Obituaries
Thor J. Foss, 72
January 26, 2017
Thor J. Foss, 72, of Ephrata passed away Thursday, January 26, 2017 at home. He was the son of the late Frank and Betty (Hopla) Foss. Thor grew up in Keyport, New Jersey.
Thor worked for US Airways as a ticket agent for many years in Pittsburgh, PA. He moved to Ephrata in 2002 after his retirement from the airline. He attended Our Mother Of Perpetual Help Church, where he volunteered by playing the organ at Mass. Thor was a talented pianist, loved to play, and entertained at several nursing homes in the area. Thor also volunteered for many years at the Welcome Center in Lititz. Along with his wife, Patty, Thor was an avid collector of ice cream memorabilia. and they were active members of the Ice Screamers, serving on the publicity committee and producing the monthly newsletter.
In addition to his wife, Patricia (McEwen) Foss, Thor is survived by his sisters-in law and brothers-in-law, Kathleen Mozolic (Joseph) of Brick, New Jersey, Mary Valenti (Alan) of Centennial, Colorado, Malcolm McEwen of Galloway, New Jersey, Maureen McEwen of Lansdale, Pennsylvania, Frances Sterbenz (Paul) of Milford, New Jersey, Margaret Gensel (William) of Somerdale, New Jersey and many nieces and nephews. Thor was preceded in death by his brother, Scott Foss.
Graveside services will be held at 11:00AM on Saturday, February 4, 2014 at Memory Gardens, 319 Wabash Rd, Ephrata, PA 17522 with Father McLaughlin officiating. In lieu of flowers, contributions in Thor’s memory may be made to the American Kidney Fund, 11921 Rockville Pike, Suite 300, Rockville, MD 20852.
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Condolences to the Family
March 14, 2017
I met Thor 54 years ago when he came to play the piano for my Sunday School class at St. John’s UMC in Hazlet, Nj. We formed a flasting friendship. When he moved to Pa. and returned to NJ to visit his mom and Patty’s family they often stopped to visit my mom and me. When he met Patty he told us how he had met a girl who was “cute as a button” and we knew it was love. They shared a beautiful marriage. I admired Thor’s stamina and determination as his own health began to fail and how he visited Patty in the nursing home daily and walked with her as they had always done. He was a beautiful person and will always be remembered. He is at peace now and I pray for Patty. I’m grateful to the legal firm who is handling Thor’s estate as it was they who notified me of his death just yesterday. Alice Hushour
March 01, 2017
I knew Thor when I was high school age, as we both attended St. John’s Methodist Church in Hazlet, NJ. He was always kind and smiling and a great musician, playing the organ and piano. Ironically we both ended up in the airline business and I saw he and Patty a couple of times when they were visiting Florida, where my family moved. My parents would visit Thor and Patty on their motor home trips and after my parents passed away, I wrote to him to tell him the sad news and he and I became “pen pals”. He was a sweet man and I know he is at peace and with our heavenly Father. I’m glad I had those few years to reconnect with him and send Patty and all the family my sincere condolences. Louise Proudfoot Layland
February 02, 2017
What a wonderful man he was. I use to drive him to church with Patty when they were without their car, it was so beautiful to see how much they loved each other .I always enjoyed seeing him playing the organ and he would always make a point to wave to me.I am very greatful I was able to meet him and will miss him very much
February 02, 2017
Originally met Thor and Patty while volunteering at Lititz Welcome Center. Then they showed up at a Red Rose Quilters Guild meeting. Thor wanted to learn how to quilt! I gave him private lessons as Patty’s Alzheimers got worse and she was moved to nursing home. We made a table topper, Alzheimers quilt, several charity quilts, pillowcases for cancer children at Hershey and participated in guild’s challenge. He was always smiling, curious and willing to try new things. Glad he is at peace with his Father, but I will miss him. Vicki Bowman
February 02, 2017
Landis Homes residents were blessed by Thor’s big smile, bright eyes and musical talents. He volunteered before visiting his beloved Patty or on the way home after helping with her meal. Memory loss residents especially enjoyed singing along — and dancing! — whenever he played piano. When he didn’t appear last Wednesday and again didn’t answer the phone Thursday, we were quite concerned. It was difficult having our fears confirmed. Our time with him was far too brief and we miss him. He was known and loved by God and is now safely Home. Family, we hope you feel our love and concern for you too. We pray for strength and wisdom as you pick up multiple tasks and decisionsin the next weeks. If there’s any way we can help you, please let us know. Sue Shirk, Director of Volunteer Services, Landis Homes.
February 02, 2017
Thor was the secretary of our senior group. He went on many trips with us and was very kind and friendly. He always had a smile on his face. He will be greatly missed.
Saint Anne-Neumann Seniors
February 02, 2017
Thor you were a great guy, friend to all at Pfi, rest in peace, ice cream guy, sorry to see you go
February 01, 2017
Thor and Patty used to visit me when I worked at Wilbur, giving me a hug and a kiss every time. They were always holding hands, always looking at each other like they had JUST fallen in love. Two of the nicest people you could ever hope to know. When I left Wilbur, Thor continued to contact me via email, keeping me up-to-date on Patty’s health and what he was doing to fill his days. When I heard of his passing, through the tears I asked God for a favor: “Please, God, give Thor his wings right away–he’s one of your best creations.” I miss him already.
February 01, 2017
Oh how sad I was to read of his death in the paper. Thor and I knew each other only by walking. I drive a small car and noticed how he and his wife would walk on my drive to and from work. One day I stopped and said hello and each time from that point on I had a chance to speak with them – and then just him when his wife was too ill to join him. I will miss him and his big smile. Blessings to you and the family.
Nancy Chapman
February 01, 2017
Thor you will be greately missed, it has been such a pleasure knowing you over the years. You were always such a ray of sunshine to us. Rest in Peace.
Your Davita Family
January 31, 2017
Will be missed by all your friends at Millers Smorgasbord
January 31, 2017
Thor’s cheery demeanor and piano playing touched the lives of so many here at Landis Homes. Thor was one of those guy’s who the minute he walked into a room, you knew everything was going to be ok. What a treat it was to watch not only his playing blossom over time, but his relationhsip with those he played the piano for. What an honor it was to know this man. – Laura Glick
January 31, 2017
Thor so blessed us at Landis Homes by sharing his gift of piano playing here……he always had a smile for us as well. We will miss him….we will miss the music he brought to our lives. Blessings and comfort to all who loved him. ~Barbara Sauder, receptionist at Landis Homes.
January 31, 2017
I am not able to be at the burial service sue to a prior engagement but, Thank you Foss & McEwen family for sharing Thor with us here at Landis Homes. He was such a delight to have as a volunteer and friend. In the short amount of time he was here playing piano and organ, he touched so many people and brought smiles and joy to our residents through music. Thor brought a smile to my face everytime he stepped into our Volunteer Office for a cup of coffee. He would chat with me about his other volunteer opportunities and his visits with his beloved Patty.
My heart was indeed heavy when I found out that he had passed, but after some time, I was able to feel peace because I know that he is at rest and enjoying the celestial music with our Creator.
You are already missed here at Landis Homes Thor! Blessings to the family as you remember wonderful Thor.
Moniqua Acosta
Landis Home – Volunteer Office
January 31, 2017
Us Ice Screamers will miss that smile! Such a sweet good person! Heaven has gained a special person! Enjoy many ice cream sundays and banana splits with your Ice Screamer friends in heaven. Rest In Peace my Friend. Love Ya.
Heather and Frank Tomasello
- Services
- Saturday, February 04, 2017
- 11:00 AM
- Memory Gardens
- 319 Wabash Rd
- Ephrata, PA
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