Living Tribute Ceremony
On the morning of October 19, 2023, a Tree Dedication Ceremony at the Cape May Terminal of the Cape May-Lewes Ferry was held in honor of four beloved team members who we lost while still employed with us at the Delaware River & Bay Authority, the operator of the Ferry. Four Sweetbay Magnolia trees were planted in each of their names outside the terminal with plaques at each in Memorium. These new trees were specially selected to complement the one previously dedicated to Virginia Beagle, another beloved team member lost in 2017. These DRBA employees played a vital role in their departments. They showed dedication and loyalty to the Authority over their many years of employment. They will all be missed and never forgotten.
Remembrances
Virginia Beagle (1953-2017) was born in Cape May Court House and was a lifelong area resident. She was a dedicated worker, having been employed with the Cape May-Lewes Ferry for 16 years, from 2002 as a Part-Time Food Worker to a promotion to Ordinary Seaman in 2012. Virginia also enjoyed playing computer games on her tablet, gardening, arts and crafts, and baking.
Michael Sparks (1961-2020) was hired in 2005 as 3rd Assistant Engineer and later promoted to 1st Assistant Engineer; for 18 years, he played a vital role in the marine department. Michael was not only a colleague but also a friend to many. A co-worker described him as “a big child in a man’s body” during a speech at the ceremony.
Sandra Daniels (1964-2023) was a friend, co-worker, and great asset to the Ferry’s food and retail team. In 2015, Sandy was hired as the Special Event Manager at the Ferry and was extremely passionate. Most importantly, Sandy knew how to enjoy life and was a fun-loving spirit who touched many lives.
Rickey Brown (1953-2023) was born in Sacramento, California. Rickey joined the United States Coast Guard during the Vietnam era and attended electronics school in Governor’s Island, New York, later stationed in Cape May. Rickey had worked for the DRBA since 2009 as a Marine Electrician. As shared by one of his co-workers during the memorial, “Rick was an extremely skilled electrician and electronics technician. He was the type of person you always want to have on any type of job as his experience in all trades allowed him to see a clear path forward.”
Joseph Baumgarten (1963-2023) worked as a Maintenance Senior Journeyman since 2015 and spent eight years with the DRBA. Joe was described by his family and friends as “the meaning of the word ‘work’ in every sense possible.” In his free time, Joe enjoyed riding his Harley, going on fishing trips, and supporting his favorite Philadelphia sports teams.
About the Sweetbay Magnolia
The Sweetbay magnolia, also known as the “beaver tree,” is a small tree or shrub with smooth, pale, gray-colored bark. It grows at a moderate rate of 1 to 2 feet per year. Between April and July, they bloom with lemon-scented white flowers about 4-6 inches in diameter. These flowers bloom for 2-3 days, opening in the morning and closing at night. During the winter, a cluster of dark red fruits appears, producing bright red seeds.
