CANDOER Retirement Group

A World-Wide Organization

Communicators AND Others Enjoying Retirement

CANDOER Blog
October 21, 2022 - Present
REMINDER

All member's addresses and bio have been removed from the Web site. A member list is available under the heading of "MEMBERSHIP LIST" on the Main Menu. I am still keeping the bio information up-to-date off-line. If you have a change to your information, please send it to be at my e-mail address of CANDOERCat@GMail.com. If you are a member and wish to get information on another member, send me an email message and I will furnish it! I moved the bio's off-line because I was unable to fix the password program I was using, and it allowed ANYONE to see all your information. Everyone who has furnished an email address you can find their email address on the Main Menu under E-Mail Adds (A thru L) and E-Mail Adds (M thru Z).

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Friday, April 28, 2023

Death of Willie "Wil" Roy Saylor

I received word from Robert Olson that Wil passed away back in April of 2022.

Willie Roy Saylor, age 79 of Greenback, passed away Monday, April 18, 2022 at Blount Memorial Hospital.

He was a Vietnam Veteran serving in the United States Army. He retired from the State Department and was a State Trooper in Kansas. Wil was also a DEA agent.

He was preceded in death by: parents, Wilford & Elizabeth Saylor; wife, Yupin Saylor.

Survivors include: son & daughter-in-law, Chatree & Khamta Saylor; daughters & sons-in-law, Malida & James Rogers and Kanidta and Sang Man; grandchildren, Alex and Alyssa Saylor; Anthony, Cecillia, Anjelica Rogers, Jessica and Jenina Sang; brother, Robert Saylor.

Family received friends from 11:00 until 12:00 PM, Saturday, April 23, 2022 at Smith Trinity Chapel. Funeral services were at 12:00 PM with Rev. Charles Ballard officiating. Family and friends assembled for interment at 1:00 PM, Saturday, April 23, 2022 at Grandview Cemetery.

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Wednesday, April 26, 2023

I received the following pictures from Phil Wood. Phil and Sara drove to Victorville, CA to visit with Art Crowfoot. After some 53 years, it was really good seeing Art again. He's doing well!

Victorville, CA Pictures

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Wednesday, April 26, 2023

Death of John Mansfield

John Mansfield

Obituary for John Gilbert Mansfield

What a Ride!

John G. Mansfield, Jr. was born April 1st, 1942 in Tacoma, Washington to John G. Mansfield, Sr. and Florence Marie (Johnson) Mansfield, and passed away April 11, 2023 in Tacoma, WA.

John attended McKinley Elementary, Stewart Jr. High, Lincoln and Stadium High Schools. In 1958 he became a member of the Demonos Car Club and U.S. Submarine Reserves. John graduated at Stadium H.S. and entered the U.S. Navy in 1960, serving Guam, in the communications center. He was a disc jockey on Armed Forces Radio and played on the NAVCOMMSTA Bluedevils championship football team as a tackle and guard. He attended submarine school and was assigned to USS Menhaden (SS377), his brother Don’s ‘boat.’ John was honorably discharged in 1965 as a Radioman 2nd class, qualified in submarines. He married Kathleen J. Paladie in 1966 and they headed to Washington D.C. where he worked for the Central Intelligence Agency as a Communications Officer. On October 28, 1966 his daughter, Jadene Marie was born in Warrenton, Virginia. They served two tours overseas and returned home while John attended college. He earned a BA in Communications from the University of Puget Sound in 1975.

The family moved back to Washington, D.C. and had tours in the Middle East and Europe. John worked in an agency TV studio, narrating, writing scripts and was the ‘audio specialist.’ Returning to the states in 1986, John became an instructor at agency’s communications school where he created, wrote and taught middle management courses. He also traveled extensively teaching personal computer operations to non-communications personnel at U.S. embassies. He was promoted to Chief of Operations for all agency communications facilities east of the Mississippi in 1990. John retired in 1992 as a GS-14 having completed 26 years of service.

Moving back home to Tacoma in 1993, John started a company called The Media Center, where he did photography and video productions for attorneys. At the same time he researched and authored a non-fiction military history book titled “Cruisers for Breakfast” about two WWII submarines that started the largest naval battle in history, at Leyte Gulf. John & Kathi Divorced in 2000 and he married Lori D. Horton from Ada, Oklahoma in 2002. They purchased and moved to his brother Don’s cabin in Ashford, Washington on Mount Rainier.

John became a Realtor in 2002 with ERA, Liberty Northwest and Better Properties companies until 2012. John & Lori divorced in 2013 and he moved to Puyallup.

John was an avid photographer, videographer & writer. He enjoyed sports like bowling, golf, tennis, softball, ping pong, darts and pool. He also enjoyed salmon fishing and clam digging.

John held many official positions throughout his life. He was secretary and newsletter editor for the Demonos & Bull Run Streetrod Car Clubs, Trustee with the Puyallup Elks Lodge, president of the Ashford Lions Club, Secretary and founder of the Cascade Regional Group of the Early Ford V8 Club, Life Member of Veterans of Foreign Wars, Past Commander of Eric G. Sandstrom VFW Post 969, and VFW District 3 Commander. He was an Associate member of U.S. Submarine Veterans of WWII, a life member of U.S. Submarine Veterans, Inc. and founder of South Sound Base in Tacoma, Western District 4 Commander, and Western Region Director. He served on USSVI’s National Board of Directors until 2014.

John is survived by his daughter, Jadene M. Kearney/Jay, grandchildren Maria Kearney, Johnny/Rebeca Perez Kearney, Michael/Casey Kearney, great grandsons, Noah Kearney, Everett Kearney, many nieces, nephews, cousins and Uncle, Donald L. Mansfield of Hemet, CA and Patricia.

He traveled the world on 34 different airlines to 32 countries and 165 cities in his career and he liked to say "What a Ride."

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Friday, April 14, 2023

Death of John Mansfield

I received the following from Dick Kalla:

I just heard from John Mansfield's ex-wife, Kathi Paladie, that John passed away suddenly and unexpectedly. Apparently, they lived close to each other and routinely texted. When he didn't respond to her text she went to check on him and found him dead. I have no further details.

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Wednesday, April 12, 2023

I received the following from Stu Branch. It is being repeated here for your action:

Dear DACOR Member,

As you may know, the modern, unified U.S. Foreign Service was established in 1925. Recently, U.S. Senators Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.) and Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska), co-founders of the bipartisan Senate Foreign Service Caucus, introduced the United States Foreign Service Commemorative Coin Act, bipartisan legislation to create a commemorative coin celebrating 100 years of the U.S. Foreign Service.

The Association for Diplomatic Studies and Training (ADST) is leading the effort to get co-sponsors for the bill and to lobby for its passage. DACOR, the American Academy of Diplomacy (AAD) and the American Foreign Service Association (AFSA) are supporting this effort. Under the Senators’ bill, the U.S. Mint would produce the commemorative coin at no cost to us and release and market the coin in 2025. Any proceeds of the sale of coins will be shared by ADST, DACOR, and AAD. The proceeds could be considerable as the commemorative coins issued by the mint are highly prized by coin collectors. Any revenue DACOR receives from the coins will help us continue our mission to bring foreign affairs professionals together in support of diplomacy, the Foreign Service, and public understanding of diplomacy.

We need your help right now in getting additional Senators to co-sponsor the bill (S. 789). Attached are the tools you need to assist with this push:

List of Senators and their contact information

UNITED STATES SENATE - Washington, D.C. 20510

SUITE AND TELEPHONE LIST March 22, 2023

SR—Russell Building
SD—Dirksen Building
SH—Hart Building

All telephone numbers are preceded by 22:

Vice President HARRIS, Kamala D. 4-2424
BALDWIN, Tammy (D-WI) SH-141 4-5653
BARRASSO, John (R-WY) SD-307 4-6441
BENNET, Michael F. (D-CO) SR-261 4-5852
BLACKBURN, Marsha (R-TN) SD-357 4-3344
BLUMENTHAL, Richard (D-CT) SH-706 4-2823
BOOKER, Cory A. (D-NJ) SH-717 4-3224
BOOZMAN, John (R-AR) SD-555 4-4843
BRAUN, Mike (R-IN) SR-404 4-4814
BRITT, Katie (R-AL) SD-B40A 4-5744
BROWN, Sherrod (D-OH) SH-503 4-2315
BUDD, Ted (R-NC) SR-B85 4-3154
CANTWELL, Maria (D-WA) SH-511 4-3441
CAPITO, Shelley Moore (R-WV) SR-172 4-6472
CARDIN, Benjamin L. (D-MD) SH-509 4-4524
CARPER, Thomas R. (D-DE) SH-513 4-2441
CASEY, Jr., Robert P. (D-PA) SR-393 4-6324
CASSIDY, Bill (R-LA) SD-455 4-5824
COLLINS, Susan M. (R-ME) SD-413 4-2523
COONS, Christopher A. (D-DE) SR-218 4-5042
CORNYN, John (R-TX) SH-517 4-2934
CORTEZ MASTO, Catherine (D-NV) SH-520 4-3542
COTTON, Tom (R-AR) SR-326 4-2353
CRAMER, Kevin (R-ND) SH-313 4-2043
CRAPO, Mike (R-ID) SD-239 4-6142
CRUZ, Ted (R-TX) SR-167 4-5922
DAINES, Steve (R-MT) SH-320 4-2651
DUCKWORTH, Tammy (D-IL) SH-524 4-2854
DURBIN, Richard J. (D-IL) SH-711 4-2152
ERNST, Joni (R-IA) SR-260 4-3254
FEINSTEIN, Dianne (D-CA) SH-331 4-3841
FETTERMAN, John (D-PA) SD-B40B 4-4254
FISCHER, Deb (R-NE) SR-454 4-6551
GILLIBRAND, Kirsten E. (D-NY) SR-478 4-4451
GRAHAM, Lindsey (R-SC) SR-211 4-5972
GRASSLEY, Chuck (R-IA) SH-135 4-3744
HAGERTY, Bill (R-TN) SR-251 4-4944
HASSAN, Maggie (D-NH) SH-324 4-3324
HAWLEY, Josh (R-MO) SR-115 4-6154
HEINRICH, Martin (D-NM) SH-303 4-5521
HICKENLOOPER, John W. (D-CO) SR-374 4-5941
HIRONO, Mazie K. (D-HI) SH-109 4-6361
HOEVEN, John (R-ND) SR-338 4-2551
HYDE-SMITH, Cindy (R-MS) SH-702 4-5054
JOHNSON, Ron (R-WI) SH-328 4-5323
KAINE, Tim (D-VA) SR-231 4-4024
KELLY, Mark (D-AZ) SH-516 4-2235
KENNEDY, John (R-LA) SR-437 4-4623
KING, Jr., Angus S. (I-ME) SH-133 4-5344
KLOBUCHAR, Amy (D-MN) SD-425 4-3244
LANKFORD, James (R-OK) SH-316 4-5754
LEE, Mike (R-UT) SR-361A 4-5444
LUJAN, Ben Ray (D-NM) SR-498 4-6621
LUMMIS, Cynthia M. (R-WY) SR-124 4-3424
MANCHIN III, Joe (D-WV) SH-306 4-3954
MARKEY, Edward J. (D-MA) SD-255 4-2742
MARSHALL, Roger (R-KS) SR-479A 4-4774
McCONNELL, Mitch (R-KY) SR-317 4-2541
MENENDEZ, Robert (D-NJ) SH-528 4-4744
MERKLEY, Jeff (D-OR) SH-531 4-3753
MORAN, Jerry (R-KS) SD-521 4-6521
MULLIN, Markwayne (R-OK) SH-330 4-4721
MURKOWSKI, Lisa (R-AK) SH-522 4-6665
MURPHY, Christopher (D-CT) SH-136 4-4041
MURRAY, Patty (D-WA) SR-154 4-2621
OSSOFF, Jon (D-GA) SR-455 4-3521
PADILLA, Alex (D-CA) SH-112 4-3553
PAUL, Rand (R-KY) SR-295 4-4343
PETERS, Gary C. (D-MI) SH-724 4-6221
REED, Jack (D-RI) SH-728 4-4642
RICKETTS, Pete (R-NE) SR-139 4-4224
RISCH, James E. (R-ID) SR-483 4-2752
ROMNEY, Mitt (R-UT) SR-354 4-5251
ROSEN, Jacky (D-NV) SH-713 4-6244
ROUNDS, Mike (R-SD) SH-716 4-5842
RUBIO, Marco (R-FL) SR-284 4-3041
SANDERS, Bernard (I-VT) SD-332 4-5141
SCHATZ, Brian (D-HI) SH-722 4-3934
SCHMITT, Eric (R-MO) SR-B11 4-5721
SCHUMER, Charles E. (D-NY) SH-322 4-6542
SCOTT, Rick (R-FL) SH-502 4-5274
SCOTT, Tim (R-SC) SH-104 4-6121
SHAHEEN, Jeanne (D-NH) SH-506 4-2841
SINEMA, Kyrsten (I-AZ) SH-317 4-4521
SMITH, Tina (D-MN) SH-720 4-5641
STABENOW, Debbie (D-MI) SH-731 4-4822
SULLIVAN, Dan (R-AK) SH-302 4-3004
TESTER, Jon (D-MT) SH-311 4-2644
THUNE, John (R-SD) SD-511 4-2321
TILLIS, Thom (R-NC) SD-113 4-6342
TUBERVILLE, Tommy (R-AL) SR-142 4-4124
VAN HOLLEN, Chris (D-MD) SH-110 4-4654
VANCE, J.D. (R-OH) SD-B40C 4-3353
WARNER, Mark R. (D-VA) SH-703 4-2023
WARNOCK, Raphael G. (D-GA) SR-388 4-3643
WARREN, Elizabeth (D-MA) SH-309 4-4543
WELCH, Peter (D-VT) SD-G12 4-4242
WHITEHOUSE, Sheldon (D-RI) SH-530 4-2921
WICKER, Roger F. (R-MS) SR-425 4-6253
WYDEN, Ron (D-OR) SD-221 4-5244
YOUNG, Todd (R-IN) SD-185 4-5623

Template for writing a letter to your Senator:

Dear {Elected Officials Name]

As your constituent, I am writing to strongly urge you to co-sponsor, Senate Bill S.789, the United States Foreign Service Commemorative Coin Act. This bipartisan legislation calls on the Secretary of the Treasury to mint a coin to commemorate the upcoming 100th anniversary of the United States Foreign Service. In honoring this important centennial, the coin will recognize a century of Foreign Service contributions to American diplomacy, from passage of the 1924 Rogers Act and the first entry classes of the Foreign Service in 1925 to today, commemorate the ultimate sacrifice made by 320 of its members who gave their lives while serving on the front lines abroad, and highlight the importance of diplomacy to the national interest. 

  There is no better moment than the upcoming centennial to celebrate Congress’s vision in passing the Rogers Act of 1924 establishing the U.S. Foreign Service. For 100 years members of the Service and their families have protected and advanced U.S. national security, economic and commercial interests, and American values with dedication, sacrifice, courage, and honor.  Cosponsoring S.789 will be deeply meaningful to tens of thousands of Americans in the foreign affairs and diplomatic community, who welcome this legislation as recognition of their long dedicated service overseas for the American people, often in hazardous and dangerous duty locations. The sale of the coins will support the modernization of the Association for Diplomatic Studies and Training’s seminal Foreign Affairs Oral History program. This program, established in 1986 captures the experiences of America’s diplomats in their own voice and is the largest publicly accessible collection of diplomatic oral histories, praised as a national treasure for passing on the lessons of America’s diplomacy to current and future generations of U.S. diplomats and scholars alike by the likes of Secretary of State George Shultz and the Library of Congress.

Respectfully,

[Your Signature]

The Press Release announcing the bill

MARCH 14, 2023

VAN HOLLEN, SULLIVAN MAKE BIPARTISAN PUSH TO CREATE COMMEMORATIVE COIN FOR 100TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE U.S. FOREIGN SERVICE>

Today, U.S. Senators Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.) and Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska), co- founders of the bipartisan Senate Foreign Service Caucus, introduced the United States Foreign Service Commemorative Coin Act, bipartisan legislation to create a commemorative coin celebrating 100 years of the U.S. Foreign Service. Under the Senators’ bill, the U.S. Mint would release a commemorative coin in 2025 marking 100 years since the passage and enactment of the legislation that created the modern-day Foreign Service. The proceeds from the coin sales will benefit the Association for Diplomatic Study and Training, a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving the history and sharing the experiences of generations of U.S. Foreign Service members.

“The members of our Foreign Service work across the globe to promote the United States’ interests and our democratic values while looking out for American citizens abroad. Their dedication and patriotism are vital to advancing America’s leadership on the world stage. This coin will mark the vital work and countless sacrifices of our Foreign Service members and their families over the last 100 years,” said Senator Van Hollen.



“The men and women of the U.S. Foreign Service promote America’s interests, strengthen our national security, and assist U.S. citizens abroad, often without the recognition they deserve,” said Senator Sullivan. “These courageous public servants are truly on the front lines of American interests and values in an increasingly dangerous world. The issuance of these commemorative coins will not only memorialize their service and sacrifice, but go toward the preservation of the Foreign Service’s history for future generations of American patriots.”

The Foreign Service as it is organized today was established through the Rogers Act of 1924, which in that year consolidated and reorganized the existing Diplomatic and Consular Services into a single entity, with the first class of the combined Foreign Service graduating in 1925. Since then, the Foreign Service has been the primary cadre of professionals charged with conducting United States diplomacy. Operating under the Department of State, today the Foreign Service consists of over 15,000 career professionals carrying out American foreign policy and aiding U.S. citizens in more than 250 posts abroad.

The U.S. Mint’s commemorative coin program honors American people, places, events, and institutions. Congress may authorize no more than two commemorative coins per year. Although they are legal tender, they are not minted for general circulation; they are produced in limited quantity available only for a limited time. In addition to their sentimental value, all of these coins help raise money for important causes. Part of the price paid by a coin’s purchaser is a surcharge that goes to non- profit organizations for community benefit.

This legislation is supported by the Association for Diplomatic Studies & Training (ADST), American Foreign Service Association (AFSA), American Academy of Diplomacy, Associates of the American Foreign Service Worldwide, Association of Black American Ambassadors, DACOR, Diplomacy Center Foundation, Public Diplomacy Council of America, Senior Seminar Alumni Association, and USAID Alumni Association.

“A Foreign Service commemorative coin will carry deep significance for tens of thousands in the Foreign Service and in the diplomatic community who look to this bill not just as a celebration of the upcoming 100th anniversary of the Foreign Service but as meaningful recognition of their contributions to American diplomacy. Revenue from the sale of the coins will support the continued growth, maintenance, and urgently needed modernization of ADST’s collection of thousands of American diplomatic histories, the largest in the world, accessible to the public on its website and that of the Library of Congress,” said ADST Board Chair Ambassador Anne Patterson.

“The Association for Diplomatic Studies and Training (ADST) expresses our deepest appreciation for Congressional support for the United States Foreign Service Commemorative Coin Act. This legislation is a tribute to Congress’ vision in passing the Rogers Act in 1924, which established a career, professional, non-partisan United States Foreign Service,” said ADST President Susan Johnson.

“The United States Foreign Service Commemorative Coin Act supports preservation of America's diplomatic history and the many individual diplomats who have contributed to that history over time. The American Academy of Diplomacy welcomes the bill and hopes for its speedy passage on a bipartisan basis,” said American Academy of Diplomacy President Ronald Neumann.

“DACOR, an organization of Foreign Affairs Professionals, strongly supports the United States Foreign Service Commemorative Coin Act. DACOR members have served the nation around the world in diplomatic and other capacities and welcome this well-deserved recognition of the 100th anniversary of the landmark Rogers Act of 1924 which unified the U.S. diplomatic corps,” said DACOR Executive Director John Bradshaw, a former Foreign Service Officer. “Revenue from the sale of the commemorative coins will help DACOR continue its mission to bring foreign affairs professionals together in support of diplomacy, the Foreign Service, and public understanding of diplomacy,” said DACOR Executive Director John Bradshaw.

In 2017, Senators Van Hollen and Sullivan formed the Foreign Service Caucus to provide a bipartisan platform for addressing the challenges facing those who serve in the U.S. Foreign Service around the world, and to develop policy solutions to support the U.S. diplomatic mission abroad. As part of their leadership of this Caucus, in the previous Congress the Senators passed their Foreign Service Families Act which became law through the Fiscal Year 2022 National Defense Authorization Act. The Senators’ legislation ensures that the Foreign Service is able to attract and retain a world-class diplomatic corps by providing expanded career options and services to eligible family members – affording them the same services.

UNQUOTE

Our non-resident members who live in states distant from DC can be especially helpful. Even one letter or call from a constituent to a Senator’s office on an issue like this can have outsized impact. The many DACOR members who live in Virginia and Maryland can lobby their respective Senators (except Senator Van Hollen, who instead can be thanked for his leadership, and Senator Tim Kaine who is now a co-sponsor). Those in DC --- who have no Senators – can contact Senators in the region, although non-constituent contacts will not have as much impact.

We are focusing on the Senate for now, but a House version of the bill is expected to be forthcoming soon.

Please let me know if you have any questions about this initiative. If you do reach out to a Senator, please let me know that you did so and share any response you receive.

Thank you for your willingness to help DACOR in this effort. The funds we may receive from this project will be important to DACOR in keeping our financial situation strong.

Sincerely,

John Bradshaw
Executive Director

DACOR, An Organization of Foreign Affairs Professionals
DACOR Bacon House Foundation
1801 F St, NW
Washington, DC 20006
202.682.0500 x14

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Thursday, March 30, 2023

Death of John Maysa

John Maysa

I received word from Richard Hoffer that John had passed away back in September of 2021.

John Maysa, 83, passed away unexpectedly on Monday, September 20, 2021 at his home.

He was the loving husband of Nilsa (Coll) Maysa for 56 years. Born February 2, 1938 in New Britain; the son of the late Frank and Ann (Gay) Maysa. John attended Sacred Heart School in New Britain and graduated from New Britain High School, Class of 1956. After high school graduation, he proudly joined the U.S. Air Force. Upon completion of basic training, he was assigned to the Yakota Air Base in Japan. While at the air base, he started his long road to a college degree. He completed his time in the Air Force on March 16, 1960. John returned home to New Britain and went to work at Emhurt and continue his college education at the University of Hartford from 1960 – 1962. On February 23, 1962, he joined the Department of State – Foreign Service. He was assigned to various positions worldwide. From 1962 – 1964 he was stationed in Rome, Italy, from 1964 – 1966 in Mogadishu, Somali, from 1966 – 1968 in Oslo, Norway, and from 1968 – 1971 in Amman, Jordan. While in Jordan, he received an award for valor. John was then stationed from 1971 – 1974 in Hamburg, Germany and from 1976 – 1978 in Moscow, Russia. When in the U.S.S.R., the Moscow fire took place in his office during its reconstruction. He was then stationed from 1978 – 1983 to the Department of State in Washington D.C. While in Washington D.C., he again pursued his college degree. He attended the University of Maryland College Park and in 1983, he graduated Cum Laude and became a member of the Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi. John then was stationed from 1983 – 1985 in Beijing, China. The U.S. had just established relations with China and he and his wife opened a new embassy there. He was then stationed from 1983 – 1988 in Manila, Philippines. In 1988, John retired from the Foreign Service after having serviced with the Department of State for 30 years. He received various commendations and awards during his many years with the State Department.

In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by a brother, Peter Maysa.

Friends called on Monday, September 27, 2021 at Montano-Shea Funeral Home, 5 Steele Road, New Hartford. A Mass of Christian burial was held on Tuesday, September 28, 2021 at Sacred Heart Church, New Britain at 10 AM. Burial followed at Sacred Heart Cemetery, New Britain with Military Honors.

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Tuesday, March 21, 2023

Death of Geraldine "Jerry" Ward

Jerry Ward

I received word from Larry that his wife passed away:

Geraldine "Jerry" Ward, 87, died on Tuesday, March 21, 2023 at 9:34 a.m. from complications of Covid. She was born in Tulsa, OK to John G. Mulrenin and Helen M. (Watson) Mulrenin. Her parents and a brother John Mulrenin are deceased.

She is survived by her husband of 56 years Larry, a sister Francine Gruette of Cushing, OK, her two sons John Ward of Front Royal, VA and Michael Ward, daughter in law Michelle, grandson Evan all of Clifton, VA and granddaughter Macy Ward of Washington, D.C.

Jerry served in the U.S. Air Force as a flight attendant in the Military Air Transport Service for three years. She attended Tulsa Business College after which she worked for Hurst Publishing Company. Jerry joined the U.S. State Department’s Foreign Service in 1962 and served in Beirut, Lebanon, Paris France and Bridgetown, Barbados as a Consular Officer where she met and married her husband Larry. After the Barbados assignment she took a leave of absence from the Foreign Service and accompanied her husband and two sons on assignments to Lahore, Pakistan, Brussels, Belgium, Nairobi, Kenya, and Bonn Germany. She became an active Consular Officer again in 1978 and received assignments to London, England and Manila, Philippines. Jerry was assigned back to the Department of State in 1984 where she worked as a Refugee and Migration Affairs Officer. She retired in 1991 and was then employed as a contract employee in the Refugee and Migration Services Office at the State Department for two years. Jerry retired for the last time in January 1994. She and her husband moved to Albuquerque, NM in 1998.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date.

Anyone wishing to send condolences to "Larry" and family the following is furnished:

Larry A.Ward
4501 Noche Clara Avenue, NW
Albuquerque, NM 87114-5599
Tel: (505) 792-0913
nmlarryward@comcast.net

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Monday, March 13, 2023

Mick Douglass furnished a new snail-mail address. Thanks Mick for helping me keep my records up-to-date!

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Thursday, March 09, 2023

Death of Robert A. Sandberg

I received word from Mike McCaffrey that Bob had passed away on January 27 while wintering in Florida. Anyone wishing to send condolences to Sally the following is furnished:

Sally Sandberg
Savanna Club
8125 9th Hole Drive
Port St. Lucie, Florida 34952
Tel: (772) 621-7074
bobsan32@yahoo.com

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Saturday, March 04, 2023

We have a new member, Joseph "OJ" Ortiz! Welcome aboard!

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Friday, February 24, 2023

Death of Richard John Rentz

Dick Rentz

I received word from Bill Mills that Richard died on February 19, 2023.

Richard John 'Dick' Rentz, of Ormond Beach, loving husband and father, passed away peacefully on Sunday, February 19, 2023 at the age of 91. Richard was born February 7, 1932 in Royal Oak, Michigan to John Rentz and Anna Rozanka and graduated from St. Mary's High School in 1950. He enlisted in the United States Navy where he served from 1953 to 1956 in the Asian theater as a Radio Operator onboard the U.S.S. Ernest G. Small, earning the National Defense Service Medal and the China Service Medal.

After his honorable discharge, Richard. embarked upon a career with the Central Intelligence Agency as a Communications Officer. His work led him to various postings around the world, to include Cyprus, Germany, Taiwan, Turkey, Philippines, India, and Australia. He finished out his career in Virginia and retired in 1991 after 34 years of faithful service, whereupon he was recognized with the CIA Honorable Service award.

Richard was a devout Catholic and a Fourth-Degree member of the Knights of Columbus. He enjoyed amateur (ham) radio and gardening and always shared his infectious sense of humor. Richard, affectionately known as "Dickie" by his family and friends, is survived by his wife of 63 years, Theresa Ann, his four children, Michael (Anita) Rentz, Anne Marie (Tony) Dowdy, Richard (Elena) Rentz, and Robert (Stephanie) Rentz, and six grandchildren, Stephanie, Katherine, Caroline, Lucas, Richard, and Marina.

Viewing will be held on Tuesday, February 28 at 10:00 a.m. at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, 89 St. Mary’s Place, Bunnell, Florida, followed by a funeral Mass at 11:00 a.m. Interment will be at a later date at Cape Canaveral National Cemetery.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.craigflaglerpalms.com for the Rentz family.

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Friday, February 24, 2023

Death of Maria Theresia (Rose) Jacobsen

I received word from Larry Ward that Rose Jacobsen, wife of George Jacobson died on November 19,2022.

Rose was born in Bendorf, Germany to Paul Christ and Elizabeth Schmitt on April 28, 1926. She went to primary school in Bendorf. Rose married George R. Jacobsen in 1952 and traveled the world with him during his military and foreign service career through 1985. Rose worked as a telephone operator for Headquarters US Army Europe for six years. Upon their return to the United States, Maria and George resided in Burke, Va.

Maria is preceded in death by her husband George R. Jacobsen and her 13 brothers and sisters.

Maria is survived by her only son, Robert A. Jacobsen, her granddaughters Nicki Jacobsen and Dani Sellers, and her great grandson, Nathan Sellers.

Funeral services were held at Demaine Funeral Home on November 27, 2022 at 2PM with the Rev. Dr. James Estes officiating. Rose was buried in Arlington National Cemetery next to George on February 24, 2023.

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Thursday, February 16, 2023

We had a very light turnout for the February CANDOER Luncheon in our new location. Two regulars, Cliff Miller and me and two new attendees, Christine and John Rider, attended! Our server took a picture for us and Christine sent it to me to post! February 14, 2023 CANDOER Luncheon

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Thursday, February 16, 2023

I have settled on a new location for the Washington DC Area CANDOER luncheons. They will still be held on the second Tuesday of each month at the new location of the T.G.I. Friday's in Alexandria, VA. Most CANDOER members arrive around 11:30 a.m. There is plenty of parking available near the restaurant. We usually order our meal around noon. The lunch lasts from 1 to 2 hours. The estimated cost is $20-25 (for your lunch, including tip). If you order alcoholic beverages, you must order them separately and pay for them separately. All charges on the lunch check, plus a 20 percent tip, minus charges for alcohol, are divided by the number of attendees. We all pay the same amount.

Directions: The Fridays is located at 6640 Richmond Highway, Alexandria, VA It is on the corner of Beacon Hill Road and Richmond Highway (US 1).

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Monday, January 09, 2023

For several years now the monthly Washington DC Area CANDOER Luncheons have been held at a TGI Friday's in Springfield, VA. Sometime shortly after our November luncheon they had a fire in the kitchen and had to shut down. For our December luncheon we rerouted to the Silver Diner in Springfield, but we were not happy with the prices or quality of the food.

I talked to the TGIFriday's manager today and he said that for the near future they are not going to open until 4:00 p.m. each day. This means we need to find a new restaurant for our monthly luncheons.

One of the regular attendees suggested we try the following restaurant:

Delia's Pizzeria & Grille
6715-F Backlick Road
Springfield, VA 22150
Low-key spot whipping up pizzas, pastas, sandwiches & salads
(703) 451-0242

I looked on Google Earth Pro and it appears to have plenty of free parking.

If they do not meet our needs I will look for another place.

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Monday, December 19, 2022

Mike Sulak furnished a new snail-mail address for Kathy McQuigan. Thanks Mike for helping me keep my records up-to-date! Mike reported that Kathy is now living in the Cherry Hill Assisted Senior Living Facility.

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Monday, December 18, 2022

Death of Frank Meyers

At our December Luncheon Hal Hutson reported that Frank Meyers had passed on July 14, 2022!

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Tuesday, November 22, 2022

Death of Lionel "Babe" Martin

Babe Martin

Lionel R. “Babe” Martin, 84, passed from this life on November 17, 2022, to start a life with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. He was born August 26, 1938, in Edmundston, NB, Canada, the son of Patrick and Marth (Albert) Martin.

Babe moved from Madawaska to Brewer at the age of 14 with his family and enrolled as a freshman at John Bapst High School. After high school, he enlisted in the United States Air Force.

Upon his completion from the military, he returned to his hometown of Brewer and served a short time on the Brewer Police Force. Babe married his first love, Jane Montgomery, and took a job with the United States Government State Department, where he worked honorably for 30 years. He traveled as a courier to many places in the world.

Lionel volunteered his time to coach kids in many sports. He and his wife Patti spent a year at St. Michaels’s Mission in AZ. He was a master of all trades, from a plumbing job to teaching girls and boys many different sports. Lionel was well-loved and respected by all who knew him.

He loved sports of all kinds, his favorites being the Boston Red Sox and the New England Patriots. He loved discussing politics and being of a democratic persuasion. He didn’t back down on his standards.

In addition to his parents, Lionel was predeceased by his first wife, Jane Martin; son, Martin Kuhn; grandson, Matthew Daily; brothers, John Martin and Bob Martin.

Babe is survived by his wife, Janet (Patti) Doucet-Martin; son, Joe Martin and wife, Jen; daughters, Annette Daily and husband, John, and Kathy Martin; brothers, Lou Martin and wife, Vicki; sisters, Frances Harrill and husband, Jim, and Patti Martin; brother-in-law, Jack Montgomery; many great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews.

Babe inherited a large family from his wife Patti, starting with Lynn Nicke, Carol and husband, Bob, Joey and wife, Nikki, Rene and husband, Russ, Jonathan and Jason.

He is also has many grandchildren, Mathew, now gone; Maya, Samantha, Alex, Anthony, Nadine, Aaron, Bailey, Kaitlin, Lily, Ethan, and Hunter.

Babe will be sadly missed by his family, who truly loved him, and his many beautiful friends, both near and far. He truly believed in the teachings of the Catholic Church and in singing God's praises with the choir. Now that you are finally joined with your wife Jane again, may you rest in peace in the knowledge of a life well lived.

A Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated 11:00 a.m. Tuesday, November 29, 2022 at St. Paul the Apostle, St. John’s Catholic Church, 207 York St., Bangor. Those wishing to attend the Mass remotely may do so by visiting stpaulbangor.me/watch-mass-live. The family invites relatives and friends to share conversation and refreshments in the Parish Hall immediately following the Mass. The Rite of Committal will be in the Quantico National Cemetery, Virginia.

Those wishing to remember Lionel in a special way may make gifts in his memory to a charity of your choice.

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Friday, November 18, 2022

Death of Lionel "Babe" Martin

Babe Martin

It is sadness and deep regret that I report the passing of a dear friend, Lionel "Babe" Martin! I received the following from his daughter, Kathy, this morning:

It is with a heavy heart that we announce the passing of our Father/Grandfather Lionel(Babe) Martin. We could not have asked for a better Dad/Granddad. He was kind, compassionate and had a love for life. He was always there to get us through the tough times. He loved to talk and tell stories and always gave us a good laugh. We take comfort in knowing how much he was loved by everyone who knew him. As difficult as it is for us to lose him, we know he is at peace and reunited with Mom, his son Martin, and sadly his Grandson Matthew.

We love you Dad and will miss you but you will forever be a part of us.

RIP Dad,

Kathy, Joe, Annette and Alex

NOTE: For those wishing to send condolences to his family the following is furnished:

Mrs. Patti Martin
35 Frenchmen Lane, Unit 2
Orrington, ME 04474
babelrm@aol.com

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Monday, November 14, 2022

Status of Lionel "Babe" Martin

I received word from Kathy Martin, Babe's Daughter than Babe has had a stroke and is in the hospital. She has asked for our prayers!

For those wishing to send a get well card the following is furnished:

Lionel R. Martin (Patti)
35 Frenchmen Lane, Unit 2
Orrington, ME 04474
Cell: (207) 951-2191
babelrm@aol.com

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Wednesday, November 09, 2022

Death of John Adam Tyburski

John Tyburski

John Adam Tyburski, age 80, of Springfield, Virginia passed away on Wednesday, September 14, 2022. John was born February 26, 1942.

John passed after a long, brave, battle against Esophageal Cancer!

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.virginiacremate.com/locations/chantilly-cremation for the Tyburski family.

Thanks to Mike Sulak for furnishing the above information!

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Friday, November 04, 2022

Death of Jenny P. Potter

Jenny Potter

I received word from Mark Butchart that his former wife had passed away. He asked that I post her obituary.

It is with great sadness that we announce that our beloved sister, Jenny Paige Potter, graciously accepted her invitation to Heaven on October 20, 2022. She passed peacefully after a fierce battle with lung cancer. Jenny was born in Albany, Georgia on December 1, 1960, of the late James Edwin Potter, Jr. and Shirley Ann Larrett Potter. Jenny’s was a life well-lived with great courage and an adventurous spirit. At 61 years young, Jenny was taken from us far too soon, all the while grabbing pieces of our individual and collective hearts as she left us.

Jenny followed her father's footsteps into the Navy and was very proud of her military service. She later joined the State Department Foreign Service and traveled extensively with her then husband, Mark Butchart. Jenny obtained a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration and worked into the role of financial management officer. During her decades long career, Jenny worked in many foreign countries such as China, Germany, Swaziland, Nigeria, Algeria, Columbia and Panama; however, If asked her favorite duty station, she would not hesitate to say,” Tel Aviv, Israel”. Jenny was tremendously happy that she could bring our mother to visit Israel, experience that trip with her and fulfill her lifelong dream.

Jenny’s love language was acts of service and her acts were the glue that has kept our family tethered. She was the first one to help and the last one to leave, she gave selflessly of her time, physical strength and financial resources to those she loved. She was loving, gracious, forgiving and did not operate in malice aforethought. Jenny was our caretaker during illness, our biggest cheerleader and the best friend we ever had.

Jenny’s passing leaves us broken hearted. She is survived by five brothers, Joe (Deborah) Potter, William Potter, and John Potter, all of Sylvester, GA; Daniel (Stacy) Potter of Albany, GA and David Potter of Leesburg, GA; and three sisters, Laney Koulovatos of Charleston, SC; Lauria (Tony) Grift of Champaign, IL; and Mary Potter of Albany, GA. Jenny is also survived by many nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews – all who were greatly loved.

Jenny is preceded in death by her two brothers, James “Jimmy” Potter and Jeffrey Potter as well as her beloved niece, Lindey Thompson. Also mourning are many life-long friends, several of whom she reconnected with later in her life. These conversations were of great comfort to her as she battled her illness.

Memorial services will be held Saturday, November 12, 2022 at 2:00 pm Hall & Hall Funeral Home with Rev. Robin Chaplin officiating. The family will hold a celebration of life for Jenny at a later date to be announced.

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Wednesday, November 2, 2022

While on a trip to Honolulu visiting my granddaughter Annie, who attends Hawaii Pacific University, I received the following from Joe Chaddic. Recently he gave a 90 minute talk about his career at a local community college. Below is a link to the speech. I found it very interesting.

https://www.dropbox.com/s/pyryh0avq20itcz/Joe%20Chadddic.m4a?dl=0

Just below the sign-in box you will find the link to Joe's speech. You do not have to create a sign in, just click on the link!

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Friday, October 21, 2022

The following was received from Mark Copeland and is posted here for your information:

Immediate Change to Annuitant Employee Express and Employee Express: Locking Inactive Accounts After 60 Days

Effective October 15, 2022, all Annuitant Employee Express (AEEX) and Employee Express (EEX) accounts (https://www.employeeexpress.gov/accounts) will be locked after 60 days of inactivity.

AEEX and EEX will send email reminders to the annuitant and employee email address on file 30 days, 15 days, and 5 days prior to the account being locked out for 60 days of inactivity.

To access AEEX, annuitants must have an email address on file. AEEX access assistance can be requested via the Help Request link on the AEEX website in the top right of the page. If the Help Request link is chosen, under the Agency drop down menu, please select Department of State (Foreign Service Annuitants/Retiree). Once unlocked, the AEEX Help Desk will send the user an email message. The user will then be able to log in through Login.gov to gain access to their account. Please reach out to AnnuityPaySupport@state.gov for assistance with adding email address information to annuitant files, if necessary.

For questions regarding this notice, please email AnnuityPaySupport@state.gov. For questions using the Login.gov functionality, please send inquiries to the Login.gov helpdesk: support@login.gov.

Sincerely,

The Bureau of the Comptroller and Global Financial Services Global Compensation (CGFS/GC) Communications Team