Kalas Funeral Home & Crematory

Deborah “Debbie” J. Harris, 68, of Edgewater, MD passed away on August 4, 2021. She was born in Laramie, Wyoming to the late Leroy and Audrey Lemons on January 14, 1953. Debbie worked in the printing industry at Harris Plus with her husband and stepchildren. Her greatest joy was being able to take care of others, including animals, as well as spending time with family. Debbie is survived by her husband, Harold; stepchildren, Quinn (Erin) Harris of Annapolis and Kristen (Donald ”Pedro”) Brooks of Dunkirk and six grandchildren, Connor, Aidan and Bailey Harris and Camden, Chase and Brayden Brooks. A service for Debbie will be planned for a later date. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to: The SPCA of Anne Arundel County, 1815 Bay Ridge Ave, Annapolis, MD 21403.

Clavelina “Lee” Quidangen Sarmiento, of Fort Washington, MD, passed away on August 3, 2021 after a brief illness.

Clavelina was born in San Marcelino, Zambales, Philippines on October 26, 1934. In 1946, she moved to Washington, DC with her parents Melchor and Felixberta Quidangen, as one of the early Filipino families who settled in the Washington area. Clavelina graduated from Anacostia High School in 1953 and George Washington University in 1958. She taught home economics for various Prince George’s County public schools for 30 years. She was a longtime parishioner of St. Columba Catholic Church in Oxon Hill, MD. Clavelina loved to see new places and travel the world — from the Caribbean to Austria to Egypt to Israel to Hawaii, and everywhere in between.

Clavelina was the beloved wife for 61 years of Pedro “Pete” D. Sarmiento; cherished mother of Minda (Kurt Wehrs) Sarmiento of Austin, TX; and devoted grandmother of Brianna Wehrs of Boston, MA and Peter “Wyeth” Wehrs of Tucson, AZ. She is also survived by two brothers-in-law Tony (Janet Silva) Sarmiento and Mike (Ino) Sarmiento; two sisters-in-law Helen Bandong and Maria Sarmiento; and many cousins, nieces, nephews, friends, and colleagues.

Relatives and friends are invited to a visitation on Sunday August 15 at 2 to 4 p.m. and 6 to 8 p.m.at Kalas Funeral Home (6160 Oxon Hill Road, Oxon Hill, MD 20745). The funeral mass will be held on Monday August 16 at 10:30 a.m. at St. Columba Catholic Church (7804 Livingston Road, Oxon Hill, MD 20745). Clavelina will be interred at Arlington National Cemetery at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, contributions to honor her memory can be made to St. Columba School Education Fund (7800 Livingston Road, Oxon Hill, MD 20745).



Thomas C. Myers, 71, of Annapolis, MD, passed away suddenly on August 3, 2021 following a heart attack.  Born on November 22, 1949 in Annapolis to the late Louis and Stella Myers, he graduated from Annapolis High School in 1967.  He served his country as a Corporal in the U. S. Marine Corps and served time in Vietnam, before entering the computer field where he became an expert at resolving hardware and software issues.  He was a member of the Trinity United Methodist Church in Annapolis.  He was instrumental in encouraging men of the Church to be involved in the United Methodist Men’s Group and his heart led him to create and send cards to the homebound members of the congregation, as well as others who might have needed a cheerful greeting.  In addition, in his spare time he enjoyed assembling jigsaw puzzles and painting.

He was the beloved husband of Judith Myers, devoted father of  Brian Myers, who preceded him in death and Matthew Myers, grandfather of Hayden Myers and brother of Bobbie Myers.  

A visitation will be held from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. on Sunday, August 22 at the Kalas Funeral Home & Crematory, 2973 Solomons Island Road, Edgewater, MD.  A funeral service will be held on Monday, August 23 at 11 a.m. at Trinity United Methodist Church, 1300 West Street, Annapolis, MD 21401.  Burial will follow at Lakemont Memorial Gardens in Davidsonville, MD.  In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Trinity United Methodist Church.  Online condolences may be offered using the Memory Wall tab at the top of this page.


Robert Lee Wilson, 78, a resident of Edgewater for over 20 years and previously of Severna Park, MD, passed away on August 2, 2021 at the South River Health and Rehabilitation Center from complications of pneumonia and ongoing health and back-related maladies that ultimately took his life.

Born in Big Stone Gap, VA on March 8, 1943, Robert had a Bachelor’s degree from the University of Maryland, and a Master’s of Science of Strategic Intelligence degree from the Defense Intelligence College. One of his most profound moments in life was his time spent on the USS Liberty especially June 8th 1967. Robert served his country in the U.S. Air Force.  Prior to retiring in the early 2000s, he was a long-tenured employee of the National Security Agency.

In addition to being a sports and physical fitness enthusiast, his greatest hobby and joy was archeology and history.  He’d also served many years with the American Research Center in Egypt as its Vice President, and developed a tremendous group of friends he always cherished.

Robert was a loving, caring father and husband. His level of empathy, good common sense, humor and humility knew no bounds. We all were fortunate to have him in our lives.

He is survived by his spouse of over 39 years, My Kieu Wilson; two children, Kevin Wilson and Kelly Gaestel and their respective families.   
 
Relatives and friends are invited to celebrate Robert’s life at the Kalas Funeral Home & Crematory, 2973 Solomons Island Road, Edgewater, MD on Saturday August 7 from 2 to 4 pm. An online guestbook is available by visiting the link on this page.

Phyllis "Penny" Cantin, 64, a 37-year resident of Edgewater, MD, died on August 2, 2021 at Anne Arundel Medical Center. Born January 21, 1957 in Annapolis, MD to the late Norman E. and Tamea Nead, Penny graduated from Severna Park High School.  She enjoyed arts & crafts, gardening, fishing, and crabbing.  Penny is survived by her husband of 36 years, Bobby Cantin; two children, Shawn Cantin and his fiancee, Ashlee Power of Severn, MD, and Melissa "Mo" DiFranco and her husband, Gregory DiFranco of Baltimore, MD; two siblings, Norman Nead and his wife, Linda of Burtonsville, MD and Dottie Nead McRae of Tuscan, AZ; and two granddaughters, Windsor and Geneva DiFranco.  A celebration of Penny's life will be held at a later date.  An online condolences may be offered by clicking on the memory wall tab.

David Gates “Dave” Lyons, 79, a 10-year resident of Deale, MD and previously of Corning, NY, passed away on August 2, 2021 at his home.  Born on February 28, 1942 in Bryn Mawr, PA to the late Charles and Gertrude Lyons, Dave graduated from Horace Greeley High School in Chappaqua, NY in 1960.  He achieved Eagle Scout rank and went on to earn a BSME degree from Lehigh University in 1964 and a MBA degree in Finance from Columbia University in 1969.  

While at Lehigh University, Dave joined the wrestling team, Theta Delta Chi fraternity and ROTC.  After graduation, he served in the U.S. Navy, attending Officer Candidate School before being assigned to the Charleston Naval Base in South Carolina as the Assistant Resident Officer in Charge of Construction (AROICC).  His next assignment took him to My Tho in the Mekong Delta region of South Vietnam.  Assigned as the OICC there, Dave led the construction of a Navy PBR (patrol boat, river) base.  In recognition of his military service, Dave was awarded the National Defense and Vietnam Service Medals, Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal and the Bronze Star Medal with the Combat ”V” clasp for valor.

Dave joined Corning Inc. in 1969 and enjoyed a 34-year career in manufacturing that took him from Corning, NY to Louisville, KY, Blufton, IN, Paden City and Martinsburg, WV.  He retired as Vice President of Environmental Engineering responsible for Corporate Facility Engineering and Environmental Compliance.  He served on several Boards of Directors, including the Peoples National Bank in Martinsburg, WV, Corning Hospital in Corning, NY and the Everglades Club Condominium Association in Naples, FL where he and his family enjoyed vacationing.

Dave was a history buff with a special interest in fostering family connections between the past and present.  He investigated the heroic history of his first father-in law, LT Col. Kent Fay’s service in the U.S. Army until his death in Rully, France after D-Day.  Dave was an avid Boston Red Sox fan and loved the time he spent in Cape Cod.  He enjoyed boating, fishing, swimming, and listening to pipe organ music.  Most of all, he was an enthusiastic cheerleader for any activity his children or grandchildren participated in!

In addition to his parents, Dave was preceded in death by his first wife of 39 years, Joanne Fay Lyons who died in 2004.  He remarried in 2011 and is survived by his loving wife, Jeanne Marie Lyons; two sons, Sean (Lisa) Lyons of Sterling, VA and Kent (Sylvie Dugrenier) Lyons also of Sterling, VA; one daughter, Suzanne (John) Chevalier of Loveland, OH; a brother, Richard (Janice) Lyons of Pisgah Forest, NC, two stepsisters, Jane Holmes of New York and Carol Ruderman of Connecticut; seven grandchildren, Aidan, McKenna and Ryder Lyons, Ryan, Zachary and Kyra Chevalier, and Carolina Celnik.  Dave is also survived by three “bonus” children who came as a gift with his second marriage, Teri (Jim) Pickering, Laura (Mike) Van Scoyoc and John  (Jen) Boehm; and eight grandchildren, David and Emily Pickering, Eric and Jake Van Scoyoc, Jessica Kelly, and Jack, Sophie and Ava Grace Boehm.

A celebration of Dave’s life will be held at Grace Presbyterian Church, 4012 Birdsville Road, Davidsonville, MD 20135 on Oct. 2, 2021 at 11:00 a.m. For those unable to attend the service, it can be viewed online by visiting <a href="https://adekproductions.com/lyons.html">https://adekproductions.com/lyons.html</a> In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the Wellfleet Historical Society, P.O. Box 58, 266 Main Street, Wellfleet, MA 02667 <a href="https://secure.squarespace.com/checkout/donate?donatePageId=5b1eab80758d46c9cdc64c6f&ss_cvr=75137a50-f0ba-41f4-addc-1325c718b2e5%7C1628454498914%7C1628454498914%7C1628454498914%7C1&ss_cvt=1628454498914">(www.wellfleethistoricalsociety.org)</a> or Hospice of the Chesapeake, 90 Ritchie Highway, Pasadena, MD 21122 <a href="https://www.hospicechesapeake.org/giving/donate-now/">(www.hospicechesapeake.org)</a>. Online condolences may be offered by accessing the Memory Wall tab at the top of this page.

Goldie Irene Dove, 81, a resident of Edgewater, MD, died at her home surrounded by her loving family on Sunday, August 1 of natural causes. Born on March 28, 1940 in Lothian, MD to the late James P. and Elizabeth I. Ireland, Irene graduated in 1958 from Southern High School. She worked as a waitress at the Dutch Pantry and a bookkeeper with Annapolis Tree Experts. Irene was a member of Mt. Zion United Methodist Church and enjoyed gardening and doing word search puzzles. The walls in her home were covered with pictures of family and friends because she loved to look at them. Irene was preceded in death by her husband of 38 years, John Henry Dove; her stepsons, Dennis L. Dove and Kevin M. Dove; her siblings, William S., Warren L., James R., James F. and Ruby L. Ireland, Evelyn D. Armiger and Hilda L. Dove.  She is survived by her children, Dennis Taylor and Betty J. Dove; stepchildren, Brandon J. Dove, Sr., Mark S. Dove, and Tracey N. Dove; and many grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Friends are invited to celebrate Irene’s life at the Kalas Funeral Home and Crematory, 2973 Solomons Island Rd., Edgewater, MD on Monday, August 9 from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 pm. Funeral service will be held at Mt. Zion United Methodist Church, 122 Bayard Rd., Lothian, MD on Tuesday, August 10 at 10 am. Interment Lakemont Memorial Gardens in Davidsonville, MD. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Hospice of the Chesapeake, 90 Ritchie Hwy., Pasadena, MD 21122. Online condolences and tributes may be made by using the link on this page.

Mark Francis Crane, 83, passed away on August 1, 2021 at his home in Annapolis, MD. Born in June of 1938 in Annapolis, MD to the late Leo Crane and Frances O’Neill Crane, Mark’s father was tragically killed that same year when his Navy plane crashed off KaenaPoint, Oahu, HI while flying a patrol mission.

He was raised with boundless love by his mother, Frankie, and his older sister, Patsy. Mark attended St. Mary’s School and eventually followed in his father’s footsteps and attended the US Naval Academy, where he earned a well-deserved reputation as an athlete, prankster and respected young leader.

After the Naval Academy, Mark went on to serve many years in the Navy fleet aboard destroyers. He attended the Navy Post Graduate School in Monterey, CA and eventually returned to the Naval Academy as a math and engineering professor, being a favored teacher among the Midshipmen. After retiring from the Navy, Mark worked in private industry only to return to the Naval Academy for his “dream job”, as the financial head in funding appropriations. He retired in 1998. 

Mark was the devoted and loving husband of Patricia Shea Crane. They were married in June 1963 shortly after his graduation from the USNA and were happily married for 58 years. Together they raised six children and enjoyed spending time with their family and their grandchildren. Mark’s sense of humor, quiet charisma, unassuming intellect and continuous pursuit to never take life too seriously was loved by all. In his later years, he was most content attending daily Mass,strolling the grounds of the Academy with Pat and relaxing on the porch in the evening for happy hour with a Sam Adams in hand.

Mark is survived by his wife, Patricia Shea Crane; his children, Marcus Crane, Jennifer (Todd) Kousky, John (Meg) Crane, Annie (Bill) James, Kristina (Kristian) Marquez and Leo (Claire) Crane; his siblings Patsy Nuss, Francie Filkins, Ramie Sakal and Michael Sweeney, 27 grandchildren and many extended family members. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brothers, Leo O. Crane and Johnny Sweeney.

Mass of Christian Burial will be offered at St. John Neumann Catholic Church, 620 Bestgate Rd., Annapolis, MD on Monday, August 9 at 10:30 am. Interment will be at the U.S. Naval Academy Columbarium at a later date.

Condolences may be made by using the tab on this page.

Judith Ellen (Fizer) Murphy died at her home in Fort Washington, MD on August 1, 2021.  Judith was born December 20, 1941 in Dayton, Ohio to the late William D. and Mary Alice Fizer.  She is survived by her husband of 56 years Thomas J. (Tim) Murphy, daughters Linda E. Murphy of Silver Spring, MD, Laura A. (Murphy) Houser (William) of Brookeville, MD, sons Timothy J. of La Plata, MD, and Brian W. of Milton, NY, as well as two grandchildren, Ryan Houser and Moira Houser.

Judith graduated from Francis C. Hammond High School in Alexandria, VA and from the Washington School for Secretaries.  Judith taught children in preschool and at daycare, which brought her much joy; though, her greatest joy was her family.

Visitation on Friday, August 6, 2021 from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at St. Ignatius Catholic Church in the school hall, 2317 Brinkley Road, Fort Washington, MD 20744. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated in memory of Judy on Saturday, August 7, 2021 at 11:00 a.m., at St. Ignatius Catholic Church in the school hall, 2317 Brinkley Road, Fort Washington, MD 20744.  A private interment will be held at a later date at the Maryland Veterans Cemetery, Cheltenham. Arrangements by Kalas Funeral Home & Crematory, 6160 Oxon Hill Road, Oxon Hill, MD.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to <a href="https://www.michaeljfox.org/donate" target="_blank">The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research</a> or <a href="https://montgomeryhospice.org/donate-now/" target="_blank">Montgomery and Prince George’s Hospice</a>.



Richard J. “Rich” Costello, 83, a resident of Annapolis for more than 40 years, passed away on July 31, 2021 at his home.  Born on February 1, 1938 in Philadelphia, PA to the late Loretta and John Costello, Rich attended Most Blessed Sacrament Elementary School and West Catholic High School before receiving a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Education from West Chester University.  He later earned a Master’s degree from Villanova University.  Rich worked for Charles Scribner & Sons Publisher and the Education Films Division at CBS before establishing his own media company.  A parishioner at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Annapolis and a long-term member of the former Crabtowne Ski Club, Rich was a great communicator and networker.  His wonderful stories will be missed by all who knew him.  He was a lifelong supporter of the arts, voracious reader, collector of books and jazz enthusiast.  He also loved ballroom dancing with his beloved partner and companion of 22 years, Adele Baron.  In addition to Adele, Rich is survived by his daughter, Kathleen Beres of Crofton, MD; a brother, John Costello of Essington, PA; two sisters, Michelle Taulman of Port St. Lucie, FL and Carol Dahl of Camden, NJ; five grandchildren, Noah, Nathan, Nicholas, Nolan and Noelle Beres; and an extended family that includes Adele’s children and grandchildren.  A Memorial Mass will be offered at St. John Neumann Catholic Church, 620 N. Bestgate Road, Annapolis, MD on Saturday, August 28 at 10:30 am.  In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Annapolis Symphony Orchestra, 801 Chase Street, Ste. 204, Annapolis, MD 21401.  Condolences may be made by using the tab on this page.

On Friday, July 30, 2021, Jean Bochniewicz entered into eternal rest. Beloved wife, loving mother, and cherished grandmother, Jean will be forever remembered for her devotion to her family, love of travel, passion for rescue dogs, and her quick Irish wit. From family members, to friends, to her beloved pets, she dedicated her life to caring for others. Ever a trailblazer, as a young, single mother, she worked tenaciously to climb through the ranks in a competitive, male-dominated workforce; marched in equal rights rallies; and was an early advocate for AIDS victims. Her natural curiosity and determination lead her to attend an Ivy League university and complete her bachelor’s degree while working full-time. She enjoyed traveling and was able to travel extensively throughout North America and Europe. 

Jean is survived by her devoted husband, Richard Bochniewicz; her adoring daughters, Carrie Schilling and Laura Gavin; her cherished grandchildren, Lindsay and Aidan Gavin; her dedicated sons-in-law, Fritz Schilling and William Gavin; her sister Meriel Fulford, and numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her beloved mother Eileen Godo, sister Nancy Bielema, and brother Larry Godo.
 
The family is planning a private service. Interment will be in the family plot at Resurrection Cemetery. Those who wish, please make memorial donations in memory of Jean to their local animal rescue.
 

Robert Thomas “Bob” Peters has gone to meet the Lord.   Surrounded by his wife, children and grandchildren, he was at peace.
The son of William and Bertha Peters, Bob was born in Queens, NY and attended Brooklyn Technical High School and City College of New York.  A summer job at the age of 16 turned into a 53 year career in the printing ink business.  In 1969, Bob and two partners started their own company, Graphic Fine Color.  That company later became part of Kohl & Madden and Bob became the Branch Manager of their Baltimore plant until his retirement.
Bob belonged to many industry associations, including serving as President of the Research and Engineering Council of the Graphic Art Industry.  He also belonged to the National Association of Printing Ink Makers, the Printing Industry of America and the Nonparells Society.  He was honored by his peers with the Pioneer Ink Award and the Technical Achievement Award.  As an expert on environmental issues, he served on a special committee with Carol Browner, Administrator of the EPA under President Clinton.  Their goal was to preserve the environment with input from the business community.
Bob loved to cook, travel, play Scrabble, Navy football, the New York Giants especially when they played and beat the Redskins, and spending time with his grandchildren.  He is survived by his loving wife of 62 years, Margaret Peters;  children, Robert Scott, Jeffrey James, Gregg Michael and Leigh Ann; grandchildren Loghan, Brandon and Margo Peters, and Jake and Ryleigh Stevens; brothers Joseph and his wife Toni and Richard Peters; nine nieces and nephews and a very special caregiver, Diane Peters.  He was preceded in death by his brother William.
A Memorial Mass will be held on Monday, August 23 at 10:30 AM at St. John Neumann Catholic Church, 620 N. Bestgate Road, Annapolis, followed by a celebration of life luncheon at Renditions Golf Club, 1380 W. Central Avenue, Davidsonville.  
Donations in Bob’s memory may be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital (www.stjude.org) or the Mia Sutphin Foundation (www.miasutphinfoundation.org.).  


Sherry Jean Stover, 66 a resident of Riva, MD and previously of Crownsville, MD passed away on Wednesday, July 28, 2021.  Born March 24, 1955 in Annapolis, MD to the late Henry and Louella Ford Snodgrass,  Sherry graduated from Southern High School in 1974 and worked as a secretary for 27 years for the State of Maryland.  She was a member of Chapter 661 Woman of the Moose in Annapolis, and became a Senior Regent in the Academy of Friendship.  She is survived by her loving husband of 12 years, James "Jay" Stover; two children, James Ryan Stover and Niki Ann Orndorff both of Riva; and a sister, Shelby  Wilson of Glen Burnie. In addition to her parents, Sherry was preceded in death by a brother, Michael Wayne Snodgrass.  Memorial contributions may be made to Hospice of the Chesapeake, 90 Ritchie Hwy., Pasadena, MD 21122.

William Martin Lenck 1932-2021 of Temple Hills MD died peacefully at home on Wednesday, July 28, 2021. He was 88 years old and had suffered a slow deterioration of health after a fall in March of 2020. He was deeply beloved and is survived by his children Laura Galbreath and husband Michael, William R. Lenck and wife Marcia, and Catherine Canniff and husband Edward; his grandchildren Ashley Solan and husband Joel, Timothy Canniff and wife Alexandria, Brian and Daniel Canniff, Hannah and Rachel Galbreath; and his great-grandchildren Skylar and Kora Solan. He was predeceased by his wife Anna Marie and dear daughter Marie Helena Anderson.
                           
Bill was born in Aland, Finland and came to America with his parents at age three. His father was an engineer and builder, and built homes for the family in Oxon Hill, Maryland. Bill met and later married his neighbor Anna Marie Mistretta, whose family had emigrated from Italy. After their marriage, they built their home between those of both sets of parents on family land. Together, the three homes were the site of many joyous events and traditions over the years. Their children all enjoyed growing up surrounded by the love of their parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles and cousins. Bill continued to manage all of the land until his passing.
 
After graduating from the University of Maryland Law School, Bill served in the army and was a special agent for the FBI. In 1962 he became an Attorney Advisor to the Drug Enforcement Administration and began his very successful career in the Department of Justice. Bill rose to be the Chief Counsel of the DEA and continued consulting with the DEA into his retirement. His legal writings and briefs included the Drug Agents’ Guide to Forfeiture and the State Model Drug Paraphernalia Act. He was a long-term member of the Federal Bar Association, the Supreme Court Bar and the Maryland Bar. Most importantly, he remained best of friends with his law school and DEA colleagues.


His professional accomplishments are impressive, but he found his greatest joy in retirement. He was an avid sailor, earned his captain’s license and sailed from Florida to Maryland. He savored pink sunsets, and loved crabbing, fishing, playing cards, tennis, riding motorcycles, repairing vehicles, watching football, westerns and reading the newspaper daily. He and Anna Marie spent their time between Maryland and Sarasota, Florida, staying close to life-long friends for many years until Anna Marie passed. Bill remained very active in his community, particularly with the Oxon Hill Recreation Club. He worked at a local engine shop and continued to teach at the FBI Academy in Quantico, VA.  

His most important “job” was daycare provider to his grandchildren. He cherished his grandchildren in Maryland and cared for them daily. He often drove eight hours to Massachusetts to visit with his grandsons and teach them to play tennis, cards and pool. He also helped his children and wife through the most difficult times in their lives battling cancer. He was always there for his children, grandchildren and his beautiful young great grandchildren. Bill was very generous with his family and friends; he was always there to listen, lend a hand, a car, a truck, a few dollars, whatever was needed. Bill’s 88 years were very active and filled with love and family. He will be dearly missed.


A gathering for family and friends will be held on Friday, August 6 at 10:30 a.m. at Kalas Funeral Home & Crematory, located at 6160 Oxon Hill Rd. in Oxon Hill, MD, followed by a memorial service at 11 a.m. There will be a private burial at Charles Memorial Gardens in Leonardtown, MD where he will rest alongside his wife, Anna Marie, and daughter, Marie. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Bill’s name to Saint Columba School, 7800 Livingston Rd in Oxon Hill, MD 20745.





Born in Cavite City, Philippines and of Fort Washington, Maryland. Passed away on Wednesday, July 28, 2021, the beloved wife of deceased Leopoldo Tolentino, beloved mother of nine surviving children: Sylvia, Esperanza, Corazon, Remedios, Olivia, Caridad, Susana, Maria Fe, and Leopoldo Jr. Has 12 grandchildren and 9 great grandchildren.

Relatives and friends are invited to Beatriz Tolentino’s Life Celebration at the Kalas Funeral Home and Crematory, 6160 Oxon Hill Road, Oxon Hill, Maryland  20745 on August 1 from 2:00 to 6:00 pm. Mass of Christian Burial will be offered on Monday, August 2 at 10:00 am at St Columba Catholic Church, 7800 Livingston Road, Oxon Hill, Maryland 20745. Entombment is at Resurrection Cemetery, 8000 Woodyard Rd. Clinton, Maryland 20735.


Susan J. Ellingsworth, 74, of Annapolis, MD and previously of California, passed away at her home on July 28, 2021. Susan was born in Maryland to the late Ward and Barbara Grabill on January 3, 1947. Susan was a graduate of Albert Einstein High School in Kensington, MD. She worked as a draftsmen for the Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory and, during the time she lived in California, helped run a family roofing and sheet metal business. Susan enjoyed spending time with her friends and loved all animals, especially her cat, Lexi. In her younger years Susan was an avid craftsperson and wonderful artist. She was a member of the American Legion Post 226 Auxiliary, loved country music and  a good ride on her motorcycle. 

Susan is survived by her two sisters, Janet Grabill of Ocean City, MD and Donna Payne and her husband, Robert of Lake Wylie, SC. 

In lieu of flowers a donation may be made in Susan's name to the Anne Arundel County SPCA. Online condoloences may be left by using the memory wall tab on this page.

Friends are invited to celebrate Barbara’s life at the Kalas Funeral Home & Crematory, 2973 Solomons Island Rd., Edgewater, MD on Tuesday, August 3 from 10 am until her funeral service begins at 12 pm. Interment will follow at Gate of Heaven Cemetery in Silver Spring, MD. Condolences may be made by using the tab on this page.

Dr. Zito "Jet" Celis Alba passed away in the hospital near his home of Fort Washington, MD on July 26th, 2021 at the age of 89.

He was born in the Philippines, raised in Dumaguete City, Negros Oriental, to Alejo Teodosio Alba, Sr. and Victoria Alba, nee Celis. He was 1 of 13 children:  Nine brothers and four sisters.

During World War II, many were driven to the mountains.  As a teenager during this time, he spent time hunting, fishing, and farming with his siblings and cousins to survive. They became proficient in making hand-made tools and toys out of what nature provided.  He was often a step ahead when it came to some of the competitions with his brothers.

After his family survived the War, he attended Negros Oriental Provincial High School, then on to Manila Central University where he was president of the student body his senior year, and he was graduated cum laude.  He went on to receive his Doctor of Dental Surgery.  He took the Philippine national dentistry board exam and placed 3rd in the country.

In 1959, he came to the United States as an Eastman Dental Scholar at the University of Rochester in New York.  In 1962, he earned his Masters of Science in Periodontics, while a student instructor at Georgetown University.  He took the Dental Boards for Maryland, and opened his dental practice.  He completed a second discipline in Endodontics.  

He met his wife Aurora, and they married in 1970 in Maryland.  They have two sons.

He was thought highly of and sought after by many of his dental patients through the years.  He had "the touch" as some would describe it as he was able to provide dental treatment with less pain through his techniques.  He maintained his sole practice in Temple Hills Maryland until the age of 87 in early 2020.

In addition to his dental practice, which he enjoyed, he loved to spend time with his family and his close friends.  He was a humble, reserved person and a family man.  He loved to fish and was an avid golfer.  He was an active member of the Pinoy Golfers Association, participating in various tournaments and has won many trophies.  If he weren't at the office, he was at the golf course.   As a true Marylander he loved to eat Maryland blue crabs with his family.  Going to the crab house was quite common.  When his children were young, the family made anticipated yearly trips to the beach.  In recent years he made yearly trips to the Philippines together with good friends to visit relatives, play the beautiful golf courses and join golf tournaments.  He also looked forward to the delicious native foods of home.  

He is survived by his loving wife, Aurora Alba; his sons Glenn Alba and Arthur Alba (daughter-in-law JoAhn Alba, granddaughter Amber Alba); and cousin, Virgilia Codimos. His surviving siblings are brothers Erundino Alba and Jose Alba, and sisters Columna Ruanto and Maria Valencia.

Thank you, Dad, for everything you have provided us.  You are now in comfort in Heaven.  We will miss you. We love you.

Relatives and friends are invited to Dr. Alba's Life Celebration at the Kalas Funeral Home & Crematory, 6160 Oxon Hill Road, Oxon Hill, Maryland 20745 on Friday, August 6 from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. Mass of Christian Burial will be offered on Saturday, August 7 at 10:30 a.m. at Saint Columba Catholic Church, 7800 Livingston Road, Oxon Hill, Maryland 20745. Entombment is at Resurrection Cemetery, 8000 Woodyard Road, Clinton, Maryland 20735.


Leon Washington, the son of the late Frank and Ollie Mae Washington, was born on October 5, 1933 in Santee, SC. He was preceded in death by his four  siblings; Elby Washington, Della Morris, Bertha Bush, and Sylvester Washington. He peacefully departed this life on Monday, July 26, 2021 at the age of 87. As a result of his generous spirit and pleasant personality, he was loved by many. His influence will forever remain in the lives of all who knew him. 

Leon spent a loving childhood with his parents and four siblings. He lived his early years in Santee, S.C., until he relocated to Washington, D.C. with his parents. Leon entered the United States Army as a Medic in 1953. Then, he attended a  tailoring vocational education program at Armstrong High School that prepared him for a successful career at the Department of Agriculture in Washington, D.C., where he served 30 years before retiring. 

Leon was a fiery sports enthusiast; he enjoyed watching a variety of games. Most importantly, he was an avid Redskins football fan who purchased his first season tickets in 1958. He followed the Redskins from 1958 through the years with the Hogs, and continued to the present. He was always in conversations about the draft and the upcoming seasons. He also played cards and enjoyed meeting with his friends to play pinnacle and watch Redskins away games. While Leon was a sports fan, he also was an athlete during his teen and adult years. Additionally, he was a recreational bowler who bowled with a local bowling team. He also was a music lover who enjoyed Motown sounds. Leon could often be seen rocking to the beat of oldies at any moment in the day.

On another note, Leon could dress! One would be remiss if the fact that Leon walked with style in his tailored suits, Stacey Adams shoes, and Kango hats was not highlighted. He treasured his leather coats that were worn with crisp white shirts to compliment his stylish blazers. He was truly a sharp dresser from head to toe.

Leon’s life will forever be cherished in the lives of his friends and family. He is survived by his longtime companion, Betty Blount; a wife from a previous marriage, Delores Washington-Cole; his loving children, Lionel Wood (Kassandra Wood, wife), Brenda Washington-Agunyego, Linda Williams-Marlin (Larry Marlin, husband), and Leon Washington Jr.; step-daughter, Evelyn Miller-Wood (Tony Wood, husband); and grandchildren, Ignacio Washington (Njeri Washington, wife), Keturah Williams, Kiley Williams, Jasmine Nicole Wood, Elijah Wood, Maliik Wood; great grandchildren, Danisha Bailey, Isis Jarvis-Washington, Aurora Jarvis-Washington; a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

Relatives and friends are invited to Leon's Life Celebration on Tuesday, August 10, 2021 from 10 a.m. until time of service at 11 a.m. at the KALAS FUNERAL HOME & CREMATORY, 6160 Oxon Hill Rd., Oxon Hill, MD. Interment with military honors at  Maryland Veterans Cemetery, Cheltenham, MD immediately following the funeral. 




"I Love You More"

Doris Cook, 95, a 30 year resident of Annapolis and previously of Fairfax, VA, passed away on July 26, 2021, only two days shy of her 96th birthday.  Known by multiple unique and loving names, including "Gumma", "Mumsy" and Eustance, Doris was born in Queens, NY to the late Emily and Edward Doran.  After graduating high school, Doris began working for the FBI Fingerprint Identification Division where she met her future husband, William "Bill" Thomas Cook.  Doris married into a family that was larger than life, known to us as "The Bergmanns", "Bergmanville" and "The Beach".  They were a special gift of family, memories and love.  Those who have gone before us are still sharing stories and know they are watching the summer sunsets and God's blessings.  Wanting to share their love for each other with children, Doris and William adopted a son, Tom, now deceased and daughter, Carol, and dedicated themselves to making sure the children knew how especially loved they were because they were not just born, but chosen.

Doris was a member of the Truro Episcopal Church in Fairfax and Calvary United Methodist Church in Annapolis.  An avid bridge player, Doris was a member of the Heritage Harbour Bridge Club.  She was also a talented painter, seamstress and cross-stitcher, and as a member of her garden club, she found happiness and comfort in her love of gardens, both with wildflowers and landscapes.  Her second cousin and goddaughter, Karen Agnetta, has a rose garden that is extra special because she names each rose bush for  family and friends, including a beautiful lavender-pink bush named Doris Elizabeth.  Doris enjoyed traveling the world and in every treasured moment she spent with her family, especially her grandchildren and great grandchildren.  She shared many family gatherings with Eric and Betty, along with Linda and Nancy in her home, one that was full of love, laughter and warmth.

Preceded in death by her loving husband, William, who died in 1991, and her cherished son, Thomas "Tommy" Cook, Doris is survived by her devoted daughter, Carol Louise and her husband Tim McGreer of Edgewater; three granddaughters, Talena Irwin of Pennsylvania, Tiffany Renee and her husband Nate Martin of Edgewater and Kiersten Leigh McGreer of Deale, MD; and two great grandchildren, Liam and Nora Martin.

A private funeral service was held on Wednesday, August 11 at Fairfax Memorial Park.  A celebration of life service is to be determined at a later date.  In planning for her death, Doris would say, "I love flowers, but would prefer that any money to be spent on flowers be sent to a charity instead."  In keeping with their mother's wishes, her family requests, in lieu of flowers, donations to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital or the charity of your choice.

Douglas A, Mitchell, 55, a resident of Annapolis, MD, died on July 25, 2021 in Baltimore, MD due to liver failure. Born on December 1, 1965 in Annapolis to the late Charles P. and Dora J. Dulaney Mitchell, Doug was a stone cutter as well as caretaker for Quiet Waters Farm. In his spare time he enjoyed motorcycles. Doug is survived by his daughter, Megan Mitchell of Arnold, MD; his sister, Karen Mitchell of Dunkirk, MD and his grandson, Dakota. Friends are invited to celebrate Doug's life on Thursday, July 29 from 11 am until his funeral service begins at 12 pm at the Kalas Funeral Home & Crematory, 2973 Solomons Island Rd., Edgewater, MD. Interment will follow at Hillcrest Memorial Cemetery in Annapolis, MD. Condolences may be made by using the tab on this page.

Brian G. Smith of Oxon Hill, Maryland passed away in his home on Saturday, July 24, 2021. Brian was born on March 9, 1943, in New Britain, Connecticut to the late Thomas C. Smith Sr. and Margaret O’Sage. He was a trombone player in his high school marching band, and went on to receive his master’s degree in professional meteorology from Saint Louis University in 1972. He spent nearly five decades in the field of meteorology and was one of the founding members of the National Weather Association. He was a cyclist, a Eucharistic minister, an avid fan of the Washington Capitals, and a very active member of the Knights of Columbus. He was predeceased by his sisters, Margaret Peterson, Elizabeth Smith, and Louise Plucas, his brothers, Frank Smith, Thomas C. Smith Jr., and Phil Smith, and his three beloved Pomeranians. He is survived by his sister Virginia Maxwell and his many nieces and nephews. A memorial mass will be held on Friday, August 6, 2021 at Saint Columba Church at 10 am. 

Sean Michael Watson, 31, of Fort Washington, MD peacefully passed away on Saturday, July 24, 2021. He is survived by his mother, Rosalyn Michelle Watson and his son, Shane Michael Watson. Funeral services will be held at Kalas Funeral Home in Oxon Hill, MD on Friday, July 30, 2021. Visitation will commence at 10:00 a.m. immediately followed by the funeral service at 11:00 am. Interment private.

Obituaries

Deborah Harris

Clavelina Sarmiento

Thomas Myers

Robert Wilson

Penny Cantin

David Lyons

Irene Dove

Mark Crane

Judith Murphy

Richard Costello

Gloria Bochniewicz (Godo)

Robert Peters

Sherry Stover

Gladys Searcy

William Lenck

Beatriz Tolentino

Susan Ellingsworth

Barbara Lerch

Zito Alba

Leon Washington

Doris Cook

Douglas Mitchell

Brian Smith

Sean Watson