Archive for November, 2019

Helene Jeannette Kause Oliver

September 1, 1917 – November 10, 2019

Helene Jeannette Kause Oliver passed away in her sleep on November 10, 2019.  She was 102.

Born in Washington, D.C. in 1917, Mrs. Oliver lived in the area her entire life; for the last 60 years, in Silver Spring, Maryland.  She attended Central High School in Washington, D.C., and graduated from American University in 1938, with a BA in Biology.  She went to work on Capitol Hill as initially to a ‘public information’ firm, and then to the Department of Agriculture.  In 1948, she met and married Wallace Bryan Oliver, a union that was to last nearly 63 years.  We are comforted knowing they’re together again.

In addition to raising their family, Helene and Wallace were avid duplicate bridge players, both reaching life master status.  Mrs. Oliver, who began playing the game with her parents in her teens, continued playing to the end – nearly 90 years – her last game only two days before her death.

Helene Oliver was preceded in death by her beloved Wallace in 2011, and her dear sister Charlotte Kause Tucker in 2016.  She is survived and lovingly remembered by son Wallace Kause Oliver (Cherie); daughter Jeannette Lee Oliver; nieces Dana Prandoni (Joe) and Ann Tucker ; and ‘adoptees’ Michelle Jagusch and Hourvash Afrassiabi.  She will be missed by all who knew her.

Visitation will be held at Collins Funeral Home, 500 University Blvd West. Silver Spring, MD 20901 Saturday November 16, 2019 from 3 to 5 pm.

Long Thanh Nguyen (Age 48)

On Monday, November 11, 2019, of Silver Spring, MD.  Beloved husband of Thi Nguyen; Long leaves behind his loving son;  Also survived by loving family members and friends.  Relatives and friends may call at  Collins Funeral Home, 500 University Boulevard West, Silver Spring, MD, 20901 (Valet Parking), Sunday, November 17, from 2 PM to 4 PM and 7 PM to 9 PM. Mass of Christian Burial at Our Lady of Vietnam R.C. Church, 11814 New Hampshire Avenue, Silver Spring, MD, 20904 on Monday, November 18,  at 10 AM.  Interment Gate of Heaven Cemetery.

CHARLES LEONARD TRAGESER (Age 89)

On Monday, November 11, 2019, of Wheaton, MD. Beloved husband of the late Jean E. Trageser; father of Mickey G. Rinaldi, Jay Trageser (Jeanette) and Mark A. Trageser; grandfather of Jason A. Rinaldi, Michael R., Nicholas J., and Ryan A. Trageser; brother of Shirley Terry. Relatives and friends may call at Collins Funeral Home, 500 University Boulevard West, Silver Spring, MD, (Valet Parking), Thursday, from 7 to 9 p.m. Funeral Service at Church of Christ at Manor Woods, 5300 Norbeck Road, Rockville, MD, on Friday, November 15, at 10 a.m. Interment Gate of Heaven Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to American Lung Association of Maryland, 211 E. Lombard St, #260, Baltimore, MD 21202.

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Emilia Gotthold

Emilia Gotthold, 96, passed away on November 7th, 2019 in Silver Spring, Maryland. Emilia was born on February 5th, 1923 in Puerto Limon, Costa Rica to parents: Rosalia and Juan Ramon Gonzalez.

The youngest of five children, she excelled in school and she was a champion in table tennis, as well.

She worked in Costa Rica for a number of years, lived in Venezuela for a while and moved to the United States where she found a job at the Organization of American States in Washington, D.C. as a specialist of retirement and pension funds. She retired in 1978, after 20 years of service.

Emilia married Louis B. Gotthold in 1960 and lived a happy, married life until his passing in 1971.

A devout Catholic, she was a parishioner at St. Catherine Laboure church.
Her U.S. citizenship was granted in 1968.

She enjoyed reading and on Sundays, she loved visiting and giving candy to the people in nursing homes near her house.

She is survived by eight nieces and nephews. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her memory to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

Sean Noel O’Rourke
February 18, 1936- November 7, 2019

Sean Noel O’Rourke, age 83, of Silver Spring, Maryland, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family, on Thursday, November 7, 2019, after a long illness.

He is survived by his wife of 49 years, Sharon, his son Frank O’Rourke, and his daughter Kimberly (Shane) Wivell. He is also survived by sisters Sheri (Don) LaBorne, Frances (Jim) Bailey, Patricia (Dominic) Parr, and Eilish (Cyril) O’Neill, as well as his sister-in-law Jan (Joe) Moschetto, brothers-in-law Bob (Mary) Hobson, Mike (Petra) Hobson, Rick (Christie) Hobson, Jim Hobson, and numerous nieces and nephews.

Sean was born in Athenry, County Galway, Ireland in 1936, to Frank and Annie O’Rourke. After being ordained a Roman Catholic priest in 1958, he immigrated to the United States. He served as both an assistant priest and a pastor during his ten year ministry in the Archdiocese of Savannah, Georgia. He married his wife, Sharon, after being laicized by Pope Paul VI. Sean retired, after 33 years, as a Health Science Administrator and Public Health Advisor for the Federal Department of Health and Human Services. He was very active in his church community, and he was a long time member of the Knights of Columbus.

Sean was a devoted husband and father. He loved to sing, listen to music, and tell stories. Above all, he loved spending time with his family. He was often found dancing with his wife whenever, and wherever, a good song was being played. He was truly loved and admired by his family and friends. He is preceded in death by his parents, and his infant brother, John Joe.

Relatives and friends may call at Collins Funeral Home, 500 University Blvd. West, Silver Spring, MD 20901 (Valet Parking) on Thursday, November 14, from 3 to 5 and 7 to 9 p.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, 520 Veirs Mill Road, Rockville, MD 20852 on Friday, November 15, at 10:30 a.m. Interment at Gate of Heaven Cemetery, 13801 Georgia Avenue, Silver Spring, MD 20906. Immediately following the burial, family and friends are invited to celebrate Sean’s life at a reception at the Knights of Columbus, Father Rosensteel Council, 9707 Rosensteel Avenue, Silver Spring, MD 20910.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, in his honor.

John Chester “Chet” Hartman (Age 92)

On Saturday, November 9, 2019, of Silver Spring, MD. Beloved husband of Catherine Fischer Hartman; father of Karen M. Hamilton, John Hartman (Suzanne) and Charlie Hartman (Robin); grandfather of Carrie Magdar (Eric), Jason Hamilton (Lindsay) and Sarah Paxton (Kevin). Also survived by 7 great grandchildren. Predeceased by his siblings Milton Hartman, Donald Hartman, Olin Hartman, Harold Hartman and sister, Doris Dudley. Relatives and friends may call at Our Lady of Grace, 15661 Norbeck Blvd, Silver Spring, MD, Wednesday, November 13, from 10 to 11 a.m.; where the Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 11 a.m. Interment Gate of Heaven Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Little Sisters of the Poor, 4200 Harewood Road, NE, Washington, DC 20017 or Montgomery Hospice, 1355 Piccard Dr., Suite 100, Rockville, MD 20850.

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Laurie Pharr Thomas

October 22, 2019 On Tuesday, October 22, 2019, Laurie Pharr Thomas, of Roanoke, Va., loving sister, died at the age of 52. Laurie was born in Roanoke, Va. to Bob and Joan Thomas. She graduated from Saint Margaret’s School and studied at Elon college. A gifted and promising athlete Laurie was selected to the participate in the 1992 Olympic Games in Barcelona. While training, Laurie’s life was forever altered by a tragic accident. She was left physically disabled and with a Traumatic Brain Injury. True to her indomitable spirit, Laurie refused to be defined by her disabilities, and fought to be her best and to bring light, joy and love into the world. Laurie was a gifted artist, potter, photographer, gardener and writer. She loved animals and served as a volunteer with local rescue organizations, her beloved and constant companion, “Faith”, a pug mix always by her side. Laurie saw the good in everyone and was quick to strike up a conversation, lend a hand, and offer words of encouragement. She was known for her infectious laughter, and kind, compassionate heart. Laurie is preceded in death by her father, James Robert Thomas Jr.,; and her mother, Joan Pharr Thomas. She is survived by her brother, Mark Armistead Thomas; and nephews, Jack, and Will Thomas; her sister, Catherine Thomas Boehmcke, brother-in-law, Burke Boehmcke; nephew, Ben; and nieces, Ellie and Cate. In keeping with Laurie’s wishes, her family will be honoring her life in a private memorial service. In lieu of flowers and in honor of her memory, please consider a donation in her name to Angels of Assisi Animal Shelter in Roanoke, VA or Brain Injury Services in Springfield, VA. Laurie’s Facebook page will remain open and all are encouraged to post memories and final words to her there.

DONALD M. McKEE

Donald Monroe McKee, passed away peacefully on 2 November 2019 at Washington Adventist Hospital, just 2 days short of his 96th birthday.

McKee, was born on 4 November 1923. A native of Kalamazoo MI, he originally intended to become an engineer and enrolled in the University of Michigan. In 1943 he set these plans aside to serve his country, relinquishing his college deferment, in order to be drafted.  McKee landed on Omaha Beach on June 7, 1944 with the 29th Division, E Company, 175th Infantry Regiment.  He was 20 years old, an army medic, who vividly remembers his service.

During his three months in Normandy, McKee received two Purple Hearts. He was injured by a mortar blast as the 29th Division headed towards Saint-Lô.  As the division continued on to Brest, McKee was again hit by a mortar blast.  This time he was evacuated to a hospital in Cardiff, Wales for several months of recuperation.

In mid-December 1944, he was returned to limited service and sent to an Army post office unit near Paris.  As the war in Europe drew to a close, McKee was redeployed to the Pacific Theater arriving in the Philippines just as the war was ending. He returned to the US in December 1945 and took up his studies at the University of Michigan, earning a degree in chemical engineering and working as an environmental engineer for 38 years.  In 1948, he married Virginia Helm.

In retirement, McKee became active with the 29th Division Association and served as National Commander during the 50th Anniversary commemorations in Normandy.  McKee worked to support D-Day preservation memorials not only in Normandy but, also in Annapolis MD and Bedford VA.

McKee spent many years working to publish the Twenty-Niner, the official publication of the 29th Division Association, Inc. Don became the editor until 2013.  Don was always very passionate about the Association, had endless energy and, as anyone who knew him might say, was not short on words when speaking publicly.  Members of the 29th Division have said to have had many happy memories of being around him especially when he was doing what he loved to do – which was to represent the 29th and the Association.”

McKee was civic minded and served in leadership positions in several other organizations including being the President of his neighborhood Home Owners Association for several years.  He was very active as an auctioneer in a Silver Spring coin club and even as a presenter of a Military History and Veteran’s Discussion Group.  McKee cared for people and was always willing and interested in helping others.

His beloved Virginia predeceased him in January of 2007, they had no children.  McKee was also preceded in death by his brother, Robert and his parents, Allen and Julia.  He is survived by several nieces and a nephew. McKee was blessed to have a wonderful friends and neighbors.

Relatives and friends may call at Collins Funeral Home, 500 University Blvd West, Silver Spring, MD, (Valet Parking),Friday, Nov 15th, from 7 to 9 pm, and Saturday, Nov 16th, 12 to 1pm, where a Funeral Service will be held at 1pm. Interment at Arlington National Cemetery at a later date. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to The 29th Division Assoc, National HQ’s, 5 Shore Dr, N East MD 21901-3327

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MARY B. EBNER  

On Tuesday, November 5, 2019, Mary Ebner of Palm Coast, Florida and Silver Spring, MD Beloved wife of the late George Ebner, loving mother of Mary Beth “Marie” (David) Hartman, Cathy (Reg) Rainard, Tom (Patty) Ebner, Susan Birch, Elizabeth (Michael) Weigand and Timothy Ebner: sister of Rudolph Biro; also survived by 20 grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. Mass of Christian Burial on Saturday, November 16, 2019 at St. Andrew the Apostle Catholic Church, 11600 Kemp Mill Rd, Silver Spring, MD, 9:45 a.m. followed by interment at Gate of Heaven Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Andrew Catholic Church Capital Campaign, 11600 Kemp Mill Rd. Silver Spring, MD 20902, Brookside Gardens, contact Ellen Bennett at montgomeryparks.org or Wheaton Volunteer Rescue Squad 2400 Arcola Ave, Silver Spring, MD 20902.

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ROOSEVERT RENE (Age 75)

Jean Roosevert Rene (Roose) age 75 passed away at his home on November 7, 2019, in Takoma Park.

Born July 19, 1944, in La Vallee De Jacmel (Ternier), son of the late Novert Rene and Celita Lacourt. He married Edith Boursiquot in 1971 in La Vallee De Jacmel. He moved to the United States in 1988 to join his family in Maryland. He is survived by his sons Ronald and Eddy, and his daughters Michelle, Celita, Natacha, Nicole, Sonia, and Roseline. Roosevert also survided by 18 grandchildren. Roosevert has extended family not only in the United States but also in Haiti and Canada.

Roosevert was a great farmer in Haiti who took pride in his appearance. He loved hats, riding his horses wherever he went, playing cards and dominos with his friends. Roosevert was known for his confidence and no-nonsense personality but thrived most helping anyone in need.

Relatives and friends may call at Collins Funeral Home, 500 University Boulevard West, Silver Spring, MD, (Valet Parking), Wednesday, November 13, from 2 to 4 p.m. and 7 to 9 p.m.; where the Funeral Service will be held on Thursday, November 14, 2019 at 11 a.m. Interment private.

Palmer George Luetjen, Jr. (Age 86)

On Wednesday, November 5, 2019, of Silver Spring, MD. Husband of the late Wilma for 54 years. Father of three sons, Gordon (Karen), Gregory (Susann), and Matthew (Julie) Luetjen; grandfather of Matthew, Jessica, and Ryan. Son of the late Lillian and the late Palmer Luetjen, Sr. Brother of the late Evelyn Gehringer and Bobbi DeOliveira.

Relatives and friends may call at St. Andrew Apostle Church, 11600 Kemp Mill Rd, Silver Spring, MD 20902 on Monday, November 11, 2019, from 12 to 1pm, where Funeral Service will be held at 1pm. Interment Gate of Heaven cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Father McKenna Center (<https://fathermckennacenter.org/how-you-can-help/donate/>

ALDA FORRESTER

Alda Forrester passed away on November 1, 2019 surrounded by her loving family. She was 82 years old and was born on November 21, 1936 in Middle Buxton, Jamaica.  She was the daughter of Etta and Mordecai “Sidney” Grey. Alda was blessed in this life with four children; twins, Althea and Angella, her only son, Leighton, and the youngest, Rosemarie. She leaves behind her loving husband of 58 years, Rupert, her four children, daughter in-law Corrine (wife of Leighton), son-in-laws Howard (husband of Althea) and Shane (husband of Rosemarie) and her beloved granddaughters: Corleigh, Sydney, and Alyssa.  She also leaves her beloved nieces, nephews, grand nieces and nephews, and many loving friends, including her cherished fellow nurses and best friends, Norma McKayle, Norma Clinkscales and Beryl Adams. Nursing was her calling, and during her career she had the honor and privilege to care for patients, who were amazing people; and they in turn were cared for by someone who was known to be a knowledgeable, caring and thoughtful nurse. In the end, Alda called upon her Christian faith, the love of her family and her friends as well as her knowledge and experience as a nurse to give her the strength and courage she needed at the end of her life. She was a long time member of the New Hampshire Avenue Gospel Chapel. Services will be held Thursday, November 14, 2019 at 11 am at Hillandale Baptist Church, Adelphi, MD. Interment will be at George Washington Cemetery, Adelphi, MD. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made in Alda Forrester’s honor to the Medstar Washington Hospital Center for the Advanced Heart Failure Program, 110 Irving Street, N.W., Washington, DC 20010.

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Hugo  Ayala (Age 62)

Heaven received a very special angel when Hugo Enrique Ayala, 62, of Silver Spring, MD was called home on Sunday, October 27, 2019. Hugo was a beloved son of his late mother Irma Davis ; loving father of Javier Ayala and Karen Ayala; wonderful sibling to his brother Jose  Herrera and two sisters Yolanda Orozco and Margot Herrera. Also survived by many nieces and nephews who loved their devoted uncle very much. Relatives and friends may call at  Collins Funeral Home, 500 University Boulevard West, Silver Spring, MD, (Valet Parking), Monday, November 4, 2019, from 2 to 4 p.m. and 7 to 9 p.m. Mass of Christian Burial at St. Catherine Laboure Church, Veirs Mill & Claridge Roads, Wheaton, MD, on Tuesday, November 5, 2019 at 10 a.m.  Interment Maryland National Memorial Park.

Wilfred Jerome “Bill” Billerbeck, Jr. (Age 92)

On Tuesday, October 29, 2019 of Rockville, MD. Husband of the late Maureen Greaney Billerbeck; beloved father of Kathleen Moore, John Billerbeck, the late James Billerbeck, Eileen Gilfrich, Maryellen Tibbs, the late Barbara Proctor, Charles Billerbeck, Jean Billerbeck, & Robert Billerbeck; grandfather of Jennifer, Megan, Karin, Andrew, Monica, Theresa, Colleen, Laura, Sean, Hannah, Luke, & Casey; great-grandfather of Patrick, Finley, Nancy, Genevieve, & Vincent; brother to the late Eleanor O’Connell, Joan Billerbeck, & Pat Bowman. Relatives & friends may call at Collins Funeral Home, 500 University Boulevard West, Silver Spring, MD, (valet parking), Sunday, November 10, 2019 from 2 to 4 pm. Mass of Christian Burial at Holy Cross Catholic Church, 4900 Strathmore Avenue, Garrett Park, MD, on Monday, November 11, at 11 am.  Internment Gate of Heaven Cemetery.  Memorial contributions may be made to the Billerbeck Endowment Fund for St. Ann’s Center for Children Youth & Families, 4901 Eastern Avenue, Hyattsville, MD 20782.

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