William (Bill) Frank Seibert, 94, passed away peacefully on January 4, 2025, in Naples, Florida. Born on July 19, 1930, Bill entered the world in the historic neighborhood of “Little Germany” in South Philadelphia.
He was predeceased by his beloved wife of 75 years, Joan Irene Long Seibert, who passed on May 17, 2023; his parents, Charles and Martha Klein; his sister, Florence (Sissy) Gregg; and his brother Charles, who died before Bill was born. His father, a World War I veteran, passed away in 1936 when Bill was just six years old. Faced with heartbreaking circumstances, Bill’s mother made the difficult decision to enroll him in Girard College, a school for orphaned boys founded by Philadelphia philanthropist, Stephen Girard.
At Girard College, Bill found a second family among his classmates, whom he fondly called his “brothers.” Though the early days were challenging—he was only allowed to see his mother at Christmas and Easter and during the summer—Bill flourished. He excelled academically, graduating second in his class, and participated in various activities, including soccer, serving as editor of the Corinthian Yearbook, and acting as Treasurer for the Class of 1948, known as the “Hummers.”
It was during this time that Bill met the love of his life, Joan Irene Long, at a dance. As the story goes, Joan attended the dance with a renowned soccer player named Joe and spotted a young man in the corner of the room whose face was adorned with lipstick marks. On walking home, Joan inquired about this mysterious man, and Joe graciously revealed his name to be “Sib” and offered to make introductions. A couple of months later, on a chilly evening, Joan (or “Peaches” as he called her) and Sib shared their first kiss, beginning a lifetime of love that they often said “started with a cold nose.”
Bill and Joan built a beautiful life together, raising their eight daughters and living in various homes across Philadelphia, Blackwood, Haddonfield, Sea Isle City, Indialantic, and Naples. Known for their Midas touch in real estate (and with real estate licenses in hand), the couple often bought and sold properties, turning each one into a cherished family home before moving on to new adventures. One of those real estate adventures landed them in Brigantine, NJ where they invested in condos with and for their daughters; creating a legacy there as well.
Bill’s professional life was equally remarkable. He leveraged the skills he learned at Girard College to build a career as a nuclear power plant engineer, draftsman, and architect. Over his career, he worked for many Philadelphia-area companies, including The York Corporation, General Industries, DuPont (through All States), Philadelphia Electric, United Engineers, and Stone & Webster in Cherry Hill, NJ. Although he only had two years of college at Drexel University, Bill’s exceptional talent and leadership earned him the position of supervising a team of 290 mechanical engineers at Stone & Webster by the time of his retirement in 1985.
Following his retirement, Bill pursued his passion for design, working with his Girard brother and best friend, Brendan Beaumont, as an architect for hundreds of houses along the Jersey Shore. His ingenuity and craftsmanship introduced a unique style of “signature houses,” many of which can still be seen and appreciated today. This chapter of his career was his favorite, as he found great joy in leaving a lasting mark on the community through his work.
Throughout his life, Bill never forgot his cherished Alma Mater, Girard College. He and Joan visited the college at least once a year on Founders Day and donated money to the school to ensure its continued success. Recently, Bill was honored by the college for his philanthropy, specifically for his generosity in funding the creation of a state-of-the-art Iwall to be installed in the school’s Founders Hall. He took great pride in this honor and in the fact that two of his sons-in-law and his youngest granddaughter helped bring the project to fruition. It is through the Iwall that Bill’s legacy will continue to live on in the corridors of Girard College.
Although Bill’s life was extraordinary, he always said his most cherished roles were as a loving husband to his wife Joan and as a father. He often remarked that he was the luckiest man alive to have eight daughters. Bill jokingly said that every time they welcomed a new baby, he landed a new job!
Bill’s legacy lives on in the hearts of his eight daughters: Jacqueline Fessler (Michael-deceased), Kathleen Quigley (Richard-deceased), Joan Prassas (Ronald), Susan Steinberger (Gil), Darlene Keyser (Gary), Francine Loucks (Jim), Martha (Marcie) Steel (Rob), and Eileen Wambach (Bill). He is also survived by 27 grandchildren, 40 great-grandchildren, and 3 great-great-grandchildren.
Relatives and friends are invited to visit with Bill’s family on Saturday, January 11, 2025, from 9:30 to 10:45 a.m. at Christ the King Church, 200 Windsor Avenue, Haddonfield, NJ, where his funeral Mass will immediately follow at 11:00 a.m. Interment will take place at Haddonfield Baptist Cemetery in Haddonfield, NJ. Live-streaming of the funeral will be available on the church’s website at https://ctkhaddonfield.org/live-stream/.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made in Bill’s memory to theFund for Girard College, 2101 South College Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19121.
Patrick Joseph Walsh
Age: 85 of Haddonfield
Patrick Joseph Walsh of Haddonfield, NJ died on Friday, December 27th at the age of 85 after a long struggle with Alzheimer’s Disease.
He was a sweet and patient man, a lifelong lover of books, Irish music, running, skiing, hiking and woodworking. He was raised in West Philadelphia and graduated from St. Thomas More High School and LaSalle University. He spent much of his career teaching and coaching track & field at Clayton High School.
He is predeceased by his mother Catherine Walsh née McConnell of Cashel Glebe, Donegal, his father, John Walsh of Headford, Galway, and his brother, Jack.
He is survived by his wife, Kathleen, daughter Elizabeth (George), son Matthew (Lalitha), and two grandchildren, Hattie & Sabine.
Saturday, Jan 11, 2025
Visitation: 10 am, Mass 11 am
Sacred Heart Church, 1739 Ferry Ave, Camden
In lieu of flowers, donations to one of the following would be appreciated:
Meredith passed on December 25, 2024. He was a devoted husband to the late Margaret Elaine (nee Jungclaus); He is survived by his children Kenton (Maureen) Pauro, Russell (Kristine) Zoppina, and Pamela (Harold) Martin. Devoted friend Gordon (Kim) Smedley; grandfather to Gregory (Dawn) Martin, Kurt Martin, Eli (Danielle) Martin, Troy (Michelle) Martin, Tonya (Andy) Mariotti, David Martin, Vanessa (Ed) Kehoe, Daniel (Katherin) Pauro, Jonathan (Mary) Zoppina, Joshua Zoppina and Jacob Zoppina and many great grandchildren; dear cousin of Rich Grimsley and Caretaker Vicky Cesarano. Meredith will also be missed by his farm family, many cousins, and close friends.
Meredith was predeceased by his parents, Joseph Lawrence and Sara Dobbs, and his siblings, Lawrence and Sara.
His signature look of cowboy hat and boots got him recognized everywhere, even on the ski slopes of Utah. To his students, he was Mr. Dobbs, but if you knew and loved him and were part of his extended family, he was Mert or Pop Mert. Mert was often found around the fire, smoking his pipe with his favorite Paladin black cherry tobacco, offering sage advice and stories of his life. He grew up on Signey Run Farm. He was the devoted son of Sara or Clem as he affectionately called her, helping her with the farm and its chores. He was an Eagle Scout and enjoyed an active outdoor life. He was a scout master, camp counselor, member of the DeMolay and Order of the Arrow.
He joined the U.S. Army and served in Korea. When he came home, he went to Glassboro State teacher’s college and received his degree. He was a teacher for 36 years, most of those years spent at Samuel S. Yellin school in Stratford, New Jersey. When he retired, he continued to substitute teach until he was 80 years old.
Mert was a musician and played three instruments, he also was a conductor for the orchestra while in college. He loved animals and owned many dogs and horses throughout the years. Along with being an avid Horseman he enjoyed boating and water skiing, owning a home on the Mullica River for many years.
Mert also excelled at snow skiing. He skied all over the world. He was a National Ski Patrolman teaching children to ski and running the ski club at Yellin school. He taught his children and grandchildren how to ski, ensuring the passion would be passed down.
He loved his tiny town of Hi-Nella, N. J. Serving on council and then as its mayor for 12 years. He was president of the South Jersey Mayors Association in 2016 and passed his love of politics on to the next generation.
He leaves a hole in our hearts and will be missed by many.
Meredith’s family will receive friends and relatives on Friday, January 10th, 2025, 9:30-11:00 AM at Kain-Murphy Funeral Services, 15 West End Ave. Haddonfield, NJ. All are invited to his graveside service, Friday Jan. 10th at 1pm at B.G. Wm. C. Doyle Veterans Memorial Cem. 350 Province Line Rd, Wrightstown, NJ 08562. In lieu of flowers, charitable donations in Meredith’s name may be made to https://www.pawsofwar.org/donate
Rosemarie Krauss
Age 89 of Haddonfield, NJ
(nee Stamp) On December 30, 2024, Rosemarie “Dolly” Krauss passed away peacefully after a prolonged illness. She was the beloved wife of Gordon W. Krauss for 60 wonderful years, cherished mother of Gordon G. Krauss (Rachel) and Gregory W. Krauss (Sheri), and treasured grandmother of Gordon David Krauss, Eli Krauss, Taylor Krauss, and Max Krauss. She was also a devoted sister to Maxine, Ches, Don, Paul, and Sylvia.
Born in the Dominion of Newfoundland, a country that no longer exists, Dolly’s life was as unique as her rugged and beautiful homeland. She began her career as a fashion model, gracing the runways and advertisements with elegance and style, moving later to Louisiana continuing in her career before moving to Southern New Jersey. Later, she took on roles as a buyer at Wanamaker’s and as a law firm secretary at Crumblish and Kania, where her professionalism and dedication earned her the respect of colleagues.
Rosemarie will be remembered for her vibrant spirit, her love of good-natured pranks, and her boisterous laughter, which could light up any room. Her life was filled with hilarity and joy, and she had an incredible ability to bring people together with her warmth and wit. She was known as a prophetic fortune teller and palm reader, delighting friends and strangers alike with her uncanny insights.
She was an active and dedicated member of the Lutheran Church of Our Savior in Haddonfield, where her faith and kindness touched many lives, and where she served as part of the Stephen’s ministry comforting others at times of difficulty. In her free time, she enjoyed traveling “home” where she spent summers in Aquaforte, Newfoundland, painting, and spending time with her beloved family, who were the center of her world.
Dolly’s family will receive friends and relatives on Monday, January 6, 2025, from 10:00 to 10:45 AM at Kain-Murphy Funeral Services, 15 West End Ave., Haddonfield, NJ. Her funeral service will follow at 11:00 AM. Interment will take place at B.G. William C. Doyle Veterans Memorial Cemetery, 350 Province Line Rd., Wrightstown, NJ.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in honor of Dolly may be made to the Lutheran Church of Our Savior, 204 Wayne Ave., Haddonfield, NJ 08033, where she was a longtime and beloved member.
Dolly’s laughter and love echo in the hearts of all who knew her. She will be deeply missed and forever cherished.
Dorothy Gross
Age: 88 of Audubon, NJ
(nee Walgast) Passed away on December 19 2024. Dorothy was the devoted wife of the late Charles Joseph Gross; loving mother of Jeffrey (Colleen) Gross; cherished grandmother of Julia and Christian Gross; dear sister of Douglas Martin; adoring aunt of Gail, Judy, Mary, Suzanne, Kim and Tommy.
Dorothy was the owner of Second Time Around Antiques of Beach Haven and Audubon NJ. She had a love of Great Danes and horses. In her later years she enjoyed equestrian riding. She loved to travel with her husband Joe and enjoyed the beach.
Services were held privately. In lieu of flowers, charitable donations in Dorothy’s name may be sent to the Voorhees Animal Orphanage419 Cooper Rd Voorhees, NJ 08043.
Melvin O. Hill, Jr.
Age: 79 of Delanco, NJ
Passed away on December 18, 2024. Melvin was the loving husband of Robin Waddell; father of Matthew Hill and Marcie Pullano; Step-father of Robert (Jillian) Luessen; grandfather of Francesca Luessen.
Mel was born in Leechburg, PA graduating from Leechburg High School, continuing to Penn State University where he graduated with a BS in Health & Physical Education. He began his working career as a Physical Education teacher, followed by the YMCA where he spent the rest of his working life. Initially as a Program Director and later as the President/CEO of the YMCA of Camden County. He ended his career with the YMCA as the Executive Director/CEO of the Trenton New Jersey branch. Mel also served as the YMCA’s President of the New Jersey State Alliance, the New Jersey Public Policy Committee, the Association of Professional Directors, and the Camden County United Way Council of Executives.
Mel loved all sports, and followed the Eagles, Phillies and Flyers. He was an avid golfer, and after retiring he played all year round regardless of weather. He enjoyed Bocce, Horseshoes, and freshwater fishing.
Relatives and friends are invited to greet Melvin’s family on Saturday, January 18, 2025 from 11-11:45am at Kain-Murphy Funeral Services, 15 West End Ave. Haddonfield, NJ; where his Words of Remembrance will begin at 12 noon. In lieu of flowers, charitable donations in Melvin’s name may be made to the YMCA (https://www.philaymca.org/about/give).
Joyce Albrecht
Age: 85 of Collingswood, Formerly of Magnolia and Haddonfield
Passed away on December 11, 2024. Joyce Albrecht graduated from Haddonfield Memorial High School and Glassboro State College. She spent more than four decades as a history teacher in Haddon Heights and as a retiree was more active than ever while embracing a variety of volunteer and educational goals.
Upon retirement, Joyce pursued membership before becoming president of the Lions Club, which is noteworthy for its many charitable endeavors involving the blind and the community. Joyce was on the Board of Directors for the Bestwork Industries for the Blind.
Joyce’s community efforts over the years include her service on the Magnolia Board of Education and the Magnolia Planning Board as well as her service on the Professional Teaching Standard Board at the New Jersey Department of Education and on a task force at the NJ School Boards Association.
Joyce is also a member of the National Education Association (NEA) and the New Jersey NEA as well as a member and past president of Haddon Heights Education Association. She is a member of the Delta Kappa Gamma, a professional honor society of women educators. Top that off with her achievement as a New Jersey Master Gardener and a Barclay Farmstead Living History guide.
All are invited to Joyce’s visitation on Saturday, January 11th from 1-1:45AM at Kain-Murphy Funeral Services, 15 W. End Ave., Haddonfield, NJ; where her Funeral Service will follow at 2:00 PM. Interment private.
Patricia Doherty Swan
Age 91 of Haddon Heights, NJ
Patricia Doherty Swan of Haddon Heights, New Jersey, passed away on December 17, 2024, at the age of 91, surrounded by family and friends. Preceded in death by her parents Albert and Francine Doherty, brother Henry Doherty, and husband Richard Judson Swan, Sr. (or RJ as she called him), she is now back in their embraces.
She is survived by her children Richard Judson Swan, Jr. and his wife Eileen Marie Swan, Mark Doherty Swan, Robin Ann Shreeves, grandchildren Alexander Richard Swan, Corey Lee Swan and his wife Dinah Ngodoo Ikpah, Simon Peter Shreeves, Jesse Noble Shreeves, and great-grandson Ezra Ahemba-ve Swan. She loved them all, just slightly more than the many dogs and cats that became her family members throughout her life.
She married Richard in 1955 at Our Savior Lutheran Church in Haddonfield, NJ, remaining a member throughout her life, regularly attending, serving on the Altar Guild, and participating in Bible studies.
A graduate of Haddon Heights High School, Pat had a lifelong affection for her alma mater and classmates and cherished being on the Class of 1951 reunion committee. As recently as two years ago, she was still planning reunions for her classmates—one of the things that brought her great joy. Pat was also a go-to volunteer in Haddon Heights when her children were in school, particularly with the PTA and the high school Band Auxiliary.
Patricia’s viewing will be held at Our Savior Lutheran Church in Haddonfield, NJ, on December 19, 2024, at 10 am, followed by funeral services at 11 am. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Our Savior Lutheran Church (204 Wayne Ave., Haddonfield, NJ 08033) for its 100th anniversary celebration.
Anna Mae Sutterley
Age 87, of Collingswood; formerly of Haddonfield
(nee Cooper) on Dec. 15, 2024; wife of the late David James Sutterley; Beloved mother of Tricia (Eric) Sutterley; Loving grandmother of Evan, Raymond (Lou) and Bella and Dear sister of Oliver James Cooper (Gretchen), Lucile Cooper Bauer (Klaus) and Janet Cooper Teets (Ed).
Anna Mae, also known as Ann or Anna, was a longtime member of the Haddonfield Quaker Meeting, enjoyed camping, gardening, walking and socializing generally. She actively participated in square dancing, engaging for many years in the Busy B’s club, among others.
Anna Mae’s family invites friends and relatives for a Quaker Celebration of Life Memorial on Saturday January 18th at 1:00 at Haddonfield Friends Meeting. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Olney Friends School, 61830 Sandy Ridge Road, Barnesville, OH 43713www.olneyfriends.org/support-olney/
Brenda L. Giordano
Age: 86 Longtime resident of Moorestown, NJ
(nee Benoit) Passed away on December 13, 2024. Brenda was the devoted wife of the late Frank E. Giordano; beloved mother of Jeff (Sandy) Giordano, Linda (Allan) Melillo, Ron (Heidi) Giordano and Julie (the late Myron) Plotkin; cherished grandmother of 3 and great grandmother of 7.
Formerly of St. Johnsbury, VT, Burlington County, NJ and Englewood, FL, Brenda lived a rich and fulfilling life dedicated to her family, profession, and community service.
A loving mother who chose to be at home during her children’s early years, Brenda later pursued her professional and community passions. A graduate of Hahnemann University, she worked as a respiratory therapist primarily at Deborah Heart and Lung Hospital. She was a passionate volunteer, serving on the Board of Directors for S.T.R.I.D.E. Therapeutic Horseback Riding, and was an active member of the Central Jersey Trail Riders Association. She was also a long-time supporter of the Girl Scouts of America.
Relatives and friends are invited to greet Brenda’s family on Wednesday, December 18th from 12-12:45 pm at Christ the King Roman Catholic Church at 200 Windsor Ave. Haddonfield, New Jersey; where her mass of Christian burial will immediately follow at 1:00 pm. Interment will be at Locustwood Memorial Park in Cherry Hill, NJ. In lieu of flowers, charitable donations in Brenda’s name may be made to the Deborah Hospital Foundation.
