Kalas Funeral Home & Crematory

John Sampar (40) March 2, 1982 – February 12, 2023. John passed away unexpectedly the morning of February 12, 2023.

John was born in Fairfax, VA and spent most of his childhood between Temple Hills, MD and Fairfax, VA. He grew up skiing at Canaan Valley and Timberline, WV, and was a proficient skier at age 2. John attended Queen Anne High School, Upper Marlboro MD, where with faculty support he assembled a baseball team. His involvement with Queen Anne continued as an alumnus, where he would return annually for the Thanksgiving morning soccer game. He was a proud Eagle Scout, which he earned after his service project involving educating and encouraging people to recycle in the early days of the sustainability movement. He spent summers working at Six Flags in the waterpark, eventually as a Pool Technician.

In 2005, John graduated from Arizona State University, where he majored in business administration and was a member of the Tau Kappa Epsilon College fraternity. Over breaks in Arizona, with friends he would drive to parks in Mexico to enjoy off road driving. Although he settled across the country, his friendships from ASU were something he cherished. In recent years, inspired by his time in aquatics, John passed several milestones in his work in a plumbing apprenticeship. In 2018 he proudly joined the Local # 5 Union. In the coming year, he looked forward to completing his plumbing license. 

John loved spending time with friends, working with his hands, and caring for numerous adopted furry creatures. Whenever he encountered a venomous serpent, he emerged victorious. He loved golfing, and had made a hole in one on two different occasions. He supported the Capitals, Nationals, and Commanders, and cheered for them wholeheartedly. 

John is survived by his mother Barbara Sampar (Fairfax, VA), his Father Bill Sampar (Grand Junction, CO), his sister Toni Trenda (Palmdale, CA), his nephew Michael Buell (Brooklyn, NY), and aunts June Baldwin (Grover, Waldorf, MD), and Nancy Pyles (Richard, Winston-Salem, NC). John was preceded in death by his brother William Trenda.

Relatives and friends are invited to John's viewing from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM, with a funeral service to begin promptly at 11:00 AM on Saturday, March 11th at Columbia Baptist Church: 103 W Columbia St Falls Church, VA 22046. Burial will be on Monday, March 13th at 11:00 AM at St Barnabas Cemetery Temple Hills MD. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in John’s memory as a baptized Christian to the Columbia Baptist Church building fund https://www.columbiabaptist.org/








Sandra “Sandy” Lea King, 80, a 40-year resident of Davidsonville and previously of Green Meadows, MD passed away on February 11, 2023 at the Baltimore Washington Medical Center. Despite being broken-hearted after the death of her husband in 2020, Sandy spent the past 3 years waging a valiant battle against cancer.  
Born on February 25, 1942 at Sibley Hospital in Washington, DC to the late Alec and Mim Tate, Sandy graduated from Northwestern High School in Hyattsville, MD. She worked briefly in furniture sales and cleaning houses but her true life’s vocation was raising her family. Her greatest joy came from her six sons and their families. She also enjoyed playing tennis and pickleball, and was a member of the Prince George’s County Pickleball Club.
Sandy was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 39 years, Thomas King, and her brother-in-law, Bill Conrad. She is survived by her six sons, Edwin (Stacy) Dowling of Bradenton, FL, Joseph Dowling of Naples, FL, James (Christine) Dowling and Johnny Dowling, both of Davidsonville, MD, Thomas (Lisa) King II of West River, MD, and Andrew King of Pasadena, MD. She is also survived by her sister, Phyllis Conrad of Annapolis, MD, seven grandchildren, Kaitlin (Jesse) Walsh, Hanna, Daniele, Haylee and Hunter Dowling, and Alex and Delaney King, as well as 4 great-grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews.
Friends are invited to celebrate Sandy’s life with her family on Saturday, February 25, 2023 at 11 a.m. with a funeral service beginning at 11:30 a.m. at Riva Trace Baptist Church, 475 West Central Ave., Davidsonville, MD 21035. 

If you have pictures of her that you'd like to share, please feel free to add them to this <a href="https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1aPUVTOxN1I0seVU7Nu540KSiJt84v-2M?usp=sharing
">Google Drive Folder</a>. The family would love to have them.

Online condolences may be made by using the Memories tab on this page.

Willard Roy Davis, a beloved husband, father, brother, grandfather, and friend passed away on Saturday, February 11th at the age of 82. He was a 58-year resident of Edgewater, MD, a 17-year resident of Longs, SC, and recently moved back to MD in 2022 to be with his family. 

Willard was born on January 27th, 1941 in Ashland, Kentucky. In 1946, he moved to Maryland with his mother, Helen Davis, his father, William Davis, and his older brother, William “Billy” Davis Jr. By 1958, his parents had opened Bill’s Woodland Restaurant in Edgewater and this is where his roots began to take hold. He spent several years working for his parents, often leaving there to attend Baltimore Colts games with his father and younger brother, Gary Davis, sparking a life-long love of the Baltimore Colts and Ravens. Although, one could argue the restaurant’s most important role was as the meeting place of Willard and the love of his life, Carol. The two met in 1958 and were married in 1963. Soon after, Willard became a father with the birth of his oldest daughter, Polly (Davis) Aquilino. A few years later, his youngest daughter, Shelley (Davis) Sellars was born. Willard was officially a family man. 

Over the years, Willard became a prominent member of the Edgewater community and beyond. Whether it was donating his time to volunteer with the Mayo Kiwanis Club, sponsoring a Naval Academy Midshipmen for four years, or running his various business ventures within the area, one thing remained true - Willard was set on making a positive impact in his community. This impact lasted for decades, particularly when he opened Willard’s Barber Shop in 1961. The door to his shop was a gateway for a bevy of locals looking for a haircut, an easy-going conversation, and oftentimes, a meet-up spot for a round of golf with friends. Aside from being a husband, father, and local businessman, Willard’s real, life-long passion was golf. When he had a spare moment, golf was his go-to, whether it be on the course or on the television; it wasn’t a mere hobby, but a way of life. He spent countless hours laughing, swinging, and thriving on the course with loved-ones. Albeit, at the end of the day, Willard could be found sitting next to his wife, Carol, and spending time with his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

Willard was the son of the late William Howard Davis and Helen Kate (Gosney) Davis. He was also preceded in death by his brother, William Howard Davis Jr., January 28, 2017. He is survived by his loving wife of 59 years, Carol Ann Davis  of Woodbine, MD; his brother, Gary Thomas Davis of Denton, MD and sister-in-law, Joyce Elaine Davis  of Denton, MD; his daughters, Polly Ann Aquilino of Woodbine, MD and Shelley Marie Sellars of Edgewater, MD; his son-in-law, Timothy Michael Aquilino of Woodbine, MD; his grandchildren, Joshua Davis Kidwell and Destinee Leigh Masi of Canton, NC, Sierra Noell Sellars of Greensboro, NC, Timothy Michael Aquilino Jr. of Woodbine, MD, Haley Carol Good and Thomas Charles Enriquè Good of Taneytown, MD; and his great-grandchildren, Brailee Amaya Jenkins of Greensboro, NC and June Masi Kidwell of Canton, NC. 

Family and friends are invited to honor Willard on Thursday, February 16 from 10 am until his celebration of life begins at 11 am at the Kalas Funeral Home and Crematory, 2973 Solomons Island Rd., Edgewater, MD.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to First Tee Baltimore, a non-profit that uses golf to enable kids to build the strength of character that empowers them through a lifetime of new challenges. Donations can be made by clicking here: <a href="https://firstteebaltimore.org/donate/">First Tee Baltimore</A>

Online condolences may be made at: KalasFuneralHomes.com

Helen S. Vinluan, 77, a loving wife and mother as well as a Professional Engineer by degree who went on to get her Masters’ degree and practice as a Computer Analyst for Computer Science Corporation (working at NASA Goddard, in Greenbelt, MD before retiring like her husband of 51-years also a Professional Engineer), died February 11, 2023 at 3:07 p.m. in the Intensive Care Unit of the Virginia Hospital Center in Arlington, VA. Her death, from complications due to pneumonia, was confirmed by her family at her bedside. Mrs. Helen Vinluan was a longtime Oxon Hill resident. 

She was born Helen Sison Vinluan on June 22, 1945, to a civic-minded Filipino Catholic family in Urdaneta (City), Pangasinan (Province), and resided in Urdaneta (City) in the Philippines as eldest of seven (7) children to family-owned businessman Juan Ramos Sison and Alodia Sison. With the goal of gaining U.S. citizenship, she graduated from the University of the Philippines in Manila, Philippines, worked and passed her engineering Board Exam, fell in love and got married shortly after obtaining U.S. visa and travelling to Washington D.C., U.S.A. in June 1968 where one (1) week later she was joined by and then married her husband Rufino C. Vinluan, Jr. 

Rufino Vinluan III, also an Engineer, said in an interview: “I’m still trying to process… I can’t believe Mom passed. She was a very strong person in my life and yours too.” Buddy Vinluan, also an Engineer and Certified Construction Manager, described his mother “She always spoke frankly to the people she loved and never held grudges,” and “was only satisfied with the very best,” and echoed the sentiments of many who knew her well: “With my broken heart on the mend, she was always a healthy and happy person, especially with my Dad around. She is now at peace in heaven, I have no doubt! That will bring comfort in these trying times.” 

Mrs. Helen Vinluan enjoyed travelling around the world with her husband on his work-related assignments, including in Tel Aviv, Israel and Yanbu City, Saudi Arabia and travelled to the Philippines with her family from time to time in addition to several trips to Italy, Greece and other destinations in Europe. 

She was a devoted wife “Mama Helen” and “Ache Helen” and “Ante Helen” to her family and extended family, respectively always willing to lend a helping hand and listening ear when able. At St. John’s the Evangelist Catholic Church in Clinton, MD she sang as if she was in the Choir and had an open invitation to join but never did. Survivors include her children, Rufino J. Vinluan, III and Joyce Vinluan both of Fort Washington, MD., and Vladimir (Buddy) Vinluan of National Harbor, MD; grandchildren Gabriella, Nico, Rocco, Archer, Atlas; two brothers; two sisters to name a few. 
Thank you.

Relatives and friends are invited to Helen's Life Celebration on Thursday, February 23, 2023, from 2 to 7 p.m. at the KALAS FUNERAL HOME & CREMATORY, 6160 Oxon Hill Road, Oxon Hill, MD 20745 and on Friday, February 24 from 10 a.m. until the Mass of Christian Burial at 11 a.m. at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, 8908 Old Branch Avenue, Clinton, MD 20735. Interment will follow at Resurrection Cemetery, Clinton, MD. 

Rosemary D. Weller, 85, of Ft. Washington, MD died on February 11, 2023. 

Born on September 22, 1937 in Chicago, IL to the late Frank P. and Margaret Doheny.

Rosemary is survived by her son Michael Weller, daughter-in-law Sara Levin Weller, granddaughter Ilana Weller, two brothers, Frank P. Doheny, Jr. of Louisville, KY, and Edward J. Doheny of Washington, DC, and her two nephews, Brian C. Doheny and F. Patrick Doheny of Louisville, KY. 

Her husband of 54 years, Joseph F. Weller, predeceased her in 2020.

As a child, Ms. Weller moved from Chicago to Peoria, IL, and later to Louisville, KY
where she completed high school at Sacred Heart Academy. In 1959, she earned her undergraduate degree from St. Mary’s College, Notre Dame, IN. She then began her teaching career at La Porte High School, in Indiana, teaching Communication and coaching the State Championship debate team. Later, she earned a Master’s degree from The Catholic University, and a Ph.D. from the University of Maryland with a specialization in Special Education. Ms. Weller’s professional career spanned over 40 years at Gallaudet University where she taught Speech Communication, Interpersonal Communication, and Public Speaking. She was Chair of the Communication Department for many years.

In retirement, Ms. Weller was active in the Tantallon Citizens Association, the Tanta-Cove Garden Club, and has been the editor of the community newsletter for 19 years. She served as an usher at The Arena Stage in Washington, DC, for almost 20 years.

A funeral Mass to celebrate her life will be held at St. Mary’s Catholic Church of Piscataway, 13405 Piscataway Road, Clinton, MD on Saturday, February 18 at 11:00 AM with burial to follow at Resurrection Cemetery in Clinton, MD. Friends may pay their respects to the family at Kalas Funeral Home, 6160 Oxon Hill Road, Oxon Hill, MD 20745 on Friday, February 17 from 5:00-7:00 PM.

In lieu of flowers, a contribution may be made to The Arena Stage, 1101 6 th Street,
SW, Washington, DC 20024, or to a charity of the donor’s choice.

On February 11, 2023, the patriarch of our family, Armando Bunag Bassiwa, boarded his final cruise to join our heavenly Father.  We are deeply saddened he is no longer with us but tremendously grateful he is at peace. Our heartfelt thank you and gratitude go to all who have provided comfort and support to our family during this time.

Armando is survived by his devoted wife of 58 years, Concha (nee Alqueza), four daughters Lizamarie (Earl Echon) Grace (Art Caliguiran), Maribeth (Henry Green), and Regina (Mark Dixon). He will be fondly remembered by his five grandchildren, Catherine, Candice, Alyssa, Christopher, and Tiare; his great grandchildren, Shaun, Jaerel, Cayron, Rizzo, and Kobe; and one loving dog, Chewie. He is united in passing with his parents, Enrique and Carmona, siblings, Marvin, and Estella, and welcomed by his many shipmates, family, and friends who have gone before him.

Relatives and friends are invited to Armando’s Life Celebration on Wednesday, March 8, 2023, from 2 to 4 and 6-8 p.m. at the Kalas Funeral Home & Crematory, 6160 Oxon Hill Road, Oxon Hill, MD 20745. Mass of Christian Burial offered on Thursday, March 9, 2023 at 11 a.m. at St. Columba Catholic Church, 7800 Livingston Rd., Oxon Hill, MD, followed by interment with Military Honors at MD Veterans Cemetery – Cheltenham, 11301 Crain Highway, Cheltenham, MD 20623 at 1 p.m.


Chester “Sonny” Charles Freeman, 80, passed away Friday, February 10, 2023 at Assisted Living Well Compassionate Care in Millersville, Maryland.

Chester Freeman was born in Wise, Virginia, a graduate of JJ Kelly High School and a veteran of the United States Air Force. Chester moved to Washington, DC, in 1964 and married is wife, Alice, in 1965. He became a successful auto mechanic and also worked as a technician for Macke Corporation for several years. Chester’s most recent career, prior to retirement, was a Mechanical Forman for at the U.S. Postal Service Bulk Mail Center in Lanham, Maryland for 13 years. Chester had several hobbies - A love for all types of photography, he collected antique cars, specifically British MG’s, antique cameras, as well as many books, artwork and models of the Norfolk & Western steam trains. Chester and his wife, Alice, were active members of The Chesapeake Chapter of the New England MG T Register for many years, enjoying several car shows a year.

He was preceded in death by his wife of 53 years, Alice Freeman; his parents, Charles Chester Freeman and Mary Anne (Popp) Freeman and his brother, John Mack Freeman. Surviving is Chester’s daughter, Mary Ann Freeman, of Davidsonville, MD.

Visitation with family, prior to a Mass of Resurrection, will be held from 11:30 A.M. till time of services at 12:30 P.M. on Tuesday, February 21, 2023 at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church 1009 Virginia Ave NW, Norton, VA 24273 with Father Eric Baffour Asamoah officiating. Burial will follow at Powell Valley Memorial Gardens in Big Stone Gap, VA. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Anthony’s Catholic Church, 1009 Virginia Ave., N.W., Norton, Virginia, 24273, or to Alzheimer’s Family Support Services, P.O. Box 888, Big Stone Gap, VA 24219. Please take a moment to leave a condolence for the family by visiting the link on the side of this page.

A. JoAnn “Jo” Terry Neuenberger Atkins, 84, a resident of Edgewater, MD passed away peacefully on Friday, February 10, 2023, in Arnold, Maryland.

Jo was born on January 25, 1939, in Washington, DC, to the late Donald E. and Rose Marie Carruth. Jo worked as the Assistant to the Director of the Smithsonian Institute. Jo was a member of Riva Trace Baptist Church and was an avid sports fan. She loved all sports especially the Maryland Terrapins, Washington Nationals, the Kansas City Chiefs, and Golden State Warriors.

Jo is survived by her beloved children, C. Ronald and Donald G. Neuenberger, both of Edgewater, MD and daughter Sharon L. Bautista and her husband George, of La Plata, MD, her siblings Charles Carruth and his wife Mary of Valley Lee, MD, Donna Carruth and her husband Michael Bennis of Florida, Betty Smith and her husband Jesse of Florida and Linda Schryer and her husband Donald of Delaware. She is also survived by her two grandsons, Stefan P. Bautista of Baltimore, MD and Corey J. Bautista and his wife Hannah of Austell, GA.  Jo also dearly loved all of her precious nieces and nephews.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate JoAnn's life on Friday, February 17, 2023, from 11 am until 12 pm at the Kalas Funeral Home & Crematory, 2973 Solomons Island Rd., Edgewater, MD 21037 where a funeral service will begin at 12 pm. A graveside service will follow at 1:30 pm at Cedar Hill Cemetery, Suitland, MD.


Please take a moment and leave a condolence for her family by using the memories tab on this page.

Dr. Louis V. Kaufman died suddenly on February 10, 2023 in Fort Washington, Maryland. Raised in Moundsville, West Virginia, he received his medical degree from West Virginia University and completed his medical training at Georgetown University Hospital in internal medicine and pulmonary disease. He also held a master’s degree in information systems technology from George Washington University. Lou practiced as an internist and pulmonologist for 40 years in Prince Georges County, Maryland. A Certified Medical Director, he was serving as the medical director of Sagepoint Senior Living in La Plata, Maryland at the time of his death. 

Lou is survived by his wife of 55 years Pat (nee Pellegrini), his daughters Kat (Clint) Calzini of Lexington, Kentucky and Beth (Mike) Royle of Virginia Beach, Virginia, and his 5 grandchildren, Ben Calzini, Emily Royle, Jill Calzini, Katie Royle, and Dan Calzini. He was a gentleman, a caring doctor, a generous friend, an accomplished amateur photographer, and a devoted family man and we will miss him forever.

Relatives and friends are invited to Lou’s Life Celebration on Monday, February 20, 2023 at KALAS FUNERAL HOME & CREMATORY, 6160 Oxon Hill Road, Oxon Hill, Maryland 20745 from 3 to 6 p.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Tuesday, February 21, 2023 at 10:30 a.m. at Good Shepherd Catholic Church, 8710 Mount Vernon Highway, Alexandria, Virginia, 22309. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Tunnel to Towers Foundation by visiting t2t.org.










Patricia “Patty” Smith, 59, a 10-year resident of Millersville, MD and previously of Chincoteague, VA passed away on February 9, 2023 at her home. Patty was born on March 29, 1963 to the late Richard and Juanita Starner in Annapolis, MD. Patty was known for enjoying living her life to the fullest. She is preceded in death by her parents and one sister, Rosie Starner. Patty is survived by her two children, Cole Smith of Salisbury, MD, Heather Meade of Deale, MD, two grandsons and one granddaughter. Patty is also survived by her four siblings, Darryl Starner of Cambridge, MD, Leroy Starner or Edgewater, MD, Bonnie Starner of Millersville, MD, and Carol Peek of Madison, MD.

All services will be private.

Online condolences may be made by clicking the Memories tab on this page.


On February 8, 2023, Deborah Adelaide Crowell Cross passed away.  She is survived by her husband, Robert A. Cross, son William (Stephanie) Cross, grandchildren Tyler Cross and Morgan Jackson, and great-grandson Liam Jackson.  Graveside inurnment will be held on Monday, March 6 at 11:15 AM at Maryland Veterans Cemetery, 11301 Crain Highway, Cheltenham, MD 20623.  Online condolences may be left for the family at www.KalasFuneralHomes.com.






Emmett Jerome Vaeth, Sr. “Jerry”, a 33-year resident of Annapolis and previously of Davidsonville, MD, passed away on February 7, 2023.  He was 94 years old.  Born on December 3, 1928 in Baltimore, MD to the late Edward and Helen Vaeth, Jerry was the fourth of six children.  He graduated from Catonsville High School and attended Baltimore Junior College before joining the U.S. Army in 1951.  Stationed in Korea, Jerry was promoted to the rank Staff Sergeant and received the Occupational Medal (Japan), Korean Service Medal with 1 Bronze Star, Combat Infantry Badge and United Nations Service Medal.  Jerry enjoyed a career in industrial sales.  He worked primarily for the Wolverine Corporation selling copper tubing to companies such as GE and Amana for use in air conditioners.

Jerry was a member of Holy Family Catholic Church in Davidsonville, the Heritage Harbour Community Association, American Legion and Fleet Reserve.  He enjoyed boating, reading, golfing and was a card-playing aficionado who enjoyed regular games with groups and friends.  Jerry was fond of family gatherings especially spending time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Jerry was preceded in death by his loving wife of 62 years, Mary Patricia “Pat” (Resau) Vaeth who passed away in 2016; his son, Martin Edward Vaeth who died in 2005; his grandson, Brian Highsmith who died in 2015 and his five siblings, Mary Louise Wrightson, Howard and Edward Vaeth, Helen Muth and Nancy Halthaus.  Jerry is survived by two sons, Emmett J. Vaeth, Jr. “Jay” and his fiancé, Margaret of Berlin, MD and William Brian Vaeth of Edgewater, MD; his daughter, Nancy V. Rooney and her husband, Patrick of Bridgeville, DE; four grandsons, Jared (Sara), Jeremy, Michael and Carson Vaeth; three granddaughters, Courtney (Kenny) Mazzone, Katelynn (Joseph) Wilson and Kristin Vaeth; and six great-grandchildren.

Friends are invited to celebrate Jerry’s life with his family from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. on Thursday, February 23 at the Kalas Funeral Home & Crematory, 2973 Solomons Island Road, Edgewater, MD.  Mass of Resurrection will be offered at 11 a.m. on Friday, February 24 at Holy Family Catholic Church, 826 West Central Avenue, Davidsonville, MD 21035.  The Mass will be live streamed on Holy Family's Facebook page by clicking <a href="https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100064429102382">HERE</a>. Inurnment will follow at Lakemont Memorial Gardens.  In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Holy Family Catholic Church at the address above.  
Online condolences and tributes may be made by using the memories tab on the left.

Anna Lane Washington passed away on February 7, 2023 in Annapolis, MD.  She was born on July 9, 1929 in Belfast, North Ireland to William and Annie Lane.  Anna had four siblings: Billy Lane, Joe Lane, Mary Copeland, and Eileen Doran.  Anna survived the German bombing of Belfast during World War II.  In her young twenties, Anna visited an aunt in New York City under a work visa.  When the work visa period ended, she returned to Ireland. A few years later, she returned to the U.S. on a new work visa, once again working in New York City. The department store where she worked opened a new store in Philadelphia, PA and asked Anna to help open the new store. It was in Philadelphia where Anna met Bud Washington, freshly home from serving overseas in Japan with the U.S. Navy. After a brief courtship, they were married in October 1957.  The two moved to Bowie MD in 1965.   Anna and Bud lived in Bowie until 1977 and then moved to Davidsonville, MD.  In 1990, Bud retired from AT&T, and the two retired to Chestertown, MD.  Anna was happiest when surrounded by a house full of family.  Anna loved the holidays, when everyone could gather together.  She also loved when her family made a big fuss over her birthday.  She enjoyed listening to Irish music and was fond of an afternoon cocktail.  Anna laughed generously and enjoyed meeting new people and telling stories of her family and friends.  She was adored by everyone she met.  Anna was very generous, always having a gift in hand whether she was visiting you, or you were visiting her.  She was fearless, and feisty, even in her final days.  Anna loved the United States, but Ireland was her true home.   

Anna is survived by her husband of 65 years, Bud Washington; her three sons, Mark (Theresa) Washington, Gary Washington, and Craig (Jan) Washington.  Anna is also survived by her 10 grandchildren and one great-grandchild.

Mass of the Resurrection will be offered on Friday, April 14 at 11:00 am at Holy Family Catholic Church, 826 West Central Ave., Davidsonville, MD followed by a celebration of her rich and full life.

Online condolences may be made by using the Memories tab on this page.

Please check back for Frank's full obituary.

Friends are invited to celebrate Frank’s life on Saturday, February 11th from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 pm at the Kalas Funeral Home & Crematory, 2973 Solomons Island Rd., Edgewater, MD.

Interment will be private.

Online condolences may be made by using the Memories tab on this page.

Bernard H. Thuman Jr., 85, of Edgewater, Maryland passed away on February 6, 2023. Born on October 27, 1937 in Baltimore, to loving parents Bernard Sr. and Helena Thuman.

Bernard attended Holy Cross Elementary and graduated from Calvert Hall High School in Baltimore, going on to attend night school to earn an Associate’s Degree in Electrical Technology from Anne Arundel Community College. He also studied at Loyola University and Johns Hopkins University. After high school, he served in the U.S. Army Reserves. Bernard began developing his career skills long before college, entering the workforce at the age of 10. After serving in the Army Reserves, he began working for the Baltimore Gas and Electric Co. in Baltimore City as a draftsman in 1956, working his way up to several management positions in the Electrical Engineering Department, such as Public Works Coordinator and Supervisor of New Business Design to name a few. After retiring, he continued to work for BGE, which became Constellation Energy, until December of 2003, resulting in a 47-year career with the company.

Bernie was very active in the community. He was one of the founders of the Peninsula Athletic League (PAL), where he served as an Officer and was its first Commissioner of Baseball. His team went on to win the Annapolis City Championship. He also assisted with PAL youth football. He coached youth basketball at St. Mary’s and the Annapolis Recreation Center for many years. He was also a member of the Touchdown Club. He was active in fundraising for St. Mary’s parish and sports teams, and the construction of St. John Neumann Church. He was a member of the Annapolis Lions Club, and served as President, as well as holding numerous other board positions including Vice President.
 
Bernie’s work in the community did not go unnoticed. He was the recipient of many community awards and accolades. Under the governorship of Martin O’Malley, he was presented with a “Governor’s Volunteer Services Certificate”. He was also presented with an “Anne Arundel County Executives Citation of Appreciation” from county executive John Leopold. Bernie was recognized for his leadership and dedication multiple times by the Lions Club, receiving the “Lions Club Certificate of Appreciation” for invaluable services and cooperation, the “Certificate of Appreciation for Exceptional Leadership” as the first Vice President, “Lion of the Year” for outstanding service, loyalty, and devotion to Lionism, and a “Testimonial of Services Appreciation” as President of the Annapolis Lions Club.
 
He was also named “Volunteer of the Year” by the South County Senior Center. During his career with BGE, he was commended for outstanding workmanship by the company, including recognition of outstanding leadership as Chairman of the “Miss Utility Protection Committee”, and was presented with the “Gift of Life Blood Donor Award” in partnership with the Central Maryland Chapter of the Red Cross for donating 3 gallons of blood during his employment.

After hearing a woman shouting “Help me! Get my babies!”, he came upon a burning building. He entered without considering personal risk, and brought 3 children out as it was collapsing upon them. He re-entered upon her request to save another child, who unbeknownst to her had already been saved. The second floor started to collapse on top of him, but he escaped. He successfully returned the children safely to their mother. He never received any formal recognition for it, but was recognized for his efforts in a letter sent by the nuns that witnessed the event.
 
When he wasn’t volunteering, working, and contributing to the community, Bernie found enjoyment in golfing, softball, and basketball. He was a member of the Yankee Rebels Drum and Bugle Corps. and loved the music of Frank Sinatra.

In addition to his parents, Bernard is preceded in death by his sisters, Helen, Mary, Catherine, Esther, and Frances, and brother, Rev. Joseph Thuman, SJ. He is survived by his beloved wife of 62 years, Christine; devoted children, Tricia (Doug) Borrebach of Annapolis, Bernie (Genny) Thuman III of Annapolis, and Greg (Houfei Yang) of Texas; grandchildren, Drew (Becky), Jordan, Liz, and Katie, and great-grandson, Nathaniel, son of Drew and Becky. He was known as “Uncle Bernie” to countless nieces and nephews, and brother-in-law to Charlie, Tom, and Del.

Friends and family are invited to celebrate Bernie’s life on Thursday, February 16, 2023 at 10:30 am at St. John Neumann Catholic Church, 620 Bestgate Road, Annapolis, MD 21401.

Online condolences may be made by using the Memories tab on this page.

STEVE ROSS was born November 27, 1951 to the late Samuel Jackson and Minnie Eula Ross in Gaffney, South Carolina. Steve gave his life to the Lord at a young age when his mother would teach Sunday School in her living room. The Lord called him home on Sunday, February 5, 2023.

Steve moved to the Washington, DC at a very young age with his family and received his education in the Washington, DC public school system. He graduated from McKinley Technical High School before attending Maryland University for two years before leaving to care for his family when he found out his wife at the time, Anne Rone Ross was pregnant with their son, Steve B. Ross. Anne transitioned to be with the Lord in the year 1979. 

Later, Steve married Saleema Aldridge Ross June 9, 1983 whom he met while attending McKinley Technical High School in Washington, DC. Together they raised their sons Steve B. Ross and Robert Mack in the Washington DC area before moving to Fort Washington, Maryland in 1998. 

Coming from a family with generations of entrepreneurship, it was only natural for Steve to begin pursuing various entrepreneurial ventures including his own ice cream truck, a moving service, and a driving service to name a few. These ventures turned into him starting his own landscaping business where it was evident. Steve had a natural talent to run and succeed in business. He cut grass, managed his customers, did his own bookkeeping without the use of computers AND without mistake or fail. He was very successful building up generational wealth for his family while leaving a legacy of hard work and taking care of family. He just retired from landscaping at the end of the 2022 season. Steve also worked for the Tifereth Israel for over 25 years before retiring in 2018. He became the Maintenance Supervisor succeeding his father Samuel Ross, Sr. in the early 2000s. 

Preceding Steve in death are his wife Saleema Ross, parents Samuel and Minnie Ross, brother Fletcher, sisters Annie Ruth and Shirley, and niece Lecia Ross. Left to cherish his memory and continue his legacy are sons Steve Boody Ross and Robert Mack, brothers Samuel Ross Jr. (Theodora-D), Johnny Ross (Sandra), Billy Ross (Carolyn-D). Sister Betty Patterson (William), mother-in-law Delores Aldridge, sisters-in-law Jacqueline Ross, Aleema Aldridge and Dorothy Ross, three grandsons Kavon Jackson, Malachi McFarland, and Semajah Rawlings, one granddaughter Samara Wallace, 2 great-granddaughters Kimora Jackson, Kylie McFarland, Harlem Wallace, Ricardo Wallace, work son and cousin Anthony “Tony” Craft, 4 great aunts Terriza Jefferies, Alice Payne, Dorothy Nicholas and Delores Ross, and a host of nieces, nephews and friends.

Relatives and friends are invited to Steve's Life Celebration on Friday, February 17, 2023, from 10 a.m. until the start of the funeral at 11 a.m. at the KALAS FUNERAL HOME & CREMATORY, 6160 Oxon Hill Road, Oxon Hill, MD 20745. Interment private at a later date. 

Relatives and friends are invited to Albert's Life Celebration on Tuesday and Wednesday, February 28 and March 1, 2023, from 2 to 8 p.m. at the KALAS FUNERAL HOME & CREMATORY, 6160 Oxon Hill Road, Oxon Hill, MD 20745. Mass of Christian Burial offered on Thursday, March 2, 2023 at 10 a.m. at St. Columba Catholic Church, 7800 Livingston Rd., Oxon Hill, MD. Interment will follow at Gate of Heaven Cemetery, Silver Spring, MD.

Arrangements for Joan are private.  Online condolences and tributes can be made by using the memories tab on the left.

Ralph W. Ripperger, "Rip", a resident of Edgewater, MD for over 63 years, died on February 4, 2023, at Anne Arundel Medical Center in Annapolis, MD.  Born November 4, 1926, in Washington, DC to the late Charles and Rosalie Ripperger, he served his country in the U.S. Navy. Ralph enjoyed a long career as an auto mechanic.  He was a longtime member of the American Legion Post 226 and loved entertaining at his home and spending time with his family.  Ralph also enjoyed volunteering his time at Anne Arundel Medical Center and his daily walks at the Annapolis Mall. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his loving wife, Melba "Billie" Ripperger.  Ralph is survived by his daughter, Gail Gobbel, and her husband, Henry of Edgewater, MD; a sister, Jean Rupard of North Beach, MD; a brother, Ralph Kissinger of Selbyville, DE; a granddaughter, Sheli Gobbel; a great-granddaughter, Kaydence Leach; and his dear friend, Jean Schurr.  A celebration of life will be held at a later date. Memorial donations may be made in Ralph's name to Anne Arundel Medical Center, 2001 Medical Parkway, Annapolis MD 21401.  

A full obituary will be posted here soon.  Please leave a condolence for the family by signing the guestbook at the Memories tab located on this page.

Elizabeth Jean “Betty” Wolcott (nee Vernosky), age 87, passed away on Saturday, February 4, 2023 in Annapolis, MD. Born on Christmas Day 1935 in Lyon Mountain, NY to the late Joseph and Bertha Brien Vernosky, Betty graduated from high school and attended cosmetology school in Albany, NY. She began her career as a cosmetologist in Plattsburgh, NY before moving, with her family, to Bowie, MD. She was active in St. Pius X Catholic Church where her daughters attended school.  Betty is survived by her husband of 61 years, George Wolcott; her daughters, Julie and Debbie, 6 grandchildren, 4 great grandchildren and 4 nieces. Mass of the Resurrection will be offered on Saturday, February 18 at 11 am at Holy Family Catholic Church, 826 W. Central Ave., Davidsonville, MD. Holy Family will be live streaming the Mass on their Facebook page by visiting the link <a href="https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100064429102382">HERE</a>. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the Arthritis Foundation, PO Box 96280, Washington, DC 20077 or https://www.arthritis.org/honor-memorial-form. Condolences may be made by using the Memories tab on this page.

Maitland “Missy” Minnix, age 74 and a longtime resident of the Eastern Shore and who previously lived in Annapolis, died February 3, 2023 in Denton, MD after a two year battle with cancer.  Born in Washington, DC on July 22, 1948 to Allen and Maitland Minnix, she graduated from Bethesda-Chevy Chase High School.  She worked for many years in the real estate industry, working for numerous local home builders and assisting in new home construction sales.  After leaving real estate, she then worked for Home Instead, providing in-home comfort care for seniors.  Missy was an avid fan of the Washington Redskins.  She loved making wreaths, hanging out with her grandkids and spending quality time with her sister.

Missy is survived by her daughters; Wendy (Shawn) Bowyer of Cavetown, MD, Courtney (Jeff) Higgins of Centreville, MD and Lindsay Wight of Denton; bonus daughters Karen (Tim) Poole of Fort Washington, MD and Lynn (Tom) Bradford of Round Hill, VA; siblings Alison (Wes) Fuhrman of East New Market, MD and Hunter (Barbara) Minnix of Birmingham, MI;  grandchildren Jayden and Jared Robinson, Jenner and Justin Higgins, Trey Rinaudot, Madisan McMahon and Lauren and Lindsey Bair; and great grandson Hudson.  She was preceded in death by her parents, Allen C. and Maitland Minnix, and her brother, Allen Clark Minnix, III.

Relatives and friends are invited to join in Missy’s life celebration on Friday, February 10 from 11AM until her memorial service begins at 12 noon, at Kalas Funeral Home and Crematory, 2973 Solomons Island Road, Edgewater.  Interment will be private.  


Relatives and friends are invited to Helen's Life Celebration on Thursday, February 16, 2023 from 9 a.m. until the start of the funeral service at 10 a.m. at Fort Washington Baptist Church, 11516 Fort Washington Rd., Fort Washington, MD 20744. Interment Cedar Hill Cemetery, Suitland, MD. 

Obituary:   Roger Ray Rambo

Roger Ray Ray Rambo, a resident of Annapolis, MD, passed away Thursday, February 2, 2023, at home with his family. He was born on August 17, 1948, in Corpus Christi, TX. The last 25 years of his life were spent living with his Niece, Meghan Rambo, and her family in Annapolis MD. Roger enjoyed being with his family and taking care of the family cats, feeding the deer, drawing, watching sports, and attending his great nephew's activities.  He also loved celebrating holidays, especially birthdays. Prior to Covid he attended the Annapolis Senior Center and participated over Zoom during the pandemic.  He also enjoyed attending St. Margaret's Church. Roger loved the Blue Angels and looked forward to their performances. He served in the Army but was a big fan of the Naval Academy.  Roger often commented on how lucky he was to be with his family and have a loving home in Annapolis.

Roger was predeceased by his mother Vena Ladora Mooney Rambo, and father Raymond Rex Rambo.  He is survived by his brothers, Rex H. Rambo of Annapolis, MD, and Robert T. Rambo, sister-in-law, Beverly Rambo, niece, Nicole Rambo, and nephew, Marc Rambo of Texas, and his niece Meghan Rambo of Annapolis, MD, and her children, Rex Flanagan and Ray Flanagan, and his niece, Lynne Faulkner of Kailua, HI, and her children, Austin Faulkner, Nicholas Faulkner, and Jack Faulkner.   

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Roger's life on Sunday, February 19. 2023 from 2 pm until 4 pm at the Kalas Funeral Home & Crematory, 2973 Solomons Island Rd., Edgewater, MD 21037. A funeral service will be held on Monday, February 20, 2023, at 11 am at St. Margarets Episcopal Church, 1601 Pleasant Plains Rd, Annapolis, MD 21409. Burial will follow in the church cemetery.


If you would like to leave a condolence for his family, please use the memories tab on this page.

A complete obituary will be available soon.

Obituaries

John Sampar

Sandra King

Willard Davis

Helen Vinluan

Rosemary Weller

Armando Bassiwa

Chester Freeman

JoAnn Atkins

Dr. Louis Kaufman

Patricia Smith

Deborah Cross

Jerry Vaeth

Anna Washington

Frank Simmons, Jr.

Bernard Thuman, Jr.

Steve Ross

Albert Deocampo

Joan Bieber

Ralph Ripperger

Edna Pikulski

Elizabeth Wolcott

Maitland Minnix

Helen Sinclair

Roger Rambo