January 27, 2021

Obituaries 1/27/2021

Arthur “Art” Fein

Longtime Princeton resident and retired physician Arthur “Art” Fein died on January 17, 2021 at age 89.  

Art was born in Newark to Jan and Sophie Fein, a studio photographer and a colorist. Art attended Stuyvesant High School in NYC until his senior year, when he moved with his family to Miami Beach where he graduated from Miami Beach Senior High. He went on to graduate from the University of Florida, where he met his future wife, Harriet. He attended medical school at Wake Forest, where he graduated  No. 1 in his class. He did his radiology residency at Johns Hopkins.

Art joined Princeton Radiology in 1963, and remained there for 41 years.  Art chaired the department for 30 years (which grew from 4 to 40 physicians) and was president of Princeton Medical Center for two years. Physicians and staff alike commented that he was a great leader, a mentor, a friend, and an outstanding physician. Art loved being a physician and often said he never “worked” a day in his life.

Art absolutely cherished Harriet. Their lifelong love affair, mutual respect, and teamwork have served as a model for each of their children’s long and happy marriages. They nurtured and enjoyed close long-term friendships.

To all who knew him — friends, family, coworkers — he was the epitome of a “mensch” and was loved and respected, not just for his many accomplishments, but for his kindness, his ability to listen and lend a hand, and to connect with practically anyone. He had a zest for life, a wonderful sense of humor, and was a true adventurer. Art’s insatiable curiosity lead him to travel the world with Harriet, often to lesser explored destinations, always returning with spectacular photos and stories. Art was an eternal optimist whose ready smile and playful nature were incredibly endearing. He delighted when engaging with his family, especially during the summers when the family would gather in Emerald Isle, North Carolina. Art’s close extended family was very important to him, and he enjoyed all the gatherings over the years, especially Thanksgiving and Passover with the cousins.

Following retirement in 2004, Art’s thirst for knowledge led him to take a variety of interesting and challenging courses at Princeton. Art and Harriet were long time members of the Princeton Jewish Center. After spending 50 years at their home in Princeton, Art and Harriet moved to Windrows five years ago where many of their long-term friends resided.

Art leaves behind his wife of almost 69 years, Harriet; three children and their spouses: Rick and Jackie Fein (Mission Viejo, CA); Doug and Debbie Fein (Chapel Hill, NC); and Karen and Paul Kelly (Princeton). He was a loving and devoted grandfather to Jarrett, Micaela, and Naomi Fein and Skylar, Jillian, and Colton Kelly. Art also leaves behind his sister Ellen Shishko, nieces and nephews, many cousins and close friends.

In Art’s later years he often ended conversations with his children and grandchildren with one of his mantras, “Enjoy Life.”  He recently said, “I lived the life I wanted. No regrets.”

He will be missed by all. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to one of Art’s favorite charities: Doctors without Borders, Feeding America, or the Sierra Club.

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Jean Ritchie Cooper

Jean R. Cooper, 91, formerly of Pennington, died December 14, 2020 at Pennswood Village, Newtown, PA.

Born in Chicago, IL, on November 28, 1929 (Thanksgiving Day) to the late Norman L. and J. Marie Ritchie, she spent her childhood and youth in Saratoga Springs, NY. She attended public schools and, to her Mother’s disappointment, turned down a full scholarship to Vassar College in favor of attending the University of Rochester, where she received a BS/RN degree. She met her future husband, Jack Cooper, while both were serving as counselors at Silver Bay Camp on Lake George, NY. They married in the summer of 1951 and settled in Schenectady, NY, where Jack was pastor of State Street Presbyterian Church, and, subsequently, the first General Presbyter of the Albany Presbytery. All four of their children were born in Schenectady.

In 1964, the family moved to New Jersey, for Jack to establish the Center for Continuing Education at Princeton Theological Seminary. Jean obtained the necessary certifications to become a school nurse, and in 1966 she began a 17-year career as a school nurse in the Montgomery Township Schools. She retired when Jack retired from the Seminary, and they were able to travel, to spend summers at their “Playhouse” in Vermont, and to visit with their beloved grandchildren. They moved to Pennswood Village in 2000, where they enjoyed a wide range of activities and the company of their many friends.

Predeceased by her husband of 57 years, Jack Cooper, and her brother, Donald G. Ritchie, Jean is survived by her four children: Dawn Rosso, Deborah Kruesi, John Cooper, and Ruth Sawin; her son-in-law, Mark Rosso and daughter-in-law Rhonda Cooper; and five grandchildren.

A memorial service and life celebration will be held at a future date. Memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, www.alz.org.

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Teresa M. Choman

Teresa M. Choman, 85, died peacefully on January 18, 2021, at Princeton Hospital after a valiant fight against COVID-19.  Born in Toronto, Canada, Teresa was raised in Pennsylvania, and her home town was Schuykill Haven, where her parents Nat and Pauline Burachock owned a florist shop. She was preceded in death by her husband, Bohdan “Dan” Choman, in 2012; they were married for 57 years, and had two sons and four grandchildren.

Terri, as she was called by family and friends, was an elementary school teacher for 20 years in Oradell, New Jersey, before moving to Princeton, where she was a substitute teacher for several more years. She also volunteered at Princeton Hospital for many years, helping staff and patients at the front desk and in the library.

Terri was quite active at her parish, St. Paul’s of Princeton, where she was a member of the Knitting Ministry and Rosary Club. She and her husband also
volunteered with the Loaves and Fishes Ministry. Terri loved to read books, and belonged to a book club with her good friends in the Princeton Walk neighborhood, where she lived since 1990. She also liked swimming with a group of friends called the Mermaids.

She is survived by her two sons, Nicholas and Thomas Choman; four grandchildren, Sarah, Christie, Matthew, and Nicholas Choman; her sister, Maryann Biemuller; and many nieces and nephews. They and many of her other relatives and friends will greatly miss her caring, giving, and beautiful spirit.

A funeral mass was held at St. Paul Parish in Princeton on Friday, January 22, 2021 followed by  burial in Princeton Cemetery.

Please make a donation to the Alzheimer’s Association (act.alz.org) in her memory.

Extend condolences and share memories at TheKimbleFuneralHome.com.

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John Franklin Harper

June 14, 1932 – January 23, 2021

John Franklin Harper of Princeton, NJ, passed away on Saturday, January 23, 2021 at Penn Medicine – Princeton Medical Center, Plainsboro, NJ.

He was born June 14, 1932 in Newburgh, NY, and attended Kent School in Kent, CT. John married Katherine Johnson in 1953 when he was a senior at Princeton University.  After graduating in 1954, having served in ROTC, the Army sent him to Ft. Sill, OK, and then on to Ft. Lewis, WA. 

John and Katherine had four children, John F. Jr., Jay Meredith, Carolyn Elizabeth, and Katherine Clark.

John’s two post-Army jobs were at Philadelphia National Bank and Gulf Oil. In 1960, John was hired by Princeton University to help with its $53 million campaign and following the completion of that effort stayed on to work in the Princeton Development Office. In 1966 he resigned to join two colleagues to form a fund-raising and public relations firm in NYC.  In 1972, John formed his own fund-raising firm, John F. Harper and Co., which focused on some of the finest independent schools and colleges along the East Coast.

He served as ’54 Class Agent, 25th Princeton Reunion Class Chair, and Vice-President and President of the Class of 1954. John played the ukulele and was a member of the “Buster Lewis” all male joke club in the 1980s. 

John and “Margee” were married in 1987 and worked together in John’s firm until 1992.  Since then they have volunteered with local nonprofit organizations. John was a founding member of the Pacific Southern Model Railroad in Rocky Hill and built from “scratch” his own H-O gauge model railroad at his home, which he operated for many years. He was President of the Nassau Club from 1996-1998 and Treasurer thereafter until 2007. He also served on the Boards of the Princeton Area Community Foundation and Delaware Raritan Greenway.

John is survived by his wife, four children, his sister, Priscilla, and her husband, Charles, and seven grandchildren. He was predeceased by Katherine Johnson Harper and Nancy Bailey Harper. We will all miss him terribly. We are most grateful to his caretakers for the past seven years, Louis Semexan, Steve Mathelier, Benedik Louis, and John Hyppolyte.

There will be a graveside service, in the Harper family plot, in Woodlawn Cemetery, New Windsor, NY.

Donations may be made to Delaware Raritan Greenway, One Preservation Place, Princeton, NJ 08540.

Extend condolences and share remembrances at TheKimbleFuneralHome.com.

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Sybil L. Stokes

Sybil L. Stokes, 89, died of complications from COVID-19 on December 31, 2020. She lived in the Princeton area for more than half her life.

Born in Brooklyn, Sybil was the daughter of Samuel and Sadie Langbaum and the younger sister of Lawton and Stanley. A bright, bookish girl, she graduated as valedictorian of Lafayette High School in 1949. She attended Cornell University on a Regents scholarship, was elected to Phi Beta Kappa her junior year, and graduated in the Class of 1953. She then went to Yale University, to pursue graduate study in Political Science. There she met Donald E. Stokes, a fellow graduate student. The two married in 1955. As an interfaith couple, they had two ceremonies, one Jewish, the other Quaker.

Sybil and Don began their married life in Ann Arbor, where they both worked at the University of Michigan and raised their two daughters, Betsy and Sue. Sybil conducted research at the Institute of Public Administration and co-founded the Center for Continuing Education of Women. Her political activism included serving as President of the county chapter of the American Civil Liberties Union, campaigning for Democrats, and participating in various civil rights and anti-Vietnam War activities. Sybil attended the Ann Arbor Friends Meeting for nearly 20 years.

In 1974, Sybil moved to Princeton when Don became Dean of the School of Public and International Affairs at Princeton University. Many of the School’s faculty and administrative staff became her dear friends. She worked at the Educational Testing Service, eventually directing the SAT program, and as Director of Grants Management for the State of New Jersey’s Health and Human Services Department, from which she retired in 1992.

In retirement, she pursued her passions for literature, the Times crossword, and social justice, tutored for Literacy Volunteers, and served on the board of Child Care Connection. She traveled the world with Don until his death in 1997 and later with her family and her friends. She moved to Stonebridge retirement community in 2010, where she chaired the Program Committee for several years.

Sybil is survived by her daughters, Elizabeth Stokes (Mesut B. Çakır) of Princeton and Susan C. Stokes (Steve Pincus) of Chicago, five grandchildren, and three great-grandchildren.

To honor Sybil’s memory, donations may be made to Mercer Street Friends of Trenton (mercerstreetfriends.org) or the ACLU of New Jersey (aclu-nj.org). A celebration of Sybil’s life is planned for the future. 

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Shinobu Asano

Shinobu Asano, affectionately known to everyone as “Dink,” died peacefully at her home in Princeton, NJ, on January 18, 2021 at the age of 93. Dink was born to George and Hisae Yamamoto on July 17, 1927 in San Jose, California, where she spent much of her childhood. Her high school years were spent in a WWII Japanese Relocation Camp. A young woman ahead of her time, Dink pursued a college education, graduating from Temple University with a degree in business.

Soon after, she met, fell in love, and married Dr. Akira “Aki” Asano. They moved from Philadelphia, PA, to Princeton, NJ, where they raised their family. Dink was employed in a variety of capacities over her lifetime including as a house girl, a classroom aide at Miss Mason’s School, an administrator/manager with the Princeton Tennis Program, and ultimately as an administrative assistant at Princeton University. Bright, witty, and energetic, Dink enjoyed reading, gardening, socializing, and playing tennis.

Dink was preceded in death by her mother and father, her husband Aki, her sister and brother-in-law Yuri (George) Nishimura, her brother and sister-in-law Ayao “Al” (Helen) Yamamato, and her brother Kinzo Yamamoto. She is survived by her sons David of Easton, CT, and Gary (Debra) of Marquette, MI; her granddaughters Megan and Mallory; her brother Tetsuo (Hiroko) Yamamoto; and many nieces and nephews.

The family has decided to postpone memorial plans at this time. In lieu of flowers, the family is asking that donations be made in her name to either The Michigan Dental Association Foundation (www.foundation.michigandental.org) or to the Maritime Aquarium in Norwalk, CT (www.maritimeaquarium.org/donate).

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Hannah Schussel

Hannah Marcia Schussel (née Schulz) was born on the first day of spring, March 20, 1950 in Jamaica, Queens. On January 15, 2021, after telling her husband “I love you,” she succumbed to heart failure at the University of Pennsylvania hospital. She was 70 years old.

Hannah, daughter of Morris and Natalie Schulz, grew up in Great Neck, New York, and developed a passion for retail at a young age, spending many days in her grandfather’s appliance store, Plesser’s. Every Saturday of her childhood, Hannah walked to temple with her beloved father and her younger sister, Anita.

She attended Nassau Community College and Hoftstra University, earning her Masters in Special Ed, but quickly found her passion in sales, first wholesaling bras and girdles for Playtex. She then sold radio ad space for WKTU, the hottest rock station in Manhattan. And for a short, glorious year, she and her lifelong friend, Marcia, ran a personal correspondence service called Ghost Writers.

Hannah’s gift was knowing her customers. Upon moving to Princeton with her two young daughters, she and her husband opened Toys…the Store, the first of its kind on Palmer Square. They ran the shop successfully for seven years, at one point opening a second location in Pennington. Through her daughters’ acting, Hannah became involved with McCarter Theatre Center, and she later created McCarter’s first and only gift shop, serving as buyer, merchandiser, and manager of a network of volunteers. Her next venture was Hannah!, an accessories boutique that showcased her unique sense of style. Most recently, Hannah was the Assistant Manager for BCBG’s MaxAzria store in Lord & Taylor at Quaker Bridge Mall, delighting in giving her clients personal attention, and in wearing her paycheck!

Hannah dressed impeccably in black, and the jangling of her bangles always announced her. She was constantly seeking her next entrepreneurial venture, as long as it left time for: dates with her husband, visits to the beach, sushi, Italy, everything her grandchildren said or did or drew, The Young and the Restless, The Rolling Stones, watching her daughter Madeline on TV, film openings and weekly movie dates, traditions and holidays, cooking multi-course meals, fashion and design, celebrity gossip, tequila, the gym, and keeping in touch with friends and family. She was the consummate cheerleader and the fiercest protector of everyone she loved.

She had no patience for rudeness, negativity, or wire hangers. She was vivacious and colorful, and optimistic to the last minutes of her life.

She is survived by her husband and best friend of 44 years, Sandy Schussel; her daughters Madeline Blue Schussel and Stefanie (Schussel) Todd; son-in-law Nathan Todd; grandchildren Penelope and Levi; her sister Anita (Schulz) Goldman and family; her mother-in-law Rita Schussel; her in-laws Buddy Schussel, Rick Schussel, and sister-in-law Jodie (Schussel) Cohen and their families; all of her favorite cousins; her lifelong friends; and many fans.

A private funeral and burial was held on Tuesday, January 19th at Floral Park Cemetery in South Brunswick. Our sincerest thanks to Rabbi Robert Freedman for a beautiful service and for bringing so much light to her in her last few months of hospital stays. Thanks also to the Star of David Funeral Home, and to the staff at Penn Medical in Princeton and Philadelphia.

We plan to celebrate Hannah the way she deserves to be celebrated next year. In the meantime, in lieu of flowers, please make a donation in Hannah’s honor at https://memories.net/timeline/hannah-schussel-94890#.YAhkjdSwbnQ.link.

January 20, 2021

Obituaries 1/20/2021

William J. Toole

William J. Toole, 90 ½ years young, passed away after a brief illness on Friday January 8, 2021 in Melbourne, Florida.

Born in Trenton NJ, to Scottish immigrants, he was raised in Princeton, living there most of his life until moving to Pennington in 2005, with winters in Florida.

Mr. Toole was predeceased by his parents, William M. Toole and Jane (Jean) W. Gray, his wife Anne E. Toole, and his grandson Alexander Platt.

He is survived by three children, Linda A. Toole and husband David Gottschlich of Columbia, MD; Jane E. Platt and husband Greg of Cream Ridge, NJ; and Robert K. Toole and wife Patricia of Lawrenceville, NJ; eight grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren with one more on the way. He is also survived by his brother, the Reverend Dr. George G. Toole of White Hall, MD. He also leaves his “out-law” family in the Columbus, Ohio, area. His companion of the last nine years, Emma Denny, and many friends in Florida will also miss him.

Mr. Toole graduated from Princeton High School and attended Rider College. He formerly worked for the Princeton University Store but spent most of his career with IBM Corporation. He was part owner of Tartan Taxi of Princeton.

Bill was a 70-year member of Princeton Hook and Ladder Co. of the Princeton Fire Department, serving as President and Trustee. He was the longtime Secretary of the Princeton Firemen’s Relief Association and a Life Member of The NJ State Firemen’s Association. He was a Past Master of Princeton Lodge #38 F&AM, and Past District Deputy Grand Master and Past Chaplain of the Grand Lodge for New Jersey. Advisory Board member of the International Order of Rainbow Girls #51, he was also a Trustee of the Masonic Home at Burlington, NJ. He was a member of the Scottish Rite, Crescent Temple, and the Princeton Shrine Club. He additionally served his community as a member of the Borough of Princeton Affordable Housing Board and as a Sergeant and Tank Commander for 13 years in the New Jersey National Guard.

Bill enjoyed history and geography and was able to enrich those passions through his love of travel with his wife, Anne. They were members of the Wally Byam Caravan Club, traveling the North American Continent in their Airstream travel trailer. Bill was proud of his Scottish heritage and they traveled to Scotland many times visiting family and other countries as well. After 59 years of marriage, Anne passed away.

Bill met Emma in Florida, and they continued traveling this time mainly by cruise ship, including one eventful trip to Cuba.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Bill’s memory may be made to the Shriners Children’s Hospital.

Interment will be at Trinity-All Saints’ Cemetery, Princeton.

A celebration of Bill Toole’s life will be held at a later date this year.

Arrangements are under the direction of Mather-Hodge Funeral Home, Princeton.

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Jeffrey Lionel Gossman

Jeffrey Lionel Gossman, the M. Taylor Pyne Professor of Romance Languages and Literatures, Emeritus, at Princeton University, died on Monday, January 11, 2021, at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia.

Lionel was a meticulous scholar who happily crossed intellectual boundaries to follow untrodden paths and discover the orphans neglected by scholarly research to create connections between fields and disciplines. He understood that events great and small do not happen in isolation and the high and the low do not inhabit separate realms. His scholarship was driven by a passion to bring attention to those who have been neglected, misunderstood, or out of fashion. He was not a linear thinker who stuck to his chosen path. He was a scholar, a lover of arts, and a storyteller. He wrote on topics ranging from historiography to the stained-glass windows in the working-class sections of Glasgow. He published in the most prestigious academic presses, but loved to publish on Openbookpublishers.com, VictorianWeb.org, and other online platforms, which made his work accessible to everyone around the world.

He was both an intellectual trailblazer and a skeptic of the latest intellectual fashions. He was a generous and contributing citizen to the institutions which he served – Johns Hopkins from 1968 to 1976 and Princeton University from 1976 until his retirement in l999 as well as the American Philosophical Society which he loved, and on whose many committees he served for years. He was a reader for Recording for the Blind and Dyslexic (now Learning Ally), and he was usually assigned the most unglamorous French grammar texts.

Lionel was born on May 31, 1929, on the kitchen table of a rented flat in Hyndland in the West End of Glasgow. His father was born in London, his mother in Glasgow, both children of immigrant working-class parents.

Lionel received all his basic education in the Scottish public school system. In 1943, at the age of 14, he earned what was to be his first of many academic honors, “The James Wilson Medal for Excellence in French.” In 1946 he entered the University of Glasgow where he majored in French and German. He graduated with first-class honors in 1951 — the year of the University’s 500th birthday. Between 1952 and 1954 he served first in the Royal Navy and then in the Army, where he was trained as a simultaneous translator between Russian and English and earned a First-Class interpreter’s certificate.  In 1954 he entered St. Antony’s College, Oxford, where he received his D.Phil degree in 18th-century French literature in 1958.

In September 1958 Lionel came to the United States. As he writes in his (unpublished) autobiography “In the Footsteps of Giants: My Itinerary from Glasgow to Princeton,” “… though I was suspicious of American power and appalled by the McCarthy witch hunts, I sensed the deep democratic instinct of the Americans and it appealed to me as a Scot. I felt instinctively that my Glasgow accent and my provincial lower-middle class Jewish background would not be held against me. I would be taken for who I was and allowed to become whatever I could make of myself.”

A full list of Lionel’s publications and academic honors are included in the Princeton University obituary: https://www.princeton.edu/news/2021/01/15/lionel-gossman.

Following is a small selection: Honors: The Howard T. Behrman Award, Princeton’s highest award for distinguished achievements in the humanities (1990); Officier des Palms Académiques (1991); elected to the American Philosophical Society (1996); and honorary degree of Doctor of Humanities, Princeton University (2005). Publications: “Men and Masks: A Study of Molière” (Johns Hopkins University 1963); “Medievalism and the Ideologies of the Enlightenment” (JHU, 1968); “Between History and Literature” (Harvard University Press, 1990); “Basel in the Age of Burkhardt,” awarded the George L. Mosse Prize for modern cultural history by American Philosophical Association (Chicago University Press 2000); “Brown Shirt Princess: A Study of the Nazi Conscience” (Openbook Publishers, 2009); “Thomas Annan of Glasgow: Pioneer of the Documentary Photograph” (Openbook Publishers, 2015); and “Scottish Publishers and English Literature: Some Smaller Publishers” (Victorian Web, December 2020).

Lionel is survived by his wife Eva; his daughter Janice, son-in law Michael Coppola and his son Nicholas; his sister-in-law Gabriella Weiss, and brother-in-law Alexander Ben Ami; his nephew Dr. Daniel Weiss (Debbie) and family; niece Ruth Bergman (Rabbi Aaron) and family; nephew Oded Ben Ami (Judy) and family; Rivka (Nivi) and family; Yair Ben Ami (Maya) and family; as well as many cousins in Glasgow, London, and Zurich.

Donations can be made to a charity of choice or to the American Friends of Glasgow University.

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Mandy Rabinovich

Mandy Rabinovich passed away peacefully in the early morning of January 16, 2021.

A longtime Princeton local who had lived all over the world, Menachem Mendel Rabinovich was born on January 30, 1927, in Bucharest, Romania. It was there, as a teenager, that he met Edith Hershkovich, his wife of 53 years whom he married in 1949, the same year the couple moved to Israel and started their family. Mandy always described Edith, known to all as Dita, as his soulmate. She passed away in 2002.

Mandy’s love of life, adventure, and travel took him all over the world. He raised his family on three continents — in Israel, Brazil, and Germany — exposing his children and grandchildren to multiple cultures. It wasn’t uncommon to hear four languages spoken over a single family dinner.

In their later years, Mandy and Dita settled in Princeton, where he would spend many hours drinking cappuccinos, in particular at Small World Coffee, and befriending baristas all over town. He was known for his warmth and his ability to make friends in a matter of minutes, extracting life stories and dispensing advice as only he could. “Health and luck,” he would say at the end of every conversation. “These are the most important things.”

Mandy is survived by his three children and one daughter-in-law: Shifra Rubin, Pnina Rabinovich, Alan Rabinovich, and Lina Rabinovich. He was also the beloved Saba of eight grandchildren – Itay, Noa, Deborah, Eli, Rafael, Shai, Dita, and Lucas – and four great-grandchildren – Matan, Ori, Mia, and Nuri.

His life affirming optimism, unusual sense of humor and electric smile will forever be remembered by those who knew him and loved him.

Funeral services and burial were Monday at Princeton Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to UNICEF USA (unicefusa.org).

To send condolences to the family visit OrlandsMemorialChapel.com.

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William H. Osborne III

William H. Osborne III, 91, formerly of Princeton, N.J., passed away on November 30, 2020, of COVID-19. He was a resident of Pacifica Senior Living in Santa Fe, NM.

Bill was born and raised in Newark and Maplewood, NJ. He attended Princeton University and served on the alumni committee for class of 1950. During the Korean War, he served as lieutenant in the U.S. Army. He worked many years as a Trust Officer at National Newark & Essex Bank, Midlantic Bank, and several other NJ banks. He served on the board of several charities, including the Job Haines Home for Unwed Mothers.

Bill was a voracious reader, avid cyclist, and photographer. After retiring, he loved traveling with his wife Lib, vacationing in Maine, and visiting family across the U.S. Bill was known and loved for his integrity and generosity, his gentlemanly charm, and dry humor.

He is survived by his sister, Joan O. Lautenberger; his three children, Lynn D. Osborne, Wendy O. Pierce, and William H. Osborne IV; and six grandchildren.

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Marjorie C. Horowitz

Marjorie C. Horowitz, 96, longtime Princeton resident, most recently residing at the Stonebridge at Montgomery retirement community in Skillman, New Jersey, passed away on January 4, 2021.

Marjorie, daughter of  Dora and Barnett Chasen, and younger sister of Harriet, was born on June 19, 1924 in Newark, New Jersey, and lived in nearby New Brunswick for most of her youth. After graduating from high school, she attended optical school and worked as an optician in New York City before returning to New Jersey to marry her childhood best friend’s handsome older brother, Milton Horowitz. The Chasen and Horowitz families were longtime friends and the engagement was welcomed and celebrated.

Marjorie and Milton married in 1947. She moved to the Princeton area where Milton and his cousin had purchased Weber’s Training School and established a veterinary practice on Highway US 1.  In those days, room and board were part of the kennelmen’s salary so she cooked three meals a day for her husband and six other hungry men.  A tough job for a new bride.

Speaking of cooking, Margie made the best pies ever. The fruit filling was terrific, but her crust received top billing.  If fruit pies were not to your liking, not to worry, her mandelbrot (Jewish biscotti) was a big hit with her friends and family. Nobody had just one helping of her brisket as well. Marjorie raised her two children, Carol and David, on the property. She was active in the community and was a founding member of the Princeton Jewish Center. She and Milton traveled the world together, and when in mid-life she, also, took up his hobby of fishing, “they fished all over the world” too. In later years, Marjorie became interested in stained glass. She made many beautiful lamps, mirrors, boxes, and window pieces. She loved the Yiddish language; she spoke, wrote, and read it fluently.  She also belonged to a Yiddish reading and conversation group in Princeton.

She is lovingly remembered by her children, their spouses, her grandchildren, nieces, nephews, many friends, and her dearest friend of 90+ years and sister-in-law, Shirley Shapiro (née Horowitz). Due to current public health Covid precautions, there will not be a funeral service or gathering at this time. When conditions permit, a celebration of her life will be held.

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Lawrence Walter Howley

Lawrence Walter Howley, 84, passed away peacefully and returned to the Lord on January 12, 2021 at Princeton Care Center from complications with COVID related illness. 

Mr. Howley was born on October 3, 1936 in New Brunswick, New Jersey, to Anna (Benedyk) and James S. Howley. As a young man of 17 he enlisted in the Air Force but received a medical discharge. Mr. Howley relocated to Princeton with his family in the late 1950s. Mr. Howley was self-educated as a freelance writer. He especially enjoyed writing for children and contributed to children’s magazines.  He was most proud of a piece titled “The Long Ride” taken from his childhood memories of sledding. 

While residing in Princeton, “Larry and Susan” frequently visited the Princeton Public Library, enjoyed “going to the shore” and walks around town. Larry was a loving caretaker of his wife of 60 years, Susan, who suffered from medical issues in recent years. He was the best “big brother” and always had a quick wit. He will be dearly missed, as he was dearly loved.

He was preceded in death by his parents, and two brothers, James Neill Howley and John Timothy Howley. He is survived by his wife, Susanna Robertson Howley, and four sisters: Blanche M. Ropars, Naperville, IL; Linda Howley-Skuby, Bloomington, IL; Colleen Howley Gosselin, Charleston, IL; and Maureen (Randy) Pletcher, Springfield, IL. Susanna and Lawrence had no children but doted on their many nieces and nephews. 

The family would like to extend special thanks to the dear neighbors on Bank Street, especially Mrs. Hannah Rosenberg and Chip and Jean Crider for their support of Larry and Susan during their time of need. Also, our brave nephew, Robert Howley, who was able to supervise the closing of their apartment of 50 years. In time of need, the staff of Princeton Care Center, and Dr. Barile, MD, were kind and generous with their support.

Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated on January 15, 2021 at St. Paul’s Church. Burial followed in St. Paul’s Church Cemetery.

Arrangements are under the direction of Mather-Hodge Funeral Home, Princeton.

Donations may be made to charity of your choice.

January 13, 2021

Obituaries 1/13/2021

John Law Jacobus

After a brief but hard-fought battle with cancer, John Law Jacobus, of Washington, DC, passed away on January 2, 2021. He was 57 years old. 

John was born in Washington, DC, and when he was 6, a family move took him to Princeton, NJ, in August of 1970, where he spent the remainder of his youth, graduating from Princeton Day School in 1982. At graduation, he was awarded the English and Latin prizes, a Headmaster’s award, as well as being the first recipient of the John Douglas Sacks-Wilner ’80 Award. He loved studying English and history, and participated in several dramatic presentations, including one of the first full Shakespearean plays mounted by the school, Twelfth Night.   

John attended Harvard University, receiving a bachelor of arts (A.B.) in History, graduating magna cum laude and Phi Beta Kappa. At Harvard, he was a recipient of the Detur Prize, one of the oldest academic prizes at Harvard College, awarded to only the top 49 freshmen in the class. He was also awarded a John Harvard Scholarship, in recognition of academic achievement of the highest distinction, as well as the Whitehill Prize, given by Lowell House to the junior student who “as a scholar and citizen best represents the tradition of the humane letters and arts.” John was a member of the Phillips Brook House Association, dedicated to public service in the greater community. He also served as head usher in the Memorial Church, then under the stewardship of the Reverend Peter J. Gomes.  As head usher, John led the reading in the chapel service at commencement. 

After college, John continued on to the Harvard Law School, receiving his Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree in 1989. Upon graduating, he accepted a position as law clerk to a federal judge, the Hon. Maryanne T. Barry, at the United States District Court for the District of New Jersey.  Following his clerkship, John served as a trial attorney at the U.S. Department of Justice in Washington, DC, beginning his career as a member of the Attorney General’s Honors Program.  While at the Justice Department, John received two Special Achievement Awards from the Attorney General, one for Sustained Superior Performance of Duty (1993) and the other for Meritorious Acts Performed on Behalf of the Department (1994). 

Following his service at the U.S. Department of Justice, John briefly served as the general counsel in a family-owned business, the Jacobus Pharmaceutical Company, Inc., a position he relished. Following that service, John joined Steptoe & Johnson, LLP, in Washington, DC, where he remained for the rest of his career. Elected partner at Steptoe in 2001, John focused on commercial litigation and arbitrations, often with a focus on insurance and reinsurance/risk trading. He was a distinguished member of the bar, both domestically and on an international basis, and served as chair of the Insurance and Reinsurance Practice Section of Lex Mundi, the world’s largest assembly of private law firms. While at Steptoe, John also devoted a significant amount of time to pro bono work, often with a focus on helping immigrants reach the safety of the United States following persecution or torture abroad. His representation of the underprivileged also included serving as lead counsel in proceedings before the United States Court of Appeals of the District of Columbia Circuit in litigation on behalf of developmentally delayed children, in a case challenging their stewardship by the government of the District of Columbia.     

John was a lifelong reader and collector of books, which he cherished. History was a particular interest; while he enjoyed building his knowledge on all eras and cultures, World War II and its aftermath were a special focus for him. Together with his partner (and later husband) of 23 years, John enjoyed traveling and seeing both the cultural sites of the world and its geographical wonders from Argentina to Zimbabwe and dozens of countries in between. 

John enjoyed the culture of urban spaces, but relished getting deep into rustic places as well.   He was particularly fond of walking in the woods and along the rocky cliffs at Isle au Haut, Maine, where his family has spent summers for many generations. Isle au Haut held a special place in his heart, often inspiring deeply contemplative moments, especially at night, when the ink-black sky was spread with stars and the murmurs of the ocean sounded nearby.   

Character was destiny for John, and he believed that kindness was the greatest wisdom. All who knew him would attest that he served as an exemplar of those values his entire life. He was utterly devoted to his husband, David Uhler, and was beloved by his family and many friends.  John was predeceased by his brother, William Penman Jacobus, to whom he lovingly gave many hours of thoughtful care during a prolonged period of illness in William’s life. In addition to his husband, John is also survived by his parents, David and Claire Jacobus of Princeton, NJ; his sister Marget Jacobus of Westfield, MA; his sister and brother-in-law Hughie Jacobus and Andrew Hildick-Smith of Winchester, MA; his sister Laura Jacobus of Princeton, NJ; three nephews, Gordon, Seth, and Neil Hildick-Smith; a niece, Ellen Jacobus; and a new grand-niece, Sophie, daughter of Gordon and his wife Alice Wisener.

A memorial service for John will be planned for a later date. Those who would like to honor John’s memory in the meantime may wish to make a donation in his honor to the Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center at Georgetown University (lombardi.georgetown.edu/giving); the Isle Au Haut Community Development Corporation (isleauhaut.org); or the Shakespeare Theatre Company (shakespearetheatre.org/support/ways-to-give).

———

Dr. Douglas H. Wiedemann

Dr. Douglas H. Wiedemann, 67, a longtime resident of Princeton, died on November 12, 2020 at the Penn Medicine Princeton Medical Center in Plainsboro.

Dr. Wiedemann was born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, to the late Herbert P. and Henrietta P. Wiedemann. Early in his life, it became clear that he possessed an exceptional gift for mathematics, and this became his lifelong passion. Dr. Wiedemann received a BS degree in electrical engineering from Princeton University in 1975, an MS in computer engineering from Carnegie Mellon University in 1977, and a Ph.D. in mathematics from the University of Waterloo, Ontario, Canada, in 1986.

As an undergraduate, Dr. Wiedemann started to work during the summer at the Institute for Defense Analysis in Princeton. This was the beginning of his long career as a research staff member at the Institute’s Center for Communication Research, where he remained active up until the time of his death. His career at the Center for Communication Research was punctuated by short stints at Thinking Machines Corporation and Sun Microsystems. Dr. Wiedemann was well-known for his work on sparse systems of linear equations over finite fields, which is used in addressing mathematical problems such as factoring integers in an efficient way.

Dr. Wiedemann was interested in a great range of matters, from the tangible and physical to the theoretical and abstract. His imaginative and original observations were unique. One of his supervisors wrote the following when Dr. Wiedemann was only 29 years of age: “The beautiful new mathematics that you have discovered and continue to extend in so many directions is one of the most exciting developments in modern cryptanalysis. I understand that you were recently able to use your new techniques to solve an important problem that had defied solution for several years.”

Dr. Wiedemann will be greatly missed by his colleagues and family. He remained single throughout his life. He is survived by his brother, Herbert P. Wiedemann MD, of Shaker Heights, Ohio and his wife, Patricia Barz, and their children, Sarah Wiedemann of Denver, Colorado and Andrew Wiedemann of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, as well as aunts, nieces, and nephews.

Cremation arrangements were provided by the Kimble Funeral Home of Princeton. Dr. Wiedemann’s ashes were interred next to those of his parents at the Providence Presbyterian Church in Hilton Head, South Carolina. 

A private service for the family will be held there when the COVID pandemic resolves.

Memorial gifts can be made to the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation through the Give Now tab on the home page of their website: https://www.crohnscolitisfoundation.org.

———

Charles Minter “Pat” Patrick, Jr.

Charles Minter “Pat” Patrick, Jr. passed away after a brave struggle with Covid-19 on December 24, 2020. He was born in Dallas on November 27, 1933 to Brooksie Smith Patrick and Charles Minter “Pat” Patrick, Sr.

He graduated from Highland Park High School and Washington & Lee University where he earned a Bachelor of Arts in History and Political Science, was a member of Beta Theta Pi fraternity, and captain of the swim team. Following graduation, Pat enlisted in the United States Coast Guard, graduated from Officer Candidate School, and was stationed on Governors Island in New York City. Pat served aboard the USCGC Westwind, earning the Coast Guard Arctic Service Medal. During that time in New York City, Pat began dating Ann Guthrie. When asked how he knew she was “the one,” he replied, “she told me.” In 1958, Ann and Pat married in Dallas, and he called her “my beautiful bride” throughout their 62 years of marriage.

Following his service in the Coast Guard, Pat began his lifelong career as an insurance broker with the family company C.M. Patrick Agency. After numerous mergers, Pat joined Alexander & Alexander where he held various positions and earned his Chartered Property & Casualty Underwriter (CPCU) designation. In 1987, Pat relocated to New York City as CEO of A&A’s Captive Management Services, settling in Princeton, New Jersey. In 1992, Pat became President of A&A Japan, whereupon Pat and Ann moved to Tokyo.

After retiring in 1994, Pat and Ann moved to Rociada in northeastern New Mexico, in the mountain community of Pendaries where he served as Salvation Army board member, Rotary Club of Las Vegas President, and board member of Pendaries Village Community Association. Pat and Ann enjoyed traveling the world, especially their trips to Great Britain, China, the Soviet Union, Italy, and France. In 2015, Pat and Ann returned to Dallas to The Tradition to be near family and friends. Pat was involved with the Tradition Resident Council Activities group and enjoyed giving historical presentations on the Titanic. Later at Emerson, Pat enjoyed spending time visiting with residents in the dog park and working in the Community Store.

Pat was a member of Christ the King Catholic Church and was involved in the parents’ associations of their children’s schools including Christ the King, Jesuit, Ursuline, and Cistercian. Pat was a trustee of the Catholic Foundation and past member of Brook Hollow Golf Club, Idelwild, and Terps.

To his wife, children, family, and friends, Pat was kind, funny, patient, loyal, supportive, and generous. He could tell a great story but liked listening to one even more. He was an avid reader; loved history, movies, politics, tennis, and naps; and was “OK” at golf. Pat was a true gentleman who strived to do the right thing.

He is survived by his wife Ann; brothers Allyn and wife Julie; Brooks and wife Sharon. Children Charles “Pat” Patrick, III and wife Sheila, their children Charles, Jessica, and Katherine; Aline Patrick; David Patrick and wife Monica, their children Delaney, Sarah, and Lucy; Michael and partner Will Cromley.

A private service was held at Calvary Hill Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in his memory to The Catholic Foundation, Pastoral Reflections Institute, Cistercian General Scholarship Fund, The Bridge Homeless Recovery Center, or the charity of your choice.

———

Dr. Evette Katlin

Dr. Evette Katlin passed away at her home in Lawrenceville, New Jersey, on Tuesday evening, January 5, 2021.

Born in the Bronx on June 13, 1957, Evette grew up in New Rochelle, New York, and later Randallstown, Maryland. She previously resided in Silver Spring, Maryland; Jerusalem; Los Angeles; and New York City before moving to Lawrenceville.

After graduating from Randallstown High School, she earned a degree in nursing from the University of Maryland, Baltimore. She later earned a master’s degree in Public Health and Nursing from Catholic University, a second masters in Marriage/Family & Child Counseling and Industrial Psychology from Antioch University in Los Angeles, and a third masters at Hunter University NYC in Social Work Administration. She earned a PhD in Health Studies at Temple University. More recently, Evette entered into studies in the Cantorial and Rabbinical Program at the Academy of Jewish Religion.

Evette began her professional life as a visiting nurse and practicing at hospitals in Los Angeles and later Washington, DC. She later became a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and worked in that capacity as a psychotherapist for over 25 years at several local agencies including the Princeton Psychiatric Hospital, Family & Children’s Services in Princeton, and most recently at the Family Guidance Center in Hamilton. She was also a licensed health and wellness Life Coach.

Evette had a strong Jewish identity teaching as a religious school teacher at Adath Israel congregation, The Jewish Center of Princeton, and at Kehillat Shalom in Belle Mead, NJ. She led High Holiday Services for many years in Metuchen, NJ; Freehold, NJ; Marlboro, NJ; Bensalem and York, PA; Frederick, MD; and Westport, CT. In recent years she became the student Rabbi at Congregation Ohev Sholom in York, PA. She was also an accomplished composer of liturgical music. As a composer and lyricist, her works are published in Cantor’s Assembly, Women’s Cantor’s Network, and Shalshelet Foundation.

An active member of the Jewish community, Evette was a member of the Women’s Cantor’s Network and Association of Rabbis, Cantors at the Academy of Jewish Religion, New Jersey Cantor’s Concert Ensemble, and the Delaware Valley Cantors. She was also active with JFCS of Greater Mercer County.

Her family life began in Silver Spring, MD where she met her husband, Hazzan Arthur Katlin, in synagogue choir. In the years following, culminating with 29 years in the Adath Israel community where Arthur has been the congregation’s cantor, they have shared a love of Judaism and music together. Evette and Art would often present concerts as a duo throughout their marriage. She was an active member of the Adath community, participating in Women’s League, Bikur Cholim and led a monthly Women’s Rosh Chodesh group. She was honored as the Women’s League Torah Fund Honoree in 2016.

Evette had a passion for working with people. An extremely hard worker, her lifelong pursuit of knowledge led her to a commitment to acts of service. She was passionate about Judaism and was deeply committed to Social Justice and Tikun Olam. She was a marvelous and versatile singer in many genres from Broadway, Jazz, and Pop to Gospel, and Jewish Liturgical music.

Evette is remembered for her empathy and positive outlook, as someone who wore her heart on her sleeve, she could find humor in any situation and her family and friends will cherish her contagious laugh. She was social, outgoing, and fun loving. A natural listener, she constantly encouraged self-reflection as a means for growth. Through these qualities and selflessness she truly embodied the meaning of an “Eishet Chayil,” a woman of valor.

Above all things, Evette loved to spend time with her close family, cooking, watching TV and movies, traveling and playing family games — especially Boggle and Rummikub.

Evette is predeceased by her parents Diana and Robert Kaufman.

She is survived by her loving husband, Arthur Katlin; her children, Shara Katlin and Aaron Katlin; and her cousin, Adam Sisenwein.

Private funeral services and burial were held at the Adath Israel Congregational Plot in Fountain Lawn Memorial Park in Ewing, NJ.

To send condolences to the family, visit OrlandsMemorialChapel.com.

———

Norman Denard

Norman Denard, a longtime resident of Princeton, died at the age of 99 on January 9, 2021 at RWJ Somerset.

Norman was born in Trenton and graduated from Rutgers University with a degree in Mechanical Engineering. He was married to his late wife, Roz, for 73 years. Norm and she moved to Princeton in the early 1950s and created a wonderful home and life for themselves and their three children.

Norm was a polymath of sorts. He had deep knowledge, interest, and affinities in a wide range of areas and subject matter. These included world cultures, literature, poetry, history, etymology, geography, physics, electricity, natural sciences, climatology, astronomy, writing, religion, foreign language, the arts, philosophy, technology, and classical and folk music. He was always more than happy to delve into conversation on any of these subjects, with family, friends, and acquaintances alike.

Norman was a partner for many years at Mohawk Electric in lower Manhattan. He had dreamed of becoming a teacher and sharing his love of learning, so after retirement he went back to college and received a Masters in Education including his Teacher’s Certification. Following a few years of subbing and giving it his best shot but not feeling fulfilled, he shifted gears.

Norm had an insatiable thirst for knowledge and was a true lover of learning. His involvement with Community Without Walls also served as an opportunity to stay engaged. Whether by extensive reading, participating in Elderhostel and Smithsonian trips, taking courses online, or auditing classes at Princeton, expanding his mind was always important to him.

Over the years, in addition to his intellectual bent, he was also very happy when participating in a wide range of pastimes.  They included canoeing (white and flat water), skiing (downhill and cross country), sailing, motorcycling, bird watching, mucking for marine life at the shore, hiking, woodworking, clay sculpting, snorkeling, photography, fencing, ice skating, and camping.

Traveling and adventuring with Roslyn and with close friends was an important aspect of his life, as well. He had the pleasure to visit over 50 countries around the world which included highlights such as Israel, exploring the bridges of Wales, Bhutan, the steppes of Eastern Mongolia, the Silk Road, Greenland, Kenya, Pakistan, Turkey, Peru, and Tibet. Norm was a staunch supporter of the Free Tibet movement. He never tired of seeing the historical, cultural, and natural wonders of the world. His fascination in the children and people of these countries was caught innumerable times in pictures or tapes as his subjects showed equal captivation in his camera and recorder.

Jewish heritage and values were two things Norm felt strongly about. As a child, he even gave up his own bed for Golda Meir when she came to Trenton to inspire support for the State of Israel. In the years that followed, he continued to share that commitment with family, friends, and members of the Jewish community. Often he would share a Succoth celebration at home that was both traditional and memorable for all. He was also a committed supporter of the Center for Jewish Life at Princeton University and served as President of The Jewish Center while being involved in its various committees and groups.

During WWII, as a member of the U.S. Army Air Corps, he served as a Supply Officer, an Airplane Armament Officer, as well as a Gunnery Instructor stateside. While stationed in the Philippines, Norm was involved in Air and Sea Rescue. He also worked for a time in the U.S. Weather Bureau out of Rochester, NY.

Words that describe Norm Denard best would include: gentle, honest, a global humanitarian, compassionate, inquisitive, moral, interesting, intelligent, grateful, and devoted to the love of his life, Roz.

Norman is survived by his son Jeff and his daughter Lisa Denard (Peter Koval), including grandchildren, Sean, Jessica, Tracy, Amanda, and Alexis, and two great-grandchildren, Evelyn and Walker. He is predeceased by his wife Roslyn, his daughter, Karen Denard Goldman, parents Samson and Yetta Donskoy, and his sister Bas Zion Kelsey.

A memorial service will be planned for a later date.

———

Dawn Wilcox

Dawn Wilcox, nee Margaret Dawn Elsbury Winter, died peacefully in her sleep on December 26, 2020 in the Rancho Palos Verdes home of her daughter Susan. 

Dawn was born in Carlisle, England, on March 18, 1929 to Charles Elsbury Winter and Margaret Pearl Winter, nee Wilson. She attended the Carlisle and County High School for Girls and then the Hunmanby Hall School, operating in Armathwaite Hall, Bassenthwaite, during the Second World War.  In 1948/49, Dawn completed a translator’s degree at the University of Geneva, where she met Ralph Wilcox, a US veteran of WWII, studying French on the GI bill. Dawn was only 19 and knew that her parents would never let her marry an American, so she returned to England and Ralph to California, and they corresponded for two years until Dawn turned 21. Dawn then spent one year in California before the couple was married on September 6, 1951 in St Michael’s Church in Carlisle.

Ralph accepted a job in adult education with the United States Forces, and for the first 15 years of their marriage, they lived in various parts of France, including Verdun, La Rochelle, Tours, and Fontainebleau, where all three of their children were born, Carol in 1953, Ian in 1955, and Susan in 1958. During the 1960s, Dawn became involved in Girl Scouts, as a much beloved leader of Junior troops and then in the 1970s as a trainer for new leaders. Following her father’s death, Dawn, who could not bear the thought of never seeing him again, sought and found renewed Christian faith, which was central to her life for the subsequent 40 years. In 1966, the family moved to Heidelberg, Germany, and in 1974, to Belgium.  In 1985, Ralph retired and returned to Southern California, to Hidden Meadows near Escondido, where they built their dream house with a pool, which Dawn had spent years designing.

The couple spent nearly 20 idyllic years in Hidden Meadows, describing every day as “another day in paradise.” During this time, Dawn enjoyed gardening and managed to cultivate a spectacular British rose garden. She was actively involved in the local garden club, a book club, yoga classes, and regularly helped with grandchildren in Hacienda Heights, also hosting and visiting those in Princeton, NJ. After Ralph’s death in 2005, Dawn stayed in her home another five years, until her macular degeneration worsened, rendering independent life impossible. The last decade of her life was divided between her two daughters’ homes, in Princeton, NJ, and Rancho Palos Verdes, California.

Dawn loved discovering the world and traveled all over Europe, from Greece to Scandinavia during their 35 years in Europe. A highlight just before retirement was a trip to the Holy Land. In later years, she particularly enjoyed cruises, many of them with Susan, to Bermuda, Alaska, China, New Zealand, and the Baltic Sea. After retirement, Dawn returned to England twice, first in 1998 and in 2007, and she was impressed by the positive changes in her hometown but never did miss the rain! Her last cruise was to the Sea of Cortez, in honor of her 80th birthday in 2009.

Dawn’s greatest joy in life was her family, and she delighted in her three children and five grandchildren, particularly enjoying playing card games and organizing special outings to museums, as well as fun trips for them, such as a trip to see the whales in Baja, California, or to Catalina Island and a cruise around Hawaii in honor of their 50th anniversary. She was tickled pink to have participated in kindling grandson Sean’s passion for science at an early age.  She will be greatly missed by her three children Carol Wilcox Prevost (Jean Herve) of Princeton, NJ, Ian Wilcox (MaryAnn) of Hacienda Heights, California, and Susan Wilcox of Rancho Palos Verdes, California; her five grandchildren Christopher Prevost (Brenda), Ian Prevost (Nam) and Olivia Prevost Karr (Ryan), Sean Wilcox (Lauren) and Lisa Wilcox; and six great-grandchildren Tyler, Landon, Amelia, Lily and Ralph Prevost, and Audrey Karr.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests contributions to Heifer, Int., one of Dawn’s favorite charities.

January 6, 2021

Obituaries 1/6/2021

Evangelisto “Angelo” DiMeglio

Evangelisto “Angelo” DiMeglio, 82, of Princeton passed away suddenly on Monday, December 28, 2020. 

Predeceased by his parents Francesco and Lucia (Cuomo) DiMeglio, he is survived by his wife Annunziata “Nancy” (Sasso) DiMeglio; son Frank DiMeglio (Laura); daughters Lisa DiMeglio and Julie Willenbacher; grandchildren Alex DiMeglio, Melissa Dean (Jonathan), Jillian DiMeglio, Jordan DiMeglio, Christian Evangelisto Willenbacher, Grayson Willenbacher; great-grandson, Sebastian Michael Dean; brothers and sisters in the U.S. and Ischia, Italy; and many extended family.

A memorial service will be held at a later date due to COVID-19 restrictions.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project.

Arrangements are under the direction of Mather-Hodge Funeral Home, Princeton.

———

Lesley Johnston

Lesley Johnston, 72, of Skillman, New Jersey, passed away at Princeton Penn Medical Center on December 22, 2020.

Lesley was born in Trenton, New Jersey, and spent her childhood in Yardley, Pennsylvania. She went on to graduate from Princeton Day School in Princeton, New Jersey. She then followed in her mother’s footsteps and attended Wheaton College in Norton, Massachusetts, graduating in 1970.

After college, Lesley became a social worker at Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston and The Carrier Clinic in Belle Mead, New Jersey, before devoting herself full-time to raising two wonderful boys, Tim and Chris, in both Pennington and Skillman, New Jersey.  

If family and friends could choose one word to describe Lesley, it would be “stylish,” — in fashion, summers on Nantucket, trips to Italy, after learning the language, and especially New York City. She embraced the City and never tired of its rush and excitement, especially the Upper West Side.

Lesley is survived by her husband Todd of 50 years; loving sons Tim of Wellesley, Massachusetts, and Chris of Mesa, Arizona; Tim’s wife Chrissie; and three grandchildren, Graham, Blakeny, and Spencer.

A dedicated wife, mother, and grandmother, she will be missed terribly by her family and many friends.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may kindly be made to the Smile Train charity (www.smiletrain.org).

Arrangements are under the direction of Mather-Hodge Funeral Home, Princeton.

———

Henry Welling Lane

Henry Welling Lane died at his home in Bay Head, N.J., on December 12. He was 65 and had battled pancreatic cancer for 27 months.

The fifth of seven children of Arthur Stephen and Sally Kuser Lane, he grew up in Harbourton, N.J. He was a fiercely competitive natural athlete who played hockey, football, and lacrosse at Princeton Day School and Middlesex School. Like his father, he attended Princeton University, where he played on freshman and varsity teams in all three sports. Following his 1978 graduation, he was accepted into Proctor & Gamble’s sales training program, working for the food division in New England. He went on to management sales positions in Tom’s of Maine, Environmental Products Corp., and Nestlé Waters North America.

He married Cecily Maureen Glavin in 1991. Five years later, he became a partner in Dioptics Medical Products, a medical eyewear business, and they and their first son moved to San Luis Obispo, Calif. While serving as CEO/President, his interest in innovation led to his being granted 114 patents. He named one popular line of eyewear cases “Kerney Cases,” the name of his second son and his maternal grandmother’s maiden name.

During the years in San Luis Obispo, he was active in local non-profits, serving on the boards of the San Luis Obispo County YMCA and the United Way of San Luis Obispo County, and as the civilian representative on the Parole Board of the County of San Luis Obispo Probation Department. His personal yardstick for determining how and where to focus his energy was: “Serve others, nurture potential, enrich lives.” He was an active board chair for Mission College Prep, the private Catholic school his sons attended. Like his father before him, he helped chauffeur his sons to practice, traveling teams, and tournaments, missing his front-row seat at their games only when he was traveling for business. He organized a mentoring program at the California Polytechnic State University (Cal Poly) Orfalea School of Business. He was also loyal to his alma mater, serving in various volunteer roles around fundraising and community service. 

Following his divorce and his family’s relocation to the East, he and the family dog, Oreo, drove east in 2015 to live fulltime at his favorite place, the Lane family shore house. After years of visiting Bay Head some part of each summer, he settled into a life of hosting family and friends year-round, broken up by trips to see his sons play in high school and college tournaments. He would pick up his mother on the way to Princeton and they’d share a meal and attend Princeton football, basketball and lacrosse games. He decorated the 1880 Shingle Style house he lived in with vintage maps and photographs of old Bay Head. His interest in the small town’s growth led him to work on other house histories, which he donated to the Bay Head Historical Society as a fundraiser.

Like many people diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, he learned of it by accident, during preliminary tests for a hip replacement in 2018. He started this unexpected chapter by determining to live in the present, to face his diagnosis head-on. He shared that outlook with friends and family, and soon had a steady flow of visitors from all over the country and different periods of his life. Every two weeks, he’d choose the most central seat for chemo, so he could learn from the experiences of people he’d never see again. He chatted up all sorts of medical professionals — physicians assistants, his pharmacist and chemo technicians, surgeons, and dieticians.

A year after his diagnosis, his 94-year-old mother began to fail as he regained health. He joined in a rotation with his sisters, spending a few days a week visiting her, getting her outside on sunny days, watching TV sports with her. By the time the pandemic stranded her in her nursing home in mid-March, he had begun losing weight. He was determined to move her to the shore house where she had spent so many Augusts. He would call relatives and old friends of hers, letting her talk in those early weeks, later putting the calls on speakerphone so he could speak for her. When she died peacefully in early June, his health had started to decline. 

He pushed on, determined to regain strength. He became a grandfather in September, and talked of moving to Charleston for the winter, to be near this sweet new life he was sharing through facetime sessions. He was hospitalized for weeks in October and November, and by Thanksgiving realized he was dying, as a steady circle of family and friends helped fuel his spirit. To his great joy, all three sons, his daughter-in-law, and granddaughter visited for days right before his death.

He is survived by his sons, Arthur Scannell Lane and wife, Gabby, parents of Camden Elizabeth, of Charleston, S.C., Kerney Glavin Lane and fiancée, Ashley Dodson, of Huntsville, Ala.; and Everett Richard Lane, of Oxford, Miss.; six brothers and sisters, Sarah K. Lane (Sam Graff), of Trenton, N.J.; A. Stephen Lane, Jr. (Marie) of Groton, Mass.; Mark K. Lane (Linda Axelrod), of Little Falls, N.J.; Catherine S. Lane (Stephen Jacobs), of Colorado Springs, Colo.; Mary K. Lane, of Weehawken, N.J.; and Teresa D. Lane (Edward Nelson), of Basking Ridge, N.J.; 13 nieces and nephews, as well as great-nieces and great-nephews, and many cousins.

Funeral arrangements will await a time when his family and friends can join in celebrating Henry’s life.

Donations in his memory may be sent to the San Luis Obispo County Y.M.C.A., 1020 Southwood Drive, San Luis Obispo, Calif. 93401, or to the Bay Head Historical Society, P.O. Box 127, Bay Head, N.J. 

———

Roslyn Denard

Roslyn Denard, a longtime resident of Princeton, died at the age of 96 on December 31st at Stonebridge in Skillman, NJ.

Roz was born and raised in Brooklyn, New York, and graduated with a degree in Political Science from the University of Pennsylvania. She was married to her loving husband, Norman, of 73 years. Norm and Roz moved to Princeton in the early ’50s where they created a wonderful home for their three children.

In 1962 Roz started working at the Princeton Packet, selling classified ads over the phone, and retired 32 years later as General Manager of the group of 13 regional newspapers. Throughout her tenure with the Packet her business passion never waned. 

After Roz retired she became a Princeton Township Committee woman for the next six years. One of the major accomplishments during her term on the Township Committee was the formation of the Human Services Commission in 1998. This included involvement with Secure@Home and Chore Corps, a community service spinoff of Community Without Walls (CWW — an outstanding Princeton organization that makes it possible for people to stay in their own homes as long as they so desire and are able to do so). Roz was extremely proud to be one of the founders of CWW.

As an advocate of services for senior citizens, Ms. Denard’s key causes included bringing market-rate senior housing to Princeton and building a senior center in town through the Coalition for Senior Housing.

She was also a member of the Final Exit Network, a volunteer right-to-die organization, as well as a volunteer at Reading for the Blind.

Leadership was clearly a strength of hers as was demonstrated by her commitment to her community at The Jewish Center as President of the Women’s Division for many years between 1956 and 1970. She also played a key role in the building of and the moving to its current location.

Experiencing the world and its varied cultures was also a priority in her and her husband’s lives, subsequently leading to visits to over 50 countries worldwide and many states within America. The two always brought back, among other things, incredible stories and pictures.

Both she and Norm made frequent trips to NYC, Philadelphia, and DC to experience museums, theater, musical performances, and to participate in civil-rights marches. If you knew Roz, you knew she was a lover of art, music, history, and architecture. She loved to make things happen, was an outstanding communicator, a high achiever, and loved living in Princeton. Roz was incredibly grateful for the wonderful life she had which  was truly enhanced by her lifelong friendships made right here in Princeton.

Roslyn is survived by her husband Norman, her son Jeff, and her daughter Lisa Denard (Peter Koval), as well as five grandchildren, Sean, Jessica, Tracy, Amanda, and Alexis, and two great-grandchildren, Evelyn and Walker. She is predeceased by her parents Jack and Fan Silvers, her sister Maxine Bradie, and her daughter, Karen Denard Goldman.

A memorial service will be planned for a later date.

———

Donald Charles Long

Donald Charles Long of Doylestown, PA, formerly of Yardley, PA, passed away on December 22 at the age of 83 after a long illness.

For 60 years he was the loving husband of Doris R. Long. He was also the devoted father of Donna L. Long and David B. Long and the proud grandfather of Merritt C. Long. He is also survived by his younger brother Barry Long of Charlotte, NC.

Donald was born in Allentown, PA, in July 1937 to Charles and Pearl Long and grew up in neighboring Emmaus, PA. He graduated from Emmaus High School in 1955 and then earned a BS degree in electrical engineering from Penn State
University in 1959. For many years afterwards, Donald, Doris, and a loyal group of friends would attend Penn State home football games at Beaver Stadium. 

After marrying the former Doris R. Landis in 1960 at Saint Luke’s Evangelical Lutheran Church in Dublin, PA, Donald and Doris lived in the Germantown section of Philadelphia where Donald worked at Philco while earning his master’s degree in electrical engineering at the Drexel Institute of Technology (now Drexel University) in 1964. After graduation he got a job building satellites for RCA in Hightstown, NJ, and they moved to Yardley borough, eventually buying a house for their growing family in Lower Makefield Township. After a few years, Donald moved to a new job as a research engineer at Princeton University’s Department of Astrophysical Sciences. There he worked on various projects including building cameras for sounding rockets and large astronomical telescopes. In 1983 he moved over to the Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory on the Forrestal Campus of Princeton University where he designed diagnostic equipment for large tokamak nuclear fusion reactors, eventually retiring in 2002.  

Ever the avid outdoorsman, as a youth Donald raised pigeons and trapped muskrats to earn pocket money. As an adult, he enjoyed fishing and hunting deer, bear, and turkey, particularly in Elk and Cameron Counties in northwestern Pennsylvania. He was a founding member of the “Thirteen Buck” hunting club in Benezette, Elk County, PA, which is located in the home range of the state’s only wild Rocky Mountain Elk herd. 

Donald was also a lifelong home gardener of both vegetables and flowers. For over two decades he had a community garden plot in Lower Makefield Township, first at the old Vargo farm on Woodside Road, then at the Patterson Farm, and finally back to the Vargo farm which after 2001 had become the new Memorial Park and Garden of Reflection.  

Due to the pandemic, all services will be private. An outdoor memorial service in the late spring/early summer of 2021 is planned.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Donald’s name can be made to the Alzheimer’s Association at www.alz.org or the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation at www.rmef.org/donate/memorials-honoraria.

Reed and Steinbach Funeral Home, Doylestown; reedandsteinbach.com.

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John Evelyn duPont Irving Jr.

John Evelyn duPont Irving Jr. died at his home in Princeton, New Jersey, on December 13th, 2020.  John was born on December 24th, 1948 in Wilmington, DE, to Louise and John Irving. He is survived by his beloved wife of 30 years, Lynn Lu Irving, and his three children, Geoffrey, Michael, and Anne Irving. He is also survived by his younger siblings Douglas, David, and Carol.

After graduation from St. George’s School in Middleton, RI, in 1967, John attended Kenyon College, where he graduated in 1971. He then enlisted in the United States Army on October 20th, 1971 and served at home and abroad as a Counterintelligence Agent. John left the Army in 1975 as a Sergeant.

After leaving the Army, John moved to Princeton, NJ, and devoted himself to the art of the written word. He made a living as a freelance journalist and contributing author to a number of journals and magazines. John married Lu Xiong Ying (“Lynn”) in 1989. Over the course of the next 30 years, John worked as an Editor at the National Association of Scholars while raising his three children in Princeton. He impressed his love of music, art, and the written word onto his children, and was well known for his volunteer work with Princeton Arts Council’s Café Improv and life drawing class. 

John was a loving and caring husband, father, and friend. His loss is mourned by all those who knew him and enjoyed making art with him. His family plans to hold a memorial wake once circumstances permit gatherings again. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Princeton Charter School Capital & Endowment Fund, 100 Bunn Drive, Princeton, NJ 08540. 

December 30, 2020

Obituaries 12/30/2020

Suzanne (Malcolm) Bilyeu

Suzanne (Malcolm) Bilyeu, born March 27, 1934, went to be with the Lord on Sunday, December 20, 2020, at the age of 86.

She was predeceased by her loving husband of 60 years, George W. Bilyeu, Sr. Suzanne is survived by her daughter, Leslie Langer and husband Peter of Wilmington, NC; her son, George Bilyeu, Jr. and wife Melissa of Monmouth Junction, NJ; her daughter, Robin Siegel and husband Kenneth of Naples, FL; and her son, David Bilyeu and wife Laurie of Highlands Ranch, CO. She is also survived by five grandsons: Ian Siegel (wife, Amanda), Eric Siegel (wife, Caroline), George Bilyeu III, Reese Bilyeu, and Shawn Bilyeu; one great-grandson, Connor Siegel; and one great-granddaughter, Amy Siegel.

Born and raised in the Bronx, NY, the daughter of Samuel and Katherine Malcolm, Suzanne graduated from Walton High School in the Bronx, NY. A few years later, Suzanne met her future husband, George Bilyeu, at St. James Episcopal Church where they were married in 1957.

After working for the New York Telephone Co., Suzanne devoted her time to her children and grandchildren.

In 1966, Suzanne and her family moved to North Brunswick, NJ, where they lived for 30 years, before moving to Princeton, NJ.

Suzanne was a strong woman of God whose life was transformed through her faith in Jesus. She was an active member of Nassau Christian Center for many years. Through her strong faith and belief in the power of prayer, she was always a source of encouragement to her family and friends. Her witness and testimony of faith in Jesus will be part of her legacy passed on to many who knew her. 

Suzanne was a dedicated wife, mother, and grandmother. Together she and George enjoyed traveling and supporting their children and then grandchildren in sports and musical performances. Words often used to describe Suzanne are kind, quick witted, giving, thoughtful, honest, considerate, helpful, and generous. She will be greatly missed by her family and friends.

The family would like to express their sincere gratitude to the wonderful staff at Acorn Glen Assisted Living who cared for both Suzanne and George for several years. 

Due to COVID-19, no service will be held at this time.

———

Robert Stanton “Bob” Garver

Robert Stanton “Bob” Garver, of Princeton Junction, NJ, died peacefully at his home on Saturday, December 19th, surrounded by his loving wife and children.

Born in Utica, NY, in 1942, Bob was the son of Walter Benjamin “Ben” Garver and Elizabeth C. Garver (née Stanton). He graduated from Utica Free Academy in 1960, and was a member of the Union College Class of 1964. He received a master’s degree from Pace University in 1970.

Bob spent a 35-year career in corporate lending and private banking in New York City. During a series of corporate mergers, Bob worked for Manufacturers Hanover Trust Company, Chemical Bank, Chase Bank, and ultimately retired from J.P. Morgan Chase in 2002.

Bob married his wife Elizabeth Ann (née Ryan) in 1967 and together they raised four children and were blessed with eight grandchildren.

Although Bob was an active supporter of many charitable and community organizations, the main focus of his life outside of his family was St. David the King Roman Catholic Church, a parish he helped establish and which sustained him in his final days. Bob was a former Trustee, and served as a Lector and a Eucharistic Minister at St. David the King.

Bob was a member of the Knights of Columbus Council #14716 at St. David the King, volunteered with the youth reading program at Martin House in Trenton, and was a member of many organizations including the Princeton Photography Club, the Anglers’ Club of New York, the Atlantic Salmon Federation, and Trout Unlimited. Bob’s involvement in the community included youth sports, notably serving as president of the West Windsor PBA basketball program for several years. He also volunteered as a photographer at numerous fundraising events for the National Multiple Sclerosis Society.

An avid fly fisherman, Bob passed on his love for the outdoors to his children on countless canoe trips and fishing expeditions — and especially on annual trips to the Ausable River in the Adirondack Mountains of New York State. Bob was also a talented and enthusiastic photographer, and loved to document family vacations and his grandchildren’s school and recreational events, often tracking down the parents of their teammates to make sure that he was able to share photographs of their children as well.

He is survived by his wife of 53 years, Elizabeth; four children: Rob Garver and his wife, Stacey Dash, of Alexandria, VA; Tom Garver and his wife, Jenn, of Springfield, VA; Jennifer Landis and her husband, John, of Skillman, NJ; and Karin Garver, of Lawrenceville, NJ; as well as eight grandchildren: Jack, Ryan, Ben, Andrew, Lauren, Anna, Liam, and Connor. He is also survived by his sister, Gail Grinnell, of Williamson, NY, and three nephews: Christopher, Ian, and Joshua Bieszad.

In keeping with Bob’s wishes that the community he loved remain safe, his family will observe a private mass of Christian burial. A public celebration of his life will take place at St. David the King at a time when people can gather safely.

In lieu of flowers, please consider honoring Bob’s memory by making a donation to your local food bank. At a time when so many in our communities are struggling to put food on the table, the family is certain that Bob would appreciate any effort to lighten their burden.

———

Mary Maxine Stadele

Mary Maxine Stadele, 74, of Belle Mead, New Jersey, passed away on December 17, 2020 due to complications from cancer. Affectionately known as “Max,” she died peacefully at home with family by her side.

Maxine was born on January 22, 1946 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania to Anne and Russell Bennett and grew up in Glen Burnie, Maryland, a suburb of Baltimore. As a successful model she was discovered by television talent scouts and at the age of 16 was featured prominently as a lead cast member on the famed Buddy Dean Show, which was the inspiration for the popular film Hairspray.

After leaving the show, she pursued a career in her other love: art and antiques. Maxine ultimately opened Ladylike Antiques in Flemington, New Jersey. She built a thriving business where collectors, interior decorators, and even set designers acquired unique pieces.

When Maxine wasn’t scouring auction houses and estate sales, she enjoyed film and theater to such a degree that she decided to take up an acting career of her own. She appeared in numerous showcase plays with Group Productions in New York City. Her credits include Deus Ex Machina and Mona in the Morning.

Maxine also had a deep passion for horseback riding and charity work. She was a devoted fundraiser for a variety of institutions including the Matheny School, the United States Equestrian Team, and the Somerset Medical Center.

Maxine’s beloved husband of 53 years, Lee Stadele, passed away on December 26. She is lovingly remembered by her two sons, Owen Stadele and Bill Venizelos; their wives, Elizabeth Stadele and Cynthia Venizelos; her grandchildren, Will, Virginia, Sullivan and Weston; and her former husband, John Venizelos.

The family will receive visitors at Kimble Funeral Home in Princeton on Wednesday, January 6 between 9-11 a.m.  A private funeral service will be held at Montgomery United Methodist Church.    

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

———

Wilbur Lee Stadele

Wilbur Lee Stadele, 82, of Belle Mead, New Jersey, passed away on December 26, 2020 due to complications from cancer. Lee died with family by his side. 

Lee was born on October 28, 1938 in Somerville, NJ, to Wilber and Mabel Stadele, and grew up in Middlesex, NJ. He attended Wardlaw-Hartridge Preparatory School in Plainfield, NJ, and went on to Brown University, where he wrote for the Brown Daily Herald.

After college, his love of music led him into the church organ industry. In his lifetime, he installed over 2500 organs for churches, homes, and events. One of his proudest career highlights was setting up the organ for Pope Benedict’s 2008 Papal Mass at Yankee Stadium. 

When not designing and installing organs, Lee loved restoring antique furniture, skiing, collecting art, and improving his historic farm. 

He was preceded in death by his loving wife of 53 years, Mary Maxine Stadele. 

Lee is lovingly remembered by his sister Marjorie Aamodt, and his sons and daughters: Lee Stadele (son), and his children Julia Macchione, Emma Stadele, Laura Stadele; Kurt (son) and Sarah Stadele, and their children Kyle and Cameron; Karen (daughter) and Monte Riddle, and their children Evan, Zoey and Isabelle; Marjorie Bedford (daughter) and Henry King; William (son) and Cindi Venizelos, and their children Will and Virginia; and Owen (son) and Elizabeth Stadele and their children, Sullivan and Weston; and great-grandchildren Sadie and Barrett. 

The family will receive visitors on Wednesday, January 6, between 9-11 a.m. at Kimble Funeral Home in Princeton. A private funeral service will be held at Montgomery United Methodist Church later that day.    

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

———

Shirley E. Nicholson

Shirley E. Nicholson, 91, a longtime resident of Princeton, New Jersey, very sadly passed away at her retirement community in Ottawa, Canada, on December 15th, 2020.

Shirley was born in Ottawa, Canada, on April 14th, 1929, to Edith Hunt. Shirley was married to William Nicholson on August 29th, 1952 in Ottawa, Ontario. Once William completed University they moved to Montreal where she had her two children. After a short stay in Montreal, the family moved to Lansdale, PA, where they lived for over 10 years. In 1973, the family moved to a house on Turner Court in Princeton where they lived until the beginning of this year.

Shirley loved to dance and sing. She was a member of the choir and a guest soloist at some of the local churches in Princeton. She was also a member of the Princeton Opera Company which usually performed at Washington Crossing State Park open air theater during the late ’70s and early ’80s. Shirley sang in performances such as The Pirates of Penzance, HMS Pinafore, and The Mikado. She enjoyed participating as a member of the Acapella choir at the Trenton War Memorial Building. Every chance Shirley had, she would get involved in theater, vocal performance, and opera.

Shirley also enjoyed the ocean and spent many summers at their home in Barnegat Light on LBI. During the winter holidays, Shirley and William would spend time in Puerto Rico at the ESJ Towers.

Shirley is survived by her loving husband William; two children, Pamela Lahoda, her husband Eric, Michael Nicholson, his wife Sarun; her grandchildren, Sarah and Jason Lahoda, Mya, Sofie and William Nicholson Jr.; and her beloved sister, Beverly Swords.

The family would like to thank Dr. Barile, Atkins Care and Susan and Jack McCaskie from Princeton, NJ, the staff on the 2nd floor at Sterling Park Retirement, the staff at Ottawa Civic hospital including Melanie Morris, and the staff at Embassy West Retirement in Ottawa, Canada, for all their love, kindness, and caring for Shirley in the last years of her life.

In lieu of flowers, the family is asking for donations to help aspiring artists at Princeton Friends of Opera, P.O. Box 2359, Princeton, NJ 08543-2359.

———

Ann Tomlinson Reed

Ann Tomlinson Reed, 98, died on December 14 at Stonebridge in Skillman, NJ, where she had moved from her home in Princeton in January 2004. Born in Princeton on May 5, 1922, she was the daughter of Paul Greene Tomlinson, former director of the Princeton University Press, and Gabriella Prout Tomlinson. She was the widow of Edward C. Rose, Jr., and the former wife of the late Samuel C. Finnell, Jr., and the late James A. Reed.  

She was born at 45 Cleveland Lane, which her father had arranged to have pulled by horses from its original location across town. She attended Miss Fine’s School in Princeton and graduated from Westover School in Middlebury, CT. After she and Sam Finnell were married, they lived on Cabbage Row in Charleston, SC, the setting that became famous as Catfish Row in George Gershwin’s opera Porgy and Bess. After Charleston, they moved to St. Louis and Princeton before settling for many years in Longmeadow, MA, to raise their four children. In 1964 they moved to Old Greenwich, CT, where she was elected to the Greenwich Representative Town Meeting and served as President of the Greenwich Chapter of Planned Parenthood. There, she also rekindled a love of sailing that had begun during childhood summers spent in Mantoloking. 

Returning to Princeton in 1970, she became a trustee of Stony Brook Millstone Watershed Association and the Friends of Princeton Open Space and served as President of the Garden Club of Princeton. An enthusiastic volunteer wherever she lived, she also enjoyed reading, tennis, golf, gardening, and walks in the woods accompanied by her dogs, with family time the most important. For many years, she was the host of the family Thanksgiving gathering, an occasion her children and grandchildren remember as happy times filled with games, laughter, food, and more walks. As her grandchildren grew, each had to learn to keep up with their fast-walking Gran. Her humor, intelligence, sharp wit, love of history, and unmatched memory were an inspiration to all who knew her. 

Predeceased by her daughter Gabriella F. Eggers, her brother, Henry P. Tomlinson,  and son-in-law Francois Vuilleumier, she is survived by daughters Rebecca B. Finnell and Ann T. Finnell (Peter Tomlinson); son Samuel C. Finnell III (Molly Murdoch); son-in-law Chris Eggers; grandchildren Ann Thacker (Ryan), Isabelle Foley (Ben), Margaret Finnell, Louise Finnell Trapasso (Jon), Samuel C. Finnell IV (Morgan), and four great-grandchildren. Also survived by stepdaughters Barbara Rose and Hope R. Angier. 

Burial private. Memorial contributions may be made to SAVE or Planned Parenthood.

December 23, 2020

Obituaries 12/23/2020

David Blair

If you met David Blair, you were unlikely to forget him! Standing at over 6’4” with an impressive mustache and an infectious smile, David was known for his warmth, generosity, and whip-smart sense of humor. When stories are told of a man’s cowboy boot wearing, kilt donning, gator dancing, and various turns as Santa, you know that his was a life well-lived. 

David was born in 1945 in Youngstown, Ohio, to Jean and Howard Blair and grew up there and in Millburn, NJ, where he developed a love of golf and basketball and graduated Millburn High School in 1963. He attended Princeton University, where he was a member of Cap and Gown Club (where he would later serve as Vice Chair of the Trustee Board), played more golf and basketball, and graduated in 1967 with a degree from the school of Public and International Affairs. David’s time at Princeton was formative, and he maintained a lifelong relationship with the University, Tiger activities, and the alumni network. He could reliably be found at reunions’ P-rades marching with his class and family. David met Mary Barnes at the end of his time as a Princeton student (Vassar road trips), and they were married in 1968.

David graduated from Columbia University in 1970, with a joint JD/MBA. He joined White & Case where he made partner in 1979. While at White & Case, he was part of the lead team working with the banks to prevent the financial collapse of New York City in 1975. It was during this time that David and Mary moved to New Jersey and ultimately settled in Summit, NJ, where they raised their family. There are so many good memories from their two decades in Summit: baseball and soccer coach, dance chaperone (in the boots, naturally), paddle tennis nights, and endless rounds of golf at Baltusrol, capped off by gin tournaments at the card table. 

In 1984, David joined Morgan Stanley and Co. in New York in the tax exempt department and eventually became a managing director and joined the private wealth division. By 2000 when he retired, he was the head of Private Wealth Management for Europe, Africa, and the Middle East and Chairman of Global Risk Management. Beyond his official titles, he mentored and guided many at Morgan Stanley, sharing his strong moral compass and incredible knowledge of the industry. For the final stretch of David’s career with Morgan Stanley, he and Mary moved to London. Their time in London was spent making lifelong friends, traveling Europe, and enjoying lots of pubs, rugby, and of course, golf.

David and Mary returned to the States in 2000 and moved to Princeton, NJ. Not one to take retirement with his feet up, David began working at the newly-formed Bendheim Center for Finance at Princeton University. He served as their first Director of Corporate Relations from 2000 to 2010, helping to create the new Masters in Finance program, and advising graduate and undergraduate students on internships and future employment. His greatest pleasure was teaching a Freshman Seminar on Modern Financial Markets; working with the students was something he relished, and he was tickled to be called Professor Blair.

David spent the last few years of his life at Stonebridge at Montgomery, a Springpoint Senior Living facility, as he bravely faced Parkinson’s disease. His time at a Springpoint facility was fitting, as he had served as a trustee on the Springpoint Foundation Board for 12 years, including stretches as head of their Planning and Finance committees.  

David is survived by his wife of over 50 years Mary Blair, as well as his two children, David Blair with wife Thuy, and Kate Elliott with husband Brendan. In addition, he has three grandchildren, Jack, Nora, and Rosie Elliott, who have inherited his love of the New York Mets, his sharp card skills, and his utter joy for living. David has two brothers, Christopher Blair (deceased) and Robert Blair, along with numerous nieces and nephews who fondly remember bodysurfing in Duck, NC, and losing at poker.

Due to Covid-19, the family is postponing a memorial until later in 2021, when the scotch can flow, the Willie Nelson can play, and the stories can shake the rafters with laughter.

Donations in David’s honor can be made to the Parkinson’s Foundation and Princeton AlumniCorps.

———

Joseph E. Bachelder, III

Joseph E. Bachelder, III died peacefully at home on December 13, 2020. He was 88 years old. Mr. Bachelder was a longtime resident of Princeton along with his wife of 65 years, Louise.

After graduating from Harvard Law School in 1958, Joe focused on tax law. Eventually that interest led to his becoming one of the country’s top lawyers in the field of executive compensation. He is credited with the development of the “golden parachute,” which brought executive pay to a new and tax-advantaged level.

In the 1980s Joe established The Law Offices of Joseph E. Bachelder, also known as Bachelder Law Office. Most recently he was of counsel to the New York office of McCarter and English. He was a regular contributor to the New York Law Journal for over 30 years. His last column was published at the end of June of this year. Over the last years, Joe lectured on the subject of executive pay at academic institutions, including Harvard, Columbia, and Stanford and before professional groups, including the American Bar Association. He was also a graduate of Yale University and Exeter Academy. He was selected as New York Super Lawyer by rating agency Super Lawyers in 2012.

Joe was also well known for his love of tennis. He taught tennis in Princeton in the summers to help pay for law school. In 1954 he met Louise on the Princeton University tennis courts. Joe also served on the Princeton Township Zoning Board from 1980-82. Joe was a former trustee of Concord Academy. Joe and his wife were longtime members of Bedens Brook Club, The Nassau Club, the Yale Club of New York, and the Siasconset Tennis Club on Nantucket.

Besides his wife Louise, Joe is survived by his three daughters, Lisa Alcock (Peter) of Vero Beach, FL, and Gloucester, MA; Cary Dufresne (David) of Charlotte, NC; and Hilary Bachelder of New York, NY. He was the grandfather of four: Peter Alcock of Brooklyn, NY; Caroline Cunningham (James) of Dubai, UAE; Louise Serio (Will) of Berkeley, CA; and Mason Dufresne of Washington, DC. Also surviving are his sister Jane Johnson (Peter) of Darby, VT, and brother Stephan Bachelder (Deborah) of Yarmouth, ME.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Joe’s name to Princeton First Aid and Rescue Squad (2 Mt. Lucas Road, Princeton, NJ 08540) or the Annual Fund of Concord Academy (166 Main Street, Concord, MA 01742).

December 16, 2020

Obituaries 12/16/2020

Courtney Alexis Leopold

A beloved daughter, granddaughter, niece, cousin, and friend left this world on Monday, November 30th, at 32 years of age. Born in Trenton, New Jersey, on July 8, 1988, Courtney grew up in Princeton and Burlington, NJ, where she attended All Saints Grammar School and was awarded the President’s Medal for Academic Achievement.

Courtney graduated from Princeton Day School in 2006. She studied piano and voice at Westminster Choir College for many years, where she was part of their Cantus Choir. She graduated cum laude from The College of New Jersey in 2010, majoring in Psychology with a minor in Spanish. Courtney was inducted into the Golden Key Honor Society, and Psi Chi National Psychology Honor Society. As a Psychology Honors student, Courtney was a research assistant in the Memory and Aging Lab, followed by a psychology externship at the William James Psychology Building at Harvard University’s Emotion Health and Physiology Lab. In 2012, she was awarded a Master’s degree in Counseling from Loyola Marymount University in Los Angeles, became a Certified Yoga Therapist while there, inducted into the Alpha Sigma Nu Jesuit Honor Society, and Kappa Delta Pi International Education Honor Society.  A straight “A” graduate student, Courtney became a Licensed Associate Counselor in 2016 helping children, teens, and adults in the Cherry Hill area, and was an adjunct professor in the psychology department at The College of New Jersey.

Her passion was yoga and the mind-body connection, having taught yoga in Princeton at Gratitude Yoga, Yoga Above, and Honor Yoga, as well as yoga studios in Southern New Jersey, and Los Angeles. One of her projects was teaching yoga to underprivileged children in Trenton. She was a talented yogi with many followers.

Courtney had great faith in the Lord as evidenced by her care, love, and concern for others. Some of her projects included working with children at the Puerto Rican Daycare Center in Trenton, and doing chair yoga for seniors at a nursing home in Los Angeles. She insisted on changing her assigned clinical counseling hours to work with high school students whose parents were in gangs, or were in gangs themselves, and counseled them regarding coping skills, including yoga and meditation. Courtney asked to be transferred from Beverly Hills High School while in her master’s program training to a Latino high school in East LA where the primary language was Spanish. Courtney was always reaching out and pushing herself to go to areas most people do not want to go, for purposes of helping others.

She was also a dancer, singer, writer, and artist. Courtney excelled in every area of her life, and combined intellect, art, and passion in every endeavor. Highly spiritual and
compassionate, a docent at Kidsbridge Tolerance Museum, a lover of animals, the beach, and all of nature, she was a beautiful soul. She especially loved her dogs, Trixie and Tommy. She loved to travel, having been to Nairobi, Kenya (to help reintegrate enslaved women into society), Ecuador, Mexico, Israel, London, and throughout the U.S.

She is survived by her father, Clayton E. Leopold, MD of Princeton, her mother Joyce Solero, her stepfather Ivan Solero, and her grandparents Dolores and John Zalewski ( “Babci and Dziadzi”) of Burlington, NJ. She was preceded in death by grandparents Carol and Harvey Leopold of New York City.

She will be deeply missed by her family, clients, and her many yoga students, and all who knew her. Courtney always reminded us that the springtime was a time of rebirth and renewal. Therefore, a Celebration of Life service and memorial will be held in the spring and more information will be posted at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting that a donation be made in Courtney’s name when a foundation in her name is created in the spring.

———

Mary Ellen Telfeian

Mary Ellen Telfeian, age 84, of Princeton, NJ, died on Sunday, December 6, 2020. 

She was predeceased by her husband of 26 years, Artin Telfeian, M.D., in 1989. She is survived by her three children, Arthur Telfeian (Victoria), Albert Telfeian, M.D., Ph.D. (Jennifer), and Ann Mary Telfeian; her grandsons Sean and Ryan, Clark and Brooks; and her brother Dan Carey (Ronnie). 

Mary Ellen graduated from the College of Mount Saint Vincent, Riverdale, NY, earning a B.S., and later earned her master’s degree in nursing at N.Y.U. 

She served as a nurse at St. Vincent Hospital in Manhattan and at Greenwich Hospital, Greenwich, CT.  She met her husband Artin, through a priest friend, playing bridge. They married, raised their three children in, first, Stamford, Connecticut, then near Sembach Airforce Base and McGuire Airforce Base, where Artin was a Lieutenant Colonel in the Air Force. They both worked at Deborah Heart & Lung Hospital in Brownsville, New Jersey. After Artin’s death, she moved to Princeton, New Jersey and, very proudly, worked as a nurse at the Princeton University Infirmary. 

Mary Ellen was a devout Roman Catholic who attended mass at St. Paul Parish in Princeton. She was also a very active member in the Spanish speaking community in Princeton.

Due to the current COVID-19 pandemic restrictions, a Memorial Mass, in St. Paul Parish, will be scheduled in the Spring of 2021. Please go to TheKimbleFuneralHome.com to extend condolences, share memories, and obtain memorial mass update information.

———

Mary Amesbury Stabler

Mary Amesbury Stabler, 85, of Skillman, New Jersey, passed away on December 14, 2020, after contracting COVID-19 in early December.

Mary was born July 16, 1935, in a suburb of Minneapolis, Minnesota, to William and Mildred Amesbury. She was preceded in death by her husband of 54 years, Robert; her sister, Jane Winton; and her brother, Stephen Amesbury. She is survived by her brother, William Amesbury, of Reno, Nevada; her children Julie Hull (Tom) of Shoreline, Washington; Ted (Martha Embrey) of Durango, Colorado; Larry (Betsy) of Princeton, New Jersey; Peggy Fischer of Mercer Island, Washington; Peter (Martha) of San Francisco, California; and 10 grandchildren.

Mary attended The Masters School in Dobbs Ferry, New York, and graduated from Vassar College in 1957. She and Bob raised their family in Ithaca, New York; Newport Beach, CA; and Princeton, New Jersey. They later resided in Breckenridge, Colorado, and Skillman, New Jersey. 

Mary greatly enjoyed reunions with her children and grandchildren and was an avid world traveler, bridge player, knitter, reader, sailor, and New York Times crossword solver. She resided in independent living at Stonebridge at Montgomery at the time of her death.

———

Joan A. Eisenmann

Joan A. Eisenmann, 84, of Kingston passed away Saturday, December 12, 2020 at Penn Medicine Princeton Medical Center of Plainsboro, NJ.

Joan was born in Princeton, NJ. Joan and her husband Karl are lifelong residents of Kingston. She was a life member of The Ladies Auxiliary of Kingston Volunteer Fire Company. Joan was also a member of Kingston Presbyterian Church for over 50 years. She was a member of the Kingston Quilting Club since it began in 1999. She was employed by Woodwinds as an office manager. Joan enjoyed cooking, spending time with her family, and shopping with her granddaughters.

She is survived by her loving husband of 65 years Karl Eisenmann, daughter and son-in-law Shari and Richard Russo, son and daughter-in-law Gary and Jane Eisenmann, five grandchildren Kimberly (David) Reed, Carly (Christopher) Whittaker, Veronica Eisenmann, Emily Russo, Jaclyn Eisenmann, and two great-grandchildren Kailey Reed and Courtney Reed. 

Burial will be in Kingston Presbyterian Church Cemetery, Kingston on Saturday, December 19 at 11 a.m. Family and friends are permitted at the graveside. Visitation and Service will be by family invitation only due to COVID-19 restrictions.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Kingston Presbyterian Church. Arrangements are under the direction of the M.J. Murphy Funeral Home.

———

David Balitz

David Balitz, age 68, passed away at his home in Ewing, NJ, on Sunday, December 13, 2020.

David was a lifelong resident of Ewing, graduating from Ewing High School.

For the past 18 years he was the director of mail operations and services at Princeton University. Previously he worked at the New Jersey Division of Taxation. David was an avid golfer and loved watching sports and movies with his wife, Joan. He also enjoyed visiting Atlantic City and rooting for the Los Angeles Dodgers.

Predeceased by his parents Abe and Virginia Balitz, and his brother Robert Balitz. He is survived by his loving wife Joan Balitz.

A memorial service will be held Saturday, December 19 at 11 a.m. at Orland’s Ewing Memorial Chapel, 1534 Pennington Road, Ewing, NJ. Masks and social distancing are required, Covid-19 restrictions on building capacity are enforced. The service will be live streamed for those who cannot attend in person.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society.

To view the service live stream and to send condolences visit OrlandsMemorialChapel.com.

———

Donald S. Knutson

Donald S. Knutson, 88, passed away peacefully at Artis Senior Living in Princeton, NJ, with family at his side on December 11, 2020. Born June 24, 1932 in Hartford, CT, to the late Axel J. and Helga (Johnson) Knutson. He grew up in Wethersfield, CT, and spent many, joyful summers at the family farm in Waterville, Quebec. Family and relatives were always an important part of his life and he stayed well-connected with all of them throughout his life.

Following graduation from Trinity College in Hartford, CT, with a Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Donald went to work for Westinghouse. He went on to earn a Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering at Drexel University in Philadelphia. He accepted an engineering position at Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory in early 1966, where he worked on fusion energy research, and ultimately the Tokamak Fusion Test Reactor (TFTR). Donald became Principal Engineer of the Mechanical Engineering Section. He retired from the Laboratory in 1997 after 31 years.

Donald was a lifelong player and fan of ice hockey, and greatly enjoyed participation as part of Princeton University’s Intramural League. He was an accomplished accordion player and performed, recorded, and traveled with the Scandinavian Accordion Club of NY. He was a closet-historian who extensively researched genealogy and published books on his family’s history dating back to the time of Vikings in Scandinavia.

Donald and Gunilla, his wife of 44 years, enjoyed traveling together internationally, especially to Sweden. They also were fond of classical music, opera, and theater. Donald loved spending time with his six grandchildren. He enjoyed seeing family in their lakeside cottage in Harrisville, NH. Don was a talented builder who finished large projects such as a garage and sauna. He will be remembered fondly for his kind disposition, gentle nature, and generosity. 

He was predeceased in 1972 by his first wife Barbro E. (Bjornsson) Knutson.

He is survived by his wife, Ebba Gunilla (Olsson) Knutson; his daughters, Ellen (Mark) Kramm, Lisa (Donald) Hamnes, Carol Knutson, Linda (Andrew) Fiscus, and Maria (Nathan) Adkins; and six grandchildren, Karin, Sarah, Grete, Daniel, Steven, and Klara.

A memorial service will be planned for a later date in Harrisville, NH.

In lieu of flowers, honorary donations to a favorite charity are welcome.

Arrangements are under the direction of Mather-Hodge Funeral Home, Princeton.

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Barbara Alice Gillespie

Barbara Alice Gillespie, 89, passed away peacefully on Monday, November 23, 2020 in Monroe Township, NJ.

Born November 21, 1931 in Los Angeles, CA, to Alice Greiner and Ernst Arnold Lugenbill, Barbara graduated from Pepperdine College and married Thomas W. Gillespie in 1953. They spent the first year of their happy 58-year marriage in Princeton, NJ, where Tom was a student at Princeton Theological Seminary and Barbara taught school nearby. Partners in life and ministry, they returned to California where they served two Presbyterian congregations and raised three children. They returned to Princeton in 1983 when Tom was called to serve as the 5th President of Princeton Theological Seminary. Barbara is remembered for her wit and gracious hospitality, opening their home to friends, students, faculty, staff, and alumni. Barbara was energetic and creative, enjoying quilting and other needle arts, cooking, gardening, and travel.

A beloved mother and grandmother, Barbara is survived by daughters Robyn Glassman (Kenneth) and Dayle Rounds (Stephen), son Bill Gillespie, and six grandchildren: William Glassman, Trevor Glassman, Hilary Glassman, Emily Rounds, Allie Rounds, and Isla Gillespie.

A private burial at the Princeton Cemetery took place Saturday, November 28, 2020. A memorial service will be planned for a future date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Barbara’s name to Nassau Presbyterian Church or to the Thomas Gillespie Scholarship fund at Princeton Theological Seminary.

———

Beverly M. Silverman

Mrs. Beverly M. Silverman, 94, of Woodcliff Lake, NJ, and a longtime former resident of Princeton, NJ, passed away on December 10th, 2020.

Beverly Miller was born and raised in Baltimore, MD, the daughter of Isadore and Sophie Miller. She graduated from Goucher College in 1948. That year, she married Dr. Benjamin K. Silverman. After Beverly taught elementary school for a year, the couple moved around the country as Ben completed his medical residency, military service, and fellowship. In 1954, they settled in Princeton for Ben to start his pediatric practice and to raise their family.

In Princeton, Beverly became an engaged member of the community. She taught at the Stuart School, and was an active mother in the schooling of her four sons. She adored art and enjoyed many visits to the Princeton University Art Museum, as well as museums in New York City. For many years, she and Ben belonged to a theater group of close friends that attended regular performances at McCarter Theatre. Beverly loved Princeton and all that it had to offer her family. She was also the architect of many family vacations to different parts of the country. Later, as the family had scattered to different states, she and Ben purchased a beach house in Bay Head, NJ, to serve as a central gathering place for children and grandchildren. To her grandchildren, she was “Grammy,” provider of love, card games, and chocolate doughnuts.

Perhaps Beverly’s greatest accomplishment came in the care and nurturing that she provided to her son Steve, who was born with a congenital heart defect. Through Steve’s numerous surgeries and ultimately two heart transplants, she and Ben helped him to grow, thrive, and lead an independent life. They left Princeton in 1991 and moved to California, where Steve worked, to help him recover from his first transplant and stayed there until his passing in 2009. 

Beverly is predeceased by her parents, her beloved husband of 62 years, Dr. Benjamin K. Silverman, her son Steven, and her brothers Louis Miller and S. Murray Miller. Survivors include her sons Richard (Mary) of Cupertino, CA, Robert (Joanne) of Austin, TX, and Jonathan (Anne Marie) of Upper Saddle River, NJ. Survivors also include her seven grandchildren, Scott, Lara, Sarai, Dustin, Allie, Kevin, and Jeremy.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Community Food Bank of New Jersey at https://give.cfbnj.org/BeverlySilverman.

To send condolences visit OrlandsMemorialChapel.com.

December 9, 2020

Obituaries 12/9/2020

Paul J. Hill

Paul Joseph Hill passed away on Monday, November 23, 2020 in Newtown, PA.

A lifelong resident of Princeton, he was born on March 16, 1923 in a house on Aiken Avenue just a block away from the Murray Place home where the family moved to and lived for many years. He grew up with his two older brothers, Homer and Dan, and went to The Nassau Street School for his elementary and junior high education and went on to graduate from Princeton High School in the class of 1940.

After attending Syracuse University with his two brothers, Paul enlisted in the Army in 1942 and was stationed in Los Angeles, California, where he met his wife June, who was living in Beverly Hills at the time. Within four months of their meeting they were married. Paul was honorably discharged February 1946 as a Corporal in the medical detachment of the 1905th Service Command Unit. After leaving California, they moved for a short time to Colorado Springs to be closer to June’s family.

After about a year in Colorado they moved back to Syracuse so Paul could take advantage of the GI Bill and finish his college education; however, within the first year after returning to Syracuse, he received a call from his father Homer M. Hill Sr. requesting that he return to Princeton to manage the store, as his father had fallen ill. Shortly after returning to Princeton from Syracuse, Paul and June built their home on Morgan Place where Paul lived for over 70 years and where they raised their two sons, Dan and Mark.

He was a third generation proprietor of Hill’s Market located on the corner of Witherspoon Street and Spring Street in downtown Princeton. The store was opened in 1909 by his grandfather William D. Hill after he sold the family’s 200-acre farm in Harbourton where the family had lived for many generations. Hill’s Market was destroyed by fire in 1977 after 67 years in business.

A good father, father-in-law, grandfather, and great-grandfather, Paul was very well known in the Princeton Community. He was a member and past general manager of Springdale Golf Club, The Old Guard of Princeton, and The Romeos, where he very much enjoyed his every weekday morning meetings at Bon Appétit in the Princeton Shopping Center with his friends and acquaintances. Paul marched in many Princeton Memorial Day parades and was thrilled to be more recently joined by his great-grandson Sandro.

After his wife June passed in 2013, he became close friends with Lorna June Andre, her daughter Anne Gunter, and her family. They very much enjoyed their time together taking walks and talking about their families.

Paul leaves behind many great memories for all that knew him. His passion for life and the people he knew live on in his rhymes, of which he penned over 100, many of which were published in the Town Topics and Princeton Packet.

Paul is survived by his son and daughter-in-law Dan and Norma Hill of Doylestown; son and daughter-in-law Mark and Beth Hill of Hopewell; Maggi Hill, mother of Ryan, Brady and Rebecca; five grandchildren and their husbands and wives — Ryan and Kyle of Williamsburg/Brooklyn, NY; Caitrin and Matt of Yardley, PA; Braden and Blair of Mullica Hill, NJ; Ellen Hill and Brian Vanderford of Doylestown, PA; Rebecca Hill of Pompano Beach, FL; and six great-grandchildren Sandro, Abram, Rockwell, Evie, Jameson, and Bonnie; niece Jude Erhardt and husband Gary Greely of Maryland; many more nieces and nephews in Colorado; and his close friends and neighbors whom he loved, including his very close friend Ann Goeke and her family.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Princeton High School Scholarship Fund at Fund101.org/donate.

Due to the continuing Covid virus pandemic the family will not be holding any services at this time. A celebration of life service will be scheduled sometime in 2021.

———

Theodore Ziolkowski

1932–2020

Theodore Joseph Ziolkowski, renowned American Germanist and comparatist, prolific author of 35 books on literature, religion, and culture, died around 6 p.m. on December 5, 2020, in Kirkland Village, Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. Known as Professor Ziolkowski to thousands of students in his lecture courses and seminars at Princeton University, and as Dean Ziolkowski from his 13 years at the helm of the Graduate School there, he was Ted to close friends and acquaintances.

Ziolkowski was born on September 30, 1932, in Birmingham, Alabama. His mother, née Cecilia Jankowski, a second-generation Polish-American from the Chicago area, taught piano. His father immigrated to the United States from Poland. A composer and concert pianist who trained at the Stern Conservatory in Berlin and with Ignacy Jan Paderewski, he found security and happiness during the Great Depression as a music professor at the present-day University of Montevallo. In his Americanization, Mieczysław Ziółkowski shed the accents in the spelling of his names and came to be routinely called Professor Z for short.

As a boy, Theodore Ziolkowski (in those days Teddy to almost everyone) excelled scholastically, completing his secondary education at 15. In addition, he starred on the high-school football field and was even offered an athletic scholarship to the University of Alabama. His main extracurricular passion was the trumpet, especially jazz. For many years, he played the brass instrument professionally on most weekends, deriving from it a major source of income until he set the instrument aside in his early thirties. At that juncture he attained a full professorship — and realized that the advent of Elvis Presley would ring the rock-and-roll death knell for his style of trumpeting.

Theodore’s father brought with him all the trappings of an Old World formation. He peppered his heavily accented and colorfully formulated English with proverbs in Latin, German, Polish, and Russian, to mention only four tongues. The lush linguistic texture of the household inspired both his children, Theodore and his much younger brother and future classicist John, to immerse themselves in languages.

Theodore Ziolkowski received his A.B. from Duke University at 18 in 1951 and married Yetta Goldstein, his partner for life, a fellow Alabamian whose father had likewise emigrated from what is today Poland. A year later Ziolkowski earned his A.M. from the same institution, and the young couple had their eldest child, a daughter. In 1957 he took his Ph.D. from Yale University, where he studied under Hermann Weigand, Sterling Professor of German Literature. These busy times witnessed the birth of his first son in 1956, his second in 1958. Also in 1958, Yetta and he forged a friendship in Cologne with Heinrich Böll that would endure until the end of the German novelist’s lifetime.

Ziolkowski’s master’s thesis, focused on the translation of the Iliad by the German Romantic poet Friedrich Hölderlin, gave early evidence of his lifelong preoccupation with the reception of the Classics in later literature. His dissertation, on Hermann Hesse and Novalis, displayed his fascination with the continued vitality of Romanticism in what at that point was still relatively recent German prose: the Nobel prize-winning Hesse did not die until 1962.

After holding short-term appointments for a few years at Yale University, Ziolkowski moved to Columbia University in 1962; but he first attained real permanency when summoned as a full professor to Princeton University in 1964. From the start he taught large lecture courses, especially a perennially popular one on the development of the European novel. In acknowledgment of his teaching and scholarship, in 1969 he was named Class of 1900 Professor of German and Comparative Literature. In administration, his highest and most demanding service extended from 1979 to 1992 as Dean of the Graduate School.

In the 1960s his oeuvre comprised, in longer examinations, one devoted to Hermann Hesse and another tome bearing the title Dimensions of the Modern Novel: German Texts and European Contexts (1969). In the 1970s and 1980s he maintained those areas of attraction but delved ever more into the analysis of literary themes. His most innovative book from this phase may well have been Fictional Transfigurations of Jesus (1972, recipient of the National Book Award). The 1990s saw his range expand yet again, with the far-reaching German Romanticism and Its Institutions (1990), the now-classic Virgil and the Moderns (1993), an exploration of the appearance of legal crises in literature entitled The Mirror of Justice: Literary Reflections of Legal Crises (1997, winner of the Christian Gauss Award from the Phi Beta Kappa Society), a study of the meaning held by towers as an image in literature, and, finally, the first in a series of volumes in German about the cultural role of specific cities in late 18th- and early 19th-century Germany.

After supposedly retiring in 2001 from active duty, Ziolkowski embarked upon what proved to be the most remarkably productive period of his life in book writing, at the tempo of one annually across two decades. As an emeritus, he was kidded admiringly by his family for
behaving like an assistant professor bucking for tenure. Long before retirement, he had earned a quiver of distinctions in North America, such as multiple Fulbrights, a Guggenheim, and a James Russell Lowell Prize, and he had merited recognition from the profession of language-and-literature scholars by election to the presidency of the Modern Language Association. Now his center of gravity was often situated in Europe.

Late in his career Yetta and he were drawn to spend at least a few months each year in Berlin. The devotion to Germany was reciprocated. In due course he was singled out for tribute by his peers there by such honors as the Goethe-Medaille, Jacob-und-Wilhelm-Grimm Preis, Forschungspreis from the Alexander von Humboldt Foundation, and Bundesverdienstkreuz 1. Klasse. On a personal level, he treasured the ties he forged, flanked by his wife, through regular participation in the American Philosophical Society in Philadelphia, the Deutsche Akademie für Sprache und Dichtung in Darmstadt, and the Akademie der Wissenschaften zu Göttingen.

The score of books, mostly in English but sometimes in German, from the past 20 years covers a breathtaking gamut. The final one, just out in 2020, entitled Roman Poets in Modern Guise: The Reception of Roman Poetry since World War I, caps his many explorations of the afterlives that the Greek and Roman Classics have enjoyed from the late eighteenth century until now. But other volumes to attest to his deepening and widening attraction to a host of other topics, especially involving religion and myth, from Gilgamesh down to the present day. Three examples, out of many, are The Sin of Knowledge: Ancient Themes and Modern Variations (2000), Modes of Faith: Secular Surrogates for Lost Religious Belief (2007), and Uses and Abuses of Moses: Literary Representations since the Enlightenment (2016).

Shortly after turning 88, Theodore Ziolkowski entered the advanced stages of heart failure. To the last, he retained his gusto for music and poetry. He rhapsodized about Bach, and he recited from memory German verses by Goethe, Hölderlin, and Novalis, especially those relating to particular sites, from the tops of mountains to the bottoms of mines, that he had visited with his wife of nearly 70 years. Often they would take turns in reciting poems, with a special favorite being Goethe’s “Wanderer’s Nightsong II,” with its closing lines “Warte nur, balde / Ruhest du auch,” translated by Longfellow as “Wait; soon like these / Thou too shalt rest.”

No further new books will appear with the letters Theodore Ziolkowski on the title page. No fourth dozen will spill onto another shelf. In the stock formulation of “publish or perish,” he took care to fulfill the first verb before succumbing to the second. That thought would make him happy, since he liked to finish well and to meet deadlines.

He is survived by his beloved wife Yetta Ziolkowski, of Princeton, NJ, and Bethlehem, PA; brother John Ziolkowski, of Arlington, VA; and daughter Margaret Ziolkowski and her husband Robert Thurston, of Miami, OH; elder son Jan and his wife Elizabeth Ziolkowski, of Newton, MA; and younger son Eric Ziolkowski and his wife Lee Upton, of Easton, PA. Also grieving his loss are a grandson and six granddaughters, along with two great-granddaughters and two great-grandsons. Despite his zeal for reading, learning, and writing, Theodore Ziolkowski cared deeply about those he loved and put his values as a humanist into practice as a richly rounded human being.

———

Dail Archer Forsyth

Dail Archer Forsyth, 84, of Orrtanna, PA, formerly of Princeton, NJ, passed away peacefully on December 1, 2020. She is survived by her loving husband of 62 years Alexander M. Forsyth.

Dail was born in Baltimore, MD, the daughter of the late John Anthony and Margaret Henderson Brawner Archer. She was a graduate of Princeton High in 1954 and attended Dickinson College. She worked for her father’s laundry business, University Cleaners in Princeton, NJ, worked as a Bank Teller for Princeton Bank & Trust, and later for Princeton Day School before retiring to Gettysburg, PA. Dail enjoyed spending time with family, traveling, camping with her IDTT friends, bowling, attending Philadelphia Phillies games, and was a former member of the Princeton First Aid Ladies Auxiliary and a current member of the American Legion Auxiliary Post 262.

In addition to her husband, she is survived by her two daughters, June Miller (Jerry) of Biglerville, and Cindy Stadulis (Tom) of Austin, Texas; seven grandchildren, Jeremy Miller (Kris), Leslie Davenport (Travis), Philip Stadulis, Meghan Kapilevich (Gary), Ben Stadulis, Justine Miller, and Sara Stadulis; three great-grandchildren, Jocelyn Miller, Jaedyn Miller, and Emma Davenport; and two sisters, Lynn Waller (John) of Danbury, CT and Braith Eldridge (Howard) of Princeton, NJ.

Private services will be held at the discretion of the family. Memorial contributions can be made to the Buchannan Valley Fire Company, 1180 Buchanan Valley Road, Orrtanna, PA 17353 or the Adams County SPCA, 11 Goldenville Road, Gettysburg, PA 17325.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the Monahan Funeral Home in Gettysburg, PA. Online condolences may be expressed to the family at www.monahanfuneralhome.com.

———

Rita M. Santora-Porter

Rita M. Santora-Porter, 78, of Winslow Twp. entered into God’s care Saturday, November 14, 2020 at home with her family by her side.

Born in Philadelphia, PA, she resided in Hammonton most of her life. Mrs. Porter was a manager with the Sands and Tropicana Casino and Hotels and retired from Design Benefits. Rita was a former member of St. Anthony’s Padua Church in Hammonton. She loved going to the casino and playing video poker

Predeceased by her parents, Vincent and Anna (Perri) Angelini; her siblings, Franny Graves and Jean Calabria; her husbands, Eugene Ashburn, Donald Santora Sr., and Ted Porter; and son Randy Ashburn. She is survived by one daughter, Teresa Santora; son and two daughters-in-law, Donald and Janine Santora Jr. and Stacy Ashburn; her grandchildren, Jennifer Speed, Emily and Sean Santora, Anthony Jones, her loving granddaughter who took amazing care of her Alison Campione and Jacob Ashburn; and three adored great-grandchildren, Michael, Giavonna Rita and Kaylee.

All services will be held privately for the family. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Parkinson’s Foundation, 200 SE 1st Street, Suite 800, Miami, FL 33131 (www.parkinson.org).

Arrangements are entrusted to the Blackwell Memorial Home, Pennington, NJ.

———

Philip Alexander Cruickshank

Philip Alexander Cruickshank, 91, of East Windsor died Friday, December 4, 2020, at the Meadow Lakes Senior Living Community. He was born in Bremerton, Washington, to Donald F. and Theodora Cruickshank. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Washington (1950) and a Doctorate from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (1954).

Dr. Cruickshank and his family settled in Princeton in 1963, where he spent most of his career as a chemist at FMC’s Princeton Research Center. He was active in his sons’ scouting troops and served on the Princeton Board of Education in the 1970s.

After retiring, Phil pursued his photography and woodworking hobbies and was a member of the Old Guard of Princeton.

Phil was predeceased by his loving wife of 61 years, Natalie Cruickshank, and his eldest son Stewart A. Cruickshank, who passed away on June 8, 2020. He is survived by two children and three grandchildren: Marsha C. Wagner and her daughter Jessica; Walter D. Cruickshank, his wife Debi Gartland, and their daughters, Delaney and Riley; and Stewart’s widow Betty Cruickshank.

Arrangements are under the direction of the Mather-Hodge Funeral Home, Princeton.

———

In Memoriam

Joann Henninger

1956-2020

From kind, courageous kindergarten classmate to confident, knowledgeable bakery customer rep.

Always remembering you on St. Patrick’s Day.

December 2, 2020

Obituaries 12/2/2020

Robert “Bob” Bergman

Robert “Bob” Bergman passed away peacefully in Boynton Beach, Florida, on November 20, 2020 after succumbing to heart failure. He had Covid-19. His beloved wife of 15 years, Beatrice “Bebe,” was by his side. 

Bob was born in New York City on September 2, 1931 to Sadie “Sue” (nee Lebeck) and Emanuel “Ed” Bergman. He attended Stevens Hoboken Academy, received a Bachelor of Science in mechanical engineering from New York University, and earned a master’s degree in mechanical engineering from The City University of New York, School of Technology, in 1962. He also received numerous certificates and awards during his long and distinguished engineering career. He began at E-Systems and continued at RCA, General Electric, Princeton University Plasma Physics Laboratory, and SAIC. He finished his illustrious career at AT&T Bell Labs, from which he retired in 1995. He enjoyed working and would often tell people that, given his work on satellites, his “fingerprints were on the moon.”  

Bob grew up in the city but loved the country. Perhaps that love sprung from his time spent in summer camp, where he made many lifelong friends. He and his first wife, Wilhelmina Wiland (nee Van Dijk), whom he met on the French Riviera during a post-college vacation, moved to Princeton, New Jersey (“the country!”), in 1965. Bob immersed himself in Princeton life, attended weekly lectures at the University, hosted yearly ski club parties and became an avid tennis player. His professorial look garnered him a job as an extra in the motion picture I.Q., the 1994 comedy about Albert Einstein that was filmed in Princeton.

In 2002, Bob looked up his old college girlfriend, whom he had never stopped thinking about. Her name was Beatrice. He found her again by sending her alma mater a request that his email address be sent to her. She emailed him shortly thereafter, and Bob learned that Bebe was widowed and living in Florida just minutes away from his twin sister, Joan. On his next trip to Florida to visit his sister, Bob and Bebe met to get reacquainted. The rest, as they say, is history. Bob moved to Florida the following year and they were married in 2005.

Bob traveled widely and had seemingly visited just about everywhere either for leisure or business travel. He recalled traveling to Cuba before the revolution and especially loved his trips to Russia, which was exotic for him after reading so many spy novels. He also loved his trip to Israel, which he visited with Bebe and some of their close friends. Later in life, he became enamored with cruises; he and Bebe were always either on a cruise or planning the next one.  

Bob was a devoted and loving father to his two sons, Jeffrey and Eric, in whom he instilled the love and wonder of science, the beauty of lifelong learning, and the importance of family. They remember his love of nature and of the day as children that he helped them plant a shoebox of saplings all over their property. Over the years, Bob tended his boys and their trees to be tall and strong. Bob effusively welcomed Jeff’s and Eric’s wives (Nicole and Andrea) into the family and treated them both like they were his own daughters. He was a loving, proud, and generous Papa to grandchildren Nina, Jensen, and Blake Bergman, Erika LaCaruba (Thomas), Zachary Bass, Benjamin Bass, and great-granddaughter Harper LaCaruba. He is also survived by his stepdaughter, Sheryl Zolotorofe.

His life was well-lived, and he left his fingerprints not just on the moon, but on the hearts of his family and friends. He will be missed.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in his honor to the 101 Fund (https://fund101.org/donate) which supports need-based scholarships for Princeton High School graduates.

———

Stowe Holding Tattersall

Stowe Holding Tattersall of Vero Beach, FL, Edgartown, MA, and Lawrenceville, NJ, died Wednesday, November 25 after a three-and-a-half-year battle with pulmonary fibrosis.

Husband of Peg and father of Edie Irvine (Ross). Also survived by his sister Martha Giancola (Paul), nephew David Giancola (Samantha), and Westie, Kiefer. Predeceased by his parents, Martha Holding and Samuel L. Tattersall, Jr., and brother Sandy.

Born and raised in Princeton, Stowe was an alumnus of Princeton Country Day School, The Hotchkiss School (Class of 1968), and Brown University (Class of 1972). Longtime board member of Trinity Counseling Service and Historic Morven. Lifetime parishioner of Trinity Church and St. Andrew’s Church, Edgartown. Member of John’s Island Club (Vero Beach), Chappaquiddick Beach Club, Edgartown Reading Room, Edgartown Yacht Club, The Bedens Brook Club, and The Nassau Club.

In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate contributions in Stowe’s memory to the Vineyard Trust (Edgartown, MA) or the animal shelter of your choice.

November 25, 2020

Obituaries 11/25/2020

Elli Walter

Elli Rambow Walter, 93, of Plainsboro, New Jersey, very sadly passed away at the Plainsboro Hospital on Friday evening, November 20.

Elli Walter was born on January 27, 1927 in Meichow, Germany, to Karl and Bertha Rambow. Her family heritage was German, French, and Eastern European. Elli attended the University of Marburg in Germany. She met her American husband Paul Walter in Germany when he was working there for the United States government. Prior to moving to Princeton in 1963, Elli worked for Johns Hopkins University and for the University of Pennsylvania.

Elli Walter lived in Princeton in the same beautiful house on Loomis Court from 1963 until 2012 when she moved to the lovely Princeton Windrows retirement community. Elli enjoyed classical music, art, reading, films, and gardening. Elli worked as a dedicated staff member in the Princeton University library system for many years (first in Firestone Library, and then from 1978 until 1996 in the Marquand Art Library where she was highly appreciated and valued).

Elli Walter’s greatest accomplishments were being an exceptionally kind, compassionate, and generous-hearted person; being a wonderful, nurturing, devoted, and supportive mother of her son Hugo, a 1981 graduate of Princeton University, who loved, cherished, admired, and adored her; having an extraordinary appreciation for beauty in everyday life and in art; and having a noble mind, a gracious heart, and a benevolent spirit which enhanced the character, decency, stature, and quality of life in any place or situation in which she was present.

Elli Walter is survived by her devoted and loving son Hugo and by the three daughters, Hannelore, Heidi, and Ute, of her deceased brother Karl and his wife Liesbet and their families in Germany and other parts of Europe, and by several relatives in South Carolina and Maryland.

Memorial donations may be made to the Marquand Art Library of Princeton University — please see the instructions about making a donation in Elli Walter’s obituary on the Mather-Hodge Funeral Home website.

A memorial service will be held for Elli Walter in the Princeton University Chapel in the future when the pandemic has subsided. The funeral arrangements are under the direction of the Mather-Hodge Funeral Home in Princeton.

Elli Walter was such a wonderful and lovely person and will be deeply and profoundly missed.

———

Thierry Verhaegen

Thierry Verhaegen, 68, passed away on November 20, 2020 in Princeton, New Jersey.

Thierry was born in The Hague, Netherlands, to Baudouin and Anne-Michelle Verhaegen on August 14th, 1952. As the child of a diplomat, Thierry lived in many countries including Chile, Turkey, Morocco, and Ireland. Thierry received a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Philosophy and a License en Droit (JD) from Louvain University in Belgium. He received his Master’s Degree (LLM) from the London School of Economics in England. After moving to the United States, he studied for and was admitted to the New York Bar.

Early in his career, he made the switch from law to business. Thierry worked at Munich Reinsurance America, formerly American Reinsurance, for almost 30 years. During his career, he rose to become a Senior Vice President and Account Manager. Thierry was a proud participant in multiple professional activities, both internationally and locally. He was a U.S. delegate to the International Labor Organization in Geneva, Switzerland. Locally, he was a Trustee Advisor for the Princeton University School of Public and International Affairs and a Board Member for the Princeton Water Treatment Plant.

In 1981, Thierry met the love of his life, Milka Petrovich Verhaegen, in an unexpected place: on a transatlantic flight. They married on May 11th, 1986 in Crestwood, New York. Thierry lived in Princeton with his wife and three children for over 30 years. He enjoyed gardening and riding his bicycle along the D&R Canal. He was an avid reader of both French and English literature as well as a listener of classical music, especially of the WWFM Classical Radio Station.

Thierry volunteered for a number of local organizations. He was quiet about his work but proud to serve the annual June Fête Fundraiser for the Princeton Medical Center. He also supported Eden Autism Services and would participate in their 5K run fundraiser. Many weeknights he would volunteer recording audio textbooks for the visually impaired. He was also involved in the Blue Mountain Festival, a local nonprofit to bring musical education to the underprivileged.

Thierry is preceded in death by his parents, Baudouin and Anne-Michelle; and sister Chantal Verhaegen.

Thierry is survived by his wife, Milka Verhaegen (Petrovich), of Princeton; son Samuel Verhaegen; daughter Nathalie Emerle (Verhaegen) and her husband Colin Emerle, daughter Anna Verhaegen; and sisters Beatrice De Patoul (Verhaegen) and Helene Buchen (Verhaegen); as well as nephews, nieces, and cousins.

A funeral service was held on Tuesday, November 24 at the St. Paul Roman Catholic Church in Princeton. The family suggests memorial contributions be sent to the Eden Autism Foundation or Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research.

———

Michael N. Jolley, MD

Michael N. Jolley, MD, of Princeton, died peacefully in the early hours of November 18, after a long and difficult battle with Alzheimer’s disease.

He was the son of Dr. Henry Arden Jolley, and Mary Maureen, nee Begley Jolley. His father, a British army surgeon from Chile, and his mother, a British army nurse from Ireland, met during World War II, and married in Nairobi, Kenya.  After the war, they returned to Chile, where Mike was born in 1947. Growing up in a medical family, he knew at an early age that he would follow in his parents’ footsteps.

The Jolley family, including Mike’s younger brother and two sisters, moved to the U.S. in 1958, and eventually settled in Oradell, New Jersey. He was graduated from Riverdell High School, and a proud graduate of the University of Notre Dame, where he majored in pre-med studies.  He was graduated with honor from New Jersey College of Medicine and Dentistry, now Rutgers School of Biomedical and Health Sciences.

While in college, he met his wife, Wendy, nee McCaughan, on a blind date, and they were married in 1973. They moved to New York, where Mike did an internship and one year of a general surgery residency at NYU Bellevue Hospital. They then moved to Pasadena, California, for Mike’s four-year orthopedic residency at the University of Southern California. Their first daughter was born in 1976. After returning to New Jersey, Mike completed a hip fellowship at The Hospital for Special Surgery. Their second daughter was born in 1979.

In 1980, the Jolleys moved to Princeton, Wendy’s hometown. Mike joined the Princeton Orthopedic Group, where he practiced until a merger with Princeton Orthopaedics in 1992.  Their third and fourth daughters were born in 1982 and 1983. He remained at Princeton Orthopaedic Associates until his retirement in 2016, after practicing for 36 years.

Mike was a consummate professional. He did everything precisely, and with purpose and skill.  He was a gifted surgeon, specializing in hip and knee replacements, and over the years, he took care of many older patients, both in the office and at various clinics. He was an “old-fashioned doctor,” in the sense that he treated his patients himself, from start to finish, and developed a lasting relationship with them and their families. He cared deeply, and always did his best for them.

Mike was generous to a fault, always glad to lend a hand, financial support, or just his presence.  He had great respect for many of the excellent doctors and nurses he worked with over the years. He was a lover of Notre Dame football, classic cars, ’60s music, a funny joke, a good cigar, and a glass of Chardonnay. He greatly enjoyed spending time on Long Beach Island with friends and family members. He was a loyal friend to all. His greatest joy was his family; he was a devoted husband, doting father of four daughters, and he adored his six grandchildren. 

He was predeceased by his parents and his brother, Henry Vernon Jolley. He is survived by his wife of 47 years, Wendy; daughters Dr. Jennifer Jolley (Dr. Marcelo Hinojosa) of Irvine, CA; Katharine Milford (David) of Lawrenceville; Caroline of Philadelphia; Lindsay Ambriz (Jesse) of Pennington; and his beloved grandchildren Eve, Alexandra, Landon, Max, Olivia, and Scarlett.  He is also survived by his sister Patricia Orlovsky (Brian) of Newport Richey, FL; and sister Moira Swallow (Eric), of Saybrook, CT. He will be greatly missed by his sisters-in-law Carey Hoover (Stuart) and Marny McCaughan, and many nieces and nephews.

A celebration of Mike’s life will be held at a future date when it is safe to gather. Burial in Princeton Cemetery will be private. Donations in his honor may be made to Corner House Behavioral Health, 1 Monument Drive, Princeton, New Jersey 08540; or the American Nurses Association.

———

Alton H. Bassett

Alton H. Bassett passed away peacefully, with family by his side, on November 16, 2020, just shy of his 90th birthday. He will be remembered as a devoted family man.

Alt was born November 27, 1930 in Hartford, Connecticut, son of Martha and Arthur Bassett. He graduated from Middlebury College in 1953, with a BS Degree in chemistry. In his junior year he met and dated his future wife, Joan Tolley. After graduation, he served two years in the Marine Corps ending at the Marine Corps Institute in Washington, DC, teaching math. In 1956, he married Joan, stopping at the Princeton Inn on the first night of the honeymoon, never realizing this would become their hometown. Alt worked briefly at American Viscose Corporation in Front Royal, VA, where his first daughter was born. He then began a job with Chicopee Manufacturing Company (Johnson & Johnson) and  moved the family to New Brunswick, NJ, where his second daughter was born. They bought a “starter” house in Princeton in 1962, which became the “home” he lived in for the rest of his life. 

Alt was a Research Director at Chicopee for 30 years, developing non-woven fabrics for surgical and medical supplies, and recorded three patents. He retired in 1988 and consulted for five more years. After retiring, he and Joan purchased an old 32’ Bristol sailboat, enjoying 25 years cruising the Toms River and Barnegat Bay waters. Every February, the two would travel to Venice, Florida, to enjoy the beach in a relaxing location. Alt developed lasting friendships that he cherished for a lifetime: in college, business (“The Old Farts”), Princeton, boating, and Florida.

Alt inspired his family with a sense of adventure and exploration. He proposed marriage to Joan, who was afraid of heights, on a waterfall cliff near Middlebury. On family vacations they went tent camping along the East Coast, and skiing in New England. Weekends were spent canoeing, hiking, or exploring New Jersey and Pennsylvania, or testing his homemade model airplanes, rockets, and sailboats. Alt amused everyone with creative activities, like mock baseball in the kitchen (the sport he played in high school), or sand games at the beach. He pursued his love for the desert southwest by climbing Angel’s Landing in Zion National Park and taking his entire family on an RV trip to Death Valley. Because of his talent with a camera, he captured all of his adventures on film.

Alt is survived by his wife Joan Bassett, his two daughters, Linda Bassett and Bobbie Erdman, sons-in-law Billy Erdman and George Morris, and two grandchildren, Jamie and Drew Erdman.

Alton’s family gives thanks to the Princeton First Aid and Rescue Squad, Penn Medical Center, and Park Place Center for their exceptional care during his final months. There will be a small family service in the Princeton Cemetery at a future date, due to Covid-19 concerns. Arrangements are under the direction of the Mather-Hodge Funeral Home, Princeton.

———

Mort Darrow

Mort Darrow passed away on Saturday, November 21st at Stonebridge Senior Community, Montgomery, New Jersey from complications stemming from a soft tissue sarcoma and Parkinson’s disease. He was 94 years old, as is his surviving spouse Maureen Darrow, who sat with him as he died painlessly in his sleep.

A longtime Princeton resident, Mort taught at the University following the completion of his PhD at Columbia. Repelled by the anti-Semitism he encountered, he leapt at the chance to help elect a democratic governor, who offered him a cabinet post once in office. Mort was 28 years old.

Throughout his life, Dr. Darrow progressed at an accelerated pace due to his extraordinary intelligence. He entered college at the age of 15. Following his political career, his rise to becoming a vice president at Prudential Insurance was meteoric. While there, he became a renowned futurist, giving extemporaneous, humorous keynote speeches and presentations at major conferences around the world. Once he retired from an executive position, Mort founded a consulting firm whose clients included cities, state governments, universities, and corporations.

Mort was born and raised in Brooklyn, the son of immigrant parents – Russian Jews from a small town in Ukraine. The family was poor and frequently moved as their small businesses failed. Education freed him, beginning at Townsend Harris, a school for gifted children. Mort served in the U.S. Army stateside during World War II, held back by vision and foot issues. With the GI bill, he was able to pursue a serious academic career, where he met the love of his life, Maureen Grace Sullivan, a teacher in training from the Bronx. Their connection transcended their disparate backgrounds and it didn’t hurt that his future wife resembled Snow White, and has retained her outer and inner beauty throughout her life.

The couple produced two children, Nancy Whiteside of Brunswick, Maine, and Marc Darrow of Aptos, California, both of whom pursued successful careers as psychotherapists. Mort is also survived by a nephew he helped raise — Robert Goldberg of Livingston, NJ, whose entire family has cared for the Darrows during their recent medical challenges — and for decades before. He is survived by two other nephews as well — Richard Goldberg and Charles Goldberg. Mort and Maureen have one grandson, Daniel Whiteside of Brunswick, Maine, who has clearly inherited Mort’s intellect.

In lieu of a memorial service, perhaps anyone who had the pleasure of knowing him can simply reflect on Mort’s kindness, generosity, humor, authenticity, integrity, and incredible knowledge base. He touched the lives of many people, often helping them in ways they couldn’t have imagined. A lot of obituaries make claims such as these. In Mort’s case, they are simply facts — ask anyone whom he inspired to become a better person as he role modeled traits we all admire.

In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Mercer Street Friends, 151 Mercer Street, Trenton, NJ 08611.

November 18, 2020

Obituaries 11/18/2020

Martha B. Hartmann

Devoted to her family, community, and to the advancement of civil and human rights in New Jersey.

Martha Bothfeld Hartmann died quickly and peacefully from old age on November 11, 2020 at Stonebridge at Montgomery. She was 97 years old.

Born in 1923, Martha had a happy childhood in Wellesley, MA. She liked to tell stories of how she played ice hockey with her siblings on the neighborhood pond and spent time with her cousins at her grandfather’s farm and by the sea in Duxbury, MA. In 1941 she entered Smith College where her grandmother had been a member of the first graduating class. Her college years were profoundly shaped by World War II. Because of labor shortages, she helped organize students to assist in the harvesting of local crops. In 1942, she joined the Vermont Volunteer Land Corps founded by famous journalist Dorothy Thompson. She spent the summer working on a small dairy farm in northern Vermont where her main job was to ride the hay rake.  This experience deeply affected her. She bonded closely with the family she lived with and remained in touch with them for many years. She took pride in her capacity for hard physical work and from that time on liked wearing a blue-jean jacket. 

“It was a wonderful summer but also one that made me realize the hidden rural poverty that existed in farming communities,” she wrote in a short memoir. She
decided she wanted to work for the Farm Security Administration and did her senior thesis on the subject. The thesis won Smith’s Government Department prize. After graduation she embarked on a graduate degree in Agricultural Economics at Iowa State University in Ames, Iowa. She left the program to marry Marine Corps Captain Thomas Hartmann when he was back on leave from serving as a dive bomber in the Pacific. 

Martha and Tom had a long and close marriage until his death in 2007. They met at a party during her senior year at high school. She was bored and wanted to go home, the story goes, and he looked bored too, so she asked him to walk her home. From that point until their wedding they saw each other for a total of 20 days. Their romance blossomed through their war-time correspondence. Both were becoming avid New Deal Democrats and wrote about their changing views. Throughout their marriage they shared a passion for politics. When Tom worked as an adviser to Bill Bradley’s first Senate campaign, Martha co-chaired the Princeton campaign office.

With the war’s end, the couple moved to Princeton, NJ, where Tom finished his undergraduate degree at the university and then took a teaching and administrative job at the Hun School. Their three daughters — Anna, Darcy, and Betsy — were born in Princeton. Tom’s career then took the family to Wilmington, Delaware and Dallas, Texas. In 1963 they moved back to Princeton. Tom left private school education for anti-poverty work in state government and subsequently became a professor at Livingston College and Rutgers University.

Like so many women of her generation, Martha helped build her husband’s career, but she established herself in her own right as a forceful advocate for racial and social justice. She described herself as a “professional volunteer.”  Martha was a founding member of the Human and Civil Rights Association of New Jersey, the Princeton Youth Center, the Princeton Youth Fund, and the Witherspoon-Jackson Development
Corporation. She was also active in the Princeton Area Council of Community Services and the YMCA’s Soupcon and Interim Homes.  She was on the board of the Princeton Nursery School and on the Princeton Committee of the NAACP Legal Defense and Educational Fund. For 16 years she proudly served on the board of the Princeton Joint Commission on Civil Rights. She assisted in the development of the video “The Princeton Plan” honoring the 50th anniversary of the integration of the Princeton elementary schools. Martha remained political until the very end, casting her ballot in the recent presidential election. She was especially thrilled to hear of Kamala Harris’ historic victory.

Martha was known for her graciousness and compassion, and she gave wise counsel to friends and family members of all ages.  At the height of the 1960s generational divide, her daughters’ teenage friends could often be found confiding to her at the kitchen table. She had a strong aesthetic sense and was an excellent seamstress and gardener. She also had a wickedly wry sense of humor. 

Martha was a much beloved grandmother. Family always came first for her. In a turbulent world, she was a bedrock of sanity and unconditional love. 

Martha is survived by her daughters, Darcy Hartmann of Monterey, CA, Betsy Hartmann of Amherst, MA, and Anna Wexler of Jamaica Plain, MA; her grandchildren Elizabeth Murtagh, Blakely Simoneau, Jamie and Thomas Hartmann-Boyce, and Jonah Wexler; five great-grandchildren; and her son-in-law James K. Boyce of Amherst. She is also survived by her siblings Laura Tracy of Kennet Square, PA, and Henry Bothfeld of Duxbury, MA.

The family would like to thank the staff of Stonebridge at Montgomery, where Martha lived for 17 years, for their kindness and care, and Andrea Didisheim for her help and companionship as Martha’s health declined. The family is especially grateful to Denise Johnson whose dedication, humor, and love brightened the last years of Martha’s life and kept her smiling, laughing, and even dancing until the end.

Because of COVID, a celebration of Martha’s life is being planned for a later date.  Memorial contributions can be made to NAACP Legal Defense and Educational Fund, https://www.naacpldf.org.

Arrangements are under the direction of The Mather-Hodge Funeral Home, Princeton.

———

Dora Celli

Dora Celli, 92, passed away peacefully at her home in Princeton, NJ, after a brief illness.

She was born in Pettoranello di Molise, Italy in 1928 and came to the United States soon after WWII. She quickly learned to speak English and became an expert Dressmaker. In 1952 she married the love of her life, Cosmo Celli, and they had 52 happy years together before his death in 2004. They raised their two children in Princeton.

Dora worked for many years at Merrick’s, a Women’s Boutique, and was renowned and appreciated for her perfect alterations. She was a great cook, a devoted Church attendee, and loved hosting family gatherings at every holiday and for all special occasions. She was famous for her home made Christmas cookies of many varieties. She will be missed by all who were lucky enough to know her and by her adoring family.

Dora leaves a daughter, Maria Iacono (partner, Billy), and a son, Roberto Celli (Laura); three grandchildren, Marco Iacono (Megan), Ariana Iacono Ferris (Jim), and Carlo Iacono (Monica, fiancée); as well as numerous nephews, nieces, and cousins.

Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:30 a.m. on Friday, November 20, 2020 at St. Paul’s Church, 216 Nassau Street, Princeton, NJ 08542. Burial will follow in Princeton Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations in Dora’s memory to St. Jude’s Hospital for Children or Doctors Without Borders.

Arrangements are under the direction of Mather-Hodge Funeral Home, Princeton.

———

Sanaa El-Bakry Abdallah

Sanaa El-Bakry Abdallah, resident of Princeton, NJ, died on Saturday, October 24, 2020 at 71 years of age, with her devoted husband and two sons by her side. Sanaa was laid to rest in her place of birth, Cairo, Egypt. Sanaa lived an exemplary life of love, dedication, and virtue. Her incredibly kind and welcoming spirit gave joy and comfort to family, friend, and stranger alike.

Sanaa was born in Cairo, Egypt in 1949, the daughter of Mohamad and Saedia El-Bakry. She was deeply devoted to her husband, Mahmoud, who credits his distinguished career to her steadfast love and counsel. Sanaa was the first woman in her family to graduate college, earning her degree in pharmacy from Cairo University in 1971 with honors, a career reflective of her intelligence, grit, and compassion.

Sanaa was a skillful and dedicated pharmacist, gaining the respect of her peers as she advanced her career in Egypt before immigrating to the U.S. with her husband in 1977. They eventually settled in Philadelphia, PA, where she worked while raising her two boys, Nader and Amir, and completed her degree from the Philadelphia School of Pharmacy & Science with honors. Sanaa passed her pharmacy exam just a few days after giving birth to her second son.

Sanaa and her family moved to Princeton, NJ, in 1989, where she was able to dedicate herself fulltime to her family, which she believed to be her true vocation. She stopped at nothing to secure the health and happiness of her two sons, daughters-in-law, and six beloved grandchildren.

Sanaa honored the traditions of her Islamic faith while living its teachings everyday through selfless acts of service and generosity. She never hesitated to give of herself for the betterment of others. She cherished nothing more than having loved ones close, under her care, showering them with comforts and delicious food celebrating her Egyptian heritage.

Sanaa had a refined taste for art, culture, and fashion. She honed her own unique style that radiated elegance, modesty, and grace.  Sanaa traveled the world but loved the comforts of home most, and wherever she traveled, she dedicated herself to making others feel at home. 

Sanaa exuded strength and decency. She balanced kindness with an unwavering will to protect those she loved and stand up for what she believed was right. Loved and respected by so many, Sanaa was a true matriarch of the Abdallah and El-Bakry family; a wise and honest custodian to her husband, sons, brothers, sisters, nieces, nephews, and friends.

Sanaa will be dearly missed. Thank you for your tireless love and care. We will cherish you always.

———

Ellis B. Anderson

Ellis B. Anderson was born (in 1926) and raised in Michigan City, Indiana, the son of Esther (nee Nicholson) and Ben (August Bernard) Anderson. Ellis served in the Infantry during World War II, first on Okinawa and then in Korea, where his unit participated in the surrender of the Japanese and the occupation of the country after the war. He returned to college and received an AB with Honors from Indiana University, where he was very active in campus affairs. He was elected to Phi Beta Kappa. He then received a JD degree from Indiana University’s Law School and served on the Board of Editors of its Law Journal. In 1990, the Law School honored him by electing him to its Academy of Alumni Fellows.

Following graduation, he practiced Law in Evansville, Indiana for nine years, becoming a partner in the firm of Butt, Bowers & Anderson, oil and gas specialists. While in Evansville, he was active in local, state and national politics, and spent three months in Washington, D.C., with the Special Senate Committee on Chronic Unemployment Problems.

Ellis then was recruited to join the Law Department of Baxter Laboratories in Illinois, a pharmaceutical specialty company. A few years later, he was recruited by another pharmaceutical company, Hoffmann-LaRoche Inc., Nutley, N.J., to become General Counsel and head of both General and Patent Law Departments. He was elected Secretary and a member of its Board of Directors and of the Board’s Executive Committee shortly thereafter. He was elected, successively, Vice President and then Senior V.P. Roche sponsored his participation in the Advanced Management Program of the Harvard Graduate School of Business. He served Roche for 24 years. During that time, he was given responsibilities in addition to law which included taxes, corporate planning and development, corporate licensing, risk management, government and public affairs,
human resources, and served as chair of Roche Board’s Fiduciary Review (Investment) Committee.

Ellis married twice. His first wife, Adrienne Scotchbrook Anderson, died in 1991. He is survived by their two daughters, Rebecca J. Smith and Katherine A. Nestor, by four grandchildren: Allison, Tyler and Harrison Fontan, and Ben Smith, and four great-grandchildren. Following the death of Adrienne, in 1993 he married Jermain J. Andrews, who predeceased him in 2019. He is survived by two step-children, Jermain J. Steiner and John F. Mueller, and four step grandchildren and three step great-grandchildren. He has lived in Evansville, Indiana, Winnetka, Illinois, Essex Fells, New Jersey, and, for over 30 years, in Princeton, New Jersey. He also had a home in Mantoloking, New Jersey for many years.

During most of his adult life, Ellis was active in civic affairs and organizations, including service on boards of schools, family service, churches, and social and cultural organizations including The Nassau Club, McCarter Theatre, and the Nassau Presbyterian Church, where he had served on its Session and as chair of its finance committee. Douglass College, his first wife’s alma mater, awarded him the Douglass Medal. He was a member of The Nassau Club, Springdale Golf Club, and the Bay Head Yacht Club. At time of death, Ellis was living in The Princeton Windrows, a retirement community, of which he was one of the founding residents and was the first resident member of its Board of Trustees, from which service he derived great satisfaction and to which he provided great benefit.

Arrangements are under the direction of Mather-Hodge Funeral Home, Princeton.

November 11, 2020

Obituaries 11/11/20

Mary Strunsky Wisnovsky

Mary Strunsky Wisnovsky, a lifelong Princetonian, died on Sunday, November 8, at age 81, of metastatic lung cancer. She is survived by her husband of 58 years, Joe Wisnovsky; her two sons, Robert and Peter Wisnovsky; their respective spouses, Laila Parsons and Alejandro Mendoza Castillo; her sisters, Martha Ilic and Jane Wiseman; her grandchildren, Simon Wisnovsky and Jasmine Parsons; her granddaughter-in-law, Caroline Cawley; and her great-grandson, Arthur Thomas Wisnovsky.

Mary was born in New York City on June 6, 1939 and was brought home to Princeton soon afterward by her parents, Robert and Louise Strunsky. Her early education was at Miss Mason’s and Miss Fine’s schools in Princeton, and she went on to attend Barnard College, where she majored in Art History. 

Mary was an exceptionally friendly, cheerful person who greatly enjoyed her busy, hard-working life, taking time off from work temporarily to raise her two boys. Among her many local jobs, she was employed at one time or another by the Princeton University geology department, McCarter Theatre, the Princeton Art Museum, the Institute for Advanced Study, the Hillier Group, the Princeton Symphony Orchestra, the Princeton Child Development Institute, the Senior Resource Center and — her all-time favorite — the Princeton Public Library.

Mary’s longest stint was at the IAS, where she was initially hired by Director Harry Woolf to help organize the Einstein Centennial Symposium, a four-day conference in March, 1979, that brought together hundreds of top scientists and other scholars — including dozens of Nobel Prize winners — to commemorate the 100th anniversary of Einstein’s birth. A few days later, she traveled to Jerusalem to oversee a related event there. 

In her 12 years at the Institute, Mary wore several hats, including Assistant to the Director, as well as Foreign Student Advisor — the latter a position mandated by the U.S State Department to deal with visa matters, etc. She later served for many years on the board of the National Association of Foreign Student Advisors, which gave her an opportunity to travel to meetings with her foreign counterparts in many exotic places, including a number of
countries in Southeast Asia. In addition, she organized and ran an annual series of conferences in Germany for visiting American scientists working abroad under the aegis of the Alexander von Humboldt Foundation.

An avid jazz fan, Mary co-founded and managed, along with Mait Jones, JazzNights, a long-running series of local house concerts, featuring top-flight jazz musicians from around the world. 

As young girls, Mary and her sister were neighbors of Einstein, and on occasion they would walk-and-talk with him, at least partway, to the Institute campus. Her most enduring memory from that time was his habit of going sock-less — a privilege she and her sister Martha envied and complained about to her mother, who firmly (and in their view, unfairly) denied it to them.

Mary was especially proud of the extraordinary academic and professional accomplishments of her offspring and their spouses. She will be remembered by her many friends as someone who was always ready to pitch in and help, particularly with fundraising for local nonprofits. She will be sorely missed by one and all.

———

Violet Franks

July 20, 1926 — November 1, 2020

Violet Franks, age 94, of Bloomington, IN, passed away peacefully on Sunday, November 1 with her beloved son at her side. Violet was born in Queens, N.Y., on  July 20, 1926 to Jewish Russian immigrants Sarah (née Chomsky) and Joseph Greenberg. Always an avid student, Violet looked to pursue a career in psychology after graduating from Queens College. She completed a master’s degree at the University of Minnesota where she met her husband of 62 years, Cyril Franks, at a Hillel dinner. A brief courtship followed by wedding in New York and the newlyweds were on their way by steamship back to London to continue their education.

Their children, Steven and Sharon, were born in London as Violet completed her PhD in psychology at the University of London. The newly minted PhDs in Psychology from the University of London, Cyril and Violet, moved the family to New Jersey, eventually settling in Princeton.

On the cusp of the women’s movement, Violet edited Women in Therapy: New Psychotherapies for a Changing Society. Violet was active in the American Psychological Association division 12. She was active in The Jewish Center. She taught as adjunct faculty at Douglas College and served as the Director of Testing for Carrier Clinic in addition to a robust private practice. In their Princeton home of over 40 years, they hosted many parties for their friends from around the world. After suffering a stroke in 2013, Violet and her husband moved to Bloomington, Indiana, to be closer to family. She loved taking advantage of the cultural offerings of her new home, such as going to the opera, theater, and IU women’s basketball games.

Violet was a profoundly compassionate soul and a model of loving kindness. Friends and colleagues agree Violet was a seminal scholar, a wise mentor, and a merry and loyal friend. She is survived by her children Steven (Karen) Franks of Bloomington, IN, and Sharrin Vernall of Auckland, New Zealand; by her five grandchildren Julia (Joshua) Needle of Henderson, NV, David Franks of Chicago, IL, Elisabeth (Brian) Anderson of Denver, CO, Emily Sage and Brendon Vernall of Auckland, New Zealand; and by one great-grandson Nathan Needle.

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the Jewish Nevada’s Human Services Relief Fund (https://jewishnevada.org/vfranks).

———

William Robert Frazier

William Robert Frazier, 93, passed away October 13, 2020 after a long struggle following a fall and traumatic brain injury. Bill was born in 1926 in Washington, D.C., the only child of the late William Carroll and Sada Brown Frazier. He was educated in the Madison, Wisconsin, public schools. As a proud veteran, he served in World War II from 1945-1947 with the 2nd Cavalry Regiment in Germany. After the war, he earned both Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Bacteriology from the University of Wisconsin, Madison.

He married the love of his life, the late Anne McElvain Frazier in 1951 in Madison, Wisconsin. They remained loving and strong partners for 53 years until Anne’s passing in 2004. After graduating from the University of Wisconsin, he and Anne moved to New Jersey to begin his career and to start a family. Bill was involved in his three children’s lives, actively supporting and encouraging their interests, activities, and pursuits. He was an avid gardener, sports enthusiast, and history buff. He spent his scientific career at E. R. Squibb & Sons, New Brunswick, NJ, in various capacities in The Squibb Institute for Medical Research, Manufacturing and Chemical Division. He held the position of Research Fellow, involved with fermentation technology, process development, start-ups, was the manufacturing liaison, and conducted research in the fields of microbial fermentation associated with antibiotics, microbial transformations, and enzymes. He had several extended overseas assignments in India, Brazil, and Italy, making lifelong friends wherever he traveled.  

On retirement in 1986, he and Anne moved from Princeton, NJ, to Keowee Key, Salem, SC, where he resided since. During retirement, he and Anne enjoyed world travels as well as activities in the community. He appreciated any chance to get out and connect with people around him. He volunteered in the Emergency department at Oconee Medical Center for over 20 years, was a member of the Nine Hole golf group, Key Bowlers groups, Seneca Coffee Club, the Salem Lion’s Club, and the Keowee History Club.

Bill was best known for his subtle and quiet wit, his generosity, encouraging and uplifting words to his family and those around him, and his openness to new friendships with anyone he met. He often took the time and effort to inspire and encourage others. He left behind a legacy of support and kindness which will carry beyond his life here on earth. He will be deeply missed by those who knew him.

In addition to his parents and wife, Bill was predeceased by his step-mother Hildegarde Shultz Frazier, and his sister-in-law and brother-in-law Jane McElvain and Carl Edwin Jenkins. He is survived by three children, William S. Frazier, of Helena, Montana, Jane Reed (Thomas) of Seneca, SC, and Barbara Ambos (Douglas), of Sherborn, Massachusetts; six grandchildren, Sarah Bekibele (Onome), William Georgitis, Mary Winters (Mark), and Samuel Georgitis, Adrienne Frazier (Dylan Smith), Scott Ambos; and four step-grandchildren, Toby Deter, Sunni Hitchcock (Clint), Jeremy Deter, and Thomas Reed. He is also survived by three great-granddaughters, Alexandria Georgitis, Sheralyn Bekibele, and Prudence Winters.

A memorial service is planned for November 22 at 3 p.m. at King’s Grove Baptist Church in Central, SC, with a reception to follow. In lieu of flowers, contributions in Bill Frazier’s honor may be made to Hospice of the Foothills or a charity of your choice. The family would treasure your memories of Bill. These may be expressed online by visiting blueridgecremationsociety.com.

———

Barbara T. Lyle

Barbara T. Lyle died peacefully Thursday, October 29, 2020 at the Penn Medicine Princeton Medical Center in Plainsboro after a valiant battle with cancer. She was born in Patterson, NJ, in 1937 to the late Martin and Mamie Touw. Barbara was preceded in death by her husband Quentin (Bud) Lyle. She is survived by her two children, Jeff Lyle (Jennifer) of Del Mar, CA, and Susan Lyle (Peter Healey) of Titusville, NJ; her cherished grandchildren, Charlotte, Jilly, Katie, and Lyle; her brother Robert Touw of East Stroudsburg, PA, and sister Debbie Grim (Allen) of Round Rock, TX; and her brother-in-law Bob Lyle (Hilary Evans) of Somers, NY.

Barbara graduated from Stroudsburg High School in Pennsylvania and the School of Nursing at The University of Pennsylvania. She met the love of her life, Bud, while in nursing school. After graduation, they married and moved to Camp Lejeune, NC, where Bud was a Dental Officer in the U.S. Navy stationed with the Marines. Following his discharge, they moved to Haverstraw, NY, while Bud completed his orthodontic specialty education at Columbia University. After his graduation, they moved to Princeton, NJ, a town they made their home for almost 60 years.  They raised their two children there and were an integral part of this community that they both loved. 

Barbara was a gourmet cook who loved entertaining and preparing special meals for her friends and family. She was the consummate host, making everyone feel as if they were a part of the family. Friends of friends and people far from home were always welcome for holidays and celebrations. Many of her children’s friends would stop by to visit her whenever they were in town.

Barbara was a passionate bridge player and an active golf member at Bedens Brook Club and later at Springdale Golf Club, where she served on the board. She also served on various committees at The Nassau Club of Princeton, where she and Bud were members, enjoying many meals and events with friends and family. Barbara had a large circle of friends who attended the Princeton Symphony and dined out together often. She was an active member of the Women’s Investment Group, where she enjoyed researching the markets and picking stocks with this fascinating group of women. She recently joined a book club where she enjoyed many lively conversations. Barbara involved herself in all of the arts and culture that Princeton has to offer; from the Morven Museum and Garden, to sporting events at the University. She loved attending performances at McCarter Theatre and playing bridge at The Present Day Club. However, Barbara’s true passion was the wonderful friendships she had with both those she had known forever, and those that were newer in her life. Barbara made time for everyone and will always be remembered as a kind and honest soul.

Barbara’s four grandchildren were a source of joy to her always. She followed their progress and reveled in their life achievements.  She enjoyed cheering them on at athletic fields and encouraging them in their art and music, as well as sharing her skills with them in the kitchen.   

Barbara loved the ocean and St. Croix was a particular place of peace and contentment for her and her whole family. Both her children and grandchildren traveled there with her and Bud many times over the years where she made all the arrangements, cooked every day, and made family time so enjoyable.

Given the current restrictions regarding social gatherings, the family has opted to plan a celebration of Barbara’s life in 2021 when conditions allow. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests contributions in Barbara’s memory to HomeFront, 1880 Princeton Avenue, Lawrenceville, NJ 08648-4518; Princeton Symphony Orchestra, P.O. Box 250, Princeton, NJ 08542; or to the charity of your choice.

Arrangements are under the direction of the Mather-Hodge Funeral Home, Princeton.

November 4, 2020

Obituaries 11/4/2020

Christopher Robert Barbrack

Christopher Robert Barbrack died peacefully in his sleep on June 2, 2020, following several years of declining health. He was 78. He is survived by his wife of 48 years, Joanne, who was the love of his life; by his sons Scott and David, who he loved deeply and of whom he was enormously proud; and their families, Scott’s wife Lyz, and their four children Justine, JC, Jazel and Aly, and David’s wife Mary, and their two children Daniel and Claire. Christopher often expressed his deep love for his two strong and loving daughters-in-law, Lyz and Mary,  for their warmth, emotional generosity, and kindness, and for his six grandchildren who brought him enormous joy, laughter, and optimism for the future with their generosity of spirit and intellectual, athletic, and artistic achievements.

Christopher was born in the Bronx, NY, on August 11, 1941, the only child of Christopher Barbrack Sr. and Margaret Ryan Barbrack. He graduated from Iona College in New Rochelle, NY, and credited his study of science and philosophy in college for his lifelong intellectual curiosity and respect for intellectual rigor. After graduating, he taught elementary school (third grade),  and there became interested in child psychology and learning theory. 

He  enrolled at Columbia University, Teachers College in NYC where he received a Master’s degree in Educational Psychology in 1968, then accepted an internship in Nashville, Tennessee, at Peabody College/Vanderbilt University, where he was a prolific researcher and author in the field of child psychology and early childhood learning and development.

In 1970, Christopher was recruited by the University of Miami School of Medicine and Jackson Memorial Hospital, to join the Medical School’s Comprehensive Health Care Program (CHCP), a federally-funded medical services program, to develop a psychology unit to provide psychological testing and treatment services for low income children in the Miami-South Dade area and to teach medical students on their pediatric rotation about early identification of psychological/developmental conditions in young children. Christopher moved to Miami from Nashville where he met Joanne his first week there. They fell in love, finding in each other a soulmate for life, and married in August 1971, with Scott (age 6) and David (age 3) in attendance, thus beginning their life journey.

Christopher and Joanne moved to Bloomington, Indiana, in August 1973 where Christopher attended Indiana University Graduate School of Psychology and received a PhD in Psychology  in 1975. While on the psychology faculty, Christopher taught graduate level courses in statistical experimental design and child learning theory, and organized annual psychological testing clinics for disadvantaged children in rural Wall, West Virginia. In his free time, Christopher fulfilled a lifelong ambition by taking flying lessons and receiving a pilot’s license for single-engine aircraft. He logged hundreds of hours flying over rural Indiana and adjoining states and developed a deep love and affection for the people, culture, and physical beauty of the Midwest.

In August 1977, after Joanne received a law degree (JD) from Indiana University Law School (Bloomington), Chris and Joanne moved back to the NYC area where Chris joined the faculty of Rutgers University Graduate School of Applied and Professional Psychology (GSAAP) in New Brunswick. They moved to Princeton in 1982 where they settled. Christopher received tenure from Rutgers in 1984, carried a full teaching load, and was a prolific author, publishing many articles in major scholarly journals as well as occasional pieces for popular magazines.

Christopher had an interest in the scientific underpinnings of psychology and the measurable effects of clinical treatment, and became increasingly skeptical about the lack of quantitative measurements of the effects of clinical psychological treatment, but was optimistic about developments  in the field of neuropsychology, because of its focus on brain structure and function and new developments in brain imaging. While at Rutgers, Christopher also worked as a clinical psychologist at Carrier Foundation, the largest private psychiatric facility in NJ at the time; and engaged in private practice in clinical psychology.

In 1986, at the age of 45, Christopher decided to embark on a career in law, and enrolled in the University of Pennsylvania School of Law. He received a doctorate of laws degree (JD) in 1989 and became a member of the New Jersey and New York bars. He opened the Barbrack Law Firm  on January 1, 1990, and, over the next 25 years, the firm represented hundreds of clients in matters of family law, medical malpractice, and immigration. Christopher had a strong affinity to the plight of the undocumented immigrant population in and around Princeton and focused increasingly on immigration clients. Chris believed strongly in the rights of the individual to be protected from unreasonable and unfair government action and, as a result, his legal practice increasingly focused on clients with immigration issues and pro bono work for prisoners mistreated during their incarceration. To Chris, his law practice and the many pro-bono clients he was able to assist, was the pinnacle of his professional life’s work.

Chris was a great animal lover and he and Joanne shared their home with many dogs, from Great Danes and Newfoundlands, to Westies and Shih Tzus, and dozens of rescue rabbits,  throughout their life together.

Of the many achievements of Chris’s life, he will be best remembered as a brilliant and charismatic man who freely shared his warmth and emotional generosity with others and for his keen insight and interest in the lives of those whose paths crossed his. He loved to hear the life stories of people who overcame personal challenges and often noted how much those who shared their stories with Chris had enriched him. Chris summed up his own personal philosophy with a tattoo he chose for himself on his 60th birthday that said, in Chinese characters, “never give up,” and he lived this philosophy to the end. Chris was deeply loved by the many people whose lives he touched and his passing leaves a deep and immeasurable void.

Contributions may be made in his name to Princeton SAVE — A Friend to Homeless Animals.

———

Mary Dimitruk

Mary Dimitruk, 97, of Princeton Junction passed away peacefully on October 28, 2020 at Granville Place in Burlington with her loving family by her side.

The daughter of the late George and Mary Kostuk, she is predeceased by her husband, Walter Dimitruk Sr., and her siblings, Anne Hopkins and Michael Kostuk. She is survived by her children Monja and Bruce Crandall, Nadja Selah, Walter Jr. and Ellen Dimitruk, and Nina and Robert Avery; her seven grandchildren; 17 great-grandchildren; and her sister, Jennie Osinski.

Private Funeral Liturgy was offered at Saint Mary’s Russian Orthodox Church, Jackson, New Jersey 08527. Burial followed at St. Vladimir’s Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Mary’s name to either St. Mary’s Russian Orthodox Church, 316 Cassville Road, P.O. Box 146, Jackson, New Jersey 08527; Wounded Warrior Project, P.O. Box 758517, Topeka, Kansas 66675; or to a charity of choice.

Arrangements are under the direct care and supervision of Robert L. Pecht, Bordentown Home for Funerals, 40 Crosswicks Street, Bordentown, NJ 08505. Please go to Mary’s Book of Memories page at www.Bordentownhomeforfunerals.com for arrangement information and direction, to upload a picture, order flowers, or offer condolences to the family.

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Wendell Keith Whitney

November 27, 1927 — October 23, 2020

Keith Whitney of rural Saline County, Kansas, went to join Annie, his beloved wife of 70 years, in the Kingdom of Heaven on Friday, October 23, 2020. Keith was preceded in death by his parents, Lloyd and Ina, of Miltonvale, Kansas.

Keith is survived by his daughter, Judy Alink; his son, Kenneth (Pam) Whitney; his chosen children Joel and Jeri Wimer; four grandchildren, Brian (Danica) Alink, Emily (Craig) Alink Batchelor, Cody (Morgan) Whitney, and Chris (Minuet) Whitney; and three chosen grandchildren, Matthew (Abby) Wimer, Michael (Ryley) Wimer, and Melissa (Michael) Wimer Haverfield. He was the loving great-grandfather to 14.

Dr. W. Keith Whitney was a PhD Research Entomologist. Keith taught all through his Bachelor, Masters, and PhD tenure at K-State. He then went on to do Research and Grain Insect Treatment for Dow Chemical, Cyanamid, and Pfizer in numerous foreign countries, mostly concentrated in Africa.

Keith passed on from this life and all its physical difficulties surrounded by loved ones at home. He will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him.

Online condolences: www.ryanmortuary.com.

———

Helaine Randerson

Helaine Randerson (nee Kleinman) passed away quietly at her home in Princeton, NJ, on October 24, 2020 at the age of 81. She was born in Cleveland, OH in 1939 to the late Lillian Goldfarb Kleinman and Dr. Samuel Kleinman.

Helaine, known as Grandma Lanie to her beloved grandchildren Mose and Maceo Wolfe, shared a life full of love, art, theater, and travel with her cherished husband Lewis E. Randerson, a perfect match if there ever was one. Helaine charted her own path in life. After practicing law briefly in Los Angeles, CA, she moved with Lew to Princeton, NJ, where she worked for many years as the Assistant Editor for the journal Behavioral and Brain Sciences.

She decided to take a leap of faith and start her own business in editing and page production called Fastidious Word Processing, and she never looked back. Many an author’s writing benefited from her inquisitive mind, eye for detail, and sage advice. She shared these with her family and friends, too, but the greatest gifts were her unstinting love, encouragement, generosity, and compassion.

She is missed and loved by them all, but most deeply by her husband Lew, her son Justin Wolfe and daughter-in-law Edie Wolfe, her grandchildren Mose and Maceo, her sister Sandra Kleinman, her brothers Dr. Alan and Theodore Kleinman (Han), her niece Lisa Kleinman (Derek), and nephews Josh (Sabrina) and Chris Kleinman (Elizabeth). She was preceded in death by her parents, her brother Richard Kleinman, and her ex-husband Michael Wolfe.

A feminist to her core, with a sharp intellect and a crack wit, she was a lifelong supporter of women’s rights and reproductive freedom. In lieu of flowers, we ask you to consider honoring her life and memory with a donation to Planned Parenthood.

———

Albert Medwin

Albert Medwin, age 94, of Skillman and formerly of Princeton, passed away Monday, October 26, 2020. An accomplished electric engineer, he holds several US patents, including in the field of electronic encoders. He was involved in the early development of integrated circuits while working at RCA in Somerville, New Jersey. In the 1960s he led the engineering group that developed the world’s first low power CMOS chips.

Born in New York City, he was a graduate of City College of New York. He was an Army veteran of World War II, serving in the European Theatre. After returning home, he married Marilyn Herbst Medwin in 1947.

In 1957 he moved to Whippany, N.J. There he and Marilyn raised their sons. Soon after moving to Whippany, he built a small sailboat. Every summer Marilyn and Alby took the sailboat, and the family, to Lake George, N.Y., to camp on the islands. 

Attached to the house was a greenhouse that he built. Throughout the year, it was a warm place to enjoy the sun and many, many orchids. In the summer, the upper row of windows opened to help cool off the greenhouse.

At one point, Medwin got his private pilot’s license and even bought a small airplane which he flew out of Morristown Airport.

Medwin’s first patent (US 3,390,314) was issued in 1968 when he was 43. It is entitled “Semiconductor Translating Circuit” and was assigned to Radio Corporation of America (RCA). His second patent (US 3,588,635) was issued in 1971 and is simply titled “Integrated Circuit.” It was also assigned to the RCA Corporation. At this point, Medwin left RCA to start his own integrated circuit development company called Ragen Semiconductor. He received his next patent (US 3,789,388) in 1972, titled “Apparatus for Providing a Pulsed Liquid Crystal Display.” This was the first of his patents that was assigned to Ragen Semiconductor.

Several years later, Medwin started another company call CGS Systems, Inc. in Princeton, New Jersey. His next patent (US 4,110,701) was issued in 1978 and is titled “Method and Apparatus for Near-Synchronization of a Pair of Oscillators, and Measuring Thereby.” His final two patents are related to electronic encoders, “Electronic Measuring Apparatus” (US 4,367,438) issued in 1983 and “Electronic Vernier” (US 4,459,702) issued in 1984. Neither of these was assigned to a company.

Mr. Medwin was a member of The Jewish Center of Princeton. He and Marilyn were active with Recording for the Blind for many years. They were also members of the Princeton Macintosh User Group (PMUG).

He is survived by his wife, Marilyn Medwin; two sons, Steven (Rabbi Michele) Medwin and Lawrence (Ellie Hertzberg) Medwin; a sister, Mildred Linnetz; four grandchildren, Dan Medwin, Allison Steele, Rachel Witriol, and Sam Medwin; and five great-grandchildren, Zimra, Gavi, Teddy, Jasmine, and Julian. He is predeceased by his brother Julius Medwin.

Private funeral services and burial with military honors were held Wednesday, October 28 at 2:30 pm at Princeton Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Springpoint Foundation (online at https://springpointsl.org/foundation/donate or by mail to Springpoint Foundation, 4814 Outlook Drive, Suite 201, Wall Twp., NJ  07753).

To send condolences to the family visit orlandsmemorialchapel.com.

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Frederick Spring Osborne Jr.

Frederick Spring Osborne Jr., 80, of Princeton, NJ, and Philadelphia, PA, died on October 28th at home in Chester, CT.  

Fred began his career as the Director of Undergraduate Sculpture at the University of Pennsylvania and Assistant Professor in the Graduate School of Fine Arts at Penn, progressed to a faculty member in the Graduate Program of Arts Education and Director of Continuing Education at Philadelphia College of Art, co-founded the Vermont Studio Center, was Dean of the Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts, and finally President Emeritus of the Lyme Academy College of Fine Arts. Fred had great influence on all with his gentleness, wisdom, and patience.

Fred is survived by his wife Judith Barbour Osborne; daughters Sophie Simpson of Philadelphia and Jessica Mungekar of Sewell, NJ; sister Lydia Osborne of Pennington, NJ; and respective families. He was predeceased by his son Thomas Spring Osborne who left behind wife Natasha of Philadelphia and two now-grown children. 

Sympathies: tributes.com.

October 28, 2020

Obituaries 10/28/20

Maureen Theresa Lima

Maureen Theresa Lima, formerly known as Maureen Curtin, born August 31, 1940, died October 25, 2020 peacefully with her family by her side. 

Maureen epitomized the great American success story. The second daughter of Irish immigrants, Maureen grew up in the Bronx, NY, with her loving four sisters, Margaret (deceased), Eileen, Ann, and Theresa and her deceased brother Dennis. She met her soul mate at 15 attending a Catholic school dance. Maureen and Vincent Lima were married on June 12, 1960. Maureen always knew what she wanted. When she met Vinny, she knew they would create a beautiful home for their children. Maureen and Vinny had four children and 11 grandchildren: Mary Ley (Bill Ley) and daughter Isabella; Joanne Cella (Chris Cella) and children Justine, Christopher, and Clare; Vincent Lima (Beth Lima) and children Rachel, Vincent, Natalie, and Alexandra; Jennifer McLaughlin (Mark Dowden), and children Patrick, Molly, and Anna.

Growing up in the Bronx, Maureen dreamed of her elegant home filled with children, antiques, art, and a kitchen table for family dinners every evening and an abundance of love. She accomplished that and so much more. Maureen became an avid tennis player, a spectacular bridge player, and a wonderful mom. Her love affair with Vinny was without equal and an inspiration to her children. Later in life bridge became her passion. She studied the game and fell in love with its beauty. She played bridge because she loved it. While talented enough to make life master, she didn’t care about the title. She only cared about the love of the game and the camaraderie and friendships it brought.

Maureen was a student in the best sense of the word. She studied and developed deep knowledge for no other reason than the love of it. She introduced her children to great literature, art, and film. If there was one phrase to describe Maureen, it would be simple elegance.  She carried herself with great confidence, she was a keen listener and always lent a sympathetic ear.

Maureen will be missed by her husband Vinny, her four children, her cherished 11 grandchildren, all of her friends from bridge, and so many others touched by her kindness and grace.

Maureen lived the American dream. It wasn’t effortless, but she made it appear so. Her grit and vision and unwavering belief and desire to build a beautiful life for her family all came true.  She will be sorely missed, remembered always, and cherished forever.

A mass will be held at St. James Church in Pennington, NJ, on Friday, October 30th.  Family will be receiving visitors from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. followed by a memorial mass. In lieu of flowers, a donation can be made to the Bronchiectasis and NTM Initiative (www.bronchiectasisandntminitiative.com). Arrangements are by the Wilson-Apple Funeral Home, Pennington. Condolences are welcome at www.wilsonapple.com.

———

Catherine F. Lloyd
1919-2020

Catherine Fanget Lloyd passed peacefully on Thursday, October 22, 2020, from natural causes. She recently celebrated her 101st birthday.

A longtime resident of Catonsville, Maryland, she was born and raised in Princeton, New Jersey, and graduated from Wellesley College in 1941.

She was a long-term parishioner of St. Mark in Catonsville where she taught school for eight years and served on the parish council. She was a devoted teacher, both at St. Mark and Catonsville High School, with a lifelong impact on many of her students. She was passionate about travel and playing bridge with friends and family.

She is survived by her three children, Edward Lloyd of South Orange, NJ (Janine Bauer), Pamela Lloyd Coulter of New York, NY (John V. Coulter), and Robert Lloyd of Catonsville, Maryland. She is also survived by three grandchildren, Alex Lloyd, Kimberly Coulter, and Abigail Lloyd, all of New York, NY.   

Catherine was predeceased by her beloved husband, Edward Lloyd; her sisters Connie Driver, Rita Price, and Lillian Fanget; and her brother, Louis A. Fanget.

She was interred at St. Paul Cemetery in Princeton, New Jersey, on Tuesday, October 27, 2020. A memorial service will be scheduled at some future date.

In lieu of flowers, her family requests donations be considered in Catherine’s honor to St. Mark School, 26 Melvin Avenue, Catonsville, Maryland 21228.

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Marian Lucille Miles McCredie

Marian Lucille Miles McCredie died on October 23 at the Princeton Medical Center. She was 81.

She was born Marian Lucille Miles on February 20th, 1939 in New York, New York, to George and Lucy Eleanor (Briggs) Miles. She graduated from the Masters School in Dobbs Ferry, New York, in 1956, having spent a year abroad at La Chatelaine in St. Blaise, Switzerland. She received a Bachelor of Arts in the History of Art from Smith College in 1960.

Marian, known from an early age to her friends and family as Mimsy, succinctly framed her aspirations in her high school yearbook this way: “To really live life.” And so she did. She was presented to society at the Westchester Cotillion in 1956. By then she was already a veteran traveler and had proved herself an accomplished canoeist, swimmer, horseback rider, skier, and mountain climber. She was a lifelong traveler and lover of adventure. She visited places as far flung as India, Norway, Kenya, and the Galapagos and she had crisscrossed North America from the Baja peninsula to the northern woods of Maine. From 1960 to 2019, she spent part of each year on the remote Greek island of Samothrace. In fact, she liked to say that she had been on her way around the world when she stopped in Athens, Greece, and married the archaeologist, James R. McCredie on September 3rd, 1960.

Mimsy and James went on to share a 58-year marriage until his death in 2018. She was an essential partner during his extraordinary career in academia and classical archaeology, putting her legendary organizational skills and social graces to work for the benefit of all. As wife of the Director of the American School of Classical Studies at Athens, she was known for careful planning of parties and events and tactful follow-through that advanced many a student’s career. On a more human level, she simply made sure that everyone felt included. Her ability to connect people came through in every part of her life and across the world. She is remembered fondly as a loyal correspondent, a rememberer of birthdays, and an expert networker long before that became a thing.

Mimsy is survived by and will be forever missed by her son, Miles McCredie, her daughter Meredeth McCredie Winter, son-in-law Mark Winter, grandchildren William and Eleanor Winter and by the many, many friends and acquaintances whose lives she touched.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Marquand Park Foundation in Princeton, on whose board she served for many years, or to the Loon Preservation Committee in memory of her long love of a particular loon-graced lake.

———

Helen Gentile

November 15, 1921 – October 20, 2020

Helen Theresa Gentile, 98, passed away peacefully while sleeping at her home at The Avalon in Hillsborough, New Jersey, on the morning of October 20, 2020, a few weeks before her 99th birthday. She had been a longtime resident, with her husband Emile Gentile, of Garden City, New York for 44 years before moving to New Jersey.

Helen was born on November 15, 1921 in Brooklyn, New York, the middle child and only daughter of Alexander and Rose Picozzi (née Adamo) and adoring sister of Matthew Picozzi and Vincent Picozzi, who predeceased her. Helen grew up in Williamsburg, Brooklyn, and Richmond Hill, Queens, spending happy summers with her close-knit extended Italian-American family at her family’s bungalow in Highland, New York, near New Paltz, a tradition she later continued with her own children. An excellent student, Helen graduated from Richmond Hill High School at 15 and then attended Queens College, along with her older brother Matthew, where she majored in French and Spanish language and literature and was on the diving team and in the badminton and fencing clubs. She was proud to be a member of Queens College’s first graduating class in 1941, receiving a Bachelor of Arts degree with departmental honors. She took post-graduate courses in foreign language education at Middlebury College and Cornell University and later earned a Masters of Arts degree in Education from City College of New York in 1945. 

Following college, Helen embarked on a long and rewarding career as a New York City public school teacher, beginning as a high school French teacher during World War II, where her students were so close in age that more than one of them asked her for a date. She later changed to teaching elementary school, working for many years as a sixth grade and Spanish teacher at P.S. 41 in Bayside, Queens. She was a strict but encouraging teacher, imparting her love of learning and gift for language to her many students over the years, until retiring in 1986. 

In 1952, Helen met her future husband, Emile Gentile, on a ski slope in the Poconos when she dropped her skis and he offered to carry one for her. They were engaged four months later, married on December 21, 1952, and continued a lifelong love and partnership for more than 60 years until Emile’s death in 2013. 

Helen was a devoted, loving mother of four children. She demanded high standards but never ceasing to do as much as she could for her family. With remarkable energy through most of her life, she managed to teach school, grade papers, plan lessons, and graduation exercises, shop, cook three-course Sunday pasta dinners, be a Cub Scout den mother, clean house and dishes, sew hems, dresses, doll clothes and Halloween costumes, schedule dance and piano lessons, sports activities and doctor visits, host family holidays and birthday parties, attend weekly mass, bake chocolate cakes, zeppoles, honey cakes and cream puffs, and try her hand at crocheting, upholstering furniture, sculpture and painting. In retirement, Helen volunteered at a local Long Island hospital and with the League of Women Voters, played bridge and golf, and enjoyed movie nights, local theater, and traveling with Emile, taking Elderhostel (now Road Scholars) vacations for many years. Helen and Emile especially enjoyed spending the winter months in the Florida sun at their second home at PGA National in Palm Beach Gardens, where they made many new friends and visited with old friends and family. 

Although slowed in her last years, Helen continued to find joy in the beauty of nature and in her children and grandchildren, delighting most recently in her great-grandson.  She will be greatly missed by her family and caregivers for her indomitable spirit, humor, and caring concern. Helen is survived by her son, Vincent E. Gentile of Princeton, New Jersey, and his wife Patricia Pickrel, her daughter, Patricia E. Coutu of Warwick, Rhode Island, daughter Laurie J. Gentile, and son-in-law Scott Friedland, of Chappaqua, New York, and daughter Jill T. Gentile, of Highland Park, New Jersey; her grandchildren Andrew V. Gentile and wife KC Arbour, Daniel Gentile, Katherine Coutu Holland and husband Chris Holland, Nicholas Coutu, Julia Friedland, Alexander Friedland and Michael Friedland; and her great-grandson, Henry Gentile. Her son-in-law, Roland J. Coutu, predeceased her.

Her family extends their heartfelt thanks to the staff of Avalon @ Hillsborough, NJ, for the high quality and loving care they provided to their mother, Helen, for the past seven years. A short memorial service for the family was held at The Mather-Hodge Funeral Home, Princeton, New Jersey. Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated on Saturday, October 24, 2020 at St. Paul’s Roman Catholic Church, Princeton. In lieu of flowers, the family has suggested that donations may be made in Helen’s name to Queens College, www.qc.cuny.edu, or Alzheimer’s Foundation of America, www.alzfdn.org.

October 21, 2020

Obituaries 10/21/20

Marvin R. Reed

Marvin R. Reed, Jr. died peacefully on October 12, 2020 after a lengthy battle with Parkinson’s disease. He was 89 years old. A resident of the greater Princeton area for over 60 years, he moved to Stonebridge at Montgomery in Skillman, New Jersey, five years ago. Marvin served as mayor of Princeton Borough from 1990 to 2003.

Born July 30, 1931 to Marie and Marvin R. Reed Sr. in Vineland, New Jersey, Marvin lived his early years in South Jersey. He graduated from Vineland High School in 1948 and attended Rutgers University on a state scholarship. He graduated Phi Beta Kappa in 1952.

Shortly after college, Marvin was drafted into the U.S. Army at the time of the Korean War. After his initial training, he was sent to the Redstone Arsenal in Huntsville, Alabama, where he was selected to work on the guided missile system program. His service and experience in the South and at the Arsenal would forever shape his lifelong commitment to public service and civil rights.

After his discharge in 1954, he began a 31-year career with the New Jersey Education Association (NJEA) in Trenton as the assistant editor of the NJEA magazine. His professional career evolved quickly, and he soon became Director of Communications for the NJEA. He also took on leadership roles in New Jersey school and college development efforts and taxation and municipal reform issues until his retirement in 1986.

In 1957, Marvin discovered Princeton while residing with several friends on Jefferson Road. His life changed forever in 1958 when he met Ingrid Wagner, also from Vineland, who was working in New York City while he was in the NYU Graduate Communication program. They were married a year later in Vineland and settled in Princeton. They soon became active members of the Unitarian-Universalist Church of Princeton.

Early in 1961, the Reeds purchased their first home in one of Morris Milgram’s planned communities called Glen Acres in West Windsor — a small cluster of suburban homes designed specifically to foster the integration of Black and white families. Marvin and Ingrid would go on to have two children, David and Liza. The family felt lucky to spend their childhood growing up in this special place and continue to maintain connections with their many Glenview Drive neighbors.

In 1974, the Reeds moved to Princeton Borough where their family could walk and bike to town and school. In 1984 then Mayor of Princeton Borough, Barbara Sigmund, asked Marvin to run for a seat on the Borough Council which he won. Following Sigmund’s death in 1990 Marvin became Mayor, a post he would hold for 13 years. He will be remembered for his contributions to dozens of public projects, local, regional, and State, as well as his management of the relationship between the Princeton community and Princeton University. His legacy lives on in many ways. Marvin led the effort to redevelop the Princeton Public Library, the Albert Hinds Plaza, adjacent retail spaces, and Spring Street parking garage.  In addition to town administration and policy development responsibilities, he enjoyed presiding over weddings and was proud to have married over 500 couples during his tenure! While Mayor, he served on the League of Municipalities Executive Committee and chaired its Cable Television Study. He was also appointed to the State’s Local Unit Alignment, Reorganization and Consolidation Commission (LUARCC) and served as President of Downtown New Jersey.

Following his years as Mayor, Marvin served as Chair of the Redevelopment Task Force of New Jersey Future, on the Princeton Planning Board, and took an integral role in the relocation of Princeton Hospital and the redevelopment of the hospital’s former location.

In 2018, Marvin and Ingrid were awarded the Leslie ‘Bud’ Vivian Award for Community Service by the Princeton Area Community Foundation honoring their combined lifetime of service to dozens of local, regional, and State level projects, committees, and organizations.

Throughout their adult lives Marvin and Ingrid maintained a strong interest in the arts and travel. They were enthusiastic supporters of the Princeton Symphony Orchestra, Princeton Opera Festival, and Arts Council. As followers of theatre, opera, and film, they often made these activities the focal point of their travel adventures around the world including memorable visits to Colmar, France, the American West, and regular visits to the island of St. John in the US Virgin Islands. In lieu of a traditional vacation home, they acquired a small apartment on the Upper West Side of Manhattan in partnership with good friends. This proved to be a magnet for family gatherings as well as providing a home base for their energetic interest in everything New York City.

Further details of Marvin’s life and contributions to the Princeton community can be found in the Princeton Personality profile from the November 7, 2007 issue of Town Topics and the August 2011 issue of Princeton Magazine with a story about his life and partnership with Ingrid.

Marvin is survived by Ingrid, his wife of 60 years, a son David Reed and his wife Nan of Orinda, California, and a daughter Liza O’Reilly and her husband Tom of Hingham, Massachusetts, as well as granddaughters Cecilia, Jacquelyn, and Agnes O’Reilly, and grandson Owen Reed.

To celebrate Marvin’s life, consider: a walk around downtown Princeton, a ride on the FreeB Marvin I or Marvin II, a visit to the Princeton Public Library, a stop at Hinds Plaza, or a donation to Princeton Community Housing (pchhomes.org) to honor Marvin’s commitment to affordable housing and helping people live a better life.

———

Irwin Litt, M.D.

Irwin Litt, M.D., of Princeton, New Jersey, passed away in August of 2020 at the age of 83. Irv was born, raised, and educated in Philadelphia, attending South Philadelphia High School for Boys, and completing his undergraduate and medical training at Temple University. He interned in Brooklyn, New York, and was subsequently commissioned as a Captain in the United States Air Force, serving as a General Medical Officer. 

He returned to Temple University to complete his residency in radiology and a fellowship in interventional radiology, and soon after joined what is now the University Radiology Group in New Jersey. Irv practiced with this group for his entire career, specializing in mammography and dedicating himself to women’s health for decades. He mentored medical students and residents and worked tirelessly on behalf of his patients. He loved his profession.

Irv lived a full life with his wife of 57 years, Barbara. His three children and their spouses as well as eight grandchildren brought him much joy. He loved them all. In his free time, he was a music enthusiast with a passion for jazz, blues, classical music, and opera. He loved theater and visiting New York City, as well as travel, always with his trusty camera by his side. Irv was an avid reader of newspapers, magazines, medical journals, and books. For years he audited classes at Princeton University and later attended classes at the Senior Resource Center, and he enjoyed spending time with his friends in the Old Guard and 55 Plus social groups. 

Private funeral services were held due to COVID. Charitable contributions in Irv’s memory may be sent to The Jewish Center in Princeton (thejewishcenter.org) or Greenwood House (greenwoodhouse.org).

To send condolences to the family, visit orlandsmemorialchapel.com.

———

Brigadier General Guy Keller Dean III

On October 11th 2020, loving husband, father of two, and grandfather of three, Brigadier General (Ret.) Guy Keller Dean III died at the age of 80. Guy was born in Princeton, NJ, in October of 1939 to Guy K. Dean, Jr. and Marion F. Dean. 

He spent his childhood in Plainsboro, NJ, and attended Princeton Country Day School through 1955. Guy then studied at Woodberry Forest School in Virginia, graduating in 1958. Guy went on to Rutgers University, where he rowed varsity crew, sang in the Glee Club, acted in the Queens Theater Guild, and enjoyed fraternity brotherhood at Delta Sigma Phi, graduating in 1962 with a Bachelor of Arts degree. 

After college, Guy enlisted in the U.S. Army, serving on active duty as a Special Agent with the Intelligence Corps at NATO Headquarters and in Paris, France. Guy transferred to the U.S. Army Reserves in 1966 while pursuing a career in banking over the next 30 years. Guy was commissioned as an Officer in the U.S. Army Reserves in March of 1968. Later, he graduated from the National Graduate Trust School at Northwestern University in 1974 and earned a Master of Arts in Business degree from Rider College in 1981.

Guy worked at various banks in New Jersey, becoming Vice President and Senior Trust Officer at PNC Bank at Palmer Square in Princeton, NJ. In 1993 Guy’s service with the Army Reserves ended and he transitioned to the New York State Guard where he reached the rank of Colonel. In 1995 Guy began a new civilian career as well, becoming a Certified Financial Planner and Certified Life Underwriter with MetLife Securities, where he worked for the following 25 years. In 2004 Guy Joined the Veteran Corps of Artillery State of New York, the state’s oldest military command, where he rose to the rank of Brigadier General in 2017 at the time of his retirement. Guy’s military decorations include the Legion of Merit, the Defense Meritorious Service Medal, the Meritorious Service Medal, the New York Conspicuous Service Medal, the New York Meritorious Service Medal, and numerous others. 

Throughout his 55 consecutive years of service in the armed forces and two careers in business, Guy volunteered on several boards, including the Princeton YMCA and Mercer Medical Center, was a founding member and treasurer of the Buck Hill Conservation Foundation, was President of the New Jersey Association of Financial and Insurance Advisors, and enjoyed membership in the Princeton Rotary Club and the Nassau Club of Princeton. Additionally he was active in many genealogical and patriotic organizations, serving as New Jersey chapter Vice President of the Society of the Cincinnati, President of the Military Society of the War of 1812, and he held leadership positions with many other organizations such as the Society of Colonial Wars, the Sons of the Revolution, the Baronial Order of the Magna Carta, and more.

Guy was a lover of history, classical and jazz music, Tiger and Scarlet Knight football, dog walks throughout the Princeton and Rocky Hill nature ways, and being active with Trinity Church Princeton.  He was especially fond of peaceful summers in Buck Hill Falls, PA.

Guy is survived by his wife of 50 years, Victoria; his daughter Wistar, son-in-law Andrew and granddaughter Elizabeth Wallace of Norwalk, CT; his son Andrew, daughter-in-law Ashleigh, grandson Aston and granddaughter Amelia Dean of Jacksonville, FL; his sister Marion and brother-in-law Peter Hall of Gloucester, VA; and his brother John Dean of Canyon Lake, TX. 

A private service with burial was held for immediate family on 17 October at Trinity Church, Princeton.  A larger memorial service will be planned for a later date. Donations in Guy’s name would be appreciated to the Buck Hill Conservation Foundation (buckhillconservation.org); Trinity Church, Princeton (trinityprinceton.org); or the Society of the Cincinnati (societyofthecincinnati.org).

———

Daniel B. Rew

Daniel B. Rew, 60, died peacefully at home with his family in Bay Head, NJ, on October 12, 2020. He spent the last year with family and friends, painting, baking, and walking in between treatments for colon cancer.

Dan was born on September 6, 1960 in Berkeley, CA, to Ella May Green Rew and David Robertson Rew. Ella and David met in California after growing up as children of missionaries in Kenya and the Belgian Congo respectively, a unique perspective on life that Dan found invaluable. They raised Dan and his siblings Ritch and Sherry around the world, moving between California, Paris, Texas, and Connecticut. In 1982 Dan graduated with a Bachelors in Environmental Science at Texas A&M and set off for New York City to attend the Institute for Architecture and Urban Studies.

He met the love of his life over a drafting table at the University of Virginia where he then graduated with a Master of Architecture in 1987. Dan and Pam were married at the Bay Head Yacht Club on September 26, 1987.

Dan believed in books. He treated himself, family, and friends to books at every opportunity. He believed in lines and never forgetting his sketchbook. He loved towers and careful details. He could hold whole buildings in his mind, turning them over to make them better, more responsible, more comfortable. And always simpler. He believed in starting a project by reading a book and starting the day with a long breakfast. He believed in running a quick six miles to let himself think. He believed in not trying to be perfect.

He composed his complex buildings with trace paper and careful models. Over his career, he received countless AIA design awards, leading several carbon-neutral and sustainable research facilities, laboratories, and an emerging technology and innovation center. He was proud to become a partner at CUH2A and eventually a Design Director and Vice President of Sustainability at HDR Architecture. His projects were located across the world and included infectious disease research, a library and a residence for students at the Cape Eleuthera Institute, and a tiny playhouse for his three daughters.

Dan spent his time running dozens of marathons, playing weeknight basketball at the neighborhood park, and watching his girls in countless sailing regattas. He rarely missed a Texas A&M football game, loved racing his brothers-in-law to the top of Stratton Mountain, and made his mother’s lace cookies every Christmas.

Dan and Pam raised their three daughters in Princeton to be confident and curious about the world. He adored them with passion and pride, his only regret was leaving them too soon. He is survived by his wife of 33 years, Pamela Lucas Rew of Bay Head, NJ, and their three daughters: Margaret Rew of Washington, DC, her husband Owen Weinstein; Jane Rew Buckley of New York City, her husband Mike Buckley; and Julia Rew of New York City. To add to those riches Pam and Dan spent the last ten months doting over their first grandchild, Kailie Ella Buckley. He will be greatly missed by his brother, Ritch Rew, and sister, Sherry Nunez, their families; and his many beloved in-laws, out-laws, running buddies, colleagues, and friends. We are indebted to Memorial Sloan Kettering’s many years of research that informed the thoughtful care and chemo regimens that kept Dan comfortable over the past year.

Father Dowd, a family friend who married Pam and Dan, will be holding a private family service this week. The Rew girls will travel this spring to spread his ashes in the places he loved the most. Once it is safe for a larger gathering, Dan asked that we host a celebration of his life with his community of friends and colleagues. If you would like to attend this event, please contact the family at remembering.dan.rew@gmail.com.

We have established a memorial fund at the University of Virginia School of Architecture in Dan’s name. You can make a contribution at givenext100.com, or by mailing a check to: School of Architecture Foundation, Campbell Hall P.O. Box 400122, Charlottesville, VA 22904. Indicate in special instructions “For Dan Rew Memorial Fund.” Our hope is that these funds will support students as they too create a library which will enrich their study and passion for architecture.

Thank you to our family — loud and loyal fans of Dan. Thank you to the many, many people who have reached out with stories and condolences.

October 14, 2020

Obituaries 10/14/2020

Dr. Stephanie K. Chorney

Dr. Stephanie K. Chorney died peacefully in Princeton, NJ, on September 29, 2020, at age 50. She is the daughter of Don Chorney and the late Doris Chorney. Stephanie leaves her legacy to her husband Orlando, son Julian, father, sister Alison Yowell, as well as extended family, friends, and colleagues.

Stephanie was a graduate of Rutgers University and Temple Medical School. She was a licensed pediatrician, with her last position being at Penn Medicine Princeton Health Hospital, where she worked on the pediatric floor.

Stephanie was a strong advocate for the arts, health, education, equality, sustainability, and Jewish community efforts. From being the co-chair of the Princeton Environmental Commission to encouraging the Princeton Public Schools to concentrate on healthy meals, to placing separate trash and recycle containers dispersed throughout the town, she made her mark. To honor her for significantly contributing to the community, Princeton Township declared May 26, 2020 Dr. Stephanie Chorney Day. She was a wonderful wife, mother, daughter, sister, aunt, and friend to everyone. Stephanie led by example that coordination, collaboration, and communication help us unite together. Her resilience inspired others as she fearlessly stood up for what she believed in and gave tireless effort to aid many. Stephanie was a beautiful person inside and out with a heart of gold and will be missed by all. We love you, Stephanie, and you will always be remembered and never forgotten.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made towards https://www.stephaniechorney.org/how-to-donate-instructions.

———

Alvin Gordon

Alvin Gordon, most recently residing with his wife Felice Gordon at Windrows senior community, died at home at the age of 91 on September 28. He and Felice previously resided at 48 Woods Way in Princeton for 48 years and moved to Windrows in 2018. Prior to 1970, they lived in East Brunswick. Their younger children, Joel and Neil, both attended Princeton High School. Mark, their oldest child (deceased in 2018), attended East Brunswick High School.

Alvin was born on April 11, 1929 to Bernard and Mary Gordon in New York City. His sister Ginger, who lives in Teaneck with her husband Jim, was his only sibling. He attended Stuyvesant High School in Manhattan. He subsequently attended Queens College, and then transferred to the City College of New York. He earned his degree in civil engineering, graduating from CCNY with honors.

Alvin and Felice married in 1952. They lived in Queens for two years and then moved to East Brunswick, where he met his future business partner Sanford Nacht. Together, they founded Alsan Masons, a masonry and concrete firm, which experienced a decade of growth and success during the 1960s. Alvin and Sandy transitioned Alsan into commercial real estate development during the 1970s.

He took a break from business in 1979, and then served a two-year term as the president of the Princeton Jewish Center. In 1982, he created Gordon Construction, which was focused on building renovation projects in New York City. The company was successful, and as it grew, Alvin invited his previous partner Sandy to join him. Felice joined Gordon Construction as the director of marketing in the late 1980s. The company continued to operate until the mid 1990s, when Alvin and Felice decided to retire.

Alvin and Felice enjoyed traveling abroad and in the United States. They also loved folk dancing and playing on their tennis court that they had built at their Princeton residence, where Alvin also played with his friends. Alvin and Felice enjoyed listening to classical music and Broadway show tunes. They attended performances at the Metropolitan Opera in New York, the New York City Ballet, and other venues including McCarter Theatre in Princeton. At the age of 44, Alvin successfully undertook the challenge of climbing with a group expedition to the summit of Grand Teton mountain in Wyoming. He and Felice also enjoyed participating in a book club in their later years.

Alvin is survived by his wife Felice and by his sons Joel and Neil. In addition, he is also survived by his daughters-in-law Patricia Gordon and Anna Pegler Gordon, as well as his grandchildren Bernard, Rebecca, Dora, Eli, and Talia Gordon, Maya and Naomi Pegler-Gordon, and four great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his sister Ginger and her husband Jim, as well as Ginger’s three sons Jeremy, David, and Benjamin.

Memorial contributions may be sent to the Jewish Center of Princeton.

———

Frances Young Goeke

Frances Young Goeke, 78, of Lawrenceville, passed away peacefully on Thursday, October 8th. 

She was born on May 17, 1942 in Trenton, NJ; daughter of the late Frank and Mildred Young. She is survived by her loving husband of 59 years, Noel; a brother and his wife, George and Connie Young of Ewing Twp., NJ; sister-in-law, Wilma Goeke of Virginia; two nieces, Lorraine Ellerth and her husband Dan, Georgette Jung and her husband Tom; one nephew, Alan Goeke and his wife Lynn; and her great-nieces and nephews, Andrew, Jocelyn, Jackson, Jimmy, Shelby, Maxwell, and Daniella.

Frances attended Sacred Heart School and graduated from Cathedral High School in 1960. She started work for the State of NJ in 1960 and retired as a Principle Administrative Assistant to the Attorney General in 1999 after 39 years of service.    

Frances married her handsome childhood sweetheart, Noel, on September 23, 1961. They spent 59 loving years as the very best of friends. They enjoyed cruises, traveling around the U.S. and Caribbean, and her favorite vacation spot Hilton Head, SC. When they weren’t traveling, they enjoyed going to Flyers hockey games, the local theatre, dining out, and relaxing by their pool.

One of her true passions was Genealogy. She was active in the Central Jersey Genealogy Society. She published their newsletter, and took several research trips all over the U.S. and one to England with her husband and parents. Over several years she worked on her own, and assisted others in their family ancestry. 

“Aunt Fran” to many, she will be remembered for her devotion to her family and friends. Whether it be a Girl Scout patch, a school play, a religious event, a soccer or basketball game, she was always the first in line to help and support the people she loved. She had a special bond with her niece Daniella, whom she babysat from birth; she never missed a basketball game and always wore her team colors.

Funeral services have been completed under the coordination of Blackwell Memorial Home, 21 N. Main Street, Pennington, NJ. www.blackwellmh.com.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Dementia Society of America, PO Box 600, Doylestown, PA 18901. www.dementiasociety.org.

October 7, 2020

Obituaries 10/7/2020

Roy “Murf” Higgins

It is with broken hearts that our family announces the passing of Roy “Murf” Higgins. Murf died peacefully on October 1, 2020. He was 87.

Born at home on June 11, 1933 to the late Leroy and Florence Higgins, Murf has been a lifelong resident of Belle Mead. When he was six years old, his family moved to Overbrook Oaks on Mountain View Road, where he proudly remained for the last 81 years.

Murf attended Somerville High School where he met the love of his life, Carol Amerman. After high school, he attended Lehigh University graduating in 1956 with a BS in Business. He and Carol married in 1959 and spent 61 years happily building their family and being active in their community.  

Murf was the President and owner of the Belle Mead Garage his entire life. Having won Chrysler’s highest recognition for customer service for 30+ years, Murf was truly recognized as one of Lee Iacocca’s “Good Guys.”

Known for his love of Belle Mead, Murf was active in the community. He served as Deacon and Elder at the Harlingen Reformed Church; he was a member of Belle Mead Rotary; he was on the Advisory Board of the First National Bank of Central NJ; he served as treasurer during his tenure on the Harlingen Cemetery Association; was a member of the board of directors for the Belle Mead Co-op; and he was a former member of Montgomery Volunteer Fire Department #1.

In his spare time, Murf loved caring for his sheep and cows on the farm, sitting on the deck looking out at Lake Champlain with Carol at their camp in Vermont, and taking his kids and grandkids out to dinner, always insisting on paying the bill.

He is predeceased by his sister Barbara McLachlan who passed away in 1998. Surviving Murf is his devoted and loving wife, Carol; sons Jon (and wife Tracy), Christopher (and wife Becky), daughters Amy, and Bonnie (and husband Tom Sullivan); six grandchildren, Christopher, Michael, Joseph, Jessica, Ryan, and Benjamin; one great-grandchild, Nicholas; and nephew Morgan McLachlan III and niece Leigh McLachlan.

Graveside services were on Monday, October 5, 2020 at the Harlingen Reformed Church Cemetery, Route 206 in Montgomery. 

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made “in memory of Roy Higgins” to the New Jersey Farm Bureau, 168 West State Street, Trenton, NJ 08608 or to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, directed to the COVID Relief Fund, 1480 US Highway 9 North, Suite 301, Woodbridge, NJ 07095.

To send condolences to the family, please visit brucecvanarsdalefuneralhome.com.

———

Leon Joseph Christen

On September 16, 2020, Leon Joseph Christen, loving husband and father of three, passed away at the age of 93.

Leon was born in Princeton, New Jersey to Joseph and Marie Louise Christen. He enlisted in the Navy in April, 1945 and served in the Naval Amphibious Forces in the South Pacific. Upon return from the military, he matriculated at Princeton University where he graduated cum laude in 1949 with a B.S. in engineering and went on to receive his M.B.A. from Columbia University in 1952. He married Rosemarie Simone in 1953. After starting his career in New York City, they moved to Canada where Leon worked for an international insurance brokerage firm.

In 1960, they returned to Princeton and Leon took over the family business, Lahiere’s Restaurant. Lahiere’s was a Princeton institution and family run for 91 years. Among its many accolades was the prestigious Wine Spectator Grand Award. Leon built the restaurant into an iconic gathering place for generations of Princeton families, students, faculty members, and the occasional celebrity. He delighted in sharing his love of food and wine not only with his family, but with everyone he met.

Upon retirement, Leon and Rosemarie moved full time to their beloved home in Mantoloking. There, Leon enjoyed boating, fishing, model ship building and, of course, great food and wine. He will always be remembered as a loving husband, father, and grandfather with a great sense of humor and a silly joke to tell. He is survived by Rosemarie, his wife of 67 years, his children, Caroline Boucher and husband Peter of Edwards, Colorado, Michele Antoniewicz and husband Ron of Jupiter, Florida, and Joseph Christen and wife Jill of Princeton, New Jersey, and four grandchildren.

A memorial service will take place at a future date. Memorial contributions may be made to Wall Township First Aid and Rescue Squad, PO Box 1105, Wall Township, NJ 07719. Arrangements are under the direction of Mather-Hodge Funeral Home, Princeton.

———

Anita M. Tocco

Anita M. Tocco (Nina) 61, of Columbus, NJ, passed away on Monday, April 20, 2020 after losing her five month battle with cancer, surrounded by her two loving friends Barbara and Kim.

Born in Princeton, Nina attended Stuart Country Day School and graduated from Princeton High School. Early in Nina’s life it was apparent that Nina had a great talent for music. She could play multiple instruments, but it was the piano that took Nina to another level. Growing up Nina pursued her passion, winning many awards and accolades from her competitions. At first, she pursued music at Trenton State College but after the tragic loss of her beloved father, Nina lost that passion to perform and put aside that part of her life.

She became a rural carrier for the U.S. Postal Service of Princeton and Wrightstown where she also became involved as a state steward in the Union which took her around the country for various meetings and other duties. She also was part of a pilot program designed for training and promoting the Postal Service for which she received awards in excellence prior to her retirement with 35 years of service.

Besides music, Nina was a lover of sports and played basketball, soccer and softball in school and leisure, always with a competitive edge. In her later years she liked gardening, dining out with friends and traveling. This was usually to warm climates with beaches. Nina had a generous nature that extended itself to her love of cats. As a crazy cat lady she had up to six cats at a time periodically, leaving behind three of her beloved felines. And known only to a few she had a beautiful singing voice.

She is predeceased by her parents Santo and Anne (Fiumenero) Tocco and survived by three brothers Ronald (Karen), Santo, and John Tocco and also two nephews, Michael and Jonathan, plus decades of friends.

She has been cremated and a memorial service will take place on Thursday October 8, 2020 from 7-9 p.m. at Mather Hodge Funeral Home, 40 Vandeventer Avenue, Princeton, NJ 08540. Due to Covid restrictions it will be by invitation only; those interested call Kim at (609) 335-4251. Interment will be in Princeton Cemetery, 29 Greenview Avenue, Princeton, NJ 08540 on October 9, 2020 at 10 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to local shelters, animal rescues, or the ASPCA.

———

Martha Hinman Vaughn

Martha H. Vaughn, 85, died peacefully Monday morning, September 28th, at her home, surrounded by family.

Photographer, world traveler, volunteer, singer, and sportswoman — Martha had many passions and avocations. She was a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother. Those who knew Martha were always happy to be in her orbit — and she in theirs.

Born and raised in Binghamton, NY, to Barbara and George Hinman, a longtime political advisor to Nelson Rockefeller, Martha graduated from Dana Hall School in Wellesley, MA, and Wheaton College in Norton, MA. 

She met the love of her life in her early 20s while working in New York City for Mutual of New York and Readers Digest, catching a ride with him to the slopes of Vermont. In 1958 she married George “Arky” Vaughn III, an engineer from Staten Island, NY, working with Alcoa Inc. The newlyweds moved in 1959 to the Philadelphia Main Line, where she was a member of the Junior League of Philadelphia and stayed busy as a young mother.

Martha and Arky moved to Princeton in 1965 where they raised their three daughters, Barbara, Susan, and Phoebe. Martha immersed herself in the community, volunteering with many local and regional organizations including McCarter Theatre, The Friends of the Princeton University Art Museum, Arts Council of Princeton, Princeton Symphony Orchestra, Princeton Hospital, NJ Neuropsychiatric Institute, Planned Parenthood, and others. She served for many years on the boards of Princeton Symphony Orchestra, The Friends of the Princeton University Art Museum, and McCarter Theatre.

Indefatigable, Martha had a zest for life and seized every opportunity to spend time with her family and large circle of friends. She was a creative and prolific hostess. Wanderlust was in her veins: Martha planned and took trips to exotic destinations across Europe, Africa, Asia, and the Pacific, as well as Bermuda, where the Vaughn’s bought a house in 1978. Bermuda became a beloved second home for them.

Travel sparked Martha’s creativity, and, in her mid-life, she embarked on a career as a fine art photographer, which gave her much joy and fulfillment. She had a keen eye for color, light, and abstraction and found inspiration on her many trips overseas. Her work was exhibited in many venues including the NJ State Museum, the National Arts Club (NYC), the Bermuda National Gallery, and the Masterworks Foundation (Bermuda). She published a book of her photographs, Of Time and Place, in 2013.

Martha, along with Arky, also found great joy in singing, which was part of her life from early on. Martha was founder of the Witherspooners, a singing group that performed in Princeton in the late 1960s and early 1970s that performed in regional a cappella gatherings up and down the East Coast.

Other pursuits and passions included sports (tennis, golf, skiing), politics (member of the Off the Record Lecture Series of The Foreign Policy Association, NY), gardening, and membership at a variety of clubs in Princeton, Bermuda, and New York City.

Martha is survived by her husband, George, and three daughters, Barbara Vaughn Hoimes of San Francisco and New York City, Susan Vaughn (O’Brien) of Los Angeles, and Phoebe Outerbridge of Pennington, NJ, and their husbands; six grandchildren: Alexander Hoimes, Bailey and Whitney Outerbridge, and Owen, Lucie, and Finn O’Brien; a sister, Virginia Hinman Cummings along with her husband Dr. Harland Cummings, and brother, Harvey Hinman along with his wife Peggy Hinman; and many nieces and nephews. She is predeceased by her sister Constance Getz.

A private family service took place at her home; a virtual remembrance for friends and family will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers the family requests that any gifts in Martha’s honor be made to HomeFront and Planned Parenthood of Central and Greater Northern NJ.

September 30, 2020

Obituaries 9/30/2020

Kevin T. Delaney

Kevin T. Delaney, 76, died on Saturday, September 26, 2020 with his loving family at his side. Affectionately known as Sir and Darts he was born in Princeton, NJ, living there for over 50 years before moving to Lawrence Township in 1997.

A 1963 graduate of Princeton High School he was employed in the Tin Shop at Princeton University, having just celebrated 45 years of service. He was a 52-year member and past President of Princeton Engine Company #1 volunteer fire department and a member of the fire police, and the Knights of Columbus #7000.

Son of the late John F. Delaney and Ann P. Smith, son-in-law of the late Thomas J. Procaccino, brother-in-law of the late Francis S (Booper) Davison Jr., he is survived by his wife of 30 years, Maria Procaccino Delaney; their daughter Bridget C.; his mother-in-law Mary Agnes Procaccino; sisters-in-law Ann P. Davison and Claire F. Allen (Ronald); his nieces and nephews Sara, Ryan, and Scott Davison, Melissa Wiltsey (Craig), Emily Allen (Jason Kok), and Kyle Allen; great-nephew Oliver Wiltsey; and many friends, cousins, and wonderful neighbors. He was a wonderful cat Dad to Lightning, Tuna, and Queenie.

The family would like to thank Princeton Hospice, especially Liz, Heather, and Marie.

Mass of the Christian Burial will be 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday, September 30, 2020 at St Paul’s Church, 216 Nassau Street, Princeton and all are invited to attend.

A memorial will be held at a later date when we can give him a proper send off.

In lieu of flowers, the family respectfully requests that memorial contributions may be made to Christine’s Hope for Kids or Princeton Hospice.

———

Robert Fomalont M.D.

Robert Fomalont M.D., of Cranbury, New Jersey, passed away peacefully at his home surrounded by his family on September 27, 2020 due to complications from Parkinson’s disease. He was 85.

Born in Philadelphia to Celia and Jack Fomalont, Bob (often referred to as Rob) grew up in West Philadelphia and graduated with friendships that lasted a lifetime from West Philadelphia High School in 1952. He completed undergraduate studies at Temple University in 1956. After receiving his medical degree from Hahnemann Medical College in 1960, he was commissioned in the United States Navy where he served in the Medical Corps as a Lieutenant.  

Following his service, Dr. Fomalont was a founding physician of Princeton-Nassau Pediatrics in Princeton, NJ. He remained with this growing medical practice his entire career, caring first for thousands of children and then for their children a generation later. He was loved by his patients and their parents — sharing a smile, or a joke, and often wearing a brightly colored tie that told the kids he was there for them. Dr. Fomalont became a pioneer in the emerging specialties of Attention Deficit Disorder and learning disabilities and helped countless children address these previously unmet medical needs. In 2004 he retired to a new home in Cranbury, NJ.

Dr. Fomalont lived a full life filled with love together with his wife and high school sweetheart, Bobbi (nee Narish), until she predeceased him in 2016. They traveled to Africa, went on cruises, and thought Paris was the most romantic city in the world. You could often find them enjoying a fine meal and a Broadway show, opera, or ballet in NYC, or dining in and around Princeton before attending a performance at the McCarter Theatre. Being an avid reader, his home was filled with stacks of newspapers, magazines, medical journals, and books of all genres. Dr. Fomalont was also involved with CWW and The Old Guard of Princeton, NJ, for many years. For decades after retiring, Dr. Fomalont was often approached in public venues by former patients, friends, and acquaintances who were thrilled to see him and to remember and thank him for how he had cared for them.

Dr. Fomalont thrived being surrounded by family. After marrying Bobbi in 1975, their blended family included eight children; Michael Fomalont, Joel Fomalont, Susan (Tom) Fomalont Sloan, Bud (Sindey) Dranoff, Sue Sabogal, Dede (Peter) Horowicz, Lisa (Michael) Connors, and Judi (Harvey) Malove. Along with their spouses and 14 grandchildren and four great-grandchildren, Dr. Fomalont’s “immediate” family included 35 people.

He will be greatly missed. Due to Covid-19 considerations, services are private. Charitable donations in the memory of Dr. Fomalont are requested to be sent to McCarter Theatre Center (mccarter.org/donate).

To send condolences to the family, visit orlandsmemorialchapel.com.

———

Elaine L. Gulick

Elaine L. Gulick, 95, of Skillman passed away peacefully at home on September 26, 2020. She was born in Plainfield, NJ, and was the daughter of Berta Randolph Millar Loizeaux and Senator Charles Edward Loizeaux. She attended the Hartridge School and graduated from The National Cathedral School in Washington, D.C., then attended the Barmore School in New York City.

In 1948 she married Alfred William Green, who joined the law firm of Carlson Wilhelm and Cook in New York City. A few years later he opened his own law firm in NYC. Mr. Green was a graduate of Princeton University and The Harvard Law School. During WWII he was captain of a motor torpedo boat and later served in the OSS. They lived in the Plainfield area for 20 years and had two children, Cynthia and Harold. Mr. Green died at the age of 49 in 1971.

In 1976 Elaine married Jack Gulick from Princeton, moved there in 1978, building a house on Nelson Ridge Road where they lived for 35 years.

Elaine was a member of the Plainfield Junior League and The Plainfield Country Club. She and Jack were members of The Mantoloking Yacht Club, Hilton Head Golf Club, Bedens Brook Club, and The Nassau Club. Elaine was also a member of The Present Day Club and The Jamestown Society. Her direct ancestor was John Rolfe and Pocahontas, who were the first settlers in Jamestown, VA, in 1608. 

Elaine loved to entertain. She did it well and her many friends enjoyed her efforts. Her other passion was travel. She and Mr. Green extensively toured the Far East as well as India, Iran, Nepal, Indonesia, Hong Kong, Turkey and Africa. With Jack she often traveled to Europe as well as Norway, Sweden, Russia, and England. In the later years they enjoyed traveling by ship — twice around South America, South Pacific Islands, Australia, New Zealand, Panama Canal, and the Mediterranean. She visited more than 145 countries.

For many years Elaine played and loved tennis before transitioning to golf, so she and Jack could enjoy the sport together. They played many courses in Ireland and Hawaii but loved the Bedens Brook course. 

She is survived by her daughter, Cynthia, and her husband, John Wappel of Flemington, and her son, Harold Chamberlain Green of Monkton, MD. She had four grandchildren: Whitney Trif and her husband Greg living in Mendham, NJ; Jonathan R. Wappel and his wife, Edyta, from Delaware Township; William Green and Charlotte Green from Reistertown, MD. She also has two great grandchildren, Scarlett and Wesley.

Due to Covid-19 restrictions, the Memorial Service at the Trinity Church, Princeton, will be private.

Arrangements are under the direction of the Mather-Hodge Funeral Home, Princeton.

———

Sophia Hugel Zaininger

Sophia Hugel Zaininger took her last breath on September 24, 2020. Born in 1929 in Galicia, Poland, before the outbreak of WWII, Sophia lived her earliest years in a patriotic Ukrainian family.

In 1944, as the Soviet army approached her hometown L’viv for the second time, Sophia’s widowed mother took her young daughter and two younger sons and fled. Fate would lead them to southern Germany, where Sophia continued her studies in the schools organized by the displaced Ukrainian diaspora. Being more interested in socializing than in mathematics, she was introduced by a friend to a handsome young Bavarian, who would finish her diagrams of conical sections, allowing her to complete her Abitur. One thing led to another and a year after Sophia and her family had immigrated to NYC, Karl joined her there.

Their partnership lasted another 69 years, until Karl’s passing in 2018. Together, as they built Karl’s career as a research scientist and professor, raised a family, built houses, collected art, supported Ukrainian causes, and traveled the world, their home was always filled with friends from around the globe. Sophia’s ability to make any visitor feel welcome was next to none. Her bountiful dinner tables were populated with visitors from all walks of life, including scientists, professors, business leaders, international exchange students, and even the neediest of immigrants, always bustling with conversation and storytelling. Sophia’s exquisite entertaining and culinary skills left guests spiritually and physically nourished.

Sadly, Sophia struggled in the final decade of her life, especially following the painful and far too early demise of her youngest son from brain cancer. Though diminished during these years by dementia and back pain, which slowly eroded her true essence and joie de vivre, there were moments, even toward the end, when her zest for life bubbled up to produce a smile on her face and a twinkle in her eye, evoking former times.

Beyond all else, Sophia was devoted to her husband, children, and grandchildren, whom she loved with fervor. Predeceased by her son Mark and husband Karl, Sophia is survived by daughter Lydia; son Alexander with wife Amely and children Paula, Augustin, and Louisa; and Mark’s wife Leslie with children Charlotte and Luke.

A memorial service will be held when gathering and travel are again permitted. The family welcomes any donations in honor of Sophia and Karl and asks that they be directed to the Ukrainian Museum or Ukrainian Institute in NYC.

September 23, 2020

Obituaries 9/23/2020

Julian Tao Knipper

It is with great sorrow that we announce the August 31, 2020 death of our beloved Julian. Julian Tao Knipper died of a tragic accident on his family farm in Crampagna, France. He was born on April 29, 2017 to parents Jonathan Knipper and Eugénie Baudon. His family, on the farm and in the States, was large and loving. Living next door to his grandparents Papé and Mamie, he would excuse himself from the dinner table and run next door for the chance of enjoying a second dinner and to sit and read comic books with Papé at their table.

Julian was smart. From walks around the farm with his Papé he learned the names of all the plants and grasses – with a keen eye for his favorite, edible champignons. With his Mamie he would eat all the strawberries, raspberries, raw green peppers, and edible flowers. He peered into the stars and the universe with his mom on his bedroom balcony wrapped in a blanket at night. He loved helping his dad on the farm, riding together in his tractor and feeding the cows. He was very proud that he could speak both English and French with his parents and would take joy in testing his teachers at the Creche (Nursery School) on how well they knew English!

Julian also had a love for music and knew Bach, Vivaldi, and Beethoven, whom he preferred to Tchaikovsky, but also listened, on repeat, “Despacito” and most recently “Paw Patrol.” He was curious about everything, open, and loved meeting new people. He showed us that if we didn’t impose adult limitations on a child’s speech, it was possible for him to give us insight into life’s most complicated questions.

Even separated by the Atlantic and with no travel possible due to COVID, he loved his father’s parents and would look forward to their video calls, enjoying puppet shows, reading books, and sharing laughter and love. For indeed, Julian was loving, kind, and gentle to everyone in his life — but especially to his younger sister, Bloom, who just turned one. One of his first English phrases he used regularly with his family was “I love you so much, forever time.”

Julian leaves behind his parents and sister; his maternal grandparents, Doris Leuenberger and Sylvain Baudon of Crampagna, France; his paternal grandparents, James and Teresa Knipper of Washington Crossing, PA, and Barbara Beaumont and George Newton of Somerset, NJ; and many aunts, uncles, and cousins. A private family funeral service celebrating his life, his light, and his love was held in France.

The family has established the Julian Knipper Memorial Fund at the University of Virginia Children’s Hospital, which will go to supporting their Child Life Services for their pediatric patients with cancer and/or bone marrow transplantation and thus ease the pain and suffering of many children for years to come. To make a donation to his fund please go to: http://get-involved.uvahealth.com/goto/Julian.

For more information about Julian’s life and/or to leave a message for the family please visit: https://www.forevermissed.com/julian-tao-knipper/about.

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Richard A. Ragsdale

Richard A. Ragsdale (Dick), 77, of Skillman died Thursday, September 10, 2020 at Penn Medicine Princeton Medical Center of Plainsboro. Born in Vancouver, Washington, he grew up in Medford, Oregon, and resided most of his life in Skillman.

Dick received his undergraduate degree from Stanford University where he was captain of the football team and was selected to play in the East-West Shrine Bowl. He subsequently attended Hong Kong University for a year on a Rotary International scholarship. Dick received his J.D. from Stanford Law School, during which time he also played rugby (he was later inducted into the Stanford Athletic Hall of Fame for rugby). He then served in the U.S. Army for three years before beginning his legal career.

Dick was a partner at the law firm of Davidson, Sochor, Ragsdale and Cohen, LLC, located in Skillman and Elmwood Park. His practice focused on commercial litigation, real estate, commercial transactions, and First Amendment law. He was named one of the top First Amendment lawyers in New Jersey in The Best Lawyers in America. Dick was also a member and past president of the Montgomery-Rocky Hill Rotary Club.

Son of the late Lee Verdell Ragsdale and Elizabeth (Crow) Ragsdale, he is survived by his wife of 50 years Cathi (Artandi) Ragsdale; two sons and two daughters-in-law — David and Jennifer Ragsdale of Wilmington, MA, and Daniel and Amy Ragsdale of Brooklyn, NY; a sister, Dana Kramer of Medford, OR; and four grandchildren — Eleanor, Vivian, Catherine, and Charlie Ragsdale.

Funeral Arrangements are private under the direction of the Mather-Hodge Funeral Home.

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Rodney Allen Fisk

Rodney A. Fisk, 79 of Princeton, NJ, and New York City passed away on September 9, 2020 at Calvary Hospital in the Bronx after battling brain cancer.

He was born in Birmingham, Michigan. He graduated as valedictorian from Detroit Country Day School. Rodney attended the University of Vermont where he was ranked third in his class before transferring as a junior to the University of Michigan. He majored in transportation economics at University of Michigan, graduating with deans list honors and a commission in the Army Ordnance Corps. Rodney entered into active duty in the Army achieving rank of captain. He served three years in Germany commanding the Third Armored Division (Spearhead). He learned German well enough to serve as battalion interpreter. Shortly after being released from active duty he taught middle school in the inner city of Detroit. After his job as a teacher he was quickly promoted to an assistant divisional manager of the country’s fifth largest department store J. L. Hudson Company.

Rodney entered into Harvard Business School where he received his MBA in 1969. After Harvard, he went on to join Trans World Airlines in New York full time. At TWA he moved up over the years to head the Internal Consulting Group and Management Appraisal and Arbitration. Rodney used to take day trips to surrounding areas outside of New York City. On one of those trips he discovered Princeton and became enamored of this small university town in New Jersey. He relocated to the Witherspoon-Jackson Neighborhood where he and his partner Karl renovated two houses, one of which was a Sears Roebuck Kit Home. After over ten years at TWA, he went on to tend to his investment properties in Princeton.

Rodney went on to work for National Interurban Consortium from 1980-1999. He headed a group of companies (Siemens Transportation, GE Signal, RJ Corman Railroad Construction) to operate some 50 miles of commuter-rail service in the greater Philadelphia area. Rodney then went on to work for Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage from 1999-2004. He was number one in buyer-controlled sales by his second year with the company. Rodney was also a U.S. Census Bureau Field Representative in 2008 and Enumerator (assistant coordinator) in 2010.

Rodney was a Princeton Borough Councilman from 1987-1989 who had worked with airlines and other transportation ventures. He advocated for privatizing the “Dinky” (the short line railroad between Princeton and Princeton Junction for service to New York City). His efforts gained extensive media coverage both locally and nationally.

He was a member of many originations including Mensa, Rotary, American Ordinance Association, Harvard Club, and Metropolitan Association of Railroad Superintendents. Rodney was also a member of the Tri-State Weimaraner Rescue of NJ, DE, and PA. Rodney and Karl have had Weimaraners for over 30 years, getting their first puppy in 1976 and many more rescued Weimaraners have followed.   

Rodney is predeceased by his parents Fredrick Besancon Fisk and Margaret Barthel Fisk. He is survived by his loving partner of 45 years, Karl Lessig, three nieces, and his beloved dog Sara who is now in the loving care of his partner.

Arrangements are under the direction of the Mather-Hodge Funeral Home.

September 16, 2020

Obituaries 9/16/2020

Robert Harold Atkinson

Robert Harold Atkinson, age 89, passed from this life into Heaven on Friday, September 11, 2020, at home surrounded by his family. He is now with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

He is survived by his loving family, his wife of 69 years, Verna (Raymond) Atkinson; two daughters, Denise Atkinson and Dezra Richmond and son-in-law Curt Richmond; granddaughter Tae Richmond-Moll and grandson-in-law Jeff Richmond-Moll; great-grandson Beck Richmond-Moll and great-granddaughter Willa Richmond-Moll; a sister Donna Hieshima; two brothers, Richard Atkinson (Bonnie) and Charlie Atkinson (Sharon) and sister-in-law Carolyn Tice; and many nieces and nephews.

Born in Mt. Holly, NJ, on July 14, 1931, and raised in Vincentown, he served in the United States Army in Korea, where he found his faith in Jesus. He worked in construction for more than half a century and pursued higher education in related fields at Rutgers (New Brunswick) and Rider College. His career – including as Project Manager for Marriott Corporation and the New York State Thruway – allowed him to travel throughout the United States, from Maine to Hawaii, and many endeavors in between.

Bob and Verna built their house in Lumberton together and lived there for 55 years until they moved to Princeton in 2012. Throughout their marriage they enjoyed serving in their local church as long-standing members of Shawnee Baptist and most recently Stone Hill Church of Princeton.

His spirit of generosity made him quick to help and support others. Bob was a gentle, humble man, a true “Barnabas,” a son of encouragement and comfort. He greeted everyone he met with the most genuine smile and would almost daily say, “Thank you Lord for everything.”

Always the adventurer, he rode motorcycles most of his life, only parting with his Gold Wing bike when he was 80 years old. He picked up downhill skiing in his forties and learned to fly a plane in his seventies.

He was loved dearly by his family and friends and will be missed tremendously.

His favorite Bible verse was John 3:16, “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.”

A service honoring his life will take place at Stone Hill Church of Princeton, after the lifting of COVID restrictions. There will be a private ceremony at Princeton Cemetery on Friday, September 18, 2020.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to America’s Keswick (https://americaskeswick.org/support/) and/or  Princeton Medical Center Hospice Care (https://www.princetonhcs.org/care-services/princeton-homecare/what-we-do/hospice-program).

Arrangements are under the direction of Mather-Hodge Funeral Home, Princeton.

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John Suydam Kuhlthau

John S. Kuhlthau, a retired Judge of the Superior Court of New Jersey, passed away on September 4, 2020.

Born in New Brunswick, May 16, 1937 he spent his early life in Milltown in the New Brunswick area. He attended Rutgers Preparatory School, graduated from Princeton University in 1958, and from Rutgers University Law School in 1962. He married Carol Collier Kuhlthau and they raised three daughters joyfully together in North Brunswick. After retirement he and Carol moved to Princeton, NJ, in 1999 and made that community their home. He was a wonderful husband and father with a generous heart and spirit. He was quick with a warm smile and beloved by the many lives that he touched in each community where he lived and served.

John earned his J.D. at Rutgers University Law School and served as Public Defender and as Middlesex County Prosecutor prior to his appointment in 1976 to the bench as a Judge of the Superior Court of New Jersey sitting in Middlesex County. He retired from the bench in 1997 after many years of public service.

He was a lifelong member of the United Methodist Church, trained at Drew Theological Seminary, and demonstrated his faith in his actions throughout his life. In his retirement he devoted his efforts to numerous charitable causes. He supported community programs at Turning Point United Methodist Church in Trenton. He established scholarships for minority students at the Pennington School. He was a founding member of the Board of the Petey Greene Prisoner Assistance Program at Princeton University. He founded the John Suydam Kuhlthau Bioethics Conference at the New Brunswick Theological Seminary which has convened annually since 1997 to explore ethical and spiritual issues in medicine especially for end of life.

He is survived by Carol, his wife of 62 years, his daughter Eleanor Molloy and her husband Christopher, and their children Emma, Jack, and Owen; his daughter Ann Caspari and her children Elizabeth and Charles; and his daughter Leslie Maniotes and her husband Bill and their daughter Lily; and his brother Kearney Kuhlthau and sister-in-law Carolyn Kuhlthau. A private funeral was held at The Elmwood Cemetery in North Brunswick. Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Quackenboss Funeral Home, New Brunswick. A memorial service will be held in the future.

Memorial donations may be made to the John Suydam Kuhlthau Bioethics Conference at the New Brunswick Theological Seminary, Princeton United Methodist Church, or Petey Greene Prisoner Assistance Program at Princeton University.

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Luise Ella Heiba

Luise Ella Heiba, 92, passed away peacefully on Monday September 7, 2020.

She was born and raised in Leipzig, Germany. Prior to coming to the United States, she achieved her Abitur from Leipzig’s Fachshule fur Wirtschaft und Verwaltung.   She moved to Princeton in 1963, where along with her husband, El-Ahmadi Heiba, she raised her family.

Luise is survived by her three sons, Adel Heiba (Irvine, CA), Karem Heiba (Bridgewater, NJ), and Tarek Heiba (Yardley, PA), their wives, eight grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren.

Funeral services and interment will be private.

Extend condolences and share memories at TheKimbleFuneralHome.com.

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John Lowell Johnson

John Lowell Johnson died peacefully on September 6, 2020. John was born on March 18, 1926 in Butte, Montana. He graduated from Butte High School in 1943, received a BS in Engineering Physics at Montana State College (now Montana State University) in 1949, an MS in Physics in 1950 and a PhD in Physics in 1954 from Yale University.

His college education was interrupted for two years when he served in the United States Navy, becoming an ETM1/c and serving on the Destroyer Minesweeper USS Carmick, DMS 33, as it swept mines in the South China Sea. While in school, John was elected to membership in several honorary societies, the National Honor Society, Phi Eta Sigma, Order of Collegiate Knights, Tau Beta Pi, and Sigma Xi, which he served as Secretary-Treasurer, Vice President, and President of the Princeton Chapter.

John joined the Commercial Atomic Power Department of Westinghouse Electric Corporation in 1954 and was lent to Princeton University in 1955 to work at Project Matterhorn, the University’s fusion energy program, for one year. His stay was extended annually for the next 30 years, at which time he retired from the Westinghouse Research and Development Center as a Consulting Scientist (the corporation’s highest non-managerial title) and joined Princeton University as a Principal Research Physicist in the Theory Division of its Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory (the name given to Project Matterhorn when the fusion program was declassified). He retired in 1995 but continued to work for several years as a consultant.

While at Princeton he served as Chairman of the Laboratory Patent Committee, on the Space Committee, and as a member of the Program Committee. His interests centered on magnetohydrodynamic equilibrium and stability studies of toroidal systems with an emphasis on tokamaks and stellarators, on which he published over 100 refereed papers. He collaborated with many physicists internationally, and spent significant periods at the Culham Laboratory in England, Nagoya University, Kyoto University, and the National Institute for Fusion Studies in Japan, the Australian National University, Max Planck Institute for Plasma Physics in Germany, Trieste University in Italy, and Los Alamos National Laboratory.

John was a Fellow of the American Physical Society and served as Secretary-Treasurer of its Division of Plasma Physics. He chaired the organizing committee for several meetings of the APS Division of Plasma Physics and associated fusion theory conferences, organized two Atomic Energy Agency International Conferences on Plasma Theory and Controlled Nuclear Fusion Research, and served on the Board of Editors of the journal Plasma Physics.

His major community contribution was through the Princeton United Methodist Church, where he served as delegate to the Southern New Jersey Annual Conference, financial secretary, and a member of its Board of Trustees. He was very proud of his activity with Boy Scout Troop 88, for which he was Committee Chairman, an Assistant Scoutmaster, Eagle Advisor, and Scoutmaster (for 16 years) as well as a member of the Stony Brook District Advancement Committee. He was honored for this service with the George Washington Council’s Silver Beaver Award. Under his encouragement his son, godson, and grandsons all achieved the rank of Eagle Scout. 

During their 69 years of marriage, John and Barbara were blessed with the opportunity to travel extensively in Europe, Asia, Australia, New Zealand, and North and South America. He loved spending time hiking in the Rocky Mountains and visiting children and grandchildren.

John was pre-deceased by his parents, Lowell Wallace and Esther Thornwall Johnson, his sister, Genevieve Jean Johnson, and his brother, Robert Clifton Johnson. He will be missed by his wife, Barbara Hynds Johnson, and his children, Lowell John Johnson and Michelle Dansereau Johnson of Raleigh, North Carolina, Lesley Johnson-Gelb and Steven Gelb of Oakland, California, and Jennifer Johnson Goodall and David George Goodall of Mill Valley, California, seven grandchildren, and one great-granddaughter. 

The family wishes that any memorials made in his name be directed to the Rocky Mountain Conservancy (rmconservancy.org) or the Princeton United Methodist Church’s Appalachia Service Project (princetonumc.org).

Arrangements are under the direction of Mather-Hodge Funeral Home, Princeton, NJ.

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Richard Stephen Blofson

1933-2020

Richard Stephen “Dick” Blofson, a Broadway production manager and New Jersey filmmaker, died peacefully on September 3, 2020, of complications of non-COVID pneumonia at the University Medical Center Princeton in Plainsboro, NJ. He was 87 years old.

As stage manager of Michael Todd’s blockbuster 1957 party at Madison Square Garden to celebrate the premiere of the film Around the World in 80 Days, he cued Marilyn Monroe’s entrance on an elephant. Blofson remembered that someone presented Elizabeth Taylor, Todd’s wife at the time, with a raccoon. “Here, take this,” she hissed at Blofson as she exited the stage. He also said he never saw so many rich people argue so vociferously over glasses of cheap champagne. The New York Times in 1999 called the event one of the “10 Parties that Shook the Century.” Although it was the most prominent production he worked on, it was not the one of which he was most proud.

Blofson’s career started when he was a student at Antioch College majoring in anthropology and creative arts, spending half the year in Yellow Springs, OH, and half the year in New York City working at the Phoenix Theatre. The director Arthur Lithgow (later artistic director at McCarter Theatre in Princeton) was his mentor at Antioch and deepened Blofson’s lifelong appreciation of Shakespeare. Among the many shows Blofson worked on at the Phoenix were The Golden Apple (1954), the first off-Broadway show to win the Best Musical Award from the New York Drama Critics’ Circle; and Once Upon a Mattress with Carol Burnett (1959); both went on to Broadway. In 1955, he worked with Bernard Gersten on the New York City Center production of Guys and Dolls, starring Walter Matthau. 

At the American Shakespeare Festival in Stratford, CT, Blofson worked on a number of productions, including a 1957 tour of Much Ado About Nothing with Katharine Hepburn and Alfred Drake, directed by John Houseman. During the tour, Hepburn paid for Blofson’s transportation back to New York to spend time with his infant son, who had a medical issue.

He was the stage manager for Barbara Streisand’s Broadway debut production, I Can Get It for you Wholesale (1962), in which Elliott Gould also played; for the gospel musical Tambourines to Glory (1963) by poet,
author, and playwright Langston Hughes;  for Strange Interlude (1963) directed by Jose Quintero with actors Jane Fonda, Franchot Tone, and Ben Gazzara; and Baby Want a Kiss (1964) with actors Paul Newman and Joanne Woodward.

Other artists he worked with include actors Jean Arthur, Richard Boone, Katherine Cornell, Richard Easton, Merv Griffin, Eliot Feld, Carol Lawrence, Nancy Marchand, Roddy McDowell, Geraldine Page, Jason Robards, and Fritz Weaver, as well as directors Sidney Lumet, Arthur Penn, and Ed Sherin; and playwrights Tennessee Williams and Sean O’Casey.

An inveterate traveler, he then embarked a freelance career as a camera operator for CBS, ABC, WNET, and the USIA that took him to Turkey and many countries on the African continent. For the USIA, he followed tennis players Arthur Ash, who was Black, and Stan Smith, who was white, during a series of exhibition games in various countries in Africa. Ashe was the first Black American male to win a NCAA tennis Championship, the first to win a Grand Slam Title, and the first to represent the United States in the Davis Cup; Smith was a World No. 1 American tennis player and two-time Grand Slam singles champion. 

For CBS, Blofson followed candidate and former Vice President Richard Nixon in the 1968 film version of The Making of the President. He also filmed productions for the National Theatre of the Deaf with his former Broadway colleague, lighting designer David Hays. 

In 1968, Blofson and filmmaker Nigel Noble formed Arden Productions. Several years later, he and Scott Nielsen cofounded The Production Staff, succeeded in 1977 by Telequest Inc., which specializes in documentary films. Among the productions for WNET were Clash of Cultures, which won a Cine Golden Eagle and a Eudora Welty American Award. Two of 16 animated shorts made for the CBS program Captain Kangaroo won a Silver award at the Houston International Film Festival and as a Best Children’s Program award for animation sequence.  

Director and cameraman for the New York Times History Project, Blofson worked on three films: Abe, about the career of the former executive editor Abe Rosenthal, who presided over the publication of the Pentagon Papers; Reston, about James “Scotty” Reston, the Pulitzer-Prize winning journalist who had been executive editor and columnist at the Times; and Hirschfeld, a celebration of the 85th birthday of Al Hirschfeld, caricaturist for the theatre section of the New York Times, whose hidden tributes to his daughter Nina were eagerly sought after by his followers. The footage was developed into The Line King, a full-length documentary written and directed by Susan Dryfoos that was nominated for an Academy Award. 

Telequest went on to make a series of documentaries for WNJN, Harvard University, Princeton University, independent schools, and various nonprofit organizations, including the Arts Council of Princeton, the Princeton Public Library, Womanspace of Mercer County, and a number of organizations based in Trenton, NJ, including the Children’s Home Society, and Isles. The company also made a pro-bono film called Before You Enlist to provide young people and their families a more complete picture of the life-altering consequences of joining the military, especially in wartime.

Born in Philadelphia in 1933, Blofson attended Central High School. During the Korean War, he served in the U.S. Navy on the USS Putnam. A member of the Actors Studio and the Actors Equity Association, among other organizations, he lived in New York from the 1950s until 1988, when he moved to Princeton. After he retired from Telequest, he came out from behind the curtain and the camera to become a player in Onstage Seniors (McCarter Theatre), whose members create and act short documentary stories collected from community members.

He is survived by his wife, Scotia MacRae, his son Tony Blofson from his marriage to Betty Hellman (which ended in divorce), wife Denise Paasche and grandsons Caleb and Pete Paasche; his daughters Kate Blofson (Thomas Case) and Beth Blofson (Ben Dickey) both from his marriage to Eleanor Harter Ruma (who died in 1982), and stepdaughter Aurora MacRae-Crerar (Vinayak Mathur). He was predeceased by his sisters Lorraine Blofson Brown and Jane Blofson Rudofker.

Contributions in Blofson’s honor may be made to the Arts Council of Princeton (www.artscouncilofprinceton.com), Friends of Princeton Open Space (www.fopos.org), or Veterans for Peace (www.veteransforpeace.org).

———

Barbara M. Spalding

Barbara M. Spalding, age 61, a longtime resident of Princeton, New Jersey, died Tuesday, September 1, 2020 at home surrounded by her loving family after a long and valiant battle against breast cancer.

Barbara will be remembered as a devoted wife, mother, and friend, who loved life and refused to be defined by the disease she spent almost two decades fighting. Barbara’s determination to overcome challenges was lifelong and her greatest joy came from helping others overcome obstacles in their own lives.

Barbara encouraged others to start businesses, return to school, live healthily, and stay positive even in the most trying times, an example she set for herself.

After earning a bachelor’s degree from Tufts University and a master’s from Johns Hopkins School of Advanced International Studies (SAIS), Barbara moved to Princeton in 1986 with her husband Keith Spalding. While balancing the demands of life as a young wife and mother, Barbara founded and grew her own Princeton-based insurance brokerage. Some of her children’s earliest memories are of sleeping on the floor of the “CEO’s” office when they were too sick to go to school.

Barbara was a successful local entrepreneur by the time she was first diagnosed with cancer. After beating the disease, she was inspired to sell her business in 2004 to return to university in mid-life to become a registered dietician, a career that married her twin passions of cooking and healthy living. Despite being more than 25 years older than many of her classmates, Barbara graduated summa cum laude from Rutgers and went on to also earn her master’s degree from the university.

As a dietician, Barbara combined her training and personal experiences to help other cancer patients stay healthy and resilient during recovery. She ran two blogs, Second Act Kitchen and Breast Cancer Wonderland, where she shared recipes she loved and gave advice to others struggling with their health.

Barbara loved spending time with her family at Lake George where she shared her passion for the natural world with her husband and children. Having grown up in Westport, Connecticut, Barbara loved sailing and swimming in open water and long hikes through the Adirondack forest. Most of all, she loved cooking and sharing a meal with family and friends on the dock, which she considered one of life’s simple but great pleasures.

Although she is gone far too soon, Barbara’s determination meant she was able to attend her daughter’s wedding and son’s college graduation, all while battling metastatic cancer. Her endless energy, resilience, and courage will always serve as an inspiration for her family, especially in this time of deep grief.

Barbara is survived by her husband of 34 years, Keith R. Spalding, son Holt Spalding of Princeton, NJ, daughter Rebecca Spalding and son-in-law Alexander Plough of New York, NY,  and brothers Brook Manville of Bethesda, Maryland, and Reed Manville of Paradise Valley, Arizona. She is predeceased by her father, Richard Manville, and mother, Mary Harbord Fox.

September 9, 2020

Obituaries 9/9/2020

Jeffrey Haig Bossart

Jeffrey Haig Bossart died on September 2, 2020 at age 67. Jeff was one of the kindest, most thoughtful, caring, smart, hard-working, and above all selfless men most people have ever known. He is survived by his three daughters (Caitie Bossart, Kristie Mass, and Callie Bossart), son-in-law (Darren Mass), and three grand-daughters (Lucine, Eloise, and Coraline Mass). He is also survived by his brother, David Bossart and family.

Jeffrey was born in Jersey City to Florence and Theodore Bossart. He and his brother, David, were raised in Chatham, New Jersey. Jeff went on to receive his Bachelor of Science from the American University in Washington, D.C., graduating cum laude. He received his Juris Doctor from the University of San Diego School of Law and his license to practice law in the State of New Jersey in 1983.

On January 15, 1983, he married his wife, Paula Jo Haider, who he met in San Diego while attending law school and working at Allstate Insurance. They were colleagues both working in the Claims department.

Jeff and Paula moved to Chester, New Jersey, and had their first and second daughters in 1985 and 1986. In 1989, they moved to Mission Viejo, CA, and had their third daughter, Callie. In 1993, they moved to Basking Ridge, New Jersey, where they stayed for the next 20 years.

Throughout these years, Jeff, Paula, and their family went on many family trips throughout the US, Europe, the Caribbean, and countless trips to Disneyland and Disney World. Jeff was an amazing provider and caretaker for his family. He always attended his children’s sports games and swimming competitions, and he never missed an opportunity to spend quality time with his girls.

Once Jeff and Paula were “empty nesters” they enjoyed many travels together, and loved going on cruises (the Baltic Sea cruise and Alaskan cruise were some of their favorites) and traveling around different parts of Europe.

Professionally, Jeff managed many specialty claims organizations throughout his career. This included numerous claim executive roles, his most recent being EVP and Chief Claims Officer for Aspen Insurance Group, which he retired from in December 2015. His subordinates, friends, and colleagues in the professional world would describe him as wise, generous, and passionate, and having an ability to listen without judgment and give them support, even beyond work-related topics.

In the bittersweet year of 2014, Jeff lost Paula to colon cancer after 31 years of marriage. Three months later, he became known as “Papa” when his first grandchildren, twins Lucine and Eloise, were born to his daughter Kristie and her husband, Darren. As Papa, he was fun-loving, supportive, and a regular part of Lucine and Eloise’s lives.

In his retirement, Jeff spent his time remodeling houses, going on bike rides and hikes, attending church, keeping his brain sharp by enrolling in classes at Princeton University, and spending time with his children and grandchildren. Jeff had many interests in self-discovery, growth, health, art, astronomy, and theater. He loved to walk around the center of town in Princeton, where he resided, and spent a lot of time along the trails and in the parks.

Jeff’s family never hesitated to tell him how much he meant to them and how much he was loved. He was, and always will be, a meaningful and important person in their lives. There are countless memories of him that his family will hold onto forever.

Jeff will be missed significantly, yet his family finds comfort knowing he and Paula will now be together eternally.

Services are being handled by Gallaway & Crane Funeral Home, 101 South Finley Avenue, Basking Ridge, NJ. For service information or to leave an online condolence for the family please visit their website at www.gcfuneralhome.com.

———

Ellen (Helen) M. Long

Ellen (Helen) “Bunnie” Mathilda Long died peacefully on September 1, 2020. Her daughter Eileen was with her. A resident of Princeton, NJ, since 1953, she was an active member of St Paul’s Parish, Princeton, NJ, and retired from Princeton University Firestone Library in 1995.

The fourth of five siblings, Helen was born in Fairtown, Co. Cavan, Ireland. In the 1920s her parents met and married in Brooklyn, NY, where two of Helen’s older siblings were born before the family returned to Ireland and bought a small farm. Shortly after she was born they all returned to the USA to live in Brooklyn. The Great Depression changed those plans yet again and they all went back to Ireland in 1936 where Helen spent a contented childhood. In 1953 she set sail for New York on the SS Mauritania from Cobh, Co. Cork, and as she writes in her memoir, “…to face the world on my own.”

After a short stay with her Aunt Helen in NY she took a job in Princeton, NJ, and eventually met Patrick J. Long. They married in 1956 settling in Princeton where they both worked, raised three children and proudly took advantage of all the opportunities of their USA citizenship. Helen’s children have the most wonderful memories growing up with their happy parents.

Helen was an enthusiastic volunteer both in St Paul’s ministries and at the Princeton Senior Resource Center. She shared a love of music, art, travel, and the simple pleasures of the world outdoors with everyone. Helen had a special approach to the aesthetics of everything around her. She trained, apprenticed, and was employed as a professional seamstress early in her working life. That expertise, talent, and her love of design meant she always planned and often made everything exactly to her own specifications. Her pretty gardens and generous hospitality welcomed visitors from everywhere. Her travel adventures took her around the US, to the Holy Land, Italy, France, Bahamas, through the Panama Canal and many times back to Ireland.

Predeceased by her husband Patrick J. Long and her son Michael P. Long, her brothers Nicholas Smith and Thomas Smith, and sister Kathleen Smith, Helen is survived by her son Brian J. Long of Princeton, NJ, daughter, M. Eileen Long and son-in-law, Tarik R. Shahbender both of Princeton, NJ; her sister, Margaret Paul of Lawrenceville, NJ; stepsisters Helen Cordner of Brewster, MA, and Mary Ellen Benedetto of Ventura, CA; and many cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends locally and around the world.

There will be a Mass of Christian Burial on September 10, 2020 at 10 a.m. at St. Paul’s Roman Catholic Church, 214 Nassau Street, Princeton, NJ. Mass will also be viewable starting at 9:50 a.m. at www.stpaulsofprinceton.org. Burial will follow the mass at Princeton Cemetery on Greenview Avenue, Princeton, NJ. A memorial for Helen will be planned at a later date when it is safer for friends and family to gather as we wish.

Donations in memory of Helen are welcome for the Princeton Senior Resource Center at princetonsenior.org or to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital at stjude.org.

Arrangements are under the direction of Mather-Hodge Funeral Home, Princeton.

———

Maurice D. Lee, Jr.

Maurice D. Lee, Jr., age 94, a longtime resident of Cranbury, New Jersey, died on July 12, 2020, as a result of a fall. Born in 1925 in Buffalo, New York, he was educated at the Hotchkiss School and Princeton University, from which he received his doctorate in 1950 after service in the Navy at the end of WW II.

A distinguished historian of 16th and 17th century British/Scottish history, he spent his life as a college professor, teaching generations of undergraduates and graduate students, first at Princeton University from 1950-59, then at the University of Illinois until 1966, and finally at the Douglass College Department of History at Rutgers University. He eventually chaired the History Department at Douglass, and in 1987 he was appointed the Margaret A. Judson Professor of History in honor of his distinguished predecessor at the College in the Tudor/Stuart field. A prolific writer, he wrote ten books, primarily focused on the Stuart period of British/Scottish history. For his lifetime of work in Scottish history, he was awarded an honorary doctorate in 1994 from the University of St. Andrews in Scotland. Although he officially retired from Douglass in 1996, he continued to teach at the College, and publish, for many years thereafter.

Maurice was deeply engaged with his friendships, politics, theatre, current events; he always had a book on hand. In the arts, his first love was opera, a lifelong passion. He was still attending Saturday matinee productions at the Metropolitan Opera in New York until the pandemic brought the curtain down on live performances in the spring of this year.

His wife of over 50 years, Helen, died of Alzheimer’s in 1999. He is survived by two children, Maurice D. Lee, III and L. Blair Lee, five grandchildren, three great-grandchildren, and his partner of many years, Laurine Purola. Because of Covid, a memorial has not yet been scheduled. As a strong supporter of women’s education, contributions may be made to the Institute for Women’s Leadership at Rutgers University.

———

Kelly Procaccino

Kelly Procaccino, of Princeton, died Monday, August 31, 2020 at Penn Medicine Princeton Medical Center, Plainsboro. Born in Princeton, NJ, she was a lifelong resident and attended Princeton High School. Kelly was employed by the State of New Jersey for 34 years, most recently as a Human Resource Specialist with the Division of Developmental Disabilities.

She was a member of St. Paul’s Church.She was a wonderful, kind, and loving person who cared about everyone she came in contact with. She especially loved celebrating Halloween and Christmas, going to the beach, and red Twizzlers.

Her late father, Ralph Procaccino, was a sergeant on the Princeton Borough Police Force. Her late mother, Marion (née Gibbons) Procaccino, was an operating room nurse at Princeton Medical Center. She met her husband, Thomas A. Clark, in 1978. Together for 42 years, they were married at La Piedad Church in Isla Verde, Puerto Rico, on January 21, 1995. She is survived by her husband, Thomas A. Clark; daughter Haley M. Clark; sisters Michele Lanahan and Rebecca Israel; nieces Ashley Israel, Alexis Stemler, Emily Clark, and Grace Clark; and nephews Christopher Lanahan, Andrew Bilgrav, and Thomas Bilgrav.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10 a.m. on Friday, September 11, 2020 at St. Paul’s Church (216 Nassau Street, Princeton).

Due to the COVID19 pandemic, everyone must wear a mask and social distance.

A memorial celebration will be held at a later date.

September 2, 2020

Obituaries 9/2/2020

Stephen N. Bender

Stephen N. Bender died peacefully in his sleep on Thursday, August 13th in Chapel Hill, NC. He was born on January 17th, 1934 in New York City, where he was raised. He is a graduate of Alfred University where he majored in chemistry and New York University College of Dentistry. 

He served as a Captain in the United States Army, Dental Corps 82nd Medical Detachment in Giessen, Germany. After being honorably discharged from the Army, he moved to Princeton in 1962.

He practiced dentistry in Princeton from 1962 to 2004, along with his partner, the late Jack Roemer. Their office at 214 N. Harrison Street was local architect Bob Hillier’s first commercial building. 

During his time in Princeton Steve was an active member and leader of the New Jersey and Mercer County Dental Associations, the Princeton Ski Club, and the Princeton Jewish Center, and he helped to establish the Department of Dentistry at Princeton Hospital. 

He was an avid skier – braving the icy and windy conditions of skiing in the Northeast while his children were young, before discovering the pleasures of the Rockies and the Alps.  He was a passionate world traveler – something that he shared with and passed on to his children. He continued to travel and even to ski long past the time that his body deemed those activities prudent.   

While he died peacefully, he lived his life fully and loudly – volunteering as a traveling dentist in Appalachia in the early 70s; hosting Ski Club sheep roasts in his backyard; yelling at his kids to find their way down an icy ski slope; buying a windsurfer before most of us knew what the sport was; asking his wife to endure travels to remote corners of the word, including horseback riding in Mongolia; collecting Asian antiques throughout his travels; driving through Hurricane Gloria to see his youngest daughter at her college parents’ weekend; and always driving a speedy little sports car (including his beloved mustard yellow Volvo p1800 which all of Princeton seems to recall, if only for its missing muffler which allowed all to hear it from blocks away).

He is survived by his wife Phyllis Bender of Chapel Hill, NC; his four children Lauren Bender (Adrian Hyde) of Princeton, David Bender of Richmond, VA, Michael Bender (Carolyn Bender) of Hopewell, and Ruth Bender (Dan Sheline) of San Francisco, CA; his grandchildren Tyler Bender, Katharine Bender, Lola Bender, and Hudson Bender; and his sister Judy Uman. He will also be missed by his stepchildren and stepgrandchildren.  He was preceded in death by his parents Maurice and Edna Bender of New York City. 

A private celebration of Stephen’s life will be held at a later date. Donations in his memory may be made to Dental Lifeline.

———

Carroll Keeley King

Carroll Keeley King, age 98, died on August 22, 2020.

She was born in New York City and grew up both there and in Fairfield, CT. She graduated from the Ethel Walker School in Simsbury, CT, and attended Finch College in New York City. She was a former member of the New York and Philadelphia Junior Leagues and worked for the Red Cross during World War II.

She lived in Princeton since 1957 and spent winters in Tubac, AZ, for over 30 years. While living in Princeton she dedicated her life to raising her family, travel, and volunteering within the community. She was interested and supported the D&R Greenway Land Trust, Princeton Area Community Foundation (Women and Girls), Meals on Wheels, Princeton Hospital, and the Tubac Art Museum in Arizona. She was an avid reader, enjoyed gardening and needlepoint, and was an expert flower arranger. She and her husband were founding members of the Bedens Brook Club.

Predeceased by her husband Frederick P. King Jr. she is survived by daughter Nancy K. Carleton of Kiawah Island, South Carolina, and son Frederick P. King of Dover, MA, plus six grandchildren Emily Vaughan of Chevy Chase, MD, Elissa Fontenot of Houston, TX, William Carleton of Albuquerque, NM, Fred King of Medfield, MA, Lissy Kasschau of Boston, MA, and Charlie King of Sherborn, MA, and nine great-grandchildren. She was devoted to her entire family including seven nieces and one nephew.

A private burial service will take place at a later date at All Saints’ Church in Princeton. Arrangements were made by the Mather-Hodge Funeral Home. Gifts in her honor may be made to D&R Greenway Land Trust, 1 Preservation Place, Princeton, NJ 08540.

———

Naomi Hanft Olin

Naomi Hanft Olin died on Sunday, August 9, 2020 at her home in Surprise, Arizona, just shy of her 98th birthday.

Born September 3, 1922, in Brooklyn, she spent the majority of her adult life in Trenton, New Jersey, after her marriage in 1947.

Meeting her husband was the stuff of fiction. Harry William
Olin (neé Olinsky) was born and educated in Trenton, attended Lehigh University, and served in World War II. They met on a blind date, arranged by mutual friends, under the large clock at Grand Central Station, New York, and were married at the Plaza Hotel in New York City.

Over three decades together in Trenton they raised their children, longtime Princeton resident Dr. Ferris Olin, Distinguished Professor Emerita, Rutgers University, and Arthur Olin, a retired State of Arizona Project Manager who lives in Goodyear, AZ.

Naomi Olin, unlike most mothers in the 1950s, went to work as the office manager for a Trenton-based lace factory while her husband was first employed as a paper salesman and then worked at the NJ Department of Transportation. He was also an entrepreneur, co-owning and co-founding Tele-Rent, a business that provided televisions to patients in all of Trenton’s hospitals from the 1950s-1970s.

Naomi Olin later became an interior decorator helping many householders in the area to place their already existing furnishings in more interesting ways as well as assisting clients to select new furniture, wall hangings, and rugs. She never imposed her own style on her clients, but rather helped her clients to identify their personal styles.

The Olins retired in mid-1970 to Delray Beach, Florida, where Naomi Olin took up tennis and golf — sports she had never played before. They fulfilled their dream of seeing the world. In 1989-1990, they spent a year traveling the world by flying westward across the Southern Hemisphere. They were in Tiananmen Square when the student-led demonstrations took place. She loved to tell the story about needing to replace clothing and suitcases at least three times during their travel, as well as saying that the trip allowed them to fall in love, all over again.

In 2000, when she was 77 years old, Naomi Olin fulfilled another lifelong dream — to get a college degree — something not available to her during the Depression, when she was forced to enroll in a two-year secretarial/business course which she finished in six months. She applied to Lynn University in Boca Raton, which had never had a returning student who was so old. She received credits for her life experiences by writing up her world trip as a modern version of Homer’s Odyssey and was tutored by a high school student who taught her to use computers and also helped her pass her math courses. When she received her BA in Liberal Arts at 80 years old, her proud family attended her graduation. She then worked for a number of years as a museum docent and volunteer. Perhaps following in her feminist art historian daughter’s footsteps, she gave several lectures on women artists, among them women artists in 1920s Paris and the work of Georgia O’Keeffe, as fundraisers for the local museum.

Soon after her graduation, the Olins decided to re-retire and moved to Surprise, Arizona, nearby where her son Arthur and his family lived. Moving to Arizona provided Harry and Naomi with new pleasures as they got to spend many hours with their grandchildren and then their great-grandchildren. Son Arthur and his wife Nancy spent much time with the elder Olins, both socially and then as companions and helpers when they were no longer able to get around. Their sons, Jarrett (wife Ashley and children Harrison and MacArthur) and Justin (wife Megan and sons Tanner and Cameron), were constant visitors. Naomi Olin set up tea dates with Tanner and Cameron and had overnight pajama parties at their home so she could watch them play team sports. She also traveled to Denver to spend time with Jarrett and his family.

Ferris visited often from her home in Princeton. When her daughter, Anya Olin-Leon, moved to Waltham, Massachusetts, she and her mother helped her decorate her new home. Naomi Olin is also survived by Ferris’ son, Noah Leon (wife Nicole and daughters, Nicole, Olivia and Mia) of Miami, Florida. The last major family event that Naomi Olin attended was the first birthday party for her great-granddaughter, Mia, which was held virtually in July due to the pandemic.

After moving to Arizona, Naomi Olin continued to work in local museums and led art history and art appreciation classes for public school students in grades 4-7. She organized an exhibition of the students’ works in one of the local museum. For many of the students and their parents, visiting the exhibition was the first time they had even been to a museum. 

During her years in Surprise and until the Covid pandemic, Naomi Olin played bridge several nights a week. She and her partner were well matched, and she often took home the winnings for the night.

After her husband’s death and well into her 90s, Naomi Olin continued to satisfy her wanderlust by cruising from Los Angeles to Tahiti, from Los Angeles to Seattle, Miami to Montreal, around the United Kingdom following the route of the Titanic back to Brooklyn, and to Spain and Portugal. Her travel companions were her son and daughter-in-law, and her daughter, with whom she roomed. These were her “last hurrah travels” which allowed her and her children to gather up many memories, sight-see, and enjoy lots of adventures together.

Naomi Olin fell on August 2nd, developed embolisms in her lungs, and died less than a week later. During her illness, she was constantly and lovingly attended by Arthur and Nancy Olin.

Due to Covid-19, there will be no funeral or memorial services. The family asks that if anyone wishes to honor the memory of Naomi Olin, to make a donation to the Naomi H. Olin Endowed Scholarship at Douglass College. The scholarship was established in 1992 by Dr. Ferris Olin in honor of her mother’s achievements by providing funds for non-traditionally aged women returning to college. Donations can be made at the Rutgers University Foundation website at support.rutgers.edu. Please specify that it is a memorial gift to the Naomi H Olin Endowed Scholarship.

August 26, 2020

Obituaries 8/26/2020

Jean S. Cheng

Jean S. Cheng passed away peacefully in her home on August 9, 2020, at 97 years old. She had been a full-time resident of Princeton for over 70 years. Most of her life she was inseparable from her high school sweetheart and then husband Professor Sin-I Cheng of Princeton University, who pre-deceased her in 2011. 

Born in the village of Wangli, China, she grew up amidst the turmoil of war, with first the Sino-Japanese War and then the Communist Revolution. She was the first in her family to strive for self-improvement through schooling, an extraordinary ambition when the education of girls was at best an afterthought. She attended a boarding school, needing to walk for days to get from home to school in the countryside at a time of war. She had decided for herself that education was a must, and nothing was going to get in her way.

Luck was with her when the Catholic Church chose to sponsor her for college in the United States, where she could join Sin-I who was already in the U.S. having won one of the few Chinese Government scholarships for studies abroad. For each of them, it was a once in a lifetime opportunity to achieve dreams that had been previously inconceivable. She was forever grateful for the generosity afforded to her by the Church, a priceless gift she never forgot. After graduating from the College of New Rochelle, she followed Sin-I to Princeton, and proudly relished his accomplishments over decades as a renowned professor in the Department of Aerospace and Mechanical Sciences at the University.

She is survived by her daughters Doreen and Irene and her son Andrew, seven grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. She often measured her own success by the success of her children and then theirs. She could not be more proud, or feel more fulfilled, than to see her life’s devotion to family bear such fruit. She never forgot where she came from, while also never taking her sights off the need to do better. She lived the motto “You make your own luck,” a lesson she passed on to all her family.

Extend condolences and share memories at TheKimbleFuneralHome.com.

———

Leighton Laughlin

Leighton Laughlin passed away at home in South Hero, VT, on Friday August 21, 2020 at the ripe old age of 93. He was born the son of Roberta Howe and Ledlie I. Laughlin in Buffalo, NY, on November 27, 1926, but moved with his parents at the age of 2 to Princeton, NJ, where he spent his childhood and most of his adult life. 

After service in the Marine Corps, he was a graduate of the class of 1949 from Princeton University. At the end of his sophomore year he married Carin Moore, with whom he was married for 51 years until her passing in 1998. In 2000 he married the former Ann Niebling Bartle; they celebrated their 20th anniversary earlier this year.  

Leighton had a varied career with his degree in psychology: he worked for Opinion Research, he had an administrative position at Project Matterhorn at the Plasma Physics Project of Princeton University, and was part of the formation of Princeton Applied Research Cooperative. Most of his professional life was spent as an investment advisor with various companies including Clark Dodge, Tucker Anthony, and finally Royal Bank of Canada (RBC). Leighton was very involved in the Princeton community, the Princeton Association of Human Rights and Trinity Episcopal Church. Much of his personal and financial involvement was behind the scenes of many organizations.

Leighton was predeceased by his first wife Carin Moore Laughlin, his parents, and two of his brothers, Ledlie and Robert. He is survived by his wife Ann of South Hero, VT; his four children Toby (Nancy) of Skillman, NJ, Buzz of Keene, NH, Al (Janet) of Hopewell, NJ, Carin and Dale Hoffman of Starksboro, VT; also 10 grandchildren and numerous great-grandchildren. He is also survived by Ann’s children Amanda (Greg) Mazaleski of Medford, NJ, Fred (Erin) Bartle of South Hero, VT, and Matt (Kristen) Bartle, also of South Hero, VT, and six grandchildren. Also his brother Jim of Skillman, NJ.  

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Isles, Inc., a community development and environmental organization supporting youth and families, 10 Wood Street, Trenton, NJ, 08618, or Trinity Episcopal Church, 33 Mercer St, Princeton, NJ, 08540. The burial and memorial will be private. Arrangements are made by Stephen C. Gregory and Son Cremation Services.

———

Richard Stockton Snedeker

Richard Stockton Snedeker, of Princeton, NJ, passed away on August 16, 2020.

Born in Brooklyn, NY, on April 14, 1927 to Leonard and Annis Snedeker, “Dick” attended Poly Prep Country Day School. He served in the U.S. Navy from 1945 to 1946. He graduated with a bachelor’s degree in aeronautical engineering from Princeton University in 1951 and received a master’s in 1961.

Initially employed by the Princeton University Press as a technical illustrator and editor, Dick moved on to work at Aeronautical Research Associates of Princeton (ARAP), where he spent his 40-year career working in the field of experimental fluid dynamics. He published nearly 100 papers and received five U.S. patents. He retired from ARAP in 1997.

Dick married Mary Ellen Burroughs in 1952. They moved to West Windsor in 1957 where they raised their three children. Dick added two major additions to their Grover’s Mill home, doing all the carpentry, plumbing, heating, electrical, and roofing work himself. 

A beloved fixture in many aspects of the local scene, Dick served as a board member for the Princeton Small Animal Rescue League for three years. He was also a member of the West Windsor-Plainsboro School Board for 12 years, serving as president for four. He co-authored the plan to regionalize West Windsor with Plainsboro and played a significant role in the construction of the first West Windsor-Plainsboro High School.

Dick was chairman of the Grover’s Mill Pond Task Force, which successfully revitalized the pond. He also served as a board member for the Friends of West Windsor Open Space (FOWWOS) which protected areas of the township from development.

After retiring from ARAP, Dick gave walking tours of Princeton for the Princeton Historical Society and was a docent at the Morven Museum.  He helped found the West Windsor Arts Council and constructed large “Fabulous Forms” sculptures in his home woodshop for township children to paint during the council’s spring celebration. He also wrote the popular column “Looking Back” for the West Windsor-Plainsboro Community News, relating fun facts and anecdotes about West Windsor history.

An IC4A champion miler while at Princeton, Dick competed in area road races for many years, usually winning his age group. He officiated Princeton cross-country and track meets and received the Larry Ellis Alumni Award for his service. 

Dick enjoyed taking his family on camping trips to places such as Nova Scotia, Lake Michigan, and Cape Hatteras. Later in life, he and Mary Ellen found immense pleasure in semi-annual trips to numerous destinations around the globe, with western and eastern Europe as particular favorites. Dick was a master woodworker and his hobbies included building furniture, making art, and family genealogy. He and Mary Ellen especially loved German band music, Gilbert and Sullivan, and John Philip Sousa.

Dick and Mary Ellen were married for 60 years until her passing in 2012.  Dick is survived by his children Jenky Snedeker and her partner Kevin McCue of Essex Junction, VT, James Snedeker of Sunderland, MA, and Amy Snedeker of Pennington, NJ; three nephews: Robert Taylor of Asbury, NJ, Robert Snedeker and his wife Fran of Larchmont, NY, Don Snedeker and his wife Victoria of Falls Church, VA; two grandchildren: Laurel Jenkins, her husband Matthew Kent and their son Desmond of Middlebury, VT, and Peter Dugan, his wife Angela, and their children Siena and Caleb of Hopkinton, MA.

The Snedeker family offers thoughts and prayers to all those suffering from Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. Dick and Mary Ellen were huge animal lovers all their lives. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to SAVE, A Friend to Homeless Animals, 1010 Route 601, Skillman, NJ 08558.

A family service will be held on Tuesday, September 1, 2020 at 1 p.m. followed by burial of ashes in Princeton Cemetery, 29 Greenview Avenue, Princeton, NJ 08540, that everyone is welcome to attend at 2 p.m. A Zoom service will take place on Tuesday, September 1, 2020 at 1 p.m. A link for the service will be available in the service information section of Richard’s obituary on matherhodge.com.

Arrangements are under the direction of Mather-Hodge Funeral Home, Princeton.

August 19, 2020

Obituaries 8/19/2020

Herman Alexander Zullow

Herman Alexander Zullow, the cherished and beloved son of Keith Zullow and Kathleen Moriarty, the loving brother of Madeleine, Lillian, and Hannah Zullow, and the adored grandson of Marlene Zullow, passed away on Sunday, August 9, 2020, at the too young age of 20.  

Herman was born in Manhattan, New York, on April 19, 2000. He lived almost half his life in Ossining, New York, and then moved to Princeton Junction, New Jersey, where he attended The College of New Jersey.  

Herman was a quiet, gentle soul with a quirky sense of humor. As a child, he enjoyed inventing silly characters and games when playing with his younger sisters. He shared inside jokes with his sisters and was often heard laughing late into the night while gaming online with his friends. He also loved his pets (two dogs and two cats) and had a special bond with them. They brought him great comfort and joy, especially during times of turmoil.

From a young age Herman showed a strong interest in the outdoors and nature, something that matured into a lifelong love for hiking and adventure.  Between family trips and camps, he bungee jumped and hiked mountains all over the world, including glaciers in Iceland, the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu in Peru, Pulpit Rock and Kjeragbolten in Norway, and many others in the United States. During such hikes, Herman’s compassionate side would shine through, as he could often be found with the slowest hikers making sure that they were okay or raising group spirits through trail games. Herman also surfed sand dunes in Peru, surfed 15-foot waves in Hawaii, and even surfed with his sisters in the Arctic Circle.  

Herman’s greatest passion was technology. He would take apart old phones and other devices to learn how they worked. This curiosity for electronics morphed into a talent for computer programming and software engineering. Herman was a self–taught programmer in multiple languages and successfully built and fixed computers and other devices for himself and loved ones. Some of Herman’s happiest times were when he was tinkering with an electronic device and searching for ways to make it work.  

Since age 9, Herman battled health issues with physical and psychological manifestations, including anxiety and depression. He was diagnosed with an autoimmune disorder known as PANS/PANDAS (Pediatric Neuropsychiatric Disorders Associated with Streptococcal Infections) that caused inflammation in the brain and neurological and psychological symptoms, including anxiety, OCD, and tics. He was later diagnosed with Bartonella, an insect-borne bacterial disorder that can also have psychological manifestations, including anxiety and depression. Unfortunately, the stress of college combined with his battles with these physical and mental illnesses proved too much for him to bear. Though Herman’s time with his family was short, he touched many lives and was loved deeply by those around him. His family cherishes his memory as the brief gift it was.

In lieu of flowers, the family respectfully requests that memorial contributions be made to the Brain and Behavior Research Foundation (https://www.bbrfoundation.org) and the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (https://afsp.org).

To leave condolences for the family, visit orlandsmemorialchapel.com.

———

Lawrence Robert Caruso

Lawrence Robert Caruso, known as “Bob” to his close friends, and professionally as “Robin the Juggler,” was born in Princeton, NJ, on Friday, February 7, 1958 and died on Friday, August 7, 2020 in Gainesville, Florida, where he was a longtime resident.

His sisters Amy Pisechko and Marti Davis have fond memories of him teaching them how to ride and fix bicycles, and how to box and juggle. Amy said that her boxing skills have been a lifelong form of self-defense and have made her fearless.  Marti says, “He bought me my very first 10-speed bicycle, a used Schwinn, that he fixed up for me as a birthday present.” When she was learning to ride it, she looked back at him and “smacked right into the back of a parked car!”  Lawrence told her that falling is inevitable and to “get right back up again and go!” 

His sister Gina Caruso remembered the extensive rock collection that he gathered in the 1960s from the dumpster behind Guyot Hall on the Princeton University Campus.  She recalls that he would identify, label, and arrange his rocks, and as a reward for “not telling on him for his almost daily, imaginative pranks,” would periodically give her a private tour of his collection. “He was the most mischievous child I’ve ever met, but he had such a sparkling curiosity. I loved exploring Guyot Hall and building forts with him in the woods,” she says. 

As a teen he was a promising visual artist and drummer who loved Pink Floyd, David Bowie, and the Velvet Underground. His sister Kathleen Kalinowski remembers when he hitchhiked across the country in his 20s and sent postcards home written in a Jack Kerouac-like style. His sister Mary Ann Mitchell remembers frequently corresponding with Lawrence when she was serving in the military in Iraq.  In 2003, she visited him in Florida, and they watched Kill Bill together. “I just loved him,” she said.

Lawrence was a certified electrician, professional juggler, owned a small moving company, played chess in a club he organized, loved old cars and motorcycles, and his dogs.  He is survived by his 91-year-old mother Mollie Jean Caruso, and his siblings John Caruso, Kathleen Kalinowski, Mary Ann Mitchell, Gina Caruso, Marti Davis, Amy Pisechko, and Aaron Caruso. Donations can be made in his memory to the ASPCA. 

A memorial for him will be held at a later date. 

———

Louise Russell Irving

1922 – 2020

Louise Russell Irving, aka “Weedie,” was born on March 14th, 1922 in New York City. She died at home in Princeton on August 8th, 2020. She was 98. Her large family sorely misses her.

In 1947, she married the late John E.D. Irving, a DuPont Co. marketer. They honeymooned at Varadero Beach, Cuba, and went on to raise five children: John Jr., of Princeton; the late Henry Russell Irving of Cambridge, Mass; Douglas Irving of Princeton; David D. Irving of NYC; and Carol R. Irving of Northumberland, England. John and Louise were together for over 50 years until his death in 1998.

Louise attended Miss Hewitt’s School in NYC; Foxcroft School in Middleburg, VA (under the celebrated headmistress Miss Charlotte Noland). Her friends from Foxcroft School remain loyal unto death. Louise received a BA in zoology from Barnard College in 1944.

After college, and consonant with American WWII efforts, she signed up as an assistant nurse with the Red Cross and shipped out in early 1945 to Tagaytay, Philippines. There, the U.S. Marines welcomed her and made her their “Company Mascot.” Mustered out with the homebound soldiers after VJ day, she built her family with John successively in Wilmington, New York City, Providence, and Unionville, PA. After her husband died, she relocated to Princeton, her childhood summer home. Louise was conversant in French, Italian, and Spanish and applied her language skills in travels to such other countries as Vietnam and Panama. She returned from those trips and penned lively travelogues for her local newspapers. Louise practiced assiduously at the piano all her life, which brought her immense joy. She played competent tennis and golf. She loved astrology.

Louise promoted her six grandchildren’s participation in sports, music, film, and dance. While in Princeton, she was a strong proponent of the Charter School and the admirable PHS Studio Band jazz program directed by Joe Bongiovi. Her grandchildren visited her regularly, traveled with her, laughed with her, and delighted in her charisma and indomitable energy. Louise was always thrilled to see her family and especially proud of her great-grandchildren. 

She was a dyed-in-the-wool Republican with strong opinions about politics, American life, and food. She regularly hosted local Republican functions at her home, and in recent years was distraught at Leftist and progressive excesses in America. She liked President Trump and preferred “All Lives Matter” to other iterations of that concept. She was an avid, competitive bridge player up to the day she died, with a few games already scheduled for the following week. She planned to live forever.

Survivors include her four adult children John, Douglas, David, and Carol, their spouses, as well as the spouse of her predeceased son Henry; six grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; and her younger brother Archibald Douglas Russell and his family.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to The Princeton Republican Club, 131 Victoria Mews, Princeton, NJ 08542 or PHS Band Parents Association, c/o Amanda Kewley, 174 Nassau Street, Suite 423, Princeton, NJ 08542. 

Written by John Irving Jr.

———

“Pete” Peters

Florence “Pete” Lamborn Peters passed away peacefully at Acorn Glen Assisted Living in Princeton, New Jersey, on July 19. She had just turned 92 in June.

Pete was born June 28, 1928 in Montclair, New Jersey, and was the second child of John Warren Lamborn and Anna Elizabeth Flynn. Pete graduated from The Convent of the Sacred Heart Maplehurst (now Greenwich) in 1945 and from Rosemont College in 1949 with a degree in English. Upon graduation, Pete returned home to Montclair where she worked in a photography studio. 

While spending her summers at Martha’s Vineyard, she met Landon Peters, who also happened to be from Montclair.  She married Landon on February 2, 1952 and they moved to San Antonio, Texas, where Landon served in the Air Force during the Korean Conflict. Their eldest child, Eric, was born in San Antonio.  They truly enjoyed their adventure there, far from family, and made many lifelong friends. They visited San Antonio many times, thereafter.

They returned to Princeton, New Jersey, so Landon could finish his studies at Princeton University, from which he graduated in 1956, though a member of the Class of 1952. Pete and Landon remained in Princeton for the rest of their lives, where their sons Michael, John, David, and Christopher were born. Pete’s younger cousin, Elinore Flynn, came to live with them in 1957, after her parents had died. They were married for 53 years until Landon’s death in 2005. 

Pete’s ties to Martha’s Vineyard were deep. Both sets of grandparents became summer residents in the early 1900s. While spending time there, she enjoyed sailing and tennis, and hosting visitors at Pohogonot Farm, as well as at the home that Landon and she built in 1989.  Until recently, she spent summers there every year of her life.  She was devoted to her large, extended family there and to the preservation of Pohogonot and its flora and fauna.

Her own mother’s lessons of community service led Pete to enjoy a long career as a volunteer in Princeton community organizations.  During the 1960s her focus was more on religion, helping to initiate, and teach, lay-taught CCD classes at St. Paul’s Church, and as a founding board member of the Princeton Interfaith Council, an ecumenical organization of people with a variety of community concerns.  At various times in the 1970s and 80s, she served on boards and various committees for the Princeton YWCA, Friends of Princeton University Art Museum, McCarter Theatre, the Medical Center Auxiliary, and the United Way of Princeton. Many of her roles focused on editing newsletters and publicity.

Her interest in history, its preservation and ongoing interpretation, drove a deep commitment to the Historical Society of Princeton, serving at various points in time, on its Board of Trustees, as Vice President, and editor of its “News and Notes.” Gardening and flower arranging was one of her primary interests throughout her adult life.  She was a member of the Garden Club of Princeton for 51 years during which she held many leadership roles including President. Friends in the GCP recall Pete as a knowledgeable and passionate horticulturist and gardener, a fabulous flower arranger, a mentor to everyone who sought her advice, and a worker who chased down every detail.  Pete served the Garden Club of America as Director, Board of Associates member, Chairman of Archives, Secretary of the Finance Committee, and Zone IV Director. She received the Zone IV Creative Leadership Award and the GCA Medal of Merit. Pete and her friend Phyllis Hamel ran The Princeton Flower Shop for several years in the early 1980s. Together with Landon, she grew and maintained gardens at their homes in Princeton and Edgartown, MA. 

In 1990, the United Way of Princeton awarded her the Gerard Lambert Award, its annual award recognizing volunteer leadership. Pete held a firm belief that those who have been blessed with good fortune have a responsibility to contribute to their communities and to those less fortunate.  She also greatly valued the enduring, cross-generational friendships that were a part of all of her community activities.

Pete was also a founding Trustee of Kieve Affective Education in 1974 (now Kieve Wavus Education) which runs Camp Kieve and Wavus Camp for Girls on Lake Damariscotta in Maine. Several of her sons and granddaughters attended those camps, as have many Princeton residents.

She was a member of Prettybrook Tennis Club, the Nassau Club, and Springdale Golf Club.

Pete was predeceased by her husband Landon, her son Michael, her sisters Patricia Coward Kolbe and Elizabeth Lamborn, her brothers John W. Lamborn, Jr., and George D. F. Lamborn, and her daughter-in-law Sarah Gelotte Peters. She is survived by her sons, Eric  and his wife, Eileen Murphy, and John, of Vineyard Haven, David, of Princeton, New Jersey, and Christopher and his wife Kathryn, of Dallas, Texas, her seven grandchildren, Nathaniel Peters, Molly Peters, Emily Peters, Caroline Peters, Lorna Peters, Charles Landon Peters, Kathryn Peters, and her great-grandchild, John Peters.

A memorial service in Princeton will be held and burial will be at Martha’s Vineyard, both at a future date.

Donations in her memory may be made to the Historical Society of Princeton, 354 Quaker Road, Princeton, NJ 08540 or the Martha’s Vineyard Museum, 151 Lagoon Pond Road, Vineyard Haven, MA 02568.

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Barbara MacLeod Morgan

January 3rd, 1935 –July 28th, 2020

Barbara MacLeod Morgan 85, of Stockbridge, MA (formerly of Princeton, NJ) passed away peacefully on July 28th at home with her daughters by her side.  

Barbara was born in Bear River, Nova Scotia, Canada, to Reverend Archibald A. MacLeod and Barbara Grace MacLeod. She was educated at Saint Andrews High School, Saint John General Hospital Nursing School (Registered Nurse), and University of Pennsylvania (Masters of Science in Nursing — Nurse Practitioner). She lived in Princeton for 47 years and summered on Prince Edward Island, her ancestral home, in her beloved seaside cottage on the Northumberland Strait.

In 1962 Barbara met and married her first husband, David Baxendale, in Nova Scotia, Canada, where she worked as a Registered Nurse at the Cornwallis Naval Station Medical Center and where he was an officer in the Royal Canadian Air Force. Soon after the birth of their two daughters they moved to Cambridge, MA. During those years, Barbara worked at Mount Auburn Hospital while David attended university. Subsequently the family settled in Princeton, NJ, where Barbara was employed at Princeton Medical Center, both in the Operating Room and the Neonatal departments; Carrier Clinic; and eventually Princeton University Health Center. Their marriage ended in divorce in 1982.

In 1985 Barbara married Arthur Palmer Morgan of Princeton, NJ. Barbara and Arthur enjoyed a 32 year marriage including travel to five continents. Barbara worked as a fundraiser in the interest of the environment, in expanding the Princeton Public Library, and in supporting Planned Parenthood. Together she and Arthur formed a blended family with five daughters, always keeping up with the comings and goings of each and providing support and wisdom. They welcomed many shared grandchildren and great-grandchildren into their fold throughout the years. 

Although Barbara worked in many areas of medicine during her 35 year career she was most devoted to woman’s health care concerns. As a Nurse Practitioner at the Princeton University Health Center, she was especially proud of the pre-natal and post-natal program she established for international students and their spouses offering a supportive and loving atmosphere.

As an advocate and ally of those less fortunate among us, Barbara always extended her hand to offer support to those in need. A lifelong progressive, she was concerned with the socio-political atmosphere created by the current administration in Washington and followed politics, environmental and social justice issues until the end. She recognized suffering in all forms and responded with compassion.

Barbara was predeceased by her grandson William MacLeod Manning, sister Alexandra (Sandra) Thompson, brother Bently MacLeod, stepbrother Hinson MacLeod, stepsister Marion Burns, and her husband Arthur Morgan.

She is survived by her daughters Robin Alexandra Manning of Great Barrington, MA, and Jennifer MacLeod Baxendale (Richard Epstein) of Stockbridge, MA, and Dummerston, VT, and her three surviving grandchildren —Jesse Baxendale Manning (Jack), Donovan William Lally, and Lucy Alexandra Manning. She especially delighted in time spent with her devoted family.

Barbara is also survived by her brother Archie MacLeod (Carmel) of Halifax, Nova Scotia, and her stepdaughters Ann Battle (Craig) of Princeton, NJ, Cathy Morgan (John) of Hawaii, and Cynthia Pastahov (Stefan) of Linconville Center, ME, and her stepgrandchildren Jason Battle (Sarah), Celina Fuller (Dan), Morgan Battle (Brooke), Silas Standard (Cali), Alex Pastahov (Brittony), Miles Pastuhov (Sabrina), and Eloise Standard (Patrick). She was lovingly known as “GG” by her great-grandchildren.  

In honor of Barbara we invite you to make a contribution to HospiceCare in The Berkshires, Inc., 877 South Street, Suite 1W, Pittsfield, MA 01201.

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William W. Augustine

William Winfield (“Bill”) Augustine died peacefully of natural causes on August 9, 2020 at Brandywine Assisted Living, where he had resided for the last eight years. He was 93.

A longtime resident of the Princeton area, Bill was born in Johnstown, Pennsylvania, on March 26, 1927. In 1942, his parents, Thomas Henry and Ruth Duncan Augustine, moved the family to Bucks County, near Bowman’s Hill Tower, so that Bill’s father could work for General Motors in Trenton in support of the War effort. Bill’s older brother, Duncan, studied engineering at Princeton University, and Bill loved to recount stories about coming to Princeton as a child in the 1930s to visit his brother.

As a young man, Bill had his eye on a career in radio and the exciting new medium, television. He received voice training for radio in Philadelphia and also became involved with the local theater, playing leading roles in several productions at the Play and Players Theater there. However, despite having job offers from local radio and TV stations, he ultimately decided on a different path. After attending Rider College for several years, he left to take a series of sales and marketing positions with Dodge Reports, 3M, and Standard Oil, which sent him to work in Italy for several years. In the mid-1950s, Bill returned to the Princeton area to work for Johnson & Johnson as a product manager. 

In 1960, he and local contractor, Ray Hunt, formed Hunt & Augustine, Inc., which quickly became a leading residential construction and real estate development firm in the Princeton area. They partnered with architect William Thompson, Jr. AIA, who had previously spent several years as the resident architect for Williamsburg, in designing both custom homes and residential developments, including  Winfield, Audubon and Castle Howard in Princeton and the Abey tract and the Pennington Professional Center in Pennington.

In 1962, Bill began development of the property that would become the Bedens Brook Club in Skillman. Bill was one of the founders of the golf club, and the Bedens Brook Company, of which Bill was President, also built many of the beautiful custom-designed homes that ring the golf course. 

In 1981, Hunt & Augustine began development of a 700-acre tract of land in Skillman as a golf club community to be named Cherry Valley Country Club. Bill assembled the land and obtained all of the necessary approvals, which was a grueling process that took many years. This project was eventually sold to Dyson, Kissner & Moran. However, Bill remained involved until the Cherry Valley golf course was completed. It opened in 1991.

Bill married his wife, Mary Jane, in 1986. They loved adventure and traveled extensively together. One notable trip involved following the Silk Road across China from east to west in 1995. That trip ended abruptly in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, when Bill became seriously ill from food poisoning and had to be transported by medivac plane to the American Hospital in Istanbul, where he stayed for more than a month. There, he made many friends among the hospital staff, who started spending their breaks visiting in his room. In typical fashion, Bill Augustine fashion, he turned his time in the Istanbul hospital into a continuation of the Silk Road adventure.

Throughout his business career, Bill always found time to be active in the community and later in life, he devoted much of his time and energy to charitable pursuits. While serving as President of both Hunt & Augustine, Inc. and the Bedens Brook Company, he was also President of the Princeton Art Association and Senior Vice President of the Princeton Ballet. After retiring, he became a Board member of the American Red Cross of Central Jersey, which awarded him the Bob Clancy Culture of Caring Award for service in 2008. He was also a longtime volunteer with Meals on Wheels, continuing to deliver meals and cheer to shut-ins well into his mid-80s.

Bill was an accomplished athlete pursuing tennis, figure skating, running, and golf at various times in his life. However, golf was his enduring passion. He took up the game in his late 20s and continued to play until he was well past 80. He loved nothing better than spending time on the Bedens Brook and Cherry Valley Country Club golf courses with his many friends. He was especially proud of being an honorary member of both Clubs. In his later years, he researched and authored detailed histories of Bedens Brook and Cherry Valley, which he gave as an enduring gift to both the Clubs and their members.

Bill was pre-deceased by his parents; his brother, Duncan Colfax Augustine; his sister, Natalie Jean Augustine; and his two children by a previous marriage, William Winfield Augustine, Jr. and Sara Dougan Augustine. He is survived by his wife, Mary Jane Augustine; his stepdaughter, Lia Christian Nielsen, of Lambertville; and a nephew, Dr. D.C. Augustine of Amherst, Virginia.

A private memorial service is planned for late September. 

The family wishes to express their gratitude to Brandywine Assisted Living and Vitas Healthcare for taking wonderful care of Bill. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the American Red Cross of Central Jersey. Extend condolences and share memories at blackwellmh.com.

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Evelyn Geddes

Evelyn Geddes, age 97, of Princeton, New Jersey, passed away on August 11, 2020 after suffering a stroke. Evelyn lived a long, full life. She loved cooking, travel, reading, and had a very wide range of interests ranging from healthcare policy to politics, social justice, and the arts.

Evelyn was born in Brooklyn, NY, to Harry and Rose Basse in 1923. She grew up mostly in Brooklyn, with a short period in Providence, Rhode Island. She graduated from James Madison High School, and then earned a BA in economics from Brooklyn College and studied economics in graduate school at the University of Wisconsin. She married Robert Geddes, her husband of 73 years, in 1947. They had two children, David, an anthropologist and business consultant, and Ann, an architect and ceramic artist.

Evelyn was involved in Democratic politics in Pennsylvania and New Jersey. She was particularly active in healthcare issues, as president of Planned Parenthood of Mercer County, as president of the Princeton School Board, introduced sex education programs into the Princeton schools, and served as chair of the New Jersey State Health Commission.

She is survived by her husband, her two children, seven grandchildren, ten great-grandchildren, her sister (Minna Berkowitz), one niece and her family, and one nephew and his family, and several cousins.

The family will be having a Zoom funeral service in the near future. In lieu of flowers, gifts in her memory should be made to the Guttmacher Institute.

August 12, 2020

Obituaries 8/12/2020

Edward J. McCabe, Jr.
Susan C. McCabe

Edward J. McCabe, Jr. (Ted), 85, of Princeton died suddenly on Friday, July 31, 2020. Born in New York, NY, he was the son of the late Dr. Edward J. McCabe and Mary (Webster) McCabe. Ted was preceded in death by his sister, the late Patricia (McCabe) O’Connell, and is survived by his younger sister Mary Sue (McCabe) Virtue.

Three days later, Susan C. McCabe (Susie), 83, of Princeton died Monday, August 3, 2020 at home surrounded by her loving family. Born in Chicago, IL, daughter of the late George Shepard Chappell Jr. and Caroline (Smith) Chappell. Her death was preceded by her sister, the late Barbara (Chappell) Copello and her brother, the late George S. Chappell, III.

The McCabes have been residents of Princeton since 1966. Ted enjoyed a successful investment banking career before retirement. Susie was a co-founder and president of SAVE Animal Rescue for over 20 years, and worked for over 30 years as Manager of Talbots, Princeton. She also served on Board of Trustees for The Hun School.

Ted was a graduate of The Canterbury School and The University of Vermont ’56, where he was a member of the Phi Delta Theta Fraternity and the Men’s Basketball Team. Ted proudly served in the United States Marine Corps as Ranger Captain. Susie was a graduate of Miss Porter’s School and Smith College ’58. Ted and Susie spent their days enjoying their children, grandchildren, and great-grandchild. Both avid sports fans, the McCabes didn’t miss a game of their beloved New York Yankees.

They are survived by sons E. Michael McCabe and Christopher James McCabe (Helen); daughters Pamela McCabe Haley, Sheila Shumway McCabe, and Wendy McCabe Messick (Scott); grandchildren Christopher H. Grey (Kate), Spencer M. Grey (Ashley), Olivia L. McCabe, Faye W. Haley, Andrew E. Haley, Grace C. Haley, Oliver M. McCabe, Benjamin H. McCabe, Molly J. McCabe, Charlotte C. McCabe, and Miles E. McCabe; and great-grandchild George Edward Grey.

A private celebration of life will be held in Martha’s Vineyard at a later date.

Donations in their honor may be made to: SAVE – A Friend to Homeless Animals, 1010 Route 601, Skillman, NJ 08558 or Vineyard Trust, PO Box 5277, Edgartown, MA 02539, or Huntington’s Disease Society of America (HDSA.org).

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Dr. Klaus Georg Florey

Dr. Klaus Georg Florey, noted biochemist and pharmaceutical scientist, died at home in Princeton, New Jersey, on August 4 surrounded by family. He was 101. He was a Princeton resident for 62 years.

Dr. Florey served as the head of Analytical Research and Development for Bristol-Myers Squibb, where he spent over 30 years of his career. As an expert advisor for the World Health Organization (W.H.O.), Dr. Florey shared his knowledge with developing nations across the world and served on the W.H.O. Expert Advisory Panel on the International Pharmacopoeia from 1976-93. He was also active on the Revision Committee for the United States Pharmacopeia, 1970-95. From 1980-81, he served as President of the Academy of Pharmaceutical Sciences, and in 1983 he was elected Chairman of the Council of Scientific Society Presidents, the center for national science leadership and policy development, headquartered in Washington, D.C. As a leader in pharmaceutical science, Dr. Florey was awarded the Research Achievement Award from the American Pharmaceutical Association Foundation in 1987 and the Distinguished Service Award from the American Association of Pharmaceutical Scientists in 1990, where he served as Academy Fellow. In recognition of his scientific contributions, he was elected as Fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Science, a lifetime honor. Over his long career, Dr. Florey was perhaps best known for creating the annual book series, Analytical Profiles of Drug Substances, a resource used worldwide and for which he served 22 years as the editor.

Born on July 4, 1919 in Dresden, Germany, Klaus was the eldest son of Friedrich Georg Florey and Margarethe Pick. He completed the Academic Gymnasium in Coburg, Germany, before receiving a Master’s degree in Chemistry at the University of Heidelberg. Klaus’ mother was of Jewish ancestry, and his family was therefore persecuted during WWII. Miraculously, Klaus survived the war and he and his brother Peter made the decision to leave Germany. In 1947, Klaus traveled by refugee ship organized by the World Council of Churches to New York City and began his new life in the United States. He became a naturalized U.S. citizen in 1952 and went on to receive his PhD in Biochemistry from the University of Pennsylvania in 1954.

Klaus’ curiosity never waned. He always had a book by his side and explored a wide range of literature, translating his favorite German literary works into English. He was an avid traveler and enjoyed many adventures with his family in the Alps and across the globe. He had a lifelong love of classical music and art, regularly attending concert series in Princeton and New York and frequently visiting the Metropolitan Museum of Art. In 1991, he joined the Princeton University Art Museum Docent Association, leading tours and serving as the association’s archivist.

Dr. Florey is survived by his beloved wife of 64 years, Anne Major Florey; his children, Peter Georg Florey and his wife Patricia Dalmazio, Andrea Florey Bradford and her husband Samuel C. Bradford, and five grandchildren, John Florey and his wife Katie, Michael Florey and his wife Jessica, Stephanie Bradford and her fiancé Kevin Toth, Sarah Bradford, and Elisabeth Bradford, and three step-grandchildren, Anthony-John Scordio, Marco Scordio, and Jon-Paul Scordio. A memorial gathering will be held in the future. Gifts in Dr. Florey’s honor may be made to the Princeton University Art Museum Docent Association, Princeton University Art Museum, Princeton, NJ, 08544-1018.

———

Ruth Jane Kenneweg Bruns

Ruth died peacefully in her sleep at home in Belle Mead, NJ, with her loving husband of 61 years by her side on July 31, 2020. Born on October 26, 1936 and raised in Brooklyn, NY, Ruth attended Collegiate Institute in Manhattan following high school graduation, earning an Associate’s Degree in Paralegal Studies, and then went straight to work for a private firm on Wall Street.

Ruth was a lifelong member of the Lutheran Church throughout the years, always joining a local church wherever she lived. During her youth she was a member of Good Shepherd in Brooklyn where she was baptized, confirmed, and later married. It was in her mid-teens that her husband to-be joined the church. That’s when it all started. They were part of a very active youth group and, in addition to youth group activities, shared the additional interests of playing city-wide basketball and singing in the church choir. The romance grew through the years and they were married when Bob graduated from Lehigh University.

Bob was then commissioned in the Air Force and the newlyweds headed off to their first assignment in Omaha, NE. Ruth enjoyed a good life in Omaha, joining one of the city’s top law firms and working with a great staff of attorneys on some of the city’s largest cases. She was treated well by Bob’s Air Force colleagues as the officers and their wives treated Ruth and Bob as their kids, always very kind and accommodating, making the young married couple feel comfortable and welcomed. Ruth became friends with many great people in Omaha, many of whom remained great friends through the years.

Following Bob’s resignation from the Air Force, he joined IBM in Bethesda, MD, where they spent the next three years and celebrated the birth of their daughter, Kristin. Bob was then transferred “home” to NY to work at IBM’s Research Center in Yorktown Heights, NY. There, Ruth established her roots for 29 years and during that time their son, Kirk Lars, was born. Both children grew up there until they went off to college. Later, Bob took advantage of an early retirement from IBM and joined Continental Insurance Co. in the Princeton, NJ, area where they have resided for the past 26 years.

Ruth’s faith was extremely important to her. Her baptismal certificate was prevalently displayed as many people display their college diplomas. She had always been active in her church from the days of her youth and on, especially while her children were growing up, working in their gardens and planning and running events through the years.

Ruth was an extraordinary gardener, crafter, and baker. She applied all these skills to benefit her church in addition to her home. Her home gardens were the envy of the neighborhood.  She was also known for her parties with homemade everything and neighbors and church friends always looked forward to her annual super bowl party. In the winter months, gardening was replaced by Ruth’s crafting and during Kristin’s early years she would make her fancy lined dresses. She later expanded her crafting to make lovable stuffed animals and dolls which many kids of neighbors, friends, and relatives proudly displayed bearing the “Made by Ruth” name tag on them.

She performed an admiral job of raising two great children as a caring mother that lived for her children, later adding her three grandchildren to the list. In addition to being a loving wife and mother of two, she also loved her many dogs through the years, especially cocker spaniels and retrievers.

Ruth was also a very strong person and fighter, both in her faith and determination. She suffered a debilitating stroke 15 years ago that left her paralyzed on her entire left side and a poor prognosis. This stole from her those things she loved to do; the gardening, baking, and crafting. Following her stroke, her son was to be married in the coming nine months and she was determined to dance at his wedding. Through true grit, determination, her faith, and fighting spirit, she achieved that objective which doctors did not believe was possible.

Pre-deceased by her parents, William Christian Kenneweg and Meta Aschoff Kenneweg; siblings William Kenneweg (Red Hook, NY), Edward Kenneweg (Prescott, AZ), Doris Kenneweg Nichols (Norwalk, CT), and Howard Kenneweg (Brooklyn, NY); she is survived by her husband of 61 years, Robert Bruns (Belle Mead, NJ); children Kristin Bruns Chenworth (Geoffrey) of Schnecksville, PA, and Kirk Lars Bruns (Colleen) of Waitsfield, VT; and three grandchildren, Megan Chenworth (Chicago, IL), Andrew Chenworth (Northampton, PA), and Stephen Chenworth (Cleveland, OH).

A private funeral for immediate family was held August 4th at Christ the King Lutheran Church, in Kendall Park, NJ, with a private burial at Rocky Hill Cemetery, Rocky Hill, NJ.

Memorial contributions may be made to Guiding Eyes for the Blind in Yorktown Heights, NY, Christ the King Lutheran Church in Kendall Park, NY, or via random acts of kindness to others, as Ruth loved to do.

———

Cintra Carter Sander

December 19, 1929 – August 3, 2020

Cintra Carter Sander was born in Bryn Mawr, PA, on December 19, 1929.

She left Pennsylvania and moved to Princeton when she married Dr. Richard Huber, a PHD and noted scholar at Princeton University. Unlike many in her generation, Cintra went to college at the art school of Philadelphia, University of the Arts, and became a commercial illustrator. She went on to use her talent for years, illustrating artwork for over 52 Princeton charities and advertising agencies. She was most proud of her work at The Neuro Psychiatric Institute, where she taught the groundbreaking techniques of art therapy to patients.

Cintra’s name was always of interest. When asked, Cintra would reply that her name “Cintra” had been given to the eldest daughter in each generation of her family since 1843. Originating with the daughter of Israel P. Hutchinson, who was nominated to a diplomatic post in Portugal by President James Madison; Cintra Sander is the  fourth generation to carry on the tradition. Her granddaughter Cintra McGauley Sedalik is the sixth Cintra who recently got married in Sintra*, Portugal, at Monserrate Palace. (*spelling was changed in 1900.)

Cintra lived in Princeton for many decades until she moved to Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida, to be with her daughter Cintra H. McGauley and her late husband Lawrence P. McGauley, Esq., and her grandchildren. 

She settled into the lovely Florida sunshine for many years where she was a popular Marsh Landing resident and an active Garden Club leader. She was also a great participant in The Woman’s Club. 

Mrs. Sander is survived by her three children Cintra Huber McGauley and the late Lawrence P. McGauley Esq., Richard Miller Huber Jr. and Lucile Olson Huber, Casilda Carter Huber and Capt. Bill Campbell. She is also survived by her four grandchildren Cintra McGauley Sedalik, Gillan Richard McGauley, Richard Miller Huber III, and Alexandra Lucile Huber. 

Mrs. Sander is also survived by her beloved nephews Michael R. E. Carter, George W. Scudder, and stepson Whitney Sander.

The family will hold a celebration of Cintra’s life when it is safe to do so. Perhaps on her birthday, which is in December, because many friends will need to travel.