658 Memorial Wall

"There is a port of no return,
Where ships may ride at anchor for a little space.
And then some starless night the cable slips,
Leaving only an eddy at the mooring place.
Gulls, veer no longer, Sailor rest your oar.
No tangled wreckage will be washed ashore."

It is most sad to report that Hospital Corpsman striker/SS, Harold Dwayne Hibbs passed away on May 10, 1998. He served on the blue crew under CMDR. England as C.O. and under HM1/SS Richard L. English as Dept. head. HN/SS Hibbs is buried in Temple, Texas. Rest in peace buddy. You were a good man. SN/SS Robert Walters.

“I’ve just had such a good life, I’m in no hurry to leave it.” That’s how Doug Gifford, 59, saw things shortly before his fight with cancer ended on September 22, 2011.

Born on September 13, 1952 in Clarksburg, West Virginia the only son of Gene and Marge Gifford, Doug was both silly and smart, long and lean and full of mischief. He grew up in a house full of love, laughs, chores, big dogs and two sisters, Gail and Carol.

From coal-filled hills to big city life in Milwaukee, Wisconsin and Nashville, Tennessee, Doug considered Oregon his home. He graduated from Lake Oswego high school in 1970 and attended Oregon State University before joining the US Navy as a nuclear submariner during the Viet Nam War. He served on the USS Vallejo as an Electrician’s Mate, receiving meritorious awards and service medals. Doug received a commendation for saving the life of a shipmate. He’d simply do anything for anybody.

He made his career in electrical engineering and spent free time hunting, fishing, building and riding motorcycles and spending time with family and friends.

He married Kristeen Teague in 2000. Together, they built a full life of adventure, traveling, diving, camping and learning to fly. They enjoyed a busy life in Banks, with her children Edan and Kyrissa. The family raised goats, chickens, cats and even more dogs.

Diagnosed with Prostate Cancer at age 48, Doug was cancer-free after surgery for several years. He and Kris moved to the Florida Keys in 2007 where they enjoyed a laid back life living on a sailboat, fishing for dinner and entertaining. Doug was a great storyteller.

With PSA numbers rising, (if you don’t know what a PSA number is, the family urges you to find out) Doug took treatment in stride and made the most out of life.

The couple returned to Oregon last spring. Doug faced advancing cancers with heart and courage. He fought hard, accepted limitations positively and showed his love easily. He’d be with us now if he could live on spirit and will alone.

In lieu of flowers the family would like you to contact your local cancer society about providing a PSA test, mammogram or other pre-screening method to someone who cannot afford it in your community, or donate to Serenity Hospice of Oregon.

The family thanks all that supported them through the past four years of treatment, sharing hope, worry and now, sadness. Doug’s life was large. Too short for his size, too quick for those left behind.

Wife, Kristeen, Hillsboro, OR
Sister Gail, Tualatin, OR
Sister Carol & Chris Coplen, Tigard, OR
Sister-in-law Suzzanne and Kevin Marvel, Hillsboro, OR
Brother-in-law Michael Sokoloff
Stepson Edan Koch, Hillsboro, OR
Stepdaughter Kyrissa Koch and Tyson Gieszler, Hillsboro, OR
Nephew Kevin Moench, Seattle, WA
Nephew Dan and Megan Moench, Salt Lake City, UT
Nephew Jameson Marvel, Hillsboro, OR
Nephew Charles & DeeAnn Smith, Molalla, OR
Niece Samantha & Tony Thayer-Osborne, Hillsboro, OR
Niece Kayla Coplen, Bend, OR
Niece Mackenzie Coplen, Eugene, OR

Lyle D. Conklin, 63, of Ogden, Iowa, passed away on Monday, June 27, 2011, at Mercy Medical Center in Des Moines.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held 10:30 a.m., Friday, July 1, 2011, at St. John’s Catholic Church in Ogden. Father Jim Bruch will officiate. Burial will be at St. John’s Catholic Cemetery in Ogden with Military Graveside Rites conducted by the Boone Veteran’s Council. Visitation will be Thursday, from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m., with a scripture service at 7:00 p.m., at St. John’s Catholic Church. Carson – Stapp Funeral Home in Ogden is in charge of the arrangements.

Lyle Dewey Conklin was born on February 9, 1948, in Boone, Iowa, the son of Charles and Velda (VanMeter) Conklin. He was a graduate of the Ogden High School.
Lyle served his country in the United States Navy during Vietnam and following his honorable discharge attended trade school in Omaha, Nebraska. On May 26, 1973, Lyle was united in marriage to Linda Lee Launderville at St. John’s Catholic Church in Ogden. To this union four children were born: Tony, Brandi, Miya, and Ronnie. Lyle was a lifelong resident of Ogden where he worked for Ogden Municipal Utilities for several years. He later became employed by Peoples Natural Gas, then Black Hills Energy where he retired in November of 2009, as a safety representative.

Lyle was a member of St. John’s Catholic Church in Ogden and the Knights of Columbus. He was actively involved in the City of Ogden where he had served on the Rural Main Street and Lincoln Highway Committees, and also served on the Ogden City Council. He was also a member of the submarine group Placoderm.

Survivors include his wife, Linda Conklin of Ogden, Iowa; four children, Tony (Kim) Conklin of Urbandale, Iowa, Brandi (Jason) Prindle of Johnston, Iowa, Miya (Sean) Clubine of Boone, Iowa, and Ronnie Conklin of Ogden, Iowa; five grandchildren, Caitlin Conklin, Donovan Dewey Prindle, Autumnlee Prindle, Alexandria Clubine, and Hailey Clubine; a sister, Beverly (Bernard) Williams of Perry, Iowa; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; two sisters, Doris Houghman-Stevens and Delores Johnson; and two brothers, Ronald Conklin and Richard Conklin.

NEW OXFORD John D. "JD" Baadte, 68, died Sunday, March 20, 2011, at his residence. He was the husband of Carolyn J. (Yohe) Baadte, his wife of 47 years. He was born February 20, 1943, in Washington, D.C. JD retired in 1981 after 20 years of service with the U.S. Navy as a chief torpedo man in the submarine service. He was a life member of the New Oxford Social & Athletic Club, and the East Berlin V.F.W., and a member of the Eagles in Gettysburg, and the American Legion in Orbisonia. He was an avid drag racing fan and golfer. In addition to his wife Carolyn, JD is survived by a son, John D. Shorb, Sr. and his companion Susan McMaster of Hanover; two daughters, Michele L. Nell and her husband Lloyd of Thomasville and Rene A. Baadte of New Oxford; and four grandchildren, Dustin J. Shorb and his wife Myla of Citrus Springs, Fla., John D. Shorb, Jr. of McSherrystown, Dylan J. Baadte of New Oxford, and Sarah E. Shorb of Waynesboro. Following cremation, a memorial service will be held on Friday, March 25, 2011, at 7 p.m. at the Feiser Funeral Home, Inc., 302 Lincolnway West, New Oxford. The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Friday from 5 p.m. until the time of service. Burial will be private and at the convenience of the family. Memorial contributions may be made to Aseracare Hospice, 44 Bowman Road, York, PA 17408, or to the Disabled American Veterans, P.O. Box 14301, Cincinnati, OH 45250. Memories may be shared at www.feiserfuneralhome.com

Born 10-16-44 and passed on to join the eternal patrol on 12-09-10 at 05:15 (Arizona) MST.

HIDDEN VALLEY - David Fletcher, 66, of Hidden Valley died on Dec. 9, 2010, of complications from lung disease.
A memoral service will be held later. Memorial contributions may be made to American Heart Association. Thank you, Jonathan Bell (Stepson)

John "Johnny" William Bucklew went home to be with the Lord on Thursday, September 9, 2010. John was born September 29, 1960, in Denton, Texas to J.W. Bucklew and Mary Kathryn Bucklew. Raised in Sanger, Texas he and his family were prominent members of the community. John was married to Deborah Sue Kesseler Bucklew on February 22, 1986, in Sanger Texas.

His profession has ranged from being a Torpedoman's Mate, second class, to being a Plano firefighter and paramedic, to being the General Contractor and Director of Facilities at New Life Church in Sanger, Texas.

John's life was one of continued service to others. His greatest joy was to minister to others in any way that he could. His life was exemplified by 1 Peter 4:10: "As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God's varied grace."

John served as a Sanger volunteer firefighter. He was a religious lay speaker and served with Kairos Prison Ministries, Epiphany Ministries, Walk to Emmaus, New Life Church, and was a volunteer Chaplin for Kairos Prison Ministries.

He is survived by his wife Deborah; his daughters Amber Marie Bucklew, Jinny Kathryn Bucklew, and Bethany May Bucklew; his mother Mary Kathryn Bucklew; his brother Jerry Bucklew, his beloved dog Wicket and numerous friends and family members. He is preceded by his father, J.W. Bucklew; his aunt Reba Bucklew, and his uncles Clyde and Lloyd Bucklew.

Carlton Leroy Ayres, age 72 of Terrell, TX, and formerly of Rowlett and Garland, passed away September 1, 2010. He was born July 13, 1938 in Camden, NJ, to Carlton Lore & Doris (Beiber) Ayres. Carlton proudly served his country in the United States Navy during Vietnam. He had worked as a computer specialist and was of the Presbyterian denomination.

Carl is survived by his sons: Karl Ayres & wife Diesha of Clearlake, CA, Issac Ayres & wife Jamie of Fate, TX, Robert Ayres & wife Valerie of Royse City, TX, and Ronald Ayres of Lewisville, TX; brother: Wayne Ayres & Patti of Cherry Hill, NJ; granddaughters: Lyla and Leah Ayres; and step-great granddaughter: Amira Tillson. He was preceded in death by his parents; and wife Barbara Ann on June 26, 2010.

A memorial service will be held 2:00pm, Friday, September 10, 2010 at Rest Haven Funeral Home – Rockwall Chapel.

Shipmate Jimmy Hitt and his commendation from Big Al Konetzni. We lost Jimmy to a scuba diving accident in 1999.

Decatur Diver Killed in Swimming Accident
A scuba diver from Decatur died Sunday after breaking his neck at a rock quarry near Madison. According to family members, Jimmy Dwain Hitt, 36, jumped in the water to test the temperature and somehow hit his head on a submerged platform. He was not wearing underwater diving equipment when he jumped in. The impact broke his neck, and he never regained consciousness, relatives said. He died at Huntsville Hospital. "It's just one of those freak accidents that we'll always wonder about," said his sister, Diann Hammon of Priceville. Hitt was a U.S. Navy veteran and served aboard the submarine, USS Vallejo. He had always wanted to be a scuba diver, said his wife, Jennifer Hitt, and he became certified during the summer. Hitt was the former owner of Hitt Furniture Co. in Decatur and owned and managed a computer business in Nashville. Roselawn Funeral Home is handling local arrangements.

Funeral for Jimmy Dwain Hitt, 36, of Decatur was Wednesday September 29, at 2:00 p.m. at Roselawn Funeral Home with the Rev. Buddy Champion officiating. Burial was in Roselawn Cemetary. Mr. Hitt died Sunday, September 26, 1999, at Huntsville Hospital from injuries he sustained in a diving accident. He was a native of Morgan County and a veteran of the U.S. Navy who served aboard the submarine USS Vallejo. He also was the owner of A+ Computers in Nashville and the former owner of Hitt Furniture in Decatur. He is survived by his wife, Jennifer hitt of Sarasota, Fla.; two sons, William Justin Hitt and Jacob E. Hitt, both of Sarasota; his mother and stepfather, Ann and Stephen Reed of Lewisburg, Tenn.; four brothers, Harvey Lee Hitt of Hartselle, Jeffrey Ken Hitt of Nashville, Jackie Lee Hitt of Priceville and Anthony Scott Hitt of Murphreesboro, Tenn.; two sisters, Diann Hammon of Priceville and Melinda K. Hitt of Nashville; one stepbrother, Jeffrey Stephen Reed of Philadelphia; and two stepsisters, Vickie Marlena Reed of Red Lyon, Pa., and Lorie Seamons of Decatur. Pallbearers were Larry Allen, Jimmy Doil Hitt, Jackie Dwain Cole, Gene Beasley, Marty Robertson and Barney Burns.

Joe Eason was my friend and shipmate. His home was Bristol, GA about 5 miles outside of Waycross. My wife Linda and I spent much time with him and his family. Joe loved the outdoors and although he was the toughest man I've ever known both then and throughout my career as a California Highway Patrolman, he was also the kindest man on the planet. If Joe knew you were his friend he was fiercely loyal, if not he had little time for you. That bare foot bunkin that would never leave you on the battle field is my fondest memory of the 658 boomer. Very few of his shipmates know how Joe died so I will tell you his final story. The year was 1976 and after Joe left the service he became a truck driver, he didn't have a car just a big rig and he had a hot date so Linda and I told him to take our car. He hugged our necks and said he would see us Friday. That was the last time I saw my friend. A week had passed when I received a phone call from shipmate Jay Stradley, he said that he heard Joe was killed in a traffic accident and I confirmed that with his father Abe. Abe told me that Joe his brother Lee, Joe’s Aunt and cousin were in the car together. Joe and Lee had been in a fight in Ludowici, GA and both had been shot and Joe’s Aunt was driving as she rushed them to the hospital when she crossed the center line hitting a big rig head on killing all. I have seen much death in my career and my demons are many but I miss my friend. I miss him every day.

Gettler, Charles R. age 65 of Bloomington. Retired from the U.S. Navy as a Master Chief after 22 years and continued his Federal Service at the V. A. for another 20 years. Preceded in death by parents Maynard and Melva Gettler and nephew Elliot Dircz. Survived by wife, Betty; children John, Christopher (Kate); sisters Linda Kahn, Judy Intlekofer; brother John (Nancy) Gettler; in laws Mary Lou (Tom) Sodergren, Peggy (Daryl) Rogers, and many loving nieces and nephews. Mass of Christian Burial Friday 11:00 AM at Holy Family Catholic Church, 5900 W. Lake St., St. Louis Park. Burial at Dawn Valley Memorial Park in Bloomington. Visitation Thursday 5-8 PM at Morris Nilsen Chapel, 6527 Portland Ave. in Richfield and one hour before Mass at Church. Memorials preferred. Morris Nilsen Chapel 612-869-3226 www.morrisnilsen.com

Gunderson, Mark J. STOUGHTON - Mark John Gunderson, age 49, of Stoughton, went home to his Savior, Jesus Christ, on Thursday, August 23, 2007. He was born in Stoughton on December 12, 1957, a son of Claude and Mary (Bovre) Gunderson. He graduated from Stoughton High School in 1976 and served his country in the Navy for eight years. Mark worked for twenty two years at the St. Mary's Hospital Power Plant. He is survived by his four daughters, Megan (Jeremy) Michel, Sarah (Louis) Athnos, Rachel Gunderson (Erich Schenkenberg), and Amanda Gunderson; his grandchildren, Jordan and Sam Michel, Mikaela and Chloe Athnos, Ethan Peterson, and Blake and Kailey Schenkenberg; his father, Claude (Brenda) Gunderson; his brother, Eric Gunderson; and nephew, Kolby Gunderson. He was preceded in death by his mother, Mary (Bovre) Gunderson. Funeral services will be held on Sunday, August 26, 2007, at 4 p.m. at LAKE VIEW CHURCH, 2200 Lincoln Ave., Stoughton. A private burial will take place on Monday at East Koshkonong Cemetery in Cambridge. The family will greet friends at church on Sunday from 2 p.m. until the time of service. Mark was a loving father, son, brother, and the greatest Grandpa "Pa" in the whole world. He will be greatly missed. In lieu of flowers, those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider memorials in Mark's name to the Stoughton High School Athletic Department, or to the American Cancer Society. Olson-Holzhuter-Cress 206 W. Prospect Ave Stoughton (608) 873-9244

George Wion and granddaughter Brittnie Wright. This picture was taken on 4/3/09 and he died on 5/22/09.

FORT WORTH, TX: Former Bucyrus resident George W. Wion, 61, of 3400 Pebble Beach Way #2040, Fort Worth, Texas, died early Friday morning, May 22, 2009 at North Hills Hospital, North Richland Hills, Texas, of a prolonged illness and complications.

He was born March 25, 1948 in Bucyrus, Ohio and was the son of the late John A. and Lois (Gorham) Wion of Brokensword, and later Bucyrus. He was also preceded in death by a brother, Harry Wion.

He is survived by his wife, Rachel (Johnson) Wion. They married on October 4, 1975, at Brokensword United Methodist Church. In addition to his wife of 33 years, George is survived by his children and their families, Traci and Charles Spicer of Fairfield, Ohio, and daughter, Brittnie; Johnathon Wion and April Osborn of Haltom City, Texas, and children, Gillian, Trey, and Violet; Nicholas and Laurie Wion of Cleveland, Ohio, and children, Alexandra and Jack. He is also survived by his sister, Florence, and brother-in-law, Dwight Harer of Lykens, Ohio; and their family; Jayson and Tammy Harer of Lykens, Ohio, and sons, Zachary and Andrew; Stacey, and Chad Frias, and daughter, Gabriella of Hilliard, Ohio. He was the son-in-law of Wallace and Verna Johnson of Bucyrus; and brother-in-law to Pauline (Johnson) and Cecil Dennis, and sons, Gregory, Wayne, Mark, and Gregg.

A 1966 graduate of Wynford High School, he attended one and one-half years of business college in Cleveland, after which he entered the U.S. Navy and served as a missile technician onboard the nuclear submarine U.S.S. Mariano G. Vallejo during the Vietnam War.

Calling hours will be Wednesday from 2 to 4 and from 6 to 8 at Wise Funeral Service, 129 W. Warren St., Bucyrus, Ohio 44820 where services will be held Thursday, May 28, 2009 at 12 Noon with Deacon Bill Horning officiating. Burial with military honors provided by the American Legion Post #181 of Bucyrus will be at Brokensword Cemetery.

Donations to charity may be sent to the funeral home and will go to the Autism Foundation for research, which was very dear to his heart.

Stephen Bruce Hamblin
Aug 23, 2008 - 08:07:08 CDT
DESLOGE — On August 19, 2008, Stephen Bruce Hamblin, with the grace of God, was freed from the binds of a rare neurological disorder, Progressive Supranuclear Palsy. Bruce, as he was called by his family and friends, attended school and graduated from North County. Chief Petty Officer Hamblin gave 21 years of his life to our country, serving in the United States Navy Submarine Service, retiring in 1995. He was preceded in death by his father, Burl Hamblin and mother, Alice Hamblin. He leaves behind his wife Mary Verta J. Hamblin of Bonne Terre; son, Joshua Hamblin of St. Louis; son, USAF Staff Sargent Mark Hamblin; step-daughters, Jennifer McDavid and family of Park Hills, Melissa Evers and family of Burnesmill; five step-grandchildren, Cotie, Brett, Maddie, Hailey and Albert; sisters, Margaret Danley and family of Caulfield and Madeline Skaggs and family of Desloge. Many nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins and friends as well. We are very grateful for the home visits from those special family members and friends who took the time to come by and spend time, especially during our last weeks together. Bruce was very loved and will be missed dearly. In lieu of flowers we are asking that donations be made to Cure PSP Organization. The information can be found during visitation or at Cure PSP.org Only through research can Progressive Supranuclear Palsy be stopped from taking our loved ones. Visitation will be Saturday, August 23, 2008, at 5 p.m., at C.Z. Boyer & Son Funeral Home in Desloge. Services will be Sunday, August 24, 2008, at 2 p.m., at C.Z. Boyer & Son Chapel with Rev. Robert Eggers, Steve Eldridge, Roy Bearden and Rev. Tisha Mundy officiating. Burial will be at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery in St. Louis, Monday, August 25, 2008, at 10 a.m.

Robert Minton passed away at 1330 CDT today, 3/29/09 in Perkins, OK after a long battle with lung cancer.

Bob is survived by his wife Pam, his son Danny, his daughter Heather, and daughter-in-law Stormy as well as several grandchildren.
Bob was a Vallejo plank owner.
Submitted by
Ben Greenwood 1969-1974

Mr. Terry Lee Rogers, 39, of 200 Line St., Calhoun, GA passed away Wednesday morning, Feb. 4, 2009 at the residence. He was born in Floyd County on July 24, 1969, son of the Rev. Carlton Howard Rogers and Mary Ruth Towe Rogers. He was a member of Union Grove Baptist Church of Calhoun and had served in the Navy for six years onboard the USS SSBN Mariano G. Vallejo, where he was a nuclear weapons technician. He also had his bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Sociology, and Psychology. Survivors include his daughter, Laura Rogers of Rome; a son, David Rogers of Rome; parents, the Rev. Carlton and Ruth Rogers of Adairsville; three brothers, Randy Rogers of Calhoun, Donnie Rogers of Atlanta, and Scotty Rogers of Adairsville; a sister, Staci Jene Rogers of Adairsville; a special friend, Rhonda Smathers of Calhoun; several nieces and nephews. Funeral was Saturday, Feb. 7, at 2:30 p.m. at the chapel of Barton Funeral Home, with the Rev. Larry Towe officiating. Interment followed in Dry Creek Baptist Church Cemetery in Adairsville. Pallbearers were Scotty Barton, Jessie Rogers, Wesley Jamison, David Dotson, Andrew Rogers, and Bryan King. R. Dudley Barton & Son Funeral Home of Adairsville was in charge of arrangements.

Another good Vallejo shipmate has sailed. This past November Jim O’Connell passed away after a two year struggle with Lou Gehrig’s. Jim was a member of the blue crew during the 1970-1972 time frame serving the Weapons department as a TM3(SS). Jim was a wonderful person and served his country well. Submitted by Tom Voss 1/22/09

Gerard Drolet passed away at Melech Hospice House at the age of 49 on Tuesday, Oct. 23, 2007. He was born July 24, 1958, in Woonsocket, RI. He was in the Navy for 6 years and was on the USS MG Vallejo submarine. He also worked at MacDill Airforce Base, Z-tel, and Switch and Data. Gerard was a member of St. Luke's and also attended Nativity Church near Longwood, where he was living. He is survived by his mother, Raffaela; fiance, Martha; stepson, Anthony; and stepdaughter, Jeanette. Visitation will be Thursday, Oct. 25, 6-8 pm, at Dobies Funeral Home, 701 E. Tarpon Ave. Funeral Mass will be Friday, Oct. 26, at St. Ignatius of Antioch Catholic Church. Dobies Funeral Home-Tarpon.

Shipmate Mike Fallatt has laid his oars to rest. Mike was one of the most colorful indviduals I have ever met. My family and I met Mike and Terry at the first 658 All Hands Reunion in Vallejo the summer of 1999. He left such an impression on my kids that they still talk about him today. My daughter still refers to him as "that funny Old Salt", because he told her he was just an old salt from her Dad's sub. Mike was able to attend all 3 of the reunions and he will be terribly missed at future gatherings. My heart goes out to his lovely wife Terry and all of his family members. Stand down Mike, time for you to enjoy the peace that you fought to keep. Jim Carter

Kevin Ray Dixon, 56, of Summerville, SC, husband of Susan (Sue) Marie Baier Dixon, died Friday, April 27, 2007, at a Charleston hospital. Funeral services will be held Tuesday morning, May 1, 2007, at Bethany United Methodist Church at 11 o'clock. Burial will be private. Friends may call at Parks Funeral Home, Monday evening, April 30, 2007, from 6 to 9 o'clock. Memorials may be made to Bethany United Methodist Church, Global Mission Fund, 118 West 3rd South Street, Summerville, SC 29483 or to The Gideons International, Memorial Bible Fund, P.O. Box 943, Summerville, SC 29484-0943. Mr. Dixon was born August 28, 1950, in Beckley, WV, a son of the late Ray Shelby Dixon and the late Lila Marie Mease Dixon. He served in the US Navy for over 10 years and was a local building contractor for over 20 years. He was currently the owner of Rain Tight Roofing. He was an active member of Bethany United Methodist Church. A member of the Global Mission Team, Head Usher, current member of New Journey Sunday School Class and a former member of the Family Circle Sunday School Class. He was a certified church speaker and active in the jail ministry. He was also a member of The Gideons International-Summerville Camp and was Camp President. Survivors include his wife, Susan (Sue) Dixon of Summerville, SC; one son, Kevin Dan Dixon of Summerville, SC; one daughter, Laura M. Dixon of Summerville, SC; three brothers, Mark Dixon of Summerville, SC, Larry Dixon and his wife, Rose of Wheatland, MO and Michael Dixon and his wife, Jane of Kenova, WV; two sisters, Gwynetta Meade and her husband, Brad and Robyn Casteele all of Kenova, WV, and 15 nieces and nephews. Arrangements by PARKS FUNERAL HOME, INC., 130 West 1st North Street, Summerville, SC 29483. Visit our guestbook at www.charleston.net/deaths.

Mike Arrowood joined the Vallejo Gold Crew after commissioning, and was with us at the first missile launch at the Cape. Mike was a Navigation ET. He got appendicitis shortly after the Panama Canal transit and was airlifted off the boat, causing cancelation of the equator crossing Captain Jack had planned. He was held capitive by the Naval Hospital in Panama so they could prove the need for their facility. After six weeks of fixing TVs in the hospital he was released back to the boat during PSA. We all remember Mike's love of flying, he took several of us around Florida from Patrick AFB Aero Club, and later became a commercial pilot during off crew in Hawaii. He flew tourist flights around the volcano during eruptions. One patrol he and Capt. Jack got some DC-8 pilot time between Guam and Wake after talking to the United flight crew at Anderson AFB and showing them their pilot's licenses. Mike left the Navy in 1969 and returned to Oregon where he continued flying. He lost his life doing what he loved, in a flying accident in 1989. Mike was a good shipmate and friend. He is missed.Ed Bills, Charleston, SC - Wednesday, January 02, 2002 at 20:32:30 (EST)

In 2001 we lost two shipmates who were Plank Owners. TMC(SS)Glenn Norton who was the second Gold Crew COB. We met during new construction and remained close for the next 36 years. I miss him very much. TMCS(SS) Billy Avila also left us. We also met during new construction. After retirement Billy and I went to work for Westinghouse spending the next twenty five years there. He also is missed very much.
Gerry McDonald, Silverdale, WA - Monday, December 31, 2001 at 11:08:16 (EST)

On 8 March 2005 we lost shipmate, MM 1 (SS) Timothy E. Schleiger, to a long fight with cancer. Tim was a plank owner in the USS Mariano G. Vallejo Gold Crew and made all her patrols in the Pacific and one in the Atlantic. Tim was my leading first class in the Machinery Division and truly my right arm. The first day I took over the division, Tim told me to get out of his engine room and the reason the chief's quarters was between the engine room and the ward room was so that I would keep the lieutenant out of his hair. I know that I, his shipmates, and his dear wife Dodie miss Tim.

I have no details but we have also lost MM 3 (SS) James Crow who was on Vallejo Blue about 1974 to 1976. He came aboard a seaman and worked his way into "A" Gang. He was one of the most liked young men on the boat and a fine sailor.
Roger K. Shoemaker

My first remembrance of James Crowe was being reminded that he was, due to a resent directive, to be addressed as Seaman Crowe. He was very proud that he was to be addressed in such a formal manner by Officers and Senior Petty Officers.

The following is true to the best of my memory. Fireman Crowe wanted to be in the “A” Gang in the worst way. He was tired of standing planes watches and wanted to stand an important watch such as the Fwd. Auxiliary Man of the Watch and have a path for advancement. “A” Gang was not in any real need of more people but he was willing to do any thing that it may take to become an “A” Ganger. That is when the perfect opportunity presented itself. Seams there was an object, of some sort, stuck in the overboard backup valve, located in the number two sanitary tank. Some one had to go into the “shit” tank and remove what ever was preventing the overboard back up valve from closing. Guess who would do the dirty deed if they would only let him into “A” Div. A time was chosen, when the boat would be able to go to periscope depth to facilitate the tank entry and repair. Fireman Crowe was in the AMR1 getting ready to go into the sanitary tank, when I the EWS become aware of what was taking place. First he had to strip down to his skive shorts, and apply the special antibiotic cream the Corpsman supplied. Then he was wrapped in plastic sheeting, from his head to his ankles, with plastic radiation booties for his feet and rubber gloves for his hands. The last item of his sanitary tank entry suite was an air breathing mask with the hose covered in plastic. There he was in all his glory, suited up and ready to do his bit for “A” Div. The phone in AMR1 rings and every one in the space is informed that due to a contact with a Russian ship we had to go deep and would stay there for some time, the sanitary tank repair had to be postponed. Every one was disappointed but none as mush Seaman Crowe, all ready suited up and rearing to do his duty for ship and country. “The boat does not have to be shallow for me to do the repair, I would be more than willing to go in and do it with the boat at depth”. Every one sympatric with him, but there is nothing they can do. Just maybe if he talked with the Officer of the Deck in person and pleaded his case, they would let him dive the sanitary tank. Off he goes to the control room, greased up, suited up, dragging his plastic covered hose to present his case. The proper phone calls are made. Chief Cauthen (Tiney) had the Dive and is waiting for Seaman Crowe. It’s hard for every one in the control room to keep a straight face as Seaman Crowe in his “Shit Tank Suit” begs the OOD to let him go frolic in the sanitary tank, amongst the filth and scum. To on avail he is rejected on all accounts. The safety of the boat has to come first. There he stands dejected and beaten. His chance to be part of something important and to advance in, this his beloved, United States Navy has slipped through his greasy hands. With head down, he starts for the AMR1, when Chief Tiny calls him back, with. “Welcome to the “A” Gang Fireman Crowe”.

That is how Fireman Crowe made it into the “A” division. As I remember he was one of the most reliable, sharp, and clean cut young sailors that I had the pleasure to serve with. I remember that he always has a positive out look on life and the Navy. I know that I liked to talk with him though I did not often have the opportunity. Roger K. Shoemaker MMCM (SS) Ret., formally of the Mariano G. Vallejo SSBN 658, Jul 73 to May 76

William Sonny Thomas died in September of 1998. Sonny served from 1970 to 1972. His former shipmates mourn his death.
Carl Desselle - Wednesday, December 19, 2001 at 21:33:27 (EST)

On 28 May 1992 we lost shipmate ETC (SS) Joe A. Brady, to an aneurysm while working on his retirement property in Oregon. Joe was a plank owner of the USS Mariano G. Vallejo Blue Crew and made her first patrols in the Pacific leaving the boat in 1968. Joe was the Reactor Control Leading Chief. Chief Brady returned to Vallejo in 1975 and served on her until 1977, and transferred to the Fleet Reserve in 1980. I know that I, his shipmates, and his dear wife Ruth miss Joe. Roger K. Shoemaker MMCM (SS) Ret., formally of the Mariano G. Vallejo SSBN 658, Jul 73 to May 76

This week we lost another shipmate. Karl Sax laid his oars to rest. God be with his family in their time of need.
Jim Carter, Reno, NV - Saturday, February 24, 2001 at 04:04:37 (EST)

Kenny Maxey came aboard the Vallejo the same time I did. We weren't really friends at first but after a patrol and working on ship quals together we very quickly bonded into one of those rare lasting friendships. Kenny was killed in a motorcycle accident shortly after his discharge in 1982. He is gone but never far away from my daily thoughts. The other friends I made on board, Joe Howenstein, Tom Bickerton and especially Jim Vennard have lasted me these 23 years and I hope to see them through to the end of my days. These men were the inspiration for this web project. After crossing their paths again following many years of separation, it gives me the drive to continue this all in the hope every shipmate that visits our site will find at least one long lost friend.
Jim Carter, Reno, NV USA - Saturday, February 17, 2001 at 20:18:09 (EST)

EM2(SS) Lyle O. Doody served aboard the Vallejo in 1974 - 1975. He was a member of USSVI Buffalo Base. Lyle passed away in North Tonawanda, NY, November 3, 2003, after a long illness.
Bruce McCausland, USSVI Buffalo Base, NY, USA - Wednesday, November 5, 2003 (EST)

TMC(SS) Dudley Koelman served aboard the Vallejo from the early 70's until 1977. He served as Chief of the Boat part of that time. Those of us who knew him will remember his great sense of humor and exceptional ability to motivate others and to "train" junior officers. He was always fair but demanding, and sugar-coated nothing! Dudley went on eternal patrol October 26th, 1996. The email address associated with his name on the Crewlist page is that of his son, Curt. Curt would love to hear from any of you who knew the one and only Dudley Koelman.
Curt Piper, Northern California, Wednesday, December 10, 2003 at 1:12 PM

MSCS(SS) Cecil Weeks served aboard Vallejo for over nine years. Cecil died February 28, 2004 at his home in Isle of Palms, SC. He was only 61. Cecil was very well liked and respected by his shipmates, and will be deeply missed.
Randy Bognar, MSC(SS), Ret. Monday, March 1, 2004.

Captain Henry John Schneider, USN served as Commanding Officer of Vallejo Gold (before the 1970 overhaul) and Blue Crew after the overhaul. Captain Schneider passed away on April 17, 2005. Born on January 29, 1934, he was a 1957 graduate of the United States Naval Academy. Captain Schneider made it his business to ensure that Vallejo came out of overhaul every bit the showboat she was going into the yards.
Edward J. Carey, AIC, CPC Alexandria, Virginia 22312. Sunday, May 1, 2005.

TM2(SS) Walter Harrison Jirak III (Blue Crew during Newport News overhaul) passed away January 1, 2005 at the age of 55. No additional information is known.
Robert McFarland, MT1(SS), Long Beach, CA 90808. Wednesday, July 13, 2005.

Bruce Bidwell, believed to be Gold Crew in the early seventies, passed away suddenly on February 6th, 2006. This information is provided by his brother, Keith, who adds that Bruce was very proud to have served aboard Vallejo and thought highly of his shipmates.
Keith Bidwell, Monday, February 13, 2006.

EMCS(SS) John David Cooper, Blue Crew in the early seventies, passed away May 17, 2006, in Charleston, SC. John attended recent reunions and had a number of interesting and funny stories to share. A good friend and shipmate, John will be missed!
QMC(SS) Jerry Farr, Ret. Sunday, May 21, 2006.

In behalf of the commissioning Blue Crew, I am submitting the following tribute to our beloved skipper, Doug Guthe:

Captain Douglas Guthe, a 1949 graduate of the Naval Academy, was in every sense of the term "a submariner's submariner." Captain "Goody" as he was affectionately known in the inimitable cartoons of the Blue Crew's weekly paper, was cool and professional when in a crisis, and was a warm and very affable friend to all when things were relaxed. As his XO, I was truly privileged to become a close friend and shipmate, but more than anything else, I learned from one of the best. In addition to being as smart as they come about things technical, he was a whiz at cards and dice games. We would go up to the club at Anderson and Captain Guthe would start a "friendly"game of horse or whatever at the bar, and sooner or later some poor USAF mullet would bite and the fun would begin. But he always let them get their losses back. Doug Guthe was one of the most capable officers I ever knew in 39 years in uniform, and I am absolutely certain that if his life had not been taken by lung cancer at the age of 46, he would have been selected for flag rank. The Navy lost a truly superb officer, and all of us who knew and served with him lost a great friend and shipmate.

On 10 May 2000 we lost shipmate ETCM (SS) Richard (Dick) Dietz to a fight with cancer. Dick served on Vallejo in 1972 to 1973, and according to his son, “Dad loved his submarines and his shipmates.” He also said that “I was fortunate to have the 'Master Chief' as a role model."

On 18 May 2001 we lost shipmate ETCM (SS) Gary L. Patterson. Chief Patterson was a plank owner, serving aboard Vallejo from 1965 to 1968. Gary is survived by his wife Judy, who with his shipmates, miss him.

Lt. John J. Wandell Jr., was lost to us in 1967 to a boating accident in the coastal waters out of Bodega Bay in Northern California. His body was never found although the crew conducted several searches. His loss was taken very hard by the crew because he was well liked and the first person lost to a newly commissioned ship.

Walter B. (Berry) Davis who served as Navigator from 1976 to 1978 died from injuries in an automobile accident, in 1998. Berry is missed by his wife Carol Fairchild Davis and his shipmates.

A.T. (Teddy) Gardner, MM 1 (SS) a Gold Crew Plank Owner and who also serviced another tour from 1981 to 1984 aboard Vallejo, passed October 27, 1995. Teddy, who had had heart bypass surgery, died peacefully on his front porch after a walk with his wife.

Shipmate Donald R. Ammerman a Gold Crew Plank Owner Departed us in 1987 after retiring in Bremerton, WA.

Charlie Spelgatti MM1(SS), Gold Crew, 1968-1972. Charlie and I checked aboard the same day and became close friends. Charlie passed away from cancer in August of 1999. He is survived by his wife Jane, daughters Lonna and Cheryl and son Dan who is a chief in the Navy. Charlie Gettler, MMCM(SS)

ET1(SS) Archibald T. Porter: A Vallejo plank owner, on board when the ship was launched at Mare Island Naval Shipyard in 1966. Assigned to Gold Crew at Commissioning, he made four patrols in the RC Division before being transferred from the ship to Whidbey Island Naval Air station. He had previously served on other SSBNs before his assignment to the Vallejo. He later served on the USS Nautilus and USS Daniel Boone before retirement. After Navy retirement, Arch worked at Palo Verde Nuclear Power Station Unit #1 in Arizona as a Lead Instrument Technician for many years. Arch died of diabetic-related complications on 31 August 1997. Submitted by John Malik ETR2(SS)

Gerald A. "Jerry" Burns, of Evansville, Indiana, entered into eternal rest on February 4, 2008, after a brief illness. Jerry was born in Evansville on April 22, 1948, to Bernice A. Burns and Gerald W. Burns. He was preceded in death by his father in 1974, and his mother in 2004. Jerry proudly served in the U.S. Navy for 22 years after graduating from North High School in 1966. He was a submarine nuclear propulsion plant supervisor for 15 years. After retiring from the Navy in 1989 as Senior Chief, he spent 14 years with Westinghouse in Carlsbad, N.M. Surviving are two sons, Jason Burns of Sierra Vista, Ariz., and Kelly Burns and his wife, Rosemary, of Houston, Texas; three sisters and their husbands, Georgia and Jim Beck of Pace, Fla., Brenda and Bill Oster of Los Angeles, Calif., and Terry and Larry Campbell of Evansville; his brother and his wife, Larry and Cindy Burns of Boonville, Ind. Also surviving are grandsons, Cody Burns and Connor Nickoli; his uncle, Bob Hoeche; aunt, Joyce Mitchell; and his best fishing buddy for the past 25 years, Deborah Burns of Middleburg, Fla. Jerry had many friends all over the country and two special nephews he loved to share his fishing wisdom with, Michael Bagley and Puddin' (Ellis) MacHale. There are also many other special nieces, nephews, grandnieces and nephews and cousins left to share his memory. Friends may gather with the family from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Friday at Pierre FuneralHome, 2601 W. Franklin Street. Memorial services will be held 1 p.m. Friday, February 8, 2008, at Pierre Funeral Home, The Rev. Joshua Hammond officiating. Friends and family may leave condolences online at www.pierrefuneralhome.com.

My father, CWO3 Rogers Masson, died on 31AUG89 in Asheville, NC. He joined the Navy in 1956 as an E1, found his way on to his first diesel boat, worked his way up through E9, became a CWO and a graduate of the Naval Postgraduate School, served on the Caiman, the Blackfin, the Redfin, the Dace, the Tullibee, the Patrick Henry, the Abraham Lincoln, and finally retired in 1978 having served on the 658 boat from 75-78 as the Assistant Weapons Officer under the command of Capt. Collins. I have few memories of his time in the Navy as I was only 10 when he retired, however I do have one that stands out clear. My dad had broken his leg and a patrol was coming up. He insisted on going, and I can remember watching him on crutches hobbling away from the car in to the dark towards the gate. This is truly what he loved to do, and truly who he was as a man. A submariner. My dad died while I was stationed at Little Creek, VA and I was honored to escort his ashes to the Portsmouth Naval Hospital, where I was born in 68, and later to USS Norfolk (SSN714) from which he was buried approx 36N by74W, fulfilling what he called his “…deepest honor, to be with my fellow shipmates of the Thresher as well as those who have gone before, and will go after.”.

"I can imagine no more rewarding a career. And any man who may be asked in this century what he did to make his life worthwhile, I think can respond with a good deal of pride and satisfaction: 'I served in the United States Navy."' John F. Kennedy

We saw the postings on your Wonderful site for Sailors at Eternal Rest and wanted to send an update on Jim's death. He was killed in a car accident on June 7, 1978 in Indianapolis, IN at the age of 23 yrs. He had been working at a company that specialized in high air pressure systems using the skills he had learned in the Navy. He was very proud of his time spent on the Submarine and made lasting friendships while serving his Country. Thanks for the GREAT website! We enjoy seeing the pictures of Jim because they show that even while he was doing a serious job, he always found time to find humor and share it with others.

If you have information that should be added to this page, please email it to me.

USS MG Vallejo SSBN 658

Memorial Wall

In fond remembrance of our shipmates on eternal patrol.