Author Archives: Larry Hames

Howard “Rex” Lincoln, 69, of Las Vegas, passed away Oct. 8, 2012. The eldest of two sons, he was born Oct. 4, 1943, in Winfield, Kan., to Marcella and Weldon Lincoln. He was preceded in death by his mother. Rex served in the U.S. Navy for 31 years, retiring as command master chief of the USS Abraham Lincoln. While in the U.S. Navy, he lived all over the country, as well as in Italy, leaving an indelible mark on everyone he met. He spent the last 10 years in Las Vegas. He is survived by his father, Weldon “Abe” Lincoln of Las Vegas; his wife, of 35 years, Suzanna Lincoln; sons, Joshua Lincoln of Las Vegas, and Thomas Lincoln of New York City; brother, Weldon “Linc” Lincoln (Cindy) of Ione, Calif.; as well as numerous nieces and nephews; and extended family whom he loved. His many friends and family will all miss his wit, humor and keen intellect. He’s gone too soon. There will be a private family service and Naval burial at sea.

While serving in VP-4, Rex was an ADJ1 flying as a Flight Engineer on Crew 11 on the 1967 deployment and on Crew 2 during the 68-69 deployment.
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Larry Hames
VP-4 1975 – 1978
VP-4 Veterans Assn Database Manager

Stephen Melnick(February 05, 1948 – December 27, 2014), 66, of Port Richey, Florida, died December 27, 2014.

He was a US Navy, Viet Nam Veteran and is survived by his companion, Lorraine; sons, Peter and Rob; brothers, Bruce, Peter; sister, Rita Ventura; and 8 grandchildren.
While assigned to VP-4, Stephen, known to his friends as “Toad”, flew as Ordnanceman on Crew 5.
Visitation was on Friday, January 2, 2015 from 5:00 to 8:00 pm. There was a service at 7:00 pm at the funeral home.
Condolences may be posted at http://www.prevattfuneralhome.com/obit.php
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Larry Hames
VP-4 1975 – 1978
VP-4 Veterans Assn Database Manager

I received the sad news yesterday that another VP-4 Vet has passed away.

Howard J. Krogh died at St. David’s South Austin Medical Center on
August 20, 2014, after a brief illness. He was born to Howard P. and Hazel J. Krogh in Kennewick, Washington, on June 19, 1923. After his parents divorced when he was 4, Howard and his sister were raised by their father in Omak, Washington, and his two brothers went to live with their mother.

Howard worked as a dairy hand in Omak before joining the US Navy in February 1941. He served his country during World War II and the Korean War and was awarded several good conduct medals. It was in the navy that he learned to identify any ocean based on its color and chop, a skill he was quick to remind folks of.

Although described by his commanding officer in 1959 as “an excellent leader, firm in decision, and yet considerate and understanding,” Howard was perhaps best known for his sense of humor. He was a witty joker who sent original, and sometimes ribald, poetry to his appreciative siblings and friends.

Howard retired from active duty in 1960 as an Aviation Ordnanceman First Class. He spent the next 27 years employed by Lockheed Missiles and Space Company, Inc., first in Sunnyvale, California, and later in Austin, Texas. Howard was a skilled bowler, carpenter, and fisherman. During his California days, he enjoyed time spent with good friends at Lake McClure, especially when it involved his beloved Boston Whaler.

Howard and the love of his life, Julia Bell, married in Las Vegas, Nevada, in 1949. They spent the next 65 years together, mainly residing in Austin, Texas.

Howard was preceded in death by his parents, brothers Roy Krogh and Glen Krogh, sister Blanche (Krogh) Hastings, and nephew Steve Krogh. He is survived by his wife Julia Krogh, daughter Holly Krogh and her husband Ross Whitwam, grandkids Lucy Whitwam and Henrietta Krogh, as well as several nieces and a nephew. His family feels fortunate that before his death Howard had the opportunity to reconnect with his nieces Sharon (Krogh) Pearson and Judie (Hastings) Doonan. The family also appreciates the care provided by the wonderful staff at Querencia Barton Creek during his short residency there.

A Memorial Service will be held in the Chapel at Querencia Barton Creek on Saturday, October 11, 2014, at 2:00 P.M.
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Larry Hames
VP-4 1975 – 1978
VP-4 Veterans Assn Database Manager

Lt. Cmdr. William S. Batey, 93, passed away July 4, 2014; quick with a joke, quick with a smile. Bill Batey was born August 9, 1920 in Lewis, Delaware. He served our country proudly in both World War II and The Korean Conflict. While serving in the Pacific, his supervisors gave their difficult students to Bill, teaching them how to fly from aircraft carriers.
While teaching them he found out two things about himself, the first, was the naval officer’s lack of math expertise needed, and second, that he was both good at teaching and enjoyed teaching others. This began his second career.
After retiring from the Navy, he went back to the University of Texas earning his teaching credentials and began teaching math to middle school students. He kept teaching on & on. In fact, he was ‘Educator of the Year’ in 1991-1992.
Bill finally retired at the age of 81 years young. He left a positive imprint those who came in contact with him and on those he taught.
May Bill rest in peace with his wife, Jane and daughter, Barbara.
Family links:
Spouse:
Mary Jane Batey (1923 – 2006)
Children:
Barbara Anne Batey Chakales (1944 – 2011)*

CAPT Engelbert G. Pezzei USN (Ret) passed away in early June 2014. His daughter, Alice Tanita, told me that there is no additional info and an obituary was not published.

He was a LCDR and PPC of crew 5 while he served in VP-4 fron 1962 to 1964. He graduated from the School of Naval Warfare at the Naval War College in June of 1967. His later tours included duty as the Navigation Officer aboard USS Forrestal CVA-59 and as SECURITY/ADMIN OFFICER on the staff of GEN A.M. HAIG, JR., US ARMY SUPREME ALLIED COMMANDER EUROPE. CAPT Pezzei retired 1 Sept 1975.

Photos are from VP-4 1962 Cruise Book and CVA-59 1971 Cruise book.

Gary Wilcox, 75, of Oakland, died May 23, 2014, at his residence.

He was the son of the late Roy and Gladys Lichty Wilcox and a veteran of the U.S. Navy. He served as an AT3 in VP-4 from 1957 to 1962.

He was preceded in death by his brothers, John and Roy Michael.

Mr. Wilcox is survived by his wife, Geraldine “Jerri” Wilcox; his daughter, Suzanne (Jeff) of Lewisburg, Tenn.; his sister, Arlene Davis, Dallas, Texas; two grandchildren, Heidi and Valin; and many nieces, nephews and in-laws.

Visitation for Mr. Gary Wilcox will be from 4 to 7 p.m. Saturday at Cone Funeral Home, with the funeral service at 7 p.m. in the chapel of the funeral home. The family has chosen cremation.

While searching for VP-4 vets to notify about our upcoming reunion, I ran across this sad news. I have not found an obituary or contact info for any family members.

I had Bob in our database but have no info about his Rank/ rating or duties in the squadron.  If anyone remembers him, please send any info you have about him.

Robert (Bob) V. Thomas, 92, of Yuba City, CA, passed away on May 11, 2014. Arrangements are under the direction of Ullrey Memorial Chapel, Inc., (530) 673-9542.

His wife, Barbara L. Thomas, 76 of Yuba City passed away December 19, 2013.

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Larry Hames
VP-4 1975 – 1978
VP-4 Veterans Assn Database Manager
database@vp4association.com

Ronald R. Swanson passed away April 8, 2014. Ron was born in Tacoma, Washington July 30, 1926 to Fred and Helen Swanson. Ron had one brother Carl who preceded him in death. Ron was a career Navy man who enlisted at the age of 17 in 1943. Ron earned his Combat Air Crewman wings and was assigned to a torpedo squad where he served throughout the war. Serving in WWII, Korea and Vietnam he earned his commission as Ensign and retired as a Lt. Commander. Ron served on the East and West coasts, Asiatic and Mediterranean fleets. In Ron’s retirement he enjoyed his home with his lovely wife Belva and beloved dog Ole. Ron was an avid gardener and a graduate Master Gardener. He enjoyed his greenhouse, yard and large garden sharing his “bounty” with friends and neighbors. For several years he operated a “freebie” veggie stand meeting and greeting all who stopped by. Ron also loved wood working in his shop. Ron is survived by his wife Belva, dog Ole, daughter Sandy (Steve) Davenport, son Ron (Cel) Jr. of Florida, 3 grandchildren and several great grandchildren. The family wants to thank Avamere Bellingham Health and Rehabilitation for their wonderful care. At Ron’s request there will not be a service.

Published in Bellingham Herald on Apr. 20, 2014

CW04 Kent Harold Gunn USN Ret. 75 of Covington passed away 2/18/2014 and is now with our Lord. A service celebrating his life will be held at Bethel Christian Church in Conyers on March 23rd 2014 at 2:00pm.

Kent was born and raised in Monroe. He was a Graduate of Monroe High School Class of 56, University of West Florida Batchelor of Science 1974. Kent proudly served his country for thirty years in the US Navy as a Naval Flight Officer. He Owned and Operated Gunn Brothers Truss Company of Covington from 1987 to 2003.

Kent was preceded in Death by Jessie Harold Gunn (father), Gladys Virginia McClure (Mother) He is Survived by Rick and Robin Haynes (daughter) of Conyers, Michael Kent Gunn (son) of Conyers, Alvin and Robin Gunn (brother) of Covington, James and Joyce Gunn of Rutlege (brother), Grand Daughters Megan Brown, Shannacy Morton and Jada Gunn. Great Grand Daughter Keiley Morton. In Lieu of flowers family request donations to Bethel Christian Church. 1930 Bethel Rd. NE Conyers, GA 30012.

Condolence cards may be sent to his son, Michael, who has posted several pictures of “Gunner” on the VP-4 Veterans Association on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/groups/VP4Vets/

Mr. Michael K. Gunn

2725 Westminister Ln.

Conyers, Ga. 30012

Melvyn “Mel” Maxwell Brown passed away December 4, 2013 in Carlsbad, CA. He was born in Lanty, Arkansas on January 7, 1921. Mel was a veteran of World War II, Korea and Vietnam. He retired from the Navy after 27 years as a Commander, USN, Pilot. After retiring from the Navy, he was a real estate broker in San Diego County for over 20 years. Mel is survived by Ruth, his wife of 58 years; and his two children, Nancy Cook and family of Redwood City, CA and Ken Brown and family of Carlsbad, CA. Two grandchildren, Amy Buckley of Richland, MI, and Eric Brown of Oceanside, CA, also survive him. The memorial service will be at 11a.m. on December 17 at Miramar National Cemetery with full military honors.

Published in U-T San Diego on Dec. 15, 2013

Memorial Services were Saturday at the George Belton Chapel, for retired Navy Cmdr. Albert LeRoy Dodson, 76, Raymore, who died April 29, 1992, at Research Belton Hospital.

Dodson was born in Cleveland and returned to this area in 1967. He served in the Navy from 1939 to 1967 and held five commands. He was a test and patrol pilot in World War II. He was a real estate broker for Kroh Brothers.

He attended Central Methodist College, Fayette, MO., and the Naval War College and the Naval Postgraduate School. He received the National Defense Service Medal, the American Defense Service Medal, the Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal, the American Campaign Medal and the Philipine Liberation Ribbon. He was past president of the Belton Historical Society and the Heart of America chapter of the Retired Officers Association. He was a member of the Navy League, the Quiet Birdmen, the Military Order of the World Wars, the Pearl Harbor Survivors Association, the Association of Naval Aviation, the U.S. Naval Institute, the Disabled American Veterans, the American Meteorological Society and the Harry S. Truman chapter of the Sons of the American Revolution. He was a former board member of the Westport Historical Society. He was a Mason and a member of Ararat Shrine. He was a member of St. Paul’s United Methodist Church, Raymore.

Survivors include his wife, Jane E. Dodson of the home; three sons, James L. Dodson, Lancaster, Calif., William B. Dodson, Ormond Beach, Fla., and Joseph G. Dodson, La Crescent, Minn.; a sister, Marie Curnett, Raymore; and nine grandchildren.

Burial with military honors will be in the Belton Cemetery. The family suggests contributions to the Belton Historical Society or the church.

 AUGUSTA, Ga. – David Terrill Pitts, Sr., beloved husband of Susan B. Pitts, entered into rest July 2, 2013, and in exultation: For I know whom I have believed, and am persuaded that he is able to keep that which I have committed unto him against that day. Friends are invited to call at the home July 18th, between the hours of 5:00 and 7:00 PM, for a celebration of David’s life. A private family gathering will be held at the Pitts home the morning of July 19th under the leadership of Rev. Alan Smith, Associate Pastor, Aldersgate United Methodist Church. Known early on as Skipper, and later as Davey, his youth was spent in a happy, competitive, and seemingly unwashed pursuit of fun, sports and adventure. He and his brother Petey were deprived of nothing since their parents had nothing, nothing material, but an abundance of love, and a concerted quest for excellence in education, more than made up for it. In addition to his wife of 33 years, other survivors are sons: LTC David Terrill Pitts, Ret. (Melissa), Augusta, GA; Rowland Whitney Pitts (Ryma), Bristow, VA; LTC Esli Terrill Pitts (Faith), Ft. Hood, TX; and daughter, Sarah R. Pitts, Augusta, GA; grandchildren: Chelsie of Auburn, WA; Sean and Kellie of Augusta, GA; Jessica and Angel, of Bristow, VA; Ashley and Alyssa, Ft. Hood, TX, Kelly and Veronica of Everett, WA; great-grandchildren: Lucas and Blaine; sister-in-law, Jocelyn Milner Pitts, Pasadena, CA, and nephews: Dr. Andrew Pitts (Sara), Dover, DE and Jonathan Pitts (Jiho), Baltimore, MD; niece, Amy Pitts Buckner (Matthew), Pasadena, CA; great-nephews: Will and Hank; and great-niece: Johanna. Also survived by special furry friend, Butch, and special family friend, Wesley T. Pearson (daughter’s companion). He was preceded in death by parents: Ferris Newcomb and Florence Austin Morris Pitts of Webster Groves, MO; brother: Dr. Ferris N. (Pete) Pitts, Jr. of Pasadena, CA; and former wife, Mary Ann Barden Pitts of Oak Harbor, WA; and son, Thomas Barden Pitts (Tanya), of Everett, WA. After graduating from Maplewood-Richmond Heights High School in Maplewood, MO, he received a full scholarship to attend Miami University in Oxford, Ohio where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree with majors in English and Naval Science. He later earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Maryland and a Master of Science degree from the University of South Carolina where he enjoyed a year’s attendance with his wife. Upon completion of flight training at Pensacola, FL, he was designated a Naval Aviator and he experienced a variety of squadron assignments culminating in duties as a fighter pilot, primarily flying his favorite aircraft, the McDonnell-Douglass F-4 Phantom II. He was interested in aviation safety and completed a twenty-six year career without accident or injury, which led to a job as acceptance test pilot at the Rockwell International production facility at Columbus, OH. David and Susan were married in Stuttgart-Vaihingen, Germany. After arriving in Augusta, David became the Naval Science Instructor at both Westside and Glenn Hills High Schools, and the couple found a wonderful community of loving friends through their church home: Aldersgate United Methodist. Once both became librarians, David and Susan were affiliated with several local libraries. Their primary pursuit was Christian mission work, and their greatest achievement will always remain putting down family roots in their adopted hometown, Augusta, GA. Loving thanks and recognition to the following individuals and organizations for their unmatched professional care: Dr. Nasha Nayak and staff of the Georgia Health Sciences Cancer Center; Dr. Roger Fincher, Gastroenterology Dept., and Dr. Derek Baudoin, Family Care Center, Dwight D. Eisenhower Army Medical Center. Thanks and appreciation also to Augusta Chapter, Military Order of the World Wars, of which David was a founding member; Magnolia Garden Club; College Hill Chapter, DAR; Susannah Wesley Circle, Good News Gospel Choir, Leigh Cupp, the Youth Group under Shelly Martin, and the rest of our church family at Aldersgate. In lieu of flowers, please consider a contribution to Military Missions, Aldersgate U.M.C., 3185 Wheeler Road, Augusta, GA 30909.

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Larry Scott, who served as an AK-3 in VP-4 from 1961-62, sent me a note about a 1959-1960 VP-4 Cruise Book available for purchase on Ebay.  He queried the seller about the source of the book and was told that it came from the estate of Quinten T. Starren who served in the US Navy from 1942 to 1972.

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During his tour in VP-4, Gary served as Radio Operator or 1st Tech on Crew 12 and Crew 5.  After his time in the Navy, Gary went to work for the FAA and retired from there.

Gary was born in Nov 1944 and passed away on 15 May 2013. He thought he had food poisoning, however it was his appendix.  He did not go to the hospital in time and it ruptured. They couldn’t fight the infection.

It was all very sudden and quick!!

His funeral is on June 27,2013 @ 11 AM At Willamette National Cemetery  in Portland, Oregon.

Condolence cards can be sent to:

Trevan & Jill Nelson

335 S. 7th St.

Saint Helens, OR 97051

Darrell Dee Stubbs, 55 of Lexington Park, MD, was greeted at the Gates of Heaven on June 15, 2013. He was the son of the late John and Irene Stubbs, born on April 5, 1958 in Fairmont, West Virginia. At nineteen years old, Darrell joined the U.S. Navy where he served his country for twenty years and at retirement was ranked a 1st Class Aviation Store Keeper. During his Naval career, he was awarded the following medals: Navy and Marine Corps Achievement, Good Conduct, National Defense, Southwest Asia and two Expeditionary. While stationed in Lexington Park, MD, Darrell met the love of his life, Cecelia (Darlene) Woodland and the two married on Christmas Eve in 1986. In his spare time, Darrell enjoyed playing bid whist and was an avid Dallas Cowboys fan. He also loved listening to the oldies but goodies and sharing his favorite meal of spaghetti with his granddaughter. He was preceded in death by his parents and a long-time friend, Vernon Coates. Darrell is survived by his wife, Cecelia; his daughter, Tesha Stubbs; two sons, Darrell Stubbs II and Dominic Pendleton, seven grandchildren, three sisters, Margaret Holman, Genevieve (Gary) Freed and Carolyn Stubbs; four brothers, John (Martha) Stubbs, Robert (Beverly) Stubbs, Videll (Sandra) Stubbs and Julian (Mildred) Stubbs; in laws, Joseph and Thelma Woodland; brothers-in-law, Joseph “Al” Woodland and David Woodland; one sister-in-law, Ellen (Daryl) Bogier; a special friend, Jackie Butler and a host of other relatives and friends. Family will unite with friends on Wednesday, June 19, 2013 for visitation from 3:30 p.m. until time of service at 5:00 p.m. at Briscoe-Tonic Funeral Home, 38576 Brett Way, Mechanicsville, MD. Interment will be private.