It has now been over a year since Denise M. Bigansky passed away suddenly on March 18, 2024. Denise was born in Levittown, Pennsylvania, where she resided for most of her life. She was the youngest of four siblings. Denise was predeceased by her father, Joseph E. Baginsky; mother, Eleanor T. Bigansky; and brothers, Steven J. Bigansky, and Jerry J. Bigansky. Karen Kunin of Langhorn, Pennsylvania, is her sole surviving sibling. Denise is entombed alongside her mother at Princeton Memorial Park in Robbinsville, New Jersey. Denise resided in Auburndale, Florida for over twenty years and was affiliated with Keller Williams Realty in Winter Haven as a realtor for the past ten years. Denise was remembered at two “Celebration of Life” services in Auburndale. I sincerely hope that all her dear friends were able to attend. She would have had the best time ever at both of them. Denise was a fun-loving, free-spirited woman who loved her friends and adored all the dogs of the world. It truly was “Time to Say Goodbye” to her family and many friends. “Be crazy. Be stupid. Be weird. Be whatever. Because life is too short To be anything but happy.”

Carolyn Ann Sherwin Thompson, age 85 died on October 15, 2024, at the Good Shepherd Hospice Auburndale, Florida. She was born May 30th, 1939, in Woodville, New Hampshire. Ann was the daughter of Herbert C. and Emma (Gibson) Sherwin, a pioneer family in Wells River, VT. Ann graduated from Wells River High School where she was active in sports and was head majorette in McLure’s Student Band, a well known band in New England. She graduated from the University of Vermont with a bachelor’s degree in nursing. She joined the Army Nurse Corp for two years as a Lieutenant and was stationed at Ft. Benning, GA. It was there that she met her soon to be husband, John Thompson. In 1964, Ann moved to Winter Haven, Florida following her marriage to John. They were married 59 years. She worked at Winter Haven Hospital as a registered nurse from 1965 to 2000, she worked as a supervisor and Director of Nursing for most of those years as well as Personnel Director. She was very active in the community of Winter Haven as well as professional organizations and served on nursing advisory boards at Polk Community College and Traviss Vocational Technical College for many years. Ann was active in the community and was a loyal member of Beta Sigma Phi sorority for several years. She was a member of the Nosegay Garden Club, Winter Haven, Order of Eastern Star Chapter #74, a member of Lake Region Yacht and Country Club for many years and supported many charities. She was a caring and kind person who loved people and was well known for love of making pickles. Crafts, and garage sales. Ann was of the Protestant Faith. Ann was predeceased by her parents, Herbert C. and Emma (Gibson) Sherwin, Her beloved husband, John Ross Thompson and a brother, Herbert. Ann is survived by her brother, Richard; sister-in-law, Evelyn Melton; brother-in-law, Clyde Thompson and his wife, Yvonne. Ann has several nieces and nephews. Ann was also blessed to have so many wonderful friends who loved her and cared for her.

In Loving Memory of Duke!

Oscar R Ramer, a decorated veteran and devoted family man, passed away peacefully at home on September 1, 2024, in Blairsville, GA, at the age of 79.  Born in Cuba, Oscar immigrated to the United States and made Winter Haven, FL, his home for 36 years before retiring to Blairsville, Georgia in 2009.  A proud Marine, Oscar served his country with distinction, completing four tours in Vietnam. His valor earned him numerous accolades, including a Silver Star with Combat "V," two Bronze Stars with Combat "V," and three Purple Hearts. His military career also included service with the U.S. Army Special Forces, where he completed rigorous training at some of the military's most elite schools, including the U.S. Army Jump School at Ft. Benning, HALO School at Ft. Bragg, and U.S. Navy Diving School in Norfolk. He also founded Security Dogs Inc. and was a former member of the U.S. Police K-9 Association, where he worked as a police K-9 instructor and Schutz-hund KNVP Ring Sport instructor.  After his military service, Oscar pursued a Master's in Education and became the Athletic Director and Academic Advisor at Polk State College, where he inspired and mentored countless students.  Oscar was a man of deep faith and a dedicated member of Grace Lutheran Church in Winter Haven, FL. His Christian values guided his life, and his commitment to his community was steadfast.  In addition to his military and academic careers, Oscar was a hunting enthusiast, avid reader, and amateur historian. He was passionate about sharing his knowledge and interests with others, always eager to learn and teach. Oscar married Sue Ketchum Moore, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Harold Faulkner of Auburndale, on December 16, 1989, at Life and Praise Temple. Their wedding was a beautiful ceremony filled with love, attended by close family and friends. Together, they built a life centered on love, faith, and service.  He is survived by his beloved wife of 35 years, Sue Ramer, who was by his side until the end. He is also survived by his children, Kelley Ramer Cavicchioni (and her husband Downey Cavicchioni), Nancy Golay (and her husband Randy), Terry Moore (and his wife Kim), Gary Moore (and his wife Patti), Scott Moore (and his wife Diep), and Byron Moore (and his wife Robin). Oscar was a proud grandfather to ten grandchildren and eleven great-grandchildren.  His memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew him, and his legacy of courage, dedication, and love will never be forgotten.  A Celebration of Life Service will be held on Friday October 18, 2024, 11:00 a.m., at Grace Lutheran Church, Winter Haven, FL. 327 Ave C SE. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in his name to Grace Lutheran Church or The Humane Society of Polk County.

Jeri Stewart Oldt of Winter Haven, who in her four-decade career as a mortgage banker helped thousands of people purchase their first home, and who in retirement found joy in gardening and grandchildren, travel and nature, died on August 31, 2024, her beloved family in attendance. At a New Years Eve party, on a blind date arranged by friends Gary and Betsy Schemmer, she met her husband-to-be, Thomas Roe Oldt, with whom she shared 20 years of unsolicited driving advice, love and contentment, travel and church, music and art, friends and family – as well as her happy-place getaway in the North Carolina mountains. Her connection with nature — Jeri was a barefoot girl at heart and loved camping and the beach — was central to her being and well-being. She planted herbs, flowers, shrubs, vegetables and trees, and transplanted to her sprawling garden oasis cuttings from like-minded gardeners, including specimens from fellow members of the Garden Club of Winter Haven. In a world of takers, Jeri was a giver. Vibrant and passionate, empathetic and kind, she cherished her friendships – many spanning decades – and nourished them assiduously. Jeri wholeheartedly subscribed to the poetic adage recorded on a plaque she placed amid the lush landscape she joyfully cultivated for two decades at her final, and favorite, Florida home: “The kiss of the sun for pardon, the song of the birds for mirth, one is nearer God’s heart in a garden than anywhere else on earth.”

Cynthia (Cindy) K. Stroupe 81 of Winter Haven, FL passed away peacefully at her home surrounded by her loving pets on May 8, 2024. Cindy was born on December 22, 1942, in Cleveland Ohio to Florence and Fredrick Stroupe. She graduated from Brush High School in Euclid Ohio, Class of 1961; where she excelled in dancing; including ballet while also choreographing the women's dance programs there. She graduated from Queens College in North Carolina studying education and history. The girls at Queens would not play her in table tennis so she played the men being the competitive person that she was. After employment at IBM in Cleveland, Ohio, she went on to a teaching career; then Guidance counseling at Winter Haven and Lake Region High schools; retiring in 2006. Her greatest loves were her pets: many cats and (2) West Highland Terriers: Hammie I and Hammie II, but much of her time was spent traveling with the Scottish Hamilton Clan in the US including Stone Mountain GA and visiting sites in Europe where she could touch history after reading about it. Cindy was a sports enthusiast; loving NC basketball and Florida teams; can't bash Tom Brady she would say. She is survived by her cousins: Holly Wimberley, Robin Hart in Texas, Greg Hart in Oklahoma and Douglas Barrett in Rome, NY.

Larry Piatt of Lake Wales, Fl passed away Saturday April 16th at Good Shepherd Hospice in Sebring, Fl. Larry Piatt of Lake Wales, Fl passed away Saturday April 16th at Good Shepherd Hospice in Sebring, Fl. He moved to Lake Wales in 1969. He was a retired mechanic at Duke Energy for 43 years. He was of the Baptist faith. He also was a member of the Lake Wales Masonic Lodge as well as a charter member of the Lake Wales Moose Lodge 2391. He loved his family, friends, his Harley, and playing with his grandson Jax. Larry survived by his loving wife Linda of 30 years. Daughter Kayla (Justin) Land and grandson Jaxton Land of Winter Haven Fl. Sister Karen (Ed) Dees. Niece Emily (Josh) Griffin. Grand niece Ireland, Grand nephews Jaxson and Brett of Plant City Fl. Bonus daughter Amanda (Josh) Christian and two bonus granddaughters Gianna and Rylann Rae of Winter Haven, Fl. And dogs Harley and Gus. Celebration of life will be held at First Baptist Church of Lake Wales May 4th at 11:00. Reception to follow at Lake Wales Moose Lodge. In lieu of Flowers, please donate to the Humane Society of Polk County or Good Shepherd Hospice of Polk County.

Vincent G. McCrave Jr. 86, of Davenport, FL passed away April 11, 2024, at Southlake Hospital. He passed peacefully surrounded by family. He was the husband of Marilyn K. (Loftus) McCrave and they have been married the past 64 years. Born in Providence, RI, he was the son of the late Vincent G. McCrave Sr. and the late Veronica (Kudzma) McCrave.  Mr. McCrave served in the United States Air Force Reserves for 23 years / Active Duty for 4 years. He was in Desert Storm January 13, 1991 – March 31, 1991. Vinny loved doing remodeling projects and handyman work. He was always available to lend a hand to a neighbor. His love was to teach his boys craftmanship. He loved his family and always enjoyed spending time with them. He was a dedicated and passionate New England Patriots and Boston Red Sox’s fan.  He was the Director of Housekeeping at Beth Israel Hospital in MA. and St. Joseph’s Hospital in RI. When he came to Florida, he was a long-time employee at Sea World. He went on to Bardell Real Estate and ultimately, he ended his career with Disney where he retired. In addition to his beloved wife, he leaves two sons Vincent G. McCrave III and his wife Lynn of Bellville, IL and Michael McCrave and his wife Bev of St. Petersburg, FL. And his daughter Michele Bessette of Pawtucket, RI.  8  Grandchildren Dan McCrave-Bessette, Shannon Schwoebel, Britt Whitney, Meghan McCrave, Mitchell McCrave, Matthew McCrave, Thomas Bessette and Hailey Roberson.  5 Great-grandchildren Hayden and Connor Bessette, Ellyott Shampine, Lewis and Claire Schwoebel.  His siblings are the late Robert McCrave of Johnston, RI and Veronica (Ronnie) Baker of Surprise, AZ as well as nieces and nephews. Relatives and friends are kindly invited to Vinny’s life celebration at 11:00 a.m. Mass on Monday, April 22, 2024 at St. Faustina Catholic Church 15551 N. Boggy Marsh Road Clermont Fl. 34714  Military Honors to follow. The family requests those who wish to express sympathy to consider making a donation to the Humane Society of Polk County in Vinny's name.

“Dipper” was a three legged rescue dog adopted by Jon Stewart of The Daily Show and his family 13 years ago. “Dipper” died this week and Jon did a very moving tribute to him on his show .

Andrea, wishing you a Happy 61st Birthday today (February 25) as you celebrate in your eternal life. Remembering you with your warm heart and the joy that you brought to so many cats you rescued, cared for and loved. All of us humans were lifted by your kindness. Lovingly remembering you, Gloria

HARRIS, Michael Joseph "Mike" 76, passed away on Tuesday, February 6, 2024. Mike was born in Tampa, FL on September 16, 1947 to Houston H. and Thelma K. Harris. He is survived by his sister, Suzanne H. Moraco; and members of the McCranie family including Geraldine McCranie and her two daughters, Susan (Troy) McCranie and Donna (Jeff) Bower, and their families. Mike attended Hillsborough High School and earned a degree in Marketing and Management from the University of South Florida. He served in the Navy during the Vietnam years and continued his service in the Naval Reserves for several years. While working on his degree at USF, he worked for Portland Cement in Tampa. After graduation, he worked for Burroughs Corporation and Delmonte Foods. Then, following in his dad's footsteps, he joined the United States Postal Service where he worked for almost 30 years. After retiring from the USPS, he decided he wanted to teach. So, he earned his teaching certificate and for several years he served as a substitute teacher in the Hillsborough County School District. Mike loved working with the kids and shared many funny and heartwarming stories about his time with them in the classroom. Mike developed a love of saltwater fishing at an early age, spending many hours with his dad on the waters of Boca Ciega Bay and the Gulf of Mexico during the family's summer vacations. Fishing was a lifelong passion. He also loved animals, especially his beloved dogs that he adopted over the years. In recent years, he developed an affinity for the pit bull breed. He is survived by his beloved pittie Zeus. The family will receive friends at Blount and Curry Funeral Home at Garden of Memories at 4207 East Lake Ave in Tampa on Saturday, February 17 at 1 pm. After visitation and a brief service, internment will immediately follow. Mike will be buried next to his parents in the Garden of Memories cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to honor Mike's love of animals. Donate in Mike's name to the Humane Society of Polk County at www.polknokill.org or to the no-kill animal rescue organization of your choice.

Judy "Maxine" Cook passed away on December 31, 2023. She is survived by her loving husband of 55 years, Clark, sons Roger and Christopher, three granddaughters, six great grandchildren, and four brothers, Paul, Ralph, Richard, and Alan. There will be a celebration of life ceremony at 1:00 PM Saturday, January 20 at the home of Patricia and Warren Lane. Their address is 18 Pine Forest Lane, Haines City, FL 33844. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the Humane Society of Polk County in her honor.

John Thompson, 84, of Winter Haven, Florida passed away on November 19,2023. Born in Winter Haven, Florida he was a lifelong resident. John graduated from Winter Haven High School and was a part of the Florida Southern College ROTC. John was a First Lieutenant in the United States Army and was stationed at Fort Benning, Georgia. Fort Benning was where John met the love of his life, First Lieutenant/nurse RN Carolyn Ann Sherwin.They married and enjoyed a loving 59 years together. John was a giver throughout his life. He was a member of several Board of Directors in Winter Haven, FL. John was the Commander of the Polk County Sheriff's SWAT Team for several years. John maintained his spit and polish professional appearance throughout his life. John appreciated the men and women in law enforcement who proudly serve and protect the citizens of their respective communities. John's motto was Service Before Self. John worked in several professions to include Citrus, The Polk County Sheriff's Office as a Sergeant in the Law Enforcement Division, and Corporate Security Director for the Winter Haven Hospital. John was preceded in death by his parents, James L. and Ruby L. Thompson; sister, Marian Sassard. John is survived by his wife of 59 years, Carolyn Ann; a sister, Evelyn Melton of Tallahassee, FL; brother, Clyde Thompson of Winter Haven, FL; several nieces and nephews. John was also survived by his cat, "Cat". A service will be held at Oak Ridge Funeral Care 2425 Havendale Blvd. Winter Haven, FL on December 1, 2023 with a gathering of friends and family from 10:00 am- 11:00am. In lieu of flowers, if you wish, donations may be made to the Polk County Sheriff Charities or the Humane Society of Polk County.

Gerry proudly served in the United States National Guard as a second lieutenant in the 116th Field Artillery Regiment before becoming Commander of the Haines City Armory. He completed his undergraduate at Florida Southern College, then went on to earn a Master's degree at Rollins College. On May 30th, 1964 he married the love of his life, Rebecca, and together they raised two children. Gerry went on to take over his father's business, King Reeve's Garage, formerly in Winter Haven, and was also a member of Masonic Lodge 186 for over 50 years. He was a lifelong animal lover, always finding time to feed and care for any stray cats he came across. Gerry is survived by his loving wife of 59 years, Rebecca Reeves, one son, Michael Scott Reeves (Jodi), one daughter, Susan Reeves Kovi (Mark), four grandchildren, Casey, Camille, Bryce, and Taylor, as well as a sister, Barbara Yeaple. Gerry was preceded in death by his parents, King Schuler Reeves and Willie Clyde Reeves. Donations in Gerry's memory may be made to the ASPCA or the Humane Society.

Great man who cared about nature.

In loving memory of Lola. Lola was the beloved pet of Matt and Lisa Tocci

Tamara Lynn Mckinney Peterson Age 48 passed away on March 11th at Winter Haven Hospital. She was born in Winter Haven on March 5, 1975 to James & Sandra McKinney. Tamara was raised in Winter Haven and she graduated from Winter Haven High in 1993. After graduation she got a Ford Mustang and fell in love with them. She was the Queen of the Cool Car Club! Tamara worked retail and eventually became part of the Management Team at Belk’s & Talbot’s. She began bowling with her sister Christy at Cypress Lanes where she was introduced to the love of her life Vernon Peterson. They were married for 4 wonderful years. Tamara loved all animals especially her yorkies. Tamara loved to travel & the Sun & Fun Air Shows. She is survived by Husband Vernon Peterson, her mother Sandra McKinney, her Sister Christy Mckinney and her beautiful Niece Liberty and many more loving family & friends.

Vernon Stoy Chastain, Jr. 61, of Winter Haven passed on August 14. Born in Union, SC on September 15, 1960, he moved to Winter Haven at an early age. Preceded in death by his parents, Vernon Sr. & Emma Chastain. Loving husband of 42 years to wife, Cindy. Devoted father of sons Eric & Ryan. Adoring Grandpa to his beloved Tori. A dedicated store manager, he worked in the grocery business for over 45 years. He treasured time with his family, playing restaurant with his granddaughter Tori, and going on his favorite Disney rides with his niece Kimmie. He took great pride in his sons who meant the world to him. We will never forget his cooking on holidays, love for 70s music, and humor that knew no bounds.

"Polk County Sheriff's Office" On Wednesday, August 3, 2022, the Lake Wales Police Department was dealt a terrible loss…the line of duty death of their beloved K-9 Max, partner to K-9 Officer Jared Joyner. K-9 Max was shot and killed by a violent man with a criminal history. To Officer Joyner, Chief Chris Velasquez, the men and women of the Lake Wales Police Department, and the residents of Lake Wales…the Polk County Sheriff’s Office shares your grief. K-9 Max died doing what he was trained to do; he led the charge to apprehend a dangerous suspect who was an active threat to the community…and in doing so, he saved the lives of his partner and others.

Bob was an amazing father and husband who will be missed by all, including those with fur who stole a piece of his heart

In loving memory of Peggy L. Douglas; a mother, a grandmother, a sister and a friend. She also loved cats, caring for many throughout her lifetime!

In Memory of Carl Ealy... dear friend, dance partner, traveling comrad, Packer fan, and confidant of MaryLee.

Best buddies and best dogs in the world.

Beloved Veterinarian & Friend, deeply missed.

In loving memory of Moose and Harry Hamlin

Mindy Adams, 47, of Winter Haven passed away Sunday, November 15, 2020 at her residence with her family present. Mindy worked as the Project Manager/ Estimator for Whitehead Construction and was instrumental in the building of the Humane Society of Polk County! Mindy had a special love for her family especially her daughters and grandsons, and of course the family dogs, Jake the bearded bird dog, Gus the baby boy, Daisy the special one and Sadie Girl. Mindy will be dearly missed!

In Loving Memory of Salvatore "Sal" A. Moraco

In loving memory of Ronald D. Ericson.

In memory of Ms. Joyce House Bolles, long-time resident of Lakeland and originally from New York. She was dedicated to rescuing cats and never met one that she didn't fall immediately in love with. We will miss her spunk, her independence and the family stories. With warm thoughts for Bill, Mark, and Ann - who are left behind to fill her energy! The Male cousins (Judy, Barbara and Chris)

In loving memory of Richard J. Holland, 71, of Winter Haven, formally of Beverly, born on September 21, 1948 in Beverly, Massachusetts to Timothy H. Holland and Mary G. (Gates) Holland.

In Loving Memory of Arnold J. “Doc” Spanjers, Jr., M.D.

In Loving Memory of our friend Mark Dornhecker

In loving memory of Walter and Ellie Moosbrugger

In Loving Memory of my Dad "Clarence Harold Whitfield"

In celebration of Palmer Gehring. Palmer served as a Eucharist Minister at St. Alban's Episcopal Church. He was also a member of The Winter Haven Pilots Assn.; QB's Lakeland Chapter; Past-Chair-man of the Winter Haven Airport Advisory Committee; charter member of Cardinal Flyers Online; Flying Octogenarians; Cape Fear Aero Assn.; Past President of Cape Fear Kiwanis Club; member of the North Carolina Glass Dealers Assn and supporter of the Humane Society of Polk County.

In loving memory of Carole Altvater

In honor of two people who shared a love for the Humane Society of Polk County. They were volunteers, contributors, adopters and Bettie was a Past President. Their work on behalf of the animals we serve still lives on.