E-SYSTEMS/RAYTHEON RETIREES LUNCH GROUP

By Eileen Wahlstrom

September 27,2023

Present: 21

First Time: Heather Fear (worked in Benefits)

Long Time: None

Guests: None

SICKNESS:

Covid is starting to ramp up. Be diligent. Alice and Bret Bowling have Covid as well as Mary Ellen Myers

Barbara Cowgill : Bypass surgery a few weeks ago. As of August 25th, she is still having some episodes with POTS (Postural orthostatic tachycardia, a blood circulation disorder .) She has a doctor's appointment on September 12th. She is having dialysis on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. She is HOMEBOUND until September 30th. She still needs to regain her strength. She has home healthcare, dialysis appointments, and doctors' appointments.

Mike Farris – From Raye Ann Farris : For those of you who don't know Mike was diagnosed with Stage 4 Throat and Neck Cancer Tuesday March 28. Mike was supposed to begin his Chemotherapy/Radiation combo treatments September 18th, however his lab work didn't allow him to have his chemo treatment but he was able to have Radiation treatment each day. Fast forward to today, he is having his Chemotherapy treatment, but was unable to have Radiation due to swelling. I'm not allowed in the Radiation area so I'm not sure if his mask would not fit properly, or if the mask along with the swelling made it to difficult for him to breath. We will see the Radiation Oncologist tomorrow. Hopefully he will be able to have Radiation treatments the remainder of the week. He is scheduled for Chemotherapy every Monday, Radiation Monday through Friday for the next 7 weeks. Good news is his tumors have shrunk. He’s even ventured out into the yard. (Hopefully not to try to do any yard work in this heat.) Second-hand information from Rae Ann through his in-laws: One tumor is down from 12.0 to 5.7. The other is down from 9.2 to 5.4

Carrol Bunch : In rehab with a broken ankle and messed up knee

Deaths

Gary Shaffer Mull

September 15, 1945 ~ August 12, 202

Gary Shaffer Mull was born on September 15, 1945, in Somerset County, Pennsylvania, to Park and Alma (Shaffer) Mull

Upon graduating from Somerset Area High School in 1963, Gary immediately enlisted into the United States Air Force at the age of 17. During his 5 years of service in which he obtained the rank of Staff Sergeant, Gary was stationed in Illinois, Nevada, Hawaii, The Philippines, and Nebraska. Throughout his time in the Air Force, Gary forged life-long friendships which he cherished greatly until the end.

Gary married Sharon Tysor on February 1, 1969, at Queen of Apostles Catholic Church in Council Bluffs, Iowa. While living and working in Omaha, Gary and Sharon welcomed their three children before moving to Plano, Texas, in 1974. Their move was a result of Gary taking a position with E-Systems, where he would enjoy a nearly 30-year career. At E-Systems, Gary traveled extensively, both domestically and internationally, completing nearly 30 trips to Alice Springs, Australia, before eventually moving there with Sharon in 1997 for a four year Outback adventure.

Obituary: Click here

James Pope

July 22,1943 - August 10, 2023

Jim left for heaven on August 10, 2023 surrounded by family and friends. He passed away peacefully from multiple heart complications at the age of 80. Jim was born July 22,1943 in Weston, TX and later moved to McKinney, TX.

He graduated from McKinney High School and went on to the "only" college the University of Texas Austin. After graduating in 1965 he returned to Dallas and began his career in the financial world. Starting with LTV then E-Systems/Raytheon he ended his corporate career as Vice President - Chief Financial Office. After 33 years in the corporate world he retired at age 55 to follow his passion...golf

Obituary: Click here

Announcements

Eileen continues to collect eye glasses and hearing aids for donation to the Lion’s Club. Thank you all who have donated.

Eileen Wahlstrom

E-SYSTEMS/RAYTHEON RETIREES LUNCH GROUP

By Eileen Wahlstrom

March 29, 2023/ April 26, 2023

Present: 28, 20

First Time: Bob Compton, Darrell Fletcher/

Long Time: Joe Cox, Jim Dunn, Sharon Dunn/ Eddie Moore

Guests: None

SICKNESS:

Bill and Lill Abston :

Update about Lil and Bill Abston from their daughter - Grace

Mom wanted me to give an update. If you don’t know already, they had a car accident late Sunday afternoon, March 12th, while on their way to their small group Bible study.

They were t-boned on mom’s side of the car and it was totaled. Dave saw their car at the car pound and couldn’t believe the condition. They were hit three times by the same car and the car spun in circles. She was moved from the hospital yesterday to Encompass Rehabilitation Hospital in Plano on 15th St. She has a cracked sternum and she broke three ribs on the right side. Her right foot and right shoulder are hurt but thankfully neither one is broken. Her back is very sore too. She is experiencing some difficulty talking as it hurts so much. She will be at rehab for at least two weeks. Mom has her phone but it might take her awhile to answer texts and/or calls.

Dad had scans Sunday night at hospital and praise God there was no re-injury to his neck. (For those who don’t know he fell while walking his daily 3-5 miles two days before Christmas and broke neck in two places. He got the neck brace off a week before this car accident. ) My brother, Dave, took him to doctor today because his leg started hurting a couple of days ago. Doctor did X-rays of his back today thinking it might be coming from back. (He started wearing a back brace several days ago.) It may be a few days for those results and depending on what they find, he may have further X-rays on leg.

The seat belts and airbags did their job and we thank God their injuries weren’t worse. We thank everyone praying for them and solicit continued prayers for their recovery. It’s very hard for them to be separated from each other after 66 years (next month) of marriage.

Hug your loved ones and tell them you love them!

Grace

Mike Farris :

From Rae Ann Farris:

Hey Guys Mike Farris would like to thank you all for the birthday wishes. For those of you who don't know Mike was diagnosed with Stage 4 Throat and Neck Cancer Tuesday March 28. We have been in TMC Denison since that day. On Wednesday he received a trach and was taken to ICU. Thursday a PEG (feeding) Tube and Friday I witnessed the man I love endure something I will never forget. The Dr was doing a bed side trach change which is normally a simple procedure well things went down hill real fast. All of the sudden His ICU room was filled with medical staff and I was being masked and gowned. The new trach could not be inserted because it was catching on the hardware from his neck fusion. As I stood there watching and listening I began to pray. I heard one of the Dr's say get ready we have about 3 seconds then we're going in the lung. God was certainly in that room. The Dr was able to place the trach in enough to rush Mike to the OR. He came back to his ICU room with a temporary trach and his Dual Port for his treatments. Mike will be headed back to the OR Wednesday to receive what we hope to be his last trach procedure. We have an excellent team of Dr's with a game plan already in place and a even greater support team in our Families. The next few months will be very hard, please keep Mike and our team of Dr's in your thoughts and prayers.

Deaths

Jesse Gilbert

June 24, 1933 - March 7, 2023

With sad hearts, Beth, Roland, I, and our families want to let you all know that Dad, Jesse Gilbert, passed away peacefully yesterday (Tuesday) afternoon at home.

We appreciate all the cards, prayers, kind words, and love we have received from friends and family. We love you all.

Jesse was a Systems Engineer for a good many years in Garland.

Obituary: Click here

Debbie Gober

July 21, 1951-February 27, 2023

On February 27th, Debbie Gober, loving wife, mother, sister, and devoted friend, passed away peacefully in Dallas Texas.

After graduation from Stephen F., Debbie returned to Dallas, where she met the love of her life, Mark Gober at Lovers Lane UMC. Their marriage in Australia in October,1982 was the beginning of a fun-filled life that included family, world travel, and many cherished friends.

In 1989 Debbie and Mark moved back to Dallas, where in 1994, their family grew with the arrival of their cherished son, Cade.

Debbie is survived by her loving husband Mark and son Cade; her sisters Cindy Phaup and Martha Butcher; her nieces Lindsey Phaup and Leslie Horn.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a charitable donation to: Feed My Starving Children or Rays of Light. Please notify the charity that your gift is "In Memory of Deborah Sue Gober."

Obituary: Click here

Bob White

August 24, 1941 - March 21, 2023

Born on August 24th, 1941, to Robert Edward White and Marie (Devlin) White in Enid, Oklahoma. He was a high school graduate in 1959. Following graduation, he went on to serve for 5 years in the U.S. Navy. He landed a job in the engineering department at E-Systems where he continued to advance and retire with Raytheon making wonderful friends along the way. One of which he married on August 4th, 1983, Mary “Betty” White. Bob was a wonderful, kind, and patient Brother, Uncle, Dad, and Grandpa. He enjoyed spending time with family and friends, and especially his Grandchildren. His most favorite thing to do was Bowl. He and his wife bowled in a bowling league with their work colleagues for many years. His main joy was spending time with friends and family. His most special trait was his never-ending ability to light up any room he walked into with his funny jokes, great stories and contagious smile. He is survived by his wife, Mary and their eleven grandkids. His daughter Kristal and son Bobby, along with his family and friends who loved him dearly

Obituary: Click here

Mark Clark

May 21, 1964 - March 15, 2023

Mark Andrew Clark, 58, of Wichita Falls, passed away on Wednesday, March 15, 2023.

Mark was born on May 21, 1964 to Mildred (Choate) and Johnny Sullivan Clark. He was married to Julia (Brown) on May 28, 1983.

Mark served in the United States Marine Corps in the late 1980s. He graduated with a Bachelor of Computer Science in May of 1997, from Midwestern State University. Since then, Mark has been working with several contractors for the U.S. Department of Defense.

Mark loved fishing, music, and especially family. Mark was known for his kind, gentle spirit, and his deep love and consideration of others before himself. He loved others because of his love for the Lord, above all.

Mark was reunited with parents, Mildred Alsup and husband, Phillip Alsup Sr., father, Johnny Clark; his mother-in-law, Janet Brown; sister, Sharon Renee Clark; and grandparents, MT and Ruby Choate. He is survived by his wife, Julia Clark; mother, Helen Clark; sister, Tammye Montgomery and husband Randy; sister, Rhonda Moser and husband Jeff; brother, Phillip Alsup, Jr.; brother, Michael Choate and wife Laterha; sister, Vickie Foster and husband Lonnie; sister, Tracy Miller and husband Thumper; brother, Rick Patterson and many adoring nieces, nephews, great nieces, and great nephews.

Obituary: Click here

Sandra Swingle (Wife of Larry Swingle and daughter of David and Ruth Tacke)

October 5, 1949 - April 5, 2023

Mrs. Sandra T. Swingle, age 73, passed away on Wednesday, April 5, 2023, in Prosper, Texas. Sandra was born on October 5, 1949 to her parents who preceded her in death, Mr. David Richard Tacke and her mother Mrs. Ruth Parker Tacke

She was a devoted wife of 51 years to her husband, Larry Swingle, and together they raised 2 daughters, Kim Ann House (Greg House) and Sharon Kelley (Tim Kelley). She was also a proud Moppie to her 4 grandchildren, Jason and Jessica House, Kingston Kelley and Braddox Runge, who brought her immense joy and happiness. She is also survived by her brother, David Christian and two nephews, Erik and Wesley Hare.

Sandra was a lover of horses, books, dachshunds, chai lattes and chocolate. She gave back to her community in her younger years with weekly blood donations and was a wonderful cook who always took care of friends and neighbors with a good meal when needed. Sandra leaves her loved ones with fond memories and a legacy that will carry on in her children and grandchildren.

Obituary: Click here

Charles Troy Brodnax

March 28, 1933 - April 12, 2023

Charles "Chuck" Brodnax went home to his Savior on April 12, 2023. Chuck was born in Natchitoches, LA on March 28, 1933 to Thomas and Katherine Brodnax

He joined the USAF after finishing high school and served in Japan, Korea and Okinawa before being discharged in 1955. Chuck attended the University of Houston graduating Summa Cum Laude with degrees in both Math and Electrical Engineering in 1960. Later, he earned a Masters in Electrical Engineering from NYU while working at Bell Telephone Labs and a PhD in Statistics from SMU while at Texas Instruments. His career continued with USAF in Ohio, Hughes Aircraft in California and finally, at E-Systems in Dallas. After retirement, he continued to teach part-time at Dallas Baptist University, SMU and UTD.

In 1956, Chuck married Peggy and they had a son, Tim Brodnax. During Tim's early years in Dallas, youth soccer was growing in popularity and Chuck was a leader in the formation and coaching of youth soccer. Following the death of his first wife, Chuck and Betsy Doyle married in 1992 and they formed a successful real estate partnership. For 31 years, they enjoyed a very happy and fulfilling life together

Chuck had an unwavering faith in God and he shared this with all those he encountered. He had a gift for supporting and mentoring others in so many different activities. His passions included BSF, CBS,

The Dallas Banjo Band, golf, The Masons and Scottish Rite Hospital. He was a 33° degree Mason and Past Master of The Claude L. Austin Lodge where he was involved in numerous Masonic activities

Chuck is survived by his loving wife Betsy; Son Tim (Jana) Brodnax; Stepsons Mark and Danny Doyle; Grandchildren Jeff (Kara Mae) Brodnax, Matt (Cathy) Brodnax, Dan Brodnax, Jon Brodnax and Kate (Jake) Kennedy and Great Grandchild Shep Kennedy. He also leaves behind Sister Karon (Bill) Appell; Brothers Tom (Linda) Brodnax and Bill Brodnax.

Obituary: Click here

Barry Eugene Conroe

December 14, 1957 — April 19, 2023

arry Eugene Conroe, age 65 of Sachse, Texas, passed away Wednesday, April 19th, 2023, at Medical City Hospital of Plano.

He received his dual degrees from the University of Kentucky in Computer Science and Mathematics, and his MBA from the University of Dallas. He began his career with Texas Instruments. Throughout a distinguished career, he provided leadership in Information Technology, System Engineering, and Software Engineering for Fortune Two Hundred companies before retiring after 33 years with Raytheon as an IT Director.

He held membership in the International Council on Systems Engineering and the Society for Information Management, among other professional organizations. He was COBIT certified in IT Management and Governance, ITIL certified in IT Service Management, and received numerous honors and awards including the 2005 Excellence in IT Award from Raytheon, Incorporated.

Barry was an avid University of Kentucky basketball fan as well as a Dallas Cowboys fan. He would never miss a single game

Upon retiring, he filled his time with mentorship, spending time with his family, playing golf, or doing landscaping in his yard

He was a member of North Place Church and never wanted to miss one of Pastor Bryan’s sermons. Through the fellowship at North Place Church, he developed many meaningful relationships.

Barry is survived by his wife, Sherri Conroe; daughter, Emily Conroe of Houston Texas, and son, Ryan Conroe of Denton Texas; bonus daughters: Cameron Cruz of Ashville, North Carolina, Amanda Redus (Blake) of Garland Texas, and Lauren Cruz of Sachse Texas; three grandchildren, Jagger Cruz-Bello, Memphis Redus, and Rue Redus, sister Darlene Russell (Marvin), nephew Christopher Russell; and one furry grandchild, Emily’s dog, Leon Conroe.

Barry was preceded in death by his parents, Jackie and Nellie Conroe of Radcliff, Kentucky.

Obituary: Click here

Announcements

Eileen continues to collect eye glasses and hearing aids for donation to the Lion’s Club. Thank you all who have donated.

Note – several members brought old sets of eyeglasses to the September meeting. Terry gathered them and later coordinated a hand-off to Eileen in early October

Eileen Wahlstrom

E-SYSTEMS/RAYTHEON RETIREES LUNCH GROUP

By Eileen Wahlstrom

February 22, 2023

Present: 26

First Time: Ron Alderman (retired Oct 2022), Andy Flowers (retired a loooooong time ago but just decided to grace us with his presence!)

Long Time: None

Guests: Cortney & Leo Little (guests of Bobby Gambrell

SICKNESS:

Jesse Gilbert : has been hospitalized. He fell, but, no injuries from the fall, however, he said he just didn’t feel right. He’s been getting different tests.

From his daughter: “If anyone would like to send my dad a Get Well, Thinking of You, or Praying for You card, feel free to message me privately and I will send you my mailing address. He's not getting on Facebook much right now and I know he'd enjoy hearing from many of his friends and family.” I messaged her and here is her reply.

Hi, Eileen! You can send any and all cards and correspondence to my address and I'll make sure Dad gets it. Thank you so much! Paula Brazzell, 2187 Legate Road, Madill, OK 73446

Bob White: From Johnny Gardner – “Marv this morning I was in contact with Bob’s next door neighbor: Sammy. He relayed that Bob has had a severe loss of memory following Carotid Artery surgery within this week. I had attempted to speak to Bob by his cell & home phones. Both appear to be disconnected. Have not confirmed with Betty his wife. Sad.”

Deaths

Yvonne McGregor

July 15, 1930 - February 4, 2023

After raising her four children, Yvonne went to work at E-Systems in Garland, Texas. Yvonne proclaimed after raising children she would raise flowers. In retirement she spent countless hours in her garden, spent time with friends, went “antiquing,” enjoyed going to the theater, participated in garden club, book club, bible study, and traveling with her women’s group and was a member of Holy Nativity Episcopal Church in Plano.

Yvonne was predeceased by her parents T.G. and Mildred Armour; her husband Buster Louis McGregor, Jr.

She is survived by her children Cynthia Green, Melissa Lawrence (Don), Kelley McGregor, Rebecca Reising (Mike), and grandchildren Samuel Green, Jennifer Lawrence, Jessica Lawrence, Ruby McGregor, Krystal McGregor, Audrey Reising and Rachel Reising.

Obituary: Click here

Thomas Longo

May 20, 1954 – February 01, 2023

Thomas Anthony Longo, Jr., age 68, of Lone Oak passed away on Wednesday, February 1, 2023 at his home. Mr. Longo was born on May 20, 1954 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania to Thomas Anthony Longo, Sr. and Laverne (Hinkofer) Longo. He married Allyson Leslie Spondike on July 4, 1997 in Lone Oak.

Thomas is survived by his wife of 25 years, Allyson Spondike of Lone Oak; sisters, Rosemary Mary of Quinton, Virginia, Sue Ann Papesch of Erie, Pennsylvania, Nancy Longo of Pittsburgh, Judy Waclawski of Pittsburgh; daughter, Jessica Longo of Waterford, Michigan; son-in-law, Andy Sprague of Denver, Colorado; grandchildren, Issac, Grace, and Micaiah Sprague of Denver, Nicholas Joseph and Lorenzo “Leo” William of Waterford; many beloved nieces and nephews, including both great- and great-great; many beloved close friends, especially Joe Lamberger, Jay Curran, Alvin Rauschhuber, and Harold Clapper.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Thomas A. Longo, Sr. and Laverne (Hinkofer) Longo; daughter, Shannon (Hoguta) Sprague; and brother-in-law, Paul Mary.

No Texas services will be held. A memorial service will be held in Pennsylvania later this spring. The family asks that in lieu of plants and flowers, please send a donation to your favorite charity, or one you know would be meaningful to Tom.

Obituary: Click here

Carolyn Gambrell

Wife of Bobby Gambrell

July 8, 1938 - February 6, 2023

Carolyn Sue Gambrell, age 84, of Rowlett, TX, passed away February 6, 2023. She was born July 8, 1938, in Walters, OK, to Ethyl Irene (Whiteaker) and Edwin Harvey Amyx. Carolyn was personable, outgoing, and could make friends anywhere she went. She was beautiful, vibrant, and sassy. Carolyn was strong in her faith and loved the Lord. “Granny” loved her family dearly, they were everything to her.

Carolyn is survived by her husband: Robert “Bobby” Gambrell; sons: Michael Norwood and Adam Crum; daughter: Susan Rowland and husband Ted; stepdaughter: Cortney and husband Ryan; stepsons: Chris Nuncio and wife Marcy and Craig Nuncio; grandchildren: Candice, Mark, Jessica, Daniel, Natalie, Brittani, Vance, Matthew, Jordan, Troy, Emily and Leo; 16 great-grandchildren; brothers: Eddie and wife Billie, Bill and wife Kay, James and wife Sherry; and a host of numerous nieces, nephews and many friends. She is preceded by death by her son: Mark Norwood and her parents.

Obituary: Click here

Announcements

Eileen continues to collect eye glasses and hearing aids for donation to the Lion’s Club. Thank you all who have donated.

Note – several members brought old sets of eyeglasses to the September meeting. Terry gathered them and later coordinated a hand-off to Eileen in early October

Eileen Wahlstrom

E-SYSTEMS/RAYTHEON RETIREES LUNCH GROUP

By Eileen Wahlstrom

January 25, 2023

Present: 24

First Time: John Butler, John Graves, Arnold Flores, Mark Brant

Long Time: Lenny Holt

Guests: None

SICKNESS:

Jesse Gilbert : has been hospitalized. He fell, but, no injuries from the fall, however, he said he just didn’t feel right. He’s been getting different tests.

Dottie Vaughn : Brenda, Dottie’s daughter, said she is doing better from her fall but has moved to a memory care/assisted living residence. She just celebrated her 95th birthday on December 31st

Dottie Vaughn
The Crossings
3201 Karnes Rd.
Flower Mound, TX 75022
Room 106

Deaths

Phil Evans

June 1954 – January 8, 2023

On Saturday, 7 January, Phil Evans passed away after many years of health issues. Both Phil and his wife Beth worked for E-Systems/Raytheon (they both started at the Greenville location and then transferred to Garland).

Obituary: Click here

Glenn Shahan

February 1936 -January 9, 2023

Glenn B. Shahan, 86, was called home by his Lord and Savior on January 9, 2023. Glenn was born to Roy and Gertrude Shahan on February 16, 1936 in San Angelo, Texas. He was preceded in death by his parents, his older brother Earl (Gail) and Norman (Rebecca), grandson Nick Tripp, and Janis Shahan, the mother of his children, Wes and Melinda.

Glenn is survived by his loving wife Linda Parker Shahan of Killeen, Texas; his son Wesley (Peggy) Shahan of Aledo, Texas; his daughter Melinda (Rusty) Tripp of Keller, Texas; granddaughter Andi (Bret) Ramer of Aledo, Texas; granddaughter Rebecca (Payton) Kirkpatrick of Colleyville, Texas; grandson Jacob Shahan of Aledo, Texas; great-grandson Layton Ramer of Aledo, Texas; and future great-grandson Knox Kirkpatrick. He is also survived by Linda’s children Laurie (Brad) Kent of Leander, Texas; Randy (Allison) Culp of Salado, Texas and grandchildren, Sydney and Marin Kent, and Easton and Cannon Culp. Also surviving is his sister Helen Adams of The Hills, Texas as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

Glenn graduated from Denver City High School in 1954. He attended Texas Tech University and graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering in 1959, and obtained his Master’s Degree in Electrical Engineering in 1965 from Southern Methodist University. Glenn had a successful career at E-Systems where he was employed for 30 years. After retiring, he worked part time for Weatherford College teaching digital systems.

To say that Glenn loved the game of golf would be an understatement; he has probably hit more practice balls on the range than the average touring pro. Glenn belonged to Brookhaven Country Club, Willowbrook Country Club and his beloved Van Zandt Country Club in Canton, where he was a member for over 35 years. Throughout these years, he probably never made an enemy. This would also be where he earned the nickname Oney after the song by Johnny Cash. Glenn competed at a scratch level for a lot of years, and qualified for the Texas State Amateur several different years. Later in his life, while he didn’t play as much, you could still find him on the driving range working on his swing.

Another love of his was hunting. During the times his father Roy used to take the boys, Earl, Norman and Glenn to Sonora, Texas for their annual hunt, the competition was fierce to see who would get the biggest buck. As Glenn’s son, Wes, reached age nine, he started taking him along to introduce him to hunting. Over the years, they spent multiple days a year somewhere out in the woods hunting. Glenn especially loved the trips to the mountains of Colorado, Wyoming, Montana and even British Columbia, Canada when they would stay in tents. Not until the last 15 years did they finally put a wood stove in the cook tent for heat. You could expect, when going deer or elk camping with Glenn, there would be a campfire to sit around in the evening where he was sure to sip on red wine and swap lies from the day in the field.

Glenn loved to spend time with family and friends, but most of all his grandkids. “Pepaw” or “Mr. Glenn” was at almost every ballgame, swim meet, cheer and gymnastic competition. The memories that were made will forever be in our hearts. Glenn’s contagious laugh and unconditional love will always be missed.

A Celebration of Life will be on February 11, 2023 at 11:00 am at Crawford Bowers Funeral Home in Killeen, Texas. Visitation will be one hour before the service. Donations in lieu of flowers can be made to West Texas Boys Ranch in San Angelo, Texas. (www.wtbr.org).

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

Obituary: Click here

Bobby Daniels

January 2023

Bobby Daniels had a massive heart attack at his home and passed away. Memorial Service for Bobby Daniels
Saturday, February 4, 2023
Time: 11 AM
Location: Mount Carmel Missionary Baptist Church
3122 Metropolitan Avenue
Dallas, Texas 75215

Announcements

Eileen continues to collect eye glasses and hearing aids for donation to the Lion’s Club. Thank you all who have donated.

Note – several members brought old sets of eyeglasses to the September meeting. Terry gathered them and later coordinated a hand-off to Eileen in early October

Eileen Wahlstrom

E-SYSTEMS/RAYTHEON RETIREES LUNCH GROUP

By Eileen Wahlstrom

September 28, 2022 / October 26, 2022

The September meeting was hosted by Terry Gaus in the absence of Eileen due to the needs of her grandchildren.

Present: 22, 23

First Time: none, Chuck Farlow

Long Time: none, Pris Frye, JD Ray

Guests: none, none

SICKNESS:

Bobby Gambrell updated everyone on the status of his wife: 44 days (and counting) in hospital care. He also pointed out how, on a visit to her at the hospital in the early portion of this period, he found her incapacitated on the floor (presumably after attempting to visit the bathroom unassisted). She had been on the floor for quite some time, pointing out the irregularity of the hospital’s nursing care. Lucky thing that he showed up for a visit when he did; otherwise, the outcome could have been much worse.

Latest from Bobby is that Carolyn has been diagnosed with Dementia.

Jerry Kocher: He has been in the hospital since October 6th with fluid on his brain (hydro encephalitis). Last heard the doctors are discussing a procedure to drain the fluid.

Deaths

George Carter

June 1942 – August 2022

No obituary. George was a supervisor in maintenance. He was 80 years old at time of death

Fred Wnorowski

June 1935 – September 2022

Frederic Augustus Wnorowski, longtime and well known resident of Terrell, passed away on September 4, 2022 at the age of 87. Fred was born June 17, 1935 in Salem, Illinois to Paul and Ruby Wnorowski, both of whom met him in Heaven along with his daughter, Jan McIntyre, great grandsons, Jackson and Judd Fojtasek, sister, Yolanda Morrison and her husband, Amos.

Fred’s family moved to Terrell in 1953 when he was a junior in high school. After graduation, he enlisted in the United States Army and was stationed in Germany, where he proudly served. He married the love of his life, Saundra Conder, on June 5, 1954. Upon returning to Terrell after his military service, Fred worked at KTER, the radio station owned by his father. He later worked as an Electrical Engineer at Temco. After 36 years, he retired from that company which had become (LTV, E-Systems), Raytheon to spend more time with his family.

Fred served his community in many ways. He was a longtime and active member of the First Christian Church of Terrell where he served as an elder as well as serving a term as Chairman of the Board. He also was a member of the Terrell Jaycees where he was elected President along with several other positions and capacities.

Above all, Fred loved his wife of 68 years, Saundra, and was an excellent provider and beloved father to his four children. His devotion to his family and his service to his church and his community set the highest standard and will be proudly carried on by the generations that follow him.

He is survived by wife Saundra Wnorowski; children: Jill Wilson, (Pat), Ted Rusky, (Tracy), and Lori Fojtasek, (David); his ten grandchildren: Lauren Villarreal, Nicholas Wilson (Amanda), Alex Rusky, Ashley Smith, (Billy), Andy Dansby, Jordan Jasnocha (Zach), Camryn McIntyre, Chelsea Polinsky (Corey), Hailee Smith (Garrett), and Pierson Fojtasek; his ten great grandchildren: Jacob and Emma Villarreal, Reagan, Taylor, and Sam Wilson, Robin Jasnocha, Haze and Hollis Conner and Wyatt and Elliott Smith as well as many other extended family, church family and a host of friends.

Obituary: Click here

Robert “Bob” Claar

March 1943 – September 2022

Robert (Bob) C. Claar U.S.N.R (retired) of Murphy, Texas was taken into the arms of Jesus on September 10, 2022.

Bob was born in Waco, Texas, moved to Dallas with his parents, then moved to Moriarty, New Mexico. Bob's parents owned a curio store and gas station called The Hitching Post on Old Route 66.

In 1961, Bob graduated from the New Mexico Military Institute and then went on to the University of New Mexico where he received his bachelor's degree in 1965, and later an MBA from the University of Dallas in 1982.

In 1965, Bob was commissioned as an officer in the U.S. Navy, serving as both a line officer and then a supply officer. Bob served seven campaigns in Vietnam on the USS White River LSMR-536 and was stationed in Japan at two separate times. Once U.S involvement in Vietnam ended, he returned to the States and settled in the DFW area. He continued to serve in the U.S. Naval Reserve until 1993, when he retired at the rank of Commander.

Returning to the civilian world, Bob worked as a materials manager for Hunt Tools until 1986. He then made a career move to work for Raytheon (formerly E-Systems) in Greenville, TX, then relocated to the Raytheon – Garland location, where he retired as Senior Contracts Manager in 2006.

Bob was a devoted husband to his wife of thirty-eight years, Patti. Bob and Patti would often explore the U.S. in their RV, as well as taking many cruises together exploring different countries in Europe and the Mediterranean.

Bob was a father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend. He loved his large family, and loved his Labrador Retriever, Tucker. Those closest to Bob knew he loved to sing Karaoke–especially Elvis Presley and going as far as to devoting a room in his house to the legend. He loved working on his many home projects and loved meeting people wherever he went, never knowing a stranger. His heart was full of joy and love for everyone in his life, but his love for the Lord was never pushed aside.

He loved the Lord and faithfully served at Christ Church, Anglican, located in Plano, for thirty-five years until his illness prevented his service there. Bob was surrounded by his family when he passed.

Bob is survived by his loving wife Patricia (Patti) Claar; children Debbie Gurley (Tom), Brittany Claar de Gonzalez (Andres'), Bobbi Quigley (Cort), Britainy Goss, Ashley Moody, Shane Goss; grandchildren, Austin Gurley, Brennon Gurley (Demi), Conner Gurley, Drew Gurley, Addison, Melissa and Cristiano Gonzalez, Emmerson and Briston Quigley, Cecilia Goss, Nicholas, Ryder and Samuel Moody, Aiden and Brady Goss; great-grandchildren Tatum and Easton Gurley and numerous nephews and nieces. He was preceded in death by his mother and father, Joan and John Claar, sister Linda, and many other siblings. He was loved and will be greatly missed.

If desired, contributions may be made in Bob's name to the discretionary fund at his beloved Christ Church-Anglican, 4550 Legacy Drive, Plano, Texas 75024, or to the Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation at www.pulmonaryfibrosis.org, or mail to: Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation, 230 E. Ohio St., Suite 500, Chicago, Illinois, 60611.

Obituary: Click here

Ed Redwine

December 1939 – September 2022

EDWINE, Edward Edward William Redwine passed away at his home in Dallas on Friday, September 9, 2022. Visitation will be held from 1:00 to 2:00 on Saturday, September 17, 2022 at Griffin-Roughton Funeral Home in Fairfield, Texas followed by the funeral service at 2:00pm. Interment at the Bonner Cemetery will be immediately following the service. A pre-funeral reception will be held on Friday, September 16 at 1:00pm at the United Disciples Christian Church in Richardson, Texas.

Edward was born on December 13, 1939 in Decatur, Texas to Lorene (Doyle) Redwine and Robert Lafayette Redwine. Shortly after his birth, the family moved to Oak Cliff in Dallas, Texas. There, he attended Margaret B. Henderson Elementary School, Greiner Middle School, and Adamson High School. Ed also maintained a group of friends who went to Sunset High School due to a boundary change. He graduated from Arlington State College (future University of Texas at Arlington) with a bachelor's degree in Mathematics. He then attended North Texas State University, where he earned a master's degree in Mathematics.

Ed enjoyed a long and successful career as a software engineer at LTV/E-Systems/Raytheon, where he worked on highly classified software programs. He and Mary Sue were on the initial team that delivered & installed the first software/firmware/hardware system at the Joint Defense Space Research Facility in Alice Springs, Australia in 1972.

He retired from Raytheon in 2009 after 45 years of service. Ed went to work for LTV in 1964 and met Mary Sue. They dated for 14 years and married in 1980 in the Presbyterian Church in Fairfield. They bought a historic home in the Highland Park neighborhood of Dallas and relocated there in 1990. They were married for 42 years, working at E-Systems together as software engineers, spending their time side by side, and collaborating on all facets of life. Ed, along with Mary Sue, was a member of the Raytheon Retirees Association, Southwest Cattle Raisers Association, Texas Farm Bureau, Trinity Star Arts Council, and the Sheriff's Association of Texas.

In his youth, Ed enjoyed racing his car at the Cedar Hill drag strip. He liked working on cars, and he could name the make and model of almost any classic car spotted on the street. His favorite car was the British green Austin-Healey bug-eyed Sprite and when it was stolen, he and Mary Sue went all over the area searching for it.

While his nephew, Eric, was growing up, Ed loved taking him on various fishing adventures around the state. Ed and Mary Sue enjoyed a variety of activities throughout the years, including tennis, square dancing at the C3B level and working on the C4 level (the black belt of square dancing), the Sunday New York Times crossword puzzle, and farming. Ed never tired of helping Mary Sue manage her family farm in Stewards Mill, walking the pastures, looking for lost cows, and mending fences. He was the number one fan and unofficial photographer of Mary Sue's Class Act Tap Company senior performing tap group, and he was always there helping with the many rehearsals and performances for the past 36 years. Ed and Mary Sue maintained a Thursday night supper club tradition for 17 years at Aboca's restaurant, where Ed was nicknamed "Mr. Stud Muffin" by the owner. Ed enjoyed sharing his wife's strong Bonner family ties and community ties, supporting her in her dedication to family events and traditions, always attending the Bonner family reunions, the Bonner Cemetery annual meeting, the Stewards Mill Homecoming, the TSACand farm bureau events in Fairfield, and, when schedule permitted, the Christmas program at the Stewards Mill church. They continued to maintain the family farm house in Stewards Mill where Mary Sue's grandparents lived.

Ed was preceded in death by his parents and by his uncles, Willmon Edward Doyle and William Vincent Doyle. He is survived by his wife, Mary Sue Thornton; sister, Mary Geneva (Redwine) Trammell; nephew, Eric Wilbur Trammell; and Eric's family (wife, Tays Oliveira Trammell; son, William Fonseca Trammell; and daughters Emily Fonseca Trammell and Anna Oliveira Trammell)

Obituary: Click here

Ron Brown

May 10, 1932 – September 26, 2022

Ronald George (Ron) Brown went to be with his Savior and Lord Jesus Christ on September 26, 2022, at the age of 90 after a short illness.

Ron was a decorated veteran of the Korean War, was a retired engineer for E-Systems in Garland, farmed, hunted, fished, sang, traveled, and studied ancestry.

Obituary: Click here

Sherrie Wier

June 1944 - September 2022

Sherrie Weir was born June 11, 1944 in McKinney, Texas and passed away on September 28, 2022 in Dallas, Texas at the age of 78 after a long battle with cancer.

A family visitation will be held on Sunday, October 2, 2022 from 4:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m. at the Turrentine-Jackson- Morrow Funeral Home, 2525 Central Expressway North, Allen, Texas 75013.

A funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m., Monday, October 3, 2022 at McDermott Road Church of Christ, 3600 McDermott Road, Plano, Texas 75025. Interment is to follow at the Ridgeview Memorial Park, 2525 Central Expressway North, Allen, Texas 75013.

Amanda Garner

September 8, 1950 - October 16, 2022

Amanda Frances Garner, age 72, of Fate, TX, passed away October 16, 2022. She was born September 8, 1950, in Newport News, VA, to Frances Virginia (Moore) and William Homer Brown, Jr. Amanda was a strong and determined woman who loved life. She met and married, handsome air force guy Mike Garner. They moved to Texas, where they raised two very successful daughters. Amanda was extremely loyal to her country and job at Raytheon where she met many friends along the way. She received several achievement awards for her work in the C3I Corporate Supply Chain and received her Six Sigma Specialist Qualification in 2002. Her children and her grandchildren were life! She will be dearly missed and her kindness will forever be remembered.

Amanda is survived by her daughters: Amy Conner and husband Kevin and Natalie Harper; grandchildren: Wyatt, Cody, and Lydia; brother: William “Bill” Homer Brown III and wife Susan. She was preceded in death by her husband: Mike Garner; parents: Frances and William Brown; and son-in-law: Ron Harper.

Obituary: Click here

Richard Barrett

February 12, 1948 – October 4, 2022

His family always joked that he would have 9 lives, because despite surviving a war, a plane crash (as a passenger), a motorcycle accident, falling off of a roof holding a running chainsaw, cancer, a 15 foot fall in his own backyard, and many other death-defying mishaps, Richard Lee Barrett Sr passed away very suddenly in his doctor’s office in Dallas on October 4, 2022.

He is survived by his wife, Pamela Jean Barrett, sons Richard L. Barrett Jr (Ricky), Jeffrey Barrett and his wife Mindy, daughter Nicole (Nikki) and her fiancée Darren Kaats, bonus son Nick, bonus daughter Jessica, nephew Aleksander Josephson and four amazing grandchildren Reser (18), Justice (17), Piper (17), and Jack (15). He was preceded in death by his parents Leland S. and Marie Cortsen Barrett, twin brothers Scott and Joseph Barrett, and his first wife, Nancy Chavern Barrett (1948-2010).

Born February 12, 1948, in Salt Lake City, Utah, he spent his childhood in Utah, Texas, and California. Rick graduated from Fremont High School in Sunnyvale, CA in 1966 and went on to the University of Utah where he graduated with a BS in Physics in 1970. Later, he continued his education with an MS Business from University of Northern Colorado in 1982 and further graduate work in Remote Sensing and Geospatial Information Sciences at the University of Texas at Dallas from 2006-2009. It was at University of Utah where he met his first wife Nancy and where he was a resident advisor in the dorms. He convinced Nancy to go on a date with him by finding her misplaced meal card and offering to give it back over dinner. It must have worked, because Rick and Nancy were married August 29, 1970, and stayed happily married for 40 years, had 3 children together (Ricky, Jeff, and Nikki) and were separated by her death in 2010. After graduating in 1970 he joined the United States Air Force and served in the Vietnam War flying fighter jets while stationed in Thailand. After retiring from active duty in 1983, he moved his young family (Nancy, Ricky, Jeff and Nikki) to Dallas, TX to begin his career as Sr. Principal Systems engineer at E-Systems (now Raytheon). But his long career in Dallas involved more than engineering. Rick had a passion for education and taught Computer Science classes at Richland College and Southern Methodist University. Once he retired from Raytheon in 2013, he began his own company, Richard Barrett Productions. Nancy passed away in 2010 and he met his beloved Pam in January 2018. They were married October 7, 2018, in a ceremony in Dallas and Pam joined the Barrett family with her son Nick and daughter Jessica along with her loving sisters, brothers, nieces, nephews, in-laws and other family. As they met and married late in life, Rick and Pam opted to celebrate their anniversary on the 7th of every month, rather than annually. They had 47 beautiful anniversaries together. Ricky, Jeff and Nikki are incredibly grateful to Pam for loving their dad and making him so happy in his final years.

Rick loved his years as a fighter pilot. He would say that there are 3 types of pilots: 1) a pilot where the plane is a natural extension of the body, 2) a pilot who understands the physics of how and why it all works and 3) people who shouldn’t be flying. Rick regarded himself as in the second category. Being a pilot wasn’t a lifelong dream, but rather a stroke of luck as he was drafted for the Vietnam war just as he was completing his degree in Physics at U of U. Though originally drafted by the Army, he approached the US Air Force with his Physics degree and applied to be a pilot. He was quickly entered into the pilot training, graduated the USAF Undergraduate Pilot Training in 1971 and was awarded his wings in February 1972. He stayed with the Air Force after the war stationing in Nevada, New Mexico and Arizona, flying jets all over the world. He retired from active duty in 1983 and remained on in the reserves until 1999 when he retired as a Lieutenant Colonel. He was an active part of a lifelong brotherhood of USAF pilots and will be greatly missed by them. Many responding to the news with “Nickel” which is a reference to “Throw a nickel in the grass. Save a fighter pilot’s ass” and is a tribute to a fallen pilot.

There is no possible way to list all of the beloved friends and family that Rick touched with his generosity and adventurous spirit. Those who knew him can attest that he was an engineer to his core. There was literally nothing that he wouldn’t attempt to fix, with many of these adventures leading to one of the mishaps mentioned above. So much sothat when his daughter Nikki had to hire a plumber, said plumber was in absolute awe of the innovative sink installation remarking, “Who the hell did this to you?” His home projects often defied logic, such as a guest bathroom with a glass door. While it may have defied logic, Rick’s design ideas were also endlessly entertaining to his family. Jokes aside, quirky and endearing and freakishly smart, he was always there to help a friend in need. There was no project too big or small that the infallible Rick Barrett wouldn’t take on to help make someone’s life better.

His interests were endless. He trained for a marathon, taught swim lessons, competed in triathlons, did hot yoga, loved museums and music and the arts in general. And he was always keenly interested in whatever his kids and grandkids were into as well. He attended many concerts and plays at his grandkids’ schools over the years. He and Pam loved the arts and were Gold Stradivarius Patron members of the Dallas Symphony Orchestra and frequented shows at Broadway Dallas with their season tickets. They were members of the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden with a special flower bed dedicated from Rick to Pam. They enjoyed many concerts on the Arboretum grounds as well and could be found dancing at their table. He and Pam loved traveling the world together, setting a goal of 2 trips per month to beautiful and interesting destinations like Hawaii, Italy, New York, Las Vegas, Napa Valley, and the list goes on. Second to Pam, some of his favorite travel buddies were his kids and his grandkids. At 74 years of age, this man had limitless energy for theme parks at Disneyworld and Universal Studios. And he did so in his signature neon T-shirts so that he’d be easy to find in the crowd. He lovingly gifted the joy of travel to everyone he loved. In fact, as a true renaissance man, he loved sharing all of his interests with everyone he loved. He is so incredibly missed.

• University of Utah Physics Scholarship Fund
• Dallas Symphony Foundation
• Dallas Museum of Art Annual Fund
• Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden

Obituary: Click here

Bill McCoy

June 1938 - October 21, 2022

William "Bill" D. McCoy of Wylie, Texas passed away peacefully on Friday October 21, 2022. Bill was born in Tecumseh, Oklahoma. His parents are the late Will Lee and Naomi Bickham McCoy. Bill grew up in Oklahoma and after graduating high school he joined the United States Navy. While serving in the Navy he was stationed overseas and upon his return and being honorably discharged he attended and received his Bachelor of Science from the University of Texas at Arlington. Bill was hardworking and enjoyed learning.

Bill met the love of his life, Laura Jones, and they married on December 7, 1963. Not long after their marriage Bill went to work at ESystems where he was an electrical engineer on numerous projects. People who knew and worked with him stated he was a man of integrity and able to work through complex problems. He retired from Raytheon.

Bill enjoyed outdoor activities. He fished, hunted, camped and gardened. Bill had enjoyed riding his motorcycle as a means of unwinding. Bill treasured his time with family most of all. He was a man of many talents and could work on just about anything: cars, plumbing, electrical work and even welding.

Surviving Bill is his son Ted McCoy; sisters, Marlene Smith,and granddaughter, Naomi M. McCoy and grandson, William A. McCoy. He is also survived numerous nieces, nephews and friends. Bill is preceded in death by his parents, wife Laura, brothers, Keith McCoy and Nolan MCCoy and sisters Carolynn Earls and Lavonne Bivens

Obituary: Click here

Announcements

October was the cut off for medical reimbursement claims for 2021 claims. Retirees are continuing to have problems.

From Christine Berry

Just passing on an email I received regarding the chairs for 35+ years retirees…

I will be your contact person at Standard Chair from now on.
To process this order, we need a purchase order from Raytheon.
About a month ago, I took over the task of organizing and processing all Raytheon retiree orders.
We were able to obtain a primary contact to receive purchase orders.
Your order is on Summary B2. We are currently waiting on a PO for Summary B1.
Once I receive the PO, your order will be processed, and you will be assigned a ship date.
If you do not hear from me by September 23, 2022, with your ship date please contact me.
Our standard shipping once we receive the purchase order is 4-6 weeks.
Please know I’m working diligently to process and ship over 500 in-house Raytheon retiree orders.
We apologize for the delay and any inconvenience this has caused.
**We have processed and received ship dates for 100s of retirees.
**If you know a retiree that has been waiting for their chair and hasn’t received any information, please give them my contact information.
Thank you,

Suzanne Pelkey, Customer Service Representative
Standard Chair of Gardner Inc
One S Main Street Gardner, MA 01440
978-632-1301 Phone
978-632-1345 Fax
Suzannep@standardchair.com

Eileen continues to collect eye glasses and hearing aids for donation to the Lion’s Club. Thank you all who have donated.

Note – several members brought old sets of eyeglasses to the September meeting. Terry gathered them and later coordinated a hand-off to Eileen in early October

Eileen Wahlstrom

E-SYSTEMS/RAYTHEON RETIREES LUNCH GROUP

By Eileen Wahlstrom

July 27 – August 31 2022

Present: 23, 20

First Time: John Montgomery, Alvin Rauschhuber - July/ Phil Bedford - August

Long Time: Norm Dixon - July/ Cheryl Martin - August

Guests: None

SICKNESS:

Chris Ebling

Chris Ebling finished his last day of at-home PT, and moves on next week to the outpatient day therapy program, with us driving several days each week to Baylor Rehab in Dallas. He is making some good progress with movements, range of motion, and strength. Many other health issues can arise with a Spinal Cord Injury, and so far he is staying in great overall health. He is ready to roll on to the next stage, back at the gym.

Do you notice he initialed his own discharge report on the tablet?? Look at that smile!!

Thanks to the best PT and OT gals ever, Amy and Laura with Baylor Home Health. They have been faithful and encouraging partners. And they only cried just a bit when they left today. He always charms the ladies.

Bobby Gambrell: Wife Carolyn She has been hospitalized with heart problems for over a month now.

Hi, Carolyn can have visitors now Room # 314A. Please call 214 335 8130 to make sure she's in and not in therapy.

Beacon Harber 6700 Heritage Pkwy Rowlett 75087

Mucho Thanks,
Bobby G

Jesse Gilbert:

AUGUST 18th: Y'all say a prayer for my Uncle Jess please. He had heart surgery yesterday so he is on the road to recovery. This is my Papa Sam's brother but he is like my 2nd grandpa and the closest thing on this Earth to my Papa. I cherish this man with every ounce of my being. I love you so so much Uncle Jess! We're going to get you better. I'll make sure of it!

UPDATE AUGUST 28th: Just an update on the old codger: I went to town today, lunch at El Tapatio, Walmart (had to stop and rest 3 times while inside - 5 minutes in PU with AC on before my next stop). Stopped by the VA to discuss my prescription - no resolution. Stopped by State Farm to check on latest assessment of the damage to my property back in May - did not hear good news. Bought gas for my mower. Mailed a copy of my latest book to a friend in Dallas. Returned home and took part of my merchandise from Walmart into the house. Seems like I'm breathing through my left ear? Will rest a couple more hours and bring in rest of Walmart buy and put PU in the garage. "Time" has caught up with the old codger! Doctor says it may take a couple of months to dissolve the blood clots in my lungs and left leg. So, I carry on as best I can - but at a very slow pace!

Larry and Judy Judd Larry recently had a heart ablation performed. He is doing well. Judy was not feeling very good but it turns out her diabetic meds needed adjusting.

Bertha Hall : Recently celebrated her 92nd birthday and she reports that she has had to slow down a little!

Mickey Wahlstrom Had an emergency appendectomy on August 24th. Doctor’s orders to take it easy for three weeks. He’s getting better and antsy!

Deaths

Ron Pearson

1939-2022

Ron Son of Helen and Howard Pearson, Ronal Edward Pearson was born in Hampton, Tennessee, on October 3, 1939, and, after a brave fight against lung cancer, peacefully went to his eternal reward on June 24, 2022. His early years saw their challenges: the Great Depression, WWII, and poverty in pre-electrification East Tennessee. While his father fought in Europe, his mother worked in an ammunition factory, and he lived with his grandparents in a shared room on a farm. Perhaps because of the turbulence of that early environment, as an adult he demonstrated a remarkable level of reliability and stability. His entire life, he was a rock for family and friends.

At age 18, he enlisted in the Air Force. He served as a missile technician and was on silo duty during the Cuban Missile Crisis. Upon completion of his service, he paid for college using the GI Bill, and graduated with a degree in Electrical Engineering from the University of Tennessee. He was the first in his immediate family to graduate from college.

He then joined a defense technology firm that would eventually become part of Raytheon, a job he would have until retirement nearly 40 years later. He focused on the design and system engineering of top-secret computer mapping systems that served military aviation and intelligence agencies. While he chafed at the administrative requirements of government contracting, he was proud to be part of a team building new technologies and protecting his country.

His faith was deep, but not showy. He prayed silently and believed that the "Man Upstairs" just wants us to be honest and treat others with kindness. When we saw someone in unfortunate circumstances, he told us that "there but for the Grace of God go I." If we had reason to be angry with someone, he reminded us that "we are all God's children." He grew up with a love for hunting and was a proficient shot.

Later in life, he returned to his childhood passion and became an accomplished "single-action shooter," competing in numerous contests around the nation under the nom de guerre "Tennessee Star." One of his deepest regrets upon getting sick was that he would no longer be able to shoot competitively.

His other great passion was cars, particularly Corvettes. He rebuilt one (as well as a vintage MG) in the family garage, which was lined with tools and Chilton repair manuals. He loved the logic of putting things together and engineering high performance from raw materials. He also loved all kinds of racing, whether top fuel drag racers or NASCAR, and every Memorial Day weekend he could be found watching the Indianapolis 500.

He was slow to anger, never raising his voice, but quick to laugh. When he disagreed with you, he would be a quiet but firm voice of reason. He could say a great deal with the raise of an eyebrow.

He was preceded in death by his wife of 40 years, Diane, and is survived by his children, Jessica and Travis, his daughter-in-law Lisa Pearson, and his five grandchildren, Pearson and Hudson Pillsbury of Plano, and Audrey, Elle, and Grant Pearson of San Francisco. Our Pop Pop, our Superstar, you fought the good fight, you finished the race, you kept the faith. You will always be loved, remembered, and missed. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the American Cancer Society.

Obituary: Click here

Carol Gangstead

1952-2022

(From Stacey and Steven)

Hello friends of Carol. With great sadness, we’re writing to announce that our mom passed away unexpectedly on July 29th at the end of her Alaskan adventure. Our thanks to all of you for contributing to the love and friendships that meant so much to her throughout her life. We’ll always miss her dearly. We are working through the process of getting Facebook to memorialize her page.

We’re hosting a Celebration of Life for her at the SpringPark clubhouse on Saturday August 13, 2022 from 2-5pm. It will be come and go to visit with friends and family and share your best Carol stories. If you have any questions please contact us.

Steven Gangstead and Stacey Gangstead Richardson

Thomas Swank

1981-2022

We have lost a young Raytheon engineer far too soon. Thomas Swank passed away unexpectedly last week after complications from a final surgery to remove the last of a tumor. He had only found out about the tumor this past October, just after his 40th birthday.

I asked his sister if I could share her post from his Facebook page (with the obituary and funeral service) to this group since many of you probably worked with him (or his mother Sherry) or he worked for you. Thomas worked for me on my team when he was fresh out of college (Texas Tech - MY college too). He always loved that we had that in common and we’d talk about Tech and Lubbock a lot. I was a mentor to him as he learned the ropes at work and he always knew he could vent to me. I worked with his mother, Sherry as well. He also worked for my husband (Rusty) over the years at some point, and then he worked with my son when HE started working at Raytheon. Thomas was a very smart, nice, and funny young man.

Raytheon has lost a smart, dedicated engineer. We have lost a good co-worker and even more, a good friend

We should Appreciate our retirement and respect our age. Some, like Thomas, will never get that chance.

Rest In Peace Thomas

Here is what JENNY SWANK (his sister) said on Thomas’s FB page

To all of our friends, families, and meaningful acquaintances:

It is with immense grief and sorrow that I share my brother’s obituary with you all. We have all been so incredibly blessed to have had him touch our lives in the ways only he could. There are so many more thoughts, feelings, and memories I want to share in honor of Tommy’s life, and in time I will. Please join us as we grieve, honor, and celebrate his life

I encourage all of you to take care of yourselves and each other as we find our way through such an unreal and tragic loss. I love you, Tommy

OBITUARY:

Thomas Benjamin Swank of Plano, Texas passed away Friday, July 1, 2022. Thomas was born October 11, 1981 in Topeka, Kansas and moved to Plano, Texas with his family in August 1984. As a child he showed interest in computers and building Lego structures. He attended PISD schools for elementary and secondary education, graduating from Plano East High School in 2000. At PESH he excelled in Advanced Placement (AP) courses and the PESH band. He took his acquired skills in Math, Science and Music to Texas Tech University where he majored in Computer Engineering and participated in the “Goin’ Band From Raider Land” marching band. Thomas graduated in 2004 with university and department honors and immediately went to work for Raytheon where he was still employed as a Software Technical Lead at the time of his death.

Thomas had a keen mind and outstanding memory. He loved sports and could recite player information of his favorite teams, past and present: the Kansas University basketball teams, Texas Tech football, basketball, and baseball teams, Kansas City Chiefs, Texas Rangers, and Dallas Mavericks, as well as other teams and players. He enjoyed attending games with family and friends.

Thomas was a product of two states having been born in Kansas and living most of his life in Plano. He kept close contact and relationship with his relatives in Kansas and friendships in Texas. He is survived by his parents, Gregory (Gregg) Howard and Sherri Lin (King) Swank of Plano, his sister, Jennifer Leann Swank of Bourbonnais, Illinois, his grandmothers, Beverly Jean (Bardsley) Peaslee of Plano and Sharon King of Topeka, and many aunts, uncles, and cousins.

Thomas was a kind, gentle, loving child and young man with a sensitive and compassionate soul, who took pride in the work he did to strengthen his nation’s defense, who loved his God, his country, his state, and his family and friends. He was loved and is missed.

A funeral service will be held at 10:00 a.m., July 8, 2022 at Custer Road United Methodist Church, 6601 Custer Road, Plano, Texas 75023. Following the service a procession will make its way to Ridgeview Memorial Park in Allen, Texas for interment.

Donations in Memory of Thomas may be made to the University of Texas Tech “Whitacre College of Engineering Fund for Excellence

Obituary: Click here

Announcements

From Christine Berry

Just passing on an email I received regarding the chairs for 35+ years retirees…

I will be your contact person at Standard Chair from now on.
To process this order, we need a purchase order from Raytheon.
About a month ago, I took over the task of organizing and processing all Raytheon retiree orders.
We were able to obtain a primary contact to receive purchase orders.
Your order is on Summary B2. We are currently waiting on a PO for Summary B1.
Once I receive the PO, your order will be processed, and you will be assigned a ship date.
If you do not hear from me by September 23, 2022, with your ship date please contact me.
Our standard shipping once we receive the purchase order is 4-6 weeks.
Please know I’m working diligently to process and ship over 500 in-house Raytheon retiree orders.
We apologize for the delay and any inconvenience this has caused.
**We have processed and received ship dates for 100s of retirees.
**If you know a retiree that has been waiting for their chair and hasn’t received any information, please give them my contact information.
Thank you,

Suzanne Pelkey, Customer Service Representative
Standard Chair of Gardner Inc
One S Main Street Gardner, MA 01440
978-632-1301 Phone
978-632-1345 Fax
Suzannep@standardchair.com

Eileen Wahlstrom

  Submit your Garland ESY/Raytheon stories now!!

E-SYSTEMS/RAYTHEON RETIREES LUNCH GROUP

By Eileen Wahlstrom

April 27/ May 25/ June 29, 2022

Present: 44/28/31

First Time: Bret Bowling, Tom Longo/None in May/ June - Debbie Reese, Gene Chapman

Long Time: None in April or May/ June - Minyonne Toumbs, Joe Cox, Mary Ellen Myers, Ken Garner

Guests: Jim Frame (speaker), Alice Bowling, Brenda Prachyl (w/ Dottie)/ None in May/ June-Ken Garner’s Wife?

SICKNESS:

None reported.

Deaths

Bruce King

April 18,2022

From Bea King: On April 18, 2022, Bruce King passed from this life to the arms of his Savior. He fought a long battle with cancer, Covid and pneumonia and was doing well until Saturday when his lungs filled with fluid and he was having to fight for every breath. He was on oxygen but the lungs couldn’t absorb it. His heart eventually gave out. We will have a memorial service on Saturday, April 23 at 2:00 p.m. in the First Baptist Church of Poolville.

Carl Griffin Jr.

August 1924 – August 2021

GRIFFIN, JR., Carl A. Carl Alva Griffin, Jr., was born on August 22, 1924, to Carl and Ruby Griffin in Forney, Texas. He passed away on Monday, August 9, 2021. He was raised in the South Oak Cliff area and attended Sunset High School. As soon as he graduated, he joined the US Marines and served in World War II in the Pacific Islands. Upon his return to the US after the war, he met and married the love of his life, Zonnie. They were married 68 years and raised four children in Mesquite, Texas. He was a devoted husband and family man who was a living example of Christian discipleship, a quiet man of humility and generosity. He was a member of Tinney Chapel United Methodist Church since he moved to Winnsboro in 1982. He was a mechanical engineer and retired from E Systems/Raytheon Industries with over 45 years of service. He spent the last forty years as a part-time rancher and old car enthusiast enjoying life in Winnsboro. He was an active member of Autumn Trails Model A club and the Lazy 8s V8 club. He is survived by his four children, Marc Griffin and his wife, Judy of Plano; Marsha Griffin and her husband, Michael Seifert of Brownsville; Marcella Salter of Winnsboro and Marilyn Ballem of Mineola. He was the beloved grandfather of 8 grandchildren, 15 great grandchildren and two great great granddaughters. He was preceded in death by his wife, Zonnie; his parents and sister, Doris Crow. A visitation will be held from 12:00 to 1:00 p.m., Saturday, August 14, 2021 at Beaty Funeral Home in Winnsboro, Texas. The funeral will follow the visitation beginning at 2:00 p.m. Interment will be at Lee Cemetery in Winnsboro where Carl will rest beside his beloved Zonnie.

Obituary: Click here

Mary Lou Carnes

March 18,2019

My mother was employed at Raytheon and retired after 43 years in 2000. She was an inspector and loved her job. She was a member of the woman's club and was very active with this group. She passed away 3/18/2019 age 86. Natural causes. I'm her daughter Kathryn Traylor.

Jan Bunch (Wife of Carrol Bunch)

April 10, 2022

Passed away from Pancreatic cancer April 10, 2022.

Don Chappell

1939 – May 15, 2022

James Donald Chappell, age 82, of Texarkana, TX. formerly of Terrell, TX. passed away on Sunday, May 15, 2022. Don was born September 2, 1939 in Texarkana, AR. Graduated from Arkansas High School in 1957. Graduated from Texarkana Community College and attended the University of Alabama. Don received his honorable discharge from the United States Marine Corp. He started in radio-tv production at KTAL-TV in Texarkana and Shreveport. Later in life he became a photo journalist working with NASA, KDFW-TV in Dallas, TX. for eighteen years. Don received numerous awards for his work at KDFW-TV. He left the television industry to enter the corporate world as a photo journalist for E-systems/Raytheon in Garland, TX. for over twenty years. His work was highly regarded and traveled the world working for them. In 2010 he retired to his farm in Terrell, TX. and later in 2019 moved back home to Texarkana where he started volunteering at Christus St.Michael Hospital until he passed away.

Funeral service was 2:00 P.M. Friday, May 20, 2022 at East Funeral Home-Moores Lane with Rev. Freddie Burden officiating. Burial to follow in Hillcrest Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be left at St. Jude's Children's Hospital or Wounded Warriors Project

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

Neal Hodge

June 14, 2022

Neal passed away June 14, 2022 in Fort Worth. He was born April 14, 1933 in Memphis, Texas to Cecil Holt. Sr. and Clara Lou Neal Hodge. Neal married Audrey Aliene Willis on July 9, 1953 in Dallas. Neal was a parts crib manager in the electrical industry for over 42 years. He was of the Baptist faith and a member of Masonic Lodge #90 in Waxahachie. Neal served in the U.S. Army.

Neal is survived by his wife of 68 years, Audrey Hodge of Cleburne; children; Warren Terry Hodge and Lisa Thompson of Alma, Arkansas, Jeffery Alan Hodge and wife Mary Ann of Rowlett; grandchildren, Kimberly Hodge, Bethany Barnes, Terry, Jr. Hodge, Jason Hodge, Laurie Rollins, Margo Bristow, Sam Hodge; 17 great-grandchildren; 8 great-great-grandchildren; brother, James Robert Hodge of Okolona, Arkansas and numerous nieces and nephews.

Neal is preceded in death by his son, Gregory Paul Hodge in 1959; sisters, Sherrell Hodge, Joyce McCrary; brother, Cecil Holt Hodge, Jr. and granddaughter Janea Barry

Memorials may be made to Shriners Children’s Hospital in Dallas

Obituary: Click here

Announcements

The note below was posted on Facebook and refers to a Rocking Chair for retirees retroactive to January 2020 with 35+ years of service. If you qualify…read below!

Benefits Administrator Change

This info was posted on our Facebook group.

Alight has a benefits "Gateway" website that will be used for benefits administration. If you haven’t created an account yet you can use this link to do so, (https://rtxhealthyyou.com/enrollment-2"). The instructions indicate to go to www.yourtotalrewards.com/rtx and select "New user?". The "New user?" selection links to a couple of identifying questions and then steps you through the account setup. It recognized me and I was able to set up my account so I could create my profile and preferences. There’s also an online chat feature to talk with a benefits representative and find out additional details about benefits changes. They had my old employee email address in my profile and I had to call Alight to get that corrected (800-243-8135). Be sure to check your beneficiary information. This was blank for me so I corrected that.

Alight will manage the medical reimbursement and (if it works like intended) we will be able to check our DDB balance, submit claims, authorize direct deposit, etc. online.

RTX is also moving the 401K administration from Fidelity to Alight. The 401K change to Alight will not impact you if you've rolled over your 401K to personal IRA. www.yourtotalrewards.com

IF YOU NEED HELP SETTING UP YOUR ALIGHT ACCOUNT, REIMBURSEMENT CLAIMS, DIRECT DEPOSIT, ETC. PLEASE EMAIL ME AT emmawahlstrom@aol.com. TERRY GAUS HAS OFFERED TO HELP THE RETIREES WHO MAY HAVE QUESTIONS. I CAN ALSO HELP NAVIGATE THE SWAMP IF YOU NEED ASSISTANCE.

My Back Porch

On the first day, God created the dog and said, "Sit all day by the door of your house and bark at anyone who comes in or walks past. For this, I will give you a life span of twenty years."

The dog said, "That's a long time to be barking. How about only ten years and I'll give you back the other ten?"

And God saw it was good.

On the second day, God created the monkey and said, "Entertain people, do tricks, and make them laugh. For this, I'll give you a twenty-year life span."

The monkey said, "Monkey tricks for twenty years? That's a pretty long time to perform. How about I give you back ten like the dog did?"

And God, again saw it was good.

On the third day, God created the cow and said, "You must go into the field with the farmer all day long and suffer under the sun, have calves and give milk to support the farmer's family. For this, I will give you a life span of sixty years."

The cow said, "That's kind of a tough life you want me to live for sixty years. How about twenty and I'll give back the other forty?"

And God agreed it was good.

On the fourth day, God created humans and said, "Eat, sleep, play, marry and enjoy your life. For this, I'll give you twenty years."

But the human said, "Only twenty years? Could you possibly give me my twenty, the forty the cow gave back,

the ten the monkey gave back,

and the ten the dog gave back; that makes eighty, okay?"

"Okay," said God, "You asked for it."

So that is why for our first twenty years, we eat, sleep, play and enjoy ourselves.

For the next forty years, we slave in the sun to support our family.

For the next ten years, we do monkey tricks to entertain the grandchildren.

And for the last ten years, we sit on the front porch and bark at everyone.

Life has now been explained to you.

There is no need to thank me for this valuable information.

I'm doing it as a public service.

If you are looking for me I will be on the front porch...

Eileen Wahlstrom

  Submit your Garland ESY/Raytheon stories now!!

E-SYSTEMS/RAYTHEON RETIREES LUNCH GROUP

By Eileen Wahlstrom

March 30, 2022

Present: 28

First Time: Gary Hunt, David Sokatch, Robert Clarkson, Mary Ann Cordova, Larry Wadsworth

Long Time: Kevin Tensley, Al Walker

Guests: 0

SICKNESS:

Bruce King is still getting treatment for his cancer.

Deaths

Phillip Joe Harrison

January 1953 – March 16, 2022j

iPhillip Joe Harrison, 69, of Greenville, Texas passed away surrounded by family on March 16, 2022. Phillip was born in Paris, Texas to Van Buren Harrison and Edna Mae McGee on January 18, 1953. Phillip, also known as “Joe”, “Dad”, “Phil”, “Poppy”, “Wild Man” and “Pop” married the love of his life, Kenda, in 1974 and spent the next 47 years loving her unconditionally. He was a loving family man and a wonderful father and grandfather who not only raised his own family but also took in other children to love and nurture. He loved to play the guitar and was employed at E-Systems/Raytheon/L3 Harris for 46 years.

Phillip is survived by his wife, Kenda; daughters, Kerena Talley, Phylicia McDonald (Thomas) and Andrea Harrison; brother, Terry Harrison; thirteen grandchildren, 11 great grandchildren, and 2 nephews. Phillip was preceded in death by his parents and brother, Ricky Harrison.

The family hosted a Celebration of Life on Monday, March 21, 2022, 2:00 pm, at Top Rails Cowboy Church, 262 Horseman’s Road, Greenville, Texas, 75401. In lieu of flowers, the family request donations be made to your favorite charity.

Obituary: Click here

Jeff Gyorfy

March 11, 2022

Jeff Gyorfy passed away Friday morning, March 11. He was a reliability engineer at the E-Systems Garland Division. There will be a memorial service in Dallas, details to be announced later.

Victor Vitrano

March 14, 2022

From Greg - Vic's son - He passed away last Monday (March 14) from neck cancer that metastasized to his jaw and throat. Like Sandy before him, he didn't want a funeral or a memorial service. He really enjoyed playing golf with the group and talked about it often. Will you please let the group know. Thanks

Announcements

My Back Porch

On the first day, God created the dog and said, "Sit all day by the door of your house and bark at anyone who comes in or walks past. For this, I will give you a life span of twenty years."

The dog said, "That's a long time to be barking. How about only ten years and I'll give you back the other ten?"

And God saw it was good.

On the second day, God created the monkey and said, "Entertain people, do tricks, and make them laugh. For this, I'll give you a twenty-year life span."

The monkey said, "Monkey tricks for twenty years? That's a pretty long time to perform. How about I give you back ten like the dog did?"

And God, again saw it was good.

On the third day, God created the cow and said, "You must go into the field with the farmer all day long and suffer under the sun, have calves and give milk to support the farmer's family. For this, I will give you a life span of sixty years."

The cow said, "That's kind of a tough life you want me to live for sixty years. How about twenty and I'll give back the other forty?"

And God agreed it was good.

On the fourth day, God created humans and said, "Eat, sleep, play, marry and enjoy your life. For this, I'll give you twenty years."

But the human said, "Only twenty years? Could you possibly give me my twenty, the forty the cow gave back,

the ten the monkey gave back,

and the ten the dog gave back; that makes eighty, okay?"

"Okay," said God, "You asked for it."

So that is why for our first twenty years, we eat, sleep, play and enjoy ourselves.

For the next forty years, we slave in the sun to support our family.

For the next ten years, we do monkey tricks to entertain the grandchildren.

And for the last ten years, we sit on the front porch and bark at everyone.

Life has now been explained to you.

There is no need to thank me for this valuable information.

I'm doing it as a public service.

If you are looking for me I will be on the front porch...

Eileen Wahlstrom

  Submit your Garland ESY/Raytheon stories now!!

E-SYSTEMS/RAYTHEON RETIREES LUNCH GROUP

By Eileen Wahlstrom

March 02, 2022

Present: 21

Bobby Walker

Mary Sue Thornton, Ed Redwine, Ken Cobb

None

SICKNESS:

Deaths

Morton Spooner

Jan. 16, 1924-Nov. 27, 2021

Morton Spooner, a former resident of East Aurora, died on Saturday, November 27. He was 97.

Mr. Spooner grew up on an 80-acre dairy farm, outside of Eau Claire, Wis., and was the youngest of a family of six children. On the day of his birth, his father hitched the horse to a sleigh and took his mother seven miles to the hospital.

Mr. Spooner attended a rural two-room school one mile from the farm. He either walked or skied to school. The school was heated by coal, tended by the teacher with water supplied by an outside hand pump. The class had four students. He finished the eighth grade with the highest grades in the rural county.

He went to Eau Claire High School, in a class with 450 students. He milked cows twice per day, working around his studies. He excelled and was the salutatorian of his class.

Shortly after entering the University of Wisconsin, Eau Claire, Pearl Harbor was attacked and plans changed. Mr. Spooner enlisted in the Army Signal Corps and studied electronics in Chicago at the Illinois Institute of Technology. He spent five months at Northwestern University studying Electrical Engineering and radar. His formal enlistment in the Army followed with basic training in Miami Beach then further training in blind bombing radar equipment aboard B-17 bombers. He transferred to England, serving during the Battle of the Bulge in 1944. Months after V-E day, his group boarded the Queen Mary in Glasgow along with 10,000 other troops for the five-day trip to New York to support the invasion of Japan. The two atomic bombs were dropped, Japan surrendered and Mr. Spooner was discharged in November 1945.

Upon discharge from the service, Mr. Spooner enrolled at the University of Wisconsin. He met Nelsine Hanshus, a nursing student. They were married on July 1, 1950.

Mr. Spooner received his Electrical Engineering Ph.D. in 1956 and accepted a position with the Cornell Aeronautical Laboratory (CAL) in Buffalo, owned by Cornell University. He participated in early research in artificial intelligence and teaching computers to read. He was part of a team developing the first automatic fingerprint reader for the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).

Mr. Spooner became vice president of electronics for the company. The Vietnam War came with protests about classified military research programs. As a result, Cornell University terminated its association with CAL.

In 1976, Mr. Spooner joined E-Systems, headquartered in Dallas. He led several top-secret special access proposal efforts engaging in classified advanced computer processing for various US intelligence agencies. He was awarded a Distinguished Service Citation by the University of Wisconsin for his work in electrical and computer engineering.

Mr. Spooner and his family resided in East Aurora, famous for its Roycroft heritage and Fisher-Price toys. Mr. Spooner served on the school board for nine years, serving as president for three years, including when a new high school was built.

Mr. and Mrs. Spooner were active and founding members of Nativity Lutheran Church on Main Street and Mr. Spooner served on the church council when the first chapel was built. They were also founding members of Wood Spring and members of the East Aurora Country Club.

Mr. Spooner was devoted to his wife and children, encouraging education and sports. East Aurora is still the family’s hometown.

Mr. Spooner retired in 1991 and moved to Naples, Fla. There, he played golf and honed duplicate bridge skills with his wife. They even served as bridge directors on 23 international cruises.

In 2003, Mr. and Mrs. Spooner moved into a continuing care facility (CCRC) in St Augustine, Fla. There, they established a duplicate bridge club and Mr. Spooner wrote his autobiography. He discovered that his Norwegian immigrant father changed the family surname from Spone to Spooner.

Mr. and Mrs. Spooner were married for 71 years. During his final illness, Mr. Spooner was comforted by a recitation consisting of a list of his family, beginning with his wife, Nelsine; his four children MarySue, Ted, Shelley, Andy, and their spouses; and his ten grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. Family was his life, his great joy, and his peace. Mr. Spooner was an amazing role model to them all and will be missed by all whom he touched.

Obituary: Click here

Ted Ryden

February 21, 1936 - December 05, 2021

Our Papa - Theodore (Ted) Eugene Ryden, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed into eternity with Jesus on December 5, 2021. He was born on February 21, 1936, in Phoenix, Arizona as the son of Harold and Gretchen Ryden, and brother to Deanna. On August 25, 1960, Ted married the love of his life, Nancy Pauline Huffman. Grandma and Papa remained joyously married for nearly 57 years. Papa missed Grandma since her passing in 2017 more than words can express. Our grandparents' marriage was fruitful, and the legacy they built lives on today.

Ted is survived by his daughter, Kim Dorsett and husband Keith of College Station, Texas, and their two children Cameron and Anna; his son, Brad Ryden and wife Becky of Orlando, Florida, and their four children Alex, Ethan, Audrey, and Eliot; and his daughter, Wendy Aubin and husband Justin of Northlake, Texas, and their daughter Emma.

Papa accepted Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior as a young child and then again, with a stronger understanding of what being "born again" meant, as a young adult. Papa loved his wife, three children, and seven grandchildren (that's us!), and devoted his life to being a witness for Christ. He taught himself Spanish so he could visit and communicate with prisoners and share the Gospel with them. Our grandparents volunteered in Bill Glass' "Behind the Walls" prison ministry for many years; they were also longtime members at Trinity Bible Church in Richardson. Papa retired from Raytheon-E Systems in 1991.

We, the grandchildren, liked to describe our beloved Papa as funny, kind, loving, intelligent, humble, fascinating, eccentric, heroic, wise, curious, an adventurer, full of life, a continuous learner and teacher, and a God-fearing, Christlike, and Spiritual man. Papa is greatly missed here.

A celebration of Papa's life will take place at 11:00 AM on February 21, 2022, in the Chapel at Denton Bible Church (2300 E University Drive, Denton, Texas 76209). Donations can be made to Bill Glass' "Behind the Walls" prison ministry at www.behindthewalls.com

Obituary: Click here

Richard Medler

1935 - February 6, 2022

Richard Eugene Medler, a resident of Colbert, Oklahoma , left this life on February 6, 2022 peacefully at home, at the age of 86. He was born in Savanna, Oklahoma on October 7, 1935.

Richard was a hardworking man who made his living working at E-Systems in Print Services, in Garland, Texas. He graduated high school from Colbert, Oklahoma. After 40+ years, he retried and returned to Colbert. He was a simple man. He didn’t require a lot. His greatest love besides gardening was his family that brought him so much joy. He loved basketball and didn’t miss a game his granddaughters played in all throughout high school. He would find a ride somewhere and somehow.

Mr. Medler is survived by his son, Donnye Medler and wife, Evon of Colbert, granddaughters Shawna Medler and Tara Medler of Colbert, and Atoria Adams, husband Christopher of Durant, OK as well as his great-grandchildren Addilyn, Bentley, Keegan, and Heidi. He is also survived by one brother, Charles Medler of Bokchito, OK.

Mr. Medler was preceded in death by his parents, brother Arnold Medler, son Ricky Medler and granddaughter Tamerla Medler.

Lowell Lawson

1938 – February 22, 2022

Andrew "Lowell" Lawson, Jr. 84 of Greenville Texas passed away Feb. 22, 2022 at his home.

He was born Jan. 16, 1938 to Andrew Lowell, Sr. and Vallie (Brazzeal) Lawson in Macon, Georgia. Lowell lived a full life and will be remembered as a loving husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He proudly served his country in the U.S. Navy Reserves.

He was a faithful member, deacon and Sunday school teacher of Ridgecrest Baptist Church in Greenville. He served in many roles for E-Systems for 34 years and into retirement. He served on the Greenville Chamber of Commerce and with the Caddo Wildlife Association.

Lowell is survived by his son, Andy Lawson, III; grandchildren, Haley Cottey, Meg Layman, Emily King, Madison Lawson, Jake Lawson, Jared Lawson, Tanner Lawson; great grandchildren, Adeline Cottey, Anya Cottey, Harvey Lawson, Jordan Lawson; beloved cousin, Genie Brazzeal; along with a host of loving relatives and friends.

Lowell was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Carol Belle Few Lawson; son, Steve Lawson; brother, John Lawson.

A funeral service will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Friday, Feb. 25, 2022 at Ridgecrest Baptist Church with Pastor Matt Beasley officiating. Interment will follow at the East Mount Cemetery.

Serving as Pallbearers will be Jake Lawson, Jared Lawson, Tanner Lawson, C.J. Cottey, Aaron Layman, and Dakota King.

Visitation will be held from 6-8 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 24, 2022 at Lynch Funeral Service in Greenville, Texas.

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to Ridgecrest Church.

Online condolences may be made at lynchfueralservice.com.

Obituary: Click here

Gretchen Hopkins

1955 – February 11, 2022

Gretchen Ceil Hopkins of Rockwall, Texas passed away unexpectedly on February 11, 2022, just six days after the passing of her beloved husband, Gary Hopkins who she lovingly cared for over recent years as he suffered with Parkinson’s.

She was born on May 19, 1955 in Dallas, Texas to George and Mildred Werner. In 1973 after graduation from Bryan Adams High School, she landed her first job with the Dallas County Health Department.

Eventually she launched a successful career with E-Systems Garland, one of the leading defense electronics companies in the United States. She later transferred to the Greenville Division, continuing a career that spanned over 30 years. Early in her E-Systems career, she met Gary, the love of her life. They married on September 1, 1990 in Dallas, beginning a devoted, loving relationship of over 31 years. While employed full-time, Gretchen also attended and earned a Bachelor's degree in Business Administration from Letourneau University.

Gretchen and Gary were very hospitable and generous and loved to entertain and host family get-togethers. They enjoyed taking spur-of-the-moment road trips and taking in an occasional casino. They were huge Dallas Cowboys fans and especially enjoyed cheering on Gary's alma mater team, the University of Oklahoma Sooners. Gretchen loved gardening and celebrating and decorating and sending cards for every holiday.

She was brave, strong, and courageous as she twice fought breast cancer and survived the disease. She had a strong passion for animals, especially her three cats (Rambo, Catnip and Chester) who she loved to spoil. She fully earned the title of Cat Mom. She was beautiful, loving and kind and will live forever in our hearts.

Gretchen is survived by her brother, Vincent Werner and his wife MK of Plano, Texas, sister, Kristen Steege and her husband Arnie of Austin, Texas, nieces Dr. Bethany Werner and Geneva Werner, nephew George Werner, Jr. (Melissa), niece, Jennifer Richey (Cory) and great-nephews and great-nieces and cousins. She is also survived by her step-children, Cary Evans and her husband Mike, Erin Stanley and her husband Kevin and Carter Hopkins and his wife Amie. She was a beloved "Nana" to her six grandchildren and great-granddaughter. Gretchen was preceded in death by her husband, Gary Hopkins, parents George and Mildred Werner and brothers George and John Werner.

An Afternoon of Remembrance for Gretchen and Gary will be held Saturday, February 26, 2022 from 2:00-4:00 pm with words of remembrance spoken at 3:00 p.m. at Allen Family Funeral Options.

Gary and Gretchen will be laid to rest together at the DFW National Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to your local Humane Society or Vitas Hospice at vitascommunityconnection.org

Darla Wycoff

1939 – February 4, 2022

Darla Gayle Wyckoff, age 82, passed away on Friday, February 4, 2022, in Plano, Texas. She was born to Mr. John Jones and Ms. Viola Jones on April 15, 1939, in Steubenville, Ohio. Darla leaves her loved ones with unforgettable memories and loving stories. She will be sincerely missed by her loving family, devoted friends, and all the wonderful individuals who knew and loved her.

She was married to her high school sweetheart William A. Wyckoff for 62 years. Her husband was in USAF and she travelled the world with him. She was a member of Buckingham United Methodist Church. Her hobbies were Bunco and games with friends. She was Class Valedictorian in the Class of 1957 at Steubenville High School.

She was preceded in death by parents John W. & Viola M. Jones, brother John D. Jones

She is survived by husband William A. Wyckoff, daughter Patricia C. Wyckoff, grandchild William Asher Wyckoff

Memorials Made To: American Cancer Society https//www.cancer.org/made in honor of Darla Wyckoff & American Heart Association heart.org in honor of Darla Wyckoff

Obituary: Click here

Announcements

My Back Porch

On the first day, God created the dog and said, "Sit all day by the door of your house and bark at anyone who comes in or walks past. For this, I will give you a life span of twenty years."

The dog said, "That's a long time to be barking. How about only ten years and I'll give you back the other ten?"

And God saw it was good.

On the second day, God created the monkey and said, "Entertain people, do tricks, and make them laugh. For this, I'll give you a twenty-year life span."

The monkey said, "Monkey tricks for twenty years? That's a pretty long time to perform. How about I give you back ten like the dog did?"

And God, again saw it was good.

On the third day, God created the cow and said, "You must go into the field with the farmer all day long and suffer under the sun, have calves and give milk to support the farmer's family. For this, I will give you a life span of sixty years."

The cow said, "That's kind of a tough life you want me to live for sixty years. How about twenty and I'll give back the other forty?"

And God agreed it was good.

On the fourth day, God created humans and said, "Eat, sleep, play, marry and enjoy your life. For this, I'll give you twenty years."

But the human said, "Only twenty years? Could you possibly give me my twenty, the forty the cow gave back,

the ten the monkey gave back,

and the ten the dog gave back; that makes eighty, okay?"

"Okay," said God, "You asked for it."

So that is why for our first twenty years, we eat, sleep, play and enjoy ourselves.

For the next forty years, we slave in the sun to support our family.

For the next ten years, we do monkey tricks to entertain the grandchildren.

And for the last ten years, we sit on the front porch and bark at everyone.

Life has now been explained to you.

There is no need to thank me for this valuable information.

I'm doing it as a public service.

If you are looking for me I will be on the front porch...

Eileen Wahlstrom

  Submit your Garland ESY/Raytheon stories now!!

E-SYSTEMS/RAYTHEON RETIREES LUNCH GROUP

By Eileen Wahlstrom

January 26, 2022

Present: 21

First Time: 0

Long Time: 0

Guests: 0

SICKNESS:

Gary Tibbals has dementia.

Tom Kummer had another small stroke but is recovering fine.

Jerry Kramer’s is still keeping him at home.

Mike Chaffee: Mike fell December 19th on uneven concrete while walking the dog. He ended up in the hospital with a brain bleed due to being on blood thinners. They reversed the blood thinner which resulted in a pulmonary embolism. They had the drip the blood thinner back. He got home January 6th. It’s been a slow go but he got a good report last week from the neurosurgeon.

Friendly Faces

Our friendly faces from the January luncheon. We want to see more next month!

Deaths

Carole Keiffer

July 31, 1936 - January 20, 2022

To Carole’s Facebook Family posted by Susan Keiffer.

Mrs. Carole Ann Keiffer of Horseshoe Bay, TX, passed away peacefully, surrounded by family and friends, on Thursday, January 20, 2022, at home after a valiant battle with COPD.

Carole was born in Greenville, TX, on July 31, 1936. She was the daughter of Oscar and Verda Porter and graduated from Greenville High School and, later attended East Texas State College. Throughout school, she enjoyed sports and became a fast-pitch softball pitcher.

While in Greenville, Carole worked as an Administrative Assistant at LTV (Ling-Temco-Vought), where she met and then married E.G. “Gene” Keiffer on February 27, 1969. They lived in Dallas, TX, where Gene became President and CEO of E-Systems. Carole was a homemaker extraordinaire, raising a family, running their household, and entertaining dignitaries.

Carole was a member of Bent Tree Country Club where she enjoyed playing golf and being part of many social and charitable organizations. Over 20 years ago, she and Gene made Horseshoe Bay, TX, their primary residence. Carole quickly made many friends with her fun-loving sense of humor and kind ways. As a member of Horseshoe Bay Resort and, later, Escondido, Carole enjoyed entertaining family and friends on many occasions. She was an avid supporter of all first responders, social groups, and many charities. Known for her love of nature and all animals, she especially cherished her many Dobermans over the years.

Mrs. Carole Ann Keiffer is survived by her daughter Cheri Ann Jones of California; step children Edwin Paul Keiffer and wife Beverly, Judith Susan Keiffer, Amy Lynn Keiffer, all of Texas; niece Tammy Ann Gibbs of Alabama; grand children Edwin Scott Keiffer and wife Eileen, Rebecca Keiffer Toft and husband Martin, Blake Morris Womack and wife Jessica, and Brady Monroe Womack. She is also survived by her precious Doberman Guy.

Mrs. Carole Ann Keiffer was preceded in death by her grandmother Hattie Evans, parents Oscar and Verda Porter, brother Billy Porter, sister Bettye Gibbs, brother-in-law Jim Gibbs, nephew Chuck Gibbs, husband Gene Keiffer, and other family, close friends, and beloved dogs.

A private celebration of Carole Ann Keiffer's life will be held for family and friends. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorials be made to the Horseshoe Bay Fire Department, the Horseshoe Bay Police Department, or the Highland Lakes SPCA of Marble Falls

Obituary: Click here

Lynda Parker wife of Dan Parker

July 27, 1950 - January 18, 2022

Lynda Kay (Burnett) Parker of McKinney, Texas passed away on January 18, 2022 at the age of 71. She was born on July 27, 1950 to Clinton Burnett and Mary (Ballard) Burnett in Benton, Arkansas. Lynda married Dan Parker on December 31, 2007 in Raleigh, North Carolina. She was a salon owner. Lynda was of Christian faith.

Lynda is survived by her husband, Dan Parker of McKinney, Texas

Obituary: Click here

Ken Sangren

January 10, 1958 - January 22, 2022

Lost his fight with Cancer on January 22, 2022. Ken graduated from the University of Arkansas with a degree in Electrical Engineering. He completed his Master's Degree in Engineering at Southern Methodist University. He had a lengthy career at E-Systems / Raytheon Technologies, retiring at the age of 40. Ken thoroughly enjoyed working and chose to continue his career as a consultant working with Foremost Communications Incorporated (Telecommunications)

Obituary: Click here

Announcements

My Back Porch

On the first day, God created the dog and said, "Sit all day by the door of your house and bark at anyone who comes in or walks past. For this, I will give you a life span of twenty years."

The dog said, "That's a long time to be barking. How about only ten years and I'll give you back the other ten?"

And God saw it was good.

On the second day, God created the monkey and said, "Entertain people, do tricks, and make them laugh. For this, I'll give you a twenty-year life span."

The monkey said, "Monkey tricks for twenty years? That's a pretty long time to perform. How about I give you back ten like the dog did?"

And God, again saw it was good.

On the third day, God created the cow and said, "You must go into the field with the farmer all day long and suffer under the sun, have calves and give milk to support the farmer's family. For this, I will give you a life span of sixty years."

The cow said, "That's kind of a tough life you want me to live for sixty years. How about twenty and I'll give back the other forty?"

And God agreed it was good.

On the fourth day, God created humans and said, "Eat, sleep, play, marry and enjoy your life. For this, I'll give you twenty years."

But the human said, "Only twenty years? Could you possibly give me my twenty, the forty the cow gave back,

the ten the monkey gave back,

and the ten the dog gave back; that makes eighty, okay?"

"Okay," said God, "You asked for it."

So that is why for our first twenty years, we eat, sleep, play and enjoy ourselves.

For the next forty years, we slave in the sun to support our family.

For the next ten years, we do monkey tricks to entertain the grandchildren.

And for the last ten years, we sit on the front porch and bark at everyone.

Life has now been explained to you.

There is no need to thank me for this valuable information.

I'm doing it as a public service.

If you are looking for me I will be on the front porch...

Eileen Wahlstrom

  Submit your Garland ESY/Raytheon stories now!!

E-SYSTEMS/RAYTHEON RETIREES LUNCH GROUP

By Eileen Wahlstrom

July, August, September, October 2020

Stay away from the virus of 2020

From Jerry Bryant:

JUST A LITTLE HELPFUL INFORMATION.

STROKE HAS A NEW INDICATOR

They say if you forward this to ten people, you stand a chance of saving one life. Blood Clots/Stroke —They Now Have a Fourth Indicator, The Tongue.

STROKE: Remember the 1st Three Letters….. S. T. R. STROKE IDENTIFICATION:

During a BBQ, Jane stumbled and took a little fall — she assured everyone that she was fine (they offered to call paramedics) she said she had just tripped over a brick because of her new shoes. They got her cleaned up and got her a new plate of food. While she appeared a bit shaken up, Jane went about enjoying herself the rest of the evening. Jane’s husband called later telling everyone that his wife had been taken to the hospital — (at 6:00 p.m. Jane passed away). She had suffered a stroke at the BBQ. Had they known how to identify the signs of a stroke, perhaps Jane would be with us today. Some don’t die. They end up in a helpless, hopeless condition instead. It only takes a minute to read this. A neurologist says that if he can get to a stroke victim within 3 hours he can totally reverse the effects of a stroke…totally. He said the trick was getting a stroke recognized, diagnosed, and then getting the patient medically cared for within 3 hours, which is tough.

RECOGNIZING A STROKE Thank God for the sense to remember the ‘3’ steps, STR. Read and Learn! Sometimes symptoms of a stroke are difficult to identify. Unfortunately, the lack of awareness spells disaster. The stroke victim may suffer severe brain damage when people nearby fail to recognize the symptoms of a stroke.

Now doctors say a bystander can recognize a stroke by asking three simple questions. S* Ask the individual to SMILE. T* Ask the person to TALK and SPEAK A SIMPLE SENTENCE (Coherently) (i.e. Chicken Soup) R* Ask him or her to RAISE BOTH ARMS. If he or she has trouble with ANY ONE of these tasks, call emergency number immediately and describe the symptoms to the dispatcher. New Sign of a Stroke: Stick out Your Tongue. NOTE: Another ‘sign’ of a stroke is this. Ask the person to ‘stick’ out his tongue. If the tongue is ‘crooked’, if it goes to one side or the other, that is also an indication of a stroke. A cardiologist says if everyone who gets this information sends it to 10 people, you can bet that at least one life will be saved.

for more informations on how to identify Strokes Click Here

Present: 0

First Time: 0

Long Time: 0

Guest: 0

SICKNESS:

I pray that none of us retirees have caught the virus. Hopefully, everyone is staying as safe as possible. If you feel sick, please isolate until you know what’s wrong. If you need anything reach out through email, Facebook, phone. We are in this together.

Yvonne McGregor - Yvonne McGregor fell and broke her hip mid September. Caregiver found her on the floor when she came in on Monday morning. She had a partial hip replacement at Medical City in Plano. She was moved to a rehab facility. The Healthcare Resort of Plano, 3325 W. Plano Pkwy, Plano, Tx 75075. Bet she would love to get cards from us. Please add Yvonne and all her family to your prayers.

I have missed my friend Yvonne but have been lax in calling her.
Hope you all are doing well and hope to see you in early December.
Take care of yourself and your family.
Miss you, Vicky Carlson

Update (Oct 20) from Vicki: Yvonne is better. Her spirits are good her daughter said. Still at rehab. Had her up walking with a walker the other day. Short term memory not to good but who’s is these days!

Chris Reynolds – Had her hip replacement surgery March 16th. Had knee replacement surgery August 17th. She has recovered from both and is on the move! Photography abounds on her Facebook page!

George Carlsness: Update on George from Joanne’s Facebook post:

George is up and about and tending to his prayer garden.

7/14/20

Update from George’s surgical oncologist:

"At 3 months past his surgery, George’s CT scan results were good, no sign of tumors. Everything looked good with his digestive system from the surgery. We thank God for this progress and good report. Thank you all for your thoughts, prayers and support for the past 3 months. Please continue to pray for him as he continues the remainder of his chemotherapy. He has completed three treatments and has nine treatments to go, ending sometime near Thanksgiving"

Pat Bryner: Stroke March 12th. Is rehabbing with her daughters up north. You can send Pat a card at this address: 10845 Kingston Ave., Huntington Woods, MI 48070

Bill Bedingfield – He and his adult daughter contracted Covid a few weeks back. She is recovered and back home but he is up and down and still in the hospital. Not doing well. Sharon, his daughter, doesn’t have much hope left. Prayers.

Deaths

Luther Kirk

1956 - 2020

It is always difficult saying goodbye to someone we love and cherish. Family and friends must say goodbye to their beloved Luther Kirk III (Dallas, Texas), who passed away at the age of 63, on October 2, 2020. You can send your sympathy in the guestbook provided and share it with the family. You may also light a candle in honor of Luther Kirk III or send a beautiful flower arrangement to the funeral service.

Visitation was held on Wednesday, October 7th 2020 from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM at the Heavenly Gate Funeral Services (702 Gatewood Rd, Garland, TX 75043). A graveside service was held on Thursday, October 8th 2020 at 10:00 AM at the Dallas Fort Worth National Cemetery (2000 Mountain Creek Pkwy, Dallas, TX 75211).

Luther passed away resulting from a heart attack.

Theron Scott Robinson

1959 - 2020

It is with great sadness the family of Theron “Scott” Robinson announces his passing. Scott passed away peacefully on Friday, October 16, 2020 after complications from gallbladder surgery. A memorial service will be held at Genesis Church at 5780 Virginia Pkwy., McKinney, TX 75071 on October 27, 2020 at 6:30 PM. Scott was born in Dallas, Texas in January of 1959. He attended Mesquite High School and graduated in 1977. While working full time supporting his wife and two children he went on to earn a Bachelors' degree in Business Administration from Dallas Baptist University.

He worked as a software engineer for over 29 years at Raytheon where he retired from in 2014 after having health issues.

He loved to spend time with family and friends, fishing and listening to music. Scott could make friends with almost anyone. He would often meet someone at work, a restaurant or store, etc. and they would be going fishing with him soon thereafter. Scott is survived by his loving wife, Cynthia Robinson; his children, Christa Dennis and her husband, Aukai, and Jerad Robinson; his grandchildren, Mason and Landyn Dennis, and many good friends. If you wish to send flowers the church will accept deliveries on Tuesday, October 27, 2020 from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm.

“A bad day of fishing is better than a good day at work.” -Unknown

Albert (Al) Gondran

1928 – 2020

GONDRAN, Albert Age 92, of Heath, TX, died on October 22, 2020. Albert was born 6/30/1928. Graveside service will be 1:00pm Saturday 10/31/2020 at Wilder Cemetery in Naples, TX.

Announcements

Eileen Wahlstrom

E-SYSTEMS/RAYTHEON RETIREES LUNCH GROUP

By Eileen Wahlstrom

April 29, 2020

Remember

Stay home, if you must go out please continue to practice social distancing of six feet and personal hygiene measures. Check in on your family, friends and neighbors, especially those who are elderly. Support local restaurants and food establishments by ordering delivery or curbside service. Follow the Library and Parks and Rec Facebook pages for fun stuff to do virtually.

Stay away from the virus of 2020

Present: 0

First Time: 0

Long Time: 0

Guest: 0

SICKNESS:

I am so relieved to say we have no reported virus cases in our group. Let’s keep it that way and take this seriously! If you feel sick, please isolate until you know what’s wrong. If you need anything, and that goes for everyone, reach out through email, Facebook, phone. We are in this together.

Chris Reynolds: Had her hip replacement surgery March 16th. Here is her latest update from Facebook dated April 18.

“Doing pretty good - zero hip pain, but knee replacements will have to be done at some point. At least I can walk again - still very cautious about walking on uneven surfaces and going up and down curbs, etc. Not sure that's going to improve much until knees are done! Thrilled with hip replacement, though.”

George Carlsness: Update on George from Joanne’s Facebook post:

I want to thank you all so much for your thoughts and concern and especially your prayers. George has had a very tough week but turned a corner on Friday and started feeling a lot better on Saturday and today he sounds more like himself. It takes time for all the organs to wake up after such a lengthy surgery and to start performing as they need to. Meanwhile there’s lots of difficult issues that he has to deal with. Most of the tubes and the catheter were removed on Friday afternoon and he was able to rest better after that. He is much better now and hopefully will get to come home by Tuesday. We are so grateful to God for his healing power that has brought George this far.

We learned on Friday that the type of cancer he has is Ampullary carcinoma, the origin of the cancer. The ampullarf is the very end of the bile duct where it goes into the duodenum. The tumor was approximately 1 inch. It was removed of course when he had the other organs removed at the same time. They did discover that the cancer cells had traveled to two lymph nodes. This means that he will require chemotherapy and possibly radiation when he has healed enough, possibly 4 to 6 weeks from now. We would’ve loved, of course, to have heard otherwise but we trust that God is with us every step of the way as he has been. And we know he will provide all that we need. Please pray for continued healing and strength for the next few months as George begins chemotherapy. being apart during this very difficult surgery has been probably the hardest part for both of us. I look so forward to him coming home./p>

He sends his gratitude to everyone for your prayers and for your well wishes.

Dear friends and family: update on George since leaving the hospital:

George came home on Saturday and he is doing very well. He is eating well and seems to be digesting everything well. He gets tired easily but with rest he comes back and is ready to be up again. We went to the doctor today and got a good report. He said that he is doing about how he should be doing at this stage of recovery. He was able to get one drain tube removed. Still waiting for the second one. We meet with the doctor again next week and on the same day we will meet with the medical oncologist regarding chemotherapy. We are so thankful for the progress he is making. We know God is answering many prayers. Thank you so very much for your prayers and your love and support

Bobby Gambrell: Carolyn had heart surgery recently and Bobby has been taking care of her. He says they are doing fine.

Pat Bryner: Stroke March 12th. Is rehabbing with her daughters up north. You can send Pat a card at this address: 10845 Kingston Ave., Huntington Woods, MI 48070

Deaths

Ellen R. Suchey

January 1953 – April 2020

SUCHEY, Ellen R. 1953 - 2020 Most loving mother, died at age 67 on April 9th 2020, survived by son Michael. Ellen worked in the Security department. Graveside service at Wylie Cemetery, Monday, April 13th at 2pm.

Henry Taylor Updike Jr.

JULY 16, 1944 – APRIL 7, 2020

Henry Taylor Updike, Jr., age 75, passed away in Culpeper, VA, April 7, 2020. Born in Front Royal, VA, July 16, 1944 to Henry Taylor Updike, Sr. and Dora Nethers Updike, Taylor grew up in Rappahannock County. He served his country in the U.S. Navy and later worked as an electronics engineer for Raytheon Technologies. Taylor received a Master’s Degree in Business Management through National-Louis University. Taylor enjoyed the outdoors, working on home projects, and most of all spending time with his children and grandchildren. Surviving Taylor are his children; Brian Updike and his wife Pam of Fredericksburg, VA and Kellie Updike Baker and her husband Kevin of Culpeper, VA and five grandchildren; Griffin Baker, Raegan Baker, Grayson Updike, Anna Updike and Spencer Updike. Taylor is also survived by two sisters; Anne Martin of Culpeper and Gail Newland of Nokesville

In addition to his parents, his wife, Susie Updike precedes him in death. A private interment will be held on Friday, April 17, 2020 in Fairview Cemetery, Culpeper, VA

Contributions may be made in his honor to the Parkinson’s Foundation, https://www.parkinson.org/.

Fond memories and condolences of Mr. Updike may be shared with the Updike family through clore-english.com. The Updike family has entrusted Clore-English Funeral Home with these arrangements.

Obituary: Click here

Mr. Johnie H Bynum

October 24, 1926 - April 13, 2020

Johnie Horace Bynum was born October 24, 1926 in Emerson Arkansas near the border of Louisiana to the parents of Cherry and John Henry Bynum. He was the third child of eight children. He confessed his love of Christ at an early age. He graduated from Walker High School (1945) and immediately joined the US Navy. Following his tour of duty he enrolled in Arkansas A &M where he met and married Susie Smart in 1949. To this marriage three children were born. He moved to Dallas in 1950 where he was employed by Ling-Temco-Volt which is currently Raytheon and remained there for 45 years. He retired in 1995 as a Maintenance Foreman. During his time with Raytheon he owned a successful lawn service which he continued well into retirement. In 2008 he met Elmyra M. Harlan and they were and married in 2009. His passions in life were travelling (favorite places; Alaska, California, Hawaii) and studying the bible in preparation for Sunday School.

His faith walk was nurtured by; Laymen Chapel CME, Christian Chapel CME, Porter’s Temple CME all in Dallas, TX.

He is preceded in death by his mother and father Cherry and John Henry Bynum, granddaughter Stephanie Dawn Smith, brothers; Frank, William and Eddie Bynum(Dorothy), sisters; Abitha Doss (Curtis), Virginia Cooks, Willie Mae Kimmons (Murry Sr.), Naliza Burton (Joe Gene). He is survived to cherish his memories wife Elmyra Bynum, son Johnie C. Bynum, daughters; Deborah Smith (Archie), Wanda Bynum-Wilson, special step-daughter Wanda Harlan, grandson Shun Aric Smith (Allison), brother-in-law Cecil Cook, and a host of other relatives and friends.

Obituary: Click here

Announcements

Eileen Wahlstrom

E-SYSTEMS/RAYTHEON RETIREES LUNCH GROUP

By Eileen Wahlstrom

March 25, 2020

For the first time any of us can remember, our monthly luncheon get-together was cancelled. I miss everyone and the fellowship.

Remember

Stay home, if you must go out please continue to practice social distancing of six feet and personal hygiene measures. Check in on your family, friends and neighbors, especially those who are elderly. Support local restaurants and food establishments by ordering delivery or curbside service. Follow the Library and Parks and Rec Facebook pages for fun stuff to do virtually.

Stay away from the virus of 2020

Present: 0

First Time: 0

Long Time: 0

Guest: 0

SICKNESS:

I am so relieved to say we have no reported virus cases in our group. Let’s keep it that way and take this seriously! If you feel sick, please isolate until you know what’s wrong. If you need anything, and that goes for everyone, reach out through email, Facebook, phone. We are in this together.

Chris Reynolds: Had her hip replacement surgery March 16th. Here is her latest update from Facebook.

“What a beautiful evening on the patio! Glass of wine (have been off pain pills since Sunday). Got the pool vac refurbished and cleaned the filter today. Wes shocked the pool (getting really green) and so much enjoying no more hip pain. Still walk weird as I learn to adjust to my new and improved joint, but light at the end of the tunnel. COVID19, be gone!! Praying that nightmare resolves itself soon.”

Sounds like she is sooo much better!

Bobby Gambrell: Carolyn had heart surgery recently and Bobby has been taking care of her.

Pat Bryner: Stroke March 12th. Is rehabbing with her daughters up north. You can send Pat a card at this address: 10845 Kingston Ave., Huntington Woods, MI 48070

Announcements

Eileen Wahlstrom

E-SYSTEMS/RAYTHEON RETIREES LUNCH GROUP

By Eileen Wahlstrom

February 26, 2020

Present: 33

First Time: 0

Long Time: 0

Guest: 0

SICKNESS:

Chris Reynolds: Went to the pre-OP joint wellness class Monday at Baylor Uptown. Three weeks from today she will have hip replacement surgery.

Bobby Gambrell ACarolyn had heart surgery recently and Bobby has been taking care of her.

Deaths

Ron Crowder

May 1944 - January 23, 2020

Ronald Wayne Crowder went to live with his Savior on January 23, 2020. Memorial services will be 2:00 PM Tuesday January 28, at South Georgia Baptist Church in Amarillo with Pastor Mike Martin officiating. Interment will follow at Llano Cemetery. A formal visitation will be held Tuesday at the church from 1:00 – 2:00 PM.

Ron was born in Greybull, Wyoming in May 1944 to Vera and Robert Crowder while his father was serving in World War II. He graduated from Lexington High School in Lexington,Oklahoma in 1962. He earned a bachelors degree from Amber University in 1989.

Ron was a Vietnam veteran who served in the U.S. Navy Reserve and the U.S. Air Force for 22 years. Upon retiring from the USAF, he continued working on national defense programs as a civilian engineer for Raytheon Company for 23 years.

He married Lois Berglan in Lexington, Oklahoma, on March 2, 1968. They raised two children together. Ron was raised in church but he had no personal relationship with Christ until he was 32 years old. At that time, he began leading his family to serve the Lord in churches in Colorado, Alaska, Florida and Texas.

He was preceded in death by his father Robert Crowder of Greybull, Wyoming; his mother Vera Brown of Lexington, Oklahoma; and his brother Mike Brown of Purcell, Oklahoma.

Survivors include his wife of almost 52 years, Lois Crowder of Amarillo; daughter Pam Cavitt and husband Wade of Amarillo, Texas; son Allen Crowder and wife Kelly of Schertz, Texas; and grandchildren Chris, Austin, Abby, and Zayden Cavitt and Chase and Luke Crowder. He will also be missed by in-laws, cousins, friends and fellow veterans.

In lieu of flowers, gifts can be made in his memory to jaars.org, mission22.org, worldvision.org, and awana.org. Ron desired that everyone who attends his services dress casually because he hated wearing a tie.

Roger D. White

January 1944 - December 29, 2019

Roger Dewey White, age 75 of Murphy, Texas, passed away unexpected, on Sunday December 29, 2019. Roger was born in Galveston, Texas, on January 31, 1944, to Edgar White and his wife, Lois.

Roger was a graduate of the University of Texas at Austin, obtaining a degree in Electrical Engineering. During Roger's working years, he had a career in Defense at Texas Instruments, and later Raytheon, as an Electrical Engineer. Roger, known as "W5RDW" in amateur radio, spent many hours in his ham shack at his home and attending Field Day and club activities. He was also proud of his accomplishment of contacting someone in most countries around the world.

Roger grew to be a faithful worshiper of Jehovah later in his life and spent many years as one of Jehovah's Witnesses, attending services and book studies with his wife, Mary, and children. As he started having grandchildren, he enjoyed spending time at dance recitals, baseball games, football games, and numerous other activities they were involved in.

Roger is preceded in death by his wife of 47 years, Mary; daughter, Jana Yarbrough and husband, Tim of Frisco, Texas; son, Craig White and wife, Jenni of Murphy, Texas; son, Jeff White and wife, Mary of Plano, Texas; grandchildren, Tanner, Caleb, Ashlyn, Connor, Ava, Charlie and Austin. Roger is also survived by his brothers, Dexter White and his wife, Mary, and Mark White and his wife, Kathy.

Roger is preceded in death by his parents, Edgar and Lois White, and his granddaughter, Emma Yarbrough. Roger's life will be remembered by his friends and family in a private setting. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to https://campihope.org/, a foundation supporting children and their siblings who have cancer.

Robert Kimzey

August 20, 1930 - February 8, 2020

(Hi Kimzey’s husband)

Robert “Bob” Kimzey of Farmersville, Texas passed away on February 8, 2020 at the age of 89. He was born on August 20, 1930 in Farmersville, Texas to Alton Kimzey Sr. and Nona Watson. Bob is survived by his loving wife Hiahwahnah Kimzey and son John Kimzey. He is preceded in death by his daughter, Christi Kaye Kimzey.

A funeral service will be held at Hurst’s Fielder- Baker Funeral Home in Farmersville, Texas at 1:00PM on Tuesday, February 11, 2020. A Visitation will be held an hour prior to the service. The internment will follow the service at Restland Cemetery in Dallas, Texas.

Richard Roeger

January 1954 – February 17, 2020

Richard John Roeger, 66, passed away suddenly Monday, February 17, 2020, of complications from lung cancer at Baylor University Medical Center of Dallas. Richard John Roeger was born in Amarillo, TX on January 26, 1954, to Alfred John Roeger and Lois Cornelia Crowley. He graduated from South Garland High School in 1972 and received an Associate’s degree in Applied Arts and Sciences from Eastfield Community College. Rick worked as a design engineer at E-Systems, L-3 Communications, and Raytheon. Rick was preceded in death by his parents, and his nephew, Michael Marin. He is survived by his wife, Elaine Roeger, of Garland; grandson, Grayson Roeger, son, Rusty Roeger and wife, Melissa, of Overland Park, KS; son, Kent Roeger and fiancé, Maggie Bates, of Robinson, TX; son, Colin Roeger of Fort Worth; sister, Ann Marin of Garland; as well as many beloved family members, friends, and former coworkers.

Services: a Memorial Service will be held Friday, February 28, 2020 at 4:00 pm at First Christian Church of Garland. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation in Rick’s name to the American Lung Association at http://action.lung.org/site/TR?pxfid=158109&pg=fund&fr_id=1080.

Arthur J. Pettipaw

May 1993 – January 14, 2020

Art Pettipas passed away January 14, 2020. No obituary but his service was at the DFW National Cemetery.

Boyd Miller

March 3, 1937 - February 19, 2020

Boyd Stanley Miller, Jr., age 82 of Rowlett, TX, passed away February19, 2020. He was born March 3, 1937 to Boyd Stanley Miller, Sr. and Florence (Bly) Miller. He married Patricia Pardis February 23, 1957, in New Brunswick, Canada.

Boyd served in the United States Air Force before joining the team at NASA where he worked on the Mercury Project, the Gemini Project and the Apollo Program. Equipment he engineered was used to put the first man on the moon in 1969. He later worked at Raytheon as an Engineer until his retirement.

Boyd was a pilot and volunteered with the Civil Air Patrol. He enjoyed hiking, mountain climbing, photography and taught a spin class at LA Fitness after his retirement.

He is survived by his wife of 62 years: Patricia Miller of Rowlett, TX; children: Scott Miller of Richardson, TX, Steven Miller of Rowlett, TX and Michelle Miller Castro and husband Frankie of Ft. Lauderdale, FL; grandchildren: Shane Miller, Tristian Willis and Jace Miller; and great grandson: Patrick Miller. He is preceded in death by his parents.

There will be a private inurnment at the Dallas Fort Worth National Cemetery at a later date.

Announcements

Eileen Wahlstrom

E-SYSTEMS/RAYTHEON RETIREES LUNCH GROUP

By Eileen Wahlstrom

January 29, 2020

Present: 38

First Time: Sharla (Black) Johnson

Long Time: Norm Dixon, Boyd Low

Guest: Marian Parsons (Terry)

SICKNESS:

Kevin Tensley Knee replacement went well and he is getting around great.

Mike Donohoe: Also had a knee replacement. He is doing well.

Dottie Vaughn Dottie was missing today so Pat Bryner called to check on her. Dottie wasn’t feeling well so didn’t want to get out. Get better soon

Deaths

Bill Cox

June 1934 - December 2019

Billie L. Cox, born June 28, 1934 in Celina, Texas to Olin L. Cox, Sr. and Willie Leona Cox, passed away December 27, 2019 in Dallas.

He is preceded in death by his parents and brother, Olin Cox, Jr. Those left to cherish his memory include his beloved wife of 61 years, Linda; daughter, Billinda and husband Brian Matusek; grandson, Matthew Matusek; son, James Cox; sister, Vera and husband Johnny Jinks; many nieces and nephews.

A Memorial Service will be held on January 2, 2020 at the Episcopal Church of the Ascension, 8787 Greenville Ave, Dallas, TX at 2pm. A private inurnment will be held in the columbarium at St. Johns Episcopal Church.

Donations may be made in honor of Billie to the Texas Scottish Rite Hospital for Children.

Bill Cox worked for E-Systems in the 70’s.

Obituary: Click here

Don Schools

October 1931-January 2020

Donald (Don) Schools passed in his sleep January 9, 2020. His health had been failing for the last few years. He and his wife Janie Schools moved from their home in Garland to be closer to their two daughters who live in Lakeway outside of Austin. Don worked at E-Systems for many years, mostly in the Antenna Group, until his retirement in 1992. Don and Janie were heavily involved in the Employees' Club, specifically Softball. They spent many a night on the ball field serving as commissioners, score keepers, and players. Don previously requested no funeral service or memorial. If you would like to send a sympathy card to Janie email me and I’ll give you her mailing address. emmawahlstrom@aol.com

Deloris Dell Corder

November 05, 1937 - November 13, 2016

Deloris Dell Corder was born November 5, 1937 in Dallas, TX to Waymon Wooldridge & Hazel Scarborough Wooldridge and passed away November 13, 2016 at home in Garland, TX. Deloris was a loving mother and avid fisherwoman who loved raising her children, reading, cooking and her Rangers Baseball. She is survived by her loving husband, Alvin Douglas Corder; children: Steven Corder & wife Mary, Chris Corder & wife Traci; grandchildren: Max Corder, Adam Corder, Megan Roddy, Kimberly Corder, Kendal Corder, Zachary Corder, Madison Corder, Taylor Welch, Ashley Welch, Connor Welch; great-grandchildren: Collyns Corder, Owen Roddy, Drew Roddy, and one on the way; brother, Dr. Douglas Wooldridge. Deloris was preceded in death by her parents; daughter, Cheryl Corder; brother, Gaylan Wooldridge.

She was the admin for the MIS Department programmers in the 80s to early 90s.

James B. "Jim" Wheatley

March 22, 1941 - December 24, 2019

James B. “Jim” Wheatley, age 78 of Rockwall, TX, went to be with his Lord on December 24, 2019. He was born March 22, 1941, in Northville, MI, to Jesse James Wheatley and Frances Roberta (Sutzer) Wheatley. Jim grew up in Colorado, where he became an Eagle Scout, and graduated from Colorado State University with a degree in electrical engineering. He proudly served his country in the U.S. Air Force, attaining the rank of Captain, and continued working as an electrical engineer in the defense industry, retiring from Raytheon in 2009.

Jim met the love of his life, Lana Kaye Korth, in 1968, and they married on August 22, 1970. They moved to Rockwall 33 years ago and have been members of First Baptist Church of Rockwall for 32 years. While serving there, Jim became a deacon and his son-in-law, Mike, participated in his ordination. He was also a Mason for over 50 years. Jim was an amazing husband, father and Papa. He and Lana held strong beliefs about married couples learning to stay together for a lifetime. They became involved in Better Marriages, an organization that provides support for couples. Jim and Lana served on the Board of Directors on the national level for eight years, serving as President Couple for four of those. They were also active on the state level for 14 years, serving as President Couple for one year. They were involved in helping couples with premarital counseling, as well as other activities. In his spare time, Jim enjoyed travel, especially cruises, reading, fishing and mechanics.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 49 years: Lana Wheatley; son: Jeffrey Wheatley; daughter: Melanie McCarthy and husband Mike; grandsons: Liam and Noah McCarthy; father-in-law: Larence Darrel Korth; brothers-in-law: Darrel Korth and wife Carol, and John Pearson; and two nieces and one nephew. He was preceded in death by his parents; sister: Martha Pearson; and mother-in-law: Clarella Korth.

Funeral services will be held 1:00pm, Monday, December 30, 2019, at First Baptist Church, 610 S. Goliad Street, Rockwall with Pastors Steve Swofford and Jesse Crouch officiating. Interment will follow in Rest Haven Memorial Park. A gathering of family and friends will be held Sunday afternoon at The Gathering at Rest Haven Funeral Home-Rockwall Location from 3:00 to 5:00pm. Memorial contributions may be made to Better Marriages at www.bettermarriages.org.

Announcements

Eileen Wahlstrom

E-SYSTEMS/RAYTHEON RETIREES LUNCH GROUP

By Eileen Wahlstrom

December18, 2019

Present: 27

First Time: None

Long Time: None

Guest: None

SICKNESS:

Kevin Tensley: Knee replacement went well and he is getting around great.

Mike Donohoe: Also had a knee replacement. He is doing well.

Deaths

John Boardman

Carole Gangstead posted this message on Facebook…

John Boardman's wife, Merrily, reported the sad news that John passed away on November 3. John worked in S&T and was Merv's (my husband) mentor & friend for many years.

Johnny Ray Andrews

February 23, 1959 - December 12, 2019

Johnny Ray Andrews (60 years old) died last Thursday after a major heart attack. He worked in Garland E-systems Security during the 1980-1990's and lived in the Wylie area.

On Thursday, December 12, 2019, Johnnie Ray Andrews, passed away at the age of 60. Ray was born on February 23, 1959 in Rockwall, Texas to Bonnie Harper and Leonard Cornelius. He grew up alongside his 2 brothers, Mathew and Mark and sister, Audrey. He graduated from Patagonia High School in 1977 and later attended and graduated from Stephen F. Austin University in 1984. In 1982 Ray met Donna Mae Marchetti and they married on December 16, 1985. Together, Ray and Donna shared a love-filled marriage of 34 years and will be together again in Heaven one day. Together they created a life with their two children, Joshua Ray and Rebekka Mae.

Ray was a family man with a love for the simple things in life. He enjoyed the outdoors and experiencing nature. Growing up, he would spend hours and sometimes days outside on the ranch walking, fishing, and hunting for snakes. He then passed this love on to his children by creating some of his children's favorite memories on their summer hiking adventures. He and his best friend of 44 years, Tim Buchanan, shared countless good times, which almost always included fishing and laughing hysterically. Ray loved to read and learn. There weren't many questions that he did not know the answer to. Ray was good with people; he had a compassionate heart that could understand trauma and mental illness. He used this gift to bless and help others volunteering for crisis helplines and various other counseling opportunities. Ray will be remembered by his laughter, quarks and simplicity by which he approached life with.

Ray was preceded in death by his father, Leonard, grandparents, Edwin C. Harper and Cecile Harper, and Craig Montgomery, nephew and husband to Tara. He is survived by his beloved wife, Donna Andrews of Wylie; Son, Joshua, and wife, Brittany Andrews of Nevada; Daughter, Bekka and husband, Hunter Dugan of Plano; Mother, Bonnie Harper of Rowlett; siblings, Mark, Mathew and Audrey; nieces, Bethany, Tara, Megan and nephews Jakob, Carson and Jason, husband to Bethany; great niece, Brooklyn and great nephew, Ivan; His best friend, Tim Buchanan of Blue Ridge. Ray was a soon to be grandfather to his two grandson's Jesse Andrews and Cameron Dugan.

Services were held at Charles W. Smith and Sons Funeral Home in Sachse, Texas on Tuesday, December 17, 2019 at 2 pm. Please send flowers to Charles W. Smith and Sons Funeral Home, 2925 Fifth St, Sachse, TX.

Announcements

Eileen Wahlstrom

E-SYSTEMS/RAYTHEON RETIREES LUNCH GROUP

By Eileen Wahlstrom

November 20, 2019

Present: 24

First Time: Mike Keebaugh, Chris Center

Long Time: Cheryl Martin

Guest: Sue Derrick (Kemp)

SICKNESS:

Kathy Chesnut: Kathy is still improving with her radiation treatments continuing.

Sue Hartson: Is slowly recovering from pneumonia. She is at home and taking it easy. Doctor said the pneumonia is still there but better. She took the pneumonia immunizations too!

Jan Bunch: Will have her cataract surgery.

Chris Williamson Reynolds: Have an appointment on December 19 with Dr. Mack Lancaster, the hip surgeon recommended by my friend, Larry Waisanen, the ortho oncologist I saw yesterday and the Occupational Therapist I have seen to deal with my pain issues. The OT has seen him and he had asked the surgical nurses at big Baylor what hip doctor they would recommend and they all said "go see Mack." So feel I will be in good hands! Ready to get the ball rolling on this next journey!

Deaths

Duane Powers

November 1938 – October 2019

POWERS, Duane Duane Paul Powers, 81, passed away on Tuesday, October 29, 2019, in Garland, Texas. He was born on Sunday, November 7, 1937, to his parents, Lewis Calvin Powers and Elsie Margaret Breeding in Pittsburg, Kansas. Duane will be sincerely missed by his loving family, his devoted friends and all the wonderful individuals who knew and loved him. Duane spent 23 years in the Air Force, retiring on Nov 30, 1982 as a Lt. Col. He joined E-Systems in Dec '82, where he worked until his retirement in August 2010. He loved baseball, square and round dancing, and clogging. He is survived by his wife Marilyn Powers , Garland, Texas, son Gary Powers, daughters Patti (Joe) Hebert, Paula Powers all of Sachse, TX, grandchildren Taylor, Riley, Joey, Sam and Kaci, great grandchildren Aydin, Tristan and Emmalynn. He was preceded in death by his son, Jeff Powers, his granddaughter Lyndi Grace Hebert, and his brother, Patrick Powers. Visitation for Duane will be held prior to funeral service on Saturday, November 2, 2019 from 1:30 PM to 2:00. Funeral services will be held 2:00 PM at First Baptist Church 801 W. Avenue D. Garland, TX 75040. Funeral arrangements for Duane have been faithfully entrusted to Restland Funeral Home and Cemetery, which is located at 13005 Greenville Ave., at the intersection of Restland Road, Dallas, Texas 75243, and can be reached at (972) 238-7111.

Obituary: Click here

Millie Martin

December 1940 – November 2019

Tyler, Texas - Mildred Mae Martin, 78, a long-time resident of Van, Texas, died Friday, November 1st at The Heights of Tyler.

Mildred Mae Martin (Simpson/Irvin) was born December 29, 1940 in Caney, Oklahoma to the late William Green Simpson and Emma Lois Brister Simpson. She is preceded in death by her brothers, Roger Dale Simpson, Billy Ray Simpson, Harvey Simpson, Nathan Simpson, Watus Simpson and AB Simpson; and former husband, Arvle Andrew Irvin.

After attending Abernathy High School, Ms. Martin worked her way through the ranks of type-setting and publishing which included several newspapers. She very quickly mastered expert skills in copy editing and data entry; which ultimately lead to her job at Raytheon E-Systems Inc., Aerospace & Defense for most of her long career. In that position she held a position with the highest civilian government clearance due to the sensitivities of her assignments. It took her on several assignments around the world, including Australia and England. She relished the travel opportunities and made many, many friends along the way. Millie, as she is most known by, was awarded several high honors of excellence for her outstanding work, which she truly loved.

Even though Millie enjoyed her work and travels, nothing compared to her love and devotion to her family here at home. She was very kind-hearted, never met a stranger, and was extremely generous to all. One of her favorite things to do was to prepare a big Thanksgiving meal every year for her entire family and their friends - her dressing was a tradition. When Millie wasn’t working, or helping someone - she loved to go to garage sales. She always had an eye for things that could be useful to someone she knew.

Survivors include her two children, Greg Irvin and wife, B. J. of Ben Wheeler and Cheryl Farquhar and husband, Ross of Van; stepdaughters, Susan Herring of Clarksville; Pam Worsham and husband Robert of San Antonio; Gail Crider of Coleman; stepson, Allen Martin of Fruitvale; sister, Fadre Simpson of Murchison; brothers, Floyd Simpson of Dallas and Doug Simpson and wife, Diane of San Antonio; three grandchildren, Rhiannon Sibley and husband, Johnathan of Ben Wheeler; Christopher Farquhar and wife, Brittany of Ben Wheeler; and Nick Sacerdote of Cleburne; former husband, Paul Martin of Van; and numerous great-grandchildren.

If desired, memorials can be made in her memory to the American Diabetes Association.

Ione Heitman

Mar 29, 1927 – Nov 10, 2019

Temco/LTV/E-Systems/Raytheon retiree. Started circa 1957

Announcements

Eileen Wahlstrom

E-SYSTEMS/RAYTHEON RETIREES LUNCH GROUP

By Eileen Wahlstrom

October 30, 2019

Present: 29

First Time: Ann Mendoza

Long Time: 0

Guest: 0

SICKNESS:

Carol Bunch Cataract Surgery on 10-23 went well.

Kathy Chesnut: Kathy is still improving with her radiation treatments continuing.

Sue Hartson: Was hospitalized several weeks ago with pneumonia. She is at home now and taking it easy. Doctor said the pneumonia is still there but better

Jan Bunch Will have her cataract surgery.

Chris Williamson MRI update; went fine today - even had to go head first into the thing for the lumbar/spinal MRI. Hip MRI with injection was nice because there's a numbing agent in there so gives some pain relief for a bit. For some reason, the "tube" doesn't bother me because I know I'm not really trapped in there so claustrophobia doesn't set in and my eyes are closed anyway. It's trying to be still and the weird noises that cause more issues for me. Made appointment with surgeon for follow-up and MRI results and whether I'm a candidate for the tendon repair - first available appointment is DECEMBER FREAKING 30TH!!! Going to try and talk to his PA and/or see if I can get a referral to another doctor - that is totally outrageous to wait another two and a half months to even find out what the plan is or if I can be "fixed" and live a normal life again. Really feeling very, very annoyed! I've never had any major health issues so having to deal with this nonsense is a whole new experience for me

Deaths

Allen Holley

March 31, 1930 - October 3, 2019

Dear Family and Friends of my father Allan Holley,

Services will be held on Tuesday October 8, 2019 at Williams Memorial Chapel in Garland, Tx. Visitation is scheduled for noon, with services to begin at 1:00pm. Interment will immediately follow at Restland Memorial Park – there will be a motorcycle escort to Restland.

The address for services is:
Williams Memorial Chapel
1600 South Garland Ave
Garland, Tx

Please let me know if you need additional information.

Sincerely,
Connie Tietz (Allan’s daughter)
817-721-5739

Obituary: Click here

Pat Low (Boyd Low’s wife)

October 23, 2019

Boyd Low called me yesterday to say that his wife, Pat, had died on Oct 23. Pat had battled cancer for a number of years and been doing well. Recently, the cancer returned and had gone to her brain.

Her obit is listed at Restland under Patricia Mary Low. A celebration of life is scheduled for Sat, Nov 16 at Buckingham Methodist Church in Garland at 10:00.

Helen Hull

Obituary: Click here

Sally Hammond (Duke Hammond’s wife)

Sally was born on October 14, 1953 and passed away on Friday, September 6, 2019. Sally graduated from Casa Roble High School in Citrus Heights, California. When Duke served in the Navy, Sally stayed home to take care of the kids while he was deployed.

Announcements

Here's the participants from the October “Wear something Halloweenish” luncheon. These good sports received first pick of a Raytheon logo item then everyone in attendance got to pick an item. Jim Gray won the “People’s Choice” honor and blew his whistle and threw a penalty flag!

Eileen Wahlstrom

E-SYSTEMS/RAYTHEON RETIREES LUNCH GROUP

By Eileen Wahlstrom

September 25, 2019

PRESENT: 27

SICKNESS:

Kathy Chesnut: Kathy has started her radiation treatments and is doing great!

Sue Hartson daughter Kim: Kim’s has been recuperating at Sue’s house and is getting better slowly. She will be there a while longer as she completes physical therapy.

Carol Kalenda Rotator Cuff surgery. Slow recovery.

Jan Bunch Dental problems. Pancreas issues still not a diagnosis

Chris Williamson Update on my hip issues for those interested. Saw the PA for the hip specialist this morning; my tendon tear is more complicated than normal due to the amount of retraction (assume this has been doing on for a long time, but finally started having the really painful symptoms). Also have some hip abnormalities that will make surgery more complicated if even possible - long and painful rehab. I'm going on October 7 for a very detailed MRI of the hip with the dye injection and also an MRI of my lumbar area. Once those are done, I will see the specialist and see what options are available. PA said it may be a right hip replacement will give me more mobility and physical therapy to try and improve the left hip with the tendon tear if surgery is not an option. I just want my life back :(.

Deaths

Mary Lou Carnes

Mary Lou Carnes passed away March 18 2019, Natural Causes. Passed away at home with her daughter Kathryn by her side. No obituary.

John Wallace

January 1936 – September 3rd, 2019

John Wallace, age 83, passed away on September 3, 2019, in San Diego, CA. He was born January 2, 1936, in Rush Township, Pennsylvania and raised in Osceola Mills, PA. He served in the USAF at Chanute AFB in Urbana, Illinois where he met his wife of 50 years, Colleen Peckham Wallace. He graduated from the University of Illinois with a degree in Mechanical Engineering.

Upon graduating and working in a number of different fields and consulting positions, most of his career was spent working in the field of Satellite Communications, at E-Systems in Dallas, TX and Radiation Systems in Richardson, TX. During his 52 year career, it took him to over 50 countries spread across six continents. He played significant roles in several amazing feats of technology, including VLA in New Mexico, Green Bank Telescope, and the Arecibo Observatory in Puerto Rico, which are all still very relevant today.

John was preceded in death by his parents John Victor Wallace and Mary Verbka, his wife Colleen Wallace, and grandson Andrew Vileta.

John is survived by his children (spouse): Greg Wallace (Anna), Julie Wallace (Andrea), Joan Wallace, and Michael Wallace; nine grandchildren Cristina Huff (Mitchell), Kate Bowers (Paul), Andrea Wallace, Sydney and Addison Galante, John Jay Vileta and Ryan Rheudasil, and Peyton and Torrey Wallace. He is also survived by two great grandchildren, Wallace Bowers and Marie Huff.

He will also be missed by his dearest friend, Monica Evans. We want to thank his caretaker, Jeff Jones, for his support in maximizing John’s quality of life over the last couple of years.

Gladys Davis

1931 – September 19, 2019

DAVIS, Gladys Marie Age 88, of Mesquite, TX, died on September 19, 2019. I was told she worked in Manufacturing.

Announcements

Mark your calendars! The October meeting will be on the 30th.

I’m still collecting eye glasses for donation to the Lion’s Club. Thank you all who have donated.

Eileen Wahlstrom

E-SYSTEMS/RAYTHEON RETIREES LUNCH GROUP

By Eileen Wahlstrom

August 28, 2019

PRESENT: 36

SICKNESS:

Kathy Chesnut: Doing better every day but still waiting to start her radiation treatments

Valerie Cox: From Scott Robinson: I visited Valerie one day of each of the last two weeks. Valerie gets up and can walk. She seems in very good spirits and looks forward to getting home. She did mention that her memory was not good. I was friends with Dan Cox and I mentioned a few things and she had no issue knowing what I was talking about

Sue Hartson daughter Kim: Kim’s has been recuperating at Sue’s house and is getting better slowly. She will be there a while longer..

Deaths

Gary Vincent

For those of you who knew Gary Vincent he passed away on Aug 11. He has been retired from E-Systems for 22 years, was 83 and lived his last years in Bothell, WA with his wife Linda. Prayers for the family are appreciated.

Ann Stark

August 1946 - August 2019

Ann Stark passed away on Tuesday, 13 August after having surgery to remove stage 1 cancer from one of her lungs. They did tests beforehand to verify her lungs were strong enough to handle this, but after surgery, she was in ICU for 3 weeks fighting to recover and her body just gave out. Ann was aware what was going on was involved in the decision on post-surgery treatment options. Ann would have been 73 in a few days.

Ann worked on the Poppy program for the nine years that she was at E-Systems and she left to pursue further education in 1994.

At the time of her death, Ann was living in Green Valley, Arizona with her husband of 20 years, Court Smith. Ann was able to see her daughter, son-in-law and grandkids a few days before she passed away.

Gene Slaughter

July 1941 – August 2019

SLAUGHTER, Gene Gene Slaughter, 77, passed away Wednesday, July 31 from pneumonia. Gene loved his family and his friends that he considered family. He loved New Mexico, Colorado, mountains and rivers. He loved cats and all small animals. He will be remembered as a quiet soul, who could always be depended on to be there and to help when needed. Gene was born to Willie "Buck" Slaughter and Dorothy Wells in Shiloh, Texas. While Texas-born, Gene grew up mostly in New Mexico and called Aztec, NM his home. After serving proudly in the U.S. Air Force, Gene moved to Plano, Tx. Gene and Nannette Daly married in 1969 and happily bickered daily for almost 40 years until she predeceased him in 2009.

Gene spent almost his entire career at LTV/E-Systems/Raytheon where he was an electrical engineer. After retirement, he and Nannette moved back to Aztec, NM where they loved gardening, traveling through the Colorado mountains, and watching wildlife. After 15 happy years in New Mexico, the lure of Texas and grandkids called and Gene and Nannette moved back to Kaufman, Tx where they both resided until their passings. Gene was a founding member of the North Texas Antique Tractor and Engine Club. He was also a long-time member of the E-Systems Retirees Club. Gene was predeceased by his parents and his sister Bette Perry.

He is survived by his sisters Ginger Taylor and Kathy Ellison and his brother Bob Sheppard. He is also survived by two daughters, Bonita Doyle and Judge Gena Slaughter and her husband, Richard Faulkner; grandchildren Beau, Mason, Evangeline and Grayson; and great-grandchildren Jackson, Harrison and Lyon. Gene is also survived by his family of choice, including Richard and Brenda Gray, Tanya Truitt, Michael Truitt and the entire Truitt family.

A memorial service was held on Sunday, August 11, 2019 at 4:00 p.m. at the Kaufman County Cowboy Church, 5970 State Hwy 243, Kaufman. As he wished, Gene was cremated; part of his ashes were interred with his wife Nannette in a private service and the remainder will be scattered at a later time over two of his favorite places - Wolf Creek Pass and Engineer Pass in the mountains of southern Colorado. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Dallas Cat Lady rescue group, dallascatlady.org or his place of worship, the Kaufman County Cowboy Church, kaufmancountycowboychurch.org.

Announcements

AND…..on a lighter note:

Popeye is 90 years old this year!!

Mark your calendars! The September meeting will be on the 25th.

I’m still collecting eye glasses for donation to the Lion’s Club. Thank you all who have donated.

Eileen Wahlstrom

E-SYSTEMS/RAYTHEON RETIREES LUNCH GROUP

By Eileen Wahlstrom

July 31, 2019

PRESENT: 33

FIRST TIME: 0

Guests: Al DeJohn, Don Wilson, Ken Linton, Minyonne Toumbs

LONG TIME: Al DeJohn, Don Wilson, Ken Linton, Minyonne Toumbs

Guests: Jan Bunch (Carroll)

SICKNESS:

Stan Baker: He has been back in the hospital for a short time but has been home for a couple of months. His and Sandy's middle son, Randy, was killed in an auto accident about the time Stan came home. So, they've had a tough time. Keep them in your prayers.

Jan Bunch (Carrol Bunch’s wife): She has a mass on her pancreas extending into her lower abdomen. Doing well right now! Doctor doesn't know why the mass originated...no bad stuff seen in that area. She has MRI again probably in early Sept to assess what is going on there at this time!!!

Carolyn Gambrell: Bobby’s wife fell and broke her hip while on a trip to Joplin, Missouri. She is progressing slowly.

Raye Ann Farris: After major surgery on her neck, Raye Ann says she is Doing better, I still have good days and bad days, but overall better.

Kathy Chesnut: Undergoing chemo for her Non-Hodgkin’s Leukemia. She seems to be doing ok. She has completed the chemo and will soon start radiation.

Valerie Cox: From Scott Robinson: I visited Valerie one day of each of the last two weeks. Valerie gets up and can walk. She seems in very good spirits and looks forward to getting home. She did mention that her memory was not good. I was friends with Dan Cox and I mentioned a few things and she had no issue knowing what I was talking about.

Carolyn Kerr: June 7th. DANG, I've done it now....fell and broke left humerus just below shoulder. Good report, x-rays show new bone forming but need 6 more weeks of physical therapy twice a week! Thanks for checking on me!

Sue Hartson daughter Kim: Kim’s surgery went well. She is out of the hospital and is doing much better with the help of her sister who is a physician. She will be returning to Sue’s home to further recuperate soon.

Deaths

Carl Gentine

July 1943 - June 2019

Lt. Col. Carl William Gentine, U.S. Army (Ret.) entered his heavenly home on Saturday, June 29, 2019 at home surrounded by his loving family.

Lt. Col. Gentine was born in Ft. Monmouth, NJ to CWO Paul William and Helen Gentine on July 25, 1943. Being in the military as a child, he moved every three or four years, finishing his senior year of high school in Tustin, CA. Upon graduation from high school, it seemed only likely that he continued with the military life he had enjoyed throughout the year. Carl graduated from the United States Military Academy in 1965, and almost immediately was assigned to Vietnam where he served two tours. After 20 years of service to his beloved country, he retired from the Army. He later went on to work for E-Systems and Raytheon.

Carl was preceded in death by his parents and a daughter, Kerri D. Gentine.

Lt. Col. Gentine is survived by his wife and soulmate, Suzi; daughter, Kristin Gentine and husband Jonathon Roberts; daughter, Stephanie Oxford; son, Thad Oxford and wife Jessica; two brothers, Paul and wife Muriel, and Marc and wife Sue. He was blessed with several grandchildren and great-grandchildren. And last, but never least, his fur babies: Landry, Prince, and Blossom.

The Honor Guard from Ft. Hood, Texas will serve as pallbearers. Memorials may be given to The Southwest Parkinson’s Society, 3610 22nd St, Suite 30 Lubbock, Texas 79410.

The family of Lt. Col. Gentine would also like to thank Hendrick Hospice nurses and aides for their kindness and compassion.

Visitation was from 6 PM until 8 PM on Tuesday, July 2, 2019 at The Hamil Family Funeral Home, 6449 Buffalo Gap Road. Funeral Services were 11:30 AM on Wednesday, July 3 at River of Life Church, 539 US-83, Abilene, with Dr. David Ray officiating. Interment followed at 1 PM at the Texas State Veterans Cemetery at Abilene.

Obituary: Click here

Mary Block

September 1947 - May 2019

Mary Evelyn Block, age 71, passed away peacefully on May 19th 2019. She was born September 23th, 1947 in Jacksonville, Texas to Fred and Mamie Childress. She married her best friend and love of her life, Gordon Lee Block in February 1968.

Mary was a dedicated wife and mother first and foremost. She treasured her children and embraced every moment with them. She especially loved her role as Gran. She made friends everywhere she went and would stop and talk to anyone who would engage with her. Mary enjoyed a lengthy career at E-Systems/Raytheon before retiring in 2010

Mary is cherished and survived by her husband Gordon Block, mother Mamie Childress, her sisters Judy Snell and husband Chris and Ann Leach and husband Clifton, son Bryan Block and his wife Lisa, son Mark Block and his wife Kim, Seven grandchildren, McKenna, Kourtney, Morgan, Landry, Hayden, Peyton, and Taytum. In addition, she is survived by many beloved nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

She was preceded in death by her father Fred Childress, and Brother Ray Childress.

Those who loved her deeply will never forget her kindness, loyalty, grace, and undying love and caring she had for them.

Services entrusted to Charles W. Smith & Sons of Lavon, Texas.

Obituary: Click here

John W. Calvert

July 1939 - July 2019

John Wayne Calvert of McKinney, Texas passed away on July 10, 2019 at the age of 80. He was born on July 9, 1939 to Collie and Vergie (Walker) Calvert in Little Elm, Texas. John grew up in Plano, Texas where he graduated from Plano High School in 1959. He married Linda Jordan on September 2, 1976 in Garland, Texas. John worked for E-Systems for 32 years as a maintenance foreman until his retirement. He enjoyed gardening, tractors, ranching, and attending Plano High School football games with his friend of 70 years, R.M. Loftice, and most of all attending any events that his grandchildren were involved. John was of the Methodist faith.

He is survived by his wife, Linda Calvert of McKinney, Texas; children, Dale Hawkins and wife, Kim of McKinney, Texas, Lynn Calvert and wife, Lisa of Farmersville, Texas, and Carole Calvert of Sulphur Springs, Texas; 7 grandchildren; 6 great grandchildren; and a host of other loving family and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Collie and Vergie Calvert; brother Roy H. Calvert; sisters, Mary Ariola, Lillie Marie Moore, and Fannye Hamilton.

A graveside servicewas held at 2:00 p.m., Sunday, July 14, 2019 at Ridgeview Memorial Park, 2525 Central Expressway North, Allen, Texas. The family received friends during a visitation on Saturday evening from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. at the funeral home.

Barney Barnhart

August 1942 - July 2019

Barney J. Barnhart of Garland, Texas, died of ALS, more commonly known as Lou Gehrig’s disease, on July 16, 2019, at Vibra Hospital in Richardson, Texas. He was 76.

Mr. Barnhart was born on Aug. 5, 1942, in Hutchinson, Kansas. He was preceded in death by his granddaughter, Bethany Alyssa Barnhart; and parents, Irene Louise Keeler and John Harrison Barnhart who was killed in Germany during World War II.

He is survived by his wife, Mary, of 56 years; daughter, Melissa; son, John, and daughter-in-law, Mary; grandson, Shawn; great-grandchildren, Caysen and Makynlee; brothers, Orville Barnhart and Mike Keeler, and numerous nieces and nephews.

Barney worked for E-Systems/Raytheon for 42 years and served as an election judge for 20 years. Early on in his career he worked at Aero Commander in Bethany, Okla., and for Blackbear Bosin, a Comanche-Kiowa sculptor and painter, at the Great Plains Studios in Wichita, Kansas. He attended Abilene Christian College in Texas and Friends University in Kansas. Throughout his life he enjoyed model airplane building, painting, and camping and fishing, and dearly loved spending time with his extended family and friends from work and church.

Visitation was held from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Friday, July 19, at Williams Funeral Directors in Garland. A memorial service with Pastor Wayne Wood officiating was held at 1 p.m. on Saturday, July 20, at Williams Funeral Directors. Barney was buried near his granddaughter, Bethany, at 2 p.m. on Monday, July 22, at Our Lady of the Rosary Cemetery in Georgetown, Texas.

Todd Connors

July 1954 - July 2019

Todd Taggart Connors 65, passed away on July 23, 2019 in a Dallas hospital. Todd was born on July 6, 1954 in Trenton, New Jersey.

After graduating from Amber University with a B.A. in 1991, Todd went on to a successful career in Information Technology. During his 35-year-career with E-Systems/Raytheon, Todd achieved many honorable service certificates and awards; including the prestigious recognition for Best of Best in Information Technology, IT professionals, the Raytheon 2003 Excellence in Information Technology Awards.

He is survived by his loving wife, Priscilla Frye, and her four children and their spouses, Terry Lee Frye, (Josephine), Adrian Garret Frye, Anthia Dawn Frye (Michael Joe Brown) and Daniel Lee Austin.

Todd is also survived by his sister, Jane Rehark and husband Jeff: five nephews and their wives and children, Peter Krysinski (Cathy), Greg Krysinski (Marilyn) and their daughter, Madison; Brad Krysinski (Christy) and their children, Kaylee and Connor; Corey Krysinski (Theresa) and Scott Krysinski (Nikki).

Visitation was held from 6:00 - 8:00 pm Monday, July 29, 2019. Funeral services were at 2:00 pm at Moore Bowen Road Funeral Home, 4216 S Bowen Road, Arlington, TX 76016.

In lieu of flowers the family would like any donations to be made in Todd’s memory to www.operationkindness.org or www.pawsinthecity.org as Todd loved his dogs.

Obituary: Click here

Announcements

Mark your calendars! The August meeting will be on the 28th.

I’m still collecting eye glasses for donation to the Lion’s Club. Thank you all who have donated.

Eileen Wahlstrom

E-SYSTEMS/RAYTHEON RETIREES LUNCH GROUP

By Eileen Wahlstrom

June 26, 2019

PRESENT: 45

FIRST TIME: Kim and Joe Quirk, Sam Wilson

LONG TIME: 0

Guests: Joan Swim with the RISD AVID program, Pam Cox (Joe), Anne Lowe (Rick), Marilyn Parsons (Terry), Peggy Wilson (Jim)

SICKNESS:

Stan Baker: is back in hospital . Heart Hospital in Plano Took him over yesterday having lot of sob fluid on left lung they are suppose take it out today and also sack of fluid around heart . Prayers this is simple and he is home shortly.

Jan Bunch (Carrol Bunch’s wife): Fell and hit her face. Had stitches removed last week. She has a mass on her pancreas extending into her lower abdomen...appt with surgeon on 5/6 to discuss surgery! Doctor wants to do an EUS (endoscopic exam of the pancreas) procedure to better asses what’s going on.

Carolyn Gambrell: Bobby’s wife fell and broke her hip while on a trip to Joplin, Missouri. She has been back home for about a month and is slowly healing well thanks to Doctor Bobby.

Raye Ann Farris: Major surgery on her neck yesterday. She is in severe pain post-op. Has chronic pain from her back and previous back surgeries.

Kathy Chesnut: B cell non Hodgkin's lymphoma

Valerie Cox: From Scott Robinson: I visited Valerie one day of each of the last two weeks. Valerie gets up and can walk. She seems in very good spirits and looks forward to getting home. She did mention that her memory was not good. I was friends with Dan Cox and I mentioned a few things and she had no issue knowing what I was talking about.

Deaths

Danny Hoyt Layman

June 17, 2019

Lung mass, adrenal mass, colon mass, internal bleed, spontaneous bleed Into the muscles in the leg...

Memorial service for Danny Layman were held on Friday, June 21, 2019 at Summit Heights Fellowship, Hawkins,TX. In Lieu of flowers donations can be made to East Texas Hospice Care in Tyler, TX or to St. Judes!!!

Charlene Gast

January. 24, 1938 - June 16, 2019

Charlene Rock Gast, 81 years old, of Caddo Mills, Texas, passed away June 16, 2019, after another difficult battle with pneumonia. She was born January 24, 1938, in Samson, Alabama to Charlie and Annie Rock. Services for Charlene are scheduled for 4 p.m. Friday, June 21, 2019, at County Line Baptist Church, Point, with Bro. Wayne Darty officiating. Cremation arrangements are under the direction of Bartley’s Funeral Home, Lone Oak.

Charlene graduated from Samson High School in 1956, where she was an honor student, captain of the varsity cheerleading squad and senior homecoming queen. After high school she moved to Auburndale, FL, where she married Wesley Thompson and started a family with their two children, Lyndon and Terri. After their parting of ways, Charlene met and married the true love of her life, Robert (Bob) Gast in 1965. They spent the majority of their years in Loveland, Ohio where she worked at Procter and Gamble and enjoyed block parties, camping and time spent with all of her friends in Pheasant Hills. She was a member at Mason Baptist Church in Mason, Ohio and served faithfully teaching Sunday school, worked with the youth group every Wednesday night and volunteered every year on mission trips. She was an annual volunteer at the Billy Graham Evangelism Conference in Cincinnati and served the elderly who were homebound and in nursing homes. They moved to Richardson, Texas in 1984, to be closer to their children and first grandchild, Shawn. She worked as an Executive Assistant at E-Systems until 1992 when she began her successful career as a real estate agent until she retired in 2008 and relocated to Caddo Mills, TX to live closer to her daughter and her most beloved “angel”, Mackenzie, who was the highlight and total joy of Charlene’s life. She had a love for travel only exceeded by her love for her family. The highlight of each day was talking and laughing on the phone with her brother and best friend, Dovel. She relished any opportunity to speak with or see her grandchildren and great-grandchildren who lovingly called her “G.G.” Her last day was spent with her son-in law Alan, whom she adored, her dear brother Dovel and sister-in-law Judy, her nephew Jason and his wife Nancy standing at her bedside. She passed away peacefully with both hands held by the two people who loved her the most, her daughter and her husband and soulmate of 54 years, both who will miss her more with each passing day until reunited again with our Lord and Savior in Heaven.

Charlene is survived by her beloved husband, Robert Gast of Caddo Mills; son, Lyndon and Dawn Pemberton of Lucas, TX; daughter, Terri and Alan Schonfeld of Lone Oak, TX; brother, Dovel and Judy Rock of Tuscaloosa, AL; ten grandchildren, Shawn and Tina Mansour of Batavia, OH; Bryan and Lindsey Piccola of Frisco, TX; Mackenzie Mansour of Lone Oak, TX, Austin Schonfeld of Round Rock, TX, Chloe Schonfeld of Fletcher, NC; Wesley and Sas Thompson of Fort Collins, CO; Moriah Thompson and Brock Spratlen of Houston, TX; Colten and Michelle Thompson of Houston, TX, Alison and Shawn Ashmore of Dallas, TX; Andrea and Russell Johnson of Oceanside, CA; three nephews, Stacy, Warren and Jason Rock; nine great-grandchildren, Alexia, Alanna and Shawn Carter Mansour; Finley, Aria and Shiloh Thompson; Dorothy Russell; Bailey and Emory Piccola.

To plant a memorial tree in honor of Charlene Gast (Rock), please visit our Heartfelt Sympathies Store.Heartfelt Sympathies Store

Cassie Allen

January 1961 - May 18, 2019

Passed away from complications due to COPD.

With heavy hearts, at the age of 58, we announce the death of Margaret Allen (Sherman, Texas), who passed away on May 18, 2019. Family and friends are welcome to send flowers or leave their condolences on this memorial page and share them with the family. She was loved and cherished by many people including : her son Greyson; her parents, Chuck Niemann and Sandy Niemann of Denison, Texas; her siblings, Linda Parsons of Houston, Texas, Debra Hickey of Sherman, Barbara Wuebber (Scott) of Belgrade and Chuck Niemann, Jr. (Pat) of Denison; her nieces, Grace Parsons of Norman Oklahoma, Dawn Rennels and April Tocci of Sherman; her nephews, Aiden Tocci, Cody, Connor Niemann of Sherman, Christopher and Brian Wuebber of Belgrade.

Obituary: Click here

Doris Parker Pettigrew

May 1923 - April 2019

PETTIGREW, Doris Laverne Wesson Parker Doris Laverne Pettigrew, of Austin, Texas passed away on Easter Sunday, April 21, 2019 at the age of 95. Doris, aka Mama, began her journey through life on May 7, 1923 in Bardwell, Texas as the youngest daughter of Zula and James Wesson. She, along with her siblings, Claude and Dorothy, lived on a farm and, in Mama's words "enjoyed a comfortable life". Her father owned one of the first tractors in the area and they had tenants to help work the land and help their mother. James Wesson died in 1929 and the Wesson family moved to Boyce, Texas to live with Zula's widowed mother as the Great Depression of the 1930's settled in.

As Mama wrote later in a college assignment, "growing up in the Depression, none of us went beyond high school. But we inherited from our father commitment, discipline and the drive to succeed." And succeed she did. After graduating high school in Waxahachie, she attended Metropolitan Business School in Dallas in 1945 and night classes at El Centro Community College in 1968. In 1946 Doris joined TEMCO, an aircraft manufacturing company that eventually became E-Systems. She began her career as a stenographer, then secretary and with a succession of promotions to estimator, senior cost analyst and contract administrator followed. While working for E-Systems, Doris was given the opportunity to attend Southern Methodist University in Dallas culminating in the award of a Master's Degree in Business Administration in 1981. After 42 years with E-Systems, she retired in 1988.

In 1946, Doris married Joseph Seth Parker in Dallas and, to that union, daughters Cynthia Sue and Darla Jo, joined the Parker family. After 50 years together, Joe passed away in 1996. Mama always stayed close to the E-Systems family and eventually began dating her former colleague, Virgil Pettigrew. After several years of courting, Doris and Virgil were married in Gun Barrel City, Texas in 2005. They enjoyed dining out and dancing, gardening and travel adventures with the extended Pettigrew family. Unfortunately, two years later, Virgil succumbed to cancer in 2007.

Mama remained in Dallas for some time and finally moved to the Austin area in 2008 near her daughter, Darla. While living in Austin in Brookdale at Gaines Ranch, she made many friends and acquaintances and enjoyed the many and varied activities that were offered. Between tai chi, watercolor painting, pottery, crafting and dancing, Doris maintained an active and busy schedule. But her real passion was shopping!

Her brother, Claude Wesson, and sister, Dorothy Wesson Munn and Virgil's son, Hal, predeceased Doris. She is survived by daughter, Cindy and son in law Martin Polluconi, grandson, Brandon, daughter Darla Buckner, and former son in law Roy Buckner, whom Doris loved so dearly, as her own son. Roy was always by her side, at the ready, to help with any and everything she needed. Also survived by dearly loved members of the Pettigrew family, Virgil's children, Karla, Mary, Hal's wife, Peggy and Barry Austin. Special thanks are accorded to the many fine folks at Brookdale at Gaines Ranch who went out of their way to keep Mama happy and comfortable in her golden years. For those wishing to do so, donations to the charity of your choice in Doris' name would be very much appreciated. Doris herself was very active in supporting Alzheimer causes.

Obituary: Click here

Carl Gentine

July 1943 - June 2019

Lt. Col. Carl William Gentine, U.S. Army (Ret.) entered his heavenly home on Saturday, June 29, 2019 at home surrounded by his loving family.

Lt. Col. Gentine was born in Ft. Monmouth, NJ to CWO Paul William and Helen Gentine on July 25, 1943. Being in the military as a child, he moved every three or four years, finishing his senior year of high school in Tustin, CA. Upon graduation from high school, it seemed only likely that he continued with the military life he had enjoyed throughout the year. Carl graduated from the United States Military Academy in 1965, and almost immediately was assigned to Vietnam where he served two tours. After 20 years of service to his beloved country, he retired from the Army. He later went on to work for E-Systems and Raytheon.

Carl was preceded in death by his parents and a daughter, Kerri D. Gentine.

Lt. Col. Gentine is survived by his wife and soulmate, Suzi; daughter, Kristin Gentine and husband Jonathon Roberts; daughter, Stephanie Oxford; son, Thad Oxford and wife Jessica; two brothers, Paul and wife Muriel, and Marc and wife Sue. He was blessed with several grandchildren and great-grandchildren. And last, but never least, his fur babies: Landry, Prince, and Blossom.

The Honor Guard from Ft. Hood, Texas will serve as pallbearers. Memorials may be given to The Southwest Parkinson’s Society, 3610 22nd St, Suite 30 Lubbock, Texas 79410.

The family of Lt. Col. Gentine would also like to thank Hendrick Hospice nurses and aides for their kindness and compassion.

Visitation was from 6 PM until 8 PM on Tuesday, July 2, 2019 at The Hamil Family Funeral Home, 6449 Buffalo Gap Road. Funeral Services were 11:30 AM on Wednesday, July 3 at River of Life Church, 539 US-83, Abilene, with Dr. David Ray officiating. Interment followed at 1 PM at the Texas State Veterans Cemetery at Abilene.

Obituary: Click here

Announcements

Mark your calendars! The July meeting will be on the 31st.

I’m still collecting eye glasses for donation to the Lion’s Club. Thank you all who have donated.

Eileen Wahlstrom

E-SYSTEMS/RAYTHEON RETIREES LUNCH GROUP

By Eileen Wahlstrom

May 29, 2019

PRESENT: 35

FIRST TIME: Done Sivley, Lenny Holt

LONG TIME: 0

Guests: Peggy Wilson (Jim’s new bride) was present at last month’s luncheon and I neglected to mention it. Congratulations Jim and Peggy.

SICKNESS:

Stan Baker Great news folks on Stan Baker he is home as of May 2. Now we begin the process of getting him moving and more healthy. Thanks guys for all your support and prayers could not have done it without you. Update from Sandy.

Jan Bunch (Carrol Bunch’s wife) My wife, Jan has a mass on her pancreas extending into her lower abdomen...appt with surgeon on 5/6 to discuss surgery!

Carolyn Gambrell Bobby’s wife fell and broke her hip while on a trip to Joplin, Missouri. Immediately had total hip replacement and after a week’s stay in the hospital there, they made the 7 hour trip back home and straight to a rehab in Plano.

Deaths

DoloresHowle-German

June 6, 1934 - April 26, 2019

Dolores Howle-German was born June 6, 1934 and passed away into the arms of our Lord and Savior on April 28, 2019. She is survived by her husband, Dale M. German; daughter, Noreen Howle Scruggs and husband Sam Scruggs, and daughter, Melinda Howle; sister, Linda Kunkel Vineyard and husband Howell “Pepper” Vineyard; brother, Marvin Kunkel and wife Lavon Kunkel, along with many nieces, nephews (who referred to her as “Aunt Sissy”), cousins and in-laws. She was preceded in passing by her first husband, Norris Howle; sister, Barbara Kunkel Satterwhite and husband Brad Satterwhite; father and mother, Marvin E. and Agnes Fields Kunkel; and stepmother, Nora Kunkel.

Dolores was born at home, the second of four children, in Laird Hill near Kilgore, Texas. As the daughter of an oil field worker and homemaker, her childhood was spent moving from town to town throughout Texas. Eventually, her family settled in Quitman, Texas where she graduated from high school. Soon thereafter, she met her first love, Norris Howle, also from Quitman. They married while Norris was in the Navy, later moved to Garland, Texas and raised two daughters, Noreen and Melinda. They remained married until Norris’s death in 1979. A few years later, she met the second love of her life, Dale German, while out dancing. After a long courtship, they married in 1997 and shared a wonderfully long and happy life.

Dolores had many hobbies and pastimes she loved to share with family and friends. She loved arts and crafts, gardening and reading and traveling around the world. She was very involved with friends and family. At church, she always took the time for both bible study and volunteer work, including the creation of a funeral care team at Fellowship Dallas. She was a foodie who loved to cook, and her family and friends will certainly miss her wonderful meals. She was also a great friend to animals and loved her cats.

Some of the things we remember most about Dolores are the traits that made her such a wonderful mother and friend. She was kind, loving, generous, and compassionate; a genuinely fun woman who loved life and was always open to learning new things. She had a warm, genuine smile and a kind word for everyone she met. Many considered Dolores one of a kind. With a supernatural faith, she fully trusted in God until her last breath. We are blessed and grateful, beyond measure, to have been a part of her life. Beyond a doubt, hers was a life well lived and a Godly race well run.

In October 2011, Dolores suffered a massive stroke. Since then, Dale has been by her side every day. Now, we say goodbye to our beloved wife and mother. We know she is rejoicing in Heaven, with her Lord and Savior, reunited with loved ones and awaiting our arrival.

Dolores supervised Document Control in Building 580, E-Systems/Raytheon.

Obituary: Click here

Judy McKelvy Broom

July 1943 - April 2019

Judy was born to the late John and Pauline McKelvy, July 26, 1943, in Atlanta, Texas. Judy graduated from Pasadena (Texas) High School in 1961 and received a double BA in English and Journalism from East Texas State University in 1965. (As East Texas State is now Texas A&M-Commerce, she considered herself an honorary Aggie. Whoop!)

Judy was particularly proud of working as a technical editor for NASA during all of the Apollo missions. She went on to become proposal coordinator for Rockwell-Collins and E-Systems. She was still working fulltime as a technical editor and writer for L3 ComCept when she passed.

Judy is survived by daughter, Shonda Kay Purvis (Michael James Tillman); son, Beau Wade Broom (Karen Lynn Miller); grandson, Logan Wade Broom; grandson, Cash Andrew Miller; granddaughter, Blake Lynn Broom; and grandson, Keilan Lane Broom.

In her spare time, Judy loved doting on her grandchildren, loved going to movies and musicals (Rent and Hamilton were particular favorites), enjoyed texting her daughter in Scotland, watched her favorite television programs (pretty sure she is disappointed to not see how The Big Bang Theory ends), and read voraciously (novels, cookbooks, history, pretty much everything).

Judy is also preceded in death by sister, Cynthia Ann Chapman.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to help with the education of Judy's grandson, Logan. It had been her joy to be his guardian for the last several years. To make a donation, please write to loganbroomeducationfund@gmail.com in order to receive information.

Obituary: Click here

Just heard that Bill Woleslagel passed away, RIP

William passed away on Monday, April 29, 2019. William was a resident of Woodbridge, Virginia at the time of passing. Interment will take place at Arlington National Cemetery at a later date. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the DAV: Disabled American Veterans Charity, www.dav.org,... William "Bill" E. Woleslagle, 76, of Woodbridge, died April 29,..

Obituary: Click here

Ann Kruse

May 8, 2019

She had no family and donated her body to a medical school. The son of her best friend said there may be a memorial service in June. I will post details if I get them.

David Angus Scott Jr.

December 15, 1924 - May 26, 2019

David Angus Scott, Age 94, of Dallas, TX, died on May 26, 2019. Interment was at 1:00 pm on Wednesday, May 29 at Hillcrest Memorial Park and was followed by a Memorial Service at Presbyterian Village North.

Dave was with E-Systems for 35 years.

Obituary: Click here

Announcements

I received the note below from the daughter of James Grant, former E-Systems employee. She would love to hear from anyone who remembers him or worked with him. I am including her email address.

tiffany.sellars1@gmail.com.

Click here for a larger version

Hi, my dad worked for E-Systems back in the day. Unfortunately, he passed away in '97 at the young age of 42. I have a picture of the group and would like to share it.

My dad is James Grant II. Front row gray sweater vest. He is my hero.

Thank you,

Tiffany

Mark your calendars! The June meeting will be on the 26th.

I’m still collecting eye glasses for donation to the Lion’s Club. Thank you all who have donated.

Eileen Wahlstrom

E-SYSTEMS/RAYTHEON RETIREES LUNCH GROUP

By Eileen Wahlstrom

April 24, 2019

PRESENT: 30

FIRST TIME: 0

LONG TIME: 0

Guests: 0

SICKNESS:

Mark Jones Mark Jones had quadruple bypass surgery on March 11. His Facebook from the 19th states he is doing fine.

He wrote: “Just to let you know, time, heredity and lifestyle (polish sausage and chicken fried) finally caught up with me. I am scheduled to undergo Bypass Surgery at 5am Monday, 11 March. UT Health, Tyler (formerly ETMC).

This is strictly driven from testing, no symptoms presented. Hopefully will check in on the other side.”

Valerie Cox Fell and broke her hip on April 15th and had to have a hip replacement. She is at Medical City Plano. Update from Glenda Jones: update on Valerie Cox: surgery went fine she was kinda out of it for a while yesterday of course but when I went up there again today she was better. Her son is there. Not really in pain and around noon therapist came with a walker so she could start therapy. They plan for her to be in the hospital a few days (however long that is) and then off to rehab! She’s very positive about recovery (says “after all I’m a Marine!”) I read the comments from y’all to her and I know she appreciates the well wishes. When she goes to rehab I’ll post the details.

Stan Baker Had open heart surgery (five hours.) Stan was moved now in rehab at Christian Care Center in Mesquite room 2132.

From Sandy his wife: He is having some serious doubts about everything it seems. Mostly worried about me he even tells the employees there as well. Think he scared about the outcome of things but we are fine and will be fine if we can get him to moving and eating better . The pneumonia is kicking his butt he said today. This has taken on toll and him and all the family and we are doing the best we can. Please keep your prayers going as we try to work more and more with him . Thanks guys

Deaths

Forest Marshall Cummings

January 1929 - March 2019

Forest M. Cummings, loving husband, father, uncle, grandfather, great grandfather and friend passed away peacefully at his home in Corinth on March 16. He was 90 years old. A resident of Richardson, Texas, for 54 years, he moved to Corinth in 2016 so he could live close to his wife of 68 years after she suffered a stroke and to be nearer his son and daughter-in-law in Denton.

He was born in Crawfordsville, Ind., on January 23, 1929, the only child of Marshall and Ruth Cummings. Following his graduation from high school in 1947, he proudly served in the U.S Navy for three years. He traveled the world while serving his country and also became interested in radio technology. After his honorable discharge from the Navy, he attended Purdue University and received his degree in electrical engineering.

He married the former Sue F. Kline in December 1950, in Crawfordsville, Ind. After graduating from college, he accepted a job with Collins Radio Co. in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, in 1952. He requested a transfer to the company’s offices in Richardson in 1962 and moved his family to Texas that summer. He later worked as a project engineer for Rockwell International and E-Systems. For most of his adult life, he was also an active ham radio enthusiast.

He was preceded in death by his parents and son, Mike.

He is survived by his wife, Sue and son Randy (Vicki) of Denton. His step-grandchildren include Ryan Appleton (Stacey), Ross Appleton (Heather) and Lindsay Cavanaugh (Tom), all of Denton. He is also survived by seven great-grandchildren as well as niece Marla Gladwin and nephew Scott Reg, den, both of North Little Rock, Ark., and nephew Mark Redden of Safe Harbor, Fla.

The family would also like to express its heartfelt appreciation and gratitude to the wonderful staffs at Autumn Oaks of Corinth and the El Dorado Retirement community in Richardson for the love, support and friendship they provided him the last six and a half years.

Memorial Services were held, Monday, April 1, 2019, at 12:30 PM in the Wildwood Chapel at Restland Funeral Home located at 13005 Greenville Ave Dallas, Texas 75243.

Obituary: Click here

Dick Pitts

March 27th, 2019

We celebrated the life and legacy of Dick Pitts on Saturday, April 6th at 2pm at Brookhaven Church in McKinney - 6101 Stacy Rd, McKinney, TX 75070. Dick went home to be with his heavenly father in the early morning hours of Wednesday, March 27th.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to the Alzheimer's Association (https://www.alz.org/) as they continue their research for a cure.

Jim Campbell

June 27, 1947 - April 22, 2019

From Rick Brimlow:

Received sad news that Jim Campbell passed away today.

Update: The service for him will be Monday 4/29 at 11:15 at DFW national cemetery, 2000 Mountain Creek Pkwy, Dallas, TX 75211. There will be no viewing.

Jimmy Dean Campbell was born on June 27, 1947 to Era Mae and DC Campbell. He is preceded in death by his parents, 2 brothers, and 1 sister. He leaves to cherish his memory: His beloved wife of 50 years Lana K. Campbell, two sons: Jimmy D. Campbell (JJ), Jason D. Campbell and daughter Sunny D. Howard. Nine grandchildren: Lio, Joseph, Johnathan, Carissa, Sierra, Siana, Donovan, Joel, and Clayton. Two great grandchildren: Blue and Naeli. Jimmy Campbell enrolled into the Army in the 1960’s. He served as a Vietnam Vet from 1967 to 1969. He went into retirement after his employment with E - Systems (Raytheon). He was a Master Mason and supporter of the Dallas Scottish Rite Hospital. Jimmy was a generous and loving husband, father, and friend. He taught his family the value of honesty, and hard work, and showed kindness to everyone he met. During his early years he enjoyed riding his motorcycle. His greatest love was his wife Lana and his greatest accomplishment was ensuring his family felt supported and loved.

Obituary: Click here

Announcements

I received the note below from the daughter of James Grant, former E-Systems employee. She would love to hear from anyone who remembers him or worked with him. I am including her email address.

tiffany.sellars1@gmail.com.

Click here for a larger version

Historical Marker Update:

The process for acquiring a historical marker is quite involved and not a sure thing. Therefore, I submit another idea. Terry Gaus came up with this idea. There are three bus stops that are in front of the 1200 S. Jupiter Garland location. If there is enough interest, a shelter/bench could be installed at one of them with a short, historical narration of the site. Looks like it would cost around $2,000 and up depending on the style. The metal style bench is more expensive and a separate plaque would need to be attached. Of course, we need to find out if DART would allow this. Terry volunteered to contact the former mayor of Garland, Bob Day, who is also on the DART Board. Maybe we could get some inside pull.

---

Mark your calendars! The May meeting will be on the 29th.

I’m still collecting eye glasses for donation to the Lion’s Club. Thank you all who have donated.

Feel free to send me information for next meeting to

emmawahlstrom@aol.com

Eileen Wahlstrom

E-SYSTEMS/RAYTHEON RETIREES LUNCH GROUP

By Eileen Wahlstrom

March 27, 2019

PRESENT: 43

FIRST TIME: JoAnn Higgs

LONG TIME: Carolyn Boone

Guests: Samantha Nelson (Steve), Evelyn Clovis (George), Maxie Terry (Ken)

SICKNESS:

Jim Campbell - If anyone has info to share about Jim’s health, please email me.The info from his Facebook sounds like he is dealing with cancer.

Phil Wirth Attended today’s luncheon and is doing great after his heart surgery a month ago. Way to go Phil!

Mark Jones Mark Jones had quadruple bypass surgery on March 11. His Facebook from the 19th states he is doing fine.

He wrote: “Just to let you know, time, heredity and lifestyle (polish sausage and chicken fried) finally caught up with me. I am scheduled to undergo Bypass Surgery at 5am Monday, 11 March. UT Health, Tyler (formerly ETMC).

This is strictly driven from testing, no symptoms presented. Hopefully will check in on the other side.”

Deaths

Larry Peoples

April 1, 1949 – March 4, 2019

Son of George Calvin Peoples and Carey Nell Braton. Husband of Joan.

Billy Eaton got in touch with his wife Joan, and she said it was a complication from a knee surgery he had 2 weeks prior. Something associated with the surgery caused a brain hemorrhage, which resulted in a stroke.

Larry Peoples Memorial Service Dallas/Ft. Worth National Cemetery 2000 Mountain Creek Parkway, Dallas, Texas 75211 MAY 3, 2019 (a Friday) at 10am. All services are held during the week and we have a 30 minute time allotted, as there are many services scheduled daily.

Robert “Bob” Arthur Schaefer

November 3, 1941 March 8, 2019

Robert "Bob" Arthur Schaefer was born on November 3, 1941 in Steubenville, Ohio and passed away on March 8, 2019 in Dallas, Texas.

Bob began working for Raytheon in December 1965 and retired over 42 years later as Senior Finance Manager.

Obituary: Click here

Eldon Sparkman

April 1933 - March 2019

Eldon Sparkman, age 85, passed peacefully into heaven on Thursday, March 21, surrounded by a circle of family. He was born in Bristol, Texas to Mack and Ila (Parker) Sparkman on April 13, 1933, and lived his entire life in the Bristol community he loved.

Eldon married Peggy Pratt on September 2, 1952, and began a loving marriage that lasted sixty-six years. Eldon adored and bragged about his “Peggy Sue,” and loved to tell others (especially his grandchildren) about their many years together and his hopes that all family marriages would be equally enduring.

After graduating from Ferris High School in 1952, Eldon enlisted in the Air Force. He was stationed in Biloxi, Mississippi for four years and worked as a math instructor at the Air Force base. He and Peggy cherished the memories they made and the adventures they shared in Biloxi, returning often to vacation there. And all who knew Eldon well remember how much he loved talking about Biloxi. In fact, close friends and family referred to Biloxi as “the B word,” meaning, “Don’t mention ‘the B word’ unless you want to hear another long story about Biloxi.”

After military service, Eldon and Peggy returned to Bristol where they raised their three children: Ricky, Cindy, and Tim. Eldon instilled a strong work ethic in his children by example, being employed for thirty-five years at E-Systems in Garland while also raising cattle, producing hay, and briefly farming with his brother, Jack.

Obituary: Click here

Announcements

Historical Marker Update:

TThe process for acquiring a historical marker is quite involved and not a sure thing. Therefore, I submit another idea. Terry Gaus came up with this idea. There are three bus stops that are in front of the 1200 S. Jupiter Garland location. If there is enough interest, a shelter/bench could be installed at one of them with a short, historical narration of the site. Looks like it would cost around $2,000 and up depending on the style. The metal style bench is more expensive and a separate plaque would need to be attached. Of course, we need to find out if DART would allow this. Terry volunteered to contact the former mayor of Garland, Bob Day, who is also on the DART Board. Maybe we could get some inside pull.

---

Mark your calendars! The April meeting will be on the 24th.

I’m still collecting eye glasses for donation to the Lion’s Club. Thank you all who have donated.

Feel free to send me information for next meeting to

emmawahlstrom@aol.com

Eileen Wahlstrom

E-SYSTEMS/RAYTHEON RETIREES LUNCH GROUP

By Eileen Wahlstrom

February 27, 2019

PRESENT: 34

FIRST TIME: 0

LONG TIME: 0

Guests: 0

SICKNESS:

Phil Wirth - Had “mild” heart attack last week. We sent a card. Will be having aortic valve replacement March 5th. It is 80% blocked. No open heart surgery.

Jim Campbell - If anyone has info to share about Jim’s health, please email me.The info from his Facebook sounds like he is dealing with cancer.

Carroll Lochridge Carroll came a couple of times with Terry Parsons. Terry received this email from Carroll: “Nancy and I have been in and out of Drs offices past 6 months…..Nancy has had thyroid problems and been going thru tests to see what’s going on. I have been going thru neurology tests., heart tests, and lung tests……Main thing that’s shown up so far is back and neck problems which have been causing hand numbness and inability to walk for short periods. Trying therapy first because surgery would prevent me from doing any lifting or other activities, including driving a car, for several months.”

Deaths

Annn Bryant

April 1938 - February 2019

From Jerry, Ann’s husband and ESY-RTN retiree.

I lost my wife, Ann Bryant, this morning, Sunday, 24 February 2019, in Garland, Texas.

Ann was 80 years old and was born on a Friday, the 15th of April, 1938 in Jackson, Mississippi.

Ann and I were one of the many E-Systems marriages. In April of 1980 I was walking down the main hallway at work and Ann was walking up. She stopped me at the entrance to the Reception Area and asked if I would like to go to a departmental party that Tech Pubs was having that month to celebrate the April birthdays in the department. Hers was one of them. I made a beautiful first impression. I said, “Uh, can I let you know?” I’m sure she walked off thinking, well so much for that. You see, I was separated at the time and she thought I was divorced. After thinking it over I thought, why not. I liked her and it would be good going to a party. I called her and asked if the offer was still good and she said yes. Lucky for me. I filed for a divorce two weeks later. We have been together now for almost 39 years.

Ann had never fired a gun in her life until I took her to Target Master across from the plant. Even with hearing protection on, when she first shot a .22 cal. revolver she jumped back about a foot. We worked our way up through various larger calibers until she was shooting the .357 magnum. She was deadly accurate with it. No flinching. No jumping. I was so proud of her.

Ann was a good woman in so many ways. She was strong in so many ways. She was very good for me.

Ann started working for E-Systems in 1973 and retired from E-Systems/Raytheon in 2000. Twenty-seven years. She held several jobs, the longest being over Word Processing while in Tech Pubs. At one time she was Vice-President of the Management Club.

Ann was a very good sport as you can see from some of these pictures. Down deep she was a real ham. Even with all the pain and discomfiture she was telling stories and making others laugh up close to the end. She died from lung cancer even though she never smoked. Her father was a heavy smoker.

There will be no funeral at this time. Her cremains will be kept at home and buried at Restland in the Garden of Love at a later date. There will be a Celebration of Life at that time.

“While we are mourning the loss of our friend others are rejoicing to meet him behind the veil.” John Taylor, 1753-1824

Eric Lloyd Victor

April 1946 - February 2019

On February 2,2019, Eric Lloyd Victor, devoted husband to Noreen Victor, beloved father to Alison Victor and Matthew (Kendra) Victor, loving grandfather to Chase Victor, dear brother to Richard Victor, also survived by numerous relatives and wonderful friends.

A Memorial Service will be held on Sunday, February 10,2019 at 1 p.m. at the Church on the Square, 1025 S. Potomac Street, Baltimore,MD 21224. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Maryland Food Bank

Lonza "Dick" R. Dickerson

July 23, 1936 - February 22, 2019

(U.S. Veteran) Lonza “Dick” R. Dickerson, 82, passed away February 22, 2019 at Goshen Hospital. He was born July 23, 1936 in Hodgenville, KY to Hugh & Mary (Bennett) Dickerson.

On February 20, 1969 he married Bonnie Harbaum; she survives along with 2 children, Donald (Sheila) Dickerson, 4 grandchildren, Robert Dickerson, Andrew Dickerson and Catherine (Mariah) Ferraro. Also surviving are 6 siblings, Janet, Janey, Rozelle, Hugh, Glenn, William and numerous other family members.

Dick was a U.S. Air Force Veteran serving in Vietnam from 1957-1969, was a member of the Goshen V.F.W, D.A.V. and St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church. In his spare time he enjoyed woodworking.

There will be a private family celebration of life service at a later date.

In lieu of flowers please send memorial contributions to the Goshen D.A.V.

Elkhart Cremation Services has been entrusted with the arrangements.

Announcements

Historical Marker Update:

TThe process for acquiring a historical marker is quite involved and not a sure thing. Therefore, I submit another idea. Terry Gaus came up with this idea. There are three bus stops that are in front of the 1200 S. Jupiter Garland location. If there is enough interest, a shelter/bench could be installed at one of them with a short, historical narration of the site. Looks like it would cost around $2,000 and up depending on the style. The metal style bench is more expensive and a separate plaque would need to be attached. Of course, we need to find out if DART would allow this. Terry volunteered to contact the former mayor of Garland, Bob Day, who is also on the DART Board. Maybe we could get some inside pull.

---

Mark your calendars! The March meeting will be on the 27th.

I’m still collecting eye glasses for donation to the Lion’s Club. Thank you all who have donated.

Feel free to send me information for next meeting to

emmawahlstrom@aol.com

Eileen Wahlstrom

E-SYSTEMS/RAYTHEON RETIREES LUNCH GROUP

By Eileen Wahlstrom

January 30, 2019

PRESENT: 41

FIRST TIME: Johnny Graves, Dan Corpman

LONG TIME: None

Guests: Rudy and JoAnn Mueller (Merle Mueller’s brother and Sister-n-Law)

SICKNESS:

Phil Wirth - Had “mild” heart attack last week. We sent a card. Will be having aortic valve replacement March 5th. It is 80% blocked. No open heart surgery.

Ann Bryant - Her cancer is advancing. She is on hospice care in her home. Her daughter is living with them to help Jerry. Keep her and the family in your prayers.

Jim Campbell - If anyone has info to share about Jim’s health, please email me.

Deaths

Carl (Skipper)Cox

January 1951 - December 2018

Carl “Skipper” Alexander Cox, 67, passed away peacefully at his home on December 27, 2018. He was born in Ft. Worth, Texas on January 27, 1951 to Cecil and Charlotte Cox. His childhood years were spent in Fort Worth, Abilene and Garland. He graduated from South Garland High School, class of 1969, and became a licensed mortician, working in the family business of a close friend.

Shortly thereafter, he met and married his wife, Marilou Baker. They were wed on July 12, 1975 and shared 43 loving years together. He worked at the family furniture store and then took a management position with a local cabinet and construction company. He went on to receive a bachelor’s degree in business from University of Texas at Dallas. Afterwards, he joined E-Systems, which became Raytheon, where he worked for 20 years as part of their Human Resources management team. He was responsible for labor arbitration and negotiations and helped teach and support employees at a US government facility in Alice Springs, Australia.

Throughout this time, Skipper was heavily involved in the community and was recognized with numerous awards. He served as a commissioner of the Garland Softball Association and was a member of the Board from 1982- 2014. He helped start a slow-pitch youth softball league and coached a team for many years. He also served as part of Leadership Garland and mentored students from Mari’s classes. After retirement, he continued to stay active supporting his family, friends and community. He loved building projects and smoking meat for his family and friends. He also enjoyed spending time at the family beach house, walking his dog Lexi in the waves, and playing with his grandkids.

Skipper was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and brother, setting an example with his generous spirit. He is survived by his wife Mari; his daughter Lindsey and his son Adam; his grandchildren Ellie, Rosalie and Sam; his siblings Jackie and Bill; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and other extended family members.

The family wishes to express its gratitude for the loving care provided by MD Anderson as Skipper fought his battle against cancer and to the Hospice team from Kindred. The family requests memorial donations be made to MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston.

DONATIONS

Merle Mueller

December 1924 - January 2019

Merle C. Mueller, 94, of Sun City, Texas passed away on Thursday, January 3rd. After he graduated from Thomas Jefferson High School in San Antonio, he attended the University of Texas, Austin, graduating with a Bachelors in Aeronautical Engineering with a Naval Reserve Commission. After his military service he was employed with Luscombe Airplane Company in Garland, then Temco (subsequently acquired by LTV). He retired from E-Systems in 1979, having served as Vice President. He met and fell in love with Wanda Stover. They married in 1949. Their son, Gary, was born in 1951 and was tragically killed in an auto accident in 1971, a devastating loss to both of them.

After retirement, he and Wanda enjoyed traveling, gardening and raising longhorn cattle on their small property in Rowlett. He and Wanda loved the hill country and finally found and moved to the location of their dreams in Sun City in 1996. They were greatly dedicated to their community through their involvement in the Nature Club, the Garland Club, COPS and volunteered many years at the Baylor Scott & White Hospital in Round Rock. Merle helped plan and design The Worship Place in Sun City and they were active members until his death.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Rheinhardt and Edith Vollmer Mueller of San Antonio, his wife Wanda and their son, Gary. He is survived by his brother, Rudy and his wife, JoAnn Bradley Mueller of Dallas, two nieces, one nephew and their families. Contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society or other charity of your choice.

A celebration of life was held on Sunday January 6, 2019 at 3:00 pm at the Eastgate Funeral Home Chapel in Garland, Texas with burial following at Restland Memorial Park in Dallas, Texas.

Obituary: Click here

Finis Grinke

January 16, 2019

GRINKE, Anthony Finis 81, a resident of Daphne Alabama and a native of Dallas Texas, passed away January 16, 2019, in Mobile Alabama. He is survived by his wife, Judith D. Grinke, stepdaughter Cameron Wilkinson (Ken) , stepson Chris Adams (April), six grandchildren; 3 nephews Glen Robinson, Richard Robinson and Steven Robinson; and dear friend Glen Smoot. Celebration of his life to be held February 2, 2019 at 11:00 am, 8254 County Road 64 Daphne Alabama.

Published in Dallas Morning News on Jan. 30, 2019

Obituary: Click here

Announcements

Mark your calendars! The February meeting will be on the 27th.

I’m still collecting eye glasses for donation to the Lion’s Club. Thank you all who have donated.

Feel free to send me information for next meeting to

emmawahlstrom@aol.com

Eileen Wahlstrom

E-SYSTEMS/RAYTHEON RETIREES LUNCH GROUP

By Eileen Wahlstrom

December 26, 2018

PRESENT: 18

FIRST TIME: Kermit Lancaster

LONG TIME: None

Guests: Lisa Crowe (Eileen’s sister)

SICKNESS:

Ann Bryant - Her cancer is advancing. She is on hospice care in her home. She appreciated the card we sent.

Johnny Gardner - Had heart valve replacement on November 28th. He contracted pneumonia and the flu. He is still sick and coughing a lot.

Carol Kalenda - Update on my surgery: The dr told my sister the joint device is tracking well, which I assume is a good thing, I’ll ask him about that tomorrow when I see him. He also said my bones are hard as rocks, which is probably why I can be so hard headed and stubborn at times 😬. The pain meds are working great on my knee, but my hip is pretty sore. Thank you for all of your wonderful prayers, I truly appreciate them. Our awesome God is definitely listening to them

Deaths

Ollie Leonard Mayfield Jr

June 1938 - August 2018

Ollie Leonard Mayfield Jr., 80, of Garland, Tx. passed away on August 15 2018. He was born June 17, 1938 in Waxahachie, TX to Ollie and Eddie Mayfield. Len was an IT engineer and served in the United States Navy. He loved fishing and hunting, as well as working with his hands such as wood working and building. Len loved to play dominos as well as build computers.

He is survived by his wife, Carole Mayfield whom he married on February 14, 1969; son, Lance Mayfield and his wife Jana; daughters, Pam Slate and Kimberly Mayfield; grandchildren, Christopher, Margaret, Donald, and Nicholas and wife Nicole; great-grandchildren, Morgan and Toby; and many other loving relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the American Heart Association.http://www.heart.org/

Bob Pettit

Lil Abston sent me this from her church bulletin. I couldn’t locate an obituary.

James (Jim) B. Gambill

November 1932 – December 2018

James Baskin Gambill, born in San Gabriel, TX to Harry and Maida (Jones) Gambill on January 15, 1932. He Married Lovice Goodin, February 23, 1958, two sons were born to their union.

He graduated from Thorndale High School, served four years in the Air Force and worked 23 years at E-Systems. After retirement he volunteered at the Friendship House for ten years until he broke his leg in 2010 and has been in declining health since that time. He was preceded in death by his parents, one brother, three sisters, one nephew and niece. He is survived by his wife Lovice, two sons: Dennis and wife Tina, Terry and wife Cindy, Five Grand kids Chris, “Jennifer”, Cody, “Courtney”, Chase, Kayce and Corey. Three great grand kids: Collins, Clayton, Caylor, one sister, Mary McFadden, Sister in Law, Kay and Earl Nicholson and several nieces and nephews.

Funeral services for Mr.James Baskin Gambill were held Tuesday 1:00 PM on December 11, 2018 at First Baptist Church – Garland with visitation one hour prior.

Kevin Marler

May 1950 - December 2018

Kevin Morris Marler passed away Monday, December 17, 2018, at the age of 68. Kevin was born May 6, 1950, in Pocatello, Idaho to Marvin Glenn Marler and Dorothy Jeanette Redd Marler. He is survived by his wife of 44 years, Barbara Kay Bouchard Marler; married son Jon (Monica) Marler of Austin, Texas, and married daughter Christina (Chip) Bailey of Frisco, Texas; two grandchildren: Kayla Woods and Pierce Bailey of Frisco, Texas. Kevin retired in 2007 after a 21 year career at Raytheon E-Systems.

Obituary: Click here

Announcements

Mark your calendars! The January meeting will be on the 30th.

I’m still collecting eye glasses for donation to the Lion’s Club. Thank you all who have donated.

Feel free to send me information for next meeting to

emmawahlstrom@aol.com

Eileen Wahlstrom

E-SYSTEMS/RAYTHEON RETIREES LUNCH GROUP

By Eileen Wahlstrom

NOVEMBER 28, 2018

PRESENT: 38

FIRST TIME: Paul Fontenot, Brenda Johnson

LONG TIME: Rick Lowe

Guests: 0

SICKNESS:

Ann Bryant: – From Jerry on Nov. 20th -“Hey, Eileen. Ann is doing as well as could be expected I guess. She had a catscan and it showed that the cancer has spread to her spine and breastplate. I’m concerned about her falling and maybe breaking a bone but she is an independent cuss and doesn’t like to use her walker or cane. She is very careful in moving around though. We are on our third Hospice organization. We just didn’t feel good about the first one and the second one was sort of Mickey Mouse except for their physical therapist. Ann and I both liked her. The Hospice we have now doesn’t have a physical therapist but Ann knows what exercises to do. She will now have a nurse coming twice a week and an aide will come five days a week if we want her but for right now the aide comes on Fridays only, to help Ann bathe. They do have some kind of volunteer group who will come and sit with Ann when I have to go out and keep her company. We haven’t tried that yet but it is nice to know. The new Hospice lady told us there are around 400 Hospices in the DFW area. Ann’s main problem right now is back pain. For that she takes hydrocodone, a pain medicine. It is not immediate but when it does kick in it gives her some relief. The nights and mornings are the worst times of day. Once we get up and get settled for the day it is a lot better. This caregiving is not easy. I can’t recall ever being this tired in my life. Stress has a lot to do with it. Her two daughters were coming by on Saturdays but they realized how tired I am and her youngest daughter now comes Tuesday and Thursday evenings also and is with her for a while. If fact she is here now. This gives me time to relax. Her other daughter lives next door but gets home late every day from work but she stops in a couple times each week. That is nice. I think Ann has medicine for any eventuality but it is a scary life.

Johnny Gardner Had heart valve replacement on November 28th. Johnny posted on Thursday that he was out of surgery and doing fine.

Deaths

Jeff Koch

may 1963 - November 2018

KOCH JEFFREY WESCOTT KOCH Passed away unexpectedly with his beloved wife by his side on November 3, 2018, after a courageous battle with liposarcoma. He was 55. The son of Janice Park Koch and the late Franklin Wescott Koch, Jeff was born on May 6, 1963, in Plainfield, NJ. He graduated from Warrensburg High School in Warrensburg, Missouri in 1981 and received his Bachelor of Science degree in Electrical Engineering from the University of Missouri-Rolla in 1985. He was an Eagle Scout and a passionate member of the Boy Scouts of America, serving in multiple positions including District Commissioner for Washington, DC. He was also a member of the Boy Scouts' Tribe of Mic-O-Say organization. In January 2017, Jeff was appointed Deputy Assistant Secretary for Administration and Management at U.S. Department of Labor. He previously held various appointed positions at the U.S. Department of Labor as well as the White House Office of Management and Budget, during which time he received a letter of commendation from President George W. Bush. Between 1998 and 2002, Jeff served as chief of staff for his friend and fellow Eagle Scout, Rep. Pete Sessions. Prior to his time in Washington D.C., Jeff worked as an engineer at RF Monolithics, Inc. and E-Systems in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. Jeff is survived by his wife of seven years, Patty Stolnacker, and his expected daughter, due in January. He is also survived by his mother, Janice Koch, of Rowlett, Texas; his sister, Jennifer Leigh Davenport, with husband Mark and children Bryce and Hannah, of Rockwall, Texas; his brother, Barry Franklin Koch, with wife Claudia and children Lara and Julie, of Ingolstadt, Germany; and his loyal friend, Lincoln. Jeff was an adored husband, son and brother, a beloved friend and confidante, and a tireless volunteer. He was passionate about cycling, engineering, nature, and music. He made a lasting difference to every endeavor he pursued. Jeff brought his engineering acumen and sense of fun to everything he did, providing joy and lasting memories of Halloween haunted houses, Olympic festivities, and epic water slides to his Palisades neighborhood. Memorial services will begin on Friday, November 9, 2018 with a visitation at the Everly Wheatley Funeral Home in Alexandria, Virginia from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m., followed by a service on Saturday, November 10, 2018 at 3 p.m. at the Fairlington United Methodist Church in Alexandria, Virginia. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests sending memorial contributions in Jeff's name to Cycle for Survival's team Tour de Cure - DC: http://mskcc.convio.net/goto/JeffKoch. Please view and sign the family guestbook at www.everlywheatley.comwww.everlywheatley.com

Obituary: Click here

Announcements

Mark your calendars! The December meeting will be on the 26th.

I’m still collecting eye glasses for donation to the Lion’s Club. Thank you all who have donated.

Feel free to send me information for next meeting to

emmawahlstrom@aol.com

Eileen Wahlstrom

E-SYSTEMS/RAYTHEON RETIREES LUNCH GROUP

By Eileen Wahlstrom

October 31, 2018

HOST: Terry Gaus, in the absence of Eileen Wahlstrom, who was out for foot surgery

PRESENT: 35

FIRST TIME: Joe Mansour

LONG TIME: Ken Linton, Dennis York

Guests: Julie Jansen, guest of Julie Gilbert

SICKNESS:

Gary Andrews: is “under the weather” - mentioned by those in attendance - no additional details provided.

Dennis York: provided a rather extensive narrative of his bout from late 2016 through late 2017 with cellulitis and sepsis, which very nearly killed him. He’s still walking with a cane, nearly 12 months after his “recovery”.

Heather Kelly: Rita Hall’s daughter has completed her chemo treatments and her prognosis looks great!

Max Lee: Scott Robinson reported that Max has been ill and taking steroids. This is affecting his organs and brain. Max messaged me on Facebook saying that he will be getting a pacemaker soon and is hopeful that most of his issues will go away.

Ann Bryant: Jerry Bryant notified me of Ann’s illness. Here is his description of her illness.

“Eileen, I would like to clarify Ann’s cancer. She has had a spot of her left lung for about nine years and it has been noticed several times. One doctor at one time told her it was nothing to worry about. In the latest checkup they determined that it was lung cancer and the x-ray showed a small spot on her spine. The oncologist at Texas Oncology (Presbyterian) prescribed chemo pills for her in the dosage of 20 mg but she was actually given 40 mg pills, double the dose the doctor said. She took 14 of the pills and had such a severe reaction to them that she had to be taken to emergency at Presbyterian. She was there for nine days and the hospital doctor told her they had done all they could for her and she was to be sent home to Home Hospice.

The thing is, Ann was perfectly o.k. until she took the pills. You would never have known anything was wrong. The pills knocked her for such a loop and made her so weak. That’s when the problems began. She firmly believes that she does not have cancer and will have further x-rays taken later this month or early next month. We will know then for sure.

The Hospice they recommended wanted to bring in everything including the kitchen sink (gouging Medicare?). Double this, double that, and the bed they brought in was disgusting. It would not raise or lower and the two sides they furnished for it were abominable. One would not fit on the bed and the other fit but wobbled and leaned inward. Plus the painting on it was peeling like crazy. It was depressing to look at. I had them pick up everything and bought a nice adjustable bed and what she needs. She stays very comfortable in the bed and a La-Z-Boy recliner. And the medicine! Good grief! Hospice’s main goal I believe is to keep the patient comfortable and they furnished prescription after prescription. The Hospice nurse was having her take pills for depression but we found out the hard way that depression medication depletes the body of sodium and that meant another trip to emergency, this time to Baylor/Dallas. She was there for six days. Sodium has to be replenished very slowly or it can be fatal.

We now have another Hospice/Healthcare outfit taking care of her and a nurse comes in once a week and a physical therapist twice a week. She has a walker and a cane and is slowly able to walk a short distance without using either of them. She is getting stronger but is really still too weak to do much. She lost a lot of weight and it is difficult putting it back on because she eats so little, which is her choice.

I guess the main thing we have learned from this is to watch the medications you take. But, how do you know, if a medical person is prescribing them?

Deaths

Donald Bowne

August 21, 1933 - October 11, 2018

Donald Bowne was born on August 21,1933 in Cisco, Texas to William Hodges Bowne and Birdie Jones Bowne. He graduated from Moran High School in 1951 and attended Tarelton Junior College, where he was in the Corp and was awarded a medal for being the neatest cadet. Don graduated in 1953 and moved on to Texas A&M University, graduating in the class of '55 with a civil engineering degree. Mr. Bowne spent 21, years working at E-Systems, followed by another 22 years at Vertex Communication Corporation before retiring to spend time enjoying his hobbies of fishing, hunting and playing golf. He was a long-time member and elder at First Christian Church of Kilgore.

Left to cherish his memory are Peggy, his wife of 62 years; brother, William Kelly Bowne of Austin; daughter and son-in-law Kevin and Gayla Baxter of Kilgore; son and daughter-in-law David and Paula Bowne of Brookfield, Massachusetts; daughter and son-in-law Michael and LaDonna Fasang of Dallas; granddaughters Maci Bowne, Blair Baxter and Madison Fasang; grandsons Mitch Fasang and Max Fasang; and several close cousins.

He is preceded in death by his parents, and grandson, Blake Bowne.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that any donations be made to the First Christian Church memorial fund.

The family will receive friends at Rader Funeral Home Sunday afternoon between 4:00 – 6:00 p.m.

Bobby Wilson Gilpin

August 2, 1940 – October 6, 2018

Born August 2nd 1940 in Teague, Texas to Fay and Woodrow Gilpin, he is a true son of the state. His Texas roots begin with settlers in the 1820s, and trace through the rich history of The Republic of Texas and its subsequent statehood. His early years were marked by life in several small towns in Texas and Oklahoma as the family moved around to follow the oil boom. After graduating from Corsicana High School in 1958, Bobby attended The Agricultural and Mechanical College of Texas, now known as Texas A&M University. Upon his graduation in 1962 as a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering, he began his career with LTV Electronics in Garland. Over the subsequent decades, while the company’s name and ownership would change, becoming E-Systems, Raytheon E-Systems, and finally Raytheon, Bobby worked within the same organization for his entire career.

It was at LTV that he met Gloria Cope, with whom he was united in holy matrimony on June 11, 1966. Their union was blessed with two children; Wesley in 1971, and Katherine in 1974.

After retirement from Raytheon, Bobby attended Dallas Theological Seminary, graduating in 2006 as a Master of Arts in Biblical Studies. It was here that he fell in love with God’s Word, igniting his passion for knowing God, and making Him known. While always a servant of The Lord, this new passion would drive him the remainder of his days, through physical and emotional trials, to share the glory of God and the promise of the Gospel with all he met.

Preceded in death by his parents and brother Ronny Woodrow Gilpin, Bobby is survived by his loving wife of 52 years Gloria Gilpin, his children Wesley (Ansley) Gilpin, Katherine (Sam) Renz, and grandchildren Anna and Adalind Gilpin.

In lieu of flowers please consider a donation, in memory of Bobby, to Dallas Theological Society Dallas Theological Seminary 3909 Swiss Ave Dallas, Texas 75204

Announcements

Mark your calendars! The November meeting will be on the 28th.

I’m still collecting eye glasses for donation to the Lion’s Club. Thank you all who have donated.

In remembrance of the beloved Santa’s Program, I’ll take any donations of non perishable food items to The Good Samaritan of Garland. You can bring donations to the October or November meetings. Thank you!

Feel free to send me information for next meeting to

emmawahlstrom@aol.com

Eileen Wahlstrom

E-SYSTEMS/RAYTHEON RETIREES LUNCH GROUP

By Eileen Wahlstrom

September26, 2018

PRESENT: 37

FIRST TIME: Sharon Haught, Connie Self

LONG TIME: Marti & Marty Kovacs

Guests: Pam Cox (Joe), Dianne Montgomery (Mark)

SICKNESS:

Heather Kelly: – Rita Hall’s daughter has completed round 10 of 12 of her chemo. Keep her in your prayers.

Kim Hartson: - SSue Hartson’s daughter is back with Sue. She went to her San Francisco home for a brief stay. She still needs our prayers.

Yvonne McGregor – Yvonne is doing well after heart surgery. She attempted an outing with the lady friends but had to return home. Maybe soon.

Max Lee Scott Robinson reported that Max has been ill and taking steroids. This is affecting his organs and brain. Max will have a pacemaker soon and hopefully most of his problems will be resolved.

Mark Montgomery Mark attended the luncheon and told us about his recent illness with bronchitis that turned into pneumonia. Glad he is better and was able to attend today.

Deaths

Paul Harper

- August 2018

Paul Lavon Harper passed away at his home in Boyd, Texas Friday, 31 August 2018, from Dementia and he was 81. Paul worked at E-Systems in the seventies and went to Arlington with the Postal group and retired from there. He is survived by his wife Alice, sons Ricky and Derrick, daughter Tammy. Five grand children and four great grand children.

Paul was cremated and his service was September 11, 1:00 pm, at Hilltop Family Church in Springtown, Texas.

Don Dee Divinia

October 1939 – July 2018

Don Divinia, 78, of Greenville, passed away July 17, 2018. A graveside service was held 10:00 AM Monday, July 23, 2018 at Weaver Cemetery (TX) with Brother Danny Moore officiating. Dustin Divinia, Darin Divinia, Gene Pilgrim, Paul McCormick, John Yeager and Will Beene will serve as pallbearers.

Don was born in Hutchison, Kansas on October 11, 1939 to Lowell and Alma (Diamond) Divinia. He received his Bachelor’s Degree from MIT and was a Senior Engineer Specialist for Raytheon. He is survived by his wife Margaret Goswick (Stapleton) of Greenville, Texas whom he married October 22, 2004.

Those left to cherish his memory are sister Nancy (Dan) Newland; sons, Dustin Divinia, Darin Divinia (Dawn); step-daughters, Carol Robinson, Mildred Goswick; and step-son Eddi Goswick; grandsons, Dylan Divinia, Derek Divinia; step-grandchildren Kristy Robinson, Heather Ussery, Nicole Ficher, Matt Goswick, Emily Goswick, and Rachel Goswick, and 9 step-great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents and step-grandson David Robinson.

Obituary: Click here

L.B. Lin

March 1947 – September 2018

L.B. Lin of Allen, Texas passed away on September 4, 2018 at the age of 71. He was born on March 7, 1947 in Taiwan to Chin-Long and Gee Shen Lin. L.B. was raised in Taiwan. He earned a bachelor’s degree from National Taiwan University in Mechanical Engineering and is a graduate of Princeton University where he earned his Ph.D. in Geophysical Fluid Dynamics. L.B.’s career included working for NCAR (National Center for Atmospheric Research), Arco, and E-Systems. He retired from Raytheon in 2004.

L.B. is survived by his wife, Shian-Lee Lin of Allen, Texas; sons, Michael C. Lin and wife, Lat of McKinney, Texas and Jason C. Lin and wife, Hanna of Allen, Texas; grandchildren, Lily Lin, Kara Lin, Melody Lin, and Taylor Lin; brothers, Liang-Tsai Lin and wife, Helen of San Jose, California and Liang-Shiou Lin and wife, Jihjing of Gaithersburg, Maryland; sister, Tze-Wen Yang of Taiwan; and numerous other loving family and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Chin-Long and Gee Shen Lin.

A remembrance gathering was held on Saturday, September 15, 2018 from 1:00-3:00 p.m. at Turrentine-Jackson-Morrow Funeral Home, 2525 Central Expressway North, Allen, Texas.

Announcements

Mark Montgomery wants us to come watch and hear his band, The Plano Community Band, perform at The Eisemann on November 11th at 2:30. Sounds like fun!

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Mark your calendars! The October meeting will be on the 31st.

I’m still collecting eye glasses for donation to the Lion’s Club. Thank you all who have donated.

In remembrance of the beloved Santa’s Program, I’ll take any donations of non perishable food items to The Good Samaritan of Garland. You can bring donations to the October or November meetings. Thank you!

Feel free to send me information for next meeting to

emmawahlstrom@aol.com

Eileen Wahlstrom

E-SYSTEMS/RAYTHEON RETIREES LUNCH GROUP

By Eileen Wahlstrom

August 29, 2018

PRESENT: 44

FIRST TIME: 0

LONG TIME: 0

Guests: Mariann Parsons (Terry), Janet Bunch (Carrole)

SICKNESS:

Dottie Vaughn: Darrell Lancaster called to check on Larrie. His A-Fib is under control and he is finished with the “Life Vest”. I sent a card that we all signed.

Dottie was at the luncheon and said she was much better.

Heather Kelly: – Rita Hall’s daughter just completed round 7 of 12 of her chemo. Keep her in your prayers. Rita sent me a text stating Heather’s appreciation for our card. Rita hopes to be back to the monthly luncheons in October.

Kim Hartson: - Sue Hartson’s daughter is doing somewhat better and is back at Sue’s house. She has been through and continues to suffer with so much. Remember her in your prayers as well.

Gary Smith: Has anyone heard how Gary is doing from his surgery last month?

Yvonne McGregor – Yvonne had to undergo heart surgery last week. She had a valve replaced. Bertha said she went home after a brief stay at the hospital and is recovering well. We sent a card from our group

Deaths

The Way Back Machine:

LUSCOMBE AIRCRAFT, Garland about 1945

Luscombe Aircraft moved their aircraft manufacturing to Jupiter Road near Garland around 1945. Notice the countryside along Forest Lane at the bottom of the photo. The train track which is now DART Rail and the farm house that became the site for the E-Systems Corporate office in much later years.

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Mark your calendars! The September meeting will be on the 26th.

I’m still collecting eye glasses for donation to the Lion’s Club. Thank you all who have donated.

Feel free to send me information for next meeting to

emmawahlstrom@aol.com

Eileen Wahlstrom

E-SYSTEMS/RAYTHEON RETIREES LUNCH GROUP

By Eileen Wahlstrom

July 25, 2018

PRESENT: 38

FIRST TIME: 0

LONG TIME: Jeff McReany

Guests: 0

SICKNESS:

Larrie Judd: Darrell Lancaster called to check on Larrie. His A-Fib is under control and he is finished with the “Life Vest”. I sent a card that we all signed.

Carrole Bunch: His wife’s dental issues are back to normal. She had a good report.

Heather Kelly: – Rita Hall’s daughter just completed round 6 of 12 of her chemo. Keep her in your prayers. I sent her a card we signed as well.

Kim Hartson: Sue Hartson’s daughter is doing somewhat better and is back at Sue’s house. She has been through and continues to suffer with so much. Remember her in your prayers as well.

Gary Smith: Recovering from surgery in the hospital

Deaths

Sharon Denton

August 1945 - July 2018

Sharon L. Denton, a resident of Rockwall, TX since 1974, passed away July 16, 2018, at the age of 72. She was born August 17, 1945 in Dallas, TX to Oscar Oliver and Willie Mae (Gilbert) Speight. Sharon worked for Raytheon for 24 years as a Procurement Specialist. She was full of life and her smile would light up a room. Encouraging and sweet, Sharon adored being a “Mommaw” to her grandchildren and great-grandchildren and was best friends with her daughter, Christy. She was a very independent, kind-hearted, giving, and organized person and was a teacher of many things. Sharon could bake a mean chocolate pie, cherry cheese pie, and pot roast. You could guarantee that she never left the house without her makeup on and her hair fixed just right. She had the most beautiful white hair and got compliments almost every single day from at least one person. Sharon was a loving mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother and will be tremendously missed by everyone whose lives she touched.

Sharon is survived by her loving daughter: Christy Peoples and husband Deryl; granddaughter: Ashley Gandy and husband Jake; grandson: Taylor Gheen and wife Taryn; step grandchildren: Deryl Peoples, Jr., Jeniffer Davis and Ashley Cantrell; great-grandchildren: Case Gandy, Dylan Peoples, Nicolas Peoples, Jon Jon Peoples, Reagan Thomas, Caleb Peoples, Bryce Berry, and Brody Cantrell; and brother: Gene Speight and wife Sandy; along with a host of loving relatives and dear friends. She was preceded in death by her parents and sister, Charlotte Hyles.

Funeral services will be held 12:00pm Friday, July 20, 2018 at Reflections at Rest Haven Funeral Home – Rockwall Location with Pastor Rick Donaho officiating. Interment will follow at Rest Haven Memorial Park. The family will receive friends Thursday evening at The Gathering at Rest Haven Funeral Home – Rockwall Location from 6:00 to 8:00pm.

Joannie Crawford

July 19,2018

No obituary found.

From Novella Thacker:
“She had lung cancer and had been in the hospital for pneumonia but her husband said she passed from heart problem. Was getting ready to go home that day.”

Thomas “Tom” W. Hanley

April 1959 – July 2018

Thomas Wayne Thomas Wayne Hanley age 59 of Dallas, Texas passed away on July 6, 2018, in Dallas, Texas. He was born on April 29, 1959, to Joseph Hanley and Madeleine Hanley in Dallas, Texas. He was a graphical illustrator at Raytheon for thirty-two years. He was an avid aviation and space enthusiast. He was a strong supporter of the SpaceX program and a member of the NASA space flight blog. He built and flew remote control planes and was a member of the Richardson Radio Control Club. He was a marine aquarium enthusiast and a discus breeder. He was a member of The Dallas Marine Aquarium society. He was one of a kind; highly intelligent, an "Apple Wizard" funny, and kind to everyone. Thomas is survived by his sisters, Deborah Rothermel of Double Oak, Texas and Laurie Cronan of Frisco, Texas; brothers, Mike Hanley of Granbury, Texas, and Bill Hanley of Dallas, Texas.

Announcements

Senior AwarenessDay

E-systems/Raytheon Garland Site Historical Marker

Darrell Lancaster has contacted the Chair of the Garland Preservation Inc. to investigate the creation of a Historical Marker to be placed at the former E-systems/Raytheon Garland site. He was told that the historical group is only involved with historical buildings not locations

Bertha Hall suggested looking at old Garland Daily News articles authored by Sue Watkins. Terry Gaus reminded us that Ron Nielson researched and wrote a document on the topic as well.

Does anyone have connections to who we would contact about placing an historical marker somewhere on the site?

The Way Back Machine:

I inherited a copy of this book from my dad. Fred Buehring wrote, compiled, and published it in 1996 (a year after Raytheon acquired E-Systems.) Does anyone else have one? Here are a few pictures. I will bring it to the August meeting.

I have name tags for the following people. One line tags are $4.00 and two line tags are $5.00. If anyone needs a name tag, please send your name (as you would like it on the name tag) to me, emmawahlstrom@aol.com or text it to me at 469-475-4884. A second line is optional if you want to include your service dates.

Old Order:

• Gene Carlton
• David Terrell
• Don Schneider 1974-2015
• Shawna Schneider 1977-2017

New Order:

• Kemp Derrick 1966-1944

Mark your calendars! The August meeting will be on the 29th.

I’m still collecting eye glasses for donation to the Lion’s Club. Thank you all who have donated.

Feel free to send me information for next meeting to

emmawahlstrom@aol.com

Eileen Wahlstrom

E-SYSTEMS/RAYTHEON RETIREES LUNCH GROUP

By Eileen Wahlstrom

June 27, 2018

Thank you to Terry and Marilyn Parsons for sharing the fresh produce from their garden! Vine ripe tomatoes, cucumbers, and squash! YUM!

PRESENT: 47 great turn out!

FIRST TIME: Terry McNeely, Chris Berry

LONG TIME: Jim and Carolyn Stehn

Guests: Pam Cox (Joe), Marilyn Parsons (Terry)

SICKNESS:

Larrie Judd: Darrell Lancaster recently spoke with Larrie. His A-Fib is under control, however, he has been wearing a “Life Vest” off and on. This is an automatic defibrulator that treats you automatically if your heart goes into a dangerous rhythm. I will bring a card to the July meeting for attendees to sign.

Carrole Bunch: Did not attend the luncheon. Facebook says he is now having dental issues. We hope he gets better real soon.

Ken Cobb: Ken told me after the luncheon that he has been ill for about 6 months but is better now. Glad he felt good enough to join us.

Heather Kelly: Rita Hall’s daughter just completed round 4 of 12 of her chemo. Keep her in your prayers.

Kim Hartson: Sue Hartson’s daughter is dealing with multiple conditions that have her very ill. She is currently living with Sue in Rowlett. Remember her in your prayers as well.

Deaths

Nothing to report. Woo Hoo!!

Mark your calendars! The July meeting will be on the 25th.

I’m still collecting eye glasses for donation to the Lion’s Club. Thank you all who have donated.

Feel free to send me information for next meeting to

emmawahlstrom@aol.com

Eileen Wahlstrom

E-SYSTEMS/RAYTHEON RETIREES LUNCH GROUP

By Eileen Wahlstrom

May 30, 2018

PRESENT: 33

with Darrell Lancaster receiving the “stick-to-it-iveness” award for his late arrival to lunch but early arrival to the meeting! Terry Gaus chaired the meeting in the absence of Eileen Wahlstrom, who was returning from a short trip to North Carolina with her husband Mickey.

FIRST TIME: Lloyd Woods, a 26 year veteran of Space Systems and Advanced Systems. Welcome, Lloyd!

LONG TIME: Jim Lawson, Reese Ellis

Guests: none that made themselves known

SICKNESS:

Larrie Judd: Darrell reports that Larrie’s blood clots have dissolved and his A-Fib is in remission.

Carrole Bunch: According to his Facebook posts he is having digestive system problems. Has been to see the doctor several times.

Carrole was in attendance and reports he is feeling better. He also recalled the visit we had last year by USAF Col Bill Grimes (retired) and “The history of Big Safari” book that Col Grimes published (available on Amazon.com). Carrole also made mention of a Rivet Joint special program that is available on the YouTube channel. A subsequent online search found two such items; links are included below:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9dfejDMS7vc

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eVJwUTdtvps

Heather Hall: Terry mentioned that Rita Hall’s daughter was recently diagnosed with cancer and that we’d attempt to gather and disseminate more information in the coming days.

Deaths

Frank Kindel

1953 - April 27, 2018

Frank W. Kindel returned to his heavenly home on April 27, 2018, after a valiant battle with cancer. His devotion to his family and his firm belief in God supported him in his struggle and ultimately gave him peace. He passed away at home in Athens Texas, in the loving arms of his wife, and his two daughters.

After 33 years, Frank retired from Raytheon Corporation, Garland Texas. He served his country proudly and honorably both in the Army and as a civilian.

Obituary: Click here

Randy Blanck

“Marv and Eileen, Randy was in Alice Springs, Australia with us back in 1972 and was there when we left. A year or so later he had a very bad motorcycle wreck over there that left him with almost no control of his body.”

Tom White

“Thanks Tom. I often think of Randy. We were good friends in the Alice. Known to his friends as “bonsi Blank”. A nickname given because of his reckless motorcycle antics.”

Jim Hester

Service

Thursday, May 24, 2018
10:00am Memorial service with a light lunch reception immediately following
Williams Funeral Directors located at 1600 S. Garland Ave, Garland, TX 75040
2:15pm Military funeral honors service at DFW National Cemetery
2000 Mountain Creek Parkway, Dallas, TX 75211

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to a Veterans charity, Calvary Lutheran Church of Dallas, or a charity of your choice.

Goldya Knox

May 28, 1937 - May 9, 2018

KNOX, Goldya Goldya Lee (Sharp) Knox passed away on May 9, 2018. She was born on May 28, 1937 in Lockesburg, Arkansas to Joe Orson and Mable Louise Sharp. She was married to Gwen Franklin Knox for 61 years until his passing in 2016. Goldya was a working mother, employed in the accounting departments of Kraft Foods and E-Systems (now Raytheon). She is survived by her three children: Sherri Knox Skelton and husband John of Richardson, Sharla Knox Jones of Colorado, and David Knox and wife Dana of Sachse; six grandchildren: Alisha Skelton Wood and husband Matt, Amanda Jones Stearns and husband Shawn, Abbie Skelton, Alex Jones, Shelby Knox, and Slade Knox; and two great-grandchildren: Elisabeth and John David Wood. Services will be held at Williams Funeral Home in Garland. Family will receive friends on Monday, May 14th from 12:00 to 2:00 PM followed by funeral service at 2:00. Burial will take place in Horatio, Arkansas on Tuesday, May 15th.

Obituary: Click here

Gary Don Thomas

Oct 22, 1942 – May 29, 2018 (Age 75)

From Gary Thomas' daughter's FB Post - The memorial service for my father will be on June 23, at 10:30 am in the chapel of Williams Funeral Directors in Garland Texas. There will be a reception immediately following at the adjacent hall with a light meal provided. I will post a link to the obituary once it is completed. We appreciate all the kind words and thoughts during this difficult time.

Gary was born on October 22, 1942 and passed away on Tuesday, May 29, 2018. Gary was a resident of Garland, Texas at the time of passing. He graduated from Chillicothe High School and went on to receive his undergraduate degree from the University of Missouri in 1964. He served in the United States Army during the Vietnam War and was stationed in Panama. Services will be held at Williams Funeral Home in Garland, Texas on Saturday, June 23, 2018 at 10:30 am, with a reception to follow. Inurnment will take place at a later date at Lickfork Cemetary in Gallatin, Missouri In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the First Baptist Church of Richardson's James and Irene Landis Scholarship Fund. Inurnment will take place at a later date at Lickfork Cemetary in Gallatin, Missouri In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the First Baptist Church of Richardson's James and Irene Landis Scholarship Fund.

Obituary: Click here

Mark your calendars! The June meeting will be on the 27th.

I’m still collecting eye glasses for donation to the Lion’s Club. Thank you all who have donated.

Feel free to send me information for next meeting to

emmawahlstrom@aol.com

Eileen Wahlstrom

E-SYSTEMS/RAYTHEON RETIREES LUNCH GROUP

By Eileen Wahlstrom

April 25, 2018

PRESENT:41

FIRST TIME: Don and Shawna Schneider, Scott Verrei, Robert Clarkson (practicing)

LONG TIME: Bill Pettus

Guests: None

SICKNESS:

Larrie Judd: He is taking his recovery slow. Doctors are trying different approaches to treating his heart condition. The latest treatment is preventing him from driving so his wife is his chauffer.

Lloyd Woods: is under the weather and Scott Robinson is going to send me his address for a get well card.

Deaths

Chuck Barbour

April 2018

I don’t have any details about Chuck. He worked for ESY/RAY in Virginia. His Facebook page had comments from early April about his passing. If you know any details please let either me or Marv know for our archives.

Layne Churchman

August 1934-April 2018

Othal Layne Churchman was born August 28, 1934 in Waurika, OK to Othal Valentine Churchman & Hazel (Morris) Churchman and went to be with the Lord April 14, 2018 in Rowlett, TX. He is survived by his loving wife, Peggy Churchman; son, Layne Churchman & wife Marianna; daughter-in-law, Mary Alice Churchman; grandchildren: Christopher Lee Churchman, Brandon Michael Churchman, Alexander Page Churchman, Daniel Lance Churchman, Sarah Marie Churchman, Elizabeth Anne Churchman, TJ Barnes, Samantha Barnes Lopez & husband Eric; great-granddaughter, Brooklynn Grace Lopez; nephew, Mark Churchman; nieces, Morrie Lynn Phinney and Kimberly Morris. He is preceded in death by his parents and son, Lance Scott Churchman. Visitation will be 6pm-8pm Sunday, April 22, 2018 at Williams Funeral Directors. Funeral service will be 10:00am Monday, April 23, 2018 at New Liberty Baptist Church, 333 W Centerville Rd, Garland, TX 75041. Interment will immediately follow at Garland Memorial Park.

Obituary: Click here

Lisa Norris

May 1963-April 2018

Lisa Anne Norris of Rowlett, TX, passed April 14, 2018, at the age of 54. She was born May 15, 1963, in Dallas to Jack and Linda (Mosshart) Henigan. Lisa was a resident of Rowlett 14 years and a faithful member of Lake Pointe Church. She worked as an accountant for Raytheon and in her free time she loved to be a soccer mom for her sons, spend girl time with her daughter, visit with family and friends, have her feet rubbed by her husband, and gather with her Westwood Shores Bunco Group. Lisa loved her family and friends very much and was loved by them. She will be dearly missed.

Lisa is survived by her husband of 16 years, David Keith Norris of Rowlett, TX; sons, Justin Price Bailey of Prosper, TX, and Bryce Regan Norris of Rowlett, TX; daughter, Nicole Elizabeth Noble and husband Brandon of Maryville, TN; parents, Jack and Linda Henigan of Garland, TX; brother, David Alan Henigan and wife Catherine, and their daughter Riley Henigan; mother-in-law, Fay Norris of Sulphur, LA; aunt and uncle, Martha and Dan Turner; sister-in-law, Deborah Doan and husband Danny; brothers-in-law, Randy Norris and wife Anne, and Daniel Norris and wife Cysi; aunts and uncle, Janie Beasley, Acie and Helen Jane Henigan; many other loving nieces, nephews and cousins.

A Celebration of Life service was held 1:00pm Friday, April 20, 2018, at Rest Haven Funeral Home-Rowlett Location. As an alternative to flowers, memorial donations may be made in Lisa’s name to Ocular Melanoma Foundation

From Dee Ann Cummings on Facebook: I was told that she had cancer in her eye ~5 years ago and that cancer apparently struck again. She only went out on medical leave 2 weeks ago. No one I’ve talked to even knew she was sick. So apparently the cancer had spread extensively and was advanced. That’s all I’ve been able to find out. Soooo sad. Was told she was about 2 years from planning to retire

Obituary: Click here

Frank Kindel

1953 - April 27, 2018

Frank W. Kindel returned to his heavenly home on April 27, 2018, after a valiant battle with cancer. His devotion to his family and his firm belief in God supported him in his struggle and ultimately gave him peace. He passed away at home in Athens Texas, in the loving arms of his wife, and his two daughters

After 33 years, Frank retired from Raytheon Corporation, Garland Texas. He served his country proudly and honorably both in the Army and as a civilian.

Obituary: Click here

Mark your calendars! The May meeting will be on the 30h.

I’m still collecting eye glasses for donation to the Lion’s Club. Thank you all who have donated.

Feel free to send me information for next meeting to

emmawahlstrom@aol.com

Eileen Wahlstrom

E-SYSTEMS/RAYTHEON RETIREES LUNCH GROUP

By Eileen Wahlstrom

February 28, 2018

PRESENT:37

FIRST TIME: Billy Frederick, Jim Walser

LONG TIME: None

Guests: Janet Bunch (Carrol), Dianne Montgomerey (Mark)

SICKNESS:

Larrie Judd: Darrell Lancaster talked with Larrie a few days ago. He had been in Hawaii and had to fly home under medical care from some serious heart issues and possible pneumonia. He is home recuperating and seeing the doctor. Larrie told Darrell that he would love to talk with his fellow retirees. Call or email me if you need his phone number.

Scott Robinson: He had neck surgery to remove a disc and fuse others. He is in McKinney. I will get a card to him if I can find his address. Let me know if you have it please.

Deaths

Richard (Dick) Hans Jessen

September 1934 - February 2018

Richard was born on September 10, 1934 and passed away on Friday, February 23, 2018.

Richard was a resident of Dallas, Texas at the time of passing.

Richard considered his greatest accomplishment was knowing Jesus Christ as his personal Lord and Savior and being married to Betty Jean for over 59 years. Richard retired from the USAF after 24 years, where he was the Director of Engineering during the development of the Air Force Navigation Satellite System (NAVSTAR) and later coupled with the Navy's Timation III Satellite System to form the Global Positioning System (GPS).

Funeral services were 10:30 AM Thursday, March 1, 2018, at Christ Church Plano, 4550 Legacy Dr. Plano, TX. Visitation was 6-8 PM Wednesday, February 28, 2018, at Restland Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Christ Church Plano for mission work in his name, 4550 Legacy Dr. Plano, TX 75024.

Obituary: Click here

Announcements

From Bobby -

This was sent to me by a friend. I'm passing it on.....Brell

Subject: Medicare scam

https://oig.ssa.gov/newsroom/blog/june16-new-medicare-cards

This is pretty important to get to people with Medicare, their families and friends or adult kids who help parents with Medicare Have just gotten word about the newest Medicare scam from a division within the Better Business Bureau.

Here's what you need to know to protect yourself, family and friends throughout the US. Starting 4/1/18 Medicare will start a year long project to replace all current Medicare cards for beneficiaries to convert to alphanumeric ID numbers. Currently the ID number is your social security number. This is starting to hit the media.

Scammers are opportunistic First of all the new Medicare card will come to you in the mail. You don't need to request it or do anything. It will show up. WHAT'S THE SCAM? Somebody from "MEDICARE " will call to tell you you are getting a new Medicare card. But until it comes you will need a temporary card. Fee for the card is between $5-50 dollars. They want personal information, bank account or credit card so they can process your temporary card. THINGS TO REMEMBER Medicare will never call you unless you ask them to. Medicare does all communications by mail unless you ask them to call. Ditto for anybody saying they "work with Medicare to make sure you get everything you are entitled to" .

Scammer alert HOW TO PROTECT YOURSELF FROM THIS ONE? First of all spread the word. Feel free to share these notes. Use your answering machine to screen calls or just don't even answer a number you don't recognize. If it has happened to you or your friends or loved ones and personal info had been given out (happens considerably more often than you think so don't feel bad or stupid ) immediately take action to protect yourself against identity theft.

I have name tags for the following people. One line tags are $4.00 and two line tags are $5.00. If anyone needs a name tag, please send your name (as you would like it on the name tag) to me, emmawahlstrom@aol.com or text it to me at 469-475-4884. A second line is optional if you want to include your service dates.

• Gene Carlton
• Dan Parker 1982-1996
• Clarence Ostermann 1989-2013
• MIke Chaffee

New Order:

• Billy Fredrick 1983-2018
• Jimm Walser 1980-2017

The Way Back Machine:

This isn't exactly work related, but, Bobby sent it and I hope you find it as fascinating as I did.

What a Body Does in a Day:

This is interesting, fascinating and informative. The info is unbelievable. What Your Body Does in a Day:

Sometimes you may feel like your body is beginning to creak and fail you on the outside, but do you ever stop to consider the incredible work that is taking place inside of it? There is so much going on and everything fits together so well, that it's almost impossible to comprehend it. This presentation will remind you that there are miracles going on inside your body every single day.

May you always have LOVE to share, HEALTH to spare, and FRIENDS that care!

Also, Dennis York was held up in traffic and came to the luncheon as it was ending. He is looking for contact info for Bob York if anyone has that.

Mark your calendars! The March meeting will be on the 28th.

I’m still collecting eye glasses for donation to the Lion’s Club. Thank you all who have donated.

Feel free to send me information for next meeting to

emmawahlstrom@aol.com

Eileen Wahlstrom

E-SYSTEMS/RAYTHEON RETIREES LUNCH GROUP

By Eileen Wahlstrom

January 31, 2018

PRESENT:43

FIRST TIME: Chris Reynolds

LONG TIME: Caroll Lockridge, Scott Robinson, Don Wilson (Security

Guests: Nancy Lockridge (Caroll)

SICKNESS:

Carolyn Gambrell: Carolyn took a bad fall and broke her hip. She was at HEALTH SOUTH Rehab Hospital but is home now. Doing much better.

Gary Thomas:Stacy Gore let us know about Gary Thomas's condition. He has advanced Parkinson's Disease and is not doing well. He is a published author and was very gracious to give Stacy several of his books gratis for his fellow retirees. Thank you, Gary.

Deaths

Ann Lee DeBoer

November 1938 - December 2017

DEBOER, Ann Lee Ann Lee DeBoer, age 79 of Garland, Texas passed away on December 24, 2017. She was born November 12, 1938 in Water Valley, Mississippi to Lee Russell and Mildred nee Dew Walker. She is survived by her 5 children, Debra DeBoer, Lisa Hall and husband Mark, Charles DeBoer, Kyle DeBoer and wife Dina, and Travis DeBoer, 12 Grandchildren and 11 Great Grandchildren ( two more on the way) and her Sisters Carole "Kay" Thais, Patricia "Pat" Donaldson & Linda Walker. She was preceded in death by husbands Walter Charles DeBoer and Bobby W. Barnes, her parents and her Sister Mildred "Minnie" Johnson. Ann grew up in Memphis, Tennessee attending Messick High school and graduating in 1956. She met her first husband Walter at a USO Dance. They were married in 1958 and soon thereafter started a family and some adventurous military traveling. She worked for General Electric in Huntsville, Alabama and eventually retired with Raytheon in Garland, Texas. Ann always lit up a room and would bring a smile to anyone's face. She had a wonderful sense of humor and truly was the life of the party.

Obituary: Click here

Michael Lynn Cowart

March 1948 - December 2018

Michael Lynn Cowart, age 69 of Garland, TX, passed away December 29, 2017. He was born March 12, 1948, in Houston, TX, to Colbert Lawrence Cowart and Doris (Lawhon) Cowart. He married the love of his life, Barbara Ann Schultz, on August 16, 1969, in Dallas, TX. Mr. Cowart initially worked for Texas Instruments in Dallas, TX, then as an electrical engineer for E-Systems and Hewlett Packard. He was also a part time instructor for Dallas Community College Eastfield campus in Mesquite, TX. Mr. Cowart was an extra class Amateur radio operator call sign WA5CMI.

Obituary: Click here

Dennis "Denny" Ross

December 1949 - January 2018

James Dennis "Denny" Ross of Celina, Texas passed away January 3, 2018, at the age of 68. He was born December 3, 1949, to James Edward Ross and Nancy Ann (Berry) Ross in El Dorado, Arkansas. Denny graduated from Louisiana Tech in Ruston, Louisiana with the highest honors. He married Sheila Crotwell on May 29, 1971, in Calhoun, Louisiana. Denny worked for Raytheon in Garland, Texas for thirty years before his retirement. His interests included playing on the company softball team, making rocket models and being involved with the Boys Scouts of America. Denny enjoyed yard work and maintained the nicest yard on the block. He was an avid Texas Rangers and Dallas Cowboys Fan. Denny was a life long member of the United Methodist Church. He will be remembered as the #1 Dad and Grandpa.

Denny is survived by his wife, Sheila Ross of Celina; son, Michael Ross and wife Erin of Celina; Mandy Wilson and husband Windel of Lone Oak, Texas; grandchildren, Jacob, Isaac, Jara, Tyler and Mason; and brother, Tom Ross and wife Kim of San Diego, California.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Ed and Nancy Ross.

A funeral service was held at 11:00 a.m., Monday, January 8, 2018 at First United Methodist Church in McKinney, Texas. Interment is to follow at Ridgeview Memorial Park in Allen, Texas. The family will receive friends during a visitation on Sunday evening from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. at Turrentine-Jackson-Morrow Funeral Home in Allen.

Obituary: Click here

Kimbry (Kim) McClure

From Erin McClure:

Hello everyone.

I have firmed up the "Life Celebration" date for my husband Kimbry Lane McClure. It will take place on February 24, 2018.

If you would like to attend please send me an email at: eringemmell@gmail.com

Park Avenue Church of Christ of Dennison Texas will be hosting our event and guests. An accurate number of guests is required in order to properly set up and estimate meal prep.

Please do not respond with only a name....I must have an email address. Once received I will add you to the "EVITE" being used to manage the event. I hope to see many of you

Thank You, Erin McClure

Andrew Scott Budz

June 1951 - January 2018

Andrew Scott Budz, age 66, went to be with our Heavenly Father on January 24, 2018. Andy was born June 20, 1951 in Evergreen Park, Illinois, the son of Robert Andrew Budz and Angeline Josephine Bavaro Budz.

Andy thoroughly loved programs and movies about the life of Christ. He was a fan of old western movies, musicals, and comedies. He loved all the Rocky movies and would watch them time and time again. Andy was a genius when it came to the New York Times Crossword Puzzles and the app Whirly Word. He enjoyed spending time with his friends and family on Facebook and always spoke his mind. Andy's faith was strong, and he was never afraid to share it with others. He enjoyed playing golf, board games, cards, and dominos with family and friends. Andy loved camping, hiking through the woods, snow skiing, fishing, and gatherings with friends and family. He enjoyed soaking in the hot tub with his wife Andrea and their children and cooking his mother's spaghetti recipe. Andy also enjoyed listening to 60's music as well as music from his parents' era. He was very intelligent, witty, and had a great sense of humor. Andy never met a stranger and was very kind and compassionate to all those who knew him.

Andy served our country in the Air Force from 1971 through 1975 as a Commercial Artist Illustrator and was awarded the National Defense Service Medal and the Air Force Good Conduct Medal. He had over 30 years of experience as a successful Logistics Engineer at major defense corporations.

Andy is survived by his wife Andrea Budz and their children Sophie Borden and her husband Trey and Ryan Budz, as well as his daughters Michele Budz and her son Isaac Budz-Dyer, Lisa Bulicek and her husband Jeremy, father Robert Andrew Budz, brothers Russell, Bob, and Rick, sister Nancy Moore, and many nieces and nephews. Andy is preceded in death by his daughter Amanda, mother Angeline Josephine Bavaro Budz, and nephew Justin Budz.

The Budz family is requesting everyone to meet at Jeter & Son Funeral Home, 4830 W. Illinois Ave, Dallas, Texas, 75211, between 2:30-2:45p.m.

Please DO NO go directly to the cemetery unless you are running late. If you will be arriving late and must go directly to the cemetery, do not get into a lane until the procession has arrived. This will ensure the family's placement at the front of the line/lane.

Flowers: The DFW National Cemetery limits floral arrangements. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to help cover funeral expenses by following the link: https://www.gofundme.com/3kvn9w-funeral-travel-expenses

After the service, you are invited to join the family at Spring Creek Barbecue located at 4208 S. Carrier Parkway, Grand Prairie. We anticipate being there from 5:00-7:00 p.m. The restaurant is approximately 10 minutes from the cemetery.

Family Gathering

Friday, February 09, 2018
2:30 PM - 2:45 PM
Jeter & Son Funeral Home
4830 W. Illinois St
Dallas, Texas 75211

Military Honors and Interment

Friday, February 09, 2018
3:15 PM
Dallas/Fort Worth National Cemetery
2000 Mountain Creek Parkway
Dallas, Texas 75211

Obituary: Click here

Mark your calendars! The February meeting will be on the 28th.

I’m still collecting eye glasses for donation to the Lion’s Club. Thank you all who have donated.

Feel free to send me information for next meeting to

emmawahlstrom@aol.com

Eileen Wahlstrom

E-SYSTEMS/RAYTHEON RETIREES LUNCH GROUP

By Eileen Wahlstrom

December 27, 2017

PRESENT:28

FIRST TIME: 0

LONG TIME: 0

Guests: Dianne Montgomery (Mark), Gretchen Dyer (Eileen's new granddaughter)

SICKNESS:

Carolyn Gambrell Carolyn took a bad fall and broke her hip in two places. She is at HEALTHSOUTH Rehab Hospital

Room 243

2800 W 15th Street

Plano,TX 75050

Deaths

Kimbry (Kim) McClure

From Erin McClure:

Hello everyone.

I have firmed up the "Life Celebration" date for my husband Kimbry Lane McClure. It will take place on February 24, 2018.

If you would like to attend please send me an email at: eringemmell@gmail.com

Park Avenue Church of Christ of Dennison Texas will be hosting our event and guests. An accurate number of guests is required in order to properly set up and estimate meal prep.

Please do not respond with only a name....I must have an email address. Once received I will add you to the "EVITE" being used to manage the event. I hope to see many of you there. His years at E-Systems were often the topic of discussion.

Thank You, Erin McClure

James Benson (Lana Benson’s husband)

January 23, 1934 - November 30, 2017

James Lee Benson, age 83, a lifelong resident of Garland, TX, passed away November 30, 2017. He was born January 23, 1934, in Clear Lake, TX, to James Alfred and Allene (Hatfield) Benson. James served his country in the United States Army and later worked for Carolina Freight as a truck driver. He enjoyed fishing with his family and friends and was an avid bass fisherman. James also adored camping and traveling anywhere, although his favorite place was Alaska. A member of Lake Pointe Church, he loved his family dearly and will be remembered always.

James is survived by his loving wife of 55 years: Lana Benson; three children: Kevin Benson and wife Carrie of Combine, TX, Lisa Heiney and husband Ron of Lexington, KY, and Jana Lemon and fiancé Glen Owens of Garland; sister: Donna Sims and husband Charles of Ben Wheeler, TX; seven grandchildren: Jami DeVries, Lynn Benson, Brandon Heiney, Kacy Benson, Teri Benson, Brenna Heiney and Micah Lemon; four great grandchildren: Malakai DeVries, Elliana DeVries, Kevin Breedlove and Logan James Benson; and one great grandchild on the way: Paisley; and many nieces and nephews, especially: Sheri Wolf and husband Gary and Jimmy Ragsdale; along with a host of loving relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents; sister: Marie Wilson; and granddaughter: Amy Brianne Heiney.

Obituary: Click here

Clovis Burchfield

November 8, 1935 - December 22, 2017

Clovis D. Burchfield passed from this life to meet his Lord and those loved ones who have gone before on December 22, 2017. Clovis was a loving husband, Dad, Granddad, brother, uncle and friend. Clovis was born in the community of Whitewright, Texas, on November 8, 1935, to Clifford and Megella (Stillwell) Burchfield. The fifth of the eight Burchfield children-five sons Virgil, Clifton, C.B. Clovis and Wayne; and three daughters Margie, Ellen and Barbara. He was preceded in death by his father and mother, his brothers-Virgil, Clifton and C.B.; and sisters Marjorie Hughes and Ellen Burns.

Clovis graduated Trenton High School in 1955 as a star athlete in basketball and baseball. He married his high school and life time sweetheart, Betty (Griffin) Burchfield October 29, 1955. God gave two sons, Cary and Cyle, to Burch and Betty, to whom he was lovingly devoted and forever proud and thankful for each of them and their families.

Clovis served in the U.S. Army for four years plus 2 years in the Reserve. He retired from Raytheon in Garland, TX in 1993 after 371/2 years of service.

His life's focus held fast to his faith, as did his love and devotion to his family and friends

Survivors include his loving and dedicated wife, Betty, sons and families: Cary and Dalia (Alaniz) Burchfield, children Paige LaShae and Kari Kathlene of Maryland; Cyle and Ellen (Trimmer) Burchfield, children Baylee and Kevin of Arlington, TX; brother Wayne Burchfield and wife Charlotte, Lake Fork, Alba, TX, sister Barbara and husband Bert Frey, Tyler, TX, several nieces, nephews, cousins and a host of friends. Pallbearers are Larry Burchfield, Mike Burchfield, David Burchfield, Scott Burchfield, Mike Bowen and Jeff Griffin. Honorary Pallbearers are Pete Burchfield and Dwight Cox.

The family will receive friends between 6:00 to 8:00pm on December Wednesday. December 27 ,2017, at the Moore's Funeral Home, 1219 North Davis Drive, Arlington, Texas. The "Celebration of Life" Services will begin at 2:30pm on Thursday December 28,2017, at the First United Methodist Church-Mansfield, 777 N. Walnut Creek Drive, Mansfield, TX, 76063. Burial will follow in the Garden of Prayer, Moore Cemetery, Arlington. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Stitches of Love Quilting Ministry, FUMC-M, the Wesley Mission Center of the First United Methodist Church, 777 N. Walnut Creek Drive, Mansfield, TX 76063, Phone (817) 477-2287, or a charity of choice.

Obituary: Click here

Mark your calendars! The January meeting will be on the 31st.

I’m still collecting eye glasses for donation to the Lion’s Club. Thank you all who have donated.

Feel free to send me information for next meeting to

emmawahlstrom@aol.com

Eileen Wahlstrom

E-SYSTEMS/RAYTHEON RETIREES LUNCH GROUP

By Eileen Wahlstrom

November 29, 2017

PRESENT:52

FIRST TIME: Mike Chaffee

Guests: Janet Bunch (Carole), Peggy Churchman (Layne)

SICKNESS:

Carolyn Gambrell – Cortney is having Pilonidal Cyst surgery tomorrow so I'm unable to attend. Carolyn is decorating for Christmas so that's a big plus on how she is doing. Say hi to ALL for me.

Ronda O’Dell - Ronda is doing great. House construction is moving fast.

Deaths

Two E-Systems retired employees that have passed away include:

• Jesse Holloway - Greenville, Texas
• James D. Hill - Rowlett, Texas

I have not been able to locate any obituaries on these gentlemen.

Earnest Thorne

April 6, 1952 - November 12,2017

Ernest Eugene "Gene" Thorne of McKinney, Texas passed away November 12, 2017 at the age of 65. He was born April 6, 1952, to John Thorne and Patricia (McBride) Thorne in Port Arthur, Texas. Gene was a University of Texas in Austin graduate. He married Ana Maria Oviedo on April 11, 1987, in Peru. Gene received an outstanding performance award with Raytheon. He loved traveling the world. Gene had a passion for Irish music. He always had a joke to tell at any occasion. Gene was an amazing example of what a husband and father should be. He will be missed by all who knew him.

Gene is survived by his wife, Ana Maria Thorne of McKinney, Texas; daughter, Alexandra Elise Thomas and husband Mitchell of McKinney, Texas; son, Matthew Aaron Thorne of McKinney, Texas; brother, John Thorne and wife Genet of Houston, Texas; and sister, Alida Andrews of Houston, Texas.

He was preceded in death by his parents and brother, Jerry Allen Thorne.

A funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m., Saturday, November 18, 2017 at Turrentine-Jackson-Morrow Funeral Home in Allen, Texas. The family will receive friends during a visitation on Friday evening from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at the funeral home.

Obituary: Click here

Kimbry (Kim) McClure

From Erin McClure:

Hello everyone.

I have firmed up the "Life Celebration" date for my husband Kimbry Lane McClure. It will take place on February 24, 2018.

If you would like to attend please send me an email at: eringemmell@gmail.com

Park Avenue Church of Christ of Dennison Texas will be hosting our event and guests. An accurate number of guests is required in order to properly set up and estimate meal prep.

Please do not respond with only a name....I must have an email address. Once received I will add you to the "EVITE" being used to manage the event. I hope to see many of you there. His years at E-Systems were often the topic of discussion.

Thank You, Erin McClure

James Crowley

February 1930 - November 4, 2017

E-Systems Corporate Vice President and General Counsel

James Worthington Crowley of Dallas, Texas passed away on Saturday, November 4, 2017, at the age of 87. Jim was born on February 18, 1930, in Cookeville, Tennessee and was the only child of Worth and Jessie Crowley. The family moved to the Washington DC area in the 1940"s where Jim attended Woodrow Wilson High School and later received his BA and Juris Doctor from George Washington University.

In 1952, Jim married Laura Bauserman and they had two children, Ken and Cindy. In 1965, Jim and Laura were divorced. Jim married Joyce Ann Goode, and two more children, John and Noelle, were soon added to the growing family.

In 1969, Jim, Joyce and the two younger children relocated to the Dallas area where he was VP, Corporate Secretary and General Counsel for E-Systems, a major defense contractor. After 13 years of marriage, Jim and Joyce divorced, and Jim subsequently remarried for the last time to Carol Diane Golden. Carol brought along her four children, Laurie, Robert, Gary and Ginger, resulting in an immediate doubling of the Crowley-Golden clan!

Sadly, Carol passed away in 2014. Jim today is survived by his eight children, James Kenneth and wife Beatriz Crowley, Laura Cynthia Kiser, John Worthington Crowley, Noelle Virginia Crowley, Laurie Golden Dees and husband Ken Dees, Robert James and wife Amy Golden, Gary Brian and wife Carissa Golden, and Ginger Golden Tow and husband Brent Tow; thirteen grandchildren, James Jeffrey Crowley, Katherine Marie Crowley, Jacob Houston Kiser (deceased), Laura Annalise Kiser, Brent Robert Golden, Bryan Hunter Golden, Cody Taylor Golden, Chandler Golden Waite and husband Matt Waite, Conor Golden, Christen Alexandria Crowley, James Colin Dees, Preston Wayne Tow and Chase Golden Tow and one great-granddaughter Blaise Marie Baker. The latest family member will probably need a scorecard when she is old enough to read!

Jim was a devoted father, an active member of his community and church, a sympathetic listener, and a man of sound judgement. Jim's career was long and varied beginning in underwriting, cartography, and contract administration for Atlantic Research and other government aviation contractors and he was instrumental in facilitating the merger of E-Systems and Raytheon. He was a member of American Society of Corporate Secretaries, the President of the Dallas Regional Group in 1988-89, and National Director 1989-92, National Security Industrial Association, Law Counsel for Manufacturers Alliance for Productivity and Innovation, Omicron Delta Kappa, Alpha Chi Sigma, Pi Sigma Kappa.

He also was an accomplished musician and played both the French horn and the piano. He also sang in and served as President of the First Baptist Church of Richardson choir for many years. We remember melodies of classical music as Jim played his piano after coming home from the office.

We remember for many years the enjoyment of watching Jim and his more musically inclined children perform in the annual church Christmas and Easter programs. We remember sleeping on the motorhome, menageries of pets (mainly cats), big family get-togethers, generosity in times of need and stability in times of stress. We remember so much.

The now silent piano reminds those of us who grew up in Jim"s household of his music, his wisdom, his love, and the father we have lost. Visitation at Restland Memorial Park on Thursday, November 9, 2017, from 5:00 - 8:00 p.m. and a memorial service will be held on November 10, 2017, at 11:00 a.m., also at Restland. Memorial donations may be made in Jim's name to your preferred veteran's groups or animal rescue organizations.

Obituary: Click here

Ed McCamey

August 19, 1946 - November 16, 2017

Ed McCamey, of Wills Point, passed away on the evening of November 16, 2017. Ed was born August 19, 1946 in Bethesda, MD to Clifford and Phyllis (Aldrich) McCamey, both of whom preceded him in death.

Ed grew up in the Dallas area and was a 1964 graduate of Bryan Adams High School and graduated from UT-Dallas with a degree in anthropology. He served honorably in the US Army having been stationed in Europe and achieving the rank of Captain. He was a member of the Toastmasters International for over 46 years as well as Southwest LiveSteam. Ed was a longtime and very active member of Good Shepherd Episcopal Church in Terrell where his devotion to his Lord was evident in his service to the church serving on the Vestry as Senior Warden. He had a love of life and was known for his many and varied interests and hobbies with a special fondness for model trains. Ed also traveled abroad doing research for the National Science Foundation in places like Nepal and South America where he demonstrated and increased his knowledge of anthropology as he studied primitive cultures and their ways of life.

Obituary: Click here

emmawahlstrom@aol.com

Eileen Wahlstrom

E-SYSTEMS/RAYTHEON RETIREES LUNCH GROUP

By Eileen Wahlstrom

October 25, 2017

PRESENT:52

FIRST TIME: Charles Boone

LONG TIME: Janis Thompson, Richard Marks

Guests: Pam Cox (Joe Cox), Sharon Halford (Jim Halford)

SICKNESS:

Carolyn Gambrell – Bobby reported that Carolyn is doing well and is behind the wheel again. He cautioned us to be on the look out and drive behind her if on the road. He said her reaction time is still a little slow (I hope he was kidding! I live very near the Gambrells!)

Ronda O’Dell - Saw Ronda at the Raytheon Ladies’ Luncheon yesterday and she looked terrific. She said she was feeling great.

Skipper Cox- Rita Hall shared that she had recently seen Skipper and that he was dealing with several tumors in his lungs. Keep him in your thoughts and prayers.

Sharon Ritchie (Curtis Ritchie) - Janis Thompson, Curtis’s sister reported that Sharon was improving after her recent heart valve surgery. Sharon had the same surgery to replace a heart valve that Janis had only Sharon’s was the traditional surgical procedure vs. the less invasive method via the groin vein.

Sharon Carter - is doing better but walking with a cane after dealing with “Dropped Foot.”

Deaths

Kimbry (Kim) McClure

From Erin McClure Facebook post:

Amy Lynch

August 14, 1958 - October 08, 2017

Amy Elizabeth Porter Lynch 59 of Greenville, TX passed away October 8, 2017 in Greenville, TX. She was born August 14, 1958 to Joyce Marshall and Thomas E. Porter Jr. in Shreveport, LA. Amy retired after a career of 30+ years at Raytheon as a Senior Systems Integration Technologist II. She is survived by her son and daughter in law, Chris and Michelle Lynch of Caddo Mills, TX; daughter and son in law, Kim and Scott Hermes of Cedar Park, TX; sister and brother in law, Nancy and Mike Long of Springtown, TX; grandchildren Daegen Hermes, Ridley Hermes, Bailey Lynch and McKinley Lynch. She is preceded in death by her parents and brother Tommy.

Obituary: Click here

Dick Dirks

1929 - 2017

DIRKS, Dick Dirks (88) of Plano, Texas, died October 9, 2017 after a short illness. Dick grew up in central rural Illinois and served in the US Navy from 1946 to 1949. Dick and his wife Ruth (Upton), whom he met while attending Northwestern University, celebrated their 61st wedding anniversary in 2012. They had resided in the Dallas area since 1953. Ruth died in early 2013. Dick received a BS in Business Administration from SMU and an MBA from Pepperdine University, earning both degrees while working full-time and raising a family. His successful professional career spanned 36 intriguing years, beginning in 1953 as an electronics systems engineer at Chance Vought Aircraft. He retired in 1989 from its successor, E-Systems, as the Director of Business Planning of the Garland Division. Through the years, Dick was instrumental in expanding many aspects of the company's international business, especially in Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. Dick also traveled extensively with Ruth throughout the US and Europe. Dick personally restored a dozen vintage automobiles, including a 1930 Model A Ford Coupe and two beautiful red 1965 Mustangs. He was active in the Dallas Model A Ford Club and in local Mustang car clubs. In retirement, he started a collectible toy business, specializing in original Disney and early mechanized toys. His family and friends will long remember Dick's integrity, sense of humor, and large collection of jazzy suspenders. He is survived by his children Susan Dirks (Kent Stevens) of McMinnville, OR; Carol Dirks of Frisco, TX; Mary Winter (Douglas) of Roseburg, OR; and Jean Brazil (Michael) of Mansfield, TX; and grandsons Justin (Crystal), Ryan, and Kevin Brazil. Also surviving are Dick's siblings George, Gert Ross, Dorothy DeBord (Harold), Nancy Aspeitia, Anna Witbeck, and Annetta Tillman, all residing in Illinois. Brothers Albert and Alfred preceded him in death. A memorial service and internment of ashes will be held in Emden, IL, at a later date. Memorial donations may be made to Shriners Hospitals for Children or to the charity of your choice.

Obituary: Click here

Mark your calendars! The November meeting will be on the 29th.

I’m still collecting eye glasses for donation to the Lion’s Club. Thank you all who have donated.

Feel free to send me information for next meeting to

emmawahlstrom@aol.com

Eileen Wahlstrom

E-SYSTEMS/RAYTHEON RETIREES LUNCH GROUP

By Eileen Wahlstrom

September 27, 2017

PRESENT: 34

FIRST TIME: Debra and Lyle Livingston, Clarence Ostermann, Greg McKinley

LONG TIME: Tom Kummer

Guests: Peggy Churchman (Layne’s wife)

SICKNESS:

Carolyn Gambrell –  Carolyn is progressing but slowly. She has issues with uneven surfaces and relies on her walker to prevent a fall. We spent 4 weeks on the road and visited family in both southern and northern California. When we returned home I left for Colorado spending 3 weeks there. I strained my back in the mountains and not getting around very well. Gettin old ain't for sissies. I'll be at the luncheon in October.

Thank for asking about Carolyn

You may post this if you chose. Bobby

Ronda O’Dell Posted on Facebook September 12th - Feeling very optimistic. Met with my oncologist yesterday and he said one more test on the tissue they already have to determine if chemo is needed. He seriously doubts it will be needed, but wants to be sure. I get those results Oct 5. I have an appt. with Radiologist on Sept 20 to get that process setup when the time is right. IF chemo is needed, then chemo is done first, then 5 weeks of radiation then I'll be started on a hormone blocker. Most likely I'll start radiation mid October. My oncologist said the odds of this coming back are less that 5-10%. He was very pleased with my prognosis.

Deaths

Charley Edward Park

December 1940 - September 2017

Charley E. Park, 76, a long-time Indialantic, FL resident, passed away on September 6, 2017, at the Mayo Clinic Hospital in Jacksonville, FL, with his wife Adele and his son Buddy by his side.

Park was born December 27, 1940, in Wister OK to the late Thaddeus Warsaw Park and Lyda Mae Jones Park. He is predeceased by his sister Mary Brown of Oklahoma and brother Houston "Lum" Park of Louisiana

Mr. Park received his BS from Southeastern Oklahoma State University where he was president of his fraternity and listed in Who's Who in American Universities and Colleges. He began his career teaching mathematics and physics in the Denison, TX school district. His career evolved into software engineering and program management in the defense electronics industry at companies including Collins Radio in Plano, TX and E-Systems in Garland, TX. He married his wife of 35 years, Adele Virginia Penney, in Dallas, TX in 1982, and in 1990 they moved from Texas to Florida where he worked and retired from the Harris Corporation. Park spent his retirement years traveling, fishing, visiting or entertaining family members, volunteering at the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, and metal detecting the local beaches for coins and treasures.

Charley will be remembered as a rabid "Oklahoma Sooners" football fan, a beachcombing metal detector and treasure hunter, a good friend and helpful neighbor with a warm smile and funny story to tell, and most importantly a man who dearly loved his many family members. He will be deeply missed by his wife Adele; sister Martha Alice "Palsey" Overton; children Charles "Buddy" Park, Lisa Ann (Gary) Grant, Dawn Michelle Bookout, and stepson James Penney; grandchildren Aaron Grant, Preston Sheffield, Tyler Park, Jordyn (Jacob) Martin, and Halle Bookout; great grandchild Alina Park; numerous nephews, nieces, and their families; and Rosie the family pet.

A memorial service to celebrate his life will be held at a later time in Indialantic FL.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Disabled American Veterans, 1401 W. Intendencia St, Pensacola, FL 32501

Obituary: Click here

Phillip Bryan McKinney

February 1951 - September 2017

Phillip Bryan McKinney, 66 of Mesquite, Texas died on September 14, 2017 in Dallas, Texas.  He was born February 14, 1951 to Paul McKinney and Dorothy Jackson in Detroit, Michigan.

Phillip married Nancy Palmer on February 19, 1972 in Dallas, Texas.  He was an employee at Raytheon for 15 years.

Phillip is preceded in death by his sister, Kay McKinney of Knoxville, TN; and his mom Dorothy Jackson McKinney of Knoxville, TN. He is survived by his wife, Nancy McKinney of Mesquite, TX; daughters, Shannon Aguilar of Sachse, TX and Heather McKinney of Dallas, TX; sons-in-law, Aaron Aguilar of Sachse, TX and Omar Roa of Dallas, TX; granddaughter, Sydney Aguilar; and sisters, Donna Sharpe, Jeannie Steele, and Vickie Stuffle all from Knoxville, TX.

A loving father, dedicated husband, and an avid Dallas Cowboys fan, Phil was a delight to be around.  He will be missed by his family in Texas and Tennessee, by countless friends, by his coworkers whom he adored, and by all those whose lives he touched.  He will be dearly missed, but his personality, sense of humor, and zest for life will live on through his two beloved daughters.

Obituary: Click here

Glenn Mann Kennedy

September 1939 – August 2017

Glenn Mann Kennedy of Plano, Texas passed away August 29, 2017, at the age of 77.  He was born September 19, 1939, to David Hiram Kennedy and Lillie (Bays) Kennedy in Cunningham, Texas.  Glenn married Charlene Casey on November 23, 1962, in Paris, Texas.  He served his country proudly in the Air Force Reserve. Glenn worked E-Systems / Raytheon for thirty years before his retirement. He was a lifetime member of The Church of Christ.

Glenn is survived by his spouse, Charlene Kennedy of Plano, Texas; sons, Charles David Kennedy and wife, Pamela of The Woodlands, Texas, Kyle Wade Kennedy and wife, Michelle of San Antonio, Texas, Kevin Lee Kennedy and wife, Candice of Allen, Texas; grandchildren, Sarah, Ian, Kaitlyn, Tessa, Lily; sister-in-law, Elaine Kennedy of Sherman, Texas; and a host of nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, brothers, Kenneth David Kennedy, Geral Buford Kennedy, Charles Deveral Kennedy and sister, Claris Mabel Jordan.

Obituary: Click here

Wayne Weltin (August 20, 2017) and
wife, Teresa Weltin (September 14, 2017)

Wayne Weltin by Tim Weltin.  Edited by Darrell Wilhite
The lifetime journey of my wonderful father, Wayne Weltin, ended last Sunday in Houston. My Dad passed away peacefully in his sleep at the age of 89 on August 20. He led a remarkable life and leaves a significant legacy. He was born in Millersville, Ohio. Wayne is survived by his wife of 52 years and partner of 57 years, Teresa Weltin, as well two daughters, my sisters Erin & Carol, and two sons including my brother Paul. He is joining his daughter Susan and son Kent in heaven. My father is also survived by nine grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren.

Dad was a 20-year veteran of the Air Force. He spent much of his career in military intelligence and had a top secret security clearance. Among other things, he spent many years living in Alaska, part of the time on the Aleutian Islands, monitoring Russian activity. He met my mother while he was serving in the Air Force, while stationed in San Antonio. I videotaped the story of their initial social encounter a few years ago: Click here. My Dad spent his second career in marketing, working for a defense contractor, E-Systems Inc., for 28 years.

FROM MAUREEN DIETRICH. Wayne & Teresa’s Granddaughter.
My heart is so heavy and the tears are afresh.  My lovely Irish Granny went to heaven yesterday, September 14, 2017 to join her husband, my Grandad (who passed only weeks ago).  I am so thankful for my memories of her beautiful shining eyes, I loved her laugh, and her warm hugs and kisses.  She was so proud of her family; she treasured us grandkids and let everyone know it.  Her pride for her family was written all over her beautiful face.  I already miss you immensely, Teresa, but yes this world was a better place with you in it.  I will continue to do my part to continue your legacy.

George John Slusarchyk

August 1935 – April 2017

George John Slusarchyk, 81, of Galveston, left us on Saturday April 15, 2017 to join his beloved wife, Joan, and his daughter, Mary-Alice, along with family and friends in the Kingdom of Heaven.

As the patriarch of our family, George was always ready to help us, to guide us, and to make sure we knew that he loved us. He was always there to listen to whatever we had to say and to share a story or two of his amazing life.

George was born August 17, 1935 to George and Anna Slusarchyk in Port Jefferson, New York. He achieved a Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering from the Polytechnic Institute of Brooklyn in 1958.  During his career of 45 years he was mainly engaged in highly classified Intelligence Programs during the Cold War years.  During George’s time away from work, he was passionate about sailing.  He was the skipper of his Irwin J24 racing sail boat.  Later and to the conclusion of his storied career, George was involved in the installation and testing of state-of-the-art fiber-optical digital data transmission.

After his retirement in 2000, George and his wife, Joan, retired to Galveston, Texas, where they spent their remaining years exploring the Gulf Coast, getting to know the residents, and hosting many gatherings with family and friends. They loved being together and spending their time enjoying the island life.

Obituary: Click here

Mark your calendars! The October meeting will be on the 25th.

I’m still collecting eye glasses for donation to the Lion’s Club. Thank you all who have donated.

Feel free to send me information for next meeting to

emmawahlstrom@aol.com

Eileen Wahlstrom

E-SYSTEMS/RAYTHEON RETIREES LUNCH GROUP

By Eileen Wahlstrom

August 30, 2017

PRESENT: 54

FIRST TIME: Chris Mathews

LONG TIME: None

Guests: Inez Lee (Max Lee’s wife)

SICKNESS:

Ronda Odell – “ I appreciate all prayers.. please tell them I'm in very good health and this is a plan that will optimize keeping me that way!! I'm having my lymph node biopsy tomorrow. I expect it will be just fine. Radiation to start probably after Labor Day week.”

Deaths

Blaine Keith Newman

August 16, 1963 - July 27, 2017

Blaine Keith Newman, age 53, of Garland, TX passed away on Thursday July 27, 2017. Blaine was born August 16, 1963 to Barbara Newman and Bill Newman.

He graduated from Bryan Adams High School in East Dallas in 1981, and earned an Associate's Degree in Computer Science from Eastfield Junior College.

Blaine was a member of Troop 744 in Dallas, Texas. He earned scouting's highest rank, Eagle Scout. He went on numerous campouts and to summer camp, as well as a high adventure backpacking trip to Philmont in the mountains of northern New Mexico. Blaine went on many trips with his extended family including Disney World and Colorado. One memorable trip was a driving adventure to Las Vegas with his brother Bret, cousins Kyle and Jill along with his mother and great aunt. It was memorable for many reasons, but one thing that stood out, is that Blaine and Kyle did all the driving even though they were relatively new to driving. Many fun summers and weekends were spent with cousins at "Farissville" at Lake Tawakoni. Growing up, there were many hours spent with his across-the-street cousins and friends just riding bikes, playing basketball, roaming the neighborhood, and occasionally, fireworks and BB guns were involved.

Blaine is survived by his mother Barbara Newman; father Bill Newman and step-mother Lydia Newman; brother Bret Newman and sister-in-law Amy Newman; nephew Tyler Newman, nephew Matt Newman, Debbie Harbin, Bill Andelman, David Terry Andelman, Laurel Newman, aunt Vicki Newman, uncle Jim Newman, cousin Kyle Newman and wife Kelly Newman, cousin Alex Newman, cousin Collin Newman, cousin Jill Newman Richardson and husband Delbert Richardson, cousin Allison Richardson and cousin Blake Richardson.

Blaine was preceded in death by; grandfather Garland Fariss, grandmother Daisy Bernice Fariss, grandfather Jack Newman, grandmother Yuvonne Newman, and uncle Rick Fariss.

In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Operation Smile in Blaine's name.

Obituary: Click here

Julie Richards

August 14, 1975 - July 28, 2017

Kay Foster Eakins recently lost her daughter Julie Hidalgo Richards.

Julie Elizabeth Richards, age 40, of Rockwall, TX, was called home Friday, July 28, 2017. She was born August 14, 1976, in Ashland, KY. As a child, Julie and her two sisters were very involved in Mission Friends, Girls in Action and ACT Teens. Julie graduated from Rockwall High School, Class of ’94 and attended Eastfield Community College, where she earned an Associate’s degree. She has worked at United Health Care as a Project Manager for over 18 years, was a member of First Baptist Church of Rockwall and also attended Lake Pointe Church in Rockwall.

Jackie Thomas

October 4, 1934 - August 05, 2017

Jackie Armstrong Thomas, of Terrell, passed away into the presence of her Savior on the morning of August 5, 2017 with her family at her side. Jackie was born October 4, 1934 in Corsicana, Texas to Charlie Joe and Jackie (Jennings) Armstrong, both of whom preceded her in death.

Jackie grew up in an era that emphasized family devotion, hard work ethic, respect for others and these characteristics shaped her personality to be a perfect Proverbs 31 woman. She was kind, selfless and loving to everyone that she met. Growing up on her family’s farm, Armstrong Dairy Farm, enabled her to develop into a young lady that honored commitments and valued traditions. Jackie graduated from Emhouse High School in 1953 having been voted by the student body as Senior Favorite and Good Citizen. On June 23, 1953, she married the love of her life, Bobby Thomas, and were blessed with two sons, Darrell and Danny. She loved doing for others and Jackie could be counted on to help with baby and wedding showers, birthday celebrations and any get together. She arrived not only with food but with a servant’s heart to help everyone have a great time and her very social personality made an instant friend for life to all who met her. She was a longtime and active member of College Mound UMC and friendships made there were some of her most treasured. She and Bobby enjoyed traveling to many family reunions where Jackie could “catch up” with extended family and share memories that had been made. Always one to enjoy a good visit, she would often be found at all church activities, helping and laughing, as well as going out to eat with Bobby so she could see all her other friends here in Terrell. As devoted as she was to Bobby and her sons, Jackie found a deeper love that is known only to grandmothers and when her grandchildren and then great grandchildren came along, they had her wrapped around their fingers. She supported and encouraged them in all their endeavors so that they would always have a firm foundation of knowing they were cherished by Jackie. She had a way of making everyone she met feel the true joy that she always felt and Jackie will be missed greatly.

She leaves to continue her legacy of unconditional love her husband of 64 years, Bobby Thomas of Terrell; sons: Darrell Thomas and wife, Sherry, of Royse City, Danny Thomas and wife, Karien, of McKinney; four grandchildren: Dusty Wayne Thomas, Joni Rae Duvall, Jana Lee Thomas and Taylor Dan Thomas; four great grandchildren: Chasity, Conner, Devin, Kaleb Thomas; brother, W.J. “Sonny” Armstrong; sister, Katherine Cameron as well as several nieces, nephews, extended family, church family and a host of other friends.

For those wishing and to honor Jackie's service to others, memorials may be made to College Mound United Methodist Church, PO Box 793, Terrell, Texas, 75160.

Jackie worked in Facilities at E-Systems

Obituary: Click here

James Lee Metze

July 11, 1939 - August 9, 2017

James “Jim” Lee Metze, age 78, was born on July 11, 1939 in Tecumseh, Oklahoma. He passed away on August 9, 2017 in Anna, Texas. Jim was the second of four children. His parents, Clyde Marshall Metze, Jr. and Sara Smith Metze, preceded Jim in death as did his elder brother, Clyde Marshall Metze, III.

Jim grew up in various cities in Oklahoma, Kansas, Nebraska and Texas and graduated from Levelland High School, Levelland, Texas in 1957. He graduated from… Texas Tech University earning both a bachelors and master’s degree in math and physics. Jim loved playing in the band while in high school and college.

Jim had a passion for music. He played several instruments but loved the trombone and string bass the most. Jim not only played in the marching band, but also played for Sonny West’s rock and roll band and recorded several songs including “Rock-Ola Ruby” and “Sweet Rockin’ Baby”. The band would later open for Buddy Holly and the Crickets.

After graduating from Texas Tech, Jim moved to Seattle, Washington to work for the Boeing Company. He later returned to Texas where he worked for the LTV Corporation, which became E-Systems (and later bought out by Raytheon).

Jim’s work at E-Systems was often a mystery among his family members as it involved classified government projects. Jim enjoyed an award- winning career over 30 years. In fact, Jim’s involvement with the flight-automated system used with the Federal Aviation Administration later became an exhibit at the Smithsonian Institution Air and Space Museum in Washington, D.C.

Obituary: Click here

Doug Lange

August 2017

Doug Lange passed away August 9th, 43 days after being diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. A private celebration of his life was held on August 27th.

Feel free to send me information for next meeting to

emmawahlstrom@aol.com

Mark your calendars! The September meeting will be on the 27th.

I’m still collecting eye glasses for donation to the Lion’s Club. Thank you all who have donated.

ALSO… I continue to collect non-perishable food items for The Good Samaritans of Garland.

BTW----- This is my beautiful new granddaughter, Gretchen Amy Sue! I’m just a little bit proud!

E-SYSTEMS/RAYTHEON RETIREES LUNCH GROUP

By Eileen Wahlstrom

July 26, 2017

PRESENT: 48

FIRST TIME: Mark Yarborough, Stacy Gore, Dan Parker

LONG TIME: None

Guests: Terry Yarborough (Mark), Dianne Montgomery (Mark), Pat Osborn (Ozzie)

SICKNESS:

Charlene Morris had an accident and dropped a big book on her foot. Nothing broken, but, she missed the luncheon.

Has anyone heard from Verlene Denny lately? Joe Cox thinks she is very ill.

Deaths

Mary Joan Kumpf

1934 - 2017

KUMPF, Mary Mary Joan (Blanchard) Kumpf passed away June 30. She was born in Grantsburg, Wisconsin August 25, 1934 and grew up in Pine City, Minnesota. A graduate of the University of Minnesota, Mary moved to Dallas with husband John in 1972. She is survived by son Gregory Hatch, daughter Sarah Kreiner, stepsons Stephen and Thomas Kumpf, and preceded in death by daughter Susan Deacon. Mary is also survived by five grandchildren and four great grandchildren. A memorial service will be held Fri., July 7, 1100AM at Preston Hollow Presbyterian Church, 9800 Preston Rd.

Obituary: Click here

Robert Sy

1956 - 2017

Robert Douglas Sy was born February 29, 1956 in Dallas, Texas and passed away July 12, 2017 in Dallas, Texas. He married Cynthia Tutor on June 12, 1976 in Dallas, Texas. He was a Systems Engineer at Raytheon / E Systems from January 1982 to February 2014. He is survived by his wife, Cynthia Sy of Dallas, Texas; daughters, Cassandra Sy of Mesquite, Texas and Teresa Sy Nelson of Garland, Texas, a son, D. Alexander Sy of Garland, Texas. and a sister, Janice Sy Alford of Austin, Texas; 6 grandchildren and parents, John Robert Sy and Frances Vernon Harrott Sy. Robert was a dedicated man. He married at 20 and remained committed to his wife and family for 41 years. He also faithfully worked for the same company for 32 years and volunteered to help users on the Ubuntu forum until he passed. As a father, he walked both his daughters down the aisle and loved his son dearly. He will be missed by his wife, sister, three children and 6 grandchildren.

Graveside services will be held at 10:00 am, Monday, July 17, 2017 at the Garden of Inspiration at Restland Memorial Park.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Restland Funeral Home and Memorial Park, 13005 Greenville Avenue, at Restland Road, Dallas, TX 75243.

Feel free to send me information for next meeting to

emmawahlstrom@aol.com

Mark your calendars! The August meeting will be on the 30th.

I’m still collecting eye glasses for donation to the Lion’s Club. Thank you all who have donated.

ALSO… I continue to collect non-perishable food items for The Good Samaritans of Garland.

Trivia Question:

August's Trivia

Anyone heard of Klotzville? Come to the August luncheon and hear all about it!

Eileen Wahlstrom

E-SYSTEMS/RAYTHEON RETIREES LUNCH GROUP

By Eileen Wahlstrom

June 28, 2017

PRESENT: 41

FIRST TIME: None

LONG TIME: None

Guests: It was a day for some younger guests. Sue Hartson brought her daughter Jessica Morse and granddaughter Aria. Eileen Wahlstrom brought her God-grandchildren Jazmyne and Gage. Shirley Stockwell brought her great granddaughter Cameron. We enjoyed their visit.

SICKNESS:

Charlene Morris joined us after being very sick for over a week. Glad she’s better.

Janis Thompson is recovering well after her Aortic valve replacement

Johnny Gardner joined us today. He has missed the last couple of months after having surgery and a hospital/rehab stay.

Bobby Gambrel reported that his wife Carolyn is still having health issues. The latest being a bleed in her esophagus from taking the prescribed ibuprophen.

Deaths

Brent Goodwin Robertson

March 1962 – May 2017

Condolences Brent Goodwin Robertson McKinney, TXBrent Goodwin Robertson, age 55, of McKinney Texas passed from this earth to eternal life with his precious Lord on May 18, 2017. He was born on March 24, 1962 in Memphis Tennessee and was the only son of the late Ruedell Willis Robertson and Minnie Goodwin Robertson. Brent was also predeceased by his adoptive mother Mary Robertson. In 1988, he fell in love and married Lisa Cagle Robertson. They had two children. Brent graduated from Ridgeway High School, attended Memphis State University, and received his Masters of Electrical Engineering at Georgia Institute of Technology. He moved to Dallas and started his career with E-Systems/Raytheon. Brent has also worked at Informatics and Texas Advanced Optoelectric Solutions and concluded his career at WatchGuard Video, where he was Director of Software Engineering. He has been awarded 3 patents throughout his career.

Obituary: Click here

Leslie Graham Ray Ewing

May 1941- May 2017

Leslie Graham Ray Ewing, 76, of Bella Vista, Arkansas died May 24, 2017. He was born to Margie and Leslie Ewing in Laredo, Texas on May 6, 1941

Leslie was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 28 plus years of marriage, Jackie Ann. He has four children: Steve Ewing of Garland, Texas; Kathy Adreon of Coweta, Oklahoma; Bobby Ewing of Garland, Texas; Chris Ewing of Wylie, Texas and two step children; Tonie Rys of Plano, Texas and Mike Broberg of Richardson, Texas. He leaves behind nine grandchildren and six great grandchildren; a brother, Tony Ewing of Round Rock, Texas and a sister, Ginny Altheimer of Denver, Colorado

He proudly served his country; first in the U.S. Naval Reserve while in high school in Laredo, Texas and after graduating high school in 1959, he entered the U.S. Air Force and served for eight years, during the Vietnam War. Leslie was stationed on the beautiful Pacific island of Guam, where his beautiful daughter, Kathy, was born and second son, Bobby, was conceived. He was trained as a microwave equipment specialist and, upon his tour completion, returned to Lackland Air Force base in San Antonio where he completed his enlistment as an instructor of cryptographic equipment. After leaving the Air Force, Leslie worked for an electronics firms in the Dallas area (LTV Electro systems and later, E-Systems) for 30 years, during which time he served a stint as a technical representative in Vietnam (1969). He retired from Raytheon Company in 2000. Leslie and Jackie retired to Bella Vista, Arkansas in September, 2006

A funeral service will be held at 11 a.m., Saturday, May 27th, at Bella Vista Funeral Home Chapel, 2258 Forest Hills Blvd, Bella Vista, Arkansas. Burial will follow at Bella Vista Memorial Gardens Cemetery.

Obituary: Click here

Ben Tooker

March 1960-June 201

No picture available for Mr. Tooker

TOOKER, JR., Bernard "Ben" Bernard "Ben" Tooker, Jr., age 57, of Garland, Texas, passed away June 3, 2017. Ben was born March 19, 1960, in Marietta, Georgia, to Bernard Winfield Tooker, Sr. and Kathryn Mae (Velsor) Tooker. He was a graduate of Georgia Tech, later earning Master's degrees from SMU and the University of Dallas. Ben spent most of his career as an electrical engineer with E-Systems/Raytheon in Garland and recently as a business analyst at CVS Health.

Obituary: Click here

Mike “Gert” Gerteisen

The get together to honor Mike “GERT” Gerteisen was well attended by fellow retirees and Raytheon friends. Terry Gaus commented on how nice it was to attend such an uplifting remembrance and honor Gert with so many former co-workers.

Obituary: Click here

Dee Dale James "Beetle" Whitmire

August 1959-April 2017

Dee Dale “Beetle” James Whitmire, 57 of Waxahachie, passed away Thursday, April 20, 2017 in Dallas. He was born August 21, 1959 in Las Vegas, NM.

Dale, most popularly known as Beetle, was in the Navy for 9 years working flight deck on the USS Guadalcanal and the USS Kittyhawk. During that time he was on the USS Kittyhawk Rodeo Team and rode bulls and saddle bronc. He loved fishing and camping. New Mexico was his favorite place to be. The light of his life was his grandson and he loved… taking him everywhere.

He is survived by his wife, Wendy Whitmire; his daughter, Audrey Tello; his grandson (his pride and joy), Joaquin Tello of Waxahachie; his brothers, Mario Whitmire and his wife, Terry of Duncanville, Daniel Whitmire and his wife, Tamara of Plano; nieces and nephews, April White, Eric Whitmire, Shaena Whitmire, Amanda Fastle, Victoria Whitmire and Lauren Whitmire; and other numerous nieces and nephews in New Mexico. He was preceded in death by his parents, Dale and Emily Whitmire.

Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 1:00 p.m. Friday, April 28, 2017 at St. Joseph Catholic Church.

Obituary: Click here

John A. Milford

November 1934 – June 2017

MILFORD, John Alden Our beloved husband, father, and friend went to live with God June 22, 2017. John was born Nov. 16, 1934 in Akron, OH to Margaret and Howard Milford. He leaves his wife, Marjory, (married in 1956); two sons, John and his wife Paula in Florida, Robert and his wife Denise in Virginia; four grandchildren, Michael, Lauren, Taylor, and Connor and a great-granddaughter, Lily. John also leaves two brothers, Roger and Richard both in Ohio. He graduated from the University of Akron in 1956. In college, he was a member of Phi Delta Theta Fraternity, ODK, A-Key, Student Body Vice President, and distinguished Military Student of the Air Force ROTC. John served in the U.S. Air Force for 23 years as an Intelligence Officer. He had remote tours in Turkey, Korea, and Vietnam as well as family assignments in Hawaii, Texas, South Carolina, Virginia, Germany, and DC. He retired in 1980 from the Air Staff at the Pentagon in Washington DC as a Lt. Colonel. A second 21 year career followed with E-Systems-Raytheon Company, in Dallas, TX and St. Petersburg, FL. John retired in 2000 but kept very active. He served as Deacon, Head Usher, and Trustee at Pass-A-Grille Beach Community Church. He was Treasurer of the Pinellas County Republican Executive Committee, a board member of the Montessori School of St. Pete Beach, a docent at the Gulf Beaches and Gulfport Museums, served on the City of Gulfport Historical Preservation Committee and was an active member of the Gulfport Chamber of Commerce. He was also a member of the Air Force Assoc., the Military Officer's Assoc., and the Gulfport Millennium Committee. At retirement, John was appointed by the Florida Governor to the Pinellas County Juvenile Welfare Board where he also served as Board Chairman. John enjoyed traveling and cruising all over the world with his family and close friends. He dearly loved all of his family, his great friends from church, from work, the Republican Party, and his local community. He will be missed so very much. A Memorial Service will be held Friday, June 30, at 1 pm at the Pass-A-Grille Beach Community Church, 107 16th Ave., St. Pete Beach.

Obituary: Click here

Lynn Murff

March 1940 – June 20

MURFF, Lynn H. Lynn Murff, beloved husband, father, and friend departed this life June 19th and is now in the presence of the Lord. Born in Coalinga, California, March 8, 1940, to Herschel and Irene Murff, Lynn was raised in Midland, Texas where he played football at Midland High School then attended Texas Tech (BSEE) and SMU (MSEE). A brilliant electrical engineer, Lynn's career was spent in top level positions within the defense industry, most notably many years at E-Systems. He enjoyed jogging with no inclement weather being too extreme, a plate of chicken sour cream enchiladas, the ocean, and of course "The ultimate driving machine." Quietly strong, Lynn was a faithful, kind, and generous husband, a caring father, grand-father and uncle. Above all, he was a man of integrity. He leaves to honor his memory and example his wife Susie, his daughters Lynette and Melanie, grandson Koby, nieces Kama, Kyna and Mae, as well as a host of extended family and friends. A private family service will be held. "A job well done good and faithful servant!" Matthew 25:23

Obituary: Click here

Virginia “Ginny” Lauderdale

May 1941-June 2017

LAUDERDALE, Virginia S. Virginia or "Ginny", beloved daughter, wife, mother, grandmother (Gaga), aunt, cousin, and friend passed away Sunday, June 18th in her home of almost 50 years, surrounded her family. Born May 28, 1941 to Margaret C. and James V. Schmidt. She lived in Colonial Beach, Richmond, Arlington, and Vienna, Virginia. She went to work for the CIA in 1959, leaving in 1959 after marriage and moved to Dallas in 1969 where she was a stay-at-home mom to Lloyd and Mary Margaret. Ginny also belonged to DAR, Prudence Alexander Chapter, Book Haven Book Club, and The Antique Divas. She was predeceased by parents and husband, Dr. Lloyd K. Lauderdale

Obituary: Click here

Ginny was preceded in death by her husband, Dr. Lloyd Lauderdale, former E-Systems Corporate Vice President of Research

Feel free to send me information for next meeting to

emmawahlstrom@aol.com

Mark your calendars! The July meeting will be on the 26th.

I’m still collecting eye glasses for donation to the Lion’s Club. Thank you all who have donated.

ALSO… I continue to collect non-perishable food items for The Good Samaritans of Garland.

Trivia Question:

June's Trivia

Even though they seem like they’re around forever, a house fly lives only 14 days. A male mosquito lives about a week, but, the female can live almost two months. They have been around for over 210 million years!

The average person loses an average of 70 strands of hair a day

Eileen Wahlstrom

E-SYSTEMS/RAYTHEON RETIREES LUNCH GROUP

By Eileen Wahlstrom

May 31, 2017

PRESENT: 39

FIRST TIME: : Randy Case

LONG TIME: Max Lee, Duane Lunday, Boyd & Judy Robinson, Wayne Tibbit

Guests: Inez Lee, Peggy Churchman, Jan Bunch, Pat Osborn

SICKNESS:

Johnny Gardner is recovering from a fall off a ladder he had early in May. He had surgery and rehab and is walking with a cane now.

Janis Thompson will be having surgery on her aortic valve on June 13th. The valve replacement is scheduled for June 13th using a fairly new procedure where they go through an artery rather than opening the chest. She is very excited that it can be done that way. The recovery is so much faster.

Dennis York was able to join us for lunch. He told me that he had a very life threatening battle with Cellulitis… a bacterial infection of the skin and tissues beneath the skin. He is walking with a cane now, but, had a rough time with it and could have died if he had not gotten treatment when he did!

Deaths

Chandler Ray Evans

Passed away May 25th

Candler Ray Evans passed away at his home in Garland on May 25th at age 81 from cancer.  Ray retired from E-Systems in 1993 after 30+ years of service. Funeral arrangements will be made available when completed.

Mike Gerteisen

From Glenda Gerteisen: The date is now set for a gathering to honor Mike  – June 25th, time is 2-4pm. I will close details this weekend but wanted you to know since you asked about this

Dale Whitmire (Beatle)

Does anyone have information about Dale’s passing? He worked in 582 and was also known as “Beatle.”

Announcements

We had some lively discussion related to Medicare, prescriptions, and medical insurance in general at our May meeting. This prompted a show of hands to see if it was a topic of interest for a discussion at the June meeting. Several liked the idea and both Max Lee and Jim Lundgren suggested Jim Merriman from Medicare and More as a subject matter expert to speak following our next luncheon meeting. Mr. Merriman has 10 years experience and over 1,500 clients who have benefited from his Medicare knowledge. If you are interested in sticking around after our regular meeting on the 28th please bring your questions and Mr. Merriman will help us understand our options.

The buildings are coming down at Jupiter and Miller Roads. If you want a last look you need to hurry!

Terry Gaus told us that he had spoken to a site manager about the future of the site. He was told that the buildings east of the sky bridge between 580 and 584 were staying and everything else was to be demolished and replaced with industrial lease space. Terry volunteered to try to invite the site manager to speak at one of our upcoming luncheons.

A name tag order will be turned in by the end of this week (June 10th-ish.) If you need a magnetic name tag for the luncheons, please send your name (as you would like it on the name tag) to me, emmawahlstrom@aol.com or text it to me at 469-475-4884. A second line is optional if you want to include your service dates. So far I have the following:

• Randy Case 1977-2016
• Terry Gaus
• John Scogin
• Dennis York
• Mike Donohoe
• Max Lee 1983-2009

Dottie Vaughn celebrated her 89th birthday on December 31st and is already planning and inviting us all to her 90th next year. Mark you calendars for the party on Saturday January 6th, 2018! More details to come.

The Wayback Machine

E-SYSTEMS was born! May 1972

Feel free to send me information for next meeting to

emmawahlstrom@aol.com

Mark your calendars! The June meeting will be on the 28th.

I’m still collecting eye glasses for donation to the Lion’s Club. Thank you all who have donated.

ALSO… I continue to collect non-perishable food items for The Good Samaritans of Garland.

Trivia Question:

May's Trivia

The oldest person to sign the US Constitution was Benjamin Franklin (81). The youngest was Jonathan Dayton of New Jersey (26).

Winston Churchill was born in a ladies' rest room during a dance.

Eileen Wahlstrom

E-SYSTEMS/RAYTHEON RETIREES LUNCH GROUP

By Eileen Wahlstrom

April 26, 2017

PRESENT: 39

FIRST TIME: : Mike Donohoe

LONG TIME: Rick Barrett

Guests:

SICKNESS:

None to report. YAY!

Deaths

Bob Martin

1953 - 2017

Obituary: Click here

Announcements

The buildings are coming down at Jupiter and Miller Roads. If you want a last look you need to hurry!

Terry Gaus told us that he had spoken to a site manager about the future of the site. He was told that the buildings east of the sky bridge between 580 and 584 were staying and everything else was to be demolished and replaced with industrial lease space. Terry volunteered to try to invite the site manager to speak at one of our upcoming luncheons.

Dottie Vaughn celebrated her 89th birthday on December 31st and is already planning and inviting us all to her 90th next year. Mark you calendars for the party on Saturday January 6th, 2018! More details to come.

Email notifications about events and other information are now being sent through Mailchimp instead of Yahoo. This transition took place February 1st? Please let Marv know if you are having problems with the new system, but, it appears to be working fine. We had several “first timers” that said they received their first email from our group.

The Wayback Machine

The old red and white water tower…sold to the City of Mabank for $1.00.

Garland Site looking north up Jupiter Road. Pre 580 buildings. Water tower is visible

Feel free to send me information for next meeting to

emmawahlstrom@aol.com

Mark your calendars! The May meeting will be on the 31st.

I’m still collecting eye glasses for donation to the Lion’s Club. Thank you all who have donated.

ALSO… I continue to collect non-perishable food items for The Good Samaritans of Garland.

Trivia Question:

April's Trivia

What color would a Coca Cola be without food coloring?

Answer: Green

Did you know that 40,000 Americans are injured by toilets each year?
Mostly by falling either off or in!

Eileen Wahlstrom

E-SYSTEMS/RAYTHEON RETIREES LUNCH GROUP

By Eileen Wahlstrom

March 29, 2017

PRESENT: 45

FIRST TIME: Mark Yarborough(will start retirement 3/31)

LONG TIME: JD Ray, Ozzie Osborn, Joe Sladecek

Guests: Pat Osborn, Janet Bunch, Becky Boucher

SICKNESS:

Carolyn Gambrell: Saturday 03/25/2017 @ 6PM She was sitting on the side of the bed and fainted falling into the night stand and then the floor. I was in the kitchen preparing our dinner and heard the fall. I rushed into the bedroom and found her unconscious. I tried to awaken her but to no avail. Called 911 and they were here within minutes. She hit her face and forehead on the night stand and was bleeding. EMT's got her awake and off to Lake Point ER. Tests results in ER showed a very low pulse & heart pressure. From ER she was moved to ICU, one on one RN's. Cardiologist was notified and prescribed meds IV. She reacted to the IV meds about 10PM and I went home. 5:50A Sunday nurse called and said come to hospital and said her Heart Dr was on his way. Heart Dr monitored her signs for 2 hours and reported that she was in need of a pace maker and he was trying to get his team together ( Sunday AM ). He reported he wanted to try a med to see if he could get the pulse & heart rate in check, it worked.

She is on blood thinners and her heart has been over worked so he ordered a heart catheter test to see if her heart was strong enough for the pace maker operation.

Monday 03/26/2017 AM

We are waiting for the catheter test scheduled for this afternoon.

Tuesday 03/28/2017

The results from her heart catheter test showed her plumbing ( Doctors words ) is good, arteries & valves good, what the test also showed was weak muscles. More tests were performed and the decision was made to implant an ICD = Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator pace maker. This operation is to be performed Thursday, no time set. She needs prayers please.

Wednesday 03/29/2017

Bobby gave an update that the ICD will be performed on Thursday, 03/30/2017

Deaths

Brice Gregg

April 20, 1951 - March 01, 2017

Brice passed away on Wednesday, March 1, 2017 at Home Place Hospice of East Texas in Tyler. He was born on May 16, 1931, the son of Clyde Otto and Ethel Albright Gregg. He served in the United States Army during the Korean War and retired as a print shop supervisor for E-Systems in Garland. He was also of the Baptist faith and deeply spiritual. He is survived by son, Rod Gregg and wife Jackie of Rockwall, brothers, Dan Gregg and wife Nina of Houston, Joe Gregg and wife Ann of Ft. Walton Beach, FL, sister, Patricia Deuhr and husband Michael of Dubuque, IA, and his longtime companion, Shirley Long Threlkeld of Como.

Obituary: Click here

Announcements

Demolition of the Garland buildings and parking lots began last week. These pictures make it seem surreal!

Click here for more photos.

Terry Gaus told us that he had spoken to a site manager about the future of the site. He was told that the buildings east of the sky bridge between 580 and 584 were staying and everything else was to be demolished and replaced with industrial lease space. Terry volunteered to try to invite the site manager to speak at one of our upcoming luncheons.

Dottie Vaughn has sold her house and moved to Brookdale Retirement Center in Irving. That’s why she missed the meeting…a rare thing!

Her new address is:

Dottie Vaughn
820 N. Britain Rd.
Apt # 201
Irving, TX  75061
214 415-4119 cell

Hope everyone will send her a congratulations or thinking of you card to make her feel warm and fuzzy in her new home,

Dottie Vaughn celebrated her 89th birthday on December 31st and is already planning and inviting us all to her 90th next year. Mark you calendars for the party on Saturday January 6th, 2018! More details to come.

Email notifications about events and other information are now being sent through Mailchimp instead of Yahoo. This transition took place February 1st? Please let Marv know if you are having problems with the new system, but, it appears to be working fine. We had several “first timers” that said they received their first email from our group.

The Wayback Machine

Wow! Interesting article from 1961! The pictures are bad, but, the article is worth a read. Here’s an enlargement!

And for the guys…it’s a black tie (bow or long) over a white collared shirt with short or long sleeves depending on “Mr. Weather’s change of temperament.” Don’t forget your slide rule and pocket protector!

Feel free to send me information for next meeting to

emmawahlstrom@aol.com

Mark your calendars! The April meeting will be on the 26th.

I’m still collecting eye glasses for donation to the Lion’s Club. Thank you all who have donated.

ALSO… I continue to collect non-perishable food items for The Good Samaritans of Garland.

Trivia Question:

April's Trivia

What color would a Coca Cola be without food coloring?

Answer: ???

Did you know that 40,000 Americans are injured by toilets each year?

Eileen Wahlstrom

E-SYSTEMS/RAYTHEON RETIREES LUNCH GROUP

By Eileen Wahlstrom

February 22, 2017

PRESENT: 46

FIRST TIME: Gene Carlton, Bob Bailey, Linda Ross, Larry Wigley

LONG TIME: Carol Schamberger & Husband Bob, Ken Linton

Guests: Bob Schamberger

SICKNESS:

Carolyn Gambrell: Bobby Gambrell was missing today so no report on Carolyn. Hopefully, she was not so ill he had to stay home.

Bryce Gregg Johnny Gardner told me some sad news about Bryce and I confirmed it with Bryce’s son, Rodney. “Dad is very ill and currently at the Hospice of East Texas in Tyler. He isn't expected to live much longer. That is the correct address for his home, but I'm afraid that he won't receive it there. I appreciate your thoughts and prayers. I will let you know when I know more. Thanks, Rod”

Deaths

Douglas Allen West

April 20, 1951 - January 25, 2017

Douglas Allen West, age 65, of Rowlett, TX, since 1999, passed away January 25, 2017. He was born April 20, 1951, in Fairbury, IL, to Roy and Bernice (Bergstrom) West. He served his country proudly in the United States Air Force and later worked as a Systems Engineer for Raytheon and Rockwell Collins. Doug attended First United Methodist Church and was a loving husband, father and a great friend. He loved to cook for friends and family and was famous for his nachos and brown derby cake! Doug enjoyed fine wine and scotch and loved to entertain. He was a very organized person, maintaining detailed records of important activities in his life. His hobbies included hunting, baseball, basketball, bowling and a love for woodworking. An avid Chicago Cubs fan, who was happy to see them finally win the world series this year.

Doug is survived by his loving wife of 34 years: Ann West; son: Sean West and wife Renae; grandsons: Kaleb and Kyle; niece: Kimberly Nielsen and husband Doug; longtime loving friends: Boyd and Patricia Low; mother-in-law: Virginia Espeland and husband Jack; and father-in-law: Charles G. Roy; along with a host of extended family and friends worldwide. He was preceded in death by his parents; and sister: Carol Ann Whiteside.

Memorial services were held at 11:00 am Saturday, February 18, 2017, at First United Methodist Church, 1200 E. Yellow Jacket Ln., Rockwall 75087 with Dr. Joe Pool and Rev. Alan Clark officiating. Memorials in Doug’s name can be made to UT Southwestern Medical Center Heart and Lung Transplant Center at Professional Office Building 2, 5939 Harry Hines Blvd., 6th Floor, Suite 600, Dallas, Texas 75390-9244.

Obituary: Click here

Bruce Abernethy

June 6, 1936 – January 31, 2017

Bruce C. Abernethy, a longtime resident of Allen, Texas, and formerly Dallas, Texas, passed away unexpectedly on January 31, 2017. Bruce C. Abernethy was the son of Bruce B. Abernethy and Jean Catlin Abernethy and was born on June 6, 1936. He graduated from East Mecklenburg High School in Charlotte, NC, class of 1954. Shortly after graduating, Bruce enlisted in the United States Army serving in the Signal Corps during the Korean War. It was his work with radar systems in the Signal Corps that laid the foundation for his studies at Duke University and his eventual career. Bruce graduated from Duke University in 1961 with a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering and eventually earned a Master of Arts from The University of Texas at Dallas in 1984.

Bruce had a long and extensive career working with the military industry designing advanced electronic warfare systems and missile guidance systems to working in the civilian sector on transportation control systems and highway control systems. His most recent work included communication systems for the intelligent driverless vehicles. He married Sheri Cohen in June of 1971 and together they raised two sons; Barry T. Lorberbaum and Brett D. Abernethy. During his children’s younger years; Bruce was involved with Boy Scouts, coaching and refereeing soccer, hunting, fishing, and camping. In his later years, Bruce, enjoyed travelling and developed a great interest in World War II history. Through his and Sheri’s travels, he was able to visit many famous battle sites from World War II.

Bruce was preceded in death by his parents, Bruce B. Abernethy and Jean Catlin Abernethy, and his sister, Dottie Petty. He is survived by his wife of 45 years, Sheri; son Barry T. Lorberbaum and wife Kari, son Brett D. Abernethy, wife Tantika, and their son Donovan; grandchildren, Daniel Kaster, his wife, Parul Kaster, and their son, Aditya, and granddaughter, Shailyn Coston. He was also survived by his brother, Russell Abernethy and his wife, Susan, and Bruce’s beloved dog, Autumn.

A graveside memorial was celebrated Friday morning, February 3rd, at 10 a.m. at Sparkman Hillcrest Memorial Park, 7405 W. Northwest Highway, Dallas, Texas 75225. Rabbi Benjamin Sternman will officiate.

Memorial donations may be made to Jewish Family Services, Adat Charvim, or the Allen Police Association.

Obituary: Click here

Announcements

Dottie Vaughn celebrated her 89th birthday on December 31st and is already planning and inviting us all to her 90th next year. Mark you calendars for the party on Saturday January 6th, 2018! More details to come.

Email notifications about events and other information are now being sent through Mailchimp instead of Yahoo. This transition took place February 1st? . Please let Marv know if you are having problems with the new system, but, it appears to be working fine. We had several “first timers” that said they received their first email from our group.

The Wayback Machine

If your interested in reading the New York Times story about the buyout Click Here

Feel free to send me information for next meeting to

emmawahlstrom@aol.com

Mark your calendars! The March meeting will be on the 29th.

I’m still collecting eye glasses for donation to the Lion’s Club. Thank you all who have donated.

ALSO… I continue to collect non-perishable food items for The Good Samaritans of Garland. Pam, the center director, has invited our group to volunteer any time. They desperately need help sorting, shelving, bagging and boxing up food, registering recipients and general office help. They are located near downtown Garland on State Street and N. 12th St. Drop in or call ahead (972) 276-2263.

Trivia Question:

March's Question

How many people are sent to the hospital for dog bites every minute in the US?

Answer: 40

A pack-a-day smoker will lose approximately 2 teeth every (how many) years?

Answer: 10 years

Fun Fact about the old red and white water tower. Thank you to John Talbert…great memory.

When Luscombe Aircraft Co. relocated from Connecticut in 1945, the new location on Jupiter Road in Garland had no water service since it was on the edge or out of the city limits.  The company drilled a water well into the Trinity water sands (best I remember was about 1100 ft deep) and erected a 155' tall water tower just west of the original Building 500 and south of the future Building 549.  I don't remember the capacity in gallons.  It was painted the usual red and white pattern that is normal for airports of that time.  Water from the well was about 105F and rather warm so had to be cooled before most uses.  When the city had water available, the company entered into a contract that sold the well and the tower to City of Garland.  The contract had a clause that stated that if the well and tower were no longer used by the city for the municipal system, they had to remove the tower with the well and property reverting to the company.   As the city system grew and more towers were added, there were differences in the elevations of the other city towers and that caused problems. There were times that water would be spewing out of the top of the tower due to the pressure differentials.   The city tried to give back the tower but with the knowledge that it had no use, that offer was refused.  The city proceeded to sell the tower to the city of Mabank.  It was then dismantled and re erected in Maybank.  Facilities then removed the well pump and closed the well with concrete.  When the north parking lot was added, everything was paved over.  All visible remains of the original water system were gone.

There was a story that way back in the early Temco days, Mr. Wheeler, (Maintenance supervisor) wanted the tower repainted.  The lead painter was Major Farrar and he said that he would do it as soon as Mr.  Wheeler laid the tower on its side. It never was repainted while in Garland.

Eileen Wahlstrom

E-SYSTEMS/RAYTHEON RETIREES LUNCH GROUP

By Eileen Wahlstrom

January 25, 2017

PRESENT: 47

FIRST TIME: 0

LONG TIME: 0

Guests: Becky Boucher (John’s wife), Mariann Parsons (Terry’s wife), Sharon Shearhar (Julie Gilbert’s friend)

SICKNESS:

Carolyn Gambrell: Bobby reports she is out of the hospital from the heart problems. She’s doing better, but, has COPD on top of the broken hip and wrist.

Bill McCoy’s wife, Laura had extensive back surgery on the 16th. They fused disks C3 through T2. She also had laminectomies to give the spinal cord room. In a lot of pain. She is at Dallas Baylor Health South for rehab. Please keep her in your prayers.

John Calvert is very ill. He has diabetes and was put in the hospital for 18 days after he got pneumonia and bronchitis. His kidneys weren’t functioning well, but, they are OK now. We sent a card.

Deaths

Douglas Allen West

April 20, 1951 - January 25, 2017

Douglas Allen West, age 65, of Rowlett, TX, since 1999, passed away January 25, 2017. He was born April 20, 1951, in Fairbury, IL, to Roy and Bernice (Bergstrom) West. He served his country proudly in the United States Air Force and later worked as a Systems Engineer for Raytheon and Rockwell Collins. Doug attended First United Methodist Church and was a loving husband, father and a great friend. He loved to cook for friends and family and was famous for his nachos and brown derby cake! Doug enjoyed fine wine and scotch and loved to entertain. He was a very organized person, maintaining detailed records of important activities in his life. His hobbies included hunting, baseball, basketball, bowling and a love for woodworking. An avid Chicago Cubs fan, who was happy to see them finally win the world series this year.

Obituary: Click here

Feel free to send me information for next meeting to

emmawahlstrom@aol.com

Mark your calendars! The February meeting will be on the 22th.

I’m still collecting eye glasses for donation to the Lion’s Club. I took a large bag of eyeglasses for donation from the November meeting. Thank you all who have donated.

ALSO… In honor of the SANTAS PROGRAM, there was $30 donated and four bags of canned goods and Ramen. These donations were taken to The Good Samaritans of Garland. They were very excited and grateful. Pam, the center director, invited our group to volunteer any time. They desperately need help sorting, shelving, bagging and boxing up food, registering recipients and general office help. They are located near downtown garland on State Street and N. 12th St. Drop in or call ahead (972) 276-2263.

Trivia Question:

January's Question

What’s the name of the now defunct organization that brought employees and their families together to share common interests?

Answer: : The Employee’s Club

Bonus: Name some of the sub-clubs and past commissioners

Answer: : Several answers were given, but, Helen Hull gets credit for knowing the most, after all, she was the treasurer for many, many years and heavily involved in keeping the Softball program going.

February's Question

None

Eileen Wahlstrom

E-SYSTEMS/RAYTHEON RETIREES LUNCH GROUP

By Eileen Wahlstrom

December 28, 2016

PRESENT: 44

FIRST TIME: Al Peterson, Edith Sanders (from the cafeteria early years), Jim Connell, Kelly Lee

LONG TIME: Gail Cook

Guests: : (Sorry, I forgot to ask. I was having technical difficulty with the microphone!)

SICKNESS:

Carolyn Gambrell: Bobby reports she is progressing well.

Deaths

Kenneth Paul Vahrenkamp, Sr.

August 18, 1938 - December 8, 2016

Kenneth Paul Vahrenkamp, Sr., of Allen, Texas passed away on December 8, 2016 at the age of 78. He was born on August 18, 1938 to Herbert Henry and Bertha (Lehmann) Vahrenkamp in Waco, Texas.

From 1956-1960, Kenneth served in the United States Air Force in Alaska, New Mexico, and Minnesota. In 1961, he married Jennie Kathryn Rooks on August 30 in Waco, Texas. Kenneth then worked for RCA Service Company from 1961-1966. The couple settled in Richardson, Texas, and Kenneth went to work for E-Systems in Garland until retiring in 1997. Kenneth and Jennie moved to Allen, Texas in 1986 where they have since attended Christ the Servant Lutheran Church.

Kenneth was an active member in the Masonic Lodge for over 50 years. In 1962, he was raised as a Master Mason in the Fidelis Lodge #1127, Waco, Texas. He was a member of Scottish Rite of Dallas, Texas, the Lodge of Tranquility, the Texas Lodge of Research, and was awarded the Golden Trowel. He was also a long-standing member and Past Worshipful Master of Lee Lodge #435 in Prosper, Texas and a member of the Allen Lodge #1435 in Allen, Texas.

Kenneth is survived by his loving wife of 55 years, Jennie Vahrenkamp of Allen; daughter, Vicki Vahrenkamp Allen and husband, Randy of Allen; son, Kenneth Vahrenkamp, Jr. and wife, Mandy of Richardson; granddaughters, Chelsea Allen of Plano, and Courtney Allen Gray and husband, Tommie of Los Angeles, California; grandsons, Kyle Bathje and wife, Gabriella of Lewisville, and Kenneth Paul "Tripp" Vahrenkamp, III of Richardson; great-grandson, Elijah Curtiss Bathje of Lewisville; sister-in-law, Martha Gayle Vahrenkamp of Waco; and a host of other loving family and friends.

Obituary: Click here

Ed Tajchman

March 2, 1934 - December 19, 2016

Edwin Joseph Tajchman was born (March, 2, 1934) and raised on a farm near Pilsen, Kansas. His family primarily spoke Czech in the house while they were growing up, and ate many kolaches, rohlickys, and other delicious Czech foods his mother Rose always kept on hand.  The rigors of farming life produced a strong, resourceful young man.  A bad year of drought persuaded him to try college at Wichita State. After a year, he decided to enlist in the Army and joined a unit focused on advanced TV technology.  His army buddies nick named him the “Kansas Sand Hog” when he let air out of the tires on his jeep during a deployment in rough terrain, a trick honed in muddy fields back on the farm.  After his discharge, he went on to study electrical engineering at Kansas State University on the G.I. Bill and there met an amazing young woman who grew up on a farm in western Kansas.  He married Peggy Tillotson, both finished their Bachelors degrees, and they moved to Denver to start their family and a new life together.

The family quickly grew as they brought Ron, Tim, Gary, and Margi into the world and eventually to the house on Fillmore Street, where they made many life long friends.  Ed pursued his Masters degree at Denver University while employed at Denver Research Institute.  His work at DRI took him on special assignment to the South Pacific to do top secret research, which not surprisingly, he kept secret his whole life. He was recruited by a startup formed out of the DRI staff to make real the dreams of Lee Harrison to automate the laborious process of creating animation for TV and the big screen. Like any startup, Computer Image had its highs and lows, but the high points were pretty amazing. He broke new ground as one the first people to actually do computer animation.  And as he rose through the ranks, eventually becoming Chief of the Engineering department, he met many famous people who came to their startup space along the Platt River including Jim Hensen, Tommy Smothers, and Chuck Jones. He traveled around the world to such places as Luxembourg, Chile, and Japan to help meet the demand for their pioneering technology.  All while raising a family of four kids and pursuing his Ph.D. in electrical engineering at DU, which he received in 1974.  In one of his proudest moments, he and Lee Harrison accepted the Emmy Award in 1973 for outstanding technical achievement for the development of the Scanimate computer animation system.  

Computer Image’s analog technology was very successful in 1970’s but digital animation techniques held the day as digital computers became more and more ubiquitous.  When they finally closed the doors he found a new job at E-Systems (now Raytheon) in Garland, Texas, in 1987.  He enjoyed a long and successful career at Raytheon, retiring in 2010 after Peggy passed away, spending the last years of his life taking care of his daughter.  He died in the comfort of his home, surrounded by his family on December 19, 2016. Through all his accomplishments and successes, he was always a humble man who led by example.  Anyone who was lucky enough to spend time with him grew to adore, admire, and love him. And he was an amazing polka dancer.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in Ed’s name to one of his favorite charities, the North Texas Food Bank, ntfb.org. A viewing will be held at Eastgate Funeral Home, 1910 Eastgate Drive, Garland, Texas from 6 to 8 pm on Tuesday, December 27, and a funeral mass will be held at Saint Joseph Catholic Church, 600 South Jupiter Road, Richardson, Texas on Wednesday, December 28, at 10:30 am.

Obituary: Click here

James L. Snow

January 22, 1937 – December 17, 2016

“I live in Salida, CO and so did Jim Snow. This is Jim's obituary from the local "The Mountain Mail" newspaper.”

Bob Daniel

Posted: Tuesday, December 20, 2016 3:41 am

James L. Snow, 79, of Salida died Dec. 17, 2016, at his home.

He was born Jan. 22, 1937, in Guntersville, Ala., to James Everett and Verna (Hughes) Snow. Mr. Snow played football for and graduated from Marshall County High School in Guntersville. After graduating high school, he attended Auburn University and then graduated from Texas A&M University at Commerce. In January 1965 he met his future wife, Jeannie Dalaman, in Omaha, Neb. They were married Aug. 7, 1965, in St. Joseph, Mo.

Mr. Snow was a pioneer of the computer software industry until his retirement in 1997. He lived in Salida for 13 years, where he was a member of First Presbyterian Church. He was also a member of the Monarch Mavericks Square Dance Club, Columbine Gem & Mineral Club, and the Energy Outreach Program of First Presbyterian Church. Friends and family said he loved his family, the mountains and rock hounding. Mr. Snow was preceded in death by his parents and his in-laws, George and Dortha Moss. Survivors include his wife; brothers, Dan (Sharon) Snow and Tom (Wilma) Snow; sister-in-law Dianna Hansen; son, Randy Snow; daughter, Debbie (Paul) Williams; grandchildren, Emma and Joshua Williams; aunts, Marie McWhirter and Ila Mae Buck; and numerous nieces and nephews.

His memorial service will be at 10 a.m. Dec. 21, 2016, at First Presbyterian Church in Salida. Memorial contributions may be made to the First Presbyterian Church Food Pantry or the Love Fund and Heart of the Rockies Home Health and Hospice. Arrangements were with Lewis and Glenn Funeral Home in Salida.

Obituary: Click here

George Williams

Geworge had died on the 22nd of December.  George worked for E-Systems back in the 60’s. His residence was Lindale, Texas. No picture or obituary can be found.

H. C. Chancey

November 10, 1919 - December 25, 2016

CHANCEY, Hosea Cleo H. C. Chancey died at 6:45 PM on December 25, 2016. He was born in Merkel, TX on November 10, 1919, the fourth child of Callaway Chancey and Rosa Cross Chancey. He attended Warren Elementary School, Merkel High School, and graduated in 1938. He also attended Frye's Vocational school in Dallas. H. C. married his childhood sweetheart, Lyla Christine Hobbs, May 9,1941 and celebrated more than 65 years together. He was preceded in death by his wife, Lyla, both parents, three sisters, one brother, and his son, Donald Ray Chancey. He is survived by a daughter, Sandra Chancey of Richardson, TX, one grandson, Jon Chancey, of Sachse, TX, two great grandchildren, Hannah Chancey and Waylon Chancey, and a host of nieces and nephews. He served in the U.S. Army from 1943-1946 in Foreign Service in the European Theatre of Operations. He was awarded the Bronze Star and Purple Heart. He retired from Raytheon E-Systems and predecessor companies of Temco and LTV after more than 35 years of service. Graveside service for Hosea Chancey will be held at 11:00 AM, Friday, December 30, 2016 at Restland Memorial Park. Memorial service will be held at 12 Noon at Richardson East Church of Christ 1504 E. Campbell Rd. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the Gary Sinise Foundation.

Obituary: Click here

Feel free to send me information for next meeting to

emmawahlstrom@aol.com

Mark your calendars! The January meeting will be on the 25th.

I’m still collecting eye glasses for donation to the Lion’s Club. I took a large bag of eyeglasses for donation from the November meeting. Thank you all who have donated.

ALSO… In honor of the SANTAS PROGRAM, there was $30 donated and four bags of canned goods and Ramen. These donations were taken to The Good Samaritans of Garland. They were very excited and grateful. Pam, the center director, invited our group to volunteer any time. They desperately need help sorting, shelving, bagging and boxing up food, registering recipients and general office help. They are located near downtown garland on State Street and N. 12th St. Drop in or call ahead (972) 276-2263.

Trivia Question:

December's Question

What was the month/year that Grand Prairie TEMCO people moved into the Garland facility?

Answer: September 1957

January's Question

What’s the name of the now defunct organization that brought employees and their families together to share common interests?

Answer: : The Employee’s Club

Bonus: Name some of the sub-clubs and past commissioners

Answer: : Several answers were given, but, Helen Hull gets credit for knowing the most, after all, she was the treasurer for many, many years and heavily involved in keeping the Softball program going.

Eileen Wahlstrom

E-SYSTEMS/RAYTHEON RETIREES LUNCH GROUP

By Eileen Wahlstrom

November 30, 2016

PRESENT: 44

FIRST TIME: Jim Halford, Bennie Head, Mary Ellen Myers, Gwen Kelbe

LONG TIME: Gwyn Romero

Guests: Sharon Halford (Jim), Betty Head (Bennie), Pam Cox (Joe)

SICKNESS:

Carolyn Gambrell: Bobby reports she is progressing. Still has in home nurse visits and cast on wrist but hip replacement is healing quickly.

Raye Ann Farris: Has been on medical leave for approximately a year. Recently had a heart attack but is now home recovering.

Phil Bedford: Reports are that he is back to work.

Deaths

John Reeder Barkman

November 10, 1938 - November 13, 2016

John Reeder Barkman, 78, of Garland, TX. passed away on November 13, 2016 in Dallas, TX. He was born on November 10, 1938 in Hooks, TX. to Rollin J. and Clara Ouida (Reeder) Barkman. He was in The U.S. Air Force and later married Sherrie (Hudson) on September 14, 1984 in Garland, TX. He retired as a Printer for Raytheon. He was preceded in death by his parents, a son; Bradley Thomas Barkman and a sister; Dixie Hudspeth. John is survived by his loving wife; Sherrie Barkman, son; John Keith Barkman and Stepson; John Dowdy lV, 1 daughter; Kristen Kaye Barkman Bowling and (Brady), Chosen daughter; Wanda Dowdy, Grandchildren; Jackson Reed Bowling and John Kayden Barkman, 1 granddaughter; Landry Claire Bowling, 2 chosen grandchildren; Zach Holsclaw and (Sandra), Ashley Stephens and (Jerry). Great granddaughter; Helen Stephens.

Obituary: Click here

Sara M. Secor

November 10, 1938 - November 13, 2016

SECOR, Sara M. Dec. 4, 1930 - Oct. 27, 2016 Sara Louise Marshall Secor, of Brentwood, TN, formerly of Dallas, passed on Oct. 27th. A celebration of her life, one devoted to family, faith and friends, was held in TN on Nov. 1. Born to Edgar and Sallie Lou (Covington) Marshall on Dec. 4, 1930 and raised in Baldwyn, MS, Sara worked in Memphis, TN after graduating from NE Mississippi Jr College. (She was also the JC's first homecoming queen!) In Memphis she met a sailor, William (Bill) Secor, and married him on June 1, 1954. Sara and Bill enjoyed 58 years together, 43 of which were spent in Dallas raising their family.

Obituary: Click here

Gary Risk

May 24, 1958 - November 29, 2016

Gary Ray Risk, 58, of Waxahachie passed away on Tuesday, November 29, 2016 at Methodist Dallas Medical Center with his family at his side. Gary was born in Dallas on May 24, 1958 to Kenneth W. Risk and the late Virginia Cannady Risk. Gary graduated from Bryan Adams High School then attended and graduated from Richland College in 1979 with an Associate’s Degree in Arts and Science. Gary worked for Texans Can Academies as an IT Helpdesk manager since 2009. He enjoyed working on computers and playing ping pong. He also had a passion for drag and slot car racing. Gary was an avid participator in all three of his children's sports including volleyball, football, basketball and soccer.

Obituary: Click here

Announcements

Mr. H.C Chancey just celebrated his 97th birthday. Happy Birthday Chancey!

The Garland site has officially been turned over to the new owners and, word has it, will be demolished to make way for another trucking business similar to the one across from the Miller Rd. Credit Union.

Speaking of the Credit Union, their Miller Rd. location is for sale. The employees from that location have relocated to the Forest Ln. location.

The Way Back Machine

Currently, email notifications about events and other information are sent through the yahoo group esyrayretirees-subscribe@yahoogroups.com. This has proven to be confusing to many especially during the invitation process for this Open House. Anyone can and has been added to the Yahoo group and we have no way to tell for sure who they are and if a retiree. Marv and I are trying to come up with a better way. Any suggestions would be appreciated!

Feel free to send me information for next meeting to

emmawahlstrom@aol.com

Mark your calendars! The December meeting will be on the 28th.

I’m still collecting eye glasses for donation to the Lion’s Club. I took a large bag of eyeglasses for donation from the November meeting. Thank you.

ALSO… In honor of the SANTAS PROGRAM, there was $30 donated and four bags of canned goods and Ramen. These donations were taken to The Good Samaritans of Garland. They were very excited and grateful. Pam, the center director, invited our group to volunteer any time. They desperately need help sorting, shelving, bagging and boxing up food, registering recipients and general office help. They are located near downtown garland on State Street and N. 12th St. Drop in or call ahead (972) 276-2263.

Trivia Question:

December's Question

What was the month/year that Grand Prairie TEMCO people moved into the Garland facility?

Answer: September 1957

Eileen Wahlstrom

E-SYSTEMS/RAYTHEON RETIREES LUNCH GROUP

By Eileen Wahlstrom

October 26, 2016

PRESENT: 39

FIRST TIME: Ruby Jackson (from America’s Credit Union), Jim Dunn and wife Sharon

LONG TIME:

Guests: Peggy Churchwood, Janet Bunch, Marian Parsons, Sharon Shearhar

SICKNESS:

Reeder Barkman: Reeder has not been to the last four or five monthly luncheons. Bobby Gambrel spoke with him early this week and he is not doing well. He was moved to a hospice section of the VA hospital where his pain can be managed better.

Dennis York: Dennis is improving quickly. He attended the luncheon today and was getting around well after his recent back surgery

Carolyn Gambrell: Carolyn Gambrell had a bad fall about a month ago and broke her hip and wrist. She has been recovering from a hip replacement and has been in rehab. This Friday (10-28) she will return home with Homecare nurse care. She’s doing considerably well.

Deaths

David Raymond Allbritton

August 28, 1951 - October 20, 2016

David Raymond Allbritton, 65, passed away at his home on October 20, 2016. He was born on August 28, 1951 in Dallas to William Raymond (WR) and Loreta (Hamilton) Allbritton of Dallas, TX. David was a 1969 graduate of H. Grady Spruce High School. His entire working career was spent using his creativity and skills to demolish and rebuild structures whether it was a grocery store, a kitchen remodel in University Park area, a work area or his own home using carpentry and millwork. He retired from E Systems (Raytheon) after 22 years of faithful service.

Obituary: Click here

Jack Staes

a long-time employee at E- Systems, Garland Division passed away on October 18 following an extended period of illnesses.  He had been retired approximately 20 years.  During his tenure at E-Systems Jack was a digital design Project Engineer in the Electronic Warfare Department and contributed significantly to several long-term contracts for the RIVET JOINT program.

Services for Jack will be held at the DFW National Cemetery on Thursday, October 27, at 1:15pm. No obituary available.

Feel free to send me information for next meeting to

emmawahlstrom@aol.com

Mark your calendars! The November meeting will be on the 30th.

I’m still collecting eye glasses for donation to the Lion’s Club. Thank you. There were over 20 pair donated last month! In honor of the SANTAS PROGRAM please bring non-perishable food donations or monetary donations to the November meeting. The food and money will be given to The Good Samaritan in Garland. Thank you in advance..

Trivia Question:

October Question

What was the name of the mascot of the energy savings initiative? Hint: Named after a former Facilities Director.

Answer: Eddie Save-A-Watt

Eileen Wahlstrom

Don't forget to Vote November 8th

E-SYSTEMS/RAYTHEON RETIREES LUNCH GROUP

By Eileen Wahlstrom

September 28, 2016

PRESENT: 36

FIRST TIME: Phil Evans

LONG TIME: Pat Wooldridge

Guests: Sharon Shearhar came with Julie Gilbert

SICKNESS:

Bob Martin: From Ana Martin, Bob’s wife. Bob is in stage 6, acute aggressive Alzheimer's. He is at:
Grand Brook Memory Care.
5600 N. Shiloh Rd
Garland, TX  75044

He is about 20 years ago in recalling his life, so you may very well be in luck with him recognizing you. I hope you have a good visit, he isn't very articulate any longer but be patient and maybe you will be there on a good day.

Thank you for trying to visit with him.

Dennis York: : Had back surgery at UTSW Medical Center, Zale Lipsy Hospital on Monday, August 29th. Lower back, L2, L3, L4. Pain and partial paralysis. Dennis was able to join us at the luncheon today, after just one month post-op. He is much better and doing his therapy. He thanked us for the get well card.

Jim Threadgill: While visiting his family with his wife Peggy in North Carolina, Jim had a heart attack. He was Care-flown back to Dallas and had triple by-pass surgery on Sept. 2nd. He is doing well. Frances Hawkins is keeping up with Jim’s progress and reports that he is recovering well.

John Bynum: Johnny’s wife called Dottie a few weeks ago to say that he had a stroke. Dottie thinks he is doing OK since she hasn’t heard any more from his wife and he was supposed to attend the luncheon today. He will be 92 in September. If anyone has his mailing address, please email it to Eileen or Marv. He is not in the directory. Dottie will try to follow up and let us know how Johnny is doing.

Deaths

Wendy Sue Rickman

October 10, 1953 - August 24, 2016

Wendy Sue Rickman age 62 died on August 24, 2016 at the VA North Texas Hospital. Wendy was born on October 10, 1953 in Brooklyn, New York to Elmore and Maxine Rickman. She grew up there and after high school pursued her passion of becoming a nurse. She graduated Nursing school in 1977. She immediately began work at the Brooklyn VA hospital. She worked there until 1985 when she proudly joined the Air Force. She received a Master’s Degree in counseling from Midwestern State University while on active duty. After her service as a captain in the Air Force she moved from Wichita Falls to Dallas in 1990. Wendy was currently still practicing as an RN and psychotherapist. She has helped many people in her private practice and through her Road to Recovery outpatient practice. She was passionate about her work helping others.

She presently resided in Garland Texas with Martin Trevino. She is also survived by her nephews Jeremy Rickman and Ethan Rickman whom she loved as sons, also her sisters in law Suzanne Gray and Joni Ellis. She is preceded in death by her brothers Robert Rickman and Bruce Ellis.

Wendy was a spiritual woman with a strong relationship with God. This was evident in everything she did. She is deeply loved by many. If you would like to attend her viewing it will be Saturday August 27, 2016 at 5:00 P.M and Funeral Service at 6:00 P.M. at Aria Cremation Service, 10116 E Northwest Highway, Dallas, TX 75238

For Obituary click here

Although Wendy was not an E-Systems/Raytheon employee, she was a long time friendly face at Garland. She helped many employees through the Employee Assistance Program (EAP), so, I thought ya’ll might like to know about her passing last week.

Announcements

Bill Ersthaller’s son Paul has sent me Bill’s WW II military diary from when he was a B-24 navigator to share with the retirees. Marv has added a link to it from the website. It will be password protected with the same password as the member directory file. I have read a few of the entries already and it is very interesting. The book has also been published once and is currently in its second edition printing. If you like what you see and would like a hardcopy let me know and I’ll ask Paul if we can order. He would love to get feedback about the diary as well.

The Way Back Machine

Is that Tom (George) Wakefield?

Recognize anyone from 1982?

Currently, email notifications about events and other information are sent through the yahoo group esyrayretirees-subscribe@yahoogroups.com. This has proven to be confusing to many especially during the invitation process for this Open House. Anyone can and has been added to the Yahoo group and we have no way to tell for sure who they are and if a retiree. Marv and I are trying to come up with a better way. Any suggestions would be appreciated!

Feel free to send me information for next meeting to

emmawahlstrom@aol.com

Mark your calendars! The October meeting will be on the 26th.

There were several eye glasses donated at this month’s meeting. I will continue collecting each month. I will be sure to give them to The Lion’s Club to donate to people that need them.

Trivia Question:

October Question

What was the name of the mascot of the energy savings initiative? Hint: Named after a former Facilities Director.

Answer: Eddie Save-A-Watt

Eileen Wahlstrom

E-SYSTEMS/RAYTHEON RETIREES LUNCH GROUP

By Eileen Wahlstrom

August 31, 2016

PRESENT: 44

FIRST TIME: John Boucher and wife Becky, Mike Ratcliff

LONG TIME: Terry Parsons and wife Marian (all the way from Palestine), Bob Schleifer (been 5 years).

Guests: Marian Parsons, Becky Boucher. John Talbert brought his new wife Margaret for us to meet.

SICKNESS:

Sharon Carter: Had lunch with Sharon and the E-Systems/Raytheon women’s retirees’ luncheon last Wednesday. She is doing great and going to therapy after her heart surgery from a few months ago.

George Hood: Eileen stopped by to visit with George. They are still in Garland with his mother-n-law until George is released from memory therapy. His family has been through a lot with George’s aneurism and the loss of his son-n-law. Mark McCullers remains were located last week on the banks of the Trinity River.

Dennis York: Had back surgery at UTSW Medical Center, Zale Lipsy Hospital on Monday, August 29th. Lower back, L2, L3, L4. Pain and partial paralysis. Doctor expects at least four weeks to recover.

Sue Hartson: Sue’s first day moving into her house on the 30th, she was carrying a big box and tripped on the rug. She fell and has a bruised rib.

Jim Threadgill: While visiting his family with his wife Peggy in North Carolina, Jim had a heart attack. He was Care-flown back to Dallas and had triple by-pass surgery on Sept. 2nd. He is doing well.

John Bynum: Johnny’s wife called Dottie a few weeks ago to say that he had a stroke. Dottie thinks he is doing OK since she hasn’t heard any more from his wife and he was supposed to attend the luncheon today. He will be 92 in September. If anyone has his mailing address, please email it to Eileen or Marv. He is not in the directory.

Reeder Barkman: Reeder missed the luncheon again. He must be feeling bad because he hasn’t been to the last four or five luncheons.
From Reeder himself with his permission: I miss going to the luncheon.  The Cancer has gotten into my right leg and I can’t stand very long without it hurting.  I got dehydrated and the  VA put me in the Hospital for a couple of days and while I was there I had a fall and had to stay longer.  The pain is still in my right hip and they are talking about Radiation on that hip.  Soon, I hope.  My Doctor said that might take the pain away.  Not much good going on.  My Sister is on life support now and no hope. (She actually passed away today)

Deaths

William (Bill) Ersthaler

December 26, 1924 – August 21, 2016

William Richard Ersthaler (Bill) passed away on August 21, 2016 at the age of 91.

Bill was born in Detroit, Michigan on the 26th of December,1924 to Gustav and Louise Ersthaler.

He graduated from Cass Technical High School in 1943 and enlisted in the Air Force. After graduating from Navigation School he joined the 22nd Bomber Group as a navigator and was deployed to the South Pacific. He flew 65 combat missions, was shot down and crash landed in Borneo. Bill received an Air Medal with Bronze Star, the Philippines Liberation Medal with Bronze Battle Star, American Theater Ribbon, America Theater Ribbon with Silver Battle Star, and Overseas Service Bar and Victory Metal. He was released from service in January 1946. He attended Wayne State University and graduated in 1950 with a degree in Industrial Psychology.

He married Paulina Lee Potter on April 9, 1950. Bill worked as Director of Human Resources at LTV and E-Systems, retiring as Vice President in 1990. Read more in his obituary: Click here

Wendy Sue Rickman

October 10, 1953 - August 24, 2016

Wendy Sue Rickman age 62 died on August 24, 2016 at the VA North Texas Hospital. Wendy was born on October 10, 1953 in Brooklyn, New York to Elmore and Maxine Rickman. She grew up there and after high school pursued her passion of becoming a nurse. She graduated Nursing school in 1977. She immediately began work at the Brooklyn VA hospital. She worked there until 1985 when she proudly joined the Air Force. She received a Master’s Degree in counseling from Midwestern State University while on active duty. After her service as a captain in the Air Force she moved from Wichita Falls to Dallas in 1990. Wendy was currently still practicing as an RN and psychotherapist. She has helped many people in her private practice and through her Road to Recovery outpatient practice. She was passionate about her work helping others.

She presently resided in Garland Texas with Martin Trevino. She is also survived by her nephews Jeremy Rickman and Ethan Rickman whom she loved as sons, also her sisters in law Suzanne Gray and Joni Ellis. She is preceded in death by her brothers Robert Rickman and Bruce Ellis.

Wendy was a spiritual woman with a strong relationship with God. This was evident in everything she did. She is deeply loved by many. If you would like to attend her viewing it will be Saturday August 27, 2016 at 5:00 P.M and Funeral Service at 6:00 P.M. at Aria Cremation Service, 10116 E Northwest Highway, Dallas, TX 75238

For Obituary click here

Although Wendy was not an E-Systems/Raytheon employee, she was a long time friendly face at Garland. She helped many employees through the Employee Assistance Program (EAP), so, I thought ya’ll might like to know about her passing last week.

Feel free to send me information for next meeting to

emmawahlstrom@aol.com

Mark your calendars! The September meeting will be on the 28th.

I forgot to mention……if you have any eye glasses that you don’t use any more, please bring them to the luncheon. I will be sure to give them to The Lion’s Club to donate to people that need them.

Trivia Question:

July's Question

What was the name of the E-Systems commercial product of massive tape storage and retrieval?

Answer: EMASS (I didn’t hear from Terry who got this answer correct)

August's Question

What does the acronym ESOP represent? How about the acronym ROSES?

Answer: ESOP - Employee Stock Ownership Program – Jim Wilson
ROSES - Recruitment Of Selected Engineering Skills – Jim Wilson

Terry Gaus reminded everyone that prior to ROSES we had “Recruit A Friend” with Charlie Brown and his buddies as the mascots.

September's Question

Eileen Wahlstrom

E-SYSTEMS/RAYTHEON RETIREES LUNCH GROUP

By Terry Gaus and Eileen Wahlstrom

July 27, 2016

PRESENT: 48

FIRST TIME(Long Time): Brad Scott, Billy Eaton

Guests: None

SICKNESS:

Sharon Carter: Does anyone have news to share? Nothing to report

Carolyn Gambrell: Bobby said Carolyn is doing pretty well. He has missed a few meetings due to an extended visit to California.

Reeder Barkman: Reeder was absent so I called to check on him. He has missed the last two meetings. He said his doctor changed his chemo and it knocks him down. He doesn’t get around very well right afterwards. Eileen called to check on him and he is very limited to where he can go due to weakness in his legs.

George Hood: Eileen stopped by to visit with George. They are still in Garland with his mother-n-law until George is released from memory therapy.

Deaths

Ruby Hardin

October 1952 – July 2016

Ruby J. Hardin, 63, of San Angelo, passed away July 12, 2016.

She was born in San Angelo, Texas, on Oct. 7, 1952. Ruby graduated from Central High School. She worked in Security for Raytheon. Ruby had a passion for crafts.

She is survived by her brothers and sisters, Stanley Hall, Willie Mae Haynes, Larry Hardin, Barry Hardin and Elizabeth Hardin. Family and friends may sign an online guestbook at www.johnsons-funeralhome.com"

Ruby worked in Security with Dottie, Kaye Smith and others. DoD Document Control was her department before she was laid off.

Feel free to send me information for next meeting to

emmawahlstrom@aol.com

Mark your calendars! The August meeting will be on the 31st.

Trivia Question:

July's Question

What was the name of the E-Systems commercial product of massive tape storage and retrieval?

Answer: EMASS

August's Question

What does the acronym ESOP represent? How about the acronym ROSES?

Answer

Eileen Wahlstrom

E-SYSTEMS/RAYTHEON RETIREES LUNCH GROUP

By Eileen Wahlstrom

June 29, 2016

PRESENT: 49

FIRST TIME(Long Time): Dennis York

Guests: Sharon (Julie Gilbert’s friend)

SICKNESS:

Sharon Carter: Rita Hall reported that she saw Sharon at the ladies’ luncheon last week and she was doing quite well! Carolyn Kerr told us that Sharon is getting heart therapy and is progressing as the doctors wanted. Great news!

Carolyn Gambrell: Bobby was absent. I tried to call and text Bobby, but, did not get a reply.

Joe Vulk: No word about Joe’s progress with his radiation/chemo.

Reeder Barkman: Reeder was absent so I called to check on him. He has missed the last two meetings. He said his doctor changed his chemo and it knocks him down. He doesn’t get around very well right afterwards.

George Hood: I spoke with Janet Hood about how George is doing. They are still in Garland with her mother. George is undergoing therapy for his memory loss. Long term is still fine, but, short term is not.

Deaths

Louise Douglas

March 21, 1924 – June 14, 2016

Ella Louise Pinder Douglas (Louise)was born March 21, 1924 in Greensboro, Maryland to Herb & Elsie Pinder and passed away June 14, 2016. She is survived by her daughters Marilyn Lawley & husband Larry; Tammy Douglas; son Jeff Douglas & wife Theresa; grandchildren Shelley Werner & husband Coy; Lisa McLeod; Stacey Guenther & husband Mike; Ellee Wolverton; great-grandchildren Jennifer Werner, Matthew Werner, Mitch McLeod, & Brittany Quaila, Lillie Faith Olivo, Lilian Grace Guenther; great great-grandchildren Damien Werner, Kaleb Quaila & Olivia Quaila.

SERVICES for Louise are Monday, June 20, 2016 at 1:00 PM in Williams Memorial Chapel, with a visitation the night before at Williams Funeral Directors from 6:00-8:00 PM

Louise had been a Garland resident since 1954. She was an active member of First Christian Church until she was struck by Alzheimer's. It started out with confusion but steadily progressed over the past 8 years to where she no longer knew her family & friends. She was a strong-willed woman & fought to hang on until we finally convinced her to let go so she could go to be with our Lord & reunite with our dad who passed in 1979. Being the strong woman she was, she settled into widowhood. She worked for a number of years to finish raising two children who came along later in life. She retired from E-Systems & loved the Women's Club going along on their many trips.

Dottie Vaughn and Bertha Hall attended her funeral service.

Toni Lee Sumberlin

June 14, 1953 – November 14, 2015

Toni worked in the telephone office. Carolyn Boone let us know about Toni. Even though we missed a timely notification of her passing, it’s good to know.

Click here for full Obituary Toni Lee Sumberlin

Ron Ching

October 14, 1949 – July 2, 2016

Ronald Stephen Ching was born October 14, 1949 in Mobile, Alabama; and passed away on July 2, 2016 at home in Murphy, Texas. He earned a Bachelor's Degree in Mathematics from the University of South Alabama and a Master's Degree in Engineering from the University of Texas at Arlington. Ron served in the United States Army as an aviator and a paratrooper. He retired from Raytheon in 2016. Ron also served as a Deacon and faithful Bible Teacher, as a member of the First Baptist Church of Murphy. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather and friend.

Click here for full Obituary Ron Ching

Feel free to send me information for next meeting to

emmawahlstrom@aol.com

Mark your calendars! The July meeting will be on the 27th.

Trivia Question:

June's Question

What was E-Systems’ first transition name after being purchased by Raytheon? Bonus: Name the others in transition order.

Answer: E-Systems a Raytheon Company (Jim Gray)

Bonus: Raytheon E-Systems (Jim Wilson), Raytheon Systems, Raytheon Company, Raytheon

July's Question

What was the name of the E-Systems commercial product of massive tape storage and retrieval?

Answer

Eileen Wahlstrom

E-SYSTEMS/RAYTHEON RETIREES LUNCH GROUP

By Eileen Wahlstrom

May 25, 2016

PRESENT: 46

FIRST TIME(Long Time): Jim and Carolyn Stehn been over a year!

Guests: Sharon visited with Julie Gilbert again. Glad she came!

SICKNESS:

Sharon Carter: Had open heart surgery at the Mayo Clinic yesterday. Everything went well and she will be recovering there for a week or so.

Carolyn Gambrell: No Update from Bobby, but, I saw they are vacationing in California so that’s a good sign.

Joe Vulk: Diagnosed with prostate cancer. Starting radiation

Deaths

Raymond Woodland

January 5, 1928 - April 5, 2016

No photo available

Survived by his wife Gail, son Gary & family. He retired from Raytheon and the US Air Force. He was chairman of the Board of Monica Park Christian Church in Garland and President of Frontiers of Flight Museum. He was also appointed Admiral of the Texas Navy by Gov. Rick Perry. His service will be Mon, May 9, at Monica Park Christian Church in Garland at 10:30 and buried at the Dallas National Cemetery.

Click here for full Obituary Raymond Woodland Obituary

Lavoy Roach

May 14, 1929 – May 10, 2016

Lavoy Roach age 86, of Garland, Texas was born on May 14, 1929 in Gracemont, Oklahoma with his twin brother Lavon. A devoted husband and father, he passed away on May 10, 2016. He is preceded in death by his wife of 59 years Oleta Roach. Lavoy graduated from Gracemont High School in 1948. He worked for Safeway for 3 years then moved to Texas in 1951. Lavoy served in the United States Army from 1952 - 1954. Upon his discharge he worked for Temco and E-Systems for 38 1/2 years before retiring in 1989. He was a devoted member of First at Firewheel. Oleta had a Shaklee business for 35 years and Lavoy helped her until she passed in 2009. They earned trips all over the world and a new car every 2 years during the 35 years business. Lavoy leaves behind a very special son Robert (who was born on May 14,1961) and a twin brother Lavon. He is preceded in death by his father in 1975, mother in 1995 and sister.

Visitation will be Saturday May 14 from 5 - 7 p.m. and Sunday 2 - 3 p.m. at

Williams Funeral Directors with a Celebration of Life Service at 3 p.m. in Williams Memorial Chapel.

Ray E. Melton

January 3, 1931 - May 16, 2016

Melton, Ray Emory was born January 3, 1931 in Sylvester, Georgia and passed away May 16, 2016.

He graduated from Sylvester High School in Sylvester Georgia in 1950. He was a great athlete and lettered in all sports. He was also invited to play in the 1950 All-Star Football game in Atlanta, Georgia. He received a football scholarship to Clemson University in South Carolina. In 1951 he joined the United States Marine Corps. He was assigned duty for the Atomic Bomb testing in May, 1952 at the Atomic Energy Commission Proving Grounds at Castle Desert Rock, Nevada. He served in the Korean War. On June 1, 1954 he played football for the Marine Corps in the Rice Bowl against the Air Force in Tokyo, Japan.

After being honorably discharged in 1954 he became a Civil Servant worker for the Marine Base in Albany, Georgia. Ray was then transferred to the Pearl Harbor Naval Base in Honolulu, Hawaii in 1959. After leaving Hawaii he began work as an Electrician in Dallas. He and Rose settled in Garland and lived there for 20 years before retiring to Mineola, Texas.  He is retired from Southern Methodist University as a High Voltage Electrician and Communications specialist for the Mustang Football team. Ray is also retired from Wood County (Lake Hawkins) after moving to Mineola, Texas.

He is survived by his wife of 50 years, Rose Williams Melton; Children Melanie (John) Parks of Rowlett, Texas; Danny (Merydith) Melton of Prosper, Texas; Grandchildren; Katie Parks; Peyton Parks; Emmery Melton and Landry Melton; Sisters and Brother; Patricia Sims; Christene Kilcrease and Larry Melton; Nieces; Nephews and cousins. He was preceded in death by Sister and Brothers; Betty Hoover; Gerald Melton and James Melton.

Ray had a zest and love of life. People often called him the Mayor of Hainesville, the small town he and wife Rose retired too. His passion was fishing on Sundowner Lake in his boat…well any lake he could get too. He loved growing tomatoes and gardening. But mostly he loved meeting and visiting with people

A Memorial service celebrating his life will be held on Saturday, May 21 at 2:00 p.m. at Aria Memorial Chapel, 19310 Preston Road, Dallas, Texas 75252 with Rev. Jerry Hays officiating.

Feel free to send me information for next meeting to

emmawahlstrom@aol.com

Mark your calendars! The June meeting will be on the 29th.

Trivia Question:

May's Question

How many floors was Building 584 originally designed to have when in full use?

Answer: 584 was designed to have 4 floors when fully implemented.  A second 4 floor building 586 on the south side of the power house 585 was in the long range plan which would be full implementation of Garland division capable of handling 6000 employees on site. John Talbert

Bonus: What was the original use of the area where The Learning Center now is on the first floor of 584?

Answer: Cafeteria. Phil Zeigelbaum

June's Question

What was E-Systems’ first transition name after being purchased by Raytheon?

Bonus: Name the others in transition order.

Eileen Wahlstrom

E-SYSTEMS/RAYTHEON RETIREES LUNCH GROUP

By Eileen Wahlstrom

April 27, 2016

PRESENT: 61

FIRST TIME(Long Time): Phil Ziegelbaum and Susan Harrison (attended a few times, but, this was his first “official” luncheon.)

Guests: Carroll Bunch introduced Lt. Colonel Barry Kibbe to speak about the Rivet Joint project. The presentation was awesome and unique coming from our customer’s perspective. Thank you so much Lt. Colonel Kibbe!

SICKNESS:

George Hood: Retired from the Print Shop last December is in outpatient therapy from experiencing a brain aneurysm in mid March. He is temporarily back in Garland, staying with family, while going to Baylor for his memory loss therapy.

Carolyn Gambrell: Wife of Bobby Gambrell, has been in and out of the hospital this month. Her diagnosis is still sketchy, but, a blood clot in her spleen may be causing her problems.

John Calvert: Dottie reported that John has injured his hand while working with his cattle. He had to be hospitalized due to infection

Deaths

No deaths to report

Feel free to send me information for next meeting to

emmawahlstrom@aol.com

Mark your calendars! The May meeting will be on the 25th.

Trivia Question:

April's Question

What year was E-Systems acquired by Raytheon?

Bonus: What was the amount Raytheon paid to purchase E-Systems?

Answer: Jim Gray 1995

Bonus Answer: Terry Gaus - 2.3 Billion

Another trivia question for April since the answers were given at the meeting…… ;0)

How many vehicle entry gates did the plant have in the 80s? Answer: Three

Bonus: What event initiated the closing of all but one gate? Answer: The Attack on the World Trade Center September 11, 2001. Do you remember where you were?

May's Question

How many floors was Building 584 originally designed to have when in full use?

Bonus: What was the original use of the area where The Learning Center now is on the first floor of 584?

Eileen Wahlstrom

E-SYSTEMS/RAYTHEON RETIREES LUNCH GROUP

By Eileen Wahlstrom

March 30, 2016

PRESENT: 43 and 1/2 (JIm Gray's little grandson was a guest)

FIRST TIME(Long Time):Bill Ersthaler, Paulette Armstrong, Charlie Gros

Guests: Nick Gray (Jim’s son) and family, Julie Gilbert’s friend Sharon

SICKNESS:

George Hood: Retired from the Print Shop last December is in the hospital in Little Rock. He had a very serious brain aneurysm about two weeks ago and luckily was taken to a large hospital where they did surgery to repair the rupture. He is in ICU and will be in rehab soon. Another surgery is scheduled for Friday. A card has been sent.

Guy Schoffield: Getting better from the thyroid surgery. A card has been sent.

Sharon Carter: Waiting on word from the Mayo Clinic about her upcoming heart surgery. She is feeling better and was at the ladies’ luncheon last week.

Bill Ersthaler: reported on several E-Teamers’ past afflictions. Old news, so hopefully they have recovered from their ordeals. Bernie Malin underwent bypass surgery, Pat Baranek contracted an eye virus and is losing site in that eye, Sharon Wall had a non-cancerous tumor at the base of her skull. Bill told us that he hasn’t heard any updates for several months, but, wanted us to know. Thanks, Bill.

Deaths

Harold (Hal) W. Furlong

November 11, 1930 - March 3, 2016

Harold William Furlong, 85, of Round Rock Texas, died of natural causes on March 3, 2016, at his son's home in Round Rock, Texas.

Mr. Furlong was born on November 11, 1930, in Detroit Michigan to Calvin and Noreen Furlong.

He was married to Mary Perez until she died from cancer.

He enjoyed astronomy, football, skiing, tennis, RC planes, painting and was an accomplished piano player and guitar player.

He is survived by his 5 children, Calvin (Osun) Furlong, Jeannette (David) Havens, Jaime (Laina) Furlong, Teresa (Charles) Furlong Yost and Kathleen (Tom) Furlong Bryant and 13 grandchildren and 10 great grandchildren

He served in the National Guard, then in the U.S. Navy. After an honorable discharge from the Navy, he attended and graduated from Texas A&M with a Bachelor Science Electrical Engineering Degree.

Hal began his career working for the CIA during the late '50s. He traveled around the world, watched the Berlin Wall go up and eventually landed in New England, working for a company doing defense work for the Navy. Yearning to get back to Texas, Hal returned to Dallas with his wife and five children in 1973. He retired in 1993 from E-Systems as Program Manager in charge of operations and maintenance for Australia, where he also lived for several years with his family.

Hal, who was bilingual, has utilized his diverse work and cultural experience in volunteering as a computer consultant for the Organization for Latin America (OLA), an agency serving recent and long-time immigrants. OLA, located in St. Mark's Catholic Church in Plano, provides many services for immigrants including job training, placement, counseling for legal matters, housing problems and English classes.

Linda Pearson Burris

August 9, 1963 - March 8, 2016

Linda worked for E-Systems as the Safety Manager. Prior to that, retired CIA. She suffered from MS for approximately 20 years fighting the terrible disease until her death.

Click here for full Obituary Linda Burris Obituary

William Alderdice

August 30, 1925 - March 18, 2016

Bill was the head of security at Garland for many years.  He died on Friday, March 18th.  Services were held March 22, at The Redeemer Bible Church, 721 Easton Road in Dallas.

Click here for full Obituary William Alderdice Obituary

Andrew “Andy” Robert McCulloch

July 30, 1932 - March 21, 2016

Andrew “Andy” Robert McCulloch died peacefully in his home surrounded by his loving wife and six children on Monday, March 21st, in Dallas, Texas. He was 83 years of age.

Andy is survived by his wife, Paula Carter McCulloch; his children, Laura McCulloch Gibbs, Janis McCulloch Langford, Bobby McCulloch, Lisa McCulloch, Kathleen “Casey” McCulloch Niederhofer and Clint McCulloch; sisters Sheila McCulloch England and Eileen McCulloch Norman, 10 grandchildren and one great grandchild. He is preceded in death by his father, Robert McCulloch and mother, Elizabeth Kilgour McCulloch

Andy was born on July 30th, 1932 in Dundalk, Maryland. After living in Nashville and Los Angeles, the McCulloch family moved to Dallas in 1945. Andy graduated from Woodrow Wilson High School in 1951, served in the United States Air Force for four years and earned degrees in business and law from Southern Methodist University.

Early in his career Andy worked for Temco, which later became Ling Temco Vaught (LTV) and E-Systems. After law school, he was in private practice before serving as corporate counsel for UTL Corporation until his retirement

Click here for full Obituary Andy McCulloch Obituary

Announcements

Terry Gaus told us all about his discovery of unclaimed property and asked us to check for ourselves. I believe this is the website he referenced. http://comptroller.texas.gov/up/ Check it out!

Dottie Vaughnbrought her framed “Thank You” notes from fellow retirees showing their appreciation for her leadership for 25 years. In case you missed it, here is the picture of her receiving an appreciation plaque in December

Please check your information on the Retiree Information List. The link and password are on the web site http://www.esyray.com/. Click on the “Retirees” tab at the top.

More and more greeting cards are being returned and emails are bouncing. Please email Marv Olson at esyraywebmaster@gmail.com to make updates or to be added.

If you would like to receive email notifications about events and other information you must send a separate email request to esyrayretirees-subscribe@yahoogroups.com.

Jim Gray has additional prints of the Retirees’ Luncheon 25th Anniversary photo from last January. You can email him at jimagray@flash.net.

The New Website?

Marv has added links to both of the Retiree Facebook Groups. Look in the top right corner of the home page.

Thanks Marv!

Feel free to send me information for next meeting to

emmawahlstrom@aol.com

Mark your calendars! The April meeting will be on the 27th.

Trivia Question:

March's question:

What part/departments of E-Systems occupied the building that now belongs to the Garland Independent School District administration?

Bonus: What company did E-Systems purchase the building from?

Answer:Terry Gaus –“Datacom was in the annex (both floors), FSAS was on the first floor, SIVAM started there on the third floor before moving to 551.”

Bonus Answer: Oil Well

April's Question

What year was E-Systems acquired by Raytheon?

Bonus: What was the amount Raytheon paid to purchase E-Systems?

Answer: Jim Gray 1995

Bonus Answer: Terry Gaus - 2.3 Billion

Another trivia question for April since the answers were given at the meeting…… ;0)

How many vehicle entry gates did the plant have in the 80s?

Bonus: What event initiated the closing of all but one gate?

Eileen Wahlstrom

E-SYSTEMS/RAYTHEON RETIREES LUNCH GROUP

By Eileen Wahlstrom

February 24, 2016

PRESENT: 43

FIRST TIME(Long Time):Clay Jones, Rick Lowe

Guests: Sharon (Julie Gilbert’s guest), Carl Hinman

SICKNESS:

Guy Schoffield – Reported from Karen (Sokatch) Ebling. Assume you have heard his health concerns. We tried to get together with them recently and he said check back in May or June. He had thyroid surgery and has apparently lost his voice. Apparently not getting out much until then.

Follow up on Guy from Karen. His voice is improving and comes and goes, and he has other health concerns as well.

Deaths

Edmund Refalko

1925-2016

RAFALKO, Edmund Rafalko Major General Edmund A. Rafalko, USAF ret., beloved husband and father of father of five, military leader and command pilot, accomplished athlete and sports enthusiast, devoted and loyal friend, died February 7, 2016. Service: A memorial service will be held at the Church of the Incarnation at the University of Dallas, Dallas, Texas on Friday, March 11, 2016 at 2:00 pm. Memorials: For those wishing to do so, donations may be made in memory of Edmund A Rafalko to the athletic departments of the US Military Academy at West Point, New York (Army A Club) or the US Air Force Academy, Colorado (Falcon Pride Club). Edmund Anthony Rafalko was born in Stoughton, Massachusetts on August 6, 1924. He was an athletic standout, Valedictorian of his class in 1942 and inducted into the Stoughton High School Hall of Fame for Extraordinary Achievement in 1986. Edmund graduated from the US Military Academy at West Point in 1945 where he lettered in baseball, basketball and football and was selected an Honorable Mention All American by the Associated Press and the Sporting News. He was the last surviving starter of the first National Champion football team of 1944. - See more at:

Lester Leon Reagan

September 1926 – May 2015

Lester Leon Reagan, 88, a thirty year resident of Rockwall, Texas, passed from this life on May 14, 2015. He was born September 28, 1926 in Sunset, Texas to Walter Lee and Bertha Gustava Singleton Reagan. He married his soul mate, Patty Sue Lewis, on August 6, 1951. The oldest of seven children, he graduated from Boles Home High School in 1942. He proudly served his country in the U.S. Army for 26 years, attaining the rank of Lt. Colonel. A Veteran of World War II, Korea, and the Berlin Crisis, he retired from the military in 1965. He subsequently received his BS & MS degrees from East Texas State University and achieved the status of ABD at North Texas State University, finally retiring from E-Systems in 1993. A faithful servant of God, he was a pulpit minister for the Lord's church for many years, sharing the Gospel with others to the very end. His devotion to his family and love of his many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great- grandchildren was evident to all. He was preceded in death by his parents, one brother Milton Reagan, one sister Charlene Reagan, one granddaughter Patricia Eakes, and one great granddaughter Heaven Leigh Burleson. He is survived by his wife of almost 64 years, Dr. Patty Lewis Reagan, three children, Kathleen Reagan Marquez and husband Jerry, Randy Leon Reagan and wife Barbara, Karen Reagan Mann and husband John, eleven grandchildren, twenty-nine great-grandchildren, and six great-great-grandchildren. He is also survived by two brothers, Walter Donald Reagan and wife Wanda, Billy Dewayne Reagan and wife Maureen, two sisters, Juanita Reagan King and husband Edward, and Loretta Reagan Mendoza and husband Jesus, many nieces and nephews, and a host of brothers and sisters in Christ. The family will receive guests Friday, May 22, 2015 from 6:00-8:00 P.M. at Sparkman/Hillcrest Funeral Home, 7405 W Northwest Highway, Dallas, TX. A private Graveside Service is scheduled at Hillcrest Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials be made to St. Jude Children's Medical Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, or Children's Medical Center, Dallas, TX.

Feel free to send me information for next meeting to

emmawahlstrom@aol.com

Mark your calendars! The March meeting will be on the 30th.

Trivia Question:

February’s question:

Who drove the bulldozer during the ground breaking ceremony for building 580? Bonus: Who was also in the dozer assisting the driver? What was painted on the front of the bucket?

Answer: Bennie Poarch was with John Dixon in the dozer. “The dozer was placed just outside Bldg 575 on a small stretch of median.  It had been placed there by Benny Poarch.  Mr. John Dixon climbed aboard and Benny instructed him in how to drive and lower the blade.  Mr. Dixon drove a few inches forward and lowered the blade.  I believe that the blade had ESY- A New Beginning written on it.” Don Warner, Kemp Derrick and John Talbert

March's Question

What part/departments of E-Systems occupied the building that now belongs to the Garland Independent School District administration? Where were these parts/departments of E-Systems previously located? Bonus: What company did E-Systems purchase the building from?

Eileen Wahlstrom

E-SYSTEMS/RAYTHEON RETIREES LUNCH GROUP

By Eileen Wahlstrom

January 27, 2016

PRESENT: 59

FIRST TIME(Long Time):Sandy Genovesse, Bill Denig, Sylvia Vaughn and Milli DeWoody haven’t been with us in over a year.

Guests: Julie Gilbert brought a friend (Sharon), Pam Cox.

SICKNESS:

Sharon Carter has been in the hospital from a heart attack and was already dealing with Shingles. Sharon has a rare heart condition and is waiting on her cardiologist to decide if she needs surgery. The Mayo Clinic is where the surgery will be.

Skipper Cox - His throat cancer is getting worse. Cheryl Martin reported he has lost 70 pounds.

Deaths

I announced that the retirees had gone all month for the first time in a year without having to report a death. Probably, as I was speaking those words, Mrs. Margorie Davis was passing away. Her family reported that she died at 12:30 on the 27t

Marjorie Elizabeth Davis

Marjorie Elizabeth Davis, 91, of Wylie, Texas passed away on Wednesday, January 27, 2016 surrounded by her family. Marjorie was born in Parker, Texas on May 3, 1924 to the late Henry Grady Strain and Minda Lou Alice (Ford) Strain. Marjorie was a 1942 graduate of Plano High School. Marjorie along with her sister, Roberta Strain Smith were members of the Plano Wildcats State Girls Basketball Champions. After graduating Marjorie went to work for Sears-Roebuck on Ross Avenue in Dallas. Marjorie married John (Jay) P. Davis on May 15, 1943 in Rockwall, Texas. In 1948 Marjorie joined Luscombe and continued to work for the next 37 years with the company under as it changed names until she retired from E-Systems in 1985.

Feel free to send me information for next meeting to

emmawahlstrom@aol.com

Mark your calendars! The February meeting will be on the 24th.

Trivia Question:

December question:

What are the names of Raytheon Garland predecessor companies that were located at the Garland site?

ANSWER: E-Systems, LTV, TEMCO, Luscombe

January's Question

Prior to the "gorilla grinders", badge readers and ID codes, what process was used to allow cleared personnel into the closed areas?

ANSWER: You had to exchange your regular badge with the guard at the guard’s station at the door of the closed area for an inside closed area badge.  When you came out you exchanged your badge again to get your regular badge back.

Jerry Bryant

February's Question

Who drove the bulldozer during the ground breaking ceremony for building 580? Bonus: Who was also in the dozer assisting the driver? What was painted on the front of the bucket?

Eileen Wahlstrom

E-SYSTEMS/RAYTHEON RETIREES LUNCH GROUP

By Eileen Wahlstrom

December 30, 2015

PRESENT: 37

FIRST TIME(Long Time): The Wilson’s (been a loooong time)

Guests: Al Peterson brought his wife, Ruth.

SICKNESS:

Richard Recardo. had a kidney removed, his wife is also in the hospital with a broken hip.

Thanks to Barney Barnhart, he called, about Richard, Dottie talked to Mrs Barnhart later, Barney was taking a nap. I think Richard lives in Sachse.

Sharon Carter has been in the hospital from a heart attack and was already dealing with Shingles.

Don Schools – Don has made it through rehab from his aorta aneurism and is now home in Lake Way, outside of Austin. Doing much better.

Pat Byrner – She is doing much better now.

Deaths

John D. Martin

(Archived) Al DeJohn recently discovered news of John Martin’s passing last year. Published in The Times-Picayune from Dec. 12 to Dec. 17, 2014 John D. Martin, 74, passed peacefully on December 9, 2014 in Metairie, LA after a prolonged illness. He was son of the late Helen and...

Henry McNair

Services for Henry McNair, 68, of Wills Point, TX, are scheduled for 10:00 am Tuesday, December 15, 2015, at Lakeside Baptist Church in Canton, with Bro. Mark Moore officiating under the direction of Eubank Funeral Home in Canton, TX.

Frederick Emerson Brooks

From Curtis Ritchie – “This morning's (January 3rd) DMN contains an OBIT for Dr. Emerson Brooks who worked at ESY Garland from the early 60's until retirement in 1981. I knew him primarily from my days in Special Projects. He was one of the most brilliant people I had the pleasure to work with. There will be a memorial service sometime in mid January.”

Announcements

After the announcements we managed to surprise Dottie with an appreciation plaque and over $700.00 in donations from fellow retirees. There were tears of gratitude and heartfelt comments made by long time friends Becky Pacho and Bertha Hall. Upon receiving the plaque and gift Dottie said, “I’m going on a cruise! Thank you so much!” Dottie also sent a nice card in the mail thanking all the retirees saying that she is still overwhelmed! We love you, Dottie!

Also, Dottie asked me to let everyone know that we are invited to her 90th birthday party so mark it on your calendars! December 31, 2017! Location TBD!

 

Please check your informationon the Retiree Information List. The link and password are on the web site http://www.esyray.com/. Click on the “Retirees” tab at the top. More and more greeting cards are being returned and emails are bouncing. Please email Marv Olson at esyraywebmaster@gmail.com to make updates or to be added. If you would like to receive email notifications about events and other information you must send a separate email request to esyrayretirees-subscribe@yahoogroups.com.

Jim Gray has additional prints of the Retirees’ Luncheon 25th Anniversary photo from last January. You can email him at jimagray@flash.net.

Marv has added links to both of the Retiree Facebook Groups. Look in the top right corner of the home page.

Thanks Marv!

Feel free to send me information for next meeting to

emmawahlstrom@aol.com

Mark your calendars! The January meeting will be on the 27th.

Trivia Question:

December question:

What are the names of Raytheon Garland predecessor companies that were located at the Garland site?

ANSWER: E-Systems, LTV, TEMCO, Luscombe

January's Question

Prior to the "gorilla grinders", badge readers and ID codes, what process was used to allow cleared personnel into the closed areas?

Eileen Wahlstrom

E-SYSTEMS/RAYTHEON RETIREES LUNCH GROUP

By Eileen Wahlstrom and Dottie Vaughn

NOVEMBER 25, 2015

PRESENT: 25

FIRST TIME: John Harris

Guests: None

SICKNESS:

Richard Recardo. had a kidney removed, his wife is also in the hospital with a broken hip.

Thanks to Barney Barnhart, he called, about Richard, I talked to Mrs Barnhart later, Barney was taking a nap. I think Richard lives in Sachse.

Don Schools – Don has been in the hospital in Round Rock since November 10th dealing with an Aortic Aneurism. A previously repaired aneurisn started leaking and he lost a lot of blood before they caught it. He is improving and will be moved to rehab soon.

Mary Ellen Myers – Mary Ellen has been here recovering from foot surgery. She is doing great and will return to New Mexico possibly this week. She says it’s been a long time since she had straight toes!

Deaths

James Ervin Hyder Jr

James Ervin Hyder, Jr., a member of the Mineola Church of Christ, age 80 of Mineola, passed away November 1, 2015. He was born February 12, 1935 in Madison, TN to James Ervin Hyder, Sr. and Laura (Duke) Hyder. He served honorably in the U.S. Air Force during the Korean War. Mr. Hyder's love of airplanes led him to a career in the aviation industry working for Texas Instruments and Raytheon/ E-Systems in Special Projects.

Ronald Leslie Oliver

Ronald Leslie Oliver was born July 10, 1929 in London, England to Douglas Clifford Oliver and Maple (Hickson) Oliver and passed away November 5, 2015 in Dallas, Texas. He is survived by his sons: Gerald Michael Oliver, James Douglas Oliver & wife Laura, Kevin Sean Oliver and granddaughter, Brynna Rose Oliver. Ronald was preceded in death by his wife, Mary Kate Oliver; parents; brother, Gerald Oliver and sister, Marion Shattock. Funeral service were held 3:30pm Saturday, November 14, 2015 at Williams Memorial Chapel with interment to following at Garland Memorial Park. Following the burial, there was a reception at Williams Funeral Directors.

Pat Cochran

Cochran Pat Cochran, age 76, of Sachse, Texas, passed away November 13, 2015 in Richardson, Texas. She was born March 4, 1939 in Plano, Texas. Pat’s home address is 3517 Salmon, Sachse, Tx. 75048.

Marlené Elise (Marshall) Neathery

Marlené Elise (Marshall) Neathery, 52, wife of Charles, mother of Kyle and Trent, daughter of Gene and Pat Marshall, and sister of Michelle Crotty joined her beloved Jesus after a valiant short bout with cancer and its treatments. She served as a Worthy Advisor in The Order of Rainbows for Girls and in her pro

Announcements

Dottie announced the upcoming holiday event. I can’t believe Christmas is just a month away!

• December 12 – The Women’s Club - High Tea at the AdolphuHotel downtown Dallas! Contact Dottie ASAP to reserve your spot. Cost - $45 each plus $5 parking. Here is what Dallas Magazine has to say: http://sidedish.dmagazine.com/2010/03/23/tea-talk-the-adolphus/

 

Please check your informationon the Retiree Information List. The link and password are on the web site http://www.esyray.com/. Click on the “Retirees” tab at the top. More and more greeting cards are being returned and emails are bouncing. Please email Marv Olson at esyraywebmaster@gmail.com to make updates or to be added. If you would like to receive email notifications about events and other information you must send a separate email request to esyrayretirees-subscribe@yahoogroups.com.

Jim Gray has additional prints of the Retirees’ Luncheon 25th Anniversary photo from last January. You can email him at jimagray@flash.net.

Marv has added links to both of the Retiree Facebook Groups. Look in the top right corner of the home page.

Thanks Marv!

Feel free to send me information for next meeting to

emmawahlstrom@aol.com

Mark your calendars! The December meeting will be on the 30th….the day before New Year’s Eve! Bye-Bye 2015!.

Trivia Question:

November question

What was the unclassified name of the first program to occupy Building 583? --> Franklin

December question:

What are the names of Raytheon Garland predecessor companies that were located at the Garland site?

We missed Eileen also, hope she has a good Thanksgiving. She will be back in December.

We will see you on Wednesday Dec. 30th.

Thanks to everyone that came had more this year than last year.

Happy and SAFE Thanksgiving.

Dottie Vaughn and Eileen Wahlstrom

E-SYSTEMS/RAYTHEON RETIREES LUNCH GROUP

By Eileen Wahlstrom

October 28, 2015

PRESENT: 48

FIRST TIME (Long Time): Ken Linton, Steve Nelson, Gary Doyle, Faye Perdew, Patsy & Harold Jones, Jerry Hougen

Guests: None

SICKNESS:

Pat Bryner has Shingles. I’ve never had this, but, know people who have. Very painful from what they say. Pat, get well soon.

Deaths

Clifford Slagle

SLAGLE, Clifford V. Clifford V Slagle passed away September 25, 2015 due to complications from pancreatic cancer and Alzheimer’s…..He started his career at the Boeing Co., Seattle, WA. He moved to Texas Engineering and Manufacturing Co (TEMCO) in 1951 and retired over 35 years later from E-Systems in Greenville.

Announcements

Sue Anderson has volunteered to inherit the task of mailing out cards for deaths and illness. Please email me or Marv with any information so I can get it to her.

Dottie will be moderating the November 25th meeting. I will be camping. HAPPY THANKSGIVING!

Dottie announced two upcoming holiday events. I can’t believe Christmas is just 8 weeks away!

• December 5 – Arlington Music Hall Christmas Concert. Dottie has some tickets available at group rate of $22. There are less than 6 tickets still available to the public. “Burk Collins Country – 2015 Christmas Show” is always a huge hit during the holidays
• December 12 – The Women’s Club - High Tea at the AdolphuHotel downtown Dallas! Contact Dottie ASAP to reserve your spot. Cost - $45 each plus $5 parking. Here is what Dallas Magazine has to say: http://sidedish.dmagazine.com/2010/03/23/tea-talk-the-adolphus/

 

Please check your informationon the Retiree Information List. The link and password are on the web site http://www.esyray.com/. Click on the “Retirees” tab at the top. More and more greeting cards are being returned and emails are bouncing. Please email Marv Olson at esyraywebmaster@gmail.com to make updates or to be added. If you would like to receive email notifications about events and other information you must send a separate email request to esyrayretirees-subscribe@yahoogroups.com.

Jim Gray has additional prints of the Retirees’ Luncheon 25th Anniversary photo from last January. You can email him at jimagray@flash.net.

Marv has added links to both of the Retiree Facebook Groups. Look in the top right corner of the home page.

Thanks Marv!

Feel free to send me information for next meeting to

emmawahlstrom@aol.com

Mark your calendars! The November meeting will be on the 25th….the day before Thanksgiving.

Trivia Question:

Last month's question"

Who won the contest to rename Company from LTV Electrosystems to E-Systems? Hint: worked in subcontracts under Jake Jacobs

Answer: Neil Ventura (Johnny Gardner knew the answer and added to the trivia by telling us that Neil also was responsible for the “NEW” E-Systems sign which replaced the LTV sign

October question:

What was the unclassified name of the first program to occupy Building 583?

Eileen Wahlstrom

E-SYSTEMS/RAYTHEON RETIREES LUNCH GROUP

By Eileen Wahlstrom

September 23, 2015

PRESENT: 109

FIRST TIME: Lee Anschutz, Jesse Gilbert, Ken and Sarah Braswell, Judd Neff, Karen Schluese, George and Joanne Carlsness, John Pedrazza, Bobbie Storie, Paul Haydell, Rich Casey, Bill Floyd, and John McDonald

Guests: None

SICKNESS:

Ron Oliver

Ron had to have day surgery for an eating problem. He still has the nerve damage resulting from his Kidney removal surgery and can’t walk at all

Update on Al and Wanza Holley from Al himself:

Hello from Al Holley August 31:

Last day of August, Summer is over ...... In the olden days it was time to start picking cotton, pulling bolls, digging the potatoes and gathering the last of the corn crop.  The Hay crop came around the end of September. There was never an end of the work on the farm, only the beginning for winter. The lucky one's got to start to school on Sept 1, but the Farm Kids had to wait until around Oct. 1, to be able to start. Even they would sometimes be delayed until around the end of Oct. Hog killing and gathering the nut crop was the norm in October and November. People do not remember the hardships we went through during the Depression Times. Some children never got the chance to even start until after Christmas. Thankfully we are not in that situation today, but I am beginning to wonder how long we can stay away from those days. Today I feel fine and had a good night's sleep. We had our coffee around 5:15 and Wanza is feeling great as well. We will take Wanza  to the Specialist on Friday to get a fitting for her foot brace. It will take another two weeks to have it prepared. She is still undergoing her feet and leg exercises at home each day though. I am also doing my exercises for my feet and legs as well. I will contact her PCP today concerning the new medication for her  bones. That medication was stopped a couple of years ago due to the damage to her teeth. We would like to find out if there is an alternative medication.

The swelling in my legs and feet have been reduced to nearly normal. I have been wearing the Medical, tight fitting white hose, and sleeping with my feet and legs elevated. Thankfully, the lady taking care of Wanza has been a Healthcare Aid for over 20 years, and she has been a great help in this.

UPDATE September 8th:

Today I go to see the Wizard. The Wizard is the Physician that did the operation on my back. His name is Dr. Orosco, but to me he is a Wizard. I am nearly completely free of any soreness, and beginning to walk more upright each day. Who knows, I soon may be able to slap the spouse around.. She warned me right after marriage.  If I should get violent I would have to eventually go to sleep.  Then she would get even. That woman can be cruel.

At 4:50 this morning I am lying awake and thinking of my leg cramps again and there is sound in the background. Yes, it is Wanza ready for her coffee. We always do a bit of joking around at coffee time. I sing to her in a voice that is full of grunts and whistles, but my best. Somehow, she always manages to tell me to quit or just shut up. I guess a career in Music is not my calling. She is ready for the leg brace fitting again, but that is a week or so away. She is doing everything she should be doing to get back her lost abilities. I just hope the foot brace is the answer. Both of us are now as well as most people of our age, so we are not griping about anything. Wanza is just anxious to be able to walk around again, even if she has to use a walker.

Allan

Deaths

Wanda Huff

Wanda worked in Facilities, passed away recently. If anyone has details about Wanda please let me know. I cannot locate an obituary for her.

Mildred Fisher

Mildred worked in Manufacturing, from her daughter Karen Smith (1303 Sheppard Lane, Wylie 75098), a former Raytheon employee. Karen’s husband, Jay Smith, is still an employee at Garland.

“I wish there’s a better way to say/do this, but there’s not. My sweet mother lost her hard-fought battle with congestive heart failure last night. I am completely broken. Family visitation is Friday night (9-25) from 6-8 at Turrentine-Jackson-Morrow Funeral Home in Allen and her service is Saturday morning (9-26) at 10. Thank you all for your prayers.” http://www.turrentinejacksonmorrow.com/obituaries/mildred-milli-fisher-51214

Feel free to send me information for next meeting to

emmawahlstrom@aol.com

Due to the September 23rd luncheon at the Garland Site we will not have a monthly lunch meeting on September 30th.

Trivia Question:

Who won the contest to rename Company from LTV Electrosystems to E-Systems? Hint: worked in subcontracts under Jake Jacobs

Eileen Wahlstrom

E-SYSTEMS/RAYTHEON RETIREES LUNCH GROUP

By Eileen Wahlstrom

August 26, 2015

PRESENT: 65

FIRST TIME: George Hood, Bruce Capen, Doug Lange

Guests: Nonel

SICKNESS:

Update on Al and Wanza Holley from Al himself:

Hi to all from Tom Kummer,

My night was nothing to brag about. I think I went overboard with my walking yesterday. My back felt like there was no vertebrae in the area needed for bending over. When the back hurts, the legs feel a little pain. I had just enough pain to make me restless and I finally decided to take another Pain Pill. I only took one, but that was the first I had taken since the first day from the Hospital. I feel OK this morning, but I will utilize the wheelchair more today than yesterday. I am doing exercise routines each morning with the bicycle pedals. I will change my routines on leg exercises a bit today.

Wanza is still going along fine, but walking, even with a walker, is not showing much increase. I am hoping the leg brace will assist her in keeping her right foot in the proper position while walking. She will go for a fitting on Friday of next week, and it will take around two week to prepare the brace to improve her right foot positioning. She is not in any pain to speak of at this time. Her vital signs are still well below a level that would cause concerns. She has always been a fighter, and that is still in her actions.

Tom Kummer

Tom felt well enough to attend the luncheon today. He a report from the Surgeon who will remove his Gall Bladder in two weeks.

Art Harding

A note from Joe Shero with good news on Art Harding's health progress.

I talked with him on Monday and I'm really glad to say that is doing super. He sounds great and has only two more infusions before being listed as "cancer free"!

It was such a surprise to hear from him ....... and he was bouncing off the wall. He was, and is my best friend out there. After he had received the good news, his wife Mary kept saying ........... why don't you call Joe and I was so thrilled to hear that he was ok. He was very happy that everyone has been praying for him! He said he will be back after his last two treatments

Thank everyone for keeping Art and all of our sick and hurting co-workers from E-Systems and Raytheon in your thoughts and prayers. All of you are special to us.

Mildred Fisher

From Rita Hall and Carolyn Boone
Mildred used to work in the MIC Lab. Her daughter Karen Fisher Smith is a former E-Teamer and her son-n-law, Jay Smith, is still working at Raytheon. Mildred has recently been diagnosed with cancer.

Deaths

Alex Spencer

Alex Spencer (worked in Print Services died July 15)

Obituary is at: http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/dallasmorningnews/obituary.aspx?page=lifestory&pid=175340619

Joe Duer

Joe Duer (worked in Print Services died August 22)

Obituary is at: http://scogginsfuneralhome.com/obituaries/obituary-listings?obId=616268#/celebrationWall

Ida May Cox

Joe Cox lost his mother last week, August 18th. Ida May Cox

Obituary is at: http://obits.dignitymemorial.com/dignity-memorial/obituary.aspx?n=Ida-Cox&lc=4581&pid=175539641&mid=6561620&locale=en_US

Feel free to send me information for next meeting to

emmawahlstrom@aol.com

Due to the September 23rd luncheon at the Garland Site we will not have a monthly lunch meeting on September 30th.

Eileen Wahlstrom

E-SYSTEMS/RAYTHEON RETIREES LUNCH GROUP

By Eileen Wahlstrom

July 29, 2015

PRESENT: 60

FIRST TIME: Murray Erbock and Doug Elsass

Guests: Rita Hall’s granddaughter, Kendall

SICKNESS:

Hi to all from Tom Kummer,

I recently had a mild stroke and was sent to the Presbyterian Hospital Emergency and spent two days there. After coming home, two days passed and I became very ill and ended up in the Presbyterian emergency room again. I spent twelve days in the hospital because of an infection in my gallbladder. They ran a drainage tube between my ribs and into the gallbladder where in has been for six weeks. The Surgeon and my Cardiologist are conferring on the results of my stay in the hospital to decide if my heart can withstand the major surgery. Meanwhile, I still have my drainage bag hanging by my side. I miss not going to the Luncheon but hope to make it soon.
Say Hi to all,
Tom Kummer

Don Schools is doing well after two different medical procedures. He had an endoscopic scan of his stomach to check an ulcer. It has healed up on its own. Last week he had a cardio procedure, ablation, to correct an irregular heartbeat. It was a success.

Deaths

Armando Ramirez passed away July 20. A funeral service was held at 10:30 a.m., Friday, July 24, 2015, at Grace Bible Church, 11306 Inwood Road, Dallas, Texas, 75229. Interment took place at 10:30 a.m., on Monday, July 27, 2015, at Dallas-Fort Worth National Cemetery in Dallas, Texas. The family received friends during a visitation from 6:00 - 8:00 p.m., Thursday evening at Turrentine-Jackson-Morrow Funeral Home in Allen, Texas.

he full obituary is at: Armando Ramirez Jr.'s Obituary on ValleyStar.com

Mary Jo Glasson

Obituary

My wonderful wife just moved from my house to God's house. She was one strong lady that fought this horrible disease until her frail little body finally gave out. We couldn't have made it without our countless friends and your prayers. I hope I can thank each of you personally in the days to come.
When I know more, I will let you know.
God bless you, Wayne Glasson

Wayne Glasson recently took his beautiful wife home from the hospital to be cared for by hospice. Mary Jo had fought the good fight against the ravages of cancer, but one all too often fails to win that fight in the long run. So today we are sending our condolences and prayers to our friend, Wayne. Please join me in those expressions with faith for Wayne’s strength in this time of sorrow.

Written by Billy Mata, July 20, 2015: Mary Jo Glasson - went home to be with our Lord and savior today (July 19th). If there was a definition of the perfect musician’s wife, it would be her. As far a person goes, there's not a soul out there that can say one bad thing about this woman. She was everyone's friend and if you were in need, she would be first in line to help. We're gonna miss her so and I ask for prayers for her and her family, especially Wayne. She was and always will be his everything. God bless you my brother.

Feel free to send me information for next meeting to

emmawahlstrom@aol.com

See you August 26th!
Eileen Wahlstrom

E-SYSTEMS/RAYTHEON RETIREES LUNCH GROUP

By Eileen Wahlstrom

June 24, 2015

PRESENT: 48

FIRST TIME: George Sluzarcek (visiting from Galveston), John Reif, Guy Schoffield (I hope I spelled names correctly!)

Guests: None

SICKNESS:

Ron Oliver has been in a wheelchair since his surgery early this year. He is in the hospital now

Wanza Holley:
“The Exercise people are keeping Wanza busy with exercises. It seems like a slow train, but I can see improvement each week. She has such a long road to go before she will be able to function on her own. Today, she covered 35 steps by utilizing the Walker and the Therapist holding onto the Gate belt around her waist. You may laugh at such a milestone, but consider her mental state. She is afraid she will break the leg again. They have let her know that another broken leg will probably see her in a wheelchair for the rest of her days. Her vocabulary is on the minus side. I would be bragging to say she has over 30 words in her vocabulary.”

Allan Holley:
“The back pains have returned with a vengeance. I go in for another Epidural in two more days. Most of the pain is in my right hip and leg. That is area they will concentrate on this week. I am able to walk with a walker or by bending over quite a bit, but I am limited on the distance. Several options are open and we are in the beginning stage for now.”

Dottie talked to Darla Wycoff and her husband had back surgery and is doing ok.  He went home on June 9th

Dottie asked if anyone living near H.C.Chancey in Richardson could check in on him since it has been so long since she has heard anything from him. He lives on Rorary St.

Art Harding had surgery for colon cancer about 2 months ago. Joe Shero reported that Art is starting Chemo treatments.

Sue Hartson’s daughter, Kim Hartson, had surgery on June 15 and is doing fine

DEATHS:

Eager, Donald Ray

July 23, 1939 - May 31, 2015

Donald “Don” Ray Eager, age 75, passed away peacefully on May 31, 2015 at his home in Garland, TX with his family. Don was born July 23, 1939 in Denver, Colorado to the late Leslie H. and Mary Huckaby Eager. As a child he lived in Littleton, Colorado, Amarillo, Texas, and McAllen, Texas before moving to Minden, Louisiana. Don graduated High School in Minden, Louisiana in 1957 and went on to attend Louisiana State University in Baton Rouge, LA. During the summers in college he worked for the US Geological Survey. He obtained a Bachelor of Science degree in Electrical Engineering from Louisiana State University in 1961. Upon graduation, he worked briefly for NASA before being inducted into the US Army.

In the Army he was stationed at White Sands Missile range in NM.  He was honorably discharged from the Army in 1964. After his discharge, Don attended New Mexico State University in Las Cruces, NM obtaining a Masters of Science Degree in Electrical Engineering in 1965 and a Doctor of Science in Electrical Engineering  in 1967.  Upon graduation, he moved to Richardson, TX to begin his career.  He worked for Texas Instruments and LTV before finding a home at E-Systems (now Raytheon)  in Garland, TX where he worked from 1972 until his retirement 1994.

After his retirement from E Systems, Don continued his love of learning by obtaining a Master of Arts from Amber University in 1994 and a Master of Science in Applied Cognition and Neuroscience from University of Texas at Dallas in 1999.  Don wrote and published software titles including a successful Spanish language learning program

Reading on a wide range of topics was always a favorite activity for him. Don enjoyed wide open spaces and over the years took many trips to western states, especially to Colorado. He loved his family and spoiled his dogs. He will be deeply missed.  Donald Ray Eager is survived by his wife, Eva Bowland Eager, sons, Eric and Michael, as well as his grandsons, Collin and Cameron.

Note:  I met Don while we both worked on Special Projects.  He owned some property just over into Louisiana and I went with him one weekend to clear an overgrown road going back into his place.  He used a chainsaw on small trees in the road and I used hand tools.  Hot, humid, a lot of vines.  I was going to bring some firewood back but was just too tired to mess with it when we got ready to come back.  That was a rough weekend.

Don was a good woodworker.  He built a wooden console for Walt Culver’s van and it was a work of art.  He was very meticulous.  That must have been 28-30 years ago.  Jerry Bryant

Feel free to send me information for next meeting to

emmawahlstrom@aol.com

See you July 29th
Eileen Wahlstrom

E-SYSTEMS/RAYTHEON RETIREES LUNCH GROUP

By Eileen Wahlstrom

May 27, 2015

PRESENT: Small turn out today….36

FIRST TIME GUESTS: No newcomers

Guests: Leslie Serna attended with her father, John Talbert. Glad to see her. She’s becoming a regular now.

SICKNESS:

Al Holley is still the same…bad back issues

DEATHS

John Albert Gilbert

Born September 24, 19931 in Cleburne, Texas to Benjamin and Geneva Gilbert and passed away May 16, 2015 in Dallas, Texas.
http://www.restlandfuneralhome.com/obituaries/John-Gilbert-11/#!/Obituary

Feel free to send me information for next meeting to
emmawahlstrom@aol.com

See you June 24th
Eileen Wahlstrom

E-SYSTEMS/RAYTHEON RETIREES LUNCH GROUP

By Eileen Wahlstrom

April 29, 2015

PRESENT: 50

FIRST TIME GUESTS:None

Guests: Not really guests, but, the Husses visited from Florida!

SICKNESS:

Allan Holley is very ill. Bobby Gambrell gave us a report. Al has severe issues with vertebrae in his lower back giving him a lot of debilitating pain. Keep him in your prayers.

Jim Gray reported that Joe Sladecek had a mild stroke the day after Christmas but has recovered.

DEATHS

John Robert Young Jr.

1932 - 2015 | Obituary

John Robert Young Jr., March 25
Obituary

John Klimko

John Klimko, April 03
Obituary

Please remember all of these in your prayers.

Harry Boling has a FREE EPSON Ink Jet color All-In-One Workforce 630 printer. First come…first served. Call 972-276-5073 Printer details - Amazon

Brenda Bell told us about the INSYNC Exotics Wildlife Center in Wylie where she is a volunteer. Sounds like afascinating place to visit! They do great work to help exotic big cats! Check it out! www.insyncexotics.com

All printed contact lists (5) were handed out at the meeting so I will bring more to the May 27th meeting. If you need your information added or updated please email Marv Olson at molson46@gmail.com

Jim Gray brought group pictures from the January anniversary meeting. He has more so if you haven’t purchased yours yet you can email Jim at jimagray@flashnet.net or purchase at the next meeting if he still has some.

I was asked to help plan a special “Farewell to the Garland Site” visit for our retirees. I suggested the August lunch meeting as the date. To quote Karen Ebling: “Our retirees have their blood, sweat, and tears in the Garland site. It’s very appropriate that they get a chance to say goodbye.” Mark your calendars so you don’t miss it! More later!

Feel free to send me information for next meeting to
emmawahlstrom@aol.com

See you May 27th
Eileen Wahlstrom

E-SYSTEMS/RAYTHEON RETIREES LUNCH GROUP

March 25, 2015

PRESENT: 52 including 3 guests: Pam Cox (Joe’s wife), Robert Bazinett (Rose Marie’s husband), and Leslie Serna (John Talbert’s daughter)

FIRST TIME GUESTS: No first timers

SICKNESS: Bob and Betty White reported that their son Robert is back to work after he had a mild stroke three weeks ago.

• Don Metcalf – March 18
  http://www.restlandfuneralhome.com/obituaries/Donald-Metcalf/#!/Obituary
  
  
• Larry Teagarden – DOD Last week. I couldn’t locate his obituary
  
  
• Beth Magness – (Sam Wilson’s 31 yr. old daughter) Confirmed homicide at her home in Oklahoma. Found March 15th.
  http://www.restlandfuneralhome.com/obituaries/Elizabeth-Wilson-Magness/#!/Obituary
  
  
• Mary Manies called to say that our old friend, Luke Manies, passed away on February 25th. Mary's home phone is 817-430-9464.  If you wish to send a sympathy card the home address is:
  1531 Southfork Drive
  Keller, TX 76248
  http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/dallasmorningnews/obituary.aspx?pid=174327695
  
  
• Adley Eastridge – (Steve Eastridge’s son) February 23.
  http://www.resthavenfuneral.com/obituaries/Adley-Eastridge/
  
  
• Helen Patsy Samford, age 89, passed away March 20, 2015 in Wylie, Texas. She was born January 8, 1926 in Thackerville, Oklahoma to Frank and Hattie Garrison Cobb.
  Patsy worked for E-Systems for twenty-seven years. She was a member of the E-Systems Women's and Retirement clubs. http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/dallasmorningnews/obituary.aspx?n=patsy-samford&pid=174469517
  
  
• Sarah Jane Underwood - March 19. A Memorial Service will be held in memory of Sarah at 3:00 pm on Saturday, March 28, 2015 at The Abbey Chapel at Restland Funeral Home.
  http://www.restlandfuneralhome.com/obituaries/Sarah-Underwood-2/#!/Obituary