Ronald David Turner
As published Saturday, August 28, 2010, in The Morning Sun at Mt Pleasant, Michigan.
Oct. 31, 1949 - Aug. 26, 2010
Ronald David Turner, age 60, of St. Louis went home to our Lord on Aug. 26, 2010 after a 4 1/2 year battle with blood cancer.
Funeral services will be held Monday Aug. 30, 2010 at 1 p.m. from the Berry Funeral Home with Pastor Kathy Kursch officiating.
Visitations will be Saturday from 7 to 9 p.m. and Sunday from 2 to 8 p.m. at the Berry Funeral Home in Shepherd.
Ron was born Oct. 31, 1949 in Marinette, WI to George and Marjorie (Hudson) Turner.
Ron graduated from Shepherd High School in 1969. He was employed as a carpenter and crew leader by Three Rivers, INC. of Midland. He served in the Coast Guard and was stationed in New Jersey.
Ron loved his family, and enjoyed hunting, fishing and trap shooting with all of them.
Survived by his wife of 28 years Caral, five children: Brian (Jean) Turner of Salem, VA, Steve (Sarah) Turner of Manton, Dustin (Samantha) Turner of Oil City, Desiree (Rob) Evans of Rosebush, Joshua Turner of St. Louis. 9-Grandchildren: Tyler, Dakota, Elyssa, Dylan, Luke, Jeremy, Kiley, Brook, and Danielle. 2-Brothers: Jerry (Linda) Turner of Woodstock, GA, Bruce (Liz) Turner of DeWitt Nephews: Jon Turner and Scott (Jennifer) Turner Great Nephew: Michael Turner and Great niece Paige Turner.
Preceded in death by his parents George and Marjorie Turner.
08/28/10 Submitted by: 
Lee Wonnacott
CWO4 Norberto 'Bert' Encarnacion
My father in law, Bert Encarnacion, passed away recently. He was a 30-year veteran of the Coast Guard, attaining the rank of CWO4. His service included two years aboard USCGC COURIER (1958-60). He was also stationed at Governor’s Island (1967-70), Honolulu (1967-70), and Boston (1973-85). Here is the notice we sent to our local newspapers:
Norberto Ordonez Encarnacion, 75, of New York City, formerly of Salem, Mass., died unexpectedly of natural causes on Saturday, August 7, while visiting relatives in the Philippines. Born in Cavite City, Philippines, he immigrated to the United States to serve in the U.S. Coast Guard, from which he retired in 1985 after 30 years of service.
Mr. Encarnacion was preceded in death by his parents, Timoteo and Magdalena (Ordonez) Encarnacion, and a sister, Myra Encarnacion, all of Cavite City. He is survived by his wife Marian Rosoff Encarnacion of Walpole, Massachusetts; longtime companion Leticia M. Dolan of New York City; three daughters: Karen Encarnacion of Walpole; Janet Encarnacion and husband Tristan Davies of Mansfield, Massachusetts; and Linda Millard and husband Richard of Attleboro, Massachusetts; and two grandchildren. He is survived in the Philippines by a brother, Timoteo Encarnacion, Jr., and two sisters, Cielito De Guzman and Sylvia Encarnacion, and an extended family of cousins, nieces, nephews and their many children.
A funeral mass was held on Thursday, August 12, at San Roque Parish Church, Cavite City, Philippines. A memorial service and reception will be held at Murray Unitarian Universalist Church, 505 North Main St., Attleboro, Massachusetts (www.murrayuuchurch.org), on Sunday, August 22, at 12 noon. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests contributions to Catholic Charities USA, P.O. Box 17066, Baltimore, MD 21297-1066 (www.catholiccharitiesusa.org).
08/15/10 Submitted by: Tristan Davies
BMCM PAUL ANDRIEU
ALCOAST 402/10
COMDTNOTE 10000
SUBJ: PASSING OF MASTER CHIEF BOATSWAINS MATE PAUL ANDRIEU
1. IT IS WITH GREAT SADNESS THAT I REPORT THE PASSING OF MASTER
CHIEF BOATSWAINS MATE PAUL R. ANDRIEU, WHO DIED ON ACTIVE DUTY AFTER
A BRIEF BUT UNEXPECTED ILLNESS ON 27 JULY 2010.
2. A NATIVE OF SAN FRANCISCO, BORN ON 25 DECEMBER 1961, MASTER CHIEF
ANDRIEU ENLISTED IN THE COAST GUARD IN MARCH OF 1980 AND COMPLETED
BASIC TRAINING AT TRAINING CENTER ALAMEDA. HIS ASSIGNMENTS INCLUDED
COMMAND OF CGC SOCKEYE, CG STATION SAN FRANCISCO, CG STATION
CARQUINEZ, AND CGC POINT BROWER. HE WAS XPO AT CG STATION GOLDEN
GATE AND CGC POINT BROWER. OTHER ASSIGNMENTS INCLUDE THE NATIONAL
HONOR GUARD, CG STATION SAINT INIGOES, CG STATION SAN DIEGO, CG
GROUP SAN DIEGO, AND CGC ACTIVE. PRIOR TO SERVING AS OIC OF CGC
SOCKEYE, HE WAS THE SECTOR SAN FRANCISCO COMMAND MASTER CHIEF.
3. MASTER CHIEF ANDRIEU ATTENDED NUMEROUS SERVICE SCHOOLS AND WAS A
GRADUATE OF THE CG CPO ACADEMY, CLASS 50. HIS MILITARY AWARDS
INCLUDE THE MERITORIOUS SERVICE MEDAL, CG COMMENDATION MEDAL WITH
ONE GOLD STAR, THE CG ACHIEVEMENT MEDAL WITH THREE GOLD STARS, THE
COMMANDANTS LETTER OF COMMENDATION, AND NUMEROUS OTHER AWARDS. HE
EARNED HIS PERMANENT CUTTERMANS PIN, PERMANENT BOAT FORCES INSIGNIA,
AND COMMAND PINS, BOTH ASHORE AND AFLOAT.
4. A SKILLED MARINER, INSPIRATIONAL SENIOR LEADER, AND TRUE
SHIPMATE, MASTER CHIEF ANDRIEU WAS KNOWN FOR HIS GOOD HUMOR, EVEN
KEEL, AND APPROACHABLE DEMEANOR. HIS EXPERIENCE AND PROFESSIONAL
KNOWLEDGE ESTABLISHED HIM AS A MENTOR, ADVISOR, AND FRIEND FOR
COUNTLESS COAST GUARDSMEN WITH WHOM HE SERVED DURING THE PAST 30
YEARS. HE WILL BE MISSED BEYOND MEASURE.
5. MASTER CHIEF ANDRIEU IS SURVIVED BY HIS PARENTS, PAUL AND
PATRICIA ANDRIEU, HIS FIANCE CINDY BERKIW, HIS SISTER NANCY ANDRIEU,
HIS FOUR CHILDREN, SHAUN, CHRISTOPHER, RACHEL, KELSEY, AND ONE
GRANDDAUGHTER, LILYANNA.
6. THE COAST GUARD OFFERS ITS CONDOLENCES TO HIS FAMILY MEMBERS,
FRIENDS, AND SHIPMATES. SERVICES WILL BE HELD AT 1030 ON YERBA
BUENA ISLAND, SAN FRANCISCO, CA ON 12 AUGUST 2010.
7. A MEMORIAL FUND IS BEING ESTABLISHED IN THE NAME OF MASTER CHIEF
ANDRIEU TO BENEFIT HIS CHILDRENS EDUCATION. INDIVIDUALS WHO WISH TO
DONATE MAY DO SO, PAYABLE TO PAUL ANDRIEU, SR., EXECUTOR AND SENT
TO:
COMMANDER
USCG SECTOR SAN FRANCISCO
1 YERBA BUENA ISLAND
SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94130
ATTN: BMCM ANDRIEU MEMORIAL FUND
8. RELEASED BY ADM BOB PAPP, COMMANDANT.
9. INTERNET RELEASE AUTHORIZED.
BT
08/12/10 Submitted by: Timothy Mooney
Bruce Richter
RICHTER, BRUCE C.,58, died Tues. Aug. 3, at Falmouth Hospital. Born in Providence, RI, son of Gloria (Johnson) Richter and the late Carl L. Graduate of Cranston East High School, attended New York Maritime College and a graduate of Columbia College. Bruce summered on Cape Cod and considred himself a Cape Codder.He served 23 years in the U. S.Coast Guard, during the Vietnam & Gulf Wars, with the rank of Chief Petty Officer as a Quartermaster for 10 yrs. and 13 years as a Special Agent with Coast Guard Investigations. After retiring from the Coast Guard he worked for Cape Cod Printing Co. for seven years.
Besides his mother he is survived by his wife, Vickie
(McFarland) Richter, granddaughter Laren Ofrie; daughter Jamie Sacchetti; cousins Ed & James Laivo & Diane Vavricka.
Visiting Hours in John- Lawrence Funeral Home, 3778 Falmouth Rd. (Rt28) Marstons Mills on Tues, Aug. 10, from 10:30-12 noon, followed by a Funeral Service at 12 pm. Burial will be private. Memorials may be made to the Lauren Ofrie-Richter Educational Fund, c/o Cape Cod Five Cent Savings Bank, P.O. Box 10, Orleans, MA 02653-9983.
Published in The Providence Journal on August 9, 2010
08/09/10 Submitted by: Michael Scanlon
Capt. Michael J. O'Brien (Ret.)
Captain Michael J. O’Brien, USCG (Ret.) was born in Tupper Lake, New York, USA on November 5, 1936 to Albert B. O’Brien and M. Clare O’Brien; he was the eldest of five siblings, Ann M. (D), Kathleen, Albert “Al”, and George “Steve”.
Mike grew up in Watertown, NY graduating from Watertown High School in 1954; he excelled at sports, particularly Hockey and Baseball. At age 17, after graduation from High School he began life as a cadet at the U.S. Coast Guard Academy, New London, CT.
While at the Coast Guard Academy, he was active in sports and captained the Baseball Team during his senior year. In 1958 at age 21 he graduated from the Academy and was stationed in Boston, MA aboard the 311 foot cutter MCCULLOCH, serving in both deck and engineering departments.
In 1961 at age 24 Captain O’Brien’s service continued as Engineering Officer aboard the 205 foot cutter CHEROKEE, home ported in Virginia Beach, VA. He was onboard the CHEROKEE when she towed the decommissioned battleship USS NORTH CAROLINA (BB55) into her present location on the Cape Fear River. While serving aboard the CHEROKEE he met Judith H. White of Suffolk, VA. They were married on March 16, 1963 at Star of the Sea Catholic Church in Virginia Beach, VA.
In 1963 at age 26 he was Operations Officer aboard the cutter 254 foot cutter CHAUTAUQUA in Honolulu, HI. On November 4, 1963 his first child Margaret Clare “Peggy” was born in Honolulu.
In 1965, at age 28 he was transferred to USCG Headquarters, Washington, DC. His second child, Albert Patrick “Pat” was born on June 18, 1965 in Fort Belvoir, VA his third child Erin Ann was born June 13, 1966 also in Fort Belvoir, VA.
In 1969 at age 32 he returned to sea as Executive Officer aboard the 378 foot cutter HAMILTON, which was deployed to Vietnam in the Market Time Operations. In 1971 at age 34 he attended the Naval War College in Newport, RI. His fourth child, Michael Kevin was born in Newport, RI on August 31, 1971.
In 1972 at age 35 he served as Coast Guard Liaison and Ship Training Officer at the U.S. Naval Fleet training group in Guantanamo Bay, Cuba. In 1974, age 37 he received his first command, the 210 foot cutter ALERT home-ported in Cape May, NJ.
In 1976, age 39 he again served at USCG Headquarters in Washington, DC as Assistant Chief, Enlisted Personnel Division and later as Assistant Chief, Officer Personnel Division. In 1979, age 42 he was assigned as Command Officer of the 378 foot cutter MELLON in Honolulu, HI. When the Mellon moved its homeport from Honolulu to Seattle, he took command of the 378 foot cutter MUNRO in Honolulu. Very few officers have had the distinction of commanding two 378 foot High Endurance Cutters.
In 1981, age 44 he was transferred to Governors Island, NY as Commanding Officer of Support Center New York. In 1983, at age 46 he was transferred to Coast Guard Head Quarters and served as Chief of Enlisted Personnel and later as Deputy Chief, Office of Operations. In 1986 at age 49 he was transferred to Miami, FL as Chief of Staff, 7th Coast Guard District. In Miami he served in counter drug operations under then Vice President George H.W. Bush, President Reagan’s drug czar. On June 30th, 1988 at age 51 he retired with 30 years of active service.
His decorations included the Coast Guard Meritous Service Medal with Gold Star, Coast Guard Commendation Medal with “O” Device, Navy Commendation Medal and Coast Guard Achievement Medal with “O” Device and Gold Star. He received a Master’s of Science Degree in International Affairs from George Washington University.
In August 1988 he accepted the Position of Port Director with The Grand Bahama Port Authority Port Director and was responsible for the operation of the Freeport Harbour Company Ltd. During an interim period, he held the position of Director, Air & Sea Ports while managing both the Grand Bahama International Airport and Freeport Harbour Company.
During his tenure as Port Director, Freeport Harbour grew from a small port serving the needs of Grand Bahama Island to a world class transshipment port of global significance.
In 1988 Freeport Harbour when he came to Freeport the harbor had a controlling depth of 30 feet, a width of 300 feet, handled less than 20,000 TEU’s of containers and had no fixed repair facilities. The harbor received 300,000 cruise passengers per year.
Today Freeport Harbour has a controlling depth of 52 feet, a 500 foot wide channel and handles the largest post-panamax Container Ships currently in operation. The container terminal has an annual capacity of over 1.5 million TEU. The harbor receives the largest passenger ships in the world, landing over 900,000 passengers each year. The harbor is also now home to a mega yacht repair facility and a major ship repair facility operating 3 dry docks including the largest dry dock in the Western Hemisphere.
In the words of Mr. Edward St. George, one of the founders of Grand Bahama Port Authority, when writing to the Bahamian Government on behalf of Capt. O’Brien:
“He was largely responsible for all major development in Freeport Harbour including the Container Port and Shipyard.”
In 1997 at age 60, he re-married to Linda H. Carr, of Virginia Beach, Va.
In 2002, at age 65 he retired as Port Director but stayed on in a consulting capacity, tirelessly working to grow the business of Freeport Harbour, focusing special interest on Cruise Ships. Capt. Mike retired fully in 2006 at age 69 but remained active within the Maritime Community. He remained on the island that he loved. Capt. O’Brien passed away in Freeport, Grand Bahama on July 7th, 2010. He was 73 years old.
Capt. O’Brien will be buried at Arlington National Cemetery on October 27, 2010 at 3:00 pm with full Military honors.
In lieu of Flowers, the family asks that donations be made in honor of Capt. O'Brien to the Coast Guard Foundation.
http://www.coastguardfoundation.org/, 860-535-0786
Contact: Mike K. O'Brien, muddytugboat@gmail.com
07/31/10 Submitted by: Michael O'Brien
CWO4 Ken McLean
Kenneth Maynard McLean, CWO4 (USCG ret.), 54, a native and lifelong resident of the Peninsula, died Tuesday, July 20, 2010, surrounded by his loving family.
He retired from the U.S. Coast Guard, as a Diesel Engineer, after 22 years; worked 10 years as a service advisor at various auto dealerships; and worked three years, as a Test Engineer, at Northrop Grumman Shipbuilding. Ken was a member of the Poquoson Yacht Club, and the 71st Street Anglers. He had a great love for scuba diving, NASCAR racing, ballroom dancing, opera, hardcrab racing, billiards, RV'ing, and boating ('but not fishing!'). He was of the Protestant faith, and nature was his church.
Ken was preceded in death by his father, Maynard F. McLean; and mother, Rosa A. Woodall.
He is survived by his wife of seven years, Ronda Freeman McLean; father, Aubrey Woodall; mother, Charmaine McLean; parents, Esther and Henry Freeman; brothers, Brian McLean, Aubrey Woodall, and Lennie Leffel and wife, Tracie; sister, Debbie McDaniel and husband, Jimmy; and many other extended family members.
The family will receive friends from 5 to 7 p.m. Friday, at Claytor Rollins Funeral Home, Poquoson, and afterwards all are welcome to the Poquoson Yacht Club for a celebration of Ken's life. Friday night, to honor Ken's memory, friends are asked to bring or wear something to represent his personality. Services will be held at 2:30 p.m. Saturday, at Tabernacle United Methodist Church, Poquoson, by the Rev. Dr. Bill Wash, the Rev. Bobby Collins, and the Rev. Swanie Brayboy. Services will continue at Smith Memorial Cemetery, Poquoson, with Coast Guard Honors. At other times the family will be at 1 Susan Dr., Poquoson.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Cleveland Clinic Foundation, in honor of Dr. Steven Campbell, 9500 Euclid Ave., Cleveland, OH 44195. Online condolences to www.claytorrollins.com
The family wishes to thanks Dr. John Kessler and Dr. J. Clif Tinsley, for their special care and compassion. View and post condolences on our online guestbook at dailypress.com/guestbooks.
07/22/10 Submitted by: Patrick Flynn
SK2 Raymond F. 'Ray' Lee
Raymond F. 'Ray' Lee, 64, beloved husband of Dorothy (Carragher) Lee for 42 years, entered into eternal peace on Thursday, July 8, 2010 at Johnson Memorial Hospital with his family by his side. Ray was born in Rockville CT on May 28, 1946 and lived most of his life in Enfield CT. Ray served in the Coast Guard during the Vietnam era and attended SK class A school at TRACEN, Groton CT. His duty stations were Base Boston MA and the USCGC VIGILANT in New Bedford MA. A Mass of Christian Burial on July 13th at St. Patrick Church and interment with military honors at St. Patrick's King St. Cemetery in Enfield CT following the Mass. The local V.F.W. provided a firing honor guard and two Coast Guard petty officers were there to fold the colors and present the flag to his wife. I have known Ray and his family for many years and must admit the services moved me to tears. He was a good friend and will be deeply missed.
07/19/10 Submitted by: Russell Maher
Vernon R. Benson
This obituary was posted in the Soo Evening News, Sault Ste Marie, Michigan.
Vernon R. Benson died peacefully in his Jacksonville, Fla. home on July 12, 2010 surrounded by family and friends. He was born in Sault Ste. Marie, Mich. on April 4, 1943 and graduated from the local high school in 1961.
As a young man he worked on ore carriers in the Great Lakes shipping fleet. He later joined the Coast Guard and served on the USS Southwind, an icebreaker tasked with keeping the shipping lanes clear near Antarctica. He lived in Miami, Florida for a time after his service and met his wife of forty years there while working on his newly purchased Corvette Stingray.
A shy man by nature, he would never have spoken to her had she not taken the liberty of introducing herself and taking a seat in his car. After they married they had one daughter and then moved to the Jacksonville area. He worked as a civilian electronics technician and supervisor for Cecil Field Naval Air Station and Mayport Naval Base. After thirty-four years with the Navy he retired in the fall of 2008. He was a man of 19th century sensibilities; he maintained an abiding and active interest in steam engines, wooden boats, trains, and woodworking. He appreciated a clean workshop and a finely stacked woodpile.
Vern is preceded in death by his father, Roy F. Benson, and a great many uncles and aunts. He leaves behind his wife Barbara (Salls) Benson; his daughter Jennifer Lynn Benson; his son-in-law Joseph C. Totherow, his granddaughter Gillian Benson-Totherow; his mother Elizabeth E. (Wheeler) Benson; his brothers Wayne, Lawrence, and Mark Benson; his sister Mary Ann (Benson) Delay; and many nieces, nephews, great nieces, and great nephews.
A Memorial Service will be held at 4 p.m. on Saturday, July 17 in Hardage-Giddens Mandarin Chapel with Pastor Steven Mouzon as Officiant. In lieu of flowers, memorials preferred to Northeast Florida Community Hospice, 4266 Sunbeam Rd, Jacksonville, FL 32257. Graveside service at Pine Grove Cemetery to be announced at a later date.
07/18/10 Submitted by: Lee Wonnacott
Robert Doughty
It is my with regret that I report the passing of DC2 Robert Doughty (ret) on 25 June 2010. He loved the Coast Guard.
07/12/10 Submitted by: Fred A. Siegel
MKC Ray Standley
I only learned today, that Chief Standley passed away, in April. In the late 50s, early 60s Ray and I served together aboard CG-50048, Everett, WA. I didn't know Ray, so I asked some one who did 'What is this guy like?'. The answer was, 'Give him a stick and a piece of wire, and he will make something out of it...AND it will work'. That pretty much tell the story of Ray Standley. I can not count the time that he fabricated something out of nothing, to enable us to do our job. One hell of a snipe, a funny guy and a great shipmate.
07/07/10 Submitted by: Jerry Echols
BMC Alan Lutz
Chief Lutz was my BMC on the Boutwell, he passed 27 June after a long battle with cancer, he was 55.
07/07/10 Submitted by: Jon Gagnon
Harry E. Lape CWO4
Harry E Lape, CWO4, plank owner, U.S.C.G.C, WHEC 725 Jarvis, crossed the bar on May 30 2010. He is survived by his wife, 2 sons, 4 grandchildren, a brother and a sister. He was interred at Virginia Veterans Cemetery at Amelia, VA.
06/27/10 Submitted by: Phil Wittnebert
VAdm Thomas R. Sargent III
Our Dad, VAdm Thomas R. Sargent III, Vice Commandant 1971-1974, passed away at his home yesterday. In his 95 years, he was a loving husband, outstanding father and a great patriot. He was our hero and mentor. He loved us and his adopted country without bounds. We will miss him so. He is survived by loving wife of 70 years, Lucy, sons Thomas Sargent IV, Karl and wife Carol and daughter Diane Ryan, seven grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. VAdm Sargent's biography of his career and contributions to the Coast Guard can be found at http://www.uscg.mil/history/webcutters/BIO_TR_Sargent.pdf
05/31/10 Submitted by: Karl Sargent
CAPT. Wayne Stonecypher, USCG
CAPT Wayne Stonecypher, United States Coast Guard, passed away quietly and peacefully February 20, 2010. Wayne was born in Tacoma, WA June 5, 1919, to Melville and Nora Stonecypher. He grew up on a farm which produced both apples and chickens, with his two younger brothers, Keith and Vernon, both also now deceased. In November of 1938, at the age of 19, Wayne enlisted in the United States Coast Guard and was posted to sea duty in Hawaii. He was assigned to the US Coast Guard Cutter Taney, a member of the original crew. In June of 1942 he was commissioned a Warrant Officer in the Coast Guard Reserve. He served in Hawaii throughout WWII, and continued to serve in the Coast Guard Reserve until his retirement as Captain. In June on 1946 he went to work for Dole Pineapple in Hawaii. He worked in several capacities until November 1961, when he transferred to Dole operations in San Jose, where he worked until his retirement from Dole. Wayne married Florence Brazil in 1990, living initially in Fremont, and later moving to Turlock. Following Florence’s death in 2005, Wayne resided in a retirement center until the time of his death. A memorial service was held on Thursday, April 29th, 2010, in the Moffett Field Chapel in Mountain View, CA Inurnment, with full military honors, was held on Friday, April 30, 2005, at the San Joaquin Valley National Cemetery, Santa Nella, CA.
05/26/10 Submitted by: Garret Conklin
SKCM Robert A Guest
GUEST, Robert A. 'Bob' passed on to the hands of the Lord May 15, 2010. He was predeceased by his wife of 52 years Peggy Egan Guest. Born July 26, 1929, in Buffalo, NY, he was the first son of Amos and Lois Guest, having grown up in Philadelphia, Bob also lived in Charleston, SC, Clearwater, and Jacksonville, prior to enlisting in the United States Coast Guard on Sept. 6, 1948. His early training as a Sea Scout provided him with the love and knowledge of how to work close to the sea he grew to love. After making E-6 in 36 months after enlisting, Bob worked with LORAN (A&C) stations in Matratin, Libya, Yokosuka, Japan, Tenerife, Canary Islands and Naples, Italy to name a few. His service took him to many duty stations including Honolulu, HI, Governors Island, NY, Naples, Italy and finally to retirement in St. Petersburg in 1971. Bob retired as an E-9 Master Chief Storekeeper after 22 years service in the United States Coast Guard and never looked back. He circled the globe in service of his country, but really hit his stride when he discovered cruising. Together Bob and Peggy made 54 cruising excursions to all corners of the globe. They were often accompanied by friends and grandchildren as they explored the world. Bob is survived by his daughter Virginia A. Jackson of Milford, NH, and two sons, Robert T. Guest of Atlanta, GA and Patrick M. Guest of Danville, IN. His grandchildren include Robert DeWitt 'Jack' Guest of Atlanta, GA, Carolyn Elizabeth Guest of Monterosso, Italy, Sean Patrick Guest of Blacksburg, VA, Conner Shane Jackson of Milford, NH, Abigail Colleen Guest and Sophia Marie Guest of Carmel, IN. A viewing will be held on Friday, May 21, from 5pm-7 pm at Anderson McQueen 2201 M.L. King Street N. St. Petersburg, FL 33704. Bob's funeral will be held at 10:30 am, Saturday, May 22 at St. Raphael's Church, 1376 Snell Isle Blvd. N.E. St. Petersburg, FL 33704, 727-821-7989. In lieu of flowers memorial donations can be made to Soldiers and Sailors Hospital, Laurel Health System 22 Walnut Street, Wellsboro, PA 16901, 1-800-808-5287,
05/19/10 Submitted by: William J. (Bill) Reetz
CWO4 Wiley T. Burnette
William T. Burnette September 7, 1922 - April 28, 2010 COLUMBUS, GA — CW04 Retired William T. Burnette, 87, of Columbus, GA passed away Wednesday, April 28, 2010 at St Francis Hospital. Graveside services will be held 1:30 p.m. EST Monday, May 3, 2010 at Ft. Mitchell National Cemetery according to Vance Memorial Chapel. The family will receive friends Sunday evening from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. EST at the funeral home. Mr. Burnette was born September 7, 1922 in Madison, FL, son of the late William T. Burnett, Sr. and Anna Smith Burnett. He retired from the United States Coast Guard after 30 years of service. During his career he served his country in World War II, the Korean Conflict and Vietnam. He was the recipient of the Coast Guard Good Conduct Medal, Achievement Medal and National Defense Service Medal. Mr. Burnette was also a Master Mason for over 60 years. He is survived by his loving wife of 67 years Dorothy Margaret Burnette of Columbus, GA; one son Tom Burnette and wife Annette of Smiths Station, AL; one daughter Martha Whitaker of New Smyrna Beach, FL; four grandchildren Sheri Lee, Greg Burnette, Matt Burnette and Maggie Lindsay; six great-grandchildren and four great-great grandchildren.(A great CO at Ponce Inlet)
05/18/10 Submitted by: Bill Fuller
Brian Steven Blanchard
Brian died suddenly at his home in Charlotte, N.C. on April 3rd,2010. He was 45 years old. Brian was born in Santa Monica, CA on Oct.27th, 1964,the son of Robert Blanchard and LaVonne Block Blanchard. He moved to Solana Beach with his family in 1975. He attended Torrey Pines High School, where he played varsity football, and graduated in 1983. Brian loved the beach scene and ocean and became an avid surfer and diver. Brian served in the U.S.Coast Guard from 1983 until his honorable discharge in 1987. He was stationed on a number of ships in the Kodiak,AK and Morro Bay,CA areas. Afterward, he attended the San Diego Police Academy at Miramar College, San Diego and received his Police Officer Certificate in 1989. He served the Morro Bay Police Department with distinction from 1989 until 2002, when he retired with a job-related disability. He was department training officer for 10 years and assisted in the training of Morro Bay harbor police officers. He received a number of awards for public service during this period and was particularly effective as their D.A.R.E. officer for six years. Upon retirement, he formed a computer graphics business called Carorama Customs. He specialized in the design and manufacture of various collectible model vehicles representing law enforcement agencies, fire departments and the U.S. Coast Guard. Brian moved to Charlotte, NC in 2003 where he became an avid cyclist. Brian had numerous friends in the San Diego area and in the Coast Guard and police communities. He was a warm, caring, people-oriented person who believed in recognizing human values and being true to one's self. Brian is survived by his father Robert E. Blanchard of San Diego, his step-mother Jeanne Hansen of Solana Beach, Ca., a sister Susan Anne Wenger of Ellensburg, WA. Also his step-sisters Mindy McNeil-Muller and Christine McNeil of Solana Beach, his nephews Nicholas Muller and Spencer McNeil and niece Emma Muller, and girlfriend Jamie Smith of Charlotte, NC. Brian will be cointerred in the family cemetery in Hutchinson Kansas, on June 4. A celebration of his life will be held on May 22 in Solana Beach. For information about this event please contact Jeanne Hansen at: tojeanne@yahoo.com. A permanent memorial will be placed at the Del Mar Powerhouse beach. Contributions can be made by contacting Jeanne Hansen.
05/11/10 Submitted by: Brian Blanchard
Carl H. Rosene
Captain Carl H. Rosene, USCGR, passed away peacefully, at the age of 91, on May 2, with his loving wife and two daughters at his bedside. With his passing, he joins his only son, Jon, who passed away in 2008. Carl's long and distinguished life began on Sept. 16th, 1918 in Novelty Washington. He grew up on a dairy farm near Carnation, Washington, and learned his incredible work ethic at a very early age. After chores, he would always have a game of catch with his Dad, which started his life-long love of sports. He graduated from Duvall High School in 1936, attended Washington State University and received his Bachelor of Science from the University of Washington. He enlisted in the Coast Guard in November of 1941 and was assigned to the Captain of the Port in Tacoma Washington. In 1942 he was commissioned as an ensign from the first graduating class of the Officer Candidate School in New London, Connecticut. He met the love of his life, Lucile, at Port Chicago,California in 1952 and they were married that year before transferring to Miami. He subsequently was promoted through the ranks to Captain, on July 1, 1965. During World War II he served as the Executive Officer of LST 169, which participated in the Battle of In 1963, in his capacity as Commander of Coast Guard Reserve Training, he was appointed to represent the Coast Guard Reserve and it was his privileged duty to march in the State Funeral for President John F. Kennedy. In 1968 he was assigned to the Pentagon in the newly created position as the Coast Guard Reserve Liaison to the Dept of Defense. He was ceremoniously awarded The Meritorious Service Medal for his outstanding dedication to duty while at the Pentagon. Other highlights from his 29 years of service include acting Captain of the Port of San Francisco and Chief of the Reserve Division, 12th Coast Guard District. He retired August 19th, 1970.If you knew Carl, you knew of his love for all sports, but particularly baseball and football. He was a long time season ticket holder of the San Francisco 49ers and the San Francisco Giants, and for many years never missed a game. He was such an avid baseball fan that he was declared by the Giant organization to be 'One of the Five Top Giant Fans of All Time', and as a result he was asked to participate in an on-field pre- game ceremony celebrating the last game at Candlestick Park.Carl is survived by his loving wife of 57 years, Lucile, his daughters Barb Bacon of Santa Cruz and Judy Botts of Paso Robles, and his step brother Kirk Basore of Downey. He was deeply loved by his four grandchildren: Jason Carl Botts, Carl David Bacon, Nicole Marie Botts, and Richard Jon Bacon. He was delighted to recently meet his only great grandchild, Lincoln Tyler Botts. Carl was preceded in death by his parents Henry C. Rosene (Watertown, S.D.) and Alice L. Grady (Renton, WA) and his brother Dr. Robert Rosene (Baton Rouge, LA). Services will be held at Redwood Chapel, 847 Woodside Road. Redwood City, CA 94061 on May 11th at 12 noon. Visitation begins at 10:00 am. Internment Holy Cross Menlo Park. Donations may be made to the American Cancer Society, Alzheimer's Research, or the charity of your choice.
05/10/10 Submitted by: Darrel R. Beerbohm
CAPT Elmer Sorenson, USCG (Ret
Elmer SorensenJuneau EmpireFormer Juneau resident Capt. Elmer Sorensen died May 5, 2010, at his home in The Villages, Fla., after suffering a long-term illness. He was 69.Born Oct. 23, 1940, in Sheybogen, Wis., he graduated from East High School, Green Bay, Wis.; the U.S. Coast Guard Academy in New London, Conn., in 1962, with a Bachelor of Science in engineering; and the University of Illinois with a Bachelor of Science in civil engineering.Upon graduation from the U.S. Coast Guard Academy, he served as a deck watch officer on the cutter Rockaway. Additional assignments included district staff civil engineering in Honolulu, Seattle and Juneau.He also served at the Coast Guard Air Station in Elizabeth City, N.C., and as executive officer of the Coast Guard facility in Kodiak. His career also included Chief of Personnel for the Coast Guard district in Juneau and District Chief of Engineering in St. Louis, where he retired in 1986 as a captain.During his Coast Guard career, he was awarded a Coast Guard Commendation Medal and a Coast Guard Achievement Medal.Following his Coast Guard career, he worked as a civil engineer for the state of Alaska Divisions of Pioneers Benefits and Fish and Game, and retired again in 2001. His wife, Linda, retired after teaching in Alaska for more than 30 years.He enjoyed boating, hunting, fishing, square dancing, golf and was very active in Rotary International and the Masons. He was a Past Master of Gastineau Lodge Nr 124 in Juneau.He was preceded in death by his parents, Coast Guard Master Chief Elmer and Dorothea Sorensen.He is survived by his wife, Linda Sue Williams Sorensen; sons, Donald Sorenson, of West Virginia, and Robert Sorenson and wife, Jodi, of Virginia; two grandsons, Robbie and Ryan, of Virginia; and sisters, Sue Maedke, of Algoma, Wis., and Lynn Rasmussen, of Stevens Point, Wis.Funeral and internment was held in Sturgeon Bay, Wis., and a memorial service was held at The Villages.The family requests gifts in lieu of flowers to UF Interstitial Lung Disease Program, UF College of Medicine, University of Florida, 1600 SW Archer Road, P.O. Box 100225, JHMHC, Gainesville, FL 326120-0225. osted may
05/10/10 Submitted by: Tom Gemmell
John Bishoff
With sadness, I forward the following: This is Jennifer, John Bischoff's granddaughter. I am so sorry to inform you that Grandpa has gone to heaven. He passed Wed (5/5/10) at 12:15 in the afternoon. He was very peaceful in his passing. We will be having a memorial service at the Aulander Baptist Church, Sat. at 1 p.m.Evidently his granddaughter Jennifer can get into his email (mingol@roadrunner.com) if any of you wish to express condolences.
05/06/10 Submitted by: Fred A. Siegel
George S. Brenegan
GEORGE S. BRENEGAN Crossed the bar on April 22, 2010 of a pulmonary embolism after a fall. He was 74. He is survived by children Stephen, Cathy and grandson Jake. At 13 he managed to join the Merchant Marine and later enlisted in the Coast Guard serving aboard the CGC IROQUOIS and CGC WILLOW. He was aboard the IROQUOIS when she grounded at Midway Island and was one of the volunteers to stay aboard to keep her afloat. After his Coast Guard service he became an Oakland (CA) Police officer and served ten years before being forced to medically retire. He earned a masters degree and taught sixth graders at La Tercera Elementary School in Petaluma, CA for over 20 years. His wife, Gayle, passed away in 2003.
We have lost a dear friend who was full of life and laughter.
A celebration of his life will be held at 5pm May 8th at the Center for Spiritual Living, 2075 Occidental Road, Santa Rosa, CA.
Donations can be made in his memory to True to Life Children and Family Services, % Children's Enrichment Fund, PO Box 2079, Sebastopol, CA 95473.
Those wishing may also sign and live comments at http://george-brenegan.memory-of.com
04/29/10 Submitted by: Dick Levesque
TC1 Michael Roundtree
Michael Roundtree
February 24, 1959 - February 21, 2010
Michael P. Roundtree was born on February 24, 1959 to Cleveland Roundtree Sr. and Agnese Jenkins Roundtree in Bronx, New York. He was educated in the school system of New York and upon graduation enlisted in the United States Coast Guard. He worked in Homeland Security among other duties and after 24 years of dedicated service, Michael retired from the United States Coast Guard in 2001.
04/26/10 Submitted by: Victor N. Carter
Sam Overman AMC (Ret)
Sam passed away Friday 23 April 2010 at Chesapeake hospital after an unexpected and quick illness. Sam was my neighbor and a co-worker at ATTC in the late 1990's. He was a great person, a devoted husband and father and always had a kind word and a quick laugh. His passing is a loss to us all.
04/26/10 Submitted by: Charlie Keeton
CDR Guy Hill Buckelew, USCG (Ret)
BUCKELEW, GUY HILL 'BUCK' 59 - of Dennis Twp., Cmdr. USCG, Ret. passed on Friday, January 22, 2010. He was the son of Guy and the late Janice Buckelew of San Antonio, TX. He is survived by his wife Janis and children, Michelle, Stacey, and Brad. He is also survived by his sisters Martha, Patricia and Lori, brother Daryl, as well as numerous loving members of the Buckelew and MacKinnon families. Buck graduated from the United States Coast Guard Academy in 1973 and enjoyed a distinguished 21 year career, retiring with the rank of Commander in 1996. He has been a beloved teacher at Reeds Road Elem. School in Galloway Twp. for 14 years. He will be greatly missed. A Memorial Service will be held on Wednesday, January 27 at 4 PM, at Seaville United Methodist Church in Seaville, NJ. Friends may call from 2PM at the church until the time of the service. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Island Conservation at either www.islandconservation.org or in the form of a check addressed to Island Conservation Attn: Development Manager, University of California 100 Shaffer Road Santa Cruz, California 95060. To email condolences, visit www.godfreyfuneralhome.com Published in The Press of Atlantic City on January 26, 2010.
04/22/10 Submitted by: Thomas Gemmell
ALFRED 'PAUL' CHADWICK
CHADWICK, ALFRED (CWO4, RET USCG), 'PAUL' 68 - of North Cape May, NJ, died suddenly Saturday, March 27th, 2010. Mr. Chadwick was born in Winchester, Mass., the son of the late Alfred and Mary Chadwick. He graduated in 1961 from Chevrus High School, Portland Maine. As a member of the Boy Scouts, he received the Eagle Scout award. Mr. Chadwick enlisted in the US Coast Guard and was proud to serve his country. In 1992, he retired from the Coast Guard with 30 years of service and had attained the rank of Chief Warrant Officer 4. He was a member of the Chief Warrant Officer Association; the Chief Petty Officer Association; the Blue Knights-Chapter V; and the American Legion Post 193, Cape May. Paul loved doing yard work, sitt'n on the back porch, and rid'n his Harley. Mr. Chadwick was predeceased by his son, Robert Allen Chadwick in 2000. He is survived by: his loving wife of 46 years, Barbara Ann Chadwick; one son, Michael (and Teresa) Chadwick, of Smiths Grove, KY; nine grandchildren- Michael (and Kelly) Chadwick, Jr, Beth (and Tommy) Moore, Bobbie Sue (and Justin) Conrad, Jessica Stevens, Sarah Lambert (and fiance Josh Witt), Tristyn Stevens, Thomas Stevens, Anthony Chadwick, and Ambree Ann Chadwick; nine great-grandchildren: Austin, Destany, Anthany, Hunter, Trinity, Cheyenne, Skye, Kaelynn, and Michael III. Funeral Services will be held on Thursday, April 1st at 9:30 AM in the Sudak-Danaher Funeral Home, 815 Washington St., Cape May. There will be a viewing on Wednesday evening from 6 PM to 8 PM in the funeral home. Burial with US Coast Guard honors will follow the services in Cold Spring Cemetery, Lower Township. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Paul's memory to the American Cancer Society -Cape May Unit, PO Box 5066, Cherry Hill, NJ 08034-5066, or to your charity of choice.
04/06/10 Submitted by: Michael Chadwick
RDC Frank M Dekle Sr.
Frank passed over the Bar on February 28 at Tripler Army Medical Center. Frank and I were boot 3rd classes together on the CGC Gresham in the early 60s. We learned how to be sailors together. We had a great time! God bless Frank.
03/14/10 Submitted by: James (Jim) Warman
Frederick Lewis Cooper Jr, CPO USCG (ret)
Dr. Frederick Lewis Cooper Jr., 83, Chief Petty Officer, U.S. Coast Guard Retired, a loving husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather and brother, peacefully went home to be with our Savior on Tuesday, March 2, 2010, in Lynchburg (VA)General Hospital.
Dr. Cooper lived a life that was devoted to Christ, his country, his family and friends. Born in Boston, Mass, on April 28, 1926, he was the son of the late Frederick and Mary Cooper. He served his country during World War II, where he received a Purple Heart, and Korean Conflict as a member of the U.S. Coast Guard, retiring in 1964. He had been a faithful member of Thomas Road Baptist Church for 38 years.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a sister, Muriel Brewer.
He is survived by his devoted wife, Betty Jean Shields Cooper; five children, Lil M. Cooper, Frederick Lewis Cooper III (Gail Sheehe), Suzanne Walker (Darrell), Gordon Cooper (Wanda), and Dianne Pauza; five grandchildren, Frederick Lewis Cooper IV, Brooke Suzanne Walker, Brittany Michelle Cooper, Holton Lee Walker and Blake Hunter Cooper; and a great-grandchild, Ashton Blayne Stratton. He is also survived by his sister, Mary DeCoste; several nieces and nephews; and his special puppy, Angel.
Interment was in Fort Hill Memorial Park with military honors rendered by the U.S. Coast Guaard and American Legion Post 16.
In lieu of flowers, memmorials may take the form of contributions to the Alan Pearson Cancer Center or the Stroobants heart Center, both in care of the Centra health Foundation, 1920 Atherholt Road, Lynchburg, VA 24501
Memories and thoughts may be shared with the family at www. heritage and http://www.legacy.com/gb2/default.aspx?bookid=1494788858081&cid=full
The above was a portion published in The News & Advance on March 3, 2010.
03/14/10 Submitted by: Dick Levesque
Don Kent
Don Kent
The dean of broadcast weather forecasting in Boston and New England, died early March 2, a little past midnight, in Franklin Regional Hospital in Franklin, N.H., a few miles from his home in nearby Sanbornton. He was 92 and his health had failed since a bout with pneumonia at Christmas.
Beginning in 1937, Mr. Kent delivered weather forecasts on radio and TV stations in and around Boston and on Cape Cod until seven years ago. He got his start even earlier, though, when he persuaded his third-grade teacher in Wollaston to let him scrawl his weather predictions on the blackboard in the mid-1920s.
During World War II, the military needed weather observers and Don found himself serving in the Coast Guard. Occasionally he would fly in Martin Patrol Bombers off the New England coast and send back reports on wind direction, clouds, precipitation-anything that could help merchant marine vessels on their way to the European theater. In December 1944 he made an accurate forcast of 'icing' that prompted the Coast Guard to turn down a Navy patrol assignment. The Navy patrol went out anyway with disastrous results-the crew and aircraft were lost-proving Kent's forecast right. He received a direct commission in the Coast Guard, and at the time was the only commissioned Coast Guard Weather Officer.
When Mr. Kent began working in television, his studio tools for delivering the weather forecast hearkened to third grade: a map, chalkboards, and his own folksy voice.
In 1951, Mr. Kent moved to WBZ radio, and while keeping his voice on that station, also became the weatherman on WBZ TV a few years later. He retired from Channel 4 in 1983, and from WBZ radio in 1985, but not from the business. Mr. Kent worked at WHDH radio for a while, then worked for several radio stations, most recently at WQRC in Hyannis, where he contributed forecasts until about 2003.
Of all the weather events he covered, two stood out. One was the Hurricane of 1938.
'There were other storms that were bad, but the '78 blizzard was the worst,' he said. 'And I said we were going to measure it in feet, not inches.'
'I had the best job in the world, yes that's right, and I had the best luck. I was at the right place at the right time. Only a weatherman can be wrong so much and still get paid.'
Fair winds and following seas Don!
Even though the Coast Guard no longer has Weather Patrol Cutters on station we will continue to keep a weather eye out in your memory!
see links for sources to above narrative:
>>>http://wbztv.com/local/don.kent.dies.2.1530516.html>>http://www.boston.com/news/local/breaking_news/2010/03/don_kent_wbz-tv.html#end>>http://static.cbslocal.com/station/wbz/wbz/2010/march/donkent.pdf<<<
03/03/10 Submitted by: Mark Toomey
CDR Bruce Wallisch
CDR Bruce Wallisch (ret), crossed the bar on 15 Feb, 2010. Bruce was a good friend and someone that I will miss. He was one of those guys that was always there for you, always had something good to say about anyone, and was not afraid to make a decision. Rest in Peace Bruce.
Below are links to his obituary.
02/26/10 Submitted by: Gary Keen
Donald W. Hughes
BMC Donald W. Hughes, USCG Retired passed away on 12-9-09 in Phoenix,AZ. Donny was on the Wachusett as a BM2 when we were on the Vietnam cruise. He was one hell of Coastie and a great sailor. I would say a good poker player but I think not. He had been in poor health last couple years. See you soon Shipmate
02/23/10 Submitted by: Gary Hodge
H. O. Walker Sr.
Mr H. O. Walker Sr., of Vancleave MS died February 14, 2010 in Biloxi MS. He was a member of Mt. Pleasant United Methodist Church in Vancleave. He was a World War II Navy Coast Guard (USCG) veteran and retired from Ingalls as a model maker. He is survived by his wife of 66 years Marian Walker of Vancleave MS and three children Carol Sue (Billy) Robinson of Vancleave Huston Walker Jr. of Pascagoula, Tom (Phyllis) Walker of Atlanta, GA and two brothers Charles Walker of Carnes Community and Clyde Walker Of Vancleave, MS. Also survived by four grandchildren and eleven great grandchildren and a host of nieces and nephews. Services will be held Thursday, February 18, 2010 at Moore Funeral Home Chapel in Wiggens with a visitation two hours prior to the service at the funeral home. Interment will be in Maxie United Methodist Church Cemetary ( Taken from Sun Herald Newspaper Biloxi MS)
02/17/10 Submitted by: Jerry Amend
SSCM Ed Gaela
Edgardo S. Gaela 75, of Miami passed away January 9, 2010. Husband of Cecilia (Flor) for 47 years, father of Edward (Ft. Lauderdale), Eric (Lake Mary) and Robyn Vanlandingham (Long Island, NY) and grandfather of Zachary, Rachel, Stephanie and Jacob (Long Island, NY). He served 27 years in the United States Coast Guard before retiring as an E-9 Master Chief Petty Officer.
02/13/10 Submitted by: Bill Fuller
BMCS Richard D. Dixon
BMCS Rick Dixon, two time recipient of the Coast Guard Medal (with extraordinary heroism) crossed the bar on Friday, September 25, 2009 at his home in Medford, Oregon in the care of his wife and friend Virginia. Rick lived his life with the distinction granted only to those heroic, but humble and caring souls among us who are so fortunate to have known them. Rick was respected and endeared by all who knew him. Some of Rick’s shipmates would like to him get the reorganization he so greatly deserves. Anyone who may have first hand accounts of Rick’s heroic experiences are requested to contact Al Shepherd at the below address.
01/30/10 Submitted by: Al Shepherd
QMC William O. Benton
Chief Billy Benton of the Bibb and Point Franklin has passed away in South Carolina in October of 2009. Bubba is surely already upstairs but may not know he's in heaven yet because he always thought his beloved Charleston, SC home was heaven. A fine CPO and mentor. He will be long remembered by those of us who knew him.
01/21/10 Submitted by: Tom Mactaggart
AMTC John Mengelson (Ret)
AMTC John Mengelson (Ret) was tragically taken from us on 18 January 2010 in civilian plane crash. My deepest sympathy to his family, friends and the Coast Guardsman that he served with. John was a talented technician and a cherished friend. I will miss his sense of humor and positive attitude. John never met anybody that he didn't like and he was liked by all that came in contact with him. John, you will always be remembered. “The greatest among you will be your servant” ~ Matt 23:11
01/19/10 Submitted by: John Sachse
Ray V. Kennedy
BMCM Ray V. Kennedy, 81 of Jacksonville Beach, Florida passed away on 5 January 2010 after a lengthy illness. He was born in Atwater, Ohio and had been a resident of Jacksonville Beach since 1970. Ray retired from active duty on 1 July 1974, and during his 26-year career he served in Alaska; Cape May, New Jersey; Baltimore, Maryland; Key West Florida; and his last duty station, Mayport, Florida. He was an avid golfer who thoroughly enjoyed not only the view of Jacksonville Beach Golf Club and course from his backyard, but also the time he spent playing the game. He is survived by his wife Yvonne; daughters Doris Bisson, Lucille Loraine, and Claire Fry; six grandchildren; and fourteen great-grandchildren. A memorial service was held in Jacksonville Beach on 8 January 2010, and he will be interred at Jacksonville National Cemetery on 20 January 2010 at 1:30 p.m. I served with Ray on the USCGC Southwind in Baltimore, Maryland in the late 1960s, and I distinctly remember him as an outstanding Chief Petty Officer who was an exceptional leader, led by example, and will be sorely missed by all who were fortunate to have known and served with him. Fair winds and following seas to you Ray on your final voyage.
01/17/10 Submitted by: Edward Clancy, Jr.
Phil Fleisig
Philip Franklyn Fleisig August 8, 1917 - January 8, 2010 Resident of Tracy Born in San Francisco to Frank and Bessie Fabian Fleisig, grandson of Isaac and Sarah Fleisig of Soquel and Philip and Annie Fabian of Tracy and San Francisco, Philip Franklyn Fleisig completed his life-long career of private entreneurship and public service on January 8, 2010 at home in Tracy. Moving to Tracy in the very early 1920s, Fleisig worked throughout his youth in the family's feed store, horse dealership, and public scale business. Attending Tracy public schools until transferring for his senior year of high school in Berkeley preparatory to entering the University of California, Berkeley In 1933 he met Dorothy ('Dodie') Virginia Larson, who would become his life partner, marrying in 1940. Inspired by observations in Berkeley, he began his life of public service during school breaks by organizing the first school crossing guards in Tracy. Following college, he returned to active participation in the family businesses. After the outbreak of World War II, Fleisig was employed at the Union Diesel plant in Oakland building ship engines. Entering the service, drawing upon his experience as Cadet Colonel of the Berkeley ROTC, he served as a Drill Instructor at Fort Knox, Kentucky, then as a tank commander under General George S. Patton. Fleisig then volunteered for the Army's Counter Intelligence Corps and served throughout the Pacific theater, most notably as training officer for a Philippine guerilla army on Luzon prior to General MacArthur's reinvasion of The Philippines, earning a Bronze Star Medal with an additional stars among other citations and battle ribbons with multiple beachheads. His service in Japan included leading a small detachment of Counter Intelligence Corps to demilitarize and disarm civilian forces and individuals ahead of the arrival of the main occupation forces. Later he served on the War Crimes Tribunal, returning to California in 1946 to assume control of the family feed business, principally selling Best, Ranch Way, and Leslie brands, and the Public Scale. Twin sons, Frank and Bill, arrived in 1947, and Fleisig's activities accelerated. In 1948 he served as Dodie's Worthy Patron of the Eastern Star. He served as Master of Mount Oso Lodge #360, Ancient Free and Accepted Masons (1952), becoming a 32nd degree Master Mason, and then as President of Ben Ali Shrine Club (1955). He is a lifetime supporter of the Shriners' Children's Hospital. Fleisig was president of the Western Horse and Trailer Club in Banta, and served as Captain of the San Joaquin County Sheriff's Posse until 1960, directing Search and Rescue missions and their parade unit. Fleisig later became a real estate broker, serving as President of the Realty Board, and an insurance broker, representing Royal Globe and others. He served for years on the Safety Council of the City of Tracy. A life-long duck hunter, he was active in the Stockton Ducks Unlimited organization. Later, he and Dodie were among the founding organizers of the Tracy Chapter of Ducks Unlimited. He shot PITA trap, winning the Sacramento Diamond Invitational among other meets, and became a Lifetime Member of the NRA. He and Dodie participated in the Sierra League Trap League into their 80s. He remains a Charter Member of the Waterloo Gun and Bocci Club in Stockton. For nearly three decades they both taught Hunter Safety classes throughout the Central Valley under the auspices of the California Department of Fish and Game. In 1958 he and wife Dorothy ('Dodie') joined the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary, establishing the inaugural South Delta Patrol, dedicated to boating safety, education, and search and rescue. Fleisig served as Flotilla Commander in Bethel Island, Division Captain of San Joaquin division, and Commodore of the Twelfth Coast Guard District, head-quartered in San Francisco. Eventually he served on the National Board of the Coast Guard Auxiliary. He and Dodie wrote and taught many training classes, including supervising the annual National Search and Rescue Training Mission on Lake Powell. They remained active patrolling and training the remainder of their lives, aboard three successive craft named, 'Gadwall,' receiving Outstanding Auxiliarist Awards in 2000 and Fifty Year Citations from the United States Coast Guard Commandant in 2008. In 1975 he assumed trusteeship of the Fabian Ranch, dating back to 1878 on Rancho El Pescadero, the first island north of Tracy, from Uncle Neil B. Fabian. He served as a Director of Reclamation District #773 for over 20 years. Fleisig is survived by Dodie, his wife of 69 years, son Frank Fleisig (Anne) of Mansfield, Texas, son Bill Fleisig (Neff) of Turlock, granddaughter Sarah Powers (Jason) and great-grand-daughter, Meredith of Los Angeles, and grandson Kirk Fleisig of Torrance. Remembrances can be made in his name to: Shriners Hospitals for Children, 2425 Stockton Boulevard, Sacramento, CA 95817. No Services.
01/10/10 Submitted by: Steve Wheeler
Kenneth Clifford Garrison
Oregon Native, Pearl Harbor Survivor and patriarch Kenneth Clifford Garrison went peacefully to walk with his Lord and Savior at his home in Tigard, Ore., Jan. 2.
Garrison was born Sept. 4, 1921 in Forest Grove, Ore., to Charles and Gertrude (Raymond) Garrison.
He is survived by his beloved wife of 67 years, Lila of Tigard; son Clifford and wife Judy Garrison of Skamokawa, Wash., son Wayne and wife Darla Garrison of Tigard, daughter Judy and husband John Alholm of Longview, Wash., son Charles Garrison of Kelso, Wash., daughter Tamara and husband Harlan Buoy of Craig, Alaska and daughter Laura and husband Timothy Watson of Aloha, Ore., and sister Ruth Strasz of Detroit, Mich. He was very proud of his large family of 20 grandchildren, 42 great-grandchildren, 2 great-great grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews.
He is preceded in death by his mother and father, sisters, Juanita Underhill, Codessa Alcon, Virginia Poulson, and Violet Weiss, and brother Virgil 'Rex' Brooks.
He enlisted in the Navy in Portland, Ore., in 1940. Upon graduation from boot camp he was assigned to the USS Nevada. He was on duty during the attack on Pearl Harbor, Dec 7, 1941 and was commended 'for his courage, skill and devotion to duty, while in action against strong enemy strafing, bombing and torpedo attack at Pearl Harbor'.
He was involved in eight major engagements during WWII. During the war he also served on USS St. Louis and was a plank owner on the USS Boxer. After serving six years in the Navy, he enlisted in the U.S. Coast Guard in 1947 and proudly served until his retirement in 1963. He advanced through the enlisted ranks to retire as a Chief Warrant Officer. Upon retirement, he worked for the City of Sweet Home, Ore., the school district in Ketchikan, Alaska, Montgomery Ward in Portland and then Tektronix in Beaverton, Ore., until his second retirement.
Garrison was an active member of the Pearl Harbor Survivors Association (past President), Fleet Reserve, Retired Officers Association, Elks, American Legion and Veteran's of Foreign Wars (past Post Commander and Chaplain). He was an Elder at Our Redeemer Lutheran Church in Tigard. He actively volunteered delivering meals for Meals-on-Wheels, transporting patients to physician and clinic appointments, and arranging for medication refills for homebound former military personnel. He was a 'go-to-guy' always ready to help those in need.
He was known by friends and family members as Ken or Sam. To Coasties, he was known as 'Gabby'. He was normally a man of few words and chose to reserve them for when he had something profound to say.
When he first enlisted he had an 8th grade education. He quickly realized that in order to succeed in life he would need to expand his knowledge in a broad range of subjects. He completed a high school equivalent degree. He was a voracious reader of history and technical books and attended several military and civilian technical schools and college courses. He advocated lifelong learning. He lead by example, being fair and respectful of all peoples no matter their race, color or creed.
A viewing will be held Jan., 6, 7 and 8th at the family residence at 11150 SW 119th; Tigard from 2 PM to 8 PM. Funeral services will be held at Our Redeemer Lutheran Church at 13401 SW Benish St in Tigard (at the corner of Walnut & 135th) on Saturday at 10 AM. Internment will follow at Fern Hill Cemetery in Skamokawa at 2 PM.
In lieu of flowers, contributions are suggested in Kenneth's name to St Jude's Children's Hospital in Memphis, Tenn.
As we bid adieu to his physical presence on this earth, we wish him 'Fair Winds and a Following Sea'.
01/06/10 Submitted by: Keith Alholm
MK3 Tom J Szilvagyi
TJ passed away at home, in Kitty Hawk, from cancer on Decemeber 21, 2009. I have not seen or talked to him in 30 years. Just after the first of Dec., of 2009, I located him and had a short conversation. He told me he was sick and told me he should be done with treatment by Jan. 2010. That was a visit I had planned to make. Roland Bowser called on the 28th to let me know he had passed. His wife told me he was just as I remembered him. Never had a bad thing to say about anyone and was always there when you needed something. Also learned Tom passed as a Christian and was dedicated to his church. He did not know about the illness til July of 2009 and it rapidly over took his body. This was a fine man. Incidently, TJ served at Oregon Inlet and Swansboro, NC in the 70's.
12/30/09 Submitted by: David Craft
MK3 Tom J Szilvagyi
TJ passed away at home, in Kitty Hawk, from cancer on Decemeber 21, 2009. I have not seen or talked to him in 30 years. Just after the first of Dec., of 2009, I located him and had a short conversation. He told me he was sick and told me he should be done with treatment by Jan. 2010. That was a visit I had planned to make. Roland Bowser called on the 28th to let me know he had passed. His wife told me he was just as I remembered him. Never had a bad thing to say about anyone and was always there when you needed something. Also learned Tom passed as a Christian and was dedicated to his church. He did not know about the illness til July of 2009 and it rapidly over took his body. This was a fine man.
12/30/09 Submitted by: David Craft
