HARDING — Louise ‘Weez’ A. Harding, age 64, of Clarksboro, was welcomed by many relatives in Heaven on Oct. 27, 2016.
Known as Weez by those she loved and Ms. Harding by those who respected her, Louise was a strong and independent woman who’s generosity and leadership inspired greatness in others. She was an educator at Deptford Township High School, teaching physical education and driver’s education. She coached softball and bowling, ran the Girls Athletic Association, and became a department head while also volunteering for numerous committees.
Later in life, her spare time was filled with playing golf, rescuing countless animals, and volunteering for the Phillies. She loved the Jersey shore and WDW. She’ll always be Tigger’s #1 fan.
Beloved sister to Lorraine Woodring (Christopher), and the late Charles Jr. and Alice; cherished aunt of Jackalyn Knox (Joseph), Jason (Jacqueline) and Eric Woodring; treasured great aunt of Athena and Joseph, V.; adored daughter of the late Charles F. Sr., and Florence E. (nee Taht); Louise is also survived by many loved ones, you know who you are.
Donations may also be made in her name to Deptford Township Foundation for Educational Excellence, c/o Business Office, Deptford Twp. BOE, 2022 Good Intent Rd., Deptford, NJ 08096 and to the NJ Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, www.njspca.org/donate. Share the memories share love ShareLife at www.mcgfuneral.com.
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EMGENBROICH — Sandra M. Emgenbroich, age 56, died on Oct. 27, 2016. Daughter of the late Hans and Johanna Emgenbroich, sister to John (Kerry) Emgenbroich of Westfield, Indiana; Karen (Mark) Karnes of Towson, Maryland; and Janice (John) Sparks of West Chester, Pennsylvania and aunt to five nieces and nephews.
A graduate of the Elsmere School in Glassboro, Sandy was a longtime employee of the Abilities Center in Westville, NJ. Sandy was part of the ARC’s Supportive Living Program and, for many years lived in Heather Ridge Apartments with her roommate and best friend, the late Nancy Stewart. Sandy was an avid bowler, who was devoted to her friends and family and loved spending holidays in the company of her siblings.
Contributions in Sandy’s memory may be made to The ARC of Gloucester County, 1555 Gateway Blvd., West Deptford, NJ 08096. Memories may be shared at www.kelleyfhpitman.com.
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MONGRANDI — Stella Docimo Mongrandi, age 97 died on Oct. 28, 2016 at Shady Lane Home where she lived for the past two years. Stella was born and raised in Syracuse, NY. She lived most of her life in South Philadelphia where she raised her family, before moving to West Deptford in 2005. Stella was a Manager at the Beauty Salon at Strawbridge’s in Springfield, PA for many years.
She was predeceased by her husband Joseph Docimo and Sergio Mongrandi. Survived by her children Carolyn (Alvin) Walton, Joseph (Anna) Docimo, Geraldine Edmondson and stepdaughter Donna Mongrandi. Stella also had 11 grandchildren and four great grandchildren. Contributions may be made to Shady Lane Resident’s Fund, 256 County House Rd, Clarksboro, NJ 08020. Memories may be shared at www.buddfuneralhome.com.
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GARHARD — Francis A. Gerhard “Joe” age 78, of Mullica Hill passed away Oct. 28, 2016. Joe had been a resident of Harrison Township for 15 years. He enjoyed collecting trains and driving the children on the school bus.
Son of the late Helen and John Gerhard, he is survived by brother John E. Gerhard, sisters Joan Meehan, Elaine Gleason, Barbara Webb, niece Patricia Garr, many other nieces and nephews and their families. Also survived by his good friends Frank DeGironimo and Joe Kircher.
Donations can be made to Leukemia & Lymphoma Society of America 528 B Fellowship Rd. Mt. Laurel, NJ 08054. Memories and condolences can be shared at www.smithfhmantua.com.
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COUSIN — Christopher D. Cousin, 23, of the Beckett section of Logan Township, passed away Oct. 29, 2016. The beloved son of Karl and Tracy Cousin, he was a loving and kind man that would help anybody that asked him. Chris graduated from Kingsway Regional High School in 2011. He was employed as a shipping clerk at KMT Brrr.
Chris is survived by his mother Tracy (Chapman) Cousin, sister Morgan Cousin, MomMom Patricia Chapman, Grandpop Charles Wood; uncles, Mark Chapman, Ron Cousin and Abel Perez; aunts, Dawn (Chapman) Perez, Christine (Cousin) Tuller and Cheryl Cousin; cousins, Brad and Ally Perez, Trajan and Julian Chapman, Nichole and Lauren Tuller, and his beloved dog, Nikki. Chris was predeceased by his father, Karl Cousin, PopPop Barry Chapman and Grandmom Paula Cousin Wood.
Please consider making a donation in Chris’s name to: Young Life, P.O. Box 8152, Turnersville, N.J. 08012. This is a nonprofit, nondenominational organization that helps teens bring God into their lives, learn to be selfless and help others and in return make good friends.
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BOWLES — William J. Bowles, 75, of Woolwich Township, passed away on Oct. 29, 2016, surrounded by family at Penn Medicine, Wissahickon Hospice in Rittenhouse Square, Philadelphia.
Bill was born April 26, 1941, in Jersey City, N.J., and resided for 43 years in Union Township, N.J., with his loving wife Judy and two adoring daughters, Jennifer and Melissa, before moving to Woolwich. Bill is survived by his loving wife of 45 years, Judy Bowles; two daughters, Jennifer Bowles-Rzepski and husband Christopher Rzepski, and Melissa Reilly and husband Dennis Reilly, and two grandchildren, Shawn and Ella Reilly; sisters, Rosemary Queenan and Virginia Smith; also surviving are several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his mother, Veronica Morris Bowles, father, William Joseph Bowles, and sister, Veronica Hill.
Bill graduated from Boston College with a Bachelor of Science degree in finance. He worked for over 35 years in research and development for re-insurance companies. Bill was a devoted Boston College football fan. He enjoyed traveling to Florida every winter and spending time with his family. His hobbies were reading, running, tennis, riding his bicycle, playing with his grandkids and was an avid science fiction fan.
We would like to thank all the nurses, doctors and ancillary staff at Penn Medicine Neuro Intensive Care Unit and Hospice for taking such good care of Bill and providing him with the utmost dignity he deserved during this sudden tragedy. Donations in memory of Bill may be made through, In Memory Of, for Penn Home Care and Hospice Services, at www.inmemoryof-memorial.org. If you prefer, you may mail also mail a check payable to In Memory Of and send it to P.O. Box 5472, Charlottesville, VA 22905. For more information or to share memories with the family, please visit www.martinfh.com
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PRATT III — Christopher Pratt III, 81, of Cape Coral, FL, formerly of Mullica Hill, died on Oct. 30, 2016. Beloved husband of the late Joan M. (nee Holberg); devoted father of Louis (Kris) and Andrew (Diane) Pratt; loving grandfather of Courtney, Zachary and Dylan; dear brother of Charles (Gail) Pratt, Madeline (late Warren) Haines and the late Charlotte Lemke. He is also survived by many nieces and nephews.
Prior to his retirement, Mr. Pratt was employed as a mechanic for American Airlines for close to 40 years. He was a United States Air Force veteran, and was extremely proud to hold his private pilot license. He enjoyed spending winters in Florida, and summers at the Mullica River.
Donations may be made in his name to the Alzheimer’s Association, 3 Eves Drive, Suite 310, Marlton, NJ 08053.
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JUSTICE — William F. “Bill” Justice, age 87 years, of Clarksboro died Oct. 31, 2016 in the house that he built. Mr. Justice was born on the family farm, the youngest of five children, in Bridgeport and graduated from Swedesboro High School Class of 1947. Bill knew that farming was not for him so he joined the Navy serving on the USS Wright and USS Intrepid. He saw the Mediterranean, Panama and Trinidad, Beirut and Italy, where he was able to meet the Pope. After leaving active service, his technical skills and electronics expertise led him to a career working for the Navy in a precursor to the space program. During this time he helped train Ham the monkey, Alan Shepard and John Glenn and several other astronauts for the Gemini program.
Bill was a kind and honorable man who loved his country, life, his wife and his family. He is survived by his beloved wife of 61 years, Joan E. Justice (nee Bryson) of Clarksboro; his children, Steve and Johanna Justice of Gibbstown, Bill and Nancy Justice of Carneys Point, Lisa and Nick Morina of Mickleton, Bob and Suzette Justice of Mantua; his grandchildren, Billy, Alicia, Nicole, Lauren, Adam, Colin and Shana, and his four great-grandchildren. The funeral services were held in the McBride – Foley Funeral Home, Paulsboro. Contributions can be made in his memory to the Kennedy Cancer Center, c/o KHCF, 1099 White Horse Rd., Voorhees, NJ 08043. Memories can be shared at www.mcbridefoleyfh.com.
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GILLESPIE — Jacqueline Kae Gillespie (nee Taggart), age 53, passed on Nov. 1, 2016 in the comfort of her home in Mullica Hill. Jackie was raised in Pitman and was a graduate of Pitman High School in 1981. She lived in Florida over 17 years before moving back to the Pitman area in 2004. Jackie worked for Publix Markets in Tarpon Springs, FL for 17 years.
Survived by her children, John D. Jr., Jenna, Jessica, and siblings, Gerry Donovan, Robin McIlvaine, Michael Taggart and Priscilla Hagerty.
Contributions may be made to Friends for Jackie. Memories may be shared at www.kelleyfhpitman.com.
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McEVOY — Betsy J. McEvoy (nee McCue), age 68, died on Nov. 2, 2016. Betsy lived in Mullica Hill most of her life and was a graduate of Clearview High School in 1966. She enjoyed antiquing, shopping, and watching her grandchildren play sports. Betsy was a wonderful friend to many and will be greatly missed.
She was predeceased by her son, Jonathan P. Survived by her husband of 48 years, P. Paul McEvoy; sons, Andrew T. (Kathleen), Peter P. (Kristin), Adam (Angela), daughter-in-law, Kristin; grandchildren, Elizabeth, Jack, Andie, Tripp, Liam, Colin, Ryan, Chase, Adam Jr. and Rocco; and sister, Carole (Bill) Scherzer.
Those desiring may make a contribution to the American Cancer Society, 1851 Old Cuthbert Rd., Cherry Hill, NJ 08034. Memories may be shared at www.kelleyfhpitman.com.
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NOVAK JR. — Brian M. Novak Jr., age 38, of Mullica Hill, formerly of Blaine, WA, passed away suddenly on Nov. 3, 2016.
Beloved father of Dylan and Mersais Novak, and their mother, Amy Novak, of Blaine, WA. Loving son of Diana and Paul Vallandingham of Mullica Hill, Brian M. Novak, Sr. of Deptford, and Mary Ellen Novak of Mantua. Grandson of Evelyn Vallandingham. Brother of Ashley and Danielle Vallandingham, Nicole Gallo, Kevin Novak and Mandi Harberger. Also survived by many aunts, uncles, nephew, cousins and friends. Brian was predeceased by his grandparents, Kathleen and Frank Novak, James Vallandingham, and Eugene and Suzanne Przywara.
Brian had a wonderful sense of humor and a forgiving nature which he shared with all who knew him. He was happiest surfing, snowboarding and being active outdoors with friends and family. Brian (Skinny) spent 17 years in service for his country: Navy – USS Abraham Lincoln, and US Army 1st BN 303rd CAV. He was the recipient of multiple awards and commendations, including a Purple Heart.
Contributions may be made in the name of “In Trust for Dylan and Mersais Novak”, care of TD Bank, 148 N. Main St., Mullica Hill, NJ 08062. Thoughts and prayers may be extended at www.FERTIGFUNERALHOME.com.
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GRAY— Benjamin E. Gray, age 97 of Mullica Hill, passed away on Nov. 4, 2016. Born in Daretown, he was the son of Harry & Elizabeth (Elwell) Gray. Benjamin was a 1937 graduate of Woodstown High School and graduated from the University of Florida with a degree in bio-science. He also received his Master’s degree from Princeton University. He was a 1st Lieutenant in the US Army, serving during WWII, and he retired as a biochemist from Campbell’s Soup Company after 25 years of service. He loved to golf, and he was an avid sports fan, especially the Phillies and Eagles.
Uncle Ben is survived by his nephew, Larry Ambruster; his great-niece, Leslie Conto; his great-nephews, L. Scott Ambruster and Ronald Ambruster; his great-niece, Stacey Harrell; and his niece, Janice (Briggs) Turner. He was predeceased by his wife, Mildred Briggs Gray in April of 2014; and his niece, Jeanne (Hackett) Ambruster, in November of 2006.
Please visit www.htlayton.com to leave a note of condolence to the family.
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SORBELLO JR. — Rosario Sorbello Jr., age 83, peacefully departed this life on Nov. 6, 2016 surrounded by his beloved wife, children and grandchildren. Rosario is survived by his wife of 60 years, Mary (nee Nicolosi); his six daughters, Joan Adams; Nedda Grasso (Leonard); Rosemary Botto (Joseph) Susan Lewbart (Randy); Julie Barile (Dean DeBroekert, MD); Debra Conners (Peter); his 15 grandchildren, Richard Adams, David Adams, Katherine Wilson, Ben Wilson, Julianne Grasso, Leonard Grasso, Jennifer Botto, Joseph Botto, Jeremy Lewbart, Joshua Lewbart, Kyle Barile, Benjamin DeBroekert, Jacob DeBroekert, Sophia Conners, Billy Conners and one great-granddaughter, Scarlett Wilson.
For many years Rosario was the proprietor of Rosario Sorbello Farms of Mullica Hill and along with his wife and daughter, Debra, operated Sorbello Girls Farm Market. Prior to that he farmed with his father and brothers as Rosario Sorbello Sons farm in Swedesboro. Nicknamed by his friends as “The Gentleman Farmer”, Rosario was a quiet, kind and extremely generous man, known for his quick smile and helpful spirit. He served for many years on the Elk Township Zoning Board, as a Ewan Volunteer Fireman, for his church on the St. Alfio Committee and as past president of his deer club, but his days were filled with love and laughter with his children, his grandchildren and great-grandchild.
Rosario was a man of few words, but when he spoke, his words resonated. Never one to boast or brag, he was generous to a fault. Anyone who was in need of assistance would find him ready and more than willing to pitch in and lend a helping hand. He dedicated his 83 years on this earth to the life of a farmer, growing the most beautiful peaches and apples as well as a host of vegetables. He was always the topper at the end of the packing line because he knew exactly how to make the pack beautiful and he took great pride in doing things right.
Coming from a culture which prized a son to carry on the family name and a profession which needed a son to carry on the business, he was blessed with six daughters. As time passed and he grew older, as his joints hurt more as he got on and off the tractor, and when shutting off the irrigation pump at 4 a.m. just got harder to do, he never complained.
He never once bemoaned the fact that he had not had a son, instead making every child feel as if they were unique and very special. He said often, “I am the richest man in South Jersey because of these girls.” He was most proud of the fact that he raised six women who each were accomplished professionals, able to take care of themselves no matter what life threw at them. From the time they were very young he would say, “They don’t make men like they used to so you girls have to know how to take care of yourself.” To his last day on this earth he was most proud of the women they had become. He raised an attorney, an accountant, a physical therapy assistant, a teacher, a registered nurse, and a public relations specialist.
He was a wonderful story teller and loved a good joke. Although a bit reticent, if asked he would participate willingly in the card games with his grandchildren, the photo shots on snap chat and in the annual Christmas skits. He had a beautiful voice and car rides with his girls were punctuated by singing along to the country radio station. Having created a very musical family, he loved nothing more than listening to his children and grandchildren sing in church, exhibit their musical prowess on the multitude of instruments they played and entertain at each family gathering with a musical review that rivaled America’s Got Talent (or maybe Hee Haw).
No description of Rosario’s life would be complete without discussing the love and joy of his life, his wife of 60 years, Mary. They had six children in nine years and worked together in the shared goal of creating a life. They farmed together. While Rosario worked in the field, Mary ran the roadside market. They were blessed to enjoy a time when they could travel together, seeing the world. Mary is an avid photographer and artist and Rosario never minded taking a moment so she could stop and take a picture or two – or ten.
He followed her on her Cape May diamond hunting excursions, and allowed himself to be immortalized in clay or paint or soap. He was a good sport. Mary was by his side for each joy and sorrow of their journey. She was his love, his friend, his companion and his biggest cheer leader.
Rosario was predeceased by his parents, Rosario and Jennie (Finocchiaro) Sorbello, his brothers, Joseph, Michael and Alfio Sorbello. His sons in law, John J. Adams, Esq.; Ens. Ralph Barile and Officer Daniel Kellett.
The family asks that donations be made in his memory and as a tribute to his love for his children to the St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital , stjude.org., The John J. Adams, Esq. Memorial Scholarship 1534 Kings Highway Swedesboro NJ 08085 or the Ralph A. Barile Memorial Scholarship, 607 Bridgeton Pike Mullica Hill NJ 08062. For more information or to leave your remembrances, visit FERTIGFUNERALHOME.com.
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POSTELL — Juneau R. Postell, nee Reuter, 91, of Mullica Hill, wife of the late William Vance Postell, died Nov. 6, 2016, at her home. Born in Woodbury and a lifelong Harrison Twp. resident, she was a graduate of Glassboro High School. A housewife, she enjoyed camping, traveling (visited all 50 states), gardening, and doing crafts. She was a lifetime member of Richwood United Methodist Church.
Juneau is survived by her two daughters, Judy Crane (Larry) and Karen Pennell; her foster daughter, Dottie Harvey; two grandchildren, Wayne Crane (Melanie) and Tessa Thompson (Peter); four great-grandchildren, D.J. Lahneman, Kyle Crane, Mackenzie Thompson and Amelia Thompson; and her niece, Madeline Dolcin.
Contributions may be made to either Richwood United Methodist Church, P.O. Box 7, Richwood, NJ 08074 or Ewan United Methodist Church, P.O. Box 139, Ewan, NJ 08025. Share condolences at www.mathisfuneral.com.
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COLEMAN — Shane Coleman aged 38 years of Swedesboro died Nov. 12, 2016 in his home. Shane was raised in Gibbstown, where he wrestled and played football; he also attended Paulsboro High School. He was an excellent cook whose specialty was chicken cutlets. Shane was a devoted Miami Dolphins fan and a former sprint car driver. However, his passion was for hunting and all types of fishing with his favorite place being the pond behind his home.
He is survived by his soulmate, Suzanne Coleman (nee Paz) of Swedesboro; his son, who was his entire world, Caiden Coleman; Suzy’s children, Sabrina and Chase Ruiz, and his Aunts, Robyn and Len Albright, Denise Coleman, Stacey and Joe Valdez and Cindy Mauger. Shane was predeceased by his parents, Guy Coleman and Maryann “Peppy” Mauger.
Shane’s heart and personality were larger than the universe. His sense of humor and laughter were contagious and helped him to make many, many friends.
The funeral service was held in the McBride – Foley Funeral Home, Paulsboro. Contributions can be made to the Caiden Coleman Trust Fund, c/o Suzanne Coleman, 47 Shady Brooke Lane, Logan Twp., NJ 08085. Memories can be shared at www.mcbridefoleyfh.com.
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TRESCH — Ray H. “Bud” Tresch, age 78, of Mullica Hill passed away Nov. 14, 2016 at home. Ray was the former owner of Redy Mixt Konkrete and Woodbury Cement Company.
Ray is survived by wife Gail V. Tresch (nee Lecompte), son Gregory A. Tresch and his wife Patricia Spence Tresch, grandchildren Sherri, Nicole, Timothy Tresch, great-grandchildren Ryan and Madeline. Predeceased by his son Mark Tresch.
Donations can be made to the American Cancer Society 1851 Old Cuthbert Road Cherry Hill, NJ 08034. Memories and condolences can be shared at www.smithfhmantua.com.
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GOUSE — Dorothy M. Gouse (nee Spencer) age 81 years of Clarksboro, formerly of Bridgeport went home to be with the Lord on Nov. 19, 2016. Dorothy was a homemaker who enjoyed seek a word puzzles and caring for her family. She was also a member of Kingsway Baptist Church and looked forward to studying her morning devotions.
She is survived by her children, Debbie Cheeseman and Scott Gouse; six grandchildren, three great grandchildren and her sister, Alpha Mangiocco. Dorothy was predeceased by her husband, Walter Gouse and her sons, Mark Steven and Kevin Matthew.
Funeral services were held at the McBride – Foley Funeral Home, Paulsboro. Memories can be shared at www.mcbridefoleyfh.com.
