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KEATING, Leo Peter, Resigned from USN 1964 Upon graduation I was designated an intelligence specialist because of poor eyesight and, along with seven other classmates attended the Intelligence School in D.C. From there I was sent to the CNO Chart Room which was Arleigh Burke's current intelligence briefing room on the E ring of the Pentagon. From that lofty position I observed the Suez crisis. From D.C. I was ordered to ComPhibGru One homeported in San Diego. Unfortunately this was to be my only tour of sea duty, but fortunately in 1959 while in San Diego I married Eve Latham, a Navy LT at Miramar NAS. Next I went to Hawaii for a tour of duty with the "queer chasers" of ONI, now called the Naval Investigative 'Service. Thence back to D.C. with the newly formed Defense Intelligence Agency during the Cuban missile crisis. Finally I was ordered to Great Lakes, IL where I had entered the Navy in 1951 and where I departed in 1964. Thirteen years of service and I never heard a shot fired in anger. While stationed in D.C. I had attended night law school at Georgetown University. After my resignation in 1964 I was admitted to the bar in IL in 1965. From 1965-1967 1 was an Asst. Attorney General for the State of Illinois. From 1967 to present I have engaged in the general practice of law in Waukegan, IL. I have kept track of the Navy by handling some court martials over the years and playing golf at the Great Lakes course. I still swim to survive, but I had to give up booze and cigarettes too. Amazingly, my one and only bride resides with me in Gurnee, a small village between Milwaukee and Chicago. Thirty Years Later |
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Col Albert C. Winters, Jr., USAF (Ret) died peacefully at his home in Goodlettsville, TN on April 17, 1995, following a third stroke in November 1989, which lead to his hospitalization and, ultimately, to confinement at home to the end. He was buried with full military honors at Arlington National Cemetery on April 21, 1995, with many Classmates in attendance. Al was a proud graduate of "Canoe U" and would have been very touched by the rememberance. Al entered the Naval Academy from Williamsport, PA after receiving a degree in Economics from Duke University. Upon graduation he accepted a commission as 2nd Lieutenant in the Air Force. The day after graduation, he and Mary-Marie were married in the Naval Academy Chapel and began their journey together through 23 « years of his military career and 40 years of marriage and companionship. His military field of expertise was research and development procurement and he served 3 tours of duty at Wright-Patterson AFB, Ohio with Aeronautical Systems Division. Among the projects he took an active part in, were the research and development of the SR-71 and the F-15. His other tours included: 3 y ears as Base Procurement Officer at Dreux AFB and Evreux AFG. France; ROTC Instructor at Virginia Tech; Asst. Chief of Procurement at Tan Son Nhut AFB, Saigon, Vietnam; student at The Air University (acquiring a master's degree in Business Administration); a tour with Headquarters, Systems Command at Andrews AFB, and a third tour at Wright-Patterson as Director of Procurement, F-15 Special Projects Office. After a second stroke in 1978, Al was medically retired as Colonel with 100% permanent disability. Upon retirement, Al and Mary-Marie began civilian life in a lakefront home outside Estill Springs, TN with his beloved Brittanies. He became a ham radio operator and an active member of MARS. Following his third stroke and a six month stay in Nashville hospitals, a move closer to proper medical facilities necessitated their move to a new home in Goodlettsville, TN. Although his infirmities required that he remained homebound, he remained an active participant in his therapies and family affairs a much beloved husband, father and grandfather. He leaves his wife, Mary-Marie; two sons, Albert C., III and Paul Martyn; and two grandsons, Michael and Thomas. Last Call, Shipmate July-August 1995 |
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Joseph David Mackenzie CDR Joseph David Mackenzie, USN (Ret), age 62, of Monterey, CA, died of Lou Gehrig's disease on April 22, 1995 at the Hospice House in Monterey. Born Jan. 19, 1933 in Passaic, NJ, he lived in Monterey for 23 years. Dave was a 1955 graduate of the United States Naval Academy and a 1960 graduate of the Naval Postgraduate School where he earned his master's degree in meteorology. He played varsity football while at the Naval Academy. He served 26 years in the Navy, until he retired as a Commander in 1981. During tours of active duty, he served in San Diego, CA, Norfolk, VA and Hawaii. He taught at the Naval Academy and at the Naval Postgraduate School. Upon his retirement, he worked as a meteorologist for the Environmental Prediction Research Facility and Fleet Numerical Oceanography Center in Monterey. Dave was honorary president of the Naval postgraduate School Men's Golf Club and served for 16 years as a marshal for the AT&% Pro/Am. He was a member of the San Carlos Cathedral in Monterey and was active in coaching youth football for four years in Hawaii and one year at Carmel High School. He was an avid fly fisherman and enjoyed bowling and playing golf. He is survived by his wife, Dorothy; two sons, Steven and James; two daughters, Sharon and Maureen; a sister Carole; his mother Caroline, and three grandchildren. Last Call, Shipmate, July-August 1995 |
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STEMBEL, David Maynard, Jr.
After graduation from the United States Naval Academy in 1955 he attended MIT, earning a Master of Science in Naval Architecture and Marine Engineering and a Naval Engineer's degree. He was a member of Tau Beta Pi and Sigma Xi honorary engineering societies. Dave was a plank owner in the USS Forrestal (CVA 59) and served as engineer office aboard the USS Dewey (DLG 14), on Staff Service Force Sixth Fleet in Naples, Italy, and as engineer officer aboard the USS America (CVA 66) where he and his crew earned her the Big Red E with two hash marks. After nine years of sea duty in the first fifteen years of our marriage this ED (!) went on to serve in various capacities at NAVSEA including Combatant Ship Logistic Manager for all cruisers, destroyers and frigates. Before his retirement in 1985 he was for five years the Project Manager for the Oliver Hazard Perry Class guided Missile Frigates. He delivered 40 ships to the United States Navy and four to the Royal Australian Navy. This was the largest peacetime surface combatant acquisition program since WWII, and the largest number of ships delivered by a single project manager -- most of them ahead of schedule and under cost. To say that Dave retired reluctantly is a massive understatement. I think he'd have worked for free if the Navy would have let him, but by now the Crohn's was diagnosed and retirement inevitable. In 1985 he joined the firm of System Planning Corporation. His inability to do any job with less than 100% effort ensured that he became a valuable member of the organization. For all of Dave's professional life he was known to be fiercely loyal to and caring of the people he worked for, those he worked with, and those who worked for him. Dave was an avid gardener; our yard is eloquent testament to years of hard work creating an extraordinary space. He loved the opera with a passion and in recent years he was a docent in The Washington Opera's new educational program. For ten years while our kids were there he was The Voice of Montgomery Blair High School, announcing all football and basketball games and swim meets. Dave and I were always a team. He was intensely proud of me as I was of him -- and of our children; David III architect in Philadelphia, John William computer specialist in Atlanta, and Wendy Bozzi who is a Special Education teacher in Phoenix. He was a doting grandfather to David's Calder and Wendy's Meagan and John. Dave's ashes were buried with full military honors in Arlington National Cemetery following a service at the Fort Myer Post Chapel at 2 PM Wednesday 19 July 1995 in Section I, just a few steps away from the beautiful obelisk marking the grave of cousin Admiral Roger Nelson Stembel, hero of the Civil War. Respectfully submitted, |
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It is sad to report that Rene de Valery passed away on July 21 1995 in Caracas, Venezuela, from the effects of a heart attack. His sister Sarah de Valery wrote to say that he was always very pleased to receive correspondence from the Naval Academy Tom Kiefaber's column in Shipmate, October 1995 |
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Twenty years of engineering on ships and staff (material) ashore. A "professional chief engineer" on all types of ships, with time off for Vietnam duty and PG school, Monterey. Since retiring in 1975, worked for Wheeler Industries in support of FFG-7, CG-47 (AEGIS) and DDG-51 (AEGIS) ship classes. Thirty Years Later -- 1985 |
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Carl "Buddy" Taylor, Jr. died at home on 11 November 1995 after a courageous bout with cancer. Classmates will remember Carl as a fun-loving shipmate who valued family and friends above all else. After graduation, he served in surface vessels prior to leaving active duty and earning a master's degree in electrical engineering. He eventually retired as an engineer and manager after 25 years of service with Florida Power Corporation. Active in civic and community affairs in Crystal River, FL, Carl was know for devotion to family, for his work ethic and for his desire to help the less fortunate in society. Community leaders described him as straightforward, honest, and concerned about his relationship with others. His minister said, "Carl faced death with faith, home, love, courage and dignity. His sharing and giving nature were evident to the end." Survivors include his wife Jackie Litton Taylor, two sons, Carl H. Taylor III and Bradford C. Taylor; two daughters, Mrs. Daniel Wilder and Mrs. J. B. Caldwell; nine grandchildren and an aunt, Mrs. Carl Humes. December 1996 Shipmate TAYLOR, Carl H., Jr., Resigned from USN 1960 The active duty time was spent mostly at sea after the summer of '55 in the Executive Department at Annapolis. Types were Destroyers, Amphibs and Submarine. Duties were Electronics, Communications and Engineering. All children but the youngest boy were born during these tours - two in Norfolk and one in Key West. Work from 1960-1969 was as a Machinery Specialist with the Continental Insurance Co.'s investigating, and inspecting large industrial electrical-mechanical installations. 1969 to present has been working with Florida Power Corporation as Electrical Engineer, Maintenance and Results Supt. in a power plant, Power Plant Supt., Power Plant Manager during design, construction and start-up, and cost control specialist. My Professional Engineer Registration is in Florida. The best of all these has been my time with the family since leaving the service. I am a member of IEEE, Lions Club, Elks Club, and am an amateur radio operator. Thirty Years Later -- 1985 |
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KENNEY, Charles Edward, USAF Retired I accepted a commission in the Air Force and Pat and I spent our first year with some of the '5 5 gang at Kessler AFB, Biloxi, Miss. Next came a tour as an Electronics Officer in a Fighter Interceptor Squadron, DOVER AFB, Del. Also came two babies. Two years in graduate school at the University of Michigan were followed by seven years at Wright-Patterson AFB, Dayton, Ohio. Three more children arrived during this tour. One year was spent at Command & Staff, Maxwell AFB, Ala. where I also picked up an MBA from Auburn U. and Pat and I had our sixth child. Next eight years were in and around Washington - one year at NWC and four years at the Pentagon. A two year tour with the IG at Norton AFB, Ca. was followed by a final year back in Washington. After retiring in 1980 we returned to California to live in San Diego. I was employed at Teledyne Ryan Aeronautical as a program manager until 1984 when I was appointed President, Teledyne Kinetics, a separate company in the San Diego area. Pat has built a career in tax consulting and when our youngest son graduates from college, we will be on social security. Thirty Years Later -- 1985 |
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DURGIN, David Andrew, Retired from USN 1974 After serving a year and one half on the McCard, I applied for and was assigned to submarine school. Upon completion of sub school, I reported to Croaker with her seemingly continuous deployments, then to Diablo with the accompanying horrors of being on a school boat. In 1960, when the request came for volunteers to man the all bachelor crewed Archerfish, I applied and was assigned to that unique submarine. As it turned out later, I was assigned to Archerfish again, after a break of about three years to attend PG School and a tour at SUBFLOT Seven in Yokuska, so I spent a lot of time visiting exotic ports (some not so exotic) all over the world. In 1967, leaving what was to prove my last sea duty, I reported to the Naval Scientific and Technical Intelligence Center (NAVSTIC) later to be changed to the Naval Intelligence Support Center (NISC) for the final seven years of my Naval Career. Having been involved with intelligence so long has also provided me with the hobby of Soviet watching through reading and studying the vast amount of literature available on the subject, especially around the Washington area. After retirement, I went to work at the Oceanic Division of Westinghouse Electric Corporation in Annapolis, so I've almost come a complete circle geographically. Last, but not least, I finally got married to a wonderful lady, named Joy, in November 1984. Certainly makes me wonder why I waited so long. Thirty Years Later -- 1985 |
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WALKER, Eugene R., Retired from USN (1975) 55-58 USS Wren (DD-538), OPs Officer, Norfolk
Married Phoebe Bole of Philadelphia, PA. in August 1956. We have two sons. Eugene, Jr. is with Marriott Corp. and Robert is a LT in the USMC. |
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Henry C. North, Jr., known to his many friends as "Hank", was born on 10 November 1932 to Henry Carlton North and Linnon Johnson North. He was a native of Glynn county, an honor graduate of Glynn Academy, Class of 1950, where he participated in many school activities, and was a member of the basketball, baseball, tennis, track and football teams. He attended North Georgia Academy and in 1955 graduated from the Naval Academy, where he placed first in Leadership. He also graduated from the Naval Postgraduate School, Monterey, CA, with a master's degree in physics. Hank served as a fighter pilot on Saratoga. While in California, he was directly involved in the development of the Walleye and Condor missiles in the Naval Air systems. He served as Commanding Officer of the Naval Rework Facility in Norfolk, VA. Hank was the Project Manager of the Trident Training Facility at the Trident Submarine Base in Kings Bay, GA. He retired on 1 July 1986 with the rank of captain over 30 years of active duty. During his service in the Navy, he received the National Defense Service Medal, the Navy Achievement Medal, Navy Commendation Medal and the Legion of Merit. Hank was married on 12 October 1957 to Jimmie Claire Copeland and they have three children: Terry Clare North-Yonker, Millanne Copeland North, and Henry Carlton North, III. Hank enjoyed cooking, jogging, tennis and training his dogs, Missy, Midnight and Skipper. October 1996 Shipmate NORTH, Henry C, Jr., Captain, USN Hank earned his aviator wings in October 1956, upon completion of basic and advanced flight training at Pensacola, Fla. He subsequently advanced to the grade of Captain in September 1975. Hank's initial fleet assignment was to Light Photographic Squadron SIXTY-TWO (VFP-62) homeported at Jacksonville, FL. In June 1959 he attended the Naval Postgraduate School at Monterey, California, and received a Masters degree in physics in June 1962. He then reported to Light Attack Squadron ONE HUNDRED SIXTY-FOUR (VA- 1 64) at Lemoore CA. While serving in VA- 164, Hank was designated an Aeronautical Engineering Duty Officer. Reporting to the Bureau of Naval Weapons in June 1964, he served as Assistant Project Officer for the Walleye and Condor weapons projects. In August 1967, he was assigned as the F-4 Fighter Class Desk Officer for Commander, Naval Airforce, Pacific Fleet. From May 1969 to March 1971, he served as Assistant Chief of Staff for Maintenance/Material, Commander, Fleet Air', Jacksonville. He then reported to the Naval Air Rework Facility, Jacksonville, and served as Production Officer until July 1972, and as EO until June 1974. From June 1974 to June 1976, he served as Plant Representative at Dothan, Ala. Reporting to Naval Air Systems Command, Washington, DC in June 1976, he served as Head of the Aeronautical Engineering Duty/Aeronautical Maintenance Duty/Aviation Limited Duty Officer/Warrant Officer Career Management Division with additional duty in the Bureau of Naval Personnel as Head of the AED/AMD Distribution Branch. Hank then served as Commanding Officer, Naval Air Rework Facility, Norfolk, VA from August 1978 to August 1980, prior to his assignment as Director, Depot Management Directorate Naval Aviation Logistics Center, Patuxent River, MD, in September 1980. Hank assumed duties as Commander, Naval Aviation Logistics Center in August 1982. In August 1983 he reported to the Naval Air Systems Command to serve as Executive Director for operations in the systems and engineering group. Hank's decorations include the Legion of Merit, the Navy Commendation Medal, Gold Star in lieu of a second Navy Commendation Medal, and the Navy Achievement Medal. Hank is married to the former Jimmie Claire Copeland of Brunswick, GA. They have two daughters, Terry and Millanne, and one son, Henry III. Thirty Years Later -- 1985 |
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CDR Arthur Gordon Bedford, SC, USN (Ret), age
66, died of
respiratory failure at his home in Jacksonville, FL on 23 May 1996. He
was born in Detroit, MI on 24 November 1929, the son of Harry and
Nellie (Middleton) Bedford, and later moved to Sanford, ME, where he
attended local schools, graduating from Sanford High School in the
class of 1948. Gordon joined the Navy on 14 December 1948 in
Portland, ME,
and spent two and a half years in an enlisted status. He entered the
Naval Academy Prep School at Newport, RI in 1950 and won an appointment
to Annapolis through a fleet-wide exam, entering USNA in 1951.
After his 1955 graduation, and Supply School at
Athens, GA,
he served with the Sixth Fleet aboard CAPERTON (DD-650). His next tour
took him to Portsmouth Naval Shipyard, Portsmouth, NH where he served
as Assistant Purchasing Superintendent. In 1959, Gordon received orders
to report to
Navy Section, Military Aid Advisory Group, Republic of Taiwan, Taipei,
Taiwan. From 1961 to 1963 he was Director of Procurement, Yards and
Docks Supply Office, Port Hueneme, California. From 1963-65 he served
as Stores Officer aboard the Kitty Hawk with the Seventh
Fleet. In 1965 he received orders to attend Harvard
Business
School, earning his MBA in 1967. From 1967 to 1970 he was stationed at
Navy Material Command Headquarters, Washington, DC, as Head,
Procurement Planning Branch. His last tour of duty, 1970-73 was as
Officer-in-Charge, Navy Purchasing Department, China Fleet Club, Hong
Kong. Following Gordon's Naval career, he was
Managing Director
of Galleon
Cove, Ltd., a holding company in the Fiji Islands, and when he returned
to
the US, he was an account executive with Merrill Lynch in Jacksonville,
FL.
From 1978 to 1984 he was Business Manager of The Seven Hills Schools in
Cincinnati,
OH, returning to live in Jacksonville in 1986. Gordon suffered from emphysema for many years,
but was able
to play saxophone and clarinet with several musical organizations in
the Jacksonville area on his "good days," which amazed and astounded
his doctors and himself! In addition to his interest in music, Gordon
enjoyed his computer and his Summers spent in Maine in his motor home.
He was always quick to give credit to the Navy for his fine education
and for allowing him to make something of himself. Gordon is survived by his wife of 41 years, the former Martha Elizabeth (Betty) Grange, daughters Susan Braukman, and Alison Myketiak, grandson Trevor Arthur Braukman, and son-in-law, Don J. Myketiak. September 1996 Shipmate |
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In June of '86 I plan to call it quits with the US Navy. Retrospectively - if I had the opportunity to do it over - I'd do it exactly the same. Upon reporting to CINCLANTFLT in 1955 as a "PIO (Under Instruction)," meeting Loretta perhaps was the greatest boon to whatever successes I might have had over the years. "Super Wife" added "Super Mom" to her titles presenting us with one baby for each year while assigned on a 3 year tour in Hollywood. All three, a boy (Lou) and two girls (Tracy and Dawn) saw first light in Cedars of Lebanon Hospital and both Loretta's doctors were relieved when the Bureau sent us to Hawaii. With the Lord's help, and a little from us, all are grown. Lou is in business for himself in "Crabtown" of all places. The girls reside and work in Tidewater where we plan to retire. Professionally, the experiences of over 30 years in Navy Public Affairs have been challenging and rewarding. From getting Ed Murrow's laundry from the Cavalier Hotel to the base laundry during a CBS "See It Now" location shoot in 1955 to having lunch with Jomo Kenyata at his ranch north of Nairobi as the advance man on the first major cruise into the Indian Ocean brackets the sort of thing I've been doing over the past three decades. Experiences as Head of the Navy News Desk in the Pentagon for 3 years, the making among others of "PT- 109" (produced and directed from the oval office), TET of 1968 while serving as the PAO for the "brown water navy" and picking up Bill Anders and his Appollo 8 pals in 1969 "somewhere south of Samoa" and a couple of Bob Hope's birthday TV shows are just a few of the highlights that vividly come to mind. Loretta and I are now looking forward to the coming years with great anticipation. We've dropped our anchor on the beach at 1820 E. Ocean View Avenue, Norfolk, VA, just 3 miles east of the old amusement park. I plan to finally utilize my real estate license, and Loretta and I plan to travel and occasionally salute the haze- gray hulks that frequently pass in front of our deck - at times with frozen daiquiris if the situation warrants. We will be "at home" if you are ever in the neighborhood. Thirty Years Later |
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Retired Lt. Colonel Robert Bradley Stuart, who
would later
work on the early space shuttle models as well as for several Las Vegas
engineering firms, died of cancer on 9 July 1996 at his Las Vegas home.
He was 63. Stuart had been a flight instructor for a year
before
serving his two-year stint in Vietnam. He received numerous air medals
and a Meritorious Service award for his missions, which included
dropping flares to mark enemy sites for bombers and refueling planes in
mid-flight. Robert Petty, a boyhood chum of Stuart,
remembered him for
his integrity and intelligence. His high grades at Moapa Valley High in Overton
earned
Stuart a recommendation from US Senator Pat McCarra to the Naval
Academy, where he distinguished himself in academics.
Born in Las Vegas, Stuart's father, Bradley was
a Union
Pacific Railroad pumper, who also had graduated from the Naval Academy.
His mother was a former school teacher. Although Stuart's military career took him all
over the
United States and overseas for a quarter century, he always called Las
Vegas home, and eventually settled here in 1975. Locally, he worked as
an engineer for BDM and SAIC. In the early manned space flights of the 1960s,
Stuart was
a recovery
officer on missions to pluck astronauts from capsules floating on the
ocean.
Among them was John Glenn, the first American astronaut to orbit the
Earth. Stuart's engineering career included working on
the Manned
Orbiting Laboratories, now known as the space shuttles.
Stuart developed a love for acting late in
life. He and his
wife appeared together as extra in films. Also in his later years, Stuart worked on a
ranch the
couple owns
outside of town where they also mined sand and gravel.
In addition to his wife, Stuart is survived by a daughter, Scarlett Yokomizo, and two granddaughters, Nicole and Alexandra Yokomizo. November 1996 Shipmate STUART, Robert Bradley, Lieutenant Colonel, USAF (Retired) Thanks to Navy policy on '55 first class year physicals, it took me almost a year to beat my way into Air Force pilot training, followed by three fun-filled years as a SAC tanker pilot. There were 2 paths out of SAC: die or go to school. I picked up an MS in Astronautics in '62 and went into AF Systems Command, in what was then Space Systems Division. Had the good fortune to work on all of two military manned space programs; Dynasoar, an ancestor of the Shuttle, and the Manned Orbiting Laboratory. In 1966 I went back to the cockpit as a C-130 trash hauler and night Forward Air Controller in SEA. Came back in '69, taught computers two years at Air University and went back to the space business. This time I worked on the Defense Support Program, an early warning satellite program, as the ground station software guru. Retired in '7 5 and came home to Nevada with the intention of introducing systems planning into the hotel-casino industry. The industry was not interested, so in '76 I became a contractor test engineer, systems analyst, programmer and all-around technical gopher. Still am. Joan and I went together starting youngster year spring leave and were married the day after graduation. June '85 makes 30 for us also, and we expect to be in Hawaii on June 3rd. Our daughter is 28 now and will finish her Education Degree this December. Our granddaughter will be 7 on June 6 and is the reigning Nevada baton twirling champion for her age group. We are in the phone book for anyone from '55 who comes to Vegas. Thirty Years Later -- 1985 |
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Rear Admiral, USN A career naval officer, still on active duty 30 years later, I can sum it all up in two words - singularly uneventful. Dull never; fun - absolutely, or I'd never have stayed; satisfaction, challenges/rewards - beyond my fondest dreams! Direct to flight training, "Smoke" Wilson, Joe Malec and I, flew F-9s and got our wings together. The F-8Us in VFP-62 led to PG school and a tour on COMFARWESTPAC Staff. Maintenance, three years and two children later, not to mention battle damage repair and corrosion control experience resulted in a change to Aeronautical Engineering duty and my first of four tours in NAVAIR. The "Motor Mafia" was great. I help in a small way to "kill" the F-111B and create the resulting F- 14, never dreaming I'd return some day to be Project Manager. The end of two years on CNAP staff as F-4 Class Deck coincided with no PCS dollars for BUPERS, therefore duty "back to back" in San Diego, that "briar patch" of naval aviation. At NARF NORIS we did the F-4B to N development and conversion. It's absolutely amazing what one could do with four little ECPs in those days! ICAF was a magnificent broadening experience - helped me survive the next four years in the F-14/ Phoenix Project Office. "A model FMS program around which a government collapsed;" that was the one liner about our Iranian F-14 program. All of which gave us more visibility than I ever hope to have again. "Rewarding the guilty and punishing the innocent" as the old saying goes resulted in flag selection. "Chief Engineer" and then "Mother Hen" for all aircraft and missile programs; completed my fourth tour and eighth consecutive year in NAVAIR. I currently hold the title "Commandant" (much to the chagrin of our USMC Brethren) at the Defense Systems Management College. Fifty-five is not only alive but continues to champion both innovative financing and creative contracting. Gainfully employed, in excellent health, with a loving wife of 28 years and three fine children, I have been uniquely blessed. Thirty Years Later |
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Phillip F. Gehring In December of 1991 Phil wrote the following to Shipmate Being a lifetime member of the Alumni Association, I eagerly look for the '55 column and the stories about our Classmates. I still have some contact with my "wife" J.R. Stevens and my friend Joe Chmelik. However, except for those 22nd Company mates, I'm afraid I'm out of touch. After 24 exciting years with the Air Force, including time as an ICBM combat crew commander, my priority retirement decision was to opt for quality of life. So, my choice was to live in Austin, Texas. Prior to leaving the service, I managed to take a Ph. D. in Computing Science at Texas A&M. My strong social service interests, however, led me into education. I am now an Assistant to the State Deputy Commissioner of Education for Curriculum. Professional affiliations enabled me to cause the state of Texas to mandate a course in Computer literacy for all 7th grade students. That happened about 8 years ago. From that humble beginning, Texas now has computer technology being used and studied from first grade through high school. I'm proud of that accomplishment which took two years of organizational lobbying efforts. I do a lot of public speaking and some television presentations... however, the real pleasure in my work comes from helping to improve the education system for all children in this great state. Paulette, my wife of 33 years passed away over four years ago. I am now remarried to Sandra Beasley, a young Texas lady and currently the District Sales Manager for Apple Computer in central Texas. Sandy has two children by a previous marriage. Our daughter is a junior at the University of Texas studying psychology. Our son is a junior in high school and is a math/science/computer whiz. My four children are all doing well. My daughter Nannette, the youngest, just graduated as a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from Texas A&M. Two sons are also graduates of Texas A&M. One son, Christopher, is with Dell Computer and technically sets up all their European offices. My oldest son, Philip Geoffrey is manager of a restaurant in Austin. My third son, Nick, a young man with special needs since birth, works for a janitorial service, is married to a college graduate and provided us with our first granddaughter. I'm still a formidable opponent in handball and play regularly. My tennis game ain't bad but I don't chase lobs! We have a 25 foot sloop docked on Lake Travis and we love to sale and camp out on the boat. Life is good and we are living it to the fullest. Everyone is always surprised by our wonderful lakes and the beauty of this hill country region of Texas. I encourage anyone who is traveling this way to call ahead and rest for a spell and maybe sail along with us while sampling our excellent Texas wines. |
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James H. Dickinson (3), Col USAF (Ret) of Florida died April 18, 1997 after a brief illness. Jim was born in Port Angeles, WA on August 3, 1933 and attended schools in Port Angeles, Sedro Wooley and Marysville. Jim graduated from Marysville High School and was appointed to the United States Naval Academy at Annapolis by Senator Henry Jackson in 1951. After his training at the Academy, he entered the Air Force Pilot Training Program and in 1962 earned a MS in Aeronautical Engineering at the Air Force Institute of Technology. Jim served in the Air Force over a quarter century. During his service he was decorated with U.S. Air Force Commendation Medals for sustained outstanding airmanship and for outstanding performance as a forward air controller and the Silver Star for heroic performance during a helicopter rescue mission in Vietnam. Jim continued his career in the Air Force with this same dedication until his retirement in 1981. He then turned his attentions to aerospace in the private sector. Jim leaves his wife, Mae Dickinson; daughter Jeanne Chacon and husband, Ric; son, Mike and wife, Melissa. He also leaves his sons, Carl and Michael of Florida. George H. Martin (16) reported Jim's death and added a vignette: Jim's hometown of Marysville, WA is located 5 miles north of Everett where Jerry Gerdon (16) and I grew up. Youngster vacation, Jerry was able to convince the local Hudson dealer that he could save transportation costs by letting the three of us drive a new Hudson Hornet from Detroit to Everett. Thanks to Dave Reedy (17) and his mother, we got a ride with them to Detroit to pick up the car. We'd hardly warmed up the engine and were still in the outskirts of Detroit when a truck threw a rock cracking the windshield. This was the year when Hudson first introduced their the one piece front window. Needless to say, Jerry had a lot to explain to the dealer when he delivered it some three days later! '55 Column in Shipmate September 1997 |
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J.E. "Phil" Harmon (17) passed away at his home in Florida on June 19, 1997. He is survived by his wife Barbara (Bobbie)and three children; Charles (Chic), Richard (Rick) and Susan, as well as 9 grandchildren, his father James E. Harmon and sister Joyce Clounch. '55 Column in Shipmate September 1997 HARMON, J. E. "Phil," Resigned from USN 1966 Phil has had a busy career since he resigned his commission in 1966. His career in private industry from 1966 through 1976 spanned the fields of manufacturing, marketing, planning and real estate. Since 1976 Phil has worked in various administrative and managerial positions in the Florida State Government. At present he is the Administrative Services Director of the Landmark Learning Center in Miami, Florida. Phil and his wife, Bobbie reside in Cape Coral, Florida. Thirty Years Later |
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Capt. Gardner was born in Ann Arbor, Mich., and grew up in Washington. He was a graduate of Wilson High School and attended the Severn School. He was a 1955 graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis and received a master's degree in operations research from the Naval Postgraduate School in Monterey, California. He began his Navy career as a destroyer gunnery officer. He served aboard the aircraft carrier BOXER during its participation in the 1958 nuclear weapons tests in the Marshall Islands. In the 1960s, his assignments included command of a sea-going tug and service as a destroyer executive officer in Vietnamese waters, rescuing downed U.S. pilots. From 1966 to 1969, he served with the Bureau of Naval Personnel in Washington., then spent a year as deputy chief of the data management agency at Military Assistance Command headquarters in Saigon. He retired from active duty in 1970 and from the reserves in 1981. His decorations included the Bronze Star and Joint Services Commendation Medal. After retiring from active duty, Capt. Gardner worked in marketing and consulting, specializing in business-process reengineering. Before starting his own company, he served as a vice president of D. Appleton Co., working on management projects for such clients as the Defense Department. Capt. Gardner had served on an advisory panel of the National Academy of Public Administration. His marriage to Ann Gardner ended in divorce. Survivors include his wife of 30 years, the
former Susan
Anne Whitener, and their daughter, Cindy Gardner; two sons from his
first marriage, Paige Koerbel and Duncan Koerbel; a brother, Henry; a
sister, Nancy Cassels; and five grandchildren. Geoff had a hand in creating our Winning the Cold War mural. The following is from our class column in the May 1991 issue of Shipmate: "Geoff Gardner has agreed to be the coordinator, concept and idea guy for our task of decorating and dedicating the West stairway landing of Alumni Hall (nee Brigade Activities Center). An Academy committee will establish a unifying theme for the whole building and then Geoff and his committee will propose and incorporate their own ideas. We have resources, artists and photo workers standing by to begin-- the dedication will be sometime in the Fall of '91. If any Classmates have any thoughts about decorating a wall that is approximately 40' wide by 15' high, please give Geoff a call." |
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Don Bourke was born in New London, CT and graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy in 1955 in the top 10% of his class. He was captain of the gymnastics team and won second place in the parallel bars at the Eastern Intercollegiate Championships during his first class year. Following graduation, he spent four years on destroyers in the Pacific. He then resigned his commission and attended graduate school at UCLA for two years in electrical engineering, followed by four years at Jet Propulsion Laboratory, Pasadena,CA as senior research engineer on unmanned space probes. His own designs were used on Viking and Mariner II, still in space. Don spent the remainder of his career at IBM in California and Boca Raton, FL, retiring in early 1989. While with IBM, he became one of their top design engineers with numerous awards for excellence, patents and published papers. Don was elected to a very select group as senior technical staff engineer, playing an instrumental role in several IBM success stories. Don loved sailing and racing in both his own Hobie Cat and others, and crewing for friends on larger yachts. Upon retirement from IBM, he joined the Coast Guard Auxiliary, working the waterways and instructing classes. He and his wife Nancy moved to Prescott, AZ in July 1994, where he worked on several Habitat for Humanity homes as well as accomplishing much work on his 25 yr. old log house. Don studied art both in Boca Raton and Prescott and has several works hanging. He loved music and camping. He was instrumental in starting the Indian Guides program at the YMCA in Boca Raton, FL in 1970, continuing the activities started with his sons in Thousand Oaks, CA Survivors include his wife, Nancy J. Bourke of Prescott, AZ; two sons, Dana W. Bourke of Seattle, WA and Jon R. Bourke of Prescott, AZ; a brother, Richard W. Bourke of Pasadena, CA, and his mother, Beatrice Tydings Williamson, living in Laguna Hills, CA. The following tribute was written by his roommate and friend, Robert B. Vollum. It is with great sadness and deep personal sorrow that I report the passing of Don Bourke February 28, 1998 at his home in Prescott, Arizona. He had waged a long and courageous battle against cancer, fighting impossible odds but refusing to quit. The end came suddenly and mercifully with Nancy at his side. He is survived by his wife, Nancy, their two sons Dana and Jon, an older brother, and his mother. Don's wishes are that his body be cremated and his ashes scattered at sea. No further plans have been announced. Those wishing to express sympathy and support to Nancy and the family can do so at their home: 2141 Katahn Drive, Prescott, Arizona 86301. We as classmates will remember Don for his great warmth, his understated chuckle and sense of humor, and his unquestioned, deep, personal moral values, honesty and integrity. We will remember him as the Gym team parallel bars man nonpareil and the captain of the 1955 team. Those of us who sat through classes with him will forever wonder how he graduated so near the top since he fell asleep in virtually every class he attended and never had to put in much effort studying. Don left the Navy after his obligated service and joined the Jet Propulsion Lab back in those exciting times of early space research and development. After a few years with JPL, he joined IBM where he spent the rest of his career. He spent many years in Boca Raton, Florida and retired from there as one of a very select group of highly distinguished and decorated engineers. He held a number of patents, published many technical papers, and played an instrumental role in several of the IBM success stories. As a person and a friend, all of us who knew him, in whatever role, will remember Don Bourke as one of the genuine people we are sometimes, but rarely, privileged and blessed to have share our lives. He was one of the best and truly will be missed. |
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At the Naval Academy Eddie continued to excell in athletics. He wrestled, played 150-pound football, in which he was awarded an N-star, and was a member of the 1954 USNA National Champion lacrosse team. He gained honorable mention to the All-American team, and in his First Class year won the C. Markland Kelly prize for leadership and sportsmanship on the varsity lacrosse team. After graduation from the Naval Academy, Eddie served at sea in McCaffery, Tunny and Newport News. He also commanded the destroyer, Ault. His shore tours included NTDS programmer at Dam Neck, VA; instructor at Submarine School, New London; OpNav staff and at the Fleet Training Center, Guantanamo. His war service was as Commander, River Squadron 55, and Chief of Staff Rung Sat Special Zone. For his service, he received two Bronze Stars, the Vietnamese Cross of Gallantry, and numerous other personal and unit awards. After retiring from the Navy, Eddie continued his life-long interest in sports and young people. He established the Naval Junior ROTC unit at Walbrook High School In Baltimore, where he taught math for ten years and was the Naval Science Instructor. He also coached the Walbrook High lacross team, which won the Maryland State C Class championship in 1989, and coached Anne Arundel Youth Lacrosse for 15 years. He was a member of the Military Order of the World Wars, the Fleet Reserve Association, the Maryland Bible Association, and the Naval Academy Alumni and Athletic Associations. Eddie married his childhood sweetheart, Carol Lippincott Levis, who lived nearby in Wardour during their school years. The were married for 43 years. Also surviving are four sons: Navy CDR Edmund Lewis Turner, Jr. '81; Coast Guard LCDR Charles Alexander Turner; Army Specialist Timothy Howard Turner; and Christopher Robert Turner; one daughter Lisa Turner Taylor; six grandchildren; his mother, Virginia Lewis Turner; his sister, Alice Turner Michalak; and his brother George Howard Turner. Eddie was a part of the light of the world to his family, friends Classmates and countless young people with whom he worked in his career. He is greatly missed. Shipmate - May 1999 Remembering My Boyhood with Eddie Turner 4/3/98 Time and distance did not permit my being with all of you today to remember Eddie, our classmate, our friend, and my boyhood pal. Therefore, let me relate to all of you all some of my earliest memories of Eddie, which will give you a special insight to his childhood that you might not get otherwise. Some of you might know that he and I grew up together in Wardour, in the same neighborhood where he and Carol have lived all these years. When my two brothers, sister, and I moved to Annapolis in 1940 for our Dad's second tour of duty as Engineering Department Head at the Academy we were immediately befriended by Eddie Turner, a smiling, outgoing, adventurous, and mischievous Tom Sawyer of a kid. He was a year older than I was. As the natural neighborhood leader, Eddie took it upon himself to squeeze out of each and every day the most fun you could possibly imagine for all of us kids ranging in ages of 5 to 9 years. He would somehow manage to include everyone in the major events such as sandlot football, baseball, or commando warfare against other neighborhood "gangs". However, for the day-to-day adventures we had a closed membership that met in The Clubhouse, a small tool shed on the waterfront at his home looking out on the Severn River. That is where we really grew up and became wise to the ways of the World around us. Hours upon hours throughout the year, hot or cold, rainy or sunny we would discuss, read, argue, play games, learn about girls, grownups, good and bad people in the neighborhood, and plan our next adventure, project, or talk about how each of us was going to the USNA. Often during warmer days we would spend many hours on his screened-in front porch playing Chinese Checkers and Ma Jong. Sometimes, even the girls from nearby, the Armbrusters sisters and Morris girls, would be invited. I think that Carol, the cute little red-haired girl of the Levis family, who lived across the street, might have come over a few times, but I'm not sure. But girls never entered the clubhouse on the waterfront! According to Eddie's number one rule it was absolutely out of bounds to girls! From as far back as I can remember Eddie would always make sure that each of us played sports and never were afraid to try just about everything one. We were always pulled into baseball, tag football, ping pong, badminton, and later Lacrosse. The most memorable football game that I recall was against a gang of boys from Dreams Landing Navy Housing led by a young fireball named Henry Mustin. They lived up to their reputation of being tough, but I think we beat them due to all-out practicing Eddie demanded of us. It was one of his shining moments of young leadership. I'll never forget it. (I wonder if our classmate, Hank Mustin, also remembers that game) There was soft-shell and hard-shell crabbing, swimming, sledding, ice skating and piece-of-coal puck ice hockey out on Weems and Spa creeks. Every week we also walked the rails of the B&O train tracks into Annapolis to see the Saturday matinee movie for all of 11 cents. Afterwards Eddie led the way to the toy store to pick up the latest matchbox model tanks, jeeps, half tracks, and planes to play "Soldier" in front of his home near the Clubhouse. The scariest adventure of all was the game of "train chicken". While standing on the rails on the railroad bridge, which crossed the Severn at Wardour, we were required, as the train approached, to wait until the very last moment to leap into the water, about 30 feet down. The last one to leap wins! Another version called for us to stick our heads up between the railroad ties and make faces at the engineer of the approaching train, ducking down at the very last second. In later years I often wondered how many of these train engineers suffered near-heart attacks because of us crazy little Wardour Boys. I also wondered if our mothers ever knew about this game. Eddie talked us into not being afraid to take risks. Then there were the all out neighborhood games of Cops and Robbers, Commandos, and Robin Hood. I remember that the Mustin Gang was rumored to be coming in from Dreams Landing to engage our Wardour Gang in Commando Warfare. I can't remember if it ever materialized, after a great deal of tactical training and strategic planning led by our young leader, Eddie. One day he gathered us together in the clubhouse to discuss plans to build a submarine. At the nearby Navy dump we found an industrial water tank and hauled it home to the Turner waterfront. Eddie convinced a friend of his Dad to cut a hatch in our soon-to- be submarine. He also fashioned a hatch cover that we could hold shut after submerging. Our master plan seems to have left out such things as breathing, a periscope fixture, propulsion, and escape. Fortunately, Eddie's Mom ended our early submarine careers just in time. As an epilogue to this story, Eddie, my brother Dave, and I all became submariners in the real thing a few years later. I am convinced that many qualities of my own character that helped me in later years, such as strong leadership, unselfishness, working hard, fairness, honesty, business sense, and risk-taking came from Eddie's leadership, friendship, and role model. He had passed to me his Wardour-West Annapolis paper routes by the time I turned 10 years old. He handed over all the lawn-mowing jobs he had held throughout the neighborhood for years. I can't remember why he was so good at convincing me that I needed all of these jobs, but I ended up with them all. Then the final episode in my remembrance of Eddie was when the worst tragedy of all befell my family. Eddie became very much involved putting his heart out to us all. He was all of 13 years old. While I was in school my Mother was suddenly killed in a freak accident of slipping on ice near our home. Eddie, who had gone to our home to see us after school, ran all the way back to our school about ten blocks away to tell the Principal of the tragedy and then to walk us all home. My Dad was away in the War and my older sister was away in school, so nobody else was at home, except some family friends. Eddie quickly arranged for us to temporarily live with his Grandmother next door to his house, with his family and with another family across the street. There were four of us to get situated until my Dad could get home. So Eddie became our big brother and acting father. I was never able to thank him enough for this truly remarkable deed he performed. Well, that's the story of some of my boyhood with Eddie Turner. Maybe he'll fill in some of his own tales when we join him in that Biggest Of All 55 Reunions sometime in the next Millennium... a so long for now to this wonderful guy, Classmate, and pal. God Bless you all, my fellow Classmates... |
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Date: Sun, 5 Apr 98 From: "Ted Parker" Our Classmate, F. Clayton Rose (19) died in his sleep from the effects of cancer Saturday night, at home. His wife, Midge, misses him terribly. A memorial Service will be held for Clay at St. Peters Episcopal Church in Smyrna, Delaware on Tuesday the 7th at a time to be announced. Smyrna is ten or so miles north of Dover. Ted Parker (19) Date: Sun, 5 Apr 1998 To: usna55 listserv Funeral will be at 1400 Tuesday, 7 April at St. Peter's Episcopal Church, N. Union Street, Smyrna, Delaware. One thing I did not know about Clay and Midge is that they have served during their 40 year marriage as foster parents to 57 children. In His love, Bruce Newell |
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With a heavy
heart, I report that
this
morning (19 April) we lost VADM Harry C. Schrader, Jr. USN(Ret) to a
sudden
heart attack. In recent years, Harry had been fighting a courageous
battle
against ALS (aka Lou Gehrig's disease). Harry had wished to be buried
in
Arlington. Carol Schrader plans east and west coast services, but
arrangements
have not yet been made. I'll keep you informed. Harry was a good one.
--
Ned Floyd
In 1960, Harry commenced a three-year tour of duty at the Naval Post- Graduate School in Monterey, California, where he earned a Masters' Degree in Physics. In August, 1963, following a tour of instruction at the Navy Diving School, he assumed command of the USS TAWASA (ATF 92). In April, 1966, following nuclear power training and Submarine School, he reported onboard the USS SCAMP (SSN 588) where he earned his dolphins. In December, 1967, he commenced a tour as Executive Officer of the USS THOMAS A. EDISON (SSBN 610). Harry assumed command of the Blue Crew of the USS ALEXANDER HAMILTON (SSBN 617) on January 17, 1970, and conducted six Polaris deterrent patrols. The Providence Plantation Council Award, signifying the most outstanding Polaris and Poseidon submarine in the Atlantic Fleet, was awarded to the HAMILTON for Fiscal Year 1972. Following detachment from the HAMILTON in November, 1972, Harry assumed command of USS ANDREW JACKSON (SSBN 619) for a brief period, and served on the staffs of Commander Submarine Flotilla SIX and Commander Submarine Refit and Training Group in La Maddalena, Sardinia. In 1973, Harry commenced a two-year tour as Commanding Officer of the USS HOWARD W. GILMORE (AS 16), the U.S. Sixth Fleet submarine tender homeported in La Maddalena, Sardinia. Returning to the surface forces in 1975, he commenced a three-year tour as commanding officer of USS LONG BEACH (CGN 9). He was selected for Flag rank while serving as Commanding Officer of that ship. His first flag assignment was director of MLSF, Amphibious, Mine and Advanced Naval Vehicles Ship Division, in the office of the Chief of Naval Operations. He held the post from August, 1978, until October, 1980 From October, 1980, to July 1982, Harry served as Commander Cruiser- Destroyer Group ONE, homeported in San Diego. During this tour of duty, he also served as Commander, Surface Combatant Force, U.S. SEVENTH Fleet, during deployment to the Western Pacific. He assumed duties as Commander, Naval Surface Force, U.S. Pacific Fleet on July 30, 1982, and was promoted to Vice Admiral in December, 1982. Harry is married to the former Carol Joan Gossman of Baltimore, Maryland. They and their daughter, Mary Clare, reside in Coronado, California. From "Thirty
Years Later" 1985 Harry Schrader remembered. I remember Harry as the confident almost swashbuckling company commander of our archrival 13th Company. I often thought how nice it would be to be as confident about anything as Harry was about everything. As a LT., Harry was C.O. of the fleet tug Tawasa out of San Diego. He used to tow the Trieste from our berth at the NEL pier to our deep diving area in the San Diego trough. He was born to command it seemed to me. Harry went on to command in the submarine nuclear and later surface nuclear program. We sat with Harry at the 25th reunion and he regaled us with stories of his successful investments in San Diego. His favorite was the motel outside the 32nd Street Naval Station gate in National City. It had an occupancy rate of 120 percent. In 1981 I called Harry for some advice. Our son Mike had graduated from Notre Dame and went surface line. The ship he drew was the USS Ranger a carrier, and I was concerned that a surface ensign on a carrier could be swallowed whole. The carriers are now the heart of the battle group and he will learn what battle group Ops are all about right from the command center, Harry reassured me. Harry's glass was always half full. (Mike did qualify as SWO, then went to flight school) In 1984 Harry was Commander Naval Surface Forces, Pacific, and we visited him in his office on Coronado. He was at ease confident that all his ships were performing their assigned missions. The three stars glistened on each collar tab. He mentioned that he was calling the shot on his next assignment because of family considerations. We salute you Harry. God Speed in your new command. George (14) and Dorothy Martin. Theresa and I had the good fortune to call on Carole and Harry in their Coronado condo early in March. We told great sea stories from our Lt commands of ATFs to tall tales about Rickover. Harry was always full of life even as he battled ALS. He reminded me as we talked what fun it was to tackle life with vigor and a happy spirit. Shortly before our visit, Harry and Carole had attended a mini-class reunion with a visiting Hank Mustin I think. It really meant a lot to him. The world seems a little dimmer tonight with that bright light gone. Bruce Newell |
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Doug graduated from Admiral Farragut in 1951, and from the Naval Academy in 1955, where he served on the Brigade staff. He left the Navy in 1959. His business career included several positions at Perkin-Elmer Corp., in Norwalk, where he was involved with the early development of laser technology. For 14 years, he was a partner in the investment banking firm of Hammond Kennedy in New York. He served on the boards of several companies including Baldwin Technology Corp., in Stamford, CT, and on the board of Westport County Playhouse. After retiring, he became a practitioner and teacher of Christian Science. He was a member of the Union League Club of New York, the U.S. Naval Academy Alumni Blue & Gold Association, the Norwalk Clergy Association and First Church of Christian Scientist, Norwalk. Doug is survived by his wife, Toni Hartzer Worth; a son, David Shannon Worth; a daughter, Lisa Worth Huber; and three stepchildren, Brian Hartzer, William Hartzer, and Carolyn Hartzer; two brothers, Donald V. Worth,and James V. Worth; and four grandchildren. He was predeceased by a sister, Barbara Worth. Doug spoke very highly of his experience at the Naval Academy and the tremendous impact it made on his character and career. The qualities of strength attained there enabled him to endure his last battle with dignity, grace and great faith in God's love for him. Shipmate Jan/Feb 1999 |
| Resigned from USN (1959)
After graduation, spent 4 years in Navy line-destroyers and minesweepers. Resigned and went into industry. Several years with different companies until 1964, then joined Perkin-Elmer Corp. Was a pioneer in the laser industry. Eventually ran Perkin-Elmer's commercial laser business and later, other operations in high-tech area. Ended up doing the corporation's planning and acquisition work. In 1974 joined Hammond, Kennedy - a small private investment banking company specializing in mergers and acquisitions, plus investment in industrial companies. Still there. Am, and have been, on Board of Directors of a number of privately held companies. Also have been trustee of non-profit organizations, including a private school, a regional theater and my church. After a 28 year marriage to Lynn, we were divorced. Having recovered, am planning to start all over again soon and still expect to celebrate a golden wedding anniversary. Daughter, Lisa, is an actress. Son, David, in grad school, is a fledgling novelist. Both are single. Living the life of a suburban commuter. Enjoy puttering around the house and am deeply involved in church activities. Enthusiastically preparing for my new home, new bride and new brood, am happy and having fun. From "Thirty Years Later" 1984 |
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Commander (SC), USN (Retired)
I retired in 1976 and accepted a job with Vitro Laboratories. Division of Automation Industries. 1980 was another year of change to Norfolk, Virginia. It was a perfect opportunity to build the family dream home in Virginia Beach, a long drawn out, frustration effort but rewarding for me and my family. Biography and photo from "Thirty Years Later"
1985 VIRGINIA BEACH -- Jack Randall Bedenbaugh, 66, died Sept. 23, 1998. A native of Greenville, S.C., he was a retired commander -- Supply Corps Officer from the U.S. Navy in 1976 and was a retired senior analyst from Vitro Corp. after 20 years of service. He was a graduate of Robert E. Lee High School, Jacksonville, Fla.; attended Marion Military Institute in Marion, Ala.; was a graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy, Class of 1955; and received his master's degree in Business Administration from George Washington University. He was a Navy veteran of Vietnam and an Episcopalian. Survivors include his loving wife of 43 years, Carole A. Bedenbaugh; four daughters, Karen Traub, Brenda Davis and her husband, Mack, Cheryl Mulcahy and her husband, Greg, and Grethchen Clement; eight grandchildren, Ryan, David and Adam Traub, Celina, Greg and Melanie Davis, and Brandon and Joshua Mulcahy. A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday at Saint Aidan's Episcopal Church by the Rev. Dr. Peter Hogg Jr. Burial will be private at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Tidewater Lost Chord Club, 2730 Ellsmere Ave., Norfolk, Va. 23513. Hollomon-Brown Funeral Home, Great Neck Chapel, is in charge. From the Virginia Pilot, Friday September 25, 1998. |
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A memorial will be held for Jimmie on his birthday, March 5, 1999. For more details and condolences, contact Rosemarie Jackson. I had the distinct pleasure of knowing Jimmie well, both at the academy (football, cruises, & liberty -"Town Hall"), and in the fleet (California, Yokosuka, etc.) and later in civilian life. I will miss dearly his zest for life, infectious laugh (giggle) and indomitable sense of humor. With deep regrets on the passing of a dear friend, Tom Kiefaber |
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Email from Alex Aronis: Jimmy played first trumpet in our Junior High band. I played second trumpet. Jimmy was First String on the All City Football Team (Los Angeles). I was Second String. We roomed together for two years and competed in handball, grades, dates and getting one another in trouble. Jimmy always won. (He really was lucky!) We never seemed to be able to get away from each other. Even summer cruises placed us on the same ships. We pulled liberty together in Norway and London. I had the honor of being his best man at his June Week wedding and the pleasure of gigling with him through the years as we reminisced time and again over the old stories. Now he's gone. It's hard to believe, painful to think about. My hope is that we will meet again, and that he will say, "Well, Alex, you were a little slow, but I'm glad you finally made it up here!" Alex Aronis Email from Chuck Henry It seems only a short time ago we were having good times with Jimmie Dee at the 40th reunion... Since we were both in 1st Company, I remember Jimmie Dee from the earliest days at the Academy, and found him to be one of the most constantly cheerful people I've ever known -- it was a dark day indeed when Jimmie couldn't dredge up an impish grin. This was often to his disadvantage during Plebe Year, as many of the First Company upper classmen didn't care for smiling in the least, and that trait earned him many "come-arounds." I recall being surprised when I learned of his considerable football skills, as he just didn't seem big enough to be as good as he was! I also recall being jealous when he took ownership of that brand-new convertible during June Week 1955. I only wish I had a better memory so I could more completely recall some of the great times we had together. Jimmie was a great guy, and I will miss him! Chuck Henry (01) Email from John Roberts Jimmie Dee is gone? I can't believe it. He was my wife for a year. I recall we were secondclassmen. Looking back I wonder how different that year might have been had Prozac been around at the time! Jimmie was the kinda guy I wanted to be... or at least I wanted to have some of his luck.-- He would go over the hill on Thursday night, there'd be a bed check Friday night! He'd go over the hill for a hot date Saturday night and there'd be a bed check Sunday! Tom Miller and I lived vicariously through the stories of Jimmie's adventures. Eventually, as I recall, he talked Tom into going with him. I can't believe Jimmie is gone. John Email from Ed McHale I too loved Jimmie and go back a long way with him. I think one of the greatest Jackson stories was the time Jack Higgs wrote in his monthly (Log or Splinter) "Who is the only First Classman living on the fourth deck, first wing who has a TV that Bonzo can't find". And the good Capt. never did! Jimmie's up there giggling at all of us. Ed McHale |
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From: Bo Strange Subject: JOHN JULES HOOTMAN is dead I deeply regret to report the death of our classmate Joco (24) on Monday 22 February, following a lengthy illness. Funeral services will be held at the Holy Angeles Catholic Church in Hayes, PA (southeast of Pittsburgh); the Mass will be at 10 AM Friday 26 Feb...initially a piper will play Amazing Grace. The prior viewing will be on Thursday evening from 7 to 9 PM at the L. Beinhauser & Son Funeral Home, 2828 Washington Road, Peters Township on Highway 19 South (McMurray area south of Pittsburgh). Classmates who are able to attend these ceremonies are especially welcome. Barbara can be reached at (724)xxx-xxxx and for a few days even her four sons and daughter (Mat, Jim, John, Nate and Laura.) ...my life is also a lot emptier now, Bo
Strange
(24) From: Betty Bedford Subject: Saying Goodbye to Joc Hootman I just spoke with Barbara Hootman and told her I would relay a message to all who knew Joc. She said she had asked friends to send a note of goodbye to Joc, to be placed in his casket. I told her I would contribute via e-mail and would ask all of you who so wished to do the same. She will collect all the notes tomorrow and place them in his casket. She has arranged for a bagpiper to play The Navy Hymn as Joc's procession enters the church for the Mass on Friday. Amazing Grace will be played during Mass, and Navy Blue and Gold at the recessional. Don't you just know John Jules Hootman will love that! Thank all of you for your heartfelt tributes. Sincerely, Betty Bedford From: Bob Freeman Subject: Re: JOHN JULES HOOTMAN is dead May your journey be pleasant, Joco.
From: "Jerry Nay" Subject: RE: JOHN JULES HOOTMAN is dead I am thankful for the life of Joco. He contributed a lot and will be missed. I am also so very thankful for our class List. I would not have know about Joco's problem. Thanks for the messages and telephone numbers conveyed. I believe Joco an I exchanged more words as a result than we probably did at the Academy. We had some quality time. May he go in Peace. Jerry From: "Bill Barlow" Subject: RE: JOHN JULES HOOTMAN is dead We are all saddened to learn of Joco's passing. He and I were roommates plebe year and the 24th Company's official "odd couple". We were the only pair assigned together having different language classes--he being Russian and me being la lingua Italiana. Our conversations made it clear that neither one of us was going to excel in any language! His previous naval experience and down-to-earth common sense in dealing with USNA's rigors and shoals are what got me through plebe year. He also taught me how to use a lot of rich naval vernacular expressions which helped me greatly through my career. I echo the deep regrets expressed by all who knew Joco. Bill Barlow From: George Lawniczak Subject: Hootman Joco was also my roommate for a year...what fond memories...including how to remove one's skivvy shirt by pulling the back over the top of one's head...in case the lower front had become "contaminated"... He reminded me in a recent conversation how I had loaned his brother a set of my blues so that he could dine with Joco...our association with CDR. Bradshaw (the dentist) and his daughters...the time he fixed me up with a county fair queen back in Michigan...ah, yes...there are many more...I echo Bill Barlow's thoughts and deep regrets. George Lawniczak (24) From: Tony Dopazo Subject: Till we meet again, JOCO I was saddened to receive news of Joco having passed on. From our meeting in prep school, NAPS, together again in the 24th, and beyond graduation, Joco was a very close classmate and dearest friend. He will be long remembered in many ways. Tony Dopazo From: "Chuck Henry" Subject: Re: Saying Goodbye to Joc Hootman For Jocko -- Jock and I were in the Drum and Bugle Corps together for four years, and while we didn't spend a lot of time together, we were well acquainted and enjoyed each other's company, and shared a lot of experiences tooting and banging drums. Jock, I look forward to meeting you again at that big Mother Bancroft in the sky, where we can once again get together, swap sea stories, and remember the "old days." May God be holding you in the palm of His hand! Your old D&B pal, Chuck Henry
(01) From: Robert Irons Subject: Goodbye, Jocko Hootman Classmates, and especially Jocko: It was a very great honor and pleasure to be among your friends. I want to say this goodbye, to join with my classmates. The 24th Company was so blessed by your presence. Your 100% positive outlook, no matter what the circumstance, no matter how badly you might be feeling, was something we will cherish always. This was evident right up to your last days. I especially treasure the moments of Midshipman Cruises and the many times we shared a table in the mess hall. We 'ran' a table together our first class year. It was my especial pleasure to share all those moments with you. And, I think we all have our favorite Hootman stories from the Middie Cruises. Take care, bon voyage, and we'll meet again up there in Bancroft in the Sky someday. In the meantime, keep everyone in Heaven cheered. Bob Irons (24) PS: Thanks to Bo Strange for keeping us
posted. From: Bo Strange Subject: Lasting Thoughts for Joco Hey roomie Joco... I know your going to a better place than where you came from and I only hope that I and your Shipmates will be blessed enough to join you and yours in the fullness of time. We all fondly think of you often. I especially cherish the memories we generated in our eventful midshipman days...as did you! So sorry it wasn't until recent times that our friendship was properly renewed. Your super memory and recall was a true gift that made our September weekend such a joyous event...and made it seem as if we had only graduated yesterday! God bless and rest in peace. ...eternally, Bo Strange From: Bruce Newell Subject: Joco Hootman What a great fight Joco put up! He was determined to beat this thing that was trying to defeat him. Theresa and I are out of the country and will be unable to join in the celebration of his life and memory on Friday. I know that Joco was at peace with the Lord when he died. Bruce Newell (19)
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My second tour to SEA was with the First Cav. Division. Departed Fort Benning with a division of grunts and one Army mule. Imagine my surprise at the first Forward Air Controller briefing when the Army unit C.O. I was with announced to me that he was married to my former flame of Hahn days. Managed to dump one helicopter On the ground but the C.O. insisted I had been shot down. Jim Dickinson, a thirsty-third company classmate, had the dubious pleasure of relieving me. In a weak moment upon returning to US, I suddenly discovered myself married! God! How did it happen? Then to Flight Instructor F4's Davis-Monthan AFB AZ, updating bomber and transport pilots into the fighter game. If they could get into the cockpit, I gave them a "satis". If they got to the gunnery range, they were ready for SEA. Then found myself in F-111's which we took to SEA (Takhli again) as a small squadron of McNamara's Edsels. We went from Harvest Reaper to Grim Reaper with a 50% aircraft attrition rate in three months with not a single loss to combat. Next discovered myself flying a desk at TAC Hdqtrs in Stand/Eval. (Those assignment people have no standards at all!) I never smiled once in the 18-month tour. Then back in F-111's in England to make NATO happy. Sitting Nuc Alert 10 days out of 14 sure beat a desk job. They made a mistake and made me Flt Cmdr. (Skip Burns `54 was D.O.) My flight became known as Les' Lepers. I was really pressed to try to move them from the left side of the page in fitness reports. Came a chance to volunteer a crew to go to SEA for the big Xmas bombing and I jumped the highest. Back to Takhli the third time and got some terrorizing experience night flying over Hanoi. Managed to bomb the Doumer bridge which had been down for two yers. It sure beat the truck dump target that we missed. My last stop again F-111's at MTN Home AFB ID. Col. Joe Clarkson was D.O. Col Don May was ADO. Major Les Holland was Flight Instructor and Fly- Fishing Advisor (All `55ers). I was consulted more than the other two (No Tellum Creek, No Tellum Lure.) The AF retired me in `77 and I celebrated my double coronary bypass in `81. It only slowed my racquetball game for six weeks. Photograph and biography from "Thirty Years Later" 1985 Leslie R. Holland Jr., Maj USAF (Ret) died at home of heart failure on May 13, 1999. He would have been 72 in July. He is survived by his wife, Carolyn. Tom Kiefaber email announcement Joe Clarkson writes: Thanks for the info on Les Holland. I was the 366th Tactical Fighter Wing DO (Deputy Commander for Operations, AirBoss or whatever folks can relate to) and Don May was the ADO when Les went into retirement after a permanent passover to LT COL. Many reasons - but - the most relevant was his refusal (as Tactical Air Command Stan Eval Resident F-111Combat Wizard) to "sign off" on politically correct explanations of why the new F-111 had to be recalled from Vietnam. Some points: Les was a turn back to our class, graduated and became a very good combat fighter pilot. Even more important he remains a living legend in the F-111 community for his combat missions over Vietnam when the name "Whispering Death" was enunciated by Hanoi, not us. Khadafi was to understand the same phenomena while asleep in the Libyan Desert (circa 1986) thanks in many ways to Les Holland and his pioneering efforts in conducting effective interdiction operations at night and bad weather. Desert Storm was the ultimate salute as F-111F's 2K# "smart bombs" were accurately implanted into Iraqi C3 and the Hussein family "impenetrable" bunkers etc.
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Upon graduation, I became a "port chopper" and first attended the Navy Supply Corps School at Athens, Georgia before being assigned to the USS BUSHNELL (AS-15) followed by a tour as Supply Officer on the USS DOUGLAS H. FOX (DD-779). On May 31, 1957, I married Carol Decker from Rogers, Arkansas, and we spent our first years at the USNA where I was a "steam prof." I then had a progression of supply assignments that took us to Port Lyautey, Morocco (where our son Gaylord was born). On to the University of Kansas where I received an MS in Petroleum Management; then to the Defense Fuel Supply Center; a tour as Sub-Area Petroleum Officer, Philippines (1966-68);and then to the Naval War College at Newport. I completed my Navy supply career with three years at the Naval Supply Center, Puget Sound; then to Japan for four years as Comptroller and as Executive Officer for NSD Yokosuka (1972-76); and in 1978 I retired after being the Director of Subsistence, Defense Personnel Support Center, Philadelphia. At this period of our lives my wife and I are taking advantage of the many opportunities Philadelphia offers while Gaylord completes his senior year at the University of Pennsylvania where he is majoring in Engineering-Computer Science. Philly is still a great liberty town and we know the spots; give us a call! Thirty Years Later - 1985 On September 15, 1999, Tom Kiefaber was notified: CAPT James R. Holder, c/o 1955 died on 7/26/99. His wife, Carol J. died on 9/13/99. They are to be inurned together in the columbarium. The date will be set later On September 23, 1999, the following was posted: There will be a Protestant Committal Service for CAPT James R. Holder, USN, c/o 1955, and his wife Carol Holder on Thursday, 28 October 1999 at 1300 at the columbarium. Simple Military Honors will be rendered.
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On Saturday, September 25, 1999 Bob Smith (16) emailed the following information to the class: For the information of all classmates, I just received a call from Addie O'Neil informing me that Dick O'Neil (12) passed away early this morning. I last talked to Addie on Tuesday (9/21) and she said at that time that Dick was back in Florida Hospital and not doing very well. As some may know, Dick had had a series of heart attacks and it is a tribute to his will-to-live that he survived them all. When Addie told me he was back in the hospital, she also said that the docs had informed her that his body functions were beginning to shut down and if he left the hospital it would probably be to an assisted living facility. Bob reports on the funeral service held on September 29, 1999 Maralynn and I attended the funeral service for Dick O'Neil (12) today. He was resplendent in dress blues and a large, blue and gold, floral tribute from the Class of '55 was prominent at the foot of his casket. His parish priest, who hailed from Boston like Dick, conducted the service and remarked at how well Dick handled the many medical challenges he faced in the later years of his life and how he was at peace with his situation because of his religious convictions. Whether or not he was at peace with his golf game is another story. We spoke briefly with his wife, Addie, both before and after the service.
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Sad News! At the Navy-AF game Hugh Seborg handed me a note that reads: "Marcy Lester Newell (18) died on Thursday 7 October '99 at Reno NV of aneurism/heart attack (very sudden)..." Email from Tom Kiefaber, October 11, 1999
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RICHARD WILLIAM ELLIS '55 Richard W. Ellis, of New London, NH, died on 21 January 2000, after a long illness, at the age of 70. He graduated from Newton High School, Dartmouth College, Class of 1951, and the Naval Academy, Class of 1955. Ellis taught at the Naval Academy
and had
assignments in BOSTON (CAG-1), WALDRON (DD-699), JASON (AR-8), London,
England (NavActs He was a long-standirig member and lay leader at All Saints Church in Peterborough, NH, and at St Andrew's Episcopal Church in New London, NH. Ellis is survived by his wife of 45 years, Barbara Randall Ellis of New London, CT; daughter, Pamela Averell of Goffstown, NH; two granddaughters; and a sister, Charlotte Fowler of Northport, NY. He was predeceased by a daughter, Kimberly Arm Ellis, in 1992. Shipmate "Last Call" May 2000
ELLIS, RICHARD J., CDR, USN Following graduation from USNA and the Supply
Corps
School
in Athens, Georgia, I was initially assigned to duty in USS BOSTON
(CAGI)
as Disbursing Biography from "Fifteen Years Later" 1970
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The following was sent to the class LISTSERV: Here is a link to a news article on the killers of Rory Dickens. The Internet continues to amaze me. 2 teenagers arrested in teacher's slaying 06/27/00 (This link is to the Florida Times-Union and is still working as of 4/2001.) I have copied below email sent to me by Mr. John Cash in hopes that someone out there will have a suggestion to help him. Of course, this also follows up on the earlier email on the listserv about Rory Dickens' death. Norm (24) ******* original message ************ Dear Mr. Palladino, Rory Dickens, USNA '55 was murdered in his home in Jacksonville, Fla on or about June 7, 2000. Fortunately, his killers have been apprehended. I am considering doing a memorial piece on Mr. Dickens, a much beloved teacher in Jacksonville, the recipient of the Presidential Citation for Teaching Excellence. I am looking for someone who knew Rory Dickens well during his Annapolis days or his years in the Navy. I found your name via a website search in which there was a photo of you along with Rory Dickens in your service uniforms and your website.. Thank you for any assistance that you can render in this regard and feel free to pass my email address to anyone you think may be helpful in this regard. It is a tragic irony when a man who devoted
most of his
adult life to Over his teaching career Rory Dickens steered at least 16 students to the Naval Academy, two of whom went on to flag rank. Sincerely, John Cash Norm, You do great work being our webmaster gouru! Thank you for the info on Dickens. Our class should honor him at the Sunday Memorial Service at the Chapel. Tom(07) Can anyone in the class get in touch with some of us who knew Rory Dickens & let John Cash make contact with them? Tom(07) ----Original Message Follows---- Dear Tom, Thanks for your message. Just to update you on the current status of the case. Rory Dickens' killers have both been charged with capital murder. The elder of the killers, Syvio Parent, 18, faces the death penalty. Given Florida's low tolerance for capital murder it will, in all likelihood, not be pled down to a lesser charge or penalty. The other killer, Gene Hughes, 13, has been bound over to adult court and charged with capital murder as well. However, under Florida law he cannot be executed for a murder that he committed under the age of 16..the maximum penalty is life imprisonment. Given the heinous nature of the murder that too is entirely possible. I am considering writing a memorial piece about Rory Dickens and have corresponded with many of his ex-students. The more people I have spoken to the more remarkable Rory Dickens' achievements as a teacher become apparent. One of his former students is an USNA '74 graduate, NPS grad and director of Fusion and Superconducting Research at Oak Ridge National Laboratories. He attributes his focus on nuclear physics directly to Rory Dickens' early mentoring. In order to complete the effort I need to find somebody who knew Rory Dickens well either at Annapolis or during his navy days post graduation. I know he went to flight school and was in an A-4 squadron for a few years prior to resigning and entering the Naval Air Reserve. Beyond that I am pretty much stumped. Do you know of anyone who knew Mr. Dickens well during either of those two periods? Any assistance you can offer is greatly appreciated. Best, ********** tom boucher wrote:
************************* Thanks for the report that Norm passed on to our class I'm sure we will honor him at our upcoming 45th reunion the weekend of 26-28 Oct. 2000. Would like to know more particulars as they develop. Hope they hang'em high! Tom Boucher '55 ******************* an article updating the story
************** Story last updated at 12:56 a.m. on Tuesday, June 13, 2000 Former teacher at Forrest High slain in his home
A former Forrest High School teacher of the year was found slain last week in his Jacksonville home by a friend checking on him after not hearing from the teacher for several days. Roderick Dickens, 67, was found about 11 p.m. Friday in his home at 7212 Eudine Drive N. on the Westside. Police aren't releasing how he was killed but said he had been dead two or three days. Police also wouldn't say where his body was discovered or under what conditions, nor would they identify the person who found the teacher. The slaying is under investigation. Dickens, known by students and faculty as Mr. Physics, taught physics at the school for 37 years before retiring in 1998. He first walked through the doors of Forrest High School in uniform after graduating from the U.S. Naval Academy. Billy Parker, the school's principal at the time, said Dickens told him he wanted to be a teacher when he got out of the service. Parker, now a Duval County School Board member, told the young man to come back, and if he had an opening, Dickens had a job. The principal couldn't believe the young jet fighter pilot wanted to give up his commander rank. But Dickens came back in 1961 and stayed until retirement. "He was the finest teacher that God ever put in the science department," Parker said. "He did so many things for so many children. I have never, ever had a better teacher more dedicated to children and schools." Throughout his career, Dickens was honored with numerous national and local teaching awards, including being one of five teachers nationwide to receive the innovative teaching in physics award in 1971. Dickens also was named Duval Teacher of the Year in 1984, given the Presidential Award for Excellence in the Teaching of Science and named a runner-up for the Florida Teacher of the Year in 1987. Then, in 1990, he was inducted into the Duval County Teacher's Hall of Fame. His success wasn't just recognized in the awards he won, but the students he mentored and who still come back to visit 30 years later, colleagues said. Janice Lamb, chairman of the school's science department, worked with Dickens from the beginning of his teaching career. The science department excelled in getting students interested in science and encouraging junior high schools to give them prep classes before they entered high school, she said. "I wouldn't have been able to have all the wonderful things that havehappened to me without his support," Lamb said. "He was a very loyal friend." School officials wouldn't release a
photograph of Dickens.
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For all hands, I regret to inform you that classmate Charlie Zadd died on Saturday August 26, 2000 after a long illness(colon cancer). He will be buried with full military honors at Arlington Cemetary on Tuesday, September 12. A memorial service will be held in the Fort Myer old chapel at 1045, followed by graveside ceremonies and a gathering afterward at the Officer's Club. The Class will send flowers. With sorrow, I know all have been advised of Zany Zadd's death. Those who knew him may like to know that his wife Sheila is now on-line. Our best to all, Funeral and burial attended by a modest number of classmates. Shiela seems to be doing fine. Those who knew Charlie will miss him. Denny Obituary -
Charles Zadd '55 On Saturday, Aug. 26, 2000, retired U.S. Navy
Cmdr.
Charles J. Zadd of He was born Oct. 25, 1930 in New York City. He graduated from the United States Naval Academy, Class of 1955, and also received his MBA from Pepperdine University while serving in the Navy. His service on various ships and submarines culminated in his command of the USS Tusk in 1969. He retired from the Navy as commander in 1977 and, afterward, worked in the private sector in Northern Virginia with Tracore and DDL, working with the Trident Missile Program, retiring in 1990. He is survived by his devoted wife of 44
years, Nora
Sheila; his three A Mass of Christian burial will celebrate his
life at
10:45 a.m. Tuesday, In lieu of flowers, his grandchildren, Meredith and Charlie, have requested that memorial donations be made in his memory to the Children's Hospital of The King's Daughters, P.O. Box 2156, Norfolk, VA 23501. from The Virginian-Pilot (Norfolk,
VA) ZADD, CHARLES JOSEPH, (formerly Zadarozny),
(CDR, USN,
878
Norman Drive, Gales Ferry, Conn. 06335 Qualified in submarines Aug.1958. 1955-57 DD785. 1958 SUBSCOL. 1958-60 SS352. 1960 SS324. 1961-64 SSBN 611. 1964-66 SUBSCOL. 1966-67 55342. 1967-69 BUPERS. 1969-present C.O. USSTUSK (SS-426). Hobbies: tennis, fishing, marksman, bridge player, refinish antique furniture, coin collector. Children: Sheila Ann, born 21 Nov.1958; Patrick, born 14 Oct. 1960; Laurie, born 1 Mar.1962. Wife: Nora Sheila Zadd (Hegarty). Biography and photo from "Fifteen Years
Later" 1970
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RONALD CORNELL KUCERA '55
He was born on 12 November 1932 in Loup City, NE. He served in the U.S. Navy from June 1955 until August 1985, retiring with the rank of captain. His awards included the Bronze Star Metal with Combat V, and National Defense Service Medal with Bronze Star. He retired from U.S. Navy Marine Corps Reserve Center. Captain Kucera is survived by his wife, Alicia Salazar Kucera; son Richard S. Kucera; daughter, Anita S. Kucera; brother, Richard T. Kucera (Betty) and their children, Idaire Kucera and Dane Kucera. Services were held at Holy Spirit Catholic Church, in Tempe, AZ, with interment at Holy Redeemer Cemetery in Phoenix, AZ. Memorials in memory of Ronald C. Kucera may be made, to Church of the Holy Spirit Building Fund, 1800 E. Libra Drive, Tempe, AZ 85283. Shipmate "Last Call" December 2000
I deeply regret to inform you that our
classmate Ronald
Cornell Kucera, Ron was diagnosed with brain, lung and liver
cancer
several months ago. 1106 E. Magdalena Drive With deep regrets on the passing of a dear classmate and friend, Pat & Guy Grafius
Ron Kucera's son Rick just notified me that
he will keep
Ron's email Pat & Guy Grafius
KUCERA, RONALD C. CDR, USN, 2960 Bonita Mesa Rd., Bonita, Calif.
1955-57 USS Chevalier (DDR-805). 1958-60
Beach Jumper
Unit
Two. The fifteen years since graduation have provided for a great deal of "seeing the world". A leave spent in Mexico sparked an interest in Latin America and in 1958 I was fortunate enough to marry the former Senorita Alicia Salazar Ortega of Taxco, Mexico. We have two children, Anita (11) and Richard (9). After decommissioning the Wadleigh, I turned it over to the Chilean Navy and, with my family, set off for a tour on a Yokosuka-based ship. Probably, my most interesting assignments were a year in Buenos Aires, Argentina, as Assistant Naval Attache' and two years in Asuncion, Paraquay organizing and heading up the new Navy Section of the U.S. Military Group there. Alicia and the children are at our home in Bonita, California, and I am now living in my fourth "exotic foreign land" - Vietnam. We find that this tour is somewhat lacking in togetherness. Biography and photo from "Fifteen Years
Later" 1970
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FRANCIS JOSEPH FARINO '55
A 32-year resident of Virginia Beach, Captain Farino was born and raised in Holley, NY. He graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy with the Class of 1955 and earned a master's degree from The George Washington University. His first ship was the destroyer Gatling (DD671). Captain Farino then entered submarine school and spent the majority of his naval career serving onboard submarines Irex (SS-482), Bang (SS-385), Picuda (SS-382), and Thomas Edison (SSBN-610). Captain Farino commanded the submarine Odax (SS-484). He served as an instructor at submarine school and on the staffs of CinCLant and ComSubLant. He commanded the Armed Forces Statf College in Norfolk, VA, prior to retirement from the Navy. During his naval career, he was awarded the Defense Superior Service Medal, Meritorious Service Medal, Joint Service Commendation Medal with one star, Navy Unit Commendation, and the National Defense Medal with one star. Following retirement from the Navy, after 28 years of service, he was project manager with the Jonathan Corporation in Norfolk for 12 years. He was a certified mediator through the Supreme Court of Virginia for the past five years for both general and family mediation. Captain Farino was a member of the U.S. Naval Academy Alunmi Association, The Naval Submarine League, the American Legion, and a member of St. Nicholas Catholic Church in Virginia Beach. He was on the board of trustees for the Dispute Settlement Center in Norfolk as well as a mediation mentor through the Virginia Supreme Court. He is survived by his wife of 45 years, Gwen Preston Farino; two daughters and their husbands, Carol and Wayne Wright and Linda and John Conner of Virginia Beach, VA; three sons and their wives, Dale and Julie Farino of Virginia Beach, VA, Mark and Lindsay Farino of Portola Valley, CA, and Douglas and Diane Farino of Virginia Beach, VA; 11 grandchildren, Todd Wright, Tucker Conner, Kristan Farino, Courtney Farino, Will Farino, Holly Farino, Wyatt Farino, Joseph Farino, Elizabeth Conner, Kendall Farino, and Julia Farino; two Sisters, Judy Emanuele and Rena Farino of Holley, NY; one brother, Lee Farino of Blackwood, NJ; as well as a host of other family members and special friends. A Mass of the Resurrection was held at St. Nicholas Catholic Church in Virginia Beach, VA, on Thursday, 25 January 2001. A chapel service was conducted on 7 February 2001, at Fort Myers Chapel at Arlington National Cemetery, followed by burial with full military honors. Memorial donations may be made to the American Cancer Society, 2730 Ellsmere Avenue, Norfolk, VA 23513. from "Last Call" in April 2001 Shipmate
It is my sad duty to report that we lost our
very close
friend and classmate, As many of you learned at our 40th reunion
this past
fall,
Frank had only For area classmates, there will be visitation
at the H.D.
Oliver Funeral Home A funeral mass will be held on Thursday,
January 25 at
2:00pm with a Internment at Arlington National Cemetary is
planned for
a
later date; this Pat Taylor Dear Pat, all - thank you for sharing this sad news! It was great seeing Frank and Gwen at the
reunion - and
had no idea this was Pete and I both thought the world of Frank
and Gwen - and
now guess those Had a moment with him at the reunion and wish
I had spent
more time as his We just thank the Lord for bringing Frank into our lives Blessings I will remember him at Mass tomorrow night
during
Adoration To my Classmates, Having just read Pat Taylor's email a short while ago sadly notifying us of the today's death of Frank Farino following his relapse and pneumonia this past week... and Margot Blair's blessed and compassionate response... I have been sitting here for a long while thinking of my good fortune of having known him these many years. Re-reading his entry in our 30 Years After Book reminded me of... Our times as midshipmen in sports, on liberty, and on cruise... Being shipmates in the USS Bang (SS-385) and those adventures at sea and ashore... Getting to know his wonderful bride, Gwen, and the start of their family in Gales Ferry ... Taking over as Engineering Officer from Frank as he went off to the Polaris Program... Following the rest of their exciting career from afar, as mine took me to DC and West... Great occasions of seeing Frank and Gwen at our semi-decade Class Reunions... ....and most recently at the 45th this Fall. While we were sitting at the Monument in front of Mahan Hall waiting for the Class Meeting to begin Gwen and Frank suddenly appeared. After our joyful greeting Gwen asked if we knew of a location nearby where the bus back to the Hotel stopped because Frank had overdone walking and needed to rest. One look at his exhaustion and the desperation in her face sent me running for my car at the Alumni Hall parking lot... no time for the bus! We got him back to the Hotel and forgot about the Class Meeting. It was only because of that incident that we learned from Gwen of the medical trauma Frank had so recently gone through. I could not believe it... and the courage and determination he had to attend the Reunion... to see all of his Classmates. He must have known that it could very well be his farewell to us. Just before Christmas I got a strong urge to
call Frank
and Gwen to ask how he was doing. I told him how very much we
had
enjoyed seeing them at the reunion but that we were still concerned due
to his exhaustion incident. Well he was really feeling terrific! I also
told him of our New Millennium Adventure this Spring of moving back to
Wintergreen, VA, after 30 years in California to be almost a neighbor.
He was quite excited for us and told me since having a boat now docked
in front of their home in Virginia Beach that we must stay
with I also thank God for being YOUR classmate... ALL of you out there in '55. It is a Blessed and Eternal Brotherhood... and I find that Frank's sudden departure is as hard as losing one of my very own brothers. Of course, as Margot so wonderfully reminds us, Frank is now joining our other Brothers... Pete, Charlie Z, Don, Goeff, Eddie... and the rest of Our Departed '55ers... for the Grandest Reunion of ALL! My deepest sympathy, compassion, sincerest love, spiritual blessing and support to Gwen and all of the Farino family members. My deepest reverence and gratitude to God for putting Frank in my Life. I cherish his enduring gift of 50 years of
friendship. Warm Regards, Dan Butterfield I have just read Pat Taylor's report of the loss of our classmate and friend, Frank Farino. I too feel as though I have lost someone very close. He was a special person. Reunions were the times to bring each other up to date. He was always a smile and a hug away, and made you feel like you were his best friend. We were blessed to spend a lot of time with Frank and Gwen at our 45th Reunion. The pictures were shared, and I shall always cherish the warm phone conversation in November. Gloria and I are deeply saddened by his passing and send our sincere love and sympathy to Gwen and their children. Ray Lunnen The outpouring of expressions and fond
remembrances for
our classmate Frank have been heartfelt and will be passed to and
appreciated by Gwen and his Burial services will be at Arlington National Cemetery on Wednesday, February 7, 2001, following the 12:45 PM church service at the Fort Meyer Chapel. Pat Pogo and I were classmates in the 10th Company. He was probably the sweetest man I know. But, he and I shared a neat little secret. My Mother used to send me "Care" packages about once a month. Invariably these packages would include a large box of peanut butter cookies. By the time I would get back to the room from class the whole Company had the word; "Stevens goodies are here." A predictable procession of Company-mates would appear at the door and the drill was to share with any and all. The cookies were delicious but they were very fragile. The U.S. Postal Service saw to it that only about half the cookies were left intact, the remainder having disintegrated into a crumbly mass. Pogo and I would watch the whole cookies disappear in a jiffy. Then, when the coast was clear, we'd split the huge pile of crumbs, pull out our spoons and enjoy a splendid repast. Frank, my friend, I like to think that
wherever you are
you've got an Bill Stevens (10) Gang, Just a reminder -- The funeral for Frank
Farino is at
1245
Wednesday, Feb 7 The family will host a reception following
the ceremony
at
the Officers' Club Mal MacKinnon (14) FARINO, FRANK J., CDR, USN, 1416 Lenevar Drive, Charleston, South Carolina 29407 1955-57 USS Gatling (DD-671). 1957 Submarine
School.
1958-59 Graduation day was also my wedding day to a
beautiful
girl
that I have known since high school - Gwen Aileen Preston. We have five
bright and healthy children, Carol (13), Linda (11), Dale (10), Mark
(9) and My Naval tour of duty has been in submarines except for an intial two year tour in destroyers. I have crossed the equator, operated in the Norwegian Sea, conducted submerged OPS beneath the ice and made seven Mediterranean deployments - the last being in 1969 as Commanding Officer of the submarine USS Odax (SS-484). Attended the U.S. Naval Guided Missile School prior to reporting aboard the nuclear fleet ballistic submarine USS Thomas A. Edison (SSGN-610). Polaris training afforded me an opportunity to serve an interesting and challenging tour in CINCLANT Staff. I play squash as much as I can trying to stay in shape. Also taking an active interest in the boy's scouting programs and little league baseball and football. Gwen keeps busy in the service wives clubs - just completed a year as President of the Charleston Naval Officers Wives Club - and is taking on a new interest - art lessons. Biography from "Fifteen Years Later" 1970
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WAYNE KIMBALL SHANAHAN '55
Shanny was reared in western Montana where he developed a strong interest in the outdoors and mountains. Soon after graduation from Whitefish High School, Montana, he joined the Navy. He entered the Academy with the Class of 1955 from a fleet appointment. He was a member of the 13th Company, "Fighting Beavers." Shanny was commissioned a second lieutenant in the U.S. Air Force following graduation. He won his wings in August 1956 and was assigned to flying C-124s, "Old Shakey," for the Military Air Transport Command (MATS), Dover AFB, DE. It was at Dover that he met his bride to be, Margaret. They were married in June 1958. After completing a tour at Hickam AFB, Hawaii, Shanny returned to academia at Stanford University where he received a master's degree in industrial engineering. He then joined Air Force System Command in both accepting and installing ballistic missiles in silos. Shanny was then assigned to Southeast Asia where he flew the C- 130. He was instrumental in setting up the C-130 airlift resupply during the battle of Khe San and airlifting Special Forces troops to and from remote airfields. Following duty in Southeast Asia Shanny was assigned to the Ryan Co., San Diego, CA, and subsequently to Wright-Patterson AFB, OH, where his combat and technical talents were applied to the development of advanced sensors. These efforts would payoff years later with the introduction of precision strike weapons during Desert Storm and Kosovo. Shanny elected to retire from the Air Force after 20 years and return to western Montana. He built a home on Whitefish Mountain, a famous western ski resort, that he aptly named "Paradise." Shanny left Montana in 1998 and settled in Tucson, AZ. It was there that his health began to deteriorate. Shanny will be remembered by his Navy classmates and Air Force comrades as an easygoing guy always willing to share stories about his beloved mountains and flying exploits. His ex-wife, Margaret; daughter, Mary; son, Tom; brother, Bill; and sister, Pat, survive him. The family has asked those who wish to remember Shanny to contribute to the USAF Memorial. P "Peet" W. Odgers '55 from "Last Call" in April 2001 Shipmate
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 LORING PARKER DRESEL ‘55Loring P. Dresel passed away quickly of a heart attack on Monday, 26 March 2001 while at his vacation home near Leonie, FL, where he was interred. He was 70 years old. He was horn on 19 July 1930 in Sonoma, CA, the son of Otto and Helen Dresel. He enlisted in the U.S. Navy following high school graduation. During his enlistment, he successfully competed for a fleet appointment to the U.S. Naval Academy which he entered in 1951 following completion of the Naval Academy Preparatory School (NAPS) in Newport. RI. Upon graduation and commissioning in 1955, he was assigned to the destroyer DeHaven, homeported in San Diego. CA, on which he made several WestPac deployments. He then attended the Naval Postgraduate School’s mechanical engineering curriculum and, upon completion, was assigned to a repair ship out of Norfolk, VA. After a period of service on that ship, he left the Navy and settled in Charleston, then later Walterboro, SC. He was involved in various pursuits until joining the Charleston Navy Shipyard in Charleston, SC. While at the shipyard, he served as a planner, systems engineer, and environmental engineer. Loring retired from the shipyard in 1992. In addition, he continued his military service as an officer in the South Carolina National Guard, from which he also retired in 1992. In addition to professional organizations related to his shipyard career, he was a member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars and the U.S. Naval Academy Alumni Association. Drese, as he was know by his many Navy friends, was a gentle and kind man who, despite many difficult times in his life, maintained his pleasant and self-effacing way, quiet humor and down to earth values. Drese’s faith and deep Christian beliefs sustained him throughout his life. He will be deeply missed. He is survived by Anita, his wife of 18 years; his 90-year-old mother, Helen; sons, Jack Dresel and Ricky Dresel from a previous marriage, stepchildren, Ira Richer, Michael Richer, Robert Richer and Carol MacDonald; and two grandchildren. Anthony A. Hastoglis ‘55
USNA Shipmate "LAST CALL" |
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Mrs. Wildman stopped by and told us that her husband died on 11 February 2001. She is uncertain whether she would like an obituary in Shipmate and is "thinking about it." Timothy Elizabeth Woodbury USNA Alumni Association |
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From: Carl Strang Our classmate Gene died early Saturday
morning in
Jacksonville. Carl Strang (16)
From: Haroldwnelson It was with a great deal of sadness that I
read of Gene's
death. Just a few Heap (16)
Date: Sat, 05 May 2001 Heap, It is difficult to add to your heartfelt
comments so I
can
only second them and Thanks,
Date: Sun, 06 May 2001 Gene Crosby
roomed with Carl Strang,
Tom Cann and me first class Through all
this madness, Gene was the
Rock of our Gibraltar, calm, Gene had
served as a Navy enlisted man
(I believe) and was a couple Going into the
Air Force was something
that gave Biddy an air of The four of us
roommates got together
at the 40th and had our We lost a
treasured classmate, but as
Heap also said, he has a place God bless one and all and especially the Crosby family. John USNA55 LISTSERVE Messages |
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Classmates, After returning from an RV trip through South Africa, I was unable to get on the USNA web for some reason, so I'm just now catching up-this may be old news. We were RV'ing through Colorado when I stopped to look up a Navy friend; he advised me that Paul Hoff (10th Co.) just passed away of a sudden heart attack while talking on the phone at the Denver Airport. The three of us shared a snake ranch in Virginia Beach in 1957-1958, when Paul was in VF41 flying F3H Demons, I was in VA-76 flying F9F's. Paul left the Navy shortly thereafter and was an investment counselor. I had kept in touch with him through Christmas Cards through the years. His widow, Eula Hoff, 38 E. Long Road, Greenwood Village, CO., 80124-1914. Best regards, Bob Boyd I was shocked to hear about Paul's passing from Bob Boyd. Paul was in the 11th Co. and went to Pensacola after graduation. I met him again when he embarked on the USS Independence (CVA-62) shortly after she was commissioned in 1959. Paul was with VF-41, and we cruised to GTMO. He was always the entrepreneur and used his pull as squadron maintenance officer to ship back selected orders of goodies (I think I ordered Black Label) in shipping crates (aircraft parts) for pickup in Oceana. I think he then was selected to an exchange tour with the USAF at Madison, WI to fly their century series hot rods. After that it was Harvard Business School and a fortune brokering ranchland in Colorado. He and his family were among the first to fly on the Concorde on its maiden trip. I remember he managed to get around the world on "Space A" flights and brought me back a souvenir from Kashmir. He was quite a guy and a remarkable achiever. Fred Schoenberger From Shipmate Class Notes September 2001: Angelo "Chick" Cicolani sadly reports that Paul M. Hoff Jr. (11) died suddenly on 13 June of a heart attack while on a business trip to New York City. His remains will be scattered in the Big Horn Mountains of Wyoming. Eula, his wife of 37 years, can be reached at: 3800 E. Long Road, Greenwood Village, CO 80121-1914. A few of Chick’s recollections are:
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Commander Charles Andrew Tarver, Jr. '55
He was born in Perry, FL, in March 1932 and grew up in Palatka, FL. He graduated from the Naval Academy in 1955. In June 1956, he married Ginny Miller of Salem, VA. He served in the Navy for 20 years on various ships. He was director of the IT School in Norfolk, VA, and was attached to the Schools Command. He always loved the sea starting as sailing master for FREEDOM at the Academy. After retiring from the Navy, he joined the Merchant Marine service. He earned a license as chief mate and master for all ships, all tonnage. He sailed for Energy Transportation Corporation for the last 20 years on their LNG ships. They carried liquid natural gas from Indonesia to Japan. He retired in 1998 as master of SS LNG ARIES. Chuck was an avid outdoorsman, loved hunting and fishing. He spent many happy days fishing for salmon on Lake Ontario. When not fishing, he was always on the computer emailing family and friends. He is remembered for his many stories and jokes. No matter what job he held, he commanded respect. Not by asking or demanding such treatment. He earned it by his actions and how he carried himself in the performance of his duties. He is survived by his wife of 45 years, Ginny. Chuck also leaves behind two sons, Charles III of Norfolk, VA, and Robert of Fremont, CA; three daughters, Marguerite Bousman of Virginia Beach, VA, Elizabeth Quitter of Templeton, CA, and Virginia Blaha of San Antonio, TX; and seven grandchildren. Virginia Tarver from Shipmate "Last Call" We just lost Chuck Tarver (23) to cancer this week. Lieutenant Commander Charles Andrew Tarver USN (Ret) died October 21, 2001 here in Virginia Beach, VA. Chuck spent a second career as a Master in the Merchant Marine navy, sailing many years as skipper of the Aries. He is survived by his wife, Virginia Miller Tarver, three daughters, two sons, seven grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. For classmates in the Hampton Roads area- a funeral service will be held this evening, Thursday, 25 October at 7PM at St. Nicholas Catholic Church, Virginia Beach. Family is receiving friends at the church one hour before the service. Burial will be in Princess Anne Memorial Park. Memorial Donations may be made to the American Cancer Society. Pat Taylor Thanks for the info, Pat. Chuck was a good person and a dear friend. Len Duffy |
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Its my sad duty to report that Keith Nyhus (15) died on Dec 7 of a malignant brain tumor. No other details available at this time. His wife Nancy can be reached at (218) 732-1959, nyhus@webtv.net. Tom Kiefaber From Shipmate Class Notes April 2002: Keith Nyhus (15), died of a brain tumor on 7 December 2001 in Park Rapids, MN. After graduation he spent four years as a lieutenant junior grade and then lieutenant with the Fleet in the Western Pacific aboard GEORGE CLYMER. After leaving the Navy in 1959, Keith attended Mankato State University for one year and then worked on the computer guidance systems for the Polaris and Poseidon missiles as an employee of General Electric and the Control Data Corporation. Keith taught electronic technology at Southwest State College in Marshall. He discovered he had a talent for design, ended his teaching career, and he and his wife, Nancy, started Nyhus Woodcrafts. They sold their prize-winning fine-art wood sculptures at art shows across the Midwest and to collectors worldwide. Keith is survived by his wife, Nancy, and their children, Paul and Joan Nyhus of Roberts, WI, and their daughters, Greta and Sara; Karin Nyhus and Dan Halsey of Woodbury, MN, and their son, Bryson; and Julie Nyhus of Columbus, OH. Nancy resides at: 14158 Eagleridge Cir., Park Rapids, MN 56470; 218-732-1959. |
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 Captain
John B. Streit, USN (Ret.), died peacefully in his home in Virginia
Beach, VA, on 25 January 2002.Born in Ralls, TX, on 3 January 1933, Captain Streit was designated a naval aviator following his graduation from the Naval Academy with the Class of 1955. He also graduated from the Naval Postgraduate School, majoring in physics, and from the U.S. Naval War College. During his 28 year career in the Navy he flew in VA-25,65,216 (admin), 147 (operations), 122 (XO) and 113 (XO/CO). He served aboard INTREPID, HANCOCK, MIDWAY, SARATOGA, and RANGER, flying more than 3,500 hours in the A1, A4, A6, A7, and F4, and accumulating 750 carrier landings. He also served as technical liaison officer for the Defense Atomic Support Agency in Albuquerque, NM; A7-E project officer in VA-122; project officer in the Navy Space Projects Office; Commander of Carrier Air Wing Five (CVW-5); logistics officer at CinCLantFlt and commander of the Nuclear Weapons Training Group Atlantic. Naval aviation was his passion. He distinguished himself as a pilot in the first A-7 squadron to deploy to Vietnam, and as executive officer and commanding officer of the first A-7 squadron to deploy to the Mediterranean. That squadron became the first winner of the C. Wade McClusky award. He also earned the Bronze Star, Air Medal, Joint Services Commendation and several Navy Commendation medals among other honors. He flew 167 combat missions, with distinction, in Vietnam. Subsequent to his Navy career, Captain Streit taught AP chemistry and physics at Princess Anne High School in Virginia Beach, where he retired and enjoyed the company of his family. He had married his hometown sweetheart, "Dolly" Barton. She survives him, along with their children, Kim, Bart, Doug, Stephanie and Greg; and ten grandchildren. He was predeceased by his son, Steven. He was buried at Arlington National Cemetery with full military honors on 19 February 2002. A memorial stone in his honor resides at Buff's Garden in Virginia Beach at 47th Street and Ocean Front Avenue. He "slipped the surly bonds of earth... and touched the face of God." -High Flight, by John Gillespie Magee Jr. J. Douglas Streit '83 & the Streit Family Shipmate Last Call, April 2002 From Class LISTSERV:
Dorothy Streit Tom Kiefaber Funeral Plans: There will be a Full Honors interment at Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, VA with the religious service at Fort Myer Chapel. The service will start at 0845 on 19 Feb 02. The funeral home scheduling the service is as follows: Holloman-Brown Tom Kiefaber From Shipmate Class Notes April 2002 : CAPT John "Brent" Streit, USN (Ret.) (10), died on 25 January, at his residence in Virginia Beach, VA. Naval aviation was his passion. He distinguished himself as a pilot in the first A-7 squadron to deploy to Vietnam, and as the executive officer and later commanding officer of the first A-7 squadron to deploy to the Mediterranean. That squadron was the first winner of the C. Wade McClusky award. He flew 167 combat missions, with distinction, in Vietnam. Brent is survived by his wife, Dorothy "Dolly," and by five children, Kimberly A. Carlton and her husband, Russ; James B. "Bart" Streit and his wife, Cathy; J. Douglas Streit and his wife, Alix; Stephanie M. Cunningham and her husband, P.J.; and Gregory B. Streit. Dolly resides at: 2209 Tanglewood Trail, Virginia Beach, VA 23454; 757-481-5057. Ed "Seabreeze" McHale writes: Thanks for the info on Brent. He was a sweet guy. We were in VA-122 at Lemoore together when he was training up as a Plankowner in VA-147—the first A-7 squadron. That was in late ’67, early ’68. I’m sure he flew more that 100 missions in the SAM environment of NVN. Sorry to lose him. Please give my best to his wife. New subj.: I’m off tomorrow for Honolulu and a week of baby sitting on the North Shore. Then Celina and I launch for a month of New Zealand followed by another week of baby-sitting. Then my son’s family come to the Mainland and we all do a week of skiing at Mammoth. Of course then we do income taxes to see if we can afford to do anything else. My very best to all! |
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I regret to inform of the death of Raymond G. Lyden (14) at the Lahey Clinic in Burlington, MA, on 24 February 2002, following a long illness. He was in a serious automobile accident in 1965, sustaining major injuries, which resulted in his being awarded full disability from the U.S. Air Force. As a result, Ray was infirmed basically for the rest of his life. He was predeceased by his wife, Jacqueline. A funeral mass was held on 28 February at Our Lady of Miraculous Medal in Hampton, NH. Ray was a jet-fighter pilot and was named in the first group selected by NASA for the astronaut program. However, he elected to continue his education and attended George Washington University, Ohio University, and the University of Dayton where he received a master of science degree in advanced mathematics. While at the Wright Patterson Air Base, he received a Presidential Citation for work on Interplanetary Communications from President John F. Kennedy. Ray also enjoyed courses in languages and spoke French, German, Russian, Italian, and Spanish, fluently. Tom Kiefaber Shipmate Class Notes, May 2002 |
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Walter Herman Schulze II (2), of Glenview, IL, who continued a family legacy as part of the Schulze & Burch Biscuit Co. of Chicago, died of cancer on Friday, 1 June, in the Cleveland Clinic Hospital in Ft. Lauderdale, FL. Walt served in the Navy for four years before returning home to help continue the successful family business in Comiskey Park since 1939 (the company introduced the Saltine cracker and also makes the Toast’em pastry brand). In 1980, he started a commercial finance firm, Schulze & Associates, which initially provided asset based loans and equity funding for start-up companies. The company began financing feature-length films and videos in 1991. Schulze is survived by his wife of 40 years, Leona Kenders Schulze; a brother, Paul Schulze III; three daughters, Laura Campbell, Rev. Constance Rose, and Paula DeLaughter; and a son, Walter H. Schulze III. Tom Kiefaber |
David M. Stembel
Jr., Captain USN (retired), a native of
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, died of complications of Crohn's disease 10
July 1995 at Holy Cross Hospital in Silver Spring, Maryland. 
Geoffrey Leland
Gardner, 64, a retired captain in the Naval
Reserve who had operated his own business-process reengineering
concern, The Geoff Gardner Group, in Arlington since 1995, died of
cancer Jan. 16 at his home in Arlington. 
Donall
G. Bourke, 65, died of cancer on February 28, 1998
at his home in Prescott, AZ. He became ill in the summer of '97 with
metastatic cancer of colon and liver which he fought courageously until
death came
suddenly of cardiac arrest due to kidney failure. 
Commander
Edmund Lewis Turner, USN (Ret.), died of
cancer
on 28 March 1998, after a protracted illness. Eddie was born in
Baltimore,
MD and lived for most of his life in Wardour, MD, a suburb of
Annapolis.
He attended the Severn School, in Severna Park. MD, where he was an
outstanding
athlete and leader, placing on all-state teams in football, lacrosse
and
wrestling, and earning a place in the Severn Athletic Hall of Fame.
Following
graduation from Severn in 1950, he was caught up in the Korean War
mobilization
as part of a Reserve unit in the U.S. Marine Corps. He spent a year in
the
Marines, and entered the Naval Academy in July 1951, as a member of the
Class
of 1955. 
Upon graduation from the U.S.
Naval
Academy in 1955 Harry was assigned to the USS BLUE (DD 744). In 1958 he
was
assigned to the Weapons Department of the USS OBSERVATION ISLAND (AG
154),
and while serving as launcher operations officer, participated in the
first
at-sea launching of a Polaris Missile. 
Douglas Alan Worth of
Darien, CT, died on 20 July at his
home, of intestinal cancer. He was 64 years old. Born in Norwalk, CT,
he
was the son of the late F. Madeline and James V. Worth. He lived in
Westport,
CT, for 25 years and moved to Darien in 1985. 
After graduation I set off
to Decatur, Georgia where Carol
and I were married and thence to Athens, Georgia for Supply School. The
following years from '55 to '60 saw the arrival of our first two
daughters,
Karen and Brenda and duty aboard the USS SIBONEY (CVE 112), USS SOLEY
(DD707),
USS RANDOLPH (CVA 15) and NAS Jacksonville, Florida. 1961 our family
relocated to Sigonella, Italy where we welcomed our third daughter,
Cheryl. After two more tours at Philadelphia and Washington where the
last of our girls, Gretchen arrived, I received orders to Fleet air,
Western Pacific to coordinate supply support and logistics for First
Marine Air Wing. In 1969, as a Commander
I became a student again at George Washington University and earned a
Master's Degree in Business Administration. Following this time in
Washington I was ordered to USS AMERICA (CVA 66) in the Mediterranean
and from there to Yankee Station, (Vietnam). My last assignment
beginning in 1973 was to Staff, Commander Naval Air Force, U.S.
Atlantic Fleet, Norfolk. 
I
regret to inform that Jimmie D. Jackson passed
away on
Christmas day while visiting his mother in Calistoga, CA. He had been
operated
on several years ago for a aneurysm of the aorta and evidently it gave
way
on him and he hemorrhaged to death. I was informed by Al Kozischek and
Jimmie's
wife Rosemarie just before last week. I waited to disseminate the sad
news
until I had information about the cause of death. 
I started my illustrious
flying career by terrifying the
Koreans in F-86's. Made the Grand Tour of Europe in F-111's in Toul,
France
and Hahn, Germany. Ate enough escargots to belch my way across the
continent
and bash two porsches. Returned to a remote stateside tour at Cannon
AFB,
NM. Had a pleasurable TDY excursion to Army jump school where I loved
the
running, lived the smell of armpits, and loved puking on the run.
Couldn't
understand why everyone else was complaining. Took my first look at SEA
in
F-100's in 1963 at Takhli, Thiland. During the Cuban Missile Crisis we
sunbathed
and cooled our bodies with daiquiris at Homestead AFB FL. It was a
terrible
crisis. Then suffered thru TDY's to Misawa Japan and Avaino Italy.
While
maintaining jump currency status, managed to make a perfect parachute
landing
in an Italian village fountain. 
On the occasion of our 30th USNA
graduation anniversary
the Holder family is living in Philadelphia where I am employed by the
Sun
Refining and Marketing Company. 
Captain
Ronald Cornell
Kucera, USN (Ret.), passed away on 6 October 2000, in Tempe, AZ. He was
67 years old. 
Order of Military Merit (Paraquay), Navy
Honor Medal (Paraquay). 
Captain Francis J. "Frank" Farino, USN
(Ret.), passed away peacefully on 22 January 2001, surrounded by his
family and friends following a courageous battle with cancer. He was 69
years old. 
Lieutenant Colonel Wayne Shanahan, USAF
(Ret.), known to
all as "Shanny," passed away on 27 January 2001 in Tucson, AZ,
following
complications from surgery. He was interned in the Arizona Veterans
Cemetery
in Cave Creek, AZ, with full military honors. 
Commander
Charles A. Tarver Jr., USN (Ret.), died
of a heart attack at his home in Virginia Beach, VA, on 21 October
2001.
He was buried with military honors at Princess Ann Park in Virginia
Beach. 
I 'm sad
to
report that Classmate John "Brent" Streit (10) passed away from cancer
in his sleep last night in Virginia Beach,
VA. I'll pass on further information when it's available.