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Lanny Molica
passed away in Oct 24,
2006 at the young age of 85 from cancer.
Lanny is pictured
2nd from right on the front row, (double-click the following
link)
MSR Support Team Meck Island 1975
Raytheon, Kwaj 1969-71, 1974-76. |
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Harold H. Gagne,
79, of College Highway, Southampton, died Wednesday, Jan. 9, in his home. He was born in
Holyoke Jan. 7, 1929, the son of the late Harvey G. and Alice H. (Kurtz) Gagne. He
attended schools in Holyoke and later enlisted in the U.S. Navy during World War II,
serving in the Asiatic/Pacific Theater on the USS Libra AKA12.
Harold worked at the Roi-Namur Marina for years. |
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Clyde Ward Cato, Jr. age 67, a
resident of Okeechobee, died March 3, 2008 after a lengthy illness. He was born and raised
in Ft. Pierce, Fl.; graduated from Dan McCarty High School. He was then drafted by the US
Army and completed his tour of duty in Korea. He later spent many years in the South
Pacific working for RCA – Range Systems, Lockhead Martin and Raytheon Engineering
where he retired.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Clyde W. Cato, Sr. and Anne Brown Cato; and his
brother, William C. Cato.
Survivors include his three sisters, Bonnie (Thomas) Peer, Jr. of Okeechobee, Betty Waugh
of Tallahassee and Sandra Cato of West Palm Beach; his Aunt Marieta Raulerson Brown;
Cousin, Barbara Brown, both of Ocala. He is also survived by a loving host of nephews,
nieces, grand nephews and grand nieces; and his companion “Cricket”.
Visitation will be held Saturday, March 8, 2008 at 10:00 a.m. with funeral services
following at 11:00 a.m. at Bass Okeechobee Funeral Home, 205 NE 2nd St., Okeechobee Fl.
34972. Pastor Bruce Simpson of First United Methodist Church will be officiating.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Okeechobee Senior Services, 1019 SW Park
St., Okeechobee Fl. 34974.
Friends may sign the guest book at www.bassokeechobeefuneralhome.com.
Clyde worked at the supply department at TRADEX for years.
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John C. Szczepanski Passes
Subject: Another Sad News Item, Mon, received: 18 Feb 2008 10:28:13 -0500 from Randy
Razook, MIT Lincoln Laboratory, Huntsville, AL 35806
Hi Shermie,
Sad to say that Dr. John Szczepanski (Dr. Z) passed away last week here in Huntsville. He
was a superb keyboard player with The Zooks and MIT Site Manager from 2004-2005. A great
person as well as a great leader. He will be missed very much. Here is his bio:
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
John C. Szczepanski, Lincoln Laboratory Senior Staff Member, U.S. Army Lieutenant Colonel
(Ret.), 58
Physicist John C. Szczepanski, a retired Lieutenant Colonel in the Army, former Assistant
Professor of Physics at the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, and Technical Staff
member at MIT Lincoln Laboratory for the past 15 years, died on February 11 in Huntsville,
Alabama, after a brief illness. He was 58.
John was born on May 19, 1949, and grew up in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. He received his BS
in engineering from the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, his MS in computer science
from New York Polytechnic Institute, and his SM and PhD in physics from MIT. Dr.
Szczepanski retired from active duty in the Army in May of 1993, having served for 22
years. He retired at the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. During his Army career, Dr.
Szczepanski served as a research staff officer for the U.S. Army Strategic Defense
Command, as an Assistant Professor of Physics at the U.S. Military Academy at West Point,
and in many assignments in the Air Defense Artillery.
He joined MIT Lincoln Laboratory in June of 1993 as a staff member in the Ballistic
Missile Defense Systems Engineering and Analysis Group. He worked in the early
risk-reduction phase of the THAAD and Ground-Based Radar programs until his assignment to
the Reagan Test Site (RTS) at U.S. Army Kwajalein Atoll in 1999. He served in several
capacities at RTS, including Site Manager, before returning to Lincoln Laboratory’s
main facility in Lexington, Massachusetts, in September 2004. Upon his return, he served
as Group Leader of the Missile Defense Elements Group. The Missile Defense Elements Group
supports the analysis, system development, and technology transfer needs of the Missile
Defense Agency (MDA) elements. Dr. Szczepanski recently served as the Technical Director
for the MDA Office of Testing, Fielding and Integration.
In an address during an MDA meeting, Major General Chris T. Anzalone, deputy for Test,
Integration and Fielding, MDA, said, “With saddened heart it is my duty to inform you
that a great man, brilliant engineer, and devoted husband and father has passed. John was
instrumental in forming the technical solutions needed to ready the missile defenses that
defend our great nation. He had the uncanny ability to bridge the very complex technical
issues with the needs of the warfighters in a manner few could succeed in. John will be
dearly missed by the men and women of the Missile Defense Agency and deserves the
admiration of a grateful nation.” Funeral services will be held on February 19 at
1:30 p.m. at the West Point Cemetery at the U.S. Military Academy in West Point, New York.
Dr. Szczepanski is survived by his wife, Christina; two sons, John, of Florida, and Mike,
of Tennessee; and a daughter, Kristina Marie MacPherson, of Massachusetts. He is also
survived by five grandchildren with a sixth expected soon. |
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Edna M. Hatchell, 75, passed away on February 1, 2008 in San Jose, Costa Rica. She was born May
21, 1932 in Fort Wayne, Indiana to the late Carl D. and Edna M. (Wappas) Frech. Edna was a
resident of Colorado Springs since 1970. She was a painter, avid bowler, and enjoyed doing
crafts. Edna was also a member of the Al Kaly Temple. She is preceded in death by her
husband Richard F. Hatchell, Sr. and a brother Carl E. Frech. Edna is survived by three
children, Karl F. (Mary) Fisher of Castle Rock, Colorado, Tracy G. (Douglas O.) Bernero of
Highlands Ranch, Colorado, and Richard F. Hatchell III of Costa Mesa, California; one
brother Calvin D. Frech of Fort Wayne, Indiana and six grandchildren, Karli Fisher, Kelly
Fisher, Laura Bernero, Natalie Bernero, Griffin Hatchell, and Mackenzie Hatchell.
Visitation will be held 3:00-7:00pm Thursday February 7, 2008 at Blunt Mortuary 2229 West
Colorado Avenue, Colorado Springs, Colorado 80904. Funeral services will take place
10:00am Friday February 8, 2008 at Blunt; burial will follow at Fairview Cemetery. |
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Hildegard Johnson, wife of SFC
John Johnson died on Jan 25th 1999 from pancreatic cancer. Hildegard was from
Germany. She is survived by her mother, Marie Koch ,and two step sisters.
She is buried at Fort Snelling National Cemetery in Bloomington, Minnesota.
Hildegard enjoyed life and loved music. May she rest in peace.
Hildegard was on Kwajalein from 1987 through
1988. Hildegard always volunteered to work at the post office and help with mail.
She also worked for Jim Oakley at the VFW tending bar. She had lots of fun that
year. Shermie Wiehe was a good friend to both Johnny and Hildegard. Shermie
has provided a webpage in respect to his late friend Hildegard, In Memory of Hildegard Johnson.
The picture at right was taken by Shermie during Johnny Johnson's 50th birthday party that
was given by Hildegard. Not knowing at the time the pain she was having during this
party was later determined to be pancreatic cancer that took her life. She loved her
husband dearly and treated all her friends and with respect. |
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| Dr. Bing Potts, 61,
son of the late Ralph and Esta Potts of New Martinsville, WV passed away on November 4,
2007 at the Kalispell Regional Medical Center, Kalispell, MT after a long illness.
He was preceded in death by his sister, Eleanor Witschey, of New Martinsville, WV.
Survivors include his wife Patty, son Michael of Milford, NH, daughter Jennifer of
Lexington, KY, sisters Vern Hunt of New Martinsville, June Mortimer of Salyersville, KY,
Nancy Goetz of Lexington, KY, JoAnn Kay of New Martinsville, sister-in-law Tammy Mallamo
of Dover, DE and several nieces and nephews. Bing was a 1964 graduate of Magnolia
High School in New Martinsville, received his BS from the University of Kentucky in 1968,
his Masters Degree from the University of Kentucky in 1970, and his PhD in Electrical
Engineering from the New Mexico State University in 1973. Bing was an employee of The
Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Lincoln Laboratory for his entire career of 33
years during which he was a resident of Acton, MA. His profession took him and his
family on three tours totaling 13 years to Kwajalein in the Marshall Islands. He
served in the United States Air Force and the United States Air Force Reserves. Bing
was an avid fly fisherman, outdoorsman, and woodworker. Bing was a world traveler in the
pursuit of the largest fish and the most beautiful places where fish live. Family
will receive friends on Sunday, November 11, 2007 from noon until time of service at
2:00pm at Grisell Funeral Home & Crematory, 751 Third Street, New Martinsville with
Pastor Bob Brooks officiating. A reception will follow the service at the New
Martinsville United Methodist Church, 10 Howard Jeffers Drive, New Martinsville.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Histiocytosis Association of America, 333 North
Broadway, Pitman, NJ 08071. |
Bing and his family completed three
tours at Kwajalein, totaling 13 years.
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Patrick Anthony Chalmers
December 05, 1974 – November 13, 2007
Kwaj 1989-1997
Patrick was taken from us too soon. He lived, loved and laughed everyday to the fullest.
Patrick touched many lives, and we thank the Lord for providing us with such a
blessing. Patrick was the son and best friend of George and Ok Chalmers, big brother
and best friend to Shelley Chalmers-Ranney. Today our hearts grieve for Patrick, but
we remember that he would want us to celebrate his life as he did everyday. We are all
blessed to have such a beautiful angel watching over us until one day we meet again.
A Memorial Service will be held on Tuesday, November 19, 2007 at 2 p.m. in The Cave (the
Old Sanctuary) located at the south end of the campus at the First Church of the Nazarene,
4120 E Fountain Boulevard in Colorado Springs, Colorado. |
October 2007
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From:
<Choky3420@aol.com>
Subject: Re: Obit Notice - Patrick Chalmers
Date: Mon, 19 Nov 2007 09:39:12 EST
To: <shermie@wiehes.com>
Shermie:
We are still awaiting the final report on the investigation - still waiting on the truck
inspector to finish his investigation. From what we saw when we visited the site, it
looks like Pat used up his air breaks avoiding a car with a blown out tire. Pat
controlled the truck through all the S-curves and was heading down a straight-away and
then all of a sudden the tire tracks veer off to across the road. What was crazy is
that even when he went off the road, there was a flat clearing where if he had breaks he
would have been able to stop the truck. Unfortunately right now we can only
speculate... and really we may never know.
Please do pass on obit and any other information to everyone. Pat was on Kwaj
1989-1997 when the family PCS'd. If anyone would like to send condolences, they
can call 719-579-6970 (Mom & Dad's home), 602-402-1426 (me) or mail to 645
Concerto Drive, Colorado Springs, CO 80906.
Please keep us in your thoughts and prayers. We should all be so thankful that we
had Pat in our lives... he always made sure we all had a great time and we all were
smiling. There's only one Pat... and I have huge shoes to try and fill as best I
can.
Thanks and God Bless, Shelley Chalmers-Ranney
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Gray, Bob & Jayne
On June 22, 2007, Jayne Lillian Gray, 85 years old, died at Life Care Center of Reno. Six
days later, 2 months before their 64th wedding anniversary, and just like the night they
first met at the USO, 86 year old Robert Lawrence Gray Jr., escorted her home to ask for
another dance. While she played hard to get and said “No” the first time, this
time we think she will say yes.
Happily Married
Robert Lawrence Gray Jr., born Mar 10, 1921 in New Boston, OH
was the youngest son of a steelworker
that turned girl’s heads as he walked the school halls,
a pack of cigarettes in the sleeve of his t-shirt. Jayne Lillian Gray was born in
Woodbury, New Jersey Feb 20, 1923. She had star like beauty, a quick laugh and an
impenetrable desire to enjoy life. At a USO function
during WWII, Jayne-a “Rosie the Riveter” met Robert-a handsome young submariner
serving in the Pacific.
They married shortly thereafter and began a life together filled with fun, love, and
adventure. |
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Departing Kwaj
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Toasting the many happy years
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After the war, Robert transferred to the Air Force where
they explored the world together, living in places such as Libya, Germany, Hawaii and
Kwajalein, each place chosen with an emphasis on where their children could learn the most
about the world around them. Bob and his family lived on Kwajalein from 1965-1972 where
Bob was the Communication Manager for Kentron and Jayne was an administrative assistant
with Global. Wherever they were, and whatever they were doing it was “the best
place they had ever been”. Robert and Jayne finally settled in Hawaii where they
developed American Overseas Employees Association, a firm that provided resources to
people who wanted to relocate and gain employment overseas. All along the way they shared
their lives with hundreds of people who remember them to this day with love and
admiration.
Jayne was fond of reading, and enjoyed her favorite soap opera: As the World Turns.
Robert’s passions were fishing, gardening and could always be counted on to bring a
beautiful flower or two to the ladies in the office. Dancing was their greatest pleasure
together, often not letting a week pass without putting their dance shoes on. But most of
all they loved each other.
Seven years ago, they both became ill with progressive dementia. Fortunately, they were
able to continue to live together, and dance whenever the music moved them.
They are survived by their children, Barbie J. Jarman, Dr. John F. Gray (Wife-Shelly),
Robert Lawrence Gray III (Wife-Wendi), their six grandchildren Jimmy and Jeramy Jarman,
Leah Gray (Now Guichu), Lindsey Gray, Keegan and Noah Gray, and their three
great-grandchildren Zachary, Jacob, and Cole Jarman.
They were wonderful parents and grandparents and will always be loved and deeply missed.
A private Memorial Service to celebrate their life will be held at the residence of Dr.
John F. Gray on July 1. Later in the company of their family, they will be surrendered to
the Pacific Ocean where their life together began off the coast of their beloved Hawaii.
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^Bachelor Beach & fishing trips in the J-boats> |
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Local girls of the Marshall Islands
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Bob Gray enjoying the fishing trip
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Kwaj Carnival - Dunk'um |
The Richardson |
Pictures and obituary
provided by Robert L. Gray III <aeroknut@mindspring.com>
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| Huckabay, Zachary Taylor 91, passed away on Thursday, April 19, 2007. He was
born in Magnolia, AR. Zach is survived by his wife, Majorie; Sons, Warren and David;
five grandchildren, two great grandchildren; and sisters Elizabeth Dozier and Valerie
Attwood. Funeral services were held on Wednesday, April 25, 2007 at St. Paul's
Anglican Church. Graveside services with full military honors were held at the Georgia
National Cemetery on April 30, 2007. The family has asked that donations be made in Zach's
name to: Boy's Home Inc., 306 Boys' Home Road, Covington, VA 24426, http://www.boyshomeinc.org.
Warren Huckabay, 21422 SE 37th Street, Sammamish, WA 98075, (425) 392-8905 (h), (425)
830-5282 (c), huckwarren@comcast.net.
Zach Huckabay was a former employee of Global Associates (Resident Manager in Hawaii 1968
- 1980) and part of the resident management team for Global on the island during the early
seventies. |
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| Chang, Edwin Su Chull 84, of Honolulu, died March 30, 2007. Born in Honolulu.
Retired chief of police in Kwajalein. Survived by daughter, Edean Takumi; son Howard; a
grandchild; sister, Winifred Silva. Committal service 3 p.m. Monday at National Memorial
Cemetery of the Pacific. No flowers. Aloha attire. Arrangements by Borthwick Mortuary. |
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| Sasiela, Richard of Sudbury died March 8, 2007, after a valiant battle against
cancer. He is survived by his wife Joan, his daughter and son-in-law Amy and Scott Prince
and three grandchildren, Keith, Sonia and Bailey of Sudbury; daughter Dawn of Austin, TX,
brothers Ronald and Joseph. A Memorial Service will be held March 24, 2007 at 3 PM at
First Parish of Sudbury. In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to the Massachusetts
Audubon Society or the Trustees of Reservations. Duckett Funeral Home of J.S. Waterman
& Sons 978-443-5777. Published in the Boston Globe on 3/11/2007. View /
Sign Guest Book |
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| Gibbons, Richard F. Age 71, of South Carolina, formerly of East Boston died Feb. 9, 2007. He was the
beloved husband of Dorothy of South Carolina; father of Joan and her husband Eli Stillwell
of Holliston; Chuck and his wife Sue of Framingham; Jim and his wife Carol of Derry, NH;
grandfather of Tricia and Nicky, Michelle and Alex; also you-gly dog and three huskies.
Also survived by a brother Bill of Arlington and many nieces and nephews. Funeral Services
will be held on Tuesday, Feb. 13, at 9:00 AM from the Kirby-Rapino Memorial Home, 917
Bennington St EAST BOSTON and then at 10:00 AM in Sacred Heart Church, Brook St., East
Boston. Visiting hours will be Monday from 4-8 PM at the Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers,
memorial contributions may be made in memory of Mr. Gibbons to the American Cancer
Society, 30 Speen Street, Framingham, MA 01701. Kirby-Rapino Memorial Home
617-569-0305. Published in the Boston Globe on 2/11/2007. View /
Sign Guest Book |
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| Giasolli, Mero left this world suddenly on Thursday, November 9, 2006, while on a
visit to El Paso, Texas. He was born May 22, 1937, in Chicago. Mero was a rocket scientist
on Kwajalein and elsewhere, but he was also the down-to-earth son of Italian immigrants
and a Purdue University bocce ball champion. Mero loved his Italian heritage and returned
to Italy frequently to visit family. He was active in the Catholic Church and the Knights
of Columbus. Mero was devoted to God and to Rose Marie Giasolli, his childhood sweetheart
and wife of 50 years. He is survived by Rose Marie, their four sons, five grandchildren
and many friends from Chicago to El Paso, Hawaii and Kwajalein. Mero and Rose Marie had
lived in Hawaii since 1992 because they wanted to return to island living after spending 8
years on Kwaj and 20 years in El Paso. Mero retired from First Hawaiian Bank in 2006 to
spend more time with his grandchildren and help family members with their business
ventures. Memories and photos of Mero and the Giasolli family are posted online. Go to www.mem.com and enter the last name
Giasolli. |
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| Hirst, Marjorie Rose otherwise known as "The Story Book Lady" while living on Kwajalein
in the Marshall Islands, passed away on March 3, 2006. Marjorie was born in Croydon,
Surrey, in England. She grew up during the second World War and at 18 joined The
Women’s Auxiliary Territorial Service and was an anti-Aircraft Gunner, otherwise
known as an Ack Ack girl. After the war she entered a teacher training college and
became a teacher. She received a Fullbright scholarship to be an exchange teacher in
the United States and moved to California. She met her late husband Danny who was an
Officer in the Navy and they traveled around the world. They lived in Iran, Turkey,
England, Kwajalein, Marshall Islands from 1965-1973, Germany and Yuma, Arizona.
After Danny’s passing she moved to Arroyo Grande, California. Marjorie was a
fabulous artist and accomplished opera singer. She was involved in the Kwajalein
Community Theatre and Community Theatres in Germany and was a co-founder of the Yuma
Community Theatre group. She was involved in many community activities and the
Episcopal Choir in Yuma, AZ for 20 years. She died peacefully at home after battling
2 major strokes in the past 2 years. Her daughter and granddaughters were at her
side as she went home to be with the Lord and family. She is survived by her
daughter Sandra (Hirst) Rasmussen of Grover Beach, California and granddaughters Jessica
Elliott and Dana Lee Rasmussen, grandson, Aidan Dean Fitzpatrick and sister Bobby Pounder
of England. She was proceeded in death by husband Daniel Lee Hirst, son Glen
William, daughters Robin Gayle and Danela Rose. She will truly be missed by all as
she had the most gentle spirit and touched every ones hearts that she knew. For
those that want more information, they can email Sandie (Hirst) Rasmussen at Kwajsandie@aol.com. |
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| Johnson , Edward "Ed" Claude died February 16, 2006, 47, of Soddy-Daisy, Tenn., passed away
Thursday. He was a veteran of the U.S. Navy where he served on the USS Constitution. After
serving in the Navy, he was the director of security at Kwajalein Missile Range. In the
most recent years, he had been employed by Bi-Lo. His mother, Carolyn Johnson, preceded
him in death. Survivors include his wife, Kathryn Fortune; son, Patrick Johnson; Aunt Buzz
and Aunt Mag; Uncle Henry; and cousins that were like brothers and sisters, Susan Gatlin,
William Roberts, Patricia Bahr and Douglas Roberts. The family will receive friends from 2
to 4 p.m. Sunday at Williamson and Sons Funeral Home in Soddy-Daisy. In lieu of flowers,
please make donations to your favorite charity or to the Humane Society. |
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| Larsen, Lew Dear Friends; Regret to inform you that Lew Larsen has died. I
received a letter from his brother (John) telling me that Lew died 7 April 2005. He
was buried at Oakland, CA, 11 April 2005. The delay in informing me of Lew's death
was that John did not know my address until they received a Christmas card that I
sent. I worked with and for Lew over a 10 year period. He was one of the good
ones I never remember hearing him bad-mouth anyone. I considered him a good
friends Regards, Hollis Crowe |
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| Sholar, Yvonne Yvonne Kessler
Sholar, 68, died peacefully at home in Huntington Beach, CA on July 24 after a year long
battle with cancer. At her bedside were husband Stan, daughter Laura Roberts, and
son Dan as she transitioned to a new life with her Lord and Savior. She was born of
Elsie and Harry Kessler in St. Louis, MO, on October 10, 1936. She lived a full and
productive life, raising four children in a nurturing and loving family. As a wife
she was unparalleled in raising and taking care of her family in Germany, NC, NY, CA and
for 7 years on Kwajalein in the Marshall Islands. Yvonne will be greatly missed by
her family and friends, as she showed a deep love for all. Her presence shone with a
light that reflected the beauty of her soul and brought comfort and joy to all who knew
her. She enjoyed many things in God's creation, people, nature, travel, cooking,
music, family and worship. She attended Calvary Chapel Costa Mesa and was
particularly blessed on a trip to Israel. Yvonne is survived by her husband Stan of
50 years of marriage, daughter Laura Roberts of Huntington Beach, son Bob and wife Jane of
Kwajalein, and son Dan of Huntington Beach, and was preceded in death by son Mark. She has
four grandchildren, Natalie Roberts Fleck of San Diego, and the children of Bob and Jane
Sholar, John, David and Julia of Kwajalein. She is also survived by her sister Norma
Hance of St. Louis and was preceded in death by brothers Robert and Harry. Viewing
will be at Westminster Mortuary, 14801 Beach Blvd. in Westminster, on Thursday July 28
from 5 to 8 pm. A celebration of her life will be held at Calvary Chapel Costa Mesa,
3800 S. Fairview Rd., Santa Ana, on Friday, July 29 at 2 pm. A private graveside
service will follow at Westminster Memorial Park. |
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| Beckley, Alden W. Saturday, September 17, Alden W Beckley, 78 of Stockbridge
died Friday, September 16 2005. A Celebration of Life will be held for family and friends
at Eagle's Landing Country Club, Stockbridge, GA on Tuesday, September 20 from 4-7 pm. Al
is survived by his wife Norma of Stockbridge; daughter Peggy of Lake Oconee, GA; son and
daughter-in-law Mark and Kathy Beckley of Polson, MT; son and daughter-in-law Jeff Beckley
and Scarlett Scholte of Huntsville, AL; granddaughters Shannon Stanton of Covington, WA
and Meredith Turner of Orting, WA; great granddaughter Kelsie Eagon of Orting, WA; sister
Helen Gottier of Rockville, CT; sister Charlene Hawley of Grants Pass, OR; and brother Bob
Beckley of Fairbury, IL. Al was a great man who lived a great life. Those who were lucky
enough to know him were lucky enough. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be
made to the American Red Cross Hurricane Katrina Relief Fund. Al passed peacefully
at 11:55 PM EST on Friday, 16 September. Thanks to everyone for your support. |
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| O'Neill, Thomas J. (TJ) Kwaj 1977-2005, passed away on August 28, 2005. He was on
Kwajalein from 1989-1992. He is survived by his wonderful and handsome 4 year old son
Jonathan, his most loving and supportive parents Steve and Vickie, his brother Stevie and
his wife Yu-Hsin and his sister Tracey and her husband Chris and their 2 beautiful
children Alexis and Dylan. Please send any correspondence to Stevie at goodsavekeeper@aol.com |
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| Gallaher, John B. (WECO) of Venice, Florida passed away on Tuesday August 16th.
He was on Kwajalein from 1972-74. He served in the US Navy during the Korean War. He
retired in 1995 and moved to Florida from Aurora, Illinioi. He is survived by his wife
Janet, sons, Mark and Keith all of Venice and Kathleen (Terry) Bermes (Bailey),
grandchildren, Meaghan, Brendan, Colin, and great-granddaughter Madeilyn all of
Montgomery, Illinois. No services are planned at this time. The family requests
memorial donations be made to the Suncoast Humane Society, 6781 San Case Dr., Englewood,
Florida 34224. |
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Balser, Carol (Corky) passed away on Saturday, June 25th, at 1:20 in the afternoon in
Melbourne, Florida after a long battle with lung cancer. She leaves behind sons and
daughters-in-law, David and Sandy, and Joseph and Heather; Grandchildren (oldest to
youngest) Chad, Mitchell, Joshua, Kenneth, and Hadley; and Great-Grandchild
Jade."
"Corky was the wife of David (Dave) Balser and enjoyed two tours on Kwajalein. The
first was from 1968 to 1978 and the second was from 1988 to 1996. During that time she was
involved in numerous activities on the island and was known for her willingness to take
people into her home like family. Like all Kwaj families and residents, she sparked
friendships that lasted a lifetime and carried on to her passing." "Corky
and Dave enjoyed the sunsets, the water, the island life, and most of all, the people. A
testament to this was the many former Kwaj residents that were with her through her battle
and at the funeral. People came from far and wide to say good-bye. Needless to say, this
was an inspiration to the family." "Corky and family want to thank all the
friends that supported us through this fight and we appreciate all the was done to dredge
up fond memories of yesteryears to help make her final month and days happy."
"We will all remember those that have given so much to all they encounter along the
pathway of life, and for us it's a wife, mother, and friend known to all as Corky." |
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Ruth "Bunny" Mary
Hadaller, 70, of Nanawale Estates, Pahoa, died Dec.
25 at home. Born in South Boston, Mass., she was a homemaker, member and organist of the
Pahoa Sacred Heart Catholic Church, FCE President and Beta Sigma Phi member. Friends may
call 8-10 a.m. Saturday at the Pahoa Sacred Heart Catholic Church; memorial Mass at 10
a.m. Casual attire. Survived by husband, David L. Hadaller of Pahoa; sons, David (Mirella)
Hadaller Jr. of New York City, James Hadaller of Kalama, Wash.; daughter, Ruth (David)
Blackwell of Wareham, Mass.; brothers, Jack Costello and Thomas Costello, both of Florida,
David Costello of Massachusetts; sisters, Delores Dietrich of New Hampshire, Carol Castle
of Florida, Betty Costello of Arizona; seven grandchildren; numerous nieces and nephews.
Arrangements by Dodo Mortuary. |
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James W. Enking, 60, of Phoenix, Arizona, passed away November 18, 2004. Memorial
services will be Tuesday, November 23, 2004, 4:00 P.M., at A.L. Moore Grimshaw Bethany
Chapel, 710 W. Bethany Home Road, Phoenix, AZ 85013. Contributions may be made to
American Red Cross National Disaster Relief Fund, P.O. Box 97089, Washington D.C.
20090-7089. Arrangements entrusted to A.L. Moore Grimshaw Mortuary. Published in The
Arizona Republic on 11/23/2004.
Jim Enking was the lead tech for the Computer Maintenance shop at Kwajalein during the
1970s. Please take this opportunity to read and sign the Guest
Book in honor of our late friend Jim Enking. |
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Willie
(Eric) Tavares, 42
Willie (Eric) Tavares, 42, of Honolulu, Hawaii, died September 30, 2004, Thursday on Ebeye
of unknown causes. Tavares was a resident of Kwajalein since 1989 and last worked as
a KRS Food Services cook.
According to close family and friends, Willie always gave his 200 percent in everything he
did and above all, every bit of it came from the heart. Said a spokes-person for the
family, "we, his Kwajalein Ohana (family), are saddened by the loss of our brother
but he is now safely in God's palace.. hopefully preparing a big feast in heaven.
Tavares is survived by his wife, Cathy, eight month-old son Kale, daughter Marci,
mother-in-law Sepe Kil, father and mother Chuck and Blossom Bishop, brothers Rex and Kale,
sisters Kuulei and Tina.
A memorial service will be held on Kwajalein pending return of the family from funeral
services in Honolulu. |
William George Eric Tavares
Nov 4, 1961 - Sep 30, 2004
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| Mary Alice Buck, 71, died June 28, 2004 at her home in
Claremont, Calif., after a brief illness. She was born December 24, 1932 in Knoxville,
Tennessee. She spent a lifetime of service to the people of the central Pacific, first as
missionary under the United Church of Christ mission board and later as Bible translator.
She attended Phillips University in Oklahoma and graduated from Northwest Christian
College in Eugene, Oregon. She and her husband lived on Kosrae in the Caroline Islands and
on Kwajalein atoll in the Marshall Islands. They later served churches in Honolulu and
Hilo, Hawaii. She was instrumental in completing new translations of the entire Bible into
the Marshallese and Kosraean languages, under the auspices of the United Bible Societies.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Harold and Mary Ruth Hanlin, and is survived by
her husband, the Rev. Elden M. Buck, her children Lisa Buck Haley (Stephen), Lauren Buck
Medeiros (Michael), Kyle T. Buck (Marites), her brother and sister-in-law John and Carol
Hanlin, her sister Ruth Ann Hanlin, and six grandchildren. A memorial service will
be held at the Claremont United Church of Christ at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, July 3.
Memorial donations may be made to the Alice Buck Memorial Fund of Claremont United Church
of Christ and will be given to support the translation work of the United Bible Societies
in Micronesia. |
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Surilda Hanks dies
October 10, 2004 ST. CLOUD, Fla. - Surilda
Hanks of St. Cloud, Fla., formerly of Missoula, passed away on Oct. 10, 2004, at her home.
Note from Dennis Cresswell, Kwaj 1970-73, denniscresswell@charter.net
Surilda Hanks, who was Surilda Lanier on her last Kwaj tour that ended in 1973, died in
October. She was a key contributor to the Kwajalein Community Theater, which was going
strong in the early 1970s and was offering some first-class musical theater on Kwaj. Her
last performance there was in the role of Aldonza/Dulcinea in "Man of LaMancha,"
which I produced and Alan Kessler directed.
The attached obituary below is from the paper in Missoula, where she used to live, and it
also appeared in the Orlando area, where she lived for about the last 15 years.
I think it's pretty good of her - taken while she was relaxing during a rehearsal for Man
of LaMancha on Kwajalein. Fortunately this wasn't a dress rehearsal, so this is the
real Surilda. Dennis Cresswell
She was born on Aug. 1, 1934, in Johnson County, Ill.
After living in Michigan for several years she returned to southern Illinois and completed
her education in the Johnson County public school system where she graduated from Vienna
High School in 1951. |
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| After high school she attended Southern
Illinois University in Carbondale where she graduated in 1955 with a bachelor of arts
degree with a major in theater arts. Subsequently she moved to Elgin, Ill., where she
worked in various positions in the medical and dental professions. During this time
she was active in the local community theater and was the lead in several stage
productions. She was the recipient of several awards for her role as Sabrina in
"Sabrina Fair." From Elgin she moved to Venice, Fla., where she married and
moved with her husband, an aeronautical engineer, to various locations in Maryland,
Alabama, Texas and the Marshall Islands in the South Pacific. It was in the Marshall
Islands that she founded the local community theater, which is still active. Along
the way she became a licensed realtor in Alabama and Texas. In 1974, she moved to Walnut
Creek, Calif., to accept a position with Sears Contract Sales, later transferring to the
Allstate Insurance Co. In 1978, she transferred to Missoula, with Allstate. During her
tenure with Allstate she earned the Allstate Honor Ring with four diamonds. In 1971,
she moved to Kissimmee, Fla., and worked in hospitality sales for the Days Suites in
Kissimmee and the Sheraton Lakeside Hotel. Surilda was preceded in death by her father
Winfield Hundley; her mother Wanda Hundley; and her brother, W. Dion "Deac"
Hundley. She is survived by two daughters, Robin Bowers of Lafayette, Calif., and
Laura Henes of Orlando, Fla.; a son, Marshall Lanier of Birmingham, Ala.; four
granddaughters, Lauren, Kristen and Kimberley Bowers of Lafayette and Cassondra Harris of
San Leandro, Calif.; one grandson, Nicholas Lanier of Orlando; a great granddaughter,
Cheyenne Harris of San Leandro; a sister, Shirley Hundley of Richmond, Ken.; two brothers,
Monty Hundley of Windermere, Fla., and Charles Hundley of Kissimmee. A private
memorial service for close friends and family has been held. The family asks that
donations in the name of Surilda (Hundley) Hanks be made to the Vienna High School
Madrigal Club, in care of Vienna High School, 601 N. First St., Vienna, IL 62995. |
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| John S. Beavers April 11, 1926 -
Feb. 3, 2004 John S. Beavers passed away
peacefully at home Tuesday after a long illness. He was 77. He was born and raised
in southeastern Oklahoma, John was the third child and only son of Lece and Johnny
Beavers. He was drafted into the Army from H.S. in 1944 and served in the mounted military
police in W.W.II, patrolling the Burma Rd. in China-Burma-India theater. After the war he
enrolled in college but left to sail with the US Merchant Marine in the South
Pacific-China area. when the Korean Conflict began, John re-enlisted in the Army and
served for the duration before returning to college. Upon graduation from the
University of CA at Santa Barbara, John embarked on a long career in government service.
His first assignment was the Pacific Missile Range at Pt. Magu, CA. He also served at the
Pacific Missile Range, Kanoehe, HI. He came to Huntsville in 1964 with the Ballistic
Missile Defense Organization and served three tours at Kwajalein Missile Range as liaison
to the Marshall Islands Government. John is survived by his wife of 53 years,
Virginia, three sons, John L. (Sheryl) of Oklahoma City, OK, William (Dayna) of
Earlington, KY and Matthew of Huntsville; two grandchildren, Zachary and Katie of
Earlington, KY: And a sister Maxine Hill of Oklahoma City, OK. In lieu of flowers,
memorial contributions made be made to the Building Fund of Valley United Methodist Church
(1410 Drake Av., Huntsville, AL 35801). |
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| In Memory of Thomas Joseph
Barclay Jr. Thomas Joseph Barclay Jr. was born on
September 29,1928 in Mobile, Alabama. His parents were Thelma Stone Barclay and Thomas
Joseph Barclay Sr. He was the second child of seven. It was there in Mobile, where he grew
up and met Elizabeth (Bettye) Louise Buntyn at a high school dance. In 1947, Tom joined
the United States Navy and was stationed in Port Hueneme, California. In 1950 he called
for Bettye to come to California and they were married on August 12,1950 in Grassy Valley.
They had 5 children: Mary Christine, Brenda Marian, Thomas Joseph III, Lisa Marie and
Beverly Miriam. All of his adult life, Tom, was in the aerospace industry. While working
on the X-15 project, he spoke with Neal Armstrong in space and Bettye also danced with
Neal. In 1978 he was transferred to Kwajalein with Bettye and their two youngest
children; Lisa 17 and Beverly 13. Tom worked for Kentron International under Don
Mitchell and also for Global Associates operating the Television Repair Shop. Tom
supervised the operations of the Calibration Lab, Timing Center and the Frequency
Standards Lab and monitoring van. While on Kwaj he was a member of the Toastmasters
Club and started a Commodore Computer Club. Bettye founded the Beta Sigma Phi sorority
there. Besides computers and television repairs, some of his hobbies were snorkeling,
riding his bike and taking long walks. Some of his closest friends were Nadine and Russ
Olsen; the Sabistons; the Hatchers; B. H. Jordan; Leo and Shirley Langford and Bill
Chamberlain. The helicopter pilot that always flew so close to the coconut tree's
the blades on the helicopter were green.) and of course Shermie. He retired in 1988
and returned home to Savannah, Ga. He enjoyed remodeling his home and traveling to see
friends and family until 1991 when he had a stroke which left him paralyzed on his left
side preventing him from doing the things he loved. But he tried to make the best of the
situation. During the year 2001 he was hospitalized many times with congestive heart
failure, and suffered another major heart attack, his first was in his 30's, yet he always
managed to rally back to us. In November 2001, he was hospitalized 3 times with congestive
heart failure, on his last trip he stabilized quickly and we all thought he would once
again rally back to us. A few days later, on November 30, 2001 around 5:30 pm he quietly
slipped away, with Brenda and Tom III by his side. He was buried on December 4, 2001 in
the Greenwich section of Bonaventure Cemetery, in Savannah, Ga. With a beautiful view
overlooking the Savannah River. He is at peace now with the Lord looking over all of
his loved ones, no longer in pain and able to walk again. Bettye was fortunate to have him
as a husband, life partner, and friend. We his children were fortunate to have him as a
father, great provider, and loving "daddy" who set forth a great example for all
of us to live by. He touched everyone he knew in one way or another. We, his family and
friends miss and love him dearly. He truly was a great man. "In Memory of Thomas Joseph Barclay Jr." was provided
by Beverly Britton, their youngest daughter. |
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Tom and Bettye Barclay
Former Kwaj residents - 1985 |
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In Memory Father Leonard
Hacker
Father Hacker dedicated 50 years of his life as a Jesuit priest.
Hacker 89, died May 31, 2003, while living at Jesuit nursing home at Fordham University,
NY. He was a builder, an educator, a translator... and a musician," said Father
William Sullivan, S.J. A memorial service is tentatively set at Ebeye's Queen of
Peace church, June 30. In 1952 propeller planes brought Hacker to Majuro and cargo
boats arriving no sooner than every six months was the rule. Hacker's connection
with the Pacific started 11 years before he landed on Majuro when, as a young seminarian,
he was assigned to the Philippines. Conditions in the Manila turned ugly when
Hacker, along with other Americans, was imprisoned by the Japanese when the U.S. entered
World War II. From 1952 to 1978 Father Hacker built schools, church, rectory and
convent and the same institutions on Ebeye from 1978 to 1992. Father Hacker idea of
keeping the kids off the street was to simply teach them a musical instrument and have
them march in a band, which is no small thing, refer to Father Hacker's school band picture, taken at one of the Kwaj
Carnivals in the late 70's. After the Ebeye memorial, Hacker's ashes will travel to
Majuro for a July 3 memorial ceremony at the Assumption Cathedral which he built.
The plan is to inter the ashes in the cathedral in some kind of protected view area.Your footprints will remain on the sands
of
time in the Marshall Islands for an eternity |
Father Leonard Hacker
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