Kamel Robert Hassan, 89, passed away on January 22, 2026, after a brief stay at the Hospice at the Fisher Home in Amherst, MA.

A lifelong resident of Amherst, Bob attended Williston Academy in Easthampton, MA and was a proud 1958 graduate of The College of the Holy Cross in Worcester, MA, as evidenced by the vast amount of purple and white clothing he accumulated, wore, and gave as gifts for most of his life. After graduation, Bob spent a year on active duty in the United States Army Reserve.

Most of Bob’s working career, over 50 years, was spent as the owner-manager of Kamel Hassan’s Barn in Amherst. Bob gradually took the business over from his parents, Kamel and Margaret Hassan.

During his decades of running the store, Bob worked with Jamie Mullins of Amherst and had a close, nurturing relationship with Jamie and his sister, Amy. Bob planned for Jamie to take over the business when Bob retired. Jamie died unexpectedly in 2009 and the time after his passing was a difficult period in Bob’s life.

Bob enjoyed golf and was president of the Amherst Golf Club in 1975 and 1976. He enjoyed music, mostly the jazz of his youth. Among his favorite musicians were Louis Armstrong, Louis Prima, and Eddie Condon. Bob liked to travel and favorite destinations were Cape Cod, Las Vegas, and Dataw, South Carolina. For the last ten years of his life, Bob spent most of his time in Newport, Vermont and enjoyed the natural beauty offered by the shores of Lake Memphremagog and the surrounding area.

Bob is survived by his sister Margaret of Richmond, VA and his brother Michael of Sarasota, FL. Bob also leaves behind many nieces and nephews and grandnieces and grandnephews, and close friends, too many to list here. He will live on in their hearts as well as in those of all who knew him.

A “Celebration of Life” event will be held at the Amherst Golf Club at 2:00 pm on May 9, 2026.

Charles A. Krohn, 88, died on January 8th, 2026 in Panama City Beach, Florida. The cause of death was cancer. He authored many articles about defense matters and wrote an acclaimed book about his experiences during the Vietnam War.

Mr. Krohn was born in Saginaw, Michigan on March 3, 1937, the fourth son of Raymond and Henrietta Krohn. Now in a state of urban decay, Saginaw boomed during the lumbering era of the late 1800s, and then received another boost when it became a manufacturing center, corresponding with the rise of the automobile industry in Michigan. The manufacturing boom of World War II survived until the early 1960s leaving behind an era of prosperity and optimism. The family owned and operated department stores.

Mr. Krohn was raised in Saginaw, leaving in 1953 to attend Williston Academy in Easthampton, Massachusetts. He was graduated from the University of Michigan in 1959, followed by a brief stint at Stanford Law School.

From his early days, Mr. Krohn showed a knack for things military, even posting map pins reflecting the location of his oldest brother Jim, then an Army sergeant serving in Europe during World War II. During the Korean War Mr. Krohn sent food parcels overseas to soldiers at the front, many who responded with letters of appreciation, often at the basic level of literacy. These letters were saved among his most important papers.

Mr. Krohn served two years in the Army, 1961-63, fulfilling an ROTC obligation. Most of this time was spent in South Korea, where he commanded a small advisory detachment at an isolated site near Uijongbu, now a suburb of Seoul. He often said this was the most maturing experience of his life.

Still hoping to find a career as a military writer, after leaving the Army he worked for the Flint (MI) Journal and United Press International in Chicago. Disappointed that UPI was slow to send him to Vietnam as a reporter, he accepted an invitation in 1967 to return to the Army as the public affairs officer of the 1st Cavalry Division (Airmobile). After eight months he was unexpectedly invited to become the intelligence officer of an infantry battalion. His experiences with the infantry led to a book about the battalion’s exploits during Tet ’68.

The first version of the book, The Lost Battalion, was published to wide acclaim by Praeger in 1993, followed by an updated version published by the Naval Institute Press in 2008. A third version was published in 2009 by Simon & Schuster.

Being surrounded and escaping from a North Vietnam Army regiment influenced his decision to stay in the Army. Until his death, Mr. Krohn stayed bonded with those who shared his experiences in Vietnam.

Before returning to Vietnam in 1970 for a second tour, he married Jeannie (nee McLendon) whom he met at Fort Benning, Georgia while attending the Infantry Officers Advance Course. After Vietnam he served in various assignments in Germany and the United States, until his retirement as a lieutenant colonel in 1984.

Mr. Krohn’s career suffered an apparent setback when he was relieved of his responsibilities in the Pentagon in 1980 for transmitting to Army newspapers worldwide a medical article about circumcision, then considered a “taboo” word, at least in the view of his superior. Somewhat dejected, he was offered a position as speechwriter to the Army’s deputy chief of staff for personnel, the legendary General Max Thurman, father of the “Be All You Can Be” campaign. Instead of stepping back one step, his career took a giant leap forward.

His last active duty assignment was special assistant to the late General Richard G. Stilwell, then deputy undersecretary of defense for policy. After their respective retirements, the two operated a business together. General Stilwell was closely connected to President Reagan, CIA director Casey and Defense Secretary Weinberger.

During the last few years of his post-Army life, Mr. Krohn was a defense consultant and wrote often on military affairs for various publications. When George W. Bush was elected President in 2000, he named Thomas E. White as Army Secretary. Mr. White invited Mr. Krohn to return to the Army as the deputy chief of public affairs. But when Mr. White was fired by Defense Secretary Rumsfeld, Mr. Krohn realized he faced a dim future in the Pentagon. He volunteered to serve in Baghdad for a few months, at age 67 perhaps the oldest person then serving in the Green Zone.

After resigning his Army position, Mr. Krohn was invited by the University of Michigan to return to Ann Arbor as a visiting professor of journalism. After teaching for two semesters, he returned to the Washington, DC area and accepted a position with the American Battle Monuments Commission as deputy director for public affairs. His mission was to encourage more Americans to visit the nation’s 24 overseas military cemeteries.

Krohn often described himself as a cat fancier, smoker of fine cigars and consumer of good whiskey. His favorite hobby was reading history and watching Mrs. Krohn garden. He wished to be remembered, not as a retired soldier, but as a proponent of a strong national defense. While not rising to the highest echelons of responsibility, Mr. Krohn enjoyed the respect of his family and peers.

Mr. Krohn is survived by his wife; four sons, Cyrus, Joshua, and twins Clay and Alex; a daughter-in-law, Jennifer Krohn; a partner, Jennifer Martindale and son Zander; five grandsons, Maxwell, Oliver, Tristan, Sawyer, and Holden; and a granddaughter, Marjorie.

Philip Stuart Fisher, 85, an extraordinary man whose life was a true performance, completed his final scene early Tuesday morning, November 4, 2025. He passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family in Houston, TX, after a life lived with profound purpose and an unwavering belief that there were no coincidences, only “God Winks” that guided every meaningful moment.

He was a celebrated wordsmith, passionate educator, accomplished actor, and beloved family man.

Born and raised in Worcester, MA, Philip harbored a lifelong passion for the dramatic arts that would define his remarkable career. A true poet from a young age, he published a book of poems at just 12 years of age, foreshadowing a life dedicated to the power and beauty of language. He honed his craft at the prestigious American Academy of Dramatic Arts in New York City (Class of 1962), earned his BA in English from the University of Massachusetts Amherst (Class of 1968), and achieved an MFA in Theatre from Boston University School of Fine and Applied Arts (Class of 1970).

Philip’s illustrious acting career saw him perform Off-Broadway in New York, appear in 20 featured television roles, and become a fixture in the vibrant Houston theater scene. He captivated audiences in over 44 roles at the Alley Theatre, as well as multiple productions at Theatre Under the Stars (TUTS) and Stages Repertory Theatre.

Beyond the stage, Philip was a devoted educator. He taught at the University of Houston (Downtown and Clear Lake), Houston Community College, North Harris County Community College, Rice University, and San Jacinto Community College. He earned multiple “Who’s Who in American Teachers” recognitions and left a profound impact on thousands of students—shaping not only their communication skills but also their confidence and worldview.

As a gifted communicator and consultant, Philip inspired individuals and organizations in public speaking, interpersonal skills, voice and diction, and acting. He coached speech teams to local, regional, and national awards. Even during a detour into insurance sales with Transamerica, he achieved Million Dollar Round Table membership, a testament to his innate ability to connect and persuade.

Philip, often affectionately known as Phil, Poppy, or Dr. Fisher, wore many hats and gave his whole self to each one. He was a performer in every sense—not just on stage, but in the everyday theater of life. He embodied a generous spirit, once featured in the Houston Chronicle for picking up random riders in the HOV lane, eager to share conversations and connect with diverse individuals on his journey downtown. He was renowned for his insightful acronyms, designed to make complex ideas memorable and practical.

A true dreamer, his life was a masterclass in communication, kindness, and connection.

Philip was preceded in death by his parents, Julius B. Fisher and Rose Mandell Fisher, and his siblings, Lois Seder and Conrad Fisher.

He is survived by his loving wife, Susan Fisher; his cherished daughters, Kimberly Fisher Roth (David), Karen Lynne Fisher (Kim Cash), and Valerie Tinklepaugh Hairston (EJ Hairston); and his grandchildren, Julia Roth Castleberry (Robert), Spencer Harrison Roth, and Karli Rose Fisher.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the physicians and nursing staff at MD Anderson Hospital and At Your Side Caregivers for the compassionate care shown to Philip in his final days.

A celebration of Philip’s life will be held in the new year. All who wish to share a story, acronym, or pronunciation in Phil’s honor are warmly invited. If you have a great story or memory, please let us know so we can compile them for our family to have and hold.

So in his spirit, hug someone like you’re reminding them they matter, hold open the door — yes, literally for a stranger and metaphorically for joy — savor the dessert (especially ice cream) like it’s the last sweet word in a long poem, and say yes to the event you’ve been avoiding like it’s a chapter waiting to be written. Because as Phil would say, “Life is for living.” Let’s live each of our 525,600 minutes to the fullest.

William Burrows “Bill” Harmon, 86, of Suffield, CT, and Westfield, MA, passed away peacefully on October 8, 2025, surrounded by family.

Born on August 17, 1939, in Springfield, Massachusetts, Bill was the son of Sybil Morton Snow and Austin Ripley Harmon. He graduated from Williston Academy in 1957 and went on to attend Cornell University before completing his degree at the University of Massachusetts in 1965. His academic journey laid the foundation for a long and respected career as a Certified Public Accountant.

Bill proudly served his country in the U.S. Army from 1959 to 1962, achieving the rank of Specialist Fourth Class while stationed in Korea. He spoke often of his experiences in the DMZ, and his time in the military instilled in him a deep sense of duty and discipline that would carry through every aspect of his life.

Bill established his own accounting practice in Westfield, where he served clients with integrity and dedication for several decades until retiring in early 2025. He was an active member of both the National Association of Accountants and the Institute of Management Accountants. Beyond his professional accomplishments, Bill gave generously of his time and expertise to numerous civic and charitable organizations. He held positions of officer and director of several nonprofits throughout Westfield, including the Chamber of Commerce, Noble Hospital, the Boys & Girls Club of Greater Westfield, American Red Cross Westfield Chapter, and the Westfield Industrial Development Finance Authority. He was honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award by the Westfield Chamber of Commerce in 2015.

Bill’s commitment to community was matched only by his devotion to family. He shared over 40 years of marriage with his beloved wife Patricia “Dolly” (Bagge). Through their union, Bill embraced not only their life together but also the four children Pat brought into their marriage.

Bill delighted in spending time at his cherished cottage on Big Pond in Otis and aboard his and “Cap’n Doll’s” boat docked in Essex, CT. A skilled carpenter with a passion for small construction projects, Bill could often be found building or renovating – his lake house, basement, or a writing cottage for his “Patty.” He was an avid cruise traveler, making countless trips with various family members to Caribbean and European ports. Affectionately known as “Harmon” by his grandchildren, Bill found immense joy in their company. Whether attending family get-togethers or boating with the crew to Block Island, he treasured every opportunity to be part of their lives.

Bill was predeceased by his wife, Patricia Harmon, and his sister, Elizabeth Leshure. He is survived by his daughters Julie Harmon of Groveland, MA, and Laurie Harmon (Andrew Koontz) of Princeton, NJ; his brother Thomas Harmon (Karen) of Eastham, MA; stepchildren Brenda LeDuc and John Parker, Jr., of Southwick, Karen Parker of Springfield, and Heidi Colonna (Alfred) of Westfield; grandchildren Logan and Savannah LeDuc; Abby, Alaina, John, and Axel Parker; Desmond Marino, Kevin O’Brien, and AJ Colonna, as well as many nieces and nephews.

Bill leaves behind a legacy defined by service – to country, community, profession, and most importantly, to family. May his memory bring comfort to those who knew him, and continue to inspire acts of kindness and dedication for generations to come.

Calling hours will be held on Friday, October 17, 2025, from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Southwick Forastiere Funeral Home, 624 College Highway, Southwick, MA. A Graveside Service will be held on Saturday, October 18, 2025, at 10:30 AM at Longmeadow Cemetery, 61 Williams Street, followed by a Celebration of Life.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Boys & Girls Club of Greater Westfield, 28 West Silver Street, PO Box 128, Westfield, MA 01086.

David Alan Tarshus was born in Northampton, Massachusetts on August 29, 1937 to Milton and Bernice Tarshus. His brother, Richard F. Tarshus and sister, Rhoda Michelman, predeceased him.

He graduated from Northampton High School in 1956 and attended Williston Academy and Holyoke Community College. He was an enthusiast of big band swing music and enjoyed watching old classic movies. He had the good fortune of touring Paramount Pictures and watching Cecil B. DeMille, directing an Academy Award best picture, the 1952 movie “The Greatest Show on Earth.”

David was president (in the family business) of the Pioneer Valley Ginger Ale Incorporated of Florence, Massachusetts. The business was proud to work with “Gush” Valenta, in the creation of the Lassie League and sponsored Lassie League teams in Northampton. He worked as a part time elevator operator at 78 Main Street and 25 Main Street in Northampton for seventeen years. He was a resident of Michael’s House since 2004.

David was a member of the B’nai Israel Congregation in Northampton and he was also a member of the Florence Civic and Business Association and the American Bottlers Association.

He is survived by his niece Mara Michelman of Northampton.

A Burial will take place on Thursday October 9, 2025 at 2:30pm at the B’Nai Israel Cemetery, 476 N. King Street, Northampton MA.