Obituaries

Scott Michael Foss, 63 of Martins Creek, PA died peacefully at home after a courageous battle with cancer on Saturday, March 30, 2024. Born June 7, 1960 he was a son of the late Eugenia “Jean” (Mandarino) and Clarence “Chub” Foss. He was a 1978 graduate of Easton High School and received his associate degree from Northampton Community College. Scott was employed by Air Products and Chemical for 33 years before retiring. He was a member of St. Rocco’s Roman Catholic Church, a former member of St. Anthony’s Catholic Church and a past-president of the St. Anthony’s Youth Center. Scott was also a longtime volunteer and coach for 45 years for the Easton Cross Country team.

He is survived by his sister: Sally Murgia (husband Peter) of Forks Twp., PA; his brother: Steve Foss (wife Marcia) of Old Forge, PA; nieces and nephew: Marissa, Katrina, Giavanna, Matthew; and great nieces: Harper and Addison.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held 10 AM Friday (April 5, 2024) in St. Rocco’s Catholic Church, 6658 School St., Martins Creek, PA; with visitation from 6 to 7:30 PM Thursday in the Ashton Funeral Home, 1337 Northampton St., Easton, PA. Interment will be private in St. Anthony’s Cemetery, Easton.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Lustgarten Foundation at https://events.lustgarten.org/fundraiser/5395236 or St. Luke’s Hospice at www.slhn.org/supporthospicecare. Offer online condolences at www.AshtonFuneralHome.com.

Leon W. “Pete” Riker, Jr., 94 formerly of Palmer Twp., PA, a devoted husband and father, died peacefully Tuesday, March 26, 2024 in Chatham, NJ. Born September 20, 1929 in Brockport, NY and raised in Spencer, NY, he was a son of the late Aimee (Putnam) and Leon W. Riker, Sr. Pete earned a degree in Ceramic Engineering from Alfred University, where he also played several sports and met the love of his life, Jean (McGraw) Riker. After serving his country in the Army, he was employed by PPG Industries, Schott Optical Glass and Carborundum before retiring.

Pete was an avid volunteer throughout his life. As a member of College Hill Presbyterian Church in Easton, PA, he served as an elder, deacon and worked with youth. Pete was a member of the Kiwanis Club of Palmer Twp., served 25 years with Meals on Wheels, and worked with kids as a volunteer reading tutor and sports coach. Pete loved music, played a mean jazz piano, and played clarinet in local bands wherever he lived, including Easton Municipal Band. He enjoyed attending countless musical performances by his daughters and grandchildren as well. In retirement he played tennis late into his years and traveled extensively with Jean.

He is survived by his daughters: Rev. Ann Inoue (husband Takashi), Susan Fedors (husband Russell), Mary Kornick (husband Daniel); a son-in-law: Charles Fash; a brother: Neil Riker; and grandchildren: David Inoue, Timothy and Stephen Fash, Brian and Jeremy Fedors, Caitlin, Julian, Kellianne, Emily and Matthew Kornick. He was predeceased by his wife Jean, daughter Karen Fash, sister Patricia Branton and grandson Philip Inoue.

Services will be held Saturday, May 18, 2024 at 10 AM in College Hill Presbyterian Church, 501 Brodhead St., Easton, PA 18042 with a calling period from 9 to 10 AM in the church. Interment will be in the Historic Easton Cemetery. The Ashton Funeral Home, Easton is handling arrangements.

Memorial contributions may be made to College Hill Presbyterian Church, the Kiwanis Foundation of Palmer Twp., P.O. Box 3165, Palmer, PA 18043 or the American Red Cross. Offer online condolences at www.AshtonFuneralHome.com.

Dr. Leopold Seymour Kaplan (Lee), a beloved father, loving Poppy, adoring husband, sweet friend, endearing relative, and compassionate radiologist, passed away peacefully on March 24, 2024, at 94 years old. He leaves behind a legacy of pure goodness, warmth, love, and empathy that touched the lives of all who encountered him. He was a true gem to the world and his gentle, kind nature was immediately apparent to all who met and knew him.

Born on January 13, 1930, Lee was the youngest of 6 kids. He spent his childhood in Easton, Pennsylvania, sharing a bed with his brother Sidney, and spending his summers at Saylors Lake with his family. His family started Kaplan Awnings, a business in Easton, Pennsylvania that just celebrated 100 years.

Lee went to Ohio University and Hahnemann Medical School, and started the radiology group at John F. Kennedy Hospital (JFK) in the 1960’s. He was the Chief of Radiology for many years at JFK, where he saw unimaginable changes to the field as medicine rapidly progressed. Lee dedicated himself to the field of radiology where his intellect, keen eye, and empathetic nature made him a favorite among patients and colleagues alike.

Lee was an extremely gifted musician, playing the piano by ear from an early age. He continued playing throughout his life, until as recently as March 15, 2024, often performing short concerts for the people in his assisted living community. His music brought smiles and tears of joy to all who were lucky enough to listen.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Lee’s greatest joy came from his role as father to Wendy Lager, Todd Kaplan and Dana Kaplan Richter, and their spouses Steven Lager, Barbara Kaplan and Paul Richter. He was a pillar of strength and support for his children, always offering sage advice and unwavering love throughout their lifetimes. He called them every single day, and never missed a chance to say “ I love you.” He was a calm, loving, and really perfect father. As a grandfather, he delighted in spending time with his grandchildren, including frolicking in the waves for many years at Long Beach island, New Jersey, showering Stacey, Bari, Neal, Jodi, Evan, Ryan, Tyler and Kylie with love and affection. He helped create cherished memories that will last a lifetime. He was also a loving spouse to Marlene Kaplan, whose relationship offered both of them a second chance at love, and what a love affair they had!

Lee is survived by his loving sister, Isabel Schiff, who will turn 100 this November, and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. He was predeceased by his first wife of 38 years, Nedra Kaplan, from New Haven, Connecticut.

Lee will be deeply missed by his devoted family, friends, relatives, and all who had the privilege of knowing him.

With heavy hearts and profound sadness, we announce the passing of our cherished mother, Alicia Matos, a true angel on earth. She embodied love, devotion, and grace in every aspect of her life. Alicia Matos, 73, of Easton, PA, passed away on Friday, March 22, 2024, at home, surrounded by her loving family. Born on March 22, 1951, in Puerto Rico, she brought warmth and light into the lives of all who knew her.

She is survived by her husband of 48 years, Roberto Matos; 3 daughters: Daralice Matos with whom she resided, Windalice Matos of Wilson Borough, PA, Dalicia Matos in Florida; a brother: Ismael Martinez in Puerto Rico; a sister: Hilda Lopez in Florida; 6 granddaughters: Alicia Brucato, Lacie Smith-Matos, Victoria Radomski, Alexandria Radomski, Kalie Donelan, Ava Szatmary; 2 great-granddaughters: Giavanna and Elianna Brucato; a niece Hilda Doodnauth and two nephews Heriberto Montalvo and Ivan Sanchez . She was preceded in death by her parents Jose Antonio and Daria Martinez and brother, Manuel Martinez. Alicia was the epitome of selflessness, always putting the needs of others before her own. Whether as a daughter, wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, or aunt, she showered her family with unwavering affection and tenderness.

Her gentle spirit and patient demeanor touched the lives of all who had the privilege of knowing her. With elegance and wisdom, she navigated life’s challenges, leaving behind a legacy of kindness and compassion. Her wit and articulate nature brought joy to those around her, and her generosity knew no bounds. She gave freely of her time, her resources, and her heart, enriching the lives of countless souls. A faithful servant of God, she lived her life guided by her faith, finding solace and strength in her spiritual beliefs. Her studious nature and attention to detail reflected her commitment to excellence in all endeavors.

Through years of illness, she demonstrated unparalleled resilience and courage, fighting with determination to remain with her beloved family. In the end, she found peace at home, surrounded by the love that she so freely gave throughout her life. Though she may have left this earthly realm, her spirit will forever shine bright in our hearts. She leaves behind a legacy of love, kindness, and unwavering devotion that will continue to inspire us all. May her beautiful soul rest in eternal peace, knowing she was deeply loved and will be profoundly missed.

Visitation is Thursday (March 28) from 6 to 7:30 PM and Friday (March 29) from 10 to 11 AM with a service at 11 AM Friday, in the Ashton Funeral Home, 1337 Northampton St., Easton PA. Burial will follow at Forks Cemetery, Easton PA. Offer online condolences at www.AshtonFuneralHome.com.

Cassandra Kay Browne, 86 of Palmer Twp., PA, died Friday, March 22, 2024 at Lehigh Valley Hospital-Muhlenberg. Born March 13, 1938 in Trousdale, OK, she was a daughter of the late A. J. and Stella (Cook) Meinert. Kay moved to Arkansas with her family in 1953, graduating from Fayetteville High School. She received her bachelor’s degree in Home Economics from the University of Arkansas, where she played the clarinet in the marching band and the orchestra, a testament to her life-long love of music.

Kay was a beloved mother, wife, grandma, sister and friend to many. She was an excellent seamstress and for years made many of her own clothes, as well as clothing and creative costumes for her children when they were young. An avid gardener, Kay had an amazing green thumb, and was always surrounded with a houseful of beautiful plants. She also loved card games and was a dedicated member of several local bridge clubs.

Kay served as a manager of a retail department store in California before having her children. Upon moving to Easton in 1980, she was employed by Fishbone and Scheer law firm, and then as a real estate agent at Paul Ford Realty, before retiring.

For more than a decade, Kay volunteered for the League of Women Voters, coordinating their Voters’ Guide. She also provided free tax preparation through the AARP for many years.

She is survived by her husband of 65 years, Lloyd E. Browne; a daughter: Samantha Davis of Phoenixville, PA; a son: Steven Browne of Thurmont, MD; a brother: Phillip Meinert of Springdale, Arkansas; 3 grandchildren and a nephew.

A Memorial Service will be held April 6, 2024 at 11 AM in the Ashton Funeral Home, 1337 Northampton St., Easton with a calling period from 10 to 11 AM. Offer online condolences at www.AshtonFuneralHome.com.

Henry E. Altner, 82, of Wilson Borough, died Friday, March 15, 2024 in St. Luke’s Hospice House. Born August 9, 1941 in the Bronx, NY, he was the son of the late Henry and Johanna (Badke) Altner. His wife, Linda (Paff) Altner died in 2022. Henry served in the Army during the Vietnam War and was a millwright for Riegel Paper Mill. He retired in 2003.

Surviving are a daughter, Vicki Dittmar and her husband, Harry; a grandson, Harry, II; and a long time family friend, Eric Keller. The family would like to send a special thank you to the staff of St. Luke’s Hospice House.

A visitation will be held from 10:00 to 11:00 am on Wednesday, March 20, 2024 in the Ashton Funeral Home, 1337 Northampton St., Easton. Interment will be in Northampton Memorial Shrine. Memorial contributions may be made to Wounded Warrior Project, www.woundedwarriorproject.org. Offer online condolences at www.AshtonFuneralHome.com.

Jerry Thomas Strohl, 78 of Palmer Twp., PA died Friday, March 8, 2023 at Arden Court, Easton, PA. Born February 5, 1946 in Easton, he was the son of the late Jeannette McAvoy. He was a 1964 graduate of Easton High School and very active member of First United Church of Christ, Easton. Jerry was employed by Christmas City Printing for 16 years before retiring in 2015.

He is survived by his wife of 57 years, Sandra (Ventre) Strohl; 2 daughters: Shara Heller (husband Richard) of Palmer Twp., Shawna Shriver of Forks Twp.; 2 granddaughters: Rebecca and Lauren; and a great-granddaughter: Kaia. He was predeceased by his sisters: Shirley, Beverly, Natalie and Nada.

Services are private. The Ashton Funeral Home, 1337 Northampton St., Easton is handling arrangements. Offer online condolences at www.AshtonFuneralHome.com.