2
• Upper Bucks Free Press • April 2022
What’s Going On in Upper Bucks? April 2 Doggie Easter Egg Hunt @ LCR, 12:30pm and 2pm at 9 Beck Rd, Quakertown. Dogs & kids welcome. Pony rides 1pm-2pm ($5), Karate demo 2pm. Lots of demos & games. FMI: lastchanceranch.org Quakertown Band’s 145th Anniversary Concert, “Everything Old is New Again” music from around the globe. Conductor Joe Santanello. 7pm in Performing Arts Ctr/ Auditorium at Quakertown HS, 600 Park Ave. Free admission. 8th Annual Sporting Clay Shoot & Fundraiser (Silvene Bracalente Memororial Fdn) Register now at form.jotform.com/220265744823153 Soup & Bake Sale 9am-1pm at Christ Lutheran, 3230 Rte 212, Springtown. Spring Art Show reception 4pm-8pm (followed by month of artists’ talks & demos) at Main Street Gallery, 1236 W Broad St, Quakertown. FMI: 484-442-4112. Craft Vendor Show 10am-2pm (rain/shine) at Upper Saucon Social Quarters, 4900 Lanark Rd, Center Valley. Open House at Moondog Yoga in Quakertown, 11am-2pm. Trial classes, information, snacks & more. FMI: moondogyoga.com
April 2 & 3 Spring Craft Show 11am-4pm in QMart parking lot across from Garden Ctr. 201 Station Rd, Quakertown. 90+ Vendors. Handmade items & Artwork.
April 2 thru 16 Photos w/Easter Bunny in Rm 201 at QMart, 201 Station Rd, Quakertown. (Sat. 11am-7pm) (Sun 11am-5pm) $4/ea or $10/for 3.
April 3 Sunday Breakfast 8am-12noon at Springtown Fire Co, 3010 Rte 212, Springtown. $9/adults, $5/ages 5-8, free age 4 & under. Designer Bag Bingo 1pm (doors open 12noon, food available) at Benner Hall, 1260 E Cherry Rd, Quakertown. Tkts: $25/adv, $30/door. FMI: QCHS1979@gmail.com or 610-428-3349 for tickets. Designer Purse Bingo 1pm (opens 11:30am), Dublin Fire House Auditorium, 194 N Main St. Bring own snacks/non-alcoholic drinks. $30/tkts, advance tkts call 908-892-5620. St. Isidore Open House 12noon-2pm (also April 7 at 5:30pm-7:30pm) for Pre-School age 3 thru grade 8 programs. RSVP: admissions@ stisidoreschool.com or 215-536-6052 “Everything But Classical” free concert 4pm by Ensemble Impromptu for FISH Food Pantry. Free will offering or food donations accepted. Trinity Lutheran, 19 S Fifth St, Perkasie.
April 4 Free Monday meals at Morning Star Fellowship (every Mon. 5:15pm-6:30pm), 429 S 9th St, Quakertown.
April 4, 11, 18
Family Education Program on Addiction first three Mon. of month 7pm at Presbyterian Church of Deep Run, 16 Irish Meetinghouse Rd, Perkasie. FMI: 215-527-3077. Register: 800-221-6333
April 17
Easter
FREE Easter Dinner (drive-thru) 12noon, take-out only at St. Michael’s Lutheran, 25 E Church St, Sellersville. Deliveries possible to shut-ins. RSVP: 215-651-3949
April 18
Easter Egg Hunt 7pm for age 4 to Grade 5. Dinner at 6pm. Salem Mennonite, 41 E Cherry Rd, Quakertown. FMI: 215-536-1223.
Free Community Dinner (3rd Monday each month) Pick-up is 5:30pm at Presbyterian Church of Deep Run, 16 Irish Meetinghouse Road, Perkasie.
April 9
April 19
April 6
Easter Egg Hunt 1pm at QMart, 201 Station Rd, Quakertown. 10,000 filled eggs, Participation Gifts (while supply lasts), Large Grand Prizes. Ages 0-3, 4-6 & 7-9. Rain date is April 10. Quakertown Easter Egg Hunt w/Easter Bunny at the Soccer Fields, 221 California Rd. (Special Needs at 10am) (0-3 yrs at 10:20am) (4-6 yrs 10:30am) (7+ yrs 10:40am) Eggs filled w/candy, stickers, toys & more. Drive-thru Easter Parade, 1pm-3pm (rain or shine) at Grace United Methodist, 295 S Main St, Telford. Collect goodies for your Easter Basket. Enter from Hamilton St, Exit on Reliance Rd Tails & Ties Rescue Gala, 5pm-10pm at Homewood Suites, 3350 Center Valley Parkway, Center Valley. Admission incl. live music, dinner, drinks, live auction. Fundraiser for Last Chance Ranch Rescue. FMI: pets@lastchanceranch.org Quakertown Bridal Stroll 4pm-7pm. Free walking bridal show features 30+ local shops/ services at The Gathering Place, 351 W Broad St. FMI: quakertownbridalstroll@gmail.com Beaver Creek Quarry Canyon Exploration 9am in Ottsville. Hosted by Nockamixon Park & Recreation. FMI: call Ben 610-847-5853.
April 13
Master Gardeners Open House 4pm-7pm at Middletown Grange Fairgrounds, 576 Penns Park Rd, Wrightstown PA. Kids’ fun, prizes, demos, food trucks, 4-H presentation, more. FMI: BucksExt@psu.edu or 267-483-2020 Woman’s Club of Indian Valley will meet 1pm (masks required) at Telford Community Bldg, 125 W Hamilton St, Telford. FMI: WomansClubofIV.com or 862-251-3076. We welcome new prospective members to visit.
April 15
Riegelsville Egg Hunt (rain/shine) at Riegelsville Boro Park at 1pm, 1:05pm, 1:10pm for different age groups. Masks required. FMI: 610-749-2357.
April 16
Sellersville Boro’s Easter Egg Hunt w/Easter Bunny 1pm at Druckenmiller Playground, Maple Ave, Sellersville. Ages (0-2) (3-4) (5-7) (8-10). Using unrefrigerated real eggs. If rainy, Easter Bunny will give eggs from the Public Works Bldg. 3rd Saturday Indoor Craft Show 9am-4pm, Event Rm 201. Local crafters w/handmade items. QMart, 201 Station Rd, Quakertown.
LEAP program (3 panelists discuss empowering women in business & community), 2pm-4pm at The Gathering Place in Quakertown. $20 includes light refreshments. FMI/RSVP at ubcc.org/events
April 21
Free Community Dinner (3rd Thurs. every month) 5:30pm (doors open 5pm) at First UCC, 4th St & Park Ave, Quakertown. All welcome, no need for reservations. FMI: 215-536-4447
April 22
Earth Day
Early Bird (6pm-9pm) ($10 donation) Riegelsville Library Used Book Sale, 615 Easton Rd, Riegelsville. Regular book sale Apr 23 & 24, 9am-4pm. FMI: 610-749-2357. Basket of Cheer Bingo (open 6pm, games 7pm) Quakertown Fire Co, 505 W Broad St. Bring non-perishable food item & be entered in raffle for each item brought. Food for purchase, BYOB, must be 21+. Tkts: $25/ adv, $30/door. Tkts/info: Crista 267-374-8246 Upper Bucks Lions Kidney Foundation “Annual Clay Shoot” 8am. FMI: Jason 267-767-9777.
April 22 to 30
Used Book Sale at Upper Perkiomen Valley Library, 350 Main St, Red Hill. (Mon-Thurs 9am-7pm) (Fri 10am-5pm) (Sat 10am-2pm). April 29 & 30 is a ‘2 Day Bag Sale.’ Masks recommended but not required. FMI: 215-679-2020
April 23
QMPO Spaghetti Dinner has been rescheduled from March. 4pm-8pm at Quaketown High School on Park Ave. Features musicians from Strayer & HS. Also Indoor Drumline & Indoor Color Guard. Tkts available at the door. ‘Titanic’ 7-Course 1st Class Dinner, 5pm9pm at McCoole’s Arts/Events Place, 10 S Main St, Quakertown. Live string quartet, artifacts, free photo & Titanic expert Craig Sopin. $100/meal w/champagne. Order tkts ASAP. Period dress encouraged. FMI: QuakertownHistoricalSociety.org UB Sertoma presents Annual Spring Fling Dance, 6pm-10pm at Benner Hall in Richlandtown. Dinner, Beer, BYOB. Tkts: $40/ea. or $75/couple. Mike Greer Band! Tkts: ubsertoma@gmail.com or 610-653-0626 Food Truck Event 6pm-9pm as part of Centennial Celebration in St. Isidore’s parking lot, 603 W Broad St, Quakertown. Lots of food, drinks, entertainment & more. FMI: 215-536-6052.
Sellersville Spring Clean Up Day, 9am12noon. Meet at American Legion, 75 N Main St. Register: Sellersvilleboro.org or call 215257-5075 (to insure enough food/supplies are provided). Hot dogs served after the clean-up. WWWA Wrestling, Bell Time 6:30pm in Rm 201, QMart, 201 Station Rd, Quakertown.
April 24 Quarter/Paddle Raffle (Qtown Women’s Club) 1pm (opens noon). $10 tkt incl. 1 paddle (add’l paddles $1 ea.) at Benner Hall, 1260 Cherry St, Richlandtown. Food/drinks/snacks for sale. Tickets: bpwquakertown@gmail.com
April 30 “Paint the Fairy Doors” 10am at Sellersville Train Station ($10). Register: sellersvilleboro. org or 215-257-5075.THEN on May 14 “Find the Fairy Doors” 1pm at Lenape Park Scout Cabin. Find all the doors & win a prize. Rain or Shine. Springfield Twp Hist. Soc. Open House 9:30am-12noon at the Church School, 2165 Rte 212 (GPS Coopersburg) across from Trinity Lutheran. View artifacts, photos, etc. Members avail. for questions. Free, all invited. FMI: 484-308-1510. 14th Annual Spring Auction, 9am at Tree/Shrub Nursery, 2500 Township Rd, Quakertown. FMI: 484-357-4027.
May 2, 9, 16 Family Education Program on Addiction first three Mon. of month 7pm at Presbyterian Church of Deep Run, 16 Irish Meetinghouse Rd, Perkasie. FMI: 215-527-3077. Register: 800-221-6333
May 6 Quakertown Rotary Designer Bag Bingo, (opens 6pm, games 7pm) at West End Fire Co, 1319 Park Ave. Tkts: $30/adv, $35/door. BYOB/food/snacks. FMI/Tkts: Quakertown. rc@gmail.com or 267-375-9088.
May 7 Spring Craft Fair, 10am-4pm at Quakertown Farmers Mkt, 201 Station Rd. FMI: k4kandfurmamaevents@yahoo.com
May 8
Mother’s Day
‘Mommy & Me Alice Tea Party’ 11am1pm at Quakertown Farmers Mkt, 201 Station Rd. Enjoy tea/goodies, play games & visit w/ Wonderland characters. Tickets: $12/person. Check Facebook for full details.
May 14 Quakertown HS Boys’ Lacrosse “Trivia Night” 6:30pm-10:30pm at Benner Hall, 1260 Cherry St, Richlandtown. Prizes, raffles, gift cards, more. BYOB/snacks. Tkts: $25/ea. Contact Stephanie 215-219-3418 or Wendy 267-968-1024.
May 15 16th Annual Basket Bingo (opens 11:30am, games 1pm) Tkts: $25/adv. No alcohol. Sellersville Fire Dept, 2 N Main St. Call for tickets: 215-257-4028 x305
Have something to share with your community? Send us the details! info@ubfp.org • 215-529-8915 • 582 S. West End Blvd • Quakertown, PA 18951
April 2022 • Upper Bucks Free Press •
“The first of April is the day we remember what we are the other 364 days of the year.”
- Mark Twain
3
• Upper Bucks Free Press • April 2022
Using Your Will to Provide for your Minor Children BY ROBERT E. FRAVEL, ESQ. Most of us think of a will as simply “a legal document that spells out who gets my property when I die”. And while that is true, a will can also be a tool that determines what happens to your minor children and their finances if both parents die before the children come of age. This is not a topic that is comfortable to think about, but for parents, it is necessary. Naming a Guardian A guardian is the person who will serve in the parental role in the event that you die before your children reach the age of majority. This individual will provide for your children in their daily needs (making sure they have clothes, food, shelter, get to school on time, etc.) This is not something you want to leave to the courts. The courts will do their due diligence and attempt to make a decision based on the best interests of the child, but it is impossible for a judge to understand the “in’s and out’s” of your friendships and family relationships, which would likely be the basis for whom you name as a guardian. In order to avoid this risk, use your will to put this decision in writing. Naming Someone to Handle your Child’s Inheritance Children under the age of 18 cannot manage their inheritance money. There must be someone appointed or named in the will to
do this on their behalf until they come of age. There are a number of ways to do this, the two most common are: • You can use your will to set up a testamentary trust, which will then allow you to set the terms on how and when they will receive the money (ex.” My daughter shall receive $20,000.00 when she turns 25, and the remainder when she turns 30”). In this testamentary trust you will name a trustee or trustees to handle and manage the money until the time at which the document directs the funds to be distributed. • You can name a Custodian under the PA Uniform Transfers to Minors Act. Under this approach, the Custodian cannot turn over the funds until the child turns 21, and in some circumstances, may be allowed to maintain control over the funds until the child turns 25. If you have minor children and you do not have a will, or you do not have a will that addresses who will provide for your minor children in the event of your death, make an appointment to contact an experienced estate planning attorney in your area.. Robert E. Fravel, Esq. is a Bucks County attorney located at 123 N. Main Street, Suite 101B, in Dublin, Pennsylvania. He specializes in estate planning & administration, family law, and business law. To set up a consultation, call his office at (267) 227-9138 or visit his website at www.fravel-law.com
This month’s column is titled: HOW NOT TO GET A JOB. In February on Presidents’ Day we were interviewing for a new helper. I say we because it’s my job to make sure she knows that dogs get plenty of treats in daycare. One lady was to show at 2:30pm and didn’t show up or call. The following afternoon, she called and said she forgot her kids were off that day and then had a family emergency, so she didn’t have time to call until now. (???) How about calling that morning and saying “The kids are home, can I reschedule?” The next crazy one was Wednesday at 9:30 am. At 10:10, we called her. She said she was one the other line and would call back. My human asked, “Weren’t you to be here for an interview?” She said yes and that was the end of that one. People… When you are interviewing, you need to make the employer think their business is important to you. Don’t treat it like it’s something to pass the time. Update on Me: I am maintaining my weight loss. 36.2 pounds. ~ Love Brandy
“Our spring has come at last with the soft laughter of April suns and shadow of April showers.”- Byron Caldwell Smith
Trinity Lutheran to Present Live Portrayal of the Last Supper
“Don’t judge each day by the harvest you reap but by the seeds that you plant.” - Robert Louis Stevenson
Trinity Lutheran Church at 102 N. Hellertown Ave. Quakertown will be presenting it is the twenty-first year of their live portrayal of the Last Supper. This is an important part of Holy Week at Trinity. The portrayal is done yearly on the Maundy Thursday, the Thursday before Easter. It will begin at 7:30 PM in the Church. All are welcome. The portrayal has now had over sixty different participants over the years. It is redone every year and is different every year based on the study that the thirteen participants have done over eight weeks of preparation. This extremely moving portrayal includes words from Jesus that are directly from the Bible. The rest of
the portrayal is written by the participants after they hear Jesus say, “One of you will betray me.” Over the years, Ray Fox has been the director and a participant in every performance. He says, “It has helped me to learn more about my faith and it brings this important part of any Christians’ belief to life for me. I even remember a time when, we were in our pose representing the Da Vinci painting, one young boy in the congregation asked his father if the people sitting at the table for the Last Supper were real.” The congregation would like to invite anyone who is interested to attend to see this amazing portrayal.
Think Local. Buy Local. Be Local.
Buckygrams: skunk, tiger, zebra, okapi, chipmunk, coral snake, bumble bee, baby tapir, aardwolf, striped hyena, numbat, mackerel tabby Hidden Message: “We share this planet with the animals.” Bucky Block: An eye for an eye
4
April 2022 • Upper Bucks Free Press •
Marilyn My ex-wife’s mom died. I have said many times she was the best mother-inlaw a person could have. We had been coworkers and friends for over forty years…before, during, and even after my divorce from her daughter. A wonderful woman with a beautiful inner being. NYC tough, tempered from living in Pennsylvania and seeing her children grow into good, kind, caring people. When I first met Marilyn, she was working three jobs to support her family. My then girlfriend was an at home mom-in-proxy, with the real mom hovering from afar. I’ve seen her happy, laughing, sad, scared, and angry, as she also saw me many times during all those years. Thankfully, we both have facebook, and communicated often through that. Not all is bad about social media. This passing left me with thoughts of my own parents. When my father died, I became a support to my mother, along with my brother and my sis. We divied up care responsibilities, and she did okay, as did we.
When mom died, I remember thinking that I was now alone…no one there to talk things through with, no guardian angel. No one to be with when I needed parental comfort…an odd, lonely feeling. I didn’t like it. I still don’t. I imagine others have felt the same. I never really asked for advice from my parents…we didn’t have that type of relationship. They believed in me, and supported me, in whatever life choices I made. I counted on that. I needed that. As did Marilyn. Always my biggest champion. I didn’t call her mom, but she was. I loved her, make that love her, and will miss her tremendously. Hopefully, if there is a heaven and they all made it there, these three wonderful people will find each other, have a cup of coffee, and brag about their kids. RIP Leo, Judy, Marilyn. John Schaninger is a lifelong resident of Pennsylvania and has lived in Upper Black Eddy for 12 years. Reach him at m12string@aol.com
QNB Promotes Zukowski to VP Branch Manager at Country Square Robert Zukowski was named Vice President, Branch Manager at QNB Bank’s Country Square Office in Quakertown. In his role, Robert is responsible for all aspects of branch management, including staff development, new business development and supporting community and customer relationships within the Quakertown market. Robert has been in financial services for over 30 years, previously serving as Vice President, Branch Manager at QNB’s Souderton Office. In his previous employment at BB&T, he served as Assistant Vice President, Market Leader in Souderton. He attended
Bucks County Community College and earned a bachelor’s degree from Temple University. Robert is very involved with the local community and currently serves on the Upper Bucks Chamber of Commerce Board and is a committee member of the Quakertown Alive Association. He was previously a long-time member of the Souderton/Telford Rotary Club. In addition, Robert serves on the Board for Keystone Opportunity Center, a local non-profit in Souderton. Robert grew up in Bucks County and currently lives in Montgomery Township with his wife and two children.
5
Condo vs. Single-Family Home If you’re in the market for a new home, you may be deciding whether to purchase a condo or a singlefamily property. Both are great choices, but what’s the best option for you? We’ve compiled a shortlist of common purchase goals to help you decide. Small Budget Benefits When you purchase a condo, you’re buying everything inside of the unit, not the land. For this reason (and a few others), most condos are less expensive than single-family homes. If affordability is a priority, you may prefer a condo’s lower price tag and monthly payments.
Less Elbow Room Condosgenerally have less square footage than single-family homes and are controlled by a Homeowner’s Association (HOA). This means in addition to having less space, you may have less control of what you can and can’t do inside of your unit. The flip side is that the HOA takes care of exterior maintenance. At-Home Amenities Depending on the community, a condo may offer fun amenities like pools, tennis courts, jogging trails, and/or gyms. This is a major perk for active people who want to connect with their neighbors! Sue Deily has been a Realtor for 35 years, resides in the Upper Bucks County area and enjoys serving her clients in Bucks, Lehigh, and Montgomery Counties. Contact her at suesellshouses@gmail.com or 215-872-9865.
Thoman Beatty Named UBCTS Student of the Month
Thomas Beatty, a Palisades High School senior in the Electrical Technology program, is recognized as March’s Upper Bucks County Technical School Student of the Month. Thomas is a First Honors student and employed by Indian Creek Electric. Thomas recently competed at the SkillsUSA District Competition and placed 2nd in Electrical Construction Wiring. Thomas will be inducted into the NTHS on Mar 28, 2022. Indian Creek Electric president Timothy M. Johnson wrote, “Tom has been working for Indian Creek Electric, Inc. for almost a year. He is a testament to the Upper Bucks Technical School’s goal of producing quality students. Tom is a hard worker who utilizes his mental and physical skills to produce quality electrical work every day. Overall, Tom exemplifies the ideal apprentice coming out of High School. We at Indian Creek Electric, Inc. are honored and proud to have him on our team. After graduation, Thomas plans to continue with the electrical trade.
6
• Upper Bucks Free Press • April 2022
Anna Surman, 97, of Bowling Green, KY
formerly of Coopersburg, PA died November 27, 2021 in Greenview Regional Hospital, Bowling Green, KY. She was the wife of the late Walter Surman. Born in Bethlehem, PA she was the daughter of the late Stephen, Sr. & Mary (Kroll) Novak. She enjoyed baking, cooking, gardening, and tending to her flowers. Anna was a member of Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Church in Bethlehem, PA. She is survived by a son David W., Sr. (Joy C. Ditchey); two grandchildren Samantha Surman & David W. Surman, Jr. (Tina Smith). A Mass was held on Wednesday, March 30, 2022 at 11:00 A.M. in the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Church, 4101 Old Bethlehem Pike Bethlehem, PA 18015. Arrangements are in the care of the C. R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc. (www.crstrunk. com) Quakertown.
James Michael Roberts, age 63, of Perkasie, Pennsylvania, passed away on December 30, 2021. He was the spouse of Karen Dunn Roberts. Born in Philadelphia, PA he was a son of the late Frank Roberts and the late Pearla Johnson Roberts. James served our county in the Air Force. He was great with his hands and loved to do sculpture work in his spare time. He was a gifted artist and model builder and his work is on display in numerous museums. At one point, he enjoyed working at the Butterfly Room at the Museum of Natural History in Philadelphia. Jim was a great friend to so many and loved by everyone. In addition to his wife, he is survived by his son James Roberts Jr. of Bensalem, PA, his daughter Nicole Roberts, his stepson William Dolbow III of Lake Whales, FL, his grandson Joel Roberts, and many cousins and friends. In addition to his parents he was predeceased by his son Ryan Roberts and his brother Frank Roberts. Arrangements are by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service of Quakertown (215-536-3343). Kelley Ann Jones, age 40, of Quakertown, PA, entered eternal life on January 19, 2022, at Suburban Community Hospital in Norristown, PA.
~Obituaries~
Kelley was born on December 21, 1981, to Stephen Haarstick and Carol Ducellier Haarstick in Oakland, CA, soon after her family relocated to Quakertown, PA. Kelley leaves behind her husband, Brian Jones; two children, Breanna Jones of Quakertown, PA and Brian Jones Jr. of Perkasie, PA; granddaughter, Sophia Wenhold of Quakertown, PA; mother, Carol Ducellier Haarstick of Quakertown, PA; father, Stephen Haarstick and stepmother, Karen Haarstick of Suquamish, WA; brother, Aaron Haarstick of Lansdale, PA; sister, Makenzie HaarstickLewellyn and brother-in-law, Jeffrey Lewellyn of Midwest City, OK; niece and nephews, Stephen C Lewellyn, Izabella Lewellyn, and Aaron Haarstick Jr. as well as many loving friends. Kelley is preceded in death by her grandmother, Elizabeth Pearl Ducellier of Quakertown, PA. Kelley also leaves behind her beloved fur baby (beagle/bulldog), Charlie. Kelley graduated from Lansdale School of Business in 2002 where she studied Computer Programming and Applications. Kelley’s biggest pride and joy was her children and her granddaughter. She loved them so much and naturally, bragged about her granddaughter daily. Kelley will be forever missed but never forgotten. Arrangements are by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service of Quakertown. (215-536-3343)
Dolores A. Miller, 86, of Quakertown, passed away at her residence on Tuesday, February 22, 2022. Born in 1935, she was the daughter of the late Donald and Evelyn (Rothrock). She was the widow of the late Daniel L. Miller who passed away in 2014. Dolores worked for many years at Spinlon Industries, Quakertown, PA. Dolores was a proud auxiliary member of the Quakertown American Legion, Post 242. She was an excellent cook and enjoyed cooking for her family every chance she had. Dolores is survived by her children, Richard Gross (Donna), Robert Gross (Marcella), William Gross, Linda Gross, and Jimmy Gross. 10 grandchildren, and several great and great-great grandchildren. She was predeceased by her siblings, Donald Davis, Marguerite Kunsman, Nancy Salgado, and
Geraldine Slifer. She was also predeceased by her son James Gross. Arrangements are by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service of Quakertown. (215-536-3343) In lieu of flowers, please consider a memorial contribution to Disabled American Veterans.
Elfrieda A. “Ella” Sames, of Coopersburg, Pa passed away on February 24, 2022 at the age of 100. She was the loving wife of the late Richard G. Sames. They were married 56 years. She loved and enjoyed her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Ella was an energetic person who enjoyed gardening, sewing, and cooking. She will be remembered by her daughters Karen Berbary, husband Paul, Kathleen Bortz, husband Robert, and Kim Sames, grandchildren Brian Berbary, Christopher and Stephen Bortz and Melissa (Bortz) Kristie, great grandchildren, Audrey and Megan Berbary, Cassandra and Ella Bortz, Blake Kristie, Estelle and Otis Bortz. She was predeceased by her parents John and Theresa (Zotter) Faustner and granddaughter Valerie Berbary. Ella’s life will be celebrated privately by her daughters and their families. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to charity of your choice. Arrangements are by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service of Quakertown (215-536-3343.) Bertha H. Gawlik, age 89, of Passer, PA, and previously of Quakertown, PA, passed away on February 25, 2022. She was born in Quakertown on March 19, 1932 to the late Herb and Mary (Nixon) Hallman. Bertha was a loving wife and mother, and spent over 50 years of marriage with the late Edward P. Gawlik until his passing in 2005. Bertha was an active member of Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church in Quakertown, PA where she also served as a bookkeeper and choir member for many years. She was an active member in several organizations in the Quakertown area. Bertha is survived by her sons Scott Gawlik and Thomas Gawlik, and their wives Eunice and Kristin; grandchildren Elizabeth, Carolyn, and Brian, and Max and Ethan; sister Helen Eager; nieces and nephews Carole Gawlik, Michael Schmidt, Kate Janney, Witney Lauffer, Lisa Rossi, Claudia Buszics, Mark Buszics, Robert and Kathy Gumlock, and Ronald and Joanne Gory; lifelong friends Helen Nosal and Nancy Baringer; and many other loving family and friends. She is predeceased by her parents; husband; and brother Herb Hallman. Funeral services were privately held. A larger memorial gathering will be planned for her this summer. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church, 102 N. Hellertown Ave, Quakertown, PA 18951. Arrangements are by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service of Quakertown (215-536-3343) Richard Rocco Price passed away peacefully February 27, 2022 after a sudden, terrible experience with appendiceal cancer at which he fought tirelessly to beat. He was 59. He was born in Atlantic City to Edward Drexel Price and Marie Frances (Passalaqua) Price on December 26, 1962, the youngest of three. He graduated Atlantic City HS and then enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps, stationed at Camp Lejeune. He dutily served 4 years during the Gulf War from 1982-1986. Returning to Atlantic City he worked in the casino and hotel industry in various positions from slot attendant to housekeeping manager for the Trump resorts and with the Continental Hotel. Richard left the casino industry, and worked as a food manager for Wawa, Inc., transferring to Pennsylvania with his new partner and eventual husband. He is preceded in death by his mother and father, his brother-in-law Kenneth Grattan and his much-loved pets, Zeus and Trigger. He is survived by his loving husband Martin Daynorowicz and the extended family he gained in the Daynorowicz’s who embraced and adored him; his daughter Kirsten (Said) and his sons Anthony and Alex (Jay); his sister Theresa Grattan, his brother Frank Price, his nephews Michael Grattan and Frank Price Jr; his niece Theresa Perez and his grandchildren Layani, Avery and Amelie. He is also survived by his latest feline friend, Freddy. A Life Celebration will be held at a later date. Memorial contributions can be made to any chapter of the ASPCA. Arrangements are by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service of Quakertown (215-536-3343). Vernon Harry Fox, age 97, of Quakertown, passed away on February 27, 2022, at The Village at Lifequest in Quakertown. He was the loving husband of the
late Verna May (Myers) Fox with whom they shared 77 years of marriage. Born in Richland Township, PA, he was a son of the late Harry and Katie M. (Horn) Fox. Vernon proudly served in the US Naval Armed Guard as a Gunner’s Mate Third Class during WWII. He worked as a carpenter and retired from WM Moyer & Co. in Quakertown. Vernon enjoyed woodworking and loved making things for his grandchildren and great grandchildren. Surviving are children, Patti Sigmans (Roger), James Fox (Linda), and John Fox, grandchildren Jeffrey Sigmans, Ryan Sigmans, and Julie Chittester, great grandchildren, Jacob Sigmans, Wyatt Sigmans, Braxton Chittester, and Blake Chittester and sister Eleanor Wimmer. He was predeceased by sister Virginia Small. Services will be private at the convenience of the family. Memorial contributions may be made to a charity of your choice. Arrangements are by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service of Quakertown (215-536-3343).
Vicki Lynn Lippincott, age 63, of Quakertown passed away on February 27, 2022, at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital in Philadelphia. Born in Doylestown, she was a daughter of the late Fred and Evelyn (Limbach/Lippincott) Hoth. Vicki graduated from Pennridge High School in 1977. Bucks County Community College and earned her Associate’s Degree, then moved on to attend Gwynedd Mercy University to pursue her nursing degree. She worked as a nursing assistant at Pine Run Retirement Community in Doylestown. Surviving are her children, Edward Lippincott and Christy Raynor (Fiance Brian Trimble), grandchildren, Autumn Trimble, Josh Trimble, Natalie Raynor, E.J Ruckdeschel, Loagen Ruckdeschel, and Jason Ogden, nieces and nephews, Steven and Jenny Lippincott, Kyle and Cody Young, Amanda (Jarrett) Guenst and Dustin Losey, siblings, Connie Losey (Duane) and Ronald Lippincott (Dawn) and sister-in-law Barbara Lippincott. She was predeceased by siblings Charlene Lippincott and Fred Lippincott. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in support of the liver transplant program at Thomas Jefferson University. Please donate online at Jefferson.edu/Give, or make checks payable to Jefferson, note “Memorial - Vicki Lippincott”, and mail to: Jefferson Office of Institutional Advancement, 125 S. 9th St., Suite 600, Philadelphia, PA 19107. Arrangements are by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service of Quakertown (215-536-3343). Kurt Jon Kreider, 76, of Quakertown, PA, formerly of Middlesex, NJ, and Pittstown, NJ, passed away on February 28, 2022. He was born in East Orange, NJ on May 20, 1945 to the late Martin and Mayellen Kreider. He was the loving husband of Nancy Kreider, his high school sweetheart, for 55 years. Early in his life Kurt worked for Sears in Watchung, NJ for 20 years before starting his own business, K.J. Kreider Installations in Pittstown, NJ. After moving to Coopersburg and then Quakertown, he finished his working life at Lowe’s in Quakertown. Kurt loved antique cars and owned two old Fords. He went to many car shows with them, and belonged to a car club at one time. He loved working on the older classic vehicles. Kurt was a very supportive and loving Grandpa with a big heart, he was always attending his grandchildren’s activities and sports games. Kurt is survived by his wife Nancy; children Scott (Laura-Lee) and Jeffrey (Dawn); grandchildren Danielle, Keith, Roxanne, Darrell, Julia, and Jared; brother Kent Kreider (Jill); God children Kimberly, Shaun, Ryan, and Kelly; nieces; nephews; and many other loving family and friends. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Luke’s Hospice House at 2455 Black River Rd., Bethlehem, PA 18015 or the American Cancer Society at cancer.org. Arrangements are by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service of Quakertown (215-536-3343). William “Bill” T. Flood, 88, of Quakertown, PA died February 28, 2022 at The Villages at LifeQuest, Milford Township. He was the husband of Dorothy “Dot” G (Brodbeck) Flood. They were married for 66 years last May. Born in Willow Grove, PA, he was the son of the late Edward A. & Mary (Shirley) Flood. Before retiring, he was a self-employed machinist. Prior to that he was employed at Penn Cigar Machine, Acme Wire Machine Company and the Standard Press Steel Company. Bill and Dot were also the former
April 2022 • Upper Bucks Free Press •
7
~Obituaries~
owners of the 11th Frame Bar in the former Del Ennis Bowling Lanes in Huntington Valley, PA. Dad was an exquisitely skilled machinist, mechanic, manager and business owner. He was a creative and persistent problem-solver who saw opportunity in every challenge. One of his greatest personal achievements, at the tender age of 60, was learning to fly Soaring Airplanes. He loved the challenge and reveled in accomplishing the skill that took him soaring into the beauty and quiet of the thermals. He also took up wood carving and stained glass. His artwork is beauty hanging in many of our homes. He was a man defined as much by his kind and gentle nature as his perseverance and personal brilliance. Bill was introduced to Dot through one of her best friends, Dolores (soonto-be Flood, also). They dated nearly 3 years before marrying in 1955. Bill and Dot, whatever they did, they did together. Their 66-year marriage was cemented in a depth of love and commitment to each other that was truly beautiful and inspirational. They were a “team.” That team spirit defined every aspect of their lives. They were true companions of the road, through all the heartaches and joys, always together. They were dedicated and loving parents. They lead us on countless adventures on the outboard and the Steel Craft cruising the Delaware River and Chesapeake Bay and camping trips up and down the East coast. They were also world travelers from cruises to countless road trips. After retiring, they travelled the country in their 5th wheel, always sharing tales of their adventures with family and friends. In 2006 they settled into their new home in The Villages, FL and delighted in all the fun, games and amenities of their “Paradise” for 15 years. All the family shares great memories of Florida vacations with Gigi and Pop-Pop filled with swimming, golf, dancing in the Square and playing all manner of games with them from shuffleboard and billiards to Bunko and 3-13. And of course, driving golf carts all over the Villages. Their entire lives have revolved around their family and friends. They often spoke of their mutual desire to not spend their lives without the other. It is only right and fitting that they have died within three days of each other. We celebrate their long lives as well as acknowledge the hole left in all our hearts. Dad, Pop-Pop, brother, friend, may you now be soaring with the angels and smiling down gently on all of us. Bill is survived by a daughter Patricia A Flood (Lori) of Port Angeles, WA; son James R. Flood, Sr. (Janet) of Quakertown; a brother John F. Flood of New Port Richey, FL; a granddaughter Jillian R. Vanelli (Christopher) of Quakertown; grandson James R. Flood, Jr. of Hershey, PA; and great grandson Rowan J. Vanelli of Quakertown as well as numerous nieces and nephews. Bill was preceded in death by his parents Edward A. Flood and Mary (Shirley) Flood; sons William T. Flood, Jr. and Michael E. Flood and brother Edward A. Flood, Jr. A Memorial Mass for both Bill and Dot will be held at 11:00 A.M. on Saturday April 23, 2022 in Mary Mother of the Redeemer Catholic Church 1325 Upper State Rd. North Wales, PA 19454. Call from 10:00-11:00 A.M. in the church. The mass will be live-streamed at mmredeemer.org/mass-streaming. Please log on at time of service. Recording will also be available at same address. Arrangements are in the care of the C.R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc., Quakertown (www.crstrunk.com). In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to “ProLIFE Across America.” www.prolifeacrossamerica.org
Lloyd Dennis Kilpatrick, 81, of Kintnersville, passed away Wednesday March 2, 2022, at his residence. Born in 1940, he was the son of the late Lloyd and Dorothy (Sterner) Kilpatrick. He was the husband of Virginia (Rodriguez) Kilpatrick, with whom he shared 26 years of marriage. Denny worked for many years for Glasgow Construction, where he worked on the construction of the Nockamixon Dam. He also worked for many years as a truck driver for Doylestown Lumber. In his spare time, he loved hunting, fishing, and watching old cowboy movies. He also loved watching sports, in particular the Philadelphia Eagles. He grew up loving to play baseball but transitioned to slow pitch softball as he got older. In addition to his wife Virginia, Denny is survived by children, Daniel Kilpatrick, Kenneth Kilpatrick, and LeAnn, stepchildren, Bradford Yoder, Jenelle Yoder and Stephanie Lombo, siblings, Robert Kilpatrick, Ronald Kilpatrick, and Barbara Rice. 15 grandchildren, 3 great-grandchildren. He was predeceased by daughter, Dolly Grace and a brother Richard Kilpatrick.
Services will be held at a future date at the family’s convenience. Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service is handling his arrangements.
Douglas Ray Welch, Sr., age 71, of Quakertown, passed away on March 2, 2022, at his residence. Born in Philadelphia, he was a son of the late Jesse and Dorothy Mae (Hilton) Welch. He graduated from Olney High School in 1968. Retired from his final job with Home Depot in 2018. Douglas loved going to the beach and listening to music of all kinds. He enjoyed bowling in leagues in Willow Grove. His early years were absorbed by his activities with the Boy Scouts of America. His ultimate passion was his family. Parties and picnics were the thing he loved planning, just to have everyone together. Surviving are his children, Douglas R. Welch, Jr. (Dora) and Becky Welch (Nicole), grandchildren, Zachary, Justin (Cassondra), Damien, Samantha, Liam, and Maverick, great grandchildren, Scarlett and Evelyn and siblings David (Kathy), Donald, Linda, Laurie (Karen), Donna (Mike), Wendy (Gordon), Pam (Dave) and countless nieces and nephews. Final respects can be paid on March 11, 2022, from 5:00-7:00 PM at the Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, 135 W. Pumping Station Road, Quakertown, PA 18951. Memorial contributions may be made in his memory to Support Kidney Patients - American Kidney Fund: kidneyfund.org or Boy Scouts of America: donations.scouting.org Arrangements are by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service of Quakertown (215-536-3343). Dorothy “Dot” G. Flood, 87, of Quakertown, PA passed peacefully on March 3, 2022 at the Villages at LifeQuest, Milford Township. Dot was born in Philadelphia, PA to Robert V. Brodbeck and Frances (Cubbage) Brodbeck. She was the devoted and loving wife of William (Bill) T. Flood for 66 years. She was a lifelong explorer and student with an insatiable drive to learn new things and bring a good idea to fruition. You could say that she was indomitable! Her astute curiosity and drive made her a woman ahead of her time. When her children were still in grade school, she went to Cosmetology school and became a hairdresser. She briefly worked outside the home before realizing that Dad could build her a small space in the house. Her first venture into self-employment was born. She then went on to run the 11th frame with Bill for 17 years while also raising a family. She learned to cook and sew from NaNa Flood and then spent decades entertaining family and friends at picnics and dinners hosted by “The Hostess with the Mostess”. Dot learned pottery and ceramics and painting, had a brief stint as a Haberdasher and was forever engaged in a new craft. Mom didn’t know the meaning of the “quit”, and her life was defined by the meaning of hard work and dedication to family. Her relationships with her brothers and sisters, grandchildren, many friends and everyone she met enriched all our lives. That love is an enduring legacy. After graduating Secretarial School at 18, Dot went to work at TastyKake in Philadelphia. Not long after, best friend Dolores introduced her to Bill. They dated nearly 3 years before marrying in 1955. Bill and Dot, whatever they did, they did together. Their 66-year marriage was cemented in a depth of love and commitment to each other that was truly beautiful and inspirational. They were a “team.” That team spirit defined every aspect of their lives. They were true companions of the road, through all the heartaches and joys, always together. They were dedicated and loving parents. They lead us on countless adventures on the outboard and the Steel Craft cruising the Delaware River and Chesapeake Bay and camping trips up and down the East coast. They were also world travelers from cruises to countless road trips. After retiring, they travelled the country in their 5th wheel, always sharing tales of their adventures with family and friends. In 2006 they settled into their new home in The Villages, FL and delighted in all the fun, games and amenities of their “Paradise” for 15 years. All the family shares great memories of Florida vacations with Gigi and Pop-Pop filled with swimming, golf, dancing in the Square and playing all manner of games with them from shuffleboard and billiards to Bunko and 3-13. And of course, driving golf carts all over the Villages. Their entire lives have revolved around their family and friends. They often spoke of their mutual desire to not spend their lives without the other. It is only right and fitting that they have died within three days of each other. We celebrate their long lives as well as acknowledge the hole left in all our hearts. Mom, Gigi, sister, friend, we love you more
than crayons can color! Dot is survived by a daughter Patricia A Flood (Lori) of Port Angeles, WA; son James R. Flood, Sr. (Janet) of Quakertown; sisters Dolores (Mack) Tipton of Warminster, PA; Madge (Craig) Eiser of RedHill, PA and Rosie Barnes of Tampa, FL.; granddaughter Jillian R. Vanelli (Christopher) of Quakertown; grandson James R. Flood, Jr. of Hershey, PA; and great grandson Rowan J. Vanelli of Quakertown as well as numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by parents Robert V. Brodbeck and Frances (Cubbage) Brodbeck; sons William T. Flood, Jr. and Michael E. Flood; sisters Eleanor (Joe) Staehly; Betty (Perry) Smith; Larue (Paul) Georgeff; brothers Robert (Jeanette) Brodbeck and James Brodbeck. A Memorial Mass for both Bill and Dot will be held at 11:00 A. M. on Saturday, April 23, 2022 in Mary Mother of the Redeemer Catholic Church, 1325 Upper State Rd. North Wales, PA 19454. Call from 10:00-11:00 A.M.in the church. The mass will be livestreamed at mmredeemer.org/mass-streaming. Please log on at time of service. Recording will also be available at same address afterward. Arrangements are in the care of the C.R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc., Quakertown (www.crstrunk.com). In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to “ProLIFE Across America” www.prolifeacrossamerica.org.
Ruth M. Dieterly, 93, of Quakertown died March 4, 2022, in LifeQuest Nursing Center, Quakertown. She was the wife of the late Kenneth W. Dieterly. Born in Coopersburg she was the daughter of the late William H. & Evelyn B. (Thomas) Kramer. Until 2016 she and her late husband were co-owners of Milford Furniture, Quakertown. She enjoyed gardening and collecting antiques. Ruth attended Trinity Great Swamp U.C.C. in Spinnerstown and formerly attended the First Church of the Brethren in Quakertown. She was very family oriented. She is survived by three daughters Deborah L. Pietruszka (James), Terre L. Balliet (William) both of Quakertown, and Pamela A. Zitta of Springtown. Two grandsons, Scott Klausfelder (Lisa) and Bradd Klausfelder (Becky). Seven great grandchildren, Chelsea, Courtney,
Natasha, Brittney, Joshua, Madison, and Hans. Three great great grandchildren, Harper, Wyatt, and Maisie. Memorial Services were held on Thursday March 10, 2022 in Trinity Great Swamp U.C.C. in Spinnerstown PA. Arrangements in the care of the C. R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc. (www.crstrunk.com) Quakertown. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions can be made to Heifer International Project 1 World Ave. Little Rock, AR 72202 or to Trinity Great Swamp U.C.C. P.O. Box 494 Spinnerstown, PA 18968.
Lena H. Hrabina, 96, of Quakertown died March 4, 2022, in Manor Care, Bethlehem. She was the wife of the late Rudolph S. Hrabina. Born in Coopersburg she was the daughter of the late Sylvester J. Herman and Carrie M. (Barthol) Herman Hoch and the stepdaughter of the late Russell V. Hoch. Lena enjoyed the outdoors and gardening. She is survived by her children Donald Hrabina (Marion), Jerrald R. Hrabina, Kristine L. Hrabina and Thomas R. Hrabina. Three grandchildren Jennifer Miceli, Stephanie Vilnit and Andrew Hrabina. Eight great grandchildren. In addition to her parents and stepfather she was predeceased by a son Allen R. Hrabina, and brothers John S. Herman, Robert W. Herman, and Charles H. Herman. A memorial service was held on Friday March 11, 2022 at 11:00 a.m. in the C. R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc. (www.crstrunk. com) 821 W. Broad St. Quakertown PA 18951. Clarence Ervin Batman, 95, of Sellersville died March 5, 2022 in his home. Born in Argus, PA he was the son of the late Charles & Elsie (Stull) Batman. He was a bar tacker for the former Royal Pants Factory in Perkasie before retiring. He enjoyed going to auctions, and outdoor festivities especially the ones that were playing polka music. Clarence is survived by his nephew Kenneth Fox (Kathleen), two great nieces Donna Gunther (Robert), Brenda Berkelback, and a great nephew Kenneth Fox (Jamie). He was predeceased by a sister Edna L. Dulin and a nephew Clarence Fox and (his late wife Phyllis). Arrangements in the care of the C. R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc. (www.crstrunk.com)
8
• Upper Bucks Free Press • April 2022
Michael Alan Roeder, 43, of Center Valley died March 7, 2022 in Lehigh Valley Hospital-Muhlenberg. He was the husband of Gloria A. (Helfrich) Roeder. They were married 5 years last July. Born in Sellersville, PA he was the son of Barry L. & Susan G. (Long) Roeder. He was last employed as a Custodian at LCCC. He was a 1997 graduate of Southern Lehigh High School where he played the trumpet in the band. Michael was a former member of the Coopersburg Fire Police. He was an Eagles fan and enjoyed NASCAR and was a Dale Earnhardt, Sr. & Jeff Gordon fan, he also enjoyed detailing cars. He was a member of Chestnut Hill U.C.C. In addition to his wife and parents he is survived by a brother Brian Roeder (Trina), maternal grandfather Clair Long, paternal grandmother Betty Roeder, niece Lacey and nephew Brent. He is also survived by his dog, Pearl. Predeceased by maternal grandmother Carolyn Long and paternal grandfather Horace Roeder. Services will be private and at the convenience of the family. Arrangements are in the care of C. R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc. (www.crstrunk.com) Quakertown. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions can be made to Animals in Distress P.O. Box 609 Coopersburg, PA 18036. Catherine G. Landis, 87, of Quakertown, PA, went to be with the Lord on March 8, 2022. She was born in Quakertown on Nov. 17, 1934 to the late Henry and Mabel (Rupe) Texter. Catherine was the loving wife of Albert Landis for 65 years until his passing in 2019. She was active in Bible Baptist Church in Quakertown and Bethel Baptist Church in Sellersville where she was a Sunday School teacher. She was a caring nurse at Quakertown Hospital for 39 years and was a naturally loving person. Catherine is survived by her children Susan Carter (Pierre), Michael Landis (Paulette), David Landis (Shari), and Jean Park; 16 grandchildren; 26 great grandchildren; and many other loving family and friends. She is predeceased by her parents; husband; and 4 siblings. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Bible Baptist Church, P.O. Box 152, Quakertown, PA 18951. Arrangements are by Naugle Funeral and cremation service of Quakertown (215-536-3343) William T. Kollo, 61, passed away at his LifePath Group Home in Sellersville surrounded by his sisters and Life Path family on March 9, 2022. He was born in Quakertown on November 22, 1960 to the late Robert W. and Joan Kollo. He lived in Quakertown for over 50 years and had a variety of jobs he enjoyed during that time. Of particular note was his time in the BARC Developmental Services Workshop where he did a variety of industrial production jobs. Bill loved music, word searches, sending Christmas cards, receiving cards, telephoning family and friends and numerous other hobbies. Bill is survived by his sisters Debra Schultz and Lynn Blough (Jeffrey); nephews Brad and Jeffrey; niece Jenna; great nieces, Emma and Avery and great nephews, Colin and Rowan and many other loving family and friends. He is predeceased by his parents and brother-inlaw Robert Schultz. All are invited to a celebration of Bill’s life on Saturday, April 2 at Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, 135 W. Pumping Station Rd., Quakertown, PA 18951, visitation is from 10am-12pm and the Life Celebration begins at 12pm. Interment will be private. In lieu of flowers donations can be made in Bill’s memory to LifePath at LifePath.org. Debra Dolan (Bright) of Quakertown, 69 passed away suddenly March 9, 2022. She was the wife of Daniel Dolan and the daughter of the late Alan Rex Bright and Alverda (Heist) Bright. She is survived by her son Alan Hoffa and daughter Audrea Hoffa and sister Wendy Dreibelbis. She and her sister were partners of “Bright Ideas Outgrown Shoppe” in Robesonia PA. Many of her hobbies were gardening, painting, singing, playing guitar, attending Phillies ball games, canning and preserving vegetables from her own garden. There will be a Celebration of Her Life at a later date. Arrangements are in the care of the C. R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc. (www.crstrunk.com) Quakertown. Harold C. Hieter, known to many as Pop-Pop, age 91, passed away on March 10, 2022, at Phoebe Richland Health Care Center in Richlandtown, PA. He was the only child born on November 26, 1930 in Spinnerstown, PA, to the late D. Frank and Helen H. (Miller)
~Obituaries~
Hieter, and the loving husband of the late Doris N. (Smith) Hieter. Doris and Harold began their life together on a snowy Saturday evening, March 10, 1951, in St John’s Lutheran Church. Harold was a graduate of Quakertown Community High School, class of 1948. He enlisted in the ROTC while attending Muhlenburg College for a year, then transferring to Drexel University. His college plans were put on hold as he enlisted in the United States Army during the Korean War. Harold returned with his family to Spinnerstown, on the same property where he was born and raised to literally build his own home purchased from Sears. His residence was built on Hieter Road, which was renamed for Harold’s father’s farm. While working full-time for W.R. Grace, he completed his Bachelor of Science degree at Drexel University in 1965 and became a chemist. He retired in 1995, after working 40 years at W.R. Grace. A true enrichment in Harold’s life was the birth of his only grandchild, Megan Marie. The role of “P-flop” was born. Over his lifetime, Harold has always been very active in his local community and church. He was a 25-year member of the Milford Township Planning Commission. As a member of St. Mark’s Lutheran Church in Pennsburg, he served as church council president for many years along with being their adult bible class Sunday School teacher. His last community involvement was as the treasurer on the board of Life Long Learning. Harold is survived by: daughter Susan (Hieter) Gross, grand-dog Luna; son David Hieter, granddaughter Megan (Gross) Sauter, husband Andy, and great-grand-dog Jacqi. In addition to his parents, he is preceded in passing by wife, Doris N. (Smith) Hieter, and son-in-law James Gross. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Harold’s honor to: St Mark’s Evangelical Lutheran Church, 81 Main St. Pennsburg, PA 18073 Arrangements are by Naugle Funeral and cremation service of Quakertown (215-536-3343)
John Vincent Vosburgh, age 76, of
Quakertown passed away on March 11, 2022 at Doylestown Hospital. He was the loving husband of the late Diane Marie (Huth) Vosburgh with whom he shared 53 years of marriage. Born in Amherst, Massachusetts, he was a son of the late John Edward and Sarah (Bigelow) Vosburgh. He is survived by his son, John Vincent Vosburgh, Jr. (Danielle), daughter, Michelle Vosburgh Cwikla (John), grandchildren, Tylor Vosburgh (Amanda), Logan Cwikla Robison (Steven), Cole Cwikla and a great grandchild on the way. Twin brother Jeffrey Vosburgh (Sarah), brothers Peter Vosburgh and Gregory Vosburgh and sister Judith (Vosburgh) Bense. John graduated from Neshaminy High School in 1963 where he was a 3-year varsity letterman in Baseball, Basketball and Football. In his professional life, he was owner and operator of numerous construction companies. After retiring from his companies he continued as a sole proprietor in building and as a master carpenter. Johns hobbies included an avid model plane flyer, building model train platforms for his grandchildren, golf, sailing his Hobie Cat and car racing. He raced in the SCCA and IMSA. A memorial luncheon will be held on April 14. If interested in attending, please contact his daughter Michelle at 215-378-4101. Arrangements are by Naugle Funeral and cremation service of Quakertown (215-536-3343)
Ronald E. Bresel, 75 of Quakertown died Friday March 11, 2022, at the Lutheran Community at Telford. He was the husband of Joann (Nase) Bresel. They celebrated their 49th wedding anniversary last October. Born in Sellersville he was the son of Dorothy (Snyder) Bresel and the late Emil Bresel. He was an estate planner for the United Integrity Group in Quakertown before his retirement in 2019. Ron was a man of service. Serving in the US Army during the Vietnam War earning the NDSM and GC medals. He also was an expert marksman. From 1967 to 1969 he worked in the Pentagon Department of Defense Intelligence Agency. He was an active resident of Trumbauersville serving as a former mayor, former member of the fire company and member of the Trumbauersville Lions Club where he served as past president and chair of the Thomas G. Wynkoop/James S. Schacht Memorial Golf Outing. He also was a former member of the Willow Grove Kiwanis Club. Ron also was an active member of Christ Church of the U.C.C. in Trumbauersville where he was a
former consistory member and served on the stewardship and budget committee’s and the committee for the revitalization of the church. He also served on the Christ Union Cemetery Board. He enjoyed watching all sports especially NASCAR and all his children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren activities. Most importantly he was the go-to planner for all family-oriented events, especially cookouts. As stated by his family he was a “Bigger Than Life Kind of Guy”. In addition to his wife and mother, he is survived by a daughter Adrienne “Cookie” Bedford. Grandchildren Alicia, Jessica and Sara Bedford, great grandchildren Zabian Bedford, Alivia and Kayden Ogden. A niece Jennifer Egbert and two nephews, Kenneth Holiday and Greg Wynkoop. He was predeceased by a sister Judy Holiday and a nephew Brian Wynkoop. Memorial contributions can be made to Christ Church of the U.C.C. 101 N. Main St. PO Box 516 Trumbauersville PA 18970. Arrangements are in the care of the C. R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc. (www.crstrunk.com) Quakertown.
James J. Toth, 91, of Coopersburg died March 13, 2022 in his home. He was the husband of the late Eleanor T. (Durning) Toth. Born in Allentown, PA he was the son of the late James & Theresa (Kolmar) Toth. He retired in 2000 from Ingersoll Rand in Phillipsburg, NJ. James was a member of St. Isidore Catholic Church in Quakertown where he served as a church lector and was a member of St. Isidore Knights of Columbus Council #4649. He was a U.S. Army Veteran serving during the Korean War. He is survived by two daughters Tina Fetter (Dale), & Ellie Skehan, two grandchildren Jay & Steph, and his companion Judy Craner. He was predeceased by a brother Steve, and a grandchild Jennifer. A Memorial Mass was held on Monday, March 21, 2022 at 10:30 A.M. at St. Isidore Catholic Church 2545 W. Pumping Station Rd. Quakertown, PA 18951. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions can be made to St. Isidore Knight of Columbus Council #4649 or to the Father Riegler Center. Either contributions can be mailed to 603 W. Broad St. Quakertown, PA 18951. Robert DeFuccio, of Spinnerstown, Pa., much loved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, died March 13th. He was 85. Bob was born in Brooklyn, N.Y. on April 12th, 1936 to Joseph and Rose (Prezioso) DeFuccio. He grew up in Brooklyn alongside his sister, Alice, and brothers, John and Richard. He attended high school in Baldwin, N.Y. and graduated from SUNY Oswego, where he met his wife, Sally, acting in college theater. They were married for 62 years. Bob established his own firm and designed furniture for clients such as Thonet, Gunlocke, and Knoll. He also taught woodworking and design at the Philadelphia College of Art, the Anderson Ranch Arts Center, and the Center for Furniture Craftsmanship. He is survived by his wife Sally (Fors) DeFuccio; three daughters and sons-inlaw Elise and husband Michael DiCorato (Wilton, Conn.), Simonee and husband Gerard Marhefka (Allentown, Pa.), and Kate and partner Brian Robb (Ypsilanti, Mich.); seven grandchildren Alina, Owen, Celia, and Emma Marhefka (Allentown, Pa.), and Allessandra, Adrian, and Nicholas DiCorato (Wilton, Conn.); as well as niece Maryann Rufrano (Saddlebrook, N.J.) and nephew Richard DeFuccio (Hampton, N.J.). No memorial service is immediately planned. In lieu of flowers, donations be sent to Doctors Without Borders. Arrangements are by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service of Quakertown (215-536-3343). Viola E. Berger, 90, of Quakertown, passed away Sunday, March 13, 2022, at Phoebe Richland Community. Born in 1931, she was the daughter of the late Herman and Theresa (Salfia) Schlemmer. She was the wife of the late John J. Berger, with whom she shared 50 years of marriage until his passing in 2001. Viola was a member at Zion Lutheran Evangelical Lutheran Church. She also took great pride in caring for her family, and particularly loved cooking and baking for them. She is survived by her children, Timothy J Berger (Leanna), Bruce J. Berger (Donna) and Brenda Smoot (Todd), sister, Helen Koch, 13 grandchildren, 8 great-grandchildren. She was predeceased by her son, Michael Berger, and her brother Herman Schlemmer. Arrangements are by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service of Quakertown (215-536-3343).
Dolores J. Raub, 90, of Sellersville, PA went to be with the Lord on March 14, 2022. She was born in Coplay, PA on September 12, 1931 to the late Harvey and Hilda (Henry) Kern. She was the loving wife of Donald W. Raub for over 70 years and they shared 54 years of service together at the East Rockhill Chapel. Dolores is survived by her husband Donald; children Diane Trumbore (Jerry) and Devlyn Shive (Gregory); 15 grandchildren; 17 great grandchildren; and many other loving family and friends. She is predeceased by her parents; children Donald Raub Jr. and Deborah Shade; brothers Harvey Kern and Paul Kern; and 1 grandchild. Services for Dolores will be privately held. Arrangements are by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service of Quakertown (215-536-3343). In lieu of flowers donations in Dolores’ memory can be made to the East Rockhill Chapel, 3364 Sternermill Rd., Quakertown PA 18951. James Donald Kantner, 72, of Quakertown passed away on March 16, 2022. He was born in Cameron County, PA on May 3, 1949 to the late Donald and Marie (Belis) Kantner. James was the loving husband of the late Brenda (Truesdale) Kantner until her passing on February 8, 2022. James retired from Amtrak in 2012 after over 39 years of dedicated service. He was an avid fan of Star Trek and anything Sci Fi, the Philadelphia Eagles and Penn State Football. James is survived by his daughters Heather Kantner and Rebecca Ohrberg (Carl); brothers Russell and Robert Kantner; and grandson Alex Ohrberg. Memorial services will be announced at a later time. Arrangements are by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service of Quakertown (215-536-3343). In lieu of flowers, donations in James’ memory can be made to the Bucks County SPCA. Vija Gabers, 70, died March 16, 2022. Services are private. Arrangments are in the care of the C. R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc. (www.crstrunk.com) Quakertown. Lowell S. Delcamp, age 90, of Quakertown, passed away on March 17, 2022, at his residence. He was the loving husband of the late Jean (Stoudt) Delcamp with whom they shared 62 years of marriage. Born in Boyertown, he was a son of the late George and Helen (Conrad) Delcamp. He graduated from Boyertown High School in 1950. After graduation, Lowell proudly served in the U.S. Navy during the Korean War. After his time in the military, Lowell served as a State Trooper for Dublin. Lowell loved to golf, eat out, fine dine, watch Nascar and listen to country music. Surviving is nieces Linda Schealer and JoAnn Hermann and his beloved dog Abby. He was predeceased by sister Virginia Schealer. In lieu of flowers donations may be made in his memory to Troopers Helping Troopers, www.troopershelpingtroopers.org, 3625 Vartan Way, Harrisburg, PA 17110 or Animals In Distress, P.O. Box 609 5075, Limeport Pike, Coopersburg, PA 18036. Arrangements are by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service of Quakertown (215-536-3343). Nancy Louise Wyckoff passed away March 18, 2022 in Naples, Florida after a four year battle with cancer. Nancy was born on November 24, 1941 in East Orange, New Jersey. She was the daughter of Louise and Elmer (Skip) Wyckoff of Quakertown. Nancy graduated Quakertown High School in 1959 and Syracuse University in 1963, majoring in fashion merchandising. Her business career spanned four decades of executive positions with Eastman Chemical Company, the May Company, Garfinkle’s, Woodward and Lothrop, and Macy’s. She concluded her career as VP, Sales Director for Swiss lingerie company, Calida of New York. Nancy retired to Naples, Florida enjoying years of competitive ballroom dancing. She was an avid traveler, a member of Rotary, and the United Church of Christ. Nancy is survived by her sister, Bette Jane Wyckoff of Irvine, California and brother Richard Wyckoff of Hershey, Pennsylvania. Also surviving her are nieces Heather Clark and Meredith Wyckoff and nephews Andrew and Michael Clark and Carter Wyckoff, grandniece Emma Wyckoff, and grandnephews Caden Clark and Henry Wyckoff. A private family service with be held at her gravesite in Asbury, New Jersey. Donations in remembrance of Nancy are to be given to cancer research.
April 2022 • Upper Bucks Free Press •
Michael C. Lewis, 51, of Slatington, PA, passed away peacefully Friday, March 18, 2022, surrounded by his loving family. Born in Memphis, TN, he was the son of Marlene A. (Jaskolski) and the late Clinton C. Lewis. He was a beloved son, brother, uncle and friend. Michael is survived by his mother Marlene, his brothers Robert Lewis and Paul Lewis, his sister Julie Lordan, and his caring nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his father Clinton Lewis. Services and burial will be held privately at the family’s convenience. Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service has been entrusted with the arrangements. Memorial Contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, or St. Luke’s Hospice House, Bethlehem, PA. Jerry Stauffer, 85, of Quakertown died March 18, 2022 in Phoebe Richland Health Care Center, Richlandtown. Born in Sellersville he was the son of the late Mark & Meda (Bader) Stauffer. He worked in the Maintenance Department of Met-Pro Technologies in Lansdale for 40 years before retiring. Jerry enjoyed tinkering with cars and electronics and attending car shows. He also enjoyed boating. He was a member of St. John’s U.C.C. in Richlandtown. Jerry was a U.S. Army Veteran. He is survived by a brother Carl Stauffer (Linda) of Quakertown; a sister Betty Koehler (Roger) of Texas. Predeceased by a brother Glenn. A Memorial Service was held on Friday, March 25, 2022 in the C. R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc. (www.crstrunk.com) 821 W. Broad St. Quakertown, PA 18951. William Mason Prescott, 63, of Quakertown formerly of Warminster died March 21, 2022 in his home. He was the husband of the late Debbie Ibbetson. Born in Philadelphia he was the son of the late Robert H. & Mildred (Thomas) Prescott. He was last employed as a landscaper. He enjoyed playing the guitar and drums and played in a band the former Sudden Impulse. He loved spending time with his grandchildren and great grandchild. William attended Church of Impact in Quakertown. He is survived by a son William Mason Ibbetson (Candice Frick); daughter in law Tiffany Ibbetson; four brothers Delbert Prescott, Johnny Prescott, Bobby Prescott, & Georgie Prescott; a sister Carol Long; four grandchildren Alexus Ibbetson (Michael), William Mason, Jr., Chad Preston Ibbetson, Skylar Adrainnia, one great grandchild Salvatore Lilliano Iucolino, and a step granddaughter Cali Catherine. Predeceased by a sister Mary. A memorial service was held on Friday, March 25, 2022 in the C. R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc. (www.crstrunk.com) 821 W. Broad St. Quakertown, PA 18951. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions can be made to American Cancer Society 1818 Market St. Suite 2820 Philadelphia, PA 19103. Rose Mary (McDermott) Northup
passed away peacefully, at home with her family, on March 23, 2022. She was born on October 25, 1926 in Manhattan, NY. She was the eldest of three daughters born to Teresa Farrell and Thomas McDermott. Rose lived on Tremont Avenue in the Bronx and graduated from St. Mary’s Catholic school. Following high school, she attended a secretarial school. She married Bob Morelock when she was 20 years old; and over the next 25 years, they designed and built their home in Malta Ridge with their own hands. In addition to being a part-time construction worker, she worked full time at GE as an executive secretary. At 55, she resigned from GE to realize her dream of being her own boss. She started her own word processing and later, typesetting business called, “The Last Word.” The name is very apropos as she was not only well known for always having the last word, but usually being right, much to the consternation of those around her. When she was 73 years old, she attended an Old-Timer’s reunion for employees of Malta Test Station. At the reunion, she reconnected with a co-worker, Robert Northup. They married in May of 2000 and traveled extensively on cruises to Alaska, Hawaii, and Asia until his death in 2007. Rose is survived by her three children: Cay (David) Coffin, Tom (Joan) Morelock, and Rob (Pam) Morelock; five grandchildren: Jeff (Krista) Cardini, Melissa (Bryan) Trombetta, Viktor Morelock, Thomas M. Morelock, and LauraRose Morelock; and nine greatgrandchildren, seven nieces and nephews and 18 great nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her parents, two husbands, two sisters, one niece, one nephew, and one great nephew.
~Obituaries~
There will be no viewing hours and services will be private for the family. Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service has been entrusted with the arrangements. Susan Jane (Otto) Arnholt, 74, of Quakertown, PA passed away on March 23, 2022. She was born in Abington, PA on January 19, 1948 to the late George F. and Gwendolyn (Gray) Otto. She was the loving high school sweetheart to Kenneth Arnholt until his passing in 1992. Susan graduated from Upper Dublin High School and then the Methodist Hospital School of Nursing in 1968 to become a registered nurse. From there she went on to work at Divine Providence Hospital in Williamsport, Chestnut Hill Hospital, Bucks County Intermediate Unit and Quakertown Senior High School. She and her husband also established a craft shop in their 18th century home, a sawmill called the Acorn Mill, and volunteered for the Quakertown Music Promoters Relay For Life. She enjoyed spending time with family and her grandchildren, gardening, restoring her historic property and home, and working with the Bucks County SPCA to provide care for cats. Susan is survived by her children Jay C. Arnholt, Christopher A. Arnholt, Jeffrey K. Arnholt (Kelly), and Abigail L. ArnholtIreland (Kiernan); grandchildren Aislinn and Taegan; brother George Otto; and many other loving family and friends. She is predeceased by her parents; husband; and sisters Judith Gromest and Virginia Louise Otto. All are invited to a graveside service at Whitemarsh Memorial Park, 1169 Limekiln Pike, Ambler, PA 19002 on Saturday, April 2nd at 10:00am. Arrangements are in the care of Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service (nauglefcs.com). In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation at themmrf.org or the Bucks County SPCA at buckscountyspca.org.
James F. Houpt, Sr., 79, of Harleysville, Pennsylvania, passed away Wednesday March 23, 2022, at his home in Harleysville, PA. Born in Quakertown, PA, he was the son of the late Esther Kathryn (Grebe-Cressman) and Joseph Houpt, Jr. He was the husband of the late Jean Houpt (9-5-21), with whom he shared 55 years of marriage. James was a long-time member at Rocky Ridge Mennonite Church, Quakertown, PA. James loved to go hunting, fishing, gardening working on his pond just being outdoors. He enjoyed woodworking, making furniture and being all around handyman. He enjoyed camping and being outdoors with family was one of his most favorite things. James is survived by his children; Mary Bauman (Brian) of Souderton, Bonnie Houpt of Harleysville, and James Houpt Jr. of Harleysville; sister Esther Diehl of Quakertown; sister-in-law Ruth Houpt of Green Lane; grandchildren Kierstin Guro (Sean) of Hellertown, Trisha DiTullio (Jason) of Telford, Wesley Bauman of Souderton and Noah Bauman of Souderton, great-grandson Grayson DiTullio. Along with many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by siblings, C. Walter Houpt, Charles Houpt, Tacey Kunitsky Grant and grandson Dillan Bauman and greatgrandson Levi James DuTillio. You are invited to visit with James’s family and friends on Saturday, April 9th from 10:00 - 11:00 am. at Rocky Ridge Mennonite Church, 114 Rocky Ridge Rd., Quakertown, PA 18951. A memorial service celebrating his life will follow at 11:00 am. Interment will be held after the service at the adjoining cemetery. Arrangements are in the care of Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service (nauglefcs.com). Mary Theresa “Terri” Roger, 74, of Telford, formerly of Schwenksville, PA died on Wednesday, March 23rd, 2022 at The Community at Rockhill, Sellersville, PA. She was the wife of the late Albert Charles Roger. Terri was born in Danville, PA to the late Charles Frank Miriello and the late Florence (Vincenzes) Miriello. A graduate of Mount Carmel Area High School, Class of 1965, Terri then graduated with a BA in Education from Bloomsburg State College, Bloomsburg, PA in 1969. She was employed as a Teacher for North Penn School District, Lansdale, PA for 30 years, retiring in 1999. After retirement from teaching, Terri worked as receptionist and office administrator for Indian Creek Foundation and for the Upper Bucks Free Press. Terri was a member of and volunteer for Generations, Souderton, PA and also assisted adults and children who had a reading difficulty. She enjoyed floral gardening, walking, reading, travel, watching football games, and attending concerts at Souderton Sundaes in the
Park, Philly Pops and many others. Terri was a generous and gifted baker who used her talents to bring sunshine to many. She had a special love for playing in the Bell Choirs of several local churches. In addition to her close personal friend, Gary Nemec, she is survived by many friends, cousins, and her niece, Joann Musto of Alexandria, VA. She was preceded in death by her husband Albert, her sister, Louise Gursky, and her lifelong friend, Faith Kirchhoff of Mount Carmel PA. In lieu of flowers consider donating in her name to your local library, the North Penn Valley Boys and Girls Club: www.npvclub. org/donate, Indian Creek Foundation: indcreek.org, or Generations of Indian Valley, generationsofiv.org
John F. Fost, 77, of Springfield Twsp., Pa passed away March 25, 2022 in St. Luke’s Upper Bucks Campus. He was the husband of Carol (Deininger) Fost. They were married on July 3, 1965 and they celebrated 56 years of marriage last July. Born in Quakertown he was the son of the late John & Louise (Raith) Fost. He was a truck driver for the former Delbar Industries in Perkasie where he also was the Union Leader of the International Machinist #1092 for 40 years. Prior to that he worked for Perkasie Industries. He was a member of the Paletown Rod & Gun Club, and the NRA. John also enjoyed farming, riding his tractor, animals, especially birds, and his dog Cody. He was a member of Springfield Mennonite Church in Coopersburg, where he formerly did the cemetery and building maintenance. John was a veteran of the Army National Guard serving during the Vietnam War stateside and a member of the Nase-Kraft American Legion Post#255 in Sellersville. In addition to his wife he is survived by a son Michael John Fost, a daughter Michelle Elizabeth Gawronski (John); a sister Emily Schantz. Six precious grandchildren Jason Gawronski (Julie), David Gawronski (Hannah), Madelyn Fost, Michael Fost, Evan Fost, & Jacob Fost; four precious great grandchildren Hailey, Dakota, Owen, & Hudson. He was predeceased by an infant daughter Mary Louise Fost. Services will be held on Friday, April 1, 2022 at 12:00 P.M. in the C. R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc. (www.crstrunk.com) 821 W. Broad St. Quakertown, PA 18951. Call 11:00 A.M.-12:00 P.M. in the funeral home. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions can be made to Springfield Mennonite Church 1905 Pleasant View Rd. Coopersburg, PA 18036 or to Prostate Cancer Foundation 1250 Fourth St. Santa Monica, CA 90401. Edwin Oliver Balliet, Jr., 88, of Quakertown, PA, passed away peacefully at his niece’s home on March 27th, 2022 in the presence of close family. Born May 29th, 1933, in Springtown, PA, he was the youngest son of the late Edwin Oliver, Sr and Florence Balliet, née Cawley. Edwin, or Uncle Junie as he was known to his family, was a US Army Veteran, enlisting in 1956 to serve is country. He was later assigned to the 3rd Infantry Division, trained at Fort Benning in Georgia and was recruited to accompany the Pentomic Marne Division to Germany in the Spring of 1958. After his military service, he came home to Quakertown to work and help his parents run the family farm. When Edwin was younger, he spent most of his time collecting scrap metal with his late brother Ralph, or helping his long-time neighbor and friend, David, farm the land. In those days, you could always find him in the seat of a tractor somewhere, mowing or moving hay bales. He also enjoyed chopping trees, so much so that he eventually purchased a wood-cutting machine and began filling the back barn with enough firewood to supply himself, his family, and the locals each winter. Beyond his affinity for hard work and fresh air, Edwin loved his family, relishing in morning chats in his tiny kitchen over cups of strong coffee. He adored holiday meals and graciously accepted any invite to Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner, especially if he knew there would be pie. As a simple man who appreciated simple pleasures, Edwin enjoyed his peace and freedom for most of his life. His sweet and kind soul will live on in the memory of his family and friends forever. Edwin is survived by six nieces and two nephews. He is predeceased by two brothers, Ralph and Kenneth Balliet, three sisters, Mildred Frey, Dorothy Helm and Irene Hrycko, and two nephews, Ronald and Scott Balliet. Arrangements are in the care of the C. R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc. (crstrunk.com) In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the Bucks County SPCA.
9
Judith Weaver Moore, passed away on March 27, 2022 at the age of 64 at Belle Haven Health Care Center in Quakertown, PA. She was born on March 10, 1958, the youngest daughter of Roy A. Weaver, Jr. & Norma (Carlson) Weaver. Judith graduated from Hopedale High School in 1976. While a student she was active in many sports and loved to play the drums. She moved with her family to Spartanburg South Carolina in 1976. She worked as a chef at Annie Oaks for many years in Spartanburg. Judith moved back to New England in the 1990’s with her marriage to Paul Moore. They lived in Woolwich, Maine for many years. She loved living in Maine and being close to the ocean! She was predeceased by her husband in 2008. Judith is survived by her mother Norma Weaver of Quakertown, PA, sisters: The Reverend Dr. Susan Weaver Ellis (David) of Quakertown, PA, Kathy Nigro (Tom) of Randolph, New Jersey, and a brother Donald R. Weaver (Wanda) of Columbia, South Carolina. Four nephews, three nieces and numerous cousins. Funeral services will be private. Arrangements are in the care of the C. R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc. (crstrunk.com) Quakertown. Donations in her memory can be sent to The National Multiple Sclerosis Society at donateMS.org. Larry C. Blowars Jr., 51, of Macungie, passed away at his residence on Saturday, March 26, 2022. Born in 1970, he was the son of Lynn (Menihan) Blowars, and the late Larry C. Blowars, Sr. He was the husband of Lillian (Frederick) Blowars, with whom he shared 5 years of marriage. Larry worked as a machinist for over ten years for Laboratory Testing Inc., Hatfield, PA. In his spare time, he enjoyed hunting, fishing, and being a husband, father, and grandfather for his family. In addition to his wife and mother, Larry is survived by his daughters, Alexa Blowars (Eric), Brianna Citrino (Anthony), and Kayla Bright (David), step-children, Anne Stear (Jacob), and Nathan Frederick siblings, Jennifer Blowars, Thomas C. Blowars, grandchildren, Oliver, Finley, Marcelina, Madeline, Sophia, and Henry who will be arriving any day. Services to be announced at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorial Contributions for Larry may be made to the American Cancer Society. Arrangements are in the care of Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service (nauglefcs.com). Joseph T. Armstrong, 52, of Quakertown passed away on March 27, 2022. He was born in Philadelphia, PA on March 6, 1970 to the late Joseph T. and Mary (Corrigan) Armstrong. Joseph worked as a mechanic after graduating from Pennridge High School, eventually joining his father’s hydraulics repair business he had started in the 1980s, which they then later re-named, Armstrong & Son in Sellersville, PA. After their business closed he then worked as a road mechanic up until the time of his passing. Along with his love for Nascar, Flyers and the Pittsburgh Steelers, Joseph was also a devout member to the Perkasie Owls Club where he volunteered on the “Chicken Hawk Crew” and would spend time participating and helping with events. He always loved his Owls Family and was the first person to introduce himself to new members and make sure they became comfortable. Joseph is survived by his fiance Michelle Keller; former spouse and mother to his five children Lisa Armstrong; daughters Jessica, Emily, Sara, Samantha and Kathryn Armstrong; step-mother Mary Ann Armstrong; stepsister Amanda Larkin; sister Connie Gehman; nieces Ashley and Courtney; nephew Cody; and many other loving family and friends. All are invited to a visitation for Joseph on Saturday, April 9, 2022 from 3-5pm, and a Life Celebration at 5pm, both at Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service, 135 W. Pumping Station Rd., Quakertown, PA 18951. In lieu of flowers, donations in Joseph’s memory can be made to the American Heart Association at Heart.org. Betty M. Roeder, 95, of Quakertown died March 28, 2022 in Independence Court, Quakertown. She was the wife of the late Horace O. Roeder. Born in Allentown, PA she was the daughter of the late Roman & Mamie (Seip) Bogert. She was an Assembler for the former Pittman Electronics in Sellersville before retiring. Betty was a member of Trinity Great Swamp UCC in Spinnerstown. CONTINUED ON PAGE 10
10
• Upper Bucks Free Press • April 2022
~Obituaries~
Betty M Roeder CONTINUED FROM PAGE 9 She is survived by a son Barry Roeder (Susan), and a daughter Nancy Rupell; four grandchildren Danielle Weiss (Carl, II), Jason Rupell (Megan), Brian Roeder (Trina), & Heather Roach; eight great grandchildren Carl, III, Makayla, Madilyn, Lacey, Brent, Kaylie, Bexley, & Orion; a granddaughter in law Gloria Roeder. She was predeceased by grandson Michael, two brothers William Bogert & Roman Bogert,Jr.; a sister Kathryn Lipovsky, and a son in law Harold. Graveside services will be private. Arrangements are in the care of the C. R. Strunk Funeral Home, Inc. (www.crstrunk. com) Quakertown. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions can be made to Trinity Great Swamp U.C.C. P.O. Box 494 Spinnerstown, PA 18968
Michael (Mike) John Clisham, 73, of Quakertown, PA passed away peacefully on March 28, 2022, with his loving wife by his side, after living bravely with dementia. Born in Quakertown on July 25, 1948, he was son to the late John Francis and Nancy (Stacy) Clisham. Mike is survived by his wife of 52 years, Kathy; children Tori (Sean) McAndrews and John (Monica) Clisham; grandchildren Carly, Michael, Anna, Grace, and Rosemary; brother Dennis (Elaine) Clisham; niece Amy Wait; nephew Joseph Clisham; and many other loving family and friends. Mike, aka “Clish” was a 1970 graduate of Georgetown University’s International Affairs program. A proud Army veteran, Mike retired
as Command Sergeant Major after serving the US Army Reserves for 34 years. With extensive experience in infantry and aviation operations, Mike received the following honors for his service: the Meritorious Service Medal, the Army Commendation Medal, the Army Achievement Medal and National Defense Medal with one star. In conjunction with his military career, Mike also worked for Bucks County Juvenile Probation for 30 years, retiring as Deputy Chief in 2005. From Bucks County, he went on to serve as the Associate Director of Protection Services for the Philadelphia Museum of Art until he retired in 2013. In addition to his professional life, Mike was also very involved in his community, coaching youth soccer and basketball as well as being partially responsible for bringing ice hockey to Quakertown High School in 1988. He was also honored to serve on several boards, including the Juvenile Detention Board of Managers, the Bucks County Youth Center and the PA DUI Association. An achievement of which he was very proud was being co-author of the Crisis Response for Teachers, a guide written for Quakertown Community School District in response to the 9/11 terrorist attacks. All are invited on Saturday, April 2 to a visitation from 10-11am and a memorial service at 11am, both at Calvary Church, 820 PA-113, Souderton, PA 18964. Arrangements are in the care of Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service (nauglefcs.com). In lieu of flowers, donations in Michael’s honor can be made to Homes For Our Troops at hfotusa.org or the Alzheimer’s Association at alz.org.
Think Local. Buy Local. Be Local. Cornplanter’s Tomahawk My deer hunting “camp” is in Allegheny National Forest in McKean County, PA. [I’m no purist. It’s a comfortable, two story house with kitchen, shower, gas heat and Dish TV]. It’s a few miles from Kinzua Dam recreational area. The ‘mountainous’, forested region was Seneca ‘Indian Country’ until after the turn of the 19th century. Cornplanter is one of the tribe’s best remembered leaders. There’s still a small Cornplanter Wilderness Area, but most of his ‘reservation’ is now under the waters of Allegheny Reservoir (in violation of a ‘treaty forever’ signed by George Washington). John Abeel III (Gyantwachia -‘the planter’-in Seneca), was born about 1736. Usually called Cornplanter, he was a Dutch-Seneca chief and skilled diplomat. During his time, the Seneca were (by way of conquest), members of the Haudenosaunee (Iroquois Confederacy). Cornplanter fought against the British in the French and Indian War, but for them during the American Revolution. Later, he led negotiations with the United States and signed the Treaty of Fort Stanwix (1784), which kept the Iroquois neutral during the Northwest Indian War. Cornplanter was a renowned war-chief, gaining his reputation at Braddock’s Defeat. He advocated neutrality during the American Revolution saying—“War is war, Death is death. A fight is a hard business”—but followed the majority of tribes in joining the British. He participated in the infamous
Wyoming Massacre of 1778, in northeast PA. Later that year, after the Seneca village of Tioga was burned by ‘Patriots’, Cornplanter and Mohawk chief, Joseph Brant, joined John Butler’s Loyalist Rangers and perpetrated the Cherry Valley (NY) Massacre. Cornplanter’s Dutch father was captured and his home burned during that battle. As Cornplanter’s father, John Abeel was spared, offered an option, then given safe passage when he chose the ‘whiteman’s’ world, over that of the Seneca. In response to the Loyalist/Iroquois ‘victories’, Commander-in-chief, George Washington sent General John Sullivan and 5,000 militiamen to ‘Indian Country.’ Sullivan defeated the British and Iroquois at the Battle of Newtown (NY), and then set out on a vengeful, scorched earth campaign. Between May and September, 1779, he methodically destroyed Indian villages, farms, stored crops and livestock across western NY and northwestern PA. The Natives endured severe deprivation and starvation during the ensuing “winter of deep snow.” Though Cornplanter fought to the end, after the Revolution he realized a positive relationship with “the Thirteen Fires” (USA) was necessary. In 1790, he and his brother, Chief Half-Town, met with President Washington and Governor Mifflin in Philadelphia to protest the treatment of their people in Pennsylvania. He visited ‘white-cities’ several times for negotiations during the terms of Washington and Jefferson. At a meeting in 1792, Cornplanter was given a prized token of peace: a combination tomahawk/pipe. Tobacco was a plant of cultural and spiritual
significance to Native-Americans. A common and prized gift to Indian leaders in the 1700’s, the ‘peace-pipe’ given to Cornplanter by Washington was engraved on one side with Cornplanter’s name and ‘John Andrus’ (presumably the craftsman), on the other. A blade on one end of the axe head, the other had a pipe-bowl attached. The tomahawk’s hollow, maple handle was inlayed with silver and served as the pipe-stem. Cornplanter accepted his tribe’s inevitable future. He was impressed by the beliefs and practices of Quakers and invited them into his lands to establish schools and educate his people in the way of life to which he knew they must adapt. To protect his people and to honor his agreements, Cornplanter kept the Iroquois out of the Northwest Indian War, negotiating on behalf of the USA with the neighboring Shawnee. He supported the USA in the War of 1812, offering 200 warriors to the government, which were declined. Eventually, though, Cornplanter became disillusioned with his relationship with the USA, believing his people were treated poorly by the government. He and other leaders preached that, to fight the despair and suffering of his people were enduring, particularly from alcohol abuse, they must return to the traditional ways and participate in religious ceremonies. On his first ride on a steamboat on the Upper Allegheny River Cornplanter’s increasing disdain for ‘white-ways’ was clear when he said: “whites will do anything to avoid using their muscles.” Cornplanter burned his US military uniform, broke his sword, destroyed his medals and cast his presidential tomahawk into a fire. However, iron tools were precious and, somehow, the scorched tomahawk-head was recovered. Cornplanter, who was given by President Washington a 1,500 acre ‘plantation’ along
the Allegheny River near the mouth of Kinzua Creek, died in 1815. His successor as Seneca a chief was Canada (O-ya-wah-teh). In 1854, Ely Parker—lawyer, engineer on the Erie Canal, future Civil War Lt. Colonel who served as Gen. Grant’s adjutant, and future Commissioner of Indian Affairs—succeeded him. Parker, an advocate of the preservation of Native American History, purchased Cornplanter’s tomahawk-head from Canada’s widow, Small Berry. He restored it based on descriptions of the original and added a brass plate with his own name. Ely Parker and Lewis Henry Morgan jointly established the Seneca-Iroquois National Museum, which is part of the New York State Museum system. Parker donated Cornplanter’s tomahawk (and many other artifacts), to the institution. Parker’s family remained associated with the museum. His grand-nephew, Arthur C. Parker—a renowned American archeologist--was curator when a fire spread through the museum on May 29, 1911. As he and an assistant raced to save artifacts, Arthur used Cornplanter’s tomahawk as a fire-axe, breaking open display cases to affect rescue. Cornplanter’s tomahawk survived its second fire, and was displayed prominently at the museum until 1947, when it mysteriously disappeared. Efforts were made to find the thief, to no avail. It was considered lost for over 70 years until, in 2018, an anonymous donor returned it. It was eagerly accepted (no questions asked), and again is now on display at the NY State Museum. Cornplanter’s tomahawk remains an important part of the story of our relationship with the people who preceded us as masters of this land.. Jack Schick is a long time Quakertown area resident and regular contributor here at
UBFP. Reach him at sjckschc@aol.com
April 2022 • Upper Bucks Free Press •
11
The answers to the puzzles on this page are found elsewhere in this issue.
Think Local. Play Local. Be Local.
Have something to share with your community? Send it to us!
UBFP • 582 S. West End Blvd, Ste 2 • Quakertown, PA 18951 info@ubfp.org • fb.com/ubfreepress • www.ubfp.org
Baa Bark Bow Wow Caw Chirp Cluck Croak Growl
Heehaw Hiss Honk Howl Meow Moo Neigh
Oink Peep Purr Quack Roar Screech Snarl Squawk
Squeak Tweet Whine Whinny Woof Yowl
12
• Upper Bucks Free Press • April 2022
Upper Bucks Area Places of Worship Bible Baptist Church Meets at HIghland Park Dining Hall 415 Highland Park Road Sellersville, PA 18960 484-523-3333 www.biblebaptistcares.org Pastor: Tom Harris Bible Study Hour 9:30 am, Morning Worship 10:30 am, Services interpreted for the deaf Christ Church United Church of Christ 101 N. Main Street Trumbauersville, PA 18970 215-538-0142 christchurch10@verizon.net www.christchurchisalive.org Pastor: David Heckler A friendly, welcoming church. Change fear into hope, doubt into faith. God is calling. Join us at 11am Sunday. Halleleujah! Christ’s Lutheran Church 1 Luther Lane Trumbauersville, PA 18970 215-536-3193 christselca@verizon.net www.christslutheran.com Interim Pastor: Rev. Susan Lang 9:00am Worship, 10:15 Sunday School Handicapped accessible, Family Friendly Church. Find us on Facebook! Church of the Incarnation 44 S. 8th Street Quakertown, PA 18951 215-538-3787 Ardores@verizon.net www.IncarnationQuakertown.org Pastor: Most Rev. Thomas J. Kleppinger Traditional worship, Biblical faith Sunday 10:30am, Holy Days as announced. Emmanuel Episcopal Church 560 S. Main Street Quakertown, PA 18951 215-536-3040 emmanuelchurch11@yahoo.com www.emmanuelquakertown.org Sunday service at 10am, Visitors and new members always welcome!
First United Church of Christ Fourth Street & Park Avenue Quakertown, PA 18951 215-536-4447 info@firstUCC.net www.firstUCC.net Facebook.com/FirstUCCQuakertown Co-Pastors: Douglas & Joyce Donigian Traditional worship Sunday 9:15am, Contemporary Service 11:45am, Alternative worship Sunday 5:15pm, Community dinners every 3rd Thursday 5:30pm Good News Church 424 Juniper Street Quakertown, PA 18951 215-536-4393 Pastor: David Markey, Jr. An alternative to the ultra-contemporary Sunday Worship and Children’s Church 10:30 am, Wednesday Bible Study 7:30pm, World Evangelism Fellowship affiliate. Grace Bible Fellowship Church 1811 Old Bethlehem Pike N. Quakertown, PA 18951 215-536-6096 grace@quakertownbfc.org www.quakertownbfc.org Sr. Pastor: Ron Kohl Sunday School for all ages. 10:10am Morning Worship, Small group meetings 2nd & 4th Sundays 6:30pm; Tues: Ladies Bible Study 9:45am; Wed: AWANA (2 yrs - 6th grade) & Teens for Christ 6:30pm, Adult prayer meeting 6:45pm Juniper Street Bible Church 317 Juniper Street Quakertown, PA 18951 267-373-9115 Pastor: Bob Stevenson www.juniperstreetbiblechurch.org Sunday worship 10am (also watch live on our Facebook page), Tuesday 7pm Bible study and prayer. We offer an invitation to you. Come and worship with us. Morning Star Fellowship 429 S. 9th Street Quakertown, PA 18951 215-529-6422 Pastors: John & Theresa Decker www.mstarqtown.org Sunday Services at 9 am and 11 am. Our cafe is open with free coffee. Children’s Ministries provided. Celebrate Recovery on Tuesdays at 7 pm. Student Ministries on Wednesdays at 6:30 pm. Weekly Connections. For updates and schedule changes, check our website.
PASTOR AXEL KAEGLER
of security… Peace means giving oneself completely to God’s commandment… Not trying to direct it for selfish purposes.” From the death and resurrection of Jesus, and the history of the Church in the Book of Acts, we learn that peace is not a mere state of being. It is an action done in community with God, for the community on earth, and in accordance with the way, the truth, and the life. It is done in spite of a world that would have us be satisfied with something less - namely our own satisfaction surrounded by our neighbors’ want. Even when there is no peace, we can be at peace, when we dare it. Peace puts us in conflict with those who benefit from our discord. It’s a divine thing. And it’s worth it. I don’t know what the Archbishop’s next move for peace will be. But I admire such a start, and I suspect he’ll keep at it. And I know that we can support those who are unsatisfied with conquest, and dare for peace between Ukraine, Russia, and the world. Who call for the Russian government to back down, and to repent. We can equip refugees, and stock clinics. We can give of what we have. And in our own lives, we can dare for peace at home, by loving our neighbor as ourselves.. Axel Kaegler is the pastor at St. John’s Lutheran Church of Spinnerstown. You can reach him at kaegax01@gmail.com.
This past week, the Archbishop Dietrich Brauer of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Russia, Ukraine, Kazakhstan, and Central Asia has fled from Moscow with his wife, Pastor Tatjana Petrenko and their three children for Germany. He left following his critiques of the Russian invasion of Ukraine - having been informed of the army’s actions by the pastors under his charge in Ukraine - and his call for peace. This was ill-received by the Russian state, to say the least. So now, even though he is Russian by birth and citizenship, his family can no longer live at home without retaliation. The Archbishop’s prayers for peace have cost him the place anyone would feel most at peace - their home. That is where we’re meant to feel most at peace, right? At home, amid the familiar, and with the people we love. When we pray in our worship services, and I hope when we pray at home, we often pray for this kind of peace. But I think there is a more rigorous, and holier kind of peace than this! One we all have access to, and should pursue at all costs! To borrow a line from pastor, theologian and martyr Dietrich Bonhoeffer “There is no way to peace along the way of safety. For peace must be dared. It is itself the great venture and can never be safe. Peace is the opposite
Palisades Community Bible Church 8730 Easton Road Revere, PA 18953 610-847-2637 secretary@pcbchurch.com www.pcbchurch.com Pastor: Rev. Corbin Seltzer, Jr. Sunday School (all ages) 9:30am, Sunday Morning Worship 10:30am, Tuesday Prayer Meeting 7:00pm, Men & Ladies’ Bible Studies - see website. “Walk by Faith.” II Cor. 5:7 Quakertown United Methodist Church 1875 Freier Road Quakertown, PA 18951 215-536-4992 barb@qumc.com www.qumc.com Pastor: Rev. Richard K. Brown II Sunday schedule: Worship 8:30 am, Sunday School 9:45 am, Worship 11 am Communion first Sunday of each month. Richland Friends Meeting (Quaker) Main St at Mill Rd & Park Ave Quakertown, PA 18951 215-538-7555 Friends@RichlandQuakers.org www.RichlandQuakers.org Clerk: Jack H. Schick Non-Denominational guided meditations Wed, 7pm Sunday worship 10:30am “Absolute freedom of thought and worship is our faith and practice.” St. Isidore Roman Catholic Church 2545 West Pumping Station Rd Quakertown, PA 18951 (215) 536-4389 Pastor: Rev. Kenneth C. Brabazon izzyparoff@comcast.net www.stisidores.org Sunday Masses - 5:00pm Saturday evenings; 7:00am, 9:00am, & 11:00am on Sunday mornings; 1:00pm in Spanish Sunday afternoons St. John’s Lutheran Church 4 South Main Street • PO Box 459 Richlandtown, PA 18955 215-536-5027 Admin@stjohnsrpa.org www.stjohnsrpa.org Pastor: Rev Dr. David A Genszler In person worship service Sunday at 9:30 am, Watch our Worship Service anytime on stjohnsrpa.org/sermon or on Facebook. Activity Center Rentals Open, Capacity 125, call 215-536-5027 to book.
St. John’s Lutheran Church of Spinnerstown 1565 Sleepy Hollow Rd, Spinnerstown 18968 215-536-0734 stjohnsspinnerstown@gmail.com www.stjohnsofspinnerstown.org Pastor: The Rev. Axel Kaegler Worship Service: 9:30 a.m. Service also will be live-streamed on Facebook (St. John’s Lutheran Church, Spinnerstown, PA) and video will be available on church website. Check website for updated COVID guidelines. St. John’s Lutheran Ridge Valley 910 Allentown Road, West Rockhill Twp 215-257-9643 stjohnsridgevalley910@gmail.com www.stjohnsridgevalley.com 8:30am Traditional - 10:15am w/praise band. Grape juice & gluten-free wafers available. Adult Forum 9:40, Handicapped accessible. All invited and welcome to Share the Joy! St. Paul’s Lutheran Church of Applebachsville 837 Old Bethlehem Road, Quakertown 215-536-5789 stpaulsqtown@gmail.com www.stpaulsqtown.org Pastor: Rev. David Heckler We believe in sharing God’s love in joyful service. Come and see. All are welcome. St. Paul’s United Church of Christ 104 Green Street Sellersville, PA 18960 215-257-7268 Pastor: Rev. Trudy Irving stacey@stpaulsucc.net www.stpaulsucc.net Sunday Worship 10:15 in Sanctuary Springfield Mennonite Church 1905 Pleasant View Road Coopersburg PA 18036 267-999-1404 Pastor: Joseph Wames pastorjoe@springfieldmennonite.org www.springfieldmennonite.org Join us at 10:15a Sunday Mornings for a Blended Worship Service, Multi-generational, loving congregation. Biblically and Doctrinally Sound. Trinity Lutheran Church 102 N. Hellertown Avenue Quakertown, PA 18951 (215) 536.4345 www.trinityquakertown.org Pastor: Dayle Malloy 9 a.m. Traditional service, 11 a.m. Contemporary Service, 10: 15 a.m. Sunday School, Handicap accessible, Family Friendly, Dynamic Music Ministry, Living God’s Love for All
Did Your Mother Have Eye Power? Recently, I was asked the question, “What did you hide from your mother as a child?” I had to think about that for a while because there was not a lot anyone could hide from my mother. You see, I was born in the 1940s, and raised in the 1950s, and early 1960s. During that time, the legal age was twenty-one. I did not reach that stage of adulthood until the mid1960s, which means that there were “rules of the house” that you had to abide BY, or it was BYE-BYE. Allow me to clarify that parents were different during those decades. There was little a child could do that their parents did not know about. They were wise and observant. As young children, we believed everything our parents told us including that they had eyes in the back of their heads and could see everything that we did. My mother had a glass bowl with a lid that she kept on our kitchen table. It was filled with sugar for coffee and tea. I happened to like sugar so I would eat teaspoons of sugar from the bowl. As the level of sugar decreased in the bowl, she would ask me if I was eating it. Of course, my response was, “No, Mama.” When she described the exact time, technique, and act of the theft, I was convinced that she indeed had eye power, and I could no longer hide my sugar addiction from her. When I became an adolescent, that myth vanished, and occasionally I would “test” the waters. When I entered high school, we were allowed to wear make-up, but the rule at my house was no make-up. My school bus stop was down the road from our house, so as soon as I got on the bus and took my seat, that bright red lipstick adorned my lips. I was always sure to wash off every trace before I left school.
During the 50s and 60s when it rained, we wore rubber boots (also known as galoshes) over our shoes. I disliked those galoshes with a passion. There was a wooded area at the end of the road which was a “T.” I noticed a big rock where I could remove those boots and hide them until I came home from school. I had to be careful that my mother was not in sight when I got off the bus, or she would see me retrieving my boots from their day-long place of hiding. The biggest thing I hid from my mother was smoking cigarettes when I was twenty years old. Remember, I was not yet an adult, but even during my adulthood, my mother never saw me with a cigarette in my hand or mouth. I knew how she felt about smoking and drinking and I respected her “rules of the house.” Before I went home, I would lightly splatter Jean Nate Body Splash over my clothing and pop in several SenSen licorice-flavored breath fresheners. I know some of you remember them. As observant as my mother was, I do believe that was one of the things I successfully hid from her. And then again, maybe not. As I reflected on that question, I thought about my children. I also had them convinced that I had a special eye power that I had inherited from their Nana. History certainly does repeat itself. “On a hill far away stood an old rugged cross The emblem of suffering and shame And I love that old cross where the dearest and best For a world of lost sinners was slain George Bennard, 1912 Wishing you Easter Blessings. Jacque Holliday is a long time freelance contributor to UBFP. She always welcomes your comments via email at jacque@ubfp.org
April 2022 • Upper Bucks Free Press •
13
2022 Hyundai Santa Cruz Hyundai SUVs have become very popular, especially with their generous warranties, and they’re all winners. But there was something missing. A pickup truck. Well a pickup has arrived with the launch of Hyundai’s compact Santa Cruz pickup that’s base on a stretched and wider version of their top selling Tucson SUV. Santa Cruz combines a 4-door compact SUV with a pickup truck bed. Hyundai likes to call it a “Sport Adventure Vehicle.” It’s similar to the old mini-bed Ford Explorer Sport Trac that was essentially a 4-door Explorer with a true 4WD system, and in some cases, the Subaru Baja that never became a big seller. Then there’s the Honda’s AWD Ridgeline with shortened bed that’s inches shy of a fullsize pickup. Santa Cruz is offered in FWD and AWD and with two engine choices. The base engine is a 2.5-liter inline 4-cylinder putting out 191hp and 181 lb/ft of torque. When coupled to an 8-speed automatic transmission, EPA rates it at 21 city, 27-highway mpg with AWD. We tested the higher output 2.5-liter turbocharged inline 4-cylinder with 281-hp and 311 lb/ ft of torque. EPA gave it mileage estimates of 19/27 mpg with an 8-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission with paddle shifters. The combination is tow rated for up to 5,000 pounds with trailer brakes This engine is only available with AWD that’s needed here in the Snowbelt. Santa Cruz’s exterior styling with unitbody design gives the pickup a seamless, solid look. Its bold grille has Tucson-type running lights and a skid plate under the front fascia that entertains an acute approach angle of 17.5 degrees while it helps protect the trucks’ undercarriage vitals when off-roading.
The composite bed is four feet long with the aft portion housing a 7-inch deep underbed and a non-locking bin that has a drain plug so it can be used to stow (and drain) ice to keep drinks cold. If the tailgate is locked, the under-bed bin cannot be opened. The tailgate has to be opened to open the bin. The test truck came with a lockable composite tonneau cover along with four tiedown cleats on the bed rails. There are also detents molded into the bedsides for two-tier loading. Lift over onto the open tailgate (that opens remotely via the keyfob) is a low 31.5 inches. Upon a 20-inch step-in into the cockpit, Santa Cruz’s interior resembles that what’s found in the Santa Fe and Palisade SUVs. The center stack houses a 10.25-inch touchscreen that serves the audio, navigation, rearview camera, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto connectivity and, when tired of music, “Sounds of Nature” are replicated outdoor sounds like Calm Sea Waves, Warm Fireplace, Rainy Day, Open Air Café and others to soothe you.
Flush HVAC controls are aligned on a touchscreen with selections displayed on the large touchscreen along with other functions and features. Heated/cooled leatherette front seats are abundantly padded with sensible lumbar support. A (heated) steering wheel mounted mode switch offers Normal, Smart, Snow and Sport modes. The latter increases engine rpm’s a bit and upshifts are delayed somewhat. All modes are displayed within the 10.25-inch digital gauge cluster. Residing there as well is a steer assist switch that maintains the Santa Cruz between the highway lines provided at least one hand is lightly on the wheel. Otherwise an instrument cluster alert comes on.
How the Federal Reserve Works
On the console is an AWD Lock switch for when the going gets tough, or stuck in snow or mud. Santa Cruz has a ground clearance of 8.6 inches to get it through modest snow depths and over some off-road hazards. Santa Cruz’s back seat is comfy for two adults but legroom is on the tight side, especially if the fronts are racked well rearward. Headroom is ample and there are assist handles over all four doors. The rear seat bottoms flip up against the bulkhead exposing a hidden full-length 7-inch deep bin for small item storage. As for ride, it resembles that in Hyundai’s fine SUVs, albeit with a cargo box. It’s smooth with no jiggly feeling and it parks easily thanks to its size and maneuverability. And the 2.5L turbo feels like a V6 under the hood when pressing hard on the accelerator. photo by christopher betz The 2022 Santa Cruz came with one extra cost option and that being carpeted floor mats ($195). Otherwise the standard list is exhaustive and includes such most needed safety features like forward collision avoidance assist, lane keeping/following assist, driver attention warning, blind spot collision avoidance assist, rear cross traffic collision avoidance assist, safe exit warning, remote engine start and many more. For all that plus satellite radio, Bose audio and Blue Link connected services, Santa Fe bottom lined at $41,100 with a $1,185 delivery charge Added to this you get Hyundai’s generous warranty of 5 year/60K new vehicle warranty, 10/100K powertrain, 7/Unlimited perforation, 3/36K complimentary maintenance and 5/ Unlimited roadside assistance. Unbeatable coverage. For those who take jaunts in the great outdoors and do some semi-rugged offroading, or merely hauling mulch and garden supplies, the Santa Cruz can take you there and tow some toys like a 14-foot boat or ATV. It’s multifaceted and it’s fun to drive.. Nick Hromiak is an automotive enthusiast and freelance writer. We look forward to bringing you his new column each month. He can be reached at nhromiak@verizon.net.
Milford Twp Fish, Game & Forestry Association Events At a recent meeting I witnessed quite a few youngsters in attendance with their parents. A little over 60 years ago our club was formed to become a united voice against a threat to our hunting rights in our township, Within two years our organization started a swing in not only our fishing and hunting issues, but how we could involve the members and their families in the activities of our wonderful outdoors. Today I am proud that our first Trout Fishing Contest in what was known as “Rushes Dam” has grown to many family programs. These programs include safety programs, safe shooting programs for out youth at our two annual “Family Shoots”, the Trout Fishing Contest in our own pond, Bluebird House building, Hunter Safety Certification
Classes, and use of our close to 100 acres of land and its waters for family participation in hunting and fishing activities. Our current such member programs include the Trout Fishing Rodeo that is tentatively set for April 23, 2022, and a special Youth Education Day involving other outdoor sports club in the are outlined below scheduled to be held on Saturday, June 18, 2022. More details will follow. Members please mark your calendar for this great event! The Youth Activity Day involves various State Agencies to answer any questions, various organizations such as the Wild Turkey Federation and the Keystone Elk County Alliance to acquaint our youth with these specific species found in our
Have you ever taken a close look at paper money? Each U.S. bill has the words “Federal Reserve Note” imprinted across the top. But many individuals may not know why the bill is issued by the Federal Reserve and what role the Federal Reserve plays in the economy. Here’s an inside look. The Federal Reserve, often referred to as “the Fed,” is the country’s central bank. It was founded by Congress in 1913 to provide the nation with a safer, more-flexible, and morestable monetary and financial system. Prior to its creation, the U.S. economy was plagued by frequent episodes of panic, bank failures, and limited credit. (FederalReserve.gov, 2022) The Fed has four main roles in the U.S. economy. Economy Watch In addition to its other duties, the Fed has been given three mandates with the economy: maintaining maximum employment, maintaining stable price levels, and maintaining moderate, long-term interest rates. It’s important to remember that the Fed cannot directly control employment, inflation, or long-term interest rates. Rather, it uses a number of tools at its disposal to influence the availability and cost of money and credit. This, in turn, influences the willingness of consumers and businesses to spend money on goods and services. For example, if the Fed maneuvers shortterm interest rates lower, borrowing money becomes less expensive, and people may be motivated to spend. Consumer spending may stimulate economic growth, which may cause companies to produce more products and potentially increase employment. When shortterm rates are low, the Fed closely monitors economic activity to watch for signs of rising prices. On the other hand, if the Fed pushes shortterm rates higher, borrowing money becomes more expensive, and people may be less motivated to spend. This may, in turn, slow economic growth and cause companies to decrease employment. When short-term rates are high, the Fed must watch for signs of a decline in overall price levels.
state. This year we are planning on having a virtual education presentation live from the Elk Center in Elk County with ”Hands On” items involving Elk sent to us for this program. Yes, family is important. We all witnessed the frustrations of the pandemic. Those of us who love being in nature and enjoying the outdoors found an outlet in being in the outdoors. Our club weathered the storm with virtual and safe health checks live meetings. We witnessed many new members who approached our club because of our reputation of being Family Oriented. Last year we turned “60” and because of a threat of a new variant and possibly not having an attendance worthy of a special celebration postponed our special outdoor anniversary get together. We have firmed up a date of September 17th for that celebration and have tentatively scheduled a caterer for a “Pig Roast” with the trimmings for that day. The Pig Roast will be for members
Supervise and Regulate The Fed establishes and enforces the regulations that banks, savings and loans, and credit unions must follow. It works with other federal and state agencies to ensure these financial institutions are financially sound and consumers are receiving fair and equitable treatment. When an organization is found to have problems, the Fed uses its authority to have the organization correct the problems. Financial System The Fed maintains the stability of the financial system by providing payment services. In times of financial strain, the Fed is authorized to step in as a lender of last resort, providing liquidity to an individual bank or the entire banking system. For example, the Fed may step in and offer to buy the government bonds owned by a particular bank. By doing so, the Fed provides the bank with money that it can use for its own purposes. Banker for Banks, U.S. Government The Fed provides financial services to banks and other depository institutions as well as to the U.S. government directly. For banks, savings and loans, and credit unions, it maintains accounts and provides various payment services, including collecting checks, electronically transferring funds, distributing new money, and receiving and destroying old, worn-out money. For the federal government, the Fed pays Treasury checks; processes electronic payments; and issues, transfers, and redeems U.S. government securities. Each day, the Fed is behind the scenes supporting the economy and providing services to the U.S. financial system. And while the Fed’s duties are many and varied, its focus is to maintain confidence in banking institutions. The
content is developed from sources believed to be providing
accurate information.
The
information in this material is not intended
as tax or legal advice. It may not be used for the purpose of avoiding any federal tax penalties.
Please consult legal or tax professionals for specific information regarding your individual situation. This material was developed and produced by FMG Suite to provide information on a topic that may be of interest. FMG Suite is not affiliated with the named broker-dealer, state- or SEC-registered investment advisory firm. The opinions expressed and material provided are for general information, and should not be considered a solicitation for the purchase or sale of any security. Copyright 2021 FMG Suite.
This article was submitted by Bob Podraza of Robert James Investments at 1313 West Broad Street, Quakertown. He can be reached at 215-583-5013 or at robertjamesinvestments.com
and their “Families.” We hope to have special guests, special live music, games, and the possibility of BYOB (Beer) strictly for Adult Beverages. (It is allowed in our BI-Laws to have one such an event a year.) This “Picnic” will be a test to see if we can have such an event more periodically as we had in the in the Past. The Pig Roast is one more family event we hope to add to our list of such events. Lastly I wan to mention the most important “Family Event” that our club participates in. We supply ever-large number of complete Thanksgiving Dinners to local area families every year. I entered our new clubhouse, which is available for rental for family events, last fall and was overwhelmed by the food that was arranged on quite a few tables, waiting for the last donations to arrive. I can imagine many boxes were filled to the brim so that less fortunate could have a wonderful “Family Thanksgiving Dinner.” ~ Dick Helm
14
• Upper Bucks Free Press • April 2022
Employment Opportunities
Biagioli Construction - Laborer/ Helper Wanted For Remodeling Looking for a self motivated person. Experience not necessary, willing to train the right individual. Must have reliable transportation. Jbiagioli5775@gmail.com Spor’s General Store - Hiring various positions, ages 15 & up. bspor@sporsgeneralstore.com or stop in the store at 22 W. Broad Street,Trumbauersville New Vitae Wellness & Recovery Seeking PCA/MT, Cooks, Drivers, Maintenance Asst at our Quakertown locations. Signon bonus up to $1,000! Shift differential for 2nd & 3rd shift! Call 610-928-5246 or apply at NewVitaeWellness.com/careers. Classic Hair Designs - Salon and spa seeking part-time experienced massage therapist and Saturday receptionist. Flexible hours and pleasant working environment. Send resume to classichairdesigns1@gmail.com Gutter Guys - Now Hiring Full Time Positions for Installers and Estimators. Call 215-996-9976 The Proper Brewing Co - Hiring Dishwasher, Host, Cooks, and Bartender. Must be available weekends. Contact: kris@ theproperbrewing.com or stop in at 117 W. Broad Street,Quakertown
Professional Tree Care & Landscaping - Full time ground worker’s position available. Must have current license and reliable transportation to our location in Quakertown PA. Must have chainsaw experience, able to use a chipper and drive a full size pick up. Start right away. Call 215-804-8208 Ample Electric - We are looking for an exoerienced electrician to perform residential and commercial projects. Interested, send your resume to ampleelectric@gmail.com Quakertown Parks & Rec - K.I.D.S. Camp Counselors, Counselors in Training, Community Pool Lifeguards. CIT is volunteer position, others start at $11/hr. quakertownrec.com 267-372-7275, amiller@quakertown.org St. John’s Lutheran Church of Spinnerstown PA - Church Secretary position at welcoming church in Quakertown area; 12 hours a week at $12 an hour. Additional hours possible during church’s busy seasons; days/times negotiable. Duties include weekly preparation of church bulletins and reports, updating social media, producing monthly newsletter, answering phones, and other administrative tasks. Skill with Microsoft Office, Google Drive and common social media platforms required. Exemplary organizational, administrative and communication skills are essential, as is the ability to work as part of a team. Two professional references needed. Send inquiry and resume stjohnsspinnerstown@gmail.com.
“Success means doing the best we can with what we have. Success is the doing, not the getting; in the trying, not the triumph. Success is a personal standard, reaching for the highest that is in us, becoming all that we can be.” - Zig Ziglar
April 2022 • Upper Bucks Free Press •
15
Spring Has Sprung
We are anxious to go out and about in our gardens. In the spring the soil is usually wet and continuing to thaw. Resist the temptation to walk into your flower beds to do spring cleanup. Healthy soil has air pockets and applying pressure can destroy these pockets leading to compaction making difficult for seeds to germinate and push their way through the soil. If you need to be in your garden beds use a plank that spans the width of the bed.
Then, your weight is more evenly distributed with much less risk of compaction. Another important reason to leave the cleanup for late April, early May is to protect bees and butterfly chrysalids that overwinter in leaf litter and hollow stems. Once their food sources (blossoming trees) are available they will emerge. Often it is difficult to wait until the last minute to do cleanup depending on the size of your garden or for health reasons. Consider leaving a portion of your flower beds untouched. You will still be providing a safe place for beneficial to emerge. Visit tinyurl.com/y98y7utq for more info. Early Season Vegetables: Direct Sowing Seeds The seeds of many cold weather loving vegetables can be planted as soon as the soil is workable and the soil temperature rises to the optimal level for growth. To determine if the soil is workable, pick up a handful of soil and squeeze. If moisture drips or the soil clumps it is too wet and the seeds may not germinate. The soil should easily fall from your open hand
a bit crumbly. Soil thermometers are inexpensive and a great tool to have. They are available at garden centers, home improvement stores or online. Another way to determine soil temperature in your area is to log onto the Greencast/ Syngenta Soil Temperature link below and fill in your address with zip code. Keep in mind
that this will be an average and can fluctuate if large swings in weather patterns exist. Lettuce seeds can be planted in soil temperature as low as 40°. Spinach, onion sets, peas, and radishes can tolerate soil temperatures at 45°. Wait until soil temperature rises to 50° for beets and 55° to plant turnips, kale and carrots. Planting depth, seed spacing and row spacing will be printed on the back of the packet. Soil temp map: tinyurl.com/yfaqv943 Seasonal Classification of Vegetables: tinyurl.com/y8ujoctk Our home Garden/Watershed hotline is still available! Emails are being monitored by our trained Master Gardeners/Watershed Stewards remotely Monday thru Friday, but you may experience a delay in response. Good News! - Normal phone hours will resume on April 18th! You can call our Hotline 9-12 and 1-4 pm. 267-483-2020 Ask a Master Gardener/Master Watershed Steward Penn State Extension Bucks County Email: BucksMG@psu.edu Please mention that you heard about us in the Upper Bucks Free Press!
American Legion Post 242 Update April brings about rebirth of Mother Nature after the bleak cold months of winter. Hopefully the numbers associated with Covid-19 illness and deaths will continue to decline. We are busy preparing for the May 2022 Memorial Day Parade & Memorial Service. In the meantime we want to alert all members that we are holding a special “80’s Dance Night.” A DJ will provide the music so the patrons can enjoy the evening on April 9th, 2022 and catered food will be available as well. Call or stop in at the Post to find out registration details and be in on the fun! Speaking of dining out, your canteen has a special meal available on Friday evenings. Also every Second Sunday morning our “Sons” Branch serves delicious varieties of breakfast for your dining pleasure. Not known is that, at present, they offer a complimentary meal to any first responder. (Only to the person who actually is a police officer, firefighter, or Ambulance person.) Anyone accompanying them would have to pay. Regretfully we pass on to you a notice of a loss of a Past Post Commander-Ken
Williams. Charles Wismer mentioned that Ken was a member for 44 years. During his term as Post Commander, Ken strongly supported youth baseball activities and was instrumental in being part of the team here in town to start Community Day on the 4th of July. The last time I saw Ken he was driving a small vehicle during July 4th to the baseball refreshment stand. He spent many hours as a volunteer in the refreshment stand at the ballpark. Ken will be sorely missed by all! Speaking of Youth baseball! We are proud to say the Post is donating $3000.00 from the Youth Fund to various baseball functions. Two Thousand of those dollars is earmarked for new uniforms for the Quakertown Legion Team. We also recently wrote a check for $1000.00 for the nearby Veteran’s Facility to help the residents there. Both these checks were written from funds we receive from out 2 annual drawings. Charles Wismer mentioned that he was preparing the mailings for the spring drawing. Keep an eye out for your tickets in the mail. Always remember those who are serving to protect you and your freedoms! ~ For God & Country,Dick Helm
Dog Bites
Despite 12,000 years of living with dogs, they remain largely misunderstood by humans. According to the Center for Disease Control 4.5 million Americans are bitten by dogs each year. One in five dog bites result in injuries that require medical attention. Adult males are more likely to be bitten than women. Children from the age of 5 to 9 years are more likely to be bitten than adults. Most dog bites to children are from the family dog or from a familiar dog. The major cause for facial bites to children can be attributed to hugging and kissing the family dog. Supervision of interactions with dogs and children is a must! We often want to show love to our dogs the way that we show love to each other, through hugs and kisses. Many dogs can learn to accept and tolerate the hugging and kissing but few actually enjoy it. Every dog has an invisible bubble around them called their comfort zone. Humans have an invisible comfort zone, too. When conversing with another human there is a comfortable distance that we can tolerate say a good 3 to 4-foot distance away. Now how would you feel if they were talking to you just inches from your face? You might tolerate it
a few times but if they continued to do this you would tell them to please back off (a human growl). Dogs can’t say please but they communicate by growling along with body language. Learning to interpret your dog’s body language may help you understand what your dog is trying to tell you. A happy dog pants and wags her tail loosely. The signs of a fearful or anxious dog can be whale-eye (lots of white showing in the eyes), she may turn her head to avoid contact, ears pinned back or tongue thrust like a lizard. A dog that suddenly becomes frozen with no movement can be very dangerous. A dog bite can happen in 1/40th of a second! Most dogs don’t like being patted on top of the head, they just tolerate it. Try scratching or stroking the dog on the side of the neck, behind her ears or on her chest. Don’t include chasing or rough play like wrestling- or slap fight. Enrolling in a group training class is a great way to learn how to properly interact with your dog. Submitted by Marion C. O’Neil CPDT-KA, CTDI, owner and instructor for Molasses Creek Dog Training, LLC, Quakertown. She www.molassescreekdogtraining.com
16
• Upper Bucks Free Press • April 2022
Parents Wanting ‘Better’ In past articles I mentioned about my parents getting married in 1933 (the worst year of The great depression). How my dad and uncle kept the large group of people living at the farm in income for nonraised farm needs (mostly expenses other than food) by trapping along their stretch of the Tohickon and cutting and selling firewood. Yes surviving with a family of 3 at the start of WWII then having a child in the middle of the war (Me) during time of rationing. These events in their life were the reason that they constantly expressed and emphasized the American dream that was prevalent after the war. That dream was that these families had the opportunity in that period of our society to “Have their children be able to achieve better because the ability was there to do so.” Our parents experienced two crisis’s within a few years of each other that restricted their ability to “Follow their dream.” Surviving and providing for a family was their only priority. My parents did well! They not only provided but also gave us a family life that I will always cherish. I am proud to say that my 2 brothers and my sister were able to “Follow their dream” and raise families they are proud of. I am also glad that my parents were positive and showed concern for studies and doing our best that helped my in my ability to follow my dreams. The other night my wife and I decided to “Eat Out” after a busy day setting up for a Pa. Elk Banquet at Bear Creek instead of rustling something quickly at home. As it happened, it was a very busy week with Doctor’s Appointments, Church duties, and other early evening events. Yes, we ate out or brought home food three times in that week. This was unusual and when I looked back at it, it gave me the idea to write this article. Because of our parents, as many parents of the time, having to watch their spending, would have eaten out with our family of six
about double that amount of times (6) in a whole year! As my wife and I ate our meals or sandwiches those three times, I noticed that the other patrons with children had meals and special drinks with many of the meals left on the table half eaten. Back in the day, these occasions of “Eating Out” were so special that we planned ahead what we were going to eat and ate it all! If there were any leftovers, my mom would have it boxed and we brought it home. In seeing this I reminisced about the though of being able to eat out 3 times in one week. Do to our parent’s initiative to “Do better,” we were able to do this in our hurried week. We were able to travel to 44 states including Alaska. We were able to hunt in other states over 2 dozen times! We were able to own vacation properties in the mountains. Most of all we were able to devote many hours and some of our funds to help those in need or to preserve our heritage, outdoor areas, and precious wildlife such as the Pa. Elk. I looked over at the young family and wondered if they will be able to better themselves over what they currently have such as I accomplished. After the Second World War, United State experienced a growth and success story that I was fortunate to be a part of. My classmates of the Class of ’61 could go on to college if they wanted and many did. I am proud of their success stories. Many of us were able to be successful in our own way. Will the youth of today have the same ability as we did to achieve their dream and the wishes that their parents, as our parents did, That wish of course, is wanting for them “To Do Better.” I hope so. I try to encourage my nieces and nephews and their children in their endeavors. They certainly have the nucleus of education and fields of employment to do so. They also seem to have that initiative of their grandparent’s hopes and dreams to do better not only for themselves, but also for helping others. Dick Helm is a long time Quakertown area resident
and
regular
contributor
here
UBFP. Reach him at rbh9@verizon.net.
Immediate Job Openings, Training & Benefits. CHANGE YOUR FUTURE
Apply Today!
QNBbank.com /careers Equal Opportunity Employer Member FDIC
at
of WED. JUN. 15
FRI. JUL. 8
SAT. AUG. 20
FRI. JUL. 15
FRI. AUG. 26
TICKETS AVAILABLE ON
QUAKERTOWNEVENTS.COM
April 2022 • Upper Bucks Free Press •
17
Saying Goodbye to Terri We here at the Upper Bucks Free Press lost a formidable anchor and I lost a true friend on March 23. Terri Roger came into my life in 2012 after being downsized at her previous employer. She had been working with my wife, Lisa, at a local foundation for intellectually disabled children and adults at the time and as budgets were cut, so was she. My first thought was “Suckers!” I already knew what a jewel Terri was. Lisa couldn’t say enough about her organizational skills, her demeanor, her heart of gold when working with clients and fellow staff, and her problemsolving skills. Terri was the ‘go to’ gal who knew where things were, how to fix stuff that didn’t work, and who to get with to make things happen. And now I had her at UBFP. Having been already producing the paper for two years alongside my graphics business, I came to realize, as I often do, that this is a LOT of work. Too much work. It was a struggle coordinating advertisers, stories, submissions, and putting it all together on hard deadlines while also serving my graphics customers who also had their own deadlines for what I would produce. I had considered that despite the fact that I really enjoyed being that guy that “brought back the Free Press” (in some form, anyway), maybe I should just focus on doing graphics and chalk up the UBFP experience as time well served. That was until Terri got here. She dove right in and took the tiger by the tail. Actually, it was Snickers, the 25 lb office cat, whom she adored. She devised systems to keep track of things. She actually put stuff IN the file cabinets instead of just using them as places to pile papers and junk as I did. She used Excel, Quickbooks, Word, and her years of experience as a teacher, and then as an office administrator, to fill in my organizational and operational gaps. She would even hunt down customers who owed us money, taking no
prisoners. She was feisty and tenacious, and she did it all with a smile, a huge sense of humor, and incredible humility. Terri retired from working with me here last year having given 9 years of her all. Of course, she’d still pop into the office at all hours to use the computer. She still had the key, after all. And we did still have lunch on occasion. And I still would call her to ask her how she did this or that.
It is absolutely true that I probably wouldn’t have kept up the rat race of producing the Upper Bucks Free Press had it not been for Terri. Her dedication and friendship were truly priceless. I, like so many others whose lives she touched, will miss her greatly! Words cannot express how much. Thank you for everything, Terri! ~ Christopher Betz, UBFP Publisher
Math Extensions Empowering Accelerated Middle School Students BY GARY WECKSELBLATT Quakertown Community School District middle school students are developing incredible STEM-related projects as part of a new program called Math Extensions. Used for the first time at Strayer Middle School and the Sixth Grade Center, accelerated math students are able to pick a project of their own choosing and, collaborating with one or more classmates, set goals for the project, document their work with a design notebook and blueprint, write a rubric to score their performance, and make a video. “This is what this population of learners needs,” said Adam Smith, Teacher On Special Assignment at Strayer. “They have the freedom to choose and say what they want to learn about. It’s a self-directed learning opportunity that they wouldn’t normally have access to. It empowers them to have more control over their learning in the classroom, and gives them a sense of ownership.” An Extension Project Showcase was held on Monday, March 21st in the Strayer Gymnasium. Many parents and families are attended this open house. Math is a part of each project created, but STEM, language arts, science, social studies and a student’s creativity are also incorporated. Projects include: • Calculating spaceship trajectories: Use functions to model relationships between time and distance. • Creating a rollercoaster ride: Model realworld situations with nonlinear functions. • Crossing the Darien Gap: Use systems of linear equations to solve real-world problems. • Design your own skyscraper: Use transformations in architectural design. • Bridging the gap: Design and build a bridge that has a Strength to Weight ratio higher than 2,750 lb / g/lb. • Investigate DNA exonerations: Use linear equations to model real-world data.
• Not so Bored Game: Create a board game incorporating mathematical ideas and concepts from the current school year in order to advance throughout the game. • Make’em Go!: Design and create a moving vehicle that moves without using electric power • Fresh Kicks!: Design, engineer, and build a prototype of a shoe an athlete would wear while competing. “They are on task, and they know what their end goal is,” said Jacki Clymer, who teaches a Math Extension class and describes her job as taking more of a supportive role. “I’m enjoying the culture of the room. Everyone is trying to develop the best project. They’re the ones raising the bar.” Eighth-grader Matthew Hudson, the skyscraper designer, said Extensions gives students “the freedom and responsibility of adults. Go big or go home. Don’t hold anything back.” “It’s a really cool class,” said Eliana Galleo, an eighth-grader, and creator of Fresh Kicks!. “We have to think about the process from beginning to end. There’s a lot of planning involved.” Math Extensions was designed by QCSD’s Office for Teaching and Learning. Strayer Assistant Principal Zach Garger, who played a key role in the development, explained that Extensions “is a vehicle to help students take charge of their learning and support middle school math achievement.” Both Mr. Garger and Mr. Smith praised Chris Deily, the teacher leader for Extension training, for doing “a tremendous job of communicating, planning and supporting our teachers in getting this up and running.” “We’ve placed a lot of demands on the Extension teachers, and they’ve really come through in a way I’m very appreciative of,” Mr. Smith said. “They’re having the students take risks, trying something new and learning in ways they might not be used to. It’s been a learning process for all of us, a great learning experience that will make future years more successful.”
Members of the QCHS art club in front of a wall in the high school lobby they designed with sunflowers in support of Ukraine.
18
• Upper Bucks Free Press • April 2022
Grief and More Grief
As I shared two months ago, I lost my mother in September of 2021. I wrote in my last article how difficult it has been for me and how this grief and loss has put my life in a complete tailspin. I am doing my best to keep moving forward but I can’t lie it has been trying most days. I am often surprised by the amount of tears that I still shed sometimes on a daily basis. The loss is immeasurable and very unsettling for me. I understand what grief is and that it is a process however somehow, I was quite naive about how I thought I would be experiencing it in my life. What I have found is that I feel lost. My mother was such an important part of my daily life. I walk around sometimes trying to figure out what I am supposed to do. I am in the process of rebuilding my private practice because of all the time I took off in caring for my mother the past several years. It is not like I don’t have anything to do. Believe me, I have plenty to do around my house and at my office. The issue is that I can’t seem to find the motivation to start let alone complete a project. Everything feels so overwhelming to me. I find that I will drift in and out of memories of my mother. Some of the moments will drop me to my knees and I feel almost paralyzed by the deep sadness and loss and I can’t move beyond my
tears. Sometimes I am able to get up and work on simple tasks like laundry, preparing meals and basic surface cleaning. When I am in my office not seeing clients, I find myself either reading depending upon my mood or I am cleaning and organizing my closet and office space. This has been making me feel good. Getting back to work and seeing clients has also been very good for me. I love what I do for a living. I like being able to make a difference in my client’s lives. They say that giving to others lessens your grief because we are getting out of our own heads and being there for someone. It makes me feel more peaceful and centered. I am writing about my experience because grief is very personal and each of our processes are different. I feel it is so important for all of us to realize that we are human and that if you are grieving in any way and don’t feel supported in your grief, to know that you are not alone. What I have experienced is there are times when people in my life will minimize my pain; however, I have not let it stunt my grieving. I have embraced my grief. Grief is without a doubt a process and some of us need more time than others and that is okay. I am choosing to honor myself and my needs. My belief is, “that all persons are truly greater than they think they are.” Susan V. Brewer is a Certified Life Coach and Psychotherapist in the Upper Bucks County Area. She can be reached at 215-872-4219.
38th Annual Golf Classic
2022 Platinum Sponsor
EARLY BIRD SPECIAL...$135 PER GOLFER (If you register online by 4/1) Includes 18 holes of golf, full scramble format, golf carT, Snacks, beverages, breakfast and lunch.
JUNE
6
MONDAY
Macoby Run Golf Course
registration & Sponsorship Opportunities Available at www.ubcc.org/golf.
Think Local. Buy Local. Be Local.
April 2022 • Upper Bucks Free Press •
19
QCHS Art Club Shows Support for Ukraine Quakertown Community High School’s art club has decorated a wall in the school’s lobby in support of Ukraine. Students used posterboard, color paper, and oil pastels to create sunflowers, Ukraine’s national flower. The sunflower, or “soniashnyk,” has become a worldwide symbol of solidarity for the country and its people since the Russian invasion began earlier this month. “We’re hoping that students see the wall, see the flowers and think of Ukraine,” said
Mary Barbour, a junior. “There’s something beautiful about it. It may be a small thing in some ways but you never know what may have a positive impact.” The art club’s advisors, Laurie Christine, and Jim Moyer, proposed the idea to Principal Mattias van’t Hoenderdaal and he supported it. “I think it’s awesome,” he said. Mrs. Christine said there are 198 petals and 22 centers on the wall. “We’re sending hope and love to the people of Ukraine,” she said. “The kids are really excited about it.”
Members of the QCHS art club in front of a wall in the high school lobby they designed with sunflowers in support of Ukraine.
“Have more than thou showest, Speak less than thou knowest, Lend less than thou owest, Ride more than thou goest, Learn more than thou trowest, Set less than thou throwest. ” - William Shakespeare
Pennridge Middle School Student Wins Regional Spelling Bee, to Advance to National Competition Pennridge Central Middle School seventh grader Priana Khant was named the winner of the Scripps Bucks-Mont Regional Spelling Bee on Saturday and will move on to compete in the 2022 Scripps National Spelling Bee at the Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center in Oxon City, Maryland, on June 1 and 2, 2022. The National Bee will be broadcast on the ION television network and will be hosted by LeVar Burton. Priana bested 27 other competitors, correctly spelling “kaleidoscope” in the seventh round of the spelling bee, the official regional qualifier for students who live and attend school in Bucks and Montgomery Counties. She won the spelling bee at her home school with the winning word, “sardine.” Second and third place winners were Ethan Luginbuhl, a Pennridge North Middle School eighth, and Perkiomen Valley Middle School-West seventh grader Lily Shanaman, respectively. Priana won a week-long, expense-paid trip for themselves and one parent/guardian to the Scripps National Spelling Bee near Washington, DC during the week of
Memorial Day; a trophy; the Samuel Lewis Sugarman Award of a 2022 US Mint Proof set; a one-Year subscription for MerriamWebster Unabridged Online Dictionary; and a One-Year subscription to Britannica Online Premium. “We are thrilled to work with our community and educators around the region to provide this opportunity to students,” said Alan Malachowski, President of PSEAMideastern Region. “We are especially thankful for our team of volunteers who have worked diligently behind the scenes to bring the spelling bee back to an in-person format. Our students have worked so hard to get to this level of competition, and it’s great to have them back.” The regional bee is sponsored by the Mideastern Region of the Pennsylvania State Education Association (MER/PSEA), the Council for the Advancement of Public Schools (CAPS) Pennridge Community Education Foundation, Perkasie Rotary and Merriam-Webster Dictionary. CAPS is an initiative of MER/PSEA, founded to promote the success of Bucks and Montgomery County public schools.
Congratulations to Sal Marsala and family for reaching the milestone of 20 years of owning and operating Sal’s Pizza Randa in Quakertown. Sal expresses sincere gratitude to all of his friends, family, employees, and, of course, patrons for making his restaurant a success!
(left) Kieran (2) and Hayden (3) McTear enjoyed the sunny weather and all of the fun of the Upper Bucks Celtic Fest. (above) Kids enjoying a game of giant Jenga.
Champion Spellers (l-r) Lily Shanaman, Priana Khant, and Ethan Luginbuhl.
submitted photo