The Donohue Funeral Home - Wayne Obituaries

Introduction to The Donohue Funeral Home - Wayne

The Donohue Funeral Home - Wayne is a trusted and compassionate funeral home serving the community of Wayne, Pennsylvania. With a rich history and a commitment to providing exceptional service, this funeral home has earned a reputation as one of the most respected in the area. Located at 366 W. Lancaster Ave, Wayne, PA, 19087, The Donohue Funeral Home - Wayne is dedicated to helping families navigate the difficult process of saying goodbye to a loved one.

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For generations, The Donohue Funeral Home - Wayne has been a beacon of hope and comfort for families in need. Founded on a foundation of compassion, empathy, and respect, this funeral home has built a legacy of trust and dedication to its community. From the moment you step through their doors, you'll be greeted with kindness, understanding, and a deep commitment to helping you celebrate the life of your loved one.

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Recent Funeral Home Obituaries

Ned William Hoge - March 03, 1932 - July 20, 2019

Departed: 07/20/2019 (Wayne)

Obituary Preview: Ned William Hoge, 87, of Wayne PA, passed away on July 20, 2019.

Ned was a loving – and much loved - son, brother, husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, and friend. Ned was born to Gustave and Mary (Kuck) Hoge on March 3, 1932 in New Knoxville, OH. He was one of five children and is survived by his brother, Robert Hoge and sister, Ruth List and was predeceased by his brother, Carl Hoge and sister, Mary Ann Hirschfeld.

Ned was married to the late Marilyn Henkener and together they raised two great children – Michael and Cindy. Over the years Ned enjoyed camping adventures with Cindy, rebuilt Corvettes with Michael, and enjoyed nearly 25 years living with Cindy and his grandchildren Ashley, Katie and Ryan in Wayne, PA. He was proud of his son Michael, a professor at Yale, and his sons Chris and Connor.

Ned graduated from New Knoxville High School, served in the Army during the Korean War, and graduated from Ohio State University with a Bachelor of Science and a MBA. He was an accomplished sales and manufacturing executive. Late in his career Ned received a patent for a unique pneumatic controller and launched a company to sell it across the nation. Ned spent his later years renovating homes and fixing almost anything in need of repair. He enjoyed music and photography and was passionate about politics. He had a kind heart and would do anything to help family and friends.

Ned is survived by his loving family including Michael Hoge of Guilford, CT; his wife Nancy Anderson; and their two sons, Christopher Hoge of St. Paul, MN and his wife Kerry Alexander, and Connor Hoge of Palo Alto, CA and his partner Annie Schweikert; and Ned’s daughter Cynthia Kerr of Wayne, PA; her husband Gavin; their daughter Ashley Kerr, her husband Jason Muhlencamp, and their daughter Emily of Moscow, ID; and Katie Holcomb, her husband Jared and their son Jack of Paoli, PA. Ned was very close to Cindy and Gavin’s son Ryan Kerr who passed away in 2008.

Ned lived a great life filled with family, interesting challenges and many successes. He will be deeply missed by all - and none more than his favorite four-legged friend Lily. He buried in a private funeral and interment.

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Stephen Mark Corcoran - April 12, 1956 - July 20, 2019

Departed: 07/20/2019 (Wayne)

Obituary Preview: Stephen Mark Corcoran, age 63, of Glenmoore, PA, passed away on July 20, 2019.

He is remembered by those who loved him most as a fun and loving father, son, fiancé, brother, uncle, and friend.

He is survived by his loving fiancé Pamela Miozza (nee Viering), with whom he resided, his daughter, Megan E. Corcoran, his son Timothy S. Corcoran, sister Julie A. Goodwin (nee Corcoran) wife of Monty Goodwin, brother Robert T. Corcoran husband of Linda Corcoran, nephews Trevor Goodwin, Patrick Corcoran, Thomas Corcoran, and future step-father to Jaclyn N. Miozza and Jillian L. Miozza.

Born in Winchester, MA in 1956, he was the son of the late Francis R. and Rosemary G. (nee Melavin) Corcoran. As a Villanova University alumni, Stephen had a passion for Villanova sports as well as all Philadelphia sports teams. Retired as an Executive Sales Coach after many years with IBM, Cognos, and JD Edwards. He was a true live music enthusiast, and enjoyed traveling with the love of his life, Pamela. He was a loving dog dad to their “girl” Ryleigh. Steve lived life to the fullest and put his all into everything he touched. His infectious laugh and comedic relief will be greatly missed by all. Prior to his death, he was mourning the great loss of his mother with whom he had a very special relationship with.

He loved a lot of different things, and whatever it was he did it to the fullest. From attending the Jazz Fest to fixing stereos, to setting up a resort-style oasis in his backyard, he made it extraordinary.

Relatives and friends are invited to his Visitation 10 AM-12 PM Saturday, July 27, 2019 at The Donohue Funeral Home, 366 W. Lancaster Avenue, Wayne, PA 19087, 610-989-9600, followed by his Memorial Service 12 PM. Interment Calvary Cemetery.

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Maryellen Nerz- Stormes - November 07, 1958 - July 17, 2019

Departed: 07/17/2019 (Wayne)

Obituary Preview: Dr. Maryellen Nerz-Stormes, of Strafford, PA, passed away on July 17, 2019.

Dr. Nerz-Stormes, cherished wife, mother, daughter, and sister, also was a gifted teacher of Organic Chemistry at Bryn Mawr College for more than 30 years and a passionate defender of patient rights and advocacy.

She was born in Hartford, CT and educated at Mount Saint Mary Academy in Newburgh, NY, Mount St. Vincent College (BS in Biochemistry, 1980), and the University of Pennsylvania (Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry, 1985). After a postdoctoral fellowship at the University of North Carolina and a short teaching stint at Wagner College, she began her long and vibrant career at Bryn Mawr College as a Laboratory Lecturer in Chemistry in 1988. She continued teaching there until May of this year.

Dr. Nerz once said, “I feel right. I feel happiest when I am teaching.” The thousands of students who experienced her knowledge, compassion, and humor in her lectures and labs in organic chemistry knew this to be true. Aside from her love of her family, this connection with and love for her students was her greatest passion. Dr. Nerz thrived on devising new ways to present material and inspire learning. She was known for pushing students to think by answering a question with a question and constantly adapting and rewriting her methods of instruction (her approximately 150 YouTube video lab tutorials have been watched 400,000 times). She encouraged her students to embrace change and innovation on a daily basis. She saw teaching and learning as a microcosm of the greater struggle of life: That one must constantly persevere, salvage, and look to fix problems with creative solutions.

As a Bryn Mawr faculty member, she served on numerous committees and supervised and mentored hundreds of students over the years. Her role as Undergraduate Health Professions Advisor allowed her to combine her experience as a cancer survivor with her love of teaching; she was able to enlighten and guide future doctors about the patient experience. From 2004 to 2018 she gave semi-annual talks about the doctor/patient relationship, being her own advocate, sharing her compelling story with pre-medical students.

As a teacher, Dr. Nerz always went the extra mile. She included candy in her exam packets, taught students to crochet, held numerous end of term parties at her home, conducted Saturday office hours, and went to great lengths to care for them as more than students, but as human beings. Not surprisingly, she won two graduate teaching awards at the University of Pennsylvania (1981/83), and, at Bryn Mawr, the Rosalyn R. Schwartz Teaching Award (2000) and the Christian and Mary Lindback Award for Distinguished Teaching (2007), and, from the American Chemical Society (ACS), she won the ACS Award for Excellence in Undergraduate Teaching (2016).

When diagnosed in 2001 with metastatic breast cancer, Dr. Nerz bought the text book on cancer and began what would be an 18-year study of the disease and its treatments. She was inspired to survive as long as possible by her two young sons, who were 10 and 8 at the time of her diagnosis. Learning everything she could, Dr. Nerz became an active participant in her healthcare, pushing her “team” to explore new avenues and concepts. She wanted to serve her doctors by being educated about her disease and contributing research and ideas to her treatment. She found that, as a teacher and chemist, she was well suited to the task. Her science training informed her cancer struggle and her cancer work changed her teaching priorities and style. Over the years, she became a cancer advocate and believed she could use her background to help other patients receive better care. Dr. Nerz’s expertise and knowledge of cancer and the patient experience led her to become an alternate and full member of the Institutional Review Board (IRB), whose goal is to protect patients in clinical trials, at Lankenau, Bryn Mawr, and Paoli Hospitals. Again, it is not surprising that she was honored as a Susan G. Komen Survivor of the year in 2011. However, her greatest source of pride was in her sons’ accomplishments. They are now 28 and 26, fully educated and employed, independent men, but most importantly, good people.

Aside from her major achievements in parenting, surviving, teaching ,and cancer advocacy, Dr. Nerz was an open-minded, altruistic, person of faith. A renaissance woman who was good at pretty much everything she tried, she played field hockey and basketball and was a junior champion golfer in high school. She could sew, crochet, paint, draw, sing, and play the piano and violin. For many years she was a member of her church choir. Her keen eye for style was reflected in her clothing and house décor. She would frequently repaint her walls, make new curtains for windows, and begin ambitious gardening projects. Taking pleasure from her Victorian house, she felt spiritually connected to it, and greatly enjoyed its furnishing and decoration. She knew a lot about baseball and football, and savored a good sports discussion. Dr. Nerz was inherently generous and liked “paying it forward” in large and small ways, to a variety of people. She was great fun and celebrated her 60th birthday with, at her request, karaoke and dancing. She was famous for her unnecessary apologizing and constant thank you’s to everyone she knew.

Dr. Nerz was predeceased by her brother, Donald Joseph Nerz, in 2015. She is survived by her devoted husband of 38 years, Marc J. Stormes, and her beloved sons, Joseph Fidelis (Asma) of Burlington, VT and Clement Andrew (Richa) of Brooklyn, NY, her loving parents, C. Warren and Lorraine H. Nerz, of Fayetteville, NY, her siblings, C. Warren Nerz Jr. (Gail) of Indianapolis, IN, Thomas Nerz (Kristen) of Houston, TX, Caroline Kelly Nerz of Morristown, NJ, Barbara Gregg (Paul) of Massapequa, NY, Honora Eskridge (Toye) of Nashville, TN, and Margaret Iribarne (Jose) of DeWitt, NY, as well as multiple nieces and nephews, friends, colleagues, and countless, adoring students.

Relatives and friends are invited to her viewing Sunday, July 21, 2019 2:00-4:00 PM at The Donohue Funeral Home, 366 W. Lancaster Avenue, Wayne, PA (610) 989-9600 and Monday, July 22, 2019 10:00-11:00 AM at St. Monica Church, 63 Main Avenue, Berwyn, PA and to her Funeral Mass at 11:00 AM. Interment St. Monica Cemetery.

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Sr. Ann Murray, S.H.C.J. - March 30, 1941 - July 13, 2019

Departed: 07/13/2019 (Wayne)

Obituary Preview: Sr. Ann Murray, S.H.C.J., age 78, of Rosemont, PA, passed away on July 13, 2019.

Beloved daughter of the late Michael and Katherine Murray (nee Ferguson). Dear sister of the late Michael Murray. Survived by her cousins Michael and Ann Murray, Michael Murray, Jr., Brian Murray, Edward Murray and Sr. Mary Veronica Morrin, CSJ.

Sister's occupation included Teacher, Religious Education Director, Vocation Director, Coordinator of Chaplaincy Ministry for the Homeless and Hungry in the Bronx, NY and Catholic Charities Counseling Service in the Bronx, NY.

Sister's places of ministry included St. Anastasia School in Waukegan, IL, St. Ignatius School in Chicago, IL, St. Elizabeth and Our Lady of Good Counsel Parishes in New York, NY, and School of the Holy Child in Summit, NJ.

Relatives and friends are invited to her Funeral Mass Saturday, July 20, 2019 at 11:00 AM New Sharon Chapel, 1341 Montgomery Avenue, Rosemont, PA where friends may call in Chapel after 10:00 AM. Interment Calvary Cemetery. A Wake Service will be held on Friday, July 19, 2019 at 4:00 PM.

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Jane J Maguire - July 23, 1926 - July 12, 2019

Departed: 07/12/2019 (Wayne)

Obituary Preview: Jane J. Maguire, 92, of Radnor, PA, formerly of Cape May, NJ, passed away peacefully on July 12, 2019.

Born July 23, 1926 in Philadelphia, PA, she was a daughter of the late Michael and Celia (nee Cunniff) Jordan.

Jane was a graduate of Little Flower Catholic High School for Girls. In her younger days she attended and was employed by the Bessie V. Hicks School of Dramatic Arts in Philadelphia. After retirement, she enjoyed her work at the Cape May City Public Library. Jane was an avid reader, a music lover, and she enjoyed travel, fashion and home decorating. She was a woman of faith, and for many years an active member of Our Lady Star of the Sea Roman Catholic Church in Cape May, NJ.

She was the beloved wife of the late John P. Maguire; a wonderful, loving mother to Kathleen Maguire Sharpe (Jim) and Mary Maguire; and dear grandmother of Andrew N. Sharpe and Kyra D. Sharpe. She was predeceased by her siblings: Mary Fassl, John Jordan, Teresa Gallagher, and James Jordan.

Relatives and friends are invited to her Visitation 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM Thursday, July 18, 2019 at St. Katharine of Siena Roman Catholic Church, 104 S. Aberdeen Ave., Wayne, PA 19087, followed by her Funeral Mass at 11:00 AM. Directly following the Funeral Mass there will be a luncheon at White Dog Café, 200 W. Lancaster Avenue, Wayne, PA 19087, 610-225-3700. Burial will be at 11:00 AM on Monday, July 22, 2019 at The Cape May County Veterans’ Cemetery, 129 Crest Haven Rd., Cape May Court House, NJ 08210.

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Joanna Mayo - November 04, 1939 - July 05, 2019

Departed: 07/05/2019 (Wayne)

Obituary Preview: Joanna Mayo (née Procaccino), November 4, 1939 to July 5, 2019

After a long and well-fought battle, Joanna has gone Home to be with Jesus and is finally healed and whole again.

Devoted wife of 53 years to Leonard and loving mother to Carla Meell (Tim). Adoring Nana to Stephanie Fales (Nicholas) and Rachel Meell.

Joanna was a faithful friend to many, including friends that she’d known since her youth. As a longtime member at Church of the Saviour in Wayne, PA she was a dedicated teacher of the Bible and gave freely of her time and talents over the years. She led many women to eternal life through salvation in Jesus and to a deeper knowledge of God’s Word. Her memory is a blessing to all who knew her.

Survived by her brother, Virgil Procaccino (Neesa), her sisters, Rita Amici (Mario), Linda Woolbert (Michael), and Diane Bender (Bud), and her nieces and nephews.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend her Life Celebration Service on Friday, July 26, 2019 at Church of the Saviour, 651 N. Wayne Avenue, Wayne, PA 19087. Friends may visit with the family from 9:00-10:00 AM and the Service will begin at 10:00 AM. Burial will be private.

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William K. Myrtetus - July 05, 1934 - July 02, 2019

Departed: 07/02/2019 (Wayne)

Obituary Preview: William K. Myrtetus, age 84, of Haverford, PA, passed away on July 2, 2019. Loving father of Carol Ann Myrtetus, Barbara Sturgeon (John) and Susan McCann (Michael). Also survived by his grandchildren Christopher and Alex Gonzalez, Clayton and Caleigh Sturgeon and Connor, Mimi, Christine and Ryan McCann. Brother of the late James, Mimi and Michael Myrtetus.

William was a longtime activist and leader of the Democratic Party. He was a competitive runner until shortly before his passing. He was a proud and active participant in his grandchildren’s lives and activities.

Relatives and friends are invited to visit the family Tuesday, July 9, 2019 6:00-8:00 PM at The Donohue Funeral Home, 366 W. Lancaster Avenue, Wayne, PA (610) 989-9600 and Wednesday, July 10, 2019 9:00-10:15 AM at St. John Neumann Church, 380 Highland Avenue, Bryn Mawr, PA followed by his Funeral Mass at 10:30 AM. Interment private.

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Charles F. Shreiner - February 18, 1924 - July 02, 2019

Departed: 07/02/2019 (Wayne)

Obituary Preview: Charles F. Shreiner, age 94, of Audubon, PA, passed away on July 2, 2019. Born in Philadelphia, PA, he was the son of the late Charles H. and Elsie Shreiner (nee Cartin).

Charles served in the United States Army during World War II. He had been employed as a Professor at St. Joseph University in Philadelphia.

Charles is survived by his beloved wife, Gloria Shreiner (nee Schlichtig), his loving children Kristian Shreiner, David Shreiner and Stephen Shreiner (Meg), dear grandfather of Michael, Samantha and Lexi. Also survived by his sisters Betty Gallagher, Mary Callahan-Rizzo, Nancy Driscoll and Alice Pippett.

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Joseph Andrew Gannon - April 08, 1930 - June 02, 2019

Departed: 06/02/2019 (Wayne)

Obituary Preview: Joseph Andrew Gannon, 89, of Kansas City, Missouri passed away on June 2, 2019. A true Northeasterner, “Joe” was born to parents Joseph and Evelyn (McCune) Gannon on April 8, 1930 in Bridgeport, CT. He graduated from St. Augustine Elementary School in Larchmont, New York and Iona Preparatory School in New Rochelle, New York. A natural tinkerer and engineer through-and-through, Joe completed a degree in Electrical Engineering from Catholic University (as his father did before him) in Washington, D.C.

In 1952, Joe became a Commissioned Ensign in the U.S. Navy. He served on the destroyer USS Cushing DD797 towards the end of the Korean Conflict and became a designated Naval Aviator in 1954. After release from inactive duty in 1954, Joe continued to serve his country and community in the Navy Reserves, serving in various posts, until retiring with the rank of Commander in 1991. He would often share stories of his time on the Cushing, including a collision at sea with another destroyer during a Task Force 77 maneuvering exercise in the waters east of Wonsan, Korea, and the invasion of the Cushing by a swarm of unnaturally large locusts in the dark evening waters of the Gulf of Aden in the Middle East.

In 1958, Joe met and married his wife of 50 years, Maureen (Flanigan). After several years in Mahopac, New York, the couple moved to Wayne, Pennsylvania and together raised five sons: Kevin Michael, Joseph Thomas, Francis Brian, Christopher Damian and William George. He was captivated by the tall beauty and was devoted to her until her death in 2009.

His civilian employment included roles at the U.S. Navy Bureau of Aeronautics (Electronics Division and Guided Missile Branch); General Precision Laboratory; General Electric Re-Entry Systems Division where he worked with UCLA’s Brain Research Institute in connection with their Live Primate 30-Day Biosatellite Mission; and United Engineers & Constructors Inc. His time at UE provided him the opportunity to work with the team engineering and managing the after-effects of the Three Mile Island disaster, as well as providing guidance to the engineers of the Italian Electric Power Corporation for development of a nuclear power plant in the Po River Valley in Milan, Italy. He concluded his professional career with ASTA Engineering Corporation in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

Other notable life experiences include visiting the Buddhist Temple Complex in Bangkok, Thailand, two separate trips to Bavaria with the church choir of Saints John and Paul (Larchmont, NY), conducting engineering surveys of the U.S. State Department Facilities in Seoul, South Korea, Yangon, Myanmar and Jakarta, Indonesia, as well as raising numerous Irish Wolfhounds through the years.

Joe will always be remembered for his sense of humor and a love of puns. He will no doubt be putting the fun in funeral. He was an avid fan of Tom Lehrer, Clark Gesner, The Clancy Brothers, Tommy Makem, Bagpipe music, Sousa Marches (the louder the better) and, unknown to most, British West Isle steel bands. Right up until his death, Joe could share details from a lifetime of avid reading including all things J.R.R. Tolkien, Harry Potter and science fiction.

Joe is survived by his treasured sister, Ginger Markley of Manlius, NY; four sons, Joseph Thomas (Eva) of Brookfield, CT, Francis Brian (Robert) of Philadelphia, PA, Christopher Damian (Celia) of Kansas City, MO and William George (Jessica) of Gilbertsville, PA. He was Grandpa Joe to granddaughters Brittany and Anika and grandson Evan, and beloved Peepaw to grandsons Ian and Colin. He was also “Uncle Joe” to numerous nieces and nephews.

While his final three years were spent with son Chris and daughter-in-law Celia in Kansas City, he was an East Coast boy at heart and will be laid to rest in Pennsylvania with his wife Maureen, his parents and his son Kevin. The family wishes to thank the dedicated staff of Kansas City’s Galway House and Crossroads Hospice for the comfort they provided to him during his final struggles with Parkinson’s Disease.

Funeral services will be held on Friday, July 26 at 11:00 a.m. at the Donohue Funeral Home, 366 Lancaster Ave, Wayne, PA 19087. Interment will immediately follow at Calvary Cemetery, 235 Matsonford Road, Conshohocken, PA 19428. Friends may call on the funeral home one hour prior to the service for visitation and are encouraged to bring their favorite pun.

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Joan M. Katelhon - December 17, 1932 - May 31, 2019

Departed: 05/31/2019 (Wayne)

Obituary Preview: Joan M. Katelhon (nee Witham), age 86, of Radnor, PA, passed away on May 31, 2019. Born in Philadelphia, PA she was the beloved daughter of the late Joseph and Mary Witham (nee Gallagher).

Joan loved to travel, especially to Ireland and the New Jersey Shore. She loved watching the Mummers and attending traditions in Philadelphia. She enjoyed spending time with her sorority sisters and most especially her family.

Joan is the loving wife of Gerald P. Katelhon, Sr. for 61 years; devoted mother of Gerald P. Katelhon, Jr. (Rosemarie), Mark J. Katelhon, Gregory Katelhon, Christine M. Katelhon, and Karen Blair (Stephen); caring grandmother of Kimberely Manuel (Shane), Kevin Katelhon, Thomas Katelhon, Brian Katelhon, Lauren Nascimento, Sarah Nascimento, Brianna Nascimento, Leah Nascimento, Isabella Nascimento, Marcello Nascimento, Sophia Nascimento, Emily Blair, Allison Blair, Ethan Blair, and Charlotte Blair; adoring great-grandmother of Kylor and Kamila. Predeceased by her beloved sisters Mary Karpovich and Patricia Nolan.

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Elaine M. Gruener - April 15, 1927 - May 29, 2019

Departed: 05/29/2019 (Wayne)

Obituary Preview: Elaine M. Gruener (nee Sultzbach), age 92, of Wayne, PA, passed away on May 29, 2019. Born in Philadelphia, PA to the late Frederick and Mildred (nee Palmer) Sultzbach.

Elaine was the beloved wife of Jay Gruener; loving mother of Susan E. Ritter and Mark Gruener (Teresa); and dear brother of Frederick “Skip” Sultzbach. She is also survived by 5 grandchildren and 2 great grandchildren.

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Keith P. Geary - August 02, 1934 - May 27, 2019

Departed: 05/27/2019 (Wayne)

Obituary Preview: Keith Patricia Geary (nee Detwiler), age 84, of Wayne, PA, passed away on May 27, 2019.

Keith was born and raised in Wayne, PA. After graduating from Radnor in 1953, Keith joined the Navy as a WAVE, Women Accepted for Volunteer Emergency Services. Keith received medical training and was assigned to the Bethesda National Naval Medical Center.

After serving for three years Keith requested, and was granted, an honorable discharge so that she could get married.

In addition to raising her family, Keith worked periodically throughout her life. She spent several years as a cashier at Radnor High School cafeteria. After her retirement, she and a friend attended an exercise class at the Wayne Senior Center. One thing led to another and Keith began working at the center as a volunteer. She enjoyed sharing her talent in sewing, quilting, and knitting with others at the Center.

Keith loved the beach, and enjoyed gardening. She had fond memories of tending her grandfather’s victory garden on Conestoga Road and sharing the produce with the less fortunate.

Keith was the beloved wife of the late Robert B. Geary, the loving mother of Janice Rolinski (Curt), Kathryn Viguers (Scott), R. Wesley Geary, Jennifer Wachsmuth (James); caring grandmother of Tara, Merrilee, Sandra, Madison, Sam, Laine. She is survived by her beloved cat Willy. She was predeceased by her brothers Ted and Dave Detwiler.

Relatives and friends are invited to greet her family Monday, June 3, 2019, 10:30 – 11:30 AM at The Donohue Funeral Home, 366 W Lancaster Ave, Wayne, PA 19087, 610-989-9600, followed by her Memorial Service at 11:30 AM. Interment at a later date.

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Bruce W. Tharp - November 15, 1929 - May 18, 2019

Departed: 05/18/2019 (Wayne)

Obituary Preview: Bruce W. Tharp, age 89, of Villanova, PA, on May 18, 2019. Born in Shamokin, PA. Beloved husband of Margaret C. Tharp (nee Campbell). Loving father of David Tharp (Judy), Susan Tymon, Nancy Tymon Kourides (George) and Christopher Tymon. Grandfather of Ben, Sarah, Daniel, Elyse, Jenny and Brittany and great-grandfather of Max, Wilder, Mason and Skylar. Loving brother of Douglas B. Tharp (Claudette).

Former member of the Mendelssohn Club of Philadelphia and current member of the Wayne Oratorio Society.

Relatives and friends are invited to his viewing Tuesday, May 28, 2019 11:00 AM-12:30 PM at The Donohue Funeral Home, 366 W. Lancaster Avenue, Wayne, PA (610) 989-9600 and to his Funeral Service at 12:30 PM. Interment Calvary Cemetery, West Conshohocken, PA.

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Mary E. Callahan - August 22, 1930 - May 15, 2019

Departed: 05/15/2019 (Wayne)

Obituary Preview: Mary E. (nee McCarty) Callahan, age 88, formerly of King of Prussia, passed away on May 15, 2019. Born in Philadelphia to the late Frank and Helen (nee Casey) McCarty.

Mary was the beloved wife of the late John J. Callahan. She was the loving mother of the late James Callahan, Helen Marie Lozano (John), Rosemary Heinze (Wayne), Annamary Callahan, Gracemary Lipnicki (John), Mary Carmel Noone (Tom), John Callahan, Eileen Mary Garner (the late Bob), Frank Callahan (Kim). She is survived by 16 grandchildren, 7 great grandchildren, and a large extended family. She was also predeceased by her dear brother Frank H. McCarty.

She was a very devout Catholic, and taught CCD at Mother of Divine Providence in King of Prussia. She loved vacationing in Ocean City, NJ with her family.

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W. Richard "Dick" McCallion - April 11, 1933 - May 09, 2019

Departed: 05/09/2019 (Wayne)

Obituary Preview: W. Richard “Dick” McCallion, Sr., age 86, of Wayne, PA, passed away on May 9, 2019. Born in West Chester, PA, he was the son of the late Joseph A. and Thelma S. McCallion (nee Sommers).

Dick served in the United States Army during the Korean War era.

He was a Master Plumber and was employed for 23 years at Bryn Mawr Hospital. He loved animals, especially boxers. He was an avid sports fan and loved listening to Country Music.

Dick is survived by his beloved wife of 64 years, Jean N. McCallion (nee Newman), his loving children Sandy Brennan, William Richard McCallion, Jr. (Brenda), Kim Viney (Vince) and Michael McCallion. Also survived by his grandchildren Kelly, Jake, Kyleigh, Vincent, Kayla and Hannah, his siblings Joseph McCallion (Dora) and Robert McCallion (the late Eileen) and many nieces and nephews.

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John J. Farmer, Sr. - December 01, 1929 - May 08, 2019

Departed: 05/08/2019 (Wayne)

Obituary Preview: John Farmer always had a story to tell and some of the best ones were about the rascals, scoundrels and denizens of Hudson County who filled his notebooks when he was a young reporter covering the Democratic machine — then a dominant force in New Jersey politics.

“Vote theft, part of the machine’s winning formula, was not only a crime; it was an art form,” Farmer once wrote, in describing how the party for 30 years always managed to snare the coveted “Row A” position for their candidates on the ballot — a spot where they could be almost guaranteed to garner the most votes.

But that wasn’t what made Farmer laugh out loud in retelling the story. It was when he drove by a Jersey City ward leader’s club, days before the ballot drawing that would determine which party would be on top, and noticed the sign “Vote Democratic — Row A All the Way.” After he pointed out that the ballot drawing was still a week away, the ward leader was flustered, but up to the challenge, insisting the sign was just an expression of faith. “You gotta believe,” he told Farmer. “Who was I to doubt him?” wrote Farmer many years later. “The drawing a week later proved him right.”

Farmer, a longtime columnist for The Star-Ledger whose newspaper sojourns included stints at the Newark Evening News and Philadelphia Bulletin — covering the Statehouse in Trenton, the White House, and dozens of national campaigns dating back to the election of President John F. Kennedy in 1960 — died Wednesday. He was 89.

John died of natural causes at his home in Wayne, PA on May 8, 2019.

A soft-spoken journalist who knew state and national politics like a poker player who knows the next card that’s coming, Farmer covered the ultimate demise of the Democratic machine in Hudson. He also spent months on the campaign trail with presidential candidates from Kennedy and Nixon to Bush and beyond. He was a national correspondent who wrote about the demonstrations against the war in Vietnam, the assassination of Robert Kennedy, the Kent State shootings, the Nixon administration’s involvement in the Chilean coup, the secret bombings of Laos and Cambodia, and the Troubles in Northern Ireland. “He thought of being a newsman as a calling,” said Farmer’s son, John Farmer Jr., the former attorney general of New Jersey who also served as the dean of Rutgers School of Law-Newark. “To him, every story was important and getting it right mattered above all else.”

Despite his long career covering politics, Farmer said he neither identified as a Democrat or a Republican. “I think it’s unwise to give either party a blank check with your vote because over the long haul I don’t see either the Democrats or the Republicans consistently representing the interests of the general public,” he once said in an interview. “They are too beholden to the specials interests that make up their base.”

Born in Jersey City, Farmer was the son of Irish immigrants and the first person in his family to finish high school. A state half-mile champion, he finished third in the national championships while at St. Michael High School in Jersey City, which earned him a scholarship to Seton Hall University, said his son. He graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in English in 1951 and was promptly drafted into the U.S. Army and sent to Korea, where he was assigned to army intelligence.

“His service on the front lines led him to disdain political leaders who avoided service and later sought the power to put others’ lives at risk,” said John Farmer Jr.

His career began as a police reporter in Harrison and a political reporter in Hudson County, before he was sent to cover the Statehouse for the Newark Evening News. He went to Washington for the Newark News — then the state’s leading newspaper — where he served as its White House correspondent. After the paper shut down in 1972, he joined the Philadelphia Bulletin and served as that paper's White House correspondent, later becoming its city editor and then its national editor.

He also served for a year as Gov. Brendan Byrne’s press secretary before joining The Star-Ledger as a columnist, and later becoming the paper’s editorial page editor.

“For John, politics demonstrated the best and worst of what grownups could get themselves up to. He understood it as a kind of theater, filled with both heroes and scoundrels. And he loved writing about it, because for all its excesses, he valued politics as essential to the way democracy is supposed to work,” said retired Star-Ledger editor Jim Willse.

For many in the newsroom, Farmer was a voice of confidence and experience in an arena of often hidden backroom deals and shifting political sands that had impact far beyond the corridors of power he covered.

“He was an inspiration to me and countless others of how to speak truth to power without snark,” said retired investigations editor Tom Curran.

Farmer was able to write with a deep perspective, after covering state and national politics for decades, noted former Star-Ledger Washington Bureau reporter Robert Cohen. “He really knew the inner workings of politics,” Cohen said. “He liked to talk and used that to glean information from his sources. He knew how to engage the pols at their level.” At the same time, he observed that Farmer never lost his appetite for journalism or his enthusiasm for a good story. “He was constantly intrigued,” Cohen said. “It’s so easy to be cynical in this business, but I never detected that from him. I think he loved what he was doing.”

At the Democratic National Convention at the Fleet Center in Boston in July 2004, retired Star-Ledger op-ed columnist Fran Wood remembered Farmer never seemed to feel the deadline pressure.

“During the early part of the evening’s speeches, John would wander into the convention hall to get a feel for the crowd and talk with journalists he knew. Then he’d return to The Star-Ledger bureau and position himself in front of the TV, his demeanor as relaxed as if he were watching the evening news,” Wood recalled.

"With neither pen nor notebook in hand, he’d rifle through a few speech copies that had been distributed and dog-ear a page or two, absorbing what he needed. Sometime during the last speech, deadline looming, he would move to a computer and start tapping out his column,” she said. “Twenty minutes later — thirty tops — he was done,” Wood recounted. "Grabbing his sports jacket from the back of his chair, he’d ask, ‘Who’s ready for drinks and dinner?’”

Farmer’s last column for the paper was in April, when he wrote about the fire that ravaged Notre Dame, and yet failed to destroy the famous cathedral in Paris. “What makes the French feeling for the great cathedral so unique is that France is perhaps the most secular society in Christendom. Seems contradictory, doesn’t it? But it’s not,” he wrote. “The special place of Notre Dame — for the rest of us, as well as for the French — is rooted in cultural memory and something as déclassé as nostalgia, a part of all history. The gaps left by nostalgia we fill with myth, which is much of the stuff of history.” Farmer wrote that Notre Dame’s contribution to myth may lie with the beliefs that among the relics rescued from the fire were a portion of the true cross and the crown of thorns Christ wore at his crucifixion. “Are they true?” he asked. “Hard to know. But it matters little. For myth is part of the belief system to which most of us cherish and adhere. It helps fill the gaps that might otherwise undermine our beliefs and the comfort that comes with having something in which to believe.”

John is survived by his beloved wife, Jane M. Farmer (nee Browne), his loving children Janellen Farmer (William E. Vogan), John J. Farmer Jr. (Beth Gates), Nancy F. Apple (W.B. Apple, III, Ph.D), and Susan M. Chase (Raymond L. Chase, Jr.). Dear grandfather of Sarah, Ian, Ryan, Ray, Tyler, Austin, Julia, Olivia, and Will and great-grandfather of Liam and Nora. He was the brother of the late Rosaleen Fallon.

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Paul J. Gormley - March 31, 1935 - May 08, 2019

Departed: 05/08/2019 (Wayne)

Obituary Preview: Paul J. Gormley of Devon, age 84, passed away peacefully on May 8 after a heroic battle with cancer, surrounded by Diana, his wife of 34 years, and many children.

He graduated from Bishop Loughlin High School in Brooklyn, NY and Villanova University (’57). Paul taught Math and Computer Science at Villanova for 43 years. In retirement he became fluent in Spanish and was a volunteer interpreter at CVIM in West Chester for 16 years. He made several trips to Peru to do mission work. He was an avid fan and supporter of Villanova Basketball and the Phillies. He and Diana loved to travel and visited more than 30 countries. Everyone knew his political leanings and he was looking forward to 2020!

Paul is survived by Diana, five children: Paula Tansey (Dave), Katie Gentile (Jean), Meg McKenna, Thomas Gormley (Jill), and Christine Anderson (Bill), and three step-children: Allen Purkiss (Shira), Christopher Purkiss (Sarah) and Cyndi Speight (Petr), 17 grandchildren and a great-granddaughter.

Relatives and friends are invited to a Celebration of Life Service at 2:00 PM on Saturday, June 15, 2019 in the Villanova Room, Connelly Center, Villanova University, 800 E. Lancaster Avenue, Villanova, PA 19085.

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Dolores "Dee" Bluemle - November 15, 1928 - May 03, 2019

Departed: 05/03/2019 (Wayne)

Obituary Preview: Dolores “Dee” Bluemle (née Batdorf) passed away on May 3, 2019. Born in 1928 in Williamstown, Pennsylvania, Dee was the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. John H. Batdorf, and the eldest of their four children. Growing up, Dee was a noted scholar who read every book in the town’s library, played the church organ on Sundays, and developed a lifelong love of baseball from her father. As valedictorian of her high school, Dee received a scholarship to Misericordia University. After earning her Bachelor of Science degree, she deferred a subsequent scholarship for a graduate degree in microbiology to begin working at the University of Pennsylvania.

While at Penn, Dee met and married Dr. Lewis W. “Bill” Bluemle, Jr. in 1953. For several years, Dee continued to work alongside her husband in his lab as he became Director of the Clinical Research Center and associate Dean at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania. As Bill’s responsibilities grew in academic medicine from the 1950’s to the 1990’s, he became President of Upstate Medical Center (SUNY) in Syracuse, New York, President of the University of Oregon’s Health Science Center in Portland, Oregon, and President of Thomas Jefferson University in Philadelphia. Dee successfully transplanted their growing family from coast to coast, creating beautiful homes and gardens for them to enjoy, before returning to Philadelphia for good in 1977. Dee was a natural at entertaining and was often the life of the party. Many of their medical colleagues in each city became friends who remain close to this day.

For the past 40 years, Bill and Dee enjoyed restoring their historic home in Bryn Mawr, where Bill was the skilled craftsman but she was definitely the boss. Dee loved nothing more than listening to a Phillies day-game on the radio as she worked in her garden alongside her trusty dog on a sunny summer day. She raised her children to love books and knowledge, although none of them could match her ability to quote Shakespeare or reference ancient history. Dee and Bill ended their weeks together on Friday afternoons at the Philadelphia Orchestra, and enjoyed (rare) vacations at their second home in Avalon, New Jersey.

After supporting them for so many years, Dee was beautifully cared for by her husband, children and friends in the later years of her life. In addition to her parents John H. and Isabelle (Walkinshaw) Batdorf, Dee was predeceased by her first three children, and one brother, Lawrence (Mary) Batdorf. She is survived by Bill, her loving husband of 66 years, her brother Jack (Barbara) Batdorf and sister Lynda (George) Usuka, son Chris (Julie), daughters Lauren, Susan, and Amy (David), six grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews.

Relatives and friends are invited to her viewing Friday, May 10, 2019 6:00-8:00 PM at The Donohue Funeral Home, 366 W. Lancaster Avenue, Wayne, PA 19087, 610-989-9600, followed by her Funeral Mass on Saturday, May 11, 2019 12:00 PM at St. Katharine of Siena, 104 S. Aberdeen Avenue, Wayne, PA 19087. Interment Calvary Cemetery, Conshohocken, PA.

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Jennifer Grace Voiner - February 16, 1977 - April 05, 2019

Departed: 04/05/2019 (Wayne)

Obituary Preview: Jennifer Grace Voiner, 42, of Bryn Mawr, PA, passed away April 5, 2019.

Born February 16, 1977 in Long Island, NY, she was the daughter of the John Terry and Janis (nee Westfall) Grace.

Jeni graduated from Ursinus College in 1999 with a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and Sociology. She went on to attend the University of Pennsylvania School of Social Work where she earned a Master’s degree in 2001. It was while at Penn that she met the love of her life, Jonathan Voiner, whom she married in 2004. After graduating, she worked with troubled kids and families in the Philadelphia School District. She later earned a Master’s degree in Education from Drexel University.

Since her first child, Lily, was born in December of 2008, she became the most amazing mother in the world and realized her true calling. She was very active in the Radnor Elementary School PTO and the numerous activities that the children participated in. Her lovely personality and dedication to the children have helped shape them into the wonderful people they are.

Jeni had a profound love of music. Some of her favorite memories were spending time with her friends taking in live music. She played viola in the University of Pennsylvania Symphony Orchestra from 1999-2008. This afforded her the opportunity to travel across the world to China and Hong Kong. For the last eight years, she has been a member of the Main Line Symphony Orchestra, recently serving as secretary of the organization. She brought joy and happiness to all through her orchestra concerts.

Jeni loved people and always considered the feelings and needs of others. She had the ability to make everyone feel at ease. When talking with her, you felt as if you were the only person in the room. She could talk to, feel comfortable with, and relate to people from all walks of life. Through focusing on the happiness of others, the positivity was returned to her and allowed her perpetual happiness.

She was one with the outdoors. Through high school and early adulthood she worked as a lifeguard at the pools and beaches of Long Island. She loved the mountains and skiing. She enjoyed hiking and camping at the wondrous National and State Parks of our fine country.

She was the beloved wife of Dr. Jonathan L. Voiner; loving mother of Lily, Jackson, Tyler, and Quinn; and dear sister of John Grace (Linda) and Christopher Grace (Mara).

Relatives and friends are invited to her Viewing Wednesday 5:00 to 8:00 PM April 10, 2019 at The Donohue Funeral Home, 366 W. Lancaster Ave., Wayne, PA 19087 610-989-9600 and Thursday 9:30 to 10:45 AM at St. Thomas of Villanova, University Campus, 800 E. Lancaster Avenue, Villanova, PA 19085, followed by her Funeral Mass 11:00 AM. Interment Private.

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Helen M. Calvarese - April 02, 1925 - April 04, 2019

Departed: 04/04/2019 (Wayne)

Obituary Preview: Helen M. Calvarese (nee Mastrilli), age 94, of West Chester, PA, formerly of Wayne, PA and Ardmore, PA, passed away on April 4, 2019. Helen was the daughter of the late Natale and Mary Mastrilli (nee Norcini).

In addition to her parents, Helen was predeceased by her beloved husband, John G. Calvarese, Sr., her granddaughter, Angel Braceland, and her great-grandson, Andrew Cox. She is survived by her loving children John G. Calvarese (Jeannie), Patricia A. Colucci (Joe) and Rosemary C. Braceland (Don). Also survived by her grandchildren Joe, Cory, Eric, Ryan, John and Jennifer and her great-grandchildren Evan, Nathan, Ava and Sophia.

Relatives and friends are invited to her viewing Thursday, April 11, 2019 7:00-9:00 PM at The Donohue Funeral Home, 366 W. Lancaster Avenue, Wayne, PA (610) 989-9600 and to her Funeral Mass Friday, April 12, 2019 at 10:30 AM at Our Lady of the Assumption Church, 35 Old Eagle School Road, Strafford, PA. Interment Calvary Cemetery, West Conshohocken, PA.

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Marie M. Crimmins - September 25, 1933 - March 15, 2019

Departed: 03/15/2019 (Wayne)

Obituary Preview: Marie M. Crimmins, age 85, of Wayne, PA, passed away on March 15, 2019. Born in Norristown, PA, she was the daughter of the late Joseph M. and Marie M. Crimmins (nee Keeney).

Marie had been employed as the Medical Records Director at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia.

Marie was the sister of Joanne Crimmins Koegler (the late John T.) and the late Joseph M. Crimmins, Jr. She is survived by her 9 nieces and nephews Helen C. Rosica (Albert), Kathleen M. Crimmins, Marie C. Poole (Douglas), Susan C. Gavigan (Kevin), Joseph M. Crimmins (Andrea), Amy K. Pascali (Michael), John P. Koegler (Alicia), Michael P. Koegler and Kathleen K. VanArsdalen (Darin) and 11 great-nieces and nephews.

Relatives and friends are invited to her viewing Wednesday, March 20, 2019 6:00-8:00 PM at The Donohue Funeral Home, 366 W. Lancaster Avenue, Wayne, PA (610) 989-9600 and to her Funeral Mass Thursday, March 21, 2019 at 11:00 AM at Mother of Divine Providence Church, 333 Allendale Road, King of Prussia, PA. Interment St. Patrick Cemetery, Norristown, PA.

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Julia Lynne "Jules" Bitto - June 06, 2012 - March 14, 2019

Departed: 03/14/2019 (Wayne)

Obituary Preview: Julia Lynne “Jules” Bitto, 6, of Malvern, PA went to her forever home on the evening of March 14, 2019. Julia's passing comes nearly 19-months after being diagnosed with DIPG-Diffuse Intrinsic Pontine Glioma, a rare and aggressive form of pediatric brain cancer.

Born to Timothy Paul Bitto and Christy Petty Bitto, Julia lived in Malvern, PA after the family moved from Conshohocken, PA in 2014. She attended For Kids’ Sake pre-school and General Wayne Elementary School along with her big brother Colin James Bitto, 8. Julia's personality was larger than life, and she had a smile that could light up a room to go with it. She especially loved performing and took dance classes at Bowman Dance Company and School where her teacher lovingly referred to her as her “front and center girl.”

When she wasn’t dancing, you could find her outside with her family taking a dip in the hot tub or riding scooters and playing whiffle ball with her brother and the neighborhood kids. In the summer she loved going to Rehoboth beach where running from the waves was a favorite activity and swimming in the pool was a must! No trip to the beach was complete without hitting the rides at Fun Land, a quick stop at Kohr Bros. for ice cream and sitting down to dinner at Nicola Pizza. Pizza was a staple in her diet at home as well. She enjoyed regular visits to see her friends at Venice Pizza and had a weakness for their Greek salad with homemade dressing! Julia also had a sweet tooth. At the top of her sweets list were Reese’s peanut butter cups, peanut M&M’s and Nilla wafers (which Santa delivered this past Christmas fulfilling her wish for 100 boxes!)

On August 29, 2017, Julia was diagnosed with DIPG, an inoperable, terminal brain tumor intertwined within her brainstem. Like a true warrior, Julia completed 30 radiation treatments while continuing to go to kindergarten. She then participated in a clinical trial at CHOP but after nine short months her symptoms returned and Julia went back to Penn for further radiation treatments. Julia was then able to enjoy the summer and even started 1st grade while waiting for a spot on a new trial out of NYU. Late September of 2018 she was accepted into the trial but sadly, a month later, her symptoms returned once again. Julia powered through yet a third round of radiation and was able to continue on the trial drug until February when her lung collapsed. While at the hospital, her family was told that Julia had only days or weeks to live, so they brought her home and made her as comfortable as possible until her passing 3 weeks later. Throughout it all, Julia found ways to enjoy life no matter what DIPG threw at her.

Julia will be dearly missed by her devoted father, mother and brother along with maternal grandparents, Don and Sue Petty of Rehoboth Beach, DE and paternal grandparents, Don and Donna Bitto of Lansdale, PA, aunt Sarah Bitto of Phoenixville, PA, aunts and uncles: Don (Madeline Brown) Bitto of Downingtown, PA and George (Robyne) Bertele and cousin Nathan Bertele of Langhorne, PA.

A memorial service for Julia will take place at Main Line Unitarian Church-816 S Valley Forge Rd, Devon, PA on Saturday, March 23rd at 11 a.m. Family and friends will be received beginning at 9 a.m. at the church. There will be a Celebration of Life reception immediately following the service across the street at St. David’s Episcopal Church-763 Valley Forge Rd. Please honor Julia by wearing her favorite colors of turquoise and purple. All who loved her including children are welcome to attend.

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Elsi Maria Brown Barnes - June 26, 1937 - March 12, 2019

Departed: 03/12/2019 (Wayne)

Obituary Preview: Elsi Maria Brown Barnes, age 81, passed away peacefully at her home in Radnor, Pennsylvania on March 11, 2019.

She is survived by her husband Frank Whitney Barnes and by three daughters, Barbara Barnes (Michael) Stephano, Laurie Barnes (Jack) Foy, and Kelly Barnes (Chris) Hoey as well as five grandsons, Grant Stephano, Blake Stephano, Chase Stephano, Wyatt Foy, and Drew Reardon. In addition, she is survived by her in-laws, Walter Asche, Joyce Barnes Stone and Charles Barnes and predeceased by her parents and sister Anna Brown Asche.

Elsi Maria Brown was born on June 26, 1937 in Hartford, Connecticut to two German immigrants, Joseph Brown (formerly Braun) and Barbara Seidl, whom she cherished for all of her life. Her beginnings were humble, but so rich in love, family and faith. She felt she had the best parents in the world, and amazingly, never once uttered a word against either. She was followed by a younger sister, Anna Katherine, a few years later. Both sisters grew up surrounded by loving aunts, uncles and cousins whom they loved to laugh and joke with in their hometown of East Hartford.

Her life was full of Friday nights at their German Club, called the Hartford Leiderkranz, attending St. Rose’s Church every Sunday, cheerleading and sports. She graduated top of her class and was proud to be named Captain of the Red Team. She loved competing in any sport, but especially in basketball. In her German home, Instead of eating mashed potatoes, they ate bread or potato dumplings called “knodels”; instead of saying good night, it was “gute nacht.” Traditions she carried on with her own daughters and grandsons.

At the age of 16, Elsi met Frank AKA Buzzard Barnes and they were married a few days before her 21st birthday. The beginning of their 60 year marriage began with Elsi being the provider while Frank obtained his Master’s Degree. Frank often commented how she would only alot him one dollar a day, sending him off with daily lunches consisting of wheat germ and milk so that they could save money for a house. They moved from East Hartford to Annapolis, Abington, and Rochester and finally, Radnor in 1972.

Over the course of their 60 year marriage, they were blessed to tour countless countries and share these experiences with various friends and family. Most important to her, however, was always spending time with her family at home, which included daily phone calls and big Sunday dinners. Elsi didn’t want to miss anything going on with her girls or grandsons and always called to find out the latest grades, or sports scores. She loved her daughters all being close by and regularly told them how very blessed she was. She relished her morning walks with girlfriends, Radnor Ski Trips, her luncheon groups at Belrose with the old Rowland Elementary Gang and those with her tennis pals at Aronimink.

Elsi was a “people person” and had the ability to get along with anyone and everyone. She was drawn to various clubs such as the PTA, her neighborhood association, Garden Club, Devon Horse Show, Junior League and Christmas House Tours. She believed that having a lot of friends was important and enjoyed hosting their annual Super Bowl and Christmas parties or tennis round robbins. Consistent with her favorite saying that the “early bird got the worm,” holidays were on a serious schedule. Christmas gifts were bought in September just in case one of the kids got sick; the day after Thanksgiving, the house and dining room table were decorated for Christmas; the day after Christmas, the table was ready for New Year's.

What she will always be remembered for, however, will be waking her daughters up in the morning singing “rise and shine,” always being a shoulder to cry on, typing papers late into the night, and warming her daughters up for tennis matches, just as if she was about to about to walk onto the court herself. In fact, there are many that remember loud gasps coming from outside the court from a certain mom just as one of her daughters was about to hit a second serve! She made others the best they could be, pushing them academically and athletically, always reminding that hard work was second to none. She rejoiced in every achievement, and endured every pain. She was the ultimate supporter, cheerleader and teacher.

With three daughters, the house was full of sleep overs and girl gossip. And she truly loved every minute of our girlfriends telling her the latest tale! As each married, there became a “balance in the force.” Elsi was blessed with the unconditional love and support of her three sons-in-law. The once “girl house” subsequently switched to a home dominated by grandsons, legos and trains. She never failed to remind her daughters that the job of being a mother was the most important job that one would ever hold. She loved to cook big dinners on the weekends in case a group rolled through the door, which always lit up her day. She adored each and every one of her five grandsons and cherished watching them in little league, basketball and football games, track meets, concerts and school plays.

In the few weeks before her stroke on July 8th, Elsi and Frank were blessed to celebrate their 60th wedding anniversary. She soaked up the sun and even enjoyed one last dip in the pool. After her stroke, she fought hard for 8 long months, surrounded by friends and family. Elsi was our shooting star, the beating heart of our home. Her daily presence will be dearly missed, but she will never, ever be forgotten.

Friends and relatives are invited to her visitation this Friday, March 15th from 5:00-8:00 pm at The Donohue Funeral Home located at 366 Lancaster Avenue, Wayne, PA 19087. On Saturday, March 16th, there will be a 10:30 AM Mass of Christian Burial at St. Katharine of Siena Church, 104 S. Aberdeen Avenue, Wayne, PA followed by interment at Calvary Cemetery located at 235 Matsonford Road, West Conshohocken, PA 19428.

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Joyce C. Barrett - December 20, 1929 - March 12, 2019

Departed: 03/12/2019 (Wayne)

Obituary Preview: Joyce C. Barrett, 89, of Wayne, PA, decided, along with God, that she was ready for the next adventure, (though we are sure she debated the timing, and who was really in charge). She was a woman who lived and died on her terms. Her amazing hospice nurse commented one day, “wow she is not following any of the rules”. And we said, “Welcome to the Joyce show”.

She was predeceased by her beloved daughter Lauren, and former husband Bud. Surviving to tell the tales and surely embellish are her children, Chip Barrett (Krissy), Patrice Sullivan (Jim), Mary Christina Ryan (Joe), Samantha McKinlay, Matt Barrett, Ben Barrett (Kim), and son like friend, Anthony Fred Calloway. Additionally, 17 grandchildren and 3 great grandchildren have wonderful “Joycie” memories. Lastly, treasured friendships that spanned her life.

She went to college at Manhattanville, studied at the Sorbonne, married, had 7 easy perfect no headaches children, a career in real estate that she adored, and then, well then she got busy. As her nephew said, “she did more later in her life than most of us will do in our whole life”. She traveled to multiple countries, and had varied experiences – in her 70’s she built a house with Habitat for Humanity. In her 80’s she and a bestie from college rented an apartment in Paris for 2 weeks so they could eat croissants, drink coffee, and watch the world go by from their terrace. Chip said it best, “she had a curiosity for life”.

Relatives and friends are invited to her Visitation 9-10 AM, Wednesday, March 20, 2019 at St. Katherine of Siena Church, 104 S. Aberdeen Ave, Wayne, PA, and Mass following at 10 AM.

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Dolores M. Mac Nichol - September 24, 1930 - March 09, 2019

Departed: 03/09/2019 (Wayne)

Obituary Preview: Dolores M. Mac Nichol (nee Cinalli), 88, of Audubon, PA, formerly of Drexel Hill, PA, passed away March 9, 2019.

Born September 24, 1930 in Philadelphia, PA, she was a daughter of the late John and Rose (nee Andressie) Cinalli.

She was the beloved wife of George Mac Nichol; loving mother of Linda R. Mac Nichol, Glenn E. Mac Nichol (Anna), Brian J. Mac Nichol (Marie), and Stephen G. Mac Nichol (Leslie); adoring grandmother of Paul, Catherine, Matthew, Jamie, Brielle, Meghan, and Alec; and dear sister of Elizabeth Catalano, and Eileen Serra. She was predeceased by her sister Joan Schneider and brother John Cinalli.

Relatives and friends are invited to her visitation from 10:15 to 10:45 Saturday, March 16, 2019 at St. Thomas of Villanova, University Campus, 800 E. Lancaster Avenue, Villanova, PA 19085, followed by her Funeral Mass 11:00 AM. Interment at Calvary Cemetery.

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Personalized Funeral Services

No two lives are alike, and at The Donohue Funeral Home - Wayne, they understand that every family deserves a unique and personalized farewell. Their experienced team will work closely with you to craft a customized funeral service that honors your loved one's memory, personality, and spirit. Whether you prefer a traditional funeral, cremation, or something more modern and non-traditional, they'll guide you every step of the way.

A Wide Range of Funeral Options

The Donohue Funeral Home - Wayne offers an extensive range of funeral options to suit every family's needs and preferences. From traditional funerals with visitation and burial to cremation services with memorialization options, they'll help you choose the perfect way to say goodbye. They also provide specialty services, such as veteran's funerals, green funerals, and celebrations of life.

State-of-the-Art Facilities

The Donohue Funeral Home - Wayne is proud to offer state-of-the-art facilities designed to provide comfort and convenience for families during their time of need. Their beautifully appointed chapels, visitation rooms, and reception areas are warm and inviting, creating a peaceful atmosphere for reflection and remembrance. Ample parking and convenient accessibility ensure that all guests can participate in the funeral service without worry.

Experienced and Compassionate Staff

The staff at The Donohue Funeral Home - Wayne are dedicated professionals who understand the importance of compassion, empathy, and attention to detail. Led by experienced funeral directors and support staff, they'll guide you through every aspect of the funeral planning process with kindness, patience, and understanding. From helping you select the perfect casket or urn to coordinating logistics and paperwork, they'll take care of everything so you can focus on what matters most – celebrating the life of your loved one.

Community Involvement and Support

The Donohue Funeral Home - Wayne is deeply committed to giving back to their community. They participate in local charities, sponsor community events, and provide educational resources to help families cope with loss. Their staff is also active in supporting bereavement groups and counseling services, ensuring that those who have lost a loved one receive the support they need during their time of grief.

Pre-Planning and Aftercare Services

The Donohue Funeral Home - Wayne understands that planning ahead can bring peace of mind and alleviate stress for families during difficult times. They offer pre-planning services that allow individuals to make their own funeral arrangements in advance, ensuring that their wishes are respected and their loved ones are spared from making difficult decisions. Additionally, they provide aftercare services, including grief support groups and online resources, to help families navigate the healing process.

Contacting The Donohue Funeral Home - Wayne

If you're looking for a trusted partner to help you navigate the funeral planning process with compassion, dignity, and respect, look no further than The Donohue Funeral Home - Wayne. Contact them today to learn more about their services, schedule a consultation, or simply ask questions about the funeral planning process. You can reach them by phone at [phone number], email at [email address], or by visiting their website at [website URL]. Remember, when it comes to honoring the life of your loved one, The Donohue Funeral Home - Wayne is here to help.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an obituary?

An obituary is a written notice that announces the death of a person, typically including their name, age, date of birth and death, and a brief biography. It serves as a way to share the news of a loved one's passing with family, friends, and community.

Why are obituaries important?

Obituaries are important because they provide a way to honor and celebrate the life of the deceased, while also informing others of their passing. They can also serve as a keepsake for family and friends to remember their loved one.

Who typically writes an obituary?

The responsibility of writing an obituary usually falls on the family members or close friends of the deceased. In some cases, a funeral home or crematorium may offer to write the obituary on behalf of the family.

What information should be included in an obituary?

A typical obituary includes the person's name, age, date of birth and death, place of residence, occupation, education, military service, hobbies, and surviving family members. It may also include a brief biography, accomplishments, and any notable achievements.

How long should an obituary be?

The length of an obituary can vary depending on the publication or online platform. Typically, it ranges from 100 to 500 words. However, some online platforms may allow for longer or more detailed obituaries.

Can I include photos in an obituary?

Yes, many publications and online platforms allow you to include photos in an obituary. This can be a great way to personalize the tribute and make it more meaningful.

How do I submit an obituary to a newspaper or online platform?

The process for submitting an obituary varies depending on the publication or platform. You can usually find submission guidelines on their website or by contacting them directly. Be prepared to provide the written obituary, along with any photos or other requested information.

How much does it cost to publish an obituary?

The cost of publishing an obituary varies widely depending on the publication or platform. Some newspapers may charge by the word or line, while others may offer package deals. Online platforms may offer free or low-cost options.

Can I write my own obituary in advance?

Yes, it's becoming increasingly common for people to write their own obituaries in advance. This can be a therapeutic exercise and ensure that your life is celebrated in the way you want.

What is the difference between an obituary and a death notice?

A death notice is a brief announcement of someone's passing, usually including only basic information such as name, age, and date of death. An obituary is a more detailed tribute that includes biographical information and often celebrates the person's life.

Can I include humor in an obituary?

Absolutely! Humor can be a great way to celebrate someone's personality and make the obituary more engaging. Just be sure to keep it respectful and tasteful.

How do I handle sensitive or private information in an obituary?

If there are sensitive or private aspects of the person's life that you don't want to share publicly, it's best to omit them from the obituary. You can always share those details privately with close friends and family.

Can I include quotes or lyrics in an obituary?

Yes, quotes or lyrics that were meaningful to the person can be a great way to add depth and personality to the obituary.

How long does it take for an obituary to be published?

The timeframe for publishing an obituary varies depending on the publication or platform. Some may publish immediately, while others may take several days or even weeks.

Can I make changes to an obituary after it's been published?

In some cases, yes. If you need to make corrections or updates to an obituary after it's been published, contact the publication or platform directly to see if they can accommodate your request.

What if I want to keep the obituary private?

If you prefer not to share the obituary publicly, you can choose to keep it private by sharing it only with close friends and family through email or social media.

Can I republish an obituary at a later date?

Yes, you can republish an obituary at a later date, such as on anniversaries or special occasions. This can be a meaningful way to continue celebrating the person's life.

How do I handle errors or inaccuracies in an obituary?

If you notice errors or inaccuracies in an obituary, contact the publication or platform immediately so they can correct it as soon as possible.

Can I include charitable donations in lieu of flowers in an obituary?

Yes, many families choose to include information about charitable donations in lieu of flowers in the obituary. This can be a meaningful way to honor their loved one's memory.

How do I preserve an online obituary over time?

Many online platforms allow you to save or print out copies of the obituary for preservation. You can also consider creating a physical scrapbook or memory book with printed copies of the obituary.

What if I'm struggling to write an obituary due to grief?

If you're finding it difficult to write an obituary due to grief, consider asking a friend or family member for help. You can also take breaks and come back to it when you're feeling more emotional clarity.

Can I include stories or anecdotes in an obituary?

Absolutely! Including stories or anecdotes about the person's life can make the obituary more engaging and personal.

How do I ensure that everyone sees the obituary who needs to?

To ensure that everyone sees the obituary who needs to, consider sharing it through multiple channels such as social media, email, and local newspapers. You can also ask friends and family members to help spread the word.

What if I want to create a memorial website or page instead of an obituary?

You can create a memorial website or page as a way to celebrate your loved one's life and share memories with others. Many online platforms offer tools and resources for creating these types of tributes.

Can I include videos or audio clips in an online obituary?