Randall Lloyd Bare

Randall Lloyd Bare, 77, of Bradenton, died Dec. 27.

According to a family member, he was a wonderful family man and will be missed greatly.

Memorial donations may be made to the American Heart Association.

Mr. Bare is survived by his wife, Rose Quin-Bare; sisters-in-laws Lorraine Mazza, Roberta Ramirez, Carol Frasca and Charlene Mazza; his brothers-in-law Frank Frasca, Claude Mazza, Atry Mazza; step-children Jackie Cate and Kelly Quin; grandchildren Rachael Cate, Caitlin Kos and Clint William Kos.

Johanne Cook

Johanne Cook, 78, of Grandville, Barlow Lake, Mich., and Anna Maria, died Dec. 24.

She and husband Ron Cook started Cook Funeral Home in 1957, now in its third generation of family service. They continued their teamwork in co-founding Byron Center Manor in 1989.

Mrs. Cook was known as a precise and witty woman. In her free time, she enjoyed her dogs, cross-stitch, reading and traveling. She loved to walk the beaches of Anna Maria Island. She suffered for 25 years from Alzheimer’s, which inspired the building of Meadow Place at Byron Center Manor in Michigan.

Visitation was held at Cook Memorial Chapel in Grandville, Mich. A funeral service was held at First Reformed Church of Grandville. Interment will be at Grandville Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Alzheimer’s Association or the First Reformed Church of Grandville Scholarship Fund. The family welcomes messages in the online guestbook at www.cookcares.com.

Mrs. Cook is survived by her husband of 58 years, Ronald R. Cook; children Fred and wife Kathy VanZytveld, Brad and wife Jeanne Oosterbaan, Lee and wife Mary Goffe, Jean Alice and husband Jon Van Den Beldt; grandchildren Leanne Gurley, Ronald R. II, Emily Pierson, Sam, Alex, Brian, Elizabeth; great grandsons Stewart Scott Gurley, Greyson Ronald and Fred Henry Gurley; and sisters-in-law Carol and Donna.

Rock Curtis Payne

Rock Curtis Payne, 83, of Holmes Beach, died Dec. 28.

Mr. Payne was a lifelong resident of Manatee County. He was born Oct. 26, 1929in Gillette. He attended Palm View Elementary and graduated from Palmetto High School. He enlisted in the U.S. Air Force in 1950, serving in both France and Germany.

He graduated in 1956 from Florida State University where he met and married the love of his life. After a short time working as a reporter for the Atlanta Constitution, he returned to Palmetto to become the editor of the new Palmetto News.

He later received a Master of Educational Administration from the University of Florida and started his second career as an educator, although he never forgot his passion for writing. He completed his autobiography many years later. He spent the rest of his professional life, more than 30 years, as an educator. His first teaching position was in social studies at Walker Junior High School in Bradenton. He later served as principal at Parrish Elementary, Samoset Elementary and Bayshore Middle School. He opened Sugg Middle School in 1975 and served there until his retirement in 1988.

The family noted he was a wonderful husband and father whose love and devotion to his family will never be forgotten.

Graveside services will be held at Fogartyville Cemetery at 2 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 3. The Rev. Jerry Jeter of RiverLife Church will officiate. Arrangements are by Griffith Cline Funeral Home, 720 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton.

Mr. Payne is survived by his wife of 56 years, Joanne; daughters Jo Nan and Robin and husband Jeffery Spann.

Terry Alan Petesch

Terry Alan Petesch, 62, of Cortez, died Nov. 27, 2012.

Mr. Petesch was the owner of Terry’s Framing and Art Supplies, 5360 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key.

Friends of Mr. Petesch are inviting the community to celebrate “A Tribute To Terry … A Celebration of the Life and Friendship of Terry Petesch” 1-4 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 6, at the Longboat Key Center for the Arts in the north-end village at 6860 Longboat Drive S., Longboat Key.

They ask that guests bring photos or memorabilia to the event.

Mr. Petesch is survived by his godsons, twins Clay Sidner and Cole Sidner and David Radtke.

Alice Christie

Alice Christie of Anna Maria died Dec. 6. She was born in Pierce, Fla.

On graduating in 1946 from Mulberry High School, she settled in Lakeland, and became a loving and cherished wife and mother, and a tireless and compassionate caregiver. She retired to Anna Maria in the late 1980s.

Mrs. Christie was a Christian, a lifelong Democrat, and, as described by her daughter, a wicked-faithful Boston Red Sox fan and the epitome of the Irish Claddagh’s meaning of love, loyalty and friendship.

Arrangements were by Kicliter Funeral Home of Palmetto.

Mrs. Christie is survived by daughter Debera Elaine Thompson of Anna Maria.

Jack Newton Lewis

Jack Newton Lewis, 65, of Bradenton, died Dec. 18. He was born Oct. 22, 1947, in Houston to Louise and Henry LaFayette Lewis.

He received a bachelor’s degree in finance from the University of Houston and a master’s degree in business administration from the University of Maryland. He was a proud member of the Sigma Chi fraternity.

Following his education, he served his country in the U.S. Army and the U.S. Army Reserves as a finance officer. Jack worked more than 30 years for Chevy Chase Federal Bank in Maryland, retiring as a vice president in 2005. He served his church, most recently as treasurer and Eucharistic minister at the Episcopal Church of the Annunciation, Holmes Beach.

Mr. Lewis was known for his keen intelligence, wit and charm, and was a loyal and steadfast friend.

A funeral service was held Dec. 22, at the Episcopal Church of the Annunciation, 4408 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach, followed by a celebration of life and reception. Memorial donations may be made to the Church of the Annunciation, 4408 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach, FL 34217-1829.

Frank Paul Ransom

Frank Paul Ransom, 54, of Holmes Beach, died Dec. 17. He was born in Columbus, Ohio.

A celebration of life will be planned at a later date. Arrangements were by Griffith-Cline Funeral Home, Bradenton.

Survivors include his mother, Ireta Wood; and 12-year companion Kim Morgan.

John Sandberg

John Sandberg, 83, of Viera, Fla., and formerly of Bradenton Beach, died Oct. 24. He was born Aug. 9, 1929, in McCleary, Wash., to Einar A. and Jane (Little) Sandberg.

Mr. Sandberg went to Washington State College where he received a doctorate in education in 1956. During his undergraduate years at Washington State College, he worked in the summer for the National Forest Service at Lake Quinault, where he served on fire crews and worked on the construction of roads and trails.

He married Mollie Rehm Aug. 29, 1953. He then joined the U.S. Navy, serving active duty in the Korean War and two years as the executive officer of the USS Surfbird. He continued another 24 years as a Naval Reserve officer, retiring with the rank of captain.

In 1976, he was recognized by the University of Guam, which he had helped to establish, for educational and sociological work he had done for the people of the Central Pacific. He retired in 1986 from his educational career as dean of the School of Education at Western Michigan University in Kalamazoo.

Following retirement, the Sandbergs relocated to Bradenton Beach, where he became active in the community. He spearheaded the construction and operation of the Tingley Memorial Library, 111 Second St., Bradenton Beach.

He also chaired the committee that developed the rehabilitation plans of the historic downtown area using a $500,000 grant awarded to the city.

In 2005, he and Mollie moved from Bradenton Beach to the Indian River Colony Club in Viera.

He is survived by his wife of 59 years, Mollie; children Mike, Jill, and Julie; grandchildren John Jacob, Samantha, Sydney and Vicki Fenton.

Nothing to report

Daniel Patrick Connelly

Daniel Patrick Connelly, 55, formerly of Holmes Beach, died Dec. 6 in England. He was born Sept. 25, 1957.

Mr. Connelly moved to Florida from Leeds, England, with his three children and wife Wendy Connelly.

He was a frequent visitor to the Rod & Reel and Anna Maria City piers, and operated several online sales businesses. He had recently returned to England, with hopes to return to Anna Maria Island.

He will be greatly missed by his children and wife and many locals on Anna Maria Island.

Mr. Connelly is survived by sons Philip and Daniel, daughter Louise and wife Wendy; and grandchildren Brianna, Allie, Zachary, Jada Lark and Jacob

Seim.

Jeanne Larson Finn

Jeanne Larson Finn, 87, of Bradenton and a resident of Holmes Beach since 1987, died Dec. 2. She was born Jan. 4, 1925, in Jamestown, N.Y.

She graduated from Corry High School and before being wed was society editor for the Corry Journal, both in Corry, Pa. She married James N. Finn July 8, 1950.

The couple lived in Erie, Pa., and maintained a summer cottage for more than 60 years in Findley Lake, N.Y. They took up residence in Holmes Beach upon retirement and had recently moved to Bradenton. Mrs. Finn enjoyed golf, reading, sewing, knitting and card playing. She was an active member of Gloria Dei Lutheran Church, especially enjoyed the Tuesday quilt group, and was proud of their accomplishments. She was a past member of The Order of the Eastern Star.

A service was held Dec. 8, at Gloria Dei Lutheran Church, 6608 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. The Rev. Rosemary Backer officiated. Memorial donations may be made to Gloria Dei Lutheran Church or the charity of one’s choice.

Arrangements were by Brown & Sons Funeral Homes & Crematory 43rd Street Chapel, Bradenton. Condolences my be made online at www.brownandsonsfuneral.com.

Mrs. Finn is survived by her husband of 62 years, Jim; daughter Barbara and husband Don Proctor of Erie, Pa.; granddaughter Susan and husband Nick Martino; grandson Michael and wife Gretchen Proctor of Falls Church, Va.; great-granddaughters Julia and Giana Martino; and several cousins.

James Jerome Jenkins

James Jerome Jenkins, 89, of Anna Maria, distinguished Research Professor Emeritus, University of South Florida, died Nov. 17. He was born July 29, 1923, in St. Louis, the third son of Joe E. and Frances Reynolds Jenkins. “Jim” and wife “Win” were residents of Florida since 1982 resided in Anna Maria since 1990.

After serving in World War II as an Army Air Corp meteorologist 1942-47, Jim earned his doctorate in experimental psychology from the University of Minnesota and continued to teach and do research there until 1982, when he moved to the University of South Florida to become chair of the psychology department.

Dr. Jenkins played a significant role in the development of cognitive psychology and psycholinguistics in the 1960s. He conducted research on learning, language and memory for more than 50 years, later specializing in the perception of speech in collaboration with his wife, Dr. Winifred Strange. He mentored more than 80 PhD students at the Universities of Minnesota and South Florida before retiring in 2000.

He joined the faculty of the City University of New York-Graduate Center, as visiting research professor and continued to collaborate with Dr. Strange and her graduate students.

Dr. Jenkins took up watercolors and summers were spent at the couple’s lakeside cabin in Fifty Lakes, Minn.

Dr. Jenkins is survived by wife Winifred; son Christopher; daughter Lynn; seven grandchildren, seven great-grandchildren; two daughters-in-law; and three granddaughters-in-law.

Joseph P. Smith

Joseph P. Smith, 81, of Anna Maria, died Nov. 15. He was born Sept. 9, 1931, in Newark, N.J.

Mr. Smith was a veteran of the U.S. Navy. He worked in sales, and moved to Pinellas County in 1969, where he owned a restaurant. He moved to Anna Maria from Citrus County in 2002.

A private memorial gathering is planned at a later date.

Mr. Smith is survived by his children, Kathy and husband Skip Long of Anna Maria, Sheila and husband Randy Johnson of Houston, Sharon Davis of Blanchard, Ok., and Donna and David Smith of Clearwater; four grandchildren; one great-grandchild; and his good friends, Joe, Bob, Josh and Neville.

John Robert ‘Bob’ Ware

John Robert “Bob” Ware, 59, of Jacksonville and formerly of Holmes Beach, died Dec. 1 at his Barlow Hunting Club home near Meredosia. Ill. He was born Oct. 28, 1953, in Joliet, Ill., the son of Richard and Maysel Jones Ware. He was married Dec. 28, 1974, to Cheryl Watson.

Mr. Ware was a 1971 graduate of Jacksonville High School, where he excelled in athletics and holds several track and field records. He was inducted into the JHS Hall of Fame in 1988. He attended Illinois Wesleyan University where he took part in track and was a member of Tau Kappa Epsilon.

He joined his family’s business, Ware Oil Company (Wareco) in 1974, and remained there as vice-president of operations until 2001.

Mr. Ware spent winters in Florida with his family and served as vice-president of the Westbay Cove South condominium association, Holmes Beach. He loved golf and fishing, and was instrumental in the development of the Barlow Hunting Club. He was a fan of the New York Yankees and Green Bay Packers.

A celebration of life was held in Jacksonville. Memorials are suggested to the Jacksonville Public Schools Foundation or Ducks Unlimited. Airsman-Hires Williamson Funeral Homes in Jacksonville was in charge of arrangements. Condolences to the family may be made online at www.airsman-hires.com.

Mr. Ware is survived by wife Cheryl; daughters Abby and husband David Nagel of St. Louis and Kelly and husband, John Armour of Nashville, Tenn.; grandchildren, John Robert “Jack” Armour and Ruth Sophia Armour, both of Nashville, Tenn.; father Richard and wife, Anne Ware, sister Vickie and husband Danny Brooks, brother Jim and wife, Leslie, all of Jacksonville; several nieces, nephews and great-nieces and great-nephews.

John A. Bacich

John A. Bacich, 93, of Anna Maria and Minneapolis died Nov. 25 in Minneapolis. He was born in Duluth, Minn., to George and Victoria Bacich, the youngest of five children.

He spent his childhood in Oliver, Wis., until the family moved to St. Paul. There he graduated from Cretin High School in 1937 and attended St. Thomas College. He enlisted in the U.S. Army and was stationed in several states prior to the outbreak of World War II. He fought in Europe during the war, being promoted to lieutenant. After the war, he continued in the army reserves for more than 20 years, retiring with the rank of major.

He married Barbara Madsen in 1965 and they wintered in Anna Maria, where they eventually made their permanent home.

Mr. Bacich owned a number of businesses in Minneapolis including real estate investments. He belonged to the Minneapolis Business Forum, Shriners, VFW and American Legion. In Florida, he was an active booster of Anna Maria Island, supporting many public interests. He was a founding member of the Pier Regulars, and also was a member of the Key Royale Club, the Minnesota Club and others. He attended St. Bernard Catholic Church, Holmes Beach, and was a faithful member of Church of Annunciation, Minneapolis, for 65 years.

He will be long remembered by many good friends for his kind heart, generous nature and loyal friendship.

He was especially willing to help young people in need, both on Anna Maria Island and in Haiti.

A Mass of Christian burial was held Dec. 4 at Church of Annunciation, Minneapolis. Interment will be at Lakewood Cemetery, Minneapolis. Memorial donations may be made to Salvation Army or Peace House, 512 E. Franklin, Minneapolis MN 55404. Gill Brothers Funeral Home of Minneapolis was in charge of arrangements. Condolences for the family may be made at www.gillbrothers.com.

Mr. Bacich is survived by Barbara, his loving wife of 47 years and family.

Jeanne Larson Finn

Jan. 4, 1925 – Dec. 2, 2012

Jeanne Larson Finn, 87, of Bradenton and a resident of Holmes Beach since 1987, died Dec. 2. She was born Jan. 4, 1925, in Jamestown, N.Y.

She graduated from Corry High School and before being wed was society editor for the Corry Journal. She married James N. Finn July 8, 1950.

The couple lived in Erie, Pa., and maintained a summer cottage for more than 60 years in Findley Lake, N.Y. They took up residence in Holmes Beach on retirement and had recently moved to Bradenton. Mrs. Finn enjoyed golf, reading, sewing, knitting and card playing.

She was an active member of Gloria Dei Lutheran Church and especially enjoyed the Tuesday quilt group, and was proud of their accomplishments. She was a past member of The Order of the Eastern Star.

Friends are invited to a service at 3 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 8, at Gloria Dei Lutheran Church, 6608 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach. The Rev. Rosemary Backer will officiate.

Friends also are invited to join the family for a light meal in the church fellowship hall immediately following the service. Memorial donations may be made to Gloria Dei Lutheran Church or the charity of one’s choice.

Arrangements were by Brown & Sons Funeral Homes & Crematory 43rd Street Chapel, Bradenton. Condolences my be made online at www.brownandsonsfuneral.com.

Mrs. Finn is survived by her husband of 62 years, Jim; daughter Barbara and husband Don Proctor of Erie, Pa.; granddaughter Susan and husband Nick Martino; grandson Michael and wife Gretchen Proctor of Falls Church, Va.; great-granddaughters Julia and Giana Martino; and several cousins.

Laura Ann Menzie

Laura Ann Menzie, 76, of Bradenton Beach and formerly of Lake Orion, Mich., died Nov. 19.

A celebration of her life was held Nov. 23 in Bradenton Beach. A memorial service will take place at a later date in Michigan. Covell Funeral Home of Bradenton is in charge of arrangements.

Mrs. Menzie is survived by her children, Chari and husband David Garet, Lori and husband John Marentic and James and wife Kim; grandchildren Stephanie, Jackie, Morgan, Tom, Kara and Kelly; sisters Nancy, Ellen and Sharon “Cookie.”

Edward Henry Mullaney

Edward Henry Mullaney, 70 of Holmes Beach and formerly of Cherry Hill, N.J., died Oct. 16.

Mr. Mullaney was an accomplished salesman and owned his own business for 30 years. He had a private pilot license, was a member of the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary, the Navy League and Moose Lodge No. 2188. He loved boating, flying, snowmobiling and, most recently, RVing.

Visitation and a gathering of relatives and friends was held at the Creran Funeral Home in Oaklyn, N.J., and at the Church of St. Isaac Jogues, 3 Lord Place, Marlton, N.J. A Mass of Christian burial was celebrated at the church. Entombment was at New St. Mary’s Cemetery, Bellmawr, N.J. Memorial donations may be made to a charity of choice online at www.creranfh.com.

Mr. Mullaney is survived by wife Merilyn J. (nee Angermann); daughters Meri Sue and husband John Cackowski, Christine, Kimberly and husband Tony Canduci; son Douglas Mullaney; grandchildren Steven, Lauren, Brian, Samantha, Michael, Christopher, Nicholas, Tommy and Brittany; and brother Jerry and wife Joan.

James A. Ross

James A. Ross, 72, of Bradenton and a long-time resident of Holmes Beach, died Nov. 21.

After graduating college with his degree in engineering, he served in the U.S. Army Rangers stationed from 1963 to 1969 in Fort Benning, Ga.. Along with his father Anthony, they held several patents, the most prominent being the Ross Temp Automatic Flaked Ice Machine, which can still be seen in hotels today.

He later ran the Jungle Queen charter boat out of Cortez for several years.

A private memorial service was planned.

Mr. Ross is survived by wife Cindy; son Gregory and wife Lee and two grandsons of Holmes Beach; sister Judi Williams of Wheaton, Ill.; stepdaughter Melissa; and grandson James Wardell of Bradenton.

Walter Thomas Bell

Walter Thomas Bell, 89, was born Aug. 25, 1923, in Cortez Village to Aaron Parx Bell and Jessie Blanche Fulford Bell. He died Nov. 20.

Mr. Bell served in the Merchant Marines in World War II. He often said that he saw enough of the world during those years to know that he was happy to be back in Cortez.

He was part owner and manager of A.P. Bell Fish Company and a proud supporter of Florida’s seafood industry. In his younger years, he loved to run a gill net for mullet, pompano and mackerel. Had he ever retired, he wanted to return to the water to catch pompano.

Even though he would probably have preferred to fish, in the early 1960s he began working at the fish house. He adapted well to buying and selling local catches from commercial fishers. He had a laid back personality that earned him the respect of fishers and customers alike.

Some of his business “rules” were to pay fair prices; pay on correct weights; always pay the fishermen promptly, saying often, “If you’re in the fish business and you can’t pay for the fish, you shouldn’t be in the fish business;” and spend money locally whenever possible.

He always had a smile, listened more than he spoke and was generous even when he knew better. All of these qualities and beliefs were important to Walter and contributed to his success in business and happiness in life.

A graveside service will be held at 2 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 28, at Palma Sola Community Church, 8604 Ninth Ave. NW, Bradenton. Friends are invited to gather at A.P. Bell Fish Company in Cortez to share memories and fishing stories following the service.

Mr. Bell is survived by brothers Chester and Doug and daughters Karen and Lisa.

Gaetano ‘Guy’ Gebbia

Gaetano “Guy” Gebbia, 90, of Perico Bay Club, Bradenton, died Sept. 27, three weeks before his 91st birthday.

Mr. Gebbia was born in Bronx, N.Y., married his wife Marie and moved his family to Valley Cottage, Rockland City, N.Y., in 1957. They moved to Bradenton in 1984.

As a young man in the Bronx, he was a Golden Gloves boxing finalist in his class.

He served his country in the U.S. Army Air Corps in World War II as a gunner and acquired a love for flying. He worked for the NYC Manhattan and Brown Surface Transit Operating Authority for more than 20 years. He acquired his pilot’s license at age 55, purchased a Cessna 150, and pursued his passion of flying.

After retirement in Florida, he spent much of his time flying to various locations and flying with the Young Eagles. His greatest flying accomplishment was flying 8,878 perimeter miles of the United States solo, landing in each state.

He played golf and baseball, having met Joe DiMaggio. He also was known for rebuilding cars and drag racing in the 1960s.

A Mass of Christian burial and interment was held in Nyack, N.Y.

There will be a memorial lunch and gathering of family and friends noon-2 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 24, at St. Bernard Catholic Parrish Center, 248 S. Harbor Drive, Holmes Beach.

Mr. Gebbia is survived by daughter Cheryl; son Guy and wife Karen; daughter Kathryn and husband John Magee, son Gary and wife Colleen; numerous grandchildren; great-grandchildren and three great-great grandchildren.

James Jerome Jenkins

      James Jerome Jenkins, 89, of Anna Maria, died Nov. 17.

Memorial Services will be at a later date. Brown & Sons Funeral Homes & Crematory 43rd Street Chapel is in charge. Condolences may be made online at www.brownandsonsfuneral.com

James G ‘Jim’ Davis

James G. “Jim” Davis of Holmes Beach died Nov. 3. He was a native of Atlanta.

Mr. Davis attended Boys High School and Georgia Tech before entering the U.S. Army Air Corps as an aviation cadet in 1942, graduating as a pilot in class 43-F. He served as pilot in the China-Burma-India theatre, where he was awarded the DFC, two Air Medals, Presidential Citations, China War Memorial Medal and others. He received his Air Line Transport Pilots Rating in 1948 and joined the Civil Aviation Authority, now the Federal Aviation Administration, and became a specialist in Air Traffic Control, Facility Flight Inspection and Air Carrier Operations.

During his second tour in Europe with the FAA, he was awarded the Secretary’s Award for Valor. Following retirement from the FAA in 1980, he was recruited by ICAO (International Civil Aviation Organization) as an aviation expert. In his total career, he accumulated more than 16,000 flight hours as pilot and worked with the civil aviation authorities of 37 foreign countries.

He married Lillian Marguerite Michael, also of Atlanta, in 1946. Before moving to Holmes Beach several years ago, he was a member of the First United Methodist Church of Marietta, Ga.

Memorial donations may be made to Roser Memorial Community Church, P.O. Box 247, Anna Maria FL 34216.

Mr. Davis is survived by sister Mrs. Dale Topping of Roswell; daughter Mrs. Debbie Davis Holman of Marietta; son James G. Davis Jr. of Hiawassee; granddaughters Mrs. Courtenay Holman Wall and Ms. Haley Holman, both of Marietta, and Rebecca Davis of Hiawassee; and five great-grandchildren.

Kenneth L. Freshwater Sr.,

Kenneth L. Freshwater Sr., 88, of Natrona Heights, Pa., and Bradenton Beach, died Nov. 6 in Concordia, Pa.. He was born Aug. 18, 1924, in New Kensington, Pa., to the late Harry L. and Cora (Hahn) Freshwater.

Mr. Freshwater lived most of his life in Fawn Township, Pa., and wintered in Florida for 30 years. He was a glasscutter at PPG, Creighton, for more than 41 years and was a part-time police officer in the township for 10 years. He was a World War II veteran of the U.S. Army, a member of the 489th 4th Armored Division that landed in Normandy Beach on D-Day under Gen. George S. Patton.

He was a member of Holy Martyrs Church, Tarentum, , Pa., life member and past commander of Tarentum VFW Post 5758; Brackenridge American Legion Post 226, Moose Lodge of Bradenton Beach, and was the park manager at Pines Trailer Park in Bradenton Beach for nine years. He enjoyed hunting, fishing and camping.

He and wife Josephine celebrated 70 years of marriage Sept. 28.

Visitation for relatives and friends was to be in Tarentum, Pa., with a memorial Mass celebrated Nov. 9. Interment was in Mount Airy Cemetery, Natrona Heights, Pa., with full military honors by the Tarentum VFW and Brackenridge American Legion. Memorial donations may be made to Good Samaritan Hospice of Concordia online at www.dusterfuneralhomeinc.com.

Mr. Freshwater is survived by wife, Josephine M. (Denis); children Juanita and John Graham of Tarentum, Barbara Dobrowolski of Natrona Heights, Mary Lou and husband Chad Cohen of Natrona Heights, Joseph and wife Mary Myers of Saratoga Springs, N.Y., Louise and husband Mark Fiorina of Lower Burrell, Ronald and wife Candis of Leechburg, Joanne and husband Robert Wislie of Natrona Heights, Jeanne Tarpley and husband Tim Pacek of Tarentum, Mark and wife Robin of Cleveland, Paul and wife Tracy of Fawn Township; 30 grandchildren; 24 great-grandchildren; and two great-great grandchildren.

Christoforos Gikas

Christoforos Gikas, 88, of Bradenton Beach, died Nov. 9. He was born on April 4, 1924, in Doverna, Greece.

Mr. Gikas served with the Army in Greece and immigrated to the United States in 1953. He settled in Cedar Grove, N.J., where he owned and operated several restaurants in Cedar Grove and Livingston, N.J. He moved to Bradenton Beach in 2005.

He was a member of the St. Barbara’s Greek Orthodox Church in Sarasota.

Visitation and Trisagion service were held at Shannon Funeral Home Westview Chapel, Bradenton. Services were Nov. 12 at St. Barbara’s Greek Orthodox Church. Memorial donations may be made to the church. Condolences for the family may be made online at www.shannonfuneralhomes.com. Shannon Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.

Mr. Gikas is survived by his wife, Katina (Moulkiotis); sons Chris of Woodcliff Lakes, N.J., and Bill of Bradenton Beach; brother Nonda Gikas of Paramus, N.J.; sisters Rita Drivas of Fort Lee, N.J., and Evgania Mihalis of Doverna, Greece; and grandsons Christopher and Stefanos of Woodcliff Lakes, N.J.

Robinson G. ‘Bob’ King Jr.

Robinson G. “Bob” King Jr., died Nov. 5, at Langdale Hospice House in Valdosta, Ga. He was born May 9, 1924, in Des Moines, Iowa, to the late Robinson G. King Sr. and Gladys Marie Minehart.

During World War II, Mr. King enlisted in the U.S. Navy and, on receiving his wings, became a flight instructor at the age of 20. He retired as a commander after serving 28 years in the Navy Reserve.

His passion for flying continued for more than 50 years. He logged 15,000 hours of flight time and earned the nickname “Sky King.”

After the war, he graduated from Iowa State University with a degree in civil engineering. In 1964, after several years working in the construction industry, he started his own general construction company, King-Bole Inc., in Des Moines.

Mr. King retired in 1994 and, with wife, Nancy, moved to Anna Maria Island, where they enjoyed flying, sailing, golfing, playing cards and traveling.

He was a member of the Order of Daedalians, the National Military Pilots Fraternity, Quiet Birdman and Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association. He was also a member of the Key Royale Club and was active in many organizations, including Master Builders of Iowa, Za-Ga-Zig Flying Fez, Gulf Coast Shrine Club, American Legion, Meals on Wheels and Kiwanis Club of Anna Maria Island.

A celebration of life will follow at a later date in Bradenton. Memorial donations may be made to the Kiwanis Club of Anna Maria Foundation, P.O. Box 1215, Holmes Beach FL 34218.

Gordon L. Lindstrom

Gordon L. Lindstrom, 88, of Holmes Beach, died Nov. 2. He was born in Minneapolis and moved to Holmes Beach in 1995.

Mr. Lindstrom was a veteran of the U.S. Navy Seabees during World War II. He was a member of the Northwest Baptist Church in Bradenton, and the Key Royale Club in Homes Beach.

Arrangements were by Brown & Sons Funeral Homes & Crematory 43rd Street Chapel in charge.

Condolences may be made online at www.brownandsonsfuneral.com.

Mr. Lindstrom is survived by his wife of 52 years, Bobbe; son Tom of Chandler of Arizona; daughters, Debbie and husband Tom Welch of Minneapolis and Kristen and husband Steve Nelson of Scottsdale, Ariz.; four grandchildren; and three great grandchildren.

Gloria J. Svec

Gloria J. Svec, 86, a 25-year resident of Holmes Beach, died Oct. 31. She was born in Willoughby, Ohio.

She was employed at General Electric of Jefferson where she was the shop operations coordinator. While living on Anna Maria Island, Gloria worked at Walgreens.

Mrs. Svec was a wonderful cook and always looked forward to gatherings at her home with friends and family. She enjoyed long beach walks. She will be remembered for her love of family, her fierce independence and her willingness to go out of her way to help others. Gloria was a member of St. Bernard Catholic Church.

Mrs. Svec is survived by daughters Linda Hazelton of Geneva, Ohio, and Lana Craig of Bradenton, five grandchildren, and seven great-grandchildren.

A memorial Mass was held Nov. 3 at St. Bede the Venerable Catholic Church in Mentor, Ohio. Memorial ccontributions may be made to Hospice of the Western Reserve, 1166 Lake Ave., Ashtabula OH 44004.

James G. ‘Jim’ Davis

James J. “Jim” Davis, 90, of Holmes Beach and a native of Atlanta, died Nov. 3.

He attended Boys High School and Georgia Tech before entering the U.S. Army Air Corps as an aviation cadet in 1942, graduating as a pilot the following year.

He served as a pilot in the China-Burma theater where we was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross, two Air Force medals, presidential citations, China War Memorial Medal and others.

He went on to have a successful career with the Federal Aviation Administration. In 1975, he was awarded the Secretary’s Award for Valor for successfully executing an emergency airlift of FAA and embassy families from Beirut Lebanon when a state of civil war existed, and the city was under fire.

In 1980, he was recruited as an aviation expert for the International Civil Aviation Organization.

He retired at the age of 65 with more than 16,000 flight hours.

Mr. Davis moved to Holmes Beach several years ago and was a member of Roser Memorial Community Church.

A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. Wednesday, Nov. 7, at Roser Memorial Community Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria.

Memorial donations can be made to Roser Church, P.O. Box 247, Anna Maria FL 34216.

Mr. Davis is survived by daughter Mrs. Robert Holman, of Marietta, Ga.; son James G. of Hiawassee, Ga.; three granddaughters and five great-grandchildren..

Jesus Rosario

Jesus Rosario, 51, died Oct. 31. He was born in San Juan, Puerto Rico. He later lived and worked in Massachusetts before coming to Florida.

Mr. Rosario found his home, however, when he came to Anna Maria Island and specifically to the Anna Maria City Pier, according to pier manager David Sork.

“Jesus will be sadly missed by family and friends,” he said, adding, “His friends were many and cut across economic, social and international barriers. He was a fixture at the pier as a fisherman and then as dockmaster. He would talk to everyone, but he especially loved to teach first-timers to fish. He loved to see the looks on their face when they caught their first fish and, most especially, loved to see kids ‘hooked’ on fishing.

“He was a friend to all and always could be heard laughing on the pier. His laugh was infectious, his manner loud and raucous, and he never missed an opportunity to meet newcomers, especially the ladies.

“He loved his bling, his job, and his grandchildren. His presence is missed, but his spirit will be felt on the Anna Maria City Pier for many years to come,” said Sork.

Visitation was held Nov. 4 at Covell Funeral Home, 4232 26th St. W., Bradenton.

David Maley

David Maley of Holmes Beach, 72, died Oct. 22. He was born in Altus, OK.

Mr. Maley served in the U.S. Navy and lived most of his life in Texas where he attended Texas Tech University and later was the director of a children’s home.

The family will host a celebration of life for friends at noon Saturday, Nov. 3, at their home Bradenton home.

Mr. Maley is survived by daughter Michelle Ellsworth-Smith, son Rich, and five grandchildren.

Helen J. ”Honey” Gillespie Sosnowski

Helen J. ”Honey” Gillespie Sosnowski, 90, of Holmes Beach, died Oct. 26. She was born June 5, 1922, in Grand Rapids, Mich.

She graduated with the class of 1940 from Catholic Central High School, Grand Rapids. She worked for Michigan Bell Telephone Co. in Grand Rapids.

She was a homemaker, gardener, wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend to all that knew her.

A memorial Mass will be celebrated at 11 a.m. Tuesday, Oct. 30, at St. Bernard Catholic Church, 248 S. Harbor Drive, Holmes Beach. Brown & Sons Funeral Homes & Crematory-43rd Street Chapel, Bradenton, is in charge of arrangements.

Memorial donations may be made to Tidewell Hospice & Palliative Care, 5955 Rand Blvd., Sarasota FL 34238, or a charity of one’s choice. Condolences may be made online at www.brownandsonsfuneral.com.

Mrs. Sosnowski is survived by her husband of 57 years, Edie C.; children Susan A. and husband Raymond Avado, Bernard E. and wife Vicki, Wally C. and wife Susie, Marcia J. and husband Jack Neumeyer, Mary Lou and husband Jack Avado, Edie, Tom, Sally A., Barbara J. and husband Fritz Spotleson, Robert J., Julia A., Steve M. and Julia A.; 22 grandchildren; 34 great-grandchildren; two great-great grandchildren; and many nephews and nieces,

Carol B. Thompson

Carol Betty Beard Krehbiel Thompson, 91, of Clarence Center, N.Y., Anna Maria Island and Bradenton , died Oct. 23 in Bradenton. She was born Dec. 25, 1920.

Mrs. Thompson first visited Anna Maria Island in the early 1960s and purchased a winter residence in the early 1970s. She and her second husband, Charlie Thompson, enjoyed 14 winters on Anna Maria.

Christmas Carol, as she was known, moved to the Windsor Oaks Assisted Living in Bradenton in May 2011. She was a member of Clarence Center United Methodist Church and attended Roser Memorial Community Church in Anna Maria.

A memorial service was to be held at 2 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 30, in the Roser Chapel at Roser Memorial Community Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria. Memorial donations may be made to Roser Church, P.O. Box 247, Anna Maria FL 3421, or Tidewell Hospice & Palliative Care, 5955 Rand Blvd., Sarasota FL 34238.

Mrs. Thompson is survived by her children, son Thomas K. Krehbiel and wife Elizabeth of Buffalo, N.Y., and Tucson, Ariz., daughter Karen L. Abell and husband Richard of Venice, Fla., and Travers City, Mich., and Wendy K. Holcomb and husband Jon of Holmes Beach; 11 grandchildren; 22 great-grandchildren; sister Norma Beard of Deland, Fla.; and brother Roland K. Beard Jr. of Maryland.