Captain Pete Labyak

11th Commanding Office USS Samuel Gompers

Many Gompers men and women will remember Captain Labyak as a true leader and  honorable CO. I never had the opportunity to serve under Captain Labyak but I got to know him somewhat through emails. I wish his family peace and also offer the Gompers families prayers and thanks for his service to his crew and the country. Rest in peace Captain, and Fair Winds and Following Seas.

Kevin McGarry

VIRGINIA BEACH - Retired Navy Captain Peter Labyak, 69, lost his battle with melanoma at his home Feb. 27, 2009. A 1962 graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy, he enjoyed a distinguished 30 -year naval career, in which nearly half was spent on sea duty aboard seven ships and included 10 major deployments in both the Atlantic and Pacific Fleets. He commanded the afloat Oceanographic Unit TWO, USS Mullinnix (DD 944), USS Samuel Gompers (AD 37) and the Atlantic Fleets ASW Training Center. Major shore assignments included Navy Recruiting District New York, Executive Office of the President and Chief of Staff for Training and Tactics for Commander-in-Chief U.S. Atlantic Fleet. Among his awards were the Legion of Merit (3), Meritorious Service (2) and various Vietnam campaign decorations. He was considered a sub-specialist in anti-submarine warfare, oceanography and marine engineering. He held an M.S. in Physical Oceanography and was certified to teach science at the secondary school level. Upon retirement from the Navy in 1992, he taught at Great Bridge Middle School North for five years. He then began a third career and became an exhibiting professional artist. By 2008 he had achieved a reputation as an accomplished miniature oil painter at both local and national level, competing successfully in numerous international competitions. While doing outdoor shows locally and in the Outer Banks, he became a featured artist at galleries in Portsmouth, Virginia Beach, Nags Head and Manteo. He was a member of the Association of Miniature Artists, Miniature Art Society of Florida, the Miniature Painters, Sculptors, and Gravers Society of Washington, D.C., and the Chesapeake Bay Art Association. Until his illness in late 2007, he was an avid golfer and member of Cypress Point Country Club, and also enjoyed gardening and cooking. Pete was a member of the Church of the Ascension Catholic Church and served as an Eucharistic Minister. Captain Labyak is survived by his loving wife of 45 years, Gail Caroline; three children, Theresa Geisler and husband U.S. Navy Capt. David A. Geisler of Virginia Beach, Laura Labyak of Virginia Beach, Daniel Labyak and wife Corrie Labyak of Jacksonville, Fla.; five grandchildren, Katherine Geisler, Kristina Geisler, Nicholas Labyak, Camdyn Labyak and Hogan Peter Labyak; his father, retired Navy Capt. Robert W. Labyak and wife Lou; and a sister, Roberta Moody-Wright and husband Paul Wright, all of Fort Worth, Texas. He was predeceased by his son, Timothy Jon Labyak; his mother, Dorothy Labyak; and two brothers, Jon and Fred Labyak. A Mass of Resurrection will be held at the Church of the Ascension Catholic Church, 4853 Princess Anne Road, Virginia Beach Monday at 11 a.m. with Father James E. Parke officiating. His ashes will be placed in the Columbarium at the church immediately following the Mass with full military honors being accorded.

ANACONDA -- Randy Joe Nicholes of Anaconda died Monday, October 29, 2001, at his home, surrounded by loving family and friends.

Joe was born Aug. 1, 1952, in Anaconda to Nick and Jean Nicholes. He attended local schools, graduating from Anaconda High in 1970. In June 1971, he joined the Navy, where he had a distinguished career, retiring with the rank of master chief petty officer in 1994. He served in Vietnam, the Persian Gulf, and several Pacific duty stations.

Joe loved serving his country and received numerous personal and unit commendations during his career. He continued to serve after his retirement through active membership in several service organizations including the American Legion, Veterans of Foreign Wars, Kiwanis and Chamber of Commerce.

Joe was active in his church, teaching Sunday school, singing in the choir, Bible study and any other activities upon which he was called.

He was preceded in death by his father, Nick, and special aunt and uncle, Myrt and Parley Wilkens.

Joe is survived by his loving wife, Linda, and devoted mother, Jean; daughters and sons-in-law, Jo Lynn and Brian Corr and Tricia and Jim Bieber; grandchildren, Austin, Trever and Hanna Corr; stepdaughters and husbands, Jayme and Scott Weinandt, Dawn and Ted Bolamperti, and Tracy and Rick Isenberg; grandchildren, Kasie, Chelsie, Megan and Riley Weinandt, and Karley and Reece Isenberg; brothers and wives, Mike and Judy, and Pat and Pam; nieces, Leanne, Jody, Jennie, Jessi, Libby and Rikki; nephew, Scott; and numerous great-nieces and nephews.

The funeral starts at 11 a.m. Thursday at the United Methodist Church with the Rev. Kent Elliot officiating. Burial: With military honors in New Hill Cemetery veterans' plot. Longfellow Finnegan Funeral Home is in charge.

Memorials: Pintler Hospice, United Methodist Church, or donor's choice.

You can read Dan Pages Obit by clicking on the photo above

Click Photo to enlarge

 ETC Neil R. Langenwalter, served on the USS Gompers from 1967-1968.

He passed away on February 18, 2007 from Cancer.

He truly loved the Navy. There are still large pictures of each of the ships he was a member of hanging in my Moms house.

There is additional BIO information on military.com

Peter C. Southard LT.

Robert Rutkowski  CWO3

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A group of family, close friends, and former shipmates said their final Bon Voyage to our Shipmate Bob Rutkowski this afternoon (20 July 2006)  in Poway, San Diego County, California.  May be rest in peace. 

Wade Roberts TM3

Wade Jay Roberts 1949 - 2005

Gompers Shipmate 1970-1972

Our beloved son, brother, father, grandfather and uncle, Wade Jay Roberts, passed away after a courageous battle with lung cancer on November 7, 2005, at home in Kearns, surrounded by his family. Born September 26, 1949 in Pocatello, Idaho, son of Frank and Willa "Billie" Ransom Roberts. He graduated from Kearns High School in 1967. Served in the US Navy. He was a generous and kind man who loved his kids, family and dogs. He enjoyed playing his guitar, antiques, and watching old shows. Survived by sons: Shawn (Melanie) Roberts and Jeff (Kellie) Roberts; daughter, Cindy (Ronald) Romero; eight grandchildren: Chaunce, Chelsea, Chabrey, Brady, Canon, Maleah, Laticia, Gabriel; sister, Karen (Kelly) Rigby; sister-in-law, Verna; Special friend Diane Collier. Preceded in death by his mother; daughter, Tuesday; granddaughter, Chaylea; brothers, Robin and Danny. The family would like to express a special thanks to Dr. Jill Moore.

Published in the Salt Lake Tribune on 11/9/2005.

Roy Clements

Don Gorman

Sadly, I pass the news of the death of Don Gorman, HMCS, USN (1967-68), 2751 Warmouth Lane, Kissimmee, FL, 34744.  Don was to our Reunion in Las Vegas in 2003.  I was not aware of an illness, although you who were there may remember that he was motoring around in a power wheelchair.  I had sent to him one of the many Red Neck Jokes that we used to exchange.  His son informed me of his death.  This is a link to Don's Obit [ Off-Site link to Orlando Sentinel archives ]
[ Submitted by Bob Reese ]

John McCulley

Nick Picconi

Nick Picconi QM1 passed away in the year 2004. If anyone has any other info on his passing or him, please let me know. I received the following information about Nick from a friend that has been in contact with a family member:

Renato Tabamo Viernes

Larry Bolger

 OS Larry Bolger passed away June 23, 2004. He was a wonderful person who could always put a smile on your face.

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Christopher Stark

Click Photo above to read Christopher's Obit

Al Corder

 

Dear shipmates,

  It's with deep regret, I inform you of the death of Al Corder at his home in King, North Carolina, on Thursday March 11th, 2004.  Al lost a two year battle with cancer , and passed away quietly at his home, surrounded by his loving family.

  Al served on Gompers from 1971 until his retirement in 1976. He (Al) was acting division officer for W-2 division, and retired as a Master Chief Gunners Mate.

  Any questions concerning Master Chief Corder's passing, you may contact me.

Sincerely;

Jim Sutton TMC, Ret.

T. J. Tolliver

   T. J. Tolliver HT2 1985-1990 Passed away on Monday 23 February 2004. I will pass any new information on as soon as I receive it. Our prayers go out to his family.

Gloria Jesus

  Two deaths prior to homecoming for Sammy G to Alameda CA. In Hong Kong , an adult male drowned in his hotel room and a young adult 19-year-old female aboard Sammy G died on June 29, 1990 , while underway in route to Hawaii.  Although I had planned a vacation back to Guam with the young woman earlier, instead I became her HR escort… a rather sad return to native soil - a US Navy official temporary duty assignment.

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Merton A. Pearson

Brunswick-Merton Arcadus Pearson of Topsham died on January 3, 2007, after a long session with cancer.

He was born in Buckfield, Maine, on the family farm on August 18, 1934. He was the second son, third child of Leslie W. and Clithroe W. Pearson. During most of his formative years the family resided in Portland, Maine. He graduated from Deering High School in June 1952. Merton attended and graduated from Bates College in 1956.

He subsequently enlisted in the U.S. Navy, attended Officer Candidate School and was commissioned in December 1956. He served for twenty-seven years in various ships, staffs, and stations, including Turkey, Japan, and Vietnam. He met and married Beverly Ann Danielson, also a Naval Officer, in Charleston, South Carolina in February 1963. He retired from active duty in August 1983.

His second career was as Registrar at Paul Smith’s College in Paul Smiths, NY. Merton again retired in February 2001. He and Beverly moved to Topsham, Maine.

Merton was predeceased by his parents and a younger brother, Tristram. He is survived by his wife, Beverly, and two daughters, Abby Jane and Lesley Anne Warren, of Fairfax, VA.

Joseph Andrew "Drew" Vogt died 7/25/2007. He was a junior officer in the engineering department in the mid-70's, then went to dental school, rejoined the Navy, and retired as a CAPT (DC) in 1998. 

Charles (Chuck) Powless was a legendary Bosn' mate. He was born 13 July 1956 and passed away from cancer on 27 July 2003. His exploits are well known by those of us that served at the same time he did.  Rest in peace Boats. Click photo to enlarge.

Linda David passed away 6/27/08  Click on obit below to enlarge.

Click above Obit to read

Christopher Stewart Willson

LCdr Christopher Stewart Willson died 14 November 1990 in San Diego, California. Memorial services were held at Balboa Naval Hospital Chapel in San Diego on 21 November, attended by his family and friends.
LCdr Willson was born on 25 May 1956 at the Philadelphia Naval Hospital. He received his appointment to the Naval Academy from Florida. While at the Naval Academy, Chris was Plebe Summer Regimental Commander and served as the Brigade Adjutant his First Class year. He was active in many Academy organizations including the Brigade Activities Committee. Upon graduation with the Class of 1978, he was commissioned an ensign and selected for duty in the nuclear power program.
His first shipboard assignment was aboard the USS ENTERPRISE where he served as a division officer in the Engineering Department. Following this tour he served as CIC Officer aboard USS LEAHY. He was selected for Department Head School while serving aboard USS GOMPERS as Radiological Control Officer. After attending Department Head School, he was assigned to USS FIFE as Operations Officer. His devoted and meritorious service garnered him many praises and awards including the Navy Commendation Medal and Battle “E.”
A Life Member of the Naval Academy Alumni Association, Chris was a staunch supporter of the Academy and often reminisced of his days at the Yard. He will be sorely missed by his family, Shipmates and friends who remember him for his quick wit and kind smile. Chris is survived by his parents, Capt. And Mrs. L.E. Willson of Friday Harbor, Washington.

Borrowed from the US Naval Academy Website

Baker, Thomas  D.

Memorial Service Program for MM1 Baker

Loveland Reporter Herald
Tuesday June 6, 2000 page b-3

Dice Thomas J. "Tom" Dice, 56, of Loveland, died June 2, 2000, at the Colorado State Veterans' Nursing Home in Rifle.
He was born Nov. 17, 1943, in Mishawaka, Ind., to James Vernon Dice and Billy Louise Gore Dice. In 1948, his family moved to Grand Junction, where he grew up.
He graduated from Grand Junction High School in 1961, attended Mesa Junior College for one year, then spent seven years in the U.S. Navy, specializing in nuclear energy.
Mr. Dice served during the Vietnam War, first in Idaho, and then aboard the USS Enterprise out of Oakland and the USS Gompers out of San Diego.
He married Charlotte L. Wise on Sept. 26, 1970, in Arvada. After their marriage, they lived in Greeley until 1975, when they moved to Loveland.
Mr. Dice worked for Public Service Co. at the Fort St. Vrain Nuclear Generating Station from 1970 until 1994, when ill health forced him to take disability.
He enjoyed hunting, fishing, camping-especially on Grand Mesa-and playing cards and trivia games. He was an avid Denver sports fan and enjoyed spending special times and holidays with his family. He was a member of the Loveland Associated Vets Club.
Mr. Dice is survived by his wife, Charlotte Dice of Loveland; a son, J. Dice of Loveland; daughter Amber Dice and fiance Chris Moore of Loveland; daughters from a previous marriage Kristine Haremza and Karla Maslyk, both of Grand Junction; his mother, Billy Louthan of Grand Junction; a brother, John Dice and wife Tracy of Grand Junction; a sister, Lori Christiansen of Craig; his father-in-law and mother-in-law, John and Helen Wise of Denver; brother-in-law, Perry Wise of Pueblo; one grandson; and seven nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his father, James Dice.

  MR. JOEL P. CAJUDO, 50, of Rotterdam, The Netherlands died Friday, October 15, 2004 in The Netherlands. He was the husband of Raquel Cajudo. He was preceded in death by his father Benjamin Cajudo and mother Rosalina Presto Cajudo from Olongapo City, Philippines. Mr. Cajudo retired from 24 years of active duty with the United States Navy in 1998. He served as a Medical Logistics Planner for the Naval Medical Logistics Command at Fort Detrick prior to his civilian employment as Transportation Planner with the United States Army in Rotterdam, The Netherlands. In addition to his wife he is survived by his daughter, Tarja and son Jed, sisters Luzviminda Orillaza, Ofelia Montevirgen and brothers, Nathaniel and Eddie Cajudo and many relatives from California, Florida, Rhode Island and Philippines. The family will receive friends at the STAUFFER FUNERAL HOME, 1621 Opossumtown Pike, Frederick, MD on Monday, November 8, 2004 from 7 to 9 p.m. Services will be held on Tuesday, November 9, at 10 a.m.from the Manor Woods Church of Christ, 5300 Norbeck Rd., Rockville, MD with Pastor Dyke McCord officiating. Military burial will follow at the Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, VA at 3 p.m.
This ad appeared in The Washington Post on 11/3/2004.

ROCHESTER — Gerald E. Dugas, 63, of Rochester, passed away peacefully, at home, surrounded by his family, on Thursday, May 14, 2009. He was the loving husband of Janet J. (Yates) Dugas, married 40 years; and son of the late Romeo A. and Florence (Descheneaux) Dugas.

He was born in Acushnet and lived the past 37 years in Rochester. He graduated from New Bedford Vocational High School and he served in the US Navy during the Viet Nam crisis aboard the USS Gompers.

He was the former owner of Fish Island Marine Engineering in Fairhaven and was most recently employed with Marine Hydraulics in New Bedford until his illness. He was also a certified welder and taught at Bristol Plymouth Regional Vocational High School in Taunton.

He was the President of Leo's Club for Boys and a Cub Master for the Rochester Cub Scouts. Gerald was a member of the Rochester Lions Club and the Fairhaven Coast Guard Auxiliary.

In his leisure time he enjoyed boating, skiing, traveling and building model boats. He was happiest when he was with his buddy and pet dog "Casper" and loved being with his family and grandchildren.

Survivors include his wife; his son, Shawn G. Dugas and his wife, Anabela of Rochester; two grandchildren, MacKenzie and Madeline Dugas; his brothers, Roger P. Dugas and his wife, Jacqueline and William R. Dugas and his wife, Linda, both of New Bedford; many nieces, nephews and grand nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made in his memory to American Cancer Society, PO Box 1004, Meriden, CT 06450.

Visitation will be Monday morning only from 8:15 AM to 10:15 AM at Rock Funeral Home, followed by his Funeral Mass at St. Rose of Lima Church, Rochester at 11 AM. Interment Center Cemetery, Rochester.

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Visitation will be held from 2:00 ~ 6:00 P.M. Friday, May 8, 2009 at Whispering Pines Funeral Home Chapel, 185 N.E. 4^th Street, Prineville, Ore. A funeral service will be held10:00 A.M. Saturday, May 9, 2009 at The First Baptist Church, 450 S.E. Fairview Prineville, Ore. Pastor Charles Hughbanks will officiate, final interment will follow at Juniper Haven Cemetery, 1555 N. Main St. Prineville, Ore. A dinner will follow the graveside service at The First Baptist Church in Prineville.

Carl was born December 26, 1948 in Phoenix, AZ. to Carl D. and Barbara (Wilson) Cooley. He graduated from Crook County High School in 1967. He worked on ranches and did some millwork until 1971 at which time he entered the U.S. Navy and spent two years in the Philippines and while there he distributed many Bibles. He served on the U.S.S. Samuel Gompers Destroyer Tender for 1 year. His sea and land duty was served during the Viet Nam era. He was discharged from the Navy in 1974. Carl had a strong Christian belief witnessing to all who would listen.

His lifelong interest included electronics, hunting, fishing, camping, fly tying, model trains and listening to 60’s music.

He was a member of the VFW Post #1412, Prineville, Ore. and past member of The First Baptist Church, Prineville, Ore.

Carl is survived by his mother Barbara Cooley of Prineville, Ore; sister Kathy Vaughan of Bend, Ore; brother John (Jane) Cooley of Redmond, Ore; brother Timothy (Faye) Cooley of Prineville, Ore; brother David (Teresa) Cooley of Kaiser, Ore; numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

Carl is preceded in death by his father, Carl D. Cooley.

Michael Thomas Ferrier

June 15, 1958 - July 8, 2009

Michael Thomas Ferrier, 51, passed away on July 8, 2009. He was born in Bremerton, Washington on June 15, 1958 to William and Faye Ferrier. The family settled in Stockton in the 70's, where Michael finished high School and joined the Navy making two Westpac's and ending his service in 1980 on the U.S.S. Samuel Gompers. While stationed in San Diego he developed his undying love of the San Diego Chargers. Upon returning to Stockton, Michael worked as a concrete finisher and bartender making many friends along the way at The Shamrock; Lyons, on Pacific Ave, and Stockton Joe's.

Mike enjoyed traveling, photography, golf, and collecting Hot Wheels for his nephew Gage Ryan. He was compassionate and in 2005 he donated a kidney to a dear friend. Please remember Michael for his many good qualities and sense of humor.

Mike is preceded in death by his parents and his beloved yellow lab of 11 years, Honey Sugar Biscuit. He is survived by his brothers, Steven and Paul Ferrier of Bremerton, Washington; his sister, Michele Gray; niece, Nicole Gray, and nephew, Gage Ferrier of Stockton, California.

Friends and loved ones are invited to attend a Memorial Service at DeYoung Memorial Chapel, 601 N. California Street, Stockton, on Friday, July 31, 2009, at 3:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations given in Michael Ferrier's name to the Humane Society of Calaveras County, Victims of Violent Crime of San Joaquin County, or to Mary Pons at 209-772-8882 for the care and feeding of orphaned cats. Online tributes at deyoungchapels.com

BORGES, William F. - Age 53, a resident of Tyrone Twp., died at home, Thursday, December 23, 2004. Bill was born in Flint on November 10, 1951, the son of Michael and Betty (Marshall) Borges. He lived in the Otisville area for many years and graduated from Lakeville High School. He had been a resident of the Fenton area since 1984. On July 29, 1978 he and Lois Yost were married in San Diego, California. Bill served 8 years with the U.S. Navy, served duty in Viet Nam and aboard the ship the USS Samuel Gompers. He had been employed by SBC Communications in construction for the past 26 years.. Bill enjoyed cars of any kind, antique, classic, and collected antique and vintage advertising signs. He also loved music, playing the guitar and working around his home and yard. Surviving are his loving wife and sons, Lois Borges, Justin Borges with the U.S. Navy in Lemoore, California and Bill Borges at home. Also surviving are his parents, Michael and Betty Borges; 2 sisters, Laura and husband John Bartosz of Manistee, Linda and husband Jim Humphrey of Clarkston; a sister-in-law, Linda and husband Joe Steh in Ohio; a brother-in-law, David Yost in Pennsylvania; father-in-law, Melvin Yost of Pennsylvania; a mother-in-law, Lois Holt of Ohio. There are 2 nephews, Paul and Mark in Manistee and a niece, Melissa in Ohio. Bill was preceded in death by a brother, Michael James Borges October 19, 2001. 

SUFFOLK- William Kevin O’Brien, 49, passed away December 9, 2008 at Portsmouth Naval Hospital after a long courageous battle with melanoma cancer. He was born in Queens, New York, and raised on Long Island. He was a retired Chief in the U.S. Navy after 23 years, serving in Desert Storm and Desert Shield. He later worked for the Military Sealift Command in Virginia Beach. He was a member of VFW Post #9382.

Joseph "JG" Duhon, 75, of Westlake died peacefully at 2:50 PM on Thursday, August 17, 2006 in his residence surrounded by loved ones.

Mr. Duhon was born on October 9, 1930 in Hackberry, LA and was a resident of Westlake for the past 30 years. He served with distinguished honors in the U.S. Navy from December 1952 to July of 1976 achieving the rank of Senior Chief. Mr. Duhon bravely fought in the Korean Conflict and also in Vietnam. His service time was divided among 9 naval vessels and two shore stations. Mr. Duhon was a recipient of the Silver Star.

After retiring from the military he was employed with Teledyne Movable Offshore as a crain operator from 1976-1986. He was also an employee of Citadel Security before taking final retirement.

Mr. Duhon was a 32nd degree Mason. He was a member of Westlake Masonic Lodge #445 and an honorary member of Moss Bluff Masonic Lodge #402.

He was a member of St. Andrew's Episcopal Church in Moss Bluff.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Gilbert and Rena Duhon and his younger brother, Adam Duhon.

He is survived by his wife, Sarah Duhon; his two daughters, Vickie Cape and Margaret Vitello; one son, Michael Duhon; his sister, Marie Whiting; and a sister-in-law, Betty Duhon. He also leaves behind six grandchildren; one great grandchild; and many nieces, nephews, neighbors, and friends.

Allen Dale Clements, 58. Born May 10, 1946 at Lancaster, Calif. to Marvin Lee and Helen Jewell McMichael Clements, he died Dec. 16, 2004 at a local hospital. He married Connie Kay Inselman April 22, 1971 at Ardmore. He had lived here since 1988, coming from San Diego, Calif. He retired from the U.S. Navy after 26 years of service. Clements was a member of Disabled American Veterans and Paralyzed Veterans of American

GREENVILLE — Jack L. Gifford, 79, of East Durham, NY passed away suddenly at Columbia Memorial Hospital in Hudson, NY on Aug. 11, 2009. He was born in Durham, NY on July 26, 1930, son of the late Charles “Jack” and Anna (Weidinger) Gifford. Jack was a career Navy man, being discharged in 1968 as a Chief Petty Officer. He served on many different ships including the USS Saratoga, the USS Oriskany, the USS Quill Back submarine and his last ship the USS Samuel Gompers. He had received the Good Conduct Medal (5), National Defense Service Medal (2) and Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal (1). He was a member and Past Commander of the Durham Valley Post #1416 American Legion, a member and past commander of the Greene County American Legion, a member of the Fleet Reserve Association and a former member of the Oak Hill Durham Vol. Fire Co. Loving a good time, he was an avid Yankee fan, loved his gardening and played all types of card games, especially poker.