Ships / boats served on: SS-241, SSN-571, SSBN-619, SSBN-657, SSBN-627
Richard Daniel "Dan" Barker, 78, of Washington, IN, passed away on March 6, 2016. He was born on January 23, 1938 in Big Stone Gap, VA to Victor C. and Vera Mae (Neeley) Barker. On October 29, 1965 he married the love of his life Peggy (Wineinger) Barker. They just celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary.
Dan is survived by his wife, Peggy Barker; his sons William David Barker (Lorrie), and Ronald Rhodes Barker II; daughter Karen Lynne Hamm (Reed); 7 grandchildren Ryne Hamm (Lindsey), Brenna Leigh Edmiston (Tyler), Devyn Barker, Weston Barker, Kaitlyn Nicole Barker, Boston Delany Barker, Cullen Barker; 2 great grandchildren Emma Lou Hamm, and Liam "Itty Bitty Buddy" Hamm; and brother William Joseph Barker (Rebecca Marie). He is preceded in death by his parents; step father Ben Chatfield; siblings James J. Barker, Iris Lee Barker, Ronald Rhodes Barker I, Wesley Wayne Barker and Jerry Dean Barker.
11/09/07 - Received this e-mail from Joe Heflin TM3 Gold Crew and roommate of Nick's.
BEARD, Percy M., Jr., CAPT, USN, Ret., 82, of Atlanta, Georgia passed away peacefully on December 23, 2018 surrounded by his loving family. Pat was born in Opelika, Alabama on March 31, 1936, the son of Percy and Sara Beard. He graduated from Gainesville High School, Gainesville, FL in June 1954 and entered the Naval Academy that same month. While at the Academy he participated on the track team and graduated with distinction in 1958 as a member of The 9th Company. He was selected for post graduate education under The Burke Program and received a PhD in nuclear physics from Duke University in 1964. He then entered the Navy's nuclear power program and served on five nuclear submarines and was the commanding officer of the USS Frances Scott Key (Gold). His final assignment was Commanding Officer of USS Simon Lake before retirement in October 1981. Simon Lake was the first submarine tender to serve at the newly established Kings Bay, Georgia Naval Base in 1979. His many awards included The Legion of Merit.
Carl William Beck, age 84, passed away on January 7, 2021 in Seven Points, TX..
Steven L. Berry, Sr., 71, of Summerville, SC, died Friday, January 13, 2012 at the Hospice Center of Charleston. Mr. Berry was born February 19, 1940 in Detroit, MI, son of the late Leon L. Berry and Ada Gladys Martin Berry. He attended Fordson High School in Michigan. 


Joseph "Joe" G. Borntrager, age 74 of Billings, Montana, formerly of Glendive, Montana, passed away on Thursday, December 15, 2022 at the Billings Clinic Hospital in Billings. A memorial service with military honors will be held at 10:00 A.M., Friday, January 6, 2023 at the Glendive Evangelical Church with Pastor David Steinbron officiating. A luncheon will be held immediately following in the church basement. Silha Funeral Home of Glendive is entrusted with the arrangements.
MARTINEZ, Ga. - Mr. James Herbert Bowen, 72, of Englewood Dr. Entered into rest Sunday, October 9, 2011, at Doctors Hospital, Augusta, Ga. Funeral Services will be held at 11: A.M. Thursday Oct. 13, 2011, at the St. Teresa Avila Parish, in Martinez, Ga. with Father Gaspar Hegedus Officiating, interment will follow at the Fellowship Baptist Church Cemetery in Gibson, Ga. Mr. James was Retired from the Navy after Twenty plus years of Service, he also worked at the University Hospital as a Security Guard, and was a Member of the St. Teresa Avila Parish for Ten Years. He also Served in the Air Force for a short while. He is Survived His Daughter Dawn (Thomas) Bowen Hockert of Martinez, a Step-Daughter Catherine (Bob) Kinner of Martinez, Five Grandchildren, Tyler James Bowen, Robert Kinner, Brenda Kinner, Ronda Kinner, and Deborah Spargo, and Two Great Grandchildren, Catherine Spargo and Brianna Spargo. He was preceded in Death by his Loving Wife Mrs. Edna Chalker Bowen, His Parents William and Deloris Westkamp Bowen, two Sisters Shirley Sharp and Sis Dawes. Pallbearers are Bob Kinner, Thomas Hockert, Don Chalker, Tyler Bowen, Chandler Hockert, and Allen Williams. One Honorary Pallbearer, Derek Griffen. The Family will receive Friends Thursday at the Parish one hour (10:A.M.) before the Service. Memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society . Sheppard Funeral Home, Gibson, Ga. is in charge of Arrangements. Sign the guestbook at AugustaChronicle.com/obits The Augusta Chronicle-October 11, 2011Published in The Augusta Chronicle on October 11, 2011
It is with great sadness that I am informing you that one of our shipmates (and a great friend to me) James Bradsberry from the Gold Crew 1982-1988 passed away on Dec. 1st, 2016 un-expectantly. He is survived by his wife Linda and sister Sue. James was always the most personable, funny and great shipmates aboard the Key during his time on board. He is very much missed.
April 19, 2008 - We received notice of the passing of shipmate Tyler Brayton Gold Crew 1976 - 79. Below you can read his obituary.
CDR James P. Brown, USN(R) of Port Ludlow, WA and Alpine, CA passed away on October 2, 2021. He served in the Navy from 1980 to 2002. In 1980 Jim applied for the US Navy Nuclear Power Program and was accepted after a tough but successful interview with the legendary Admiral Hyman Rickover, director of Naval Nuclear Propulsion. He was certified for the operations and maintenance of the Navy's nuclear power plants onboard submarines. CDR Brown went on to serve on the USS Francis Scott Key (SSBN-657) as Nuclear Power Division Officer on the USS Key West (SSN722) as Engineer Officer.
BROWN, Jeffrey Scott, 57, of Summerville, SC, died Friday, May 19, 2023. Jeff was born November 25, 1965, in Maryland, son of the late Edward E. Brown and the late Joyce P. Brown. Jeff graduated from Berkeley High School in 1984. He was a U.S. Navy Submarine Veteran who served on the USS Francis Scott Key (SSBN-657) and was employed as an electrician.
Qualified in submarines on the USS Dace (SSN-607) in 1966 and was a ETCS(SS) when he left the Navy.
Bobby Joe Buckner (BUCK) passed away on Sunday, March 17th, 2024 at the VA Hospital in San Antonio Texas. He was an MM3 (SS) who served in the Seaman Gang and A-division on the Gold Crew from 1967 - 1971. This is all the information we have but will update when we have more..
Bunting, Charles M. 72, of Las Vegas passed away peacefully Monday March 6 2017. Charles was a loving husband, father, grandfather and a proud veteran of the US Navy as a Chief Construction Mechanic. His love for his country was only second to the love for his family.
Orville Campbell, 92 formerly of Lisbon, CT died February 14, 2025 at his home in Bluffton, SC. He was born on April 12, 1932 in Conshohocken, PA, the eldest child of Orville Restbrook Campbell and Martha Louise (Slifer) Campbell. Orville met his beloved wife, Janet Aleatha Parry Campbell, while on leave early in his Navy career. They eloped on December 18, 1953 in Elkton, MD. They waited until after Janet finished nursing school and renewed their vows "in Our Father's House (church)" on September 11, 1954 in Norristown, PA. She died from the virus (COVID-19) in 2021.
Following his graduation from American Fork High School, Lloyd Carson joined the United States Navy and began his naval career by serving aboard the USS Wedderburn (DDG-684). He then went to submarine training school and served aboard submarines USS Jallao (SS 368), USS Francis Scott Key (SSBN 657), USS Nathan Hale (SSBN 623) and the USS Woodrow Wilson (SSBN 624). Lloyd enjoyed a 20 year career, retiring in 1979 as a Quartermaster Senior Chief and settled his family back in American Fork, UT.
Received this e-mail from Stan Rarden
Being born into a military family, James had the opportunity to spend over six years in Bavaria where he learned to ski at Berchtesgaden with his father's 10th Special Forces Group. His childhood in Germany had a profound influence on him for the rest of his life.
Reginal A. Clarke (ETC, SS Ret.), age 84, died on December 22, 2020 at Bayfront Health Seven Rivers Hospital after a long battle with the COVID-19 virus.
Wesley Gene Clements, of Groesbeck, passed away at home on Thursday, May 6, 2021, at age 63. He had endured a lengthy battle with cancer.
02/16/07 - Received this e-mail from Mike Robertson TM2 Gold Crew 69 - 72:

Raymond J. Cote, 80, passed away on Wednesday, January 20, 2021 at Katherine Shaw Bethea Hospital in Dixon, Illinois. Ray was born on July 30, 1940 to Henry and Gabrielle (Caron) Cote in Rochelle, IL. After high school, he proudly served with the United States Navy. After the navy he went to work at the University of Hawaii institute of geophysics as electronics technician on university research vessels.
Commander Benjamin Bryan Covington, USN, Retired
My brother James Robert Cox served on the USS Francis Scott Key (1972-1974). I was searching for photographs of him and came across your e-mail. I can not locate a photograph of him in uniform. He was probably one of the skinniest young men to ever serve in the Navy, he did fill out in later years. We are all proud of his service. Attached is his memorial service announcement and a photograph of his marker at the Cox Family Cemetery in Vinton County, OH. Please let me know if I need to submit any other information.
Found this obituary on the USSVI web site.. Qualified in submarines on the USS Sam Rayburn (SSBN-635) in 1965 and was a CDR when he left the Navy.
Charles Kenneth Davidson Jr., 64, of Athens, passed away Wednesday, May 22, 2019, at his residence. He was a native and lifelong resident of Athens. 
I received several e-mails from Steve's former shipmate Mark DeRyke who had been searching the internet for his old friend. Mark found a brief notice of Steve's death in Granbury, TX in 2009. Here is Mark's e-mails: 
Interment will occur later this summer at Arlington National Cemetery, with full military honors. In lieu of flowers, please make donations in memory of Captain Hugh Doherty, in honor of his grandson Finn Doherty, to the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, 60 Walnut Street, Wellesley Hills, Massachusetts 02481.

Notice received February 17, 2009 from Jack's brother Jeff:
Cold War Submariner Jerry Edwards of Granbury, TX, 81, departed on his final and eternal patrol on 4/17/2021.
Timothy Elmer Estes, ETR1(SS) Vallejo, CA Passed away on 12/11/2019
On May 10, 2011 I received notice from Doc Reed of the USSVI Hawkbill base in Idaho of John's passing. Below is his obituary found in the Idaho Falls Post Register.
Commander Bobby Joe Felton, age 80 of Sparta, Tennessee died peacefully at his home surrounded by family and friends on December 1, 2022.
March 30, 2015, our shipmate and friend, Glenn Francis Fleming, departed on Eternal Patrol in Charleston SC. Glenn was a USSVI National Member (2013), a USSVI Charleston Base Member (2013) and a Holland Club Member. He enlisted in the Navy in 1959 and retired in 1985. He qualified on SKATE SSN 578 in 1963. He also served on SNOOK SSN 592, CHARR SS 328, BARB SSN 596, SAM HOUSTON SSBN/SSN 609, JAMES MADISON SSBN 627, FRANCIS SCOTT KEY SSBN 657 and NATHAN HALE SSBN 623.
James Perry Forsyth, lost a long and courageous battle with Parkinson's disease at the age of 83. He was born in River Falls, WI on Dec. 31, 1927 to the late Perry and Mary Jane Forsyth. He graduated from New Richmond High School in 1945, and four years later enlisted in the U.S. Navy as a seaman recruit. After attending electronics technician school and basic submarine school, he was assigned to the USS Remora SS 487 in San Diego.
I was saddened to hear of the passing of one of the finest naval officers I ever had occasion to sail with. Capt. Forsyth and I got off to a "rocky" start when he came aboard the Key. I had already made several patrols with the Gold Crew and was comfortable in the ELT lab and with my M Div assignments. Shortly after the change of command I was summoned to the wardroom where Capt Forsyth remarked on my tenure aboard and the lack of my qualification as EWS. He then told me I had a certain number of weeks to present myself back in the ward room for either a Captain's Mast or an EWS board, my choice. Needless to say I did qualify as an EWS and went into four section rotation with three chiefs, with me doing the midwatch. One of the Captain's preferences was to sleep during the day and prowl all night. How many times after assuming the watch, and being summoned to Maneuvering so the EOOW could have a coffee/head break, did I hear the snaps being pulled on the curtain behind the chair in Maneuvering and see the grinning face of our leader, full of surprises for me. I think within the first couple of weeks we ran more drills, including transferring reactor control to AMR2, than I could imagine. If I didn't know how to be an EWS when I left that qualification board, I sure as hell did when that patrol was over. Was I happy at the time? Hell no. But later in life, I appreciated being made to stretch, to learn and gain confidence. I have always been grateful to Jim Forsyth for that.
I remember chatting with the Captain in LLAMR1 while he worked on his clock that he had to build for his clockmaker's certification and the discussions we had on organic gardening that passed the time on patrol.
09/21/2012 - Received notice of Ray's passing from his ex-wife Lori Ann Lydard. Lori was married to Ray during his time on the Key. Ray served on the gold crew from 75 - 78.
Learned from Richard Grube, A-Gang 75 - 79/B, of the passing of Gary Furst in 1998. Gary died in an auto accident. Gary and Richard were close friends. Gary attended Richards wedding and the two went on several fishing and camping trips right up until his death. Gary is wearing cutoffs in this picture.
I found this obituary in www.legacy.com on Dec 10, 2011 and added it here.
NORWICH - Francis "Frank" P Gavigan Jr, 77, passed away peacefully at his home on Tuesday, January 28th 2025 with his family by his side.
Dennis Dewayne Getz, 58, of Alexandria, VA died Monday, September 30, 2013. Beloved husband and soul mate of 18 years, light of her life, joy of her days and world of 20 years, of Sharon M. Subalusky; devoted, caring best friend of Roxy and Duncan, proud father of Danielle Getz and JD Getz; dear son of Bob and Dorothy Getz of Appleton City, Missouri; brother of Randy Getz. Also survived by many nieces, nephews, cousins, aunts, uncles, in-laws and friends.
Received and e-mail from William Edie letting us know of Frank Giancola "Pepsi's" passing. I was able to find his obituary online and have included it here. James served from approx 1971 - 1974 on the Key blue and combined crews in Bremerton.
In March 2022 we received notice of Bobby's passing from his daughters Julie and Jennifer. They asked that their dad be added to the Crew List as he would have loved this site. We have proudly added our shipmate to the Crew List and thank his daughters for their thoughtfulness.
Served as MPA on Gold Crew in the early 70's. We were notified of Kent's passing by Bill Wendland Key Gold 70 - 75.
Obituary for Mr. William Joseph Hanley III - Gold Crew 84 - 87 A- Gang
CPO Herbert Phillips Harden, USN, Ret., 84, of North Charleston, SC, entered into eternal rest on Tuesday, February 19, 2019. His Funeral Service will be held Friday, February 22, 2019 in the J. Henry Stuhr, Inc., Northwoods Chapel, 2180 Greenridge Road at 2:00 pm. Interment will follow at Carolina Memorial Park. The family will receive friends Friday from 12:00 pm to 2:00 pm in Stuhr Northwoods Chapel.
Received ans e-mail from Paul Filmore regarding the passing of XO Chuck Harner.
Harring, William R., III, 68, husband of Anna (Tarantini) Harring of Don Ross Drive, passed Feb. 1, at home with his loving family at his side.

Lance Scott Hartman passed away peacefully in his sleep at the age of 79 on June 26, 2021. He is survived by his wife of 54 years, Marie Hartman of Richland, WA; daughter Christy Jenkins, son-in-law Allen Jenkins, grandchildren Cameron Jenkins and Sydney Jenkins all of West Richland, WA; Brother Jeff Hartman of Juneau, AK and numerous extended family members. Lance was preceded in death by his son, Mike Hartman, and his parents Dean and Mary Hartman of Richland, WA.
LCDR (Ret.) Calvin Gene Hendrix, a proud veteran of the United States Navy and Airforce Civil Service, entered God's kingdom on December 29, 2023, at the age of 60. He was born Tuesday May 28, 1963, in Chiseldon, England to the late Billy Hendrix, USAF (Ret.) Vietnam veteran and Wendy Hendrix-Kret. Calvin grew up in a military family, moving from place to place, eventually settling in Panama City, FL where he attended Rutherford High School.
XO of the Gold Crew in 1970. Died in a plane crash outside of Charlotte, NC on September 11, 1974. Jack had become the CO of the John C Calhoun SSBN 630. Jack was born in Hamilton, OH in 1936. Our thanks to Greg Weber for getting us this info on Jack.
Scott T. Holtan , ET2(SS) 81 - 82
Scott is survived by his wife, Anne and sons, Ryan and Tyler of Coal Valley, IL; his father-in-law and mother-in-law, Ron & Marilyn Raymond, Rock Island, IL; sister, Maria (Kurt) Olson, Humboldt, IA, sister-in-law, Linda Holtan, Las Vegas; sister-in-law, Amy(Douglas) Zdansky, TX; sister-in-law, Alissa (Martin) Oliva, Orion, IL, brother-in-law, AJ Taylor, Forest City, IA; aunts & uncles, Mark (Shirley) Holtan, Thor, IA; Tim (Dixie Long) Holtan, Gilmore City, IA; Bonnie Holtan, Holyoke, MA; nieces & nephews, Alissa (Mike) Williamson, Brittany(Andy) Struecker, Craig (Lolly) Olson, Adam (Megan) Olson, Connor and Cody Holtan, Jakoby Veronda, Alec (Alli) Veronda, Emilio, Audi & Ella Oliva. Great nieces & nephews; Scarlett, Julia, Walker, Autumn, Anna, Jackson, Ryker, Eden, Carter. Many cousins and special friends!
Passed away on 3/17/2013. Member of the USSVI First Coast base.
Howarth, 82, and Nancy Elaine Howarth, 78, of North Charleston, South Carolina both entered into eternal rest Monday, March 25, 2024. Their Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, April 13, 2024 at Hillcrest Baptist Church at 11am; visitation will be one hour prior.
Charles Edward Hughes (Chuck) of Salisbury, North Carolina passed away on December 9, 2022, at his home. Born September 19, 1940, in Waynesboro, Va., he was the oldest child of Austin and Maydel Dudley Hughes.
HURDER, James B. Of Holbrook, MA passed away, April 15th at the age of 68. Jim was born, raised, and educated in Boston and had been a resident of Holbrook for 15 years. Jim retired from the US Navy, was a member of the Boston-based Subvets and worked at Weymouth Honda for many years. His hobbies included working on cars and drawing.
IVY, Eldon Earl, 81, of Salem and formerly of Groton, died Wednesday, Nov. 16, 2016, with his wife, Sheryl, by his side. They had celebrated their sixth wedding anniversary on Monday. He was born Jan. 1, 1935, in Colorado Springs, Colo., the son of Samuel and Pauline (Blount) Ivy. He joined the Navy and served on the USS Bushnell, and the submarines USS Redfish, USS Tecumseh, USS Francis Scott Key and USS George Bancroft. He was also the chief master at arms at the Submarine Base in Groton. He is a veteran of the Korean and Vietnam Wars, retiring in 1975 as master chief.
Received this e-mail on June 6th reporting the passing of Willie Jarnagin 84 - 89
Willie was a big fan of formula one racing and cars in general, and he was an avid reader, but spending time with his family was his favorite past time. Along with his parents, Willie is survived by his wife, Barbara, of 28 years; son, Benjamin; and sister, Patricia Boshears; his mother-in-law, Joy Bale; and sister-in-law, Christine Hanlon.
We received the below e-mail from a retired navy person who worked with Richard.
Robert Allen Jones departed this life suddenly on May 19, 2016, with his beloved wife, Brenda, at his side. Although gone, he will never be forgotten by his many friends and his family. Robert was born in Frankfort, Germany on. July 30, 1956. He enjoyed reading, building models and classic rock music. 

Cold War Submarine Veteran, Jared P. Kennedy Sr., passed away February 17, 2022 after prolonged health issues - he was 82 years old.
Timothy J. Kersey, loving husband, father, grandfather and nephew, entered into eternal rest at the age of 64 on July 30, 2021. A resident of Indianapolis he was born on October 30, 1956 in West Lafayette, Indiana.
KLINGER, David Calvin, 80, of San Antonio, Texas, died on December 24,2020. He was the beloved husband of Marilyn (Nutt) Klinger and they enjoyed 56 years together in marriage. The son of Richard and Helen( Reed) Klinger, he was predeceased by his brothers Richard and Robert of
KNIGHT, Clarence A. "Gus" Jr. 77, of Brockton, March 23, 2013. Son of the late Clarence A. Knight Sr. & Winifred Mernick Knight. Beloved husband of Joan M. (Gerraughty) Knight for 56 years. Loving father of Linda Knight Guild & her fiance Mike Bishop, Joseph H. Knight & his wife Donna Horsman Knight & Sandra L. Knight. Grandfather of Melissa Guild, Kimberly Knight Grenier & Jennifer Knight; great-grandfather of Cameron Michael Grenier. Brother of Christine Knight Perrault & the late Artemus Knight and his widow Lee & an uncle of many nieces & nephews. All are welcome to calling hours Wednesday 4-8 p.m. in Waitt Funeral Chapel at Waitt Funeral Home, 850 North Main St., BROCKTON. Funeral from Waitt Funeral Home Thursday at 9 a.m., funeral Blessing at 10 a.m. at Christ the King Parish & committal at the VA National Cemetery, Bourne. In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be made to Children's Hospital Boston (Oncology), PO Box 414421, Boston, MA 02241-4421
Ronald Koca, age 88, of The Villages, Florida and Twin Lakes, WI passed away on May 24, 2023. Ron owned Lake Front Tool in Twin Lakes for 30 years. Devoted husband of Veronica (Pucel) Koca, and the late Elaine (Kolar) Koca. Father of Wendy (Mike) Rohrs and Jeffrey Koca and the late Ronald Koca Jr. Brother of the late Albert, Adolph, Marie, Mildred, Joseph, and Lillian & brother-in-law to Donald Czochara. Stepfather of Bruce (Denise) Pucel, Grandfather of Michael (Carly) Rohrs, Avery (Tanner) Leyden, Alexa and Alyvia Rohrs, Karianne (Christopher) Longtin, Kristy (Brad) Feine. Great grandfather of Gabriella & Sophia Longtin and Adalyn & Emery Feine and many nieces & nephews (especially: Craig, Clyde, Clifford, and the late Cary Cerer) 
MCPO Clarence Albert "Al" Lammers, USN Ret., 71, of Ladson, SC, entered into eternal rest Sunday, January 19, 2014 at Trident Hospital. His memorial service will be held Saturday, February 22, 2014 in American Legion Post 166 in Goose Creek at 3:00 pm.
Paul Mitchell "Mickey" Lee Sr., age 62, of Milton, Florida, passed away, Sunday, July 2, 2017. Retired MMCM.
Captain Joseph Bailey Logan, USN Retired, 68, of Dendron, Va., died Thursday, Nov. 12, 1998, in Williamsburg, VA. A native of Arkansas, Captain Logan enlisted in the Navy in 1948. He attended the U. S. Naval Academy where he graduated with the class of 1953.
We learned of PWs passing on December 21, 2023 but have not received any further information.The picture is from the 2008 Key Reunion. He is seen with his wife Sandy.
Plank Owner, COB of Blue Crew in 1974 - 75. FTG passed in December 2008. We received notice of his passing from his son David IV on July 12, 2010. Here is his sons e-mail:
July 12, 2023
We received notice of Bob's passing from his wife Anna. Here is her message: "This is Bob’s wife, Anna. Bob passed away July 10th. He had acute leukemia. His physician seems to feel that it was probably due to exposure to ionizing radiation while serving in the Navy. I wanted to let his shipmates know, and ask if you are aware of anyone keeping track of nucs/submariners that contract leukemia. The VA routinely denies the claims and denies the data that they are basing their decision on to the claimants on the basis that it is “classified information”.
William Elliott McClain, III passed away on September 12, 2020. William "Bill" was born on September 15, 1943 to the late William E. McClain, Jr. and Ramona L. McClain in Columbia, Missouri. Bill is survived by his brothers: Edd McClain (Heidi) of Big Canoe, GA, Gary McClain (Susan) of Maumelle, AR, Jon McClain of Beverly, MA, and Andrew McClain of Ellicott City, MD, plus many nieces and nephews.
McCONNELL, Wilbur James, Jr, 67, died peacefully at his home in West Babylon, New York on Monday January 17, 2022, following many years of ongoing health issues. Jim was born in Columbia, South Carolina, raised in Burlington, New Jersey, and graduated from Burlington City High School in 1972. 
Mac was a good friend of mine (Russ Christie). We spent many an off-crew hour together playing pool at the Port Hole Tavern in Ladson, SC. The loser had to eat one of the mystery foods found pickled in a jar behind the bartender. I usually lost. The way I finally get to be even with Mac is to select the picture to the left. We were approaching the Panama Canal in Feb of 1972. He had the LOS watch and when it was over, he hit the rack. Well we got to the canal a few hours later and he was still in the rack so I made him get up and go topside to get some barbeque. As you can see, he was thrilled about being woken up. I called him the human weathervane because of the way his hair would blow around. He kept it as long as he could get away with.
Just so Dougall wont be too pissed if we ever should meet again in some after-life bar, the second picture is Mac getting his 2nd Class crow from Capt Bump in 1972 in Bremerton, WA during the Key's first overhaul. I last saw Mac in 1974. He was waiting for his discharge date as I was heading back for another patrol. We enjoyed each others company - A guy from a small town in Texas and a guy from the city of Boston... Go figure.
Dan McRae died in a Dallas hospital Sunday night- He served on the Key during the 1970's. I believe Dan served in 1976 - 1978-79 - Blue Crew. I will find out soon. I'm working on getting an obituary. There are pictures of him posted in (1970's). The one with your caption " Don't ask - Don't tell! from the 1970 album. His ashes will be brought back to his home in Leesville Louisiana. Services will be at Hixson Funeral Home on Saturday 17 January @ 2pm in Leesville. As soon as they publish an obit I will get it to you.
Richard Mark Medders, age 60, passed away Tuesday, August 4th 2015 in Spokane, Washington. Mr. Medders was born November 09, 1954 at Kennestone Hospital, in Marietta, Georgia to the late Ernest Millard Medders (1920-1979) and Mildred Louise Couch-Holtzclaw-Medders (1922-2002). Mr. Medders was preceded in death by his parents and one younger brother Jeffery Couch Medders (1956-1991), and a half-brother James Truman Holtzlcaw (1941- 2010).
Received word from Ron Shouse of the Passing of PJ Melher. PJ served as the LPO of launcher division in the late 1960s. He was a first class missile tech on the blue crew. Paul passed away at the Yale Hospital in New Haven, CT on January 19, 2019 after a long battle with cancer.
Dennis R. Mijanovich Ph.D., 71, formerly of Hagerstown, died Sunday, Jan. 10, 2021, at his home in Shelton, Wash., after an illness related to heart disease and diabetes.
Danny Lee Miller, 73, of Gowanda, N.Y., passed peacefully into the arms of our Lord, surrounded by his family, on July 15, 2021.
MILLER, David Andrew, 68 of Swanton, Ohio died on Tuesday, July 11,2023. He was born in Syracuse, New York on June 5, 1955. After graduating from high school in Baldswinville, New York, Dave joined theUS Navy and served for 25 years. He was deployed to the nuclear-powered
John Wesley "Wes" Minnick, Jr., 65, passed away unexpectedly at Bristol Regional Medical Center on July 27, 2019. He was born on January 9, 1954 to John and Mary Wyatt Minnick in Richlands, Virginia. Wes graduated from Iaeger High School, Iaeger, West Virginia in 1971 and attended West Virginia University, pursuing a degree in engineering before joining the United States Navy in 1972.
Louis Angelo Mongelluzzo departed this life swiftly as he lived it on his own terms. Lou will always be remembered for his passion for life, generosity, and love of his family.
Received notice from Frank Thornal of the passing of shipmate Jack Morrow. Here is Frank's e-mail: "It is with a heavy heart to have to report the passing of an American Hero, RMC(SS) Jack Morrow. Jack went on eternal patrol this morning, 7-29-2017 I served on the Madison (Blue) and the F.S. Key (Blue) With Jack. I was RM2 on the Madison and Jack came aboard one patrol later, also RM2. I left For shore duty and one patrol later Jack went to shore duty. Both of us made E-6 While on the Madison. He went to the Key and Made Chief. One Patrol later I came aboard Key and I made Chief. So you might say Jack was the reason I made Chief. Jack was more than a shipmate, he was my best friend.
Grant with his wife Marjorie at the 2008 Key Reunion
MUSTIN, James Ovid, LT, USN, Ret, 80, of Mulberry, died July 15, 2017 at IU Health Hospital in Lafayette, IN. Born December 25, 1936 in Connerville, IN to the late Marion "Pete" Mustin and Mary (Cooper) Mustin. Jim was a 1954 graduate of Frankfort High School.
USSVI notice:
Went on Eternal Patrol on: 11/11/2016
Walter M. Olechna, 82, of Granby, CT, beloved husband of 59 years to Patricia A. (Woinoski) Olechna, passed away unexpectedly on Thursday, August 29, 2024, with his loving family by his side. Walter was born in Springfield, MA, on July 7, 1942, to the late Walter and Mary (Szostak) Olechna.
Cold War Submariner Robert Lee Orndorf, 75 of Howard, passed away on Sunday, October 24, 2021 at his summer home in Manilla, Philippines. He was born in Lock Haven on March 26, 1946 a son of the late Edwin and Mary E. Young Orndorf.
Captain (USN) Thomas Leighton Parry, Jr.
J. Randall Pearce , CDR
Bill enlisted in the Navy 23 Oct 1969 in Salt Lake City, UT., and after 2 years in basic and nuclear power school he served on the Gold crew of the USS Francis Scott Key. He attained the rank of ETR3\SS and was the Sub Nuclear Propulsion Plant Operator - Reactor Control on the Key from 1971 - 1975. He earned the National Defense Service Medal; Good Conduct Award; Enlisted Submarine Dolphins; Fleet Ballistic Missile Submarine Patrol Insignia with 2 stars. According to a letter received from his CO P.M. Beard Jr., Bill's duties included serving as an Electronics Technician, publications petty officer, ship's qualification petty officer and his watchstanding duties were Reactor Operator & Shutdown Maneuvering Area Watch. In addition to his service on the Key he also served on the USS AJAX AR-6; NPS, Vallejo, California; NPTU, Idaho Fall, Idaho. His nick name was "Half-Life" and he always said that he earned this because of his role working with the radioactive systems of the ship.
Death reported by his brother. Gus died in 2006 of a stroke followed by a heart attack.
Received 11/21/07 from Thomas Ryan 70-71 A-Gang Gold -
No funeral services for Robert "Bob" Wayne Peterson, 79, of Hollister, will be held at this time. He will be buried at sea on a later date. Arrangements and cremation were under the direction of Cremations of the Ozarks.
Larry Richard Petska, age 67 of Hershey, passed away Monday June 4, 2018 at Bergan Mercy Medical Center in Omaha, NE, after a short battle with cancer.
I searched the web site www.legacy.com for any former members of the USS Francis Scott Key. Mr. Philbrick name appeared. As I read his obituary, I soon realized he was on a different F.S. Key. I did not know there was another ship in the navy ever named after Key. Well there was. It was a liberty ship, as they were called during the war. I've decided to add Mr Philbrick to our Eternal Patrol listing as he was an original member of the original F.S. Key.
CAPT James R. Poole, USN (Ret.), age 89, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on September 26, 2024, at his home in Alexandria, Va. under hospice care for Parkinson's. Jim was a natural leader, an outstanding naval officer, a gentleman, and a family man. He loved his naval career, Navy football, golf - and the love of his life, Virginia Ruth Gillen of Brooklyn, Mi. They were married 43 years. Jim was born on March 13, 1935, in Cleveland, Oh. to James Selby Poole and Gladys Evelyn Taylor. He was from a well-traveled United States Navy family when he entered The Ohio State University in 1952. Captain Poole received an appointment to the United States Naval Academy in Annapolis, Md. in 1953 and graduated with the Class of 1957. Following graduation, Jim completed duty as the 15th Company Officer indoctrinating the incoming members of the Class of 1961.
Gold crew 1978 - 1982 - Shown here in the laundry room on the Key
Torpedoman - 75 - 78 Died of cancer following unsuccessful surgery .in July 1979. Reported by his friend and shipmate Tim Brooks. Click here for a picture of Dennis shown standing on the left.
TMCS/SS Edward T Ray 3/3/45 - 3/4/15 passed away this morning at 0010 hours. He served on active duty from August 1963 to April 1987. He served aboard the Alexander Hamilton, Robert E Lee, George W Carver, Francis Scott Key, Seahorse as COB, and City of Corpus Christi, the picture is from is retirement ceremony aboard the City of Corpus Christi.
Daniel Wesley Redington Sr., 54, of Centralia, passed away Wednesday, November 1, 2023, at his home.
Dennis Patrick Redline, 75, of Ocala, FL, passed away on Jan. 15, 2025.
We were notified of Bob's passing by his son Kevin.
Bob led a full, complete, wonderful life and built a legacy to last generations. He will be greatly missed by his family and friends, but he left them all with joyful loving memories which will comfort them in the years ahead.
September 2012 - Received an e-mail informing us of Richards passing in 2001.
Jeff was a good man, a great friend and a great A-ganger. After Jeff left the Navy, he became a great husband to Janet and a great father to three daughters.
Restivo, Jeffrey Michael
Qualified in submarines on the USS Angler (SS-240) in 1961 and was a MSCM(SS) when he left the Navy.
Michael Jay Rinehart, age 72, passed away Thursday, January 28, 2021 at his home.
05/31/2013 - Just received word of the passing of a shipmate and friend, Steve Rosen. Steve's friend of 45+ years, Jesse Sims, sent me the notice along with these words that Steve wrote for the Key Memories book that was put together back in 2009.... Russ
Here is Steve's obituary....Rosen, Stephen Edward of Wayne, NJ, formerly of Old Lyme, CT and Sea Cliff, NY, died on May 27, 2013. Son of Bud and Elaine (Kusmin) Rosen; husband of Briana Rosen for 42 years; father of Caroline and her husband Todd LaFiura of Raleigh, NC, and Sarah and her husband Makis McDonald of Denver, CO; brother of Peter and his wife Michu of Hingham, MA, and Douglas and his wife Sherry of Jacksonville, FL; grandfather of Britt and Greer LaFiura; and uncle of Paul, Benjamin, and Annie Rosen and Owen, Tom and John Zurhellen.
Roderic 'Ryno' Roy Rynerson Sr., 55, died June 21, 2014 with his wife and son by his side in Naples, FL, due to complications of heart and lung failure.
I would like to inform you and the ‘Key’s shipmates of my father Richard D. Sales’ passing back in February 2018. While it has been some time since his passing, I was recently going through some of my grandparent’s things when I found my dad’s photo album from the Navy and thought to reach out to you.
COLUMBUS - Richard Manuel Santos passed away on Sunday, March 1, 2015 at Riverside Methodist Hospital. He was born in San Jose, California on Dec. 31, 1946, to Manuel and Evelyn Santos, the oldest of their seven children.
Plank Owner Weapons Div - Passed away on Jan.17, 1996--His daughter, Michele (Scanlon) Ippoliti, would love to hear from any crew members that remember her dad. Email MFI@peirce.com or phone 215-879-5461 as would his son, Steve: stevescanlon@gmail.com phone: 267-882-7763. Steve contacted me on 07/26/09 to ask that I add his name and contact info so that any of his dad's old shipmates could reach him. I asked Steve if his father talked much about his time on the key. Here is Steve's reply:
Received notice of Lamarr's passing from JOHN MARKIEWICZ CWO2 -USSVI
Donnell Alan Shehane, 61, of Idaho Falls, passed away January 11, 2021, at Sportsman's Park.
ROTTERDAM, NY- Diane Elizabeth Singleman (Pone), aged 76, passed away peacefully on Thursday August 15, 2024 surrounded by her devoted family. Born and raised in Schenectady, New York, she was the daughter of the late Anna and Frank Pone and her brother Frank Pone. Diane was a graduate of Mohonasen High School and St. Peter's Hospital School of Nursing. Throughout her nursing career, she served as an operating room nurse at both Ellis and Child's hospitals, as well as in several medical offices in the Capital region. She retired in 1993, following 11 years of dedicated service as a school nurse at Mohonasen High School. Her nurturing spirit and warm smile will be fondly remembered by countless students and her colleagues.
Received a copy of this obit from Tom Courtien who noticed it in the newspaper.
Sioux Falls - Albert Willard Small, 82, of Sioux Falls, SD, passed away on March 24, 2020 in Scottsdale, AZ from heart failure.
Barry Lewis Smith of Mossy Grove, Tennessee passed away at Methodist Medical Center on September 4th, 2022.
Captain Frank August Spangenberg III, USNR (Ret.), age 83, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, September 24, 2025, entering into the presence of his Lord.
Kermit was a Machinist Mate and Plank Owner reporting to the Key Blue in 1965. We were notified of Kermit's passing by his wife Pat.
Jesse Sims sent an e-mail informing us of Don's passing.
Passed away on 8/13/2012. Member of USSVI Base: USS Chicago
Bob Steffy was born on August 3, 1946, and lived his wonderful life until October 26, 2024, at the age of 78. He was born to the late Catherine and Robert Steffy in Detroit, Michigan, where he was raised and was the oldest of seven children. Detroit is also where he met his lifelong love, Janice Naturkas. They were married 58 wonderful years and had two sons, Robert and Steven.
Dennis C. Stopen of Deerfield Dr., Gowanda, NY passed away unexpectedly at home Sunday August 27, 2017. Dennis was 76 years old. Born in Niagara Falls NY August 24, 1941 the son of Theodore and Anna Patricia (Maley) Stopen . Dennis graduated from Wayland High then attended Indiana Tech before enlisting with the United States Navy .
Mr. David Herman Sturgis, 73, of Panama City, passed away Sunday, December 3, 2017 at his home.
Electrical Officer and DCA Blue Crew 1990-1992 -- Died unexpectedly in Mar. 2004 in Bangor, WA as a result of injuries he suffered while in a bicycle accident while in training for a triathlon. At the time of his death, he was the XO of USS Nevada (Blue). He was in his 27th year of Naval service.


Darold Dean Tate, Jr., age 69 of Bellevue, passed away Saturday, December 5, 2020 at Firelands Regional Medical Center in Sandusky. Darold was born June 15, 1951 in Kansas City, KS the son of Mary (Jacobson) Pettyjohn and the late Darold D. Tate, Sr.
I received a phone call this morning from Ken Taylor's wife Rosalie. She called to tell me that Kenneth Taylor had passed on June 11, 2011. I am proud to have known and served with Ken on the Key Blue Crew. We made six patrols together. He always had a smile and enjoyed joking around with everyone. When the chips were down, you know that you could count on Ken in every respect. On one occasion we had a fire in the Engine Room, lower level. Ken had the roving watch and was forward in Machinery Room 2. I was the reactor operator at the time. When the alarm was sounded, I heard a commotion and peered through the Maneuvering Room doorway and saw Chief Taylor yelling "hold that door!" as he dove head first through the water tight door into the Engine Room. He slid down the ladder to the lower level to help Kermit Sparks extinguish the fire. Afterward, I told Ken that I was impressed that he ran into the burning compartment. He said "On a submarine, you always run toward the problem". That was good advice and I never forgot it. We stood watch together a lot and I enjoyed working with him. He was a fine man and will be remembered always.
From the USSVI:
We were recently notified (Dec 2023) of his passing. The Navy Log had him listed as serving on the Key and he retired as a Commander. 
John Troia, age 86, of Fort Myers, Florida passed away on Tuesday, July 16, 2024. He was born in Brooklyn, New York, the fourth child of Rosario and Josephine Nania Troia.
John was one of the original founders of the Key Reunion Committee and helped organize the first Key Reunion in 2002..
Thomas W. Turner CAPT USN (Ret)
John Linville notified us of Charlie's passing.. Here are John's comments: I remember going to the Key offices about the time the Blue Crew went on Patrol 1. I had just finished sub school. Charlie came to the office with all the kids, guess he was picking up something as Gold Crew was officially in off-crew status. Those 8 kids all lined up by height against the file cabinets, the best behaved group of kids I had ever seen. Made a lasting impression on me. And they turned out to be great kids. His daughter Ann (surgical nurse in Boston), who called my daughter about his passing, has a son Danny who became good friends with Charlie's grandson David. Small world. As I said I met Charlie again at Seabrook Station in the 80s but the actual meeting was at Sanel Auto Parts in Exeter, NH. I was on a stool waiting to get a part and this guy comes in and sits down on the adjacent stool. I looked at him, did a double take and asked if he had sailed on the 657G and if his name was Charlie Vincent. Funny how things happen. Fair winds and following seas to a grand sailor and a great human being.
Douglas Volgenau, RADM, USN, Ret., 76, succumbed on March 25, 2014 as a result of complications associated with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) Disease. Admiral Volgenau was raised in Clarence, New York, a small town outside of Buffalo. He attended a one room school through the sixth grade, Amherst Central High School and graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy with the class of 1959.
Mr. Martin Dale Weaver, 57, of the Cagle Community passed away at his home Monday August 10, 2015. He was retired from the US Navy after 30 years service. He was born in Tullahoma, Tennessee on November 4, 1957. He was preceded in death by his father, William Bedford Weaver and his wife, Shirley Darlene Estes Weaver.
Royal Shawn Weaver passed away on April 13, 2025. Royal Shawn Weaver was born to Darwin and Vera Weaver in Des Moines, Iowa.
ETCS --Gold Crew 1975-1978 ( possibly in the late 60's also). Passed away March 8, 2000 in Bremerton, WA of cancer.
Gregg Cornelius Westberry, 56, of Kingsland, GA passed away at Shands Hospital in Gainesville, FL on November 10, 2024, surrounded by family and friends.
Gary Edward Whitesell passed suddenly, on August 28, 2019 of Atco, NJ. Age 71 years. Beloved husband of the late Carol J. Whitesell (nee DiCerbo). Devoted father of Christopher Whitesell (Jennifer Snyder). Dear brother of Sandy Polino and her husband Joe and Sue Schuler and her husband Al. Also survived by many nieces, nephews and friends.
Cold War Submarine Veteran, Clayton (Clay) Pierce Wick
SK1 Plank Owner - Blue Crew - 1965 - 1970. His son Tom Wilber sent this e-mail on Jan 29, 2007.
SCPO Richard A. Wilson, USN Retired, 72, of Summerville, SC died Monday, April 13, 2020. Richard was born March 25, 1948 in Bicknell, Indiana to Robert and Rosemary Wilson. He graduated from Maryville High School in 1966 and enlisted in the US Navy in April of 1967. He met his soul mate Murlah Ingram and married her on July 5, 1969.
COB Blue crew, 1970 - 1974. Passed away on September 23, 2013 in Port Townsend, WA according to an e-mail sent by his wife Bev.
Richard Timothy Wise (1961-2017) Served on the Key from 1984 - 1987, IC Division on the Blue Crew.
Richard A. Yoder, Sr.
Newport News, Va. - George "Zak" Zakarian, 72, of Newport News, and formerly of Norwich, CT died peacefully in his home on Sunday, Aug. 5, 2018, under the loving care of his family.
Glenn was a Machinist Mate and a Plank Owner on the Key serving from 1965 to 1969 on the Gold Crew.