Obituaries: September 24, 2014

MARTHA HOWARD LAKE, age 59, passed away suddenly on September 20, 2014. Born in Plainfield, N.J., she was a longtime resident of Vero Beach, where she and her husband Denny owned and operated The Red Onion restaurants. Martha’s large and growing family—her beloved husband Denny, her three wonderful children Megan Ferris (Jedd), Kevin Berry (Stephanie) and Craig Berry (Gabrielle), her stepdaughter Dawn Van Dorne and her seven grandchildren—was the center of her life. She is also survived by her mother Mary Howard, four sisters, 34 cousins and many nieces, nephews, aunts and uncles. It was clear to all who knew her that she was extremely proud of her family, and she loved each and every member with her whole heart.

Martha possessed an amazing ability to make everyone around her feel special. A kind and outspoken nature let her easily connect with all kinds of people, and her contagious laugh brought humor and joy to almost any situation. With creative talents, unwavering faith and a genuine passion in all her endeavors, she brought an energetic spirit to all her pursuits. Martha generously gave all of herself to others and she will forever be deeply missed and loved.

A celebration of Martha’s life will take place at Holy Cross Catholic Church on Friday, September 26 at 10 a.m. In lieu of flowers or donations, the family asks that you help a neighbor in need, give someone a warm, sincere hug or have a friendly conversation with a stranger. That was Martha’s way, each and every day. Strunk Funeral Home (9/24/14)

WILLIAM SCHULTZ, 99, of Vero Beach, Fl, passed away September 22, 2014, at VNA Hospice House, in Vero Beach, FL. William was a native of Buhl, Minnesota. Survivors include, a daughter, Elaine Groff of Vero Beach, FL, and a son, Kenneth W. Schultz of Sebastian, FL. Friends may sign the guest book at http://www.coxgiffordseawinds.com. (9/24/14)

JOAN M. SEMKOV, 82, of Fort Pierce, FL, passed away on Sept. 22, 2014, at Grace Rehabilitation Center of Vero Beach. Joan was a native of New York, New York. She was a member of St. Helen’s Catholic Church in Vero Beach, FL. Survivors include a daughter, Diane Semkow of Fort Pierce, FL, a son, Danny Semkow of Vero Beach, FL and a grandson, Jon Friedberg of Delray Beach, FL. A Memorial Mass will be held on Tuesday, Sept. 30, 2014 at 10:00am at St Helen’s Catholic Church in Vero Beach, FL. A guest book may be signed at http://www.coxgiffordseawinds.com. Arrangements are under the directions of Cox Gifford Seawinds Funeral Home. (9/24/14)

STANLEY STRAIGHT, 89, of Vero Beach, Fl, passed away September 22, 2014, at VNA Hospice in Vero Beach, FL. Stanley was a native of Mannington, West Virginia and moved to Vero Beach 20 years ago from West Palm Beach, FL. Stanley was a veteran of the United States Air Force serving during World War II. Stanley is survived by his wife of 65 years, Donna of Vero Beach, FL, son, Richard Straight of Bartow, FL, daughter, Johanna Straight of Winter Haven, FL and a brother, Edward Straight of Columbus, Ohio. Funeral Services will be held in Jewitt, Ohio under the directions of Blackburn Funeral Home , http://www.blackburnfuneralhomes.coM. A guest book may be signed at http://www.coxgifordseawinds.com. Th Cox Gifford Seawinds Funeral Home is in charge of local arrangements. (9/24/14)