After inspiring Lou Gehrig's fight, Kenny Stork passes

By DOUGLAS BURNS
Staff Writer
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BREDA - Kenny Stork, a successful restaurateur who became a beloved presence as manager of the Carroll Municipal Golf Course, died Saturday following a community-inspiring fight with Lou Gehrig's disease.

He was 49.

Only days ago, Stork, who had worked at the course, running tournaments and handling daily duties in spite of the degenerative muscular disease, received a pay increase from the Carroll City Council based on the strong recommendation of Parks and Recreation director Jack Wardell, who said Stork remained an outstanding businessman until the end.

"Kenny, he's a wonderful individual, and he'll truly based be missed," Wardell said. "The golfers enjoyed his company. He did a great job business-wise, too. Knowing that he had this illness, Kenny still had a positive upbeat attitude."

Mr. Stork was diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig's disease, in November 2002. ALS eats away nerves and eventually leads to paralysis and death.

The average life expectancy is two to five years following diagnosis, but national ALS Association experts say there is really no way of knowing when the disease will claim one's life and that some people have had it for 15 to 20 years before dying. Other Lou Gehrig's victims die in less than two years.

Mr. Stork's first sign that he had the disease came when he couldn't cut his fingernails.

"Anything that comes second nature to you is missing with me," Kenny Stork said in an interview in early 2006 at his home in Breda, near the local swimming pool. "I started to notice some stuff in April or May, probably May of '02. And the doctors will tell you if you noticed it in May, you've probably had it for six months to a year before that."

In his final days, Stork, who passed at St. Anthony Regional Hospital, wore a mask on his face but was still able to communicate with family by pantomiming words with his foot on the bed.

Mr. Stork's daughter, Cortney Young of Memphis, Mo., said her father's optimism in the face of the horror that is Lou Gehrig's has taught their large family powerful life's lessons.

"I think it taught us not to give up because he didn't," Young said. "He worked as long as he could. The last day they closed the coolers he was out there."

Young, who along with her husband T.J., recently had identical twin girls, Zoe and Mya, said she kept in almost daily contact with her father in Breda over the Internet. Mr. Stork was able to use MSN Messenger until near the end of his life, she said.

Mr. Stork's wife of 24 years, Michelle, said the couple were set to celebrate that anniversary on Dec. 29.

Michelle Stork said she's already living to honor her husband, by maximizing each moment of life, with friends and family and in the workplace.

"Through my husband Ken I learned to live each day to the fullest and appreciate what I have," she said.

Added daughter Cortney, "He taught us about smiling and humor."

The Storks have established a memorial in lieu of flowers and plan as a family to remain active in the effort to find a cure for Lou Gehrig's.

"I would never want to watch someone go through this," Michelle Stork said. "I think the hardest thing was to see his muscles die - and his ability to control his hands."

Michelle assisted her husband with day-to-day activities in the last two years.

"It was hard for Ken," she said. "He never needed help with anything before."

But in those intimate moments, as she helped to feed and otherwise care for him, the Storks were able to have moments of reflection about a quarter century of shared experiences, and news about members of what has to be one of the largest extended families in western Iowa.

(For a list of survivors see Mr. Stork's obituary on Page 3 today.)

"I definitely did realize how much I did love him," Michelle (Warnke) Stork said.

A son of Matt H. and Marry Ann (Grabner) Stork, he was born June 12, 1959, at Carroll. He grew up in the Breda community and attended St. Bernard Catholic School. After his family moved to Carroll, he attended St. Lawrence School and then graduated from Kuemper High School in 1977.

After graduation in 1977, he entered the U.S. Air Force and was honorably discharged in January 1983, at the rank of sergeant.

Following his military service, he was employed at Pella Corp. in Carroll.

On Dec. 29, 1984, he married Michelle Warnke at St. Lawrence Church in Carroll. The couple moved to Breda in 1988, where Mr. Stork and his brother, Henry Stork, purchased Zeke's Place in Breda. They operated the business until 2002, when he became manager of the Carroll Municipal Golf Course, a position he held until his death.

More than 60 years ago, Lou Gehrig of the New York Yankees made ALS a household name by dying from it. The popular pinstriped athlete then bequeathed his name to the disease, giving it a visibility in fund-raising and political circles that has been crucial to what progress has been made.

"Lou Gehrig made the disease famous, but he can't do a lot for me," Kenny Stork joked to the Daily Times Herald at one point during the newspaper's coverage of his fight against the disease.

The Stork family says such a one-liner wasn't uncommon from Ken.

"He always made everybody laugh," Michelle Stork said. "Ken loved life so much. He loved our family. He just loved everything. He was a very, very happy person."

Carroll Mayor Jim Pedelty said that because Stork was such a well-liked, visible presence in the city, he raised awareness about ALS and had the collective goodwill of the Carroll area behind him.

"Everybody in the city lived through and prayed for Kenny during his battle," Pedelty said. "We all hoped for a miracle. He was an institution in this town and made the golf course a much friendlier place to be."

http://www.carrollspaper.com/main.as...66&TM=47203.51

Maranacook's No. 1 fan will be missed

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A GREAT FAN: Maranacook Community High School fan Peter Burbank was always encouraging athletes and students at the school with his customary phrase “Bears are awesome.” Burbank passed away last week. His life will be celebrated at 7 tonight at the Maranacook student center.

GARY HAWKINS 12/27/2008


Peter Burbank's name doesn't necessarily resonate with central Maine high school sports fans, but his persona does.

If you attended an event at Maranacook Community High School in the past several years, you probably saw him and undoubtedly heard him. Burbank was Maranacook's cheerleader, a middle-aged bespectacled gentleman who often carried a small megaphone.

His catch phrase for Maranacook students and athletes -- Bears Are Awesome -- reverberated throughout the playing fields, gymnasium and auditorium at the Readfield school.

Burbank died last week, succumbing to ALS, more commonly known as Lou Gehrig's Disease. He had retired a couple of years ago and moved to Orono. Fans immediately sensed something was missing from their field hockey, basketball, baseball and soccer games.

No Burbank.

"My kids started at Maranacook in the mid '90s," Doug Boyink said. "Peter was kind of a fixture at that point. I didn't really understand what his role was. The more I got to know him, the more I got to know how much an influence he was on kids' lives."

Burbank's life will be celebrated at 7 tonight at the Maranacook student center. Friends are welcome, and he had many.

His support for the students and the school extended well beyond cheering, but that was primarily how many fans came to know him. Visiting fans would sometimes show their annoyance at Burbank's booming cheers, but he never once cheered against an opponent.

It didn't matter what the score was either. The Awesome Bears could be behind by several points, runs or goals, or for that matter ahead. In Burbank's mind they were always awesome.

"He was a great ambassador," Superintendent Rich Abramson said. "He never had an ill word for anyone."

Burbank had no children, in fact he never married. But he had a family larger than anyone's. His original involvement with students came when someone invited him to read for grandparents day at Wayne Elementary School. He was asked back and his involvement blossomed.

"It became a remarkable thing," Boyink said.

Burbank followed that particular group of kids through middle school -- he cheered at those games as well -- and into high school. He took thousands of photos, giving them to the children or their parents.

His involvement grew and Burbank spearheaded an all-sports boosters club, the first at Maranacook. It was appropriately named the Awesome Bears Society and has raised thousands of dollars for school projects, on and off the playing fields.

His greatest gift was the one he gave to the kids themselves, one of interest and self-esteem.

"By the time they graduated, he knew every kid by his first name and knew something about their family," Boyink said. "It was his family and his life."

Students dedicated a yearbook to Burbank a couple of years ago. And a student recently approached the school about naming the gymnasium in Burbank's honor. They could just as well name a room where the math team or speech and debate teams competed because Burbank was there for those events, too.

In one of his last appearances in the school gym, Burbank announced starting lineups for both teams, as he often did, prefacing his introduction of the Maranacook players by booming, "Now it's my high honor and great privilege to introduce the awesome Black Bears."

Later in the game, he went in front of the student section and started pantomiming letters as he yelled out, "Give me a B!"

The kids loved it and so did the adults.

"He was just one of those wonderful positive human beings who could take a kid who wasn't feeling great about himself and make him feel good," Boyink said.

Gary Hawkins -- 621-5638

ghawkins@centralmaine.com

http://morningsentinel.mainetoday.co...s/5753860.html

Charles R. Anderson


Charles R. Anderson, age 67 passed away peacefully on Friday afternoon December 26, 2008 at Aurora Medical Center with his family by his side. He was born March 8, 1941 in Dodgeville, WI in Iowa County, the son of the late Harold E. and Luetta E. (Hitchcock) Anderson. On January 12, 1963 he was united in marriage to Judy A. Nitz.

He was in the United States Navy as well as a retiree of Rockwell International after 30 years. Upon his retirement he snowplowed and performed yard work for several residents in the area. He also delivered The Northwestern to residents in the Larsen, Butte des Morts, Winneconne and Wichester areas. He was a member of the Oshkosh Elks Club as well as Ducks Unlimited. He was an avid bowler, hunter and fisherman. He loved gardening of both vegetables and flowers. His grandchildren's sports and activities fulfilled his days.

He will be sorrowfully missed by his wife Judy Anderson of Oshkosh, four daughters, Linda Davis of Berlin, Carla Anderson (Troy Lind), Julie (Bruce) Gutsmiedl and Marsha (Ron) O'Bright of Oshkosh, nine grandchildren, Sean Davis (fiance' Nikki Smith), Jennifer Davis (fiance' John Bretzel), Aaron Davis, Garet and Sean Anderson-Lind, Kayla and Carissa Gutsmiedl, and Stefanie and Tiffany O'Bright. Two great grandchildren, Korbin Smith and Skylar Davis, three sisters Carol (Dallas) Vandermuse of Green Bay, Susan Nafzger of Appleton and Judy Nafzger of Fond du Lac as well as extended family and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents.

A commemorative service will be held at noon on Tuesday December 30, 2008 at St. John's Lutheran Church, 808 N. Main St. in Oshkosh with Pastor Ted Johanson officiating. Visitation will be held prior to the service at the church from 10 a.m. until the hour of service.

In Lieu of flowers please direct memorials to the ALS Association Wisconsin Chapter (Lou Gehrig's) and to the American Diabetes Association have been established.

Gone Away An Angel whispered take my hand and come with me your work here is done. I went away to a place where there are no tears, nor sorrow only laughter and smiles, there will always be a tomorrow. As I move amongst the clouds, I'll look down and smile upon you while the angels sing a heavenly song. I am not alone All who went before are here They awaited my arrival. I know you'll grieve and wish I was still here I am here in memories you hold dear. Remember how much I love you and know I took your love with me. I did not wish for you to cry, nor feel sad. My pain is gone and I am free! Soon you'll come to me. Until then, God will be with you just as He's with me.

Fiss & Bills

Funeral Home

865 S. Westhaven Drive

920-235-1170

www.FissBillsPoklasny.

com

SHERRYLEE PETRIL, 62
Brody's Furniture executive
December 30, 2008

Sherrylee (Brody) Petril, 62, of Margate succumbed to ALS (Lou Gehrig's disease) on Sunday, Dec. 28, 2008, after a long and courageous battle.
Sherry was born Dec. 10, 1946, in Vineland, and was educated in the public school system in Vineland. She attended college at the Rhode Island School of Design. After finishing her education, Sherry taught students with advance skills at the Ellison School. In 1969, she joined her family furniture business, Brody's Furniture, as an interior designer and staff manager. She became vice president of the company and ran the business with her mother and father, Lois and Sidney Brody. Under her watch, Brody's Furniture was considered one of the finest furniture stores in the Delaware Valley.

In the early 1970s, Sherry was the president of the New Jersey Chapter of the Interior Design Society and was very helpful in the growth of the chapter. Sherry was a member of the board of directors of the Tri State Home Furnishings Association, based out of Philadelphia. She worked very hard in starting a charitable fund for the March of Dimes, among other charities that shehelped to benefit. Sherry has received manyawards during her career, from theTri State Home Furnishings Association as well as the Interior Design Society. Sherrywas a member of the board of directors ofthe Bay Atlantic Symphony Orchestra for the past several years. She was also a sailing enthusiast. At one time in 1962,Sherry was the Mid-Atlantic Sailing Champion, representing the Greater Wildwood Yacht Club.

Sherrylee is survivedby her husband, Robert (Bob) Petril of Margate; her three children, Tracey Shannon and husband Michael of Marlton, Susan Petril ofNaples, Fla., and Robert Petril Jr. and wife Mina of Hong Kong; her most beloved granddaughter, Adriana Shannon; and her grandson, Marco Petril. Sherrylee is also survived by her father, Sidney Brody and wife Lucette of Vineland; her brother, Melvin S. Brody of Vineland; aunt, Carmen Brody of Williams Island, Fla.; cousins, Richard and Linda Weber of Vineland; and also byseveral nieces, nephews, and many cousins.

A funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. Friday at the Wainwright-Bernhardt Funeral Home, 1024 E. Landis Ave.,Vineland, with the Rabbi Alfredo Winter officiating. Family and friends may call from 9 to 11 a.m. at the funeral home. Interment will follow at Siloam Cemetery, 550 N. Valley Ave., Vineland.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations in Sherrylee's name to ALS Association, 321 Norristown Road, Suite 260, Ambler, PA 19002.

Written condolences to the family may be e-mailed to wbfuneralhome@ comcast.net.

Arrangements are entrusted to Wainwright-Bernhardt Funeral Home of Vineland.

http://www.thedailyjournal.com/artic...RIES/812300322

Forres mourns Highland Games stalwart
Published: 31 December, 2008
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Grant Dawson


TRIBUTES were paid last week to Forres man Grant Dawson, a long-serving member of the Forres Highland Games committee who was also involved with various clubs and groups around the town.


Mr Dawson, who was aged 74, died at his home at Forbes Road last Friday evening (December 19) with his wife, Margaret, by his side, following a battle with Motor Neurone disease.

Eldest son Neil said his father had suffered from a particularly virulent strain of the disease which had taken its toll quickly over the last few months, leaving him struggling with his speech and physical capabilities, but despite being the source of extreme frustration, it did not prevent him from doing the things he wanted to.

Prior to retirement, Mr Dawson ran a barber's business in the town for many years, in premises on Forres High Street above the current Indian takeaway.

However, he was better known for his involvement in various sporting organisations. Mr Dawson had been a keen golfer and cyclist, and was a member of Forres Cycling Club for 30 years. His passion for cycling saw him reintroduce the 'Messenger Boys' Bike Race' to the Forres Highland Games about four years ago, an event which has gone from strength to strength.

Earlier this year, he arranged the purchase of several bikes from the family of the late Sammy Fraser from Elgin, who kept dozens of them, and arranged to have them sponsored and painted up with the names of local businesses.

Former games chieftain and current president, Kenny MacDonald, said that Mr Dawson was a keep-fit fanatic and was always out walking or cycling, and did a lot of good over the years for the Forres games. He also competed in cycling events in his younger days.

"He was games treasurer for at least 25 years, and involved for many years before that, joining the committee back in 1961," he said. "He did a lot of other work for the games; he was always available to help."

He said that he was an excellent treasurer, and would be sorely missed. He said he always had the paperwork at the ready, and could answer any questions about the group's finances.

Although Mr Dawson gave up the post of treasurer earlier this year, due to his ill health, he remained involved, and just a few weeks ago he attended a committee meeting at the Carisbrooke Hotel, and even went shopping for spares for the messenger bikes, which will be back in action at the 2009 event.

Highland Games colleague, Mike Scott, said that Mr Dawson would be sorely missed and had been a person you could always rely on.

"If you needed something doing, he would do it," said Mike. "If he couldn't, he would know someone he could get to do it instead."

Mr Dawson was also a keen supporter of Forres Mechanics Football Club, and enjoyed attending matches right up until a few weeks before his death. He had been asked to serve on the committee, but was unable to, due to his commitments with other local sporting groups. He was also a keen member of the caravaning fraternity, and used to go away at weekends, especially to watch golf tournaments around the country.

Mr Dawson is survived by his wife, Margaret, and their three children: sons Neil and Ian and daughter Mhairi, and five grandchildren, as well as by a sister, Moira.

His funeral was held on Christmas Eve in St Laurence Parish Church. Contributions were made to local charities.

http://www.forres-gazette.co.uk/news..._stalwart.html

Roger Albert Hoilman

Bakersville - Roger Albert Hoilman, 57, of Old Hughes Gap Road, Bakersville, passed away Tuesday, December 30, 2008, at his home. He was a truck driver with McClure Construction Company in Spruce Pine. He was a member of Mine Creek Baptist Church and attended Roans Chapel Freewill Baptist Church. He was a member and past master of Bakersville Masonic Lodge #357 AF&AM, and a member of The Mountaineer Shrine Club and also a member of Order of Eastern Star Chapter 29.

Survivors include his father, Horace Hoilman of Bakersville; wife, Katherine B. Hoilman of the home; daughter, Penny H. Brinkley and husband, Nathan, also of Bakersville; one grandchild, Bailey Brinkley.

The funeral service will be held 8 p.m. Wednesday, December 31, in the chapel of Henline Hughes Funeral Home, with Paul Ault, Lester Perkins, and J. C. Sheets officiating. The family will receive friends two hours prior to the service. Interment will be at 2 p.m. Thursday, January 1, at Campbell Cemetery, with Bakersville Masonic Lodge conducting Masonic Rites and serving as Pallbearers.

Memorials may be made to Shriners Hospital For Children 950 West Faris Rd Greeneville, SC 29605.

Henline Hughes Funeral Home is assisting the Hoilman family. Condolences:

Phone (828) 688-4813, Fax (828) 688-3187, Email info@henline-hughes.com

Gloria Jean Garcia (1959-2008)
January 1, 2009

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Gloria Jean Garcia, 49 of Windsor, passed away peacefully December 25, 2008.
Gloria was diagnosed with ALS in December 2007. She received a tremendous amount of support from family and friends.

Gloria was born in Longmont to Jennie E. (Abeyta) and Joe B. Garcia on March 8, 1959.
Gloria lived with her husband and youngest daughter in Windsor. She was a CNA for 14 years and worked at the local nursing home in Windsor. She also worked for Eastman Kodak for six years as an Operator, and spent the last 10 years as a home keeper.

Gloria is survived by husband of 35 years Anthony J. Aragon; daughters Angela Aragon and AnaMaria Aragon; grandsons Isaac Aragon and Marquis Aragon; son-in-law Fernando Medina; mother Jennie E. Garcia, four sisters, and two brothers.

Recitation of rosary at 9:30 a.m. with Mass of Christian burial at 10 a.m. Wednesday at Our Lady of the Valley, 1250 7th St., Windsor.

Burial will be at Foothills Garden of Memory in Longmont, off of U.S. Highway 287. Viewing from 4-7 p.m. Tuesday at Viegut Funeral Home, 1616 N. Lincoln Ave., Loveland.

Gloria will be missed dearly and she will always be known as “our guardian angel.”

http://www.coloradoan.com/article/20...N1006/81230027

CRICKET: Pathfinder Ken Timms dies



Published Date: 31 December 2008
POPULAR local bowler and cricketer Ken Timms died aged 75 on Christmas Eve.
Ken, who died three months after being diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease, played cricket for Pathfinder from the 1950s until the 1980s, and was a successful bowler for Tarring Priory and West Sussex Tourists.

With Priory, Ken reached the Nation


al Fours quarter-finals, twice won the Sussex Fours title with Chris Rolph, Keith Renwick and Eric Farrell, and lifted numerous club titles.

West Sussex Bowls Touring Club president Cecil Wadey said: "Ken was a highly-respected member of West Sussex Bowls Touring Club.

"He worked tirelessly on behalf of the club and served on the committee for many years.

"He was our captain for two years in 1997 and 1998, and was elected president in 2002 and served in this office for the next three years.

"He also toured on 18 occasions on behalf of the club.

"Ken was an excellent member and will be sorely missed.

"As president, I would like to pass on the club's deep-felt sympathies to his wife, Joan, and his family."

Ken was also a member of Sussex County Cricket Club, and regularly went to games with his wife, Joan, whom he met through cricket as Joan's brother, Brian Dumigan, also played for Pathfinder.

His sons, Ian and Paul, both play cricket for Worthing Foresters, along with Ken's grandsons, Ben and Joe.

The funeral will take place on January 16 at Worthing Crematorium at 2.20pm. All donations to go to the Sussex Young Cricketers Educational Trust, which helps youth development.

http://www.littlehamptongazette.co.u...ies.4836154.jp

Nicholas Salvatore Scandone
Champion
March 3, 1966-January 2, 2009



US Sailing Gold Medallist Nick Scandone - Sharing the Good
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'An elated Nick Scandone arrives home' Lynn Fitzpatrick Click Here to view large photo
He woke up, looked at his wife, Mary Kate, took his oxygen mask off, gave her a kiss and told her that he loved her. He put the oxygen mask back on and passed away.

Nick Scandone was clear and deliberate about a lot of things and one of them was that he did not want to be remembered for his declining state of health.

He wanted to be remembered for his accomplishments throughout his life. His last moments, however, sum it all up. Nick always seemed to do the right thing, especially when it came to family and friends.

For years he focused on a Gold Medal. It kept him alive. It gave many of us, especally his supporters at Balboa Yacht Club, a champion. Mary Kate was always his number one admirer and was with him through thick and thin.

Two of his most ardent supporters, his mother, who introduced him to sailing, and his sister passed away before seeing Nick achieve his dream. His bonds with his father and his brother, flourished as his physical state weakened and his resolve grew.

Nick's extended family expanded to a worldwide community of sailors and people who recognized him as a hero, a champion in life who looked death in the face everyday for six and a half years.

Before Nick left for the Paralympics he said that he was looking forward to returning home to peace and quiet and sharing his medal with his friend and family 'because in the end, they are what is important.'

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Gold medallist in the SKUD18 Maureen McKinnon-Tucker and Nick Scandone of USA celebrate - 2008 Paralympics - Qingdao - Sailing2008.com
His band of family, friends and coaches trailed his 500-pound wheelchair around the Olympic Village in Qingdao, China this summer and all of the other SKUD 18's , followed Nick and Maureen McKinnon Tucker around the race course.

Each day the duo distanced themselves from the rest of the fleet, mathematically winning the Gold Medal without needing to sail the last two races of the 2008 Paralympic Sailing Regatta.

Everyone routed for Nick; even his competitors. Unprecedented at any Medal Ceremony, all six SKUD 18 Medalists clasped hands and accepted applause from the crowd in unison.

Nick shared the ups with all and sheltered us from the downs. Nick Scandone did just what he set his mind to do. He won the Gold. He shared his victory with friends, family and the rest of the world. He, Mary Kate, Vince (his brother) and Mike Pinckney (his coach) returned to Newport Beach, CA to a hero's welcome at the airport and at Balboa Yacht Club. Everywhere Nick went, whether it was to a Ducks hockey game, a UCI alumni even a sailing clinic - he was an inspiration and he shared his winning ways.

http://sail-world.com/photos/Alt_Sca...0Spinnaker.jpg
Nick Scandone and Maureen Mckinnon-Tucker on their way to winning a Gold medal in Qingdao - Lynn Fitzpatrick Click Here to view large photo



Nick Scandone

1988 Sabot National Champion
1988 Collegiate Nation Champion (UCI)
1988 Collegiat All American
1991 470 North American Champion
2004 Independence Cup Champion
2005 Independence Cup Champion
2005 2.4 Meter World Champion (Open Class)
2005 Rolex Yachtsman of the Year
2007 IFDS World Champion - SKUD 18
2008 Paralympic Gold Medalist - SKUD 18
2008 US Sailing Yachtsman of the Year Nominee

A friend, a sailor, an inspiration, a winner and a tremendous loss to all.

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Nick Scandone and Maureen Mckinnon-Tucker after winning the Gold medla in the SKUD 18 class - 2008 Paralympics, Qingdao - Dan Tucker Click Here to view large photo

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Paralympic Gold Medallist Nick SCANDONE Loses Battle With ALS

US SAILING News


US Paralympic gold medallist Nick SCANDONE, 42, passed away Friday, after a long battle with ALS, also commonly called Lou Gehrig's Disease, a debilitating neurodegenerative disease that affects the nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord.
Nick SCANDONE won a coveted gold medal with teammate Maureen MCKINNON-TUCKER (USA) in the Two-Person Keelboat - SKUD18 event at the 2008 Paralympic Sailing Competition in Qingdao, China, this past summer.

“The sport of sailing has lost a great competitor and the most inspirational person most of us will ever know,” said Dean BRENNER, Chairman of US SAILING’s Olympic Sailing Program. “Words can’t describe the pride so many people felt watching Nick take the last few steps towards his dream in China last summer. He was a gold medallist on and off the water, and we’ll miss him dearly.”

SCANDONE beat the odds of his disease by not only being strong enough to compete at the 2008 Paralympic Games, but by winning the gold medal a day early, with two races left to go. “It’s been such a long road to get [to the 2008 Games],” said SCANDONE after he won. “It’s emotionally overwhelming for me to finally realize my goal.”
There were countless days filled with doubt, exhaustion and adversity, but he and MCKINNON-TUCKER met each challenge with incredible strength and determination. SCANDONE was a US Sailing Team AlphaGraphics member, named US SAILING’s 2008 Sportsman of the Year, nominated for US SAILING’s 2008 Rolex Yachtsman and Yachtsman of the Year award and winner of US SAILING’s 2005 Rolex Yachtsman of the Year Award.

For more information and background on Nick SCANDONE, please click here read his bio on the US SAILING website.

http://www.sailing.org/26602.php

Auto racing world loses a local legend in Dan Ryan

The Elko Speedway Hall of Fame member was robbed of his mobility by ALS, but he never lost his spirit -- or his enthusiasm for auto racing.

By DAVID LA VAQUE, dlavaque @ startribune.com

Last update: January 2, 2009 - 9:18 PM
[IMG]http://img142.imageshack.us/img142/5...103mainqq4.jpg[/IMG]

Dan Ryan's eyes never betrayed him, even as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) robbed him of mobility and limited his breathing.

"He could still give you that nasty stare," said Alison Gilbertson, Dan's daughter.

Ryan, 48, an automobile racing enthusiast and member of the Elko Speedway Hall of Fame, died Friday of complications from ALS. He is survived by wife Lisa and their children Alison, Jake and Dan Jr.

The 2000s marked Ryan's fourth decade of both attending and participating in events at Elko Speedway, dubbed his "Family Vacation Home." He began racing Thunder Cars in 1991 and progressed through the local circuit.

Upon his retirement in 2003, he used his knowledge to help sons Jake and Patrick reach new heights in their racing careers. Racing for DPR Motorsports, Jake was named the 2004 Super Late Model Rookie of the Year while Dan Jr. won the 2008 Thunder Car season championship.

Not long after being diagnosed with ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig's Disease, in December 2005, Dan Sr. depended on a motorized scooter to get around Elko Speedway as fulfill his duties as head of the DPR Motorsports team. ALS is a fatal neurological condition caused by the degeneration of nerve cells that control voluntary muscle movement.

On cold nights last racing season, he sat in a van parked where he could see the track and watch his sons compete. And he became more dependent on a breathing apparatus.

"The hardest thing about ALS is that Dad's mind and spirit were still the same, he just couldn't move," Gilbertson said. "At our family's New Year's Eve party he was talking to one of my brother's friends about racing."

Ryan was inducted into the Elko Speedway Hall of Fame on May 17, the latest in a string of life accomplishments. He was named homecoming king at Rosemount High School in 1978. His brother, Marc, said Dan was "a self-taught master plumber at age 22."

Dan's father, John, helped start Genz-Ryan, a local heating, plumbing and cooling company in 1950.

Gilbertson, with the help of friends and family, founded "A Race Worth Winning," a nonprofit organization seeking to educate the public about ALS while raising money for ALS-related causes. The organization raised $40,000 last year.

"He touched so many people through racing," Gilbertson said. "There were about 50 people in a 12-by-12 hospital room with him at the end."



http://www.startribune.com/sports/mo...L7PQLanchO7DiU

Falish, Mr. Gerald "Jerry" G.
Print this page E-mail this article Mr. Gerald "Jerry" G. Falish, 55, Dyckesville died Thursday, Jan. 1, 2009, at his home as a result of Lou Gehrig's disease. He was born March 15, 1953, in Kewaunee County, to the late Clarence and Lucille E. (Nellis) Falish. On July 29, 1972, Jerry married Paula M. Gronnert at St. Louis Church, Dyckesville. He was a loyal employee at Vans Lumber, Dyckesville for 36 years. He was an avid hunter, fisherman and gardener. His ice shanty was his second home. He was the best EVER jerky maker and venison connoisseur. He loved going up north with friends, golfing at Green Acres and in Suring, trout fishing and campfires with family and friends. He was also quick to offer a cocktail to any visitor.

Survivors include his wife of 36 years, Paula; and their three children, Traci (Scott) Haen, Freedom; Kari (Craig) Barrett, Luxemburg; Jeff (Kortney) Falish, Dyckesville; five grandchildren, Hailey and Hunter Haen, Megan and Devin Barrett and Colton Falish; three brothers, Clarence Jr. (Gen) Falish, Green Bay; Fran (Rita) Falish, Jim (Sue) Falish, all of Dyckesville; four sisters, Darlene (Norbert) Rabas, Dyckesville; Mary (Rich) Thompson, Kewaunee; Pearl (Dan) Vandenack, Green Bay; Lisa (Ken) Socha, Dyckesville; his mother-in-law, Bernice Gronnert, Green Bay; brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, Wane (Lou) Gronnert, Bellevue; Jake (special friend, Faye), Suring; Joan Gronnert (special friend, Max), Illinois; Mary (Hank) Gronnert-Kollross, Bellevue; many nieces and nephews; and special friends, Lylas and Frito (two of the three Amigo's) ... and Lee!

Jerry was preceded in death by his parents, Lucy and Clarence Falish; three sisters, Jean, Caroline and Joanne Falish; his paternal grandparents, Minnie and John Falish; his maternal grandparents, Elsie and John Nellis; his father-in-law, Roderick (Jeff) Gronnert; two brothers-in-law, Jerry "Weasel" Gronnert and Raymond DeGrave.

Friends may call at the McMAHON FUNERAL HOME, LUXEMBURG, 2 to 6 p.m., Tuesday, Jan. 6, 2009, for a Memorial Service. Closing family memories at 6 p.m. until 6:15 p.m. Tuesday.

The Falish Family would like to extend a note of thanks to Doctors Kroll and Santillion, MacDonald and James, the Bellin Medical Unit 4th floor, The Luxemburg Rescue Squad, Van's Lumber/employees, and Sue and Jim Falish for care and concern offered to us.

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Ronald Lee Sertich
Print this page E-mail this article Ronald Lee Sertich, age 76, passed away Saturday morning, December 27, 2008 at the Western Arizona Regional Medical Center in Bullhead City after his fight with ALS (Lou Gehrig's disease).

Ronnie was born on July 2, 1932 in Sheboygan, Wis. to John and Lorena Sertich, along with four brothers and two sisters.

He graduated in 1951 from Sheboygan Central High School and proudly served in the U.S. Army in Korea from 1953 to 1955.

Ronnie was married to his best friend, Carol Baehr, Jan. 12, 1957 and raised three sons, Rick, Tom and Todd.

They lived in Sheboygan and Howards Grove, Wis. near his parents and siblings Ruth (Bill) Zschetzsche, Bob (Linda) Sertich and Mike (Donna) Sertich until 1971 when they followed his brothers John (Shirley) and **** (Norma) to Tucson, Ariz.

For 25 years, he and Carol worked, raised their boys and made numerous friends in Tucson, and he helped to reopen the Rillito Racetrack in 1988.

Retirement brought a move for the couple to Bullhead City in 1996. Road trips to "see the kids", volunteering for 9 years at St. Vincent de Paul in Bullhead City, projects in his shop or to help others, and trips across the river kept the couple busy.

Ronnie is survived by his loving wife Carol, three sons, Richard (Robin), Thomas (Laurie) and Todd (Sydni); four grandkids, Carrie (James) Douglas, Allison, James and Moose Racing #92 sprint car; and great-grandkids, Christopher and Faith; plus numerous family and friends whose lives he touched and changed.

We'll miss you, Papa Moose.

A private military service will be held at Evergreen in Tucson, Ariz.

In lieu of flowers, a donation in Ron's name to St. Vincent de Paul Society 781 Marina Blvd. Bullhead City, AZ 86442 would be greatly appreciated.

Arrangements by Desert Lawn Funeral Home.

The Sheboygan Press

January 4, 2009

[IMG]http://img145.imageshack.us/img145/7725/jerryon7.jpg[/IMG]
Mr. Gerald "Jerry" G. Falish, 55, Dyckesville died Thursday, Jan. 1, 2009, at his home as a result of Lou Gehrig's disease. He was born March 15, 1953, in Kewaunee County, to the late Clarence and Lucille E. (Nellis) Falish. On July 29, 1972, Jerry married Paula M. Gronnert at St. Louis Church, Dyckesville. He was a loyal employee at Vans Lumber, Dyckesville for 36 years. He was an avid hunter, fisherman and gardener. His ice shanty was his second home. He was the best EVER jerky maker and venison connoisseur. He loved going up north with friends, golfing at Green Acres and in Suring, trout fishing and campfires with family and friends. He was also quick to offer a cocktail to any visitor.

Survivors include his wife of 36 years, Paula; and their three children, Traci (Scott) Haen, Freedom; Kari (Craig) Barrett, Luxemburg; Jeff (Kortney) Falish, Dyckesville; five grandchildren, Hailey and Hunter Haen, Megan and Devin Barrett and Colton Falish; three brothers, Clarence Jr. (Gen) Falish, Green Bay; Fran (Rita) Falish, Jim (Sue) Falish, all of Dyckesville; four sisters, Darlene (Norbert) Rabas, Dyckesville; Mary (Rich) Thompson, Kewaunee; Pearl (Dan) Vandenack, Green Bay; Lisa (Ken) Socha, Dyckesville; his mother-in-law, Bernice Gronnert, Green Bay; brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, Wane (Lou) Gronnert, Bellevue; Jake (special friend, Faye), Suring; Joan Gronnert (special friend, Max), Illinois; Mary (Hank) Gronnert-Kollross, Bellevue; many nieces and nephews; and special friends, Lylas and Frito (two of the three Amigo's) ... and Lee!

Jerry was preceded in death by his parents, Lucy and Clarence Falish; three sisters, Jean, Caroline and Joanne Falish; his paternal grandparents, Minnie and John Falish; his maternal grandparents, Elsie and John Nellis; his father-in-law, Roderick (Jeff) Gronnert; two brothers-in-law, Jerry "Weasel" Gronnert and Raymond DeGrave.

Friends may call at the McMAHON FUNERAL HOME, LUXEMBURG, 2 to 6 p.m., Tuesday, Jan. 6, 2009, for a Memorial Service. Closing family memories at 6 p.m. until 6:15 p.m. Tuesday.

The Falish Family would like to extend a note of thanks to Doctors Kroll and Santillion, MacDonald and James, the Bellin Medical Unit 4th floor, The Luxemburg Rescue Squad, Van's Lumber/employees, and Sue and Jim Falish for care and concern offered to us.[/QUOTE]

Robert A. Martin
January 6, 2009


Age 72, of Brighton, Michigan and formerly of Northville, passed away on Saturday, January 3, 2009. Bob was diagnosed with Lou Gehrig's disease (ALS) in January 2008. During his retirement, Bob spent most of his time with his wife, family and friends, doing what he liked best — cycling, golfing, playing tennis, and traveling. Their condo on Hilton Head Island was a frequent destination - which fit well with those interests. He was born December 7, 1936 in Ecorse, Michigan to Joe and Mary Martin. He grew up in Wyandotte and Southgate graduating from Our Lady of Mount Carmel (1954) and the University of Detroit. Bob resided for 32 years in Northville, Michigan. A mechanical engineer, he retired in 1996 after working for more than 30 years with Ford Motor Company in Dearborn. He enjoyed traveling, tennis, golf and biking with his loving wife of 46 years, Dorothy Tarnowski. Bob had been a member of The Knights of Columbus and the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE). He attended Our Lady of Victory Church in Northville prior to moving to Brighton. He and his wife most recently attended St. Patrick's Catholic Church in Brighton. Bob is survived by his wife Dorothy, his daughter Cindy and son-in-law Dave Dean, his three sons, son David and daughter-in-law Liz, son Rob and daughter-in-law Laura, and son Doug Martin. Bob and Dorothy have three grandchildren, Branden and Trevor Dean and Ian Martin. He is also survived by his brother Alfred of Saline and his sister Marian of Flat Rock. Visitation will be Tuesday, January 6 from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the Herrmann Funeral Home located at 600 E. Main Street in Brighton, Michigan. Phone: (810) 229-2905. A funeral mass and lunch will be held Wednesday at 10:30 a.m. at St. Patrick's Church located at 711 Rickett Road in Brighton. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to ALS Foundation (www.alsa.org) or the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (www.jdrf.org).

Boots made customers feel at home
Wednesday, January 07, 2009
By STEVE DOYLE
Times Staff Writer steve.doyle@htimes.com
Ex-Tide player ran popular restaurant in city for 34 years

At about age 3, Alvie Ewen Ellett got a new pair of boots for Christmas.

The shoes made such an impression that the Owens Cross Roads boy refused to take them off. Not for baths. Not at bedtime.

Naturally, Ellett's parents nicknamed him Boots.

The single-syllable moniker served him well through his football-playing days at the University of Alabama and, later, as owner of one of Huntsville's finest dining spots, Boots' Restaurant on South Memorial Parkway. Specializing in prime rib and cheeseburgers, the eatery was a Rocket City fixture from 1961 until 1995.

"It was like Cheers," former Times food editor Mickey Ellis said Tuesday. "Everybody knew your name, and everybody knew Boots. It was just the place to go."

Ellett died Dec. 30, just two months after being diagnosed with Lou Gehrig's disease. He was 74.

He is survived by his wife, Joyce; son, Boots Ellett Jr.; daughter, Lynne Ellett; sisters, June Montgomery and Carline Kessel; and three grandchildren.

The oldest of three children born to Carl and Pauline Drake Ellett, Boots grew big - really big - working at his family's country store in Owens Cross Roads. By his senior year at Huntsville High, Ellett was an imposing 6-foot-2. He starred on the Panthers' offensive line and caught the eye of then-Alabama football coach Harold "Red" Drew.

Ellett arrived in Tuscaloosa in 1952, the same year as Bart Starr, and spent four years keeping the future NFL Hall of Famer safe from would-be tacklers.

In 1956, Ellett was drafted twice - by the Philadelphia Eagles and the Army. The Army won out, but he later resurrected his football career with the British Columbia Lions of the Canadian Football League.

Ambitious and hardworking, Ellett returned to Huntsville around 1960 with plans to open a clothing store. A local shop owner who didn't want the added competition convinced him to start a restaurant instead.

So began a Huntsville institution. Boots' Restaurant had a little of everything: tender prime rib and white tablecloths, but also three-napkin cheeseburgers and a lively bar.

Ellett, always dapper in a dark suit, greeted every customer personally. He committed people's names, favorite entrees and favorite drinks to memory.

"Dad was a workaholic," Ellett's son said Tuesday. "His dream was to be a successful businessman, and the only way he knew how to do anything was to pour his heart and soul into it. He used to always say that restaurants go in cycles, but business will come back around if you're consistent and predictable and don't try anything gimmick-wise."

He was right: Boots' restaurant survived 34 years and in the process became a beloved Huntsville gathering spot, the place to go before proms, after high school football games, for first dates and anniversary dinners.

"There weren't many chain restaurants in Huntsville then, so that's where you went for a spiffy meal," said Ellis, the food writer. "When I think of being young and having fun, I think of Boots'."

Ellett wasn't the type to boast about his Crimson Tide past, but customers knew. Auburn fans teased the gentle giant relentlessly after Iron Bowl victories, his daughter said, then celebrated with a nice meal.

"Dad used to say, 'I always want Alabama to win, but I make a lot of money when Auburn wins,'" she said.

In 1995, Ellett decided to call it a career. He went out in style, his son said, by inviting his most loyal customers for an open-bar bash.

"They had one hell of a party," said Ellett Jr., 37. "They opened up the bar and the cooler and said, 'It's all paid for, have at it.'"

A Hertz rental car office now occupies the former restaurant.

Huntsville Mayor Tommy Battle said he and Ellett were "kindred spirits" in the restaurant industry. From 1980-89, Battle ran Britlings Buffet at the corner of Memorial Parkway and Governors Drive, a short walk from Boots'.

"Many nights we'd close up and run over to Boots'," he said Tuesday. "Boots always had a kind word and was someone you felt like you could talk to. I think the whole essence of the place was Boots.

"He was just such a big, likable guy."

http://www.al.com/news/huntsvilletim...050.xml&coll=1

Darla Dean Endsley
January 8, 2009
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OSTRANDER - Darla Dean Endsley, age 62 of Ostrander died Tuesday, January 6, 2009 at Grady Memorial Hospital, Delaware after a 9-year battle with Lou Gehrig's Disease.

She was born November 13, 1946 on Fort George E. Meade Base in Baltimore, MD to the late Elmer Hershel and Peggy Glendora (Brooks) King.
She was a Food Coordinator for the State of Ohio Scioto River View Complex for 20 years. She was a member of the Raymond Church of Christ and she enjoyed crocheting and dancing.

She is survived by her husband, John Thomas of Ostrander.

She is also survived by a daughter, Angela (Larry) Betts, Ostrander; a son, John Thomas III, Ostrander; four grandchildren, Brienna Thomas, Matthew Dean Hedrick, Benjamin Obenour, Dennis Davenport III; a brother, Chuck (Barb) Foor, North Lewisburg; and a special friend, Amy "Elmer" McClary, Gahanna.

Private family services will be held at a later date. The family is being assisted by the Stofcheck-Ballinger Funeral Home, Richwood.

Memorial gifts may be made to ALS Association, 1170 Old Henderson Road Suite 221, Columbus, OH 43220

Condolences and remembrances may be expressed at www.stofcheck-ballingerfuneralhome.com.

A Charter School Leader Passes On




A sad bit of education news: Brian Bennett, a longtime San Diegan and a luminary in the charter school movement, passed on over the winter holidays. The Union Tribune wrote this feature on his work and impact a while ago:



In Bennett's four decades in San Diego, he has touched countless lives as principal of Blessed Sacrament School, as chairman of the city's Human Relations Commission, and as a force behind the birth of more than a dozen public charter schools in the United States.

Bennett once led the Office of School Choice at San Diego Unified under former Superintendent Alan Bersin, and left shortly after Carl Cohn took over the school district. He was diagnosed more than two years ago with ALS, more commonly known as Lou Gehrig's Disease. I never got to know him -- he had already left San Diego Unified when I started working here -- but I frequently heard him invoked as an expert on charter schools and someone I should be talking to. I wish I had talked to him more.



-- EMILY ALPERT
http://www.voiceofsandiego.org/artic...nett010709.txt

Stocktaking pioneer David Venner dies
By Ewan Turney
09/01/2009 11:40

David Venner, one of the early pioneers of computerised stocktaking within the company that still bears his name, has passed away aged 76.


David joined Venners after completing his National Service in the RAF and was promoted to the board of directors in 1955.

In 1961, along with his brother Michael, he assumed a joint managing directors position, which he held until his early retirement from the business in 1985.

David helped to create modern stocktaking methods and was amongst the first to spot that stocktaking was a trade that lent itself to modern computerisation.

He also played an active role in negotiations when the business was sold to Christie + Co in 1984.

In recent years ill health had forced David to move closer to his family in Devon where he succumbed to Motor Neuron Disease on 6 January.

Trevor Heyburn, Venners current managing director, said: “All of us at Venners are deeply saddened by David’s death, although he had not been actively involved for many years we still felt his overriding presence and still, to this day, try to do things in a way of which he would have approved.”

From the publisher: Fences don't always make good neighbors


By Sandy Sanders


Poet Robert Frost wrote that fences make for good neighbors. He felt that fences kept us in good order. True.

My backdoor neighbor died last week. He was one of the best. His name was Wesley Johnson.

I had known him for nearly 40 years but only as a neighbor since 2002. For at least 10 of those years, he was my pharmacist.

When my wife and I were looking at the home we live in now, I commented to her the man going into the house behind us looked like Wesley. I looked his phone number up and called him. “Where do you live?”

When he explained where his street was, I knew it was him.

“We might be your new backdoor neighbor,” I said.

“Great, we will be glad to have you,” he answered.

From the day we moved in to almost the last day, he was able to work in his yard, or he and my wife, or he and I, talked over the fence. He even shared a peach tree with me. As it turned out neither of us were very good at growing peach trees. We both had a laugh over that.

The first time I saw Wesley as a pharmacist, it was over the counter of the drug store which in a way is like a fence. When you walked up to the counter, he always gave you a big smile. At his funeral, the minister mentioned often his smile. It was for everyone. He did not hold it for a select few. At the drug store every customer was welcomed with the same greeting. The customer who he knew might not be able to pay the bill or the ones who paid with cash were never treated differently.

Wesley found out in May that he had Lou Gehrig’s disease. I think he realized he had the disease long before the diagnosis. By October, he began to feel the full brunt of the dreaded illness. By December, the disease had begun to take away his beautiful smile as his muscles began to fail him. He died Dec. 31. He was 69.

With or without a fence, Wesley would have been no less the good neighbor with no less of a smile.



http://www.valdostadailytimes.com/op...010230500.html

Barbara E. Hartman
Lebanon Daily News


Barbara E. Hartman, 69, of 2028 Carlton Dr., Lebanon died Friday, January 9, 2009 in the M.S. Hershey Medical Center after waging a courageous 18 year battle with Lou Gehrig’s disease. She was the wife of Kenneth G. Hartman. Barbara was born in Lebanon, PA on September 10, 1939 daughter of the late Margaret Gerhart Baum. She was a 1957 graduate of Lebanon High School and retired from the Hershey Pasta Co. She enjoyed reading and loved to travel. In addition to her husband she is survived by her son: Brian L. Hartman and his wife Luanne, Lebanon; Daughters: Lori Powell and Wendy Hartman both of Lebanon; granddaughters: Taylor and Tara Powell, Lebanon; sisters: Doris Reich, Karen Mitchell; brother: Edmund Baum all of Lebanon; grand-dog: Cooper and several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her sister Peggy Strohm and brother Jimmy Baum. Memorial services will be held Friday at 2:00 PM in the Rohland Funeral Home, 508 Cumberland St., Lebanon where a visitation will begin at 1:00 PM. Interment will be made in Mt. Lebanon Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to A.L.S.A., 321 Norristown Rd., Suite 260, Ambler, PA 19002-2755.

James E. 'Jim' Farley

James E. "Jim" Farley, 72, of Chillicothe, died Monday, January 5, 2009, at his residence unexpectedly.
In keeping with his wishes, there will be no calling hours or funeral service. Arrangements are under the direction of the Ware Funeral Home.

Jim was born May 11, 1936, in Pike County, Kentucky, to the late William Hibbard and Hettie Mae Jenkins Farley.

Surviving are daughters, Kim Farley, of Chillicothe, and Karen Farley, of Ashburn, VA; brothers, Hibbard "June" Farley, Jr., of McCarr, KY, and Fred Farley, of Springfield, Ohio; sisters, Mabel Hurley, of Williamson, WV, and Jean Snyder, of Circleville; and numerous nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by sisters, Cora Hatfield, Mary Comstock, Billie Steele, Emma Schrader, Thelma Meade and Ethel Farley; and by brothers, Raymond and Laurence Farley.

Jim retired from Chilpaco and was a member of U.P.I.U. Local 988.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to the ALS Association Development - Department 27001 Agoura Road Suite 250 - Calabasas Hills, CA 91301 or to the Alzheimer's Association National Office - 225 N. Michigan Ave., Floor 17 - Chicago, IL 60601.

You may sign his online register at www.warefh.com.

‘Kat’ will be remembered by many

By Ed Wells
RRSTAR.COM
Posted Jan 12, 2009 @ 12:13 AM

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Kathryn Ann Norman died the last day of December at the age of 44. She lost her battle with ALS/Lou Gehrig’s disease, and she left us much, much too soon. Kathy, or “Kat,” was a fine lady who brought happiness to anyone around her. There is much to remember about such a full life, but my best memories of Kat are from when we created the Masai Experience in the early 1990s.

The Masai Experience was an experimental summer program for at-risk boys ages 12, 13, and 14. The program started at Lockwood Park in the stone house on the hill. The kids worked farm chores, fed the animals, and did general pickup at the farm. Their day was very structured — farm work in the morning until finished, then class work with tutors and teachers, then free play. We offered fun, structure and order to kids’ lives that had already seen too much drugs, guns, death and despair.

The kids thrived under the care and direction of Kathy. To put it simply, they loved her. She was like a caring mother and a demanding sister to the boys. I knew at the time that if the boys were to learn about their purpose in life, they would have to re-examine their view of women. Most of the boys in the program loved their mothers, but their views about women were one-sided and harmful to having future fulfilling relationships with females.

Kathy solved that problem quickly. She was strong, fair, fun and interesting. She was full of love but not afraid to chastise the kids when they were wrong. With Kat and me, the boys saw a male-female relationship built on trust, respect and affection. They saw a relationship built on strict division of responsibility. There were things expected of me, and there were things expected of her. And most importantly there were expectations on the kids.

The Masai Experience seemed to me like the Waltons — with work, food, fun and space, wonderful space, where a young boy could run, jump, play and feel safe. The Masai Experience was a great time in my life, and that joy was largely because of Kat and how she lived, worked and played. When it came to the kids, Kathy and I were soul mates.

I only wish that the local agencies such as the Park District, law enforcement and educators had seen fit to continue and even expand the Masai program.

We saw the need and the data was there. We had the model. All we needed was the commitment of the involved agencies and the money. Yes, money was important to help these kids and also present- day kids. So many have nothing, and having nothing was and is complicated by lack of education and by violence and family disruption.

The Masai program was clean. We didn’t beg. We worked for donations for the program. Kathy was phenomenal at getting free stuff for the boys. But their needs were great, and it put a lot of financial stress on us. The Masai program worked in large part because of Kathy’s hard work, her joy in the kids and her unconditional love. She was the juice that kept the program going and helped me deal with the problems the kids had.

When I think of Kathryn Ann Norman, I think of the Masai and the people, parents, cousins, friends, sibling and neighbors who benefited from the program and her participation in it. She was my soul mate through the most trying and exciting times of my life.

Rest in peace, Kat. You will be missed, but you will be remembered for a long time by me and by the kids as a great, great lady, the Queen of the Masai.

Ed Wells of Rockford writes a weekly column for the Rockford Register Star. If you would like to comment, e-mail opinions@rrstar.com.

http://www.rrstar.com/opinions/colum...mbered-by-many

http://mudgee.yourguide.com.au/multi...rge/429563.jpg

Henry Sauerbier (front), son Ken, Andrea and daughter Linda James at the morning tea held in his honour last October. Mg201008c


Moving send-off
BY CONNIE STEVENS
13/01/2009 2:17:00 PM

One of Mudgee’s favourite son’s was given a moving send-off with more than 500 people attending his funeral on Monday.
Henry Sauerbier was a much loved member of the community and died on January 7 following a battle with the degenerative motor neurone disease.

His impact on the community was reflected by the large number of people attending the service at the One Life Family Church from different charities and walks of life.

Last October, his volunteer activities were recognised with a morning tea attended by his family and fellow volunteers.

Mr Sauerbier’s son, Bruce delivered an emotional tribute to his father whose life revolved around helping others.

“He believed in everything good and lived his life in such a way that he let his life shine.

“Faith was the driving force in all that he did in life,” he said.

He said he passed on to his eight grandchildren the best inheritance they could hope for by showing how a generosity of spirit could lead to a totally fulfilled life.

Eldest grandchild, Anne James said she had shared memories of her precious grandfather with the other grandchildren after Mr Saurbier’s death last week.

“I always thought of him as a hero with his work for the ambulance service and in other ways.

“He was always helping people.

“I feel lucky to have known him,” she said.

Greg Barnes, who was Mr Sauerbier’s pastor for seven years, reflected on his remarkable life.

“There are so many people here today because he touched so many lives.

“He truly was an amazing and gentle man,” he said.

Mr Sauerbier’s widow, Andrea said she shed so many tears when he was suffering that she felt now was a time of peace and reflection.

She talked about the life of the man she had been married to for 44 years with love and admiration.

“For many years, he had been a familiar face volunteering at nursing homes, Crossroads and Mudgee Courthouse.

“He was a member of groups such as the U3A, St. John’s ambulance, Mudgee Bushwalking Club and the Mudgee Performing Arts Society.

“He was part of such diverse programs as the PCYC, Young Drivers’ Education Program and the Mudgee Christian Bookshop

Mrs Sauerbier said the family had received tremendous emotional support from the Mudgee community through his difficult and debilitating illness.

In closing, she quoted from the Bible

“Well done thou good and faithful servant”

That sums up the life of Henry Sauerbier.

http://mudgee.yourguide.com.au/news/...f/1405997.aspx

Poet Mick Imlah dies, aged 52

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Mick Imlah

The poet Mick Imlah, whose volume of poetry, The Lost Leader, won the 2008 Forward prize for best collection and is shortlisted for tonight's TS Eliot prize, has died, aged 52.

The Lost Leader was only the second collection of poetry from Imlah, who was diagnosed with motor neurone disease in December 2007. His first volume, Birthmarks, was published in 1988 — a full 20 years earlier — to critical acclaim: reviewing it in the Times Literary Supplement, Neil Corcoran described him as "a poet of striking originality and cunning, a genuinely distinctive voice in the murmur and babble of the contemporary". The poetry community had been impatient for a follow-up ever since, but Fleur Adcock, one of the judges of last year's Forward prize, saw the wait as worthwhile on the grounds that "so much richness had been building up all that time". Chair of the judges Frieda Hughes, meanwhile, called The Lost Leader "quite brilliant", praising it in exalted terms as "an astonishing city in which live the characters that he describes with humour, wit and an unerring eye".

Born in 1956 and raised near Glasgow, Imlah combined a highly successful, if spare, poetic output with a parallel career in literary journalism. He was editor of the prestigious Poetry Review from 1983 until 1986, and worked at the Times Literary Supplement from 1992, where he was poetry editor. In 2000, he edited the New Penguin Book of Scottish Verse with fellow poet Robert Crawford.

Imlah is survived by his partner and two daughters.

Former USC LB, NFL linebacker Eric Scoggins dies
http://www.als-mda.org/anyone/images/EricScoggins.jpg
The Associated PressPublished: January 14, 2009

LOS ANGELES: Eric Scoggins, an outside linebacker who helped Southern California beat Alabama in their big 1978 matchup, has died of Lou Gehrig's disease. He was 49.

Scoggins died Friday in Tracy, Calif., the school said Tuesday.

Scoggins played three games for the San Francisco 49ers in 1982, then spent time in the United States Football League with the Los Angeles Express and Houston Gamblers.

He was a four-year letterman at USC. He recorded 164 career tackles, including 11 as a sophomore in the 24-14 win at Alabama. That performance earned him the Pac-10 defensive player of the week award.


http://www.iht.com/articles/ap/2009/...t-Scoggins.php

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Name: Eric Scoggins

Hometown, State: Tracy, CA

Age: 49


Family (spouse/partner, children, grandchildren):
Wife, four children (three sons and one daughter)


Hobbies/Interests:
Golf


Date of ALS diagnosis:
January 12, 2007


Tell us about your life before ALS:
My dream as a child was to go to USC and play football and eventually progress to professional. Not one willing to have my dream deferred, I played football at USC and also had a professional football career. After football I had more dreams of transferring my ability into the corporate world and excelled there as well. Before ALS I was passionate about my work and thrived on success. I don’t believe in titles, only to work hard and help others reach their full potential.


Tell us about your life with ALS:
Being a dreamer from the start and my life with ALS now I have the dream of finding a cure and plan to attack the issue with the same passion that fueled my successful professional career. I live by the famous quote, “If you don’t stand for something, you’ll fall for anything.”


Tell us how ALS has brought new significance to any aspect of your life - family, attitude, hobbies/passions, career, etc. :
It has made me re-shift my focus and energy to help finding a cure. I have since met Augie Nieto who has inspired me to join forces in that quest for finding a cure. I have established “Eric’s Vision,” which supports Augie’s Quest.
One of my greatest rewards is seeing the people I have mentored and watching them grow successful.


List your favorite quote: “If I tell you a mouse can pull a mountain, then you better hitch him up!”


Do you have a “life motto” or “profound words to live by”: “If a man doesn’t stand for something, he’ll fall for anything.”


Has there been an “a-ha!” moment or a specific turn of events that has helped you live with ALS?
My ah-ha! moment was when I met Augie Nieto, who’s in the same situation as I, and he gave me some sound advice that I took to heart on how I should live my life from this point forward, not wasting any more time being upset about my situation and living my life to the fullest every day.


Is there anything else about you and/or ALS that you want to share with people who read your story?
First, having family support is extremely important. Second, having extended support from what I call my true friends Ronnie Lott and Keena Turner has been extremely beneficial throughout this journey. Third, educate yourself and others about the disease.

USC football: Ex-Trojan Scoggins, 49, succumbs to ALS
January 13th, 2009, 4:48 pm · Post a Comment · posted by Michael Lev, staff writer

Eric Scoggins, 49, a member of USC’s 1978 national championship football team, died on Friday in Tracy, Calif., of amytrophic lateral sclerosis (Lou Gehrig’s disease).

A funeral service for Scoggins will be held at noon this Saturday at Inglewood Park Cemetary (720 E. Florence Ave., Inglewood). A repass will follow immediately at The Proud Bird (11022 Aviation Blvd., Los Angeles).

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to “Eric’s Vision,” which he founded after being diagnosed with ALS in January 2007. “Eric’s Vision” provides funds to the Muscular Dystrophy Association’s “Augie’s Quest” research initiative dedicated to finding a cure for ALS. He helped raise more than $150,000 for the cause.

Scoggins was a four-year (1977-80) letterman as an outside linebacker at USC, recording 164 career tackles.

He was a part-time starter as a senior in 1980, when he made the All-Pac-10 honorable-mention team. He also posted seven starts earlier in his career. As a 1978 sophomore, he was the Pac-10 Defensive Player of the Week and ABC’s Defensive Player of the Game after making 11 tackles in USC’s road victory at Alabama that propelled the Trojans to the national title.

He played in the NFL with the San Francisco 49ers in 1982, then in the USFL with the Los Angeles Express and Houston Gamblers.

He prepped at Inglewood (Calif.) High, where he made the All-CIF 3-A first team as a senior.

Despite Scoggins’ death, the inaugural “Champions for Hope” gala will go on as previously planned on March 14 at USC’s Town and Gown. The event, celebrating the 30th anniversary of USC’s 1978 national championship team with the goal of raising funds for “Eric’s Vision,” was conceived by Scoggins’ teammates and friends, including expected attendees Ronnie Lott, Anthony Munoz, Brad Budde, Charles White, John Robinson and Paul McDonald.

Scoggins is survived by his wife, Shonta, his 3 sons (Eric Jr., Evan and Eran), and a daughter, Tyler.

The late S. Salt Lake councilwoman just learned of diagnosis
By Rosemary Winters

The Salt Lake Tribune

Updated: 01/14/2009 08:26:39 PM MST


South Salt Lake City Councilwoman Rea Goddard died Tuesday, one day after being diagnosed with Lou Gehrig's disease. She was 73.

"That was a sudden blow to us," Mayor Bob Gray said Wednesday. "I don't know of anybody that didn't think the world of her."

Goddard was elected to represent South Salt Lake's District 2 in 2005. In the past year, she struggled with losing her voice and her ability to walk.

A longtime resident who reared her family in the same home she lived in as a child, Goddard is survived by her husband, Norm, five children, 12 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren.

Goddard, a beautician, ran Rea's Mop Shoppe salon inside her home for 30 years.

"She was kind of like a leaning post to the people who came in," Norm Goddard said. "They'd tell her their stories, and she'd help them with their decisions. She was a helping woman."

A friend, Connie Dickson, admired Goddard's love of learning. Even in her 70s, Goddard would take online courses. The councilwoman also found time to bake sugar cookies for her grandkids.

"There wasn't anything she couldn't do," recalled Dickson, who helped recruit Goddard into public office. "She had a lot of enthusiasm and was always busy."

The City Council will have to appoint a temporary replacement to fill Goddard's seat for the remainder of 2009. A new representative would be elected in November. Applications can be submitted at City Hall, 220 E. Morris Ave.

(2430 South).

"I would hope there would be people who would take an interest in their community like she did," said South Salt Lake City Councilman Shane Siwik. "Despite battling one of the most brutal diseases, she constantly tried to fulfill her obligation as a council member by attending her meetings as often as she could, finally, even in a wheelchair. Her quiet nature was a disguise to her hidden strength."

rwinters@sltrib.com

http://www.sltrib.com/news/ci_11455075

Former Blue Sox owner, 69, dies

By ELIZABETH COOPER
Observer-Dispatch
Posted Jan 19, 2009 @ 09:55 PM

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

On the day that Robert Fowler bought the Utica Blue Sox baseball team, he walked into local attorney Robert Julian’s office without an appointment and asked him to work with the team.

“He had heard I was a baseball fan and asked me if I’d represent the team,” Julian recalled Monday.

Julian said he made the decision in less than a heartbeat.

Fowler, the longtime owner of the Utica Blue Sox baseball team and a former president of the Mohawk Valley Chamber of Commerce died Thursday, according to the Orlando Sentinel, a newspaper for which Fowler once wrote.

Robert Fowler died after a 2 1/2 year fight with Lou Gehrig’s disease at the age of 69, the Sentinel said.

Julian remembered his friend as “a vigorous, can-do fellow” who was “very committed to this community.”

He also remembered Fowler’s sense of humor, and called him “a riot” and “a good story teller.”
Fowler owned the Blue Sox from 1984 to 2001, when he sold the team to baseball legend Cal Ripken Jr.

Joanne Gerace, who was general manager of the Blue Sox under Fowler, said she had a good working relationship with him.

“We worked together with one thing in mind,” she said. “To bring quality baseball and a great baseball atmosphere to the city of Utica and the Utica area, and to make our professional sports team one of the best in the New York-Penn League.”

In June 1995, Fowler applied for the job of president of the Mohawk Valley Chamber of Commerce. He beat out about 50 other candidates for the job, in which he remained until about the time he sold the team, according to O-D archives.

Former Utica Mayor Tim Julian, Robert Julian’s brother, called Fowler “a guy who liked to shake things up,” and said he had been a proponent of renovating the Hotel Utica.

During his tenure as chamber president, Fowler advocated for consolidation and regionalization, Tim Julian said.

Don Carbone, who sat on the chamber board of directors when Fowler was president said he was a good leader.

“He was a very active person when he got something in his mind he thought was the right thing to do,” Carbone said.

Fowler started his professional life as a journalist and spent time covering major league sports in Minnesota before going to work for the Sentinel, that paper’s article said.

Members of the family could not be reached Monday evening.

http://www.uticaod.com/archive/x1992...-owner-69-dies

Caldwell



Monday, January 19, 2009 11:23 AM CST


Richard Minor "****" Caldwell, the son of Frank and Clara (Arnold) Caldwell, died on Saturday, Jan. 17, 2009, at his home in Mount Pleasant.

A memorial service was held at 10 a.m. on Monday, Jan. 19, 2009, at Bates-Cooper-Sloan Chapel with Rev. Chuck Huffman officiating. Interment followed at Greenhill Cemetery in Mount Pleasant. Pallbearers were Andre Brogoitti, George Leonburger, Hill Enochs, Rick Harrison, David Poskey, Bobby Gillis, Hal Hess and Thomas Hockaday. Honorary pallbearers were Bill Bradford, Mark Warren, Bill Klein, Ben Spraggins, Todd Boatman and J.R. Trimble.

Mr. Caldwell is survived by his wife, Barbara Caldwell, of Mount Pleasant; son Todd Caldwell of Mesquite; sister Margaret Spann, of Mount Pleasant; nephews Roger Spann, of Dallas; Bruce Spann, of Mount Pleasant; niece Kay Hall, of Whitehouse; and stepsons, Scott, Steve and Stuart Sloan.

Mr. Caldwell was known for his passion in aviation and sports. He managed the airport in Sulphur Springs for 29 years. His tenure as a pilot spanned over 43 years, training over 200 pilots and administering over 1,700 test flights. He also did pipeline patrol for Mount Pleasant for 16 years. He was the voice of Sulphur Springs basketball and football games on KSST radio for 43 years, never missing a single game. He was also a member of the First Presbyterian Church.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Cypress Basin Hospice or the ALS Association, North Texas Chapter, 1231 Greenway Drive, Suite 270, Irving, Texas 75038

PG reporter who became ALS activist dies
Wednesday, January 21, 2009
Pittsburgh Post-Gazette

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Monessa Tinsley-Crabb, a Post-Gazette reporter who detailed her struggles with Lou Gehrig's disease in a series of newspaper columns, died today.

Mrs. Tinsley-Crabb, 55, of Carnegie, held several posts since joining the PG in June 2000, including police reporter and, most recently, as a reporter for the East edition.

After experiencing health problems, Mrs. Tinsley-Crabb was finally diagnosed in 2007 with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, known as Lou Gehrig's disease.

A former teacher who became a journalist, she decided to write about the disease and got involved in lobbying for state funding for ALS research and patient services, including making a trip to Harrisburg.

More details in tomorrow's Pittsburgh Post-Gazette.

http://www.post-gazette.com:80/pg/09...pid=latest.xml

Dearest Friends,



It is with great sorrow to inform you that our beloved mother and friend Susan Tarlton passed away peacefully in her home in Hickory NC on Thursday morning January 22nd. In recent months she greatly missed posting her personal accounts and successes with her ALS treatments as well as reading all of your good wishes. Regrettably, her admirable fight ended on Thursday January 22nd quietly in her sleep. Susan’s daughter Lisa and daughter-in-law Sue were by her side. And although we miss her terribly and her passing was somewhat unexpected, we are grateful that she can now rest from her fight and is indeed in a better place. Susan would also appreciate us sharing the fact that her last evening with us was one of fun, family and great conversation that was topped off with a rare Martini. A treat she hadn't enjoyed in over four years. She decided on this occasion (and many others!) enough with the ‘rules.’

We loved her optimism.She was an inspiration. All of our lives, she instilled in us that "Attitude is life."



We would like to note that mom’s experience with this disease has been nothing but inspirational for us as well. Although we will miss her terribly, perhaps her message will endure. We can learn and grow from this. Susan’s positive attitude, hope and unwavering determination to fight to the end have taught us the strength of the human spirit. She still lives with us of course and her spirit is and always will be alive in our hearts. Her life is a testament to what is really important – family, friends, love, hope and determination.



A true ‘Southern Lady,’ Susan Tarlton was born in 1937 in Columbus, GA, the daughter of the late Julius Pinkey “JP” and Susan Elizabeth Chappell Smith. She was a charter member of St. Luke’s United Methodist Church. Susan had an illustrious career at Boyles Furniture for more than 25 years. She had a dynamic personality with an incredibly positive outlook on life that touched everyone who knew her. She was an elegant and fashionable lady to the very end who loved sailing, riding motorcycles, and entertaining. Although a staunch Republican, she was very proud to vote for Barack Obama in November. She was a devoted friend and very dedicated to her family. Susan was a very strong and independent woman as she faced her illness head on for five years. She battled her disease with determination and courage, undergoing stem cell therapy abroad and opting to try non-traditional ALS treatments. Be her side throughout this journey was Margaret Ward, to whom the family owes their deepest gratitude. The WFUBM (Wake Forest University Baptist Medical Center) Center was also very supportive in her medical endeavors and in gratitude to their program, she has donated her body to ALShttp://email.secureserver.net/pcompose.php research.



In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her sister, Julia Smith Hendrix. Susan is survived by Horace Greene, with whom she shared her life for the past 11 years; a son, Vernon Tartlton and wife Sue of Hickory; two daughters, Lisa Tarlton O’Hair and husband Dana of Hickory; and Mary Jane Tarlton and husband Neil Deutch, of New York City; Jim Tarlton, Max Tarlton and grandson Dixon C. O’Hair all of Hickory; and two granddaughters, Lily Chappell O’Hair of Hickory and Rose Chappell Deutsch of New York City, NY; her step grandchildren, David, Elizabeth, Caroline and Will Mathison of Hickory.



There will be a gathering of friends and family from 3:00 to 6:00 pm on Sunday, January 25th at the home of Lisa and Dana O’Hair. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials are made to Palliative Care Center & Hospice of Catawba, 3975 Robinson Rd. Newton, NC 28658. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.bass-smithfuneralhome.com.Bass-Smith Funeral Home and Crematory is serving the family of Susan Chappell Smith Tarlton.

ST. LOUIS: Julius Weissman


01/25/2009

Julius Weissman, who in his 50s co-founded a dance costume company in St. Louis that makes costumes and shoes for girls nationwide, died Friday (Jan. 23, 2009) of kidney disease at a hospice in Boca Raton, Fla., where he had been living for 15 years. He was 92.

Mr. Weissman grew up in St. Louis, graduated from Soldan High School and St. Louis University and worked as an accountant before becoming a partner of the former Stein Egg and Poultry Co. during the 1950s. He married Rose Lebowitz of St. Louis in 1944.

In 1960, the Weissmans turned her hobby of making dance costumes into a business, Weissman's Dancewear, at 6505 Delmar Boulevard in the University City Loop. They rented costumes and sold shoes then began making them for sale through dance teachers and studios. The company became a national catalogue business in 1966.

The company expanded through moves three times, moving in 2004 to the St. Louis Marketplace at 6750 Manchester Avenue. Now called Weissman's Dancewear Solutions, it employs 700 people in manufacturing and sales of costumes for girls in ballet, jazz, tap and lyrical dance recitals and competitions.
The Weissmans were longtime residents of Olivette. Rose Weissman died in 1991.

Mr. Weissman retired from active management when he moved to Florida but was chairman emeritus on his death. His son, Howard Weissman of Clayton, is company president and his granddaughter, Lauren Kerner of Clayton, is executive vice president.

In addition to his son and granddaughter, among the survivors are two sisters, Rita Bunn of St. Louis and Lorraine Portnoy of Plano, Texas; a great-granddaughter; and a companion, Harriet Finn of Boca Raton.

Visitation will be at 1:30 p.m. Monday at Congregation B'nai Amoona, 432 South Mason Road, Creve Coeur, followed by a funeral service there at 2 p.m. Interment will be at Chesed Shel Emeth Cemetery, 650 White Road, Chesterfield.

Memorial contributions may be made to the ALS Association, St. Louis Regional Chapter, 2258 Weldon Parkway, St. Louis, Mo. 63146.

Mitchell’s long battle with Lou Gehrig’s disease ends
By Charlie Smith
Staff Writer
Monday, January 26, 2009 12:11 PM CST
Mitch Mitchell inspired many in the Greenwood community through his courageous battle with Lou Gehrig’s disease.


The Pillow Academy Lady Mustangs, for one, could always count on him for support and encouragement at every game, home and away.

“He was such a fighter, such an inspiration to all the girls,” Head Coach Durwin Carpenter said. “He came to all the games and was always so positive.”

Last year, the junior high team — which Mr. Mitchell’s daughter, Devin, played on — dedicated their season to him. This season the varsity squad had worn red armbands in at least one game in his honor and also had written scriptures of hope and prayer for him on their forearms.

Mr. Mitchell, 47, died Sunday at Greenwood Leflore Hospital, secure in the promises of God, according to his pastor, the Rev. Jim Phillips of North Greenwood Baptist Church.


“It was just really a sweet release to know that he was well and in heaven,” Phillips said.

Mr. Mitchell, who worked at the John Deere dealership in Lexington, first started showing symptoms of Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease, in October 2005.

“He just really started stumbling. It started in his left foot,” Phillips said.

The progressive neurological disease spread up to his legs, chest, arms and hands, confining him to a wheelchair. A wireless cell phone in his ear became his lifeline.



“His mind was clear to the very end, which was so great,” Phillips said.

It was remarkable to observe his family’s love for him, the pastor said. His wife, Karen; daughter, Devin; son, Colby; parents Billy and Ellen Mitchell; and brother, Scott, cared for him until the end.

Mr. Mitchell, on his part, saw the opportunity to provide light-hearted moments for his caregivers.

“He kept them laughing,” Phillips said.



Everyone who knew him was grateful for the time to reminisce with him before his passing, he said.

“He’s been an inspiration to all of us. God doesn’t always give you closure like we’ve had with Mitch,” he said.

Wilson and Knight Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. The family requests memorials be made to North Greenwood Baptist Church and no flowers.

JOHN MORGAN BLANKUSH
A lifelong educator, 54, of Bloomington, Minn.

http://www.duluthnewstribune.com/med...n-Blankush.jpg
A lifelong educator, 54, of Bloomington, Minn., passed away due to ALS (Lou Gehrig 's Disease) Jan. 22, 2009.
John is survived by wife, Jan; son, Joe (fiancée Johanna Harvey); daughter, Jess (fiancé Mark Theisen); grandson, Eli John Blankush Theisen; sisters Mary Kay (James) Brown, Peg (William) Sweeney, and Rose (Jacob) Zimmerman; "brother", Tom Thatcher; together with relatives; "the gang"; students and many friends.

FUNERAL SERVICE: 10:30 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 31, 2009, in First Memorial Funeral Chapel, 7110 France Ave. S, Edina, MN. Visitation 30 minutes prior to service. Contributions to the John Blankush Memorial Music Scholarship to benefit students at Denfeld High School in Duluth, should be directed to the family. First Memorial Funeral Chapel (952) 924-4900.

Thomas G. Webber
January 28, 2009
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OAK HARBOR: Thomas G. Webber, 71, of Center St., Oak Harbor died

Sunday, January 25, 2009 at Bethesda Care Center in Fremont, OH after a short battle with Lou Gehrig's Disease.

He was born July 1, 1937 in Morris, IL to Eugene and Izet (Keating) Webber. He was a 1955 graduate of Morris High School. Thomas served in the U.S. Air Force from 1955 to 1959. Thomas was employed at Securitas as a Security Guard. He was also a life long Salesman at the Sears Catalog Store in Fremont and an Automobile Salesman for Vern Miller Chevrolet in Oak Harbor which later became Al Baumann Auto Group. Thomas was a proud friend of Bill W. and member of A.A. since 1984. He loved baseball, football, being outdoors, going to casinos and was a life long Chicago Cubs fan.

Thomas is survived by his loving daughter, Charlene (Anthony) Lopez, Fremont, OH; brother, Patrick (Peg) Webber, Morris, IL; nephews, Paul and Perry Webber, Morris, IL; great niece and nephews, Tyler, T.J., Keegan, Collin and Nicholas Webber and pals, Rusty and Brutus.

He was preceded in death by his parents and brothers, Warren and Timothy Webber.

Visitation: Friday from 2 to 8 pm at Wonderly Horvath Hanes Funeral Home & Crematory, 425 E. State St, Fremont, OH.

Service: Saturday, January 31, 2009, 10:30 am at the funeral home with

Fr. William Pifher officiating.

Memorials: To the family.

Online Condolence: www.wonderlyhorvathhanes.com

RICHARD VALORE, 64

Operations manager liked days at the beach
Wednesday, January 28, 2009
Staten Island Advance


STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- Richard P. Valore, 64, of Annadale, a retired operations manager, died Sunday in Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital, New Brunswick, N.J., of Lou Gehrig's disease.

Born in the Bronx, he also lived in South Brunswick, N.J., before relocating to Annadale 17 years ago. He had been living with his daughter in Old Bridge, N.J., for five months.

Mr. Valore had a 40-year career as an operations manager for Advest Inc., Manhattan. He retired in 2001.

He was a member of the Cashiers' Association of Wall Street.

A U.S. Army veteran, he was stationed in Germany during the late 1960s.

Mr. Valore loved going to the beach, and he enjoyed photography and traveling.

"He was a great husband, father and pop-pop," his family said.

Surviving are his wife of 21 years, the former Toni Jean Trello; his daughter, Nicole Bonavita; his father, Paul Valore; two grandsons, and his former wife, the former Beverly Raskin.

The funeral service will be tonight at 8 in the Old Bridge (N.J.) Funeral Home. Arrangements include cremation.

Nurse was honored for work at Camp Superkids
Diane Delores Jones, who died from ALS, exhibited love and strength whether caring for her five nieces and nephews, emergency room patients or children with asthma.

By TIM HARLOW, Star Tribune

Last update: February 1, 2009 - 2:15 PM


Strength. Caring. Love. Faith. Those were the attributes that nurse Diane Delores Jones exhibited whether caring for her five nieces and nephews, emergency room patients or the children with asthma who attended a summer camp put on by the American Lung Association.

She also was fearless and showed determination and spunk as she battled Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) - also called Lou Gehrig's disease - for 12 years, said her mother Delores, of Champlin.

Jones died Sunday at Mount Olivet Careview Center in Minneapolis from the disease that weakens and eventually destroys motor neurons, but she far surpassed the average life expectancy of those with ALS, which is 3 to 5 years, according to the ALS Association.

Jones, 56, of Minneapolis, spent many hours tending to patients in emergency rooms at Fairview and Minneapolis Children's hospitals. For 25 years, she took vacation time to volunteer as the head nurse at Camp Superkids, a summer camp for children ages 7 to 14 with asthma held in Loretto, Minn. She recruited doctors, respiratory therapists, nurses and pharmacists who also volunteered their time, said Penny Gottier Fena, executive director of the American Lung Association Minnesota chapter.

"She was very bright, very personable and the kind of leader people were loyal to, but most of all she was committed to those kids," Gottier Fena said. "I think some of the happiest times she had was there. We had a Superkids family and she was the linch pin for that."

Her efforts at Camp Superkids was recognized in 1999 when KARE-TV presented her with an Eleven Who Care award.

"I think Diane had 100 people there, doctors, nurses, camp associates, friends and family," said Jones' mother, Delores. "It was a really fabulous night."

Those who worked with her thought highly of her, too.

"She was smart, well-trained, thoughtful, conscientious, caring, professional and a competent leader," wrote Dr. Steven Weisberg, who worked with Jones at Camp Superkids.

Jones left her touch on her south Minneapolis neighborhood. She had a large garden of perennials and propagated plants and shared them with neighbors in the vicinity of 58th Street and Upton Av. S., said Jones' brother, David, of Spring Lake Park.

"I think it spread across south Minneapolis."

Jones liked to travel, liked Christmas and took her nephews and nieces to the annual holiday show on the eighth floor at Dayton's (now Macy's) in downtown Minneapolis. She rarely missed the State Fair, and on a typical year would go three times, David said.

"She was a State Fair devotee," he said. "She liked mini donuts and corn dogs. And she'd find a good bench and people watch."

Along with her mother and son, Jones is survived by another brother, Doug, of Andover.

Services will be at 11 a.m. Saturday at Mt. Olivet Lutheran Church, 50th Street and Knox Av. S., Minneapolis.



http://www.startribune.com/local/387...D3aPc:_Yyc:aUU

Russell H. Schrank

Print this page E-mail this article Russell H. Schrank age 66 of Oshkosh, died at his home after a five year battle with ALS (Lou Gehrig's disease) on Saturday, January 31, 2009. He was born on June 23, 1942 to Ferdinand and Doris (Turner) Schrank. On May 29, 1976 he married Judy Meilahn.

A dedicated tax accountant, Russell worked out of his home; this allowed him to be where it was most important to him, with his family. He was a loving husband, father, and grandfather. He was trustworthy, joyful and giving. Russell put other's needs before his own. He was an active member of St. John Evangelical Lutheran Church. He served his country as a helicopter pilot in the U.S. Army. Russell loved to cook and was always up for a good time; when it came to entertaining he was, "The Grill Guy."

Surviving Russell is: his wife, Judy; daughter, Jessica Lynn (Christopher J.) Guetzkow; grandsons, Brendon R. and Jacob R.; mother-in-law, Carole Meilahn; siblings: Allyn (Karen), Richard (Billie), Keith (Sharon), Janice, Cheryl (Jim) LaFontaine, and Donna (Hans) Czipri; brother-in-law, David (Rindy) Meilahn; "adopted" son, Jay (Kathy) Wolfgram; and many nieces and nephews. Preceding Russell in death are: his twins, James H. and Jeanette K.; his parents, Ferdinand and Doris; brother, Donald Schrank; sister, Sharon Schrank; and father-in-law, Wesley Meilahn.

Funeral services for Russell will be held at 11 a.m. on Thursday, February 5, 2009, at Seefeld Family of Funeral Chapels, 1025 Oregon Street. A time for visitation and sharing memories will be held at the funeral chapel on Wednesday, February 4, 2009 from 4 to 7 p.m. and again on Thursday from 10 a.m. until the time of the service. Interment will be in Lake View Memorial Park. Please visit www.seefeldfuneral.com to send online condolences to the family. Memorial contributions may be made to the ALS Association.

Special thanks to all the hospice's nurses who have cared for Russell.

Seefeld Funeral and

Cremation Services

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Anthony N Patriarca -- Johnston

Anthony N. Patriarca, 80, of Johnston, passed away at home surrounded by his loving family on Monday, February 2, 2009. He was the beloved husband of Florence M. (Kielbasa) Patriarca. Born in Cranston, he was the son of the late Gaetano and Rose (Scungio) Patriarca.

Anthony was employed by Mine Safety Appliances of Esmond until his retirement. He was a United States Navy Veteran.

Besides his wife of 59 years, he leaves a son, Paul J. Patriarca; seven daughters, Pamela Raposa and her husband David Raposa, Sr., Paula Boling and her husband Richard Boling, Phylis Montgomery, Pauline Mousseau and her husband Ted Mousseau, Patricia, Paulette and Patrice Patriarca; a brother, Gaetano Patriarca; a sister Arlene Pullen; eleven grandchildren and six great grandchildren. He was the brother of the late Phyllis DeSimone and Susan McGarry.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend a Mass of Christian Burial Wednesday at 10 a.m. in Our Lady of Grace Church, George Waterman Rd., Johnston. Visiting hours respectfully omitted. Burial with Military Honors will be in Highland Memorial Park, Johnston. In Lieu of flowers, donations in his memory may be made to Home and Hospice Care of RI, 169 George St., Pawtucket, RI 02860 or to ALS Association, RI Chapter, 2915 Post Road, Warwick, RI 02886. Condolences at Maceroni.com

JOSEPH PATRICK LAURENT
Joseph Patrick Laurent, 41 of Luray, Virginia died on Jan.
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Joseph Patrick Laurent, 41 of Luray, Virginia died on Jan. 30, 2009 at Page Memorial Hospital, in Luray.

He was born in Duluth, on Sept. 4, 1967 to parents Hermis and Kathleen Laurent of Cloquet.

He graduated from Proctor Senior High School, in June 1986. Shortly after he graduated Joe moved from Proctor to Luray, Virginia working as a painter. Joe changed jobs in Luray several times and worked for eight years as a maintenance person for Page Memorial Hospital in Luray before being diagnosed with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) in 2003.

Joe loved to fish and hunt, spending a lot of time in the outdoors with his son, Joseph Jr.. He also enjoyed music, singing, playing guitar, and collecting baseball cards. Joe touched the lives of many people, making many friends who treated him like family throughout his illness.

Joe is survived by his son, Joseph Laurent, Jr. of Stanley, Va.; his parents, Hermis and Kathleen Laurent of Cloquet; his sisters, Cheryl (Dan) Larson of Saginaw and Angela (Ben) Urban of Cloquet; and his brothers, Harold Laurent, Michael (Debbie) Laurent, both of Cloquet, and James (Terri) Laurent of Honolulu, Hawaii; and numerous nephews and nieces and was expecting his first grandchild in June.

FUNERAL SERVICE: will be held in Luray, Virginia on Feb. 5. A gathering for family and friends will be held at the Solway Town Hall Wednesday, Feb. 11, from 5 to 8 p.m. Memorial contributions can be made to the ALS Association, Minnesota Chapter, 333 N. Washington Ave, Suite 105, Minneapolis, MN 55401.