Departures - 2018
We publish departures based on the year listed in the obituary. If no year is listed then we publish them when they are received.
Charles B. Wheelock passed away December 30, 2018. He was a resident of Tucson, Arizona since the summer of 2016, and grew up in Tucson in the 60’s. Chuck graduated from Catalina High School in 1963 and began study at the University of Arizona. He served in the 56th U. S. Air Force Weather Reconnaissance Squadron in Japan from 1967 to 1971. In 1977 he was awarded a Degree in Electrical Engineering from the University of Arizona and worked with the U of A School of Nursing in Biomedical engineering. Chuck began a new career as an aerospace engineer with NASA, the National Aeronautics and Space Administration in 1980, retiring after 36 years of service. His service at NASA was a life dream and he received many, MANY awards and accolades for his work. While at NASA he was the Manager, Robotics Technology Laboratories until retirement. He was very proud of his efforts on NASA’s Robonaut 2. Chuck was born in Adrian, Michigan to George and Helen Wheelock, and had three brothers, John (deceased), James and William (Mary). The family moved to Tucson, Arizona when Chuck was starting high school. He was an avid member of the Rocket Club and a spelunker in the caves around Tucson. In lieu of other memorials please consider donating to the Friends of League City Animal Shelter, one of Chuck’s favorite places. Please contact Monica Millican, President, Friends of League City Animal Shelter dba League City Pets Alive (LCPA), 501(c)(3) Non Profit (DLN#17053134003039), P. O. Box 2801 League City TX 77574. Monica’s contact information is (832) 536-3388 or monica@monicamillican.com
Kathleen Jane Kubiak (nee Vance), 72, of O'Fallon, IL., born February 12, 1946 in Belleville, IL., passed away Sunday, December 23, 2018 in Saint Louis, MO. Kathleen married Edward Thomas Kubiak and together they had two children. She is preceded by her parents Hubert Dale and Vivian (nee Davis) Vance and a brother, Clayton Vance. Those left to cherish her memory include her husband of more than 50 years, Edward Kubiak; sons Kevin Kubiak and Kory Kubiak; grandchildren, Amanda Kubiak and Craig Kubiak; and brother, Carl Vance. In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to American Cancer Society. Additional condolences may be offered online at ValhallaGardensandFuneralHome.com Per the family's wishes, funeral services will be private.
Harold Takashi Fukuda, Major USAF (Ret).86, of Honolulu, Hawaii, died in Makati City, Philippines on December 5, 2018. He was born in Honolulu. Inurnment: 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, January 3, 2019 at the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific, Punchbowl.
Douglas (Doug) Lee Jonas, Colonel USAFR (Ret.), long term Air Weather Association member, passed away peacefully on November 29, 2018 at Virginia Mason Hospital in Seattle after living a joyful life full of love, giving, laughter and adventure. Born on July 22, 1935 to Carl and Margaret Jonas, Doug grew up in Puyallup in a tight- knit Swedish and Welsh immigrant family that valued family, hard work and community. Doug attended Washington State University where he met the love of his life, Janette Witkowski (Jan), and became a life-long Cougar fan while obtaining a BS in Civil Engineering. After college, Doug served active duty for 4 years with the Air Force Air Weather Service, obtaining a Meteorology degree at St. Louis University and supporting Air Force pilots out of Eielson Air Force Base near Fairbanks, Alaska during the height of the Cold War. After completing his active tour in Alaska, Doug went on to serve an additional 26 years as a Reservist for the Air Weather Service, retiring as a Colonel in 1988. While in Alaska, Doug also obtained a Masters in Engineering Management from the University of Alaska, Fairbanks. Doug and Jan returned to the Seattle area in 1962, when Doug became an engineer for the City of Seattle. In the early 70’s he started an engineering consulting business, which he ran for nearly 3 decades, during which time he guided and managed a variety of public works initiatives in Washington State and across the country contributing to advances in transportation, road weather management and waste management practices. Doug and Jan ultimately settled on Bainbridge Island in 1966 to raise a family, becoming active community members and stewards of this beautiful island. For decades Doug was an Elder for the Rolling Bay Presbyterian Church, actively involved in nurturing growth of the congregation. In later years, Doug participated in the NW Indian Fisheries seining project, helping to monitor the health of the waters surrounding Bainbridge Island. Doug was a dedicated advocate for the Seattle area YMCA Youth Camps Orkila and Colman and their work to support at-risk youth by providing access to nature, life skills and leadership opportunities. He served on the Board of Directors for years, committing weeks of his time every year to help rebuild and maintain camp facilities often recruiting friends and family to help. Doug had a genuine awe of the world and was interested in everything. He held a particular love for the Pacific Northwest and Mount Rainier. He was a passionate backpacking, boating and skiing enthusiast, passing his love for the outdoors on to his kids and grandchildren, and was constantly planning the next great adventure with family and friends. No matter where he was, Doug enjoyed the humor of every situation, and loved to tell a good story. In retirement, Doug and Jan traveled extensively, visiting both the North and South Poles and nearly every continent in between, but their most frequent and favorite travel destination was Pullman, Washington in their beloved Palouse to root on the WSU Cougars at nearly every home football game and many basketball games. Doug is survived by his wife, Jan of 61 years, brother Ronald Jonas of Reno Nevada, daughter Andrea (Phil) Pickett, sons Ken (Gwen) Jonas and Carey Jonas, grandsons Alex and Tyler Pickett, extended family and many, many longtime friends who all miss him dearly. A Celebration of Doug’s Life is planned for January 12th, 2019 at 2 pm at the Rolling Bay Presbyterian Church. His extended family invites Doug’s many friends and colleagues to join them in honoring his life. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in to The Doug Jonas YMCA Camp Endowment (www.seattleymca.org/givecamp), or to the Jonas Family Faculty Fellows Honors Endowment at Washington State University Honors College (https://foundation.wsu.edu/)
Carol Marie Littlejohn, age 68, passed away on Monday October 29th at Memorial Hospital, Belleville IL after a long illness. Carol, the youngest child and only daughter of Wesley and Shirley King, was born on June 26, 1950 in Sparta, WI. She grew up in Tomah, WI and attended Tomah High School graduating in 1968. Carol also attended Milwaukee School of Cosmetology in Madison, WI. While there, she met her husband to be Robert Littlejohn, an Air Force meteorologist, whom she married September 6, 1969. They had three sons, traveled some of the world together during the remainder of his Air Force career, and enjoyed 49 years of marriage before her passing. Carol devoted her life to providing a comfortable, loving, safe home for her family. As the children grew and attended school Carol reentered the work force as a contracted clerk for Civil Engineering at lncirlik Air Base in Turkey. While in Turkey she enjoyed visiting ancient Roman ruins, the market bazaars, and the Mediterranean beaches. She became a supply custodian for the Department of Defense Dependent School in Nuremburg Germany during Bob's assignment supporting Second Armored Calvary Regiment. She became assistant librarian, one of her favorite jobs, at the DODD School at Grafenwoehr Germany when Bob was transferred to support the Commanding General of 7th Army Training Command. She loved Germany for its picturesque castles and wonderful food. While there she hosted her brother Toby and wife Marilyn as well as her Mom and Dad and friends from White's Ferry Road Church of Christ. Carol continued her career as an accounting technician for the Defense Finance and Accounting Service in St. Louis, Missouri when her husband was returned to the United States and Scott Air Force Base. She continued to work as an accounting technician until the death of her oldest son James, then 28, in June of 2001. She retired with disability shortly thereafter. Carol is survived by her husband Robert; remaining sons Aaron (Kristy) Littlejohn and Todd (Kara) Littlejohn; grandchildren Carli Ann and Mariah Littlejohn; Kyle, Ethan, and Kevin Littlejohn; Hannah, Andrew, and Evan Littlejohn; and sister in law Eleanor (Gary) King. She is further survived by an Aunt Carol (Leslie) Becker, many cousins, nieces, nephews, other family and friends. She was preceded in her death by her son James Littlejohn; and her brothers, Gary King and Toby (Wesley) King. Visitation will be held on Friday, November 2, 2018 from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Kassly Mortuary, Ltd, Fairview Heights. A Memorial Service will be on Saturday, November 3, 2018 at 11:00 a.m. at Kassly Mortuary, Ltd., Fairview Heights, IL.
Richard “Dick” Zentz, 70, of Caledonia, MS, passed away Friday, September 7, 2018, at Aberdeen Hospital in Aberdeen, MS, just two days shy of his 71st birthday. A memorial visitation will be held Tuesday, September 11, 2018, from 5:30 PM to 7:30 PM at Lowndes Funeral Home in Columbus, MS. Mr. Zentz final resting place with be in Kansas near his parents. Mr. Zentz was born on was born September 9, 1947, to the late Robert A. and Gayle Tarvin Zentz in Beloit, KS. He attended public schools in Jewell, KS and graduated from high school in 1965. Immediately after graduation, he enlisted in the United States Air Force and made a career of military service. His military service career let the “small town” boy see the world having traveled to Greenland, Antarctica, Brussels, Paris, Azores, Vietnam, Guam, Bangkok, Denmark, Bermuda and across the USA, just to mention a few. Mr. Zentz received several medals and awards while in the military. The biggest honors was him receiving 2 Purple Hearts and a Bronze Star with Valor. His specialty was the weather forecasting and after his retirement from the military on September 1, 1988, he went to work for the Department of Defense in a civilian capacity, but still “watching” the weather. Mr. Zentz served 23 years in the Air Force (TSgt) and 23 years in civil service (GS-10). He was named Air Force Weather Civilian of the Year in 2008. He retired from civilian weatherman in 2013 at Columbus AFB MS and continued to make his home in Caledonia, MS. Mr. Zentz was an avid hunter, a love that was instilled in him as a child growing up on the farm in Jewell County, KS. He probably began by hunting rabbits with his dad and brothers and as recently as two years ago, he made a trip back to Kansas to hunt with deer. Mr. Zentz in survived by his brothers, Robert Zentz of Eatonville, WA and Ronald (Pat) Zentz of Jewell, KS; sisters, Peggy (Terry) Stubbins of Frankston, TX and Linda (Mike) Wade of Stephenville, TX; nieces and nephews; and his close friend and hunting buddy, Stephen Johnston and family. In lieu of flowers, the family request memorials be made to Columbus-Lowndes Humane Society online at clhumanesociety.org.
CMSgt. (Ret) John Kappert, Jr USAF, 86, of Mascoutah, IL, born March 1, 1932 in Evansville, IN to Sula Lee, nee Hood and John Kappert, was the third of seven children, he died Wednesday, August 29, 2018 at St. Elizabeth's Hospital, O'Fallon, IL. Chief Kappert's 30 years of distinguished military career began in 1950 after he graduated from Reitz High School in Evansville, IN. He served in the Korean War, Taiwan and Thailand, in mission roles, directly supporting the Vietnam War. He also served in numerous other overseas and CONUS assignments. He was awarded four Meritorious Service Medals; Air Force Commendation Medal, Presidential Unit Citation, United Nations Service Medal, and Korean War Service Medal in addition to many other medals and achievement awards. He retired from the U. S. Air Force in 1980 after 30 years of active military service. After retirement, John returned to college completing a degree in communications management. In 1982 he was selected by the Air Force Communications Command to fill a civil service management position. He served in that position for 15 years, retiring in 1998 for a total of 45 years of military service to our country. He was preceded in death by his parents, John and Sula Lee, nee Hood, Kappert, his wife Ruth Ann, nee McGuire, Kappert, his second wife, Bobbie Jolene, nee Andrews, Kappert, three brothers, William, Robert, Jerry Kappert, two sisters, Marie Mead and Helen Murray. Surviving are his six children, John E.(Cora) Kappert of Stafford, VA, Linda (Mike) Richter, Connie Kappert-Knipp (Steve Knipp), Marie (Jim) Billingsley and Timothy (Lisa) Kappert, all of Mascoutah, IL, Lee Ann Wooley of Okawville, IL; 12 grandchildren; 19 great grandchildren; one great-great grandson; brother, Donald (Loretta) Kappert of Evansville, IN; sister-in-law, Becky Kappert of O'Fallon, IL; numerous nieces, nephews, many friends and military comrades. In lieu of all other gifts memorials may be made to Victory Church, 233 Scott Troy Rd., O'Fallon, IL 62269. Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting mollfuneralhome.com.
Robert “Bob” Eugene Miller CMSgt USAF (Ret.), an AWA Charter member, was born December 11, 1931 in St. Louis, Missouri to Kathryn and George Miller. He passed away July 22, 2018 at the VA Hospice in Boise, Idaho. Bob grew up in St. Louis, Missouri, attending school at the St. Lucas Parochial School. Bob worked at a local dime store to earn money and when he graduated high school in 1948 he went to Hadley Technical School. At age 17 he became a welder, but after burning his hands, he made the decision to join the Air Force in 1949 and was trained as a Meteorologist. Bob served three tours in Korea and he earned the Korean Service Medal and 2 Bronze stars; the Air Force Commendation Medal; the Meritorious Service Medal; the Air Force Outstanding Unit Award; and the National Defense Service Medal with Bronze Star. After 30 years of being a Meteorologist he retired as a Chief Master Sergeant (CMSgt). He entered the civil service as a War planner in Louisiana and continued his work with the Air Mobility Command as the Command Weather War Planner. He distinguished himself and received the Air Mobility Command’s Outstanding Staff Weather Support Civilian of the Year in 1995 and again in 2001. Bob was an exceptional weather planner and war planner. He supported the 8th Air Force, NORAD’s Northeast Air Defense Sector, and Numerous Reserve Air National Guard units in Eastern United States. With his government career spanning a total of over 50 years. Bob found the love of his life, Virginia “Ginny” I. Magee, and the two were married in 1953. Ginny brought to the marriage two daughters Priscilla Ann and Cheryl Lynn. Together they had another daughter, Joanne Denise. They were married for 55 years until Ginny passed away in 2008. Bob moved to Boise, Idaho in 2010 to be close to his daughter Joanne and family. Bob is preceded in death by his Parents, His wife, Virginia, His Sister Shirley Miller Beeson, and his Brother Dick. He is survived by his Brother George, and younger brother Jim; his Daughters Priscilla; Cheryl; Joanne and her Husband Jeff; His Grandchildren: Chris, Scott, Shaun, Jennifer, Daniel, Paul and Richard, and 25 + great-grandchildren.
Dinsmore, James F., CMSgt USAF (Ret) June 3, 1948-July 19, 2018 Age 70. Preceded in death by parents Lester and Alice Dinsmore and stepmother Bonnie Dinsmore. Survived by wife of 50 years Lois; sons David, Chris (Rachel) and Steven Dinsmore; grandchildren Caitlin, Jacob and Elizabeth; sisters Diane Scott, Sandy Boggs (Bill) and brothers Chuck Dinsmore and Rick Dinsmore. Visitation will be held Monday, July 23, 2018, 5:00-7:00 p.m. at the Bellevue Memorial Chapel. Funeral Service held Tuesday, July 24, 2018, noon at the Bellevue Memorial Chapel, 2202 Hancock Street, Bellevue 68005 Interment: Omaha National Cemetery, at 2:00 p.m. with Military Honors provided by Offutt Air Force Base Honor Guard
Thomas Albert Studer, Col USAF (Ret.), 86, of Belleville, IL, born December 23, 1931, in Farmington, MN, died Tuesday, July 17, 2018, at Memorial Hospital, Belleville, IL. Thomas was an AWA Charter member. He served as Weather Squadron Commander in Vietnam, Vice-Wing Commander First Weather Wing, Hickam AFB, HI and Division Chief Aerospace Science Shop, Headquarters Air Weather Service, Scott AFB, IL. He was a devout catholic and volunteered for over 20 years with the Perpetual Adoration Chapel at St. Teresa Catholic Church. Thomas was a family man and adored by his wife and daughters. He also loved golf, gardening, reading and bird-watching. He was preceded in death by his parents, Amandus and Hazel, nee Finn, Studer; and eleven siblings. Surviving are his wife of 45 years, Clair, nee Dumoulin, Studer, whom he married on January 6, 1973; two daughters, Carrie Studer of Belleville, IL, and Cathy (Kurt) Vogel of St. Louis, MO; a brother, Bill (Edna) Studer of Minnesota; two sisters, Dot (Dick) Lorentson of Minnesota, and Mary Ann Studer of Minnesota; and a sister-in-law, Cherie Studer, spouse of deceased brother, Ret. USA Col. Bob Studer of California. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Catholic Urban Programs. Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.rennerfh.com. Services: A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday, July 21, 2018, at St. Peter's Cathedral, Belleville, IL, with Msgr. John Myler officiating. Burial will be at Green Mount Catholic Cemetery, Belleville, IL.
Maurice Dean Kunkel, SMSgt USAF (Ret.), of Palmdale CA died of cancer on August 7, 2018. He was born in Duquoin, IL on July 18, 1938. He graduated from Christopher Community High School and married Judith Lorraine Prater on the same day. Maurice served 23 years in the U.S. Air Force, retiring as a Senior Master Sergeant, while working at Special Operations Weather Technician (Airborne) and culminating as advisor to California Air National Guard in 1979. In that time, he spent 6 years in Southeast Asia where he became fluent in Thai and Lao languages. He was awarded two bronze stars, 6 Air Medals, a joint-service commendation medal and was a lifetime member of VFW, retired enlisted association (TREA) and lifetime member of Air Weather Association. After military service, he worked as a realtor and notary public, later brokering is firm for over 20 years, where he specialized in the Eastern Antelope Valley. He also earned Associate Degrees at Antelope Valley College. He was President of Antelope Valley Foothill Board of Realtors in 1992. Concurrently, he sat as a hearing officer for the Assessment Appeals Board at multiple locations in Los Angeles Count for 25 years. For 28 years he served on the Wilsano School District Board of Trustees and the Antelope Valley School Boards Association and served as a Board member and Treasurer of Lake Los Angeles Chamber of Commerce for 28 years. Hobbies included dual-sport motorcycling, scuba diving, where he once traversed San Pedro to Catalina in an inflatable boat, and RVing in both Class A and C. He also owned several classic Chevrolet trucks. in 1982, he hiked Mt. Baden Powell and Mt. Whitney with his youngest son, Kevin. Maurice is survived by his wife of 62 years, Judith and two sons, Rod Kunkel and wife, Linda, of Lake Los Angeles, and Kevin Kunkel, and wife Joanne, of Reston, VA. He was preceded in death by his son Rick, who passed away in 2013. He leaves 5 grandsons, 3 granddaughters, nine great granddaughters and 1 great grandson. He has two sisters, Phyllis Pearson of Sesser, Ill. and Karen Kunkel of Kissemmee, Fla. Funeral was held on August 25 at Joshua Memorial Park in Lancaster, Calif. He was laid to rest at Lancaster Cemetery with military honors.
DeNardo Joseph W. "Joe" Age 87, of Moon Twp., passed away on June 15, 2018 in Pittsburgh. He was born in Martins Ferry, OH on November 27, 1930, the son of the late Mary Jane Pucci. Joe attended Duquesne University and served his country in the US Air Force, where he started his career in Meteorology when the Air Force sent him to the University of Chicago for his meteorological degree. He was the Chief Meteorologist for WTAE for over 40 years. He was the founder and chairman of Project Bundle up, worked with Special Olympics and numerous other charities. He was a member of St. Margaret Mary Parish, Moon Twp. In addition to his mother, Joe was preceded in death by his wife, Dolores J. (Wrana) DeNardo in 2009. He is survived by his sons, Joseph "Jeff" DeNardo (Karen), Moon Twp. and R. Douglas "Doug" DeNardo (Sharon), Moon Twp. Four grandchildren, Jeffrey DeNardo (Gabbie), Joseph DeNardo (Leah), Joshua DeNardo (Morgan) and Kelsey DeNardo (Stephen). A great grandson, Cooper DeNardo. Friends will be received on Monday, June 18, 2018, from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. and on Tuesday, June 19, 2018, from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. in the HUNTSMAN FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION SERVICES of MOON TWP. (1522 Coraopolis Hts. Rd.) Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Wednesday, June 20, 2018, at 10 a.m., in St. Margaret Mary Parish, Moon Twp. (Everyone please meet at the church.) Committal and entombment will follow in Resurrection Cemetery, Moon Twp. Memorial contributions may be made to: Project Bundle Up (www.projectbundleup.org). Joe DeNardo has died at the age of 87. Years before Pittsburgh was reciting “Joe Said it Would,” Joe was already a local icon. His name became synonymous with the weather. It wasn’t the Channel 4 Weather Center – it was the DeNardo weather center. As the chief meteorologist, he always kept viewers ahead of whatever mother nature was throwing their way. That sense of serving the public was always in Joe’s blood. Joe was born and raised in Martins Ferry, Ohio. He graduated from Wheeling Central Catholic School in West Virginia before going on to Duquesne University to study math and physics. After graduating from Duquesne in 1953, he earned a masters degree in meteorology from the University of Chicago, then served as an officer in the United States Air Force. Joe was promoted to the rank of commander of the weather detachment at the Greater Pittsburgh Air Force Base. Following an honorable discharge, he opened a weather service business with his Air Force friend David McFarland and began advising KDKA’s weather personalities before appearing on air himself. Joe DeNardo joined WTAE after meeting then-General Manager John Conomikes in 1969. After they met, DeNardo called Mr. Conomikes and told him he needed work. The two met at Poli's restaurant in Squirrel Hill and negotiated a multi-year contract that was written on a white linen napkin. Mr. Conomikes is now a Director of the Hearst Corporation and a Trustee of the Hearst Family Trust. Joe and news anchor Paul Long became long-time on-air partners – and the face of Channel 4. He took pride in using his math and science skills to provide accurate forecasts, and was recognized throughout his career for keeping people safe. Joe brought his love of science and weather to hundreds of thousands of students – making countless trips to schools throughout Western Pennsylvania in Sky 4. Though he was known for his forecast and campaigns, his biggest Pittsburgh legacy may have been his charity work. Joe was a passionate promoter of the Special Olympics – hosting his celebrity golf and softball tournaments in St. Mary’s. He also was the leader of the team that started Project Bundle-Up, the partnership with the Salvation Army that has raised more than $14 million and put warm winter outerwear on more than 275,000 children and seniors in Western Pennsylvania. After a lung cancer diagnosis, Joe not only successfully recovered and returned to the DeNardo Weather Watch Center, but became an advocate for cancer research. In 2002, Joe carried the Olympic flame through the streets of Pittsburgh as the torch made its way to Salt Lake City for the winter games. He passed it on to fellow cancer survivor Pittsburgh Penguins owner Mario Lemieux. Most important to Joe was his family. He shared the spotlight with his beloved wife Delores, his sons Doug and Jeff, and his grandchildren and great grandchildren during the annual WTAE day and parade through Kennywood Park many summers. He never missed his sons’ football games or wrestling matches. In fact, he was so dedicated to his family’s community of Moon Township that he became the chairman of the Parks and Recreation Board, where he volunteered for decades. In 2012, Moon Township supervisors showed their gratitude by renaming the road that runs through Moon Park Joe DeNardo Way. Though he officially retired from WTAE in 2005, he continued to be part of the Channel 4 family by lending his voice to help those less fortunate and continuing to mentor meteorologists. He was honored by the Mid Atlantic Chapter of the Emmys with its highest honor, the Governors’ Award, for his lifetime achievement. Joe gave a lifetime of service to his community, his country and his family. He will always be remembered for keeping Pittsburgh protected, every step of the way.
Fern L.S. "Steep" Steepleton, Lt Col USAF (Ret.) of Lacey, Washington, died unexpectedly on Tuesday, June 5, 2018. He was born on April 27, 1922 in Pueblo, Colorado. He attended Centennial High School. He joined the Army Air Corps on January 3, 1943 and flew 33 missions as a B-24 pilot in the European Theater during WWII. He was shot down twice, the second time was Christmas day 1944, when he was taken prisoner by the Germans. After the war, he earned his bachelor's degree and made the Air Force a career for 23 years as a pilot and weatherman. After retiring from the military, he came to Seattle, where he had a second career with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. He was preceded in death by his parents, Fern A. and Lois Steepleton; his sister, Roxy Thompson; and his first wife of 45 years, Helen Steepleton. He is survived by his wife, Hazel Steeepleton of Lacey; his daughters, Cassandra Fosberg (Jack) of Onalaska, Washington, and Paula Oliver (Bob) of Bellevue, Washington; his son, Scott Steepleton (Lisa) of Burien, Washington. He was Grampa to six grandsons, Brent Brower, Jeremy Brower, Seth Brower, Tony Oliver, Sean Oliver, Drew Oliver; granddaughter, Kelsey Steepleton; many great grandchildren; his brother, Glenn Steepleton (June) of Colorado; and sister, Donna Hernandez of Florida. He also is survived by family members he added to his life after his marriage to Hazel, including Christie Smith (Troy), Karen Anderson (Jim); grandchildren, Amy, Ryan, Lena, Sarah, Brad; and multiple great grandchildren. Home Depot won't know what to do without their almost daily customer stopping by to get "just that part he needed" to complete some project he was always working on. He said he had to "dope it out" to solve the problem, which he always did, including up to the last day we were privileged to have him with us. His love for his family was a joy for him, and felt by all of us. A few of his favorite things in life, which he did with gusto, were barbershop singing, traveling in his motorhome, buying treats for his dogs, going to the commissary where he got the "Good morning, Lt. Colonel," which always brought a smile to his face. Yes, his contagious smile, quick chuckle, and lasting comment as we left his presence, "Now, don't go away mad!" will be remembered with love and missed with all our hearts. Private services. Please share memories at www.FuneralAlternatives.org
Richard L. D’Arcy, Col USAF (Ret.) age 93 of Manassas, Virginia passed away at the Georgetown University Hospital on May 31, 2018. Richard was born in Los Angeles, California on September 29, 1924 to Fred and Elizabeth D’Arcy. Richard attended St. Thomas Catholic grade school, graduated from Loyola High School both in Los Angeles. Upon graduating from high school he entered the reserve component at Loyola University and on March 17, 1943 was called to active duty. Richard served as a weatherman in World War II until 1945. He served in North Africa at El Fasher Air Field, in the 19th Weather Squadron, assisting US pilots and others using the airfield. He was called “the Kid” for being the youngest weatherman. Following his time in World War II, Richard went to Loyola University. He entered the Jesuit Seminary after one year at the University. After 12 years of being a novitiate, Richard was ordained a priest on June 18, 1958 at the Blessed Sacrament Church in Los Angeles, California. His first Mass as a priest was at St. Joseph’s Church in Pomona, California. In July 1961, Richard rejoined the Army serving in the Chaplains corps, until June of 1989 retiring with the rank of Colonel. During his distinguished career he received the Bronze Star Medal with clusters, the Meritorious Medal with clusters, the Army Commendation Medal, the Army Achievement medal, the Vietnam Service medal, the Legion of Merit medal with clusters and the Armed Services medal. In 1989 Richard married Rochelle in Virginia. They were married for 29 years before his death. Richard is survived by his wife Rochelle D’Arcy; a sister Audrey Palmer and a stepson Michael Creegan. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Clare of Assisi Church, 12409 Henderson Rd., Clifton, VA 20124 on Saturday, June 23, 2018 at 12 noon. The family will receive friends at the Fairfax Memorial Funeral Home, 9902 Braddock Rd., Fairfax, VA on Saturday, June 23, 2018 from 9am to 11am. A funeral with full military honors will be held at the Ft. Myer chapel followed by burial at Arlington National Cemetery at a date and time to be determined.
Daniel B. Mitchell (Col. USAF Ret), age 97, died April 10th, 2018 at Givens Estates Health Center. He will be buried at the Veterans Cemetery in Black Mountain, NC with his wife (Wilma Hicks Mitchell), who preceded him in death, November 17, 2002. He is survived by a son, Gilbert Wayne Mitchell, daughter, Star Anna Mitchell, 4 grandsons, 1 granddaughter, 2 great grandchildren, 5 brothers, 3 sisters, 3 half-sisters, and 3 half-brothers. He graduated from the University of Chicago in 1953 with a Master of Science degree in Physical Science. Col. Mitchell served 31 years in the US Air force as a pilot and a meteorologist. He flew 25 combat missions in a B-25H and 88 missions in a P-47D30 in WWII, served as Commander of the 1st Weather Group in Vietnam in 1969, and was Commander, Air Force Global Weather Central from 1970 until retiring in 1973. After retiring from the USAF, he served with The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration for 9 years and retired from the Federal Executive Service in 1982 as an Executive Level 4, Director of the National Climatic Center in Asheville, NC. He served on the boards of the Asheville Buncombe County United Way, Daniel Boone Council, Boy Scouts of America, and Asheville Chapter of the American Red Cross. He was a member of the Asheville Rotary Club from 1976 and was President of the club in 1993. He was an active member of the First Baptist Church of Asheville. His family and friends will always have fond memories of his joyful smile, warm spirit, and loving heart. A funeral service was held on Monday, April 16, 2018 at the Western Carolina State Veterans Cemetery, 962 Old US Hwy 70, Black Mountain, NC 28711.
Clarice Marie (Kello) “Claire” Black, age 80, died peacefully on April 9, 2018, at home in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. She was a 20-year resident of Sioux Falls, having moved here with husband Robert in 1998. Claire was born on January 14, 1938, in Butte, Silver Bow, Montana, the fourth child of Margaret (Kasun) and Nick Kello. Claire grew up and attended both parochial and public schools in this famed mining town, graduating in 1956 from Butte High School. She attended Montana State University in Bozeman, Montana, graduating there with a BS in June, 1966. Just prior to graduation, she married Lt. Robert E. Black of Billings, Montana, on May 28, 1966. Moving to many locations with her itinerant husband, they retired from the U. S. Air Force in Papillion, Nebraska, in 1991. During the many moves and living locations, this proud Air Force wife provided the family with three lovely children. Amidst all the moving, homemaking, child rearing, and caring for a lovely group of collies, Claire garnered the requirements needed from Troy State University Montgomery and Southwest Texas State University for a Master’s degree in Education from Troy State. Since that wasn’t enough she completed all requirements including dissertation for a doctorate in education from California Coast University in 1991. Thrown in here are teaching assignments in several subjects at a local business college and teaching teens with special needs in the local Prince George’s County school system. She held secondary teacher certification in Montana, Alabama, Texas, and Nebraska. She was a member of Kappa Delta Pi international honor society. As an accomplished classical pianist, she shared her talents and improved her techniques with multiple teaching and learning experiences. Claire moved to Sioux Falls, South Dakota with husband Robert in 1998. While he was employed at EROS Data Center, Claire continued to share her musical knowledge and talent with an active Piano Group in Sioux Falls, retiring from that group in 2017. Claire is survived by her husband Robert; three children: Deanna Hutchins (Brett) of Valrico, Florida, Karen Black (Mark Holder) of Phoenix, Arizona, and Eric Black (Tanya Elliott) of Northcote, Victoria, Australia. She is also survived by her brother, Joseph M. Kello of Las Vegas, Nevada and by seven grandchildren: Nicholas Black of Sioux Falls; Brooke Hutchins of Loveland, Colorado; Shelby Jones (Levi) of Belgrade, Montana; Meghan Jeffs (Braden) of Windsor, Colorado; Morgan Hutchins of Gainesville, Florida; and Niamh and Seamus Black of Northcote, Victoria, Australia and four greatgrandchildren and many nieces, nephews, and cousins around the country. Two older brothers, John and James, predeceased her.
William “Bill” Misko, 88, of Dubuque died peacefully on Friday, March 16, 2018. Visitation will be Saturday, March 24 from 10:00 am – 1:00 pm at the Egelhof, Siegert and Casper Westview Funeral Home, 2659 Kennedy Road. Funeral services will be at 1:00 pm at the funeral home, with military rites immediately following at the chapel at Linwood Cemetery. Bill was born on June 22, 1929 in Martins Ferry, Ohio to Sam Sr. and Tessianna (Gudza) Misko. Bill proudly served in the Air Force during the Korean War, working as a weatherman and earning the rank of Staff Sargeant. Following his discharge, Bill attended The Ohio State University on the GI Bill and graduated with a degree in Animal Science in 1957. While a student at Ohio State, he met his future wife of 54 years, Constance “Connie” Walters. They were married in Cleveland, Ohio on December 18, 1954. Connie and Bill moved to Iowa in the late 50’s and had resided in Dubuque since1963. Bill was a meat grader for the Dubuque Packing Company for over 20 years. He then worked as a meat grader for the US Government, grading and ensuring meat safety for public school lunches. After retiring, he begrudgingly joined Connie on trips to Europe, Russia and Alaska, as well as numerous bus trips around the United States, where it turned out he very much enjoyed himself. Bill was a member of the Dubuque Garden Club and was an early volunteer for what became the Dubuque Arboretum and Botanical Gardens, where he planted many of the trees and plants that are still appreciated today. When his children were young he enjoyed putting them to work in the garden and taking them fishing. He looked forward to taking his family on annual trips to destinations across the United States, usually pulling the family camper behind. Bill loved talking about the weather, his days in the Air Force, the best route to take to any destination, his fruit trees (especially pears) and his garden, but the great love of his life was his family, for whom he would and did do anything. Bill is survived by his four children, Aleeda (Terry) Duggan of Dubuque; Craig (Cathy) Misko of Prior Lake, MN; Doug (LeAnn) Misko of Chicago, IL and Eric (Stephanie) Misko of Dubuque; grandchildren Connor and Aleece Duggan; Kyle, Tyler and Nicole Misko and Ariel Ebersviller and Blake Misko; great-grandchildren Gracie Olsen and Owen, Evalyn and Ivan Ebersviller; a sister, Olga Heslop and companion Colleen Van Dee. He was preceeded in death by his wife Connie; his parents; four sisters, Olga Misko (in infancy), Katherine Dona, Ann Misko and Rose Yandora; and four brothers, Steve (in infancy), Sam Jr., Peter and Henry “Andy” (Doke) Misko. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Bill’s honor to the Polycystic Kidney Disease Foundation, P.O. Box 871847, Kansas City, MO 64187-1847 or the Dementia Society of America, P.O. Box 600, Doylestown, PA 18901. Bill’s family would like to thank the staff at Stonehill Care Center, and especially those on 3 North, for their wonderful care of Bill for the past ten months. Bill’s family would also like to thank his companion Colleen for providing Bill with a great deal of happiness during the last part of his life.
Colonel Michael A. Neyland, USAF (Ret.) passed away on February 14, 2018 surrounded by his family. He was born in Frankfurt, Germany on February 11, 1949 and was the eldest son of the late Colonel Lewis, USAF (Ret.) and Dorothy (Manley) Neyland. Mike received a Bachelor of Science Degree in Engineering and a commission as a second lieutenant in the Regular Air Force from the United States Military Academy in June 1971. He also held two additional advanced degrees. His Air Force career was dedicated to ensuring the success and future of the Air Force Weather Agency's command, control, doctrine and operations. He held various positions of command and responsibility throughout his 30 year Air Force career. Colonel Neyland's military decorations include multiple awards of the Legion of Merit, Meritorious Service, Air Medal, Joint Service Commendation, Air Force Commendation, Combat Readiness and Humanitarian Service Medals. He was also awarded the Aircrew Member Badge and Master Meteorologist Badge. He was a dedicated participant in Officer's Christian Fellowship Bible Studies for 32 years. Colonel Mike Neyland continued service to his country for more than 17 years as a Senior Engineering Manager with General Dynamics Advanced Information Systems. Mike was a member of the West Point Alumni Association, and Treasurer of the Northern Virginia International Plastic Modelers Society for 21 years. Colonel Neyland is survived by his wife of 43 years, Joy (Rector) Neyland; children, Jenny Neyland and Alex Neyland (Kathy); granddaughter, Caris Neyland; and his siblings, Rob Neyland (Deb and daughter, Abbey), Dave Neyland (Sue and sons, Zach and Thomas), and Kathleen Gustad (Kirk and sons, Aaron and Taylor). Interment will follow at a later date at Arlington National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the Warrior Foundation Freedom Station (www.warriorfoundation.org).
Oliver J. Muldoon, Major USAF (Ret.) of Falmouth, MA, age 68, died suddenly on Sunday, Feb 11, 2018 with his loving wife of 47 years, Susan Muldoon, at his side. A lifelong Catholic, Oliver was born in New Inn, County Galway, Ireland in 1949, the eldest of five children of Michael and Maureen (Glynn) Muldoon. He attended Coláiste Einde School and University College, Galway, where he was awarded a degree in history, a subject he was always deeply interested in. He worked his way through college performing as a piano player in Salthill. In Galway he met his future wife, Susan (Fleischman) of Ann Arbor, Michigan, and they were married on January 20, 1971 in Furbo, Ireland. Later that year, they moved to Ann Arbor, and Oliver joined the United States Air Force where he had a distinguished 23-year career as a meteorologist. Oliver’s Air Force career took him and Susan to many places in the U.S., including New Hampshire, Illinois, South Carolina, Alaska, Missouri, California, Massachusetts, Louisiana and more. He was a distinguished graduate of the Officer Training School, and received a Masters in Meteorology from the Naval Postgraduate School in Monterey, California. He was also the Chief of Weather at England Air Force Base from 1989 to 1992. Following his retirement from the Air Force, Oliver and Susan moved to Falmouth, MA in 1994 where Oliver began a successful second career in real estate. He also followed his passion for music, playing piano throughout the community (solo and with various groups), as well as singing with Susan for many years in the Falmouth Chorale, Woods Hole Cantata and with Susan founded and sang with Schola Cantorum of Falmouth. Oliver also loved to play tennis, a sport he had learned as a teenager in Galway and continued to play throughout his life. Oliver always kept his love of Ireland close, and he and Susan returned many times over the years to visit with friends and family alike. Oliver was well-known in Galway, Falmouth and beyond for his great wit, quick smile, patience and kindness to all. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him. He was a good man, and he lived a full life dedicated to loving and supporting his family. Oliver was a loving and devoted husband to Susan, and a beloved father to his six children: Frank (Anastasia) Muldoon, (St. Petersburg, Russia), Peter "Pete" Muldoon (Jackson Hole, WY), Laura Muldoon (Arlington, MA), Fiona (Michael) Palladino (King of Prussia, PA), Shena (Gabriel) Rossettie (Corning, NY) and Paula Muldoon (Cambridge, England). He will be sorely missed by his sisters and brother in Ireland: Eileen (Willie) Dillon and Michael (Eibhlín) Muldoon of Galway, and Renee (Brian) Brennan of Gort, his aunt, Angela Campbell, as well as his large extended family and many friends. He was also a loving grandfather to his 16 grandchildren – Preston Rivers, Maureen McAfee, Alexander Kolbe, Audrey McAfee, Aaron McAfee, Samantha Palladino, Cyrus Palladino, Richard Rossettie, Owen Palladino, Silvia Rossettie, Lilian Muldoon, Max Muldoon, Noah Palladino, Thomas Rossettie, Mary Rossettie, Olivia Muldoon, and three more grandchildren soon to be born. Oliver was preceded in death by his parents, Michael and Maureen (Glynn) Muldoon, his sister, Mary Gamble, his father-in-law Herbert Fleischman and his mother-in-law Cecelia Fleischman. Interment was in Saint Joseph Cemetery, Gifford Street, Falmouth, MA www.warehamvillagefuneralhome.com
DOROTHY LINDWALL SAITTA CIPRIANO, wife of retired USAF Lt Col John Cipriano, passed away peacefully on February 1, 2018. She was preceded in death by her first husband, Major Michael Saitta USAF, her parents, Rudy and Margaret Lindwall, and her brother, Richard Lindwall. She is survived by her children, Dr. Michael Saitta (Wynn), David Saitta (Cynthia) and Laura Saitta. She is also survived by her stepchildren, Jeannette Cipriano Maize (Jay), Jennifer Cipriano (Ben), and Tony Cipriano (Sarah); grandchildren, Wayne Pearson (Ali), Colt Pearson, Jonathan Saitta, Jaclyn Saitta, Angela Saitta, Ariana Saitta, Nathan Maize, Avery Maize, Viola Cipriano, Vincent McManus, Nicolas Cipriano and Natalie Cipriano; great-grandchildren, Bobby, Tatum and Logan Pearson; along with her sister,Peggy Sorrentino, sister-in-law, Joann Lindwall and nephews, Rick Gallo (Dawn), Rich Lindwall (Lauren) and Joey Lindwall (Jaime). Dorothy completed her bachelor and master degrees at Wright State University after which she began her civilian career for the USAF at the Air Force Institute of Technology; followed by many years for the Air Staff at the Pentagon. During her husband John's tour in Germany, she worked for USAFE in Ramstein AB. After retirement, Dorothy was an Air Force "Arlington Lady" volunteer at Arlington National Cemetery for 12 years. She was a member of the Sumi-e Society of America and a Resident Associate at the Smithsonian. Memorial donations may be made to Wounded Warriors or a charity of your choice. Please view and sign the family guestbook at: www.jeffersonfuneralchapel.com
John Terry Gordon, 92, of Silver Spring, Maryland, passed away on January 29, 2018, peacefully in his sleep surrounded by his close family. John was born in Dallas, Texas, on March 16, 1925. He graduated from Arlington High School and continued on to receive a degree in mathematics from Southern Methodist University in Dallas, Texas. John was married to Mieko Komatsu on March 16, 1956. They were married for 62 years. John served in the U.S. Army Air Corps as a fighter pilot and worked as a meteorologist for more than 30 years. He enjoyed fiddling with his computer, reading, gardening, tinkering with cars, and photography. John is survived by his beautiful wife, Mieko K. Gordon, two children, Betty F. Gordon and Janice G. Herman and her husband, William N. Herman; his two grandchildren, Deborah A. Glazer and Kimberly S. Emerson; his great-granddaughter, Natalie D. Emerson; his nieces and nephews, and the rest of his wonderful family and many friends. John was preceded in death by his parents, Ira L. Gordon and Bettie L. Terry. Private services will be held for immediate family. Memorial donations may be given to the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force at http://www.afmuseum.com/. AWA member, CMSgt USAF (Ret.) Craig Kirwin added: John flew P-51 Mustangs against the Luftwaffe in WWII at the ripe old age of 19 years old. He came back on active service in 1949 and trained as a weather officer at Chanute before receiving orders to Japan just as the Korean War kicked off. John and his weather team were immediately shipped to Korea as one of the first weather teams into the country after the North invaded. John got checked out on the now designated F-51 Mustang in Korea so he could do weather recon. John also found himself covering retreating American forces in his F-51 and did some strafing against enemy targets as well. Capt. John Gordon was awarded the Bronze Star in Korea and many Air Medals during his career. I interviewed John a few times and we became friends. He was one heck of a guy and a true Air Force weather warrior.
Dr. Tom Utley, a retired associate professor at Florida Institute of Technology, College of Aeronautics, passed away Thursday, January 25, 2018 after a courageous battle with cancer. The family will receive friends from 12-1:00 pm followed by a Memorial Service at 1:00 pm on Sunday, February 4, 2018 at The Crowne Plaza, 2605 N. Highway A1A, Melbourne, FL 32903. Full military honors will be bestowed by the Air Force honor guard from Patrick Air Force base. In lieu of flowers donations in Toms' memory may be made to to the Brevard Humane Society, 1020 Cox Road, Cocoa, FL 32966. Funeral arrangements entrusted to Seawinds Funeral Home, 735 S. Fleming Street, Sebastian, FL 32958. For directions and online guestbook please visit www.seawindsfh.com. Seawinds Funeral Home is honored to serve the Utley family.
Joseph C. Toschik, MSgt USAF (Ret.), died on Jan. 23, 2018 from complications related to the flu. He was 71 years old. Half Moon Bay Library staff and patrons were forced to say an early goodbye to one of their long-time librarians after he died roughly two months before he was set to retire. Known by many as a soft-spoken yet friendly presence, Joseph Carmen Toschik The El Granada resident was born in Milwaukee, but grew up in Phoenix, Ariz., and attended Arizona State University. Before becoming a librarian, Toschik worked as a weather forecaster for the U.S. Air Force, where he was awarded several medals for his service. After retiring from the Air Force in 1989, Toschik studied library science at San Jose State University where he earned his master’s degree in the subject and secured his job as a reference librarian in Half Moon Bay. Half Moon Bay Library Branch Manager Annie Malley noted that Toschik lived nearly his entire life as a public servant from his time on the U.S. Air Force to his 25 years at the Half Moon Bay library. Toschik was known to have loved the Coastside. Each morning he would purchase a cup of coffee at the El Granada Hardware & Cafe before going for a stroll along the Coastal Trail. As a lover of photography, Toschik would snap pictures of the beautiful coastal surroundings. Although the back room of the temporary library has no windows, Malley said that Toschik’s posted images afforded the staff views of the surrounding ocean, mountain ranges and farmland. Malley noted that Toschik was often the first to volunteer for any community event and lent a lovely “radio personality” type voice to children’s story times. “He gave to his community,” Malley said. That was apparent even on Toschik’s last day, which was spent at Seton Medical Center in Daly City. Malley said that one of Toschik’s nurses grew up in Half Moon Bay and remembered Toschik from her younger days visiting for story time and after her school days at Cunha Intermediate School. “There’s something really wonderful about that,” Malley said. “He helped hundreds of people and on his last day he was helped by one of those patrons.” In his spare time, Toschik served as a volunteer with the Plover Watch Program that is based out of Half Moon Bay State Parks. He volunteered with the program for the last 15 years. Half Moon Bay Library Circulation Supervisor Mary Patterson attends the Half Moon Bay Methodist Church where Toschik was also a member. Patterson noted that her colleague was devoted to the church and would serve as usher each Sunday for the 8:30 a.m. service. “We’ve had so many people coming in to (the library to) share their condolences,” Patterson said. A memorial service for Toschik will take place at 11 a.m. on Feb. 17 at the Community United Methodist Church.
