Claude “Captain Butch” Bennett, 61, of Frederica, Del., passed away on Friday, Oct. 7, 2016, at Beebe Healthcare, in Lewes, Del. He was born Sunday, Nov. 28, 1954, in Wilmington, Del., son of the late Richard J. Bennett and Nancy (Day) Bennett.

Bennett was born and raised in Wilmington and was a graduate of Christiana High School, after which he began a lifelong career in the sport-fishing industry. He worked for Sun Marine in Selbyville, Del., for several years and was a private captain for countless boats, fishing up and down the coast over the years. A very accomplished and respected fisherman, he loved tournaments and won numerous competitions, including the White Marlin Open. He also enjoyed surf-fishing, the Redskins and NASCAR.

Bennett was known as a fun guy. He always had a smile on his face and was usually laughing about something. He was an adventurer and traveler, and he loved camping with his kids. Bennett was a loving and devoted father, grandfather, brother and friend, who will be greatly missed by everyone who had the opportunity to know him.

In addition to his parents, Bennett was preceded in death by his brother, James R. Bennett. He is survived by his son, Toby Bennett and his wife, Lexi, of Wilmington; his daughters, Keri Pottratz and her husband, York, of Palm Beach Gardens, Fla., and Claudia Burns and her husband, Don, of Paso Robles, Calif.; his brother, Richard J. Bennett Jr. and his wife, Sue, of Florence, S.C.; his sisters, Nancy High and her husband, Clifford, of Glasgow, Del., and JoAlice Casapulla and her fiancé, Bobby Whited, of Millsboro, Del.; and his grandchildren, Willow, Madison, Wyland and Ronan.

A celebration of Bennett’s life will be announced at a later date. Arrangements are being handled by Parsell Funeral Homes & Crematorium, Atkins-Lodge Chapel, Lewes, Del. In lieu of flowers, the family suggested memorial contributions to www.inlandbays.org. Condolences may be sent online at www.parsellfuneralhomes.com.

Donald H. “Don” Blanshaft, 79, of Dagsboro, Del., formerly of Staten Island, N.Y., passed away on Wednesday, Oct. 12, 2016, at his home. He was born in Brooklyn, N.Y., son of the late Carl Blanshaft and Dorothy (Gold) Blanshaft.

Blanshaft proudly served his country in the United States Air Force from 1955 to 1959 and then served in the United States Army Reserves, retiring in 1986 after 28 years. Blanshaft retired as a police officer with the New York Police Depatment in 1984 after a successful career on the force, with 22 years of service. He also worked as a customs agent at the John F. Kennedy International Airport for 10 years, until his complete retirement and move to Delaware in 2001. He enjoyed spending time with his family and friends.

Blanshaft is survived by his loving wife of 51 years, Ann C. (Trotta) Blanshaft; two children, Kimberly Blanshaft of Aberdeen, N.J., and Stephen Blanshaft of Naples, Fla.; and a brother, Michael Blanshaft, and his family.

A service was to be held at 2 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 20, 2016, at the Delaware Veterans Memorial Cemetery, 26669 Patriots Way, Millsboro, Del., A gathering at the family home will follow the interment. In lieu of flowers, the family suggested memorial contributions to the Sussex County SPCA, by visiting www.delspca.org. Condolences may be sent online at www.melsonfuneralservices.com.

Kathy Connor passed away Oct. 3, 2016, after a long battle with breast cancer.

Connor was preceded in death by her husband, Edward, in 2004. She was survived by her seven children, Pat Connor and his wife, Melanie, Dorothy Atherton and her husband, Mark, Theresa Molinelli and her husband, Paul, Kathleen Morgan and her husband, Jerry, Colleen Connor and her husband, Chad Jacobs, Kevin Connor and his wife, Diana, and Mac Connor and his wife, Christiane; her six siblings; and her 23 grandchildren.

A viewing was scheduled for Oct. 16, 2016, at Melson Funeral Services, Ocean View, Del., with a Mass of Christian Burial on Oct. 17, 2016, at St. Ann’s Catholic Church, Bethany Beach, Del., Interment was to follow at Gate of Heaven Cemetery in Dagsboro, Del. Condolences may be sent online at www.melsonfuneralservices.com.

Michael Dennis “Mike” Colgrove, 71, of Dagsboro, Del., died on Tuesday, Oct. 11, 2016. He was born in Indianapolis, Ind., son of the late Riley Kenneth Colgrove and Lucille (Piers) Colgrove.

Colgrove proudly served in the U.S. Navy and worked at the National Security Agency for 35 years.

He is survived by his wife, Carol A. (Woods) Colgrove; two daughters, Sarah J. Kinderman and her husband, Eric Kinderman, and Clare C. Hobson and her husband, John Peyton Hobson; four grandchildren, Caroline G. Hobson, Olivia P. Hobson, Xavi O. Kinderman and Zoe M. Kinderman; two brothers, Kenneth Colgrove and Steven Colgrove; and two sisters, Karen Griffin and Susan Bradford.

A visitation and Mass of Christian Burial were scheduled for Oct. 18, 2016, at St. Ann Catholic Church in Bethany Beach, Del., with the Rev. Ralph Castelow officiating. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to The Society of St. Vincent de Paul of St. Ann Conference; 691 Garfield Pkwy.; Bethany Beach, DE 19930. Condolences may be sent online at www.bishophastingsfh.com.

Arlene M. Hoar, 72, of Georgetown, Del., passed away unexpectedly on Monday, Oct. 10, 2016, at her home, surrounded by her loving family. She was born in Philadelphia, Pa., on Aug. 27, 1944, daughter of Henry Wolfe and Jeanne (Wilheim) Wolfe.

Hoar worked a variety of jobs as she and her husband traveled the world during his deployment in the United States Air Force. She was a member of Zoar United Methodist Church in Millsboro, Del. She was also an avid reader and gardener who loved to travel. She also loved spending time with her children and grandchildren.

Hoar was preceded in death by her father, Henry Wolfe, and a sister, Alyce Butler. She is survived by her loving husband of 44 years, James W. Hoar; three daughters, Mary Koyanagi and her husband, Brian, of Lewes, Del., Susan Brennan and her husband, Owen Daniel, of Marinette, Wis., and Kimberly Weaver of Georgetown; her mother, Jeanne Wolfe of Ft. Pierce, Fla.; a sister, Anne Peirce, and her husband, Marshall, of Daleville, Pa.; and a brother, Henry Wolfe, and his wife, Lois, of Fort Pierce, Fla.; five grandchildren, Jonathan Morris, Lyndsey Koyanagi, Rachel Lavoie, Jason Brennan and Shawn Weaver; and five great-grandchildren.

A memorial service was scheduled for Oct. 15, 2016, at Zoar United Methodist Church, Millsboro, followed by a luncheon and celebration of life at the family home in Georgetown. In lieu of flowers, the family suggested memorial contributions to Wounded Warrior Project by visiting www.woundedwarriorproject.org. Condolences may be sent online at www.melsonfuneralservices.com.

Charles Edwin Kenney, 68, of Smyrna, Del., passed away at Bayhealth Kent General Hospital on Thursday, Oct. 6, 2016. He was born in Salisbury, Md., on Aug. 23 1948, to the late Charles Kenney and Edith Kenney.

Kenney was a very bright man. He graduated from Laurel High School in 1966 and earned his bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering from the University of Delaware. Kenney pursued a career in education, teaching electronics at Delaware Technical & Community Colleges before retiring from employment with the State of Delaware. He enjoyed reading, listening to rock-and-roll music, gardening and cooking.

He loved family gatherings and tried to help those in need whenever he could. However, what Kenney treasured most was being a good father. He adored his daughter and placed her needs before his own.

In addition to his parents, Kenney was preceded in death by a sister, Lillian Bailey. He is survived by his daughter, Jessica Spicer of Seaford, Del.; two sisters, Deborah Steele of Millsboro, Del., and Shirley Burtelle and her husband, James, of Laurel, Del.; and several nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephew, cousins and friends.

A memorial service was scheduled for Oct. 13, 2016, at Watson Funeral Home in Millsboro, Delaware. Interment was to be private. In lieu of flowers, the family suggested memorial donations to the Hospital for the Chronically Ill, Smyrna, Del. Condolences may be sent online at www.watsonfh.com.

Roland C. Maheux, 91, of South Bethany, Del., passed away on Thursday, Oct. 13, 2016. Shortly after his birth in 1924 in Pittsfield, Mass., he moved with his family to Lewiston, Maine.

As the goalie for his high school hockey team, Maheux was labeled “Kid Zero” and helped the team attain an undefeated season and the state championship. He was voted into the Lewiston/Auburn, Maine, Sports Hall of Fame.

During World War II, he attached to the Navy, starting in December of 1942, seeing service in both the Atlantic and Pacific theaters of war. While living in the Washington, D.C., area from 1948 to 1995, Maheux graduated from American University and was employed by the Library of Congress for 33 years, retiring in 1982.

His passions included drinking a daily martini, playing golf, reading, cheering for the Washington Nationals and Capitals and completing challenging black-belt Sudoku logic puzzles. Maheux will always be remembered for his extraordinary sense of humor and the many detailed stories he would tell.

Maheux was preceded in death by his wife of 53 years, Patricia Morris Maheux. He is survived by five children, with whom he shared a special bond, Gregory Maheux and his wife, Sylvia, Laura “Missie” Maheux West and her husband, Robert, Jeffrey Maheux, William Maheux, and Monique Wolf and her husband, Matthew; five grandchildren and a great-grandchild; his brother Roger; and many nieces and nephews.

A visitation will be held Friday, Oct. 28, 2016, from 5 to 7 p.m. at Melson Funeral Services, 38040 Muddy Neck Road, Ocean View, Del. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Oct. 29, 2016, at 11 a.m. at St. Ann’s Catholic Church, 691 Garfield Parkway, Bethany Beach, Del. Interment will be held at a later date, at the Delaware Veterans Memorial Cemetery, Millsboro, Del. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the American Lung Association. Condolences may be sent online at www.melsonfuneralservices.com.

Elwood F. Marvel, 99, of Ocean View, Del., passed away on Tuesday, Oct. 11, 2016. He was a farmer and retired school bus driver for the Indian River School District.

Marvel was preceded in death by his loving wife, Hilda Mae Marvel, in 2005 and a son, Stanley Marvel. He is survived by a son, Eddie, and his wife, Nancy; eight grandchildren, Glen Marvel and his wife, Duane, Vickie O’Hare and her husband, Tim, John Marvel and his wife, Robin, Scott West, Becky Littleton, Emily Hickman, Sherri Littleton and Billie Jo Littleton; 14 great-grandchildren, Brandon, Nicole, Colton and Jayce Marvel, Kristi West, Allison Browning, Makahla Shockley, Jacob and Zachary Hickman, Austin and Hannah Timmons, and Joseph, Mallory and Brice Wilkerson; and a daughter-in-law, Ruth Ann Marvel.

Funeral services were scheduled for Oct. 16, 2016, at Melson Funeral Services, Frankford, Del., Interment was to be at Dagsboro’s Redmen Memorial Cemetery. Condolences may be sent online at www.melsonfuneralservices.com.

Floyd Oscar Mitchell, 81, of Magnolia, Del., passed away on Oct. 11, 2016, at the Delaware Hospice Center in Milford, Del. He was born on July 10, 1935, in Millville, Del., to the late Augustus Mitchell and Anna Evans Mitchell.

Mitchell played baseball during his school years and was accomplished on the field. He served in the Delaware National Guard and was a retired installer for the Kent Sign Company, as well as having worked several other jobs over his lifetime. He loved hunting, fishing and collecting things. He also loved shooting and camping. He was affectionately mischievous and adventuresome.

Mitchell is survived by his two children, Douglas R. Mitchell and his wife, Dawn, of Felton, Del., and Jason Mitchell of Middletown, Del.; his “adopted” daughter, whom he raised as his own, Crystal Cole of Dover, Del.; three sisters, Helen Truitt and her husband, Arthur, of Millsboro, Del., Frances Fisher and her husband, John, of Dagsboro, Del., and Wilma Graham and her husband, Bruce, of Kenton, Del.; two sisters-in-law, Hazel Mitchell and Judy Mitchell; his brother, Howard Mitchell and his wife, Sara Lee, of Greenwood, Del.; his five grandchildren, Tylor, Devan, Ashley, Patricia and Eric; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and extended family members.

A funeral service was scheduled for Oct. 17, 2016, at the Watson Funeral Home in Millsboro, Del., officiated by the Rev. Paul Isaacs. Interment was to be at the Hollywood Cemetery, Harrington, Del., Flowers are welcomed, or memorial contributions may be sent to Delaware Hospice; 100 Patriots Way; Milford, DE 19963. Condolences may be sent online at www.watsonfh.com.

James M. “Jim” Russell, 78, of Millsboro, Del., formerly of Philadelphia, Pa., passed away on Thursday, Oct. 13, 2016, at Beebe Healthcare in Lewes, Del. He was born in Philadelphia on Jan. 7, 1938, son of the late Ivar J. and Annette Troendle Russell.

Russell was a graduate of the Jules E. Mastbaum High School in Philadelphia. He also proudly served his country in the United States Air Force after the Korean War. Russell retired in the early 1990s from Nabisco/Kraft Foods in Philadelphia before moving to Delaware in 1994 and becoming a member of the AMVETS Post 2 in Millsboro.

Russell is survived by his loving companion of 40 years, Ann M. Johnson; seven stepchildren, Nancy Petitt and her husband, Gary, of Townsend, Del., Millard Johnson, Linda Dando and Lloyd Johnson and his wife, Donna, all of Feasterville, Pa., Kathy Congdon and her spouse, Lee, of Jamison, Pa., John Johnson and his wife, Anne, of Columbus, Ohio, and Tim Johnson and his wife, Barbara, of Bensalem, Pa.; his sister, Shirley Carroll, and her husband, Robert, of Cedar Grove, N.C., and their daughter, Melissa McCollick of Hillsborough, N.C.; 17 grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren.

A funeral service was to be held at noon on Tuesday, Oct. 18, 2016, at Melson Funeral Services, 32013 Long Neck Road, Millsboro, Del. Interment was to follow at the Delaware Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Millsboro, Del.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggested memorial contributions to the National Kidney Foundation by visiting www.kidney.org. Condolences may be sent online at www.melsonfuneralservices.com.

Leslie Jane (Hugel) Wardell of Dagsboro, Del., passed away on Oct. 10, 2016.

As a single mother who raised two Eagle Scouts, she was proud of her sons and did everything in her power to furnish them with opportunities. Wardell indulged and embraced their interests, from the 1960s band the Grateful Dead (Zak) to the “Rocky Horror Picture Show” (Gabe).

Wardell had a joie de vivre that included a passion for food. She adored discovering new recipes and shopping for fresh and unique ingredients. She lived for the collective experience of preparing a feast for a gathering of family and friends. She loved to laugh and share good times with everyone around her.

Wardell is reunited with her beloved late husband, James Sanders. She was the devoted mother of Zak, husband of Tessa, and Gabe, husband of Trin; doting “mema” to her grandchildren, Gustav and Greta; dear sister to David and his wife, Susan; loving aunt to Margie, Jeffrey, Paul, Tommy, John and Robert; and caring owner to her three cats, Beau, Mouse and Lulu, who miss her dearly.

The family extended a special thanks to everyone who cared for her in her final days. In honor of the angels from Delaware Hospice, and in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Delaware Hospice at www.delawarehospice.org/donate-now.

A memorial service will be held in November in Baltimore, Md. Details will be announced on Facebook. Condolences may be sent online at watsonfh.com.

Vernon H Dibeler, 98, of Naples, Fla., passed away on Oct. 24, 2016. Born in Elizabeth, N.J., he received a bachelor’s and master’s degrees in chemistry from Duke University and doctorate in chemical physics from Columbia University.

As a chemical physicist, Dibeler retired in 1974 from work as a research scientist in the Chemistry Division of the (then) National Bureau of Standards (NBS) (now the National Institute of Standards & Technology [NIST]).

In 1942, he had joined the NBS, initially engaged in experimental isotope separation for the Manhattan Project. That was followed by mass spectrometric studies of isotope abundance ratios, analyses of organic materials and the determination of ionization energies of small molecules. The latter work was expanded to include high-resolution photo ionization studies of ground state and excited states of ions.

Dibeler was the author or co-author of more than 100 scientific publications. He was recipient of the Department of Commerce Silver Medal and Gold Medal awards for exceptional services. He was a retired Fellow of the American Physical Society; a retired member of the American Chemical Society; and former member of the American Association for the Advancement of Science.

After retiring, Dibeler moved to Bethany Beach, Del., where, from 1966 to 1982, he served as a member of the Town Board of Commissioners, serving at various times as Town secretary, treasurer, vice mayor and mayor. He also served on the Town Planning Commission. In 1975, he was elected to membership in Bethany Beach Volunteer Fire Company, Station 70. He served for 17 years as firefighter and assistant engineer. As a resident of Naples, Fla., Dibeler was a volunteer builder for Habitat for Humanity of Collier County.

Dibeler’s first wife, Anne Marie Viehmann, died in 1989, after 46 years of marriage. He is survived by a son, Vernon H. Dibeler II; two daughters, Dianne P. Higgins and Arlene Carr; three grandchildren, Colleen Anne Scout, Reed Allen Dibeler and Allison Lee-Carr Bender; and three great-grandchildren, Emmett Benjamin Scout, Amber Grace Scout and Raelynn Anne Bender.

A private memorial service and internment were planned. In lieu of flowers, the family suggested memorial contributions be sent to the Bethany Beach Volunteer Fire Co.; P.O. Box 950; Bethany Beach, DE 19930.

Charlotte Nash Etchison, 89, died peacefully, in her home, on Oct. 20, 2016. She was born to Norris Vernon Nash and Beulah Carr Nash on March 12, 1927, in Baltimore, Md.

Etchison graduated from the Church Home & Hospital, School of Nursing, in 1947 in Baltimore. She worked in many area hospitals and retired from the American Red Cross in 1986.

In addition to her parents, Etchison was preceded in death by her husband of 56 years, Carville Lee Etchison Sr.; a grandson, Matthew Etchison; and a sister, Ida Jean Johnson. Etchison leaves to cherish her memory a daughter, Diana McGrath and her husband, Timothy; a son, Carville Lee Etchison Jr. and his wife, Nancy; four grandchildren, Carla Bengtson, Caroline McGrath, Victoria Hawkins and Andrew Etchison; eight great-grandchildren who will dearly miss their “Grandmama”; and dear friends from Ocean View Presbyterian Church in Ocean View, Del., and Bethany Presbyterian Church in Zuni, Va., all of whom she dearly loved.

A celebration of Etchison’s life was scheduled for Oct. 26, 2016, at Graham Funeral Home & Cremation Services in Chesapeake, Va. She will be laid to rest privately at the Delaware Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Millsboro, Del. In lieu of flowers, the family requested memorial donations to the American Heart Association or American Cancer Society. Condolences may be sent online at www.grahamfuneralhome.com.

John Malcolm “Jack” Fraser, 88, of Ocean View, Del., formerly of Clinton, N.Y., passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loving family, on Wednesday, Oct. 19, 2016, at his home. He was known as a gracious and wonderful man, full of heart.

Fraser was born in Utica, N.Y., son of the late Robert Dobell and Gertrude Mae Fraser. His father was an alumnus of Hamilton College in Clinton and served on the college’s Board of Trustees. Throughout his esteemed career, he became the patriarch of the well-known Fraser’s Department Store in Utica.

Fraser was a graduate of New Hartford High School, Deerfield Academy, and graduated in 1951 from Williams College in Williamstown, Mass., where he also excelled on the varsity basketball team. As a devoted citizen of his community, he was instrumental in the lives of many, coaching Pop Warner football and Little League baseball. He also served as president of the Clinton Athletic Boosters Club.

Fraser was a self-employed businessman, operating multiple service stations on the New York State Thruway for 40 years. He continued his quest of community and youth by providing summer employment for countless young men and women. Fraser was a devoted Friend of Bill W. for more than 30 years, continuing his passion to help those in need.

In addition to his parents, Fraser was preceded in death by his loving wife of 36 years, Barbara Ann “Babs” (McCann) Fraser, in 1987; his son William John Fraser, in 2011; and his brothers, Robert Fraser and William Fraser. He is survived by his sister, Jean Fraser Leroy of Cortland, N.Y.; his loving wife and best friend in life of 28 years, Michael Ann (Kelly) Fraser; four children, John Edward Fraser and his loving companion, Georgia Ann Knapp, of Saginaw, Mich., James Jerome Fraser and his wife, Grace, of Lake Luzerne, N.Y., Jeffrey Paul Fraser of Broadalbin, N.Y., and Amy Jean Fraser of Whitesboro, N.Y.; three stepchildren, Diane Purcell and her husband, Thomas, of Dagsboro, Del., Anita C. Marini of Ocean View, Del., and David M. Marini of Dagsboro, Del.; 10 beautiful and amazing grandchildren; 10 precious great-grandchildren; and many in-laws, nieces and nephews.

A Mass of Christian Burial was scheduled for Tuesday Oct. 25, 2016, at St. Ann’s Catholic Church, Bethany Beach, Del. Another Mass will be held at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Clinton, N.Y., with burial in St. Mary’s Cemetery at a later date. Details will be forthcoming. In lieu of flowers, the family suggested memorial contributions to the American Heart Association, by visiting www.heart.org. Condolences may be sent online at www.melsonfuneralservices.com.

Max R. Fye, 92, of Selbyville, Del., and formerly of Mt. Airy, Md., and Rockville, Md., passed away peacefully on Wednesday, Oct. 19, 2016, at Harrison Senior Living of Georgetown, Del. He was born in Stump Creek, Pa., son of the late Meade L. Fye and Emma V. (Haag) Fye.

Fye graduated magna cum laude from Kent State University. He served in the U.S. Army Air Corps as an aviation cadet from 1943 to 1945 and the Reserves from 1945 to 1952. He was a life member of American Legion Post #191. He was employed by National Cash Register Company as an office manager.

In his free time, Fye enjoyed bowling, gardening, playing golf and spending time with his family. He and his wife, Wilma, celebrated their 67th wedding anniversary on Sept. 17, 2016.

Fye is survived by his wife, Wilma E. (Cavanaugh) Fye; two sons, Mark B. Fye and his wife, Alice, of Louisa, Va., and Gregg S. Fye and his wife, Helen, of Mt. Airy; a daughter, Karen F. Drescher and her husband, Steve, of Selbyville; a sister, Martha Jane Kopp of Rockville; a brother, Robert Fye of DuBois, Pa.; 16 grandchildren; and 29 great-grandchildren.

A celebration of life was to be held at a later date. In honor of the angels at VITAS Hospice, memorial contributions may be made to VITAS Hospice; 20773 Professional Park Blvd.; Georgetown, DE 19947. Condolences may be sent online at www.bishophastingsfh.com.

James Bruce Loomis Sr., 78, of Georgetown, Del., passed away in the care of the Delaware Hospice Center on Oct. 22, 2016. He was born July 14, 1938, in Mt. Pleasant, Mich., to the late William Everett Loomis and Florence Naomi Bowers Loomis.

Loomis worked for, and retired as an inspector for, the USDA. He was a committed Christian man who was an outgoing and very social person, who enjoyed talking to everyone. Loomis was devoted to his family and was especially fond of his grandchildren. He was a member of the Lions Club and the Woodworker’s Club, and an associate member of FOP Lodge 2.

He also loved antique cars and enjoyed driving the back roads and stopping out for lunch. He travelled and palled around with his best friend, Woody Honaker, a wonderful fellow Christian friend, who looked out for him.

In addition to his parents, Loomis was also preceded in death by his siblings, Roby, Gerald, Don, Bill, Margaret and Ruth Loomis. Loomis is survived by his four children, James B. Loomis Jr. of Selbyville, Del., Robert E. Loomis and his wife, Mary, of Churchville, Md., Dale E. Loomis of Jacksonville, Fla., and Leane L Miles of Pocomoke City, Md.; a sister, Barbara Riggle of Mt. Pleasant; nine grandchildren, J.B. Loomis III, Jordie Loomis, Diane Kurek and her husband, Nathan, Lily Loomis, Andrew Loomis, Dylan Loomis, Sarah Rupp, and Ashley and Ella Miles; five great-grandchildren, Jake and Levi Kurek, and Floyd, Ava and Esme Rupp.

A funeral service was scheduled for Oct. 24, 2016, at Watson Funeral Home, Millsboro, Del., officiated by the Rev. David Monroe. Interment was to be private, at the Harford Memorial Park in Bel Air, Md. In lieu of flowers, the family suggested memorial contributions to the Zoar United Methodist Church; 24463 Gravel Hill Rd.; Millsboro, DE 19966; or to Delaware Hospice; 100 Patriots Way; Milford, DE 19963. Condolences may be sent online at www.watsonfh.com.

Donald Penuel, 87, of Dagsboro, Del., passed away on Oct. 16, 2016, at the Cadia Rehabilitation Renaissance nursing center in Millsboro, Del. He was born Feb. 10, 1929, in Frankford, Del., to the late Coard and Ruth Hudson Penuel.

After high school, Penuel entered the U.S. Army and served with the 452nd Armored Field Artillery Battalion. He married his sweetheart, Genevieve, and together they raised three children. He retired from Showell Farms as an inspector.

Penuel loved word searches, taking drives and rabbit hunting. He enjoyed socializing and visiting friends and was devoted to his family. He was a private man and very polite. He also loved sweets. And he knew exactly when the fresh Tastykakes were delivered. He had to get there early to get the best stuff before it was picked over.

In addition to his parents, Penuel was preceded by his beloved wife, Genevieve, in 2013, and a son, Jack “Rick” Donaway, in 2010. He is survived by his daughters, Sherry Ann Hudson and her husband, Lin, of Dagsboro, and Dawn Truitt and her husband, Mike, of Selbyville, Del.; a sister, Ruth Ann Moore, and her companion, Jack; his beloved grandchildren, Brandon Donaway and his wife, Holly, Chad Hudson and his wife, Megan, Shane Truitt and his wife, Michelle, and Jennah Truitt; seven great-grandchildren, Collin, Rylee, Kyle, Logan, Makenzie, Jaxon and Lanie; and many extended family members and friends.

A chapel committal service was scheduled for Oct. 21, 2016, at Delaware Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Millsboro, Del., officiated by the Rev. Chuck Reynolds. In lieu of flowers, the family suggested memorial contributions to VITAS Hospice; 100 Commerce Dr. Ste. 302; Newark, DE 19713, or to Delaware Veterans Home; 100 Delaware Veterans Blvd.; Milford, DE 19963. Condolences may be sent online at www.watsonfh.com.

Emerson H. Pepper, 89, of Selbyville, Del., died Thursday, Oct. 20, 2016, at Bayhealth Medical Center/ Milford Memorial in Milford, Del. He was born in Selbyville, son of the late Homer Pepper and Emily Marie (Pusey) Pepper.

Pepper graduated from Greenbriar Military School in West Virginia. He had been a general manager at the former H&H Poultry in Selbyville. He later sold real estate and was a member of the Realtor association. He was a member of Salem United Methodist Church in Selbyville and a former member of the Rotary Club.

Pepper was preceded in death by his son, Emerson H. Pepper Jr.; his wife, Mary McCabe Pepper; in 2000; and a brother, Hance J. Pepper. He is survived by a daughter, Emily M. Morris and her husband, Steve, of Selbyville; three sisters, Elizabeth McCabe of Bishopville, Md., Mary Lou Johnson of Selbyville and Jeanne Moore of Newark, Del.; and two grandchildren, Matthew J. Thomas and Chloe M. Morris.

A graveside service will be held Saturday, Nov. 5, 2016, at 11 a.m. at Red Men’s Cemetery in Selbyville, Del. Afterward, friends are being invited to Roxana Fire Hall for a celebration of Pepper’s life. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Delaware Veterans Home; 100 Delaware Veterans Blvd.; Milford, DE 19963. Condolences may be sent online at www.bishophastingsfh.com.

Shirley A. (Banks) Spangler, 78, of Clarksville, Del., died Monday, Oct. 17, 2016, at home. She was born in Salisbury, Md., daughter of the late Charles F. Figgs and the late Ruth M. (Cary) Whaley.

Spangler worked for many years at Johnny’s & Sammy’s Restaurant in Salisbury, Hocker’s Grocery in Clarksville and The Parkway in Bethany Beach. She was the past president of the Elks Lodge #817 Ladies Auxiliary in Salisbury. She was a loving mother and devoted grandmother.

In addition to her parents, Spangler was preceded in death by two sisters and their husbands, Bobbie and Carl Waibel, and Jeanne and Everett Wilkins. She is survived by her five children, A.T. Scott and his wife, Donna, Cynthia West and her husband, Hayward, Dawn B. Jarmol and her husband, Robert, Philip H. Banks Jr. and his fiancée, Shirley Grace, and Dana A. Banks and her fiancé, Dick Heidenberger; 10 grandchildren; and 13 great-grandchildren.

The family thanked her nurses with Interim & Compassionate Care Hospice.

A memorial service will be held Monday, Nov. 7, 2016, at noon at Mariner’s Bethel United Methodist Church, Ocean View, Del. Friends may call an hour before the service. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in to Compassionate Care Hospice; 20165 Office Cir.; Georgetown, DE 19947, or to Interim Health Care; 100 S. Main St.; Smyrna, DE 19977. Condolences may be sent online at www.bishophastingsfh.com.

Shirley A. (Banks) Spangler, 78, of Clarksville, Del., died Monday, Oct. 17, 2016, at home. She was born in Salisbury, Md., daughter of the late Charles F. Figgs and the late Ruth M. (Cary) Whaley.

Spangler worked for many years at Johnny’s & Sammy’s Restaurant in Salisbury, Hocker’s Grocery in Clarksville and The Parkway in Bethany Beach. She was the past president of the Elks Lodge #817 Ladies Auxiliary in Salisbury. She was a loving mother and devoted grandmother.

In addition to her parents, Spangler was preceded in death by two sisters and their husbands, Bobbie and Carl Waibel, and Jeanne and Everett Wilkins. She is survived by her five children, A.T. Scott and his wife, Donna, Cynthia West and her husband, Hayward, Dawn B. Jarmol and her husband, Robert, Philip H. Banks Jr. and his fiancée, Shirley Grace, and Dana A. Banks and her fiancé, Dick Heidenberger; 10 grandchildren; and 13 great-grandchildren.

The family thanked her nurses with Interim & Compassionate Care Hospice.

A memorial service will be held Monday, Nov. 7, 2016, at noon at Mariner’s Bethel United Methodist Church, Ocean View, Del. Friends may call an hour before the service. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in to Compassionate Care Hospice; 20165 Office Cir.; Georgetown, DE 19947, or to Interim Health Care; 100 S. Main St.; Smyrna, DE 19977. Condolences may be sent online at www.bishophastingsfh.com.

Richard E. West, 69, a lifelong resident of Frankford, Del., passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loving family, on Friday, Oct. 21, 2016, at Peninsula Regional Medical Center in Salisbury, Md. He was known for his love of people, and his infectious smile and laugh.

West was born in Salisbury, Md., on Feb. 18, 1947, son of the late Edwin West and Margaret (Banks) West. He was a graduate of Lord Baltimore High School, Class of 1965, where he was a star basketball, football and baseball player. He also proudly served his country in the Delaware Army National Guard.

West married his high school sweetheart, Sonya Maziarz, at St. George’s United Methodist Church on July 17, 1964. He was a farmer on the family farm outside of Frankford and was also a pilot. He attended and was a lifelong member of St. George’s United Methodist Church in Clarksville, Del. He will be remembered as a godly man who was deeply devoted to his family.

In addition to his parents, West was preceded in death by his sister, Lorraine W. Steen, in 2008. He is survived by his loving wife of 52 years, Sonya (Maziarz) West; two daughters, Andrea L. West-McCabe and her husband, Kenneth D. McCabe, of Frankford, and Anita L. West-Werner and her husband, William M. Werner, of Bear, Del.; five grandchildren, Kaila D. McCabe, Kendall A. McCabe, Weston M. Werner, Analiese R. Werner and Kaitlyn King; and a sister-in-law, Phyllis Stevens of Frankford, Del.

A visitation and funeral services were scheduled for Oct. 27, 2016, at St. George’s United Methodist Church near Frankford, Del., with interment in the adjoining church cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family suggested memorial contributions to the Atlantic General Hospital Foundation; 9733 Healthway Dr.; Berlin, MD 21811. Condolences may be sent online at www.melsonfuneralservices.com.
Richard E. West, 69, a lifelong resident of Frankford, Del., passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loving family, on Friday, Oct. 21, 2016, at Peninsula Regional Medical Center in Salisbury, Md. He was known for his love of people, and his infectious smile and laugh.

West was born in Salisbury, Md., on Feb. 18, 1947, son of the late Edwin West and Margaret (Banks) West. He was a graduate of Lord Baltimore High School, Class of 1965, where he was a star basketball, football and baseball player. He also proudly served his country in the Delaware Army National Guard.

West married his high school sweetheart, Sonya Maziarz, at St. George’s United Methodist Church on July 17, 1964. He was a farmer on the family farm outside of Frankford and was also a pilot. He attended and was a lifelong member of St. George’s United Methodist Church in Clarksville, Del. He will be remembered as a godly man who was deeply devoted to his family.

In addition to his parents, West was preceded in death by his sister, Lorraine W. Steen, in 2008. He is survived by his loving wife of 52 years, Sonya (Maziarz) West; two daughters, Andrea L. West-McCabe and her husband, Kenneth D. McCabe, of Frankford, and Anita L. West-Werner and her husband, William M. Werner, of Bear, Del.; five grandchildren, Kaila D. McCabe, Kendall A. McCabe, Weston M. Werner, Analiese R. Werner and Kaitlyn King; and a sister-in-law, Phyllis Stevens of Frankford, Del.

A visitation and funeral services were scheduled for Oct. 27, 2016, at St. George’s United Methodist Church near Frankford, Del., with interment in the adjoining church cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family suggested memorial contributions to the Atlantic General Hospital Foundation; 9733 Healthway Dr.; Berlin, MD 21811. Condolences may be sent online at www.melsonfuneralservices.com.