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Remembering Past Classmates
and Fellow Einstein Graduates
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Albert Einstein High School opened in September 1962 with students of the Classes of 1964, 1965, and 1966. Through the Briefs, we have notified our alumni network of the deaths of members of the Einstein community.
We are grateful for notifications from AEHS alumni about recent and especially past deaths of classmates so that we may remember them by adding the deceased to the In Memoriam list at https://www.aehshof.com/in-memoriam. Names are added to the page as soon as possible after notification has been received. We are still adding names of alumni who passed away many, many years ago, so it’s never too late to add someone. Please send In Memoriam notifications to InMemoriam@aehshof.com.
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Below are death notices we have received since our last Brief in June 2024. | |
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Brent Chick
Class of 1970
February 24, 1952 – June 25, 2024
Brent Chick, 72 years old, was born February 24, 1952, in Washington D.C. He was the youngest of six children born to William Drew Chick Jr. and Leah Bernice Jones Chick. As a young man, Brent was very involved in Boy Scouts, achieving Eagle Scout, and his free time was spent outdoors, building forts, riding his bike, and foraging. Brent joined the gymnastics team in high school and even placed third in vaulting at a county-wide competition. He was a thespian in the drama club, a member of the a cappella choir, and a member of student government. Brent served a mission for the LDS church in Seattle, Washington. Brent went to Rick’s College and majored in Musical Theater; he also attended Brigham Young University in Provo, Utah, and later graduated from Barnes Business College with a business degree. Brent worked as a manager in customer service with phone companies such as MCI and Qwest, receiving many awards. He spent most of his life and career focused on carpentry and construction, including most recently 16-plus years with The Home Depot. He proudly helped to build the LDS Temple in Washington D.C., as well as numerous buildings and cabins throughout Colorado. Brent really found his calling at The Home Depot, which allowed him to share his lifelong knowledge throughout the store. In addition to being a skilled carpenter, Brent was an accomplished photographer, stamp and coin collector, early computer builder, slot machine aficionado, and witty pun slinger. He enjoyed laughing at good or bad jokes, attending family gatherings and holiday celebrations, and watching cheerful shows and movies. Brent loved his children, his grandchild, and his nieces and nephews, and he reveled in their accomplishments. He also maintained countless profound friendships with former and current coworkers and high school friends and was known to make friends wherever he went, including at convenience stores, restaurants, casinos, and work. Brent is preceded in death by his parents William Jr. and Leah, as well as his siblings William III, Barbara, Bryce, and Ron Chick. He is survived by his four children, Bryan (Alex), Melanie, Mindy, and Jessica (Brett); his grandchild, Evie; his sister Judy; his brother-in-law Sonny; his sisters-in-law Katie and Sue; and ten nieces and nephews. Brent’s celebration of life event will be held on Saturday, September 21, 2024, from 4:00 - 6:00 p.m. at Central Park, 1365 Park Central Dr, Highlands Ranch, CO 80129. In lieu of flowers, please consider contributing toward a bench dedication in Brent’s name at GoFundMe - https://gofund.me/7e036fac
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Emily Anne DeFreytas
Class of 1967
December 11, 1948 — April 28, 2024
Emily Anne DeFreytas, 75, of Knoxville, Maryland, passed away on Sunday, April 28, 2024, at Frederick Health Hospital in Frederick, Maryland. Born on December 11, 1948, in Newport News, Virginia, Emily was the daughter of the late Ora Jabronze Owen and Rose Owen (née Westinghouse). Known affectionately as Anne, she graduated from Albert Einstein High School in Kensington, MD, in 1967, and began her career as a clerk typist at the National Library of Medicine in Bethesda, MD. It was here that she met her husband, Stephen DeFreytas, who survives her. Anne later worked at Bechtel Corporation in Gaithersburg, MD. Following the birth of her son Michael, she operated a home daycare, also caring for her widowed father during his recovery from a heart condition. In 1993, the family relocated to the countryside, and Anne took a position as a registration representative at Frederick Health Hospital, then known as Frederick Memorial Hospital, where she worked until her retirement in 2020. Passionate about her family, she also obtained a real estate license as a secondary occupation but always prioritized her loved ones. An avid lover of the outdoors, Anne cherished landscaping, flowers, and mowing the lawn. Despite an early childhood accident that left her with a weakened leg requiring a brace or crutches, she never let this hinder her enjoyment of activities like softball, swimming, and carnivals. Throughout her life and even during her final health challenges, Anne remained selfless and never complained, always placing the needs of others above her own. Anne is survived by her devoted husband, Stephen DeFreytas; her son, Michael, and his wife, Maggie; her granddaughter, Penelope; her stepdaughter, Michelle, her husband, Don, and their son, Braxton; her sister, Judy Lowman; her nephews, Christopher Lowman and Robert Owen (son of her late brother Ora Owen, Jr.). Anne was predeceased by her parents; her brother, Ora Owen, Jr.; and her nephew, Jeffrey Owen. Anne also leaves behind many cherished aunts, uncles, cousins, and a host of friends and co-workers. Those closest to her knew her deep faith in God's goodness and her boundless love and care for her family and others, which vividly reflected her understanding of God's love. A longtime member of Pleasant Valley Baptist Church, Anne grew in faith and fellowship within her church community. Memorial donations can be made to Pleasant Valley Baptist Church or a charity of your choice.
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Carolyn Alden Huber
Class of 1966 (?)
January 19, 1949 – December 10, 2022
Carolyn Alden Huber, 73, of Dunkirk passed away December 10, 2022, in Annapolis. Carolyn was born in Washington, D.C. on January 19, 1949, to Priscilla and Herbert Watson. She had two siblings, Pat and Randy. Carolyn attended Albert Einstein High School in Kensington, MD and graduated from the University of Maryland with a degree in Early Childhood Development. Carolyn and her husband, Lawrence (deceased 2002), were married on June 23, 1972, at St. James Episcopal Church in Lothian. She was primarily raised in Silver Spring but lived her adult life in Fairhaven. Carolyn loved her family. Her family was her greatest gift and accomplishment. She loved spending time on the water, visiting beaches, looking for seashells, and spending time at the pool with her mom. Carolyn is survived by her children Jeff (Dawn) from Golden Beach and Katie (Chris) from Dunkirk. Additionally, she is survived by five grandchildren Erin (17), Alex (14), Trent (13), Abigail (10), and Logan (8), her beloved mother Priscilla (97), sister Pat (Tom), brother Randy (Dot), sister-in-law Francie (Mike), and dog Taffy.
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Ronald Lee Postman
Class of 1977 (?)
March 30, 1960 – January 24, 2024
Ronald Lee Postman, 63, passed away on January 24, 2024. Ron was born in Washington, D.C. and it was a big surprise. When his sister Sandy was born, the doctor told Marcia, "You finally got your girl!" Then he said, "Hold on, there's another one coming!” His parents and the doctor had no idea they were having twins. He grew up in Kensington, Maryland, graduating from Albert Einstein High School. He then went to the University of Maryland in College Park and graduated with a degree in Industrial Technology. As a teenager, Ron started working for the Maryland National Capital Park and Planning Commission (MNCPPC) performing such jobs as miniature train engineer and ice rink guard at Wheaton Regional Park. After graduating college, he continued working with the park service in Managerial positions, for the rest of his career, retiring in 2016. Ron’s nieces and nephews called Wheaton Regional Park "Uncle Ronnie's Park" and they had handfuls of tickets for the carousel and train. His friends know that he was always happy to help anyone in need. He was also an avid animal lover, and he never met a dog he didn’t like OR that didn’t like him! Ron is survived by his mother, Marcia Postman (Martin Postman (deceased), brother Joseph (Lois Olund), brother Stevee, and sister Sandy (Yannis Antoniadis (deceased), as well as nieces Rachael Postman (Ethan Beckley) and Jenna Antoniades, nephews Jacob Postman (Jenna Moser) and Tony Antoniades, and great niece Stella Beckley. He is also survived by his loving dog Bert.
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David Lawrence Shreve
Class of 1971
January 31, 1953 – May 26, 2024
David Lawrence Shreve, 71, beloved husband of Johanna Elizabeth (Saunders) Shreve; devoted father of Brittany, grandsons Brandon Monger, Antonio, Antwan, Adam, and Timothy Hill; granddaughters Teeka Duplessis, Jy'zayah, Malia, Nyla, Davinia passed away peacefully on May 26, 2024, after battling Parkinson's disease. David’s ashes will be scattered at a later date.
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Larry Wayne Spitzer
Class of 1966
September 23, 1948 – March 11, 2024
Larry Wayne Spitzer, 75, of Pawleys Island, SC, passed away peacefully at his home on March 11, 2024, holding hands with the two people he loved the most, his wife, Donna, and daughter, Chloe. Larry was born in Washington, D.C., to Walter Glenn Spitzer and Zoie Elizabeth Bledsoe Spitzer, on September 23, 1948. He spent his childhood in Montgomery County, Maryland, attending Albert Einstein High School. He earned a bachelor’s degree from Southern Methodist University. He was a proud veteran of the United States Marines Corps, serving in the Vietnam War. He spent his career in construction and was a talented builder and craftsman. He even designed and built the family’s home and numerous items for his daughter’s classroom. He was a sports fan, golfer, motorcycle enthusiast, avid movie fan and music lover, and a collector of various items of interest. He is survived by his wife of 39 years, Donna (Bowling); his daughter, Chloe; sister, Ava Allen of Columbia, SC; various extended family; and his dog, Candy. He was preceded in death by his father, Walter Spitzer, and mother Zoie Spitzer. He will be remembered as a devoted and loving husband, father, and friend. He was generous and fun loving and will be greatly missed by his family and many friends. Condolences may be made at www.burroughsfh.com
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Christine Ann Clark Stone
Class of 1971
July 17, 1952 – October 19, 2023
Chris Stone Clark, born July 17, 1952, crossed over peacefully and comfortably surrounded by her family on October 19, 2023. Chris was an avid horse woman and lover of animals. She was quick-witted and loved to talk and make friends with just about anyone. She was crafty and loved making things to sell at the flea market with her husband or to make as gifts for her family and friends. She loved tie-dyed shirts, her hair dyed, and her amazing vibrant colored nails that she would do herself. She also loved her big yellow truck; you couldn’t miss it and she knew it. She was the foundation and glue that kept this family together, we hope that glue never loses its grip. We also include all her friends who are her family as well, there are so many to mention, you know who you are. She was preceded in death by her brother, James Clark, her father Donald R. Clark, her mother Lily Clark, and her husband Raymond “Dool” Stone. She is survived by her son Blaine McGrath, his wife Kelly, and their two children Aidan and Murphy. Her daughter Amy Morgan, her husband James, and their two children Christina and Faith. Her daughter Angela Shelly, her husband Paul, and their four children Brianna (w/Bryant), Cassie (w/Mark), R.J., and Harley. Her daughter Samantha Elliott and her family. Her daughter Tiffany Funk, her fiancé Steven and their two children Rylee and Kinlee. And her two great grandchildren Reagan and Bryant, Jr.
From Lon Blair (’70): Chris lived in Middletown MD. She was married to “Dool” who passed away several years ago. Chris had a lot of animals at her house and had horses at a barn that she rented. She loved her horses. She had two children from a previous marriage to AEHS grad Frank McGrath (’70). She also did crafts, and I bought a couple of spectacular crafts from her. Chris was really talented and will be sorely missed.
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Steve Theodore
Class of 1970
January 10, 1952 – December 16, 2023
Steven Charles Theodore, 71, died peacefully on December 16, 2023, in Jacksonville, Florida, after a battle with cancer. He is survived by his loving wife of 51 years, Julie; by sisters Gretchen Wilson of Durango, CO, and Gwen Wilhelm of Silver Spring, MD; and by aunts, cousins, nieces, nephews, and grand nephews. Steve was born January 10, 1952, in Washington, DC, to Josephine and Peter Theodore. He grew up in Wheaton, MD, and along with his twin sister Gwen, graduated from Einstein High School and the University of Maryland. It was at UM that he met his wife, Julie, while sharing a piano in a music education class. He obtained his bachelor’s degree in music education at the University of Maryland. He began playing with local bands as a trumpet player in junior high school, performing for teen clubs, church dances, and Battles of the Bands. However, he soon followed in his father’s footsteps as a professional electric and acoustic bass player in the Gene Donati Band. His work with Donati took him to engagements in over 40 states where the band played for political conventions, corporate functions, and charitable events, including playing at the White House for presidents from Jimmy Carter to George W. Bush. Additionally, Steve taught instrumental music for 30 years for Prince George’s County MD public schools. He retired while assigned to Bowie High School where he spent 14 years developing skills in young musicians in the band and orchestra programs. He loved seeing some of his students move on to their own careers in music and education, and greatly enjoyed those who kept in touch well into adulthood. After living in Bowie, MD for 40 years, Steve and his wife moved to Ocean City, NJ, where Steve’s family vacationed while he was growing up. It was also where he and his wife honeymooned in 1972, the beginning of a life-long love affair with the town. When Covid hit New Jersey, they decided to move farther south, first to a suburb of Charleston, SC, and finally to Jacksonville, FL where they have lived the last three years. Steve was not only a performing musician, but he was also an avid listener. First in the DC area, then all around Jacksonville, he delighted in the many venues for both classical and jazz, and relished all the old rock bands that came through the Jacksonville area on their 50th anniversary tours. He and his wife also enjoyed travel, particularly by cruise ship, and were fortunate to visit ports from Antarctica to over the Arctic Circle, and around the world from Dubai to Singapore to Beijing. Steve will be missed by all who knew him. His was a kind and gentle heart; he was simply a decent man. Contributions in his memory may be made to The Nature Conservancy or to a charity of your choice.
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Mark Charles Walton
Class of 1970
October 24, 1952 – January 30, 2024
Mark Charles Walton, 71, of Chester, VA passed away peacefully, surrounded by family and friends on 30 Jan 2024 after a brief illness. He is predeceased by his parents Harry and France Walton. He is survived by sisters Colette Gailliot, Monique Walton and brother Gregg, many special cousins, and his Beloved, Valeria Murphy (babydoll). A special thank you goes out to all those who loved and supported Mark during his illness, especially his medical angel. Born in Washington, DC in 1952, raised in Kensington, MD and Frankfurt, Germany. Mark graduated from The Catholic University of America in Washington, DC with a degree in Music Education. He joined the Air Force ROTC and his passion for flying "took off" from there. During his tenure in the Air Force Mark flew the F-111's and was selected for the prestigious AF's Fighter Weapons School. In 1986 Mark lead the overall planning for Operation Eldorado Canyon, the longest aerial strike mission from Europe since WW II, and a decisive blow against terrorism. Returning to the United States, Mark joined the Virginia Air National Guard flying the A7 and F16 aircraft and flying combat missions in Iraq. Mark finished his military career as a Lieutenant Colonel serving his country for over 21 years. After leaving the Air Force, Mark went on to fly for Northwest Airlines (now Delta) and retired as a Captain with over 30 years of service. On his final flight, loved ones were among his passengers. Mark played trombone throughout his life, from high school to studying with John Marsalis at The Catholic University of America, to playing in the brass section of a DC area popular cover band in the 70's, Fancy Colours. While stationed in England, Mark played trombone in the Oxford Symphony Orchestra. He was even known to carry his trombone mouthpiece to practice for church band on his commercial flights (much to the entertainment and dismay of those around him). He kept his "chops" in shape to play for Easter and Christmas masses at his local parish, St. Michael's in Richmond until he gave up his Trombone to a special person to carry on for him. Mark was like that. Generous, caring and loving to his family and the tremendous family of friends he was blessed with over the course of his life.
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Fred Kardell
Class of 1971
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Edward “Rodie” Phillips
Class of 1971
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Craig Wolfe
Class of 1970
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