Memorial Obits

Information on our deceased classmates.

  Mitchell Stuart Ruch (1948-2018)

Mitchell Ruch was born on July 23, 1948 and died of an apparent heart attack on Nov 27, 2018. He was the middle son of Richard and Lila Ruch of Hatboro. Richard was 2 years older, Gary, 6 years younger. The boys spent their grade school years at Pennypack Elementary school. Their neighborhood around Loller Rd, Academy Rd and Crooked Billet was full of baby boomers. Oh, how Mitch loved the family home on Loller - the scene of many parties and get-togethers over the years, from summer picnics to New Year’s Eve parties. The Ruch family also spent many summer hours “down the shore” at Ocean City swimming and fishing. In high school, Mitch was a regular pool player at the Billiard Ball in Hatboro. If the activity involved sports, he was all in.

He played about 5 years of Little League. With Mitch as the catcher and a great hitter on the Rotary Club team, it was hard to beat. Bob Saldutti joined Little League when he and Mitch were 7 years old, and they became fast friends. In 1967, they enlisted together in a 2-year Navy program and served their enlistment aboard the USS Shangri La with VF-931. Mitch was a plane captain.

At the end of their service, the two friends went into a 12-year partnership in a 7-11 in North East Philadelphia. After they sold the franchise, Mitch worked as a salesman for Beckley-Cardy Textbook Company; and then moved on to H&R auto service where he worked until his death.

In October 1970, Mitch married Sheila McCrory, whom he had met while working in Philadelphia. They had two sons- Dan born in 1973 and Jeff, born in 1975. He was a hands-on dad, as his dad had been with him. Theirs was a household of fun and sports. Mitch and Sheila divorced in 1980.

He was later introduced to Terri Alosi …by her mother… at the racetrack! They married in 1989. Their son, Alex was born in 1990. They later divorced.

From all accounts by family and friends, Mitch Ruch will be remembered fondly as “a real character”, a loving family man, a fan of all sports, especially golf and horseracing. Even our yearbook had him pegged as “a constant comedian”.

Mitch was predeceased by his father and a granddaughter, Camille. He is survived by his large extended family, all living nearby: 2 ex-wives, with whom he maintained good relationships; his longtime companion, Kathy Joyce; his three sons and their families which included 3 grandchildren; his 2 brothers; and his elderly mother. And let’s not forget his Weimaraner, Bailey.

His funeral Service was held at Schneider Funeral Home and was well attended. His brother Richard spoke about his sense of humor and his loud voice which led to many dramatic entrances at parties and events. His son spoke about the discipline he instilled when they were young and the love and companionship they all shared as they grew older. EVERYONE mentioned his sense of humor.

In lieu of flowers, his family requested donations be made in his name to Shriner’s Hospitals for Children, 2900 Rocky Point Dr, Tampa, FL 33607.

 

 

 

JOHN CHRISTOPHER CAMARATA (1948-2002)

John Camarata was born in Philadelphia on March 25, 1948 to Jasper and Betty Camarata. He died of a heart attack at Park West Hospital in Knoxville, TN on March 14, 2002.

In high school John was active in football and the Drama Club, appearing in several plays.

After graduation, he studied 2 years at Mansfield University in Mansfield, PA, before joining the U.S. Air Force during the Vietnam conflict. Following his service, he attended Tennessee Wesleyan College where he was a staff photographer, and graduated in 1974.

After retiring from his work of many years with the Tennessee Valley Authority, he served as a faculty member at Tellico Plains High School. At the time of his death, he had been with the school for six years, teaching Computer Science, English, and GED classes. He was involved with Boy Scouts, had started a chess club, and was the computer expert on campus.

In the week following John’s death, the students and Faculty of Tellico Plains HS gathered to share memories of “Mr. C”:

With a heart as big as Texas, he gave everything he had every day”

When I felt sad or mad, Mr. C would make me laugh”

John is a person we are all going to have some real big memories about”

John was survived by his wife of 27 years, Jenny (Webb), sons Bart, and Christopher (Julie), his parents, sisters Bobbi and Gina, brothers Paul and Jim, and many, many friends in Tennessee.

Services were held on Friday Mar 15, 2002 and burial followed on Saturday at McMinn Memory Gardens in Athens. He and Jenny, who died in 2009, are buried side by side beneath a beautiful headstone.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 

 

 

 


HILDEGARD JEDE BORKOWSKI (1948-1999)

Hildegard Jede was born May 28, 1948 in Pfaffenhoffen, Germany.

In 1956, she arrived in the port of New York with her family (parents Alexander and Lydia, and brother Johann) aboard the ship “General WC Langfitt”. The family settled in Horsham.

Hilda came to Keith Jr High from Simmons Elementary school in 1960. In high school, she was involved with ticket, Spirit, and Christmas card committees, and volleyball. After graduation, she married Ray Borkowski (HH ’63) and together they ran Accu Print, a printing business. We have them to thank for many of our reunion booklets.

Over the years, she reported her hobbies and activities as typesetting, gardening, soccer mom, Girl Scout mom, YMCA gymnastic mom and reunion committee.

We lost her to breast cancer Jan 4, 1999, at the age of 50.

Hilda is shown in the group photo with the “Horsham Girls” which is what we like to call our perennial reunion committee. Happy, bubbly, kind, and generous. She was the real deal, and she is sorely missed.

Survivors included husband, Ray; son Michael (Cristina) grandchildren Michael & Ashley; daughter Heidi Kelly(Chris) granddaughter Harper; her brother and her mother.

She is buried in Whitemarsh Cemetery.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

                     

                     

ROBERT STANLEY SHINN (1948-2015)

Bob Shinn was born in Philadelphia on May 3, 1948 to Jacqueline and Stanley Shinn. He spent his childhood in Hatboro.In high school, he was one of our AV guys, basketball manager, and a member of the bowling team. He attended one year at Montgomery County Community College.
In 1969, he enlisted in the Air Force, and after his basic training, came back to Hatboro to marry Elaine Quinn of our class. They were stationed in Alexandria VA; Kessler AFB in Biloxi, Miss; and finally Clark AFB in the Philippines where their first daughter was born in 1972. (a second daughter was born in Hatboro in 1974)
Returning again to the Hatboro area after his military service, he worked in construction as a surveyor and estimator. In 1979, the family relocated to Quakertown, as Bob was employed by Eastern Prestressed Concrete in Hatfield.
In 1992, he and Elaine divorced. Bob married Trudy Hontz in 1995.
Over the years his interests included photography, camping, mountain biking, DooWop, Shar-pei dogs, and eventually his 9 grandkids.
 Bob was diagnosed with colon cancer in June 2008 and had surgery at that time. For the next seven years he valiantly fought the disease which had spread to a lung, and to his knee. Although he did have a few short remissions, he suffered a great deal towards the end. On April 24th, 2015 Bob passed away from Stage 4 metastatic colon cancer in Grand View Hospital in Sellersville. He was just shy of his 67
th birthday.
At the time of his death, he had been married to Trudy for 19 years. He was also survived by his mother; daughter Jennifer Muller(Steve); daughter Lisa Klitsch (Michael); step-son Thomas Hontz (Lori); brother Thomas; sisters Divya Botkin and Susan Broom; nieces and nephews; and those 9 beloved grandchildren.
A memorial service was held on April 30 at Naugle Funeral Service in Quakertown.
Memorial Contributions in Bob’s name were requested for the Upper Bucks County SPCA in Quakertown or to Operation Scarlet Shar-Pei Rescue in Lancaster.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

EDWARD EMIL ROESSLER (1949-1980)

Ed Roessler was born in Philadelphia on January 9, 1949 to Helga and Otto Roessler. He was the first of two sons with Gary being born in 1954. In 1963, the family moved to Hatboro. Throughout his life he always enjoyed playing baseball, softball, and whiffle ball. Ed played organized baseball thru the age of 15. After graduation he played softball in his local church league. His favorite position was centerfield. Ed was a serious Phillies fan for his entire life. As for football, he closely followed the Green Bay Packers and was a Bart Starr fan. As a bowling enthusiast, Ed participated for years in numerous leagues down at the old Willow Grove Bowling Alleys. He was a good bowler, and one of his teams won the championship.

He was drafted into the US Army and served from 1968 to 1970. Fortunately for Ed he served 19 months overseas in Darmstadt, Germany (near Frankfurt) in the Army Corps of Engineers. (HHC 547th). He was the only soldier in his entire company not to go to Vietnam. His Aunt and Uncle lived close to the Army base so he spent many weekends with them and that made his deployment much easier. In the service, Ed received a number of medals including an expert marksman medal with his M-16. He rose to the rank of Specialist E-5 in his two years with the Army. He did well during his service time and never had to face the dangers in Vietnam. After his return, he married Linda Wurst in 1971. They had three children.

On June 6, 1980, at the age of 31, Ed died of stomach and esophageal cancer. He is buried in Whitemarsh Cemetery. Unfortunately, the children were very young at his passing. Ed was 6, Carrie was 3, and Brian was only 1. Linda raised all three children on her own and did a beautiful job. All are now married and have 7 kids between them. Ed would be so proud of his 3 children and 7 grandchildren if he were alive today.

We would like to thank Ed’s brother Gary for supplying facts for this story and rounding up photos of Ed. His daughter, Carrie would like the class of 66 to know what a good father, husband, son, brother, and friend Ed was in his short lifetime. He has been missed.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

WALTER ALLEN DECOURSEY (1948-2005)

Walter DeCoursey was born on Dec 23, 1948. He was the only child of Walter C and Clara DeCoursey of Hatboro. Affectionately called “Corky” by his childhood friends, he carried the nickname throughout high school.
He was active in band, track, cross country and wrestling. (He was 1966 Buxmont champion at 103 lbs)
A good student, Walt was accepted into the Engineering School at Drexel University.

Tragically, while attending college, Walt overdosed on LSD and suffered irreparable brain damage. Unable to function in any meaningful way, he remained in the care of his parents in his boyhood home on James Rd for the rest of his life.

He died of cancer in 2005.

 

 

EDWARD DOBSON (1950-2015)

Ed Dobson was born on Dec 30, 1949. He moved with his family to Pennsylvania from Northern Ireland in 1964. He joined our class in the fall of 1965.Ed studied under the Scientific course and joined the soccer and wrestling teams.

After high school, he attended Bob Jones University and University of Virginia. At 23, he became dean of men at Liberty University. Several years later, he was named associate pastor of Thomas Road Baptist Church. When the Moral Majority was organized in 1979, Jerry Falwell named Ed to the board. In the years between then and 2000 he moved through a series of pastorates, editorships and Christian advisory positions. He was quite popular as a preacher.

Ed was diagnosed with ALS in 2000, and began producing a series of books and videos about the trials of living with the disease. His original diagnoses suggested a life expectancy of 2-5 years. Ed surprised everyone when he lived on for 15 years.

His story is easily accessed through the internet, including videos and tales of his religious life. He is most likely the most “Googled” of our 1966 classmates.

Ed died in Kent, Michigan on Dec 26, 2015. He was survived by his wife Lorna, 2 sons, one daughter, six grandchildren; and his sister, May.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

KEVIN R HARRIS (1949-2014)

Kevin Harris was born on Feb 3, 1949, and died on July 29, 2014.

In high school, he was active in Student Council, Debate Club, Yearbook, Spirit and Prom Committees. He ran cross country and managed wrestling for 2 years. Listed among our Senior Superlatives as “Most Conscientious”.
He attended Lafayette University for his undergraduate degree, Lehigh University for his PhD (in parasitology), and Jefferson Medical School (where he graduated first in his class). He completed his residency in Pediatrics at Jefferson and was the Chief Resident there.
Spending 11 years in the Air Force, Kevin retired a Major after being stationed and practicing in Omaha, NE for 4 years. He and his young family returned to the Abington area where Kevin joined Valley Pediatrics.
Kevin had a deep passion for learning, teaching and giving to others. As a professor of Biology at Adelphi University, he received a teacher of the year award – because he always had time for his students, day or night.
When time allowed, Kevin could be found indulging in his life-long passion of fishing.
In addition to his wife, Ann, Kevin was survived by his mother and step father, his sister Valerie, daughter Rebecca Clark (Charles), and son Brett (Katie). He also left behind his constant companion, his treasured dog, Ruby.
A funeral mass was held at Nativity of our Lord Church in Warminster. He is buried in Washington Crossing National Cemetery in Newtown.

In lieu of flowers, his family requested donations in Kevin’s name to Doctors Without Borders.

 

 

 

 

 

 

NANCY SIMKO LOUGHERY (1948-2011)

Nancy Simko was born in Philadelphia on April 13, 1948 to Anna and Lester Simko.

She attended Horsham Elementary School.

In high school, she was our class treasurer for three years, a member of the spirit committee, and an important member of the field hockey team. Among our Senior Superlatives she was voted “Typical Senior”.

After graduation, Nancy attended Peirce Junior College. In 1969, she married John J (Bud) Loughery Jr. They were married for 42 years and had 2 sons.

At the time of our 1981 reunion, she reported her occupation as homemaker/ mother. Her activities included camping, bowling, biking, and Warrington AA youth sports. In 1986, she was selling cosmetics, and added Casino gambling and watching her sons play football. In 1991, she was a manicurist and she had added skiing and golf to her sports hobbies.

On Sept 23, 2011, she died of breast cancer. She was 63.

She was survived by her mother; her husband; 2 sons- Jack Loughery III (Marni) and Michael (Adrienne); and granddaughters Lorna and Megan.

Services were held privately.

In lieu of flowers, the family requested donations in Nancy’s name to the Susan G Komen Breast Cancer Foundation.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

PATRICIA ANN CRAVEN AUCOTT (1948-1995)

Pat Craven was born in Abington on Dec 11, 1948.

In high school her activities were prom key committee, yearbook committee and bowling team. She is remembered for her bright smile and contagious laugh.

On May 23, 1969, she married Ron Aucott (N. Penn ’64)

 

At the time of our 20-year reunion in 1986, she had worked for PECO for ten years, and had moved on to Newtown Heating in Delaware County. Her two daughters, Stacy and Stephanie had been born in 1976 and 1979.

Pat loved her family time. They went skiing in the winter, and camping in the summer. Many happy hours were also spent on the beach in Seaside Heights, NJ.

Both Pat and Ron were people of faith, and their family were active members of the First Baptist Church in Newtown Square. Ron was a deacon, Pat a deaconess. She taught elementary age Sunday School.

Always enjoying children and teaching, in the 1990’s she was working in the main office of Rose Tree Media School district, followed by the job of special education teacher’s aide at Springton Lake Middle School in Media.

In 1989, she had been diagnosed with breast cancer. She was in remission for a time, but the cancer eventually returned and she died on July 8, 1995. At the time of her passing, the family had lived in Glen Mills for many years. Besides her husband and daughters, she is survived by her sister, Shirley of Horsham, PA.

Services were held at their home church in Newtown Square followed by burial in Montgomery Baptist Church Cemetery in Colmar, PA.

At the time of this writing (2016), Stephanie is married and the mother of 4-year old Gabe. Stacy is married and the mother of Charlie, age 7, and Leah, age 6.

Many thanks to daughter Stephanie, who supplied facts and photos for this story. We understand she has inherited Pat’s sweet, contagious laugh… which is a blessing indeed.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

LYNN ROSEMERY (1948-1998)

Lynn Rosemery was born at Abington Hospital on May 12, 1948.

She is remembered by our classmates as an artist and talented actress. In our Senior Superlatives, she was voted “Most Ingenious”. After high school, she attended Philadelphia College of Art and graduated with a degree in illustration.

At the time of our 1981 reunion, she was married, and living in New Jersey. She made her living as a painter, calligrapher and printmaker. In 1991, she was divorced, relocated to Montana, working as a hostess/dining room manager and doing her beautiful art on the side. (t-shirts and note cards)

Over the years, her hobbies included sailing, organic gardening and holistic health.

In 1986, she added Middle Eastern Belly dancing to her hobbies and performed at our reunion. In Montana, she became interested in Native American spiritual journeys.

She died of breast cancer on Jan 9, 1998 in Missoula, Montana.

She was survived by her younger brother, Keith and a son.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

JUERGEN W H SUMPF (1947- 1992)

Juergen Sumpf was born in Germany on Dec. 4, 1947. In 1955, his family left for the United States. They landed in New York and went on to Detroit where their sponsor was. After a year in Michigan, they moved to the Kensington area, and eventually to Hatboro in the mid-sixties.

In high school he was a talented soccer player, receiving all-Buxmont honors as a senior.

Juergen was drafted into the Army in 1967, and served 2 years in Vietnam. He returned having attained the rank of Sargent.

In a 20th reunion update in 1986, he had graduated from West Virginia Tech, married Donna, and had two daughters- Nicole and Danielle. His hobbies then included chess, cooking, and of course, soccer.

The family lived in West Virginia for 6 years, where Juergen taught drafting in the local high school. He loved teaching and his students loved him.

He also started a soccer league outside of the school, as there were no outside sports at the time. This was the first and it still continues today. All of the kids wanted to play and loved it. Many of the families didn’t have enough money for their children to play, but Juergen always found a way… even if he had to pay the fee himself. He did a great job for the county where they lived, and most important, a great job for those kids.

They briefly ran a private club in a different part of the state, but that did not work out for them. They moved back to Lansdale, where he became very sick, and passed away on October 7, 1992 at the age of 44. His ashes were put into the ocean, per his wishes: “that way I may end up back in Germany, where I was born”.

His daughters were just 13 and 16 at the time of his death. There are now two grandchildren- Madison (19) and Justin (15). Both daughters and both grandkids played soccer. Justin currently is on the Deep Run Sports traveling soccer team.

Many thanks to Donna Sumpf for the information and pictures she supplied. In her letter she always referred to him as “Juergen”, rather than “Jerry” as we knew him in high school. I have chosen to do the same.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

THOMAS WILLIAM WHYNE (1948-1995)

Tom Whyne was born on September 29, 1948 to Thomas and Vivian Whyne of Ashland, Schuylkill County, PA.

In high school he was involved with Student Council, drama club, and spirit committee. He played on the baseball and basketball teams. In our senior superlatives, he was voted “Best Looking”.

After graduation, he attended Auburn University.

On June 21, 1975 he married Lynda Weaver. Their daughter, Dana was born in 1978, and son, Eric in 1980.

Tom was living in Boynton Beach, Florida at the time of his death. On July, 15, 1995, he passed away from Huntington’s disease. He was 46 years old. Huntington’s in a progressive degenerative neurological disease. His was a long battle.

He was survived by his wife, children aged 16 and 17, his parents, and his sister Karen Sweeney.

Services were held at Hospice by the Sea in Boynton Beach. A reception for family and friends followed the service in Tom’s home. His body was returned to Pennsylvania for burial in Christ Church Cemetery in Fountain Springs.

In lieu of flowers, those who wished were directed to make donations to Hospice by the Sea.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

LINDA MARIE ZIEBA SHELLEY (1948-1990)

Linda Zieba was born on April 24, 1948 in Kingston, Rhode Island to Henry and Lorraine Zieba.

In high school, she was a member of the Spirit Committee, FSA, Art Club, Dance Committee, and Drama Club. She is remembered as happy, pretty and always ready for a party.

After high school, she attended Dover Business College in Clifton, New Jersey, graduating in 1968.

Linda married Alan Shelley (HH ‘65) in 1968 and they made their home in Doylestown.

In 1971 their son, Alan Jr was born, followed by Ryan, Kyle, and finally a daughter Kyra. Linda was busy as a homemaker and mother. She was a volunteer at Kutz Elementary School in Doylestown as a room mother and worker for fund-raising events.

On March 29, 1990, Linda was involved in a fatal automobile accident in Warrington.

A mass of Christian burial was said on April 2, followed by her burial in Doylestown Cemetery.

Besides her husband and children (aged 12-19), Linda was survived by her parents and a brother.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

DENNIS J KWEDDER (1947-2014)

Dennis Kwedder should probably be listed as a “guest” departed classmate. He lived in the Hatboro area for years, and attended junior high with us, although he did not graduate here in 1966. He was known as a friendly, happy-go-lucky guy who liked to “push the rules” a bit.

Dennis was born on March 7, 1947 in Philadelphia. His parents were Eleanor and Victor Kwedder. He enlisted in the U S Army during the Vietnam War. Years later, he was a truck driver in the mail service industry.

He was living in Hereford, Berks County when he died on October 8, 2014 at the age of 67.

He had a lifelong love of riding motorcycles and a great love of family.

Survivors include his sister Evelyn Santese; his daughters Dawn Sparango (Bill) and Denese Tiedeman (Larry); three grandchildren and many cousins, nieces and nephews.

Services were held on Oct 18 at the James Baskwill Funeral Home in Hatboro. Burial followed at the Pine Grove Memorial Park in Warminster.

THOMAS EDWARD DILLON JR (1947-1998)

Thomas E “Doc” Dillon Jr was born in Germantown on October 3, 1947.

He died at his home in Aston, PA on June 12, 1998. He was 49.

He was a veteran of the U S Army, serving as a medic in the Vietnam War. He was awarded the National Defense Service Medal, the Vietnam Campaign Medal, the Combat Medical Badge, the Vietnam Service Medal, and a Purple Heart.

Tom was a member of the 25th Infantry Division Association’s fifth Infantry Chapter and was active in its annual reunions.

He was a member of St Joseph’s Catholic Church.

Tom was a driver for UPS for 19 years, retiring on disability in 1998.

Survivors include his daughter Pamela, sisters Margaret and Elizabeth, nieces, nephews and many friends.

A Liturgy Outside Mass was held at White-Luttrell Funeral Home in Aston, followed by burial in Arlington National Cemetery.

Memorial contributions in Tom’s name were requested for the 25th Infantry Association in Swanton, MD.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HARVEY ROBERT CLEMENS (1947-1996)

Bob Clemens was born on December 6, 1947 to Warren H and Marian Clemens of Hatboro.

In High School, he was enrolled in Montgomery County Area Technical school to study electronics. He attended classes there every morning, and as the yearbook says, he “came into the parking lot at 11:15 on two wheels” (on his motorcycle).

He was a friendly guy who loved to hang out at the Billiard Ball with the guys.

He died in a traffic accident June 9, 1966, just days before graduation.

The accident was reported as follows: Robert Clemens and Robert Perks, both 18, were riding a motorbike south on York Road and a truck, traveling north on York Rd was making a left hand turn into Street Rd. The two vehicles collided and both boys were thrown from the cycle. The mishap occurred at the height of the evening rush hour and police had their hands full directing traffic. Perks was rushed to Abington Hospital by ambulance where he was admitted with a broken spine and broken jaw.

Clemens was pronounced dead at the scene.

He was survived by his mother and two sisters.

Services were held at the Decker Funeral Home on June 13.

Bob is buried in Trappe, PA in the Augustus Lutheran Church Cemetery beside the graves of his parents.

In Lieu of flowers, it was announced that contributions could be sent to the H. Robert Clemens Scholarship fund in care of the Bank of Old York Road in Willow Grove.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

THOMAS G FILER (1948-2010)

Tom Filer was born on November 18, 1948, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

In High School, he was a member of the track team.

He kept in touch throughout the years of our class reunions. In 1976 he was living in Horsham with his wife and four children. Tom’s occupation was a trucker.

In 1986, he and his wife from his second marriage were living in Perkasie with five of their children. Tom was a driver, volunteer fireman and EMT for Perkasie Fire Co. and Ambulance.

In 1988-89, Tom was one of four Perkasie Fire Fighters honored by the Bucks County Fire Chiefs Association for his duty during the “Great Perkasie Fire” on June 26, 1988. He also received the Burpee Fire Services Award from the Central Bucks Chamber of Commerce and The Pennsylvania House of Representatives Citation. Tom sustained injuries during the fire which required medical attention.

In 1991, while still living in Perkasie, Tom worked as a chimney sweep with his own business, Trouble Sooters Chimney Service. In addition, he worked as a medic at Wild Water Kingdom in the summer, as well as trucking.

Tom had many interests and enjoyed his time with his children and grandchildren. He coached their soccer and softball teams; he never said “no” when asked to don the Santa Suit; he loved days spent on the lake in the canoe. Pool league was one of his “his time” activities. His most prized possession was his 1969 Triumph, which he was restoring at the time he passed.

He always kept his mind active with puzzles, and cryptograms were his favorite. Tom studied American Sign Language. He shared his knowledge and love of history and gardening with his children and grandchildren.

On Nov 3, 2010, 15 days shy of his 62nd birthday, Tom died of a non-recoverable heart attack at Doylestown Hospital.

He was survived by five of his children, a stepson, eight grandchildren and two sisters. He was pre-deceased by his parents, two siblings and a son.

His memorial service was held on Nov 7, 2010 at Naugle Funeral Home, Quakertown.

Many thanks to his daughter, Colleen for supplying information and photos.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

ROGER H DEMONTIER (1947-1986)

Roger DeMontier was born June 10, 1947.

During high school he taught swimming at the YMCA, loved scuba diving, and planned a career in Marine Biology.

He attended the University of Miami at Coral Gables, majoring in history. Roger made the swim team in his freshman year and competed for 2 years. At the end of his sophomore year (June 1969), he married Paulette LaPointe. The newlyweds lived in a beachside apartment on Key Biscayne. They were both water people, and soon bought a small Sunfish sailboat. They would anchor on the mud flats off the tip of Cape Florida and go snorkeling, scuba diving and spearfishing. Next they bought an old, decrepit, Chris Craft power boat to rehab, which allowed them to sail further afield. Eventually, they purchased a 51’ Matthews twin diesel boat that they lived on in various marinas around the Miami area for about 4 years. More than once they took the boat over to the Bahamas and often went down to the Florida Keys to go diving.

To support their boats, Roger worked as an engineering draftsman designing streetlamps, sewer grates, and such for the City of Miami and Dade County. Paulette was an industrial biochemist, and both of them were certified Scuba instructors.

When they got tired of living on the boat, they moved to an apartment in Coconut Grove, where they eventually drifted apart. In March 1986, he and Paulette divorced.

While visiting his sister in Hawaii in June of 1986, Roger apparently drowned while snorkeling about 200 yards off shore near Shark’s Cove on the north shore of Oahu. As he was an excellent swimmer, authorities explored the possibility of his having succumbed to a diabetic coma while diving.

He was survived by his sister, Carol and a nephew. Paulette’s brother, who supplied much of this information, believes his ashes may have been scattered at sea, which would have been appropriate.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

KENNETH JOHN HOOVER (1948-2015)

Ken Hoover was born on Aug 25, 1948 to Jack and Jane Hoover.

He is remembered for his easy smile and good looks.

Always a snappy dresser, it is no wonder Ken worked as a salesman in the fashion industry. He was good at what he did, hard-working, and very professional. Ken traveled quite a bit. It was said of him that “he knew more about woman’s fashion than most women”. His beautiful wife, Wynn was his model.

He and Wynne had two sons- Todd born in 1974 and Chad, born in 1980.

At the time of our 1991 reunion, he reported his activities as enjoying the beach, traveling, and gardening. That was the last time we heard from him.

He died on Sunday, Feb 22, 2015 in Lebanon, Virginia.

He was predeceased by his parents. Survivors include his sons; two grandchildren; sister Betty Jane Born, and brother David Hoover.

Services were held on March 7, 2015 at the Lebanon Memorial United Methodist Church in Lebanon.

In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts were requested to the church in Ken’s memory. Each gift would help the recovery ministry that benefited Ken.


 


 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

BARRY M JANDA (1948-2015)

Barry Janda was born on April 13, 1948.

High School classmates remember him as a pleasant, quiet guy with a dry sense of humor.

Retiring after 45 years as a scheduler-printer for Quad Graphics, he enjoyed his retirement by fishing, golfing, and watching sports.

Barry was a member of the Bristol Elks Lodge #970 and the Bensalem Citizen’s Club.

He died suddenly on Sunday Feb 22, 2015 at Aria Health - Torresdale Division surrounded by his loving family.

He was 66 years old.

Survivors include his wife of 33 years Helen Janda (nee Price); two step-children, Carol Moser and John Williams; 5 step-grandchildren, and 2 step great grandchildren.


 

Funeral services were private.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

WILLIAM JAMES REID (1947-1979)

Bill Reid was born in Philadelphia on October 30, 1947.

Bill was an excellent cook, starting with his after-school restaurant job at the Carriage House restaurant in Hatboro. He worked there full time all through high school.

A chubby guy with a great sense of humor, Bill liked nothing better than hanging out with his friends- at the Billiard Ball, at Burdick’s, or behind the Hatboro Pool. He was a loyal friend who was known as the guy who would give you the shirt off his back if you needed it.

Card playing at his place, or Tom Dillon’s house; a quick game of touch football behind the Robert Bruce Apartments, or an impromptu party, Bill was always up for a good time.

His crazy sense of humor was legendary. He arrived to Study Hall one time with a blow up doll.

He died in Buckingham in February 1979. Many high school friends attended his funeral.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

ROBERT HABLETT (1948- 1966)

Bob Hablett was born on May 15, 1948. His parents were Thomas H and Edith Hablett.

In high school, he played baseball, football, and basketball. Bob was also a member of the spirit committee, and the art club.


 

He died in June of 1966 shortly after graduation.

 

 

 

 

 

DARLENE STONE CALDWELL (1948-2006)

Darlene Stone was born on April 8, 1948 at the U S Naval Base Coco Solo in Panama, near Panama City. Her parents were George and Velma Stone. In December of that year, at the age of 8 months, she arrived by ship in New York with her mother, sister Terry, and brother George.

She attended Horsham Elementary School with our classmates, but started high school at Villa Joseph Marie High School. (a private Catholic HS in Southampton). However, she was back at HHHS for her junior and senior years.

Darlene loved to dance and took tap and jazz lessons as a young teen. She also loved to sing, and would have loved to be able to sing or act professionally.

Shortly after graduation, Darlene married Bob Caldwell, a Navy man. In 1967 their son, Robert Jr was born. A daughter, Rosalind and a son, Ronnie followed.

At the time of her death, on July 14, 2006, she was divorced and living in Hatboro. She was survived by her three children.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HARRY C SMITH JR (1946-2013)

Harry Smith was born on September 27, 1946

After high school, Harry worked as a roofer.

Variously living in Hatboro, Warminster, and eventually Lansdale. Harry was often seen around town on his bicycle, as, early in his career, he lost his license to DUI.

Despite his problems with alcohol, Harry remained a pleasant guy until his death. Folks liked him in high school, and they liked him at the end.

He died on Dec 23, 2013

 

 

 

 

 

 

RUFUS J BLANDING JR (1948-2003)

Rufus Blanding was born in Horsham on Feb, 27, 1948.

He was the brother to Clara Bell (HH-’59) and Martha Blanding. He attended Horsham Elementary School.

In high school, he played football and spent one year on the track team.

He died on Aug 2, 2003 in Reading PA, where he had lived for over 25 years.

 

CHARLES IRA BERRIDGE (1948-1990)

Charlie Berridge was born in Doylestown Hospital on May 27, 1948 to Ira and Helen Berridge. He attended Simmons Elementary School.

In high school he was on the baseball and winter track teams.

Charlie married Sally Houseal (UM ’67) in July of 1968, and 2 weeks later was drafted into the Marines. He completed Special Ops training in Ft Benning GA where he graduated (at the top of his class) as a Black Beret in 1969. While in Vietnam, he was a radio operator attached to a Korean Marine Unit, and spoke Korean. He returned to the states at the end of his tour having attained the rank of Sargent. Charlie was always proud to have been a Marine!

Following his military service, he received an associate degree from Montgomery County Community College. He and Sally eventually moved to the Norristown area. After working for a charter bus company for a few years, he landed a job with SEPTA.

At the time of our 1986 reunion, he listed his hobbies as tennis, golf, and home remodeling. Perhaps it should have read: GOLF, GOLF, GOLF. As Charlie lived for golfing. They golfed as a family, and he golfed whenever he could. In 1990, after hitting balls for a few hours, he complained of chest pains. At the hospital they gave him the option of angioplasty or open heart surgery to correct his blockage. Charlie chose angioplasty because he could get back on the links sooner. Less than a week later, on June 5, 1990 he died of a heart attack.

At the time of his death, he was the chief Automotive Officer of the SEPTA Bus Division, overseeing nearly 1,000 employees. The Wyoming Ave shop was renamed (and remains to this day) the “Charles I Berridge Shop”.

He and Sally had 2 children- Charlie (1969), who is the father of Lizzie; and Kelly (1975), who is the mother of Evan and Sophie. How Charlie would have loved to know these three special grandkids!

Charlie is entombed, at heart level, in a mausoleum at St Patrick’s Cemetery in Norristown.

Many thanks to Sally Berridge, his widow, for supplying this information and photos. “she loved him then, and she loves him still”.
 

 

 

GEORGIA MAURER PRENTICE (1948-2016)

Georgia Maurer was born in Philadelphia on April 12, 1948 to George and Eleanor Maurer. The family moved to Horsham when she and her sisters were in elementary school.

She died on Feb 26, 2016 at the Bob Fryer Family Inpatient Center in Mt Joy, PA after a six-year illness.

In high school, she is remembered as ambitious, hard-working, and VERY organized. She was a member of the National Honor Society, Debate Club, and Student Council. Her committee activity included Spirit, Thanksgiving Dance, Yearbook, and Prom.

For three years she was a member of our girls’ basketball team spending two seasons on Varsity.

After high school, she attended Pierce Junior College in Philadelphia, where she earned an associate’s degree.

On December 14, 1968, Georgia married Michael N. Prentice. At the time of her death, they had been married for 47 years.

She was employed as an administrative assistant by Proctor and Gamble in Hatboro for nearly 15 years and by Weyerhaeuser in Ephrata for over 10 years.

Her hobbies included reading and solving crossword puzzles. She was a big fan of Indy car racing, traveling, and camping.

In addition to her husband, she is survived by her daughter, Paige, wife of Jeffrey Formicone of Reinholds, PA; her son, Eric husband of Andriana Prentice of Perkiomenville; two grandchildren and a sister, Shirley Miller of Perkasie.

She was predeceased by her parents, and her sister Eleanor Tuttle.

A memorial service was to be held at a later date. Arrangements were made by the William P Spence Funeral Services. In lieu of flowers, the family asked that memorial contributions in her memory be sent to Hospice and Community Care, in Lancaster PA 17604.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  KENNETH BRUCE SAUER SR (1949-2017)

Ken Sauer was born in Sellersville on Jan 3, 1949 to Jean and Ernest Sauer. During high school, he joined the Naval Air Reserve where he served for 6 years.

In 1968, he married Marie Hoare, a 1967 graduate of Archbishop Wood HS. In 1972 their daughter, Colleen was born, followed by Ken Jr in 1975. The Sauer Family were avid campers, and to that end, many happy trips were made to Otter Lake in Canada, the Poconos, and Disney World Campground.

During his working years, Ken held various management positions in the heavy equip industry. In 1985, he enrolled in night school at Delaware Valley College heading for a BA in Business Administration. Sometimes holding down two jobs, he spent the next 10 years getting his degree. (graduating Magna Cum Laude)

Ken was crazy about Hatboro-Horsham, and he and Marie attended every reunion. He was a member of the reunion committee for several years, hosting a few of the meetings at his home and working on 1991 and 1996.

The Sauers lived in Chalfont for 25 years, and North Wales for 16. Because Ken had happy memories of childhood summer vacations on a lake in Connecticut, he dreamed of eventually retiring to a place on the water. Marie’s sister’s family lived on Smith Mountain Lake in Virginia, and Ken and Marie loved the area. They moved there from Pennsylvania in 2009, and he retired a few years later.

Ken was extremely happy in his retirement. He spent a lot of time on the lake, did plenty of fishing, doted on his 7 grandchildren, and engaged in numerous activities involving helping those in need. A man of deep faith, Ken was a Stephen minister through his church; a position to counsel, encourage, and support people with challenging life situations. As an accountant, he worked through the Christian Ministry to advise and assist those struggling with their finances.

Active and healthy, Ken enjoyed playing tennis. After one game in 2014, he experienced unusual back pain. His doctors discovered a large tumor in his lung. He had surgery immediately, followed by both chemo and radiation treatments. The cancer seemed to have been beaten, and he was in remission for a time, but in 2016, it returned. After more chemo, more radiation, and 2 courses of experimental drugs, Ken lost his courageous battle on July 25, 2017.

In October 2016, our classmates were thrilled that Ken and Marie were able to come up for our 50th reunion. It was the last social function he would attend. Although very weak, he rallied for a few days and had a grand time that night; reconnecting with old friends and receiving encouragement and well-wishes all around.

On August 5, a memorial service was performed at his home church, Bethlehem United Methodist in Moneta, VA. A large gathering of family and friends attended. His eulogy was written and delivered by Ken Jr. (he has the same confidence and rock-steady demeaner as his dad).

Many thanks to Marie for providing the information and photos. She had a wonderful 48-year marriage to this man and was happy to share.

 

 

 

 

  JOHN MONTEITH (1948-2018)

  John Monteith, one of five children born to Wilson and Helen Monteith, came into this world on November 1, 1948 in Philadelphia. He spent his childhood in Horsham.

In high school he was involved with all things theatrical- three years of drama club, president of Thespians (which is essentially the honor society of dramatics), band, chorus and spirit committee. Among our senior superlatives, he was chosen (along with Lynn Rosemary) as “most ingenious”. John is remembered as funny, warm and kind. With a mind that raced from one clever thought to the next, he was a master of impressions and improvisation. Drama club members remark that when Lynn and John took the stage and asked for improv suggestions, it was magic. Everyone knew he was destined for the big stage somewhere.

Three years in the drama club placed him in all of Mrs. Little’s productions, beginning with Caine Mutiny Court-Martial in the fall of 1963 and finishing with our Jr-Sr play, Gentlemen Prefer Blondes.

His interest and pet project outside of school was his amateur production company, 3-M Studios. One of the movies he made was a 1920’s gangster-type flick complete with machine guns, murder, and speakeasys. Many of his drama club friends were also involved.

John went on to attend Boston University, where he earned a BFA in acting. After graduation, he joined the casts of several improv groups. Initially, he performed with The Proposition in Cambridge and New York City, followed by the Toronto company of Second City.

Upon his return to the states, he partnered with Suzanne Rand, forming the critically acclaimed comedy team of Monteith & Rand. Starring in their own Broadway show in 1979 and, years later, in their own TV series, they were regulars on the major TV talk shows, including those of Merv Griffin and Johnny Carson. He and Suzanne went on to perform for both Democratic and Republican administrations and even once for the Supreme Court.

John taught improvisation in New York at the well-known Herbert Berghof Studios for 25 years where he was known by his students as humble and modest, and a patient teacher. All throughout his professional career he wrote, directed or acted, and he spent most of his adult life in New York City. At the time of his death, he was living in Jersey City.

Surviving are his siblings, Michael, Patricia, and David; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Maureen. Services were held on Jan 27, at St. Catherine of Siena Church in Horsham. John is buried at Whitemarsh Memorial Park.

 In lieu of flowers, the family asked that memorial contributions be made to The American Cancer Society, 110 W. Laurel Ave., Cheltenham, PA 19012.