Kalas Funeral Home & Crematory

 NADA SYRNYK
 March 25, 1929—September 5, 2024


Nada Syrnyk passed away on September 5, 2024 at the age of 95. Nada was a wonderful mother to her only daughter, Irene Magdalena Syrnyk, and a devoted “Baba" to her granddaughters, Alexandra Syrnyk Sippel (Merkert), her princess, and Josefine Tighe Merkert, her angel. Being with family was her true vocation and focus. She also loved her son-in-law, J. Tighe Merkert and grandson-in-law, Jake Sippel, like the sons she never had.

Born in Yugoslavia, Nada would often say she "had a very hard life." By the age of 7, Nada and her sister, Maria (Kuehn), had lost both parents and were being raised by their grandparents. In 1943 as WW II raged on, Nada was forced to leave her native Yugoslavia at the age of 14 to escape the Russian invasion. She fled on foot with others from her town to a U.S. displacement camp in Bayreuth, Germany, nearly 900 miles away. There she met and later married Joseph Syrnyk, who was also forced to flee from his homeland in Ukraine.

In 1951, they emigrated to the USA through Ellis Island and settled in Chicago through a sponsorship program with U.S. citizens. Coming with no money, they both worked many jobs to make a better life for themselves. It took years for Nada to finally have a child after many miscarriages, so she cherished the birth of her only daughter, Irene, when she finally arrived 9 years later. Nada and Joe were very involved in their Ukrainian Catholic community, passing along their work ethic and the importance of education. Joe went on to build a successful plumbing company in Chicago. Nada and Joe had many years of happiness with their small family and many friends in Chicago. After 30 years, friends convinced them to move to Destin, Florida for Joe’s failing health.

Sadly, Joe passed away in 1991, at the young age of 64.  Soon after, Nada elected to sell the Florida house and all of her belongings to move to Severna Park, Maryland to be involved in the lives of Irene and her family. She achieved her true happiness by being with her daughter, caring for her grandchildren and staying engaged in their lives. In 2017, Nada suffered a debilitating spine issue and after many operations and therapy, moved in with Tighe and Irene, where she was loved and lived until her death. In addition to her immediate family, she leaves behind her great nephews, Justin (Amy) and Joseph (Kathryn) Kuehn of Wisconsin. Her devotion to family was truly the legacy of her challenging life journey. Her sweet demeanor and kind way will be missed by many.

Friends and family are invited to celebrate Nada's life on Friday, November 22, 2024 at 10:30 am at St. John Neumann Catholic Church, 620 N. Bestgate Road, Annapolis, MD 21401.

Inurnment will take place on October 9th at 1:00 PM at Cheltenham Veterans Cemetery: 11301 Robert S. Crain Hwy, Cheltenham, MD 20623. 

John Bernard Lauer, Jr., 77, passed away on September 4, 2024, in Annapolis, Maryland of natural causes surrounded by his family and friends. He was born on January 25, 1947, in Washington, DC to the late John Bernard Lauer Sr. and Ruth Dixon Lauer. John joined the National Guard after high school, and he was a Motor Transportation Operator. He was the owner of Lauer Construction which built custom homes for 55 years. His motto was that, “life is too short to live in a cookie cutter house”. He knew that a house should be more than 4 walls and a roof. It is a place where a solid foundation is formed, memories are made, and where love resides.  In addition, he had owned Gibson’s Lodgings, a Historical Inn, in downtown Annapolis for 30 years. Gibson’s allowed him to be a part of hosting family, friends and people from all around the world. He took great pride in every nook and cranny of the historical Inn to preserve each detail. He realized it was part of a larger story that was needed, so it would be cherished and remembered for generations to come.

John discovered his love for boating at the early age of 15 when he bought his first boat.  He enjoyed power boating, and he was a member of the West River Yacht Club for 50 years.  He shared his passion of being on the water with many friends and family with his favorite destination being the Crab Claw in St. Michael’s, MD. The trays of food would arrive, then the Polar Bear drinks would show up, and the laughs followed.

John was a generous host to family and friends, which allowed him to share his love of food. In his mind, to feed you was to love you. John could cook up a meal for many with very short notice due to a very well organized and always stocked pantry. His friends always joked that they always left John’s events with a full stomach and a fuller heart.  

John had a commitment to all creatures great and small. For years he owned a variety of animals and he appreciated their beauty. In his yard, he found great joy in taking care of the birds, fox, raccoons, deer and other critters that stopped by for a John Lauer meal.

John is survived by his loving wife, Corey Lauer; his daughter, Meredith Lauer (Russ); his stepsons, Jake and Rudy Poeschek; his sisters, Ruth Anne Dearybury, Kathy Curtin (Dan), and Lisa Wilson (Bob); his brother, Mike Lauer, along with many nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, John was preceded in death by his infant daughter, Shelly; his sisters, Pat Stouffer (Bob) and Margaret Bashioum; his brother, Joe Lauer (Diane) and his nephew, Steven Wilson.

John’s legacy is as solid as the homes that he built. He loved meeting people and if he didn’t know them before they quickly became friends. We all hope that there are plenty of blueprints and building permits in-hand as he continues his journey alongside others that have passed. May his memory live on through each meal he shared and every toast raised in his honor. John was a man that lived big, loved big and he left a big legacy behind that is, like him, larger than life.

Friends and family are invited to celebrate John’s life on Friday, September 13 from 2 to 4 and again from 6 to 8 pm at the Kalas Funeral Home and Crematory, 2973 Solomons Island Road, Edgewater, MD, where his funeral service will be held on Saturday, September 14 at 11 am. 

Condolences and tributes may be made by using the memories link on this page.  

Relatives and friends are invited to gather for Maxine's memorial service on October 11, 2024 from 10 a.m. until the start of the service at 11 a.m. at the KALAS FUNERAL HOME & CREMATORY, 6160 Oxon Hill Road, Oxon Hill MD 20745.

Relatives and friends are invited to celebrate Richard's life on Friday, September 20th from 10-11 AM until the start of the funeral service at 11 AM at the KALAS Funeral Home & Crematory, 6160 Oxon Hill Road Oxon Hill, MD 20745. 

Barbara A. Carr, 85, a resident of Edgewater, MD for the past five years and formerly of Richmond, VA, for 35 years, passed away peacefully from natural causes on Tuesday, September 3, 2024.

Born on April 22, 1939, in Federalsburg, MD, to the late Lloyd and Myrtle Marine, Barbara grew up in Federalsburg until she moved to Washington, DC for school where she met her late husband.   She dedicated 42 years of service to the federal government, including 15 years at the National Arboretum and later at the Defense General Supply Center until her retirement.

Barbara's love of music led her to sing in the choirs at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Landover Hills, MD, the Church of the Epiphany in Richmond, VA, and Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Church in Edgewater.  She was also passionate about sewing, embroidery, gardening, bird watching, and cats and dogs. A lifelong learner, she enjoyed Hallmark movies, Scrabble, and board games.

In addition to her parents, Barbara was preceded in death by her husband of 53 years, John B. Carr, and her brother, Jack L. Marine.

She is lovingly remembered by her four children: Catharine (William, Sr.) Portman of Victoria, VA, Sharon (Jeff) Carr of Edgewater, MD, Kevin (Irene) Carr of Powhatan, VA, and Carol Ann (Dennis) Rapine of Edgewater, MD; 10 grandchildren, 13 great grandchildren and one great-great grandchild. 

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Barbara's life on Wednesday, September 11, with visitation from 10:30 to 11:00 AM, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 11:00 AM at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Church, 515 Loch Haven Road, Edgewater. Interment will take place on Thursday, September 12, at 12:00 PM at Dale Memorial Park, 10201 Newbys Bridge Rd., Chesterfield, VA.



William E. Tucker, II (Billy) 84, passed away peacefully on September 2, 2024, after a courageous 5 year battle with cancer.

Billy was born on August 24, 1940, to the late Mary E. Tucker and Everett E. Tucker. He was a lifelong resident of Lothian, Maryland, and was a 1958 graduate of Southern High School.

After high school, he worked for the Library of Congress for a short period, but in 1959, he came home to work with his Dad on the family farm. 

Billy served in the National Guard and was honorably discharged on December 21, 1966.
He worked briefly as a Real Estate Agent for Howlin Realty but in 1988, he became the proprietor of Countryside Store and Video until 2016.

His favorite pastime was eating steamed crabs with family and friends as well as spending time with his 4 grandchildren.

He is survived by his loving wife, Janet of almost 60 years, his son, Garrett Lyons Tucker (Penny), his daughter, Lauren Tucker Myers (Charles) and his four grandchildren, Hannah and Griffin Tucker, Margaret (Maggie), and Wyatt Myers, also survived by his brother, Robert L. Tucker (Carol), and one sister, Sue Manifold (Donald). He was predeceased by his parents, Mary E. Tucker (Griffth) and E. Earl Tucker, and his one sister, Earleen Bowen (Lee).

Family and friends are invited to the celebration of life on September 5, 2024, from 1 to 3 pm and from 5 to 8 pm at the Kalas Funeral Home and Crematory, 2973 Solomons Island Road, Edgewater, Maryland 21037. A funeral service will be at Mt. Zion Methodist Church, 122 Bayard Road, Lothian, Maryland 20711 on Friday, September 6, 2024, at 10:00 a.m. Interment will follow at Mt. Calvary Church, 812 Marlboro Road, Lothian, Maryland 20711. 

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Ruritan National Foundation Scholarship Fund, c/o Bernard Lerch, 5407 Solomon's Island Road, Lothian, Maryland 20711


Thomas “Tom” McCarthy, Sr., 88, died peacefully in Christ on Friday, August 30, 2024 at his home surrounded by his loving family.

Tom was a devoted husband, brother, father, grandfather, and great grandfather, to his loving wife of 64 years, Catherine, his six children, his children in-law, 23 grandchildren, and 25 great-grandchildren.

Tom was born on April 29, 1936 in Mount Vernon, NY, the second of three children of the late Patrick Joseph and Catherine Jane McCarthy. From the age of five, Tom, his brother, Vincent and his sister, Mary were raised by their mother, who instilled in Tom a strong sense of independence, resilience and eternal optimism.  From the earliest age, he contributed to the survival of his family – working as many as three jobs simultaneously through elementary, middle and high school.  This strong work ethic lasted throughout his entire life. 

Tom proved to be an outstanding student, and was president and valedictorian of his graduating class of 1955 from Edison Technical High School. Following high school, he was accepted into the Stevens Institute of Technology in Hoboken, New Jersey, and during his freshman year received an appointment to the United States Naval Academy.  He arrived in Annapolis in 1956 and graduated from the Naval Academy in 1960, as the first person in his family to earn a college degree.  

Tom was a great lover of music, and was able to play music entirely by ear, on instruments which he taught himself to play.  In high school he regularly played the harmonica on commercial radio shows.  At the Naval Academy, he frequently played the grand piano located in Memorial Hall to the delight of lucky classmates and others nearby.  It was while playing this piano that Tom caught the ear and eventually the heart of his future wife, Catherine, who was touring the Academy with her grandfather.

Tom and Catherine were married at St. Mary’s Church in Annapolis on June 18, 1960, immediately following Tom’s graduation from the Naval Academy, and commissioning as a Second Lieutenant in the United States Air Force.  Early in his career, Tom was stationed in Texas and Florida, followed by Andrews Air Force Base, Maryland.  Upon completion of his active duty obligation in 1963, Tom accepted a job at Honeywell, designing and installing main frame computer systems, at the dawning of the Information Age. From Maryland, Tom moved his family to Australia where he led the team installing the first ever main frame computer system used by the Australian Department of Defense. 1n 1968, Tom moved his family to Boston, and moved the family again in 1969 to the United Kingdom, where Tom continued to be deeply involved in the development and installation of main frame computer systems. In 1972, Tom moved the family back to Sherwood Forest near Annapolis where he became a fixture within the Annapolis community and a parishioner at St. Mary’s Church.
  
Tom continued his endeavors in the computer industry, working at several companies over the ensuing 20-plus years, including ARINC in Annapolis, where he worked for 10 years.  Among Tom’s many accomplishments was leading the team which developed and deployed one of the first ever satellite-supported ship-to-shore remote emergency cardiac response systems and the sea-air link. His many contributions in these fields reverberate to this day.

In 1994, Tom pursued his passion for law, earning his JD from the University of Baltimore Law School in 1997, at the age of 61, and his Master of Laws (LLM) in tax in 2000.  During his legal career, Tom represented many individuals and businesses in state and federal courts in Maryland, and provided extensive pro bono and reduced fee services to indigent and underserved individuals, who otherwise would have been unable to afford representation.   

 Tom’s natural love of education, personal resilience, and tenacity were contagious.  Many of his children and grandchildren have followed in his footsteps earning college degrees, Juris Doctorate Degrees, and Masters Degrees.  Many have opened their own successful businesses and law practices, all guided by Tom’s pursuit of justice for everyone.  Tom was a member of the Anne Arundel County Bar Association and Maryland State Bar Association, and was admitted to practice law in the State of Maryland, the Federal District of Maryland, the District of Columbia District and Federal Courts, the United States Tax Court, and the United States Supreme Court, with a number of his cases reported in the appellate courts of Maryland and the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit. 

In addition to his parents, Tom was preceded in death by his sister, Mary “May”. He is survived by his loving and devoted wife, Catherine; his brother, Vincent; his children, Thomas, Jr., Patrick and his wife, Denise, Kevin and his wife, Connie, Kathleen and her husband, Rik, Brennan and his wife, Wendy and Colleen and her husband, George; his grandchildren, by whom he was lovingly known as “Poppy”, Thomas Ryan, Trystan, Shane, Dee Dee, Caitlyn, Eryn, Patrick, Jr., Aidan, Seamus, William, Troy, Travis, Tad, Jr., Sean, Skyelar, Liam, Emma, Christopher, Lauren, Christian, Connor, Ellianna, and Alex and his great children, Michael, Anthony, James, Daniel, Saoirse, Ceili, Yetta-Marie, Wyatt, Ronan, Declan, Kilian, Adaline, Kiylnn, Brayden, Chandler, Kolten, Skylar, Cohan, Crew, Thaddeus, III “Tripp”, Micky, III “Trey”, Rowan, Jasmine, Emiliano, and Nayeli. Tom was a mentor, inspiration, and role model to countless other young people with whom had a natural and deep connection and love, including his former son-in-law, Tad, Sr., and former daughter-in-law, Jessica. To them, whether in-law, niece, nephew, or friend of one of his own children, Tom will forever be remembered as “Dad,” “Mr. Mac,” “Big Tom,” or simply “Mr. McCarthy.”

Friends and Family are invited to celebrate Tom’s life at the Kalas Funeral Home & Crematory, 2973 Solomons Island Rd., Edgewater, MD on Friday September 6 from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 pm with rosary being said at 7:30 pm. Mass of Christian Burial will be offered at Holy Family Catholic Church, 826 W. Central Ave., Davidsonville, MD on Saturday, September 7 at 11 am. Interment will follow at Hillcrest Memorial Gardens in Annapolis.  


Blossom Christine Hansen Patterson passed away peacefully on August 30, 2024.  She was born in Shaker Heights, Ohio before relocating to Haverford, Pennsylvania.  She was married to John Patterson for 52 years.  Blossom is survived by her sons Robert and George as well as her grandchildren, Phillip, Brieanna, Jack, Nicholas, Nina, and Samantha.

She graduated from the Baldwin School in Bryn Mawr, before obtaining a degree in History from Smith College. She studied abroad in Paris and was fluent in French. Blossom met her husband while working at the Census Bureau. At the Census Bureau, she developed an interest in statistical research. Her love of statistics led her to obtain a master’s degree and Ph.D. from the University of Maryland while raising her sons.  Despite her busy schedule, she found time to tutor math to troubled youth at the Noyes Center in Rockville, Maryland.

She worked for the National Cancer Institute’s Division of Cancer Prevention as a researcher for nearly 30 years.  Her passion was studying food and nutrition to reduce cancer rates.  Blossom co-authored the book Investigating Biological Systems Using Modeling as well as several articles published in medical journals.  She consulted with Giant Food and Campbell’s Soup to improve the quality of the American diet.  As one of the only liberal arts majors in a division of statisticians, she was often the designated presenter of research at symposiums and even handled an interview on CNN.

Despite her life’s work Blossom was diagnosed with breast cancer after a tumor was discovered in her spine.  She was tough and defeated stage four breast cancer.  After her husband passed, Blossom relocated from Potomac, Maryland to Brightview in Edgewater. At Brightview, she quietly dominated trivia and developed a new set of close friends.  

The family will be holding a memorial service for Blossom at Brightview Senior Living at 8 Lee Airpark Dr., Edgewater Maryland on Wednesday, September 11th from 6 pm to 8 pm.  Light fare and wine will be available. Following the memorial service, the family will be hosting a reception at Robiolina Amore located at 9 Lee Airpark Drive, Suite B100, Edgewater.  The restaurant is located within walking distance of Brightview.  Extra parking is available in the Lee Airpark shopping center. 

She will be laid to rest next to her husband at Christ Episcopal Church in Rockville, Maryland.

Cindy Darlene Troutman, President and Owner of CGH Technologies, Inc., passed away peacefully at her home in Upper Marlboro, MD on August 27, 2024. Cindy was born on April 25, 1953, in Trenton, NJ, to the late Robert and Doris Troutman. As part of a military family, Cindy lived in several states, however, the family established roots in Chaneysville, PA.

Cindy attended Louisiana State University (LSU) where she earned her Bachelor of Science degree in 1975. Immediately following she served as Operations Manager at Southeastern University Computer Center in Hammed, Louisiana until 1986, when she relocated to the Washington DC area. While in the DC Metro area, she served as a Systems Engineer, Project Manager, and Manager of Technical/ Business Development before establishing her own company. 

In 1989 Cindy founded CGH Technologies, Inc. a woman-owned small business, serving Federal and International government agencies, and commercial clients for over 35 years. Cindy was highly regarded within the aviation community, working with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), where she was dedicated to helping design, implement, and maintain systems in addition to improving processes and communication, that would ensure safe and secure air travel.  

CGH Technologies, Inc. was ranked by the Washington Business Journal as one of the 50 fastest-growing privately held, woman-owned information engineering and management support businesses, in the Washington, D.C.  region many times over. In addition, CGH would win numerous awards for its renowned accomplishments, to name a few -- the ComputerWorld ‘Safety and Security´ Honor AwardsProgram -- a solution that used information technology to promote and advance public welfare, contribute to the greater good of society and change the world for the better; the Excellence in Government Award for Excellence in Enterprise Efficiencies; the AFEI, top industry Excellence in Enterprise Information Award; the American Biographical Institute (ABI-USA) “Outstanding Female Executive Award for Aviation Technical Solutions and an office corridor (that was referred to as “the Hall of Fame”) that displayed over 130 industry and community awards for excellence in solutions development, service delivery, and management.

Cindy was a dedicated member of numerous professional organizations, including the American Association of Airport Executives (AAAE), the Armed Forces Communications and Electronics Association (AFCEA), the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA), the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), the Air Traffic Controllers Association (ATCA), the Civil Air Navigation Services Organization (CANSO), the DC Chamber of Commerce (DCCC), Elevation Church, the National Association for Female Executives (NAFE), the National Association of Women Business Owners (NAWBO), the National Women’s Business Center (NWBC), the U.S. Chamber of Commerce (USCC), the U.S. Women’s Chamber of Commerce (USWCC), and Women in Technology (WIT).

Cindy and CGH supported various charitable causes over the last two decades, the company’s Community Outreach Program included, but was not limited to, the Ronald McDonald House of Charities, MS 5K Run, Dress for Success, Children’s National Medical Center, Friends of the National Zoo, Columbia Lighthouse for the Blind, House of Ruth, and Food for Friends. Many of the CGH staff volunteered at the charitable events. 
Cindy’s love and passion for animals and farming was like no other. She has loved, raised, and cared for over 100 alpacas, multiple horses, dogs, cats, chickens, and any wildlife that crossed her path.

All are invited to celebrate Cindy’s life on Saturday, September 7, 2024, for a gathering at 10 am followed by a memorial service at 11 am at the Kalas Funeral Home & Crematory, 2973 Solomons Island Rd., Edgewater, MD. Instead of flowers, it is kindly requested that contributions be made to the <a href="https://secure.aspca.org/donate/donate?ms=wb_top_homepage-donate&initialms=wb_top_homepage-donate&pcode=WEBMEMBER&lpcode=WEBGUARD&_gl=1*vyh8sj*_gcl_au*MjA4NzgyMDI5OC4xNzI1Mjk1Njgx">ASPCA.org </a> or to <a href="https://www.lastchanceanimalrescue.org/donate/">lastchanceanimalrescue.org</a> Online condolences may be shared by using the memories tab on this page.

Sara White Taylor, 33, passed away on August 26, 2024 after a short battle with cancer. Sara never stopped fighting even when the odds were stacked against her. She spent her last days surrounded by her closest loved ones.
 
Sara lived a life of service to others. She worked with children most of her life, and was the primary caregiver to both of her parents when they too were dying of cancer. Sara constantly put others before herself, even in her final days.

She enjoyed the simple things in life. She loved ordering take-out and binging the latest shows with her boyfriend. She enjoyed caring for her late mother’s plants, and starting a collection of her own. Sara's loved ones will remember her by her sharp sense of humor, no nonsense attitude, and her passionate love of Ben & Jerry's Ice Cream. Sara was a bright light in any room she entered and she made sure to share that light with anyone else in the room. Her personality was contagious to everyone she met.
 
Sara is survived by her older sister, Whitney Taylor; her younger brother, Robert Taylor, III and her loving boyfriend, Joshua Diffenderfer.

Sara wished to have a joyful celebration of life. Details for that will be announced at a later date. Flowers or plant donations are appreciated. Monetary donations to contribute to the celebration of life will be accepted as well.
 
Condolences may be made by using the Memories link on this page.

Mary Elise Thornton Vallario “Leasy” passed away on August 24, 2024 with her husband and 6 children by her side.

She was the beloved wife for 65 years of Joseph F. Vallario, Jr.; mother of Angela Vallario (Howard Lenzer), Joseph F. Vallario, III (Lily), Anna Marcie Ferrante (Nick), Mary Elise Pesetsky (Ian), Lisa Romano (Antonio) and Christina Bellafiore (Ed); grandmother of Jacob, Ellie, Hannah and Daniel Pesetsky, Valarie and Brian Lenzer, Joseph, Annabella, Nicholas and Rosalia Ferrante, Anna, Joseph and Sophia Vallario, Lucia, Anthony, Christopher and Malina Bellafiore, Gianna, Antonio, Leonardo and Vincent Romano; sister of Martina Fowler (Mark) and the late Barbara, Cecelia and Kathy and aunt of Dr. Samuel Long. She is also survived by many other nieces, nephews and family members.

Born on July 25, 1939 in Washington, DC to the late Martin and Annabelle Thornton, Leasy was one of 5 daughters. She graduated from St. Cecelia’s High School and worked for 10 years with the Immigration and Naturalization Department before becoming a full-time Mother and Nana. Leasy enjoyed china painting, traveling with family and friends and taking care of the farm. The farm was always filled with love, laughter and lots of food around the big kitchen table. For more than 40 years she campaigned for her beloved husband, Joe. Family was important and she was extremely proud of her children and grandchildren who all regularly spent time with her on family beach vacations and at the river house where there were many celebrations. She enjoyed watching her daughters and granddaughters at horse shows. She loved attending her grandchildren’s dance and music recitals, gymnastics, plays, Irish dancing, lacrosse, baseball, hockey and soccer games. Each child and grandchild has a special “Nana” story because she made each one feel special in his or her own way. Recently she considered herself to be “treated like a queen” based on the daily care she received from her daughters, Marcie, Mary and Chrissy and gourmet dinners and visits from Angela, Joey and Lisa. She was extremely grateful for all the love and support she received from her nephew, Dr. Samuel Long, who she loved like a son. She had many blessings and she will be deeply missed by all. Leasy is now in heaven with her parents, sisters and other family and friends who have predeceased her where she can watch over us regardless of where we are. She was and will always be the rock of our family. Her loving and generous nature will carry on in each one of us who will strive to be more like “Nana” every day. Her kindness and funny personality touched the lives of everyone she met.

She will be deeply missed by all.

Friends are invited to celebrate Leasy's life at the Kalas Funeral Home & Crematory, 2973 Solomons Island Rd., Edgewater, MD on Friday, August 30 from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 pm. Mass of Christian Burial will be offered at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, 8908 Old Branch Ave., Clinton, MD on Saturday, August 31 at 10 am. Interment will follow at Resurrection Cemetery in Clinton, MD.

Condolences may be made by using the Memories link on this page.

Margaret Ann Colyn, of Alexandria, VA, passed away peacefully on Saturday, August 24, 2024. Reunited with her beloved husband of 60 years, Peter Colyn, and her siblings Fr. Martin, John, Denis, and Thérèse. Sadly missed by her son Peter, daughter Margot, siblings Mary, Pat, Kitty, Phil, and Anthony, her son-in-law Patrick, daughter-in-law Jorgina, and grandchildren Hannah (Aaron), Patrick (Shelby), Mary Beth (Colton), Nathan, and Sydney (Jaime), great-grandchildren Aurelia and Ezekiel, brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nephews, nieces, extended family, and friends.

Born in Dunmore, Ireland, to John and Kitty Collins, Margaret later settled in the Washington, DC area with Peter, where she remained for most of her life. Margaret was a beautiful and elegant Irish woman, and a caring and generous wife, mother, grandmother, and friend. She was known for her love of learning, music, art, nature, and travel, often sharing her passions and recent reads with her family and friends. She was never one to sit down and kept those around her busy if they were idle. A gifted seamstress, she loved to make quilts and made many for her family as well as various charities. She was very proud to work for the US Navy for over 30 years but was most proud of her family; she cherished her family most of all, especially her children and grandchildren. Though she settled in the United States, she and Peter made many trips to her home in Ireland. Thankfully, she visited her siblings in Ireland last August. Margaret generously gave her family and friends all of the support and love in her heart and undoubtedly continues to watch over them from above.

May her gentle soul rest in peace. She will be missed.

A Memorial Mass will be offered on Tuesday, September 24th at 10:30 AM at The Basilica of St. Mary, 310 S Royal St, Alexandria, VA 22314. Interment will take place at a later date at Arlington National Cemetery.

The funeral mass can be viewed online on Tuesday, September 24th at 10:30 am via https://vimeo.com/event/4584661/fc3ee2e230


Bruce Harry Freise, a caring father and successful businessman, passed away at his home in Annapolis, MD, on August 23, 2024, at the age of 89.

Bruce was born on July 6, 1935, to the late Harry and Hazel Freise (née Swingler) in Florissant, MO. He married Constance “Connie” Clark, the college roommate of his late sister Peggy McGinnis (née Freise), on July 26, 1959. After a few moves at the start of their careers and family, they settled in Racine, WI, where they raised their three children.

He attended the University of Missouri before enlisting in the U.S. Navy. Upon his return, he worked in his father’s five and dime store before joining Western Publishing Company (publisher of Little Golden Books) as a salesman. He excelled in sales and received many promotions, ultimately becoming Vice President of the International Division.

Drawn to water, Bruce was a swimmer and a lifeguard in his youth. While living in Racine, he taught himself (and later his children) how to sail. In the summertime, he could be found sailing every Wednesday evening on Lake Michigan as part of the Racine Yacht Club’s racing series. An active member of the Club for decades, he also served as its Commodore.

After retiring, he and Connie lived in several places including Hilton Head, SC; Williamsburg, VA; on a cruiser boat; and Naples, FL before moving to Annapolis. Wherever they lived, Bruce had a boat, a kayak or both and could be found on the water or swimming laps in a nearby pool. Some of his favorite memories are his annual trips through the Atlantic Intracoastal Water with a buddy or two and cruising the waterways and living aboard their boat Happy Hours with Connie. 

Bruce is survived by his loving wife of 65 years, Connie Freise and three children: Catherine Chester (Dave), Clark Freise (Amy), and Heather Tredup (Steve). He is also survived by four grandchildren of whom he was immensely proud: Zachary and Nathaniel Chester and Meghan and Emily Freise, and many nieces and nephews.

Per Bruce’s request, no funeral services will be held. Memorial donations and donations in lieu of flowers be made to Hospice of the Chesapeake Foundation, 90 Ritchie Highway, Pasadena, MD 21122 (please note Bruce’s name on the memo line) or online at: <a href="https://www.hospicechesapeake.org/giving/donate-now/">Hospice of the Chesapeake</a>.

Online condolences may be offered using the Memories link on this page.

Pamela Anne Mann was born Pamela Anne Mueller on July 11, 1944. The child of Austin George and Nancy Eyre (Weber) Mueller in Columbia, Missouri. After several family moves, she spent the bulk of her childhood in Columbus, Indiana alongside her older brother, John (Miller) and younger sister, (and lifetime best friend) Sydie (Bloomenstock). While still in high school, Pam fell in love with her husband of sixty years, Jack Lee Mann. As John reports, Pam was often guilty of giving away “under the counter” milkshakes from their father’s bowling alley to her high school sweetheart! In her second year of college at Indiana State, on her birthday in 1964, Pam and Jack were married. In October 26, 1967 their first child, Christopher Andrew blessed their home. In November of 1970, Brian Lee was born. And then on March 6, 1976 Elizabeth Anne (Betsy) Mann was added to the family. Having moved to Potomac, MD for Jack’s position with Arthur Anderson, Pam would become a permanent resident of the state of Maryland living in Potomac, Annapolis, and Edgewater. Her siblings and their families would eventually join Jack and Pam in Maryland, and with regular visits from the Webers and Browns from Indiana, created a storehouse of family memories of shared vacations and holidays of every sort. Pam was a dedicated wife, mother, and grandmother, a beloved sister and aunt, she was committed to her family near and far, and an amazing hostess! For decades Pam’s home served as the gathering place of her extended family and she the glue that held the clan close. We will all grieve her loss deeply.

Friends are invited to celebrate Pamela's life at the Kalas Funeral Home & Crematory, 2973 Solomons Island Rd., Edgewater, MD, on Sunday, August 25, from 9 a.m. until her funeral service begins at 10 a.m. Interment will take place at St. John's Cemetery in Frederick, MD, on Monday, August 26, at 12 noon.  In lieu of flowers, donations toward <a href="https://www.targetcommunity.org/donate/">The Mann Family Scholarship Fund</a> would be most welcome. Please specify in the comments that the donation is for "The Mann Family Scholarship Fund.", or if you wish donations may also be made to <a href="https://support.specialolympics.org/a/maryland?ms=IDMP_DB&utm_source=donatebtn&utm_medium=web&utm_campaign=IDMP">Special Olympics Maryland</a> in Pam's memory.


If flowers are preferred, the family is using <a href="https://flowersbydonna.org/?srsltid=AfmBOoqVqbyHGnRR6o_LguJA-j2EU-voBM2dH8nlFSWKdo0x8OPPDwKS">Flowers by Donna</a> (410)263-1112
Condolences may be made by clicking the Memories link on this page.

A life celebration will be held at a later date, please check back for details. 

William “Bill” Lee Tanner of Fort Washington, MD passed away on August 21st, 2024. He was 84 years old.

Bill was born on July 13th, 1940 in Washington, D.C. to the late James Robert and Naomi Brock Tanner. He attended Anacostia and Suitland high schools.
 
Three years after graduating, he joined the Army (Active duty 1961-'64; Reserves '64-'67). While stationed in Germany, he recognized the opportunity to travel around Europe, which he did frequently.  He loved discovering and learning the history of new places! He excelled in his Quartermaster Unit. With those skills, after discharge, he worked for the Olivetti-Underwood Company servicing office machines and typewriters. In 1967, he began his career with Stan Ridgeway Real Estate, where he progressed from Realtor to Broker to Appraiser in Maryland and Washington D.C., over the course of 40 years. 

Bill was a member of the Lion’s Club in the 1980s. His primary interests included going to museums, gardens, cemeteries and forts....always with camera in hand! He and his family saw everything there was to see in the metro D.C. area, and he knew the city like the back of his hand.  

Along with his parents and stepfather, Edward Sabatini, he is predeceased by two brothers, James Robert Tanner, Jr., and George Ronald Tanner. 

Bill is survived by Diana, his beloved wife of 57 years; his daughter, Christina L. Hensley of Quicksburg, VA;  his son, William L. Tanner of Fort Washington, MD, and his two outstanding grandsons, Zachary T. Hensley of Dallas, TX, and Simon P. Hensley of Rockingham, VA.

A visitation will be held on Monday, September 23, 2024 from 11:30 a.m. until the start of the funeral service at 12:30 p.m. at the KALAS FUNERAL HOME & CREMATORY, 6160 Oxon Hill Rd., Oxon Hill, MD 20745.  Interment with military honors will be held at 2:30 p.m. at Maryland Veteran's Cemetery, 11301 Crain Highway, Cheltenham, MD 20623. 

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to: <a href="https://vetsct.org/">VETERANS EQUINE THERAPEUTIC SERVICES</a>    and/or    <a href="https://www.braveheartriding.org/">Brave HEART Program</a>




Jeffrey, affectionately known as “Jeff,” was born on July 3, 1962, in Washington, DC and departed this life on August 21, 2024. He was born to the late Paul Vanison and Margaret Taper-Hickman and later adopted by his Father, the late George Henry Hickman.

Jeffrey, graduated from Potomac High School in Oxon Hill, MD and had his first-born son Anthony Turner with his high school sweetheart Zina Turner. After graduation he enlisted in the United States Navy at 18 years of age. He went through Naval Academy training stationed on the Great Lakes in Illinois where he studied several different trades and developed skills that led him into his current career as a Master Plumber. Jeffrey was a member of Plumbers Union Local 5 of Washington, DC since March 21 st , 2014. He was known and recognized for his impeccable skills in plumbing, pipe fitting, and HVAC work. Jeffrey took great delight in building projects. He was involved in several building developments through our DC metropolitan area to include the Story Blocks in Arlington, Virginia, the Smithsonian Greenhouse in Suitland, MD, the Dunbar Highschool Project, the Yondr Data Center, the MGM Casino, and several schools Washington DC. In his later years, he became a teacher of his trade and taught at several schools through out the years.

During his time in the United States Navy he met Evelyn Gonzalez, the mother of his first-born daughter Heidi Letise Hickman. He later moved to Milwaukee, WI, and took up a trade in the Construction Industry where he and Evelyn raised his daughter Heidi and Evelyn’s son “Little Ricky”. Nine years later, Jeffrey conceived his second daughter Jalisa Hickman. Then shortly after, met Melissa Mercado-Hickman whom he later married. The two conceived Jeffrey George Hickman and raised Deveniece Cuevas and Edwin Mercado as his own.

Jeffrey, had a competitive spirit. He was an avid sportsman who enjoyed playing football and boxing in his adolescent years. He was a huge fan of the Pittsburgh Steelers. There wasn’t a game he didn’t watch. He even traveled to the arena just see them play in person.

Jeffrey, was a well-dressed man with a set of pipes on him; he was extremely passionate about singing. He spent his days singing navy songs to his children where each memorized them word for word. He also enjoyed eating seafood, traveling, cooking, dancing, and spending time with his family.

Jeffrey, dedicated his life to his family. He leaves behind cherished memories with his children Anthony Turner, Heidi L. Hickman, Jalisa Hickman, Jeffrey G. Hickman, Deveniece Cuevas and Edwin Mercado; his 10 grandchildren; his mother Margaret Hickman; his brother Terry Hickman and three sisters Vicky Morgan, Kathy Coleman, and Heidi Rivas; and a host of aunts, uncles, consins, nieces, nephews, family and friends.

A Life Celebration will be held on Saturday, September 7, 2024 from 10 a.m. until the start of his funeral service at 11 a.m. at St. Barnabas Episcopal Church, 5203 St. Barnabas Rd., Temple Hills, MD 20748. Interment will follow in the church cemetery. 

Virginia Jean “Ginny” Buckley, 89, passed away at 2 pm EST on Wednesday, August 21, 2024.  Born on February 13, 1935 in Dayton, Ohio to the late Ruby Powell  and Paul Butler Medford, Ginny grew up in Cowan, Tennessee and attended Franklin High School. She worked for Joseph Bean's law office prior to moving to California. She later moved to Maryland, where she worked for the Department of Defense for 35 years. She also volunteered for Good Shepherd Elementary in Decherd, Tennessee from 1994 to 1998. Ginny was a member of the Daughters of the American Revolution and was a world traveler, a bird watcher and a polka dancer.

She was preceded in death by her husband, William Donald Buckley from Winchester, Tennessee whom she married on February 27, 1953; her older sister, Lois Medford and a younger twin sister, Margaret Jane Medford Rorrick.

Ginny is survived by her three children, Donna Jean (Duncan) Juergenson, William Paul and John Phillip (Nancy Bonnar) Buckley; her grandchildren, Nicholas Aaron and Stephen Richard Juergenson, Andrew Joshua, Jaccob Daniel, Katarinia, William Paul, Jr., Samantha Taylor and William Hunter Buckley and her great grandchildren, Arkin Mallory Juergenson, Parker, Annie Rose and Jaxxson Buckley.

Family and friends are invited to a Celebration of Life in Tullahoma, Tennessee at a later date. In lieu of flowers please make a donation to Harris Chapel in Tullahoma, Tennessee, the Alzheimer's Association or Saint Jude Children's Hospital. Thank you for all your love and support at this time.     

Please leave a condolence for the family by signing the guestbook at the Memories tab located on the left side of this page.

Juliette Gonda Kragh, cherished wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, passed away peacefully at the age of 87 on Tuesday, August 20th in Edgewater, MD. Her love and presence left an indelible mark on all who knew her.

Born on June 16, 1937 in Paris, France, she spent her early childhood in Geneva, Switzerland. Juliette immigrated to the United States with her family at the age of 13 and lived in New York City before moving to Washington DC. Juliette met her loving husband, Clarence, in 1957 after a friend set them up on a blind date. Juliette and Clarance married on February 21, 1959 and celebrated their 65th wedding anniversary this past February.

Juliette graduated from Eastern High School (Washington DC) in 1954 and the District of Columbia Teachers College in 1959. She then earned a Masters degree in History from the University of Maryland in 1973. Juliette dedicated her entire professional life to education, where she taught History, English, and French to middle and high school students. She retired as a high school history teacher after 30 years and her passion for knowledge remained a cornerstone of who she was to her community – especially when it came to History and Current Events.

Juliette embraced all cultures and traveled around the world, sharing her experiences through her pictures and stories. One of her favorite destinations was Switzerland, where she returned frequently to spend time with lifelong friends. Closer to home, Juliette loved trips to Myrtle Beach where she could spend the week with family, reading, laughing and floating in the ocean.

Juliette was an avid supporter of the arts – particularly music, drawing, dance, and cooking. In her retirement, she took up piano lessons and would spend time painting and drawing at the local Senior Center. Many of her beautiful drawings and paintings can be found in the houses of loved ones. Juliette loved attending local dances with her husband and friends. She also loved cooking for her family and hosting family gatherings.

She is survived by her husband of 65 years, Clarence; her daughters Kathryn, Susan (Bill); her grandchildren Kelly (Chris), Greg, Matthew (Ali), Andrew (Lizzie), Nathan (Autumn), her great-grandson Finn, and her brother Joe (Chris).

A celebration of life will be held on Monday, September 2nd, 2024, at Noon at the Elk’s Club, Edgewater, MD, where friends and family will gather to celebrate her remarkable life and legacy. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Hospice of the Chesapeake or St. Jude’s Hospital.

The family extends their heartfelt thanks to all who have offered support and condolences during this time. Juliette’s memory will live on in the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing her

Andrew “Andy” Alan Vickers, 81, a 51-year resident of Davidsonville, MD passed away on August 19, 2024 after a brief illness. He was born on April 8, 1943, in Charleston, WV to the late Andrew and Eunice Vickers. Andy graduated from WV Institute of Technology before moving to Washington DC to start his career. He was retired after working many years as a Chief Estimator for a large heavy highway general contractor.

Andy was a member of the Air Force Reserves. He enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren and loved his role as a long-time youth football coach, in which he received a Lifetime Achievement Award for his commitment to youth sports from the Annapolis Touchdown Club. He enjoyed riding his Harley and was a member of the Annapolis Harley (Hog) Chapter.

In addition to his parents, Andy was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 46 years, Elizabeth “Betty” Vickers and his brother David Vickers. He is survived by his children, Glenn Vickers (Debra) of Asheville, NC and Cheryl Jones (Duane) of Annapolis, MD; his grandchildren, Austin and Allison Vickers, and Andrew and Brooke Jones (Alex); and two great-grandchildren, Luca Ginzo and Leilah Elizabeth Jones.

Services for Andy will be private.

Please leave a condolence for the family by signing the guestbook at the Memories tab located on the left side of this page.

Susan Georgina Smith passed away on the morning of August 18, 2024, after a long and courageous battle with Parkinson’s disease and dementia. Surrounded by her loving family, she left this world with grace and dignity.
 
Born in England in 1947, Susan, along with her family, immigrated to the United States in 1980, bringing their boat-building business with them. Over the course of her 54-year marriage to Anthony Smith, Susan played a pivotal role in establishing one of the world’s most enduring catamaran manufacturing companies. Designing, building and selling thousands of boats over many decades, her partnership with Tony was not only a professional triumph but also a testament to their deep and enduring love.
 
Susan was deeply involved in her community and cherished the opportunity to work alongside her children, Neil Smith and Laura Hershfeld, for over 15 years. She is also survived by her four grandchildren, Olivia, Piper, Catherine, and Ethan, as well as her daughter-in-law Holly Smith and son-in-law Will Hershfeld.
 
Susan’s life was marked by strength, resilience, and unwavering love. She will be remembered fondly and deeply missed by all who knew her.

Please take a moment to leave a condolence or memory for the family using the Memories tab on this page.

Relatives and friends are invited to Virgilio's Life Celebration on Sunday, August 25, 2024 from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. at the Kalas Funeral Home & Crematory, 6160 Oxon Hill Road, Oxon Hill, MD 20745. Mass of Christian Burial will be offered on Monday, August 26, 2024 at 10 a.m. at St. Columba Catholic Church, 7800 Livingston Road, Oxon Hill, MD 20745. Interment will be held privately at a later date. 

Paul James Geisler, lovingly known as “Grandpaul” by his grandchildren, passed away gently in his sleep on Saturday, August 17, 2024 at the age of 79. On May 23, 1945, Paul was born in Washington, D.C. as the third of four sons to the late Anthony Aloysius Geisler and Anna Victoria Geisler. He was preceded in death by his older brothers Anthony “Tony” Geisler and Robert “Bob” Geisler and by his beloved son-in-law, Paul Kemp.

Paul is survived by his cherished wife of 57 years, Marjorie Ann Geisler, tenderly referred to as Margie. He was a wonderful father to his daughter, Theresa Kemp, son, Paul Geisler, and daughter-in-law, Dawn Geisler, and was adored by his grandchildren, Savannah Geisler, Zachary Kemp, Shane (and Elise) Geisler and Victoria Kemp. Sadly, he also leaves behind his youngest brother, Raymond “Ray” Geisler and will be dearly missed by his in-laws, James (and Mary Margaret) Shannon, Karen (and Bob) Merry, Robert (and Nancy) Shannon, Mary Beth Neeley, Cliff Shannon, and Cathy Geisler.

Raised in Bethesda, Maryland, Paul attended Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic School and graduated from St. John’s College in Washington, D.C. He earned a bachelor’s degree in economics from the University of Maryland in 1967 and embarked on a successful 48-year career in sales. Upon retirement in 2015, Paul and Margie moved to Ocean City, Maryland. There they continued to worship our Lord Jesus at St. Luke’s Catholic Church and generously welcomed countless visits from family and friends.

Put simply, Paul was a giver. He always, and we mean ALWAYS, put others ahead of himself. No inconvenience, time, money, schedule, or distance stood between Paul and his willingness to be helpful and kind. He was a treasured son, husband, father, grandfather, in-law, and friend. Even in the most difficult conditions, he may sweat but still smile. He was most happy while making others happy; a rare and precious jewel of humanity in good times and bad.

Paul was as fun as he was kind. He enjoyed watching his Redskins, Nationals, and Wizards play and loved playing poker with his buddies; especially Billy Boyle and the guys. Paul brought laughter and joy to every room he entered. Having Paul around was the secret ingredient for a good time. From family reunions in Iowa to family adventures in Florida; everything was better with Paul there. Also an avid walker, Paul would often hike from Ocean City to Delaware and back. He also enjoyed swimming and spending time in the sand with his family.

Friends and family are invited to celebrate Paul’s life on Friday, August 23, 2024 from 9:30 am until a Memorial Mass begins at 10:30 am at Our Lady of Sorrows Catholic Church, 101 Owensville Road, West River, MD. A reception will immediately follow at his daughter’s home at 871 Fiorenza Drive in Lothian, Maryland. In lieu of flowers, his family would be honored by any donation made in Paul’s memory to Covenant House of New York (online <a href="https://ny.covenanthouse.org/donation-form/">here</a>) or One7 Ministries (online <a href="https://one7.org/donate#donate">here</a>).

In the 13th chapter of John’s gospel Jesus commands his followers to “Love each other. Just as I have loved you, you should love each other. Your love for one another will prove to the world that you are my disciples.” Paul’s life reflected his desire to follow that command and offers a legacy sure to ripple through generations of those who knew and loved him.

Please take a moment to leave a condolence or message for the family using the Memories tab on this page.

Obituaries

Nada Syrnyk

Darryl Thomas

John Lauer, Jr.

Maxine Poles

Richard Wilson

Barbara Carr

William "Billy" Tucker, II

Thomas McCarthy, Sr.

Blossom Patterson

Cindy Troutman

Sara Taylor

Mary "Leasy" Vallario

Margaret Colyn

Bruce Freise

Pamela Mann

Karl Statter

William Tanner

Jeffrey Hickman

Virginia Buckley

Juliette Kragh

Andrew Vickers

Susan Smith

Virgilio Rollamas

Paul Geisler