In Memory of Dario Pisano
Dario Pisano
Spouse: Keiko Pisano
Children: Manae, Amy, Sunny, Esther
DOB: August 27, 1955
Blessing Date: January 6, 1982
Ascension: January 10, 2025
Seonghwa Ceremony: Saturday, Jan 18 at 11 AM PST at 10007 NE 108th Ave. Vancouver, WA 98662
Dario Pisano was the 5th of 7 children born to Roman Catholic parents in Sardinia, Italy in 1955. He had an active and happy childhood in the Italian countryside, but by early adulthood became a self-proclaimed Communist Atheist, having experienced a harsh education and military training.
He was witnessed to in 1977 at the age of 22. Having felt there was something special about this group, he joined the Unification Movement after experiencing a unique spiritual incident that left him assured of God's existence.
After witnessing & fundraising throughout Italy & England, he volunteered to relocate to America to participate in 7+ years of MFT. He eventually became a state leader for Washington (Yakima). Dario loved his homeland and would return throughout the years to visit, but he ultimately considered Washington his home.
In 1982, Dario was picture-matched to Keiko Okada (of Japan) alongside 2,075 other couples at Madison Square Garden in New York City, USA.
Dario and Keiko raised their four daughters (Manae, Amy, Sunny, and Esther) in the Vancouver, Washington area, attending the Portland Family Church in West Linn, Oregon for 40+ years.
He worked for 24 years at Wacom Technology to support his family, and was an active volunteer in both faith & secular communities. He volunteered for many years at Camp Tongil and PNW Winter Workshops, where you would find him running errands, cooking alongside his wife, and encouraging kids in the lunch line to "Take what you want, but eat what you take!".
Dario was passionate about food and always said "Food is God's Love," and usually followed that line with a few dance steps. This passion would lead him to creating a food distribution chain that took local surplus groceries and gave them to families, shelters, and nonprofits. He always made sure that guests in his home had a full belly and leftovers by the time they'd leave.
Many may have known him directly, or as “the loud Italian dad” of Manae, Amy, Sunny, and Esther. He was many things – the best party host, the goofiest dancer, a great advice-giver. He was compassionate, encouraging, and faithful. But above all, Uncle Dario prided himself in being "A Son of God"; striving to appreciate his blessings, gifting those blessings to others, and being a consistent source of joy, laughter, and love.
Dario & Keiko achieved the level of "CheonBo Couple" in recent years, and loved to travel to new countries with their daughters, and eat at all-you-can-eat buffets. He and his wife fulfilled their desire to have all four daughters Blessed within the UC Faith (the first daughter in 2009, and the other three daughters in 2020).
Dario survived 3 heart attacks and 1 stroke, only to then be diagnosed with esophageal & stomach cancer in January 2023. He was a fighter until the very end.
Dario Pisano passed away on Friday, January 10th at 10:21 am, surrounded by his daughters, grandchildren, and wife holding him. He is survived by his wife of 42 years, Keiko, his five beautiful daughters, and his four cherished grandchildren.
He is greatly loved and dearly missed.
And surely doing incredible works for True Father now in God's Heavenly Kingdom.
In Memory of Margarita Johanna Olson
Margarita Johanna Olson
Spouse: Christopher Olson
Children: Maniyer, Heidi, Christopher, Channa, and Jenneke
DOB: April 11, 1949
Blessing Date: February 8, 1975
Ascension: December 22, 2024
Seonghwa Ceremony: Saturday, Dec 28, 2024 at 10:30 AM EST at the Indianapolis Family Church on 6202 Michigan Rd, Indianapolis, IN 46268
Zoom: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81527256273
Meeting ID: 815 2725 6273
Margarita van der Stok was born on April 11, 1949 in Jakarta, Indonesia. Her father worked for a Dutch shipping company in this former colony of the Netherlands. Margarita was 8 years of age when the van der Stok family moved back to Holland in 1957. In 1958, Margarita became seriously ill and almost died. She recovered but had to have one of her kidneys removed.
Margarita was introduced to our True Parents and the Unification Principle in late 1967 when she was 18 years old. Her older brother, Johan, joined the Unification Church in 1965 in Cleveland, Ohio, returned to the Netherlands and introduced his family to our True Parents. The entire van der Stok family of Johan’s parents and four siblings joined the Unification Church in 1968 and all were eventually Blessed in marriage.
From 1968 – 1972, Margarita studied nursing at a hospital in Amsterdam. She also decided to live in the Unification Church center and become more active in church missions in 1970. During this time, she decided to give up her nursing career and to offer full time devotions to her new found path of faith.
In March, 1973, Margarita joined a group of 20 other Dutch church members to become missionaries to the USA. Later that year in October, she joined the International One World Crusade (IOWC), where teams of 50 members would travel throughout America in support of Rev. Moon’s speaking tours.
In late 1974, Margarita was chosen to join a special IOWC team that would do church activities in Japan and Korea. During that time Margarita participated in the 1800 couples Blessing held in Seoul, Korea on February 8, 1975. She was Blessed in an international marriage with her husband, Christopher Olson (USA).
Margarita left Japan in 1976 and returned to Holland where she continued her devotional life in a variety of church missions until late 1979. In early 1980, Margarita joined her husband, Christopher, as an international missionary. Together they worked teaching the Divine Principle and promoting the activities of our True Parents in New Zealand, Chile, Colombia, and Mexico. During those missionary years Margarita gave birth to her five children (Maniyer, Heidi, Christopher, Channa, and Jenneke).
The Olson family returned from their international missions in 1993, settling in Christopher’s home town of Pacifica, California. Through the next three decades, mostly centered on the Bay Area Family Church, Margarita established an import/wholesale jewelry company as a foundation for our family life in California. Her main mission, however, was the raising of her young and growing family (ages 3-12). Church life continued to be central and Margarita connected to the many developments in God’s providence… going to Sunday service, attending True Parents’ public speeches, traveling to Korea several times, Liberating and Blessing ancestors, supporting WFWP, etc.
In July 2021, Margarita and her husband moved to Carmel, Indiana, to live as a three generational family, including 4 of her 8 grandchildren. Our Indianapolis Family Church has been a source of great joy and inspiration for Margarita during our three and a half years in Indiana. The love that she has given and received from our church community in Indiana will always remain with her.
In Memory of Diane Tangreti
Diane Tangreti
Spouse: Antonio Tangreti
Children: Sherrond Anthony Person, Cristina Esther Pearl
DOB: October 14, 1953
Blessing Date: October 14, 1982
Ascension: November 25, 2024
Seonghwa Ceremony: December 5 at 8:00 PM at 2301 Findlay Ave. Monterey Park, CA 91754
GoFundme: https://www.gofundme.com/f/support-diane-tangretis-celebration-of-life
Diane was born in Toledo, Ohio on October 14, 1953 to Doris (née Radcliff) Person and Jesse Person. The second-born of nine children, she grew up surrounded by the love of her family. She was particularly close to her grandmother, Pearl, who often looked after not only her and her siblings, but many of the children in the neighborhood as well. Pearl’s unconditional love instilled in Diane a deep desire to care for the less fortunate, especially children.
In 1974, after attending Bowling Green State University, Diane was blessed by the birth of her son, Sherrond “Anthony” Person. Not long after that, she made the life-changing decision to move to California.
It was there, in 1976, not far from Hollywood Boulevard, that she found the Unification Church. Her encounter with a church member (who had committed to witnessing only to women) felt more like destiny than mere chance. Knowing that her beloved Grandma Pearl had been praying for her to find her own path to God, Diane felt deeply that the church was that divine path. After attending a local lecture, she decided to join.
Before too long, she became a key player in the church’s Southern California community. Her resourcefulness, hard work, and irresistible charm and optimism left a lasting impression on everyone who met her. She became known far and wide for her countless contributions to the church: cooking and serving food at Camp Mozumdar, witnessing and fundraising in Santa Barbara, selling flowers in Redondo Beach, coordinating deliveries and donations for Project Volunteer, and just about anything else she could do to be of service. She always had love and energy to give to the people and causes she cared about.
In October 1982, Diane attended the Blessing Ceremony in Korea, where she was matched to Antonio Tangreti, from Buenos Aires, Argentina. The following year, Diane and her son Anthony relocated to Buenos Aires to live with Antonio in a church center. After living there for about a year, the young family of three moved to Los Angeles in February 1984.
Diane and Antonio settled into their new life together and before long, Diane felt another calling that she needed to answer: the calling to help disadvantaged children. She made the decision to become a licensed foster parent and, in 1989, she took in her first foster child, Eddie. It didn’t take long for the Tangreti household to become full of children in need. Though they loved their foster children and Anthony, Diane and Antonio still desired to have a child of their own. After being challenged by fertility issues for several years, their wish was granted in the form of their adopted daughter, Cristina, in 1993.
As a full-time foster parent, Diane specialized in helping children with behavioral and medical issues. For many years she served as a counselor and parent advocate for the East Los Angeles Regional Center. She also served on the Board of Directors for Pacific Clinics in Pasadena, California. She was a passionate advocate for foster care, dedicated to offering support and resources to families who needed help caring for their children. Her work left a lasting impact on the children she raised and on the local foster care community as a whole.
Diane was diagnosed with cancer in December 2023. Despite the diagnosis, she carried on with her trademark joy and optimism, choosing to make the most of whatever time she had left. She dealt with her illness privately and continued to prioritize making beautiful memories with her loved ones. She danced, she traveled, and she danced some more, until she couldn’t anymore. On November 25, 2024, Diane passed away peacefully with her friends and family by her side.
Diane will always be remembered as a giver. Whether she was giving literal gifts (which she loved to do) or giving her love or her time, she never asked for anything in return. Her heart was one of true selflessness and kindness. Anyone who knew her well could share a story about how she surprised them with her thoughtfulness. While she will be deeply missed, the joy she spread and the love she gave to so many will leave a lasting legacy that transcends her time on Earth.
A private Seonghwa event was held for Diane on December 5th. Diane’s wish for the end of her life is for her loved ones to come together to celebrate with Motown music and dancing the incredible life she has lived. A celebration of Diane’s life will be held in January, details to be announced. Those wishing to offer a gift in her memory and assist in deferring expenses can contribute to her GoFundMe at: https://www.gofundme.com/f/support-diane-tangretis-celebration-of-life
In Memory of Yukiko Takaki Townsend
Yukiko Takaki Townsend
Spouse: Theodore Townsend
Children: Aaron, Young-Hi, James
DOB: October 2, 1954
Blessing Date: January 12, 1989
Ascension: November 23, 2024
Seonghwa Ceremony: Monday, December 16 at 7:00 PM at Bay Area Family Church 2305 Washington Avenue, San Leandro CA 94577
Won Jeon : Tuesday, December 17 at 10:30 am at Lone Tree Cemetery 24591 Fairview Avenue, Hayward, CA 94541
Yukiko Takaki Townsend was born on October 2, 1954, the seventh of eight children. She grew up on a beautiful small island in the Hiroshima Prefecture that could only be reached by boat. She went to college in the city nearby and studied Japanese history, culture, and she wanted to be a librarian. She was granted a license to be a middle school teacher and a certification to be a librarian. After graduation, she worked as a swimming school instructor for four and a half years and enjoyed teaching children to swim.
On October 1, 1981 she joined the Unification Church and became a full time member. Soon after she started selling ivory stamps and ginseng extract. Later she sold kimonos, jewelry and paintings at exhibitions all around Japan. On October 15, 1986 she moved to Detroit to work as a waitress at a sushi restaurant. On March 27, 1987 she was matched to Theodore Townsend by Rev. Moon in New York City. After that she spent time at church centers in Idaho and Nevada, and enjoyed seeing the beautiful scenery in the wild west. On January 12, 1989, she and Theo were blessed in marriage by Rev. and Mrs. Moon in Korea. They eventually moved in to an apartment in Changwon at the southern tip in Korea.
In 1990, she and Theo moved to the San Francisco Bay Area where they had three children: Aaron (born in 1991), Young-Hi (born in 1993) and James (born in 1996). They were very happy to have three children and had many joyful experiences together. The family travelled on many adventures visiting Yosemite, the Grand Canyon, Yellowstone, Arizona, and many locations up and down the California coast. A highlight of her travels was touring Europe with her daughter Young-Hi. In 1991, she learned about Korean cooking and how to prepare the offering food for church Holy Day celebrations. In 1992 she began performing the Japanese tea ceremony for events sponsored by the Women's Federation for Peace. She taught preschool Sunday School for sixteen years, and volunteered as the treasurer for the church Boy Scout troop.
In October of 2022 she was diagnosed with cancer of the colon. After surgery she recovered for a time, but the cancer returned so she underwent a full chemotherapy treatment. In July of this year she went into septic shock and spent several weeks recovering before returning home. She passed quietly on November 23 at 9:15 AM surrounded by her family.
Yukiko was devoted to her husband, children, extended family and church. She was quick to jump into conversation and loved nothing more that to chat with friends over a cup of tea. She will be missed until we meet again.
Flowers: Please contact Monika Kellett (510) 853 1703
Cards to the Family: 1542 Halsey Avenue, San Leandro, CA 94578
In Memory of Carlos Alberto Lopes Ferreira
Carlos Alberto Lopes Ferreira
Spouse: Suzanne Claveau Ferreira
Children: Young Ho, Alexandre, Carla, Bernard
DOB: March 24, 1960
Blessing Date: January 12, 1989
Ascension: September 23, 2024
Seonghwa Ceremony: September 30, 2pm (EST)
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Carlos Alberto Lopes Ferreira, a committed husband, father and grandfather-to-be. He passed away peacefully at the age of 64 years old. Carlos was born and raised in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, where he shared his indigenous mother's deep faith in God. At just 17 years old, he joined the Unification Church, dedicating the next 21 years of his life to fundraising, witnessing, missionary work, and building a loving family. His journey took him to the northern regions of Brazil, Suriname, the USA, and Russia, where he served as a leader, translator for a Russian general and an incredible teacher. He guided countless church members toward a life rooted in faith, peace, love, and family.
Carlos was a devoted family man who made sure to be present for our mother, Suzanne, and his four children. After six years in Russia, the family moved to Canada, seeking to continue their mission of faith. They intentionally bought a large house, welcoming families in need by providing them with rooms to stay in. Carlos and Suzanne opened their hearts and home to over 25 youth in foster care, demonstrating their unwavering generosity.
Even while bravely battling cancer, Carlos continued to care for three wonderful foster youths, embodying a spirit of kindness and support. He peacefully passed away on Monday, September 23rd, 2024, surrounded by his loving family.
Carlos was a true feminist at heart, redefining traditional roles in remarkable ways. He supported Suzanne by staying home to cook, clean, and manage the household, while also running the family business. This dedication ensured he was always present for his children after school. Calm and observant, he listened deeply to those around him, offering reassurance, advice, and a non-judgmental spirit. Carlos leaves behind a legacy of love, faith, and community service, and he will be profoundly missed.
Mailing address of ascended’s family: 188, 4th Boulevard, Terrasse-Vaudreuil, J7V 5N1, QC, Canada
In Memory of Joseph Riley Kinney
Joseph Riley Kinney
Spouse: Kumiko Kinney
Children: Jacqueline Ito,
Jane Kumiko, Judith Aeri, Joseph Jacob
DOB: December 16, 1950
Blessing Date: July 1, 1982
Ascension: December 8, 2024
Seonghwa Ceremony: December 15, 4pm (CST) at Woodfin Funeral Chapel, 203 N Lowry St, Smyrna, TN 37167
Joseph Riley Kinney was born on December 16, 1950, in La Vergne, TN, a small town south of Nashville. Joe was adopted by Joseph and Catherine Kinney and grew up in Memphis, TN. Joe was a deeply spiritual individual and experienced many profound instances with God while attending parochial school as a practicing Catholic. In November of 1972, while attending Christian Brothers College, he met Diane Fink Drucker who introduced him to the Unification Church. Joe, as the first Unification Church member from Tennessee, had found his true calling. The movement first brought Joe to New York where he joined the International One World Crusade at Belvedere and East Garden Estates. Joe was able to foster a close relationship with Rev. Moon's family during these early years. He then traveled throughout Asia selling machine tools for the Tongil Group, eventually learning to speak Korean. Joe finally returned to the United States in 1979.
On July 1, 1982, Joe and Kumiko Ito received the Blessing of marriage through a special ceremony officiated by Rev. Moon at Madison Square Garden in New York City. They welcomed their first child, Jacqueline Ito in 1984 followed by Jane Kumiko in 1986, Judith Aeri in 1992, and Joseph Jacob in 1994. Joseph also experienced the joy of grandparenthood through his two granddaughters, Charlotte Aiko and Marlene Ren.
Joe, who specialized in systems and refrigeration engineering, built his career while working with True World Foods and FarmLand Dairies. He eventually retired from the New Yorker Hotel after 21 years of service. At the New Yorker, Joe was able to catalogue and exhibit the significance of the establishment – an architecturally art-deco building in the heart of Manhattan. Visitors today can find an exhibit curated by Joe that features 1920's memorabilia and the history of Nikola Tesla's last days as a resident of the hotel.
In 2001, Joe was able to meet his birth mother, Marion Dunn, who was proud of her Cherokee heritage and had published a children's book, Tenase Brave, a charming informational text on the culture and traditions of the Tennessee Cherokee Nation. Although his biological father had passed before they could meet, Joe was able to connect with several siblings and his extended family. Discovering his heritage and meeting his biological relatives was one of his most important and cherished experiences.
After his retirement in 2017, Joe and Kumiko travelled across the United States, towing an Airstream. After several years of travel, they settled in La Vergne, TN, Joe’s birthplace, to be closer to his relatives. It was around this time that Joe began intensive treatment for Parkinson’s disease. Joe was able to be fitted with a Deep Brain Stimulator which greatly helped his symptoms. Unfortunately, after the DBS placement, Joe was diagnosed with Non-Hodgkins Lymphoma. Joe battled his diagnosis, undergoing 3 rounds of treatment before succumbing to the disease on December 8th, 2024. Joe passed away surrounded by the love and support of many old friends and family members at Alive Hospice Residences in Nashville, TN.
In Memory of Zachary Yong Rogers
Zachary Yong Rogers
Spouse: Yuka Sasada Rogers
DOB: May 20, 1986
Blessing Date: February 17, 2013
Ascension: November 4, 2024
Seonghwa Ceremony: December 7, 2024 11:00 AM ET at 3600 New York Ave. NE Washington, DC 20002
Livestream: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/87142510324?pwd=9DOT7ETkPm8UJIaKBeBz9GFJSsWueW.1
Donations: https://gofund.me/27fa4284
Zachary Yong Rogers, a beloved son, brother, husband, and cherished friend to so many, passed away on November 4, 2024. Born in Seattle, Washington and raised in Kodiak, Alaska, Zachary embodied resilience, determination, and an unwavering zest for life.
As a youth, Zachary grew up spending time around US Coast Guard ships and helicopters on the Kodiak Coast Guard base. At age 10, he also went to Uruguay, South America and Swaziland, Africa, on missions with his family.
At the age of 17, Zachary faced his first great battle when he was diagnosed with Hodgkin's Lymphoma. With courage and strength, he overcame the disease, emerging as an inspiring example of perseverance. He pursued his dreams with passion, attending the University of Michigan, where he earned a bachelor's degree in Naval Architecture in 2015. Along the way, he married the love of his life, Yuka Sasada, in 2013, beginning a beautiful journey together.
Zachary’s childhood dream was to join the U.S. Coast Guard, a goal he steadfastly pursued. After starting his career in Seattle, his journey took him and Yuka to Maryland in 2020, where his dream became a reality. His dedication and commitment were hallmarks of his character.
In the years that followed, Zachary faced a second, unexpected challenge when he was diagnosed with leukemia. Throughout countless doctor appointments and hospital stays, he never wavered in his positivity. He brought light to those around him, sharing his humor, kindness, and love for good food, even in the toughest times.
Zachary was deeply loved by his family and close friends, who stood by him with unwavering support. His strength, optimism, and love for life touched everyone he met. Though his passing leaves an immense void, his legacy of courage, love, and joy will forever be remembered.
Now free from illness, Zachary leaves behind a legacy of love and inspiration. He will be deeply missed but never forgotten.
If you would like to share your special photos or stories with him, please click below to post on his Kudoboard.
In Memory of Kathryn Mary Chapman
Kathryn Mary Chapman
Spouse: Peter Kahu Shaw
Children: Stephen, Jacob, Renee, and Rory
DOB: November 26, 1951
Ascension: November 11, 2024
Seonghwa Ceremony: Saturday, December 7 at 11:00 AM at Bay Area Family Church
Flowers for the Seonghwa
Bay Area Family Church with delivery by Friday, December 6, 2024
(510) 483 4712
Kathryn Mary Chapman was born on the 26th of November in 1951 at Scripps Memorial Hospital to Charles Edward Chapman, an engineer who helped develop rocket engines, and Jean Mae Perry, an homemaker who later became a painter and sculptor. She grew up in the Point Loma neighborhood of San Diego alongside her three older siblings Tom, Bill, and Teri and her younger brother Ed.
Along the beaches and cliffs of San Diego she first fell in love with the ocean. Always athletic and competitive, she would have loved to taken up surfing but girls were discouraged from participating. Later she would teach her children to love surfing and the ocean as she did. She also loved playing guitar. A rebellious spirit at heart, at a young age she ventured off on her own. She drove through Mexico to work on a documentary. Later she moved to the mountains of Idaho, camping in the hills, took up skiing, and found a deep connection to the natural flow of the mountains.
Cathy joined the Unification Church in 1976, becoming very active as part of the LA branch of the church. She was Blessed to Peter Kahu Shaw, a Kiwi, at Madison Square Garden on July 1st of 1982. She spent time in Boseman, Montana working for the church before returning to California. She and Peter settled down in Berkeley, then the Oakland Hills, and later Hayward to raise four children, Stephen, Jacob, Renee, and Rory. Homeschooling each of her kids with the support of other parents from the church, she passed on her intellectual curiosity and passions to her children. Renee continues to excel in sports, snowboarding with her husband Teo every chance she gets and captaining an ultimate frisbee team in Pasadena. Jacob followed into the family's engineering tradition, working as a civil engineer after earning a master’s degree at UC Berkeley where he met his wife Lara. Rory inherited Cathy’s wanderlust, traveling the world in pursuit of surf and earning a psychology degree in New Zealand. Cathy was able to attend her eldest son’s wedding to Maribel in July of this year, the two having met as part of a study abroad trip in New Zealand nearly a decade prior.
In 2015, Cathy and Peter moved to New Zealand, living on both coasts of the North Island before settling amongst the forests and mountains of Peter's Māori ancestors. Cathy became a part of the community joining a local tai chi group, taking te reo classes, and participating in traditions of the local Māori. After five years the two returned to California, settling in the small town of Guerneville on the banks of the Russian River. They spent many days exploring the redwood forests and rugged coast of Northern California. They welcomed two grandchildren, Arlo and Kaia by way of Lara and Jacob. Always inquisitive, Cathy remained active in her local faith group and wrote a treatise to deepen her understanding of God.
This August, she was diagnosed with cancer. During her final months, she was dutifully attended to by her husband Peter and their son Rory, who had returned from Australia to care for her, with frequent visits and support from the rest of her family. She passed away on Remembrance Day 11/11/2024 at 3:30 pm, surrounded by her family. She loved her family, loved being in nature, and had a loving curiosity about the nature of God.
Please send all cards to Peter Shaw at 16351 First Street #24, Guerneville, CA 95446.
In Memory of Victor Moore
Victor Moore
Spouse: Janis Moore
Children: Victor, Timothy
DOB: August 5, 1958
Ascension: October 22, 2024
Celebration of Life: Late February 2025
Plant a tree: To plant a beautiful memorial tree in memory of Victor, please visit this Tree Store.
It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Victor Moore, a cherished husband, father, and friend, who left this world on October 22, 2024, at the age of 66. Born on August 5, 1958, in Baltimore, Maryland, Victor lived a vibrant life in Mahopac, New York, where he became a beloved member of his community.
Victor was the proud owner of Showset Productions, where his passion for music came to life. Music was not just a hobby for Victor; it was a lifelong passion that he shared with those around him. In addition to his love for music, he was an avid tennis and golf enjoyer, often seen on the court and the driving range, relishing the sport and the friendships it fostered.
He is survived by his devoted wife, Janis Moore, whose love and support were a cornerstone of his life. Victor was a loving father to his two sons, Victor J. Moore and Timothy G. Moore, who carry his legacy of kindness and creativity forward. He was the beloved son of Rufus Moore and Vivian (Thornton) Moore, and he leaves behind a loving family, including siblings Ruby, Marcella, Henry, Dian, Larry, Maurice, Anita, Tonya, and Rufus, as well as his late sister, Devata.
Victor’s warm spirit, infectious laughter, and unwavering dedication to his family and passions will be deeply missed. A celebration of his life will be planned in his hometown of Baltimore, Maryland for late February 2025, where friends and family can gather to honor and remember the remarkable man he was.
Rest in peace, Victor. Your melody will forever echo in our hearts.
In Memory of Carl Wyatt Swearson
Carl Wyatt Swearson
Spouse: Georgianna Swearson
Children: Ben, Helen, Joseph, Daniel, Samuel
DOB: July 28, 1951
Blessing: July 1, 1982
Ascension: November 16, 2024
Seonghwa Ceremony: November 21, 2024 1:00 PM at 2720 Muscatine Ave. Iowa City IA 52240
Viewing at 11 AM
Livestream: www.gayandciha.com
Donations: www.GiveSendGo.com/carlswearson
Carl Swearson, born on July 28, 1951, in Rugby, North Dakota, to William and Agnes Swearson, began life with a frail body but a resilient spirit. At birth, he was not expected to live past the age of two, suffering from a weak heart and other ailments. Yet, through his mother’s unwavering care and faith, Carl defied the odds and grew stronger—a testament to the enduring power of love and the triumph of the spirit over adversity.
Raised on a family farm as one of thirteen children, Carl’s early years were shaped by the rhythms of rural life, fostering humility, resilience, and a quiet strength. While earning a degree in Agriculture with a minor in Military Science at North Dakota State University, Carl appeared to be walking a path of earthly responsibility. Yet within him stirred a deeper yearning—a call to serve a purpose far greater than himself.
In 1973, this inner calling found clarity during Carl’s time at the Officer Basic Course at Ft. Sill, OK. There, he encountered the teachings of the Unification Church, which illuminated the divine truths that had long guided his heart. Moved by this awakening, Carl joined the church the following year and served as a captain for the Mobile Fundraiser Team in the Midwest. This was not merely a career shift but a profound realization of his spiritual mission—a commitment to embody divine love and wisdom.
In 1978, Carl enrolled at the Unification Theological Seminary, where he prepared for ministry and leadership. After completing his studies in 1981, he became South Carolina’s State Leader for the Unification Church, dedicating himself to counseling, pastoring, and building communities. His life took a joyful turn in 1982 when he married Georgianna Lea Dunlap at Madison Square Garden in a ceremony officiated by Reverend Sun Myung Moon. Together, they moved to Missouri, where Carl served as State Church Leader, continuing his mission to uplift and inspire those around him.
For decades, Carl’s ministry shone brightly, touching lives across Missouri, Minnesota, and beyond. From guiding youth in the Pure Love Alliance to fostering unity through the American Freedom Coalition, his work reflected an unwavering commitment to service. In 2001, Carl co-chaired the St. Louis “We Will Stand in Oneness” tour, collaborating with his dear friend Leonard Wrice to welcome Reverend and Mrs. Moon in blessing the city. His dedication was recognized in 2005 when he received an Honorary Doctorate in Ministry from St. Michael’s Institute.
From 2006 to 2013, Carl served as District Director for the Midwest, bridging divides across a dispersed region and fostering greater unity. Throughout his ministry, his efforts were not for personal gain but for the glory of the eternal, a reflection of his deep resolve to live as an instrument of divine will.
In his later years, Carl embraced the quiet joys of family life in Iowa, remaining steadfast in his spiritual mission while cherishing time with those he loved most. On November 16, 2024, Reverend Carl Swearson departed this earthly life, his spirit ascending to the eternal realm where his works endure as treasures in the Kingdom of Heaven.
From his frail beginnings to his enduring legacy, Carl’s life was a testimony to the strength of faith and the unyielding pursuit of divine purpose. His memory inspires us to see that the greatest strength often arises from the humblest of origins.
In Memory of Burton Ellsworth Leavitt
Burton Ellsworth Leavitt
Spouse: Michiyo Fujita Leavitt
Children: Mari Grace
DOB: May 25, 1950
Blessing: July 1, 1982
Ascension: September 25, 2024
Seonghwa Ceremony: October 4, 2024 11:00 AM at 3600 New York Ave NE Washington, DC 20002
Livestream on Zoom: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/618147675
Use Passcode: 2027
Burton Ellsworth Leavitt was born on May 25, 1950, in Newport, New Hampshire, as the oldest of five children (brothers Timothy and Gordon and sisters Louise and Diana) to Herbert Gordon Leavitt and Alice Mae Roberts (O’Brien).
From an early age, Burt took on much of the responsibility for raising his siblings, especially after his parents divorced. Burt’s mother was a nurse and often worked double shifts to support the family. Although he wasn’t free to socialize given his family responsibilities, Burt did well academically, in great part because his mother raised him and his brother Tim to enjoy various word games. a member of the National Honor Society in high school, Burt received awards in math, English, French, music, and history; was voted most likely to succeed; and graduated third in his class.
Inspired by his parents’ love for music, painting, and knitting, Burt picked up these interests as well. He began playing piano as a child and was able to take lessons starting in high school. He taught himself to crochet and also developed a talent for cutting hair by watching his father cut his siblings’ hair. Despite being shy, Burt took part in various plays throughout his school years, including the French play La Farce du cuvier, and to sing in and play the piano for choruses.
In 1968, he began studying at the University of New Hampshire, intending to major in math and French but turning to piano instead (thanks to the suggestion of a football player in his dorm). He graduated in 1973 with a BA in piano performance.
During his last year of college, Burt felt compelled to find out what God thought about his life, so he began searching in churches and Christian groups on campus. Nothing moved his heart until he saw the movie Brother Sun, Sister Moon, about the life of Saint Francis, who gave away everything he owned to serve God. Inspired by this example of total surrender to God, Burt decided to give away everything he owned except one shirt and a pair of pants. His friends and piano teacher thought he was crazy, but the next week he met the Unification Church.
The Divine Principle was captivating in its clarity of understanding about the purpose of life, the Fall, and God’s work in history, culminating with the Second Coming of the messiah. He told God he would dedicate his life to helping the Messiah, giving up everything, including the piano, which had meant everything to him. On the very day that he moved into the church center, the church leader all of a sudden said, “Let’s go buy a piano for the center.” He realized that God gave him back his first love because he had given it up in faith.
Daily church life was a challenge for Burt because of his shyness. As time passed, though, it became clear that his experiences were helping him develop a broader character and heart by learning to love all types of people.
In February 1974, he met Father Moon and his wife, known as the True Parents, for the first time, during a public speaking tour. Although he had been in the church only six months, he was asked to be a security guard at the house where they would stay. All he could think was, “How can I protect them when I’m so small and unprepared?”
Later that year he was sent to the Belvedere International leadership training Center in Tarrytown, New York. After a year learning to lecture the Principle with 300 brothers and sisters, he was dropped off alone on his birthday to begin pioneer witnessing in Keene, New Hampshire, beginning with a three-day fast, no money, and no place to stay. As the driver waved good-bye, Burt began lecturing the Principle in the rotary at the center of town. That night he spent on a picnic table next to the town reservoir. It was cold and damp, and he couldn’t sleep for fear there were bears in the surrounding woods. The next day he found a room at a Catholic Church.
In 1977, Burt began studies at the Unification Theological Seminary, where he played piano for daily morning services and the choir and was also the resident barber. In 1979, he graduated with a master’s degree in religious education.
Though sheltered during his early life, he was able to travel widely during his church life, doing spiritual work in nine states across the country as well as in England, Russia, Taiwan, Korea, and Japan.
Whereas in the secular world Burt might have had trouble finding a rewarding career with a degree in piano performance, he discovered that God sees possibilities that others may not. At a state leaders meeting in 1981, when Father Moon sought volunteers to staff the Washington Times that he was creating, Burt felt called to help and was chosen. Too anxious to get started during the orientation period, he was made a copy editor at the News World/New York City Tribune instead and served there for 4.5 years. Later he edited for The World & I for 18 years and for the American Psychological Association for 11 years. He also helped to edit God’s Will and the World, the Chambumo Gyeong, As a Peace-Loving Global Citizen, and several of Father Moon’s public speeches.
With a background in piano, he enjoyed accompanying church services for 21 years in the Washington, DC area. Also, while working at The World & I, for three years he played at banquets for the 30,000 Korean guests who came to tour Father Moon’s companies.
Burt was matched with Michiyo Fujita on May 12, 1979, and was blessed among the 2,075 Couples at Madison Square Garden on July 1, 1982. At the time of their matching, he discovered he couldn’t have children, a devastating blow. For seven years he worked on his health in faith that somehow God would open a way to healing. Finally, after an intense course for seven months in Japan, he had a dramatic spiritual and physical healing in Korea in 1986 and they were blessed with a beautiful daughter, Mari Grace, born on Easter Sunday in 1987.
Although Burt felt hampered by health issues throughout his life, his two main passions for serving God and True Parents were through music and teaching the Divine Principle, both for guests and for second generation children.
He is survived by his wife Michiyo Fujita Leavitt; daughter Mari Grace; grandchild; brother Timothy Leavitt; and sisters Louise Leavitt and Diana Goodson. Both his parents and another brother, Gordon Leavitt, passed away previously.
In Memory of Bill Thompson
William Henry Thompson
Spouse: Yoko Thompson
Children: Young Nam, Kayoung, Kasun (Eric), and Yeji
DOB: November 18, 1950
Blessing: July 1, 1982
Ascension: July 26, 2024
Seonghwa Ceremony: August 3, 2024
GoFundMe: https://gofund.me/0f1bcbbf
William Henry Thompson was born on November 18, 1950, in Bethesda, Maryland. In his younger years, Bill was a very happy and active child. Every Sunday he used to walk three miles to Mass with his mother and sisters. After church the kids always had a banana split.
He attended Montgomery College in Maryland. When he was 18, Bill developed an ulcer in his large intestine which he had to deal with his whole life. Bill’s three maternal uncles were Catholic priests; perhaps this is why God and Faith were always important to him. He was always thinking about God.
Bill was 24 when, in June of 1975, he met a missionary from Germany and joined the Unification Church in Los Angeles, California. He worked for the Washington Monument event in September of 1976 and put his whole heart into it. Shortly after the event, Bill’s mission was changed to Master Marine, Inc. in Bayou La Batre, Alabama. While he was a security guard for Master Marine shipyard, he read hundreds of True Father’s printed speeches which were available at that time. He was so inspired by Rev. Moon’s speeches that he continued to read them up until his last surgery in May 2024.
Bill’s mission in Bayou La Batre included both shrimping and tuna fishing on the Master Marine built shrimp boat “The Sunrise” which was later converted to a long liner to catch yellowfin tuna in the Gulf of Mexico. He continued fishing for about ten years until his health would no longer allow it. One day Bill met True Father who asked him how long he had been working on the fishing boat. Bill told him “Ten years.” True Father told Bill he was proud of him for working so hard.
Bill was Blessed to Yoko Kuruma October 14, 1982, in Seoul, Korea. They have four children. Bill had a flower business and enjoyed meeting people and telling jokes to make them laugh. His return customers often mention how they enjoyed Bill’s cheerful nature and funny jokes.
Bill departed from this life on July 26, 2024, with his wife, his children and grandchildren around him. He is survived by his wife, Yoko, his children Young Nam, Kayoung, Kasun (Eric), and Yeji, and his two bright and joyful grandsons, Morgan and Rayden Alvarez, as well as two younger sisters and a younger brother.
In Memory of Robert Hall
Robert Edgerton Hall
Spouse: Amanda Hall
Children: Christopher
DOB: January 15, 1945
Blessing: July 1, 1982
Ascension: September 16, 2024
Seonghwa Ceremony: September 25 at 115-33 Sutphin Boulevard,
Jamaica, NY 11434 (viewing at 10am, Seonghwa at 11am)
Livestream: https://vimeo.com/event/2130831
Burial (Wonjeon): Pinelawn Cemetery, 2030 Wellwood Ave, Farmingdale, NY 11735
GoFundMe: https://gofund.me/3fca9544
Robert Egerton Hall Jr., 79, passed away peacefully on September 16, 2024. He was born in Guyana, South America, on January 15, 1945; the cherished fourth child and sole son of the late Robert Egerton Hall Sr. and Walterine Fraser-Hall.
Robert led a life beyond what many could imagine, touching countless lives along the way. He embodied kindness, consideration, and sincerity like no other. As a young man, he attended Queenstown RC School and the Guyanese College of Modern Education. Later, he became a teacher at Agricola Methodist Primary School and then a nurse at Georgetown Public Hospital, a testament to his selfless service. As a teacher, his drive was solely to uplift others. As a nurse, he consistently provided remarkable and attentive care, as recounted by a previous patient of his.
During his nursing tenure, Robert became a member of the Unification Church and a founding member of the Unified Family Singers in Guyana. His singing career also extended into the New Hope Singers International and the Boricua College Chorus, to name a few. After moving to Manhattan, New York, he was employed as an Administrative Assistant at Noticias del Mundo.
On July 1, 1982, Robert was blessed in union to his loving wife Amanda by Reverend and Mrs. Moon at Madison Square Garden. They then had a son, Christopher Hall.
Today, Robert is celebrated as an accomplished singer and composer, a talent that emerged in his youth. His latest role was as the Conductor and Director of the Sound of Music choir of the Manhattan Family Church.
Robert was predeceased by his parents Robert E. Hall Snr. and Walterine Fraser-Hall; sister Norma Hall-Ashford; brothers-in-law Robert Ashford, Stanley Harper, Oswald Abrams, and nephews Garry Elliott and Terell Spruill-Hall.
His memories will live on through: his loving wife Amanda Hall and devoted son Christopher Hall; his siblings Sherry Moyce, Lucille Harper, Joan Abrams, Moreen McLennan, Yvonne Prescott (Ronald Snr.), and Cheryl Hall; his nieces and nephews Ronda Nunes (Ricky Snr.), Nicky Pobee Mensah, Scott Spruill Hall, Diann Gerson, Wayne Moyce, Julie Hester, Lydia Kate Hussey (Oliver), Gail Elliott, Leah Canton (Jeffrey), Llouana Harper-Louis (Richard), André Abrams (Katinea Miller), Alexis Abrams (Morris Blake), Antón Abrams, Brian McLennan Jnr., Sophia McLennan, Roseanne McLennan, Sharon Prescott, Ronald Prescott Jnr. (Carrie), Monique Marshall, Douglas Watson Jnr., his god-children Alyssa Blake and others, in addition to his many great nieces and nephews; great, great nieces and nephews.
His cousins Jean Maloney, Celia Gaskin, Venus Carmichael, Malcom Fraser III, Meryl Castello, Patricia Fraser, Elizabeth Fraser, Florence Fraser, Eugene Ward, Claude Ward, Veronica Fraser, Monica Fraser, Peter Fraser, Stay Jacqueline Mitchell, Cecily Barrington, Denise Roach, Patricia Nelson, Yvonne Fraser-Gray, Patsy Dinzey, Anthony Shields, Hyacinth Hall, Sandra Hall, Beryl, Carlotta, Andrea, Jennifer, Agatha, Carol, Nicholas, Bridget, Andrew, Keisha, all of Guyana, South America, and others, too many to mention.
His friends Fr. Kofi Amissah, Martin Amissah, and additional members of the Black Catholic Apostolate Church; Los Internationales, New Hope Singers International, Boricua College Chorus, and the Sound of Music choir of the Manhattan Family Church, and many others.
Rest in peace, dear Robert! You are now with your Heavenly Father, amidst the Choir of Angels. We love you!
In Memory of Rosemary Takahashi
Rosemary Takahashi
Spouse: Kazuo Takahashi
Children: Kasumi, Jine, Fumika, Seiko
DOB: January 7, 1954
Blessing: July 1, 1982
Ascension: September 12, 2024
Seonghwa Ceremony: Saturday September 21, at 10 am EDT at the Mealey Funeral Home, 2509 Limestone Road, Wilmington, DE 19808
Viewing: Saturday 21, at 9 am EDT
GoFundMe: https://gofund.me/d5cabd3d
Rosemary Una Guy was born in Falmouth in Cornwall, England, on January 7, 1954. While growing up, she enjoyed spending time with her older brother Robin and older sister Ruby, and baking with her mother Gwen. Her father Charles was a blacksmith. Rosemary had a great interest in the world and loved learning languages, including French and German. She also enjoyed going to church with her parents and had fond memories of singing in the choir and ringing the church bells.
While in her first year of study at the University of Reading in 1972, Rosemary joined the Unification Church. From 1973 to 1975, she traveled with International One World Crusade and supported Reverend Moon’s Day of Hope speaking tour. Her travels took her to multiple cities in the United States, Japan, and South Korea. Rosemary then worked in Europe as a missionary and, in 1978, went to Toronto, Canada to continue her missionary work. She later moved to Edmonton for a pioneering mission. Rosemary loved living in Canada and made some lifelong friendships.
Rosemary married Kazuo Takahashi on July 1, 1982, in the 2,075 couples blessing held in Madison Square Garden in New York. In 1986, they moved to Wilmington, Delaware, where they began running a Japanese restaurant (Mikasa, later renamed Niwano Hana). The restaurant was well-known in the area and was awarded the “Best of Delaware” many times during its 22-year run.
Rosemary and Kazuo had four daughters who had a great upbringing in Delaware, engaging in many activities - going to Japanese language school, taking tennis lessons, participating in the local 4H club, and reading many books from the library. As a family, they enjoyed going out in nature, including picking fruits, hiking, and taking camping trips. Rosemary loved to try out new recipes from global cuisines and the family enjoyed many homemade birthday cakes, mostly cheesecakes. She also loved to spend time with her family cats, Mimi and Lilo.
While raising her children, Rosemary was active in the church community and served as a representative to the Women’s Federation for World Peace. In addition to supporting the restaurant business, she worked various jobs such as delivering newspapers and working at a tax accounting firm. She also studied to complete her Bachelor of Arts degree, which she received from Regents College in 1998, and her Master of Education degree, received from Wilmington University in 2006. Rosemary then began her teaching career, first in the public school system, and then at private schools providing special education. She was so happy to serve in this profession, having had a passion for teaching for many years, including when she taught English to Vietnamese refugees in Canada.
Rosemary was officially diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease in 2019, though the disease had already been slowly progressing for some years prior. She spent the last few years under the loving care of her family at home. Despite the pain and difficulty of living with this disease, she maintained her kindness, sense of humor, enthusiasm for social connection, and appreciation of music and nature. On the evening of September 12, 2024, Rosemary passed away with her family at her side. She is survived by her husband, Kazuo, and her daughters Kasumi, Jine, Fumika, and Seiko.
In Memory of Hideo Kotani
Hideo Kotani
Spouse: Mitsuyo Kotani
Children: Yoshia, Hanna, Naomi, Maika
DOB: September 11, 1965
Blessing: October 30, 1988
Ascension: September 3, 2024
Seonghwa Ceremony: Sunday 15, at 10 am PST at the Los Angeles Family Church 2301 Findlay Ave, Monterey Park, CA, 91754
GoFundMe Link: https://www.gofundme.com/f/in-memory-of-hideo-kotani-support-his-family?utm_campaign=fp_ss_icons_ai&utm_content=amp9v1&utm_medium=customer&utm_source=copy_link
Hideo Kotani was born on September 11, 1965 in Shimane, Japan. He is the eldest of 2 sons to Hiroshi and Etsuko Kotani. He was witnessed by a close friend in 1986, soon after which he joined the Unification Movement. When he heard the Divine Principle, he truly believed it was the truth. Around the time, he joined the movement, his father and a close mentor passed. However, instead of staying in his hometown to support his widowed mother, he felt that he had to do God's Will because he could not deny the Principle.
He moved to Hiroshima where his mission was to sell household medicine door to door. After receiving the 6,500 Couples' Blessing in 1988 with Mitsuyo Takano(maiden name), he volunteered to do God's providence in America in 1992. He did MFT in Chicago and managed a Japanese restaurant in Arizona. He finally came to Los Angeles as part of the Japanese Evangelical Association in 1992.
In 1995, his wife joined him to start a family. They were blessed with 4 lovely children, Yoshia(28), Hanna(26), Naomi(24), and Maika(22). From 1996 until the day he passed, Hideo diligently worked for True World Foods (formerly known as Uni World). In 2023, he was diagnosed with stage 4 stomach cancer. He fought courageously against the illness with the support of his family but ascended a year later on September 3rd, 2024. He took his last breath in his own home, surrounded by family.
He is remembered as a man of few words, but he spoke passionately about his interests and the Divine Principle. His children remember his passion for watching professional wrestling and baseball. He was also remembered for his endurance and lack of complaint. Despite having swollen hands and feet from gout, he would go to work every day for his family. Most of all, he is remembered as someone with a kind, embracing heart. He would tear up when speaking about Heavenly Parent and True Parents, depicting his true love and filial heart towards them. We can feel his joy being embraced in Heavenly Parent’s bosom now.
In Memory of Gregg Smith
Gregg Smith
Spouse: Claudelina Smith
Children: Cassandra and Michael
DOB: January 2, 1952
Blessing: July 1, 1982
Ascension: September 1, 2024
Seonghwa Ceremony: Saturday, Sept. 7 at 3 pm PST at the Los Angeles Family Church, 2301 Findlay Ave, Monterey Park, CA 91754
Seonghwa Live Link: https://uci.zoom.us/j/91884198904
Send Flowers: CPS Flowers
2180 S Garfield Ave, Monterey Park, CA 91754, (626) 574-5677 or (323) 726-6968
https://www.cpsflowers.com/?y_source=1_MjA4OTE4MDItNzE1LWxvY2F0aW9uLndlYnNpdGU%3D
Lester Gregg Smith, born on January 2, 1952, in San Bernardino, California, had a deep love for music from a young age. Aspiring to be a rock star, he was a rebel at heart, never satisfied with the status quo.
In 1976, Gregg attended a workshop at Camp Mozumdar and joined the church there. He served on MFT becoming a champion fundraiser. He met, married and was blessed to his soulmate, Claudelina, and together they built a life of love and service.
Gregg served as the Long Beach City Leader in the mid-1980s and later dedicated ten years as a Sunday School Teacher in Los Angeles. In 2006, he became the church State Leader for Southern California and the LA church pastor.
In 2010, Gregg and Claudelina moved to Las Vegas, where he started the first band and music ministry. He also served as Secretary General for UPF and laid the foundation for Ocean Providence activities. He became a boat captain and established connections for True Parents at Lake Mead.
In 2018, Gregg co-pastored the Las Vegas church with Claudelina and Jonathan Jesper. His passion for music greatly impacted the Las Vegas community.
Gregg’s last performance was for True Mother in Las Vegas on October 7, 2023. He was hospitalized the next day and diagnosed with bladder cancer, passing away peacefully on September 1, 2024, surrounded by family.
Gregg was a loving husband, father, and grandfather, leaving behind a legacy of dedication and love. He impacted so many lives. He truly was a rock star.
He is survived by Claudelina (wife), Cassandra (daughter), and Michael (son) and their families.
In Memory of Richard Wiltermood
Richard Wiltermood
Spouse: Kazuyo Wiltermood
Children: James, Daniel, Rebecca
DOB: April 15, 1942
Blessing: July 1, 1982
Passing: August 7, 2024
Seonghwa Ceremony: Friday, August 16 at 9:30 AM at BAFC WonJeon: Friday, August 16 at 12:30 PM at Lone Tree Cemetery - 24591 Fairview Avenue, Hayward, CA 94542
Seonghwa Live Broadcast Link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86139175309?pwd=DT4lxGzQvyWgcHdPHACpHsEgrbtImo.1
GoFundMe: https://www.gofundme.com/f/in-loving-memory-of-richard-wiltermood
Send Flowers: Can be ordered through Monika Kellet at 510 853 1703 or any local florist
Card and Donation: Check payable to Kazuyo Wiltermood
13570 Mount Rainier Street Reno, NV 89506
Richard Alvin Wiltermood was born in Peoria, Illinois on April 15, 1942. He was the son of Joseph and Zena Wiltermood and was the youngest of six siblings: Mary, Edna, Joanne, Lee, and Joe. Richard grew up on a big farm in Illinois where his dad worked as a pony trainer. His father was a prominent figure in the horse and pony community, even having the opportunity to meet President Eisenhower. With a profound love for animals, his father claimed he could communicate with horses, a gift Richard inherited. He developed a deep affection for all living things, often talking to trees as his father spoke to horses. Richard's mother, deeply devoted to her faith in Christianity and her love for Jesus. Both of his parents instilled in him a yearning for a profound relationship with God, Jesus, and nature.
During high school, Richard’s family relocated to San Pablo, California. After graduating and leaving his family’s home, he sought to deepen his connection with God and creation, living on a sailboat at a marina and later moving to the mountains. His focus was solely on his spiritual and natural pursuits, with little interaction with others.
While in the mountains, Richard had a vision of a large cross. He felt that God was revealing to him that while he had a strong relationship with God and Jesus (represented by the vertical part of the cross), he was lacking in his relationships with others (represented by the horizontal part). He understood this as a call to engage more with and develop genuine connections with people.
Soon after, Richard traveled to Colorado to share his vision with his sister, Mary. While in Colorado, in 1979, he encountered The Principle for the second time, was so touched and moved by its teachings, and this time, joined The Unification Church. He became involved in various activities, including the witnessing and IOWC teams, where he created butterfly domes for fundraising.
In 1982, Richard and his wife, Kazuyo, received the 2075 blessing. Shortly after, he attended the Unification Theological Seminary (UTS) from 1982 to 1985. Their first son, James, was born in 1984. After graduating from UTS, Richard became the city leader of Tuscaloosa, Alabama, later advancing to the Alabama state leader and then Kentucky state leader, where their second son, Daniel, was born in 1990.
Richard and his family then moved to the Bay Area, California, in response to fulfill the hometown providence request from Father Moon. There, Richard worked for Golden Gate Seafood Company (now True World Foods) and University Marine, constructing large fish tanks. Their third child, Rebecca, was born in 1993.
In 2004, his family relocated to Reno, Nevada. Richard began working as a school bus driver, where he worked for 20 years. He loved his job, the students, his coworkers and bosses, and was loved by everyone in return. He was so happy to be driving the school bus, he wouldn’t take any days off, even if he was sick, and never had the desire to retire.
Beyond his job, Richard enjoyed visiting churches and engaging with the community, visiting people house-to-house alongside Kazuyo, fulfilling the tribal messiahship. He was also so grateful and proud of being able to receive the CheonBo award together with his wife in 2020.
In February 2024, during a routine checkup, Richard was found to have dangerously low blood levels and was told to go straight to the emergency room. There he was diagnosed with a rare leukemia affecting his bone marrow. Despite the diagnosis, he was determined to heal so he could continue serving God and others, especially his wife who he loved so deeply. His compromised immune system prevented him from working or visiting people. Through medication, diet, and prayers, Richard’s blood levels began to rise and he regained the ability to visit churches and people, which brought him great joy. However, on July 31, 2024, Richard unexpectedly suffered a stroke and, unable to recover due to complications from his leukemia, passed away peacefully on August 7, 2024, at 11:42 am, surrounded by his family.
Richard's life was a testament to his deep connection with God, True Parents, and Jesus. He loved his wife and children endlessly and unconditionally. Richard built meaningful relationships wherever he went, touching many lives through the love he shared.
In Memory of Elsa Maria Rylands
Elsa Maria Rylands
Spouse: Alan Rylands
Children: Arthur, Albert, Adele, Alfred, Edward
DOB: December 18, 1953
Blessing: July 1, 1982
Passing: August 8, 2024
Seonghwa Ceremony: Saturday, August 17, 8:30 AM EST Edwards-Dowdle Funeral Home
Viewing: Friday, August 16, 4:00 pm-11:00 pm EST
GoFundMe: https://gofund.me/7d0327c4
Prayer Vigil: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1ZM1WVCd0Pa_4MaKlQezxUT58HFAGdgAo3pa4s7w2iZw/edit?usp=sharing
Send Flowers: https://www.edwardsdowdle.com/obituaries/Elsa-Mar-A-Rylands?obId=32651573
Elsa was born in Bogota, Colombia on Dec. 18, 1953. She was six when her family moved to Guaduas, a country village nearby, where her mother Sara got a teaching job. Elsa’s father, Carlos Parra, had just passed away. For eleven years she and five siblings traveled to the big city on weekends for plays, music, dance, and other social activities. Elsa enjoyed basketball and sports in general. She participated in choral events and was a theater/drama director for her fellow students. Everyone said that she was a very gentle and a sweet soul. She graduated High School in 1971 with two sisters. Elsa then worked with grandpa in Bogota and visited Tio Jorge in Puerto Rico before coming to the USA by May of 1974.
Elsa was then a governess for well-to-do families, ending November 1977 as she joined the Unification movement full-time in Tarrytown, NY. She did missionary-type work in the Bronx, NY until 1986, the start of her family. Elsa became a mom. She also was a naturalized USA Citizen and got the academic equivalentof Associate from CUNY Hunter College from 1997 – 1999. In 2000, the Rylands family moved to Ossining and Elsa was a Teaching Assistant at Ossining High School where she taught special education kids for twenty-three years. The kids and teachers adored her. Elsa also loved trips abroad with her sisters, daughter, and grandson. Lastly, she was involved in a communal garden and homeowners group from 2020. The fellow residents appreciated her so much.
She was introduced to Alan W Rylands, of Chicago, IL, on Dec. 30, 1980 and they became engaged at once. On July 01, 1982, Elsa and Alan were blessed in marriage at NYC’s Madison Square Garden, a Unification mass wedding with 2,075 couples. In 1985, about five years from when Elsa and Alan first met, they conceived twins. Arthur and Albert were born in 1986. After that came Adele, then Alfred, and finally Edward. It was five children in six years. Oh boy, the number of diapers seemed unlimited! They lived in a Manhattan apartment for three years before moving to a rental house in Forest Hills, Queens. The kids walked everywhere before Elsa got her driver’s license. Parks and reading were their favorite activities. Plus, Elsa and the kids relished the numerous driving vacations they took with Alan. At last, on Jan 01, 2000, the family moved into their own house in Ossining, NY, totally paid with help from Alan’s dad. It became a real home not just for Elsa’s family, but also provided an emergency home for close relatives and to welcome guests, mi casa es su casa. She lived there for the rest of her life.
Her husband Alan; her five children, Arthur, Albert, Adele, Alfred, Edward; her five siblings, Stella, Sara Patricia, Juan Carlos, Richard, Zelma; last, but certainly not least, the apple of her eye, her two-year-old grandson Robin; as well as an extensive extended family. Elsa is moving on to the third level of life, and will continue to bring love and light to the earthly and heavenly worlds.
In Memory of Betsy Orman
Betsy Orman
Spouse:
Larry Orman
Children: Sam and Virginia
DOB: February 11, 1954
Blessing: July 1, 1982
Passing: August 1, 2024
Seonghwa Ceremony: Wednesday, August 7, 2024 at 10:00 am PST, 101 Colusa Ave, El Cerrito, CA 94530
Seonghwa Live Broadcast Link: https://www.viewlogies.net/sunset-view/TsCBeiCZs?pin=555051
Send Flowers: You can send flowers here: https://www.sunsetviewcemetery.com/ and use https://www.goldenpoppyflorist2.com/
GoFundMe: https://www.gofundme.com/f/betsy-orman
Prayer Chain: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1M2EPjYrjwRFrzgV6SzfjAcBA0lHCsXwafveKwLsa8zM/edit
Betsy Orman was born on February 11, 1954, and raised in Los Angeles, California. She was the daughter of Richard and Ruth Halpert, sister of Lewis Halpert, and the identical twin sister of Edy Iversen. Because of the difficult life she experienced growing up, at 16 years old she began seeking a place where people of goodness could be found. This led her to a spiritual search in Hawaii, where she lived an ascetic lifestyle in the mountains for three years. At age 22, Betsy had the amazing fortune to meet the Unification Movement and learn the teachings of Rev. Drs. Sun Myung Moon and Hak Ja Han Moon. They spoke of building a world of true love, so joining them was the beginning of a life filled with personal transformation and adventures.
In 1976, Betsy began her first foray into fundraising to help develop a financial foundation for building "God’s Peaceful Ideal Kingdom on the Earth," the goal of the Unification Church. For nine years, she pioneered the ginseng business and natural health movement. Traveling across America, she realized the unique beauty of each state. God provided her with extraordinary leaders and mentorship along the way.
In 1979, Betsy was called to New York for the matching ceremony, where True Father paired with her future husband, Larry. In 1982, they were blessed in the 2075 blessing ceremony at Madison Square Garden. Despite both being Americans, Betsy was a lively Jewish woman from Los Angeles, while Larry was a quiet midwesterner from North Dakota. They committed their lives to blessing and building an ideal family together.
Moving to Northern Virginia, she worked in the Mid-Atlantic Regional HQ as the Special Projects Director. During this time, AFC was responsible for providing education about freedom, faith, and family on Capitol Hill to over 30,000 leaders nationwide. Also, as a CAUSA director, she helped educate over 200 clergy as well as several high-ranking military officers who were former CAUSA graduates. She accompanied them to Korea, where they learned first-hand the dangers of the atheistic ideology of Communism. She also began working to bring character education into the schools of Northern Virginia.
After nine years, she moved to her husband's hometown of Fargo, North Dakota, where she raised her beautiful twins, Sammy and Virginia. With the unconditional support of her husband, Larry, she worked as the American Family Coalition state director. She continued her work as state coordinator educating political, religious, and community leaders, and lobbied to help create National Parent’s Day. Her outreach extended from the highest halls of Congress, reaching even presidents, senators, and congressmen, to the humblest disenfranchised populations from throughout the world, including Native Americans, the Hmong community, and Kurdish, Sudanese, and Iraqi refugees. Her work in education extended overseas for 40 days in China and Hong Kong and included three trips to Japan with the Women’s Federation for World Peace, Korea as a missionary, and England with the Professors World Peace Academy. Through her outreach, she was able to conduct several Holy Wine Blessing ceremonies including to Larry’s extended family in his hometown.
The Ormans were called in 2002 to help strengthen the University of Bridgeport in Connecticut. Realizing the need to raise the next generation of leadership, Betsy returned to college to finish her degree and graduated summa cum laude in her 50s. She then earned a master's degree in counseling in her 60s. As a professor, she created a curriculum to help students succeed in life and become leaders of goodness. She also wrote a weekly newspaper column, “For Your Inspiration”, which provided parenting education throughout the region. Together with her husband and children for sixteen years, they created a refuge in their home for students from all over the world and watched the University of Bridgeport thrive.
After a brief transition in West Virginia, they moved in 2020 to their home in Lorman, Mississippi on the beautiful campus of Alcorn State University, the first historically black public land-grant college in America. There, Larry became Vice President for Marketing and Communication. During the past four and a half years, Betsy had been unable to work as a professor due to her health. Instead, she felt her mission was as a prayer warrior for the success of the school. During this time, she was also able to complete her inspirational life story, “The Pathway to Peace, Hope and True Love, A Spiritual Journey," which was published on Amazon. In her book, she testifies to the incredible teachings and accomplishments of Rev. and Mrs. Sun Myung Moon, whom she considers her Messiah and True Parents, as they provided her the impetus, inspiration, prayer, and guidance necessary to help transform humanity.
Before her passing, she wanted to acknowledge all those who supported her throughout her life, especially the mentors who guided her along the way. She also wished to recognize the incredible leaders and members of the Unification Church who dedicated themselves to saving America and the world. She planned to continue her mission of serving God and True Parents in the spiritual world.
In Memory of Robert Robert Kitchens
Robert Kitchens
Spouse: Hiromi Kitchens
Children: Jeremy
DOB: August 1, 1957
Blessing: October 14, 1982
Passing: July 12, 2024
Seonghwa Ceremony: Saturday, July 20, 2024 at 8:30am EST, Edwards-Dowdle Funeral Home, 64 Ashford Ave, Dobbs Ferry, NY 10522
Seonghwa Zoom link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86570384420
(Please text or WhatsApp message Will Jacobson at (914) 357-3332 if you are having any issues with Zoom)
Viewing: Friday, July 19, 2024 from 4:00pm to 11:00pm EST. Memorial Service @ 7:00pm, Edwards-Dowdle Funeral Home, 64 Ashford Ave, Dobbs Ferry, NY 10522
Send Flowers: https://edwardsdowdle-funeral-home.tributestore.com/sympathy-landing?oId=32335501&source=tco_description&_cdx=GA1.1.655426734.1721119436%3AGS1.1.1721119436.1.0.1721119436.60.0.0
GoFundMe: https://gofund.me/c71c2df0
Prayer Vigil Signup: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1ik88HxFvcbPPx6NSrk-mWEmRnizvN4DYq-bnjo8OFRc/edit?usp=sharing
Our beloved brother, Robert “Rob” Kitchens, of the Belvedere Family Church in New York, ascended to the spiritual world at 8:10am Friday, July 12, 2024.
Rob was born August 1, 1957 in Newport Beach, California. Rob was always a true artist at heart. He played the trumpet in his youth, followed by the flute and the guitar which he played for many, many years. Rob always had a great ear for music. He could listen to a song once and piece it together from memory. He was always a unique free thinker and willing to look at things from many different angles. He enjoyed talking with others and sharing stories. He carried conversations with enthusiasm and great interest. Rob also took a liking to art. A high school course in ceramics lit a spark in him; after high school, he worked for others as a production potter, then bought and installed his own kiln at his house in Costa Mesa so he could do his own ceramic work. With his ceramics experience under his belt, he studied at Humboldt State in Northern California and played in the school’s Marching Lumberjack band.
In 1980 Rob first encountered the Unification Movement in San Francisco on the way home from college. Shortly after he joined, he started working at Ned’s Loft with a small team and helped develop Ned’s Loft into a wood inlay studio. He played an instrumental role at the company as he pioneered their marquetry production process.
Rob received the Blessing on October 14, 1982 in Seoul, Korea to Hiromi Kitchens (Hiromi Ogata at the time). He continued to work at Ned’s Loft until they moved to Farmingdale, NY in 1983 where they rebranded as Creative Designs. Rob was still involved in production then and in 1987 Creative Designs moved to Ossining, New York. There, he spearheaded the digitization of production as well as the implementation of laser cutting into their production process.
In 1989, Rob and Hiromi settled into family life in Ossining, NY. After years of trying to conceive, they received a son, Jeremy, in December of 1995. Rob was a kind-hearted husband and father and always made time for family. Rob, Hiromi and Jeremy spent many vacations with Rob’s family in California and upstate New York as well as Hiromi’s family in Tokyo and Miyazaki, Japan.
In the mid to late 90s Creative Designs had rebranded again under a new name, Hudson River Inlay, where Rob continued to work in marquetry production and occasionally sales. Rob also continued to pursue his passion for music by singing in the church choir as well as playing the guitar and flute with his other musically gifted friends and coworkers. He later became well known for playing the guitar at Sunday service for the Belvedere Family Church. Rob had an infectious smile and fun-loving personality that welcomed all. People have been moved by the kindness and sincerity he offered to those who knew him.
He is survived by his son, Jeremy, and his siblings, David, Susan, James and Thomas, as well as a large extended family. Rob is moving on to the third level of life, and will continue to bring love and light to the Earthly and Heavenly worlds.