USS Little Rock CL92 CLG4 Recent Crew Deaths and Obituaries

Recent Notices
of
Deceased Shipmates

The Association has recently been advised of the passing on of the following Shipmates

Page last updated: 31 May 2013

Names and information listed below have been furnished to the Association by others.
The information is deemed to be creditable, however the accuracy of the data is not guaranteed.

Obituaries, when available, are posted for informational purposes only, and will remain
posted for approximately one (1) year after receipt of notification of the shipmate's passing.

* Individuals are listed by Date of Death.

* Obituaries are listed Alphabetically

INDIVIDUALS (Listed by date of death)
Name	Ship	Year(s)	Date of Death	Obit?
Johnson, David A. (XO)	CLG 4	61-62	Nov. 19, 1998	Yes
Berg, Vernon	CLG 4	1975	Jan. 27, 1999	No
Peavy, Luther	CL 92	40's	Mar. 02, 2000	No
Hise, Thomas C.	CL 92	45-46	Dec, 13, 2000	No
McDowell, David E.	CL 92	40's	Jun. 02, 2003	Yes
Bennett, William L.	CL 92	40's	Aug. 20, 2003	Yes
Hren, Frank S.	CL 92	40's	Feb. 04, 2004	Yes
Pipilo, Joseph A.	CL 92	46-48	Feb. 15, 2004	Yes
Bordieri, Anthony J.	CLG 4	60's	Mar. 1, 2005	Yes
Fox, Emanuel	CL 92	45-48	Dec. 04, 2005	Yes
Jorolemon, Richard M.	CLG 4	1970	Mar. 13, 2006	Yes
Amacker, Forrest E. Jr.	CL 92	46-49	Nov. 22, 2007	No
Hinckley, Ronald B.	CLG 4	60's	Dec 11, 2007	Yes
Toomey, Martin J., Jr.	CL 92	45-46	Apr. 16, 2008	Yes
Cook, John III	CLG 4	70's	Jun. 16, 2008	Yes
Stone, Ernest R., Jr.	CLG 4	60's	Aug. 24, 2008	Yes
Thomas, Julian J., Jr.	CLG 4	61-63	Oct. 15, 2008	Yes
Fahlenkamp, Donald H.	CL 92	40's	Feb. 26, 2009	Yes
Fields, George W.	CLG 4	45-46	Mar. 01, 2009	Yes
Thompson, Benford C.	CLG 4	61-65	May 5, 2009	Yes
Otto, Albert J. (Chaplain)	CLG 4	62-63	May 22, 2009	Yes
Lapinski, Joseph A.	CL 92	45-46	Sep. 21, 2009	Yes
Knepp, Charles	CLG 4	60's	Nov. 28, 2009	Yes
Lineberger, Ernest R.	CLG 4	67-68	Dec. 02, 2009	Yes
Silloway, Richard F.	CLG 4	60-61	Jan. 8, 2010	Yes
Layer, Richard M.	CL 92	40's	Jan. 14, 2010	Yes
Skidmore, Russell A.	CLG 4	1960's	Jan. 25, 2010	No
Sherman, Eston L. Jr.	CL 92	46-48	Feb. 04, 2010	No
Driscoll, Richard E.	CL 92	46-48	Mar. 05, 2010	No
McClain, James G.	CL 92	45-47	Apr. 17, 2010	No
Guido, Pasquale	CLG 4	68-71	Apr. 22, 2010	Yes
Greer, Johnny L.	CLG 4	59-63	May 15, 2010	No
Messich, George	CL 92	44-46	Jul. 05, 2010	Yes
Lesso, Francis A.	CLG 4	70's	Jul. 16, 2010	Yes
Mancuso, Joseph J.	CLG 4	60's	Aug. 04, 2010	Yes
Hight, Milton A.	CL 92	47-49	Aug. 24, 2010	No
Deck, Ronald	CLG 4	60's	Sep. 09, 2010	No
Babb, Dewey E.	CLG 4	60-62	Sep. 21, 2010	No
Okon, Michael	CL 92	46-47	Sep. 24, 2010	No
Sturgill, Charles A.	CLG 4	63-67	Sep. 26, 2010	No
Revitzer, Kirk D.	CLG 4	69-71	Sep. 30, 2010	Yes
Bartell, Richard G.	CL 92	46-47	Oct. 12, 2010	No
Haskell, Henry B.	CL 92	1945	Oct. 22, 2010	No
Morgan, H. Hayden	CLG 4	67-68	Nov. 11, 2010	No
Rumbaugh, Robert C.	CL 92	1945	Nov. 14, 2010	Yes
Dawkins, "D", Dennis W.	CLG 4	75-76	Mar. 01, 2011	No
DeCosta, Paul A.	CL 92	46-47	Mar. 21, 2011	Yes
Moore, Withers M.	CLG 4	60's	Mar. 23, 2011	Yes
Nelson, John	CLG 4	60's	Apr. 04, 2011	Yes
Willemin, Richard J.	CL 92	40's	Apr. 05, 2011	Yes
Wilson, Ronald L.	CLG 4	60's	May 03, 2011	Yes
Smith, John W.	CLG 4	60's	May 21, 2011	Yes
Ritchey, George W.	CLG 4	68-70	May 26, 2011	No
Fisher, Gary C.	CLG 4	71-73	Jun. 07, 2011	Yes
Acker, Charles David	CLG4	66-69	Jun. 17, 2011	No
Changes, Michael G.	CL 92	47-49	Jun. 18, 2011	No
Oxley, Clarence T.	CL 92	45-46	Jul. 24, 2011	Yes
Lab, Richard L.	CL 92	44-46	Jul. 28, 2011	Yes
Ulanoski, Joseph P.	CLG 4	60's	Jul. 31, 2011	Yes
Sepcich, Brian J.	CLG 4	75-76	Aug. 09, 2011	No
Sheppard, John R.	CLG 4	61-64	Aug. 08, 2011	Yes
Pieropan, Antonio W.	CL 92	47-48	Sep. 08, 2011	Yes
Quercio, Dante J.	CL 92	40's	Oct. 28, 2011	Yes
Taaffe, Philip G.	CL 92	45-46	Nov. 28, 2011	Yes
Monks, Leonard	CL 92	46-48	Dec. 05, 2011	Yes
Maloney, Philip T.	CL 92	45-46	Dec. 16, 2011	Yes
Patulak, Richard J.	CLG 4	60's	Dec. 22, 2011	Yes
McDowell, Willie B.	CLG 4	1964	Dec. 26, 2011	Yes
Libera, John J.	CLG 4	68-69	Dec. 29, 2011	No
Palmer, Kenneth S.	CL 92	40's	Jan. 23, 2012	Yes
Pingrin, Paul R.	CLG 4	62-65	Mar. 21, 2012	Yes
Rusby, Paul G.	CL 92	1945	Apr. 01, 2012	Yes
Koepke, Kenneth W.	CL 92	46-48	Apr. 13, 2012	Yes
Marinozzi, Lawrence R.	CL 92	45-46	Apr. 13, 2012	No
Rozier, Charles P.	CLG 4	60-61	Apr. 15, 2012	Yes
Lavoie, Roland E.	CL 92	45-46	Apr. 17, 2012	Yes
Cullins, Peter K (CO)	CLG 4	73-75	May 03, 2012	Yes
Kelly, Paul E.	CL 92	40's	May 20, 2012	Yes
Mozdziez, Henry J. Jr.	CLG 4	70's	May 22, 2012	Yes
Roth, Raymond	CLG 4	70-74	Jul. 12, 2012	Yes
Holmes, David R.	CLG 4	61-66	Jul. 16, 2012	Yes
Collins, Russell F.	CLG4	60-62	Jul. 20, 2012	No
Patzwahl, Donald H.	CL 92	46-48	Jul. 23, 2012	Yes
Greening, Billy R.	CLG 4	1960	Aug. 09, 2012	Yes
Whittington, Patrick D.	CLG 4	75-76	Sep. 08, 2012	Yes
Jones, Robert P.	CLG 4	71-72	Sep. 09, 2012	Yes
Wagner, Lawrence P.	CLG 4	59-61	Sep. 10, 2012	Yes
Ruehle, Richard W.	CL 92	40's	Sep. 15, 2012	Yes
Sebastian, Joseph E.	CLG 4	1960	Sep. 18, 2012	Yes
Ross, Lewis N.	CL 92	45-46	Sep. 26, 2012	Yes
Phelps, Wayne G.	CLG 4	71-73	Oct. 21, 2012	Yes
Girard, Charles E. Jr.	CLG 4	62-65	Oct. 23, 2012	Yes
Garcia, John D.	CLG 4	66-68	Oct. 29, 2012	Yes
Marnock, Marvin J.	CL 92	40's	Nov. 8, 2012	Yes
Kostrivas, Terrence	CLG 4	67-70	Dec. 12, 2012	Yes
Rusch, Carl G.	CL 92	40's	Dec. 15, 2012	Yes
Vaitiskis, Charles F.	CLG 4	61-62	Dec. 25, 2012	Yes
Dick, Malcolm S.	CL 92	47-48	Dec. 26, 2012	No
Noble, Henry R.	CL 92	40's	Jan. 2, 2013	Yes
Breslin, John E.	CL 92	45-46	Jan. 10, 2013	Yes
Clendenin, William A.	CLG 4	60-61	Jan. 19, 2013	Yes
Gary T. Lantz	CLG 4	63-64	Jan. 30, 2013	Yes
O'Connor, James A.	CL 92	40's	Jan. 31, 2013	Yes
Zeitler, Jacob G.	CLG 4	60's	Feb. 25, 2013	Yes
Bellew, Darrell E.	CLG 4	73-75	Mar. 25, 2013	No
Mason, Albert T.	CL 92	45-46	Mar. 23, 2013	Yes

OBITUARIES
(Listed alphabetically)

Bellew, Darrell

(March, 2013)

Obituary Pending

(Posted on Little Rock website 29 Mar 2013)

Bennett, William L.

(November 20, 1926 - August 20, 2003)

William Lee "Bill" Bennett, 76, of Yadkinville, formerly of Old Town, died August 20, 2003 at Forsyth Medical Center.

He was born November 20, 1926, in Forsyth County to Walter Lee and Irene Darnell Bennett. He was retired from Hanes Hosiery, a division of Sara Lee Corp., with 43 1/2 years of service. He was of the Baptist faith and was a veteran of World War II, serving with the U.S. Navy on the USS Little Rock.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Irene Starling; his father, Walter Bennett; and his stepfather, Wilbert Starling.

Surviving are his wife of 47 years, Betty Davis Bennett of the home; three children, Mitzi B. Griffin of Pfafftown, Gerri D. Bennett of Yadkinville and Jeffery L. Bennett of Winston-Salem; a grandson, Peyton L. Bennett; a brother, Leon W. Starling and wife Micky of Winston-Salem; and nephews Seth and John Starling.

A family graveside service was held at Forbush Baptist Church Cemetery with Rev. Bill Hale officiating.

(Posted on Little Rock website 11 Mar 2013)

Bordieri, Anthony J.
( February 28, 1948 - (March 1, 2005)

Anthony J. "Tony" Bordieri, 57, of South Windsor, beloved husband of Constance (Adams) Bordieri for 27 years, died on Tuesday (March 1, 2005).

He was born February 28, 1948 the son of the late Angelo A. and Mary Teresa (Graci) Bordieri and lived in South Windsor most of his life. He was a Navy Veteran serving aboard the U.S.S. Little Rock during Vietnam. He worked in management positions at various retail companies including Mammoth Mart, Zayre, T J Maxx, Ames and Family Dollar Stores. Tony enjoyed golfing, painting and was a loyal and enthusiastic fan of the New York Yankees, New York Giants and UCONN Huskies basketball teams.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by his daughter Kristina and his two sons Andrew and his partner Kelley Stevens and Corey, all of South Windsor; granddaughter Autumn Rose, the apple of his eye; sister Laura Bordieri of Wethersfield and many cousins, nieces and nephews. He is also survived by his in-laws, Cay and Ernie Adams of East Hartford, sisters-in-law Cathy and her husband Vinnie Colletti and her children Nick and Tom DelGiudice and Mary Adams of Manchester, Laurie and her husband Bob Bengtson and their children Katie, Sarah and Emily of Glastonbury, Patricia Adams of East Hartford; brother in-law David and his wife Darlene Adams and their son Christopher of North Granby. He also leaves behind his beloved dogs Penelope and Baja.

The family will receive friends on Thursday at Newkirk & Whitney Funeral Home, 318 Burnside Avenue, East Hartford from 2-4 and 7 -9 p.m. Family and friends will gather for procession to St. Peter Episcopal Church, 109 Sand Hill Road, South Windsor, on Friday at 9 a.m. at the funeral home. Service at the church will begin at 10:30 a.m. Burial will be at the convenience of the family.

Memorial contributions may be made to the charity of donor's choice. For expressions of sympathy on-line please visit Dignity Memorial at www.mem.com

(Posted on Little Rock website 11 Mar 2013)

Breslin, John E. Jr.

January 11, 1927 - January 9, 2013

John E. Breslin, Jr., age 85, of Stratford, CT, passed away peacefully with his wife and two sons at his bedside on Wednesday, January 9, 2013.

John was born in Philadelphia, PA, on January 11, 1927 to John E. Breslin, Sr. and Helen Breslin. He graduated from Gloucester Catholic High School, and upon graduation enlisted to fight in World War II. He served in the United States Navy as an original crew member aboard the USS Little Rock. It was while in the service of his country that John met his loving wife of 63 years, Lucille F. Tessier of Fall River, MA. In 1950, John and "Tess" Breslin became husband and wife. They made their home in Gloucester, NJ, where John worked as a rigger and crane operator. In 1990, they moved to Stratford, CT.

John was active in retirement and enjoyed walking, photography, working with his model train collection, and traveling with his wife to visit his grandchildren and watch them compete in school sports. A true gentleman of great warmth and humor, John had a lifelong interest in and knowledge of history and geography. He will be missed by a loving family and his many friends and neighbors.

Besides his wife, John is survived by his sons: Mark Breslin of Stamford, CT, and his wife Dianne Nolan and their three sons Zachary, Andrew and John; and Paul Breslin of Wayland, MA, and his wife Cathy and their two children Samuel and Abigail. He is also survived by his younger brother Thomas Breslin and his wife Dorothy of Sewell, NJ, and their five children Jeffrey, Susan, Carol, Patty and Kim.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Saturday, March 9th, 2013 at St. Mark's Catholic Church in Stratford, CT at 11:00 AM. Friends and family may call before the mass at 10:00 AM. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in John's memory to either the American Cancer Society at www.cancer.org or the Alzheimer's Association at www.alz.org.

Cody-White Funeral Home will be handling the arrangements.

(Posted on Little Rock website 06 Mar 2013)

Clendenin, William A. "Al"
(August 5, 1923 - January 19, 2013)

Norfolk - William Allen (Al) Clendenin, age 89, died January 19, 2013 at Virginia Beach General Hospital, Virginia Beach, VA.

Al was the foster son of the late Harry and Virginia Scott of Moundsville, West Virginia. He was also preceded in death by his wife of 52 years, Julia E. Clendenin, a son, William A. Clendenin Jr.; and a step-son, Mark R. Sterner. He is survived by his sister, June Hagan of Castile, NY; a step-son, Thomas G. Sterner (wife Luanne) of Leavenworth, KS; son, Stephen S. Clendenin (Judy) of San Mateo, CA; daughter-in-law Jeanne D. Clendenin of Honolulu, HI; son, Jon D. Clendenin (Fenton) of Ashburn, VA; son Don E. Clendenin (Patty) of Stamford, CT; and son Robert E. Clendenin (Debra) of Virginia Beach, VA; 11 grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

Al was a long-time resident of 5312 Roslyn Drive in the River Oaks subdivision of Norfolk, Virginia. He purchased the family home in 1954 and was a charter member of the community. He lived there for nearly 60 years.

He was born August 5, 1923 in Duhring, West Virginia. Most of his early childhood was spent in the Woodsdale Children's Home in Wheeling, West Virginia. In 1935 he went to live with his foster parents, Harry and Virginia Scott on their farm in Limestone, West Virginia. He enlisted in the Naval Reserve on May 17, 1940. He served for the duration of World War II, with duty on various destroyers, hunting enemy submarines and escorting convoys in the Atlantic. He left active duty in September 1945 and began a career as a florist in Wheeling, West Virginia and Columbus Ohio. In April 1951 he returned to active duty for service during the Korean War. He married Julia Green Sterner in February 1953 and they moved to Norfolk, VA, where he was stationed. His Navy career included participation in the first Operation Deep Freeze in Antarctica in 1959, instructor duty at the Teletype School and later the Electronics School, Fleet Training Center, Norfolk Naval Station. In addition to service with the Second Fleet Flag Staff aboard the heavy cruisers USS Northampton, Little Rock and Newport News, he spent his final tour of duty aboard the aircraft carrier USS America. He retired from active duty on June 1, 1967 after 26 years of dedicated service. He embarked on his civilian career in August 1967 as the senior learning evaluator, Electronics School, Fleet Training Center, Norfolk. Upon retirement from civil service in August 1985, he was awarded the prestigious Navy Superior Civilian Service Award. On July 8, 1987, the Navy renamed the Electronics Training Facility (Bldg. N-25A) as "Clendenin Hall" in honor of his many years of service to the Navy in the field of electronics and communication. He spent his retirement years pursuing his hobby of woodworking, traveling the country with Julia in their motor home, enjoying time with family and cheering on the Old Dominion Monarchs. His life epitomizes all that is good and honorable about America's Greatest Generation and he will be missed by his family and friends.

The family will receive friends at Hollomon-Brown Funeral Home, Tidewater Drive Chapel, on Tuesday, Jan. 22, 2013, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. The service will be held at 11:00 a.m. Wednesday in the funeral home chapel. Burial will follow in Forest Lawn Cemetery with full Navy honors. Condolences may be offered to the family at www.hollomon-brown.com

(Posted on Little Rock website 11 Mar 2013)

Cook, John III

June 16, 2008

John Cook III, 57, of Vine Grove, KY, died Monday, June 16, 2008 at Hardin Memorial Hospital in Elizabethtown, KY.

He was a member of the Vine Grove Baptist Church, and retired from the Hardin County Detention Center. Mr. Cook was a graduate of North Hardin High School and was a member of Open Arms (grandparents raising grandchildren). He was formerly employed with UARCO and as a cook in the dining facilities at Fort Knox. He was a United States Navy veteran who served on the USS Little Rock as a Missile Technician.

He was preceded in death by his parents John and Margaret Louise Cook and his son, John Cook IV.

He is survived by his wife, Linda Marie Cook of Vine Grove; a daughter, Diana Christine "Christy" Conway of Radcliff, KY; a son, William Joseph "Joey" Cook of Vine Grove; four grandchildren, Christina Ann Cook , Louise Marie Cook, Krystelyn Rose Walker, and Brent Tyler Conway; three sisters Mary (Dan) Cantwell, Linda Ann Cook, and Lory Cook Padilla; and a brother, Michael Cook all of Radcliff; a niece, Sherri Cantwell, and numerous out of state relatives.

Expressions of Sympathy may take the form of contributions to the Vine Grove Baptist Church, 408-410 W. Main Street, Vine Grove, KY 40175 or the Woodland Dialysis Clinic, 912 Woodland Dr., Elizabethtown, KY 42701

(Posted on Little Rock website 19 Sep 2012)

Cullins, Peter K. (CO)

Rear Admiral Peter K. Cullins, USN (Ret.), died after a protracted illness on May 3 at his home in Camp Springs, MD.

Admiral Cullins was born on November 19, 1928 in Annapolis. He lived through the 1930's and 1940's in Palos Verdes Estates, CA, save for his father's assignment from 1940 to 1942 to the US battleship Oklahoma, where his father survived her sinking at Pearl Harbor.

After attending Annapolis High School and Valley Forge Military Academy, he attended the University of Houston until he entered the U.S. Naval Academy in 1947. Upon graduating, he served on the destroyer USS Rogers in Korea, then the destroyer USS Carpenter in Honolulu. In 1955 he attended the Navy's first Guided Missile School at Pomona, CA. He was then sent to the cruiser USS Boston, the first guided missile warship for a two year assignment. From 1957 to 1959, he was a senior instructor for Fleet Air Defense and Guided Missiles in the senior officer course at the Fleet Air Defense Training enter in San Diego, CA.

In 1960, Admiral Cullins was sent to the Naval Electronics Laboratory, San Diego for Instruction in computer programming for the Naval Tactical Data System. In 1961, he spent months on aircraft carrier USS Oriskany, installing the initial NTDS at the Hunter's Point Naval Shipyard in San Francisco. In the summer of 1961, he was ordered to the pre-commissioning detail of the first nuclear powered aircraft carrier USS Enterprise in Newport News, VA as the Assistant CIC Officer/ NTDS Officer. During this tour of duty, the Enterprise was also the first carrier on scene during the Cuban missile crisis.

In 1963, he attended the Naval War College in Newport, RI, where he also earned a Master's degree in International Affairs from George Washington University. Admiral Cullins then became the Executive Officer of the destroyer USS Luce in Mayport, FL, the first ship on scene during the Dominican Republic crisis of 1965. In late 1965, he was sent as Operations Officer of the nuclear cruiser USS Long Beach (CGN 9) because of his experience with the NTDS and the Navy's first Fixed Array Radar. The Long Beach fired the first missiles against North Vietnamese Migs, shooting down several. aircraft. For this deployment Long Beach received the Meritorious Unit Commendation.

In 1967, he was sent to the Pentagon in charge of Tactical Data Systems standards coordination. In 1969, Admiral Cullins took command of the destroyer USS Waddell homeported in Yokosuka, Japan. During his two years of command, USS Waddell won numerous awards including the Navy Unit Commendation Medal and in 1971 was awarded the Marjorie Sterrett award as the top readiness ship in the Pacific Fleet. During this time he was also a representative to the Command Excellence Forum, established by Adm. Zumwalt, at the Naval War College.

In 1971, he went back to the Pentagon, to the Ship's Characteristics and Fleet Modernization Division for Cruisers and Destroyers.

In 1973, Admiral Cullins took command of the cruiser USS Little Rock (CLG4), the Sixth Fleet flagship, homeported in Gaeta, Italy.

In 1975, he went back to the Pentagon to head the Program and Budgeting Office for the Deputy Chief of Naval Operations for Surface Warfare. Selected in 1976 for Rear Admiral, he took over the Information Systems Division of Naval Operations and formed the Navy's first business computer command, which became the Naval Data Automation Command.

Admiral Cullins last sea duty was as Commander, South Atlantic Force. In 1980 and 1981, homeported in Roosevelt Roads, PR, he was charged with planning the annual cruises around South America and West Africa to operate with the host navies.

Admiral Cullins's awards include two awards of the Legion of Merit, the Bronze Star, Meritorious Service Medal, Navy Commendation Medal, Republic of Vietnam Honor Medal First Class, Republic of Vietnam Distinguished Service Order Second Class, and fourteen other campaign or service ribbons.

After retirement in 1981, Admiral Cullins, beginning in 1985, became head of the Information Technology Department of the Retired Officers Association until 1996.

A resident of Camp Springs since 1967, Admiral Cullins's avocations were reading history, gardening, stamp collecting, racquetball and scuba diving, where he was certified as a Master Diver.

His wife of 54 years, Valaree, daughter of the late Commodore and Mrs. J.H. Jacobson, preceded him in death in 2008.

Survivors include his son and daughter-in-law, Dr. Richard F. Cullins and Linda Cullins of Annapolis; daughter, Linda J. Wilcox of Gainesville, FL; three grandchildren, Lewis J. Taylor IV, Esq. of Columbia, Stephanie Vader of Columbia, Jennifer L. Taylor of Gainesville, FL and Daniel Wilcox of Jacksonville, FL; Tracey Wilcox of Jacksonville, FL; and four great-grandchildren, Robert L. Taylor and Lindsay J. Taylor of Gainesville, FL, and Mei Lien Vader and An Lien Vader of Columbia.

Interment was private. RADM Cullins was laid to rest at the Naval Academy with full military honors.

(Posted on Little Rock website 16 May 2012)

DeCosta‚ Paul A.

(Feb. 21, 1929 - March 21, 2011)

DeCosta‚ Paul A. of Westville, NJ on March 21, 2011. Age 82 years.
Born in New London, CT on Feb. 21, 1929.
Departed on Mar. 21, 2011. Resided in Westville, NJ.
Cemetery: Gloucester County Veterans Memorial Cemetery

An outgoing, well liked man; Paul was known for his love of family and friends and good sense of humor. In the US Navy, Paul proudly served at the end of WWII and had the talent and honor to play many "Bugle Calls" while stationed onboard the USS Little Rock. The friendly island of Aruba became a second home to Paul and Myrtle in the last 15 years, where they enjoyed many care free days and forged many special friendships. Prior to retirement, Paul provided for his family by working as a bricklayer, as well as a crane operator for The Reading RR.

Beloved husband of 62 years to Myrtle (nee Marion); devoted father of Paul R. (Anne), Linda, Rick (Helen) and the late Carol; dear brother of Lois Zook, Ruth Stecher, Esther Vital and the late Mary Parry; loving grandfather of 6, great grandfather of 7 and great great grandfather of 2.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend his viewing 9:30-10:45 AM and Funeral Mass 11 AM Saturday in St. Anne RC Church, Rt. 130 S. @ Highland Ave., Westville. Interment with military honors, Gloucester Co. Veterans Memorial Cemetery, Williamstown. Tributes and memories may be shared at: www.mcgfuneral.com.

(Posted on Little Rock website 17 Sep 2012)

Fahlenkamp, Donald H.

(August 1, 1925 - February 26, 2009)

Don was born on August 1, 1925, in Hartley, Iowa to Lloyd and Clara Scholermann Fahlenkamp. He was raised on the family farm and attended school in Hartley. Following his education he assisted with chores on the family farm. During World War II he served with the United States Navy and was stationed on the USS Little Rock.

On April 1, 1946, he was married to Yvonne Collins of Humboldt, Iowa. The couple lived in Kimbleton, Iowa before moving to Montezuma in 1952. Don has been employed as Superintendent of the Montezuma Municipal Light and Power Company for 55 years. His most recent accomplishment being the purchase of a wind generator for the City of Montezuma.

Don served as Fire Chief of the Montezuma Volunteer Fire Department for 31 years and was Past President of the Iowa Association of Municipalities. He was a member of the Montezuma American Legion and the Montezuma Lions Club. Don enjoyed cooking for the United Methodist Men. He was a life-time member of the Poweshiek County Sportsman's Association. His hobbies included bowling, fishing, hunting, woodworking and trap shooting.

He is survived by his wife, Yvonne Fahlenkamp; his children, Sharon (Danny)Oliverson of Oskaloosa, Lanny (Carolyn) Fahlenkamp of Aurora, Colorado, Jacque (Howard) Johnston of Montezuma, Michael (Vicki) Fahlenkamp, Lana (Jack) Taylor, Patricia Collins (Margi Constantino) and Lewis James Fahlenkamp, all of Montezuma; 15 grandchildren; 28 great grandchildren; and one sister, Joyce Palmaymesa of Modesto, California.

He was preceded in death by his parents; one grandson, Troy Fahlenkamp; and one sister, Arlene Marsh; and four brothers, Robert, Harold, Alvin and James Fahlenkamp.

(Posted on Little Rock website 11 Mar 2013)

Fields, George W.

Longtime Eastwood (MD) resident George Werner Fields died March 1 (2009?) at his daughter's home in Berkshire. He was 81.

Mr. Fields retired from Maryland Drydock Co. after a long career as a welder.

During daily walks with his pet dogs, Bandit and Raggs, Mr. Fields enjoyed stopping along the way to talk with his neighbors.

He served aboard the USS Little Rock during his U.S. Navy service.

Predeceased in 1997 by his wife, Carolyn C. (nee Connor), he will be missed by daughter Sharon Witkowski of Berkshire, son Edward D. Fields of Essex, five grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren.

Services were held March 4 at C. S. Zeiler and Son Funeral Home. Interment followed at Oak Lawn Cemetery.

Fisher, Gary C.

(November 25, 1951 - June 7, 2011)

Gary C. Fisher, 59, of Middletown, NJ died of liver cancer in Cape Coral, FL on Tuesday, June 7th, 2011.

He was born in Greenwich Village, NYC on November, 25th, 1951. Gary attended St. Veronicas elementary, St. Josephs secondary, and the High School of Fashion Industry in Manhattan, New York City. He served in the US Navy on the USS Little Rock from 1971 to 1973. Gary received an Associate Degree from Manhattan Community College in 1978. He started his professional career at NY Telephone Company in 1971, and continuing working as a programmer for AT&T and Bell Labs until retirement in 1998.

Gary was an avid listener of music and public radio the majority of his life. In his later years he greatly enjoyed sitting out on the lanai and watching boats pass by in the canal. He held a strong interest in WWII and Civil War era history. Gary was a member of the American Legion Post # 338, Leonardo, NJ and a Telephone Pioneer. He volunteered his time to transport individuals leaving New York during the 9/11 Crisis. Gary was a gentle spirit, always willing to help others, loved by all.

Gary was predeceased by his father, Harold Edward Fisher, and mother, Katherine Agnes Fisher (Nee Corbett). Survived by his loving wife, Ellen M. Fisher (Nee McGarrigle), daughters Bridget K. and Elizabeth L. Fisher, and granddaughter, Nalani J. Reevey. He also leaves behind his loving brother Harold J. and sister-in-law, Frances Fisher as well as nieces, and nephews, Cristine Fisher, Elaine and Tim Coleman, and Diane and Tom Campbell, along with their two children, Brianne and Thomas Jr.

At Gary's request, he was privately cremated. Donations can be sent to Hope Hospice at Hope Health Care Services, 9470 Health Park Circle, Fort Myers, FL 33908.

(Posted on Little Rock website 19 Sep. 2012)

Fox, Emanuel

December 04, 2005

On December 4, 2005 EMANUEL FOX, Age 99; beloved husband of the late Alma Maude Fox (nee Riley). Dear friend of Loretta and Gil Hoffman and their family. A Funeral Service with Military Honors will be held in the Chapel of Maryland Veteran's Cemetery, Garrison Forest on Thursday, December 8 at 11:30 A.M. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the Associated Jewish Charities or the U.S. Naval Fleet Reserve Association, C/O Vernon M. Kershaw, SCC-TREAS, 1628 Bedford Rd., Glen Burnie, MD 21061. Arrangements by the family owned Mitchell-Wiedefeld Funeral Home, Inc

(Posted on Little Rock website 01 Jan 2013)

Garcia, John D.

(January 28, 1946 - Oct. 29, 2012)

On October 29, 2012 John David Garcia, beloved husband, father and grandfather passed away.

John was born in Jersey City, New Jersey on January 28, 1946. In 1964 John entered the United States Navy as an electronics technician. He spent the next four years on the USS Little Rock and then attended Jersey City State College where he graduated with a degree in Fire Science. Shortly after, in 1971, John was married to his beautiful wife Loyola Garcia. In 1972, John welcomed his son John Christopher and then in 1976 his daughter Karen. In 1973 John purchased his first house in Jackson, New Jersey where he created a home for his family until 1986‚ After that John and his family moved to Mount Laurel, New Jersey where John spent the next 24 years until he retired to The Villages in Florida. John spent his entire career in the field of firefighting as a front line fire fighter, a fire marshal, a fire code inspector, a fire chief, and a college instructor. John returned to college at St. Joseph's University in Philadelphia to graduate with his Masters degree in Public Administration.

John is a member of the American Legion, the Knights of Columbus and a past president for the Jaycees. In retirement, John loved to cook, garden, golf, shop, drive his golf cart, entertain friends, work on his home in the Villages, spend time with his family and spoil his grandson Levi Michael.

Survivors include his wife, Loyola Garcia; his children, John Christopher Garcia and Karen Garcia-Ornelas; and his grandson Levi Michael Ornelas.

Visitation will be held at Beyers Funeral Home in Lady Lake, Florida on Friday November 2, 2012 from 5pm until 7pm. Church Services will be held On Saturday November 3, 2012 at St. Timothy Catholic Church at 8:30 am.

(Posted on Little Rock website 29 Nov. 2012)

Girard, Charles Edward, Jr.

Georgetown, MA — Charles Edward “Ed” Girard, Jr., 70, beloved husband of Cathleen M. (Saulnier) Girard, passed away peacefully on October 23, 2012 surrounded by his loving family after a brief illness.

Born in Haverhill on June 23, 1942, he was a son of the late Charles E. Girard and Russell and Eva (Hamel) Jackson.
After graduating from Ipswich High School in 1961, Ed enlisted in the U.S. Navy and served aboard the U.S.S. Little Rock CLG4 as a radar specialist during the Vietnam War.

Upon honorable discharge from the Navy, he was employed as a digital logic electronic technician at the former L.F.E. Corp in Wakefield, Dynapert Division of United Shoe Machine Corp. in Beverly and Black and Decker in Beverly. He retired in December of 2008 from U.M.G. Technologies in Danvers.

Ed enjoyed tinkering with cars, was an avid reader and sci-fi movie buff. He also liked watching sports and was a Boston sports fan.

In addition to his loving wife of 45 years, he is survived by his children; Michelle Currie and her husband Joseph of Dracut, Nichole Jalbert of Sanford, Maine, Stephen Girard of Plaistow, N.H; nine grandchildren; two brothers, Frank Jackson of Palm Springs, Calif., Scott Jackson of Merrit Island, Fla.; a sister, Louise Goodrow of Skowhegan, Maine; several brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his brother, Russell Jackson.
ARRANGEMENTS: Family and friends may call from 4 to 7 p.m. on Friday, October 26, at the Merton E. Roberts, Jr. & Conte Funeral Home, 14 Pleasant Street, Georgetown. A prayer service will be held at 7p.m. Interment will be private. In lieu of flowers, donations in Ed’s memory may be made to Merrimack Valley Hospice House, 360 North Ave., Haverhill, MA 01830.

(Posted on Little Rock website 07 Nov 2012)

Greening, Billy R.

Billy R. Greening, 73 of Camden, AR passed away Thursday, August 09, 2012 at the Ouachita County Medical Center. He was born June 01, 1939 in Camden, AR. He was in the United States Navy stationed on the USS Little Rock, part founder of Greening Hunting Club and was a member of the Two Bayou Fire Department.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Neoma Jane Greening; son, Wayne Kelley; father, Paul Douglas Greening; mother, Agnes Christine Tyson Greening; sister, Margaret Beavers; brothers, James Douglas Greening, William Tyson Greening and Robert Paul Greening.

He was survived by his daughters, Angela Stringfellow and husband, George of Camden, AR, Ranea Spencer and husband, Richard of Ohio and Kathy Jones and husband, Jr. of Camden, AR; brother, Powell Greening; sister, Ruth Ann Headrick and husband, Harry; six grandchildren; six great grandchildren and many nieces, nephews and cousins.

(Posted on Little Rock website 19 Sep. 2012)

Guido, Pasquale

(1942 - April 22, 2010)

Pasquale Guido (Age 68) passed away April 22, 2010, in the presence of family at his home in Carlisle, PA. He had prostate cancer.

He is survived by his wife of 29 years, Dianne; and children, Teresa, Francesco, and Michael Guido, all of Carlisle; sisters, Antonia Mazza of Rockville, MD, Maria Guido of Silver Spring, MD and Anna Perrone (husband, Vinnie) of Burtonsville, MD; and nephew, Saverio Mazza of Silver Spring. He was predeceased by his parents, Francesco and Teresa Guido; and infant sister Rosetta.

Born in San Giovanni in Fiore, Cosenza, Italy, Pasquale emigrated to Canada in 1957, settled in Washington, DC in 1959, and soon became a U.S. citizen. He began a 26-year career in the U.S. Navy in 1962, serving on the USS Magoffin, USS Little Rock, USS Lawrence, and USS Yellowstone. He also served tours at Treasure Island, CA.; Rota, Spain; La Maddalena, Italy; and Newport, RI. He attained the rank of Chief Petty Officer.

In his retirement, he enjoyed traveling and participated in a number of volunteer historical and environmental restoration projects in Europe through La Sabranenque and Volunteers for Peace. He relished spirited discussions on a wide range of topics, particularly politics, history, religion and philosophy. He was well versed in state, national, and world affairs and frequently shared his views with elected officials. When he wasn''t exercising free speech, he would build or fix most anything. Pasquale will be honored with a U.S. Navy Burial at Sea. No public service will be held.

In recognition of Pasquale's devotion to his dogs Wookie, Atouk, and the late Timber, donations in Pasquale''s memory may be made to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), 520 8th Avenue, 7th Floor, New York, NY 10018, or
at: http:// www.aspca.org/ .

Published in The Washington Post on April 25, 2010

(Posted on USS Little Rock website: Mar. 11, 2013)

Hinckley, Ronald B.
(May 23, 1949 - December 11, 2007)

Ronald Beach Hinckley, 58, of Clinton, passed away Tuesday, (December 11, 2007) surrounded by his family at his home. He is survived by his loving companion of seven years, Sandra "Sarah" Lanoue.

He was born in Westfield, MA on May 23, 1949, son of the late H. Bruce and Constance G. Hinckley. Ron was a Vietnam Veteran serving in the Navy on the U.S.S. Little Rock. He was employed for 25 years for Power Specialties in Massachusetts, and for the last seven years at Torrington Supply as Industrial Sales Manager. He is a member of the Westbrook American Legion and manager of their baseball team. Ron was very proud to be selected as a State Committee Member to the State of Connecticut American Legion Baseball Team. He was a devoted father, and grandfather. He will be sadly missed.

Besides Sarah, he is survived by four children, Kelly Michaud and her husband Mark of Cromwell, Timothy Hinckley and his wife Stacey of Southington, Alicia Gibson and her husband Jeffrey of Greenwich, and Sara Hinckley of Clinton. He is also survived by three sisters, Linda L. Dickerson of Missouri, Betsey A. Davis of Indiana and Lauren B. Chistolini of Massachusetts; two brothers, Bruce A. Hinckley, and David N. Hinckley both of Massachusetts. He also leaves behind four granddaughters, Marley, Mallory, Kailey and Leah.

Family and friends may call the Swan Funeral Home, 80 East Main Street, Clinton, Friday, December 14, from 5-9 p.m. To celebrate Ron's life a service will be held at the Clinton Congregational Church, Saturday, December 15, at 11 a.m. Burial will follow at Beaverbrook Cemetery in Clinton, with full Military Honors.

Memorial contributions may be made to Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation North Central CT @ Western, MA, 20 Batterson Park Rd., 3rd Floor, Farmington, CT 06032

Please visit www.mem.com for an everlasting memorial.

(Posted on Little Rock website 11 Mar 2013)

Holmes, David R.
(July 21, 1944 - July 16, 2012)

David R. Holmes of Otsego, Michigan passed away Monday, July 16, 2012, at his home. Dave was born July 21, 1944 in Toledo, OH to Grant and Ernestine (Radsick) Holmes. From 1961 to 1981 he served his country in the US Navy. He was a Life Member of V.F.W. and a member of the U.S.S. Little Rock Association. Dave retired from the U.S. Navy in 1981, but he fully retired in 2008 with his wife, Bev. They moved into their motor home and became full-timers! The first year on the road took them to 27 states, which Bev chronicled on their blog. Eventually they settled in the RV in summers at Schnable Lake Campground in Otsego and winters in Las Vegas or Florida, traveling wherever they wanted on the road in between.

On November 25, 1977 in Otsego he married Beverly Ann Hoyt, who survives. Also surviving are 1 son and 2 daughters, Daniel Holmes of Traverse City, Kimberly (James) Hall of Bonney Lake, WA, Michele (Brett) Everson of Graham, WA; 5 grandchildren, Andrew Charles, Kyle Everson, Heather Hall, Adrienne Holmes and Ellery Holmes; a brother, James E. (Gaye) Holmes of Hayden, AL; a sister, Faye Ann (Harold) Rickabaugh of Spring lake; nieces and nephews, Dawn, Paula, Jimmy, Lea, Julie, Sarah, Aaron, Brian, Audrey, Amy, Michael, Justin, Rebecca, Timothy, EJ, Tamara, Elizabeth, Samantha, Kody, and Kyle; and great nieces and nephews, Aaron, April, Amanda, Deanna, Grant, Katherine, Elinor, John, Mickala, Joseph, Wade, Emilee, Racheal, Rebekka, Claudia, Alyssa, Kasi, Anna, Richard, Bailey, Dominiq, Rylee, Mason, Carson, Ethan, Shelby, Brennan; good friends, Bruce and Lynda LaFountain and their family, James, Vicki, Audra and Hannah all of Otsego.

He was preceded in death by a brother, Donald Holmes; a sister, Mary Lucinda Klosinski; and a great nephew, Jesse Tyminski.

Friends may meet with his family on Thursday from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 P.M. at Winkel Funeral Home, Otsego, where funeral services will be held at 11:00 A.M. Friday, Pastor David Reed officiating. Military Honors by VFW Post #3030 and the U.S. Navy. Cremation will follow. Burial of ashes with Military Honors at Fort Custer National Cemetery will be held Wednesday, July 25, 2012 at 1:30 P.M.

Contributions in memory of Dave may be made to the U.S.S. Little Rock Association, c/o Frank Berglas, 10 Bayberry Lane, South Salem, NY 10590.

Messages of condolence for his family may be posted at www.WinkelFuneralHome.com

(Posted on Little Rock website 09 Sep 2012)

Hren, Frank S.
(October 22, 1925 - February 4, 2004)

At his request, no services are planned for Frank Stanley Hren, 78, of Casper, Wyo. Cremation has taken place. He died February 4, 2004 - at the Central Wyoming Hospice Home after an extended illness.

He was born October 22, 1925 in Rosita, Colo. to Frank V. and Anna (Vaclav) Hren. He graduated from Central High School in Pueblo, Colo. in June of 1943 and went directly into the Navy. He was Honorably Discharged in April of 1946. The last ship that he was on was the U.S.S. Little Rock. He married Sarah L. Jefferies on December 20, 1948 in Clayton, N.M. He worked for GATX as a Shop Superintendent for 8 years in Casper, and then worked for Pacific Power and Electric Plant in Glenrock for 22+ years, retiring as a Control Operator. He enjoyed bowling, travel, photography, astronomy, cabinet making, woodworking, and he was a voracious reader and an avid sports fan. He was a member of the American Legion and a life member of the Elks. He was very fond of animals and helping with the destruction of cruel and inhumane practices.

He is survived by his wife, Sarah Hren, Casper, WY; his sister-in-law, Mary Jane Lackey; and seven nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and his two sisters, Dorothy Swenson and Betty Ann Ronco.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the charity of donors choice; The International Fund For Animal Welfare, 411 Main St., Yarmouth Port, Mass. 02675-1843; The Casper Humane Society; or the Central Wyoming Hospice Program.

(Posted on Little Rock website 19 Sep 2012)

Johnson, David A. (XO 1961-1962)
(October 25, 1919 - November 19, 1998)

SURRY, VA - Ret. U.S. Navy Capt. David Alan Johnson, 79, died Thursday, Nov. 19, 1998, at his residence. He was born in Washburn, Wis., on Oct. 25, 1919.

He graduated from the Duluth (Minnesota) Junior College and was attending the University of Minnesota at the onset of World War II.

In January 1942, Capt. Johnson enlisted in the Navy. After recruit training and serving as a pharmacist's mate, he entered officer training at Columbia University, where he graduated and was commissioned an ensign on July 28, 1943.

During World War II, he served as a motor torpedo boat officer and participated in various battle campaigns in the Pacific. Assignments since World War II included: executive officer, USS Black (DD 666) and USS Little Rock (CLG-4); commanding officer USS LSM 104, USS LSM 399, USS Beale (DD 471) and USS Marias (A0-57); deputy commander Manned Spacecraft Recovery Force during the Gemini program; senior member Board of Inspection and Survey, Atlantic; and various staff duties.

He retired from the U.S. Navy on June 30, 1974.

Among the medals he received were the Legion of Merit, Meritorious Service and Purple Heart (World War II Japanese gunfire).

Capt. Johnson was a member of the Williamsburg, Va., Seventh-Day Adventist Church.

He is survived by his wife, Norma LaVaughn Johnson of Surry; sons, David Trent Johnson of Sterling and Gregg Alan Johnson of Griffin, Ga.; and three grandchildren, Heather Johnson of Olney, Md., and Brian and Amanda Johnson of Griffin, Ga.

(Posted on Little Rock website 11 Mar 2013)

Jones, Robert P.
(1950 - September 9, 2012)

Robert P. (Bob) Jones III., 62, passed away from a brain tumor on Sept 9 at his home. He leaves behind his loving wife of 33 years, Beth Jones, and 2 children, Andrew (Lackland Airforce Base) and Malorie (El Salvador) of whom he was so proud.

Born and raised in Miami, Fla, at 18, he enlisted in the Navy and served 4 exciting years sailing over much of the world - an adventure that inspired a lifelong interest in diverse peoples and cultures. He attended the University of Florida where he obtained his Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering. After 2 years as an engineer on the oil patches in the Gulf, he came to Lexington to work for Link-Belt Construction Equipment - a job he dearly loved and looked forward to waking up to every single day for 31 years. He reluctantly retired last month and dearly missed tackling the challenges as a Senior Manufacturing Engineer, as well as his friends and coworkers there.

He was a man of diverse interests - he thrilled to the sound of Opera as much as riding through the woods on his dirt bike. He was unpretentious and found humor in the most unexpected places. He was generous and often spoke up on the editorial page against hypocrisy or in support of the underdog. He loved life; loved his family and his friends and was so grateful for the generous support they have shown us over the past year.

He is the son of the late Rose Mary Martin and Robert P Jones, Jr. He also leaves behind his brother Bill, and sisters Juanita and Joanne (all of Florida) as well as his brothers and sisters-in-law that he loved as if they were his own siblings (John (Lex), Patsy Ann (San Diego), Cathy and Paul (Chapel Hill) and many nieces and nephews.

Memorial Services are Sat, Sept 15 at 6:00 pm at St Michael the Archangel Episcopal Church on Bellefonte Dr with a celebratory reception to follow at the church. Bob asked that, in lieu of flowers, friends should instead donate to a charity that is close to their own heart.

(Posted on Little Rock website 26 Nov 2012)

Jorolemon, Richard M.
(March 13, 2006 - June 6, 1944)

Mr. Richard M. "Dick" Jorolemon, 61, of 12 Green St., Port Byron, NY was pronounced dead Monday morning March 13, 2006, in the emergency room of Auburn Memorial Hospital, after being stricken while driving his trunk on Green Street.

Mr. Jorolemon was born June 6, 1944, in Auburn, the son of Leland and Hazel Sarr Jorolemon. He graduated from Weedsport High School. He served in the Navy from 1963 until 1970. His last assignment was aboard the USS Little Rock as a GMG2. He served off the coast of Vietnam and received various medals including the Vietnam Service Medal and two Bronze Stars. After his discharge he was a self-employed carpenter. He also worked at J&L Carpet in Auburn for a time, and for Frank Steigerwald Electric, Auburn. He worked as a contractor at Wells College in Aurora for 13 years.

He married the former Arden Jetty Aug. 16, 1975 at the Port Byron Federated Church, with the Rev. Barton Van Fliet officiating. He was twice past commander of the Port Byron American Legion Post 257 John-Cole. He was a past county commander of the American Legion of Cayuga County. He was a former Boy Scout leader, an umpire for Port Byron Little League Baseball for many years, a former member of the Port Byron Village Planning Board, a volunteer cook at Unity House in Auburn, a volunteer for many civic organizations in Cayuga County, where he was noted for his barbecued chicken. He played Santa Claus for various nursing homes in the Cayuga County area. He was a member of the Veterans of Foreign War, Croghan NY. He was president of the Dollar for Scholars organization and a sports booster at Port Byron Central School. In 1989, he was a state trap-shooting champion. Being an avid deer hunter, he belonged to many hunting clubs in the Lewis County area; most recently the Bindle Hunting Club in Castorland, N.Y.

Surviving besides his wife, is his mother, Hazel, of Auburn; two sons and their wives, Dr. Michael and Kathleen of Memphis, N.Y., and Sgt. Richard "Rick" of the 10th Mountain Division deployed in Afghanistan and Dawn of Watertown; two daughters and their husbands, Mary Jo and Eric Norfolk of Port Byron, and Jessica and Jason McGowan of Palmyra; 10 grandchildren; one brother and his wife, Edgar and Kris of Williamson; and one sister and her husband, Marcella and Nathan Navarro of Brookdale Ill.; aunts, nieces, nephews and cousins. One sister, Sandra VanHoover of Liverpool, died in 1981.

(Posted on Little Rock website 19 Sep 2012)

Kelly, Paul E.
( March 6, 1926- May 20, 2012)

Paul E. Kelly, 86, of Holton, KS died, Sunday, May 20, 2012 at the Holton Community Hospital.

He was born March 6, 1926 at Whiting,KS the son of James and Mary Moss Kelly. He graduated from Holton High School in 1944. He attended Kansas State University where he received a Bachelor's Degree in 1951 and a Master's Degree in Music Education in 1966.

Paul was a U.S. Navy veteran of World War II. He served aboard the U.S.S. Omaha and the U.S.S. Little Rock at Recife and Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. While in the Navy, he was a student at the Navy School of Music in Anacostia, D.C., and sang in the Catholic section of the Great Lakes Choir Company.

Paul taught instrumental and vocal music in the public school sytem for all grade levels for 18 years. He taught at Wilsey, Circleville, Soldier, Havensville, Portland, Oregon, Pratt and Topeka. After retiring from teaching he sold real estate and factory built homes, retiring in 1994.

He was a member of St. Dominic Catholic Church in Holton, and an Honorary Life Member of Holton Knights of Columbus Council No. 4219 and William T. Jochems Assembly of the 4th Degree in Atchison. He was a Life Member of the Holton American Legion Post No. 44 and Holton Memorial Post No. 1367 of the V.F.W.

Paul played with the Matt Betton Band and the Stan Broadhurst Quartet in Manhattan and the Paul Kelly Quintet Band in Topeka.

He married Marilyn J. Riley on June 28, 1955 at Holton.

Paul was preceded in death by 3 brothers, John Kelly, George Kelly and Leo Kelly, and two sisters, Mary Wissler and Adaline Grannell.

Survivors include four sons, Timothy Kelly, Topeka, Thomas Kelly and wife Annette, and Sean Kelly, all of Holton, and Brendan Kelly and wife Deb, Shawnee, KS; six grandchildren, Hillary Lolley, Pamela King, Rodney Gaston, Mackenzie Kelly, Jack Kelly, and Emily Babcock, and two great grandchildren, Parker and Pearson Lolley.

(Posted on Little Rock website 19 Sep 2012)

Knepp, Charles
(Nov. 9, 1942 - Nov. 28, 2009)

Charles "Charlie" Knepp, 67, a resident of Cuba, NY, formerly of Norristown, PA passed away at 9:15 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 28, 2009, at his home surrounded by his loving family after a long illness.

Born Nov. 9, 1942, in Lewistown, PA he was the son of the late Russell and Dorothy (Steltzer) Knepp.

He was a veteran of the U.S. Navy where he served on the U.S.S. Little Rock and the U.S.S. Randolph. He was stationed at Little Creek, Norfolk, Va. with the Beach Jumper unit.

He was retired from Stroehmann Bakery where he worked for 23 years and was last employed as a production manager.

Charlie enjoyed hunting, fishing, golf, bowling, volleyball, flag football, softball, playing video games and spending time with his loved ones.

He was a son, husband, father and a very special (great) Pappy.

Surviving are: his loving wife, Sandra C. (Hearn), of 45 years and three daughters, Daina Merena (Robert), of Mohnton, Sheri Ayers (Stacy), of Olean, N.Y., and Dorothy "Doodle" Farrington (Patrick), of Olean, N.Y.; six grandchildren, Ashleigh, Kyle, Emily, Mariah, Kaitlyn, Shawn and one great-grandson, Marcus, along with several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by a daughter, Diana Lynne and a sister Constance "Connie" Parson, of Port Royal.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the American Lung Association.

(Posted on Little Rock website 19 Sep 2012)

Koepke, Kenneth W.
(April 19, 1921 - April 13, 2012)

Kenneth W. Koepke died peacefully April 13, 2012, at the age of 90.

Born April 19, 1921, in Campbellsport, WI. Son of Charles and Viola Koepke. Married August 11, 1951 to Betty Jane Petri at the Salem Reformed Church, Wayne, WI, who preceded in death February 4, 2007. Father of David (Karen) and Mark (Laurie) Koepke, grandfather of Matthew, Katherine, Andrew, Jason and Kendall Koepke. Brother of Lloyd (Sharon) Koepke, Lillian Burgert, Joan (Vernon) Buslaff and Gloria Serwe.

Retired from Harley Davidson Co., Milwaukee, WI, where he worked for 42 years as Office Service Supervisor. Member of United Reformed Church, Wayne and Milwaukee, WI, presently attending Bethel-Bethnay United Church of Christ, Milwaukee, WI. Member of James M. Hays Masonic Lodge No. 331, where he was Master in 1976, Scottish Rite Bodies in the Valley of Milwaukee, and Shriner Tripoli Temple, where he served as Recorder and Trustee for six years and was awarded Recorder and Trustee Emeritus. Served six years in the U.S. Navy 1942-1948 on the USS Wichita from 07-04-1942 to 05-20-1946 and was in 13 major battles and then on the USS Little Rock from 05-20-1946 to 07-13-1948 and was Honorably Discharged on 07-18-1948.

In lieu of flowers, memorials to Shriners Hospital for Children appreciated.

(Posted on Little Rock website 19 Sep 2012)

Kostrivas, Terry
(1945 - Dec. 12, 2012)

Terry Kostrivas found his peace on December 12, 2012, at age 67.

Beloved son of Chris and the late Ella. Dear brother of the late Kathleen Schwert, Cynthia (John) Braatz and Michael (Kathy) Kostrivas. Also loved by his nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. Terry was a teacher and coach at Boys Tech, and served in the US Navy.

Special thanks to the nurses and physicians at St. Francis Hospital.

Visitation at the Funeral Home on December 17, at 10AM until time of Funeral Service at 12 noon. Burial at Wisconsin Memorial Park.

In lieu of flowers, memorials appreciated to the Wisconsin Humane Society.

(Posted on Little Rock website 23 Mar 2013)

Lab, Richard L.
(Oct. 20, 1926 - Jul. 28, 2011)

Richard L. Lab, age 84, of Upper Sandusky, Ohio passed away on Thursday, July 28, 2011 at 8:41 PM at the Fairhaven Community in Upper Sandusky.

Richard was born on October 20, 1926 to Eugene T. (1898-1976) and Ruth N. (Baxter) Lab (1903-1997) in Akron, Ohio. On September 2, 1949 Richard married Barbara Jean Bennett in her parent's home in Findlay, Ohio and she died on May 15, 2003.

Surviving is a son Tony and his wife Becky Lab of Upper Sandusky and 2 grandsons, Andrew and his wife Megan and Curtis, along with 5 great grand children, Hannah, Kayla, Nick, Dominique and Clay all of Upper Sandusky and a special friend Jo Leigh.

Richard was preceded in death by his parents, wife, and 2 infant children Jack and Nedra Faye, and 2 brothers Eugene and Jack Lab.

He was a 1944 graduate of Carey High School where he was Sr. Class President.

Richard was a United States Veteran having served in the Navy as a Plank Owner on USS Little Rock CL92, and was on the postwar goodwill tour of South America around Cape Horn. He also served in later years on the Service Draft Board until the draft law ended after Vietnam.

In 1947-1950 Richard attended and graduated from Findlay College where he played college baseball earning three varsity letters.

From 1950-1952 Richard taught at Lima St. Johns where he also coached basketball and baseball. From 1952 - 1953 Richard taught at Liberty Local (Darke Co.) where he also coached basketball and baseball. From 1953-1986 Richard taught Science, Geography, Ohio History, American History and Journalism at Upper Sandusky Jr. High where he also coached Jr. High Basketball and Varsity Baseball. While at Upper Sandusky Jr. High, Richard re-established Orange and Black in the Daily Chief, he was an advisor to publishing more than 350 editions, he started "Little Rams Tales" Jr. High newspaper, and in 1957 Principal Robert Barclay and Richard established High School Bowling League.

He served for over 7 years with the Upper Sandusky City Council and also coached American Legion and Little League Baseball. He was a life member of the NEA and OEA. For hobbies he enjoyed traveling, going to the Carey Class of '44 monthly lunches and attending student reunions, reading and drinking his Pepsi.

And many will remember the how Richard enjoyed visiting with former students and friends especially at his home where his door was always open for company and for his love for his family.

A Graveside Service for Richard L. Lab will be held on Saturday August 13 at 11:00am in Old Mission Cemetery in Upper Sandusky with Rev. Ken Wessler officiating.

The family will receive family and friends following the service back at the Lucas-Batton Funeral Home in Upper Sandusky where lunch will be served in the community room of the funeral home.

Memorial contributions may be made to Upper Sandusky Public Library or a Charity of the Donors Choice and can be sent to Lucas-Batton, 476 S. Sandusky Ave. Upper Sandusky, OH 43351.

(Posted on the USS Little Rock website 31 May 2013)

Lantz, Gary T.

(February 14, 1941 - January 30, 2013)

Gary T. Lantz, age 71 of Rt. 4 (Lost Run Community) Grafton, WV passed away Tuesday, January 30, 2013 at his residence.

He was born February 14, 1941 in Flemington, WV a son of the late Sydney A. Lantz and Helen G. (Whitehair) Lantz.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 43 years, Wanda June (Sheppard) Lantz; five children, Tim Wilson and wife Faye of Grafton, Tammy Barcus and husband Joe of Grafton, Kevin Wilson and companion David Dille of Blacksville, WV, Kelley Lantz of Grafton, and Ben Lantz and wife Kristy also of Grafton; 13 grandchildren, Rachel Hayhurst, Shannon Wilson, Michael Barcus and wife Danielle, Buddy Barcus and wife Rachael, Krista Barcus, Nicky Osbourne, Amber Swisher, Morgan, Maddison, Marti Lantz, Sean Trickett, Cam Simmons, and Kelsey Cheshire; seven great-grandchildren, Garrett, Levi, Braylon, Tucker, Briella, Laylen, and Remington; one brother, Sidney M. Lantz and wife Lynda of Grafton; two sisters, Sara Ann Nedorolik and husband Charles of Manasses, VA and Gloria Jean McCloy and husband Bill of Grafton; also survived by several nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by one brother James Richard "Rick" Lantz.

Gary served in the US Navy as a machinist repairman, petty officer in charge of the machine shop on the USS Little Rock. He was also a farmer, machinist, truck driver, and caretaker of the Harmony Grove Cemetery. He enjoyed his grandchildren, college football, basketball, and NASCAR Racing.

He attended the Harmony Grove Baptist Church.

The family will receive friends at the Donald G. Ford Funeral Home in Grafton on Friday, February 1, 2013 from 4:00 p.m.-8:00 p.m. and from 10:00 a.m. until the funeral hour on Saturday.

Funeral services will be held at the funeral home on Saturday, February 2, 2013 at 11:00 a.m. with Pastor Jim Baker officiating.

At Gary's request, he will then be cremated and a private memorial service will be conducted at the family's convenience.

Online Condolences: www.donaldgfordfuneralhome.com.

(Posted on Little Rock website 11 Mar 2013)

Lapinski, Joseph A.
(July 10, 1926 - Sept. 21, 2009)

Joseph A. Lapinski Sr., 83, of Mocanaqua, PA passed away Monday, Sept. 21, 2009, in Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center.

Born in Mocanaqua, PA on July 10, 1926, he was a son of the late Charles and Anna Lapinski. Joseph was a life resident of Mocanaqua. He attended Mocanaqua schools and was a proud member of the "Greatest Generation." Joseph was a World War II veteran, serving in the Navy as a seaman first class, and was a member of the original crew of the USS Little Rock.

After the war, he worked as a carpenter and building contractor, retiring from Magee Industries, Bloomsburg, where he served as a roofing maintenance supervisor. Joseph was an avid hunter and outdoorsman who enjoyed sharing his knowledge of these hobbies with his children and grandchildren. A devoted father and family man, he enjoyed most the time spent with his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren and watching the Phillies with his wife. A tireless teacher and mentor, he spent countless hours helping family and friends with home fix-up projects where he shared his skills as a finish carpenter. An avid outdoorsman, he spent many hours hiking and hunting the areas near his home with his children and grandchildren.

Joseph was a member of Ascension Church, Mocanaqua; Mocanaqua Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 6434; the Moc-Pond Hunting Club; and the USS Little Rock Association.

He was married in 1957 to Joann Skvarek, with whom he celebrated their 51st wedding anniversary in November 2008.

In addition to his parents, Joseph was preceded in death by brothers, John, Vincent, Charles, Walter and Stanley.

In addition to his wife, Joseph is survived by a daughter, Dr. Cynthia Lapinski Jurta and her husband, Dr. John Jurta, Mocanaqua; a son, Joseph Jr. and his wife, Alanah, Mocanaqua; grandchildren, Joseph Lapinski, Ethan Lapinski, John Jurta and Matthew Jurta; great-grandchildren, Patrick and Marlee Lapinski; sister, Helen Daniels, California; brother, Alex Lapinski, Mocanaqua; and many nieces and nephews.

(Posted on Little Rock website 19 Sep. 2012)

Lavoie, Roland E.
(January 5, 1927 - April 17, 2012)

Roland E. Lavoie, 85, of Nashua, a lifelong resident of this city, died Tuesday morning, April 17, 2012 at Southern New Hampshire Medical Center after a brief illness.

A son of the late Auguste and Lena (Bouchard) Lavoie, he was born in Nashua on January 5, 1927. Educated in the Nashua School System, Roland enlisted in the Navy during his senior year at Nashua High School to serve his country during World War II.

Following his honorable discharge from the Navy, Roland began his career at Nashua Corporation, where he worked in the mechanical department for 42 years. After he retired, Mr. Lavoie worked as a custodian at The First Church, U.C.C. for several years.

Mr. Lavoie was a communicant of St. Louis de Gonzague Church and the former St. Francis Xavier Church. He also held membership in the American Legion James E. Coffey Post #3 of Nashua. Roland enjoyed woodworking, gardening and landscaping at his home. He especially loved spending time at the beach with his wife Fleurette.

In addition to his parents, Roland was predeceased by a daughter, Joanne P. Langis; a granddaughter, Maria Langis; and his brother, Henry Lavoie.

Members of his family include his wife, Fleurette (Lachance) Lavoie, whom he married on September 5, 1949 and shared 62 years together; a son, David P. Lavoie and his partner Ron Langley of Nashua; two daughters and sons-in-law, Denise and William Savage and Janet and Stephen Whissel all of Nashua; a son-in-law, Robert Langis of Merrimack; seven grandchildren, Tabitha Scribner and her husband Tim, Tiffany Langis, Sarah Langis, Bryan Savage, Christine McDonald and her husband Jeremiah, Angela Sweet and her husband Brian, and Gregory Whissel and his wife Michele; three great-grandchildren, Christiane and Gabrielle Whissel and Clyde Langis; two sisters-in-law, Fernande Lavoie of Nashua and Simone Girouard and her husband Roland of Florida; a brother-in-law, Robert Lachance and his wife Barbara of Brookline; an aunt, Theresa Lavoie of Nashua; a special family friend, Michael Moulton of Merrimack; also nieces, nephews, cousins; and his cat, "Peaches".

(Posted on Little Rock website 17 Sep 2012)

Layer, Richard M.

Richard M. “Dick” Layer, 83, formerly of Ashland, Ohio passed away Thursday evening, Jan. 14, 2010, in Hospice of North Central Ohio.

He was born June 1, 1926, in Mansfield, a son of Milton A. and Irene Yoha Layer. He graduated from Mansfield Senior High School in 1944.

During World War II, Dick served in the U.S. Navy aboard the cruiser USS Little Rock CL 92, as a radioman. Following the war, he attended the University of Kentucky’s School of Banking, and graduated from The School of Banking at the University of Wisconsin.
Dick began his banking career in 1947 with the former Farmer’s Bank in Bellville and in 1959 he joined Citizen’s Bank in Los Angeles. He retired from Crocker Bank, San Francisco, in 1985, as vice-president and regional senior lender. He later joined The Bank of San Diego as senior vice-president and area manager.

He was a member of First English Lutheran Church in Mansfield. He was a longtime member of Bellville Lodge 376 F&AM and Scottish Rite Valley of Columbus.

Survivors include his daughter, Deborah (Daniel) Brownlee of Zanesfield; sons Kent R. Layer of Bellville and Charles R. Layer of Geneva; grandchildren Russell and Courtney Brownlee, Heather Brownlee, Kevin and Holly Brownlee, Brian and Morgan Layer and Caden Layer; a step grandson, John (Ariana) Layer; six great-grandchildren; three great-step grandchildren; a sister-in-law, Mary Layer Meese; several nieces and nephews; and his beloved fiancée Shirley Stegall of Lexington.
He was preceded in death by his wife Norma Jean Folk Layer; a brother, Bob Layer; and his sister and brother-in-law Mildred and Daurl Shaffer.

Visitation is from 2 to 6 p.m. Sunday in Snyder Funeral Home, 2553 Lexington Ave., Mansfield, where Bellville Lodge 376 will conduct Masonic honors following the visitation. Pastor Andrew Jones conducts a funeral at 11 a.m. Monday in First English Lutheran Church, 53 Park Avenue West, Mansfield, followed by military honors conducted by the Richland County Joint Veterans Burial Detail. Burial will follow in Bellville Cemetery.

Memorial contributions are encouraged to Hospice of North Central Ohio and may be made at the funeral home. Express condolences at www.snyderfuneralhomes.com.

(Posted on Little Rock website 27 Feb 2012)

Lesso, Francis A.
Jul. 16, 2010

Francis (Frank) Andrew Lesso, 60, died on Friday, July 16, 2010, at Strong Memorial Hospital, Rochester, NY, after a brief illness. He was predeceased by his parents, George and Anna Lesso; and his brother, George T. Lesso. He was a loving husband of Eugenie (Jean) E. Lesso, with whom he celebrated their 30th wedding anniversary on July 4; and devoted father of April M. Lesso of Johnson City. He is also survived by his siblings, John Lesso of Colorado, Patricia and John Lasicki of Chenango Bridge, Michael Lesso of Beaufort, SC, Mary Jane and Ernest Grausgruber of Susquehanna, PA; many nieces and nephews; in-laws, Buck and Nancy Yates, Chesterfield, VA, Eddie Yates, Paul Yates, both of Richmond, VA, Eva Bell Sterns of Victoria, VA, Catherine Lyons of CA, and V.G. Hrubienski of Richmond, VA.

Frank was a graduate of Johnson City High School and a U.S. Navy veteran of the Vietnam War, having served on the USS Little Rock. He was an electronic technician for BAE Systems with 37 years of service. Frank enjoyed hunting and fishing on Cayuga Lake, where he had a camp. In Frank's memory, teach a child to fish and take a friend fishing.

(Posted on Little Rock website 19 Sep 2012)

Lineberger, Ernest R., Jr.
(April 4, 1926 - December 2, 2009)

Ernest R. Lineberger, Jr. was born in Asheville, North Carolina to parents, Pastor Ernest R. Sr. & Irene Lineberger. He graduated from Lenoir Rhyne College in Hickory, North Carolina. He earned his Master of Divinity in 1950 from Lutheran Theological Southern Seminary in Columbia, South Carolina. He was ordained on June 25, 1950 at St. Matthew Lutheran Church, Kings Mountain, North Carolina and served as pastor of Trinity Lutheran Church, Rocky Mount, North Carolina for one year (1951). He served as a Navy Chaplain, beginning with the 2nd Marine Air Wing, Cherry Point, North Carolina. Then came: 1st Marine Air Wing, Korea; Naval Air Station, Key West, Florida; USS Intrepid CVA22, Aircraft Carrier, Norfolk, Virginia; Post Graduate study at Harvard Divinity School; Marine Corp Air Station, New River, North Carolina; Naval Base, Subic Bay, Philippines; San Diego Naval Station; Recruit training Command, San Diego; Naval Academy, Annapolis, Maryland; USS Little Rock CLG-4 Missile Cruiser, Flagship of the Sixth; US Force Troops Marine Corps Chaplain, Camp Lejeune, North Carolina; Fleet Chaplain, Pearl Harbor; Chaplain, Naval Post Graduate School, Monterey, California where he retired from active duty in 1971.

Later he served many churches in California, Arizona and Hawaii. He was then called to Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran Church, Merced, California where he preached his ‚Äòlast' sermon on Christmas Day, 1988. This is the church family who celebrated 50 years of Ordained Ministry with him and where he continued to worship. There is no way to count how many lives Pastor Ernie has touched over the years, around the world, both on land and sea. However, we do know that he lived his life according to his philosophy we give thanks for his faithful dedicated years of ministry among the people of God. Ernie continued to be a strong presence in each of our lives even as he suffered from the devastation of Alzheimer's. His last days at the Franciscan brought many visitors who offered kindness, memories, hugs and words of comfort. Ernie is survived by his loving wife, Connie Lineberger; his sister, Ruth Lineberger; son Ernest Lineberger; daughters, Vicky Wood, Kathy Moody, Sara Lineberger, Carrie Gwynne, and Anne Daly; also several beautiful grandchildren.

A Memorial Service will be held at Shepherd of the Valley, Merced, California on December 12, 2009 at 10:30 a.m. Burial will be private at Santa Nella Military Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorials can be sent to Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran Church, 1455 E. Yosemite Ave. Merced, CA 95340

(Posted on Little Rock website 19 Sep 2012)

Maloney, Philip T.

Philip T. Maloney 84 of Troy passed into eternal rest on Friday morning Dec. 16, 2011, suddenly at his residence.

Born in Troy, Philip was the son of the late George and Ruth Riley Maloney Sr. and loving and devoted husband of Mary Grace Bevevino Maloney of Troy. Philip graduated from St. Michael's School and La Salle Institute both in Troy. During World War II he served in the U.S. Navy aboard USS Little Rock CL 92 and the USS Missouri BB-63 as a fire control director MK 38. Upon his discharge he came back and worked at Behr Manning Corp. in Watervliet. When the Korean War began he was recalled and assigned to the USS Missouri from Aug. 5, 1950 to Oct. 18, 1951. During that time he participated in two invasions and was the second last ship from Wonsam Harbor. He also participated in the fifteen bombardment of Korea. When he returned he began his employment with the U.S. Postal Service for the next 33 years retiring in 1984 as the supervisor of the Lansingburgh Post Office. He was a member of St. Michael's Men's club, the Troy Elks, Past President of the Patroon Club and a former member of the CRAB Club in Troy. He was a life member and past commander of the DAV # 38, past Dep. Chief of staff of the DAV of NY. Member of Missouri BB 63 Association and the USS Little Rock Association. Philip was also the past treasurer of the South Troy Little League and a lifetime member of Rev. Francis Kelly DAV., he was also an original Commander of Honor of deceased veterans of Rensselaer County and was a board member and current President of The Troy Post Office Credit Union. Philip was a communicant of St. Michael's Church in Troy. He enjoyed spending time with his family, especially the trips with the Patroon Club that he made with his son Timothy to see Mets and Yankee baseball games.

In addition to his wife, Mary, Philip is also survived by his loving son Timothy (Kim) Maloney of Troy and his very special and loved granddaughter Caitlin Maloney of Troy. He was pre-deceased by his two brothers George Maloney Jr. and John J. Maloney. He is also survived by several nieces and nephews.

The funeral service for Philip will be held on Tuesday morning at 8:45 a.m. from The Wm. Leahy Funeral Home, 336 Third Street Troy and at 9:30 a.m. at St. Michael the Archangel Church where a Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated. Relatives and friends are invited to attend and may call at the funeral home Monday from 4 to 8 p.m. Interment will be held at the Gerald B.H. Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery, 200 Duell Rd., Schuylerville N.Y.

Contributions in Philip's memory may be made to the American Heart Association , 440 New Karner Road, Albany NY 12205

Mancuso, Joseph J.

Joseph James Mancuso loving father, brother and husband, was born in Carbondale, Pennsylvania September 5, 1929 and died August 4, 2010.

He was a graduate of Benjamin Franklin High School in Carbondale, Pennsylvania on June 20, 1947. He honorably served our country for over twenty years in the Pennsylvania National Guard from August 29, 1946 until October 29, 1947 and in the United States Navy from September 24, 1947 to June 1, 1967. He faithfully served our country in the Korean Conflict on the USS Oriskany, USS Philippine Sea, and he also served on the USS Midway, USS John R. Pierce and USS Little Rock. He attained the rank of Senior Chief Petty Officer in December 16, 1960. He also received the National Defense Service Medal, Korea Service Medal, United Nations Service Medal and two Good Conduct Medals. He received his AA degree while in the Navy. Joseph retired to Florida where he raised two children with his wife and became a neighbor and friend to many in Plant City, Florida. “We love you Dad and we miss you.”

He is survived by Rhonda Mancuso, his daughter and Joseph J. Mancuso, Jr., his son and brother Peter Kiehart. “You will be in our hearts and our minds now and forever.”

Marnock, Marvin J.
November 8, 2012

Marvin Jerome Marnock, 86, died peacefully Thursday, November 8, 2012 at his residence in Asheville, NC with his wife by his side.

A native of San Antonio, TX, Mr. Marnock was a veteran of the US Navy, having served in WWII and the Korean War. He served on the USS Little Rock and was awarded the WWII Victory Medal and National Defense Medal. He earned degrees in law, math, physics, and electronics. He began his career in the US Patent Office in Washington, DC as a patent examiner. He then worked 20 years as a patent attorney for NASA at the Lyndon B. Johnson Space Center in Houston, TX during the height of the Apollo missions. He was also a past president of the Houston Intellectual Property Law Association.

He raised five children, had 12 grandchildren, and was married for nearly 53 years to the same woman, Mary Louise Lent Marnock. He rarely swore and then only at the TV during a Houston Oilers game. He had a gift for solving puzzles and easily could have been a Wheel of Fortune champion.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Mary Woller Marnock and Alfred A. Marnock, two brothers, Alfred Marnock and Woodrow Marnock, two sisters Myrtle Marnock and Mary Lorraine Van De Walle, and one grandson William Travis Marnock.

He is survived by his wife Mary Louise Lent Marnock; two daughters, Caroline Marnoch and her husband, Robert Carey, of Portland, OR and Jane McKillip and her husband, Kirk, of Houston, TX; three sons James Marnock, MD and his wife Maryann, of Asheville, Patrick Marnock and his wife Shelly, of Frisco, TX and Cian Marnagh and his wife Elessa, of Milford, CT; as well as eleven grandchildren.

He lived a long and full life.

A memorial service will be held at 12:00 PM on Saturday, November 17, 2012 in the Pulliam Chapel at Givens Estates with Rev. Father C. Morris Boyd officiating. A private family interment will be held at Lewis Memorial Park.

An online memorial register is available at www.grocefuneralhome.com.

Published in Express-News on November 15, 2012

Mason, Albert T.
(1926 - 2013)

Harrington, DE - Albert Thomas "Boots" Mason passed away on Sat., March 23, 2013 at the Zephryhills Hospital, in Florida.

Mr. Mason was born in Mt. Vernon, MD, along the Wicomico River, to the late Albert and Aleta Mason, where he spent much of his early life boating and fishing. He served his country proudly in the U.S. Navy aboard the U.S.S. Little Rock on its maiden voyage, as an electrician first class. After his discharge and his graduation from business college in Baltimore, he went to work for Delmarva Power in the business office, where he met his future wife. He worked with Delmarva Power for 37 years, as a lineman, foreman, and finally as a supervisor of line construction. He retired in 1986. Boots was a talented athlete. He was a baseball player in his younger years and was inducted into the Eastern Shore Baseball Hall of Fame in 1989. He was an avid tennis player. He and his brother Earl were a fearsome duo while they were in Florida together. He also enjoyed traveling with Frances in their Airstream trailer, and they spent winters in the Dade City, FL area at Travelers Rest Resort. Mr. Mason was a member of the Asbury UMC of Harrington, the Masonic Lodge #106 in Princess Anne, and was Past President of the Delmarva Unit WBCCI (club of Airstream RV Owners).

Albert is preceded in death by his brother, Earl S. Mason.

Albert is survived by his loving wife, Frances Perdue Mason of Harrington, DE; daughters, Aleta Mason Thompson of Rehoboth Beach, DE, Joan Mason Sacks of Atglen, PA, Mary Jean (and Lester) Blades of Felton, DE; grandchildren, Alison Sacks, Chelsea Sacks, Thomas Blades, Andrew Blades; sister, Cora Mason Widdowson of Princess Anne, MD and family; sister in law, Juanita Mason and family.

A service will be held on Saturday, March 30, at 11 a.m. at the Melvin Funeral Home, 15522 S. DuPont Hwy, Harrington, DE, with a visitation one hour prior. A Maryland visitation will take place from 3 to 4 p.m. on Saturday March 30, at Hinman Funeral Home, 11673 Somerset Avenue, Princess Anne, MD. Interment will be at the Mt. Vernon Asbury United Methodist Church Cemetery, Mount Vernon, MD .

Arrangements are by the Melvin Funeral Home, www.melvinfuneralhome, and the Hinman Funeral Home, Princess Anne, MD.

In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory may be sent to Asbury UMC, 200 Weiner Avenue, Harrington, DE 19952 or to the Asbury UMC, 26869 Mt. Vernon Road, Princess Anne, MD 21853.

Published in The Daily Times on March 27, 2013

(Posted on USS Little Rock website: Apr. 7, 2013)

McDowell, David E.

(Nov. 29, 1920 - Jun. 2, 2003)

David E. McDowell, 82, of Las Vegas died Tuesday, June 2, 2003. He was born Nov. 29, 1920, in Columbus, Ohio. A resident for 11 years, he was a retired owner-operator of a financial management company and a World War II Navy veteran.

He is survived by his wife, Eleanor; two sons, David J. McDowell and Daniel B. McDowell, both of Massachusetts; two stepdaughters, Nancy Melvin and Deborah Elicker, and one stepson, Randal Melvin, all of Ohio; and six grandchildren.

(Posted on USS Little Rock website: Sep. 19, 2012)

McDowell, Willie B.

(Dec. 3, 1940 - Dec. 26, 2011)

On December 26, 2011, God dispatched his angels to quietly and lovingly usher His son, Willie Berry McDowell, known to his many family and friends as "Mack", to his heavenly home.

He was born December 3, 1940 to Jack Hogget and Evelyn Daye-McDowell of Anderson, South Carolina and was educated in the Winston-Salem, Forsyth county school system. At the age of eighteen he joined the U.S Navy serving three years aboard the USS Nicholas DD449, home port Pearl Harbor, Hawaii. A second tour of duty was served aboard the USS Little Rock, CLG4, homeport Portsmouth, Virginia. After completing his military services, he returned to Winston-Salem and worked as an insurance salesman for Southern Life Insurance Company. Following four years in insurance sales, Mr. McDowell worked for the Bahnson Company where he became a member of the Machinists' Union and was elected Vice President of the local union. After a nine year tenure at Bahnson, he was employed in the maintenance department at Winston Salem State University where he remained until his retirement in 1999. In his free time, Mack enjoyed working with the local youth, organizing and coaching for the Tri-City Hornets AAU Boys Basketball team and the YWCA Imanis Girls AAU Team. Mack and his wife also volunteered as foster parents, providing many kids a safe and loving place to grow.

Mack was preceded in death by his grandparents, Ralph and Sammie Eller McDowell; his mother, Evelyn Daye McDowell; one brother, Marion Dewitt McDowell. He is survived by his loving wife of 32 years, Patsy; two daughters, Adanna McDowell of Boston, MA and Cierra McDowell of the home; four sons, Che D. (Sublena) McDowell, Ashanti (Mercy) McDowell, Terrance (Alicia) Gwyn, and Quincy( Aiesha) Washington, all of Winston-Salem; twelve grandchildren; two great grandchildren; other relatives and friends.

Funeral services will be conducted 2:00 p.m. Saturday, December 31, 2011 at Greater Cleveland Ave Christian Church with Bishop Sheldon McCarter, officiating. Interment will follow in Evergreen Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 1-2:00 p.m. at the church Saturday. Online condolences may be sent to www.hooper funeralhome.net.

(Posted on USS Little Rock website: Apr. 1, 2013)

Messich, George
(Aug. 24, 1926 - Jul. 5, 2010)

George Messich, 83 of Greensboro, Pa., was called home to be with his Lord and Savior at 8:10 PM on Monday, July 5, 2010 surrounded by his loving family in his home after a short illness.

He was born August 24, 1926 in Nemacolin, Pa., a son of the late Steve and Julia (Przyhocki) Messich. Mr. Messich served with the U. S. Navy on board the USS Little Rock from December 22, 1944 until his discharge on April 3, 1946. In his earlier years, Mr. Messich very much enjoyed bowling. He also played baseball for many years in the Big Ten. His hobbies included hunting and fishing for the past 62 years at his cabins in Elk County, Pa. while watching over his younger friends. He was an avid football fan and supporter of the Mapletown Maples. Mr. Messich was a member of Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 6303 and retired from the Duquesne Light Warwick mine in 1988 after working at the mine for 44 years. Mr. Messich will be dearly missed by his family and friends. He had a great love for the Lord and the Blessed Virgin Mary and was a lifelong member of the Holy Family Roman Catholic Church, Greensboro.

On July 1, 1948, he married his best friend and soul mate, Mary Jane Truhan, who survives. The couple was married at St. Hubert Roman Catholic Church, Point Marion, Pa.

Also surviving are two loving children, Kathy Ridella and her husband, Jim of Johnstown, Pa. and George Messich and his wife, Linda of Greensboro; his dearly loved grandsons, Pete, Jimmy, Matt and Mark; step grandsons, Eric Gapen and Mark Gapen and his wife, Heather; step great grandchildren, Katie and David; brothers, Paul Messich and his wife, Francie of Cheswick, Pa. and Andrew Messich of Pymatuning, Pa.; a sister, Rose Ann Gearing and her husband, George of Parma, Ohio; a sister-in-law, Liz Messich of Parma; a special aunt, Helen Sokol of Nemacolin, Pa. and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins. Deceased is a brother, Steve Messich and longtime close friends, Steve and Edith Billetz.

Family and friends are welcome from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 P.M. on Thursday in the Yoskovich Funeral Home, Carmichaels, Pa. where a blessing service will be held at 10:15 A.M. on Friday, July 9, 2010, followed by a Mass of the Resurrection at 11:00 A.M. at the Holy Family Worship Site of the St. Ignatius of Antioch Parish, Greensboro with the Rev. Lawrence V. Holpp as celebrant.

Interment will follow at Monongahela Hill Cemetery, Mapletown, Pa.

Posted on USS Little Rock website: Nov. 09, 2012

Monks, Leonard

Leonard James Monks Sr., age 83, passed away peacefully on December 5, 2011, at St. Mary Hospital surrounded by his loving family.

He was born and raised in Philadelphia, and later moved to the newly established Levittown area to raise his family. He was a retiree of Plavins where he worked as a salesman and manager. Lenny and his family were the proud owners of Lenny Monks Garage. He was a WWII Navy Veteran who served in the Mediterranean operating landing crafts. He also served aboard the U.S.S. Missouri and the U.S.S. Little Rock. He was a member and past commander of the VFW Billington Post. He was an usher for many years at St. Joseph the Worker Church where he was an original parishioner who helped in the construction and finishing of the church and rectory. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, and great grandfather. He treasured his family and loved celebrating holidays; especially Christmas.

He was preceded in death by his parents George and Mary Monks; and his sister Marinell Coleman. Lenny will be greatly missed by his beloved wife of 63 years Irene M. (nee: Petrino); his children Irene M. Kazan and her husband Steven, Leonard J. Jr. and his wife Michele, and Mary Lou Garris and James. He is the loving grandfather of Tina, Ronnie, Irene, Stephanie, Michele, Toni, Lucy, Grant, Laura, Kimberly, Lenny III, and James; and 13 adoring great grandchildren. He is also survived by sisters-in-law; brothers-in-law; and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Relatives and friends are invited to call Friday, 6-9pm, and Sat., 8-9am, at the Galzerano Funeral Home, 430 Radcliffe Street, Bristol Borough. Funeral Mass, 10am, at St. Joseph the Worker Church. Interment will follow in Resurrection Cemetery.

Moore, Withers McAlister RADM USN (Ret)

Withers McAlister Moore, of Lonoke, died on March 23, 2011. He was a fifth generation Methodist minister born in Cabot, Arkansas on November 12, 1926 to the Rev. Dr. Robert Bowen Moore, Sr. and Mary Lillian McAlister Moore.

After graduating in 1943 from Pine Bluff High School, he enrolled in the U.S. Navy V-12 Commissioning Program at Arkansas A&M in Monticello. Upon completion, he was commissioned an Ensign at the age of 18 and served out the last days of World War II in the Pacific theater. Following the war, Withers returned home and earned a Bachelor of Art Degree from Hendrix College in the Class of 1946.

In the summer of 1948, while attending training for public school teachers, he met and married the love of his life, Betty LaVerne Moore on August 18, 1948. Following a short teaching career, he enrolled at Perkins School of Theology at Southern Methodist University and earned a Bachelor of Divinity (Seminary) Degree in 1951 and was ordained an Elder in the Little Rock Conference where he was appointed to the Sherrill/Tomberlin Charge.

In June of 1953, Withers was selected for Active Duty in the U.S. Navy Chaplain Corps and was commissioned in the grade of Lieutenant, Junior Grade. Over the course of the next 27 years, he served in a variety of challenging assignments in many parts of the world. In May, 1964, he completed additional postgraduate study at Yale University to earn a Masters Degree in Systematic Theology. In the years following, he served in such assignments as Chaplain aboard the USS Little Rock (CLG 4), Staff Chaplain for the Commander-In-Chief of U.S. Naval European Forces and as the U.S. Navy Pacific Fleet Chaplain. In 1975, he was selected for promotion to the grade of Rear Admiral, and through his remaining service years oversaw the entire world-wide ministry of the 1400 member U.S. Navy Chaplain Corps.

Admiral Moore retired from Naval Service at the age of 54 on July 1, 1980 after serving his final tour of duty as the Deputy Chief of Chaplains in Washington, D.C. Upon returning “home” to Arkansas, he was appointed to serve as pastor of Des Arc First United Methodist Church from 1982 to 1988. Since retiring from the ministry in 1988, Withers and Betty have enjoyed 23 years of retirement in their Lonoke home. Withers spent a lifetime in loyal service to God; he was a strong and gifted leader, generous beyond measure, and a man of gentle humor.

He is survived by Betty, his wife of 62 years; daughter, Catherine Reynolds of El Dorado, AR; son, Rev. Dr. Russell R. Moore of Crossett, AR and daughter, Rev. Dr. N .Robin Moore of Little Rock, AR; brother, Rev. Dr. Robert B. Moore, Jr. of Benton, AR; sister, Martha Sue Jefferies of Little Rock, AR; 8 grandchildren and 7 great-grandchildren.

A memorial service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, March 26, 2011 at Trinity United Methodist Church officiated by Rev. Britt Skarda. A private graveside service will be held at Pinecrest Memorial Park. Memorials may be given in his name to Trinity United Methodist Church, 1101 N. Mississippi St.,Little Rock, AR 72207 or First United Methodist Church in Crossett, 500 Main St., Crossett, AR 71635. Arrangements by Ruebel Funeral Home.
www.ruebelfuneralhome.com.

Posted on USS Little Rock website: Jun. 19, 2012

Mozdziez, Henry J. Jr.

(May 22, 2012)

Beverly, MA - Henry J. Mozdziez Jr. ‚"Hank"‚"Mike", 61, passed away Tuesday May 22 at Beth Israel Deaconess Hospital in Boston. Born in Salem, he is son of the late Henry Sr. and Mary‚"Marie" (Moynihan) Mozdziez.

Hank grew up in Salem and Beverly and was a graduate of Beverly High School. He is a veteran of the United States Navy having served on the USS Little Rock during the Vietnam Era. During his time in the service, he was an Admiral's printer. Upon his honorable discharge from the Navy, he worked at the Ipswich Chronicle as a printer. For many years, Hank worked at The Golf Club at Turner Hill as the bartender and enjoyed performing magic tricks as a Magician. Hank also worked at Dailey's in Middleton and Lewis's in Essex. He was also the owner of Kola-Tees. Hank enjoyed skiing, golf, hanging out at the beach, NASCAR racing, football, baseball, and doing magic with the kids at Turner Hill. He was a member of the Vittori Rocci Post, Italian Community Club and The Society of American Magicians.

Surviving Hank are two sisters: Justyna "Tina" Mozdziez of Beverly and Patricia "Pam" Bates of Newbury; and one nephew: Justin D. Keefe of Beverly. He is predeceased by his brother-in-law Robert Bates.

Memorial Contributions may be made in Hank's memoryto the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, 9 Erie Drive, Suite 101, Natick, MA 01760 or to Beth Israel Deaconess Hospital, Oncology Department, 330 Brookline Ave, Boston, MA 02215.

Posted on USS Little Rock website: Sep. 19, 2012

Nelson, John
(??? - April 4, 2011)

John "Jackie" Nelson formerly of West Roxbury, passed away April 4, 2011 in Richmond, Texas.

Preceded in death by parents William Stanley Nelson, and Nora (Joyce) Nelson, and children John (Jackie) Nelson Jr., and Joanne (Nelson) Sprinsky. He leaves behind children Shirley (Nelson) Pleickhardt of N.H., Kaaren Nelson of Texas, Kimberly (Nelson) Peirce of Rhode Island, and Erick Nelson of MA. He also leaves behind 16 grandchildren.

Jackie was a proud veteran of the US Navy where he served honorably on the USS Little Rock. He worked as a welder for many years and had special interests in history, anthropology, the Algonquin Nation, Irish/Celtic music, and story telling. His stories will be treasured by us all.

Funeral Service in the P.E. Murray - George F. Doherty & Sons Funeral Home, 2000 Centre St. WEST ROXBURY, Tuesday at 12:00 Noon. Relatives and friends warmly invited. Visiting hours prior to the service from 10:00 AM - 12:00 Noon. "Jackie" will be laid to his final rest in Mt. Benedict Cemetery, West Roxbury.

Online guestbook anddirectionsat www.pemurrayfuneral.com. P.E. Murray-George F. Doherty & Sons West Roxbury 617-325-2000

(Posted on USS Little Rock website: Mar 11, 2013)

Noble, Henry R.
(1926 - January 2, 2013)

Henry "Hank" Ralph Noble, 87, passed away January 2, 2013 after a short illness. He was born and raised in Yonkers, NY.

He joined the US Navy at the age of 16 and served in WWII as a boatswains mate assigned to the USS Little Rock. He was a member and President of the Rotary Club.

He is predeceased by his wife Jaqueline Noble and brother Paul Noble. Survivors are a brother Francis Lincoln Noble of Dallas, TX; half-brother Joe Pietrantonio of Monterey, CA; half-sister Frances Naclerio of Las Vegas, NV and several nieces and nephews.

Memorial Service will be held 2:00 p.m. Sunday, January 13, 2013 at United Methodist Church of Midway.

Remembrances can be sent to Wounded Warrior Project online at www.woundedwarriorproject.org or mailed in his name to 4899 Belfort Rd. Suite 300 Jacksonville, Fl. 32256.

Online Condolences can be made at www.carteroglethorpe.com

Carter Funeral Home Oglethorpe Chapel 912-368-3780

Please sign our Obituary Guest Book at savannnahnow.com/obituaries.

Published in Savannah Morning News on January 11, 2013

(Posted on USS Little Rock website: Mar 11, 2013)

O'Connor, James A.
(August 23, 1924 - January 31, 2013)

James A. (Jim) O'Connor, born August 23, 1924, joined his Heavenly Father on January 31, 2013. He will be lovingly missed by his wife of 65 years, Audrey (Poinsatte) O'Connor, daughter Kathy (Bill) Dillhoff, son Mike (Suzy) O'Connor, daughter Laurie (Dave) Russell and son Jamie (Cheryl) O'Connor, eleven grandchildren and five great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, his sister Mary (O'Connor) Krock and brother Jack O'Connor. He is survived by his brother Paul O'Connor and sisters Jeanne Derheimer and Pat Meehan.

He was born and raised in Fort Wayne, Indiana and attended the University of Notre Dame where he also participated in the Naval ROTC program. After graduation, he proudly served in the United States Navy as Lieutenant on board the USS Little Rock. His education as a chemical engineer led to a long career with Essex Group, a division of United Technologies. While there he developed several patents for the company and designed a solvent recovery system that provided significant environmental protection. As a result, he was awarded the prestigious Sagamore of the Wabash award by the Governor of Indiana in 1984. He was president of the Essex Group when he retired in 1984 to pursue other interests in Florida.

After retirement, he enjoyed time with friends and family on the golf course and at the bridge table, cheering for his beloved Fighting Irish and finding other interesting business opportunities. He dabbled in the energy industry with great interest in alternative sources including thermal loop heat pump systems and hydroelectric power. No matter what the business, he always sought ways to do things better - more efficiently, more economically, more effectively. His desire to assist others led him to become a supporter of and mentor for Habitat for Humanity families in southwest Florida. While always promoting the value of education, he happily guided his families through major financial and lifetime decisions.

The family will celebrate his life with the Mass of Christian Burial at St. William's Catholic Church, Naples FL, on Thursday, February 7, 2013 at 10:00 AM.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to Avow Hospice of Naples FL so that they may continue to provide the compassionate care to others that he received during his last weeks; Moorings Foundation Inc. of Moorings Park in Naples, FL to provide extra assistance to all those who took such good care of him throughout his years there; or Habitat for Humanity of Southwest Florida to continue its work to provide homes for all.

(Posted on USS Little Rock website: Mar. 11, 2013)

Otto, Albert J. (Chaplain)

( Jan, 13, 1924 - May 22, 2009)

Albert Joseph Otto, age 85, died Friday, May 22, 2009 at Silver Bluff Nursing Home, Canton, NC.

Born in Kalamazoo, Michigan on January 13, 1924, he was raised there and later in St. Petersburg, Florida. The son of the late William Henry Otto and Gladys Opal Kelley Otto, who moved to Maggie Valley in 1945, Al served during World War II in the U.S. Marine Corps as Sergeant in the Telephone Corps with long-range artillery units in the Pacific Theater. Upon discharge from the Marines, he walked from Waynesville bus station to Campbell Creek Road in Maggie Valley, arriving at 4:00 a.m. at his parents‚ home.

A graduate of Emory University with a Bachelors of Science, he subsequently received a Master of Theology from Dallas Theological Seminary, a Masters in Biology from Hofstra University and a Masters of Arts in Human Resources Management from Pepperdine University. He studied for a Ph.D. from Dropsie College of Hebrew and Cognate Learning. He joined the Navy in September, 1953 as the first Plymouth Brethren Assemblies chaplain and retired as a Commander on June 30, 1980, his final shipboard assignment being the U.S.S. Saratoga. After a medically induced retirement, he lived in Wheaton, IL, Keystone Heights, FL, and Maggie Valley, NC. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by one sister, Evelyn Otto Buchanan.

He is survived by his wife of 61 years, Elizabeth Colgan Otto; one daughter, Mary Otto Selzer, of Cullowhee; two brothers, Charles Wesley Otto and Abraham Franklin Otto both of Florida; and many nephews, nieces and their families.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. Friday, May 29, 2009 in the Waynesville Christian Fellowship Church with Clayton Davis officiating. A committal service will be in Green Hill Cemetery conducted by Reverend Michael Otto with military rites being performed by the United States Navy. The family will receive friends from 9:30 until 10:50 a.m. prior to the service at the church.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Gideons International ‚ Haywood West Camp, P.O. Box 634, Waynesville, NC 28786 or to the Jackson County Public Library Complex Building Fund, FOL, P.O. Box 825, Sylva, NC 28779.

Wells Funeral Home of Waynesville is in charge of the arrangements.

Posted on USS Little Rock website: Dec. 10, 2012

Oxley, Clarence T.
(January 12, 1927 - July 24, 2011)

PRINCETON - Clarence T. "Tink" Oxley, 84, of 1534 Old Athens Road in Princeton, WV died Sunday, July 24, 2011 at Princeton Community Hospital.

Born January 12, 1927 in Athens, he was the son of the late Estel Francis Oxley and Delilia D. Martin Oxley. Tink was a 1944 graduate of Athens High School and was a World War II veteran serving in the U.S. Navy from 1945-1946 aboard the U.S.S. Little Rock, Seaman First Class as a gunners mate. He retired from Bluefield Daily Telegraph in 1992 with over forty years of service. Tink was a member of the Melrose Presbyterian Church where he served as a Deacon and Elder for many years. He was also a sixty-three year member of Concord Masonic Lodge #48 A.F. & A.M. Athens Chapter 26 RAM, serving as a Past Master, a Charter member of the former Melrose Lions Club, Past President and Board Member of the Mercer Anglers Club, and Past Board member of the Athens Volunteer Fire Department. He was an active supporter of the former Athens High Athletic Boosters for many years and served as the official time-keeper at Athens High School home basketball games for many years. He was known as "PeePaw" to his nine grandchildren and two great-grandchildren and many of their friends. In addition to his parents, two brothers, Harold Oxley and Ralph Oxley; and one sister, Margaret Shupp preceded him in death.

Survivors include his wife of sixty-one years, Sarah Elizabeth "Tibby" Rice Oxley of Princeton; three sons, Edward "Ed" Oxley and fiancee Carol Felts of Princeton, Timothy R. Oxley and wife Greta of Bridgeport, WV, and Terry L. Oxley and wife Earlene of Bluefield; nine grandchildren, Christopher Oxley, Nicholas Oxley, Trevor Oxley, William Oxley, Sara Oxley, Tara Dutta, Brittany Aust, Morgan Oxley, and Emma Grace Oxley; two great-grandchildren, Jackson Oxley and Jillian Oxley; one sister, Rosalie McKenzie of Athens; and three brothers, James Oxley of Oakvale, Pearis Oxley of Princeton, and Bennie Oxley of Athens.

Posted on USS Little Rock website: Sep. 19, 2012

Palmer, Kenneth S.

Kenneth S. Palmer, 84, passed away peacefully on Monday, January 23, 2012 at Reeds Landing, Springfield, MA.

Born in Pawlet, VT on December 30, 1927, he was the son of the late Fletcher and Christa (Lewis) Palmer, and has resided in Springfield for the past eight years. A US Navy veteran of World War II, he served as a Seaman First Class aboard the USS Little Rock. After four years of service in the Navy, Kenneth enlisted in the US Coast Guard where he served for twenty years, retiring as a Senior Chief Engineman. Upon completion of his military career Kenneth was a twenty year Park Ranger for the Vermont National Forest Department.

He enjoyed hunting and fishing and while living in Vermont was active as a Boy Scout Leader. Kenneth was predeceased in 1986 by his beloved wife, Jane G. (Ridley) Palmer. Kenneth is survived by his loving son, Richard K. Palmer and his wife Karen, of Chicopee; two cherished granddaughters, Rebecca J. Palmer and Sarah E. Palmer, of Chicopee; a sister, Charlotte White, of Florida; and Charlotte's two daughters, Paula Grey, of Florida and Sherri Ann Hollner, of New York; his uncle and boyhood guardian, Floyd Eastman, of Dorset, VT; and Floyd's two nieces, Sandy Young, of Oregon and Sheila Stanton, of New York.

Posted on USS Little Rock website: Sep. 19, 2012

Patulak, Richard J.

Richard J. Patulak died December 22, 2011 at his home in Oakland Park, Florida.

Formerly of Marlborough and Provincetown, Massachusetts, Richard graduated from Marlborough High School in the Centennial class of1960. He subsequently enlisted and spent four years in the US Navy aboard the USS Little Rock. After the Navy, he worked for many years at General Motors in Framingham before moving to Provincetown. Richard retired to Oakland Park, Florida six years ago.

He is predeceased by his parents Mero and Millissa (Bokorny) Patulak and his brother, David. He is survived by his sisters, Millissa and Mary Patulak, and Naomi Bellmore, his brothers Gerard, Michael, and Stephen Patulak, and several nieces and nephews.

A memorial mass will be held at the Immaculate Church, Prospect St. in Marlborough on Monday, January 16th at 11:00am.

Memorial contributions may be made to AIDS Project Worcester, 85 Green St, Worcester, MA 01604

Posted on USS Little Rock website: Sep. 19, 2012

Patzwahl, Donald H.

(June 4, 1928 - July 23, 2012)

Donald H. Patzwahl, 84, of Greenport, NY passed away Monday, July 23, 2012 at Community Hospice at Columbia Memorial Hospital surrounded by his loving family.

Born in Hudson, NY on June 4, 1928, he was the son of the late William and Kathryn (Buckley) Patzwahl.

Donald graduated from Hudson High School in 1946. He joined the US Navy and served two years aboard the USS Little Rock. Upon completion of his service to his country in 1948, he returned locally and worked at Hart's Express and later for Harder's Express. He was a 37 year member of Teamsters Local Union 294.

He was a life member of VFW Post 1314, a member of the American Legion Post 0001, a co-founder with Francis Keeler of the Greenport Senior Citizens Club, a life member of the Federation of Polish Sportsmen Club for 60 years, a member of St. Joseph's Church in Stottville, a member of the Greenport Fire Company #1 and also volunteered with the Greenport Fire Police. Donald served as a councilman on the Greenport Town Board for 20 years and recently served on the Greenport Planning Board. He was well-known for his wonderful sense of humor.

In 1952 he married Marion Barto Patzwahl and settled in Greenport, where they lived the rest of his life and raised their family.

Donald is survived by his beloved wife of 60 years, Marion Patzwahl; his devoted children, Scott (Nancy) Patzwahl of Valatie, Laurie (Robert) Nicholson of Claverack, and Terry (August) Abatecola of Claverack, and eight loving grandchildren, Lucas Nicholson of East Greenbush, Nathan Nicholson of Claverack, August Abatecola, Jr. of Mt Kisco, Kyle Patzwahl of Valatie, Bryanna Abatecola of Athens, Ali Phillips of San Diago, Calif., and Taylor and Hannah Patzwahl, both of Valatie. Also surviving are his brother, William Patzwahl of Claverack, his great-grandaughter, Leah Nicholson of East Greenbush, and several nieces and nephews.

He was predecased by his brother, Carroll Patzwahl.

Posted on USS Little Rock website: Sep. 19, 2012

Phelps, Wayne G.

( Nov. 21, 1953 - Oct. 21, 2012 )

Thursday, November 1, 2012

Lt. Commander Wayne Gene Phelps. 58, of Epworth GA, passed away Sunday, Oct. 21, at his home.

He was born in Oneida, N.Y., on Nov. 21, 1953, to the late Lester C. Phelps and Eileen Austin Phelps. He was retired from the United States Navy, where he was awarded a Good Conduct Medal with a Bronze Star, National Defense Service Medal with a Bronze Star, Navy Achievement Medal with a Gold Star, Sea Service Deployment Ribbon, Navy Unit Commendation, Southwest Asia Service Medal, and Expert Pistol Medal. He was of the Catholic faith.

He is survived by his wife Judith Phelps of Epworth; daughter Allison Brandenburg of Denver, CO; brothers Carl Pentland of Wisconsin and Lesley Phelps of Washburn, Maine; and a grandchild Elizabeth Phelps.

North Georgia Honor Guard provided military services Tuesday, Oct. 23, at the Akins of Blue Ridge chapel. Interment was in Chapel Hill Cemetery in Orlando, Fla., on Friday, Oct. 26.

Akins Funeral Home of Blue Ridge was in charge of the arrangements.

Posted on USS Little Rock website: Dec. 10, 2012

Pieropan, Antonio W.
(Oct. 22, 1928 - Sep. 8, 2011)

Antonio "Tony" William Pieropan, 82, of Swamp Road in West Stockbridge, MA died Thursday, September 8, 2011 at his home.

A native and lifelong resident of West Stockbridge he was born October 22, 1928, the son of Dante and Domenica Nascimbeni Pieropan. He attended local schools and graduated from the former Williams High School with the class of 1946. A veteran of World War II Tony enlisted in the United States Navy on July 5, 1946. He served on the USS Little Rock as a Fireman Apprentice before being honorably discharged on July 13, 1948 having received the World War II Victory Medal and the Navy Occupation Service Ribbon. An electrician he completed his training at Coyne's Electrical School in Chicago. He was a member of the Local #7 International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers. He worked at Oakes Electrical Supply in Pittsfield for many years, the former McGovern & Sons Electricians for 20 years and then with Ron Smith Electricians before he retired in 1992. As well as being an electrician he was a skilled craftsman doing stone masonry and woodworking. He made beautiful clocks. As an active member of the community Tony was a member of the West Stockbridge Finance Committee from 1969 - 1981 as well as the Planning Board from 1979 - 2009.

He is survived by two brothers Gino Pieropan and his wife Dorothy of West Stockbridge and Albert Pieropan and his wife Elice of Ashfield, and his sister-in-law Delores Pieropan. He also leaves his nephew Joseph Pieropan and his wife Any Mangano, his niece Maria and her husband Paul Dethier as well as several other nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his wife, the former Antonette Menegoni on October 31, 1989 as well as his brother Guido Pieropan on September 1, 2007.

Liturgy of Christian Burial will be held Monday, September 12, 2011 at 10 a.m. at St. Patrick's Church in West Stockbridge, conducted by Rev. C.J. Waitekus. Burial with Military Honors will follow at St. Patrick's Cemetery. Donations in memory of Antonio Pieropan may be made to either the St. Patrick's Church Building Fund or to the West Stockbridge Fire Department through FINNERTY & STEVENS FUNERAL HOME, 426 Main Street, Great Barrington, MA 01230. Remembrances, memories and reflections may be sent to the family through www.finnertyandstevens.com

Published in The Berkshire Eagle on September 10, 2011

(Posted on Little Rock website 09 Nov 2012)

Pingrin, Paul R.
(Aug. 23, 1932 - March 21, 2012)

Paul Raymond Pingrin, 79, of Brunswick, Ga., passed away Wednesday morning, March 21, 2012, at his residence. Born Aug. 23, 1932, in Auburn, Mr. Pingrin served with the U.S. Navy for 24 years, having served on the following ships: USS New Jersey, USS Macon, USS Little Rock, USS John Paul Jones, USS Bronson, USS Roanoke and during the Vietnam era.

After retiring from the Navy, he worked in the maintenance department of King and Prince Seafood and the U.S. Federal Building in Brunswick. He was of the Catholic faith.

Survivors include his wife of 28 years, Ellen Crews Pingrin; two sons, Scott (Gina) Pingrin and Randall (Leighann) Pingrin, both of Orlando, Fla.; a daughter, Lisa (Rev. Joe) Raney, of Seattle, Wash.; a brother, Joseph Pingrin; and a sister, Barbara DeFazio, both of Auburn; 10 grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews. Mr. Pingrin was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph and Helen Lukowski Pingrin; and his brother, Steve Pingrin.

Visitation and funeral services were held at Chapman Funeral Chapel in Brunswick, Ga., and entombment was with full military honors in Chapel Park Cemetery.

(Posted on Little Rock website 19 Sep 2012)

Pipilo, Joseph A.

Pittsburgh Post Gazette, Feb. 17, 2004

PIPILO, Joseph A. Age 74, Joe passed away peacefully with his family by his side on Sunday, February 15, 2004; loving husband of 50 years to Janet (Smith); wonderful father to sons Joseph “Jerry”, Jim and wife Lisa; also survived by three grandchildren: Gregory, Joey and Katie Pipilo; beloved brother of Rita Pipilo Hasara; preceded in death by his parents, Joseph and Carmella Pipilo and 11 brothers and sisters. Joe was a retired member of Boilermakers Local #154, a WWII Navy Veteran, proudly served on the USS Little Rock. Friends welcome Tuesday and Wednesday, 2-4 and 7-9 pm at Wm. Salter & Sons, Inc., Virginia Ave. and Kearsage St., Mt. Washington. Mass of Christian Burial Thursday, 10 am, in St. Mary of the Mount Church. Interment St. George Cemetery.

(Posted on Little Rock website 20 Aug 2012)

Quercio, Dante J.

SHREWSBURY, Mass. - Dante J. Quercio, 82, of Shrewsbury, died peacefully after a long illness on Friday, Oct. 28, 2011 in the care of his loving family.

Dante is survived by his devoted wife of 62 years, Rose (Morano) Quercio; his loving children: a son, Dante F. Quercio of Auburn, and a daughter, Maria D. Quercio and her partner Jane Saunders-Mills of Hyannis; three grandchildren of whom he was so proud, Jamie M. Quercio, Dante A. Quercio and his wife Michelle, and Marisa Leigh Dailey and her husband Ryan; four great-grandchildren: Abigail, Nicholas, Seamus, and Ella; a sister, Gloria Franciosa; two brothers, Marino Quercio and his wife Tammy of West Orange N.J., and Benny Quercio and his wife Lorraine of Las Vegas; a former daughter-in-law, Elaine Ettenberg, and many nephews, nieces, and great nephews and nieces. Dante was predeceased by a son, Peter J. Quercio who died in 1985, and six brothers, Leo, Michael, Gerry, Albert, Matteo and Frederick Jr.

Dante was born in Worcester, the son of the late Frederick J. Quercio, Sr. and Maria (Candelma) Quercio and lived in Shrewsbury most of his life. He was a graduate of Commerce High School and attended Worcester State College. He proudly served his country during WWII in the United States Navy, serving on the U.S.S. Little Rock and The U.S. S. Amphion, and was an Underwater Demolition Diver. Dante worked for the Commonwealth Gas Company in Worcester for 45 years as a surveyor and senior advisor before he retired.

He loved being outdoors and was an avid hunter and fisherman. He enjoyed creative writing, working on several inventions of his own, and tinkering in his woodworking shop. But his most precious times were those spent with his family, especially his grandchildren and great-grandchildren on Cape Cod. He will be dearly missed by his family and friends. Dante was a long-time member of St Anne's Church in Shrewsbury, the Knights of Columbus Pope John Council 5481, and the East-Side Post #201 American Legion.

Dante's funeral will be held Thursday from the Mercadante Funeral Home & Chapel, 370 Plantation St. with a Mass of Christian burial at 10 a.m. in the Church of St. Anne, 130 Boston Turnpike, Shrewsbury. Calling hours in the funeral home are from 4 to 7 p.m. on Wednesday. Entombment will be in St. Johns Cemetery Mausoleum. Member's of the Pope John Council will meet at 6:30 p.m. for their ritual, and members of the East Side Post #201 will meet at 6:45 for their ritual.

Revitzer, Kirk D.
Jun. 20, 1949 - Sep. 30, 2010

Kirk David Revitzer, 61, of Lewiston, MI, passed away on September 30, 2010 at Northern Michigan Hospital in Petoskey.

He was born on June 20, 1949 to Max and Antoinette (LoVasco) Revitzer in Detroit, MI. He served his country during Vietnam in the US Navy. He has lived in Lewiston for the past 20 yrs, formerly of Detroit. He worked for AT&T in Detroit for many years, and was currently working in the kitchen at Garland resort and had worked at the Villager Restaurant in Lewiston in the past. He was a licensed HAMM radio operator. When he was able, he enjoyed riding his Yamaha motorcycle. Kirk loved computer technology, he was a true hobbyist and enjoyed helping his friends with computer repairs.

Kirk is survived by three cousins, James, John, and Vince LoVasco; and roommate, Chris Spencer.

As were his wishes, cremation has taken place and there are no services for Mr Revitzer planned at this time.

(Posted on Little Rock website 09 Nov 2012)

Ross, Lewis N.
(Aug. 24, 1927 - Sep. 26, 2012)

Lewis N. Ross, 85, of Mentor, Ohio passed away Wednesday, Sept. 26, 2012, at the Cleveland Clinic with his family by his side. Born Aug. 24, 1927, in Derry, Pa., Mr. Ross served in the U.S. Navy aboard the U.S.S. Little Rock.

Lewis enjoyed golfing in the Masonic Golf League and boating. He belonged to GM Supervisor Retiree Club. He was a 50-year member of Mentor United Methodist Church, a member of U.S.S. Little Rock Association, Mentor American Legion, a 32 degree F and AM Temple Lodge 28 in Painesville, Eagle Shrine Club in Mentor and Al Koran of Cleveland. Lewis worked for Fisher Body as a supervisor until his retirement.

Survivors include his wife of 65 years, Ann (Cowan) Ross; children, Robert (Patricia) Ross of Channahon, Ill. and Scott (Valerie) Ross of Concord Township; grandchildren, Christopher, Jeffery (Kate), Bryan, Kathryn (Aaron), Eric and Ryan; great-grandchildren, Isaac and Logan; brother, Paul (Jean) Ross of South Hadley, Mass.; sisters and brothers-in-law, Lois (Jim) Parkinson and Phyllis and Norman Melchreit, all of Mentor. He was preceded in death by his parents, Lewis Sr. and Ada Ross.

The funeral service will be held 10 a.m. Saturday September 29, 2012 in the Chapel at Mentor United Methodist Church, 8600 Mentor Ave., Mentor.

The family will receive friends from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. Friday at Brunner Sanden Deitrick Funeral Home and Cremation Center, 8466 Mentor Ave., Mentor. Interment will be in Mentor Cemetery.

(Posted on Little Rock website 06 Nov 2012)

Roth, Raymond
(Feb. 20, 1929 - July 12, 2012)

Raymond Roth, Former Holland, NY resident, served on USS Little Rock.

Raymond A. Roth of Deleon Springs, Fla., a longtime resident of Holland, NY who moved to Florida in 1987, died Thurs., July 12, 2012. He was 83.

(Posted on Little Rock website 18 Sep. 2012)

Rozier, Charles P.
(Nov. 25, 1920 - April 15, 2012)

Capt. Charles Preston Rozier Sr. USN (ret) ("Charlie"), 91, a resident of Ingleside at Rock Creek in Washington D.C., died peacefully on Sunday, April 15, 2012, of cancer.

Captain Rozier was born on November 25, 1920 in Sparta, Georgia, the sixth of seven children of Elleene Burnet Rozier and Edward Alexander Rozier II. He attended Emory University in Atlanta and was later appointed to the U.S. Naval Academy at Annapolis, MD. Graduating in 1943, he was immediately sent overseas, first seeing action aboard the U.S.S. Tuscaloosa at the Battle of Normandy, and subsequently serving in the Pacific at the Battle of Okinawa. In 1962, as commander of the U.S.S. Charles P. Cecil, he was instrumental in forcing a Russian submarine to surface during the Cuban Missile Crisis. During the Vietnam War, he was commander of the U.S.S. Camden, and later served as Commodore of a destroyer squadron.

Over the course of his naval career, Captain Rozier was awarded numerous medals and honors, including the Bronze Star, Navy Commendation Medal, and Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal; and obtained graduate degrees from MIT and Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute.

After his retirement from the Navy in 1972, Captain Rozier worked for twenty years as a systems analyst for TRW in McLean, VA. At the age of 72 he retired, and for the next twenty years volunteered for Accuracy in Media in Washington D.C.

Mr. Rozier enjoyed singing with the Ingleside Singers at his retirement community where he also chaired two committees.

He is survived by his wife of 61 years, Clair Price Rozier; their three children, Charles Preston Rozier Jr., Louis Harris Rozier II, and Clair Rozier Reid; five grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his sister, Frances Rozier Birdsong, and his brother, Louis Harris Rozier, both of Sparta, Georgia.

Memorial services will be held at the Columbarium of the U. S. Naval Academy, Annapolis, MD on May 14th at 11:00am.. Memorial contributions may be made to the U. S. Naval Academy Annual Fund at the following address: USNAF Gift Processing, 291 Wood Road , Annapolis, MD 21402.
Published online on April 24, 2012 courtesy of RAPP Funeral and Cremation Services

(Posted on Little Rock website 06 Nov 2012)

Ruehle, Richard W.
(April 27, 1927 - September 15, 2012)

PLEASANT VALLEY - Richard W. Ruehle, age 85, died Saturday, September 15, 2012 at Vassar Brother's Hospital after a brief illness.

Richard was born April 27, 1927 the son of Fred Ruehle and Rose (Keller) Ruehle. A graduate of Arlington High School, Richard enlisted in the Navy in 1945. His tour of duty included the Atlantic, South Atlantic, and the Mediterranean aboard the light cruisers USS Fargo and USS Little Rock.

On October 4, 1953 he married Margaret Plunkett at St. Stanislaus Church in Pleasant Valley. Mrs. Ruehle predeceased him on November 20, 2010.

Richard had a 38 year career with IBM retiring as a computer operator in the new product test department. Richard loved the outdoors and enjoyed hiking, camping, and fishing with family and friends.

Richard is survived by sister-in-law Constance Ruehle, son Stephen and his wife Valerie, grandson Stephen, son Robert, son James and his wife Cris, and several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his wife Margaret, brothers Roy and Alfred, and sister Mildred Cox.

Visitation will be Wednesday, September 19 from 7-9 pm at Allen Funeral Home, 1605 Main St., Pleasant Valley. A Mass of Christian Burial will be offered Thursday, September 20 at 11 am from St. Stanislaus Church, Pleasant Valley. Interment will follow in Calvary Cemetery, Poughkeepsie.

Memorial donations may be made in Richard's memory to Hospice of Dutchess County, 374 Violet Ave, Poughkeepsie, N.Y. 12601-1034 (www.hospiceinc.org).

If you would like to sign a guestbook for Richard and directions, please visit www.HudsonValleyFuneralHomes.com

Published in the Poughkeepsie Journal from September 17 to September 19, 2012

(Posted on Little Rock website 11 Mar 2013)

Rumbaugh, Robert C.
(November 13, 1925 - November 14, 2010)

Robert Charles Rumbaugh, 85, of Westminster, died Sunday, Nov. 14, 2010, at John Hopkins Hospital.

Born Nov. 13, 1925, in Spangler, Pa., he was the son of the late Maude DeLancey Rumbaugh and Charles W. Rumbaugh. He was the husband of Marguerite Rumbaugh, his wife of 53 years, who died in 2003. He was a veteran of the Navy. Before retiring, he worked as a public school music teacher and band director the in the Uniontown, Pa., Area School District. He also served as a choral director for Asbury United Methodist Church and Trinity Presbyterian Church. He worshipped at New Hope Fellowship Church, was an artist, painter, played the piano at Westminster Ridge, and enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren. Surviving are sons and daughters-in-law William and Kelly Rumbaugh, of Westminster, and Richard and Cindy Rumbaugh, of Durham, N.C.; and 14 grandchildren. He was predeceased by a sister, Olive Mulholland.

The family will receive friends from 3 to 5 and 7 to 9 p.m. Thursday at Fletcher Funeral Home, 254 E. Main St., Westminster. A funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. Friday at the funeral home, with his son, the Rev. Bill Rumbaugh officiating. Private interment will be held in Lafayette Memorial Park in Uniontown, Pa. Memorial contributions may be sent to the Hampstead/Hanover Youth for Christ, P.O. Box 1, Hampstead, MD 21074. Online condolences may be offered at www.fletcherfuneralhome.net. Sign this guest book online at www.carrollcountytimes.com.

(Posted on Little Rock website 03 January 2013)

Rusby, Paul G.
(January 21, 1926 - April 1, 2012)

Paul George Rusby, 86, passed away Sunday, April 1, 2012, at his home in Arlington, Virginia surrounded by the company of his loving family.

Paul was born January 21, 1926 in Somerville, New Jersey to Paul Rusby and Marjory Hope Rusby. He and his sister Doris (Eberly) grew up in Middlebury, Vermont. Paul graduated high school in 1944 from Horace Mann Lincoln School in New York City, and enlisted in the US Navy serving in World War II on the USS Little Rock and USS Crescent City. Honorably discharged in 1946, Paul, a proficient clarinet player, attended Oberlin College, graduating in 1950. Following graduation, Paul bicycled throughout Europe and found himself in Naples, Italy where he developed a keen interest in international development and reconstruction. While in Naples, Paul worked with displaced families and the homeless who were living in caves following World War II and he co-founded Italy's first social settlement center providing medical, food and educational services. Upon his return to the US, Paul entered Haverford College where he received his Masters in International Development.

Paul's career in international development began first with CARE in the late 50s through mid-60s, serving in India, Vietnam, Bangladesh (East Pakistan) and Afghanistan. Following his service with CARE, Paul joined the US Foreign Service and entered USAID, where he focused on disaster relief, maternal and child nutrition and food security. With USAID, Paul served in India, Afghanistan, Senegal, and Egypt with numerous TDY postings in Asia, Central America and Africa. Paul retired from the Foreign Service in 1990 and was asked to rejoin twice on contract first to Russia and then to Haiti in 1995-1997.

Paul's first marriage was to Joan Blakelock in 1954. They had one daughter Sue Rusby (Harrison). Some years later, the marriage ended in divorce.

On October 21, 1961, Paul married Sheroo Motivala, his partner in both love and life for the past 50 years, with whom he had two children, Paul Baman and Shireen Marjory.

Paul was blessed by his three children, seven grandchildren, Mason, Melanie, Meryl, Maya, Kayla, Jahan and Tate, and 4 great-grandchildren.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to CARE (www.care.org) in his name.

(Posted on Little Rock website 19 Sep. 2012)

Rusch, Carl G.
Dec. 30, 1928 - Dec. 14, 2012

Carl George Rusch, 83, went safely home to the arms of Jesus on Saturday, December 15, 2012. Carl was born on December 30, 1928 to Otto and Viola (Seidlitz) Rusch in Shawano, WI.

Carl served in the United States Navy aboard the U.S.S. Little Rock. He married the love of his life Caroline Neuman on July 15, 1950. Carl worked as a construction foreman. Later, he worked for Treasure Island and the J.C. Penny Company as head security guard and maintenance manager.

Carl, like his Lord and Savior was a master carpenter. He built three homes and was always happy to help others with their building projects. His most recent construction site was their cottage in Gresham, WI. He started building it from scratch when he was 70 years old. Carl was a life- long fisherman starting to fish with his father Otto as a young boy. He enjoyed traveling, grilling brats for family gatherings, and hosting holidays at his home. Carl was a man of integrity an example of a true follower of Christ.

He will be sadly missed by his wife, Caroline. Daughters: Marlene (Kenneth) LeNoble, Noreen Scruton and Sharon (Charles) Howell. Grandchildren: Jennifer (Jeremy) Cole, Jesse (Sandy) LeNoble, Benjamin (fianc√©e' Jessi Seward), Krystle LeNoble, Jason Stroik, Joshua Stroik, Justin Stroik, Jeremy (Stacy) Stroik, Sara Howell, Caleb Howell, and thirteen great grandchildren. Godson, Mark (Linda) Meidam, Sisters-in-law: Jessie Neuman and Jane Neuman. Dear friends Kenny and Monika Perry and many other loving nieces, nephews, friends and relatives. Carl was preceded in death by his parents, beloved daughter, Yvonne Rusch, son-in-law, Richard Scruton, Brothers and sisters, Earl Rusch, Beatrice Mielke, June Meidam and Gerald Rusch.

Services for Carl will be held 11:00 AM Thursday, December 20, 2012 at the funeral home, with Pastor Kenneth Berndt officiating. Interment will follow immediately at Highland Memorial Park. The family will greet friends from 9:00 AM until the time of the service.

(Posted on Little Rock website 11 Mar. 2013)

Sebastian, Joseph E.
(September 9, 1939 - September 18, 2012)

Joseph E. Sebastian, 73, of 502 E. Mahanoy Ave., Mahanoy City, passed away Tuesday in Ontario, Canada.

Born in Mahanoy City, PA on Sept. 9, 1939, he was a son of the late James and Kathryn Kratson Sebastian.

He graduated from the former Mahanoy City High School, Class of 1957.

He served in the Navy during the Vietnam War on the USS Little Rock.

He was retired from Pemco Corp., Philadelphia.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by two sons, James, in 2008, and Charles, in infancy.

Surviving are a daughter, Nicole, wife of Peter Stetson, Barnesville; two grandchildren, Cody and Ashley; two sisters, Janet Sebastian, Pittsburgh, and Bernice Vicek, Tamaqua; a brother, Chester Sebastian, Emmaus; nieces, nephews and cousins.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Friday at Jane Clifford Ritz Funeral Home, 19 E. Mahanoy Ave., Mahanoy City, with the Rev. Janet Kline officiating. Interment will be in Sacred Heart Cemetery, Mahanoy Township. Friends may call from 9 a.m. until the time of services at the funeral home. Jane Clifford Ritz Funeral Home, Franklin R. Fetter, funeral director, is in charge of arrangements.

Published in Republican & Herald on September 20, 2012

(Posted on Little Rock website 11 Mar 2013)

Sheppard, John "Shep" R. CDR USN
(July 6, 1922 - August 8, 2011)

It would appear that no formal obituary was published for shipmate CDR John "Shep" R. Sheppard. In lieu of an obituary we will post comments and remembrances from shipmates and friends here. (A great place to read about Cdr. Sheppard's Navy and USS Little Rock experiences is on his Oral History page.)

•   The following notice was published in the San Diego Union-Tribune on August 12, 2011:

   SHEPPARD, JOHN R. of San Diego
   July 6, 1922 - August 8, 2011
         Visitation on 8/18 from 6:30-8:00p with a Rosary at 7pm at Our Mother of Confidence.
         Mass 8/19, 10:30am at OMC.
         Clairemont Mortuary Directors 858-279-2211

Here are some thoughts about "Shep" received from friends and shipmates.

•    "..... I am greatly upset. John was one of my most important mentors in the Wardroom when I came aboard as an Ensign. While he portrayed a rather gruff exterior, the man was a huge teddy bear for sure. I loved him."
Jerry Dupuis

•    "This is a loss to us all……….he was a fine officer and a fine gentleman!"
Steve Chase

•     "We lost a great shipmate."
Woody Donaldson

•     "John Sheppard, better know as "Shep" was a CO-Founder of the Little Rock Assn. and provided valuable leadership during our early years. ...... It's sad to hear about the loss of "Shep".   Many don't realize the role he played in forming our organization back in 1991. He provided much guidance during the first year or two and didn't complain about the extensive travel from California. H of course is one of the four founders of the Little Rock Assn."
Don Schuld

•     "And could John tell a story. A raconteur in the finest sense of the word."
Bill Stankiewicz

(Posted on Little Rock website 21 Sept 2011)

Silloway, Richard F.
(1941 - January 8, 2010)

Richard Frank (Dick) Silloway was born in 1941 in Philadelphia, PA. He grew up on Long Island, NY and after high school enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps. He served as a sea-going Marine for nearly three years, and while deployed aboard the USS LITTLE ROCK (CLG-4) received an appointment to the U.S. Naval Academy from the Secretary of the Navy.

After graduating near the top of his class from the Academy in 1966, Dick married his long-time girlfriend and the love of his life Beverly Lois Gordon in their hometown of Garden City, NY. He was selected as a Fulbright scholar but instead accepted a position in the Navy's elite nuclear power program. He served aboard both fast attack and fleet ballistic missile submarines during the height of the Cold War.

In 1979 he left active duty service and transferred to the Naval Reserve as an Engineering Duty Officer. In his civilian career Dick worked for a number of naval architecture firms, eventually retiring from the marine engineering department of Exxon in 1996. That same year he also retired from the Navy with the rank of Captain.

In 1998 Dick was invited to participate as the chief forensics engineer on a research team examining the wreckage of RMS TITANIC. The expedition was captured by the Discovery Channel and Dick was featured prominently in their subsequent documentary "Titanic: Answers from the Abyss." His work made several notable scientific contributions to the understanding of the TITANIC tragedy and disproved many long-held assumptions and misconceptions.

Dick spent his semi-retirement years as a consultant for Engineering Partners International. He was an active member of the community in both his hometown of Humble, TX and his newly-adopted summer residence of Eureka Springs, AR.

Captain Silloway, USNR (Ret), 68, died January 8, 2010. He is survived by Beverly - his wife of 43 years, his three children, and eight grandchildren to whom he will always be known as "Pakka."

Visitation is Friday, January 15, 5:30 to 7:30 pm at Kingwood Funeral Home. A memorial service will be held at 2:00 pm Saturday, January 16, at Christ The King Episcopal Church, 19330 Pinehurst Trail, Humble, TX 77346.

The family has asked that in lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to:
Christ the King Episcopal Church in Humble, TX (http://repearworld.net/ctkatascocita/index.html),
The Choir Fund at St. James Episcopal Church in Eureka Springs, AR (http://www.stjameseurekasprings.org),
Golden Retriever Rescue of Houston (http://www.grrh.org/05Donations/donations.htm)

(Posted on Little Rock website 11 Mar 2013)

Smith, John W. "Jack"

(1933 - May 21, 2011)

CHESAPEAKE VA - John W. "Jack" Smith, LCDR, USN (Ret.), passed away on Saturday, May 21, 2011 in a local hospital after a brief illness.

Jack was born in Kingston, PA. in 1933 and was raised in Clymer, PA. He enlisted in the Navy upon graduation from Clymer High School and served 28 years on active duty.

He began his Navy career as an electricians mate aboard USS Tabberer (DE-418), and during his career completed many overseas deployments aboard USS Dukes County (LST-735), USS Embattle (MSO-434), USS Little Rock (CLG-4), USS John F. Kennedy (CV-67), and USS Savannah (AOR-4). He also completed several shore assignments including security officer at SPCC Mechanicsburg, PA.; Inspection and Survey (INSURV) Board, Norfolk, VA.; and his final duty station as a ship superintendent at NNSY Portsmouth. He retired from active duty in 1978, but continued to serve the Navy in a civilian capacity at QED Systems Inc. where he developed repair plans for Navy ships until finally retiring in1995. He lived in Virginia Beach for many years, later moving to Chesapeake in 1994. He was a quiet man with a sharp wit and a surprising sense of humor; a devoted family man and husband; a fan of the Atlanta Braves, Washington Redskins, and most of all NASCAR's late, great Dale Earnhardt; and a proud Navy veteran.

Jack was predeceased by his parents, Agnes and Jay W. Smith of Clymer, PA.; his brother, Jay D. Smith of Long Beach, CA.; and in 2002 by his wife, Catherine Marie Smith, a Clymer native. He is survived by his children: John M. Smith and his wife Susan of Chesapeake; Patricia L. Vredenburg and her husband, Eric of Houston, TX.; Christine M. Smith of Cochranville, PA.; and Martin J. Smith and his wife Kim of Virginia Beach.

(Posted on Little Rock website 19 Sept 2012)

Stone, Ernest R., Jr.
1935 - 2008

Ernest R. "Ernie" Stone Jr., 73, a retired Navy chief warrant officer and a co-founder of AMSEC, LLC, a full service supplier to the Navy and commercial maritime industry, died Aug. 24, 2008, of a heart attack.

Ernie was an avid adventurer, accomplished in sailing, flying, snow and water skiing and flight instruction. He also worked avidly in his garden, specializing in fruit trees and roses. He loved to travel the world, and lived in the Philippines, Italy, Virginia Beach, St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands, Highland Beach, Fla., and Northern California.

During his naval career of 25 years, he served on USS Wisconsin BB-64, USS Columbus CA 74, USS Little Rock CLG 4, USS Vulcan AR 5 and was part of the pre-commissioning team for the USS Virginia CGN 38 in 1976. Ernie was born in Belding, Mich., the son of Ernest Stone and Angie Hardin-Stone. He attended the University of Michigan but joined the Navy in 1953 before graduating. He attended numerous training programs in the Navy and specialized in electrical and systems engineering. His first overseas assignment was as a radar communications specialist stationed in the Philippines.

He married Sandra Lynn "Sandy" Meyer in 1959, in Orinda, Calif. After retiring from the Navy in 1977, CWO-4 Stone co-founded AMSEC LLC with several other naval officers and was involved in developing ship communication and control systems with the Atlantic fleet. Ernie retired from AMSEC in 1989 to pursue his passions of sailing, flying and traveling. Ernie and Sandy spent five years on their beloved sloop "Chardonnay" in St. Thomas, U.S. Virginia Islands. After hurricane Marilyn devastated St. Thomas in 1995, Ernie and Sandy moved to Florida. Most recently, the couple had been living in Lincoln, Calif.

Survivors include his wife of 49 years, Sandy; his god daughter, Sloan Baldwin of Huntsville, Ala.;, his extended in-law family of Keith and Lindsay Meyer of San Jose, Calif., Richard and Diane Meyer of Mandeville, La., and Dennis and Dorothy Meyer of Buckeye, Ariz.; four nieces; his cousin, Lamar Hardin of Dalton, Ga.; and many friends across the United States.

(Posted on Little Rock website 11 Mar 2013)

Taaffe, Philip G.

December 13, 1925 - November 28, 2011

Philip George Taaffe, 85, of Prospect St., Keene, NH died Monday night at the Genesis Eldercare – Keene Center, following a period of declining health.

He was born in Keene on December 13, 1925 and attended local schools, graduating from Keene High School in 1943. Mr. Taaffe enlisted into the United States Navy after High School and served during World War II. He was very proud of being the first crew on the USS Little Rock. After an honorable discharge, he returned to Keene where he worked for Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company as a Manager for 22 years. He then worked for Cheshire Oil and retired from there in order to spend more time with his grandchildren. On November 15, 1947 he married Frances P. Kelly in a ceremony in Keene.

Mr. Taaffe was an 8 year City Councilor of Ward 3 here in Keene, he was a member of the Lions Club and volunteered time for the Cheshire County Historical Society. He was also a Lifetime member of Saint Bernard's Catholic Church. He enjoyed and found success in restoring Antique Travel Trunks and Steamer Chests, and there was a Monadnock Profile written about him in the Keene Sentinel. He was an avid fan of playing Golf and Tennis, having a membership at the Keene Country Club. When not working on trunks he enjoyed building clocks from kits and dabbling in his collector hobbies of N scale model trains and collecting stamps and coins.

Mr. Taaffe is survived by his wife of 64 years, Frances P. Taaffe of Keene; two sons: Paul Kelly Taaffe and his wife Debra of Jaffrey and P. Nickalos Taaffe and his fiancée, Christine Young of Stoddard; a brother: Roy Carroll; one sister, Ellen Mason and her husband Robert all of Keene; as well as two grandchildren: Molly Taaffe and Alexander Taaffe, both of Jaffrey. He is predeceased by two sisters, Dorothy Kazanas and Ann Ladam.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Bernard's Catholic Church in Keene on Friday at 10:00. Burial will follow at St. Joseph's Cemetery. Calling Hours will be held Thursday from 5:00 until 7:00 at the Fletcher Funeral Home.

Memorial Donations may be made in Mr. Philip G. Taaffe's name to the Historical Society of Cheshire County (www.hsccnh.org/), 246 Main Street Keene, NH 03431-4143.

Thomas, Julian J., Jr.

(Oct. 10, 1927 - Oct. 15, 2008)

Retired U.S. Navy Rear Adm. Julian Johnson Thomas Jr., Dental Corps, 81, died Wednesday Oct. 15, 2008, at Harbor's Edge, Norfolk, VA.

Adm. Thomas was born in Nashville, Tenn., to Julian J. and Martha Warner Thomas on Oct. 10, 1927. After graduating from Sewanee Military Academy, he attended Vanderbilt University and received a D.D.S. degree from the University of Tennessee College of Dentistry and an M.S.D. degree from Indiana University's Dental School. Adm. Thomas served his general internship at the Philadelphia Naval Hospital. This was followed by two years aboard the USS Albany and two years aboard the USS Little Rock, home ported in Norfolk. He was assigned to the faculty at the Navy Post Graduate Dental School in Bethesda, Md., (1967-70). There he had additional duty as the White House dentist during the Johnson administration. Various assignments followed, including a four-year tour in Naples, Italy and a tour as commanding officer of the Regional Dental Center at Parris Island, S.C. He was promoted to rear admiral and assigned as Inspector General of the Dental Corps. Adm. Thomas later became commanding officer of the Regional Dental Center in San Diego. After retiring from the Navy, he became chairman of the Department of Operative Dentistry at the Dental School at Northwestern University. Adm. Thomas was a fellow of the American College of Dentists, the International College of Dentists, the Academy of Gold Foil Operators and the American Dental Association, a member of the American Academy of Restorative Dentists and the Academy of Operative Dentistry and a founding member of the American Board of Operative Dentistry.

Adm. Thomas is survived by his wife, Joan White Thomas; a daughter, Martha Rita Thomas of Norfolk; a son, Dr. Julian Johnson Thomas III and his wife Kimberly of Greenville S.C.; his sister, Susan Thomas Castner and her husband Harold of Nashville; nephews, Corbin Johnson and family, Graham Johnson and family, Davis Johnson and family, Vernon Buchman and family and James Buchman and family; as well as numerous cousins.

(Posted on the USS Little Rock website 19 Sep 2012)

Thompson, Benford C.
( Jan. 5, 1944 - May 5, 2009)

OKOLONA, MS - Benford Carlton "Ben" Thompson, 65, died Tuesday, May 5, 2009, at his residence in Okolona.

He was born on Jan. 5, 1944, in Amory to Johnny Merl Thompson and Thelma Francis Thompson Riggan. He graduated from Amory High School and served for three years in the U.S. Navy aboard the U.S.S. Little Rock from 1961-1965. He saw action at the Bay of Pigs. He retired in February 2009 after 32 years service to Tecumseh Products. He had resided in Okolona for 13 years, moving there from the Tupelo area where he lived 18 years. He enjoyed life fully and enjoyed large meals with family and friends, laughter, riding his trike bike and reading, but most important in his life were his wife, children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren whom he adored and doted on. He was a Baptist.

A private family funeral service will be held with Bro. Sean Tutor officiating and Eddie McPherson delivering the eulogy. Visitation will be from 4 to 7 p.m. Friday at the Tupelo Chapel of Holland-Harris Funeral Directors. Cremation will follow the visitation.

Survivors include his wife, Linda Thompson of Okolona; four sons, Johnny Edward Thompson of Springfield, Ill., Tommy Dale Thompson (Cindy) of Aberdeen, Myles A. Terry of Okolona and Samuel E. Terry (Wanda) of Laredo, Texas; five daughters, Cynthia Morton of Shannon, Miriam Souter of Baldwyn, Carol Patterson (Johnny) of Shannon, Kathy Terry of Tupelo and Shannon Baswell (Robert) of Shannon; 26 grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren including Lacey "Lady" and Chloe "Twig"; two sisters, Janelle Payne (Robert) of Booneville and Darlene Heidbreder of Pensacola, Fla.; two brothers, Bobby Thompson (Utaka) of Pensacola, Fla., and Douglas Riggan (Charlie) of Robertsdale, Ala.; numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, aunts and uncles.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his stepfather, Bernard Ray "Dagwood" Riggan, who raised him.

Memorials may be made to the American Heart Association, P.O. Box 16808, Jackson, MS 39236.

(Posted on the USS Little Rock website 19 Sep 2012)

Toomey, Martin J., Jr.
(1927 - Apr. 16, 2008)

Martin J. Toomey, Jr., 81, of Chase Farm Road, South Windsor, and formerly of Warwick, RI, died on Wednesday, (April 16, 2008) at St. Francis Hospital in Hartford. He was the husband of Florence E. (Finnegan) Toomey.

Born in East Providence, RI, a son of the late Martin J. and Rose A. (McKenna) Toomey, he lived in Warwick, RI for 37 years before moving to South Windsor in 1997. He was a Navy veteran of World War II, and a 1950 graduate of Providence College.

Mr. Toomey was a sales representative for Nabisco for 38 years, retiring in 1989. A former communicant of St. Benedict Church in Warwick, RI, he was the first president of St. Benedict's parish council. He loved golf, and was a member of the Men's Senior Golf League in South Windsor.

Besides his loving wife, he is survived by a daughter, Maureen A. Pearson and her husband David of South Windsor, three beloved grandchildren, Katherine, Emily, and Carolyn Pearson; a sister, Karen M. Remley of Warwick, RI, and many nieces and nephews; He was the brother of the late Roslyn M. Grady.

His funeral will be held on Saturday, April 19, at 8 a.m. from the Peter J. Barrett Funeral Home, 1328 Warwick Avenue, Warwick, RI, with a Mass of Christian Burial at 9 a.m. in St. Benedict Church, 135 Beach Avenue, Warwick.

Visiting hours are Friday 4-7 p.m. Burial with military honors will be in St. Joseph Cemetery, West Greenwich, RI.

Contributions in his memory may be made to The St. Vincent de Paul Society, c/o St. Margaret Mary Church, 80 Hayes Rd., South Windsor, CT 06074.

Published in The Hartford Courant on April 17, 2008

(Posted on the USS Little Rock website 31 May 2013)

Ulanoski, Joseph P.

October 2, 1943 - July 31, 2011
Winter Springs, Florida

Joe passed away July 31, 2011 with his loving wife and daughter by his side.

He was born October 2, 1943 in Nanticoke, PA and grew up in Berwick, PA. After graduation from Berwick High School, Class of 1961, he proudly served in the U.S. Navy on the U.S.S. Little Rock (CLG 4).

Most of his career years as an electronic engineer were spent in Massachusetts at Raytheon and Prime Computer.

For the past 20 years, Joe enjoyed his retirement living in Winter Springs, Fl, playing golf, traveling wth his wife visiting family and friends, and listening to music from the "good old days".

Joe is survived by his wife, Barbara, daughter, Joselle, two brothers, Jim and Bob, and his sister, Pat.

A memorial service will be held in Berwick, PA at a later date.

Donations may be made in his memory to the charity of your choice.

Vaitiskis, Charles F.
(May 29, 1943 - December 25, 2012)

Charles F. "Chuck" Vaitiskis, 69, of Fitzwilliam, NH, died Christmas morning, December 25, 2012, at his home after a long struggle with Asbestosis and Cancer.

Chuck was born in Lawrence, MA on May 29, 1943, son of the late Charles A. and Frances (Kudronwcy) Vaitiskis. He attended schools in Methuen, MA and studied Electricity at Haverhill Trade School in Haverhill, MA.

Chuck entered the U.S. Navy in 1960 and retired as a Chief Petty Officer in 1981. During his Naval career of over 20 years, he had been stationed aboard the Cruiser U.S.S. Little Rock; the Destroyer U.S.S. Hugh Purvis; the Destroyer Tender U.S.S. Yosemite; the Submarine Tender U.S.S. Hunley; the Submarine Tender U.S.S. Fulton; the Destroyer U.S.S. Harlan R. Dickson; the Repair Ship U.S.S. Grand Canyon; the Aircraft Carrier U.S.S. John F. Kennedy; and the Destroyer U.S.S. Damato.

After retiring from the Navy and from 1985 to 1989, Chuck worked at the U.S. Postal Service in Manchester, NH. In 1990, he applied for and received his Merchant Marine Document as an unlicensed Seaman and returned to sea. He sailed as a QMED (Qualified Member of the Engine Department) with the U.S. Coast Guard endorsements of Fireman/Water Tender, Oiler, Pumpman, Junior Engineer, Refrigeration Engineer, Wiper, Engineman and Electrician. He sailed until 1997 when he met his current wife, Linda L. (Soltysik) Vaitiskis. They married in 1998 and lived in Jaffrey, NH until 2002, when they settled into the home they built in Fitzwilliam, NH.

Chuck was past commander of the Jaffrey Memorial Post 5613 and a life member of the V.F.W. He was a member of John Humiston Post 11 of the American Legion in Jaffrey, NH, a life member in Chapter 1 Disabled American Veterans, and a member at large in the Fleet Reserve Association. Chuck was a member of the Knights of Columbus, Our Lady of Monadnock Council 8544 and a Sir Knight with Saint Patrick Assembly 2129. He was a communicant and active member of Saint Patrick Parish where he frequently served at Funeral Masses. Chuck was a life member of the NRA and enjoyed hunting and fishing.

Chuck was formerly married to Joyce B. (Clarkson) Vaitiskis.

He is survived by his wife of 15 years, Linda L. Vaitiskis of Fitzwilliam, NH; his daughter Karyn E. (Vaitiskis) Arruda of Somerset, MA; his son Matthew C. Vaitiskis of Dorchester, MA; Linda's 4 children, Tracie L. Wright of Royalston, MA, Bryan Soltysik and Andrew Soltysik, both of Athol, MA and Kevin Soltysik of Barre, MA; 13 grandchildren; 2 sisters, Joan Russo of Haverhill, MA and Karen Vaitiskis of Arlington, VA, and many nieces, nephews, cousins and close friends.

Friends and family are invited to calling hours on Sunday, December 30, 2012 from 6:00 to 8:00 PM at the Cournoyer Funeral Home & Cremation Center, 33 River Street, (Route 202) Jaffrey.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Monday December 31, 2012 at 11:00 AM at Saint Patrick Church, 89 Main Street, Jaffrey. Rev. Wilfred Deschamps, Pastor of Saint Patrick Church in Jaffrey will officiate and Military Honors will be conducted after Mass. Burial will take place in the spring in Saint Patrick Cemetery.

For those who wish, memorial contributions may be made to Saint Patrick School, 70 Main Street, Jaffrey, NH 03452.

The Cournoyer Funeral Home and Cremation Center, 33 River Street, Jaffrey is assisting Chuck's family. To view his permanent online memorial or to send a condolence to Chuck's family, please visit www.cournoyerfh.com.

(Posted on the USS Little Rock website 11 Mar 2013)

Wagner, Lawrence P.
(September 19, 1940 - September 10, 2012)

Rochester, NY: Lawrence P. "Larry" "Wags" Wagner, passed peacefully on September 10, 2012 after a long battle with Parkinson's Disease. He was surrounded by family and the caring staff of the Jewish Home of Rochester.

Larry was born on September 19, 1940 in Rochester, NY to Lawrence C. and Winifred (Hogan) Wagner.

Pre-deceased by his sister, Frances Wagner (Johnson). He is survived by his children, Gavin (Elizabeth Greaves) Wagner, Wendy (Douglas) Rose; grandchildren, Sarah, Emily, Zachary and Emma; great-granddaughter, Rachel; sisters, Dorthy Korn, Mary Louise Chaffer Kathryn Wagner. Larry was proud veteran of the U.S. Navy where he cruised the Mediterranean Sea as a member of the crew of the U.S.S. Little Rock.

Friends may call Thursday, 2-4 & 7-9 PM at the funeral chapel (2305 Monroe Ave.). A Funeral Service will be held at Friday, 9 AM at the All Season's Chapel at White Haven Memorial Park, 210 Marsh Road, Pittsford.

The family requests that any donations, in lieu of flowers, be sent to The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research at www.michaeljfox.org/donate or The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research, Grand Central Station, PO Box 4777, New York, NY 10163-4777. To share a memory or photo of Larry visit www.anthonychapels.com.

(Posted on the USS Little Rock website 11 Mar 2013)

Whittington, Patrick D.

Mar, 17, 1955 - Sep. 8, 2012

Patrick Dean Whittington, 57, of Hedgesville, WV passed away Saturday, Sept. 8, 2012, at City Hospital.

Born March 17, 1955, in Martinsburg, WV, he was the son of the late Harvey C. Whittington and Beatrice Donaldson Whittington.

He was a veteran of the U.S. Army and the U.S. Marines, where he served on the USS Little Rock (1975-1976). He was a mechanical engineer at Bethesda Naval Walter Reed Hospital.

He is survived by his wife, Helen Carnegie Whittington; two sons, Michael and Alexander Whittington; two children from a prior marriage, Patrick and Jessica Whitttington; and his siblings, Harvey Thomas Whittington, of Dover, Del., Gail Swanson, of Port Charlotte, Fla., David Whittington, of Clear Water, Fla., J. Mark Whittington, of Stone Mt., Ga., Nancy Fox of Hedgesville, Martha Nadenbausgh, of Clear Water, Victoria Rhoe, of State Line, Pa., Sandra Whittington, of Hedgesville, Angela Castle, of Parachute, Colo., George Whittington, of Hedgesville and Christopher Whittington, of Newport News, Va. He is also survived by a number of nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by siblings, Richard Whittington, Diane Liberto, Penelope Whittington, in infancy, Boyd Whittington and Donald E. Whittington.

Funeral services will be held at 1 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 12, 2012, at Brown Funeral Home with the Rev. William Moore officiating. Military graveside services will be held at Hedgesville Cemetery.

Family will receive friends from 7 to 9 p.m. today at the funeral home.

Memorial contributions may be made to American Heart Association, P.O. Box 163549, Columbus, OH 43216-3549

Willemin, Richard John
(June 26, 1925 - April 5, 2011)

CHESTERTOWN, NY - Richard "Dick" John Willemin, 85, died Tuesday, April 5, 2011, after a long illness at Westmount Health Care Facility in Queensbury, NY.

Born in Providence, RI, on June 26, 1925, he was the son of the late Louis Paul and Mary Louise (Roche) Willemin.

Richard served in the U.S. Navy during World War II as an Ensign on the USS Little Rock as a gunnery officer and during the Korean War as a law officer LT on the USS Bottineau and USS Newport- News the flagship of 6th fleet.

He received his bachelors degree in chemical engineering from Yale University and masters degree in business from Wharton School of Business. He retired as vice president actuary from Metropolitan Life with more than 35 years of service. He studied art at the Ridgewood Art Institute of Ridgewood, N.J., and the Art Student League in New York City and became an avid oil painter and well known in the Chestertown area. He wrote a published novel ‚ÄúHold Back the Dawn‚Äù and also wrote poetry. He was also a member of the Rodney Players Amateur Theater Group in Glen Rock, N.J. His memberships included the more than 50 Hockey League in Glens Falls, American Legion Post No. 964 of Chestertown, Knights of Columbus St. Isaac Jogues Council No. 11428 of Lake George and sang in the church choir for 10 years at the Church of Our Lady of The Annunciation, Queensbury and St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Chestertown. He also sang in the Christmas Cantata at the United Methodist Church in Chestertown.

Besides his parents he was predeceased by two brothers, Louis Paul Willemin and his twin brother, Robert David Willemin.

Survivors include his wife of 60 years, Laura (Plant) Willemin of Chestertown whom he married on April 22, 1950; one son, Richard John (Kathleen) Willemin Jr. of Chappaqua, NY; one daughter, Anne (Richard) Atkinson of Queensbury; two sisters, Catherine (John) Hines of Ohio and Harriette Coleman of Calif.; one sister-in-law, Ellen A. Willemin of Philadelphia, PA; four grandsons: Michael and David Willemin of Chappaqua, NY, Brian Gobbo and Michael Atkinson of Queensbury; many nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Sacred Heart Catholic Church Building Fund, 50 Mohican St., Lake George, NY 12845 or Knights of Columbus St. Isaac Jogues Council No. 11428 50 Mohican St. Lake George, NY 12845 or St. Isaac Jogues-St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, P.O. Box 471, Chestertown, NY 12817.

(Posted on the USS Little Rock website 19 Sep 2012)

Wilson, Ronald L.
(Nov. 25, 1945 - May 3, 2011)

Mr. Ronald L. Wilson, 65, Bloomington, IN formerly of Greentown, IN passed away at 6:02 p.m. Tuesday, May 3, 2011, at the IU Health Bloomington Hospital.

Ron was born Nov. 25, 1945, at St. Joseph Hospital, Kokomo, to the late Chester William and Marjorie (Newlan) Wilson. Ron was blessed with the gift of music and spent his life sharing the Gospel in numerous churches and services across the country including revivals, weddings, choir specials, holiday programs, concerts and so much more. He also performed our National Anthem for a variety of public events including the annual Indiana University Basketball Awards Banquet and other professional sporting events. Ron graduated from Indiana University in 1974, shortly after serving in the U.S. Navy on the USS Little Rock during the Vietnam War. After graduating from Indiana University, Ron began his piano technician business and shared his joy of music with all.

Ron is survived by a daughter, Heather M. Wilson, Atlanta, GA; a son, Joshua Tait Wilson, Tampa, FL; a brother, Gary Irwin Wilson, Cicero; and a sister, Dee Ann Clay, Bloomington.

Ron was preceded in death by his parents; and a brother, Gregory Dean Wilson.

(Posted on the USS Little Rock website 19 Sep 2012)

Zeitler, Jacob G.

(September 12, 1948 - February 25, 2013)

Jacob G. "Jack" Zeitler 64, of Saint Petersburg, FL passed away on February 25, 2013.

Jack was born September 12, 1948 originally from Fairview, NJ and came to Florida in 1981.

He is survived by his loving wife, of 34 years, Justine; his children Jacob A. Zeitler, Jillian L. Zeitler, Justin T. Zeitler, and Devin Chham-Zeitler; his three grandchildren Amy, Gianni, and Emma; and his sister Judith Scarola. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, and brother.

He served for 4 years in the Navy on the USS Little Rock (CLG-4) at Norfolk, VA. Upon moving to Florida he owned and operated Custom Wallcoverings. Jack translated his skill at painting and paperhanging to hand masterpieces. His skill at painting brought to life a man who was truly a talented person. He enjoyed watching the Rays, and Buccaneers on TV with his sons, and loved fishing and the outdoors. A special thanks to Pastor Al Williams of Golfview Rehab for his love, special care, and spiritual guidance.

The family will be receiving friends at Brett Funeral Home 4810 Central Avenue St. Petersburg, FL 33711 for his viewing on Friday, March 1, 2013 between 4:00 - 8:00 p.m.

A funeral Mass will be conducted 10:00 a.m., Saturday, March 2, 2013 at Most Holy Name of Jesus Catholic Church located at 5800 15th Ave South Gulfport, FL 33707

(Posted on the USS Little Rock website 11 Mar 2013)

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