Author Archives: Larry Hames

Charles Stallings is in the 1964-65 cruise book as an AMS1 in the Airframes Shop. He is listed on the roster in the 1967 book, but his rate is not shown. Please let me know if anyone had contact with Charles after he left the squadron and knows his rating when he retired.

Charles G. Stallings VP-4 1964 – 1967

Charles Glenn Stallings, 87, went peacefully to be with his Lord and Savior at his home on the morning of January 12, 2023. Charles was born in Johnston County, North Carolina, to the late Oscar and Flora Starling Stallings. He was preceded in death by his loving wife, Shelby Jean Taylor Stallings, of 63 years. Charles served 20 years in the US Navy and 34 years in civil service before retiring at 76. Charles was a faithful member and Sunday school teacher of “The Senior Ambassadors” class at Chesapeake Baptist Church. He loved every moment he spent among his precious friends there.

Left to cherish his memory are daughters Anita Hall (Van), Barbara King, and Lisa Gilgeous; brothers Walter and Robert Stallings; 9 loving grandchildren and one great-grandchild.

Burial will occur at Peninsula Memorial Park, 12750 Warwick Boulevard, Newport News.

https://www.grahamfuneralhome.com/memorials/charles-stallings/5116910/index.php#details

Richard was a Power Plants Officer and flew as a Navigator on Crew 2.

CDR Richard H. Hagenlocker USN (Ret) VP-4 1960 – 1962

Richard Hagenlocker, 86, of Fredericksburg, retired Navy Commander and computer scientist, died April 22.

He grew up on a Union County, Ohio, farm with his parents, Ralph and Elsie (Carson) Hagenlocker and brother Edward.

He graduated from Marysville High School and Ohio Wesleyan University (BA in Mathematics). He joined the Navy in 1959 as a naval flight officer and computer scientist. He earned his MS in Computer Science from Stanford University in 1965.

Richard met and married Elsie (Cooper) Hagenlocker at flight school in Corpus Christi, Texas. His first squadron, VP-4, was based in Okinawa, where his children Michael and Kathleen were born.

His Navy tours of duty included Okinawa, Monterey, VP-19 at Moffett Field and Iwakuni, Dam Neck, San Nicolas Island, Quantico, Dahlgren, and the Pentagon.

In 1979, he retired from the Navy and went on to consulting work for the Departments of Energy and Defense. He worked on the Tomahawk program for Southeastern Computer Consultants (SCCI) in Fredericksburg for over 20 years, retiring as vice president.

He enjoyed hiking, camping, art, and bridge (ACBL Sapphire Life Master with over 8000 competition points).

Richard was quiet and kind. He had a generous nature and a wry sense of humor.

He is survived by his wife, Elsie; son, Michael (Ping Cai); daughter, Kathleen Hagenlocker (Allen Bliss); two grandsons, Charles and Elliot Hagenlocker Bliss; brother, Ed; and many nieces and nephews.

Services will be held at St Paul’s Episcopal Church in King George, where he was a member for 50 years, on Saturday, May 20, at 11 am.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Chesapeake Bay Foundation, 6 Herndon Ave, Annapolis, MD 21403 (www.cbf.org).

Ken Vaughn worked in ECM as an ATSAN, according to the 1959-1960 cruise book.

John Kenneth “Ken” Vaughn, 82, of Fort Smith, AR, passed away on Friday, March 24, 2023, in Fort Smith. He was born July 27, 1940 in Antlers, OK. He retired from the U.S. Navy and was a veteran of the Vietnam Era, an electronics technician for Martin Marietta, and a Cavanaugh United Methodist Church member. He was preceded in death by his mother, Ollie Kate Vaughn, and one son, Michael Vaughn.

He is survived by his wife of 54 years, Dee; two daughters, Deanna Marie Vaughn of Lawton, OK, and Melissa Anne McArthur of Idaho Springs, CO; seven grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.

Funeral service will be at 11:30 AM Wednesday, March 29, 2023, at Cavanaugh United Methodist Church, with burial in U.S. National Cemetery with full Military Honors under the direction of Ocker-Putman Funeral Home of Fort Smith.

Pallbearers will be Nathen Vaughn, Andy Clark, Ben Pacheco, Doug Kelly, Mike Topham, and Ken Norton.

Viewing will be at the funeral home from 11:00 AM until 7:00 PM Tuesday.

https://www.ockerputmanfuneralhome.com/memorials/john–vaughn/5165627/index.php

CDR Dale F. Myers USNR (Ret) VP-4 1959 – 1961

Dale Frederick Myers of Santa Barbara, California, passed away on September 13, 2022, after a brief illness. He was 87.

Dale was born on July 21, 1935, to Albert Eugene “E.E.” Myers and Katherine Minch “Grandma Gucci” Myers in Jordan Valley, Oregon. As a young child, his family moved to San Ramon, California, where he graduated from San Ramon High School in 1953. His education continued at Westmont College in Montecito, where he graduated in 1957.

While attending Westmont, his best friend, Ralph De la Vega, introduced him to his future wife, Roberta Paulin, whom he would marry and raise two children in Santa Barbara. He remained best friends with Ralph until his passing.

After college, Dale joined the Navy, completing officers’ training and serving his country as a pilot (flying P2Vs) and a commander for ten years — eventually going into the Navy Reserve for an additional 12 years.

After the Navy, Dale worked in the public sector using his leadership, communication, and writing skills in advertising. He eventually worked with and in developing the Santa Barbara Rescue Mission programs. He genuinely believed in the work of the mission and was passionate about his role.

Dale is survived by his wife, Roberta Myers; their son, Michael; and daughter, Nancy; three grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.

The family requests that, in place of flowers, donations be made to the Santa Barbara Rescue Mission on his behalf.

https://www.noozhawk.com/dale_frederick_myers_of_santa_barbara_1935_2022/

While verifying addresses, I found that Don Ferkin passed away earlier this year.  Don served as the Material Officer in 1958 and Schedules Officer and Crew 7 PPC in 1959.  I found this obituary published by his high school alum association.

LT Donald J. Ferkin VP-4 1957 – 1960

Don Ferkin died peacefully in Sun Lakes, AZ, on March 6, 2023, at 88.  Don was born on March 9, 1934, and had a blessed life growing up in Kenosha, WI, where he developed a passion for the outdoors.  His main activities during childhood included fishing and playing all sorts of sports, as he was a stellar athlete.  Upon graduating from Mary D. Bradford High School in 1951, he attended the University of Wisconsin in 1955 with a degree in Marketing/Finance.  After college, Don joined the U.S. Navy, where they taught him to fly, soloing him at Pensacola in a T-34 on March 17, 1956.  After ten years of Navy service, he joined American Airlines on June 13, 1966.  He was based in Chicago for his entire aviation career, flying the Convair 990, BAC 111, Boeing 727, and McDonnell Douglas DC-10.  He completed his 28-year career as a Boeing 727 Captain, retiring in 1994 at age 60.  It was the honor of his life to be a pilot at American Airlines.

Don married Mary Ellen Brickley on June 29, 1957.  Don and Mary Ellen had a large family, raising five children on Loch Lomond Lake in Mundelein, IL.  Don loved to golf, fish, ski, and play poker and tennis in his spare time.  He was very accomplished in his hobbies; he won the Navy golf tournament and played in several pro-am tournaments.  His photo books are filled with countless pictures of trophy fish.

Don spent his retirement years splitting time between Mundelein and Sun Lakes.  He continued to nurture his love of sports and fishing in both homes.  In addition to his sports activities, he thoroughly enjoyed spending quality time with his seven grandchildren.  He was the best grandpa a child could hope for, taking the grandkids for countless hours to Great America and teaching them to swim in Sun Lakes.

Don is survived by his sister, Joanne Swift of Middleburg, VA; his children:  Marty Ferkin of Virginia Beach, Mike (Monica) Ferkin of Gurnee, IL, Maureen Ferkin of Parker, CO, Diane (Jay) Henry of Salt Lake City, and Donna (Tom) Lantz of Parker, CO; and his grandchildren:  Christine and Jacob Henry, Megan, Julia, Anna and Daniel Lantz, and Kailyn Ferkin.  He was preceded in death by his loving wife, Mary Ellen.

https://www.kenoshabradfordalumni.com/class_profile.cfm?member_id=9313371

https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/260119044/donald-john-ferkin

https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/170811725/mary-ellen-ferkin

https://memorials.prokofuneralhome.com/mary-ferkin/707616/obituary.php

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Larry HamesAVCM USN (Ret)
VP-4 1975 – 1978
VP-4 Veterans Assn Database Manager

AMSAN Jerry A. Morris VP-4 1957 – 1959

Jerry A. Morris, 86, of Centralia, passed away Tuesday, February 7, 2023, at S.S.M. Health Good Samaritan Hospital in Mt. Vernon.
A Visitation for Jerry Morris will be held Friday, February 10, 2023, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at the Calumet Street Christian Church in Centralia. A Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, February 11, 2023, at 2:00 PM at the Hillcrest Lakeside Chapel in Centralia. Burial will follow at Hillcrest Memorial Park. Military Honors will be accorded at the gravesite by the U.S. Navy Funeral Honors, Centralia American Legion Post 446, and Centralia V.F.W. Post 2055. In place of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Oil Belt Christian Service Camp. They will be accepted at the Sutherland-Garnier Funeral Home at 235 North Sycamore Street Centralia, Illinois 62801, (618)532-3523, which is honored to be of service to Jerry’s Family. Online condolences may be made to the family by visiting www.sutherlandfuneralhome.com and the Sutherland-Garnier Funeral Home Facebook Page.
He was born August 5, 1936, in Kinmundy. He was the son of Harold Arthur Morris and Ida Belle (Sadler) Morris. He married Sue Knolhoff on June 25, 1961, and she preceded him in death on July 12, 2022.
His two children survive Jerry: Shelley Butts and husband David and Jason Morris and wife Katrina; five grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren; sister: Carolyn Lamm of Arizona; brother: Kevin Morris of Springfield, Illinois; and several nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Harold and Ida Morris, wife, Sue Morris, and a brother, Larry Morris.
Jerry worked for Kas Potato Chip for several years until he retired. During his retirement, he decided to work for Country Bobs for a couple of years.
Jerry served in the U.S. Navy. While he was serving in the Navy, he started making leather items. Once back home, he and his wife, Sue, made several leather products together. Jerry was a Charter Member of Calumet Street Christian Church, formerly the Hickory Street Christian Church in Centralia. He volunteered as the Boy Scout Leader of Troup 202 for 20 years. He was a car enthusiast; he enjoyed traveling and gardening. Jerry was also an avid St. Louis Cardinal’s fan.

https://www.sutherlandfuneralhome.com/obituaries/Jerry-Morris-21/#!/Obituary

ATAN Norman R. Bute VP-4 1957 – 1959

Norman Roy Bute passed peacefully surrounded by family on Sunday, April 30, 2023.

Norman was born to Ethel and Roy Bute on May 2, 1936, in Jackson, Minnesota, and raised on the family farm.

Norm graduated from Jackson High School in 1954 and served in the Army National Guard and the United States Navy.

Norm had many titles in life. He was most proud to be a veteran and serve his country. He loved to fly while in the Navy as an airman electronic technician. He was a mechanic and owned an auto and radiator repair shop in Windom, MN. He moved to Minneapolis and Oklahoma, where he helped design and patent an auto frame straightening machine. Later, he owned a trucking company traveling cross country, and at age 52, he retired to Randolph, NY, and bought a large farm raising livestock. In Randolph, he served as the commander of the VFW. The last ten years of Norman’s retirement were spent enjoying the warm weather, meeting new friends in Yuma, Arizona, and spending summers in ShowLow, Arizona.

Norm defined unconditional love and never met a stranger. He was a loving son and brother, a wonderful father, an adored grandfather, an uncle, and, to countless others – a treasured friend.

Norman is survived by his younger sister, Connie (Bruce) Langager, of Blaine, MN; his daughter, Sara (Chet Nedwidek) Gordon, of Jupiter, FL; and his son, Gregory Bute, of White Lake, MN. He was Grandpa to Jeffrey, Andrea, Leslie (Sam), Conrad, and Abby. He was a great-grandfather to Addi, Charley, Acen, and Oliver. He was a loving uncle to his nieces and nephews.

Interment Fort Snelling National Cemetery with military honors

Published Jackson County Pilot May 8, 2023

ADR2 Jerald W. Hawkins VP-4 1958 – 1961

Jerald Hawkins flew as the Plane Captain of Crew 4 in 1959/60 and Crew 7 in 1961 and worked in Power Plants.  I have been unable to locate a more detailed obituary or info about his service after VP-4.

Jerald Hawkins

August 9, 1937 – November 13, 2023

Jerald W Hawkins passed away in Hollister, CA, at the age of 86. Private cremation will be followed by private family inurnment.

https://www.blackcoopersander.com/obituary/jerald-hawkins

Donna M. Hawkins

November 21, 1937 – May 29, 2021

Donna Hawkins passed away in San Jose at the age of 83. Private cremation will be followed by private family inurnment.

https://www.blackcoopersander.com/obituary/donna-hawkins

CAPT Mark F. Springer USN (Ret) VP-4 1992 – 1994?

Mark Frederick Springer
Oct. 7, 1967 – Jan. 24, 2023
On Jan. 24, 2023, Captain Mark Springer, USN (Ret) – beloved father, son, brother, and proud Navy Pilot – passed away suddenly following a brief illness at his home at the age of 55.
Mark graduated from Hillsboro High School at 17 and began his U.S. Navy career by joining the Class of 1989 at the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis, Md. While attending USNA, Mark excelled as a member of the Navy Rugby team and earned a Bachelor of Science in Oceanography. After graduation, he entered the Navy’s pilot training program in Pensacola, Fla., and Corpus Christi, Texas, earning Wings of Gold and becoming a P-3 Pilot. Mark’s Navy career took him all over the world, where he was the commanding officer of three stations: VT-35 in Corpus Christi, Texas, Naval Munitions Command- Conus East Division, Yorktown, Va., and the ROTC program at the University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah. Mark retired from active duty in 2018 as a U.S. Navy Captain and continued supporting recruitment.
Upon retiring from the Navy, Mark and his family returned to the Portland, Ore., area, and he returned to the skies and his love of flying by joining FlexJet in 2018. Within the first year, he upgraded to Captain on a Gulfstream 450 and was selected to stand up with an exceptional team within his company. His fellow pilots and cabin crew considered him remarkable and loved working with him.
Mark married Lori Lynn Pekkola in 1998 and was the proud father of Matthew and Hayley. Mark’s greatest joy was spending time with his children and their shared experiences. Hiking, skiing, fishing, traveling, and attending concerts are some lasting memories of their adventures together.
Mark is survived by his mother, Joan Springer-Wellman (Ken); his daughter, Hayley; his son, Matthew (U.S. Coast Guard); his siblings, Karin Springer-Smith (James) and Carole Garner (Mark, Ada, and Will); beloved nephews, nieces and cousins; along with military colleagues and many friends around the world.
He was preceded in death by his father, Hugh Springer, and his grandparents, Robert and Marcia Mackey and Harry and Ruth Springer.
A service and celebration will be held in the future. In place of flowers, please consider contributing to an organization that promotes the outdoors.
Please sign the online guest book at www.oregonlive.com/obits

Published by The Oregonian from Feb. 10 to Feb. 12, 2023.

https://obits.oregonlive.com/us/obituaries/oregon/name/mark-springer-obituary?id=43603418

AFCM Jerry F. Robertson USN (Ret) VP-4 1966 – 1970

Jerry Francis “Robbie” Robertson, 79, passed away peacefully in his home in Flower Mound, Texas, after a lengthy and courageous battle with esophageal cancer.

Robbie was born to Francis Marion Robertson and Thelma Killingsworth on May 12, 1944, in Lubbock, Texas. However, he was raised by his loving stepmother, Lura Lavenia Robertson.

In 1962, after graduating from Grant Union High School in Sacramento, California, Robbie joined the United States Navy, where he attended Recruit Training School in San Diego.

He met the love of his life, Nellie Marie Garcia, while at his first duty station in El Centro, California, at the Naval Parachute Facility. They were married on September 15, 1966, before moving to his next duty station with Patrol Squadron Three-One in Moffett Field, California, where he attended Flight Engineer School and graduated second in his class.

They then moved to Barbers Point, Hawaii, where he was stationed with Patrol Squadron Four from January 1966 to June 1970, serving in Vietnam from 1968-1969. In Hawaii, they welcomed their daughter, Samantha Kay, in February 1967.

In July 1970, he was stationed at the Naval Air Test Center in Patuxent River, Maryland, where the family would reside until April 1975. Robbie and Nellie endured the loss of two sons at birth in 1970 and 1971. In 1972, Robbie adopted Nellie’s son, Arthur Steven, but was his loving father since 1966.

Robbie logged thousands of hours flying the P-3 Orion on many classified missions while serving with Fleet Air Reconnaissance Squadron Two from May 1975-March of 1978 in Rota, Spain.

While living in Dale City, Virginia, he served in the Naval Personnel Program at the Pentagon in Washington, DC.

He took his family back to Texas for his final duty station and worked at the Naval Military Command Center in Dallas from March 1981 to July 1987, where he joined the Navy Fleet Reserve. During this time, he enjoyed taking his jet boat to Lake Lewisville every chance he got.

Robbie retired from the Navy after a successful career as a Master Chief Petty Officer (E-9). While serving, he was recognized for his outstanding service to his country. He was awarded the following awards: Naval Achievement Medal, Meritorious Unit Commendation (3x), Good Conduct Medal (5x), National Defense Service Medal, Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, Vietnam Service Medal (2x), Republic of Vietnam Meritorious Unit Citation (Gallantry Cross Color (3rd Award)) and the Navy Commendation Medal.

Being the hardworking man he was, Robbie began a second career for Lockheed Martin in 1987 in Palmdale, California, where he started flying P-3s. He began testing the planes off the manufacturing line, traveled to Portugal to teach others to fly, and occasionally flew LM executives in the corporate jet. He later relocated to Marietta, Georgia, where he flew test flights of the C-130 aircraft fresh from the production line.

After he retired from Lockheed Martin, he and Nellie moved to Lake Cities, Florida, where he worked as a consultant for Timco Aviation until he retired again in 2009. They then moved to The Villages, Florida, where they embraced and enjoyed full retirement. Robbie and Nellie made countless more friends in the Bonita Springs Neighborhood and especially loved taking multiple cruises every year to various ports with their best friends. He loved to barbecue steaks every Friday night and enjoy a martini (with three olives) on the Lenai, watching the sunset and listening to his favorite, “What a Wonderful World” by Louis Armstrong.

He was preceded in death by parents Francis Marion Robertson, Lura Lavenia Robertson, Thelma Killingsworth Ray; sons Danny Clifford Robertson, Mark Allen Robertson, Arthur Steven Robertson; brother, Johnny Glenn Robertson; and brother-in-law, Jim Simmons.

Robbie is survived by his wife, Nellie Robertson; daughter, Samantha, and son-in-law, Scott Fenner (Flower Mound, TX); daughter-in-law, Charlene Robertson (Colonial Beach, VA); sister-in-law, Darlene Robertson (Decatur, TX); Brother Larry and sister-in-law Joella Robertson (Corinth, TX), Sister Sharon Simmons (Lubbock, TX), Brother Mark Robertson and brother-in-law William “Bill” Justice (Dallas, TX). Grandchildren: Mandy Williams (Frank; Fredericksburg, VA), Cheyenne Weilbacher (Joshua; San Clemente, CA), Jack Dempsey Fenner II (Vermillion, SD), Sheridan Fenner (Spearfish, SD). Great-granddaughters: Aaliyah and Brielle Williams, and great-grandson, Denver James Weilbacher. Nieces and Nephews: John Robertson Jr., Rhonda Climer, Trey and Taylor Robertson, Amy Riley, and Zachary Simmons.

He will be remembered for his hospitality, immense kindness, and generosity to all that entered his home. He was enormously proud of his family and the life he and Nellie built.

Nellie and Samantha invite you to an informal reception to share stories and laughter as we remember and celebrate Robbie’s life on Saturday, June 24, from 1:00-3:00 p.m. at Riverwalk Flats Activity Room (second floor) located at 4650 Long Prairie Road, Flower Mound, Texas.

Robbie will later be buried with full military honors at Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, Virginia.

The family would like to sincerely thank Faith Presbyterian Hospice, specifically Michelle, Rhonda and Tiggy, and Chaplain Tim, for the love, compassion, and kindness they have provided to our family.

https://obituaries.neptunesociety.com/obituaries/plano-tx/jerry-robertson-11334764—
Larry Hames AVCM USN (Ret)
VP-4 1975 – 1978
VP-4 Veterans Assn Database Manager
database@vp4association.com

AWCM Thomas E. Lewis USN (Ret) VP-4 1976 – 1979

Tom worked in Schedules during the 1977 Cubi Point deployment.

Thomas E. Lewis “Tom”, 79, of Orange Park, Florida, born July 2, 1943, in Portsmouth, Ohio peacefully passed away at home on Saturday, April 29, 2023.

He is preceded in death by his devoted wife Tina Lewis, his parents Leo and Jean Lewis of Portsmouth, Ohio, and brother Jerry (Linda) of Columbus, Ohio.

He was an active member of the Friday Night Dance Club and enjoyed playing and hosting Bunco with his friends. He was an active member of the Masonic Lodge and of the Clay County Shrine Club. He could also be found playing golf and working green 15 at the TPC Sawgrass, as he dearly loved the sport.

Tom spent 24 years serving in the United States Navy as an Acoustic System Operator (ASO), where he held the distinction of being the youngest ASO to achieve the rank of Master Chief Petty Officer. He spent 10 years as an Assistant Plant Manager for Maidenform, and 15 years as a Postal Route Mail Carrier.

He is survived by his loving son Matthew (Wanda) Lewis, and his grandchildren, Tristen, Jordan, and Nathan, all of Russellville, Arkansas. Two brothers, Jack Lewis of Landers, California, and Bill Lewis of Palm Springs, California. His sisters and brothers-in-law and many nieces and nephews and great nieces and great-nephews.

Tom will be remembered for his integrity, love for his family and friends, fun spirit, and sense of adventure.

Beloved Husband, Father, Grandfather, Brother, Uncle, Hero, and Friend.

A Memorial Service will be held Monday, May 22, 2023, at 11:00 am in the Broadus-Raines Chapel with Chaplain Samuel Bennett officiating. Tom’s internment services will be held Monday, May 22, 2023, at 2:30 pm at the Jacksonville National Cemetery with full Military Honors.

Please sign the family’s online guestbook at www.broadusraines.com

Arrangements are under the care of Broadus-Raines Funeral Home, 501 Spring St., Green Cove Springs, FL 32043. (904) 284-4000

https://www.jacksonville.com/obituaries/pfla0488185

Shane Cole flew with Crew 11 during the 1990 – 1991 Diego Garcia deployment.

Rodney Shane Cole, age 51, of Obion died Sunday, April 2, 2023. Visitation for friends will be from 5:00 PM until 8:00 PM on Thursday, April 6, and from 11 AM until the hour of service at 2 PM on Friday at the First Baptist Church in Troy. Funeral services will be at 2:00 PM on Friday, April 7 at the church. Dan Huggins will officiate assisted by Rev. Rick Roberts. Burial will follow in Rosehill Cemetery in Obion. Heath Cunningham, Paul Albright, Lance Gray, Thomas Hicks, Corey Heskett, Donnie Walton, Dave Roberson, and Jay Cooley will be pallbearers.

Mr. Cole was born in Union City the son of Janice Mays Wilson of Troy and Donnie (Kim) Cole of Winchester, Tn. He is also survived by a son Tyler Cole of Obion, two sisters Donna Lee (Scott) Northam of Troy and Ashleigh (Brandon) Summers of Sewanee, Tn, one nephew Garrett Northam of Troy, and three nieces Meagan Northam of Troy and Ryleigh and Chesney Summers both of Sewanee, Tn and his girlfriend Reena Shelton of Union City and several aunts and uncles.

He was preceded in death by a son Ryan Shane Cole, his stepfather Jimmy Wilson, his grandparents Ezra and Dorothy Mays, and Carnell, Cordelia, and Bennie Cole.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Wounded Warrior Project, P.O. Box 758516, Topeka, Kansas 66675-8516.

https://www.cryerfuneralhome.com/obituaries/Rodney-Cole-5/#!/Obituary—

Larry HamesAVCM USN (Ret)
VP-4 1975 – 1978VP-4
Veterans Assn Database Manager
database@vp4association.com

I received this sad news from Alex Smith, VP-4 1988 – 1992. 

Rusty was an AD1 serving as Flight Engineer on Crew 11 in 1986, Crew 10 in 1988, and Crew 11 in 1989.  I made the assumption that he retired as an ADC based on a comment on his tribute page. Duane Southerland commented that Russell served as his T-56 Power Plant Division Chief at Barbers Point.

Russell “Rusty” Lee Beatty Jr., age 65, of Shelbina, MO, passed away on Wednesday, March 22, 2023, at his home surrounded by his family.

Rusty was born on September 7, 1957, in Hannibal, MO, the son of Russell Lee Beatty and Carolyn Lois (Perrigo) Garnett. He was united in marriage to Martha Ann Schaefer on January 1, 2000, in Shelbina, MO. She survives.

Rusty is also survived by his two mothers, Carolyn Garnett of Shelbina, MO, and Doris Beatty of Hannibal, MO; children, Bruce Beatty of Shelbina, MO, Brad Beatty (Sara) of Shelbyville, MO, Brent Beatty (Savannah) of Biloxi, MS, Tiffany Parrish (Chris) of Shelbina, MO, Tara Harris of Shelbina, MO, and Joey Parrish (Emmey) of Shelbina, MO; 23 grandchildren; 1 great-grandchild; siblings, Phyllis Rainville (Dan) of Shelbina, MO, Jeff Beatty of Hannibal, MO, and Lori Williams (Tony) of Hannibal, MO; several nieces and nephews; and four special friends, Ronnie Davis, Von Davis, Mike Milner, and Ronnie Ash.

He was preceded in death by his two fathers, Russell Beatty and Dwayne Garnett; one sister, Tonya Ives; one granddaughter, Lily Kinzle; and his dog, Snuggles.

After graduating from North Shelby High School, Rusty served in the United States Navy for 18 years as an aviation mechanic and aviator. He enjoyed working on computers and flying. He always enjoyed spending time and laughing with his family and friends. He especially cherished the time spent with his grandchildren.

The funeral service was held at 11 am, Saturday, March 25, 2023, at the Greening-Eagan-Hayes Funeral Home in Shelbina, MO, followed by burial with full military honors in the Shelbina Cemetery. Visitation will be held from 4 pm to 7 pm on Friday, March 24, 2023, at the funeral home. Memorials may be made to Neighbors Helping Neighbors.

https://www.greeningeaganhayes.com/obituaries/Russell-Rusty-Lee-Beatty-Jr?obId=27552835

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Larry HamesAVCM USN (Ret)
VP-4 1975 – 1978
VP-4 Veterans Assn Database Manager
database@vp4association.com

I received this sad news from Sam Reyes, VP-4 77-78.

Dale passed away on 22 Feb 2023. As per his wishes, he will be cremated and sadly there will be no ceremonies.

LT Dale W. Pocklington USN (Ret) VP-4 76-79 & 88-91

Dale served as an Inflight Technician on Crew 2 during the 1977 deployment to Cubi Point, RP. He left the squadron in 1979 for a tour with the SEALS and returned in 1988 as an Ensign NFO. He served as a Navigator/Communications Officer on Crew 6 and had ground duties in the Human Services Office and later as Ordnance Officer. During the 1990-91 deployment to Diego Garcia, Dale flew with Crew 10. After leaving VP-4, Dale served a tour as Assistant Combat Direction Center Officer on USS Kitty Hawk (CV-63).

https://adamsgreen.com/tribute/details/13235/Dale-Pocklington/obituary.html#content-start

—
Larry Hames
AVCM USN (Ret)
VP-4 1975 – 1978
VP-4 Veterans Assn Database Manager
database@vp4association.com

AMS3 Marcy (Winget) Salm VP-4 1992 – 1995

Marcy Tyne Salm, 49, passed in her Manitowoc home on December 9, 2022, with her beloved family and cat by her side. Marcy’s spirit will live on through her husband Michael Salm; daughter Cassidy (Alex) Pischke; son Dane (Brooke Payette) Levenhagen; parents Ron Winget and Chris (Pete) Komoroski; brother Shad (Jennifer) Winget; in-laws Daniel and Lori Salm; sisters-in-law Heather (Colin) Leynse and Angela Salm; and brother-in-law Jake (Deanna) Salm. Her legacy of compassion will also live on in her dearest nieces and nephews: Sophia Winget; Nolan, Nila, and Nathan Leynse; Landon and Lainey Krcma; and Evelyn and Jonah Salm.

Marcy grew up in the Manitowoc area and upon graduation from Mishicot High School, she enlisted in the United States Navy. She proudly served her country in Operation Desert Storm. Marcy completed her bachelor’s degree from Lakeland University while raising her family. Her children were her source of motivation and drive: she did everything she could in support of them. Marcy married Michael Salm on January 25, 2019, after many years of dating: they were steadfastly by each other’s side through the highest of highs and lowest of lows. Her compassionate spirit was manifested through her volunteer work and her role as Financial Director for Ascend Services of Manitowoc. She was a dedicated member of St. Francis of Assisi Parish in Manitowoc.

Marcy was a nature enthusiast and loved spending time outdoors: whether it be working tirelessly in her gardens, going for nature walks, or wandering the local Ice Age Trail. She also loved staying in and taking on new hobbies, crafts, or even learning to play cribbage with her husband.

Her fight against ovarian cancer was short but a long battle, but Marcy courageously fought through surgeries, chemotherapy, and a clinical trial at the Mayo Clinic. Her family is forever grateful to her care team and the local community for their unwavering support. Special thanks to all her doctors, nurses, care teams, and especially the Aurora Hospice Care team. The family is also grateful to Patti Finlan and her team that organized Marcy’s recent fundraiser as well as all of the donors and participants of the fundraiser, particularly Pink Heals of Manitowoc County and residents of the Woodridge and Stoneybrook neighborhoods.

Memorial services will be held at 12 p.m. on Monday, December 19, 2022, at the Harrigan Parkside Funeral Home. Officiating will be Rev. Jason Blahnik. Relatives and friends may call at the Harrigan Parkside Funeral Home on Monday from 10 a.m. until the time of services at 12 p.m. Military honors will follow at the funeral home by the Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter #731. A reception will be held at the Harrigan Parkside Gathering Center following the military honors.

“The universe is in your bones, the stars in your soul. It’s never really the end.”

The Harrigan Parkside Funeral Home and Crematory, North 11th and St. Clair streets, Manitowoc, is assisting the family with funeral arrangements.

To send a flower arrangement or to plant trees in memory of

Marcy Tyne Salm, please click here to visit our Sympathy Store.

Published by Harrigan Parkside Funeral Home and Crematory – Manitowoc on Dec. 13, 2022.

https://www.harriganparksidefuneralhome.com/obituary/marcy-salm—
Larry HamesAVCM USN (Ret)
VP-4 1975 – 1978
VP-4 Veterans Assn Database Manager
database@vp4association.com

Wallace Eichelberg served as an HM2 in VP-4.

Wallace Christian Eichelberg Bluffton, SC – Commander Wallace “Wally” C. Eichelberg USN Ret. (79), passed away peacefully at the VA Victory House in Walterboro, SC on August 29, 2021. Wally waged a long, courageous battle with vascular dementia. Cdr. Eichelberg was born on May 30, 1942, to Oscar and Virginia Eichelberg in Britton, South Dakota. After completing his freshman year at MIT, he joined the Navy, serving 26.5 years. While serving, he completed a BS degree in Healthcare Administration from Georgetown University. He served on the USS Midway (CVA_41) as a hospital corpsman at the beginning of the Vietnam War until the fall of Saigon, then as a Medical Administrative Officer. After multiple assignments at sea, he served as Deputy Comptroller at the National Naval Medical Center, Bethesda, MD, and finally as System Analyst for the Navy Bureau of Medicine and Surgery, Washington, DC. During his years of service, he received numerous personal US medals and decorations, including a Bronze Star, Meritorious Service Medal, and National Defense Service Medal while “seeing the world”. Commander Eichelberg enjoyed many foreign ports of call during his time at sea. Throughout his life, he lived in Fredrick, SD; Oakland, CA; New York, NY; Corpus Christi, TX; Millington, TN; Bethesda, MD; Durwood, MD; and Bluffton, SC. A man of many interests, he enjoyed singing (Barbershop Quartet, St. Gregory the Great Catholic Church Choir, Hilton Head Corral Society, Sun City Chorus), family genealogy, any card game, and reading. He was also active in the Springhill Homeowner Association. Never one to mince words, Wally had a style all his own and a generous heart. He was a devout Catholic. with a quick wit and a beautiful tenor voice. He possessed a life-long quest for learning, especially about history. Above all else, he loved his wife Jane and all his family. Commander Eichelberg is survived by his wife of 29 years, Jane Passarello Eichelberg of Bluffton, SC. His Brothers, Russell Eichelberg of Omaha, NE, and Randall Eichelberg (Teri) of Yankton, SD. His nephews, Ryan Eichelberg Vermillion, SD, Mason Eichelberg (Breanna) of Brandon, SD, and Devin Eichelberg of Yankton, SD, and niece, Natalie Eichelberg Chick (Trevor) of Lakeville, MN. His father-in-law, Charles Passarello of Hanahan, SC. His in-laws: Carolyn ‘Berta’ Fetzer (Carl) of Vero Beach, FL; Pamela Kammerer (George) of North Charleston, SC; Tony Passarello (Jean) of Sandy Springs, GA and Mike Passarello (Ruth) of Summerville, SC. His nephews, Michael Passarello (Kelly) of Tubull, TX; Drew Passarello of Beaufort, SC; Nick Passarello (Emily) of Decatur, GA; Matthew Passarello of Cabbage Town, GA; Chris Fultz of Charleston, SC; Sean Kammerer of North Charleston, SC and nieces, Brenda Glidden (Alvin) of West Wardsworth, VT; Lindsey Biggins (Chris) of Park Ridge, IL; Elena Passarello-Turkel (David) of Corvallis, OR; and 5 grandnieces and 7 grandnephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Oscar and Virginia Eichelberg, and his mother-in-law, Carolyn Passarello of Charleston, SC. A visitation will be held from 11:00 am until 12:00 pm on Friday, September 3rd at Carolina Memorial Park, 7113 Rivers Avenue, North Charleston, SC 29406. A Celebration of Life Ceremony will follow immediately in the chapel at 12:00 pm with an interment after the ceremony. The family wishes to express their deep gratitude to the nurses and staff of the VA Victory House and Patriot Hospice, Walterboro, SC, for their compassionate care. Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared and viewed at www.CarolinaMemorial.com. Visit our guestbook at legacy.com/obituaries/charleston

Published by Charleston Post & Courier from Sep. 1 to Sep. 2, 2021.

https://www.dignitymemorial.com/obituaries/north-charleston-sc/wallace-eichelberg-10328814—
Larry HamesAVCM USN (Ret)
VP-4 1975 – 1978
VP-4 Veterans Assn Database Manager