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Departures - 2016

Obituaries on the Departures pages were submitted by family or friends. Some notifications only provide the name and year of death and are posted on the deceased members list (for members only).

We publish departures based on the year listed in the obituary. If no year is listed then we publish them when they are received.

Florence Mae ("Flo") Westphal, age 94, widow of Lt Col (Ret.) Louis A. Westphal, died peacefully December 28, 2016 at Pisgah Manor Health Care Center in Candler, North Carolina. Florence was born to Vertice and Velma Addison in Montfort, Wisconsin, on March 10, 1922. With her sisters Arlene and Jean, she lived a happy, active life on the family's dairy farm in rural southwestern Wisconsin. She particularly liked riding her horse through the pastures and helping her dad with farm chores. After high school, she attended Platteville Teacher's College, where she met her future husband Louis in chemistry class. She went on to earn her degree in nursing from the University of Wisconsin. On May 17, 1944, Flo and Lou were married at Ellsworth Air Force Base in Rapid City, South Dakota, marking the beginning of Flo's life as a military wife. Lou and Flo traveled with the Air Force and raised their family of seven children in New York City, California, Washington, D.C., Texas, Bermuda, Japan, and Illinois. Flo was an accomplished seamstress who sewed many of the clothes for her children and grandchildren; she was also an excellent cook and baker. In 1974, Lou and Flo moved with their two daughters to Asheville, North Carolina. They loved Asheville, and felt that there was no better place to have landed for their retirement years. In Asheville, Flo was an active member and the first female Elder of Emmanuel Lutheran Church. She cherished her friendships with her church family. Flo served her community by volunteering for several organizations. She sewed and curated many of the original costumes for ABCCM's "Return to Bethlehem" production and acted in the production every year 1986-2013. Flo participated in one of the first volunteer training programs for Mountain Area Hospice, and was a trained Rape Crisis Center advocate and American Red Cross volunteer. Flo was recognized by Governor Jim Hunt for her extensive volunteer efforts in her community. When Lou fell ill, Flo faithfully and expertly cared for him until his death in 2006. She then lived on her own at home until she moved to Pisgah Manor in 2014. Flo felt happy and secure at Pisgah Manor, and her family is most grateful to all of the staff who served her with tender loving care. Flo was preceded in death by her parents; her sisters and their husbands; and her in-laws Gertrude, Ruth, Lloyd, and Henry. She was also preceded by Lou, her beloved husband of 62 years, her sons Roger and Bruce (survived by partner Karen Jones of Seattle), and her daughter-in-law, Donna. She is survived by her son Mark of Carbondale, Illinois and his children Aaron and his wife Susan, Nate and his wife Katie, and Danny and his friend Eden Armstrong. Also her son Jim and his wife Joyce of Breese, Illinois and their children Matt and his wife Kristin, Jenny Bassler and her husband Chris, and Carrie and her friend Chris Lundeberg. Also, her son Jay and his wife Lydia of Newport Beach, California. Also, her daughter Betty Neal of Eagle, Colorado and her children Harrison and Jay. Also, Flo's daughter Ellie McCormac and her husband Doug of Asheville, and their children Rob and Claire. Flo is also survived by her grandchildren Stephen and Leslie Westphal. She is also survived by great-grandchildren Avery Westphal; Olivia, Elyse, and Bailey Bassler; and Max and Lydia Westphal; sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law Edward Westphal, Alvin Cook, Alvera Eckelberg, and Doris Matias, all of Wisconsin, and Carl (Carol) Westphal of Florida; and many beloved nieces and nephews. Above all else, Flo loved her big, extended family and her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. A memorial service will be held at 2:00 pm Saturday, January 21, 2017, at Emmanuel Lutheran Church with the Rev. Michael McFarland officiating. Interment will be in the church memorial garden. Her family will receive friends immediately following the Service. Memorials may be made to the Emmanuel Lutheran Church Building Fund, 51 Wilburn Place, Asheville, NC 28806.

William Hellkamp age 90 of Fairfield, Iowa, passed away, Sunday, December 25, 2016 at Jefferson County Health Center. The Rosary will be 4:30 pm, Friday, December 30, 2016 at St. Mary Catholic Church. Visitation for family & friends will follow the Rosary from 5:00 pm – 6:30 pm and the Wake Service will start at 6:30 pm. The Funeral Mass will be 10:00 am, December 31, 2016 at St. Mary Catholic Church with Father Nick Adam officiating. Following the mass, he will be cremated. Burial of cremains will be at a later date. Memorials can be made to Fairfield Lions Club or St. Mary Catholic Church. Cards and memorials can be mailed to: Dorothy Hellkamp, 502 E. Burlington, Fairfield, IA 52556. William was born on November 11, 1926, in Cincinnati, OH to George and Lillian Hellkamp. He married Dorothy A. Hotz on June 10, 1950 in Delphos, OH. This year they celebrated 66 years of marriage. William served in the U.S. Army during World War II from 1945 to 1946. In 1949, he received a BS Degree from the University of Cincinnati along with an ROTC commission as a lieutenant in the U.S. Air Force. William returned to active duty with the Air Force in 1949 and served as a meteorologist. He attained the rank of Lt. Colonel. William was stationed in many parts of the world including Japan, the Philippines, Hawaii, and Spain. He earned an MS degree in meteorology from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and served in Fairfield, IA at Parsons College where he commanded a U.S. Air Force ROTC detachment. Upon retirement from USAF in 1977, he and his family returned to Fairfield where they have resided ever since. He was active for many years in the Lions Club, TENCO Foundation and served for 20 years as a member of the Board of Directors of Indian Hills Community College. He was also a member of the Air Weather Association. William is survived by his wife, Dorothy; five children, Pamela Fordyce of Traverse City, MI, Nancy (Gordon) O’Neill of Marietta, GA, Joyce (Don) Smith of The Villages, FL, Tim (Joyce) Hellkamp of Orlando, FL and William S. (Kathy) Hellkamp of Shakopee, MN; 11 grandchildren; two great grandchildren; and one brother Raymond Hellkamp of Scotia, NY. He is preceded in death by his parents, George and Lillian Hellkamp; and a sister, Jean Stoehr. On-line condolences can be made to the family at: http://www.behnerfh.com/fh/obituaries/obituary.cfm?o_id=4049310&fh_id=13182

Marilynn L. Kugler, wife of TSGT (Ret) Donald K. Kugler passed away on December 2, 2016. Marilynn was a dedicated weatherman’s wife, doing her support of her husband while his tours of duty. She traveled to Japan (1962-1965 as well as Maxwell AFB, Offutt AFB (twice), New York, Chanute, Ft. Knox, and HQ AWS at Scott AFB. She supported Don during his civilian aerospace duty at TRW, M-M, Hughes, Loc-Mart, Boeing and the FBI. She is survived by sons Scott, Mark; daughters Kerry and Donna, eight grandchildren and four great grandchildren. She will be missed.

Robert Frank Salm, 86, of Woodbridge VA, passed away peacefully in his home, surrounded by loved ones, on November 9, 2016. He is predeceased by his parents Joseph and Amelia; his sisters Theresa Piper, Rosie Smerling and Sister Boniface Salm; and his brothers Joseph, Jerome, Alfred and Peter. He is survived by his beloved wife of 65 years, Catherine; his daughters Rosemary Casey (Larry), Virginia Halcombe (Don) and Deborah Woolley (James); his sons Daniel (Kim) and Robert (Tammy); his grandchildren Shelly, Larry Jr, Don Jr, Dustin, Celeste, Jon, Melissa, Lauren, Tim, Turner, Caroline and Kyla; and his great-granddaughter Hadley Grace. Robert (Senior Master Sergeant) served for 20 years in the U.S. Air Force, working as a meteorologist. After his retirement from the military, he went on to work for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) as a branch chief in computer operations until his retirement. He was a member of Knights of Columbus and Holy Name Society; a volunteer at Holy Family Church, Hillcrest Heights, MD; a coach for Catholic Youth Organization; and served on the board for Royal Palm Townhouses in Ocean City, MD. A visitation will be held on Sunday, November 13, 2016 from 3-7pm at Mountcastle Turch Funeral Home, 4143 Dale Blvd, Dale City Va. A Funeral Mass will be held on Monday, November 14, 2016 at 11am at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, 12975 Purcell Rd, Manassas, VA. Arlington National Cemetery interment at a later date. The family asks that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to the Alzheimer’s Association (www.alz.org).

Madeline Harvey, (spouse of Col USAF (Ret.) Hubert E. Harvey), one of the Lord's sweetest and most gracious souls, peacefully returned home on August 10, 2016. A loving wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, she will always be remembered for her beautiful smile, infectious positivity, selfless giving, and unwavering faith. She was 90 years old. Madeline was born on February 21, 1926 in Detroit, Michigan, the daughter of Louis and Della Pusok. She graduated from Torrance High School in Torrance, California in June 1944. Shortly after graduation she took a fateful trip to Redondo Beach with two girlfriends where she met Hubert ("Ed") Edgar Harvey (who remembers she was the prettiest of the three); three months later they were married and remained so until her death 72 years later. Because Ed was in the Military, the family moved 33 times and Madeline was frequently tasked with raising their two children, Robert Edgar, and Susan Lee Harvey during Ed's long stints overseas. She was a loving mother who would do anything for her children. A perfect example of this occurred during a family trip to Germany at the height of the Cold War when her son asked for a piece of the Berlin Wall. Although highly illegal (and dangerous), Madeline hired a taxi to take her to chip a piece out of the wall at midnight to get her son the souvenir. Madeline was much more than just a homemaker. She received her Practical Nursing Certificate from the Chicago School of Nursing in 1954. Outside of her family life she actively gave her time to causes she believed in: she served as a Girl Scout Leader, participated in the Air Force Wives Club, volunteered with the Red Cross, taught Sunday school, participated in the CHAP (Children Have A Potential) Program, and volunteered her time at base chapels where the family was stationed. Austin, Texas became Madeline's home of 33 years following Ed's 1972 retirement from the Air Force (as HQ AWS/IG). Never one to idle, she soon earned an Associates' degree from Austin Community College and became a dedicated grandmother. Her grandchildren will testify in court that she made the best chocolate pie on earth. Deeply dedicated to spreading the word of God, Madeline served on the Texas Gideons State Cabinet for 14 years, including three years as State president and three years as Widows Coordinator. Believing that nobody was unworthy of the Lord's message, she frequently went to the Travis County jail to hand out Testaments to inmates. It is worth noting that Madeline kept a prayer book with a list of people to pray for every morning. The list included family, friends, friends-of-friends, people she had never met, and events she wished to happen. When her prayers were answered she would write "Thank You, Lord" next to whom or what she had prayed for. Madeline is survived by her husband, Hubert Harvey of San Antonio, Texas; her daughter, Susan Harvey, of San Antonio; her son and daughter-in-law, Robert Edgar Harvey and Stormy Harvey, of Victoria, Texas; her grandson, Joshua Harvey, of San Antonio, and her grandson and granddaughter-in-law Bradley and Laura Harvey of Miami, Florida. She was pre-deceased by her sister, Wilton "Totsy" Griffith. Madeline's life was the personification of love, grace, humility, and faith. Although she will be terribly missed by her family and friends, she will live on forever in the hearts of those who knew her. Her family would like to specially thank the staff of Liberty House and Hospice at Blue Skies of Texas, and her trusted friend Sheila Fontenot. She will be interred at Fort Sam National Cemetery on August 19. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Hospice of Blue Skies and Gideons International. You are invited to sign the guestbook at www.porterloring.com

Charles C. Bates, Ph.D., succumbed at age 97 to the ravages of old age on July 9, 2016 while residing at the La Posada retirement complex, Green Valley, AZ. Because his parents, Carl and Vera Bates, operated a hog/dairy farm near Rockton, IL, the youth spent much of each summer observing the south end of a team of horses going north or vice versa. Nonetheless, upon graduating as a Rector Scholar cum laude (geology) from DePauw University during 1939, he joined an Exxon subsidiary's seismograph crew and helped discover the Stuttgart oil field near Phillipsburg, KS. However, early 1941 found him to be a $21-per-month "buck private" computer in the "Old Army's" 2nd Field Artillery Observation Battalion's Sound Platoon at Fort Sill, OK. Following the Japanese attack against Pearl Harbor, it was upward and onward for Corporal Bates. After being commissioned as an Army Air Corps weather officer at the University of Chicago during May 1943, a year later found him being introduced to King George V and Queen Mary of the United Kingdom while on detached duty with the British Admiralty's Meteorological Forecast Center located two floors underground within London's Citadel. Then within the month he became the Center's duty surf forecaster for the night of the invasion of Normandy, i.e, June 5-6, 1944. For this feat, the Ninth Air Force awarded the Bronze Star Medal to the now Captain Bates for "meritorious serviceagainst the enemy during June 1944." However, the global adventure continued. Within six months he was posted to the meteorological staff of the Commander-in-Chief, East Indies Fleet, in Colombo, Ceylon. But the war was moving north. Consequently, during June 1945, he led the first convoy of the 10th Weather Squadron over the famed Ledo-Burma Road between Chabua, India and Kunming, China. Once hostilities were over, Bates continued for the next third of a century in both a military and a civilian capacity with the Armed Forces. As a uniformed officer he reached the rank of lieutenant colonel in the Air Force Reserve. In a civilian role, he held such key assignments as Chief, Vela Uniform Program, Advanced Research Projects Agency, Department of Defense (1960-64); Technical Director, U.S. Naval Oceanographic Office (1964-68), and Science Advisor to the Commandant, U. S. Coast Guard (1968-79). While doing so, he instigated the U.S. Navy's program for observing and forecasting ice conditions across the American Arctic, thereby meriting having an island in the Antarctic Peninsula named after him. In comparable fashion, Secretary of State Dean Rusk on Nov. 12, 1963 also designated him as U.S. Antarctic Observer #001 under terms of the Antarctic Treaty's Article VII. Throughout Bates' professional career, he was ably supported by a life long soulmate, Pauline Barta, who passed away five months earlier in January 2016. He had wooed her while she was a perky kindergarten teacher in remote Holdrege, Nebraska and he a lowly "attached helper" on a transient seismic crew. Nonetheless, as of July 1942, they entered into 73 years of blissful marriage. Once WWII was over, the couple created and reared three beloved daughters Nancy Ann, Priscilla Jane, and Sally Jean. Upon completing college, each girl married and went her own way, Nancy to Portland, OR, Priscilla to Austin, TX, and Sally to Tucson, AZ. During 1979 their parents also left the environs of Washington, D.C. to enjoy the desert climate of Green Valley, AZ. Once there, Charles co-authored several chronicles including "Geophysics in the Affairs of Man" (Pergamon Press, 1982), "America's Weather Warriors, 1814-1985" (Texas A&M Press, 1986), "Geophysics in the Affairs of Mankind" (Society of Exploration Geophysicists, 2001), and "Hydro to NavOceano: 175 Years of Ocean Survey and Prediction by the U.S. Navy" (Cornfield Press, 2006). Survivors of Dr. Bates include his three daughters, grandsons Alexander C. Robinson of New York City and Brian B. Yanity of Fullerton ,CA and great-granddaughters, Monica P. Geniveve and Fiona Robinson of New York City. Five younger siblings also survive, namely, sisters Norma (Bates) Bloom, Lois (Bates) Peterson, and Rose (Bates) Lovejoy, plus brothers John and Roger Bates, all of Rockton, IL. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Pauline, and his grandson, David Yanity. As for the cremains, they will be interred with those of wife Pauline's in the Phillips Cemetery adjoining the Bates Sesquicentennial Farm on which he was reared in Illinois.

Brigadier General Tedd Lee Bishop USAF retired, passed away peacefully Sunday June 12th, 2016 in Greenville, SC at the age of 90 to join his beloved wife of 60 years, Vera Pearson Bishop (her obituary below). Gen. Bishop was born in Asheville, NC in 1926 to Herman and Helen Shelton Bishop. At the age of 13, he began his lifelong love of flying. He would carry gas and wash airplane windshields in order to earn money to take flying lessons. He soon soloed his first plane, a 40 h.p. Cub. In March 1944 Tedd entered military service under the aviation cadet program; however, the cadet program closed and he served as a B-24 aircraft flight engineer until discharged in Oct. 1945. After leaving the Army Air Corp, his first job was an aero-mechanic for Delta. He then was a fireman on the railroad and went to Asheville-Biltmore College in 1946 and Ohio Univ. in 1947. He reentered the aviation cadet program in the newly formed U. S. Air Force in Oct. 1947, and as an outstanding cadet, graduated as regular commissioned officer. He next served at Stewart AFB, TN and later at Donaldson AFB, SC where he flew C-82s, C-47s and gliders. At Tyndall AFB, FL he completed Air Tactical School in 1950. It was in Asheville, NC where Tedd met the love of his life, Vera. They were married Nov 4, 1951 at Donaldson AFB. In June 1952, he was assigned to the 3rd Bombardment Wing in Korea where he flew 50 night intruder combat missions in the B-26. Returning to Donaldson AFB where he served with the 63rd Troop Carrier Wing as operations officer and flew C-119s and C-124s, he participated in Lebanon Crisis, Suez Crisis, Distant Early Warning Line construction, Operation Deep Freeze, Congo Crisis, and other major operations. He was the major planner and flew in the joint Army-Air Force "Operation Arctic Night" which was one of the largest troop drops north of the Arctic Circle. In addition he is credited with saving four C-124 transport aircraft during Antarctic flight operations. He then served at Maxwell AFB, AL, Keesler AFB, MS, Hurlburt Field, FL, earned his bachelor's degree from Univ. of Omaha, and then assigned to McGuire AFB, NJ. In 1967 he was assigned to 56th Weather Reconnaissance Squadron at Yokota AFB, Japan. He was next stationed to Scott AFB, IL as deputy chief of staff for Air Operations and served as permanent chairman of the Interagency Joint Sampler Working Group and as permanent committeeman with the Interdepartmental Hurricane and Typhoon Conference. In 1971, he was transferred to McClellan AFB, CA as Commander of the 9th Weather Reconnaissance Wing. Gen. Bishop commanded the 443rd Military Airlift Wing in Altus AFB, OK. While at Altus, he was made an honorary member of the Kiowa Tribe. He served his final command as Wing Commander of 437th Military Airlift Wing, Charleston AFB, SC. Gen. Bishop logged more than 20,000 military and civilian accident-free flying hours and flew more than 50 different aircraft. He also has the distinction of being one of the few people to have flown operationally over both the North and South Poles. His military decorations and awards include the Legion of Merit with oak leaf cluster, Distinguished Flying Cross, Meritorious Service Medal, Air Medal with four oak leaf clusters, Air Force Commendation Medal with two oak leaf clusters, the Air Force Outstanding Unit Award Ribbon with six oak leaf clusters, and the Order of the Sword by the Military Airlift Command noncommissioned officers for recognition of leadership. In 1978 he was awarded South Carolina's highest honor, the Order of the Palmetto by Gov. Edwards. After retirement, Gen Bishop served as Vice President of Trident Tech, as well as an expert aviation insurance consultant. Gen. Bishop, known affectionately as D.O.D. (Dear Old Dad), is survived by his four daughters, Lynn Coy, Leigh Bishop, Allyn Hoak, and Erin Taylor; sons-in-law, Col. Gary Coy USAF/Ret , Rob Hoak, and Dr. Bill Taylor; and his seven beloved grandchildren, Sara Coy, Lara Coy White, Pearson Hoak, Robby Hoak, Ellis Taylor, Franklin Taylor, and Richmond Taylor, and great- granddaughter, Ellen Gray Hoak. A memorial will be held Saturday, June 18th at 11:00 AM at The Church of the Transfiguration, Saluda, NC. He will be laid to rest in Arlington National Cemetery at a later date. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the charity of your choice in his honor. Guest book at: http://www.legacy.com/guestbooks/citizen-times/tedd-lee-bishop-condolences/180340398?cid=full

Grace Elisabeth Wilhelm, age 52, died early Friday, June 3, 2016 at her home in Greenville. She was born June 6, 1963 to wonderful Christian parents, Rev. Alvin and Gloria (Burlew) Heumann. Grace grew up in Detroit until 1975, when the family moved to Hollywood, FL and her father took a call to pastor St. Mark's Lutheran Church. After graduating from high school in Florida and nursing school in St. Louis, she returned to South Florida, where she met and married Jeffrey Wilhelm on April 3, 1985. Grace and Rev. Wilhelm, retired United States Air Force Lieutenant Colonel and pastor of Mount Calvary Lutheran Church, were blessed with three beautiful children who were her pride and joy. When Grace wasn't busy with her family, she was very active at church, teaching Sunday School, playing the piano, and serving as a member of the choir and the handbell choir. She worked as a nurse for 30 years in the Neonatal Intensive Care and Obstetrics and Gynecology departments, and enjoyed caring for others. Grace is survived by her loving husband of 31 years, Rev. Jeffrey Wilhelm; children, Sarah Wilhelm, Mary (Brandon) Cory, and Matthew Wilhelm; mother, Gloria Heumann; brothers, David (Leslie) Heumann and Daniel (Janelle) Heumann; mother-in-law, Marlene Wilhelm; and many brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. She was preceded in death by her father, Rev. Al Heumann and father-in-law, Ernest Wilhelm. Grace's family would like to especially thank Dr. Brett Brinker and staff for providing excellent personal care. Funeral services in Michigan will be held at 11:00 am Tuesday, June 7, 2016 at Mount Calvary Lutheran Church (908 West Oak Street, Greenville, MI 48838), with Rev. Mark Pflug and Rev. Donald Vietengruber officiating. Visitation will be Monday from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm at Hurst Funeral Home. Funeral services in Florida will be held at 11:00 am Thursday, June 9, 2016 at St. Luke's Lutheran Church (2021 West State Road 426, Oviedo, FL 32765), with interment to follow in Cape Canaveral National Cemetery in Mims, FL. Memorial contributions may be given to the International Myeloma Foundation, Gilda's Club, or Mount Calvary Lutheran Church.

Herschel H. Slater, Lt Col USAF (Ret.), November 7, 1917 - May 26, 2016, a weather officer for the US Air Force, a meteorologist and researcher for the EPA, a consultant, teacher, beloved father, husband and friend to many, passed away at Carol Woods Retirement Community, Chapel Hill, NC May 26, 2016. Hersch's work helped establish air quality standards for the U.S., as well as in Europe and Australia. Strongly civic minded, he served on the board of Chapel Hill Parks and Recreation, and participated in many local and statewide political campaigns. For years he wrote the popular "The Weather Down Here" column for the Chapel Hill News. He was a charter member of the Air Weather Association. He was also a member of the Chapel of the Cross and served on the vestry for years. He is survived by his four daughters: Leslie Reardon (Dave); Ellen Dement; Nancy Powell (Gary); Lynn Miller (Greg); seven grandchildren and twelve great-grandchildren. His wife of 69 years, Gladys, passed away in 2012. A memorial service will be held on Friday, June 24th at 11:00 AM at Carol Woods Assembly Hall, followed by a reception. Donations may be made to The Chapel of the Cross Building Fund, 304 E. Franklin St, Chapel Hill, NC 27514.

Francis (Franz) Lee House of Hammett passed away on Tuesday, May 17, 2016, after a brave battle with lymphoma and Alzheimer's disease. A memorial service will be held in Holdenville, Okla., on or about June 5, 2016, managed by the Hudson-Phillips Funeral Home in Holdenville Okla. Inurnment will be in Yeager Cemetery with full military honors. Cremation was under the direction of Rost Funeral Home, McMurtrey Chapel. Franz was born in Yeager, Okla., to Fred and Ada Inez House on Oct. 6, 1939. He attended Yeager High School, class of 1957, and then attended East Central State University in Ada, Okla,, completing his Bachelors in Math in 1961. (Photo) Upon graduation, Franz joined the Air Force, being commissioned through Officer Training School in December 1961 and then entered the year-long AFIT Basic Meteorology program. In 1963, he became a weather officer at the Army Chemical Corps Proving Grounds, Dugway, Utah. In August 1965, Franz went overseas as a weather officer at Binh Thuy Air Base, Vietnam, in support of military operations in the Mekong Delta area and IV Corps Direct Air Support Center. Midway through his tour, he was selected to provide direct weather support to the Commanding General, 7th Air Force and his staff. Upon completion of his tour of duty in Vietnam, Franz was stationed at Headquarters Air Weather Service as a staff officer. In 1970, seeking more excitement, he trained to become an Aerial Reconnaissance Weather Officer, and was stationed at Ramey Air Force Base, Puerto Rico, where he made aerial observations from a WC-130B airplane through hurricanes and tropical storms. In 1973, he was stationed at Keesler Air Force Base, Miss., with the 53rd Weather Recon Squadron where he taught and served as the Squadron Executive Officer. In 1975, he was assigned as a Weather Service Inspector for the MAC Office of Inspector General, stationed at Scott Air Force Base, Ill. In 1978, he was promoted to Lieutenant Colonel and was selected to be the Executive Officer to the two-star MAC Inspector General. Franz was promoted to Colonel in 1982, and in January 1983, he became the Comptroller for the 375th Aeromedical Airlift Wing, Scott Air Force Base, Ill. After 26 years of distinguished service, Franz retired in September 1987. He was awarded the Senior Officer Aircrew Member Badge, the Meritorious Service Medal, the Air Medal and the Air Force Commendation Medal. After retiring from the Air Force, Franz provided loving support and encouragement to his wife, Tamzy, as she moved through various Air Force assignments, completing her time in service of almost 27 years as the 366th SG/CC, 366th AEW, Mountain Home Air Force Base, Idaho, in 2001. Franz was a brilliant, independent man with many talents. He loved to travel, to build things, to solve problems, to be outdoors, and to be at peace along the Snake River or back home, along Yeager Creek in Oklahoma. He was a thrifty, hard-working man with high expectations for himself and the people around him. He loved his family and his pets and enjoyed the songs of Johnny Cash, Willie Nelson and Meryl Haggard. He loved the movies of John Wayne and to write poetry about family, life, and his Oklahoma upbringing. Franz wrote, "I'm an ordinary man, Who has worked and known strife. The calluses on my hands; Have not dulled my lust for life. I love the flowers in spring; and the crispness of the fall. Whatever this world may bring; There is beauty in it all." He maintained this outlook, with dignity and honor, to the end. Franz is survived by his wife, Tamzy of 36 years, and his three children, Jeffery of Dallas, Texas; Jeremy of St. Louis, Mo.; and Andrea House of New York, N.Y. He is also survived by two brothers, Charles of Lees' Summit, Mo., and Kenneth of Norman, Okla., and two grandchildren and one great grandchild. He was preceded in death by his parents, his brothers Bennie, Douglas and Joel, and by his first wife of 17 years, Judy.

Paul E. Quast, Jr, 84, of Millstadt, IL, born in Bay City, MI on October 10, 1931, died on May 16, 2016 in Millstadt, IL. Paul has displayed an uncommon courage throughout his life, earning a deep respect from those who have known and loved him. Paul joined the new and burgeoning United States Air Force on December 12, 1952. Dressed in the uniform of the US Army Air Corps, Paul graduated from basic training; he then proceeded to Chanute AFB, IL where he would become a meteorologist, his life's work. Paul married the love of his life, Beverly Eager on November 8, 1952 in Bay City, Michigan. Paul retired from Scott Air Force Base, Belleville, IL as a Master Sergeant on November 30, 1969; and continued as a meteorologist on Scott Air Force Base until his retirement from civil service. His military service awards and decorations include the Air Force Good Conduct Medal, Air Force Longevity Service Award, and National Defense Service Medal. Paul was an active member of the Loyal Order of Moose, and Zion Lutheran Church in Belleville, IL.He was preceded in death by his wife, Beverly Quast; parents, Paul E. and Helen, nee Goddard, Quast; siblings, Mary Quast, Richard Quast, Jeanie Quast; daughter, Deanna Mueller; granddaughter, Rebecca Russell. Paul was an honorable and beloved soul who will be missed by many. Paul is survived by his children, David Quast and Julie Russell; his children in-law, Anabell Ramirez, and Jack Russell; his grandchildren, Jessie Mueller, Steven and Christopher Quast, Brian, Brent, and Brittany Russell; his great-grandchildren, Kansas and Alexander Quast, Kamden Russell; sisters in law, Dawn Williams, Suzie Lent, Joyce Eager; brothers in-law, Richard "Dick" Williams, Samuel "Bud" Anderson, Danny Eager, Mike Peterson; many nieces, nephews, and friends. Online condolences may be expressed to the family at www.valhallagardensandfuneralhome.com Visitation will be held on Sunday, May 22, 2016 from 2pm – 6pm at Valhalla Gaerdner Holten Funeral Home, 3412 Frank Scott Pkwy W, Belleville, IL. Funeral Service will be held on Monday, May 23, 2016, 12pm, at Zion Lutheran Church, 1810 McClintock Ave, Belleville, IL 62221, with Pastor Brian Downs officiating.Interment will be held in Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery, St Louis, MO. Paul was a member of the AWA. His wife, Beverly just passed two months ago 3/6/16 http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/belleville/obituary.aspx?page=lifestory&pid=177997820

Cecilia Walters, born May 15, 1950 in Baton Rouge, LA, passed away May 3rd, 2016 at Memorial Hospital East in O’Fallon, IL, after a lengthy illness. She was surrounded by family and friends. Cecilia was a retired Manager at the GAP and a devoted mother and grandmother who loved spending time with family and supporting her children’s activities. She also served her country as a dedicated military wife supporting her husband’s career and the men and women of the United States Air Force. She was preceded in death by her parents, Dr. Thomas and Willie Belle (nee Austin) Shockley of Germantown, TN. She is survived by her husband of 45 years, Col Thomas Walters (USAF, Ret); a daughter, Samantha Dianne Palmieri (Joseph) of Alexandria, VA; a son, Blake Austin Walters (Erin) of Longmont, CO; a deeply loved grandson, Benjamin Thomas Palmieri of Alexandria, VA; and a sister Dianne Shockley Mall (Myron) of Memphis, TN. The family would like to express its thanks and appreciation to her physicians and nursing staff at Washington University, the Center for Advanced Medicine, Memorial Hospital East, and the BJC Healthcare family for the care and compassion given to Cecilia and her family during the past 38 months. Memorials can be made to the St Louis Ovarian Cancer Awareness (SLOCA) at https://www.sloca.org/support-us/donate/ or to a charity of your choice. Condolences may be extended to the family online at Schildknechtfh.com.

William Leon "Colonel" Dotson passed away peacefully Wednesday evening, April 20, 2016, at Guardian Angel Homes in Richland, WA. He was born August 10, 1921, in Murphy, OK, and later attended The Colorado School of Mines, where he earned a degree in Physics. He went into Army Air Corps pilot training in Texas and flew for them and later for the U.S. Air Force for over 25 years. He served in WWII and Korea, where he earned several citations, including the DFC, Bronze Star, and Purple Heart. Flying was his passion, and he was held in high regard by those who flew with him. The Air Force later sent him to UCLA to earn an advanced degree in Meteorology. After retiring from the service, he moved to the Tri-Cities and lived here for the past 49 years, working as a research scientist for several Hanford contractors. He considered this area his home, and both his wife, Mary Ann, and oldest son, William Leon III, are buried here. His youngest son, Claude, survives him. A long-time member of All Saints Episcopal Church, he played a dedicated and active role in their mission. Well-known for his Amiable disposition and love of people, he will be missed by many. Special thanks to the staffs at Guardian Angel and The Chaplaincy for the care and understanding. Express your thoughts and memories on our online Guestbook at www.einansatsunset.com

William Edward (Ed) Fox of Wilmington, NC died peacefully in the Lord on April 20, 2016. Born August 12, 1918 near Cornersville, TN, Mr. Fox was the son of William Edward Fox Sr. and Hallie Clark Fox of Lewisburg, TN. After graduating in Civil Engineering from the University of Tennessee in May, 1942, he joined the Army Air Corps in July, 1942 as an Aviation Cadet in Meteorology. He received his military training and instruction in Meteorology at the University of Chicago, Illinois. In May, 1943, he was commissioned a 2nd Lt. Weather Officer in the 21st Weather Squadron and assigned to William Northern Airfield in Tullahoma, a training facility for fighter pilots. In Feb, 1944, he was promoted to 1st Lt. and later traveled to England and was assigned to the 53rd Troop Carrier Wing at Greenham Commons Airfield near Newbury, England. Invasion of Europe (June 6, 1944) occurred during this time. Mr. Fox was under the command of General Eisenhower when the paratroopers were launched on the night of June 5th and his mission was to provide weather forecasts for the troop carrier pilots who were dropping paratroopers and supplies to advance troops. During Jan – June, 1945, the 53rd Troop Carrier Wing moved to Melun, France near Paris, and Mr. Fox was instrumental in forecasting weather conditions for the aerial drops of supplies for General Patton's division. Mr. Fox was promoted to Captain in May, 1945. Shortly afterwards, he was assigned to Weather Offices in Frankfurt, Bremerhaven and Stuttgart in Germany and continued to provide weather forecasts for flights, military activities and the general public. He returned to the U.S. and was honorably discharged in March, 1946 and began working in Wilmington, NC as a Civil Engineer. In 1947, Mr. Fox married Mary Daniel Carr of Wilmington, NC. During Mr. Fox's career as a Hydrologist, and Meteorologist, they lived in Fort Worth, TX, Washington, DC, Augusta, GA, and Atlanta, GA. His work eventually led him to serve as the Director of the Southeastern River Forecast Center for NOAA in Atlanta. After his retirement in 1980, Mr. Fox became a consultant to the United Nations working on flood control overseas, including in China and Pakistan. Mr. and Mrs. Fox moved to Wrightsville Beach in 1986 and later to nearby Wilmington, NC. Mr. Fox was a member of Pine Valley Church of Christ as well as the American Society of Civil Engineers, American Geological Society, National Society of Professional Engineers, the American Meteorological Society and a charter member of the Air Weather Association. Mr. Fox was predeceased by his parents and his sisters, Doris Fox Cantrell of Cornersville, TN and Beverly Fox Cathey of Lewisburg, TN, and his beloved wife of 59 years, Mary Daniel Carr Fox. He is survived by his two sons: Daniel Carr Fox and wife, Tammy, of Raleigh, NC, and Dr. William E. Fox III of Raleigh, NC; and three grandchildren, Lindsay Caroline Fox, William Carr Fox, and Samuel Becker Fox. Mr. Fox was dedicated to his family, his loving wife, his church, and to helping others, whether it was by providing tax advice to seniors or his generous donations to many charities. He enjoyed nothing more than sharing stories and laughter with his two sons. He was an inspiration to all who knew him, and he will be greatly missed by his family and friends. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, April 30 at Pine Valley Church of Christ at 2:00 pm, 3601 S. College Rd, Wilmington, NC 28412. Burial at the Sunset Cemetery in Littleton, NC will be private. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that memorials may be sent to Pine Valley Church of Christ, Davis Health Care Center, or a charity of your choice . The family wishes to thank the staff of Davis Health Care Center and his dear friend Mary McLamb for their kind and loving care. As Mr. Fox said in his retirement speech, "Old hydrologists never die, they just float away." Condolences may be sent to the family at http://www.legacy.com/guestbooks/newsobserver/william-edward-fox-condolences/179718939

Nadine Lindquist Flinders, a 17-year resident of the Air Force Village system, and a resident of Freedom House, San Antonio, TX, peacefully crossed over into eternity on March 30, 2016. She was 98 years old. Nadine was Oscar and Lydia Lindquist's only child, born in Estherville, Iowa and raised in Spirit Lake. She first met her future husband, Dale Flinders, at a high school state music contest. They'd been born and raised within two weeks and sixty miles of each other. They met, yet again, as college students at Morningside College in Sioux City. Dale recognized Nadine when he saw her from a passing street car. They both graduated from Morningside College in 1939; Nadine with a Bachelor of Music Degree with an emphasis on voice. Nadine shared one date with Dale, and then they were separated by fate: Dale to teach high school science in Burma, and Nadine to the Eastman School of Music in Rochester NY, where she received her Masters of Music degree in 1941, majoring in Performance and Literature with an emphasis on voice. In 1943 they were married and she and Dale moved to Boston. When Dale was reassigned to Burma in '44 with the British Infantry, Nadine continued her music teaching at what is now the University of North Texas. It would be three years before they were reunited after the war, in Japan, where Dale was assigned. As the wife of a career Air Force officer, Nadine followed her husband to Japan, Washington DC, Morocco, Spain, Vandenberg AFB, Sunnyvale CA, Washington DC (again), Massachusetts, and Scott AFB, Ill. At each new home, she became active in the officers' wives club, the local scouting organization, and in organizing and directing chapel choirs. She provided voice instruction and piano accompaniment for professional vocalists, and encouraged her own children to achieve musical proficiency on their chosen instruments. In California she enjoyed her gardens, and in Massachusetts, she enjoyed combing local shops for antiques. She was a dedicated mother to her sons. Well into her '90s, she regularly attended music performances and, as recently as three weeks before her passing, she attended her regular church service and joined in the singing, sometimes forgetting the lyrics but never losing her beautiful voice. Music was who she was, and it brought her the greatest joy. It is her grand piano that's in the Freedom House great room, donated when her husband was a resident. After retirement from the Air Force, she and Dale traveled the world – taking the Trans-Siberia Railroad from China to Moscow; up the Volga River to St. Petersburg; two trips down the Yangtse River in China; several trips to India, Burma and Thailand; to Germany, Denmark, England, Ireland, Isle of Man, Peru, Tibet, Hawaii, and many visits to Alaska. Nadine was a lifetime member of the Mu Phi Epsilon Professional Music Fraternity and, in 2012, was honored for her 75 year membership in the organization, having joined the Phi Zeta Chapter in Morningside College in 1937. Nadine is survived by her son, Val and his partner, Patti, of Anchorage, Alaska; and her son Bradley and his wife, Nancy, of Taos, New Mexico. She is survived by five grandchildren whom she adored: Kacie Sandoval and Kyle Flinders, both of San Antonio TX; Monica Flinders of Maui, Hawaii; Shanna Flaten of Morro Bay CA; Alexandria Flinders of Kodiak, Alaska; and nine great-grandchildren, who brought her the greatest joy simply by being happy little ones. Mrs. Flinders was preceded in death by Col. Dale Flinders, her beloved husband of 65 years. We rejoice in the knowledge that they are again together, happily exploring the celestial heavens and the "forever" they promised to each other. Her family wishes to thank the compassionate people of Liberty House, the Care Center, Freedom House, the Mission, and Hospice for the kindness and dedication with which they cared for Mrs. Flinders as her health declined and her care needs became increasingly complicated. It is requested that, in lieu of flowers, you celebrate Nadine's life by sharing some ice cream with your loved ones. It's a simple pleasure, one Nadine enjoyed even into the last chapter of her long and happy life. May God speed you on your way, Nadine Linquist Flinders. Until we all meet again. Services for Mrs. Nadine L. Flinders were held Wednesday, April 6th 2016 9:30 am Graveside service and internment at Fort Sam Houston Cemetery 1:00 pm Memorial service at High Flight Chapel, Blue Skies Over Texas Reception and Ice Cream Social immediately following http://porterloring.tributes.com/obituary/show/Nadine-Lindquist-Flinders-103447649

Major Kevin E. Clegg, USAF, 43, of Tucson, Arizona, passed away on March 6, 2016, at his home in Arizona. Kevin came into this world on June 12, 1972. He was born and raised in Ravenswood, W.Va. and he spent his early years growing up in the Faith Bible Church in Ravenswood. At the age of 24, Kevin enlisted in the U.S. Air Force as a medic. In 1996, he jumped at the opportunity to attend school at the University of Arizona to become an officer and a meteorologist. He would later earn his MBA from the same university. Despite his deep love for his profession and serving his country, most recently as an intelligence officer, Kevin's primary focus was enjoying his time on earth with family and friends. He looked at each day as an opportunity to improve, to explore, loving a life jam-packed with adventure. He seldom stopped to catch his breath prior to launching full force into his next endeavor. Some of his passions included mountain biking, cycling, racing motorcycles, kite boarding and surfing in Hawaii, where he was stationed for several years, kayaking, trail running, traveling, skiing, hiking, camping, climbing, yoga, photography, playing guitar and dabbling in real estate. He touched thousands of lives through his pursuits, simply by being himself and sharing that overabundance of energy with others at every opportunity. Kevin's travels and influence stretched around the globe, but he also valued important and special relationships with family and friends. He was incredibly proud of his brother, Dustin Clegg and deeply loved his mother, Trudy, and his father, David, more than words can describe. He will be missed but never forgotten. He is survived by his parents, Dave and Trudy Adams Clegg; brother, Dustin Clegg; nephew, Darin Clegg; special aunts, cousins and friends. He was preceded in death by his grandparents. The funeral service will be held on Monday, March 14, 2016, at 1 p.m. at Roush Funeral Home, Ravenswood, W.Va., with Pastor Steve Raines officiating. Burial will follow in Ravenswood Cemetery. Friends may visit the family at the funeral home on Monday, March 14, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., time of service. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to VFW Post 5501, Hunting for Heroes, 329A Parkersburg Road, Ripley, WV 25271. Condolences may be expressed to the family at roush94@yahoo.com, www.facebook.com/roushfuneralhome or on our website at www.roushfuneralhome.net

General USAF (Ret.) Duane H. Cassidy was more than a US Air Force pilot. He was a four-star general, a husband of 61 years, a leader of men and women, a father, a friend and an adventurer. Although a short battle with cancer would claim his life on February 8, 2016, he was an extraordinary 82-year-old, but then he was extraordinary at every age. Cassidy lived life fully and positivity was his trademark. Cassidy led by example. He was a decorated veteran and wore every set of wings possible. His life was one of manufactured good fortune and determination. He made the most of every opportunity, one of which led him to the USAF by chance with a group of friends soon after high school. From there he would fly all over the world, landing planes on all seven continents. Born in Coraopolis, Pennsylvania in 1933, Cassidy was the son of a first grade teacher and a banker. His mother used to say that she could never punish him because he entertained himself in the corner by pretending to fly planes, or drive cars or trains. He met his wife, Rosalie in high school, and they married in 1954. The couple's adventure together continued through 61 years of marriage and more than 32 moves. General Cassidy served his country for more than 35 years in the United States Air Force. Upon completion of aviation cadet training in 1954, he was commissioned as a second lieutenant and continued on to navigator training. His initial operational assignments in the Air Force were flying B-25s, SA-16s, and C-121s with the Air Weather Service, Air Rescue Service and Military Air Transport Service. Cassidy then entered pilot training in December 1958, after which he flew B-47 bombers for the Strategic Air Command and served with the 810th Strategic Aerospace Division, whose mission included B-52 bomber and Minuteman missile operations. In 1968, he was assigned to the Republic of Vietnam, serving first with 7th Air Force before being transferred to the Military Assistance Command Vietnam Directorate of Public Affairs as an air briefer to the Saigon press corps. His family would return home to Coraopolis, PA during this time. In 1969, Cassidy began serving in various roles in Military Airlift Command (MAC), including executive officer to the deputy chief of staff for operations at MAC headquarters and later as executive aide and pilot for the MAC Commander. In 1972 he assumed command of the 8th Military Airlift Squadron at McChord Air Force Base, Washington. He entered Air War College in August 1974 and then returned to MAC headquarters as the assistant chief of staff. In 1976, Cassidy was assigned first as vice commander, then commander, of the 63rd Military Airlift Wing at Norton Air Force Base, California. He then returned to MAC headquarters, where he served as deputy chief of staff for operations. Cassidy commanded the 21st Air Force at McGuire Air Force Base, New Jersey from 1983-84, and then transferred to U.S. Air Force headquarters at the Pentagon in Washington, DC, where he served as deputy chief of staff for manpower and personnel. At the culmination of a distinguished military career, General Cassidy served as the Commander in Chief of the Air Force's Military Airlift Command from 1985-89 and stood up and served as the first Commander in Chief of the United States Transportation Command from 1987-89. During his tenure, Gen. Cassidy was integral in the design and building of the aircraft that now serves as the backbone of the Air Mobility Command, the C-17. He was known as a statesman, a great communicator and a gentleman. A command pilot and senior navigator with more than 8,000 flying hours in air mobility and bomber aircraft, his military decorations and awards include the Distinguished Service Medal, Legion of Merit, Bronze Star Medal, Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Meritorious Service Medal with two oak leaf clusters and the Air Medal. He also wore the Parachutist Badge. Following his retirement from the USAF, Gen. Cassidy joined CSX Corporation in 1989 as vice president in the executive department in Richmond. From there Cassidy moved to CSX Transportation (CSXT), the company's rail unit, where he lead the sales and marketing organization from 1992. In 1996, Cassidy was assigned as CSX senior vice president and chairman of the CSX Commercial Board where he was responsible for the evaluation and development and implementation of integrated service initiatives for CSX's various transportation business units. Cassidy served as advisor, consultant and on the boards of numerous transportation and aircraft organizations following his retirement from the USAF. President George H.W. Bush appointed General Cassidy to the Base Realignment and Closure Commission and he co-chaired a similar commission for the Governor of the State of Florida. He was on the Board of Advisors of Hybrid Enterprises, until his death, working on a new hybrid airship being developed in conjunction with Lockheed Martin for the purposes of transporting cargo anywhere in the world. Cassidy's commitment to the USAF and CSX, and other business and transportation venues is surpassed only by his commitment to family. When General Cassidy was inducted into the Airlifters Hall of Fame in 2006, he said when asked the secret of his success, "Find a girl like Rosalie Cassidy and keep her by your side the rest of your life." General Cassidy is survived by his wife, Rosalie; daughters, Diane and Susan; sons, Michael and Patrick; and their families, including eight grandchildren, their spouses; and one great-granddaughter. He also leaves behind his sister, Dolores Sasway; in-laws, Ed and Beth Mosley, Loretta Hoffman, Virginia Greenberger; and many much-loved nieces and nephews. Countless friends and those he led through his decades of service mourn him as well. Funeral services will be held on a future date in Arlington National Cemetery, with details released when available. For more on the life and legacy of General Cassidy, please visit the A/TA (Airlift Tanker Association) Hall of Fame section of the Association's website at atalink.org. If you are interested in attending the funeral in Arlington National Cemetery, subscribe to the A/TA website that will announce the details of the service as they are finalized. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests a donation to either A/TA Scholarship Program or the Special Operations Warrior Foundation, specialops.org.

Edward S. Gill, June 29, 1921-Feb 3, 2016. Beloved father, compassionate teacher, lover of Nature, friend to man and beast... Edward S. Gill will be greatly missed by many. As valedictorian at his local high school in Keokuk, Iowa, he won a scholarship to Cornell College in Mt. Vernon, where he majored in Chemistry. In 1942, he enlisted in the US Army Air Corps for training in Meteorology, and served in various administrative posts during World War II with the 15th and 20th Weather Squadrons. While stationed at the Rockhampton, Queensland, Australia airfield, he met and married Ruth Ash in 1945. He island-hopped from Horn Island to Jacky Jacky to Biak Island to Manila and finally to the Administrative Headquarters in Tokyo. After an Honorable Discharge in 1946, Ed continued in the Air Force Reserves as a Major and instructor. His career in Clinical Chemistry began in Clifton Springs, N.Y. managing the lab at the local hospital and clinic. In the 14 years he lived in this small village with his family, he was a vital part of the community. Although he served his church in leadership roles in each town where he lived, his greatest volunteer service was to St. Johns Episcopal Church in Clifton, where he acted as Treasurer, Junior and Senior Warden, Sunday School Superintendent, chorister, and where he cranked out the weekly newsletter on the old mimeograph. He was instrumental in building from scratch the first Parish Hall there. Ed also served on the YMCA Board, was copresident with his wife of the PTA, was elected President of the Rotary Club, stayed active as counselor with the Boy Scouts, and enjoyed baseball and hot dogs with the home team. In 1962 Ed moved to East Aurora, NY to head the Chemistry Dept. at the then 1,000 bed VA Hospital in Buffalo. There he introduced a Med Tech Program for students at the University of Buffalo, who often continued on to work with him in the VA Lab. He received the coveted Somogyi-Sendroy Award for "outstanding contributions" to the clinical chemistry profession. In 1986 he retired to Hartwell, Georgia, where the State of Georgia awarded him a certificate of recognition for his work on the environment. He was very active in maintaining Hart Park and the shoreline of Hartwell Lake and owing to his passion for Nature, for years picked up litter along a 2-mile stretch of highway in that area. He was an active member of St. Andrews Episcopal Church in Hartwell. Above all, Edward "Poppo" Gill was a family man. As a boy he was the one to decorate the family Christmas tree. He was our family doctor, too; "Doctor Daddy" always knew what to do in an emergency; he was fix-it man, the pancake cook, the veggie gardener extraordinaire, and the patient father who returned home each eve, no matter how weary, to bring a sense of calm to a raucous household. Pop always walked his talk, and will be forever admired for the legacy he recorded in his 50th Cornell Class Reunion program, which read: "I hope I will be remembered as a good husband and father, whose choices and conduct in life have been based on truth, fairness, and service to others, with high ethical standards, good will and relationships; as friend of the earth, its people and the environment." Dear Pop, you've exceeded the mark in our eyes! Ed is survived by his son David (Barbara J.) of Clifton Springs, his daughter Kit(Jack) of Boulder, Colorado, his daughter Barbara(Mark) Parsons of Bradenton, Florida, 6 grandchildren and 7 great grands. A memorial service will be held at Christ Church, 4030 Manatee Ave W in Bradenton on Feb.21, 2016 at 1 P.M. Contributions may be made to Christ Church, or a charity of choice . - See more at: http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/bradenton/obituary.aspx?n=edward-s-gill&pid=177699916#sthash.y4BAVblj.dpuf

Barbara Lee Brown Perry Gargiulo, 83, of Asheville, North Carolina, passed away on January 26, 2016 in the loving care of Mayflower Senior Care. Throughout her life, Barbara knew no strangers. She loved unconditionally, and lived to teach, encourage, and help anyone she met. Born in Hartford, Connecticut, Barbara studied journalism at the University of Missouri. She also attended Hillyer College/University of Hartford and Drew University. She spent many years living in Maryland, Virginia, and West Virginia. Most of her years since 1979 were spent residing in North Carolina. Barbara was a long-time instructor for Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College where she was awarded "Outstanding Continuing Education Faculty Member of the Year" in 2007. She was still teaching classes a few months before her death. Barbara was preceded in death by her husband Col. Alphonse Gargiulo Jr. She is survived by her sons Timothy Perry and wife Sharon, Chuck Perry, Chris Perry, Jim Gargiulo and wife Jill, and Mike Gargiulo; daughter Janet Petty and husband Tim; six grandchildren: Christilia Perry, James Levingston, Julie Brooks, Jessica Petty, Tony Gargiulo, Renee Gargiulo Pike, as well as great grandson Logan Gargiulo. She is also survived by her sister, Florence Snodgrass. Memorial donations may be made to the Asheville Humane Society, 14 Forever Friend Lane, Asheville, North Carolina, 28806, where Barbara was a volunteer. Published in the Asheville Citizen-Times on Feb. 21, 2016. http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/citizen-times/obituary.aspx?n=barbara-gargiulo&pid=177786679&eid=sp_shareobit

Percy M. Floyd, Jr., retired Air Force Lt. Colonel, died of natural causes on January 19, 2016 at Falcons Landing retirement community in Sterling, VA. He was 99 years old. Col. Floyd was born in 1916 in Jefferson City, Missouri, and grew up in Booneville, Missouri. In 1940 he received a Bachelor´s degree in Education from Central Missouri State University, and was valedictorian of his class. He voluntarily entered the Army Air Corps in January 1942, graduated from Officer Candidate School and was commissioned as a 2nd Lieutenant. During World War II he served in an aircraft maintenance squadron of the 12th Air Force in the Mediterranean Theater of Operations (North Africa, Sicily, Italy). After the war he continued his military career and received training in meteorology. In 1952 he received a Master's Degree from The Johns Hopkins University in micrometeorology. Col. Floyd served as a weather officer in many assignments including Alaska, with special emphasis in aeronautical meteorology. After retiring from the Air Force in 1968, Col. Floyd taught mathematics for 13 years at McLean High School in McLean, Virginia. Col. Floyd´s first wife, Frances Harris Floyd, died in 1994. He is survived by his wife Jean Sykes Floyd, brother Harold D. Floyd of Great Falls MT, three children; Maxwell D. Floyd (Karen) of Friendswood, TX, Stephen M. Floyd (Mary Jo) of Fairfax Station, VA, Sharon F. Hix (Bill), of Alexandria, VA, two stepsons, three grandchildren, and five step-grandchildren. Col. Floyd was a member of the Unitarian Universalist Church of Reston, VA and a life member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars, the Military Officers Association of America, and the Virginia Retired Teachers Association. His interests included; reading, travel, ballroom dancing, physical fitness training, and dining in ethnic restaurants. Memorial Service to be held February 1, 2016 at Falcons Landing retirement community, Sterling, VA. Interment at Arlington National Cemetery, date still to be determined.

Hartranft, Frank Lt Col. USAF (Ret.) Oct 20, 1935 - Jan 14, 2016 Of Bellevue, NE. Frank was a meteorologist with the United States Air Force from 1954 through 1981. He was employed and was an instructor at UNO from 1984 – 2012. Survived by wife Shirley; daughter Jean Holtmann (Steve); son Dave Hartranft (Nancy); grandchildren, Jonathan, Grace, Justin, Joy and Faith; sister Ann Heminger; brother Charles Hartranft. Masonic Service starting at 1pm Saturday, January 23, 2016 with MEMORIAL SERVICE following at First Presbyterian Church, 1220 Bellevue Blvd. South, Bellevue, NE. Millitary Honors by Offutt Air Force Base Honor Guard. Memorials to First Presbyterian Church. BELLEVUE MEMORIAL CHAPEL Heafey-Hoffmann-Dworak-Cutler 2202 Hancock St, Bellevue 402-291-5000 www.bellevuefuneralchapel.com

We are saddened to report the passing of an AWA member Robert Felton Pipes 97. He was born December 24, 1918, in Frankston, Texas and passed from this life January 1, 2016, in Terrell, Texas of natural causes. He and his family moved to Dallas in the early 1920's where he attended Obidiah Knight Elementary, Crozier Tech High School and St. Joseph's High School, graduating from the latter in 1938. He entered the military in 1939. He served in the 112th Cavalry, the 8th Air Force of the U.S.Army Air Corps, the United States Air Force and the Air National Guard. His military career spanned nearly three decades. Twenty one years active duty and the remainder in the Air National Guard. He achieved the rank of Master Sergeant and served in many career fields including Air Weather Reconnaissance. After leaving the military he worked as a jet engine mechanic at Dallas Airmotive and Solar Turbines inc. In his retirement he served on the board of the Fort Sill Historical Association, authored a book about his experiences in WWII entitled, "The Playboy Crew 1943-1944 - The Men of B-24 Liberator 41-29399" and spent several summers in Arizona assisting the Apache Indian Reservation forest fire fighting team at Point of Pines. He is preceded in death by his wife, Betty P. Pipes, parents, John W. and Elizabeth Pipes and siblings, Cecil G. Pipes, Bernice E. Webb, Frank S. Pipes, John M. Pipes and Ruby M. Boothman. He is survived by his sister, Ann Early, his children, Robert Frank Pipes, Brian Alan Pipes and Melissa Lusera Spencer, 3 grandchildren, 1 great grandchild and numerous nieces and nephews. Robert Felton will be fondly remembered and sorely missed by his family and friends. In lieu of flowers, Robert requested that a donation be made to The Freedom Alliance or The Wounded Warrior Project.