In God We Trust
It is with great sadness that the family of Frank Alfano announces his death on December 28, 2011. Frank was born in Brooklyn, New York, October 25, 1931 to Rose and Ralph Alfano. His family affectionately called him Sonny. He joined the U.S. Navy in 1951 and fought for his country in the Korean War as a U.S. Underwater Demolition "Frog Man". He was a New York City fire fighter until an injury forced him to retire. He relocated to Tucson, Arizona in 1971 and became a real estate broker. He was proud to be a charter member of BPO Elks 2532 and helped to support many under privileged children in the Tucson community. Frank was a constant support and hero to his family. He leaves his wife, Shirley Alfano; daughters, Debra Romancho and Joanne Alfano; his son, Ralph Alfano and son-in-law, William Romancho. He will be greatly missed by his sisters, Lucille Salzillo and Linda Alfano as well as grandchildren, Nicole Romancho, Lauren Romancho, Braden Alfano and Jessica Alfano. He was adored by his nieces, Denise, Doreen, Toni Ann and Tammy who lovingly called him their Uncle Sonny. He loved to spend his time outdoors and enjoyed many hours golfing, swimming and hunting. His love of life and fearless spirit will live on in those who loved him.
Howard Edwin Beierle 81, of Harrisonburg, passed away on December 5, 2012 at Rockingham Memorial Hospital surrounded by his family. Mr. Beierle was born January 8, 1931 in Wauwautosa, Wisconsin and was the son of the late Herbert Frank and Ella Kammer Beierle. He was also preceded in death by a brother Raymond Beierle and one sister Mae Kephart. Mr. Beierle served our country in the United States Navy during the Korean War. He was a member of the Navy's U.D.T., Underwater Demolition Team - a precursor to the Navy Seals. He attended Otterbein United Methodist Church and was a member of the Kiwanis Club, Lions Club, Elk Lodge, ESGR Employer Support of Guard and Reserve.? He was past president of the Sleep Apnea Association of Virginia and was a principle owner of Price-Cover Insurance Agency. His passions included hunting, fishing, boating, golfing and spending time with family and friends. On May 16, 1952 he married Audrey Summers Beierle who survives. In addition to his wife he is survived by two sons, Tom Beierle and wife, Brenda of Harrisonburg, James Beierle and wife, Yvonne of Elkton; one brother, Herbert L. Beierle of Campo, California; one sister, Marie McMahon of Wilmington, Delaware; four grandchildren, James Beierle II, Steven Beierle, Amanda Beierle and Tim Beierle; five great grandchildren, Tyler, Brett, Brooklyn, Alexander and Allison. A celebration of Life service will be held 2:00pm Saturday December 8, 2012 at Otterbein United Methodist Church in Harrisonburg with Rev. Ed Pruitt and Rev. Tommy Herndon officiating.The family will receive friends following the service at the church. Burial will be private. Memorial gifts may be made to the Rockingham-Harrisonburg Free Clinic, 25 West Water St., Harrisonburg, Virginia 22801.
Robert Leslie Bell, born December 29, 1928, passed away December 29, 2008. Robert played football at the University of Arizona on a football scholarship. He was a former Marine with the Underwater Demolition Team Services and served in the Korean War. He was a football coach and an educator for 40 years. In addition, he was an administrator for Drug and Alcohol Education Prevention, deputy associate superintendent of the Department of Education for southwestern Arizona, a rancher and cowboy for the last 24 years, and a Pro Rodeo cowboy. He married Jorene Jane Bull (1933-2010) in 1955. They are buried in Bell Cemetery, Sunset, Arizona.
Thomas Blankenship, age 87 of Bessemer, passed away on Sunday, June 9, 2019. He was a member of Shepherd of the Valley Presbyterian Church in McCalla. He served in the US Navy on the Underwater Demolition Team (Navy Seal) during the Korean War. He was retired from US Steel after 35 years of service. He is survived by his wife of 67 years Kathryn Blankenship; two daughters, Vicky Jamison and Terri Piatt; one son Michael Blankenship; two grandchildren, Houston and Abby Piatt; one great grand daughter Kai Salze; several extended family members and a host of friends. The family will receive friends on Thursday, June 13, 2019 from 10 am until 11 am at the McCalla Memorial Funeral Home with services to begin at 11 am in the funeral home chapel. Burial will follow at the Alabama National Cemetery.
Dr. Robert L. "Bob" Blann, 71, of Bowling Green died at 12:30 p.m. June 29, 2003, at his home. The Cicero, Indiana native was a retired professor emeritus at Western Kentucky University, a graduate of Indiana University and Ohio University, a Lutheran and a member of SDX Professional Journalism and Public Relations Society of America. He was a Korean War veteran and served on the underwater demolition team during the Korean War. He was a son of the late Edward Chester Blann and Audna Boone Blann. He was preceded in death by a brother, Edward M. Blann. Funeral will be at 10 a.m. Wednesday at J.C. Kirby & Son Funeral Home, Lovers Lane chapel, with burial in Bowling Green Gardens. Visitation will be from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. Tuesday at the funeral home. Expressions of sympathy may take the form of contributions to Hospice of Southern Kentucky or the American Cancer Society. Survivors include his wife, Leanna Livingston Blann; two sons, Barry Lee Blann and J. Scott Blann, both of Bowling Green; two daughters, Sue Ann Chambliss of Brentwood, Tennessee, and Karen Lynn Clark of Nashville; eight grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.
James E. Burke, 69, passed away peacefully at home on Tuesday May 30, 2006. Jim was born in Stoutland, Missouri, to Fred and Pearl Burke on September 1, 1936. Raised in Wichita, Kansas by Pearl and Samuel Aaron, Jim was a champion swimmer in high school. He served in the Navy during the Korean War as an Underwater Demolition Technician from 1954-1957. After his service, he returned to Kansas and graduated from Wichita State University. In 1960, Jim moved to Oklahoma City to work for Western Electric and soon after married his loving wife, Freda, in 1961. They decided to settle in Yukon in 1962. After working for many OKC companies, Jim chose to open his own accounting practice. Being an accountant for 46 years brought him great joy and pride. Above all, Jim's family and coaching little league football were his greatest loves. He valued and appreciated his clients as well, and of course, truly loved all his coffee shop buddies from Yukon. Jim is survived by Freda, his devoted wife of 44 years; son Mark Burke and wife Tammie of Yukon, OK; daughter Lisa White and husband Greg of Mansfield, TX; granddaughters Jamie and Jessica White of Mansfield, Texas and Ashlyn Burke of Yukon, Oklahoma. The Burke family would like to extend our sincerest thanks to Dr. Sudhir Khanna, Dr. Johnny Mcminn, Jim's nurses from the Dialysis Center of Central Oklahoma, and the team from Faith Hospice. Funeral services will be held Thursday June 1, 2006 at 10:00 a.m. at Yanda and Son Funeral Home, 1500 W. Vandament, Yukon, OK. Interment will follow at the Yukon Cemetery. To honor Jim's memory, please make donations to the American Kidney Fund or the American Cancer Society.
Richard Nelson Carr went to be with our Lord and Savior January 16, 2016. He was 83 years old. Dad was an amazing man. He served in Special Forces in the US Navy during the Korean War with the Underwater Demolition Team which is now known as the elite Navy Seals. He was crowned a Golden Gloves lightweight champion while serving in the Navy. Dad had a playful sense of humor and was a wonderful dancer. More than anything he loved spending time with his family and his special lady, Charlotte Brock, whom he had a loving and affectionate relationship with for many years. For recreation he enjoyed playing Texas Hold Em’ and was a die hard football fan for his alma matter, USC. Dad was a lifelong member of the Elks where he had countless friends. He had 5 children and many grandchildren. He was so loved and will be missed.
Dick Cloud, Jr. passed away peacefully after a short illness on February 24, 2003, at McKenna Memorial Hospital in New Braunfels. He was surrounded by family and loved ones at the time of his death. He was born Oct. 3, 1930, in Abilene, Texas, to Richard Sr. and Anna Mae Cloud. Dick proudly served his country as a Navy Frogman in Underwater Demolition (now Navy SEALS) during the Korean conflict. Upon his discharge from the military service he resumed a 36-year career with Southwestern Bell Telephone Co. Upon being transferred to San Antonio in 1972, he and his family settled in New Braunfels. He was always involved in his children’s activities, which included serving as president of National Little League and Babe Ruth League for several years. He was an avid golfer, and in his retirement found a “second” career in building custom golf clubs and equipment. He was an active member of Oakwood Baptist Church and recently was elected to serve on the Board of Directors of Hope Hospice. Most recently he found enjoyment in his new hobby of watercolor painting. He is survived by his wife of 49 years, Jackie; daughters, Corby Ann Cloud, of Denton, Texas, and Christi Cloud, of New Braunfles; son, Craig, and wife, Kim, of New Braunfels; grandchildren, B.J. Buske, of Corpus Christi, and Kindsley and Kylie Cloud, of New Braunfels; brothers, Allen, and wife, Belma, of Midland, Texas, and Jim, and wife, Kay, of Temple, Ariz.; and numerous nieces an nephews.
Henry Garland Coghill Jr., 87, of Ophelia, Virginia, passed away February 11, 2019. He was born April 4, 1931, in Richmond, Va., son of the late Henry Garland Coghill Sr. and Virginia Fix Coghill. After graduating from Thomas Jefferson High School and Hampden-Sydney College, Hank enlisted in the U.S. Navy and attended Officer's Candidate School in Newport, R.I. He served in the Korean War as part of the Underwater Demolition Team (precursor to the Navy Seals) and later as a UDT instructor at the Naval Amphibious Base Coronado. After honorable discharge, Hank returned to Richmond and joined Miller & Rhoads, where he managed warehouse operations and later the Willow Lawn and downtown flagship stores. He was the last M&R employee when the iconic institution closed. An avid runner and outdoorsman, Hank completed dozens of marathons, including the 100th running of the Boston Marathon at age 65 and he won the first annual Reedville Bluefish Derby. Upon retirement, he moved to Ophelia, Va., where he enjoyed fishing, hunting and memorable times with lifelong friends, Bill "Maverick" Coleman and Buddy "Doc" Liebert and their families; his devoted friend, Ann Dixon; his Pine Shore neighbors and many others. A lifelong volleyball player, Hank also coached the Northumberland High School girls' team. Toward the end of his life, Hank moved to Wesley Chapel, Fla., to be near his daughter and her husband. Hank will long be remembered for his quick wit, sharp mind, loyalty, jitterbug dance moves, cut-off jeans, beach-combing expeditions and love for music, people and labs. He was a fixer, builder and meticulous record keeper. His innate kind and gentle nature belied his fierce determination and grit. Hank was predeceased in death by his wife, Marie Justis Coghill; and granddaughter, Kaitlin Marie Lyda. He is survived by his daughter, Michelle C. Forcke and her husband, Ed; sister, Jean Coghill Patterson of Williamsburg; nephews, James Patterson (Melinda), John Patterson (Lynette) and Robert Patterson (Michelle); and many great-nieces and nephews. The family will host a private celebration of Hank's life later this year. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Northumberland County Rescue Squad, 412 Reed Avenue, Reedville, Virginia. 22539.
Floyd Ellsworth Cox, age 89, of Roosevelt, passed away May 26, 2019 at the Sr. Villa.
Floyd was born December 1, 1929 in Myton to Ellsworth Willard and Arloia Jones Cox. He married Jean Meyer on December 16, 1996 in Roosevelt. They were sealed in the Vernal Temple on September 10, 2005. She died June 24, 2010. Floyd graduated from Wasatch High School and immediately joined the Navy, serving for 22 years before his retirement. During the Korean War he was an underwater demolition expert. He boxed in the Golden Gloves tournaments. He retired from the Tooele Army Depot. He was one of the youngest sailors to receive the rank of Boatswain’s Mate. He was a 4-H horse leader for 14 years and a boy scout leader for 17 years. He was one of the last adults to receive his Eagle Scout Award. He loved to dance and was part of the Myton Stomp, during his youth. He danced and entertained on the ship during his Navy years and he and Jean square danced after he got older. He was a successful Rancher working 3500 acres and working numerous cattle through the years.
He loved singing and was known for his yodeling skills. He was proud to be a grandson of Shelby Deacon Jones of the Cherokee Indian Nation. He is survived by his children, Cindy (David) Kempff, West Jordan; Rodney (Leslee) Cox, St. George; Eric (Sherrie) Cox, Roosevelt; Lance (Marie) Cox, Roosevelt; Wade Cox, SLC; Lori (Tracy) Williams, Bluebell; Heather (Jim) Frasier, Kearns; daughter by heart, Denene (Ben) Whetman, South Jordan; 30 grandchildren, 51 great grandchildren and 3 great-great grandchildren, siblings, Illina Wood, Riverton; Judy (Bob) Anderson, Ephraim; and Larry Cox, St. George.
He was preceded in death by his parents, wife, Jean Cox, siblings, Elma Broadhead, Helen Wilde, Glen Cox, Alvin Cox, Clarence Cox and Claudia Kemp. The family would like to thank the Parkside Manor and the Sr. Villa for their loving care of Floyd. Funeral services will be held on Saturday, June 1, 2019 at 11:00 a.m. at the Myton Chapel of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. Viewings will be held on Friday evening at the Hullinger Mortuary, 457 East 300 North, from 6 - 8 p.m. and Saturday at the church from 10:00 - 10:45 a.m. Burial in the Roosevelt Memorial Park with military honors presented by the Navy Honor Guard, Myton American Legion and the Patriot Guard Riders.
Alphee Henri Ducharme was born February 29, 1924 on the second floor of a cold tenement building. The location was in "Little Canada" in the slums of Lowell, Massachusetts. As one of eight surviving children, he knew what it was like to wear hand-me-down clothing, salvage scrap from and swim in the river, shovel snow for the elderly, deliver 50 pound blocks of ice from the ice house to third floor apartments, and to always be available to do his share. He attended Catholic schools from elementary through high school. He worked in a bakery to earn day-old bread and later delivered groceries at Shrimp Gordon's market to earn enough for a bicycle. Alphee quit school in 1940 and went to work in a shoe factory. The family's diner business was failing and most of the family went to work in the shoe factory. Dutch rose to the position of "Hide Splitter". In 1941, Dutch went to work as a laborer for a construction company learning to use a jack hammer. Deciding that there were better occupations, he joined the Marine Corps in 1942. After basic training, he was sent to Samoa to learn land clearing operations. He operated a rock crusher in New Caledonia, and then went to Australia and New Zealand where he joined the USMC 18th Engineers. In his first battle, Tarawa, the boat he was in was knocked out 300 yards from shore. There was machine gun fire and shells bursting all around and too many casualties and injured to count. Eddie Albert was in the rescue boat which removed the injured; and pulled the boat Dutch was in out of the immediate line of fire. On the boat a hydraulic pump was used to keep his boat from sinking. He, with those remaining, was later rescued by Destroyer #607. Alphee later participated in action on Saipan, Tinian, Okinawa, Heya Shima, and Aguni Shima. After the war Dutch served at Quantico, VA, Hawaii and Guam. He later served in China when the communists overran that country. In later years he met Terri, the wife of Congressional Medal of Honor winner Jimmie Howard. As Jimmie's former Sgt. Major, he was invited to ride with Jimmie in the Grand Marshal's car in the Wisconsin Cheese Festival Parade. At the start of the Korean War, Dutch sailed with the 1st Marine Brigade and took part in action at the Pusan Perimeter, landing at Inchon, the assault and re-capture of Seoul and the Wonsan landing. While at Wonsan, he worked with Underwater Demolition Team #3 as a frogman. During the Chosen Reservoir Campaign, he worked as a demolition expert in the destruction of bridges, pill boxes, rail transportation, and all other equipment and supplies left behind by our forces. On returning to the United States, he was assigned duties as Senior Instructor at the Demolition School, Camp Lejeune, North Carolina. In 1954, his career took him to Germany, where he took over as NCO in charge of Marine Security Guard Detachments at the office of the U.S. Commissioner and Consular Offices for Germany. His travel took him all over Europe. On the completion of his tour of duty, he served subsequent tours in the U.S., Okinawa, and Japan. His assignment as a Special Projects Officer in Vietnam required him to travel throughout that country. During the accomplishment of his duties, he was on over 200 flights by all types of aircraft enabling him to observe the various American forces and foreign allies in action. Following his Vietnam service, he was Sergeant Major of the USMC Recruiting Station in Chicago, Illinois. After serving his country for 26 years, he transferred to the Fleet Reserve in 1970 and moved to California. In addition to the Bronze Star Medal with Combat "V", Sergeant Major Ducharme was awarded a Commendation Medal, a Secretary of the Navy Commendation Medal, Presidential Unit Citation, Good Conduct Medal (7th Award), American Theater Medal, Asiatic-Pacific Medal (with 4 stars), Victory Medal (World War II), China Service Medal, Navy Occupation Medal (Europe), National Defense Service Medal (with 1 star), Marine Corps Expeditionary Medal, Korean Presidential Unit Citation (3rd Award), Korean Campaign Medal (with 4 stars), Vietnam Service Medal and United Nations Medal. He moved with his wife Marjorie to Anaheim, CA and went to work for McDonnell Douglas, in Long Beach. He was thrilled to meet the astronauts and many other dignitaries where his knack for languages stood him in good stead as he was able to greet most of them in their native tongues. In 1976 following colon cancer surgery, Alphee went into a coma. He was in the coma for almost 30 days. During this time, he had vivid dreams of a beautiful and bright place where he was told he would be returning later because he still had work to do on earth. When he woke up and started speaking, it was in French! Fortunately, his doctor spoke fluent French and was able to tell the nurses that Alphee was not incoherent. As soon as Alphee was able, he went to confession at his local church. He later purchased a medal at the gift shop and asked Our Lady of Guadalupe to pray for him. While he was healing, he participated in many of the lay ministries of the church and was later commissioned as a Eucharistic Minister bringing communion to and visiting the sick. During his visitations to the sick, he discovered the necessity of visiting those in care centers. He hoped his service would inspire others to serve those less fortunate. Among the many things Alphee will be remembered for are his storytelling abilities and his prolific composition of patriotic and religious poetry culminating in a book written about the First Christmas. Alphee is survived by his wife Marjorie; his three children; Cindy Rhea from Joplin Missouri, Denice Ducharme from San Diego California, Richard Ducharme from Moreno Valley California; two grandchildren, Julie Stutt from Joplin, Missouri and Travis Ducharme from Moreno Valley, California; two great-grandchildren, Juliana Mares-Ducharme from Newborn, North Carolina and Nicholas Ducharme from Moreno Valley; one brother, Alfred Ducharme from Seal Beach, California; one sister-in-law, Christine Lingle from Lamar, Colorado; as well as numerous cousins, nieces, nephews, and lifelong friends.
Richard C. Dunaetz, 87, born March 16, 1930, passed away peacefully at home on March 25, 2017. He is survived by his devoted wife Arlene, loving daughter Nancy Dennis (Patrick) and granddaughters Lauren and Chelsea Uhl and Claire Dennis, and beloved dog,Teddy. Predeceased by parents Elsie and Arthur Dunaetz and brother Robert Dunaetz, Rich always had a smile and kind comment, and brought joy to everyone who encountered him. His natural athleticism led to his lifetime love of swimming, scuba diving, and ocean sports. A lifelong resident of Los Angeles, Rich attended Los Angeles High School, where he ran for the track team, and was a member of the U.S. Naval Reserve. After graduation, Rich attended Los Angeles City College, until he was called to naval service. In 1950, Rich met the love of his life Arlene. They married in December 1951. Rich and Arlene celebrated their 65th anniversary in 2016. Rich served in the U.S. Navy during the Korean War, initially on an Underwater Demolition Team, and later as a Petty Officer on the Badoeng Strait. Rich earned the National Defense Service Medal, Korean Service Ribbon (2 stars), and United Nations Service Medal. Rich was a dedicated and loving father to Stephen and Nancy. He served as Chief of the Kiowa Nation for the YMCA Indian Guides, and as coach of the YMCA junior and high school football, basketball, volleyball, and track teams. His only regret was that Stephen passed away too early in 1981. As a sales engineer in the electronic components industry for over 30 years, Rich worked alongside engineers creating the precursors to today's computers. Rich and Arlene traveled the world, visiting every continent except Antarctica, often with family and friends. After retirement, Rich enjoyed surf trips to Hollister Ranch, becoming the "camp cook" when his diving days ended. Rich devoted his time to his daughter and grandchildren, whom he adored and helped to raise. After a long and eventful life, Rich chose to leave this world on his own terms. He will be sorely missed, but he will be remembered as a wonderful husband, father, grandfather, and friend. Services will be held on Sunday, April 2 at 10 a.m. at Mount Sinai Memorial Park and Cemetery, 5950 Forest Lawn Dr., Los Angeles. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the City of Hope, ORT, or to The Klausner Education and Research Fund, c/o UCLA Health Sciences Development.
Donald Dupain, 79, of Hickory, died Thursday, September 13, 2012 at Canonsburg Hospital. He was born April 5, 1933 in Allegheny County, a son of the late George and Elizabeth (Gentile) Dupain. Mr. Dupain served in the U.S. Navy during the Korean war and was a member of the Underwater Demolition Team, which today is know as the Navy Seals. He worked as an operator at Weirton Steel, which became National Steel before he retired in 1982. Mr. Dupain was a member of the U.S.W.A. and a member of the 25 Year Club of Weirton Steel. He was a member of the Avella American Legion Post #643, the McDonald V.F.W. Post #567, the McDonald American Legion Post #485, the Midway S.N.P.J. and the Avellla Sportsman's Club. On December 23, 1955, he married Katherine A. Gzikowski, who survives. Also surviving are a son, Donald C. (Patricia) Dupain of Burgettstown; a daughter, Deborah L. Dupain Diserio of Weirton, WV; a brother, Ronald Dupain of Avella; six grandchildren, Maria (Vincent) Dunn, Robert (Heather) Dornan Jr., Eric (Julie) Dornan, Antonio, Katherine and Derrick Diserio; and three great grandchildren, Vincent Dunn Jr., Jillian Dornan and Jocelyn Rae Webb. Deceased are three brothers, George, Robert and William Dupain; and a sister, Betty Cook. Friends will be received from 6-8 p.m. Sunday and from 2-4 and from 6-8 p.m. Monday at Nation Funeral Home, Inc., 220 E. Lincoln Ave., McDonald, where services will be held at 10:00 am on Tuesday, September 18 with Rev. Douglas Reinard officiating. Burial will follow in National Cemetery of the Alleghenies, Bridgeville. Memorial contributions may be made on behalf of the family to Nation Funeral Home, 218 E. Lincoln Ave., McDonald, PA 15057.
Funeral service will be conducted for Mr. Howard Ferguson Jr., 75, at 1 p.m. Wednesday, December 21, 2005, at Evangeline Funeral Home, New Iberia, with the Rev. Steve Horn officiating. Interment at Memorial Park Mausoleum. Visitation at the funeral home on Tuesday from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. and on Wednesday from 9 a.m. until service time. Mr. Ferguson was a native of Lake Dauterive and resident of New Iberia and Lake Charles. He passed away at 5:26 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 18, at a Lafayette hospital. Mr. Ferguson was a veteran, having served in the Navy during the Korean War as a member of the frogman underwater demolition team. He played football with the Navy League Amphibian Division and was an MVP, earning second-team All-Navy honors two years in a row. Howard played football for New Iberia Senior High. After his service in the Navy, he went on to play for the Los Angeles Rams and was traded as a free agent to the Green Bay Packers in 1953. Howard finished second in the NFL in yards rushing in 1955 despite not having played in college. In 1960, he played his final season with the Los Angeles Chargers, who played in the first American Football League Championship game in 1960. In 1974, he was inducted into the Green Bay Packers Hall of Fame. Mr. Ferguson returned to New Iberia to Klein Deco as a field operator, then moved to Lake Charles. In 1977, Mr. Ferguson along with Mike Fournet began F&F Wireline, where he worked until his retirement in 2002. He enjoyed playing golf, snow- and water-skiing, boating, fishing, traveling, especially to Las Vegas, going to dinner with friends, and most of all enjoyed piloting his own plane. He is survived by his daughter, Cathy Ann Willis; three grandchildren, Sondra "Sunnie" Willis, Lisa Willis Hopkins and Gary Willis Jr.; three great-grandchildren; a brother, Ralph Ferguson and his wife, Theresa; nieces and nephews, Wayne Ferguson, Barry Ferguson, Susan Williams, Sheila Mankin and Bonnie Segura; and many cherished friends and relatives. He was preceded in death by his parents, Howard and Pearl Crowson Ferguson, Sr.; his son, Marc Jon Ferguson, brother, Jerry Lee Ferguson, niece, Jill Ferguson, and former wife, Teedie Ferguson. Pallbearers will be David Huddle, Clark Gunderson, Mike Fournet, Gerald Quarles, Chuck Hebert, Steve Teddlie and Perry Segura, Ray Todd, Jerold Case, Russel Fowler, Earl Patton and Harold "Chip" Lopez. "God saw that I was getting tired and a cure was not to be, so he put his arms around me and whispered, 'Come home with me.' I took his hand when I heard Him call, I turned my back and left you all. If my parting has left a void, then fill it with remembered joy. So grieve a while for me if you must, then let your grief be comforted by trust. You must not tie yourselves to me with tears, but you must thank God that we had so many years. And then, when you must come this way, too, I'll greet you with a smile, knowing that the Lord has welcomed you."
Anthony "Skip" Flora, age 79, passed away on Monday, January 10, 2011, at home surrounded by his loving family. Funeral is from the Quinn-Hopping Funeral Home, 145 E. Mt. Pleasant Ave., Livingston, New Jersey, on Thursday, Jan. 13, 2011, at 9 a.m. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated in St Rose of Lima Church, East Hanover, N.J., at 10 a.m. The family will receive their friends on Wednesday, Jan. 12, 2011, from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m. Born in Orange, N.J., Mr. Flora lived in West Caldwell for many years before moving to East Hanover five years ago. He served in the U.S. Navy SEALs as an underwater demolition "Frogman" during the Korean War and was a member of the Navy SEALs Association. He retired as a lieutenant from the Essex County Police Department after 25 years. He is survived by his beloved wife, Nancy Flora (nee Bisco); devoted father of Anthony, Glenn, Jennifer, Eric and his wife, Barbara. He is also survived by his cherished grandchildren, Bob, Ryan and Amanda; dear brother of Louis and his wife, Dorothy, Dr. Alphonse and his wife, Louise, Alba and her husband, Anthony, Cecilia and her husband, James, Gregory and his wife, Maria, and brother-in-law, Albert Bisco. He is also survived by many loving nieces, nephews and friends. He was always willing to help others and was an inspiration to many and will be missed by all. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to St. Michael's Medical Center Foundation, Attn: Anita Holland, 1160 Raymond Blvd., Newark, New Jersey 07102
Luke Everett Fontenot was escorted to his heavenly home by Jesus on the 20th day of June, 2014, as he was surrounded by family and friends at his home in Zachary, Louisiana. Everett is survived by his beloved wife of nearly 60 years, Dolores, 4 children: Becky Kephart, William Keith Fontenot and wife Casey, Jennine Newsom and husband Jay, Luke E. A. Fontenot and wife, Deanna; 11 Grandchildren: Blake Kephart, Kandice Fontenot, Chad Fontenot and wife Emma, Kyle Kephart and wife Kayla, Cody Newsom and wife Katy, Lane Fontenot, Kelsey Fontenot, Jonathan Newsom, and Amy Newsom, Cort Decoteau and Cassie Decoteau; 10 Great-Grandchildren: Mackenzie, Anna, Colin, Riley, Dakota, Mari Grace, Colt, Benjamin, Katelyn, Madison, and 4 sisters: Bonnie Kane, Terry Sylvester, Glenna Ledoux, and Aline Chaney; Sister-in Laws: Elvina Fontenot and Jeanette Matzinger. He is preceded in death by his parents, Marcellus and Mabel Fontenot, and his 3 brothers: Jenior Fontenot, Robert Fontenot, Burton Fontenot. Everett was born in Grand Prairie (Goyo), La. on February 11, 1931, and attended school through graduation at Grand Prairie High School in 1948, studying by kerosene lamp. From 1950 to 1954 Everett served our country as a member of the underwater demolition team in the U.S. Korean War. After the war he went to work for American Cyanamid (1954-57) and was encouraged to attend college. Everett attended University of Southwestern Louisiana-USL (ULL) in Lafayette, Louisiana from 1957-1961, where he earned his degree in chemical engineering. He began his career in the water treatment business in which he became a pioneer in the use of chemicals (especially polymers) for the treatment of water for public and commercial use in the United States. He is well known as an expert in this industry. In 1976, he and 3 partners started Pearl River Chemical Corporation which grew from a start-up company to a highly successful business. He then sold the company to Atlantic Richfield, expecting to retire. After selling, Atlantic Richfield asked him to stay with them and he did for many years. In 1996, he found a quiet place in Centreville, Mississippi, far from anyone, and opened a new water treatment business, Polymer Research Corporation. Once again, he built a company from the ground up, becoming extremely successful. In 2011 he finally entered retirement from the water treatment business to enjoy his lifelong passion of raising cattle. This includes Brahman, Gelbvieh, and F-1 cattle. Throughout his life he was very active in 4-H and FFA, including participating himself and supporting others with their livestock projects. He touched the lives of many livestock project members by providing show cattle and resources so they could show prize winning purebred Brahman, Gelbvieh, commercial heifers, and steers. Above all, he had a strong faith in family and God. Throughout his entire life his values were evident in his humble generosity to family, friends, the church, and community at large. He was a quiet man who blessed all with his smile, open heart, and listening ear. He will surely be missed by all. Visitation services will be held at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, 4727 McHugh Drive, Zachary, Louisiana on Wednesday, June 25, 2014 at 10:00 am with recitation of the Rosary at 9:45 am, and the funeral mass from 11:30 -12:30 pm. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to: St. John the Baptist Catholic Church: Continuing the Legacy of Faith, 4727 McHugh Drive, Zachary, La. 70791 or St. Jude Research Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN. Special Appreciation to: Caregivers: Geraldine Curtis and Wanda Gray; Eucharistic Minister: Mrs. Paula Hollingsworth, East Feliciana Home Health Services, Baton Rouge Hospice, Dr. Gerald Militello, Dr. Andrew Guidroz, Dr. Joseph Dupont, Dr. William Russell, Dr. Richard Cooley and the staff at Hematology Oncology Clinic, BR Radiology Imaging Center and to Reverend Jeffrey Bayhi, Mr. Ric Smith, the staff at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, and our Roman Pilgrim Family.
Thomas E. Galles, 88, of Greeley Colorado peacefully passed away on Sunday September 17th, 2017. Born on January 17th, 1929 in Port Washington, Wisconsin to Leo and Emily (Millie) Galles, Tom grew up in Port Washington, graduated from Port Washington High School in 1946 and then from Marquette University in 1950 with a degree in Electrical Engineering. He had a love of airplanes and flying as a kid, took lessons as a teenager, and eventually owned his own plane in his early twenties and would fly back and forth between Florida, Virginia and Wisconsin. As a young man, Tom served his country as a distinguished Naval Officer, including a combat deployment to Korea in 1952 where he received the Legion of Merit Medal "for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services." He continued to serve as a member of the elite UDT’s (Underwater Demolition Teams now known as the SEAL teams) following his combat tour in Korea. In 1956 Tom was hired by the Central Intelligence Agency and traveled extensively throughout the Middle East, Europe and Asia continuing to serve his country. In 1963 Tom began his civilian life and worked for The Mitre Corporation, Computer Sciences Corporation and Aramco. He lived in Florida, California, Texas and Saudi Arabia during those years but spent much of his adult life in McLean, Virginia before moving to Greeley, Colorado with his wife JoAnn. After retiring in 1992, Tom married his high school sweetheart, JoAnn, and they spent a few years at his Duck, N.C. beach home. He enjoyed taking long walks on the beach and surf fishing. He continued to be an avid boater, his boat was named “Tondelayo”, and they took many boating journeys along the east coast. In 1994 they moved to Greely, and purchased a cabin in the mountains where the family spent many days relaxing on the deck watching the flow of the Poudre River and fishing, hiking and exploring. Tom developed a love for wood carving later in life and worked very hard to develop his craft, he won several blue ribbons for his pieces. He is survived by his childhood sweetheart and wife of 25 years JoAnn; brother Don (Claire); sons Scott and Steve (Margaret); daughter Robin and step-daughter Ann Lacefield; step-grandchildren Sean (Mary) and Scott (Ashley); step great grandchildren Isabel, Owen, Tegan and Jenny. Tom is preceded in death by his parents Leo and Emily; sisters Mary Ellen and Ruth; and brother Jean. A Memorial Mass will be held at St. Mary’s Church on Friday, October 6th, 11:30 am with burial to follow at Sunset Memorial Gardens. In lieu of flowers gifts may be made to the Alzheimer's Association in Tom’s memory.
Thomas W. “Tim” Gehret, 87, Hollidaysburg, passed away Wednesday [July 26, 2017] at Hollidaysburg Veterans Home. He was born in Altoona, son of the late Wilber Floyd and Helen (Hollern) Gehret, on May 07, 1930. Surviving are his wife, Annabelle (Rock); three sons: Thomas, Robert and David Gehret; two daughters: Jane Cristia and Patricia Onsurez; 10 grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren; his only brother, Patrick Gehret; one niece, Amy Dodd; and three nephews: Steve, Michael and Daniel Gehret. Tim grew up in Altoona and was a graduate of Altoona High School. After high school, he enlisted in the U.S. Marines with subsequent enlistments in the U.S. Navy and U.S. Air Force. After more than 20 years of service, he retired from the Air Force at the rank of master sergeant. While in the Navy, he proudly served his country during the Korean War with a Navy Underwater Demolition Team. He was the recipient of the WWII Victory Medal, Korean Service Medal, China Service Medal, Combat Action Ribbon, Five Bronze Stars and a Presidential Commendation. He also was a graduate of the University of Nebraska, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in education. After military retirement, he worked at Puritan as a personnel analyst. Subsequently, he retired as director of human resource and management for Blair County Valley View Home. Tim was a longtime member of St. Catherine’s of Sienna Catholic Church, Duncansville. He was also a member of the VFW, American Legion and a member and commander of Catholic War Veterans. He was a lifetime member of Disabled American Veterans, serving as commander of DAV Chapter 34, commander of DAV District 7 and DAV State Chaplain. He was a loving and generous father and grandfather. Friends will be received from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. Monday, July 31, 2017, at E. Merrill Smith Funeral Home Inc., 2309 Broad Ave., Altoona. A funeral Mass will be celebrated at 11 a.m. Monday, at St. Catherine of Sienna Catholic Church, Duncansville, Monsignor Robert Saly celebrant. Committal will be at Alto-Reste Park Cemetery.
Donations in Tim’s name may be made payable to Van Zandt VA Medical Center, 2907 Pleasant Valley Blvd., Altoona, Pennsylvania 16602.
Alfred Donald “Don” Goings, 78, husband of Norma Purvis Goings, died May 24, 2010. Born August 25, 1931 in Atlanta, Georgia, he was the son of the late Ollie and Byrice Goings. He served his country in the US Navy in underwater demolition, a precursor to the Navy Seals, during the Korean War. Don retired from Akzo Nobel. He was a member of Bethel Baptist Church. Surviving in addition to his wife are his four children, Jeffrey Goings; Michael Goings; Lisa Bruns; and Gina Phillips; five brothers and sisters, Kenneth Goings; Tommy Goings; Grady Goings; Virginia Carroll; and Debbie Wentworth; fifteen grandchildren and eight great grandchildren. Funeral services will be held Thursday at 2pm at The Mackey Mortuary. Burial will follow in Graceland East Memorial Park. The family will receive friends Wednesday evening from 7 – 8:30pm at the mortuary. Memorials may be made to Bethel Baptist Church, 403 Sulphur Springs Road, Greenville, South Carolina 29617.
A loving husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather, John Robert Hebert died at 11 p.m. Sunday, May 31, 2009, at his home. He was 77, a native of Baton Rouge and resided on False River in Jarreau for the past 10 years. Survived by his wife of nearly 47 years, Vicky Perrodin Hebert; son, Charles Hebert, his wife, Christal Corbett Hebert, of Central, and their children, Lindsey, Ally, Carlie and Jessica; daughter, Robin Hebert Martinez, her husband, Ray Martinez, of Central, and their children, Raychel, Ramie and Robert John; great-granddaughter, Mckenzie Adams; son, James Hebert, his wife, Kristen Kilbride Hebert, of Hammond, and their children, Samantha, Morgan and Taylor; soon-to-be-born grandson, John Robert Hebert; daughter, Renee Hebert Arcuri, her husband, Dr. Nick Arcuri, of Springfield, and their son, Nico Arcuri. He is also survived by a brother and sister-in-law, Fred and Anita Hebert; sisters-in-law, Marie Hebert, Rita Hebert, Elaine Hebert and Wanda Reed; and brother-in-law, Pete Perrodin. Preceded in death by his parents, Albert Sidney Hebert and Mary Helena Labauve Hebert; parents-in-law, Murphy and Percy Perrodin, who were of Ville Platte; brothers, Sydney, Carlyle "Joe," Thomas and Jimmy Hebert; sister, Sister Mary Helena, C.S.J.; and sisters-in-law, Betty Perrodin and Shirley Hebert. Pallbearers will be Charles White, Bing Croswell, Frank Manno Sr., Don York, Jerry Cannon and Mike Milano. Honorary pallbearers are ohn was a member of the 1950 state championship football team at Istrouma High School and was a member of an underwater demolition team and a frogman (precursor to the Navy SEALS). He proudly served his country in the Korean War and after an honorable discharge from the U.S. Navy, attended Texarkana Junior College and Southwestern Louisiana University in Lafayette on a football scholarship. He had worked at Kaiser Aluminum and Copolymer Chemical. Visitation at Rabenhorst Funeral Home East, 11000 Florida Blvd., on Tuesday, June 2, was from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. Visitation resumes at Our Lady of Mercy Catholic Church, 445 Marquette Ave., on Wednesday from 1 p.m. until Mass of Christian Burial at 2 p.m., concelebrated by the Rev. Vic Messina and the Rev. Miles Walsh. Burial with military honors will follow at Roselawn Memorial Park.
Clyde Howard Henderson, 77, of 219 N. Howard Ave., Landrum died January 11, 2010 at Smith Phayer Hospice House. A native of Chesnee, South Carolina, he was the son of the late Clyde and Ollie Henderson. He is survived by his son, Thomas Henderson (Wendy) of Landrum, daughter Lori Stelma of Lake Mary, Florida; sister, Bernice H. Price (Charles) of Landrum; grandchildren Megan and Elizabeth Stelma, Skylar and Alex Henderson and Katherine Downey; as well as numerous nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his sister Muriel H. Underwood. He retired from the United States Navy as a Chief Petty Officer after 20 years of service, having served in Korea as a member of the Underwater Demolition Team and in Vietnam aboard the USS Forrestal. After his military service, he worked as a civil engineer for Soil and Material Engineers in Spartanburg until his retirement. He was a loving father, doting grandfather and true friend who will be missed by all who knew him. The family will receive friends from 12:00pm - 1:00pm Thursday, January 14, 2009 at Petty Funeral Home. Funeral services will follow at 1:00 pm in the funeral home chapel. Burial will be in Springhill Memorial Gardens, Chesnee, South Carolina with military honors. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Hospice of the Carolina Foothills, 130 Forest Glen Drive, Columbus, North Carolina 28722.
Elmer J. Hessenius Jr., 82, of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, died Friday, Oct. 16, 2015, at St. Luke’s Hospital, Cedar Rapids. Services: 10:30 a.m. Friday, Oct. 23, at Murdoch-Linwood Funeral Home & Cremation Service, Cedar Rapids. Family will greet friends from 4 to 8 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 22, at the funeral home. Burial: Walker Cemetery, Walker, Iowa, with military rites. He is survived by his wife, Eva of Cedar Rapids; children, Deb (Loren) Ellis, Vera (Dean) Cummings and Char Brandau, all of Independence, Iowa, and Elmer “Johnny” Hessenius III of Cedar Rapids; seven grandchildren; 18 stepchildren; many great-grandchildren, step-grandchildren and step-great-grandchildren; and siblings, Eleanor Suckow of Cedar Rapids and Evelyn Buol of Centerton, Ark. He was preceded in death by his parents; and siblings, Esther Kimler and Eldon Hessenius.Elmer was born on Sept. 27, 1933, in Tama County, Iowa, son of Elmer and Emma (Kolpek) Hessenius Sr. He graduated from McKinley High School in Cedar Rapids. He served in the U.S. Navy in underwater demolition during the Korean War. On July 3, 1993, he married Eva (Mittan) Wright in Cedar Rapids. Elmer worked for Local 43, Blanik Construction and Quaker Oats. He was a member of the American Legion. Elmer enjoyed fishing, traveling, NASCAR and the Iowa Hawkeyes.A memorial fund has been established in Elmer’s memory.
John Hillan died February 17, 2019. "Jack", as he was known to all, passed gently from this life with his children at his side. He was in the Milpitas house he called home for the past ten years, where he fought Alzheimer's disease, cared for by his devoted daughter Annette. Jack kept his love of music and beauty, his patient bearing, and quick wit right until the end. He lifted all who met him. Born in Detroit, Jack moved to his parents' native Scotland at five years of age. With the harsh upbringing of a coal miner's son, he nonetheless gained an education that would serve him all his working life. Immigrating back to the U.S., he joined the Navy, serving on the elite Underwater Demolition Team during the Korean War. Returning to Detroit in 1955, Jack married his English sweetheart Elsie and started his own family. After working for Chrysler Corporation as a draftsman for six years, he brought his family to Santa Clara where he lived while serving Lockheed Missiles and Space as a design engineer for almost three decades. Jack savored his life in California, deeply appreciative of the warm weather, delicious food and drink, prosperous conditions and natural beauty, all scarce in the Glasgow mining village of his youth. Much admired for his tenor voice, Jack was an active member of the church choir at the First Presbyterian Church of Santa Clara where he also taught Sunday school, and served as a church elder for many years. He loved the garden, designing many beautiful landscapes, and maintaining a lifelong membership in the Santa Clara Camellia Society. He wore many other hats, among them accomplished oil painter, avid sailor, student of history and entertaining piano player. He especially enjoyed hosting many foreign exchange students, and travel with his loving wife. Humor, music, and generosity were themes throughout his life, blessing all those around him. Jack is survived by his grateful children Malcolm Hillan, Annette Jester, and Marie Ballard (Bruce); grandchildren Lore Kostyanovsky (Andrew), Barbara Valiando (Mike), Alexander and Christopher Hillan, and Jeremiah Benjamin Ballard; great-grandchildren Violet and Lucy Valiando and Adeline Kostyanovsky. Jack is also survived by his brother Jimmy Hillan (Brenda) and his faithful friend Patricia Brown. His devoted wife Elsie passed in 2004. As close to Jack as any family member is Sarum "Sarah" Talivaa who assisted Jack for over ten years as he fought multiple health issues with courage and dignity. Jack had a big heart, brightening the lives of all he met. He will be missed enormously. A memorial service will be held at Berge-Pappas-Smith Chapel of the Angels in Fremont on Saturday March 16th at 11 a.m. He will be laid to rest at Sacramento Valley National Cemetery. Jack loved flowers, with a special interest in Ikebana, but donations in his name to the Alzheimer's Association would be equally welcome.
Robert D. Kilpatrick, who led Connecticut General Insurance Co. into a mammoth merger that created CIGNA Corp. and then headed the Philadelphia-based giant, died Monday [January 27, 1997] of cancer. He was 72. Mr. Kilpatrick was president and chief executive officer of Connecticut General in Bloomfield in 1981 when he helped engineer the much- debated merger with INA Corp. The combination in 1982 created one of the nation's leading multi-line insurers, joining the property-casualty business of INA with the life and health insurance expertise of Connecticut General. "Bob Kilpatrick was a strong leader with extraordinary vision," said Wilson H. Taylor, CIGNA's current chairman and chief executive. "In many respects, CIGNA is his legacy." The merger, however, cost Connecticut more than 1,000 jobs and left some Connecticut General shareholders bitter when financial results in property-casualty deteriorated. More recently, CIGNA has restructured property-casualty operations because of costly environmental and asbestos claims, and many analysts believe CIGNA will eventually sell the business.
Mr. Kilpatrick was initially co- chief executive of CIGNA and was then named chief executive and president in 1983. He became chairman and chief executive in 1984, retiring in November 1988 but remaining as chairman of the board until November 1989. He continued as a director until 1994.
Active in many national and local business organizations, Mr. Kilpatrick lived in New Hartford and Litchfield more than 30 years while with Connecticut General. He was a resident of Crozier, Virginia, at the time of his death. "He was one of the really solid leaders of the Hartford region," said Kenneth O. Decko, president and chief executive of the Connecticut Business and Industry Association. Mr. Kilpatrick served on its board and executive committee. Decko recalls him as "a low-key and down-to-earth guy" and a good listener who wielded power but also enjoyed driving a tractor around on his Litchfield farm. When Decko asked Mr. Kilpatrick in 1981 to serve as vice chairman of the association, Mr. Kilpatrick told him mysteriously that something might prevent him from taking the post. Five days later, Decko says, the CIGNA merger was announced. During a 40-year career in insurance, Mr. Kilpatrick was active in major industry groups including the American Council of Life Insurance, the American Life Insurance Association and the Health Association of America. He was chairman of the Insurance Association of Connecticut. He also was a trustee of the University of Hartford.
Mr. Kilpatrick was chairman of The Business Roundtable's committee on the Federal Budget and belonged to the Roundtable's policy and planning committees. A native of Fairbanks, Louisiana, Mr. Kilpatrick was in the U.S. Navy in World War II and was awarded the Purple Heart for wounds in combat and the Silver Star for Valor. He was recalled to active Navy duty when the Korean War broke out and stayed until 1954. Mr. Kilpatrick is survived by his wife of 48 years, the former Faye Hines, and by five children.
Richard Kinsella, of West Hartford, Connecticut, passed away on November 13, 2019. Ex-Navy Seal, Diplomat, Patriot, he served his country honorably from 1941 onwards.
Richard was born in Hartford on February 15, 1922, the eldest of three sons, in addition to two daughters, of the late George F. and Dorothea (Mooney) Kinsella. After hitchhiking cross-country to California at the age of 18 and following America’s entrance into World War II in December of 1941, Richard signed with the U.S. Coast Guard for merchant marine training, reaching the level of Deck Officer until ordered to active naval duty in late 1950. When the Korean (Peace Action) War began, he was assigned as a Lieutenant Junior Grade to an Underwater Demolition Team Five (“Frogmen”, precursors of the Navy SEALS) until December of 1952. Afterwards, he attended Georgetown University School of Foreign Service where he graduated, with honors, in 1955. During a summer session in Mexico City, he met and married Conchita Harper Camacho, his wife of more than sixty years. Upon graduation from Georgetown, he worked for the Maritime Administration/Federal Maritime Board (MARAD/FMB) until 1972, when he was selected by the Maritime Administration as Foreign Maritime Representative/Maritime Attaché at the US Embassy in Caracas, Venezuela. In 1976, he was transferred to the Consulate General in Rio de Janeiro, where he remained until retiring in July of 1987. Upon retirement he returned to Connecticut, residing first in Wethersfield until 2005 and West Hartford since.
In addition to wife, Conchita, Richard is survived by: three sons, Marco, Robert and John, and daughter, Dianne; two grandsons, Matthias and Maximilian, and four granddaughters, Liana and her husband William Eller IV, Alaina, Lili and Celine, and great-grandson William Eller. Linda Kinsella, widow of brother George Brendon Kinsella and Anne-Marie Kinsella, widow of James Hall Kinsella, as well as numerous nieces and nephews, also survive him. Richard's seven-year-old son, James Kinsella, his brothers James Hall Kinsella and George Brendon Kinsella, his sisters Catherine S. Hogan, and Mary Ann Kinsella, all predeceased him.
The funeral service will begin 9:00 AM on Tuesday, November 19th, at the Dillon-Baxter Funeral Home, 1276 Berlin Turnpike, Wethersfield. Followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00 AM in St. Augustine Church, 10 Campfield Ave, Hartford. Burial with full military honors will follow in Mt. St. Benedict Cemetery, Bloomfield. Calling hours will be from 5:00 - 8:00 PM on Monday, November 18th, at the funeral home.
Charitable contributions may be made to: Saint Jude Children's Research Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN 38105-33678, or to a charity of the donor's choice.
Joseph E. “Ed” Kuszewski, 83, passed away Monday, June 8, 2015, at UMass Memorial Healthcare-University Campus after a sudden illness. He leaves his wife of 54 years, Janet O. (Anderson) Kuszewski; his son, Steven J. Kuszewski of Spencer and his girlfriend Laura Bailey; his beloved grandchildren, Faye, Felicity and Skylah; his sister, Josephine Cody of Worcester; his brother-in-law, Ronald Anderson and his wife Betty of Worcester and many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by two sisters, Jeannette Cosenza and Irene Vauchon. Joseph was born in Putnam, CT the son of William and Rebecca (Paul) Kuszewski. Ed served in the Navy during the Korean War with the Underwater Demolition Team, later known as the Navy SEALs. He would go on to work at Cincinnati Milicron, a division of Heald Machine and would work for 36 years before retiring as a supervisor. Ed was a member of Alhambra Council, Knights of Columbus #88 and enjoyed spending time with his family especially his three grandkids. Ed’s visiting hours will be held on Thursday, June 11th from 5:00 to 7:00 pm at Lindquist Lundin Funeral Hosme, 36 Butler Street, Worcester. His Funeral Service will be held on Friday, June 12th at 10:00 am in the funeral home. Burial will follow in Worcester County Memorial Park, Paxton. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St Jude Place, Memphis, Tennessee 38105.
Vincent R. Kramer, 83, of the Basking Ridge section of Bernards Township, died on Monday, September 17, 2001, at Morris Hills Multicare Center in Morristown. Born in Paterson, he attended the Bordentown Military Institute and Rutgers College under football scholarships. Upon his graduation from Rutgers in 1941, her was commissioned as a second lieutenant in the Marine Corps. In June 1942, he married his college sweetheart, Barbara Waters. Col. Kramer saw action on Guadalcanal and later in China during World War II. During the Korean War, he was awarded the Navy Cross and eight battle stars for his heroism in leading amphibious assaults behind enemy lines. Colonel Kramer worked with the French Foreign Legion in Indochina in 1952 and later in Vietnam on General Westmoreland's staff from 1963-64. Colonel Kramer retired from the military in 1964 and settled in Basking Ridge. He served as secretary of the Rutgers Alumni Association until his retirement in 1987.
Graveside services for Clyde Olney LeNoir, Jr. will be held Thursday, May 25, 2017, at 11 a.m. at Magnolia Cemetery. Don Wheeler will officiate, with Robert Barham Family Funeral Home in charge of the arrangements. Mr. LeNoir, age 85, of Meridian, passed away May 20, 2017 at Rush Hospital. Clyde was born September 3, 1931 in Mt. Sterling, Alabama to Clyde Onley LeNoir, Sr. and Mary Bruister Nettles. He was a graduate of Choctaw County High School and attended Livingston University, Delta State University, and Vanderbilt University. Clyde served his country honorably in the US Navy during the Korean War as a communications officer in the Underwater Demolition Team (UDT’s). He is survived by his son, Thomas J. “Joey” LeNoir and his wife, Julie, of Vestavia Hills, AL and daughter-in-law, Carol W. LeNoir, of Meridian; seven grandchildren, Jessica Lynn LeNoir, of Meridian, Kennedy Alexandra LeNoir, of Nashville, TN, Dennis Anthony LeNoir, II, of Meridian, and Elizabeth Kate LeNoir, Noah Joseph LeNoir, Mary Natalie LeNoir and Hannah Grace LeNoir, all of Vestavia Hills, AL, and great-grandchild, Makinley Claire May, of Meridian. He was preceded in death by sons, Clyde Olney “Butch” LeNoir, III and Dennis Anthony LeNoir, and his parents. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials be made to American Cancer Society. Pallbearers will be Noah LeNoir, Dennis LeNoir, Jeff Deavours, Ricky Fleming, Bobby Galloway, and Tim Reynolds. Honorary pallbearers are Robert Carlisle, Dennis Glebe, Morris Ford, and Harold Bateman.
Paul Haralson Leonard, III, a retired Navy lieutenant commander, a retired division patent attorney at Ethyl Corp., and president of Central Foods Inc., died Wednesday morning, December 21, 2011, at age 86. He was a resident of Houston, then Duncan, Oklahoma, and finally Broadmoor subdivision in Baton Rouge. He was a veteran of World War II, where he served in underwater demolition, the Korean War and the Armed Forces Security Agency AFSA/NSA. He is survived by a daughter, Leslie Ann Leonard; daughter-in-law, Tuyet Huong T. Bui; son, Scott Paul Leonard; and grandchildren, Thomas Lee Richard and Danh T. Bui. He was preceded in death by his wife of 53 years, Barbara Ann Underwood Leonard; and parents, Dovie Lore Shuler, who was of Gonzales, Texas, and Paul Haralson Leonard Jr., who was of Calvert, Texas. He was a 1948 graduate of Rice University, with a B.A. in accounting and economics and a 1957 graduate of South Texas School of Law, where he earned his juris doctor. He served in the Navy from 1942 to 1967, six years active duty and 20 years Reserve Inactive. He was a 53-year member of the State Bar of Texas and was also a member of the American Patent Law Association. He was a Freemason and president and member of the school district board in Stephens County, Okla., for two years. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Zola Levitt Ministries, P.O. Box 12268, Dallas TX 75225 or to the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association, 1 Billy Graham Parkway, Charlotte, NC 28201.
Clinton Philip McGann, 87, Green Bay, passed away Wednesday, March 19, 2014. He was born October 19, 1926, in Hancock, Michigan to Clinton H. and Eleanor P. (Sullivan) McGann. He proudly served in the U.S. Navy during World War II, as a gunner’s mate and Chief Petty Officer First Class, and during the Korean War, both on the destroyer escort USS Raymond and as a “frogman” in the U.S. Navy’s Submarine Service Underwater Demolition Team (later to become the Navy SEALS). After the wars he earned his Bachelor of Science Degree in Criminal Justice at Michigan State University in order to pursue a career in criminology. On June 3, 1961, he married the love of his life, Frances Nonneman, in Oakland County, MI and promptly moved to Alaska, beginning the next chapter of his life. While in Alaska, they welcomed their daughter, Maureen, into their lives. Several years later, Clinton moved his young family to Terre Haute, IN to continue his education at Indiana State University, becoming the first to graduate from that institution with a Master of Arts in Criminology/Criminal Justice. Later, in 1969, he was invited to establish the Police Science program at NWTC (later to become the Criminal Justice – Law Enforcement program), becoming its first Coordinator/Dean. Clinton retired in 1989 from NWTC. He is survived by a daughter, Maureen McGann-Ludwin, and her husband, Mitchell Ludwin, Palm City, Florida; three grandchildren, Kaitlin, Atlanta, GA, Clinton, Palm City, Florida, and Helena, Palm City, Florida; a sister, Bonnie Natzman, and her husband, Norbert, White Lake, Michigan; his cousin, Clara Sullivan Donia; numerous other cousins, nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Frances; his sister, Margaret “Peggy” Beahan; infant twin brothers and two infant sisters.
Friends may call at Blaney Funeral Home, 1521 Shawano Ave., from 10 to 10:30 a.m. Friday, June 20. A Funeral Service will be at 10:30 a.m. Friday at the funeral home. Burial will be at 2 p.m. (Eastern Time) Saturday, June 21 in Forest Hills Cemetery in Houghton, Michigan with full Military Honors.
Fred McWilliams, affectionately known as “Big Mac,” passed away at Queen of the Valley Medical Center early Friday morning [August 2007]. He was 74 years young, born in Mt. Vernon, New York, in 1932. Fred was a wonderful friend and a husband of almost 50 years. Fred enjoyed working with wood, creating Barbie-sized doll houses and ships made entirely of coffee stirrers, recently receiving Best of Show at the Napa Fair. He was a strong swimmer, a former lifeguard in San Diego and a Navy Veteran serving in part as a member of the Underwater Demolition Team during the Korean War. He worked as a marine electrician teaching at the California Maritime Academy, later retiring from Mare Island Naval Shipyard. He had a wonderful singing voice that only a few knew and enjoyed classical music. He was a jolly man who played Santa at Mervyn’s for many years and even looked a bit like him. Fred was a lifelong bowler at Napa Bowl and served as a Cub Scout leader for Pack 185 for several years. He had a great sense of humor and will be dearly missed. He is survived by his wife Lonnie McWilliams; sisters Mary Alice Parker of Las Vegas and Kathy Albanese of Florida; sons Michael McWilliams and Fred and Lisa McWilliams of Napa; daughters Rosemarie and Ted Howse of San Diego, Noelle and Robert Hollis and Amie and Billy Couch of Napa. He was the proud grandfather of 12 granddaughters: Megan, Caitlin, Molly, Rachel and Rebecca McWilliams; Breezy, Melody and Jacelyn Hollis, Sarah Hanson, Stephanie Goodman and Savanna Newell. He is preceded in death by his son Gary McWilliams and granddaughter Kaylie Hollis. A memorial service will be held Thursday, Aug. 30, at Riesling Hall, Napa Fairgrounds, at 6:30 p.m. for family and friends. Donations may be made in Fred’s name to the Miracle Camp, Kaylie’s Corner, Sacred Heart Hospital, P.O. Box 2700, Pensacola, Florida, 32513 or to Christian Children’s Fund, P.O. Box 26507, Richmond, VA, 23261-6507.
Prof. John C. Manning was a world-renowned literacy expert at the University of Minnesota who worked in elementary classrooms to improve reading instruction in Minneapolis and other inner- city schools.
He was a visiting professor or lecturer at more than 300 colleges and universities and served as a consultant to more than 500 national agencies, state departments of education and school districts, the university said. Manning also cared about the kids in his own New Brighton neighborhood. He talked to them on his daily walks, said neighbor Val Rohrer. "He had a lot of presence," she said. "He was like a walking Webster's dictionary, but was very kind, especially to children. He was always interested in what books they were reading and what they liked about school." Manning, 80, died September 6, 2010, of prostate and bone cancer at his home, said his fiancée and longtime friend Verla Klassen. She was a Minneapolis literacy teacher and coordinated Manning's work when he brought graduate students to elementary schools for hands-on instruction in the 1970s. Manning was a past president of the International Reading Association and was recognized as its outstanding teacher educator in reading in 1989. He also received the agency's lifetime achievement award in April, said Alan Farstrup, a retired leader of the association in Newark, New Jersey Farstrup was one of Manning's graduate students who learned by watching him teach Minneapolis students. "He was the first professor I ran into who taught children as a way of demonstrating what he meant by good reading instruction," Farstrup said. He said Manning would hold graduate classes in a grade-school classroom. "Then we'd troop down the hall for a teaching demonstration with children," Farstrup said. "He put himself on the line when he sat with six children in front of a room of teachers and graduate students. He dealt with whatever came up. Some of the kids were not too easy to handle, but that didn't ever faze him. ... He was a great teacher." A key Manning technique was ensuring that every student responded to material the class was reading. He would have the same material and write answers to the same questions as students to keep them engaged, said Kris Warren Samsel, who worked with him in the Eagan-Rosemount-Apple Valley School District. "If a child got behind, he'd exchange his paper with the student and say, 'You take mine, and we'll go on to number two,'" she said. "He teased the kids. He'd get them to laugh and could establish relationships with them very quickly." Daughter Lisa Manning said her father "thrived on helping people." He also was proud of his underwater demolition work as a U.S. Marine in the Korean War. Besides Lisa, of Fall River, Mass., Manning is survived by children Katharine, of Boston, and Jay, of Centreville, Va.; three grandchildren, and siblings Mary, of Fall River; Wendy King of Falmouth, Massachusetts; Connie Arnoe of Westport, Massachusetts, and James, of Tiverton, Rhode Island. A memorial service will be held at 3:30 p.m. Friday at St. Lawrence Catholic Church & Newman Center, 1203 SE. 5th St., Minneapolis.
Mr. Olive was born on April 21, 1930 and passed away in January 2012. Mr. Olive was a resident of Greensboro, North Carolina at the time of passing. Bruce was a graduate of Mars Hill, Furman University, and George Peabody College in Nashville. He joined the U. S. Navy and served in the Korean War in the Navy's Underwater Demolition Team (Navy Frogmen). Mr. Olive was married to Eloise. A Memorial Service will be held at 3:30 PM Sunday, Jan 29, 2012 at the Forbis & Dick North Elm Street Funeral Chapel. The Family will receive friends at the funeral home one hour prior to the service from 2:30-3:30 PM. Memorial contributions may be made to: Hospice and Palliative Care, 2500 Summit Ave Greensboro, NC 27405, or a charity of the donors choice.
Albert F. Paolini of Easton, Connecticut, died peacefully at home on Tuesday, August 15, 2000. He was the husband of Barbara Paolini. Retired president of Tilcon CT, Inc., Mr. Paolini was involved in the construction industry for over forty years, formerly serving as Senior Vice President of D'Addario Industries. During his career he served as an officer of many professional associations and was highly regarded as a skilled labor negotiator. A graduate of Peekskill Military Academy and Rutgers University, he was a standout athlete throughout his school years. He had a distinguished record as an officer in the United States Navy during the Korean War, serving as a frogman with the elite UDT.
Marshall Peterson Jr. Marshall "Pete" Peterson, Jr., 87, of Smithton, Illinois, born July 1, 1932, in Belleville, Illinois, died July 10, 2019 at Freeburg Care Center. Pete had a full life: in his youth, he had a bicycle paper route, set pins at Rettle Bowling Alley, ushered at the Ritz Theater and cut the greens and fairways at Westhaven Golf Course. At Belleville Township High School, he was a full back on the football team and participated in track. Pete enlisted in the United States Navy in 1951, when he was 19. He was active in the Korean War and the Vietnam War. Boot Camp was at San Diego, California Naval Training Center. His first assignment was to the USS Manatee as a Seaman First Class, assigned to a 40 MM Anti-Aircraft Gun. During the 13 months he served aboard the USS Manatee the ship was stationed off the coast of both North and South Korea in support of US military operations. Always wanting to be Special Forces, Pete applied for underwater demolitions training at Coronado, California in early 1953. Studied the art of jungle warfare, and underwater demolition as a US Navy Frogman. Later to be titled SEALS. Working with mines, booby traps and C3 demolitions, Team 12 helped clear the Wonsan Harbor, Korea in late 1953. In 1954, he worked with the French in covert missions in Vietnam; 1955 his team was sent to the arctic and played a significant roll establishing (DEW), the Early Warning Defense System. In 1956, after proudly serving with the U.S. Navy, Pete settled in Belleville, started working and married Bernell Joy, nee Baltz. Pete worked as a cartographer at Aeronautical Chart & Information Center, Defense Mapping Agency in St. Louis - then went on to Scott Air Force Base, Belleville Ilinois, where he was employed for 38 years as a civil service, graphic illustrator/supervisor. He retired from Scott AFB Air Weather Service, June 1989. His second retirement, in September 1999, was from Donnell Dental Lab where he was employed as a lab technician. When Pete's family was young, he managed the Khoury League team, bought a hog farm in St. Libory Illinois, and raised feeder pigs, while maintaining a very large vegetable garden. He built an addition to their home and an oversized two-car garage - without previous carpentry experience! He enjoyed trapping, fishing, deer and mushroom hunting; he was accomplished in oil painting; Pete enjoyed watching sports and was a huge Cardinal and Blues fan. He and Bernell celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary with the family at Pere Marquette Lodge, February 4, 2016. In Pete's later years he enjoyed playing the slots at the casinos and gambling boats. Pete will be remembered for the love and special times shared with his family and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Marshall Peterson and Arline Peterson-Schmidt, nee Sisson; one grandson, Brandon Peterson; his sister, Florence Jean Owen; sisters-in-law, Beverly Speedie and Norma Peterson; brothers-in-law, Allen Owen and Thomas Speedie; and a nephew, Mark Peterson. Surviving to cherish his memory are his loving wife of 63 years, Bernell Joy Peterson, nee Baltz, of Smithton. They have three sons: Marshall (Lebecca) Peterson of Swansea, Blake (Diana) Peterson of Belleville, and Lance Peterson of Belleville; his five grandchildren, Rachel (Dean) Lugge, Tara (James) Sayres, Ashley Peterson, Lauren (Joel) Bishop and Ryan Peterson; one great-grandchild, Reagan Olivia Lugge; his brother, James Peterson of Fairview Heights; six nieces; Connie (Ryan) Denny, Karen (Ernie) Nevarez, Barbie (Steve) Struck, Becky (Andy) Haines, Sherri Wooten, Kimberly (Kevin) Buskirk; one nephew, Thomas C. Speedie; a dear friend, Jonathan Hyland; and many other relatives and friends. The family would like to thank all of the wonderful family, friends, and neighbors for their kindness and generosity. Memorials are appreciated to the charity of the donor's choice. Services will be held at 11 a.m., Sunday, July 14, 2019 at the funeral home with Chaplain Collingwood officiating. Interment will follow in Valhalla Gardens of Memory, Belleville, Illinois. Burial with military honors will follow the service.
Vernon Hugh Pettus, age 85, passed away March 31, 2016. He was a native of Florence, Alabama, and was retired from Ford Motor Company. Mr. Pettus was the chairman of the Ford UAW Local 255 for the past 28 years and president of the local VA. Mr. Pettus was a Korean War veteran serving as a Navy Seal and in underwater demolition and also part of the 20th Airborne Division. He was a member of the Church of Christ. Visitation will be held at Jackson Heights Church of Christ on Monday, April 4th, 2016, from 11:00 A.M. until 1:00 P.M. The funeral service will follow at 1:00 P.M. with Ellis Coats and Bobby Haynes officiating. A private burial will be held at Greenhill Cemetery with full military honors. Pallbearers will be Leon Pettus, Danny Pettus, Rocky Adkins, Randy Jones, Rodney Pettus, and Kelly Garner. Mr. Pettus is survived by his wife Gail, son Alan Pettus and wife Cheryl of Florence, granddaughter Laya Persall, grandson Ryan Thompson, great-grandsons Brayden Thompson and Winston Persall, brother James Pettus, and sisters Marcell Jones and Millines Garner. He was preceded in death by daughter Tina Pettus, parents John and Georgia Pettus, brothers Britten, Herlon, and Eugene Pettus, and sister Francis Adkins.
John Gerald Phillips, 85, of Hanahan, passed away on Wednesday, December 26, 2018. He was born June 4, 1933 in Hundred, West Virginia to the late Carl and Mary Phillips. He was a retired Naval Officer, having spent more than 25 years in service of his country in the US Navy. He began his career as a Navy SEAL, specializing in underwater demolition, and served in the Korean Conflict, the Vietnam War, and other active Military Operations. He is survived by his wife, Patricia Slossen Phillips, one daughter, Pamela Kim (Richard Zanghetti) Phillips, of Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida, two sisters, Patsy Thornton, of Jacksonville, Florida and Jane (Steve) Hamblin, of Ladson, three step-sons, Ken Slossen, of Summerville, Richard (Barbara) Slossen, of Vernonia, Oregon, and Jeff (Whitney) Slossen, of Eutawville, five grandchildren, Mia Zanghetti, of Arlington, Virginia, Alayna Zanghetti, of Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida and Jeffrey (Chelsee) Slossen, of Moncks Corner, Richard Slossen and Heather Slossen, of Verononia, Oegon, and two great-grandchildren. A private memorial service was held at Carolina Memorial Funeral Home. Memorial Contributions may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project, at support.woundedwarriorsproject.org.
Norman Alfred Preece, 85, of Spring Hill, Florida, died Tuesday, June 4, 2019 at his home. He was born June 23, 1933 in Melrose, Massachusetts and came to this area 29 years ago from Georgia. After graduating high school, Norman joined the Navy and as a Seabee stationed in Japan he was engaged in underwater demolition during the Korean conflict. After leaving the Navy, he joined the Air Force where upon retiring in 1993 he worked for Western Union and General Electric where he received the G.E. Idea Man of 1975 award which he also won in 1970 for submitting the most money-saving ideas and inventions. He later worked for Data General until shortly before it closed. He opened the B&P Cycle shop which catered to the over-40 and disabled and ran it for seven years until his stroke in 1996. Norman was a member of the VFW in Spring Hill. He is survived by his wife of 62 years, Alice Preece of Spring Hill, Florida; sons, Thom Preece of Spring Hill, Florida and Raymond Preece of Brooklyn, Connecticut; daughters, Theresa Maze of Bridgeport, Connecticut, Frances Rollinson of Pomfret, Connecticut and Patricia Watkins of Flowery Branch, Georgia; sister, Joan Goldsmith of Booth Bay Maine; five grandchildren. A Memorial Mass will be celebrated at 11:00am, Wednesday, June 12, 2019 at St. Frances Cabrini Catholic Church.
John Fiske Raynolds, a U.S. Navy frogman and underwater demolition team officer in the Korean War, served as CEO of Outward Bound USA during the 1980s, the organization's most significant period of growth. He died at his home in Vero Beach, Florida on November 11, 2011. He was 82. As a diver in the Navy, Mr. Raynolds served on the first team to jump from helicopters into the ocean, an operation that led to the genesis of the U.S. Navy S.E.A.L.S. Mr. Raynolds graduated from Williams College and continued to a career in car dealerships in California, then returned to government service, spending four years with the U.S. Intelligence Service in Ghana, West Africa. His following careers included investment banking with Butcher & Sherrerd in Philadelphia before becoming President and CEO of the Outward Bound USA, a position he held from 1981 until 1991. During his ten years as CEO, Outward Bound's enrollment increased from 7,000 to over 30,000 students per year. A lifelong mountaineer, Mr. Raynolds was a member of the American Alpine Club and the Explorers Club. The Wall Street Journal was intrigued by his unusual combination of corporate and not-for-profit careers and did a feature article on him, entitled "The Stew Pot Theory of Career Building", and CNN produced a 30-minute special on him in their program "Pinnacle", which aired internationally. John F. Raynolds III was born in Minneapolis, Minnesota on September 25, 1929 to John Fiske Raynolds II and Valeria Blunt Raynolds. He was the 2009 recipient of the Bicentennial Medal from Williams College for distinguished achievement in experiential education. Mr. Raynolds is survived by his wife Eileen Blaker Raynolds; three children from his previous marriage, William S. Raynolds, Virginia Raynolds Stark, and Helen Winton Griffith; two stepchildren, Kelley McCabe Ruff and Linda Weiss; and six grandchildren. Memorials preferred to Outward Bound USA, 100 Mystery PT RD, Garrison, NY 10524 c/o Raynolds Memorial Fund.
J.B. Reed, 87, passed away September 6, 2017. He was born June 12, 1930, in Amarillo, Texas to Glen G. Reed and Viola Williams Reed. J.B. married Mildred Goswick August 19, 1994, in Eastland, Texas. J.B. was a Baptist. J.B. proudly served as a Navy Seal Frogman in the United States Navy during the Korean War and received extensive training in underwater demolition processes. He was a member of the VFW and DAV. He worked for many years as a welding engineer in the construction industry. In his later years, J.B. took up a love of golf, which he and Mildred enjoyed together. He loved spending time outdoors fishing and hunting. J.B. loved his family very much and will be missed by all who knew and loved him. He is survived by his daughters, Debra Frazier and Nona Webb and husband, Ivan; grandsons, James Ralston, Jody Shew, Jon Shew and Jason Frazier; great-granddaughters, Serenity Shew and Avery Ralston; great-grandson, Trenton Shew; several nieces and nephews; and other extended family. J.B. was preceded in death by his wife, Mildred; parents, Glen and Viola Reed; granddaughter, Jenalee Frazier; and sister, Leta Pearl Farley. Graveside funeral services were held Monday, September 11, 2017, at 2:00 p.m. in Gardens of Memory Cemetery, Comanche, with Brother Jackie Auvenshine officiating.
Thomas Patrick Reilly, of West Islip, passed away on Sunday, June 25. He was 85. Thomas was a member of the Underwater Demolition Team who served in the U.S. Navy during the Korean War. He was an avid golfer and fisherman. He was predeceased in life by his daughter, Lisa Reilly as well as his siblings, Joseph Reilly and Pat Harris. Thomas is survived by his wife, Barbara Reilly, his siblings; Hugh Reilly, William Reilly and Mary Slama; as well as his children; Tracy Reilly, Susanne Antolini, Thomas W. (Christine) Reilly and Erin (Bill) Mascaro. In addition, his is survived by his grandchildren Kaity, Sarah, Kyle, Niki, Jack, Colin, Parker, Quinn, Charlotte, Charlie, Will and Teddy as well as his great granddaughter Sadie. Internment will take place at the Holy Cross Cemetery in Brooklyn.
Russell “Rusty” Ray Ritnour, 83, of Creston passed away Friday January 26, 2018 at his home, surrounded by family. A celebration of his life will be held Wednesday, January 31, 2018 at 11:00 AM at Pearson Family Funeral Service & Cremation Center in Creston. Pastor Jodi Rushing will officiate. Visitation with family receiving friends will be Tuesday, January 30, 2018 from 5pm-7pm at the funeral home in Creston. Memorial contributions may be directed to the First United Methodist Church of Creston &/or VFW Post #1797 of Creston. Russell Ray Ritnour, son of Floyd and Delilah (Means) Ritnour, was born November 20, 1934 in Montgomery County Iowa. Russell attended Corning High School until 1953. He then enlisted in the United States Navy and served 24 years, 16 ½ of those years as a Navy Seal. He served on several ships including destroyers, troop transports and helicopter carriers. He served at the end of the Korean War as part of an underwater demolition team. He was stationed at Guantanamo Bay during the Cuban Missile Crisis and he was involved in frogman operations during the Bay of Pigs invasion in Cuba in April 1961. He served 6 tours in the Vietnam War including assignments with Special War Group Boat Support Unit 1 where he commanded torpedo “spook” boats engaging in clandestine operations. Russell was involved in the recovery of the Apollo 14 space capsule while he was aboard the USS New Orleans in February 1971. Russell was wounded several times during his service and lost many dear friends. Russell retired from the United States Navy on November 30, 1976. In 1959, Russell married Georgia Loomis and later divorced. He later married Dorothy Ann Dillinger on April 3, 1975 in Maryville, Missouri. Russell began working for the United States Postal Service in 1979 in Des Moines. Russell and Dorothy relocated to Creston in 1980 where he continued to work for the Postal Service until he retired in 1996. Russell and Dorothy built and moved to Ridgetop Farms in 1991, where Russell farmed until 2007. Russell was an avid motorcycle rider. He and Dorothy enjoyed riding their motorcycle across the United States on many different trips. They were active members of the Christian Motorcycle Association for many years. Russell was a member of the First United Methodist Church of Creston, the VFW, the American Legion, the Fleet Reserve Association, the Crest City Lodge 522 AF&AM, and the DAV. Russell is survived by his wife of 42 years, Dorothy Ritnour of Creston; sons: Randall Ritnour and significant other Vanessa Emlich, Lendall (Marlene) Ritnour, both of Lincoln NE; step-daughters: Christine O’Clair of Monticello and Angela (Ron) White of Creston; step-son, Greg Brokaw and significant other Sherry Parker of Prescott; sister, Janice Shepherd of Lenox; brother, Ron Ritnour of Ulm MT; grandchildren: Christall, Spencer and Shelbie Ritnour, Stacie Chaney, Alex, Jason and Justin Brokaw, Amanda (Kyle) Brundage, Christina White and significant other Josh Englund; great-grandchildren: Ashlyn Chaney, Kinnick Host, Keegan Brundage, Olivia Brundage, Addison Fannon, and Elizabeth Englund. Russell was preceded in death by his parents, Floyd and Delilah Ritnour; brother-in-law, Dale Shepherd and sister-in-law, Kathy Jenkins.
Wayne Larue Rodgers, age 88, passed away on July 18, 2019, at his home in Destin, Florida. Born December 19, 1930, in Montgomery, Alabama, he was the son of the late Leonard Rogers and Virginia Ingram. He is preceded in death by his wife of 41 years, Anna Azzurro Rodgers; Brother, Donald Rogers; sister, Charlotte Bagley; sister, Brenda Carpenter; and grandson, Gary Hamilton. Mr. Wayne grew up tending fields on a peanut farm in Alabama. At the age of 16, he joined the United States Navy Underwater Demolition Team. He went on to serve in both the Korean and Vietnam Wars, along with multiple tours around the world. Mr. Wayne retired from the United States Navy in 1966, after serving 20 years. On September 27, 1950, Wayne Rodgers and Anna Azzurro were wed together. The two of them lived in four states and raised three children, received four grandchildren, three great grandchildren, and one great-great granddaughter. Mr. Wayne is survived by his sister, Deborah Tailleur of Miles City, Montana; brother in law, Horace Carpenter of Shelbyville, Tennessee; daughter, Sue (Mike) Latragna of Lynchburg, Virginia; son, Gene of Enterprise, Alabama; son, Christopher Hill (Audrey) of Destin, Florida; grandchildren, Sherree Tolbert (Chris) of Defuniak Springs, Florida; Amanda Bittinger (Reuben) of Kingsport, Tennessee; Vanessa Lesnett (Michael) of Clearmont, Florida; Great Grandchildren, Camellia Prescott of Valparaiso, Florida; Charlotte Lesnett of Clearmont, Florida; and great-great granddaughter, Harper Hill of Destin, Florida. Join us as we celebrate the life of Mr. Wayne, a good and faithful servant. A visitation will be held on Tuesday, July 23, 2019 at 2:00 P.M. at Emerald Coast Funeral Home, 161 Racetrack Road NW, Ft. Walton Beach, Florida 32547 followed by a funeral service at 3:00 P.M. Interment will take place at Beal Memorial Cemetery.
Ian Keith Ross, 78, passed away May 10, 2015, from complications after a stroke April 25. He was born and raised in Warsaw. He was married to Brenda Leedy Ross, his wife of 30 years, who survives. He graduated from Warsaw High School in 1954. After high school, he went into the U.S. Navy-Underwater Demolition Team, and was a Korean War veteran. He was a graduate of AIT in Chicago. He returned to Warsaw in 1967 with Sun Metal. He retired from Zimmer in 1994. He moved to North Webster and lived on the lake where he loved being on the water. He was a loyal attendee of the United Methodist Church, North Webster, and was an active member of the Class of 1954 alumni board. He was loved by all who met him. He loved to laugh and talk to friends as well as strangers. His hobbies included fly fishing and golf. He loved his grandkids and looking through the family album books he got every Christmas from Robin. He will be missed terribly by his family and friends. He also is survived by his five daughters: Debra Ross Marvel, Fort Myers, Fla.; Kim Ross (and Dan Turner), Atlanta, Ga.; Robin Ross (and Wit Truitt), Marietta, Ga.; Julie Ross Heckaman (and Casey Shepherd), Claypool; Shannon Ross (and Paul Bartels), North Webster; 12 grandchildren; and one great-grandson.
Anthony "Tony" Ruotolo passed away peacefully on April 12, 2019. He was born in Newark, New Jersey, on November 13, 1929. He was preceded in death by his parents, John Ruotolo and Michelina "Lena" Rosetti; as well as his loving wife, Rose Ruotolo. He is survived by his four children, Denise Buckingham (John), Wayne Ruotolo (Diane), Lisa Knock (Jeff), Elaine McKenney (David); and seven grandchildren, Alex (Logan), Tyler, Jordan, Trevor, Maddi, Marisa and Sarah. He was a veteran of the U.S. Navy, serving in the Korean War in the underwater demolition division and as a medical corpsman. The family will receive friends from 6 to 8 p.m. Friday, at the West Chapel of Bennett Funeral Home, 11020 W. Broad Street, where a Christian service will be held on Saturday, at 1:30 p.m. Interment will follow in the Greenwood Memorial Gardens. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial contributions made to St. Mary's Catholic Church, 9505 Gayton Road, Henrico 23229.
William M. Sharpe, age 85, of Billings, Montana and formerly Joliet, Illinois, passed away Thursday, March 14, 2019. He was born December 13, 1933 to the late Gertrude (Martin) and Virgil Sharpe in Pana, Illinois, where he was raised and educated. Bill was a United States Navy veteran who served during the Korean War as a special forces Underwater Demolition Team member, a role that eventually evolved into the Navy SEALs. After being honorably discharged he and his late wife Doris (November 6, 2018) moved to Joliet where they raised their family. They were married for 61 years. Surviving are his sons, Greg and Eric; daughter-in-law, Stephanie; grandson, Weston and daughter-in-law, Kelly. In addition to Doris, he is also preceded in death by his eldest son, Jeff; parents and one sister, Nancy McCracken. Bill retired as a Supervisor from Caterpillar Tractor Inc. after over 35 years of dedicated service. He enjoyed traveling with his wife and spending time with his family. He volunteered tirelessly through the years and was a mentor to many who led by example. He could be described as firm yet fair, always keeping others best interests as a priority. Bill’s greatest joy was living his final years in Montana with Doris, his sons, daughter-in-law, Stephanie and grandson Weston. As it was Bill’s request cremation rites will be accorded and services will be held privately. In lieu of flowers, memorials in his name can be made to Stockman Bank of Billings, Montana or sent to P.O. Box 51311 Billings, MT 59105 and will be donated to the charity of Bill’s wishes.
In 1937, Richard and his family traveled to France for language study, and then to French Equatorial Africa (now the Central African Republic) to serve as missionaries. In 1942, when Richard was thirteen years old, the ship carrying his family home to America for furlough was torpedoed and sunk by a German submarine. Richard's parents and one sister, Georgia, died as a result of the sinking; and Richard, another sister Donna, and seventeen others drifted for twenty days on a life raft in the Caribbean Sea until their rescue.
After living in various foster homes in several states, Richard moved to Burlington, Iowa in 1945, and was hired at the Chicago, Burlington & Quincy railroad shops in West Burlington as an electrician apprentice. He was employed at the CB&Q and the Burlington Northern Railroad for forty-four years, retiring as an electrician in 1989.
Richard joined the U.S. Navy in 1946 and was stationed at Pearl Harbor in Hawaii, and on Midway Island. For the next four years, he served on the destroyers USS Blue and USS Klondike, studied and taught judo, and during his time on Midway also served as a firefighter. Originally given his discharge in 1950, several months later Richard was recalled as a reservist to serve in the Korean War. In that tour of duty, he served aboard the minesweeper USS Symbol, and was a member of one of the Navy's early underwater demolition teams that in later years would become the Navy Seals. At the end of his service in Korea in 1952 he returned to Burlington, his family and his job with the railroad; and in 1954 he received his final discharge from the U.S. Naval Reserve.
Several years later Richard began studies through Moody Bible Institute in Chicago, Illinois, to become an ordained minister. Receiving his ordination in 1962, he served several area churches as an interim pastor, and for four years he ministered as a chaplain the prison in Mt. Pleasant. Richard also served as a chaplain in several area nursing homes, led many home Bible study classes, and preached in numerous area churches and schools, sharing the story of his experiences and of God's mercy and grace in his life. Richard was a member of Harmony Bible Church and also attended Burlington Baptist Church, was a member of the Burlington Civil War Roundtable, and chaplain of the Sons of Confederate Veterans Camp #1759. He also was a member and chaplain of the Railroad Retirees Club.
Richard enjoyed following the St. Louis Cardinals baseball team, visiting with friends at the Hungry Bear restaurant and in the GRMC cafeteria and spending time with his grandchildren. After retiring, Richard and Evelyn enjoyed traveling to North Carolina and spending time at the coast.
Survivors include his wife of 63 years, Evelyn Shaw of Burlington; his children, David (Jan) Shaw of Coralville, Iowa, Nancy (Mark) Spell of Timberlake, North Carolina and Ruth (Bryan) Hobbs of Burlington; his grandchildren, Andrew (Hilary) Wilkinson, Alicia Houston, Nathaniel Houston, Kara Houston, Jared Shaw and Evan Shaw; six great-grandchildren, Paige, Tate, DaVeion, LaRiyah, Kaydnce and Max; his sister, Donna (Bill) Taylor of Conway Arkansas and nieces and nephews.
The family will receive friends from 4 until 7 p.m. Sunday, April 19th, at Lunning Chapel.
The funeral service for Mr. Shaw will be 10:30 a.m. Monday, April 20th, at Lunning Chapel with Pastors Kendall Adams and Danny Dingus officiating. Interment will be in Aspen Grove Cemetery. The Burlington Area Veterans Honor Guard will conduct military rites.
Born December 31, 1931, in Richmond, Virginia, between 1950 and 1992, Sorg spent a combined 26 years with the Navy. He was discharged in 1953, studied at the University of Virginia and University of Miami in the 1950s — during which he lived aboard his sailboat, Rainbows End, and worked part-time as a dock master at Coconut Grove Sailing Club. He earned an advanced banking degree at Northwestern University in Evanston, a Chicago suburb. At 39, he re-enlisted with the Navy SEALs and as a reservist, served in Vietnam, and founded the Navy SEAL Museum in Fort Pierce. When Sorg finally retired in 1992, he had completed 103 parachute jumps — the last one at age 62, the oldest-serving SEAL in its history, said Mark Kamilar, a former commodore at Coral Reef Yacht Club and board member at the U.S. Sailing Center. Sorg, who raced a sailboat named Special Warfare from the waters off Coral Reef Yacht Club in Coconut Grove, learned scuba diving while undergoing basic underwater demolition training. He had enlisted in the Navy at the start of the Korean War in 1950. As part of his training, he had to swim from Vieques, an island that’s part of Puerto Rico, to Roosevelt Roads, a former U.S. Naval base on the east coast of Puerto Rico — a distance of six miles. It took him more than eight hours to swim in the heavy current. Sorg founded a stockholder-owned savings-and-loan in Virginia, ran a bank marketing company in Virginia, and after settling in Miami in the early 1970s, he was regional vice president of Miami’s former Southeast Bank. He was president of the Coconut Grove Chamber of Commerce, a founding member of Miami’s International Trade Board, vice president of the Goombay Festival and Vizcayans Association, and a Mercy Hospital Foundation founder member. Sorg’s survivors include his children Jacquelyn Sorg Barchanowicz, Joseph Braxton Sorg, Ginger Sorg Kocjancic, and William Stuart Sorg III and six grandchildren. Funeral services will be at 11 a.m. June 26 at South Florida National Cemetery, 6501 S. State Rd. 7, Lake Worth. Donations in Sorg’s name can be made to the Navy Seal Museum in Fort Pierce.
Alfred (Al) (Mack) Spinks, 89, Lt Commander U.S. Navy (Retired) of the Villages, Florida, passed away on January 7, 2018 at the Ocala Health and Rehabilitation Center, Ocala Florida. Born on November 11, 1928 in Fort Mill, SC, Al never let opportunity pass him by and accomplished so much during his life. He began his Navy career at the young age of 14. He was highly decorated (Bronze Star twice with V device for Valor) and served in three wars: World War II, Korea and Vietnam. Among his highlights, he was in the first graduating class of the Explosive Ordinance Disposal (EOD) unit in 1947. He served with Navy EOD, Underwater Demolition Teams and Seal Operations. Al was a proud member of the VUMS (Veterans of Underage Military Service).
After his retirement from the Navy, he formed his own company, SAS Marine Services. One of his highlight achievements was directing the search and investigation of the Challenger Shuttle accident, 1986.
Al was a member of the Navy Explosive Ordinance Disposal Association, the Navy UDT-Seal Museum, The American Legion Post 347, and the Military Officers Association of America. Al was a lifetime member of the Disabled American Veterans, Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 10126 and the American Veterans. Al was also a member of the Villages Recreational Vehicle Club.
He is survived by his loving wife, Joann (Jo); his children: son, Rick (Cindy) Spinks; daughter, Debi (David) Broome; his brother, Ray (Gary) Spinks; step daughter, Laura (Rory) Riley; step sons: Gary (Irene) Hendershot, Ken (Cheryl) Trousdale and Joe (Darcy) Trousdale. Al is survived by his grandchildren: Amanda (John) Porzio, Madaline Spinks, Heather Chenkus, Nikki Chenkus, Lindsay (Joseph) Collins and Casey (Erica) Broome. Al also shared grandchildren with his wife Jo: Matthew, Amy, Joey, Vincent and Mikey Trousdale, Sarah Dombroski and Jessica and Eric Riley. Al also had many great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, Harvey N. and Lula (Watford) Spinks; brother, Tommy Spinks; sisters: Helen (Monk) Benfield and Hallie (Junior) Funderburk.
A Celebration of Life Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, February 3, 2108 at 11:00AM at the Garden Worship Center, 12740 SE County Highway 484, Belleview, FL 34420, 352-245-0809. Private services for Al will follow at a later date at the Florida National Cemetery in Bushnell, FL and at the UDT- Seal Museum in Fort Pierce, Florida.
Ray “Kenny” Sullivan 82, Bidwell, Ohio passed away Tuesday May 7, 2019 at his residence. He was a Korean War Navy Veteran where he had served on an Underwater Demolition Team and was a proud member of the NRA. He retired from Holzer Medical Center following twenty-five years where he was a carpenter and was the former owner/operator of the K.S. Construction Company of Point Pleasant, West Virginia. Kenny was born December 7, 1936 in Gilmer County, West Virginia, son of the late Ray Sherman Sullivan and Zella James Sullivan. He is survived by his wife Kathy Mulhern Sullivan and three sons and two daughters: Morgan (Michelle) Sullivan, Fowlerville, Michigan; Aaron Sullivan, Clarksville, Tennessee; Brad (Loren) Aberts, Thurman, Ohio; Korie (Chuck) Burns, Thurman, Ohio and Karen Sullivan, Florida. Kenny is also survived by six grandchildren: Grady and Greer Burns, Briley, Beckett, Brandel and Bentley Sullivan. He was preceded in death by a son, Kenneth Sullivan; brothers, Lucky, Bob and Alva Sullivan; and sisters, Maysel Queen and Jean Hought. Friends and family may call at the McCoy-Moore Funeral Home, Wetherholt Chapel, Gallipolis, Ohio on Friday 4:00–6:00 PM. Funeral Services will follow on Friday at 6:00 PM with Rev. Heath Jenkins officiating. The American Flag will be presented by the Gallia County Veterans Services. In lieu of flowers Memorial Gifts may be sent to Holzer Hospice, 100 Jackson Pike, Gallipolis, Ohio 45631.
Calvin Lee Swats, 91, widower of Louise R. Swats, of Staunton, went to be with the Lord and his wife, Louise Swats of 68 years, on Saturday, November 18, 2017 at Legacy at North Augusta. Mr. Swats was born on March 21, 1926 in Hinton, West Virginia to the late James A. and Iona (Stover) Swats of Swoope. He attended Beverley Manor High School. He was a veteran of the US Navy, serving in World War II and the Korean War with the Underwater Demolition Team 18 Navy Frogmen and received the Bronze Star and Purple Heart. Calvin retired from Goodyear 30 plus years as a manager before retiring to Hague, VA. He enjoyed the river, gardening and flowers. He volunteered with Staunton Augusta Rescue, then later with Forest View Rescue. He loved telling stories of his military years, singing hymns and reading his Bible daily. Mr. Swats is survived by two sons, Donald L. Swats and Donna of Murrells Inlet, South Carolina, Gary W. Swats and wife Helen of Churchville; grandchildren, Jason N. Swats and wife, Casey of Churchville, M. Casey Swats of Swoope, Martha Swats-Devitch and Sean of New Hampshire and Maggie Merand and Frankie of Richmond; great-grandchildren, Kaylee Swats, Chelsea Merand, Eliza and Stella Swats; step grandsons, Gavyn and Liam Collier; nieces and nephews, close niece, Jane Harris and a sister-in-law, Dorothy Farrish. In addition to his wife and parents, he is preceded in death by five brothers, James, Rudolph, Harry, Charles and Raymond and several nieces and nephews. A graveside service will be conducted at 11:00 am on Friday, November 24, 2017 at Augusta Memorial Park in Fishersville by Rev. Bob Sharp with a reception following at Marquis Memorial United Methodist Church Social Hall, 1614 West Beverley Street, Staunton, Virginia. Graveside rites will be conducted by Augusta-Staunton VFW Post 2216.
Jack B. Tomlinson, 87, of Lititz, passed away, surrounded by his loving family, on Friday, December 2, 2016, at the Heart of Lancaster Regional Medical Center, while listening to the song, “You Can Let Go Now, Daddy.” Born in Lancaster, Jack was the son of the late George and Ruth (Bauer) Tomlinson. On September 8, 1952, Jack married the love of his life, Patricia A. (Faltine) Tomlinson, with whom he recently celebrated 65 years of marriage. After graduating high school, Jack enlisted in the U.S. Navy and proudly served as a Frogman, predecessor of the Navy Seals, during the Korean War, from 1950 to 1954. As a Frogman, Jack designed the “Freddy the Frog” emblem for the U.S. Navy, proudly displayed at the Navy Seal Museum, in Fort Pierce, Fla. He was mentioned in three best-selling novels for his work in the Underwater Demolition Team (UDT). Following his honorable discharge, Jack went on to work for Armstrong World Industries as a general production supervisor where he retired after 45 years of service. During his career with Armstrong he earned his associate degree in business at Franklin & Marshall College. Family and faith were both important to Jack, who faithfully attended Catholic services with his wife and family for many years. He was very artistic and enjoyed painting and woodworking. Jack also enjoyed playing cards with family and friends. In addition to his wife, Jack leaves behind his children: Jack P. Tomlinson, husband of Jana, of Manheim; Joy Dull, wife of Michael, of Manheim; and Keith Tomlinson, of Lititz; seven grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; a brother: Norman Tomlinson, husband of Barbara, of Lancaster; and many nieces and nephews. Jack was preceded in death by his son: Scott Tomlinson; and a brother and two sisters. A celebration of Jack’s life will be held at 11 a.m., on Thursday, Dec. 8, at Charles F. Snyder Jr. Funeral Home & Crematory, 3110 Lititz Pike, Lititz. Family and friends will be received at the funeral home one hour prior to the service from 10 to 11 a.m. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Jack’s name to Pennsylvania Wounded Warriors, Inc., 1117 Country Club Road, Camp Hill, PA 17011.
Eugene Tinnin was born on April 11, 1929, in Houston, Texas. He enlisted in the U.S. Navy on April 11, 1946, and completed basic training at NTC San Diego, California, in July 1946. His first assignment was as a mess cook at Reception Station Treasure Island, California, from July to August 1946, followed by service as a guard at Fleet Activity Yokosuka, Japan, from September 1946 to January 1947. He served as a fire control striker aboard the heavy cruiser USS Chicago (CA-136) from January to May 1947, and then as a deck hand aboard the aircraft carrier USS Ticonderoga (CV-14) from May 1947 until he left active duty on February 11, 1948. Petty Officer Tinnin reenlisted in the Navy on April 5, 1949, and then served as an electronics technician aboard the heavy cruiser USS Macon (CA-132) from April 1949 to May 1950. He served as as an electronics technician aboard the battleship USS Missouri (BB-63) from June 1950 to July 1952, and during this time he deployed aboard her to Korea, where the ship and crew participated in shore bombardments during the Korean War from August 1950 to March 1951. Petty Officer Tinnin attended Underwater Demolition Team training with Class 009 (East Coast) at NAB Little Creek, Virginia, from July to October 1952, and then served with UDT-4 at NAB Little Creek from October 1952 until he left active duty on April 9, 1954. He again reenlisted in the Navy on December 7, 1955, and served as an electronics technician aboard the destroyer escort radar picket ship USS Vandivier (DER-540) from December 1955 to December 1956. Petty Officer Tinnin attended Underwater Demolition Team training a second time with Class 017 at NAB Little Creek from January to April 1957, followed by service with UDT-21 at NAB Little Creek from April 1957 to October 1963. During this time he deployed aboard the dock landing ship USS Ashland (LSD-1) from September 1962 to March 1963. His next assignment was with SEAL Team TWO at NAB Little Creek from October 1963 to September 1966, followed by Officer Candidate School for Warrant Officer training at Naval Base Newport, Rhode Island, from September 1966 until he was appointed a Warrant Officer in the U.S. Navy on November 4, 1966. Warrant Officer Tinnin served with SEAL Team ONE at NAB Coronado, California, from November 1966 August 1968, and during this time he deployed with his Team to South Vietnam from February to June 1967, and from June 1968 until he was killed in action on August 20, 1968. Per his wishes, Warrant Officer Tinnin was buried at sea off the coast of Vietnam.
Jack Clifford Watson, 79, passed away in Tempe, Arizona. He was born December 30, 1931 in Phoenix, Arizona. Jack Watson served in the United States Navy Underwater Demolition Team, were he served on the USS Black (DD 666) in Korea from 1949 to 1953. He was honorably discharged March 19, 1953. Jack then started his career with Safeway Foods as a semi-truck driver. After being with the company for 40 yrs, he retired. Jack Watson then met and married the love of his life Jean Watson on July 14, 1961. They lovingly raised four children; Jeff, Julie, Jill, and Jackie. Jack and Jean Watson spent the next fifty years sharing their lives together. Jack Watson was fond of all outdoor activities including hunting, fishing, football, and sharing a beer and memories with close friends and family. Jack was preceded in death by his mother, father, many siblings, and his only son Jeff Watson. He is survived by his loving and devoted wife Jean Watson, daughter Jill Watson and her daughters; Heather Clark, Monique Bundy, Adrienne Bundy, and one great-grandchild Caleb Watson (Son of Heather Clark), daughter Jackie Watson-Veal (Travis) and their children; Tucker Watson-Veal, Jacelyn Watson-Veal, and daughter Julie (McBride) Watson (Barry). Jack Watson will be missed by his wife of fifty yrs, his children, grandchildren, great-grandchild, our loving family members Joe and Debbie Johnson, John and Bridget Johnson, Mike and Jeanette Bayne, Jake Johnson, and all of their children. A Celebration of Life will be held 2:00 PM, Friday, October 21, 2011 a National Cemetery of Arizona 23029 N. Cave Creek Rd. Phoenix, Arizona 85024.
Retired Naval Special Warfare Captain Wendell E. "Wendy" Webber, United States Navy, died while under Hospice care near his home in Jacksonville, Florida, on December 16, 2002.
After a distinguished career in Naval Special Warfare, he later retired from a post-Navy career with Seaward Marine Services. As a naval officer, "Wendy" Webber can easily be placed among the ranks as one of the premier leaders of the naval special warfare community. He served in combat with Underwater Demolition Teams in Korea, and saw action again 15 years later as a SEAL Team officer in Vietnam. He commanded at every level of responsibility in the Navy, including command of Naval Special Warfare Group, Atlantic at Naval Air Base, Little Creek, Norfolk, Virginia. He attended Navy Explosive Ordnance School in 1958 and served duty with EOD Unit ONE as Officer in Charge. He detached EOD duty and reported aboard the USS Monticello (LSD-35) as Operations Officer. After 19 months at sea, he returned in January 1962 to command UDT-11.
During the ensuing period, the Navy formally established Naval Operations Support Group staffs in the Atlantic and Pacific. In November 1963, he became the Chief Staff Officer and Deputy Commander of Naval Operations Support Group, Pacific. In August 1966, he deployed to Southeast Asia as Commander, Navy Research and Development Unit, Vietnam. During this period, he participated in a number of classified combat operations, and was awarded the Bronze Star with Combat "V" among several other awards.
His next assignment was Assault Force/Special Warfare Officer assigned to Commander in Chief, U.S. Pacific Fleet. In October 1969, he assumed duty as Commander, Naval Special Warfare Group, Atlantic, which included all Atlantic Fleet UDTs and SEAL Team, Boat Support Units, and Beach Jumper Units. From here he was transferred to the Navy staff in the Pentagon, where he spent his final two years in the Navy tirelessly developing the policy, doctrine, and operational requirements that would guide NSW for many years. For "outstanding initiative, judgment, and professionalism" while assigned to the Chief of Naval Operations staff, he was awarded the Legion of Merit. He retired from the Navy in June 1973.
He subsequently became President and CEO of a Seaward Marine Services, a major diving and salvage corporation conducting operations on an international scale. "Wendy" Webber was a lifetime member of UDT-SEAL Association and in June 1998 was awarded the Association's first "Lifetime Achievement Award." In October 1999 he was awarded the U.S. Special Operations Command Medal, which recognized his significant pioneering contributions as the modern-day architect of Naval Special Warfare. His wife Jan; daughter Leslie of Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, sister, Janice Neumann of Shrewsbury, Massachusetts; two grandchildren, and three nephews and nieces survive him.
A funeral service will be held at Arlington National Cemetery on January 21, 2003 at 1:00 p.m.
John E. Wiborg, of New Boston, died at 7:23 a.m. Sunday, November 25, 2007, in the Iowa City Veterans Administration Hospital in Iowa City, Iowa. Graveside services will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday in Glenwood Cemetery, Shelbyville, with Rev. Dan Eloe officiating. Visitation will be from 1 p.m. until service time at the Lockart-Green Funeral Home, Shelbyville. He was born March 24, 1926, in Rock Island, the son of Anton and Zelma Holland Wiborg. He married Barbara J. Cordray October 18, 1947, in Rock Island and she preceded him in death December 13, 1991. He was raised in Henderson, Kentucky. He served in the U.S. Navy, doing two tours of duty in World War II and one tour in the Korean War. He was part of the Underwater Demolition Team 6 Unit, forerunner of the Navy Seals. He was a member of the Edgewood Baptist Church, Rock Island. He was formerly employed as a machinist at International Harvester and J.I. Case & Co. and as a sheet metal worker for Oscar Meyer. John loved his family, liked to fish and sail and loved his country. He will be sadly missed by his family and friends. Surviving are daughter, Leann Frieden and husband James of Blue Mound; son, John Wiborg and wife Mindy of Des Moines, Iowa; brother, Charles E. Wiborg and wife Jean of East Moline; 5 grandchildren; 1 great-grandchild; one step great-grandchild and one nephew, Richard Wiborg. He was preceded in death by his parents, wife and brother, Lawrence Wiborg.
Philip Nolan Williamson, 75, of Coupeville, died May 4, 2003, at his residence of lung cancer. He was born August 15, 1927, in Tacoma to Thurman and Madeline Katzenberger Williamson. Following his mother’s death when he was 1 year old, his father moved him and his sister, Virginia, to Yakima. He was raised by his father and stepmother in Yakima, where he got his first job as a newsboy at age 10.
In 1942, Mr. Williamson, then 15, lied about his age and joined the Navy. He served in one of the first underwater demolition teams that cleared a number of beachheads in the South Pacific. This was a time when SCUBA had not been invented, and the UDT teams wore tennis shoes instead of fins. He also served with underwater demolition teams during the Korean War. He also served on a number of surface vessels and two diesel fleet submarines, ending his career as an ETC (E-7) on the Polaris-class nuclear submarine USS Thomas Edison. He met and married his wife, Rowena Leach, while serving on the Edison in Groton, Connecticut. Mr. Williamson received a degree in engineering at Healds College in San Francisco and at graduation was hired by Varian Associates. He was an international liaison officer and export manager, living in San Jose. He retired in 1991. During the years he lived in San Jose, he was active in civic and environmental groups and developed a love of bridge that lasted the rest of his life. At the time of his death, he was a member of the Oak Harbor Duplicate Bridge Club and was a Regional Master. After moving to Coupeville in December of 1990, Mr. Williamson became involved in various civic volunteer groups and was serving his second term as town councilman at the time of his death. He was a member of the Coupeville Lions Club and Veterans of Foreign Wars. He enjoyed making furniture, and the Williamson home has bookcases and a Shaker dresser and bench he built. He began work on his genealogy, which led to the discovery of his long-lost sister and her family. Phil joined the Scottish American Military Society, where one of his great thrills was carrying the American flag through massed pipe bands, dressed in his clan Gunn kilt. Mr. Williamson will be remembered by his many friends and relations for his wicked sense of humor and of the ridiculous, his willingness to speak out for what he believed in, his sense of patriotism, his love of Western movies and “all that Scottish stuff.” He liked music, especially baroque, Scottish and bluegrass. He delighted in engaging in verbal duels and skewering overinflated egos. He leaves behind Rowena, his wife of 42 years; sons Philip II of Coupeville and Andrew of Seattle; and many loving friends and relatives. Memorials may be made to the Town of Coupeville Memorial Fund or Friends of Home Health and Hospice in care of Whidbey General Hospital. A memorial celebration will be held in June. Cremation was held. Burial at sea will follow under the auspices of the Navy.