Name Crew Years Rate Notes
Arnold, Pat Gold 84-87 ET Pat was a good friend from Louisiana who died
during a refit in Charleston, South Carolina,
March 1987.
Barron, Robert W 65 EN Passed away: 4/15/2006 - Gerber, CA. Survived
by Sue Elane Served in USS Sterlet SS392 1958
USS Bashaw SS241 1959 USS Bluegill SS 2421960
USS Andrew Jackson SSBN619 1962 USS Lafayette
SSBN616 1965.
Bauer, William F Gold 62- ENCS Shipmate William F. Bauer passed away on 7 March
2005. William Qualified in Submarines onboard USS
EX U2513 in 1946. He would also serve onboard USS
COBBLER (SS 344), USS TRIGGER (SS 564), USS
SEAWOLF (SSN 575), and USS LAFAYETTE (SSBN 616)
retiring as an ENCS(SS).
Bell, Edwin D Gold 69-72 STSC Edwin D. “Ed” Bell, 70, (Jul 27, 1938 –Oct 16,
2008) of Winona, MN, passed away unexpectedly on
Thursday, October 16, 2008, at Franciscan Skemp
Healthcare, LaCrosse, Wis. In keeping with his
wishes, his body was cremated and his family will
hold a celebration of his life in Texas at a
later date.
Berger, Lloyd Blue 65-67 ET Lloyd D. "Ham" Berger, Nov 28, 1942-Dec 28, 2005
Prior to retirement, he was a field engineer with
NCR Corporation. He also worked at Artromick
International. He served his country in the
United States Navy as a Navigation ET aboard the
USS Lafayette and also the USS John C. Calhoun
submarines. He was a member of the American
Legion Post 85 in Newark.OH and the Buckeye Lake
AMVets Post 51, in Thornville, OH. He was a
loving husband, father and grandfather. He was
also an avid golfer. Survivors include his
loving wife of 33 years, Margaret "Marge", son,
Eric Thomas Berger, of Newark, OH; daughter,
Tarina Rebecca Berger of Newark. Ham was a good
shipmate and friend, he will be greatly missed.
Bishop, Cecil B Blue 64-70 FTB Cecil B Bishop Jr (March 6, 1943 d. May 1, 1984)
raised in Joanna, SC served in the US Navy on the
USS Lafayette SSBN 616. Cecil was a friend to
all and he proud to be a ship’s diver.
Blackwood, Edward Both 73-75 LT Edward B "Ed" Blackwood, CMDR USN (Ret) 63 of
Annapolis, died of lung cancer July 31, 2008 at
home. Ed was born June 24, 1945, in Detroit. He
graduated from Saginaw High School in 1963, the
Naval Academy in 1967 and earned his master's of
business admin in 1980 from University of MD. A
nuclear engineer, he worked for the Nuclear
Regulatory Commission 1975-85, then for a private
consulting firm for three years. He worked for
the Department of Energy from 1988-present. He
served in active duty with the Navy submarine
service from 1967-75 and in the Reserves until
1994. He was an ordained Presbyterian elder and
a member of the American Society for Quality.
Sailing was his passion. Survivors include his
wife of more than 25 years, Beth Blackwood; son,
Edward Delarosa of Houston; daughter: Beth Ann
Blackwood of Helena, MT; brother, Rear Adm Hugo
Blackwood of Summerville, SC.
Bohnenstiehl,J R Gold 78-80 STS James Ronald Bohnenstiehl was born July 25, 1946
in Illinois and passed away February 3, 2003.
Jim served as an STS on the USS Lafayette Gold
for 4 patrols from 1978 to 1980.
Brown, Richard F Gold 62-63 FTM He lived in Carlsbad CA and is survived by Ruby.
He qualified on USS DIODON SS349 in 1961 as a
FT2. He also served on USS LAFAYETTE SSBN616
in 1962-63 and USS CASIMIR PULASKI SSBN633 in
1963-65
Brown,Robert James Gold 75-79 QMC Robert James Brown was born November 27, 1947 in
Pennsylvania and passed away December 14, 2008 in
New Jersey. Bob served as a QM Chief on the USS
Lafayette for several patrols from 1975 to 1979.
Buell, Ralph S Blue 79-83 RMCS Ralph S Buell (15 Aug 1935 – 04 Oct 2001)
I am sad to say that my old RMCS Ralph Buell
was layed to rest some years ago. He was the RMCS
of the radio gang when we won the fleet "Green C"
for radio communications while I was onboard.
Ralph was a great and wonderful person. Submitted
by: Dick Lamborn RM
Bull, Darrell W Gold 80 SA Darrell Wayne Bull went to be with the Lord on
Thursday, April 16, 2009, at the home of a family
member in Chattanooga. Born on Nov. 26, 1959, in
Athens, Tenn. He was a member of First Baptist
Church of Etowah, TN. He attended school at
McMinn Central High School, Englewood, TN. He
also served in the U.S. Navy on the submarine
U.S. Lafayette. He was a very talented
construction worker for most of his life.
Survivors include one son, Max Bull, of Delano;
and a daughter, Stella Bull, of Florida; father
and stepmother, Jimmy and Judy Bull, of Etowah,
TN, and mother, Juanita Bull, of Helena, MT.
Bullough, Bruce Gold 86-88 XO Bruce L. Bullough Captain USN (Ret) died 4/28/03
at home from 3 year battle with cancer. He is
survived by his wife of 29 years, Cecilia Novotny
Bullough, his sons Ben and Jon and his daughter
Liz. He was buried with full Military Honors at
Arlington National Cemeter on May 19, 2003. He
was a Naval Academy Graduate of the class of 1972
with a degree in Mechanical Engineering. His
distinquished 29 nine year naval career was
dedicated to the submarine service.
Carignan, Walter C Blue 62- TM I verified that TMC Wally Carrigan's was listed in
the Fleet Reserve Magazine as deceased.
submitted by George Henson
Cinna, Mike 64 FT Passed away in 1991 in Hollywood, FL. He left a
wife and 2 kids.
Dekart, Donald F Gold 62- ETN Don Dekart 06/36-07/84) was born in born in
Hastings, MN passed away in Tujunga, CA.
His wife reported that he went on Eternal
Patrol in 1984.
Donahoe, Richard Gold 76-80 ET Rick Donahoe (6/2/54-7/82) of Pittsburgh, PA
Passed away from pneumonia. Rick suffered
From leukemia and received a bone marrow
transplant from his sister. He is remembered
by shipmates as a “die hard Steelers fan” and
as a good shipmate. Sailor rest your oars.
Dooley, Joseph P Gold 62-64 TMC Joseph P Dooley, 79, of Fountain Springs,PA
departed on Eternal Patrol on Wednesday June 12,
2007 at Reading Hospital and Medical Center. He
qualified aboard the USS Sea Leopard SS483 in
1951. Joe was a TMCS(SS) and plank owner on the
USS Lafayette and USS Fransis Scott Key. He is
survived by his wife Ann.
Drain, Timothy T Gold 76-78 QM Timothy passed away 2001, and didn't pass on any
Navy items to his kids. Was wondering if there
are any photos of the Lafayette. Patti Drain,
email: Irish0597#aol.com
Draper, Meril E 78–82 Dec. 23, 1956 - Aug. 28, 2007, Meril E Draper
of Brinnon, WA died of trauma from a motorcycle
crash at Harborview Medical Center. He was 50.
He was born in Tacoma and graduated from Bethel
High School in Spanaway. He was a Navy petty
officer aboard the submarine USS Lafayette,
based in Norfolk, Conn., from 1978-1982. He was
an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed backpacking,
boating, fishing and hunting. He also enjoyed
golf and skydiving. Mr. Draper married Melody
Ann Jarrett in Reno, Nev., on July 4, 1985.
Survivors include his wife; four children and
one grandchild.
Ellis, Niall W Gold 78-80 STS Niall W Ellis was born March 27, 1957 in
Pennsylvania and passed away September 23, 1984.
Niall served as an STS on the USS Lafayette Gold
for 4 patrols from 1978 to 1980.
Eversole, Scott Gold 79-86 ST Scott Eversole (9/17/60-8/15/91) lost a battle
with cancer In Summerville, SC. He made people
laugh; his was a great artist that made several
drawings of our sonar gang and several others
throughout the boat. He was a great friend and a
Sonar Supervisor that taught me many things to be
a great Sonar Supervisor. From STS1(SS) Wayne
Houseright (ret).
Finn, Michael Gold 60's MM "Mickey" Finn was a very popular shipmate and
friend.
Fitzpatrick, Joe Gold 62- LCDR Captain Jim Strong wrote that Joe Fitzpatrick was
the first Gold Crew XO and a good friend.
Freeman, Jim Both 64-71 FTB Uncle Spunky was an FT on the USS Lafayette from
1964 to 1971, later he made Chief, Warrant
Officer and then was commissioned reaching and
reached the rank of Comander. 01/19/1944 to
11/02/2001, Buried: Section 6-W, Row 17, Site 5
at Arlington National Cemetery. Jim was a
very popular shipmate and is missed by all.
Gant, Waylan Blue 72-75 EMCS Turkey and his wife Pat were from Okalahoma City.
He passed away while at Recruiting Duty in
Oklahoma City.
Geary, Robert Blue 66-67 EM Believed to have died in Vietnam
Ghiroli, Dewey E Gold 79-80 MS Dewey E Ghiroli Jr was born January 11, 1960 in
Connecticut and passed away February 16, 1999.
Dewey served as an MS on the USS Lafayette Gold
for 2 patrols from 1979 to 1980.
Grunt, Raymond J Blue 61-67 CSC Raymond J Grunt, of Berea, died Aug 28, 2007
at the Western Reserve Masonic Community, Medina,
OH. Born in Cleveland, he retired after 23 years
with the U.S. Navy where he was in the Submarine
Force during the Korean War and Vietnam. After
retirement, he was a teacher with the Brecksville
Broadview Heights School District. He enjoyed
working with stained glass, playing golf and
singing in the Chancel Choir.
Halquist, Harry D Gold 77-78 LTJG Harry D Halquist was born December 31, 1947 in
Pennsylvania and died on June 29, 1993. He was a
LT on the USS Lafayette Gold crew from 1977 to
1978.
Hall, Jerrald Gold 79-80 ET Jerrald “Jerry” Hall was born September 17, 1959
in Virginia and passed away November 1984 in
Hartford, CT. Jerry served as an ET on the USS
Lafayette Gold for 2 patrols from 1979 to 1980.
Hamick, Sam J Gold 75-77 EM Sam Joseph Hamick, 50, of Russellville, AR,
formerly of Danville (4/2/52-9/19/02), died of
electrocution in an industrial accident in North
Little Rock, AR., around 10 am Thursday (Sept 19,
2002). At the time of his death, Sam was employed
at Hall Tank Company. He was a Navy veteran, a
nuclear power technician in Russellville, AR, and
later traveled the U.S. working on nuclear
plants' safety compliance. Sam was an active
member of the Dardanelle First Free Will Baptist
Church and a Gideon. He is survived by his
wife, Christine of Russellville, his daughter,
Laura (Scott) Bass of Conway, AR, and his son,
Paul of Russellville.
Henry, Kirby D Blue 62-65 SK Kirby D Henry of Morristown, TN (June 11, 1934 to
March 1984) Kirby’s wife Helga reported that he
passed away 25 years ago. He was USS Lafayette
plank owner and served as a Storekeeper for
several patrols on the Blue Crew from 1962 to
1965.
Hill, Ronald E Gold 77-78 HMC Ronald Ervin Hill was born March 18 1945 in
Colorado and passed away July 25, 2002. Ron
served as an HM Chief on the USS Lafayette Gold
for 2 patrols from 1977 to 1978.
Hilt, Roy A Blue 63-67 ETC Roy August Hilt, 80, of Uncasville, passed away
Friday, April 20, 2007, at Yale-New Haven
Hospital following a brief illness. Mr. Hilt was
born March 6, 1927, in Fort Bragg, Calif., to
August Julius Hilt and Elvi Adeline (Gustafson)
Hilt. A master chief electronics technician in
the U.S. Navy, Mr. Hilt enlisted in 1945 and
retired after 20 years of service. He was chief
of the boat aboard the USS Lafayette SSBN-616 and
also served aboard the USS Seawolf SSN-575 and
USS Sea Robin SS-407.
Holtry, Larry E Gold 78- ET Larry Eugene Holtry of Sandbridge, Virginia Beach,
VA, age 44, went to be with both his heavenly and
earthly fathers on April 20, 1995. He was born
June 19, 1950 in Pennsylvania. Larry served for
23 years in the US Navy Submarine Service. He
served on the USS Lafayette as an ET for 3
patrols in 1978.
Hope, Anthony J Gold 77-78 ETC Anthony Joseph Hope was born October 12, 1944 in
New York and died August 31, 1998 in Galveston,
TX. Tony served as an ET Chief on the USS
Lafayette for 2 patrols from 1977 to 1978.
Hughes, Peter F H Blue 62- LCDR Peter Finley H. Hughes (officer, commissioning
Blue Crew) is also on eternal patrol. Adm.
Hannifin would be able to give you more
information, I believe. John Peters
Hughey, Raymond L Blue 62-64 ET Ray Hughey (03/01/26–05/14/02) of Portland, OR
is remembered by Ray Bromberek who served with
him on both the Lafayette and the Will Rogers.
Ray was a good friend and shipmate.
Hyatt, William H Jr 66 EN CPO William H Hyatt, Jr, US Navy Ret, 72, of Goose
Creek, SC, died Sunday, May 31, 2009, in a local
hospital. Born April 13, 1937 in McColl, SC he
was the son of William Howard Hyatt and Louise
Bullard Hyatt. Following his naval career, he was
employed by Gore Manufacturing and retired from
the Navy Exchange in 1992. Mr. Hyatt was a Life
Member of the United States Submarine Veterans
Association and The National Association of
Destroyer Veterans. He is survived by his wife,
Dorothy E Hyatt of 17 years, of Goose Creek, SC.
Jerdeman, David S Gold 62- FTG David Stearns Jerdeman, enlisted member of the
commissioning crew, is deceased. He passed away
in 2004 in Florida. Thank you, Mary T. Jerdeman
Johnson, Paul Blue 65-68 Officer in the 60s that went thru the yards at
Newport News. He passed away in 2003. His
wife said he search the web for a Lafayette
site looking for a Reunion.
Jones, Ernest M Blue 62- ETC I have it from multiple sources that ETC Ernie
Jones passed away several years ago.
submitted by George Henson
Jordan, Randall B Gold 78- STS Randall B Jordan was born October 2, 1958 in Texas
and died September 28, 2003 in McLennan, TX.
Randall served as an STS on the USS Lafayette for
one patrols in 1978.
Josephson,Henning Gold 62- LCDR Swede Josephson was the first Gold Crew Navigator
Jumper, Harold Blue 66-70 STS Harold Jumper (19 Oct 1937 - Feb 1978) was a
popular shipmate on the USS Lafayette from 1966-
1970, then on the USS Trigger SS564 1970-1972.
Kappes, James D Gold 70-72 TM James D Kappes of Catasauqua, PA (August 8, 1947
to March 31, 2001) My husband Jim (James D.
Kappes) served aboard the USS Lafayette from
11/70 to 10/72. Unfortunately Jim passed away 7
yrs. ago while awaiting a heart transplant. Our
daughters and I would appreciate any
correspondence from anyone who remembers Jim. He
was a Torpedoman's Mate 2nd class in the Missile
Launch Division and I believe his nickname was
"Hippie". Thanks so much. Lynn Kappes
(kappestrano@rcn.com)
Kennish. James R Blue 62-64 MT James Reginald Kennish, USNR, of Essex, CT and San
Miguel de Allende, Mexico, passed away September
18, 2007 in Essex. Jim was born June 3, 1940 in
Utica, NY. He earned a music scholarship to
Princeton University but chose instead to serve
his country in the U.S. Navy. Jim was selected
for the Navy Enlisted Scientific Education
Program, earning a degree in Physics Engineering,
at the University of Kansas and was commissioned
in 1968. He returned to serve in the Submarine
Service for 22 years and retired as Lt Commander.
Kirsch, Larry Blue 70’s RM Larry Kirsch passed away in 1993.
He was an RM2(SS) Blue crew member in the
mid-late 70’s. A good friend and shipmate.
Sent in by: Ray Sadlik (Blue 76-79 RM)
Kittelson,William Gold 7780 TM William H. Kittelson, 64, of Midway PA formerly of
Plaistow NH, died Wednesday, February 27, 2008,
in his home. He was born August 3, 1943, in
Union City, IA. Mr. Kittelson was a retired U.S.
Navy veteran. Bill served on the USS Lafayette
as a TM for 3 patrols from 1977 to 1980.
Surviving are his wife of 31 years, Jean Loneske
Kittelson; six children, Carrie, Jean and Michael
Daske, Beth Kittelson, Theresa Lago and Larry
Kittelson, and six grandchildren.
Kopp, Don Gold 62 MMC About 2 years ago, Don MMC(SS) went on to his
great reward, he was the Chief Auxman on the
Gold Commissioning crew. His wife still lives
in Charleston.
Kotzke, Robert L Gold 62-67 TMC Bob passed away on Jan 4, 2006 after fighting with
cancer. Bob retired as Senior Chief Torpedo man
and later did volunteer work for the Naval
Hospital there in Charleston, SC, and later in a
local hospital in Summerville, SC.
Kuester, Arland W Gold 80-80 Capt Kuester, Arland W Captain US Navy (06/09/1937 to
11/01/2002). Captain Kuester was interred on
the 3rd of December, 2002 in: Arlington National
Cemetery, Section 67, Site 4498. Capt Kuester
was Captain of the USS Lafayette SSBN 616 Gold
Crew from 08/80 to 11/80 and served on several
other submarines including the USS John C Calhoun
SSBN630. He was survived by his wife Barbara
Kuester.
Lamberth, Kevin D Blue 81-85 FTB Kevin Dennis Lamberth, age 52 (11/2/1955 –
3/9/2008), died Sunday March 9, 2008 in an
Oklahoma City hospital after a sudden illness.
He was born November 2, 1955 in Houston, TX.
He was a US Navy veteran and had served on the
submarine USS Lafayette. Kevin was a longtime
employee of FAA where he was an instructor in
computer technology and system analysis.
Services will be held with full military honors
and interment following at Ft. Sill National
Cemetery, Elgin, OK.
Lane, Hershel B Blue 62-66 EN Hershel Byron “Rocky” Lane (Jul 12, 1939 to
Feb 18, 2003) of Jacksonville, FL, survived
by his wife Josephine. Rocky was a member of
the USS Lafayette Commissioning Crew.
Leppla, Charles Gold 61- MTC Elizabeth (Liz) Leppla said that Chuck Leppla died
Aug 1999. He was on the Commission Crew (Gold
Crew) as a MT1 (SS). He made chief while
attached. He retired after 20 years from the
Navy. He had been living in Jensen Beach, FL.
Lewis,Edward F Jr Gold 62-69 ET Ed Lewis Born 22 Oct 1937 and died 06 Jan 2006 in
Kenner, LA. Ed lived in Picayune, MS and was a
member of the USSVI Redfish base in Slidell, LA.
He was a plank owner and NavET on the USS
Lafayette SSBN616 Gold crew from 1962 to 1969.
Lofgren, Roy Blue 65-67 Ray passed away in approximately 2002, he lived
in Casper, WY. Reported by Lamon Craven
Long, George T Gold 62- LT George first Gold Weapons Officer. He passed away
nearly 10 years ago. Survived by wife Cindy and
kids. He made 2 or 3 Gold Crew patrols. He
retired as an Intel Specialist at the 20 years
point so he would have made LCDR.
Lookhoff, Jeff 74-77 QMC Passed away: 6/18/2002 - Shipmate Jeffrey Lookhoff
of 19415 Highway 40, Covington, La received his
final orders from the Supreme Commander 18 June
2002. He is survived by his wife Zaida. He
qualified in USS Rasher SS-394 and served in USS
Pomfret SS-391, Razorback SS-394, Sam Houston
SSBN-609 and Lafayette SSBN-616.
Lull, Gene R Gold 62- RMC Gene R Lull was born 28 Mar 1935 in Superior, WI
and passed away 10 Mar 1997. Gene was an RMC and
Gold crew plank owner. The Association was
notified by a family member that found our
website.
MacKinnon,Brett C Gold 80 FA Brett C MacKinnon was born May 30, 1961 in
Massachusetts and died July 28, 1993. Brett
served as an FA on the USS Lafayette for one
patrols in 1980.
Mahan, Robert R Blue 74-75 FTCS Robert Reed Mahan was b orn in Florida on August
Gold 78-78 11, 1940 and died in December 1980. FTCS Mahan
served on the USS Lafayette as the Chief of the
Boat Blue crew for 74-75 and Gold crew for 78-
78.
Matlock, Rodney A Gold 77-78 SK Rodney Allen Matlock was born March 30, 1955 in
Idaho and died November 4, 2001. Rodney served
as an SK on the USS Lafayette for 4 patrols from
1977 to 1978.
McGarry, Gordon 66 LCDR Gordon McGarry died in Oct 1985 in Washington, DC
reported by Jerry Mulholland
McLaughlin,Bernard Gold 62-64 CAPT Captain Bernard Robert McLaughlin, USN(Ret) passed
away Aug 27, 2009. He was born in Nashua, NH
Sept 14, 1929 to the late Bernard Philip and
Jennie McAdoo McLaughlin. Captain McLaughlin was
a graduate of the US Naval Academy, class of 53.
He attended the US Naval War College graduating
with high distinction. His early career consisted
of operational assignments in the submarine force
culminating in command of the USS ARGONAUT. Mid
career assignments included duty on the Staff,
Commander in Chief Pacific; Executive Officer,
Recruit Training Command, San Diego, CA; Chief of
Staff, Submarine Squadron Three; and Joint Chiefs
of Staff, Washington, DC. His last assignment was
Command of the Naval Sea Support Center, Pacific.
He was awarded the Joint Service Commendation
Medal, Navy Commendation Medal, Navy Achievement
Medal, Navy Expeditionary Medal, Navy Occupation
Service Medal, National Defense Service Medal and
two Meritorious Service Medals. He is survived by
his wife of 49 years, Elizabeth Gara McLaughlin.
Barney was a life long Red Sox fan, avid reader
and walking enthusiast.
McQuown, Michael Both 72-75 LCDR Mike was the Navigator on the Gold crew when we
left the shipyard and a helluva Submariner. He
went on to become the Officer in Charge (OIC) of
NR-1 where he received commendations for his
efforts in the cold war. Unfortunately he died in
an automobile accident the day before he was to
take command of a fast attack in San Diego.
McVeigh, John F Blue 62-65 EMC John F. McVeigh died Sunday, April 3, 2005. He was
born March 4, 1937, to James J. and Viola McVeigh
in Paterson, New Jersey.
Mortimer, Phillip Gold 62-65 EN My father, Philip P. Mortimer is now on eternal
patrol. He retired from the Navy in 1973. He died
of lung cancer Aug. 12, 1986. Any memories of my
dad would be appreciated. Thank you. From: Mary
Mortimer mmort1234@aol.com
Muller, David Lynn LCDR David Lynn Muller, of San Diego, CA Jan 8, 1932 –
Jul 21, 2002
Mullins, David Gold 64-66 LT LCDR David Lynn Mullins, 68, of Kansas City, KS
(3/21/40-6/12/08) died at Overland Park Regional
Medical Center on Thursday, June 12, 2008. He
graduated from the United States Naval Academy
in 1962. He served on the USS Jack SSN 605, the
USS Lafayette SSBN616, the Von Steuben SSBN 632,
and the USS Puffer SSN652, as well as on
Submarine Staffs in Holy Lock, Scotland, Pearl
Harbor, and San Diego. After his retirement from
the Navy, David earned a M.A. in Counseling
Psychology and became a certified Bioenergetic
Therapist and Gestalt Therapist. It was in
counseling that David found his strength.
Mumford, Ronald Blue 70’s MMCS Unconfirmed report that MMCS(SS) “The COB of the
Blue Crew Mob” (mid-late 70’s) had a heart attack
and passed away while on patrol. Boat and date
unknown. Please add additional information and or
confirmation if you have it. He will be missed.
Sent in by: Ray Sadlik (Blue 76-79 RM)
Nevedal, William Blue 65-67 TM3 Bill passed away on 1/9/02 from acute myelitic
luekemia. He was always very proud of his service
on the Lafayette. His youngest son is currently
stationed on the USS Bremerton SSN-698 fast
attack submarine which in Pearl Harbor. Bill
worked for approx. 30 as a sales manager in the
Heat Treat Industry. As a family, we were
involved in Revolutionary War reinactment, mostly
through the 1st Michigan Colonial Fife & Drum
Corp. Bill was a wonderful man and is greatly
missed.
Norris, Clyde C Blue 74-77 MT Clyde C Norris Jr (Aug 14, 1950 to Dec 23, 1998)
was on the Blue crew from late 70 through the
yards and onward. But Clyde and Lee his wife
visited us years later and we got caught up.
Clyde was origionaly from New Mexico and lived in
Utah when he passed away. He was one of the many
who used Phen-fen to lose weight. He lost over 70
pounds. But about 6 months later she came home to
find him dead on the floor. He was Grubsteak the
clown as a side job. He was an avid Shriner and
enjoyed entertaining kids. Pat Beaman, shipmate
Pearo, Todd Blue 80s MM3 Todd was a MM3 nuke ,M-div and he reported aboard
the USS Lafayette early 1986.
Perkins,G Lindsay Jr 82-85 Capt G. Lindsay Perkins Jr. of Bremerton, Wash., died
Mach 20, 2007. As a captain in the U.S. Navy, he
commanded the Fleet and Industrial Supply Center
at Puget Sound. Capt. Perkins also directed the
regional Combined Federal Campaign in 2005,
raising $2.1 million. His military decorations
included the Legion of Merit, Meritorious
Service Medal, Navy Commendation Medal, Navy
Achievement Medal, Volunteer Service Medal and
various unit awards.
Perry, John F Both 66-70 ET John F Perry, 66, of Kennewick, died March 27,
2009 at Sacred Heart Medical Center in Spokane.
He was born in Modesto, Calif., and lived in
Kennewick for 33 years. He was a retired training
engineer/instructor for Con Edison and Energy
Northwest. He served our country and was a nuke
ET on the USS Lafayette SSBN 616. He loved,
played and helped organize many folk music groups
and events. He passed away as a result of
complications following surgery.
Perry, Maynard W Blue 62- QMC His wife said that "Mark" died in July 2004 as a
result of cancer. He was a wonderful friend,
great shipmate USN(Ret), and would have loved
seeing all the plankowners.
Pollard, Ronald E Gold 62-65 YN Pollard, Ronald E. - 64, (May 24, 1943-Dec 22,
2007) of Port Charlotte, Fla., passed away
Saturday, December 22. 2007, at his home. Ron had
lived in Miami, Tampa and southwest.
Poole, Marshall H Both 65-71 EMCM Please inform Marshall's shipmates that he passed
away from complications of PSP [Progressive
Supranuclear Palsy] on Sept.21,2006 in Alma, GA.
He donated his brain to Mayo Clinic for research
to find the cause and hopefully a cure someday
for this horrible disease. Thank you.Regards,
his wife, Barbara J.Poole mxbp60#accessatc.net
Potter, Ray Blue 61- ET My father, Ray Potter passed away in April 2006
in Cedar Rapids, IA. I am a sub vet as well,
patrolled on the USS Henry Clay and USS Daniel.
Mike Potter firemanpotter#yahoo.com
Qualls, Cletus Blue 62-66 TMC Qualls, Cletus Earl (1931-2007), 76, of Navarre,
FL and a native of Slaughters, KY on Friday
October 19, 2007. at 1:13 in the afternoon,
departed on Eternal Patrol to join his shipmate
and brother Paul. He was honorably retired from
the U S Navy with 20 years of submarine service.
While in the navy he was aboard the USS Skate
(SSN-578) and had the honor of being part of the
crew that was first to surface at the North Pole
in 1959. The crew also circumnavigated around the
world (at the pole) in less than an hour. He was
a plank owner of three submarines, USS Skate,
(SSN-578), USS Lafayette, (SSBN-616), and USS
Will Rogers (SSBN-659). He also served aboard USS
Bonita (SSK-3), and USS Clamagore (SS-343). He
fought so hard. Mesothelioma was too much. Now
he can rest his oars and be at peace with God.
Thank you so much. With gratitude, His Daughter,
Darlene Soja
Qualls, Paul N Blue 64-66 CS2 Paul was married to Phyllis and has two daughters,
Dawn and Jennie, and two granddaughters. Eternal
Patrol May 10, 2000 reported by his brother
Cletus Qualls TMC Blue 62-66.
Reed, Jack 67-69 LT John R Reed (22 Jun 1941 - 13 Jun 2007) died 13
June 2007 in Newport News VA reported by Jerry
Mulholland.
Savage, Bob Blue 78-83 LCDR This is a tribute as I just found out that he
passed away in the late 80's from cancer. He
will be sorely missed.
Schlagel, Leslie Gold 84-90 EM1 Notes: Les lived in NY from 91-01 had 2 kids
Boy Kyle and girl Sara and will be missed he
passed on 10/13/01 due to cancer.
Email (family): LLSCH1200#aol.com
Schmitt, Joseph Gold 82-84 MM Joseph L. Schmitt (03/15/61-06/24/07), 46, passed
away Sunday June 24, 2007. He enjoyed a career as
a machinists mate before retiring from the Navy.
Joe was a police officer, serving with the
Newport News-Williamsburg International Airport.
An antique car enthusiast, Joe loved his show
trucks and was an award winning member of the
Chevy Lovers Car Club. He was preceded in death
by his father Joseph A. Schmitt, and leaves to
cherish his memory his, wife of 25 years Connie
Lee Schmitt, daughter Heather Nicole Schmitt,
mother Jean T. Schmitt.
Shipman, George R Gold 78-80 TM George R Shipman Jr was born May 28, 1959 in Iowa
and died July 15, 1988. George served as a TM on
the USS Lafayette for 4 patrols from 1978 to
1980.
Sightler, Aubry L Blue 68-71 ST Skeebo passed on in 2001 in Greenville, SC. He was
a beloved member of the Rural Fire Dept and a
"cut-up" till the end. He was "Battle Station"
planesman and had a special op when he had to
keep +/- one ft depth for about 8 hours. He
did it with "Doc" Thornton's help on the BCP.
Sitter, Allan E Blue 61-63 QMC Allan Sitter born in Oct 4, 1922 and he passed
away on Apr 20, 2002 in New London, CT. A
veteran of WWII, the Korean War and Vietnam
conflict, Mr. Sitter served over 20 years in the
U.S. Navy and retired as a chief Quarter Master.
He was the Chief of the Boat for the Blue
Commissioning Crew as a QMC of the USS Lafayette
SSBN616 and also served on the USS George
Washington SSBN598. Following his military
career, Mr. Sitter retired with 20 years of
service from Electric Boat. On February 27,
2003, in the ashes of Allan E Sitter, QMC(SS)
USN (Ret) were returned to the sea off the coast
of St. Barthelemy, French West Indies. He now
rests at latitude 17°-55.55 north and longitude
75°-50.9 west. May he rest in peace.
Sizemore, Don Gold 74-77 MT Don was a Texan thru and thru, and was LPO of Gold
Crew MT gang from 74 to 77. He was an avid
aviation buff, and had built his own small
airplane that he kept and worked on at the New
London airport. I went there often with him to
help him work on this small plane (it had a 15
foot wing span), and watch him fly it. He
returned to Texas after he left the Navy, and was
teaching his wife to fly when their plane
experienced a mechanical failure and crashed,
both were killed. Danny Thomas, Gold MT 74-79
Slough, John Gold 64-66 LCDR Slough, John B of Richmond, Chesterfield, VA (Feb
11, 1937 Oct 07, 2001)
Specht, Harry F Blue 73-75 LT Harry passed away on January 20, 1986 due to a
pulmonary embolism after surgery for lung cancer.
He is sorely missed by all of us. Beverly Specht
bevspec#midsouth.rr.com
Till, Ernest A Blue 62-66 CAPT Capt Ernest A Till, USN Ret died October 15, 2008. He was born March 15, 1926 to the late Ernest and
Elizabeth Till in New York. He is survived by his
wife of 53 years, Mary Louise Aruffo Till, his
daughter Johna Till Johnson and brother Walter
Till and their families.At age 16 he graduated
from Northeast High School in Philadelphia,
enlisted in the Navy, completed Reserve Officer
Training at the University of Pennsylvania. He
was commissioned in 1952. After destroyer duty,
served fifteen years on Polaris nuclear
submarines during the Cold War, concluding with
command of the USS Woodrow Wilson, SSBN-624.
Subsequently he directed the Division of
Mathematics and Science at the US Naval Academy.
He studied Norwegian at the Foreign Service
Institute before attending the Norwegian Defense
College in Oslo, Norway. His last major command
was Naval and Defense Attache, US Embassy, Rome,
Italy. Fluent in Italian and Norwegian, CAPT.
Till was awarded the American Defense Service
Medal, World War II Victory Medal, Navy Unit
Commendation, Joint Service Commendation Medal,
and Meritorious Service Medal and was knighted by
the President of Italy. Before retiring to
Corpus Christi, TX in 2005, he worked in the
nuclear power industry in Illinois and
Pennsylvania.
Walls, Willie E Blue 66 IC Willie E Walls (3/14/40-1/2/94) passed away in
1994 in Detroit.
Welan, Michael A Both 64-72 IC Michael Anthony Welan, (Chief, US Navy Retired)
69 of Moncks Corner, S.C., died Thur morning,
March 19, 2009 of sudden cardiac arrest. Mr.
Welan was preceded in death by his Wife; Carmen
Welan. Mr. Welan was born in Lemont, Ill. Nov
18th, 1939. Chief Welan served his country for
over 26 years with dedication and discretion as
a member of the US Navy’s Silent Service. He was
a father of nine children. He enjoyed Traveling,
Computers, Television, Good food, puzzles and
spending time with his family. I have made a
for any that want to leave a message. His actual
funeral will be held March 12th, 2010 in
Charleston, SC. (he wanted to be creamated and
burried with my mother) - Jason Welan
Wise, Bill Gold 71-73 YNC Bill served as Leading Yeoman on Lafayette Gold
from 1971 to around 1973 when she went into the
yards. Bill was a great guy and will be greatly
missed. He passed away from cancer at his home
in North Carolina in 2003 or 2004.
Yow, Lawson S Gold 66-69 TM Mark Schoenbein wrote “We were buddies, and I
looked him up about ten years ago. His father
told me that he had died in an accident in
Atlanta.”
Zapatos, Severino Blue 62-64 SD 01/08/1924 - 11/26/2004, His name is Severino
Zapatos but most people call him Pat. He was born
on January 8, 1924 in the Philippine Islands. He
doesn't look like a hero but those of my
generation think he is. Pat earned his first
paycheck from the Army, at age 17, when in 1940,
he helped build an airstrip for B-17s. Pat earned
one peso a day for his labor. When the war broke
out on December 7, 1941 Pat became a guerilla
attached to the United States Army Forces in the
Far East. He manned a transmitter that reached to
Australia. Pat actually reported to G-2, military
intelligence and was captured by Japanese forces
in May of 1944. He joined the United States Navy
on July third 1946, the last Philippine National
to be inducted into the Navy because they had
closed the base. At that time the only job for
Filipino's was to be Commissary Stewards (SD’s).
Zapatos said, "I was lucky, though, because I
went to submarine school”. On submarines each
crewmember had to know all of the jobs on the
boat.
Zechlin, Frank F Blue 62- LT VADM Patrick Hanifin reported that Frank had
passed away several years ago.
