In memory of those who “died suddenly” in the United States, May 15-May 22, 2023
Novelist Martin Amis; "Avatar" editor John Refoua; TV director Leon Ichaso; photographers Ali Rafiq & Chris Elise; 3 teens; dissident Dr. Rashid Buttar (who may well have been poisoned); & more
UNITED STATES
‘Avatar’ film editor John Refoua has died at 58
May 16, 2023
One of the geniuses behind Avatar and its sequel Avatar: The Way of Water, John Refoua, passed away on Sunday from complications related to his bile cancer. The 58-year-old Oscar-nominated film editor reached a new level in his career when he worked on the James Cameron epic, which went on the become the highest-grossing movie of all time, a position it still holds to this day. Refoua worked with director Cameron and fellow editor Stephen E. Rivkin, with all three ending up receiving Oscar nominations for their work on the sci-fi epic whose visuals and 3D visuals broke new ground for cinematography. They were all nominated for the best achievement in film editing at the Academy Awards in 2010. Refoua returned to work on the sequel Avatar: The Way of Water which currently sits at the third highest-grossing movie of all time beneath Avatar and Marvel’s Avengers: Endgame.
Leon Ichaso, TV Director of ‘Miami Vice’ and ‘Queen of the South,’ Dies of Heart Attack at 74
May 22, 2023
Veteran director Leon Ichaso, who directed TV episodes from “Miami Vice” to “Queen of the South,” and numerous features, died suddenly of a “massive heart attack,” his sister said Monday. “My beloved brother Leon Ichaso died today of an unexpected massive heart attack in Los Angeles,” his sister Mari Rodríguez Ichaso tweeted in Spanish on Monday. “Brilliant, full of life, youth of spirit and illusions. A wonderful filmmaker and a unique being – and everyone who has met him knows it. I am destroyed. God help us!” Mari, who is a contributor to the Spanish-language Vanidades magazine and a style columnist for CNN en Español, shared another tweet in English, in which she wrote, “Leon Ichaso- RIP- Pioneer of telling the history of immigrants in his movies! A brilliant director & writer. Loved Life. My beloved brother!… Damn sudden heart attack!” Ichaso directed multiple episodes of “Miami Vice” and “Crime Story” in the ’80s, and most recently the Alice Braga USA series “Queen of the South.” He also helmed episodes of “The Cleaner, “Prodigal Son,” “Medium,” and “Criminal Minds.” “Queen of the South Writer” Jorge A. Reyes also shared a tribute to Icharo, saying, “We lost a real one today: Leon Ichaso. Cuban… A true artist & caballero. RIP, hermano.”
https://www.yahoo.com/entertainment/leon-ichaso-tv-director-miami-203423777.html
Martin Amis: Celebrated British novelist dies aged 73
May 21, 2023
Martin Amis, one of the most celebrated British novelists of his generation, has died aged 73. He died of oesophageal cancer at his Florida home, the New York Times said, quoting his wife, the writer Isabel Fonseca. Amis is best known for his 1984 novel Money and the 1989 work London Fields. He authored 14 novels and several non-fiction books, and is widely considered one of the most influential writers of his era. Born in 1949 in Oxford, he was the son of the novelist and poet Sir Kingsley Amis. The younger Amis followed in his father's footsteps after graduating from Oxford University with his first novel The Rachel Papers.
Two photographers “died suddenly”:
Tom Sandoval mourns ‘best friend’ Ali Rafiq after tragic sudden death at 41
May 22, 2023
Tom Sandoval has mourned the loss of his best friend and brother Ali Rafiq [center] after the sudden death of the photographer at the age of 41. Last weekend, the Vandermpump Rules star took to Instagram and paid tribute to his close friend, Ali Rafiq, after the devastating news of his passing. Tom, Ariana Madix, and Kristen Doute are among the Bravo stars who remembered Ali in heartbreaking posts shared on social media.
No cause of death reported.
PBR remembers photographer Chris Elise: Elise, a longtime friend of the sport, passed away last Saturday night - aged 50
May 19, 2023
To meet Chris Elise was to immediately fall in love with the man. And, now, suddenly, tragically, he is gone. Elise grew up in France, watching cowboy westerns on a black-and-white TV set with his grandfather. His dream was to come to America and be a cowboy. Elise did just that, using his passion for photography to shoot PBR. And he was very good, as seen in his photographs.
No cause of death reported.
Two doctors “died suddenly”:
Dr. Rashid Buttar, 57
May 20, 2023
Dr. Buttar, 57, a licensed physician and a retired Major in the US Army who served in special forces, died on Thursday at his home, while spending time with his family, according to an email sent by his family. “I received an email today from his family announcing that he, at 57 years old and in total health, passed to the other side, behind the veil we call ‘death.’ I´m saddened and a bit worried. He spoke loudly against the Pharma industry and their trickery, he helped thousands of families with kids injured by vaccines and other illnesses. I honor his courage and generosity. I feel love wins though, love and truth always win,” wrote Dr. Victoria Abdelnur.
“Absolutely gutted. I just interviewed him a couple of days ago and we had an amazing conversation on spirituality and belief. RIP Dr. Buttar, you were a hero when most North American doctors were cowards,” said Laura-Lynn Tyler Thompson. Dr. Buttar gained significant attention after claiming that he had developed a cancer and myocarditis as a result of “shedding.” These allegations immediately drew attention and he was attacked by left-wing media.
No cause of death reported.
A few days ago, Dr. Buttar joined Laura-Lynn Tyler Thompson, former co-host of The 700 Club Canada, to discuss “The Coronavirus Agenda: the real story behind the origin of Covid-19”:
During the discussion, Dr. Buttar said, “I went through a very difficult personal health challenge a few months ago, I was in the ICU. I had been poisoned with this 200 times the amount of what’s in the vaccinations. And I’ve said publicly, you know, you’d have to shoot me in the head with lead, i.e. bullet, because I’m never going to take the vaccine. So I was actually intentionally poisoned. And part of it was, I believe, right after that CNN interview. The message I want people to know is, remember the importance of exercising free will, and then also as a default, as a backup, slow down and remember that God is in control,” he added.
https://twitter.com/FredFredderson1/status/1659957007837720580
Dr. Ramin Oskoui Died at the Age of 60
May 17, 2023
After a segment ran on Fox News on May 16, 2023, many were saddened to learn that Dr. Ramin Oskoui has died. A tribute to Dr. Oskoui ran as part of The Ingraham Angle, which also included the information that the Washington, D.C., doctor was only 60 at the time of his death. According to The Ingraham Angle, Dr. Oskoui was doing his cardiology rounds on May 5 when he collapsed and later died. We don't have any additional details on his exact cause of death yet, but it's clear that his death was sudden and unexpected.
No cause of death reported.
Three teenagers “died suddenly”:
Destiny Audrey Moubray, 18
May 21, 2023
Destiny Audrey Moubray, 18, of Resettlement Road, Madison, [VA], died on Saturday, May 6, 2023, at the University of Virginia Medical Center, Charlottesville. She was born on August 24, 2004, in Manassas.
No cause of death reported.
'Adored Daughter' From Pepperell Dies Suddenly Month Ahead Of 16th Birthday
Jenny "Benny" Marques, of Pepperell [MA], died unexpectedly on Thursday, May 11, according to her obituary. "The adored daughter of Richard 'Rickie' and Eileen Marques," Jenny would have turned 16 on June 27. "Jenny was a lively, outgoing spirit who resided in Pepperell her entire life, where she was always surrounded by friends and family," her obituary reads. "Although her time with us was cut way too short, we loved every moment!" The teenager attended Varnum Brook Elementary School, Nissitissit Middle School and was a sophomore at North Middlesex High School, according to her obituary. Jenny also played several sports like softball, basketball and lacrosse.
No cause of death reported.
North Middlesex Regional High’s covid “vaccination” testing form for students and faculty (to confirm that you have been “completely vaccinated for COVID-19”):
https://www.nmrsd.org/cms/lib/MA50000503/Centricity/Domain/45/PolicyEBCA-E.pdf
Reported on May 14:
Tehani Kealoha, 17
May 14, 2023
Kapolei, Hawaii - A 17-year-old died after suffering a medical emergency during a swimming meet in Kapolei on Saturday. Emergency Medical Services treated and transported the teen, who later died at the hospital. The Medical Examiners office has not released any details about the medical emergency that caused the teen’s death. The identity of the teenager has also not been released. (Later identified as Tehani Kealoha.) The swimmer was at a community swimming event not put on by the Hawaii High School Athletics Association. However, the tragedy has forced the postponement of the girl’s high school State water polo Championships. Kamehameha and Punahou were scheduled to compete for the title on Saturday. In a statement released by the HHSAA, both teams were affected by the incident and agreed to move the match to Monday.
No cause of death reported.
Two policemen “died suddenly”:
Deputy collapses and dies after disarming 18-year-old suspect, Florida sheriff says
May 22, 2023
A North Florida sheriff’s deputy collapsed and died after struggling for more than 6 minutes to take a teen suspect into custody, according to the St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office. It happened around 9 p.m. on Friday, May 19, west of St. Augustine, and the deputy was identified as Sgt. Michael Kunovich, the sheriff’s office said in a news release. The sheriff’s office has not released a cause of death, but the Officer Down Memorial Page reports the deputy suffered a heart attack.
No age reported.
Richard Lee Hudson Jr.
May 21, 2023
Richard Lee Hudson Jr. passed away suddenly on May 12, 2023, in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. Following in the footsteps of his beloved grandfather, Sheriff Walter Sherrard Cook, Richard devoted his career to law enforcement, serving in the Charlottesville [VA] Police Department for more than twenty-six years. After retiring as a Detective Sergeant, Richard continued in his dedication to service by volunteering as a reserve Deputy Sheriff for Albemarle County and working as a Staff Investigator for the Chandler Law Group.
No age or cause of death reported.
A teacher “died suddenly”:
Neal R. Saporta, 43
May 18, 2023
Yonkers, NY - Neal R. Saporta, age 43, passed away peacefully on Sunday, May 14, 2023 after a courageous battle with cancer. He was born March 28, 1980, to Neal and Joanne (Scaperrotta) Saporta. He was a graduate of Fox Lane High School. He worked as a teacher with Chappaqua Childrens Workshop, displaying a wonderful knack of entertaining children.
A coach “died suddenly”:
Mesa High School (Arizona) Head Swim Coach Mike Haney Dies, 54
May 23, 2023
Mesa High School head swim coach Mike Haney, 54, died unexpectedly Thursday night, according to a letter sent out to the school community. He had 30 years of experience in the Mesa Public School system, including decades as the school’s head swim coach. He also worked for Mesa High as a social studies teacher. “Mr. Haney has been a member of our Mesa High staff for many years, and was loved and respected by students, colleagues and families,” Principal Kirk Thomas said in a letter to the school’s students and families. “He will be greatly missed.” Haney worked in the Mesa Public School system for his entire career, since August 1993, including 22 years as the program’s head swim coach.
No cause of death reported.
https://swimswam.com/mesa-high-school-arizona-head-swim-coach-mike-haney-dies/
An educator “died suddenly”:
President of La Roche University, Sister Candace Introcaso, dies unexpectedly
May 22, 2023
McCandless, Pa. — Sister Candace Introcaso, president of La Roche University, died unexpectedly on Monday. Introcaso was named president of the university on July 1, 2004. She is remembered for having a firm commitment to diversity and has been recognized with numerous honors. Introcaso received the Passavant Foundation Legacy of Caring Award in 2018 and won the Pittsburgh Magazine and S&T Bank Woman and Business award in 2016. She received the Pittsburgh Business Times Business Woman First Award in 2014, as well as the newspaper’s Diamond Award, which is presented to the top business leaders in the area.
The university issued the following statement after her death: “The La Roche University community is heartbroken. We have lost our leader, our mentor and our friend. We are remembering Sister Candace for her caring nature, her efficient and direct leadership and her love of life. She was an academic scholar who took pride in seeing students succeed. She loved the La Roche community and the Sisters and Associates of the Congregation of Divine Providence. In her personal life she was happiest cheering for the Pittsburgh Pirates and caring for her two dogs, Jack and PJ. Her spirit will live on at the University.”
No age or cause of death reported.
La Roche’s “vaccination” policy:
La Roche University Requiring COVID-19 Vaccine For On Campus Residents And Athletes
August 26, 2021
Pittsburgh, PA - La Roche University is requiring COVID-19 vaccinations for students living on campus and athletes. The university is strongly recommending the vaccine for its commuters and employees. Face coverings are also required inside all buildings, regardless of someone's vaccination status.
https://www.cbsnews.com/pittsburgh/news/la-roche-covid-19-vaccine-mandate/
A first responder “died suddenly”:
Sandy Hook first responder who survived depression and tragedy dies weeks before birth of 6th child
May 18, 2023
Back when she started going on ambulance calls with him in Bridgeport, Christina Bradley thought her future husband was “the coolest thing on earth.” But after Dan Bradley responded to the Sandy Hook tragedy, it sank him into a depression so deep that Dan and Christina Bradley lost their Stratford home as he went through life self-medicated and homeless. Christina Bradley never gave up hope — even when he told her, “leave me alone and let me die.” So when Dan Bradley called her from Florida in 2019 to tell her that he was sober and “ready,” Christina Bradley eagerly moved down with their kids to start a new life with him in Vero Beach. She said she had never stopped believing that they would be a family again.
“Even when I was so angry at him, I was like, ‘I love this guy,”’ Christina Bradley told Hearst Connecticut Media during an interview from her Florida home, where she is due to give birth to a son, Logan, next week. Christina Bradley and her husband, Dan Bradley. Dan died suddenly last month, and his wife is awaiting the imminent birth of their sixth child. Dan Bradley was an EMT who responded to the Sandy Hook massacre. “On April 5, I went into preterm labor at eight months with our sixth child, and Dan left work to be by my side. I was admitted to labor and delivery for observation, and we talked all night and into the morning, until our (obstetrician) came in and told us to get some sleep as it was 3:30 in the morning,” Christina Bradley said. “I watched him lay down on the dad’s cot right next to my bed and scroll through TikTok, and soon I closed my eyes.”
At 7 a.m., when Dan Bradley’s alarm went off and he didn’t wake up, Christina Bradley understood something was wrong. “I got a horrible feeling. I ripped out all my leads and I went right to him and I checked for carotid pulse … nothing,” she said. “I checked for breath sounds and watched for a rise and fall of his chest … nothing.” Using her EMT training, she “immediately started CPR and was screaming for a nurse.”
“Six courses of medications in attempt of resuscitation couldn’t bring him back,” she said. “He was my everything.” Although the medical examiner said it will be June before an official cause of death can be released for the Stamford native, Christina Bradley suspects it was a pulmonary embolism, or maybe the cancer that was removed from his kidney in 2022 came back and “perhaps he kept (it) from us all.” Regardless of the cause, Dan Bradley’s death is a loss to more than Christina Bradley and her children, she said. “He wasn’t just my everything — he was important to a lot of people, and I don’t want his memory to be forgotten,” she said. “I want to keep his life shining.”
https://www.newstimes.com/news/article/sandy-hook-first-responder-dies-dan-bradley-18102894.php
Beyond public life, Danny Allen recalled as caring
May 23, 2023
Former Hardin County [KY] Jailer Danny Allen is being remembered by his family and friends as a community servant and more following his death Sunday after a short hospitalization. He was 66. Having grown up in Cecilia and a graduate of West Hardin High School, Allen served his community as jailer for two terms, was former Hardin County road supervisor, a Hardin County Schools Board of Education member and had served as chief of the Ky. 86 Fire Department. He also was a deacon and Sunday school instructor at Cecilia and Franklin Crossroads Baptist churches.
Allen was hospitalized after his final radiation treatment Thursday for esophageal cancer and died suddenly following a pulmonary embolism, Matthew said. “He was really weak, run down,” he said. “He had a feeding tube in, which was planned. He was dehydrated. We thought he was going to be through with his treatment, but that was unexpected and sudden,” he added about the embolism. “I knew that at some point it was going to happen based on the type of diagnosis that he had. I thought we had quite a bit more time.” Allen’s daughter, Jenna Colson, was present at Allen’s initial diagnosis of the cancer. “He was a little surprised, but he remained upbeat about the whole thing,” she said. “He wouldn’t really show that he was feeling bad around us.” It was a surprise to learn her father had been moved to the critical care unit, Colson said. “We expected him to get those fluids and be able to go to rehab,” she said. “He said he wanted to see the grandkids graduate. … He didn’t end up leaving the hospital.” It was his love of his grandchildren that was carrying Allen through his cancer treatments, Colson said, which concluded May 15.
Support Pours In After Sudden Death Of Devoted South Jersey Dad, Groundskeeper Michael Erb, 42
May 22, 2023
Cape May, NJ - Michael Joseph Erb, of Villas, died “suddenly yet peacefully” on Tuesday, May 9, his obituary says. Born in Philadelphia, Michael spent the last 25 years working as a groundskeeper and custodian for Lower Cape May Regional High School. He was known for his love of art, which motivated him to launch a family paint party business called Artist on the Rocks in North Cape May. “He had such a passion for all collectibles, toys, nostalgia, memorabilia, the 80's era, anything Disney, and loved being a Duke's Boy,” his obituary says. Above all, however, Michael embraced his role as a devoted dad to his two adoring children, Dette and Mikey.
No cause of death reported.
Jack J. DelMonte, Jr., 57
May 21, 2023
Jack J. DelMonte, Jr., 57, of Utica, NY, formerly of Whitesboro, passed away unexpectedly on May 19, 2023, with his family by his side. Mr. DelMonte was employed for many years by the Town of Whitestown, as supervisor of the Parks and Recreation Department. He is survived by many dear family members and friends.
No cause of death reported.
Link
Jay Page Morris
May 18, 2023
Jay was born in Charlottesville, Virginia, where he attended Albemarle County High School and later graduated from his beloved hometown college – The University of Virginia. He was a loving husband and proud father. He enjoyed spending time with his family, training his black labs – Pepper and Daisy, and learning new songs on his guitar. Jay worked as a facilities manager with CBRE after his 25-year tenure with State Farm. The family and friends that have survived him will miss him immensely.
No age or cause of death reported.
Dianne J. Pullen, 70
May 16, 2023
Dianne J. Pullen entered into eternal rest at Our Lady of the Lake Regional Medical Center on Thursday, May 11, 2023 following a brief illness. She was a 70-year old native of Edgard, Louisiana; a resident of Baker, Louisiana; a graduate of Second Ward High School and Southern University; retired in 2013 from Exxon-Mobil Corp; and dear to her heart was her work with Greater Mount Carmel Baptist Church's Youth and Children's Ministry.
No cause of death reported.
Franklin Roosevelt Hill, 66
May 14, 2023
Franklin Roosevelt Hill, 66, of Palmyra, VA, passed away on Sunday, May 14, 2023, at his home. He was born on February 9, 1957, to the late Roosevelt Hill and Jeanette Brown Hill. He retired from UVA facility management.
No cause of death reported.
Terrance (Chip) Anweiler, 55
May 15, 2022
Terrance (Chip) Anweiler, 55, of Marcy, NY, passed away unexpectedly on Saturday morning. Chip was born and raised in the village of New Hartford and was known for his nickname Chip because he was a “Chip off the old block“ like his father. Chip loved being with his family above all else at camp on 4th Lake in Old Forge or at Hinckley. He enjoyed all things outdoors and was forever tan because of it! He had a 32-year career as a Hot Stick Foreman in the line department with National Grid and worked beside many that he considered dear close friends. Chip loved to surprise his wife and kids with vacations without notice. He loved to travel and took a work hard play hard attitude towards life and was always on the go and planning for future escapades.