Firefighter Deaths for previous years are in the News Archives
Air Force Honoring Fallen Firefighters Guide
Firefighter Deaths for previous years are in the News Archives
Air
Force Honoring Fallen Firefighters Guide
Download Amazing Grace
(Bagpipes) by the Band of the Air Force Reserve Command
(my favorite rendition)
Wiley J. McLeod 1936 - 2008 Wiley J. McLeod, age 72, of Crestview, Fla., passed away Sunday, July 27, 2008.
He was born on Jan. 7, 1936, in Enterprise, Ala., and moved to Crestview in 1974. He was a retired master sergeant with the U.S. Air Force after 22 years of service, then he worked with the Crestview Fire Department before he began his career with civil service and retired at Duke Field. Mr. McLeod was a member of New Beginnings Church.
Survivors include his wife of 49 years, Marion McLeod of Crestview; one son, Kyle and Susan McLeod of Mary Esther, Fla.; one daughter, Lawanna McLeod of Crestview; two stepchildren, Roxanne Davis of Hunlock Creek, Pa., and Scott Garinger of Navarre, Fla.; one sister; five grandchildren, Matthew and Kristin Waggy of Charleston, S.C., Aaron Waggy of Crestview, Alex Bannister, Kirk McLeod, both of Mary Esther, and Lynzie Garinger of San Diego; and several nieces and nephews.
The Fire Service has a whole in it today. It is with great sadness that Iinform you of the passing of Retired SMSgt Gary Studer. Gary was not only a Retired Fire Chief from the 180th but even in his retirement continued to donate time to the 180th giving us EMS C.E.'s and teaching Air Craft Emergency Response among other things in North West Ohio. Below is a copy of his obituary. Please pass on to the ANG Fire Community.
Gary L. Studer, age 61, died in the arms of his wife at St. Luke's Hospital on Saturday, June 28, 2008 at 11:09 am. Gary suffered a massive stroke while proudly serving his community at Life Squad 9 eight days prior to his death. He was born March 15, 1947; his parents Robert L. Studer and Donna M. (Jennings) Studer preceded him in death. His in-laws Donald M. and Louise E. (LaJoie) Brahier, brother-in-law Lynn Brahier, and Sister-in-law Donna (Brahier) Bishop also preceded him.
At the time of his death, he was a Firefighter/Paramedic with Life Squad 9 (since 1979), a 30 year member of Whitehouse Fire Department obtaining the rank of Captain, Chairman of the Lucas County Local Emergency Planning Committee, a member of the Ohio Society of Fire Service Instructors and the Ohio Fire Chiefs' Association and a lifetime FFA Alumni. Gary taught basic and advanced firefighting, first aide, and CPR to numerous individuals and Ohio Turnpike employees. Gary was a scuba rescue diver and instructor. He recently petitioned to be a member of the Masons. He was a graduate of Anthony Wayne High School (class of 1965) and obtained an Associates Degree in Fire Science and Safety at Owens Technical College. He was a teacher, mentor, and friend to all.
Prior to becoming a Paramedic, Gary worked for Toledo Edison for over 24 years and was in the military for over 23 years, first in the Army and Army Reserves and retired as Sr. Master Sergeant and Fire Chief of the 180th Ohio Air National Guard. He was Commander of the American Legion Post #384 Honor Guard. Prior to moving back to his hometown of Whitehouse, he was a Swanton Township Zoning Inspector for several years. Gary was a member of the Maumee Valley T's (Ford Model T Club), the Whitehouse A's (Ford Model A Club), and the National Thresher's Association.
His hobbies included restoring tractors and working on his antique automobiles. He loved all animals.
Survivors include his wife of 29 years, Jeanette; his sister Marlene (Jim) Hollstein; his brother, Randy Studer, and his niece Leah Hollstein. He also included as his relatives his wife's family: brothers-in-law Richard T. (Anita) Brahier, James R. (Brenda) Brahier; Sister-in-law Carolyn Brahier; nephews Greg, Bryan, and Ken Bishop; Tim, Nate, and Eric Brahier; niece Kristen Brahier; and step-nephew Stefan Scott. He had many, many personal friends too numerous to mention. Gary will be missed but never forgotten.
the other side.
Captain Gary L. Studer answered his last alarm.
Lieutenant Larry Faccio
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Fort Huachuca Fire Department, AZ sadly announces the loss of our Fallen Brother, Lieutenant Larry Faccio. Larry passed suddenly on April 27, 2008 due to injuries sustained in a motorcycle accident while off duty. Lt. Faccio was an absolute joy to work with throughout his entire 13 years served with us. He was an outstanding firefighter, loved his job and would always make certain to light up the room with laughter. He is survived by a wonderful family including two loving children and many friends. We have started a fund with Wells Fargo Bank to help support his children on their difficult task of carrying on their lives without dad. Donations may be deposited at any Wells Fargo branch under the "Larry Faccio Memorial Fund". Thank you so much for all of your kind thoughts and prayers.
We’ll miss you Larry. |
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James P. Hannon, Sr., SMSgt, USAF (Ret) |
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Chief Willie A. Bell, CMSgt, USAF (Retired) |
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Born August 9, 1934, in Quitman, Georgia, Willie Bell passed away April 27, 2008, in Lancaster, California. He was a resident of Lancaster, California. He retired from the Air Force as Chief Master Sergeant, and also retired as Civil Service Fire Chief from Edwards Air Force Base. He is survived by his wife Deloris C. Bell, and a son, Dino R. Bell, daughters Stephenia Mills, Debra Williams, 5 grandchildren, 10 great-grandchildren. Visitation will be held from 10 to 11 a.m., with Funeral Service starting at 11 a.m., Monday, May 5, 2008, at Joshua Memorial Park & Mortuary, Lancaster (661-942-8125). |
You may sign the guest book at http://dignity.mem.com/ViewTextTributes.aspx?ID=2419606 |
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Chief Bobby Frank "Bob" Barrow, CWO-4, USAF (Retired) During the early morning of April 17, 2008, Bob Barrow, age 77, passed away at West Florida Regional Medical Center in Pensacola, Fla. Bob was born Aug. 9, 1930, to Henry Franklin Barrow and Girtherl Elizabeth Barrow in Mayodan, N.C. Bob loved life and believed nothing was more important than family and friends. Bob is survived by his loving wife of 53 years, Nancy Carol Barrow; son, William Frank Barrow; daughters, Ginger Lee Dahlquist, Barbie Carol Barrow, Bobi Gail Barrow, Brenda Lynn Bernt; son-in-law, Kent Lee Dahlquist, Andreas Bernt; grandchildren, Erika Dahlquist, Robin Dahlquist, Bobby Dahlquist, Brandy Bernt, Nikolaus Bernt, Trista Barrow; sister-in-law, Polly Higgins; brother-in-law, Jimmy Clapp, Jerry Higgins; niece, Abby Higgins; and nephew, Donald Higgins. |
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In addition, Bob loved everyone he ever met, especially firefighters and
members of the military. He always found the time to stop and talk to anyone
and never met a stranger he didn't like. Bob has so many friends and best
friends throughout the United States and around the world, too numerous to
mention here, but know that he thought about you up and until the end of his
life and he is still looking over us now. Bob grew up in Severn, Md., where he first became a volunteer firefighter and fell in love with the fire service. He became a civilian firefighter with the U.S. Army at Fort George G. Meade, Md., in 1950. In November 1951, Bob joined the United States Air Force and completed basic training at Sampson Air Force Base, N.Y., in January 1952. He participated in the Korean War Campaign at K-10 with the 75th Air Wing. Bob remained in the USAF Reserves after the Korean War and was promoted to warrant officer junior grade as a crash rescue officer in 1958. "Mister" Barrow was stationed at Andrews AFB, Kelly AFB, Pope AFB, Eglin AFB, Hurlburt Field and Tyndall AFB. He was an active participant in the Cold War, Berlin Crisis, Cuban Crisis, Grenada Crisis and Operation Desert Storm. As a civilian firefighter, Bob was the fire chief at Fort Lee, Va.; Pope AFB, N.C.; and Eglin AFB, Fla., before retiring as fire chief of Eglin AFB (1984) and as the last chief warrant officer-4 in the Air Force (1992). Bob touched the lives and careers of many public servants and laypersons, and remained active after retirement. In 2002, he assumed the duties as editor of the Retired Air Force Fire Chiefs' Quarterly Network Newsletter. Bob was a lifetime member of the Disabled American Veterans (DAV); past president of the North Carolina Fire Service Instructors Association, a member of the International Association of Fire Chiefs; and the Eglin-Hurlburt Firefighters' Group. Flower arrangements are accepted at the Emerald Coast Funeral Home. Donations may be made to the DAV or the American National Kidney Foundation. A time of visitation will be from 6 to 8 p.m. Friday, April 25, at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints on Lake Drive in Fort Walton Beach. A second visitation will be from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., Saturday, April 26, at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Fort Walton Beach. The funeral service will follow at 1 p.m. in the Chapel with Bishop Robert Moriarty presiding and interment will be in the Beal Memorial Cemetery, immediately following the services. Pall bearers will be members of the surrounding area Firefighters' Honor Guard and members of the United States Air Force Honor Guard. You may express condolences at www.emeraldcoastfuneralhome.com. Published in the Northwest Florida Daily News from 4/19/2008 - 4/21/2008. See pictures of the Chief's last ride! |
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It is my sad duty to announce that Chief Jerry O'Neil was killed in an
automobile accident on 29 Mar 08. Jerry was the Fire Chief at McChord from
1984-1989. Please keep Jerry's family and friends in your thoughts and
prayers during this very difficult time. Please honor Chief O'Neil be conducting a Moment of Silence at shift change on 3 April 2008. Thank you,
DONALD WARNER, YN-03, DAF |
Chief Frank R. Cox
On 22 Feb 2008, 1130hr private interment ceremonies at Punchbowl National Cemetery in Honolulu, Hawaii, with full military honors were conducted for retired Fire Chief Frank R. Cox. Chief Cox suffered a brain aneurysm on 28 Jan 1998 while on a business trip in Okinawa. His wonderful wife Tina continues to reside in their beautiful home in West Palm Beach, Florida. Chief Cox like many of our senior firefighter icons helped blaze the trail to professionalized in the AF Fire Service. It is now our tasking to pave that trail into a super highway. See Pictures of the interment.
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Chief Larry Hopkins Larry L. Hopkins, age 70, of 8030 Summit Dr.
died Sunday, February 24, 2008 at his residence. Born in Columbia, N.C.,
he was the son of the late Grady L. & Evelyn Spruill Hopkins. Larry was a
firefighter with the U.S. Air Force for 22 years and then served another
17 years with the Civil Service. He was a member of the N.C.
Firemen’s Association. A member of the Soundside Missionary Baptist Church
in Columbia, N.C., Larry attended Love Memorial Baptist Church in
Goldsboro. He was an avid outdoorsman and a member of the Stuck In
The Pines Hunting Club.
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Chief Hamp Cayson, SMSgt, USAF (Retired)
April 28, 1931 to February 25, 2008
It is my sad duty to report the death of Chief Hamp Cayson and designate the appropriate honors in his memory. Chief Cayson was a Charter Member of the United States Air Force coming into the Air Force from the Army Air Corp in 1947. Chief Cayson passed away on 25 Feb 08 of natural causes. Hamp is well known for his contributions and leadership at HQ Air Mobility Command, culminating in his retirement as the Command Fire Chief.
Please provide honors in memory of Chief Cayson on 28 Feb 08 as follows:
Conduct a full Moment of Silence and Last Alarm Ceremony at roll call/shift change on 28 Feb 08
o Begin the ceremony with five short rings of a ceremonial bell or firehouse dispatch bell/signal
o Follow with a moment of silence (30 seconds)
o Conclude with the same five rings.
Fly the fire service flag (if available) at half staff for 30 days beginning on the 25 Feb 08.
Firefighters wear a black band on the Fire Protection Badge through 1 Mar 08.
If you want to share pictures of ceremonies or send your condolences, please forward them to me and I'll make sure they are passed to the family. Please keep Hamp's family and friends in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.
Funeral will be private for the family only.
Link to his obituary and guest book
 SMSgt Mrowinski accepts award from Lt. Col. O’Neil |
RICHARD J. MROWINSKI, SMSgt, USAF (Retired) Milwaukee, Wi. Richard J. Mrowinski, retired from the Air Force in 1963. He was assigned at Chaumont Air Base from 1962 – 1963 as Base Fire Chief. He passed away Saturday, January 26, 2007 at a nursing facility in Milwaukee. Richard had open heart surgery in June. According to his sister, Irene, he never regained enough strength to care for himself at home. He was 87 years old. Irene said that Richard passed away peacefully in his sleep.
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HERBERT "LEFTY" LEFKOWITZ
February 13, 1927 - January 29, 2008
Herbert "Lefty" Lefkowitz, 80, of Rantoul passed away at 9 a.m. Tuesday (January 29, 2008) at Heartland Healthcare Center, Paxton IL. Link to his obituary and guest book. Lefty was a Fire School instructor at Chanute AFB IL for many years.
To: Fellow Brothers, Sisters, Families and Friends
From: Camp Pendleton Firefighters
We are very saddened to announce the loss of one of our beloved Captain Glen Gibbons. He passed on October 21, 2007. He is survived by his mother Wilma Gibbons, wife Patricia Gibbons, daughter Samantha and her husband Alika Polanco. The services to celebrate Glen’s life was held on November 6, 2007.
To help his family during this time of need please donate to:
The Glen Gibbons Family Trust
North Island Credit Union
Bank P.O.C. - Rebecca (619)591-7643
7176 Avenida Encinas
Carlsbad, Ca. 92001
Any questions call:
Bill Gick 760-390-2676
Tiffani Pearson 760-500-5002
Chief Robert “Bob” L. Smith
November 1, 2007
Chief Smith, former Fire Chief at Norton Air Force Base, San Bernardino CA died on Thursday November 1, 2007 during an emergency cardiac surgery. On Monday October 30th he experienced a heart attack and had an emergency cauterization and shunt placed in his arteries. Bob lead an active life and was a retired SMSgt. He was Fire Chief at several locations in his military tours at RAF Welford GBR, Wiesbaden AB DEU and Beale AFB, CA. He was appointed GS -12 Fire Chief of Norton AFB CA in 1974 and remained as their Chief until the base closed in 1999. Funeral arrangement is not known for now.
Captain Glen Gibbons
Captain Glen Gibbons passed on October 21, 2007.
He
was a firefighter at Camp Pendleton for nearly 20 years. He served as a
firefighter, then a Rescue officer, then as Captain at Station. 6. He will be
missed by his brothers and sisters and we offer our condolences to his family on
their loss. He is survived by his mother Wilma Gibbons, wife
Patricia Gibbons, daughter Samantha and her husband Alika Polanco. The services
to celebrate Glen’s life will be held on November 6, 2007. Please make
arrangements to join us.
North Coast Calvary Chapel
7188 Avenida Encinas
Carlsbad, Ca.
Directions:
Exit Poinsettia off the I-5 and
head west.
Go South on
Avenida Encinas
3rd
Driveway on the left is Loganberry Dr.
Parking
available in front and rear of Chapel
Doors are to open at 1200hrs and the memorial will begin at 1230hrs.
Reception to follow on site.
To help his family during this time of need please donate to:
The Glen Gibbons Family Trust
North Island Credit Union
Bank P.O.C. - Rebecca (619)591-7643
7176 Avenida Encinas
Carlsbad, Ca. 92001
Mark Alan Reeves, 47, of Biloxi, MS, died Wednesday, May 30, 2007 at his residence. He was born in Greenville, South Carolina, on February 25, 1960. He is the son of the late Donnie Joe Reeves and Fay Turnage Reeves. He was of the Pentecostal Faith, he served in the Air National Guard and worked as assistant fire chief at Dobbins Air Force Base in Marietta, Georgia. He later transferred to McConnell Air Force Base in Wichita, Kansas where he worked as Deputy Fire Chief of Operations until his retirement. After retirement he returned home to Gulfport and worked for Paragon Systems at Stennis Space Center where he served as Training and Safety Officer of Security. Mark enjoyed fishing, cooking, golfing and spending time with his family. Mark was a loving son, father, brother, uncle, nephew and friend. His greatest joy was having his family gathered around at his home. He would fire up the grill for any reason he could think of to have cookouts and spend time with the ones he loved. He loved to roast marshmallows in his fireplace with his nephews and niece even during the warmest months of the year. He provided his own fireworks display and loved having his Christmas tree displayed year round. His joy of life was being with the ones he loved. He will be sadly missed but fondly remembered. He is survived by his loving mother, Fay Turnage Reeves of Gulfport. His sons Stephen Reeves of Biloxi and David Reeves of Rome, Georgia. Two Sisters and brother-in-laws, Suzanne and Scott Miller of Gulfport and Joanna and Destry Roberts of Biloxi. Niece Emily Miller. Nephews Andrew Miller, Jacob Roberts and Jackson Roberts. |
Chief Phillip B. Breyer
May 27, 1924 - October 21, 2007
Phillip B. Breyer, 83, died October 21, 2007 in Las Cruces, New Mexico. Her was born May 27, 1924 in Fargo, ND, the son of John and Lillian Breyer. He attended Fargo Central High School. He served in the U.S. Navy during World War II. After his service, he came back to Fargo and joined the Fargo Fire Department. He lived in different cities before moving to Duluth, MN where he retired as Fire Chief at the Air Force Base.
Phillip and Mary Hoggarth were married December 10, 1946. They later divorced. Phillip is survived by his daughter, Judith Ferguson, Ham Lake, MN; 5 grandchildren, Gary Lee, Darren (Laurie) Tollakson, Christina Murray, Annette (Orvis) Anhorn, and Lisa Breyer; 2 great granddaughters, Phoebe and Sophie Tallikson; and 1 great grandson, Damon Breyer. He is also survived by his brother, Joseph (Gloria) Breyer, Anchorage, AK; and his sisterin-law Marilyn Breyer, Rochert, MN.
He was preceded in death by his parents, 2 children, Laura and Bruce, and 2 brothers, Arthur and Albert.
Online guestbook www.boulgerfuneralhome.com
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8/20/2007 - MARCH AIR RESERVE BASE, CALIF. -- A
firefighter from March Air Reserve Base' s 452nd Fire Emergency Services was
killed Saturday morning in an off-base motorcycle accident. Air Force Reserve Staff Sgt. Ricardo Villalobos, 28, was a native of Escondido, Calif., and had been assigned to the 452nd FES for over four years. "He was one of my best firefighters," said Eliot M. Cooper, the Assistant Fire Chief for the 452nd FES. "He would walk into the room with a presence. People knew he was there. He didn't ask for that presence, it was just with him." |
| Family and friends gathered Sunday morning at
the base flag pole to honor Sergeant Villalobos in a Ringing of the Bell
ceremony, a fallen fire fighter tradition.
"The ringing of the bell symbolizes the fire fighter coming home for the last time," said Jeff Konersman, the Fire Chief for the 452nd FES. "We did the ceremony specifically for him this morning, but one will also be done at his funeral." Sergeant Villalobos was assigned to the March fire department's rescue truck. As a rescue man, he was the first to respond in emergency situations. "It's a specialized job to be a rescue man," said Chris Christianson, a fire engineer with the 452nd FES. "When you fight a fire, the rescue crew goes in to search the building for victims. As a fire fighter, the rescue truck is the top tier that you can be on." Sergeant Villalobos' death greatly impacts everybody at the fire department, said Fire Chief Konersman. Because today was to be Sergeant Villalobos' first day back to work, the base flag was lowered to half staff to honor the fallen fire fighter. "Ricardo was a solid, courageous and responsible to all who knew him," said Assistant Fire Chief Cooper. "He will be missed and I will be hard pressed to fill his position with another person of his abilities and presence." |
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Chief Randy Frederic Schryer
September 18, 1956 to August 8, 2007
Randy Frederic Schryer 50, passed away suddenly at his home in Tucson, AZ on August 8, 2007. He is survived by his wife of 30 years, Julieta Schryer and their two children Randy L. Schryer and Abigail Schryer, a nephew Jesus Leon, his parents Bernard and Joyce Schryer and two sisters Brenda Martin and Lisa McDonough of Ticonderoga, NY and his wife's family of Hermosillo, Sonora and several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his sister Bernadette Mosier on September 6, 2007. Randy was born on September 18, 1956 in Ticonderoga, NY. He graduated from Ticonderoga High School in 1974. Following graduation, he joined the United States Air Force where he served his country for eight years. After leaving the Air Force he worked at Davis Monthan Air Force Base in Tucson, AZ where he advanced through the ranks of the fire department, retiring after 32 years of service as Fire Chief on June 1, 2007. Randy will be remembered by his family and friends as a dedicated husband and father, for his sense of humor, his spaghetti, being a great listener and always willing to lend a hand. He will sadly be missed and loved by all. A Mass will be held on Tuesday, August 14, 2007 at St. Joseph's Catholic Catholic Church, 215 S. Craycroft, Tucson, AZ at 10:00 a.m.
Assistant Chief Donald Arnold
July 22, 1932 to June 13, 2007
Assistant Chief Don Arnold died today at 1400 at the Sturgis VA Hospital at Rapid City SD. Chief Arnold had been around for a long time, from the far east to Europe and other stateside bases. For the old timers that remember the incident regarding the B-52 into the POL area at Ellsworh AFB SD, he was in the middle of it. He was also an assistant fire chief at Norton AFB CA. Go to his obituary and guest book here.
Chief Walter J. McNeil, CMSgt, USAF (Retired)
July 31, 1926 to June 10, 2007
Chief Walter McNeil, 80, passed away at his residence in Panama City, Florida, on Sunday, June 10, 2007. He retired from the Air Force in 1977 with 31 years of military service. He was a Bronze Star recipient and veteran of WW II, and the Korean and Viet Nam wars. He retired again in 1993 with 15 years of civil service. Chief McNeil served as the fire chief at Grand Forks AFB ND from February 1978 to September 1979 then transferred to the Naval Coastal Systems Station in Panama City where he served as fire chief. until he retired. He is survived by his wife of 48 years, Hilda, three sons, eight grandchildren, two great-grandchildren, and two step-granddaughters.
Chief Bob Richardson
Died June 3, 2007
Robert "Bob" Richardson of Ingleside, Texas passed peacefully into the hands of our Lord Savior at the age of 62 on June 3, 2007 after a long battle of cancer. Son of the late Hubert and Nelda Richardson Bob grew up in Ingleside, Texas and graduated from Ingleside High School in 1962.
He has been a member of the Ingleside Volunteer Fire Dept. for over 25 years. He served aboard the USS Oriskany during the Vietnam War from 1964-66. Bob received a bachelor's degree from the University of Texas in Psychology and a Master's degree in Education from Corpus Christi A & M. He was an instructor for the A & M's Fire Training School of College Station and numerous area schools for many years. Bob shared his passion for education with everyone he touched. Bob was employed with H.E.B. Grocery Co. in Portland, Aransas Pass and Austin, Texas for 21 years. He was employed with Navy Station Ingleside since 1991 as Chief Fire Inspector. He was the Fire Marshal and Emergency Manager for the City of Ingleside. He will always be remembered for his love of education and determination for a safe and better world. Bob was a member of the Texas Fire Fighter's Association and Ingleside Dudley Ives VFW. Bob has volunteered aboard the USS Lexington Museum of Corpus Christi, Texas.
Bob was a member of the Ingleside United Methodist Church of Ingleside.
Bob was survived by a loving family including wife, Beverly Richardson, a brother and sister in-law Doug and Brenda Richardson of Ingleside, Texas, son Daniel Richardson of Corpus Christi, daughters: Tina Everett of Flour Bluff, Texas, Rebecca Richardson of California, Bridgette Griffis of Aransas Pass, Texas, Tammy Leur of Rockport, Texas. He had 8 grandsons Christopher and Brandon, Nathan and James Griffis Jr., Hubert Richardson, Trey and William Jones, Cody Leur and 1 granddaughter Megan Leur, 3 caring son in-laws Robert Everett of Flour Bluff, Texas, James Griffis Sr. of Aransas Pass, Texas, Chad Leur of Rockport, Texas.
Services will be held at the Ingleside United Methodist Church in Ingleside, Texas on Saturday June 9 2007. Viewing will be held at Charlie Marshal Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers it was Bob's desire and the family's request that donations be made towards the Deceased Firefighter's Monument and/or to the Ingleside Volunteer Fire Department. His devotion to fire safety and training has shown through his work daily.
This message is intended for emergency responders who know or may have served with Chief Bob Richardson. All 254 counties in the state of Texas probably have at lest one former student of Chief Bob Richardson.
This is the first message for this event. Please accept it may be subject to change and update. If clarification on any point is needed please contact the Funeral Officer.
Please forward this message on to anyone you know who would be interested. Deputy Chief Chad Champion is Acting Chief and the Liaison Officer for the Family. Questions for the Family can be directed to him.
Assistant Chief RJ Thomas is the Funeral Officer. Question about Funeral procession or Fire Department Honors can be directed to him. Firefighter Danielle Hale (Fulton) and Chief Mark Hollowell (Gregory) will be the staging officer for the all apparatus in the procession. The Ingleside Fire Department will be open at 8:00am on Saturday June 9, 2007 to allow visitors from out of time a place change clothes and check in, if arriving before the staging time.
Those who may be flying in from out town and would like transportation to and from the airport in Corpus Christi should contact the Funeral Officer. Regret the fire department doesn't have overnight quarters.
ADDRESS,
Charley Marshall's Funeral Home
2300 West Wheeler
Aransas Pass, TX
Ingleside United Methodist Church
2572 Church St
Ingleside, TX
Ingleside Fire Department
2425 8th Street
Ingleside, TX
POINTS OF CONTACT
Ingleside Fire Department
361-776-7422
361-775-1186 FAX
ivfd@cableone.net
R J Thomas, Funeral Officer
361-523-9447
rj@cbcogem.org
RJ Thomas
Assistant Fire Chief
Ingleside Fire Department
2425 8th Street
Ingleside, TX 78362
361-523-9447 Cell
361-776-7422 Office
361-775-1186 FAX
Chief Hugh A. Pike, CMSgt, USAF (Retired)
July 7, 1941 to April 5, 2007
| We bid farewell to Chief Hugh A. Pike,
CMSgt, USAF (Retired), who died on 5 April 2007 of natural causes after a
short illness. Chief Pike's career spanned more than 40 years of
military and civilian service in every position in the fire protection
organization, from firefighter to the Chief of Air Force Fire Protection. Most firefighters that have been in the Department of Defense for more than four years either know or know of Chief Pike. As the Father of the DoD Fire & Emergency Services Certification System, he impacted the lives of all DoD firefighters, past, present and future. Yet, this was but one example of the positive difference he made to Air Force Fire Protection. Those that have had personal contact with the Chief can testify to his no nonsense persona. But if you didn't know him well, you may have missed his passion for the well being of firefighters and the training that must prepare them for their dangerous job. He excelled at correcting you if you messed up but would support you to the end if you were right. He adamantly upheld one of the most sacred traditions of a military leader - run interference for your troops! There was no better person to have on your side. Because of his many contributions to Air Force and DoD Fire and Emergency Services, Chief Pike will be honored throughout the Air Force as follows: EFFECTIVE IMMEDIATELY: - FIRE SERVICE flags will be lowered to half staff at every AF fire station for 30 days following his death (through 5 May 07). - Firefighters will wear a black band on the firefighter badge until his interment (noon central daylight time, 10 Apr 07). 10 APR 07: - A Moment of Silence and a Last Alarm Ceremony will be conducted in every fire station in the Air Force. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ In lieu of flowers the family asks that you make a donation on his behalf to the Alpha School FFA, P.O. Box 67, Alpha FL 32421. Please include a note letting them know that your donation is being made to the Alpha School Future Farmers of America in Memory of Mr. Hugh Pike. VIEWING: His viewing will be Monday (9 Apr 07) from 4 to 6 pm at Hall's Funeral Home in Alpha FL. 15205 Northwest County Road 274, Alpha FL 32421. The phone number is 850-762-3965. FUNERAL: A graveside funeral service will take place on Tuesday (10 Apr 07) at 1000 am on his farm in Fountain FL. The address for the graveside funeral is 1035 Northwest Barksdale Lane, Fountain FL 32438. UPDATE - 10 Apr 07
I attended Hugh's graveside funeral this morning in Fountain FL. He was sent
off in appropriate style and with honors that included bagpipes, bugler,
fallen firefighter ceremony, 21 gun salute, and honor guards (military and
firefighter). Hugh's family was very pleased with the turnout of many of his friends
and associates from the fire community. At his request, he was the first to
be interred in a new family cemetery on his ranch.
-dww |
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2 Apr 07
With deep sorrow, I announce the passing of Assistant Chief Gerome Shanklin. Gerome was the Assistant Chief of Fire Prevention at Selfridge ANG Base MI, and had been with the department for 23 years. He served in civil service for 26 years and prior to that served in United States Marine Corps. Gerome will be deeply missed by all of our family. Funeral arrangements will be posed as soon as they become available.
21 Dec 06
We are saddened to pass along the news concerning the death of Assistant Fire Chief Norman Blankenship on 13 Dec 06, of the Commander Naval Forces Japan Regional Fire & Emergency Services.
Prevention Chief Norman Blankenship suffered a massive stroke on Thursday night (7 Dec 06) on the way to a command function. He was admitted to a Japanese hospital just outside of Yokosuka Naval base. The doctors have confirmed that the stroke has resulted in major brain damage. He underwent emergency surgery Friday afternoon to remove part of the skull in an effort to relieve pressure from the brain.
Chief Blankenship's death is a loss to his family and friends, and the entire Navy Fire & Emergency Services Community. On behalf of Navy firefighters world-wide, please join me as we convey our condolences to the family and friends of Norman Blankenship.
21 Dec 06
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Glen M. Tracy, CPO, USN (Retired) March 24, 1924 - November 11, 2006 |
Glenn M. Tracy, age 82, of Valparaiso, Fla., died at West Florida Regional Hospital on Nov. 11, 2006.
He was born on March 19, 1924, in Sharon, Vt. He was Catholic by faith and a communicant of St. Michael’s Catholic Church. He also belonged to many fraternal organizations. He married Isabella Pergamo of Boston in 1951. Glenn came to this area in the mid-1970s from Turner Air Force Base, Albany, Ga. He was “Mister Personality” for the Eglin Air Force Base Fire Department for over 20 years. He honorably served his country for over 20 years in the U.S. Navy. He was twice retired — first, as a Navy Chief Petty Officer as a Naval Corpsman; and second, as an Air Force civil service-fire captain, Eglin Air Force Base Fire Department as a Base Fire Prevention Inspector.
He is survived by his wife, Isabella; brother, Elmer Tracy and wife Alice Tracy of Massachusetts; sister-in-law, Lucy Lopilato of Port St. Lucie, Fla.; niece, Paula Levesque and husband Ronny of Port St. Lucie; nephew, Robert and Anita Lopilato of Columbia, Tenn.
A memorial service will be held for Glenn Tracy on Saturday, Dec. 23, at noon at AMVETS Post 78, 910 Valastic Ave., Valparaiso, with Stephen Olivier officiating. Service is hosted by AMVETS Honor Guard, which has been so helpful in assisting Isabella through this difficult time of a loved one’s loss. Following services, internment will take place in Barrancas National Cemetery at a later date.
Twin Cities Funeral Home, 1405 John Sims Pkwy., Niceville, is entrusted with arrangements.
Please contact Chief Bob Barrow on Firefighters attending the Memorial on 23 Dec 2006 at the AMVETS. chief.one@cox.net
14 Nov 06
Mr. James (Willie) Williams passed away on Tuesday, 14 Nov 06. His funeral will be Sunday 19 Nov 06 at 1400 and grave side service on Monday, 20 Nov 06 at 1000 at the Higginsville MO Veterans Cemetery.
Willie was 57 years old
Retired Military after 20 years, Retired from Whiteman AFB
Civil Services of 19 years. Retired March 06 from Whiteman AFB
6 Nov 06
William Wilson, CMSgt, USAF Retired
1933 - 2006
William “Chief” Wilson CMSgt, USAF (Retired), 73, of
Savannah, Georgia, and formally of Fort Walton Beach, Florida, passed away
peacefully at Hospice Savannah, Inc., on Monday, November 6, 2006.
He was born in Savannah, Georgia, and was preceded in death by his wife of 52
years, Annie Ruth Rawlings Wilson, a daughter, Debra, and 2 sons, Steven and
Ronnie.
He was retired from the US Air Force with over 30 years of Service. He served in several capacities over the years. At the time of his retirement in 1994 from the US Civil Service, he was Assistant Fire Chief of Training for the Eglin Air Force Base Fire Department in Fort Walton Beach, Florida.
He is survived by a daughter, Patricia R. Dempsey (David) of Carrabelle, Florida; 3 brothers, Pelzer Wilson, Jr., of Reidsville, Georgia; Joe Wilson of Garden City, Georgia; and John Wilson of Pooler, Georgia; 2 sisters, Mrs. Rosemary Waters of Garden City, Georgia, and Mrs. Dorothy Dabbs of Pulaski, Georgia, 4 grandchildren, Sandy and Steven Wilson, and Jessica and Deborah Dempsey, a very special friend, Juanita Googe of Savannah, Georgia, and several nieces and nephews.
The Chief was interned in Forest Lawn Memory Gardens in Savanna, Georgia with Full Military Honors.
Remembrances may be sent
to: Hospice Savannah, Inc., 1352 Eisenhower Drive, Savannah, Georgia 31406.
30 Oct 06 -
Brian Stoneback, CMSgt, USAFR (Retired)
Jan 25, 1941 - October 29, 2006
Chief Master Sergeant, USAFR (Retired), Brian Stoneback, a former member of the AFCESA Fire Team during the late 1980s and early 1990s passed away Sunday morning, 29 Oct 06. Brian served a career in the Air Force Reserve Fire Protection Program and as a Dallas Texas firefighter. He was involved in numerous fire programs at AFCESA and was called to Active Duty during Desert Storm I to assist in the mobilization of the Air Reserve Component firefighters. After retirement he maintained a residence in Mexico Beach FL.
The family of Chief Stoneback will host a "Celebration of Life" at the Mexico Beach Fire Department on Wednesday, 1 November commencing at 1530 hours. A Moment of Silence will be observed AF-wide at shift change on 1 Nov 06.
The passing of one of our
past USAF Reserve Fire Chief’s!
http://www.dallasnews.com/sharedcontent/dws/dn/obituaries/stories/092406dnmetgainesobit.dcfb85a.html
With regret, I would like to inform you of a fallen firefighter in hopes you will post in the appropriate section.
My best friend, TSgt Jacob E. Lessen was tragically killed in a motorcycle accident on the 4th of September, 2006. After a Labor day riding trip in the Ozarks, Jacob "Jake," his wife Kristi, brother, and sister-in-law, were returning home to Springfield, IL. About 10 miles from home, a vehicle suddenly, and without warning, turned in front of Jake causing him to take evasive action. Attempting to avoid collision with the vehicle, Jake was forced to venture into oncoming traffic where he lost control and dropped the bike. Although both Jake and Kristi were wearing full helmets, Jake sustained a traumatic head injury and died instantly. I'm happy to report that Kristi is going to make it however she sustained a serious liver injury and severely broken arm. She continues to improve but will require continuous care and weeks of rest to help her liver repair itself.
Jake Lessen had a long and distinguished career in both the USAF, City of Lincoln FD, and City of Springfield FD, Illinois.
Enlisting in the USAF, Jake was assigned to the 67th CES at Bergstrom AFB, Austin TX. Spending four years active duty, Jake separated from the USAF and was immediately hired as a GS-05 Firefighter when Bergstrom converted to an ARS. Nearing the closing of the ARS in 1995, Jake returned home to Lincoln, Illinois where he took a civilian/military position with the 183rd FW, Springfield ANG Base, IL. He continued to work there until 1997 when he was hired in his home town as a firefighter with the Lincoln FD. Electing to stay in the ANG, Jake continued serving until his passing. Upon marrying his wife Kristi in 2002, Jake decided to make a career move to the Springfield FD where he worked as a firefighter at Station 11.
Myself, along with two other long time friends and co-workers at BAFB, traveled this past week to attend the services in Springfield. With assistance from all of Jakes affiliated Departments, the Springfield FD and 183rd FW FD laid Jake to rest with full honors Thursday, the 21st of September 2006 at Camp Butler National Cemetery, Springfield IL.
Jonathan Hancock
Station Chief 1
Engine 1 / Rescue 1
Fort Hood Fire and Emergency Services
25 Aug 06
As you may be aware, IAFF Local F151 (Walter Reed) member Brother Karl Wanger passed away last Sunday after a motorcycle accident while vacationing in Louisiana. Karl’s wife Nadya, passed away this Wednesday as a result of injuries from the same accident. This is a very sad and unfortunate situation for both F151 and the families of Karl and Nadya. Our sympathy goes out to both the members of Local F151 and the families at this unfortunate time of loss.
The arrangements for Karl F & Nadya Wagner are as follows. Viewing Thursday August 31, 2006 @ 14:00 - 16:00 & 18:00 - 20:00 @ Lee Funeral Home 6633 Old Alexander Ferry Road, Clinton, Maryland 20735. Funeral Friday September 1, 2006 10:00 @ Russian Orthodox Church of St John the Baptist, 4001 17th Street Northwest, Washington, DC 20011.
Fraternally,
Jim
DVP16
To the 16th District
1 September 2006
Today we put to rest Brother Karl Wagner and his wife Nadya. The services went very well today. I would like to thank those members of the 16th District and 16th Vice President Johnson for all of the support they have given to our local. I would like to thank the IAFF Locals in the area who sent over members to cover the fire apparatus so our members could go to the funeral home and the funeral. I would like to mention a few locals and I miss someone I'm sorry it's been a long two weeks. I would like to thank the following locals: Naval District of Washington, Ft. Myer, Fort Belvior, Raven Rock and non IAFF Local Quantico Marine Corp Base for standing by for our members. I would to think NIH and FT. Meade in assisting with the Arches at Walter Reed and at the cemetery.
Thank you again
Be Safe,
Mark B. Selke
President, Local F-151
1 Aug 06
It is my sad duty to inform you of the death of Chief Dean Greb, Buckley AFB CO. Please provide appropriate honors according the above brochure on 8 Aug 06, the day of his funeral. Chief Greb passed away while off duty and not in the performance of fire fighting duties. Please keep the friends and family of Chief Greb, and the men and women of the Buckley AFB fire department in your prayers.
Service: Tuesday, 8 August at Buckley AFB Chapel
Interment: Immediately following service at Ft. Logan cemetery
22 Jun 06
SOOY, THOMAS R., "The Chief", 80 - Egg Harbor City, went home to be with the
Lord on June 22, 2006. Tom served his country in the United States Navy from 1944 to 1947. After his discharge he became a firefighter at the Naval Air Station in Pomona (NAFEC), where he rose to the position of Chief of Fire/Crash Rescue for the FAA. After retirement from the FAA, he served as project manager for JOWA Security and Fire Services, Inc. at the FAA Tech Center. He was the last surviving member of the original Egg Harbor City Volunteer Police and Ambulance Squad. Tom was a charter and life member of VFW Post 5341. He was a life member (over 50 years) of Hiram T. Dewey Lodge #226 F & AM and served as Worthy Patron of the Dewey Chapter 155 O.E.S. The Chief belonged to numerous local, state, national and international fire fighting associations. As a former Scoutmaster of Boy Scout Troop 46, Tom had many wonderful camping experiences with both his sons. Having been a member of Zion Lutheran Church for over 50 years, Tom was involved in many aspects of church life and served several terms on the church council. Tom is survived by his devoted wife of 54 years, Constance; and two sons, Thomas R. Sooy, Jr. (Nancy) of Cologne, and Russell J. Sooy of Zuni, Virginia. Tom was the proud grandfather of Jennifer Sooy, Alexandra M. Chapman (Jason), Meghan L. Sooy, Russell J. Sooy, Jr., and one great-grandchild, Rachel Byron. A memorial service was held on June 25th at Zion Lutheran Church, 312 Philadelphia Ave., Egg Harbor City, NJ. Tom was a generous man and, in lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations be made to Zion Lutheran Church or the charity of your choice.19 Jun 06
TSgt Ernest Rockamore, 36, a firefighter at Hurlburt AFB FL, died in an apparent boating accident on Friday, 17 Jun 06. His body was found on Saturday.
Ernest had and his wife had 4 children, ranging in age from 3 months to 14 years.
Please honor the memory of Firefighter Rockamore with appropriate ceremony on WEDNESDAY, 21 JUNE 2006, in accordance with the brochure above.
Leave your condolences for the family here. NOTE: after you hit the submit button, you'll get a bad page returned...but your entry has recorded so don't hit it again. (The problem is ME...I just haven't figured it out yet.)
Memorial Services at Hurlburt Field:
Thursday, 29 Jun 06, 0830: Procession from Fire House 1 to Chapel 1
Thursday, 29 Jun 06, 0900: Memorial at Hurlburt Field Chapel 1
Thursday, 29 Jun 06, 1100: Reception at Fire House 1
Georgia Memorial:
Saturday,
24 Jun 06: Montezuma, GA, Oglethrop
Funeral Chapel, Inc 478-472-6118
(Funeral Director:
Gretha Young)
19 May 06
Jeffrey Lee Harris , Virginia Beach
On Friday, May 19, 2006, Fire Captain Jeffrey Lee Harris passed away. He
was a devoted father, husband, a loving son and a dedicated fire captain at the
Norfolk Naval Base Fire Department, Station 3. He is survived by his wife,
Leigh Poore Harris, daughter, Katherine "Katie" and his son,
Jason. Online
condolences may be sent to the family . His
obituary.
v/r,
Bennie
"Bud" Williams
Fire
Chief
Navy
Region Mid-Atlantic
Fire
and Emergency Services
Naval
Station Norfolk
14 May 06 - Charles "Chuck" Warren Risinger, CMSgt, USAF (Retired), Nov 17, 1942 - May 14, 2006
Charles "Chuck" Warren Risinger, CMSgt, USAF (Retired), passed away early Sunday, 14 May 06, at home of a heart attack..
Viewing/visitation will be on Wednesday, 17 May 2006 from 5-8 pm. Funeral services will be on Thursday, 18 May 2006 at 10 am at
Our Lady of Guadalupe
1500 North 15th St
Mexico Beach, FL 32410
Phone: (850) 648-3006
Chief Risinger's ashes will be returned to Illinois by his wife Connie for burial bury in the family cemetery. In lieu of flowers, a donation may be made to the Mexico Beach Fire Department, Box 13425, Mexico Beach, FL 32410.
|
Hugh E. "Marty" Martin, SMSgt, USAF (Ret) |
Marty & Markey – 51 years together |
Marty died Thursday
afternoon at his home in
He was under hospice care due to reoccurring cancer
discovered during a 2003 colon surgery. Kidney failure and double
pneumonia made it more difficult at the end. Covenant Hospice and his
loving Family kept him as comfortable as possible. Marty was born,
November 5, 1930 in
14 Feb 06 - Wilson Coen Sawyer, Feb 21, 1937 - Feb 14, 2006
Wilson Coen Sawyer Jr., 68, of 2203 Shady Drive, Elizabeth City, N.C., died Tuesday, Feb. 14, 2006, at his residence. Mr. Sawyer was born Feb. 21, 1937, in Camden County, N.C., and was the son of the late Wilson Coen Sawyer Sr. and Gertie Nash Sawyer. He was a member of the Geneva Baptist Church, a former fireman with the Elizabeth City Fire Department, U.S. Coast Guard Fire Department, Norfolk (Va.) Naval Base Fire Department, and retired from the Oceana Naval Air Station Fire Department. After retirement, he was employed with Protect Security at the Elizabeth City Coast Guard Base. Survivors include his wife, Angelyn Moore Sawyer; daughter, Wendy Sawyer Barnett and husband, Johnnie, of Camden, N.C.; stepdaughter, Pamela Perry of Elizabeth City; son, Keith Sawyer of Elizabeth City, N.C.; stepson, Samuel Perry and Trisha Tarre of Elizabeth City; sisters, Lauvenia Eason, Jean Sawyer and Nellie Riggs, all of Sough Mills, N.C. and Gertie Mae Small of Elizabeth City; brother Hubert Sawyer of South Mills, N.C.; and nine grandchildren. He was preceded in death by two sons, Ralph Kevin Sawyer and Thomas Wayne Sawyer. A funeral service was held on Friday, Feb. 17, 2006, at the Geneva Baptist Church with the Rev. Kelly Lacy officiating. Entombment followed in the West Lawn Memorial Cemetery. Members of the fire departments that Mr. Sawyer served served as active and honorary pallbearers. The family received friends Thursday evening at Twiford's Funeral Home, 405 E. Church St., Elizabeth City.
10 Feb 06 - Chief Ronald "Ron" Vernengo (Retired), November 12, 1941 - February 6, 2006
Born: Nov. 12, 1941, Meadowview
Died: Feb. 6, 2006, Anaheim
Survivors: Wife, Barbara; sons, Adam, Aaron, David; daughters, Debbie King,
Carole Weaver; brothers, Kenneth, Richard; sister, Janette Hutchison; grandsons,
Kristopher, Jonathan, Jordan, Kyle, Keifer.
Services: 2 p.m. Saturday, Renaker-Klockgether Mortuary, Buena Park.
Ron Vernengo was one of the lucky ones.
He got to live his dream of being a firefighter and he enjoyed it for 27 years, retiring in 1999 as department chief.
He gave schoolchildren tours of the Marine Corps Air Station at El Toro, where his fire station was. He painstakingly explained every working part on the hook-and-ladder truck, showed them the shiny, brass pole that the firefighters slid down in the dead of night, and let them slip their tiny feet into the firefighters' big boots.
He made his grandchildren a backyard firehouse replica, complete with pot-bellied stove, a loft and a pole, plus a set of turn-outs (firefighter talk for pants, jacket and boots ready to slip into.)
And he created from an electric golf cart a small fire truck, for which he fashioned a siren, a bell and varnished ladders. It was used at parades and festivals and lent to other cities for special occasions.
Ron was 64 when he died, two blocks from his Anaheim home, of a massive heart attack Feb. 6 while driving back from an errand. He'd shown no signs of illness, and was looking forward to a game of golf with his brother Ken and some friends.
Born in Meadowview in Northern California, Ron graduated from Napa High School, went to a junior college, then worked for a Los Angeles sign-painting firm.
But his heart was in firefighting, and in 1972, he was hired by the Tustin Fire Department and stationed at El Toro.
From backing up city fire departments, battling hillside blazes to assisting at traffic accidents (he was also a paramedic), there was nothing about the job that didn't appeal to Ron.
Working 24 hours on, 24 hours off left him plenty of time for his other interests, which included making, fixing or improving just about anything around the house.
His wife, Barbara, could bring home an old piece of furniture that looked downright hopeless, and Ron would transform it into a treasured antique.
He did plumbing, wiring, roofing, painting and carpentry. He'd just built a barbecue island and was drawing up plans for a cover over it.
At Christmas, he installed on the roof animated reindeer pulling Santa in a sleigh, all of which he built from sheets of plywood and had on a timer, so Santa could get a move-on, even if Ron wasn't home to turn him on.
His family can't recall a dull or sour moment with Ron, who was as comfortable with others as he was with himself.
Outgoing and friendly, he was willing to help anyone. People could call in the middle of the night with a broken pipe or leaking roof, and Ron would jump out of bed and head out.
He and Ken were identical twins and nearly inseparable - living apart only four years of their lives. They talked on the phone three or four times a day.
They made the most of their identical looks, playing the old switcheroo many times. Ken even had Ron take his place on a date once and Ron got engaged to (but didn't marry) the girl, who never knew he wasn't Ken.
Ron had a son and Barbara had four children when they married, but he instantly won over Barbara's children by fixing their TV the first time he came to their house.
They found him impossible not to like.
He rarely got cross and if he felt the need to swear, the worst that came from his mouth was, "Oh, sugar!"
He was so easygoing, his family said he didn't know what stress was.
Ron loved the outdoors and for years took the whole family to Lake Havasu each year to camp, water ski and Jet Ski - a week they all looked forward to.
Even when son Adam was in veterinary school, he told his professors, "I won't be in class next week. I can't miss this trip."
Ron may have enjoyed the vacation most of all - just to see his family having such a wonderful time.
5 Feb 06
We are saddened to pass along the news concerning
the death of Firefighter Randy Benedict on 5 Feb 06, of the Navy Region Mid
Atlantic Fire Department (Portsmouth District). Firefighter Benedict had been
battling cancer for the past several months and had not been able to work.
Last night Firefighter Benedict succumbed to his illness and passed away.
Randy's death is a loss to his family and
friends, and the entire Navy Fire & Emergency Services Community. On
behalf of Navy firefighters world-wide, please convey our condolences to the
family and friends of Firefighter Benedict, and to his co-workers at Navy Region
Mid Atlantic Fire Department.
Funeral arrangements for Firefighter Benedict will
be provided as soon as they are finalized.
Firefighter Benedict was included in the DoD
F&ES "Taking Care of Our Own" program and Navy Region Mid Atlantic
and Firefighter Benedict's family has expressed appreciation for those who had
kept Randy in their thoughts and prayers during his illness.
Carl
B. Glover, Jr.
Program
Manager, Navy Fire & Emergency Services
31 Jan 06 - Charles (Chuck) E. Tanner, SMSgt, USAF (retired), November 29, 1935 - January 29, 2006
Charles "Chuck" E. Tanner, 70, was greeted by the Heavenly Father on Wednesday, Jan. 25, 2006, in Wichita Falls. Memorial services with military honors will be held Monday, Jan. 30, 2006, at 11 a.m. in the chapel of Hampton Vaughan Crestview. Visitation will be held Sunday, Jan. 29, from 5 to 7 p.m. at Hampton Vaughan Crestview.
Chuck was born Nov. 29, 1935, in Somerset, Ky., to Elijah and Ida Tanner. He was the sibling of one sister and five brothers. He graduated from Lincoln High School, Cambridge, Ind., in May of 1954. Chuck enlisted in the U.S. Air Force, Sept. 20, 1954, and received his basic training at Sampson Air Force Base (AFB), Geneva, N.Y.
He married the love of his life, Rita K. Tanner on Sept. 16, 1964, in Peru, Ind. He was a loving and devoted father and husband, and a great friend to many, known for his loyalty and integrity. He had a distinguished military career of 30 plus years serving his country in the U.S. Air Force as a firefighter. His tours of duty included French Morocco, North Africa; Altus AFB, Okla.; Bunker Hill AFB, Ind.; Aviano, AFB, Italy; Davis Monthan AFB, Ariz.; Thailand; Eglin AFB, Fla.; Great Falls, Mont.; Iraklion Air Station, Crete, Greece; and his last tour at Sheppard AFB, Texas.
Chuck retired from the U.S. Air Force in October 1984, and then served with the Department of Defense (DOD), Civil Service at Sheppard AFB in the fire department from April 1985 to 1992.
Chuck was a lifelong athlete and spent 30 years pitching fast pitch softball around the world winning many championships. He coached youth league basketball, softball, and taught many sports clinics.
He was also an avid fisherman and spent many of his retirement years crappie fishing at Lake Arrowhead and traveling around the world with his wife.
He is survived by his wife of 41 years, Rita K. (Steffey) of Wichita Falls; two daughters, Natalie Taylor and husband, Bryan of Huntsville, Ala., and Angela Haynes and husband Rodney of Fort Walton Beach, Fla.; a brother, Joseph Tanner of Richmond, Ind.; four sisters-in-law, Delia Kraus and husband, Leonard from Ingalls, Ind., Rosie Schofield and husband, Dennis, Relna and her husband, Edward, from Peru, Ind., Sue Tanner of Centerville, Ind.; one brother-in-law, Darrald Steffey and wife Reggie of Bunker Hill, Ind., multiple loving nieces and nephews and many great nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, his sister, Christine Mitchell, and four brothers, Harrison, Leslie, Franklin and Samuel.
Memorials may be made to American Heart Association of North Texas, 2401 Scott Ave., Fort Worth, Texas 76103-2228
Please help us celebrate the life of Charles E. Tanner by visiting www.mem.com
Duane B. Kirk
Emergency Preparedness Coordinator
South Texas Veterans Health Care System (003D)
19 Jan 06 - Lead Firefighter Robert C. Yow, Eglin AFB FL -- Updated on 24 Jan 06:
Funeral
Time: 1100
Location:
Burial:
Uniform
Fire Personnel are requested to arrive 30 minutes prior to funeral service
11 Jan 06 - Chief Ronald Diener, Vance AFB OK
It is my sad task to notify the family of AF firefighters that a family member has passed away. Fire Chief Ronald Diener, Vance AFB OK, died today of an apparent heart attack he suffered a few days ago.
Chief Diener will be honored with a
Chief Ronald Diener was born in Enid Oklahoma and graduated from Enid High School. He served as a corpsman in the Navy in Vietnam. He worked for Champlin Refinery Corp. Chief Diener started at Vance AFB Fire Dept 1984 as a fire Inspector Assumed the Fire Chief position in 2005.
Chief Diener's Funeral services will be Saturday, 14 January 2006, at the Ladusau-Evans Funeral Home Chapel, 2800 Vanburen Enid, Okla. 73703. Grave site Interment will be at Memorial Park Cemetery, Enid, Oklahoma. Full Fire Department Honors will be performed. Please keep the Diener Family in your Prayers.
On behalf of AF firefighters worldwide, please extend our sincere condolences to the family and friends of Chief Diener. I pray that God will comfort them in this time of great loss.
