Posted on 01/17/2019
William Carrier Jr. (November 21, 1921 – January 8, 2019)
Capt. William Carrier Jr. USN (Ret.) passed away January. 8th, 2019. Bill was born in Indianapolis, Indiana and graduated from the Naval Academy, class of 1945, earning a degree in Marine Engineering. After graduation Bill served on the U.S.S. Nashville in WWII and went on to become a naval aviator. Some notable highlights of his 30 year Navy career are: Armament Test Pilot from 1957-59; Commanding Officer of Attack Squadron 85 CV59; CO of the U.S.S. Virgo in the Vietnam War (1969); CO of Patuxent River, MD Naval Air Station 1970-72 and the selection as a candidate for the Project Mercury Astronaut program. During his distinguished career Bill proudly served in WWII and both the Korean and Vietnam wars receiving many awards including the Legion of Merit, Bronze Star and National Defense Service metal. He crossed paths with the likes of John Glenn, Alan Shepard, Wally Schirra, Jimmie Doolittle, General MacArthur and Senator John McCain. Bill retired from the United States Navy as a Captain on July 1, 1974 and along with his family settled in Jacksonville, Florida. He continued a life of service participating in the Masons, Shriners, Salvation Army, and Boy Scouts. In his spare time he enjoyed fishing, golf, motorcycling, travel, and being a member of the Big Orange Chorus. He had a strong impeccable integrity and irreproachable character forged by his education and career. Bill spent his entire life serving others, from his beloved country, community and friends to most importantly serving his family. He was a wonderful husband, father, grandfather and friend and enjoyed a full and rewarding life. Bill was preceded in death by his loving wife Grace of 56 years, son Lt. jg. Bruce Carrier and sister Rose Mary Westra. He is survived by two children, Carolyn Osterman and William 'Bill' Carrier III; son-in-law Chuck Osterman; grandchildren Chris Osterman, Troy Osterman and Gabrielle Carrier; great-grandchildren Evan and Noah Osterman; nephews Mark and Steve Westra. A graveside service to honor the life of Captain William Carrier Jr., will be held in Arlington National Cemetery of Arlington, Virginia, at a future date. Please visit www.roswellfuneralhome.com to share memories and leave condolences with the family. The funeral services for Capt. William Carrier Jr., have been entrusted to the care of Roswell Funeral Home 950 Mansell Road Roswell, Georgia 30076.
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