Naval Weather Service Association (NWSA)

 

 NAVAL WEATHER SERVICE ASSOCIATION

An association of Aerographers & Mates,
Meteorologists & Oceanographers

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Donald Milton Pell
Indiana
AERM2c USNR
World War II
Oct 7 1920 to June 5 1945
.
AG1 Edward T. Earhart
Killed 9/11/2001 at the Pentagon

Remembering all those who came before

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Taps

 

The original version of Taps was called Last Post, and was written by Daniel Butterfield in 1801. It was rather lengthy and formal, so in 1862 it was shortened to 24 notes and re-named Taps.

 

Click on the link below to listen and watch the YouTube video by members of the U.S. Navy Band:
 
 
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Died Oct. 27, 1944 South Pacific
In the Service of His Country
AG2 Matthew M. Flocco
Killed 9/11/2001 at the Pentagon
.

 

NWSA Necrology

 

Both Listings Updated through August 2020
(This Listing Only Goes Back a Few Years -- More Names and Possible Corrections Needed.)
 
 

Listing of AGs  and Their Spouses Who Have Passed

Compiled by CDR Earl Gustafson, USN RET


Not Previously Reported in Aerographs

Submitted by LCDR Dennis Ruth, USN (Ret) 



There is HISTORY, LEGECY, and MEMORIES with all those who served and came before, whether they be  Military, Civilian, or Spouse.  You will find, listed by Aerograph edition, some of those who came before us.  This is history worth repeating.

Aerograph Editions:

2005  2006  2007  2008  2009  2010  2011 2012  2013  2014 



CDR James Earl Kerr, USN (Ret)

January 21, 1937 – August 17, 2024

James Earl Kerr, a beloved husband, father, and grandfather, passed away peacefully on August 17, 2024, in Smokey Point, Washington. Born on January 21, 1937, in Port Angeles, Washington, Earl lived a life full of adventure and dedication.

Earl graduated from Joyce High School, earned a degree from Western Washington University and later a Masters degree from the Naval Postgraduate school. After college, he joined the Navy to see the world, a journey that took him to many parts of the world including residing in the Philippines, Spain, and England. He served his country with honor and distinction for 23 years as a meteorologist before retiring from the Navy. Subsequently he worked for Lockheed Martin until he retired.

Earl is survived by his devoted wife of 65 years, Lynne; his sons, Chris and Steven; his daughter, Carolyn; and his cherished grandchildren, Alex, Andrew, Stephanie, Anthony, Adam, and Chloe.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Alzheimer's Association in Earl's memory.  A celebration of life was held on Sunday, October 13.

Earl will be deeply missed by all who knew him. His legacy of love, service, and adventure will live on in the hearts of his family and friends.

Submitted by LCDR Dennis Ruth, USN (Ret)




AGCS Philip D. Duncan, USN (Ret)
December 4, 1937 to July 28, 2024

Philip David Duncan passed away on Sunday, July 28, 2024 at his home. He was born on December 4, 1937 in Columbus County, North Carolina and was the son of the late Lena Bennett and Hardie Duncan.

He is also preceded by his sisters Loreen Tyree and Lila Elhawa and daughter Cynthia Harko.

He is survived by his wife of 37 years, Vinnie Karriker Duncan, son, Matthew Duncan (Katie) of Linwood; daughter – Lena Duncan Hitt, Seven Points, TX; Step-son, Scott Duncan, Gun Barrel City, TX.

Also surviving him are his step-daughters Caroline Arthur (Aaron) (Lillington) and Jessica Kiser (Castle Hayne). Also surviving are his grandchildren Brandon Duncan, Kristin Harko, Bryce Duncan, Wade Duncan, Hannah Arthur and Nathan Arthur and a great-grandson, Kadon Duncan, as well as sister Alice Williams of Whiteville and many nieces and nephews, whom he loved dearly.

Philip was raised on a tobacco farm in Columbus County. He was baptized at age 12 in Lake Waccamaw as a member of Antioch Baptist Church, Whiteville. At age 17, he joined the US Navy. Philip attended the Navy Weather Schools at Lakehurst, New Jersey and became an Aerographer (meteorologist). His Navy career spanned 20 years on 7 ships and included 3 tours with Operation Deep Freeze, Antarctica from 1956-1959. While stationed in Guam (1967-1970) at the Primary Pacific Fleet Strike Weather Unit, Philip was Leading Chief with Special Weather Intelligence.

He retired from the US Navy in October 1973 and returned to the family farm in Columbus County. He was a member of Corriher and the NC Grange and served as a deputy and held state officer positions for many years. In March 1986, Philip was employed by the National Weather Service, headquartered in Raleigh, as a Meteorological Technician, where he prepared weather forecasts for the region. He retired from the Weather Service in March 1999 as the Cooperative Program Manager.

Following his retirement, Philip spent time on the farms in Columbus and Rowan counties and traveling to Naval Weather Service Reunions and Grange functions across the country. He loved the land, was meticulous with “weeding” his garden and enjoyed splitting wood. Philip introduced many folks to one of the American native fruits – pawpaws. Philip was a member of Concordia Lutheran Church, China Grove, where he is remembered by all with his friendly smile and handshake.

The funeral service with military honors was held at Concordia Lutheran Church on Sunday, August 4, 2024. A memorial service was held in Whiteville at Antioch Baptist Church on September 7.

Submitted by wife Vinnie Duncan with the following shared sentiment:


Philip dearly loved his U.S. Navy career and the weather! We were always so glad to attend reunions.


Phil and Vinnie at Reunion 46



AG1 Leonard E. Derk, USN (Ret)
Passed in July at Age 87

Leonard E. Derk, 87, of Missoula, Montana, and formerly of Shamokin. A gravesite ceremony was held at St. Mary’s Cemetery, Coal Township, for family and friends with a friar or deacon from Mother Cabrini Church officiating.



AG1 Robert “Bob” Nicholas Costa, USN (Rel)

February 3, 1938 – September 8, 2024


Robert "Bob" Nicholas Costa, 86, of Fairfield Harbour located in New Bern, NC, passed away on Sunday, September 8, 2024, at home.

 

He was preceded in death by his parents, Nicholas and Clara Costa; wife, Beverley; son, Scott; and his two infant siblings, David and Nancy.

 

Bob is survived by his brother, Thomas and his wife, Emmie, of Windber, PA; sons, Dr. Steven and his wife, Sharon, of Lumberton, NC, Dr. Craig of Bathgate, Scotland, and Christopher and his wife, Holly, of Katy, TX; grandchildren, Jennifer of Sanford, NC, Danielle Pearce of Clayton, NC, Drexel and Weslynn of Katy, TX; and a great-granddaughter, Ava Pearce.

Bob was born in Windber, PA on February 3, 1938. He graduated from Windber High School in 1956. Following graduation, Bob enlisted in the Navy. During his Naval Service, he served on the Admiral's Staff as a meteorologist on the USS Forrestal. He additionally did three tours in Antarctica for project "Deep Freeze." He was honorably discharged in 1964 with the rank of First-Class Petty Officer. Following his military service, he enrolled at the University of Pittsburgh and received a BA in 1969 and a Masters in Library Science in 1971.

 

He began his professional career in 1971 at the Cambria County Library. Serving as director for nine years, Bob and his family relocated to Richmond, VA in 1985, where he served as the director of the Richmond Public Library System until his retirement in 1996.

 

Robert also had a creative side; he received a US Patent in 1992 for "Costa's Rotary Grill," which was designed to cook hot dogs, bratwursts, chicken, and corn evenly to prevent burning of the food. Thousands of the rotary grills were sold through direct mail and retailers. The patent rights were sold to a manufacturer in 2006.


In 2002 Bob and Beverley moved to the Fairfield Harbour Community near New Bern, NC. Bob and Bev enjoyed the social activities associated with life in Fairfield Harbour and were active participants in the yacht club, fishing club, and CERT (Community Emergency Response Team). Bob never really left the Navy working with the local Chapters of the VFW and DAV. Bob and Bev were avid travelers both domestically and internationally.

 

Services will take place in Windber, PA beginning with a viewing on Sunday, September 15, 2024, from 2:00-4:00 PM at the Meek and Dalla Valle Funeral Home, located at 1312 Graham Ave., Windber, PA, 15963. A funeral mass will be held on Monday, September 16th at 11:00 AM at St. Anthony's Church. Interment will follow after the funeral mass at St. Anthony's Cemetery.

 

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Bob's honor to St. Jude's at www.stjude.org or your local veterans' administration.

Submitted by CWO3 Jim Romano, USN (Ret) with the following remembrance:


Bob and his dear wife Beverley were our great friends. He and I met at McMurdo in 1960, during Deep Freeze. Our great friendship lasted all these years and we spent many great vacations together.  Bev was a Kiwi and a lovely lady. They met while he was on Deep Freeze Staff.






AGCM Mark Alan Kalinowski, USN (Ret)

Dec. 11, 1963 - Mar. 14, 2024

Mark Alan Kalinowski passed away on March 14, 2024 in San Diego, California. Visitation and Funeral Services for Mark were provided by Bravo Family Mortuary. Mark was interred at Miramar National Cemetery on Thursday, March 28, 2024.

Submitted by AG1 Steven Smith, USN (Ret) with the following remembrance:


I had the privilege and honor of serving with Mark during my twilight tour in Atsugi, Japan, back in the early 90’s. While my navy career was drawing to its end, Mark’s was just beginning as a young AGC select with less than ten years TIS. Mark was one of those rare individuals who had the “IT” factor. His professionalism, positive attitude, ever present smile, and wry sense of humor made it easy for me to work with him as a friend and fellow forecaster, and then for him, as he became my LCPO prior to his transfer to the USS Tarawa (LHA-1). Regrettably, our paths crossed less frequently as the years passed, but it will never diminish the respect and cherished memories I will forever carry of my friend. Fair winds and following seas shipmate, you were truly one of a kind and will be greatly missed by the many people whose lives you touched as the following heartfelt comments of love and respect attest to:

 

I'm shocked and saddened to hear of Mark's passing - my heart goes out to his family and friends. I had the pleasure of serving with Mark at 3 different commands. He was my Chief on USS Tarawa, then he was my Senior Chief at NPMOD Lemoore, then he was my Master Chief at MET San Diego. In fact, Mark's belief in me played a large part (if not the only part) in my making Chief Petty Officer. Through the good, the bad, and the ugly, Mark was always there for support and friendship. Except for poker night...I can't even count the amount of money I lost to Mark :) Fair winds and following seas my friend and shipmate. You will be sorely missed. ~ Jeff Monson, March 27, 2024


Mark was a phenomenal leader and friend. He was the Chief in the OA Division on Tarawa when I was there and was instrumental in making the Division a success in all endeavors. It was an honor and privilege to have known and worked with him. You will be missed. Fair winds and following seas my friend. ~ Karen Ruppe, March 27, 2024

 

Mr. K was a true inspiration to many generations of sailors and we will carry his legacy with us. Thank you for sharing him with us. ~ Tyrel and Constance, March 26, 2024

 

To an extraordinary mentor & friend: Your impact on the METOC community is everlasting. It [was] an honor to serve with you. We will miss you, Mark. ~ Jake Kenna, March 27, 2024

 

Thank you for decades of service to family and country. It was my highest honor to have served with you. You are sorely missed. RIP, Brother. Anonymous ~ March 25, 2024



YNC Dorothy Jensen Blanchard, USN (Rel)

March 18, 1923 – June 20, 2024

Widow of AGC Earl Harrison Blanchard, USN (Ret) 

In Milltown, nestled by New Jersey's streams

A small-town girl was born with mighty dreams

Dorothy Jensen, in the days of yore

Grew through trials the Great Depression bore

 

The Great Depression's somber grip, she faced with courage bright

In a patriotic home where valor was a guiding light

Her father, a hero of the first World War's fray

Instilled in her a love for country, in every heartfelt way

 

In 1943, as World War's fury did call

Dorothy saw posters, brave and tall

"Join the WAVES," they beckoned, "Your country needs you now!"

With a heart full of service, she took the vow

 

The eldest of six, she shone from the start

Her brilliance a beacon, her mind and her heart

Skipping grades with ease, in school she soared

Top of her class at Hunter College, where ambitions roared

 

A pioneering WAVE among the Navy's esteemed ranks

In the Merchant Shipping Office, she earned her thanks

Monitoring safe routes across the Atlantic's expanse

Ensuring allied ships had a fighting chance

 

In the Pentagon's halls, her prowess known

With generals and admirals, her talents shown

Admirals Burke, Nimitz, Thackrey too

Admired her skills, her loyalty too

 

She worked with generals, secretaries, and more

Her influence felt on history's core

The National Security Act of '47, she saw it unfold

Creating the military that today we uphold

Despite her career, illustrious and bright

Her family remained, her heart's true light

Married to Earl, a naval soul

Together they journeyed, made each other whole


Florence Nightingale, in his final days

She cared for him, in tender ways

And with Linda, her daughter, a bond so strong

In joy and in sorrow, together they'd belong

 

In 2000, with selfless grace

She moved to Albuquerque, to Linda's embrace

Nursing Linda back to health with care

Dorothy's strength, beyond compare

 

Always positive, even when times were tough

Happy with her lot, never needing more stuff

People loved her for her kindness true

Her spirit shone in all she'd do

 

An optimist through thick and thin

With quiet strength, she found within

In times of stress, she stood so tall

A reservoir of calm for one and all

 

Self-reliance was her creed

To lift oneself in times of need

In age and youth, her thoughts did turn

To others first, with love's concern

 

With a love for music, life's finer things she embraced

Playing Moonlight Sonata, Chopin's Nocturnes with grace

A voracious reader, her thirst for knowledge never waned

Her spirit bright, her joy for life always remained

 

On her hundredth birthday, honored as a hero dear

Milltown celebrated her, with pride and cheer

Her WAVE uniform restored, a testament to days of yore

A Living Legend she was proclaimed, her legacy forever to endure

 

Dorothy Jensen Blanchard, a life so richly led

With kindness, strength, and love, in every word she said

A shining example of the American ideal

Her story, her spirit, forever we'll feel.

 

To send flowers to the family in memory of Dorothy Jensen Blanchard, please visit our flower store.


Submitted by Bomi and Linda Blanchard 

with the following remembrance shared by CAPT Al Atwell, USN (Ret):

 

[Dear] Linda and Bomi,

 

God bless you all - In life, you occasionally meet someone that changes your outlook on life. For me it was meeting Doc and Dottie.  Doc’s desk in the Pentagon was about 10 feet from mine, and that led me to meeting Dottie. Seeing her occasionally in the Pentagon led me to meeting the CNO, Admiral “31 Knot Burke” which led me to later serve on a Destroyer, and eventually, teaching at the Naval Academy.

 

When Doc and Dottie were transferred to London I followed them there and when he retired and went to Chapel Hill, North Carolina, I followed them there. I will be 95 years old in about a week and have lots of old age situations to resolve, and if I could have one wish, it would be to continue to follow in the footsteps of leaders and great friends like Dottie and Doc.

 

Most Sincerely,

Al Atwell




AG1 Steven Harvey Shafer Jr., USN (Ret)

Sep. 28, 1941 – Mar. 22, 2024


Steven Harvey Shafer, Jr., 82, passed away on Friday, March 22, 2024 at Kitty Askins Hospice Center. Steve was born in Mason County, Michigan to the late Steven Harvey Shafer, Sr. and Elouise Hasse Shafer on September 28, 1941. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his daughter, Sarah Elizabeth Shafer; sister, Lila Shafer and brother, Neil Shafer.

 

A faithful servant of our country, Steve dedicated twenty-four years of service to the United States Navy. His love of country knew no bounds and was evidenced by the life he lived. After retirement from the US Navy, Steve continued to serve in various capacities through causes including Veteran of Foreign Wars, the American Legion, and Disabled American Veterans.


Working with the United States Postal Service as a clerk, Steve again retired after eighteen years of service.

 

Steve had a fascination for trains and was a master at working with ceramics and model trains. Utilizing his skill and joining with fellow enthusiasts, Steve was a member of the Model Trains Association in Goldsboro.

 

With great faith in Jesus Christ, Steve was a longtime member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter day Saints. His service to others was exemplified in his volunteering with the Soup Kitchen in Goldsboro, a ministry in which he served for many years.

 

Always ready to strike up a conversation, Steve was great at interacting with others. Friends and strangers alike could instantly feel at ease when conversing with him.

For Steve, family was his greatest love. Sharing life together on Earth was a glimpse of eternity, for the love and laughter they shared was indeed a blessing.

 

The family received friends on Friday, March 29, 2024 from 12:00 – 1:00 p.m. at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter day Saints, followed by a service to celebrate his life at 1:00 p.m. in the sanctuary. Interment took place at Wayne Memorial Park.

 

Steve is survived by his wife of 58 years, Sylvia Carol Stevens Shafer; son, Steven H. Shafer III and wife, Heidi of Winston-Salem; daughter, Selena Diann Miracle and husband, Chris of Goldsboro; grandchildren, Matthew R. Shafer and wife, Meghan, Melody C. Shafer, Chance I. Miracle, Benjamin J. Shafer and wife, Courtney, Ceara K. Zamago - Miracle and husband, Jesus, Jenna M. Miracle, Emily C. Shafer and Marissa N. Miracle; and three great-grandchildren, Elliott I. Shafer, Clark A. Shafer and Caleb W. Shafer. He is also survived by his sisters, Julie Wert, Jean Kaphan, Alma Fink and Teresa Shafer; brother, Jim L. Shafer; and several nieces, nephews and cousins he loved very much.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given in his memory to the Community Soup Kitchen of Goldsboro, P.O. Box 1064, Goldsboro, NC 27533.

 

Services are entrusted to Seymour Funeral Home and Cremation Service. Online condolences may be shared with the family at www.seymourfuneralhome.com.

 

Submitted by AG1 Steven Smith, USN (Ret)




LCDR Robert W. Lyons, USN (Ret)
Died 4 May, 2024 at Age 84

Robert W. Lyons died at the age of 84 on 04 May, 2024 in Norfolk, VA.

Bob was born in Orangeburg, South Carolina. He was the son of Woodrow W. and Louise Davis Lyons both of whom preceded him in death. He graduated from Orangeburg High School in 1958 and attended Clemson College for one year. He graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland, in June 1963 and served in the Navy until June 1985.

When just a young lad, Bob would stand by U.S. Route 301 each morning as he prepared the “Times and Democrat” newspapers for his delivery route and vow he would one day go north or south, but he was going to leave. Then, at age 18 in August 1958 he left. First, he only went a couple hundred miles up the road to the Piedmont area of northwest South Carolina where he spent one year at what at the time was Clemson College. In the spring of 1959, he competed for and won one of Representative L. Mendel Rivers’ appointments to the U.S. Naval Academy.

Then, in July 1959 he left Orangeburg enroute Annapolis, Maryland, where he was privileged to attend and graduate with the Class of 1963-Quality – “63! Following graduation from the Naval Academy, Bob served at a variety of duty stations. He spent most of his “at-sea” time in destroyers except for a one-year tour of duty in 1965- I 966 in-country in Vietnam as Officer-in-Charge of PCF-94 stationed at An Thoi, Phu Quoc.

Following graduation from the U.S. Naval Postgraduate School, Monterey, California, with a Master of Science Degree in Meteorology in October 1972, he became a specialist in meteorology. He also specialized in command, control, and intelligence communications. His final duty tour was as a member of the faculty and staff at the Joint Forces Staff College in Norfolk, Virginia. He retired from the Navy in June 1985.

After taking six months off to reduce the size of his “Honey-Do List” at home, Bob became a Senior Management Engineer for E. L. Hamm & Associates, Inc., in Virginia Beach, Virginia, from January 1986 until August 1991. Ed Hamm was a can-do businessman whose motto seemed to be, “We’ll try any job that isn’t illegal, unethical, or unprofessional.” After leaving that position, Bob became the Executive Director of the Builders & Contractors Exchange, Inc., in Norfolk, Virginia, from September 1991 until April 2009. This was his dream job.

Bob was a highly successful naval officer and business executive who was not overly aggressive, but he knew how to get a job done. While he did not “drive” others relentlessly, he worked hard and set a vigorous pace for his co-workers. He dearly enjoyed spending time with his family, reading, working at his church, and playing golf. During his retirement his greatest joy was enjoying a round of golf with friends and the special elation of his five holes-in-one. We can also say that Bob did not neglect his religious, civic, and professional affiliations; and he brought the same spirit, energy, determination, and problem-solving acumen to these positions as he did when in the world of work. 

He was also Ordained as Ruling Elder, Royster Memorial Presbyterian Church, Norfolk, Virginia, in 1990; Coordinator, Norfolk Emergency Shelter Team for the Homeless for Royster Memorial Presbyterian Church, 1991-2016; Moderator, University Presbyterian Ministry Council, Old Dominion University, Norfolk, Virginia, 1995-1999; Board member and past president, Suburban Acres Civic League, Norfolk, Virginia; Board member and past president, Joint Forces Staff College Alumni Association, Norfolk, Virginia; Member, Career and Technical Education Advisory Council, Norfolk, Virginia, Public Schools, 1991-2007 and Vice Moderator, 2003-2007; Member, International Builders Exchange Executives, with Headquarters in San Antonio, Texas 1992-2009, and President 2001-2002; Board member and treasurer for The Dwelling Place, Norfolk, Virginia, June 2012-June 2014.

Elected treasurer of Royster Memorial Presbyterian Church, Norfolk, Virginia, in July 2009 and served until “retirement., in December 2022; Teacher, The Word Adult Sunday School Class, Royster Memorial Presbyterian Church, 2009- 2022; Bob and his wife Sharon were married in July 1977. They were blessed to experience deep love and affection for one another and their two sons. Bob was a true gentleman who treated everyone with love, respect, and kindness even though his ready wit and dry sense of humor may have caused some to doubt his true intentions. His family and friends were blessed to know him and spend precious years with him.

Along with his wife Sharon, Bob is survived by his brother Jimmy Lyons of Aiken, South Carolina; and son Michael Lyons of Alexandria, Virginia. His surviving aunt, Frances Davis, lives in Bolentown, South Carolina. He has cousins living in South Carolina, Florida, Pennsylvania, and Massachusetts.

He was also preceded in death by his son, Jonathan Lyons.

A memorial service with Military Honors was held at 1:00 pm on Saturday, May 18 at Royster Memorial Presbyterian Church, 6901 Newport Avenue, Norfolk, Virginia 23505.


Submitted by AGC Fay Crossley, USN (Ret)




AGCM Donald W. Shaver, USN (Ret)
November 7, 1932 to April 13, 2024

Mr. Don Shaver, a loving husband, father, grandfather, and brother, passed away peacefully on April 13, 2024, in Peachtree City, Georgia. He was born on November 7, 1932, at Fort McPherson.

Donald dedicated many years of his life to serving in the Navy before retiring. Following his retirement, he continued his passion for education by working as an ROTC teacher at Kempsville High School in Virginia Beach, Virginia. He also pursued higher education and attended Old Dominion University.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 70 years, Peggy Shaver; his daughter Donna Shaver Bush and her husband Chris; his son James "Jim" Shaver and his wife Vickie; his brothers David "Buddy" Shaver and his wife Ina, and Harris McGarrah and his wife Carol. Don also leaves behind grandchildren Kevin Kunkler and his wife Jenny, Rebecca Bush, Donald Shaver, Erin Cummings and her husband Adam, Brittany Benton and her husband Travis, as well as eight great-grandchildren with one on the way. He is also remembered fondly by many nieces, nephews, and the loving members of the Shelton family.

A service to celebrate Don's life was held on Monday, April 22, 2024, at 2 o'clock in the Chapel of Parrott Funeral Home, with Mr. James White officiating.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Southwest Christian Care at 7225 Lester Rd., Union City, GA 30291.                                                                                                                                        

Submitted by xAG2 Gary Cox, USN (Rel)





CWO Jerry Lee Barber, USN (Ret)
August 22, 1942 to May 3, 2024

Bartow - Jerry Lee Barber, age 81, passed away Friday, May 3, 2024, at Lakeland Regional Health and Medical Center. He was born  August 22, 1942, in Watseka , IL. 

He was a United States Navy Veteran of 30 years. He enjoyed spending time with his family and following his favorite baseball team the Baltimore Orioles. 

He was preceded in death by his mother Vernadine, father Charles and his beloved dogs Willy and Siggy. He is survived by his loving family which includes his loving wife of 56 years Pat Barber of Bartow, sons John Barber of Newnan, GA & Gregory Barber (Kimberly) of Glen Burnie, MD, daughter Laura Barber of Newnan, GA and grandchildren Ryan Barber, Eva Barber & Chloe Barber of Glen Burnie, MD. 

Family will receive friends Saturday, May 11, 2024 from 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM at First United Methodist Church, Bartow.  Funeral service will be held Saturday, May 11, 2024, at 11:00 AM at First United Methodist Church. Condolences to family at www.whiddenmcleanfuneralhome.com



 

Elspeth Andrus Lloyd

July 13, 1937 – March 2, 2024

Widow of AGC Robert Lloyd, USN (Ret)

Elspeth Andrus Lloyd, 86, died on Saturday, March 2, 2024 after a short illness. She was born on July 13, 1937, in Chicago, Illinois, daughter of the late Dr. Lawrence and Margaret Andrus - Whitney. In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by a daughter, Mary Suzanne Lloyd.

She was a graduate of the University of Florida where she received two Master’s Degrees. In 1958 she married Robert Baldwin Lloyd, who died in 2011.

Mrs. Lloyd moved to Pensacola in 1946 and graduated from Pensacola High School at the age of 15. After graduating at 19 from the University of Florida, she met her future husband when she was the librarian at a small military library; he returned an overdue book. His naval career would take them from Maryland to London to California, with many interesting places in-between. They returned to Pensacola in 1969, buying a home in North Hill that she would live in until her death. Mrs. Lloyd began working for the Escambia County School District shortly after returning to Pensacola, beginning a 30 year career as an evaluational specialist. She presented at many education conferences throughout her career and received numerous professional accolades. She was a member of the FCAT Committee. Mrs. Lloyd was an active member of Christ Episcopal Church and sang in the choir for many years. She was a former chairwoman of Christ Episcopal Church’s Antique Show, former President of the Episcopal Church Women, and could be found on kitchen duty more often than not.

Mrs. Lloyd was a former regent of the San Carlos Chapter of the Daughter of the American Revolution. She was honored to receive multiple awards when an active member of the DAR, including DAR State Outstanding Junior. She was a former president of the Pensacola chapter of Colonial Dames. She was a former President of Les Harlequins. Mrs. Lloyd previously served on the board of the Choral Society of Pensacola. She was a former volunteer for Friends of the Library.

Mrs. Lloyd is survived by her sister, Susanne T Lindsay (Dr. David), of Athens, Georgia; her brother, Lawrence Andrus (Diane), Atlanta, Georgia; daughter Margaret Lloyd and son in law (Brian Lenharth) Lloyd; son, Dr. Robert Lloyd (Ann); and daughter, Lucy Lloyd. She leaves ten grandchildren, Andrew, Philip, Peter, and Paul Lenharth, Owen and David Lloyd, Ellyn Lloyd Schwaiger, and David, William, and Benjamin Kolschowsky, ten great-grandchildren, beloved nieces and nephews, and the many friends she considered family.

A memorial service was held on Thursday, March 14, 2024, at Christ Episcopal Church. The family will receive friends in the Parish House following the service. A committal service will follow at Barrancas National Cemetery. It is requested that flowers be omitted and memorials be made to the Christ Church Building Fund or the Episcopal Day School library.

I'm not sure if you received subject, so I'm enclosing a copy.  Elspeth was the wife of
AGC Bob Lloyd who passed away in 2011.  Elspeth was a member of our Chapter and
attended our functions up until her health would not allow her to attend.  She was a very talented lady.  
Submitted by AGCM Pat O'Brien, USN (Ret)




Ann Elizabeth Latlam
Passed December 28, 2023
Wife of AGCS Terry Latham, USN (Ret)

Ann Elizabeth Latham passed away peacefully in her sleep with her two dogs, Toby and Trixie by her side. Ann was born in London England and was a true Cockney from the East End.

She met her husband, Terry who was stationed in London with the U.S. Navy on December 28th, 1966...and passed away exactly 57 years to the day of their first meeting.

Ann leaves behind her loving husband, Terry, her two daughters, Susan and Valerie, son Jay and 8 living grandchildren and a granddaughter, Mallory who proceeded her in death.

Ann was a remarkable woman who had many talents beyond being a loving wife and mother. She was a nurse in a nursing home, sat with private patients, managed a nursing home, owned several small businesses, managed an international gift business, served as a volunteer in Naval hospitals, and worked with her husband, Terry in the care of abused and neglected children at Hope Haven Children's Shelter. She also was "mom" to teen girls in the home when they gave birth and collected and distributed hundreds of Christmas gifts to abused and neglected children and poor families in Mississippi. Her heart for children and her dogs knew no boundaries.

Her wish was to "be set free" and have her ashes scattered into the Atlantic Ocean where the gulf stream would carry her back to home to England where her and her husband first met.

A celebration of life will be held at the Island Lakes Community Center at noon on Wednesday the 3rd of January. Ann wished that individuals who desire to remember her make a donation in her name to their local animal shelter.

Posted online on December 31, 2023

Published in Florida Today

Submitted by CWO3 Jim Romano, USN (Ret)




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A Weather Forecaster, AGC Floyd Akers?, acccording to Joan Akers
Joan "Nana" Akers
Passed January 2, 2024
Widow of AGC Floyd A. Akers, USN (Ret)

Joan "Nana" Akers, born in West Orange, NJ, passed away Tuesday, January 2, 2024. She was predeceased by her spouse of 61 years, Floyd A. Akers. 

Left to cherish her memory are her three children: Frederick Akers (Deb), Sharon Burks Young, and Alexander Akers (Bobbie); plus, her 7 grandchildren, 17 great grandchildren, and 1 great-great grandchild. 

Please visit www.vacremationsociety.com to share memories and offer condolences.

Joan was an amazing lady, full of energy, but she was in bad shape the last year.  There is going to be a COL 2/10 hoping all of what is left of HRC will go.  You MIGHT remember Joan as the Weather "Mouse" for the Aerograph maybe 20 years ago.  Joan's husband Floyd AGC was one of the first NWSA chiefs at the ORF club is get the NWSA going. Originally was just going to be chiefs.

VR   Fay Crossley, HRC President/Secretary



Geraldine Ann Langemo
April 30, 1938 – December 13, 2023
Wife of CDR James Langemo
USN (Ret)

Geraldine Ann Langemo

April 30, 1938 – December 13, 2023

Wife of CAPT James Langemo USN (Ret)


Geraldine Ann Langemo, 85, of Oneonta, NY, and formerly of Detroit Lakes, MN, passed away on December 13, 2023, at AO Fox Hospital Nursing Home, Oneonta.

 

Gerry was born on April 30, 1938 in Valley City, ND, the daughter of Hjalmer and Ruth (Cook) Jensen. Gerry grew up in Mahnomen, MN. She graduated from Mahnomen High School in 1956 and continued on to Moorhead State Teachers’ College, graduating in 1960. She married James C. Langemo on December 31, 1960.



She had several different teaching positions throughout her career. Gerry especially loved the preschool age. Her longest and last job was Director of the Preschool at Emmanuel Lutheran Church in Vienna, Virginia.

 

As the wife of a Naval officer, Gerry was given the opportunity to live and travel in many different places for 30 years. In each new location, she always made it a priority to join and become involved with a Lutheran church and even sang in 11 different choirs over the years. Each place gave her new opportunities to serve her community through volunteering. This was a significant part of Gerry’s life.

 

When they moved back to Minnesota after retirement, they settled in Detroit Lakes. It was then that Gerry became a member of the local chapters of PEO and Damiens. Her love of travel continued into retirement when Gerry and Jim took many trips and cruises to foreign countries.


With family spread out over the country, Gerry made it a priority to gather the family every summer. She created wonderful memories for her grandchildren, and even great-grandchildren, with 20 years of “Camp Langemo” at their home on Detroit Lakes.

 

Gerry is survived by her husband, James Langemo of Oneonta, NY; 3 daughters, Laura (Dennis) Sherrill of Oneonta, NY, Carol (Brian) Thomas of Westcliffe, CO and Janna (Bill) Benston of Dunwoody, GA; 10 grandchildren; and 9 great grandchildren.

 

She was predeceased by her parents, Hjalmer and Ruth Jensen; and a sister, LaVonne Danitschek.

 

A live streamed funeral service took place on Sunday, December 17, 2023 at 1 pm at the Bookhout Funeral Home, 357 Main Street, Oneonta, after which everyone was warmly greeted by the family.

 

Gerry was laid to rest in the spring at Glenwood Cemetery, Oneonta.

 

Arrangements were by Bookhout Funeral Home, Oneonta.

 

Visit www.bookhoutfuneralhome.com to leave a condolence for the family.


Submitted by AG1 Steven Smith, USN (Ret)




Lenore Elaine Semmler

Jan. 26, 1941 – Jul. 16, 2023

Wife of AGCS Kenneth “Ken” Semmler USN (Ret)


Lenore Elaine Semmler was born to Walter and Grace Bensburg in Flushing, Queens, New York on January 26, 1941. The Bensburgs lived with Grace’s mother and Lenore was surrounded by aunts, uncles and cousins until they relocated to Arizona after the war. They were greeted in Arizona by Aunt Melva and Uncle Ed Darnell. Father Walter did every job he could get, whether picking cotton or sweeping the theater, until he got his parts delivery job at Litchfield Park Naval Air Facility. Mother Grace would be a housekeeper at the Wigwam, worked at the Exchange at Luke AFB, and worked as a clerk at King’s dry goods store. Lenore went to Tollison grade school then to Agua Fria high school. The Bensburgs attended church at Christ the King Lutheran Church which father Walter helped build. It was there that Lenore met Ken Semmler, a handsome sailor and lifetime love.

Ken and Lenore married in that church on June 7, 1959. Soon he swept her away from Avondale, AZ, to the world of his 20-year Navy career. Upon retirement, Ken moved his small family to Pierce, ID, in 1975, where they made a life for nearly 20 years. In 1994, Ken and Lenore moved to Pebble Creek in Goodyear, AZ, where they lived for 23 years. Since then they moved to Colorado where they have been for the past six years.

Lenore had an outgoing personality and an infectious laugh. One evening after enjoying a comedy show in Las Vegas, the comedian asked her to attend the show the next evening, as everyone had such a great time laughing with her. A devoted follower of Jesus, Lenore often ministered to hurting people with a prayer and word of encouragement. She had a lifelong love of music and her strong tenor voice contributed to choirs at her church and in the community.

Lenore is survived by her husband of 64 years, Ken, her daughter Kristen (Guy) Pacot, son Mark (Kim) Semmler and sisters Claudia (Chuck) Miles and Susan (Tom) Kent.

Interment took place at Ft. Logan National Cemetery on August 2, 2023. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation in memory of Lenore to King of Kings Lutheran Church, 8300 Pomona Dr. Arvada CO 80005.

Submitted by AGCS Ken Semmler, USN (Ret)



Myrna Ziebell

March 9, 1937 – February 21, 2021

Wife of AGCS Bill Ziebell, USN (Ret)


Myrna Lois Ziebell (nee Aucutt) passed away peacefully on Sunday morning, at the age of 83, following a long journey with Alzheimer's. A longtime resident of Lake Zurich, IL, she will be laid to rest at Delafield Cemetery on Thursday, Feb. 25th, following a 9:00 a.m. reception and 10:00 a.m. service at her childhood church, St. John Chrysostom Episcopal Church at St. John's Military Academy in Delafield, WI. She is preceded in death by her parents, Lois and William Aucutt; her sister, Reona Howard; and her brother, William Aucutt.


Myrna was a 1955 graduate of Oconomowoc High School and was a prolific reader who often had several books by her side. She loved history and culture and she, along with her husband and family, lived in such places as Morocco, Africa, Newfoundland, and Guam. This sparked a love of foreign travel and adventure which continued after her retirement. She also loved music and could be heard singing along to her favorite songs long after Alzheimer's had taken its hold. She particularly loved going out dancing with her husband to live Big Band music. Her laughter was infectious, and she will be remembered for her gentle kindness and generous, loving spirit.


Myrna won many awards for her work with the U.S. Navy and her charity work and was known for her fierce support for women's rights and equality. Though diminutive in height, she was a force to be reckoned with and struck fear in the hearts of her children whenever she said, "You'd better not be in my seat." She never had a mean word for anyone with the exception of a few politicians here and there and maybe those that played against the Chicago Bears. Above all else, she was endlessly devoted to the great love of her life, Bill, for nearly 65 years of marriage, and, despite their long separations early in his naval career, was most content with him by her side, which is where he stayed to the end.


She is survived by her loving husband, William Ziebell; her three children, Julie Ambler (Robert), William Ziebell (Michelle), and Jenna Ziebell Preibisch (Thomas); as well as her 7 grandchildren and her great-grandchildren. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations in Myrna's name to the Alzheimer's Association.

 

Published by Daily Herald on Feb. 24, 2021.

Submitted by AG1 Steven Smith, USN (Ret)




AGCS Elmer B. Fondren, USN (Ret)
February 12, 1931 to September 18, 2023

Elmer was a quality man who is survived by his loving wife Jana, grandchildren, great grandchildren, a loving step family, an adopted Hawaiian family and oh so many friends.

He enjoyed fishing, golf, and bowling. Elmer was a great story teller of things in his life. Being retired from the Navy, he had a lot of stories to share. 

Elmer was an ethical man with a positive outlook on life. He will be missed by many.



AG1 Omar Olsen, Jr., USN (Ret)
July 22, 1938 to December 19, 2022

Omar Olsen, Jr., age 84, resident of Corpus Christi, Texas, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his family on December 19, 2022.

He was born July 22, 1938 to the late Omar Olsen, Sr. and Olive (Packard) Olsen in Batavia, New York.


Omar graduated in 1956 from Batavia High School in Batavia, New York. Omar went on to marry the late Patricia (Perry) Olsen with whom he shared three daughters. He enlisted and proudly served in the United States Navy as an Aerographer's Mate. Omar served 20 years in the Navy, including service aboard the USS La Salle (AGF-3) Bahrain. He retired from the United States Navy in the late 1970s from Corpus Christi, Texas and 
made Corpus Christi his home for the remainder of his life.

 

He married the last love of his life, Margaret George in 2005 in Corpus Christi Texas. Omar was an avid fisherman, spending his youth fishing with his father in and around Canandaigua Lake and surrounding Western New York areas. He said, "If a man did not like fishing, there must be something wrong with them." His other passion was song writing, and playing country-western music on his mandolin. He was known as "The Viking" and played with many bands in and around Flour Bluff.


Omar was a kind and quiet man, and his battle with serious medical issues in recent years showed his extreme courage and strength. He will be sadly missed by family and friends.


He was preceded in death by his wives Margaret Olsen and the late Carol Olsen, and his son-in-law Jeffrey Jackson.


He is survived by his daughters Christine (David) Kautz of Freeport, Florida, Marjorie (late Jeff) Jackson of Milton, Florida, and Janice Olsen, of Corpus Christi, Texas; his dearest granddaughters Jennifer (Tor) Eystad, Lauren (Art) Olsen, and Shayla Mullen; his great-grandsons Erik and Ivan Eystad.

The family wishes to send a special thank you to the staff of Nurses on Wheels for their care and compassion.

No services will be held. We ask that when gathered with friends and family, whether it be at the Oasis, around the Bluff, or wherever you may be, you share stories of Omar Olsen.

 

Submitted by AGC Cecil R. Ellis, USN (Ret)





CDR Donald Jerome Schaff, USN (Ret) 
Oct. 30, 1931 - Jan. 17, 2020

SEELEY LAKE - Commander Donald died peacefully on Jan. 17, 2020 at the Living Centre in Stevensville, Mont. He was 88.

Don was born on Oct. 30, 1931 in Mandan, N.D. to Ludmilla Loran and Jerome Schaff. 

He spent his early years there and then moved to Miles City where he attended high school and Jr. College. He transferred to the University of Montana where he received a degree in Mathematics in 1953. 

After graduation he entered Officers Candidate School and was commissioned an Ensign in the Navy in 1954. He served on several ships and traveled around the world. He was awarded a Master of Science degree in Meteorology at the Naval Postgraduate School in 1966 followed by duty on the Aircraft Carrier Constellation during the Vietnam War.

He retired in Seeley Lake in 1980 to have fun dancing, fishing, golfing, caring for his family and his greatest passion singing, particularly at his church.

Don Schaff was an inspiring person and will be remembered for his sense of humor, his positive attitude and his beautiful voice. To know him was to love him and be uplifted by his endless light.

Don is survived by: his wife Eileen of 63 years; their three children Lorrie, Leonard and Leland; two grandchildren Carrie and Jacalyn; brother Dennis Heinzmann and sister Joann Gould. He was preceded in death by his parents, his brothers Jim and Glenn and his son Michael.

A Funeral Mass was held at Living Water Catholic Church in Seeley Lake on Monday Feb 10, followed by a reception.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests a donation in Don's name be made to the Seeley or Missoula Food Bank or charity of their choice.

Interment with Military Honors took place in the spring.

Submitted by AGCM Tom Miovas, USN (Ret)






Diane Peterson

Passed October 18, 2023

Wife of AGCS Lloyd “Pete” Peterson, USN (Ret)


It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Diane Peterson on October 18, 2023, after a short illness. Diane and her loving husband of 37 years Lloyd "Pete" Peterson resided in Angel Fire, NM.

 

Diane's lifelong passion as a dancer paved her career as a dance instructor. Diane and Pete spent the last 18 years in Angel Fire. Diane was a great supporter of the Angel Fire Community, active in Garden Club, Christ Our Savior Lutheran Church and any other activities that came her way.

 

Diane is preceded in death by her parents, Servero and Dorothy Johnson and son, Derek J. Lutz. 


She is survived by her loving spouse, Lloyd "Pete" Peterson, of Angel Fire, stepdaughter, Jackie Swanson of Washington State, stepson, William Lutz of Illinois, stepdaughters, Kathy Anderson, Debbie Garcia and stepson, James Peterson all of North Carolina. She is also survived by numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren.

 

Funeral Services were held on Saturday, October 28, 2023 at 11 AM at Christ Our Savior Lutheran Church in Angel Fire. Interment will take place Monday, October 30, 2023 at 11:30 AM at Angel Fire Veteran Cemetery.

 

In lieu of flowers please make a donation to the following: Christ Our Savior Lutheran Church, The Rotary Club of Angel Fire or Garden Club of Angel Fire. 

Arrangements by Rivera Family Funeral Home. To share a memory, please visit our website at
Editor’s Note: The following tribute beautifully captures Diane’s life and the impact she had on those who knew her.

Diane you will be missed. I will always remember you asking Rick and I to help put up the Christmas decorations at Bethel Lutheran Church after we joined, and how much fun we had doing that. You were a great friend (sister), confidant, mentor, and beautiful soul.  I'm grateful the Lord put you in my journey here on earth. Rest in Peace sis.

Love you, Pam
www.riverafuneralhome.com


Editor’s Note: The following tribute beautifully captures Diane’s life and the impact she had on those who knew her.

Diane you will be missed. I will always remember you asking Rick and I to help put up the Christmas decorations at Bethel Lutheran Church after we joined, and how much fun we had doing that. You were a great friend (sister), confidant, mentor, and beautiful soul.  I'm grateful the Lord put you in my journey here on earth. Rest in Peace sis.

Love you, Pam


Photo by Nancy Warrenfeltz

Diane and Pete at Reunion #40, Pensacola 2014

Submitted by xAG2 Gary Cox, USN (Rel)

 

Editor’s Note: The following tribute beautifully captures Diane’s life and the impact she had on those who knew her.

 

Diane you will be missed. I will always remember you asking Rick and I to help put up the Christmas decorations at Bethel Lutheran Church after we joined, and how much fun we had doing that. You were a great friend (sister), confidant, mentor, and beautiful soul. I'm grateful the Lord put you in my journey here on earth. Rest in Peace sis.

 

Love you, Pam





AG1 William Floyd McMillan, Jr., USN (Ret)

March 22, 1948 – July 13, 2022

William “Mac” Floyd McMillan, Jr. of Santa Rita was called to eternal life on July 13, 2022 at the age of 74.

 

Viewing and Last Respects were held on Thursday, July 28 from 10:00am-12:00pm at Our Lady of Peace Memorial Chapel, Windward Hills, Yona. Cremation Services immediately followed.

 

Published in the Pacific Daily News, 23 Jul 2022, Sat., Page 5 (Agana Heights, Guam)

 

Submitted by LCDR Dennis Ruth, USN (Ret) with the following notes of interest and remembrance:

 

Notes:

Today I uncovered an obituary for a former shipmate, William F. McMillan, Jr. Bill was in my Meteorological and Oceanographic Analyst/Forecaster Course C-7 class at Chanute AFB during 21 August 1978 to 11 January 1979. I don’t know if Bill’s obituary has appeared in a prior Aerograph.

 

Records on Ancestry.com show that Bill was born 22 March 1948 in Harris County, TX, the son of the late William Floyd McMillan and Ruby Mae Lucas. He is survived by his sister, Susan Fenton, Tyler, TX.

AG1 McMillan was awarded the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal on 25 Apr 1989, in Guam, by the Commander in Chief U.S. Pacific Fleet. I’m making a presumption that Bill retired in April 1989.

Public records index on Ancestry.com showed his residence addresses as: 1998-2003, Corpus Christi, TX; 2002-2004, Barrigada, Guam; 1984-2019, Bishop TX; 1999-2020, Santa Rita, Guam. I’d say that he returned to TX when he initially retired, and then moved back to Guam.


Remembrance:

I recall Bill having that ‘Texas Swag’ and he enjoyed letting everyone know that Texas had no equal. He had a quick wit and was fun to be around.

 

Rest in Peace Shipmate.



.

AGC David Posey Dunlap, Jr., USN (Ret)

December 5, 1940 – October 7, 2023

David “Pete” Posey Dunlap, Jr., 82, of Pensacola, FL passed away on Saturday, October 7, 2023.

 

Dave was born at York Hospital in York, PA on December 5, 1940, to the late David Posey Dunlap and Bessie Mae Seyler Dunlap. Dave was a Meteorologist in the US Navy, retiring after 20 years of service. After retirement, he attended the University of West Florida and graduated in 1979 with a bachelor’s degree in business management. He then worked as a Management Analyst for the Federal Civil Service until his retirement in 1992. Dave was a loving husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather. Dave was an avid bowler and loved solving crossword puzzles. He enjoyed the excitement of both horse and dog racing. Above all, the love for his family was the most important thing in the world to him. He will be dearly missed by his family and by all who knew him.

He is preceded in death by his parents; five brothers, Spike Boyer, Donald Boyer, Ray Dunlap, Barry Dunlap, and Dale Dunlap, Sr.; as well as one sister, Janet “Patty” LaValley.

 

Survivors include his loving wife, Jerrie Dunlap; a daughter, Theresa Brown; three sons, David Dunlap, Charles Dunlap, and Martin Dunlap; three sisters, Carol Smith, Rebecca Matson and Geri Corsa; six grandchildren, Rachael Dunlap, Stephanie Brazwell, Mary “Nikki” Dunlap, Sarah Brown, Maddie Johansen, and Heather Rogge; five great-grandchildren, Roy and Chris Brazwell, Hayleigh Hill, Nolan and Amberlee Spencer, and Ollie Johansen.


A graveside service with full military honors was held on October 24, 2023, at Barrancas National Cemetery, with Rev. Diane Stephensen officiating.

 

The family would like to extend a special thank you to the medical staff of the CCU Unit at HCA Florida West Hospital.


In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

 

Submitted by AGCM Patrick O’Brien, USN (Ret)





LCDR Dale E. Grages, USN (Ret)
October 11, 1930 - September 8, 2023

LCDR Dale Edward Grages, Sr., 92, a proud veteran of the US Navy, passed away peacefully with his beloved family by his side. 

 

Dale was most proud of his Naval Career.  He entered the service as a young Seaman Recruit. During his military career, he served on many ships for long deployments away from his family.  His first deployment as a commissioned officer was the USS Pine Island AV-12 during the Vietnam War. He continued to serve as a Weather Officer on military bases around the world. His last duty station was Whiting Field, Milton, FL.  He enjoyed his last years of the military, guessing the weather for the newly winged pilots. He retired after 30 years of service.


Dale attended Coleman High School, Coleman, Wisconsin.  He attended the University of Maryland where he received a Bachelor of Science Degree in Business Management, majoring in Math. 

 

After the Navy, he traveled between Las Vegas and Frankfort, Germany, later settling in Las Vegas and enjoying the bright lights and loud casinos.  He enjoyed painting with oil in his spare time and created many amazing portraits.  He loved having his dachshunds always by his side.

 

In his final years, Dale moved to Foley, AL to be closer to his children.  

 

Dale is survived by his current wife Doris, children from his first marriage, Valerie, Fred, Dale and Susan, and his stepchildren, Astrid and Isabel.  He is preceded in death by his first wife Bertha (d.1981).  

 

Visitation was held from 1:00 – 2:00 on September 11, 2023 followed immediately by the Chapel Service at Foley Chapel Wolfe-Bayview Funeral Home.

 

Inurnment will be at Barancas National Cemetery in Pensacola, FL, on October 4, 2023, at 11:30 a.m.

 

Posted online on September 16, 2023

Published in Pensacola News Journal

 

Submitted by AG1 Steven Smith, USN (Ret)



AG1 James J. Stasko, USN (Ret)
February 21, 1937 – August 16, 2000
AG1 James J. Stasko, USN (Ret)
February 21, 1937 to August 16, 2000

James J. Stasko, 63, of Phoenix AZ, a Machinist died August 16, 2000. He was born in Cleveland, Ohio on February 21, 1937. [He retired as a meteorologist from the U.S. Navy after 20 years of honorable service.]

 

Survivors include his wife, Ellen Stasko; daughters Patti Starkweather and Dawn Green and husband Michael; son Robert Thompson and wife Theresa all of Phoenix; mother, Sylvia; nephew, Alen Revilock both of Ohio; 4 grandchildren and 2 great-grandchildren.

Visitation was held from 5-8pm with a rosary at 7:30pm on Sunday, August 20, 2000 at Hansen Mortuary, 8314 N. 7th St., Phoenix, AZ. Funeral Mass was held at 10:30am on Monday, August 21, 2000 at Francis Xavier Catholic Church, 4715 N. Central Ave., Phoenix, AZ.

Submitted by LCDR Robert Josephs, USN (Ret) with the following remembrance:

 

AG1 James J. Stasko was my LPO at the Weather Office, 1970, Naval Support Activity (NSA), Danang, RVN. Our paths never crossed after that tour together. RIP shipmate. A picture of James is on NWSA website— AGB-6706 class photo. He and Bruce DeWald were AG B school classmates. James J. Stasko, 63, of Phoenix AZ, a Machinist died August 16, 2000. He was born in Cleveland, Ohio on February 21, 1937.  [He retired as a meteorologist from the U.S. Navy after 20 years of honorable service.]

James J. Stasko, 63, of Phoenix AZ, a Machinist died August 16, 2000. He was born in Cleveland, Ohio on February 21, 1937.  [He retired as a meteorologist from the U.S. Navy after 20 years of honorable service.]




James J. Stasko, 63, of Phoenix AZ, a Machinist died August 16, 2000. He was born in Cleveland, Ohio on February 21, 1937.  [He retired as a meteorologist from the U.S. Navy after 20 years of honorable service.]


LCDR Rpbert E. Seyfarth, USN (Ret)
July 25, 1939 to November 9, 2019

Chambersburg - Dr. Robert Ernst Seyfarth, 80 of Chambersburg, died on Saturday, November 9, 2019 in the Chambersburg Hospital. Born on July 25, 1939 in Cambridge, Massachusetts, he was a son of the late Ernst Oscar Seyfarth and Gertrude Freeman Seyfarth.


A 1957 of West Newton High School in West Newton, MA, Bob then attended the U.S. Naval Academy, graduating in 1961. He then served in the U.S. Navy from 1961 until he retired in 1981. During his Navy career he studied Meteorology at the Naval Postgraduate School in Monterey, California in 1965, earned his Master's Degree in Business Administration at Golden Gate College in California in 1973, and earned his Doctorate in Education at the University of Reno (UNR) Nevada in 1980, while stationed at Fallon Naval Air Station, Nevada until retiring as a Lt. Commander. His career missions included active involvement in the Cuban Missile Crisis while aboard the USS John R. Pierce DD753 and the recovery of Scott Carpenter's NASA Space Capsule. Bob retired again in 2004 from Lock Haven University where he was a professor of Business Management.

Throughout his career, he and his wife, Barb, experienced the pleasures of living in Norfolk,VA; Pacific Grove, CA; Monterey, CA; Lakewood, CA; Oakland, CA; Machinato, Naha, Okinawa and Atsugi, Japan; Fallon, NV; Lock Haven and Chambersburg, PA.


He is survived by his wife of 58 years, Barbara Smalley Seyfarth, whom he married on June 17, 1961; two daughters, Karin Marie (Adam) Kremers of Reno, NV, and Suzanne (Jay) Leshinskie of Centreville, MD; two grandchildren, Preston James Leshinskie and Claudia Grace Leshinskie. He is also survived by a sister, Ann Seyfarth (Don) Trimble of Longview, WA.

 

Private graveside services were conducted at Fort Indiantown Gap National Cemetery in Annville, PA. Memorial contributions may be made to the Menno Haven Benevolent Care Fund, 2011 Scotland Avenue Chambersburg, PA 17201. Arrangements were entrusted to the care of Thomas L. Geisel Funeral Home, Chambersburg. Condolences and memories may be shared on his Book of Memories page at geiselfuneralhome.com

 

Submitted by LCDR Robert Josephs, USN (Ret)

AGCS Norman A. Silva Sr., USN (Ret)

Passed away Saturday, January 21, 2023 at Age 88

Norman Alvin Silva Sr., 88, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on January 21, 2023 at Kent County Memorial Hospital.

Norman was the husband of Janice D. Silva (Cote) for 64 years, and father to Laura Kowal (Richard), Norman Jr. (Patricia) and Denise McGuirk (David).  A devoted grandfather, Norm was affectionately referred to as “Tata” by Jessica, Shelby (Mark), Jack, Matthew, and Joshua.   He was brother to Donald, brother-in-law to Patricia, uncle to two nieces and three nephews, and great-uncle to many.   He was predeceased by his older brother Frederick.  He was the son of the late Frederick and Edna (Boyd) Silva. Norm was a beloved cousin of Barbara (Vincent) Pyle and her late husband Norman, and Paul and Cathy Vincent.

Norman grew up in Cranston, joining the U.S. Navy in 1952 following his graduation from Cranston High School.   He served as a Senior Chief Petty Officer/Aerographer’s Mate (Meteorologist) traveling around the world during his 25-year career, serving aboard The USS Breckinridge (AP-176) and the USS Shangri-La (CVS-38) and stationed at several Naval Bases, accompanied by his family.  Two of his favorites were Alaska and Spain. Upon his retirement in 1975, Norman and his family returned to Cranston, where he attained a bachelor’s degree from Johnson & Wales before beginning a second career with the U.S. Postal Service as a Mail Carrier.   His retirement from the Post Office gave him many years to spend time with his family.   Tata attended countless softball, soccer, baseball, and hockey games and numerous graduations over the years.

He was an avid reader (often saying “once you start, you can’t stop”) and he continued to read until his final days, particularly historical non-fiction. He loved fishing, spending many summer days on his boat and was a life-long NY Yankees fan.  He also enjoyed playing pinochle.   Norman had wonderful memories, often telling stories of his childhood, and sharing his incredible knowledge about US and World history.

 

The family would like to thank Dr. Purva Sharma, Dr. Elias Jabbour, along with the nurses and CNAs of KCMH and the Visiting Nurses of Care New England – all of whom worked with compassion and consideration for Norman’s treatment over the last year.  We are eternally grateful for their dedication.     

 

Visitation was on Tuesday January 24, 2023 in The Butterfield Chapel 500 Pontiac Avenue Cranston.

 

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to the Cranston Animal Shelter (920 Phenix Avenue, Cranston, RI 02921 where Norman and Janice adopted their adored Maisie. 

  

A Funeral Service was celebrated on Wednesday, January 25, 2023 at 11:00 AM in St. David's On The Hill Episcopal Church 200 Meshanticut Valley Parkway Cranston. 

 

Burial with Military Honors will follow in the Rhode Island Veterans Cemetery Exeter.





AGCS Kenneth Gordon Lewis, USN (Ret)

Oct. 24, 1940 – Nov. 25, 2022

 

Kenneth Gordon Lewis passed away on Friday, November 25, 2022 in Pensacola, Florida.

Ken was born in Des Moines, Iowa on October 24, 1940 to Kenneth Gordon McKeeman and Marjorie Peterson McKeeman. Ken spent 32 years in the Navy as an Aerographer's Mate. He joined the Navy January 2, 1958 and retired as a Senior Chief June 1, 1991. He traveled and was stationed all over the world including Antarctica. He loved serving his country.

Ken's beliefs were rooted in faith, family and freedom. Ken loved his family, he loved his Lord and Savior and his church family at Myrtle Grove United Methodist Church. He was one of the most kind and loving person you would ever meet.

Ken's many interests included Legos, trains, and radio controlled boats/cars/trucks. He was a ham radio operator and also liked to build boats. He loved to travel.

Ken is survived by his wife Joyce Arlene Mayer Lewis, sister-in-law Gladys Vallone (William), sons William Lewis (Dawn), Timothy/Natalie Lewis, Kenneth Lewis (Nydia), daughters Annette French (Paul), Susan Brown son-in-law Randy (Kenneth), Dorothy Reinke (Chris), Michele Fuzzell, grandchildren Trista Lewis, Nicholas Lewis (Shelly), Maite Lewis, Ivan Lewis, Cameron French (Bethany Ivy), Conner French (Libby), Temperance Brown, Aidan/Amber Lewis, Avery Lewis, Ashton Lewis, Addison Reinke, Michael Wilson and Benjamin Fuzzell, great grandchildren Luna Lewis, Liliana Lewis, Ashlyn French, Jaxon French, Michael Ivy, Madilynn Ivy, Rose Brown and Kendall Fuzzell.

He is preceded in death by father and mother, stepdad Lester Lewis, brother William, sister Virginia, grandsons Benjamin French and Dylan Fuzzell, granddaughter Autumn Reinke.

A Fellowship was held on Monday, March 13, 2023 at Myrtle Grove United Methodist Church 1030 N 57th Ave, Pensacola, FL., followed by a Memorial Service and Reception. The Graveside Service was held at Barrancas National Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in Kenneth's memory may be made to Myrtle Grove UMC.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.oaklawnfunerals.com for the Lewis family.

Submitted by CWO4 Chuck Yengst, USN (Ret)


CAPT James Leon Gilchrist, USN (Ret)
Passed away Friday, August 21, 2015 at Age 80

James Leon Gilchrist, 80, passed away Friday, August 21, 2015. Memorial services were on Friday, August 28, 2015, at Bethel A.M.E. Church. 


Leon leaves to cherish his memories, grandson, Jai Leon Gilchrist II, daughter-in-law, (Ret.) Chief Petty Officer Sandra D. Doyle-Gilchrist, both of Murrieta, CA; best friend, Sylvia D. Williams, of Tallahassee, FL; foster granddaughter, Chassidy Youngblood, Atlanta, GA; goddaughter, Lesley Myrick, Marianna, FL and a host of other relatives and friends. 


In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Southern Scholarship Foundation, 322 Stadium Drive, Tallahassee, FL 32304, (850) 222-3833.


Published by Tallahassee Democrat on Aug. 27, 2015, Thu., Page C4

Submitted by LCDR Dennis Ruth, USN (Ret)

Editor’s Note: The following reflections by family, friends, and colleagues, are a wonderful testament to the strength, character and influence of CAPT Gilchrest.  Fair winds and following seas Shipmate.

Continue to rest easy Dad. Your grandson, Naval Aviator Lt. Jai Leon Gilchrist II, is currently stationed in Whidbey Island Washington State with Squadron VP-47. He has been in for 5.5 years now. I can imagine how proud you are of him. He's an Amazing young man and I am so very proud of him.

Thank you for everything Dad and I miss you much. Rest in Peace Dad.

Your Daughter-In-Law,

Sandra Doyle-Gilchrist, September 2, 2015

Sorry to just learn of Captain Gilchrist's passing last August. From 1959 to 61, Mr. Gilchrist was our Navigations Officer and flight crew member on Crew 4 and later crew 11 in Patrol Squadron Eight. I last saw Leon at our VP8 Alumni Reunion in Pensacola in 2003. He was a fine man, modest and caring and respected, and an inspiration to all who knew him.

Ralph Papa, January 5, 2016

James Gilchrist was a remarkable man who truly loved the kids. Today was difficult for me at Fairview Middle School. However, I was able to carry the baton well. Mr. Gilchrist often reminded me and the boys that "If the house is to be set in order, one cannot begin with the present; he must begin with the past." ~ John Hope Franklin. We will miss you Pops!!!!

Zachery Richardson, September 1, 2015

Leon Gilchrist was an incredible human being. He had such a warm personality, gentle heart, and was quite a gentleman. I am indeed blessed to have had the opportunity to be in his presence. My deepest sympathy goes out to his family and best friend Sylvia. You all will be in my prayers. Leon was a gem.

Lady Dhyana Ziegler, August 28, 2015


I knew Capt. Gilchrist as my Commanding Officer when attending FSU. He always represented the Navy and military in the most professional way and as I knew him through the years following our naval service, he continued to be a consummate professional. He will be sorely missed.

Joe Rudolfer, August 28, 2015

NWSF Yokosuka 1976 Change of Command Program

Includes Summary of CDR Gilchrist's 1976 Career

Rhena Lee Gilchrist

Born 21 May 1940, Died 23 Sep 1994

Wife of CDR James L Gilchrist, USN (Ret)


Rhena Lee “Tina” Gilchrist, 54, of Tallahassee died Friday in Tallahassee. The service was held  Tuesday 27 Sept. 1994 at Bethel AME Church in Tallahassee, with burial at Curlly’s Meadow-Wood Memorial Park. Alpha Kappa Alpha sororityl held a memorial service on Sept. 26th. 


Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society, 1204. Miccosukee Road, Tallahassee. 32308. 


A native of Chicago, she had lived in Tallahassee since 1981. She was a compliance manager/supervisor for the State of Florida. She was a member of the Delta Kappa Omega chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., She was a lifelong member of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People, and also was a member of The Drifters, Inc., the Florida Association of Community Relations Professional, Inc., and the International Association of Human Rights, the Quettes and the Tallahassee chapter of the Urban League. 


She is survived by her husband, Leon Gilchrist of Tallahassee; a son, Jai Leon Gilchrist of San Diego; a brother, Emerson Williams of Honolulu; two sisters, Gloria D. Raft of Downer Grove., Ill., and Edith A. Williams of Des Plaines, Ill., and a grandchild.

Published by Tallahassee Democrat, 26 Sep 1994, Mon., Page 37 

NOTE: Their son, Jai Leon Gilchrist, passed away, age 48, at the Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, August 18, 2009.
Mrs. Julie Reese
16 April 2023

With deep sadness, Julie Reese, wife of LCDR Bruce Reese, USN Ret., of Colonial Heights, Virginia, passed away on the afternoon of April 16, 2023, at home. Julie bravely fought hard during a 2-year battle with multiple myeloma (bone cancer). She was under Home Hospice for five weeks leading up to her passing, which allowed medical comfort, as she had wished. There was no visitation or funeral service held, and she was cremated per her wishes.

Julie was born in London, England, shortly before World War II began; the fourth daughter of James and Bertha Jones. She often recalled memories of sleeping under the stairs with her three sisters and her dog, Peggy, or in the nearby Underground station during the London bombings. After the war, she finished school and worked as a seamstress. 

Julie's first marriage ended in divorce, but produced her only child, Michael. She married Bruce on December 6, 1973, in Watford, England, and they shared nearly 50 wonderful years together. 

Julie is survived by her husband, Bruce; son, Michael (Marilyn) Webb; grandson, Ian (Miranda) Webb; great-grandsons, Brayden, Adriel, and Andrew Webb, all of Colonial Heights; brother-in-law’s, Terry (Denise); Dean (Susan); Ronald (Nancy); and Michael (Jill) Reese; and many nephews and nieces, both in England and the United States. 

She was predeceased by her parents; father-and mother-in-law, Ronald, and Betty Reese; sisters, Lilly Jones, Jean (Jack) Battams; and Joyce (Bill) Bennett; and sister-in-law, Lynne Reese. 

NOTE: Bruce retired in February 1999. His last duty assignment was at the Naval Space Command as the Staff Meteorologist/Oceanographer. Condolences may be sent to Bruce at 229 Honeycreek Court, Colonial Heights, VA 23834. His email address is: brucereese@aol.com




Smiling Charlie and wife Ann at Reunion 40

AGCM Charlie Jordan, USN (Ret)

Oct. 30, 1936 – January 29, 2023


Retired Aerographer MCPO Charles R. Jordan passed from this life on January 29, 2023. He was born and raised in Pampa Texas.  He went to school briefly at McMurray College then joined the Navy.  He served four years and got out of the service to pursue a higher education. Charlie went back to college at Texas Tech and then to West Texas State, where he met his future wife, Ann.  Due to the bad economy he decided to return to the Navy, serving a total of 25 years before being medically retired in 1980. At that time he was given one year to live and was advised to get his family settled.  Guess what?  God was not finished with him yet! He went on to work as a TV Weather Anchor for all three national TV affiliates in Abilene, TX.

 

He served on the Board of Directors of the Food Bank and delivered food to those who could not get out to get food for their home.  He also served on the Board of Directors for the Ben Richey Boys Ranch.  While there, the position became open for Executive Director and he was asked to take that position.  He remained there for 5 years. He was given the Paul Harris award by the local Rotary Club.  His work and "notoriety" allowed him to touch many lives in this area.  He always gave 100% to everything he did.  He believed in being honest.  He always said "Do the best you can do, and if the opportunity comes again, do a little bit better".  His passion was riding bikes. A group would ride early on Sunday mornings, often as far as 40 miles round trip.  He liked being out in the countryside, seeing the birds and the sky. He also enjoyed fly fishing in Colorado’s rivers and streams.


AGCM Jordan’s Naval tours of duty included Midway Island, twice on the U.S.S. Oriskany, twice on Guam, Moffett Field (now a NASA facility) in San Jose CA, North Island in San Diego, CA, Lakehurst NAS, Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, FWF Jacksonville FL., Newfoundland, & Thule Greenland.  He was a member of the ice patrol squadron that flew over the Nautilus as she went under the polar ice pack. It was their job to look for thin spots in the ice so she could surface, if needed.  He was known as a fixer.  When time came for transfer, he was always sent to the weather offices that were in need of a little guidance.  While in the Navy, he earned his Bachelor's and Master’s Degrees, starting at San Jose State, and finally ending at Pepperdine University. 

 

Charlie, or Tex, however you called him, was predeceased by his parents, Lloyd and Pauline Jordan, brother Don, sister Sharon. and many beloved dogs.

 

He is survived by his wife Ann, daughter Dr. Kimberly Peters and husband Michael, son Kevin and his wife Stephanie, and two granddaughters, Valerie, and Kelsey, and his puppy Kooper. 

 

When God welcomed him home, I know he said “Well done, sailor”. 


Submitted by AGCS Jim Maxwell, USN (Ret)

 

Aerograph Editor’s Note:  The following tributes are from several people whose lives AGCM Jordan greatly influenced.

 

AGCM Charles Jordan was the best Navy CPO that I had the pleasure to work for. Provided guidance and set the best example and I ever had. I've often asked myself when making a decision, "What would Charlie Jordan do?" May he rest in peace and I shall have a mass prayed for him and you!

AGC Timothy Kenefick, USN (Ret), Feb 5, 2023


--------------------

I knew Mr. Jordan at Ben Richey.  He was an inspiration, role model and strong father figure in my life. He taught me about the importance of hard work, being honest, and being a stand up man.  I still live by some of his quotes.  I'm who I am today because of Mr. JORDAN. I greatly thank God that I got to meet such a great man.  REST IN PEACE MR JORDAN.


Eddie Ferrell Jr (BRBR 1988-1995), Feb 6, 2023

--------------------


“I’ve been at KTAB (Abilene, TX) for 43 years, and we’ve gone through a lot of employees… But there are a few that you always remember, and certainly, Charlie was one that you always remember,” said KTAB Anchor and former co-worker, Bob Bartlett.

Jordan’s on-air claim to fame; a unique form of weather casting that was, by his own records, 99% accurate, but with a presentation that most any viewer could grasp.

“Charlie showed that you could give the weather, but yet, connect in a way that everybody felt like they knew it,” KTAB Chief Meteorologist, Sam Nichols recalled.

If a large thunderstorm was headed towards Abilene, Jordan might say something like, “Y’know this thingamajig is gonna come down here, meet warm air, and we’re gonna have a frog strangler,”



LCDR Joe Edward McKinzie, USN (Ret)

June 22, 1938 to March 2, 2023

Joe E. McKinzie was born in Granola, KS, on June 22, 1938, and died at his home, surrounded by family, on March 2, 2023.


He is survived by his daughters Marie Smith (Zachary), Alice McKinzie, Kaye McKinzie (Catherine), and Teresa McKinzie; grandchildren Jebediah, Sunshine, Jaiden, Reigna, Carmine, and Bodhi; and great-grandchildren Colin, Aeris, Xander, Amadhay, Dyami, and Aeakos.


The fifth of eight children, he was predeceased by his parents, Charles and Edna, and his siblings, AM, Owen, Gerald, Bobbie, Barbara, Larry, and Connie. He enlisted in the Navy at 18, proudly serving his country for 30 years. Having never attended college, he was a mustang progressing from E1-E6, WO1-WO4, and O1-O4. Following his retirement as Lieutenant Commander, he worked for Radio Shack (Tandy Corporation) for over 15 years, where he would then retire as the Director. He spent the remainder of his life retired in Fort Worth, TX. He cherished being able to be near his brothers and grandchildren. While he spent most of his time golfing and attending all school and sporting events, he also enjoyed having breakfast every morning with his close friends, The Romeos "Retired Old Men Eating Out."


A service will be held on April 5, 2023, at 3:30 PM at the DFW National Cemetery 2000 Mountain Creek Parkway, Dallas, Texas 75211. On April 7, 2:00-3:00 PM, another service will be held at the Pratt, KS Community Center, 619 N Main, followed by a family gathering at 3:00-5:00 PM at Uptown Cafe & Club D'est at 202 S Main for appetizers and Joe Stories. A private family burial will be held on April 8 from 9-9:30AM at Fairview Park Cemetery, St. John, Kansas.


In lieu of flowers, his daughters request that donations be made to the Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society.


"Fair Winds and Following Seas. We'll take the watch from here."



AGC Michael L. Garrity, USN (Ret)

February 18, 1935 to January 19, 2023

 

Michael L. Garrity, of Whiting, NJ, passed away on January 19, 2023 at Beth Israel Hospital. He was born in Baltimore, Maryland to his parents, James T. Garrity and Clara Louise Lowell, on February 18, 1935, the youngest of 4 siblings who are also deceased. He is survived by his loving wife of 69 years, Marie; 4 children: Michele Elder, Debbi Low, Kathy Banyasz and Michael W. Garrity; 10 grandchildren; 16 great-grandchildren, all of whom he loved dearly; and numerous friends.


His last deployment was on Guam from 1970-1972 and he retired in 1974 after serving 24 honorable and proud years in the U. S. Navy.


He and his wife were long-time members of Faith Community United Methodist Church in Bayville, NJ where a celebration of life service will be held at a later date. He will be missed by all who knew him. Rest in Peace, Mike.


Anderson & Campbell Funeral Home, 115 Lacey Rd. Whiting, NJ is in charge of the funeral arrangements. To post a tribute, please visit www.andersoncampbellwhiting.com.


Remembrance...


Mike Garrity and I were in AG B School, Class 706, Feb-Jul 67.  After B School, our paths did not cross again. 

  

Submitted by LCDR Bruce DeWald, USN, (Ret)





AGC Richard A. Lingham, USN (Ret)

April 12, 1939 to February 6, 2023


Richard Alfred Lingham left his earthly life on Feb. 6, 2023, while sitting in his favorite chair, sipping coffee, doing his crossword puzzle, and watching golf. Like most things in his life, he did it his way.

 

Richard was born in Brooklyn, New York, on April 12, 1939. He grew up a charming and musically gifted young man whose wit endeared him to all. He joined the Navy after graduating from high school, where he discovered and nurtured a love for meteorology. In 1964, he met Margaret, fresh from convent school in Ireland. He fell immediately in love. She wasn't so sure, but his persistence won out. They married in 1965 and soon welcomed their children, John and Gretchen.

 

The Navy gave Richard a life of adventure and travel, and he excelled in his career as a meteorologist. His final station was NAS North Island; after falling in love with San Diego, he retired with honors in 1979 and embarked on a second career as a postal worker. He lost his beloved Margaret in 2002, but stayed strong for his family.

Rich began a new, joyful chapter when he met Nancy and built a life with her. He devoted his life to his family, particularly his cherished granddaughters, taking it upon himself to share his unique wisdom and insights at every opportunity. He loved God, golf, travel, eating and drinking, and being with family and friends.

 

We all thought Rich would live forever. He was timeless, ageless, and lit up every room he entered. He leaves a gaping hole that we will fill with unending memories and undying love. Richard is survived by his wife, Nancy; children John and Gretchen; daughter-in-law Lisa; son-in-law Martin; granddaughters Mia, Eva, Lindsey, Lily, and Randilyn; and countless friends. He will be laid to rest on March 6, 2023, at Fort Rosecrans National Cemetary, with a celebration of life to follow at Admiral Baker Golf Club. In lieu of flowers, share a toast to honor Richard, hug your loved ones, and be kind.

 

Published by San Diego Union-Tribune on Feb. 26, 2023.


Click Image to Enlarge
NAS New York 1965
LT Sycuro; AGC Jim Stone; SSGT Laura Pinckney USA; AG1 Jim Mackey; AG1 (I forget); AG2 Dick Lingham; AG3 Swede Nafthal; AG3 Bob Hall; AG3 (I forget again) & last but not least AN Mahlon Trenz.  
Received the Christmas Card from AGC Richard Lingham and thought it may be a good one for the webpage and possibly the Aerograph, especially since it has Chief's Stone, Lingham, and Trenz.]  Submitted by AGCS Lloyd Corbett USN RET



AGCS(AW) David Ronald Lunch, USN (Ret)
Oct. 30, 1939 – Feb. 22, 2020

AGCS(AW) David Ronald Lunch, USN (Ret)

Oct. 30, 1939 – Feb. 22, 2020


David Ronald Lunch, age 80 of Orlando, passed away Saturday, February 22, 2020. He was born October 30, 1939 in Vallejo, California. He retired from serving in the Navy after 26 years and retired from the US Government after 24 years of service.

David was a devoted family man. His compassion and charity were always present. A loving husband and father, a caring man to those around him, he embodied everything good about humanity. From the little surprises he gave to his wife, the unwavering devotion he showed his children, and the donations he made to those in need, David always reminded everyone of his heart, compassion, and love for those around him.

As an Aerographer’s Mate in the Navy, David enjoyed everything about the weather. He made sure everybody knew the types of clouds in the sky. For many years, he was a reader at the 5:00pm mass at Sts. Peter & Paul.

He also enjoyed word games and puzzles, golf with the family, ham radio, a good baseball game, and his San Francisco 49’ers.

David will be sorely missed and loved by the ones he touched. He will be remembered every day. May we always honor his beloved memory, his quiet strength, and his sweet smile. He was one-of-a-kind; he will never be replaced.

He is survived by his wife Elizabeth; children; Lynanne, Kimberly and David; sister, Darlene Woodbury; brothers, Richard and Robert Lunch; 7 grandchildren and 5 great-grandchildren.

A Mass of Christian Burial was held at 10:30 A.M. Monday, March 2nd at Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church, 5300 Old Howell Branch Rd. Winter Park, Florida. Burial took place at Sunset Cemetery in Galloway, Ohio. Arrangements entrusted to Baldwin Fairchild Funeral Home, Goldenrod Chapel 7520 Aloma Ave. Winter Park, Florida.

Submitted by AG1 Smith, USN (Ret)

Dave Lunch opened the Naval Forces Vietnam HQ, Saigon, WX program as the first AG forecaster assigned.  I became his relief while still in B School, fighting to not be assigned instructor duty in Lakehurst.  Actually, after my second Winter Over at McMurdo Station, DEEP FREEZE 66, I was penciled in for Dave's relief in Vietnam, providing I graduated from B School.  When I arrived in Saigon, 19 Sept. 1967, then run by the Army, it took us both five days riding the bus all over Saigon and Cholon, to check in/out.  On the last day before his flight out Dave dropped a bombshell on me, "Oh, by the way, you are required to make the annual Mekong River flood forecast."   Then he was gone.  We never crossed paths again.

 Submitted by LCDR Bruce DeWald, USN, (Ret)







CWO4 Paul D. Lyon, Sr., USN (Ret)
September 2, 1941 to October 7, 2021

Paul Dean Lyon, Sr., 80, of Milton, Florida, passed away, Thursday, October 7, 2021. Paul Sr. was born on September 2, 1941, in Detroit, Michigan, and was the last of seven children born to the late Earl and June Lyon. 
He was a high school graduate and entered the United States Navy in July 1959, at the young age of 17. Paul served his country for 28 years and retired from the military on March 31, 1987. 
Soon after military retirement he became employed with the Santa Rosa County School District at its Data Processing department and retired after 20 plus years of employment. He was a member of St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church for some time and was a member of the Knights of Columbus as well. 
Paul Sr. is preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Earl Lyon, Donald Lyon and David Lyon. He was also preceded in death by his wife of 59 years, Maria; and sons, Paul Jr. and Francisco. Paul Sr. is survived by his daughters, June Lyon of Pennsylvania, Valerie Lyon of Milton, Florida, and Elizabeth (Gregory) House of Milton, Florida; his son, Earl Lyon of Pensacola, Florida; seven grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; his sister, Valerie Marie Keller of Marion, Indiana; his brother, Harvey Joe Lyon of Crystal River, Florida; and many nieces and nephews. 
Services for Paul Lyon Sr. were held on Friday, October 15, 2021, at Lewis Funeral Home, Milton Chapel, with Monsignor Reed officiating. Burial followed at Serenity Gardens Cemetery with Military Honors, and Lewis Funeral Home directing. The family wishes to thank the caring staff of Covenant Hospice at West Florida Hospital for the love and care given to our father during his time of illness. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in our dad’s name may be made to: A Hope 5755 Washington St. Milton, FL. 32570 850-665-0511.

CWO4 Paul Dean Lyon, USN (Ret)

September 2, 1941 – October 7, 2021

 

Paul Dean Lyon, Sr., 80, of Milton, Florida, passed away, Thursday, October 7, 2021.

Paul Sr. was born on September 2, 1941, in Detroit, Michigan, and was the last of seven children born to the late Earl and June Lyon. He was a high school graduate and entered the United States Navy in July 1959, at the young age of 17. Paul served his country for 28 years and retired from the military on March 31, 1987. Soon after military retirement he became employed with the Santa Rosa County School District at its Data Processing department and retired after 20 plus years of employment. He was a member of St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church for some time and was a member of the Knights of Columbus as well.

Paul Sr. is preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Earl Lyon, Donald Lyon and David Lyon. He was also preceded in death by his wife of 59 years, Maria; and sons, Paul Jr. and Francisco.

Paul Sr. is survived by his daughters, June Lyon of Pennsylvania, Valerie Lyon of Milton, Florida, and Elizabeth (Gregory) House of Milton, Florida; his son, Earl Lyon of Pensacola, Florida; seven grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; his sister, Valerie Marie Keller of Marion, Indiana; his brother, Harvey Joe Lyon of Crystal River, Florida; and many nieces and nephews.

Services for Paul Lyon Sr. were held at 2:00 p.m., Friday, October 15, 2021, at Lewis Funeral Home, Milton Chapel, with Monsignor Reed officiating. Burial followed at Serenity Gardens Cemetery with Military Honors, Lewis Funeral Home directing.

The family wishes to thank the caring staff of Covenant Hospice at West Florida Hospital for the love and care given to our father during his time of illness.

Submitted by AGCM Pat O’Brien, USN (Ret)


Maria Dolores Lyon

Jan. 16, 1941 – Aug. 19, 2021

Wife of CWO4 Paul Dean Lyon, USN (Ret)


Maria Seren Mateos de Lyon, 80, of Milton, Florida, went home to be with the Lord Thursday, August 19, 2021 in a local care facility.

Maria was born in Los Palacios, Sevila, Spain, but grew up in El Porto de Santa Maria (Cadiz), Spain. She met her future husband, Paul D. Lyons on October, 12, 1960, while he was on tour in Spain with the U.S. Navy. She had been a resident of Northwest Florida since 1978 and was a member of St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church.

Maria is preceded in death by her sons, Paul D. Lyon, Jr. and Francisco Miguel "Big Mike" Lyon.

Maria is survived by her husband, Paul D. Lyon, Sr. of Milton, Florida; her daughters, June Lyon of Pennsylvania, Valerie Lyon of Milton, and Elizabeth (Gregory) House of Milton, Florida; her son, Earl Lyon of Pensacola, Florida; 7 grandchildren; 7 great-grandchildren; her sisters, Antonia Fernandez of Spain, Roscio Slack of Virginia, and Francisca Seren (Jose) of Spain; her brother, Francisco Seren (Loli) of Spain; and many nieces and nephews.

Funeral Mass was held at 10:00 a.m. Tuesday, August 24, 2021, at St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church, with Monsignor Michael Reed officiating. Burial followed at Serenity Gardens with Lewis Funeral Home directing.

Visitation was held before mass, from 9:00 - 10:00 a.m. at St. Rose of Lima.

The family would like to thank Santa Rosa Medical Center and the ER and ICU departments for their care. Also, Sandy Ridge Care Center for their care.

Submitted by AGCM Pat O’Brien, USN (Ret)




AGCS David Leroy Driggers, USN (Ret)

Jul. 17, 1930 – Nov. 17, 2022

 

David Leroy Driggers, formerly of Pensacola, FL, passed away in Shiloh, NC, on November 17, 2022.

 

David was born in July 1930 in Douglas, South Carolina. After graduating from Hebron High School, he enlisted in the United States Navy and served as an Aerographers Mate for 24 years. Dave was married to Alice Gloria Russell for 51 years and together they raised 3 children while traveling around the world to Navy duty stations at Weeksville, NC; Corry Station Pensacola, FL; San Diego, CA; Meridian, MS; Brunswick, GA; Port Lyautey Morocco; and Sangley Point Philippines. Dave served aboard the USS Cabot (CVL-28), USS Hornet (CV-12), and USS Lexington (CV-2). He ended his military career at NAS Pensacola, FL, where he retired from active duty as a Senior Chief in 1971, and subsequently continued his weather forecasting career as a civil servant at NAS Pensacola, retiring in 1994. Dave was a member of Fleet Reserve Association Branch 22, Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks 2108, Naval Weather Service Association, and VFW. He enjoyed bowling, traveling, spending time with family and friends and was passionate about playing golf.

 

Dave is survived by his wife of 17 years and travel buddy, Jane, son Michael Driggers (Denise), daughters Kathleen Bixel (Gil) and Christine Nicholson (Jack), stepson Steve Bradshaw (Sharon), brother Milton Driggers (Rita Kay), sister Margaret Tucker, grandchildren Michael, Kylie and Matthew, and numerous nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his first wife, Alice, brother Tony Driggers and stepson Michael Bradshaw.

 

In lieu of flowers, Dave requests that you make a donation to the Harry-Anna Trust Fund (BPOE #2108) or your favorite charity.

 

Visitation for David was held Tuesday, November 29, 2022 at 9:45 am at Oak Lawn Funeral Home. A graveside service immediately followed at Barrancas National Cemetery.

 

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.oaklawnfunerals.com for the Driggers family.

Submitted by AGCM Pat O’Brien, USN (Ret)



AG1 Kenneth J. Overholt, USN (Ret)

March 4, 1937 – January 18, 2023


Kenneth J Overholt, 85, passed away in his sleep at Sacred Heart Hospital, Pensacola, Florida on Wednesday, 18 January 2023.

Born 4 March 1937 in Freeport, Michigan, he was the son of Louis and Mary Overholt. While he began high school in Michigan, he graduated from Excelsior High School, Norwalk, California, in 1956. He won blue ribbons at the Los Angeles County Fair for the sheep he had raised for the FFA. Soon after, Ken joined the United States Navy, serving 21 years. His parents met Barbara as a surprise on the set of Truth or Consequences TV Show in California. He then married Barbara and they enjoyed 61 years of marriage together.

 

Some of Ken’s volunteer work included the Manna Food Bank, United Ministries, Boy Scout Leader, Elder of the Church, Church Session Member, a founding member of Northminster Presbyterian Church, Dogwood Acres Church Camp, and more. Ken travelled to South Africa several times working with their sister church doing mission work. He also loved baking treats for friends and family. Highly creative, Ken also did some of the most beautiful cake designs, roses, and all.

 

He is survived by his mother, Mary Alice Overholt, 105, his sister, Marcella Overholt, his brother, El Jay Overholt, his wife, Barbara Ann Overholt, his daughter, Susan E. Alpaugh, his son, Chuck K. Overholt, and his grandchildren, Kenneth C. Overholt, Naomi J Henry, and Bryce H. Overholt and many friends.

 

The internment will be held on Tuesday 24 January 2023 at Barrancas National Cemetery at 2 pm. Family and friends are meeting at Olive Baptist Church, New Warrington Campus, 103 W. Winthrop Ave, Pensacola, FL 32507 at 1:30pm for procession to Barrancas National Cemetery.

 

The Celebration of the Resurrection will be held at Northminster Presbyterian Church on 28 January 2023 at 11:00 am, luncheon to follow.

 

Submitted by AGCM Pat O’Brien, USN (Ret)




AGC Robert Leon Tomlin, USN (Ret)
December 21, 1939 - November 9, 2022

AGC Robert Leon Tomlin, USN (Ret)

December 21, 1939 - November 9, 2022

Mr. Robert Leon Tomlin (Chief Petty Officer, United States Navy, Retired), a resident of Ozark, Alabama, died early Wednesday morning, November 9, 2022, at his home. He was 82.

 

In keeping with the wishes of the family, there are no public services planned at this time. Fuqua Bankston Funeral Home of Ozark is in charge of arrangements.

Mr. Tomlin, son of the late D C Tomlin and Wilma Boswell Tomlin, was a native of Hartford, Alabama and was a graduate of Geneva High School. He enlisted in the United States Navy following high school, where he served twenty years and retired as a Chief Petty Officer. Mr. Tomlin was a Vietnam Veteran having served two tours. Following his military career, he was a Summa Cum Laude Graduate of Southeastern College in Lakeland, Florida where he received a Bachelor of Arts Degree. Mr. Tomlin was also retired from Lake Wales Senior High School, Lake Wales, Florida, as a history teacher after sixteen years of employment. He moved to Ozark in 2011, following his retirement.  Mr. Tomlin enjoyed spending time outdoors especially fishing.

Surviving relatives include his wife of sixty-two years, Nancy Cranmer Tomlin, Ozark; two sons, Eric Tomlin and Gregory Tomlin, both of Ocala, Florida; four grandchildren, Errin Tomlin, Robert Tomlin (PFC, United States Army), Nathan Tomlin(Corporal, United States Marine Corps), and Eric Tomlin, Jr.; a cousin, David Tomlin (Theresa), Ozark.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Robert Leon Tomlin please visit our Tribute Store.




Carmen Lee
Passed December 1, 2022
Widow of AGCS Daniel Lee, USN (Ret)

On December 1, 2022, Carmen Lee peacefully passed away at her home under the care of her closest family and friends who meant the world to her.

The daughter of Arthur and Jeanette Couture, she was the beloved wife of Daniel Lee for 59 years before his passing less than one year ago on December 9, 2021. Carmen was a loving mother of daughter Lynn and her man Sean, daughter Pamela, and son Brian and his wife Dana.

Carmen brought unwavering faith, love, and forgiveness into everyone's hearts throughout her entire life. Ever present as a big sister in the lives of her brothers Gilbert and Neal, and sister Vivian and their families, she was always there to offer encouragement and support all the years of their lives.

Forging an undeniable bond with her grandchildren JW, Brandon, Daniel, Jaclyn, Parker, and Shannon; great-grandchildren Kennedy and Sawyer, Carmen shared her passion of faith in God, cooking, snow skiing, gardening, music, and leading a healthy, fulfilling lifestyle. She created countless memories with her family, who will carry on her legacy of love and forgiveness for generations to come.

After relocating from her birthplace in Maine, Carmen met her husband Dan, a sailor in the United States Navy and relocated to several duty station assignments in Maryland, Virginia, and Iceland before finally retiring in Virginia Beach, VA. She created strong bonds within the Cape Story and Lagomar communities and cherished her time with extended family & friends throughout the area, at St. Johns the Apostle Catholic Parish, and Snowshoe, WV.

In addition to being a dear and devoted mother, grandmother, great grandmother, and friend, Carmen remained a constant source of love and inspiration to those around her. Carmen made a lasting impression on those who were honored to know her, and she truly made the world a better place.

Our deepest gratitude to H.D. Oliver Funeral Home for the coordination of arrangements. A visitation was held Dec. 18th at H.D. Oliver Funeral Apts., Laskin Road Chapel located in Virginia Beach. A Mass of Christian Burial took place Dec. 19th at St. John the Apostle Catholic Church. Online condolences may be offered to the family at hdoliver.com.

We appreciate your love and support during this difficult time. For those that truly knew Carmen, you know that she would ask that while we all take the time to celebrate her life, we make sure to take time to truly express the love you have for those closest and dearest to you.





AGC Verdene “Dean” K. Lighty, USN RET

January 29, 1932 - September 9, 2022


Verdene “Dean” K. Lighty, 90, of New Oxford, entered into the presence of his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on Friday, September 9, 2022 at Cross Keys Village, the Brethren Home Community.  He was the loving husband of the late Darlene “Frosty” W. (Frost) Lighty who died January 12, 2022.

 

Born January 29, 1932 in York Springs, he was the son of the late Travis Vincent and Mary Almeda (Paxton) Lighty.

 

Dean began his service to our country in the PA Army National Guard and later enlisted in the U.S. Navy, serving during the Korean and Vietnam wars.  He received the Meritorious Unit award and other war time medals.  Dean retired in November, 1973 after a total of 24 years of service.  He then worked with the National Park Service in Michigan, Indiana, Gettysburg and Maryland for 16 years.  Mr. Lighty also worked for five years as the supervisor of grounds maintenance at Hanover Hospital.

 

He was a member of the Fleet Reserve Association, life member of the NRA, Hanover VFW, Post 2506, Hanover Amvets, Post 22 and the Disabled American Veterans.  Dean attended and supported Hanover First Church of God.

 

Dean is survived by his sister-in-law, Delayne K. Morgan, Michigan and his nephew Timothy B. Morgan.

 

A committal service with military honors to Celebrate Dean’s life, was held on September 14, 2022 at Ft. Indiantown Gap National Cemetery, Indiantown Gap Rd., Annville, PA with Pastor Dan Thomas officiating.  

 

To share memories of Verdene “Dean” K. Lighty, please click on "Guestbook".





AGC (AW/NAC) Mary Eveld, USN (Ret)

December 4, 1955 to November 13, 2021


Mary Eveld, age 65, of Haughton, Louisiana passed away on Saturday, November 13, 2021. Mary was born December 4, 1955.


A memorial service for Mary was held on December 10, 2021 at Barksdale A.F.B., LA.


Fond memories and expressions of sympathy [See some below] may be shared at www.HillCrestMemorialFH.com for the Eveld family.


I'm saddened to hear of the loss of Ms. Mary. I had the opportunity to work with her for 6 years. She was tough as nails and expected a lot out of all her forecasters. She reminded us that Navy METOC (weather) was second to none but under her guidance she would show us the way to forecast correctly. She was feisty and sarcastic...I loved it. She was also a sweet woman who really cared for all the Airmen of the 26 OWS. She had an impact on me as a young Airman that I carry with me today. My condolences to the family of Mary and to the 26 OWS team.

Brian Smith

Extremely saddened to hear about the passing of Mrs. Mary. She was a Bandit legend and despite her tough demeanor, had a heart of gold. She was a fighter, and her presence will be missed at 26 OWS and beyond. Praying for peace and comfort for her family and all those she touched as they grieve this loss but celebrate her life and impact.
Brandon Alexander

Ms. Mary,
I along with everyone else still here at the 26th will miss seeing you come in the morning and brighten everyone's day. I spent half of my military career here with you. You are the closest work friend I've had since entering weather. I'll miss our football talks and making fun of new Lt's who try to draw fronts on tropical systems. There is a huge hole within the squadron now and will never be filled again. Miss you. RIP Mary.

Travis Geiger

Miss Mary was so much more than a trainer or weather guru. She filled the role of a mother/grandmother figure for many of us. There is not a soul that passed through the Barksdale "Hub" who wasn't touched in someway by her unrelenting spirit and unshakeable heart.
Rest In Peace / God Bless / Til Valhalla
Cody Howk



AG1 (NAC) David L. Reuscher, Jr., USN (Ret)

November 18, 1951 to October 4, 2020

David Lloyd Reuscher, Jr, age 68, of Long Beach, passed away on October 5, 2020. He was born on November 18, 1951 in Mississippi.

He was preceded in death by his first wife, Marie Reuscher; a son, Michael Reuscher; his parents, David L. Reuscher, Sr. and Laverne Reuscher.

Survivors include his wife of 5 years, Sunshine Reuscher; close friend, Onah Meyers; and other relatives and friends.

Mr. Reuscher retired from the U.S. Navy after 23 years of service. He later worked as a substitute school teacher at Long Beach High School and also, he worked for NAVO at Stennis Space Center. He was an active member of St. Thomas the Apostle Catholic Church where he was a member of the choir and served as a lector. He was a member of the Knights of Columbus Council 4898. He enjoyed playing softball for the Navy, sailing, and fishing. David will always be remembered by his distinctive laugh. One of his greatest times in the Navy was in Antarctica when he was working to rescue penguins.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be sent to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105.

The family will hold a private memorial service at a later date.

The RIEMANN FAMILY FUNERAL HOME, Long Beach, is serving the family and online condolences may be offered at www.riemannfamily.com



Ruth Ann Davis

May 10, 1946 – October 21, 2022

Wife of AGC Alan G. Davis, USN (Ret)

 

Ruth was born May 10th 1946 to the late Emile and Carolyn Vezina. She graduated from Toms River High school and went to nursing school in New York City and later received her Master’s Degree in Early Childhood Special Education from University of Nevada in Las Vegas. 

She was married to Alan for 52 years and is a past Queen of the Daughters of the Nile and President of the Social Order of the Beauceant. Ruth was an invaluable assistant in putting together the Las Vegas reunion.

She is survived by one daughter Michelle (Baker). There will be no funeral services as she has been cremated and memorial services will be held at a later date in Las Vegas Masonic lodge #32.

Submitted by husband: AGC Alan Davis USN (Ret)


Elizabeth N. Tokryman
April 2, 1940 to Oct. 7, 2022
Widow of AGCM Dick Tokryman, USN (Ret)

We are sad to announce that on October 7, 2022, at the age of 82, Elizabeth N Tokryman (Pensacola, Florida) passed away. Family and friends can send flowers and condolences in memory of the loved one. Leave a sympathy message to the family on the memorial page of Elizabeth N Tokryman to pay them a last tribute.

A funeral service was held on Monday, October 17th 2022 at 9:00 AM at the Trahan Family Funeral Home (419 Yoakum Ct, Pensacola, FL 32505). A burial was held on Monday, October 17th 2022 at 10:00 AM at the Barrancas National Cemetery (1 Cemetery Rd, Pensacola, FL 32508).



LCDR Lewis Eugene "Gene" Zeigler, USNR (Ret) 
August 10, 1929 to June 10, 2022

Age 92, of Springfield, passed away on June 10, 2022. He was born in Independence, West Virginia, on August 10, 1929, son of the late Amos and Mildred (Triplett) Zeigler. 


Gene proudly served his country during World War II, Korea and Vietnam in the United States Navy, working as a meteorologist. Following his military service, Gene was a high school math and science teacher for many years. He was a faithful member of Northside Baptist Church. Gene was an avid golfer, playing well into his 90's. Survivors include his daughter, Karen Zeigler. 


Gene was preceded in death by his first wife, Geneva Mae Zeigler in 2010. 


A celebration of Gene's life was held on June 20, 2022 at the LITTLETON & RUE FUNERAL HOME,  Pastor David Hill officiating. Entombment followed at Rose Hill Burial Park with military honors.


In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be made to the non-profit Best Friends Pet Assisted Therapy Organization, P.O. Box 595, Springfield, Ohio 45501-0595. Expressions of sympathy may be shared by visiting www.littletonandrue.com.


Published by Springfield News Sun on Jun. 16, 2022.






Paulnetta “Pat” Henrietta Burnell

November 8, 1929 to July 24, 2022

Widow of AGCM Dale A. Burnell, USN (Ret)


Paulnetta “Pat” Henrietta Burnell, 92, of Varna, Illinois, died on Sunday, July 24, 2022, in Henry, Illinois, at Henry Rehab and Nursing.

Pat was born on November 8, 1929, in Wilburn, Illinois, to the late Adolf and Emma (Meier) Strauch. She graduated from LaRose High School and worked for Vernon Henry as a bookkeeper right after graduation. Pat married Dale A. Burnell on May 7, 1950. They were married for 50 years before Dale passed in May of 2000. Pat and Dale travelled wherever the Navy sent them; they enjoyed meeting and making friends along the way. Pat worked for the Social Security Administration in Bloomington and for the USDA Agricultural Research Lab in Peoria before she retired. In her retirement, Pat and Dale took up wheat weaving and woodworking. They spent many Octobers at Dollywood in Tennessee, entertaining visitors with their crafts and Pat’s marimba playing.

Pat was a member of the Trinity Lutheran Church in LaRose, American Legion Auxiliary and the National Wheat Weavers Association.

Surviving Pat are her three children, Diny Burnell of Macomb, Illinois, Dave (Carol) Burnell of Cave Creek, AZ, and Theresa (Vinny) McCrum of Clarksville, TN; grandchildren, Donald (Krissy) Harward of Seattle, Candace McCrum of Milwaukee, Michael (Lauren) Burnell of Boerne, TX, and Kathleen (Jonathan) Olson of Phoenix; four great-granddaughters, Ava, Lily, Ella and Alice; with fresh new great-grandbabies coming in August and another due Christmas day. Pat was also preceded in death by her infant daughter, Jody Ann; and sisters, Arnolda “Tootie” Schumacher, Clarice Schlink and infant sister, Etta Pauline.

Funeral services for Pat will be held Thursday, July 28, at 10 a.m. at Lenz Memorial Home in Lacon, with the Rev. Peter Glock officiating. Burial will be in the Trinity Lutheran Cemetery in LaRose, immediately following services.

Memorials can be made to Trinity Lutheran Cemetery or the USO and online condolences can be left at lenzmemorialhome.com.

Posted online on July 26, 2022

Published in Peoria Journal Star




Charline Johnson

December 11, 1941 to May 11, 2022

Wife of AGC Bobby Johnson, USN (Ret)


Charline Johnson sadly passed away on May 11, 2022. Charline was born on December 11, 1941, to Lee W Bracken and Gladys Bracken in their family home in Louisiana.


She lived a full life surrounded by her family and many, many friends. She and Bobby W Johnson were married 62 years. Bobby fondly recalls the first time they met shooting a rifle together, when she was 17 and he was 22 in Smithville, MS. Their second meeting was when they married on June 6, 1959. Together they began their life and family together. They have a daughter, Teresa McGowens (Jacksonville, FL), a son Robert W Johnson (Cypress, TX) seven grandchildren and ten great-grandchildren.


Charline retired from her first career with The Navy Exchange during and after travelling with Bobby in the US Navy. Stations included: Newport RI, Rota Spain, Lake Hurst NJ, Beeville TX, NAS Guam, Orlando, FL, Meridian MS and Jacksonville FL. She immediately began her second career and retired from Walmart after seventeen years. Wherever in the world Charline lived and worked, she was loved by family, employers, employees and friends.

 

Everyone whose path crossed Charline got to experience her sincere love and compassion firsthand. She especially loved and enjoyed all children. Charline enjoyed entertaining and cooking for friends and family; Friday night card games were a staple. After living around the world, Charline continued to travel, especially cruises, where she could frequently be found playing penny slots. She has an extensive spoon collection from her own, and others travels.

Family and friends celebrated her life on May 28, 2022, at the Fleet Reserve Association, 5391 Collins Road. Jacksonville, FL.

 



AGCM Raymond L. Plattner, USN (Ret)
July 6, 1941 - April 12, 2022

Tacoma , Washington - Raymond L. Plattner, a proud veteran of the US Navy, passed away at the age of 80 on April 12, 2022. Raymond was the son of Frank and Anna Plattner and was born in Tacoma, WA July 6, 1941. 

At the age of 17 Raymond enlisted in the U.S. Navy. He attained the rank of E9 and as a Command Master Chief retired after 22 years of honorable service. Raymond went on to work for Boeing and retired as a Procurement Director after a successful 22 years. 

Raymond was preceded in death by his parents, Frank and Anna; his sister Vickie Ulrich; and his son Ray Plattner Jr. Raymond is survived by his three daughters; Alicia Hamm-Honza, Nicole Plattner, and Kristina Puglia. 

A Committal Service with full military honors was held at Tahoma National Cemetery on May 10th. Memorials may be made to the Paralyzed Veterans of America in Lieu of flowers. His loved ones will remember his generosity, broad intelligence, and loving nature.


Published by News Tribune (Tacoma) on Apr. 24, 2022.



Robert William Titus, USN (Ret)
October 19, 1926 – May 5, 2022 (age 95)

CAPT Robert William Titus, USN (Ret)

October 19, 1926 – May 4, 2022 (age 95)


Robert W. Titus passed away on May 4, 2022; age 95.  Bob, a third generation Nevadan, was born on 19 October, 1926 to Louis and Eva Titus.  He attended elementary and high school in Reno, Nevada.  He entered the US Naval Academy in July, 1945 with the class of 1949.  His first duty assignment was on the Springfield (CL-66), then the Boxer (CV-21), through 3 tours to Korea.   Next duty was on Allen M. Sumner (DD-692).  Sent to USNPG, Monterey, he received a BS in Aerological Engineering.  This led to duty at Fleet Weather Centrals (FWC) Kodiak, Alaska and Seattle, Washington.  After one year at FWC Seattle, he resigned and accepted a commission in the Reserve.  Serving in a variety of units, he was commanding officer of surface unit 12-49(M) in Reno and of Naval Oceanography unit NORA 2276 at Point Pugu.

Accepting a position with the US Antarctic Research Program, he spent thirteen months at Hallett Station, Antarctica as Station Scientific Leader and Meteorologist in Charge during Operation DEEP FREEZE 60-61.  From this service, he has a mountain named for him in Victoria Land, Antarctica.

Upon his return to the US, he accepted a position with the Air Resources Field Research Office (ARFRO) providing meteorological and radiological support to the nation’s nuclear weapons testing program at the Nevada Test Site (NTS).  While at NTS, he received an AEC scholarship completing the master’s program in Atmospheric Science at the University of Washington.  With almost thirty years at NTS, his final position was Meteorologist in Charge of the Weather Service Nuclear Support Office.  After retirement, he continued to be associated with the NTS as a consultant. 

He was a professional member of the American Meteorological Society, a life member and past national president of the Naval Weather Service Association as well as other military and civic organizations.

He was married to his wife Sylvy Geraghty Titus for 50 years.  From his first marriage, he had four children: three boys, Bruce, Gregory and Jeffrey and a daughter Patricia.  He is survived by his remaining children, one grandchild, Melissa Titus, and extended family.  He was preceded in death by his parents, wife and son Jeffrey.

Funeral services were held at Mountain View Mortuary in Reno on May 16, with interment at Mountain View Cemetery.


LCDR William “Bill” D. Bridge, USN (Ret)

November 23, 1928 – July 12, 2021


On July 12, 2021, William "Bill" David Bridge of San Diego, California, passed away in his home with his children by his side at the age of 92.


Bill was born on November 23, 1928, in Latrobe, Pa. He graduated from Latrobe High school and attended college at Saint Vincent College, where he earned his degree in meteorology and chemistry.

Bill dreamed of going to the moon and joined the US Navy after watching the news reals of Naval Aviators flying in World War II. He thought an Aviator pilot would be the best pilot for the job of an astronaut. He joined the Navy in 1947 and became a Naval Aviator in 1948. He retired from the US Navy in 1968 after many years of service. After his retirement, Bill worked for the San Diego Hall of Science and was the technical services manager for the San Diego Ruben H. Fleet Space and Science Center.

In addition to his love of flying, he loved boating. He was a lifetime member of the Order of Daedalians, San Diego Power and Sailboat Squadron, San Diego Observers, Coast Guard Axillary. He was a substitute teacher for the San Diego School District for oceanography. He volunteered for the USS Midway and Maritime Museum. For 17 years he volunteered for the Retired Senior Volunteer Police (RSVP). He loved to bring joy to children as Santa along with his Elf, Marian Bridge, and was Mc Gruff the crime dog for the SD Police.


He is survived by his children with Mary J. Bridge (Foster), William David Bridge Jr. (Rhonda), Gail M. Hart (David), Diane E. Hancock (Robert), and his stepchildren with Marian Bridge (Hatchett), Gary Hatchett (Sunny), Clint Hatchett (Grace), Holly M. Hatchett (Roy Buckner), his friend Don Caton, nieces, nephews, numerous grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.


His burial at sea and Celebration of Life were held on August 31, 2021. Please contact Diane Hancock for information at Discotties12@gmail.com

 

Published by the San Diego Union-Tribune August 12-15, 2021.

 

Submitted by AG1 Steven Smith, USN (Ret)




AGC Richard "Dick" Rice, USN (Ret)

September 15, 1940 - January 16, 2021 (age 80)


MOOREVILLE – Richard “Dick” Rice, 80, legendary and celebrated Chief Meteorologist Emeritus, for WTVA-Tupelo Television, died from complications due to the Covid-19 Virus at 5:30 PM Saturday, January 16, 2021, at North Miss. Medical Center in Tupelo. Dick and his late wife, Jill, moved to Tupelo in 1979 after his brilliant full career in the U. S. Navy, and have made their home in Mooreville since. Jill died on Nov. 17, 2020. Richard Thomas Rice was born on Sept. 15, 1940, in Ware, Mass. to the late Thomas and Jean Lech Rice. He attended public schools there, ultimately enlisting in the U. S. Navy. He did his basic training at Millington, TN Naval Station where he met Jilda “Jill” White of Memphis. They were married on Sept. 24, 1960.


Chief Petty Officer Rice served as a meteorologist on ships around the globe during his 20-year military career. He would predict weather patterns and sea swells as well as forecast ballistic winds and densities in the atmosphere for missile launches. Dick and Jill moved to Tupelo in July 1979 where he began an illustrious career as Northeast Mississippi’s weatherman even up till his death. He became a household “family figure” to literally thousands and found great joy in speaking to civic groups and especially school children about his job and career. Many children were introduced to Dick as the “Santa Tracker” every Christmas Eve.


A great part of Dick’s legacy will be the mentoring he did for his colleagues at WTVA Television station in Tupelo.  He was a “go to” man for advice, counseling, fun and direction in life as well as in the profession of broadcasting.  Outside TV, Dick was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather.  He adored Jill and his children and was a doting grandfather to the grands and great-grands.  A great lover of God’s creation, Dick was a master gardener known most especially for growing prized tomatoes every year at his home in Mooreville. He loved sharing the produce with his colleagues and friends everywhere. Dick and Jill were members of the Eggville Church of Christ.

Per his request, a private family graveside service was held at Lee Memorial Park in Verona with his grandson, John, speaking. Condolences or personal reflections of Dick’s life may be emailed to hollandfuneraldirectors@comcast.net.


Dick is survived by his daughter, Debbie Rice Vines and her husband, Grady, of Mooreville; three grandchildren, John Vines (Courtney) of Saltillo, Robert Vines (Kimberly) of Etta, and Scotty Vines of Mooreville; 3 great-grandchildren, Lauren, Aaryn and Chloe Vines; his brother, David Rice (Patty) and sister, Eileen Chrabascz (Rich) of Somers, Conn.; and several nieces and nephews. Dick was preceded in death by his parents, his wife, Jill, and his son, Gary.


Honorary pallbearers were present and former members of the staff of WTVA Television in Tupelo. The family requests that memorials in Dick’s memory be made to Sanctuary Hospice House, P. O. Box 2177, Tupelo, MS 38802.   Cards may be mailed to the Rice Family at 5281 Cliff Gookin Blvd., Tupelo, MS. 38801. Holland Funeral Directors is honored to be serving their friends. To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Dick Rice please visit our Tribute Store.


Dick Rice Beloved Mississippi TV Meteorologist Dies from COVID-19





Jilda O. "Jill" Rice

November 17, 1942 - November 17, 2020 (age 78)

Wife of AGC Richard "Dick" Rice, USN (Ret)


MOOREVILLE – Jilda "Jill" Ophelia Rice passed away on November 17, 2020, her 78th birthday, at Sanctuary Hospice House after a long battle with Alzheimer's disease. She was born on November 17, 1942, in Memphis, Tennessee to the late Willie Clyde White and Mary Lavelle Rowan White.


On September 24, 1960, she married Richard Thomas Rice of Ware, Massachusetts and together they spent 20 years in the Navy before moving to Mooreville, MS in 1979. She was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, and great grandmother. She loved spending time with her family and her kitties. She was also a Black Belt in Taekwondo and won many medals for her age group. She was a member of Eggville Church of Christ.


She is survived by her husband of 60 years, Dick Rice of Mooreville; one daughter, Debbie Vines (Grady) of Mooreville, MS; three grandsons, John Vines (Courtney) of Saltillo, MS, Robert Vines (Kimberly) of Etta, MS, and Scotty Vines of Mooreville, MS. She had three great-grandchildren, Lauren Vines of Etta, MS, Aaryn Vines of Mooreville, MS, Chloe Vines of Saltillo, MS. One sister Linda Teel of Ardmore, Oklahoma and two brothers Richard White of Munford, Tennessee and David White of Horn Lake, MS., Brother-in-law David Rice (Patty) of Palmer, Mass., Sister-in-law Eileen Rice Chrabascz (Rich) of Somers, CT. A special young lady that was very dear to her Joy-Beth Umfress. She also had several nieces and nephews.


She was preceded in death by her son Gary Rice who died December 5, 1999. Her parents, and two sisters Marie Jacques and Mary Evelyn Tuck.


A celebration of Jill’s life was held November 21, 2020 in the Tupelo Chapel of Holland Funeral Directors with her grandson John Vines officiating. Private burial will be at Lee Memorial Gardens in Verona, MS.


Pallbearers will be Robert Vines, Scotty Vines, John Dolusic , Matt Laubhan , Tim Brock, and Gerald Harville. Honorary Pallbearer will be her Great-Grandson Aaryn Vines.


In lieu of flowers memorials can be made to the Tupelo Humane Society, Sanctuary Hospice House, or Alzheimer's Association. Condolences may be posted at hollandfuneraldirectors.com.




AGC Joseph D. Mickesh, USN (Ret)

May 15, 1927 to May 13, 2021


Joseph David “Joe” Catfish” Mickesh, 93, of Pomona Park, passed away on Thursday, May 13, 2021 at his home following an extended illness. A native of DeMoines, Iowa, Joe was drafted in 1945 out of his senior year in high school and served a year in the U.S. Marine Corp. He then reenlisted with the U.S. Navy where he served as a meteorologist forecasting seas and swells and flights. He retired in 1965 as a Chief Aerographer’s Mate following 20 years of faithful service.


He then worked as a meteorologist with Alwex Weather Corporation in Washington, D.C. In 1972, Joe or “Catfish” as he became affectionately known, moved to Pomona Park and owned and operated Bass Capital Marine for 15 years. He also had worked several other jobs including with Ditto Marine, as a commercial fisherman and for a time was a service tech at the Chevrolet Dealership in Crescent City. Joe was a member of the Fleet Reserve and loved to fish and work on outboard motors. Joe is remembered by his family as a sweet, gentle, funny Dad whose love for them knew no bounds. He will be forever loved by his family.


He was preceded in death by his wife, Betty Jane Mickesh, a daughter, Virgean Greene, 2 brothers, George Mickesh and Clarence Mickesh as well as a sister, Dolores Smith.

 

Joe is survived by a son, Joe Mickesh, Jr. (Susan) of Lake Como, 7 grandchildren, Jessie Greene (Paige), Theresa Ruggiero (Jesse), Elizabeth Huyn (Huy), Toni Mickesh, Eugene Berrill (Cortnee), Joseph Mickesh, III and 9 great-grandchildren, Dayton Melton, Ethan Berrill, Talia Ruggiero, Rae Ruggiero, Siena Greene, Josie Greene, J.P. Greene, Vy Huyn and Wess Huyn.


Graveside services were May 28, 2021 at Palatka Memorial Gardens with Rev. Michael Davis officiating. No public visitation was scheduled.


In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial donations be sent to Haven Hospice Roberts Care Center, 6400 St. Johns Ave., Palatka, FL 32177.

 

Memories and condolences may be expressed to the family at Joe’s Book of Memories page at www.johnsonoverturffunerals.com.


Arrangements were entrusted to Johnson-Overturf Funeral Home in Palatka.





AGC William W. Sheppard, USN (Ret)

February 11, 1942 to April 10, 2022


William Woodrow Sheppard, Sr., (Bill) age 80, passed away on April 10, 2022, in Warner Robins, Ga. Bill was born to parents Riah Ransom Sheppard and Evangelene Booth Sheppard on February 11, 1942, in Washington, North Carolina.


Bill graduated high school from Hillsborough High School in Tampa, Florida in 1960, where he ran track and cross country. Bill joined the United States Navy in the summer of 1960. He spent 28.3 faithful years as an Aviation Aerographer (AG) in the Navy before he retired in 1988 as a Chief Petty Officer (AGC). Bill served in Vietnam, he was awarded the Bronze Star and Purple Heart.


Bill's favorite thing to do was spending time with family and friends. He loved to meet new people and tell many stories. He was beloved in every community he lived in, and he always made people around him have a good laugh.


He was also a referee for many sports such as football, baseball, softball, volleyball, and his favorite sport girls fast pitch softball. He enjoyed spending time watching football, baseball, and College basketball. Bill was inducted into the Eastern Virginia Officials Association Hall of Fame in 2004.


Bill was a devoted family man; he absolutely adored his wife Ann of 59 years. After being retired from the Navy, Bill worked as a civil service Aviation Aerographer program manager at NAS Norfolk in Norfolk, Virginia for 17 years before retiring from the civil service.


Bill is preceded in death by Evanglene Sheppard and Riah Sheppard (Parents), Robert R. Sheppard (Brother) and Robert T. Sheppard (Son).


Bill is survived by Betty Ann Sheppard (Wife), Elton Sheppard (Brother), William Woodrow (Woody) Sheppard, Jr. (Son), Kevin Michael Sheppard (Son), and Tracie Lynn Sheppard-Yerby (Daughter). Along with grandchildren: Steven, Christian, Chynna, Austin, Paulette, MaKayla, Allison, Zackery, Ransom, Tyler, Noah and great-grandchildren Mercedes, John (L.J.), and Allison.


A service was held at Burpee-Scott Memorial Chapel & Crematory on Saturday, April 23, 2022, with a small reception following afterwards.


To send flowers to the family of William Woodrow Sheppard Sr., please visit our Heartfelt Sympathies Store.


Published by Burpee-Scott Memorial Chapel & Crematory on Apr. 11, 2022.




AG1 Edward J. Herman, USN (Ret)

Passed May 26, 2018 at Age 79

 

Edward J. Herman, 79, of Point Pleasant Beach, passed away, Saturday, May 26, 2018.

 

Born in Jersey City to the late Edward and Irene (Barrett) Herman, he was raised in Bogota and has lived in Point Pleasant Beach for over forty years.

 

Mr. Herman retired from the United States Navy and served aboard the USS Lexington and USS Intrepid during Vietnam. After that, he worked as a special education teacher at the Ocean County Vocational Technical School, Brick, for twenty years.

 

A graduate of Trenton State University, he was a private pilot and member of the Monmouth Area Flying Club, Allaire.

 

He is survived by his beloved wife, of forty years, Susan (DeVoe Dempsey) Herman; and his sons, Kurt Herman and Edward W. Herman, and his daughter, Nicholee Valentine. Also surviving are his brother, Mark Herman (Julia); three sisters, Deanna Baldeschwieler, Irene Engel, and Barbara Dowling (Douglas); one grandson, Garret Valentine; two step-sons, Wayne Dempsey (Moira) and Guy Dempsey (Carol); three grandchildren, Maeve, Melissa (Stephen), and Christopher; and three great granddaughters, Claire, Piper, and Emma.

 

Services were private.

 

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Point Pleasant First Aid and Emergency Squad, 611 Laurel Ave., Point Pleasant Beach, NJ 08742 www.pointbeachems.org

 

For condolences, please visit www.pableevertzfuneralhome.com.


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AG1 Lee A. Heicher, USN (Ret)

Passed November 20, 2021 at age 71


My name is Mary Heicher and my husband of 53 years, Lee Heicher, passed peacefully in his sleep on 11/20/2021 after a long fought battle with cancer, pneumonia, and Ankylosing Spondylitis.

 

Lee was a Navy veteran of 20 years and the most kindhearted individual that the world could offer. He always knew how to brighten up someone's mood and make them smile. Lee took everything that life had to offer and lived it to its fullest extent.


Submitted by LCDR Rob Josephs, USN (Ret) with the following remembrance:


I came across this information by accident today. Lee was a shipmate of mine. Good man. Good sailor. We were stationed together at NWSED Andrews AFB Maryland in the mid to late 1970s. RIP shipmate. Here is a link about Lee: https://www.gofundme.com/f/help-pay-for-my-husbands-cremation-costs



Eileen M. Quinn Fifield, 84, went home to be with the Lord on Good Friday, April 15, 2022. She was born in New York to the late Mary and Christopher O’Farrell. She was predeceased by her son Timothy, her husband of 47 years, Michael Quinn, and husband Charles Fifield.
In her forties, she proudly graduated from George Mason University with a degree in Gerontology and Medical Records. She then became the Administrator at Burke Lake Gardens. Throughout Eileen’s life, she volunteered in various capacities in the community, her church and charitable organizations that touched the lives of many. Eileen was a loving mother, grandmother, great grandmother, sister and friend. She leaves a legacy of service, faith and compassion.
She leaves to cherish her memory two daughters Kathy (Mark) Cook, Anne (John) Bonner, son Joe (Jenny) Quinn. She also leaves 11 grandchildren, Kristin, Tim, Kelly, Tommy, Mike, Chris, Danny, Pete, Billy, Mary and Rose; three great grandchildren, Reid, Cali and Derrick; and her sister Sr. Kathleen O’Farrell, many other relatives and friends.
The visitation will be held 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm Monday, April 18, 2022 at Oman Funeral Home. The funeral service will be held 10:00 am Tuesday at St. Stephen, Martyr, the burial will follow at Chesapeake Memorial Gardens. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to the American Parkinson’s Disease Association.
Eileen M. Quinn Fifield, 84, went home to be with the Lord on Good Friday, April 15, 2022. She was born in New York to the late Mary and Christopher O’Farrell. She was predeceased by her son Timothy, her husband of 47 years, Michael Quinn, and husband Charles Fifield.
In her forties, she proudly graduated from George Mason University with a degree in Gerontology and Medical Records. She then became the Administrator at Burke Lake Gardens. Throughout Eileen’s life, she volunteered in various capacities in the community, her church and charitable organizations that touched the lives of many. Eileen was a loving mother, grandmother, great grandmother, sister and friend. She leaves a legacy of service, faith and compassion.
She leaves to cherish her memory two daughters Kathy (Mark) Cook, Anne (John) Bonner, son Joe (Jenny) Quinn. She also leaves 11 grandchildren, Kristin, Tim, Kelly, Tommy, Mike, Chris, Danny, Pete, Billy, Mary and Rose; three great grandchildren, Reid, Cali and Derrick; and her sister Sr. Kathleen O’Farrell, many other relatives and friends.
The visitation will be held 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm Monday, April 18, 2022 at Oman Funeral Home. The funeral service will be held 10:00 am Tuesday at St. Stephen, Martyr, the burial will follow at Chesapeake Memorial Gardens. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to the American Parkinson’s Disease Association.

Eileen M. Quinn Fifield
Passed April 15, 2022 at Age 84
Widow of AGCM Charles "Chuck" Fifield, USN (Ret)

Eileen M. Quinn Fifield, 84, went home to be with the Lord on Good Friday, April 15, 2022. She was born in New York to the late Mary and Christopher O’Farrell. She was predeceased by her son Timothy, her husband of 47 years, Michael Quinn, and husband Charles Fifield.

In her forties, she proudly graduated from George Mason University with a degree in Gerontology and Medical Records. She then became the Administrator at Burke Lake Gardens. Throughout Eileen’s life, she volunteered in various capacities in the community, her church and charitable organizations that touched the lives of many. Eileen was a loving mother, grandmother, great grandmother, sister and friend. She leaves a legacy of service, faith and compassion.

She leaves to cherish her memory two daughters Kathy (Mark) Cook, Anne (John) Bonner, son Joe (Jenny) Quinn. She also leaves 11 grandchildren, Kristin, Tim, Kelly, Tommy, Mike, Chris, Danny, Pete, Billy, Mary and Rose; three great grandchildren, Reid, Cali and Derrick; and her sister Sr. Kathleen O’Farrell, many other relatives and friends.

The visitation was held on Monday,  April 18, 2022 at Oman Funeral Home. The funeral service was held Tuesday at St. Stephen, Martyr, the burial followed at Chesapeake Memorial Gardens. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to the American Parkinson’s Disease Association.


AGC Albert J. “Jack” Garman USN RET\
Passed Mar 16 2022 at age 89. Houston, TX

AGC Albert J. “Jack” Garman USN (Ret)

Passed March 16, 2022 at age 89

Jack attended boot camp at NTC Bainbridge Maryland in March of 1952. After his first tour in the Navy he joined the Naval reserve and went back on active duty in July of 1958.  

During his second tour he rated into the Aerographer's mate rate as a third class and was at Fleet Weather Center Rota Spain. After his tour in Spain, he spent time on the ice with Operation Deep Freeze (Det 3) from Jun 62 to Mar 64. His other tours took him to the Joint Typhoon Warning Center in Guam to the remote weather station on ChiChi Jima Japan and eventually to the Fleet Weather Facility in Yokosuka Japan in 1968. Jack also was stationed in Whidbey Island and Okinawa. His final tour of duty was at the Fleet Numerical Oceanography Center in Monterey California where he retired from active duty with over 20 years of service.

After Retirement Jack moved the family to Houston Texas where he spent the next 18 years working for Universal Weather and Aviation as a Forecaster and flight follower. 


He is survived by his Spouse Yoko of 52 years, and his son LCDR USN Retired James Garman and his grandson Gunnar.





Helen A. Willis

December 10, 1935 to February 12, 2022

Widow of AG1 Billy D. Willis, USN (Ret)


Helen Ann McMahon Willis passed away peacefully on February 12, 2022, at her home in Oakdale, CA. She was born December 10, 1935, to Leonard and Margaret McMahon in Yeagertown, PA. 


Helen Ann is survived by her four daughters Terry Willis, Kelly Spratling (Ronnie), Tracy Willis, Jennifer Parkinson (Jason), seven grandchildren, 10 great-grandchildren and two great-great grandsons. 


Helen Ann was a fashion diva who owned and operated a woman’s fashion store in Escalon, CA named after her “Helen Ann’s Fashions” for 17 years. She has proceeded to heaven to be with her beloved son Bernie Lyn McMahon.


The Escalon (Calif.) Times

Published: Mar 15, 2022




AGC Glenda J. Haskell, USN (Ret)

May 6, 1939 to March 4, 2017


Arrangements under the direction of ALL FAITHS Orlando, ORLANDO, FL.

 

September 24, 2017

AG1 Haskell was my CC in 1978 (#3058). She taught me many things I still remember-- like that if you blow off a bootcamp watch just because you deem it trivial or meaningless in some way, you'd still be making excuses when it "mattered." That's only the smallest bit of the wisdom I got from her and keep to this day. I always admired the moxie it must have taken to join the Navy when she did because it wasn't exactly a walk in the park for me. Because of her, I have always loved weather, "weather guessers," and strong, smart women in power. May she walk, sail, glide or fly in beauty and peace whether CaVU or W0X0F.

~ Lisa Elliott, Wichita, Kansas


June 17, 2017

Fair winds and following seas. You were one of a kind and always in my heart. Rest In Peace.

~ Betty-Lou Collett, Flinton, Pennsylvania|

May 04, 2017

I was stationed with Glenda at Barber's Point Hawaii 1965-68. I always enjoyed the shifts I worked with her. The job always came first and she was good at whatever job she did.

~ Jim Cerullo, Boynton Beach, Florida

 

April 24, 2017

I had Glenda Haskell as my CC in boot camp Jan 01-Feb 28 1979. She was tough and demanded perfection. I really liked her and respected her. I ran into her years later in Charleston, SC and she kept her decorum and toughness the whole time. I even got a couple smiles out of her. Rest in peace Glenda or as we said "yes CC";

~ Tammy Camp(Salmon), Newark, Ohio

March 10, 2017

Glenda was the sharpest WAVE in the Navy. Met her in 1965 at Barbers Pt HI and remained friends all these yrs. The consummate 'weather guesser'. and expert wood craftsman in retirement.

~ Diana Nichols, Foley, Alabama




LCDR Dennis J. "Denny" Stewart, USN (Ret)
May 31, 1933 to March 9, 2022

Retired Navy Lieutenant Commander Dennis J. Stewart, 88, fought his final battle March 9 at his home in Virginia Beach. 

He proudly served in the Vietnam War and other conflicts during his 20-year Naval career. He was a Navy-trained meteorologist. In addition to two Navy Commendations, he also received other special citations: Meritorious Unit Citation, Armed Forces Expeditionary Metal, Vietnam Service Metal, Vietnam Campaign Metal, National Defense Service Metal, and the Republic of Vietnam Meritorious Unit Citation Gallantry Cross Color. He graduated with suma cum laude honors from Siena College in Albany, New York.

After his illustrious Naval career, he continued his education and received a master's degree in science and taught at Old Dominion college for many years.

Denny was best known for his humor and clever stories. He would recall his days as a youngster in downtown Albany collecting scraps of salvage metal during WWII with his beloved sister, Mary. He also had many well-told narratives about his service years in the Navy.

He took great pride in serving for more than 20 years on the Kempsville Volunteer Rescue Squad. As one of its longest serving volunteers, he was considered a life member of the Squad. When he turned 87 during COVID, the squad formed a 20+vehicle parade including engines and cars that drove past his house to wish him a Happy Birthday--a sight few in his neighborhood will forget. And he was blessed with wonderful neighbors who looked after him for many years. The City of Virginia Beach also honored Denny in 2006 with a special Administrative Member Award for his outstanding performance, dedication and support given to the volunteer rescue service.

He was proceeded in death by his mother and father, Harold and Mary Stewart of Albany, New York. His two sisters Joan and Mary also made a path for him to join the family. Mary's husband, Peter Lisosky passed as well and was one of his dearest friends. Denny, Mary and Peter often travelled together and shared many great stories.

He left behind his niece Kathleen Rose Leahey, R.N. who looked after him during his difficult time of transition, his niece Joanne Lisosky and her husband Michael Darcher and nephew Peter Lisosky. His family also included his great nieces, Carey Steingraber and Bailey (Lisosky) Kruger, great nephews William Leahey, Peter Aleander Leahey and Patrick Lisosky as well as two great-great nieces, Maggy and Willa and one great-great nephew, Raymond.

He will also be dearly missed by his adopted family in Virginia Beach, the Grants. His life-long friend, Carla and her seven children: Michael Grant, Kevin Grant, Megan Grant Hughes (Joel), Sean Grant, Joseph Grant, Bridget Grant Overstreet and Tara Grant Fisher.

Denny would be delighted for us to mention that he was a staunch Ravens fan who adorned his home in Virginia Beach with every kind of Raven's memorabilia.

The family held an "Irish Wake" for his friends at his home on March 12th. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Kempsville Rescue Squad. Condolences may be offered at www.vacremationsociety.com.



AGC Geneva Louise Anna Woods, USN (Ret)

May 18, 1921 to October 12, 2021


Chief Petty Officer, Geneva Louise Anna Woods, age 100, of Pensacola, Florida passed away on Tuesday, October 12, 2021 peacefully in her home. Geneva was born May 18, 1921 in Prairie Farm, Wisconsin.

Geneva took the oath on July 2, 1943 and became part of the WAVES. Soon after WWII was over, she then became one of the first women to enlist in the regular Navy. After many tours and fond memories which included marrying her husband, Chief Warrant Officer, Harry J. Woods, in June of 1953. She retired from the Navy on February 2, 1963.

She is preceded in death by her Husband, Harry J. Woods; and all of her eight siblings.

Geneva is survived by her daughter, Sabrina Ann Crowder (John); six grandchildren, Brittney, Cheyenne, Destiny, William, and six great grandchildren (soon to be seven), Wynter, Jaxon, Kailee, Kimber, Greyson, Bailey, and Elliot due March 2022, all of whom reside in Tennessee and Tami Sederquist of Panama City, Fl an Keri Magazinovic of Ripon, California.

Visitation for Geneva took place on Thursday, October 21, 2021 at Oak Lawn Funeral Home. A Graveside service immediately followed at Barrancas National Cemetery with full military honors. 

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.oaklawnfunerals.com for the Woods family.





AGCS Ronald A. “Ron” Pritchard, USN (Ret)

Passed February 16, 2022 at Age 81


Ronald Arrington Pritchard left this world February 16th at the young age of 81.


He was born in Henderson, North Carolina to John and Emma Pritchard, he is survived by his younger brother John Pritchard, many loving cousins, nephews, and nieces. Ron was father to Sybil Pritchard (Craig) Haynes, grandfather to Grayson Haynes and stepfather to Stephen and Kate Behnken - he embraced all his family roles seriously and with great love.

Ron grew up in Henderson and after High School chose to join the Navy to serve his country and to see the world. He served for 28 years and enjoyed many adventures. The highlight of his Navy career was his role in the development of the Navy-wide Overseas Diplomacy Program which culminated for him in Sardinia as the military liaison between the local Italian government and the U.S. Navy.


In 1988, Ron retired as a Senior Chief and moved back to Virginia Beach. Continuing his life of service after the Navy, he worked for the City of Norfolk where he helped develop and manage the Homeless Intervention Program and served as an access coordinator for medically indigent substance abuse clients.

Ron then became a Drug and Alcohol counselor at Portsmouth Naval Hospital. During his 15 years there he co-developed several programs including a Transitional Psychiatric Outpatient service and a multidisciplinary program addressing co-occurring substance use disorders and PTSD. He served as program director of Addiction Medicine and Recovery services treating people in need and positively affecting both staff and patients. He was a dedicated mentor and recruiter to many in his profession and a tireless crusader for those suffering with addiction disorders. 

He spent many years lobbying for substance abuse prevention, treatment and recovery, reinforcing nationwide attention, promoting recognition as a disease and instituting policy change. Ron served as a volunteer and a consultant and was also frequently nominated as a leader for both state and national associations. Co-founder of the Virginia Summer Institute for Addiction Studies, President of VAAP and the Virginia Association of Alcoholism and Drug Abuse Counselors, Vice President of the National Association of Alcoholism and Drug Abuse Counselors Mid-Atlantic region, committee member of NAADAC Veterans Task Force and Board member of Virginia Governor's Committee for Substance Abuse, are just a few of the many positions he held and used to advocate and improve the lives of those suffering from addiction and substance abuse.

Ron further looked for ways to serve his fellow man through fellowship at his church. Over the last 25 years, Ron was an active and devoted member of Thalia United Methodist Church in Virginia Beach, serving or leading in many positions, most notably and dear to his heart, the Methodist Men's group.

If you knew Ron you knew how much he enjoyed spending time with nearby family or returning to his home state of North Carolina, taking great pride in his family reunions. He was also fluent in Italian and often enjoyed travelling back to Italy. He was very much loved by all his friends and family, both here and overseas. He was equally content around a Kerr Lake campfire or in a sunny Italian piazza.


Ron was driven but also jovial, he loved to tease and share a laugh. He truly enjoyed debating and could choose either side of a discussion just to test your resolve, but then respect and defend your right to disagree just as much as his own principles. Ron strongly believed in justice and accountability, and he held himself and others to their word. He loved the outdoors, fishing, his garden and the birds. He enjoyed sharing what he believed was God's greatest gift, the beauty of nature, and instilled it especially in his grandson Grayson. His handshake was tight and his laughter was sincere. He leaves a legacy of caring for others that we should aspire to continue. Ron will be missed by all who knew him.

A Celebration of Life was held at Thalia United Methodist Church, 4321 Virginia Beach Blvd, Virginia Beach, VA on Saturday, February 26, 2022. In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made to Thalia United Methodist Men. Online condolences may be made to the family at hdoliver.com




AGCM Harry H. Hale, USN (Ret)

September 14, 1939 to February 11, 2022


Harry H. Hale of Boulder City, Nevada formerly of O'Donnell, Texas went home to be with the Lord, February 11, 2022.  He was born on September 14, 1939 to George Hale and Winnie Tungate-Hale in St. Louis, Missouri.  He was raised in St. James, Missouri and graduated John F. Hodges, High School in 1958.  Shortly after graduation, Harry joined the U.S. Navy going to San Diego, for basic training.  He then went to Monterey, California to wait for Aerographer Mate (meteorologist) school in Lakehurst, New Jersey.  He then returned to San Diego for his first duty station.


 In the Spring of 1960, Harry met Jeanie Proctor.  They were married in April of 1961.  Harry spent 30 years in the Navy, retiring in November of 1988 as a Master Chief.  Harry is survived by his wife, Jeanie, two sons, Harry H. Hale, III of Boulder City, NV and Mark A. Hale of SeaTac, WA, two daughters-in-law, Cheryl Hale of Boulder City, NV, and Theresa Hale, and two grandsons, Matthew Hale and Michael Hale of SeaTac, WA.


 He is also survived by his younger brother, Howard M. Hale and his wife Linda Hale of Camden Delaware and Sister Cheryl Martin and her husband Steve Martin and many nieces and nephews.  Preceding Harry in death are his parents, brothers Dave, Bob, Charles, Tom and Ron and sisters, Georgia, Kathy and Pat.


 Interment will be at a later date at the O'Donnell cemetery.  



Ella Faith Gould

December 14, 1929 to November 16, 2021

Widow of LCDR Willard G. “Will” Gould, USN RET


Ella Faith Mulligan Gould (91), a native of Washington D.C., lived from Dec. 14, 1929 to Nov. 16, 2021. The world was richer for her time among us.

 

Born to Loretta Quinn and Fred Mulligan, she was the last surviving child of the six Mulligan children: Billy, Libby, Virginia, Ella, Jimmy, Ralph (Peanut), and “Skippy”.

 

Throughout her life, Ella worked as a secretary in many places including the telephone company, The Smithsonian Institution, a doctor’s office, and NOAA.


Ella met and married Willard Gene Gould in Georgetown, Washington D.C. They became a military family as Willard served in the United States Navy for over 27 years. Ella dutifully supported Will in his career, which took them and their three children, David Allen, Debra Lynn, and Derrick Lee, all over the world to places such as Maryland, Bermuda, Colorado, Alaska, Japan, Minnesota, Hawaii, and Guam.

 

After a battle with cancer, Ella was determined to settle back in Maryland so she could be close to friends and family, and that is where she spent the remainder of her life. She became the beloved “MamMa” to all who knew her. Ella never missed a birthday, baptism, dance or piano recital, sporting event, or special occasion. No party was complete without MamMa there as the Guest of Honor! She organized numerous Mulligan Family Reunions and ensured that everyone was made to feel loved and included.


Ella was an avid singer and participated in several singing groups for seniors including “The Patuxent Pearls” and “The Variety Players”. These singing groups performed at various venues throughout the Calvert County region for nonprofit organizations.

 

Ella Faith was a devout member of the Methodist Church where she worshipped and served throughout her life. She is survived by her son David Gould (Cheryl), her daughter Debra Krehbiel (John), 15 grandchildren, 32 great-grandchildren, and many nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews.


Funeral service were held on Tuesday, November 30, 2021 at Trinity United Methodist Church, 90 Church St., Prince Frederick, MD 20678 followed immediately by the burial at Southern Memorial Gardens 10155 Ward Road Dunkirk, MD 20754.

 

To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Ella Faith Gould please visit our Sympathy Store.

 

Attached is obituary for our dear friend Ella Gould. She was the Widow of one of my best buddies, LCDR Will Gould.  She had a great sense of humor and a heart of Irish Gold.  Will & Ella were loved and respected plank owners of NWSA's Potomac Chapter.  

Thanks,

Jim Romano





AGCS Daniel Lee, USN RET
August 8, 1940 – December 9, 2021

On December 9, 2021, Daniel Lee peacefully passed away alongside his loving family and into God's graces after an extended period of declining health.


The son of Alfred and Mary Lee, he was the beloved husband of Carmen A. Lee and devoted father of daughter Lynn and her man Sean, daughter Pamela, and son Brian and his wife Dana.

Dan treasured his grandchildren JW, Brandon, Daniel, Jaclyn, Parker and Shannon; great-grandchildren Kennedy and Sawyer, and through the grace of God, he shared his passion of hunting, fishing, skiing and golfing with them and creating countless memories with the family he and Carmen started and nurtured over the 59 years they were together in holy marriage.


Despite relocating numerous times during an honorable 20-year career in the United States Navy and making Virginia Beach his family's home after retirement, he remained rooted in, and visited often until the final year of his life, the Shroudsburg, PA community in which he was born and raised.

In addition to being a dear and devoted father, grandfather, and great grandfather, Dan cherished his time with extended family & friends throughout this great country, at St. Johns the Apostle Catholic Parish, and at his "second home" in Snowshoe, WV.


A moral compass, with a steadfast devotion to family and those he loved, Dan made a lasting impression on those who were honored to know him and each generation that follows. Throughout his life, he held on to an unwavering faith in God, which he shared with those who surrounded him.


Our deepest gratitude to H.D. Oliver Funeral Home for coordination of arrangements.


We appreciate your love and support during this difficult time. However, as Dan would have undeniably wanted, please take time to celebrate his life and be grateful and loving to those that remain with us, whom you love and cherish.


A Funeral Mass was held at St. John the Apostle Catholic Church on Mon. Dec. 20th at 11:00am. Online condolences may be offered to the family at hdoliver.com.

 

Submitted by AGC Fay Crossley, USN (Ret)



LCDR Lee S. Chesnau, USNR RET
JULY 9, 1948 – NOVEMBER 25, 2021
LCDR Lee S. Chesnau, USNR RET
JULY 9, 1948 – NOVEMBER 25, 2021

LCDR Lee S. Chesnau, USNR RET

JULY 9, 1948 – NOVEMBER 25, 2021

Lee left us peacefully this past Thanksgiving day just three years after suffering a massive stroke.

Born in New York, the son of Archie and Dorothy, he moved with his family to South Florida at a young age and attended Coral Gables High School. Swimming was one of his greatest passions, from his time as a youth in Venetian Pool, to becoming a two time All-American his junior and senior year. Competing internationally at events like Maccabiah Games with teammate and Olympic Gold medalist Mark Spitz, he then accepted an athletic scholarship at the University of South Carolina, he transferred to the University of Wisconsin, obtaining his bachelors in Meteorology, where he competed in the Olympic Trials and continued his post collegiate swimming career in the US Masters well into his 40s.


When Lee was young, he vividly remembered being excited at the prospect of Weather phenomenon, thus a precursor to his Lifelong dream of being involved in Meteorology. Having an extensive and passionate career with the National Weather Service. He served as a commander in the US Navy. While stationed at fleet weather central Rota, Spain, he met his wife Toni.

After retiring from government in the late 90s, he pursued teaching and speaking events in the private sector until forming his own consulting business promoting safety at sea.

His professional accolades are lengthy, including being a US Coast Guard certified instructor for basic and advanced meteorology at training institutions like MITAGS, Star Center and Pacific Maritime Institute for professional Mariners.


He also trained commercial fishing and recreational boaters on becoming self reliant on vessel routing and prudent decision making. He has served as a keynote speaker at numerous boat shows and symposia across the country.

Together with prestigious Captain Ma-Li Chen from Taipei, they published a book (Heavy Weather Avoidance and Route Design: Concepts and Applications of 500Mb Charts) that is highly influential in the Mariner community.


He is survived by his wife, son and grandchildren as well his brother and sister.


Lee, may you have fair winds and following seas.


Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.LifetimeCelebrationsByWashelli.com for the Chesneau family.




xAG3 Vernon G. Jacobsen Sr., USN REL
April 17 1934 to July 3, 2021


Vernon Gilbert Jacobsen Sr., age 87 of Fort Washington, passed away Saturday, July 3, 2021 at his daughter’s residence surrounded by family.

Vernon Gilbert Jacobsen Sr. was born April 17, 1934 to Gilbert & Irene (Zamzow) Jacobsen of Clements, Minnesota. He grew up in Clements with five brothers & two sisters; the son of a building contractor and homemaker. He attended school in Clements & graduated from Springfield High School.

Following graduation, Vernon enlisted in the United States Navy for four years in the meteorology career field. Vernon married Sheila Archambault in 1956 and to this union two children were born: Susan and Jeffery.

He enjoyed serving his country and was honorably discharged in 1957. Upon returning to Clements, he worked for the local electric company as a linesman. In 1962, he received a job offer from the federal Weather Bureau and moved to the D.C. area.

On July 5, 1975, Vernon married Gwendolyn Bergman and had two children, Vernon Jr. and Jane. Following retirement from the government (31 years) in 1989, he returned full time to his passion of working outdoors for over 30 years. This included lawn care, tree removal, and raising flowers.


He enjoyed watching and attending games for the Washington Football Team and the Washington Nationals. Vernon was always assisting family and neighbors with projects along with raising money for many charities. He will be greatly missed.

Vernon Sr. is survived by his loving wife of 46 years, Gwendolyn; children: Susan (Wayne), Jeffery (Suzie), Vernon Jr., Jane (Jeremy), and Dawn; brothers, sisters, and in-laws: Janice, Evie, Carmen, Marlis, Joann, Bud (Sandee), and Roger; 19 grandchildren: Christina, Shannon, Aaron, Jessica, Colleen, Megan, Nicole, Shannon, Maria, Brandon, Vernon III, Dylan, Eva, Joshua, Christian, Abigail, Rebekah, David, and Jacob; and 14 great grandchildren.

Vernon was preceded in death by his parents Gilbert (Mary), & Irene, and brothers Loren, Rollie, and Dale.

Burial was arranged with Cheltenham Veterans Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be given to Hospice of St.Mary’s; P.O.Box 625 Leonardtown Md 20650.




AGCM Amos Fields, USN RET

February 16, 1937 to May 4, 2021

Amos was a resident of Gulfport, Mississippi for 39 years.  He was a dutiful Christian and lived his days by the Bible verse, 1 Peter 4:10: “Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.”  Amos served his community by volunteering his time as a Patient Escort at Garden Park Hospital from 2002 until his health declined.  He received several volunteer awards during his volunteer service.  Amos also enjoyed serving the elderly at Retired and Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) and deserving families at Habitat for Humanities.  He was unrelenting in his desire to help people; instead of a “honey do list”, it should be called an “Amos help list”.  There was not a request that was too big or too small for him.  Amos’ proudest project was the work he completed at Grace Temple Baptist Church where he was a member and Deacon for more than 25 years.


Amos loved his family and he believed in leading by example.  Left to cherish his love and memory is the love of his life and most dear to his heart, Sarah Fields.  The two of them shared all that life and love had to offer for 64 years.  With God’s love and blessings their family grew.  Born to their union, daughters Donna Kerr, Dr. Natalie Fields Phillips (Larry Phillips), Valarie Fields Ervin, Kathy Graves (Maurice Graves) and granddaughter/daughter Courtney Butler (Dwight Butler), grandchildren Kyle Phillips, Blair Phillips, Justin Phillips, Kaulin Ervin, Kalib Ervin, Kyla Ervin, Chandler Iwatate, Sade Bias, Larry Bias, Jr., great grandchildren Solomon Phillips, Shaun Phillips, Sarai Phillips, Kaya Phillips, Nadia Butler, Alyssa Butler.  Also left to cherish Amos’s memory are his siblings Goldie Jones, Doris Nowden, Bobby Whitfield, Billy Attaway, Charlotte Pomeroy, and Elizabeth Carroll. 


Amos, Amo, Dad, Pop-pop, Chief, Mr. Fields, and Deacon are some of the names he was affectionately called by a host of family members and friends that will continue to love and miss him.  If you met Amos, you liked Amos; if you liked Amos you loved Amos; and the good news is, Amos always loved you more.

 

To send a flower arrangement or to plant trees in memory of Amos Fields, please click here to visit our Sympathy Store.




AGCS Howard E. Graham, USN RET
Passed January 6, 2021 at Age 82

Howard Eugene Graham SUMMERVILLE - On Wednesday, January 6th, 2021, Howard Eugene Graham passed away peacefully with his grandchildren by his side at age 82. Howard was born on 1939 in Crenshaw, MS. He lived a life of service spending 26 years in the US military and 19 years working for the US government.


He was married to Shirley Graham in May of 1961 and together they had one daughter, Tracy King. Howard, affectionately known as "Handsome Howard," was good man. He never met a stranger and loved to make people smile. He always had a joke to share and a story to tell. Everyone loved to hear his stories, as they were always so entertaining.


The military moved him around a lot but, even into retirement, he loved to travel. He was a God-fearing man who loved his country and his family. He was a wonderful husband and father and an extraordinary Papaw to his two grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.


Howard was preceded in death by his father, Lawrence Graham, his mother, Valeria Graham, and three of his brothers. He is survived by his wife, Shirley Graham, his daughter, his 2 grandchildren, his 6 great- grandchildren, and his brother.


Donations in his honor may be made to The American Legion. Visit our guestbook at legacy.com/obituaries/charleston


Published by Charleston Post & Courier from Jan. 30 to Jan. 31, 2021.



LT William “Bill” Geitz, USN RET

Passed September 23, 2021 at Age 78


William “Bill” Geitz, 78, passed away after a long illness on Thursday, September 23, 2021, to reunite in heaven with our Lord and savior. He was a man of faith that persevered through all his difficulties until our Lord called him home.


Bill, aka “Bubba”, proudly served his country for almost 27 years in the United States Navy. Bill entered the Navy as an enlisted service member and worked his way up through the ranks, achieving the rank of Chief Petty Officer, and ultimately Lieutenant before retiring (“a Mustang”) in September 1989. His naval career sent him all over the world and many tours at sea. Bill enlisted as an Aerographer’s Mate and spent most of his career studying weather and oceanography. He had a passion for his profession and loved forecasting weather for flight and sea operations. His track record for accuracy forecasting weather earned him a reputation that ultimately landed him in Pensacola, Florida as the Officer In Charge (OIC) of the weather detachment at Sherman Field, Naval Air Station Pensacola. After completing his time at NAS Pensacola, Bill went on to finish his naval career at Stennis Space Center in Bay St. Louis, MS. During his 26 years of military service, Bill received the Navy Commendation Medal twice, Navy Achievement Medal, Navy Expeditionary Medal, and the National Defense Service Medal. After a successful naval career, Bill went on to hold various leadership positions working for companies developing and implementing early lightning detection systems. He had a passion for lightning and designed, implemented, and trained clients on the use of lightning detection systems, many of which are used by companies all over the world including the PGA, Federal Aviation Administration, Disney, Hospitals, and many other industries.  Bill “officially” retired in the fall of 2003 yet continued to provide consulting services to domestic and international clients up until 2019.


Bill “Bubba” was a loving and loyal son, brother, husband, and grandpa “Grumps”. He spent his entire life providing for his family and loved ones. He always put others first and made so many sacrifices, never once wanting any recognition, it’s just who he was. In addition to his military service, he often worked multiple jobs to ensure his children received a Catholic education and his family was provided for. He loved umpiring high school baseball and spent many nights and weekends umpiring tournaments.

 

Bill was an avid reader and had a passion for learning, always challenging his mind and constantly learning new things. He loved doing the NY Times crossword puzzle daily and always had the latest and greatest technology….and even read the instructions! He loved to tell stories about his military encounters and all the places he had been. Those that knew him also knew his passion for politics and his love for his country. He was a fair and honest man who instilled this trait in his six children by living it daily.

 

Bill was witty, funny, loved to tell or hear a good joke, and had a wise crack or comment for EVERYTHING! He was famous for his “Just Checking” and loved to ask new members of our family if they ever played softball (inside joke). He was the life of the party and one of the best story tellers around and loved to make us kids laugh. He was our family’s rock who can never be replaced. We are blessed God chose him to be a husband, father, brother and friend to those who were fortunate enough to have met him.


Bill is preceded in death by his parents, Thelma Butler and William Geitz; and his sister, Mary Lou Winkelspecht.

 

Left to treasure Bill’s memory are his wife of 54 years, Laura O’hara Geitz; his six children, William Geitz (Angie), Marnie Fasanella (Bill), Charles Geitz (Kim), Amanda Mannix (Brian), Brian Geitz, and Katheryn Weekley (Thomas); his sister, Kathy Zott (Donnie); eleven (11) grandchildren, Christopher Oxford (Haylie), Madison Mannix, Lauren Mannix, Sophia Fasanella, Gianna Fasanella, Grace Mannix, Jack Geitz, Sam Geitz, Emelia Fasanella, Bryant Weekley, and Max Weekley; and 2 great-grandchildren, Preston and Colton Oxford; and several beloved nieces, nephews, and cousins.


Visitation will be held 12:00noon until the Mass of Christian Burial to begin at 12:30pm Monday, October 4, 2021, at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church with Fr. John Licari celebrant. Interment will follow at Barrancas National Cemetery with full military honors.

 

In lieu of flowers, and in honor of Bill’s love for his country, the family is requesting donations in his name to Homes For Our Troops (HFOT) or a charity of your choice.     

 

A special thank you to the people at Medical Center Clinic, Sacred Heart Hospital, Medi Home Health Agency, The Haven of our Lady of Peace, and Specialty Care Center for their loving care and support during his illness.




CAPT Johnny Marion Sears, USN (Ret)
November 17, 1932 – September 5, 2021
CAPT Johnny Marion Sears, USN (Ret)
November 17, 1932 – September 5, 2021

Johnny Marion Sears passed away peacefully in his home in Franklin, TN, on Sunday morning, Sept. 5, with his son, Jason, at his side. Mr. Sears was 88 years old. John was born on Nov. 17, 1932, to Ada Warf and Walter Eugene Sears, in rural southwestern Williamson County, growing up farming with his father, who also served as a justice-of-the-peace in his community.

John attended college at Middle Tennessee State College, studying Mathematics. There he met the loveand-light of his life, Neuva Sharp of Nashville, whom he wed shortly after his graduation. John and Neuva had 3 children: Michael, Joan and Jason. John was commissioned as a naval officer in 1955, serving first as a meteorological officer, then attending the Naval Postgraduate School in Monterey, CA, to earn a master of science in Oceanography.

Retiring after 30 years of service, Captain Sears' most notable achievements included serving as
Executive then Commanding Officer of Naval Western Oceanographic Center, Pearl Harbor, and as the Commanding Officer of the Naval Oceanographic Office in Bay St. Louis, MS.

Once retired, John and Neuva embarked upon founding and building the Diamondhead United Methodist Church in MS. They remained passionately involved with its congregation and operations for over 2 decades, even returning after Hurricane Katrina hit their community days later to help others with its aftermath.

Personally, John loved sports of all types, coaching baseball and softball for his children and playing
scratch golf most of his life. He loved music, with a special place in his heart for Sissel Kyrkjebø's song, Slow Down."


John loved and cared for his and Neuva's family his entire life, leaving behind a legacy of love and
strength, living a Christ-centered life in his every breath, and was glad to have returned to Franklin for his final years on this earth.


John is preceded in death by his son, Mike, his grandson, Seagar, his wife, Neuva, and his older brother, Everett. He leaves behind his daughter, Joan (Pete) Degen, of Haines, AK, his son, Jason (April) Sears of Rabat, Morocco; grandsons Murphy (Erika) Degen of South Jordan, UT, and Michael Forrest (Kaela) Sears of Portland, OR; loving nieces Shirley (David) Waddington, Reba (Wayne) Stinson, Karen (Christian) Lawrence, Pamela (Joe) Hicks, Tracie (Dean) Johnson; nephew Jerry (Melva) Law; greatnieces Becky (Robert) Wood, Shara (Thomas) Hamlett and Ruby Lawrence; nephew Steve Sears and grand-nephew Graham Sears; sister-in-laws Carolyn Hicks and Peggy Sears.

In lieu of flowers, John would have encouraged us to give to a charity such as Navigators, St. Jude's
Children's Hospital, or Children's Miracle Network. A memorial scholarship is planned for John and
Neuva's alma mater, MTSU.






Captain Richard Arthur Anawalt, USN RET

January 21, 1941 to August 10, 2021


Richard Arthur Anawalt passed away at his home in White Plains, MD on August 10, 2021 at the age of 80. He was born in Cedar Rapids, Iowa January 21, 1941 to Walter Charles and Della Adcock Anawalt. Richard grew up in Cedar Rapids and then attended Miami University of Ohio where he earned a Bachelor’s degree and his commission into the US Navy in 1963. He served in two tours in Vietnam on the US Stoddard and then earned his Master’s degree in Meteorology from the Naval Postgraduate School in Monterey, California. He continued graduate studies in Meteorology at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology in Cambridge, Massachusetts.


Captain Anawalt served as a programming officer before becoming an Instructor of Meteorology at the U.S. Naval Academy and later became the Chairman of the Oceanography Department. He then went to Norfolk, Virginia, where he served as the Executive Officer. In 1983, he returned to Washington D.C., as the head of the Policy, Plans, and Readiness Branch on the Staff of the Oceanographer of the Navy. When the Oceanographer’s office reorganized, Captain Anawalt was reassigned as the Director of the Resource Division where we served until September 1986 when he assumed the duties of Superintendent, U.S. Naval Observatory until his retirement in 1989.


Captain Anawalt earned the Meritorious Service Medal, Naval Commendation Medal (two Gold Stars), Republic of Vietnam Service and Campaign Medals, and the National Defense medal.


In retirement Richard enjoyed cheering for the Washington Football team, watching golf, and running the family football competition. He also enjoyed hearing about the accomplishments and exploits of his children and grandchildren. He will be greatly missed.


Richard leaves behind his beloved wife of 44 years, Madeline, sons Bradley Anawalt (Deborah), Steven Anawalt, Andrew Anawalt (Elise), Andrew Garcia (Marta), eight grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren.


A graveside service was held on Wednesday, August 25 at Cedar Hill Cemetery, 4111 Pennsylvania Ave, Hillcrest Heights, MD. Memorial contributions may be made in Richard’s name to the American Cancer Society.


To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Richard Arthur Anawalt please visit our Sympathy Store.




LaRue C. Wright
August 9, 1927 to May 25, 2021
Widow of LCDR Ralph A. Wright, USN RET

Our beloved, LaRue Catherine Wright, 93, entered eternal life at home on May 25, 2021 with her devoted family by her side. Daughter to the late Henry and Alice Hess, she was born in Shamokin, PA on August 9, 1927. After moving to Philadelphia, PA, she graduated from John W. Hallahan Catholic Girls High School. Post-graduation, she worked at Friends Psychiatric Hospital. During this time, she met a handsome sailor, Ralph Wright, who would ultimately win her love and become her husband of 65 years.

As a Navy wife, she traveled abroad with her husband to Japan, Cuba, and Puerto Rico, before finally settling in Virginia Beach. LaRue was the outgoing social butterfly who never met a stranger. Thanks to LaRue, she and Ralph took advantage of all the military social events, from attending formal military balls to casual beach hootenannies or costume parties. A talented seamstress, she would sew her own ball gowns and costumes. As a couple, LaRue and Ralph enjoyed trying new hobbies together. They loved dancing to big band music at the Officer’s Club, bowling on a league with friends, and of course, her all-time favorite, playing bridge. LaRue became an avid bridge player. She couldn’t wait for “bridge day” to see her 3 favorite gal pals. The “girls'' traveled to Charleston to play bridge, laugh, and enjoy their close sisterhood bond that lasted over 40 years. LaRue, with the love of her life, Ralph by her side, enjoyed traveling to Europe and taking cruises. But vacationing with family and friends was what she really enjoyed. A Sandbridge vacation with her sister Dolores and husband John became a summer tradition. In the winter, LaRue and Ralph became snowbirds and fled to sunny Ft. Myers, FL. She loved to entertain and was quite the hostess. Festive Christmas open houses, birthday bashes, or any holiday that would bring family and friends together. When not entertaining, she was content to read a book at home with her loyal King Charles companion, Riley by her side.

She believed her greatest accomplishment was raising five Christian daughters, LaRue, Denice, Diana, Claudia, and Jennifer. She guided their path by living a life of faith. She was an exceptional teacher of what love is. For example, her loving husband frequently offered her unsolicited cooking suggestions even though he was not a cook, “a little more salt, Rue.” Rather than getting upset, she would smile, or sometimes bite her tongue and just add a little more salt. The girls would giggle but they learned an important lesson from their mom, “love is patient, love is kind.”1 Corinthians 13:4-8 Her girls admired her kindness and respected her giving nature that she shared with numerous charities on a regular basis. She was always available to help a friend in need or lend an empathetic ear while offering her delicious lemon square bars. Her daughters admired her bravery when she faced personal challenges and were inspired by her when she called on her faith, strong will and discipline to make positive changes in her life that led her to overcome her challenges while helping others do the same.

LaRue was predeceased by her husband, Ralph A. Wright Jr., daughter, Jennifer Case, brothers Thomas and William Hess and sister Alice Kirkpatrick. Left to cherish her memory are her daughters and son-in-laws, LaRue Allen (Archibald), Denice Maphis (John), Diana Vickers (Dane), Claudia Liebig (Dave), sister, Dolores Machik, 10 grandchildren, 2 great-grandchildren, as well as extended family and friends.

LaRue, Diana, and Claudia would like to thank Denice and John Maphis for graciously welcoming their mother into their home during her time of need. We especially want to thank our sister Denice for the love, selfless devotion and quality of care she provided for our mother throughout this entire journey. The entire family would like to thank Clare D. for her friendship, companionship, and patience she showed to our mother while going above the call of duty each and every day. You are family, Clare.

The family expresses their deepest gratitude to their mother’s medical providers, the Glennan Center at EVMS, Dr. Okhravi and recently, hospice providers, Dawn and Heather, for their knowledge and experience in end-of-life care as our mother and family traveled these uncharted territories. Your calming presence provided our mother comfort and dignity as she peacefully went to be with her Lord, Jesus Christ.

A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated on Wednesday, June 23, at St. Nicholas Catholic Church, 712 Little Neck Road, Virginia Beach, VA. In lieu of flowers please send donations to the Alzheimer's Association, Act.alz.org St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Stjude.org, Catholic Charities, catholiccharitiesusa.org. Condolences may be offered to the family at www.hollomon-brown.com.It




Beverly J. Morford
1932 to 2021
Long-time companion of CAPT Ace Trask, USN RET

Beverly J. Morford, a retired professional and resident of the Monterey Peninsula since 1953 died in 2021.

Born in Fargo, ND, she attended schools there including NDSU where she was a member of Kappa Delta Sorority and Beta Sigma Phi. Beverly was a Navy wife for 26 years and a member of various Naval Officers Wives' Club in Monterey, an active member of the Children's Home Society, Children's Services Center and Kinship Center since 1979.

She was elected a director of Cypress Mortgage Company in 1984 and affiliated with the company for 13 years, and a property manager for the Monterey and Carmel area for several years.

She is survived by three sons, Jay of Salinas, CA, Wayne of Sequim, WA and Greg of Bismarck, ND; seven grandchildren and long-time companion, Capt. Ace. F. Trask, USN Ret.

At her request, no services will be held. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial contributions be made to the Kinship Center in Salinas, CA.


To Plant Memorial Trees in memory, please visit our Sympathy Store.

Published in Monterey Herald Obits on May 19, 2021.

Submitted by CAPT Ace Trask, USN RET, with the following remembrance:
B.J. was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease in 2010 and wrote the above obituary on November 15, 2011.  She was beautiful in everything she did.  All who knew her will have an emptiness in their hearts that cannot be filled.  She was one of a kind and will be missed by all.

Submitted by CAPT Ace Trask, USN RET, with the following remembrance:

B.J. was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease in 2010 and wrote the above obituary on November 15, 2011.  She was beautiful in everything she did.  All who knew her will have an emptiness in their hearts that cannot be filled.  She was one of a kind and will be missed by all.
B.J. was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease in 2010 and wrote the above obituary on November 15, 2011.  She was beautiful in everything she did.  All who knew her will have an emptiness in their hearts that cannot be filled.  She was one of a kind and will be missed by all.

 

CAPT Conley Richard "Dick" Ward, USN RET

October 1, 1930 – April 18, 2021

Conley Richard (Dick) Ward was born October 1, 1930 in Zionsville Indiana to parents Leslie and Mabel Ward and passed away peacefully surrounded by his family in Roseville, California on April 18, 2021 at the age of 90. 

One could sum up his life as historic, impactful, and adventurous. Dick grew up a farm boy and after HS, he enrolled first at Purdue University and a year later transferred to University of Louisville (U of L) where he took part in the NROTC. As a student at U of L Dick met his life partner, Mary Lou Kennedy, with whom he was married for 68 years until her passing in 2019. 

Upon graduation, Dick was commissioned in the Navy where, for 27 years he specialized in planning, directing, and applying meteorological and oceanographic observing and forecasting programs. Dick was a true patriot and served his country through two deployments in Vietnam and one in Korea. As career Navy, Dick was given various assignments of increasing responsibility including Assistant Professor at Harvard, Meteorologist on the USS Oriskany, Commander of Fleet Numerical Weather Central in Monterey, CA, and culminating his Naval career as Director Naval Oceanography and Meteorology and Assistant Oceanographer of the Navy for Environmental Prediction. After retiring from the Navy at the rank of Captain, 

Dick started a second career as Vice President of Ocean Data Systems, Inc and Global Weather Dynamics where he was responsible for development and marketing of communication and forecasting systems to world meteorological and aeronautical communities. He earned a BA in Chemistry from U of L, a BS in Meteorology from the Naval Post Graduate School and a MS in Oceanography from Old Dominion University. As a scientist, he was driven by evidence and logic and challenged conventional thinking. He was a member of the American Meteorological Society, as well as a lifetime member of MENSA.

Dick was an unassuming and loving husband, father, grandfather, and great grandfather. He and Mary Lou were the ultimate power couple, they worked together and were admired and respected by all who knew them. Family was most important to Dick, and he and Mary Lou worked hard to keep the ever expanding extended families of their four children connected. As a team he and Mary Lou organized many family reunions. On two occasions, Dick and Mary Lou took their grandchildren to Europe to expose them to international cultures. Dick also assumed the mantle of family historian, spending the last three decades scouring the archives to develop the history of the Ward and Kennedy families. Dick was the eternal optimist, even at the end of his life he told his family he still had a “five year plan”.

Dick is now with his wife, Mary Lou where they are both watching over their children. Surviving are his daughters Marsha Ward (Tom), Valerie Beyrouty (Craig Beyrouty, “What’s His Name”), Cynthia Davidson and his son Kevin Ward, his 9 grandchildren and 9 great grandchildren. Preceding Dick in death was a grandchild, Daniel.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Conley Richard Ward’s name to Wounded Warriors.

“Fair winds and following seas Dick”



CAPT Ken Hinman, USN RET
August 8, 1938 – March 24, 2021
CAPT Ken Hinman, USN RET
August 8, 1938 – March 24, 2021
CAPT Ken Hinman, USN RET
August 8, 1938 to March 24, 2021

Ken Hinman, 82, of Picayune, Mississippi, passed away on Wednesday, March 24, 2021. Mr. Hinman was born August 8, 1938 in Evanston, IL.

He was a retired meteorologist and oceanographer with the United States Navy, retiring at the rank of Captain. He was a Commander of the Joint Typhoon Warning Center in Agana, Guam. Ken also served duty stations in Washington, D.C. and Stennis Space Center.

He was a faithful member of First Baptist Church, Poplarville. Ken served on the Board of Deacons, longtime teacher of the Harmony Sunday School Class, and participated in many mission trips. He was also a member and speaker of Gideon’s International - Poplarville Camp.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Kendall Goddard Hinman, Sr. and Emorie Huff Hinman; one stepson, Al Vaughn; and one brother-in-law, William Haller.

Family members include his wife of 40 years, Mary Virginia Hutto Hinman; one daughter, Sheila (Jim) Chimento; four sons, Dennis (Lori) Hinman, James Vaughn, Darren (Shoko) Vaughn, David (April) Vaughn; one sister, Stevie Haller; two grandchildren, Alex Vaughn and Quinn Vaughn.

Funeral services were held at First Baptist Church, Poplarville, on Monday, March 29, 2021 at 2:00 pm. Burial with military honors followed in McNeill Cemetery.




LCDR Darrell A. Lightner, USN RET

July 7, 1924 – January 19, 2019

Darrell A. Lightner passed away on January 19, 2019 at the age of 94. His memorial service was held the following month at the American Legion’s Newport Harbor Post 291 in Newport Beach, California.

During his long illustrious naval career, LCDR Smith served during WWII, Korea and Vietnam. His first assignment was aboard the aircraft carrier USS Enterprise (CV-6) during WWII. After the war he did a shore tour in Yokosuka, Japan, in which he helped stand up the Fleet Weather office. Tours aboard other carriers followed, including USS Oriskany (CV-34), as well as a shore tour in Kodiak, Alaska, just to name a few.

He was blessed to take the Honor Flight to Washington, D.C. the year before his death as well as attend the 99th anniversary of American Legion’s Newport Harbor Post 291 in which he reunited with other WWII and Korean War veterans. His entire family is proud of his service in the Navy.

Information provided by Lynne Lightner (Mrs. Darrell Lightner)

The below picture is of LCDR Lightner with friends from the American Legion anniversary held in July of 2018. It is accompanied by a brief excerpt from an associated newspaper article.

World War II veterans, from left, Darrell Lightner, Jack Geerlings and Earl Dahleen joke during a luncheon at American Legion Newport Harbor Post 291 celebrating the legion’s 99th anniversary. (Kevin Chang, Staff Photographer)


Newport Beach’s American Legion post, the state’s largest with 4,200 veterans, hosted a lunch Thursday for 300 people, including many World War II and Korea veterans. Mike Schubert, first vice commander of the post, said his organization has hosted such parties for 10 years to reunite the oldest groups of veterans while they’re still alive. “They don’t see their pals unless they come to this,” Schubert said.

Among the World War II veterans who reunited Thursday were Earl Dahleen, 92, of Corona del Mar and Darrell Lightner, 94, of Newport Beach.  Lightner, a former Navy meteorologist aboard the USS Enterprise, showed up wearing a Hawaiian shirt with a pattern including ships from his era. When asked why it was important to him to attend the Newport Harbor post’s party, he said, “If nothing else, to see the other oldies.”

 

Though the number of living World War II and Korea veterans decreases each year, Schubert said the event continues to grow. “They’re the guys we can always count on,” he said. “This is a great generation.”


Fair Winds & Following Seas Commander, you truly were a credit to yourself and the United States Navy.


LCDR Kenneth F. "Ken" Smith, USN RET

October 3, 1936 to November 6, 2020


Kenneth (Ken) F. Smith passed away on November 6, 2020 at the age of 84. He was born on October 3, 1936 to the late Fiesco F. Smith and Mildred Irene Davis. He was the oldest of 5 children.

 

Mr. Smith is survived by his loving wife, the former Marion Joyce Thackston, whom he married on May 3, 1959 and sons David Steven (Marlene) Smith of Myrtle Beach, SC and Daniel Frederick (Susan) Smith of Millersville, MD. In addition, Mr. Smith is survived by three grandchildren - Erika Blair Smith, Margaret Marie Smith and Charles Thackston Smith. He was preceded in death by his oldest son, Kenneth Thackston Smith, who passed away in 2001.


Mr. Smith joined the U.S.Navy in 1954 upon graduation from high school in Elmore, Ohio. He served as a meteorologist and progressed through the ranks from Airman Recruit to Chief Petty Officer and Chief Warrant Officer before retiring in 1980 at the rank of Lieutenant Commander. Most of his career was served with the Naval Security Group Activity at Fort Meade, MD and overseas stations in Japan (one tour) and England (two separate tours).

 

Between 1966 and 1969 Mr. Smith was assigned to Airborne Early Warning Squadron One (VW-1) in Guam. He was the Meteorological Reconnaissance Officer (METRO) in a squadron which operated from NAS Agana, Guam. Aircraft from this squadron located, tracked, penetrated and reported the locations and structure of tropical cyclones and typhoons in the Western Pacific. A secondary mission for his squadron was to provide airborne early warning for Seventh Fleet aircraft carriers and support ships located in the Tonkin Gulf. These reconnaissance flights were flown in WC-121 (Super Constellation) aircraft from airfields at Chu Lai and Danang, RVN by VW-1 crews deployed from Guam.


During his naval career, LCDR Smith was awarded the Defense Meritorious Service Medal, five Air Medals, the Meritorious Unit Commendation, three Good Conduct medals, the Vietnam Service Medal, the Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal and the National Defense Medal.

 

Mr. Smith graduated from the University of Maryland in 1974 with a major in History and a minor in Political Science.

 

After retirement from the U.S.Navy in 1980, Mr. Smith was employed by the National Security Agency (NSA) at Fort Meade, MD as an intelligence analyst. He retired from the NSA in 1993 and lived with his wife Joyce in Severna Park, MD until they moved to Sun City, Hilton Head in 2002. He enjoyed many of the educational and recreational activities (mainly golf) available at Sun City as well as travel. He and Joyce attended annual Naval Weather Service Association (NWSA) reunions, family visits and stays at timeshares at various resorts around the country. He also enjoyed cruises to Alaska, Canada, Europe and the Mediterranean, the Caribbean and the Panama Canal as well as riverboat cruises in Europe. In 2016 Ken and Joyce moved to Carolina Meadows, a very active Continuing Care Retirement Center in Chapel Hill, NC. Ken enjoyed the many seminars and exercise classes offered.


Mr. Smith was cremated and his ashes will be placed in the Columbarium at Arlington National Cemetery.






.

Hazel Dell Hudock

October 4, 1930 – December 22, 2020
Widow of LCDR Charles (Charlie) J. Hudock, Sr., USN RET

Hazel Dell Hudock, age 90, of Wheeling, West Virginia passed away December 22, 2020 at The Welty Home for the Aged in Wheeling, West Virginia. Hazel was a native of Five Points, Tennessee.

As a young woman she moved to Washington D.C. where she met Charles (Charlie) J. Hudock, Sr. who became her husband of 45 years. Charlie was a meteorologist in the US Navy. Charlie and Hazel were stationed with the US Navy in both England and Morocco. Their family lived in Pensacola, Florida, Patuxent River, Maryland, and Rockville, Maryland.

Later in life they moved to Gerrardstown, West Virginia, where they restored an old country home and ran a bed and breakfast inn. She and Charlie were members of the original congregation of St. Leo’s Catholic Church, in Inwood, West Virginia, when it was founded in 1982. Confirmed in the Catholic faith in 1983, Hazel served her parish as an Extraordinary Minister of the Holy Eucharist. After Charlie’s death in 1998, Hazel lived in Martinsburg, West Virginia and Wheeling, West Virginia.

In addition to her husband, Charlie, she was preceded in death by her parents, Lovick and Leila Dell Thomas of Five Points, Tennessee; five brothers, Millard (Ruby) Thomas, James Edgar “J.E.” (Mable) Thomas, Emmitt (Marie) Thomas, and Clarence (Eva) Thomas, James Brice (Ellen) Thomas and two sisters, Eva Inez (Cilvie) Hale, and Fannie Marie Thomas.

She is survived by her five children: Patti (Dennis) Dmytryk of Port St. Lucie, Florida; Kathryn (Thomas) Herlihy of Morgantown, West Virginia; Stevan (Wendy) Hudock of Gerrardstown, West Virginia; Charles J. (Valerie) Hudock Jr. of Chapel Hill, North Carolina; and Rev. Msgr Paul Hudock of Wheeling, West Virginia. She is also survived by seven grandchildren: Sean (Kara) Thomas, Kevin (Adriane) Herlihy, Ryan (Sarah) Herlihy, Marc Dmytryk, Maureen Dmytryk, Samuel Hudock and Lena Hudock, and six great-grandchildren.

 

Hazel’s family would like to thank the staff of the Welty Home for the Aged, 21 Washington Ave in Wheeling, for making the last 5 years of her life very enjoyable and happy.

 

Funeral arrangements were handled by Altmeyer Funeral Home. A Memorial Mass took place on Wednesday, December 30th at 11:00 a.m. at St. Vincent de Paul Parish, Wheeling, with her son Rev. Msgr. Paul Hudock officiating. At a future date, Hazel will be interred next to her husband, Lt. Charles J. Hudock, Sr. USN, at Arlington National Cemetery, in Arlington Virginia.

Submitted by President Jim Romano with the following comment:

Hazel was widow of LT Charlie Hudock, USN RET who was a Met LDO.  They were just great people and were loved and respected by many of us in DC area.



AGC Jimmy T. Wilcox, USN RET
June 1, 1938 - October 16, 2020

Jimmy T. Wilcox, 82, passed away October 16, 2020 with his family by his bedside. Funeral Services celebrating his life were held at First Presbyterian Church, Greensboro on October 20, 2020. A Full Military Honor Service at Lakeview Memorial Park followed.

Jimmy was born in Greensboro, NC on June 1, 1938 to the late Thomas Marshall Wilcox and Nolia Gregory Wilcox. He attended Rankin High School from 1st through 12th grade and graduated in 1956. Upon graduation, he joined the United States Navy and married his high school sweetheart, Evon Cockman Wilcox. As an Aerographer's Mate, he and Evon transferred from Newfoundland, Canada to Midway Island and many states in between. He rose to the rank of Chief Petty Officer and accumulated four children along the way.

Upon retiring from the Navy, Jimmy graduated with Associates Degrees from both Rockingham Community College and Guilford Technical Community College. He went on to further serve his country by joining the United States Postal Service and worked a walking mail route for 21 years.

Jimmy joined the American Legion in 1978 and enjoyed serving as the Commander for Cone Post #386 for two years. He was an active member of First Presbyterian Church, Greensboro for 42 years. He and Evon loved to travel, visiting all 50 states and numerous countries across Europe and Asia.

Jimmy is survived by his wife of 63 years, Evon; children, Michael Wilcox (Tina) of Woodlawn, VA, Teresa Leszczynski (Mark) of McCormick, SC, Cynthia Turner (Mike) of Augusta, GA, and Susan McAllister (Shane) of Macon, GA; grandchildren, Krista Beattie (Eric), Lauren Hodge (Matt), Holly Wilcox, Katelyn Simons (Zach), Anne Marie Cross (David), Emily Taylor (Jonathon) and Paul D. Gatens; great-grandchildren, Chance Beattie, Tyler Simons, Luke Taylor and Peter Hodge; brother, Zeb Wilcox; and best friend Eddie Clark. He will also be missed by his beloved dogs, Bobo and Roxie.

Memorial contributions may be made to the American Legion – Cone Post #386, 1206 American Legion St., Greensboro, NC 27405

Friends and family may sign and view the guestbook at www.Pierce-JeffersonFuneralService.com



AGCM Eugene A. Himes, USN RET

May 12, 1943 ~ November 18, 2020 (age 77)


Eugene (Gene) Himes, 77, died November 18, 2020 at St. Luke’s Hospital in Duluth.

 

Gene was born on May 12, 1943 to Delmar and Ruth (Kalander) Himes in Duluth, grew up in Finland and graduated from Kelley High in June 1961.  He attended UMD until joining the U. S. Navy in San Diego on Dec. 31, 1963.


His first of many assignments was Lakehurst, NJ to become a meteorologist. Throughout 30 years on active duty he served on Midway Island, Atsugi Naval Air Station, Yokosuka Japan, Moffett Field, Ca and Cubi Point Naval Air Station, Philippines. He performed Sea duty on Commander Seventh Fleet Staff on USS Oklahoma City and USS Blue Ridge and USS Providence including several Vietnam War deployments  He retired as a Master Chief Aerographer’s Mate, then joined the Civil Service and worked for the Navy in Yokosuka until he retired in 2013. In 2009 he was awarded a plaque (and sword & scabbard) from the Secretary of the Navy for his 45 years of service and retired with 49 years in service to the Navy. During his assignment at Yokosuka as a civil servant he mentored and provided guidance to hundreds of sailors as part of the Aegis Training and Readiness Center Yokosuka staff. Eugene’s legacy of dedication, wry humor and thoughtfulness is missed and will never be forgotten.


He was flown from a Japanese hospital on Christmas 2018 to the VA Hospital in Minneapolis, where he received excellent care.  Most recently he resided in CareFree Living in Silver Bay. 

 

Gene married Masako (Toshiko) Matsumoto in 1971, and she preceded him in death. Also preceding him in death were his father, Delmar, grandparents, aunts and uncles and several cousins.

 

He is survived by his mother, Ruth (Kalander) Himes; sister, Judith Martell; nephew, Roger (Cheryl) Martell and family; special Navy friend, Frank who got him back to the states; and all his Naval friends.

 

Thank you to St. Luke’s for the care he received in his last days.

 

A memorial service will be held in the summer of 2021. To share your memories or condolences online please visit www.cavallinfuneralhome.com



xAG Daniel Nicholas Monaco, USN REL

July 31, 1938 - July 17, 2020


Daniel Nicholas "Nick" Monaco, Jr., age 81, of Brunswick, Maryland, passed away peacefully on Friday, July 17th, 2020. 


Nick was born on July 31st, 1938 to Daniel Nicholas Monaco, Sr. and Louella (Myers) Monaco in Washington, D.C. He grew up in Bethesda, Maryland and graduated from Bethesda-Chevy Chase High School in 1956. 


Immediately after graduation, Nick joined the U.S. Navy and served in the Antarctic aboard the destroyer escort U.S.S. Peterson (DE-152), which provided support to "Operation Deep Freeze 60." He was honorably discharged as an Aerographer's Mate in 1960 and lived in California for a few years following his service. 


He then returned to Bethesda where he worked various jobs, the last being for B.F. Joy Construction Company. He proudly became a full-time caregiver for his mother Louella in the early 1980s until her death in 1997. After her death, Nick moved to Brunswick. A lifelong fan of Washington, D.C. area sports teams, Nick faithfully watched the Caps, Skins, and the Nats in all their glory and disappointment. 


Nick never turned away a dog or cat in need of a home, or a squirrel looking for a peanut. His love and compassion for animals and wry sense of humor will be missed.

Nick was a dedicated son, brother, and uncle, and is survived by his sisters Mary Green of Frederick, MD and JoNelle Monaco Lytle of Virginia Beach, VA, as well as many nephews and nieces. He is preceded in death by his parents and beloved brothers, Don Monaco of Silver Spring, MD and Mike Monaco of Aspers, PA.


Published in The Frederick News-Post from 19 to 21 August, 2020.

Submitted by LCDR Bruce DeWald, USN RET




LCDR Robert C. Forsberg, USN RET
Passed August 27, 2020 at Age 92
NWSA Life Member 308

It is with a heavy heart that I report the passing of Robert C Forsberg, Lt Commander, USN.  He was a lifetime member of NWSA. Bob passed away at his home in Oxnard, California, on August 27th, 2020, of natural causes at the age of 92.
  
He served in the USN from 1947 to 1969 in the weather service.  His duty stations included Lakehurst, New Jersey, Guam, the Pentagon, Point Mugu missle base and the USNS Valley Forge.  

He was preceded in death by his wife Patricia and is survived by his two sons Richard and William who will miss him dearly.  Bob's ashes were spread at sea off the coast of Ventura, California.  No service is planned.
Submitted by his son, Will Forsberg



CDR Earl F. Gustafson, USN RET

December 21, 1925 to July 24, 2020

 

Commander Earl Fredrick Gustafson passed away at home on July 24, 2020, from natural causes. Born Dec. 21, 1925 to emigrant parents in Rockford, Ill, he grew up there and in rural Minnesota.

After graduating from Ogilvie High School, he enlisted in the Navy at Minneapolis in 1948 and reported for recruit training at Great Lakes, Ill. Following bootcamp he underwent aviation rate training at Millington, TN and Lakehurst, NJ. His first duty assignment was Naval Air Station, Los Alamitos, CA. During the Korean War, he served onboard USS Cape Esperance [CVET-88] transporting planes and other cargo between the West Coast and the Far East, and USS Salisbury Sound [AV-13], a seaplane tender operating out of Okinawa and Iwakuni, Japan.


Earl then returned to Lakehurst for additional training and subsequently was ordered to staff support in the Aerological Engineering Department at Naval Postgraduate School, Monterey, CA. His next assignment was with Naval Support Force Antarctica based in Washington, D.C. He twice deployed to the Antarctic, mainly onboard USS Arneb [AKA-56] but also on icebreakers and ashore at McMurdo Station as part of Operation Deep Freeze. This duty was followed by tours at Fleet Hurricane Forecast Facility, Miami, FL and Fleet Weather Facilities in London, England and Norfolk, VA. Returning to sea, he then served onboard USS Okinawa [LPH-3] with an initial deployment as part of the Amphibious Ready Group in the Caribbean area. During most of 1967, the ship deployed to Southeast Asia and later participated in the recovery of Apollo 8. After a tour at Fleet Weather Central, Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, Earl again returned to sea onboard USS Oriskany [CVA-34] and made two deployments to Southeast Asia. In late 1973 he reported as Officer in Charge, Naval Weather Service Environmental Detachment, Moffett Field, CA with additional duty as Staff Meteorologist, Patrol Wings, Pacific. He retired in 1978 as a full Commander after 30 years of service.

Earl married Floy Jeanne Schonberg (a former Marine) in 1953. They had lived near each other in Minnesota and went to the same high school. They raised 2 children while moving around the world with the Navy. 


After Earl’s retirement, they moved to Arroyo Grande, CA, eventually building their dream house that he designed. While living there, Earl was active in the  Military Officers Association of America (MOAA), the California Council of Chapters MOAA (Chapter President, Area 3 Director and Interim Secretary), Fleet Weather Reserve, Naval Weather Service Association, Toastmasters, the local Democratic Club and the Austin Healy Club. He volunteered at the Retirees Center at Vandenberg AFB in Lompoc, publishing their newsletters for many years. He also published the newsletter for CALMOAA.

Earl and Floy traveled extensively around the United States and abroad, in the Far East, Australia, and New Zealand. They spent 2 summers exploring the Yukon Territory and then Alaska, in their camper. In 2010, when Floy became ill, they moved to Tracy to be closer to family. She passed away in 2013, just before what would have been their 60th anniversary.

Earl was lucky enough to find love again. He met Martha Moffett at the Widowed Persons Group that they both attended. They were married on June 2, 2015. They enjoyed meeting with their friends and going to the Senior Center to listen to music. Baseball was a fun time at their house: he was a SF Giants fan and she like the Oakland A’s. They also enjoyed watching old movies. Earl and Martha were devoted to each other.

Earl is survived by his daughter Valerie Dubie (Chuck) of Tracy, his son Chris Gustafson (Sandra) of Bodega Bay, his grandson Phillip Dubie (Elizabeth), his granddaughter Meghann Dubie, his great-grandchildren; Michael Dubie, Katherine Dubie, Rebecca Dubie and Helen Dubie; his wife Martha Moffett, her children Nickie Utvick of Tracy and Steve Moffett (Sylvia) of Antioch, her grandchildren Victoria Utvick (Zach), Megan Libenson (Paul), Thomas Utvick, Tim Moffett (Allie), Reese Moffett and Kirra Archuleta; her great-grandchildren; Olivia Libenson and Leo Libenson.

Tracy Memorial Chapel is handling the arrangements. Earl will be cremated and inurned at the Sacramento Valley National Cemetery in Dixon at a later date. He will receive full Military Honors. Due to current restrictions, no local service is planned at this time. For more information, please visit www.tracymemorialchapel.com.

Submitted by his daughter, Valerie Dubie




AGC Gilbert "Gil" Wagi, USN RET
October 29, 1945 to July 13, 2020 

Gilbert Gordon Wagi age 74, of Mills River died July 13, 2020 in Asheville, born in New Brunswick NJ October 29, 1945.

He was preceded in death by his parents Gilbert Geza and Marie Evelyn Rue Wagi

He married his first wife July 3, 1966 Marcella D Royale of Allegan, MI ended in divorce in 1973, he then met his second wife Patricia Barber Wagi from Jacksonville FL and were married June 29, 1974 they were married for 45 years and she preceded him in death August 3, 2019.

He will be lovingly remembered by his children, Rolland (Norma) Hyatt, Keith Hyatt, Marie (Tom) Green, Gilbert (Julie) Wagi, Susan (Bryan) Mason and grandchildren Rolland, Jamie, Kurt, Kasey, Kelsey, Cheyenne, Lainey and great grandchildren

He served his country with Honor in the US Navy from 1964 to 1984 retiring as Chief Aerographer’s Mate. After retirement from the Navy, he began work in 1984 with the National Oceanic Atmospheric Administration/National Weather Server (NOAA/NWS) retiring after 21 years in 2005

Gilbert was a member of the Pisgah Forest Baptist Church. He had a passion for fly fishing, photography, botany, meteorology and computer technology.

Memorial Services will be held at 2:00 PM on Wednesday, July 15, 2020 at Pisgah Forest Baptist Church with Rev. David Spray officiating.

To leave a condolence for the family of Gil Wagi, please visit "obituaries" at  www.moore-fh.com.

 Moore- Blanchard Funerals & Cremations is serving the family.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Gilbert G Wagi.




xAG2 Thomas A. Heggie, Sr., USN REL

September 29, 1945 to June 12, 2020

 

Mr. Thomas Andrew Heggie Sr., 74 formerly of North Adams, MA and Bennington, VT passed away peacefully at his home in Omaha on Friday June 12, 2020. He was a beloved husband , wonderful father and loving grandfather. The son of Norman F. and Blanche (Crofts) Heggie Sr., he was born in North Adams on September 29, 1945. He was a graduate of Drury High School and served in the US Navy during the Vietnam War. Tom was a truck driver throughout his life and had worked for United Parcel Service, Modern Dairy, Crescent Creamery and retired from Priority Express.


He enjoyed following NASCAR, attending Navy reunions , he was very active and dedicated to his church- the First Baptist Church of North Adams. In later years he became quite involved with Bennington Project Independence.


He leaves his wife Evelyn Louise (Hathaway) Heggie, daughters Melanie Shartrand of Omaha, Andrea Burdick of Bennington and Stacey Shartrand of Bennington, a son Thomas A. Heggie Jr. of Adams, MA, a brother Norman Heggie Jr., many grandchildren and many great grandchildren, nieces, nephews and cousins.


Due to the current health situation, church services and Military Honors will be postponed until a later date at the First Baptist Church of North Adams.


Memorial gifts may be made to B.P.I. (Bennington Project Independence) in care of the Hanson Walbridge & Shea Funeral Home, 213 West Main Street, Bennington, VT 05201.


Tom graduated AG “A” School on 7/23/65; Class 6511 (381). After A School he served aboard the U.S.S. Thomas J. Gary DER-326) on “Operation Deepfreeze” 65-66 & 66-67. He transferred to the U.S.S. Calcaterra (DER-390) for “Operation Deepfreeze” 67-68. After “DER” duty he was at NAS Willow Grove, PA 1968-1969 where he was released from active duty.

Submitted by Alan D. Baker




AGCM Carl E. Newgent, USN RET
Passed May 14, 2020 at Age 80

Carl E. Newgent, 80, of Niles MI passed away May 14, 2020 at Buchanan Meadows. In keeping with his wish cremation has taken place, and his family will be celebrating his life privately. You can still show your support by sending flowers to the family, or by planting a memorial tree in memory of Carl. 

Had the honour of serving with Carl at Suitland, MD 1975-76. He and Vi were great people. He was the epitome of LCPO.
Jim Romano, NWSA President

In the early 1970s AGCM Newgent was the LCPO of NWSED Willow Grove, PA. His next assignment was Iceland and I believe he also did a tour at Suitland, MD. I first met Carl as a young AG2, on my first hitch in the Navy, at NWSED Willow Grove. He was a fantastic chief— always took care of his sailors. Fair winds and following seas, Carl.
Robert Josephs

AGCM Newgent was LCPO at NXX when I was a weekend warrior AG2 there following my first active duty tour. His positive attitude and terrific leadership abilities were a major factor in my returning to active duty. Rest In Peace.
James Kilmer





AGCS Paul Frederick Johnson, USN RET

February 11, 1937 to April, 27, 2020


Milton, Florida - Paul Frederick Johnson passed away in Milton, Florida, at the age of 83, on Monday, April 27, 2020.

Paul was born in Worcester, Massachusetts, on February 11, 1937, to Holger F. Johnson and Chestine Ethel Johnson. Paul graduated from Leicester High School in 1954. He then enlisted in the Navy that same year and proudly served 22.5 years. Later Paul served as a civilian employee of the US Government for many years at the Pensacola Naval Air Station.

He is preceded in death by his father, Holger F. Johnson, and mother, Chestine Ethel (Lundgran) Johnson.

Paul leaves behind three children, Karl Johnson of Florida, Kenneth Johnson of North Carolina and Elizabeth Johnson Defazio of Florida; siblings, Richard Johnson and Nancy Farnham, both of Massachusetts; and his grandchildren, Halana Johnson of North Carolina, and Bella Defazio of Florida.

Family held a Graveside Service on Friday, May 1, 2020, at Barrancas National Cemetery, with Lewis Funeral Home of Milton directing.

Paul had many interests and was active in his community. He will be deeply missed and will forever reside in our hearts.

Condolences for the family may be left at www.lewisfuneralhomes.net

Lewis Funeral Home, Milton, Florida

Published in Worcester Telegram & Gazette from May 1 to May 3, 2020




CDR George William “Bill” Karch, USN RET

July 28, 1945 to April 13, 2020

George “Bill” William Karch, 74, of Osseo, WI passed away on April 13, 2020 at Mayo Clinic Health System in Eau Claire, WI. 


Bill was born on July 28, 1945, son of George and Margaret (Scruggs) Karch in Columbus, OH. Bill grew up and graduated high School in Columbus, OH.


After high school, Bill joined the United States Navy and attended the Naval academy, graduating in 1970. He then became a meteorologist for the United States Navy and did this for twenty-seven years. 


Bill was a very generous person, donating to the local communities. He loved spending time at the local taverns with friends.


Bill is survived by his brothers, Robert “Bob” Michael Sr. (Connie Sue) Karch and Timothy Craig Karch; nephew, Robert Michael Karch Jr.; great nephew, William Michael Karch; and great nieces, Sabrina and Amanda Karch. 


Memorial services and military honors will be held at a later date.

Schiefelbein Funeral Home of Osseo, WI is assisting the family with arrangements. To plant a tree in memory of George "Bill" William Karch, please visit our Tribute Store (https://tree.tributecenterstore.com/memorial-tree?oId=12706676&source=ta2&taph=2).