Wednesday, August 20, 2025

I received the following e-mail up-date from Dan Robinson, Rob's son:

All

I've received several requests from some of you for an update on my dad's (Rob's) health status since my last note at the end of July.

As of today (8/19), Dad is still in hospice care at his home in Kilmarnock, Virginia, and his condition continues to stabilize and improve every day, albeit very slowly. Since he entered hospice on 7/21, dad's ability to eat solid food has improved dramatically, and his appetite seems to have grown. His cognitive abilities have improved somewhat as well, although he is still demonstrating an advanced state of dementia. He is very tired most of each day, and he does not have the strength to leave his bed -- therefore he is taking all his meals and medicines from an adjustable hospital bed that was brought into his room.

Dad's ultimate recovery, if it happens at all, will be very slow. I have set us an ambitious goal to have him up and out of the bed, moving around on his own, hopefully by Christmas. I don't think it will be any sooner than that, if at all.

Thanks again to all of you who have sent emails offering prayers and good wishes. I read them all to dad as they come in, and he seems to enjoy hearing from all of you. Going forward, please send any get well messages to dad's email address (this address): kj4kms@comcast.net, instead of to my personal email address. (I found that some of your emails that were sent to my address were diverted directly into my Spam folder, and I almost missed them.)

Finally, if any of you want to be taken off of this email distro list, please just email me back and I'll remove you from any future emails about my dad.

Thanks,

Dan Robinson

Sunday, August 17, 2025

I received a new story from Mac McGowan to be published. It is entitled "My Adventures at the 2025 Bonneville Salt Flats Speedway"! It may be found at New Stories!

Saturday, July 26, 2025

I received the following e-mail up-date from Dan Robinson, Rob's son:



All

A quick update on my dad, Rob Robinson ("Robbie", "Wayne"):

Dad entered into hospice care this past Monday, 7/21, at his home in the Commonwealth Senior Living assisted living facility in Kilmarnock, Virginia. All the medical "experts" thought that he'd be lucky to have a few more days, maybe a week of life left.

Well, Dad wasn't having any of that! In the past few days, he has resumed eating some solid food, his cognition is improving, and he is regaining strength every day. He is still not able to move around on his own yet, but he's talking a lot more than he was before and it's looking like he might eventually make a recovery. We are very cautiously optimistic about Dad's chances to recover, but we aren't ruling it out.

Thanks to the many of you who replied to my email from last week with your good wishes and stories about your times together with my dad. When I visited him yesterday, I read every single email aloud to him, and he seemed to enjoy hearing from all of you.

I'll continue to provide updates periodically, and I'm available via Dad's email address and also at my own email: dan91vmi@gmail.com in case anyone has any questions.

Thanks,

Dan Robinson

Friday, July 18, 2025

I received the following e-mail from Dan Robinson, Rob's son:

All

This is Dan Robinson, writing to you from my dad, Rob Robinson's email account. If you are receiving this email, you are a friend of my dad's, and I thought you'd want to read this update on him.

In mid-March, earlier this year, Dad moved out of his house in Charlottesville, Virginia, where he had been living for the past 15 years, and he moved into an Assisted Living facility near my home in Kilmarnock, Virginia. For the past few years, Dad has had some health problems that were more recently compounded by advancing dementia, and it was no longer possible for him to safely live alone. He grumbled about it at first, but it didn't take long for Dad to grow to enjoy his new home. He met some new friends in his own age group, was eating three hot meals a day, and even got himself a girlfriend! Our family was all very glad that Dad had made the move, and he lives 5 minutes away from me, so we have been able to see him much more frequently. Dad happily celebrated his 88th birthday in May, surrounded by my family (including his grandsons) and his new lady friend.

Unfortunately, on Sunday, June 29th, Dad was rushed to the ER with a blood clot in the main artery that supplies blood to the intestines. The blood clot stopped blood flow to his intestines for somewhere between 6-8 hours. They medevac’d Dad to a hospital near Richmond, Virginia for an emergency vascular surgery to remove the blood clot, which was successful. However, damage had been done to his large intestines (colon), small intestines, kidneys, and gall bladder due to them having no blood flow for 6-8 hours. The following day, 6/30, Dad underwent a major abdominal surgery where they removed half of his large intestine. He was fully sedated from Monday morning thru Thursday, 7/3. The surgery to repair his intestines was successful.

Dad remained in the hospital to recover, but unfortunately, he has not made any measurable improvement in his recovery over the past two weeks. In some ways, he has gotten worse: he now has an infection that is not responding to antibiotics, and his kidney function is worsening. He has "hospital delirium" that prevents him from understanding where he is and what is happening around him, and -- perhaps most concerning -- he has not regained his ability to swallow solid food. We asked his doctors to continue the regimen of medical care for a few more days, in hopes that he could turn the corner, but he has not done so. Therefore, on the advice of his doctors and after much internal family deliberation, we have decided to place my dad into hospice care starting next Monday, July 21. Unless a miracle recovery occurs, it's likely that my Dad will no longer be with us by the end of this month.

If you have good memories of my Dad, please include him in a thought, say a prayer, or raise a glass to him. I'll keep everyone informed over the next few days/weeks as Dad's health status changes. If you have any questions for me, please reply to this email -- I am checking Dad's email account daily.

Thanks for your friendship to my Dad,

Dan Robinson

Editor's Note: Rob's email adddress is kj4kms@comcast.net.

Thursday, July 10, 2025

Pacific Northwest CANDOER Spring Luncheon at Newport, Oregon

I received the following pictures from Dick Kalla and Judy Chidester:

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Thursday, June 12, 2025 Death of Richard D. Grimes Richard (Rich) David Grimes, of St. Louis Park, MN, passed away on Sunday, June 8, 2025. He was born in Minneapolis on March 1, 1940 to Cyril and Marian (McDonough) Grimes. He was preceded in death by brothers Charles (Chuck), Michael (Mike), and James (Jim); and sister Patricia (Pat) Grimes. He is survived by his most beloved wife, Marie; daughters Theresa Flannery and Christina Boettcher; son-in-law Brent Boettcher; and grandchildren Molly Flannery, Sophie Flannery, Anna Boettcher and Matthew Boettcher. After servings two years in the US Army during the Vietnam War, he spent most of his professional life working for the US State Department, where he lived in 12 countries and visited over 40 others. He was a true student of life, always pursuing knowledge and experience. His family found great joy in his gift of storytelling and never-ending gratitude for the life he had been gifted. His curiosity about the world around him and its people made him incredibly friendly and approachable to all who crossed his path. Known to speak to strangers and crack a joke, it was hard not to love him after only a moment in his presence. Richard will be remembered by those who knew him as a wonderful father, loving grandfather, and fantastic friend – quick to laugh, witty, and full of wisdom. Above all, he will be remembered for the love he had for his wife Marie, which grew every day of their 59-year marriage, even in the toughest of times. He will be deeply missed. Private interment Fort Snelling National Cemetery. Memorials may be made to Hillsdale College www.hillsdale.edu/support/ways-to-give/ or any veteran’s organization.

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Wednesday, April 23, 2025

I have posted a picture of the attendees at the 2025 Myrtle Beach CANDOER golf outing organized yearly by Tom Paolozzi.

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Tuesday, April 08, 2025

While at the Spring Washington DC Area CANDOER Luncheon today I learned from Mike Sulak of an Organization called the Senior Living Foundation of the American Foreign Service. The organization assists retirees and current FSOs in need. You can learn more about the Foundation and their mission by going to their web page at slfoundation.org.

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Friday, March 07, 2025

I received the following picture from Joe Devlin that was posted in the Bonn BAX break room to commemorate the donations for a new television.

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Monday, March 03, 2025 Death of Brian J. Bennett Brian J. Bennett, 77, passed away peacefully on February 23rd, surrounded by his loving family. Born in Norwood, MA, and raised in Bridgewater, Brian was a proud graduate of Bridgewater-Raynham High School, Class of 1965. After high school, Brian enlisted in the Navy and served in the Vietnam War as a Radio Operator for four years. While his naval ship was stopped in Vietnam in 1968, Brian met his future wife, Yen Le. Brian’s time in the Navy came to an end and he enrolled in Classes at Massasoit Community College. After his studies concluded, Brian joined the CIA and went back to Vietnam until 1975 when the CIA asked him to return to the states for training. During this time, the war ended and Brian was unable to return to Yen and his then two children until 1980 when he left the CIA. In that same year, Brian retired from his position within the CIA and embarked on a new career in communications first for the United Nations and then Foreign Service State Department. Throughout his career in communications, Brian and his family lived in several countries, including Ghana, Germany, Bangladesh, and Bulgaria. He and Yen raised four children, instilling in them a love for exploration and learning. In 2012, after a remarkable four-decades long career that took him to over 42 countries, Brian retired and he and Yen settled in Fayetteville, NC, to be closer to their family. Brian was known for his warm storytelling, quick wit, and infectious sense of humor. He found joy in golfing, reading, watching TV, and painting. Brian was a kind and loving husband and father. Brian’s legacy of love, humor, and adventure will live on through his family and the many lives he touched throughout his travels and career. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him. Brian was the loving husband of Yen Bennett, and devoted father of Lee Bennett, Jennifer Silva and her husband Guy Silva, Sr., William Bennett, Austin Bennett, and loving “Grampa” of Guy Silva, Jr. and Emily Bennett. Brian was the twin brother of Marcia Erickson, elder brother of Anita Bennett, and the younger brother of the late Dorothy Greene. Brian is also survived by many loving nieces, nephews, and friends. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend the visiting hours on Monday, March 3, 2025 from 10 AM - 12 PM in the Chapman Funeral Home, BRIDGEWATER. A funeral service will be celebrated on Monday, March 3, 2025 at 12 PM in the Chapman Funeral Home, Bridgewater. Burial to follow at Pine Hill Cemetery, West Bridgewater. Editor's Note: I do not have valid contact information for Yen! Thanks to Archie McLaughlin for furnishing information on the passing of Brian!

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Wednesday, February 26, 2025 Death of Roger William Lahaie I received the following from Leo Cyr. Sad news. For those who might not be on Facebook. Chad posted notification of his dad's death. He did not post an address. I only have Roger's assisted living facility address in Virginia Beach. It is with a heavy heart that I announce the passing of my father, Roger William Lahaie. He passed away from complications related to bladder cancer on Wednesday, February 12th, at 5:11 p.m., surrounded by his son and daughter-in-law. Roger left this world peacefully, but his absence leaves a profound hole in my heart. He was a giant in my life, a man I looked up to and tried to emulate, from the way he treated others to his sense of humor. OBITUARY He was born on March 1, 1943, to the late Kenneth and Svea (Granlund) Lahaie in Marinette. Roger spent his childhood in Marinette and graduated from Marinette High School in 1961. He continued his education at the University of Wisconsin, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in 1966. In 1966, Roger joined the Army and served two years, receiving an honorable discharge after his service in Vietnam. Following his military service, he began a long and distinguished career with the Department of State as a Diplomatic Courier. Roger dedicated 33 years to this role, retiring in 2002. His career took him on many adventures, including tours in Washington D.C., Frankfurt, Germany, and Bangkok, Thailand. After retiring, Roger returned to Marinette and worked as a substitute teacher for the Marinette School District. Roger is survived by his son, Chad, of Virginia Beach, Virginia, and his sister, Marlene Mason of Sun City Center, Florida. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Juliana, of Sydney, Australia, as well as his parents and his brother, Richard. Roger's passing marks the end of a life well-lived, and he will be missed dearly by those who knew him. His memory will live on in the hearts of all who were touched by his kindness, strength, and unwavering sense of humor. A grave side service will be held in Marinette at a later date.

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Tuesday, February 24, 2025

Phil Tinney furnished information on the establishment of the OC organization, after the Cuban Missle Crisis. It may be seen here Orrick Report.

REMINDER: I no longer publish the CANDOER Newsletter, but if you have a story you would like to have published, I will post it to the New Stories page on the main menu.

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Monday, February 24, 2025 Death of Carmen Bevacua December 15, 1937 - October 25, 2024 Denver, North Carolina - It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Carmen F. Bevacqua on October 25, 2024, at the age of 86. Carmen was born on December 15, 1937 in Cleveland, Ohio to second-generation Sicilian immigrant parents John and Grace Bevacqua. Carmen met his beloved wife Susan J. Cowell of 40 years in Ohio. Carmen and Susan enjoyed many loving years traveling the world with their two children, Shelly Bevacqua (61) and Brett Bevacqua (59). Carmen was known for his charming smile, brilliant sense of humor, and warmth that he shared with everyone he met. He had an immense pride in his Sicilian heritage that he loved to share with friends and family. Carmen knew no stranger. Carmen served his country proudly for the entirety of his career. He joined the Army after college and served until April of 1964. He then continued to serve his country within the Department of State Foreign Service Diplomatic Corps as an officer of telecommunications. Carmen retired from his distinguished career with numerous honors in 2002. Upon the death of his first wife Susan; Carmen found love again with Mary "Marcy" Briem. They wed in 2005 and spent 19 joy-filled years together in Denver, North Carolina. He spent his days playing golf with his family and friends (who he also considered family). He loved walking their dog Gracie and being a part of his community, Verdict Ridge. He was adored by his beloved granddaughter Sarah Hardwick and her three children Charlotte (11), Sadie (10), and August (5). Preceded in joining the Lord: Susan Bevacqua (wife), Grace Samson (mother), John Bevacqua (father), Walt Samson (step-father), Marilyn Bevacqua (sister-in-law), and Marisue Bevacqua (sister in-law). Survived By: Mary Briem (wife), Shelly Bevacqua (daughter), Brett Bevacqua (son), Sarah Hardwick (granddaughter), James Hanway (grandson-in-law), Charlotte Blythe Penry (great-granddaughter), Sarah Grace Penry (great-granddaughter), August James Hanway (great-grandson), Tony Bevacqua (brother), Bill Bevacqua (brother), John Bevacqua (brother), Patricia Bevacqua (sister-in-law), Fortunata Bevacqua (sister), Julie Bywater (step-daughter), Richard Bywater (step-son), KC Bywater (step-daughter-in-law), Maddox (step-grandson), and London (step-granddaughter). Condolences may be shared online at www.salemfh.com.

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Sunday, February 23, 2025

Myrtle Beach, SC Golf and Reunion Event

Tom Paolozzi is planning a Golf/Reunion Event for April 13-17 at Myrtle Beach S.C. Everyone is invited. If you don't play golf there are plenty of other events to partake of. There are many miniature golf courses, a pool at the motel, beach access, etc.

Tom states that it looks like we will have a great reunion this spring. I have the following attending, so far, but not all playing golf:

Mike Ethridge, Gary Bobbitt, Dick Hoffer, Jack Torok, Leo Duncan, Dick Gunn, Vinnie McCarthy, Joe Devlin, Al Thomas, Bob Catlin, Mick Douglas (Next Year) and Steve Prosser (Son of a long time OCer now deceased, Jim Prosser), and me.

We will be making tee times in a few weeks. (So far, I have Gary, Jack, Mike, and Vinnie playing every day). I need to know everyone's schedule.

Also, I understand some may wish to bring their Wifes - not a problem, just need to know. Best Western Ocean Sands has a pool and beach access.

For planning purposes, check in on Sunday the 13th of April. Will have tee times for Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday for those who wish to play golf. We will have a group Dinner Monday at Benny Rappas (Italian) and Cafe Old Vienna (German) on Tuesday.

If you have any questions, do not hesitate to contact me. Tom (tomytom@comcast.net)

When you contact (Tom - tomytom@comcast.net) he needs to know the following:

1. How many in your party
2. When you plan on arriving
3. How long you are going to stay
4. If you and your guest are playing golf and if you will play Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday or just one of those days.
5. Will you and your guest be attending the scheduled dinners on Monday and Tuesday


As plans are finalized Tom will let everyone know all the plans and the cost of everything.

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Wednesday, January 15, 2025

Tootsie Sterenberg furnished a new address. She has moved to Lagos, Portugal. There is no change to her email address or cell phone number. Thanks Tootsie for helping me keep my records up-to-date!

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Saturday, December 28, 2024

Doug McGifford furnished a new e-mail address: doug.mcgiff@gmail.com. Thanks Doug for helping me keep my records up-to-date!

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Saturday, December 28, 2024 Death of Kathleen McGuigan I received word from Mike Sulak that Kathy passed away on February 21, 2024: Kathleen McGuigan, longtime resident of Blackwood, NJ, passed away February 21, 2024 at the age of 76 years. Beloved daughter of the late Hugh McGuigan and the late Leanore McGuigan (nee Urban). Dear sister of Patricia A. Gorman, the late Barbara L. Rice, Rita Lois Uscinowicz (Ben), and Janet C. Roberts (Peter). She is also survived by numerous loving nieces and nephews. Kathleen attended St. Joe's Grammar School, Camden, NJ, and graduated from Woodrow Wilson High School, Camden, NJ. After graduation, she moved to Virginia and began working for the United States Government. She went on to have an exciting career accompanying dignitaries and ambassadors around the world. Kathleen made friends in all of the places she traveled. She would always pick up a painting or two in each country she would visit. She had the following assignments during her career with State: 99-01 Rio de Janeiro; 01-02 Beirut; 02-04 Vientiane; 04-06 IRM/OPS/ITI/SI/CSB, SA-44; 06-08 IRM/OPS/MSO/MSMC; 08-10 SI/CSB (Systems Integrity, Crypto Services Branch). She will be dearly missed by her family and friends. Services for Kathleen will be held privately as per her family's wishes. Condolences may be shared at www.earlefuneralhome.com.

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Thursday, December 13, 2024

I have posted a copy of the CGFS Foreign Service Bulletin - May 2024 - in both Web format and Microsoft Word! It may be found on the "Main Menu" under "Useful Information"!