Currently viewing the category: "Obituaries"

September 27, 1939 – February 25, 2024

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Norman Elsworth Elsbree Jr., who peacefully left this world on February 25, 2024, at the age of 84. Norman was born on September 27, 1939, to proud parents, Norman Elsworth Elsbree Sr. and Marjorie Eleanor Elsbree nee Mathies.

Norman was a loving husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, whose kindness and patience touched the hearts of all who knew him. He proudly served his country as a Veteran in the U.S. Army, where he received many accolades, including a Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, and the prestigious Presidential Service Badge and Certificate.

Norman is survived by his devoted wife of 61 years, Diane, his children, Norman “Rusty” and his wife Melinda, Kim and her husband Andy, along with his beloved grandchildren (Josh and his wife Lisa, Rachel, and Hannah and her fiancé Tyler, and his great-granddaughter, Naomi), and other beloved family members. He was anxiously awaiting the birth of his second great-granddaughter in June. He was preceded in death by his son, Brian; his granddaughter Jessica; and his cherished cat, Coco.

While in the Army, he was a communications specialist at the White House, serving under the Eisenhower, Kennedy, and Johnson administrations. Other than his pride for his family, this was one of his proudest accomplishments! After leaving the Army and White House, he was employed with the federal government at the Department of Energy until retiring in 1994.

A celebration of Norman’s life, complete with military honors, will be held on April 27, 2024 from 2:00-5:00 p.m., at Thurmont Grange #409, to honor his memory and the impact he had on all those around him.

His legacy of love, patriotism, and dedication will forever be remembered by those who had the privilege of knowing him!

June 25, 1949- December 6, 2023

Celebration of Life

Sunday, April 14, 1:00-4:00 p.m., Thurmont American Legion Hall

Light lunch, cash bar, music & memory-sharing

Gary Paul “Jake” Jagow, 74, of Littlestown, PA, passed away suddenly on December 6, 2023, from complications following emergency heart bypass surgery and RSV. That day, the angels recruited a new drummer for their heavenly rock & roll band.

Gary was born on June 25, 1949, in Niagara Falls, NY. He was the son of the late Victor Russel and Betty Louise (Wise) Jagow.

While at Thurmont High School, he kept the beat going as drummer for The Coachmen, a popular 60s rock & roll dance band, founded and managed by his father. After graduation in 1967, he began his career in radio at WTHU, when the station first went on the air. Gary then enlisted in the U.S. Air Force, where they were quick to recognize and utilize his radio talent. He worked for the Armed Forces Radio and Television Service while he was stationed in Greenland and Germany. After proudly serving his country, Gary returned home to continue his career at WTHU. He eventually went on to become a well-known radio personality with Frederick’s WFMD/WFRE stations. When syndication forever changed radio, Gary decided to change gears, to leave the studio confines for the freedom of the open road as a delivery driver for AmeriGas Propane.

Most recently after retirement, he was a Frederick County Meals on Wheels driver, where he loved all of his coworkers. He held a special place in his heart for the elderly folks he looked forward to seeing every day. His dedication and caring nature surely will be missed.

Throughout his work career, Gary continued to play drums or bass guitar in several prominent bands, including Don Barnes & The Countrymen and Full House.

Gary had a remarkably eclectic musical ear and enjoyed everything from rock, country, and jazz classics to German oompah and modern jazz. He also loved attending drum and bugle corps competitions. He volunteered in his younger years for a few weeks during the summer as a drum line assistant. He was also an avid animal lover, classic car enthusiast, and always enjoyed celebrating his family’s German heritage, especially during Oktoberfest season.

Gary is survived by his cherished life partner of 33 years, Harriette Mathews; his sister Gwen Leahy and husband Jerry of Wellsboro, PA; one nephew and niece; precious friends, Alban Little and Rocky Birely, plus countless other friends and band mates.

On January 26, 2024, Gary was inurned at Indiantown Gap National Cemetery with the full military honors he had earned and rightly deserved. Please join us as we celebrate his amazing life on Sunday, April 14, from 1:00-4:00 p.m., at the Thurmont American Legion.

Memorial donations may be made to Frederick County Meals on Wheels.

September 7, 1967 – February 29, 2024

Jerry E. Ferson, Jr., 56, of Thurmont, passed away on February 29, 2024, at Frederick Health Hospital in Frederick. He was the beloved husband of Patricia (Tomalewski) Ferson.

Born on September 7, 1967, in Sunnyside Washington, he was the son of Reverend Jerry E Ferson and Linda F (Radach) Ferson.

Jerry graduated from Lee University and worked as a sound engineer and videographer.

As a devoted husband and father, Jerry exemplified unwavering love and support for his family. He valued the moments spent with his boys, instilling in them integrity, perseverance, and kindness. He was a pillar within the Catoctin Youth Association (CYA) community. A leader and advocate, known for his love of football and commitment to the Thurmont youth. Throughout the years, Jerry’s involvement in youth sports included coaching, football coordinator, vice president of CYA Football, and a member of CYA Inc. He was the first one on the field on Saturday mornings for youth football and the last one to leave. No job was too small or insignificant. He was a constant encouragement for new coaches, and he would often help out or fill in until a permanent coach took over. On Friday nights, Jerry could be found in the high school announcers booth, recording the football and lacrosse games. Jerry will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and the entire youth sports community.

In addition to his wife and parents, Jerry is survived by his sons, Wayne and Wyatt Ferson; sister Lee Ann Ferson-Roehl and husband Mike. He is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews.

The family would like to thank the Thurmont community for the tremendous outpouring of support that they have received. Words cannot effectively communicate how humbled and moved they are by your expression of love for Jerry. The words of encouragement and memories shared has strengthened them through this difficult time.

A memorial service was held on Saturday, March 9, at 11:00 a.m. at the Thurmont United Methodist Church, 13880 Long Road, Thurmont.

January 9, 2006 – December 30, 2023

Lane Michael Miesner, affectionately known as “Bub,” was born on January 9, 2006, in La Plata, Maryland. He left this world on Saturday, December 30, 2023, at the young age of 17, at Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore, Maryland. Although his time with us was tragically cut short, Lane’s impact and legacy will forever be cherished in the hearts of those who knew him.

From a young age, Lane displayed a zest for life that was contagious. He radiated positivity and had an incredible ability to find the silver lining in every situation. Lane’s unwavering optimism fueled his boundless capacity to love and care for others. His love knew no bounds, and he readily shared it with everyone he encountered. Lane truly was a beacon of light in his community; he brought people together and his presence made a difference.

Lane attended Glade Elementary School, Walkersville Middle School, and Walkersville High School before joining Catoctin High School in 2023. During his time at Walkersville High School, he embraced the Unified Track Team, demonstrating his determination and commitment to teamwork. At Catoctin High School, Lane found another passion by becoming a member of the football team; proudly wearing the number 28 on his jersey.

Beyond academics and sports, Lane had a variety of hobbies and interests that brought him joy. He had an immense love for dancing and could always be found grooving to any music that filled the air around him. Whether it was belting out lyrics or appreciating melodies, Lane found solace in listening to music. Additionally, he enjoyed immersing himself in the virtual world of Roblox, where his creativity and imagination knew no bounds. Embracing nature was another favorite pastime, as he relished spending time outdoors, appreciating the beauty of the world. Riding on his dad’s motorcycle provided him with a thrilling sense of adventure that only intensified his zest for life.

He is survived by his parents, John and Elizabeth Miesner; sisters, Kira, Haven, and Brantley; grandparents, Thomas and Tammy Molino, Curtis and Tammy Turner, Michael and Elaine Miesner, Richard Jenkins, and Teresa Molino; great-grandparents, Thomas and Frances Wachter, Thomas Molino, Sr., and Terrance Myers; aunts and uncles, Devin and Angela Miesner, Robert and Amanda Workman, Emma and Stella Molino, Thomas Molino, III, Jake and Vanna Jenkins, and Justin and Angi Jenkins; and numerous cousins.

He is preceded in death by his grandmother, Sheila Jenkins; great-grandmother, Geraldine Myers; and great-uncle, Thomas Wachter, Jr., and aunt, Sarah Persell.

A visitation was held on Saturday, January 13, 2024, from 4:00 to 9:00 p.m., at Stauffer Funeral Home, 1621 Opossumtown Pike, Frederick, MD 21702.

As we mourn the loss of Lane’s bright presence in our lives, let us also celebrate the remarkable soul that he was. He touched our hearts in more ways than we can express and left an indelible mark on this world. His unrelenting optimism and boundless capacity for love will forever serve as a reminder to cherish every moment we have with our loved ones.

In honoring Lane’s memory, let us strive to live life as he did—with genuine kindness, relentless positivity, and a profound appreciation for the beauty that surrounds us. Though he may no longer be physically present beside us, Lane’s spirit will continue to shine brightly through the memories we hold close to our hearts.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Lane’s memory to the Catoctin High School Athletics Department, 14745 Sabillasville Road, Thurmont, MD 21788-1696 or to the Walkersville High School Athletics Department, 81 Frederick Street, Walkersville, MD 21793-8216.

Expressions of sympathy may be offered to the family at www.staufferfuneralhome.com.

January 6, 1940 – December 15, 2023

Charles E. Ridge, age 83, known affectionately as “Chuck,” passed away on December 15, 2023, at St. Elizabeth’s Hospital in O’Fallon, IL. He was born on January 6, 1940, in Frederick, MD, to Laura nee Eckenrode and Ernest Ridge. He grew up in Thurmont and graduated from Thurmont High School in 1958. Chuck was a loving husband and a cherished friend. His life was filled with laughter, joy, and the indelible impact he made on those fortunate enough to have known him.

Chuck had an infectious sense of humor that brought smiles to everyone around him. His joking attitude brightened the lives of his loved ones and created an atmosphere of happiness wherever he went. He had a knack for finding the humor in any situation and could effortlessly lighten the mood with his quick wit.

In 1976, Chuck married his beloved wife Ruth in Good Hope, OH. They met while both were serving in the military and shared a deep bond, forged through their commitment to one another and their shared experiences. Ruth stood by Chuck’s side throughout their journey together and provided him with unwavering love and support.

As a United States Air Force Veteran, who served from 1958 to 1988, Chuck’s military service was an integral part of his life. He proudly served two tours in Vietnam and retired as an Air Traffic Controller. Chuck’s exemplary service earned him numerous accolades and recognition within the military community. His dedication to duty symbolized his commitment to protecting and serving his country.

Chuck’s passion for sports was evident throughout his life. An avid bowler, he found solace and camaraderie on the bowling lanes. The thrill of competition fueled his spirit, and he relished every moment spent engaging in this beloved pastime.

In addition to his love for sports, Chuck possessed an insatiable curiosity for history. He became a walking encyclopedia when it came to military aircraft, displaying an impressive knowledge of every detail. His fascination with history extended beyond his military expertise, and he eagerly absorbed knowledge about various historical events and periods.

While Chuck possessed a disciplined and military-minded nature, he also had a penchant for procrastination. Nevertheless, he always managed to create well-thought-out plans and executed them meticulously. Regardless of the task at hand, Chuck tackled it with determination and ensured that every minute detail was taken care of.

Chuck’s zest for life was unparalleled. He embraced every opportunity to explore new places, fueled by his military travels. Throughout his journey, he ventured to countless destinations, creating lasting memories along the way. His adventures instilled in him a sense of appreciation for the diverse cultures and landscapes he encountered.

Chuck is survived by his loving wife Ruth Ridge nee Downs of New Baden; daughter Debbie Burke of Youngsville, LA; sister Pauline Grimes of Sabillasville, MD; brother Roy & Peggy Ridge of Frederick, MD; close friend James Sheridan of New Baden; and numerous nieces, nephews, great nieces, and great nephews.

He was preceded in death by his mother Laura Ridge, father Ernest Ridge, sisters Lillie Ridge, Clara Carty, Mary Horne, brother Ernest “Bud” Ridge, and brother Luther Ridge.

The memory of Chuck’s compassionate spirit, infectious laughter, and unwavering love will forever remain in the hearts of all those who were fortunate to have crossed paths with him.

Visitation services were held on December 21, 2023, from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.,  at Nordike Home – New Baden, located at 15 East Hanover Street, New Baden, IL 62265. A funeral service followed the visitation at Nordike Funeral Home.

Burial will take place at Arlington National Cemetery at a later date.

Memorials made in memory of Chuck are suggested to Father Flanagan’s Boys Town or to the charity of donor’s choice and can be done by using the link provided on www.nordikefuneralhome.com/obituaries/charles-ridge or by sending to Nordike Funeral Home, 15 East Hanover Street, New Baden, IL 62265.

To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Charles “Chuck” Ridge, please visit Nordike Funeral Home’s flower store at www.nordikefuneralhome.com/send-flowers.

September 27, 1948 – January 14, 2024

Frank Stephen Warner, 75, of Thurmont, passed from this life suddenly on Sunday, January 14, 2024, at Frederick Health Hospital. He was the loving husband of Donna Warner. They were married for 55 years.

Born on September 27, 1948, in Carroll County and raised in Lewistown, he was the son of the late Frank Sterling Warner and Vivian Irene (Coe) Warner.

He was a graduate of Walkersville High School, Class of 1966, where he was an exceptional athlete. He furthered his education and received his Associate’s Degree from Frederick Community College.

He was a Veteran of the U.S. Army, having been drafted in 1968, and stationed in Bangkok, Thailand, until his Honorable Discharge in 1970.

He was a cartographer with the Defense Mapping (NGA) for many years prior to his retirement.

Frank loved sports and thoroughly enjoyed coaching his daughter’s softball team for many years. He is remembered by many in the community for his coaching skills. He continued to follow sports over the years, and he never missed his grandchildren’s sporting events.

Frank was deeply devoted to his family and was diligent in organizing family reunions and events. He also made a very conscious effort in keeping his family “in the loop.”

A community leader, he was currently serving as the president of the Lewistown Ruritan Club, was a member of the Woodsoro American Legion, and was an avid supporter of various Veteran’s organizations.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by his son, Greggory Warner, and wife, Anna Lisa; daughter, Amanda “Amy” Hoffman, and husband, Ryan; five grandchildren, Tyler, Abigayle (Abby), Colton, Delaney, and Ryan Lee; sisters, Rebecca Wenger and Janet Cline (Don); brother, Karl Warner; numerous nieces and nephews; good friend, Larry Putman; and extended family members and numerous friends.

He was predeceased by his parents, and sister-in-law, Colleen Warner.

The family received friends from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. on Monday, January 22, 2024, at Stauffer Funeral Homes, 1621 Opossumtown Pike in Frederick.

A celebration of Frank’s life journey was held at 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday, January 23, 2024, from the funeral home chapel, with Rev. Tim May officiating.

Interment followed at Resthaven Memorial Gardens.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Frank’s name to the Lewistown Ruritan, c/o of Odale Martin, 7196 Browns Lane, Thurmont, MD 21788.

Expressions of sympathy may be offered to the family at StaufferFuneralHome.com.

April 19, 1943

September 17, 2019

Shirley Ann Dewees-Ridenour, 76, of Thurmont, passed away on Tuesday, September 17, 2019, at Frederick Memorial Hospital.

Born on April 19, 1943, in Thurmont, she was the daughter of the the late Ray Dewees and Hazel Hewitt.

She is survived by: daughter Tina Reeves and husband Keith; granddaughter Kim Reiten and husband Chris; son Edward Ridenour, Jr. and wife Mary, granddaughter Angela, grandsons Andrew, Benjamin, and Lucas; son Timothy Ridenour, granddaughters Brooke and Lexie; daughter Valerie Mort and Chris Etzler, grandson Steven Mort and granddaughter Megan Mort, great-grandson Asher, granddaughter Gracie; daughter Monica Keeney and husband Butch, grandson Justin Tobery and wife Shinead, granddaughter Ashley Trout and great-granddaughter Alyssa and great-grandson Canyon, grandson Johnnie, granddaughter Piper and grandson Dalton. Also survived by brother Bobby Dewees and wife Betty Ann, and brother Tommy and wife Linda.

“Sis” proudly earned her title of Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) and took care of many people during her 20-plus years as a CNA. Sis enjoyed playing Bingo and spending time at the casinos. She loved her kids, grandkids, and great grandkids, especially young Gracie who filled her heart with so much love the last few years of her life.

July 6, 1956

October 31, 2020

It is with profound sadness that the family of William “Pete” Schramm announce his sudden passing on October 31, 2020.

On July 6, 1956, Pete was born in Frankfurt, Germany, to Ann Beall and Frederick Schramm. He resided abroad with his parents and two older siblings, Jim and Celeste, while his father, Fred, was deployed during his career with the CIA. His family also lived in Berlin, Germany (Pete’s favorite), Bangkok, Thailand, and Camp Perry, VA, before settling in Potomac, MD. He attended Winston Churchill High School, then pursued further education at the University of Maryland.

Pete’s career in the hi-tech industry began in a strip mall computer store. It proved to be the beginning of a long and successful career in hi-tech sales and management. Much of his career took him all over the United States, meeting with various accounts. While working for Ando Corporation, he then began to frequent Japan, as well as other parts of Asia, for meetings with clients.

He is remembered by family, friends, and colleagues as a man of good humor, generous nature, respected work ethic, and, mostly, unbridled optimism for everyone’s success in their endeavors. From pythons and rhesus monkeys in Thailand to pet pygmy goats, horses, dogs, and cats in the more recent years, he was recognized for his affinity for animals and nature.

Nearing retirement, Pete worked with ProTEQ Solutions as a sales engineer. He enjoyed this position, as it required less domestic travel, the ability to work from home, and the opportunity to spend more time with his wife and the light of their lives, their daughter Gracie and her husband, Danny Eyler. If you knew Pete, he was either in dress clothes and tie, or you knew him for his clever t-shirts, tropical shorts, and crocs.

Pete was a resident of Emmitsburg for nearly 40 years. He enjoyed target shooting on the weekends with friends and family, fishing, and crafting lovely pieces of stained glass. He was also an avid gardener and was often seen zipping around his property on his mower for a joy ride. He loved spending time with the family’s beloved Belgian Sheepdogs. He loved spending time by or in the water, whether it was the local pool, creek, lake, a bay, or the ocean.

Pete leaves behind his wife, Chris; daughter, Graceann, and her husband, Daniel Eyler. He is survived by brother, Jim Schramm, and wife, Jean; and his sister, Celeste Houser-Jackson, and her husband, Walter, as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

In light of COVID-19, the family has decided to celebrate Pete’s life in Spring of 2021. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude’s Children Research Hospital, a local animal shelter, or charity of choice.

June 25, 1938

November 8, 2020

Jimmy Allen Glass, 82, of Emmitsburg, died on Sunday, November 8, 2020, at Hershey Medical Center in Hershey, PA. Born June 25, 1938, in Emmitsburg, he was the son of the late Kermit George and Della Lauretta (Gladhill) Glass. He was the devoted husband of Doris (Wetzel) Glass, to whom he was married for 61 years.

Jimmy was a maintenance mechanic at the Freeman Shoe Factory in Emmitsburg for more than 35 years. He spent another 10 years working at the Emmitsburg Antique Mall. He was a member of Tom’s Creek United Methodist Church, the Rocky Ridge Volunteer Fire Department, and the Vigilant Hose Company in Emmitsburg, where he served as past president. He enjoyed restoring old Farmall tractors, going to auctions, talking on the phone, watching NASCAR races, spending time with his family, and, in his younger years, bowling and roller skating. He was a fan of the Washington Nationals.

Surviving, in addition to his wife Doris, are daughter, Brenda Myers (Steven) of Carroll Valley, PA; son, John Glass (Tammy) of Emmitsburg; sisters, Betty Ann Mumma, Velma Stambaugh, and Nancy Baker; brothers, Gary Glass (Wanda), Larry Glass (Sue), and Mike Glass (Barb); grandchildren, Chris Wagerman (RaeAnn), Courtney Abrecht (Craig), Ashley Glass, and Jonathan Glass; great-grandchildren, Colby, Lily, Brody, Jake, and Calvin; and many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by brother, Billy Glass; sisters, Carolyn Coshun and Patty McGlaughlin; son-in-law, William Wagerman; and brothers-in-law, Robert Mumma, Fred Stambaugh, Morris Baker, and Leroy Coshun; and nephews, William Usilton and Kermit McGlaughlin..

The family received friends on Thursday, November 12, 2020, at Myers-Durboraw Funeral Home, 210 W. Main St., Emmitsburg, MD.  Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, a private funeral service for family members was held at Tom’s Creek U.M. Church. Burial is in Tom’s Creek Community Cemetery. 

Memorial contributions may be made to Tom’s Creek U.M. Church, 10926 Simmons Rd., Emmitsburg, MD 21727.

January 31, 1948

November 17, 2020

Gail Tapley Powell, 72, died November 17, 2020, at her home in Thurmont, surrounded by her family, friends, and special cat, Blackie Powell.

Born on January 31, 1948, in Louisville, Georgia, Gail was the daughter of the late Ruth Lundy Tapley and the late William Jennings Tapley. Gail graduated from Margaret McEvoy High School in Macon, Georgia, class of 1966, and from Wesleyan College, class of 1970.

 Gail is survived by her husband of 33 years, William D. Powell Jr., a stepson Dr. William D. Powell, III, husband of Jen of Gaithersburg, MD; a stepdaughter Rev. Rebecca J.P. Hoover, wife of Rev. Matthew of Reading, PA; three grandchildren, Katharine (Katie) A. Hoover of Reading, PA, William (Liam) D. Powell, IV and Henry A. Powell of Gaithersburg, MD; sister and brother-in-law Peggy and Donald Trimmer of Woodsboro, MD; and special friend Pam Ellison of Emmitsburg, MD. Gail was predeceased by her brother, James Lewis (Jimmy) Tapley.

When Gail was going through school, she worked for a loan company and worked as a proofreader for a local newspaper. Later, Gail showed a number of champion cattle for livestock fitting service in Anderson, SC. She went on to manage Bermidkin Farm in Wagener, SC; during her time there, she selected a bull for the farm that went on to be a national champion Charolais bull. Aside from her work with Angus cattle, Gail had experience showing Limousin, Simmental, Charolais, and Brahman cattle. She was gifted in the show ring and helped lead 4-H clinics about showing beef cattle. Additionally, Gail had a wealth of experience outside the show ring, from judging shows to clerking numerous cattle and machinery sales, especially sales with the Virginia Angus Association. A partner in Arrowhead Farms in Thurmont, Gail tended faithfully to the farm. She was very handy, loving to fix things and put things together. She cared for the animals on the farm, from the herd of Angus cattle and her late, beloved dog, Wolf, to the birds and hummingbirds, and a large number of cats in more recent years. Along with her husband, Gail was awarded the Maryland Angus Association 1988 Maryland Angus Family of the year, and in 2003, was inducted to the Virginia Association Hall of Merit.

Gail enjoyed all kinds of sports, especially NASCAR. When she was younger, Gail worked as an usher at Daytona Beach. She had a competitive nature and didn’t like to lose games or sports (or bingo). In younger years, Gail enjoyed playing softball, volleyball, and bowling. She also enjoyed hunting and fishing.

 Gail had a warm and caring personality and a knack for making friends wherever she went. Unsurprisingly, Gail had friends all across the country from her Angus days and from the many places she lived. She loved bingo, having a knack for winning and sharing her “pointers” with others. As she played bingo, Gail made many wonderful friends from the games in Walkersville, Emmitsburg, and Thurmont. With her smooth, Georgia drawl, many people enjoyed talking with Gail, not only for her stories but also to listen to her speak.

A public viewing was held on Sunday, November 22 at Stauffer Funeral Home, 104 East Main Street, Thurmont, MD. Funeral services were private. The pallbearers were Mark Butler, Jr., Kenny Clevinger, Eric Donnelly, Thomas Fraley, Ralph Shank, and Ryan Shank, and Ed Little is the honorary pallbearer.

Memorial donations may be made Tip Me Frederick (10425 Daysville Road, Walkersville, MD  21793); Best Friends Animal Society (5001 Angel Canyon Road, Kanab, UT  84741); or the Bettie Jane Foundation (P.O. Box 225, Braddock Heights, MD  21714).

The family wishes to thank Pam Ellison, Hospice of Frederick County, the Visiting Angels, and Bayada Nursing Service for their wonderful support, dedication, and care over the past couple of years.