Denise Rannou Kern, 86, of Port Washington, died on May 5, 2008. Denise was predeceased by her mother Marie Rannou Ciabattini; her stepfather Fred Ciabattini; her husband Elston Kern; and her uncles, Louis, Paul and John. She is survived by her cousins, Renee Soussi, Sandra Paolicelli and Yvette Rannou. Arrangements were made by the Austin F. Knowles Funeral Home, Port Washington. Mass of Christian Burial celebrated at St. Peter of Alcantara RC Church. Interment in France. Donations in her memory may be made to Susan G. Komen for the Cure, 5005 LBJ Freeway, Suite 250, Dallas, TX 75244.

Rudolph "Rudy" T. Hotarek, 91, of Port Washington, died on June 7, 2008 after a prolonged illness. Rudy was predeceased by his wife of 60 years, Regina Jamison. He is survived by his children, Gail Dwyer (Edward), Brian (Christine), Regina, Robert (Joan) and Christine Shepherd (Scott); 11 grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren.

Rudy was a highly decorated WWII veteran, receiving two Purple Hearts for wounds sustained in combat and the Bronze Star for valor. He was one of the few decorated WWII veterans of both the European and Asian campaigns.

Rudy ran his own incentive marketing firm for 30 years, where he worked until his retirement at age 80. He was co-founder and former president of the Port Youth Activities. Rudy was an instrumental force in the St. Ignatius Retreat Program for over 20 years and was also an active member of St. Peter of Alcantara RC Church since 1953. He served many years on the board of governors at Plandome Country Club where he enjoyed his hours on the golf course and cultivated many of his closest friendships.

Arrangements were made by the Austin F. Knowles Funeral Home, Port Washington. Mass of Christian Burial celebrated at St. Peter of Alcantara RC Church on June 10. Interment Nassau Knolls Cemetery. Donations in his memory to: St. Francis Hospital, 100 Port Washington Blvd., Roslyn, NY 11576 or Good Shepherd Hospice, 528 Mineola Ave., Carle Place, NY 11514 would be greatly appreciated.