzer Brown of Milwaukee, Wis.,
Jane Ann of Stone Mountain, Ga.; brother, Richard R. II of Old
Zionsville; three grandchildren. Services: 2 p.m. Tuesday, Grace
Lutheran Church, Macungie. Call 7-8:30 p.m. Monday, Horace W.
Schantz Funeral Home, 250 Main St., Emmaus, and 1-2 p.m. Tuesday in
the church. Contributions: Grace Lutheran Church or St. Peter's
Evangelical Lutheran Church building fund, Allentown.
Published in the Morning Call on 5/24/2003.
I regret to inform you of the death of my cousin and HHFC member Keith Russell on May 24th at Kamloops, British Columbia. He owned two series 19 Franklins, one purchased at the A. K. Miller auction in Vermont, and he attended two Cazenovia TREKs with wife Dorothy in recent years. Keith had been doing well for almost six years with a transplanted heart when he died at age 60. Dorothy Russell's address is: Box 688, Barriere, BC, V0E 1E0, Canada.
Wes Mattie
May 4, 2003
Herb Martin - Yes he had the lung surgery last october, he and Cathy have been down in Yuma for some months. About two weeks ago the cancer specialist found four tumors in his brain, two in front and two in the back of the head. He has been going through chemotheropy, and things were going fairly good until he got so weak and sick that Cathy had to call 911, that was Monday and he died Wednesday. That is about all I know.
Harold
February 7, 2003
A phone call from Joe Hafner alerted us to the passing of Rich Alford of El Centro, CA. Rich had been very active in Westreks and other old car activities. He will be remembered by fellow members for his generosity and willingness to help others with their restoration projects. Chet & Marlene
January 28, 2003
On Jan. 18, 2003 Milton W. Asher Sr. passed away after a long illness, dad was the son of Earl Asher a former Franklin dealer.
Thank you,
Milt Asher Jr.
December 29, 2002
Frank,
I regret to inform you that Millie Cazault's death notice is in
today's paper. Millie died on Dec 27, 2002. Funereal will be at
8:30 am from the Keene-Brown Funeral Home, 445 Greenville Rd.,
North Smithfield, RI. A funeral mass will be at 10 am in St.
Augustine's church in Milville, MA. Burial will be at St. Ann's
Cemetery in Cranston, RI. Visiting hours will be held Monday 2-4
and 7-9 pm.
Bob
March 9, 1999
I am sad to report the loss of long time member Charlie Nash. Charlie and Clarabell Nash have been mainstays of HHFC for many years. I can not count the trips they made between Waterville and Cazenovia to conduct Club business when Clarabell was Office Manager. The Nash's received the Franklin Service award and Charlie was a confidant while I was President dispensing his wisdom when I needed a detached opinion... and would ask. Their 1929 Deluxe Sedan has not been on the green for several years but Charlie and Clarabell would be present at some time during each Trek to quietly renew their many friendships.
Charlie worked for the Town of Cazenovia for many years and collected a number of distinctive cars of the 20s and 30s. Some of us will remember tours to the Nash's and the fun times had there.
Charlie will be missed, his knowledge of area, people, and cars will no longer be shared. I will personally miss those quiet times sharing a bench on the green, at car shows, and the visits to Waterville to check on his latest project. Our sincere sympathy to Clarabell and Charlie's brother.
Arrangements are being handled by Barker/Burgess Funeral Home in Morrisville, NY. Visitation will be Tuesday from 7:00 pm till 9:00 pm and services will be Wednesday at 11:00 am.
Ed Wyle