Scheyer Family Kid Captain Program

Lois Mae Hitzel (née Stell) passed away peacefully on March 1, 2026, at the age of 95. Born on August 16, 1930, she was the daughter of the late Walter and Louise Stell (née Schneeberger). She lived a long life centered on family. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Robert T. Hitzel, who passed away in 2012. She is survived by her children: Kathy Dyer (Scott), Robert T. Hitzel Jr., Laury Scheyer (Jim), and Patty Zaino (Joe). She was a proud grandmother to Ryan Minter, Amy Minter, David Minter (Sylvia), Jenifer Resnick (Danny), Brooke Scheyer (Ryan), Jon Scheyer (Marcelle), Michael Zaino (Meaghan), Joey Zaino, and Nikki Hohlbein (Grant). She was also blessed with many great-grandchildren: Bjorn, Blake, Maya, Romeo, Seven, Sky, Noa, Jett, James, Luke, Jake, Tyler, Zoey, Lucy, and Brooks. She is further survived by loving nieces, nephews, and cousins. From humble beginnings, Lois built a close and connected family through her resilience, warmth, and steady optimism. She had a natural exuberance, was quick to laugh, and was determined to see the good in people. She remained young at heart throughout her life. Her home was always open — to extra guests, extra laughter, and extra fun. Birthdays and holidays were thoughtfully planned and often themed. Christmas favorites included Dancing with the Family, the Family Talent Show, and Who Wants to Be a Millionaire — and Survivor Easter has gone down in family history as one of her most unforgettable creations. She also made the everyday moments count. “Nana sleepovers” were a favorite tradition, and she was a familiar face on the sidelines at games, recitals, and performances. In big ways and small, she showed up for people she loved. She leaves behind a family deeply connected by laughter, tradition, and unconditional love. In lieu of flowers, donations in her memory may be made to the Scheyer Family Kid Captain Fund (https://www.every.org/scheyer-family-kid-captain-program/f/lois-hitzel-memorial).

Walter was inspired by the idea of supporting Duke Children's Hospital and basketball, especially with the enthusiastic backing of the Cameron Crazies. This program offers recreational opportunities to children undergoing treatment, celebrating their courage. Jana recently witnessed this firsthand when a Kid Captain was honored for his bravery and strength at a Duke basketball game, cheered on by the Crazies. -- Walter Koepler Blackwell April 9, 1940 – January 3, 2026 Walter Koepler Blackwell, 85, passed away on January 3, 2026, surrounded by his family. Born in Alexandria, Virginia, Walter’s life journey took him from the shores of Fort Lauderdale to Daytona Beach, Waynesville, NC, and ultimately Louisville, KY. He was a proud member of the Lauderdale Yacht Club, a dedicated member of the Florida Bar for over 50 years, and the adored patriarch of his family. Walter graduated from Duke University and the University of Miami Law School, where he cultivated a lifelong love of learning that he instilled in family. He enjoyed following Duke Basketball, spending time on the beach, and hiking in the Smokey Mountains. He had a great sense of humor and left his family with many wonderful memories. He enjoyed poker nights, cherished his whippets, and found joy in the simple pleasures of life. His beloved dog, Mystic, was always by his side. Walter leaves behind his devoted wife of 64 years, Jewel G. Blackwell; daughters Jana Blackwell, Christine Marrero (Jorge), and Shannon Budnick (Scott); five grandchildren: Calla Lykins (Matthew), Chandler Cissel, Mallory Marrero, Dillon Budnick, and Koepler Budnick, and one great-grandchild, Lillie Lykins. He was preceded in death by loved ones who now welcome him home. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Scheyer Family Kid Captain Program in Walter’s memory.