Honoring World War II and Korean War Veterans As They Die

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It is estimated that there are 2 million World War II veterans left alive.  Many that served in World War II also served in the Korean War. The World War II veterans have a memorial on the mall in DC erected too late for many of them. Honor Flights are occurring nation wide to help these aging veterans see their memorial constructed after the Vietnam and Korean War Memorials were built on the mall. The Gulf War Veterans and the Veterans of OIF/EF still await a place on the mall. The families of our current wars gather at Arlington Cemetery.

 A memorial is not what is being pushed by Gulf War Veterans, although it would be nice to have a gathering site on the mall for the living and the ill that suffer from Gulf War Illness. Memorials are things for history and to teach the young.

But health care and treatment is what the Gulf War Veterans have led the charge for since the first hearings in November of 1993. Answers, acknowledgement, and fair compensation for this group of veterans, the Gulf War Veterans I, is still hard to tackle.

The Gulf War Veterans of Operation Desert Storm want the memorial to be to learn from the lessons of the past and forever make a change in the way soldiers that are exposed to toxins are treated in the future, that would be a living memorial. Utilizing advancements in science and medicine to recognize the toxins, identify their effects, and to mitigrate the effects on the body sytems at the earliest point so that the lives of the soldiers and those exposed will be more productive longer. To counter the effects medically in order to save these productive lives and to counter the toxic effects on their health. The end term could turn the pyramid upside down. If we acknowledge the damages done, steps can be taken to counter the ill effects at the earliest stage, possibly returning them to a healthier state.

The veterans of the gulf war did not go out automatically for just compensation, many of them just wanted a quality of life to enjoy. Many of them would prefer to be able to have their lives back and be able to be employed and make it through a day with out the overwhelming fatigue that follows activity, or the pains termed fibromyalgia, or the neurocognitive difficulties that seem to mirror althemziers disease, or the inconvenience of IBS.

But many of our veterans of Gulf War I and the current wars had relatives sometimes decades worth that served in prior wars. So we will not forget the sacrifices of World War II or Korean War.

Korean War veterans sufferred for years as a result of injuries sustained by the cold extreme weather that they endured. The Gulf War Veterans and our
current war veterans are experiencing extremes of weather both heat and cold.
After all World War II was ended after the atomic bombs were used. Atomic Veterans are covered for almost every cancer. The Gulf War was the conflict that ushered in the use of depleted uranium weapontry and history will eventually show if we have an explosion of cancers in this group of veterans. Maybe we should be proactive and look at the Atomic Veterans and the Agent Orange veterans and use that experience to justify preemptively covering these younger veterans for cancers and other conditions identified with agent orange another toxin.

Registries of each veteran of the gulf war and the type of cancer or health condition and as soon as they are approaching the known expected rate of occurrence based on population per thousand the veterans need to be compensated and a method to also compensate the survivors of the gulf war veterans that developed those cancers or other health conditions early.
Why must we keep repeating the errors of the past? Why cann’t we think of a living memorial as something that will help those veterans still living. WE honor those that have died by better serving those that are living.

Here is the list of deaths of World War II and Korean Veterans that have died in the past month. It is not a total list. It is a list of those that as I read their obituaries stand out as history lessons. It is a tribute to their collective spirit and to remind citizens of who they were that laid their lives on the line. That came back and lived among you, that continued to give, no doubt many of them carried memories of the war every day of their lives. Many suffered from war injuries visible and not so visible. Many never asked for compensation for health problems, many never received help, many sufferred quietly. Veterans are stoic to pain and hide their pain until they break. That is part of why they are able to do what they do in war time.

In memory of our recent WWII and Korean War Veterans who have died recently.

Eugene Legs J. Robidoux |

Eugene Legs Joseph Robidoux, age 95, and a longtime resident of Bedford, died Friday, May 7, 2010, at Emerson Hospital in Concord, and the Last Taps for Local World War II Veteran. Born in Fall River, Nov. 2, 1914, he graduated from Durfee High School and later attended Bryant and Stratton College where as a deans list student he received his B.S. Degree in Accounting from the School of Business Administration. Wanting to serve his country during World War II, he enlisted in the U.S. Army as a Combat Engineer with the 6th and 25th Armored Division/Armored Engineers Battalion and later was recruited into the Paratroopers. Although he was an Officer (Captain) he insisted on accompanying his men on each mission and refused to ask anyone serving under him to do anything I wouldnt do. He participated in numerous campaigns during World War II: Ardennes, Rhineland, Naples-Foggia, Rome-Arno, Tunisian and numerous battles in Central Europe. He was wounded in Germany six months before the war in Europe ended. During his service to his country he received numerous decorations including: the World War II Victory Ribbon, European African Middle Eastern Theater Ribbon, Purple Heart, American Theater Ribbon and he also received the Bronze Battle Star and Silver Battle Star for Bravery under fire. If you were to ask him of his proudest moment while serving his country he would say it was being given the trust and opportunity to lead his men during a night time low altitude jump behind enemy lines that resulted in the liberation of two concentration camps. It was during the second liberation that he was wounded. After an 11 month recovery at Tilton General Hospital at Fort Dix he received an Honorable Discharge and continued to serve his country as a civilian in the role of finance controller for the Electronic Systems Division at Hanscom A.F.B. until his retirement. During the 1960s he was instrumental in establishing Minuteman Councils Boy Scout Troop 114 at St. Michaels Church where he has been a parish member since the early 1960s. He also enjoyed the adventures of his numerous fishing and camping excursions. Eugene is survived by his loving wife Kinoko; his daughter Jeanne and her husband Robert and their three children Ian, Derek and Matthew from Severna Park, Md.; his son Gene and his wife Judith and their children Matthew and Danielle from Newburyport; and his daughter Jacqueline and her husband Allan from Indio, Calif. The funeral service was held Tuesday, May 11, 2010, at Shawsheen Funeral Home in Bedford. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Disabled American Veterans, P.O. Box 14301, Cincinnati, OH 45250-0301.

Published in The Newburyport Current from May 11 to May 18, 2010

Gordon B. Pirtle |
Gordon B. Pirtle, age 85, of West Frankfort, departed this life Wednesday, May 26, 2010, in Stonebridge Senior Living Center. Gordon was born in Grand Tower, to Carl and Frances (East) Pirtle on August 6, 1924. He began grade school in Grand Tower and would later move to Murphysboro, DuQuoin and then to West Frankfort where he attended Frankfort Community High School. He was drafted during World War II in his senior year of high school and served on the battleship USS Hornet in the South Pacific. He received a Presidential Unit Citation from the Secretary of the Navy for extraordinary heroism in action against enemy Japanese forced in the air, ashore in the Pacific War Area from March 29, 1944 to June 10 1945. The ship would go through a typhoon during their voyages. He would later be awarded his High School Diploma. In May 2001 his brother, Wayne, made arrangements for the two of them to make a trip to California whee they visited the USS Hornet Museum moored in the San Francisco Bay at Alameda Point, Pier 3. A warrior, explorer, and now an educational facility. The USS Hornet Museum if focused on navel aviation, World War II history, and science and space technology. Peacefully docked at Alameda Point on San Francisco Bay, the USS Hornet Museum is a timeless reminder of the men and women who defend our country’s freedom and to those brave individuals who pursued America’s technological advancements. Gordon enjoyed the trip immensely and they were able to go on different parts of the ship that had been off limits to some personnel during the was years and most civilians after the was. A live interview was conducted of Pirtle to be placed in their archives. He was one of several Veterans of World War II that were saluted by the Orient American Legion Post 1961. All veterans of World War II present were recognized and received a certificate of appreciation at the May 2004 celebration. This was the same day the approximately one million visitors were expected to gather in Washington DC, to dedicate the first national monument honoring those who served and sacrificed in World War II. He was an accomplished pilot during the latter 40’s when there was an airport located on the western side of West Frankfort, and his love of planes stayed with him during his lifetime. Before his health declined, he always attended the Osh Gosh Fly In’s held in Osh Gosh, Wisconsin each year, and any other Air Shows of Fly-In’s including Model Airplane Shows within driving distance. He also loved riding his motorcycle in his younger days. He enjoyed photography and took lots of pictures, especially of airplanes, and going to hear his brother place music. He enjoyed going out for coffee with the guys at Hardee’s every morning and he was also very proud of the large tulip tree in the front yard of his mother’s home that was so beautiful each spring. Survivors include his brother, Wayne Pirtle and wife Freda of West Frankfort; sister Pat Pirtle Morgan of West Frankfort; niece Robin Carr of West Frankfort; nephew John Morgan and wife Tammy of Paducah, Kentucky; great nieces and nephews Amy (David) Broy, Wesley Morgan, and Lexi Morgan and great niece Macy Broy. He was preceded in death by his father who died in 1962 and his mother who died in February 2001, one brother Milton Pirtle, March 1985; and brother-in-law Jack Morgan, November 2009. Gordon was baptized November 9, 2003, and joined the First Baptist Church in West Frankfort where he faithfully attended. His working years were for Caterpillar in Peoria for 35 years, retiring in 1982 in West Frankfort. he was the devoted caregiver of his mother for the last 10 years of her life. Graveside funeral services will be held 1:30 p.m., Saturday, May 29, 2010, in Denning Cemetery with Rev. Mike Cash Officiating. Military services will be provided by Orient American Legion Post 1961, Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 5764, and active Navy personnel. Friends of the Gordon Pirtle family are asked to go directly to the cemetery on Saturday. For those who wish, memorial contributions may be made to TIP Hospice and will accepted at Varis-Stone Funeral Home at any time. Varis-Stone Funeral Home has been entrusted with the arrangements. Thanks are extended to the Stonebridge Living Center and all the employees who so faithfully took loving care of Gordon during his stay there, and to Tip Hospice for their loving care. We cannot control the movement of time, Nor can we control our own destiny or the destinies of those we love. But we can take comfort in knowing that those who have lived in out hearts are never really gone. For as long as we keep them with us in our hearts and in our thoughts they will be with us always. For love is timeless, never ceases to exist. ~Unknown

Published in Daily American News from May 28 to May 29, 2010

OLIVER HEWELL ATCHISON |

ATCHISON, OLIVER HEWELL, whose remarkable life mirrored the qualities of “the Greatest Generation,” died May 18, 2010, in Birmingham. He was 93. Born March 30, 1917, in Bigbee, Al., Mr. Atchison was the oldest child of William Edward and Callie Daniels Atchison. The family moved to Birmingham when Mr. Atchison was a boy. It was there he met and married his beloved wife of more than 72 years, Paralee (Sissie) McClung. They remained inseparable and devoted to each other until his death. Mr. Atchison was a highly decorated P-38 Lightning pilot in the United States Army Air Force during World War II, serving in the Pacific Theatre for almost three full years. His Lightning — named “Sissie” in honor of his wife — was a familiar sight in the skies over the Pacific for much of the brutal and long war with Japan. After attaining the rank of Captain, he was named Operations Officer for the 7th Fighter Squadron in the 49th Fighter Group of the 5th Air Force. Although the horrors of war never left him, Mr. Atchison cherished the many life-long relationships he made with his fellow officers and airmen. He attended numerous reunions of his squadron over the years and maintained contact with a host of war time friends even as the number dwindled year after year. Mr. Atchison’s often repeated, but unfulfilled wish, was to sit just one more time in a P-38 cockpit as it roared into the sky. He did, however, spend a wonderful and memorable day in Washington, D.C. visiting the World War II Memorial as a member of one of the “Freedom Flights.” He often said it was one of the best days of his life. After returning from the war, Mr. Atchison entered business in Birmingham with his father and brother. He later moved to Nashville with the Forest Allen Tile Co. before opening his own business in Franklin, TN. He retired to a farm in Cullman County, AL where he lived with his wife for more than 25 years before returning to Birmingham in 2008. Blessed with an insatiable intellect, Mr. Atchison was a voracious reader of everything, a listener of music — both good and bad — and a Bible scholar of some note. He had a delightful sense of humor and his memory never ceased to amaze with its pitch-perfect recall of just about everything and everyone. All remained with him to the end. Mr. Atchison’s parents and two brothers, Robert and Roy, predeceased him. Both siblings were killed while serving their country in World War II. Mr. Atchison is survived by his wife, four sons, Dr. David Atchison (Jane) of Ruston, LA, Mike (Sheila), Larry and Dick Atchison (Jody), all of Birmingham; two brothers, Warren Atchison (Ruby) of Raleigh, NC, Dr. William Atchison (Reba), of Destin, FL and one sister, Esther Stuart (Herbert) of Nashville, TN: eight grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. In a final act of love and charity, Mr. Atchison donated his body to the University of Alabama Medical School. A memorial service will be held on June 14, 2010, beginning at 11:00 a.m. in the sanctuary of Aldersgate United Methodist Church in Birmingham with a reception to follow. Mr. Atchison asked that his church, Aldersgate United Methodist, or the American Heart Association be remembered in lieu of flowers. He also requested that his obituary include the following from John Gillespie Magee, Jr.’s poem “High Flight.” “Oh, I have slipped the surly bonds of earth, And danced the skies on laughter silvered wings… Put out my hand and touched the face of GOD.” ?? ?? ?? ?? 1831386 v1 Published in The Birmingham News from May 23 to May 24, 2010

Armando Camina

Armando Saldaña Camiña, born in San Antonio, Texas on May 22, 1922 to Constantino Sueiro Camiña of Galicia, Spain and Pauline Saldaña Camiña of San Antonio, Texas. Armando grew up in San Antonio and attended Ralph Waldo Emerson High School. He enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1939 and was assigned to the 1st Infantry Division, the “Big Red One.” During World War II he served and fought in several famous battles including the D-Day Invasion at Omaha Beach, Normandy, France (June 6, 1944), the Battle of the Bulge, Ardennes, Belgium (December 1944), Operation Husky, Sicily (July 1943), Battle of the Kasserine Pass, Tunesia (February 1943), and Operation Torch, Oran, Algeria (November 1942). For his heroism and bravery in action, he was awarded the Silver Star, the Bronze Star, the Presidential Unit Citation, the European-African-Middle Eastern Campaign medal, the World War II Victory Medal, the World War II Service Medal, and the American Campaign Medal. In 2009, the Nimitz Museum in Fredrickburg, Texas dedicated a plaque to Armando Camiña and his three brothers who all served in World War II. Armando was honorably discharged and continued to serve his country as a civil servant. First, he went to work for the United States Agricultural Department where he was sent to Morelia, Mexico to help with animal vaccinations. There he met his bride, Carmen Serrano and returned to San Antonio. Upon returning from Mexico he joined the United States…
Armando Saldaña Camiña, born in San Antonio, Texas on May 22, 1922 to Constantino Sueiro Camiña of Galicia, Spain and Pauline Saldaña Camiña of San Antonio, Texas. Armando grew up in San Antonio and attended Ralph Waldo Emerson High School. He enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1939 and was assigned to the 1st Infantry Division, the “Big Red One.” During World War II he served and fought in several famous battles including the D-Day Invasion at Omaha Beach, Normandy, France (June 6, 1944), the Battle of the Bulge, Ardennes, Belgium (December 1944), Operation Husky, Sicily (July 1943), Battle of the Kasserine Pass, Tunesia (February 1943), and Operation Torch, Oran, Algeria (November 1942). For his heroism and bravery in action, he was awarded the Silver Star, the Bronze Star, the Presidential Unit Citation, the European-African-Middle Eastern Campaign medal, the World War II Victory Medal, the World War II Service Medal, and the American Campaign Medal. In 2009, the Nimitz Museum in Fredrickburg, Texas dedicated a plaque to Armando Camiña and his three brothers who all served in World War II. Armando was honorably discharged and continued to serve his country as a civil servant. First, he went to work for the United States Agricultural Department where he was sent to Morelia, Mexico to help with animal vaccinations. There he met his bride, Carmen Serrano and returned to San Antonio. Upon returning from Mexico he joined the United States Postal Service, from which he retired in 1983. After retirement, Armando kept busy with volunteer work. He remained active in the church and was a 3rd and 4th degree in the Knights of Columbus. Armando had a lifelong love of baseball and ice cream. He was devoted to his Little League team which he coached and to his favorite team, the Houston Astros. As a young man Armando would take his nieces, and later his own children, to have “Black Cows” at Weber’s and whenever his Little Team won a game, he would take them to have ice cream. Armando was preceded in death by his parents; his four brothers Constantino, Jose, Ernest and his twin brother Robert. He is survived by his wife of 58 years, Carmen Serrano Camiña; sister Olivia Camiña Flores; son Armando Camiña, Jr.; daughter Ophelia Camiña and her husband Jim Flegle; grandchildren Ariana Camiña, Alexandra Flegle and James Flegle, as well as many nieces, nephews and loving family members. The family will receive friends at 4:00 p.m., Friday, May 28, 2010 at Funeraria Del Angel Roy Akers for a Rosary being recited at 7:00 p.m. A funeral Mass will be celebrated at 9:30 a.m., Saturday, May 29, 2010 at St. Helena Catholic Church. The family will receive friends at the church. Interment will follow at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers the family requests donations be made to St. Helena Catholic Church or the American Diabetes Association. Please visit www.rakersfuneralhome.com for online tributes.

Thomas de Triquet |
Thomas J. de Triquet SUFFOLK – Thomas J. de Triquet, 91, a United States Army World War II veteran of two Pacific Theatre campaigns, who later enjoyed a successful 30-year career as a Department of the Navy engineer, and in retirement pursued numerous hobbies reflecting his lifelong interest in conservation, passed away peacefully May 15, 2010 surrounded by his loving family. He was born Dec. 17, 1918 in Newark, NJ., the son of the late Elizabeth and Thomas Triquet. Mr. de Triquet was a descendant from 17th century French Huguenot immigrants to America who settled in New York state. He was the oldest of three siblings. On June 20, 1942, he married Concetta Ann Comerci, who survives him. During his life, Mr. de Triquet resided in Newark, West Caldwell and Wantage, N.J., before relocating to Chesapeake in 1994. A lifelong member of the Boy Scouts of America, he attained the rank of Eagle Scout. He graduated from the Newark College of Engineering and later received a master’s degree in history from Seton Hall University. Mr. de Triquet served in the United States Army during World War II as an enlisted soldier in both the New Guinea and the Philippines campaigns. He remained in the U.S. Army Reserve during the Cold War, received an officer’s commission and retired as a captain. Following World War II he was employed for 30 years as a navigational and supervisory engineer at the U.S. Naval Applied Science Laboratory at the Brooklyn Navy Yard in New York. In this capacity, he was part of the team that developed the guidance systems for the Polaris missile system, an important Cold War deterrent. After retiring, he renewed his involvement in the Boy Scouts and was awarded the Silver Pelican Award and Saint George Medal for his service. An avid naturalist, bee keeper, historian and genealogist, he passed on his intellectual curiosity, love of country and adherence to the highest ethical standards to all of his children and grandchildren. Mr. de Triquet was a proud member of the Huguenot Society of America, the Veterans of Foreign Wars and the American Legion. He is survived by his son and daughter-in-law, Thomas and Thu Huong de Triquet of Centreville, Va.; son and daughter-in-law, John and Carole de Triquet of Chesapeake; son, Richard de Triquet of Fredericksburg, Va.; daughter, Anna-Maria Rizzuto of Toms River, N.J.; daughter and son-in-law. Marianne and Philip Gordon of Denver; and grandchildren Thomas, Genevieve, Christine, John, Richard, Thomas, Robert, Michael, Veronica, Diana, Stephanie and Rachel. A private Roman Catholic funeral will be held at St. Theresa Church in Chesapeake, followed by internment at Gate of Heaven Cemetery in East Hanover, N.J. Arrangements are under the care and direction of Oman Funeral Home & Crematory, Great Bridge Chapel. Friends are invited to sign the online guestbook at www. omanfh.com.

Published in The Virginian Pilot on May 16, 2010

Clyde L. Willhoit

Clyde L. Willhoit, former Chattanooga Chief of Police, died Tuesday, May 25, 2010 at the age of 87. He was born June 25, 1922 in Bradley County, TN and later his family moved to Chattanooga where he attended Ridge Elementary School, Brainerd Junior High, Central High School and Cleveland State College. At the age of 20 Willhoit volunteered with the U. S. Army Air Corps on October 7, 1942 and served during World War II with the 449th Bomber Group known as the “Flying Horsemen” based in Italy where he flew 45 missions as a radioman. Fifty missions was the maximum permitted any service member; the odds of being shot down and killed or captured were extremely high. The 449th Bomber Group’s main emphasis was in the Italian Theater of Operation flying missions over Northern Italy, Southern France and Southern Germany. The work of the 449th is credited with shortening the war in Europe by effectively shutting down Nazi supply and transportation capabilities including shutting off petroleum. The later disallowed Germany from training new pilots though they had plenty of aircraft. Willhoit entered the service as a private and retired 33 years later as a Colonel. He continued his military service in the Army Reserve until his retirement and was recalled to active duty during the Vietnam War as a survivor’s assistant. The day after Willhoit returned from the war he went to work for the U. S. Post Office and later joined the Tennessee Highway Patrol where he returned decades…
Clyde L. Willhoit, former Chattanooga Chief of Police, died Tuesday, May 25, 2010 at the age of 87. He was born June 25, 1922 in Bradley County, TN and later his family moved to Chattanooga where he attended Ridge Elementary School, Brainerd Junior High, Central High School and Cleveland State College.
At the age of 20 Willhoit volunteered with the U. S. Army Air Corps on October 7, 1942 and served during World War II with the 449th Bomber Group known as the “Flying Horsemen” based in Italy where he flew 45 missions as a radioman. Fifty missions was the maximum permitted any service member; the odds of being shot down and killed or captured were extremely high.
The 449th Bomber Group’s main emphasis was in the Italian Theater of Operation flying missions over Northern Italy, Southern France and Southern Germany. The work of the 449th is credited with shortening the war in Europe by effectively shutting down Nazi supply and transportation capabilities including shutting off petroleum. The later disallowed Germany from training new pilots though they had plenty of aircraft.
Willhoit entered the service as a private and retired 33 years later as a Colonel. He continued his military service in the Army Reserve until his retirement and was recalled to active duty during the Vietnam War as a survivor’s assistant.
The day after Willhoit returned from the war he went to work for the U. S. Post Office and later joined the Tennessee Highway Patrol where he returned decades later as the THP’s Executive Officer during the Patrol’s 50th Anniversary.
Willhoit would say that his proudest achievement was convincing Mary Ruth Smith Willhoit to marry him which she did on November 10, 1945. The couple was married 62 years with Mary Ruth passing November 4, 2007.
Clyde said he was introduced to Mary Ruth by a mutual friend. Mary Ruth was a nurse at Baroness Erlanger Hospital where she had served during World War II associated with the Army WAC. Clyde was instantly attracted to Mary Ruth and sought to date her arriving in a sharp convertible. A double date was arranged whereupon during the date Mary Ruth said Clyde’s car literally ran out of gas! They were constant companions raising four children. In later life, the two very much enjoyed traveling to annual meetings of his old 449th Bomber Group at locations all over the U. S. and once in Germany. In 2004 Willhoit helped arrange the meeting of his old group at the Chattanooga Choo-Choo at the group’s 14th Reunion with over 100 persons in attendance.
Al Allen, now 89 and living in Peoria, IL was also a Member of the 449th. Though he and Willhoit did not serve in the same unit he said that Brigade had over 2,000 personnel – 600 of whom were flyers. They flew in the P24J Bomber and he recalled a mission over Albania when they saw over 6,000 Nazi troops in a parade. Allen said the group flew in at less than 1,000 feet and wiped out the enemy soldiers below. Less than 500 of the Brigade Members survive today.
Willhoit was sworn in to the Chattanooga Police Department on August 10, 1948 as a Patrolman working his way up through the ranks to become Chief of Police in 1976. He retired in 1979 with 33 years of service.
Chief Willhoit was among the first enrollees at the then new Cleveland State Community College in 1967 where he received an Associate’s Degree in Criminal Justice. He was a Certified Senior Radio Engineer who was instrumental to moving the CPD from the VHF to UHF Radios in the 1970’s which for the first time allowed officers to carry radios with them when away from their squad cars.
Following his retirement from the Chattanooga Police Department Willhoit was asked by the new State Commissioner of Safety Gene Roberts to join him in Nashville when Governor Lamar Alexander was elected. At his departure from the Department of Safety Willhoit returned to Chattanooga and he and his beloved Mary Ruth built the log cabin of their dreams on the farm in Bradley County complete with its own fishing pond.
But Willhoit’s service was not yet complete. Chattanooga Mayor Gene Roberts called on him once again to assume the duties of City Court Clerk during an important time of court growth and transition.
He was a member of Ridgedale Masonic Lodge, where he became a 32nd Degree York Rite Mason. Later he became a Member of the Alhambra Shrine Temple where he was an active member of the Bus Unit at the temple taking the children and parents to the Masonic Hospitals for treatment and surgery. He was a member of the Missionary Ridge Chapter Order of the Eastern Star
The 449th Bomber Group was part of Eighth Air Force, established in 1944 at High Wycombe Airdrome, USAAF, England. 8 AF was a United States Army Air Forces combat air force in the European Theater of World War II, engaging in operations primarily in the Northern Europe. It was the largest of the deployed combat Army Air Forces in numbers of personnel, aircraft and equipment.
Clyde and Mary Ruth had been active members of the Brainerd Baptist Church for over 60 years where he was on several committees. He was an avid fan of the University of Tennessee Volunteers and attended football and girls basketball games.
He and Mary Ruth enjoyed spending time with their family especially their grandchildren and great grandchildren hosting them on the family farm where Clyde also raised livestock and did farming in retirement.
Willhoit, while assistant chief of the Services Division at the CPD, was instrumental in assisting Roberts in unparalleled growth and professionalism of the police and fire departments with emphasis on increased personnel, training, education and equipment.
Willhoit also helped secure Federal Law Enforcement Assistance Administration (LEAA) funds for the building of the then new $1.5 million dollar Police Services Center in 1974. Willhoit had oversight for its building and location on Amnicola Highway. For the first time in many years, all divisions of the Chattanooga Police Department were placed under one roof. This site was selected because it was in the geographic center of the city.
Willhoit also led the effort that in 1972 saw the department acquire its first two helicopters. He also oversaw installation of a closed circuit television monitoring system in the City Jail and parts of City Hall for enhanced security.
A verified story is that late one night in the late 1960s Clyde and Chattanoogan Gene Pike met a flight at Lovell Field with the remains of a returning soldier killed in action in Vietnam. Upon inspection of the body, Pike says, it was evident that in transit that the corpse had purged soiling the shirt of the service member. Pike told Willhoit that the man had to have a replacement shirt, “and now.” Given the hour and circumstances, Willhoit removed his own shirt and put it on the man who had made the supreme sacrifice for his country. It is the perfect example of the life that Willhoit lived – always in service and consideration of others.
Willhoit is survived by four children and spouses: Ruby and George Roettger, Knoxville, TN C.L. and Gayle Willhoit, McDonald, TN, Mary Alice and Phil Neal, Lee’s Summit, MO and Clarence W. Willhoit, Chattanooga, TN; two brothers and Spouses: Rhoten and Jimmie Willhoit, Milton, Florida and Roy A. and Louise Willhoit, Chattanooga, TN; 10 grandchildren and spouses, Joel and Stacy Roettger, Knoxville, TN, Mark and Cristin Roettger, Maryville, TN, Allen and Melanie Huggins, Ooltewah, TN, Kandy Huggins and Chip Griffin, Chickamauga, GA, Laurel and Gary Abernathy, Chickamauga, GA, Richard Armstrong, Iowa City, IA, Maggie and Esteban Minsk, New Bern, NC, Josh Armstrong, Ft. Collins, CO, Jenni and Dustin Reeve, Blue Springs, MO, Jeremy Willhoit, Chattanooga, TN; 12 great-grandchildren, Noah, Ella, and Claire Roettger, Maryville, TN, Tristan, Bodie, and Piper Huggins, Ooltewah, TN, Christian Richards, Chickamauga, GA, Brooklyn Abernathy, Chickamauga, GA, Emma and Seth Minsk, New Bern, NC, Ethan Armstrong, Blue Springs, Mo, Sydney, Logan and Lawson Reeve, Blue Springs, MO, Paige Armstrong, Ft. Collins, CO.

Willhoit was preceded in death by his parents Aner P. and Ruby D. Willhoit and his wife Mary Ruth Smith Willhoit

The Family will receive guests at the Chattanooga Funeral Home East Chapel on Thursday starting at 3:00 p.m. Services will be held on Friday at 11:30 a.m. at the Brainerd Baptist Church with the Rev. Dr. Winford Hendricks presiding. Interment will follow at Chattanooga’s National Cemetery with full Military Honors at graveside.
Active pallbearers will be Allen Huggins, Jeremy Willhoit, Joel Roettger, Mark Roettger, Rich Armstrong and Esteban Minsk.
Honorary Pallbearers will be former mayor Gene Roberts, Bud Miller, Gary Abernathy, Chip Griffin, Ronald G. Eberhardt, J. Michael Pearson and Gene Pike, the Brainerd Baptist Church Dixon Sunday School Class and the Alhambra Bus Unit.
Ronald G. Eberhardt, of San Diego, formerly of Chattanooga and a longtime friend and associate of Willhoit will present a Eulogy on behalf of former mayor Gene Roberts.
In lieu of flowers the family requests that donations be sent to the Alhambra Shrine Bus Unit.

Dorothy Richards Morphew
WOODSTOCK, Ga. – Dorothy Richards Morphew, 91, of Englewood, Fla., and Cape Neddick, Maine, ascended from an angel on Earth to an angel in heaven, as she passed away peacefully in her sleep, surrounded by caregivers and family at the home of her son, Dana Bassett, just before sunrise Tuesday, April 13, 2010.

Dorothy was born Aug. 4, 1918, in Cambridge, Mass., to George R. Richards (who was killed in battle during World War I) and her loving mother and best friend, Evangeline Booth Richards, both originally of Newfoundland, Canada.

Dorothy was a graduate of the Boston Institute of Art and served with great honor (in World War II) as a U.S. Navy WAVE from 1944 to 1946. She then worked as a graphic artist and throughout her life, and taught various art classes – including painting, pottery, and ceramics. She also owned and ran several retail art businesses. In 1963, Dorothy became a licensed real estate broker and owned and operated Bassett Real Estate Company for the next 15 years, which grew to two offices and six employees.

She was listed in the Marquis Who’s Who of American Women for “demonstrating outstanding achievement …; and contributing to the betterment of contemporary society.” She was a member of the Rockingham County Board of Realtors; lifetime member of the U.S. Navy WAVES National, Maine Unit 41; the American Legion Auxiliary; the Englewood (Fla.) Art Center, the United States Golf Association, the Englewood (Fla.); and the United Methodist Church and the First Parish Congregational Church of York, Maine.

She was an accomplished tennis player while in the Navy, and was still playing golf and bowling at age 91. She was an avid reader, reading a dozen books a week, always with a cup of hot British tea by her side. She was a prolific and talented letter writer and artist – from creating crafts and pottery to magnificent paintings. Dorothy lived a life of faith and giving, always selfless and caring for others, even in her final days. Her concern was never for herself, but always for others. She leaves her family and friends with fond memories and an example of how to live with great dignity and high morals and faith; helping others and giving, always with love and grace.

She was predeceased by her beloved husband and lifelong friend of 20 years, Joseph W. Morphew (who served valiantly in the U.S. Navy during World War II), who passed away in 2002; and former husband of 26 years, Joseph A. Bassett (who served valiantly in the U.S. Army infantry during World War II), who passed away in 1999. She was also predeceased by brothers Harold and John Richards.

Surviving brothers are William Richards, of Beverly, Mass., and Gordon Richards, of Ryegate, Mont. She will forever be an angel and inspiration to her surviving sons, Jon Bassett, of Wells, Maine, Marc Bassett, of Carbondale, Colo., and Dana Bassett, of Woodstock, Ga.; and grandchildren, Joseph Bassett, of New Hampshire, Sara Bassett, of New Hampshire, Jeremiah Bassett, of Connecticut , Natalie Bassett, of Colorado, Tyler Bassett, of Georgia, and Chase Bassett, of Georgia; cousin Jeanne; and Aunt Kay Richards, 97, of St. John’s, Newfoundland; many other relatives in Newfoundland; and more than 30 nieces and nephews in the United States.

Special thanks to Dr. Juliette E. Coleman, of Venice, Fla., Dr. Joel W. Keenan, of York, Maine, and nurse and caregiver Salome Sadera, of Nairobi, Kenya, for helping us have another precious year with Dorothy – by the grace of God and Dorothy’s strong will and faith.

A memorial service celebrating a life well-lived will be held at 4 p.m. Mother’s Day, Sunday, May 9, at the First Parish Congregational Church, 180 York St., York, with military honors. Family and friends will gather after the service at a home on 83 Ocean Avenue Ext., near Short Sands Beach, overlooking the ocean at York Beach. In lieu of flowers, please donate to one of Dorothy’s favorite charities in her honor: the American Veterans Disabled for Life Memorial Foundation, the Salvation Army, or the St. Labre Native American Indian School, are suggested.

Frances M. Bielawski |

BIELAWSKI FRANCES MARY PONN BIELAWSKI A resident of Alexandria, Virginia, died April 30, 2010. Mrs. Bielawski was a native of Berchtesgaden, Germany, located in the German State of Bavaria. Mrs. Bielawski died as a result of complications related to Alzheimer”s. Frances, with the help and love of Melvin, battled Alzheimer”s for the past six years. Mrs. Bielawski (Franziska Maria Ponn) was born on December 9, 1923 in Obersalzberg/ Berchtesgaden, Germany, and was raised in the town of Berchtesgaden. Prior to her marriage to Mr. Bielawski, she was employed by the town”s newspaper, the Berchtesgadener-Anzeiger. She and her husband were married on August 25, 1947 in Berchtesgaden, Germany. Mrs. Bielawski”s marriage to Mr. Bielawski was one of the first post World War II approved marriages to take place between an American military service man and a German national. The American military placed a ban on marriages between American military personnel and German nationals immediately following the end of WW II. Gen. Eisenhower lifted the wedding ban January 1, 1947. The civil marriage, mandatory in Germany, was followed by a church ceremony in the Stifftskirche, a local Catholic Church in Berchtesgaden”s central square, by an Army Catholic Chaplain who came in from his station in Salzburg, Austria to perform the wedding ceremony. This was the first U.S. Army approved marriage between an American and a German national in Berchtesgaden and one of the first in all of Germany following the end of WW II. Hundreds of locals attended the church ceremony to observe this “first of its kind” wedding. Mrs. Bielawski was one of the first German war brides to accompany her husband from Germany to the United States aboard the USSH John H. Meany, formerly The USSH Zebulon Vance. This was the first ship to transport American military personnel and their German brides to the United States. Mrs. Bielawski and her husband settled in Toledo, Ohio, upon their arrival from Germany in October, 1947. Mrs. Bielawski accompanied her husband to Germany in 1957 where he was employed by the United States Army until April, 1965, when Mr. Bielawski was assigned to the Office of Comptroller in the Pentagon. The family settled in Alexandria, Virginia. In 1995 Mrs. Bielawski and her husband were featured in a German National Public Television documentary addressing the history and marriages of four German/American couples after WW II. The documentary appeared several times on German TV in 1995 and again in early 2005 in relation to the 60th Anniversary of the end of WW II. Mrs. Bielawski was the subject of two books (“A World War II German/American Love Story”), and “Diagnosis: Alzheimer”s”, subtitled “My Travels with Frances”. Both books were written by her husband Melvin Bielawski and detail their life together. At the time of her death, Melvin and Frances were married over 62 years. In addition to her husband, Mrs. Bielawski is survived by her sons and daughters-in-laws Robert (Frankie) of Roanoke, Gregory (Rosario) of Arlington, and David (Jane) of Stafford County, plus three grand-sons Robbie and Sean of Roanoke and Peter and grand-daughter Anna from Stafford County. She is also survived by a cousin in Scheffau/Berchtesgaden, Germany, and sister-in-law and several nephews and nieces in Toledo, Ohio. Mr. and Mrs. Bielawski were members of Good Shepherd Catholic Church in Mt. Vernon Virginia. Memorials can be made in her name to: Fisher Center for Alzheimer”s Research One Intrepid Square W 46th St. & 12th Ave. N.Y., N.Y. 10036

Published in The Washington Post on May 23, 2010

DANIEL A. RAYMOND |
Daniel Arthur Raymond Major General Daniel A. Raymond, a retired Army Major General who served during World War II and the Vietnam War, died on May 12, 2010 of cancer. He was 92. Services will be held at the Old Chapel, Ft. Myer, VA, 1 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 2, 2010, followed by burial with full military honors at Arlington National Cemetery. Major General (Retired) Daniel A. Raymond was born December 1, 1917 in Jacksonville, FL to the late Colonel Daniel Royal Raymond and the late Georgia Uhl Raymond. He graduated from South Philadelphia High School in Philadelphia, PA. He was the Deputy Chief of Engineers when he retired in 1975. His Army career spanned 39 years, including his first year in I Troop, 103rd Cavalry (horse) Regiment, 28th Division of the Pennsylvania National Guard while still in high school; a second year in the Regular Army as a Coast Guard Artilleryman at Fort Monroe, VA; four years at the United States Military Academy from which he graduated and was commissioned in 1942; and 33 years as a commissioned officer. During World War II he commanded a platoon in the 10th Engineer Combat Battalion of the 3rd Infantry Division, subsequently Company B of the same unit, and was Deputy Commander of this battalion at the conclusion of WWII. Intermittently during WWII he served with the Amphibious Force of the Atlantic Fleet and the 8th Amphibious Force in the Mediterranean Sea, encompassing four D-Days in North Africa, Sicily, Italty at Salerno, Southern France. Following WWII he served on the Staff and Faculty of The Infantry School and The Command and General Staff College. Between these assignments he received a Master’s Degree in Civil Engineering from Harvard University. He commanded the 13th Engineer Combat Battalion of the 7th Infantry Division in Korea and became the G-3 of the Division in the later months with the Division. Following Korea he became the Deputy District Engineer of the Okinawa Army Engineer District, after which he attended the Army War College at Carlisle Barracks, PA. Following the Army War College he commanded the multi-state Army Engineer District in Mobile, AL. A unique aspect of this assignment included support for the Marshall Space Flight Center of NASA at Redstone Arsenal, involving tests of the rocket propulsion for the Apollo Moon program. After three years in that capacity he had his first assignment in the Pentagon as Chief of the Engineer Personnel Branch. After only a year there he volunteered for Vietnam where he was assigned as the Theater Engineer for the Military Assistance Command, Vietnam. He was promoted to Brigadier General in this position. In this capacity in Vietnam he was responsible for building the base supporting the 500,000-strength force employed in that war. Subsequent to Vietnam the became Director of Construction supporting Southeast Asia in the Office of the Secretary of Defense. After two years in that capacity he became the Director of Worldwide Military Construction for the Chief of Army Engineers. His next change was to be Commander of the South Atlantic Division of the Corps comprised of the Districts of Wilmington, NC, Charleston, SC, Savannah, GA, Jacksonville, FL, and Mobile, AL. Finally he returned to the Chief’s Office as the Deputy Chief of Engineers, from which he retired in 1975. Among his awards are three Distinguished Service Medials, two Legions of Merit, two Bronze Stars for valor, and a Purple Heart. From 1975 to 1979 he worked for the World Bank as Port Engineer, East Africa Projects. He was pronounced to Senior Port Engineer in 1978. In 1983 he was one for the founding members of the Army Retirement Residence Foundation which resulted in the building of the Fairfax Retirement Company at Ft. Belvoir. In 1994 General and Mrs. Raymond moved to Ozark, where they were active in the First United Methodist Church. He served as President of the John Wesley Sunday School Class and as a member of the Administrative Board. He was also a member of the Ozark Rotary Club. General and Mrs. Raymond moved to The Fairfax Military Retirement Community in 1998, where he was a member of the Board of Directors, Army Retirement Residence Foundation – Potomac, a member of the Resident Council as Liaison for construction, and a Resident Council Chair 2001-2003. He is survived by his loving wife of 67 years, Barbara L. Raymond; three children, LTC (Retired) Daniel A. Raymond, Jr. (Marianne) of Hampton, VA, daughter, Barbara R. McLauchlin (Ben) of Ozark, LTC (Retired) Douglas C. Raymond (Mary Anne) of Clemson, SC; a sister, Geraldine R. Schweppe of Indianapolis, IN; nine grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren. In lieu of flowers the family requests that donations be made to the First United Methodist Church of Ozark.

Published in Dothan Eagle on May 23, 2010

GENE RICHARDS |
Gene Silas Richards 1922 ~ 2010 Gene Silas Richards, 87, passed away in Salt Lake City, Utah on May 9, 2010. He was born in Union, Utah on May 19, 1922 to James Earl and Myrtle Elizabeth Forbush Richards. Gene served 10 years in the United States Marine Corps and 10 years in the United States Air Force. He is a World War II veteran and a veteran of the Battle of Iwo Jima and the occupation of Japan. He was awarded the Good Conduct Medal, American Defense Medal with star, Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal with star, American Campaign Medal and the World War II Victory Medal. While in the United States Air Force he served as a Security Policeman and guarded nuclear weapons and air bases around the world. He competed on a national level with several United States Air Force marksmanship teams. Gene was a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He retired for Kennecott Copper Company as a security officer. Gene loved exploring the desert South West and enjoyed observing its wildlife. While in World War II he was stationed in Samoa and learned to speak Samoan and enjoyed conversing in it whenever the opportunity arose. He was a life member of the N.R.A. and supporter of the shooting sports. Above all he was a wonderful Father and Grandfather. Gene is survived by his son, Jim and his wife Stacia Richards of Coweta, Oklahoma; grandson, Steven of Tulsa, Oklahoma; grand-daughters, Danielle Perry of Owasso, Oklahoma and Allison Perry of Coweta, Oklahoma. He is survived by his brother, Don; sister, Mildred of California. He is also survived by close long time friend Iris Stratton who cared for and comforted him for over 27 years. Preceded in death by his parents; ex-wife, Margaret Jean Richards of McAlester, Oklahoma and many brothers and sisters. A graveside service will be held at 12 Noon on Thursday, May 13, 2010 at the Midvale City Cemetery, 450 W. 7500 S. A visitation will be held at Goff Mortuary, 8090 S. State Street from 10-11:30 a.m. prior to the graveside service. www.goffmortuary.com

Published in Deseret News on May 11, 2010

Lionel “Leo” Correia |
Correia, Lionel ‘Leo’ 91 08/14/1918 05/20/2010 Lionel “Leo” Correia, 91, died at home May 20, 2010, of bacterial pneumonia. Leo was born Aug. 14, 1918, in Taunton, Mass. He served in the U.S. Army Air Corps, seeing action in Europe during World War II. He married Earline Moxley in 1943; she preceded him in death in 2000. Upon leaving military service, Leo went to work for United Airlines in passenger service for 37 years. A resident of Portland, Leo was a member of St. Therese Catholic parish for 54 years. Other affiliations include the Retired United Airlines Employees Association, The Musical Company board of directors, life member of Gateway Elks, World War II Prisoner of War Association, the 95th Bomb Group, Toastmaster’s International and treasurer of David Douglas Dad’s Club. He loved traveling and enjoying time with his family. As a decorated World War II B-17 pilot, his stories and his life are a lasting treasure for all those who knew and adored him. He was a true gentleman and his loving and caring heart will be profoundly missed. Leo is survived by his daughters, Virginia Cardon, Linda Ellingson and Monica Wilton: grandchildren, Jeff Ellingson, David Ellingson, David Wilton, Stephanie Wilton and Sean Wilton. Viewing will be from 3 to 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, May 25, 2010, in Gateway Little Chapel of the Chimes, 1515 N.E. 106th Ave., followed by recitation of the rosary at 7 p.m. A funeral Mass will be celebrated at 11 a.m. Wednesday, May 26, in St. Therese Catholic Church, 1260 N.E. 132nd Ave., followed by entombment in Gethsemani Catholic Cemetery.

Thomas B. Fern |

Thomas B. Fern 1924 – 2010 AGAWAM Thomas B. Fern, 85, entered into eternal rest on Thursday, May 27, 2010 in Baystate Medical Center. Born in Adams, son of the late Henry and Mary (Frank) Fern, he was a 1943 graduate of Adams High School. He lived in Agawam since 1954. Tom was a machine repairman for Pratt & Whitney where he worked for twenty-eight years, retiring in 1986. He was a navy veteran of World War II and was active in the D Day Invasion. Tom served on the USS Laffey “The Ship That Would Not Die”. It sustained the most concentrated Kamikaze attacks of World War II being hit by seven planes and two bombs. For his heroic efforts during this attack, he was awarded the Silver Star for fighting fires, administering CPR and throwing live ammunition overboard. Tom received the American Theatre Campaign ribbon, the European Theatre ribbon with one star, the Asiatic Pacific ribbon with four stars, the World War II Victory Medal, the Purple Heart, Silver Star and the Philippines Liberations ribbon. He was a member of the USS Laffey Association DD 724, the Sons of the Union Veterans of the Civil War, and the Tin Can Sailors. He was also a communicant of St. John the Evangelist Church. He leaves his wife of sixty years, Marguerite A. (Dellert) Fern, two daughters, Cynthia M. Fern-King of Agawam, Lisa Fern-Boros of Shelton, CT, a brother, Robert Fern, and two grandchildren, Hilary King and Ashley King. The funeral will be Wednesday at 11 am from the Agawam Funeral Home, 184 Main Street with a Mass in St. John the Evangelist Church at 12noon. The burial with military honors will follow in the Massachusetts Veterans Memorial Cemetery. Calling hours are Tuesday from 4-8pm.

Burke Thayer Williams
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Burke Thayer Williams, 88, passed away at home with his wife Audrey at his side, Friday, May 13, 2010. Born in Boise, Idaho, on March 23, 1922, Burke was the second of two sons born to Alfred Lee and Mary Josephine Williams. He spent his early years in the rural area of Boise known at that time as Gary Station, which is now the site of the Plantation Golf Course. Burke attended grade and Middle school at Pierce Park and graduated from Boise High School in 1940. With the start of World War II, he decided to join the Navy and enlisted in September of 1942. He was ultimately assigned as a plane captain and gunner on PB4Y (B-24) Patrol Bomber aircraft. Burke flew 55 combat missions with the Blue Raiders squadron and saw action in the Marianas Islands, Palau, and the Philippines. He participated in bombing missions on enemy shipping near the Bonin Islands and Wake Island. During the course of his service Burke attained the rank of Aviation Machinist Mate 1st Class and was awarded the World War II Victory Medal, the Good Conduct Medal, the American Area (Asiatic-Pacific) combat ribbon with 3 stars, the Philippine Liberation Medal with 1 Star and 2 Air Medals. Burke met and married Margaret (Margie) Ball in May of 1945. He was discharged from the Navy in November of 1945 and their first daughter, Sandy, was born in San Diego, Calif. in 1946. Burke and Margie returned to Boise and their second daughter, Karen was born in 1948. A son, Burke Jr, followed in 1951. Margie passed away in 1958 and Burke spent the ensuing years working and raising his three children. Burke’s training and experience as an aircraft engine mechanic led him to a career as a diesel mechanic and for many years until his retirement he worked for local trucking companies finally retiring from Willis Shaw in 1988. Burke married Rosalie Lane in 1972 and for the next 34 years they were constant companions. Burke was always at her side until her death in 2006. Following Rose’s passing, Burke became reacquainted with an old friend whom he hadn’t seen in almost 50 years. Audrey Cutler and Burke were married in 2007. Burke always had a strong interest in all things mechanical and took a great deal of pleasure in teaching his children to ride motorcycles and appreciate the freedom that gave them. He was also a fan of Jaguar automobiles and spent many happy hours restoring an early sedan. On his 85th birthday Burke attained a lifelong dream by purchasing a Supercharged Jaguar sedan, which he and Audrey drove on many adventures. Over the years Burke enjoyed fishing and camping, especially with his children. His prowess on the baseball and kickball field was demonstrated on a regular basis while participating in games with his children in their large front yard. His son, Burke Jr., also has many fond memories of time spent on the Golf course with his dad. He was also a lifetime member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars and in his later years a member of the “Over 40” dance club. Burke is survived by his wife Audrey of Boise, two daughters, Sandy Martin and Karen Williams (Jim Ball), one son, Burke Williams (Shirley), two step-daughters; Carole Conley and Tracy Young (Buzz), three step-sons, Jim Cutler (Carol), Art Hale (Rhetha), and David Cutler, 23 grandchildren, and 21 great grandchildren. Burke Thayer Williams, a member of the “Greatest Generation@ and decorated veteran of World War II was a man of substance; honest, loyal and kind. He will be greatly missed by his wife, his family and a grateful nation. Memorial services preceding interment will be held at the Idaho State Veterans Cemetery, 10100 N Horseshoe Bend Rd, Boise ID, 10 a.m., May 21, 2010, and at the First Presbyterian Church, 950 W. State St., Boise, ID, at 1 p.m., May 21, 2010.

Published in Idaho Statesman on May 19, 2010

Allen Johnston
|

Mr. A.W. “Bill”Johnston of Pawleys Island, SC died on Sunday, May 16, 2010. He was born August 21, 1925 in Brunswick, MD. son of the late William and Hazel (Ambrose) Johnston. He is survived by his only love and wife of 64 years, Shirley Bell of Pittsburgh, PA. and four children: Sherry Mitchell (Wayne) Avon, IN, Marilyn Agnew and William Johnston of Murrells Inlet, SC and David Johnston of Hixson, TN, eight grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.
In the spring of his graduation year – Brunswick High School 1943 – he tried out for the Baltimore Orioles and was farmed out to the interstate league as catcher, but the war changed his plans.
During World War II he served in the Marine Corps 1st Division 7th Regiment fighting in the battles at Peleliu and Okinawa as a demolition specialist. At the end of the war, he participated in the repatriation of the Japanese from North China. Bill played baseball for the 7th Regiment who later went on to win what they called The Little World Series where his catcher’s mitt and big bat were standouts.
His railroad career started with the B&O and he rose through the ranks serving as General Manager-Eastern Region in Baltimore, MD; Manager of the Washington Terminal Co. at Union Station, Washington,DC; General Manager-Western Region in Cincinnati, OH and General Manager-Central Region in Pittsburgh, PA. During that period, he represented the railroad industry on the Presidential Emergency Board on the arbitration of the railroad “firemen off” issue and also on the Presidential Board on the “shop craft” issues. He was selected to lobby state legislators for the repeal of the full crew laws in the states of Ohio and Indiana and after several years, on all three counts, the railroads were successful. In January 1979, The Association of American Railroads Board of Directors elected him as Vice President of Operations and Maintenance representing the railroad industry on operating and safety issues, including the successful lobbying of congress for the elimination of cabooses on Class 1 Railroads. He retired from that position in August 1988 and relocated from Fairfax, VA to Litchfield, SC in September 1989. He has been a consultant to the Federal Railroad Administration on the Triad Missile Defense System (rail, sea, air) for the military.
An active member of St. Paul’s Waccamaw Community United Methodist Church, he has also has served in many community positions including President of the Litchfield Country Club POA, President of the Waccamaw Neck Council and Director of the Midway Fire and Rescue Board including four years as Chairman. He was also on The Board of Directors of the Washington Terminal Company, a subsidiary of Amtrak. He was awarded the honor of Distinguished Citizen for 1983 by his home town of Brunswick, MD.
He was a member of the following lodges and organizations: The Masonic Lodge (62 years), The Scottish Rite, The Syrian Shriners, The First Marine Division, The China Marine Association, Past Commandant of the Grand Strand Detachment #873, Military Order of the Marine Corps Devil Dogs, American Legion, Veterans of Foreign Wars, National Rifle Association, Association of American Railroad Superintendents, Charter Member of The World War II Memorial, Washington, DC, National Republican Party, South Carolina State and Georgetown County Republican Parties, Railway Engineering Association and the National Defense Transportation Association.
A memorial service will be held at St. Paul’s Waccamaw United Methodist Church, Pawleys Island, South Carolina 11:00 AM. Saturday, May 22, 2010.
Donations may be made to the Shriners Hospitals for Children.
Sign a guestbook at www.goldfinchfuneralhome.com
Goldfinch Funeral Home, Beach Chapel is in charge of the arrangements.

Published in The Sun News on May 19, 2010

Elvin A.D. Smith |
MISSOULA – Elvin A.D. “Smitty” Smith, 86, a World War II Coast Guard veteran and retired electrician, died of natural causes May 5 at a Missoula hospital.
Private burial will take place Saturday. A celebration of his life is 1 to 4 p.m. Sunday at the Missoula Country Club. Garden City Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
A true American hero, Smitty left this world for a better place on Wednesday, May 5, 2010, at St. Patrick Hospital, surrounded by his large, loving family, and holding the hand of his soul-mate, his wife, Mona.
How can a written obituary capsulate the greatness of this wonderful man? He was born in 1923 to Edward Lewis Smith and Hattie Markley Smith, in a ranch house outside Plentywood, Mont. The doctor arrived in horse and buggy to deliver Smitty. He was the eighth of nine children.
When he was 3, his parents divorced. His mother married Morris “Pat” Viers Utter, who was a wonderful Irish stepdad and mentor. As the American economy was beginning to spiral, they moved to the Fort Belknap Indian reservation. Smitty recalled that his great-grandmother, whose last name was “Handberry,” was a full-blooded Narragansett Indian who could not speak English. He called her “Ya-ya.”
Smitty was educated in both the public school and at the Hays Mission.
Smitty started working for hire when he was 12 years old, riding fence line. He rode wild stock and had a yearning to be a top-notch bucking bronc rider. In his early years, he always had a horse. He became an excellent farrier, keeping many Missoula horses well-shod. He was a hard worker and not afraid of anything.
In 1938, Smitty’s family relocated to Aberdeen, Wash., to work in sawmills and on the wharves. He then worked at the shipyards in Tacoma.
At the age of 18, after the Pearl Harbor attack, Smitty chose to enlist in the Coast Guard rather than be drafted. His joke was that he saw everybody else’s coast except his own. He saw live action in World War II in the North Pacific, South Pacific, North Africa and the Philippines, where he contracted malaria. He was instrumental in the liberation of POW camps on the Philippine island of Leyte.
Smitty would cry when he talked of the war, and he took to the grave with him many untold memories. But he was so proud to be an American and taught his family to value country and freedom. From the little we gleaned, we know that he was a brave hero who sometimes left the ship for hand-to-hand combat. Once, when his ship was torpedoed, he and many of his shipmates spent 36 hours in the ocean, clinging to a small raft, until rescued. He was honorably discharged in November 1945.
During the war, he was on leave for six weeks in Boston, Mass., for ship repairs, when he met June Harding at a Buddy’s Club dance. When he walked in, he announced in his booming voice, “Here I am, you lucky people.” That describes how Smitty entered every room, and we’re sure that even heaven resounded with his announcement when he arrived. After a whirlwind romance, he and June married. This marriage produced six children.
After the war, Smitty returned to the West Coast, but Montana continued to draw him. He relocated his family to Missoula in 1959. Smitty became a master electrician and worked for the mills, and for City Electric. He became a legend in 1961, when he survived an 8,500-volt electrocution. He was always unusually strong, carrying 100 pound sacks of grain in his teeth! He once lifted a piece of equipment at work that weighed 465 lbs.
Smitty was one of Missoula’s first hunter safety instructors. He was a crack shot, even with his gunpowder rifle, winning many competitions.
He crafted beautiful woodwork. Many in the family are lucky recipients of his beautiful handiwork, which we cherish. He loved playing his guitar and would sit for hours strumming out his songs. He actively took lessons right up until his hospitalization. He never quit at anything!
He knew something about everything. He loved to laugh. He loved to hunt and fish. He loved to golf and could hardly wait to get out of the hospital so that he could buy his new driver. A favorite pastime with his wife, Mona, was attending rendezvous and living the life of a buckskinner.
After he and June divorced in 1977, he met Mona Bryant Young, who was truly his soul-mate. They were married in April 1985, on the side of a mountain. This mountain man stayed bigger than life until stricken with a blood disorder four months ago. It was the only thing that could take down this giant of a man. Even though Smitty lived 86 years, it wasn’t long enough.
Smitty became a Christian in 1946, and his faith remained firm his entire life. Among his final words were, “Lord, have Your way.” He closed out his life with smiles and words of love.
He was the last surviving member of his family.
He is survived and grieved by his loving wife, Mona; daughter Carolyn (Dave) Glidewell; sons Buck (Julie) Smith, Robert Smith, Doug (Joanne) Smith, George (Mary) Smith and Russ (Traci) Smith; stepchildren Wendy (Alton) Bazinet, Craig (Denise) Young and Shawna Wootan; and an amazingly wonderful number of grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
The family suggests donations in Smitty’s name be made to the Missoula Food Bank, 219 S. 3rd St. W., Missoula.
Condolences may be posted online at www.missoulafuneralhomes.com and/or www.gftribune.com/obituaries.

Published in Great Falls Tribune on May 13, 2010

Gerard Story “Bud” Burkhart |
BOZEMAN – Gerard Story “Bud” Burkhart, 82, a longtime Bozeman-area rancher and World War II Navy veteran, died of natural causes Thursday near Bozeman.
A memorial service is 3 p.m. Tuesday at Grace Bible Church in Bozeman. Dokken-Nelson Funeral Service is handling arrangements.
Gerard “Bud” Story Burkhart passed away on May 13, 2010, at the family ranch east of Bozeman. He was the son of Harold de la Cuesta and Mayo (Story) Burkhart, born in Hollywood, Calif., on Sept. 8, 1927. He was the last great-grandson of Nelson Story, father of the Montana cattle industry.
Bud spent his childhood in Bozeman, attending school in the winter and working on the family ranch in the Gallatin Canyon in the summer. At the age of 16, during World War II, he enlisted in the Navy. Bud was in the Pacific Theater, assigned to the Marine Corps as a radio operator, taking part in the invasion of Siapain, Tinian, Guam and Iwo Jima, receiving the Purple Heart, Combat Action Ribbon and Presidential Unit Citation for the Asiatic Pacific Campaign with three battle stars, and the World War II Victory Medal.
After being honorably discharged, Bud returned to Bozeman and received his GED, then attended Montana State College. Bud worked as a government mule packer for the Geodetic Survey Crew resurveying Yellowstone National Park and the surrounding area. Bud also worked for the Elkhorn Dude Ranch in the Gallatin Canyon as a wrangler.
Bud and Mary (Biering) were married on June 22, 1951. They lived on the family ranch in the Gallatin Canyon. Bud then went to Cal Poly in San Luis Obispo, Calif., and after graduation joined his father-in-law Harold Biering ranching east of Bozeman. They raised purebred Herefords and foundation quarter-horses. Bud was especially proud of the fact that two of his four-in-hand teams were chosen by Disney to lead the Rose Bowl Parade, pulling coaches in 1980 for Disney’s 25th Anniversary. They were used for many years in the Disney park, pulling the coaches there as well. In 1989, Bud and his family were honored to be asked by the Crow Nation to commemorate Nelson Story’s cattle drive from Texas to Montana – Bud and a descendant of Chief Plenty Coup drove a symbolic herd of cattle for the ceremony.
Bud was a strong Masonic brother, receiving his 50-year pin this spring. He was grand commander of the Knights Templar for the state of Montana, grand high priest of the Royal Arch Masons, member of the Scottish Rite, member of the Algeria Shrine and member of the Wyoming Algeria Black Horse Patrol, as well as a member of several other honorary degrees.
Bud was a member of the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association and was active in rodeo as a competitor and judge. He also helped form the Montana Rodeo Association, of which he is a past president. He also was a lifetime member of the American Quarter Horse Association.
He served on the Montana Winter Fair Board as president, as well as horse director, for 25 years. He was on the Gallatin County Fair Board and LaMotte School Board for many years. He also helped form the Fort Ellis Fire Department.
Bud is survived by his wife of 58 years, Mary; his sons, Robert (Gloria) and Clint, and daughter Kathryn (Marty). He also is survived by his grandchildren, Kimberli and Juaquin; Michelle, Rachel, Drew, Elizabeth and Nate; and Matthew and Meghan; and by his sister-in-law, Debbie; a niece, Amber Ferrin; and his faithful dog, Tut.
He was preceded in death by his parents; son Richard; grandsons Dax and Josh; brothers Clint Armitage and Pete Samuelson; sister Etha Jernigan; mother-in-law Mildred Arnold; and father-in-law, Harold Biering.
Per Bud’s wishes, in lieu of flowers, memorial donations are suggested to the following organizations: The Pioneer Museum in Bozeman; 317 W. Main, Bozeman, MT 59715; The Knight Templar Eye Foundation, 1000 East State Parkway Suite I, Schaumburg, IL 60173-4592, or the Justin Cowboys Crisis Fund, 101 Pro Rodeo Drive, Colorado Springs, Co. 80919.
Condolences may be posted online at wwwdokkennelson.com and/or www.gftribune.com/obituaries.

Published in Great Falls Tribune on May 16, 2010

Quintin S. “Kin” KinCannon |
Colonel Quintin S. “Kin” KinCannon passed away Wednesday, May 12, 2010, at Solara Hospital – Brownsville.

Colonel KinCannon was born December 26, 1921, in Waco, Texas and graduated from Baylor University. In the late 1930s, he helped fortify the Panama Canal in preparation for World War II. He then enlisted in the Army Air Corp. where he became a highly decorated pilot serving in Europe. He fought in several campaigns including the Battle of Mont Cassino. His decorations included the Distinguished Flying Cross and Croix de Guerre, one of the highest awards from the French Government. Both medals may be bestowed upon individuals who distinguish themselves by acts of heroism involving combat with enemy forces. After World War II, he served in the occupation forces in Japan, and continued his career as a Pilot and Officer for over 20 years in the U.S. Air Force until he retired in 1966. He continued to be active in his World War II Air Corp Group reunions.

After his Air Force retirement, Colonel KinCannon moved to Dallas where he launched a second career at E-Systems. He relocated to the Lower Rio Grande Valley after retiring in Dallas. What we remember most about our father is that he was an honorable and loyal American who loved this country, a devoted husband and father, and a very tenacious worker who did not recognize the word “Give Up.”

He is survived by his wife, Jacklyn; his three sons, James Michael KinCannon, Charles Patrick KinCannon, and Milton Edward KinCannon; along with several grandchildren.

Visitation will be held from 12 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Sunday, May 16, 2010.

Funeral Services will be held at 1 p.m. Monday, May 17, 2010, at Garza Memorial Funeral Home Chapel. All services will conclude after the Funeral Service.

Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Joe I. Treviño, Garza Memorial Funeral Home, 1025 E. Jackson St, (956) 542-5511.
Published in Brownsville Herald on May 16, 2010

George Tatusko |

George Tatusko
of Endwell
George Tatusko, 90, of Endwell, fell asleep in the Lord on Pentecost Sunday, May 23, 2010. George was born on November 28, 1919 in Coaldale, Pennsylvania. He was predeceased by his parents, Tekla and Augustus Tatusko and his stepmother, Mary Goida Tatusko. He was also predeceased by ten sisters and brothers, six stepbrothers, one stepsister and one half sister. George is survived by his beloved wife of 67 years, Arlene. George is also survived by three sons: Bruce (and wife Sarah) of California; Wayne (and wife Cathryn) of Virginia, and Kirk (and wife Lisa) of Colorado. In addition, George is survived by five grandchildren and two great grandchildren: Matthew (and wife Marisa and their two sons, Jackson and Luke), Kiprian (and wife Abigail), Rachel, Lauren and Megan. He is also survived by one brother, Philip Tatusko, his wife Vera and their children Paula and Philip, Jr., and several nephews and nieces. George and Arlene were frequent hosts for gatherings of family and friends over the years. Many experienced and deeply appreciated their gracious and generous hospitality-a hallmark of their life together. George was a devout member of SS Peter & Paul Orthodox Church in Endicott, New York. He served on the church board for 40 years (during 35 of which he served as treasurer) and sang in the choir for 73 years until his passing. George was instrumental in the construction of the new church building in 1960 and chaired the committee to raise funds for and install the stained glass windows that still beautify the SS Peter & Paul sanctuary. George enlisted in the Air Force during World War II and was a charter member of the World War II Memorial. The following is a posting available at the World War II Memorial kiosk in Washington, D.C.: “A B-24 pilot, flew 42 combat missions, based in Italy with the 376th Bomb Group, 515th Squadron, 15th Air Force, 210 combat hours. Received purple heart, air medals with five Oak Leaf clusters, and European Theater ribbon with six Battle stars.” George began his career at IBM as an apprentice toolmaker at age 17. Except for his service in the Air Force, he worked at IBM for 42 years, rising through the ranks to become a project manager in charge of numerous departments. He retired from IBM in 1981. George was a member of the American Legion in Endicott, New York and of the Air Force Association.
Friends may call at the SS Peter & Paul Orthodox Church from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. on Friday, May 28. A Parastas will be sung at 8:00 p.m. with Very Reverend Alexey Karlgut officiating. The funeral will be held on Saturday, May 29 at 11:00 a.m. Burial will be at the SS Peter & Paul Cemetery off Newell Road in Endicott. In lieu of flowers, those wishing may make donations to the Elevator Fund, SS Peter & Paul Orthodox Church, 210 Hill Avenue, Endicott. The family would also like to express its deep appreciation to the caring people at Lourdes Hospice.

Published in Binghamton Press & Sun-Bulletin from May 26 to May 28, 2010

Richard F. WILKINSON |
WILLIAMSBURG – Col. Richard Franklin Wilkinson, U.S. Army (Retired), 89, died on May 14, 2010.
Born on Feb. 4, 1921, in Toano, Va., he lived the last 42 years of his life in Williamsburg, Va. He was the oldest son of Roscoe Franklin Wilkinson and Jesse Bell Wilkinson.
He grew up in Toano and graduated from Toano High School. Upon graduation from VPI (Virginia Tech) in 1942, he was commissioned as an officer in the U.S. Army and assigned to the 133rd Regiment, 34th Division. Known as the ‘Red Bull’ Division, the 34th Infantry had more combat days than any other U.S. Army Division in World War II. As a company commander, he and his company were in combat during most of the North African and Italian military campaigns. He was awarded a Silver Star, a Bronze Star and a Purple Heart Medal. Later in retirement, he wrote about his wartime experiences in an autobiographical narrative, “Battles of Company C of the133rd Infantry Regiment.”
After World War II, he married his childhood sweetheart Margaret Jane Walton from Martinsville, Va. He briefly did graduate work at VPI until 1946, when he rejoined the U.S. Army. For the next 26 years, he served the U.S. Army in a variety of assignments around the world. Among his career highlights, he was an advisor to the National Chinese Army in Taiwan during the Korean War, a military instructor at the U.S. Army Command and General Staff College at Fort Leavenworth, Kan., the Executive Officer for the 6th Infantry (battle group) in Berlin 1959-1960, and had three different liaison assignments, including the U.S. Navy during the Vietnam Conflict and joint Army-Navy-Air Force Unified Commands.
After he retired, he served as the chairman of the York County Industrial Development Authority from 1981-1990. For more than 40 years, he was a member of Hickory Neck Episcopal Church and served as a vestry member and as a Trustee. He and his brother, ‘Press’ Wilkinson, successfully developed several tracts of commercial land in the greater Williamsburg area. A generous man throughout his life, he supported many worthy causes such as the YMCA, the Virginia Tech Corps of Cadets, and the Thomas P. Wilkinson Home in Blue Ridge, Va., a residence for adults with intellectual disabilities. His son, Tommy, was the joy of his life and his ‘buddy.’ He was also a member of Crown Colony Club, the Virginia Tech Alumni Association, and The Arc of Greater Williamsburg.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife of 64 years, Margaret Walton Wilkinson; and his brother, Howard Preston Wilkinson.
He is survived by his children, Richard Franklin Wilkinson Jr. and wife, Kate, of Longview, Texas, Jane Rice Wilkinson Raish and husband, Steve, of Allen, Texas, Thomas Preston Wilkinson, of Blue Ridge, Va., and Nancy Bell Wilkinson Shafer, of Toano, Va.; five grandchildren, Ellen Bellamy Wilkinson Maxwell and husband, John, of Culpeper, Va., Richard Taliaferro Wilkinson and wife, Jessica, of Fort Worth, Texas, John Franklin Raish and wife, Adrienne, of Frisco, Texas, Sarah Jane Raish Kates and husband, Scott, of Jacksonville, N.C., and Ashby Walton Shafer of Toano, Va.; and seven great-grandchildren, Catherine deRosset Maxwell, Elizabeth Waite Maxwell, Margaret Anne Wilkinson, John Franklin Raish II, Richard Austin Raish, Meghan Christine Raish, and Samuel Robert Kates. He is also survived by two sisters-in-law and numerous nephews, nieces, great-nephews and great-nieces.
The family wants to give special thanks to the selfless caregivers that helped their father during the past several years: Kathy Palmer, Brian Gregory, and Sharon Cole, and to recognize the assistance of Sarah Darling and the services provided by Sentara Hospice.
The family will receive friends on Wednesday, May 19 from 4 to 6 p.m. at Nelsen Funeral Home, 3785 Strawberry Plains Rd., Williamsburg, Va. A funeral service and burial will be held on Thursday, May 20, at 11 a.m. at Hickory Neck Episcopal Church, 8300 Richmond Road, Toano, Va.
Memorial donations may be made to Hickory Neck Episcopal Church, the Virginia Tech Corps of Cadets Alumni Scholarship Fund, 143 Brodie Hall, Blacksburg, VA 24061 and the R.F. Wilkinson Family YMCA, 301 Sentara Circle, Williamsburg, VA 23188.
Online condolences may be offered at www.nelsencares.com. View and post condolences on our online guestbook at dailypress.com/guestbooks.

Published in Daily Press from May 17 to May 18, 2010

Donald Francis MOSS |
MOSS, Donald Francis Donald Francis Moss, husband of Virginia (“Sally”) Hardesty Moss, of Farmington, Connecticut, died peacefully Tuesday (May 18) at the University of Connecticut Health Center. He was 90. Born January 20, 1920 in Somerville, Massachusetts, he had a rare and wonderful life. In addition to his wife of more than 60 years, Moss is survived by his son, Donald Hardesty Moss and his wife, Susan Reeder Moss, of West Hartford, CT; his daughter, Elisabeth Prescott Moss, and her partner, Kathleen Zecchin, of Farmington; and his daughter, Margaret Moss Painter, and her husband, Robert W. Painter Jr., of Avon, CT. He is also survived by five grandchildren, William and Samuel Moss, Kathryn, Alexander, and James DeGraaf. He also leaves his son-in-law, Christian DeGraaf of New Hartford, CT; brother-in-law, Kurt Tauber of Williamstown, Massachusetts; brother-in-law Clifton Hardesty of Venice, Florida; as well as several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his three sisters. Moss was a noted and celebrated illustrator, as well as a fine artist, and one of the last surviving veterans of the First Marine Division’s Guadalcanal Campaign of World War II. In 1940, he was attending Vesper George Art School on scholarship in Massachusetts, but joined the U.S. Marine Corps when World War II broke out. Moss joined the First Marine Division, landed at Guadalcanal in August 1942, fighting through that campaign and eventually serving four years, attaining the rank of Corporal, and using his artistic talent to document and map the campaign in the South Pacific. After the War, he attended Pratt Institute in New York, where he met his wife, Sally Hardesty. He began painting for various ad agencies, along with Good Housekeeping, Colliers, and Esquire magazines. He got his first assignment with Sports Illustrated in 1954, and over 30 years, painted more covers and editorial illustrations for SI than any American artist. Moss had a prolific career as a freelance illustrator, focusing his commercial work mainly on sports-related subjects. For his accomplishments in sports art, the United States Sports Academy named Moss Sport Artist of the Year in 1985. Among his clients were Time, World Book Encyclopedia, the NFL, the US Tennis Association, the PGA, the US Air Force, Head, Olin, Stratton Mountain, ABC-TV, Mercedes-Benz, among others. Although Donald Moss is not a household name, his work is everywhere: from the Best 18 Golf Holes in America, Super Bowl posters, numerous aerial ski maps and ski runs, and ubiquitous logos, to the art for the 1980 Lake Placid Olympic raccoon mascot. He designed a dozen postage stamps and 48 First Day Covers for the US Postal Service. He painted the signature illustrations for many sports events such as the New York City Marathon and the US Tennis Open at Forest Hills. Moss’s fine art prints have been commissioned by Sports Illustrated, Arnold Palmer Enterprises, and Golf Digest, among others. His paintings are included in 200 Years of Sport in America, and The Best of Sports Illustrated. His paintings of Ted Williams and Jack Nicklaus are included in Champions of America Sport, published by the Smithsonian Institution. His paintings hang in the collections of museums and many of the American Sports Halls of Fame. Moss was a Life Member of the Society of Illustrators and served as its senior vice president. He was Chairman of the US Air Force Art Program and flew around the world to paint Air Force activities, many of which grace the USAF art collection. Moss was a member of the First Marine Division Association, a board member of the National Art Museum of Sport, and a member of the Low Illustration Committee at the New Britain Museum of American Art. Moss was an avid sportsman himself, a hockey player as a boy, a lifelong skier and tennis player, and an avid golf, football, hockey, and baseball fan. Although he created an enormous body of commercial work, he will be best remembered by his family and friends as a fine artist of watercolors and landscapes. He was the author of “How to Paint Watercolor,” published by Grumbacher in 1968. He painted hundreds of watercolors at the family’s summer home on Fire Island in the ’60s and ’70s, which he would string up along the Kismet dock on a clothesline and sell for a trifle; the point was not to sell so much as to share his love for stormy skies or the sun setting into the ocean. His enthusiasm for his art was matched by his generosity, he sketched and painted countless churches, schools, historic buildings, and people, often as a gift to or for the benefit of associated organizations, including the University of Connecticut, the UConn Health Center, and the American Farmland Trust. He delighted close friends with paintings of their favorite places or a beloved dog. In addition to art and sports, he had many passions — he had an infectious love of music and dancing; an uptempo jazz or blues tune was cause to drum along with a fork and spoon or the wrong end of a paintbrush. He had a ready smile, innate charisma, and a gift for connecting with anyone, human or canine. He loved his sportscar, outdoor concerts with champagne and fireworks, dogs, his backyard garden, and a crisply-pressed shirt. He loved a good joke and had a twinkle in his eye until the day he died. He believed fiercely in hard work, The Golden Rule, and the power of positive thinking. Of all his loves, nothing matched his love and devotion for his Sally. They celebrated their 60th anniversary in June 2009. There was never a more loving husband, father, or grandfather. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, May 29 at 11 a.m., at St. James Episcopal Church in Farmington, followed by a reception. Burial will be private. In lieu of flowers, contributions in his memory can be made to the New Britain Museum of American Art 56 Lexington St, New Britain, CT 06052 or The Barney Library Renovation Fund, 6 Monteith Drive, Farmington, CT 06032. Friends are encouraged to sign the guestbook at legacy.com and visit www.donaldfmoss.blogspot.com.

Published in The Hartford Courant on May 22, 2010

Earl Leon Mercer |
Ret. Colonel Earl Leon Mercer
Clyde

Ret. Colonel Earl Leon Mercer, 88, of Clyde, died Friday at an Abilene hospital. Memorial services will be at 11:00 a.m. Tuesday at the First United Methodist Church in Clyde with Rev. Lou Ellerbrook officiating, under the direction of Bailey-Howard Funeral Home of Clyde. Interment will be at a later date in Augusta, Kansas.
Mr. Mercer was born March 7, 1922, in Augusta, Kansas, to Roy Earl and Mary Fern (Sells) Mercer. He attended schools through high school in Augusta. He married Louise Clemons on November 4, 1946, in El Paso at the Ft. Bliss Army Chapel. They moved to Abilene from Salina, Kansas, in 1965, and to Clyde from Abilene in 1972.
Mr. Mercer was a Colonel in the U.S. Air Force serving as an Intelligence Officer, Navigator, Bombardier and Pilot. He served during World War II, Korea, Vietman and the cold war.
During World War II, he entered the Army Air Corp Basic Training at Sheppard AFB, Texas, in 1942. After graduation, he was assigned to Ft. Logan, Colorado, where he was training aircraft engineers until he was called to Cadet Flight Training in San Antonio in December, 1942. After flight training, he was assigned and flew B-17’s and B-24’s in the South Pacific where he was shot down. Upon his return, he was stationed at Dysersburg, Tennessee, as instructor for B-17 Combat Crew Training for European Missions. After completion, he trained for B-29’s at Kirtland AFB, New Mexico. He then went to Ft. Bliss, Texas, for Guided Missiles and Flack Analysis Project. He flew tow targets and tracked guided missiles in White Sands and anti-aircraft firing ranges. He was discharged from the service in 1946 and returned to Augusta, Kansas.
Mr. Mercer attended the University of Texas at El Paso and after completion returned to Augusta and was employed as a design engineer at Boeing Aircraft Company. In 1951, he was recalled to the U.S. Air Force for the Korean War in the B-29 aircraft and transition to the B-47 bombers. He spent numerous missions on alert in England, Africa, Spain and Iran during the cold war. In 1957, he was assigned for duty in Evereux, France, flying C-119’s and C130’s on special air missions in Germany, France, Italy, Iran, Turkey, Norway, Denmark, Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, Lebanon, Belgian and Russia. At completion in 1960, he returned to the B-47 aircraft and Atlas Missiles at Shilling AFB, Kansas, until 1965 when he went to Dyess AFB, Texas. He served in Vietnam in C-130 Gun Ships.
After retiring from the Air Force, Mr. Mercer attended McMurry University School of Business. He was employed as the head cashier with People’s State Bank in Clyde for ten years until he retired in 1986 when Earl and Louise began traveling in their motor home spending summers in Colorado, winters in Arizona and South Texas, and Septembers in Kansas for school reunions. He built an Avid Airplane in his RV garage that he flew and later donated to the Augusta Flying Museum.
Earl was a 50 year member of the Masonic Lodge, a member of the Suez Shriners of North America, a charter member of the Clyde AARP where he served two years as president, a charter member of the Greater Clyde Kiwanis Club where he served ten years as treasurer, and was a member of the First United Methodist Church of Clyde serving on the administration board as treasurer.
Mr. Mercer is survived by his wife Louise of Clyde; three daughters, Pam Willson and husband Phil of Clyde, Deby Kyle and husband Wayne of Hamilton, and Ann Mercer of Abilene; three grandchildren, Chris Kyle and wife Taya, Andy Orrell and wife Penny, and Jeff Kyle and wife Amy; and four great-grandchildren, Colton Kyle, McKenna Kyle, Morgan Orrell and Tyson Orrell. He was preceded in death by his parents, one grandson Danny Orrell, one brother John F. Mercer, and one sister Wanda Fern Power.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the First United Methodist Church of Clyde, PO Box 465, Clyde, Texas, 79510.
Online condolences may be made at www.baileyhowardfuneralhome.com

Published in Abilene Reporter-News on May 23, 2010

William John Oliver M.D. |
Oliver, William John MD
A resident of Ann Arbor for over 60 years, passed away peacefully, after a brief illness, on May 11th, 2010 in Ft. Lauderdale, his winter home. Born in 1925, he spent his childhood in Plains, Georgia, where he was a classmate of Jimmy Carter. He helped run the family country store during his youth that extended through the Depression. He graduated from Plains High School and started his college education in Georgia. During World War II, through the Navy, Bill participated in the “V12” program, which was designed to accelerate the graduation of physicians for the war effort. At 23, he earned his medical degree from the University of Michigan Medical School and was inducted into the honor society, Alpha Omega Alpha. Dr. Oliver met his wife, Marguerite Bertoni, while working at St Joseph’s Hospital, and they married in 1949. The Korean War ensued soon after and, during that time, Bill served on bases in North Carolina and California. The family returned to Michigan in 1953 where he finished his Pediatric Residency at the University of Michigan and thereafter joined the faculty of the Pediatric Department. He proceeded with a meteoric rise through Academics, becoming a full Professor at the young age of forty. In 1967, he was appointed Chairman of the Pediatric Department at the University of Michigan. As Chairman, he continued to promote Mott’s Children Hospital, devoting his energies to the academic growth of the Department, adding new sub-specialties of Pediatric Surgery and Neonatology. He wrote books, chapters of books and many academic journal articles. He was one of the nation’s first pediatric nephrologists and was responsible for developing the first Pediatric Nephrology Board tests. He was the nephrologist involved with the first kidney transplant in Michigan. He was a member of numerous pediatric and kidney societies and past President of the Scientific Advisory Board of the Michigan Kidney Disease Foundation and the Midwest Society for Pediatric Research. He served as Chairman of the Council on Pediatric Education of the American Academy of Pediatrics. Bill’s adventurous side brought him to some of the most remote corners of the Earth to pursue his research. He was invited to the Amazon by Dr. Jim Neel, a world renowned geneticist at U of M, to study the Yanomano Indians, one of the world’s few remaining primitive tribes. This led to further research with Napoleon Chagnon, one of the world’s foremost anthropologists, who lived with the Yanomano for years. The team completed a total of six trips to the Amazon, resulting in research that remains pertinent and useful today. While in the jungle, Bill and his associates lived with the Indians, consumed traditional foods, including monkey and Boa constrictor, and traversed the region in dugout canoes. As recently as January of this year, young researchers sought out Dr. Oliver to review his findings. When asked why he enjoyed the jungle, he would say that it reminded him of South Georgia, “where there were swamps, snakes, insects and critters of all kinds.” He taught as a visiting professor around the globe, travelling frequently with his wife, Marguerite. He was invited to teach by the rulers of Saudi Arabia. He assisted in the birth of the royal family of Morocco. He did research in the Central African Republic and Guatemala. He was a visiting Professor in Canada, Jamaica, Chile, Australia, Venezuela, and Austria, and countless universities and hospitals across the United States. His sabbatical in Switzerland provided a great experience that the family still enjoys talking about. Starting in the 1980’s, he assisted his wife in her great venture: “Pastabilities”, a renowned pasta store and restaurant located by the Farmers’ Market in Ann Arbor. This time he had a supporting role in the development and growth of the business, proudly watching his wife glow all the way to national television, when she was voted: best pasta in America by CNN. He served his community by working as Trustee to the Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum and Trustee to the Perry Nursery School of Ann Arbor, and was past of President of the Perry Nursery School. He is remembered across Ann Arbor and Michigan as a world class Pediatrician with a kind heart. In his later years, he continued to produce journal articles even recently. He enjoyed his family, visiting the grandkids, always there for his grandchildren: Hunter and Morgan of Alamo CA; Ryan, Rob, Will, James and Lauren of Duxbury MA. He is survived by his wife, Marguerite, of over 60 years, and his sister Joyce Bergman of Glenview, Illinois; three children: Cathy and her husband, Scott Allen, of Alamo California; Susan Oliver, of Ft. Pierce, Florida; and Dr. Scott Oliver and his wife, Ann Marie, of Duxbury, Massachusetts; seven grandchildren, noted above; and numerous nieces and nephews. Visiting Hours: Muehlig Funeral Chapel, 403 South Fourth Ave, Ann Arbor MI: Thursday, May 20th, 6-8pm www.muehligannarbor.com. Funeral Mass: St Thomas Church, 530 Elizabeth Street, Ann Arbor, MI: Friday, May 21st, 10am. Burial will follow the ceremony at Forest Hill Cemetery, 415 Observatory, Ann Arbor, MI 48104. Donations may be made to The William J. Oliver MD Fund, C. S. Mott Children’s Hospital, Office of Medical Development,301 East Liberty Suite 400, Ann Arbor, MI 48104

Published in AnnArbor.com on May 14, 2010

Lt. Col. Thomas William Lattanzi |
Lattanzi, Ret. Lt. Col. Thomas William 90 03/17/1920 05/10/2010 Thomas William Lattanzi was born March 17, 1920, in Manila, The Philippines. His Italian immigrant father, Giambatista Lattanzi and Russian mother, Maria Gilenok, met in Siberia, during World War I. Tom was born in an army hospital on the way back to the United States. He grew up in and attended schools in Milwaukie, where he was a track and field athlete. He played the trombone in high school and in the service. Tom joined the U.S. Army 186th Infantry Regiment, 41st Infantry Division in 1937 while a junior at Milwaukie High School and started his training at just 17 years old at Vancouver barracks with the Civilian Military Training Corps. Tom was inducted into federal duty with the 41st Infantry Division in 1940 and was deployed to Australia in 1942 (he attended Oregon State University during this time). He participated in the Division’s Thousand Mile Campaign in the jungles of New Guinea. He was wounded twice. Eventually Tom commanded an Infantry company at Camp Walters, Texas, and held several positions within the 104th Infantry Division Regiment. In the U.S. Army Reserve, Tom was the commander of the First Battalion, 136th Regiment in Tigard. Tom received a Bronze Star and two Purple Hearts. He was awarded the Patrick Henry Award in 1990 for his work in building a stone podium memorial located in Nehalem Cemetery in Manzanita. Tom was invited to the Hawaii Punchbowl memorial service for the 50th anniversary of the launch of World War II and had the opportunity to meet President Clinton. In 2003 he was awarded an ANZAC (Australian and New Zealand Army Corps) medallion in recognition of the efforts of the 41st Infantry Brigade in Australia and New Zealand during World War II. Tom was inducted into the 41st Division’s Hall of Fame after 27 years in the service of his country and proudly retired as a lieutenant colonel. Tom married Betty Lou Richardson in 1948 and they raised five children in Milwaukie. He ran Tom’s Grocery, a mom and pop grocery store for many years and retired from Farmers Insurance in 1983. He took his family somewhere different every year on wonderful camping trips all throughout the Pacific Northwest. The Oregon coast was always his favorite spot. In 1983, he built a second home in Manzanita where he and Betty have lived for over 30 years. The family gathers every July at the beach and in 2009 entered the annual Fourth of July parade in Manzanita as the “Italian Battalion” with Tom and Betty riding in an Army Humvee. He will be remembered for his famous one-liners and had a joke for every occasion. Tom is survived by his wife, Betty; children; Karen Hanson (husband, Rick); Jeanetta Barger (partner, Chet Woodworth); Becky Cereghino (husband, Larry); Christi Leitz; and Tom Lattanzi (wife, Linda); grandchildren, Tony, Jenna, Scott, Andy, Mackenzie, Cory, Nathan, Haley and Michael; sister, Rose Howe; and five great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents; grandson, Trask; and many fallen comrades and dear friends. A military service will take place at 1 p.m. Wednesday, June 2, 2010, in Willamette National Cemetery. A celebration of life and memories may be shared at grandson Mackenzie Barger’s home, 11601 S.E. Flavel St., Portland OR 97266, following the ceremony.

James Howell |

James Emerson Howell A World War II Navy veteran of Iwo Jima and retired business executive, died April 28 at his home in San Mateo, California. He was 86 and the cause of death was cancer. Mr. Howell was born June 18, 1923 in Needles, California, and graduated from the University of Redlands. During World War II, he enlisted in the Navy through the V-12 program on July 1, 1943, and was later commissioned as an officer in the Naval Reserve. As the war in the Pacific escalated, Mr. Howell’s first assignment was to the LSM-128, a medium landing ship. Shortly thereafter, he was part of the first crew, commonly known in the Navy as a “plank owner,” assigned to the USS Highlands, APA-119, an attack transport ship. As a young ensign, Mr. Howell served as the assistant communications officer on the new ship. During the battle for Iwo Jima, one of the war’s fiercest engagements, the Highlands landed the Marine assault force on the Japanese island. For the first six days of the battle, Mr. Howell was on the beach coordinating scores of landing craft bringing Marines ashore. After the battle, the Highlands carried American casualties to Saipan and was at Leyte, Guam and the Southern Philippine Islands preparing for the planned invasion of Japan. On September 2, 1945, the day Japan formally surrendered, the Highlands sailed into Tokyo Bay carrying U.S. troops for the occupation. She brought more forces to Japan in October and later carried veterans home to the United States. After service to his nation Mr. Howell was discharged on July 13, 1946. He returned to the University of Redlands, graduating with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Economics in June 1947. His first job was as a probation officer in San Bernardino, California. He also worked in San Mateo County as a probation officer. Then in 1959, Mr. Howell was offered a position in the personnel department of the nationally known food company, Granny Goose Foods. Ten years later, he joined Granny Goose’s parent company, Del Monte Foods and retired in August 1988 as Director of Benefit Planning. An avid follower of the arts and the San Francisco Ballet and theater, Mr. Howell was co-president with his wife Lorraine Howell of the Midshipman’s Parents Club for the United States Naval Academy from 1974 to 1978. He is survived by one son, Stephen Howell of Atlanta, Georgia, eight nieces and nephews, and 16 great nieces and nephews. Mr. Howell will be remembered as one of the Greatest Generation, distinguished American heroes who sacrificed so much to help save and preserve this great nation. Published in San Francisco Chronicle on May 13, 2010

DONALD L. RUST

Einan’s Funeral Home

Donald L. Rust, 86, of Richland, Washington, went home to our Lord on May 19, 2010. Born on March 13, 1924, Don was the 7th of 11 children born to Henry and Lottie Rust.

Don lived his early life on a family farm in Herrick, South Dakota. The 1930’s Dust Bowl and Great Depression made life difficult for the family and they moved to Selah, Washington, to find work.

At 18, Don enlisted in the Navy and trained as a Medic during World War II where he served as a Corpsman and supported the 3rd Marine Battalion, 9th Marine Infantry, 3rd Marine Division throughout the Pacific, most notably during the Battles of Guam and Iwo Jima.

After the war, he returned to Selah and found his soul mate Rosella Scott. After their marriage in April 1947, they moved to Richland, where Don worked as an ambulance driver for Kadlec Hospital, as a water treatment specialist and a power operator for the Hanford site. He retired 40 years later in 1987 from Westinghouse.

Don was a member of the Leisure Club, HAMTC Operating Engineers Local No. 280 and a life member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars.

Don and Rose lovingly raised five children, were adoptive and foster parents and shared their home with countless family members and others throughout their lives. No one ever entered the warmth of their home without being touched by their generosity or being offered food, a place to rest and stories to entertain them.

Don always held God in his heart and was a lifelong member of Christ the King Catholic Church. He was a strong, good and humble man who always provided for his family as he guided them with love.

Don’s memory of people and events stayed with him throughout his life as he shared stories of his childhood, youth and service as a Corpsman with family and friends. His stories were always entertaining. During the last months of Don’s life, as family and friends came to visit, he shared special memories with them about their parents or about them when they were children as his parting gift to them. He never lost his wonderful sense of humor and love of people.

Don and his memories are forever in the hearts of his family, which includes his daughters, Pam (spouse Bill) Hames, Renae Rust; sons, Rod (spouse Lilia) Rust, Ted Rust (partner Mark), and Bill (spouse Tanya) Rust; sisters, Lenora Thomas, Alice (spouse Bob) Frister, and Mary St George; 13 grandchildren and 7 great-grandchildren; his large extended family, friends and those he shared and played Bingo with at Knights of Columbus and West Richland Senior Center. He will be dearly missed by all.

Don was welcomed to Heaven by his lovely wife of 56 years, Rose; parents, Henry and Lottie Rust; brothers, Bill, Charlie, Vic, Hank and Joe Rust; sisters, Lauren Colgan and Laura Roy; and many family members and friends.

Don’s family wishes to thank the Tri-Cities Chaplaincy Hospice for the loving care they provided to our father, and all others who provided the support we have cherished in our time of need.

Donations in memory of Don can be sent to the Catholic Family and Child Service of the Diocese of Yakima www.ccyakima.org/family/yakima/donate.html.

The celebration of Don’s life will include a viewing Thursday, May 27th, from 12-6 p.m. and Rosary at 7 p.m. at Einan’s Funeral Home (915 Bypass Highway, Richland).

The funeral will be at 1 p.m. on Friday, May 28th, at Christ the King Church (1111 Stevens Drive, Richland), followed by graveside services at Sunset Memorial Gardens. Following the services, the family invites all guests to join them at Memories at Sunset Event Center for a celebration of Don’s life.

John T. “Jack” Shea |

John T. “Jack” Shea, 84, of Worcester, passed away with his devoted family at his side, Sunday, May 30, 2010 in the Rose Monahan Hospice Residence.

John’s wife of 44 years, Jean T. (Halpin) Shea passed away in 1998. Jack is survived by his seven children: Barbara A. Darcy and her husband, Paul, of Shrewsbury; Maureen A. Robinson and her husband, Jeffery; John W. Shea; Michael P. Shea; Nancy E. Belinskas and her husband, Daniel, all of Worcester; William P. Shea and his wife, Cindy, of Paxton; Mark T. Shea and his wife, Erin, of Woodstock, CT; nine cherished grandchildren: Brian, Matthew and Daniel Darcy, Mia Robinson, Michael P. Shea Jr., Jay and Ryan Belinskas, Katie and Sara Shea; a sister, Roberta Foley of Worcester; a niece, nephews and friends.

Jack was born in Worcester, the son of the late John J. and Grace (Fitzpatrick) Shea. He attended St. Stephen’s High School, joined the U.S. Marines to serve his country during two wars, World War II and Korea, later joining the U.S. Air Force reserve serving until 1963. During World War II, Jack took part in the battle for Okinawa and as a member of the first units of U.S. Marines to occupy Nagasaki after the end of the War.

He lived in Worcester. Wells, Maine in the summers and Naples, Florida in the winters.

Jack worked for the City of Worcester as a firefighter for more than 40 years from 1949 to 1989, serving on Engine 12 and Ladder 5 at “The Rock” Providence St. and then Aerial Scope 2 on Southbridge Street before retiring.

He was a member of Our Lady of Lourdes church, The 2nd Marine Division Association, the Grafton Hill Post 323 American Legion, The International Association of Firefighters Local 1009 and the Worcester Fireman’s Relief Association.

Jack enjoyed fishing, especially surf casting, and the Boston Red Sox, but his family was the most important part of his life. His wife, children and grandchildren provided him great joy. His children will be forever grateful for his guidance, support, wisdom and sense of humor.

The funeral will be held Thursday, June 3rd from the MERCADANTE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL, 370 Plantation St. with a Mass at 10:00 a.m. in Our Lady of Lourdes Church, 1290 Grafton St. Burial with military honors will be in St. John Cemetery. Friends and relatives are invited to visit with the family, Wednesday, June 2nd from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. in the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the friends of Delnor-Wiggins State Park, 11135 Gulf shore Drive, Naples, Fl. 34108.

Published in Worcester Telegram & Gazette from May 31 to June 1, 2010

Thomas Raymond Winter |

Thomas Raymond Winter, 85, of Yarmouth Port died on Monday, May 10, 2010, with his family by his side. He was the son of the late William J. and Elizabeth C. Winter. Born in East Orange, N.J. He Attended East Orange, N.J. public School System through grade eight and High School at Seton Hall Academy Prep School. He graduated from there in spring of 1942. He then entered the armed service. A World War II Veteran, he served in the U.S. Army while stationed in Europe as an Infantryman which included his participation in the D-Day Allied Invasion, and later he was attached to a Tank Destroyer Battalion which saw fighting at The Battle of the Bulge, among other conflicts. After the War he enrolled at Seton Hall University in South Orange, N.J., in February 1946. He graduated with a Bachelor of Arts Degree with a Major in Personnel Administration in April of 1949. While in college after the war he married Alice Ruth Sheehan of Bloomfield, New Jersey on March 24, 1948, at St. Paul’s Church in Clifton, N.J. He resided with family during the 1950 to 1985 time period in Livingston, N.J. and he was employed as a cost estimator in the construction industry. His longest employment was with the Frank Briscoe Company Inc. He purchased a summer cottage at 36 Paul St., in Dennis, Sept. 14, 1959. Expanded the summer cottage in 1984 and converted it to a year-round home. At this time he traveled to Dennis every Friday afternoon, and then returned to N.J. late Sunday night to work during the week in New Jersey. Upon retirement he then resided in Dennis full time and later in Yarmouth Port. He was previously married for 47 years to Alice Ruth Sheehan, who died in 1995. He enjoyed following professional sports, particularly Football and Baseball, and he was a fan of both the Yankees and the Red Sox. He enjoyed books and films pertaining to World War II. He enjoyed spending time at Dr. Lord’s Beach in Dennis during his summers on Cape Cod. He is survived by his wife, Jean Jacques of Yarmouth Port; four children Ms. Megan Winter, South Dennis, Mrs. Sally Winter and husband Steve Wood, of East Harwich, Mrs. Laurie Jonas and husband Charles, of East Dennis, Mrs. Robin Walker and husband Scott, of East Dennis; three stepchildren Mrs. Alison Luscher and husband Brian, of Park Ridge, N.Y., Mr. Philip Meisner and Kim of Congers, N. Y., Mrs. Julie Lloyd and Ross of So. Dennis; six grandchildren, Biranna Potter, Christian Schilling, Elizabeth Walker, Taylor Hughes, Bronwyn Jonas and Charles Jonas, Jr.; three step-grandchildren, Erik, Laurana and Erin, three great-grandchildren, Sydney Potter, Hannah Potter and Arlo Schilling; also survived by three cousins, two nieces, two nephews; and brother of the late Elizabeth (Winter) Myland, and William Winter. A graveside service with Military Honors was held Friday, May 14, at 1:30 p.m., in the Massachusetts National Cemetery, Bourne.

Published in The Barnstable Register from May 13 to May 20, 2010

Norman Hoffman |

Norman P. Hoffman, 92 PALOS HILLS – Norman P. Hoffman, 92, a retired chief master sergeant of the Air Force who was a veteran of World War II, Korea, Vietnam, U.S. Army and Illinois Air National Guard after 33 years, of Tequesta, Fla., and formerly of Chicago, Markham and Lake Carroll, passed away Wednesday, May 12, 2010. Beloved husband of 56 years to the late Dorothy (Newhall); proud father of Norman (Reba) Hoffman and Wilson (Roseann) Hoffman; loving grandfather of Kurt, Jeffrey, Dustin, Carol (Gayland) Smallwood, Michael and Dawn; dear great-grandfather of Taelor, Savannah, Rachel, Cody, Gregory, Parker, Sage, Cameron, Amy and Harmony; and loving brother of Carol (Jim) Albrecht. Norman graduated from Hyde Park High School. He was a proud, decorated hero in World War II and was proud to have been in Gen. Patton’s Third Army. He claimed to have walked across Europe, and at war’s end, his 71st Division was the farthest east division of the war. The 71st Division had thrust deeply into enemy territory at Waidhofen and Amstetten, the eastern most point reached by American ground forces of any U.S. Army in the European Theater. He was a member of the VFW Oak Lawn Post 5220. His loyalty and devotion to his wife, family and friends was his life. Service at 11 a.m. Thursday, May 20, in Palos-Gaidas Funeral Home, 11028 Southwest Highway, by Edgar Funeral Directors; the Rev. Donald G. Borling, pastor, will officiate. Interment in Mount Vernon Memorial Estates. Visitation from 3 to 9 p.m. Wednesday in the funeral home. The family asks that to honor his generous feelings for others you consider a donation to the charity of your choice and honor his memory by sharing a story with the family in lieu of flowers.>

Published in Rockford Register Star from May 17 to May 18, 2010

Jack Harvey Williams (1925-2010) |
On April 28, Jack Harvey Williams died after complications due to a fall in his home. He was 85 at the time of his death.
A memorial service for Jack will be held at 1 p.m. Thursday, May 20, 2010 at Waples Memorial United Methodist Church, with Rev. Mike Nichols and Dr. Jim Bowden officiating. Jack will be buried on May 21 at Ft. Gibson National Military Cemetery near Muskogee, Okla.
Jack was born on Jan. 22, 1925 in Van Alstyne to Clarence Harvey Williams and Sarah Lois Spradley Williams. His only sibling was his older sister Rebecca Darling Williams Lain. After living in Van Alstyne for a short time, he and his family moved to Muskogee, Okla. in 1926. He considered Muskogee to be his real “home.”
In his senior year of high school, at the age of 17, Williams joined the Navy. His mother helped manipulate his age and he left to do his duty in World War II. He was assigned to the USS McCracken, an attack transport used to insert Marines into battle. The McCracken was involved in combat operations in the Philippines, Okinawa and Saipan. It was among the first attack transports to disembark occupation troops in Japan at Nagoya, on Oct. 28, 1945. The McCracken earned one battle star during World War II.
After the war, Williams briefly attended the University of Oklahoma in Norman, Okla. and Northeastern State University in Tallequah, Okla. He then joined the U.S. Air Force where he flew seven different aircraft in roles from instructor pilot to combat in the B-26 during the Korean War. He was also a missile launch officer for a time on Titan missile systems while stationed at RAF Lakenheath, England and as a safety officer on Atlas missiles at Vandenberg AFB in California. The B-26 was his favorite aircraft, he told Susan. “I think it is the one plane I enjoyed the most. It had two P-47 engines that were some kind of power. If the plane was light we could feather one engine and pass a P -51 out of a dive . . .”
While stationed at Perrin AFB, Jack met Kathleen Francis Gary. The story he told his children is that they met on a cloud when he was flying. They were married May 9, 1953. He was assigned to Korea shortly thereafter. His first daughter, Susan Lynn, was born in Denison while Williams was in Korea. His second daughter, Kim Elise, was born after he returned and was stationed in Virginia.
The couple was married 46 years. He bragged for years the she was the perfect military wife. After retirement as a Major the Air Force in 1965, with Kathy’s help, he obtained a bachelor’s degree in business education, from Southeastern State University in Durant, Okla.
Jack went on to work as a comptroller for the state of Texas. He retired for the second time. After his second retirement, he and his wife spent lots of time traveling; many cruises and trips to Europe. There was a time when his children would joke, “It’s 10:00. Do you know where your parents are?”
Jack was preceded in death by his parents, sister, son-in-law, and wife. Survivors include his daughters, Susan Lynn Epperson and her husband, Alan of Fort Collins, Colo.; and Kim Elise Huff of Denison. He is survived by his grandchildren, Matthew Huff, Erin Epperson, Michael Huff, and Nathan Epperson, also numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Arrangements are entrusted to the care and direction of Bratcher Funeral Home, 401 W. Woodard St., Denison. For further information, please call the funeral home at (903) 465-2323, or for an online obituary, directions or to leave a condolence, please go to www.bratcherfuneralhome.com. Published in The Herald Democrat on May 19, 2010

Colonel James Leon Draper Jr. |

DRAPER, Colonel James Leon Jr., 93, of Colebrook, Conn., passed away peacefully at home on May 4, 2010. He was born June 22, 1916 in New Haven, the son of James and Marion (Coyne) Draper. His wife, Shirley (Abeling) Draper, predeceased Jim in 2000. He grew up in Morris Cove, attended New Haven public schools, and graduated from the University of Connecticut in 1941, where he served in the ROTC and met his future wife, Shirley. Following graduation, Jim served his country in the U.S. Army as an infantry training officer during World War II, including service under Gen. Stillwell in Burma and as a U.S. advisor in the Korean War. Experiences in both wars involved prolonged combat and intelligence leadership positions under harsh jungle and mountain conditions. In the northern Burma theatre in the summer of 1944, Jim’s unit joined Merrill’s Marauders to win important control of the Myitkyina airfield, eventually pushing on to help facilitate the opening of the Lido and Burma Roads. In the Korean War, he was the first American to cross the 38th parallel into North Korea, as advisor with the South Korean Capital Division. After the Korean War, Jim also served in Germany as executive commander of the Baumholder Army Base, then in Army Intelligence at the Pentagon, and later at the Army Security Agency. Jim was a graduate of the Infantry school, The Command and General Staff College, the Strategic Intelligence school, The National Security Agency and the U.S. Army War College. His military service recognition included the following: Legion of Merit, Bronze Star Medal with one Oak Leaf Cluster; Army Commendation Medal with Metal Pendant; National Defense Service Medal; Special Breast Order of Yun Hui with Ribbon from the Republic of China; Korea Service Medal; Armed Forces Reserve Medal; United Nations Service Medal; Combat Infantry Badge 2nd award; AGS Certificate; Republic of Korea Presidential Citation; the Republic of Korea’s highest awards for Valor and Bravery, the Chung Mu Distinguished Service Medal 3rd Class, and the Wharang Distinguished Service Medal 4th Class. On leaving the Army in 1965, his retirement citation read: “Colonel Draper’s keen perception, ingenuity and extensive military knowledge consistently led to the timely and efficient completion of the intelligence tasks of paramount importance to National security.” When he returned to civilian life, Jim developed successful careers in insurance and real estate. He also formed a partnership which grew to own and operate 23 FM radio stations across the country. Jim and Shirley retired from civilian life in 1976, moving from Fairfax, Va. to their summer home on Highland Lake in Winsted, Conn., eventually settling in Colebrook, where they were active in many local organizations. Jim was a member of the Winsted Rotary Club and, along with Shirley, was honored with the highest honor in Rotary, the Paul Harris Fellowship Award. Jim also served as a director and finance chairman of the Winsted Memorial Hospital. Jim and Shirley have been benefactors of many community and educational programs, including the Northwest Connecticut Community College and the University of Connecticut, where they first met. Northwest Connecticut Community College recognized their generosity by naming their conference center the “Shirley A. Draper Conference Center.” Having previously endowed the Draper Chair in Early American History at UConn, the university recently honored Jim and Shirley by naming Lecture Hall 108 in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences the “James L. and Shirley A. Draper Lecture Hall.” To friends and family, Jim and Shirley’s true legacy is their humility and gracious friendship. They started, as many Connecticut natives who sacrificed their early years together through two wars; he in battle and she on the home front, sometimes not knowing for a year at a time if Jim was alive and if they would be reunited. Both spent their last years as active community members, continuing to live the philosophy that love is service. Jim is survived by his brother, Robert Draper of High Point, North Carolina; nephew, Father Andrew Draper TOR of Mocksville, North Carolina; nephew, David Draper and wife, Jean of Mechanicsville, Virginia; great-nephew, Robert A. Draper III; great-niece, Whitley Draper; brother-in-law, Donald Florian; and dear friends, Susan and Mark Caufield. Burial will be Thursday, May 13 at 10:15 a.m. at Forest View Cemetery in Winsted with military honors. A memorial service will follow at 11 a.m. at the Colebrook Congregational Church in Colebrook with the Rev. Alice Murphy and Father Andrew Draper officiating. Gifts may be made in lieu of flowers to the Winsted Rotary Club, P.O. Box 475, Winsted, Conn. 06098. To leave an online condolence, please visit www.maloneyfuneral.com.

Published in Richmond Times-Dispatch on May 10, 2010

Walker “Bud” Mahurin

Enlarged Photo NEWPORT BEACH, Calif. (AP) – Walker “Bud” Mahurin, a fighter pilot who shot down two dozen planes in two wars and was regarded as one of America’s top aces ever, has died, his wife said Sunday. He was 91.

Joan Mahurin said Bud Mahurin died of natural causes at his home in Newport Beach on Tuesday.

She said her husband kept flying small planes – and kept receiving fan mail – for most of his life.

“He would get letters from teenagers to old war veterans,” Joan Mahurin said.

Doug Lantry, a historian at the National Museum of the United States Air Force in Ohio, said Mahurin’s name is familiar to all in the Air Force.

“Bud Mahurin was the only Air Force pilot to shoot down enemy aircraft in the European theater of operations and the Pacific and in Korea,” Lantry told the Los Angeles Times. “He was known as a very courageous, skilled and tenacious fighter pilot.”

Mahurin was shot down himself, twice during World War II and once in the Korean War, which led to his capture and 16 traumatic months in a prison camp.

A native of Benton Harbor, Mich., Mahurin studied engineering at Purdue University then joined the Army Air Forces in September 1941 – three months before Pearl Harbor.

He went by the call sign “Honest John,” a title he’d later adopt for his memoirs.

During the war he was assigned to a fighter group in England, where the first plane he took down was his own.

Mahurin told the Orange County Register in 2007 that during a training run he flew too close to one of the B-24 bombers he was assigned to protect, hit its propellor and had to bail out.

He would redeem himself a month later, shooting down his first pair of German planes in August 1943 while flying a P-47 Thunderbolt.

By October he had become an ace, meaning he had scored five aerial victories. The number rose to ten later that year, making Mahurin the first “double ace” in the European Theater of Oper ations. Three of the planes he downed came in a single mission.

In March of 1944 he had to bail out of his heavily damaged plane and needed aid from the French Resistance to get back to England.

His knowledge of the resistance made his potential capture in Europe too dangerous and he was grounded, but would fly again in the Phillipines and finished the war with over 20 aerial victories. His later service in the Korean War brought the number to 24.

“I was brought up in an age when flying was the only thing,” Mahurin told the Air Force magazine Airman in 2003, when he was a retired colonel. “We knew the value of being an ace, but you just didn’t try to go out and become an ace. Mostly because, in my case, I was scared to death to begin with. I thought if I just get to meet an ace while on active duty, I’d be happy.”

Along with Joan, his wife of 40 years, Mahurin is survived by two sons, a daughter and a stepdaughter.

Mahurin will be buried at Arlington National Cemetery on Aug. 11 with full military honors.

HARRY WARREN BACHUS Sr. |

BACHUS, HARRY WARREN, SR. October 3, 1921 – May 17, 2010 World War II POW and one of the Famed “Candy Bombers” of the Berlin Airlift Dedicated family man, combat pilot, Purple Heart recipient, and lifelong Auburn football fan; Harry Warren Bachus Sr. of Pensacola, Florida answered the call of his Heavenly Father into eternal rest on Monday, May 17, 2010. A loving husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather and friend who will be dearly missed by all who knew him, he was a patriot, with Christian principles who stood for what was right and what was good in the world. In the aftermath of D-Day, on June 29, 1944 Allied aircraft commenced Operation RAMROD, Harry piloted a B-17G which targeted factories in Leipzig, Germany. The cloud cover obscured the target on the initial bombing run. While ultimately proving successful, German fighters and anti-aircraft batteries did considerable damage to the formation on the second run. Harry’s plane lost two engines and was unable to maintain altitude, but he kept his bomber airborne long enough for his crew to bailout over Holland. Despite a badly injured right knee, and with the aid of Dutch partisans, Harry managed to evade the Germans for several weeks before being captured. Harry’s teeth were knocked out and his leg was further injured during interrogations by the Gestapo at the Bergen-Belsen concentration camp. A German Luftwaffe pilot learned of an American pilot being held in the concentration camp and secured his transfer to Stalag Luft III, a POW camp for Allied officers in Western Poland. Stalag Luft III was the scene of escapes made famous by the movie “The Great Escape”. In a move to prevent the advancing Russian Army from overtaking the camp, the Germans force-marched the prisoners through the snow to awaiting cattle cars. They were then transported several hundred miles south to Stalag Luft 7A at Mooseberg, near Munich. Eventually liberated by General Patton and the Third Army, Harry recalled fondly seeing Patton himself crashing through the gates in the lead tank. After World War II, Harry became a test pilot, fulfilling a childhood dream, and eventually returned to Germany to fly in the Berlin Airlift. Based on a “Stars and Stripes” article in 1949, Harry was one of a handful of pilots who gained fame as the “Candy Bombers,” pilots who would make low passes over the Allied sectors of Berlin and Germany, dropping candy over schools and city parks for children. Harry earned a footnote in Air Force history as the only pilot to “bomb” seven German cities in one day, including his old prison camp in Mooseberg, on the last mission of Operation “Little Vittles.” He retired as a Civil Service employee at the Naval Aerospace Medical Center, Pensacola. He also worked into his 80’s as a delivery driver for Hackbarth Delivery Service. Harry was born and raised in Birmingham, and had an early ambition to attend Alabama Polytechnic Institute (later Auburn University). He worked a number of jobs as a young man and proudly tells of having saved over $5,000, enough to pay for four years of coursework. He entered Auburn in 1941, but his studies were interrupted when he volunteered for the Army Air Corps. Later in life, Harry enjoyed attending Auburn football games with his wife Faye, members of his church, and his nephew, Spencer T. Bachus III of Birmingham. Published in The Birmingham News on May 19, 2010

Clifford Rotz “Bud” Martin Jr. |
Clifford “Bud” Rotz Martin Jr., age 90, March 2 1920 – May 10 2010 resident of Penn Hall Retirement Village, Chambersburg, PA, joined his loving wife, Geraldine in final rest. Born in Greencastle, PA, Clifford was the son of Clifford Rotz Martin Sr. and Blanche Kuhn Martin. An only child, Cliff spoke fondly of spending his formative years on the farm of his grandparents, William R. Martin and Laura E. Rotz Martin. After completing his early schooling Clifford went on to attend Penn State Mont Alto, where he majored in forestry. Prior to completing college Clifford enlisted in the Army and served in the United States Military Intelligence division during World War II. He was the survivor of a Pacific Ocean plane crash that left him floating adrift for three days only to be captured and then spared by the Japanese. Clifford also witnessed the horrors of the Holocaust as a member of one of the first waves on scene to free victims in the concentration camps. A world traveler, he spent several years in Europe with his wife and daughter. Among his claims to fame, was the accomplishment of having spent time in 49 of the 50 states of the United States of America. His passing came a mere two weeks prior to a scheduled trip to Alaska, his last frontier, and his ultimate goal of reaching all fifty states.

Clifford was the husband of Geraldine Flack Martin whom preceded him in death on April 5, 2000, after 61 years of marriage. Surviving relatives are a daughter, Bonnie Lee Martin Simms of FL; granddaughter, Lisa Leigh Simms of NJ; grandson, Michael Wayne Simms of IL; great-grandchild, Duncan Wayne Simms; and nephew, Greg Thompson, PA. Connected by heart if not by blood Wayne, Christine, and Kim (Kaczynski) Simms, KY.

In his heyday Clifford was an avid hunter and formidable poker player. A voracious historian, he was particularly passionate about the World War II era. Throughout his life, to the very end, Clifford found joy spending time with friends, traveling, attending live musical performances, and conversations over a good meal with a three olive Martini. Never at a loss for words, Clifford took pride in being the “squeaky wheel.” He was an advocate for change and while at times coming across as harsh, his heart was always in the right place.

Services of remembrance and celebration will be conducted by Father Patrick Pierce,
at the Trinity Episcopal Church, 58 South 2nd Street, Chambersburg on Monday,
May 17, 2010 at 11:00 AM; where friends will be received one hour prior to the service. In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to the Trinity Episcopal Church, the American Cancer Society , or honor a military veteran with a sincere “Thank You”, a meal, or a moment of your time.

Arrangements are entrusted to Thomas L. Geisel Funeral Home and Cremation Center, Chambersburg, PA. Online condolences may be offered at www.geiselfuneralhome.com. Published in Public Opinion from May 14 to May 16, 2010

Mr. Wesley Charles Waddle

Wesley Charles Waddle was a modest man, quiet and observant in his ways. He was trustworthy and traditional in his approach to his life and in his relationships. He was fair-minded with a helpful and gentle disposition that earned the respect of all who knew him. He was also a man who was kind, loving, and respectful. Realistic about life, he was always at the ready, prepared to take on responsibility. He was born to William and Alpha Waddle on December 4, 1924 in Picher, Oklahoma. Wesley has one sibling; a younger sister, Lillie. They are 16 months apart in age. He and Lillie experienced the death of their parents at a very young age. Wesley was 5 years old when his father died of tuberculosis and 7 years old when his mother died of the same disease. After the death of their parents, Wes and Lillie went to live with their maternal grandmother, Mary Williams. Soon thereafter, the family moved to Kansas City, Kansas to be closer to other relatives, including cousins who were similar in age to Wes and Lillie. Wes experienced many hardships as he grew up. The dustbowl was affecting Kansas, as was the great depression. Wes often had to stand in soup lines to eat. His grandmother did what she could to provide for the children by taking in ironing and washing clothes, but money was very scarce. When Wes reached the eighth grade, he left school to work. School had been hard for him, and he knew that he had to help bring in money for the family. He…
Wesley Charles Waddle was a modest man, quiet and observant in his ways. He was trustworthy and traditional in his approach to his life and in his relationships. He was fair-minded with a helpful and gentle disposition that earned the respect of all who knew him. He was also a man who was kind, loving, and respectful. Realistic about life, he was always at the ready, prepared to take on responsibility.

He was born to William and Alpha Waddle on December 4, 1924 in Picher, Oklahoma.

Wesley has one sibling; a younger sister, Lillie. They are 16 months apart in age. He and Lillie experienced the death of their parents at a very young age. Wesley was 5 years old when his father died of tuberculosis and 7 years old when his mother died of the same disease.

After the death of their parents, Wes and Lillie went to live with their maternal grandmother, Mary Williams. Soon thereafter, the family moved to Kansas City, Kansas to be closer to other relatives, including cousins who were similar in age to Wes and Lillie.

Wes experienced many hardships as he grew up. The dustbowl was affecting Kansas, as was the great depression. Wes often had to stand in soup lines to eat. His grandmother did what she could to provide for the children by taking in ironing and washing clothes, but money was very scarce. When Wes reached the eighth grade, he left school to work. School had been hard for him, and he knew that he had to help bring in money for the family. He became a farm-helper working to plant, harvest, and repair farm equipment for area farms.

For fun, Wes loved to fish. It would continue to be his favored past-time throughout his life. Also, owing to his calm, easy-going nature, he was often expected to get his little sister out of trouble during their early years.

As the Great Depression wore on, Wes and all of his family moved to Lodi, California to seek better work opportunities. There, he worked in agriculture for a time, but then sought work that would provide better pay; he found a job as a ship fitter.

When he turned 18, he enlisted in the Army during World War II. He was in the 211th Army Air Force Base Unit. He was assigned to an Airborne unit and an Engineering Unit. He was a medic and spent most of his time in England caring for wounded soldiers in the military hospitals. However, he was later sent to the front line in Belgium and Luxemburg during the Battle of the Bulge where he was a field medic. In total, he was in the army for three years. He received several awards recognizing him for his service, including a Bronze Star, Good Conduct Medal, Honorable Service Button, American Campaign Medal, European-African-Middle Eastern Campaign Medal, and World War II Victory Medal. When his tour ended, he re-enlisted in the Air Force; however, after only three months he was honorably discharged due to medical reasons.

His time on the front lines of the Battle of the Bulge had triggered schizophrenia and Post-Traumatic Stress Syndrome. After his discharge, he spent time in several Veterans Hospitals being treated, including through the use of Electric Shock Therapy. He hated the hospitals and escaped from at least one of them. During this time, he began riding the rails across the United States looking for work and inner peace. He also began to drink heavy and would continue to do so for many years to come.

After a hospitalization in California, Wes went to live with his sister in Stockton, California. There he met Marie Barnette and eventually married her. She had a son from a previous relationship, Butch. Again, to provide for a family, Wes worked in the agricultural fields, planting and harvesting crops. Over time, the family grew to include a daughter, Janice, and a son, Kent. Marie then gave birth to another son, Henry, who was fathered during an extramarital affair. However, Wes accepted the child and gave him his last name.

In 1952, Wes was diagnosed with malignant melanoma. It started on his back and spread throughout the right side of his face and neck. The only treatment available was extensive surgery. The prognosis for recovery was bleak, but against the odds, God spared his life. When he returned home from the surgery, he found Marie had resumed her affair. Soon, she bundled up his clothes and set them outside for him to find when he came home from work. Her cruelty hurt him and he began to drink more heavily. He also returned to life on the road, riding freight trains and hitchhiking aimlessly. When he did return to Stockton, he would occasionally stay with his sister, but often went to stay and work at a Rescue Mission. If that was not possible, he would live on the streets.

On one trip by freight train, he found himself in Portland, Oregon. There he went into the Rescue Mission and met Elizabeth Bjorseth. She and her husband ministered to the homeless and provided food and shelter to those who wanted to rehabilitate. Wes stayed with her twice. The second time, he decided to continue living there. He gave his heart to the Lord and stopped drinking. He never drank again.

It was during this time that he met two of his closest friends – Jack Graham and Obert Bjorseth. They both had come from the streets and understood Wes’ struggles. They would remain good friends for the rest of their lives. When they met, they all began attending Maranatha Church of God. Maranatha is where Wes found Mae Wagoner.

On September 18, 1971 Wesley exchanged wedding vows with Mae LaVonne Wagoner at Maranatha Church of God of Portland, Oregon. Gentlemanly and loyal, Wesley was committed to making his family happy.

Together, Wes and Mae began their life together. She worked for the Oregon Health Science University, and helped Wes become employed there as a groundskeeper. They both continued to work there until their respective retirements.

In August 1973, they welcomed their daughter, Elizabeth, into the world. Life now settled into relative normalcy for Wes and his young family. In 1981, Wes and Mae purchased their family home. They would continue to live there until May 2008 when they moved into a retirement village.

Unfortunately, Wes again developed health problems. In 1982, Mae was informed that he was within twenty-four hours of death from internal bleeding. Again, God intervened and spared his life. The doctors were unable to explain the recovery. During this time, Wes also had multiple surgeries on his feet and intense pain in his back. He was told later that the issues with his feet likely resulted from severe frostbite during the Battle of the Bulge. His back pain was caused from trauma to his body. Recent x-rays showed that at different points in his life almost all of his bones had been broken.

When Wesley’s retirement finally arrived in 1983, he was well prepared. His new life involved tending his garden more carefully and expanding the already large selection of plants and vegetables. He planted and tended a personal garden every year until 2000.

Because Wes had been given a second chance at life through the kindness of strangers taking him into their home, he and Mae carried on that ministry. Throughout the years, many needy people, including those from prisons, would call the Waddle home their home. For some, the time spent was life changing, for some it was just a stopping point. Either way, they experienced God’s love and where given the help and opportunity to get on their feet again.

In September 2000, Wes was diagnosed with lung cancer and given a 10% chance to live out the year. In spite of the prognosis and his age, 75 years old, he was determined to believe God for life and fight. He had surgery to remove the upper quadrant of his left lung and then went through chemotherapy. By God’s grace, he once again survived the odds and lived another ten years, enjoying life and experiencing many of his life’s dreams.

Wes found pleasure in fishing, especially deep sea fishing. He was quite good at it and even in his 70s would often land the biggest fish on the ship. Into his eighties, he and his good friend, David Wiley, would go fishing together. Sometimes they caught something; often they brought home fish stories.

Wes’ faith was important to him; it sustained him. He was a member of several churches throughout his life. After coming to Portland, he was involved in the church choir at Maranatha Church of God. He later became a Licensed Minister at the Full Gospel Community Church of Milwaukie and was one of the Associate Pastors. Wes’ dedication to the preaching of the Gospel also led to him and Mae ministering with the Oregon Prison Ministries. His last home church was the Dwelling Place in Milwaukie, Oregon.

Wes enjoyed traveling and time away on vacations. It was a chance for him to renew and relax, to visit new places and experience new things; although, for many, a Waddle vacation would not be considered relaxing. Wes was afraid to fly, but he loved to drive and could comfortably drive twelve hours a day, sightseeing alone the way. His love of driving and longevity behind the wheel passed to Liz. When Wes became too ill to drive, Liz took over so the family could continue to travel. Although he, Mae, and Liz, traveled the USA extensively, he was most fond of Yellowstone and took his family there often; any day that he could watch buffalo in the wild was considered a good day. Wes also longed to see Alaska, so in August 2005 the family took a cruise to Alaska. Everyone loved the trip, but Wes considered it a trip of a lifetime.
In 2006, they drove the entire Lewis and Clark trail, plus a couple of side excursions. Liz drove 5500 miles in eighteen days and Wes loved every minute of it. In total, he and his family drove through 26 states during their family vacations.

In April 2009, Wes’ health took a serious turn for the worse. His breathing became extremely labored and he was losing energy; although, not the will to live. He was enrolled in Hospice and was cared for by Mae, his friend Dave Wiley, a health aide, Alice, and Hospice staff until he was transferred to a nursing home in February 2010. Until the day he died, he thanked God for every day given to him. Just before his move to the nursing home, he told Liz, “every day is harder to survive, but I thank God for every day.”

Wesley passed away on May 2, 2010 at Avamere Clackamas Rehabilitation Center. Wesley died of a multitude of problems largely cause by the lung cancer he survived in 2000. He is survived by his wife, Mae; his daughters, Janice and Elizabeth, and his son, Kent; his grandchildren Laurie, Rhonda, and Lynette; and 5 great-grand children. Services were held at Lincoln Memorial. Wesley was laid to rest in Willamette National Cemetary.

Simply stated, Wesley was a good and kind person, an individual who will for all time be remembered by his family and friends as being a caring and giving person, someone who was a vital part of their lives. Wesley leaves behind him a legacy of life-long friendships and many cherished memories. Everyone whose life he touched will always remember Mr. Wesley Charles Waddle.

Dr. James O. Hightower Jr. |
AIKEN, S.C. – James O. Hightower, Jr. died peacefully on May 18, at his home in Aiken, SC. Born to James O. and Kitty Hightower; he grew up in Jonesboro Georgia. He was a graduate of Jonesboro High School. Dr. Hightower enlisted in the Navy and served as a corpsman for over two years during the Korean War. He left the Navy to pursue a Degree in Zoology at the University of Georgia. Following his graduation from UGA, he earned his medical degree from the Medical College of Georgia in 1958. As a physician he joined the military serving as a flight surgeon and medical officer for 27 years in the Air Force. During that time he earned a Masters in Public Health from the University of California, Berkley. He then turned his ambition to Aerospace Medicine and graduated from the U.S. Air Force School of Aerospace Medicine, San Antonio, Texas. As a Specialist in Bioastronautics he was responsible for the health, safety and performance of pilots. As a young Captain he served in Viet Nam where he was recognized as Flight Surgeon of the Year for his efforts at reducing risks to combat flight crews. Other recognitions during his wartime service included the Distinguished Flying Cross Medal, Two Air Medals with 5 clusters, Air Force Commendation Medal, National Defense Medal with cluster, Vietnam Service Medal with 3 clusters, RVN Campaign Medal, RVN Gallantry Cross with Palm leaf, Two Meritorious Service Medals with Cluster and Two Legion of Merit Medals. Dr. Hightower also earned the Korean War Medal during his service with the US Navy during the Korean War. On his return from Vietnam he spent the next two years on the Manned Orbital Space Laboratory (MOL) as a flight surgeon to the astronauts selected to the MOL space program. Following his service to the U.S. Space program he spent four years stationed in Alaska, Elmendorf AFB as the Alaskan Air Command Flight Surgeon. Completing his service in Alaska, Col. Hightower was stationed at Luke AFB, AZ, as the Hospital Commander and then assigned to Langley AFB, VA, in the same position. Col. Hightower was then assigned to the Air Force Surgeon General’s Office at Brooks- Randolph AFB, TX. Dr. Hightower settled in Aiken, SC. following his military retirement and began his second career in Occupational Medicine for Savannah River Plant, I.E. DuPont. After a short time he was selected as the Medical Director at the Savannah River Site where he served for nineteen years. Dr. Hightower was an avid outdoorsman enjoying hunting, fishing and gardening. Dr. Hightower was a member of Retired Officer’s Club, the Military Officers Association of America, and the Aiken County Medical Society. His greatest enjoyment was being Granddaddy to his fifteen grandchildren, Uncle to his nieces and nephews and Dad to his six children. In addition to his wife, Sarah Anne ( Sally) Hightower, he is survived by six children, sons, Steve (Tammy) Hightower, Greg (Dawn) Hightower, daughters, Karen (Mark) Uhle, Trudy (Warren) Voltz, Bea Hightower (Art) Aiken and Katie (Doug) Walker, and 15 grandchildren, Sarah Hightower, Russell Hightower, Andy Hightower, Megan Hightower, Annie Uhle, Michael Uhle, Katelyn Voltz, Jacob Voltz, Alex Hightower, Cullen Hightower, Hugh Aiken, Lily Aiken, Alexandra Walker, Kaycee Walker, and Sammy Walker. He will be missed dearly by his family and friends. To Dad ‘You gave the greatest gift to all of us, the Love of Family.’ Thank you, We all promise to ‘Straighten Up and Fly Right’. Memorials may be directed to the Tamassee DAR School, P.O. Box 8, Tamassee, SC 29686. Online donations may be made at www.TDAR School.org. Dr. Hightower’s online guest book may be signed at www.shell housefuneralhome.com. Graveside services will be held Saturday, May 22, at 11:30 a.m., Westover Cemetery, Augusta, GA Family and Guests will receive friends Friday, May 21, from 6-8 pm at Shellhouse Funeral Home, 924 Hayne Ave. Aiken, SC. Sign the guestbook at AugustaChronicle.com

Published in The Augusta Chronicle on May 20, 2010

William Paul Snyder |

William Paul Snyder
Mr. Snyder of Charlotte, NC died May 18, 2010 at the age of 77 at his residence with his wife, Connie, holding his hand. Paul was born May 7, 1933 in Greensboro, NC to the late Rev. Samuel Snyder and Leola Hardy Snyder. The family moved to Thomasville, NC, which he always referred to as his hometown.
He joined the army after high school in 1950. He served in the Korean War with the First Calvary Division as a staff sergeant and a squad leader. He was wounded June 19, 1951 and was awarded the Purple Heart and the Combat Infantryman Badge. He was also awarded the Korean Service Medal with 4 bronze stars, UN Korean Service Medal, ROK War Service Medal and the National Defense Medal. He was a life-time member of the First Calvary Division Association. He was awarded a Certificate of Appreciation from the Freedom Team, signed by Chief of Staff, General George W. Casey and Pete Geren, Secretary of the Army.
In 1953, he started his career in commercial printing. He retired as the former owner and president of Discount Printing, Inc.
He was preceded in death by his father, Rev. Samuel Snyder, mother, Leola Snyder Henderson, step-father, Joel Henderson, sister-in-law, Charlotte Snyder, and many more dear friends and relatives.
He is survived by his wife of 52 years, Connie Bell Snyder; his brother, John Snyder; two nephews and their families, Mark and Lois Snyder and sons, Isaac and Justin, and Michael and Lisa Snyder and son, Shane.
Paul’s family would like to thank Dr. Joseph Mueller and his staff, Dr. William Roberts and his staff, Dr. David Scholtz and his staff, Dr. James Boyd and his staff, all the nurses and staff on the third floor of Presbyterian Hospital, and the staff at Presbyterian Hospice and Palliative Care for all the tender care they gave him. We want to thank Dr. Wyatt Fowler for his help and care for Paul as he struggled with his illness. He would always show up at the right time with a smile and soft gentle words of encouragement.
A special thank you to JoAnn Carrigan and Gene Towe for their love and support through all of Paul’s illnesses.
A memorial service to celebrate Paul’s life will be held Sunday, June 6, 2010 from 2:00-4:00pm at St. Mary’s Chapel, 1129 East Third Street.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Presbyterian Hospice and Palliative Care, PO Box 33549, Charlotte, NC 28244-3549. Published in Charlotte Observer from May 22 to May 23, 2010