U.S.S. SEA LEOPARD SS-483

Lost Harbor by Leslie Nelson Jennings There is a port of no return, where ships May ride at anchor for a little space And then, some starless night, the cable slips, Leaving an eddy at the mooring place . . . Gulls, veer no longer. Sailor, rest your oar. No tangled wreckage will be washed ashore.

 Click image to enlarge

Ellis D Jordan , ET2(SS), 63-64    On  Eternal Patrol 3/17/2024

Served On SS-483

Ellis Dale Jordan, a beloved husband, father, grandfather and friend to many passed away on April 8, 2024, at the age of 79.  Ellis was born October 11, 1944 in Urich, Missouri and attended school in Ballard, Missouri and was a member of the Class of 1962.

Soon after graduating Ellis became a sailor for the United States Navy. While in school at Great Lakes Naval Base, he drove to Milwaukee with his fellow sailors for a night at George Devine’s Million Dollar Ballroom, where he met the love of his life, Roberta. Ellis and Roberta were married on April 6, 1963 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. With this union, Ellis qualified for United States Submarine Service and became a member of the crew of the USS Sea Leopard SS-483, where he proudly served until 1965, Upon his Honorable Discharge from active service, he returned to Milwaukee and became a part of the United States Naval Reserves.

During this time in the Naval Reserves, Ellis enrolled at UW-Milwaukee, graduating in 1970 with a degree in accounting. With his degree Ellis joined Touch Ross (Deloitte) as a Certified Public Accountant, where he spent his entire professional career dedicated to his clients and colleagues until his retirement in 2002.Following his retirement, Ellis joined UW-MIlwaukee and the Lubar College of Business as the CPA in residence, mentoring students on their path to becoming finance professionals. Ellis truly lived his life to the fullest and was able to spend his time doing his favorite things. Beyond his professional endeavors, Ellis enjoyed the outdoors. Ellis spent countless hours hunting, fishing,spending time with his friends and family, and watching his beloved grandsons grow. Ellis was a proud member of the Great Lakes Submarine Base and Wern Valley Sportsman Club. Ellis will be remembered as having the uncanny ability to make friends wherever he went and making a room smile with his stories and his cooking skills at camp. Ellis will be forever remembered by his closest friends Tim, Carl, Kenny, Bob and Jim, his North Caribou Crew, his friends at Wern Valley and his fellow subvets.

“Always Remembered – Never Forgotten, Sailor, rest your oars”

Paul Turner 67-69   On  Eternal Patrol 3/17/2024

Served On SS-483

Paul Vincent Turner Sr., a man of many names and even more stories, passed away peacefully on March 17, 2024 at the age of 79.

Born in 1945, Paul wore many hats throughout his life – son, brother, husband, father, grandfather (Grandpop or Pop-pop to some), friend, and yes, even the occasional “hateful bastard” as he’d playfully admit.

Paul served his country proudly in the Navy aboard the USS Sea Leopard (SS-483), a Tench-class submarine. His Navy buddies knew him as “PV,” a charismatic jokester with an uncanny ability to get a laugh (or a groan) out of anyone.

He was a man who loved the open road, navigating life with an uncanny sense of direction, with his internal compass. His life wasn’t always smooth sailing, but he weathered every storm with wit and a mischievous twinkle in his eye. He wouldn’t hesitate to “bust your stones,” but you always knew he’d give you the shirt off his back if needed. BZ, PV, well done.

Paul is survived by his devoted wife, Judith; sons, Peter Sr (Michelle) and Paul Jr(Beth); four grandsons, Peter II, Thomas, Paul III and Dominic; his sister, Linda (Joseph) Albany; and many loving nieces and nephews.

John Wass  64-66   On  Eternal Patrol 3/16/2024

Served On DD-881, SS-315, SS-483, SSN-675, SSN-693

Albert John Wass of Bethel, Ohio passed away at the Ohio Veterans Home in Georgetown, Ohio on Saturday, March 16, 2024, he was 82 years old. John was born to the late Albert John and Agnes Rose “Poe” (nee Ross) Wass on October 19, 1941 in Cincinnati, Ohio.

John retired from the United States Navy in 1979 serving in the Vietnam Conflict with a rank of QMC (SS), he was also a retired Insurance Agent from John Hancock. John enjoyed attending any and all veterans events/activities and family sporting events, making his weekly visits to the VFW/American legion. He also loved sitting on his back porch reading, and listening to music. John took trips, near and far, he was known to tell jokes he picked up from his time in the service, along with submarine stories.

Bosquet N. Wev, Jr.   60-62  On  Eternal Patrol 1/19/2024

Served On SS-299, SS-399, SS-343, SS-483, SSBN-622

CDR Bosquet N. Wev, Jr., USN (Ret.), passed away on Friday, January 19, 2024 in Fredericksburg, VA. He was 94 years old.

Born in Baltimore, MD, “Biscuit” was the son of RADM and Mrs. B. N. Wev (‘27). He entered the Academy via a Presidential Appointment after prepping at Severn School. While at Annapolis, he was a crew team coxswain during plebe year, a dinghy sailor as a Youngster, and managed the dinghy team the last two years. Biscuit also served as company representative for The Log.

Upon graduation, he was commissioned as a Navy ensign and married his Academy OAO, Anne “Petey” Campbell Armistead. Biscuit excelled as a Submarine Officer. Over his 20-year career in the Silent Service, he served in submarines including USS MANTA, USS CLAMAGORE, USS SEA CAT and USS SEA LEOPARD as executive officer. Shore assignments included teaching Sonar systems to U.S. and international students in Key West, FL and a support assignment in Millington, TN. In 1962, he joined USS JAMES MONROE (SSBN 622) under construction in Newport News. Biscuit served as the Blue Crew Navigator on his first nuclear powered submarine, enjoying deployments to Rota, Spain and Holy Loch, Scotland. His final assignments were spent serving on the staff of Submarine Forces, Atlantic Fleet in Norfolk, VA and the Pentagon, retiring in 1972.

His civilian years were spent as a contractor in the Washington, D.C. area. Petey and Biscuit enjoyed 20 years in Arlington, VA, being very active at Grace Episcopal Church in Alexandria. As a USNA Alumni Association member and ‘52 Class President, he was an enthusiastic supporter at home football games. He shared his love of the Naval Academy and the Redskins with everyone he met, and was known for his extensive Blue & Gold and Burgundy & Gold wardrobe. In 1984, Petey and Biscuit moved to Annapolis and enjoyed many years of boating on the Chesapeake Bay and entertaining family and friends. Sailing aboard Holland America lines with the Jazz Cruise kept them busy for many years. They were very active at St. Anne’s Episcopal Church where Biscuit served as Junior Warden for many years.

Roger Allen Welch   67-69  On  Eternal Patrol 12/11/2023

Served On SS-483, SS-522

Roger Allen Welch, 77, of Flint Hill, Virginia passed away on Monday, December 11, 2023 in the comfort of his Rappahannock home.

Roger was born on June 2, 1946 in Front Royal, Virginia to the late William Roland and Arland Fincham Welch. He was also preceded in death by his brother, William Roland Welch Jr.

As a graduate of Rappahannock County High School, Roger attended Virginia Tech before being drafted. He served in the United States Navy as a submariner from 1967 to 1973 during the Vietnam War. He was an electrical technician aboard the U.S.S. Sea Leopard and the U.S.S. Amberjack during which he received achievement awards in 1970 and 1971. He was also President of the Rappahannock Lions Club and held multiple leadership positions from 1990-2020. He was a charter member of Rappahannock County High School Boosters Club serving as President, Vice President, and Treasurer. He was a Deacon at Washington Baptist Church for 4 years where he was an active member for over 50 years.

Roger worked for over 35 years at General Electric and wrote many of the computer numerical control manuals for the company during his employment. He played for years on the GE softball team, winning MVP for the entire Richmond area league. He loved coaching Ryan and Courtney’s sports teams and tried to never miss a game. He was an avid sports fan, faith leader, statesman, and community servant.

Roger proudly served the citizens of Rappahannock County as a Supervisor for the Wakefield District for 22 years, serving as Chairman of the Board for 10 years. During his time as Supervisor, he also served on the Rappahannock Rapidan Regional Commission for 9 years and received the Distinguished Leadership Government Award in 2019. He also served on the RSW Regional Jail Authority for Rappahannock, Shenandoah, and Warren Counties. He completed his public service on December 31, 2019. Roger’s dedication and service to the citizens of Rappahannock County will be felt for many years to come.

Roger valiantly fought Parkinson’s disease for 15 years with the support of his wife Geneva. He served as a case study for Parkinson’s Disease and was the main subject for a presentation done by Dr. Figari in the University of Virginia’s Neurology Department with area hospitals and rehab centers to improve the understanding and care of patients with Parkinson’s.

James R.Myers III   71-73  On  Eternal Patrol 9/9/2023

Served On SS-525, SS-406, SS-485, SS-483, FF-1072

James Robert “Jim” Myers III, 80, passed away Saturday September 9, 2023. He was born March 27, 1943 to the late James Robert Myers, Jr. and Geneva Hall Myers. Mr. Myers served in the US Navy 22 years retired as a E8 Senior Chief Petty Officer, and was a member of Liberty Baptist Church in Winston-Salem. Jim also served two submarine groups the Tarheel Base Submarine group and the Nathaniel Greene Submarine group.

Dr. Robert L. Bovey, Captain 59-60  On  Eternal Patrol 7/8/2023

Served On  SS-483, SSN-660

Cold War Submarine Veteran, Dr. Robert L Bovey, Capt. USN, Ret. died on Saturday, July 8, 2023 in Winchester, Virginia at the age of 85.
Bob, as he was universally known, was born in Lewisburg, Pennsylvania, but spent his formative years in Lincoln, Nebraska. He graduated from the US Naval Academy in 1959 with a BS in Marine Engineering and married his wife Rosalind in 1960. He received a PhD from Johns Hopkins University in 1964 and an MS, US Navy Nuclear Power Training Program in 1965.
During his 22 years in the Navy he served on both fast attack (SSN) and ballistic missile (SSBN) submarines. His last sea duty assignment was as Captain of the USS Sand Lance SSN660. His last shore tours were as Special Assistant to the Director of Central Intelligence and Military Assistant to the Secretary of Defense. Bob’s honors include the Defense Distinguished Service Medal, the National Distinguished Service Medal and the Legion of Merit.
After retiring from the Navy he worked as an international business consultant. Following that Bob spent 25 years with the Institute for Defense Analyses (IDA) working on matters of national security, homeland defense and taking on jobs that leveraged his deep understanding of naval and nuclear warfare. His professional activities included IISS, INFORMS and ISE.
Bob was a member of his father’s Masonic Lodge for 60 years (Cotner Lodge #297 in Lincoln, Nebraska) and a member of the American Legion Post 199.
Bob was a loving husband, a kind father and a generous friend. His interests included Civil War History and his farm in Maurertown in the Shenandoah Valley. He and Rosalind resided in the North Ridge area of Alexandria and were intensively involved in civic affairs from 1969 until their move to Shenandoah Valley Westminster Canterbury retirement community in 2018.

John Robert “Bob” Clas   61-62  On  Eternal Patrol 7/6/2023

 

Served On SS-481, SS-483

John Robert “Bob” Clas Sr., age 83, of York Springs, passed away Thursday, July 6, 2023 at his residence.
John Robert “Bob” Clas Sr.John Robert “Bob” Clas Sr. He was born September 9, 1939 in Baltimore, to the late Edward Allen and Marguerite Agnes (Keene) Clas.

He was a retired veteran of the US Navy in the submarine division which he served for more than 30 years. John was a life member of the SubVets Naval Enlisted Reserves, American Legion Sykesville Memorial Post #223 in Sykesville,  MD, Winfield Community Fire Department, Steam Fitters Local 438 and Lions Club Roaring Run in Finksburg, MD.

He was employed as a HVAC technician until his retirement. John enjoyed farming and trains.

James Henry Hiers 69-69  On  Eternal Patrol 6/26/2023

Served On SS-483

James was born October 1, 1949 in Thomasville, GA to the late Robert “Poppy” S. Hiers and Marjorie “Bajee” Belle Weller Hiers. James began his career in the US Navy, serving as a Yeoman aboard the submarine the USS Sea Leopard. After his naval career, he became a Respiratory Therapist. He was recruited by the then Columbus College to become a professor of Respiratory Therapy, and during his professorship earned his master’s degree. James was a natural teacher, and his love language was humor. James was a pragmatic creative, focusing his creations on things that aided his family in their everyday tasks. He designed and constructed a Geodesic Dome for his own personal workshop as this structure was the most economical to build and left the smallest environmental impact on its surroundings. James favorite past-time was spending time with his Grandchildren, and his brother, George.

Charles M Kesmodel, Jr 54-54  On  Eternal Patrol 5/30/2023

Served On SS-315, SS-483

Cold War Submarine Veteran, Charles M. Kesmodel, Jr, of Fort Myers, FL entered eternal life on May 30, 2023. Born on November 2, 1931 in Baltimore, MD, he was the son of the late Charles M. and Margaret W. Kesmodel of Lexington, KY. Charles volunteered for the submarine Service, U.S. Navy, and was a veteran of the Korean war. After receiving his honorable discharge, he entered Marshall University, Huntington, WV, graduating with a bachelors degree in marketing in May, 1958. He was married to Wilma Jane Martin on September 7, 1956, in Charleston, WV. Following graduation he was employed by two major oil companies serving in marketing management for twenty years. in 1979 Charles moved to Culver, IN and with his wife purchased and managed several business holdings. He and his wife retired and moved to Florida in 2003. Charles was a lifetime member of the VFW and member of the American Legion. During his business career he was named to Who’s Who in America in the Midwest, served on the board of directors of several business associations and held a commission of an Honorable Kentucky Colonel. Charles was a member of the Village Church, and Shell Point retirement community.

Kenneth N Yaden Jr 62-64  On  Eternal Patrol 4/24/2023

 

Served On SS-483

Kenneth Yaden was born on Halloween, October 31, 1944, in Hayes, Kansas, to Kenneth Neil Yaden and Rosetta (Green) Yaden. Kenneth Sr, was stationed in Hayes during WWII.

The family moved to Elsmere in 1954 and Yader attended Lloyd Memorial High School, where he was Captain of the football team, and is in the Hall of Fame for his achievements.

He also played softball, golf, and bowling, and scored a 300-point game in 1982.

After high school, Yaden wanted to enlist in the United States Navy, and he talked his parents into signing the papers to join the US Navy Submarine Service because he was not yet 18. He spent his 18th birthday under the ocean in a submarine during the Cold War. Qualified in submarines on the USS Sea Leopard (SS-483) in 1963 and was a FN(SS) when he left the Navy. He was awarded the US Expeditionary Medal during the Cold War.

Yaden attended Eastern Kentucky University, University of Virginia, and Thomas More College.

He was the President of the FBI National Academy, Kentucky Chapter and graduated in the 101st session. He was also the President of the Kentucky Police Chiefs Association, and the Vice President of the FOP Lodge 20. He was Director of the Northern Kentucky Narcotic Enforcement Unit. He logged over 2,000 hours of training in police-related subjects, including the USDEA, USATF, and the FBI. He graduated from the Police Academy in 1975 in Quantico, Virginia, and took the police training at Richmond.

He was the co-author of the ‘Silent Alarm’ Program for Northern Kentucky Financial Institutions.

Richard Allen Metz  57-62  On  Eternal Patrol 4/3/2023

 

Served On SS-483, SS-475, SS-485

Cold War Submarine Veteran, Richard Allen Metz, 83, passed away in Norfolk on Monday, April 3, 2023. He was born in Morgantown, WV to the late Shirley and Mildred Metz. He was also predeceased by his wife of 55 years, Brenda J. Metz and his son, Richard, Jr. as well. Richard lived most of his life in the Norfolk and Virginia Beach area. He retired from the US Navy as a Senior Chief predominately working as a submariner. He later joined the Civil Service to complete his service to his country. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather. In his spare time he loved being outdoors. He loved gardening and just the simple beauty of nature and the great outdoors.

 

Gerald Ray Hibbitts 63-66 On  Eternal Patrol 2/3/2023

Served On SS-483

Gerald Ray Hibbitts, fondly known as Jerry, was born December 30, 1943, in Fredericktown, Missouri. His life on this earth ended February 3, 2023, in Corpus Christi, Texas.

He was an accomplished singer who had a special love for God and Southern Gospel Music. He was a member of Heritage Baptist Church of Corpus Christi and enjoyed singing in their choir.

Jerry was a proud veteran and patriot, having served as a Submariner on the U.S.S. Sea Leopard (63-66) in the United States Navy from 1962 to 1967.

Tom E Morrell , MM2(SS) On  Eternal Patrol 1/17/2023

Served On SS-483

Tom E. Morrell, 80, of Crivitz, passed away peacefully with family by his side on January 17, 2023. He was born to the late David and Elsie (Koehler) Morrell on August 3, 1942 in Pittsburgh, PA.

Tom graduated from South Hills High School of Pittsburgh, PA in 1960. He served in the United States Navy from 1962–1966 as a mechanic on the USS 483 Sea Leopard Submarine. Tom married the former Aleta Jean Shaffer October 24, 1970 at St. Agatha’s Catholic Church in Bridgeville, PA. They moved to Crivitz in 1976 to be with the rest of their family. Tom enjoyed hunting, fishing, golfing, reading, woodworking and HO Model Trains.

Harold Joseph Ryan, RM1(SS)  On  Eternal Patrol 1/20/2023

Ships Served On SS-483 Commissioning Crew

Harold Joseph Ryan, 98, of Roxboro, died on Friday, January 20, 2023. Born in Suffolk County, he was the son of the late Michael Ryan and Mary Broderick Ryan and step-son of the late John Wesley. In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his wife, Ellen Crowley Ryan; his daughter, Teresa Ryan Tuttle; sister, Evelyn Sullivan and half-sister, Rosemarie Kennedy.

Mr. Ryan served in the United States Navy during WWII and the Korean War. He served honorably in the Navy as a radioman 1st class. He was stationed on subchasers and then submarines in WWII and Korea.

He enjoyed cooking, gardening, playing cards and football. He followed all the Boston professional sports teams. He was a proud Irishman and had an unique sense of humor. He loved spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He attended Allensville United Methodist Church.

George W. Pittenger   Eternal Patrol 1/12/2023

Served on SS-391, SS-480, SS-483, AS-15, SS-198, SS-188, SS-236, SS-383, SS-217, AS-19, DD-718, SS-328, SS-415, SS-268, SS-287

George W. Pittenger, 96, of Kelso died suddenly on the morning of Jan. 12, 2023 exactly three months after the passing of his loving wife of 71 years. He was born on a farm in Victor, New York. Being an avid hunter and expert marksman he was able to provide meat for his family and neighbors during the Depression. When WWII came, he was eager to join the Navy even though he was underage. He served in combat submarines as a torpedoman in the Pacific theater. During the war he met Bud Whittle from Castle Rock who introduced him to his future wife, Bud’s niece, Bonita. They were married April 21, 1951. George continued his Naval career in submarines where he became Chief Petty Officer, an excellent instructor and recipient of the highest medal awards for his marksmanship on the US Navy rifle team.

After 22 ½ years, he retired from the Navy in 1966 and the family moved to Castle Rock. They were proud of the house they built on Military Road that included a farm, large garden and numerous fruit trees. His second career was spent as an instrument repair technician for 15 years with the Weyerhaeuser Company. Hunting was his passion which included many mounted trophies. He retired again and moved to Kelso in 1996 with his wife to her Victorian dream house. They enjoyed many spring months vacationing and snorkeling in the Hawaiian islands.

Garth S. Greene , CWO2  On  Eternal Patrol 12/22/2022

Ships Served On SS-329, SS-483, SS-406, SS-476, SS-347

Garth Stanley Greene was born in Webster County Missouri on January 21, 1930.
Stan attended the Fordland School in the same building for 12 years and graduated from high school in 1947. He then enlisted in the US Navy and married his teenage love, Joan Loveland. They embarked on a 24-year cruise and move experience with the Navy while having 5 children along the way. Stan served on 5 submarines – USS Chub SS329, USS Sea Poacher SS405, USS Sea Leopard SS485, USS Runner SS476, and USS Cubera SS346. He also served on the submarine tender USS Orion AS18. After Stan was commissioned a Chief Warrant Officer he served on the aircraft carrier USS Wasp CVS18 as electrical division officer.

His last Navy duty was at the Boston Naval Shipyard where he served as a ship repair superintendent and de-commissioned the submarine, USS Runner, on which he had served as a crew member 6 years earlier.

During Stan’s last 6 years of sea duty he served with Task Group Alpha and Task Group Bravo in the Atlantic Fleet. These groups were tasked with locating, tracking, and, when possible, surfacing all Russian subs that were surveilling our East Coast.

During his service in the Navy, Stan cruised the Pacific Ocean, the Caribbean, the North and South Atlantic oceans, the Sargasso Sea, the Bermuda Triangle, the Mediterranean, the Aegean Sea, and the Gulf of Mexico. He transited the Panama Canal over a dozen times.

After retiring from the Navy in 1969, Stan and his family moved back to St. Louis where he took a job with the St. Louis City Public Schools teaching at the technical high school. When Stan left the St. Louis Public Schools, he was Department Head and had been advanced to Master Teacher status.

After 10 years of teaching, Stan and Joan bought a farm in Webster County, their childhood home county. They moved there once all of their children were gone from home. They started a beef cattle herd and began raising and selling feeder calves. Stan also took a part-time job with the City of Marshfield as electrical inspector. He introduced the National Electrical Code to building contractors in the area. This job morphed into Building, Plumbing, Mechanical, Electrical and Fire Code Inspector. Stan became a State-Certified fire inspector and a National BOCA code certified inspector for building and plumbing. Upon retiring from this job after 16 years, Stan and Joan moved to Springfield.

Stan was very active in Veterans organizations and Masonic bodies in Webster and Greene counties. He was a Life Member and Past Commander of Webster County Post 4101, Life Member of the Military Officers Association, DAV, and US Submarine Veterans, Inc.

Eugene L. Prohl  On  Eternal Patrol 12/6/2022

Ships Served On SS-338, SS-307, SS-421, SS-483

He graduated from Hot Springs High School and served in the U.S. Navy during the Korean Conflict aboard the submarines USS Carp and USS Tilefish. He then graduated from Arkansas Tech University (Arkansas Polytechnic College at the time) with a degree in Music Education and taught band for eight years in Waldron, Murfreesboro, and Newport, AR. When a teacher’s salary wasn’t enough to support a family, he joined IBM and retired as a Program Support Representative after 29 years.

He was a member of Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in North Little Rock where he served as an usher for over 40 years.

He was a member of the North Little Rock Community Concert Band (playing flute and serving on the Board of Directors), USSVI Razorback Submarine Base, and Holland Club.

Charles William Atwell, 55-57 Eternal Patrol 10/14/2022

Served on CA-148, SS-483

Korean War era Submarine Veteran, Charles William Atwell “Bill” of Stevensville, MD, passed away on October 14, 2022. He was 88 years old.
Bill was born October 27, 1933 in Washington DC, the middle son to the late Carolyn Louise La Dow and Hugh Enfield Atwell.
Bill is survived by his brother, Rick Atwell, of Sarasota, FL and niece, Shay McElroy, of Dallas, TX.
Bill graduated from Northwestern High School in Adelphi, MD.
Bill took his first airplane ride in 1951, This flight only lasted 10 minutes, but so inspired him that he immediately purchased a 50-cent logbook and went back up for his first lesson. Soloing after seven hours, Bill went on to qualify for his Private Certificate in 1952.
A year later he joined the Navy and spent a year on the Battleship USS Newport News. He then changed his mind and went directly to the bottom in the submarine USS Sea Leopard for the next three years. He continued to fly extensively in the Norfolk and Suffolk area and made a few flights from St. Thomas in the Virgin Islands.
Four years later Bill returned to Hyattsville, MD and civilian life. After attending Montgomery Jr. College for two years, he went on to further his studies at the University of MD. After working awhile at the family tradition of cabinet making, Bill finally decided on a position with the Trailways Bus Company and stayed with them for 20 years. He had many adventures taking the Boy Scouts to their jamboree out West, the Great American Car Race, taking trips to the ski slopes in New Hampshire and he even transported the Rolling Stones when they performed in Washington DC.
On June 10, 1963, Bill and Barbara Ann McMahon married in Prince George’s County. They were blissfully wed for 55 years until Barbara’s passing in 2018.
As well, in 1963 that love of flying finally came back. He bought his first airplane, a Piper PA-12. After nine months of hard work rebuilding this plane in his parents’ basement, he finally took to the air again. Bill had found a new passion, aircraft restoration. Selling the Piper PA-12, Bill drove to Ohio to check out a Piper J-3 in need of his talents. This new project kept him occupied until 1968, when he hears about a Piper J-5 in need of some TLC. Selling his Paper J-3, Bill goes off to the garage once more. The Piper J-5, after more than a year of work, is ready to fly. An avid flier as well as a rebuilder, Bill prefers his long cross-country trips without radio gear. Bill and Barbara took many trips in that Piper J-5 all over the country.
In 1977 Bill found a brochure about the Kentmorr Airstrip and bought some property there. The first thing he bought to start the construction of his home was his backhoe. Over the next two years, he completed construction of his home and he and Barbara were able to move into their new home in 1979. Over the years, Bill became known as “Backhoe Bill” and was always ready to help out with anything he could using his backhoehe put in septic systems, plowed out driveways in the winter, planted palm trees at Kentmorr Restaurant, got friends out of the ditch and many other projects over the years.
Bill was a master woodworker refurbishing most of the wooden furniture in his home, putting down the hardwood floors in his home and keeping them polished, ruching seats on chairs with perfection, an artist with oil paints and charcoals with most of his paintings and drawings displayed in his home.
In recent years, Bill participated in the Elks Lodge Chili Cookoff many times being a winner most of the time. He was always looking for the hottest hot sauce to add to his chili.
Over the years, Bill was a member of the VFW Post 7464 in Grasonville, American Legion Post 278 in Stevensville and most recently the Elks Lodge in Stevensville.

Herman Bushman Capt, 63-65 Eternal Patrol 6/21/2022

Served on SS-483 (Commanding Officer), SS-485, SS-425

Captain Herman Joseph Bushman Jr., USN Retired, died peacefully surrounded by loved ones on June 21, 2022. A career Navy submariner, he was an extraordinary person, husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend who will be forever missed. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 55 years, Janet (O’Hagan), daughters Katherine and Mary Martha, and his siblings Marion Casey, Ione Kaminski, Rita Scovronske, Sr. Irene Bushman, Elizabeth McMullen, Lorraine Bushman, Robert Bushman, Sr., and Thomas Bushman, Sr. Herman was born in Appleton, Wisconsin February 4, 1925, to the late Herman (Sr.) and Barbara (Gruentzel) Bushman.

He entered the US Naval Academy in 1945 where he was QB for the undefeated 150 lb. football team. Following graduation from the Academy in 1949, he served on the USS Maddox during the Korean War and later attended the Navy Submarine School in New London Connecticut to join the Silent Service. In 1955, he returned to the Academy for two years as an instructor and as an assistant football coach. Herman met his beloved Janet while stationed in San Diego. They were married in December 1958 and together, with a growing family, they embraced Navy life and successive assignments across the country and overseas. Subsequent assignments included Commanding Officer of the USS Sea Leopard, Executive Officer of USS Sperry, and Command of Submarine Division 33. His last assignment was with the Joint Chiefs of Staff in Washington D.C. where he worked with UN and NATO delegations on the Law of the Sea and nuclear non-proliferation treaties. He retired from the Navy in 1972. Following retirement, he joined his brothers’ lumber business which led to decades long involvement with the Southern York County Corporation and Stewartstown Railroad. In addition, he remained active as a consultant for international affairs and national security efforts. Family and faith were Herman’s foundations.

Henry Benedict Franz Jr., RM3(SS) 53-55 Eternal Patrol 6/5/2022

Served on SS-483, SS-404

Henry Benedict Franz, 91, of Slippery Rock, passed away unexpectedly Sunday, June 5, 2022, in St. Petersburg, Fla. He was active until the day he left us, and being 91 didn’t slow him down much.
He was born March 21, 1931, in Beechview, Pa., to Henry J. and Genevieve (Lavelle) Franz. He was preceded in death by his immediate family, which included Geneva Stumpf, Richard Franz and his parents.
Anyone who knew him knows that he loved to tell a (sometimes long-winded) story or crack a joke. He never knew a stranger. They were just someone that he hadn’t met yet. He also enjoyed wintering in Florida, staying in touch with friends on Facebook and texting with family.
He was a Korean War veteran and very proud of his submarine service, mainly stationed aboard the USS Sea Leopard (SS-483) where he was an RM3.
He loved singing and had a very good voice. As a younger man, he sang in musicals with the Pittsburgh Civic Light Opera.
He was a Duquesne University graduate and also worked there as their director of purchasing. Before that, he was a purchasing agent at Slippery Rock University.
Traveling the U.S. and Canada was also one of his joys. He also enjoyed watching and rooting for the Pittsburgh Steelers.
He was a member of St. Peter Catholic Church in Slippery Rock.

Arthur B. Wilkirson Jr RM2(SS)  48-49 Eternal Patrol May 29, 2022

Served on SS-483, SS-404

Qualified in submarines on the USS Sea Leopard (SS-483) in 1949 and was a RM2(SS) when he left the Navy.
Tyler, Texas – “Art” Wilkirson, age 93 passed away on Sunday, May 29, 2022 in Tyler, Texas. Born in Denton, TX on Mothers Day, May 12, 1929, he was the only child of Madeline “Mattie” Rose Davis and Arthur B. Wilkirson.

Art attended Denton Public Schools, graduating in 1946. He attended North Texas State Teachers College (now the University of North Texas) for 2 years before enlisting in the U.S.Navy. His request was granted and after boot camp in San Diego, CA, he attended submarine school in New London, CT, radio school in Norfolk, VA, and sonar school in Key West, FL before being assigned to the USS Sea Leopard (SS483) in Key West, FL. His duties included patrols in the Gulf of Mexico, south Caribbean, eastern seaboard to Iceland and then a “goodwill” trip to Toulan, France and Naples, Italy. After his service, he was honorably discharged in June 1952, at New London, CT. He then returned to North Texas and received his BS degree in industrial arts in 1955.

Art joined Cities Service Oil Co. in Bartlesville, OK as a geophysical draftsman for 3 months before starting a long and productive career as a landman. In 1959, Art transferred to Jackson, MS to acquire oil and gas leases in the southern region. After a breakup of the Bell System in the early 1980’s, Art joined AT&T and assisted others on acquiring right of way for the first major fiber optic trunk line from Miami, FL to Chicago, IL. After this completion, he remained in right of way either for fiber optics major pipelines or overhead power lines in nearly all states east of the MS.

Art loved the outdoors, was an avid sportsman proficient in hunting and fishing and a 25+ year member of 10 Point Hunting Club in Issaquena County, MS. He excelled in the game of golf and enjoyed the beach, gardening and bird watching. He faithfully served many organizations throughout his life, namely the residential board of Holy Angels in Shreveport, LA, a school for God’s special children and where his daughter resides, MS Association of Petroleum Landmen, American Association of Petroleum Landmen (CPL564), Ducks Unlimited, and The Audubon Society. A former trustee of Galloway Memorial UMC in Jackson, MS, he was a member of Green Acres Baptist Church and a member of the David Cannon Sunday School Class.

Jerry B. Garriott , TM3(SS) 54-54 Eternal Patrol: 3/15/2022

Served on SS-483

Gerald (Jerry) Garriott passed March 15, 2022 from complications of heart disease. Jerry was born March 13, 1935 in Casper, Wyoming to Freeman and Virginia Garriott. He was brought to the state of Oregon, which he learned to love in 1937, where he remained until he died.

Jerry attended school in Warrenton, Oregon until he joined the Navy in 1952 at the age of 17. He spent his 4-year hitch in the Navy aboard the submarine U.S.S. Sea Leopard SS483. After his discharge in 1956, he returned to Eugene for the remainder of his life.

In 1956, Jerry took a job in a plywood mill where he was an old fashioned log roller. In 1959, he became a member of the Eugene Fire Department. He worked as a firefighter for 35 years, and rose to the rank of District Chief.

In his earlier years, Jerry had many interests. He was a pilot, and member of the Creswell Sky-Diving Club, the original manager of Eugene Municipal Federal Credit Union, which is now Pacific Cascade Credit Union. Jerry also had a lifelong interest in music. After many years of trying to learn the clarinet, and discovering he had no talent for it, he decided his contribution to music would be to listen and enjoy others. He played some golf at a “less than mediocre level,” but regardless, he still enjoyed the people and the playing. He joined the Shadow Hills Country Club in 1994 after retiring.

On April 22, 1959, he married Jan Vlasak, the love of his life. Their marriage lasted 63 years. They had two sons, Kelly and Dan. Jerry was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Mike, who was 12 years his junior. He is survived by his wife Jan, sons Kelly and Dan, and two grandsons, Finn and Sebastien, who were the absolute highlight of his life.

Timothy D. Butts, TM3(SS) 63-64 Eternal Patrol: 2/16/2022

Served on SS-483

Tim finished his final round and left the course when he quietly passed on Wednesday morning. An avid golfer and long-time member of Ashland Country Club, Tim enjoyed life surrounded by his family and numerous friends. Bettie Butts, his childhood sweetheart and wife of fifty-five years, joined Tim for his many adventures that included golf, travel, grilling, watching volleyball, and music, especially drumming. Among Tim’s greatest joys was raising his daughter Brenda. Later in life Tim delighted in his time with his granddaughters Catie and Megan, and eventually great-granddaughters Ansley, Adelynn, and Avery.

Born to Charles and Catherine Butts of Chester, Nebraska, Tim’s family moved to Lincoln where he was raised and attended University High (Class of 61). He was a proud veteran of the U.S. Navy and the Nuclear Submarine Service. After the Navy, Tim settled in Lincoln where he had a long and successful career in the HVAC industry as a member of the Plumbers and Pipefitters Union.

Royce Vernon Simpson, 56-58 Eternal Patrol: 2/6/2022

Served on SS-315, SS-214, SS-483, SS-565, DLG-29, DD-826, LST-1180

John was born August 4, 1941 in Kewanee. He graduated in 1955 from Visitation Catholic School and in 1959 from Kewanee High school after which he enlisted in the U.S. Navy. Shortly after his enlistment he was awarded a full Navy 4-year scholarship to the University of Notre Dame in South Bend, IN. Upon his graduation from Notre Dame in 1964 he was commissioned as an Ensign in the U.S. Navy.

In his 24-years in the Navy he served on four submarinesSea Lion, Grouper, Sea Leopard and Wahoo. He was promoted to Lieutenant Commander and served as the Navigator on the Cruiser Jouett, then Executive Officer of the Destroyer Agerholm. Achieving the rank of Commander, he was assigned as the Captain of the USS Manitowoc (LST-1180) which was the highlight of his naval career. Under the orders of President Ronald Reagan John was in command of his embarked Company of the U.S. Marines. That force formed the amphibious assault into the island of Grenada putting down the Soviet backed Cuban force that had overtaken the island. After Grenada the Manitowoc streamed to the Mediterranean Sea off the coast of Beirut, Lebanon and landed helos transporting evacuees from the United States Embassy. His naval service ended at Newport, RI, serving as the Station Commander. He retired from the U.S. Navy in December of 1986.

During his service in Newport, RI he attended Bryant University in Providence, RI achieving a Master’s in Public Administration. He used that education to serve as a municipal manager in Ohio, Illinois (including Kewanee) and Wisconsin.

USN Retired in 1987 as CDR

John Dennis Kolata LT  67-69  Eternal Patrol January 27, 2022

Served on SS-315, SS-214, SS-483, SS-565, DLG-29, DD-826, LST-1180

John was born August 4, 1941 in Kewanee. He graduated in 1955 from Visitation Catholic School and in 1959 from Kewanee High school after which he enlisted in the U.S. Navy. Shortly after his enlistment he was awarded a full Navy 4-year scholarship to the University of Notre Dame in South Bend, IN. Upon his graduation from Notre Dame in 1964 he was commissioned as an Ensign in the U.S. Navy.

In his 24-years in the Navy he served on four submarines Sea Lion, Grouper, Sea Leopard and Wahoo. He was promoted to Lieutenant Commander and served as the Navigator on the Cruiser Jouett, then Executive Officer of the Destroyer Agerholm. Achieving the rank of Commander, he was assigned as the Captain of the USS Manitowoc (LST-1180) which was the highlight of his naval career. Under the orders of President Ronald Reagan John was in command of his embarked Company of the U.S. Marines. That force formed the amphibious assault into the island of Grenada putting down the Soviet backed Cuban force that had overtaken the island. After Grenada the Manitowoc streamed to the Mediterranean Sea off the coast of Beirut, Lebanon and landed helos transporting evacuees from the United States Embassy. His naval service ended at Newport, RI, serving as the Station Commander. He retired from the U.S. Navy in December of 1986.

During his service in Newport, RI he attended Bryant University in Providence, RI achieving a Master’s in Public Administration. He used that education to serve as a municipal manager in Ohio, Illinois (including Kewanee) and Wisconsin.

USN Retired in 1987 as CDR

Charles S. Roberts, Jr.  TMC(SS) 52-60  Eternal Patrol December 23, 2021

Served on SS-173, SS-349, SS-348, SS-483, SS-343, SSBN-610

Born: 07/24/1929

Qualified in submarines on the USS Diodon (SS-349) in 1949 and was a TMC(SS) when he left the Navy.

USN Retired in 1966.

Richard W. Hahn QMC(SS) 67-68  Eternal Patrol November 26, 2021

No Photo available

Served on SSBN-641, SS-483, SS-522, SSBN-609

Cold War Submarine Veteran, Richard W Hahn June 8 1933 November 26 2021 (age 88)
Chief USN (Ret) Richard W Hahn, passed away on Friday morning, November 26. Richard served 23 years in the Navy. He served on Destroyers, Diesel and Nuclear Submarines. He was active in the AMVETS and American Legion. He leaves behind a son, a daughter, 5 Grandchildren and many Great-grandchildren.

Born on June 8 1933

Blair F. Munyan, FTSN(SS) 66-68  Eternal Patrol November 14, 2021

Served onSS-483, SS-312, SS-303

Cold War Submarine Veteran, Blair F. Munyan, “The Captain,” age 74, of Noank, passed away Sunday, Nov. 14, 2021, at Lawrence + Memorial Hospital in New London. Blair was born in Staten Island, N.Y., July 18, 1947, the son of the late Paul and Barbara Blair Munyan. He married Alice Whitford Sept. 8, 1973, in Noank.

Blair served in the U. S. Navy on board the diesel submarine Sea Leopard during the Vietnam Warand he was awarded the Purple Heart medal. He then went to work for the H. R. Hillery Company in Groton, retiring after 45 years as a senior design engineer.

Besides his wife Alice, he is survived by his beloved pocket beagle, Saffron. Blair loved living in Noank, loved his family and friends, loved boating, loved traveling, loved a good meal, loved his gin and tonic; and we all loved Blair – his jokes and his Blarisms.

Milton L. Hiuse, SO2(SS) 51-52  Eternal Patrol October 24, 2021

Served onSS-483, SS-312, SS-303

Korean War era Submarine Veteran, Milton L. House, 91, son of Guy and Elfrieda House, born March 6, 1930, passed away peacefully Sunday, Oct. 24, 2021. Milton and his wife Ruth (Updegraff, from Williamsport) were residents of Lewisburg and Mifflinburg since 1997. Ruth “Boots” passed away 7 years ago.

From 1944 to 1947, Milton, his parents, and brothers ran a small dairy farm not far from the town of Milton. Dad joined the Navy the day he graduated Milton High School. He became a submarine sonar specialist and traveled the world aboard a diesel sub. In 1952, he met Boots, who at the time was studying nursing at Temple University, and the two married. Boots gave birth to their first child while Milt was out in the submarine during a storm. Dad was honorably discharged at the end of his 4-year term, and then enrolled at Penn State. He received a bachelor’s degree in Dairy Science in 1958.

Together, Milt and Boots lived life to the fullest. Along with their growing family, they made homes and befriended people all across the eastern seaboard and the midwest. Homes included Bad Axe, Michigan; Moorhead, Minnesota; Salisbury, Maryland; Caribou, Maine; Tecumseh, Nebraska; Worthington, Minnesota; Sumter, South Carolina, and Naperville Illinois. Dad worked for Fairmont Foods, Birdseye, and Campbell Soup. Over a period of 27 years, he served as a plant manager with Campbell Soup at four different food processing plants in four different states.

Milton’s passions included wilderness adventures, boating, woodworking, travel, and reading. Above all, dad was a people person. He loved directing people in the plants that he ran. He loved engaging in conversation and sharing his stories. Right up to his last few weeks, he was still making people laugh.

John Stanford, IC2(SS) 55-58  Eternal Patrol October 15, 2021

Served on SS-483, SSN-575, SSBN-618, SSBN-622, CV-64, AD-19

John joined the US Navy in January 1955, and after boot camp and A school, attended Submarine School in New London, CT.
Served on four submarines ( USS Sea Leopard ( SS 483 ), USS Seawolf ( SSN575 ), USS Thomas Jefferson ( SSBN 618 ), and USS James Monroe ( SSBN 623 ).
Attended the 7th class of Nuclear power school in 1958,
Was advanced to CPO in May 1965, and received his commission to Warrant Officer in 1958.
Served on board USS Constellation ( CVA 64 ) from 1968 – 1971. Participated in mine clearing in Vietnam 1972 – 1974.Retired from the Navy as a CWO 3 after 22 years. After retiring from the Navy in 1976, worked for Square D Company as a field service technician and retired in 1998 at age 62. Joined United States Submarine Veterans, Inc (USSVI) in 2002.  Past National Awards Chairman, National Awards Committee Chairman.

Qualified in submarines on the USS Sea Leopard (SS-483) in 1958.

John Clarence Walker, Jr  EM2(SS) 54-54  Eternal Patrol October 8, 2021

No Photo available

Served on SS-483, SS-228, SS-490, SS-486, SSBN-658, SSBN-623, SSN-667

John Clarence Walker, Jr of Centreville, MD passed away peacefully on October 8, 2021 at Compass Regional Hospice in Centreville, MD. He was 87.

Born on November 5, 1933 in Baltimore, MD he was the son of the late John Clarence Walker, Sr and Pauline Cutlip Walker. He served in the United States Navy on the USS Sea Leopard submarine. He graduated from Johns Hopkins with a degree in Electrical Engineering. He loved playing and later watching sports.

Peter Clemens, EM3(SS) 45-47  Eternal Patrol September 27, 2021

No Photo available

Served on SS-483, SS-228, SS-490, SS-486, SSBN-658, SSBN-623, SSN-667

Qualified in submarines on the USS Corsair (SS-435) in 1947 and was a EM3(SS) when he left the Navy.

William A. Mulvenna, QMC(SS) 53-56  Eternal Patrol September 23, 2021

Served on SS-483, SS-228, SS-490, SS-486, SSBN-658, SSBN-623, SSN-667

Qualified in submarines on the USS Sea Leopard (SS-483) in 1954 and was a QMC(SS) when he left the Navy..

 

Adam Dijkman, EM3(SS) 60-61  Eternal Patrol September 21, 2021

No Photo available

Served on SS-483, SS-228, SS-490, SS-486, SSBN-658, SSBN-623, SSN-667

Qualified in submarines on the USS Sea Leopard (SS-483) in 1961 and was a STSC(SS) when he left the Navy. Adam was born January 29, 1940.

 

Henry Joseph Minot 65-67 HMC   Eternal Patrol  7/23/2021

Served on: SS-483

Cold War Submarine Veteran, Henry Joseph Minot, Born Feb. 26, 1932 in Lynn MA and passed away July 23, 2021 in Merritt Island FL due to COVID at the age of 89.

His parents Leopold Minot and Anna Tofpieniec Minot emigrated from Poland. He had one brother, John.

He joined the Navy at 17 years old and served on ships, submarines, and in hospitals. He was in charge of the chemistry laboratory in Charleston’s Naval Hospital and participated in research work at the Naval Radiological Defense Laboratory in San Francisco. He retired with 20 years of service in 1969 as a Chief Hospital Corpsman and moved to Rockledge, FL.

Henry married and had four children: Deborah, David, Donald, and Henry Jr. Then through a second marriage (Barbara) he gained two (step) daughters: Patricia and Janet. After Barbara’s passing, he married again (Mary). After 9 years he was widowed again.

Robert Edwin “Bob” Todd, FN 62-62 Eternal Patrol 7/22/2021

Served on: SS-483, SSBN-618

Cold War Submarine Veteran, Robert Edwin “Bob” Todd, age 83, of Manassas, Virginia, passed away on July 22, 2021 at Prince William Medical Center in Manassas.
Bob was born Sept 2, 1937 in Cokeville, PA, the son of Robert Roscoe Todd and Margaret Shontz Todd.
He graduated from Conneaut Lake High School in 1955 and earned his BS degree in Mechanical Engineering from Virginia Tech in Blacksburg, VA.
Bob was a veteran of the U.S. Navy having served aboard the submarines USS Sea Leopard and the USS Thomas Jefferson. He spent 45 years working at Newport News Shipbuilding and Drydocking Company helping design many ships including the USS Thomas Jefferson, on which he later served for several years.
He is survived by his wife of 59 years, Dorothy Toddsisters Joyce (Scott) Ladner of Conneaut Lake.
His hobbies included fishing, camping, gardening and genealogy. Bob was a member of the SAR, Sons of the American Revolution.

Cleve Edgar Loman Jr. CAPT 71-72 Eternal Patrol 7/17/2021Served on: SS-483, SSBN-618

Served on: DD-874, SS-421, SSBN-610, SS-481, SS-315, SS-483

Cold War Submarine Veteran, Captain Cleve Edgar Loman Jr. USN (Ret) had three great loves in his life – his family, the Navy and the Naval Academy (especially the Class of 1957). Cleve passed away July 17, 2021, after a brief hospital stay. He was a resident of The Fairfax at Belvoir Woods, Va., with his wife, Joe Anne.

Cleve was a steadfast, principled military man, but also a loving husband, dad and granddad and a decent, compassionate, sometimes hilarious man.

Cleve was born July 29, 1933, in Salisbury, N.C. He graduated from Andrew Lewis High School in Salem, Va., in 1951. Cleve attended Roanoke College and Norfolk Division of William & Mary-VPI while serving in the U.S. Naval Reserve, before attending the Naval Academy, from which he graduated in 1957 as a member of First Company.

Cleve was blessed to find love and marriage not once, but three times. He married Janet Brown of Lexington, N.C., in June of 1957. They had three sons: Michael (USNA Class 1980), James “Skip” and Daniel. Janet died in 1991.

With three grown, married sons, Cleve thought his child-rearing days were behind him. But fate had other plans. In 1992, Cleve fell in love and married Marianne Renjilian of Rockville, Md., the mother of a young son, Christopher. Marianne also had two grown children, Timothy and Julia. Marianne died in 2015. In 2016, a letter of condolence reconnected Cleve with his high school sweetheart, also widowed. Their love rekindled, and at age 83, Cleve married Joe Anne Ward of Trinity, N.C., in 2017.

Cleve began his Naval career on the USS Duncan (DDR-874) before entering Submarine School in 1959. He was a member of the commissioning crew of the atomic submarine Thomas A. Edison and also served on the submarines Trutta, Requin and Sea Lion before taking command of the USS Sea Leopard.

His final tour was as commanding officer of U.S. Naval Communications Station, Roosevelt Roads, Puerto Rico, from which he retired in 1984.

When he retired from the Navy, Cleve did not retire from the sea. He and Janet spent a number of years living on their 43-foot sloop, Casita, cruising the Caribbean Sea and the Florida Keys. Travel – and great food – remained a passion for him throughout his life. Cleve was an avid golfer and a charter member of the USNA’57 Golf Group in the Washington area.

Philip Gordon Rigby, Sr., RMC  52-53 Eternal Patrol 7/5/2021

Served on: SS-319, SS-485, SS-483, SS-481

Korean War era Submarine Veteran, Philip Gordon Rigby, Sr. of Oak Hill, FL died on Monday, July 5, 2021, at home with his family at his side. He was 96 years old.

Born December 18, 1924, in Beverly, MA, he was the son of the late Philip Augustus and Anna Gordon Rigby. Phil grew up in Danvers, MA in a close-knit extended family. On December 19, 1941, at age 17, he enlisted in the Navy and was inducted at the Boston Naval Yard on January 3, 1942. During WW II he served in the Armed Guard as a radio operator on merchant vessels MV St. James, SS Cheribusco, and SS Gulfcrest. He was assigned to the Destroyer USS Mayrant (DD-402) where he served in the Atlantic, Caribbean, Mediterranean, and Pacific Theaters. Following the war Phil served on the ice breaker USS Edisto (AGB-2) during the Nanook II expedition, and the USS Warrenton (DD-843). In 1950, during the Korean War, he entered the submarine service where he earned his Dolphins, serving on the USS Becuna (SS319), USS Sirago (SS485), USS Sea Leopard (SS483) and USS Requin (SS481). He obtained the rank of Chief Petty Officer during his naval career.

For his service to his country, Phil was awarded the following medals: The Merchant MarineEuropean, Africa and Middle Eastern Campaign (3 stars)American Campaign; Asiatic, Pacific Campaign (1 star); National Defense; World War II Victory; and Good Conduct.

Phil returned to civilian life in 1954 and went to work in communications for the Department of Defense. In his 37-year-career with the federal government, he participated in the evolution from Morse Code to computer communications. At the time of his retirement in 1978, he was a site manager for the Military Traffic Management Command.

Phil married Naomi Hyndshaw in Mount Rainer, MD on February 18, 1950. Together they raised eight children in homes in Fairfax, VA, and Fort Washington, MD, eventually retiring to a home in La Plata, MD. Phil was a loving husband for 65 years, until Naomi’s death in 2015. Two years later he moved to Florida to live with his youngest son and wife, Tim and Trina. Phil truly enjoyed and was always very proud of his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. An avid model builder, the wooden sailing vessels that he constructed over the years were of such fine detail and craftsmanship that one was even on display at the Washington, DC Naval Yard. He was an active member of the American Legion, VFW, and Knights of Columbus until his death.

Thomas Edgar Snowdy, ETC  63-64 Eternal Patrol 6/26/2021

Served on: SSN-588, SSN-649, SSN-661, SS-483, SSN-653, SSN-660

Cold War Submarine Veteran, Thomas Edgar Snowdy, Sr., 81, of Colonial Heights, VA went to rest in the Lord on Saturday, June 26, 2021. Thomas enlisted in the Navy on 09 November 1961, He qualified for submarine service and served on the following subs: USS Sea Leopard (SS 843), USS Scamp (SSN 588), USS Ray (SSN 653), USS Sand Lance (SSN 660), USS Sunfish (SSN 649), and USS Lapon (SSN 661). After his service in the Navy Tom worked for various contractors supporting submarine retrofit. He then worked for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Tom enjoyed watching Nascar and sports. Spending time with his children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren brought him the greatest joy. Tom is cherished by all who were blessed to be a part of his live. He leaves a legacy of love, firmly transplanted from his heart to ours. He was preceded in death by his loving wife of 47 years, Ruth Carol Bryant Snowdy and his parents, Edgar W. Snowdy and Cecilia V. Snowdy, and brother James C. Snowdy.

Philip J. Tucciarone, MOMMFN 45-46 Eternal Patrol 6/19/2021

Served on: SS-206, SS-483

WWII Submarine Veteran, Phillip John Tucciarone, 96, passed away at home on June 19. Phillip was called to Heaven by his wife, Lydia, on what would have been their 74th Wedding Anniversary.

A lifelong Stamford resident, son of the late Maria Mallozzi and Giovanni Tucciarone, he was born May 30, 1925.

Upon graduation from JM Wright Technical School, Phil enlisted in the U S Navy serving in the South Pacific from 1943 – 1946 as a Submarine Mechanic aboard the USS Gar, the USS Sea Leopard and the USS Orion.

After his Honorable Discharge, Phil met and married Lydia Rossi in 1947 and built a life together until her death in 1984.

Phil worked as a mechanic for Packard and Cadillac dealers as well as Elm Sales and Service in Stamford. In the early 1960s he joined his father in the family landscaping business and attended Rutgers Turf School and was a member of the Connecticut Grounds Keepers Association. He worked in the family landscaping business alongside his son, John, until Phil’s retirement in 1999.

Phil was a Charter Member of the Stamford Racing Pigeon Club for 70+ years. His passion was breeding, training and racing homing pigeons.

Phil also began to take Ballroom Dancing lessons in 1989 and learned well enough to help teach beginners. He made many friends through Ballroom Magic.

Phil was a lifelong Yankees Fan and loved spending time in his garden growing the BEST tomatoes the family ate. He shared his bounty with friends and family. He modeled a strong work ethic, loyalty and a lifelong quest for knowledge and he met each challenge with strength and determination.

Michael R. Swift, Sr., EN2  Eternal Patrol 6/6/2021

Severed on SS-483

Cold War Submarine Veteran

Michael was born on December 6, 1938, to the late John “Jack” Swift and the late Kathryn DelConte in Kenosha, WI. Mike graduated from Mary D. Bradford High School in 1956. After graduation he proudly served in the United States Navy until his honorable discharge in1962. During his time in the Navy, he was a Submariner on the USS Sea Leopard. After his active duty, he continued to serve in the US Navy Reserve for an additional two years.

When Mike returned to Kenosha after his service to his country, he owned a landscaping business. After that he worked as a long shore-man and operations manager at the Port of Kenosha for twenty-five years.

During that time, he met Jeannine K. Fontaine and they were eventually married. During their marriage, they were blessed with two beautiful children, Michelle and Michael.

Richard Thomas Robinson, ETN3  Eternal Patrol 5/18/2021

Severed on SS-483, SSBN-629

Cold War Submarine Veteran Richard T. Robinson, 78 of Marion Montana died Tuesday May 18th 2021 at home with his wife by his side.

Richard was born to Patrick H. Robinson VII & Doris E. Robinson (Allison) August 19, 1942 in Fremont, Michigan. After high school graduation he joined the U.S. Navy where he completed Submarine School and continued to be trained as an Electronic Technician. He became a crew member on the USS Sea Leopard, a diesel submarine stationed in the Atlantic. He attended Nuclear Submarine School and was then stationed in Pearl Harbor where he was assigned to the USS Daniel Boone nuclear FBM submarine as a Reactor Operator. He served close to eight years then continued his electronics career as a Computer Engineer. In the 1990’s, he became a docent in the Blacksmith shop at the Gold Discovery Site near Auburn, California. He went from fixing tiny little parts to beating iron amazing.

Richard was an avid fisherman, hunter, blacksmith and outdoors man. His lifestyle in Montana capped off all the love he had for the outdoor adventure.

Parkinson’s struck Richard in 2010. He was able to continue his outdoor activities and blacksmithing until 2018 when the disease would no longer let him live the life he so wanted and loved.

Born on August 19, 1942 – Entered into Eternal Patrol on May 18th 2021.

Richard D. McCannes, RM3 55-58 Eternal Patrol 4/9/2021

Severed on SS-483, SS-282, SS-368, SSBN-633, SSN-613

Cold War Submarine Veteran, Richard D. McCannes, 85, peacefully went to be with the Lord on Friday, April 9, 2021. He was born June 10, 1935 in Jackson, Michigan to the late Victor and Gladys McCannes Haughie. He was the stepson of the late William Haughie. Richard has been a resident of Mechanicsburg for the past 10 years.

He was retired from the US Navy where he proudly served for 20 years, part of which time was stationed in Hawaii on submarine duty. His sub, the USS Flasher, travelled to several countries on secret missions during treacherous times. Thankfully, he and his crew returned home safely each time.

Mac qualified in submarines on the USS Sea Leopard (SS-483) in 1956 and was a RMC(SS) when he left the Navy.

Prior to retirement, he transferred to Groton CT, Submarine Base, and he and his wife took up residence in North Stonington, CT for 40 years. During that time, he was employed by Sonalysts, Inc. and General Dynamics, Submarine Division, lending his expertise in electronics. They moved to Mechanicsburg, PA 10 years ago to be near family. Richard was loved by his entire family and his legacy will live on forever. He possessed a genuine love of God which came from deep within him. He was a member of Immanuel Christian & Missionary Alliance Church for 8 years and served as Trustee and operated the sound booth in the evening. Richard is survived by his loving wife of 51 years, Connie (Calzaretta) McCannesa daughter Christine Pruden (David)3 grandchildren, Robert Noon (Kelli), Amanda Burzynski, and Nichole Noon; 5 great-grandchildren and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.

John Henery Lehman, ETR1 51-52 Eternal Patrol 3/5/2021

Served on SS-220, SS-483

WWII Submarine Veteran, John H. Lehman passed away Friday, March 5, 2021 at his home.

He was born north of Hagerstown, and graduated from Hagerstown High School and Bliss Electrical School.

He joined the Navy, serving as the first radar operator on the Medal of Honor submarine, the USS Barb under Capt. Eugene Fluckey. He was the last known survivor of the WWII crew.

He attended Wabash College, Crawfordsville, IN, but was called out for the Korean Conflict

John worked for the C & P Telephone Co. (now Verizon) for 43 years.

In June, 1960, John married Anne Pearce, adopting her children Michael and Judith, who were joined by son William in May 1961.

John was International President of the Philanthropic Knights of the Round He sailed across the Atlantic from the Chesapeake to Bermuda, then the Azores and Ireland in 1983. Four years later they brought the boat home from Gibraltar by way of the Canaries to Grenada, later from there to the Chesapeake Bay.

John sang with the C & P and Mercersburg choruses. He volunteered at the Chambersburg Historical Society.

Allen B. Higginbotham , CAPT 56-58  Eternal Patrol 1/5/2021

Served on CA-134, DD-775, SS-483, SSR-572, SS-272, SS-481, DLG-27, FF-1075

Cold War Submarine Veteran, CAPT Allen B. Higginbotham, USN (Retired), of Sarasota, died on January 5, 2021. He was 91 years old. Allen was born in Portsmouth, Ohio on December 9, 1929 to Chloe Adair and John Crockett Higginbotham. He was reared on Horse Creek, near Iaeger, West Virginia. After graduation from Welch High School, he attended Duke University for two years before entering the US Naval Academy in 1949.
Upon graduation from Annapolis in 1953, CAPT Higginbotham commenced a predominantly sea-going career, including service in and command of destroyers, cruisers, and submarines. He commanded the submarine REQUIN (SS-481) from 1966 to 1968. SS REQUIN is on permanent display at the Carnegie Science Center in Pittsburg, PA.
In 1970, CAPT Higginbotham commissioned the frigate USS TRIPPE (FF-1075), which he commanded until 1972. Further naval service included direction of Anti-Submarine Warfare activities for the Sixth Fleet, commander of two destroyer squadrons, and service as Chief of Staff and Deputy to Commander Surface Forces, US Atlantic Fleet. CAPT Higginbotham served three Pentagon tours, and was awarded two Legions of Merit by the Secretary of the Navy and the Meritorious Service Medal by the Chief of Naval Operations.
After retiring from the Navy in 1982, CAPT Higginbotham worked at United Technologies as the Director of the Undersea Warfare Program Office, and at Vitro Corporation as the Director of Navy Business Development.
CAPT Higginbotham and his wife Linda (née Wood, of Annapolis, MD) were married in 1954. After a long military service career involving many relocations and the raising of four children, they retired to Sarasota, Florida in 1993. CAPT Higginbotham spent much of his retirement time in service to others, including Habit for Humanity, and on mission teams to Honduras to establish and support an eye clinic for the needy. In Sarasota, Allen and Linda founded Time Tithers, an organization of individuals who devote at least ten percent of their free time to doing the Lord’s work.

John Conrad Lammers 48-49  Eternal Patrol 1/3/2021

Served on SS-483, SS-489, SS-298, SS-225

John (Jack) Conrad Lammers, age 90, of Warrington, PA, formerly of Gaithersburg, MD, passed away suddenly due to a heart attack on Sunday, January 3, 2021.
He was born February 11, 1930 in Chester, PA to Conrad John and Florence (Ries) Lammers.
Jack served in the U.S. Navy from 1947-1956 as a cook, primarily on submarines and aboard the USS Williamsburg with his final assignment being Camp David, serving President Eisenhower. He attained the rank of Chief Petty Officer.
In 1956 he graduated from the Montgomery County Police Academy. As he moved through the ranks, working in every station throughout the county, he eventually attained the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. He retired in November 1976 as Acting Chief of Police. Throughout those many years, he helped many people, made many lifelong friends and was greatly respected by all. Jack was known for his great smile, sarcastic and dry sense of humor, his cigars and Telly Savalas looks.

Boyd A. Bywater  Eternal Patrol 12/27/2020

Served on SS-483, SS-485

Cold War Submarine veteran Boyd A. Bywater, 88, of Portland, passed away peacefully Dec. 27, 2020, with family members by his side. He was diagnosed with stage four lung cancer in January of 2020, and battled gallantly during this past year.

Boyd was born in Lemmon, S.D., to William and Elva (Galland) Bywater, Feb. 27, 1932. Following graduation from Lemmon high school in 1950, he enlisted in the Navy and was proud to have served as a yeoman on board the Sea Leopard and Sirago submarines. After serving his country, he enrolled at Huron College. He transferred to the University of South Dakota and completed his Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration in 1959. While attending Huron College, he met his wife Ramona “Mona” on a double-blind date. Although they weren’t initially paired, they celebrated 63 years of marriage!

Boyd’s career was with the U.S. Government. Holding positions in the Bureau of Indian Affairs and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Real Estate Division. His job took his young family coast to coast beginning in Rapid City, S.D.then on to Titusville, Fla.; Window Rock, Ariz.; Los Angeles, Calif.; before finally settling in Portland, Ore., during the summer of 1970. Controversial at the time, Boyd was instrumental in moving the town of North Bonneville, Wash., allowing the second powerhouse at Bonneville dam to be built, doubling the electrical output. Boyd retired in 1987 to a life of golf, RV traveling, tinkering, being a Grandparent, summertime trips back to Lemmon, and morning coffee with friends at McDonalds. A proud member of the greatest generation, he was also a member of the USSVI Blueback Base and the American Legion. During the last 14 years of Mona’s life, she suffered from dementia and Boyd was her primary caregiver for most of those years.

 

Jose Cabrera Jr. 66-67  Eternal Patrol 12/22/2020

Served on SS-483

Cold War Submarine Veteran, Jose Cabrera Jr. passed away December 22, 2020. Jose was a proud veteran, and served in the United States Navy on the USS Sea Leopard (SS-483).

He Qualified in submarines on the USS Sea Leopard (SS-483) in 1966 and was a SK1(SS) when he left the Navy.

He was a loving father, son, brother, grandfather, and uncle.

Alan Elbert Fisk 68-70  Eternal Patrol 12/4/2020

Served on SS-483, SSBN-632, SSBN-627

Cold War Submarine Veteran, Alan Elbert Fisk, Sr. passed away peacefully on December 4, 2020 at age 78. Born in 1942 in Nucla, Colorado, he was the son of the late Elbert Henry Fisk and Ada Theressa Kelly. He was a devoted and loyal husband to Margaret Fisk (nee Thompson) for nearly 50 years. She preceded him in death in 2010. He had two siblings precede him in passing: younger brother James Fisk and sister Virginia Fisk who passed as an infant in 1952. Alan Sr. honorably served our country in the United States Navy. At sea he was initially assigned to the minesweeper USS Avenge. Then he was aboard submarines: first on the diesel boat USS Sea Leopard and then on the nuclear submarines USS Von Steuben and USS James Madison. On the Madison he served as the boat’s Navigator. After a stint of shore duty, he honorably retired from the Navy as a full Commander and spent his civilian career in the defense industry as an electrical engineer and earned a Masters Degree in Electrical Engineering. Alan served as Vice Commander of the USS Sea Leopard Veterans Association. He was a loving and devoted husband, father and friend to all who had the privilege to know or meet him. His interests, besides his wife of nearly 50 years, were car racing of any kind, especially Formula 1, and woodworking.

William “Bill” Hill  56-57  Eternal Patrol 11/20/2020

Served on SS-315, SS-483, SS-291, SS-324, SSBN-601, SSBN-659

Cold War Submariner William W Hill departed in his Eternal Patrol on 11/20/2020. Bill qualified in submarines aboard the USS Sealion (SS-315) in 1955 and was a MMCM(SS) when he retired from the Navy.

He also served aboard SEA LEOPARD, CREVALLE, BLENNY, ROBERT E LEE and WILL ROGERS.

Bill was a 21 year USSVI Life and Holland club member of REDFISH Base.

Harold S. Bomberger  49-51 Eternal Patrol 11/6/2020

Served on: SS-483, SS-405

Cold War submarine veteran, Harold Samuel Bomberger, 90, died Friday, November 6, 2020 at the VA Medical Center.
He was the husband of the late of Maryanne (Neubaum) Bomberger.
Born July 30, 1930, in Lebanon, he was the son of the late Samuel Franklin and Anna Jane (Lutz) Bomberger.
Harold was a 1948 graduate of Iona High School. He retired in 1990 from Bell Telephone Co. after 38 years.
Mr. Bomberger proudly served in the U.S. Navy/Submarine service from 1948-1952.
Harold coached little league baseball and basketball and was an avid hunter and fisherman. He was life member of the NRA, who enjoyed going out to dinner, exploring new places to eat, and especially enjoyed farming with his son, Eric. Harold will be remembered as a faithful, loving, husband and father.

Reginald E. Dumont  48-50  Eternal Patrol 10/26/2020

Served on SS-483

Reginald E. Dumont, 90, of Waterville died peacefully in his own home with family beside him on October 26, 2020. following a long battle with diabetes and kidney cancer. Reggie was born on March 21, 1930, in Waterville. He went to Waterville schools and obtained his GED. Reggie joined the Navy at the age of 17 and went into the submarine service in 1947 where he served as an electrician on the USS Sea Leopard. After his discharge in 1950, he returned to Waterville and married Yvette Mailloux and raised his five children on Carey Lane. He went on to become a Master Electrician and worked in construction throughout New England for 41 years with the IBEW local 1253 before retiring at age 62. He was predeceased by his first wife, Yvette, in 1985 and remarried in 1988 to Mary Jean Gorneau Dumont. Reggie and Mary Jean spent winters in Brooksville, Fla., and summers in Maine. They travelled together with friends and he enjoyed fishing and his vegetable gardens. This was the first year since 1953 Reggie didn’t have a garden. He was a proud member of the Augusta Submarine Veterans, The Holland Club, and the Weekie Watchee Submarine Veterans Club and a longtime member of the American Legion. Reggie was beloved by his friends and neighbors, always willing to lend a hand.

George Daniel Laemont III (“Dan”) 56-59  Eternal Patrol 9/15/2020

Served on SS-483

Cold war submarine veteran, George Daniel Laemont III (“Dan”), 83, of Eustis, passed away peacefully in his home overlooking Lake Eustis on Tuesday, September 15th, 2020. Born in Cicero, Illinois to the late George II and Helen Laemont, he and his wife moved to Eustis in 1988 from Gwynedd Valley, Pennsylvania. He was the Director of Marketing and Sales for Pringle Development from which he retired from in 1999. Three years later, Dan was asked to return to the company as a Consigliere. He loved mentoring those who wanted to start their own business through S.C.O.R.E. (Service Corps of Retired Executives), along with being a Certified Mediator with the State of Florida 5th Circuit Court. Dan served his Country in the U.S. Navy in Sonar Operation aboard the submarine 483.

Roger Hern Spooner  46-47  Eternal Patrol 7/4/2020

Served on AR-1, SS-259, SS-483

Born 11/18/1922, SVWWII card #10699.
Roger Hern Spooner was born in Georgia on November 18, 1923. Enlisting in the US Navy at age 18 in October 1941 because he was looking for “something better than working on the farm in Seminole County.”

He finished boot camp and was scheduled for his first leave home on Dec. 14. Instead, the invasion of Pearl Harbor happened, and on Dec. 14, he found himself on the U.S.S. Yorktown, an aircraft carrier, sailing for Pearl Harbor. He arrived there in February and said he could still see the oil and smoke from the burning ships.

When the war was over, he went to Tokyo Harbor in Japan to the Yokosuka submarine base, and was there until Nov. 1, 1945.

When he got back to Norfolk, Va., he still had 18 months to go on a six-year duty. He was transferred to Key West on the U.S.S. Sea Leopard.

Fred J Pester  57-60  Eternal Patrol 6/7/2020

Served on SS-475, SS-483, SS-523, SSN-604, SS-425

Fred John ‘Fritz’ Pester, 89, of Merrill, passed away Sunday, June 7, 2020 at Pine Crest Nursing Home, Merrill.

Fred was born April 5, 1931, son of the late Kurt and Nora (Kuether) Pester. He married Carol Jean Gille on January 6, 1978. She survives. Fred attended Merrill Senior High School and in 1951 he enlisted in the United States Navy. Fred served for 21 years in the Navy on various ships, most of the ships were Diesel Submarines except the Haddo which was a Nuclear Powered Attack Submarine. He was on the Haddo when it was commissioned, Fred is also Plank Owner of the Haddo. He then went back to the Diesel Submarines. After his last ship he went to Washington D.C. for shore duty and worked for the Military Police. He retired from the Navy in 1971 and was awarded 21 years of service. Fred then went to work for Drott Manufacturing/J.I. Case and retired in 1992. When Fred and Carol retired they traveled in their motor home and spent winters in the south. Fred was a member of the Fleet Reserve Association, Merrill V.F.W. Post 1638, Haddo Submarine Base, and the Navy Club.

Fred leaves his wife, Carol Pester; two children, Arthur (Debbie) Pester and Deborah Geier; and five step children, Laurie (Michael) Germain, Michelle (Howard) Sczygelski, Jean (Thomas) Kouba, Polly (Jay) Koebe, and David Bienfang (Jenny Tesch). He is further survived by nine grandchildren; ten step grandchildren; fourteen great-grandchildren; four step great-grandchildren; and one brother, Donald Pester.

William Hausinger, Jr.  58-58   Eternal Patrol  6/6/2020

Served on:  SS-265, SS-362, SS-172, SS-421, SS-525, SS-480, SS-424, SS-271, SS-483, SS-270, SS-349

William (Bill) Waite Hausinger Jr., 85, of Friendswood, TX died peacefully at home on June 6, 2020. He was born November 9, 1934 in Houston, TX, the only child of Margaret Hausinger and William (Bill) Hausinger Sr. Bill is survived by his devoted wife Ann Hausinger. Bill met Ann at age 15. They rode the same bus to school when he attended St. Thomas High School and she attended Washington Junior High. He enjoyed relating how they “held hands through the fence” that separated their adjacent schools. Bill and Ann married at age 18, on September 19, 1953. They were married for 66 years, or as he would say: “132 years if you count us both.” He enjoyed introducing her to others as his “first wife Ann.” He joined the Houston Fire Department at age 21. He was Deputy Chief over Fire Alarm when he retired in 1976, and served on the Houston Firefighters pension board as a retiree. He served in the United States Submarine Ready Reserve from 1952 to 1964. He was a member of the International Longshoreman’s Association, Union 1351. He was a welder. He was a shrimper, dragging his nets in Galveston Bay on the “Miss Ann.” Bill found great entertainment value in practical jokes. He loved getting an early start on the day. He enjoyed supervising others in their projects, and usually thought of a better way to do or fix things and didn’t mind telling you. He had a great talent and eagerness for repairing items that otherwise would be destined for the trash. With a welding torch or a metal lathe he could fabricate a part or find a solution to many problems. He was a tinkerer, a collector of tools, and his garage was often filled with the whir of a saw, the roar of the welding torch, and the scent of fresh saw dust. He loved teaching his grandchildren how to use tools to disassemble or reassemble old abandoned items such as manual typewriters. He loved visiting with family and friends, telling stories (especially to grandkids), blues music, and writing the date of purchase on everything. His hobbies included sailing, motorcycling, and traveling across the country by railroad. Even as his vision deteriorated he found ways to make the most of life.

Qualified in submarines on the USS Trutta (SS-421) in 1954 and was a EN1(SS) when he left the Navy.

James W Newman 48-50  Eternal Patrol 5/28/2020

Served on SS-478, SS-198

October 4, 1929 – May 28, 2020.  It is with deep sorrow that we announce the death of James William Newman, who passed away on May 28, 2020, at the age of 90, leaving to mourn family and friends.  Our condolences to his wife Carolyn, son James S. Newman and the rest of the family.

Jim was interested in everything and had a broad knowledge in all of his interests. He loved all things Arizona and anything connected to the American Indians and studied the different Nations extensively. Jim was the founder of the Perch Base USSVI in Phoenix and was active in its success. He was a member of Shepherd of the Hills United Church of Christ, the Masonic Lodge and Shrine in Illinois, and the Knight Templars in Arizona; the American Legion, National Rifle Association, and the Archeological Society to name a few. His interests were photography, reading, traveling, and collecting items that he enjoyed.

Qualified in submarines on the USS Sea Leopard (SS-483) in 1950 and was a EN1(SS) when he left the Navy.  Perch Base Plankowner, Holland Club and Life Member James (Jim) W. Newman.

Jim was a Plankowner member of the Perch Base USSVI and our first Base Commander. He also served many years as our Base Historian, as Western Regional Director in 1999, and has always been a substantial financial contributor to the Perch Base.

Thomas M. Lee  63-64  Eternal Patrol 5/8/2020

Served on SS-478, SS-483, SS-338, SSN-638, SSN-681

Qualified in submarines on the USS Cutlass (SS-478) in 1962 and was a STSCS(SS) when he left the Navy.

Hansville – Thomas McAuliffe Lee (79) passed away on May 8, 2020 at 11 pm at St. Joseph Hospital in Tacoma, WA Tom was born in 1941 of Mary Jane Maher and James Ord, and adopted soon after by Alice McAuliffe and John Edward Lee. He resided at the Milton Hershey orphanage during his adolescent years, graduating with a diploma in candymaking. His career as a submarine sonarman earned him the position of Senior Chief Petty Officer. Tom was extremely proud of his Naval Service about which he frequently told many sea stories. He served over 20 years on five submarines: Cutlass, Sea Leopard, Carp, Whale, Batfish. He told tales of disembarking at the north pole, playing a ball painted orange on the frozen ice, being attacked by depth charges and torpedos and sailing the narrow passageways beneath the ice in the seas north of Norway. Tom is survived by his wife of 17 years Lois, his two sons, David and Dan and his daughter Cathy, four sisters (Connie, Theresa, Linda, Letitia) and a brother Jimmy, several grandchildren and great grandchildren living in Pennsylvania and Washington states. Two previous wives preceded Tom in death, Jackie and Beverly. Tom was active in several naval organizations and served on his residential association in Driftwood Key. Tom was well liked in his community where he made efforts to help residents construct their dream homes in a beautiful community where he could view submarines traverse the Hood Canal as they deployed to ports around the world. He will be on final patrol henceforth. Carrying on from a background of men with great integrity, his uncle General Anthony McAuliffe refused to surrender in Bastoinne which disallowed the German progress in Belgium. His influence to Tom was to encourage integrity and dedication to a life of military service.

Duane Irwin Casper  45-45   Eternal Patrol  4/26/2020

Served on SS-217, SS-483, Cl-49, CV/CVA-32
Sea Leopard Commissioning Crew

CASPER, Duane Irwin, YNC(SS), USN, Ret., 96, of Ledyard, CT entered the world of eternal peace Sunday April 26, 2020, to be with his wife, Edna. He was born August 13, 1923 in Scales Mound, Ill., the son of George and Mildred (Wurster) Casper. Duane was educated in the Illinois school system. He joined the U.S. Navy before World War II and served on a light cruiser in the Pacific Ocean theater. After graduating from submarine school, Duane served on the USS Sea Leopard. He was authorized to wear nine battle stars and the Navy Unit Commendation. Duane retired as chief yeoman after 20 years, most of which were spent on submarines. He served on the staff of Commander Submarine Squadron 8 and on board the USS Piper, USS Seawolf and USS Guardfish. Duane was transferred to the U.S. Naval Fleet Reserve, and shortly thereafter, was employed by General Dynamics for 25 years. He was predeceased by his wife Edna W. Casper on April 15, 2015.

Frank X. Schmoller, Jr. 55-56   Eternal Patrol  4/8/2020

No Photo available

Served on: SS-483

Cold war Submariner Frank X. Schmoller of Hicksville NY, was born on February 23, 1930 and departed on Eternal Patrol on April 8, 2020Frank qualified in submarines aboard the USS Sea Leopard (SS-483) in 1955 and was a YN3(SS) when he left the Navy.
He was a Life and Holland Club member of USSVI Long Island Base.

Robert Eugene McNulty 57-58  Eternal Patrol  3/18/2020

Served on: SS-483, SS-261, AS-17

Retired attorney Robert Eugene McNulty passed away from stomach cancer on March 18, 2020 just shy of his 88th birthday. He was born on April 29, 1932 in Pittsburgh, PA to Mary Elizabeth Everett McNulty and Michael John McNulty. Bob and his family moved west to Phoenix, AZ in 1950 where he joined the Navy and became a Submariner, earning this Twin Dolphins in 1951. Bob married Helen Ann Coan in 1952 and they were graced with two daughters. During those years following his tour of duty in the Navy, he worked many jobs while earning a teaching degree from Arizona State University. He worked at Motorola Research Laboratory and performed in the university’s theater department and was a disc jockey, first at ASU, then at several Phoenix radio stations. Bob directed and performed in Phoenix theater as well. Life took its turns and in 1960, Bob married JoAnn Hazzard and they moved to Los Angeles where Bob worked in the entertainment industry while pursuing an acting career. During this time, Bob supported his family by working as a salesman, private investigator, and claims adjuster. Not moving ahead fast enough for his satisfaction, Bob made the decision at age 36 to attend law school. He earned his Juris Doctorate degree in 1972 at the age of 40 and enjoyed a long and successful career in the practice of law, beginning in Torrance, CA. Life again took its turns, and in 1977 Bob married Linda Anne Yorg. He practiced law in Torrance, CA until 1992 when he opened an additional office in Walnut Creek, California. Bob enjoyed teaching law at El Camino College for 17 years. He also owned and operated two sword fishing harpoon boats and spotter airplanes. During that time Bob was also a Planning Commissioner for the City of Rancho Palos Verdes for eleven years. He continued to practice law after moving to Victoria, Minnesota in 2009 and then to Wickenburg, Arizona in 2016. He retired last December at the age of 87. Bob was a larger than life personality who was never at a loss for words or opinions. As many stories as he told, and there were a lot, his children and friends are able to share as many “Bob” stories. He lived his life with passion and his greatest pride and love was for his family, and friends. And golf.

Robert M Putzer 68-69   Eternal Patrol  2/26/2020

No Photo available

Served on: SS-313, SS-338, SS-475, SS-483, SS-418, SSBN-641, SSBN-622

Born on May 9th, 1944 – Entered into Eternal Patrol on February 26th, 2020

Robert M Putzer of Manassas, VA Tom is on final patrol henceforth. He will be interred in his community of Hansville. A flag ceremony and celebration of life will be delayed until everyone is safe from the pandemic of Corona 19 virus.

Roy Samuel Palmer 49-49  Eternal Patrol  2/22/2020

Served on: SS-352, AS-18, SS-483, SS-406, SS-485

Roy Samuel Palmer, USN (Ret.)
Thanks be to God, for Roy/Sam’s earthly life of 91 years.
Sam was a loving husband and always wanted the best for his wife, Betty (deceased). They had 52 years together.
He was a tough, fair father to Sandi, Johnnie, Pam, and Mark (deceased). Papa to seven grandchildren and ten great-grandchildren.

James Perry Whitten 66-66  Eternal Patrol  1/29/2020

Served on: SS-483, SS-274, SS-302

James Perry Whitten, son of Perry Monroe Whitten and Virginia Wallace Whitten Greaves, departed this life on January 29, 2020 to begin the eternal voyage of the spirit in heaven. James (“Jim”) was born March 13, 1941, in Dallas, Texas. He was educated at: Elementary- Obadiah Knight; Junior High- Thomas J. Rusk; High School- North Dallas. After high school, Jim continued his education at North Texas State College, Denton, TX; Wharton County Junior College (A.A. Degree), Wharton, TX; Trinity University, San Antonio, TX, ( BS and Med Degrees). After graduation from Trinity University, 1965, Jim entered the U.S. Navy and was commissioned as Ensign, U.S. Naval Reserve. He served aboard submarines assigned to the Pacific Fleet, stationed out of San Diego, CA, and separated from the submarine service in November 1969. In August 1966, Jim married Sally Ann Lanyon at the First Presbyterian Church, Oklahoma City, OK. Jim Retired from the U.S. Naval Reserve in September 1993 with the rank of Commander. Settling in Oklahoma City in 1969, Jim became an independent insurance agent and worked until his retirement in November 2014.
For many years, Jim was involved as a volunteer in the church, volunteer with the Arts Council of OKC, and the local Homeowner’s Association. From 2004-2018, Jim was a Board of Directors member, and Treasurer, for the Oklahoma Military Heritage Foundation/Okla-homa Military Hall of Fame.

Richard A. Holmes 65-65  Eternal Patrol  12/5/2019

Served on: SS-435, SS-338, SS-483

Chief Warrant Officer (W-4) Richard A. Holmes U.S. Navy, Retired, passed away peacefully on December 5, 2019 in his home in Carlisle, PA at the age of 77.

He was born in Brooklyn, NY on October 2, 1942 to Edward and Lillian (Dalzell) Holmes. He graduated from Delehanty High School in 1960 and Upper Iowa University with a Bachelor of Arts.

He entered the U.S. Navy in 1963 and went on to serve as a submariner on the USS Carp (SS-338) as an electrician. His submarine was in port in Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada when he met Janet R. Cameron. Richard and Janet married on December 4, 1965. Richard served in the Navy for 34 years, retiring as a CWO4 in the Naval Reserves. He went on to serve with the Submarine Veterans, Pocono Base, until 2014, being inducted into the Holland Club.

Richard worked in the telecommunications industry with Bell Telephone and AT&T in New York and New Jersey. One of the highlights early in his career was overseeing the New Year’s Eve lighting and ball drop in Times Square. He then went on to work for the Pennsylvania Department of Corrections as a counselor and manager, retiring in 2002. Richard raised his family in the Poconos.

Richard volunteered with the U.S. Navy Sea Cadets and was part of the Telephone Pioneers. He could most often be found puttering in his workshop and doing house projects. We will remember him as the man who could fix or build anything, was willing to help anyone in need, had a great sense of humor, and had an iron clad work ethic. He always worked to advance and achieve, and never gave up.

Bernard O’Neill  69-69  Eternal Patrol 10/27/2019

Served on: SS-483, SSN-615, SSN-660

Bernard F. O’Neill, 70 of Mt. Airy Peacefully departed this life for the next on October 27, 2019, surrounded by his family and loved ones. Bernard was born February 9, 1949 in Baltimore, MD to the late Martin Anthony and Virginia Julia (Bode) O’Neill. Beloved husband of Debra L. O’Neill for 49 years. A graduate of Loyola and Johns Hopkins Universities. He was employed by Verizon before retiring after 29 years. Bernard was a proud Naval Submariner and served on the USS Sand Lance (SSN660) Nuclear Submarine. He was the first of his crew to be awarded the Navy Dolphins Pin. Mr. O’Neill recently earned his 4th Degree Membership with the Knights of Columbus.

William “Bill” Coyle  55-58 Eternal Patrol  9/20/2019

Served on: SS-483

William “Bill” Coyle of Addison, IL. Beloved husband of Rose nee Riordan.

William Ernest Carver  50-51 Eternal Patrol  10/4/2019

No Photo available

Served on: SS-483, SS-563, SS-311, SS-342, SS-423, SSN-596, SSBN-641

A native of Raleigh, he was the of the late Willie and Elizabeth Johnson Culver. William was preceded in death by his wife, Margaret B. Culver, who died June 13, 2019, along with two sisters, Claire Eikenberg and Anita Hager.

William was a member of First Presbyterian Church of Asheville and retired as a nuclear operator with Progress Energy.

He proudly served his country in the Navy retiring in 1976 as a senior chief electronic tech in the submarine service. William began his service career joining the U.S. Army in 1944 and served 20 months and four days transferring to the Navy and serving 18 years and four months and continued in 1966 enlisting in the Fleet Reserve for an additional 10 years.

Renaud Joseph “Shorty” Lebonville 52-52 Eternal Patrol 8/11/2019

Served on: SS-230, SS-0, SS-480, SS-483

Born October 14, 1923 in Turner Falls, Massachusetts, Renaud was the son of the late Louis Maurice Lebonville and Fredelise Andet Lebonville.

Shorty was a proud United States Navy veteran of WWII and the Korean Conflict. After the Korean War, he remained in the Naval Reserves until June 1, 1976, retiring as Command Master Chief Petty Officer (E9). In a PBS interview, he shared the story of his submarines’ rescue of former president George Herbert Walker Bush.

He was a very active member of Oak Grove United Methodist Church; the Long Creek Masonic Lodge, Charlotte Valley of the Scottish Rite and Oasis Shriner’s. Shorty, an electrician, also retired in 1978 from Duke Energy where he had been a supervisor of underground-Uptown Charlotte.

Survivors include his wife, whom he married April 7, 1951 in Great Falls, SC, Dalline Waters Lebonville; 4 children, Gaye Dianne Lebonville of Charlotte, Brenda Ann Henderson and her husband, Mike of Charlotte, Susan Rae Lebonville Small of Charlotte and Ray Joseph Lebonville of Concord; 4 grandchildren, Christina Marie Akers and her husband, Jay, Steven Ray Lebonville and his wife, Christina, Amanda Marie Lebonville and her companion, David French and Terry “TJ” Lynn Small, Jr. and his wife, Becky and 5 great grandchildren, Celeste Morgan Small, Towner James Akers, Ashton Reid Small, AnnMarie Riale Akers and Cooper Violet Akers.

Thomas K. Gibbs  67-69 Eternal Patrol 7/14/2019

Served on: SS-483

Thomas was born on November 15, 1946 and passed away on Friday, July 12, 2019. Thomas was a resident of Suwanee, Georgia at the time of passing. He was a veteran of the U.S. Navy serving in the submarine force. Mr. Gibbs proudly served on the USS Sea Leopard in the United States Navy from 16 April 1967 to 11 June 1969, receiving the National Defense Service Medal. Following this active duty Tom was a member of the USNR until 16 June 1971.

Tribute from Michael “Submarine Mike” Kotler

Tom Gibbs was more than a friend, he was a brother Submariner. We both served at the same time, on sister ships, Tom on the Sea Leopard SS-483 and me on the Pomodon SS-486. I met Tom 13 years ago and tried to get him to join our local Submarine Veterans Group, but I couldn’t separate him from his motorcycle. He would take weekend rides, then call me and tell me where he went. I will try to make arrangements  for his last ride home to Dayton. I miss you already.

Robert P. Renninger 67-69 Eternal Patrol 5/1/2019

Served on: SS-483

Of Ocala, FL, formerly of Glenshaw, PA, passed away peacefully on May 1, 2019, surrounded by loving family. Best friend and beloved husband of Linda (Klein) Renninger; father of Michelle (Brian) Zamborski and Michael (Kelly) Renninger; and devoted grandfather of Ethan Kmett, Sarah and Garrett Renninger. Bob is also survived by his brother, Thomas (Barb) Renninger; sister, Chris (Dan) Dunbar; sister-in-law, Diane (John) Gierl; brother-in-law, Ron (Diane) Klein; and many loving nieces and nephews. Bob was preceded in death by his parents, Edwin and Margaret Renninger; and his brother, Edwin (Linda) Renninger. Bob served America proudly as a U.S. Navy submariner aboard the USS Sea Leopard. He enjoyed a productive and successful career primarily in project management of railway signal systems, including employment with Wellington Power and U.S. Utility. Always a dedicated family man, Bob enjoyed spending time with his children and grandchildren. He and his wife of 47 years, Linda, had moved to Ocala Palms, FL in 2016 to enjoy their retirement. Bob enjoyed golf, swimming and socializing in their lively and close-knit community.

Bob qualified in submarines aboard SEA LEOPARD in 1968 (1967-69) and was a IC3(SS) when he mustered out from the Navy in 1969.Bob was a Holland Club member of USSVI Nautilus Base in Ocala FL.

Leo Joseph Letendre 45-45  Eternal Patrol 4/20/2019

No Photo available

Served on: SS-63, SS-483

Leo J., 93, passed away on April 20, 2019. He is predeceased by his wife of 67 years, Elizabeth (DeRocher)his brother, Richard Letendreand his daughter, Karen Raboin. He leaves his daughter, Michele Granger; sons, Kenneth and Gerard Letendre; nine grandchildren and three great grandchildren. Leo attended Medford High School and served in the US Navy submarine service [USS O-2, USS Sea Leopard] and was proud to be known as a Bubblehead. He was a state and national life member of US Submarine Veterans of WWII. After 33 years of dedicated and honorable service, Leo retired with the rank of Captain from the Somerville Police Department. As a police officer, he was chosen for a number of leadership positions including: Director of the Somerville Police Academy and Police Prosecutor at the Somerville District Court. Leo also served as a member of the Mass. Police Association Board of Directors, the Mass. Criminal Justice Council and the Executive Board of the Somerville Y.M.C.A. Following his retirement, he assumed the Directorship of Training for First Security Services in Boston. Leo took pleasure in helping others. He volunteered at The Stone Zoo, Friends of The Fells, and Hallmark Oncology Clinic in Stoneham. He loved music and sang in a barbershop quartet and chorus for many years. He was a friend to all animals, especially dogs for whom he always had a pocketful of biscuits. Leo was an avid reader, landscape oil painter, and photographer. He embraced life fully and will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him.

Bruce Bither  71-71 Eternal Patrol 4/15/2019

Served on: SS-483

Bruce Bither, of Bridgewater, passed away on Monday, April 15, 2019, after a short battle of cancer. He leaves his loving wife of 21 years, Linda (Morris). He was the son of the late Roger & Marguerite Bither (Noyes) and was raised in South Boston. He is survived by his sister, Gretchen Spears of Pennsylvania; two brothers, Charles Bither of Maine and Randall Bither of Quincy; and also is the loving uncle of many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.  Bruce was predeceased by his late siblings Christine Glavin, Roger (Butch) Bither and Scott Bither.

Bruce worked for Hebrew Senior Life at Orchard Cove in Canton as a maintenance engineer for many years and leaves behind many friends.  He served in the US Navy on the USS Sea Leopard, SS 483.  He was an avid NE Patriots fan who loved to watch them; cheer on every game with his wife Linda, and many may not know, loved to dance and play the harmonica. He was a member of the South Shore Harley Owners Group.

William E. Warren 67-67 Eternal Patrol 4/11/2019

 Served on SSBN-626, SS-483, SSN-585, SSBN-609

William “Bill” Edward Warren, 78, of Clinton, Iowa passed away at the University of Iowa Hospitals on Thursday, April 11, 2019.  Bill was born December 5, 1940 in Clinton, Iowa the son of Francis and Ethel (Hurlburt) Warren. He was a 1958 graduate of St. Mary’s High School. Following high school, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy, retiring after a 21-year career that included submarine service during the Cuban Missile Crisis. Following his Naval career, he received an Associate’s Degree in Business from AIC.

Bill was united in marriage to Phyllis Lemke on September 16, 1961 in Clinton, Iowa.

He was a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Parish. He was also a member of the Eagles Club, the VFW and AMVETS post 28. Bill also volunteered at the American Red Cross, Mercy Hospital and the Genesis VNA.

Bill owned and operated Warren’s Tavern and Confectionary Inc. from 1969 to 1981. Additionally, he worked at Lyondell, as an Electrician, retiring after 20+ years.

Bill enjoyed the outdoors, especially boating, fishing and hunting. He loved all sports and enjoyed participating in slow-pitch softball leagues. He also enjoyed reading and loved all of his pets that he had throughout his life. Above all, he loved his family very much and will be sadly missed.

Theodore F. Davis 50-5 Eternal Patrol 4/6/2019

No Photo available

Served on: SS-483, SSN-578, SSBN-654, SSN-675, SS-347

Theodore F Davis, CAPT, USN Ret. of Virginia Beach, VA. on Eternal Patrol 4/6/2019.  Qualified in submarines on the USS Sea Leopard (SS-483) in 1950 and was a CAPT when he left the Navy.

He also served aboard REQUIN, HALFBEAK, SEA OWL, ALBACORE, GRENADIER (Commanding Officer) and NEOSHO (Commanding Officer). He was a Life and Holland Club member of USSVI Hampton Roads Base.

Robert E. Williamson 55-58 Eternal Patrol 3/29/2019

Served on: SS-481, SS-352, SS-483, SS-405, AGSS-569, SS-525, AO-143

Chief Petty Officer, USN (Ret) Robert E. Williamson Sr., age 88, of Noank, CT entered into eternal rest on Thursday, March 28, 2019. He was born on October 7, 1930 in Bridgehampton, Long Island, NY, the youngest child of the late Eleazar and Alverta White Williamson.

Chief Petty Officer WIlliamson held lifetime memberships in the Groton Base Sub Vets, Holland Club, and 85-40 Fleet Reserve B Ranch 20.  During his enlistment, he served 17 years on submarines including the USS Cubera, Sea Leopard, Skate, George C. Marshall (blue), and Bluefish.  While in the Navy, he held the job of Yeoman.  He often reminded folks, “If it isn’t written, it didn’t happen.”  He enjoyed traveling the world including Greece, the North Pole, Scotland, Spain and many undisclosed locations including extended excursions in the deep seas. He and his family were stationed in Virginia, Connecticut and Pennsylvania.   He was honorably discharged in 1975 after faithfully serving 26 years.  After retirement from the Navy, he settled in Noank, CT where he resided until his last days.

While in the Navy, Robert coached youth football and also enjoyed playing softball as a catcher.

His second full time career began at Electric Boat, a division of General Dynamics Groton where he worked as a senior engineer assistant.  He earned his associate degree in Data Management from Johnson and Wales University in Providence, RI in 1984. When he retired from his second career, he enjoyed driving the school bus.

Throughout his life, Bob spent his leisure time gardening and landscaping his yard and neighbor’s yards if they needed help.  Once he obtained a snow blower, he did the same until the task got to be physically too difficult and then the neighbors returned the favor.  He loved to sing karaoke and could often be heard belting out Frank Sinatra’s “My Way.” He was an avid sports fan and loved to watch the Lakers and the UCONN women’s basketball teams.  You could find him on the grill fighting off seagulls.  He had a love of cars – specifically Cadillacs.  There were times where you could identify the year by the color of the Cadi in the photo.  Eventually, he settled into black broughams with red leather interior.  He specialized in road trips for most vacations. He and his wife were avid bowlers and even competed.  “Pencil Pusher” enjoyed his CB radio alongside his wife the “Pencil Eraser.” As a devoted father, he was a strict disciplinarian and valued education.  Dad was a good family man and provider.  He was supportive and frequently reminded his children, “ You can do anything you set your mind to” and that “You are the greatest because you came from the greatest – there is no one finer”.  Yes – a motivational speaker.   He loved to spoil his grandchildren with toys and to take them out for ice cream.  As a grandfather, he took time to play with the children and enjoyed watching their sports.

Louis Bunch 58-60  Eternal Patrol 3/3/2019

Served on SS-478, SS-483

On March 3rd Louis M. Bunch was quietly called home.  He had fiercely battled a debilitating illness for several years.  His kind heart, warm smile and words of wisdom will be missed by so many.  Louis was a loving husband and set an example for his offspring on what fatherhood is all about. Louis is survived by his “bride” of 62 years, Rosetta G. Williams and his 3 sons Louis E. Bunch (Cindi), Brian W. Bunch (Nellie), Darryl M. Bunch (Nadia) and daughter Jorgina Bunch-Russo. His oldest daughter Alvine Bunch-Reed passed in 1996. Louis is also survived by his sister Eulalia Glenn. Louis has 14 grandchildren and numerous great and great, great grandchildren. He is the son of the late Whit Bunch and Georgie Crocker.

Louis proudly served in the United States Navy for 21 years.  For much of his career he was assigned to ICBM Polaris style submarines. The ships he served on included USS Penobscott, USS Pursuit, USS Sea Leopard, USS Lafayette, USS Sam Houston, USS George Washington Carver, USS Thomas Jefferson, and the USS Hardhead. After retiring from the Navy, he opened and co-owned the Big Key Shop in the Majors Dept Store in Mariners Harbor. He also took pride in his work at the Staten Island Zoo building the rain forest exhibit. Then when he really embraced retirement. Louis adored his bride and the two of them were inseparable. He enjoyed spending time with his friends, the Galley gang.  He also enjoyed traveling and doing woodworking.  Louis loved to read and write.  One of his favorite things in the world to do was to spend time with the late Dr. Vincent & Natalie Fisher.  They were his extended family with a special bond.

Frank Lawrence Thompson 52-53 Eternal Patrol 12/22/2018

Served on SS-483, SS-394, SS-488, SSN-571

Frank Lawrence Thompson “Larry” (USN, CWO3, Ret.), 88, of Cabot, VT passed away in his home December 22, 2018. Born September 21, 1930 to Crow and Mable (Pierce) Thompson in Burlington, VT. Larry, as he was known, graduated from Cabot High School in 1948. He attended UVM and enlisted in the US Navy in 1950. On October 23, 1954, he married Marie Juliette Sylvain in Skowhegan, ME. In 1974, after 24 years in the Navy, he moved to Cabot and become a Master Plumber. Many in Cabot will remember him as the bus driver with the most orderly behaved students.

He is predeceased by his siblings, Clifton, Marie (Gay), Kenneth, and Leonard (Jack). His paternal uncles, Dude, Harry, and his aunt Betty. His maternal aunts Peg Abbott, Hazel Carpenter and uncles Clifton and Hilton Pierce.

He is survived by his wife Marie of 64 years and their 4 children, 7 grandchildren and 2 great grandchildren. Their children are Frank Larry Thompson and his wife Elaine Ibey of Barre, VT, Valerie Gay Thompson of Lebanon, NH, Marla Ann Simerly of Montpelier, VT, and Patrick Jon Thompson and his wife Lori of Mystic, CT.

While in the Navy his first ship assignment was the USS Ware (DD-865), then he volunteered for submarine service. He served aboard the USS Sea Leopard (SS-483), USS Razorback (SS-394), USS Sarda (SS-488), and the USS Nautilus (SSN-571) where he served as Chief-of-the-boat (COB). He also served on the USS Chanticleer (ASR-7) in San Diego, CA and was a Plankowner on the USS Downes (FF-1070) in Long Beach, CA.

While serving he received the Navy World War II European Occupation Medal, National Defense Service Medal (2), Navy Good Conduct Medal (4), Navy Expeditionary Medal, Navy Unit Commendation, Vermont Distinguished Service Medal, Vermont Veterans medal, and the Connecticut Service Medal. After 50 years of being “qualified in submarines,” he was inducted into the Holland Club.

During his time on shore duty as a Navy Recruiter he devoted much of his time to the Cherokee District Camping Committee, Columbia County, and the Ohio Explorer Scout Program. The district named the annual Larry Thompson award to be given in his honor.

During his life in Cabot, Larry was the director of the July 4th Color Guard and Memorial Day honor guard. He was part of the committee that created the Cabot Monument Honoring Cabot WWI and WWII veterans, and then later, he helped add names of veterans of Cabot that served in Korea and Vietnam. He also served as an EMT for Cabot ambulance and as a volunteer fireman. He also served as the Cabot Town Service Officer and president of the PTA for Cabot School. In 1999 he was presented the Cabot School Alumni Association award and in 2000 he received the Cabot School/Community Service Award.

Francis Junior Ball 45-46 Eternal Patrol 12/11/2018

Served on SS-203, SS-187, SS-483 Commissioning Crew

Francis “Frank” Ball age 94 of Manistee died Tuesday, Dec. 11, 2018 at Green Acres Retirement Home in Manistee.
He was born March 16, 1924 in Detroit son of the late Frank and Norma (Snyder) Ball. Frank was a graduate of the class of 1942 at Arthur Hill Trade School in Saginaw. He served our country during World War II, in the United States Navy, on submarine duty in the Pacific Ocean, from August 27, 1942 until his release on March 13, 1946.

Frank married Mildred M. Zwiefka at Saint Joseph Catholic Church in Manistee, on December 2, 1950. They spent their winters in Lake Havasu City, Ariz., for 20 years. While in Lake Havasu City, Frank was active with the Bureau of Land Management for the restoration of fish habitat. They celebrated over 60 of marriage together before Mildred’s death on September 23, 2011.

He was employed with Michigan Bell Telephone Company retiring in 1987, after 40 years of employment. Later in life he was a driver for the Department of Human Services and Meals on Wheels. He was a member of the Manistee Kiwanis Club, Michigan Bell Pioneers, Manistee Golf & Country Club and The Divine Mercy Parish (St. Joseph Catholic Church).

Frank enjoyed playing softball, bowling, playing golf, occasionally sailing and later in life Frank liked bird watching, reading nonfiction and visiting with family and friends about the old days.

Louis R. Baldi 69-69  Eternal Patrol 12/3/2018

 

Photo unavailable

Served on SS-483, SSBN-619, SS-475, AGSS-555, SSBN-617

Storekeeper Master Chief (RET) Louis R. Baldi, Jr. passed away on December 3, 2018 in Tampa FL. He is survived by his spouse Kate, his son Steven, his daughter Erika, three step children, 15 grandchildren, 5 great-grandchildren, his sister Shirley Mason, brother-in-law Donald Mason, many other family members, friends, and his two beloved dogs, Foxy & Scruffy. Louis (AKA Butch) was born in Concord, NH, graduated from Concord High, attended Bentley Business School for a few semesters then left to join the Navy, where he proudly served 26 years in the Submarine Squadrons.

He qualified in submarines aboard ARGONAUT in 1968 and also served aboard SEA LEOPARD, DOLPHIN, ALEXANDER HAMILTON and ANDREW JACKSON, and was a SKCM(SS) when he retired from the Navy.

Living in Gales Ferry, he went to work for Foxwood Casino for 8 years before working at the submarine base in Groton. He and his wife Caroline Belanger Baldi moved to NC to be close to their family who lived across the state line in VA. Sadly, Carol died within weeks after moving. Lou was also predeceased by his parents, Louis Sr. and Sylvia Baldi and stepson Craig Mills. Lou will be interned on May 13th at 2PM in New Hampshire State Veterans Cemetery, Boscawen, NH, with full Military Honors.

Lou was a past member of USSVI Groton Base.

Howard Hilstrom 61-66  Eternal Patrol 11/14/2018

Photo unavailable

Served on SS-483

Howard Hilstrom, 85, of Williamsburg passed away on November 14, 2018.
He served in Korean War with the U.S. Army, and many years with the Submarine Service of the U.S. Navy.
Left the Navy as TMC(SS).

Paul R. Chestnut 60-61 Eternal Patrol 11/12/2018

Served on: SS-271, SS-483, SSN-606

Retired U.S. Navy Chief Petty Officer Paul Chestnut, 90, of Colorado Springs, Colo., passed away at his home with family at his side Monday, Nov. 12, 2018. Paul was the son of Albert Buck “Vannie” and Laila Pennington Chestnut. He was born in Gastonia on Dec. 30, 1927.
Paul was a native of the Carolinas, growing up in Horry County S.C., Gaston and Brunswick counties. At 16, Paul joined the war effort in 1944, enlisting in the U.S. Navy. During his military career spanning 26 years, he served during World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War. He was on five continents and greater than 30 countries. He cruised both on and under the Atlantic and Pacific oceans, as part of the ‘Silent Service’, the U.S. Submarine Service. Paul was a proud Plank Owner of the USS Tinosa SSN 606. He completed his initial enlistment in the Navy in 1946 and joined the U.S. Army, earning glider wings and jump wings as a paratrooper. While serving in the Army, he met and married his wife, Rachel Brannon of Dallas, N.C., in 1951. After his Army enlistment, he returned to the U.S. Navy and stayed for the next two decades. The couple expanded into a family of five moving over a dozen times during his career.
Paul experienced the ‘wild blue yonder’ (airborne) to the ‘deep blue sea’ (submariner service) and all points in between. After retirement from the Navy in 1970 at his last duty station, Kenitra, Morocco, Paul and his family returned to Brunswick County, the home he always loved. He became the first fire chief for the newly organized volunteer fire department at Sunset Beach in 1972. He worked as a bridge tender for one of the last swing bridges in the state, a shrimper, and store manager. Paul was baptized and became an active member of Shallotte Presbyterian Church, serving as a deacon.
Paul and Rachel moved to Wilmington in 1976 where Paul continued to work in security and other managerial positions. He was active in the BPOE Elks Lodge in Wilmington and volunteered for the VA in Fayetteville. He was an avid coin collector and was a member of the Lower Cape Fear Coin Club.
Paul joined the Submariners Club in Colorado Springs and participated in the annual Veterans Day parade and community philanthropic endeavors until his last year.

Born 12/30/1927.  Retired as RMC(SS) in 1970.

Paul Lee Kidd 54-54  Eternal Patrol 11/6/2018

Served on SS-421, SS-483, SSG-577, SS-382, SS-424, SSK-1, SS-335, SS-384, DEG-3, AE-34, AO-148

Mr. Paul Lee Kidd Sr, age 83, passed away on Tuesday, November 6, 2018. He was born on August 22, 1935 to Noah and Octavia (Herbert) Kidd in Pikeville, KY. When Paul turned 18, he joined the US Navy Submarine Service and served from 1954-1976. During his Naval career, Paul served on seven boats, from the Arctic to Antarctica and the Cuban Missile Crisis. Following his retirement from the Navy Paul volunteered his time at the Smithsonian Institution. He retired again in 2004 and moved to North Muskegon with his wife, Barbara, where he was active in supporting the USS Silversides. He also was of member of Escolar Base of US Submarine Veterans, where he served as Commander for four years.

Earl Joseph Kelly 51-51 Eternal Patrol 11/2/2018

No Photo available

Served on: SS-302, SS-483

Earl Joseph Kelly, 93, of Jacksonville, FL passed away November 2, 2018. He is survived by his sister Sally (John), his wife Eleanor of 73 years, his 3 sons Patrick (Aileen), Terry (Georgia), Michael (Anita), 6 grandchildrenand 10 great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents Elizabeth and Earl Joseph Kelly and two brothers George & Tommy. Earl was born July 2, 1925 in Lonaconing, MD. He enlisted in the US Navy in 1942 and served on the submarines USS Sabalo (SS-302) and USS Sea Leopard (SS-483). He was an active member of J.A.G.A., serving as president & coordinating the J.A.G.A Mixed 2-Ball for 10 years. He was an active member of Arlington United Methodist Church for 60 years.

David F Thompson  63-66 Eternal Patrol 7/27/2018

Served on: SS-483

David F. Thompson, 77, of Pendleton, passed away on July 27, 2018 at St Vincent Anderson Regional Hospital. He was born on May 23, 1941 in Carbon, Indiana and resided most of his life in Pendleton. He served his country in the United States Navy, and he retired from Ft. Harrison after 30 years of service, where he worked as the Foreman of Preventive Maintenance. He was an avid bird hunter, and fisherman. He enjoyed riding horses, his motorcycle and spending time with his grandchildren. David is survived by his wife, Sandy Thompson; sons, Jeff (Michelle) Thompson, James Thompson; grandchildren, Shawn (Jerrika) Chapman, Macey Lisk, Aubrey Charron, Emma Thompson, and Sofia Thompson

Robert Leo Sheeran 45-45 Eternal Patrol 7/26/2018

Served on: SS-483, SS-477, SS-266, SS-382

SHEERAN, Robert Leo, 92, died November 26, 2018. He lost his soul mate Betty on July 4, 2018 and now they are together again this time for eternity. Bob was born in Waseca, Minnesota January 29, 1926. He was the youngest of five brothers born to Agnes Hayden Sheeran. While growing up in the Great Depression the family faced numerous hardships, but with hard work and a strong mother the family persevered. When Bob turned seventeen in 1943, his patriotic duty led to his withdrawal from high school and enlistment in the US Navy where he joined the submarine service. He qualified in submarines in USS Conger (SS-477) and was GM3(SS) when discharged in the spring of 1946. Bob returned to Waseca where he finished his last year of high school and attended St. Thomas College in St. Paul Minnesota, where he graduated in 1951 earning a business degree with an emphasis in accounting. After graduation, he accepted a position as an account executive for Merrill Lynch in Minneapolis. In 1951, Bob married the light of his life, Betty Brown, the daughter of Rodney and Vera Brown of Waseca, Minnesota. Sixty-six years of a loving marriage followed, and Bob was fond of saying, “if I had not found Betty, I would still be looking for her.” In 1961, Merrill appointed Bob the first manager of a new office in La Jolla, California. While in La Jolla, Bob became the first lay member sefor the Board of Trustees for the University of San Diego. During his tenure on the Board, he was instrumental in the consolidation of the men’s and women’s colleges and the law school in what has become today’s well known University. In 1967, Bob was appointed a Vice President of Merrill Lynch, and in 1969 assumed the position of Vice President and Manager of the new office in Seattle, Washington. In 1978, Bob was appointed Senior Vice President and elected to the Merrill Lynch Board of Directors. After forty years of service to Merrill Lynch, Bob retired in 1991. While in La Jolla and then Seattle, Bob was very active in community services of each city. After retirement, he became Chairman of the Finance Committee for the Franciscan Foundation for the Holy Land, a charity whose sole purpose is to help Christians remain in the Holy Land. He was also a member of the Knights of the Holy Sepulchre in La Jolla and founding member of the Seattle chapter.

John C Marshall LCDR 57-60 Eternal Patrol 6/15/2018

No Photo available

Served on: SS-483, AV-12, BB-64, DD/DDE-820

MARSHALL, John Crosby, passed away peacefully at his home in Thousand Oaks, California, on June 15, 2018 surrounded by his loving family. John was born on April 11, 1929 to William and Genevieve Marshall in Milford, Connecticut. In family tradition dating over 200 years, John enlisted in the U.S. Navy and was promptly ordered to attend the U.S. Naval Academy (class of 1952). While enrolled in school, he met his love and lifelong companion Barbara Myers (Marshall) and they were married at the Academy in 1954. John’s naval career spanned 18 years where he served aboard many ships including the U.S.S. Wisconsin, the U.S.S. Rich, and the U.S.S. Pine Island. He also graduated from submarine school and served on the U.S.S. Sea Leopard. From 1957 to 1960, John was assigned to Yokosuka, Japan, as a Communications Officer. He and his family lived in Hiyama and Yokohama. John left the Navy in 1963 due to tuberculosis but thankfully recovered. After the Navy, John pursued a career in electrical engineering with Southern California Edison. In 1975 John and Barbara left Southern California for Alaska, where John was the Chief Engineer for Chugach Electric. While in Alaska, John pursued his passion for the outdoors – fishing, hiking and sightseeing throughout the state with Barbara and his two sons. In 1986, John relocated again to Burlington, Vermont, where he became Chief Engineer for Green Mountain Power. In 1998, John and Barbara retired to Thousand Oaks, California, to be near their children and grandchildren. In retirement, John volunteered with the Thousand Oaks Police Department, the Reagan Library, and the Thousand Oaks United Methodist Church. John is survived by his wife of 64 years, Barbara, who continues his legacy of service to the community.

Walter Robert Hansen 49-49 Eternal Patrol 5/31/2018

No Obituary or Photo available

Served on: SS-483, SS-328

Qualified 1952 on the USS Charr

Charles “Mike” Baize 67-69 Eternal Patrol 5/4/2018

Served on SS-483

Charles “Mike” Baize, age 71, passed away Friday, May 4, 2018 at his home surrounded by his family. He was born July 23, 1946 the son of Charles and Mary (Hubbert) Baize. He had lived in the area his entire life, graduating from Chelsea High School in 1964. He worked for the Ann Arbor Fire Department, Chelsea Milling Co., as well as construction,  Federal Screw, and he retired from the State of Michigan as a Corrections Officer. Mike enjoyed hunting rabbits, coons, and pheasants, and he loved his dogs. On July 10, 1971 he married Karen Lehmann, and she survives.

James N. Shawlin  Eternal Patrol 4/8/2018

Severed on SS-483

Shawlin, James N. QMCM (SS) December 19, 1936 – April 8, 2018 Master Chief James Shawlin passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family, on April 8, 2018 after a long battle with Parkinson’s Disease. Chief is survived by his wife of forty-five years, Mary Ellen (nee Keegan) and six children: Maria, Matthew, Meghan, Timothy, Christopher and Natalia Nichole (Michael) King. Chief is preceded in death by his parents, Natali Genovesi, May VonStockhausen and Walter Shawlin and his sister, Vicki Shawlin. A thirty-year veteran of the U.S. Navy, Chief served with distinction in the Vietnam War, spending forty months as part of the Brown Water Navy Riv. Div. 571, Riv. Sec. 522. During his time in Vietnam he was awarded two Bronze Stars (w/Combat ‘V’), two Purple Hearts, a Meritorious Service Medal, three Navy Commendation Medals and two Presidential Unit Citations. Upon retirement from the U.S. Navy he went on to become an instructor in the Marquette University NROTC Naval Science Program and at Bay View High School in the NJROTC program.

Robert K. Caldwell 68-69 Eternal Patrol 3/29/2018

Severed on SS-483, SS-421, SS-475

Commander Robert (Bob) Caldwell, USN (Ret.), of Annapolis, MD, passed away on 29 March 2018. He was 81 years old.

A native of Walton, KY, Bob attended Dixie Heights High School in Fort Mitchell, Kentucky, where he was a football standout. He graciously turned down a “full-ride” football scholarship from Coach Paul ”Bear” Bryant to the University of Kentucky to attend the United States Naval Academy. He was in the 18th Company and subsequently served as its Company Commander. Bob played football all four years and attended the first Annapolis Touchdown Club Banquet in 1954. Bob was a proud member of the 1958 Cotton Bowl Championship football team and cherished that time and his teammates his entire life. On graduation Bob was one of only 19 midshipmen from the Class of 58 to receive a letter of commendation citing “their officer-like qualities and positive characters to the development of naval spirit and loyalty within the Brigade.” Upon graduation, he remained at the Academy as an assistant football coach under Eddie Erdlatz. He first served on the destroyer INGERSOLL (DD652) as the Anti-Submarine Warfare Officer and then on the MCKEAN (DD784) as the Gunnery Officer. In 1961 he transitioned to the Silent Service, completing Submarine School (New London, CT). He reported to the TRUTTA (SS421) as the Engineering Officer in Key West, FL where he participated in the naval blockade of Cuba during the Cuban Missile Crisis. He qualified for command in 1964. Subsequently he attended Naval Post-Graduate school in Monterey, CA, receiving a Masters of Science in Management in 1966. Following that tour he served on board the ARGONAUT (SS475) as the Operations Officer in Norfolk, VA, subsequently completing the prospective commanding officer’s school in New London, CT. In 1968 he reported to the SEA LEOPARD (SS483) as the Executive Officer. CDR Caldwell’s shore tours included, CINCLANT Joint Staff as the General War Communications Plans Officer, Executive Officer of the University of Virginia’s NROTC Unit and then Commanding Officer, U.S. Naval Communications Unit, London, England. Upon returning stateside, he became the Head, Tactical Communications Command & Control Development Unit. Bob’s final tour was Deputy Director of Athletics/Head, Physical Education Department at the Naval Academy. While there, he was the location representative for the 1984 US Olympic Organizing Committee, World Soccer Venue held at the Navy Marine Corps Memorial Stadium. Upon retiring from active duty in 1984, he was a Program Engineer for TRACOR APPLIED SCIENCES and a consultant for the Naval Academy Athletic Association. Bob was the President of Secure Destruction Systems, Inc. from 1986 to 1999, a family owned document shredding service in the Washington Metropolitan area. One way he maintained his connection with the Academy was sponsoring Midshipmen where he was able to enjoy many outstanding young people, who in turn kept him young and active.

Bob was a dedicated life-long Christian and started serving as a Deacon in the Florence Christian Church, KY at 16. He provided lay services for the crew while aboard, and he enjoyed singing at church as an always present member of the choir. For the last 23 years Bob has been an active member of Heritage Baptist Church, Annapolis, MD.

John W. Truman 64-64 Eternal Patrol 3/23/2018

 Severed on SS-483, SSBN-643

John Truman died peacefully, with his wife and children by his side, on March 23rd 2018 in Surprise, Arizona. He was 73 years old. John is survived by his wife, Mary Cronin Truman, his son Christopher John Truman (Maureen Ward Truman) grandson, Brendan, and granddaughter, Colleen, of Vernon, CT; and his son Joseph John Truman (Corina Card Truman), of Norwich, CT.
John was born on June 1st 1944 in Seattle, Washington to Jack and Catherine Truman. He married Mary on August 24, 1968. He served eight years in the U.S. Navy Submarine Service. Following his time in the Navy, John owned and operated a Maintenance company for eight years. He began working for General Dynamics, Electric Boat in 1980, as a Logistics Analyst, retiring in 2010.
John was first and foremost a family man. Family and friends remember him as a kind, selfless person always the first to volunteer his time and energy. He was an active and dedicated member of the Groton chapter of the U.S. SUBVETS and a lifetime member of the Holland Club.

 

William B Zilar 54-56 Eternal Patrol 2/4/2018

Severed on SS-344, SS-483, SS-476, SS-580, SS-481, SS-475, SS-402, SS-582

William (Bill) Blair Zilar Jr, 83, passed away peacefully on February 4, 2018 in Pueblo, CO. Bill recently relocated to Pueblo to be closer to his children, after residing in Kennewick WA for over 35 years. He was born July 7, 1934 in Denver, CO. After proudly serving in the US Navy for over 23 years, Bill retired as a Senior Chief Petty Officer TMCS (ss) with an honorable discharge in 1975. He enjoyed the camaraderie he shared with his fellow submarine veterans and reminiscing and sharing stories at reunions across the country. Upon retiring, he studied air conditioning and refrigeration and received an associate degree in applied science and then opened an appliance repair shop for three years in Pueblo West. He decided to return to Kennewick and worked 15 years for Richland Lutheran Church performing many mechanical and maintenance duties. Devoted to his faith, family and friends, Bill had a very kind heart and genuine caring for others. He was always willing to lend a helping hand.

Donald Panichi 66-68 Eternal Patrol 1/31/2018

Served on: SSBN-620, SS-483, SSN-597, SSBN-609

Donald was a Korean War veteran who served his country honorably in the U.S. Navy as a submariner for 20 years, and retired in 1991 from the U.S. Postal Service as a rural mail carrier.

Donald dedicated his life to Free Masonry and served as Past Master Union-Wyalusing Lodge No. 108, Towanda, Past High Priest Union Royal Arch Chapter, Towanda, Past Thrice Illustrious Master, Northern Council No. 24, Athens, Past Commander, Northern Commander No. 16, Towanda, Past Eminent Prior, Penn Priory No. 6, Mechanicsburg, Past Illustrious King, Council of Anoited Kings of PA, Past Worthy Master, St. Thomas of Acon, Pilgrim Chapel No. 1, Pittsburgh, Past Very Eminent Prectptor, Holy Royal Arch Knight Templar Priests, Hazelton, Past Sovereign Master, Northeastern Coucil No. 333 Allied Masonic Degrees, Towanda, Past Grand Goverenor of PA, York Rite Soveriegn College of North America, Past Governor, Northeastern York Rite College No. 102, Towanda, Past Soveriegn, St. James Conclave, Knights of the Red Cross of Constantine, Shamokin, and Past Knightly Priest Gallicantu Tabernacle No. 75, Holy Royal Arch Knight Templar Priests, Hazelton. He was also Holder of Grand Council Membership Apron, Grand Council of Royal and Select Master of Masons of PA, a member of Royal Order of Scotland, member of Irem Shriners, Dallas, member of Northeast Council No. 74 Knight Masons, Hazelton, member of Sullivan Forest No. 210, Tall Cedars of Lebanon, Athens, Past Thirce Potent Master Valley of Towanda AASR, and member of Williamsport Concistory AASR. He received the Meritorius Service Award, PA Council of Deliberation and an Honorary Member of Supreme Council 33 AASR 1, Northern Masonic Jurisdiction.

R. Larry Wonner 67-69 Eternal Patrol 1/2/2018

Served on: SS-483, SSBN-641

R. Larry Wonner, 70, of Davner Road, Leetonia, passed away 11:45 p.m., Tuesday, Jan. 2, 2018, at Cleveland Clinic.
Born Aug. 30, 1947, in Salem, he was a son of the late Richard M. and Janet “Pete” (Nonno) Wonner.
He had worked as a truck driver for Advantage trucking, and attended St. Jacob’s United Church of Christ.
Mr. Wonner was a U.S. Navy veteran, having served as a torpedo man during the Vietnam War aboard the U.S.S. Boulevard and the Sea Leopard.

Burnette J. Rickmond Jr. 61-61 Eternal Patrol 11/1/2017

Served on: SS-346, SS-483, SS-419

Burnette “Jim” J. Rickmond Jr., 74, of Longvue Avenue, Westerly, surrounded by his loving family, passed away peacefully at the Westerly Hospital.

Mr. Rickmond was born in Roxboro, NC on November 15, 1942. Jim was a Vietnam veteran who served in the United States Navy, attaining the grade of E-6 and earning the Navy Expeditionary Medal (Cuba) and the National Defense Service Medal. He earned his bachelor’s degree in Management from Johnson and Wales College and a certificate of Quality Control Management and Engineering from the University of Rhode Island. He was a life member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars and the United States Submarine Veterans, Inc.

As a retired senior quality assurance engineer from EaglePicher Technologies LLC, formerly Yardney Technical Products, Inc., Jim worked for many years in quality assurance, developing the Quality System for Yardney. In addition, Jim was the Program manager for the Mars Program which included NASA’s Mars Exploration Rovers: The Opportunity, The Spirit and The Curiosity. Having studied under Dr. W. Edwards Deming, the father of Quality Evolution, Jim became a great mentor for so many who benefited from his guidance.

Jim was devoted to his family and friends and dedicated unlimited support, guidance, and love to all. He will always be remembered as a True Southern Gentleman, a man of great respect and kindness for all. Jim will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by many.
“Fair winds and following seas”

Qualified in submarines on the USS Sea Leopard (SS-483) in 1963 and was a EM1(SS) when he left the Navy.

LCDR Rex Smallie 64-65 Eternal Patrol 8/16/2017

Executive Officer

Served on: SS-483

Virginia Beach – Rex Dean Smallie, 88, died on Aug. 16, 2017, in his home.

He is survived by a son, John Taylor Smallie of Richmond, Virginia; and a daughter, Jennie Smallie Burge and husband Steven Burge of Virginia Beach, Virginia, four grandchildren, Benson Dean Smallie and Shannon Grace Smallie, both of Richmond, Virginia, and Caroline Burge and Charlotte Burge of Virginia Beach. He was predeceased by his wife of 59 years Marjorie B. Smallie.

Mr. Smallie graduated from the University of Utah and Old Dominion University. He served as a commissioned officer in the U.S. Navy for more than 20 years and retired July 1, 1971. He served on the USS Henry W. Tucker (DDR-875), the USS Sea Owl (SS-405), the USS Croaker (SSK-246), the USS Trumpetfish (SS-425), the USS Sea Leopard (SS- 483), and on the USS Oxford (AGTR-1). He saw action in both the Korean and Vietnam wars.

After retiring from the U.S. Navy, Mr. Smallie taught science in the Virginia Beach City Public Schools for 23 years. He retired from his teaching career in June, 1994.

Charles King 66-67 Eternal Patrol 8/14/2017

Served on: SS-483

Charles W. “Chuck” King, 72, passed away late Monday afternoon, August 14, 2017, at Allegheny General Hospital in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, following a brief illness.  Charles was born November 3, 1944, in Wheeling, West Virginia, the son of the late Charles W. and Mary Emerson King and came to this area in the early 1970’s.

Chuck graduated from Triadelphia High School in West Virginia and after moving to Ohio, was the owner/operator of Smith Advertising in Youngstown for over 20 years.

Mr. King enjoyed golf and hunting and was a member of the NRA. He was a fan of the Cleveland Indians and Cleveland Browns, enjoyed shooting pool and was a member of several area pool leagues. Chuck enjoyed telling jokes and spending time with his family.

Roger King 67-69 Eternal Patrol 8/13/2017

Served on: SS-483, SSN-673

Roger King, 69, of South Windsor, beloved husband of Mary (Sunseri) King, died peacefully on Sunday, August 13th, with his wife by his side. Roger was born on March 4, 1948, in Hartford, CT, son of the late Fred and Elsie (Nelson) King. He was a graduate of South Windsor High School, Class of 1967.

He served our country with the Navy during Vietnam aboard the USS Flying Fish (SSN-673), a Sturgeon class nuclear attack submarine. Roger married the love of his life, Mary, in 1972, and they settled in South Windsor. He received a heart transplant in 1996, graduated Manchester Community College in 1998, and became a Drug and Alcohol Recovery Counselor with Community Solutions Inc.

He enjoyed casino trips, video games, The Los Angeles Dodgers, and the open road, and was an avid fisherman. He loved bass fishing with family and friends locally, and on Lake Ontario. He was proud of the home he built in South Windsor and took pride in his yard.

Joseph Silveria Gomes  Eternal Patrol  8/9/2017

Served on: SS-483, SS-334, SS-323

No obituary available

CAPT Edward J. Covey 58-59 Eternal Patrol 7/3/2017

Served on: SS-483, SSBN-609, SSN-663, SSBN-629

Edward John Covey, 86, Valley Grove, passed away Monday, July 3, 2017, in Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH. Edward was born February 24, 1931 in Sharpsville, PA, the son of the late Edward and Antoinette (Tolot) Covey. He was a member of St. Michael Parish Church, Wheeling, WV.

He is survived by his wife, Rosemary (Pirozak) Covey, two children, Andrea (Tony) Lavecchia, and Christopher (Lela) Covey, two sisters, Bunny Covey, and Louise (Smith) McCausland, and one grandchild, Stallone Sabatier.

Edward retired from the U.S. Navy in 1982 as a Captain, after serving for 33 years.

Outside of his professional career, he was a member of the Knights of Columbus 504, Submarine Veterans Association Requin Base, the Navy League, VFW, and the American Legion Post No. 0656.

George E Long 66-68 Eternal Patrol 4/11/2017

Served on: LSD-5, SS-402, SS-394, SS-483, SS-339, SS-391

No Obituary available

Qualified in submarines on the USS Sea Fox (SS-402) in 1958 and was a EMC(SS) when he left the Navy.

CDR Robert Lowell Owens 65-66 Eternal Patrol 4/11/2017

Commanding Officer

Served on: SS-485, AS-15, SSG-574, SSG-577, SS-483, SS-283

SSG-577  Growler CDR 1961-64 28 Feb 61 RFD, XO then CO as of 1 Jun 63 Commanding Officer
SS-483  Sea Leopard CDR 1965-66   Commanding Officer

USN, enlisted in Fresno, CA 2/20/1943, released 3/1946, recalled 4/1952, retired 6/1975, EM2(SS) prior to receiving Commission, officer file #338330

Qualified in submarines on the USS Tinosa (SS-283) in 1944 and was a CDR when he left the Navy.

 

Earl Malvi Owens 45-47 Eternal Patrol 4/6/2017

Served on SS-173, SS-0, SS-168, SS-483, SS-478, SS-344, SS246

On April 6, 2017 Earl M. Owens. Beloved husband of the late Betty Owens. Devoted father of Bill Riley, Sharon Acquaviva, Cathy Werner and Ronald Owens. Loving grandfather of Nicole Jantz, Kimberly Busby, Amanda Horvath, Laura Takata, Earl Acquaviva III, Sarah Dietz and Dana Rochinski. Also survived by 13 great-grandchildren and many loving family members and friends.

Manuel Lane Jr 61-61 Eternal Patrol 4/4/2017

Served on: SS-346, SS-483

Manuel Lane Jr., 90, of Salisbury, died on Tuesday, April 4, 2017 peacefully at Peninsula Regional Medical Center. Born on September 29, 1926 in Denton, MD, he was the son of the late Manuel and Cora Lane.

He had over 22 years of service in the United States Navy as a Submarine Electrician (E6). After being Honorably Discharged from the Navy in 1974, Manuel continued to be an electrician in various company’s on the eastern shore. He enjoyed fishing, hunting, playing cards, bingo and going to the casinos. Manuel was a life member of the American Legion Post #64 Salisbury, life member of VFW Post #194 Salisbury, and a member of the fraternal order of Eagles #5403. He never missed watching Vanna White on Wheel of Fortune.

Sidney R. J. Logan 60-61 Eternal Patrol 2/26/2017

No Obituary or Photo available

Served on: SS-347, SS-272, SS-483, SS-256, SS-394

Qualified in submarines on the USS Cubera (SS-347) in 1958 and was a EMC(SS) when he left the Navy.

Casmier (Eugene) Charles Wierski 46-49  Eternal Patrol 2/7/2017

No Obituary or Photo available

Served on: SS-410, BB-32, BB-34, DD-154, SS-90, SS-220, SS-0, SS-67, SS-481, SS-483, SS-405, SS-403

Enlisted at Philadelphia, PA 11/21/1939, transferred to Fleet Reserves 7/1959, SVWWII-L-00412. Retired from the Navy as TMC(SS) in 1959.

Norman Snell 65-66 Eternal Patrol 12/25/2016

Served on: SS-483

Norman was born on May 30, 1921 and passed away on Sunday, December 25, 2016. Norman was a resident of Cedar Rapids, Iowa at the time of his passing. Norman served in the U.S. Navy for 24 years until retiring. He was married to Imogene.

Daniel A Maresca 52-52 Eternal Patrol; 12/6/2016

Served on: SS-483, SS-319

Daniel Maresca, age 85, of Edgewater, FL, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, December 6, 2016. Daniel was born November 4, 1931, in Queens, NY, to Anthony and Elena Maresca. Daniel served proudly in the Navy from 1951-1955. He served on the USS Becuna SS 319. He was passionate about football and spent many decades as a volunteer coach developing young boys into good football athletes. He was ‘Coach Maresca’ in the Pop Warner organization and was admired by both his colleagues and student athletes, for his dedication and knowledge of the game. He retired as an electrical inspector from the Board of Education of NY City. Together with his wife, Millie, he moved to Edgewater Landing in 1995. He started the Sub Vets Chapter of Ponce de Leon soon after arriving. Every day was a vacation for him, living in Florida.

Robert A Mathews Eternal Patrol 11/18/2016

Served on: SS-483, SSBN-601

No Obituary available

USN Retired in 1986, Quality Systems Engineer Tower Automotive retired 02-15-08

LT Robert Kenneth Moyle 52-52 Eternal Patrol 10/1/2016

Served on: SS-483, SSN-578, SSN-591, SS-338

Robert K. Moyle, Sr., 87, of Rockland Township, passed away Saturday, October 1, 2016, at 2:25 am in Manor Care Health Services, Muhlenberg Township. He was the husband of the late Margaret L. (Rowan) Moyle who passed away February 6, 1996. Born in Mount Carmel, PA, Mr. Moyle was the son of the late Arthur and Hattie (Dillman) Moyle. He was a graduate of Mount Carmel High School and received a Bachelors of Science Degree in engineering from Penn State University. Mr. Moyle serviced in the United States Navy for 23 years and was the Director of Physical Facilities at Kutztown University. Qualified in submarines on the USS Sea Leopard (SS-483) in 1951 and was a LT when he left the Navy.

CAPT Allen Burdett Catlin 45-50 Eternal Patrol 9/6/2016

Commanding Officer

Served on: SS-425, SS-220, SS-81, SS-87, SS-86, SS-258, SS-483

CATLIN, Allen Burdett, died September 6, 2016. Buck was born July 23, 1918, in New Britain, CT, and graduated from Miami, FL Senior High School in 1936. Following graduation, Buck joined the Navy and was appointed from the fleet to the U.S. Naval Academy graduating in the class of 1942. Throughout World War II, Korean and Cold Wars, Buck served primarily aboard diesel submarines. During his service in the U.S. Submarine Forces, he had five submarine and division commands. He retired with the rank of Commander. Out of the service, Buck moved to California to his wife Bobbie’s family home in Fullerton. For over 20 years, Buck taught electronics at Fullerton College, rising to serve as Department Chairman and as President of the college’s Faculty Senate. A Fullerton resident since 1961, Buck was extremely active in his community over a period of three decades, serving on multiple clubs, boards and organizations as well as being appointed to the Fullerton Planning Commission and elected to the City Council, culminating in the position as City of Fullerton Mayor. Buck served the city as Councilmember and Mayor for 12 years. Allen B. “Buck” Catlin is survived by his wife Bobbie children Jim, Jo Dee Jacob and Janny Meyertheir spouses; three grandchildren and five great grandchildren. Interment at Loma Vista Memorial Park.

Edward A Sowinski Jr 53-53 Eternal Patrol 7/9/2016

Served on: SS-485, SS-483

Edward A. Sowinski of Fort Myers, Florida passed away peacefully July 9, 2016. ‘Junior’ was born on May 6, 1933 to Edward and Sophie (Nitowski) Sowinski in Natrona, PA. He graduated from Harbrack High School in 1951, University of PA (Pittsburgh) in 1959 and Akron School of Law in 1964. As a distinguished member of the bar, Mr. Sowinski practiced in Youngstown OH and served as city prosecutor during the 1970’s. He was also a proud US Navy submariner aboard the USS Sea Leopard from 1951-56. Go Navy!!

After retiring to Fort Myers, Florida in 2002, he was often seen swimming his daily laps & walking his 4 miles around Davis Lake. He dearly loved his Pittsburgh Steelers, and grew to tolerate beloved family members who tried to sneak in a Browns t-shirt. Tolerate, not condone. Always articulate, he enjoyed a healthy political argument and, on occasion, took his opinions to his local newspaper.

Leon Edward Stromlund 61-61 Eternal Patrol: 6/25/2016

Served on: SS-483, SS-344, SSN-571

Stromlund, Leon E. 76, passed away peacefully on Saturday, June 25, 2016. Leon was born in Granite City, IL. Mr. Stromlund is survived by his beloved wife Patricia “Trish” Stromlund of 46 years.

Leon was a member of St. John United Church of Christ, Granie City, IL. He earned the God & Country Award. Leon served in th Navy for 7 years, was associated with the Navy for 50 years. Based in New London, CT he saw much of the world. Member of USS Springfield Base, US Submarine Veterans. He was awarded the Holland Award in Jan., 2016. A life member of Nautilus Alum. Assoc., Inc. Served aboard the USS Nautilus SSN 571. He was retired from AT&T after 35 years. He loved God his, his family, Boy Scouts, the US Navy and it’s submarines. He loved to travel, all boats, homemade cookies and his computer.

Jerome Kubiak 50-52 Eternal Patrol 4/13/2016

Served on: SS-303, SS-483

Jerome Kubiak died April 13, 2016. He was born May 4, 1928 in Royal Oak, MI to Ernest and Elizabeth Kubiak, and was 87 years old. Jerry grew up in Royal Oak, and later lived in Troy, MI for over fifty years. He worked in the tool and dye industry for many years before retiring as the plant superintendent for Tishken Metal Forming.

Jerry served on a submarine in the United States Navy after World War II and during the Korean War. He was very proud of his service to his country, and became involved in different veteran organizations later in life. He was especially active with the American Legion Oxford Post and the Submarine Veterans of Michigan.

Jerry liked to keep active, and enjoyed spending time outdoors. When his children were young, he took them on numerous camping and fishing trips, and those trips continued with his grandchildren, as well. He also hunted often with his sons. Jerry also loved to play golf. He and his wife, Pearl, regularly played together, but he was never able to match her hole in one. Jerry loved to do all of these activities, but it is not a coincidence he did all of this with family, which was the most important part of his life. He was especially close with his grandchildren, and was very excited for his first great-grandchild to be born.

Kenneth Morrow 48-49 Eternal Patrol 4/11/2016

Server on: SS-483

Kenneth Morrow, 87, of Mooresville, passed away on Monday, April 11, 2016, at his residence. He was born on March 19, 1929, in Iredell County, to the late John M. and Beaulah Christenbury Morrow. Mr. Morrow was a graduate of Davidson High School. He was a US Navy veteran, where he served on the Submarine, USS Sea Leopard. Kenneth was a retired Operations Manager for AT&T having 32 years of service. He was a member of Centre Presbyterian Church in Mooresville, where he served as an elder, a deacon, and very active in missions. Mr. Morrow was also a Charter member of Mt. Mourne Volunteers.

George Fanfulik  44-46 Eternal Patrol 3/13/2016

Served on: SS-483

George Fanfulik, 89 of St. Hilaire, MN died peacefully on Sunday, March 13, 2016 at Altru Hospital in

George Lawrence Fanfulik was born March 10, 1927 on the family farm near East Grand Forks, MN the son of James and Beatrice (Ante) Fanfulik. He was baptized and confirmed into the catholic faith at Holy Trinity Catholic Church, Tabor, MN. He attended country school through the 3rd grade in East Grand Forks, and then the family moved to Angus, MN in the spring of 1935 where George went through the 8th grade. He completed the next year of school in Warren, MN.

George enlisted into service with the United States Navy on January 17, 1944. He served at Mendora Base in the Philippine Islands and later was based in Luzon. He then boarded the U.S.S. Leopard and returned to the United States via the Panama Canal to Norfolk, VA. George earned the rank of coxswain. He also received the Victory Medal, Asiatic Pacific Area Campaign Medal, and Philippines Liberation Ribbon. George was Honorably Discharged on July 24, 1946.

He returned to farm with his brothers near Angus, MN; and through the GI Bill was able to earn his High School Diploma. George then went to two years of College with the GI Bill at the Agriculture College, Crookston, MN.

He enjoyed hunting and fishing in his younger years; also enjoyed watching his sons play with the St. Hilaire Bears, watching his granddaughters play basketball; doing word puzzles, playing cards with his sons at the VFW, and going to the casino every Tuesday with Lillian. George was a member of St. Bernard’s Catholic Church, Thief River Falls; life member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 2793, Thief River Falls; and life member of Disabled American Veterans, Crookston.

Donald Edward Murphy 48-49 Eternal Patrol 2/22/2016

Served on: AS-15, SS-483, SS-341, SS-311

Donald Edward Murphy, 83, Kalamazoo, Michigan, passed away on February 22, 2016. Don was born in Black Pond, Missouri on August 11, 1932 to Mr & Mrs Joseph Murphy. However, he was raised by his dear Grandmother Sara Elizabeth Taber. After graduating high school he enlisted in the US Navy and served as a Radioman on a Diesel Class Submarine the USS Chivo USS 341. After leaving the navy Don came to Kalamazoo to work as a Truck Driver with several of his uncles. Eventually Don became an owner operator and finished his career with over 2 million miles without an accident. Don took a 10 years off from trucking and using his skill as a radio operator opened a very successful CB Radio repair shop at what use to be the Half Way House on Sprinkle Rd. Drivers would pass through several states waiting to let Don work on their radios.

Martin C. Arntzen, Jr. 66-67 Eternal Patrol: 2/20/2016

Served on: SS-423, SS-483

Martin (Marty) Chelberg Arntzen, Jr., born February 25, 1942 in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, passed away February 20, 2016 at Hospice at the Chaplaincy at the age of 73. Marty grew up in York, Maine, not far from the Atlantic Ocean. His favorite seafood was Maine Lobster. Marty worked at The Portsmouth Naval Shipyard as a Machinist. He then joined the Navy as a submariner and was stationed in Norfolk, Virginia. Over the years he was assigned to many subs such as the USS Torsk, USS Cloaker, the USS Albacore, the USS Crevalle and the last boat was the USS Sea Leopard. Marty spent over 20 years in the Naval Reserves and was recently inducted in the Holland club with over 50 years of service. Martin and Kathleen met on a “blind date” arranged by her best friend, and were married in 1967. After getting out of active duty he and Kathleen moved to York, Maine. Marty and family moved to Richland in 1975. Marty worked several years as a QA Engineer with many companies at the Hanford site. Marty was involved in many things and organizations over the years. He was a Jaycee, a mason, Precinct Committee Chairman for Benton County Republican Party.

Qualified in submarines on the USS Torsk (SS-423) in 1966 and was a MM1(SS) when he left the Navy.

Lloyd George Mathis 45-46 Eternal Patrol January 28, 2016

Served on: SS-483, SS-243, SS-283, SS-363

Our beloved father and grandfather, Lloyd G. Mathis, 89, passed away peacefully at home on Jan. 28, 2016. Lloyd was born in Salt Lake City, on April 1, 1926 to Ivan John and Mary Parry Mathis. He married Claudia Free on June 28th, 1948 in the Salt Lake Temple. Lloyd was preceded in death by his wife Claudia. Born April 1, 1926,

Lloyd graduated from East High School in 1944 and attended the University of Utah before joining the U.S. Navy. He served in the submarine service during both World War II and the Korean War. After being honorably discharged from the Navy Lloyd returned to the University of Utah and was a lifelong Utah fan.

He worked in a diverse number of positions from an civil engineer with the D&RG Railroad to a self employed contractor. He retired from Martin Marietta Aerospace in 1990, where he worked as an estimator/engineer and contract negotiator.

Leland Kamps 48-53 Eternal Patrol January 28, 2016

Served on: SS-483

Leland Lee E. Kamps, 85, of Bonduel, passed away Thursday, Jan. 28 at home.
Born Dec. 23, 1930 in Lena, to the late Louis and Elsie (Behnke) Kamps, he attended schools in the Lena area and was baptized and confirmed in Lutheran faith. He loved the Lord and was a good, faithful servant every day of his life. At age 17, he enlisted in the United States Navy, attended submarine school in New London, Conn. and reported to the USS Sea Leopard, serving seven years. He married Joan Bouche on May 19, 1975 in Seattle, Wa.
After service, he returned to Wisconsin and became a policeman for the Milwaukee Police Department while attending Marquette University. He left the department after four years and with four of his brothers, worked for Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company, making them the largest single family group working for Northwestern Mutual Life at the time.
In 1975, he moved north and became head chief for the Alaska Marine Highway on the vessel, Matanuska. They returned to Wisconsin in 1983 and spent 25 years in the food industry, owning his own restaurants until retirement. Being raised on a farm and experiencing hardships, he was a lifelong champion for the farmer.
Passionate about the U.S. Constitution, he carried copies in his shirt pocket to hand out and enjoyed discussions about its contents and how it affected Americans. A proud member of the American Legion for many years, he was a life member of the Bonduel VFW.

Herbert Eugene English, MOMM2(SS) December 17, 2015

Served on:  BB-44, BB-42, AH-5, AP-39, AP-34, SS-236, SS-237, SS-275, SS-389, SS-241, SS-483

Qualified in submarines on the USS Trigger (SS-237) in 1943 and was a MOMM2(SS) when he left the Navy.

Herbert E. English, 95, passed from this life December 17, 2015 in Little Rock, Arkansas. He was born February 17, 1920, in Ozark, Arkansas to William and Elizabeth English.

Being raised on a farm, Herbert had no desire to be a farmer. Looking for adventure, he enlisted in the Navy on December 17, 1939. After training, Herbert was assigned to the USS Idaho in Pearl Harbor. Working in the engine room and sleeping in hammocks, conditions were less than ideal. After leaving Hawaii for the East Coast, Herbert was re-assigned at the USS Solace and was headed back for his second tour of duty at Pearl Harbor. Two years to the day after his enlistment, Herbert witnessed the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor. Surviving the attack, Herbert was later transferred to the USS J. Franklin Bell in Alaska, then to submarine duty aboard the USS Trigger-headed back to Pearl Harbor, his third, and final stay. After a few more assignments and the end of the war, Herbert left the Navy.

After a few months off, Herbert re-enlisted in the Air Force. He served at several bases stateside along with Puerto Rico and Bitburg, Germany. Herbert ended his military career upon his retirement from the Air Force on January 30, 1960. Following his military career, he attended barber college and retired from that career as well.

Herbert was a member of Pearl Harbor Survivors, Disabled American Veterans, Veterans of Foreign Wars-American Legion and the Masonic Lodge #38 in Norman, Oklahomahe was of the Methodist faith.

Sea Leopard 1946-49

Robert Asbury Tweedell, TM2(SS)  November 26, 2015

Served on SS-203, SS-192, SS-483

No Obituary available

Born 10/22/1920, Eternal Patrol 11/26/2015, age 95.
Sea Leopard 1945-45 Plankowner

Melvin Tolbert Smith, STC(SS) November 15, 2015

Served on SS-133, SS-0, SS-185, SS-424, SS-408, SS-402, SS-483

Born 1/2/1926 in Benton County, AR, Eternal Patrol 11/14/2015, age 89

Chief Melvin Tolbert Smith, 89. Chief Melvin Tolbert Smith, STC (SS) USN-RET of Gassville, AR sailed his last journey on November 15, 2015, to be with his Lord. Mel was born January 2, 1926, in Lowell, AR to Edward and Goldie Clark Smith. He joined the US NAVY Submarine Service at 17. Mel served on the USS Snapper, USS Quillback, USS Sennett, USS Sea Fox, and the USS Sea Leopard before joining the Navy’s historical service, the HS 7 Anti-Submarine Squadron. Before retiring from the Navy in 1962, he spent two years as a Navy Recruiter at Ontario, Oregon. Mel married Mary Nida in 1983. He is a lifetime member of the USSVI Submarine Veterans Inc. (Holland Club), the former Vice Commander of USS submarine Veterans Base, Mountain Home, AR, and former member of the Idaho Spuds-Regions-Idaho/Montana/Oregon/ Washington.

Sea Leopard 1955-57

Ernest Bryant Evans, RM2(SS)  November 9, 2015

Served on AP-89, SS-483

Born in Darlington, SC September 26, 1927, Eternal Patrol November 9, 2015, age 88.

EVANS, Ernest Bryant, 88, of Rockingham, passed away Monday, November 9, 2015 at First Health Moore Regional Hospital in Pinehurst. Ernest was born September 26, 1927 in Darlington, SC, a son of the late John Jefferson and Ruth Derrick Evans. He served his country for eight years in the US Navy, the last few in the submarine service aboard the USS Sea Leopard, of which he was most proud. Ernest was a member of First Baptist Church in Rockingham and the Rockingham Masonic Lodge, #495, A.F. & A.M.. He retired from the Bell System with almost 40 years service.

Sea Leopard 1951-53

Chester Forsyth, III, MM1(SS)  November 4, 2015

Served on SS-483, SS-338, SSN-653, SS-476, SS-485

No Obituary available

Sea Leopard 1963-63

George Willard  October 28, 2015

Served on SS-483

No Photo available

NEWPORT NEWS – George Ashworth Willard, 73, died Wednesday, October 28, 2015. A native of Flushing, NY he had been a Peninsula resident for many years. He served in the US Naval Submarine Service as a fire control technician on the USS Sea Leopard and the USS Sam Houston. He was a very active and faithful member of Chestnut Memorial United Methodist Church and it’s Volunteers in Missions (VIMS) and loved model trains, card games, woodworking and photography. He retired from Imation in 2002.

 

Joseph Michael Knox, Jr, ENCS(SS) October 10, 2015

Served on SS-483, SS-269, SS-481, SS-274, SS-404, SS-566, SS-419, SS-336,
AK-13, SS-119, SS-287, AS-19, SS-409, SS-490, SS-339, SS-291

No Obituary or Photo available

Born 10/10/1922, Eternal Patrol 10/10/2015, age 93.

Joseph Michael Knox, Jr., 93 of Jacksonville, FL born 10/10/1922, passed away October 10, 2015.

Willard C Gibson, EM3(SS) October 4, 2015

Served on SS-483

No Photo available

Willard C. Gibson, 85, of Wyomissing, passed away Sunday at his home while being cared for and comforted by his family. Born in West Chester, Pennsylvania, on August 29, 1930, he was the son of the late Edward Albert and Addie (Burnham) Gibson.

Willard served in the United States Navy during the Korean War Era on the submarine USS Sea Leopard as an electriciansmate.

He was married to his “beautiful bride,” Nancy McFalls, for sixty years. Willard graduated from Penn State University with a degree in Electrical Engineering and then went on to Rutgers University and received a degree in Mathematics.

Willard was a Senior Engineer for Bell Laboratories, where he worked from 1954 until his retirement in 1989. He worked on cutting edge technologies including designs for the guidance systems of Tel Star and components of the Apollo missions. He had a part in developing many patents that are still used to this day.

He was instrumental in the success behind Bell Tower Salon and Spa, purchasing the original building on North 5th Street back in 1989. Willard was a constant fixture at Bell Tower handling business operations and finances. “Mr. G” was well-loved by Bell Tower staff and guests alike. During his walks in later years, he always stopped by for his smoothie and conversation.

Willard loved the outdoors, especially walking and tending to his garden. Always loving a new adventure, he celebrated his 70th birthday by skydiving. He was an avid reader and loved to travel. He was tirelessly dedicated to his family and community. He was often seen walking Penn Avenue, where he would talk with his neighbors or look for a new friend he hadn’t yet met. He was a member of Cumru Lions Club, coached baseball and was the founder of the Over the Hill Gang Investment Club.

Willard will be remembered for his love of life and great sense of humor.

Sea Leopard 1951-53

Lewis B. Sykes, CAPT  September 9, 2015

Served on DD-724, AM-428, SS-481, SS-483, SS-478

SYKES, Lewis B., CAPT, USN, Ret., 85, died Thursday, Sept. 17, 2015 in Williamsburg, surrounded by his family. He was a longtime resident of Northern Virginia and Virginia Beach and moved with his wife to the Williamsburg Landing Community in 2010. Lewis Blair Sykes was born Dec. 30, 1929 in Clearfield, PA, to Blair and Evelyn Sykes. He grew up as one of 13 children and graduated from Clearfield High School in 1948. After high school, he spent a year in the Army before earning an appointment to the U.S. Naval Academy. He graduated in June 1953 and served aboard the destroyer USS Laffey and the minesweeper USS Dash before he entered submarine school in New London, CT, in 1957. He served aboard the submarine USS Requin before studying oceanography at the University of Washington. After graduate school and his return to Norfolk, he served as executive officer on the submarine USS Sea Leopard and taught anti-submarine warfare at the ASW School. From 1965 to 1967, he was commanding officer of the submarine USS Cutlass. He earned a masters degree in economics from the University of Maryland, where he studied at the Institute for Defense Analysis. From 1972-1978, he served at the Pentagon in the areas of forecasting and systems analysis. He was Chief of Naval Mine Warfare from 1978 until 1981. His military honors include the United Nations Service Medal, the Korean Service Medal, the National Defense Medal, the Navy Expeditionary Medal (Cuba) and the Meritorious Service Medal. His last tour of duty was as commanding officer of the Office of Naval Research, in London. He retired from the Navy in 1983. His retirement lasted exactly three months, and he worked for the next 31 years. He served as a technical advisor and marketing representative to several companies in the United States and abroad, notably SA Marine of Sweden and Pearson Engineering of England. Most recently, he was a technical consultant to Pearson, from which he retired (reluctantly!) in December 2014.

Sea Leopard 1962-64 XO

Paul Bennett Knight, SN(SS)  September 1, 2015

Served on SS-92, SS-483

KNIGHT, Paul Bennett, age 89, of Hampton SC, passed away Tuesday, September 1, 2015, at the Hampton Regional Medical Center in Varnville. Paul was born May 22, 1926, in South Georgia, moved to Florida at the age of 6 and was raised in Gainesville, Florida. At age 17, he joined the United States Navy and served two years in World War II on a submarine [R-14, Sea Leopard] He qualified in USS Sea Leopard (SS-483) in 1946 and was S1c(SS) when released by the Navy. He was a graduate of the University of Florida, and worked for thirty-three years for Southern Bell Telephone Company as a Division Construction Manager in Jacksonville and Miami. He retired in 1981 and moved to a lake home in Central Florida for twelve years. He and his wife, Polly, traveled each summer and visited all forty-eight states and most of Canada. Two whole summers were spent in Alaska. In June of 1991, Paul came to Hampton deer hunting, fell in love with the area, and purchased a two hundred forty-one acre farm in Pond Town where he raised deer, turkeys, and pine trees. Two years later they purchased a beautiful home designed and built by Will Cox andled down. Preacher Tommy Kelly and Paul became hunting buddies for over twenty years. Paul has been a Baptist all of his life and supported all of the churches he attended. Also, Paul and his wife have supported the Billy Graham Ministry for over twenty-five years. He and his wife, Polly, formed a group of concerned citizens for the betterment of the people in the area. They worked on many projects but their number one project was the closing of the Medical Waste Incinerator, which was polluting the air, water and ground in Hampton. It took two and-a-half years of their work plus the Lord’s help.

Sea Leopard 1945-46

Julian Galloway, LCDR  August 17, 2015

Server on 483

Born 8/6/1934, Julian Asa Galloway, of Lexington, died Monday, Aug. 17, 2015, at the age of 81.

He was born in Darlington, son of the late Henry and Elizabeth Lloyd Galloway.

After graduating from Brookland Cayce High School, Mr. Galloway served 23 years in the U.S. Navy retiring in 1975 as a lieutenant commander. He also retired from AT&T after an extensive career in Mesquite, Texas. Julian was a devoted husband and had one true passion and one true love in his life, which was his wife. The bond they shared lasted six decades and he passed away holding her hand.

He had one great passion and love in his life and that was his wife, Bracie. They had a love that overcame all obstacles and endured for over 60 years. He had a twinkle in his eye whenever she was near. She was his purpose for living and his reason for loving. He loved her more the day he left her side than the day they met.

Sea Leopard 1958-60

Edward Everett Horton III, LT  August 13, 2015

Served on 483

EDWARD EVERETT HORTON, III 1927-2015 Surrounded by his loving family, noted offshore industry pioneer Ed Horton passed away peacefully in his home on the evening of Thursday, the 13th of August 2015, at the age of 87. He was born on the 13th of November 1927, in San Gabriel, CA to Winter Davis and Edith (Kendall) Horton. He received his BA in civil engineering from Yale University and his master’s degree in petroleum engineering from the University of Southern California. While at Yale, Ed entered the Navy as a participant in the Holloway Program and was a decorated veteran of the Korean War stationed onboard the USS Helena. A qualified submariner, he also served on the USS Sea Leopard. Following his naval career, he pursued his love of the oil and gas industry. d as a principal engineer for the National Academy of Science on the Mohole project, the original NSF funded deepwater drilling project, Ed contributed to the project’s endeavor that an offshore drilling technological test bed for the then nascent offshore oil industry. He later became the vice president and a board member of Ocean Science and Engineering, one of the most innovative companies of its time in developing first generation floating systems for offshore use. With this dynamic start to his career, Mr. Horton became one of the most recognized inventors in the offshore oil and gas industry. He is the named inventor on what today are considered standard deepwater concepts, spars and tension leg platforms. He was the founder and president of several offshore development companies including Deep Oil Technology which developed and patented the first two generations of spar platforms. Mr. Horton’s leadership, vision and ingenuity were well known among his peers in the offshore industry, and to honor his achievements, he was inducted into the National Academy of Engineering in 2002 after having received the National Academy of Science’s Gibb’s Brothers Medal the prior year for “visionary and innovative concept development and design of off-shore platforms, mooring systems, and related technology that have significantly influenced development of deepwater operations.” Ed was the recipient of many other honors and awards including the lifetime achievement award of the Offshore Technology Conference (1997), Offshore Mechanics Division of the American Society of Mechanical Engineering (1998), Society of Petroleum Engineers (2004), and Petroleum Technology Division of the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (2005). In addition he was named an Offshore Pioneer by the Offshore Energy Center, Ocean Star (2008), was chosen as a Rhodes Petroleum Industry Leader by ASME (2005), and was the recipient of a Hall of Fame Award for OTC Papers in Civil Engineering by the ASCE in 2010. As a member of the American Bureau of Shipping, Ed was currently serving as an advisor on their Offshore Technical Committee. He was also an active member of the Marine Technology Society, American Concrete Institute, Yale Alumni Association, Houston Asia Society, and the Advancement Committee of the Civil and Environmental Engineering Department at Rice University. In more recent years, Ed’s interests were moving in new and creative ways toward floating offshore wind energy, renewable ocean energy, ocean monitoring, new construction methods, and the use of advanced composite materials. Disturbed by refugee loss of life at sea, Ed was recently focused on creating a vessel with a design that could be adapted to evacuate offshore workers. Although he resided in Houston the majority of the year, he was at heart a California man. He and his beloved wife Anne Watts Horton spent a great deal of time traveling the world and at his home in Los Angeles with his family and friends. Edward was a devoted husband, father, stepfather, grandfather, uncle, and cousin to his family and an inspiration and mentor to many others. Together Ed and Anne were members of St. Martin’s Episcopal Church, The Dancers Group and the Paul Jones Dance Club, the Utopia Yacht Club in Lake George, New York, and he was a member of the Cosmos Club of Washington, DC. Ed was creative in his industry as well as his private life. He loved music and movies and took delight in creating wonderful poems, many of which were gathered and immortalized for one of his birthdays in a small leather book. He loved to recite poems, especially to children, and was a guest in several classrooms over the years. He loved to problem solve and no issue was too big or too small to engage his creativity. Preceded in death by his first wife Janet Durst Horton, his parents Winter David and Edith Kendall Horton, and siblings, Judith Munk, Amanda Stork, and Winter Horton, Ed is survived by his beloved wife, Anne Watts Horton of Houstonhis three daughters, Winter Horton Hoffman and her husband Frederic of Santa Monica, CA, June Horton Van Nort of Palos Verdes, CA, and Janet Horton of Santa Fe NM; grandchildren, Jean-Michel Hoffman, Zazou Hoffman, Kendall Van Nort, John Edward Van Nort, Everett Shipp and Austin Shipp. He is also survived by three step-sons, Browne Baker, III and his wife Robyn of Houston, Jeff Baker and wife Pam of Houston, and Mark Baker and wife Bet of Cohasset MA; and step-grandchildren, Katy, Elizabeth, Emily, and Julie Baker; and his brother-in-law Walter Munk along with many beloved nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Sea Leopard 1952-52

 

Clarence C. Boggs, QMCS(SS)  June 16, 2015

Served on SS-481, SS-272, SS-483

No Photo available

Born 3/18/1935, Clarence C. (Larry) Boggs, Jr., 80, passed away on June 16, 2015. He was a native of Greensboro, NC and a long time resident of Virginia Beach, VA.

Clarence, better known as “Larry” by friends and family, served in the U.S. Navy for 23 years on two destroyers and three submarines. After retiring as Senior Chief Petty Officer in 1975, Larry and his wife Hattie moved to Richmond, VA where he became co-owner of Home Craft Builders, Inc. Larry moved back to Virginia Beach in 1995 and continued building homes with other companies in Williamsburg and Hampton Roads area until retiring in 2003.

Larry was President of the Richmond Home Owners Warranty Corp. in 1984, was awarded Home Builders Association of Richmond “Member of the Year” in 1985, and served as President of Home Builders Association of Richmond in 1987. He also served on the Board of Directors of the State of Virginia and National Home Builders Association.

Larry was a 32nd Degree Master Mason and member of Norview Lodge 113, AF & AM, Norfolk, VA. He was also a member of Richmond Scottish Rite Bodies, ACCA Shrine Temple, Richmond, VA, Khedive Shrine Temple, Chesapeake, VA, Royal Order of Scotland, President of Mid Atlantic Shrine Association Cabiri in 2005 and Potentate of ACCA Temple Shriner, Richmond, VA in 1993. He was a member of Fleet Reserve Association #99, the American and International Submarine Veterans Association and an Honorary Kentucky Colonial.

Larry qualified in submarines on the USS Sea Leopard (SS-483) in 1961 and was a QMCS(SS) when he left the Navy.

Sea Leopard 1961-61

Edward William Schuele, QMSN(SS)  June 8, 2015

Served on SS-403, SS-483, SS-484

No Obituary available

Born 12/17/1927
Sea Leopard 1946-48

Richard E. Dempsey,  CDR  March 31, 2015

Served on SSR-573, SS-481, SS-271, SS-406, SSK-1, SS-483, SST-1

Richard was born on April 10, 1933 and passed away on Tuesday, March 31, 2015.Richard was a resident of Shelton, Washington.

1966-68

Lonnie J. Perry, LCDR  February 6, 2015

Served on: SSN-638, SSBN-611, SS-483

Lonnie James Perry, age 80, of Flint Hill, VA passed peacefully on Friday, February 6, 2015 at Fauquier Hospital in Warrenton, VA. He was born in Mesic, North Carolina on June 26, 1934 to the late Hugh and Celia Perry.

After serving his country most honorably and faithfully for over twenty years. First enlisting in the Navy in May 1954, LTC Perry commenced his interesting and varied career at the Naval Training Center, San Diego, California. Following graduation, he attended the electronic Technician Class A School at Treasure Island, California, followed by Basic Submarine School at New London, Connecticut. He then served aboard USS Sea Leopard (SS-483), as Electronics Maintenance Technician, where he qualified in submarines and for duty as Quartermaster of the Watch. In May 1957, Mr. Perry was selected for Naval Enlisted Scientific Education Program (NESEP), subsequently attended the NESEP Preparatory School at Bainbridge, Maryland, followed by four years at Purdue University, where he earned his BS Degree in Electrical Engineering in July of 1961. He attended the Officer Candidate School in Newport, Rhode Island, and was commissioned an Ensign in the US Navy on 17, November 1961. He was selected for Nuclear Power Training in Bainbridge, Maryland, which was followed by assignments at the Nuclear Power Training Unit at West Milton, New York, and the Bettis Atomic Power Laboratory at Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, where he qualified as a Nuclear Power Operator. He then reported to USS JOHN MARSHALL (SSBN-611), where he served as supply Officer. Communications Officer and Damage Control Assistant. During this tour he was awarded his Gold Dolphins, recognizing his completion of qualifications as a submarine officer. He then reported onboard USS WHALE (SSN-638), where he served a Main Power Assistant and Damage Control Assistant. In January 1968, LTC Perry reported to USS FULTON (AS-11), where he worked in the office of Planning and Estimating. In May of that year he was selected for postgraduate education and subsequently attended the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, where in 1970 he received his Master of Science Degree in Mechanical Engineering, and was designated an Engineering Duty Officer. In June 1970, he reported to the Naval Underwater Systems Center. In each of these assignments he has earned the profound respect of his seniors and juniors alike, for his outstanding military and professional qualities. His record of outstanding service throughout his twenty year career reflects the highest standards of professionalism and effective performance.

During his Navy career LTC Perry has earned the right to wear the National Defense Service Medal, the Good Conduct Medal, Silver Dolphins, Gold Dolphins, and the Polaris Patrol Pin with three gold stars. In his final Navy tour at the Naval Underwater Systems Center, Lieutenant Commander Perry has served as Project Officer for the Trident sonar system.

His was a distinguished military career followed by a second career with IBM in Manassas, VA and then retiring to a farm life and Fox Hunting with his wife with Old Dominion Hounds.

1955-57

Richard C Mankovich, EN3(SS)  February 1, 2015

Served on SS-483

No Photo available

MANKOVICH Richard C., 73, of Cape May Court House, NJ and formerly of Park Ridge passed away peacefully on Sunday, February 1, 2015.

Devoted father of Darren Mankovich. Beloved brother of Jackie Fullard and her husband George. Loving uncle of Laurie, Chelsea, Cori and Jordan. Dear friend of Peter Jacobsen. Also survived by his ex-wife, Donna Mankovich.

Before retiring Richard had been a Supervisor for Jaguar Cars, Mahwah, NJ for 10 years.

He was a United States Navy veteran serving aboard the USS Sea Leopard submarine and a member of the Park Ridge Elks Club.

Sea Leopard 1959-62

Alfred Wendell Woodard  January 11, 2015

Served on SS-483 AGSS-569

Alfred Wendell “Woody” Woodard, 84, passed away at his home on Sunday, Jan. 11, 2015, after a long illness. He was born on April 15, 1930, the son of Harold Woodard Sr. and Ruth (Steen) Woodard. Alfred graduated from Hermon High School in 1948 and enlisted in the U.S. Navy, where he would devote nine years of his life serving on several submarines, including the USS Sea Leopard and the USS Albacore. Following Alfred’s time in the U.S. Navy, he returned to Maine and worked at Bomarc Missile, as well as several other places of employment, often working two jobs at a time in order to support his family, until being employed by the FAA, where he would be the chief supervisor for the lighting system at BIA, and other airports in the New England area for the next 25 years, retiring in 1985. Following retirement, he and wife, Marilyn, would enjoy many, many years of living in their retirement home on the Horseback Road in Carmel. Together, Alfred and Marilyn traveled to a variety of places, enjoyed their pool, gardened and lovingly worked on their special little home. Alfred was gifted in many areas. He was an expert mechanic, electrician, plumber and carpenter. In his prime, there was nothing mechanical or in woodworking that he could not take apart, put back together or crmself. In his earlier years, Alfred was often called upon by others for help with a myriad of mechanical, electrical, plumbing and carpentry issues, and he never failed to be there for others, and to do his best. Alfred was most proud of his time in the navy serving on submarines and spoke often of these times. On June 12, 2012, he was given the tremendous gift by the USS Albacore Museum in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, with a day named solely in his honor as a proud member of one of the original sailors on this very special and famous submarine. Alfred loved and excelled at all things outdoors and was a farmer at heart. He was an avid and excellent gardener, growing massive vegetable gardens and creating beautiful floral landscapes. He also had a natural love, innate instinct and kindness toward animals, understanding their ways, whether farm animals, horses, dogs, cats or pet birds.

 

 

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