RUBIO, DAWN MARIE (FMHS 1994) WILLIAMS, JOEL ABNER JR (FMHS 1957) MCGILL, FLOYD ROGER JR (FMHS 1959) JONES, SAMUEL DAVID "S D" (FMHS 1935) CURRY, CLARA BELL (CLARKE) (FMHS 1949) UNGAR, ALEXANDER KARL "ALEX" (FMHS 1966) HANSON, WOODWARD STANLEY JR (FMHS 1932) KINNEY, PHILIP R H (FMHS 2002) DOWNING, MELVIN F SR (FMHS 1952) DOWNING, BARBARA (UHLAR) (FMHS 1951) TINSLEY, PATRICIA JOANN "PATTY" (HARRELL)(BEMBRY) (FMHS 1965) THOMAS, LUCIAN FREEMAN "TOMMY" (FMHS 1957) BARNES, FLOYD F "TOOTSIE" (FMHS 1945) BEALL, JAMES DAN (FMHS 1925) FREYBE, INGRID (FARMER) (FMHS 1966) BICKEL, HERBERT JACOB "HERB" JR (FMHS 1948) DICKSON, JULIA E "JUDY" (WILLIAMS) (FMHS 1937) REEVES, JENNIFER ANNE (VIVES) (FMHS 1990) DICKSON, ANNA MARGARET (FREY) (FMHS 1936) BUFFINGTON, IRENE (ROSSER)(JOHNSON) (FMHS 1952) BURCHIANTI, MICHAEL (FMHS 1980) KELLEY, JAMES RANDALL "RANDY" (FMHS 1959) YEOMANS, STEVEN WADE (FMHS 1989) LEITNER, MARY (ALVRUS) (FMHS 1926) CHAPPELLE, RICHARD T "DICK" SR (FMHS 1940) STEVENSON, MARY COOK "JUDY" (JERZ) (FMHS 1958) HANSON, RICHARD H "DICK" (FMHS 1943) LAMPP, ERMA NAOMI "MONKEY" (BOYETT) (FMHS 1939) ENGELHARDT, EUNICE KATHERYNE "EUNIE" (JONES)(FMHS 1930) WIGINGTON, JENNIFER (LARSSON) (FMHS 1963) PERRY, ELIZABETH (ROMEIS) (FMHS 1931) PERRY, WILEY GENE JR (FMHS 1983) YOUMANS, DELORES (MEREDITH) (FMHS 1956) CARSON, LILLIAN (REICHLE) (FMHS 1933) EARP, RUSTY DENTON (FMHS 1967) MILLER, FRANCES (ENGLAND) (FMHS 1935) KEEN, NANCY VONCILE (DEMOS) (FMHS 1951-2) STRICKLAND, BYRDIA CHRISTINE (CONOVER) (KROTINE) (FMHS 1935) HALGRIM, ROBERT "BOB" (FMHS 1927) PENDARVIS, JOHN DAVID "JAY" ["JD"] (FMHS 1950) CLEMENT, ALICE ELIZA (FMHS 1937) SMALL, MELISSA SUE (GARCIA) (FMHS 1990) SMITH, MARY ALICE (BROWN) (FMHS 1954) SHEROUSE, CYRIL M "RED" (FMHS 1934) SUMNER, ALBERT B (FMHS 1938) ABRAMS, IRIS DALE (FINGER) (FMHS 1957) IRONS, LAWRENCE A "LARRY" (FMHS 1968) GREEN, LILY CHRISTINE (MCIVER) (FMHS 1949) LAWHON, ROBERT ALLEN JR (FMHS 1951)
DAWN MARIE RUBIO (FMHS 1994) 2005-09-08 Dawn Marie Rubio, 29, of Fort Myers, passed away unexpectedly on Monday, September 5, 2005 at home. She was born in Fort Myers September 12, 1975 and has been a lifelong resident. She graduated from Fort Myers High School in 1994 and was a member of the Color Guard while there. She received her nail tech certification from Lee VoTech. Dawn is survived by her son: Carl Lee Shackleford, Jr.; parents: Roger and Pam Rubio of Fort Myers; fianc‚: Carl Shackleford, Sr.; a sister: Crystal Joy Rubio (FMHS 1995) Mansell (Jeff) of Fort Myers; two brothers: Roger Rubio, Jr. (Phyllis) of Burlington, NJ and Eric Rubio (FMHS 2002) (Bekah) of Lehigh Acres; maternal grandparents: Etta Mae Mariotti and David Maikranz; paternal grandmother: Guadalupe Matias; a niece: Bethanie Machel Rubio, a nephew: Brandson Mansell and many aunts, uncles, and cousins. She was preceded in death by her maternal great grandmother: Pearl Gould and her paternal grandfather: Francisco Rubio, Sr. Funeral services will be conducted at 2:00 PM on Saturday, September 10, 2005 at Fort Myers Memorial Gardens Funeral Home, 1589 Colonial Blvd., Fort Myers with Pastor Phil Romanow officiating. Visitation will be from 12:00 noon until the time of the service. Burial will follow in Fort Myers Memorial Gardens Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the Carl Shackleford, Jr. Savings Account at Bank of America, 1511 Matthew Dr., Fort Myers, FL 33907. Dawn was deeply loved by all and her family would like to express a special thanks to the members of her Tuesday night "Keep it Real" group. Via Kim, slightly edited, from the Fort Myers News-Press
JOEL ABNER WILLIAMS JR (FMHS 1957) 2005-09-24 Joel A. Williams Jr., 65, went to be with his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on Tuesday, September 20, 2005 at his home in Ft.Myers. He was a lifetime Florida resident and a member of Crossroads Baptist Church. Joel was previous owner of Williams Hardware in E. Ft.Myers. He was preceded in death by his father J.A. Williams, Sr. Joel is survived by his mother, Louise Williams, his wife, Rena Williams, daughters, Cindy Beams, Renae Brabham, son-in-law Danny Brabham and grandchildren Laci Harrell, Joey Harrell, Tyler Brabham and Dillon Brabham. Visitation will be Sunday, 2:00-4:00 p.m. at Anderson Funeral Home. The funeral service will be Monday at 11:00 a.m. at Crossroads Baptist Church. =PICTURE= Slightly edited, from the Fort Myers News-Press
FLOYD ROGER MCGILL SR (FMHS 1959) 2005-09-24 FEB. 24, 1940 TO SEPT. 18, 2005 Roger McGill of Immokalee, FL passed away peacefully at Hospice of Naples Sept. 18, 2005. A lifetime resident of SW Florida, Roger was born in Holopaw, FL and resided in Fort Myers & Immokalee. He was a graduate of Fort Myers High School class of 1959, where he played football for the Greenwaves as an outstanding defensive player. After graduation he joined the US Army and served our country as a Sergeant stationed in Texas & Germany. Upon returning to Florida after being in the Armed Services, he went to work for the Fort Myers Fire Dept. retiring after 20 years of being an engineer, EMT diver and a wonderful cook for all of his co-workers. Since Roger was such a wonderful cook, he started a Bar-B-Que catering service. He bar-b-qued for people from Key West to Tallahassee for multiple organizations and events. His love of cooking also took on a desire to compete and travel to many Chili Cook-offs across the state in which he received many awards. Roger also was instrumental in the development of SW Florida. From his teenage years and young adulthood, he worked for his father Jim McGill's Dragline Co., running a drag-line. He worked on many of the roads, bridges, & power line right-of-ways. Later he began his own business of "Roger McGill Tractor Service", with that he helped build Immokalee. Everyone can remember Roger riding on his tractor through town on his way to a job site grading the foundation for someone's future home. He also carried on the family tradition of raising cattle with FD Ranch. He served on the South Florida Water Management Governing Board and was a member of the FL Cattlemen's Association. He also ventured into raising Ostriches. Roger was also an avid saltwater fisherman traveling from Belize to the Bahamas, the East Coast of the US and Florida. Preceded in death by his father, James Cypert McGill "Jim" , and mother, Irene Elizabeth Hunter. He is survived by his daughter Patrice and her husband Thomas "Tap" Patterson, his son Floyd Roger McGill Jr. and his wife Rebecca "Becky", his grandson Richmond Nathaniel, his brother James "Jimmy" McGill (FMHS 1956) (Anne) of N. Fort Myers, his sisters Joanne Williams (Jerry) and Betty Wryals (John) both of Immokalee and long time special friend Frances "Fran" D'Alessandro of Fort Myers. Memorial services will be held at United Methodist Church of Immokalee on Saturday, Sept. 24, 2005 at 2 PM. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Hospice of Naples. 239-261-4404.=PICTURE= Slightly edited, from the Fort Myers News-Press
SAMUEL DAVID "S D" JONES JR (FMHS 1935) 2005-09-07 Samuel David (S.D.) Jones, Jr., of Cherrylog, GA died Wednesday, August 31, on his 90th birthday at his home, after a long illness. Born in Fort Myers in 1915, he was the son of the late Samuel David and Nellie Barfield Jones. He attended Gwynne Institute and graduated from Fort Myers High School where he was a linebacker on the Green Wave football team. He worked of the Fort Myers Post Office and retired as Postmaster of the N. Fort Myers Post Office in 1970. He was a 53 year member of the Rabe O. Wilkison American Legion ost 38 of Fort Myers, having served in World War II in the 6th Marine Division in the Pacific. He was also a member of the Pioneer Club of Lee County. S.D. was preceded in death by his wife, Margaret Bolick Jones (FMHS 1939), a son, Thomas David "Buddy" Jones, sisters, Laura Nettie Jones Whidden (FMHS 1929) and Elvine Jones (FMHS 1935). Survivors include daughters and sons-in-law Margaret Nellie "Peggy Nell" (FMHS 1958) and George Shaw of Cherrylog, and Elizabeth "Beth" Singley of Powder Springs, GA; brother and sister-in-law James and Mae Jones of Garner, NC; four grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. A memorial service will be held Sunday, September 18, at 2 PM at the Cornerstone Baptist Church in Cherrylog with Rev. Paul Mims, pastor officiating. In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Mr. Jones may be made to: Cornerstone Baptist Church, P.O. Box 217, Cherrylog, GA 30522 or Georgia Mountains Hospice, Inc., 70 Caring Way, Jasper, GA 30143. Akins Funeral Home of Blue Ridge was in charge of arrangements. =PICTURE= Slightly edited, from the Fort Myers News-Press
CLARA BELLE CURRY (CLARK) (FMHS 1949) 2005-08-24 Clara Belle Clark, age 74 of Crystal River, FL went to be with her Lord on Saturday, August 20, 2005. She was born in Lee County, Florida July 21, 1931, daughter of the late Lester and Pansy (Hughes) Curry. Before moving to Crystal River in 2000, she had been a resident of Naples, FL. She was a member of the Church of God of the Prophecy and was a retired waitress in Lee and Collier Counties. She was the owner of the Bus Station Restaurant in Naples for 6 1/2 years. She enjoyed embroidery and knitting. Survivors include her husband of 55 years Lawrence Clark of Crystal River, FL; 1 daughter, 1 sister, 1 brother, 2 grandchildren, 6 great-grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews. She will be deeply missed by her family and friends. A memorial service for Clara Belle will be held Saturday, August 27th, at 6:00 PM at the Fort Myers Church of God of the Prophecy, Fort Myers, FL with Pastor Danny Hurlbret officiating. In lieu of flowers, the family suggest memorial contributions be made to the Fort Myers Church of God of the Prophecy. Arrangements by Strickland Funeral Home, Crystal River, FL. Via Kim, slightly edited, from the Fort Myers News-Press
ALEXANDER KARL UNGAR JR (FMHS 1966) 2005-10-03 Alexander Karl Ungar, Jr., age 56, of Fort Myers, passed away September 30, 2005 in Fort Myers. He was born Oct. 1, 1948 in Nuremberg, Germany to Alexander Karl Ungar Sr. and Hildegard H. Espey Ungar. He was a graduate of Fort Myers High School and attended Edison College. He was a sales associate and owner of his company, Downtown Associates Unlimited Inc., in the downtown Fort Myers area. Up until his illness, he was active the redevelopment of downtown Fort Myers. Survivors include his brother; Walter Ungar of Fort Myers and a companion and friend; Jo Ann Peeples of Fort Myers. Graveside funeral services will be Tuesday, October 4, 2005, 1100 AM at Ortona Cemetery, Ortona, FL with Pastor Bob Moore officiating. Visitation will start 1030 AM prior to the start of services. =PICTURE= Arrangements by Akin-Davis Funeral Home-Fort Myers, Florida. Via Kim, slightly edited, from the Fort Myers News-Press
WOODWARD STANLEY HANSON JR (FMHS 1932) 2005-10-07 W. Stanley Hanson, Jr., 91, a Fort Myers native, passed away at his home on October 5, 2005. He was preceded in death by his parents W. Stanley Hanson, Sr., and Clara Petzold Hanson; his sister, Marian Hanson McGee; his wife of 62 years, Mary Ellen (Gonzalez) Hanson, (FMHS 1939) whose great grandfather Capt. Manuel A. Gonzalez was one of the first settlers of Fort Myers; and by his daughter, Donna Hanson Gillespie. Stanley was born in Fort Myers, FL, on September 21, 1914 on Monroe Street. Stanley was an Eagle Scout of Troop 1, student pilot and attended Fort Myers High School where he graduated with the class of 1932. He served in the both the U.S. Army as an Air Cadet and in the U.S. Navy as Machinist Mate-1st Class. He owned Han-De Tire Co. and was appointed Lee County Tax Assessor in 1955 by Gov. LeRoy Collins. He was Worshipful Master of Masonic Tropical Lodge No. 56 Free and Accepted Masons, Veterans of Foreign Wars, a Life Member of the American Legion, The National Society of the Sons of the American Revolution, served on the Board of Directors of the Salvation Army. Stanley was Pres. of the South West Florida Historical Society, Past Pres. of the Pioneer Club of Lee County and a key organizer of its annual Pioneer Picnic, a Deacon at the First Baptist Church of Fort Myers, an MAI member of the American Institute of Real Estate Appraisers, and a member of the Fort Myers Board of Realtors. He was the grandson of Dr. William Hanson and Julia Allen Hanson. Dr. Hanson practiced medicine in Fort Myers from 1884 to 1911 and was Thomas Alva Edison's physician during his visits to his winter estate. Julia Hanson was known as the "Most Beloved Woman in Florida," and was one of the founders of the Fort Myers Woman's Club in 1885 and its president for 29 years. Stanley's father, W. Stanley Hanson, Sr., was best known for his work with the Seminole Indians by whom he was trusted implicitly. He was known as "the white medicine man" having joined the council of elders at the annual Green Corn Dance. From boyhood, he spoke and mastered their language. A prominent member of Florida West Coast Leaders, Hanson invited two Indian guides (Assumhatchee and Billy Cornpatchee) to assist the 22 member Tamiami Trail-Trail Blazers on their April 1923, 91 mile trek from Fort Myers through the Everglades to Miami, to prepare the way for the Tamiami Trail. Stanley's mother, Clara A. Hanson, of Tarpon Springs, FL, was a member of St. Luke's Episcopal Church, League of Women's Voters and Lee County Democratic Women's Club. Stanley is survived by his son Woodward S."Woody" Hanson (FMHS 1972); seven grandsons, William (FMHS 2005), Zachary (FMHS 2004), Griffin, Ethan and Dylan Hanson, all of Fort Myers, FL; Robert C. and Charles Hanson Gillespie of Charlotte, N.C.; one granddaughter, Kris Ellenberg of Hilton Head, S.C., and one great-grandson Ian Rivers. Visitation will be Friday, October 7, 2005, 600-800 PM, and funeral services will be Saturday, October 8, 2005, 1100 AM, Anderson Funeral Home, 3654 Palm Beach Blvd., Fort Myers, FL. Services will be conducted by Dr. Winford L. Hendrix of First Baptist Church of Fort Myers. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the Donna Hanson Gillespie Scholarship Fund, Attn: Beth Saul, Queens University of Charlotte, 1900 Selwyn Avenue, Charlotte, NC 28274. =PICTURE= Via Kim, slightly edited, from the Fort Myers News-Press
PHILIP R H KINNEY (FMHS 2002) 2005-10-30 Philip R.H. Kinney, 21, of Cape Coral, passed away Wednesday, October 26, 2005. He was born August 18, 1984 in Louisville, KY and has lived in Cape Coral since 1986. Philip graduated from Fort Myers High School where he was an honor student in the I. B. program. Following high school, he attended the University of Central Florida. Survivors of Philip include his parents Richard L. Kinney and Lisa M. Harle, both of Cape Coral and his paternal grandmother Mary Elizabeth Kinney of Louisville, KY. Friends may visit with the family from 12:00 - 4:00 PM on Sunday (today) at the Cape Coral Memorial Funeral Home, 3740 Del Prado Blvd. Memorial contributions may be made to the Lee County Humane Society. via Kim, slightly edited, from the Fort Myers News-Press
MELVIN F DOWNING SR (FMHS 1952) 2003-10-03 Melvin F. Downing, Sr., 71, of Bokeelia, FL. died September 28, 2003. Mr. Downing was born June 18, 1932 in Oahu, Hawaii, a son of the late George and Estelle Whitworth Downing. He was retired from Lowe's where he had been employed for several years as a Store Manager. He was a Veteran of the US Army serving from 1951-1956 attaining the rank of First Sergeant. He was a member of Kiwanis International and resided in Bokeelia for the past 15 years coming from Texas. He is survived by his sons, Melvin (Sally) Downing, Jr. of New Castle, DE. and Chris (Angie) Downing of Sevierville, TN. 3 grandchildren, Kyra, Nathan and Talia. A brother, George Downing of Hawaii and a sister, Barbara Uhlar of Massachusetts. Step-father, John Uhlar of Pine Island, nephews, Tim, Gary, David and Jeff Uhlar and niece Arden Uhlar.. Also survived by his extended family, Susie, Gail, Keith, Sheryl and Beverly Robertson. Funeral services will be held Friday, Oct. 3, 2003 at 1:00PM in the chapel of Coral Ridge Funeral Home. The family will receive friends from 12 Noon until service time. Interment will be in Coral Ridge Cemetery. Slightly edited, from the Fort Myers News-Press
BARBARA JEAN DOWNING (UHLAR) (FMHS 1951) 2004-10-15 Barbara Downing Uhlar, 73, formerly of Pine Island, FL passed away Sunday in a nursing home in Westfield, MA, where she had lived since her husband Mike passed away in 1996. She moved there to be near her daughter, Arden and her family. Barbara was born and raised in Hawaii., surviving Pearl Harbor. She moved to Ft. Myers at the age of 14, then to Pine Island, where she had lived most of her adult life. Barbara worked for the Lee County School District for many years, before being stricken with Alzheimer's in 1989. Barbara leaves behind her five children; Tim, David, Gary, Jeff all who reside in Florida and her daughter, Arden who lives in Massachusetts. Barbara leaves 8 grandchildren, Eileen, John Michael, Christopher, Nichole, Bryant, Kristina, Brandon, and Shannon, and a brother, George in Hawaii. She will be buried next to her husband, Michael Uhlar, Jr. Visitation will be held Thursday, Oct. 14, 2004 from 6-8 PM in the chapel of Coral Ridge Funeral Home. The funeral mass will be at St. Cecilia's Catholic Church in Ft. Myers TODAY at 1:00 PM. Interment will follow in Ft. Myers Memorial Gardens Cemetery. The family asks that instead of flowers, donations to the Alzheimer's Association in memory of Barbara. =PICTURE= Slightly edited, from the Fort Myers News-Press
PATRICIA JOANN "PATTY" TINSLEY (HARRELL)(BEMBRY) (FMHS 1965) 1999-05-20 Patricia T. (Patty) Bembry, 51, of Punta Gorda, died May 19, 1999. She was born in Fort Myers Dec. 15, 1947. A daughter of Bill and Betty Tinsley she attended schools in Fort Myers and graduated from Fort Myers High School. She also graduated from Edison Community College School of Nursing and worked for Lee Memorial Health System for over 29 years. She was a member of Sweet Adelines City of Palms Chapter, Assistant Director, A Quartet Member, and a candidate for the International Judging Program. Patty is survived by her parents; second husband of 30 years, Ronald; her son, Christopher; her son and daughter-in-law, Curtis and Sharon Harrell all of Fort Myers; her brother and sister-in-law, Wood and Colleen Tinsley of Fort Myers; her grandchildren: Samantha and C.J. Harrell, and several nieces and nephews. From caring for people to singing and running, Patty Bembry loved her family, friends and life. On May 19, 1999, Patty won life's race. Patty was the wife of Ronnie Bembry for 29 years; the mother of Chris Bembry and Curt Harrell; the daughter of Betty and Bill Tinsley; the daughter-in-law of Nona Bembry and the late Calvin Bembry; sister of Wood Tinsley; and sister-in-law of Susie Catlett, Angie Tryon, Patty Metzger, and Colleen Tinsley. A native of Fort Myers, Patty's presence was felt in so many areas. Her voice graced the City of Palm's Sweet Adeline Chorus for over 30 years. She also sang baritone for the Melange Quartet. She appeared at many events, including regional competitions, county fairs, and nursing homes. Patty recently qualified as a Candidate in the International Judging Program and was assistant director for the Chorus. Patty's caring touch as a surgical intensive care unit nurse comforted patients at Lee Memorial Hospital for nearly 30 years. She was recently honored when Lee Memorial Hospital recognized nurses with 30 years of service. She was a graduate of Fort Myers High School and Edison Community College Nursing Program. Patty was also active in sports, and especially enjoyed 5-K runs. She competed in many local races, including the Edison Pageant of Light Run. Patty's fifteen year battle with cancer never dampened her spirit and love of life. Her strength in facing daily challenges never faded. Despite her long term illness, she inspired all who knew her with her enthusiasm and determination. Family and friends remember Patty as the 'giver", always caring for others and always celebrating life to the fullest. Her legacy of love will continue forever. The family will receive friends at the Cape Coral Memorial Funeral Home, 3740 Del Prado Blvd., Cape Coral on Friday, May 21 from 5 - 8 p.m. A funeral service will be conducted at McGregor Baptist Church on Saturday, May 22, 1999 at 10:30 a.m. A private family Graveside interment will be in Fort Myers Memorial Gardens Cemetery. =PICTURE= CAPE CORAL MEMORIAL FUNERAL HOME 3740 DEL PRADO BLVD. 542-3161 Slightly edited, from the Fort Myers News-Press
LUCIAN FREEMAN "TOMMY" THOMAS (FMHS 1957) 08-29-2005 Lucian "Tommy" Thomas, a 66 year old resident of Trenton, Missouri, passed away Monday, August 29, 2005 at his home where he was under hospice care. Mr. Thomas was born on August 6, 1939 at Jacksonville, Florida the son of Lucian Freeman and Bella Jane Bain Thomas. On June 7, 1981 he was married to Brenda Kay Holden at Laredo, Missouri. Lucian's family moved to Fort Myers, Florida in 1941. He graduated from Fort Myers High School with the class of 1957 and then attended Florida State University where he was a member of Phi Delta Theta and played varsity baseball. He was in business with his father at Weld-Rite in Fort Myers, Fl. He then traveled with several pipeline construction companies until 1983 when he became employed by Crown Service. In 1994, he was employed with Premium Standard Farms and worked there until his health forced retirement in March of 2004. Lucian loved to hunt, fish, and follow his Florida State Seminoles in all sports. Mr. Thomas is survived by his wife, Kay Thomas of the home in Trenton, Missouri; 2 daughters, Brenda Thomas of Trenton, Missouri and Anna, now Mrs. Thomas Schiffers, of Charlotte, North Carolina; a brother Newn and his wife, Shelly of Cape Coral, Florida; 2 sisters, Donna, now Mrs. Paul Hay of Longwood, Florida and Janet, now Mrs. Bob Valentine of Lakeland, Florida; grandchildren, Olivia and Thomas Schiffers; his mother-in-law, Mrs. Geneva Holden of Chillicothe, Missouri and several nieces and nephews. He was proceeded in death by his parents. Funeral services will be at 11:00 a.m., Friday, September 2, 2005, at Laredo Christian Church. A family visitation will be held Thursday evening from 7:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Resthaven Mortuary. In lieu of flowers, the family has suggested memorials to Relay for Life. These may be left or mailed to Resthaven Mortuary, box 587, Trenton, Missouri. The body will be cremated following the services. =PICTURE= via Brenda Thomas
FLOYD F "TOOTSIE" BARNES (FMHS 1945) 2000-06-18 Floyd F. (Tootsie) Barnes, 73, of Bokeelia, died June 15, 2000. A native of Laurel, Mississippi, he had been a life long resident of Bokeelia. He served in the US Navy during WWII and was a member of the Lee County Conservation Assoc. and the Organized Fishermen in Florida for 33 years. Mr Barnes was a commercial fisherman and held the first commercial license issued by the State Of Florida. He is survived by his wife, Louise Barnes of Bokeelia; one sister, Margie Zammerilla (FMHS 1940) of North Fort Myers; two step-sons, R. Logan Hipple of Ochlacknee, Georgia, and Dan L. Hipple of Moore Haven; two nephews, Nick Zammerilla of Cape Coral and David Zammerilla of North Fort Myers; and a niece, Donna Neff of North Fort Myers. Memorial services will be conducted Monday morning from the First Baptist Church of Pine Island, 5363 Ave. D, Pine Island Center, at 10:00 a.m., with Chaplain Tom Rickards officiating. Cremation will follow. Arrangements are by the Anderson Funeral Home, 3654 Palm Beach Blvd. Slightly edited, from the Fort Myers News-Press
JAMES DAN BEALL (FMHS 1925) 2005-11-15 =PICTURE= J. Dan Beall, 97, of Ft. Myers went to be with the Lord November 13, 2005, he was a 14 year resident of Grand Court. Dan was born in Decatur, GA, a son of William E. and Carol B. Beall. He moved to Ft. Myers in 1920, he served in the U.S. Navy as a Seabee during WW II. Dan was the retail buyer and president of M. Flossie Hill Co., before retiring in 1973. He was a member of the First Baptist Church, and was the oldest deacon of the church. Mr. Beall is survived by his nephews, grandnephews and nieces, he was predeceased by his wife of 67 years Elizabeth in 2003. A memorial funeral service celebrating his life will be conducted in the First Baptist Church, 1735 Jackson St., Ft. Myers, FL, 33901 on Thursday at 2 PM, there will be a memorial visitation at the church from 130-2 PM. At the conclusion of the service there will be a reception at the church hall. In his memory memorial contributions may be made to First Baptist Church at the above address. Entombment will be in Ft. Myers Memorial Gardens Cemetery. Ft. Myers Memorial Gardens, 239-936-0555. Via Kim, slightly edited, from the Fort Myers News-Press
INGRID FREYBE (FARMER) (FMHS 1966) 2000-09-21 Ingrid Freybe Farmer, 51, of Fort Myers, died Tuesday, Sept. 19, of acute myelogenous leukemia. She was born in Hamburg, Germany and immigrated with her family to the U.S. in 1953. She was a registered nurse dedicated to the care of others for 25 years. Her love for art and beauty was shown in her distinctive pottery that was sold throughout the United States. She will be remembered for the tremendous love she gave and the beauty she generated. She is survived by her daughters, Kristen Deming of Fort Myers, Shannon Farmer of Lakeland, FL; son Scott Farmer of Orlando, FL and a granddaughter, Kayla; her fiance John Higgins of Seville, OH; her parents Hans and Elli Freybe of Fort Denaud, FL; her brother, Hal Freybe (FMHS 1965) of Stuart, FL; sisters, Evelyn Freybe (MCCORD) Banzhaf (FMHS 1969) of Cincnnati, OH, Margie Freybe Geddes (FMHS 1972) of Kingston, Jamaica, Shirley Freybe Tronoski of Fort Myers and nieces and nephews Lisa, Allison, Myles, and Hileah. In her loving memory her family asks that you join them at Centennial Park for the "Light the Night" walk for The Leukemia, Lymphoma Society. Registration is at 6:30 p.m. The short walk takes place at 7:30 p.m. Rain moves the walk to the Exhibition Hall. Following the walk friends and family will meet upstairs at Varians at Patio De Leon for a memorial and celebration of Ingrid. If you are unable to attend the walk, memorials can be sent to: Leukemia and Lymphoma Society 13907 North Dale Mabry Highway Suite 101 Tampa, FL 33618. =PICTURE= Slightly edited, from the Fort Myers News-Press
HERBERT JACOB "HERB" BICKEL JR (FMHS 1948) 2005-12-03 Herbert Jacob Bickel, Jr. of Frisco, Texas passed away at his home surrounded by his family on December 2, 2005. He was born in Evanston, Illinois, on February 20, 1930 to Herbert and Jean Meadows Bickel. He is survived by his wife of 51 years, Joan Hough Bickel (FMHS 1949), and his three sons, David, Daniel and John. Herb attended grade school in the Chicago area and moved to Florida during High School. He graduated from Fort Myers High School in 1948 where he played varsity sports lettering in Track. He earned a BS in Business Administration from the University of Florida in 1952. From 1952-1954 Herb served his country during the Korean conflict as a First Lieutenant in the Army. Following his service, he received his Masters of Science in Industrial Management from Georgia Institute of Technology where he was a student instructor. He later did post- graduate work at MIT. He was employed by the Texas Eastern Transmission Corporation in Houston, Texas, in 1957 as an analyst. During his 23 year tenure with the company Herb served in numerous capacities including Treasurer and Group Vice President of Plans and Controls. During this time he was on loan to the Senate Interior Committee and participated in the White House study on fuel technology. He testified before the Federal Power Commission and published numerous reports for the White House Office of Science and Technology. Herb was a visiting lecturer at Penn State University, and served on committees for the American Gas Association and the Independent Petroleum Association of America. The Bickel family relocated to Dallas in 1980 where Herb served as Senior Vice President Finance for Saxon Oil Company. He later served as President of May Petroleum and then Resource Savings. In 1987, Herb acquired StatLab Medical Products. Working with his three sons, Herb used his extensive business experience to develop the company. Herb served his community as the President of the Hickory Ridge Board of Directors while in Houston, as a Director for the Bolo Point Water Supply Company, and most recently as a member of the Stonebriar Board of Directors in Frisco. He was an Honorary member of the Texas Society for Histotechnology. He attended the First United Methodist Church of Frisco. He will be missed by many, but especially his son, David Bickel, daughter-in-law Denise, and grandchildren, Lindsey and Andrew Bickel of Plano; son, Daniel Bickel, daughter-in-law Laura, and grandchildren, Courtney, Kyle and Todd Bickel of McKinney; son, John Bickel and daughter-in-law Mary, and grandchildren, Jonathan Gentry, Virginia and Eva Bickel of Frisco. He is survived by his brother, Gary Bickel and sister-in-law Ilene of Bonita Springs, Florida. Visitation will be held at Sparkman-Hillcrest Funeral Home Sunday, December 4, 2005 from 3:00-5:00 p.m. Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Monday, December 5, 2005 at Sparkman- Hillcrest Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Doug Miller officiating. Interment will follow at Hillcrest Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers please send donations to the Herbert Bickel Memorial for the Hematology-Oncology Research Fund. Checks may be made payable to: Univ. of Texas Southwestern Medical Center. Mail to: Office of Development, U2SWMC, PO Box 910888, Dallas, TX 75391-0888. =PICTURE= Via NM, slightly edited, from the Fort Myers News-Press Hail and farewell, my good friend, good man. tgs
JULIA E "JUDY" DICKSON (WILLIAMS) (FMHS 1937) 2004-04-27 Julia E. Dickson Williams, born May 7, 1919 in Ft. Myers, died Friday, April 23, 2004. She was a granddaughter of Edward Marshall Williams a pioneer whose family moved to the Ft. Myers area in 1883. She was a lifelong resident of Ft. Myers. Julia was predeceased by her husband Clare J. Williams (FMHS 1936). She was a partner in Frey's Prescription Shop until her retirement, a member of the Lee Memorial Hospital Auxiliary for over 35 years and a volunteer with the SW Florida Historical Society. She is survived by sons Larry G. (Hannelore) Williams (FMHS 1957)and Gary A. (Trudy) Williams (FMHS 1960), sister Margaret D. Frey * (FMHS 1936), 6 grandchildren, 12 great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews. Funeral service will be on Wednesday April 28, at 11:00 AM, family will greet visitors one hour prior to service at Anderson Funeral Home, 3654 Palm Beach Blvd., Chaplain Tom Rickards will officiate. Interment will follow at Ft. Myers Cemetery on Michigan Ave. Donations may be made in her memory, to Lee Memorial Hospital Auxiliary or the SW Florida Historical Society, PO Box 1381, Ft. Myers, FL 33902. Slightly edited, from the Fort Myers News-Press
JENNIFER ANNE REEVES (VIVES) (FMHS 1990) 2005-12-04 Jennifer Anne Reeves Vives, 33, of Fort Myers, passed away suddenly on December 1, 2005, in the presence of her beloved family. Jennifer was born March 4, 1972, at Lee Memorial Hospital. She graduated from Fort Myers High School and Edison Community College, and was a member of McGregor Baptist Church. She previously worked as an office manager for the Corbin Henderson Company. She enjoyed reading, cooking, shopping, and above everything else, she devoted her life to her husband and daughter. She was a longtime resident of the area, and will be greatly missed. She is survived by her husband, Mauricio, daughter, Natalie, and step- daughter, Shaina, of Minnesota; mother, Ella Jean Reeves; father, Antone Reeves, of Sarasota; sisters, Jeannine Bruner (Jay) of Biloxi, MI and Amy Elizabeth Earl (Steve) (FMHS 1989) of Orlando; brother, Mark Reeves; grandmother, Jeannette Reeves, Norcross, GA; six adored nieces and three loved nephews; numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins. Visitation will be held at Fort Myers Memorial Gardens Funeral Home, 1589 Colonial Blvd., on Monday evening, December 5, from 5:00-7:00 PM. Funeral services will be conducted on Tuesday morning, December 6, at 10:30 AM. Via Kim, slightly edited, from the Fort Myers News-Press
ANNA MARGARET DICKSON (FREY) (FMHS 1936) 2005-03-17 Margaret Dickson Frey, 87, of Ft. Myers died March 14, 2005 at Ft. Myers. A native of Jacksonville, she was born February 3, 1918. She was the granddaughter of Edward Marshall Williams whose pioneer family moved to Ft. Myers in 1883. Mrs. Frey had been a partner in Frey's Prescription Shop, with her husband and sister, until she retired. Survivors include her son William M. and wife Diene Frey of Temple Terrace, Florida, her two daughters Mary Smallwood of Tallahassee and Carolyn and Stephanie Clark, Lindsay Spradley, Katherine Smallwood, Robert Frey, Stephen Frey and Amanda Frey, three great-grandchildren, Aiden and Brennan Spradley and Stephen Chess, her nephews Larry Williams and Gary A. Williams. Mrs. Frey was preceded in death by her husband Melvin and her sister Julia E. Williams. Graveside funeral services will be 11:00 AM Saturday, March 19, 2005 in the city of Ft. Myers Cemetery with Chaplain Mark Shuey officiating. The family suggests memorial contributions be made to The Southwest Florida Historical Society, P.O. Box 1381, Ft. Myers, Florida 33902. Arrangements by Anderson Funeral Home, 3654 Palm Beach Blvd., Ft. Myers. Slightly edited, from the Fort Myers News-Press
IRENE BUFFINGTON (ROSSER) (JOHNSON) (FMHS 1952) 2005-10-12 In loving memory of Irene Buffington Johnson, age 71 passed away October 1, 2005 in the loving hands of Hospice in Cape Coral, FL. She was a resident of Franklin, NC for many years. She is survived by her daughter, Deborah Rosser-Kent, son, H. Michael Rosser, sister, Laurie Hart and brother, Tuck Buffington. She had four grandchildren, Nancy, Jeremy, Summer and Tasmen and one great-grandchild Stephen. Her remains will be laid to rest in the mountains of NC at her request. Family request in lieu of flowers donations should be made to Hospice. Slightly edited, from the Fort Myers News-Press
MICHAEL BURCHIANTI (FMHS 1980) 11-12-1994 Michael passed away November 12, 1994 from complications of pneumonia. He had completed college and was attending graduate school in San Diego and LaJolla, Ca., majoring in mathematics & computer science. He was an excellent student. Michael was employed as a computer programmer prior to his demise. His favorite sporting activity was swimming. Michael is survived by his sisters Therese & Mary and brother John and mother & father. =PICTURE= Via Robert Campbell FMHS 1980
JAMES RANDALL "RANDY" KELLEY (FMHS 1959) 2005-09-22 Randy Kelley, husband, father, son and friend was deeply loved and will be most sorely missed. Randy, Son of Mary Parmalee of Fort Myers, died very unexpectedly on Sunday afternoon at his home. Randy was an exceptional husband to Joy, a proud father of his son Rob Kelley of Fort Myers and his daughter Krissy Uriarte of Rimrock Arizona, wife of Ozzie. Their child, Gabriel was the Apple of his granpops eye. He was also "Dad" for Joys children Gwen and Rick Hutto of Lehigh Acres and Josh and Holly Ballinger of Fort Wayne Indiana. He will also be dearly missed by Joys oldest son Tucker Ballinger and his wife Kay. Randy & Joy shared in loving 5 grandchildren. Gabriel Uriarte, Bella & Benton Ballinger and Samuel and Grace Kelley Ballinger. He will be missed as a son by his mother and father-in-law, Jack and Gwen Connell of Fort Myers. The Celebration of Life will be held Saturday the 24th at 11:00 AM at Randy & Joys church, Grace United Methodist, Olga Campus, located at 14036 Matanzas Drive, Fort Myers, FL 33905 just off Route 80, Palm Beach Blvd. Dress will be casual as Randy was happiest in blue jeans, tee shirt and a ball cap. There will be refreshments and time for fellowship after the service. In lieu of flowers the family would appreciate donations made in his name to Gulf Coast Chrysalis, an organization dear to Randy's heart. Via Joy, slightly edited, from the Fort Myers News-Press
STEVEN WADE YEOMANS FMHS 1989 2005-12-11 Steven Wade Yeomans, 37, of Cape Coral died Dec. 4, 2005. He was born in Fort Myers, a graduate of Fort Myers High School and Tampa Tech. A member of New Testament Baptist Church and employed at Publix Supermarket. Steve is the son of the late Bobby Yeomans. He is survived by his Mother Darlyne Yeomans and his brother Todd Yeomans, several local extended family members. Memorial service, with fellowship to follow will be held Saturday, Dec. 17th at 10:00 AM at New Testament Baptist Church with Pastor Bill Roan conducting. Memorial contributions may be made to New Testament Baptist Church. Via Kim, slightly edited, from the Fort Myers News-Press
MARY LEITNER (ALVRUS) (FMHS 1926) May 20, 1986 Mary Leitner Alvrus, 78, of Fort Myers, died May 18, born in Estero, Fla., she had been a lifetime resident of Lee County. She was the daughter of K. A. and Ada Bedell Leitner and was preceded in death by her husband Mack Alvrus in 1976. She was a member of the Lee Memorial United Methodist Church of Bonita Springs, Caloosahatchee Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution, the Letitia Ashmore Nutt Chapter, United Daughters of the Confederacy, Lee County Pioneer Club and the Magna Carta Dames. She is survived by a daughter, Ann White and two sons, Jack and Bobby Alvrus, all of Fort Myers, son-in-law, Gene White and a daughter-in- law Vivian Alvrus, three sisters, Sarah Leitner Burke (FMHS 1926), her twin sister of Fort Myers, Alice Bedell Leitner Conner (FMHS 1928) of Tampa, Fla., and Doris L. Leitner Barfield (FMHS 1932) of Clermont, Fla., grandchildren, Leanne, Sarah Ann Alvrus White (FMHS 1961), Mary Jewel, Eugene White, Annalisa, Rebekka and Manuel Jackson Alvrus (FMHS 1954). Funeral services will be held Wednesday, May 21 at 2 p.m. at the North Fort Myers Funeral Home, 870 Pondella Rd., with Rev. Waldo Farabee officiating. =PICTURE= Via Annalisa Alvrus, slightly edited, from the Fort Myers News-Press
RICHARD T "DICK" CHAPPELLE SR (FMHS 1940) 2005-11-06 Richard T. Chappelle Sr., 83, passed away Wednesday November 2, 2005. He was born in Fort Myers (Iona) the son of the late Fred and Fredia Chappelle and was predeceased by his wife of 48 years Gloria Crumpler Chappelle (FMHS 1945) and his brother John (FMHS 1938). Richard and Gloria were descendants of pioneers of Fort Myers and Lee County. Richard joined the U.S. Marine Corps in 1942 and served his country in the Pacific Theater during WWII. He was proud to have been a a tail gunner of "DAUNTLESS" fighter plane. After his service he returned home and to his love of the water. He was the foreman for the Kinzie Brothers Steamer Line. He oversaw the four ferry boats that provided service from Punta Rassa to Sanibel and Captiva Islands prior to the construction of the Sanibel causeway. In 1960 he took employment with the U.S. Postal Service. He remained at the local office until his retirement 22 years later. During the 1960's he was one of the founding members of the Iona- McGregor Volunteer Fire Department and served as one of the department's first Volunteer Fire Chiefs. While he had a great love for the old-Florida outdoors, he will be remembered by his children & grandchildren for his strong, quiet, gentlemanly guidance in life. Richard is survived by his children; Jeannie C. Bass and her husband Jim; Fire Chief of Fort Myers, Richard T. Chappelle Jr. and his wife Bonnie; Major Matthew A. Chappelle (retired) of the Fort Myers Police Department and his wife Sherry; John M. Chappelle; Laura Leigh Gray and her husband Matthew, and grandchildren; Jennifer and Jeannie Bass; Eric, Emily, Mollie and Kimberly Chappelle; Melissa, Amanda and Jessica Chappelle and several nieces and nephews and numerous friends. The family receive friends and relatives 2 PM to 5 PM Tuesday and 9 AM to 10 AM Wednesday at the Harvey-Engelhardt-Metz Funeral Home, 1600 Colonial Blvd., Fort Myers. Funeral services will be conducted by Rev. Victor Willis at 10 AM Wednesday with interment to follow at Fort Myers Memorial Gardens Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations to honor Richard may be made to the SouthWest Florida Historical Society at 10091A McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers, FL 33919. =PICTURE= Via Kim, slightly edited, from the Fort Myers News-Press
MARY COOK "JUDY" STEVENSON JERZ (FMHS 1958) 2005-11-02 Mary S. "Judy" Jerz, 65, of Fort Myers, beloved wife, mother and friend, passed away suddenly on October 30, 2005. Born Mary Cook Stevenson in Warrenton, NC on May 17, 1940 to Pauline and Ervin Stevenson. Judy moved to Fort Myers, Florida in 1950 and attended Fort Myers High School, graduating with the class of 1958. She worked in downtown Fort Myers at M. Flossie Hill's dress shop and met William Jerz, whom she married on October 18, 1959 at St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church. They were married for 29 years until William's death in 1989. Judy worked at Allen Park Elementary School for 18 years, then was a dedicated volunteer for Second Art thrift store and ACT, and she was a parishioner at St. Francis Xavier Church. She enjoyed spending time with her family and friends. Her kind and generous nature will be greatly missed. Judy is survived by her loving children, Lisp (Bob) Walsh, Julie (Phil) Baker, Patti (Steve) George and Alan Jerz; her grandchildren Justin Walsh, Jeremy Walsh, Morgan Baker and Lauren Baker; and her sister Nancy Kempson. She was preceded in death by her parents and sister, Ann Wortham. The family will receive friends on Thursday, November 3, 6:00 - 8:00 PM at Harvey-Engelhardt-Metz Funeral Home, 1600 Colonial Blvd. A memorial mass will be celebrated at St. Cecilia's Catholic Church, 5632 Sunrise Drive, on Friday, November 4, at 10:00 AM, followed by the burial at Fort Myers Memorial Gardens on Colonial Blvd. In lieu of flowers, contributions in her memory can be made to American Heart Association, American Lung Association or ACT (Abuse Counseling and Treatment Center), P.O. Box 60401, Fort Myers, Florida 33906. Slightly edited, from the Fort Myers News-Press
RICHARD H "DICK" HANSON (FMHS 1943) 1998-10-11 Richard H. (Dick) Hanson, 73, passed away peacefully at his home on Friday, October 9, 1998, after a brave and courageous battle with ALS (Lou Gehrig's Disease). He was a 57-year resident of Fort Myers, moving here in 1941 from Pittsburgh, Penn., where he was born on September 19, 1925. He graduated from Fort Myers High School in 1943 and later that year married his wife of 54 years, Velma Towler. He was self-employed as an investor in real estate. He had been a member of Pilgrim's United Church of Christ for ten years. He is survived by his wife, Velma; three sons, Larry, Gary (Debbie) of Fort Myers, and Dean of Orlando; four grandchildren, Shelley Hanson Ural and Stephen Hanson of Houston, Tex., and Shannon and Amber Hanson of Fort Myers; four great-grandchildren; and his mother, Leona E. Hanson of Fort Myers. He was predeceased by his father, Harold A. Hanson in 1974. A memorial service will be held at Pilgrim's Church, 13500 Freshman Lane (off Daniel's Parkway) on Monday, October 12, at 2:00 p.m. The family requests that in lieu of flowers, all contributions be made to the ALS Association, 21021 Ventura Blvd., Suite 321, Woodland Hills, CA 91364-2206. Slightly edited, from the Fort Myers News-Press
ERMA NAOMI "MONKEY" LAMPP (BOYETT) (FMHS 1939) 2001-12-21 Erma L. Boyett, age 79, of South Fort Myers, left this earth life to enter life in the world beyond on December 20, 2001. She was born January 13, 1922 in Englewood, FL and moved to Fort Myers when she was 1 years old. Left to cherish her memory is son, James A. Boyett; daughters: Deborah A. Honnoll, Sharon B. Young; granddaughters: Kimberly D. Barselou, Christina M. Suero; grandson, David E. Locke II; great-granddaughter, Kayla J. Locke; great-grandson, Thomas M. Barselou; brothers, Alvin and Ray Lampp; sister, Iris Fleming; long time friend Leota Barco and many nieces and nephews and their extended families. A memorial service for family and friends will be held on Saturday, December 22, at 4:00 p.m. at the home of Erma L./Jim Boyett 4141 Santa Maria Drive, South Fort Myers. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her name to Habitat for Humanity of Lee County, Inc. 1288 N. Tamiami Trail, North Fort Myers, ==PICTURE== Slightly edited, from the Fort Myers News-Press
EUNICE KATHERYNE "EUNIE" ENGELHARDT (JONES) (FMHS 1930) 2001-01-09 Eunice Katheryne Engelhardt Jones, 88, longtime resident of Fort Myers passed away January 6, 2001. She moved here from Kansas in 1921. She graduated from Fort Myers High School and Florida State College for Women with a degree in Home Economics and taught at Fort Myers High School and N. Fort Myers High School until her retirement. She was an active member of First United Methodist Church, a member of the United Methodist Women, Esther Circle and the Altar Guild. Survivors include daughter Pam Thompson, Alpharetta, GA, granddaughter Kim (Mark)-Miklis of Plano, TX, grandson Kevin Thompson Alpharetta, GA, brother Charles (Cora) Engelhardt, Fort Myers, two nephews Rev. Charles Engelhardt, Largo, FL, Kevin Engelhardt, Fort Myers, two nieces Beverly Engelhardt and Susan Rhors, Fort Myers. She was predeceased by her parents, Louis and Bessie Engelhardt, brothers Paul and Leo Engelhardt. Funeral Service will be Wednesday January 10, at 11:00 a.m. at the First United Methodist Church Chapel with Rev. George A. Buie and Rev. Charles E Engelhardt, Jr. officiating. Visitation will be one hour prior to service. Interment following in Fort Myers Cemetery. Pallbearers: Kevin Engelhardt, Kevin Thompson, Mark Miklis, Drexel Crump, Clayton Johnson, Gee Johnson, Carl Johnson. Arrangements by the Anderson Funeral Home, Palm Beach Blvd, Fort Myers, Florida. ==PICTURE== Slightly edited, from the Fort Myers News-Press
JENNIFER WIGINGTON (LARSSON) (FMHS 1963) 2004-11-06 Jennifer Wigington died November 3, 2004. She is survived by her son Robin Larsson, her father Letcher Wigington, her sister Melissa Hinkle, brother-in-law Jack Hinkle, nieces Jennifer Wigington Weller and Jessica Hinkle, and nephew Grant Hinkle. A Fort Myers native who also resided on Sanibel Island and in Kenya, Jennifer embraced life with an intensity that inspired all who knew her. She was the first female certified scuba diver in the state of Florida and an activist and advocate for wildlife conservation in Africa. Her conservationist endeavors included tagging elephants, measuring coral reef re-growth, ecological research, and writing articles for Swara and other scientific journals. As a teacher at the International School of Kenya for Sixteen years, Jennifer always found new and creative ways to inspire her students. Jennifer traveled the world, climbed Mount Kilimanjaro, obtained her pilot's license, and occasionally went skydiving. She led numerous safaris and avidly documented her experiences and observations through photography. People throughout East Africa also knew her as a part of the service support team in the safari Rally in Kenya (an off- road car racing marathon). Jennifer was loved by people all over the world, and she will be missed. She will be taken to her home in Kenya, where she may be returned to the land she so loved. ==PICTURE== Donations may be made in her memory to the East African Wild Life Society, addressed to EAWLS, C/O Peter Bakker: 175 West 79th Street # 10 E; New York, NY. 10024. Checks are made payable to East Africa Wild Life Society. Arrangements by the Harvey Engelhardt Metz Funeral Homes and Crematory, Ft. Myers. Slightly edited, from the Fort Myers News-Press
ELIZABETH PERRY (ROMEIS) (FMHS 1931) 2002-07-19 Elizabeth Perry Romeis passed away at age 86. She was a lifetime resident of Ft Myers. Daughter of the late Francis Wright Perry and Jennie Cormack Perry, she is survived by her husband of 57 years, Lu Romeis of Ft Myers; by her two sons Ronald Alan (Margaret) Romeis of Devon, PA and Gordon Eric (Cynthia) Romeis of Ft Myers; by six grandchildren and one great granddaughter. She was the sister of . F. ('Chet') Perry of Ft Myers and the late Gordon Perry. Elizabeth was a devoted and exemplary Christian, active as a Sunday School teacher at First Christian Church from the time she was received into membership in 1932. She was a longtime member of the PEO, Chapter B. In 1934, Elizabeth was offered employment by Miss Flossie Hill, a spinster who operated a ladies' clothing and notions store on Main St. Over her 45 year career at M. Flossie Hill Co, Elizabeth became buyer and manager of the 'Ladies Trading Place', retiring as Vice President and part owner. Through the plentiful Florida 'boom times' of the 1920's and hard times during the Great Depression, through war times and the loss of beloved parents, Elizabeth's faith was strong and steadfast. She rejoiced always in God's many blessings in her life, and in turn, was a blessing to her family and friends. A Celebration of the Resurrection will be held at First Christiam Church on Monday, July 22 at 11:00 am to which all are invited. In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be directed to the Building Fund, First Chrstian Church, 2061 McGregor Blvd, Fort Myers, FL 33901. Slightly edited, from the Fort Myers News-Press
WILEY GENE PERRY JR (FMHS 1983) 2000-08-11 Funeral services for Wiley Gene Perry, Jr. will be 2:00pm, Saturday August 12, 2000 from the Hickson Funeral Home Chapel. Visitation will be 6-8 pm today from Hickson Funeral Home. Arrangements entrusted to Hickson Funeral Home, 3696 Dr. MLK Jr. Blvd., Fort Myers, FL. Slightly edited, from the Fort Myers News-Press
DELORES YOUMANS (MEREDITH) (FMHS 1956) 2005-02-21 Delores Meredith, 67, of Ft. Myers went to be with Jesus on 2/18/05. She was a lifelong resident of Ft. Myers and the beloved wife of Bob Meredith. She is survived by her children, Stacy West (Eric), Darryl Meredith (Sue) and Rene' Laurinaitis (Donnie), her grandchildren, Ryan West, Whitney West and Garrett Meredith, her sister Pat Ellis (FMHS 1947) and many beloved friends. Besides working with people, she loved to travel to the mountains, walking on the beach, watching westerns, listening to Christian music and spending time with her family and friends. Beloved wife, mother, mother-in-law, sister, grandmother and friend she will be greatly missed. Memorial service will be held Wednesday, Feb. 23rd, 1 PM, at Hope Hospice Chapel, 9470 HealthPark Cir., Ft. Myers, FL. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to Hope Hospice. Slightly edited, from the Fort Myers News-Press
LILLIAN CARSON (REICHLE) (FMHS 1933) 2004-11-01 Lillian C. Reichle, 89, died Saturday, October 30, 2004 in Tallahassee, FL after an extended illness. She was a former resident of The Palms in Ft. Myers. Born April 3, 1915 in Buckingham, FL, Ms. Reichle retired from Lee County Vo-Tech School as an instructor in the Cosmetology Department. She was also previously a former owner/operator of several beauty salons and a cosmetology school in Cayce, SC. She was a member of Cypress Lake Methodist Church, Ft. Myers. She was an avid golfer while a resident at Seven Lakes of Ft. Myers. Survivors include 2 nephews, J.S. Tarret, III of Prescott, AZ and Jimmy Forehand of Ft. Myers; three nieces, Loretta Walker of Woodville, FL, Sylvia Eder of Fairhope, AL and Kay Roach of Quincy, FL, also numerous great and great-great nieces and nephews; and Edith Knight, her caregiver. She was preceded in death by her later husband, Capt. H.C. Reichle, Jr; two sisters, Mary Forehand and Hazel Tarrer, and one brother, Curtis Carson. ==PICTURE== The funeral service will be Wednesday, November 3 at 11:00 AM at Ft. Myers Memorial Gardens Funeral Home, 1589 Colonial Blvd., (239) 936-0555 Ft. Myers with Rev. Bob Williams officiating. Family will receive friends one hour before the service. Burial will follow at Ft. Myers Memorial Gardens Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Big Bend Hospice, 1723 Mahan Center Blvd., Tallahassee, FL 32308. Slightly edited, from the Fort Myers News-Press
EARP, RUSTY D (FMHS 1967) 2004-12-07 EARP, RUSTY D., 55, of Ft. Myers, died Sunday. Arrangements by Ft. Myers Memorial Gardens Funeral Home. ==PICTURE== Slightly edited, from the Fort Myers News-Press
FRANCES MILLER ENGLAND (FMHS 1935) 1998-07-16 Frances M. England, 81, of Fort Myers, passed away on Wednesday. She was born in Fort Myers and was a Fort Myers public School Teacher for many years. Mrs. England was a graduate of Florida State University. She is survived by her loving daughter, Barbara Neff of Fort Myers and her son David England of Fort Myers and her granddaughter Brittany England. A private memorial service will be held at the Fort Myers Memorial Gardens Funeral Home. Committal will be in the Fort Myers Memorial Gardens Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the Gulf Coast Christian Fellowship Children's Fund 4982 Park Meadow Lane, Fort Myers, FL. 33907. ==PICTURE== FT. MYERS MEMORIAL GARDENS FUNERAL HOME 1589 COLONIAL BOULEVARD 936- 0555 Slightly edited, from the Fort Myers News-Press
NANCY VONCILE DEMOS (KEEN) (FMHS 1951-2) 2001-06-15 Nancy V. Demos (Keen) 67 of largo, FL died Sunday (June 10, 2001). She went to Largo 1983 from her Native Fort Myers, FL she was a homemaker. Survivors include a daughter Terese Galluccio of Largo, FL; two brothers, Jack Keen of Cayce, S.C., Harvey Keen of Lehigh Acres; two sisters, Georgia Drake of Lehigh Acres, Ruth Gaik, East Fort Myers, FL and three grandchildren. Slightly edited, from the Fort Myers News-Press
BYRDIA CHRISTINA STRICKLAND (CONOVER) (KROTINE) (FMHS 1935) 2002-10-16 Byrdia Strickland Conover Krotine 83, formerly of Ft. Myers and Tice, passed away at her residence in Punta Gorda. She was born December 26, 1918 in Bainbridge, GA. She relocated with her parents and six brothers and sisters to Ft. Myers in 1922 moving to Punta Gorda in 1934, when she married Haywood Conover. Haywood Conover and her second husband Ed Krotine preceded her in death. She is survived by her daughters, Holly Conover-Wade of Orlando, FL. and Jennifer Pearson of Spruce Pine, NC, grand daughters, Whitney and MacLean Wade and Jenny and Holly Pearson, a step daughter, Mary Lou Hershey of Lancaster, PA, and a sister, Olga Luttrell of Atlanta, GA, also survive. Funeral services will be held 3:00 P.M, Thursday, October 17, 2002 at the First United Methodist Church of Punta Gorda, FL. A visitation will be held from 1:00 P.M. to 3:00 P.M. at the church prior to funeral services. Burial will follow at Indian Springs Cemetery, Punta Gorda. Those who wish may make contributions in Mrs. Byrdia Conover Krotine's name to: First United Methodist Church of Punta Gorda, 507 W. Marion Ave., Punta Gorda, FL. 33950. Arrangements by the Punta Gorda Chapel of Kays-Ponger Royal Palm Funeral Home. Slightly edited, from the Fort Myers News-Press
ROBERT "BOB" HALGRIM (FMHS 1927) May 4, 2005 Fort Myers resident Robert Halgrim, who worked for Thomas Edison and was the first curator of the Edison winter home, died Monday at the Shady Rest Care Pavilion. He was 99. Halgrim, for whom Halgrim Street is named, moved to Fort Myers at age 10 and graduated from Fort Myers High School in 1927. Halgrim attended Cornell from 1927-29 but returned to Fort Myers before completing his four-year degree in horticulture. His famous friend and mentor Edison had encouraged his studies but then cut them short, Cornell President Emeritus Frank H.T. Rhodes said on April 26, when Halgrim received an honorary degree from Cornell. Halgrim went on to become a celebrated local hybridizer and collector of crotons, a colorful plant so favored by Edison that he once reportedly had the largest collection in the country at his winter residence. His son, Robert Halgrim, 62, of Alva, who took over as curator for his dad before retiring in 1993, said his father met Edison at the theater downtown, where Edison regularly went to watch silent movies and where Halgrim ran the projector. The senior Halgrim was a Sea Scout, an arm of the Boy Scouts of America that focuses on boating and swimming, and caught the interest of Edison. After Edison put a pool in his winter home, he recruited Halgrim to teach his grandchildren how to swim. The elder Halgrim remained lifelong friends with the Edisons and became curator of their home in 1948 after the estate was deeded to the city of Fort Myers. He retired as curator in the early 1970s. Visitation is set from 6-8 p.m. Thursday at the Harvey- Engelhardt-Metz Funeral Home at 1600 Colonial Blvd., Fort Myers. A memorial service is planned for 4 p.m. Friday at the First Presbyterian Church, 2438 Second St. ANOTHER ARTICLE ON ROBERT HALGRIM: Robert C. Halgrim of Ft. Myers passed away peacefully on Monday, May 2, 2005 at the Shady Rest Care Pavilion in Ft. Myers. Mr. Halgrim was born Sept. 9, 1905 in Humbolt, Iowa the son of Cornelius and Nellie Halgrim. He was preceded in death by his wife of 55 years Mary E. Halgrim. Mr. Halgrim is survived by his two sons, Robert (Caroline) Halgrim and Tommy (Venie) Halgrim, five grandchildren, John (Joanie) Halgrim, Bobby Halgrim, Erik (Summer) Halgrim, Chris Halgrim and Audrey (Matt) Strelo and seven great-grandchildren. Mr. Halgrim moved to Ft. Myers with his family in 1914. He graduated from Ft. Myers High School in 1926 and attended Cornell University from 1927 to 1929. Mr. Halgrim received an honorary certificate from Cornell University in April 2005 for his achievements and work at the Edison Winter Home. He served as the first curator of the Edison home from 1948 until he retired in 1971. During his life he was active as a member of the Ft. Myers Chamber of Commerce, Edison Pageant of Light, life member of the Lions Club and a founding member of the Fisherman's Class at the First Presbyterian Church. His primary hobby was collecting and hybridizing crotons. He also loved his work at the Edison Winter Home and it played a large role in influencing his life. Memorial service will be celebrated Friday, May 6th at 4:00 PM at the First Presbyterian Church, 2438 Second St. Family will receive friends Thursday May 5th from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM at the Harvey-Engelhardt-Metz Funeral Home, 1600 Colonial Blvd. The family requests in lieu of flowers, memorials be made to the Fisherman's Class at First Presbyterian Church. ==PICTURE== via Kim, slightly edited, from the Fort Myers News-Press
JOHN DAVID "JAY" ["JD"] PENDARVIS (FMHS 1950) 2004-06-24 John David (Jay, J.D.) Pendarvis entered heaven Jan. 2, 2004. Family and friends are invited to join in a memorial service on Saturday, June 26, 2004 at 2:00 PM at Lighthouse Baptist Church, 12800 Orange River Blvd., Ft. Myers, FL. ==PICTURE== Slightly edited, from the Fort Myers News-Press
ALICE ELIZA CLEMENT (FMHS 1937) 2005-12-21 Alice Eliza Clement, 89, of Ft. Myers died December 19, 2005 at Hope Hospice. She was born August 14, 1916 in Dade City, Fl. To her parents the late Leon M. and Mary Blanche Clement. Alice was a life long resident of Ft. Myers. She was a 1937 graduate of Ft. Myers High School. She retired from the City of Ft. Myers where she worked for over 30 years with the Clerk's office. Alice was a life time member of Tice United Methodist Church and a member of the Ft. Myers Pioneer Club. Survivors include her two sisters Mary Ann Smith (FMHS 1936), Lake Wales, Fl, and Thelma B. Mays, Ft. Myers. One brother William Faye, (FMHS 1945) Ft. Myers and many nieces and nephews. Alice was preceded in death by her parents, two brothers L.M. Clement, Jr.(FMHS 1942) and Lewis Clement and one sister Elizabeth Clement (FMHS 1941). ==PICTURE== Funeral Services will be conducted 1100 AM Saturday December 31, 2005 at Tice United Methodist Church. The family will receive friends Friday evening at the Harvey-Engelhardt Funeral Chapel between the hours of 600 and 800 PM. Burial will take place 1000 AM Saturday January 7, 2006 at The Ft. Myers City Cemetery. Arrangements by Harvey-Engelhardt-Metz Funeral Homes and Crematory, Ft. Myers via Kim, slightly edited, from the Fort Myers News-Press
MELISSA SUE SMALL GARCIA (FMHS 1990) 2000-01-14 GARCIA, MELISSA SUE, 27, Fort Myers, died Thursday. Services private. Arrangements by Harvey-Engelhardt-Metz Funeral Home, Fort Myers. via MA Small, slightly edited, from the Fort Myers News-Press
MARY ALICE SMITH BROWN (FMHS 1954) 2006-01-25 Mary Alice Brown, age 69, died January 18, 2006, after a lengthy struggle with various illnesses. Despite extraordinarily adverse health difficulties during the past several years, to the very end she lived her life to the fullest with a positive outlook, with strength, with dignity, with courage, with beauty, with love, and most of all, with faith. Her time here on this earth was not defined by her last few years of pain and suffering, though. She spent her life caring for and loving others and was a treasured friend of many. Mary Alice was the embodiment of 1 Peter 3:4, possessing"...the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is of great worth in God's sight." Mary Alice grew up in Florida and later lived in South Carolina, Alabama, and Tennessee. She was the beloved wife of 47 years to Jerry Brown (FMHS 1953); the cherished mother of David Brown, Stephanie Brown Spicer, and Kevin Brown; and the loving grandmother of Danielle and Jason Brown. Along with her immediate family, she leaves behind a dear extended family of aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, and nephews. Mary Alice was also a much-loved "second mom" to her "adopted" son, Reese Baker and her son- in-law, Roger Spicer. Visitation will be held from 10:00 to 11:00 Wednesday, (TODAY) January 25, at Ft. Myers Memorial Gardens, 1589 Colonial Boulevard, Ft. Myers, FL, with private burial following. ==PICTURE== via VBarnard, slightly edited, from the Fort Myers News-Press
CYRIL M "RED" SHEROUSE (FMHS 1934) 22 June, 1985 Cyril M. (Red) Sherouse 72, of Miami on June 21, 1985 following a brief illiness. Came to Miami in 1937 from his native Ft. Myers FL. He was employed in aircraft & home decorations industries & for many years was a Orange Bowl Scorekeeper. Survived by his loving wife of 48 years Mary Allen Sherouse of Miami, daughter Carole Morris of Orlando, & by his son Mark Allen Sherouse of Dallas TX; two grandchildren and one brother. A memorial service will held at the First Christian Church of North Dade 175 NW 128th St. Family requests that donations be made to the First Christian Church & Hospice, Inc 111 NW 10 Ave. Miami FL Via NM, from The Miami News on 22 June, 1985
ALBERT B SUMNER (FMHS 1938) 2006-02-02 Albert B. Sumner, 85, of Fort Myers, passed away Friday, January 27, 2006. He was born August 23, 1920 in Winter Haven and has lived in Fort Myers most of his life. He was a graduate of Fort Myers High School and delivered Fort Myers News Press for over 20 years and owned several businesses on Fort Myers Beach. Mr. Sumner is survived by three children; Susan Henderson (Rass) of Fort Myers, Albert "Ben" Sumner, Jr. (Tandy) of Naples and Steven M. Sumner (Darlene) of Fort Myers; a brother, John Edward Sumner of North Carolina; a sister, Madeline Meyer (FMHS 1941 *) of N. Fort Myers, grandchildren, Kim Brantley, Kathy Gonzales, Kelly Sanders (April) David Sumner (Lori), Eric Sumner (Julie), Ryan Sumner (Meylisa) and Andrew Sumner (Jenna); great-grandchildren; Natalie, Chris, Michael, Brendan, Amber, David, Michael, Tessia, Kamron, Laney and Morgan. He was preceded in death by his wife, Edna M. Sumner in 1999, parents; Joseph Clarence and Eula (Blount) Sumner and two brothers Clayton and Fred Sumner. Friends may visit with the family from Noon - 2 PM Sunday, February 5, 2006 at Fort Myers Memorial Gardens Funeral Home, 1589 Colonial Blvd. Private burial will follow in Fort Myers Memorial Gardens. Memorial contributions may be made to Hope Hospice of Lee County, 9470 HealthPark Circle, Fort Myers, FL 33908. ==PICTURE== via Kim, slightly edited, from the Fort Myers News-Press
IRIS DALE ABRAMS (FINGER) (FMHS 1957) 2006-01-28 Iris Dale Abrams Finger, 66, of Naples, died January 21, 2006. A memorial service will be held at Riverside Church, 8660 Daniels Parkway, Fort Myers on Monday, Jan. 30, at 1 PM. ==PICTURE== Slightly edited, from the Fort Myers News-Press
LAWRENCE A "LARRY" IRONS (FMHS 1968) 2006-01-31 Lawrence (Larry) A. Irons, 55 of Fort Myers, passed away Sunday January 29, 2006. He was born February 17, 1950 in Lakewood, New Jersey and resided in Fort Myers since 1962. He graduated Fort Myers High is 1968 and attended classes at Edison Junior College. He was a pool contractor and roofer and recently worked for Consumer Roofing Industries of Cape Coral. He is survived by a son, Jeremy, 17, his mother, Gladys M. Fulton and 2 brothers, Bob and Jeff Irons all of Fort Myers. A memorial service will be held at 100 PM, Feb. 3rd at Memorial Gardens Funeral Home with Reverend Mike Butler. Friends will be received from noon until the time of service Friday. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in his name to the American Heart Association. ==PICTURE== via Kim, slightly edited, from the Fort Myers News-Press
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