AFTACAA-WCC Memorials (Death Notices) Of Departed Members

AFTAC ALUMNI ASSOCIATION - WEST COAST CHAPTER
MEMORIALS FOR OUR DEPARTED MEMBERS
(Most recently reported shown first) ALPHA INDEX BY LAST NAME - Click on name to go directly there

Abbott, John	Allison, Jack	Allison, Rosalie	Amerena, Joe	Anderson, Mildred	Armintrout, Willard
Baker, Tommie	Bauman, Vincent	Bressan, Tom	Brewster, Fred	Brown, Alice	Brown, Calvin
Burry, Richard	Celick, Arne	Chamberlain, Richard	Chamberlain, Virginia	Chambers-Jordan, Marian	Davis, Richard
Davis, Robert	Denney, Leonard	Dettmer, Franz 'Herb'	Dunn, Rose	Esping, Jim	Esping, Mary
Ferris, Bo	Ferris, Deannie	Fritts, Steve	Gillmore, Jim	Gomes, Al	Griffin, Richard
Hollstein, Orville	Hopkins, Jackie	Iske, Marge	Johnson, Allen 'AJ'	Johnson, Gayle	Johnson, Joe
Johnson, John 'J.R.'	Johnson, Willis 'Bill'	Jones, Bobby	Kemna, Laurie	Klug, Rose	LaBarre, Gerald
Land, Bob	Lanigan, John	Long, Robert	Lubin, Mary	Lucas, Jim	McGee, Robert 'Doug'
Milligan, Lew	Moran, Michael 'Jerry'	Morrison, Bob	Mullinax, Billy	Paisley, Don	Paquette, David
Pavik, Alvin	Peters, Frank	Pressley, Gerald	Pritchard, Orville	Reece, Wayne	Rheault, Peggy
Rutz, Ernie	Satterlee, 'Satch'	Stephan, 'Bill'	Thompson, George

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AL PAVIK
(Photo fm Obit)

ALVIN L. PAVIK, Col USAF (Ret.)
b. 14-Dec-1933 d. 01-Nov-2024 in Granite Bay, CA

Info received from wife, Ann, as provided to friend Bob Fitzgerald, Webmaster

Colonel Alvin Louis Pavik, 90, passed away on Friday November 1, 2024 at Elim Glen Care Center in Granite Bay after a long and prosperous life filled with a decorated career serving his country and family.

Born on a farm in Pochontas, Iowa on December 14, 1933 to parents Albert and Mary Pavik. He was the third of six children; older brothers Junior and Malvin and younger sister Judy and brothers Vincent and John. He and identical twin Malvin shared an unbreakable bond, and as both of their families would say, telepathic ability, that lasted throughout their life.

Al initially attended the Iowa State College. It was there that he also met the love of his life and future wife, Ann Vislisel. After going to Iowa State, Al was accepted into the Aviation Cadet program and was commissioned a second lieutenant in the Air Force, starting his long distinctive military career. Al received a Bachelor and Master of Science in Electrical Engineering from the University of Illinois, graduating number one in his class from the masters program.

Al's career in the Air Force took him to a number of different assignments, including Ellington AFB in TX, Kessler AFB in MS, Griffiss AFB in NY, McClellan AFB in CA in which during this time he also served in Saigon Vietnam to monitor North Vietnamese penetration throughout Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia, Patrick AFB in FL, and back to McClellan AFB in CA in which he had the distinction in assuming Commander of the Technical Operations Division. He served 31 years, 3 months, and 20 days in the Air Force and retired in 1986 as a full Colonel. (And yes, he knew the exact time and would proudly state it down to the day.) During this time he was highly decorated including the Legion of Merit, Bronze Star, Meritorious Service Medal with one oak leaf cluster among many other recognitions. Just weeks before his retirement, Al was recognized for leading the effort to analyze samples taken from the Chernobyl accident. Throughout Al's military career, while he loved and excelled solving complex technical challenges, his biggest pleasure was the ability to mentor and support so many others. Whenever asked what he enjoyed most about the Air Force, he would always answer "the people". This was evident when he was awarded in 2017 the high distinction of the Air Force Technical Application Center (AFTAC) Wall of Honor at Patrick Air Force Base, which recognized his ability to work with all ranks and ranges of individuals including Air Staff and national and international level scientists.

After retiring from the Air Force, while never one to sit idle, he immediately started helping his friend Fred Zanetta build homes for his 'gap year'. He then took a job as Program Manager for Motorola and moved to Arizona for 12 years before fully retiring back to Granite Bay in 1999. While in Arizona, he resumed golf and many weekends he and Ann would be found golfing at Williams Air Force Base. Once in full retirement, Al's biggest pleasure was visiting each of his 8 children and their families who lived across the country, to help with whatever projects he could. He would accomplish a year's worth of work in one week's time, and this provided him the greatest joy. His other pleasures in retirement was maintaining his beautiful home and grounds in Granite Bay and also on the "Hilltop", a 20-acre parcel of land that had views of Folsom Lake. Everything that could be found on his property in Granite Bay, the streams, bridges, sidewalks, patios, fences, playhouse, treehouse, gazebo, garden, numerous trees, and expansive lawn, was conceived, built or planted, and tended by him. He and Ann also enjoyed their time supporting St. John's Catholic Church in Folsom and being involved in a number of social groups through the church where they met good friends.

None of his achievements would have been possible without the love and support of his wife of 68 years, Ann. Al and Ann married on October 1, 1956 in Lisbon, Iowa. Immediately after their honeymoon they moved to Texas to start their life. Ann has been a foundation throughout Al's life, including supporting their various moves, taking care of their then 7 children while Al was away for 1 year in Vietnam, and in his later years, being his caregiver after being diagnosed with Parkinson’s and then his daily visitor at Elim Glen Care Center.

In addition to the love of his country and his wife, Al above all loved and was so proud of his 8 children and their families. Al is the beloved father and father-in-law of Diane and Sam Richie, Kate Bechtold and Kim Saal, John and Melissa Pavik, Laurie and Fred Gomes, Michael and Andrea Pavik, Patricia and Christopher Cook, David and Carole Pavik, and Elizabeth and Charles Seeley. He believed in each of his children and taught us strong work ethic and to strive for high goals. There was no doubt the pride in his voice when he talked about each of his kids.

Al was also the honored grandfather of 19 grandchildren - Cheryl (David), Kali (Nko), Jillian (Drew), Eric (Katelyn), Emily, Samantha, Jason, Bryan (April), Brad, Alexandra (Evan), Ben (Madison), Megan, Madison, Ty, Audrey, Nathan, Zachary, Grace, and Zoe. There were many summers that some of the grandkids would come and visit for a few weeks. Some of their summer adventures included visiting the Grand Canyon, "helping" them move from AZ back to CA which entailed loading, driving, and unloading the U-Haul, and Al giving them the keys to the old Mazda so they could learn to drive in the backfield.

Al and Ann's legacy also lives on in their 10 great grandchildren with the 11th due in March 2025. He also leaves behind a number of nieces, nephews, and cousins who he always enjoyed visiting during family reunions, weddings, and other special events.

Al was predeceased by his parents, Albert and Mary, brother Junior, sister Judy, and daughter-in-law Cindy. Al is now also able to be reunited with his first two children, Ann and Diane, who both died shortly after they were born.

The entire Pavik family would like to thank Elim Glen Care Center, especially Jennifer Lee and Farah Cuccia, for their loving support of Al for the last 3 years of his life. While in his last years of life in which Parkinson's disease took over, our dad still had the dignity and presence in which he held for his entire life. When the Elim staff would address him as "Colonel", you could almost see the proud sense of smile emerge on his face, as he recalled the impactful and meaningful life he truly led.

In lieu of flowers, we would like donations to go to Elim Glen Care Center. If you do wish to donate, please send a check, specifying in honor of Al Pavik, to Elim Glen Care Center, 6257 Eureka Rd, Granite Bay, CA 95746. The family will work directly with Elim Glen to ensure the donation goes directly in supporting the residences in honor of our dad.

Visitation will be Sunday November 10th from 5:00-7:00 pm with a rosary beginning at 6:30 pm at Miller Funeral Home, 507 Scott Street, Folsom, CA. Funeral services will be Monday November 11th at 10:00 am at St. John’s Catholic Church at 307 Montrose Dr, Folsom CA followed by burial at Lakeside Memorial Lawn Cemetery at 1201 Forrest Street, Folsom CA with full military honors. There will be a reception directly afterwards at St. John’s Catholic Church Garden Reception room, which all are welcome.

This obituary was found at www.millerfuneralhomefolsom.net

A recollection:
I knew, and respected, Al when he and I worked at the 1155th Tech Ops Sqdn, McClellan Central Laboratory (MCL). He was a "true blue" Officer who you could always trust. After retirement, and when Al was part of our West Coast Chapter Officers, he and Ann held a Christmas party at their home, which my wife, Leilani, and I enjoyed very much. Rest In Peace, Al! .................. Bob Fitzgerald, AFTACAA-WCC Webmaster [MSgt USAF (Ret.), MCL 4/1964-4/1967 & 10/1969-2/1977.]

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ERNIE RUTZ
Ernie Rutz fm family

(Family provided photos
cropped for this page)

ERNEST F. "ERNIE" RUTZ JR., Lt. Col USAF (Ret.)
b. 19-Apr-1939 d. 30-Dec-2023 in Auburn, CA

Info prepared by Wife, Barbara, was sent to us by Grandson Johnathan

Ernest Rutz passed away peacefully on December 30, 2023 in his home. "Ernie" was first commissioned from Rutgers University in 1961. His first tour was attending Penn state, joining AFTAC from 1963 to 1979 after graduation and spending his career with people he loved. He made forever friendships.

In retirement, Ernie enjoyed golfing, fishing, boating, poker, woodworking, RV camping and traveling.

We are blessed to have family near us; son David with partner Christine Larimer, granddaughter Anastasia, and grandson Johnathan.

Ernie and Barbara were married 61 years and met in high school. Ernie's cremains are interned at Sacramento Valley National Cemetery in Dixon, California.

The following was sent to AFTACAA-FL by Tom Niquette the day after Ernie passed away: (Ernie) "was first assigned to the 1155 laboratory, Then to Det. 407, * then back to the 1155th, then USAF Air Command and Staff college. Then assigned to Hq AFTAC. In 1978 he was assigned back to the 1155 sq. Laboratory. (This) is all that I can remember about Ernie. ... Tom"
Note: *The additional text was received by phone from Barbara Rutz on 3/11. ... bf

A recollection: I knew Ernie when he was a Captain working in McClellan Central Laboratory (MCL) Chemistry Unit in the 1960's and 1970's. I was in MCL Laboratory Operations part of that time, but my best friend, and daughter's Godfather, Charles R. "Ray" Rheault (dec.), was NCOIC of Chem and worked with Ernie. I know Ray enjoyed working with Ernie, and I know from my own interactions with "Captain" Rutz, he was always fun & pleasant to be around and work with, even during some long "flap" hours and days of hard work. RIP Ernie!
.................. Bob Fitzgerald, AFTACAA-WCC Webmaster [MSgt USAF (Ret.), MCL 4/1964-4/1967 & 10/1969-2/1977.]

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MARY ESPING
photo cropped from
19May2007 Picnic album
(Ken Breitwieser, Photog)

Mary and Jim Esping

MARY ESPING
with husband Jim Esping
photo from Mary's
East Lawn Obituary

MARY ESPING
b. 1924 d.23-Sep-2023 in Sacramento, CA

(Notified by Dale Klug after contact from Mary's Daughter Linda)

Mary was born in Kansas in 1924. She shared many wonderful stories of growing up on the family farm with her parents Leo and Lena, her sister Lorena and her brother, Ray.

She married our father Jim Esping in 1945. After spending the first several years of marriage as co-owners of a hardware store, they began their adventure as a career military family after Dad was recalled in 1952. Throughout the many moves Mom always made every house a warm and welcoming home and place of stability.

Her love for the Lord, her family and friends were the focal point of her life. After celebrating her 99th birthday with family and friends she departed her earthly home to her Heavenly home with Jesus on September 23, 2023.

Mary is survived by her son Chuck, daughter Linda and husband Tim, beloved Grandchildren Alison, Joshua, Erik and Stephanie and husband Nick, and Great Grandchildren Elias and Adelyn.

We are so thankful God gave us such an incredibly loving, kind and caring Mom and Grandma who reflected His love in so many ways. We miss her so much, but she will always be close in our hearts until we see her again.

Memorial suggestion, Mom's favorite devotional was Our Daily Bread: http://www.odb.org">.

To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Mary, please visit our flower store.

Note: The above Obituary published by East Lawn Cemetery: https://obits.eastlawn.com/mary-esping.
Note: Mary's husband Jim Esping also has a memorial entry on this website "Departed" page.
(See the Index at the top of this page for the link. .. Bob Fitzgerald, Webmaster)

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Lewis 'Lew' Milligan
Lewis "Lew" Milligan

(Photos from from Obit)

LEWIS "LEW" MILLIGAN Jr., SMSgt USAF (Ret.)
b. May-1931 d. 21-Sep-2022 in Roseville, CA

(information as received from Dale Klug)

Lewis Milligan Jr. died peacefully on Sept 21, 2022 in Roseville, CA, after a valiant battle with Alzheimer's. He was 91 years old.

Lewis was born in May 1931 to the late Lewis and Mildred Milligan in Coshocton, Ohio. He graduated from Coshocton High School in 1949. Lewis married his high school sweetheart, Shirley Ann Latier on July 2, 1951. They were married for 69 years upon her death on Sept 23, 2020.

Lewis enlisted in the U.S. Air Force in Oct 1951. He was stationed at Charleston AFB, Bolling AFB, McClellan AFB, Allbrook AFB, and finally back to McClellan AFB. In 1972, he retired from the Air Force and continued working Civil Services until 1994.

Lewis loved softball. He pitched for many base teams. He could throw a meean fastball which earned him the nickname "Hum Lew"!

Lewis really enjoyed his time wheen stationed in the Canal Zone. Fishing the ocean and the lakes in his prized boat with family and friends was his passion. Lewis always had to have the best lawn on his street and he biggest tomatoes in his garden. He was happiest when spending time with his family and communicating with his many friends across the country.

Lewis is survived by his three children, Stephanie (Jim), Kevin, and Michael. His three grandchildren, Erika, Elandra, and Keely. His greatgrandchildren, Tyler and Mason.

To celebrate his life please display your American Flag and have a "Run and Coke", he would really like that.

Dale Klug added: Lew was stationed at 1155th, EL360, and 1158th. After retirement from active duty he worked at McClellan AFB Personnel office.

Bob Fitzgerald, Webmaster added: Although Lew was not a member of the AFTACAA West Coast Chapter, he was well known and respected by many of us "Old Timers" from the 1155th TechOpsSqdn and from his participation with me on the 1999 AFTAC WORLDWIDE REUNION COMMITTEE, a well attended event which was held in Sacramento just prior to, and in conjunction with, the official deactivation of the "Tech Ops Division" (TOD), which is what the organization was called by that time.

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Robert 'Bob' Land
(Photo from Patti & from Obit)

ROBERT DALE "BOB" LAND
b. 29-Jan-1949 d. 28-Jun-2021 in Boise, Idaho

(as notified by Ken Breitwieser.)

On Monday, June 28th 2021, the world lost a great man in Robert Dale Land who passed away at 72 years old in Boise, Idaho. Bob was born on January 29th, 1949 in Hollister, CA to Charles and Mary Land. After graduating San Benito High School in 1968, he joined the Air Force in 1969 where he served tours in Spain and Korea. Once retiring from the USAF after 20 years in 1989, Bob began a 26 year career working for the state of California for the Air Resources Board and retired in 2015.

Bob loved his Harley-Davidson, the 49ers, and going on cruises all around the world.

He is preceded in death by his mom and dad, older brothers Chuck and Mike, and older sister Nora. He is survived by his wife of 15 years Patti and former wife Melissa, daughters Danielle, Stephanie, and Kimberly and sons John and Chris. He was Papa Bob to grandkids Dustin, Alyssa, Carli, Aleah, and Brayden.

A celebration of life for Bobbo will be held on July 24th, 2021 at 1pm at the Eagles Hall on 1940 Mulberry St in Chico.
Note: Bob's obit is available with 'Guest Book' entry as published in:
< the Chico Enterprise-Record> on July 14, 2021.
Note: Bob Land was a Life member of the AFTAC Alumni Association - West Coast Chapter.

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Joe Johnson
(Photo from Obituary)

Joe Johnson, - WCC 2016 Picnic

Joe Johnson
(Photo fm WCC 2016 Spring Picnic)

JOSEPH MANLEY JOHNSON
b. 22-Jun-1930 in Jamestown, ND d. 14-Apr-2021 in Carmichael, CA

(Via E-mail from Joe's Son, Robert "Bob" Johnson).

Joseph Manley Johnson, born 1930, a native of Jamestown, North Dakota, passed away peacefully on April 14,2021, in Carmichael, California. He is survived by his brother Jerome Johnson, son Robert Johnson, and daughter Carol Bowman, granddaughter Kristen Bowman, and grandson, James Bowman III. He was preceded in death in 2013 by his beloved wife, Gayle. (Note: Gayle's "Departed" page entry is in the list on this website. ...bf, Webmaster.) Joseph served 23 years in the U.S. Air Force during the Cold War era with the 1155th Technical Operations Squadron, service that took him across the United States and Pacific many, many times. After Air Force retirement, he greatly enjoyed a second wind in retail management. Joseph was active with his Air Force unit's (AFTAC) alumnae association, serving as the California chapter President*. His continuing friendships with these great people were a constant in his retirement years.

To his family, Grandpa Joe was always the iconic Sargent: get it done, get it done now, get it done right. Joe accrued so many great life experiences from the farm in ND, his travels in Asia, his and Gayle's trips across the U.S. to visit MLB baseball parks, family camping (especially in Hawaii and Trinity County), and his colleagues in the Air Force. The weekend before his death, he entertained all his family members with his great reminiscences.
Joseph will be interred at the Sacramento Valley National Cemetery in Dixon, joining Gayle.
Note: The above obit is available with 'Guest Book' entry at: https://www.forevermissed.com/joseph-manley-johnson/about.

Comments added by Bob Fitzgerald, WCC Webmaster: To say that Joe Johnson was an active and respected member of the AFTAC Alumni Association - West Coast Chapter ("WCC") would be an understatement. * Joe held the position as the first President of the WCC (1999-2001), then repeated in that position (2005-2007) and again as Acting President/VP (2015-2017). Joe also served the WCC as Vice President for a number of terms.
... In addition to those important positions held by Joe, he also did an outstanding job as the WCC Chairman of the AFTAC Worldwide Reunion Committee for reunions held in Sacramento on 13-15 May 2011 and again on 15-18 Jun 2017. (Reunion photos are available on this website "Albums" page.)

Joe was also honored to be selected as the AFTAC Alumni Association "Alumni Of The Year" (AOY) for the year 2002. That award was formally presented to Joe at the May 2003 Worldwide reunion held in Florida, and also with a nice article on Joe published in the March 2003 issue of the "Post Monitor" newsletter.
(Reference: http://www.aftacaa.us/). Look for "Archived Post Monitors" and select March 2003, or .....
Just click here to get that issue: < March 2003 Post Monitor Newsletter>.

Joe was a good friend who will be greatly missed by all of us, especially those of us in the WCC who have served office and/or committee positions right along with him. May he rest in peace!

If you have comments/stories about your experience(s) with Joe, send those by E-mail to: < Don King>, Depot Fallout Editor. Thank you ... bf, Webmaster

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Mildred "Millie" Anderso
(Photo from Husband "Dick")

MILDRED "MILLIE" ANDERSON
b. 26-Oct-1935 in Hancock, MI d. 03-Oct-2020 in Cameron Park, CA

(As reported by husband, Richard A. "Dick" Anderson.)

Millie was born on October 26, 1935, to Hilda and Fred Tossava in Hancock, Michigan. She attended grade and high school in Hancock. In her Junior year,1952, she met Dick Anderson and they were wed on May 28, l955 at St. Peter & St. Paul's Lutheran Church in Hancock. They had three children: Andy, Janet and Leif, and were married for 65 years.

Dick was a USAF pilot for 20 years and had many missions that took him to "faraway places with strange sounding names", sometimes for weeks at a time. Millie manned the home front during those times. In 1973, Millie took a job with the State of California, Department of Conservation. She was a receptionist in the Division of Resource Conservation, a secretary to the Resource Conservation Commission, and Executive Secretary to the State Geologist in the Division of Mines and Geology. In 1985, Millie became Executive Secretary to the Chief of the Division of Oil and Gas. Dick also worked for the State of California after retiring from the USAF in 1974, and in December 1986, they both retired from State service. Millie and Dick enjoyed many years of retirement together. Summers were spent living on their boat docked in Sheboygan, WI. Days of sport fishing for salmon and trout were enjoyed. Several couples from LOTH ["Light Of The Hills" Lutheran Church in Cameron Park, CA] visited us on our boat and enjoyed a unique day of fishing on Lake Michigan with us. In the fall Millie and Dick hunted deer in the mountain country of NE Utah. Millie bagged a buck every year they hunted. She was an excellent shooter and seldom missed her target. Millie was an avid counted cross stitch enthusiast. She had the patience of Job and spent many long hours stitching beautiful pictures. In later years they purchased a motor home and made annual trips to their childhood homes in Wisconsin and the Upper Peninsula of Michigan.

Millie is survived by her husband (Dick), daughter Jan Deakle, son and daughter-in-law Leif & Lisa Anderson, and six grandchildren, April, Rudi, Eli, Danny, Briana, Matthew and great-grandson Ayden and great-granddaughter Makinzy, sister-in-law Nancy J Anderson of Seymour WI, as well as many other extended family and caring friends. Their son Andy preceded her in death in 1978.

Viewing will take place at Green Valley Mortuary funeral home from 9:30 AM to 11:30 AM on Tuesday, October 13 [2020]. Private burial will follow at 1:30 PM at East Lawn Sierra Hills Memorial Park. A memorial service will take place at Light of the Hills Lutheran Church in Cameron Park, CA on Saturday, October 17, at 11:00 AM, with a reception to follow.

[Personal information added by Major Richard A. "Dick" Anderson, USAF (ret)] "I was an aircraft commander on the WC-135 at the 55th Weather Squadron. I had a degree in Science Engineering and was an Aircraft Commander on C-54. Hq USAF contacted me to see if I was interested in going to the 1155th Sq. Lt Col Esping and Maj Bird interviewed me and that is how I got transferred to the 1155th. I transferred to the 1155th TOS in July 1971 and was an Electronics Officer in "F" Troop until 1972 when F Troop was disbanded. The Airborne Ops at that time was transferred to Alexandria HQ and I became the OIC of an Operating Location (OL) in the 1155th TOS building and I directed air operations that Lt Col Esping did previously. I reported to Lt Col Mason at AFTAC Hq. I directed airborne operations then using 55th Weather Squadron WC-135 and WC-130 aircraft and crews. I directed sampling missions and several Pony Express missions out of Midway Island during that time. There were 4 SEO's with me then. Eventually AFTAC Hq transferred me back to the 1155th Sq and I became the 1155th's Operations Officer under Col [Cal] Brown. I retired on Feb 28, 1974. I have many fond memories of my time with the 1155th."

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John Lanigan
(Photo from Lanigan FB entry)

John Lanigan - WCC 2019 Picnic

John Lanigan
(Photo from WCC 2019 Spring Picnic)

JOHN EDWARD LANIGAN
d. 17-Dec-2020 in Yuba City, CA

Per AFTACAA FL Chapter eALLert Notice: (Cut and pasted from John Lanigan [probably Son] FB page).

"Hello to all of John's friends, I am saddened to have to say these words; John has come home to his father, our savior, today, December 17, Year of our Lord 2020. He is survived by his wife Dorothy and his 3 children, and 3 grandchildren, two stepson[s] and their families, and many, many loving friends. He is missed and will be missed by all of us. Rest in peace John Edward Lanigan."

The published obituary is as follows: LANIGAN - John Edward Lanigan, 91, of Yuba City, CA, passed away December 17, 2020. Arrangements are under the direction of Lipp & Sullivan Funeral Directors, (530) 742-2473. To Plant Memorial Trees in memory, please visit our Sympathy Store.
MEMORIAL EVENTS No memorial events are currently scheduled. To offer your sympathy during this difficult time, you can now have memorial trees planted in a National Forest in memory of your loved one. Funeral services provided by Lipp & Sullivan Funeral Directors, 629 D Street, Marysville, CA 95901 (530) 742-2473.

See John's actual obituary as Published in Appeal Democrat on Dec. 30, 2020.
The Appeal Democrat of Yuba, Sutter, Colusa

Note: John was a Life member of the AFTAC Alumni Association - West Coast Chapter (WCC). He and his wife Dorothy were regular attendees at the AFTAC reunions held in Sacramento, our annual WCC Spring Picnics & our Fall Socials. John will be missed. May he rest in peace. Our prayers are with Dorothy and all the Lanigan family. ... Bob Fitzgerald, WCC Webmaster

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Don Paisley
(Photo from Marcy Paisley)

DONALD LEE PAISLEY
b. 08-May-1935 d. 13-Nov-2020 at home in Hidden Valley Lake, CA

(As notified and presented by Don's widow, Marcy Paisley.)

Donald Paisley, 85, died peacefully at his home in Hidden Valley Lake California. Don was born at home to Norman and Dorothy Paisley on May 8, 1935. He is survived by his loving wife of 41 years, Marcene (Marcy) Paisley and his step-daughter, Tonya Rochester. By a previous marriage to Beverly Beyer, he had two sons Denny and David Paisley and two daughters Diana O'Malley and Deb Parker. He has 16 grandchildren, 33 great grandchildren, and 3 great-great- grandchildren, all girls, who are to be born in the next few months.

Don served honorably for 20 years in the Air Force and retired as a TSgt. His various jobs were to monitor the Nuclear Test Ban Treaty for the United States and our allies. He worked for the Technical Operations Division (TOD) at McClellan AFB, CA. Don was rehired by TOD as a civilian, and he retired a second time as a GS12 Program Manager. At that time, Don was presented the Distinguished Federal Civilian Service Award. Don worked as a contractual consultant for the Air Force Technical Applications Center (AFTAC) at Patrick AFB, FL. from 2003 'till 2007. He helped to design the new laboratory and procure specific laboratory equipment for the Nuclear Measurements Department.

Don was cremated by the Neptune Society. He will be interred in Elizabeth, IL in the Spring of 2021. He will be missed by his family, friends, and military associates.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to the Paralyzed Veterans organization.

See Don's actual obituary and guest book as published in the: < Lake County Record-Bee >

Note: Don was a Life member of the AFTAC Alumni Association - West Coast Chapter (WCC). He and I worked together in various units of the McClellan Central Laboratory (MCL), part of the 1155th TechOpsSq, during the mid-to-late 1960's and 1970's. He was a good friend who will be missed by us and all who knew him. ... Bob Fitzgerald, WCC Webmaster

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Robert 'Bob' Long
(Photo from Lee Miller)

ROBERT . "BOB" LONG
b. 07-Aug-1937 d. 11-Oct-2020 in Cameron, Missouri

(AFTACAA FL alerted on FB, "AFTAC Alumni ...", by Sean Ryan, AFTACAA, with entry from Lee Miller.)

Here is Robert Long's obituary. Please accept Echovita's sincere condolences.

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the death of Robert Long of Cameron, Missouri, who passed away on October 11, 2020, at the age of 83, leaving to mourn family and friends. Family and friends can light a candle as a loving gesture for their loved one. Leave a sympathy message to the family in the guestbook on this memorial page of Robert Long to show support.

He was loved and cherished by many people including: his parents, Robert Sheridan and Ethel Sheridan (Roberts); his husband Lee Miller; his daughters, Kimberly Shafstall of Kansas City, MO and Roberta "Robbie" Long; and his step-son Correy Miller of Cameron, MO. He was also cherished by several grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

NOTE: This information will (also) be posted at the AFTACAA Website, and published in the Post-Monitor. (As well as AFTACAA-WCC's "Depot Fallout" newsletter.)

AFTACAA FL Chapter provided the above obituary and the online link to it as well as this additional comment:
"Bob is in our master database identified as serving AFTAC 1961-75 at several detachments and a member of both the CA Chapter as well as the AFTACAA." Note: Bob Long was a Life member of the AFTAC Alumni Association - West Coast Chapter.

Click here for --> Published Obituary & Guestbook

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William 'Bill' Stephan

(Photo obtained by Ken Breitwieser from Bill's family)

WILLIAM A. "BILL" STEPHAN
b. 29-Dec-1942 in Paynesville, MN d. 02-Sep-2020 in Roseville, CA

(First alerted by Alan Cramlet, the following is as published in the Sacramento Bee on 9/9/20.)

On Wednesday, September 2, 2020, William August Stephan, loving husband and father of two, passed away at age 77. Bill was born in Paynesville, Minnesota to Raymond and Florence (Flewell) Stephan. He served in the United States Air Force for 26 years and California's Strong Motion Instrumentation Program for 12 years. On Sept. 12, 1986, he married Darlene Marie (Tino) Stephan. He has two children from a previous marriage: Kimberly Stephan Cabral of Eastham, MA and Peter Scot Stephan of O'Fallon, IL. Bill has three grandchildren: William Eugene Stephan, Daniel Cabral, and Michael Cabral. Bill's beloved animal kingdom included his dog, Forrest, who could be found walking Bill every day at the local park and his two cats, Pumpkin and Acorn, who could be found sleeping on top of Bill every day after the walk. Bill also had a passion for woodworking, creating extraordinary furniture and turnings that are well on their way to becoming family heirlooms. Bill was preceded in death by his father, Raymond, his mother, Florence, brothers Dave and Bob, and sister Patricia. He is survived by his wife Darlene, his children Kim and Scot, his brother Richard, and his three grandchildren.

A viewing will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, September 11th, 2020 followed by a graveside service at 11:00 a.m. with AF funeral honors at the Calvary Cemetery and Funeral Center, 7101 Verner Ave., Citrus Heights. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to United Through Reading, 1455 Frazee Rd., Suite 500, San Diego, CA 92108.

Click here for --> Sacramento Bee Published Obituary with Guest Book Entries

Note: Bill was a Life member of the AFTAC Alumni Association - West Coast Chapter.

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Rose Dunn
(Photo from 19May2018 WCC Picnic)

ROSE LEE DUNN
b. 03-Jan-1928 in Shamrock, OK d. 18-Jul-2020 in North Highlands, CA

(As received from Rose's Daughter-in-law, Rae Howard, via Email to Bob Fitzgerald.)

Rose Lee Dunn, as described by Rae Howard, Rose's Daughter-in-law:
I've had to make a few calls to extended family and freinds and a few things stand out about my mother-in-law: she was always spunky as hell, she was the cornerstone of the immediate and extended family, glue for beloved friends. She fiercely loved her sisters and spoke of them with great joy and admiration. Her sister Norma lived next door for 20 years, not all of them peaceful but loving nonetheless. No matter your guilt or consequence you could always find shelter and love at her home. Pots of coffee were always at the ready for the wayward neighbor to come in and chat away. More than one call came in the middle of the night with a Dunn at the ready to help.

This simple girl from Shamrock Oklahoma born of Nixie Pearl McNabb and Charles Everett Workman, both southern immigrants from Missouri heading the call of the oil fields, was the matriarch of the family. Her motto was "you know right from wrong, do right". I can't tell you how many times I heard this phrase and I agree Rosie, whole heartedly.

She loved her traditions, especially Christmas. After going through some of her belongings I came across a picture of my husband dressed in a Santa suit, because in her household, handing out presents was not complete without dressing for the job! She had a full shed dedicated to just Christmas decorations, and when I say it was full I'm not kidding. Year round I had reminders of her joy in the family coming together at Christmas, many decorations never made it to the shed and many closets were used for overflow.

She has been indulging in a daily Pepsi habit since 1945, the year before she graduated from Shamrock High School. She played defense for the basketball team with her best life-long friend Iris. Iris was tall and Rose not so much, people about town called them Mutt and Jeff. Rose thought this was hilarious. After Rose and Iris graduated from high school and secretarial school, Iris became married to Lucky and Lucky was friends with Jim. How fortunate is it to find a thoughtful kind man to marry and keep as your own and have his best friend married to your best friend. A score indeed.

Her undying Pepsi and Spam consumption along with her confounding physical hardiness, I harbor a belief that her body would better serve our country by being studied rather than buried. She was the very last of all of her 8 siblings to get to the final journey. She didn't drink alcohol and didn't smoke but she loved her convenience foods, salty snacks and Little Debbie cakes. I would comment about the quality of her diet to my beloved husband Larry and he would say "oh, it used to be so much worse". Even so, her driving days ended just 5 months before she passed at 92 and 1/2 years old and quite frankly I believe this had more to do with the COVID-19 restrictions than anything else.

One of her greatest accomplishments, from the enthusiastic description of it, was her learning to drive at age 40. Just before her 91st birthday she took her written driving test and aced it to everyone's surprise and horror. Her plan was to retake the test at 95 if her eyes would just hold out. She was independent, resolute and proud, I never saw her knocked off her throne. She was one tough bird.

She took the Sacramento Bee for all the 64 years she lived in North Highlands. She engaged in politics regularly and liked being up to date on her news. She loved the Wednesday paper, the sale adds that accompanied it and planned her outings accordingly. She knew her neighbors and kept in touch until they died. She was like that - a community keeper.

The year 1956, when she purchased her home, was the same year she brought her son Larry from the hospital as the last on-base delivery at McClellan Air Force Base. She was a loyal member of the wives club of the 1155th (Tech Ops Squadron ...ed). and was proud of her husbands top secret work repairing the NORAD communication systems around the world. She didn't actually know what he did until chatting with other attendees at an 1155th reunion after the Berlin Wall fell in 1990 when his work became de-classified and he had long been retired.

Rose was lucky if nothing else, but she experienced her hardships. Her beautiful boy Gus died before the age of 1 in 1952. Jim, that wonderful lifelong partner she called Mr. Grumpy passed at the young age of 66 in 1992. Her handsome, popular, intelligent baby boy Jimmy born in 1953 died at the age of 59 in 2012. The family had struggles but she kept everyone close and together even when some would decide to abandon. She is survived by her only grandchild Mikayla and her Son Larry and of course me; her daughter-in-law, Rae.

My last memory of Rosie was her toddling behind her walker, Pepsi bottle in hand, spam sandwich on the seat (midnight snacks were a thing for her) moving with determination, and a spunkiness I always admired, towards her bed chamber. Her son tucked her in bed, positioned her Pepsi and spam sandwich strategically, kissed her goodnight, and said he loved her. The next morning we found her at 7 am peaceful and gone. That day was July 18th, 2020. Her death certificate says she died of cardiac arrest.

She will be put to rest on top of her lifelong partner sweet Mr. Grumpy, next to her son Jimmy and sister Velma with her beloved Pepsi bottle at the East Lawn Mortuary. Her two kitties, Lucky and Pumpkin, will migrate into our own family to live out their days.

Her services, because we are in the deep end of a pandemic, will be filmed with Larry, Mikayla and myself only. We would like to offend everyone equally - no favorites :). The video will be uploaded on YouTube and on East Lawn's Memorial site, please add your stories and comments we would love to hear from you. East Lawn Website Obituary.

Rose was a LIFE member of the AFTAC Alumni Association - West Coast Chapter. ... bf, Webmaster

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"Deannie" Ferris
(Photo from obit)

ROBERTA "Deannie" (Meyer) FERRIS
b. 1938; d. 14-Mar-2017 in Redding, CA

(Thanks to Dave Price, WCC Membership Chairman, for a notice of her passing & John Horsch, AFTACAA-FL, for finding her obit.)

Deannie (Meyer) Ferris departed this world peacefully March 14, 2017 at Shasta Regional Medical Center, Redding, CA. surrounded by family and friends. She passed with the same quiet charm that she lived her life. Born in Roseburg, OR in 1938, Deannie was preceded in death by her parents, Roberta and Robert Laughlin, her brother Terry Laughlin and husbands Rich Meyer and Bo Ferris.

Deannie had a life-long interest in the arts. She was a modern dance enthusiast in high school, played the piano, created wonderful line drawings & sculptures, and painted wonderful works in various media. She loved all kinds of brain twisters, especially crossword puzzles. She was well (and widely) read. Her art always had an interesting twist, including trout intertwined with blown up pieces of tires, and fruit from her yard incorporated in mine buckets or ropes, or other sentimental items.

Deannie began her career as a legal secretary in 1961, working for the Trinity County District Attorney. She was a member of the Weaverville Jaycee-ets and was involved in everything from little league baseball, Easter Egg Hunts, Halloween events, and the Big Foot Days Celebration. In 1962, she made an unsuccessful bid for the Trinity County Clerk office. In 1964, her long beautiful legs got her a role with a group of women who performed a can-can dance for the annual Big Foot Days celebration. In 1965 the family relocated to Redding. Deannie's former boss, Donald Kennedy, along with his partner Lee Lopez, hired her to work in their law firm where she worked for over twenty years. She would later work for Mr. Dugan Barr at his law firm.

Deannie was a Shasta High School Music and Sports Booster. She skillfully balanced family, work and social life throughout the lives of her boys. She kept her dream of being an artist alive, and sowed many seeds along the way. Attending various classes at Shasta College, she studied everything from Auto Mechanics and Woodworking to Glass Blowing and Sculpture. She challenged herself with anatomy and physiology, and even took painting classes. Finally, the staff at Shasta College told her they had nothing left to offer her and she should move on. In 1994, she commuted weekly from Redding to Oakland to achieve her dream of obtaining a degree in art. The California College of the Arts 'stretched' her in ways she could not have imagined. She was introduced to people and techniques she had only dreamed of. She graduated from the California College of Arts in 1996 having achieved a Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree (with Distinction). She said to have graduated from the California College of the Arts was second only to successfully sending her boys into the world.

April 1, 1999, Rich Meyer passed away after a 41 year marriage. A conspiracy of their respective children brought Mr. Bo Ferris (USAF retired) and Deannie together. Married February 2001, "Bo" and Deannie traveled and lived life as large as anybody could. They bought a motorhome and wore its wheels off. Bo passed in June 2009. Bo's passing was a profound event, yet she remained a strong independent woman. Surviving an incredibly impossible heart surgery in May 2010, she recovered and continued with her Art work, participating in many local and national shows. She even had the honor of displaying a piece in the distinguished De Young Museum in San Francisco, CA. Deannie taught many art classes and has been a force in many local artists' development. She continued to teach until her health became too much an issue for her to perform to her high standard.

She is survived by sons, Daniel, Kirk (Laura), Robert (Brenda), and her grandchildren Sibylla; Audra and Ashlie; and Sarah, Carlie and James; also four great-grand sons, one great-grand daughter, and one - pending arrival.

A memorial service will be held at the Northern California Veterans Cemetery Chapel on April 7, 2017 at 9:30 AM followed by a luncheon and display of her art at the First United Methodist Church in Redding at 12:00 PM.

Donations in memory of Deannie Meyer, Artist, may be made to the Shasta County Arts Council, Old City Hall, 1313 Market St., Redding, CA 96001 or to the First United Methodist Church, Arts Council, 1825 East St., Redding, CA 96001.

See this obituary as published in Redding Record Searchlight on Mar. 29, 2017 at: http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/redding/.

Note: "Bo" Ferris entry is also listed within this page. See Index at top for location. ... bf, Webmaster

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Virginia Chamberlain
(Photo from planned obit)

Virginia Chamberlain from 20160514 Picnic

Virginia Chamberlain
(Photo from 14May2016 WCC Picnic)

VIRGINIA N. CHAMBERLAIN
d. 25-Feb-2020 in Sacramento, CA

(As received via Email to Bob Fitzgerald from Rebecca & John Ryan)
Virginia Nann Chamberlain (nee Bowman), passed away Feb. 25 at the age of 94 years. Mrs. Chamberlain was predeceased by two sisters, Barbara and Nelda, and her husband of 69 years, Lt. Col. Richard E. Chamberlain*. She is survived by her three children, Richard Jr. and his wife Cheryl, Rebecca and her husband John, and Shawn; four grandchildren; ten great-grandchildren; and a multitude of friends.

The long-time Sacramento resident always remembered her Texas roots with pride. She enjoyed a life-long love of animals, a wide-ranging curiosity about her world, and was quick to strike up a conversation with anyone she met. Her restless spirit flowed through creative hands into a variety of crafts, including sewing, crocheting, knitting, beadwork and baking, which she shared generously. While raising a family throughout the migratory life of an Air Force wife, she found time to volunteer with the Officers Wives Club, as a room mother in her children's schools, PTA president and Red Cross hospital Gray Lady.

The funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, March 13, (2020) at Mount Vernon Memorial Park's Church of the Valley. The family requests donations to Sacramento SPCA in lieu of flowers.

Click here for --> Sacramento Bee Published Obituary with Guest Book Entries
Note: Virginia was an active Life member of the AFTAC Alumni Association - West Coast Chapter.
*To see the entry on this page for Lt. Col. Richard E. Chamberlain, who passed away on 1/1/2015, just CLICK HERE.

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Peggy Rheault
(5/13/2011 from AFTAC Reunion)

Peggy Rheault
(7/11/2010 from personal file)

PEGGY J. RHEAULT
b. 07-Jul-1938; d. 22-Nov-2019 in Seal Rock, OR

(As written by Bob Fitzgerald with input from Peggy's daughter, Julie.)
Peggy June Rheault was born in Alexandria, Virginia on July 7, 1938 to Audrey & Raymond Beavers. After high-school, Peggy became an administrative assistant working at the US Air Force's 1035th Field Activities Group/AFTAC Headquarters just south of Alexandria. It was while working at AFTAC HQ that Peggy met, and on Dec 28, 1963 married Charles R. "Ray" Rheault who was an Admin Personnel Clerk at AFTAC HQ on active duty with the USAF. Peggy and her young daughter Debbie went with Ray after he applied for and was accepted by AFTAC to become a 99125L - Special Weapons Technician and sent to Lowry AFB, CO in 1965 for training. After 9 months in Colorado, they were transferred to the 1155th Technical Operations Squadron at McClellan AFB, CA where Ray worked in the McClellan Central Laboratory (MCL) as a bench chemist. In April of 1967 Ray, Peggy, daughter Debbie & infant daughter Julie were transferred to Eielson AFB, Fairbanks, AK. Peggy & Ray were outgoing active people and made many long lasting friends at Eielson, and again after they returned to the 1155th TechOpsSq in October 1969 where Ray became the NCOIC of the Chem Lab at MCL.

Peggy was Ray's main supporter, bookkeeper and helper when he became a self-employed cabinet maker after retirement in 1978. Peggy never remarried after Ray's death in 1994 but was very active with the Gethsemane Lutheran Church in Carmichael, CA and as a volunteer with Domestic Abuse Intervention and Elderly Rights organizations in Sacramento. Peggy helped with registrations at a number of the AFTAC Alumni Association Worldwide Reunions held by the 1155th TechOpsSq in Sacramento and was an active volunteer and supporter of the Country Club Aires Men's Chorus & Band performances, and the California Old Time Fiddlers District 5 monthly jam sessions & other western music jam sessions. Peggy loved music, especially western & all of Elvis Presley's 1950's style soft rock & roll music to which she loved to dance. She had a very kind and caring heart for everyone in need, including animals. No one was a stranger to Peggy.

Peggy leaves behind her loving and devoted daughters Debbie Rheault in Seal Rock, OR & Julie Burke (Mike) in Auburn, CA, and her grandchildren Joseph & Curtis Cissney and Lisa Meadows (Debbie) and Tori Oldham (Julie), plus 9 great-grandchildren. Peggy was predeceased by her father, Ray Beavers; brother, Robert Beavers; husband Charles 'Ray' Rheault; and mother, Audrey Beavers.
- - - - - - - - - -

- - - - - - - - - - Peggy's daughters: "Julie" & "Debbie", HAVE POSTPONED the 'Celebration Of Life' for Peggy which was scheduled for 4/25. Please stay tuned for rescheduling info.

On a personal note: Peggy and Ray were our dear friends since the early 1960's. I first met Ray and then Peggy when I was a cryptographer in a communications detachment assigned to AFTAC HQ in Alexandria, (1960-64), after which I was accepted for training as a 99125L and subsequently sent to the 1155th TechOpsSq (MCL) in April 1964. When Ray and I were voluntarily transferred together with our families to Eielson AFB in April 1967 I helped carry baby Julie in my arms on our flight from Seattle to Anchorage, AK. I was Julie's proxy Godfather at her Christening at Eielson AFB. Peggy & Ray were our daughter's Godparents at her Christening after she was born in 1975. Darlene and I have lost a very dear friend in Peggy's passing and, although her physical presence will be dearly missed, she will still be with us in spirit and memories. May she rest together with Ray in God's peace. ... Bob Fitzgerald, Webmaster < www.AFTACWCC.org >.

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Jim Gillmore
(Photo from obit)

JAMES "Jim" GILLMORE
b. 06-Mar-1936; d. 21-Oct-2018 in Concord, CA

(As received from Calvin Bacon via Email to Frank Calenda)
James M. Gillmore, Resident of Concord -
James Michael Gillmore 82, entered into rest on October 21, 2018 in Concord; born March 6, 1936 in Cleveland, OH to Donald and Florence Gillmore. He had been ill for many years; the family is very grateful for his all of his caregivers.

James attended Ohio State University, he served in the USAF (1959-1963) and he earned his AA degree in Computer Science from Diablo Valley College. James worked as a computer programmer 11 years for Wells Fargo. Then he worked for various companies as a self-employed programmer until his retirement in late 1999. James had a lifelong love of steam trains and model railroads. He also loved photography and traveling.

James is survived by his wife of 58 years Evelyn J. Gillmore; son Scott; daughter-in0law Cindy Gillmore; grandchildren Derek and Leah Gillmore. James is also survived by extended relatives and friends. A Memorial Service will be held at 11:00AM, Monday, November 12, 2018 at Ouimet Bros. Concord Funeral Chapel, 4125 Clayton Road, Concord. Interment will be private in Sacramento Valley National Cemetery, Dixon, CA. In lieu of flowers, memorials in James memory may be made to: California State Railroad Museum, 125 I Street, Sacramento, CA 95814. Published in East Bay Times on Nov. 4, 2018

Cal Bacon added: "Jim graduated from tech school at Lowry AFB in August 1960 (married 27 Aug 1960) and spent the rest of his USAF time in building 628 in the Mass Spec Lab. Regards, Cal Bacon 1155 TOS 1960 - 1963." Cal also included this Web Link for the obituary: https://www.lastingmemories.com/memorial/james-m-gillmore?about.

Note: Jim was a LIFE member of the AFTACAA West Coast Chapter. ... bf, Webmaster

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MARY LUBIN
(taken in 1977)

MARY LUBIN
(Photo from Celebration of Life)

MARY LUELLA (Kellogg) LUBIN
b. 1932; d. 06-Mar-2019 in Oakland, CA

As received 03/20/2019 from Michael Lubin, Col. USAF (Ret.) Mary Lubin RN, MA, beloved wife of Michael, died on March 6, 2019 at age 86. Mary, daughter of Robert Harley Kellogg Jr. and Luella (Sampson) Kellogg, grew up in Glastonbury Connecticut, and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing, with a specialty in Public Health, from Simmons College in Boston. While in college Mary met her future husband, whom she wed in1955. As an Air Force wife Mary lived in many communities, including two three-year tours in Japan. She worked in public health agencies of New Haven CT, Sacramento CA, and Brevard County, Florida; in Boston on the faculty of Boston College, and as a volunteer in DOD overseas schools. While in Sacramento she earned an MA in Health Science from Sacramento State University. Mary was an important contributor to morale of military families, particularly when placed in the role of commander's wife. Upon her husband's retirement from the USAF in 1980, the couple settled in San Leandro CA where Mary resumed her professional career, specializing in Geriatric Nursing. She held positions as Staff Developer, Director of Nursing, and Administrator in Skilled Nursing Facilities in San Leandro, Alameda and Berkeley. Mary retired as an executive of a company operating Skilled Nursing Facilities. She then became a Legal Nurse Consultant, with clients in California and the Mid-West. Mary authored chapters in several compendia dealing with legal and management aspects of Nursing Homes. Post retirement in 2003 Mary and her husband served as volunteers at the San Leandro Boys and Girls Club and participated in local duplicate bridge tournaments. In 2015, the couple relocated from San Leandro to Piedmont Gardens, a Retirement Community in Oakland, California.
Mary is predeceased by her two siblings and survived by her husband, daughter Elizabeth Lubin Hughes, son James Lubin; grandchildren Joan and Samuel Lubin, Conor and Kevin Hughes; brother-in-law Frank Mastropasqua and five nephews and nieces. All miss Mary, and cherish memories of her. Mary's cremains will remain with her husband, both eventually to be inurned in a military cemetery in California.

Note: There was a Celebration of Life service for Mary on Apr 6, 2019 from 2-4pm in the Sky Room, Piedmont Gardens, 110-41st St., Oakland, Ca 94611. Col Lubin has since added: " The Celebration was attended by about a hundred people who had known Mary during her life as an AF wife and her later career in Geriatric Nursing and its management."

Regarding the photos, Col Lubin says: "The solo shot (top left panel) was taken outside Quarters 106 in 1977. The one with B/Gen. Reynolds (then vice--commander of SMAMA) was (at the presentation of) an award for Mary's efforts in behalf of the CFC in 1979. The formal shot is of our family at my retirement in 1980." (Note: The bottom photo to the left was scanned from the Celebration of Life notice. ... Webmaster)

MARY in 1979 Col Lubin with MARY & Family
with B/Gen Reynolds, Taken in 1980 at Col Lubin's retirement
SMAMA Vice Commander

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RICHARD "Grif" GRIFFIN
(Photo from SacBee Obit)

Richard 'Grif' Griffin recent

RICHARD "Grif" GRIFFIN
(from Celebration of Life pamphlet)

RICHARD E. "GRIF" GRIFFIN
b. 17-Nov-1944; d. 05-Dec-2018 in Sacramento, CA

As Notified by Sue Griffin and published in the Sacramento Bee
Richard E. "Grif" Griffin, born November 17, 1944 in Concordia, KS, died December 5, 2018 in Sacramento, CA at age 74. Grif enlisted in the U.S. Air Force in 1962 launching a lifelong career in electronics. He attained the rank of Master Sergeant while serving in the 1155th Technical Operations Squadron of the Air Force Technical Applications Center responsible for nuclear treaty monitoring and nuclear event detection. Grif retired in 1982 after 20 years' service. From 1968 - 1982 while with AFTAC, he traveled the world installing and maintaining seismic equipment. These travels included three years spent in Alice Springs, Australia.

Following retirement, Grif embarked on a 31-year secondary career in bio-medical engineering with Sutter Health in Sacramento. He was extremely proud to be involved in the opening of five new hospitals including Sutter Roseville Medical Center and Sutter Medical Center/Anderson Lucchetti Women's and Children's Center in Sacramento.

Grif is survived by his wife of 52 years, Sue, children Sean and Robyn, and siblings Roy and Bernice. A celebration of Grif's life will take place Saturday January 26, 2018 from 1:00 - 3:00 PM at the Lakeview Village Mobile Home Park Clubhouse, 6211 Summerset Lane, Citrus Heights, CA. To honor his love for animals, donations may be made in his memory to the Dogwood Animal Project, 1415 Fulton Road, Suite 205, PO Box 432, Santa Rosa, CA or via Dogwood Animal Rescue Project Org. (Nonprofit tax ID: 81-1178819).
Link to Obit & Guest Book from The Sacramento Bee Addendum received from Sue:
Grif was involved in installing and maintaining seismic equipment from 1155th Technical Operations Squadron in Sacramento. He received his first training at Lowry AFB fall of 1968. His first assignment was to Det 423 the year of 1969. We were stationed 1974-1977 in Alice Springs. Over the years he was TDY to Alaska numerous times, Patrick AFB, and several overseas locations. Also, I believe a lot of his work was with "B" Systems. He retired in Sacramento fall of 1982. [Grif was most likely a 99125 assigned to Seismic Engineering in the 1155th. ... per Sue]

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FRANK PETERS
(Photo from SacBee Obit)

FRANK E. PETERS
b. 02-Apr-1934; d. 15-Nov-2018 in Carmichael, CA

Frank E. Peters died peacefully on November 15, 2018 at the age of 84. He was born on April 2, 1934 in Detroit, Michigan to his loving parents, Leonard and Lydia (Sampson) Peters. Frank graduated from Detroit's Cass Tech High School, then joined the Air Force. During his first assignment in South Texas he met Opal (Jean) Scott, his wife of 59 years. While in the Air Force he obtained his degree in accounting from Sacramento State. After his Air Force retirement, he went to work for the State of California until his second retirement in 1992. Frank was a Freemason and Shriner. He spent many years of his retirement as a dedicated volunteer driver for the Shriners Hospitals for Children. He enjoyed traveling, reading and his devoted canine companions. Frank is survived by his daughter Kathryne (Mike) Louritt of Florissant, Colorado; Laura (Michael) Peters Ross of Lincoln, California; and Brenda Freeman of Sacramento, California. He is also survived by his grandchildren Jeffrey, Karyn, and Nikolai Louritt; and Jonah Freeman. He was preceded in death by his only brother George; his wife Jean; his son David; and his granddaughter Melissa Louritt. A memorial service will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Dec. 8, 2018 at the Bicentennial Daylight Lodge No. 830. The address is 3010 Becerra Way, Sacramento, CA 95860. In lieu of flowers please make donations to the Shriners Hospitals for Children in Sacramento. Frank is loved and will be missed by his family and friends.

Published in The Sacramento Bee on Dec. 2, 2018 < Sacramento Bee Obit & Guest Book >

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TOMMIE BAKER
(Photo from Bob Baker)

TOMMIE KAZUE BAKER
b. 06-Apr-1927; d. 01-Nov-2018 in Carmichael, CA

As received 11/2/2018 from Bob Baker
Tommie Kazue Baker, age 91, passed away peacefully in her sleep on November 1, 2018. She was born in Tokyo, Japan, the oldest of eight children of Mr. and Mrs. Michisaburo Nakajima of Tokyo. She met her husband in Sacramento, California, and after their marriage moved with him to a number of US Air Force bases where he was stationed. Tommie and her husband enjoyed many trips together in their small airplane. Tommie had many activities, beginning as a volunteer at the Officers' Wives Club thrift shop at McClellan AFB, California. For many years she studied the Japanese arts of brush writing and tea ceremony. For three years she served as co-president of the Sacramento chapter of Ikebana International flower arranging society. Tommie is survived by her husband of 44 years, Bob E. Baker of Carmichael, California, and three sisters who reside in Japan. In keeping with her wishes for a simple service, Tommie will be remembered in a private ceremony with the members of her husband's family. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Tommie's name to the Sacramento Public Library Foundation.

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CAL BROWN
(Photo from Sac Bee Obit)

Cal Brown at 14May2016 Picnic

Cal Brown
At the WCC Spring Picnic
5/14/2016

CALVIN WOODROW BROWN, Col USAF (Ret.)
b. 1925 d. 25-Sep-2018 in North Carolina

Obit from Sacramento Bee Newspaper 29Sep2018 (See link below)
Colonel (Ret) Calvin Woodrow Brown, Age 93, passed away peacefully Tuesday morning, September 25, 2018. He was pre-deceased by his wife of 69 years, Alice, who passed away in 2016. Calvin was born in Newburyport, MA to Freeman and Ida Brown who were naturalized U.S. citizens originally from New Brunswick, Canada. He was the oldest brother of 3 siblings (deceased): Hazen, Shirley, and June. After graduation from Newburyport High School, Calvin was inducted into the Army Air Corps in May 1943, trained as a pilot, advanced pilot, and instructor pilot, and then trained new pilots for the WWII effort. During this two and one half year timeframe, Lieutenant Calvin Brown flew a total of about 1000 flying hours in the Fairchild PT-19, the BT-13 "Vultee Vibrator," and the AT-6 "Texan." He was discharged in late November 1945 after graduating a new class of pilots, 2 months after WWII ended. For the next 2 years, he attended Bates College in Maine, married Alice, and then accepted an invitation from the newly formed U.S. Air Force to re-enter military service. Calvin entered the Communications-Electronics field of the U.S. Air Force in February 1947. During his tour of duty in Germany from 1949- 1951, he flew in support of the Berlin Airlift, flying primarily the C-47 "Skytrain;" also the C-54 "Skymaster." In 1952, under Operation Bootstrap, Calvin graduated from the University of Maryland with a B.S. degree and later in his career earned 66 credit hours in Electrical Engineering. From 1954-1956, Calvin was assigned to the Electronic Defense Systems Division and assisted in the deployment of the SAGE System which became the backbone of the North American Air Defense response to a Soviet air attack; SAGE operated in this role from the 1950s into the 1980s. From 1956-1958, Calvin was Chief, Flight Test Officer at HQ Rome Air Force Depot, Griffiss AFB, NY where he flew a variety of aircraft including the C-47 "Skytrain,"" C-45 "Expeditor," T-33 "T-Bird," T-6 "Texan," F-80 "Shooting Star," and the B-26 "Invader."

From May 1960 July 1976 (when he retired), Calvin was assigned to the Air Force Technical Applications Center (AFTAC) which monitors nuclear treaty compliance to preserve our nation's security. Calvin excelled in AFTAC and was appointed commander at several of its key locations. Calvin and Alice were noted for their contributions to the morale of his units' personnel. Calvin was close to his troops, loved to tinker with cars, and loved playing golf, including with Alice, and enjoyed visiting his extended family.

Calvin is survived by his three children Tom (wife Cathy), Dick (wife Terry) and Bob; seven grandchildren Rob (wife Bonnie), Del (wife Genevieve), Cindy (husband Dan), Christy (husband Kurt), Nick (wife Santina), Tony (wife Lauren), and Jeff; and twenty-one great-grandchildren. He loved and was loved by his friends and his extended family and will be greatly missed. In lieu of services, contributions can be made in his name to DAV (Disabled American Veterans) Charitable Service Trust (http://cst.dav.org).

Published in The Sacramento Bee on Sept. 29, 2018 ( Sacramento Bee Obit w/Guest Book Access.)

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DAVE PAQUETTE
(Photo from June Paquette)

Dave Paquette at 2017 Reunion

Dave Paquette
At the AFTAC World-wide Reunion
Banquet in Sacramento, 6/17/2017

DAVID PAQUETTE, LtCol USAF (Ret.)
b. 9-Oct-1942 d. 28-Jul-2018 in Roseville, CA

Obit as received from June Paquette
It is with a heavy heart that I inform you of Dave's passing. He was returning from his daily walk last week when he took a fall on our front steps, and hit his head. He sustained a significant bleed due to being on blood thinners, and despite prompt surgery, he could not recover from the injury. He was injured on July 23 and passed away on July 28th. His care at Sutter Roseville hospital was exceptional, but he did not regain consciousness following surgery. He received supportive care and died peacefully. Gratefully, I was at his side when he died.

He loved the men and women of AFTAC and was so proud to be part of such an outstanding organization. It was like family to us and we have life long friends from TechOps. After his retirement from the Air Force, he received a teaching credential and taught high school chemistry for a number of years. He then graduated on to teaching chemistry at Sacramento City College, mainly to pre-nursing students.

When he finally retired for real, he enjoyed traveling, volunteering at the local middle school and county food bank, and most importantly, time with family and friends. The birth of our only grand child prompted yearly visits to the Philippines where our son, daughter in law and grand daughter were living, followed by a visit to Singapore when they moved there. Ken, our oldest son, and family, moved back to the area 4 years ago. Darren, our younger son, lives close by in Natomas, so we were blessed with having family close by and part of our daily lives.

In June of this year, we gave ourselves an early 50th wedding anniversary gift - taking the whole family to our favorite resort in Kauai for a week. We had a wonderful time and my family and I are so thankful that we enjoyed that very special time together.

Dave's cremains will be interned at the Sacramento Valley National Cemetery in a private family ceremony on August 20. A Celebration of Life will be held for family and friends the evening of September 7 in our community of Lincoln Hills.

Should anyone wish to make a donation in honor of Dave, I have chosen the Placer Food Bank as the recipient. It is an outstanding organization that does so much good in our community and surrounding area and Dave enjoyed being a volunteer with the food bank. Here is a (secure) link to a donation page in his memory: PLACER FOOD BANK.

In talking to Tom Niquette on the telephone this morning, 5Aug18, Tom says that he and Dave were assigned to AFTAC HQ back in the 1974-1978 time frame. Tom worked in "DO" while Dave worked in "TN". ... Bob Fitzgerald, WCC Webmaster & V.P.

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MARIAN JORDAN
"(nee CHAMBERS)"
(Photo provided by family)

MARIAN CHAMBERS
With some members of the
"Mother's Brothers Band"
(Photo as published 11/27/1968 iu the
Spacemaker newspaper
on McClellan AFB)

MARIAN ELLEN JORDAN (nee Chambers)
b. 25-May-1934; d. 11-Jun-2018 in Elk Grove, CA

Obit as received from Marian's daughter, Kathy Wayland
Heaven gained another angel on Monday, June 11, 2018. Marian Ellen Jordan, a most beautiful, loving, funny, and joyous lady, passed away at the age of 84 in Elk Grove, CA. Marian was born on May 25, 1934 in Aberdeen, Washington to Robert B. Glasgow and Ruth G. Williams. During the Viet Nam years she was employed at the 1155th TechOpsSqdn, McClellan AFB Central Laboratory and always spoke fondly of her many Air Force friends. Marian was instrumental in building the first public library in Kings Beach, her crown-jewel personal accomplishment. She also loved to sing opera, adored England, all things Jane Austen, was a veracious reader, and played the piano with a passion.

Marian always loved a good burger and her afternoon "Martini Time" was serious business. When her grandchildren visited, they loved her special buttered toast. She truly was Snow White: the birds would literally eat from her hand. Marian had a precious giggle that could melt your heart and a beautiful smile that lit up any room. She was the epitome of grace and had the unique ability to make even the simplest event seem ever so special for her family and friends. She loved the Lake Tahoe area, and when it snowed Marian was at her happiest.

Marian was preceded in death by her husband of 40 years, Robert Jordan. She is survived by her two children, Kathy Wayland and Jeff Chambers; her four grandchildren, Tracy Marian, Jeremy, Jeffery, and April; and her five great-grandchildren, Jacob, Gavin, Harper, Hunter, and Cooper. Peace be with you, Sweet Marian!
Obit as published in the Sierra Sun newspaper in Lake Tahoe

Note:
Marian Chambers, as she was known in the 1155th TOS, was the "Sweetheart of the McClellan Central Laboratory (MCL)" and the Executive Secretary to the Director of MCL for many years. She was also a very talented pianist, soprano singer & band director who formed a number of bands from talented 1155th TOS musicians, who called her "Mother". One of the bands named "The Mother's Brothers" performed for a number of events and at various venues in the greater Sacramento area in the 1960's & 70's. A number of band photos, including one with Marian, were also published on page 98 in the 1999 "Technical Operations Division Heritage Remembered" booklet.

I hope to have some of the photos of the band(s) which I received from Marian (see side bar), and also from Warren Wachter, published in a future issue of the Depot Fallout newsletter. I may even find a way some day to publish on our website some of the songs recorded by the band members which I also received from Marian & from Warren. The photos which I have of the bands included Marian, Warren Wachter, Alan Gontang, Doug Clevenger, Bill Scott, Wayne Gunther and possibly others.
Marian will be greatly missed by all her friends. May she rest in peace.
... Bob Fitzgerald, WCC Webmaster

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FRED BREWSTER

Fred Brewster -b

Photos from pics of photos
taken at Fred's memorial svc.

FREDRICK KENNETH BREWSTER, TSgt USAF Ret.
b. 25-Mar-1932; d. 19-Dec-2017 in North Highlands, CA

Obituary as published in the Sacramento Bee Newspaper:

Frederick Kenneth Brewster, age 85, passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family on December 19, 2017. Fred served 22 honorable years in the U.S. Air Force, and went on to work 20 years as a Letter Carrier with the US Postal Service. He is survived by his beloved wife of 62 years, Catherine, his son, Mark, his daughter, Nancy, their spouses, and numerous grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his daughter, Cathy. He was loved by all who knew him and will be dearly missed.

Family and friends were invited to attend a memorial service at East Lawn Mortuary & Sierra Hills Memorial Park, 5757 Greenback Lane, on Thursday, December 28, 2017, 6-8 p.m.

Link to Fred's Sacramento Bee obit published on Dec 24, 2017, and with access to an online 'Guest Book'.

Comments made by Fred's son, Mark, to the WCC Webmaster at the memorial service:
In the 1950's, before "AFTAC" and while stationed in New York, Fred was a member of the Air Force Honor Guard. Besides being assigned to the 1155th TechOpsSq at McClellan, Fred was also stationed with the Webmaster in the late 1960's at an AFTAC unit at Eielson AFB, Alaska. Fred retired from AFTAC and the USAF in 1973.

Fred was a good man who always had a ready smile that brightened your day. He will be missed by all who knew him.
- Bob Fitzgerald, Webmaster

6/1/18 Update:
CATHERINE BREWSTER, wife of Fred for 63 years, passed away peacefully on 01May2018. Their son Mark informed me on 01June in response to a voice mail message I had left a few days earlier for Catherine on her home answering machine. Mark said his mother had a number of health issues, but likely also died of a broken heart due to the passing of Fred just 5-1/2 months earlier. Mark said that his mom was also cremated and did not want any services or obit.
May they both rest together now in peace with the Lord. ... bf

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JOE AMERENA
Photo provided by Dale Klug from AFTACAA 'WALL 20 YEAR' Section

JOSEPH AMERENA, 1155th TOS & TOD Civilian Tech Writer (corrected 12/19/2017)
b. dd-mmm-yyyy; d. 14-Aug-2017 Norco, CA

Information received from Tina, Joe's Daughter, in an Email she sent to John Miner, which John then sent to Dale Klug.

"Joe has passed away...I am so sad to say. He went in the hospital Thursday, (Ed: 8/10), with a very bad infection. He was not able to beat it. I miss him already. Please inform his friends. You were so very important to him. Thank you for your valued friendship, Tina"

Dale Klug added: "I called Tina this morning, (Ed: 8/17),. She said Joe along with his wife, Jane, will be buried with full military honors in the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific (informally known as Punchbowl Cemetery) at Punchbowl Crater in Honolulu, Hawaii."

"Joe also was a US Marine Corps veteran who firmly believed "Once a Marine, Always a Marine" and ended his emails with "Semper Fi"."

Dale subsequently said: "Joe was at 1155/TOD from 1967 - 1999. His daughter will send me an obit when she gets one finalized with the info from the Punchbowl Cemetery."

5Jan2018: Update from Joe's daughter as received by Dale: "No obituary was published. A small ceremony will take place at Punchbowl on February 14, 2018 at 2pm. We will place mom (Joe's wife, Jane) and Joe's ashes together in a niche there."

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ROSE KLUG
Photo provided by Dale

Rose Klug

Another angel, Rose Klug, 67, Sacramento CA, got her wings on February 12, 2017, following a two year battle with cancer. At her side when she was beamed up to Heaven were husband Dale; their children Linda, Christopher & Jennifer; granddaughter Emily; sister Debbie; her godmom Emily and brother-in-law Peter.

Rose was born in Oklahoma City to a beautiful young Hispanic girl, Beatrice Quintero and husband, Roger Warren. Rose & Dale were married in Sacramento, April 23, 1970. She loved working with children as a teacher's aide and soccer coach in North Highlands, CA, Wheeler AFB, HI and Iraklion AS, Crete, Greece. She retired from the Golden 1 Credit Union in 1996 as a Member Services Supervisor.

She is also survived by her brothers & sisters, Ronald, Benny, Debbie, Pauline, Michael, Letha & Nona, all in Texas & Oklahoma; her stepmother, Tae of Sacramento and uncle, Charles Warren of Sioux Center IA. She's also survived by many, many nieces, nephews, cousins and sisters & brothers-in-law throughout the US.

The family thanks Roseville and Sacramento Sutter Medical Group Doctors Chellappah, Gonik, Spinelli and their staffs for the excellent care they provided Rose in the past two years. A special "Thank You" to the Roseville Sutter Infusion Center's outstanding nurses & staff and the Sutter Health Hospice team, especially nurses Peter and Beth, who went out of their way to provide Rose the most professional care during this trying time.

A Memorial & Celebration of Life will be 10:00 am, Thursday, June 15 at St Lawrence Church, North Highlands, CA.
A reception will follow. [Map to St Lawrence's Catholic Church, 4325 Don Julio Blvd, North Highlands, CA 95660]
Interment in Crucifixion Catholic Cemetery, LaCrescent, MN is pending.

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Alice Brown
(Photo from 5/14/2016
WCC Picnic Album)

Alice Louise Brown
d. 24-Dec-2016 in Citrus Heights, CA

Alice Louise Brown, Age 88, passed away peacefully Saturday night, December 24, 2016. She was the wife of Colonel (Retired) Calvin W. Brown and she spent 33 years traveling around the world with him before they retired at McClellan AFB. Married 69 years. She was once an avid bridge player, played golf regularly, assisted Calvin in uplifting morale of his military personnel, and was a loving mother, grandmother, and great-grand-mother. She is survived by her husband (Calvin); three children - Tom (wife Cathy), Dick (wife Terry) and Bob; seven grandchildren - Rob (wife Bonnie), Del (wife Genevieve), Cindy (husband Dan), Nick (wife Santina), Christy (husband Kurt), Tony (wife Lauren), and Jeff; and 19 great- grandchildren. She was loved by her friends and her family and will be greatly missed. In lieu of services, contributions can be made in her name to Sacramento Loaves and Fishes, one of her constant charities.

Son, Tom Brown said that no service is planned here for his mom and that she was cremated. Her ashes will be taken with them where his family is moving his Dad, Cal, on 1/7/2017 to the east coast. Cal's new address as of that date will be:
Cal Brown, 6924 Knotty Pine Dr, Chapel Hill, NC 27517. No phone number yet.

Link to Alice's Sacramento Bee obit as published on 1/1/2017 with access to the online 'Guest Book' .

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Jacqueline Hopkins
(Photo from Obit)

Jacqueline Ann Ballard Hopkins
b. 21-Jul-1935; d. 24-Aug-2016 in North Highlands, CA

Jacqueline Ann Ballard Hopkins, daughter of Janice Marea Price Ballard and Arthur Herbert Ballard, II entered into life on July 21, 1935 in Springfield, MA. She went home to the Lord, peacefully in her sleep on August 24, 2016 after battling cancer for 7 years. She grew up in West Hartford, CT. Most of her life she worked as a bookkeeper, retiring in 2004 from H & R Block. She was a life member of the Air Force Sergeants Association Auxiliary. She served as international president of the Auxiliary for two years. Jacqueline is survived by her husband of 62 years, TSgt, Retired, Marvin Gilbert Hopkins, 5 children, Mark Arthur Hopkins, Keith Timothy Hopkins, Russell Alan Hopkins, Allison Marie Hopkins Rathburn), and Scott Andrew Hopkins, also by her brother, Arthur Herbert Ballard, III, nine grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. She had many friends in AFSA, the Air Force, and her church Christ Community Church in Carmichael.

There will be celebration of her life on September 7, 2016 at 2PM at Christ Community Church, 5025 Manzanita Ave., Carmichael, CA 95608. Suggested donations in lieu of flowers be made to the American Cancer Society.

Note: Marvin & "Jackie" are life members of the AFTAC Alumni Assoc. - West Coast Chapter

Link to Jackie's Sacramento Bee obit published on Sept 2, 2016 and access to the online 'Guest Book' .

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(Photo not avail)

ROBERT D. "DOUG" McGEE
b. dd-mmm-yyyy; d. 07-Apr-2016 in Fayetteville, NC

CLINTON - Robert Douglas McGee, 72, of 54 Boykin Drive, passed away Thursday, Apr 7, at his home. A graveside service will be held at 10 a.m., Tuesday, Apr 12, in the Sandhills Veterans Cemetery in Spring Lake, NC.

Robert was retired from the U. S. Army as a helicopter pilot and was a Vietnam Veteran. He was a member of the Kiwanis Club and the VFW. He was preceded in death by his parents, Richard Gordon McGee and Madeline Ruth Counts McGee; brother and sister, Billy Joe McGee and Marjorie Ann McGee. He is survived by his wife of forty-six years, Sherylle McGee; sons, Rodney Kyle McGee and Carol of Clinton and Travis Wayde McGee and Rosezatte of Fayetteville; brother, Richard Gordon McGee, Jr. of Tennessee; grandchildren, Kelsey Shannon McGee, Colin McGee, Jacob McGee, John Russell Olson, Noah Douglas McGee, Jessica Covington and Annie Jean McGee; great-grandchildren, Aiden Hall, Rodney McGee and Iris Naylor; and mother-in-law, Sharon Opperman.
In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to Tims Gift at 108 Northeast Blvd., Clinton, NC 28328. Condolences may be sent to the family at www.crumpler-honeycutt.com. Arrangements are by Crumpler-Honeycutt Funeral Home, 118 Fayetteville St., Clinton, NC 28328. Published in The Sampson Independent from Apr. 9 to Apr. 10, 2016

'Butch' mentioned that "Doug" McGee "was an SEO and WCC Life Member. When stationed at 407 he was in a Go Cart wreck and was knocked out. The AF would not let him remain on flying status so he got out and joined the Army. I am pretty sure he was in the Blackhawk program." ... Butch

Clark mentioned that Robert McGee was stationed at "lowry 61, 1155, 62-63 Ops Bongo Drum, Crazy Man Overseas Det 63-67 airborne ops."

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Laurie Kemna
Photo from WCC Picnic 16 May 2015

LAURIE KEMNA
b. 31-July-1942; d. 11-Apr-2016 in Sacramento

Laurie Kemna, of Citrus Heights, California, passed away peace-fully at home on Monday, April 11, 2016 with her husband, John, by her side. She was born July 31, 1942 in Redlands, CA. She taught Spanish for 37 years at Rio Americana and Oakmont High School. Her love for teaching and her students was evident and resulted in many friendships lasting long after her retirement. She was married to John Kemna in 1972 and they were married for 45 years. During her life, she was an avid reader, fitness enthusiast and gardener. Her favorite place to spend time was at their second home in Nevada City situated on property left to her by her beloved father. She is survived by her husband, John, her brother, Steve and her cousins.

As published in The Sacramento Bee on Apr. 17, 2016 - Legacy Published Obit & Guest Book.

Laurie was always a joy to talk with and to be with at our AFTAC - West Coast Chapter (WCC) events, including our annual picnics and fall socials. She will stay in our hearts and minds as we review her in photos of those events from the past.

Her physical presence will be greatly missed at our future events, but we know she will be with "Butch" and with us in spirit whenever and wherever our group and her friends get together.
May she rest in peace.

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John R. "J.R."
Johnson Jr.
(Photo from Mortuary Obit)
J.R. Johnson

(From 2011 AFTAC Reunion)
J.R. Johnson

(From 2010 WCC May Picnic)

John Riley "J.R." Johnson Jr., Col. USAF (Ret)
b. 22 Mar 1922; d. 05 Feb 2016 in Granite Bay, CA

Obit published by Frankfort, KY, mortuary's website

John Riley "J.R." Johnson died peacefully on Friday, Feb. 5, 2016, in Granite Bay, Calif., at the age of 93 with his son and daughter in attendance. John was born March 22, 1922, in Providence, Ky., the fourth of seven children of J.R. Johnson Sr. and Zita Marguerite (Lucas) Johnson.

He graduated from Frankfort High School in 1940 and in 1942 joined the U.S. Army Air Corps as a pilot. During a mission over Holland, he was shot down and held as a prisoner of war in Stalag Luft 1A, Barth, Germany. His memoir about this period, "Un-Armed, Un-Armored and Un-Escorted, A World War II C-47 Airborne Troop Carrier Pilot Remembers," was published in 2014.

After the war, John returned to Frankfort and married his high school sweetheart, Lou Avah Pevlor. He graduated from University of Kentucky with a B.S. in Industrial Chemistry and was subsequently awarded an M.S. in Nuclear Chemistry from Ohio State University and an M.A. in International Relations from George Washington University.

John served in the U.S. Air Force for 30 years with assignments in Yokota, McClellan, Wright Patterson and the Pentagon. He retired from the military in 1973 as Deputy Director for Scientific and Technical Intelligence, Defense Intelligence Agency.

After his distinguished career in military service, he spent another 22 years working in private industry in the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area before finally retiring. Following the death of Lou Avah in 1993, he moved to Granite Bay, Calif., where he was actively involved with his church and community.

He was preceded in death by Lou Avah Johnson, his son Kenneth Layne Johnson, his second wife Anne Deets Johnson and third wife Lois Johnson. He is survived by his sister Rosemary Dodds; his three children, Jenefer Lee Johnson, Cindy Lou Johnson and husband Nick, John R. Johnson and wife Claudia; and his two grandchildren, Scarlet Teresa Johnson and Eva Ruby Johnson.

He will be remembered as a pilot and patriot and as an admired father, grandfather, brother, uncle, friend and neighbor, loved by all who knew him. Services will be held at the First United Methodist Church in Frankfort, Ky., on Saturday, Feb. 27 at 2 p.m. with a burial following at the Frankfort Cemetery.

Addendum by the WCC Webmaster:
J.R. was a long-time member of the AFTAC Alumni Association - West Coast Chapter and was a member listed on the "WFO" member roster listings from the mid 1980's while still living in McLean, VA. Most recently, J.R. attended our WCC-sponsored AFTAC Worldwide Reunion held in Sacramento in May 2011 and our annual WCC Picnic held in May 2010.
<< -- < < (See the photos at left)

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LOWELL 'SATCH'
SATTERLEE
Photo from daughter Peggy

LOWELL J. "SATCH" SATTERLEE,
b. 03-Feb-1940; d. 10-Mar-2015 in Sacramento

" Hi All,
The family wanted to thank you for all the heartwarming thoughts, prayers, visits, phone calls, cards, flowers, etc. over the past week. We can't express how much they meant to us.

We have been informed of the date that Dad's ashes will be laid to rest with full military honors.
The ceremony (was) held at the:
Sacramento Valley National Cemetery
5810 Midway Rd, Dixon, CA 95620
MAP TO LOCATION
Monday, March 23, 2015 at 2:00 pm Thank you,
Peggy, Julie and Donna"

'Satch' was a 'Life' member of the West Coast Chapter.

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AL GOMES
Photo provided by Dale Klug

ALFRED J. "AL" GOMES, MSgt USAF Retired
b. 22-Jul-1933; d. 28-Feb-2015 in Sacramento

MSgt AJ Gomes of Sacramento CA passed away on February 28, 2015 at Mercy San Juan hospital.

A Mass was held, Saturday March 14th, 7 PM,
at Holy Cross Parish 1321 Anna St, West Sacramento, 95605.

4/18/15 Update from Dale:
Internment with full military honors at the Sacramento Valley National Cemetery
in Dixon CA, on MONDAY, APRIL 20, 2015 at 11:30 AM.
MAP TO LOCATION

Al Gomes was a 'Life' member of the West Coast Chapter. ... Webmaster

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GEORGE THOMPSON
(from 17May14 Picnic)

GEORGE THOMPSON
(from published obit)

GEORGE J. THOMPSON, SMSgt USAF Retired
b. 14-Jun-1930; d. 13-Jan-2015 in Clearlake, CA

From Obituary published in Lake County Record-Bee from Jan 24-Jan 30, 2015.

George John Thompson, born on Flag Day, June 14, 1930, in White Plains, NY, entered into rest in Clearlake, CA, on Tuesday, January 13, 2015, at the age of 84. George was a 1st Vice Commander of Konocti Post 437 the American Legion, Past Commander of Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 2337, 40 & 8 Voiture 912 of Lake County and belonged to an Air Force Retiree group. ("AFTAC Alumni Assoc.-West Coast Chapter" ...bf). George served his country and retired from the United States Air Force as a Senior Master Sergeant being awarded the National Defense Service Medal with one Bronze Service Star, Air Force Longevity Service Award with four Bronze Oak Leaf Clusters, Air Force Outstanding Unit Awards with two Bronze Oak Leaf Clusters, SO GB-260, Desert Air Force, Small Arms Expert Marksmanship Ribbon, SMAMA, Air Force Good Conduct Medal, and the Air Force Medals. He was very active in the veteran service organizations and involved with the Lake County Vet Connect along with being a teacher at the library's Literacy Program. George is survived by his nephews, Harold Schaefer of Brewster, NY, and Frank Fernandez of New Fairfield, CT, a niece, Judy Lyons of Brookfield, CT, along with many friends in Lake County. Friends are invited to attend Funeral Services on Wednesday, January 28, 2015, beginning at Noon at Jones & Lewis Clear Lake Memorial Chapel in Lower Lake. Interment will follow at the Lower Lake Cemetery under the auspices of the US Air Force and the Lake County Funeral Honors Team. Please share your memories of George by signing his on-line guestbook at www.jonesandlewis.com and legacy.com. Arrangements under the care of Jones & Lewis Clear Lake Memorial Chapel. See the obituary and guest book as published in the Lake County Record-Bee.

George was a life member of the AFTAC Alumni Association - West Coast Chapter (WCC) and the WCC Assistant Chairman of the Board Of Directors since 2009. George was always active in all our chapter activities, including faithfully attending almost every WCC business meeting and social activity since the inception of the WCC even though he had to drive over 2 hours from his home in Clearlake to attend. George has been on a number of our WCC sponsored AFTAC Worldwide Reunion committees, including the one held here in Sacramento by the newly formed WCC in 1999. At our reunions, you would almost always find George's smiling face 'guarding' the booze as the one in charge of our hospitality suite. In addition to all his help, we will miss his smiles and good humor. May he rest in peace!

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"JERRY" LaBARRE
Jerry LaBarre

All Photos from FL Chapter

GERALD R. "JERRY" LaBARRE, SMSgt USAF Retired
b. 05-Jul-1931 in Woonsocket, RI; d. 5-Jan-2015 in Sarasota, FL

From Obituary published in the 'Woonsocket Call' Feb 4th.

['Jerry' was the] Son of the late Armand LaBarre and Edna Boisseau. Survived by his loving wife of 62 years, Therese S. Castonguay. Preceded in death by a son, Gerald LaBarre, Jr.. Survived by his children, Michelle Pennock, her husband John, of Ecuador, South America, Suzanne Robinson, and Michael LaBarre of Florida, 11 grandchildren, 16 great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews. Survived by his brother, A. Robert LaBarre, his wife Nancy of Greenville, RI, and his sister Claire Lachance, her husband Charles of North Smithfield, RI.

Gerald served in the United States Air Force from 1951 until honorably discharged as Senior Master Sergeant on January 1,1975. His second career was for Bechtel Corp. during construction of the Alaska Pipeline and then for Alyeska Pipeline Service Company (operating pipeline for the Alaska Pipeline) until retiring on October 31, 1992.

A memorial mass, celebrating his life, will be held on Saturday, February 7th at 10:00 AM at St. John the Evangelist Church in Slatersville, RI. Family and friends are invited and welcome to attend.
Jerry & Terry LaBarre

Jerry & Therese "Terry" LaBarre

Gerald LaBarre Obituary & Guest Book for 'Condolences'.

Note: The following was copied from the Florida Chapter " Sages To Remember" web page:

"01.27 Posting. Jerry LaBarre Contacted by Eunice Harris and Jim Davis. Jim had Called Jerry's son, Mike, and, as best he could understand on a gargle line, reports: 'I just finished talking to Mike LeBarre (Jerry's son) and he filled me in on Jerry's death..Jerry died Jan 5th of complications from diabetes and pneumonia. A small family service was held and Jerry was cremated. Another service will be held later also and his remains will be interned in New York. Jerry's wife Terry is in a nursing home there in Florida and is doing quite well physically...they have taken her off some medication and it has helped...That's about all I know....I served with Jerry at different locations and enjoyed our association...a lot of work and of course a lot of good memories as well. We enjoyed using "SKYPE" communicating over the years....I will miss him and our association'."

What a coincidence, Jerry LaBarre & Tom Bressan were born in the same town, Woonsocket RI, and both served as airbourne equipment operators (SEO's) in AFTAC. ...Dale

Gerald "Jerry" LaBarre was a 'Life' member of the West Coast Chapter.

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TOM BRESSAN
(Photo pub in the Sac Bee)

Tom Bressan-2

(Fm 09/17/2011 Picnic
Breitwieser Album)

BRESSAN, THOMAS RENZO, MSgt USAF Retired
b. 16-Dec-1942; d. 28-Jan-2015 in Fair Oaks, CA

Obit as published in the Sacramento Bee 6-Feb-2015.

Thomas Renzo Bressan born December 16, 1942 to William and Bruna Bressan, passed away on January 28, 2015. His battle with cancer ended suddenly surrounded by his family. He is survived by his wife Raissa Bressan, brother William Bressan, sister Elaine Richer, children-Lynne Bressan, John Bressan, Tanya Mackie, grandchildren- Serena Anderson, Tristen Anderson, Arianna Anderson, great granddaughter Vanessa Anderson along with multiple cousins, nieces and nephews.

Thomas was born in Woonsocket, Rhode Island and joined the US Air Force in 1960. He served for 22 years and retired in 1982. He loved spending time with his family, camping/ fishing and traveling. He was a mean harmonica player and enjoyed late nights with friends playing music and enjoying life. He was loved by many and could strike up a conversation with anyone. He will be greatly missed by many. In honoring his wishes, there will be no service or memorial. In lieu of flowers/cards, please make a donation in his name to the American Cancer Society.

NOTE: Tom was a life member of AFTAC Alumni Association, West Coast Chapter and a frequent attendee at our spring picnics. Born just 12 days after me, he was a personal friend of mine as we worked together as "C" and "U" system technicians in the 1960's. We reminisced about old times during our occasional meetings while shopping in the McClellan commissary. I'll miss his always-friendly attitude and warm smile. Dale

Obit and guest book available online in the Sacramento Bee.

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DICK CHAMBERLAIN
Photo pub in the Sac Bee

CHAMBERLAIN, Richard Eugene "Dick", LtCol USAF Retired
b. 12-Sep-1924; d. 01-Jan-2015 in Sacramento

Obit as published in the Sacramento Bee 7-Jan-2015

Dick is survived by his wife of 69 years, Virginia; son Richard Jr. and his wife Cheryl, son Shawn, and daughter Rebecca and her husband John; four grandchildren, nine great-grandchildren, sister Evelyn, brother Jack, and many nieces and nephews.
Services will be held at 2 p.m. on Friday, Jan. 9th at Mount Vernon Memorial Park, preceded by visitation at 1 p.m. The family requests that, in lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to the American Cancer Society or Cal Farley's Boys Ranch near Amarillo, Texas.
Dick was born in Norfolk, Nebraska, the third child of John Harold Chamberlain and Clara Belle Dobney. With the onset of the Great Depression, his family moved to a farm where he grew up during the dust bowl years.
He enlisted in the U.S. Army Air Corps in 1942 and graduated from pilot training in Texas in 1945. He was transferred to Williams Field, Arizona, where he met Virginia Bowman who became his bride on November 16, 1945. One month prior to their marriage, he was released from active duty. He served in the Air Force Reserve until he was recalled to active duty in April 1953. Dick had assignments throughout Texas, Mississippi, Kansas and Massachusetts in addition to deployments to Korea, Turkey and Southeast Asia.
He was a command pilot with over 8,000 hours of flying time, which included more than 700 hours of combat flying time. He flew 23 different military aircraft and received numerous awards and decorations, including the Distinguished Flying Cross, the Air Medal, the Meritorious Service Medal, and the Air Force Commendation Medal. He retired in 1974 after 31 1/2 years of military service.
He was a local volunteer in state and federal politics after his retirement. He liked traveling, playing golf, collecting clowns and model cars, vegetable gardening, and, most of all, spending time with family.

Webmaster note:
LtCol Chamberlain worked with Lew Horne in Logistics at the 1155th TechOpsSq back in the 1970's.
Dick was a LIFE member of the AFTAC Alumni Association - West Coast Chapter.

Obit and guest book available online at Sacramento Bee.

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STEVE FRITTS
from WCC 2013 Picnic Album

SLIDESHOW
of Steve in his element
(takes a min or so to download)
Provided by Clark Creery,
LRDAA Membership Chairman

GARY 'STEVE' FRITTS
b. 8-Mar-1948; d. 15-Jul-2014 in Sacramento, CA

GARY STEPHEN FRITTS, went to be with the Lord Jesus on 7-15-14 after a long & courageous battle with Congestive Heart Failure. He leaves behind the Love of his Life, Donna (Billups), who loved & adored him with all her Heart & Soul. Also his precious Black cat, Sasha. Stephen & Donna loved to travel. In their 37 yrs of marriage they had wonderful Adventures in 50+ Countries & most of the U.S.A. Some of the favorite countries being, Israel (where a Tree was planted in their Honor), Turkey, Africa, Egypt, Russia, Jordon (lost City of Petra), Eastern Europe & especially Karlovy Vary in the Czech Republic. They sailed to Norway on the Queen Victoria & England to New York on the QE II. They also loved to Snow Ski at Heavenly Valley, Lake Tahoe & Banff Springs, Canada. Stephen was born in Lenoir City, Tenn. to Ralph & Velma Fritts. Stephen attended the Univ. of Tenn. In 1968 he enlisted in the Air Force where he was trained in electronics & his first assignment was in the organization that was responsible for detecting & collecting nuclear detonations world wide. His initial duties were to fly as an aircrew member collecting debris from these nuclear events. Stephen continued these airborne duties for 15 years until health issues grounded him & he transferred within AFTAC to become a laboratory analyst & retired after 24 years of active service.

Steve was a designated Chief Airman aircrew member with over 3000 flight hours & the recipient of numerous personal awards for Outstanding Performances, Achievements & Commendations to include three Meritorious Service Medals & two Air Medals for Meritorious Achievement while Participating in Aerial Flight. Steve loved the Air Force & had a passion for all things involving flight & space. During his career he was involved in numerous missions in support of NASA Space Shuttle launches.

His aircrew member assignments whetted his appetite for aviation & he devoted much of his retirement to Research & became deeply involved in the Aerospace Museum of California. Working voluntarily at the museum as crew chief for their F-104 Starfighter. He loaned many of his personal aviation memorabilia to enhance the static display of the F-104. Steve also served as Secretary of the Museum's Board of Directors. He served with Distinction.

After retiring from the Air Force he received a Masters Degree in Computer Science from National University - "Cum Laude" He was employed by the County of Sacto. for 10 years as an I.T. Manager with Health & Human Services.

Stephen also leaves, Son, Col. John A. Nicholson, USMC, Ret. (Madeline), Grand children, Ashley, Courtney & Logan. Sisters, Patricia Bennett (John), Sandra Fritts, Brother, Archie (Beverly) & Many Beloved Nieces & Nephews. (Nephew: Sgt. Grant Bennett USAF spent much time with Uncle Stephen)

Funeral Services, with "Military Honors" were held at 11:00 AM Friday, 01-Aug-2014, at Fair Oaks Presbyterian Church, 11427 Fair Oaks Blvd. Fair Oaks, CA. Reception in the church hall followed.
Note: AFTAC-WCC was well represented. Seen at the services were: Tom Niquette, Dave Paquette, Al & Ann Pavik, Ken & Cathleen Denbleyker, Bob & Tommie Baker, Butch & Laurie Kemna, Charlie Penn, Ken Breitwieser, Tom Bressan, and Bob & Darlene 'Leilani' Fitzgerald; also there was Tom Osborne.

A small intimate Service of Inurnement will follow on Monday, Aug. 4th
at the National Military Cemetery in Dixon at 12:30 PM.
In lieu of flowers you may donate to "Heart Assoc." or "Wounded Warriors".

Link to the Sacramento Bee for Steve's Obituary & Guest Book published 7/23/2014.

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BOB MORRISON
from WCC 2013 Picnic Album

ROBERT L. MORRISON
b. 15-Jan-1938; d. 21-Jun-2014 in Fair Oaks, CA

ROBERT LLOYD MORRISON, MSGT USAF (RET) was born in Boston, MA on January 15, 1938. He passed away on June 21, 2014 in Fair Oaks, CA from complications of cancer. He is survived by his wife of 47 years, Carol Faye; son Lloyd Scott Morrison and wife Amy, grandsons Sloan and Jake; son Michael Todd Morrison and wife Angie, grandson Michael Todd Jr and granddaughter Makailuh May; daughter Heather Edlund and grandson Ian Edlund; brother Kenneth Morrison and wife Sam, nephew Keith, nieces Bess and Dory; and Bob's best friend Joan McDermott.

Robert (Bob) graduated in 1956 from Millis High School, Millis, MA. He served in the US Air Force 1958 - 1979; serving 19 years with the AFTAC organization. His tours in AFTAC included Thailand; HQ, 1035th Field Activities Group, Washington DC; 1156th TOS, Det 454, Hawaii; and 1155th Technical Operations Squadron, McClellan AFB, CA. His active duty tours were followed by 14 years as a civilian equipment specialist at McClellan AFB, CA.

He is a member of the Carmichael Elks Lodge 2103; Harding San Juan Lodge 579, Scottish Rite, Valley of Sacramento; and Ben Ali Shriners, Sacramento.

Contributions in Bob's memory may be made to Mercy Hospice, 9912 Business Park Dr, Suite 100, Sacramento, CA 95827 or the American Cancer Society.

A memorial service was held at the Carmichael Elks Lodge, 5631 Cypress Ave, Carmichael, CA on July 11 at 1:00 PM.

Note: The Carmichael Elks Lodge held a short Elk Memorial Service for Bob, followed by a very nice reception & buffet lunch held by the family in another lodge meeting room. The reception proceedings were Emcee'd by Bob's eldest son, Lloyd. Of the eighty or so people there, AFTAC-WCC members in attendance included: Al & Ann Pavik, Cal & Alice Brown, Peggy Armintrout & dau. Kristi, Bob & Darlene 'Leilani' Fitzgerald, and Alan Cramlet. Also seen there was Jerry Wehling, also another AFTAC Alumni though not currently a member of our West Coast Chapter. ... Bob Fitzgerald, Webmaster

Sacramento Bee Obituary & Guest Book Entry

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GAYLE JOHNSON
from Sac Bee Obit

GAYLE JOHNSON
b. 22-Aug-1934; d. 11-Jul-2013 in Sacramento, CA

Obituary as received 7/19/2013 from Joe:

Gayle Lee Johnson (nee Martin) passed away suddenly on 11 July 2013. She was born 22 August 1934 in Powell, Nebraska. She lived for many years in the Roseville area and was a retail salesperson, quilter, mother, and grandmother. She was 78 years old when she passed away from natural causes after a long struggle with multiple sclerosis. She is survived by her husband of 60 years, Joseph Johnson, her daughter Carol Bowman, and her son Robert Johnson, all residents of Carmichael; by her grand children Kristen Bowman and James Bowman, both of Santa Monica; and by her sisters Patricia Will of Woodburn, Oregon, and Kathleen Hall of Philomath, Oregon. She was preceded in death by her sister Dennis Freer and her brother Armond Martin. Gayle graduated in 1974 from Sacramento State University after a very active life as an Air Force wife. She particularly loved the family's posting to Wheeler, AFB, in Wahiawa, Hawaii, where she pursued her continuing education in Home Economics at the University of Hawaii. She was an avid cook and quilter, and was a member of the Roseville Quilters Guild. Her zest for the domestic arts was infectious and was shared with all those who knew her.

On Monday, July 29, after the private internment at the Sacramento Valley National Cemetery, Dixon, family and friends are invited to a life celebration reception in the Fireside Room of the Lutheran Church of the Good Shepherd, 1615 Morse Ave, Sacramento, from 2:00 until 5:00.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society.
Sacramento Bee Obituary and Guest Book

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ORVILLE J HOLLSTEIN

TSgt ORVILLE JOHN HOLLSTEIN, USAF (Ret)
b. 21-Jun-1928; d. 03-Jun-2013, Colton, CA

Born to John and Viva Hollstein. Proceeded in death by brother (Harvey) and sister (Charlene). Survived by brother (George), sister (Janet), wife of 62 years (Betty), son (Robert) and his wife (Carol), grandchildren (Jon, Heather, David), great grandchildren (Natalie, Garrett, Nickolas, Alissa). Graduated Morenci High School (Michigan) in 1947. Joined Army Air Corps in June 1948, becoming US Air Force. Retired with 20 years of service as Tech Sergeant. Followed by retirement from the U.S. Postal Service as a letter carrier in Colton and Grand Terrace.

Active member as a Master Mason of Inland Empire Masonic Lodge (Rialto), recipient of Hiram Award, a 32 degree in Scottish Rite and York Rite (San Bernardino), a Noble to Al Malaikah Shrine (Los Angeles), past President of the Paradise Valley Shrine Club and parade unit, member of San Bernardino Elk's, Past Worthy Patron of Tri-Star Chapter 211 O.E.S., Past Associate Bethel Guardian of Job's Daughters (Rialto), Rainbow Dad for Rainbow for Girl's (Rialto), advisor of Order of DeMolay (Rialto).

He and wife were self sufficient till a year ago when complicated by health conditions. In lieu of flowers, please send donations in his honor to the Shriners Hospitals for Children (Los Angles 213-388-3151) or San Bernardino Scottish Rite Center Speech Clinic (909-887-4415). Viewing Sunday, June 9 from 4-8pm. Funeral Services, Monday, June 10 at 10am. Both at Montecito Memorial Park Chapel, Colton, CA. He will be given full military honors. Published in San Bernardino Sun on June 7, 2013.

Note: Orville was a life member of AFTAC WCC and stationed at 1155 TOS, 1963-68 & a member of the squadron softball team. Also stationed at TUSLOG Det 38.

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ROBERT M. DAVIS
(Photo from Sac Bee obit)

Col. ROBERT M. DAVIS, USAF (Ret)
b. 11-Jul-1922; d. 02-Feb-2013 in Roseville, CA

As published in the Sacramento Bee, 15-16 Feb 2013 Sac Bee Obit & Guestbook

(Col. Davis) Passed away peacefully in Roseville, CA after 90 long and joyous years, with Joan, his beloved wife of 67 years, and daughters Deborah and Leslie at his side. He was the father of four children, Bob Jr, Deborah, Douglas, and Leslie, all of whom adored and revered their father for his love of life, devotion to his wife, intellect, with, ethics, courage and best of all, friendship and support.

He will be fondly remembered by his family and friends made over the course of his 35-year Air Force career, golfer and other pastimes.

He preferred that there not be a public service. His extended family plans a private gathering to celebrate his life.

Note: Col Davis was Chief, Personnel & Administration at the 1155th Technical Operations Squadron in the mid 1960s.

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WILLIS "BILL"
JOHNSON
(Photo from Sac Bee obit)

WILLIS "BILL" JOHNSON
b. 28-Jul-1927; d. 19-Nov-2012 in San Pablo, CA

Notified 20Nov2012 by John Taylor > Confirmed by Joe Johnson > Obit provided by Dale Klug
Per Dale Klug: Attached is Bill Johnson's obituary (with spelling corrected) from the Sacramento Bee, another newspaper that spells "sergeant" as "sargent". Bill was a member of the West Coast Chapter.

JOHNSON, Willis Return, (Bill) MSgt, USAF, Retired July 28, 1927 - November 19, 2012.
Retired United States Air Force Master Sergeant Willis (Bill) Return Johnson slipped peacefully away into the arms of the Angels. His departure to his next mission occurred at 8:15 am., Monday November 19, 2012 at Doctors Medical Center in San Pablo, California. He was surrounded by family members at the time of his passing.
Bill was born to Willis Milton Johnson and Henrietta Victoria CAREY John-son of Cheswold Delaware. Bill was the oldest of six children, having been preceded in death by his sister Calanthia Johnson, brother Charles Johnson and sister Ardella ''Dell'' JOHNSON Durham (Clinton Durham Sr. of Cheswold, Delaware). He is survived by his sister Dolores JOHNSON Carney Rivera of Kingman, Arizona; and brother Stanley Johnson (Patricia Johnson) of Felton Delaware. He also is survived by six nephews: Pete Carney (of Arizona), Clinton Jr., Steve, and Keith Durham, (of Delaware) Michael, and Jason Johnson (of Delaware); as well as numerous grand nieces and nephews.
Bill was a full blooded Native American from the Lenape Indian Tribe of Delaware as was also of a member of the tribe. His Native name is ''Thunder One.''
He is survived by an ex-wife, two daughters who are, Paula Wimmer (her husband Chris) and their three children Christian, Rebekah, and Naomi of Pinole, California. He is also survived by Brenda Odle, her daughters Dena Walls (her husband Fred) and Michelle Roseman-Yeo (her husband Mark) both of El Cerrito, California. Bill had the pleasure of 4 great-grandchildren - Antonio and Julian Walls and Charles and Juliet Sutherland. His grandchildren all know him as ''Grandpa Dude/Gramps'' and his Great-Grandchildren know him as ''Pop Pop.''
Bill was a World War II veteran. His military service took him to Germany, North Africa, Turkey, and various other United States Air Forces Bases. Upon entry into the service, his training took him into the field of weather service of the Army Air Corps. He provided weather analysis and reporting for air traffic. After a few years of this service, he was transferred to a secret mission where he provided analysis on the use of Special Weapons. To his departing day, his special weapons work was never spoke of. He had the highest degree of integrity and never divulged this top secret clearance work.
After retirement from the Service, he lived in numerous locations that included, Las Vegas, Nevada, Lake Havasu and Topock Arizona, Anacortes, Washington, Sacramento, Larkspur, and West Sacramento, California. He loved to travel as well as attend jazz festivals, bluegrass and western swing events, car races, Baseball games as well as Spring training. Bill was very outgoing and he never met a stranger.
Bill was a person that lived life to its fullest. If there was something that needed to be done, it was done. He will be missed dearly. As his family says, NO words could describe him; you had to ''experience him.'' The family wishes that in lieu of any flowers, that donations be made in his honor to the American Cancer Society. Gravesite services are pending. From the 25 Nov 2012 Sacramento Bee: Sacramento Bee Obit

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MICHAEL
"JERRY"
MORAN
(Photo not avail)

MICHAEL J. "JERRY" MORAN
b. 10-Aug-1941 in Butte, Montana; d. 29-Aug-2009 in Kailua-Kona, Hawaii

All of this information quoted from the FL Chapter website 7/22/2012:

Michael's death became known when Clark Creery, FL Chapter Membership Chair, asked Dave Ladd, info to Dale Klug, CA Chapter, about Michael. Dave did some research and found this information and passed it along. Later Dale provided rank and month of retirement. Thanks to the three of you for thinking of this Sage.

Missoulian (Montana Newspaper), September 03, 2009 KAILUA-KONA, Hawaii -
Michael J. (Jerry) Moran, 68, passed away on Aug. 29, 2009, at the home of his daughter, Colleen, in Kailua-Kona, Hawaii, after a courageous battle with gastric cancer. Jerry was born on Aug. 10, 1941, to Aggie (Sheehan) and James E. (Bud) Moran in Butte. He attended St. Patrick's grade school and graduated in 1959 from Boys' Central High. In 1963, he received his Bachelor of Science in chemistry from Montana State College along with his ROTC commission as a second lieutenant in the U.S. Air Force. He received a PhD in Biochemistry from the University of Cincinnati in 1972, and was a graduate of the Defense Systems Management College. In 1965, he married Kathy Costello of Billings and together they raised three wonderful daughters, Mary, Katie and Colleen. They were the joy of his life. Jerry had a wonderful sense of humor and a strong dedication to his family and his country. During his 20-year career with the Air Force, he served at the United States Air Force Academy as associate proof biochemistry and associate air officer commander for the Cadet Wing during induction of women into the Academy. Other assignments included: launch control officer with the Atlas "ABRES" Program; analytical chemist and chief of the Chemistry Division at the USAF Materials Lab at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio; chief of nuclear chemistry at McClellan Air Force Base in California; deputy director at the Shuttle Activation Task Force at Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. He earned the Senior Missile Badge, the Senior Space Badge and the Meritorious Service Medal with two oak leaf clusters. He retired in (Lt Col, Oct) 1986 and began a career in environmental engineering, working with military installations in the United States and Guam.

Michael (Jerry) was preceded in death by his parents; his daughter, Mary; and his grandson, Mikie. He is survived by Kathy Costello Moran of Seal Beach, Calif.; daughter, Colleen Moran, of Kailua-Kona; daughter and son-in-law, Katie and Joe DeCastro and granddaughters, Cassie and Mikayla DeCastro of Lake Ridge, Va.; his siblings; Jim (Kay) Moran of Corvallis, Ore., Jon Moran of Seattle, Judy (Bill) Edwards of St. Regis and Father Joe Pat Moran of Missoula; his aunts and uncle, Harriet Neier of Tucson, Ariz., and Phil (Hazel) Moran of Tigard, Ore.; and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins in Montana, Washington, Oregon, Arizona, Alaska and Nevada. Memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society or to a charity of the donor's choice. A private family service (was) held.

Michael "Jerry" Moran was a 'Life' member of the West Coast Chapter.

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MARGE ISKE
Photo cropped from the
12-Nov-2011
Fall Social Album

MARGARET ANN (Marge) ISKE
b. 4-Jan-1937 in North Bend, NE; d. 29-Jan-2012 in Elk Grove, CA

= = = Link to: Obituary & Guest Book published in the Sacramento Bee 05-Feb-2012 = = =

Per email from Dale Klug dtd 29-Jan-2012: Dale had received a call from Al Pavik "asking about Marge. He & Ann had heard Marge was hospitalized and then transferred to a full-care facility in/near Elk Grove."

In a followup message from Dale dtd 31-Jan-2012, Dale reported he had "received a call today from Ann Pavik informing me that Marge had passed away." Dale said that Ann had received the news from a member of NARFE. Dale went on to report in that same message that he "talked to Marge's "Sis", Helen this afternoon. Marge passed away on Sunday afternoon, Jan 29th. There will be no service and at her request Marge is being cremated." Dale also said that he "asked Helen if she thought it would be appropriate if we had a "Wine and War Stories" get together in Marge's honor. Helen thinks Marge would like that, especially the 'wine' part."

And from Clark Creery's entry in her Obituary Guest Book:
"Marge was secretary to Al Pavik when I was at McClellan. The word of her passing was quite a surprise. She was a wonderful person and will be missed. Rest peacefully Marge. ... Clark Creery, Melbourne, Florida"

And from Dale Klug:
"Marge worked in 1155th TOS/Technical Operations Division from 1965 to her retirement in Jan 1998. During those years, she served as a civilian secretary in MCL, LGE and Operations."

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ROSALIE ALLISON
photo taken by
Bob Fitzgerald
16-May-2009
and cropped from
the annual picnic album

ROSALIE ALLISON, b. 26-Oct-1927 in Dexter, KS. d. 8-Aug-2010 in Sacramento

A Memorial Service for Rosalie is being arranged by her children, daughter Kim Preston and son Brian Allison:

Memorial Service - Saturday, October 29th, 2011 - 2pm to 6pm
at the Carmichael Elks Lodge, 5631 Cypress Ave., Carmichael, CA 95608
There will be finger food provided. Wayne Stoops will Emcee the program.
For questions, please contact Kim at <kimmerallison@sbcglobal.net>, or phone (530) 589-0250.
Correspondence can be mailed to: Kim Preston, 469 Silver Leaf Drive, Oroville, CA 95966-3938.

Note from WCC Webmaster:
Rosalie became a LIFE member of the WCC upon the death of her husband, LtCol 'Jack' Allison, who passed away 24-Jan-2009. Jack was the President of the AFTAC Alumni Assoc. - West Coast Chapter when he passed away.
He was also a vital member of most all of our past reunion committees, including the very first one held back in 1983.
See Jack's entry further below on this page for more details. … bf

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WAYNE REECE
MSgt USAF Ret.

(Photo not avail)

WAYNE REECE, MSgt USAF Ret., d.13-Apr-2011

In an email 16 Apr 2011 from Dale Klug, Subject: Passing of MSgt (ret) Wayne Reece:
"Wayne was a life member of AFTAC Alumni Association, West Coast Chapter.":

From the obituary as published in The Sacramento Bee on April 16, 2011:

"REECE, Wayne E., May 29, 1933 - April 13, 2011"
"Wayne E. Reece, age 77, of Carlton, OR died on April 13, 2011 in McMinnville, OR. Memorial services are pending. Arrangements by Macy and Son Funeral Directors." Sac Bee Obit & guest book

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ARNOLD J. CELICK
as a Major
Col Arne Celick, USAF Ret

ARNOLD J. CELICK
Col USAF Ret.
Photos provided by
Paula Celick

ARNOLD "ARNE" J. CELICK, COL. USAF Ret., b. 11-May-1923, d.23-Nov-2010

From an obit written by Paula Celick, Arne's Widow, on 07 Oct 2011.

Arne "Passed away peacefully in his home in Auburn, CA. next to his loving wife of 33 years. He served 32 years in the USAF, starting out as a 1st Lt. in the US Air Corp at the end of WWII. After the war he returned to Wisconsin and went to work as a pharmacist for a couple of years (then married to his first wife, Betty with their two children, John and Martha). Then the Korean War broke out and Uncle Sam recalled him to active duty, this time it was the USAF and he took full advantage of all the math and science he had acquired in college by working in the Atom Bomb Project for a number of years, then was recruited to join the 1155th at McClellan, where he spent the last 15 years of his service carrier and retired in 1974. When he married Paula in 1977, he acquired two stepchildren, Terri (Murdock) Reed and Dan Murdock. Arne loved to travel; he and Paula spent 28 of their 33 yrs together traveling the globe, having one adventure after another; visiting old friends and making new ones. He took pride in staying in touch with his old friends at the 1155th and counted many as his favorites, especially those whom he had directly been responsible for getting promoted. Arne was laid to rest on January 14th, 2011, at the Sacramento Valley Veterans Cemetery in Dixon, CA. He is sorely missed."

In an email message 10/07/2011 from Peggy Rheault, widow of Charles "Ray" Rheault (d. Feb 1994) who was NCOIC of the Chem Section of MCL when Major Celick was the Chief: "Ray said, 'Major Celick was a wonderful man to work for and that he learned a lot from him.'"

Info from Dale Klug in a 12/08/2010 email message:
Col Arne Celick buried on Friday, 14 Jan 2011 at 1100 hours at the Sacramento Valley National Cemetery, 5810 Midway Rd., Dixon. < MAP>.

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JAMES E. ESPING
Lt.Col. USAF Ret.

photo cropped from
Picnic album taken
by Ken Breitwieser
19-May-2007

JAMES EUGENE ESPING d.12-Sep-2010

Born in Lindsborg, Kansas December 3, 1923. Passed peacefully at home September 12, 2010 in Sacramento, CA at the age of 86. Jim was a World War II veteran and received his pilot wings in December 1944. On November 25, 1945 he married Mary Jane Lambertson. He was recalled to active duty in 1952 during the Korean Conflict and remained on active duty until his retirement in 1973. Survived by wife Mary; son Charles; daughter Linda Brock and husband Tim; beloved grandchildren, Alison, Joshua, Erik and Stephanie and husband Nick; sisters, Lillian Nelson and Marji Sartori of Lindsborg, Kansas. Preceded in death by parents, Julius and Myrtle Esping and brother Robert Esping. He will be forever loved and missed by his family and friends.
Memorial service: 11am, Sept 21, Arcade Wesleyan Church, 3532 Whitney Ave., Sacramento. < MAP>
Viewing: 10:00am-12:00pm, Sept 23 at Lind Brothers, 4221 Manzanita Ave., Carmichael. < MAP>
Burial: 1:30pm, Sept 23 at Sacramento Valley National Cemetery, 5810 Midway Rd., Dixon. < MAP>
Memorials may be made to church or charity of your choice.
As published in The Sacramento Bee on September 18, 2010 < Obituary & Guest Book>

Jim was a member of a past AFTAC reunion planning committee with committee meetings held at his and Mary's home. I remember the delicious cookies Mary would make for us. … Bob Fitzgerald, Webmaster

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ORVILLE
PRITCHARD

photo by Bob Fitzgerald
from Fall Social
15-Nov-2009

ORVILLE PRITCHARD d.24-Apr-2010

Memorial service will be Tuesday, 11-May-2010 at 10:00 am in the Chapel at
Mt. Vernon Memorial Park, 8201 Greenback Ln., Fair Oaks, CA 95628 >>-> MAP <-<<
Sacramento Bee Obituary 9-May-2010. Guest book also available.

Per information relayed to us via email by Dale Klug, 25-Apr-2010:

":FYI: I was informed this morning by a mutual friend & neighbor of Orv's that he passed away yesterday, Saturday, April 24th. Chief Moses says that Orv was on duty Thursday as a volunteer at the Retiree Activities Office at McClellan and seemed fine then. He appeared in good health Friday evening, but Saturday he suffered a cardiac arrest and was taken to the hospital by a Sacramento Fire Dept Emergency Response Team. He was revived and talking for about twenty minutes when he had another arrest and could not be revived."

27-Apr Update fm Dale:
"I was informed today while at the McClellan RAO that arrangements for Orv Pritchard are on hold pending the arrival of his son, Senior Chief Petty Officer Mark Pritchard, USCG. SCPO Pritchard's anticipated arrival in Sacramento is on Monday, 3 May."

Orv was very active in our West Coast Chapter (WCC) organization, also during AFTAC Worldwide Reunion planning sessions here in Sacramento. Orv was the WCC "Director At Large" from Oct 2001 to Dec 2005, and then became the WCC "Assistant Chairman Of The Board of Directors" in Dec 2005, a post he held until his death. His passing will leave a hole that will be hard to fill and we all will miss him. … Bob Fitzgerald

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RICHARD
DAVIS Jr.

photo from the obituary

RICHARD DAVIS JR. b. 27-Feb-1935, d. 21-Apr-2010
Per information sent to us by Richard's wife, Marlene, via email on 1-May:

":My beloved Husband, Richard D Davis Jr, passed away on April 21, 2010. address is P O Box 318 , Jaffrey, NH 03452"

Please see the Obituary for Richard Davis Jr.
published by Cournoyer Funeral Home, Jaffery, NH where you can also sign a guest card.

Quoting from portions of the published obituary:
… "Dick was a lifetime member of the Air Force Sergeants Association; a lifetime member and Past Commander of VFW Post #5613 in Jaffrey, Past Commander and member of Post #11 American Legion of Jaffrey, lifetime member of Post #38 American Legion of Fitzwilliam; he was a Past District Commander of the American Legion District 1 in NH and a member of the ‘40 & 8’, the organization for leaders of the American Legion." …

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JOHN ABBOTT
7/5/1937-3/3/2010
photo from obit pub
in The Oregonian

Per information from Bob Miller via relay from the Florida Chapter, 15-Apr-2010:

":John Abbott was among the finest NCO's I encountered in 28 years of service, and 333 was where we first met. If you can get a notice in the Alumni News I'd be appreciative." … Bob Miller

Please click on this link to " The Oregonian" for John Abbott's obituary & guest book published 6-Mar-2010.

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GERALD E.
PRESSLEY
Photo not available

The following notice appeared in the Yuba City, APPEAL-DEMOCRAT on Saturday, 13 Feb 2010:

"Gerald E. Pressley 80 of Smartsville passed away February 8, 2010. Private Services. Arrangements are under the direction of Holycross Memorial Services."

In an email message on 13 Feb 2010 from John Lanigan, John says: "I talked to Gerry's daughter, Ruth Pressley Thayer who told me there would be a cremation and without any formal services. Gerry was a long time member of 1009th SWS, 1035th USAF FAG and AFTAC. I do not know his service history but I believe his final assignment in AFTAC was in the 'Q' system."

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ALLEN J. "AJ"
JOHNSON
Photo not available

In an email message dtd 17Jan2010 from Morgan Harper Johnson, "methodmaticians@yahoo.com", (which she sent to Tom Riley who forwarded it to us on 22Jan2010), Morgan says this about her husband, AJ:

"We regret to inform you that Allen J. “AJ” Johnson died on Monday, 11 January 2010 of natural causes. He was 62, a licensed pilot, Expert class HAM radio operator, a professional photographer and a senior programmer. Specially selected and trained in nuclear physics, AJ served in the U.S. Air Force from 1965 through 1971 during Viet Nam. An Honors Graduate of Centennial High School, Pueblo , Colorado , AJ worked with IBM for 22 years, JPMorgan Chase Bank for 10 and, most recently, was employed as a Middleware Specialist by the Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas . His family is holding a memorial with military honors in Pueblo on 23 January. He is survived by his wife, Morgan Harper Johnson, his son, Allen J. Johnson II, his brother, Ed Wheeler, and his sisters, Van Pace, Noelle Faricy, Evera Wheeler and Deidre Mihelich, together with their families. His loss is mourned by friends and colleagues and his step-daughters, Laura Edwards and Heather Hancock."

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Franz "Herb"
Dettmer
from photo in the
Sacramento Bee obit

Col. Franz "Herb" Dettmer, USAF Ret., passed away 16Nov2009 peacefully at home.

Herb had a fall and broke his leg in May 2009 from which he never fully recovered. In addition to Lannie Hayes, (Herb's daughter), Esther Rogoyawa, a full time care giver, took care of Herb for the last 5 years. Lannie said that Herb also had two hospice care workers at home for the last week before his death.

Herb is survived by his sister, Marion Stenberg of Bellevue, Washington; - three loving daughters and sons-in-law: Lannie and Jim Hayes of Folsom, Cathy and Wayne Zahm of Arvada, Colorado, and Connie and Martin Dourte of Albuquerque, NM; as well as four grandchildren: Stephanie Moss of Folsom, Michelle Hanson of Arvada, Colorado, Krista Dourte of Austin, Texas, and Katie Dourte of Nashville, Tenn.; and three great-grandchildren: Katelyn and Austin Hanson and James Moss. Herb was preceded in death by his loving wife Jane, his daughter and son-in-law, Krista and William Martin and grandchild Sara Jane Martin.
>>>-> Sacramento Bee OBITUARY & GUEST BOOK <-<<<
Services for Herb were held at:
10am, Tuesday, 24 November 2009 at Christ The King Lutheran Church,
5811 Walnut, Orangevale, CA 95662.
Seen attending the services from the WCC were: Col & Mrs Al Pavik, John Miner,
Peggy Rheault, Bob & Darlene Fitzgerald, Charlie Penn and Joe Johnson.

I met Col Dettmer when as a SSgt I was first assigned in Apr 1964 to the 1155th TOS / MCL. I reported to TSgt John Miner in the Counting Room who reported to Col Dettmer. I had so much admiration and respect for Col Dettmer that I volunteered in Apr 1967 for a 2.5 yr assignment to Det 202 in Alaska where Col Dettmer was then the Detachment Commander. All of us thought the world of him and would have followed him anywhere. … Bob Fitzgerald

I am saddened by the news of Colonel Dettmer's passing. I served under him at Det 202 along with Bob Fitzgerald from Nov67 to Mar69. Even after all these years I remember what a kind gentle person he was. To Bob and all who knew him, I extend an upraised hand to toast Col Dettmer and those magic years. … Sincerely, Gary Hamm, Westminster, CO.

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Bobby Jones

Per telecon from Orville Pritchard, 08Aug2009, relaying word from Helen Jones:

Bobby Jones, passed away 02Aug2009 from a 2nd heart attack while in the hospital recovering from a 1st one. Orville had thought that Bobby Jones, along with Bo Ferris & Jim Davis were the 1st three SEO's, however, Jim "Red" Davis says in an email dtd 9Aug2009:
"Bo Ferris, Bobby Jones and I WERE NOT the ORIGINAL SEO'S...we may have been among the first, however I remember names like M/Sgt Thomas Hollingsworth, Ted Simms, Richard Brown, Dick MacCulsky, John Lanigan, Charlie Heckman Van Winkler, Cook, Chandler, Moles, Moran and a few others that I simply can't remember their names were there before we got there in 1953."

A memorial service for Bobby was held on Saturday, 15 Aug 2009 at 1300hrs at th
Sharer-Nightingale Funeral Chapel in Sacramento. Orville Pritchard gave the eulogy.
Note: To sign a guest comment card & /or read Bobby's obituary
as published 11Aug09 in the Sacramento Bee <<-<< click there

The prayers of all our AFTAC Alumni are with Helen.

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Clifford "Bo" Ferris
from Nov 2007 Fall Social
Bo Ferris USAF

Clifford "Bo" Ferris as a TSgt - Rcvd from Daniel Meyer, Step Son

Per message from Butch Kemna, dtd 18Jun2009, relaying word he received from Bob Dean:
Clifford "Bo" Ferris, USAF Retired, passed away at 2pm, 18 June 2009.

Per telecon from Bob Dean 22Jun:
Funeral Services were to be held at the VA Cemetery near Igo, CA, Map to Igo, CA.
on Monday, 29 June 2009 at 12:45pm.

UPDATE received 25Jun:
Thanks to Bo's Step Son, Daniel Meyer, Sr Chief Petty Officer, USCG Ret., we have both the obituary and the memorial available here in Adobe.pdf format:
Obituary & Memorial.

You may also view the obituary & sign the guest book
as published in the Record Searchlight Newspaper in Redding, CA.

The prayers of all our AFTAC Alumni are with Deannie.

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RICHARD
E. BURRY
Photo not available

A letter recently received by the WCC from Hilda Burry, told us of the March 2009 death of her husband, Richard, who was a Life member of both the WCC & the Florida Chapters of our Alumni Association.
Our thanks to John & Chris Horsch, our Florida Chapter "Post Monitor" Editors, whom were able to find his obituary through their local "Florida Today" newspaper research ability.

Richard E. Burry

Richard Burry, 77, of Lee's Summit (Missouri) passed away March 17, 2009 at St. Joseph Medical Center. Private graveside services were at Lee's Summit Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Lee's Summit meals on wheels or American Cancer Society . (Arr. Langsford Funeral Home, Lee's Summit)
Published in Kansas City Star on 3/20/2009.

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LEONARD DENNEY
Leonard Denney USAF

IN UNIFORM

SMSgt LEONARD A. DENNEY Sr., USAF Retired, of Neah Bay,WA died of a heart attack on February 24, 2009, at Olympic Medical Center in Port Angeles, WA. Obituary Notice

Our thanks to Bud Denney, Leonard's son, who first alerted us, then provided your webmaster with the photos, a link to the obit, and a copy of the eulogy he gave for his dad (excerpts of which are included here).

Excerpts of the EULOGY by Bud Denney: (To read all of it, please click here: EULOGY.)

Leonard Alvin Denney was born in Ola, Arkansas in Yell County. For all the fans who remember him at sporting events, Yell County makes a lot of sense. Ola, Arkansas had a population of 1,227 in the 2000 census; his affinity for small towns now makes sense as well. .......

....... In 1962 SMSgt (Senior Master Sergeant), Leonard A. Denney was nominated for "Outstanding Airman of the Year." Because of this, we have the following Biographical Report used in the submission for this award. "SMSgt Leonard A. Denney was born in Ola Arkansas, December 24, 1926. He .......

....... In June 1959 Sgt Denney was assigned to Det 205, 1155 TOS. At this time his family returned to their home town, Neah Bay, Washington. After completing this overseas tour he was assigned to 1155 tech Ops, Sq, McClellan AFB, Calif. His family accompanied him to this station. His fourth child, a girl was born there in May of 1961. He received his promotion to Senior Master Sergeant 1 Mar 1962.

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JACK ALLISON
From 2008-2009
Officers Group photo
by Bob Fitzgerald

LtCol JACK ALLISON, USAF Retired, WCC President, passed away on 24Jan2009 at age 84.
Jack retired, with just under 26 years active service, on 01Jun1974 at McClellan AFB, CA.

Here are excerpts from an article published by Dale Klug in the April 2009 issue of the "Depot Fallout":
(For all the details, please read Dale's well written NL article available from our 'Fallout' page.)

ALLISON, Jack G, LtCol, USAF, Retired, AFTAC Alumni West Coast Chapter President. Born in Coburg, Oregon, on November 21, 1924 and passed away on 24 Jan 2009, at age 84.
... His first tour of duty was on Tinian Island in the Pacific flying missions over Japan. While there he became aware of a special top secret project on the opposite side of the island which turned out to be the airfield from which the Enola Gay launched to drop the atomic bomb on Japan. As the war wound down, Jack's group dropped food supplies to US prisoners of war held in Japan which helped extend the lives of many of our soldiers.

... assignment was to 1035th Field Activities Group Headquarters in Washington DC in the early 60s; then on to Detachment 057, Lowry AFB Colorado. While there, Major Allison made frequent trips to Lackland AFB TX to interview and select basic trainees for Lowry's Special Electronic Equipment Technician School. Jack's next assignment was to Vietnam for a year. There he was exposed to Agent Orange, an exposure that would be ultimately fatal. After Vietnam, Jack was assigned to the 1155th Technical Operations Squadron, McClellan AFB California, where he served as Personnel Officer until he retired on 1 Jun 1974.

... article sparked his interest and lead him to Moller International to help work on a personal size "flying car". The Moller Skycar is a prototype personal VTOL (vertical take-off and landing) aircraft, called a "volantor" by its inventor Dr Paul Moller ...

In addition to being the 2007-2009 WCC President, Jack was chairman of our Board of Directors, 1999-2001, and a vital part of our past AFTAC worldwide reunions. He was a co-chairman for the very first AFTAC reunion held in Sacramento in Jun 1983 as well as the last one held here in May 2005.

Jack was interred in the Sacramento Valley National Cemetery in Dixon, CA on March 20. Along with many family members, friends and co-workers, about 20 AFTAC alumni attended the memorial service with an Air Force color guard providing full military honors. A reception and tour of Moller International in Davis CA followed the memorial service.

Editor's Note: Clark Wilberg, Dennis Ramey, Ralph Simonton, Tony DeMarco & Dale Klug were among those interviewed by Jack in the 60s.

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WILLARD ARMINTROUT
Sacramento Bee
Obituary Notice

Per message from Joe Johnson, dtd 09Mar2009, here is the
death notice that was published in the Sacramento Bee in Oct 2008:

LtCol WILLARD C. ARMINTROUT, USAF Retired.
Born in Piketon, Ohio on June 12, 1931 and passed away peacefully at home October 1, 2008. He will be greatly missed by his family & friends. He is survived by his wife, of 55 years, Peggy; 2 sons, Will Jr. (Betty) of Folsom, CA, Jeff of Florida & daughter Kristi (Steve) of Valley Springs, CA; 6 grand children & 5 great grand children; sister Janie & 3 nieces of Ohio. Friends are welcome for visitation on Mon., October 6th from 4-7pm, and funeral services on Tues., October 7th at 11am at LIND BROTHERS MORTUARY, and burial will be at the National Cemetery in Dixon, CA. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to First Call Home Care & Hospice 6929 Sunrise Blvd., Suite 180, Citrus Heights, CA 95610, or a charity of your choice.

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JIM LUCAS
From May 2007
WCC Picnic Album
by Dave Price

Per message from Dale Klug, "Depot Fallout" Newsletter Editor, dtd 13Feb2009:

MSgt JAMES S. "JIM" LUCAS, USAF Retired.
Born 7Nov1926, passed away on 24Jan2009 at age 82 in Minerva, OH.

Jim had been having heart problems for some time and in late September 2008 suffered a stroke and fell while walking. His daughter, Sabra Lucas, arrived on 01Oct2008 and Jim decided to sell his home in North Highlands and move to Ohio to be with her. The home sold very quickly and on 09Nov2008 they drove back to Ohio. On 24Jan2009, Jim had a massive coronary and passed away.

  Jim worked for many years at the 1155th Tech Ops Squadron, McClellan Central Laboratory (MCL) before his retirement in August 1978. He was preceded in death by his wife, Annie. He was interred 02Feb2009 at Mt. Vernon Memorial Park, Fair Oaks, CA. Expressions of sympathy may be sent to Sabra Lucas, 501 N. Market St., Minerva, OH 44657.

  Dale also says that the family did not have an obituary published and that he obtained most of the above information during a phone call with Jim's daughter.

  Add'l comment by Bob Fitzgerald, WCC Webmaster:
Jim was our reunion Treasurer and a vital part of most of our reunion planning committees for past AFTAC World-Wide Reunions held here in Sacramento. Since I was the Reunion Registrar for most of those, Jim and I worked very closely together on them. Until he left the area in November 2008, Jim was also a member of the California State Old Time Fiddlers Association, for which he, Nick Pketza, who is a fellow 1155th TOS Alumni, and I enjoyed the monthly District #5 Jam Sessions at the Orangevale Grange Hall.

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BILL MULLINAX
Photo not available
at this time

Per message from Ken Breitwieser, WCC Secretary, dtd 01Feb2009:

SMSgt BILLY R. MULLINAX, USAF Retired.
Born 27Jun1931. Passed away 27Jan2009.
A U.S. Air Force veteran who proudly served his country for 29 years. Bill was born on June 27, 1931 in Gadsden, AL and left us on Tuesday January 27, 2009 in Sacramento, CA at age 77. Bill loved football and coached at many levels, from Pop Warner to semi-professional. Bill was also an avid golfer who enjoyed playing a round or two with his friends when his health allowed. He is survived by his loving wife of 54 years, Jane Mullinax, and his three sons, David, Richard, and William. Bill is also survived by his three beautiful grandchildren who always made him smile, Kayla, Alex, and Tracy. The family will be holding a private service.
Note: This info was repeated from his death notice published in the Sacramento Bee

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VINCENT BAUMAN
Photo not available
at this time

[via message from FL Chapter dtd 16Feb09],
The following was received from John Bauman (Vincent's son):

LtCol VINCENT A BAUMAN, USAF Retired.
Passed away 28Dec2008 at the age of 91.

(This is) an obituary letter to the Alumni Assn for my father, Lt Col (Ret) Vincent A. Bauman. My father was very proud of his membership in AFTAC and the Association, and I know that he would want his friends and associates to know of his passing. Thanks very much, Sincerely, John V. Bauman, Colonel USAF (Retired).
................................
It is with sad regret that I announce the passing of my father, Lt Col (Ret) Vincent A. Bauman, on 28 December 2008, at the age of 91. Dad was a very proud member of AFTAC and the Alumni Association, and spoke often of his membership and contributions to the mission of AFTAC. Vincent was drafted in early 1941 and served as an infantry office in the Army, earning two bronze stars and a purple heart for his action in Europe in WWII. After the war, he was discharged, but joined the Air National Guard in St. Louis. His unit was recalled for the Korean conflict, and he decided to stay on active duty for a full career. He proudly wore his Combat Infantry Badge on his Air Force uniform even before it was authorized for wear. If my memory is correct, he served in AFTAC from about 1956 through 1962, and those were some of his proudest moments of service in the Air Force. He took great pride in saying that one of the projects upon which he worked remains classified even today. He retired from the Air Force in 1967 after 22 years of active duty. He was buried in his uniform with full military honors. On behalf of Dad, thanks to everyone who knew him and who contributed to this critical role of AFTAC in the defense of our great Nation.