Lorraine M. (Hoover) Knarr, 79, wife of William F. Knarr of 55 years, of Pottstown, passed away on Monday at Pottstown Memorial Medical Center.

Born in Pottstown, she was the daughter of the late Eugene M. and Katie L. (Moser) Hoover.

Surviving with her husband is their daughter Bonnie Wieand of Pottstown; grandchildren Stacey L. Lopez, wife of Carlos, of Pottstown and William C. Wieand Sr. of Stowe; and great grandchildren Courtney A. Kemp, wife of Garrett, Alivia R. Lopez, Devyn A. Lopez, William C. Wieand Jr., and Gianna M. Wieand. Along with her parents, she is predeceased by her brother Warren “Ben” Hoover, sister Jean “Sis” Baldwin, great grandson Adam C. Sabuacak, and niece Maryann Baer.

Lorraine was a 1948 graduate of Pottstown High School. She worked for 35 years in the personnel department as a clerk at Doehler Jarvis.

A funeral service will be held on Saturday, 11:00AM at Catagnus Funeral Home & Cremation Center, Inc., 711 N. Franklin Street, Pottstown with Pastor John Smolik officiating. Burial will follow in Highland Memorial Park. Family and friends may call on Saturday from 9:30AM to 10:45AM at the funeral home.

Anastasia M. (Grall) Faust, age 79, wife of Donald L. Faust Sr., of Popodickon Dr., Boyertown, passed away Monday at her home, surrounded by her family.

Born in Stony Point N.Y., she was the daughter of the late James and Edith (Coe) Grall.
She was Secretary/Treasurer of Bodon Industries/Universal Concrete, in Stowe for many years before retiring in 1996.

She was a member of St. Columbkill R.C. Church, Boyertown

Surviving with her husband of 55 years, are five daughters; Janice wife of Jay Bauer of Pottstown, Diane Faust wife of Dr. Barry Lembersky, of Pittsburgh, Eileen wife of Christopher Romich, of Collegeville, Joan wife of Jeffrey Sobel, of Wallingford, Pa., and Jeanette Nolan wife of Paul Orth, of Sarasota Fla., along with two sons; Donald L. Faust Jr., of Spring City, and Thomas M. Faust, of Boyertown. She is also survived by 16 grandchildren.

A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 10:30 AM, Thursday, St. Columbkill R.C. Church, 200 Indian Spring Rd., Boyertown, with the Rev. Martin F. Kern, officiating.  Burial will be Fairview Cemetery, Boyertown.

In lieu of flowers contributions may be made in her memory to: UPMC Cancer Center, UPMC Cancer Center Development Office, 5115 Centre Ave., Pittsburgh Pa.  15232.

Beatrice C. Lawhorne, age 78, widow of Biney R. Lawhorne Sr., of Stowe, died Thursday at PMMC.

Mrs. Lawhorne was born in Stowe, and was raised by her late grandparents; Lloyd and Gertrude Koch, Sr.

She was a member of the St. Gabriel’s Church Senior Group, and also the “60 Plus” club, at St. Paul’s Church in Stowe.

Surviving is a daughter; Barbara Jean Lawhorne, of Stowe, along with two sons; Bud R. Lawhorne, husband of Debi, of Boyertown, and Barry A. Lawhorne, husband of Brenda, of Pottstown.  She is also survived by five grandchildren; Sean Lawhorne, Matthew Lawhorne, Leigh Ann Lawhorne, Andrew Lawhorne, and Barry Lawhorne Jr., and 8 great grandchildren. She was pre-deceased by a son Brian A. Lawhorne.

Funeral services will be 10:30 AM Wednesday at Catagnus Funeral Home & Cremation Center, 711 N. Franklin St., Pottstown, with the Rev. Dr. Donald B. Eisenhauer, officiating. Burial will be in Highland Memorial Park, Pottstown.  Friends may call on Wednesday from 9 to 10:15 at the funeral home.

John J. McGreal, age 45, husband of Theresa A. (Paolone) McGreal, of Douglassville, passed away Friday in Pottstown Memorial Medical Center.

Born in Upper Darby Pa., he was the son of Mary (Walsh) McGreal, of Malvern Pa., and the late Thomas L. McGreal.

John was a member of Morningstar Fellowship, Bechtelsville, and was a car enthusiast, an avid golfer, and also enjoyed and was talented at woodworking. He also had a serious interest in the paranormal subject.

Surviving with his wife and mother are two daughters; Erin T. and Kelly D. McGreal, both of Douglassville. He is also survived by two brothers; Thomas K. McGreal of West Chester, and Patrick L. McGreal, of Downingtown, along with two sisters; Maureen Shiland of Saratoga Springs N.Y., and Deirdre Conwell, of Exton Pa. John is also survived by several nieces and nephews, and by his dog and buddy, Maddie.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday Jan. 2, 2010, at 11:30 AM, in Morningstar Fellowship, 100 Limekiln Rd., Bechtelsville. Pa. Friends may call on Saturday from 10 to 11:15 AM, at the church. Burial will be private.

In lieu of flowers contributions may be made in his memory to the:  McGreal Children Scholarship Fund, c/o Nat’l Penn Bank, Phila. & Reading Ave’s, Boyertown, Pa.  19512.

Daisy Hallman, “Carmella DelGrosso,” of E. Third St., Boyertown, wife of the late Robert P. Hallman of Boyertown, died Tuesday in Manatawny Manor Nursing Home, E.Coventry Twp.

Born in Hazelton Pa., she was the daughter of the late Frank and Anna (Sabatine) DelGrosso.

Surviving are three daughters; Christine wife of Cyril Troyan, of Boyertown, Roberta Maggio, of Houston Texas, Dr. Linda Hallman, wife of Michael Freeman, of Chevy Chase Md., and a son; Robert R. Hallman, of Reading.  She has 8 grandchildren and 1 great grandson.  She is the sister of Fausto DelGrosso, Gettysburg, PA, and the late Pasquale (Percy) DelGrosso.

Professionally, she spent her career as a floral designer at Ruth’s Flowers & Gifts in Boyertown, as well as Levengood’s Flowers, Gable Flowers, Colonial Gardens, and Pottstown Florists and was the former owner of the Cheese & Cloth Store in Boyertown. In addition, she served as a past President of the Junior Woman’s Club and was a member of the Exchange Club, both in Boyertown. 

She was a member of St. Columbkill R.C. Church, Boyertown. She was a loving mother, grandmother, and friend and will be missed by all who loved her. 

Friends may call on Monday from 9:30 to 10:30 AM, at St. Columbkill R.C. Church, 200 Indian Spring Rd., Boyertown. A Funeral Mass will then be celebrated at 10:30 AM at the church.  Burial will be in St. Aloysius New Cemetery, Lower Pottsgrove Twp.

Gladys H. Mumma, 91 years young, of Sanatoga, widow of Jay G. Mumma Jr. passed away peacefully on Tuesday morning 22 Dec. ’09 after a brief illness.  Born in Lemoyne, she was the daughter of the late John and Ines Mae Klepper May. 

She graduated from John Harris High School.  She lived many years in King of Prussia, retiring from an Executive position at Superior Tube Company, volunteering at the former Sacred Heart Church, Girl Scouts and many other organizations.  She was a very active member of the First Presbyterian Church of Port Kennedy where she served the deacons and the ladies aide.  She was also a past matron of the OES Valley Forge Chapter and continued with Eastern Star and Amaranth through October of this year.  Gladys was well known for her jams, breads, fruit cake, decorative shirts and jewelry and worked with a sewing group at SRC teaching and making lap robes for the hospital-bound.

She is survived by her children, Pamela Hardesty, wife of Jack of Kenilworth; Joseph Mumma, husband of Gail of Auburn, Wa; Richard, husband of Cynthia of E. Norriton; grandchildren, J. Shane Hardesty and wife Lori, children Alec, Kaitlyn and Dustin, of Ephrata; Patrick Hardesty of Wisconsin; Brian Hardesty of Kenilworth; Joe Mumma and wife Christina, children Elisabeth and Adam of Birdsboro; Richard Mumma and wife Liz of Jeffersonville; Kimberly Mumma of E. Norriton; Michael Mumma and wife Kim, children Samantha and Joshua of E. Greenville; Danielle Mumma of Vermont; Kristy Scholl and husband Brian, and three children, of Reading.  She is also survived by one brother, Earl May of Enhart.  She was predeceased by her son Jay G. Mumma III, a grandson Jay G. Mumma IV and a grandson Thomas Adam Mumma; also one sister Patricia Blasco, and four brothers, John, James, Kenneth and Gerald May.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend her Memorial with an Eastern Star service by Radiant Chapter #96 at the First Presbyterian Church of Port Kennedy, 1084 Old Valley Forge Road, King of Prussia, PA 19406 on Saturday, January 9 at 11 a.m.  Interment will be private at Valley Forge Memorial Gardens at the convenience of the family.

In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be made in her name to First Presbyterian Church at the above address.

Agnes A. (Neiffer) Sweeney, 87, widow of Edward J. Sweeney and Irvin L. Hamilton, passed away Tuesday, December 22, at Parkhouse Providence Pointe in Royersford.

Born in Limerick, Pa., she was the youngest daughter the late Augustus R. and Agnes H. (Weand) Neiffer.

Mrs. Sweeney was a 1941 graduate of Pottstown High School and 1944 graduate of Wilmington Hospital School of Nursing. She was employed by Pottstown Memorial Hospital and various private physicians including Dr. Richard Jones and Dr. Nicholas Chapis before moving to Lima, Ohio in 1971. She and her husband then moved to Hockessin, Del. in 1980. Agnes also lived many years in the Pottstown area. 

Mrs. Sweeney is survived by sons Stephen Hamilton, husband of Jane (Hart) Hamilton of Pottstown and Michael Hamilton, husband of Roxann (Thomas) Hamilton of Naples, Fla. Also, Grandson Christopher Hamilton and Granddaughters Rebecca Duble, Briana Foerman, Shelley Castrinoes, and Sherri Hamilton, and five great-grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews. She was pre-deceased by brothers Henry, Ralph, Perry Reed, and Elmer Neiffer, and sisters Viola Swinehart and Mildred Blackwell.

A funeral service will be 11 AM Tuesday at Catagnus Funeral Home & Cremation Center, 711 N. Franklin St. Pottstown, with the Rev. Lisa Weida, officiating. Friends may call on Tuesday from 10 to 11 AM, at the funeral home. Burial will be private in Highland Memorial Park, Pottstown.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in her memory to: Parkhouse Providence Pointe, 1600 Black Rock Rd., Royersford, Pa.  19468, Attn: Ladies Auxillary

Claudette (Jacobs) Derk, age 70, of the Golden Living Center, Exeter Twp. and formerly of Pottstown, died Sunday at the Center.

Born in Pottstown she was the daughter of the late George and Anne (Prekup) Jacobs.

Claudette was a 1957 graduate of Pottstown High School.  In 1960 she was Miss Congeniality of the Miss Montgomery Pageant and was a tap dancer with Price’s Studio.  She was also very active at the Golden Living Center acting as a volunteer ambassador on the Resident Council there.

Surviving is a daughter; Donna A. (Remington), wife of Alan D’Luzen, of West Reading, and two sisters; Betty Jo wife of Richard Geyer, of Pottstown, and Georgeanne Miller of Allentown.  She is predeceased by a sister, Bonnie Jacobs and a brother George Jacobs.

A Memorial service will be held on Saturday January 9, 2010, at 2 p.m, at the Golden Living Center, 21 Fairlane Rd., Exeter Twp. Burial will be private.

Catagnus Funeral Home & Cremation Center, 711 N. Franklin St. Pottstown, is in charge of arrangements.

In lieu of flowers contributions may be made in her memory to the: Salvation Army, 137 King St., Pottstown, Pa., 19464.

Gary R. Dunn, 54, husband of Barbara C. (Berry) Dunn, of Gilbertsville, passed away on Saturday from cancer at his home.

Born in Pasadena, TX, he was the son of the late Roy Clinton “RC” Dunn Jr. and Ethel (Wuensche) Dunn.

Surviving with his wife are step-daughters Brandy Courtney of Pottstown and Jennica Courtney of Gilbertsville; sister Brenda D. Webster of Houston, TX; 1 niece and 2 nephews.

Gary was a member of New Hanover Lutheran Church in Gilbertsville. He was the Chapter Director of the Goldwing Road Riders Assoc, Chapter PA-A.  His hobby and side business was G&B Cycle Goodies, a company that installed decorative lighting on motorcycles. He was the Premier Honda Goldwing dealer and installer for Boogey Inc. based out of Tennessee.

A memorial service will be held on Wednesday, 2:00PM at New Hanover Lutheran Church, 2941 Lutheran Road, Gilbertsville. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. Family and friends may call on Wednesday from 12:00Noon to 2:00PM at the church.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Gary’s name to the American Cancer Society, c/o National Penn Bank, 1830 E. High Street, Pottstown, PA 19464: Attn Joan Gehris.

Glenn O. Nelson, 76, husband of Claire E. Samuelson of 51 years, of Royersford, passed away on Friday at Manatawny Manor Nursing Home.

Born in Northwood, Iowa, and formerly a resident of California, he was the son of the late Otis P. and Geneva E. (Knutson) Nelson.

Along with his wife, he is survived by son Alan B. Nelson of Chatsworth, CA; daughter Susan Simmons, wife of Steve, of Royersford; grandchildren Connor, Cameron and Chase Simmons; niece Nancy Hengesteg of Northwood Iowa; and nephews Ron and Dan Martin both of Fort Collins, CO.

Glenn was a member of Grace Lutheran Church in Royersford and was a US Navy Korean War Veteran.

A celebration of life will be held on Tuesday, December 29th, 11:00AM at Grace Lutheran Church, 594 Church Street, Royersford with Reverend Paul H. Neff officiating.
A private burial will be in Indiantown Gap National Cemetery, Annville.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Glenn’s name to Manatawny Manor, PO Box 799, Pottstown PA 19464 or Grace Evangelical Lutheran Church Music Fund, 594 Church Street, First Floor, Royersford, PA  19468.

Madeline McQuillan, 94, wife of the late Nicholas DiNapoli and William McQuillan, of Gilbertsville, passed away on Thursday at Manor Care in Pottstown.

Born in Brooklyn, NY, she was the daughter of the late Pasquale and Mary (Sbarbari) Barone.

She is survived by her daughter Marene Doz of Gilbertsville; step daughters Patricia Conway of Occoquan, Virginia and Ann Spence of West Islip, NY; step sons Robert McQuillan of Northport, NY and Timothy McQuillan of Hanover, NH; 3 grandchildren; 17 step grandchildren; 1 great grandchild and  23step-great grandchildren. Along with her husbands and parents, she is predeceased by her sister Eleanor Garatti and step son William McQuillan.

Madeline was a member of Blessed Teresa of Calcutta Roman Catholic Church in Linfield. She loved to travel, visiting the entire USA and 109 different countries. She loved to read and do crossword puzzles but most importantly she cherished the time with her family.

A Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Wednesday, 10:00AM at Blessed Teresa of Calcutta, Linfield campus, 1228 Main Street, Linfield with Fr. Paul Brandt officiating. Burial will follow in St. Aloysius New Cemetery, Pottstown. Family and friends may call on Tuesday from 7:00PM to 8:30PM and on Wednesday from 8:30AM to 9:15AM at Catagnus Funeral Home & Cremation Center, Inc., 711 N. Franklin Street, Pottstown.

Breanne M. Brothers, 15, of Pottstown, passed away on Sunday, December 13 after a tragic automobile accident.

Born in Sellersville on July 24, 1994, she was the beloved daughter of David B. and Doreen M. (Sammons) Brothers.

Surviving with her parents are her sisters Jennifer L. Latshaw, wife of Stephen J. Latshaw, and Melissa A. Fulmer; brother David B. Brothers II; and her paternal grandparents Charles A. and Elizabeth A. Brothers. Also surviving are aunts, uncles, cousins and many friends. She is predeceased by her maternal grandparents William E. and Ethel M. Sammons.

Breanne was a student at Pottstown High School. She loved doing hair and make-up and wanted to become a professional hair dresser. She enjoyed music; her favorite bands are “Blood On The Dance Floor” and “Brokencyde”.  Dahvie Vanity was her idol. She could be found at the mall every Friday. She was loved by her family and friends and will be sadly missed by everyone.

Family and Friends may call on Monday, December 21 from 6:00PM to 8:00PM at Catagnus Funeral Home & Cremation Center, Inc., 711 N. Franklin Street, Pottstown. Funeral services and burial are private and at the convenience of the family.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Breanne's name to the Memorial Fund for Breanne M. Brothers, c/o Harleysville National Bank, 1500 E. High Street, Pottstown, PA, 19464.

Robert R. Friz Jr., 55, husband of Wanda (Weller) Friz of Boyertown, passed away on Friday at Lehigh Valley Hospital after a long illness.

Born in Pottstown, he was the son of Delilah A. (Hetrick) Friz and the late Robert R. Friz Sr.

In addition to his wife of 34 years, Bob is survived by, a son Jason R. Friz, husband of Jennifer L., of Gilbertsville; daughters Angela K. Friz of Boyertown and Kelly J. Black, wife of Cory A., of Barto; sister Norma Jean (Friz) Bogulski, wife of Peter, of Derby, NY and grandchildren Alina R. and Camryn G. Friz.

Bob was a 1972 graduate of Boyertown High School and a long time employee of East Penn Manufacturing in Lyons, PA. An avid musician, Bob played the drums with numerous bands over the years. 

A member of Shepherd of the Hills UCC Church in Bechtelsville for 32 years, Bob he was involved in the Music Ministry, Praise Group, Alpha Ministry, and Youth Ministry. He was a member of the NRA, Earl Twp. Fire Company and Gabelsville Athletic Association.  Bob was a former deputy game warden, as well as a volunteer fire fighter and fire police.

A funeral service will be held on Thursday, 11:00AM at Shepherd of the Hills UCC Church, 527 Hoffmansville Road, Bechtelsville with Pastor John Brown officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. Family and friends may call on Wednesday from 6:30PM to 8:00PM at Catagnus Funeral Home & Cremation Center, Inc., 1020 E. Phila. Ave., Gilbertsville and on Thursday from 10:00AM to 10:45AM at the church.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Bob’s name to Shepherd of the Hills UCC Church, 527 Hoffmansville Road, Bechtelsville, PA 19505.

Bertha (Bert) Rickert Fritz, formerly of Pottstown, Pennsylvania, passed away on Thursday, December 10, at her home in Frederick, Maryland.   She was 81-years-old.  Bert fought a courageous 14-month battle with an aggressive form of melanoma.
Until the end, she never allowed this horrible disease to dampen her spirit for life, and the love she had for her family and many dear friends.

Bert was born on September 30, 1928, in Spring City, PA, by a mid-wife in her family home to her mother, Lavina Nonemaker Porter and father, Wilmer Hipple Porter.   She and her family subsequently moved to Pottstown where she later said that “she felt like she was in heaven,” because her new home had indoor plumbing. 

As a child, Bert and her late sister, Betty, used to enjoy winter nights in front of the radio listening to their favorite shows, “Jack Armstrong, the All-American Boy,” and “The Green Hornet.”  They had no television or telephone.  When the weather turned nice, Bert and her girlfriends played traditional games such as “jacks,” hop scotch, red light, and hide and seek.  The boys, she observed, preferred marbles.

Bert was a member of the Pottstown High School class of 1946.  She was 18-years-old when she married the late Harold (“Smokey”) Rickert at the Old Church in Valley Forge Park.  The newlyweds resided with her in-laws at the Rickert Homestead in Stowe, PA.  Bert and Smokey had three children, Thomas Rickert, age 60, Donna Rickert Hillman, age 59, and Jack Rickert, age 46.   The family enjoyed annual vacations to the Jersey Shore in Wildwood, NJ, with friends Lorraine and Roy Dentler and their children.

Bert was widowed young when Smokey Rickert tragically died of a heart attack in 1970 at age 45, while he was in Detroit performing Union business.   Despite the loss of her husband and bread-winner, Bert was able to make ends meet sufficiently so that her children were never left wanting for anything.

Bert worked for 20 years at Pottstown’s Sunnybrook Ballroom and Restaurant, which was then famous for hosting acts from the “Big Band” era.  Her pleasant demeanor and outrageous sense of humor made her a Sunnybrook favorite among her customers and co-workers. 

It was at Sunnybrook that she met her second husband, the late Larry Lee Fritz.  They were married in May 1996 and honeymooned at the Grand Old Opry in Nashville.  Sadly, Larry Lee Fritz died only three years later, thus making Bert a widow for the second time.

In a few years, Bert moved in with her youngest son’s family in Frederick, Maryland.  It was tough on her living away from the Pottstown area for the first time in 75 years, but she still managed to drive to Pottstown once a month to visit her old friends. 

As the cancer progressed, Bert’s many dear friends visited her on a daily basis.  She was energized by this fine company of friends. 

Bert Rickert Fritz is survived by her children, Thomas Rickert, Donna Rickert Hillman, and Jack Rickert; grandchildren, Craig Rhoads,  Lindsay Stufflet Daugherty, Rachel Rickert, David Rickert, and John Rickert; in-laws Marie Barna Rickert, Harold Hillman, and Jill Rickert.

The family will receive friends at their Frederick home from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Sunday, December 13th at 6474 Saddlebrook Lane, Frederick, MD. 

Funeral services will be held at the Cavalry Baptist Church in Pottstown, PA, on Wednesday December 16, 2009, 10:00AM with Pastor Jim Spears officiating. Family and friends may call on Wednesday from 9:30AM to 10:00AM at the church.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Hospice of Frederick County, 516 Trail Avenue, PO Box 1799, Frederick, MD 21702.

Regina E. (Klenk) Mauger, 78, wife of the late Russell B. Mauger, of Pottstown, passed away on Friday at Pottstown Memorial Medical Center.

Born in Phoenixville, she was the daughter of the late Joseph Sr. and Pansy (Yocum) Klenk.

Surviving are her daughters Judy Mauger of Pottstown and Linda Carroll, wife of William, of Pottstown; sister Diane Zampella; granddaughter April Carroll and great grandson Kaleb Carroll. Along with her parents and husband, she is predeceased by her sisters Gladys and Barbara, her brother Joe and grandson Anthony.

Regina was a former member of Grace Lutheran Church in Pottstown. She loved spending time with her grandchildren and enjoyed watching westerns.

A funeral service will be held on Tuesday, 11AM at Catagnus Funeral Home & Cremation Center, Inc., 711 N. Franklin Street, Pottstown. Burial will follow in Highland Memorial Park. Family and friends may call on Tuesday from 10:00AM to 11:00AM at the funeral home.

Gerald Brodi, age 62, husband of Elaine T. (Brutto) Brodi, of North Coventry Twp., died Saturday in Paoli Hospital.

Born in Quakertown Pa., he was the son of the late Paul and Anna (Reifsnyder) Lick.
He worked at the former Blue Chip Transportation Co. in Spring City, and prior to that at the former Morris Berman Trucking Co, in Stowe.

Gerald was a Marine Veteran of the Vietnam War.

He was a member of St. Aloysius R.C. Church, Pottstown, and also of the American Dream Corvette Club, and the Skyline Dr., Corvette Club.  He was a classic car enthusiast.  He was also a member of the Tall hemlocks Rod & Gun Club.

Surviving with his wife of 42 years, is a son; Russell J. husband of Connie Brodi, of N. Coventry Twp., and a daughter; Angela M. wife of Thomas M. Gauby Jr., of Douglassville. Also surviving is a brother; Paul Lick, of Sanatoga, and three sisters; Ruth Lawless, of Norristown, Pauline Hahn, of Gilbertsville, and Loretta Krastel, of Perkasie, along with three grandchildren; Scott, Nicole, and Timothy Brodi.

A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 10 AM on Thursday in St. Aloysius R.C. Church, Hanover & Beech Sts., Pottstown, with the Rev. Walter Benn, officiating.  Burial will be in St. Aloysius New Cemetery, Lower Pottsgrove Twp.  Friends may call on Thursday from 8 to 9:15 AM, at Catagnus Funeral Home & Cremation Center, 711 N. Franklin St. Pottstown.

Contributions may be made in his memory to:  Vietnam Veterans of America, Chapter #565, P.O. Box 472, Pottstown, Pa.  19464.

Richard J. Albright Sr., 85, husband of the late Mary Alice (Sojourner) Albright, of Pottstown, passed away on Saturday at Pottstown Memorial Medical Center.

Born in Pottstown, he was the son of the late William and Irene (Credon) Albright.

Surviving is son Richard J. Albright Jr., husband of Bonnie, of Allentown; daughter Cheryl Albright of Pottstown; sister Gladys “Peg” Sloan of Pottstown; grandchildren Jennifer Knight, Matthew Hipple, Michael Albright and Benjamin Albright; and 2 great grandchildren Daviel and Jack Hipple. Along with his wife and parents, he is predeceased by a brother, William H. Albright, Jr. and a sister, Leatrice Matyasovsky.

Richard was a graduate of Pottstown High School in 1941 and a graduate of the Radio Electronics Institute in Philadelphia. He was a WWII Army veteran who served in the 310th Signal Operation Battalion 9th US Army. He saw action in France, Belgium and Holland. He worked at J. Fegely & Son CO. for 10 years. He later opened Albright & Schwoyer with his partner Grier Schwoyer where they repaired TV, Small appliances, radios and HiFI’s. He retired there in 1986. After retirement, he and his wife moved to Palm Bay, Florida, living there from1986 until 2001 when he returned to Pottstown. He was a member of the Pottstown Elks Lodge #814, Pottstown AMBUCS, George Amole Post #47 American Legion and Pottstown B.I.E. Richard was an avid golfer and loved to garden.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, 11:00AM at Catagnus Funeral Home & Cremation Center, Inc., 711 N. Franklin Street. Burial will follow in Highland Memorial Park. Family and friends may call on Saturday from 10:00AM to 10:45AM at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Richard’s name to The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society Donor Services, P.O. Box 4072, Pittsfield, MA 01202.

Leon J. Schwartz, 81, husband of Irene E. (Beckmann) Schwartz of 59 years, of Sanatoga, passed away on Sunday at Phoenixville Hospital.

Born in West Conshohocken, PA, he was the son of the late Leon J. Sr. and Lillian V. (O’Connor) Schwartz.

Surviving is their son Karl L. Schwartz, husband of Andrea L., of Limerick; sisters Marie H. Neville of Macungie and Nancy Stitler of Conshohocken; and 3 grandchildren Erich, Karin and Marissa Schwartz. He is predeceased by his brothers James L., Paul B., and Eugene G. Schwartz and sister Veronica V. O’Donnell.

Leon was the co-owner of Bamford-Schwartz Real Estate Co. in King of Prussia for 30 years and the owner of Leon’s Market in Spring City for 18 years. Leon was a WWII Navy Veteran. He was a member of the Spring City Lions Club, the Spring City American Legion and the Spring City Historical Society.

Arrangements are private and at the convenience of the family.

Donations may be made in Leon’s name to the Phoenixville Cancer Center Patient Assistance Fund, 824 Main Street, Suite 101 Phoenixville, PA 19460.

Joan N. Law, 74, wife of Thomas C. Law of 53 years, of Pottstown, Warwick, Twp., passed away on Tuesday at Phoenixville Hospital.

Born in Altoona, PA, she was the daughter of the late Harold and Virginia (Wallace) Norris.
Surviving with her husband is their son Michael F. Law of Pottstown, her twin sister Jean Andrews, wife of Robert, of Claymont, DE., grandchildren Alison Law, Kelly Miller and Jackie Dielman; and 2 great grandchildren.

Joan was a member of Coventryville Methodist Church, a graduate of Chester High School in 1963 and a graduate of Wilmington Hospital as a Registered Nurse. She enjoyed sewing and knitting and all types of arts and crafts.

Services and interment are private and at the convenience of the family.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Joan’s name to the American Cancer Society, P.O. Box 22718, Oklahoma City, OK 73123-1718.

Clarence Rahn, 97, of Topton, husband of the late Evelyn T. (Tyson) Rahn, passed away on Wednesday, November 18th at the Topton Lutheran Home, where he resided the last 8 years.

Born in Perkiomenville, he was the son of the late James S. Rahn,Jr and Katie (Yerger) Rahn.

He is survived by his niece Barbara Rahn Stoudt of Boyertown, Linda Egolf of Oley, sister-in-law Eleanor Rahn of Pottstown, Esther Witner of Bethlehem, as well as several great nieces and nephews.  Mr. Rahn is predeceased by his siblings Howard Rahn, Claude Rahn, Helen Swoyer and Russel Rahn.

Clarence was a retired die caster from Doehler Jarvis in Pottstown.   Clarence was a life member of American Forestry Association.  He and his wife were long-time owners and operators of Rahn’s Nursery in Douglassville.  He was a member of the Valley Forge Chapter of the American Rhododendron Society where he served on counsel and judged flower shows, including the Philadelphia Flower Show. Clarence also served in the National Guard.  He was a member of St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Douglassville and Grace Congregation of the Lutheran Home in Topton. 

A memorial service will be held on Friday, December 11th, 11AM at Catagnus Funeral Home & Cremation Center, Inc., 711 N. Franklin Street, Pottstown.  Family and friends will be welcome on Friday from 10AM to 11AM at the funeral home.  Burial will follow in Highland Memorial Park.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Clarence’s name to the Valley Forge Chapter of the Rhododendron Society, P.O. Box 715, Southeastern, PA 19399-0715

Phyllis June (Whittaker) Cavallo, 73, of Pottstown, passed away on Saturday at Phoenixville Hospital.

Born in Springfield, PA, she was the daughter of the late Edward and Barbara (Wall) Whittaker.

Surviving are her children Michael Cavallo, husband of Linda, of Jacksonville, FL, Vicki Buhl, wife of William, of Pottstown, Steve Cavallo, companion of Barbie Brandel, of Boyertown and Gregory Cavallo, husband of Robin, of Gilbertsville; brother Arthur Whittaker, husband of Betty Lou, of Glen Mills; 11 grandchildren; 2 great grandchildren and her beloved cat Abby.

June, as everyone knew her by, worked at the information desk at the King of Prussia Mall for 25 years. She was an avid shopper, enjoyed watching all the Philadelphia sports teams, and was a Healthy Woman Member at Pottstown Memorial Medical Center. She was a courageous 30+ year breast cancer survivor.  More than anything, she loved spending time with her family.  Her family and friends were so blessed by her witty sense of humor.

A funeral service will be held on Saturday, 10:00AM at Catagnus Funeral Home & Cremation Center, Inc., 711 N. Franklin Street, Pottstown with Pastor Blaine Wenger officiating.  Burial will follow at the Coventryville United Methodist Cemetery in Pottstown. Friends may call on Friday from 6:00PM to 7:30PM and on Saturday from 9:30AM to 10:00AM at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made in Phyllis’s name to the American Heart Association, 625 W. Ridge Pike, Building A, Suite 100, Conshohocken, PA 19428 or the Susan G. Komen for the Cure, Attn: Donor Services, PO Box 650309, Dallas, TX 75265-0309.

Betty M. Smith, 85, of North Coventry Township, PA went home to be with her Heavenly Father on Friday December 4, 2009 at Chestnut Knoll in Boyertown.

Born in New Haven, CT, Betty was the daughter of the late Charles and Mary (McFadden) Neiman.

Betty is survived by her husband of 64 years Richard (Dick) L. Smith; her brother Douglas Neiman, her sister Annabelle Emes, many nieces and nephews.

Betty was a member of the Wesleyan Christian Church in Pottstown and was a friend at the Pleasantville EC Church in Oley Twp, where she served on the Official Board as a steward of the church, a decorator and social activity chairperson. She worked at the former Doehler’s as a final inspector for 5 years and at the former Wolf’s China & Glass Shop in Pottstown in sales for 15 years. Betty enjoyed gardening, loved dogs and all animals and was especially proud of her home. She was the best aunt on earth.

Betty will be remembered as a devoted wife and a generous, gentle and loving person.  She will be missed by everyone who knew her. 

A funeral service will be held at 11:00 AM on Monday December 7, 2009 at Wesleyan Christian Church, 1301 Hilltop Road, Pottstown, PA 19464 with Pastor Dan Gerber officiating.  Visitation will be from 9:30 AM to 11:00 AM at the church. Burial will follow at Temple Methodist Church Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made in Betty’s name to Wesleyan Christian Church Memorial Fund, PO Box 139, Pottstown, Pennsylvania 19464 or Caring Hospice, 400 Commerce Drive Suite C, Fort Washington, PA 19034.

George E. Boyer, age 90, husband of the late Blanche E. (Dengler) Boyer, of Frederick Mennonite Community, and formerly of Grace St. in Pottstown, died Thursday at Frederick.

Born in Pottstown, he was the son of the late Heber and Alice (Martin) Boyer.

He was a 1936 graduate of Pottstown High School, and completed courses in Milk Marketing and Ice Cream Manufacturing at Penn State University. George worked for the former Clover Leaf Dairy in Pottstown, and as a Supervisor in the Maintenance Dept. of Pottstown Plant of Firestone Tire and Rubber Co. He was also the Firestone plant coordinator for the United Way Fund drive in 1971 and 1972. George was also a very important part of the Catagnus Funeral Home & Cremation Center, staff, from 1985 until 2006.

He was a member of St. Paul’s U.C.C. Church, Pottstown, and past member of St. John’s U.C.C. Church in Pottstown, for many years, where he was a Deacon, Elder and financial secretary. He was a member of the Boy Scouts of America Neighborhood Chairman, sustaining membership and enrollment drive of Daniel Boone Council in 1970 and 1971, and Specials Captain, sustaining membership enrollment drive of Hawk Mountain Council in 1972.

George was a member of Stichter Lodge #254 F.A.M., initiated April 25, 1945, crafted June 13, 1945, raised to Master Mason September 19, 1945, and served as Worshipful Master in 1962 at the Lodge.  He was a member of Royal Arch Chapter #271, May 23, 1946; Naval Commandary #71, October 19, 1950; Palestine Council #3 A&SMM, February 9, 1949; Ancient Accepted Scottish Rite Valley of Reading, November 19, 1947; Thrice Potent Master of Reading Lodge of Perfection, 1968-1969; Coroneted Honorary Member Supreme Council 33 degrees, September, 1974; Rajah Temple A.A.O.N.M.S., Reading, PA, May 26, 1948; Tall Cedars of Lebanon Spring Forest #34, 1949.  He was past President and Director of Good Fellowship Club of Reading Consistory and was appointed Chairman Grand Lodge Committee Masonic Culture by Grand Masters Robert E. Deyoe, John R. Young, Hiriam P. Ball, Orville Kimmel and Rochester B. Woodale, 1965- 1975.  He was appointed District Deputy Grand Master 1976-1977 by Right Worshipful Grand Master John McCain, 978-1979 by Right Worshipful Grand Master Walter Wells, 1980-1981 by Right Worshipful Grand Master Joseph E. Trate, 1982-1983 by Right Worshipful Grand Master Samuel Williamson and 1984-1985 by Right Worshipful Grand Master William A. Carpenter.  He was appointed to Grand Lodge Guest Committee, 1985 to 2006 and appointed as Admissions Counselor to Mason Homes in Elizabethtown, PA, 1985 to 2006.  George was also a member of Constantine Conclave Knights of the Red Cross of Constantine and Appendant Orders Puissant Sovereign, 1986, a member of Excelsior Mark Lodge of Philadelphia, Worshipful Master 1994.  He was awarded a certificate for 60 years of membership in the Stichter Lodge #254, Pottstown, PA by Right Worshipful Grand Master William Slater, April 1, 2005.  And he was a member of the Golden Eagles.

Surviving is a son; James L. Boyer, husband of Jean ( Rhoads)  Boyer, of Gilbertsville, along with four grandsons; Michael husband of Carolyn Boyer, Steven husband Maria Boyer, Phillip husband of Jennifer Boyer, and James K. husband of Lisa Boyer. He is also survived by ten great grandchildren, Brandon, Bryan, Bradley, Jacob, Amanda, Tyler, Laura, Allyson, Cara, and Brett, along with his sister; Florence, wife of Dominick Cuono, of Burrells Inlet, SC. He is pre-deceased by two brothers; Stanley and Harry Boyer. 

Funeral services will be 11 AM Tuesday at Catagnus Funeral Home & Cremation Center, 711 N. Franklin St. Pottstown. Burial will be in Pottstown Cemetery, West. Friends may call on Tuesday from 9 to 10:45 AM, at the funeral home. Masonic services will be held at 10:45 AM.

Contributions may be made in his memory to: 32nd degree Masonic Learning Center for Children, Inc., P.O. Box 6013, Reading Pa.  19610.

Palmer H. Williamson, 79, husband of the late Juanita (Stine) Williamson, passed away on Sunday at Pottstown Memorial Medical Center.

Born in Shippensburg, he was the son of the late Hugh H. and Viola E. (Mixell) Williamson.

He was the loving father of Stuart Williamson, husband of Sandy, and Nina Walters, wife of Clyde, cherished grandfather of Heather Wiglusz, wife of Jared, and loving brother of Helen Yurtseven, wife of Nick, and Mary Wingert. Also surviving is one step grandson, 3 step granddaughters and 6 step great grandchildren and his beloved dogs, Rawly and Tigger. He is predeceased by brothers Ronald, Foster, and Myron Williamson, Harold Mixell and sister Winifred Hershey.

Palmer was a teacher at Spring Ford High School for 36 years, retiring in 1993. He graduated with a Masters in Business Education from Shippensburg University. Palmer was a US Army veteran serving in the 101st Airborne as an Army med tech from 1951-1953. He taught Sunday School at Zion Lutheran Church in Spring City. Palmer was a member of both the Cumberland Valley Lodge #315 F&AM and the Consistory in the Valley of Reading Ancient Accepted Scottish Rite. Most of all, Palmer was a loving father and grandfather and friend to many and will be sadly missed.

A funeral service will be held on Friday, 10:30AM at Catagnus Funeral Home & Cremation Center, Ltd., 329 N. Lewis Road, Royersford. Burial will follow in Spring Hill Cemetery, Shippensburg. Family and friends may call on Friday from 9:00AM to 10:20AM at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Palmer’s name to the American Lung Association, 1301 Pennsylvania Ave., NW, Suite 800. Washington, DC 20004.

Mary Jane (MJ) Christie, 53 of Oaks, Pa, passed away peacefully on November 26, 2009 after a courageous 13 month battle with glioblastoma.

MJ is survived by her cherished daughter, Jessica Christie Rafalko, beloved companion Louis Bedell, parents Alexander and Jane Christie of Wayne, brother Rick Christie and his wife Wendy of Collegeville, nieces Quinn and Melissa Christie and nephew Tyler Christie.

MJ graduated from Upper Merion High School and attended Catholic University and Gettysburg College.  She was active in college and community theater productions, particularly musical theater, and sang the lead role in My Fair Lady, Sound of Music, Cabaret, Godspell and The Boy Friend.  She performed with the King Prussia Players, Forge Theater, Pasadena Theatre Company, Colonial Players of Annapolis and Annapolis Summer Garden Theatre.

MJ’s infectious laughter, sense of humor, and keen mind will be missed by family, friends and Iron Mountain co-workers. 

A Memorial Service to celebrate MJ’s life will take place on Thursday, December 3 at 5:30 pm at Catagnus Funeral Home, 329 N. Lewis Road, Royersford, Pa.   Visitation will be from 4:00 – 5:30pm on December 3.  There will be an opportunity during the service for guests to offer their remembrances.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests those who desire may send a donation to support brain cancer research in MJ’s name to the Abramson Cancer Center, Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania,  Attn: Penn Medicine Development, 3535 Market Street, Suite 750, Philadelphia, PA 19104-3309.  Checks made be made payable to “Trustees of the University of Pennsylvania”.